SEEkING SAkNITY

A Busy End to the Old Year- and a Busy Start to the New

2012-01-05T13:40:00.005-05:00

What happens when I don't blog for a long time, and then I have a lot to write about? Monster Blog!!!

Thanksgiving
It's been a very busy holiday season at our place. We had a lovely Thanksgiving. Both Offspring were home, and I was off work. We did the whole Turkey thing-- and it was fantastic.
We took advantage of a lot of online shopping deals, and a little in-store shopping which included a family gift for The Husband-- a new TV.
It was quite the production. The Son came up with a plan to return home on Saturday to assist with the purchase and set-up. The Daughter and I went out on Black Friday night in search of a stand which we hid in her car under the doggie hammock. On Saturday, The Husband and The Daughter went to the VT/UVa game. The Son and I met at the "BuyMore" to select the set. We got a pretty good deal, schlepped the set home, and settled in to watch the game. (We won-- Go Hokies!!) As soon as it was over, we began to rather overwhelming task of taking the existing setup down-- and identifying the steps we'd need to take. The first was moving a very heavy dresser from the dining room where it held table linens and candles. The Son decided he could use it at his place, and I bid adieu to one of the first pieces of furniture that I purchased at a flea market nearly 4 decades ago. We removed the very heavy, very large TV set from the corner unit in the family room-- this involved clearing out all the VHS tapes that hadn't been viewed in Lord knows how long. The corner unit went into the dining room, and we began to put together the stand.
(The corner unit is great in the dining room. We have more room, and a great place to put the linens, trays and pewter serving pieces. It makes me happy!)
At this point, The Daughter texted to tell us they're on their way home. I replied "STALL!!!" She convinced her Dad that they needed to stop for dinner, which bought us a bit more time. We got everything constructed, connected and working before they arrived home, and gave him his early Christmas present. He likes it plenty.

Cookie Bake
My Gramma was an amazing cook and baker. She baked cookies all the time, and sent them to us at camp, at school, and she'd bring them to us whenever she came to our house. Many years ago, Sister #1 started to bake with her before Christmas, and eventually it became a family event. Since Gramma passed, we have made this an annual event, usually the weekend before Christmas. The Offspring and I travel to the Chicago to join as many of our family as can attend.
We start in the morning on Saturday at Sister #2's house (she has an amazing kitchen-- designed for cookie baking, if you ask me...), and bake from Gramma's recipes all day, making enough cookies for our 9 families and our Dad. We haven't quite figured out how many we actually make, but Sister #2's very long dining room table is pretty much covered with aluminum pans full of cookies.
This year, the cookie-baking festivities were kicked off on Friday night with a party for a niece and her fiance. Lots of fun to be together, and much pizza was eaten.

Christmas
The week leading up to Christmas was a lot of fun, because I finally got some decorating done, the monster TV was picked up by a charity, the tree went up, and it really felt like Christmas. I knew that both Offspring (and The Daughter's dog) would be coming home. I finished knitting a Christmas stocking for one of The Daughter's friend's new spouse-- and got the over-stitching patterns done as well. The grocery shopping was finished, and I wrapped all the gifts. I was ready for whatever course the weekend would take.
I was scheduled to work the entire Christmas holiday. I'm not upset about working over holidays-- it's part of being a nurse, since of course, patients don't stop being sick just because it's Christmas. But we're sometimes able to be off on one of the days if we want to, because we "staff up" to make sure we have enough to take care of any big changes in census.
The Daughter and I came up with contingencies-- how we'd handle Christmas depending on if I'd be off on any of the days, or if we'd have dinner and celebrate after I got home.
I was very fortunate to have Christmas Eve off, and it was terrific. We were all together, and enjoyed a very nice Christmas. Spending time together was the best. We had our yummy beef dinner and exchanged gifts. I received a Kindle Touch, which has already proved itself to be a terrific device.
I worked on Christmas- spending time with my co-workers and our patients' families.

New Year's
My family gets together on New Year's eve. It started a long time ago, when my parents realized that my brothers and sisters were spending all day on Christmas, traveling throughout the greater Midwest in order to see both sides of their families. My very wise mother told everyone to spend Christmas wherever they needed to be- with their own new families, or in-laws, and to try to be with them on New Year's Eve. As a result, it turns into another family get-together that we look forward to and cherish.
This year, December 30 also served as a destination, as my niece (one of the 26 collective nieces and nephews) was married. It was a lovely ceremony, a terrific reception, and story fodder for years to come.
Since we were all up quite late on the 30th, we decided to celebrate "East Coast" New Year, allowing us to wrap things up a bit earlier. It was another wonderful get-together, and a great beginning to 2012.

Resolutions?
Maybe-- probably the same as before-- only more general. Be healthy, do my best, and knit more. We'll review progress in about 12 months.

Commitments and Over-Commitments

2011-11-10T23:28:00.002-05:00

This seems to happen to me every Fall. It's my favorite season, since the weather becomes tolerable and the colors are breathtaking. And it's time for football-- our beloved Hokies, our friends in Blacksburg, and time away from the DC craziness spent at our little apartment.

But it's also a time when a lot of deadlines hit me. Compounded with the time away, I end up with an almost overwhelming amount of "work stuff" that all seems to come due at the same time. I'm just past the worst of it, just in time for the beginning of the holiday season.

I attended a conference today focusing on Ethics and caring. It's what I do-- caring for people, and sometimes I don't realize the toll it takes. It's wearying.

So, a few more days, and then a bit of time off with family for recharging my batteries.

And getting back to some serious knitting-- for my saKnity.

Dear Madelinetosh--

2011-02-16T22:55:00.002-05:00

I love your yarn. I love the springiness and stitch definition of Vintage. I love your colors.

I love the way that cables and twisted stitches pop and come to life.

But I swear to God that if I ever get a skein that is as messed up as the one I tried to wind last weekend, I will never buy another. There is just no excuse.

Hey-- I'm Still Here!

2011-01-20T10:15:00.005-05:00

Alive and kicking.

And why haven't I been blogging? I have no idea, except that I haven't been feeling inspired. Also, since my cute little new camera left my life, it's more trouble to include pictures, and generally, I like to include pictures. We have pictures today, but it's a bit more complicated-- card reader to a desktop, download pics, email to myself and process through the laptop. Yes-- there are cords and card-readers I could use-- but I don't have them, so...

I have actually been rather occupied with a number of things.

Knitting: I had this really neat idea-- make hats for my sisters and sisters-in-law for Christmas. It started out all right, but I needed to make 7 and only got 4 done in time. Part of the reason was that I got involved in a neat hat for The Daughter. She has 2 degrees from Virginia Tech-- one in Psychology, and the other in Biochemistry. We found this pattern in Interweave (The Proverbial Cap by Meg Swanson), and she fell in love with it. It is done with twisted stitches-- a new technique for me. The Daughter noticed that if we changed the bars in the helices to horizontal vice vertical, they would appear to be base pairs, and the helices would look like DNA.

So I knit it, using Madelintosh Vintage. The actual colorway is a bit darker than in the picture-- maroon with dark red highlights. I am going to do a single crochet around the bottom and then block it-- which it so clearly needs. I'm going to do a scarf to match, featuring the "DNA" double helix.

I also embarked on a new-to-me health program. Making progress. Hopefully more to follow.

Beautiful Autumn

2010-10-25T11:07:00.002-04:00

First of all.... no pictures. Not that I didn't take lots of them on our cruise to New England and Canada--- and to/from Blacksburg for football games, and lots of beautiful foliage pics.

Someone decided that they needed my camera more than I did, and it was apparently stolen from my boss's office at work.

It's been an amazing time, though.

After a couple of losses, the Hokies are doing quite well--- rebounding and leading the conference division. We've had some wonderful weekends with The Offspring for game weekends, and it's been precious time together. We've spent time with dear friends at tailgate parties, and it's been good.

Work continues-- I love my work-- I just hate going to work. The traffic gets worse by the day, and my patience requires constant bolstering.

Our cruise took us to Newport, Rhode Island; Halifax and Sydney Nova Scotia, and Quebec. We had time to relax, and time to be together, and we met some terrific people. Since the pictures are gone, the memories will have to live in my heart.

I've been knitting again. I'm doing hats now, which seems to be working well, because I can get them finished in a reasonable amount of time, and I'm hoping to give them to sisters and sisters-in-law this Christmas.

Today and tomorrow will be focused on shopping for and preparing baked goods for our bake sale at work.

And I might just get myself a new camera.

Over The Top-- Or Hidden Beneath It

2010-09-09T00:36:00.003-04:00

I love to knit.....

but REALLY?????????

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

2010-08-27T22:05:00.004-04:00

I go to the ballpark in Washington DC once a year, except for this year when I went twice this week. My place of work has an annual outing for nurses who are certified in their specialties, and we look forward to it. It was scheduled for Thursday (last night)

The Husband was a bit jealous, so he decided we should go see the Cubs playing against the Nationals on Tuesday night. Being a Chicagoan, I like ALL Chicago teams-- and while I might have a bit of a preference for the American League--- really-- it's baseball!!!

The Cubs won, and it was a great game.

And.... I had my annual Ben's Chili Bowl Half Smoke all the Way. If you've never had one, all I can say is... you really, really must.Last night the Nationals played the Cardinals. A good game. A really good game.

I saw a guy who was a co-worker and friend 20 years ago. We had a chance to catch up-- it was great to see him. When we worked together last, my kids were little bitty, and now they're both graduated from college!

I had a SECOND annual Ben's Chili Bowl Half Smoke all the Way. (Seriously back to South Beach now-- no further discussion!!!) And the game kept getting better. It was tied in the bottom of the 9th when we left, as many in our group had to work today. When I got home- an hour and a half later-- I turned on the TV. The game was STILL tied, and STILL going on. So in the 13th inning, the Nats got a run, and won. And I could finally go to sleep.

It's not too hot, so I've been able to spend some time outside--- a welcome break from an unbelievably busy, busy time at work.

An Era Ends

2010-08-15T17:49:00.006-04:00

Stef and Katie check out patterns
Holly
Elspeth

I'm still trying to catch my breath, and imagine my world without Knit Happens.

The knit shop I go to (soon "went to") is closing after 6 years. The Manager has had too many hassles with the landlord, and she decided to take a new turn in life. We've all been through a lot together--- weddings, deaths, travels, kids in college, job changes, (weight changes).... these are my away-from-work adult friends. KH (Knit Happens) is where we met every week to catch up, be creative, check on each others' progress, and breathe. It was the "safe place". So now, we need to figure out a new plan. There is another lovely shop in town, but this was "my" LYS.

In other news, progress is being made on February Lady Redux. (See Elspeth above, modeling hers in grey.) I was able to get about 45 minutes of knitting in during a traffic hang-up on my way back from Blacksburg on Thursday. I was hurrying to meet up with "The Irregulars" for KH's Irish Wake, and was making great progress when all of a sudden, traffic just stopped.

So I sat on I-66, amongst some 20 miles of cars, and knit.

Back to the Needles

2010-08-08T20:41:00.004-04:00

<-- That's not me; it's a picture of the designer wearing the sweater. Ok-- here's the story.... I started the February Lady Sweater quite awhile ago. I'm knitting it in Water Lily in a wonderful variegated muted orange color. Made pretty good progress. Needed to put it down for a bit. Picked it up again. Started doing the shoulder increases on the wrong side. Looked terrible (it was quite apparent to me-- would have been even from the back of a galloping horse.) Put it back down. For a long time.

So when I was getting ready to head south to the mountains for the weekend, I unearthed it, thinking I could fix it. I picked up some little dpn's at Mosaic in Blacksburg, and ripped the offending "make-one's" down to where I messed up. I figured I could just knit them back up, but the beautiful pattern made by the twists in the "make-one's" would not reappear. So I frogged the whole 3 skeins' worth.

I started over, and I think it's going to be ok. I cast on for a smaller size to make the neck ride up a bit higher, and calculated that with 8 increased stitches every row, it'll only need another 2 rows to catch up with the pattern.

I finished 12 repeats of the neverending (well, truth be told, it will only be 31 repeats) garter stitch. I'm happy with the second buttonhole. The first one is a bit sketchy looking, but I'll crochet or stitch around it so it looks prettier.

So-- the question is whether this will actually achieve FO status. I'm back on the needles, and hope I'm back in the saddle.

(stay tuned---there WILL be pictures)

Back to Reality

2010-07-27T11:01:00.009-04:00

Just got back from an incredible family get-together in Minnesota. It was bittersweet-- a few tough moments. We raised a glass of Dalwhinnie in honor of Mom-- and as she would wish, proceeded to have a fantastic week.
In Lighter News...

One of the big summer events in Nisswa, Minnesota is the weekly Turtle Races held on Wednesdays. This week's had over 600 entrants. Our group of 40+ attended in force-- with matching t-shirts designed by a family member. It was a sight to behold. (we pretty much took over a couple of the heats).

So here's the deal. You pay $4 to enter, and you get a button with a number on it. Groups are called- 20 at a time- and you choose a turtle to use for the race. The rules are that your feet need to be inside the yellow line. The first turtle that crosses the outside yellow line wins. (you can't see it in the picture). 2 of my brothers and one of my nieces won the "Resort" challenges. They competed, and Brother #2 won the competition:
Nice medal, isn't it?

I Golfed

Yes, I did.

Sunsets
I couldn't decide which I liked the best, so you get several:

More Celebration!

2010-05-23T12:58:00.001-04:00

The Daughter graduated last weekend with her second Bachelor's.

Well Done, Bebe'.

I am so proud of The Offspring.

Celebrate!

2010-05-07T00:20:00.003-04:00

An exciting weekend coming up.
I'm picking up my Dad at the airport tomorrow.
The Son is graduating from on Sunday.
Mothers' Day.
What a gift.
Well done, Buddy.

April 16th

2010-04-16T22:30:00.003-04:00

We Remember

“We are Virginia Tech. We are sad today and we will be sad for quite awhile. We are not moving on, we are embracing our mourning. We are Virginia Tech. We are strong enough to know when to cry and sad enough to know we must laugh again.

We are Virginia Tech. We do not understand this tragedy. We know we did not deserve it but neither does a child in Africa dying of AIDS, but neither do the invisible children walking the night to avoid being captured by a rogue army. Neither does the baby elephant watching his community be devastated for ivory; neither does the Appalachian infant in the killed in the middle of the night in his crib in the home his father built with his own hands being run over by a boulder because the land was destabilized. No one deserves a tragedy.

We are Virginia Tech. The Hokie Nation embraces our own with open heart and hands to those who offer their hearts and minds. We are strong and brave and innocent and unafraid. We are better than we think, not quite what we want to be. We are alive to the imagination and the possibility. We will continue to invent the future through our blood and tears, through all this sadness.

We are the Hokies. We will prevail, we will prevail.

We are Virginia Tech. “

Nikki Giovanni
April 2007

A Blast From Childhood

2010-04-14T22:46:00.001-04:00

Duck and Cover

Cilantro

2010-04-14T10:33:00.003-04:00

I know I'm not crazy or overly picky.

I also know that cilantro is the one food I cannot eat, even to be polite.

The New York Times agrees.

Commuting-Dog Wrangling-No Knitting-- And SPF70

2010-04-05T23:33:00.009-04:00

The Commuting Part

The Daughter is doing fine. This followed removal of an errant gall bladder two weeks ago. I did the nurse-mom thing, then came back to work the weekend, then back to Blacksburg for last week.

Following her surgery, The Daughter needed help with the usual things- like getting her meds, moving, eating (pudding, yogurt, angel food cake, chicken soup-- you get the picture.) These are things that a mother loves to do. I was busy, tired, and happy.

Then The Husband arrived for the weekend, and I returned to work,returning to The Daughter Monday night for an encore performance. It was good to see her getting better each day, and good to know that I was able to help.

Wrangling the Dog

I wrangled the dog who is really well behaved overall, but sometimes has LOTS of energy- a bit too much for someone to handle who had a bunch of holes poked in her belly.

(He's absoluteley the cutest thing on 4 legs....)

We'd talked for several months about getting him lined up with doggie day care, so that she could focus during finals, and have a place to board him for short periods for things such as the several upcoming weddings she's attending. We got him a bordatella booster, assembled the paperwork and scheduled him for his temperament test and orientation.

Said dog developed some "distress in the lower tract" following his Monday audition day at Flying Fur. He had a terrific time, and got a really good report card. Apparently he got SO excited about being with all the canine buddies (and probably ate a bunch of dirt-- his favorite snack) that I needed to let him out when I arrived back in Blacksburg at midnight, and then again at 2, 4 and 6 am.

We talked with Vet School friends, read articles online, and came up with this plan:
No food for awhile (but plenty of water)
Pepto-Bismol (1/2 ml per 10 lbs=10 ml every 6 hours for the @40 lb dog)
Pumpkin

The Pepto went in fine the first time. I remembered from my Girl Scout Animal First Aid badge that you put the syringe in the side of the beast's mouth, and hold the mouth closed while he swallows. The second time we had bright pink everywhere.

He loves pumpkin, which is, at this time of year as scarce as yellow Peep chicks in October. We had a couple of cans at home which I had tucked into my bag, so we actually had pumpkin. The Pepto went down fine when mixed in. (Aside-- we also made frozen sweet potato treats by mashing sweet potatoes into a mini muffin pan. He likes them plenty. They don't have Pepto)

Eventually he "normalized" so we sent him back on Friday (I had 2 lectures to write- not easy with canine assistance), followed by "Yappy Hour". What fun to watch all the dogs and their people playing together. He doesn't really have an opportunity for lots of running so daycare and playtime are terrific.

The Sunshine Part

I work with tiny, sick babies. Many get well enough to go home. Some do not. The March of Dimes does a lot of good work trying to prevent prematurity which is a primary cause of infant mortality and consequent conditions. One preemie I cared for was Katelyn Hall who was a March of Dimes ambassador in 2009. The Katelyn Hall Foundation and March of Dimes put on a charity golf tournament today at Lansdowne Resort. What an amazing place. I was fortunate to be able to volunteer. It was the most beautiful day I've seen for a really long time. (Usually on a beautiful day, I can be found doing a 12-hour shift at work).

My job was watching the 9th hole to verify any hole-in-one that would result in that golfer winning a car. No holes in one. However, there were many water shots, sand hazard landings, overshoots, and lots of good and respectable hits to the green. And one guy hit the car. It was pretty amazing.

I am melanin challenged. I was in the sun for 5 hours. I don't think I got burned...

Go SPF 70!

What's Next???

2010-03-25T21:03:00.005-04:00

Ok-- we made it through the death of my dear co-worker, and her funeral and memorial service.

We made it through some other difficult losses of family friends.

Hopefully no more of that for awhile.

So.... The Daughter got really ill last weekend, and had surgery on Tuesday night for gall bladder removal. She's recovering, and doing pretty well, under the circumstances.

I've been taking care of her, and of
Luke-- the cutest thing on 4 legs.

Work progresses on Children of Lir-- which would be the prettiest thing on 2 needles, but it's on 1 circular.

That is all.

Yummmy Silk!!!!

2010-03-03T14:05:00.005-05:00

I'm knitting the Children of Lir stole for The Daughter's friend. The Children of Lir is the Irish tale of some children who have been transformed into swans by their evil and jealous foster mother. Eventually they hear bells and are transformed back to human form, possibly by St. Patrick. The Daughter's Friend and The Intended are afficianados of all things Celtic, so this seemed appropriate. The pattern in the stole is intended to suggest the swans' wings.

I had some Jaeger Pure Silk DK in the wonderful Celadon color that I got on sale at Mosaic awhile back. I've been wanting to do something special with it, and this fits the bill. The Friend is being married in May, and I know she likes this color, because it's the color of the bridesmaids' dresses. I figure she might find a use for it later in her life.

It's a nice knit, and I love working with the silk. I'm using Denise size 11's. It sounds huge, but doing lace with DK requires some big honkin' needles. The needles are nice and pointy for doing lace. The only problem is that the cable is thick and draggy. Ordinarily I like Denises-- and the tips are working out great, but I'm spoiled by being able to knit a bit faster without pushing my work up all the time.

I looked at Addi's and a couple of other metal circs with thinner cables, but the tips of the needles are too blunt for k2togs and ddecs. I've ordered KnitPicks acrylic and nickel interchangeable tips (I have several of their cables) since they are relatively affordable and the tips look really pointy. We'll see how it goes. In the meantime, I'll deal with my draggy Denises.

Meanwhile, more sadness as one of my co-workers is in her final transition. Please say prayers for her and her family.

Yummmy Silk

2010-03-03T14:05:00.001-05:00

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures

2010-01-31T14:34:00.012-05:00

SNOW!!!!
I hung some big ornaments on the Crepe Myrtle before Christmas. Then I realized they could double as Valentine's Day decor, so left them up.

The Daughter's dog (oooh-- we LOVE him so!) contemplating snow. We got about 7" as far as I can tell. Looks like they got about a foot or more.

Knitting!
Picking up the needles again. This project is a lap blanket for the wonderful neighbor lady. The yarn is a bit darker and less blue than it appears here-- a superwash forest green dark heather. It's superwash, because I don't want to impose a lot of maintenance on her.It'll be as big as the yarn supply allows. This is one skein down, 2 more to go.

It's a reversible random cable-- easy knit, when I find the time to work on it.

<-Back

Plan for the rest of today-- watch basketball and knit.

WHAT????

2010-01-17T11:41:00.001-05:00

I'm a nurse.

And in my wildest imagination, I cannot fathom this.

Help for Haiti

2010-01-13T10:15:00.009-05:00

The earthquake in Haiti puts into perspective so many things that are better seen as minor annoyances in my very comfortable life. NBC. Traffic. Grumpy co-workers. Bills.

Please read PJ Doland's article in today's Unclutterer. He puts it all much better than I could, and has several links to reputable charities who are helping.

Knitters Without Borders is another link, sponsored by our favorite "Yarn Harlot".

Click here to get to the site where you can contribute to Doctors Without Borders.

I made a contribution. Please consider what you might be able to do.

A New Year

2010-01-10T09:16:00.005-05:00

Welcome, 2010.

The New Year is always a time of hope and good intentions. 2009 was a good year, but one with great sadness. So I look forward to rejuvenation and a new start. And I'm hoping that I'm able to realize my intentions through action.

The "W" Word
Weight has been an issue for my whole life-- in one direction or the other. Over the course of many decades I've dealt with it through nearly every program on the planet, and not dealing with it at all.

I've been obsessive, I've been successful. I've been on track and then totally thrown by major stressors.

I'm faced with some milestones this year, and the very real threat of serious health problems, which I must manage or there will be major consequences.

I've made resolutions in the past, only to break them and feel really badly.

So this year, I'm keeping it simple--

1. Be aware by recording my food.

I think that if I can simply focus on writing everything down, the rest will come. I'll try to focus on simpler foods. I know what is healthy. I know what portions are. I know fat/protein/carb combinations. The awareness of what's actually going in the bouche will hopefully eliminate mindless eating, and keep me conscious of the decisions I'm making.

2. Increase activity with a goal of 30 minutes of anything on days I'm not working a shift.

Unrealistic goals have squashed me in the past. I've never enjoyed exercising, but I have had fun with the wii fit, and I like walking my daughter's dog (who doesn't live with us, but visits from time to time.) We have a very expensive and underused treadmill downstairs. (the dog really enjoyed it on days that were too cold for him (and me) to go for longer walks). I'm also very good at making excuses. I leave for work at 6 am and don't get home til 8:30 or 9 p.m. But this is only a few days a week, and I do a lot of walking at work. So by allowing myself to "not exercise" on those days, I'm eliminating an excuse. I'm not calling it exercise anymore. It's "activity."

The "B" Word

While writing this, I was looking for a graphic for the section above-- maybe a scale or something-- and it hit me like a ton of bricks as I looked through clip art-- There were, to me, many negative symbols-- the scales you stand on with numbers-- a symbol that has always seemed like judgment to me. (I read an article that stated many overweight women avoid going to the doctor for care because they fear standing on the scale.) There were the food measuring scales that have always represented limitation and restriction as I weighed and measured my food for years and years.

And there were many, many images of balance scales. And then it hit me-- Balance. That's really what I'm seeking. Balance-- between my work life and my home life. Between what I need to do and what I want to do. Balance that helps me put perspective on the negatives and discern truth. Balance that improves health and spirit and life. Balance that will take the edges off sadness and center me again.

The K Word

Knitting has always been very important to me-- as creative outlet, as relaxation, as focus, as centering, as meditation. I learned from Mom, and remember her patience and the time we spent together as she taught me.

The last project I worked on was the Hanami stole I made for Mom for my parents' 60th anniversary. She sent me the most lovely thank you. I'd been unable to pick up the needles since.

While I was home over the holidays, I helped Dad by going through boxes of her yarn and found many ufo's. Mom did a lot of charity knitting, including little hats for the babies I work with, scarves to give away and for charity raffles, sweaters for the "Knit for Kids" project, baby blankets for shelters, and helmet liners for our troops abroad. I found all of these, many of which needed finishing. I also found an almost empty Denise case-- all the parts were in UFOs.

I put myself to the task of finishing what was started, seaming sweaters, weaving in ends, and getting things ready to go to the destinations she had intended. It was so comforting-- I felt like Mom was with me as my hands finished what she started. In addition to accumulating a full set of Denises by completing projects, I sorted out several (!) boxes of yarn. I kept 2 lots of yarn- some natural wool she got in Ireland, and a dark sage green wool/mohair from Italy. I don't know what these will become, but they will be special.

Knitting has also served as an important social connection-- my LYS friends are dear to me, and I have missed them.

These gifts-- the opportunity to work on her projects, the set of needles, and the yarn, are what I see as Mom's way of getting me back into the knitting part of balance in my life-- the part that I haven't had heart for during the last 6 months, And I will reconnect with my friends.

Sort of Stalled

2009-11-01T10:05:00.003-05:00

I've been a bit "on hold" since August.

When I left our family reunion in Minnesota, I knew that Mom's days were numbered. The realization almost paralyzed me-- how would I be able to function without being able to call her and ask for advice and information-- What are the ingredients for that salad? What kind of plants were those we saw in Hawaii? Who was that lady who used to play cards with Grandma? How can I handle this sticky situation? And how could I imagine my life without her presence? She taught me to knit, to cook, and the best example of how to raise my children.

This wonderful woman raised 9 children, inspired 26 grandchildren, and lived and loved at the side of our Dad for over 60 years. She courageously battled ovarian cancer for some 12 years, never complaining, aside from "being a bit tired."

We were so thrilled that she felt able, along with Dad, to be with us at The Daughter's graduation from Virginia Tech in May. She handled her increasing frailty as she handled everything else.. with grace and calmness. She flew her kite in front of Burruss Hall, and loved seeing Lane Stadium in person.

In August she told me that she would probably stop the chemo treatments. This round had been going on for about a year, and it didn't appear to be helping any more. She told me that she didn't want me to worry, because "worrying is a waste of time."

She died late on the last night of September. During her last days she was surrounded by family, with Dad at her side. We spent the days after her death going through thousands of pictures, remembering family times, travels, and celebrating her remarkable life.

I saw a "sunbow" the other evening, and the automatic words from my mouth were "Hi, Mom!"

Her spirit is with me and with my brothers, sisters, our spouses and children-- and of course, with Dad.

So I'm giving myself time to get it together.

And I hope to be back soon.

It's Been A Long Time....

2009-08-16T19:32:00.002-04:00

And a lot has happened.

In June I went to the Midwest for The Parents' 60th anniversary. It was an amazing time, and I was able to re-connect with a cousin I hadn't seen for many years. Her husband and daughters are delightful, and it is wonderful to have them in our lives.

July brought the annual family reunion. Words fail me-- the blessings we have, the happiness we experience when we're together, the time with my children, my parents, and my sibs, spouses and kids. The Husband wasn't able to be there-- otherwise it was perfect, although a bit chilly. I was able to spend time with my parents-- there's never enough time--- so we cherish the time we have.

I golfed. I really did. For the first time in my life. Can you even believe it? I hit a lot of grounders. Maybe I was born to putt. I seemed to do it for a couple hundred yards on every hole-- and my actual putting wasn't awful.

Now I'm here, commuting between the greater DC area and Winchester. The Son is moving into a townhouse, and we've spent the last couple of weeks getting him set up. I painted for a few days last week, and with time and large quantities of ibuprofen, my thighs are finally functioning without excruciating pain from climbing up and down the ladder. The knee is another story. I turned in a store, and twisted the silly thing. I hope I haven't done a lot of damage-- it doesn't hurt, but feels a bit "stuffy." We'll see.

Knitting? Not so much. I'm halfway through the sock I started in June. I've been preoccupied with some major things, and my focus isn't there. Maybe if I just do it, I'll be able to get back in the groove.

Just got home from seeing Julie and Julia--

I highly recommend it.

Good Morning

2009-05-31T05:44:00.001-04:00

Shall we build an Ark???

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T16:06:00.006-04:00

We remember and thank those who have made our lives, as we know them, possible. Their sacrifices eclipse our imaginations, and their stories dwarf our accomplishments. We pray for them, and we thank them.

We Have Hanami

Here she is, being modeled gracefully by the office chair last night...

...and being blocked today:

I started Hanami on March 11, and completed the knitting portion on May 14th. It was blocked today, and I'll add the finishing touches within the next couple of days. This is a gift for my Mom, who saw it already in its un-blocked and crumpled state. I gave her a shawl pin for Mother's Day, and couldn't resist showing her what I had in mind for it.The shawl pin is from nicholasandfelice's shop on Etsy. Hammered aluminum, very light and reasonably priced. If you click on the link, you will see the matching sterling earrings that I got for moi. (The Mother doesn't wear the pierced earrings, and they were just too wonderful to pass up.)

The Big Event

that brought us together was The Daughter's graduation from Virginia Tech.

I am such the proud Mama.

April 16th

2009-04-16T06:48:00.001-04:00

We Remember

Shall We Build an Ark???

2009-04-15T22:00:00.003-04:00

It's been raining for several days-- and Lord knows we need it.

The weather report says sun tomorrow.

It would be a good thing.

In other matters-- nearly halfway done with Hanami. Pictures soon (maybe tomorrow???)

Hanami rogress Report

2009-03-31T16:03:00.001-04:00

Into repeat 5 of the Basketwave chart on Hanami.

That is all.

Gonna Go To Class

2009-03-29T11:58:00.003-04:00

I really like taking classes-- Craft classes, management classes, nursing classes, it really doesn't matter too much. I like learning new stuff.

And I'm so excited that I'm going to be taking Olga's Hairpin Lace Class at Knit Happens a week from tomorrow.

This is the same Olga who designed the awesome Petal Halter that is all over Interweave (featured in the spring 2009 issue!!!) and is just simply brilliant. And we get to just sit and knit with such brilliance!

Anyway, she's going to teach me how to do the Hairpin Lace! (Not the Petal Halter seen above.) There are all sorts of things you can do with this. It makes long strips of open crocheted fabric that can be connected together to make shawls or afghans, or you can use a strip as an insert in a knitted object.

I tried to find a good picture to put in here, but I couldn't find one quickly that fit the bill. After class, there will be a picture.

I saw a demo of hairpin lace on a tv show, and thought it looked like fun, but I really couldn't make much sense of it when I tried to review it in my head.

I'm one of those tactile learners, I guess!!!

(and hey-- if you want to learn, there might still be room in the class!!!)

In Like A Lion...

2009-03-24T11:22:00.019-04:00

March has been an interesting month.

It started with (finally!) welcome, beautiful snow

followed a week later by popping crocuses

and as we approach the end of the month,

the forsythia are out

the daffodils are making an effort,

the back fence-neighbor's camelias have made an appearance

the apricot tree is in full bloom (too bad it doesn't make apricots)

and The Husband's newly planted azelias just might bloom this year.

Work started out crazy busy, then tapered off-- again. It seems to go in fits and starts. Either we're begged to work overtime, or we're asked if we want to be off so someone doesn't get mandatory cancellation.

I've made it to The Shop for several actual weeks in a row, which seems to be what I needed to get centered. I've completed a couple of projects, including
a helmet liner for the son of a friend who is in Afghanistan, and a pair of tiny socks for the new baby of a co-worker.

Baby socks-- they're a good thing. They're little, and fun to knit. As a small gift, they can be accompanied by some purchased onesies or something grander. I started out a few years ago doing sweaters, and it just got to be too, too much time and energy.

But the thing that is really centering me now is Hanami. I've jumped on the bandwagon, as many of the KH Irregulars are doing it as an informal KAL. After I "got into" the pattern, it's moving along, although it is going to take quite awhile.

The first section is a 32-row basketweave pattern that gets repeated 7 times!!! (I'm nearly through the third.) I'm doing it as a prayer shawl as a gift for a very dear one who continues to fight the fight.

I'm knitting with a laceweight silk/mohair blend on size 3's. Knowing what a fan I am of instant gratification, I see this as focus and continuity that will sustain me, but from which I may need to periodically get a break.

Maybe by some baby socks.

Getting It Together

2009-03-11T14:00:00.003-04:00

And I really am.

I've done some knitting-- which really centers me.

I've made progress on a lot of work projects.

I've been to Late Night at The Shop-- got to see some friends and share some chat.

I'm making progress on the house.

Life is good.

Life Gets Away...

2009-02-17T17:44:00.003-05:00

And all of a sudden it's February 2009, and I haven't blogged since December.

In that time, we went to the Orange Bowl-- a wonderful experience for our family and some close friends. The Hokies won, and that made it even better.

Both Offspring have marked another year, as has The Husband.

I've made some adjustments to my work schedule to allow me to do some extra things without feeling totally stressed.

I've worked many nights, resulting in some major fatigue.

I have not been to Knit Happens, and really miss my friends there.

I've done precious little knitting, and my hands are itching to get into a project. I just can't decide what to do.

And so it's time for some New Year's resolutions-- a couple of months late.

1. Focus on family
2. Focus on friends
3. Don't "over-" work
4. Take time to knit, read and relax instead of becoming exhausted.

We'll see how it goes....

Still Kickin'

2008-12-15T16:45:00.002-05:00

Life's been chock full of fun, craziness and busy busy work schedule. When I'm not working, I've pretty much been on the road.

Go Hokies
After beating UVA on Thanksgiving Saturday and clinching the ACC Coastal division, the Hokies headed to Tampa for the ACC Championship game in Tampa. It was a quick turnaround, but the men in Maroon and Orange played a great game against Boston College to win the ACC Championship.

It was a beautiful day, marred only by the Tampa cops roughing up some of our students after the game. Apparently they wanted everyone to clear the stadium. It would have been nice to make an announcement to that effect, because everyone was still celebrating. The students would have been glad to leave, but didn't want to be separated from their friends-- it's a big stadium, and you might never find them again. It was so unnecessary, and makes me wonder if I want to attend another event in Tampa. Maybe the cops were FSU fans.

So our New Years' will be spent in Ft Lauderdale/Miami for the Orange Bowl. It should be great fun. We'll watch The Daughter's final performance with the Marching Virginians, and hopefully (finally) a Bowl win for The Hokies.

A Weekend Together
The Husband and I did a little travelling on our own this last weekend. He had a meeting in Charlottesville (home to another state university). On the way down we decided to check out Williamsburg reservations, and were able to get reservations for The Christmas Feast at Shields' Tavern. So off to Williamsburg we went for Saturday night. They had Illumination of the Taverns, complete with fife and drums. Williamsburg is always lovely, but even more so at Christmas. It was a nice weekend.

Knitting-wise, I make progress on the Feb Lady sweater, but I'll have to rip out a big chunk because I reversed my increases after having put it down for awhile. Sigh.

I finished the Christmas Stocking for The Daughter's Friend's Relative. After 3 go-arounds, several rip-outs of the duplicate stitch designs etc, it got its bath last night and looks pretty darn decent. I did an I-cord for the hanger, and all that's left is to sew that on and pop it in the mail.

I'd lament not having more knitting accomplishments, but with night shifts and travelling and general life busy-ness, it's taken a back burner.

And now to try to get the home ready for Christmas, and off to my Chicagoland family this weekend to bake cookies.

I wonder how many miles I've logged in the past 6 weeks?

(no pictures-- the computer that holds the picture files has a busted power source-- should be back up in a couple of days.)

Groan....

2008-11-14T16:35:00.002-05:00

They were THAT close.

Been A Little Tied Up Lately

2008-11-13T20:09:00.004-05:00

So no good blogging going on. I'll have to get back with the program.

Work has been emotionally draining. I love my job, and I love caring for my patients and their families. Sometimes they are experiencing very serious challenges, and I can't even imagine their stress and pain.

So I do what I can

I'm privileged to be in the company of awesome professionals who work as a team to provide the absolutely best care for body, mind and spirit.

I know I made the right decision to be a nurse.

Meanwhile....

I completed the 3rd go-around on a Christmas stocking for a family member of The Daughter's friend. They gave me one of the stockings-- made for The Daughter's friend when she was a baby. They also gave me a pattern to follow.

The original appeared to be made in Red Heart. So I purchased Red Heart. Fun. I couldn't match the green color, which may have faded over the years.

I dutifully checked gauge against the pattern-- perfect on size 8's. (I was so very proud of myself-- actually checking gauge...) It was knit flat and then connected at the heel/instep. As I was almost done with the foot, it occurred to me to compare it to the original. It was huge. And the stitches were clearly larger. So I frogged the whole thing, and swatched again, matching the stitch size using 5's. (I was so very proud of myself for finding a needle that matched the stitch size...) I decided to knit in the round on 2 circs rather than knitting the leg flat. When I completely finished the stocking according to the pattern, it was still huge compared to the original.(!)

Now I realize that the reasonable and thoughtful knitter would have checked the size against the original at an earlier point in this evolution, but I was trying to minimize the amount of stuff I was schlepping. And who'd a thunk it didn't match the pattern???

Not me.

Original on the left, MONSTER SOCK in the middle, Acceptable 3rd try on the right

So finally, I did what I should have done in the first place. Forget about the pattern, count the stitches around the original stocking, and go from there.

And as I was packing everything up for a road trip, my eye fell on the Trader Joe's wine carrier. Six sections. Works great. I think I'll use it when I do FairIsle.

I'm basically done, except for blocking and duplicate stitching the pattern. Probably a task for the next road trip.

Meanwhile, I'm looking forward to getting back to the February Lady Sweater-- Beautiful yarn-- orange Water Lily. My fingers have been itching to make some progress. And there are a couple of other baby sweaters for co-workers on the needles as well as the obligatory socks.

So much to knit-- so little time.

Rats

2008-10-19T21:24:00.001-04:00

BC 28. VT 23.

Bad Blogger-- Bad Blogger-- That Would Be Me

2008-09-28T15:05:00.003-04:00

However, it doesn't mean that nothing's been going on in my life.

First things first:

What a game. I must say that I had "cautious-- very cautious" optimism as I positioned myself on the couch last night to watch the Hokie action. It started out well, and with a couple of breath-holding moments (such as Nebraska's punt return for a touchdown-- GASP) it was great. Both teams played well, and it was college football at its best. Next week is in Blacksburg-- can't wait.

Work has gone from "Let's figure out who has enough vacation time left to stay home today" to crazy busy. In addition, there are loads of extra little projects that just really pile up. One at a time-- One at a time.

Knitting-wise, it's pretty much been the handtowels. I'm nearly done with #3, and may call a halt to them for awhile after this one, although they are terrific traveling projects. I have a couple of things in mind with some terrific yarn that is sitting in baskets. Need a plan-- and enough time to get it all together. And need to carve out more time than I have watching football.

The leaves are starting to turn, it's getting cooler, It's Fall!!! My kind of time.

Hmmmm

2008-08-30T23:17:00.003-04:00

Plan for next week:
Don't pass the ball to the other team.
LET'S GO, HOKIES!!!!

Where to Start? Where to Start?

2008-08-20T00:10:00.019-04:00

What an unbelievable summer...

In mid-June our Hospital had a visit from the Magnet appraisers. Only 2% of hospitals in the US have achieved Magnet Status which is a big honkin' award earned by the Nurses for the hospital. I was privileged to be an escort for the lead appraiser, and it was a terrific opportunity and experience. (We found out on Thursday that we were officially redesignated. It's really huge.)

Two days later I left for Girl Scout Camp where I spent the next 5 weeks in a cabin in the mountainous woods of western Virginia. I lived in the health center. It was a lot of work, but a fantastic experience. I learned so much, and really enjoyed it.

My days began a bit before 7 am, administered meds before and after breakfast, and after lunch and dinner, and before bedtime. It's hard to describe what filled the days, because every day was different.

There was the day that 7 girls arrived simultaneously with multiple bee stings. There were numerous scrapes and bumps. There were quite a few "roving" stomachaches that were usually associated with homesickness. There were headaches and cramps, multiple mosquito bites, pulled muscles, rashes, splinters, throwing up (for some reason people always felt it necessary to state whether it was inside or outside the "biffies" (latrines)), and so forth.

I was rather proud of the fact that only 2 campers went to see the doctor during the 5 weeks I was there. (The staff record wasn't as good--I think we averaged 1-2 per week.)

The day usually lasted until 11 pm. There was a lot of paperwork-- not only documenting the daily occurrances, but preparing for the next week's campers.

I met a lot of fantastic people. My boss at camp was amazing, and it was really good to work with the staff who came from around the world.
Would I do it again? In a minute!!!!

I left camp 2 weeks before the season ended to join The Husband and The Offspring as well as The Parents, The Siblings and their Collective Offspring for a week on a lake in Minnesota. It was very strange going from my cabin in the mountains in the woods with Girl Scout rules to flying first class.The Annual Family Get-Together (aka FolkFest)
That's my parents, my brothers and sisters and our collective kids. There are a few missing from the picture, but they were present in our hearts. We have been able to get together for a week every summer for many years. What a blessed time. We are so very fortunate. The kids are all growing up, and I laughed so hard at their wit and antics. I don't get to see my nieces and nephews very often, and I am overwhelmed by their personalities, talents, and caring for each other. We always have a wonderful time together. I just love spending time with my brothers and sisters (and that includes the spouses.) I have learned so much from each of them, and as the years go by, I just love them all more and more.

While in the Northwoods of Minnesota, one needs some field trips. A large group of us went to Fargo, North Dakota. Seemed like a good idea. We and had lunch at a brewery that served samples of 6 different beers for $4:

saw the Roger Maris Museum (that's Roger and Mickey Mantle with President Truman):

and a reconstructed Viking ship and Viking Church:

My Parents, The Husband and I went to the headwaters of the Mississippi River--Lake Itasca-- and we walked across the Mississippi. (That's the south end of The Husband.) We took a side trip to Bemidji-- home of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. The Parents were there nearly 60 years ago-- on their honeymoon.
And that evening we returned to a sight that we shared every evening-- and never tired of:
Re-Entry

Has been a bit strange for a number of reasons:
*45 minute commute in the car vice 3 steps from my room to the treatment room.
*Non-stop political commercials vice no tv, radio or newspapers for 5 weeks.
*Having to decide what to wear vice putting on either khaki or olive scrub pants and a t-shirt.
*Air conditioning vice being warm or being chilly, compliments of Mother Nature.
*Blow-drying my hair vice being perfectly happy with frizz.
*Extra work tasks vice just gettin' through the day.

The good things about being back are that I get to be with The Husband (who, by the way, redid our living room-- painted walls, ceiling, and installed new crown molding), and I have a bit more free time-- as in time to knit. I only knit for about 45 minutes-TOTAL- during my summer.

Since I've been home and watching the Olympics, I've been working on linen hand towels. The Summer Camp Sweater is almost done (Lord-- when will I ever get anything done in time for its intended purpose?) I had a GREAT time on Friday because Knit Happens had their huge summer sale. I picked up a bunch of beautiful orange WaterColor merino wool that will become a sweater (February Lady Sweater, maybe?) , a boatload of grey linen that will become a short-sleeved top-- probably a bit of lace involved. I got yarn for some endpaper mitts. It was terrific to see Holly, Kelly and Steph. I saw them last just before leaving for camp, but missed them a bunch.

So as my life returns to whatever seems to be normal for me, and we approach the Fall, I have one overriding thought:

GO HOKIES!!!

Been Workin', Been Studyin', Been Knittin'--And Some Big News

2008-06-02T05:59:00.003-04:00

All of the above.

While our census has been low, I'm working on a couple of projects that keep me next to crazy.

This weekend I completed a Certificate Program in Event Planning at Virginia Tech. It was a 60-hour class over 4 Fridays/Saturdays in April and May. It was a lot of work, a lot of traveling, and a lot of fun. I met some amazing people, and got a really good view of what is involved in putting together meetings, conferences and other special events. And I got to spend some time with The Daughter- the most special of events to me.

Knitting-wise, my camera is angry with me, so no pics, but one linen hand towel is finished and another is about halfway there. My other active project is a top-down raglan roll-neck sweater in Arucania Nature Cotton in sage green (two very similar but different colors that look variegated as I'm alternating rows). Nice, mindless knitting. I'm calling it "My Summer Camp Sweater."

Yes, NurseLaura is going to Girl Scout Camp for about 5 weeks this summer. What excitement! I'll be living at camp in the mountains, and I'm really looking forward to it.

The ever-supportive Husband is being ever-supportive.

A really positive aspect is that I don't have to do the commute-- just walk up a hill.

So I Missed MSWF

2008-05-04T18:20:00.002-04:00

..But I got to go camping with about 150 Girl Scouts this weekend as the camp nurse. All went well, except for some coughing and stuffy noses thanks to massive amounts of pollen and dust in the air. The cause, of course, was beautiful weather for which we were immensely grateful.

I finished the first hand towel, and started a second. Hurrah!

The Tilted Duster is now done except for blocking and sewing on of arms.

So that means I can start another big project!!! And I still have gobs of yarn from last year's MSW and the big Knit Happens sale and a bunch of stuff I picked up last fall at Mosaic.

Speaking of KH, I was able to hit Late Night, and it was lovely evening. There are lots of socks, sweaters, tops, baby gifts and all sorts of other things being knit, I got to see lots of my knitting buds, and it was a truly relaxing time.

Sorry-- no pics today. My internet is REALLY slow, and my life is passing more quickly than the photo downloads allow.

Stuff happens.

Surprise! Remember Me?

2008-04-23T21:39:00.005-04:00

It's been busy, busy, busy at Casa SAkNITY.

Since it's not been busy, busy in my unit at work, I've been detailed to work on some projects for The Hospital, and it's kept me busy, busy.

There wasn't even much kNITting to blog about, as I went for quite awhile without even picking up needles to any great extent.

That problem has been remedied, and I've even hit 2 Late Nights. (Skipped tonight because The Husband and I went out for dinner-- that's another story-- coming up later in this blog.)

April 16th came and went with some tears, some prayers, some time with friends and some time for meditation. I met a friend for lunch in Old Town, and when I returned to my car, there was a packet of sunflower seeds with a VT sticker, an orange ribbon, and a request to plant the seeds in rememberance. I was touched. I found out that some people were handing them out in town, and I guess they saw the VT stickers on my car. What a thoughtful gesture on such a difficult day.

So-- kNITting progress--

Tilted duster-- sleeves are done-- Hurrah, Hurrah! Next step is picking up and knitting the collar. Shouldn't be too bad. I should make some headway on that tomorrow.

(Oh yes-- Tomorrow! I'm heading down to Blacksburg for the second of 4 2-day sessions to become a certified Event Planner! Y'know-- conferences, fund raisers, weddings, bar mitvahs-- they actually have classes for that. It's most interesting and lots of fun.)

The Linen project for a special person-- first one's almost done. About 2 inches left.

Dinner Tonight

The Husband said "Let's go out for dinner." Hey-- I'm a fan. Since he was driving and paying, I didn't bring my purse-- one less thing for me to forget.

Let me make it perfectly clear that I LOVE Famous Dave's. Great pork barbecue, yummy ribs, and Wilbur beans that are just superb.

But let me ask you a question-- seriously-- and don't even try to be nice--do these two really appear to be under 21?

OK-- I don't think so either. But they have their rules, so be it. No ID, No Beer. Sigh.

After quite a long time, we were able to order. Easy order-- onion strings and a combo for 2. 1/2 hour later-- onion strings arrive. Another 1/2 hour later- combo for 2 arrives. 45 minutes later-- done eating by 20 minutes or so, and hoping for the check. And hoping. And maybe a box or two to take home our rather large amount of leftovers. Waiter kept walking past us, averting eyes, being busy, busy. Finally, a check. Some boxes. A discussion with the manager. 2 hours have elapsed since we arrived. Without beer.

Good thing the food's so good.

What Can Be Better?

2008-03-06T08:52:00.004-05:00

The Daughter is home for a couple of days. I just love spending time with my beautiful, talented, clever, funny offspring. (The Son fits all of those, too- but substitute "swarthy" for "beautiful.") (I love spending time with him, too- but he's not on break til next week.)

We both have work to do, so amidst a couple of appointments (Lasik followup and a lock-trimming), we're going to hunker down in the family room with a bunch of DVD's, a pot of coffee, a case of Diet Coke, and our laptops. Amazing how much work I've done during my "week off." I don't mind, as long as I can be with The Daughter during the couple of days she's home.

I had a lunch meeting at a colleague's house yesterday (try the Panera turkey panini with spinach and artichoke---YUM!!!). We're working on a project and she has two beautiful 9-month old twin girls. Much easier to do things on her turf. It was a very productive meeting, and we're well on our way with the project.

I've also been working on some Powerpoint presentations, and I'm having a ball. I figured out how to put in music and use a lot of the effects to the max. There are a lot of important things to teach and communicate at the hospital right now, and it makes me feel good to put it into a form that people enjoy experiencing. This is very time consuming, but it's like play to me-- many hours put to good use.

I used to feel a bit guilty about the "play factor" associated with doing these projects, until My Sister#4 turned me on to Brat Factor. It's done by Pam & Peggy- the Sidetracked Sisters who spawned FlyLady. (Hey, Erin-- you seeing a theme here?) I keep hoping it'll kick in-- baby steps.

Anyway-- Brat Factor is based on the premise that we all have an "inner brat". (I named mine Edith Anne- remember Laugh In?).

The motto is:

"If it isn't fun, it won't get done"

(Now I have to buckle down and get one of my lectures finalized. JUST DO IT!- And MAKE IT FUN!!!)

On the knitting front: I've made pretty good progress on the first hand towel while watching college basketball on the tube. (Jane-- that's telly, not subway to you). March Madness should be a very productive time. Once I just paid attention to the knitting and not reading the pattern all the time, it decided to work with me.

I'm looking forward to "before" and "after" pictures with it, because there appear to be a lot of holes where knit meets purl, and small irregularities because the linen fiber is a bit irregular and pretty stiff. It's going to bloom and relax, I know... It's a nice travelling project in lieu of socks and mittens. Not too big, not too heavy, and makes more visible immediate gratification progress on 5's than socks on 0's.

And sometime soon I need to overcome my fear of sleeve caps and finish the darn Tilted Duster so I can WEAR it!!! (I guess I need to focus on how much fun it will be to have it finished.)

Sometime soon.

Random pic of the day:

Double rainbow somewhere in Ohio near Cleveland.

It Was a Beautiful Day

2008-03-02T14:18:00.003-05:00

Although it was quite windy and a bit chilly.

But despite the wind and the chill and the crowds (A very early St. Pat's Day Parade in Alexandria-- pretty soon it'll be held in January) our hearts were warm and it was one of the best recent days ever.

I met up with some Irregulars at Knit Happens. I haven't been able to make it to Late Night for several weeks, and I really missed everyone. It was like coming home after a long time away.

We caught some yumminess at Chipotle and on return to The Shop I set to the business of the most unbelievable in-person yarn sale I've experienced. Stef, Michelle and Kelly had incredible deals... 25--50--75--80--90--90 % off some of these terrific yarns!!!! I picked up a bunch of FibraNatura Flax (50%), some Nature Cotton (90%), a boatload of King Tut (90%), some Noro Kochoron (70%)-- Un-be-bleepin'-lievable!!!

I started on some linen hand towels, using the flax, as a special gift for a special person, using a pattern from Mason-Dixon Knitting. I'm using the Addi Lace needles-- a good match with the linen whch is a bit "splitty."

I ended up doing a bit of frogging. First I cast on the wrong number of stitches. Then my conversations interfered with basic counting... the beat goes on. I can say that the linen reacts pretty well to frogging and tinking, and softens up nicely. I am so looking forward to getting one finished so I can wash it and experience the drapiness promised by the Mason Dixons, Ann and Kay.

FidgetAnn met us after her class, and after a bit more sittin' and knittin', we (Ann, Dani, Elspeth and I) headed off in search of Margaritas and perhaps a bite to eat.
South Austin Grill was packed, so I suggested Hard Times Cafe, which has the best chili in the hemisphere if not the world. (I'd venture to say the world, since it doesn't seem likely to me that any other nation could "do" chili as well as the good ol' USA.) The chili (try the Frito pie) and Margaritas were out of this world. (I like all the chilis- but my favorite is Texas- as dry as possible.)

Then off to the Metro to head in separate directions, and home.

I continued to bungle the towel, and realized the reason I was messing up on this extremely easy pattern was that I was tuckered out, so frogged the whole thing and started over today.

Good decision, and I'm on my way.

Drive-By Randomness Blog

2008-02-21T21:53:00.004-05:00

-Virginia Tech-Maryland box scoreVirginia Tech 69, Maryland 65 It was a heck of a game last night-- and LATE!!! Tipoff was at 9 PM!
-Working on the second mitten.
-Will probably do some shoulderage on the Tilted Duster sleeves during tomorrow's anticipated sleet and ice.
-If it's not too bad, might drop by the shop.
-I love being able to be off when we're overstaffed-- but my vacation time is in danger of getting dribbled away.
That is all.

Random Picture du Jour

Wiameia Canyon, Hawaii. Can it be a year since I was there?

That's The Way...

2008-02-20T16:28:00.004-05:00

Uh Huh, Uh Huh

I LIKE IT

Uh Huh, Uh Huh

No- No!!! Not Again!!!

2008-02-16T12:52:00.004-05:00

Knitting? Not So Much

2008-01-31T23:18:00.000-05:00

We got slammed with car troubles again-- hopefully resolved by now.

The Son's transmission croaked, so $3600 and a new transmission later, we are back to a full complement of vehicles.

It's been a bit of a pain this week, with trips to Winchester to play musical cars, dropping The Husband off at work and picking him up, or vice versa, and dealing with what was, while not a catastrophe, hugely inconvenient. To top it off, I worked 4 nights over the weekend which is a story in itself.

I was particularly distressed that the 2 trips to Winchester coincided with Sister #3's visits to the area for work. When she's traveled before, we've made opportunities to meet for drinks or breakfast. This time it could not be. And she lives halfway across the continent! I can only hope that she'll be back so we can get together.

All this transiting, and associated schleppage also prevented Late Night for me this week. I'd been looking forward to it, but it was not meant to be.

So, I look forward to the return of some normalcy.

I really need to make progress on that second mitten!!!

Random Picture du Jour

Statue of John Wayne at the Orange County airport.

All Right!

2008-01-17T10:54:00.000-05:00

I hit Late Night on Wednesday. It had been awhile since I'd seen some of my friends. As always, conversation was lively (hint-- Andrew Morton's new book)and the work of these talented women was beautiful, as always. Stef gave a rundown of the TNNA excitement, and a wonderful verbal preview of the incredible new yarns and products we'll be seeing in The Shop.

I finished the first of my new mittens. It's a take on a peekaboo mitten, but with more overlap in the back. It's knit in Lorna's Laces 100% Alpaca in camel. Not sure where I got the yarn-- I think it was an eBay purchase, and it's the same yarn I used for my Mom's Branching Out shawl in teal. I have a couple of skeins in a bright-ish pink.

Now I need to do the other mitten.

So What's With The ADD?

And why do I have to work so hard to keep from casting on a new project before I finish what's in progress?

I really need to/want to finish the Tilted Duster, but I'm nervous about the shoulders. I simply need to get out the tape measure, focus, and just jump in and do it.

Part of it is the stash situation, I think. I have some wonderful yarns screaming to me to be knit. There's a beautiful grey and white handspun wool/angora I got at MSW. There's a sweater's worth of Jaeger Aran in teal from Knit Happens. There's one of those huge skeins of Mountain Colors from Hunt Country. I have lots of incredible sock yarns from lots of places.

I imagine there are worse problems to have.

Headin' South

2008-01-11T08:45:00.000-05:00

For the weekend, that is.

The Daughter is going back to school, and I'm driving down with her. The Husband will join us this evening, because we have tickets for the Hokies/Terps basketball game tomorrow.

The Daughter and I went grocery shopping yesterday, and I'm pretty pleased with our purchases. We've both decided to get serious (again, for me-- the constant battle)about eating healthy. So as we were checking out, I looked at what we'd purchased, and it was nearly all lean meats, chicken, fish, lots of veggies, soup, fruit--- all the stuff we should be eating.

We loaded up The Husband's car with the canned goods and some of the hearty veg. The proteins are in the freezer getting ready for the transit. We'll stop for dairy on the way out of town.

Quite an accomplishment.

Random Pic of the Day:

One of the resident parrots at The Salty Dog in Hilton Head.

My Daemon

2008-01-09T18:04:00.000-05:00

Spontaneous, sociable, inquisitive, outgoing- yep, that pretty much does it. Not sure about the modest part though...

Taking a Break

2008-01-07T09:01:00.000-05:00

Both Offspring are home from school, and I had the foresight to put in for vacation time. In our field, you really have to plan ahead for time off-- at least 2 months in advance.

Because of my less-than-stellar organizational skills, I frequently found myself forgetting to put in requests for time off except for vacation trips. This put me in constant danger of losing vacation time. So I've started taking time when I'm not going anywhere. It's a good thing. Gives me some time in the house, and this week, some time with The Kids.

I started knitting a pair of mittens with some Lorna's Laces Alpaca that I got somewhere. Can't remember where. I'm using the Magic Loop technique, since I can't find my shorter needles to use 2 circs. There seems to be a lot of this going on. I'm going to try using a short row toe technique to make a finger opening.

Worst thing that could happen is that it doesn't work, and I'll have to frog it.

Random Pic of the Day:
These are some of the gingerbread cookies that the Older Cousins decorated during the annual Cookie Bake at Sister#2's house in December. Aren't they pretty? (They tasted mighty fine, too.)

OK--Happy New Year Already

2008-01-05T13:24:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to get around to blogging (other than acknowledging the Orange Bowl sadness) but just couldn't get it together.

I need to jump-start 2008.

How about some resolutions? I've grown weary of the usual ones that fall by the wayside-- not that I won't try...

This year, with a knitting focus (not necessarily in order):

-Empty the needles. Finish the unfinished.

-Either knit up the orphan socks, or frog the first one.

-Complete the uncompleted, and put together all the pieces of things that are otherwise done.

-Be creative in using stash.

-Admit defeat. If something's not singing to me while I'm working on it, call it a day. Figure out the problem (wrong yarn? wrong project for the yarn?), and start over.

-Organize stash, needles and toys. Get rid of yarn I don't love.

That should do it.

Happy Stuff-- FO's

Mom's Rosebud Shawl

From This..
(Note about this colorway of Lion & Lamb-- The red bled. A lot. I did 4 complete washes and rinses before it stopped bleeding. I've never used this yarn before, so I can't speak to the other colorways.)

...To This: I gave myself some Blocking Wires for Christmas. They're from KnitPicks. They are a tad more pricey than they need to be, imho, but I love the heck out of them. For a blocking board, my old standby is a corrugated cardboard pattern board that I picked up years ago for about $7.00 at a fabric store. It has lines on it-- most handy, I must say-- and it works great for me. It warps a bit during blocking, but after it's folded up and stored in its handy plastic wrapper behind the piano, it works great the next time. The shawl was too long to fit on the board, and I just happened to have a long cardboard box from a shelf I just put together last week. If you look toward the fireplace, you can see where the box takes over. Handy, huh?

To This:
Now, I tried doing one of those glamour shots that Elspeth is so famous for, and it just ended up looking utterly ridiculous, so the recliner in the family room is sitting in for what would otherwise be me.

Project: Rosebud Shawl (free pattern from Briar Rose Fibers)
For: My Mom
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Lion & Lamb; Tuscany colorway; won in contest- 3 skeins
Needles: Denise 10-1/2 (from Knit Happens)
Started: November 2007
Finished: December 2007
Blocked: (see resolutions above) January 2008

Impressions-- I love knitting with the yarn-- it feels good, it has wonderful drape, and the color changes keep things interesting. The pattern is a dream. If I were to do it again, though, I'd probably make it wider by adding one or two more rosebud lines. There are 3 in the pattern as written. The tradeoff is that there wasn't enough yarn to make it this long if it were wider. I wouldn't have chosen this colorway if I were purchasing the yarn, but I like the way it turned out. I didn't notice until I took the picture, that it looks like it's trying to be plaid. Interesting.

Dad's Grey Scarf

You can see it being blocked above, next to Mom's Rosebud Shawl. How appropriate, since they've been by each others' sides for nearly 60 years. (Go Mom & Dad!!!)

I was really happy when Dad said he'd like for me to knit him a scarf. After a bit of discussion, we determined that the color couldn't be flashy (dark green would be too flashy), and he didn't want tan. As I was considering how to knit it, it occurred to me that the cables I had in mind might fall into the "too flashy" category, but I needed something that wouldn't bore me to tears while knitting .

I fondled miles of yarn at KnitHappens, zeroing in on the Rowan Cocoon-- a Merino/Mohair combo, in an acceptable shade of light charcoal grey (Rowan calls it Slate). I designed a pattern, loosely based on a mock-cable I saw in a stitch book.

Project: Dad's Grey Manly Man Scarf- my own pattern
For: My Dad
Yarn: Rowan Cocoon from KnitHappens; Slate; 2 skeins
Needles: Susan Bates circular size 9 (donated by Bates to the Hokie Healing Project and used by me to knit Hokie Squares. Thank you, Bates/Coats & Clark)
Started & Finished: December 2007
Blocked: with Mom's Rosebud Shawl January 2008
Impressions: I really liked knitting with Cocoon. It occasionally splits, but not so much that it's annoying. I was a bit worried that it would be stiff and scratchy-- it felt soft in the skein, but firmed up a bit during knitting. After washing in Eucalan, it's very nice and soft. If I were to do it again, I'd probably go up a size on the needles to improve drape, especially if I were doing something similar for a woman. I was a bit worried that it might look a little lacy.

And Finally:
Random picture of the day:This is lunch at a restaurant in Hilton Head that was used as Bubba's shrimping place in Forrest Gump. That oyster clump there had 8 oysters in it!!!

Rats!

2008-01-04T00:11:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas! And Happy Old Year!

2007-12-31T13:21:00.000-05:00

When I lived in Italy, I worked with British Naval Officers at a NATO command. On New Year's Eve, they always said "Happy Old Year."

It's been a very full "old" year-- filled with joy, hope, progress, sadness, healing.

We have been blessed with good health, fulfillment in our endeavors, and the joy of being together-- my husband and children, my parents, siblings and their children, and friends.

I went to Hawaii with The Parents last January. It was such a precious time for me-- to have them all to myself in such a lovely place. I love cruising, and the combination of being with them, seeing such beauty (and hey-- those whales!) --the entire experience was simply beyond description.

The Offspring and I spent a week this summer with The Parents, The Sibs and The Cousins on a lake in northern Wisconsin. There's nothing like being together, and I just love the way The Cousins melt into their relationships after not having seen each other for months.

We got together for our annual Cookie Bake in December-- more family bonding, fun and love.

The Husband and I had a great week in Hilton Head. Such great relaxing time!

We experienced the events of last spring, and have begun to heal, although we will never forget.

We had many football weekends in Blacksburg-- met new friends and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. (Even that heartbreaking loss to Boston College in the deluge.)

VT won the ACC championship (against Boston College-- go figure). We had a great time in Jacksonville at the game, and The Son was even able to come. The Hokies are headed to the Orange Bowl in Miami on Thursday.

The Daughter got laser eye correction surgery on Friday, and is happy and healing well, and looking forward to a lifetime of being able to see without glasses or contacts. (They were running late, they bought us pizza, we ended up getting locked in the garage, but that's another story.)

Quite a year, indeed.

Christmas Finally Arrived

Anyone who is married to- or parented by- a nurse will tell you that holidays take on a new and exciting twist. As in-- When will Christmas be this year? Or, Are we celebrating Thanksgiving on Tuesday or Saturday?

I worked the 24th, 25th and 26th this year. The question of when to celebrate became more complicated because of The Son's schedule at the movie theater. He is moving up the ladder, and is taking advantage of all opportunities.

We were finally all together last evening, after I got home from work at 9 p.m. Since we won't all be together on tonight or tomorrow, The Husband prepared our special pork and sauerkraut New Year's Day dinner. (It's a German thing.) And then we had presents. We got nice, warm things from The Parents. It makes me happy throughout the year to put on jammies or a robe or slippers from them-- it's like getting a hug.

The Daughter got a very strange gift from us-- a kitchen knife that she loves. Every time we're cooking together, she comments on one of my knives, and tells me how much she wants it. It's a bit of an investment knife-- so that's what she got, and she's thrilled.

The Son wanted a very specific backpack for his laptop. I ordered it on the 22nd and believe it or not, it arrived on the 24th. I was totally blown away! (and thrilled that whenever Christmas was going to arrive, he'd have his present.)

The Husband got a thing that takes your slides and negatives, and digitizes them. In my unending endeavors to declutter (hey-- it could happen!!!) it occurred to me that the minor mountain of unviewed, untouched during the past 10 years slides might find a new venue.

The Daughter and I had a great time at the bookstore getting just the right things for The Husband and The Son (who helped matters greatly by having a pretty extensive "want to read" list on his facebook.) And we found some books for ourselves as well.

And what do you think I found in my stocking? A VERY generous gift certificate to my favorite place, Knit Happens. The Husband and The Daughter could hardly contain themselves as they told of Rosanna's excitement to see them and to prepare my certificate. She did a LOVELY job-- with pink and green pen. (I'm not in photo mode right now, but tomorrow will bring pictures.)

And to all, a good night.

In Other News

My blocking wires arrived, (HURRAH!) and I'm looking forward to blocking Mom's Rosebud Shawl-- hopefully this afternoon. Pics tomorrow.

I'm making rapid progress on a scarf for my Dad. It's knit with Rowan Cocoon that I got at The Shop-color= slate which is a heathery charcoal grey. It's a design of my own, based on a mock-cable pattern from an Aran stitch book--- (can't remember which book at the moment, but I'll look it up and let you know.) I was thinking of doing some cables in the scarf, but Dad's not too much on "fancy" (dark green is a bit too flashy for him). I needed to keep some texture and interest in the scarf so I wouldn't go bonkers knitting it. So this seemed to be a good compromise. More pics tomorrow!

Catch you next year.

Cookie Baking Time

2007-12-14T13:14:00.000-05:00

I'm in the Chicago suburbs right now, with The Daughter. We flew in yesterday to spend some time with my sibs for our annual Cookie Bake.

It's a great time of the year, and a wonderful opportunity to be together.

I wrote last year about the tradition, but I don't think I mentioned our little Cookie Book.

Sister #1 was able to spend time with my grandmother in her later years, and collected her recipes. Of course there were some ambiguities, but over the past few seasons we've been able to iron out the bugs.

We made little laminated books with the recipes, and included a few anecdotes about our memories of Gramma's cookies.

Tomorrow's the day. We'll start at about 10:00. We're meeting at Sister #2's, and to quote my Austrian Gramma "All day ve bake."

We'll wrap up late in the evening, sorting the cookies into 10 family divisions and carefully packing them up for mailing or transport.

There's nothing like it.

Making Progress

2007-12-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

On the Rosebud Shawl, that is. It's actually quite a bit longer now--almost done with the second skein. I had some good knitting time while The Husband and I drove to Charlottesville (the home of another state university) for a meeting.

I like what the stitches are doing. See the little rosebuds? It's not as wobbly as the picture looks, and it will straighten out significantly when blocked.

Late Night was a Great Night at Knit Happens. Here are only a few of the many highlights.

Steph models her gloves which have become an inspiration to many Irregulars. (Not me, yet-- too much stash to work through. But I'm intrigued, and may attempt them. Soon.)
Kel working on a wee cap.

And Holly, being generally amused at all the picture-taking goings-on.

Wow! What A Game

2007-12-01T21:08:00.000-05:00

Virginia Tech Beats Boston College 30-16

VT is the new ACC Championship Team.

It was a well-played game,although I prefer it with just a bit less adrenaline. Beamerball was a major factor. Special teams were amazing.

I'm really tired-- need to watch more football, then go to bed.

Flying back to Washington at 7 am.

More details/pictures to follow.

On The Road/In The Air Again

2007-11-30T16:07:00.000-05:00

Kickoff at 1 pm Saturday Dec 1. Game is carried on ABC.

I'll be wearing orange (probably with maroon sleeves).

There was a countdown clock-- couldn't get it to work here.

Hey, I'm a Knitter, Right?

2007-11-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

And my blog doesn't always reflect it too well, but today is mostly knitting.

Cast Off

The Tilted Duster skirt, as mentioned the other day, is cast off. If you look closely, you'll see that the skirt was picked up around the stockinette top fronts and back. I need to finish the sleeves, which are about 2/3 done. I'm becoming a bit more careful in my knitting, and I will make sure that the sleeves fit it properly where they belong. Then I need to pick up the collar and knit rows and rows of 2X2 ribbing.

Cast On
I've been doing a lot of work in the house, and while decluttering, and assembling furniture, and cleaning, I've been listening to the Brenda Dayne's Cast Onpodcasts. I downloaded them, and have been listening to Brenda while working. To give you an idea of my progress, I'm on podcast number 47 right now. There were about 6 that didn't download, but since each podcast is about 1 hour long, you get a clue of how much domestic work I've been up to.

(Interestingly - in episode 37, I think- Stephanie Pearl McPhee- The Yarn Harlot pops in, and says that she had been listening to the podcasts in series while working on her home. I'm in such good company.)

Since she's been keeping me company with knitting tips, history, culture, music deep thoughts and so forth, I decided to visit the sponsor links. One of these is Briar Rose Fibers. I went to the website, and saw the bee-yoo-tiful yarns. They're pretty lovely. I'm a sucker for a free pattern, and their Rosebud Shawl called out to me.

It's a very easy 4-row repeat that makes lovely little rosebud-looking things-- hence the name. You can see them better if you click on the picture below to enlarge it. Unfortunately, I'm not clever enough to figure out how to include the picture you see on the pattern. I don't want to link directly to it, because that's not nice. I was able to copy the picture, but I can't save it as a bitmap or jpeg. It must be formatted differently from the pics I'm used to copying and sharing. If you don't have enough to do, and have time to figure it out, please let me know.

I've had 3 skeins of Lorna's Lace Lion and Lamb, won in an online contest, burning a hole in my stash basket. (Well, truth be told, it was in one of my numerous stash baskets, boxes and bins-- which is why I didn't buy any of the bee-yoo-tiful yarns. But I plan to, as soon as I knit up some more of what I have, and can therefore justify it.)

So I decided to cast on.

What?

I've just told you that I'm within spitting distance of completing the Tilted Duster, and I'm casting on a new project?

Before you lament my ADD, there is actually method in my madness. Since we're going to Jacksonville for the weekend, I need something to knit while travelling. (ACC Championship-- remember? I can't totally ignore football in this blog entry, after all...) The Tilted Duster is just getting too big to schlep.

So I started on the Rosebud Shawl. The yarn is doing some interesting things. It's turning out to be a bit brighter knit up than it appeared in the skein. I think it'll work, though.

Let's Go Hokies!!!

WeeMee

2007-11-27T08:32:00.000-05:00

PeekABoo!!

2007-11-26T18:05:00.001-05:00

xxxxxxx

Drive-By Blog

2007-11-25T16:25:00.000-05:00

Just got home from Charlottesville:

We're headed to Jacksonville next week for the ACC Championship game against Boston College.

Cast off the skirt from The Tilted Duster on the trip home. Pics to follow.

Gotta catch a quick nap-- working tonight.

That is all.

There Has Been Knitting

2007-11-21T12:19:00.000-05:00

During our week away I did quite a bit on the Tilted Duster, and have continued, although the reorganizing efforts have dominated the energy output.

But here we are... about 15 more rows or so on the skirt, then finish the sleeves, and pick up the collar. It would probably be helpful for me to set a deadline, but there are other things going on.

I just love the way the colors are coming out. It's a bit strange, with the sleeve stripes being much wider, but I think it'll work. I've had to do a bit of futzing with the colorway-- inserting bits of yarn at strange places-- to have the stripes on the skirt sort of approximate each other. The colors are much prettier in real life, and after it's done, I'll try to get an outdoors picture that might better represent the actual tones.

The Peekaboo Mittens were finished a few weeks ago, and The Daughter wore them at the game against FSU. She's happy with them, but would like an overlap on the palm, so they're not open when the fingers are all inside. I think it's possible to do, and I may try to make another pair this winter, elongating the lower edge of the finger hole. We'll let you know!

(I've been trying to load the mitten pictures, but The Blogger must have hit the eggnog a bit early. I'll try later.)

And so now, The Daughter and I will do a bit of baking to get ready for tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving, all.

Busy Busy Busy

2007-11-20T00:08:00.000-05:00

And having a ball.

We got back from B-Burg yesterday in time for me to do another wonderful night shift. I can say that because the Godesses smiled and I was able to be off tonight.

The weekend was great. The Daughter had friends visit, so we had a house-full again. But we were all so busy that there was little tripping over one another. We went to dinner at B-Dubs, then back to catch up on the DVR list.

Everyone was up early to participate in Hokies Thank The World. It was fun-- a beautiful day, some 9,000 people, I think, and lots of good spirit. It was a chance to thank everyone for the outpouring of support during the last 6 months. (I'm up at the top of the T, just to the right of the speaker stand. I'm wearing maroon. Do you see me? Ha Ha). By the way, if you have hours and hours to get lost in, give yourself a great treat, and download GoogleEarth. It's free, and you can locate your house, stars in the galaxy, and a satellite image of the picture above. I had a great time last night. (Gotta be careful, though. It's almost as addictive as Cubis2).

Then a great game against Miami. The scoreboard was so thrilled it went Kablooey right after the game was over:

Here's a better idea of what happened:
Hokies defeat Miami 44-14

Autumn-- It Doesn't Get Any Better

With all the drought and heat that went well into November, we thought there wouldn't be much in the way of great foliage this year. Well, there has been, and it's been spectacular. It started with mostly the deep, tapestry tones, but has expanded into vibrant displays.

Our commutes to Blacksburg (and even just to work, for that matter) have been breathtaking.

I've been trying to figure out how to put captions under the pictures, but really don't have the time to fiddle with it now. The top picture was taken during the Hokies Thank the World photoshoot in Blacksburg. The one on the right is the tree in my front yard. The bottom picture is across the little bay on the Potomac, looking toward Mount Vernon.

Lots more tomorrow. Including some actual Knitting Knews.

A Busy Week Off Work

2007-11-16T19:41:00.000-05:00

Decluttering.

Cleaning.

Doing Laundry-- lots and lots of laundry.

Building furniture.

Polishing silver.

Washing floors.

Wishing I had more time off.

Veteran's Day

2007-11-11T07:43:00.000-05:00

It's Veteran's Day. To a lot of people it means another sale at Macy's, or a day off work.

To others, it means the memory of a loved one who gave the ultimate sacrifice for them and for all we hold dear.

To me, it means unending respect for My Father, who served Marines on the front lines in Korea, tending to their injuries of body and spirit in conditions I can't imagine. It is memories of those I served with, some of whom are no longer with us, and of the sacrifices they made, whether in family separation, numerous hardships, or with their lives; appreciation for the amazing work and sacrifice of those who went before me and the freedom I enjoy because of them, awe of the accomplishments of those who are in service following me, and pride in all that is good about our nation.

Their work is symbolized by our Flag and the symbols of our nation. And that's why I may glare at those who chat on cellphones during the National Anthem, and find it too difficult to take off their hats during The Pledge, and don't think it's important to stand when The Flag is presented. I realize they just don't understand, and it makes me sad.

It doesn't seem too much to expect.

Hey-- Go Hug a Vet!

In Other News...

How Unbelievably Sweet It Is!

The first Hokie victory against FSU.
Read All About It!

Catching Up

2007-11-10T11:03:00.000-05:00

The Husband and I drove to Blacksburg last night for the Hokies' football game against FSU this afternoon. Here's hoping.... we don't have ~~a good~~ any record of winning against the 'Noles.

Today is Hokies for the Hungry- a food drive by the Marching Virginians. Moe's participated in the project by donating $$ and canned goods for each burrito purchased yesterday. The Husband and I were on our way to pick up said burritos, and decided to see if we could go to the basketball game last night. It was great fun-- and the first live hoops I'd seen since I saw Michael Jordan playing against the Wizards. That gives you an idea... We went to Moe's after the game. Good burritos.

Hilton Head
What a wonderful week. I have great pictures, and will share them soon. (Wouldn't you know-- I finally have time to blog and internet access, and the camera's not here....)

I spent the week sleeping, eating fresh seafood, walking on the beach, reading, knitting, and generally relaxing to the max. Oh, and watching football.

I finished reading Divorced, Drunk and Covered in Cat Hair by Crazy Aunt Purl-- highly recommended. In honor of being at Hilton Head, I started The Water is Wide by Pat Conroy. For some reason, I'd never read any of his work, although I've seen the movies-- The Great Sanitini, Conrack (film version of The Water is Wide), Lords of Discipline and Prince of Tides. I think I've got a new list of books to read.....

I also picked up HTML for Dummies-- we'll see if I learn anything. Actually, you'll be able to see if I learn anything. But it may take awhile.

I made great progress on The Tilted Duster. Once the skirt stitches are picked up and carefully counted, counted, and counted again, it's a pretty mindless knit. My method of keeping track of rows and increase rows is to make a little grid that I check off. I don't have great luck with row counters, especially when there is more involved than simply counting rows (eg. increase on rows 1,3 7 repeat from * 8 times). The front and back are completed, I'm about halfway through the skirt, and about 2/3 through each of the sleeves. I decided to start on the sleeves, because, well, you know-- sleeves... But I wanted to finish the front and back first so that I can make sure the sleeve caps will fit properly. The collar will be picked up and knit-- more mindless 2X2 rib.

We went to Casey's on Hilton Head to watch VT against Georgia Tech, and met new friends from Blacksburg who were also there to watch the game. We're joining them today for tailgate before the game. I baked some brownies-- boy, do they smell good!

So now to wrap this up, I say
LET'S GO HOKIES!

Breaking Away

2007-10-25T00:17:00.000-04:00

But not before seeing Karida's marvelmous new yarn at Knit Happens this evening. It was a lovely time, although I needed to bug out fairly early.

Because

We're on our way to Blacksburg in the morning.

In the rain.

For Thursday night football.

In the rain.

But hey-- there's been a drought, so it's a good thing. And maybe it can stop for a couple of hours tomorrow night.

It would be nice.

And then...

A whole week

Here's an interesting segment I found at the hiltonhead.com website:

First Aid Tips
We hope you don't have any problems while visiting Hilton Head Island, or if you live on Hilton Head Island. But, if you do have any of the following problems, we offer some helpful hints for you:

Sunburn - Soak in cool water unless skin is broken or blistered. Ibuprofen may help.

Bee Stings - Apply a baking soda paste and ice. If allergic, seek medical help.

Jelly Fish Stings - Apply vinegar, sugar, salt or dry sand. After 20 min., rinse with salt water.

Crab Bites - rinse well, disinfect, and apply antibiotic ointment. May need stitches.

Tick Bites - DO NOT attempt to remove the tick. Cover with vaseline or a film of oil. When insect is free, remove with tweezers. Look for flu-like symptoms for up to two weeks. If this occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Snake Bites - CALL 911. Use a compression dressing just above site, NOT a tourniquet.

Oyster Shells - cuts and abrasions can result in serious infections. Medical treatment advised.

Alligators - Do NOT go near alligators. They run very fast. Do NOT feed or tease !

Sting Ray - rinse with water and apply heat to neutralize sting. Seek medical attention.

Hmmmm.... May need STITCHES???
SERIOUS INFECTIONS???
ALLIGATORS????

Way to promote the tourism.

I think I'll survive.

And if it rains, I'll read books and knit. I can think of worse ways to spend a week.

A WHOLE WEEK!!!

(catch you later)

What REALLY Went On At Hogwarts?

2007-10-20T17:18:00.000-04:00

Hmmmm..... Very Interesting!

Actual Knitting Content...

2007-10-19T14:30:00.000-04:00

And a few assorted other things.

First for the knitting:

This lovely Tilted Duster from Interweave being done in Noro Silk Garden. I'm starting with the sleeves-- knitting them up to the sleeve cap separately, and then I'll do them both at the same time. Then no sleeve island for me.

I think it'll be an interesting sweater, what with the angles and stripes and all. The problem that's driving me a bit nuts is that Noro screwed me over. I started the first sleeve last week at Late Night at Knit Happens following a night shift at work, so I was a bit fuzzy (although I'm told I was quite amusing. Glad to oblige.)

I ran into a knot, so did the ol' spit-splice thing and knit merrily on my way. I dutifully went through a new skein when I started the second sleeve, to make sure I started in the same place so the stripes would sort of match. Even though I realize it's handspun/dyed yarn, I like them to bear some resemblance to each other stripe-and-color wise.

Do you see any pink in the middle of the left sleeve? Neither do I. I do believe the folks who put in that knot weren't too concerned about continuing the colorway in order.

After much discussion this week at Late Night (also somewhat foggy and with only 2 hours of sleep after yet another night shift) I was reassured that the nature of Noro allows for some variation, and unless I was going to make myself crazy with the whole thing, and unroll each skein side-by-side to ensure matching-ness, I should charge forward. So charge forward I will. Holly was kind enough to put me in for 5 more balls of the Silk Garden, which luckily she already has on order.

This is a short sock, using the Stephanie Pearl McPhee's Sock Recipe. It's in a bamboo blend yarn that I picked up at Mosaic in Blacksburg. (I took out the link here, because some bug sent me to a bible college site.)

These guys are Peekaboo Mittens for The Daughter who is a member of

Their little hands get cold in the stands during the football games (or they will, if it ever gets below 80), so she can wear these.

And when it's time to play..... Peekaboo!!!!

Needless to say, the thumbs aren't done yet, and I'm working on that grafting thing.

By the way, if you're looking for some interesting info about Virginia Tech's Marching Virginians, read this
article about the Marching Virginians in ESPN magazine.

Hey-- They Said It Was Going To Rain

And when I left work this morning, I did feel about 5 raindrops. But Hey-- they promised Thunderstorms. Lightening. Something to make us feel that our 34 days of rain-less-ness was coming to an end.

It seemed like the birds were expecting some weather.There were literally thousands of them in the trees outside the hospital, making all sorts of noise.As I looked closer at another tree, I realized these weren't leaves. They were MORE BIRDS!

Tippi Hedron-- Watch Out!!!!

Happy Halloween

2007-10-08T04:23:00.001-04:00

Compliments of Lowes

And What To My Wondering Eyes Should Appear...

2007-09-27T09:24:00.000-04:00

And I wish I'd had my camera. (but if I get time later today, I'll take some pics to share.)

Met The Husband at Lowe's last night after a great time at Late Night. We were going to get a couple of final touches for the most recent bathroom.

On my way in I saw-- Christmas trees. Lights. Tinsel. Great Big Blinking Snowflakes.

When I entered the store I saw-- Big inflatable snowman things with plastic snow flying around.

I Couldn't Bleepin' Believe It!!!!

It's September.

And 93 degrees outside.

Pictures!!!

2007-09-24T17:12:00.001-04:00

In further news-- The kitchen faucet is still broken, and I'm awaiting the part from Moen.

And finally:

Moving Right Along...

2007-09-19T14:03:00.000-04:00

First of all, no pictures. That's why I haven't posted-- The Blogger is being difficult.

VT beat Ohio University last Saturday. It wasn't a blow-out, and Ohio made The Hokies work for it. The freshman QB Tyrod Taylor did a respectable job, and the game served as an offensive tune-up. We needed that-- the "tune up" and the win.

For those familiar with the chant that accompanies the offense inside the 20 yard line, you may not know that "Stick It In" has been prohibited to the band. No cadence, no words, nothing. "Stick It In" is very much a Hokie tradition-- as much as the lunchbox, as much as the "key play" on defensive third downs. The Student section took over, and did us proud.

Weaver-- worry about the IMPORTANT things!!!!

Weather-wise, it was about as perfect as you could expect-- sunny, cool, in fact downright chilly in our seats. Fall's on its way.

The first mitten is nearly done after many rip-outs. Number two was started on the way home. Most of the trip was spent snoozing, however, since I had to work Sunday night. WORK!!!! It's such a distraction!

In brief bathroom news, it's completely done-- looks really nice.

Wish I could show you the pictures....

And now, off for Blacksburg. Tomorrow's game is against William and Mary.

Should be fun.

Here We Go Again

2007-09-10T08:55:00.000-04:00

The Destructo guys came in on Friday, took out the old tub, pot and sink, and installed the new tub. While plumbing the tub drain, they needed to cut a hole in the ceiling of the powder room below. Oh joy.

The Husband painted the ceiling, window and door frames yesterday.

Today is Drywall Guys. Apparently they didn't get the word about a major part of the wall being removed to accommodate the plumbing, but they're being mensches (that's a good thing) and getting it all done. They were actually scheduled for 2 days, but I don't think it'll take that long.

When we have walls, I'll paint-- might even be able to get it done today, because these guys are moving fast. The Daughter ordered up a rich, grey-toned blue. I have the paint chips and will head off to Lowe's this afternoon. (Must remember to get paint for the powder room ceiling).

The mirror and wall cabinets are a medium walnut finish, and I think it'll be a striking combination with the bluish-grey wall tile that will surround the tub to the ceiling. The tile accent at eye level is various tones of blue, grey and green stone.The floor is going to be a dark grey tile.

The big hole around the tub will have cement board installed, which I'm told is the Tile Guys' job. They should be done by Friday, and then the Plumbing Guys come on Monday for the final install.

There will be a mirror(Michael's), two wall cabinets (IKEA), a small pedestal sink, brushed pewter fixtures, brushed pewter towel bar, tp holder & towel rings (Lowe's) and I get to go shopping again for shower curtain, tension bar, and new towels (probably Bed Bath & Beyond). We got a small floor cabinet (IKEA) with drawers that complements the wall cabinets.

Meanwhile

In the rest of my life, I worked the last 4 days (Thurs-Sun) and am a bit tuckered out. The Hokies football game against LSU started at 9:30 on Saturday night. I was initially really happy, because I got home at 9 p.m. so saw kick-off wearing my VT scrub shirt (a Christmas gift from The Daughter her first year) which I wear when I have to work on Game Day. During football season, I usually have to work on Game Day for "away" games, since we have season tickets, and I arrange to be off for home games in Blacksburg.

Nurse=work when people are sick=days, nights, weekends, holidays. It's part of the job.

I went to bed at halftime because I had to get up at 5 to go to work.

Cost/Benefit analysis:
Cost: stay up for the rest of the game, be sad, get to bed at 1 am. Wake up groggy and grumpy for a 12 hour shift.
Benefit: not much.

I tried changing my shirt. I had my Team United bracelets on. I hummed Tech Triumph, The Hokie Fight Song and Carry Me Back throughout (somewhat to the consternation of The Husband), but it didn't seem to help. So with the score 24-0 at the half, I joined Sandman. I felt like I was abandoning the team, but there are hundreds of thousands of other fans, so maybe it wasn't my fault. I will say that as I drifted off, I envisioned the final score as 57-3, so 48-7 wasn't as bad.
I received many condolences at work on Sunday morning.

Might I say, in the greatest and most sincere spirit of Hokies Respect: LSU was awesome. If we had to lose, it was to a team that truly outplayed us.

But we'll be back.

Knitting-- yes, there is some: Restarted the Peekaboo mittens.

This time for sure!!!

Some Tears, Many Cheers, and a Few Fears

2007-09-03T12:45:00.000-04:00

The Hokie Nation is alive, well, still a bit bruised, and back in force in Blacksburg.

We arrived Friday night after an uneventful ride down. I got about half of one Peekaboo Mitten (using Debbie Bliss Cashmarino DK from Knit Happens) finished for The Daughter.

In addition to her roommate, 2 of The Daughter's friends were visiting, so it was quite a little house full. Or quite a full little house. Or apartment. We had a great time-- we all went to Buffalo Wild Wings along with another of her visiting friends on Friday night and ordered 100 wings. I could never have imagined ordering 100 wings, but with 7 of us-- and 5 of them college girls and recent grads, we polished 'em off. Wish I'd taken a picture! I totally enjoyed being with all of them. I had a great time.

The game was very emotional-- tributes at the beginning videos, a flyover, and more than a few tears. The game itself was less well played than we were comfortable with, but we won, and hopefully will be a bit more focused for next week's game against LSU.

After the game The Husband & I walked back to the condo, stopping at the Kroger for provisions. I fixed spaghetti for the crew, and we had some rather "well done" garlic bread and salad. I told them they could do whatever, and that my feelings wouldn't be hurt, but that I felt like having spaghetti, and they could freeze it if they wanted to do something else. They seemed to like the spaghetti idea. They went through nearly a crock pot full of sauce. It made me happy.

Yesterday morning I test drove the new waffle iron The Daughter and I picked up before she went back to school. The girls went through a whole box of bisquick's worth of waffles. Hmm-- could it be that they miss "Mom's" (as in everyone's Moms?) cooking? (I'm not that great a cook. Good- not great.)

It was so great to see The Daughter-- and it had only been a couple of weeks. I hugged her as we left, and just didn't want to let go.

Of course, no trip to Blacksburg is complete without a visit to Mosaic, so we stopped by after leaving The Girls. I was lucky to get there just as Gina was leaving, so at least got to get a hug and say "hi". And they were having a sale, so a bag of Noro Silk Garden jumped into my arms. It was comforting, because there was also a huge sale at Knit Happens over the weekend, and I wasn't there!

We went to campus to view The Memorial on the drillfield. More tears. More aching in the heart. More sadness for the families who can't ever again be with their loved ones. More prayers, more thanks, more pride in our students and their school.

I completed all but the thumb on the Peekaboo Mitten on the drive back, but decided it was a bit too short, so frogged back to the beginning of the finger decreases. I'll probably end up making a whole additional pair of these, or rip the whole thing out because I probably should have used the smaller gauge pattern to begin with, and it's a bit snug around the palm.

So, off for a few days-- getting ready for another bathroom renovation-- and then back to work.

It's Been So Long

2007-08-28T08:58:00.000-04:00

Since I've blogged, and since I've done any productive knitting.

Back to work-- busy, busy, busy. It's been emotionally draining.

I haven't even had time to read other blogs, until today.

I was able to hit Late Night a couple of weeks ago, and it was so very wonderful to be back amongst my knitting buddies. I took along the Lizard Ridge shawl, but yet again ended up not paying attention, and goofed it up. So, frog, frog, tink, tink. I plan to be at The Shop tomorrow night, and can't wait. But I think I'll need to focus on something that requires minimal, if any, counting so I can focus on the conversation.

Lizard Ridge, while not challenging, is best left for the car rides to Blacksburg.

Speaking of which--

Hurrah!!!!!
Hokies Football starts this week!!!!

I'm looking forward to the whole thing-- the car rides with time spent with The Husband, unchallenged time to knit during the drive, being with The Daughter and her friends, the pre-game excitement, the great football games themselves, the mountains, visiting my friends at Mosaic--- just can't be beat. This will be an important time for continued healing in the Hokie community. April 16th is ever present, but the spirit of the wonderful people of Blacksburg and the incredible resiliance of the students are moving forward.

Let's Go Hokies!

And In To The Dog Days

2007-08-14T10:25:00.000-04:00

Of summer, that is. Meet Peanut. She's my brother's Italian Greyhound. 7 pounds of boundless energy.

I returned last week from a fantastic time with my family in the North Woods of Wisconsin. And do I ever wish I were back there!!!

The Son and I drove to Ludington, Michigan, and travelled across Lake Michigan on SS Badger.
It was a much-needed 4 hour break from an all-day drive from the Washington DC area. The ship is pretty neat-- it's a car ferry, that was originally designed to transport trucking cargo and train cars. There are "staterooms" available, but also lots of areas with comfy seats where one can catch a snooze. I ran into a knitter in the "Quiet Room."

We landed in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and proceeded to what was probably the last available motel room in Eastern Wisconsin. The Oshkosh Fly-In was that week. When I was making reservations, my requirements were modest: a 2-bed non-smoking room. There was one in Green Bay-- about a 40-mile trek from Manitowoc.

The NorthWoods are amazing. I spent a lot of time up there as a kid during the summer, at camp and camping with friends and family. There are trees, trees, and more trees; lakes at every turn in the road; people who are down-to-earth, and just plain glad to see you. I think I could be happy there-- but I'd have to try a "winter-over" first, just to be sure.

It was just the best, being with The Parents, The Sibs and Their Spouses, and The Collective Offspring. All totalled, we are 45. And this year all but 3 were able to be there for at least part of the time. The Offspring are really getting along well, growing in age and grace, and able to entertain themselves. The Sibs all enjoy being together with The Parents at any opportunity. We are truly blessed, and we don't take it for granted, ever.

I picked up The Daughter at the Rhinelander airport, and got to meet the Hodag

We made the most of our time in Wisconsin with a visit to the Leinenkugel's Brewery

A get-together for 45 of my favorite relatives at the ORIGINAL Famous Dave's

(That's not the family-- just a pic of the inside... And my new friend.

I even did a "drive-by" of Camp We-Ha-Kee (seriously-- I'm not kidding) where I spent time as a camper, and later as a counselor

And after a last pontoon ride on the lake to see the eagle's nest in the tree around the bend, I headed back to Rhinelander Airport, to fly back so I could return to work.

Knitting News?

Not so much. I need to remember "MINDLESS KNITTING-- IT'S A GOOD THING."

I had the bad judgement to take along a couple of projects that were just a bit too fussy to work on while talking to family. AND, I discovered that on MS3, I'd been making some continuing errors. I printed out the pattern in black and white, instead of color, and I ended up putting beads in every row, since the overlap squares on the 2 pages of the pattern chart end up looking the same as the lavender shaded squares that indicate bead placement. Because of yarn-overs and various decreases, they aren't all centered, and it looks pretty awful. I'll be able to solve the problem by using a pliers to break the offending beads, but it was all too overwhelming to deal with.

The Leaf Trellis socks also require attention that was better spent with my loved ones. Attention well spent, but no knitting accomplished.

That'll teach me.

I Have a Pen Pal!

2007-07-25T19:12:00.000-04:00

Or rather, an e-mail pal. Her name is Jane, and she lives in England. She found me through the Mosaic blog, and we've been corresponding.

How fun! I had a pen pal once when I was a kid, but she only wrote to me twice. I kept writing (I'm thick like that) and after about 20 unanswered missives, I gave up.

Jane just started her own blog, so go visit her!

On My Way...

To the North Woods of Wisconsin, that is. I'm packin' up the knitting, the iPod, the camera, the corkscrew, the fishing pole and the industrial strength mosquito repellent.

It should be a good time.

It will be about a 2 day trip to get there. The Son and I are leaving early early in the a.m., for Ludington Michigan, taking the 4-hour ferry ride across Lake Michigan to get to Wisconsin. We've taken SS Badger a couple of times before across the lake, but the kids were quite small then. The Daughter is in Florida at a sorority gathering, and she'll fly to Wisconsin on Sunday. The Husband, unfortunately, is deeply embroiled in work, and has to take a pass on this year's gathering. We will miss being with him.

The place that we're gathering is Barker Lake, which doesn't appear on many maps, but is near the tiny town of Winter. There is a lot of outdoor activity up there, to go along with the mosquitoes. Lots of lakes, fishing, and so forth. The original resort and golf course were established in the 1920's by beer baron "Polack Joe" Soltis who designed it as a retreat for other Chicago area gangsters. Such history....

I come from a rather large family-- I have 4 brothers and 4 sisters, and amongst us we have 26 children ranging in age from 8 to 25. So we get together every summer for a week, and again over New Year's. When we are all able to be together with our parents, we number 45 so it's quite a gathering. We've gathered at a number of places over the years, and this will be our first at this location, although it is familiar to many of us.

When I was growing up, we would spend a week each summer at a girls' camp (Camp We-Ha-Kee; I knit you not), because it's pretty remote, and they needed to have a doctor and nurse there all the time. So my father, who is a doctor, volunteered at the camp. The girls in the family stayed in cabins with the campers, and the boys were in the doctor's cabin. As we got older, the siblings would visit Barker Lodge for a round of golf and a couple of beers. By this time I was away from home playing sailor lady, so I've never been there. My parents heard that the property had been sold, gone into disrepair, and then was purchased by someone who is reviving it. So we decided that it would be a good place to go. One of my sisters is there now, and she said it's rustic, and lots of fun, so I'm anxious to get on the road.

Some of the events we envision are a visit to the Leinenkugel Brewery, the ORIGINAL Famous Dave's, and some fishing, chatting, reading, relaxing, and a bit of work on the Mystery Shawl.

I'd better get packing!

...And in Happier News

2007-07-21T17:57:00.000-04:00

Decent progress on MS#3.

And-- my Harry Potter book just arrived.

Catch you later.

Mystery Shawl #3 and Non-Bulimic Purging

2007-07-17T08:17:00.000-04:00

Making some progress after 2 total frogs from 20 rows or so. Pics tomorrow, maybe.

The better news is that I've been making some noticeable progress in de-cluttering. We have way too much stuff (my massive yarn stash and multiple sets of needles and accessories don't count!!!!!) (Except maybe my bazillion straight steel needles from my pre-Addi, pre-Crystal Palace past. I'll probably give them to friends as starter needles as I teach them to knit.)

I've filled 3 lawn & leaf bags with clothes I haven't worn forever, or just decided I don't care to wear anymore. I hope to fill 2 more. I filled a box with shoes that are in good repair, but don't fit perfectly. Life is too short for sore feet, regardless of how lovely the shoes may be. (Go Crocs!!!) My side of the closet is pretty amazing. I'm holding on to most of my tote bags, because one can't knit without them.

There are charity pick-ups at the house on Saturday and Monday, and my goal is to have a respectable pile for each pick-up. Y'know-- the second iron that works well, the huge amount of coordinated plastic storage containers that looked so great at the Tupperware party-- 15 years ago, the stack of jigsaw puzzles I picked up before a vacation just in case it rained all week, the pool toys that the kids have long outgrown, the matching Samsonite I received when I graduated from high school (still works great, but HEAVY!!!), fabrics for projects that just aren't going to happen, and at least some of the vases and flower-arrangement containers that have accumulated over the years.

I've donated most of the hotel toiletry items to a shelter. I kept the really nice ones, and am using them in my new bathroom. It makes me feel like I'm staying at a resort--- at least while I'm in the shower. We take our escapes as we can...

I'm in the process of giving my several year collection of needlework/crosstitch pattern magazines to a friend who loves and will use them. I will probably put together my flosses and give them to her as well. I haven't cross-stitched for probably 5 years. If I decide to do another project, I'll get more.

The hardest project for me is de-booking. I need to set a reasonable goal for donating books to the ongoing library book sale. I was endowed with such a love for books, that it's hard to part with them, but hey-- they're taking over the place!!!

I'm still so far from where I want to be, but you remember that trip of a thousand miles....

And then there's the office. Lord, give me strength!!!

I'd much rather knit.

A Fine Friday

2007-07-07T14:58:00.000-04:00

It was lovely. I got to sleep to a reasonable time, then went to work for a meeting and a tad of paperwork. I actually made it out in 2-1/2 hours!

Then to Trader Joe's to pick up some provisions for Knit'n'Nosh at Knit Happens. It's been ages since I've been able to stop in. And it was so great to see the friends I've been missing for so long, and some new friends as well.

These women are really important in my life, and I miss them when I'm not able to "hang out" for awhile.

I haven't seen Stephanie for a couple of months. We've both been busy and away. She started a new project-- a baby blanket that's a beautiful pale blue. Katie is back in the States for awhile, and it was great to see her, and catch up a bit. She brought in a top she'd done in King Tut, in a dark red. She wasn't fond of the way it looked on her, but Aimee tried it on, and it was spectacular.

I hadn't seen Rosanna since MS&W. She's working on the Mystery Shawl 3, which I joined as well-- but haven't started yet. Maybe today. (Need to go pick up some beads!) (Sorry-- it's closed, so I didn't link it.) Elspeth was holding down the fort at the counter. She appeared to be working on a modular knit scarf, and making good progress, I might add. Nikki was there, and I met another Laura. (Never enough Laura's.)

My friend from work, M came, too-- for a very special reason. She wanted to learn to knit! My evangelism is working! And since it was her birthday, I decided she needed to start out right, so she magically received an Addi Turbo circular, a couple of balls of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino in a wonderful turquoise/teal that she zeroed in on immediately, and a set of "toys" that came in a cute little pouch. The yarn looks amazing with her pale blue-gren eyes. She is a quick study, and learned to cast on, knit and purl in just over 2 hours, and is on her way to a very respectable scarf.

We were having such a good time that I lost track of time, and Holly finally had to point out that it was closing time. (You don't have to go home, but you can't. stay. here.) And home I went.

Here We Go Again
This morning it was back to Mosaic Tile to look at tile for the middle bathroom. I just love looking at tiles and considering combinations and possiblities. The consultants really know their stuff, and are able to recommend combinations, and to give rough, ballpark estimates of cost for the project. Following my own advice, I paid a bit more attention to price this time around, and found a couple of possibilities that are very reasonable. We will probably tile around the tub to the ceiling, with some accents at eye level, rather than doing the walls around the whole room. We'll retile the floor and get a new tub, toilet, and probably a pedestal sink, as well as new lighting and medicine cabinet/mirror. And of course, the plumbing.

So I'll call the contractor this week, and get going on the plans, estimates and schedules.

Good thing I like this stuff...

Hokie Healing Wrapup

2007-07-02T13:22:00.000-04:00

Go see Mosaic and Gina (and probably their other links) for great pics, video, and a story that will touch your heart.

Back on Blossom Street

2007-07-01T14:55:00.000-04:00

I can’t spend as much time reading as I would like. So most of my reading is non-fiction, work-related or spiritual. I listen to novels (as well as non-fiction and biography genres) on my iPod while commuting and traveling, and as a bedtime treat as I’m drifting off. (It reminds me of my Dad reading bedtime stories when I was little.)

I was given the opportunity to review Back on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber. I was familiar with her name, and knew that she categorizes herself as a romance writer, but had never read or listened to her work. As I looked for information on the book, I discovered that it is the third in a series of “knitting novels” by the author who has written 120 books with several scheduled for release in the upcoming months.

I’m not a big “romance” reader. But I do enjoy reading and listening to stories about women and their friendships, relationships, interactions and lives. I’m a great fan of Anne Rivers Siddons, who I wouldn’t categorize as a “romance” writer. I’ve discovered that the genre has expanded and that current novels don’t follow the traditional patterns of romances. (There are no Fabios in these books!)

Not having read The Shop on Blossom Street and A Good Yarn, the previous two books in the series, I ordered them for my iPod, and listened to them abridged, which were the only versions available (not a great fan of "abridged" but you take what you can get...). I became familiar with the basic characters and back-stories. You don’t have to read these first, because Debbie (may I call you Debbie?) brings you up to speed in the current book; however I think the previous books enrichen the story, and they’re fun, quick "reads."

Back on Blossom Street is the tale of a group of women and their friends and families. Lydia owns the shop “A Good Yarn”; her sister Margaret helps run the store, Alix- introduced in the previous books, is a young woman with a troubled past who has found her way (and a good man); Susannah owns a flower shop, "Susannah’s Garden", and hires Collette, a rather mysterious newcomer to town who has experienced tragedy and disappointment and has challenges to face. The focus drawing the story and characters together is the local yarn shop, where they gather for class to knit “prayer shawls,” each with a specific reason for knitting hers. The story progresses with crises, conflicts and resolutions—and through it all, knitting and the friendship of the knitters maintains the thread. (Yes, you may laugh weakly.) Characters from the previous two books are reintroduced, giving promise of new books in the series to come.

There are a couple of bonuses in the book. Debbie includes actual prayer shawl knitting patterns for beginning and more advanced knitters. What an unexpected pleasure! I plan to knit Alix's prayer shawl which is a lacy, intermediate pattern. (Hmmm-- I seem to remember purchasing some forest green laceweight at MS&W... Hmmmm)

Reading this book, and listening to its predecessors brings to mind my own “LYSs” in my two homes—Alexandria and Blacksburg. The remarkable women I’ve met in these wonderful oases of caring and creativity, with their myriad life stories and experiences are in themselves rich novels-in-waiting. (Probably won’t happen—I don’t have Debbie’s gift. So just read my blog and follow the links to theirs.)

Is Back to Blossom Street “GREAT literature” in contention for the GREAT American novel?” You know the answer.

Is it GREAT fun, a GREAT story of women’s friendship and a GREAT beach or bathtub read? It surely is.

Will I continue to follow the women of “The Shop?” You Betcha.

Debbie just released another new book. The title? Susannah’s Garden. Sound familiar?

Sloooouououuurrrrrp!!!!!

That’s the sound of me allowing myself to be sucked into another series.

And looking forward to it!

Hey-- It's Hot Out There!

2007-06-28T17:03:00.000-04:00

Out camping with the Girl Scouts, that is...

I did the First Aider thing with a really great group of girls. And it was hot. Dripping hot. I can hardly breathe because the air is so thick hot.

It happens on this day EVERY year!

It all turned out all right-- no catastrophes, and I actually got some sleep last night.

I also got some knitting done on the Leaf & Tendril sock. I hadn't been able to knit for a week, so I was a Happy Nurse.

I really enjoy being with the girls, and spending time with women who share my belief that we are contributing to the best hope for another generation of strong women who will change the world.

Tomorrow-- a review of "What I've Been Reading."

Freedom is Not Free

2007-06-26T23:08:00.000-04:00

The price I paid for being able escape to Blacksburg = concentrated work for a major chunk of this week.

77 hours in 7 days. Not complaining-- I'm the one who scheduled this.

But I'm pretty tuckered out.

Good thing I like this stuff...

Tomorrow= Camping with the Girl Scouts.

Wow—What a Weekend

2007-06-19T14:28:00.000-04:00

It included several of my favorite things-- VT Hokies, Knitting and Knitters, and Baseball.

Friday:
I left work at 8:30 p.m. on Friday and made it to Blacksburg in 4 hours 10 minutes. Yes, I know….

Saturday aka Hokie Healing Day:

I woke up Saturday, got my stuff together (Chibi's, scissors, ibuprofen...) and went to Starbucks since I won't be back for awhile and didn’t want to open a new can of coffee. I noticed activity at Mosaic, and saw the crew, Gina, Sandy, Mimi, Belinda, Debbie and others loading up squares, silent auction items, goodie bags, so lent a hand take stuff to the VT Alumni center.

What a time we had!!!

Gina and her crew did a really great job setting things up. We sort of spontaneously made little work groups, and it all came together.
There was coffee-- Hurrah!!! and cookies, sandwiches, barbecue (from Top of The Stairs). YUM!!!

The goodie bags were great fun-- I wish I'd taken a picture of mine. It had a tube of Bioque cleanser and little samples of all the products to make us beautiful, a packet of coffee from Starbuck's, a Red Bull, yarn (mine was Elsebeth Lavold silk and wool in a really pretty golden tweed), "naked" yarn and Kool-Aid in Hokie colors to try one's hand at dyeing, coupons for $$ off at Firehouse Pizza and a free pass to the health club, and best of all, a 25% coupon off yarn at Mosaic. And there was probably more that I can't remember right now.

The silent auction was a kick, too. There were some amazing items-- a full set of full-sized Bioque products, numerous autographed knitting pattern books (I got one by Debbie Bliss and the "no sheep for you" book that I'd been eyeballing), some lovely Lantern Moon bags and needle cases, a Hanne Falkenberg shawl that I drooled over but forced myself to resist, and so on. There were also a bunch of door prizes. I won a gift card to the nail shop across from Mosaic which I gave to Suzanne who's going to be in a wedding next month.

Look at all these squares—Before

And After.
Go to the Mosaic site for lots more pictures.
I just had to get a picture of Debbie and me in our Hokies United t-shirts. Over 115,000 have been sold-- and if you want one, you'd better order soon...

We finished 16 of the quilts. People took the rest of the 32 home to finish, and took additional squares to make more quilts.

It was really neat to see some of my squares sewn in with others for this wonderful project. Gina had hoped for 2000 squares. They received over 6000 from all the states and something like 16 countries!

I thought about all the different knitters and crocheters who had contributed—I wonder about their lives—do they have small children? Are they great-grandmothers? Do they have professional careers? Are they the service people that make our lives livable? Did they knit all day to fill their hours, or did they squeeze in a few minutes each night before going to sleep?

Every stitch is a prayer. I wonder how many millions of stitches, and how many thousands of hours went into the contributions for the Hokie Healing project.

I met some really neat people—and unfortunately, I can’t remember all the names. Some who have remained in my brain are Kathy and her mom Charlotte, Suzanne, and Nancy (who will be moving up this way soon). (If I met you and can't remember your name, please email me-- my mind is a terrible thing to lose.....)

I took a couple of the quilts back to the condo with me to crochet around the edges. It was nice, contemplative work, fueled by a couple of glasses of wine and some movies on the tube.

Sunday
I woke up, ready to finish the second border, but needing some coffee. So I was getting ready to throw on some jeans and head down to Starbuck’s, when I remembered that they had donated 1-pot bags of coffee grounds for the goodie bags! Hurrah!!!! So I put on a movie, drank coffee, and finished quilt 2.

I spent much of Sunday at Mosaic with Mimi, and got another border completed. It was lovely to just sit and chat, crochet and watch the shop activity.

When the shop closed, I went over to campus and walked around. They’re putting in a semi-permanent memorial in front of Burress Hall that echoes the spontaneous memorial placed there by the students.

I am continually impressed by the sensitivity and respect for the students displayed by the leadership of Virginia Tech. How thoughtful to include student representation on the committee that planned this, and how they honor not only the victims, but the students by echoing the design that evolved in the location on the drillfield that has come to be so significant for so many. This memorial will be in place until a more permanent one is constructed, and the Hokie stones will be offered to the families when the semi-permanent memorial is dismantled.

After I dried some tears, I headed over to PK’s for a brew (the cold, wet kind) and some buffalo chicken. I just love that place.

When I’m in Blacksburg, it's usually pretty busy, so I took the opportunity to just drive around. The road past our condo gets really rural, really fast. I enjoyed driving along the very winding road, up and down through the mountains. There were creeks, and horses, farms, interesting little cottages and large houses… and I kept thinking of how nice it would be to live here, and wondered what it would be like to drive on this road during a blizzard in the winter.

I completed about 1-1/2 borders, then to bed.

Monday:
I woke up and finished the second border without benefit of coffee. Rugged. I took the 2 bordered quilts in to Mosaic (with the Loopy Ewe-- who is on vacation...) and then headed north.

I had a very pleasant drive up I-81 and across I-66 to meet up with friends and co-workers for the Nationals' game against Detroit. Our Nurse Executive invited a whole bunch of us-- and we had a super time. The game itself was a bit sad until the 8th inning when the Nationals got in gear, not quite grasping the game from the jaws of defeat, but coming out looking rather respectable in a 9-8 loss.

I wore my new "Knitting for Healing" t-shirt.

And then I went home.

How I Spent My Saturday

2007-06-10T11:06:00.000-04:00

Knitting in public on the Metro, and

With about 120,000 friends from all around the country.

Some of you know that I'm active with the Girl Scouts, and this year marks the 95th birthday of the largest women's volunteer organization in the world. In the past I've been a troop leader for all levels except Daisies (the kindergarteners), and now I work in positions helping the adult volunteers. One favorite service is as a "First Aider". I was a Red Cross First Aider for many years, and now I fill the role as a nurse. In addition to serving at events such as this, I go on campouts when first aid presence is needed.

Be Prepared:

A Gentle Pitch
If you're in the Nation's Capital area, and have an itching to work with the Girl Scout Organization, or if you're an ol' Girl Scout anywhere in the country who would like to register as an Alumna, go ahead and contact the council. There are opportunities to work with girls, or if that's not your thing, to do support activities, paperwork assistance, teach outdoor skills, first aid, helping area groups with money management, be the "extra adult"-- no matter what your strengths and interests, there's a place for you. And there's not a better way to be a part of helping girls become responsible adults.

Of course, we have a lot of fun, while teaching girls independence. Check out these two from Connecticut:

There's Even Room for Knitting
One of the most fun times I had was when I was a Day Camp Unit Leader for Cadettes. This can be a really tough group, and I was very concerned, and not too eager at first. Silly me. The theme for the week was women's history, and one of the activities we were encouraged to explore was learning a craft that was important years ago. Well, of course you can guess that I decided to teach the young lovelies to knit!!!

This could have gone really really well, or really really badly. In preparation, I overplanned activities so we could quickly switch away if it bombed.

I was so happy that it went well.

Being on a rather tight budget, Addi Turbo's, Lantern Moons, and even Clovers weren't in the plan. I purchased dowels-- probably about size 10's, and sharpened them in an old pencil sharpener that came with the house. This was for 15 girls, by the way. (There were a couple of blisters on my thumb and hand that are probably now healing after 5 years.) I started to sand the tips, and then decided to let the girls do it-- good decision! I think the girls took pride in working on their own tools. We glued on ends (I think they were toy car wheels from the wood section at Michaels). And then taught them to knit using donated bulky craft yarn.

I was thrilled at how they embraced the craft. By the end of the week, they even learned to cast on. I learned a lot about teaching knitting to kids, and I learned that I could love even a group of middle-school girls. The night before camp ended, I was at Michaels, and found some close-out knitting needles-- REAL needles-- for $1.00 a pair. So I was able to give each of the girls a pair, and closed out my stash of Wool-Ease.

And Then Some Grown-Up Time

It was hot and sunny. White Girl Need Shade!!! So I took the Metro back, picked up a Raspberry Crystal Lite Slurpee at the 7-11, and drove to KnitHappens where I spent a couple of hours with
Holly and Kelly. They have some cool new stuff, including some shawl pins that I am definitely going to buy several of (some wooden, some carved bone), and some nifty new yarns. I'm still working on the top for The Daughter, but I need to go in small increments because the Jaeger Aqua is a tightly spun cotton with no give that is a bit hard on the fingers for closely knit projects-- but it's gorgeous.

I've been working on the Leaf Tendril sock from Socks Soar on Two Circulars, using Ellen's Half Pint Farm sock yarn that I got at MSW. I really love the colors, and I think that the 1/2 Merino, 1/2 Tencel blend will make them durable.
The pattern isn't difficult, once you decipher Cat Bordhi's sometimes cryptic pattern-writing. This toe-up pattern is different from those I've done before, and the toes are somewhat pointy, even after I stuffed them for the picture. I have rather squared-off feet. But we'll see. I don't feel like frogging this, and I have lots of relatives and close friends with skinny, pointy feet who could use them if they don't work for me. I usually use the short-row start for Wendy's Generic Toe-Up Socks. Next time, I'll stick with a sure thing, use Wendy's toe, and continue on with the other pattern.

(Go, Wendy!!!!)

How I Won't Be Spending Next Saturday
Even though it'll be a good time.
Because I'll be helping to finish Hokie Healing blankets.

And in my life, every day is a Folk festival.

I Swore...

2007-06-07T23:31:00.000-04:00

That Paris Hilton would never take more than 2 or 3 seconds of my attention. But for crying out loud!!!!

And what hairbrained judge considers it a punishment to be stuck in her home for 40 days?

Throw me in that briar patch....

I'm So Excited- Again

2007-06-07T06:13:00.000-04:00

For several reasons:

1) Although I told you "enough already" about the bathroom, I get to use the shower today. The grout is fully cured. So that's REALLY the end of the bathroom news. (Fair warning-- there will be another bathroom renovation, but I'm pretty sure it won't be as exciting for me. At least I don't think I can afford for it to be....)

2) This arrived in the mail yesterday. It's my copy of The Book for which I authored The Chapter that I whined about so mightily a few months back. I'm Chapter 15- Capillary Blood Sampling. Aside from the fact that I am now published (in hard cover, I might add- with internal spiral binding for your reading convenience), I won't ask you to get excited about it. A bunch of my friends at work also contributed. If you're not "in the business" this book is definitely not your cup of tea. It's not only extremely esoteric, it's also a bit graphic. But as far as professional "how-to" guides go, it's pretty darn swell. It'll be something to show my grandchildren, which I hope I don't have any of very soon.

3) I was able to move some shifts next weekend, so I can go to Blacksburg to help sew together the Hokie Healing blankets. This project has helped me a lot, and helping put them together is something that I really, really wanted to do. And I was pretty devastated when I realized I was scheduled to work for the entire weekend. Some of my co-workers made switches with me-- one even working my Saturday in exchange for her Wednesday!!! I still need to work next Friday, so I'll either leave after work (7:30 p.m.) or more likely, get up around 4 a.m. and arrive around 9, in time to hit Starbucks before going to The Inn for the Great Sewing Together of the Hokie Healing Blankets.

4) I got a call at 5:15 this morning asking if I'd like to be off work today. Since I'm bumping up against my maximum number of vacation hours, it took about 3-1/2 seconds to say "You Betcha!!" I may be able to spend a bit of time at Knit Happens today. And if not today, maybe sometime over the weekend. I haven't been in for awhile because of my schedule, and I miss those chicks with sticks.

And now I think I'll go back to bed for an hour or so.

Enough Already!

2007-06-05T12:55:00.000-04:00

...about the bathroom.

OK, but first, some final detail pics. The Nurse had a REALLY good time at Bed Bath & Beyond yesterday-- found some antiqued pewter accessories on sale- (including a wastebasket!), a really nice shower curtain bar, a travertine candle base and some nice rocks, and a cinnamon and frankincense candle.

And since there's really not a proper linen closet, I found this little shelf unit for the new towels.

I do believe I've shared more than I ever thought I would about my bathroom.

Enough Already!

Ta-Dah!!!!

2007-06-03T16:20:00.000-04:00

Now, before you say "Isn't this supposed to be a knitting blog??? And she keeps writing about her bathroom???"

Let's review a few blogging things and their similarities to the bathroom project: We love to brag about FO's. I finally have one. It still needs to be blocked (translation: the grout needs to cure until Thursday before we can use the shower).

I have the obligatory shot in the bathroom mirror picture:

And I'm showing you the details of the project:

And we sometimes talk about our storage options:

Finally, the view from the throne:

Details: We contracted through FH FURR. They are a large, reputable plumbing company in Northern Virginia. We have used them for heating and air conditioning service for many years. We were initially referred to FH FURR by a doctor I worked with who highly recommended them when we'd been through the mill with several other firms trying to handle a pesky furnace.

We decided that, although we love do-it-yourself projects and we've done small bathroom do-overs in the past, we didn't have the time, energy or expertise to take on this type of project. And we really didn't have the time, energy or resources to have someone else re-do it if we screwed it up. We wanted it done right and done fast.

Planning took a couple of weeks-- meeting with the representative to discuss options and fixtures (don't you just love the antique pewter faucets and shower head and handle?), selecting tile at Mosaic Tile showroom in Lorton. Once this was done, we received our final estimate and the project was scheduled to begin within 2 weeks. The Husband and I purchased the vanity, medicine cabinet, storage cabinet and sink from Lowe's. The sink was special order, and although the delivery time was 3 weeks, we lucked out and had it in a week and a half.

Actual work in the bathroom from start to finish was 1-1/2 weeks--6 actual days of work with 4 days of the Memorial Day Weekend in the middle. The company sent us a schedule and they stuck to it. Work included: demolition & removal of old bathroom fixtures, re-plumbing & shower bed preparation (2 days);
tiling & grouting (3 days);
plumbing finish and fixture installation (1 day).

The products we chose are beautiful. The workmanship is excellent. All the workers were courteous, cleaned up after the project, and kept the noise as low as could be expected, considering the amount of sawing, pounding, hammering etc required. The time involved couldn't be beat.

Would I recommend them? Yes. Unequivocally.

The Bottom Line:
One caveat if you're on a tight budget-- make sure you understand what your costs are during the design phase. Let the company representative know what your limit is, ask questions, and make sure you understand everything he's telling you. They want your business, and they have a vested interest in making sure you're happy. They can explain what you absolutely need, and what you can get for the amount of money you're able to invest in the project. If you have some flexibility, they can also help you to understand where you can tighten up the project, and where you can splurge a bit. Of course, the labor costs will always be there.

We knew what we were getting into, and decided to go pretty big on this, enjoy the project, and not stress about what we knew would be a pretty good chunk of change. This is a capital improvement to our home. We did compromise on some aspects that saved us several thousand dollars, but still resulted in what we consider to be a spectacular little space.

When doing a project like this there are a couple of ways you can go-- you can figure "the hell with it, we're going to get everything we can dream of" which can be very dangerous. Fancy shower features can add several hundred to thousands of dollars. It took my breath away. Extra tile features can add hundreds more. These hundreds here and there add up, and knowing where to draw the line is very important. At the same time, there can be the tendency to nickel-dime the project. It's going to cost thousands, and saving $10 or even $50 on something may not be in your best interest if you won't be happy with the finished product.

We could have reduced our costs in several ways- some would result in substantial savings-- thousands, and some in more moderate savings: We could tile only the floor and shower area and paint the rest of the walls (thousands), select a less expensive tile (more thousands-ours was pretty high-end) and eliminate the little stone shelves, go less high-end on the towel bar and tp holder (several hundred), use different sink material, use different plumbing fixtures, etc. For the time being, we're forgoing the glass sliders on the shower, which will cost $1500-2000, because we have another bathroom project coming up. We'll put in a tension bar and get a really nice shower curtain. And we may decide that we like that just fine.

You get what you pay for. We got a lot. And it was money well spent.

Hokie Squares

2007-06-01T08:04:00.000-04:00

Squares for the Hokie Healing Project, that is.

I finished 9 squares, and blocked them last night. I wish I could have done more. I have plenty of orange and maroon yarn, but never enough time... The time that I was able to spend on them was soothing to my heart.

The Husband is off for Blacksburg after work today, and he'll deliver them.

The grand sewing-up of blankets will be on June 15 at the Inn at Virginia Tech. I, of course, am scheduled to work that entire weekend, but if you'll be in the area, contact Gina.

And now, off to work for the night.

Pictures of the finished bathroom tomorrow.

Almost Finished!!!

2007-05-31T14:19:00.000-04:00

The Great American Bathroom Remodel, that is...

It's not the ultimate bathroom of my dreams, let me make that clear. The UBMD would be at least 4 times this size with a very large tub having a wide tile surround that I could put plants and candles on, and a separate shower with a rain head, and two sinks and mood lighting, heated towel bars, and hell, while I'm at it, a small refrigerator that would hold a couple of bottles of champagne. (And somebody to keep the place clean would be nice, too.)

But what we have is a 5' X 8' space that needed re-plumbing, modernizing, minimal maintenance while being beautiful and functional. We weren't willing to do structural house changes, and enlarging the bathroom would have cost us what little closet space we have and/or the other bathroom-- neither being an option.

I'm happy so far, and I trust I'll be when it's finished out tomorrow.

I'm really pleased with the tile. It's a bit pricey, and we chose to tile the entire room. It feels like being in a canyon-- very organic, cool (I hope I don't regret that in the winter), and peaceful.

We're completely grouted, and the fixtures and plumbing fit-out get installed tomorrow. We are eventually planning on a glass slider for the shower, but for now we'll use a tension bar and heavy-gauge shower curtain.

Check it out (and click on the pics to enlarge-- the detail of the tile guys is pretty neat-- never thought I'd be so inspired by a "good grouting"):

The Shower- check out the little tiles on the shower floor.

The little stone shelves at each end of the shower-- and the polished stone accents at eye level (eye level for tall people, that is.)

The stone and antiqued brass towel bar and stone tp holder. (The blue tape is not a design feature-- it's just to keep the towel bar in place until the cement and grout cure.)

The grout needs to set for a week, and then we can use the shower.

Think I'll treat myself to some new towels.

Memorial Day

2007-05-28T16:41:00.000-04:00

I remember the Memorial Days of my youth. We'd go to Mass, then march in the parade-- I was with the Girl Scout group, and various brothers and sisters were in the grade school band. I don't remember it ever raining, but it was usually getting a bit warm out. We'd march to the cemetary, where there was another memorial service, and flags to place at the graves.

It was before Memorial Day became another occasion for stores to have yet another sale. We remembered those who served, and we were grateful for their sacrifices.

May was a busy month at Saints Peter and Paul elementary school. Since it was "Mary's Month" there were May altars in the classrooms, May Crowning in the church, and first communion services.

I remember the smell of lilacs. It was warm enough to walk to school, and many of the homes along the way had lilacs blooming. They were especially sweet in the morning when it was cool, and the moisture of the dew seemed to enhance the scent. Those who were, in my mind, fortunate enough to have lilacs growing in their yards would bring the fragrant blooms in for the May altars, and we'd smell the lilacs all day long. My mom wasn't fond of lilacs, and when we moved to a house that had a small patch growing at the side of the yard, they left in short order. Only later did I understand that they were in a spot that obstructed a traffic view. But she still didn't like lilacs.

Today I'm not doing anything special. I took the opportunity to read the whole paper-- not something I can frequently do. I'm cleaning out a room that needs severe de-cluttering, while listening to audiobooks and podcasts on my iPod.

And I'm lamenting the fact that the plumbing in the middle bathroom is failing, as in non-stop dripping that is impervious to normal repairs. As soon as our master bath is completed and useable, we will have to go through this again. The plumber who did the estimate for the renovation in the master bath told us that getting to, repairing and refinishing the center bathroom shower plumbing would run at least a grand. We made the decision then that we would do a limited remodel at that time (we were thinking next year) instead of basically throwing away the repair costs, since the 60's bathroom really needs an upgrade.

So today's family discussions haven't focused on cooking out, or even the philosophical aspects of Memorial Day. Instead we're discussing alternatives for paying for another bathroom renovation, and ways to treat it as a capital improvement while trying to spend less than the cost of a new car. Again.

There are many, many blessings to be counted. We have a house. We have bathrooms. We will be able to do this while still maintaining our standard of living. We are very fortunate.

But this is really inconvenient. I'm such a whiner.

Meanwhile...
More Hokie Squares in progress. The Husband will take them to Gina at Mosaic this weekend.

I wanna go to Blacksburg!!!

No Way!!!

2007-05-26T20:55:00.000-04:00

OK-- so that orange stuff just isn't going to make it as a sweater. Nor is the multicolored stuff that the stripe's made of. No Way!!! Ick!!!!

I think it may become a baby play blanket. If it doesn't blind the little dears.

I'm giving myself 2 more squares to see if that's a possiblility. Otherwise the yarn gets tossed or donated.

Life is too short.

Tomorrow (Today) It Begins

2007-05-23T01:09:00.001-04:00

The Great American Bathroom Rehab, that is.

Here are the "before" pictures. The Husband has already removed the blue tile, the white and blue flowered wallpaper, and knocked out a bit of the wall around the plumbing:

Note the snazzy floor tile. The crew is arriving at 8 am to gut the room, remove the tub, toilet, vanity, and flooring, replace the wallboard in what will be the shower area, and get ready for tiling next week.

This is going to be fun...

It IS going to be fun...

Right?

In Knitting Knews,
A Hokie Bird Hokie Square, with his friends the Mitred Squares and Mr. Diagonal Stripe.

He needs to be blocked, and he doesn't have his detail stitching around the beak and waddle area, but that'll be done soon.

And I need some instant gratification, so I'm starting on a boxy summer cardigan from bulky summer stash yarn. Here's the first bit: