Lovin Comfort Knits

Randomness

2012-02-02T04:40:00.000-05:00

I have so many things swimming in my head that I would like to blog about, I could spend hours here typing out all of these thoughts but those hours could be used doing so many more productive items so I will do a random list and I hope you will bear with me!!!

I am so unnerved by Susan G Koman's decision to no longer fund breast cancer screening via Planned Parenthood. The question of pro choice or pro life should not figure into being pro active over a hideous disease. I will find other breast cancer charities to support.
Spyware--hate it, and it is only going to get worse with all of these changes that the internet bills are coming
Fast Start---a new search engine that uses Google but will not trace the google search back to you
my knitting goals for the new year---I met some for January and I failed at some, I did make something from a book, i used the Big Book of Knitted Monsters, and Cheryl Oberles
Folk shawls, I made some free patterns including hearts, the Shawl KAL and Lacy Lush Mitts and the packers hat with the attached beard, I bought a few new patterns and knit them including the Storm Fir Shawl ---I did knit a second Storm Fir with a stockinette body so that is my own version, not really complex but it is early in the year. I did start something just for me but I didn't finish it in Me-Uary so now it will go to Finish Up February.
I somewhat stuck with my yarn budget, the only yarn I actually spent dollars on were 2 skeins of DDDyeworks and some yarn at Michaels.
I am bored, bored with everything, the colors of the walls in my apartments, the teas I drink, the television Tom watches, the weather which has been wonderful but still boring. The foods I eat and the car I drive. I see no changes in sight but what can you do---just go with the flow!!
My prayer list is way to long---I wish all the people I am praying for would feel better , that I knew it was working!

That is enough of my whining for the day ----hope yours is everything you want and/or need it to be

KNIT ON!!!

Birthday Wishes!

2012-02-01T09:30:00.002-05:00

to our daughter in Alabama Debb!!

Hope your day is perfect in everyway!!!!!

KNIT ON!!

this and that

2012-01-31T09:50:00.002-05:00

Is this not the greatest picture ever, and that little girl is so high up in the air, her daddy is 6'4" tall, I have to frame this one, I love it!!

Lots of knitting but none of it is shareable at the moment, with 2 swaps and several birthdays things must stay under wraps a little longer.

Today's Ten on Tuesday is Ten Favorite Superbowl foods but I am not dwelling on food these days (although I am meeting Ria in less then 2 hours for brunch). I remember when the kids were in grade school I spent every super bowl sunday making subs and more subs for a fund raiser our PTA did, It was great fun and I remember smelling like a deli for days. I also made a great salsa once from Regis and Kathy Lee's cook book back in the early 90's---the GIANT's won that year.

KNIT ON Friends!!!!

2012-01-30T14:26:00.002-05:00

Another unplanned vacation day----- busy running with tommo--hopefully have time tomorrow!!!

KNIT ON!!!

Friday Fill-Ins

2012-01-27T12:22:00.002-05:00

1. It's time to _get this post finished before Optimum comes and disables my cable in an attempt to fix it____.
2. _Bring chocolate chip cookies or some donuts____ ... and don't forget the __tea_!
3. I'm trying to __be good about my diet but gosh its hard when you are stressed___.
4. "_???????____", that was the last funny comment I received.
5. Please send _lovely yarns for me to play with____.
6. When it comes to Pinterest, Words with Friends, and Knitting I won't quit_____ cause I'm in it for the long haul.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to ___quiet time with me and my needles__, tomorrow my plans include a few errands and then not much_____ and Sunday, I want to _maybe visit my local sister who I still haven't seen for Christmas yet____!

KNIT ON!!!

More grandkid shots!

2012-01-26T04:31:00.001-05:00

HELP Please go to this site and do something for these children and hug the healthy children in your lives.

Also keep a fellow raveler and reader of this blog in your prayers. She had devestating health news this week and is in need of prayerful support. God will know!!

Tom is home today and I don't know what we will do with the day ----this is twice this week, no work no pay no pay no play, so we shall have to be imaginative, although I always have knitting and he always has wedding favors to craft.

Have a great day and Knit ON!!!!

This is THursday's post but it posted early ----hmmmmmm

2 FO's 3 WIP

2012-01-25T12:17:00.005-05:00

COco the Giants Mascot made in Sugar and Cream for my son in law Johnny

Storm Fir lace edged stockinette shawl made from Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick
Winter Comfort Shawl in Progress---Filigrano Lace
Teeny Tiny crocheted hearts!
The Mystery Shawl KAL clue One---lots of sock yarns and kauni effectgarten

KNIT ON!!!

Ten on Tuesday---HMMMMMMMM

2012-01-23T23:11:00.005-05:00

Margaux and her granddad and daddy

Seems lately like life is full of paradoxes, incongruities and things that just make you go hmmmmm

I was put on a high potency antibiotic last week for Strep throat==and now I have a sinus infection which is obviously unaffected by the medication
Paula Deen is being called a hypocrite---I have never heard her say eat this, eat it all and you will be healthy forever. Heck folks no one is holding a gun to your head, we still control what we put in our mouth
Tom has a theory about all of those little cards we use now at the grocers and the drug store and everywhere else, its just another way for Big Brother to keep tabs on us and what we are doing, they make sure we use them by sweetening the deal with savings gifts etc.
We have way too much time on our hands, our ever increasingly efficient world has just left us with way to much time to cause trouble, like sticking our nose in everyone Else's business, back when everyone worked hard and didn't have time saving conveniences you worried about you and yours and not whether Heidi Klum and Seal have broken up.
Another example of this is Tom had a saying on the back of his truck "Sometimes its a bitch, sometimes its a breeze", I think he has put that on almost every truck he ever owned. It was suggested to him recently by his employer that he remove it because customers were offended by it when they had to explain it to their younger children.
When someone is going through a rough time, and you don't want to be a bother but are there for them if you are needed is obviously not the appropriate way to handle things. I have been ostracized because I wasn't in their face everyday making a pest of myself but left a message I was available to help.
A particularly weird hmmmm moment was the thank you follow up called Tom received on the recent purchase of his new Ford Van (he hasn't bought a new one in 3 years and won't be either).
I can sit and design lace shawls, I can knit miniature toys and yet 3 times today I ripped out a garter stitch shawl because I could not seem to absorb the directions
when we were in school unless you were one of the really cool kids you never wanted to be copied or imitated, but I get a vicious thrill every time I realize some repinned one of my Pins on Pinterest.
And truly the best one of all---no matter what they do, what they put us through, no matter how many tears we shed we always LOVE our children.

What drives you a little crazy these days?
The other pictures are sweet heart Meredith and her aunt jeannie, our darling Gwen and fabulous Jakie braiding my hair. We met them for lunch on Sunday and enjoyed every single second!

KNIT ON!!!

vacation day!

2012-01-23T14:32:00.002-05:00

back tomorrow with lots of news

KNIT ON!

Year of the Dragon Swap Goodies!

2012-01-21T13:02:00.002-05:00

Kathyb had a small swap with only a few items needed, to commemorate 2012 the Year of the Dragon
Sock Yarn, A dragon pattern and something for the dragon skin we all eperience this time of year (or if you are in menopause like me 366 days a year) .

She teamed me up with Leslie who is a friend of hers in her hometown but is blogless. We sent our packages to each other this week, and sent almost similar colored yarns, she also included some stitch markers she made in the color of dragon flames and some cards to include in my knitted gifts.

Thank you Leslie---I love everything you sent and Kathy you are a great swap facilitator. I was burnt recently on several swaps but never on ones that you sponsor!!!

KNIT ON!!

Hello!

2012-01-20T10:38:00.003-05:00

Hello! I am Cochran---The Canister Monster, I believe on Sunday I am going to live with one of Grace's grandchildren, she made me from yarn that Ria gave her just for monster making!

Hello, I am a tease for a swap Grace is in --- nothing much to tell except the stitches are so tiny!

Hello, we are Moe and Larry---we too are destined to go to Grace's grandchildren. We are made from Sugar and Cream Cotton and we are soft!!!!

Hello, we have been sitting here on the coffee table all week
We are destined to be part of a MKAL or mystery knit along starting on Monday in the gurls of fresh purls forum on Ravelry--this will be Grace's 4th shawl in Progress and we sort of kinda know that tomorrow during the snow storm she will be knitting another Storm Fir Shawl (also for Charity) in Blue Thick and Quick Wool Ease!

Grace here, sometimes I just have to let my knitting do the talking!!!
Have you listened to your knitting lately?

KNIT ON!!!

Just a few of my favorite Pins from Pinterest!

2012-01-19T15:10:00.004-05:00

KNIT ON!!!

Wednesday FO and WIP

2012-01-18T06:06:00.003-05:00

Just two of the stuffies I finished this week---above is Charlene Dot's sister who went to live with a little boy Charles who has Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy and below is Charlene and Dot's cousin Charlotte.
MY Works in Progress for this wednesday include a plethora of shawls (at least 3), my Sky Scarf and several more stuffies. I printed out a 26 page pattern but its a surprise so more later!!!!

KNIT ON!

Ten on Tuesday

2012-01-17T12:18:00.003-05:00

Ten Reasons I Hate to Get the Mail

It isn't delivered to the door, I have to go to a central box with a key
It is mostly advertisements
The rest is mostly bills
Except for birthdays and christmas there are never anything personal in there and even birthdays and Christmas are lean any more
The mail people have total disrespect for how they put things in the box and it is crumpled and ripped
The exciting stuff packages etc are delivered to the door
If it is raining when they fill the box everything gets drenched
Our central location is not conducive to my mobility issues
I will swear they mail the bills the day after they are due so they can charge late fees
The envelopes that look so official are junk and the ones that look friendly are bad news!

KNIT ON!!!!

Shawl in a Day KNITTED!

2012-01-16T09:44:00.002-05:00

It is not blocked but it still has a certain loveliness to it. It is called Storm Fir Shawl and is from the Knit in A DAY Collection and yes it did take one day---I started it Saturday and finished Saturday night. There are 62 rows all written or Charted out and it is really easy to do with bulky yarn (bernat roving) and size 11 needles. I used a size 13 for the bind off. I plan to do another with Thick and Quick Wool Ease from Lion Brand too, just because I have the yarn and it was that easy to do. Blocked it will be about 76 by 33.
Still fighting the good fight with the strep, Must go out in this frigid cold and pick up the antibiotic which I could not start until today due to drug interactions--meanwhile the withdrawal from the other drug just about took away my sanity yesterday with constant hot and cold flashes. They seem to have ebbed now, finally so I guess I will go out and get this done!!! Have a great day---KNIT ON!!!

Friday Fill-Ins

2012-01-13T09:23:00.004-05:00

1. When I looked out the window this morning ___the ice that was pelting earlier had stopped__.
2. _Buying into the stock market, the actual way to do it ____ doesn't make sense to me.
3. Remind me _when your birthday is again____.
4. _KNITTING____ is something I love to do!
5. TP is _toilet paper and PT is paper towels____.
6. I cleaned the refrigerator recently and I found __a dehydrated lime___.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _watching a movie while I knit____, tomorrow my plans include _laying low and getting over this cold____ and Sunday, I want to _watch more football____!

Still a bit punky--Tom thinks it is hormones---I had a big weight loss this week and that usually does set them off. oh well I will still take it easy for a couple of days!!

KNIT ON!!!

ACHOOOOOOOO

2012-01-12T16:11:00.005-05:00

I have been computerless all day long, it is back now, but I appear to be under the weather and am taking to my comfy bed with hot tea and my Kindle, hopefully back tomorrow!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

some Knitting!

2012-01-11T05:43:00.002-05:00

Classic Elite lush lacy mitts knit in dancing dog dyeworks fingering weight yarn Proud as a Peacock, super easy, need buttons yet but I like them!
THe fyberspates Mrs Miracle scarf---again very easy, it has two different lace patterns but I just did the first one which is the same row over and over again. It needs blocking but I really think it came out pretty
The beginnings of my Feather and Fan wrap---doesn't it look super soft? Elann Peruvian Pure Alpaca and size 10 needles.

I have other things in the works too but they are for swaps and gifts so I can't share them here!!!

KNIT ON!!!

Ten on Tuesday

2012-01-10T11:19:00.004-05:00

Ten Favorite Soups!!!

we always eat homemade---tom is an anti-additive, preservative etc kinda guy so its scratch or it none!

Roasted Root Vegetable Soup---what ever looks good, onions carrots, garlic sweet potato, white potato, parsnip, etc.
Butternut Squash Soup---also roasted to start, and dolloped with a sourcream sage concoction
My sister Christine's 7 Onion Soup--topped with Onion Marmalade
Roasted Tomato Soup---just heavenly with a sourdough grilled cheese
Chili--we consider it a stoup---lately served in a roasted sugar pumpkin it is wonderful!
Cream of Cauliflower soup---yes he roasts this too, and its carmelized and sweet and just yummy
Chicken Noodle Soup _-or Turkey or Rice, same basic ingredients---he roasts the bones with aromatics and then simmers them in liquid to create the broth. OMG
Cream of Mushroom Soup---using as many mushrooms that look good as he can get, savory and soothing in one little bowl
Split Pea soup----the longer it slow simmers the more flavorful it gets, a truly lovely soup
Pasta Fagioli---his newest soup to his collection but outstanding, now if they would make gluten free ditalini we could have it a bit more often!!!

NOW I want soup for dinner---it is laundry night and the pizza place next to the laundromat makes an excellent Fagioli made to order so maybe we will get that as take out!!!!

More Knitting posts to come!!!

KNIT ON!

WHat a great weekened!!!

2012-01-09T11:36:00.002-05:00

wow did I oversleep this morning---then i went to run errands and am just now settling down with the computer, but my brain is scattered thinking of all I have to accomplish today.

First we had a fantastic weekend at the best family-owned Bed and Breakfast in CT. Steep Hollow, as far as I know they don't have lots of guests but when ever we stay there my dear sister and Brother in law treat us like top paying guests. They feed us, entertain us (The red light tour), Make us laugh (that stupid little Keurig) and shower us with gifts. Even our bedroom is done up in holiday decor and comes with towels, and blankets, water and a basket to take home of little goodies. I did forget my camera this weekend but we had such a wonderful time. We went to a restaurant in Simsbury CT where the hostess fawned all over my BIL Scott and forgot the rest of us were there. THe food there was outrageously good and if you have never had smoked gouda on a burger you must try it. Then Scott fixed a very light dinner of Tyler Florence's Ultimate Asian Chicken Salad and a grape and rosemary foccacia with cheesey dipping sauce. Christine made to Pinterest desserts----Paula Deens Gingerbread Spoon Bread in the crock pot and the Peanut Butter Cup cheese ball served with sweet crackers. so so good. We awoke at 8:30 to the smell of Pinterest French Puffs (or dirt bombs) bacon, eggs, pancakes with either blueberries or chocolate chips, Pinterest's rainbow fruit salad and Keurig coffees or Tazo Joy Tea. It was all so good. Their home was still decorated for Christmas and the 59 degree weather was just wonderfulled. One of their fur babies Lappy the bichon, must have hurt himself while we were out because he was quite miserable and appeared to be in pain, even the other pup Missie the Maltese was worried. I just wish we had a place big enough to reciprocate their wonderful hospitality, thank you Sis from the bottom of our hearts!

Our beloved Steelers, well lets just say we will see them in September, this is my last monster honoring them from last weeks win, hopefully more to come next year. Tom says he is done with football for this year but now I will root for the Giants with all of my heart!!! GO BIG BLUE

The trip to Christine is just shy of 2 hours, so I had lots of knitting time and started the Feather and Fan shawl that Kathy B and her friends are doing. I am using Elann Peruvian Alpaca from stash in a very soft grey and instead of knitting the 2nd purl row I am purling it so mine does not have the ridge. I cast on 64 stitches on size 10 needles and am using 5 on each side for a border. I was using a circular all weekend but when I got home I changed it to straights, the unused cord of the circular is driving me totally bonkers.

And I did finish the hat and scarf last week but more on them in upcoming posts. Have a very knitty day

KNIT ON

First Friday of the New Year

2012-01-06T11:22:00.004-05:00

I truly never thought I would embrace online banking, but lately the days creep up so quickly and I realize that something is due that day or the day after. I guess I am being dragged into the 21st century after all

After 3 days of grey I get to knit blue for my scarf today, I also must knit a carrot nose for my new snowwoman Squalla---I for some unknown reason totally forgot, then I will finish the Bearded Toque I am making for DD#2's friend. If time allows for the day I will also hopefully finish up the Mrs. Miracle scarf in the beautiful Fyberspates---this yarn is so drapey perfect for shawls and scarfs. What a pleasure to knit with.

I am designing a shawl called Winter Comfort, my current knitting of a free pattern is all of the above, I still need to decide on a book pattern and one to buy---had anyone seen Brooklyn Tweeds
new booklet, the patterns are lovely Wool People Volume 2 I especially love Winnowing, and Spruce Forest.

My friend Denise's husband will have surgery on Monday, they hope--his brain is still very swollen. I feel so badly for her, she has had so much loss in her life in recent years.

My son and his family and his in-laws leave this afternoon for the yearly sojourn to the land of Mickey and Minnie, Tom and I are the only ones in our family who have never been. I hope they have a wonderful safe trip and send this grandmother lots of pictures.

We are headed to CT and then on Sunday on the way home we will stop in Yonkers and see his folks. Hope your weekend is fantastic!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Good Morning!

2012-01-05T09:49:00.003-05:00

This is the start of my Sky Scarf, today's rows will also be grey----it can be done for as long as you like--until the length you like but the general premise is all 365 days. Now this Sunday I will wake up in CT and Last Sunday was Virginia so that is the sky color there.

Cable guy is coming again today---lets hope it gets resolved although at breakfast this morning several others were saying they too are having the same problems and its been ongoing for months. We all have the triple play bundle. and only loose the internet and the phone, the tv is always fine.

My very good waitress friend Denise is in need of serious prayers. Her brand new husband of 9 weeks had a massive stroke and is not improving. He is only 59 and we have been worried about his dad for several months so this appears to have come out of the blue.

Finished a Rachel Herron book this morning--Wishes and Stitches, it was very good --a bit risque but a fun read with a great twist. At the end of the book is a wonderful Romi Hill Shawl pattern. Eliza's Wedding Shawl

It too will go in my once again expanding queue!

OFF to make the ever present pot of tea----KNIT ON!!!!

Watch the SKY!

2012-01-04T10:35:00.003-05:00

One of the things I am knitting this year (well that is the plan anyway) is the SKY Scarf. my computer is acting up again so I may not be able to get in all the links and pictures I want --yes even this new modem is not working correctly.WHen I just called the cable company again a more direct number that the service rep gave me I sounded like a total idiot in my message. Hung up and tried it again, I will be totally lucky if they ever call me back at all.

anyway back to the Sky Scarf, You assemble yarns that are sky colors---blues whites greys etc. Every morning you look at the sky and knit 2 rows in the colors that closely represent what you are seeing. Today the sky was totally grey so my color for today will be grey. yesterday it was blue with white clouds, so I did a blend of blue and white.

For my scarf I am using worsted weight or fingering doubled, in a collection of various stash yarns (all wools) I am using size 8 needles and I cast on 32 stitches which gave me about 6 inch width. Who truly knows if I will keep up with it but it will be fun to try
This is the picture from the free pattern. It is still early in the year, why not give it a try?

KNIT ON

New Year New Goals

2012-01-03T11:11:00.003-05:00

Bee Sweet 60 stitch cowl from Unwind Yarn SHop
used Debbie Bliss Cashmere Astrakhan doubled and size 10 needles

Crocheted Queen ANne's Lace Scarf
Knit Picks Palette Doubled

My knitting goals for 2012 are a bit varied so todays Ten on Tuesday will be all about them

For every shawl pattern I knit beginning this year, I will design one in a similar vein---so if I did Multnomah I would do one with a ruffle of my own
I want to knit 12 patterns free from Ravelry,
12 patterns from the books I own,
12 patterns I buy from knitting sources
design 12 of my own
January will stand as Me-uary with the exception of one commission I must get going on
THis is a-none knitting knitting goal, I will not knit Christmas gifts this year. I will knit commissioned ones and use the money I make towards Christmas
I will try to join more knitting contests
I will continue to knit and crochet for Hope Lodge and Other Charities
I will sent a monthly yarn budget and TRY to stick to it.

Demalangi--in Posh Yarns Emily color Klee---bottom up shawl and fun knit! Needs blocking!!!

Did you set any knitting goals for this year?

KNIT ON!

we are back!

2012-01-02T17:15:00.003-05:00

Wow its been awhile since I posted. This post will probably be scattered and make little sense but I will try and sum up what has been going on.

Christmas was Christmas---it wasn't the best ever, I truly feel like everyone was underwhelmed with their gifts so that brought me down a little, then part of the family was missing, and even though I know whey were happy and having a wonderful time I was down again because I was not part of all of it.

Then I was busy making all of the final arrangements for the trip to Alabama. We left very early on Thursday and drove until 6 at night, stopping in Kingsport TN----we stopped at a Cracker Barrel in Frackville PA, where there are tons of wind turbines, for breakfast. Then we went to a diner at a Truck Stop for lunch and had KFC for dinner in our room. Up the next morning and on the road again, it was Cracker Barrel for lunch in Morristown TN and then Hardees in Gurly AL for lunch-we got to Debb's apartment in Athens by 2 and Chad arrived and the van was unpacked in record time. Her place is great and i still can't get over it is only 330$ a month. THat night we went to Catfish Cabin for dinner with Debb and Chad.The Country Hearth Motel was filthy and the damn manager put the charge through when I wanted to pay cash and would not issue a refund, so tomorrow I have to go salvage my poor checking account.

Saturday morning we met Debb and Chad for breakfast at the Athen's Cracker Barrel and said our good byes I truly wish her nothing but happiness, I hope she finds a wonderful job she really likes and enjoys fixing up her new home. But even at 35 it is hard to say goodbye. EVERYONE we met was so nice and sweet, offering to help etc. so different from the hustle and bustle her.

we left there and stopped for lunch at GUESS---a Cracker barrel outside of Knoxsville TN, then we got on the road again stopping New Years EVE at a Days Inn in Lexington VA. We had the worst meal ever at a T/A truck stop up the road (the only place open) and were sound a sleep long before midnight. Next morning at 5 AM we were on the road again, and stopped for breakfast at a Cracker Barrel in West Virginia. We were home by 12:30 and hoped to nap but that just didn't happen.

Today Christmas was put away for another year, and who knows what next year will bring.

While we were away my knitting included the Delamangie shawl
and finished one of my own design. I started the Mrs Miracle Scarf but was not happy with it so I am doing the scarf in the first lace pattern all the way through. I also started another shawl of my own design---I have 3 stuffies to finish this week too!

I hope everyone is well, Tom's mother, my brother in laws Scott and Bob's mothers are all doing somewhat poorly at the moment. Hoping for speedy recoveries for them all.

KNIT ON!!!

2011-12-23T16:48:00.003-05:00

from our house to yours!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

The internet and telephone have been down again today, Tom came home from work and played with some wires so I am back in business temporarily. The service guy is coming tomorrow between 2-5, I do get more knitting done that way!!!

Well a busy weekend is ahead and next week posts may be scattered as I prepare for our trip to Alabama.

Please all have a safe and healthy holiday what ever you are celebrating, for me its Christmas and I am just sorry to see the end is in sight, I love all the lead = in too this holiday and hate the emptiness after.

May Santa fulfill all of your yarny dreams!!! KNIT ON!!!

the cookie post

2011-12-22T10:58:00.005-05:00

First full day of winter----no snow here temps in the upper 50's and the AC is on because inside temps without the oven on are already in the 70's!

It is finally cookie baking day----just one small batch of each cookie I make, enough for tasting

A recipe for Soda Cracker Candy/Cookies that is fabulous---I have made them for years and years

35 to 40 soda crackers
1 cup butter, cubed
1 cup packed brown sugar
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1-1/2 cups coarsely chopped walnuts

Directions

Line a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan with foil and coat with
cooking spray. Place crackers in rows on foil. In a saucepan, melt
butter; add the brown sugar and bring to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes.
Pour over crackers and spread until completely covered. Bake at
350° for 5 minutes (crackers will float). Remove from the oven.
Turn oven off. Sprinkle chocolate chips and walnuts over crackers.
Return to the oven until chocolate is melted, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove from the oven; using a greased spatula, press walnuts into
chocolate. Cut into 1 in. squares while warm. Cool completely;
remove candy from foil. Yield: about 5 dozen.

ORANGE PECAN DATE BARS WITH FROSTING
(one of my all time favorites)

Ingredients

3/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup water
1 (8 ounce) package chopped pitted dates
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup orange juice
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 cup chopped pecans
3 cups confectioners' sugar
1/3 cup butter, softened
1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 1/2 tablespoons orange juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 10x15 inch jellyroll pan.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, 1/2 cup butter, water and dates. Cook, stirring frequently until dates have softened and the mixture is well blended. Remove from heat. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; stir into the date mixture, then mix in the 1/4 cup orange juice, milk, e ggs and 1 tablespoon orange zest. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. To make the frosting, combine the confectioners' sugar, 1/3 cup butter, cream cheese and orange zest. Beat until smooth. Gradually mix in the remaining orange juice a tablespoon at a time until the icing is spreadable. Spread over the bars when cool. Cut into squares.

PECAN CRESCENTS
INGREDIENTS
1 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped pecans
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (170 degrees C).
Cream butter or margarine, gradually adding confectioners' sugar and salt. Cream until light and fluffy.
Stir in pecans and vanilla. Add flour gradually. Mix well. Shape dough into crescents using a teaspoon full for each crescent. Place on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake 15-30 minutes. Do not brown. Let cool slightly, then roll cookies in additional confectioners' sugar.

Been crocheting this week---finished 2 half square shawls and 2 Queen Anne's Lace Scarves, knitted a cowl/snood/hood for me and working on a knitted ruffled scarf.

I say this every year and I mean it when I say it but then I don't follow through, next year I am not knitting gifts---I will knit for others though and take the money I make and buy gifts. At least it sounds like a good plan!!!

KNIT ON!!!

2011-12-21T02:17:00.000-05:00

A Knitter's Night before Christmas

taken from needle notes blog--thanks

'Twas the night before Christmas and all around me
was unfinished knitting not under the tree.
The stockings weren't hung by the chimney with care
'cause the heels and toes had not a stitch there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
but I had not finished the caps for their heads.
Dad was asleep; he was no help at all,
and the sweater for him was six inches too small.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I put down my needlesto see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
tripped over my yarn and fell with a crash.

The tangle of yarn that lay deep as the snow
reminded me how much I still had to go.
Out on my lawn, I heard such a noise,
I thought it would wake both Dad and the boys.

And although I was tired, my brain a bit thick,
I knew in a moment it must be Saint Nick!
What I heard then left me somewhat perplexed-ed,
for not a name I heard was what I expected.

"Move Ashford; move Lopi; move Addie & Clover;
move Reynolds; move Starmore; and Noro - move over!"
"Paton, don't circle round, stay in the line.
Come now, you sheep, you'll work out just fine!

I know this is hard being just your first year,
I'd hate to go back to eight tiny reindeer.
I peered over the sill; what I saw was amazing,
eight woolly sheep on my lawn all a 'grazing.

And then, in a twinkle, I heard at my door
Santa's coming across the porch floor.
I rose from my knees and got back on my feet,
and as I turned round, Saint Nick I did meet.

He was dressed all in wool from his head to his toes
and his cloths were hand knit from above to below.
A bright Fair Isle sweater he wore on his back,
and his toys were all stuffed in a aran knit sack.

His cap was a wonder of bobbles and lace,
a beautiful frame for his rosy red face.
The scarf round his neck could have streached for a mile,
and the socks peeking over his boots were Argyle.

The backs of his mittens bore an intricate cable,
and suddenly on one I spied a small label.
SC was the duplicate stitch on the cuff,
and I asked "Hay Nick, did you knit all this stuff?

He poudly replied "Ho-ho-ho, yes I did.
I learned how to knit when Iwas a kid."
He was chubby and plump, a quite well-dressed old man,
and I laughed to myself for I'd thought of a plan.

I flashed him a grin and jumped in the air,
the next thing he knew he was tied to a chair.
He spoke not a word, but looked in his lap
where I'd laid my needles and yarn for a cap.

He quickly began knitting, first one cap then two;
for the first time Ithought I might really get through.
He put heels on the stockings and toes on some socks
while I sat back drinking scotch on the rocks!!

So quickly, like magic his needles they flew,
that he was all finished byquarter to two.
He sprang for his sleigh when I let him go free,
and over his shoulder he looked back at me.

And I heard him exclaim as he sailed past the moon
"Next year start your knitting some time around June!"

Christmas from the Watts' family!

2011-12-20T05:36:00.003-05:00

my new crochet project, the Queen Ann lace scarf---the picture here is when I started sitting at the computer viewing the tutorial, in another hour and half or so it was finished, quick easy and fun---I wound some Dark Green knit Picks palette doubled to make another one for me.

Tom and Darcy Watts and their daughters Alora and Athena sent Tom and I a wonderful Christmas box full of goodies. The girls sent lots of art work and school papers including dragons which are a very big deal here at the Yaskovic house.
Tom also got some candy canes and hot cocoa mix, and I got a cupcake necklace and christmas tree ornament made by Darcy and a bracelet made by Alora and a butterfly ring from Athena. The nail files, rubberband ball, adorable santa bag and beloved Malabrigo rounded out the package. The bead work on the cupcake necklace is awesome and the tree ornament will go right on my friendship tree.

It is wonderful to receive Christmas surprises and I will reciprocate in the new year!!

Our trip to Alabama is not until the 29th but thank you for all the well wishes for a safe trip. I wish we had more time to visit with our southern friends but since Tom can't take more then two days off from work it is 2 days down and 2 days back, hopefully when we go back for a visit we can stay longer and meet up with our blog buddies and fellow Ravelers!

This morning I will meet Ria for breakfast. Her team (49ers) beat mine(Steelers) last night but Big Ben was hurting so it is all good!!!!

KNIT ON

Brief update!

2011-12-19T14:43:00.005-05:00

beautiful yarn and stitch markers
a gift from my friend Sylvia across the pond!!!

everything but christmas knitting is being done---I quit CK with one project unfinished but I am giving it serious rethinking anyway---just not what I want to do, so eventually I will finish it and donate it, and start something else new and exciting for the person it was intended for.

I finished my Pi---I crocheted 2 triangle shawls, one for my utility type shawl, one for charity, i am almost finished Undine 2 rows to go, I am planning my moving--long car trip knitting. we will be on the road about 35 hours down and back so I have to bring a lot because he will never let me drive, and I don't drive his truck anyway

made for Susan of dangercrafts

I do have a commission to do in january, and my queue is filling with ideas. I printed out 2 shawls today and a scarf, and I have a 4th shawl I am seriously contemplating. They can't be too involved so I can just knit and not be fussing with patterns.

Have a productive week!!!

KNIT ON

Let's party!

2011-12-18T11:10:00.003-05:00

Debb's Going Away party--yesterday---our loss is Alabama's gain!!! It was a fun party with 7 of the most well behaved children ever---in a tiny one bedroom apartment, plenty of great food (everyone brought something to share) and lots of great conversation!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

overwhelmed and over wrought

2011-12-16T12:05:00.001-05:00

sorry life is getting in the way---no post today More photo of margaux instead!

i am back

2011-12-15T15:26:00.004-05:00

so sorry that once again I was absent. had no internet or telephone but had cable so it Had to be the modem box, sure enough the most delightful techie from Optimum came at noon and flirted the half hour he was here away with me but definitely put me back at my computer. I wish all service people could be as much fun as he was---harmless but happy --i wished I had had a chance to bake Christmas cookies to give him some

yesterday debb and I spent the entire day wrapping 11 gifts for my son's family, 9 gifts for each of the daughters 7 for future son in law, 2 for Debb's fella's family, 10 for nieces, 10 for assorted other family members, 20 for wait staff at 3 different restaurants, 6 for friends' children, one for my friend, 4 for Tom's helper and 9 for Tom. I had to get it done before the party Saturday so there was no danger of anything being seen unwrapped. Of which approx 60 were knit or crocheted by moi!

We have 24 folks coming for Debb's farewell bash--8 of them children, and have I mentioned we live in tiny apartment, but it is so wonderful that they all do want to come and wish her well on her move. Tomorrow I will shop for food, and do some more housekeeping. We planned the party for early in the day so out of staters could travel easilier. No snow is predicted, looks like it will not be a white Christmas again this year.

I finished two shawls this week Newmans Pi, and Zippity do the only alphabet letter not covered is U and that is Undine and is on the needles as we speak, so it looks like I will accomplish that goal too---the only Christmas knitting that got tanked is a blanket I am not at all happy with, so back to the drawing board on that one but I don't think it will happen before Christmas.

KNIT ON!

Shotsie christmas Party!

2011-12-13T11:23:00.003-05:00

The annual Shotsie's tattoo christmas party was held Sunday afternoon----a great time was had by all, we had our evil santa swap and lots of great food. The time flew by and it was time to go get Debb at the airport. She gave notice at her job yesterday which went well, they figured it was coming with all of the trips she has been taking to Alabama so no one was totally surprised.

Today I will start wrapping, she will help me tomorrow with the rest, this Saturday we have a going away gathering planned for her in the afternoon. Mostly family---even though she will be back in May for Jeannie's wedding. Tom needs to make arrangements to have his van serviced Saturday since that is what he will be using to move her down and its the last available saturday before Christmas and the big move.

KNIT ON!!!

New baby knits!

2011-12-12T12:12:00.001-05:00

What I have been knitting for Margaux!!!! She has many many relatives who knit so she is going to be quite the yarny dressed baby!!!

KNIT ON

More photos of my Grands

2011-12-11T05:27:00.000-05:00

Gwendolyn 9 Jake 6 Margaux 10 days, and Meredith 7

KNIT ON!!!

Happy Birthday Robert!

2011-12-10T08:42:00.002-05:00

Today is Our Son Robert's Birthday==

he received his gift 6 weeks ago and finally feels safe announcing it

His new baby daughter
My new granddaughter

Margaux Violet
6lbs 13 oz

Congrats to Rob Kate Gwen Meredith and Jake for the beautiful addition to the family

MOre pictures coming soon

KNIT ON!!!!

Finished Objects

2011-12-09T02:15:00.001-05:00

doggy sweater for a friends chihuahua
he is a steelers fan too

my simple crocheted Christmas scarf

a knock off of scarf Wink I call Twink made from Bernat ReallyBig and #35 needles

Little baby girl turban hat

fornicating deer hat!

a lot going on, so blogging has not been a priority right now, thanks to all who have been concerned. That and TOMMO being so sick I have had my hands full!!!

KNIT ON

Swaps and Fill Ins

2011-12-02T05:25:00.007-05:00

My final swap package for the year arrived yesterday---this one is from Lemcm88 and the Dancing Dog Dyeworks Swap==the theme was minis or ornaments---and I am thrilled with the little elf and tree that Lauren sent to me, she also included lots of gift tags, some chocolate for Tom, puppy snips. some Christmas tree brads, candy canes and stickers. A great package that had to be shipped in the smallest USPS priority box, she did a wonderful job.

the flowers are from our daughter and her fiance, very sweet of them!!!

Friday Fill-Ins
1. One of my favorite things about December __is it starts with our anniversary and ends with our son's___.

2. __The collection is growing and consists of hand knit___ ornament(s)!

3. This is what I'm hoping for today/tonight: __to get some wrapping and decorating done___.

4. _If you came for tea wouldn't you wonder how I handle the ____ noise?

5. Ooh, a _gingerbread exhibition starts in Morristown tomorrow, of unusual structures made from the spicy cookie dough____.

6. _Christmas bells are____ ringing!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _my 3 hours of down time____, tomorrow my plans include _decorating I hope and dinner out with my sister Joanne and her husband____ and Sunday, I want to _knit and watch football____!

The last hat--the fornicating deer hat---should come off the needles today or tomorrow, after that if I make any more gifts they will be bonuses. I really can't wait to start a new shawl and to finish a few that I have started!!!!

Have a great weekend

KNIT ON!!!

December 1st 2011

2011-12-01T04:27:00.001-05:00

Back in the early fall--the Dangercraft group on Rav had a swap===my partner flaked on me, after I sent her three monsters, and a box of goodies, so I was assigned and Angel--MochaKitty, and this is what she sent me!!! Love my new Tony monster and all the other sweet things she included!!
Jeannie emailed me yesterday asking me if I still had my wedding veil and I said, sadly no! It was a very long Mantilla style veil edged in lace and all tulle but it was destroyed during the reception. She was sad because she wanted to use the lace on it to wrap the handle of her bouquet---I was like That I HAVE, I saved it hoping one day someone would want to use it when they got married, well there is enough there for her, Debb and all the granddaughters toO!
THis is the Rockefeller Christmas tree. I miss so much seeing it in person but It was fun to watch! I actually enjoyed the Bieber and Carey Christmas video "Baby All I Want for Christmas Is You"

And Speaking of babies and wanting---I want to wish my dear sweet master blocker a happy 38th wedding anniversary!!!! It still feels like yesterday!!!! Love You Baby with all my heart!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Little Knits and Me!

2011-11-30T05:53:00.004-05:00

some exciting knitting news, Little Knits in Seattle WA has published one of my patterns. If you are on Ravelry you can go HERE to see some info!Or directly to Little Knits to order the pattern and the yarn!another Rowan scarf made with their Creation yarn--I love working with this stuff, the scarf takes less then an hour to knit

Jared Flood's Turn a Square hat---I have made several of these and not thrilled with the ribbed band at the bottom, last night I tried knitting that last, using provisional cast on and binding off tighter--its a bit better but not perfect.

and another little decoration I made thanks to my new found time suck--Pinterest. I found the various size spools of cotton thread at Michaels, added the black thread and a few embellishments and you have a cute little crafty snowman.
Had a wonderful lunch with Ria yesterday--she brought new fingerless mitts and a gorgeous shawl she made for her soon to be new sister in law. It is full of pretty hearts and was made in Dream In Color Starry. We celebrated her recent birthday and had our usual wonderful time.

Tonight they light the Rockafeller Christmas Tree--the memories we have of taking the children there for the lighting!!!

Hope you have a great day!!!

KNIT ON!!

Ten on tuesday--favorite musicals

2011-11-29T11:12:00.003-05:00

Big River
Guys and Dolls (saw twice)
Kiss of the Spiderwoman
Blood Brothers (saw this with Petula Clark and the Cassidy Brothers)
Phantom of the Opera (never seen it on Broadway yet)
Les Miserables (saw twice)
Menopause the Musical
Moulan Rouge
The Sound of Music
Beauty and The Beast

and Number 11 because it is 2011, my all time favorite FIDDLER ON THE ROOF--I have seen every highschool adaption, every local theater, the movie countless times and it on Broadway 4 times, the only star I missed was Alfred Molina, but I did see, Harvey Feirstein, Topol--twice and Zero Mostel. It was the first show I ever say on March 18th 1970 two days before I went to Germany and met my husband. Always will be my absolute favorite!

Tomorrow more FO pictures! Today Lunch with Ria, to celebrate her recent birthday, her sister's wedding this past weekend, and her brother's wedding this coming weekend!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Don't forget my yarn sale---still happening!!! This week 1/2 off shipping!

Busy weekend lots of pictures!

2011-11-28T11:59:00.004-05:00

Tommo finished the button tree I started
with my sister, it came out wonderfully.

One of two pair of fingerless mitts I made yesterday-
-these are bulky in Loops and Threads charisma,
the other are more delicate in knit Picks Capra

This is Mendenhall---made two weeks ago but only

assembled this weekend, he is for win #7 and
since they won again last night I must make #8

Sorry so late today, still re cuping from a very filled weekend. Then there was breakfast and catching up with folks I haven't seen in more then a week and then a quick trip to michaels for more supplies, Only 3 gifts left to finish for Christmas and 2 are in progress. WOO HOO

these are Toothy Josephine, or TJ, Gort the Steelers fan, Gort the yankees
fan Charlie the Yankees Fan (they both need their patches which are on order)
and an armadillo for Debb's fella.

I have several others finished but can not post photos yet since too many gift recipients read this blog. IF I can finish soon, the one project is huge, I may actually try to finish my A-z shawls I still have 3 to go. But of course there is decorating, baking, wrapping, and lots of other activities in the next month, including #1 daughter moving to Alabama on the 27th or so, and renting a truck and packing her up and all. And there is the annual Christmas party for the tattoo shop, our son's birthday, our future son-in-laws birthday and 2 nieces. My father in law also has a birthday and our 38th wedding anniversary starts the month on Dec 1st.

How does your December look---I am glad january is low key I will need to hibernate!!!

KNIT ON!

2011-11-24T12:17:00.002-05:00

need i say more?

HAPPY THANKSGIVING
AND

WELCOME CHRISTMAS SEASON

KNIT ON!

Ten on Wednesday

2011-11-23T12:00:00.002-05:00

Ten on Wednesday

Ten Things to be thankful for

My Tommo---he exasperates the heck out of me from time to time but when push comes to shove there isn't another guy out there I would rather have loving me
My Debb---my first born, my daughter, my friend, we had rough teen years but even they were mild compared to most but we are tight now and when she goes off on the adventure of her life in another few weeks I will miss her something awful but I want only happiness for her and I believe that is in Chad's arms!
My Robert---my second born, my son, always had my back, he is the best husband and father in the world (takes after his dad) He is successful at his career and a compassionate and loving human being, he is determined and creative, I am proud to call him son.
My Jeannie---my third born, my bargain baby, also my friend=also embarking on the biggest adventure of her life, She chose well when she chose Johnny and I wish them nothing but blissful happiness
THe rest of My family---sure there are times when things aren't perfect, won't there always be? but they would be there for me in a heartbeat and who could ask for more.
My health--it is slowly improving, loosing weight is helping but I do wish I had more strength, I am working on it though and hopefully that too will improve
Tom's job---he hates it, I want more for him but I am grateful he has it when so many others don't. My biggest wish in life is to find a way to pay off our bills so that he can quit and find another job that will pay our monthly expenses. I get so upset to see him in mental and physical pain all the time but am still grateful he can do it.
My craft---it even generates a small about of income from time to time and every little bit helps, but I love the chance to be expressive and that this year it is truly solving our Christmas gift giving needs.
My home--warm (most times too warm) dry and for NJ not that expensive---a bit noisy and still messy outside (still no clean up from the snow storm) but its safe, secure and ours.
Friends--both real and cyber, people who are there to support me and encourage me, entertain me and amuse me--what would I do without all of you?

and because it 2011

11. Thanksgiving Day itself---my favorite holiday of all, the kick off to Christmas, the plentiful and flavorful food, the loved ones gathered at the table, the parade where I get to see Santa Claus, and even the dog show after---all parts of what makes the day super special, now if only the Steelers were playing, it would be out of bounds.

Wishing you all a bountiful and blessed Thanksgiving, I will not post again until Monday using the extra time to whittle away at the Christmas knitting!!!!

KNIT ON

Pretty Pictures

2011-11-22T11:04:00.003-05:00

swap box from Mostlymunchies from DangerCrafts
2 Rebecca Danger Christmas ornaments Olive and Owen
a mini reindeer
buttons, jellybeans, nailfile, lip gloss, eraser and holiday project bag!!!

Thank you Melissa--it is a great box of goodies!!!

My pay it forward gift from GMarie, when she did her blog post about these I had no idea they were for me, but i was so surprised to recieve them in the mail. They are perfect for the holiday season ---and I have a thing for trees.

I may never finish my goal of shawls from A-Z this year, but I did achieve my goal of 6 pair of socks, these were finished this month---a pair of heavy boot socks and a pair of basic men's socks, both Christmas gifts.

I have 7 monsters/stuffies finished knitting but not assembled. I am in the knitting groove, assembly will come another day!!!

KNIT ON!!!

November 21st--still getting birthday presents

2011-11-21T11:14:00.003-05:00

the most gorgeous pettable Alpaca and an its all good huge tea cup from Ria, also a hexipuff she made for me, so far the two puffs I have are both from her!

From my sister in CT, Christine, a Jim Shore Santa having tea, some notecards from WineSistersEtsy, and the mug also from there--AS I get older, I just prefer to knit by Tracey Ullman.

so cool and such welcome additions Thank you both from the bottom of my heart!

This morning I have counted all of the knitted/crocheted gifts I am giving this holiday season, Now for the most part I have been knitting the monster/critter portion all year long---but it totals over 70 gifts. Of course some family members are receiving more then one, and I do knit gifts for two restaurants staff, and a sweet waitress at another, as my way of thanking them for taking care of me all year. Of those 70 I still have 8 to finish including two very big pieces. So if my blogging becomes sporadic, be assured I am knitting!!!!

KNIT ON my dear friends, KNIT ON!!!

Friday Fill Ins

2011-11-18T04:53:00.000-05:00

And...here we go!

1. As you can see __I have more of my stash for sale, if you aren't interested maybe you could link my blog to yours___.

2. Oh and I have some big news to share with you all very _____ soon!

3. I love to buy _presents for people I love but this year is truly a hand made Christmas, with very few purchased gifts____.

4. While tom and I enjoy receiving we truly don't need any _____ gift(s).

5. What's up with __the price of Peanut Butter, I don't eat it but Tom loves it, so far I can still get the Natural PB from Smuckers at Walmart cheaply, and it wasn't any of the recently recalled product___.

6. _I always seem to have a cut on one of my ____ fingertips.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to __crafting my little heart out___, tomorrow my plans include __a lot more of the same___ and Sunday, I want to ___watch Steelers football but they have a bye this week and aren't playing__!

Weekent at Christines!

2011-11-16T05:50:00.005-05:00

By now you have heard, Mum Pops, Money Penny and I, Clarence, went to visit Mum's sister Christine, her husband Scott and daughter Lorna this weekend in Connecticut. The ride was lovely, the weather all weekend beautiful, if maybe a tad too warm on Sunday. They too had been hit very badly by the freak snowstorm, and lots of tree damage was seen. When we got there we found out that cousin Chanel was in need of surgery. Great surgeon that she is Mum was prepared with glue and a new heart patch and before we knew it Chanel was able to join us in the craft making frenzy that ensued.

Here they are making button trees, just Styrofoam, Christmas colored buttons and beaded pins, easy enough except they both need to purchase more buttons!
This is the tulle tree, this was lots of fun, we made the green one, Christine went with blue and Lorna white. the cutting of the tulle was the hardest work of all. The trees are done we just need to decorate them now! Mum says she may try making another.
MoneyPenny and Chanel are browsing the cookbook for breakfast ideas, Christine is an excellent cook and made a nice lunch of Chicken Rice Soup and a wonderful hummus spread , and German Apple Pancakes for breakfast the next morning. For dinner we went and visited Lorna at the restaurant where she is a hostess, Carlito's. We had a great evening out and came home to more crafting!

Me Mum!

This is me laying in the middle of the rag wreath that they also worked on, its a wire frame wreath, and 2 1/2 by 5 1/2 inch strips of fabric (jelly roll quilting packs) tied all over. This too needs to be finished now that we are home. Mum can't find the link Christine used for the directions but there are tons of different ways to do it according to Google.

We also worked on snowmen ornaments or gift tags, using old paint sample cards. They came out cute too.
This picture is from Pinterest but you get the idea of that they look like. WE had a great visit, but we always do in Connecticut, its always to short though!!! I know Mum would love to live there but its very expensive, gas is 50Cents a gallon more alone, let alone rents!!! Mum didn't knit for 23 hours, but the almost 2 hour car ride each way made up for it.

Those are our latest adventures, we have so many more coming up, Thanksgiving, Debb's move to Alabama, Christmas you will just have to stay tuned to see what will happen next!

KNIT ON!!!

2011-11-15T01:07:00.000-05:00

Clarence and Money Penny's adventures will wait another day. I have a wee bit of a rant on my mind and while I am waiting for sleepiness to overtake me i thought I would tap it out on the keyboard.

Everyone seems to complain about Christmas coming earlier and earlier every year---and I just don't get it and I don't agree. A few places may throw in commercials here and there, and stores will be busy putting out merchandise long before Halloween but remember this is how they make their money and most retailers count on the Christmas buying season to make their year. I can accept that, if I don't want to look at it, I will avoid it--no biggy.

I for one am guilty of turning on the Christmas Carols right after Halloween, watching Christmas movies almost all through the year, looking forward to September and October when the first new Christmas fiction hits the shelves. I love Christmas, every aspect of it.

What I hate, is the day after Christmas----its like a giant switch is turned off, Empty trees start lining the sidewalks, no radio station would think to play a Christmas tune, no one schedules Christmas concerts for between Christmas and New Years. Christmas foods are marked down to get them out of the stores, no one bakes Christmas cookies during the winter vacations, if the holiday cards are not stamped by the day before Christmas eve, don't bother sending them at all ---its hurry up and put it away. Maybe if Christmas lasted until the 6th of january like it was originally intended (the 12 days of Christmas) everyone would enjoy it more. I am guilty of it too but because no one appreciates it once the presents are all open and that is so sad.

There is even a new movie out titled New Years Eve, it looks like it will be cute. It debuts Friday, why not Christmas day? Give us something to look forward too.

I am sure there will be lots of opinions about this---in both camps, this is just how I feel --now I am going on Pinterest and look at Christmasy pictures!!!

KNIT ON!

Another FO post!

2011-11-14T11:41:00.003-05:00

This Gillian, she is a christmas gift for a little girl whose favorite color is yellow
she is from the Giles the Giraffe Pattern by Rebecca Danger, knit on size 5 needles and
using Vanna's Choice yarn!!
She is a real cutie!!!

This is Allie the Alpaca for a little girl for Christmas whose favorite color is black
I hope she likes black with sparkles--this is Red Heart Shimmer
She is also on size 5 needles and her original pattern is Zeke the Alpaca from Rebecca Danger

Yet another Rebecca Danger, this is Uma the Understanding Monster, also size 5 and knit in Knit Picks Stroll held doubled. She is a christmas gift too!

I have the pieces done for 2 sports monsters---Gort the Gym Bag Monster in Steelers Colors and one in Yankees colors, have to do another steelers mini for me since they won yesterday and Another biggy Yankee one

Oh yes I finished a pair of boot socks too--which will have to wait until the battery charges to show! They are in 2 shades of brown, slightly felted alpaca and look great---and i started a pair of regular crew. These are for 2 of the young men on my gift list.

While at my sisters this weekend my niece went through the monster book and found some others she likes so I will make her some for Christmas too!!!

Christine and I had so much fun this weekend crafting our hearts out, I actually went 23 hours without knitting a stitch, I do think that is a new record. But all that is another post so keep checking back

Clarence and Miss Money Penny went too so be prepared for them to take part in that post.!

KNIT ON!!!!!!

Friday Fill Ins!

2011-11-11T08:47:00.003-05:00

1. Turkey is _one of my favorite comfort foods____.

2. _I love almost any flavor of____ pie. (not a huge fan of pecan or key lime)

3. On and on and on we go _worrying about that which we can not change____.

4. The last time I saw _my sister was at PF Changs months ago____.

5. Can you believe __we are going to CT this weekend to see them___.
tree made by Draegonflies and gleaned from the web

6. I need a __dowel because while we are there, Christine and I are making tulle Christmas trees ___.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _spending time with my holiday knitting____, tomorrow my plans include _spending time with my sister and her family____ and Sunday, I want to _have a safe trip home, and all and all a good weekend____!

KNIT ON!!!

A few Share-able FO's

2011-11-10T08:43:00.004-05:00

Some finished objects, a Katia Lux scarf very sparkly and pretty, a snowwoman, with heart ear muffs, 2 more Alberts, only half the size so they are elves and I call them Amos and Andy, and a ribbon candy. Yesterday I stuffed Zeke the Alpaca, still have to stuff Uma the understanding monster, and Giles the Giraffe, and I started a Gort the Gymbag Monster in Steeler colors for Tom's helper John, need to make 2 more Gorts in NY Yankee colors also!

I have finished at least 4 other gifts too that I can't share on here. Knitting machines have nothing on me!

The yarn sale is going so well, thank you for everyone who helped, there are a few left and they are in the post below this one. This didn't even make a dent in my stash, My compulsive nature is going to cause me big problems some day.

I am sitting here this morning still waiting for maintenance to show up---my bedroom window needs the gizmos adjusted so it stays open and closes all of the way and my blinds need replacing. I have huge Christmas decorating plans with my pile of lights and usually the bedroom window gets skipped, not this year, I hope to move the furniture soon too with the bed going below the window so I have to do it soon while there is still access. like this picture I found on Pinterest.

Also today is lunch with Ria day---what do you have planned for the day?

KNIT ON~

Check out what is left on the sale page!

Friday FIll Ins

2011-11-04T06:41:00.005-04:00

Last year for Halloween our friend Scott was the Scarecrow from Wizard of Oz, this year he was Jacob Marley from A CHristmas Carol

1. In November, I most look forward to __Thanksgiving and the start of Christmas activities___.

2. __Last week's snowstorm___...phew!

3. It's right there, in the _pen basket on my desk____.

4. _Getting the rent paid is ____ peace of mind.

5. Water __is one of the most consistent things I drink___.

6. _Lordy, Lordy ____ is what my grandmother used to say!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to knitting and maybe a Christmas movie_____, tomorrow my plans include __more of the same and picking debb up at the airport___ and Sunday, I want to _Take it as it comes____!

KNIT ON!!!

THursday!!!1

2011-11-03T10:51:00.002-04:00

Just too adorable aren't they

These are the snowmen from the Knit Picks Ornament Pattern
I knit them with lace weight white coned yarn on size 0 needles and did not felt them, I used Palette for the top hat, I deconstructed the DDD worsted to make lumpy's hat and just made my own scarves and shawl out of other DDD yarns. If I have time
I would like to make more.

in an effort to raise some much needed funds I am going to sell off some of my sock and lace yarn stash so watch for a post soon of some great yarns at what I hope will be seducing prices

and

Cheri--when I cam across a knot I just kept working it, and you really can't see it later at all!

KNIT ON!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T06:38:00.003-04:00

Prudence
a couple more finished!

Milo

KNIT ON!!!!

Ten on Tuesday No Power Edition

2011-11-01T11:19:00.003-04:00

The power did come back in time for us to watch the Steelers beat the Patriots (sorry Nichole) so #6 of the monster steeler parade is Woodley (claude the closet monster) who pulled a ham string in the 3rd quarter.

Ten things to Do when the Power is out!!!

flip the mattress
bake bread (we have a gas stove)
use up the defrosting tomato sauce
drink room temperature water
boil water to wash the dishes
call everyone on your cell phone to see if they have power
go outside and shake the snow off the cherry tree
Bring in some pots of herbs that were still outside
read
knit by candlelight! (note to santa I need a headlamp for Christmas)

and for 2011 #11 go to bed early and cuddle to keep warm!!!

Lots of holiday knitting going on here, must go and get back to it!!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Merry Christmas--I mean Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T05:12:00.006-04:00

The last rose outside our door

The tree on the left wound up with a broken branch, the one in the middle split in two

The parking lot

My cherry that I thought we would loose but it made it!

Three huge branches off of a tree across the courtyard, their branches covered the entire yard making the walkway impassable.

there is one street in town where every tree had major damage on both sides of the street as if a tornado had gone through.

we lost power around 1:47 Sat. it was restored around 4 yesterday, we lost food and sleep but otherwise we survived. Sleep because the central fire alarm for the building is in our foyer, when the power is off for a while the battery kicks in to let you know it is disconnected, we didn't realize until yesterday morning that we could remove the alarm so the beeping which occured every 5 seconds all night caused a very disruptive sleep, we are also quite used to sleeping with the fan on so that was a problem too. Last night was better.

Knitting wise I was working on an afghan which is garter mitered squares so even by candlelight I did pretty good.

Now, today it is really cold, school is closed, and the clean up continues,
Lake Hiawatha has seen a lot, 2 months ago Irene, and now a rogue snow
storm in October.

I decided to be Elizabeth Zimmerman for Halloween, my hair has gotten quite long and quite salt and pepper, I am always knitting, I think it is the perfect choice, what are you going to be?

KNIT ON!!!

2011-10-26T18:01:00.004-04:00

Several folks have inquired how to make the beautiful ruffled scarves. Here is a link that explains how it is done. SCARVES

some of the manufacturers that carry the yarn to make these are

Universal Rozetti marina

Katia Triana

Knitting Fever Flounce

Premier Starbella

Paton's Pirouette

available on line and some at AC Moore and Michaels, in a wide range of colors and some are even sparkly, One skein makes a good size 50 inch or so scarf and two can make it wider or longer.

Soon I will try the Kid Silk Creation which is Mohair and Silk and the construction is just slightly different. Here is the link for this one. KSC

I hope this helps those who wanted to know. I am able to do a scarf in 2 hours or so, its a little fiddly to start but once you get a rythem going it is fabulous----also don't drop the stitches from the needle they are a bugger to recapture. With patience it can be done but it isn't easy.

OKay folks two posts in one day---I am taking tomorrow off!!!! KNIT ON!!!!!

FO Wednesday!

2011-10-26T10:47:00.002-04:00

this is the comforting hearts shawl in Impeccable Threads for claysprincess on Ravelry. She commission it as a christmas gift for her MIL. Hope she sends me her mailing address soon so I can send it off to her!

4 more of the ruffle scarves, they are so addictive and down right fun!

Mittens in a diagonal pattern for Joannie at the Spa for Christmas, they will have flowers added to the cuff for a little bit of embellishment!

Steelers did win on Sunday, so this is Wallace (one of the babies from the Lilah, lydia and lucas monsters) he is very tiny about 2.5 inches.

Made the slouch hat yesterday, will not picture it because its a gift, the one in yesterday's post was one from Ravelry---it is called Chaos, and is a free pattern. I don't know what yarn was used in the picture.

Still hoping to pick up some more commission knitting---or a good sit down part time job in NJ if anyone knows of one. Need to help the income level around here!!!

KNIT ON!!!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-10-25T10:58:00.004-04:00

Ten Christmas gifts I plan to knit

an afghan--request of the future bride and groom
3 Gort the Gymbag monsters representing various teams
Dog Sweater with a Steelers Motif for Tom's helpers chihuahua
At least 5 more scarves
A turtle for grandson in orange and green
A kindle cover
a slouch hat
a pair of men's socks
another pair of mittens for granddaughter #1 in black
Owl Buddies for everyone who gets a gift and because its 2011

11. a stuffed armadillo

I am sure there are many more things that will be knit for the list of people I knit for, I always wanted to do a dragon for Tom, and maybe socks for Rob,definitely something in yellow for granddaughter #2 and I haven't decided what to make Denise yet, She has already gotten socks, fingerless mitts, scarves, a blanket (Girasole) and a shawl. ..... I did start a sweater for her birthday which never got finished so maybe that.

Meeting Ria for lunch today, and of course some knitting time!!!!

All the images above are from Ravelry---not mine, at alL!

KNIT ON!!

Clarence's SUnday Adventure

2011-10-24T11:00:00.010-04:00

just had to get away, been a rough 10 days or so around here, and Miss Moneypenny has been a bit carried away with the togetherness thing after our junket to the shore, so Mum, Pops and my big sister Debb took off for the day. Debb made sure I had my seat belt on.

We headed to the Wooly Monmouth in Red Bank, haven't been there in years and Mum was so happy i thought she would pop her stuffing, she loved playing with all of the yarn and talking to the staff. Years ago when Mum and Pops were on vacation they stopped in there and Dory the owner let her vote from the store computer for her shawl when the Little Knits contest was going on. I hung out on the knitting table while Mum browsed, see that lovely grey yarn, its Kidsilk Creation and is beautiful so soft and pretty, it makes those super curly scarves that are so popular right now, Mum had some birthday gift money so she got 2 skeins and some Katia Lux for several more scarves (did you know she knit 4 of them this weekend)

I am laying on the pretty Raspberry color she got, but she also got the green and that is the Lux on the left.

Debb wanted to go to Silent Bob and Jay's Secret Stash comic book shop(also in Red Bank) but it was closed, so Pops took us to the convenience store they used in their movie CLERKS.

We headed over to John Bon Jovie's new restaurant Soul Kitchen, we knew it was closed but wanted to see it for ourselves, its a pay what you can afford restaurant. If you are unable to pay you can work for a voucher for your food, if you can pay there are envelopes on the table. What a great concept and we hope to get in some night when they are open, but I understand they are already booked for months. My big brother Rob shot the grand opening last week for NJ Monthly Magazine.

Then we drove to Colts Neck, Mum and Pops want to move into that vicinity so badly. but this trip we were headed to delicious orchards, the place was packed, cars and people everywhere, enjoying the gorgeous fall day and all the bounty the store had to offer.

I am getting tired here, and a wee bit cranky so Pops put me down for a nap.

We got cauliflower, and apples, pumpkin butter, fresh ground peanut butter, tea for Mum and apple cider donuts, which after our huge Linner (lunch and dinner) at Houlihans Mum had for dinner last night.

And finally we got home, I have to have a dental procedure today, seems my teeth aren't holding up to all the traveling, but Mum will have the glue out as the Steelers won again yesterday so another Steeler monster was created last night.

After we got home, Pops made us sit through Jeepers Creepers and The Blair Witch Project, Mum knits even faster when scary movies are on, but everytime Pops was out this weekend, she put in a Christmas movie to accompany her christmas knitting!!!

Then Mum and I slept in this morning, we had nothing crushing on our schedules!

HOPE YOU HAD AS MUCH FUN THIS WEEKEND AS WE DID!!

Check out this contest (chocolate fishies)

KNIT ON!

64 knitting days until christmas

2011-10-21T11:34:00.003-04:00

Another birthday gift arrived, thank you ever so much Channon for my sheepy mug, and the box of much needed Tazo Calm Tea---my favorite,nite time, time to relax tea!!!
I love them, thank you again!!

Another christmas present done, these are fingerless mitts, knit on straights but the next pair I will do on dpns, the pattern was fun, I really enjoyed it, took about 6 hours to knit all total. these are for one of my waitress friends at the Spa Dolly

Odds are you will see lots of small projects on my page now, as Christmas knitting gets under way. My 3 WIP shawls will probably not see much progress until February, since I have about 26 presents to knit yet, and have already done stacks. Then january is me-uary where I get to knit the luscious yarns Tom gives me at Christmas up for me!I have 12 monsters, at least 6 scarves, 4 pair of mittens or mitts, a blanket, an armadillo, a pair of socks , a sweater for a chihuahua, and who knows what else

I have been telling my family and loved ones--we are paying tribute to Dolly Parton this holiday and celebrating a "Hard Candy Christmas" its hand knit or its nothing, this is why I have such a huge stash!!!

Do you have your holiday knitting plans figured out!!!. Have a good weekend I will be like Rapunzel spinning straw into gold, but knitting yarn into gifts (I have tons of wrapping paper left over from last year and no boxes---hmmmmm the USPS gives away priority boxes free, I could do that!)

KNIT ON!!!

Some busy work!

2011-10-20T04:35:00.000-04:00

a few finished projects---this is a Kindle Cover by dani berg, she named it a monster cover, so I had to add a mouth to complete his persona, I have wanted one forever and finally today sat and knit it, It took 1 1/2 hours, bulky yarn and size 10.5 needles
I made Faith and Hope earlier in the month, this is Charity--the homely stepsister, she was fun to craft with Classic Silk and Fun Fur!
Meet Blackheart, the answer to Katherine's challenge. I used a fairly basic concept for the monkey body, I added Rebecca Danger's Presley for the arms, Her Jerry for the ears tail and muzzle and improvised the horns, they are stuffed with chenille stems to stand up straight. It was so much fun to play with and come up with an answer to her challenge. So katherine what do you think????

Swappers---are all of the packages in the mail delivered? I haven't heard from Georgi, Marissa, Wanda at all Hope it is going well--if you have Not heard anything let me know so the gentle prodding can begin and angels gathered if needed.

Thinking about a tiny pre Christmas swap but more on that later.

KNIT ON!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T09:16:00.003-04:00

This was going around Facebook yesterday,
anyone else see it?
Her name is Katwise she knits new sweaters from old ones!

KNIT ON!

10 Things to Do with Pumpkin!

2011-10-18T11:13:00.007-04:00

This is a birthday gift from Jessie, she is now a Scentsy consultant, and gifted me with a plug in warmer that uses a light bulb to melt special scented wax to perfume the room, she included Happy Birthday blocks which smell like cake and is a wonderful addition to our home. I hope when our financial crisis abates a bit to pick up a few as Christmas gifts for some special folks.

ANother birthday gift, is actually a birthday challenge, from Katherine, she sent me Patons Classic Wool in sock monkey colors to make a sock monkey MONSTER. She included a copy of the Patons pattern for inspiration. Rebecca D makes a monkey--Jerry, but it is a critter not a monster, so I have been culling various patterns and am coming up with my own. Details when He is finished--his name is going to be B---------.

Even though my dear H has been a bit miffed at me this weekend (we missed the wedding reception and he was not happy) he did block this scarf for me, it is loosely based on the Volan Scarf in Tosh and Candy Skein. It is going out in a birthday box later today!

the doctor visit shows it is not the medication but the diet finally catching up with my hormones. This was detected with a strip test that indicates hormone levels for pregnancy conception and menopause/ Estrogen is stored in fat, since I have been steadily loosing weight the differences of having the hormones re-realeased into my body have been gradual, after being stagnant for a couple of weeks with barely any weight loss it seems this week I lost a lot and it triggered a flood of hormones into my system. The only medical answer is to induce a period, since I have been period free for 18 months that is not happening, because there is no gaurantee it would be a one time thing and is similar to starting HRT which I will not do. Non-medical answer which is equally difficult to swallow, is one eliminate stress, two eat more chocolate, and carbs (which I can't do--the carbs make me cramp) and find some relaxation techniques. He also said a job would take my mind off things but we can't think of one that would keep me off my legs since standing is so painful. Ideally if I could make knitting my liveliehood that would help with the anxiety and negative feelings I have about myself. So how do I feel now? Conflicted, I don't know how much of it is smoke that he is blowing up my nether regions because I don't have insurance and can't have 20 million further tests, or if I am really loosing my mind.

We did not get to see the Steelers win again this SUnday because local TV covered the Giants instead (who also won) but a new stuffie was made to honor the win. This is Pouncy (for Markice Pouncy) and is made in worsted wool and alpaca on size 3 needles. That makes 4 so far, Ward, Pouncy, Malu and Max.

This shawl (above) is my own design---it is the universal ball band shawl, knit in yarn that Jennifer C gifted me last birthday. It is an open circular design that I like to design because when you get to the body you don't have to worry about increasing any further.

This is the commissioned shawl, my Comforting hearts pattern, but not blocked yet, knit in worsted weight in 3 different colors, on size 10 needles, When blocked it will be nice an large and comfy. My prices are not expensive, so please keep me in mind if you need a gift and don't have time to make it.

10 things to do with Pumpkin!

Carve it into a jack o lantern
Use it as a soup bowl or tureen
Make pumpkin pie
Make pumpkin bread
Make pumpkin cookies
Make pumpkin seeds toasted and salted
Enjoy a pumpkin flavored coffee or tea
Pick up some Pumpkin donuts at Dunkin Donuts
I adore Pumpkin butter, which I have only found a few times in my life
Henley Products makes a pumpkin soap

and number 11 because----burn Pumpkin scented candles, my favorites for October and November!

PS==two of the links coffee and DD are identical!

Guess I have bored you to tears for today! Lunch with Ria on the schedule

KNIT ON!!!!

Quick Update

2011-10-17T10:33:00.002-04:00

lovely autumn display at a supermarket

going to the doctor this AM trying to get my meds tweaked so I am not such a basket case, the only thing that made me feel better all weekend was 2 little pieces of Dove dark chocolate late Sunday afternoon.

Still knitting though!

Look for a bigger post tomorrow, the good Lord willing and the creek don't rise!

KNIT ON!!

hey there!

2011-10-15T10:08:00.001-04:00

had an absolutely terrible day yesterday from beginning with bad dreams to the end with swollen eyes and a massive headache, missed the wedding reception but was in no condition to go. Just going through some funky bad stuff, involving family friends health money jobs ---oh I guess that is called life. Combine all of that with reading about or hearing about everyone else in the worlds strife and a local crime event that set everyone on edge and it was a rough day---but it is over and a new one begins. I also ran out of yarn before I finished a project and hope the store today will have another skein. (It did)

I just wish that I was more thick skinned, literally and emotionally (one of the health problems is a sore that won't heal), I wish my hormones would level off so I could get off the roller coaster (probably the biggest problem is my inability to cope) and I wish I could find a way to help us financially. Things are rough all over but the older you get the harder it gets.

Oh well I am doing what upset me yesterday, whining at all of you innocent people! Ignore me, and my saturday post and KNIT ON!!!

Drive by Post

2011-10-14T11:12:00.003-04:00

so my dear swap buddies, tomorrow is the 15th is your swap package in the mail? I have mine, Ria has hers, Barbara has hers and so far that is all that I know of!!!!! Please let me know soon if we are going to need angels!

Going to a wedding tonight---the couple were married in august in vegas but the reception is tonight. Tom says I can't bring my knitting---boooooo!

AND today is I LOVE YARN DAY!!!! Celebrate buy something pretty for yourself!!!!

KNIT ON!!!!!

#4 finished

2011-10-13T12:01:00.002-04:00

Reading late last month of Judy Sumners death due to pancreatic cancer prodded my sock mojo and I found a pattern of hers on Ravelry called Springy. I had some 3 Irish girls, Gwendolyn, which is my granddaughters name and started a pair of socks. Here they are super easy pattern and a joy to knit. This makes #4, I promised my self I would make 6 pair this year, so 2 to go.

I decided my Pi shawl was not going to be big enough with 3 colors so I added a 4th, a Knit pIcks stroll tonal in sunshine yellow, I still plan to end it in purple so all total it will be 5 colors. Today I plan to clean up my knitting space and then sit down with the commissioned Comforting Heart Shawl. I picked up buttons today and a size 1 29" circular for my SpatterDash Wrist Warmers and plan on using Elann Tremelo in a raspberry red/black combo. But since they are for me---they may wind up waiting until Me-Uary which is coming again soon. But we shall see how the time goes

One of my clothing orders arrived yesterday, and I know have a shirt to wear with my dressy black pants for the wedding tomorrow night. The other shirt in this order is nice but even with the sequins on it screams too casual for a night time wedding. I will keep though rather then return it because you never have enough casual clothes. The second package will go back unopened when and if it arrives. I don't want to many dressy clothes since I am still loosing weight and we don't dress up very often.

Hope you have a great Thursday!!! And all of you off to Rhinebeck I collect pens with sheep on them if you see any!!!! Have a wonderful time!

KNIT ON!!!

It's Wordless Wednesday Again, Already

2011-10-12T09:37:00.003-04:00

Steelers won Sunday
Meet Ward
Aka Baldwin the Bathroom Monster
tweeked the pattern a bit to make him smaller
size 0 needles
Claudia Handpaint in Steeler colors (leftovers from Ria )

KNIT ON!!!

Clarence and MoneyPenny at the Beach

2011-10-11T05:52:00.007-04:00

just arrived, we were bad monsters on the trip down
poking, and hair pulling and singing dirty songs

joining Mum for tea!

made a new friend on the trip

checking for mail!

inspecting the garden

we sorta got caught playing with the hose

trying to keep Pops warm (it was a bit chilly)

trying to read what the sign says

going for a walk with Pops

he took us to the beach!

we climbed the dune fences

and ran through the grass

Miss moneypenny was ascared of the sea gulls, but I protected her

Badges--we don't need no stinking badges

oh no another sea gull and he looks hungry

Mum loves it when I help her knit!

I just wanted to start the grill for dinner

now I am in a time out

Moneypenny and I spent the night in the car (we wanted some alone time)

am I doing this right?

did you see the feather I found!

these time outs are out of control!

helping load up the car for the trip home

some last minutes at the shore house with Pops!

KNIT ON!!!

Home again Home again Jiggity Jig

2011-10-10T09:58:00.006-04:00

My very lovely swap box from Vicki B--this is from the swap I am running, A great ball of Zauberball, and 2 patterns from my queue, some truffles and chocolate/mint tea, and some G items from Michaels and magnetic note pads that I really needed. A wonderful box full of goodies!

Another package that arrived while I was gone was my last MM2 yarn from Dancing Dog Dye works, what great colors, it will make a great stuffie!!!

AHhh we are back--we could not have had a better 4 days, the weather was outstanding, 2 of the days were totally cloudless, it was lovely and cool until yesterday when the temps reached almost 90--that is a bit extreme for us. We visited our buds each day at the bayside cafe and then just lounged the rest of the time. Tom made some fabulous meals and one day I got soup from the local meat market, it was tomato vegetable and it was delicious. We did over eat a bit, but had lunch yesterday on the way home and I never ate again until this morning. It was that filling.

I do fear I am getting a cold though---started on the trip but so far hasn't gotten too bad, just makes me feel muzzy headed for awhile from time to time and I am so tired, I think I could sleep for a week if my body didn't wind up aching from being in bed so long.

Of course you want to know about the knitting on the trip===on the way down, I worked on the Pi shawl, rows and rows of knitting in the round are perfect for car trips too and fro. On Friday I started a commissioned shawl (my comforting hearts in worsted for Claybustinprincess) and got through the yoke and one repeat of the pattern done. On Saturday I knit 2 of the ruffled shawls, took less then 4 hours to do them, worked on the other 2 shawls and started sock 2 of my springy socks, and oh yeah I knit 2 more owl puffs that I stuffed when I got home last night. On sunday it was the sock while still at the beach, and I am turning the heel now, and then the Pi on the ride home and late last night when I didn't want to start the heel since I was fighting sleep.

Today I will finish turning the heel and do the gusset, then I will make a Steelers monster, they won YEAH, and see what is left of the day from then on.

Tomorrow a long and winded post about Clarence and Miss Moneypenny's adventures in Lavalette, yes clarence insisted on a girlfriend and they did cause a ruckus from time to time.
just a preview!!

KNIT ON!!!

PS Happy Thanksgiving to my Canadian readers!!!!!!

And we are off

2011-10-06T11:02:00.003-04:00

for parts unknown, will return next week with more bloggy happenings--enjoy your weekend AND

KNIT ON!!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T08:47:00.006-04:00

Hope Faith and Owl

Owl Puff

Hope
aka Holly of the Holly,Ivy and Steve Christmas Monsters
Classic Elite Silk
size 3 needles
a blingy belly button ring
and a scarf of kid silk haze and palette!

SHowed off the ruffled scarf at the Spa yesterday
Got waitress approval, so looks like a winner there

Thanks for lunch Ria!!! It was a great afternoon

KNIT ON!

More presents!

2011-10-04T10:21:00.007-04:00

my birthday gifts from my sister Joanne and her family-
the lovely trunk to hold yarn by my chair
the pretty scented candles

a thanksgiving decoration
and tea towels in autumn colors

For the month of October Knit Pink is the KAL for danger crafts, my first monster of the month is Faith, she is the Petunia pattern with different legs, and she is named for my MIL who is a 29 year breast cancer survivor. Hope is on the needles now, she is Holly from the Christmas ornaments Holly Ivy and Steve.
Both monsters are being made in different shades of Classic Elite Classic Silk and other yarns for embellishment.

This is the ruffled scarf made from Premier starabella It is just slightly fiddly but very easy and quick to do. I picked up one more skein of this color, 2 in red, and 3 in a lighter blue, one skein makes an over 45 inch scarf, but you could use 2 if you wanted it really long. Now the original pattern is made with Katia Triana and that sells for about 14$ a skein, the starabella sells for 8 regularly but I got it during AC Moore's half off sale so 4$ for a scarf is a great deal.

I got a beautiful skein of Wollmeise yesterday FREE--it was for taking part in the 3 part Camp Loopy all summer, its a beautiful peacock blue and I may due another Panache in it or maybe a Peacock patterned shawl.

I know you are all knitters BUT if you know anyone who needs Christmas gifts, please keep me in mind, I have shawls to sell and Monsters too and my prices are reasonable and I can make any of my design shawls to special order. We have extra expenses piling up between the surgery and the wedding and the holidays and I have to do something to help. I can't work outside the home because of all my mobility issues but maybe I can make some extra pennies from my craft.

Well if the cable guy arrives before 2 I will be meeting Ria for lunch and some knitting time, I have packages going in the mail to Barbara Strong, Vicki, and Poolgirl95 and I think I am done swapping for a bit, have to recoup the finances and be a little more thrifty, The packages are fun and not too pricey but the postage can be quite hefty.

Well off to knit until the cable guy arrives, working on Hope and Owl Puffs, these are adorable and will make great ornaments or cute little extras tucked on top of gifts

KNIT ON!!!!

'kay I lied!!!

2011-10-03T10:37:00.004-04:00

so I woke up this morning and the computer and modem entirely healed them selves, my telephone works again and i am able to get online. I don't really know what is wrong but when I spoke to customer service in India yesterday they said my modem was shot, so I will still keep the tech appointment in case it is going to fade in and out on a regular basis.

The winner in the birthday contest is VickiB!!!! She was not only the first wish but the random # generator also picked #1 so it was meant to be, watch the mail for a little gift from me.

Friday was low key, I had cake with my waitress buddy she gifted me with a lovely friendship placque and an autumn candle, then Tom brought home flowers, we had take out ( I had been craving chinese for awhile) and he went out, ahhhhhhhhh the quiet, no tv no conversation just lots of knitting time.

Saturday morning he had a tat appt (whose birthday was this) we went to breakfast, we went to Sonic for lunch (had never been--ehhhh) and then to AC Moores for their yarn sale, stocked up on Starabella the Premier yarn company's answer to Triana the ruffly mesh everyone is knitting with. I finished one scarf already, and have 6 or 7 more to make. For dinner that night we picked up Daughter Debb and went to the Rattlesnake Cafe and I tried alligator---again ehhhhh at least I can say I tried it, too me it was like rubbery overcooked calamari. I did have some good enchiladas though. Debb gave me some bandanas for my hair (I like to wear them to keep my hair off my face) and a very gorgeous Fall Vera Bradly The purpley one in the style Mandy. I love it. Yesterday we had a lazy day watching the Steelers loose, and then went to my sisters for dinner. She gave me a lovely paper (hard board) trunk, 2 autumn candles, autumn dishcloths and a Thanksgiving decoration. I will post pictures of it later.

I also got a swap box on Thursday with a fabulous little puppy in it, some great extras including a mini skein, a hand knit santa ornament, a giraffe coffee mug, and some tea and jelly beans. It was from NoKNITSherlock, and I loved it all.

Over the weekend I made the chunk, made a Pink monster for our Pink for October KAL on Danger Crafts, a ruffled scarf and worked on my new design shawl. Lots of knitting and I even left it home when we went to my sisters. I also got the autumn decorations up and now before I sit and knit some more I am off to scrub the bathroom that did get neglected this weekend.

Come back tomorrow for even more photos of gifts and knitting!!!!!

KNIT ON!!!

They say its My Birthday

2011-09-30T08:23:00.001-04:00

Yeah Happy Birthday to ME!!!

More later,
have a great weekend

KNIT ON!!!!!

Thursday thoughts

2011-09-29T10:48:00.005-04:00

Tom has been working close to home the last few days, hence he sleeps in later so instead of getting up a 5 I am not getting up until 7, instead of being out by 9 I have been out by 8 but I still manage to stay out until almost 11 and then everything else is late for the rest of the day, and today he is finishing up so he will be home extra early---my alone time is at a premium today

This is the dress I love, supposedly 5 stores in the US carry it ----NOT, I have contacted them all and they all say Ann Balon who? But even though Tom and I like it I have not heard from the bride to be and I am thinking she doesn't like it, and after me plucking down big bucks for her dress she doesn't want to bust my bubble so I may be back at the drawing board Edited to add I did hear from little bride to be and she loves it, now to find it!

I finally found several outfits to choose from for the wedding reception on the 14th of October---guess what they are all back ordered, I may be going naked well from the waist up, the pants have shipped.

This arrived yesterday a Happy Birthday Gluten Free Treat basket from a dear neighbor Marissa, how sweet was that.

I am giving a gift to celebrate my birthday like I did last year, Everyone who comments with Happy Birthday wishes between Midnite tonight and 11:59 PM tomorrow night is entered. I will draw a name over the weekend and share the winner with you on Monday!!!

I started my new shawl==think ballband meets semi-circular, and I all but finished a candy corn monster.

I have a pet peeve I am trying hard to deal with and I can't post about it because I am being petty and it involves some of the many many swaps I am doing (not my own swap though) and it is just making me bubble over with unhappiness so I must go knit and bring my blood pressure down. Speaking of my swap Ladies---how are we doing? Are you all in touch with each other?
Barbara--I have all of the stuff for you just waiting a little bit longer to put it in the mail!!! DeeK don't you have an OCTOBER birthday as does KathyMason and Darcy, but I can't find the date in my records anywhere. Please let me know!!!

KNIT ON all!!!!

pHoto HeavY pOst ToDay

2011-09-28T09:31:00.005-04:00

Recent Hobby Lobby Yarn Acquisition--for monsters and critters!
Birthday gift angel from Jeannie and Johnny--that is 2 Jim Shore Angels in my collection! Both from them
Mug and trinket box I bought 40% off at Hobby Lobby. Not pictured Interweaves Holiday Issue which I did not look at the price of until Monday---14.99, eeks I could have gotten a hardcover knitting book for that money!

2nd Candy Corn Monster In Progress

First Springy (The late Judy Sumner) sock finished!

When it was still in progress

AndyLee a punter for the 49ers I made for Ria, she performed surgery on him
last night and made him into a keychain fob!

My steelers monster--Malu

Several hexiflats for Ria, a monster and a flower--she isn't stuffing hers so they are flats as opposed to puffs

I laid awake half the night thinking of shawl ideas so the candy corn might wait, as will the PI shawl and the 2nd sock as I try to put my ideas into practice. Thank goodness for stash!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Ten on Tuesday

2011-09-27T06:41:00.004-04:00

saw this on Facebook (loved that she is knitting)

Ten Things I do Everyday:

computer time--email, facebook, Gardens of Time, Ravelry blogs etc
go to breakfast---most often the Spa but once or twice a week I try other places too
do the dishes--Tom cooks I clean up
Make the bed--hate getting into a unmade bed, and Tom is a blanket hog (although he usually lays on top of them not under them)
watch Y & R
Knit---at least 5 hours a day seems to be the norm, in at least 3 different increments
Afternoon tea--between 3 and 4 I always brew a pot of tea
read--especially at breakfast in the morning unless of course I am with company
hygiene--all the basics, wash deodorize brush teeth hair, etc
take my meds--4 in the morning one at night, was hoping weight loss would elimiate some of them but not yet.
because it 2011----pray!

Tomorrow knitting content I promise!!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Monday Monday!

2011-09-26T10:22:00.005-04:00

tom's weirdest heirloom

my weekend sock knitting

from l to right, Meredith, Jake and Gwen

IT was a wonderful and exhausting weekend===from a fabulous visit with my son and his family friday night, and Jeannie and Johnny too-Debb didn't make it due to what we thought was shingles but now know it was a severe case of neuralgia--to wedding dress shopping on Saturday, then lunch with the bridal party and a trip to Hobby Lobby, it was just packed full of good times.

THE grandchildren were wonderful---I enjoyed every minute with this group of smart, wise, and funny children. They are tic tac toe experts and Meredith is an excellent artist, making me a picture of a fairy in the car on the way down and then drawing a picture of me at the restaurant. Jake talks a mile a minute and precludes everything with CAN I ASK YOU SOMETHING, And Gwen, sweet Gwen is a lovely young lady, with the most gorgeous skin and smile I have ever seen. The time went to fast and I hope our schedules mesh again soon.

The wedding dress is purchased, and the bridesmaids too!!! I have found one from a designer in England that I really like, now to find it in the states, only 5 states carry her designs. Its Italian lace and gorgeous. Jeannie has asked I keep the dress under wraps so there is no chance of her dad or John seeing it since she wants to totally blow their minds. The best part was that her MOH and I were looking through books while she was in the changing room and I said---ohhh this dress is so Jeannie and that is the exact one she wanted. She was so happy I know her so well. THe girls will be in Kelly Green and so will the guys cummerbunds or vests except for Tom and John, John will be white or silver, and Tom more then likely black or grey.

With all the car riding, I was knitting on my Pi shawl it is largely just SS, and home time I spent on the sock, I made a bet with the powers that be if the Steelers won last night I would make a steeler monster today so I guess I better get busy!!!!

Tomorrow I will tell you about hobby lobby, and try to find a downloadable picture of my favorite dress for me!!!

KNIT ON!!!

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-09-23T10:31:00.003-04:00

Butternut
from the Jerry the Musical Monster Pattern
by Rebecca Danger
In Michaels' Impeccable--its all knitted and adorned with embroidery, since it is for a one year old and I don't need him swallowing buttons etc.
Knit on size 6 needles.

1. When I walk around my neighborhood I see __so much devestation from the Hurricane___.

2. ___left overs from what Tom made the night before__ is my favorite thing to cook.

3. Life is __a little difficult at the moment___.

4. My _small collection of handknit socks ___ makes me feel all warm and fuzzy

5. _Butternut or Acorn Squash ____ is my favorite Autumn vegetable.

6. __Turkey and Stuffng___ is better when it is _roasted at home____.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _an early birthday celebration, out at a restaurant with all 3 of my children, all of the Loved ones except poor Chad in Alabama and My 3 grandchildren and of course Tommo ____, tomorrow my plans include ___wedding dress shopping with my daughter and her entourage__ and Sunday, I want to _collapse____!

Cast on Socks last night and worked on the Pi shawl too---Pi shawl is going to be car knitting for this busy weekend and socks of tv knitting!

KNIT ON!

Some Finished Projects

2011-09-22T10:28:00.006-04:00

Meet Hoisin
She is a more colorful cousin of Wasabi. While Wasabi loves riding in cars Hoisin would rather sit in the biggest comfiest chair in the room. She sleeps all of the time, and when someone enters the room she may raise an eyelid to see who it is but quickly ignores them and goes back to sleep. Her two weaknesses are children, they make her tail wag, and fortune cookies---she loves them, adores them, craves them and would love to get a job writing the fortunes that are stuffed into the cookies. One of her all time favorite movies is “Love is A Many Splendored Thing” and she loves watching the Big Bang Theory on TV,

Dancing Dog Dyeworks Swap
This is the dog I made my swap partner LittleLippyEwe
The pattern is Wasabi the Gregarious Pug
I made Hoisin the Reticent Pug
Size 4 needles
And DDD yarn

For Little Elias Pleveritis who will be one year old on my birthday 9/30
I made him 2 hats for fall, candy corn and pumpkin
and I am using the same colors to make a Jerry the Musical Monkey!
I will see his Mom on Saturday when we all meet to go Wedding Dress Shopping

New Fall/Winter Curtains hung, actually bought new ones for the living room and ironed and ironed like crazy yesterday, Of course I am sure it will hit 90 several more times, but the new look is great.

So what about those changes to Facebook---absolutely terrible, I just go and play my game and get off, no more trying to communicate on that site!!!

KNIT ON!!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T08:46:00.004-04:00

In Canada it is National Sock Day
Here I am sporting a pair from JenniferC!

Reclamation by Stefanie Japel
In a mystery fingering yarn
with a crocheted shell border
It is not blocked yet
but is going to be a wonderful drapey shawl

KNIT ON!

A-Z meme all about me!

2011-09-20T10:18:00.003-04:00

A-Z Meme

A: Age 56 years 11 months 2 weeks and 4days old birthday coming quickly know

B. Bedsize: king

C: chore that you hate: doing dishes - unfortunately as long as Tom cooks,

D: Dogs: if I had one it would be a Bichon or an Australian Labradoodle.

E: Essential to start your day: Iced Tea

F: Favorite color: Red,

G:Gold or Silver. Gold and I destroy silver, it literally pits and disintegrates when it touches my skin

H: height: 5'8 1/2"

I: instruments you play: Long, long ago,when forced by the parentals I played the accordian and the glockenspiel

J: Job title : Retired Stay and Home Mom--Consummate knitter and designer

K: Kids: Grown and Flown the coop

L: Live: Live a lot longer then both my folks

M: Mom's Name: Joan

N: nicknames: Gigi and Gracie

O: Overnight hospital stays: not since pneumonia for 10 days in 1977

P: Pet Peeves: bigots, hypocrits and kids that just scream instead of talking

Q: Quote from a Movie: "Maybe its a celebrity coming to knit with you"

R: Right or left handed: Right but my left works hard when I am knitting

S: Siblings:4

T: Take-Out food: sandwiches from Wazu

U: Underwear:for everyones personal safety YES

V: Veggies you hate: probably Okra

W: What makes you run late: The last time we were late for anything was my brother's wedding and it was pouring, washed out the roads we needed to travel, that was back in 2001 or so

x: Xrays: last ones were a year ago on my hip

Y: Yummy food: yes miss some of my favorites though like ice cream and cookies

Z: Zoo Animals: Giraffes

Made a candy corn hat yesterday, doing a pumpkin hat today and working on my Pi shawl!

KNIT ON!

Clarence's Adventurous Saturday

2011-09-19T05:15:00.007-04:00

Breakfast at our favorite restaurant in the world,
they make the best homefries!

Some time at the beach--it was chilly and windy and choppy and perfect!

And the we went to get some craft supplies for Tommo, Clarence helped with the driving, and ended the day with a visit from his cousin from Transylvania Mordichy and helping me knit!!! (I was working with his favorite colors--purple and yellow)

KNIT ON!!!

Swap Partners

2011-09-17T12:30:00.004-04:00

In case you are checking in looking for swap partners I have them figured out and posted here, I ill email you with more details over the weekend.

Katherine you will send to Georgi
Georgi you will send to Marissa
Marissa you will send to Wanda
Wanda you will send to KathyB
KathyB you will send to Ria
Ria you will send to Cindy
Cindy you will send to Vicki (Mrs Beasly)
Vicki you get me
I get Barbara and
Barbara sends to Katherine

Rules again:

a small swap--- 4 things specific things, mailed by October 15th.

a free one skein scarf pattern
one skein of yarn (from a craft store or stash--nothing expensive)
one autumn holiday or halloween item (state which you prefer --some folks don't do halloween,) this can be made or purchased
one treat (chocolate, savory, sweet, what is your favorite treat to get)

Total $$$ 15 and regifting is permissible as long as the item is in excellent condition!

Please let me know you have read this and let the stalking and swapping begin!!! And send your partners your mailing address!!

KNIT ON!

Friday Fill Ins

2011-09-16T10:51:00.004-04:00

First a little housekeeping--about the swap, Marissa I need you to go to Monday's post and answer the questions for me and send me an email and Barbara I need an email for you send it to needles54 at optonline dot net and if anyone else is interested, today is the last day to sign up. This swap is small on items so a quick turnover time, it must be mailed by October 15th.

One of the many items I have made for the Things That Go Bump In the Night Swap
but this one I am keeping, based on the Olivia the audacious Monster, this is Arnie the Audacious Scarecrow, knit in Knit Picks on size 3 needles!

1. Why do I __forget so many things lately___.

2. _We tried another senior complex to move too but they didn't have anything for the date we needed so we are here ____ to stay.

3. By far the most important __thing is we still have a roof over our heads___.

4. __I am an___ American. __And proud of it (its our government that concerns me) ___

5. But when __I dream about the ideal place to live I want to go to Ireland___.

6. _I have dreamed about that ____ for the longest time.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _knitting quietly____, tomorrow my plans include _a trip to Lavalette for breakfast and Wall for craft supplies for Tommo____ and Sunday, I want to ___make butternut squash soup__.

Hope everyone has a great weekend

KNIT ON!!!!

Drive by Post

2011-09-15T15:57:00.001-04:00

THe tea cosy I started the other day when I met Ria for lunch, it fits my little 2 cup tea pot---I finished it that night, and I finally got to make it beautiful today!!!

KNIT ON!!!

Ten on Tuesday LATE!!!!!!

2011-09-14T14:44:00.003-04:00

picture from catalog
I got this pillow in the mail yesterday from sweet Kathyb, in response to my pillow post, I love it, It is huge and squishy!!
Thanks Kathy

Had a great lunch with RIA yesterday, got a little knitting done, but not much we had so much catching up to do

and got my BIL Bob to his eye surgery today and back home, He did really well, tomorrow we go for a follow up and in 2 weeks he has the second eye done.

Since I am late today and missed 10 on Tuesday yesterday I will do it today (Marissa check out Monday's post for all of the swap info-)

Ten Things You spend Money on Weekly

Bottled water--we won't drink our tap water, it tastes terrible
Fruit--I eat a lot of it since starting the diet
Breakfast out---its just the way we roll
Stamps ---I never buy enough
Package Postage--I seem to mail a package every week to somewhere
Carpet Installation Supplies--seaming tape, tackstrip, staples, blades for the knife
Sweet Potatoes---we have these at least once every week
Chicken---same thing, it shows up at least that often
Pizza---tom does not have a complete week unless the pizza shows up some time
Wine---another Tom addiction and because it is 2011
Tea--even though I have quite the stash, there is always something new to try or something to replace

I did knit a little tea cozy yesterday, and worked on my Reclamation shawl at the surgical center this morning,now I am playing with my Halloweeen Monsters again, and I want to embellish the tea cozy!

KNIT ON!!!

More Mug Shots!

2011-09-13T05:14:00.000-04:00

These tea note cards are from the site below along with all of these wonderful mugs!

It is an Etsy site.

Yesterday's knitting I started another Halloween item, and I packed up lots of packages to be mailed off today, I am meeting Ria---believe it or not we have not gotten together since May, and I was given strict orders not to eat anything that would make me sick!!

Tomorrow I have to take my brother in law to have his cataract surgery--he said it would be about 3 hours for the whole procedure so I will bring lots of knitting and bottled water.

We have 6 people so far for the swap and I am hoping we get a few more--US or Canada is best but I will work with others too if they want to take part. Its just a little swap, 4 things--a free pattern (even the one off a skein of yarn) a skein of yarn, an autumn or halloween treat and decorative item. Think about it and join us!!

KNIT ON!!!!

Monday Fun

2011-09-12T05:47:00.000-04:00

First and Foremost the Winner of the Blogaversary Contest is Georgi!!! Congrats to you Georgi, Tommo picked your name from a bag of papers with everyones names on them. You need to email me at needles54 at optonline dot net and tell me if you want a shawl or a monster, and send me your mailing information

Secondly, Dorothy you asked about the shawl on my blog, that is the flowers vines and hearts shawl, it is a free pattern on Elann.com. It is easy and works up pretty quickly---you can also find it on my Ravelry page needles54 under my original designs.

Thirdly, how about a small swap--- 4 things specific things, mailed by October 15th.

a free one skein scarf pattern
one skein of yarn (from a craft store or stash--nothing expensive)
one autumn holiday or halloween item (state which you prefer --some folks don't do halloween,) this can be made or purchased
one treat (chocolate, savory, sweet, what is your favorite treat to get)

Total $$$ 15 and regifting is permissible as long as the item is in excellent condition!

If you want to take part, answer these questions and email me at the address up on the top of this post. It will not be a secret swap so you can communicate with your swap partner. The pattern and yarn is to help us get going on our holiday gifts, and the other two items are to enjoy the present moment!!! LET me know by Friday the 16th so I can get you matched right away.
Questions
1.favorite color?
2.favorite treat?
3. autumn or halloween?
4. knit or crochet?

I did make the dog this weekend although to me it looks like a pig instead of a pug, and made a crocheted shawl for Hope Lodge, I made a teeny tiny Coco named Didi for my eldest daughter, and am almost finished with the first scarf of the holiday season, a serious tweeking of Volan so much so I think now it is mine. I also wound 72 20 yard balls of yarn for hexipuffs for my swap partners and a friend.

I watched my beloved Steelers loose their opening game quite badly and am hoping it was a serious fluke and will be the only loss of the seasons.

KNIT ON---and come join the swap it will be fun!!!!

Happy Birthday dear friend.

2011-09-09T11:09:00.005-04:00

today is my dear waitress friend Denise's birthday---so I gave her Kat the kitchen monster complete with cupcake, apron and beaded necklace. She has a cupcake belly button and a tattoo on her butt of a heart, i also gave her some Tazo green tea, a new mug, a heart with the words Friendship and Love are bound by the heart and a dozen Dunkin Donuts for her to share with whom ever she pleases. It is also her fiance's birthday!!!

PS Ria---Elias (the waiter at the Spa) was asking for you, he wanted to know why its been so long since you have been in, I said maybe next week we will be able to get together.

I have been so busy with my Halloween Monsters, 4 are done and they are just so cool, I am having a ball with them. Three will go in the swap box to poolgirl95, and the rest I will keep or gift elsewhere but I don't want to share any until I decide. Today I will start the doggie for the DDD swap and this weekend I will start the 5th monster I have plans for and crochet a charity shawl in some bulky yarn. Tom will be working on wedding favors all weekend. I am hoping he will take my car in to have the tire fixed too--it is still round but is loosing air all of the time.

Friday Fill-Ins

1. Do they have _knitting in heaven____.

2. _At the wake the other night____; it was as if _my brother and I haven't been seperated for the last three years____.

3. That was a __blessing since I love my brother and have missed him___.

4. __We both__ seemed so comfortable.

5. As I said, _I still feel bad that my own wrong dinner choices kept me from the funeral itself____.

6. _My current eating plan definitely needs ____ some new twist.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _nothing much, I don't think Tom is going out because of all of the flooding, not sure he can get there from here____, tomorrow my plans include _breakfast out with dear hubbo and lots of knitting time ____ and Sunday, I want to _pause to remember and pray for those we lost, and pray that the future holds better things for this country____!

If my dear friend Al Jenkins had lived, today would have been his 39th wedding anniversary, He an I met the year he was married, we worked together, he and his wife became very close friends and are My youngest child's god parents. We lost Al almost 15 years ago on New Years Eve Day at the very young age of 47 to a heart attack. I think about him every day, he was a great Boston Red Socks Fan, collected baseball cards, and drove a Plymouth Duster. He was the first person I ever knew who actually went to Woodstock, and his eldest son Conor and my son Robert are 3 weeks apart in age. Unfortuneately my friendship with his wife has drifted into nothingness although I still remember birthdays, anniversaries and holidays, but she took his death very very hard. If she ever needs me I would be there in an instant for her because I loved them both so much.

Hope everyone that has had enough rain is dry and those who need it get some soon.

KNIT ON!!!!

2011-09-08T11:48:00.002-04:00

BLECHHHHHHH

Went to the wake last night and then out to dinner with youngest sister and her hubband, ate the wrong foods was up sick all night, slept finally from 7 am to a little bit ago----missed the funeral but had warned sister that it was a possibility between puking at 5 this morning ---to find out our roads are flooded and my checking account is overdrawn by 1.21 Thank goodness for overdraft, off to make hot tea and commiserate with my monsters and yarn!!

KNIT ON!

2011-09-07T05:17:00.000-04:00

just some of the adorable pillows I found scoping out the net!

Aren't they adorable!!

KNIT ON!

Had time after all!

2011-09-06T11:11:00.003-04:00

to all my blog friends who have helped me, supported me and loved me for
the last 6 years I thank you with a very humble heart.

I have an obsession of late with pillows with sayings on them, tomorrows
post will show more of them!

Ten On Tuesday
Ten Things I want to knit this fall/winter

a hooded scarf for me
more mittens
my christmas presents which include, scarves, mittens sweaters, shawls an monsters
some more socks--my 6 for the year isn't going to happen at the rate I am going
the mitered capelet
several more monsters including holiday ones
a dragon for tommo for christmas
an armadillo for debb's boyfriend for christmas
a cover for my kindle
some more of my own designs and because it is 2011
something that truly challenges me--any suggestions out there???

KNIT ON!

2011-09-05T22:56:00.001-04:00

much much going on and I may not be able to give my blogaversary the post it is due, please keep Chez Yaskovic and extended family in your thoughts and prayers. My brother lost his mother in law yesterday, my cousin's dad (my uncle) is in the hospital after a bad fall, another family member is awaiting test results and family strife and stress are running rampant.

More when I can and Knit ON!!!!!

Labor Day Post

2011-09-05T08:21:00.000-04:00

Anne Sheridan and Bette Davis

the lady on the right is Lucille Ball

Ingrid Bergman

Gloria Stuart

Doris Day

Audrey Hepburn

Knitting was big in the 50's among the celebrities of the time. They knitted between takes.
I find these pictures priceless and if I had a craft room I would frame them all and several other old time photos I saw.

Tomorrow the 6th is my 6th anniversary of blogging
That means a contest!

Everyone who comments between now and September 9th at midnight is eligible
The prize---your choice, a shawl or a monster!!

KNIT ON!!!!!

Friday Fill Ins!

2011-09-02T11:55:00.005-04:00

Friday Fill -Ins:

1. When I was 10 years old I started a new public school, I had always gone to Catholic school before that_____.

2. _Sweet Potato____ is my favorite vegetable because __it is sweet, delicious, served with butter and still a super food___.

3. My dream pet is __an older lazy cat but Tom is allergic___.

4. __In my little apartment, my falling out strands of hair ___ surrounds you.

5. If I could live anywhere in the world I'd live in __a small cottage on the coast of Ireland complete with fireplace and stone walls___.

6. _I need an Ott light so it can ____ keep on shinin' on me.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to __my usual couple hours of knitting time with no tv blaring while Tom is out___, tomorrow my plans include _nothing right now, but the Mister has already informed me we aren't sitting around all day ____ and Sunday, I want to ____sit around all day in defiance_!

KNIT ON!!!!

and have a great holiday weekend