The Bobbilicious Files

Presents!

2011-12-26T20:52:00.002-06:00

I'm very excited about the gifts that I got this year. Eric's mom got me the complete Series Six of Doctor Who. I will totally be binging as soon as the kids are back in school. My parents got me, among other things, an Amazon gift card. I've been going through my wish list and just can't decide! My honey gave me a new video camera. It's really nice and really needs for me to make it a case to protect it from the dangers of life with me. Once again, too many choices. Should I go Harry Potter, Doctor Who, dragons, steampunk, or something that I haven't even thought of? It will become part of a set for the camera, my ipod, and my lip balm. Oh, my brain is swarming!
On the other side of the equation, I think the kids liked everything they got. I try very hard to make sure that they get things that they want, but it can be tough. Eric seemed to be interested in the Wii games that I found for him. We'll see if he enjoys them once he starts playing.
I hope you got lots of wonderful things and had time with the people who fill your life with joy.

Happy Holiday? Maybe.

2011-12-14T13:58:00.002-06:00

Yesterday my dad spent the day in surgery. He needed a new valve in his heart, an aorta repaired, and a leak closed. Today he's doing okay but will be in intensive care for a couple of days before moving to a regular room. I'm pretty sure that the kids would like a fully repaired Grandpa more than anything for Christmas, so if you could spare a little prayer we'd sure appreciate it.
I hope that you are keeping calm and relaxed this week before the big day. It's a great time of year for tasty goodies and hot chocolate so please partake! I'll be sharing my knitted gifts in a couple of days - as soon as Dad's socks are done. I've even managed a little something for myself. I hope you have, too.

Thanks

2011-11-25T13:15:00.002-06:00

As I sit here on Black Friday , I'm amazed at the nesesity of "things" for Christmas. There is nothing that I want so badly that will get me up to shop at 4. Today I am thankful that my family loves and appreciates the things that I knit for them. Much like a prayer shawl, I think positivity, love, and good health into each stitch in their new socks. My mom has expressed her wish for socks for every gift occasion because she loves them so much. My brother has requested a pair for a friend due to his own enjoyment of the pair he got last year. THey all know that a pair of handknit socks aren't on sale for four hours before the sun comes up.
I'm also thankful for all of you, dear readers. You've put up with much inconsistancy on my part. I'm blessed to have you.
Why has it been so long since my last video? Well, I've had a bout of accident-prone-itis like you wouldn't believe. In fact, the scar on my finger from the skirmish with a pair of scissors will probably be with me for the rest of my life. I hope that I've injured myself enough for the next several months and won't have to be afraid of sharp tools or hot food - don't ask.
Khloe wants to learn how to sew clothing. What books or videos should I look for? She most likely won't be patient enough for me to help her but maybe something from a professional would be worth her time. She's been watching Project Runway when it's on and would like to learn how to make pretty dresses. Are there learning tools from the show? I'm sure a day or two with Gigi Knitmore would be the best teacher - but Gigi is in baby mode right now - yay for babies! I'll just have to keep reminding the girl child that patience and practice are the best way to learn.
I'm off to have a turkey sandwich and pumpkin pie. Have a wonderful weekend!

The Amazing Blueberry Sweater

2011-10-21T16:00:00.003-05:00

I don't usually knit for my kids. They tend to grow faster than I can get things finished. However, Khloe doesn't have a lot of cold-weather clothes so I knit up the sweater she's been asking for since she joined Ravelry. She's named it the Amazing Blueberry Sweater and has worn it three times since it's been done.
In other news, due to a medical situation in the family I won't be going to the Knittin in the Mitten retreat. I'm so upset. I really wanted to meet Coggie and learn all of the things that a big group of fiber lovers can teach. I have a local knitting group, but we only meet every couple of weeks and sometimes I can't get there. I've never been on a vacation since I've been an adult, either, so getting away would be so nice. I keep telling myself that there will be another chance.
Several of the podcasts that I listen to have book reviews. A recent one has me wondering about some things. Sometimes I wonder if people get good or bad reviews based on who they are and how popular they are. There's a podcast that I quit listening to because she offended me, but she's very popular. She has a book out that's getting great reviews - but I won't be buying it because I don't want to support her. Have books become big sellers that have been written by unknowns? People get famous somehow. No, I have no plans to be published. In fact, I haven't been inspired to buy any knitting books lately - except for the two that are almost $50 each. Do you think that sometimes a book gets bad reviews because of the author or publisher?
I've been having trouble with blogger lately. I can't seem to leave comments on most of the blogs I read. I get some sort of message about not having permission. I hope you all aren't having trouble, too.

Well....Poo

2011-09-18T20:27:00.002-05:00

If you've seen my videos you know that I've been working on the Radian Yoke tee from Knitscene. Today I looked and realized that I had only one more skein left, so I decided to try it on. It looks terrible on me. So I frogged it. I've been knitting on this since June. I suppose I should have tried it long before now. Oh, well, you live and learn. Now I have the black sport weight cotton to make something else with - of course it will be another top.
Next week my boy child is having surgery on his leg. Sometime this week I'll hit the freaked out stress mode that I know is coming. I'll have to find some simple projects to work on since my brain will most likely be unable to concentrate on anything.
I'll let you know how things go for him, don't worry. Have a great week!

Episode Fifteen - Hello, September!

2011-09-01T21:44:00.000-05:00

England Calling

2011-08-22T14:54:00.002-05:00

By now you all know that I'm a bit of an Anglophile. Over the past month or so I've found some new British podcasts to enjoy. It started with the Plurk Podcaster Challenge. Miss Elle is a challenger, so I started listening. She led me to a podcast called Knit Spin Cake. Yes, cake. From there is A Playful Day and the Caithness Craft Collective. These ladies are all from different areas of Britain and have different accents and I love them.
Back to the Challenge for a moment. I got my pattern today. I can't say more than it's in fingering weight - but I'm excited to get to work on it in a couple of weeks. I'm kind of upset, though, about a few of the challengers. When asked who they would be watching they said only the popular few and just don't have time for the rest of us. The idea behind the challenge was supposed to be support for everyone. Maybe if the Popular Few would watch the rest of us the video world wouldn't be so cliquy.
My guitar lessons are going well. I really like playing and making music, even if it is rough right now. Sometimes it's tough to find practice time, what with the kids and the house and the whole food thing, but when I have time I make the most of it. I don't even mind the short nails!
I'm off for now. I'll be back soon with more news from the house of Bobbi.

Bouncing With Squees

2011-07-06T11:56:00.002-05:00

If you watch my videos you remember that in episode ten I'm wearing my Doctor Who tee shirt. I sent a link to the podcast that I bought it from, Hoo in Who, who is sadly not yet linked on the right because I'm terribly bad and haven't updated the list in a while but will be very soon. Today I was listening to their latest episode (they talk about The Aztecs, an awesome First Doctor story) and the talk about me! They told the listeners to check out my video to see my work and see the tee. I couldn't be too loud because the kids were still sleeping, but boy am I excited. I probably will be smiling about it for, well, all day at least. You should watch the episode, though, just to see my Dalek.

Rough Times

2011-05-23T12:52:00.002-05:00

For the past week or so I've been struggling with a really tough bout of depression. It's hit me completely out of the blue. Some great things have happened lately - a field trip to the Abraham Lincoln museum with the fourth graders, Khloe got an award for her great grades, and Erica graduated form high school - but nothing is shaking it. I'm trying to keep busy so my brain doesn't just grind itself into a black hole, but I could really use any support you could give. THanks.

Rain - Go Away!!

2011-04-24T13:59:00.002-05:00

It's been raining for so long now that I don't remember warm sunshine. Know what else I don't remember? A clean, dry basement. Ours flooded - twice - last week. I have saved a little bt of my stash so far. I've lost, at least, two sewing machines and my beautiful Christmas tree. There's a ton to go through before I can get to the rest of my stash and see what's salvagable. I've stopped crying for now - we have a whole family room setup down there that's probably all ruined, not to mention the need to take apart woodwork and bleach the crap out of the walls to prevent any molding. I know I'll be crying more. Yesterday I made so many trips up and down the stairs that my legs don't want to work. My washer and dryer will be getting worked like crazy for a few days (better get some more detergent!) and the kids will be earning a few dollars tomorrow (no school - thank goodness). I thought about calling in for my counseling group tomorrow, but I think going would do me some good. The biggest problem? More rain in the forecast. Sometimes I really hate the weather.
Please send good thoughts if you can. I'll need the energy by the end of the week!

So Very Sad Today

2011-04-19T19:58:00.002-05:00

One of the reasons that I'm sure there was Doctor Who in my childhood is a memory of Sarah Jane. She's the connection that I've always had with the show. I learned on Twitter this afternoon that she had passed away. I'm heartbroken. I had kind of hoped for more appearances on the show - and I'm barely familiar with her show. I'm going to spend some time with Netflix tonight, watching some of her Doctor and Sarah Jane adventures and missing her very, very much.

Bad Knitter!

2011-04-13T18:39:00.002-05:00

I recently noticed something - my ravelry project page is months behind. It's terrible. The knitmeter is probably even less caught up. Apparently my brain thinks the project is done when the ends are woven in and forgets the "share it with everyone" part. Well, it's supposed to rain for a few days. Maybe having to stay inside will motivate me to take some pictures...that and writing myself a big note.

Wheel Shots

2011-03-17T19:03:00.003-05:00

Yesterday afternoon was beautiful. I decided to take advantage of the sunshine and warmth by spinning out on the front porch. Khloe was taking pictures so here are a couple for you to enjoy.

Assistance Request

2011-03-17T08:49:00.002-05:00

If you've watched the videos you know that there are some problems with the site. Because of the way that the video links, I have no idea how to do show notes. No surprise to regular blog readers - I don't know how to do nice links here, either. I could really use some help. I'm not a tecchie by any stretch of the imagination. I need tutorials best suited for great-grandparents - or if you were explaining it to, say, a character from a Victorian novel. For some reason the "helpful" videocasters on Plurk have ignored my requests for assistance many times. (I've not been invited to the virtual knit nights, either - am I too cool?)
I'm also on the lookout for some artwork. I'd love an opening scene to go with the misic I'll have soon (I'm going to spend a great deal of time on the podsafe music site) to use as an intro to the episodes instead of the image of me smiling on the couch. I have editing software to figure out, too, so by episode nine or ten everything should be awesome.
My biggest problem is itunes. I seem to be the only video not approved yet. It's very, very annoying to me. Do I need to brag about coffee or swear or something? (I don't drink coffee or swear, maybe that's the problem.) I hate trying to contact itunes. When I've had problems in the past it's been so frustrating for me just to get my message across that I usually quit trying. ( I still can't get my audiobooks to drag to my ipod - why?)
If you can assist in any way, please contact me. Maybe we can work something out.

I'm Not Surprised

2011-03-03T21:33:00.002-06:00

This evening I took Khloe to see the Justin Bieber movie. I have enjoyed watching his videos with her and have heard that could see that he's very talented. The movie is quite interesting and entertaining. Justin was an adorable little boy. The videos of him playing drums as a toddler are too cute to describe. He seems like a very honorable and focused young man. There were only a few of us in the theater - and I prefer it that way. Khloe wasn't too shy to sing along and she wasn't alone. On our left was a little boy (maybe five or so) who was having a great time singing and dancing. I'm really considering buying Justin's accoustic CD to practice guitar to - the scenes of him playing inspired me to learn some of his songs. The only criticism I have is this - Justin needs to pull his pants up. The saggy jeans look is old.
That's all I have for today - it's late and I need to get some rest. Check the movie out if you're at all interested in his music or his phenomenon.

Lawn Art

2011-03-02T13:31:00.002-06:00

The other day Eric and I were sitting quietly and watching Dalek, an episode of Doctor Who from 2005. After a few minutes I told him about sites that tell how to make daleks and how people take them to conventions and then it hit me - how about a couple of daleks in the yard? Wouldn't they be great? I would especially love it if they could keep the neighbor's dog from using our lawn as a potty - and other people's children from walking through thinking it's okay to get from their house to Kmart or Shake Shack without asking (I don't like strangers in the back yard while my girl is in the pool or something). Needless to say, he wasn't as excited about the idea as I was. Maybe I'll just build a dalek with a cupboard bottom for kitchen storage - and add some sort of lights to make it more fun and scifi. Or maybe I'll just make one of those cool dalek dresses so my geekiness can be worn all over the place!

Oh, The Frustration

2011-02-21T22:34:00.002-06:00

The other day Khloe came home from school very, very upset. She'd not done well on a math test and was worried that I would be disappointed. I really wasn't upset. It must be hard for a ten-year-old to do algebra. I have gotten a bit frustrated with her lately, though. She's asked me to teach her how to knit, so I did. She worked on a few rows and quit. She says it's too hard. I told her that if she really wants to do it she needs to practice. She doesn't want to practice - she wants to be good right away at everything she tries. So, fine. Don't knit. I wasn't forcing her to, anyway. Last week I started a video podcast. (I'll link it in the sidebar.) Tonight I got the episode up - yay! - and showed it to her. Guess what? She wants to start knitting again so she can record with me. Sigh.

Videos

2011-02-10T09:35:00.002-06:00

Khloe has been asking me to make a video podcast with her and we recorded Monday night. I'm having such a hard time getting it to upload anywhere that I'm close to throwing my computer against the wall. I need someone to come over here and help me. I'm not a computer person. I can make loads of things and love working with my hands. Code is not my thing. Hardware, software, any kind of "ware" isn't legible for me. If any of you can come over, call, draw pictures, or help in any way that uses no technical language I would greatly appreciate it.
I'm going to work on what does speak to me - yarn and fiber. I don't have pictures right now because it's all on the video.

More Spinning

2011-01-30T21:52:00.004-06:00

This is the braid of fiber that I got in the Camp Half-Blood KAL/SAL. We took a quiz to see who our God parent was and wrote a bit about ourselves, then Jess dyed up yarn or fiber specifically for us. I was very surprised to see so much green - after all, I'm not much of a green fan. After thinking about it, though, it makes sense. I enjoy being outside and working with my plants. The braid is six ounces and super soft. I almost didn't want to spin it - almost. But spin it I did.

I wound up with a bit over 1000 yards of fingering to lace weight yarn. I've kept the skeins in order so I can knit it up in the same progression that it came ffrom the braid. I plan on making a pi shawl - something simple yet open to show off the colors.

I can't thank Jenny enough for selling the wheel to me. When I spin I feel like everything in the world is okay. My mind relaxes and I work on instinct. It's like meditation, only easier and productive. I feel like as long as I'm behind the wheel nothing bad can happen in the world. I really need to thank her for soothing my soul and invigorating my spirit, too - but there really is no way to pay her back for that.

Have I Mentioned

2011-01-17T14:10:00.002-06:00

How much I adore Coggie from the High Fiber Diet podcast? She sounds like such a fun, exciting person to be around. I really wish I could go to her retreat in November. Maybe if I start saving now....
Also, if anyone has beads left over that they don't want, please keep me in mind. Maybe we could work something out. Thanks!

A Splash of Color

2011-01-14T12:45:00.006-06:00

Here are a few skeins that I've spun on the new wheel. They're not perfect, but I'm pleased with how they've turned out. There's enough of each to make a small project. Right now I'm working on a braid that was custom-dyed for me. I'll share it when I have more done.

Stay safe, my loves!

Blogging in my Head

2010-12-21T08:18:00.002-06:00

Yes, I've been blogging in my head again. Maybe I should invest in that Dragon program that types while you talk. That would be so much easier than my constant typo-fixing. Anyway...
My Christmas gift socks are done. I forgot to take pictures, unfortunately, but they look good. The pair for my brother are big. He's got biggish feet and wears boots most of the time so I made the leg 10". That's a bunch of stockinette! It didn't take long, though, because partway through I hit a good groove and the needles just flew. I made his and Dad's from a cone of undyed wool/bamboo blend that I'd gotten for the etsy shop and have decided that when my stash goes down I'd like to get more yarn on cones. It's so much easier. For example, I didn't have to think about if I had a good color for my brother or if the skein was big enough - I could just knit and dye it when done. I'd like to have cones of both fingering weight and something heavier for sweaters. I'll have to do some saving, of course, because the initial expense is bigger than a single skein, but the price balances out quite nicely in the end.
I had to take Kerry to an orthodontist last week - he needs braces - and decided to stop at Home Depot while we were close. Why? So I could get the paint chips for the colors of the Doctor Who scarf as listed on the http://www.wittyLittleKnitter.com website. I'll be getting a little money for my birthday and am going to get the yarn for a scarf. My plan is to use Vanna's Choice, but with the colors in my purse I'll be ready if another type catches my eye. I'd like to get the colors in fingering weight, too (I don't trust my dyeing skills to match them) so I can knit up some socks and maybe a couple of ties for some favorite podcasters. I thought a long skinny fingering weight scarf might be nice as a belt or headband, too. We'll see how things go. I may wind up having to order what I need.
On to some podcasts! One of my favorites, Smart Mouths, is ending. The hosts have had increasingly harder times getting together to record. I'm going to miss listening to them. I have found some new Doctor Who podcasts to listen to. I absolutely love Hoo on Who. They are a father/son team who talk mostly about older episodes. The older episodes were just the father and guests, and I'm going back to listen to some of those as well. I also love The Happiness Patrol. I found this one because of my cyber-crush on Tardis Tara, the genius behind the Witty Little Knitter site. This show has four regular hosts and is hilarious. They all have lots of information about Doctor Who and its history and seem to know everyone in Who fandom. Two of the hosts, Tara and Lela, actually tracked the cast and crew of Doctor Who in Utah and got to meet the cast. It sounded like such a great time.
There's a newer knitting podcast that I really enjoy. It's called Knitting Pipeline. Paula, the host, is from the next county over. It's neat to hear her talk about nearby places. She's a great knitter and has interesting stories both about knitting and bagpiping, her other love.
Khloe has been taking guitar lessons. She's pretty good. She has a knack for music and picks things up rather quickly. I have to remind her to practice, though, becuse she'd rather sit and complain about being bored. Ugh. I hope this "bored" phase ends soon - there's not much that's more annoying than someone complaining of boredom.
Kerry doesn't want to give up wearing my wool socks. I've cast on a pair for him, but I really need to give myself a small-needle break. Of course, being selfish, I want to work on something for me as well. Never fear, the boy will get his socks - and I may just let him keep the ones that he loves so much.
I need to get going - I started watching Buffy on Netflix and now I can't think about anything else. It's quite a show. I've queued up Close Encounters and Jurassic Park 3 as well - two of my gotta-watch all-time favorite movies. It's going to be a television day, can you tell?

Health and House Cup

2010-12-13T13:00:00.002-06:00

Things have been a bit chaotic here lately. The kids had a five-day weekend for Thanksgiving and then were sick the whole next week. They're feeling much better now, thank goodness, and so am I - having them home is a bit taxing on my nerves. At least they're old enough now to take a nap when told.
The House Cup has ended another term and Ravenclaw tied with Gryffindor for the win. I personally completed two OWLS and won a Star of Isis award. I'm also among the first group to complete seven "years". We're trying to decide what to call ourselves now that we've "graduated". Next term will have a special new member - Khloe has joined Ravelry and the House Cup. She's had a great time so far getting to know everyone. I monitor what she does, of course, to make sure she's in groups that are not too mature for her.
Since my keyboard is being difficult right now I'm going to get going. Next time I'll talk about my gift knitting and random other stuff. Stay warm!

Pictures!

2010-10-28T09:49:00.003-05:00

Just a couple of things to share - my new shawl for the release of HP7 in house colors and Khloe showing off her new hat and the skein of yarn that she dyed with food colors.

And yes, I am the only non-fall person ever.

Am I Really?

2010-10-25T12:08:00.002-05:00

I'm beginning to think that I'm the only person who doesn't love autumn. All around me I hear people talk about the weather, the pretty colors, etc, but I just don't get it. I look out the window and the neon yellow-orange trees across the street hurt my eyes. In the morning it's 40 degrees and in the afternoon it's 70 and the kids leave their jackets at school so they freeze again in the morning because they don't listen. Our allergies are back with a passion from something and I've developed a sinus infection from it. There are some people around here who think they can burn their leaves whenever they want so the neighborhood stinks. We can't decorate the yard with pumpkins because the disrespectful brats around here think it's funny to destroy them. It's not a good season. I miss summer. I know that in summer it's going to be hot. In winter I know it's going to be cold. There's no kids arguing about if they need a coat or not. Sometimes I like winter - warm socks and sweaters and blankets are so nice. I don't much care for spring, though, either - it's mud everywhere, including in my house. There are a couple of things that I enjoy about fall, though. I can't get enough caramel apples and pumpkin pie.
I'm listening to Coggie and the Savvy Girls talk about their adventures at Rhinebeck with envy. I want to go! Eric said he'd help me save up so I can go to some knitting events and party with my podcasters. It would be so much fun to laugh and be silly with Coggie, Deborah, and Melanie, don't you think? I hope that when I go all of the podcasters will be there so that I can meet them all. I think the best part of any festival would be meeting people. When Khloe gets a bit bigger I could take her with me if she wants. Of course, she'd probably want to run away with Melanie to be a gerbil mom.
Speaking of Khloe, I just went to a parent-teacher conference. My girl is a straight-A, above average, excellent reader. She loves math. Unfortunately, though, she gets a bit chatty in class. She's had the same classmates and teacher for the past two years so she's very comfortable with everyone. I'd like to make her teacher a shawl as a thank you gift - Khloe loves her and really listens to her. It will be for the end of school, so there's time to plan. Maybe by then the perfect pattern and I will find each other.
More Kerry news - I tookhim to the doctor because he's got a big bump on his leg. It turned out that it's not a bruise - it's a cartilage and bone growth called osteochondroma. He had an MRI last week and did really well - no freaking out or getting scared. The result from that is good news - it's not cancer. We will go back and discuss options with the doctor in a week. Most likely he'll need surgery.
I'll finish up here with a request - if any of you know of some Steampunk or Victorian waistcoat/vest patterns or where to buy one affordably, please let me know. I'd like to add to my wardrobe and a snazzy vest with a chain would be great. Thanks!
Pictures soon, I promise!

Almost Caught Up

2010-10-12T11:16:00.002-05:00

We had another computer crash recently which is why I've been absent. Apparently our Windows had a virus and everything had to be moved to a backup while the tech guy reinstalled Windows for us. Then comes the fun part of putting everything back where it's supposed to be. I got the pleasure of reinstalling itunes and finding that it wasn't the current list of my podcasts so that took an hour or so. I'm still putting my bookmarks back to the "favorites" tab - and finding new favorite places, of course. I had about 250 emails to sort through even after going to the library once to check it. Eric has his user account done - but then, he only has his internet browser and nothing else. The girls haven't been over to see that they need to redo all of their accounts. Thank goodness we have an external hard drive for our pictures and such - I'm paranoid about losing my pay patterns so they're stored there - and in a flash drive and some are on my kindle. Actually, I filled up my flash drive and need a new one. That's alot of patterns!
I spent most of September knitting a cardigan for myself in some great pink wool. I got it all done, put it on, and it's WAY TOO BIG! My gauge swatch lied! I get to frog the whole thing and do it all over. I love the cardi - it's the Birthstone Cardigan in the latest KnitScene. It looks so good in the baby pink I'm using. I can almost feel myself wearing it - being warm and cozy while watching snow fall outside. I'll have to do some gauge work, though, so it's perfect this time.
This month, so far, I've been hat crazy. I've made four hats out of handspun that are very thick and squishy. Khloe has claimed one to wear all winter. I've got a few more hats that I want to make - and I'm obsessed with getting the Wolly Wormhead collection of sideways-knit patterns - as soon as I get the cash saved up. What's the exchange rate for pounds, anyway?
Speaking of Khloe, she got bored one afternoon. After much internal struggling I gave her a big skein of superwash merino to dye with food coloring. It's gorgeous and colorful - she used all of the neon green and most of the other colors. Now we need to find a pattern for about a thousand yards of fingering weight that's not a shawl. She's tiny, though, so maybe we can pick a sweater or something.
Let's see, what else...Oh! My friend Jenny is selling her spinning wheel....to Me! (donations for the payments will be accepted ;)). I've been doing some practicing with it and it's very, crap - I can't think of the right word. It's like my hands and feet know instinctively what to do - it's strange. I really enjoy it. Of course, so far it's all bulky but I like bulky - great for warm hats!
I've had the great pleasure of introducing my son to Doctor Who. He's very taken with it. He's gone through the seasons with Rose and Martha and is now watching Donna. I, on the other hand, have been watching the classic seasons on Netflix. I can't get enough! I'm aching for a scarf, too. I thought about asking for the yarn for Christmas but Eric thought it was a bad idea. I plan to get the paint chips suggested by Tara Wheeler and write the yardages for each color on the back so I'm prepared for any situation. I'll link Tara's site on the side. She's my new cyber crush - she even met David Tennant! She's like the ultimate Doctor Who fan.
I'd better run - I can hear the girl child calling for me and I need to get some pictures uploaded for your viewing pleasure.

Too Much

2010-09-11T11:23:00.002-05:00

It's been a long time since my last post. So many things have happened and I've blogged in my brain a hundred times but stuff has been moving along too fast. Here's the rundown -
My email was hacked and someone sent I-don't-know-how-many people a sob story about me being trapped in London with no money so could they please wire a bunch so I can come home? It was awful - I mean, I may really never get to London even though I want to. It took a good chunk of time to find and fix the problem and regain control of my email - and set up my account through here - msbobbilicious(at)gmail(dot)com if you're interested. Ugh. If you got the message and are mad at me for wanting cash and I didn't talk to you I'm very sorry. It was some other bad child, not this one.
My happy place is falling apart. There's a problem in the staff and I'm imploding about it. See, I'm staff now - meet this term's second potions TA. So - I'm all new in the staff forum and I'm trying to keep up with potions and keep up with the rest of the Cup and work on my projects and take care of my kids and school and all and NOW all of this is happening with the staff (and I don't even know what's really going on for sure). I've been trying to catch up all morning and oce I finish this post I have more threads and posts to read and see what I can do to help. My brain hurts and I want to cry. The House Cup is my second home, the beginning of so many of my projects, the place where many dear friends are, and my main reason for being on ravelry.
My parents have had various illnesses this summer. It's tough to try to talk through things with them and not say anything to the kids that will upset them because they're way too emotional when it comes to grandma and grandpa. Have I mentioned that the sun rises and sets for grandpa in Khloe's eyes?
One bright spot, however, has been something that I've learned about my son. Kerry has behavior problems and is in a class for the learning-disabled kids at school. I've been to the class- my first day subbing was there. Some of the kids are very disabled. My son, however, doesn't notice their problems or disabilities. He sees them as his friends. He signs up to take lunch with them, he races around the track with one girl in her wheelchair just because she likes it, and he really is friends with them. I've spent alot of time worried that he had no friends - there are few kids in our neighborhood that he plays with and spent most of the summer with me and Khloe, not out playing football or kickball. In fact, a couple of the kids around here are mean to him for reasons unknown (although it is a bit of a crappy neighborhood when it comes to friends and acceptance of others). My Kerry makes me proud. Now, if he would only be nice to his sister...

Tour Cardi

2010-08-04T15:15:00.003-05:00

This is the finished cardi from my Tour de Fleece knitting. I had a bit of a problem with the Verena pattern - the waist yoke wasn't looking like the picture so I emailed for assistance and haven't heard back. I'm pleased with this new cardi. It's the Spring Fling pattern from knitty. I used Cotton Fleece and really like this yarn. It's a bit splitty but it's so soft. It only took two weeks to knit up, too, and I worked on other things at the same time. Oh, and Coggie talked about it on her High Fiber Diet podcast! Isn't that cool?
Speaking of Coggie, she's asked for people to knit hats for the soldiers who are serving with her husband. The details are on her show notes page, so check it out if you're interested. I've stash-dived to find brown yarns to make a couple of hats. Since I've been out of the Random Acts of Kindness group I haven't had an outlet for my need to give so I'm adding this to the kidney cozies and animal shelter blankets that I'm working on this fall.
I'm not trying to make anyone think I'm trying to make myself sound all big and wonderful. I have a big yarn stash and really need to do something with it - and although I love to crochet afghans we have quite enough blankets around the house.
In other news, I have a Kindle! It's so cool. I've read two books on it so far and have put about twenty on it - some free ones and some that I bought. I also put several patterns on it, both to keep them safe if our computer dies and to knit from when they come up on my personal to-knit list. It's a gift from my family, a very early Christmas and birthday gift. I really enjoy it. Mom had me order one for her, too. I put about ten books on hers. She likes mysteries and thrillers, so our Kindles have very different content. I'd like to learn how to put some audio on it, too, but I'd hate for my ipod, Pinky, to get jealous.
It's been a great summer for the pool. I'm in it several times each week. When the water got warm it stayed that way and I'm loving it. The kids don't get in it much. I'm not sure why, though. Perfect water, sunshine, floating noodles, and music sound like a perfect to me!
Well, there's a project calling my name, so I'll be going for now. See ya later!

I'm A Winner...Most of the Time

2010-07-19T12:00:00.002-05:00

In my last post I talked about my water bottle cozies. Well, I entered them in the repurpose-along on the Spin Control podcast and won - okay, it was a random drawing but I still won. You can't imagine how tickled I was to hear my name! I got a handmade shopping bag and a copy of Knitting Green. I love both. The book has several nice patterns and articles about natural and sustainable fibers.
I've also finished my OWL sweater. It looks great. My cables are even and it's all seamed together nicely.
I'll bet you're wondering - where are the pictures? Well, apparently I've broken the ability to get pictures from the camera to the computer. I'm not sure exactly what happened. Maybe if I'm pathetic enough Jenny will come help me - she's smart with stuff like that. If only I had smarticles instead of great hair...

Sometimes Gluing Helps

2010-06-30T21:36:00.003-05:00

This past month has been a bit moody for me. Some days I'm great and happy and then the next day I'm sad. Last week I was having a particularly down day and I decided to make something to cheer myself up a bit. In the corner of my eye I saw our stainless water bottles sitting naked on the counter and thought that cozies would be great. I gathered up some batting (the kind for hot pads and lunch sacks), a pair of Eric's old jeans, some glue, needle and thread, and assorted decorations. A couple of hours later I had these:

Kerry's isn't in the picture because he was personalizing his with a Pokemon battle scene. I kind of made it up as I went - cut, sew, glue, cut some more, and so on. I was in a better mood when I got done, too - and I had a great cozy for my beverage while I'm in the pool. It works really well, too. I'm thinking of adding glitter.

I'm really eager to start the Tour de Fleece. I've been swatching yesterday and today - good thing I did, too. I need to go up a couple of needle sizes. Reading the Verena pattern is alot easier than I thought it would be. It looked intimidating but I figured it out in no time. I've heard that Drops patterns are hard to read, so I guess I'll have to try one of theirs, too.

Until next time, my friends!

In Honor of Grandmas

2010-06-22T20:33:00.003-05:00

I fell in love with the vintage sweater patterns in the spring issue of Verena. They're glamorous and stylish and cool. As I browsed through the pictures again I realized that two of the sweaters reminded me of my grandmas, so I'm going to knit them the colors that were their favorites and wear them with style. This cardigan is called Stanwick. It's shape and style remind me of my Grandma Bette. I have the perfect yarn for it in my stash - Knit Pick's CotLin in Moroccan Red - a rich winey red that will be gorgeous with the stitch pattern. Grandma Bette loved red. She had pale skin and silvery white hair and red looked so nice on her. I can see her in this sweater with white slacks and a polka-dot blouse under it. I'll be wearing jeans and a tee, most likely, but she'll be with me in my mind.
This one is called Rodgers. To me it's the kind of casual dressy that Grandma D would wear to church or bingo. I'm on the lookout for the perfect yarn for it. It must be blue - something in the sapphire to midnight range, maybe with a shine. It will be great for days when I'm called to work with a skirt and plain shirt under it.

I've started listening to The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton. I chose it because it's read by Brenda Dayne of Cast On. I love her voice. The podcast is good but I have to fast-forward through the songs. I really like the story so far. The book is in my library but hasn't been opened - when I'm in the mood to read I tend to go toward young adult fantasy-type books like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson - things that are easy to read and take me to a different world. I'm glad that librivox exists so that I can get to enjoy the classics while knitting.

Dress Quest

2010-06-09T18:45:00.002-05:00

There's a new book out called Sweater Quest that several podcasters have talked about. It's written by a women who documents her year long knitting of an intricate colorwork sweater. I don't have a knitting quest like that. For years now I have been desiring a vintage '70's Diane von Furstenburg wrap dress. I must have seen it as a child because I really don't remember a time when I didn't want one. The problem is that they go for a ton of money when they're for sale. She began selling new ones a few years ago but I haven't had much luck with those, either. In fact, even the patterns are hot and hard to get. They're great dresses. I suppose that I should be stashing appropriate fabrics - just in case the stars align and I manage to become the sqeeing, jumping-up-and-down owner of a pattern. If I ever manage to get a dress, well, I'd probably pass out.
Last year I considered the idea of joining the Tour de Fleece. It starts up again in July and the Knitmores are doing training in the new podcasts - but the idea of even touching fiber in gross, muggy July is icky. Gigi, however, has started a Tour for handcyclists - knitting. I found a great pattern in the summer issue of Verena - it's a little top called Amaryllis. After diving deep in the stash I found enough sport weight to make it, but there's a small problem. The top says "hot, seductive, able to make men wilt with a glance"while the yarn is "I'm a good girl" shade of pale lavender. I did a bit of browsing on the Webs site and found a few yarns that would work. If any of you have used one or more of these yarns please let me know what you thought of them - Tahki Cotton Classic Lite, Kollage Corntastic, Rowan Lenpur Linen, Dale of Norway Svale, or Berroco Comfort DK. Don't get me wrong, the lavender cotton will be nice but it will change the effect of the top completely.
If I get the top done before the Tour is done I plan to start working on Spring Fling from Knitty. It didn't appeal to me until I saw some finished ones on ravelry. I have some Cotton Fleece for that - enough to make it a bit longer. It looks like a pretty simple knit - if I concentrate on it alone it will probably only take a few days to make.
There's another pattern that didn't appeal to me when it came out but now it's calling to me. Citron on Knitty didn't even get a second glance - but ravelry has so many pretty ones that I just must make one. I recently experimented with dyeing up some self-striping yarn and I think it will work great. It's going to have to wait for a bit, though. Right now I'm knitting a kidney kozy - the first of what I hope will be many to send to Holly.

Some Memories of Grandma

2010-05-28T15:38:00.002-05:00

Yesterday morning, very early, my grandma passed away. She'd been in the hospital for almost a week and was starting to get better - she even had gotten some coffee. I didn't go up to visit, though, because she was in intensive care and kids aren't allowed - not me as a kid, but my kids. she's been on my mind alot this past week, of course, and I'd like to talk about her for awhile. Grandma was in her 90's. She played bingo almost every week with my parents and my other relatives. She liked chocolate and told me once that if she was thin she'd look old since the fat on her face filled out the wrinkles. My grandma was divorced and Catholic - not normally two things that go together. In fact, she was a single mom in the 50's with three boys and a girl. She had a good job in the office at Caterpillar and did work in the house at night to keep everyone fed and such - of course my grandpa didn't pay child support since it wasn't invented and he had another wife and kids. (He's a whole other story, I tell ya.) I can't imagine raising my dad and his brothers - they're rowdy now and they're old. It's amazing that Grandma didn't drink. That's probably part of why she lived so long. I have five great-aunts (correct me if I'm wrong and forgot someone, mom) and Grandma told me that when they were little they used to play "Movie Star". Grandma pretended to be Jean Harlow. I still am surprised at that - I love Harlow and long for an occasion to wear a slinky bias-cut gown and be sassy and gorgeous. I should have talked about her with Grandma to see movies and stars from her point of view - actually watching classics when they were new and current. Grandma was a Cubs fan - baseball is a line in the family, Cubs or Cardinals, no other team exists. (I'm a Yankees fan, so I keep out of the conversations.) We used to have holidays at her house but the family has exploded into more people than I can remember sometimes - since she lived so long there are four generations under her. I don't think there's a wide-angle lens big enough to fit all of us in one shot. I didn't spend as much time with her as I could have - I live an hour away and have mentioned that I hate driving - but she did come here once to see my home and meet all of Eric's kids. I'm really glad that my kids knew her. They're both very upset right now, of course, but they'll have memories of spending time talking with her. I know there's more but it's escaping me right now. (My trip to Wal-Mart and usual bad experience there has damaged my thought process this afternoon.)
As I leave, please remember to call your grandma if she's still around. Be safe this weekend.

Images of My Week

2010-05-26T10:57:00.006-05:00

Forum Failure

2010-05-17T18:46:00.002-05:00

Lately I haven't been saying anything in the forums that I'm in. I don't know what the problem is, really. I haven't done much in the Ravenclaw room anyway - there are about two hundred posts a day there and I just can't keep up with it all. Usually I would comment on finished projects but I haven't even felt like doing that. Maybe all of this rainy weather has made me antisocial. All I want to do lately is sleep. I'm sure this mood will be over soon. A couple of good sunshiney days should get me back to normal.
In other news, I finished Mom's top but forgot to take a picture of it. It turned out nice, though, and fits her. I've cast on for my OWL sweater but only have a few rows done so far. I've knit some on the Evenstar shawl, too. I want to knit a pair of socks but the mojo is still gone. In the meantime I'll just finish what I've started and spend some time with the charity stuff.

Late Night Television

2010-05-14T16:09:00.002-05:00

I tend to stay up late to watch That 70's show on Teen Nick - it's nice to end each day laughing, especially after any sort of dramas that the girl child may have brought home from school. I've become very familiar with the ads that are run - a preview of the next episode of Degrassi, an acne medication, a female product, and....Your Baby Can Read. It makes me wonder what kind of target audience for a baby product is watching television at midnight - teenage moms on a feeding break? It's really strange - of course, my babies didn't read at two, either, so maybe I just don't get it. Don't get me wrong - Khloe could swear like a sailer at two. Not many kids can do that, you know. I guess I get occupied on the goofiest thoughts.
What have I been working on? Well, Mom's Mother's Day present is almost done - just a few more rows. I know it's late. She doesn't mind.
I also spun some art yarn inspired by my friend Jenny's alter ego. I can't post a picture because she hasn't seen it yet. I think it turned out really neat. My spinning mojo is back. I'm working on some superskinny black merino on one spindle and some sparkly blue on the other. I browsed the beautiful batts on etsy earlier and will be saving up to get a couple. The new fiber sellers are really good - lots of color and fiber combinations to choose from. It all looks like candy.
School gets out in seven days. This school year has gone by so fast! I'm happy for warm weather, though. We've had quite enough cold, crappy days.
Pictures next time!

Gifting

2010-05-08T17:03:00.002-05:00

Since I've left the Random Acts of Kindness group I've felt a bit of a withdrawal. I really like sending people gifts. Now, a couple of weeks ago I got a truly gorgeous box from Holly that made me tear up a bit - it was full of yarn, books, and assorted other goodies and really made up for the months of being ignored. She's great. It made me want to pay it forward in some way. I've made a couple of decisions. First, I'm going to get back into the charity knitting and crocheting. Holly is involved with a group that makes shawls and lapghans for kidney patients. I plan on using some stash to warm up some people who are in the hospital. If you remember, my dad had a kidney removed a few years ago. Thankfully he didn't need any further treatment. I'd like to make things for people who do need treatment. I'm also going to make more snuggles - little blankets for animals in shelters. Khloe is a big fan of caring for animals and has been urging me to do something - she wants to adopt a pet but making a snuggle will be a much better option. I can use stash for that, too.
The other idea I came up with is a newish feature on ravelry - the gifting of patterns. I can browse some queues, see what some people would like to have, and gift it to them. I think I'll start with people who are friends (of course, Holly has no wish list, darn it) and move on to those people who are in the same groups as me - maybe a Ravenclaw housemate or someone else who loves the Savvy Girls, for example. Unfortunately it can't be done anonymously so the giftees will know it's me but I think it will make them smile - and that, after all, is what I really want to do - make someone smile.

Spring Fever

2010-04-23T09:12:00.004-05:00

The beautiful weather and cheerful flowers that have appeared everywhere really have inspired me.

Now I not only have nature on my mind but on my head as well! It's all croched with beads for sparkle. I feel like a woodland fairy or elf when I wear it - maybe I need wings. Hmmmm...

Not Much Kindness After All

2010-04-12T19:37:00.003-05:00

I've been in the Random Acts Of Kindness group on ravelry since I've been on ravelry - and I always try to get at least one package sent out every month, even if it's a scrape to pay the postage. Most of the time I don't get anything from anyone. It's been two months since I've gotten the last RAK, so I posted my list on the thread that I thought was a reminder to other members that my list hasn't gotten any bites. Well, apparently that's not how it works anymore. Someone in the group got crabby with me about reposting my list. You know, I don't ask for Malabrigo and Wollmeise. I usually only ask for a pattern or two and maybe some tea. Well, screw it. I'll send the package to New Zealand tomorrow and that will be it - I'll leave the group and not ask for another thing. You can't imagine how pissed I am.
I was already upset at Lime and Violet - they spent the last episode badmouthing stay at home moms, people who live in trailers, men who buy beer....all sorts of people in my life and me as well. I spent two days talking myself out of leaving a very bad review on itunes - does anyone else get sick of hearing about Violet's plague and how "busy" she is or how much smarter Lime is than anyone else in town? I'd calmed myself down from their attack on my life and loved ones - and now a ravelry group starts in on me.
At least spring break is over and I can have some privacy again.

I Found a New Skill - Sorta

2010-04-04T19:55:00.004-05:00

So, you know that I knit, crochet, sew a bit, all kinds of other things - but until recently I've never felted. It's kind of fun! Of course, I did something incredibly easy but still it was neat. Yes - it's a purple top hat. I made it in homor of Order of the Phoenix member Dedalus Diggle. For now it's got the pins on it for decoration, but I'm planning on making some interchangeable bands and pins - I have a great idea for ostrich plumes, tulle, and lily petals. As soon as it was pulled out of the washer, though, the weather got very springlike and warm so I won't be wearing it for awhile. That's okay. I think the girl child wants one, too.

I've been knitting on the Evenstar shawl. It's turning out great. I've finished clue one and am starting clue two - but it's on hold for a couple of days while I knit on a pair of mitts for Cylon War with my Battlestar Galactica group. The pattern came out today and a couple of people are already done with the first one. I need to get myself in gear or I'll get toasted by a toaster! It's a great pattern - I'm glad I'll be getting a pair! They'll have to wait until cooler weather, too, though.

This week the kids are on spring break. I hope the weather stays nice so they can play outside and I can work in the yard a bit. It will be a very long vacation if we're stuck inside together!

A Little Something

2010-03-28T21:45:00.002-05:00

I've had something bothering me for a little while now - I just need to vent a bit. It is absolutely never appropriate to make fun of another person's interests. Teasing, taunting, whatever does nothing but kill self esteem. (Ask me how I know.) Yesterday Eric showed me a very upsetting video on youtube of a little girl crying hysterically and her mom, holding the camera, and her siblings teasing her and making it worse. Why the hell would a mother - or anyone - vidoetape that, let alone post it to the internet? I'm so upset with myself for watching it, but I'm more upset with a world that thinks it's acceptable. New interests should be encouraged, whether in a child or an adult. If everyone did the same things as everyone else all the time, well, use your imagination.
I'll let that be enough. You know what I'm saying and where I'm going - I need to get back to my creative mind and the anger was killing it. I'll be back in a day or two with a new project that I'm tickled with.

Guesswhatguesswhatguesswhat!!!

2010-03-17T13:18:00.002-05:00

I just met another knitter in town! I'm just so excited. I told her about ravelry and she told me about a fiber guild that's kind of close. I got her email so I can let her know when the group meets again. She also told me that she spins alpaca from a local farm - how cool is that? Know how we met? I was wearing one of my shawls! We exchanged some information while we could - she's a cashier at Kmart so I had to go when people got in line. I'm just so excited, though. I had to tak about before my head exploded from happiness. Squee!

Technological Frustration

2010-03-14T14:06:00.002-05:00

Last week I was helping some kids with their vocabulary words at a grade school in town. They were working along so I looked out the window because the sun had come out - it had been raining like crazy all morning - and there, sitting on the ground, was a gorgeous blue jay. He was spectacular. His colorings put an idea in my head to make a colorway and knit a sweater for myself in those blues and grays. Unfortunately, however, we don't have cell phones anymore. Even when we did the camera on mine was crappy. At that moment I would have loved to have been able to take a picture and email it to myself. I suppose it will be a little while before we get phones again, too. I'd really like to get an iphone, though, because of frustration number two - many podcasts now have apps for iphones with special content and features. It's very frustrating for me, and I'm sure other listeners, because not everyone is Apple-crazy. Maybe I'd like to look at an android phone - but the apps probably don't work for that. I don't have an ipod touch, either - my little pink buddy is a first-generation nano, no bells or whistles, just audio pleasure. I won't stop listening to the podcasts that have decided to add app features, but I will be pouty about it.
I guess if any of you want to buy me an iphone, or another app-friendly smart phone, so that I can keep up, I would love you forever and sing your praises daily. Just sayin'.

My Favorite Podcasts

2010-03-09T09:21:00.003-06:00

Well, I warned you all awhile ago that I would share my favorite podcasts with you. These are not all of the ones that I subscribe to, just the ones that excite me the most when there's a new episode.
Let's talk about the non-knitting ones first. I only listen to one Doctor Who podcast and that's the big one - Doctor Who:Podshock. I think they were the first on the subject and they're amazing. The hosts are very knowledgeable on the episodes, audiobooks, actors, and everything else about the show. I love the interviews they've done with former Doctors and companions and the episode reviews. The latest episodes have been from the biggest and oldest Doctor Who convention - Gallifrey One. Yes, someday I will be there having cocktails with Louis, James, Ken, Tara, and all of the people who make it sound like the best place to be in February.
I listen to two main Harry Potter podcasts - MuggleCast and PotterCast. Both have several hosts and cover the same stories and news, but they each have unique features. For example, PotterCast has a segment called Potter Pundits which explores the Harry Potter books in relation to other types of literature. MuggleCast has a segment called Chapter by Chapter - you know what that is. I like listening to the hosts talk about each chapter in detail in regards to both what's happened in previous books and what's still to come. Both podcasts are usually an hour long and have fun, interesting hosts - they all know each other, too, so once in awhile one show will reference the other. I've linked to the main webpage for each, instead of straight to the podcast, so you can see the other fun things each site has.
The last podcast I enjoy that's not about knitting is Smart Mouths. It's news, politics, entertainment, and a variety of things. The hosts, some of whom are from MuggleCast, are young and educated but also not afraid to be silly. It's not something for the mild - they use very adult language. I must confess, most of what I know about the world's politics I've learned from these guys.
Okay, on to knitting! It's a big list so prepare yourselves. Of course, since many of you are knitters you probably already listen to them all!
We'll start with Brass Needles. Miss Kalendar, the hostess, has such a sweet voice ad not only talks about her knitting and spinning but sci-fi and steampunk. I have a huge online girl crush on her - how can I not? Yarn, Star Trek, steampunk conventions....she's amazing. Oh, and she's beautiful and brilliant, too. Of course!
Electric Sheep is so funny. She's English, so there's the great accent - but she has great essays and the absolute best reviews of knitting magazines ever. Once in awhile she gets upset and lets off some steam but it's never trivial. One of her episodes has a story she wrote about her knitting group robbing the Victoria and Albert Museum - cracked me up to the point of not being able to stand.
Double Knit is two women who knit, watch lots of movies, and read tons of books. I don't know how they have time! There's also a baby who contributes the occasional adorable noises and giggles.
The High Fiber Diet is all kinds of content - knitting, crochet, spinning, gadgets, even recipes! Coggie has alot of tips and tricks to share. She's had several different cohosts, including her husband, Sarge, and her daughter, Boo. There's alot of laughter with Coggie.
I believe I've already talked about how much I love the Knitmore Girls. How can I not? Both Jasmine and Gigi are amazing knitters. They have segments in the show called Mother Knows Best and When Knitting Attacks - both full of helpful information to make one's knitting better. I could go on for days about them.
Chrissy from Manic Purl has, I must say, the greatest opening music for her show. I dance every time. She's in Vancouver and I loved hearing her excitement about the Olympics this year. She podcasts like she's talking on the phone to her best friend - full of enthusiasm.
Stash and Burn is two girls from San Francisco. They've been podcasting for a long time together. They use yarns I've never heard of before and talk about them so that it's easy to visualize. They also led me to check out patterns in my early days - to look at knitwear beyond what I saw on Craftster.
Does anyone not listen to David on Sticks and String? His accent alone is worth the half hour of his show - but his essays are so good and thought-provoking. I think it's adorable how he kind of talks to himself in a rambly way sometimes, too. He knits very complicated things - but seems to only work on one thing at a time. He's a sci-fi lover, too.
Meghan and Stitch It - well, I really don't know where to start. I learned so much about spinning from her. She's so much more than fibery, though - she's a make-it-from-scratch and grow-it-yourself powerhouse of supermomness. I need to learn how to be motivated from her. She seems to do more in a day than I get done in three.
So those are my must-listen-to podcasts. Please check them out. A search on itunes will find them all and many, many more. You don't even need an ipod - just speakers on your computer.
I want to confess, though - alot of these podcasters are good friends with each other. I'm so jealous of that. I'm in their groups on ravelry but never know what to say - I'm very shy in forums for some reason and don't know how to become friends with online acquaintances - well, except for Jenny, of course, but that was a different situation. If you could offer any advice or suggestions I would love it.
I hope the links work for you - please let me know of any problems or if you have any podcasts I should check out.

Percy!

2010-02-25T09:46:00.002-06:00

I'm a bit slow with this post - days are getting away from me again. I took the kids to see Percy Jackson last week and we loved it. It's alot of fun. There was everything I love in a movie - adventure, a quest, eye candy, a good but not sappy ending...all in all a great time. No, it's not exactly like the book - but what "based on" movies are? I liked the changes - movie Grover is hilarious, the Pearls of Persephone made for a really fun way to get to Hades and add some action, and Persephone herself was cool and sassy. I imagine the missing characters will come up in future movies - assuming the rest of the books are made into movies. I want to see it again but the chances of that happening are slim - I'd have to go tonight and I have knitting tonight. I doubt there would be time to knit, feed people, and get to the theater without running into myself. I do know, however, that I will be getting the dvd and watching it many, many times.

Wow!

2010-02-13T13:48:00.002-06:00

Did you guys watch the Opening Ceremonies last night? I so want to go to Newfoundland now to hear the music and see the dancing - and those costumes totally rocked! I don't even know what to say about the beautiful boy who flew during the Joni Mitchell prairie part - magical. I love the Olympics.
Before I go, please say a little prayer for the family of the athlete who died yesterday. What a horrible tragedy.
Hugs!

It's Percy Day!

2010-02-12T12:14:00.004-06:00

We are so excited to see the Percy Jackson movie that opens tonight! I made Kerry this hat to celebrate.

I'm rather pleased with how it turned out - except

apparently my gauge was a bit off. oops.

So, is everyone tired of the snow yet? I think just about the whole country has gotten at least a little bit. I hope you're all keeping warm and cozy.

That's all - short and sweet! Happy Valentine's Day - hugs!

New Warmers

2010-02-03T21:45:00.002-06:00

The assignment for divination was to make something to protect our palms. Well, you all know how I love my mitts! These are made out of the same Handgefaerbt that I made socks out of last year - the skeins are so big that I still have some left!
Right now I'm working on a couple of February assignments - transfiguration and herbology. I have an idea for both charms and DADA, too - and my brother's sweater is still going strong. No, I'm not overdoing it. I'm trying to cut down on nutrasweet and the best way for me to do that is to keep busy. I'm not one to do a ton of big projects, either. I want to make sweaters for myself and have the patterns and stash to do it - I just need to make a plan to get it done.
What else is new? Khloe got straight A's on her report card - again. I don't dare try to pay her for good grades or I'd be broke. She's still not interested in Harry Potter, though. She watches the movies with us but the books just don't grab her. Kerry and I are very excited about the upcoming Percy Jackson movie - the ads look great. I hope it comes here so we can watch it a couple of times - I don't like driving, especially at night, so I don't go to movies that aren't here. (Why don't I like driving? Tiny car, big animals in the road, no cell phone...you understand.)
I'll be going now - more pics as the projects get done!

I Apologize

2010-01-20T11:43:00.002-06:00

I know that you come here to see pictures of my kids and projects and to hear stories or to see what kind of rambling I'm doing - but lately there's been alot of personal stuff going on in my life. Oh, I've been knitting - it's amazing how much stockinette in the round can get done when the thoughts are fighting in my head. I'm just not very wordy right now. I'm kind of keeping things in because that's what I do and besides, this is a fiber blog, not a life blog. Once things settle down a bit I'll be back better than ever, I promise. I'll be showing you what I'm making for the House Cup, too, so you can see how my work is getting better. I just need to rock back and forth in the corner for a bit.
Please, if you can, donate to Doctors Without Borders or the Red Cross. If you want something for your donation, ravelry has a huge list of designers who are donating their proceeds to charity. You can even gift patterns to other ravelers, too. I don't know if any groups are collecting afghan squares - please let me know so I can crochet some. My heart aches every time I see those sad children.
Hugs to you all.

Ten in '10

2010-01-09T15:55:00.002-06:00

The latest episode of Stash and Burn discussed an idea called Ten in '10. The premise is to select the ten projects in your ravelry queue that have been there for awhile but keep getting pushed back for whatever reason and resolve to make them this year. I decided to give it a go - I have a few patterns that have been in my head for awhile. I only have six that I tagged in my queue but I intend to get them done soon. I'm going to apply the concept to other things as well. For example, three podcasters have talked about the book The Outlander. It's now on the list of must-reads. I know there are other books that I've been wanting to enjoy but just haven't for whatever reason. They are now another Ten in '10 list.
I've decided to write to the DIY network about fixing the house. With Eric's hours cut and me not exactly on the top of the hiring list it's going to be impossible to take care of the things that need to be done. Of course, thousands of people try all of the time - but it's worth a shot anyway - unless any of you want to get some roofing experience under your belt! (trade ya some knitwear!)
The new year has been lazy so far - cold and snowy, but lazy. We've been relaxing with Harry Potter and some of the TeenNick shows but mostly just the usual being together. I can't wait to get back to normal - kids at school, knitting group, killing the phone battery talking to Jenny.
Can anyone design a custom avatar for me? I'd like a combination of Ravenclaw and Battlestar Galactica that says "Cosmo" on it - Cosmo being my new call name.
Gotta be going - Legend of the Seeker is on now and, well, Richard is eye candy.

My Pretty Tree!

2009-12-16T09:32:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to share a picture of my tree. We don't have any ornaments on it - might not put any on at all, either. The way the lights glow off of the white is festive enough for me.

Thanks, Bro

2009-12-07T20:40:00.002-06:00

So I have this little brother. Well, little in that he's seven years younger. He's actually alot bigger than I am considering that I'm kind of the runt in the family. He's a great recipient of handmade gifts. A couple of years ago I crocheted him a pair of alien-faced hot pads and he uses them all the time. I've offered to knit him a wool sweater since there aren't any in the stores around here. He's kind of an outdorsey type of guy and spends alot of time bicycling all over and adventuring with his friends. He asked if he could send me a link for something he'd like to have made and of course I said yes and now I have a problem. He needs some cords. I love knottong cords and such - and the site he sent had links to some awesome knotwork sites. I've always wanted to make gorgeous knots - think of the closure possibilities for sweaters and bags! I could make some out of wires for shawl pins or other jewelry. I could combine all of my fibery stuff with some great cording and a big, spectacular knotted accent and just blow everyone away. I'm doomed. Do you see the problem? Yep - who's going to feed the kids? Ha ha!
This month, and a good part of last month, have been all about making things for others. It's really killing me. I usually only make stuff for me - being a spoiled little brat and all. Well, Anna Dalvi, the designer behind all of the gorgeous Mystic shawl knitalongs, has a new one that started today and it's free. I signed up last week for it and I think I'm going to cast on tonight. Maybe a few rows for yours truly will make the last of the gifts a bit less work.
For all of you in the big weather areas - drive carefully! I'll talk to you all again soon.

Wrackspurt attack

2009-12-02T11:47:00.002-06:00

I had a list of everything I wanted to talk about - more shawls, mom retiring, gifts, etc - but my brain has been attacked by a wrackspurt and even the notes to myself aren't helping. I've done it to myself again. A couple of weeks ago I figured that there's plenty of time to make a few things for people for Christmas. Ha ha ha ha ha! Yes, I'm working on some things - but my dad isn't getting the socks that he asked for. Know why? Because a size twelve is a heck of alot of stockinette and I have kids for mental anguish so my knitting should relax me - not make me want to pierce myself with dpn's.
I'd really like a day of doing nothing but hanging out with the BFF at the farm supply store. I could look for unusual food stuff for my brother, she could get Chicken Poop for her hubby, we could laugh at the goofy things everywhere - and maybe buy ourselves some tools - and then go someplace with warm caffeinated beverages to talk about Harry and the Doctor and all of our other commonalities. (Chicken Poop, for those who don't know, is a brand of lip balm. She probably wouldn't buy him a bag of the real stuff.)
I need to clean out the corner of the room where our tree goes. The girl child is driving me crazy about getting it up. I don't really want to, though - Armand Assante is playing Odysseus on TV and I'm a huge fan of both mythology and handsome Italians.
Oh! Before I go, I added a link to the shopping section on the side. See it? I'll wait here while you check it out - it's the most gorgeous clothes......back? Why, I would love a gift certificate for my birthday! How thoughtful! No, I'm not full-on goth. It's mostly in my head because I've still not worked on my sewing skills - because there's no freaking sewing supply store around here! Grumble grumble grumble.
Okay, now I'll go. See you soon!

Coincidence?

2009-11-10T09:12:00.002-06:00

So after talking about my wish for new music last week the strangest thing happened. The new issue of Hispanic magazine came in the mail (no, I'm not hispanic by a long shot and don't know why I get the magazine since I didn't order it but it's interesting) and the whole issue is about music! There's a big article about new artists and the style they perform. I must sit down one of these days and look all of them up, maybe on YouTube, to find the ones I like most. See, although I'm about as ethnic as mayo I love latin music. I have a couple of Flamenco cds that really must be played more often - one of them is Charo, remember her? I love Charo - she's always been such a unique character. I'll probably wind up spending a whole day listening to new-to-me artists because one person will lead to more and the next thing I know the kids will be home from school all crabby because I forgot to pick them up and it's pouring or something.
Actually, I know how I am. I have a serious podcast and audiobook addiction because one leads to another and the author/host will mention one I'd not heard of and the search is on again and, of course, itunes has a selection on the side of other podcasts or books that other people like and that leads to more...you see my problem. I've learned to not subscribe until I listen, though. I seem to be very particular about what goes in my ears. Unpleasant voices don't get listened to again. People who smack when they talk - you know what I mean - may get another chance if the content is good enough. If a podcaster yawns they're done. I've heard two podcasters yawn while they're recording - if they're boring themselves then why keep talking? I'm kind of picky about pronunciations, too, but I try to remember that different regions say things differently. That all being said, I love the availability of free audio pleasure. I know, I don't have the links on the side yet, but only because I'm still working on it! I keep finding new authors and podcasts! I'm so amazed at how much brilliance is out there - as a sci-fi lover I'm in a kind of hog heaven. I just finished a three-book audiobook that still makes me crazy because it's so incredible. (The author just got published, too - buy book one if you don't do audio - it's called Seventh Son and it's crazy good - no, he's not paying me, either.)
I follow several actors from the Harry Potter movies on twitter and they're hinting at awesome stuff! The next two movies sound to be amazing. I'm so excited already that I can't sit still. Tom Felton tweets when he gets his hair bleached in preparation for Draco and, poor guy, he gets bleached alot. Have you seen him as Tom? Wow, he's a good-looking guy. As Draco he's not so appealing to me but I think it's, you know, just because of the character. I follow Matt Lewis, too - Neville, one of my favorite characters, and not just because of the upcoming SuperNevilleness that's being filmed. He's so funny on twitter. I've told y'all about twitter before. Why don't you tweet yet?
I'm a member of several forums, as you know. Lately, though, I haven't been very active in the groups. The House Cup has gotten so big that I feel lost. I've kept up with the activity - there's alot going on with some of my classmates, but I just don't have much to say. You know, though, it doesn't seem to have been noticed by anyone. I used to be very active, chatting with people, commenting on all of the great projects, etc, but my lack of participation doesn't seem to bother anyone. It's kind of depressing. Does anyone miss me?
I suppose I should get going - I joined FlyLady and now have a cleaning schedule to work on. FlyLady, which I will link to, is a great site for those of us who get overwhelmed trying to take care of a whole house and everything that goes with it - even the stuff that I'd never think of. So I'm off to care for my home. Have a great day!

Shawl-O-Rama

2009-11-02T13:26:00.005-06:00

I've been knitting shawls! Not big huge ones, the small shoulder shawl/shawlette/triangle scarf shawls that are everywhere on ravelry and are so cute and easy. I just finished a fourth one that for some reason wasn't as much fun as I thought it would be - when it's blocked I'll post a pic of it, too. The top picture is the Travelling Woman shawl. It knits up so fast. I used some Socks That Rock in Lenore and love how it turned out. I've worn it alot - not with the point in front though. I need to get used to that look. The second one is a skein that Jenny dyed called Gothelberry Pink. I named the shawl Lucrezia because it kind of reminds me of something Lucrezia Borgia would wear while poisoning her next victim. I love how the colorway knit up with just bits of pink and blurs of purple where the dyes ran together. She needs to dye some more so y'all can make some shawls with it! The third one is inspired by Theodore roosevelt for DADA last month. I dyed the yarn blue to represent how he loved being outside. The pattern is called Forest Canopy - he found out that he'd become president while hiking in the woods. I haven't worn it yet but Khloe has - she wrapped up in it a couple of times when she got chilled watching Teen Nick or Disney Channel. I've printed out patterns for about ten more of these little shawls. I can't resist them right now, and I have plenty of sock yarns to work with. Of course, I should be working on gifts right now - some of the assignments in both the House Cup and the Battlestar Galactica groups fit well with what I have planned for people - but you all know that I tend towards selfishness sometimes - especially when I've been dealing with a sick child. I can only handle so much Zack and Cody before I want to scream, eat candy, and be a brat. I'm sure you know what I mean.

I've been up late lately blogging in my head - then can't exactly remember everything I wanted to say. Jenny suggested that I talk into my voice recorder and then type it out. It would be handy to be able to plug the recorder into the computer and just have all of the words appear and then I could just add pictures and edit. I don't see that happening in my near future, though, so I'll have to get used to the sound of my voice - after I get used to saying it all out loud and hoping that the family doesn't think I've lost it!

I've been thinking alot about music lately. Yes, I listen to songs on my ipod - it's not all spoken content. I love listening to my favorite songs and feeling the notes and instruments flow with and around each other. I dug out a box of old cassettes the other day. I used to listen to them at work - when I had my own office and could listen to music. I surprised myself by remembering the words - all I ever wanted, everything I've waited for, build my world around you... I met the man who sang it once and he told me that he'd written it for a very special person. I'm blanking out on his name but I was surprised at how small he was - pictures of him always seemed so big, but maybe it was just the hair (late 80's, you know). I pulled out another tape that my brother had made for me - beautiful stuff that should've gotten more popular than it did - if wishes were horses, then dreamers would ride, baby. I need to get some itunes cards and make up some playlists. My tapes will be gone before long. I need to check out some new stuff, too. Maybe some of you could suggest things - or send a cd?? - that I may like. I suppose for now I'll listen to Stevie sing to the poet in her heart and let Debbie tell me that my hair is beautiful - and agree with Joey that I wanna be sedated! He he!

My Baby is Nine

2009-10-11T11:52:00.003-05:00

I'm a bit late with this - her birthday was a week ago - but my little girl is in the last year of single-digit ages. I'd planned to scan a picture of her when she was about two to show how much she's grown but the scan turned out all psychedellic and not exactly what I wanted, so I just have a current picture. She did her hair all by herself, too. Isn't she pretty? Before I know it she'll be all grown up. I hope she spends a little time right now enjoying being a kid - there's plenty of time for drama later in life.

I don't know about you, but I think this early cold weather is for the birds. Trick or treating will be no fun at all with a big coat and all the accessories. At least I have some nice warm socks to keep my toes from freezing!

Certified

2009-09-30T13:20:00.002-05:00

Guess what! I'm now officially certified as a paraprofessional - a teacher's aide! This is a rather big deal for mee. See, I didn't finish college or beauty school. I was discharged from Air Force basic training. Heck, I'm divorced! Sensing a theme here? I'm not much of a finisher. I was encouraged to be a teacher's aide by my friends Cheley and Ruth. The crazy part is that I didn't take a class and barely studied. I passed - highly - on my own brain alone. I am now able to work with other people's children and help them learn. Of course, now I have to wait for an opening and apply for it, but I'm a step closer than I was!

Stop Scaring the Kids!

2009-09-23T09:18:00.002-05:00

Apparently this year at school the teachers have decided to essentially lead the kids to believe that the swine flu is out to kill them. I think that the kids should be told to wash their hands and not cough in each others' faces to avoid spreading all germs rather than stress flu shots and hand sanitizer. I spent an evening trying to convince the boy child that he wasn't going to die. He was very upset that he had a headache and was convinced that the swine flu was killing him. I keep telling them that plenty of people have survived this flu, just like people survive all flus. Being a passive person I'd rather some other parents call the school and complain - but I suppose it's time to step up to the mommy plate and try to score a run in sanity. Heh - I don't exactly have much experience with sanity so it's probably going to be hard on my brain.
In other news, not much is going on. I'm remaking my monthly meal schedule to allow for new things and less frozen pizza - we love pizza but it's become my go-to meal more often than not. Summer food is hard for me for some reason. I'm much better making cold-weather comfort food - chili, meatloaf, lasagna, things like that.
I'm on the lookout for some comfortable yet cool steampunky pants. If anyone finds some, please let me know - retail or a sewing pattern. Thanks!

New Family Member and Other News

2009-09-01T08:13:00.015-05:00

Happy September, my friends! Crappy August is finally over - thank goodness! The kids are in school, the House Cup is starting a new term, and I'm back to days of quiet in which to get my work done.

The little guy in the picture is Bob. Khloe found him in the yard and has adopted him. He's got a nice little home with dirt to dig in, a teacup of water, and crickets for snacks. Why did she name him Bob? Apparently he reminds her of me. I'm cool with that - I've been compared to worse in my days! Bob is a cute little guy - he sits on the pile of dirt and watches people. He sat waiting for Khloe last weekend - she was with her dad - and didn't snuggle down in his hole until she came home. She's very attached to him and plays with him alot. Unfortunately she now believes that she's responsible enough for a fuzzy rodent-type pet. Sigh.

Last month was unusually cool - I drained the pool because it just wasn't swimming weather. I got alot of knitting done. We had a knitalong in the House Cup for the Ice Queen pattern from knitty - a beautiful beaded lace cowl that's had my eye for the past year. I dyed some merino-silk laceweight from Knit Picks to make it. My dye job is perfect - rick, jewely blue with the shine from the silk and depth in the wool. GazeboGal, my friend and hero, sent me some gorgeous bronze beads. My new cowl is perfectly Ravenclaw! I finished my Ravenclap, too - the huge blue and silver clapotis that was supposed to be done for the movie release but didn't quite get there. It's great. I have some of the second skein left so I've been thinking about knitting something small with it and dyeing it dark red so the stripes will be red and violet. I also squeezed in a couple of pairs of socks for the Summer of Socks. The Horcrux pattern was so easy and fast to make. The zigzags don't show as much on mine as they do on others I've seen but they'llbe hidden by jeans so it doesn't matter. They're knit in Socks that Rock - I love the fabric that STR makes when knit up. It's nice and solid and squishy. The Lenore pattern was fun. The cuff is a cool diamond pattern and then the eyelets down the foot look nice. I made them in Handgefaerbt - my favorite sock yarn. I have enough left from the skein for another pair of socks.

Obviously I still can't get the pictures where they need to be. Please, if you can help me with my lacking computer skills, come over and show me. I'll make cookies! We've been having alot of issues with this computer lately. Maybe I have worn it out.

I don't know how many of you watch pro wrestling. On Monday nights there's now a guest host who runs the matches and such. I want to do it! Of course, being surrounded by all of the eye candy would probably make me speechless, but it would be fun to try. Too bad the Rock wouldn't be there - he's a bronzed nugget of man candy with humor and great teeth - and y'all know it! Mrow, baby!

Yesterday I discovered a show on the History Channel called Clash of the Gods - it's about the characters in Greek mythology. I've been interested in mythology since junior high school. But - the show reminded me that I still haven't read the final Percy Jackson book! Don't yell at me, Holly, I know I'm slacking! So, I got it out and read until midnight last night and am ready to get on it again this morning. Actually, I want to read all of them again. I love the series. It's really a fun way to mix the old and modern. I thought about sending the first book with the swap that I'm in - but I'm going to be selfish and keep it here in case boy child wants to start it. (he's rather interested in mythology, too!)

Yes, I'm in a swap! I'm excited, too. It's in the Battlestar Galactica group that I'm in. The idea is to send your partner something from stash! My partner likes books, too, so I've got a book from my library for her and I'm knitting a little something for her. I need to ask her about colors - she likes red and wouldn't you just know that there's really no red in my stash! Now, if she was a purple person I'd have no troubles at all!

In the next few days I plan to do a bit of redecorating the blog. Don't be surprised if things look different! I'm compiling some new links and deciding what can be gotten rid of. I may find some new wallpaper, too.

Afternoon at the Park

2009-08-13T08:07:00.007-05:00

There's a huge park in our town that has lots of lakes, wildlife, and walking paths. Since Eric is on vacation this week we decided to take the kids there to feed the fish and geese and let them play on the playground - and hopefully tire them out so they won't stay up all night again. It was a warm day but the park is very open so there was a really nice breeze. We had a really nice time. Unfortunately, the girls were up all night again. Oh, well.

Doctor Bobbilicious

2009-07-30T11:36:00.002-05:00

I was listening to a Dr Who podcast yesterday and one of the hosts is a prolific Who scarf knitter - she can make one in two weeks. Now, for those of you who don't know, a Dr Who scarf is about 18 feet long and is a bunch of colors in a certain order depending on which season the knitter is recreating. It's huge. So, as I listened and cleaned the lonely, unused pool, I decided to make my own scarf - but not in the colors of the show - brown and golds and such that don't attract me at all. I'm going to pick a scheme from one of the seasons and use my signature colors - the ones that make my friends say "Oh, that's a color Bobbi would like" and make myself a Doctor Bobbilicious scarf. Besides, I have some things in common with the doctor - not the time travel ability, unfortunately, or maybe fortunately - I can see myself travelling back and getting wasted on moonshine with my grandpa or something equally inappropriate (although I'd probably get to know him!) I, like the Doctor, have a constant stream of thoughts and conversations in my head - no, I don't need medicated! I also can fix the things that need fixed, either with my unsonic screwdriver or some glue from my collection. I sometimes talk too much and too fast and love bananas. I would love to be his companion even though he seems to be attracted to Gryffindors even though he's clearly a Ravenclaw. So anyway I'm going to start working on a scarf. I'll keep you posted on how it's going.
I've been listening to Cast On again, now that I can forward through the music, and have been thinking about her series "Make Do and Mend". She's been inspired by WW2 ads for making do when times are tough. Well, things have gotten a bit, well, tight around here lately. I have alot of skills (not to brag, but I do) that I should really be using to stretch everything - clothes, meals, etc. I know I'll be making some Christmas gifts - because even though the kids all want new fancy-schmancy cell phones they're not getting them. No laptops, either. I told them that they're all getting hats and socks! Poor Jake had the most horrified look on his face but said he believes me. Smart boy. I've been working hard on my Amazon problem and doing well, I must say. I need to save my honey some money because I tend to spoil myself a bit too much and he's really not too happy with me about it. (the pouty puppy face has no effect at all on him - I've tried!)
It's almost time for the kids to go back to school. My boy will be in middle school this year. Tomorrow is orientation. I'll walk around the building with him and check out his locker and be sad that the little chubby baby is so big now as all moms probably do. It's going to be fun. Getting us all up and ready to go, however, well, that won't be fun at all!

Hot Locks and the Half-Blood Prince

2009-07-18T11:55:00.003-05:00

That's me- the back of my head with my new purple hair. The sunlight makes it a bit lighter but you can still see it. I like my hair. I spent years fighting it - always crying becuse it's not straight and I couldn't style it like everyone else did. When I was poor and married I just let it grow - and when I was expecting the kids it was to my waist. I had more hair than I ever imagined. People used to look at me - I told myself all the time it's the hair and not the crappy old car or the look of despiration I always wore. Pride in my hair kind of stuck. I got alot of grays while I was married so I have to color it alot and that's where the purple comes in - my roots started to show and I wanted something a bit more fun than brown. I don't care if people look at me now - I still tell myself it's the hair and not the chatty grubby kids I always seem to have around me. Of course, Khloe is getting looked at, too. Those of you who know hew know that she's very beautiful with gorgeous eyes. I tell her that's why people look but she thinks people are making fun of her. I'll keep trying to convince her otherwise and someday maybe she'll believe me.

Yesterday the kids and I went to see the new Harry Potter movie.Kerry and I have read the book and had told Khloe about alot of it. She's not as much of a HP fan as I would like but she came with us - of course, I agreed to take her to see Ice Age 3 as a bribe. About halfway through the movie she got interested and asked questions. I told her that apparating is like how Doctor Who travels in the Tardis - disappears and reappears. Then, of course, she asked if the vanishing cabinets were bigger on the inside. I hugged her with pride and told her no, they're just boxes. And then the end came - and she cried and cried - all the way home. People outside the theater gave us sympathetic looks. I tried to explain it all to her - why Snape did it and that Dumbledore was sick but she was too upset. We'll talk about it again and I'll help her understand why her favorite person died. Jenny had it tougher - her daughter is a huge Snape fan and was very upset about it from the other side - why would her favorite person do that? Ah, kids. At least my baby girl is on the path of sci-fi geekdom already. Momma's so proud!

In my quest to find the perfect perfume oil I have found a Fragrance Goddess. Her etsy shop is Velvet Moon Bathery - I'll link her, don't worry. I got several samples from her and they're magnificent - even the ones I don't like as much are still really good. Her scents are smooth and warm and last for hours - they're not loud or too strong and don't clear the room like some I've tried. I will share my samples with anyone who asks - yes, mom, I'll give you a couple, don't worry. If you order from her you can tell her I sent you - I won't get a discount but I'd like for her to know that I'm talking about her.

My boy will be starting middle school this fall. He's getting so big. I have the mom thing of thinking about him as a baby still, taking his first steps and running around the house with a big bouncy ball wanting to play with the big boys walking down the street. We got the letter about fifth grade orientation and registration and when he can try out his locker combination and check out the school. I'm so nervous and excited for him. Are all moms like this? Does the excitement ever wear off? I hope not - it's keeping me from sinking into a middle aged rut of boredom.

I've been rewatching Battlestar Galactica. Have you seen it? It's really a great show. I was invited to join a kal group on ravelry and it's been fun discussing the characters with other fans. I was selected to be in the Galactica crew. My ship colors are blue and gray - same as Ravenclaw! I need some dark blue cotton for some dishcloths - the assignment is to make dishcloths with the logo on them. I plan to make them as a gift for someone - another sci-fi geek who I admire. I also joined the Team Galactica for Tour de Fleece even though it's almost over.

I think that's about it. I need to turn in some assignments for the House Cup and get busy on my OWL. Until later, my friends!

What a Week

2009-07-04T17:22:00.002-05:00

Sorry it's been so long. I was going to post several days ago when I dyed my hair a magnificent shade of magenta called "Deadly Nightshade". Well, I had some trouble getting a picture and then...insert the dun dun dunnn music...
Khloe got sick. Really sick. She has an infection in both ears and strep throat. She's been in alot of pain all night and we're both exhausted. I've had her resting on my heating pad and called the doctor for a strong pain medicine for her - ibuprofen hasn't been cutting it. Thank goodness she's feeling better finally and is spending the night with Grandma. Thank goodness Grandma is available - the dad skipped out of having his kids (again) when he found out that she's been ill. You know, this mom job is alot harder than it's made out to be. There are no designated hours and no instruction manual. I'm glad that I get a break once in awhile!
Since it's been a long and groggy week there's been no making of things on my part. Khloe, however, has made another felt flower barette. It's on her new blog which I will link to on the sidebar. She wants to sell it on etsy. I may wind up buying it from her because I'm in a flower-in-my-hair kind of mood these days. If anyone is interested in it, let us know. Maybe if you ask her she'll make you one!
Last week was hot and nasty and we spent every day in the pool. This week we're all peeling. Let's just say that someone (coughmecough) is lax with the sunscreen. Isn't it funny that when we were young the highest SPF was 15? Now everything is 30 or more. I need to get something strong and waterproof for the kids so they don't get spotty like I am lately. Suggestions?
Lastly, I have a ripe tomato! Yay!
See you all later. I'm ready for a nap.

Words

2009-06-20T19:38:00.002-05:00

Recently I have become a big fan of audiobook podcasts. I'm very addicted to one called Antithesis right now - a scifi adventure with lots of stories all tangled together. Through that I found a site called podiobooks - a whole site of podcast books. It's amazing. The books are free but donations are accepted and go to the author. My ipod is full of books and podcasts now - I barely have room for music!
Listening to great writing reminds me that I, long ago, wanted to be a writer. I used to spend alot of time writing stories and poems about anything. It's been a long time since I've done any, though. When I was younger I was so much smarter than I am now. I'm not sure what happened - is it talking to children, chemical dependency (caffeine and nutrasweet), television - I just don't have the language skills that I used to. The kids are shocked at how high my ACT score was because I guess I don't seem like much to them now. I should read more, actually see words rather than listen to them. Any advice?
I'm in love with the new phones. I dream of an Envy 3 or Touch - able to Tweet, blog, surf, keep in touch whereever I am. Unfortunately I don't have much reason to go anywhere since I'm not working. I'm also not in a position to need the constant communication with people. I would love to think that everyone wants to talk to me alot - the truth is that two people call me regularly. When I had a cell it barely got used. It made me sad, actually. When I start working again I will get a super new phone with as many bells and whistles as possible. Just don't be surprised if I ask for your number to text you - just to get my money's worth out of it!

Haircut

2009-06-18T15:12:00.004-05:00

I don't have much to talk about in the knitting world - my hands are acting up again. I have done a bit of spinning and will show it to you when it's done. We all got our summer haircuts yesterday and I thought I'd share my curly, messy style. Of course, I'm a bit shiny - that's what humidity does to me.

That's all for now. See you again soon!

Crafty Khloe

2009-06-11T09:44:00.002-05:00

The other day Khloe was upset because the boys - Kerry and his friend Jacob - wouldn't play with her. I tried everything to settle her down. Nothing worked until I asked if she wanted to do some sewing. I thought we'd do some tee shirt recons but she, of course, had another idea: a tee shirt pillow for Grandma. It's kind of big and a bit lumpy but very squishy - perfect for Grandma to nap on!

Bartering? Anyone?

2009-06-06T12:44:00.003-05:00

Happy Saturday everyone! It's cool and damp here, not very June-like at all. I hope it's nice where you are - or at least you're having a wonderful day.

I have a favorite zinester who writes the Thrifty Vegan series. No, I'm not vegan - right now - but the zines have alot of great information, recipies, tips... all kinds of goodies. She talks in one issue about bartering. I really love the idea. In fact, she and I have discussed a trade - she enjoys handknit washcloths and she makes soap. Well, I can knit cloths for her - any style she wants. I believe I've mentioned that I love handmade soap. She's on vacation right now so talks are on hold but I'm rather excited about it.

Here's a proposal for any of you - I would love to trade or barter. You all know what I do - knit, crochet, a bit of sewing, make cookies...make me an offer. What do you do? Leather working, metal, wood, music, anything? If you're close-ish we can discuss haircuts, tattoos, piercing, babysitting....you get the idea. If you're interested, if you've seen something that you like, if you have something that you know I'd be interested in - let me know! Comment here, email, call, come over. I'm bobbilicious on ravelry and MsBobbilicious on twitter. I'm serious! Let's start a barter/trade/swap network of sorts.
I'll go for now. I really need to get to work on my House Cup assignments and the OWL that may be a bit of a stretch - oh, and quiddich. I'll have some pictures of various things soon - promise!

Yay!

2009-05-28T14:19:00.002-05:00

I've had 800 people read this blog! Eight hundred! That's alot of eyes checking out my stuff.
Today is the first day of summer vacation. It's crappy outside. Doesn't that about figure? Khloe, however, is away with her dad in Tennessee. She called yesterday to tell me that she got to ride a horse. When I get a picture I'll share it with you all. She's thrilled about it. I kept asking about different things and she went back to the horse.
I got a cd in the mail with instructions for making boots. I am so excited - imagine all of the spectacular boots I could have! Once I read through it all I'll be on the hunt for materials. I'm thinking cheetah print and something shiny and black for starters then work to some that lace up like granny boots. If I had the legs I'd be all out for some thigh-high spike heeled fabulousness - alas, my legs are much too short and curvy for such styles.
I was listening to a Doctor Who podcast this morning and they had an interesting talk about Easter eggs on dvds. I have a strong urge now to go through all of my dvds to see if there are any hidden gems. What's hidden in Battlestar Galactica? I can't wait to see!

Thank You, Thank You, Anna

2009-05-26T14:40:00.002-05:00

I must thank the beautiful and talented Anna for her help with pictures. I should have known she could help - check out her blog (Knitting up a Storm) and see how gorgeous her pictures are. She also designs great stuff and has done some yarn clubs - not recently, though, thank goodness because I'm so broke it hurts. I have no pics to share today, though. There are some things done but I just haven't done the ravelry adding yet, so nothing good to see.
I recently knit a halter top for Eric's little niece. It's seriously funny making a "cup" for a one-year-old. Really. Of course, I held it up and told girl child that it was going to be my bikini this summer. She did not approve. I'm making a little top for the other niece right now. Little clothes get done really fast. I should make baby things just for the satisfaction of finishing something. Actually, I'm making some baby socks for quiddich - that should take about 15 minutes or so. I haven't felt much like making things, though. It's been so hot and humid that the yarn sticks to my hands. I haven't spun, either - I would be so covered in roving that I'd look like dayglo Bigfoot.
I got my yearly super sunburn this weekend. You would think that by now I'd know to put on some sunscreen but I start working and loose track of time and spend the next few days hurting and itching. The pool's clean, though, and ready to fill when the rain stops and I can get the ring inflated.
That's all for today - short and sweet, just like me!

Jasmin Rocks!

2009-05-20T09:24:00.004-05:00

I must loudly thank the lovely Miss Jasmin for teaching me how to avoid the dreaded podcast music. I'd hug her if my arms were long enough. If you don't know her, shame! She has a podcast called Knitmore Girls that I love so very much. She and her mom discuss knitting, spinning, and various other things - please check them out. Her mom has a German accent - my great-grandma had an accent and I like to pretend that I'm listening to my ancester teach me knitting sometimes. Cheesy, yes, but cheesiness kind of rules my life. (Eric is from Wisconsin, after all!)

So my reading habits are *finally* ifluncing my offspring. Boy child is reading the wonders of Harry Potter! We've even discussed the movie differences! Yay! He's spent his week of grounding playing quiddich with his wrestling action figures, so I made him a little something: okay, pretend that the pictures are here instead of at the top. (I'm so not a computer person!) Yes, that's Harry and Ginny ready to go - okay, it's hard to imagine a Weasley with boobs like that, but he's pretending, remember!

Summer is coming fast, my friends! Enjoy!

Please Help!!!

2009-05-19T17:14:00.002-05:00

Please, someone, tell me how to fast forward on my ipod nano. I'm so tired of having to listen to stupid songs in the middle of podcasts. Honestly, the podcasters must be joking - that many people can't have such bad taste.
Thank you.

May Flowers!

2009-05-08T09:59:00.009-05:00

Please note - for some reason blogger isn't letting me move the pictures around where they need to go. I hope it's not too messy and confusing for anyone. If you can offer any help, please let me know how to fix the problem! Thank you.

It's getting so pretty outside! I love when the lilacs bloom. They're so pretty and smell so sweet and fresh. We have lilac bushes all over our yard and it's like a purple fence when they're all blooming together.

Yes, that's a topsy-turvy tomato planter. Mom gave it to me for Mother's Day (along with the Mighty Mend-it glue, yay!). I planted a variety that's supposed to give us tomatoes in 45 days or so. It's a cool idea - I put it where the plant will get lots of sunlight so it should do really well. I also put some plants below it. Before long we'll be having BLT's all the time!

I couldn't resist the beautiful coleus and bugleweed. The colors really add to the yard. I've not had either type of plant before so I hope I can take care of them right. Of course, the flowers were on sale as well so Khloe and I picked out a few to decorate the front yard. Aren't they great? Khloe picked out and planted the really bright ones - they're so cheerful.

I recently ordered a bottle of perfume oil from Happy Housewife. It's called Seance and I love it! (Miss Violet, if you have any extra that you need to get rid of, feel free to send them here!) It's a bit sweet but also musky and rich - I don't really know how to describe it. I was kind of surprised at how big the bottle is - it's a really good deal. Violet is really generous with her stuff. I love handmade perfume oils anyway. Etsy is so great for scents. I got a solid perfume called Comfy Sweater from Poppy Lane that's wonderful and delicious. Seriously, if you're looking for a new fragrance you should really check out etsy or Violet. Besides a great new fragrance you usually get a sample or two of other selections.

Speaking of free samples, what do you think of me giving a sample skein or two with each yarn purchase? I really need to find a way to thank my customers besides just a note. Any ideas?

Well, I'm off to life now. See you later!

Tweets and Stuff

2009-05-01T12:35:00.002-05:00

Gosh, my head is full of stuff to talk about - let's see if it will all get out properly.

I'm loving Twitter. Seriously. It's so much cooler than furoms - it's much more conversational. I feel like I'm actually getting to know people who I've known online for awhile. I'm following Stevie Nicks, too, which is so cool except that she rarely tweets. Maybe I should just message her or something - not in a stalkery way, though - don't want to get blocked!

Speaking of Stevie, I just finished a pair of soks called Rhiannon. They're designed by Renee Leverington and are probably the fastest socks ever, and not just because they're anlkets, either. It's a beautiful pattern. I must make some in other colors now. The yarn I used is from the Raven series from Blue Moon - so pretty but my fingers were black from working with it. I had no problems using black on small needles, either, which pleased me since I love black and plan to make more with it. Why Rhiannon, you ask? Why, that's girl child's middle name! I love Fleetwood Mac, especially Stevie's songs. Of course, Khloe likes "Sara" better. Go figure! (I can't get the picture to move down here where it belongs, darn it!)

Today is the first day of the summer House Cup. I'm without a project right now waiting for the assignments to get posted and it's driving me crazy - I actually mopped the kitchen floor with all of the excited energy I have. I'm a mentor to the new kids, too, which means mainly that I help with any questions they may have and offer encouragement if they need it.

Last night I met with the local knitting group - it's in the school admin building! Most of the ladies work for the district. I had a great time - they're nice and fun and all knit, of course, and I am counting days until the next get-together. Yay!

Those of you who have known me for a few years know that I have a thing for shoes. Well, it's hitting me rather hard right now. I'm seriously aching for new sexy summery shoes and lots of them. (no, mom,I haven't gone crazy shopping, don't worry) However, while browsing the internet this morning I found a site called Good Goth. Oh. My. Goodness! (I'll link it on the side) I just looked at the sale section and couldn't breathe. If any of you want to, oh, get me a Mother's Day gift or a May Day gift or just a little something because you love me - I wear an 8 and would like about any of the heels they have - Mary Janes, boots, whatever. Not kidding. Actually, if someone has some hot shoes they don't want anymore let me know. I'd like some granny boots, too, if anyone sees any.

Okay, enough pleaing for gifts. The door to my brain closed - maybe I don't type fast enough for it or something. So happy May everyone! Enjoy the weekend and I'll be back soon!

Look at This!

2009-04-14T15:36:00.005-05:00

My Khloe made a beautiful flower barette for me. It's needle felted. She did a wonderful job on it - I feel like doing some Latin dancing around the living room. She's very creative and loves to make things as much as I do. Unfortunately she's about as, um, disorganized as I am , too, poor thing. I just wanted to show off my baby's talent. Let us know what you think!

Finally some Pictures!

2009-04-13T11:46:00.006-05:00

Well, here are some things I made while the computer was down. The bright pair of socks are the BFF pattern from Cookie A. They were so nice and relaxing to make. Jennie and I did it as a KAL - appropriate since the yarn was a Christmas present from her. The darker pair are the Coiled Cable and Rib pattern from Knitting up a Storm. I finally made a pair with cables down the heels - very cool. I gave this pair to mom as a gift for her aunt - I'll be knitting up another pair for myself, though. They're really pretty and the pattern kept my attention - no wantering bad thoughts! The top is the B'licious tank that was designed for me. I'm the first to make one - it's wonderful! The stitch pattern is stretchy and comfortable and it's kind of dressy but not too much. I really want to find a pretty skirt to wear with it - someday I may need to look nice, you know.

I had a bonding moment with my girl child last week. We went to get our ears pierced together. I now have three holes in my lobes and a right upper piercing. She's trying again - the last time her ears got sore and we had to take the earrings out. We got matching CZ's - we like sparkles. When I got my ears done the first time my dad took me and my sister and then got us diamonds for Christmas. Maybe now he can get his princess some diamonds for her little ears. I told her that she's too young to go to a tattoo place but I'd take her to get one when she's old enough - if she wants. Heh, maybe we can get matching ink!

I joined Twitter this morning. I'm feeling rather in touch right now. I'm actually not at all a computer-savvy kind of person. In fact, I can't even find the cheat sheet for adding a text link for the patterns I mentioned above. But now I can tweet! I think there's a link here somewhere - I clicked on the profile page to connect my twitter to here. Add me to your list and I'll add you to mine - we can all get to know each other better! I just checked - no link. I'll see what I can do. Meanwhile, I'm MsBobbilicious there.

Finally!

2009-04-06T20:39:00.002-05:00

Yes, it's been awhile since my last post. Our computer has been down and in the shop. I think the kids lets some cyber germs in and killed us. It took some time to get used to not having it, too - after a couple of days curled up in the corner having withdrawals I decided to get busy so I wouldn't think about it as much. My biggest accomplishment was finally hanging the pleated shades in the living room and getting rid of the eight-foot-long (not kidding!) metal miniblind that came with the house. Now I want to go through my fabrics and make some shimmery drapiness to add to the sides. Of course, I have to use what I have because the evil w-word store has gotten rid of the best part of the store - fabric and crafts. I've heard that a few bits of yarn are left but not enough reason to go there anymore.
My baby boy turned ten recently. He'll be in middle school next year. Time sure does fly, doesn't it? Soon he'll be all grown up - and will probably still get chocolate on his face when he eats a fudge round.
I've apparently lost all of my knitting mojo. Nothing has grabbed my attention, all attempts to start a project have crashed, even the new Cookie A book doesn't have me scrambling for needles. It's so sad. I've been slowly working on a cami but it's got boo-boos and will most likely get frogged for lack of desire. Maybe it's all of the rain and surprise snow we've had lately. Surely a good day of fun in the sun would be helpful.
That darn Jennie has struck again, too. She has introduced me to the world of zines. Zines are little handmade magazines that cover any subject matter and are usually very inexpensive. I got one in pdf already and another is in the mail. She's written one. It's really funny. I'm thinking about it - but I'm still on the fence about it. You know I love making things but even I must get sleep sometimes!
No pics again....oh, before I forget...Jen and I have been exploring the world of artist trading cards. Some of the kids in my life have drawn some up and they'll be in the etsy shop soon in case you want to check them out. I just need to scan them and add them to the store. I haven't finished any yet (I'm more of a collage/fiber type of person) but they'll be along shortly. Keep an eye out!

Marathon

2009-02-26T21:34:00.003-06:00

I've decided on my marathon details. I'm starting on March first. I've gathered a bag of yarns - Lisa Sousa, Socks that Rock, Wollmeise, My own hand dyed - that I want to work with. It totals 5.9 miles! I've also gathered a bunch of patterns that I want to make including a couple of little sweaters that I've been thinking about for awhile. There's no finish date. I want to see how long it takes me to do it. In my favor, though, is the House Cup. March is the third month for assignments this term. I'm sure that a couple of assignments will fit in with my plan. April is a Fawkes knitalong. I won't be knitting the Fawkes pattern for personal reasons but I have a few flamey patterns and one called Ashes which is kind of appropriate. Here's a peek at the stash I've chosen:

Pretty stuff, huh?

Have a great weekend, all!

Evil, Evil Lime and Violet

2009-02-22T18:41:00.002-06:00

I've been listening to old podcasts lately - mostly because if I appear to be absorbed in something then small people will leave me alone. I lately have listened to about, oh, twenty of the early Lime and Violet episodes - reliving all of the glory of Kiltboy, Hairy Moley Man, and the like. Well, they did it to me again. Just when I got to where I wasn't buying from etsy every time I checked out the show notes I listened to the enthusiasm of the then-new knitalong with the Lisa Sousa colorway. Out of curiosity I looked at the blog for it and fell in love with the yarn. You guessed it - a skein is coming my way. To be fair, though, my resistance is weak at Lisa's site anyway. She's so great with colors. Seriously - check it out. (Channeling Ms V!) The other great idea I've copied from them is the Sock Yarn Marathon. See, I have alot of sock yarn - I like to make socks and small things. I think it would be fun to see how much I could knit up in a designated amount of time. I'll be getting it all organized this week and deciding on a date. Anyone want to join me?
I have several things to show off - no pictures tonight, though. I have some mom stuff to do. You'll be seeing things soon, though, I promise.
Does anyone know how to spin a batt with a drop spindle? I have a gorgeous batt and am afraid to mess it up. Although, I suppose, it's all up to the artist, just like any fiber medium and whatever I do to it - spin, felt, glue, etc - is all personal choice and therefore not messed up. Yes, I referred to myself as an artist because I can. (I have an attitude right now - it's been a kid weekend and I can't discuss the details.)
I found out this past week that I walk unusually. Apparently I don't use my toes like I'm supposed to and that's part of why my feet hurt. It's always something.

Copycatting

2009-01-28T14:40:00.002-06:00

I'm a huge fan of the Knitmore Girls podcast. I thought it was cute that Gigi will knit through all of the patterns in a book. I'm so easily distracted by all of the free new things that come up every day that sometimes I can't even concentrate on what I'm doing right now. However, I'm really considering the Gigi way. I've already discussed Inspired Cable Knits and will probably make alot of the projects in it. But then - have you seen the new French Girl Knits? Holy cow! Seriously, I want to make everything in it. If you're at all interested in romantic, elegant, bohemian chic then you must see this book. Actually, the patterns are so pretty that almost any style would work with it. It's also one of the books that lists the size of yarn used, not the exact yarn and makes you find what weight it is to sub it out. I much prefer the yarn listed as " x many yards of worsted weight, we used such-and-such". So go look at this book.
Do you listen to KnitTherapy? She mentions me in the latest episode. She has to have surgery again, so please pray for her!
No pictures again. Sorry. I don't have much to show right now but I'm working on some things and I saw a tripod at Dollar Tree that will alleviate the shaky hand problem.
Have a happy day!

Guess What!!

2009-01-27T13:54:00.002-06:00

I'm so excited and flattered right now. A sweet friend of mine, Gazebo Gal on ravelry, has written a pattern for me! It's called the B'licious tank. I'm itching to start it - but I can't find my size three needles, darn it. I can tell from reading the pattern that it's going to be a pretty top. I'll have to make myself something equally pretty to wear on my bottom half - a flowy skirt, maybe.
I've spent the past couple of nights spending quality time with the Doctor. David Tennant is so adorable and yummy. I know I'll miss him. I'm rewatching season four and it's so emotional for me - maybe it's the way Donna sees and reacts to the things that happen.
It's snowing again. I know it's still January but it's felt like a long winter.

A New Addiction

2009-01-18T13:26:00.002-06:00

I have a new favorite thing that I wanted to share. When the boy child was a baby - about 9 years ago - I met with a lady from India who sells clothing out of her home. I bought a pashmina - a large shawl made of Himalayan cashmere. I never wore it because I didn't want to mess it up. I wrapped up in it recently since it's been so fracking cold and now I don't want to live without it. I found a few on ebay that are smaller and a bit thinner - nice but not exactly what I want. Of course, the ebay ones are a ton cheaper. I'm on the lookout for a couple more great big ones - four feet by six feet at least. While I'm looking I'll evjoy what I have and hope that you all get to wrap up in one. Don't think that I'm not still loving my handmade ones, though - I have a big crocheted stole on my chair for chill emergencies. As long as it's super cold out I'll be wrapped in something snuggly and hope you are, too.

I've finished my first House Cup assignment of this term - a patronus against seasonal depresson. What do you think? It's the tubey I'd planned made out of Simply Soft. It's not perfect but I like it.

Random Thoughts

2009-01-09T08:48:00.002-06:00

I've had alot of little thoughts go through my brain recently and decided to share. Here goes!
First, I think it's so sad that kids only want money for gifts. Gifts are so special and personal and when you get The Gift from someone you love it makes your heart melt and your soul sing. I love when I find The Right Gift for someone - you know, the exact thing they would love that they would never think to look for on their own. If all you ever get is money and gift cards, how will you ever feel that warm, loving and loved feeling? Now, don't get me wrong, I like gift cards sometimes and I love the prepackaged gifty sets of bath stuff and candles and cologne, but a little something very personal is just so wonderful. Besides, the gifty stuff is much better at the clearance sale!
What is the big appeal of being bad? I've made it a lifestyle to be nice to people. Sometimes I slip a bit (crammed grocery stores, ex husband, etc) but I would rather have people think of me fondly rather than "that bitch". I mean, when I die I'd like for people to remember how I could have a conversation with a four-year-old that rambled like crazy or how I was an encouraging influence on someone. I'd hate to thing that anyone would say "man, I'm glad that rotten bitch is gone - the world is better off". Alot of the media seems to push the bad thing, though. It's hard to teach niceness to kids when all of the characters on television are sassy and mouthy and get into trouble - have you watched iCarly? Sam is bad. She's never adequately taken care of, either. Her badness overshadows Carly's niceness too much. (Spencer rocks. Just saying.) Let's all try to do nice things today - for family, friends, strangers, anyone. Let me know how you feel about the nice thing.
Jenny and I were talking the other day about the most popular knitting patterns on ravelry and it turns out that most of them are from knitty. Most of my projects are from knitty. It's absolutely possible to knit only from there and never get bored. The pattern archive covers any possible need or want - although I will most likely never make a womb. Amy Singer is such a genius. Tell me about your knitty thoughts! Share what you've made so we can admire your skills!
My parents and brother gave my new family a wii for Christmas this year. Eric is addicted. He spent all of last weekend playing Resident Evil 4, only stopping to sleep and get a beverage. It took him about 44 hours of game time to beat it. Now he's going through it again. I need to find him a new game - and find a new place to watch my shows!
I didn't make any resolutions. I have, however, given myself a fresh start by getting a pretty serious haircut. I'd had the same basic style for over 15 years. That's a really long time! Now it's shorter and curlier and alot more fun and fabulous. I've been wearing mascara, too. It's kind of fun to do housework with full makeup and a spritz of cologne - cheesy but fun. You should try it!
My Aunt Laurie has an etsy shop now - I'll be adding a link on the side. She sews beautiful bags and purses. My knitting bag is one that she made, in fact. She is an awesome sewer - she taught it for awhile and is so couture in quality. The bags are elegant and richly detailed. If you're in need please give her a look!
I think that's all for now. If any more thought come along I'll share them, too!
Have a great weekend!

The End of 2008

2008-12-31T11:27:00.002-06:00

It's the end of the year - and it's been quite a year - and a review of personal goals has revealed that I did not master the toe-up socks like I wanted. Oh, well, I've done plenty of other learning and mastering so I'm not stressing about it. I want to make 2009 my year of advancing further in my skills. By next year I want to have made a Central Park Hoodie (thanks to my Jenny for the pattern!), a richly cabled pullover, and one of the gorgeous lace stole patterns that I've collected. Tomorrow starts the new term of the House Cup. I've had so much fun with everyone in the group and can't wait to start a few new assignments.
Happy New Year to all of you!

A Little Yarn Pr0n for Y'all

2008-12-28T21:27:00.003-06:00

First is the gift I got from Jenny for Christmas - a skein from Lisa Souza and a skein of handdyed. I know the purple will be some sort of armwarmers but I haven't found the right pattern yet. The LS will most likely be a scarf or stole.

Next is some that I ordered early last month but just got on Friday. It's from Handgefaerbt (link at right) in Germany. The purpley skeins are called Minotaur - one is sock weight and the other is laceweight - and the blue is called Basilisk. She names all of her work after fantasy characters. You must check her out.

That's all for now. Happy New Year!

Under the Influence

2008-12-17T18:19:00.003-06:00

A couple of years ago, before I learned how to knit, I found a book that changed my crocheting. It's called Modular Crochet by Judith Copeland and was published in the late '70's or early '80's. She created a way of crocheting sweaters out of various rectangles based on gauge and body size. It blew me away. I've made four sweaters so far and have plans for a lot more - in fact, my favorite sweater is a modular one and I'd wear it every day if I could. I almost want to crochet nothing but the great sweaters in this book - big heavy ones for winter, lighter short-sleeved ones for summer, sleeveless for layering, etc. It's a great book. No, I don't own it - it costs a fortune to buy. I copied almost all of the pages and have them in a binder. The selling price right now is in the hundreds of dollars - a sign of a desired book.

The other day I got a new book that has also changed how I look at sweaters - Inspired Cabled Knits by Fiona Ellis. The projects in this book are amazing. Lately I've had a craving for cabled hoodies and one in my ravelry faves is from this book - I finally broke down and ordered it because it's so gorgeous. I can't even put it in words. She doesn't use the familiar cable patterns. She has created her own based on inspirations such as sand and lightning. My cabling experience is small. I've only done a couple of wristers and a headband so far. I'm going to practice some more, make some of the projects in Cables Untangled by Melissa Leapman (also a really great book with gorgeous sweaters and a couple of afghans that are so snuggly), and then begin the hoodie that started it: the Celtic Icon Hooded Zippered Cardigan.

I'm almost done with the few Christmas projects I have. Now I have to wait and see if they like them.

I have another scarf to show you. It's another lacy sock yarn one that was super easy and fast. Maybe you recognize the yarn - it's the first skein that I ever dyed with acid dyes, shown right here about a year ago. It knit up really pretty. The fiber is a wool-silk blend and is incredibly soft. I'm not sure why I'm so attracted to long lacy scarves right now - I had never made a scarf before.

I think that's all I wanted to tell you about. I blog alot in my head but when I sit down at the keyboard my mind kind of fizzles out. To the local people - be careful! We're supposed to get a big ie storm and I want everyone to be safe.

Thant reminds me: Anna of Knitting up a Storm is having a rough time right now. Please remember her in your prayers and good thoughts. Thanks!

Is There Some Discrimination in Knitting?

2008-12-06T13:18:00.002-06:00

I listen to alot of podcasts - probably close to twenty. I hear everyone review the new Interweave Knitting, Vogue Knitting, Twist Collective, Knotions, and Knitty. Doesn't anyone else read Knit n Style or Creative Knitting? Is it because they're at the grocery store and not the LYS? Both of the new issues have pretty, wearable sweaters, kids items, and accessories. Don't get me wrong - I did buy two patterns from Twist and most of the stuff I've knit have come from Knitty, but I've learned alot from the forgotten mags. Does anyone else get them? Let me know what you think!
What's up with me lately? I'm trying to get the gifts done. I've made a few ornaments for Anna - they go pretty quick. I've signed up for an ornament exchange in the Harry Potter House Cup group but don't know for sure what I'm going to make yet. I've also made a couple of easy lace scarves for myself - decorative, not warm and functional.
Yes, that means that my hands are better. I still hurt alot, and it's moving to all of my arms, but I've been able to knit a bit. My feet, however, have taken over where my hands left off. Still no diagnosis but I'm still trying to be positive.
No pictures this time, sorry folks. I don't want recipients to see what they're getting!

Attention!

2008-12-01T19:21:00.002-06:00

Everyone, please go to the Knitting up a Storm blog right now. She has a very special charity knitting project. If you're a teary type, don't read the first few paragraphs - it will make your heart ache. She wants us to knit ornaments. Go check it out. Let's see who of us can make the most.

The Votes are In!

2008-11-21T19:33:00.002-06:00

Thank you for helping me choose a sweater pattern! The winner is Tubey. I've looked at it on ravelry and it seems to be a quick knit that looks good on everyone. Originally I was going to make it in Ravenclaw colors but I found some great red-pink in my stash that will be perfect. Of course, I need to finish the gifts first - just a little more.

Jenny and I had a conversation recently about sock yarn - what a shame it is to make beautiful socks that no one will see. From now on my gorgeous yarns will be items for my upper body. I just finished a nice pink lacy scarf out of Artyarns Ultramerino. I love it. Now I'm making a lace scarf out of wool-silk that I handpainted. It's so soft and squishy and wonderful. Yes, I'm on a lace scarf kick right now. Got any patterns to share? I'm looking for easy ones that I can memorize quickly and relax to without messing up if I watch TV or talk to someone.

Not much else is going on. Although I need to ask a favor. Next month is my birthday, and it's a big one - the kind they make black plates for. I would love some encouragement and comforting words. I've never felt my age until recently - this pain problem makes me feel so old and decrepid. If you can boost my spirits I will love you forever.

I Need A Favor, Please!

2008-11-10T20:05:00.004-06:00

For those of you on ravelry, please go to my queue and help me decide which sweater to start! I like them all so much that I can't make any sort of decision.
What have I been up to lately? Well, there's a bazaar coming up and I'm trying to get some things made up for it, but that's about all. Nothing big, nothing new, just me and my television.

Electronically Challenged

2008-11-06T09:49:00.002-06:00

So I was going to do a video blog post today in honor of craftborg. However, my video camera is full from the children and the battery is dead. I took the memory card out to download everything and it's not working. Bleh. So I plugged it onto the charger and decided to take a picture of my latest finished piece. Well, for some reason it won't download either. Grrr. I don't understand. If it's yarny I can figure it out. If there's any wiring at all it falls apart under my fingers. Where's my Jenny when I need her?

Spinning Like Crazy

2008-10-27T18:56:00.005-05:00

I finished spinning the camel down and can't wait to get some more. It's plied with copper thread so it shimmers and sparkles and it made me sad that all of it had to go to the knitters for the quiddich team. I guess I'll have to make more!

Since I'm not able to knit right now I dug through the fiber stash and spun up this great stuff - purple, orchid, and brown wool. There isn't much, but I'm thinking it will be great as trim for a purple and brown striped sweater. I don't usually like brown but I really like it paired with purple - but of course everything looks better with purple!

Right now I'm working on a braid of roving from squoosh on etsy. The colorway is Berry Tart, and it's full of berry goodness - lots of pinks and plums. I want to ply this with some thread, too, but use several colors instead of just one. I want some sparkle on this one, too. I spun it all on Jenny's kick spindle which I really enjoyed.

With all of the practice I've had lately, I'm starting to get pretty good at spinning. I really like it - it's very calming and engaging yet mindless at the same time.

Check out the score I got at Goodwill last week! Six dollars a pair for these great boots. Unfortunately, my feet are getting as achy and painful as my hands, so I won't be wearing them for awhile. They'll look great when I can wear them, though.

The other day I got in the mood to look at knit skirt patterns. In my quest I discovered so many great patterns in my stack of magazines - loads of great sweaters that I had forgotten about. I'll be marking all of the ones that I have stash for so I can (hopefully) get working on them soon. I've told myself to start using all of my magazines and books instead of letting them gather dust. We'll see how long that lasts.

Have You Seen These?

2008-10-14T14:59:00.003-05:00

This is one of the new patterns from Lion Brand yarn to go with their new sock yarn. I love these so much but that much knitting in fingering weight would take ages. BUT - they have a version in worsted weight! I am dying to cast on. The problem? It's written as flat knitting - a long, thin strip of stockinette. I need to convert it to round so it will go faster. Won't this be cute under a skirt this winter? The bottom is like stirrup pants, so pretty socks would show. They also wouldn't be too bulky under boots, which would look great. Does anyone else plan to make these?

Ideas - My Head Could Burst!

2008-10-11T13:11:00.002-05:00

I usually don't go for long without lots of thoughts of projects. Lately, though, it's been crazy. Since I'm home and have both stash and access to millions of patterns I've decided to make some gifts this year. The first gift also goes along with two knitalongs - the Harry Potter House Cup and the Selfish Knitters for October - make something for your hands. I've decided to make a pair of Dashing armwarmers for my brother. I think he'll like them - he spends alot of time outside doing his social things and he's a snappy sort of dresser. Of course, they will be made out of Simply Soft since I now have several skeins grabbed off of the clearance rack, but a washable yarn will probably work better since I'm sure his hands get alot of use - paintballing, biking, etc. I want to make him a cowl, too, out of the deliciously soft superwash merino that I got at the fiber fair last summer. Wool will keep his head warmer, don't you think? Mother loves the green Wollmeise from the club shipment, so she'll be getting a pair of socks, but I haven't really settled on a pattern - maybe Fawkes since I enjoyed it so much. I'd like to make her a pretty, lacy cowl, too, but I'm not sure. Mom, would you like something like that? (she's a reader!)
More ideas came in the new issue of Knit 'n Style. There's a really good article on steeking. I really want to try it now. Yes, the thought of cutting my knitting is a bit unnerving, but it's also kind of adrenalizing in a way. I'll be studying my Elizabeth Zimmermann for cardigan ideas - maybe something cabled since I've conquered that knitting milestone. Besides, can a person really have too many cardis?
I got a surprise issue of Verena knitting in the mail the other day. Oh my gosh. It's full of wonderful things. I want to make almost every pattern in it - seriously. I will be starting one rather soon, one I decide on the yarn for it. My issue is the summer one, but I want to make a sleeveless top that will work over a long sleeved shirt, too, so it will work for the upcoming coldness. For real, though, check out this magazine. It's fabulous.
I haven't gotten alot of help in the pain area lately - changing meds just has been messing me up. I can't knit or crochet nearly as much as I want to - and do in my head - so mostly I sit around frustrated. However, I just finished watching season one of Torchwood. Wow. I got the set free with my Dr Who, and I'm so glad. Torchwood is a great show. I want to find season two now and then find when it's on tv so I can keep up with it. The characters are so deep and interesting. I was surprised with the language - it's on BBC so the swearing is more like HBO - and there was some backside male nudity. It's not for kids but it's good and I recommend it to any sci-fi lovers.
What else? I suppose that's all for now - it's a no-kid weekend, so there's relaxing to be done! After the housework, of course.

Update Required!

2008-09-26T17:04:00.002-05:00

I'm on a new medication that keeps me from sleeping, and last night as I lay awake I decided that I need a new look. See, I've been in yoga pants and tees since May. A new look is so needed. My new hair is probably part of the spark - I'm partly refreshed but not completely. I miss my boots. Eric bought me the greatest cowboy boots a few years ago - black with chains. I love love love them. They also happen to look great with my big black leather jacket that mom doesn't like because I look like a bad girl or something. Here's what I'm thinking, though: boots, fishnets, a sassy retro-esque skirt (sorta fiftiesish) and a slightly off-shoulder top. Something easy but stylish and unique. I suppose I need to start sewing - new clothes don't grow on trees, and in my small town chances are good that I won't find what I want. Any suggestions, ideas, offers for seamstress work? I'm all ears!

Ravenclaw-ness

2008-09-16T13:41:00.009-05:00

It's been awhile - lots of personal problems have kept me less than conversational lately. I do have some things to share, though.

The Harry Potter Knitting and Crochet House Cup has been alot of fun so far. I have been recruited as beater for the quiddich team. That means that I was asked to spin some yarn for a whole-house project. I'm spinning some baby camel down - it will be trim on a hood for a little girl. The camel is so soft and fluffy - I had to chase my little girl out of it last night before she got too attached. I'm planning to ply it with some bronze thread to make it sparkle and be more Ravenclaw-y.

My first homework assignment was for astronomy class- make something star related. I crocheted a star lap blanket. I did have to modify my color choice, though, to black and gray because blue and gray just screams Dallas Cowboys and I really don't want that.

For transfiguration we were asked to pick a project that was something we hadn't done before. I already had a pattern that I wanted to do that had three new things - cables, stripes, and thumb gussets. I did go with the blue and gray for this, though, so it will match some other things that I have planned. I also learned how to make a reverse-image right/left pair, too. Yay,me!

Now, I'm sure you're wondering why there's a picture of me and not just the gloves. Well, some of you haven't seen me in awhile. Some of you have never seen me. It's not a great picture - pardon the kind of double chin effect - but here I am. Besides, I really like my new hair - shorter and darker than it's been in awhile.

For anyone interested, it's time to be signing up for fall sock clubs. I'm in the winter edition of the Knitting up a Storm yarn club. It's based on movies this time. First up is Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Woo hoo! I'm really excited to see what Anna does for the colorway. The summer book skeins are all so pretty and match really well. Of course I'll be making something in honor of my man Sirius.

Speaking of men, I found Josh Bernstein's new show last night on accident. I've missed him. He makes me want to rush out on adventures...well, I'll leave that there. heh.
Finally, here's a little something to show off:

Know what it is? Here's another clue:

It's the first shipment for the Wollmeise sock club! It came today. I'm so loving the purple skein - it's called Elder Bush. It's so rich and wonderful. I think it will be a scarf or shawl or top or something that can be seen. The green is called Box Wreath. I'm not into green but it's pretty. I hope I don't get in trouble for showing a picture - in ravelry we're supposed to use a spoiler picture in our stash. So don't tell on me!

That's all for now, I guess. I'll go back to reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows now - I'm almost at the really good part!

I forgot to show!

2008-08-26T15:48:00.002-05:00

Here's a skein I spun and am proud of. It's some roving from etsy called Razzmatazz. It's not even - there are some puffier spots - but it looks like real, store-bought yarn. I need to see how many yards there are and think about what to make with it. Suggestions??

Summer's Over

2008-08-23T08:52:00.004-05:00

For the kids, anyway. School started on Wednesday and it's back to the routine. They both like their classes - so far. We live close to the school so they've been riding their bikes. It's good to have a schedule again.
I have been watching Dr Who on dvd. I must say that Billie Piper is really beautiful. She's so different than Hollywood actresses with their skeleton bodies and perfect teeth. After watching both seasons of her I feel a bit less bad about the filling-out I've done lately and my overbite. I haven't watched much with the other actress - I'm just through Rose and her mom (LOVE her mom) going to the parallel world. We did watch the season finale this summer which will make much more sense now that I've seen so much leading up to it. I'm addicted. I admit it.
Summer of Socks is almost over. I've made four pair and have two second socks to make - but they won't get done in time. But -- I'll have six new pairs of squishy socks to wear this winter. Yay! I didn't win any of the drawings and I won't win any of the other prizes, but that's okay. I've improved my sock-making skills alot and am pretty darn good with the DPN's.
My next adventure is the Harry Potter House Cup. It's a knitting and crochet contest (for lack of a better word) based on the sorted houses and the classes at Hogwarts - potions, herbology, etc. I'm in Ravenclaw, of course, and am anxiously awaiting the start - on September first, when Hogwarts starts. The assignments should be fun, if the conversations are correct- blending yarns and fibers for potions, nature motifs for herbology, that sort of thing. It will be fun to see what everyone comes up with.
I've been checking out the Fiber Friday posts on craftster lately - it's where spinners show off their latest creations. Wow. People are making some amazing yarns, both for knitting with and for looking at. They're using so many different rovings, threads, beads, crocheted flowers - my mind is swirling with ideas. Right now I'm combining two different rovings in one draft - naughty me - but with three spindles and Jenny's kick spindle I can really go crazy. (Hint, hint - if you have any spinning supplies you don't need, I would be happy to give them a home!) I need a great project for the handspun skeins I've collected. I really want to put them to good use and show them off.
Well, no pictures this time, sorry. I've got yardwork to do and dyeing to do (you know you want to buy some!) and school fundraising to go through - already!- so I'm off for now - and maybe I'll spend some more time with the Doctor.

I Have a New Name

2008-08-15T19:31:00.001-05:00

Your Goth Name is:

Sullen Valhalla

What's" Your Goth Name?

I think it kind of fits! She even looks like me - in my mind, anyway.

I Won!

2008-08-11T21:25:00.004-05:00

I enter alot of contests and drawings. I'm usually laughing as I enter because I'm generally not lucky enough to win. Imagine my surprise when I found out that I had won a prize in the Knit Girls fundraiser this summer. I got my prize in the mail today. Know what it is? A skein of Wollmeise! Yep. It's pretty, too - I've seen some skeins online that are alot of icky color combos, but this one is nice, even with the gold color. Next to the skein is the second part of my prize - a set of stitchmarkers from Celticfrog.They will be lovely for a clapotis or small-gauge sweater. I'm very tickled about winning. Yay!

I finished my Fawkes socks. I love the feel of the tencel blend yarn. It's so soft and smooth. If I had the gumption I'd make a cardi or pullover out of it - it would be so yummy to wear as a top. Heh, it would feel nice as yoga pants, too. Anyway, that makes four pair of socks this summer. Not bad. Of course, I haven't done much else, knit-wise. I'm trying for one more pair - the Dracula socks. The Summer of Socks KAL ends September first (I think), so I have a bit of time to finish them.

I'm itching to read the Harry Potter books again. Why? Well, the new movie comes out this fall and I've entered a KAL/CAL that starts as the sock one ends. It's based on Hogwarts classes and should be alot of fun. I hope they put me in Ravenclaw, but I've told the organizers that they could place me wherever needed to balance things out. I'll be jumping from footwear to magic.

Eric is home on vacation this week - it's strangely nice to have him here when I wake up.

So What's the Deal???

2008-08-09T06:45:00.003-05:00

I put a counter on my blog. It's says that NO ONE has visited here in the past week. NO ONE. I'm still getting over the "I'm such a f*****g loser" thoughts on that - and it will take awhile. Mom and Jenny know that I struggle (alot) with depression. This does not help.

I guess I could consider this a Private site and just tell myself that only X number of people are invited - a select few.

The one thing that makes me feel alot better is a nice RAK. I got a gorgeous skein of handspun yesterday. It's lavender and yellow, slightly thick and thin texture, and alot of yards. I'll be looking at it for awhile to decide what it wants to be.

One last thought. I saw this beauty in my yard and had to take a picture.