Indiana Eponine

Another Year Brings More Changes

2010-09-13T07:52:00.003-05:00

It's been so long. And so much as happened. I've finally found a job. It's not my dream job, but in this economy, I'll take anything that I can actually use my brain for. I'm working for Cisco in the service contract center. I had to learn a whole new language, but it was exactly what I was looking for. Since graduation in December, I have been in a mindless job and a bit of a funk. So now I feel shiny new. And I have a new zest for my real passion, writing. I hope the writer's block is gone. And to help the juices flow I have decided to change my school related blog Omro Cosmopolitan into a writing based blog that I will update through out the week during my new found "writing time." So check it out. I will be posting fiction and essays. But I'll still post here about my creative endeavors which will soon include spinning.

A Schedule

2010-03-19T10:57:00.002-05:00

So I've been graduated (if that's even a word) for three months now. And I live in Unemployment Valley (otherwise know as a the Fox Valley). So I need a strategy. When I switched my major and minor around my goal was to be writer. So I gotta write. Hence I am formulating a writing schedule. I don't lack ideas and I have a lot of desire. But I get stuck with What-should-I-do-first. So to that end I present to you my schedule:

Monday: WIPS and weekend wrap up
Wednesday: Munchkin Tales
Friday: Reviews, mostly books but recipes and yarns as well

Tuesdays and Thursdays will be allotted for Freelance work and Submissions. I am hopeful that this schedule will give me the direction that I am looking for and help me to juggle the various ideas and material that plays hopscotch in mind. So stay tuned. Later tonight I'll post my first review... here's a hint... It's a book.

Craft as Therapy

2010-03-03T08:53:00.005-06:00

I know there are many people out there that are offended at the idea of knitting as the new yoga. And while it has been known to calm me down, I've never gotten the post-workout buzz from knitting. However, in the winter dulldrums, so prevalant in Wisconsin, there's nothing wrong with a little color therapy. Traditional at this time of year I reach the grassiest green sock yarn I can find, and knit away on a lacy new sock. The green soothes my need for grass and puts me in the mood for St. Patrick's Day. But this year I'm doing something different. I'm going to sew my winter blues away.

The best part of having a little girl, a very girly little girl, is that you have an excuse to use the most profanely, tooth achingly sweet fabric out there. And I haven't even cut out the Easter dress yet! I had the day off, because she had a day off from school yesterday. So we went to the library, and had lunch out (Pumpkin scones and all). Then I started digging in my sewing room.

This will be a play apron. It's the leftovers from a dress I made earlier in the season. She wore the dress out to dinner with Nana,who said: Wow, you're Mommy made this pretty dress? You are so lucky. Needless to say that me feel pretty good.

This will be a pillowcase dress for Summer Camp.

This is actually flannel, for a play shirt to take her into Spring.

And this is what's coming next. Along with Easter dresses..... With this much color and patter who could be glum, right? And I want to give a quick shout out for the book I'm using Carefree Clothes for Girls by Junko Okawa. I obviously choosing a different color pallet than she intended, but I'm really inspired by this book. I really enjoyed tracing the pattern pieces and adding seam allowances. It made me feel more a part of the process. I feel like I have more creative control. I'm even going so far as to take sleeves from one dress and adding them to different top. We'll see how it turns out. Stay tuned!

Dinner Time Deception

2010-03-02T10:04:00.003-06:00

When the Munchkin was brand new, I watched every step of development with wonder and awe. I firmly believed that I would never lie to her. I planned to explain every decision, vowing to never use the hated phrase: Because I said so. And in the beginning it was easy to hold these ideals. She simply didn’t argue with me. She ate what I gave her and watched me with wide attentive eyes.

And then we fell down the other side of the mountain. Her willful side kicked into high gear and life got exponentially more difficult. My little Munchkin does everything in her own time. She refuses to be swayed by even largest show of force. So where did that leave me? I found my way into the world of subterfuge.

My mother sent me a copy of Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. This book has been around for a while now, but just in case you haven’t come across it, I explain. The idea is that you make fruit and vegetable purees, and store them in the freezer. Then you add them into your kids’ favorite recipes to sneak in extra vitamins and nutrients. My first experiment was with banana bread, the recipes called for cauliflower puree. The Hubbie said “Mmmmm this good. New recipe?” I laughed so hard I nearly fell over. Well I never said I was a good spy. The jig was up with him. He became my co-conspirator.

Over the last two years I’ve added squash puree into Mac and Cheese, carrot puree into meatloaf, summer squash into “plain” buttered noodles. However my daughter’s favorite dish is something she calls pink pancakes. Can you guess what makes them pink? It’s beets, a vegetable she won’t touch in its original form. This particular recipe also uses ricotta cheese so she’s unknowingly getting protein and vegetables. It’s a real powerhouse. And when I pull the beet puree out of the fridge she calls it the “bag of pink.”

As I progress through motherhood I find issues that shouldn’t be avoided or ignored as well as little moments, like these, where nutrition is more important. I’ve even gotten her to eat baked eggs with cauliflower puree because I called them puffs and she got her own little cup. In this case it’s not so much deception as artful presentation.

They can't contain me!

2010-02-28T12:22:00.003-06:00

That's sounds better than I'm a pathetic week yarn hussy, right? Needless to say, I'm not getting gold in this year's Olympics. My plan: to knit The Trellis scarf. This was a big goal for me because I have never finished a lace weight project. I've started many and I always get lost in the pattern and tink back more than I finish. So I figured a scarf is smaller than a shawl and the pattern just keeps repeating over and over. These were good thoughts, and had life not erupted in the middle I might have been okay. But as it stands I had to tink back three times and got so angry with the cobwebby cashmere that I put it aside and sought solace in sock knitting. The soothing repetition and familiar structure was soothing that I started two new pairs. One for the hubby and one for the munchkin. This is why I am a dirty dirty yarn slut. I can't seem to stay monogamous for anything. But I think I'm in good company. I've heard a few podcasters and bloggers say that knitting is a creative release for them and that Olympic goals don't support that process. Well that's my story and I'm sticking to it. And it's true really. We had a very emotional week at work, ending with a funeral, and my sock knitting was the best way for me to deal with it.

But the future looks bright for this knitter. My house is sparkling clean (Thanks for the help Hubby) and my meals are planned for the week. There are steak and potatoes in the crock pot and the snow is fluttering out my window like a snow globe, but not sticking to the pavement. The restful quality of Sunday has fallen upon my house and I plan to soak it all up and look forward. And I'll try to remember to not sign up for crazy challenges anymore. I have enough stress in my real life. I just don't need it in my knitting life.

I did it!

2009-12-20T14:28:00.004-06:00

That's right ladies and gentlemen, I am a college graduate.

And this is my little cutie, wearing the hat. when the speeches wore down and the grads started walking across the stage the Munchkin caught on that people in the stands were cheering for their friends/family. So she says to her God Mother: We can be louder than those guys. Yup! That's my kid. I clapped and screamed for her, when the Chancelor asked spouses and immediate family members to stand and be honored for the sacrificing they did to make the day possible.

It was a very emotional day that ended with cocktails and a nap on the couch. Honestly as soon as the adrenalaine wore off, the week of no sleep and too much stress caught up to me.

And here's the shameless shot of my big graduation present, my very own Manolo Blahniks. It's the pair that Carrie gets married in in the Sex and the City Movie. Quite appropriate don't you think? I did even trip when I walked across the stage.

I also got a nice surprise this morning, the new Knitty is up. So I'll be on Ravelry later updating the queue that just keeps getting bigger. I'm sorry for my lack up updating (Courtney) but I will be around much more now that I don't have classes anymore. That was hte Munchkin's response when I explained graduating.... No more Night classes! Yeah, I hate night classes Mommy! She's such a smart kid!

My Problem with the Plunge

2009-09-21T10:19:00.003-05:00

Don't get me wrong. It's not the Plunge's fault. I am a fickle woman. The grass is always greener near someone else's project. You see when I signed up for the 52 Pair Plunge, I didn't want to knit anything but socks. And now that I'm, what, three months in I can't seem to finish a pair. It's not even a case of second sock syndrome. I can't seem to finish the first one. So far I have a number of socks on the needles, all unfinished:
*Leyburns
*Broadripple
*Leefilng
*Hedera
*Monkeys
*Coupling
*Coiriolis
*Esther
*Moss stitch for Zoe
*Embossed Leaves

So what have I been doing instead? Sweater, and scarves.

Zoe's Haiku

This one's called 198 yards of Heaven. I found it on Ravelry and I'm finally using the Ming I bout in San Fransisco three years ago. It really is Heaven to work with. I can't wait to drape it around my neck. It's getting cold enough around here to do that. Maybe that's my problem I'm working seasonally.... But that would make socks a smart choice.... So here's my new goal. I will do my best to finish two pairs of socks before I work on the munchkins next cardigan. Oh yeah did I mention I cast on for another one. And I've been working on my Minimalist Cardigan too. I love sweaters but I've never been so excited to knit them. Maybe my hormones are just out whack. It's as logical as any other excuse.

For the Indiana Girls here are some pictures from the first day of school:

Another Year Brings More Changes

2009-09-17T22:07:00.002-05:00

That's my birthday girl. She's four now, and a self proclaimed big girl. She's attending 4K and loving it! In fact she becomes very maudlin on the weekends because there is no school. I know this will change so I'm trying to enjoy while I can. She is desperate to write everyone's name and read by herself. She started to sound out words on her own the other day. It really freaks me out that she's growing up so fast. But everybody goes through that right?

This school year is also very exciting because I will be graduating in December. After 16 years of "on and off again" schooling I will finally be graduating. I almost don't believe it yet. Life without homework and papers, I just can't imagine. Well I can actually because this summer was blissful. I felt like I didn't get anything done, but I also avoided migraines, so I'll take it. But I just had to share my little princess. That is her goal in the life, by the way. She wants to be a princess when she grows up. What a girl!

This weekend I'll post about my 52 Pair plunge drama, so stick around!

Happy June!

2009-06-01T09:04:00.002-05:00

If you haven't looked yet, hop on over to Twist Collective for the new summer issue. I will be making the vest for DH and I especially love Franklin Habit's spread.

June is also the beginning of The new 52 Pair Plunge and I'm just crazy enough to sign up. That's right, in a vain attempt to knit more socks for my daughter and DH I'm taking the plunge. I don't know if I'll actually make 52 but I bet I'll knit more than I would have on my own. Zoe really needs some knee socks for playing in the snow. My first fresh Plunge project is The Crystalline Lattice Sock made in Panda Wool colorway red cinnamon. Pictures will follow, but it's too little to take a shot now.

I've also made a couple Neckwarmers for Christmas presents. It's a fun cable, and knits up fast. I'm using random stash yarn and buttons form my big glass button yarns. Zoe loved playing with them. She didn't believe me when I said "We're going to dump them all out."

In un-knitting news, my new vegetable patch is coming along. And for you Indiana readers, it's bigger than the raised beds from Muncie. :)

I will find the camera cord tonight tonight and get pictures loaded after work. Included will be pictures from The Dragonfly in Amber Swap. I've been so bad about getting my pictures up. And it's shame because I got an awesome sporran!

Finals time treat

2009-05-05T22:21:00.003-05:00

So I was doing some research on Robert Browning and came across this. Don't ask how it's a convoluted train. But this is so funny I had to share. So unitl my finals are over and my four papers are turned in.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwbB6B0cQs4

March in Wisconsin

2009-03-10T09:09:00.002-05:00

Please allow me a moment to whine. I forgot what March in Wisconsin was like. I know that March is messy everywhere, but Wisconsin takes that mess to a level of artistry. Sunday we had a blizzard, which I had to drive through for work. It was the kind of snow that stick to the outer walls of houses, due to the wind. It started as icy rain, so under the foot of snow blanketing my car I had a nice layer of ice to chip off. I continued to snow until the wee hours, so the morning commute was ugly. Worse though was the fact that it warmed up over night so the un-plowed roads were compounded by a dense bright fog. As the fog burned off the sun started it's dangerous work of melting. So the streets became a bog of slush and undigested snow chunks. By the time I got home last night and got into the tub, it was raining. That's right, because we just didn't have enough precipitation. They're calling for thunderstorms through out the day, 70% chance. And then we'll be in the 20's for a high tomorrow.

Now it's important to note that I love Wisconsin. I wanted to move back. The summer is much more comfortable and the fall is beautiful. I love to drive the back roads on fall evenings and watch the threshers working with their lights on. But March is the labor pain that we all have to forget in order to propagate the species. If anyone of thought about March as a deciding factor towards where we live, I think we'd all move. So there is my little rant. I really shouldn't complain because we're off to New York in a few days, and barring freezing rain, I'll be happy with whatever weather comes my way.

The Big Read

2009-03-07T08:50:00.003-06:00

I found this on And She Knits Too and I think it's a cool idea. As Stephanie says, it's just one list, but as an English major I feel a responsibility to promote reading in all it's forms. I've got 35, how about you?

The Big Read (http://www.neabigread.org/) said that, on average, adults have only read six books on this list. So ... copy this list, remove my yeses and nos, and add your comments (favourable or otherwise) about the ones you have read. Don't forget to include a total.

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen - One of my favorites!
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien – No, but I've been meaning to give it another try, now that I'm older.
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte - Yes
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling – YES
5. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee - YES
6 The Bible – Yes, much more interesting if read as literature, rather than "The Word."
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte - No but it's been on my list for a awhile now.
8 1984 - George Orwell - YES
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman - No
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens - No, I have a Dickens block, maybe I'll work on that this summer.
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott - YES
12 Tess of the D'Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy – I started but never finished it.
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller – No
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare – I've read most of it, but not in it's entirity.
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier - No
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien - No
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulks - No
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger - YES
19 The Time Traveller's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger - Yes
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot- No
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell - YES
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald - On my list, intended to read it this last summer.
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens-No
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy - Started once, but didn't get very far.
25 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams - No, but it's on my list.
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh - No
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky - Not yet
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll - Reading that this semester, actually
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame - Of course
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy - No
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens - No
33 The Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis - Tried it in middle school, but it didn't grab me. I would like to try it again though.
34 Emma - Jane Austen - YES
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen - YES
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - No
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini - No
38 Captain Corelli's Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres- No
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden - Yes
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne – Yes
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell -YES
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown - Yes
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez - On my list
44 A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving - No
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins - No
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery - Of course, most of the series, in fact.
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy - No
48 The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood - YES, I love Atwood!
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding - YES
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan - YES
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel - No
52 Dune - Frank Herbert- No
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons - Started but never finished it.
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen - YES
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth - No
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon - No
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens - No
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley - YES, my break through into Sci-Fi. Loved It!
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon - No
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez - No
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck – No
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov - Yes, I actually really liked this one.
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt - Yes, loved it!
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold – Yes
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas - No
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac - No, but I do need to give it a chance.
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy - No
68 Bridget Jones's Diary - Helen Fielding - YES
69 Midnight's Children - Salman Rushdie -No
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville - No
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens - No
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker - YES
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett - Yes
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson - No
75 Ulysses - James Joyce - No
76 The Bell Jar - Sylvia Plath - Yes
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome - No
78 Germinal - Emile Zola - No
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray - Yes
80 Possession - AS Byatt- No
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens - Of course.
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell - No
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker -No
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro - Yes
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert - No
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry - No
87 Charlotte's Web - EB White - YES
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom - No, and I may never read this one.
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle - No
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton – No
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad - YES
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupe – No
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks - No
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams -Started but never finished
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole - No
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute - No
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas - No
98 Hamlet – Shakespeare – YES
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl - No
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo -Started but never finished it, maybe another summer project.

The Barking Seal

2009-02-28T20:42:00.004-06:00

Life has been a little too unreal around these lately. DH has been traveling a lot. And the munchkin celebrated the break in her four day fever streak, by bashing her head into her head board. No kidding she had skull x-rays to make sure she didn't break her orbital socket. See:

But eventually my planned pampering break time was drawing near. I was scheduled to get a cut and color at my favorite Aveda salon, complete with yummy hot tea. But then the barking started. Wednesday morning I took a breathing treatment before leaving for class, and had to call in to work just before my class started, because I could not breathe. I rested and went to my night class, where it seemed that the tight knot in my lungs was finally loosening. I went to class on Thursday feeling a little chipper. But within two hours at work, my co-workers were throwing me out. Thanks Linda, by the way! So I barked my way home and took an other treatment. Well that sent me into such a fit that my legs were curling into my chest all on their own as I coughed, no really it was barking. Luckily DH was home and he drove to the doctor in the snow and ice, where I barked for a couple hours more. So the verdict, you ask? No haircut, no school, no work, no moving really. I have been banished to my bed with a harem of disgusting medicine. DH won't even let me cook, or make my own tea. And I'm still barking as I type this. But I have gotten a lot done while in bed.... see.....

Maybe tonight I should actually do some home work, but at this rate I may not even be in school this week. So maybe I'll go back to the knitting it's much more soothing.

Brighten Up

2009-01-24T17:31:00.002-06:00

We've been dealing with the plague here at Casa del Filak. So what better way to cheer up than with flowers. At least that's how i feel about it.

A

The munchkin and I did a truck load of baking as well. The Amish friendship bread starter was ready so we made a lot of muffins, in mini form. They are in the freezer waitign for school lunches.

That's right, she's off to pre-school in February, and very excited about it. We're also planning a Valentine's Party. She lost her little mind at the Factory Card Outlet, yesterday. I had to limit the amount of party favors and fancy plates. I did promise that we would go back, since I haven't ordered balloons yet. But maybe I can do that on my own. She has no control in that store.

Those Icicles Have Been Known to Kill People

2009-01-15T22:34:00.000-06:00

I have the unfortunate fate of being a person who unabashedly loves winter. Whenever it snows, I get blamed for it. And when the wind-chill is dangerously low that they close schools I’m asked if it’s cold enough for me. And to put the record straight no one is happy when it’s that cold. So why is winter my favorite season? I can best explain it on my drive home from work. The sun is down but it’s not completely dark yet. The snow is glowing blue and the whole world is silent. Not just quiet, the type of silence that comes from insulation. The snow does it. It muffles the sounds and world is silent.
When I was little the first snows were always linked with the holidays. It was enchanted snow that twinkled in the Christmas lights. Anticipation is a hard force to argue with. But as I get older it’s the second half of winter that appeals to me, the quiet of January after the frantic holiday schedule. I flip through the seed catalogues while snuggling into my armchair. I plan the New Year’s garden with a hot mug of tea and a cozy afghan. In January I bake and cook like a woman possessed. And it’s not the fancy holiday stuff; it’s good wholesome basics. Breads and pot roasts and chili stock my kitchen. January is a time for healing and finding yourself again after the crazy end of the previous year.
Some of my fondest childhood memories involve quiet snowy mornings and bundling up in thick sweaters. I can still smell the furniture polish on my old desk where I did homework and listened to unending love song sessions wishing for my own Romeo in Black jeans. That Valentine’s Day it was Rocco I was dreaming of, the high school boy who refereed our junior high basketball games. Every cozy memory I have is a winter memory and really aren’t those the best kind? So why wouldn’t I love driving home on a cold snowy night with the smell of wood fires seeping into my car. I lean back in my seat and smile at the warm glow coming from the farmhouses and get ready for the big hug waiting for me at home. What can top that?

I just couldn't resist....

2009-01-14T20:15:00.001-06:00

Which Twilight Character Are You?

Created by BuddyTV

A new essay should be up tomorrow.

Resolutions

2008-12-31T09:52:00.003-06:00

Ah, it's that time again. Time to reflect on the past year and plan for the next. Honestly this year has been such a mess that anything I plan for the new year has got to better. With that in mind I've been giving my personal goals a good look-see and I've decided that along with the move, the hospitalizations and the poor adjustments I'm not in bad shape after all. I've really gotten into a workout program and I'm losing actual weight (down a pants size). I got a 3.85 GPA despite the daycare drama. And I do like the new house. So it's not all bad. Which leave me with the question of what next? The new seed catalogs are rolling in and the new calender is begging for me to write all over it. So what's the plan? First the boring stuff: keep up the exercise and weight loss in hopes of lowering cholesterol; decide on window treatments for the kitchen/great room; finally get a headboard for our bedroom. And then the fun stuff, my biggest goal this year is to get work ready. I am so very tired of school, and it's finally drawing to a close. So it's time to look towards a job. This is tricky because I want to be a writer. But I don't write enough in my daily life. I write many papers a semester but that's not the same. My first initiative is to finish the research study that I started this fall. I won't be doing it for class credit now, just for the thrill of digging through science journals. I'm hoping to make some contacts and find a few interesting story ideas along the way. As much as I love fiction and memoir, I need to focus on the science writing if I want to eat. As a fun project I will be rededicating myself to the blog. And not just quick posts about knitting or lack there of. I'm planning longer essays as a way to flex that creative muscle. So these are my resolutions, simply put to keep it up and write more. What are your resolutions or lack there of? Personally I think keeping it simple is the best resolution of all.

how about that

2008-12-12T18:41:00.001-06:00

A New Me!

2008-12-05T21:34:00.002-06:00

Well sort of. I've had the cut for a few months now, but the color is new, and didn't show up so well. Should have taken a shot in the sun before we went shopping. It's a deep violet, red, with intense red burst here and there. Since it's so curly it makes a nice red glow all around. Yippee! I was feeling very middle age boring, so it was this or body art. Seriously I almost got pierced but so far this is holding me over, maybe a new lipstick too. And the fact that I've lost ten pounds this fall doesn't hurt either. I just might be sexy by Christmas. :)

Well back to my sourdough bread (that's rising very slowly) and final papers. After this coming week I'll have time to knit! And it's a good thing too, with Christmas coming and all.

Gobble, gobble....

2008-11-26T20:49:00.002-06:00

Happy Turkey Day wishes go out to my Indiana peeps! While I am happy to be having my brother over tomorrow, I am missing you guys something awful! Last Thanksgiving was exhausting but so much fun! I'm putting in for Martin Luther King Day so we can plan our knitting retreat that weekend. Complete with midget and new crock pot recipes. There won't be a fire, but I'm working on a nice candle display to fake the warm glow. Hope you're all finding a little peace and happiness this week, even if it's not with your families. :P

I do like this one

2008-11-13T20:39:00.001-06:00

You Are the Bow Pose

You are an open hearted person. You seek connections and make them easily.

You are naturally generous - especially with your love and your time.

You have a knack for thinking up interesting ideas. You are an inventor and a creator.

You approach everything in life with a relaxed attitude. You accept what you can't change.

What Yoga Pose Are You?

Hopefully I'll have something crafty to post at the weekend's end.

High end sock day

2008-10-06T18:13:00.002-05:00

Here's a pic of my Noro Kueryon socks. It was my first Noro project. I love the colors but it isnt' the softest yarn in the world. But they are very comfortable on.... So I guess they get a thumbs up after all...

These are my Olympic knitting socks, from the Socktopia Ravelry Group. I used Socks That Rock medium weight in Beryl.

And a close up shot of the ring pattern.....

Today I spent some time knitting after my ill-fated trip to the ER. Appherently I am allergic to Bees. Hmmm, who knew? But I have a nice start on a Minimalist Cardi now, in rose colored Rowan Cashsoft. Mmmmm it's so yummy to work with that I almost don't care that I was a human pincushion earlier.

the swimming lesson

2008-10-05T22:05:00.003-05:00

As promised, here are some pictures of the munchkin's first swimming lesson....

She is having so much fun. And when Daddy comes with us, I get an workout in. That makes Mommy happy.
Tomorrow I'll post some sock pictures. Yes I have actually finished some knitting. Can you believe it?

2008-10-03T19:52:00.003-05:00

For all the outlander fans out there, check this this out.

And while you're there check out the "Zoe Chronicles." Seriously, knitting girls (and you know who you are) check it out.

Everyone needs goals

2008-09-20T11:37:00.002-05:00

As I look through my syllabi and plan out the week it occurs to me that I have too much to do and it likely won't be letting up as I near the holidays. So an action plan is order.

First I need a list of Xmas projects:
*Woodins set
*Sheldon set
*Dragon puppets
*WI afghan
*sew up bath gloves
*make up bath treats
*felted fuzzy slippers
*Jughead hat
*Ladder of Life socks
*Sweet Suede purse
*beaded votives
*gnomes and house set
*Elijah
*Subway mittens?

And now for the small manageable chunks:
this month I will finish Vince's vest and the chemo socks and one of the xmas projects (because I just can't help myself)

Now let's see if can meet my goals.....

Eye Candy

2008-09-17T23:12:00.002-05:00

The new Knitty is Out! Hazaah! I have a new laptop and I'm finally falling into my new schedule. So there will be pics of the munchkin's first swimming lesson up soon, as well some FO pics and a piece I'm writing for class. It's knitting realted, sort of so why not advertise, right?

ps: Courtney, Jenn and Joy... I miss you so guys so much it actually hurts.

A Beautiful Day

2008-06-18T11:08:00.003-05:00

After the torrential rain passed, we've had some nice weather, so the munchkin was able to spend time in her new favorite place, the sand box.

And what do i do when she's ensconced in sand?

This is the current sock, a birthday present for my sister.
And since it's a lovely day, here's a shot from the new deck....

Back from the Dead, but Wearing the Knitting Funk

2008-06-09T22:37:00.002-05:00

So I'm am happily installed, mostly, in our house. And im loving being back in Wisconsin.No offense to my Indiana friends, but it never felt liek home to me. I feel as though i belong here. And it's a really good feeling. But hte knitting, it suffers. I've lost my mojo. I was kickign butt on the Mystic Light shawl, until the 4th clue. And now it seems that I'm ruining everything I touch. I swear I have a mistake in everyhing right now. So I've decided in order to turn things around I need to knit for someone else. Karma, right? So I'm trying to finiah the infamous Jesse's Flames for my brother. Maybe that will snap me out the pit of yuck. But in the mean time, I'm picking up the muchkin tomorow and pics will follow. Then I can shoe you all th lovely new house.
Maybe that'll help......

Enough is Enough

2008-04-21T07:41:00.002-05:00

My stash never seemed that big to me. Perhaps its because so much of it is inherited acrylic that I don't think about. However while prepping the house for sale I was floored when I saw just how much I yarn I have. Boxes and boxes and a couple more boxes. So I've started working on a stash buster log cabin afghan, to get started whittling it down. Since I'm using scraps it will be a patchwork of primary colors. DH and the Munchkin love it. DH agreed that it really isn't my style which must be why they like it so much.
So yeah, we're moving, and between that and finals I feel like my head might explode. We'll be moving to Wisconsin this summer, so DH can start a new job for the fall semester. So far there is interest in the house, which is amazing in this town/market. And when all is said and done we'll be much closer to our parents. That's the other bit of excitement in my life. A couple weeks ago, my Dad went into a diabetic coma, and we didn't even know he was diabetic, neither did he. It was scary for a few days but he's back home now, a little whoozy, but doing much better. So not only will the Munchkin get more grandparent time, but it won't take me twelve hours to drive up there if needed. We'll only be two hours south of them and an hour and a half north of the in-laws. And of course I've already scoped out the local yarn stores.

Fridays are for posting

2008-03-07T06:09:00.002-06:00

I don't know why but I seem to post on Fridays. It's not intentional, I just seem to get caught up with everything on Fridays. Hmmmm..... 'Tis a mystery. And this week is no exception. The good news: midterms are over and it's just about Spring Break. I say just about, because I have one more French class before it's official for me, but we're not doing anything serious in it, so my brain has pretty much turned off. In fact I'm bringing my knitting to school today because it's far more important/exciting today. Well that and I'm on deadline. The DH is going to New York by way of Milwaukee on Tuesday and I'm tryign to get his belated Xmas sweater vest finished so he can take it with him. It's the Knotting Hill vest from Knitscene and I'm doing it in green so it'll be perfect for St. Patrick's Day. And yes he'll be in New York for the parade. I am so jealous. i went last year and it was amazing. I thought I might have a stroke when I saw all the young, hot, bagpipers filling the streets. Yum.... But due to my recent hospitalization and weird health situation I'm staying home this year. Boo. However he's going by way of Milwaukee in order to drop off the munchkin, so I'll be getting a week of peace and quiet. Now that's a Spring Break. I plan to sew and knit all week long. Well, okay I'm going to throw in a yoga class or two as well, but that's it. :) So I'm off to finish the vest and take pictures of all the projects I've been working on and I mean it this time, when I say there will be pictures this week. After all what else will I have to do.....

something fun for friday

2008-02-29T15:06:00.001-06:00

Which Alice in Wonderland character are YOU?
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Alice

You scored Alice! You are kind-hearted and curious and give yourself very good advice, but seldom follow it, which leads you into trouble. You always try to be courteous and polite, but you become cross when people speak in nonsense to you and scold them sharply.

Alice

92%

The Dormouse

75%

Cheshire Cat

58%

Walrus

58%

Mad Hatter

58%

Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum

58%

March Hare

58%

Carpenter

50%

A Playing Card

50%

Caterpillar

42%

The White Rabbit

42%

Flamingo

33%

Queen of Hearts

33%

Oyster

17%

Getting back on top

2008-02-23T08:38:00.002-06:00

I have a very good reason for not posting in forever. I was in the hospital. I got the horendous flu bug that was going around and then it got very warm here, adn my lungs couldn't keep up. My husband called it the perfect storm of asthma. And indeed it was. My doctor tried to treat as an outpatient for nearly a week, but it became clear that I need constant care for a few days. And of course during the admitting process my cell phone is vibrating becasue the munchkin had a fever and needed to be picked up from daycare. Of course she did... Needless to say I fell behind in everything, the kiddo needed to be re-programmed once I got back home, and I'm finally getting back on top of my crazy life.
In my previous post I mentioned that somethign was brewing. Well here it is: we're moving back to Wisconsin. My husband took a job in Oshkosh and after some debate over my chances of transfering and finally finishin my degree, we decided to go for it. Our parents are over the moon! We'll be an hour and a half to two hours away from both sets. My brother's super excited as well. He's already planning to spend all of his weekends with us. So that's the exciting news.
On other fronts, I recieved my Vintage Sock Swap package. Thanks Eveline! The socks are beautiful! I also signed up for the Mystic Lights KAL. Sign-ups are open until March 25, so come along. I've bought Dream in Color Smooshy in Dusky Aurora. I wound it up yesterday and now I really can't wait to start. Squeeeee! It's a good thing I have Icarus and all my UFOs to keep me busy in the mean time. That's the bad part about moving, dealing with the yarn stash. I need to do some serious organizing and packing before we can think of having people look at the house. This is going to be a busy spring. Well that's all for now. I felt I had to break my silence. I'll have pictures tomorrow.

stand still and drown, will you?

2008-01-23T13:51:00.000-06:00

Okay so life is really weird right now. We are waiting to hear some potentially life altering news, no illness or baby... but life changing all the same. While we wait, and freak out, I'll have written four paper in three weeks (by next week) and worked through 5 chapters of French and read more than I read in the entire last semester. Don't get me wrong, I love my classes and most of my teachers, but Good Lord! The munchkin has truly fallen down the two-year-old-rabbit hole and is lucky to be alive. So how do i manage all this? How do I cope? Aperhently lace does the trick. Yeah I did it. DH's Xmas sweater is not finished but I started Icarus. I am such a yarn slut. But the funny thing is, I love this pattern. It's so easy to follow and soothing. And the yarn is so yummy.... Ah.... I will take pictures of my lovely this weekend. after the paper stampede dust has settled and I can find the camera. But for now just know that I am in love and a woman in love can do anything! That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Gettin' There

2007-12-13T22:51:00.000-06:00

Sure I've got my physics final tomorrow, but when else will I find time to bake with the munchkin... I also managed to finish two Christmas presents and take pictures for the Christmas cards, and there ordered too. I may finish my to-do list before we have to leave. Wouldn't that be a miracle? Well back to Physics...

Addendum

2007-12-06T10:19:00.000-06:00

On further inspection of the new Knitty, I have to add Dahlia to my list as well. In fact I have some red Wool of the Andes that I've been trying to fins a project for. Hmmmmmmm....... I really need to finish my holiday knitting. But first I have trees to decorate and Lac operon sequences to decifer before my class... Hopefully I'll get some nice pictures taken by tomorrow. Picture-less posts can get boring, no?

Welcome Winter

2007-12-05T16:10:00.000-06:00

It finally snowed here! Yeah!!!! It's been snowing in Wisconsin off and on since Thanksgiving, and my family has made me so jealous. But now we finally have the cold wet stuff and it's gone a long way to increase my holiday cheer! And to top it all off, the new Knitty is up. I'm in love with Abotanicity and Chevrolace. Now if I can just clear off my knitting plate and order some Trekking.

Buried

2007-12-03T13:45:00.000-06:00

I wish I was buried under snow like my mother but instead I've been buried under school work and all the holiday stuff. Ugh! I've already given up on two knitted gifts and my husband may get his only half finished. If only I didn't have those pesky final exams. Between the cumulative physics exam and the highly detailed genetics exam I may not make it to Christmas. But on the bright side nearly all of my holiday shopping is done. And half of my pierogi are made and in the freezer. Well, okay 2/3 are done. But I'm tryign to be optimistic. I've had so many great blogging topics come to me over the last few days and by the time I get to sit down they're gone. So I'm going to make an effort to write down these little jewels as they come to me. Hopefully I can make this a more interesting and entertaining read. But for now I've got a munchkin play-date.

Ch-ch-changes

2007-11-04T17:20:00.001-06:00

I have been very quiet here in blog-land because I have been making some big changes in my life. Soem of them are not ready to talk about just yet, but one is. I have changed my major. I flipped my chemistry major to a minor and my english minor to a major. And I'm feeling a good deal better.I've been sailign through my english classes with As, and killing myself for Cs in my science and math classes. Silly, no... So next semester I will have 4 english classes and a french. Hmmmmmmmmm! *big sigh* So I will hopefully be back to blogging on a more regular schedule. In the mean time here are some fun munchkin picks from the last month, homecoming and halloween.

why not....

2007-11-04T16:00:00.000-06:00

Which sci-fi crew would you best fit in with? (pics)
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Heart of Gold (Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy)

You are a light and humorous person. No one can help but to smile to your wit. Now if only the improbability

drive would stop turning you into weird stuff.

Heart of Gold (Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy)

94%

Deep Space Nine (Star Trek)

81%

Babylon 5 (Babylon 5)

81%

Serenity (Firefly)

75%

Moya (Farscape)

75%

Millennium Falcon (Star Wars)

75%

Enterprise D (Star Trek)

63%

Galactica (Battlestar: Galactica)

56%

Bebop (Cowboy Bebop)

56%

FBI's X-Files Division (The X-Files)

50%

Andromeda Ascendant (Andromeda)

50%

SG-1 (Stargate)

50%

Nebuchadnezzar (The Matrix)

38%

Oh Happy Day!

2007-09-11T20:05:00.000-05:00

What a joy it was to be chilly this morning. I forgot what that felt like. In fact I was able to wear my jaywalkers and my new Eath shoes today. and I have to say my back does feel better. The sock mania continues, my monkeys are finished and I'm almost done with a pair for my Mom. I would be on my second "On your toes" sock but I decided to rip back and try to make it a knee high. I don't know if I'll have enough yarn, but I certainly had a lot left over when I was ready to cast off, so my fingers are crossed. As soon as my Mom's socks are done, I need to start a pair for my MIL. Her birthday is coming up and she really liked my jaywalkers so she'll be getting a nearly matching pair. I love Tofutsies yarn so I'm happy to make a duplicate pair. Plus I'm using the leftovers for stripped socks later on... I can't wait to get to those they already look beautiful in my head. Of course all this knititng has to occur around my study schedule which is a bit math heavy at the present. What was I thinking taking Calculus 2 and Physics together? Well to be fair that wasn't the origianl plan, but I digress. I did find my camera cord (finally) so I leave you with a few pretty images.

The Birthday Girl (I can't believe she's two) and my Sockpalooza socks. Arent' they gorgues? I love them! Thank you Jenneke!

Technical difficulties

2007-08-26T21:24:00.001-05:00

We have lost, rather misplaced, the computer cord for our camera. Which means that I can't post pictures of all the lovely yarn I bought at Stitches, and I can't post pictures of the munchkin's second birthday party. I blame the husband who went on a home improvement kick while I was away, but that doesn't make the cord appear, so it's not really important. I also have wonderful pictures of the fabulous socks that my sock pal made for me, and I am so mad that I can't find my stupid cord... At any rate, school has started and I'm still knitting so that's a very good sign. I finished my Monkey socks this weekend, and I'm trying to finish a long overdue second sock. I need to get back to my brother's sweater and next weekend begins my Sweet Mary Jane KAL. So we'll see how that goes. Hopefully I'll have pictures soon, because I blog without pictures is just sad.

On the road again

2007-08-03T08:01:00.000-05:00

Literally, we were in Amish country the last couple days, and now the munchkin and I are off to Wisconsin. And after a week I'll be moving on to Stitches Midwest. Yahoo! So I can't promise that I'll be posting, since the internet access in the woods is a little unpredictable, not to mention sloooowwwwww. So happy summer to all! I'll have a ton of picture in about a week.

No Photos

2007-07-25T13:37:00.000-05:00

If I wait for my pictures I may never post again. So here's what's new: I finished my Sockpalooza socks! Yeah! And I started a pair of Monkey socks for myself which I like to refer to as my "Harry Monkeys" because I've been working on them while reading the last Harry Potter (plus it just sounds funny). Yesterday I did a truck load of cooking and put most of it in freezer for when fall classes pick up. And I pulled a lot of weeds in the garden today. Now if I could just get excited about finishing my brother's sweater. Oh yeah, the Munchkin is working on potty training too. So I guess it's been a pretty busy week so far.

Rainy Day

2007-07-18T06:29:00.000-05:00

It's raining, again. And I have a head cold/sinus thing. So I'm not too perky. I am almost done with my sockapalozza socks. They should be done in the next few days and I'll get a picture up. I like them so much I almost hate to send them away. But they're too big for me so I guess I can let go. And then to finish my brother's sweater. He asked me to knit him a sweater, oh about two maybe even three years ago. And I cast on but never really got anywhere with it. So I promised him that I would finish it for his birthday. Not that anyone in their right mind needs a wool sweater in August, but it does put me on deadline. So, hopefully I can get most of the socks finished at work today (there will be a lot of hurry up, now wait time)so I can get cracking on Jesse's Flames. I have the front finished and I'm working on an arm, but the intarsia slows me down. My plan is to dedicate myself to that sleeve this week. And when it's finished, Friday or Saturday, I want to cast on for the back and run right through it. So my fingers are crossed. I guess the rain did come at a good time, it's forcing me to stay inside and knit. Not that that's a bad thing.

truth in the absurd

2007-07-16T12:08:00.000-05:00

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is:
Milady the Most Honourable Amy the Erudite of Much Leering
Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

Ha!Ha! There's actually a little truth to this. Oh well enough silliness, I need to deal with the screaming child in the other room.

The best of summer

2007-07-10T21:21:00.000-05:00

So the recent heat has had me thinking about how I tolerate summer. I should preface this by sayign that I LOVE fall and the begining of winter. Those first couple snows make me so happy. And what's more beautiful than a crisp automn day complete with breeze, fiery leaves and the smell of a fireplace somewhere...
Alas it's July and I'm determined to make the most of it, by making salads for dinner and sharing some photos...

Zoe offers sunscreen to Elmo

And it's just not summer without my ivy geraniums. I fell in love with them in Paris.... Mmmmm......
My first sucessfull hollyhock, my mother is sooooooo jealous!

And my Dahlias are doing very well. Some where I lost the picture of my herbs... Let's just say that I haev four differnt kinds of basil and about fourteen types of herbs. Oh Fifteen becuase lavender counts too!

Squeeeeeeee!

2007-07-04T07:51:00.000-05:00

It came!
It came!
My invitation to Ravelry!

And it's all I'd hoped it would be!

The Munckin

2007-06-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

My husband was away this weekend at a work thing, and being the only parent spurred some thought on my part. My daughter is really some kind of kid. She's pretty much a self-imposed vegetarian. She has just started eating chicken in very small amounts, and she likes hot dogs (which I don't consider meat) but that's it. She prefers chickpeas, and tofu enchiladas. She's a maniac for veggi lomein, or fried rice. She is addicted to cheese. I'm not complaing here. I think it's great. But it seems strange that she loathes all thing breaded, and can already appreciate good rye bread. She's also very aware of her own clock. It seemed that she was slow to speak, but now she's turning out full phrases. She can identify her own name when it's written down and pick out the proper letters on own. And she's getting much better about playing with other kids. This may sound a bit boasfull, but I really marvel at the person she's becoming. And I'm so proud to be her mommy.

2007-06-12T17:30:00.000-05:00

As promised awhile ago, here is a picture of my new organised stash. Of course that's not all of it. There are still three rubbermaid tubs in the closet next to the new shelves. :) But the "tub" yarn is charity and baby stuff, so it doesn't need as much organization

And my husband's first pair of socks (from me)

I love the way the jaywalkers turned out! And the spindle socks are too comfy!

And a picture of my new imporved, even more red, hair.

This was taken on Courtney's wedding day (link in previous post). Congrat's Honey! I'm so glad you had such a beautiful day!

2007-06-02T20:02:00.001-05:00

I have been so busy lately I haven't had time to post. My reserch appointment is goign well, but taking a lot of time. And between Courtney's wedding and my sister visiting I've been running! Soon I'll post some pictures of FOs and my newly organized sewing room and stash. But I just wanted to check in and say "Hi!" I'll also try to get soem good pictures of my new hair. I henna-ed it this week and it's gorgues. Red, but a really rich red. I promise pictures will be up this week. Hope you're all having a good weekend.

What knitting have you done?

2007-05-17T19:03:00.000-05:00

I've seen this around the net, and wondered how I would measure up. I'm proud to say that I'm more experienced than I thought. The Bold are things I've done and the Italics are things that I plan on doing someday.

Afghan
I-cord
Garter stitch
Knitting with metal wire
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Hat
Knitting with silk
Moebius band knitting
Participating in a KAL
Sweater
Drop stitch patterns
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (=modular knitting)
Twisted stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two end knitting
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Cardigan
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with circular needles
Baby items
Knitting with your own hand-spun yarn
Slippers
Graffiti knitting
Continental knitting
Designing knitted garments - I'm working on this now actually, but I'm not finished
Cable stitch patterns
Lace patterns
Publishing a knitting book
Participate in an exchange
Scarf
Teaching a child to knit
American/English knitting
Knitting to make money - I wish!
Buttonholes
Knitting with alpaca
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cosies…)
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on one or two circulars
Knitting with someone else’s hand-spun yarn
Knitting with dpns
Holiday related knitting
Teaching a male how to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living - again I wish!
Knitting with cotton
Knitting smocking
Dying yarn
Steeks
Knitting art
Knitting two socks on two circulars simultaneously
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener stitch
Knitted flowers
Purses/bags
Knitting with beads
Swatching
Long Tail CO
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Machine knitting
Knitting with self patterning/self striping/variegated yarn
Stuffed toys
Knitting with cashmere
Darning
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Intarsia
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Free-form knitting
Short rows
Cuffs/fingerless mits/arm-warmers
Pillows
Knitting a pattern from an on-line knitting magazine
Rug Knitting on a loom
Thrummed knitting
Knitting a gift
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair - Eeewwww!
Hair accessories
Knitting in public

Time Flys

2007-05-16T19:29:00.000-05:00

Where did my vacation go? The Exterra started coughing on the way out of Indiana. So we literally spent the entire day driving. We had to rent a car to drive back to our house with in order to get the Civic, in order to turn around and start over. Ugh! As if the pilgramige isn't rough enough... And unfortunately I didn't get much knitting done, or at least not as much as I hoped. And I didn't get any real reading done. I brought a brand new book and read three pages. And now I'm back home, trying to get into the swing of my new research job. It'll get better, but right now I'm just trying to get through the week. Although it's nice to not have homework to worry about, I'm just not into my new routine yet.
On the bright side, most of my cutting garden has been planted, along with two forget-me-nots and a bleeding heart. I finished my spindle socks, and I'm on the hubby's second sock's heel. I also have the loooonnnnnggggg lace scarf done. I would be a lot farther on my Sahara, but when I got to the waist shaping I reallilzed that I was short on the back stitches so I just ripped two inches worth of body to fix that. And I did manage to get to the Elegent Ewe in Menominee. I love that place. I treated myself to a skein of Cheery Tree Hill in Serangheti. I also picked up two skeins of Tofu-tsies for gifts.
Well that's all the time I have for now, but I'll be around much more regularly now. Summer is a much more relaxign time for me.

Because tonight is all about fun

2007-05-04T15:22:00.000-05:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

2007-05-04T13:43:00.000-05:00

No more homework
No more books
No more teacher's dirty looks

at least for a couple months.... That's right finals are officially over. They weren't great but they didn't need to be. Now I'm on to the unwinding. If the rain blows over my knitting girls will be enjoying grilled strip steaks and grilled corn with their cosmos, if not I'll boil the corn and broil the steaks. But either way there will be Cosmos and cake. Yahoo!

I'm not Dead yet

2007-05-02T12:04:00.000-05:00

I'm still around I promise. I have two more final exams, and then I shall be free to blog until my fingers cramp up. My organic exam is on friday, and then I will be back with a vengance. I have munchkin pictures and garden tales, and of course knitting to catch up on. So, soon very soon, I'll be posting daily. Well at least daily, after Mother's Day. We're going to Wisconson for Mother's Day and while we're in the woods, computer time is very limited, but I'll check in Milwaukee. Until then.....

What a Secret Pal!

2007-04-21T19:13:00.000-05:00

I got my very first Secret Pal Package! And what a package it was!

Check out the booty...

And I can't say enough about this washcloth. I love the cable so much I'm afraid to actually use it.

Berroco Glace is so soft, and this fushia is so pretty. And pink and green stitch markers.. I love pink and green. It's so pretty and perky.

My pal even sent treats for the munchkin, a Clifford dog, and two lovely books. Zoe was so delighted she slept with him and brought him to breakfast with her.

Thank You Secret Pal! You're the best!

So Much

2007-04-19T05:54:00.000-05:00

Wow! so much has happened lately. I was inducted into Lamda Iota Tau, the national honor society for english majors/minors. I recieved my summer reaserch match, and it's great. I'll be workign with a Doctor at the hospital who is doing glucose metabolism reserch. He's considered adjunct facility, and all though I probably won't see my chemistry friends too much it's sounds very interesting. Monday is our last regular Calculus Exam and the last week of regular classes. Yes that's right. I never trhought it would come, but the semester is drawing to a close. I'm thrilled and terrified. I could use another few weeks in Organic, but I'm also thrilled to leaving it behind. Organic Chemistry is something that I know I'll need to access later, but right now it's abstract and convoluted. It's just a bunch of reaction floating around in space. I'm sure that it will fall into place when I take Biochemsitry and have an application for it.
Last friday was a fun time. Lots of chinese food, red wine, and a ball winder. I'll post pictures later today. The Munchkin helped too. This week I'm planning kababs on the grill. Hopefully it should be warm and sunny, and the munchkin can run in the grass, while we laze about on the patio. That sounds so good right now. Thursday mornings are always so difficult. I ahev to get up early after Wednesday, my all day day. Truely I work early on Wednesday and round it off with a night class, and an afternoon full of Organic. Luckily next semester (fall) I don't have nay night classes. What will I do with myself. I'll almost be on a normal schedule. Well, I'm off to shower and to work. I'll post some pictures later.

ps-Lynn, you are so right about the mini-me thign. It's almost spooky. If my baby pictures weren't fading it would be hard to tell who you're looking at. :)

The Peeps

2007-04-12T19:11:00.000-05:00

So the Munchkin likes Peeps. Not as much as the malted milk balls, I mean eggs. But she does like the marshmallow. This week has been insane nad since I am lacking in knitting news or pictures I figure a dose of cuteness is in order.

She also likes to paint, which I figured. I think "draw" was her third word. Of course I'm procrasting here. i should be studyign for an Organic Exam, adn doign integrals for Calculus. But there is a light at the end of my tunnel. Tommorow night is knitting night. I'm ordering take-out and Courtneywill be coming over for some knitting and down time. Thank Goodness.

Adendum and a movie

2007-04-01T21:04:00.000-05:00

Well now I know why the few socks I've made for myself were tight. I measured my foot wrong. That's right, or maybe they grew when I was pregnant. Weird things happen to your body when it's busy making a new person. But my foot is actually 8 1/2" long. And I can say that with confience after re-measure yesterday three times. I just couldn't believe it. Al of this comes form a good place though. I finished the frst jaywalker and started the second, while watching "The Holiday." And I must say I loved that movie. First of all I was pleased that while it is a chick flick it not as cheese ball predictible as most. And I really didn't think anyone could make Jude Law any sexier, but this writer did... I don't want to spoil it it so I'll leave it there. I even found Jack Black attractive, JACK BLACK! His character was just so sweet. So check out the movie and maybe, just mabye re-check your own sock size.

On the Needles

2007-03-24T11:39:00.000-05:00

So the first week back from Break is always rough, but I feel especailly bad about this one. The week flew by and I did the barest minimum that I could get away with. I am so ashamed, and behind. Because of this I will be spending most of this weekend studying. even though my friend Joy offered to come over with a pizza and knitting. She's supposed to be cleaning the house. I guess we all have things we avoid.

On my needles right now, I have two socks and a scarf. As soon as my KnitPicks order comes in, I will also have a "duckie jumper" in the works for the munckin to wear at Easter. This is wishfull thinking because it probably won't get down that quickly, but I can hope.

This is my Elfine Sock. It's been overcast here so the colors aren't as vibrant as they should be. I'm using Lorna's Laces in Envy. I love them. I've taken to calling them my New York socks. Partly because I started them there and partly because the color reminds me of St. Patrick's Day. This is my first magic figure 8 cast on, and even though it's fiddly to work up it looks so nice.

This is my most intuitive project ever. I bought the new Tofu-tsies yarn with no idea what pattern I would use. And I hadn't really planned on making a pair of Jaywalkers. But for soem reason the idea came into my head, and as I got into the pattern I was amazed. This yarn was made for this pattern. In fact the yarn looks better knit in this pattern then it does in the skein. The colors are much richer than the picture shows, much more royal or regal looking. And the yarn is so soft. Yeah for Soy silk!

And the shadow scarf keeps on keepin on. I worked on it in the airport and on the plane, and it's getting long, but just not long enough. Here's a close up of the pattern, feather and fan.

And last but not least, my finished Clapotis, which came in very handy in New York, when the ice storm hit.... And for the record this picture was not posed. i spread it out and took a full length shot. And the munchkin came runnign and positioned herself. She is a camera hog!

On top of the world!

2007-03-19T22:25:00.000-05:00

So in an attempt to avoid my Orgainc Chemistry notes, I've been working on my "Home To-Do List." You know clean the coffee maker, write a grocery list... and add buttons to my blog. And low and behold I did it! I've been wanting to do this forever, and tonight I finally figured it out. Yeah! I know that they are just pictures, but they make me happy. And now I can go to sleep feeling accomplished even if I didn't do any studying tonight. I have a couple more things to do on line, and then the bunny and I are calling it a night. Stories form New York will be up tommorow. Mmmmmmm men in kilts, now there are some sweet dreams.

The Big Apple

2007-03-13T16:18:00.000-05:00

I have so much I want to post, but I'm not packed yet. and I leave for New York tommorow morning. So there will be Project Spectrum posts and Finished objects next week, when I'm back to the grind. Not to mention cute new munchkin pictures.

Ahhhhhhh Spring Break!

Secret Pal 10

2007-02-24T17:44:00.000-06:00

I've been workign on this little by little but here is my Secret Pal Questionaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I'm not wild about acrylic and chennile. They have their places, mainly kid's clothes, but I don't like them for myself.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have my needles and hooks in a few Ball/Mason jars on my sewing desk. They are blue and clear and different sizes. It's very country.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I taught myself at least six years ago. I was working in a group home, third shift and it was something to do to stay awake. Then I really got a taste for it, and now I think I'm addicted. I'm willing to tackle just about any pattern, but I have a toddler, so I've been working on things that have simple repeats, because I have to put it down a lot, or work at night when I'm already tired. Someday I'll get back to my Eris, but right now I just can't get anywhere with the cables.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I think I have an Amazon wish list, but it's been a while since I checked in. I should really that.

5. What's your favorite scent?
Now that depends. I'm very sesonal with my scents. At the end of the year, I long for my pine and orange candles. Come spring I yearn for lavendar and peony. And in the summer nothing makes me happier than fresh basil. My absolute favorite perfume has fig and almonds and spice. Of course I also have basil perfume, and of course rose oil too.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Wehn it comes to candy I like salty sweets and dark chocolate. nothing too sweet. Things with nuts (for the salt) nad dark aggresive chocolate. I keep a bag of Dark Hershey Kisses in my freezer at all times, and I always end up eatign at least one Reese's Peanut Butter Egg at Easter.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have a drop spindle but I still havent' quite got the hang of it. I'm hoping to work on it more this summer, when my classes are over. I also sew, garden, cook, scrap...

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like nearly everything except for Country and Rap. I've gotten into Irish music lately, love that Irish and Celtic Music Podcast! I also tend to like soundtracks (mainly from chick flicks) and muscials. My Ipod has a lot of jazz mixed in with Sheryl Crow, and Simon and Garfunkel.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love pink and green and red and purple. pretty much in that order too. I've always wanted a soft buttery yellow sweater, but I tried one on recently and I looked like a corpse. So yellow is pretty much out. I also love the autmun for it's colors, so that whole palette is very pleasing to me.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I live with my husband and our daughter who is approaching the terrible twos. We have a modest house with a nice garden. We also have a house rabbit (a diva) who is liter box trained and named Abby, and a fancy tailed goldfish named "fishy" (becuase my daughter can actually say that).

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes, I esecailly like scarves, and I want to make a pair of fingerless mits.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I'm very partial to socks and lace lately. But I like just about everything, escpecailly if it's done in the round.

13. What are you knitting right now?
I'm furiously tryign to finish a claptois before I leave for New York. And I'll be takign a lace scarf and soem lace socks to work on while traveling.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
I love it, but it doesn't happen very often. Usually I'm gifting someone else.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Circular, much earsier on my wrists. I don't really have a prefrence to actual material. i have them all, but I do want to try the new knitpicks circulars, mainly because I her they are so very pointy.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Not yet, but if I keep up with the handpainted yarn, my husband will get tired of holding my yarn for me, so I may get them for christmas.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
You don't get that inofrmation with out dinner and a drink. It's jsut that embarassign.

18. What is your favorite holiday?
I love Chritsmas and Halloween and Thanksgiving. I'm a very fall-ish person.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
Not really. I started collecting those little ceramic shoes from Hallmark, but they stopped making those. And I started collecting martini glasses, but then I got preganant and I rarely look for or buy anything for myself, except yarn of course.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
The knit picks circulars look cool, as I mentioned. And I'm on the look out for cool knee socks.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I don't think so. I've tried a little of everything. Maybe steaking, although it scares the heck out of me!

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Oh yes! 8" and 8"

23. When is your birthday?
December 31st.

How Nice

2007-02-21T16:26:00.000-06:00

Just for fun, which I needed after grinding potassium bromide for an IR scan.

I am a
Snapdragon

What Flower
Are You?

It's all relative

2007-02-20T16:24:00.000-06:00

During Calculus this morning, my second spindle sock began it's siren song from my book bag. Now I didn't pull it out and work on it during Implicit Derivatives, but I did think about it lust-fully. I want to finish this pair in the worst way. They are soft pink and so squishy and warm. I'm hard pressed to think of something more comforting (maybe my homemade turkey veg noodle soup, but anyway). So my mind wandered between "the derivative of y in relation to the derivative of x" and the lovely winding cables on my socks. The pattern is really pretty simple and easily memorizable after a few repeats, but even still I've ripped these suckers back more times than I care to count. They were all dumb mistakes like my gauge was too tight so I needed a bigger needle, and then I missed a row so one cable was shorter than the others. And I just can't live that. So I've been working on them for awhile even though it's a really fast sock. At any rate I really want to finish them so I can enjoy them before it gets too warm. And we have been warming up here, we're supposed to flood this weekend when all the snow melts. Anyway I'm sitting in class thinking over all the mistakes and I started to compare the sock mistakes to the stupid mistakes I make in Calculus and Organic chemsitry for that matter.
This semester I have a new study motto: Math and Science are just like the damn paino, keep practising! And today it occured to me that these are all similar to knitting. The more I work with yarn and needles the easier it becomes. Certain stich patterns are second nature, and I rely on the patterns much less. And the better I get at fixing mistakes the less they freak me out. This is so true with Math. I blew the first Calculus exam, but I could see all the dumb mistakes and it didn't bother as much as it would have a few semesters ago. And the more I work at it, the more comfortable I am with a pattern and the less I double check against the solution manual. So I guess my thought for the day is that everything in life is realted. Lessons learned in one area of your life can easily translate to another, and often times get you off that ledge (the math ledge). And for those of you wondering I did cozy up with the sock after class, and I feel better for it.

So Much

2007-02-19T21:01:00.000-06:00

I have been so neglectfull of my blog. School got crazy, the munchkin got sick (so we followed suit) and then the snow came.

The munchkin offered to man the snowblower.

And she also wanted to help Mommy knit.

I did get alot of knitting done during our two snow days. My friend Brad's Xmas socks are finished, I worked for hours on the longest lace scarf ever. Yes Athenae, I'm still at it. It may be finished by next Xmas but it really is lovely, and I got a good start on a Clapotis. It's sad when you turn to Kogiu because it has heft to it. I love the way the lace looks and feels but I really didn't realize that it would take so long. I've never done real lace, wtih lace weight yarn before. Wow! What an experience.

And now to add my two cents worth, I hear there is a heated deabte going on... I was so excited for the new Interweave. I'm ready for soem fun spring knitting and I had already downloaded the new Winding Cable Knee Socks. And I thought: Oh look a new format, it looks really nice. Well I'm refering to the online pattern format. It is nice. The magazine format however.... It looks like Vogue Knitting. Why did they do that? I love that they aren't Vogue Knitting. I love that the patter is right next to the pattern. I hate flipping back to see what a pattern needs and then flipping back to the picture. Ugh! I still like the patterns but i felt like I was reading some new magazine instead of my comfort food magazine. I'm going ot give it another try tonight, but last night when I turned to the new copy for some much needed realaxtion (after Calculus) I felt frazzled. I felt like I had to concentrate too hard. And so I put it down and plugged into an older episode of Cast On. Because Brenda Dayne always makes me feel good.

Frost Bite

2007-01-19T22:55:00.000-06:00

Have people lost their minds? I walked past a girl, on the way to Calculus, who was wearing flipflops and a spring jacket. Now I guess I should mention that with the wind chill it was 16 F at this point. I had to laugh because her toe nails were painted a dark blue, and I thought: How appropriate. Since her feet will be the same the color by the end of the day. As I walked around campus with my hood firmly tied around my head, I daydreamed of knitting a plethora of warm knitted items, socks, hats scarves and mittens. I imagined swimming in a stream of hot cholcolate, and yet these crazies are walkign around in shorts, flipflops, jackets flapping in the frigid wind. The funniest part is that I run hot. I'm miserable in the summer, and over heat easily if I over layer. So this is not a feezey cat rant. I don't know maybe I'm just getting old. But I just don't understand flip flops in Indiana in January.

Crazy Days

2007-01-09T13:36:00.000-06:00

Well, we survived the holidays and the traveling. But we've started our New Year with a couple of funerals. That makes me nervous. It seems like a really bad way to start a year. And I'm not superstitious... I'm also starting the year behind. I have two Christmas presents to finish. A pair of socks and a lace scarf. Who knew lace was so slow going. I love the finished product, but that yarn is so thin.... I have many other projects that are calling to me. It's a good thing I got an Ipod for Christmas, so now knitting time is also audiobook time. Even more incentive to curl up in my favorite arm chair. All I need now is a snow day.

Random-ness

2006-12-11T10:20:00.000-06:00

I'm trying to post more regularly, so this may be a bit disjointed, at least I'm posting. The munchkin has taken to breathign into empty water bottles and cups. At first she liked the musical tones, but now she just breathing very heavily. Then she walks around growling to herself. Now I'm sure this is some developmental throat thing, but I've taken to calling her Darth Baby. My husband loves it. So there's a giggle.
In more serious news, I have one final exam down and three to go. Today is the last official day of regular classes, and I couldn't be happier. This semester has really pushed me to my breaking point. As I always, I realized that I need to be more organized so I can use my time more efficiently. I also need to be more realsitc about my course load. But it seems like I've been defeated, somehow.
Well more from the trenches later. I also have a huge pile of Xmas knitting to finish. I need a few more hours in each day, but then don't we all.

She's just too much

2006-12-07T12:24:00.000-06:00

My little munchkin, put on such a show at my doctor's office, that an office woman gave her a sizeable stuffed animal. And not just any animal, but Max, the Grinch's dog, complete with the antler tied to his head. And all she had to do was be cute. What a dangerous precedent. I don't want her to be one of those girls who thinks she can get anythign by batting her eyelashes. The funniest part, is that she put on a little show for the woman. I don't think the woman realized, I but I know the munchkin too well. So Merry Christmas, nice office lady. Sorry you were had by a toddler.

A little fun in between end of the semester nonesense

2006-11-30T13:10:00.000-06:00

You are the World

Completion, Good Reward.

The World is the final card of the Major Arcana, and as such represents saturnian energies, time, and completion.

The World card pictures a dancer in a Yoni (sometimes made of laurel leaves). The Yoni symbolizes the great Mother, the cervix through which everything is born, and also the doorway to the next life after death. It is indicative of a complete circle. Everything is finally coming together, successfully and at last. You will get that Ph.D. you've been working for years to complete, graduate at long last, marry after a long engagement, or finish that huge project. This card is not for little ends, but for big ones, important ones, ones that come with well earned cheers and acknowledgements. Your hard work, knowledge, wisdom, patience, etc, will absolutely pay-off; you've done everything right.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

One Little Duck

2006-11-02T06:22:00.000-06:00

It's the cutest costume ever, and the tights.... needless to say she was a big hit!

Let's try it again

2006-11-01T21:39:00.000-06:00

I tried to post this before, but it didn't work. Besides the history bit, I think this is very accurate, but I never would have guessed Gold. Hmmmmmm! Pics of the Munchkin in a duck costume are on the way.

What Color is Your Brain?

GOLD:

At work or in school: I like set routines and organized ways of doing thingsl rules and directions are a great help to me. I prefer to stay on one topic at a time. I need to know what is expected of me, and I always want to know if I am on the right track. I like subjects that are useful and traditional, such as business, accounting, history and government.
With friends: I prefer people who are careful with their money and who make plans ahead of time. I like my friends to be loyal, dependable and on time. I am serious about love and show it in many practical ways.
With family: I like stability and security and enjoy traditions and frequent celebrations. I like to spend holidays with family members, and I plan ahead for such gatherings.
Take this quiz!

Quizilla |
Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

Wow

2006-10-23T20:04:00.000-05:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There is:
1
person with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Well after having to drop Calculus, and blowing an Organic Exam this made me feel pretty special.

Rudy! Rudy!

2006-09-22T22:35:00.000-05:00

So two weeks ago, my dear dear husband got up before dawn to drive us to South Bend so I could meet Rudy. The Rudy. Now I guess I should explain my love for the Irish. For our second weddign anniversary my husband scored tickets to a Notre Dame home game. Plus his "buddy-in-the-know" scored us a parkign permit next to the grotto and gave us a run down of all the campus must sees on game day. Now this may not sound romantic to some of you, but I started to cry when we sat in our seats, above the tunnel. When they came running out onto the field, I couldn't breathe.When we walked arouns the stadium, I kept referencing the movie Rudy because that was as close as I had ever gotten to being on campus. So this was a huge moment for me.
Back to present day, so here we are, the munchkin tired of her stroller and me, completely blissed out, waiting for Rudy, the man the myth the legend to show up. And he did. And he signed a picture to the munchkin, a helmet for me, took pictures with us, and when we showed up 20 minutes later with said pictures in hand, he signed those too. He was impressed with our ingenuity. My husband is a ventern when it comes to the sports-autograph session.

As if the day couldn't get any better, we stopped at our favorite restaurant in Shipshawana for fried chicken and pie. And I knit an entire sock leg in the car (once the sun woke up of course.) speakign of the esock, I really like the two circular needle method. I'm making a pair for my grandpa to try it out and it really is faster. (pictures to come) I'm also workign on a a pair of cascadign leaves socks (IK pattern) for myself in a Knitpicks palette colorway fawn, It reminds me of squash, sort of butternut, very fall. I can't wait until they're done.
Also, in school related news, i can breathe a little easier. Analytical Chemistry one of my nightmare classes, is going pretty well. I'm hitting my numbers and getting A's on my lab. Thank God! Truly, my prof had me so worried about his grading system that I've been wakign up and bolting upright in the night. Poor husband, I've really got him spooked. Well, off to bed.

Only the begining

2006-09-01T10:48:00.000-05:00

Today is a damp and dreary day, but it's actually cooler too. So I have seen lots of sweaters on campus. And the line for soup in the food court was amazing long. I love it. Every fall-like day that pops up in between the humid end of August, makes me insaely happy. Fall is my favorite time of year, and I'm getting a glimpse of it today. I can't wait to get home an dmake a big mug of tea and curl up with my knitting. I'm curreetnly finishing a pair of Xmas socks, so I can finish a pair of red marbled socks for myself. I tried on th elone sock last night to inspire me to knit faster so I can get to my own stuff. I also plan on finishing Zoe's new sweater this weekend. It's the "Like Father, Like Son" pattern from the Yarn Girl's Guide to Kid Knits. I found a soft chunky yarn, that is pink and purple varigated, on clearance this month. I have the front and back finished, now for the arms, and sewing. Well, back to my fall day dreaming, I mean Organic Chemsitry notes.

2006-08-24T13:46:00.000-05:00

I wanted to post a big messy photo, but my munchkin would not do it. She did get frosting on her face, but she mostly ate the cake. It was chocolate after all. And here she is on her pony, becuase in the words of her Godmother: Every little girl needs a pony. Thanks Athenae!

2006-08-17T11:56:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday to the Munchkin! She is one year old today. I knew I would be excited but I didn't expect to be quite so emotional. Now I understand why my mother gets upset if I don't call her on my birthday. It's not just my birthday but a very special day for her as well. I've been talking to the munchkin all morning, telling her about what this day was like last year and about how much I love her. Of course she just wants to tear apart the garbage and chew on pens, her usual. But I'm swimming in a pool of happy memories. So happy birthday to my baby, who has grown so much!

And now we cue the music

2006-07-21T10:33:00.000-05:00

Summer session is over! My finals are over! I want to shout from the roof tops and drink a few beers. Instead I'm eating soem lovely sauteed kale with white beans and carmalized onions. And tonight my dear husband is putting a chicken on the rotisserre. He got a grill set up and it's amazing. And then the celebratory cocktails will flow.
I'm so happy to free to sew and knit. In fact I need to finish some items before our vacation in August. Look out San Francisco here I come!

She did it!

2006-07-12T21:46:00.000-05:00

The Munckin at the children's museum.

The munchkin took her first steps on her own today. I was so excited I actually jumped up and down. Which made her laugh and clap her hands. My husband even rushed hoem to see if she would walk for him. Of course the minute we got the video camera out, she refused to try anymore. But what a day. Seh did it, she really did it!

In other news, I finished an afghan for my sister's b-day. It's the Lion Brand 4 hour afghan. now it took me longer than four hours, but it was pretyt speedy. But then what do you expect from a size Q crichet hook. I didn't know they came that big.

A great day!

2006-07-08T22:09:00.000-05:00

It started early, but it was great! The munchkin and I went to the Farmer's Market. They had blueberries, and raspberries and peaches. I came home with bright yellow chard that was taller than the kid. No joke. I stuffed some of the leaves with quinoa mixed with apricots and currants and almonds. Mmmmmmmm! And I made up a quick batch of lentils, and the muchkin actually ate them this time. The first time I tried them with her, they were very plain and she actually took them out of her mouth. but this time the celery, carrot, onion and bay leaves improved the taste and she ate them without complaint. We made a trip to Wild Oats, where among the oragnic eggs and yogurt, I picked up Brie studded with Walnuts, and Pesto Jack cheese. I also could have bought every last olive they had, but I plan to send Zoe to college some day. :) It was so nice and cool this evening when I water the garden and I noticed a million baby tomatoes adn a zillion flowers on the beans. We'll be eating pretty in a few weeks. Plus my lavender beel pepper has not only peppers but sctual purple peppers on it. Of course that's what it's supposed to do, but I'm excited all the same.

Progress?

2006-07-05T11:42:00.000-05:00

We finally have a tooth. Or rather the munchkin has one. It broke through on Thursday. And I was wrong about thinking it would be easier after one broke. And that little guy is very sharp! My first Pampered Chef Party, as a consultant didn't happen on Friday. No one RSVP and I only got a few orders, so it's not enough to count for a catalog show. If I can't get people to come to my house for free food, how will I get anyone to host a party? But I did have a good time with the parental units this weekend. Munchkin learned a new trick, she lays down on her side when you say "Night, night." And she is so close to walking on her own. Her standing balance has really improved, and she stands all on her own now. I was about to cast off for the neckline of the shapely tank when I realized that I made the wrong decrease and arm hole shaping. Somewhere along the line I forgot which size I was making, and switched to the wrong one. So I frogged it. But I'm getting much better at that. I can get all the stitches back on the needles without twisting. And I'm almost back to the neckline. However I sliced my thumb on a mandolin (slicing onions) and was off duty for a day. It's better today, as long as I don't squeeze it. And of course it's my dominant hand. But I did manage to finish one of my xmas socks.
The moral of my convoluted story.... One step forward, one back (sometimes two, but I'm trying to be positive). Now I'm off to work through equilibrium problems and trig functions. Such fun, I can hardly wait!

pretty close actually

2006-06-29T19:54:00.000-05:00

Find your own pose!

It was either this or complain about my Chemistry class. I figure this is more pleasing. :)

2006-06-26T10:51:00.000-05:00

The munchkin says Hi!
Just a short post today, to get back into the habit. Summer school is insane. I definately won't be takign physics next summer. Lab classes and the summer schedule don't mix!

2006-06-25T18:21:00.000-05:00

One of the munchkin's new favorite toys, much to her Daddy's displeasure.

The baby sweater I made for my freind Kelly. She's due to pop in July but she hardly looks pregnant. And no swollen feet. So unfair.

Something Fun

2006-06-25T18:19:00.000-05:00

Your Dosha is Pitta

You have a quick mind, a gift for persuasion, and a sharp sense of humor.
You have both the drive and people skills to be a very successful leader.
Argumentative and a bit stubborn, you have been known to be a little too set in your ways.
But while you may be biased toward your own point of view, you are always honest, fair, and ethical.

With friends: You are outgoing and open to anyone who might want to talk to you

In love: You are picky but passionate

To achieve more balance: Be less judgmental of those around you, and take cool walks in the moonlight.

What's Your Dosha?

I did it!

2006-06-23T09:33:00.000-05:00

Okay so I have some actual FO pics to post, and I'll get to that later today. But my biggest achievement to date is making it through this week. This was my first week of Chemistry and Trig. Because the summer classes are time compressed, we have two labs and an exam every week. Add to this the foreign language of trigonometry and a teething baby, and I thought I was going to lose it. But here I am, relaxing with a Ramen cup and the laptop. I think the test went well, and I even followed the entire Trig lecture. Ahhhhhhhh! Now to check in on my favorite blogs. Pics will be posted later.

Bad Blogger

2006-06-02T13:07:00.000-05:00

So I've been bad about posting, again. And there has been so much to write about. The munchkin is crawling and trying so hard to walk. She can do it while holding on to the coffee table or couch, but she starting to test her balance by letting go. And she not half bad either. I love to watch her explore and learn new things, but at the same time it's so bittersweet. She's growing entirely too fast.
I was in Chicago last weekend, and saw Wicked. Thanks Athenae, for an amazing weekend. then back to he grind (aka summer school). I'm almost done with pre-calculus algebra. Then, in two weeks I move on to trig and the sceond half of my Intro to Chemsitry. And then I will be back on track, and all made up for the maternity leave.
I've also been wriiting a lot and just baout ready to send a few pieces out, to contests. Big deep breathe. this is so scary for me. I expect to be rejected but I don't like it all the same.
My garden is starting to fill in. I finally got my roses this year. And I've started working on the Xmas knitting. As my french teacher used to say "There's no rest for the wicked and righteous don't need it." I'm not sure which one I am......

Happy Spring!

2006-04-17T15:01:00.000-05:00

We had a great Easter weekend! The munchkin's god parents came out, and we ate and drank and were very merry. The weather was great. Best part is that I cooked for an army (it's genetic) so this week I don't have to cook, just warm. I hope you all had a great weekend, whatever your creed or location.

2006-04-14T12:59:00.000-05:00

Booking Through Thursday

Reach out a hand, and grab the book that is closest to you. Turn to page 231, or pick a page at random if the book isn't that long. Locate the first sentence of the last paragraph on that page.

Type the sentence here: "Bravo," said Mr. Gardiner.

Does the sentence make sense out of context? This doesn't make a lot of sense, but it's obivously a happy exclamation.

Does reading the sentence make you want to read the rest of the book? Why or why not? Yes, actually, even though it's a short setnence I want to know what's going on. Why is Mr. Gardiner happy? Is anyone else happy?

When blue turns to red

2006-04-10T13:28:00.000-05:00

I'm usually a very liberal person but I am so tired of all these immigrant protests. My family came through Ellis Island. My grandparents spoke Polish at home. My Great grandfather even bought land sit-unseen in Wisconsin and the family started completely from scratch. But the point is that even though it wasn't' easy, and they didn't speak English well, they jumped through the hoops and became citizens. So why can't everyone else? Why should we make special exceptions for people who have managed to hide out and ignore the rules for such a long time. Isn't that reinforcing bad behavior? Why should anyone follow the rules if special allowances will be made? I have this problem at school too. Kids cheat and slide their way through, and act so incredulous when they get caught cheating, or when they don't get A's simply for existing. I am sick to death with people who expect everything they want for nothing. Sorry about the rant. I don't usually do this, but I'm so sick of hearing about this issue.

I forgot again

2006-04-07T12:40:00.000-05:00

Yes I forgot, yet again to take the camera with me to my weekly knitting group. And the munchkin was such a ham! She sat on the floor in the center of the circle, and smiled at everyone. She's started cocking her head to the side, and nearly folding herself in half, to the side. So she performed for anyone who paid attention. And she giggled and cooed and flapped her arms. She was quite the spectacle. And I actually got a few rows done. Nothing momentous, but a few more rows than I had before. I'm currently working on the shapely tank from White Lies Designs. I'm makign it in a sinful silk blend from Lanna Grossa. I'll get pics up this weekend, I hope. It has a variegated green and cream color way, and an amazing drape. I can't wait until it's done , and it's warm here. Well that's not fair, it's 72 right now, but I know it's going to in the 40's again tomorrow. So I'm not getting too excited. Well, I should get back to my homework. The end of the semester can be a real bear.

A little late

2006-04-07T12:29:00.000-05:00

Booking Through Thursday

This week's questions were suggested by Kim.

Do you have a favorite character(s)? I adore Elizabeth Bennet.

What book/author is he/she/it from? She's from Pride and Prejudice. Austen is my favorite author.

Why do you like this person--what is it about the way he/she was written that drew you to them? I love the contrast between Lizzie and her family. She has silly sisters, and a lunatic mother. But she is smart and proud, and not afraid to be who she is. I love that in a heroine.

Is there something more you would like the author to tell you about them? After reading and rereading the novel many times, I feel as though Lizzie is a dear friend. Like most of my favorite books, I wish it hadn't ended. And there has been a rash of sequels to Pride and Prejudice, but I have yet to find one, though I own many versions, that I like as my as the original. If you're interested, the best I've found so far is called "Mr. Darcy's Daughters" by Elizabet Aston.

2006-03-30T19:10:00.000-06:00

Booking Through Thursday

Pick one of your favorite authors. Donna Tarte

What are some of your favorite books by this author The Secret History

Why do you like this author? She has an amazing vocabulary, and a very classical style. Reading her is almost like reading Austen, another favorite.

Have you read everything by this author? Why or why not? So far she only has two novels, so yes. But I read them backwards, not that they are sequential.

Loose Ends

2006-03-17T22:48:00.000-06:00

Well, with the hubby away I've been tying up loose ends, almost literally. His vest is completely finished, the munchkin's pinafore is done, and two afghan square are going out in Monday's mail. I'm back where I re-started on Eris, and much happier with this second attempt, and I just may get around to toe up sock #2. I feel very productive, and very tired. The munchkin woke up last night at 1:00 and screamed bloody murder until about 2:30. It felt much later than that though. She hasn't needed a mid-night bottle in months. I don't know what got into her. She'd better not do it tonight.
I've come away from my sister's wedding with a little wisdom. Yes I hate sewing items with a lining, and yes satin is not on my favorites list, but I do like to sew. I'm thinking the munchkin may need some cute summer clothes. I love the tanks that button in the back over little bloomer type shorts, or maybe some cute sun dresses. Hmmmmm, I may just have to go to JoAnn's.

An Austen Devote

2006-03-14T11:29:00.000-06:00

You scored as Marianne Dashwood. Most girls can relate with Marianne on a more personal level than some of Austen's other characters. She represents the emotional longings and struggles that seem to attack and bless us at the same time. Loyal to a fault, passionate for experience and life, and a bit over-emotional, Marianne matures and grows (making her so beloved).

Marianne Dashwood

75%

Elizabeth Bennet

69%

Elinor Dashwood

66%

Emma Woodhouse

59%

Jane Bennet

50%

Charlotte Lucas

34%

Lady Catherine

31%

Which Jane Austen Character are You? (For Females) Long Quiz!!!
created with QuizFarm.com

It's been so long

2006-03-13T15:51:00.000-06:00

I have been entirely to busy with my lil sis's wedding. But now it's over, and after much wailing and nashing of teeth it turned out okay. And so now I have my life back, sort of. I was off for Spring Break last week, and now I'm back to the grind. And DH's traveling season is gearing up. So lots of baby time for me. But at least I'm getting back into my groove. I hope to have FO pics by the end of the week. How ambitious! In the mean time, how about some cute.

2006-02-09T11:45:00.000-06:00

Booking Through Thursday

How many books do you usually take with you on vacation? Too many? Too few? Do you still have room to pack clothes? Iusuallt shove two into my knitting bag, but I spend too much time talking and rarely finish both.

What kind of books do you read on vacation? I usually have a stack of long awaited books that I turn to. I like to savor something that I've ben waitting for.

Do you read the same kind of books when you're on vacation as when you're at home? I usually do read the same types of stuff. But if I'm hitting a beach I try to pick a mass market paperback, so I don't feel bad if it's gets sandy or wet.

2006-02-08T21:19:00.000-06:00

Congratulations! You are Lynette Scavo, the

ex-career woman who traded the boardroom for

boredom, mixed with moments of sheer panic as

the mother of four unmanageable kids.

Which Desperate Housewife are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Chemical genius?

2006-02-06T12:09:00.000-06:00

Okay, maybe not genius, but I was feeling pretty close on Thursday. Instead of a real lab, we had a problem set in preparation for our exam today. And I was one the first ones done, with no errors. I continued to pound out the problems and today I took the exam. Would you believe that the only thing I'm not perfectly sure about is the charges on my ions. I may have mixed some up but the formulas were right. And again, I was one of the first people done. Same thing happened in Algebra on Friday, but I only got a B on that one. But it is Math, so I guess for me that's like an A+ And I'm going to get better. I will. Now one more exam, tomorrow is Art History. Guess I should start studying, huh? I'm a little behind on that one, but it is multiple choice. :)