The package is in the mail and on it's way to Mary. I don't think I've ever wrapped or sent a package that made me feel the way I did with this one. This could be the last thing I ever get to send to her because we just don't know how much time she has left. This makes it the most important package I've ever sent. I'm still working up the strength to call her. I don't want to regret that I didn't make one more call. But, I don't want to call her and not be able to speak because of tears and a huge knot in my throat. I'm hoping I can do it later today.
When I put the post up yesterday about Mary's hat and cowl set, and listed it on the side with all of my other 2009 finished projects, I noticed that the first project of the year was a hat for Mary and the very last one of this year is for Mary. I'm not sure what word or words to connect to that. Just that I find it interesting.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
More Hugs for Mary
Last year, just before Christmas, my friend Mary found out that she had a brain tumor and that it was cancer. It's been an up and down year for her, her family, and her friends. I got to see her when I was in Colorado this last October. I'm so glad I did. Since then, she has gone into hospice care. It's a wonderful place...I just wish she didn't have to go there.
I recently started knitting her another chemo hat with a matching cowl and, now that she's in hospice, I've been in a rush to get it done and in the mail. Here's a peek before I box it up and send it to her...
The set is made with Cotton Ease in the color "Lake 110". It was hard to get a picture that shows the true color but these are sort of close. I used size 7 needles. The hat pattern is one that I've used many times. But, I added this adorable rose that was inspired from "The Elusive Blue Rose Hat" pattern that I found on Ravelry. I made the rose separately by casting on 35 and knitting stockinette stitch for 13 rows, binding off, twirling it around, stitching it together, and then stitching it onto the hat. I really like how it turned out.
The cowl is made with the Knitpicks "Georgian Lace Cap" pattern, minus the crown shaping. I made one a few months ago and loved it so much that I decided to make another. I bet I'll make even more of them in the future.
Mary is the mom of my good friend, Tammi. We met in high school over 30 years ago. I instantly felt comfortable with them and have thought of them as family ever since. Mary is a wonderful person...strong, inspiring, positive, intelligent, fun and she has a big heart. I love her so much! I hope this small gift will help her to know that. It's a hug for you, Mary!
P.S. I just steam blocked the cowl and it looks even better. No time for pictures though. I need to get it packed up and in the mail.
I recently started knitting her another chemo hat with a matching cowl and, now that she's in hospice, I've been in a rush to get it done and in the mail. Here's a peek before I box it up and send it to her...
The set is made with Cotton Ease in the color "Lake 110". It was hard to get a picture that shows the true color but these are sort of close. I used size 7 needles. The hat pattern is one that I've used many times. But, I added this adorable rose that was inspired from "The Elusive Blue Rose Hat" pattern that I found on Ravelry. I made the rose separately by casting on 35 and knitting stockinette stitch for 13 rows, binding off, twirling it around, stitching it together, and then stitching it onto the hat. I really like how it turned out.
The cowl is made with the Knitpicks "Georgian Lace Cap" pattern, minus the crown shaping. I made one a few months ago and loved it so much that I decided to make another. I bet I'll make even more of them in the future.
Mary is the mom of my good friend, Tammi. We met in high school over 30 years ago. I instantly felt comfortable with them and have thought of them as family ever since. Mary is a wonderful person...strong, inspiring, positive, intelligent, fun and she has a big heart. I love her so much! I hope this small gift will help her to know that. It's a hug for you, Mary!
P.S. I just steam blocked the cowl and it looks even better. No time for pictures though. I need to get it packed up and in the mail.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Finishing Touches
We're making the finishing touches on our Christmas. It hasn't been easy because I haven't been into the holiday spirit the past few years. But, this year, I'm really trying to be jolly and my family has been a big help. I've grumbled from time to time but I'm working through the to-do list and even enjoying it a little. The list seemed like it was never ending but yesterday I started to see the light and now we only have a few things left to do. Whew!
The decorating is done. Last year we bought a live tree and placed it into a half wine barrel to hide the plastic pot. It looked really good! This year, we opted for the old faux fir tree and placed it on a platform inside the half wine barrel. It added height and it looks really cute. There's a little train that winds around the base and the packages.
Here's our entry area...
Our family room, aka the Texas Room, gets a little western holiday flair with cowboy boot stockings, wooden cranberry beads and candles set amongst our everyday decor of print blocks, a tooled leather clock, and our big metal Texas star (there's nothing on the floor by the fireplace because this is the room our doggy hangs out in most...so, a lot of the "decor" in this room is doggy toys. lol)...
Here's a close-up...
It's a white Christmas in our little village on top of our 110 year old upright grand piano...
My daughter even added a little "water" for the boat house and a bridge...
These are our twin snow kids. I found them a couple of years ago at JoAnn. They were the only two left and both of them were damaged. Between them they were missing a hand, skis and needed some repairs. I was able to get both of them for almost nothing. I figured I'd take parts from one to fix the other. But, I was able to save them both. They're about 30" tall.
Hubby cut a snowboard for this one and I tucked one of his arms behind to (sort of) hide that he's a missing hand. A few stitches here and there and they're good as new.
We've been working on making our Christmas cards. My daughter finished hers and just needs to mail them. Aren't they cute?!...
I had planned a much more elaborate card than I'm ending up with but I was running out of time and had to change to something quick to make. I cut, stamped, hubby colored, and now I'm gluing. They're not done yet but getting close. I figure that late is better than not at all. The caption in these will say, "Hope Your Holidays are a Hoot!"...
I still have stuff to keep me busy today and tomorrow...cards, laundry, cooking, etc. But, the huge long list has been lifted off my shoulders and I feel like I can just relax now and enjoy working on these last few things. Ahhhh!
Best wishes to you and yours. I hope you enjoy this season, no matter how you celebrate it. :-)
The decorating is done. Last year we bought a live tree and placed it into a half wine barrel to hide the plastic pot. It looked really good! This year, we opted for the old faux fir tree and placed it on a platform inside the half wine barrel. It added height and it looks really cute. There's a little train that winds around the base and the packages.
Here's our entry area...
Our family room, aka the Texas Room, gets a little western holiday flair with cowboy boot stockings, wooden cranberry beads and candles set amongst our everyday decor of print blocks, a tooled leather clock, and our big metal Texas star (there's nothing on the floor by the fireplace because this is the room our doggy hangs out in most...so, a lot of the "decor" in this room is doggy toys. lol)...
Here's a close-up...
It's a white Christmas in our little village on top of our 110 year old upright grand piano...
My daughter even added a little "water" for the boat house and a bridge...
These are our twin snow kids. I found them a couple of years ago at JoAnn. They were the only two left and both of them were damaged. Between them they were missing a hand, skis and needed some repairs. I was able to get both of them for almost nothing. I figured I'd take parts from one to fix the other. But, I was able to save them both. They're about 30" tall.
Hubby cut a snowboard for this one and I tucked one of his arms behind to (sort of) hide that he's a missing hand. A few stitches here and there and they're good as new.
We've been working on making our Christmas cards. My daughter finished hers and just needs to mail them. Aren't they cute?!...
I had planned a much more elaborate card than I'm ending up with but I was running out of time and had to change to something quick to make. I cut, stamped, hubby colored, and now I'm gluing. They're not done yet but getting close. I figure that late is better than not at all. The caption in these will say, "Hope Your Holidays are a Hoot!"...
I still have stuff to keep me busy today and tomorrow...cards, laundry, cooking, etc. But, the huge long list has been lifted off my shoulders and I feel like I can just relax now and enjoy working on these last few things. Ahhhh!
Best wishes to you and yours. I hope you enjoy this season, no matter how you celebrate it. :-)
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Blossoming Ideas
The beginnings of my fiber art love started at a very young age with crochet. In fact, I remember crocheting in a tiny rocking chair that my grandmother had bought for me. I still have that little chair and I taught my daughter to crochet when she was small enough to sit in it. Even though most of my fiber art time now is taken up with knitting, spinning, weaving and other things, I enjoy crocheting projects from time to time.
I've been itching to do some crochet lately. So, I dabbled in a bit of Tunisian Crochet and this last week I pulled out one of my all time favorite crochet patterns, "Petal Place Mats" and a big, 14 ounce ball of one of my favorite yarns, Sugar N Cream, and started making some of these...
I got this pattern from my mom over 20 years ago. I've made a LOT of these over the years and have given them away as gifts. They're useful and so much fun to make. They're quick and easy but require enough attention to make them interesting. I love that they're made with worsted weight yarn. This way, I can make a doily-like project without using tiny thread (something I don't enjoy). I think I'm going to be able to make four placemats from this one ball of yarn. The reverse single crochet edge really finishes the edges off nicely.
I had made two of these so far this week and took them to an open house at the "Knit N Stitch" yarn shop yesterday. A bunch of the ladies there went crazy for them and the shop quickly scheduled a class. I'll be teaching the two session class this January. How exciting! I also took in my "Magic Ball Shawl" to show to Sue, the person who inspired me with this idea. That was a hit too! And, we'll be having a Magic Ball workshop/fun day on Superbowl Sunday.
My arm still hurts but it is improving and I'm so happy to be able to knit and crochet again. I had so much fun yesterday and with these classes scheduled, 2010 may be blossoming into a beautiful new year! :-)
I've been itching to do some crochet lately. So, I dabbled in a bit of Tunisian Crochet and this last week I pulled out one of my all time favorite crochet patterns, "Petal Place Mats" and a big, 14 ounce ball of one of my favorite yarns, Sugar N Cream, and started making some of these...
I got this pattern from my mom over 20 years ago. I've made a LOT of these over the years and have given them away as gifts. They're useful and so much fun to make. They're quick and easy but require enough attention to make them interesting. I love that they're made with worsted weight yarn. This way, I can make a doily-like project without using tiny thread (something I don't enjoy). I think I'm going to be able to make four placemats from this one ball of yarn. The reverse single crochet edge really finishes the edges off nicely.
I had made two of these so far this week and took them to an open house at the "Knit N Stitch" yarn shop yesterday. A bunch of the ladies there went crazy for them and the shop quickly scheduled a class. I'll be teaching the two session class this January. How exciting! I also took in my "Magic Ball Shawl" to show to Sue, the person who inspired me with this idea. That was a hit too! And, we'll be having a Magic Ball workshop/fun day on Superbowl Sunday.
My arm still hurts but it is improving and I'm so happy to be able to knit and crochet again. I had so much fun yesterday and with these classes scheduled, 2010 may be blossoming into a beautiful new year! :-)
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Favorite Christmas Ornaments
Last Christmas I enjoyed seeing some of the ornaments that other bloggers shared on their blogs and shared a few of my own. I thought it would be fun to do that again this year and share a few more of my favorites. I love seeing the various ornaments that people collect. They can be so unique, beautiful, fun, and most of them have some kind of story.
This is one of the first ornaments my husband and I got as a couple. It's a tandem bike in the same red color we had on our first tandem. We rode that thing so much. We even rode it a lot when I was pregnant with our daughter...until I was too big to fit between the seat and the handlebars. I love this one! It's about five inches wide by about three inches tall.
Our daughter is a harpist and we're always on the look out for harp ornaments. They're very hard to find! Sometimes a few years go by that we don't find any. Once in a while we're lucky and find more than one in a year. This is one of my favorites...
I love crafting and find it hard to say "no" to trying just about any kind. That includes tole painting, something I did a lot of for a while. Here's a hiking Santa I painted years ago. He's about nine inches tall.
Here's one we bought a few years ago at "Downtown Disney" in the "Department 56" shop. It's an Airedale in PJ's and slippers. So cute!
I love the feathers and the little pom poms on the slippers.
Do you collect ornaments? What are some of your favorites?
This is one of the first ornaments my husband and I got as a couple. It's a tandem bike in the same red color we had on our first tandem. We rode that thing so much. We even rode it a lot when I was pregnant with our daughter...until I was too big to fit between the seat and the handlebars. I love this one! It's about five inches wide by about three inches tall.
Our daughter is a harpist and we're always on the look out for harp ornaments. They're very hard to find! Sometimes a few years go by that we don't find any. Once in a while we're lucky and find more than one in a year. This is one of my favorites...
I love crafting and find it hard to say "no" to trying just about any kind. That includes tole painting, something I did a lot of for a while. Here's a hiking Santa I painted years ago. He's about nine inches tall.
Here's one we bought a few years ago at "Downtown Disney" in the "Department 56" shop. It's an Airedale in PJ's and slippers. So cute!
I love the feathers and the little pom poms on the slippers.
Do you collect ornaments? What are some of your favorites?
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Ramblings
It's been a weird, wonderful and wacky week. How about a rambling post about some of the things going on...
1. The first acupuncture treatment made a big difference and I was finally able to sleep. Pain hasn't been keeping me awake at night. Ahhhh! That's nice. And, I haven't been getting up with bad pain in my arms. The pain isn't completely gone though and I've been taking it easy. I had a second treatment this week and noticed some more improvement but not as much as the first week. My medical doctor finally referred me for acupuncture and I'll get to go see the acupuncturist at my HMO (I had no idea they had one). That will be a lot cheaper. In the meantime, the high dollar treatments should get me by. I also asked for and got a referral to physical therapy in hopes of learning how to strengthen my arms without hurting myself again.
2. I went to the chiropractor today for an adjustment. Ahhhhh! I feel so much better. And....my elbows may end up better too! Who knew a chiropractor could pop elbows?! He explained how the large bone on the bottom part of the arm can slightly separate out from the joint and cause pain. The adjustment didn't hurt. My not so bad elbow feels like it's been greased and bends so smoothly now. Ahhh! The other one feels about the same right now. But, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. You never know!
3. We've been having winter like weather! That's amazing! It usually doesn't get all that cold here until January or February and sometimes not then either. We've even been getting rain and lots of it! Yay! We need it so bad. We have another set of storms heading our way with a forecast of rain starting tonight and going through the weekend. Bring it on!
4. I learned an important lesson on Tuesday...even when the garage door sounds like it went all the way up and stopped, check to be sure! I was heading out to do a little Christmas shopping and ended up backing into the door. Ugh! The SUV is fine but the door seemed to be in pretty bad shape. It looks like the cable came off on one side and caused it to jam so it couldn't go up all the way. Luckily, my husband was able to fix it. He's amazing!
5. Yesterday my husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. We didn't make any big plans...although we kind of used our recent Colorado trip as a pre-celebration. We went to Encinitas (San Diego County) yesterday and had breakfast at the Potato Shack (Yum!), enjoyed looking at the big waves coming in this week (so pretty!), a little garden walk (that's where the Koi picture was taken), did a little shopping, and went out for a nice dinner. We both feel so lucky because being married to each other has been way better than we ever thought marriage could be. He's awesome!
Saturday, December 5, 2009
I Won!
I won some yarn...
A local yarn shop, Daily Fiber, has stitch nights every week. But, the first Friday of each month is a little special. They feature a new yarn or product, have a sale, drawings, and there is often food...there were a lot of baked goods last night...yum! I didn't take any knitting with me last night, as I'm still resting my arm to help it heal. But, I had so much fun visiting with all the nice ladies that came. And, it was a fun surprise to win some yarn. The colors in it are pretty. I'm thinking it might make a pretty little shawlette or something. I can't wait to get back into knitting!
A local yarn shop, Daily Fiber, has stitch nights every week. But, the first Friday of each month is a little special. They feature a new yarn or product, have a sale, drawings, and there is often food...there were a lot of baked goods last night...yum! I didn't take any knitting with me last night, as I'm still resting my arm to help it heal. But, I had so much fun visiting with all the nice ladies that came. And, it was a fun surprise to win some yarn. The colors in it are pretty. I'm thinking it might make a pretty little shawlette or something. I can't wait to get back into knitting!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Needles of a Different Kind
I've experienced a lot of different kinds of needles in my life. Some I like...sewing and knitting. Others...like shots, IV, blood...not so much. Today, I had a totally new needle experience...acupuncture!
The experience was very different than I had expected. I thought I'd go in and lay on a table and have needles placed in me at various spots on my body and just lay there for a while. It was nothing like that. And, I wasn't afraid of being poked...which is kind of weird...but good, since I was about to be poked a lot. The needles are very thin, about the size of a human hair. And, they don't really hurt going in.
The acupuncturist located the pain in my elbows and placed needles in those spots. Then, she had me move my arms around to help in circulation and releasing the pain. That was a surpise! Move my arms with needles in them?! Yikes! But, it was okay. She continued this process, taking needles out, putting others in, and having me move my arms until I had relief. I think I got a funny look on my face when I did feel the relief and she knew exactly what had happened and said that a lot of people say it's "crazy" how it works. I agree.
I can't say that it was a painless process because it wasn't. There were a couple of times that the needle was a little deeper than the pain spot and when I'd move it would hurt in a strange way that I can't describe. But, she'd pull it out a bit and sometimes that would do the trick. Other times she had to try another place. She also did some "cupping" (a little suction device) on my really bad elbow to help bring the pain spot up to a place she could access. That didn't hurt. But, I have a few little circles on my elbows. lol
My pain is significantly less but not completely gone. Since I injured my elbow a few months ago and the pain has been building, it may take a couple of treatments to get full relief. I'm feeling hopeful. It was hurting pretty bad earlier today. And, my right arm has had to compensate for the other one so much that it was hurting a lot more today too. I tried to do a little knitting this morning (before the treatment) but had to stop. Compared to this morning, my elbows are a lot better. My next treatment will be on Monday. I'll keep ya'll posted as to how it goes.
Thanks to JoMamma and Jennifer for the advice to try acupuncture. It's something I've been interested in for years. I'm not sure why I hadn't thought about trying it for this. I researched it online after both of you recommended it and couldn't believe all the great testimonials and info I found! Thank you! :-)
The experience was very different than I had expected. I thought I'd go in and lay on a table and have needles placed in me at various spots on my body and just lay there for a while. It was nothing like that. And, I wasn't afraid of being poked...which is kind of weird...but good, since I was about to be poked a lot. The needles are very thin, about the size of a human hair. And, they don't really hurt going in.
The acupuncturist located the pain in my elbows and placed needles in those spots. Then, she had me move my arms around to help in circulation and releasing the pain. That was a surpise! Move my arms with needles in them?! Yikes! But, it was okay. She continued this process, taking needles out, putting others in, and having me move my arms until I had relief. I think I got a funny look on my face when I did feel the relief and she knew exactly what had happened and said that a lot of people say it's "crazy" how it works. I agree.
I can't say that it was a painless process because it wasn't. There were a couple of times that the needle was a little deeper than the pain spot and when I'd move it would hurt in a strange way that I can't describe. But, she'd pull it out a bit and sometimes that would do the trick. Other times she had to try another place. She also did some "cupping" (a little suction device) on my really bad elbow to help bring the pain spot up to a place she could access. That didn't hurt. But, I have a few little circles on my elbows. lol
My pain is significantly less but not completely gone. Since I injured my elbow a few months ago and the pain has been building, it may take a couple of treatments to get full relief. I'm feeling hopeful. It was hurting pretty bad earlier today. And, my right arm has had to compensate for the other one so much that it was hurting a lot more today too. I tried to do a little knitting this morning (before the treatment) but had to stop. Compared to this morning, my elbows are a lot better. My next treatment will be on Monday. I'll keep ya'll posted as to how it goes.
Thanks to JoMamma and Jennifer for the advice to try acupuncture. It's something I've been interested in for years. I'm not sure why I hadn't thought about trying it for this. I researched it online after both of you recommended it and couldn't believe all the great testimonials and info I found! Thank you! :-)
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Road Blocks
I'm still here! The good news is that my creative mojo is returning. The bad news is that I injured my arm a few months ago and it's keeping me from enjoying my newly returned mojo. :-(
A few months ago I decided to get more serious about exercise and added weights to my morning exercise routine of walking/running. Well, being in the worst shape I've ever been in, I had to use the lowest settings and weights that we had (pitiful, I know). I ended up pulling a tendon in my left elbow. I quickly stopped the weights and hoped that time would heal it. Well, it got worse and I decided to see a doctor. Turns out it's tendonitis and he prescribed meds and gave me a brace to wear. He said it would be back to normal in a week or two. It's been three weeks and it's worse. Now, it hurts almost all the time...even when I pick up something light like a throw pillow or sit down to watch TV! :-( It even hurts when I knit! No fair! I'm waiting to hear back from him to see what I should try next.
On the bright side, I have to take it easy. On the not-so-bright side, I have to take it easy. I have so much I want and need to do! This is frustrating, to say the least. I'm hopeful I'll find a way to get it healed so I can jump back into life, full steam, enjoying my newly returned mojo to it's fullest!
A few months ago I decided to get more serious about exercise and added weights to my morning exercise routine of walking/running. Well, being in the worst shape I've ever been in, I had to use the lowest settings and weights that we had (pitiful, I know). I ended up pulling a tendon in my left elbow. I quickly stopped the weights and hoped that time would heal it. Well, it got worse and I decided to see a doctor. Turns out it's tendonitis and he prescribed meds and gave me a brace to wear. He said it would be back to normal in a week or two. It's been three weeks and it's worse. Now, it hurts almost all the time...even when I pick up something light like a throw pillow or sit down to watch TV! :-( It even hurts when I knit! No fair! I'm waiting to hear back from him to see what I should try next.
On the bright side, I have to take it easy. On the not-so-bright side, I have to take it easy. I have so much I want and need to do! This is frustrating, to say the least. I'm hopeful I'll find a way to get it healed so I can jump back into life, full steam, enjoying my newly returned mojo to it's fullest!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Deutsche Nahrung und Spaß (German Food and Fun)
I love exploring and finding new and unexpected things to see and do. I don't limit it to vacation time...it's any time. Life is short and I want to see and do all that I can. I've been asked many times how I know my way around so many towns and about so many places. I guess it's because exploring is a way of life for me. I don't always take the roads most traveled. When I do, I keep exploring the area to see what else I can find. When I hear about something new and I have a chance to go see it, I do.
That's what happened last Thursday. My parents had some long time friends visiting for a few days and my daughter and I went to see them. We all drove to Calimesa, California to see something I'd never heard of. It's a little shopping center with a clock tower and characters that come out at noon with music and a little story. People gather around the tower just before noon and wait. Just after the clock strikes 12, doors open and characters start coming out. First, the two side ones come out to blow their trumpets. Then, the king and queen come out and talk.
Rumor has it that the creator of this has some tie to Disney. I can't confirm that but the faces of these characters did resemble the Disney style. It was a little hokey but I bet kids would love it and I'm glad I got to see it.
Afterwards, we went next door to George's Market. It's a German deli, market, and restaurant.
This was fun! My grandmother (my dad's mom) was 100% German and I use to enjoy German food whenever I saw her. She passed away a long time ago and I haven't had much German food since. So, this was a real treat. The meat counter ran the length of one side of the store. Here's one small section...
They had German cheese...
And lots of other things. I'm not sure what it all was but it would be fun to find out and try it...
We all enjoyed sandwiches with German meats, German potato salad, and the best sauerkraut I've ever had. Yummm! I bought a bunch of German foods from the market to take home and enjoy. I had a crockpot of beef stewing at home and enjoyed it that night with spaetzle. It wasn't like grandma's but it was good.
I use to make springerle cookies with my mom every year for Christmas when I was growing up. We've been thinking about making them again. This little German outing just may be the inspiration we need to make them this year. Mom already has her springerle rolling pin out and ready.
That's what happened last Thursday. My parents had some long time friends visiting for a few days and my daughter and I went to see them. We all drove to Calimesa, California to see something I'd never heard of. It's a little shopping center with a clock tower and characters that come out at noon with music and a little story. People gather around the tower just before noon and wait. Just after the clock strikes 12, doors open and characters start coming out. First, the two side ones come out to blow their trumpets. Then, the king and queen come out and talk.
Rumor has it that the creator of this has some tie to Disney. I can't confirm that but the faces of these characters did resemble the Disney style. It was a little hokey but I bet kids would love it and I'm glad I got to see it.
Afterwards, we went next door to George's Market. It's a German deli, market, and restaurant.
This was fun! My grandmother (my dad's mom) was 100% German and I use to enjoy German food whenever I saw her. She passed away a long time ago and I haven't had much German food since. So, this was a real treat. The meat counter ran the length of one side of the store. Here's one small section...
They had German cheese...
And lots of other things. I'm not sure what it all was but it would be fun to find out and try it...
We all enjoyed sandwiches with German meats, German potato salad, and the best sauerkraut I've ever had. Yummm! I bought a bunch of German foods from the market to take home and enjoy. I had a crockpot of beef stewing at home and enjoyed it that night with spaetzle. It wasn't like grandma's but it was good.
I use to make springerle cookies with my mom every year for Christmas when I was growing up. We've been thinking about making them again. This little German outing just may be the inspiration we need to make them this year. Mom already has her springerle rolling pin out and ready.
Monday, November 16, 2009
I Like Lichen
My family and I love to visit the Santa Rosa Plateau for hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding...but mostly because of the gorgeous views and the ever changing and always amazing show that nature provides. From the green in winter to the wildflowers in spring and even the dry, brown seasons of summer and fall...there are wonderful and surprising things to see all year.
The oak trees are extra lush and green this year. Right now, the oak trees and scrub oak bushes are loaded with acorns in various shapes and sizes. There are even a few wildflowers peeking out here and there. And, this year, there is more lichen than I've ever seen before. The conditions must be perfect because there are areas along the trail where it seems like it's covering almost every bit of shrubbery. It's beautiful and colorful (click on the pictures for a larger/closer look)...
It varies in size and shape. Some of it is big and bold...
Some is tiny and delicate...
I did a little online reading about lichen and found out that it's not just a fungus but also an algae and sometimes a bacteria. Together, they help each other thrive. This relationship, called mutualism, is what allows them to produce these shapes and colors that they could not do alone.
Nature is amazing!
The oak trees are extra lush and green this year. Right now, the oak trees and scrub oak bushes are loaded with acorns in various shapes and sizes. There are even a few wildflowers peeking out here and there. And, this year, there is more lichen than I've ever seen before. The conditions must be perfect because there are areas along the trail where it seems like it's covering almost every bit of shrubbery. It's beautiful and colorful (click on the pictures for a larger/closer look)...
It varies in size and shape. Some of it is big and bold...
Some is tiny and delicate...
I did a little online reading about lichen and found out that it's not just a fungus but also an algae and sometimes a bacteria. Together, they help each other thrive. This relationship, called mutualism, is what allows them to produce these shapes and colors that they could not do alone.
Nature is amazing!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
The Case of the Missing Mojo
Seems that my knitting mojo has suddenly and unexpectedly gone on vacation. It's odd how that happens. And, the symptoms and and reasons can vary. There are times when I just don't feel like knitting (this is rare, but it does happen on occasion). Other times it just seems like every project I try won't work. Almost like having all my years of learning and practice fly out the window. Other times, it's a case of pouring over patterns for days and sometimes weeks trying to find one that says, "Pick me! I'm the one!" and not being able to find one that "speaks" to me. Along with that, it can often be that I'm trying to find a pattern to match some yarn in my stash, to do a little stash busting, save some bucks, and feel proud that I made something fabulous with something I already had. This time, I think that almost all of the above have caused my mojo to leave. Except that I really want to knit! I sure hope it comes back soon. Christmas is coming and I don't have much time!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Fall Fun
Last weekend we had planned to go camping in the mountains near Idyllwild but the weather forecast said it was going to be quite chilly and we decided not to go. That worked out well though and gave us the opportunity to experience the silent film festival on Friday night, hiking on Saturday, and meeting up with some friends to hike with our dogs on Sunday.
The weather forecast turned out to be a bit off though. We know this because we went up to Idyllwild on Saturday for our hike and it was warm and beautiful! The skies were sooo blue and the fall colors were such a treat.
Golds and yellows and oh so pretty!
Salsa was a great little hiker. She was even careful to read the signs and follow the rules... :-)
We went on an easy hike on Sunday and she was kind of tired from the steep and long hike the day before. But, she loves to go "bye bye" and wouldn't have missed it for anything!
The weather forecast turned out to be a bit off though. We know this because we went up to Idyllwild on Saturday for our hike and it was warm and beautiful! The skies were sooo blue and the fall colors were such a treat.
Golds and yellows and oh so pretty!
Salsa was a great little hiker. She was even careful to read the signs and follow the rules... :-)
We went on an easy hike on Sunday and she was kind of tired from the steep and long hike the day before. But, she loves to go "bye bye" and wouldn't have missed it for anything!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Fun Times & Fun Finds
This past weekend was the annual rummage sale at my parents' church. I try to go every year. I don't always find things. But, over the years I've found some great stuff...yarn ball winders, cones of yarn, an umbrella swift and much more. It's become an annual event that I look forward to. I try to get there as soon as it opens, shop, and afterwards I sit and visit with my parents and an aunt an uncle over coffee and treats in their little make-shift cafe. My daughter was able to go with me this year. That added even more fun to the day.
I found a few fun things this year and spent a total of about $9. I found a brand new row/knitting counter for only .10 cents! It was in the original, un-opened package. This might come in handy.
I found something I find almost every year...more buttons! I have a growing collection and with this find my jar of colored buttons is full. I need to either transfer the color ones to a larger jar, or separate out a color, style or shape. I've already separated out the white ones. I love buttons!
I found this 26"x26" rooster painting (not a print) for only $5! The rooster is cute, the flowers are great, and the red is perfect for our home. I love it!
I bought a ceramic, red popcorn bucket...brand new with the store stickers and never used. We love making popcorn and experimenting with various herbs and spices to flavor it. It will come in quite handy. It was only $3! I also bought a few kitchen gadgets (some in their original, unopened packages - I love that!) for practically nothing.
After the rummage sale, my daughter and I went out to lunch and then antique store shopping. I didn't buy anything but I found something I realllllly wanted. I have a collection of old glove forms and hands and this one is the biggest I've ever seen...
It would be such an awesome addition to my collection. But...it was being sold with the old telephone and the handset of the phone was glued to the hand. They told me that it was used as a prop at a TGIF restaurant. The vendor wouldn't budge on separating the two and with the phone it's a LOT more than I wanted to spend. So, I had to leave without it. :-(
Here's another fun find that I bought last month...a knitted doily in a gorgeous, rich, spicy brown color. So pretty! It was only $6! I love finding beautiful bargains like this!
This was a great day but it didn't stop there. That evening, my husband, daughter, and I drove down to Encinitas for dinner and the "Mary Pickford Silent Movie Festival". They showed Mary Pickford's first movie and her last and had a reknowned pianist playing live music throughout both movies. It sounded like a fun thing to do but we had no idea it would be as much fun as it was. After the show, everyone cheered and left with huge smiles on their faces. What a great experience! And, what an awesome day!
I found a few fun things this year and spent a total of about $9. I found a brand new row/knitting counter for only .10 cents! It was in the original, un-opened package. This might come in handy.
I found something I find almost every year...more buttons! I have a growing collection and with this find my jar of colored buttons is full. I need to either transfer the color ones to a larger jar, or separate out a color, style or shape. I've already separated out the white ones. I love buttons!
I found this 26"x26" rooster painting (not a print) for only $5! The rooster is cute, the flowers are great, and the red is perfect for our home. I love it!
I bought a ceramic, red popcorn bucket...brand new with the store stickers and never used. We love making popcorn and experimenting with various herbs and spices to flavor it. It will come in quite handy. It was only $3! I also bought a few kitchen gadgets (some in their original, unopened packages - I love that!) for practically nothing.
After the rummage sale, my daughter and I went out to lunch and then antique store shopping. I didn't buy anything but I found something I realllllly wanted. I have a collection of old glove forms and hands and this one is the biggest I've ever seen...
It would be such an awesome addition to my collection. But...it was being sold with the old telephone and the handset of the phone was glued to the hand. They told me that it was used as a prop at a TGIF restaurant. The vendor wouldn't budge on separating the two and with the phone it's a LOT more than I wanted to spend. So, I had to leave without it. :-(
Here's another fun find that I bought last month...a knitted doily in a gorgeous, rich, spicy brown color. So pretty! It was only $6! I love finding beautiful bargains like this!
This was a great day but it didn't stop there. That evening, my husband, daughter, and I drove down to Encinitas for dinner and the "Mary Pickford Silent Movie Festival". They showed Mary Pickford's first movie and her last and had a reknowned pianist playing live music throughout both movies. It sounded like a fun thing to do but we had no idea it would be as much fun as it was. After the show, everyone cheered and left with huge smiles on their faces. What a great experience! And, what an awesome day!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Fiber Festival Fun
On November first I went with a couple of friends to the Southern California Handweavers Guild Annual Fiber Festival. I try to go to it every year. It's not huge, like some that I see in the north east, but it's pretty special because events like this are extremely rare in Southern California. There were handwoven items on display, demonstrations, and vendors selling rovings, yarn, bags, tools, beads, jewelry, books, etc. It seemed busier this year than ever before and vendors seemed to be making a lot of sales. If I had been on the lookout for beautiful yarn or roving, I would have come home with many. There were so many gorgeous choices. But, I was on the lookout this year for some specific yarns on cones for weaving and didn't find what I was looking for.
I was having so much fun looking around that I kept forgetting to take pictures. Here's one that I took with my phone. This vendor had several shelves like this, filled with so many gorgeous colors of this super fine yarn. The sample socks were the thinnest, finest handknit socks I'd ever seen and felt. It was a fun day! And, as usual, I'm already looking forward to next year's event.
I was having so much fun looking around that I kept forgetting to take pictures. Here's one that I took with my phone. This vendor had several shelves like this, filled with so many gorgeous colors of this super fine yarn. The sample socks were the thinnest, finest handknit socks I'd ever seen and felt. It was a fun day! And, as usual, I'm already looking forward to next year's event.
Monday, November 9, 2009
It's all about the Soup...and a Little Painting Fun!
My life has been really busy lately...in a good way. I've been working out more, going out and doing more, playing more and having loads of fun. That explains why my blog has been a bit neglected lately, with very few posts. I'm hoping to squeeze in a few posts this week to catch up on some of the fun.
My husband, daughter and I use to go fairly often to a local place called "Painted Earth" to paint pottery. Life got so busy for a few years that we haven't had a chance to go in quite a while. We sure missed it. Recently, my daughter and I decided to spend an afternoon there. We're really out of painting practice but we had a lot of fun.
We ended up spending over five hours in the studio.
Here's her finished bowl, after firing...
Here's the inside. I love the sunny yellow and all the pretty colors she used...
It takes imagination to visualize how it will look after firing because the colors change so much. Here's a picture of my bowl before...
And, here it is after firing...
My husband painted this bowl a few years ago. I love it!...
My husband loves to use his bowl whenever we make one of our favorite recipes, "Sopa de Tortilla". I saw this recipe on a Martha Stewart show over 10 years ago, we tried it, and it has been a family favorite ever since. His bowl works out so perfectly for this soup that we wanted bowls of our own. The large size is great because this soup is filled with garnishes...avocado, queso fresco cheese, finely chopped/shredded radishes, pasilla chile, tortilla strips, and the very important squeeze of lime. I searched online for the recipe to provide a link. This RECIPE looks like the one. It just doesn't include all of the garnishes. We even add chicken sometimes. We're planning to make Sopa this week to try out our new bowls. I can't wait! Yum!
My husband, daughter and I use to go fairly often to a local place called "Painted Earth" to paint pottery. Life got so busy for a few years that we haven't had a chance to go in quite a while. We sure missed it. Recently, my daughter and I decided to spend an afternoon there. We're really out of painting practice but we had a lot of fun.
We ended up spending over five hours in the studio.
Here's her finished bowl, after firing...
Here's the inside. I love the sunny yellow and all the pretty colors she used...It takes imagination to visualize how it will look after firing because the colors change so much. Here's a picture of my bowl before...
And, here it is after firing...
My husband painted this bowl a few years ago. I love it!...
My husband loves to use his bowl whenever we make one of our favorite recipes, "Sopa de Tortilla". I saw this recipe on a Martha Stewart show over 10 years ago, we tried it, and it has been a family favorite ever since. His bowl works out so perfectly for this soup that we wanted bowls of our own. The large size is great because this soup is filled with garnishes...avocado, queso fresco cheese, finely chopped/shredded radishes, pasilla chile, tortilla strips, and the very important squeeze of lime. I searched online for the recipe to provide a link. This RECIPE looks like the one. It just doesn't include all of the garnishes. We even add chicken sometimes. We're planning to make Sopa this week to try out our new bowls. I can't wait! Yum!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Winner is...
Marie at Sel & Poivre! Congratulations! She has won the "Find a Cure" knitting needles and the beaded stitch markers for one of her entries into the "Pink Clallenge".
The winner was chosen the old fashioned way...I wrote each entry on a piece of paper, folded each one, put them into a container, shook them all around, hubby closed his eyes, and pulled out a winner.
Most of the entries were for getting mammograms. Only two were for pink projects. You can see them HERE and HERE. There is a picture of each project, info, and a link to each of their blogs, "Sel & Poivre" and "Facts From Fact Woman".
Thanks, to everyone who entered. It was great hearing from all of you (I love getting your comments) and it was fun seeing your pink projects. And, most importantly, how great that so many of you are taking charge of your health and getting your regular mammogram screenings! :-)
The winner was chosen the old fashioned way...I wrote each entry on a piece of paper, folded each one, put them into a container, shook them all around, hubby closed his eyes, and pulled out a winner.
Most of the entries were for getting mammograms. Only two were for pink projects. You can see them HERE and HERE. There is a picture of each project, info, and a link to each of their blogs, "Sel & Poivre" and "Facts From Fact Woman".
Thanks, to everyone who entered. It was great hearing from all of you (I love getting your comments) and it was fun seeing your pink projects. And, most importantly, how great that so many of you are taking charge of your health and getting your regular mammogram screenings! :-)
Friday, October 30, 2009
The Magic of Blocking
A couple of months ago, I bought a beautiful hank of "Aslan Trends Class" and envisioned knitting something lacey with it. Soon after, I found a pattern on Ravelry that seemed like the perfect match. It's called "Cream of Spinach"...a funny name...but a great little pattern. I quickly renamed my project, "Rasberry Cream". It's simple, but gave me more practice and confidence as I tip-toe slowly into the world of "lace" knitting. I liked it as I was knitting but I was hoping that blocking would make it better. But, I guess I really had no idea what blocking could do to this. Here's the before...
And, check out the after...
I'm stunned and amazed! I can't believe the transformation. It's incredible. I love the end result...lacey, pretty, soft...it's going to make a great gift. However, I don't plan on buying this yarn again as it's splitty and snags verrrry easily. The scarf has some snags on it that I just can't get back into place. It's so pretty though that I'm hoping the recipient won't care or notice.
I don't really understand how this works...why it stays this way after blocking but...I'm so glad I made this project and invested in a set of blocking wires. Because, now, I can't wait to try something else lacey and watch another transformation!
And, check out the after...
I'm stunned and amazed! I can't believe the transformation. It's incredible. I love the end result...lacey, pretty, soft...it's going to make a great gift. However, I don't plan on buying this yarn again as it's splitty and snags verrrry easily. The scarf has some snags on it that I just can't get back into place. It's so pretty though that I'm hoping the recipient won't care or notice.
I don't really understand how this works...why it stays this way after blocking but...I'm so glad I made this project and invested in a set of blocking wires. Because, now, I can't wait to try something else lacey and watch another transformation!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
More Pink...
Here's another entry for the "Pink Challenge"... pretty, pink slippers made by Margaret from the "Facts From Fact Woman" blog...
Aren't they cute?! She made them for her daughter and she says she'll be posting a pattern for them very soon. I love the little button closures and black accents. Very cute! Thanks, Margaret, for entering.
There are only two more days to enter. For details, click HERE and HERE.
Aren't they cute?! She made them for her daughter and she says she'll be posting a pattern for them very soon. I love the little button closures and black accents. Very cute! Thanks, Margaret, for entering.
There are only two more days to enter. For details, click HERE and HERE.
Three More Days...
...to get your entries in for the "Pink Challenge"!
I've received several entries so far of readers who have had their mammograms. Awesome job, taking charge of your health! Here's the first entry of something crafted in pink. It's a beautiful pink scarf made by Marie at Sel & Poivre...
She has made a tradition of knitting a pink scarf every October and donating them to be given to someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. What a great way to let someone know they are being thought of. I think it could feel like a hug to that person. We all need those...especially, in that situation. You can see more pictures of this pretty scarf and read all the details about it in her BLOG POST. She will receive two entries for her scarf, one for making it and one for donating it. Thanks, Marie, for entering. :-)
Be sure to get your entries in. I'll be drawing the winner on Sunday, November first for the beautiful "Find a Cure" knitting needles and the pretty, beaded stitch markers.
I've received several entries so far of readers who have had their mammograms. Awesome job, taking charge of your health! Here's the first entry of something crafted in pink. It's a beautiful pink scarf made by Marie at Sel & Poivre...
She has made a tradition of knitting a pink scarf every October and donating them to be given to someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. What a great way to let someone know they are being thought of. I think it could feel like a hug to that person. We all need those...especially, in that situation. You can see more pictures of this pretty scarf and read all the details about it in her BLOG POST. She will receive two entries for her scarf, one for making it and one for donating it. Thanks, Marie, for entering. :-)
Be sure to get your entries in. I'll be drawing the winner on Sunday, November first for the beautiful "Find a Cure" knitting needles and the pretty, beaded stitch markers.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Hairy Halloween
Today was the annual "Night of the Living Airedale Party", a local Halloween party for Airedales and their owners. It's an event we look forward to every year that is graciously hosted by the wonderful people that own Liebe Aire Acres. We've been going for years and always have a great time...in rain, heat, and...today's weather...wind!...
Things kept blowing off the tables, costumes were blowing in the wind, and food was even blowing off our plates. But, we still managed to have a good time. This year, Salsa was a "SaloonDale". We spent a lot of time this week crafting her costume...complete with a ruffles, a bustle, bow, criss-cross ribbons to look like a corset, a feathered headpiece, and fishnet stockings (that got a lot of laughs and pictures), and the red fabric has little black paw prints on it. Here she is dancing around in her costume...
A close-up of our little sweetie...
Part of the annual event is picture taking time with each family and their 'dale(s). Here's me and Salsa...
We didn't win any prizes this year for Salsa's costume but the competition was fierce! I took a lot of pictures but the wind had the dogs dancing around so much that it was hard to get good shots of them. But, I did my best. Here are some of the good ones... Meet "Carmen MiranDale", the winner for "Best Costume"...
Isn't she adorable?! Her 'mom' did an awesome job of making her costume. I love the headpiece!!! And, look at this colorful dress...
Here she is with her whole costume, posing for pictures...
The prize for "Best Theme" went to the "Wicked Witch and Her Flying Monkeys" (2 'dales in monkey costumes with wings and the owner dressed like a wicked witch). Unfortantely, I didn't get a picture of them. But, I got a picture of the winner for "Funniest Costume"..."Bernie Madoff"...
The winner for "Scarriest Costume" was one of Salsa's old buddies, Norman. He was a pirate!...
There were around 30 airedales at the party and lots of great costumes. Here are some more cute ones...an "Aire Mail Carrier"...
What a cutie!
There were "ChippenDales"...Notice the one on the right bracing himself for the next wind gust and the ear blowing on the dale on the left...
These two dales were ready for a day on the water...complete with floatation vests and sunglasses...
They eventually ditched their water vests but this one kept her shades on throughout the whole party!...
What would a party be without a super hero?! Meet "Super Dale"...
We enjoyed many of the things we do every year at this party, including: costumes and a parade; a raffle to benefit Airedale Rescue (they made almost $400 this year); a pot luck and barbeque; a treat table for the doggies; and a generous gift bag that was given to each family. Here's all the goodies we brought home today from the raffle and our party bag...a calendar, cookbook, toys, treats, coupons, a frisbee...
Unfortunately, because of the wind, the doggy dancing (Salsa's good at that) and the "Grueling Games" (games and contests with our dogs) were cancelled. But, we all had such a great time visiting with the other Airedales and their owners and we look forward to getting together again next year.
Happy Halloween! :-D
Things kept blowing off the tables, costumes were blowing in the wind, and food was even blowing off our plates. But, we still managed to have a good time. This year, Salsa was a "SaloonDale". We spent a lot of time this week crafting her costume...complete with a ruffles, a bustle, bow, criss-cross ribbons to look like a corset, a feathered headpiece, and fishnet stockings (that got a lot of laughs and pictures), and the red fabric has little black paw prints on it. Here she is dancing around in her costume...
A close-up of our little sweetie...
Part of the annual event is picture taking time with each family and their 'dale(s). Here's me and Salsa...
We didn't win any prizes this year for Salsa's costume but the competition was fierce! I took a lot of pictures but the wind had the dogs dancing around so much that it was hard to get good shots of them. But, I did my best. Here are some of the good ones... Meet "Carmen MiranDale", the winner for "Best Costume"...
Isn't she adorable?! Her 'mom' did an awesome job of making her costume. I love the headpiece!!! And, look at this colorful dress...
Here she is with her whole costume, posing for pictures...
The prize for "Best Theme" went to the "Wicked Witch and Her Flying Monkeys" (2 'dales in monkey costumes with wings and the owner dressed like a wicked witch). Unfortantely, I didn't get a picture of them. But, I got a picture of the winner for "Funniest Costume"..."Bernie Madoff"...
The winner for "Scarriest Costume" was one of Salsa's old buddies, Norman. He was a pirate!...
There were around 30 airedales at the party and lots of great costumes. Here are some more cute ones...an "Aire Mail Carrier"...
What a cutie!
There were "ChippenDales"...Notice the one on the right bracing himself for the next wind gust and the ear blowing on the dale on the left...
These two dales were ready for a day on the water...complete with floatation vests and sunglasses...
They eventually ditched their water vests but this one kept her shades on throughout the whole party!...
What would a party be without a super hero?! Meet "Super Dale"...
We enjoyed many of the things we do every year at this party, including: costumes and a parade; a raffle to benefit Airedale Rescue (they made almost $400 this year); a pot luck and barbeque; a treat table for the doggies; and a generous gift bag that was given to each family. Here's all the goodies we brought home today from the raffle and our party bag...a calendar, cookbook, toys, treats, coupons, a frisbee...
Unfortunately, because of the wind, the doggy dancing (Salsa's good at that) and the "Grueling Games" (games and contests with our dogs) were cancelled. But, we all had such a great time visiting with the other Airedales and their owners and we look forward to getting together again next year.
Happy Halloween! :-D