Time for new year resolutions and a think back on the past year. In church on Sunday we were guided into reflecting on the past year. We were told to think about the best thing(s) of the year and the worst.
I had no trouble thinking of the best(s). I absolutely loved the week I spent with Melissa going to the sock summit and visiting with Karen and Angela. Such a very special time. It was heaven to have a whole week together doing what we both love, knitting! I hope to have a similar experience this year with Becky (get the hint!!!) doing some scrapbooking. My girls are very busy women so any time alone I get with them is cherished.
I also loved the knitting retreat at Port Ludlow. I met some wonderful women and got to know Tina and Stephanie. Both are wonderful, funny ladies who love to share their love of knitting.
Then I had to think of the worst and to be truthful, I could not think of anything. True I lost some friends this year but no one super close to me. Except for one death, all were above 80 years of age and had lived a vibrant, healthy life. My family was healthy, the recession had not hit any of us too bad. We had nice, warm homes to live in, food to eat (perhaps a little too much food!), cars to drive, jobs to go to. My stash had grown considerably, my dog gave me much joy, my husband and I were getting along better than ever.
My conclusion: This has been a GOOD year. Sure, some pain was felt. That's life. But I am thankful for my wonderful family. I have a good life. Thanks be to God.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
DAY OFF!!!!
I understand the schools being closed but I DO NOT understand why my husband is working today and I am not. Don't get me wrong, I am not disappointed, just dumbfounded! What is going on here?
So, let's go back a few days. It started early last week when the weather people started to tell us about a nor'easter coming our way. Well, we all know those are bad. But we also know that the weather people are always wrong. So, first we hear 6". Then we hear 6-10". We non believers are scoffing. It hasn't even started snowing yet and the numbers keep going up.
Finally, late Friday night, it start to snow, and snow some more, and then snow some more. They are now saying 10-12". Now it is Saturday afternoon. The snow is higher than the dog and it has not even slowed down. Now they say 12-20" with a possibility of more. Bottom line, they know NOTHING! Once again.
Saturday night it finally stops. Total for Columbia is almost 23 inches. Dog is not that tall. We see a problem but, smart me, I thought of a solution before all this started. Frank laid a tarp on the deck so that the area right below the deck has virtually no snow! Nestle has a place to go! Granted she does not like it but after we let her out the front, and she refused to get off the porch, she sees the wisdom of the backyard. Shih Tzus are so smart!
Thankfully I believed some of what the weather people were saying on Friday. I left work early to go to Jane's. I was afraid I would not get there on Saturday (turned out I was right) and everyone knows a woman NEVER misses a hair appointment. So I may not have been able to go out all weekend, but my hair looked good.
No wedding on Saturday, no church on sunday. Tracy did get married on Sunday with a lot less people in attendance. Frank and I were digging out the cars when the message came about the wedding being on again. Sorry we missed it.
Thankfully Frank made a grocery store stop Friday night so we had enough toilet paper et al. We stayed home and watched Star Trek and Hangover. Liked Star Trek not so much Hangover. Some of it was funny but I think it was for a younger audience than us two fogies.
Between doing some knitting and shoveling out the car, my elbow is killing me. Tennis/Knitting elbow stinks! It actually burns when I straighten it. Not pleasant.
Went to visit Dad on Friday night with library books. I figured I might not see him on sunday. Even if I could have gone to get him, I have no idea how he would have gotten into the house! There is no path to the road since they plowed. Steve and Sharon were there visiting dad so it was nice to see them. I brought Nestle and she loved it.
I guess I will sit back and enjoy my very special day off. My daughter in Pullman is laughing at me and my daughter in Houston is laughing harder. It's good to know I am keeping them jolly!
Happy holidays to all!
So, let's go back a few days. It started early last week when the weather people started to tell us about a nor'easter coming our way. Well, we all know those are bad. But we also know that the weather people are always wrong. So, first we hear 6". Then we hear 6-10". We non believers are scoffing. It hasn't even started snowing yet and the numbers keep going up.
Finally, late Friday night, it start to snow, and snow some more, and then snow some more. They are now saying 10-12". Now it is Saturday afternoon. The snow is higher than the dog and it has not even slowed down. Now they say 12-20" with a possibility of more. Bottom line, they know NOTHING! Once again.
Saturday night it finally stops. Total for Columbia is almost 23 inches. Dog is not that tall. We see a problem but, smart me, I thought of a solution before all this started. Frank laid a tarp on the deck so that the area right below the deck has virtually no snow! Nestle has a place to go! Granted she does not like it but after we let her out the front, and she refused to get off the porch, she sees the wisdom of the backyard. Shih Tzus are so smart!
Thankfully I believed some of what the weather people were saying on Friday. I left work early to go to Jane's. I was afraid I would not get there on Saturday (turned out I was right) and everyone knows a woman NEVER misses a hair appointment. So I may not have been able to go out all weekend, but my hair looked good.
No wedding on Saturday, no church on sunday. Tracy did get married on Sunday with a lot less people in attendance. Frank and I were digging out the cars when the message came about the wedding being on again. Sorry we missed it.
Thankfully Frank made a grocery store stop Friday night so we had enough toilet paper et al. We stayed home and watched Star Trek and Hangover. Liked Star Trek not so much Hangover. Some of it was funny but I think it was for a younger audience than us two fogies.
Between doing some knitting and shoveling out the car, my elbow is killing me. Tennis/Knitting elbow stinks! It actually burns when I straighten it. Not pleasant.
Went to visit Dad on Friday night with library books. I figured I might not see him on sunday. Even if I could have gone to get him, I have no idea how he would have gotten into the house! There is no path to the road since they plowed. Steve and Sharon were there visiting dad so it was nice to see them. I brought Nestle and she loved it.
I guess I will sit back and enjoy my very special day off. My daughter in Pullman is laughing at me and my daughter in Houston is laughing harder. It's good to know I am keeping them jolly!
Happy holidays to all!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
IS THIS WEEK OVER YET?
I work all five days this week and that is very tough to do. You tend to get used to only 4 days so when it's all 5 days... well I would rather not. Next week I have four and one half days off in a row and that is lovely to think about. Especially since none of my family will be around so I will do nothing but relax!
That makes it sound like I don't want my kids home but that is not even close to the truth. While I look forward to the time off, I would love it even more if my kids were home. But they aren't so I am trying to look on the bright side of it.
Christmas is just not the same without at least one of them home. I did not even decorate this year. No tree, no stockings, no lights ... nothing. I know that sounds depressing and it sorta is, BUT I did not have to do all that work! So, the conclusion of all this is: GETTING OLD SUCKS!
This past weekend was knitting fun at Rolling Ridge. That was really fun. The weather was perfect and I got to bring Nestle who had a ball. All those laps to sit on! She was very well behaved (except for one little incident we don't need to mention). I hope to bring her again. I think she liked it. (Except for the modeling. She could have lived without that!)
We went to see "A Dickens of a Carol" on Sunday and it was great. It's one of those plays where the audience is sort of part of it. It included dinner which was much better than either Frank or I expected. We loved it. We went with 3 other women and spouses from my book club.
Not much knitting to report due to the knitters elbow injury. I have one or two pairs of slippers to finish. I lost and found my quivit. That was scary. I may start the pretty thing cowl while I am off. I started a scarf that is much more difficult than it should be.
We did try the knitting machine I bought at a yard sale. Ended up throwing it out. Even Denise could not figure it out and it kept breaking. Oh well, I tried.
Knitting tonight. We are having a Christmas party. I even brought a gift to give away. Should be fun!!!!
That makes it sound like I don't want my kids home but that is not even close to the truth. While I look forward to the time off, I would love it even more if my kids were home. But they aren't so I am trying to look on the bright side of it.
Christmas is just not the same without at least one of them home. I did not even decorate this year. No tree, no stockings, no lights ... nothing. I know that sounds depressing and it sorta is, BUT I did not have to do all that work! So, the conclusion of all this is: GETTING OLD SUCKS!
This past weekend was knitting fun at Rolling Ridge. That was really fun. The weather was perfect and I got to bring Nestle who had a ball. All those laps to sit on! She was very well behaved (except for one little incident we don't need to mention). I hope to bring her again. I think she liked it. (Except for the modeling. She could have lived without that!)
We went to see "A Dickens of a Carol" on Sunday and it was great. It's one of those plays where the audience is sort of part of it. It included dinner which was much better than either Frank or I expected. We loved it. We went with 3 other women and spouses from my book club.
Not much knitting to report due to the knitters elbow injury. I have one or two pairs of slippers to finish. I lost and found my quivit. That was scary. I may start the pretty thing cowl while I am off. I started a scarf that is much more difficult than it should be.
We did try the knitting machine I bought at a yard sale. Ended up throwing it out. Even Denise could not figure it out and it kept breaking. Oh well, I tried.
Knitting tonight. We are having a Christmas party. I even brought a gift to give away. Should be fun!!!!
Monday, December 7, 2009
MONDAY, MONDAY - YOU ARE NO FUN
Why does time pass so slowly at work and so quickly over the weekends? Has anyone figured out what makes the clocks run faster on Saturday and Sundays? I think that would be a good thing to study. Let's all write Congress.
We had our first snow of the season on Saturday. Once again the weathermen had it wrong. It was supposed to start late afternoon so of course it started at 9:30 am. I was on my way to the annual Holiday Mart and decided to go anyway. The drive home was an adventure and then I had to take Frank to the airport. (HA HA - he went to Las Vegas to escape winter. Joke is on him - their temps are almost as low as ours (highs in the low 50's or high 40's)
This is my week all to myself. I won't be home to enjoy much of it, though. I am off to Rolling Ridge for the weekend. I just hope it does not snow. Frank thought I should drive his car since it has AWD but I hate his car. It is filthy and it smells! Nestle is coming with me so I am excited about that. I am not even sure dogs are allowed there but better to apologize later than to ask and be screwed since I have no one to watch her!
Christmas shopping is slow. The girls are done but I still have some people left. Zhenya is coming on 1/1/10 so I have to get her something. I need to wrap and mail Becky and Shawn's stuff as well as Jakes. Lots of mail to get out. I have to wrap Karen and Anita's gifts for our dinner on the 22nd. AND I have NO idea what to get Frank. He is so very difficult to buy for.
Did you watch Desperate Housewives last night? It was a real good show. I now wonder who is going to die? I should never have stayed up, though. I don't think I got 4 hours sleep last night. That's tough for anyone but especially an oldie like me.
OOH, I think I nodded off there. Gee, I even bore myself. So, on that note, I will end here. Say goodnight, Gracie. Goodnight, Gracie!
We had our first snow of the season on Saturday. Once again the weathermen had it wrong. It was supposed to start late afternoon so of course it started at 9:30 am. I was on my way to the annual Holiday Mart and decided to go anyway. The drive home was an adventure and then I had to take Frank to the airport. (HA HA - he went to Las Vegas to escape winter. Joke is on him - their temps are almost as low as ours (highs in the low 50's or high 40's)
This is my week all to myself. I won't be home to enjoy much of it, though. I am off to Rolling Ridge for the weekend. I just hope it does not snow. Frank thought I should drive his car since it has AWD but I hate his car. It is filthy and it smells! Nestle is coming with me so I am excited about that. I am not even sure dogs are allowed there but better to apologize later than to ask and be screwed since I have no one to watch her!
Christmas shopping is slow. The girls are done but I still have some people left. Zhenya is coming on 1/1/10 so I have to get her something. I need to wrap and mail Becky and Shawn's stuff as well as Jakes. Lots of mail to get out. I have to wrap Karen and Anita's gifts for our dinner on the 22nd. AND I have NO idea what to get Frank. He is so very difficult to buy for.
Did you watch Desperate Housewives last night? It was a real good show. I now wonder who is going to die? I should never have stayed up, though. I don't think I got 4 hours sleep last night. That's tough for anyone but especially an oldie like me.
OOH, I think I nodded off there. Gee, I even bore myself. So, on that note, I will end here. Say goodnight, Gracie. Goodnight, Gracie!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
CAN'T KNIT?!!!!!!
The pain in my left elbow has gotten progressively worse over the last two months. My doctor is calling it knitting elbow because I don't play tennis. It got bad enough for me to email her about it. I can barely talk about the treatment. Ice, of course. Rest, of course. No knitting...WHAT? IMPOSSIBLE!!!!!
She suggests that I give it a rest. Does she realize it is less than 4 weeks to XMAS???????? Just give me a rope, let me hang myself now. No knitting...I cannot even process that.
So we compromised. I will knit less. I will wear a protective thingy. I will ice it a lot and use ibuprofin as much as I can tolerate. Hopefully this will work because the prospect of long term no knitting is just more than my brain can process.
I skipped knitting tonight...just too painful. All those women knitting away and me sitting in a corner doing just about nothing. Better to come home, put my jammies on and mope. Much better!
(Paragraph bitching about work removed due to troubles it could cause!)
Enough griping. So what's good going on? My house is back to almost normal. Frank leaves for a week in Vegas on Saturday and I have a week alone! Next weekend I get a knitting weekend at Rolling Ridge which will be hugely fun. Lots to look forward to. A whole week, just Nestle and me. YEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
She suggests that I give it a rest. Does she realize it is less than 4 weeks to XMAS???????? Just give me a rope, let me hang myself now. No knitting...I cannot even process that.
So we compromised. I will knit less. I will wear a protective thingy. I will ice it a lot and use ibuprofin as much as I can tolerate. Hopefully this will work because the prospect of long term no knitting is just more than my brain can process.
I skipped knitting tonight...just too painful. All those women knitting away and me sitting in a corner doing just about nothing. Better to come home, put my jammies on and mope. Much better!
(Paragraph bitching about work removed due to troubles it could cause!)
Enough griping. So what's good going on? My house is back to almost normal. Frank leaves for a week in Vegas on Saturday and I have a week alone! Next weekend I get a knitting weekend at Rolling Ridge which will be hugely fun. Lots to look forward to. A whole week, just Nestle and me. YEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Monday, November 30, 2009
ONE BIG HOLIDAY JUST ABOUT OVER - SURVIVED IT!!!
We had a houseful this Thanksgiving. Carol was here with the two granddaughters, Cassidy (4) and Elizabeth (7). Mel was also here. That makes six people, 5 of them female, sharing 2 1/2 baths and 2 bedrooms and a basement. Poor Frank, even the dog is a female. Mel brought her dog, Teenie,a one year old Boston Terrier. Even she is a female!
Thanksgiving we had 12 people. Frank was getting a bit nervous because every day I seemed to add 'just one more' to the list. Food we had a plenty. Table space and chairs - not so much. When we got to a possible 13, well that was a problem since the table fit 12 uncomfortably, 13 not at all. But we stayed at a managable 12, even though I had 13 plates. That was a surprise. I thought I had 12, handed Mel all the plates and we were all VERY surprised when she had one left over. We counted those plates on the table at least 10 times. Can plates reproduce?
The dinner was excellent of course. Frank outdid himself once again. Besides Turkey etc we also had prime rib and grilled root veggies. Mary loved the veggies and thought we had made them just for her! Roger's pies were excellent as was the apple pie baked by Shel, Chip's girlfriend.
Normale also attended as well as my dad. I think he had a good time but all the people was a bit overwhelming for him. Mel brought him home right after dinner was finished.
We repeated the same thing the next night. Fred and family came over, and so did Sandy so we had 10 people. The table fits 10 comfortably. Frank made his turkey leftover dish and we served all the rest of the left overs. My brother had to leave fairly early. His back was really bad. But we got to visit with Dale and Sandy and that was fun.
Mel left yesterday and Carol and the kids leave tomorrow. I will miss them and be glad to have my peace and quiet back. Frank leaves on Saturday for Vegas so I will have a whole week to myself. YEH!!!
Only sad part - no Becky and Shawn. I know they had a super weekend in Texas and i know having them here would have been super hectic, but still it would have been nice. Everyone all at once. That and Brad coming too would have been perfect.
Mel and I decided - next year we all go to Texas. We even have the bed assignments all worked out. See you next year, Shawn and Becky!!!!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEL!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanksgiving we had 12 people. Frank was getting a bit nervous because every day I seemed to add 'just one more' to the list. Food we had a plenty. Table space and chairs - not so much. When we got to a possible 13, well that was a problem since the table fit 12 uncomfortably, 13 not at all. But we stayed at a managable 12, even though I had 13 plates. That was a surprise. I thought I had 12, handed Mel all the plates and we were all VERY surprised when she had one left over. We counted those plates on the table at least 10 times. Can plates reproduce?
The dinner was excellent of course. Frank outdid himself once again. Besides Turkey etc we also had prime rib and grilled root veggies. Mary loved the veggies and thought we had made them just for her! Roger's pies were excellent as was the apple pie baked by Shel, Chip's girlfriend.
Normale also attended as well as my dad. I think he had a good time but all the people was a bit overwhelming for him. Mel brought him home right after dinner was finished.
We repeated the same thing the next night. Fred and family came over, and so did Sandy so we had 10 people. The table fits 10 comfortably. Frank made his turkey leftover dish and we served all the rest of the left overs. My brother had to leave fairly early. His back was really bad. But we got to visit with Dale and Sandy and that was fun.
Mel left yesterday and Carol and the kids leave tomorrow. I will miss them and be glad to have my peace and quiet back. Frank leaves on Saturday for Vegas so I will have a whole week to myself. YEH!!!
Only sad part - no Becky and Shawn. I know they had a super weekend in Texas and i know having them here would have been super hectic, but still it would have been nice. Everyone all at once. That and Brad coming too would have been perfect.
Mel and I decided - next year we all go to Texas. We even have the bed assignments all worked out. See you next year, Shawn and Becky!!!!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEL!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
HOME AT LAST
It was quite a week. I left on Friday for Seattle, a little nervous but very excited. I met three perfectly good strangers at the airport and we all shared a ride to Port Ludlow. Three of us knitted the whole way. (Can you guess which of us did not - I hope you guessed the driver, which for once was not me!)
One women was a scientist and mother from Indiana. The other two women were sisters, one from San Francisco and the other from New Jersey. We got pretty friendly very quickly but then...why not? We are knitters!
We took a ferry across the inlet which was a lot of fun. I have not been a ferry for a VERY LONG time. We got out of the car and went above to see the journey. We saw Orca's, at least five. It was wonderful. You gotta love a ferry ride. We arrived at the hotel around 4:30 and got freshened up for dinner.
The hotel room was so nice. A king size bed, fireplace and a huge soaking jacuzzi with windows that opened on to the hotel room. It also had robes to wear after your bath/shower. I did find a small tv but never turned it on. No need, really we were so busy who had time for tv?!
The weekend festivities started with dinner on Friday and just kept on going. We were busy from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm or later every day with a short breather before dinner each evening. The inn was delightful, the scenery gorgeous. I hope to post some photos.
The weather was cool but dry. I asked all the natives how they get even the weathermen to lie about the weather since rain was predicted for the whole weekend but it never rained until the day we left. Very tricky, these Seattleites!
Turns out I actually like dying yarn. I have no talent for it but it sure is fun. We learned a lot about how the different types of yarns take the yarn. We each got to dye six skeins of yarn, one if which was silk and another was the same as the yarn they use for socks that rock.
Stephanie's class was great. We learned about the history of yarn in the morning, learned what books we should have in our library (including an out of print one that would cost over $600 IF we could even find it!). In the afternoon, after learning that we all stank as knitters, we learned lever knitting. Very interesting method. We were told to practise every day for at least 28 days and the we would be much more comfortable with it. We shall see but so far I have not practised it.
Sunday night was show and tell which was amazing. Some people are VERY overachievers. Some of their "Firsts" were amazing. Most had great stories to go along with it. Much laughter was had. It was very sad when the evening was over. Everyone had such a fabulous time and Tina and Steph were very happy with our critiques of the weekend. They also said that there will be another sock summit in 2011, in Portland.
They have sock camps at Port Ludlow in April. They are five days long. Mel and I may go to one. We will assess it later.
I do not know where my brain was when I packed but I forgot to pack any long sleeve shirts. Thank goodness I packed the November shawl. It was the only thing to keep me warm! I even needed it the following week in Orlando because the hotel kept the temperature at sub zero!
It's good to be home and with family this week but it sure was fun in Port Ludlow!
One women was a scientist and mother from Indiana. The other two women were sisters, one from San Francisco and the other from New Jersey. We got pretty friendly very quickly but then...why not? We are knitters!
We took a ferry across the inlet which was a lot of fun. I have not been a ferry for a VERY LONG time. We got out of the car and went above to see the journey. We saw Orca's, at least five. It was wonderful. You gotta love a ferry ride. We arrived at the hotel around 4:30 and got freshened up for dinner.
The hotel room was so nice. A king size bed, fireplace and a huge soaking jacuzzi with windows that opened on to the hotel room. It also had robes to wear after your bath/shower. I did find a small tv but never turned it on. No need, really we were so busy who had time for tv?!
The weekend festivities started with dinner on Friday and just kept on going. We were busy from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm or later every day with a short breather before dinner each evening. The inn was delightful, the scenery gorgeous. I hope to post some photos.
The weather was cool but dry. I asked all the natives how they get even the weathermen to lie about the weather since rain was predicted for the whole weekend but it never rained until the day we left. Very tricky, these Seattleites!
Turns out I actually like dying yarn. I have no talent for it but it sure is fun. We learned a lot about how the different types of yarns take the yarn. We each got to dye six skeins of yarn, one if which was silk and another was the same as the yarn they use for socks that rock.
Stephanie's class was great. We learned about the history of yarn in the morning, learned what books we should have in our library (including an out of print one that would cost over $600 IF we could even find it!). In the afternoon, after learning that we all stank as knitters, we learned lever knitting. Very interesting method. We were told to practise every day for at least 28 days and the we would be much more comfortable with it. We shall see but so far I have not practised it.
Sunday night was show and tell which was amazing. Some people are VERY overachievers. Some of their "Firsts" were amazing. Most had great stories to go along with it. Much laughter was had. It was very sad when the evening was over. Everyone had such a fabulous time and Tina and Steph were very happy with our critiques of the weekend. They also said that there will be another sock summit in 2011, in Portland.
They have sock camps at Port Ludlow in April. They are five days long. Mel and I may go to one. We will assess it later.
I do not know where my brain was when I packed but I forgot to pack any long sleeve shirts. Thank goodness I packed the November shawl. It was the only thing to keep me warm! I even needed it the following week in Orlando because the hotel kept the temperature at sub zero!
It's good to be home and with family this week but it sure was fun in Port Ludlow!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, Monday - Can't Trust That Day
Although the date for this is November 24th, it was really written on November 9th.
Monday and all is well....right? Nope! Work is not going well because the computer refuses to work. No surprise there. Work IT motto : Yesterday's Technology Tomorrow. Oh, boy that could not be more accurate today. These computers SUCK. And I have so much to do since I am only working 3 days this week and then it is off to Seattle.
I am so nervous about this retreat. And excited. And nervous. This is out of my comfort zone, for sure. A small group of women, only 40, meeting two knitting icons. Then we are going to do show and tell. SHOW AND TELL! Well, I will do more telling than showing, that is for sure. First off I have no room in my suitcase for show and secondly, I keep almost nothing of what I make. The only thing to bring are photos and socks.
After Seattle and their cool temps in the 40's I fly directly to Orlando where there temps are in the 80's! That means two different wardrobes have to go with me. I only hope I can keep it to one suitcase and my knitting bag.
Then, to top it all off, my left elbow pain is NOT going away and I am fearful that it will get worse this weekend from knitting a lot. I am doing the stretching exercises, and the heat packs and trying not to knit much. I did not knit all week but could not do 1 1/2 hours of church yesterday without it. Plus tonight
I have my last class on the purse I am making. Hopefully the kits for the slippers will come before I leave so I can bring those with me.
Monday and all is well....right? Nope! Work is not going well because the computer refuses to work. No surprise there. Work IT motto : Yesterday's Technology Tomorrow. Oh, boy that could not be more accurate today. These computers SUCK. And I have so much to do since I am only working 3 days this week and then it is off to Seattle.
I am so nervous about this retreat. And excited. And nervous. This is out of my comfort zone, for sure. A small group of women, only 40, meeting two knitting icons. Then we are going to do show and tell. SHOW AND TELL! Well, I will do more telling than showing, that is for sure. First off I have no room in my suitcase for show and secondly, I keep almost nothing of what I make. The only thing to bring are photos and socks.
After Seattle and their cool temps in the 40's I fly directly to Orlando where there temps are in the 80's! That means two different wardrobes have to go with me. I only hope I can keep it to one suitcase and my knitting bag.
Then, to top it all off, my left elbow pain is NOT going away and I am fearful that it will get worse this weekend from knitting a lot. I am doing the stretching exercises, and the heat packs and trying not to knit much. I did not knit all week but could not do 1 1/2 hours of church yesterday without it. Plus tonight
I have my last class on the purse I am making. Hopefully the kits for the slippers will come before I leave so I can bring those with me.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Hello, Anyone Out There?
I have been blogging for a little over 2 month's, I think, and by my calculations I have about 4 people who say they are reading this. So far I have had no comments so maybe it's just me out here. That's okay, really. It's just that the yarn harlot has, oh you know, like HUNDREDS of comments. I could use one, just to keep me going, if you know what I mean. Just to know someone cares. Just to know you really are reading this.
Oh, come on. What's one little comment? All it would take would be a minute or two. Just say hi, or please stop writing this blog, or whatever. It won't kill you!
So, here's the thing. Did I raise your guilt level? I used to be very good at that but not so much now. My girls see right through me. They even laugh at me when I try. That's good because most of the time, if not all the time, okay not all the time, I am just kidding. I like to tease my kids. I think they don't mind, but if they do, THIS IS THE TIME TO LEAVE A COMMENT.
Oh, are we back to that? Why, yes we are. So, here is the $1,000,000 question. ARE YOU OUT THERE?
Oh, come on. What's one little comment? All it would take would be a minute or two. Just say hi, or please stop writing this blog, or whatever. It won't kill you!
So, here's the thing. Did I raise your guilt level? I used to be very good at that but not so much now. My girls see right through me. They even laugh at me when I try. That's good because most of the time, if not all the time, okay not all the time, I am just kidding. I like to tease my kids. I think they don't mind, but if they do, THIS IS THE TIME TO LEAVE A COMMENT.
Oh, are we back to that? Why, yes we are. So, here is the $1,000,000 question. ARE YOU OUT THERE?
Saturday, October 31, 2009
ISTJ
My myers-briggs is/was? ISTJ. This means that I am an introverted sensing thinking judging person. Per a description on the web of an ISTJ, my primary mode of living is focused internally, where I take things in via my five senses in a literal, concrete fashion. My secondary mode is external, where I deal with things rationally and logically. I am supposedly quiet and reserved (REALLY?) and am interested in security and peaceful living. I am supposedly organized (have you seen my craft room?) and have a serious air making me successful.
I know I am an introvert because I am more comfortable alone than with others. It's not that I don't like being with other people. It's just that to do that takes a lot of energy for me and is out of my comfort range. If I am in a group where I know everyone, then it gets a bit easier.
I also know that I do not like surprises. I like knowing what the future holds. I am a list maker, am task orientated and have a need to acomplish something. I do 2-3 things at a time and cannot just 'sit'. Meditation is impossible for me because my mind does not rest. Sleep is illusive for the same reason. (That and menopause!)
So I married someone who is almost the complete opposite of me. Frank is an ENFJ. Thank God we are both J's because without that in common we would have killed each other by now. The fact that he is a much stronger J than me almost did us in at the beginning of our marriage but we have learned to compensate for that now. I no longer give vague approval to ANYTHING because he will take that for a yes and go forth. I have learned that he does not understand a women's right to change her mind and that if I say yes it does not mean YES. I ended up in Las Vegas once because of that.
So, all this is leading somewhere and as soon as I figure that out I will fill you in. Right now I am just trying to figure me out. Like, why do I travel when it is so beyond my comfort zone? Why do I agree to do so much when clearly I do not want to say yes? (I'm getting better at that one. I can say no a lot now!) Why am I in a book club when I really don't want to read the books? WHY?
Oh well, so many questions so little answers. Perhaps the answers will come forth in the future. For now I will keep on knitting and find peace through that.
I know I am an introvert because I am more comfortable alone than with others. It's not that I don't like being with other people. It's just that to do that takes a lot of energy for me and is out of my comfort range. If I am in a group where I know everyone, then it gets a bit easier.
I also know that I do not like surprises. I like knowing what the future holds. I am a list maker, am task orientated and have a need to acomplish something. I do 2-3 things at a time and cannot just 'sit'. Meditation is impossible for me because my mind does not rest. Sleep is illusive for the same reason. (That and menopause!)
So I married someone who is almost the complete opposite of me. Frank is an ENFJ. Thank God we are both J's because without that in common we would have killed each other by now. The fact that he is a much stronger J than me almost did us in at the beginning of our marriage but we have learned to compensate for that now. I no longer give vague approval to ANYTHING because he will take that for a yes and go forth. I have learned that he does not understand a women's right to change her mind and that if I say yes it does not mean YES. I ended up in Las Vegas once because of that.
So, all this is leading somewhere and as soon as I figure that out I will fill you in. Right now I am just trying to figure me out. Like, why do I travel when it is so beyond my comfort zone? Why do I agree to do so much when clearly I do not want to say yes? (I'm getting better at that one. I can say no a lot now!) Why am I in a book club when I really don't want to read the books? WHY?
Oh well, so many questions so little answers. Perhaps the answers will come forth in the future. For now I will keep on knitting and find peace through that.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday? Already?
How can it be Monday already? How come Saturday and Sunday go by so much faster than a Monday or a Tuesday or definately the never ending Friday. I just don't get it! I got nothing done and my ambitions were so high for the weekend. My craft room is still a mess, I got none of my reading done and very little of my knitting. What the heck did I do all weekend????? Apparantly, very little.
I have all that Christmas knitting to do, all those slippers to make. At least they only take about 4 hours per pair but I won't do the math for 9 pairs because that will disturb me. Instead I will just think about how they will keep me busy on the bus going home. Oh, and then I have to do the million rows of garter stitch for the bag I am making in the class I am taking. At least that can be done while I also read, thereby killing two birds with one stone. I can read the book I need to read for bookclub and knit at the same time!
I still have no gift ideas for my husband. The ring he lost is just too darn expensive to replace. He is so difficult to buy for. I wish he would give some hints but he's not really good at that. The best thing I can do is walk the mall with him and see what he admires. That works sometimes!
A little bit more than two weeks until I leave for my knitting retreat in Seattle. I am trying to decide what clothes and shoes I won't mind throwing out after the dying class. I am so excited about this. I cannot believe I am going to spend a weekend with the Yarn Harlot and Tina from Blue Moon Fiber. I can hardly wait!
Did the greeter thing at KC this weekend. I hate doing it but Frank says I am so sincere. I guess I am a better actor than I thought. Actually when I am there doing it I don't mind but since I really did not want to go to church this Sunday it was a drag. I did leave as soon as table talk started, something I have never done before. I don't know what is going on but that is not the place I want to be these days. I guess I need to explore those feelings.
Next Sunday I am having breakfast with my brother so that should be fun. I may go to church afterwards if we get done early enough. I did that the last time we went out. Maybe this time we will invite the spouses. I'll check with him on that.
Only work four days this week, WAHOO! Those five day weeks are killers. How soon can I retire?
I have all that Christmas knitting to do, all those slippers to make. At least they only take about 4 hours per pair but I won't do the math for 9 pairs because that will disturb me. Instead I will just think about how they will keep me busy on the bus going home. Oh, and then I have to do the million rows of garter stitch for the bag I am making in the class I am taking. At least that can be done while I also read, thereby killing two birds with one stone. I can read the book I need to read for bookclub and knit at the same time!
I still have no gift ideas for my husband. The ring he lost is just too darn expensive to replace. He is so difficult to buy for. I wish he would give some hints but he's not really good at that. The best thing I can do is walk the mall with him and see what he admires. That works sometimes!
A little bit more than two weeks until I leave for my knitting retreat in Seattle. I am trying to decide what clothes and shoes I won't mind throwing out after the dying class. I am so excited about this. I cannot believe I am going to spend a weekend with the Yarn Harlot and Tina from Blue Moon Fiber. I can hardly wait!
Did the greeter thing at KC this weekend. I hate doing it but Frank says I am so sincere. I guess I am a better actor than I thought. Actually when I am there doing it I don't mind but since I really did not want to go to church this Sunday it was a drag. I did leave as soon as table talk started, something I have never done before. I don't know what is going on but that is not the place I want to be these days. I guess I need to explore those feelings.
Next Sunday I am having breakfast with my brother so that should be fun. I may go to church afterwards if we get done early enough. I did that the last time we went out. Maybe this time we will invite the spouses. I'll check with him on that.
Only work four days this week, WAHOO! Those five day weeks are killers. How soon can I retire?
Friday, October 23, 2009
FIVE DAY WORK WEEK STINKS
OMG- it is finally Friday. Working five days in a row is not a good thing. I really am spoiled with the four day thing and really dislike it when I have a five day work week. Not that it happens all that often, but still I would prefer it never happened. It interferes with my real life way too much.
I was going to go to the fiber festival in Berryville, VA tomorrow but the weather is looking not good (rain all day), plus, let's face it, I really don't need to add to the stash. I believe I have plenty to work with at this point. So, tomorrow will be a quiet day at home, cleaning up the craft room, knitting and catching up on TV shows. Frank will be out all day cooking for the 40th KC anniversary party so I'll have the house all to myself. YEH! (Nestle and I will have quality time together!)
I am going to Sat morning knitting, though. I missed it on Wed. due to errands that needed running and pure exhaustion. I really need to catch up on sleep. This morning I asked the woman sitting next to me to wake me up before our stop. Thank goodness I did, because otherwise I would have overslept again.
I hope my new yarn comes this weekend so I can start the bookclub slippers. I want to make those ASAP and cross those off my list. I may try to continue ahead on my felted purse. Class 2 is Monday but I think I understand the next step and it would give me a heads up. There is a lot to knit between class 2 and 3, even if there is two weeks between them!
Five more hours, then home. HIP HIP HOORAY!
I was going to go to the fiber festival in Berryville, VA tomorrow but the weather is looking not good (rain all day), plus, let's face it, I really don't need to add to the stash. I believe I have plenty to work with at this point. So, tomorrow will be a quiet day at home, cleaning up the craft room, knitting and catching up on TV shows. Frank will be out all day cooking for the 40th KC anniversary party so I'll have the house all to myself. YEH! (Nestle and I will have quality time together!)
I am going to Sat morning knitting, though. I missed it on Wed. due to errands that needed running and pure exhaustion. I really need to catch up on sleep. This morning I asked the woman sitting next to me to wake me up before our stop. Thank goodness I did, because otherwise I would have overslept again.
I hope my new yarn comes this weekend so I can start the bookclub slippers. I want to make those ASAP and cross those off my list. I may try to continue ahead on my felted purse. Class 2 is Monday but I think I understand the next step and it would give me a heads up. There is a lot to knit between class 2 and 3, even if there is two weeks between them!
Five more hours, then home. HIP HIP HOORAY!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
NOPE-STILL NOT A CROCHETER
So, remember I said I had to buy the yarn for the crocheted afghan I loved so much? Well, I did buy the yarn at Joanne's Wed night so I could bring it on the retreat. However, I have tried to crochet before AND I really did not care who made the blanket, as long as it got made so... I called my sister-in-law who agreed to make the blanket if things did not work out. (I always like a back up plan!)
Well, I gave it about a 1/2 hour effort. I tried it left handed and right handed and never really got the hang of it. I am sure, as everyone pointed out, that I should have spent more than 1/2 hour trying but really... I did not like it and I was losing valuable knitting time. So off to Barbara the yarn goes. I did call her on Sunday and told her I still hated to Crochet. She just laughed and told me to bring it on over. I suspect that was my plan all along but you'll never get me to admit it again!
Now I have to start planning what to bring to Seattle next month. I am told to bring 'dying' clothes and shoes. That shouldn't be too hard to find. Since the dye is permanent we have to bring stuff that can be trashed. I have lots of that. I can't remember what to bring for Steph's class but I have the list at home. I knit sort of continental/throw so it should be interesting to see what she says when she critiques me.
Miranda is having a scrap party this Saturday and I can't go. Boo hoo! I have my church's 40th anniversary party and since my husband is cooking I need to go. Oh well, next time. Something I ordered for Becky regarding scrapping will be in for Christmas so that helps me finish up shopping for her. It's not a "them" present, though, so I still need to find something for her BF.
What a week - I have to work all 5 days! This working thing really gets into the way of my real life. Gotta work on that!
Well, I gave it about a 1/2 hour effort. I tried it left handed and right handed and never really got the hang of it. I am sure, as everyone pointed out, that I should have spent more than 1/2 hour trying but really... I did not like it and I was losing valuable knitting time. So off to Barbara the yarn goes. I did call her on Sunday and told her I still hated to Crochet. She just laughed and told me to bring it on over. I suspect that was my plan all along but you'll never get me to admit it again!
Now I have to start planning what to bring to Seattle next month. I am told to bring 'dying' clothes and shoes. That shouldn't be too hard to find. Since the dye is permanent we have to bring stuff that can be trashed. I have lots of that. I can't remember what to bring for Steph's class but I have the list at home. I knit sort of continental/throw so it should be interesting to see what she says when she critiques me.
Miranda is having a scrap party this Saturday and I can't go. Boo hoo! I have my church's 40th anniversary party and since my husband is cooking I need to go. Oh well, next time. Something I ordered for Becky regarding scrapping will be in for Christmas so that helps me finish up shopping for her. It's not a "them" present, though, so I still need to find something for her BF.
What a week - I have to work all 5 days! This working thing really gets into the way of my real life. Gotta work on that!
Monday, October 19, 2009
WHAT A WEEKEND
I just spent the best four days. Thirteen women met in Harpers Ferry, VA at the Rolling Ridge Retreat Center for a knitting get away. It was fabulous. Much laughter, good times, funny stories, some serious talk. Thirteen women! I bet the men's ears were a burnin!
Denise and I packed the car to the hilt but actually had plenty of room because we never got a third rider. We left at 10 am Thursday and went to Eleganza in Frederick for our first yarn store stop. I purchased some yarn to make Becky's fingerless gloves. Very interesting fiber. It is made of sugar cane and can actually be eaten if necessary. (Or so they told me but then I am extremely gullible!) I wanted something light for her since it is for indoor use only. Eleganza was expecting us and they very generously gave us 10% off.
Then we were off to WV. We stopped at WalMart for the perishables where I was able to buy a $2.50 pillow because I forgot mine. Pretty good, though. That is all I forgot!
Everyone waited for me on mission road and then we did a caravan to the retreat house. It was raining so the road was a little slick, but nothing to worry about. I am sure the 'newbies' thought we were going somewhere really strange, given that it feels like the road to nowhere.
Everyone unpacked, picked a room and started knitting. Lunch was pizza or whatever. Denise set up the projector and we were off to watching Lucy Neatby. Oh, she is a sleeper. Within 15 minutes Lynn was sound asleep with others on their way. She teaches neat stuff but her voice is the kind that relaxes you straight to la la land!
Thursday and Friday were spent knitting with everyone just getting to know each other, sharing projects etc. Very relaxing, to the point that some of us never got out of our jammies on Friday. We never did make it to the art cottage, which does have heat. We were just too comfy in the living room. (Denise and I slept in the library. Much better than the art cottage in the rain!)
Saturday was our trip to Winchester which we enjoyed immensely despite the continuing rain. We visited the local yarn store and spent our wads! She made some serious money off of us. They very generously gave us 10% off too. I love that yarn store for both what they carry and how they display it. Plus the women who worked there were both friendly and VERY helpful. I bought wool for these adorable booties that I am going to make each of my book club members and I also bought wool for a gorgeous shawl I saw.
We went to the bead store where I bought beads to make Mel some stitch markers and then to lunch. Had some drama but all worked out. Lunch was delicious. Downtown Winchester is adorable and would have been much more enjoyable in dry weather.
Of course, on Sunday, when it was time to leave, it finally stopped raining. Clean up was chaotic once again but worked out fine. We were gone by 12:30, all wishing we could stay if not forever, then for a much longer time.
Denise and I packed the car to the hilt but actually had plenty of room because we never got a third rider. We left at 10 am Thursday and went to Eleganza in Frederick for our first yarn store stop. I purchased some yarn to make Becky's fingerless gloves. Very interesting fiber. It is made of sugar cane and can actually be eaten if necessary. (Or so they told me but then I am extremely gullible!) I wanted something light for her since it is for indoor use only. Eleganza was expecting us and they very generously gave us 10% off.
Then we were off to WV. We stopped at WalMart for the perishables where I was able to buy a $2.50 pillow because I forgot mine. Pretty good, though. That is all I forgot!
Everyone waited for me on mission road and then we did a caravan to the retreat house. It was raining so the road was a little slick, but nothing to worry about. I am sure the 'newbies' thought we were going somewhere really strange, given that it feels like the road to nowhere.
Everyone unpacked, picked a room and started knitting. Lunch was pizza or whatever. Denise set up the projector and we were off to watching Lucy Neatby. Oh, she is a sleeper. Within 15 minutes Lynn was sound asleep with others on their way. She teaches neat stuff but her voice is the kind that relaxes you straight to la la land!
Thursday and Friday were spent knitting with everyone just getting to know each other, sharing projects etc. Very relaxing, to the point that some of us never got out of our jammies on Friday. We never did make it to the art cottage, which does have heat. We were just too comfy in the living room. (Denise and I slept in the library. Much better than the art cottage in the rain!)
Saturday was our trip to Winchester which we enjoyed immensely despite the continuing rain. We visited the local yarn store and spent our wads! She made some serious money off of us. They very generously gave us 10% off too. I love that yarn store for both what they carry and how they display it. Plus the women who worked there were both friendly and VERY helpful. I bought wool for these adorable booties that I am going to make each of my book club members and I also bought wool for a gorgeous shawl I saw.
We went to the bead store where I bought beads to make Mel some stitch markers and then to lunch. Had some drama but all worked out. Lunch was delicious. Downtown Winchester is adorable and would have been much more enjoyable in dry weather.
Of course, on Sunday, when it was time to leave, it finally stopped raining. Clean up was chaotic once again but worked out fine. We were gone by 12:30, all wishing we could stay if not forever, then for a much longer time.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
THREE MORE HOURS BUT WHO'S COUNTING---ME!
Turns out I went to the doctor yesterday. The rash got so big I wanted to be sure it wasn't cellulitis. It wasn't but she recommend a steroid treatment because the benadryl was too hard for me to take and could not work very quickly if I took the non sleepy variety. SO...I took the steroid and it is working. The rash is much smaller HOWEVER the side effects are not fun. I woke up at 2:45 ready to go. Wide awake and no where to go! I finally got up at 4 am and left the house at 4:30 am. Since I take a 5:30 bus I was pretty sure I would be the first one on line. NOPE! There were TWO people in front of me. DO they SLEEP there?
Actually we don't really line up. We put some possession of ours, like an umbrella or newspaper, there to hold our place. Then we wait in our car until about 5:25. Some people leave some really interesting items. One guy leaves a block of wood, a woman leaves a rubber toy, some leave their briefcase and others leave water. Quite interesting. What really fascinates me, though, is that the next bus is at 5:40 and people start lining up for that one at 5:15. If there is room on my 5:30 bus I wonder why they just don't take the earlier one. Oh well, I am sure it makes some kind of sense to them. Lots of times my bus is full and some of the people on line have to take the next one. That's why we get there early, so that doesn't happen to us. If I take the later bus it would be real close, my getting to work on time.
Lots to do tonight. I have to pack and remember my air mattress and a very warm sleeping bag since I am going to try and sleep in the art building which has no heat. Then I have to have a cooking lesson from Frank so I know how to warm up the food. And before all this I hope to go to knitting at Panera tonight. Oh yeh - I also have to get over to JoAnne's to buy the wool and crochet needle for the blanket I want Denise to teach me how to knit. So much to do and so little time but since I am so hyper from the steroids I can probably go with little to no sleep tonight!
So back to work so I can take the next two days off guilt free. Not really all that possible for me but I will do my best.
Actually we don't really line up. We put some possession of ours, like an umbrella or newspaper, there to hold our place. Then we wait in our car until about 5:25. Some people leave some really interesting items. One guy leaves a block of wood, a woman leaves a rubber toy, some leave their briefcase and others leave water. Quite interesting. What really fascinates me, though, is that the next bus is at 5:40 and people start lining up for that one at 5:15. If there is room on my 5:30 bus I wonder why they just don't take the earlier one. Oh well, I am sure it makes some kind of sense to them. Lots of times my bus is full and some of the people on line have to take the next one. That's why we get there early, so that doesn't happen to us. If I take the later bus it would be real close, my getting to work on time.
Lots to do tonight. I have to pack and remember my air mattress and a very warm sleeping bag since I am going to try and sleep in the art building which has no heat. Then I have to have a cooking lesson from Frank so I know how to warm up the food. And before all this I hope to go to knitting at Panera tonight. Oh yeh - I also have to get over to JoAnne's to buy the wool and crochet needle for the blanket I want Denise to teach me how to knit. So much to do and so little time but since I am so hyper from the steroids I can probably go with little to no sleep tonight!
So back to work so I can take the next two days off guilt free. Not really all that possible for me but I will do my best.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
TWO DAY WORK WEEK
I am a happy camper today because I only have to work today and tomorrow and then I am off 'til Monday!!!!!! Yesterday was a holiday and this Thursday starts the knitting retreat at Rolling Ridge. It was so much fun last year, I cannot wait! The weather is not predicted to be good, rain most of the days, but heh - that just makes it an even better day for knitting!
Had a good weekend for the most part. Lots of much needed sleep, visiting friends and alone time with Nestle. I wish I could take her with me this weekend. She would have so much fun but someone may be allergic so no doggy!
Denise is going to attempt to teach me how to crochet. This should be interesting given that I am a lefty and will be crocheting backwards. Knitting right handed is okay since technically you use both hands, but using only my right hand? I don't think so!
Frank has me planning vacations for next year already. We are going to Oceanside near San Diego for a week in May. I want a do-nothing, relaxing week. We shall see if that happens.
Yesterday I think I got bitten by a spider because I kept feeling like something like a splinter was in my thigh. When I checked I had a small, itchy rash there with what appeared to be bite. Did not think much of it, but when it was huge last night we called the doctor. She said it was an allergic reaction and to take benedryl. Well, the benedryl did very little and this rash, swollen area just keeps getting bigger. It is probably over 6-7 inches in diameter, very red and swollen. If it is not better by tomorrow I am going to go see her. She is not in today or I would go today.
More later!
Had a good weekend for the most part. Lots of much needed sleep, visiting friends and alone time with Nestle. I wish I could take her with me this weekend. She would have so much fun but someone may be allergic so no doggy!
Denise is going to attempt to teach me how to crochet. This should be interesting given that I am a lefty and will be crocheting backwards. Knitting right handed is okay since technically you use both hands, but using only my right hand? I don't think so!
Frank has me planning vacations for next year already. We are going to Oceanside near San Diego for a week in May. I want a do-nothing, relaxing week. We shall see if that happens.
Yesterday I think I got bitten by a spider because I kept feeling like something like a splinter was in my thigh. When I checked I had a small, itchy rash there with what appeared to be bite. Did not think much of it, but when it was huge last night we called the doctor. She said it was an allergic reaction and to take benedryl. Well, the benedryl did very little and this rash, swollen area just keeps getting bigger. It is probably over 6-7 inches in diameter, very red and swollen. If it is not better by tomorrow I am going to go see her. She is not in today or I would go today.
More later!
Friday, October 9, 2009
TGIF
This has been a week! I had to stay up WAY past my bedtime last night to watch Grey's Anatomy because our DVR is broken and the new one has not arrived yet. Great show but I paid the price this morning. I once again overshot (Slept thru) my bus stop. Woke up on the bus and had no idea where I was. Turns out I was, once again, at 14th and Constitution. So, off I hopped and had to walk back the four blocks to 10th. When will I ever learn!
This is a holiday weekend so with Monday off and the knitting retreat next weekend, well I only work TWO days next week. That's my kinda work schedule!
The instructions came from Tina for the Knot Hysteria retreat in November. I still cannot believe I am going. Two days with Tina and Stephanie. It will be so super. Four of us are meeting at the airport and sharing a car. Port Ludlow is at least two hours from SEATAC so this works out best. I never met them, except through Ravelry. How neat that we can do this.
I am tentatively going to a scrap book retreat in June 2010 in Tucson, AZ. Karen C has agreed to join me. Her daughter lives there so it was pretty easy to get her to agree. I am hoping Becky can join us but if not, she and I will go to some other retreat together. Holly P, my friend from the cruise, told me about it and she will also be there.
Nestle is going to the vet on Monday. I get my flu shot at my doctor and then on to the vet. Nestle likes the vet's office until it is time to go in the exam room. Then she shakes all over. I hate to watch her get shots etc. Gotta do it, though.
Lunch with Linda L on Monday down in Silver Spring. We are going to visit a yarn store first. Should be fun! She has big news to tell me. Can't wait to hear what it is.
Three more hours and then I go home, but who's counting. Oh...that would be me!!!!! Retirement cannot come soon enough.
This is a holiday weekend so with Monday off and the knitting retreat next weekend, well I only work TWO days next week. That's my kinda work schedule!
The instructions came from Tina for the Knot Hysteria retreat in November. I still cannot believe I am going. Two days with Tina and Stephanie. It will be so super. Four of us are meeting at the airport and sharing a car. Port Ludlow is at least two hours from SEATAC so this works out best. I never met them, except through Ravelry. How neat that we can do this.
I am tentatively going to a scrap book retreat in June 2010 in Tucson, AZ. Karen C has agreed to join me. Her daughter lives there so it was pretty easy to get her to agree. I am hoping Becky can join us but if not, she and I will go to some other retreat together. Holly P, my friend from the cruise, told me about it and she will also be there.
Nestle is going to the vet on Monday. I get my flu shot at my doctor and then on to the vet. Nestle likes the vet's office until it is time to go in the exam room. Then she shakes all over. I hate to watch her get shots etc. Gotta do it, though.
Lunch with Linda L on Monday down in Silver Spring. We are going to visit a yarn store first. Should be fun! She has big news to tell me. Can't wait to hear what it is.
Three more hours and then I go home, but who's counting. Oh...that would be me!!!!! Retirement cannot come soon enough.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
HOME AGAIN
Houston was hot! Despite Becky's many promises, it was HOT and HUMID. So, no more visits to Houston in the fall. Visits will only take place in the January-February time frame. Perhaps by then the temps will be below 80. The funny part is, they thought it was cool and nice. I guess all that heat effects your mind, because anyone in their right mind would know it was HOT!
Their house is beautiful and for an insane, very short moment, I toyed with the idea of looking into moving there to be closer to at least one child. As I said, the thought was fleeting and sanity quickly returned. How I, the person who cannot be happy with any temps above 70 degrees, could even consider it is beyond my understanding. I mean, I love my daughter but... without grandchildren to lure me, she can come visit me!
We did a very quick visit to San Antonio. The walking and the heat got to both Frank and I so we had to leave earlier than anticipated. Still, Frank got to see the Alamo and a little of River Walk so he was happy. I love San Antonio but it is about as hot and humid as Houston.
Saturday Becky and I had our toesies done. We had the pedicure to die for! It was wonderful. The deluxe included the paraffin wax, the massage etc but the best part was the hot rocks. I had never had that before. By the time we left we could barely walk because our legs felt like wet noodles. Even the chairs were different. That massage chair even massaged our butts!
On to Kohl's we went with a 30% off coupon. We did some major damage, mostly me. I needed all new winter clothes and buying them in Houston was very smart on my part since they did not have a lot of sweaters and heavy pants. I can't wear real heavy clothes so it helped to shop where the climate is a bit ( did I just say a bit?!) cooler in the winter. (Their two week winter!)
Thankfully I had bought a suitcase with a gift for Shawn so that left me with an empty suitcase to put all the clothes I bought in. Worked out perfectly.
Becky managed to get some stuff too and since it was my coupon, welllll.... it had to go on my credit card. How lucky was she?! We got matching slippers but since we live so far away it should be fine. Unless she really does come for Thanksgiving and brings them. There could be trouble then but hers are too small for me.
Sunday Frank made breakfast and dinner for us. Shawn's mother and brother joined us for dinner and we had a delicious meal. It rained on and off but that only made it more humid. I did get to try out the hammock that I gave them as a house warming gift and it was wonderful. So comfy. Needed help to get out of it, though. Shawn's brother helped me out while Shawn watched. He was still too busy chuckling over me stepping onto the grass to walk to the hammock and practically sinking. The grass was very wet from the rain so I sank in to almost above my toes!
Trip home was fairly uneventful. Nestle was VERY happy to see us. Normale informed me that Nestle likes peanut butter on her food. No wonder she loves the spa so much. Between Normale and Lynn she was NEVER without a lap to sleep on.
So back to work it is. Oh well, it could be worse. At least I like my job. No knitting tonight. A couple we met on our South American cruise will be here tonight so we are meeting them for dinner. Should be nice.
Their house is beautiful and for an insane, very short moment, I toyed with the idea of looking into moving there to be closer to at least one child. As I said, the thought was fleeting and sanity quickly returned. How I, the person who cannot be happy with any temps above 70 degrees, could even consider it is beyond my understanding. I mean, I love my daughter but... without grandchildren to lure me, she can come visit me!
We did a very quick visit to San Antonio. The walking and the heat got to both Frank and I so we had to leave earlier than anticipated. Still, Frank got to see the Alamo and a little of River Walk so he was happy. I love San Antonio but it is about as hot and humid as Houston.
Saturday Becky and I had our toesies done. We had the pedicure to die for! It was wonderful. The deluxe included the paraffin wax, the massage etc but the best part was the hot rocks. I had never had that before. By the time we left we could barely walk because our legs felt like wet noodles. Even the chairs were different. That massage chair even massaged our butts!
On to Kohl's we went with a 30% off coupon. We did some major damage, mostly me. I needed all new winter clothes and buying them in Houston was very smart on my part since they did not have a lot of sweaters and heavy pants. I can't wear real heavy clothes so it helped to shop where the climate is a bit ( did I just say a bit?!) cooler in the winter. (Their two week winter!)
Thankfully I had bought a suitcase with a gift for Shawn so that left me with an empty suitcase to put all the clothes I bought in. Worked out perfectly.
Becky managed to get some stuff too and since it was my coupon, welllll.... it had to go on my credit card. How lucky was she?! We got matching slippers but since we live so far away it should be fine. Unless she really does come for Thanksgiving and brings them. There could be trouble then but hers are too small for me.
Sunday Frank made breakfast and dinner for us. Shawn's mother and brother joined us for dinner and we had a delicious meal. It rained on and off but that only made it more humid. I did get to try out the hammock that I gave them as a house warming gift and it was wonderful. So comfy. Needed help to get out of it, though. Shawn's brother helped me out while Shawn watched. He was still too busy chuckling over me stepping onto the grass to walk to the hammock and practically sinking. The grass was very wet from the rain so I sank in to almost above my toes!
Trip home was fairly uneventful. Nestle was VERY happy to see us. Normale informed me that Nestle likes peanut butter on her food. No wonder she loves the spa so much. Between Normale and Lynn she was NEVER without a lap to sleep on.
So back to work it is. Oh well, it could be worse. At least I like my job. No knitting tonight. A couple we met on our South American cruise will be here tonight so we are meeting them for dinner. Should be nice.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Off to Houston
If anyone reading this blog does not know much about me, I will give a very brief synopsis. I have two daughters, Melissa and Becky. Mel lives in Pullman, WA with her SO of 7 plus years. She goes to WA state Univ. studying for her doctorate in civil engineering. (Her dad was the brainiac!) Becky lives in a suburb of Houston, Texas and works in HR. She lives with her boyfriend of almost 2 years.
I also have a step daughter who lives in San Diego, CA. She has two daughters, Cassidy is 4 and Elizabeth is 7. (That is a picture of them attached to this blog.) We don't get to see them as much as we would like, about once or twice a year. This year they are coming for Thanksgiving and we are VERY excited about that.
We will not discuss why all the kids live so far away. Suffice it to say they seem to like it. I choose not to think it reflects badly on me and don't you dare suggest otherwise!
I am married to my DH, Frank. He is supposedly retired but he works more and harder than a lot of people who work full time. We met 19 years ago and have been married 17 years. He does all the cooking, grocery shopping AND cleans the house every two weeks. NO, he is not available!!!!! I am VERY spoiled BUT I do clean up the kitchen after him (Which can be a substantial mess) and I do the laundry.
My hobbies include knitting, scrapbooking and reading. I also travel often but the jury is still out on how much I like that.
SO, on with my story.....
Well the DH and I leave for Houston at 7 pm this evening. I actually got up at 4am to make the 4:45 bus down the street from my house so that I would not have to drive to the Park and Ride. This way I will take the train back to BWI and Frank can pick me up at the station. Saves lots of time!
I can't wait to see Becky's new home and to spend the weekend with her and Shawn or, as she calls him, her 'hottie'. It's so nice for a parent when the kids are doing well and are happy. I know it's mostly not anything I did to make it so, but still it's nice to see them doing so well. Both she and Mel are doing well and I am so proud of them.
We will be going to San Antonio for the day on Friday, taking Eve, the Honda Accord I gave to Becky when I bought her Murano from her. She actually told me I could drive (She hates the way I drive.) but I quickly declined. It's hard to knit and drive at the same time. Besides, that might scare all of them. I am hoping Shawn or Frank drives so I can be in the back with Becky.
Did the packing thing last night. After knitting I came home and packed Nestle's things first. She was a wreck. I packed her food, some cookies, her extra bowls and two of her favorite toys. She was very anxious.
Then I went and packed my suitcase. She refused to come into the room while I packed, laying sentry outside instead. When I finally went to bed she did not want to join me and after she did she was very restless. We slept fitfully all night but at least I did not dwell on the things I forgot to pack. I don't know if that is a good thing or not. (See I just thought of two things I forgot. When frank calls I will have to try and walk him through how to find the items. Not an easy task for any man!)
Oh well, off we go. Thank GOD they allow knitting needles on the plane.
I also have a step daughter who lives in San Diego, CA. She has two daughters, Cassidy is 4 and Elizabeth is 7. (That is a picture of them attached to this blog.) We don't get to see them as much as we would like, about once or twice a year. This year they are coming for Thanksgiving and we are VERY excited about that.
We will not discuss why all the kids live so far away. Suffice it to say they seem to like it. I choose not to think it reflects badly on me and don't you dare suggest otherwise!
I am married to my DH, Frank. He is supposedly retired but he works more and harder than a lot of people who work full time. We met 19 years ago and have been married 17 years. He does all the cooking, grocery shopping AND cleans the house every two weeks. NO, he is not available!!!!! I am VERY spoiled BUT I do clean up the kitchen after him (Which can be a substantial mess) and I do the laundry.
My hobbies include knitting, scrapbooking and reading. I also travel often but the jury is still out on how much I like that.
SO, on with my story.....
Well the DH and I leave for Houston at 7 pm this evening. I actually got up at 4am to make the 4:45 bus down the street from my house so that I would not have to drive to the Park and Ride. This way I will take the train back to BWI and Frank can pick me up at the station. Saves lots of time!
I can't wait to see Becky's new home and to spend the weekend with her and Shawn or, as she calls him, her 'hottie'. It's so nice for a parent when the kids are doing well and are happy. I know it's mostly not anything I did to make it so, but still it's nice to see them doing so well. Both she and Mel are doing well and I am so proud of them.
We will be going to San Antonio for the day on Friday, taking Eve, the Honda Accord I gave to Becky when I bought her Murano from her. She actually told me I could drive (She hates the way I drive.) but I quickly declined. It's hard to knit and drive at the same time. Besides, that might scare all of them. I am hoping Shawn or Frank drives so I can be in the back with Becky.
Did the packing thing last night. After knitting I came home and packed Nestle's things first. She was a wreck. I packed her food, some cookies, her extra bowls and two of her favorite toys. She was very anxious.
Then I went and packed my suitcase. She refused to come into the room while I packed, laying sentry outside instead. When I finally went to bed she did not want to join me and after she did she was very restless. We slept fitfully all night but at least I did not dwell on the things I forgot to pack. I don't know if that is a good thing or not. (See I just thought of two things I forgot. When frank calls I will have to try and walk him through how to find the items. Not an easy task for any man!)
Oh well, off we go. Thank GOD they allow knitting needles on the plane.
Monday, September 28, 2009
TBIM - Too Bad It's Monday!
Well, the weekend is over...too short and over too quickly. However I only have to work four days this week then my DH and I are off to visit my youngest in Houston. Both of us are very much looking forward to the visit. We will see the new house she lives in and get to know her SO better. We like him a lot already!
I finished most of the craft room this past weekend and I LUV it! I put my stash away in plastic bags (fear of moths!) and bought a new copier/printer/fax/scanner. My old copier was just a copier. Time to update.
Nestle, my 4 year old shih tzu, is not sure how she feels about the new space. There is a recliner chair in the room and she has decided that it's hers. Yesterday I had clothes on it to be ironed and she sat in front of the chair and stared at me until I removed the clothes so she could lay there. She really rules the roost! (BUT we adore her!) She also likes that the door in the room leads right out to the backyard although she insists I leave the door open so she can return whenever she wishes. I will have to bring some toys down there, if she doesn't beat me to it.
My oldest daughter has decided not to hate me even though I am going on the knitting retreat without her. That's a relief because there is no way I could have afforded it for both of us. Although that would have made it a lot more fun! There is thread for it on ravelry and I already found someone to car pool with.
DH goes out with friends tonight so I guess I am on my own for dinner. You'd think he'd have the curtesy to cook me something anyway! Oh well, I guess I don't have him as well trained as I thought.
March on Monday! (Only 3 hours until I go home but who's counting?)
I finished most of the craft room this past weekend and I LUV it! I put my stash away in plastic bags (fear of moths!) and bought a new copier/printer/fax/scanner. My old copier was just a copier. Time to update.
Nestle, my 4 year old shih tzu, is not sure how she feels about the new space. There is a recliner chair in the room and she has decided that it's hers. Yesterday I had clothes on it to be ironed and she sat in front of the chair and stared at me until I removed the clothes so she could lay there. She really rules the roost! (BUT we adore her!) She also likes that the door in the room leads right out to the backyard although she insists I leave the door open so she can return whenever she wishes. I will have to bring some toys down there, if she doesn't beat me to it.
My oldest daughter has decided not to hate me even though I am going on the knitting retreat without her. That's a relief because there is no way I could have afforded it for both of us. Although that would have made it a lot more fun! There is thread for it on ravelry and I already found someone to car pool with.
DH goes out with friends tonight so I guess I am on my own for dinner. You'd think he'd have the curtesy to cook me something anyway! Oh well, I guess I don't have him as well trained as I thought.
March on Monday! (Only 3 hours until I go home but who's counting?)
Saturday, September 26, 2009
DAY OFF!!!!
Did the yard sale thing this weekend and bought a knitting machine. I hope to spend some time with it tomorrow. It's brand new, never been opened for only $15 so who could resist! I also bought a toy for each of the grand kids for when they come to visit over Thanksgiving. I love yard sales.
Knitting meetup at Savage Mill was fun. It is actually a little better than Wednesday nights. The group is smaller so it is a lot more intimate. I am still working on the second sock in Sheila's sock club. I need to put it aside and start my Christmas gifts. Mel is almost done but I have very little for anyone else.
Next weekend, TEXAS. Becky promises good weather - no big heat. I hope so because the weather in Houston sucks! We'll be visiting San Antonio too. I love San Antonio, especially the little art village behind the amphitheater.
So, what's with the title, beyond booties, you ask. Well, you see for years all I made were these booties that my mother (or grandmother, can't remember which) taught me to make. Then I decided to branch out and make some scarves. Then came hats, then I took a sock class and before I knew it I was actually a knitter. I am now totally addicted! I have a stash to be proud of and have started attending knitting events. I knit just about everywhere, even church!
This blogging thing is fun but hard to find things to talk about. For now, I will keep trucking along on it and see how it goes.
Knitting meetup at Savage Mill was fun. It is actually a little better than Wednesday nights. The group is smaller so it is a lot more intimate. I am still working on the second sock in Sheila's sock club. I need to put it aside and start my Christmas gifts. Mel is almost done but I have very little for anyone else.
Next weekend, TEXAS. Becky promises good weather - no big heat. I hope so because the weather in Houston sucks! We'll be visiting San Antonio too. I love San Antonio, especially the little art village behind the amphitheater.
So, what's with the title, beyond booties, you ask. Well, you see for years all I made were these booties that my mother (or grandmother, can't remember which) taught me to make. Then I decided to branch out and make some scarves. Then came hats, then I took a sock class and before I knew it I was actually a knitter. I am now totally addicted! I have a stash to be proud of and have started attending knitting events. I knit just about everywhere, even church!
This blogging thing is fun but hard to find things to talk about. For now, I will keep trucking along on it and see how it goes.
Friday, September 25, 2009
First timer
Well, I have finally given in and will now try to maintain a blog. My life is pretty boring so I am not quite sure how this will go but....
I had quite the fabulous day today. Yesterday the Yarn Harlot offered a weekend class to the first lucky 40 people to sign up and today Tina, of Socks that Rock, told me that I was the 7th email they received so I was IN! So on the weekend of November 13th I will be, along with 39 other knitters, in Port Ludlow, WA to spend a few days learning knitting tricks from Stephanie and how to dye from Tina. Is that heaven or what? I thought the sock summit was a pretty terrific event in my life but this surpasses even that!
Work continues to interfere with my real life but hopefully I will retire in less than 5 years, GOD and my 401K willing. Then I can knit, read, knit, scrapbook, knit, sleep and oh yeh, knit some more all I want!
Next weekend we are off to Texas to visit my youngest daughter and her boyfriend and their new home. Very much looking forward to it. My DH will be making dinner on Sunday and he is big with plans already. I can't wait to see what he comes up with. I know it will be yummy.
I think that's enough for a first post. More later....maybe.
I had quite the fabulous day today. Yesterday the Yarn Harlot offered a weekend class to the first lucky 40 people to sign up and today Tina, of Socks that Rock, told me that I was the 7th email they received so I was IN! So on the weekend of November 13th I will be, along with 39 other knitters, in Port Ludlow, WA to spend a few days learning knitting tricks from Stephanie and how to dye from Tina. Is that heaven or what? I thought the sock summit was a pretty terrific event in my life but this surpasses even that!
Work continues to interfere with my real life but hopefully I will retire in less than 5 years, GOD and my 401K willing. Then I can knit, read, knit, scrapbook, knit, sleep and oh yeh, knit some more all I want!
Next weekend we are off to Texas to visit my youngest daughter and her boyfriend and their new home. Very much looking forward to it. My DH will be making dinner on Sunday and he is big with plans already. I can't wait to see what he comes up with. I know it will be yummy.
I think that's enough for a first post. More later....maybe.
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