Write On

Changes

2009-01-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

It's a new year. I'm up for some changes, so I decided to move.

You can find me at:

http://www.raggedaroundtheedges.wordpress.com

Why not? Everyone else was doing it.

(PS: Transferred the whole blog over there. You can also still find me via e-mail at raggedaroundtheedges at hotmail dot com.)

How did they know that four was my OCD number

2009-01-08T15:08:00.000-08:00

Farmwife tagged me with a unique meme. Go to her post and there is the sweetest photo, in complete contradition to the one I am showing here.

If you wanna play along, here's how it works.

1. Go to the 4th picture folder on your computer.
2. Post the 4th picture in that folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 more people.

She also gives a nice explanation of why they chose the number four.

I must confess, however, that I was excited at the number 4, being as when I get stressed, I count things in multiples of four. There you have it, another reason to wonder about my sanity and advise me to stay away from heat sources and sharp objects.

As for the photograph above, I think I shot it in anticipation of a post about the fact that we bought a new mattress and box springs for our upstairs guest room, only to discover that the box springs couldn't squeeze through the doorway up the stairs. So, we had to stow them in the garage and have a series of 2 x 6 boards cut to become the foundation of the mattress. Sad, boring and true. This was shot at the hardware store.

Now, as for the tagging. Let's see, how about any of you that wish to participate do. I'm feeling a bit lax in the rule department these days. Have at it.

Step away from the gray cat

2009-01-06T17:44:00.001-08:00

She's actually just yawning. However, she looks pretty fierce, right?

Taking bets

2009-01-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

So, we joined a new fitness facility. I won't call it a gym because it's associated with our local hospital and all dedicated to wellness and such. Which is a good thing because it's been so long since I've been such a facility that I might need medical attention.

I officially became a member January 1, but since I still can't take a full breath of air, I haven't been "able" to go yet. (Translation: I've been too busy and too lazy.)

Tonight we are supposed to go. Cynical even gave me an edict: "I'll be really tired tonight, but make me go."

It's raining. It's nasty and seriously sad outside.

Who is taking bets as to whether we go or not?

PS: I published the photograph of tangerines on our kitchen table to prove that we have more than fudge, Candy Cane kisses and butter cookies in our house. There is some nutrition available if we so choose.

Anybody baking bread?

2009-01-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

I wish I was writing a post about all of the things I accomplished today. If I did, I'd be lying. In truth I've done little or nothing today. Seems I just couldn't get myself motivated to do much more than watch a marathon of "The Secret Life of the American Teenager." I should be ashamed of myself, but I really am not. I should have repainted the wall in the kitchen. I should have organized my basket of receipts. I should have taken a walk. Maybe I should have at least finished my resolution list. But I did none of the above.

I did manage to tidy up a bit. I did harvest some crops on my Facebook farm and I did a load of laundry. Perhaps my biggest accomplishment (outside of the aforementioned marathon) was making dinner, such as it was. Just some steamed asparagus, baked and marinated pork chops, and garlic-parsley potatoes. I was quite satisfied with myself, particularly in that everything was actually pretty good and done at about the same time. This from a girl who grew up with her mom rewarming foods repeatedly in an attempt to keep them warm.

As for the rest of my evening, there are a few more episodes of this show still to go and Cynical baked some cookies. I'm not sure what has captivated me with this show, except maybe I was able to watch it, not think much and get to see Molly Ringwold all grown up. And it made me realize all the more that I never want to relive high school whether in my mind or in reality.

Off to search for some easy online yeast bread recipes. Any of you have one to share?

Reflecting and planning

2009-01-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

Cynical and I typically spend our New Year's Eve at home. I make up bunches of finger foods. We dine on Lil Smokies, shrimp, veggies and wine. He sleeps. I watch movies and knit. It's a peaceful wrap-up for the year gone by and a nice welcome for the one to come.

This year, however, we joined some family and friends for a proper party. I must admit, it was tough for both of us to stay up that late after all of the mayhem of a game called "spoons", cards, margaritas, charades and other antics that I'd rather not share. (Oh, come on, it's us, how wild could it have been.) New Year's came and passed and I felt as if something was missing.

I suspect what I was craving was that big block of private, quiet time when I contemplate the year gone by and make big plans for the year to come. Yes, I actually write down resolutions and often I even refer to them throughout the year. They are well planned, well-thought-out and very reflective of the person I want to be. Now, they aren't always kept, followed or even thoroughly considered. But, I do make a good faith effort, at least in the planning phase.

So, this year's resolution writing is happening a tad later than usual. But, I figure, what's a few days when you are preparing for an entire year, right?

Some are too personal to share, but if you are super nice and incredibly patient, I might let you peek at a few. For instance, I want to learn to bake bread and plant a garden. (Speaking of patience, we could all use a dose of it in 2009, don't you think?)

What are your plans for 2009?

Gratitude

2008-12-31T09:07:00.000-08:00

I've been doing some pouting and whining lately, lamenting over illness, leaks and roofing. In an effort to dig my way out of this horrible mood, I thought instead of tallying the repair bills or the number of times I have blown my nose, I thought I'd count my blessings and perhaps ask for a little input.

Humor me for a moment as I list a few things I am grateful for today:

1. I am thankful that we were able to find two reliable and sensible workmen to brave the cold and help us with all of our water issues.

2. I am grateful for the time I have gotten to spend with loved ones over the holiday.

3. Peppermint flavored stuff: ice cream, kisses, coffee. . .

4. The sunshine streaming through the windows. Even though the temperatures have dropped, the sun is shining, bringing beautiful light into the house..

5. Creative, caring people. I am surrounded, both online and offline, by creative and kind people. What a blessing.

And now onto the interactive part of this post. Soon I'll be making my resolutions or plans for the new year. What are you hoping to accomplish in 2009. I'd like to reach beyond the typical weight loss and financial goals. Maybe dig a little deeper.

Miracles and other events

2008-12-30T12:57:00.000-08:00

When we came home Christmas Eve, we spied a miracle in the living room. In the event you don't believe it, I snapped the photograph above. You see, our little Eli (on the right) isn't what I'd call a "social being". In fact, he resents our very existence and spends his days spying on us. And Izzie, well, she's her own girl, independent and unforgiving.

It seems, however, that the two decided to put aside their grudges and share our chair. I am not sure if it was the true Christmas spirit or perhaps a chill in the air.

Where have I been?

2008-12-29T13:04:00.000-08:00

Um, it seems I was gobbled up by the holidays. Forgive me for being so non-present for the past week or so. I know how much you like to read about our roller coaster of a life. (Cough. Cough.)

The past few days have been a bit of a whirlwind, I am sure it's been much the same for you. We've been hosts to lots of family and friends. We've had some quality time with both. That's the true blessing of the holiday. I was able to sit, knit and visit with my beloved sister-in-law, play games alongside my 13-year-old-but-still-loving nephew, hang out with my brother who lives afar, dine with some dear to us and even get in some shopping with a friend from way up North. In between we ate together and opened lots of carefully wrapped packages. So many generous friends and family. Thanks to each of you for the goodies! We weren't that good last year, seriously!

After all of the fun and mayhem, I discovered that what I had been most denying was true. I am sick, some sort of a respiratory thing. It has kicked my butt for the past three days. I'm not a good patient and have been caught pouting over the fact that I don't feel like doing anything. As a result, I missed a four year old's birthday party and an outing with friends in from way west. So, today I decided I'd be victorious over mucus, coughing and chapped nose. I took down and stowed all of our Christmas stuff, save the lights on the tree. Hoping Cynical will help me conquer those. I have otherwise removed all signs of the holidays, putting away gifts and wrapping up ornaments.

Meanwhile, two very nice men are climbing all over our roof, hammering this, sawing that and emptying our bank accounts. Yep, we're getting our roof repaired. And guess what? The part they are replacing now isn't even our problem, it was an issue noticed earlier and upon investigation was more of a problem than we anticipated. Ugh. Double ugh. They have also removed portions of our siding, noting that they were improperly installed and opening yet another way for water to enter the house. Wonderful. Good news, they are fixing it. Bad news, it's gonna cost us. This place better be fit to float whenever they leave. Fingers crossed.

Merry Christmas to you and yours

2008-12-24T09:40:00.000-08:00

In just a few short hours it will be getting very, very busy around here. Cynical and I just celebrated our own personal Christmas, waking up to gifts left by Santa and I have some pecan pies baking for each of our two family meals tomorrow. So, in between I wanted to take a moment to wish you and yours a very blessed Christmas. Hug those that you love. Savor every moment. Take lots of pictures.

Meanwhile, also say a prayer that we don't come home to find our ceiling in the floor. After much, much rain, it is leaking again.

Taking a breath

2008-12-23T06:03:00.000-08:00

Whew! At this pace I am not sure I'll even be awake when Christmas finally gets here. It's been a crazy, crazy vacation thus far. Leaks, rampant last-minute Christmas shopping with Dad and my beloved, visits with friends and family, hosting, scrambling here, and scurrying there.

However, today I have cleared my calendar. I don't have to be anywhere until 2:45 and that's a trip to perpetuate my hair's chemical reliance. At first I thought I'd run errands, drive to the yarn shoppe etc. However, I am finding myself a bit lazy and I think a day knitting, watching movies and staying warm is in order. Don't you agree.

A tiny, retro tree from the bargain bins at Target. I had to buy it.

It's coooold outside

2008-12-21T05:24:00.000-08:00

Temperatures are predicted to dip to below 10 degrees tonight. We're tucked safe inside, but must admit we are missing warmer weather, sitting on the porch and watching the squirrels.

In other news: looking forward to lunch today with Brando and Rudy, and anxiously expecting the arrival of my brother, his wife and the nephew.

Ike and Cooper peek outside, remembering afternoons on the porch.

Wishing and hoping

2008-12-20T08:45:00.001-08:00

Alas, despite our cries of "Why me?" and my pouting over the missed trip, we think the leak has been conquered.

Please note that the central theme here is "think". We aren't sure. Our fix-it guys came, examined the situation, did some work around our chimney and short of promising their first born felt they have the source of the leak sealed, for now. There's a storm coming tonight, so we are supposed to be mindful of the water, which won't be hard if it's dripping into the middle of our living room. Fingers crossed. Hope are high.

If this is indeed the fix, we will next deal with the ceiling. Ugh. Ugh. Double Ugh. That's the part that scares me. What lies beneath?

Seriously. . . did we deserve this?

2008-12-19T06:08:00.000-08:00

I got up early this morning, earlier than I had planned. I think I was excited about driving to the land of horse racing for a visit with one of my closest, perhaps my closest, friends. I sat in the chair in the living room, deciding to enjoy a few minutes by the tree.

I heard a tap, another tap and a third tap. I had hoped it was one of the cats knocking at something they weren't supposed to, but when I turned on the light and spied my little gray cat looking at the ceiling and a spot on the carpet, I knew that indeed Ike wasn't knocking a Hershey's kiss around under the couch. We had a leak, a bonafide leak in the center of our living room ceiling.

Not really wanting to face facts, I got a step ladder and decided to feel for myself. Yep, a leak. I then weighed my options, decided I needed a second opinion and woke up my beloved.

He confirmed. Yep a leak. And we used our amateur investigative skills (absorbed by watching multiple episodes of "Monk" and "The Hardy Boys") and decided we had not a clue where the water was coming from.

And we sat on the couch again and moaned. It was 5:15 a.m. There was no one to call. I placed a bucket beneath the leak. Cynical went to bed. I watched the news until 7.

I felt 7 a.m. was a respectable time to call my friend and commence crying and whining. (And I did cry, puff up and snot through an entire conversation.)

And now my day won't be filled with giggles, leisurely lunches where waitresses bring me multiple Diet Cokes or even a yarn shop stop. I will, instead, sit dutifully in my chair monitoring the slow drip of a leak into a big blue bucket until our Mr. Fix-It comes to at least stop the leak until a roofer can come, solve our problems and drain our bank accounts.

Sickness, working late and wishing for good mail

2008-12-16T16:35:00.000-08:00

I woke up sick this morning, something of a stomach bug I think. I had to go into work, being as I am taking a bunch of time off over the holidays and I had back-to-back-to-back meetings, including one which meant I'd miss an office party and work late. Our front stoop is an ice skating rink and we didn't get one Christmas card today. Excuse me while I whine, wonder whether it's safe to eat dinner and collapse into my own bed.

Weekends and knitting

2008-12-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas is in 11 days. Is anyone else having a hard time grasping that? Seriously, it is in 11 days. It's not that I have lots of shopping to do. The decorating has been completed for a little while now. And most of the packages are wrapped.

I think what has my Christmas feathers ruffled is that I have so many things I want to do between now and then. I want to make Christmas CDs. I want to make a yo-yo garland. I had hoped to host a personal marathon of Christmas movies. I had planned to get together with more friends. I had lots of things I wanted to do and it is just now hitting me that there just isn't time.

I'm not being ungrateful. We've had a weekend full of holiday events. From work Christmas parties to plays to church cantatas, we've done it all. And our calendar is full of yet more get togethers, parties, plans and intentions. Perhaps that is what I need to concentrate on: the things we can do, can get done and will enjoy.

Just thought I'd share an ornament that survived the Great Tree Fall of 2007 and a little scarf I knitted up for fun. Lumpy, bumpy yarn, all knit.

Checking in: drive-by blogging

2008-12-11T08:07:00.000-08:00

It's busy, isn't it? Are you guys feeling overwhelmed and swamped too?

So, just a quick stop to to provide a few unnecessary updates and to say hello.

-Did I tell you that starting December 19, I am taking vacation time and not coming back into the office until January 2. Yep, that's a long time and I cannot wait. I may even be counting the days. I have big plans for that time period, but we all know I'll just be eating butter cookies, knitting and watching lame Christmas movies. But I will be wearing my new sporty (green and gray) slippers I bought on Black Friday, so that completely redeems my laziness, because I'll be doing it in style.

-On December 19, I am trekking to the land of Churchill Downs and spending time with a friend, playing with her kids, doing some yarn shopping and dining out. I can't wait for that either. Oh, and I'm packing lots of Christmas music and you can't stop me.

-I wore the Puffed Sleeve Cardigan (Fitted Knits) to work recently and since then every time I wear a sweater someone thinks I have knitted it. I am taking it as a compliment. It is, right? However, I wonder if they realize that I do sleep and eat and bathe and watch a lot of television and sometimes I read. Really, no way could I have knit my entire wardrobe. I just might start taking credit, but that would be wrong, particularly this close to Christmas. He's still watching I hear.

-I'm *this* close to finishing up my shopping. Seem to be stumped when it comes to my nephew. Seriously, what do you get a 13-year-old boy? I'm perplexed and so out of touch. Makes me feel old, so old I might buy one of those plastic head scarves to wear when it's raining. I have one gift to nab for a family friend, but I think otherwise we're sparkly and golden when it comes to shopping.

-I bought the goods to make a yo-yo garland. I'm going to use a little tutorial to do so. I landed on it as my Christmas craft this year because 1. It's easy. 2. I don't like to sew, and am hoping this will help with that and 3. It's so darned cute. Don't you think?

-My beloved is getting me a dress form for Christmas. I spied one online on sale, I even had a co-worker measure me (yes, in my office) with a tape measure that came with my desk. I'm a happy elf these days. I envision myself playing dress up until the New Year. Maybe I'll shoot some photographs for you, show you my true handknit sweaters.

Timelines, schedules and cards

2008-12-08T04:30:00.000-08:00

I finished my Christmas cards yesterday. That may not sound like a bit feat, but for me, somehow, it takes forever. I am not sure if it is because unlike last year I decided to write out the addresses. Maybe it's because I write a note in most of them. It could be the procrastinator in me or maybe the perfectionist. Anyway, they went out today, save a few stragglers that still need full addresses (nothing I do is every really "done").

When it was all over, I was covered in a glittery coating, as was my face (resulting from licking the envelopes), the couch, my address book and I think a nearby cat. We do like glittery, and I did feel a bit like Glenda The Good Witch, except I hadn't bathed yet, brushed my hair and wasn't carrying a wand.

My mom sends hers out the day before Thanskgiving. She takes great pride in that, beating everyone else to the punch. I think her legs are permanently bent from sitting in bed each night addressing them. Hers, of course, was the first one to arrive and I think she gloated as she called to check that it had.

We had a good night last night, save the fact that I ended up being shocked by a strand of tiny lights, smacked in the face with a rocking chair gone wild and earned a blister on my finger from wrangling bulbs out of multiple strings of nonfunctional lights. And a good time was had by all.

The spirit of things

2008-12-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

In my last post I teased about the things I want for Christmas. It was a bit of irony, as I can't seem to think of anything to add to my wish list this year. Cynical has been prodding and usually I have a few wants/desires up my sleeve, but I think right now I am being a little too practical and realizing that I don't really "need" anything. A friend told me yesterday that things had shifted in her mind from what she wanted to what she needed and I suspect the same had happened to me. Although a dress form would be nice, nice, nice.

So, this weekend is going by quickly. I judged the lighting contest Friday night, traversing all across our little town admiring all of the hard work, organizational skills and patience of the homeowners. Yesterday I did some errand running and spent the day with a close friend. A little shopping, a nice lunch and some lengthy venting, conversing and laughing. Mmmmm. What I want for Christmas is more time with her.

Cynical and I did a little more shopping once I got home, hoping to make a dent in his personal shopping and I think we're off to a good start.

It's Sunday and in a few hours my day will get very busy. I'm going to see a musical performance with my mom and then putting up her tree. It's a chore, as I typically assemble it, shape it, put the lights on and then mom adds the ornaments. It's not a fair exchange, but it never is. Wish me luck.

Christmas confessions

2008-12-06T20:05:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I have a few holiday confessions. You don't mind if I share a bit here, do you? It's a bit selfish of me, you see, as I shop for others, I keep spying stuff I'd like to find beneath my tree.

Well, first of all, I secretly want a Nintendo DS so I can cook like Lisa Kudrow. That's the only reason. It's not a good enough one though, right?

I sooo want a dressmaker's form. Seriously, no more pathetic sweaters folded on the table photographs and no more begging Cynical to take a shot of me and then never being satisfied with them.

Ooooh and a cleaning lady, complete with her own Swiffer, would be a grand thing for Santa to deposit in my stocking.

Oh, and world peace and healthcare for all.

It's in the little things

2008-12-05T07:38:00.000-08:00

I have said repeatedly that I tend to get a bit glum during the holidays. And you are probably sick of hearing about that. I know I am. I have, however, managed to find great cheer, joy and overall glittery happiness in so many of the small things the season brings and I am gonna share a few here. Do you mind?

I love, love, love peppermint stuff. And this is the time of year for all things peppermint-esque, isn't it? This morning I stopped for a venti, nonfat, Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha on the way to work. Upon arrival, I unwrapped a few Candy Cane Hershey's Kisses and smiled. I was off to a good start. (Seriously, have you had the candy cane Kisses? Happiness, kindness and world peace all wrapped up in foil. Amazing.)

I like Christmas music. This has nearly ended my 12-year relationship on many an occasion, but I do love it. Not all of it, but most of it. This morning I packed Christmas CDs ala James Taylor and Sarah McLachlan. Planning to listen to them to and fro work, not to mention during.

Later this month I am trekking to the horse racing capital of the world to visit with a dear, dear college friend. I must confess, she is the one person in the world that I feel truly, truly accepts me. Seriously, this girl can tolerate me in a way no one else can. And I love her for it. Unfortunately I tend to pour all of my angst onto her, but she's always up for the challenge. I am so looking forward to visiting with her two beautiful kids and spending some time just with her, no agenda, just us.

The light of our tree makes me so very happy. Hearing the cat beneath it drinking water out of the base, however, does tend to ruin the mood. That being said, relaxing in the living room by the light of those 1600 bulbs brings me such peace. I even turn it on in the morning while I am getting ready. I also put a small tree in the bedroom, such nice light, casts a whole new feel to the room.

Christmas cards! Who doesn't like getting good mail? And the month of December is full of it!

And I must confess, filling out those little tags that accompany gifted knitted items. I dunno, but it makes me feel good to think that someone will be wearing something I made just for them.

I am sure I'll find more little joys in the day. I am judging a lighting contest tonight with my partner in holiday cheer.

What makes you happy this time of year? Where do you find peace?

Christmas Knitting: Check

2008-12-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

The last of my Christmas knitting, modeled by my beloved.

75 Yard Malabrigo Fingerless Mitts by Jeanne Stevenson
Yarn: (Not Malabrigo) Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride in Black and Charcoal Gray
Needles: #9 Addis, Magic Loop Method
Completed: November 22, 2008

Knitting confessions: I ran out of charcoal gray yarn on the second mitt, so I had to improvise, and added the black trim, which meant I had to rip out part of the first one and reknit the last few rows in black to match them up.

My knitting projects are wrapped and tagged thanks to the tags created by Madretz and Zann, the perfect touch.

PS: Last year I started a tradition. I guess it's not really a tradition if you've only done it one year, but they have to start somewhere, right? Well, I decided that I wanted to craft a Christmas decoration for our home. You might remember the button tree (inspired by Madretz) or the cookie cutter mobile. Problem is that this year I am already stumped. Any ideas? Anyone? Anyone?

Shine a little light

2008-12-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

A bubble night light. . . an nod to the Christmases my dad remembers. He has one too.

Markers in the week

2008-12-03T04:30:00.000-08:00

It's Wednesday. It's part of a week of special events and busy chores. My day begins with an annual exam at the doctor's office. (What a way to start the day.) Never fear, I am meeting up with Kissed Knitter for lunch, so that gives me something wonderful to look forward to.

And of course, for the first time this week, I'll be hanging out at home this evening. I kinda want to hang out at home, enjoy the tree, wrap some gifts, maybe write out some Christmas cards. It's gonna be cold and nasty tonight, so it's a good thing to be holed up in the house.

I'm judging a lighting contest later in the week and on Saturday I am spending some time with a dear friend that I've known since sixth grade. On Sunday I'll see a performance of "The Messiah". Not a busy schedule, but one full of little gems.

Just a shot of the centerpiece on our table. Glass ornaments in a compote dish. Fancy, eh?

Something where there was nothing

2008-11-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

Not long ago we bought and put up a series of bookshelves. We've never really had "extra" space for display, so this has been fun to play with, particularly when doing our Christmas decorating.

Santa, we're ready for you

2008-11-30T14:44:00.000-08:00

Our mantle, all decked out in fresh greenery, a little ribbon, stockings and holders, and a few candles. That's my childhood sled on the hearth.

Christmas comes early

2008-11-30T14:35:00.000-08:00

I usually don't put up a tree until well into December. This year, however, we got a little jump on the holidays. Typically we'd be picking out a tree next weekend. I think we were just anxious to get the party started around here, so to speak.

We had thought we'd pick out a tree at a local farm on Sunday. Threats of rain sent us a day early and we ended up spending most of our gorgeous Saturday decorating (not that it's all that strenuous, it just took a while to drag stuff out). It all began with putting some lights on the small shrubs outside and creating fresh garland to put around the door, the remainder of which I used to decorate the mantle. My plan was to light and decorate the tree today, but I got a burst of energy and put all 1600 lights on the tree last night. The ornaments had to wait until this morning.

Alas, Christmas has come early to Chez Ragged.

Making it through

2008-11-29T05:08:00.000-08:00

Well, we made it. We survived not one, but two family dinners. Enough said about that. Let's just say the key is hanging out with the kids, you can't go wrong when you hang out with the kids at any function.

Managed to brave Black Friday. Didn't have to stand next to any tech geek trying to talk me into an Xbox as the line moved slowly toward the front doors of Best Buy. Didn't have to squeeze my way to the music department. Even managed to get everything I was after and a few things extra in my sack of Christmas goodies.

Considering driving out to pick up the tree today. It's beginning (already) to look a lot like Christmas.

Thanks giving

2008-11-26T13:12:00.001-08:00

Heading out soon to begin our version of Thanksgiving. Wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving surrounded by the ones you love and lots of mashed potatoes.

Corners of our home

2008-11-23T06:14:00.000-08:00

A while back there was a trend in blogging to post corners of your home. I participated and it was kinda neat to get a peek into other's homes. It satisfied that nosy part of all of us and it also provided some inspiration.

It occurred to me recently that the corners of my home then and the corners now are completely different. So, as I was snapping photographs of a few knitted items in my studio, I shot the photograph above of our second guest room/retreat. It it is situated at one end of my studio space behind two French doors. Jenny from the Blog christened it recently when she was our guest last summer. I had originally envisioned workspace there, but then it seemed natural to make it another bedroom, much in the sentiment of my grandmother who put a bed everywhere in her attempt to welcome as many guests as possible.

The bed was Cynical's grandmother's and until now we hadn't had a place for it. The rocker in the back corner is a recent purchase from an estate sale down the street. The bench at the end of the bed was hauled from an art fair in Indiana. The quilt was an online order many, many years ago. The cabinet atop the table in the back was made out of an old window by a local artisan. A few treasures are sitting inside. Atop it sits six Ovaltine jars with painted lids, my dad's version of canisters that he made for me to use in my first apartment. The shelving unit sits atop the table that sat in my parents' kitchen when I was a kid. It was once bright yellow.

The space up there is unlike the rest of our house. It's a tad lighter. It's filled with lots and lots of personal items, clutter as Cynical might call it. And it tends to be where small pieces of furniture go to live.

It's a very, very personal space, and very peaceful. If only it were warmer up there, I'd retreat secretly each day.

Exchange

2008-11-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

I ask that Stacey over at Too Many Scarves forgives me for just now bragging on the package she sent recently. You might recall that in October I proposed a craft exchange with fellow bloggers. And I have to admit, I came out so far ahead that I feel guilty! So many beautiful handmade items.

Stacey sent the cutest, bulky, cabled hat. Seriously, this thing is adorable. I wore it the entire time I surfed the net the night I received it. So cute. And tucked inside the package too was the neatest little tissue cover. Now, tell me, what girl wouldn't want to carry her tissues in it. The fabric is so swweet and I am always amazed at anyone that sews such tiny little things. Thanks, Stacey, seriously, this rocks.

Gift Knitting

2008-11-22T06:10:00.000-08:00

Gift knitting makes me nervous. Timelines. Pleasing the recipient. It's a lot for a knitter to take on. However, each Christmas I find myself knitting up small items for family and loved ones. Gift knitting is a tricky thing. You pour your time into choosing patterns, picking yarns and making the actual item. It's a true loved one that receives a handknitted gift. You will only put that kinda time into someone you know will appreciate it.

Above is a simple knitted scarf to accompany a tam/beret I actually made much earlier this year and tucked back for my mom. I used Elsbeth Lavold Baby Llama to knit it. Oooooh, so soft, a neat construction (the scarf tucks into itself thanks to the little ribbed loops you see there.) And it's sure to stay put around her neck.

The second photo is of some very, very simple fingerless mitts for a friend that requested them. Cold hands at work prompted her to ask for some: green, simple and not too long. I hope these fit the bill. The pattern is called 75 Yard Malabrigo Mitts, but I used some leftover Cascade Superwash lurking in my stash. It was green, afterall.

I am now making my youngest brother a pair out of some Lamb's Pride in a pretty gray. They have a rustic appeal. After making this first pair I wanted to knit up all of my worsted weight yarn into these. Sadly, they aren't appealing just laying there, but put them on and they take on a whole new life, so neat, so utilitarian and classic. Love them.

Of course, I have three cowls ready for gifting. I also reknit a scarf for a friend that (knitters turn away) washed and dried her alpaca scarf. Deep breath. A few dishcloths and small items thrown in as well.

In reality I now only have to wrap up my bro's mitts and knit a hat for my other sibling. All done. Except that I had intended on knitting stockings for each of us here. . . maybe another year.

Simple Socks

2008-11-22T06:04:00.001-08:00

In the midst of my whining, there has been some knitting:

Simple Socks
Pattern: The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns by Ann Budd (The standard pattern I use.)
Yarn: Araucania Ranco Multy Color 310
Needles: Addis #1; Magic Loop Style
Started: October 22, 2008
Completed: November 16, 2008

Sometimes I just want something simple to knit; nothing to remember, no yarnovers to contend with, not much counting. I wanted to do some stockinette socks. And this yarn was perfect for that, nice color variation. Sweet little socks.

Turning it around

2008-11-22T05:03:00.000-08:00

Whenever things are tough, I tend to retreat. I succumb to my hermit tendencies. I often am even non-conversational at home. None of those things are helpful. In fact, retreating isn't healthy at all. I reached out a little this week to you guys and I want to thank you so very much for your kind comments. I have also been chatting online the past few days with a dear friend, perhaps the person that most accepts me, my idiosynchrasies and craziness, and it's been rewarding and very unexpected. It's those blessings that pull you out; the kind words, the empathy, the "you are not alone" feeling you get from good people.

And I thank you.

Inkling left a particularly moving link and for those of you that didn't read the comments on my last post, I wanted to share it with you here. I know the message moved me and reminded me of the real Christmas paradigm. So, visit The Advent Conspiracy.

A new Christmas paradigm

2008-11-21T08:11:00.000-08:00

I think I've groused on this blog several times that the holiday are hard for me. That sentence sounds really pathetic and very whiny and I apologize for that. That being said, I might whine some more, so you might want to quit reading. I am sure I'll apologize again later too.

The holidays are hard because my family is difficult and complicated. Barbs are thrown, gifts are used to emotionally and sometimes (nearly) physically bludgeon. Feelings are hurt. Awful things said and unsaid. And in the midst of the mess I sit, a vulnerable, sensitive, and blubbering mess of a person; all of my feelings splayed on my face for all to see.

And then there is all the stuff. Stuff, stuff, stuff. Plastic stuff, stuff in boxes, stuff we don't need. My mom recently told me her plans to buy stuff to make my aunt and uncle do stuff that she thought they needed to be doing. Manipulation through giving. Isn't that nice? Oh, and she is throwing in a photograph of her and dad for good measure. Double the pleasure.

I know you thought it was about the spirit of giving, the essence of caring. It's all about control. It's the new Christmas paradigm.

Oh. . . and I'm sorry.

Rebound

2008-11-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

For reasons I can't explain here, the past few days have sucked. My goodness, I should have a better vocabulary than that, but alas, I've now sunk to describing things that way. My parents, educators and colleagues would be so proud.

The upswing today was that McDonald's (as I learned in a cell call from my beloved) was offering a free coffee a month for the next year if you only stopped by their central location. I did, I bought coffee and two $1 menu items. And I got a free cookie.

Sad thing is, it made me really, really happy, for just a little bit.

Wanna have some fun?

2008-11-19T07:33:00.001-08:00

Go here.

Goodbye autumn, hello winter

2008-11-18T04:40:00.000-08:00

Brrrrr! I had to pull out my winter coat, warm my car a bit and defrost the windows this morning. Goodbye autumn, hello winter. Grumble. Grumble.

(I also unhooked our last hose, stored our porch cushions and brought up the heavy blanket. Old Man Winter, bring it on!)

Warning: Pathetic attempt at an update

2008-11-17T16:46:00.000-08:00

I got some great yarn. I got a great package of goodies in the mail. I have even made progress on knitting Christmas gifts, but I got nothing to show for it because there isn't enough daylight to take any decent photographs.

However, I can tell you about our wonderful, relaxing weekend with some friends from afar. That being said, I don't have any photographic proof of that either. Needlefingers and Pilot made the trek, in the rain to see us last weekend and we were ever so grateful for their company. As promised, we spent most of the weekend (in the words of my sister-in-law) hanging out. And even though there was no real agenda, it passed all too quickly, as we chatted, politicized, knitted, played Trivial Pursuit, cooked, dashed out for icecream, and all tried to stay warm and dry. (The weekend was so coooold and wet. The sun didn't show its face until Sunday and then we had to threaten a move south.) Only wishing we had more time and they lived closer.

Needlefingers brought me the most delightful present. I am still in awe of her generosity and forethought: Wollmeise! Enough said for now, you need to see it to truly appreciate it. Patience, grasshopper, patience.

In other news: it's cooooold. I spent most of my time putting on yet another pair of socks, waffling between which blanket is the warmest and hoping a cat will come sit with me so I can steal his warmth.

Thursday. . . really?

2008-11-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

Really? It's Thursday? Seriously? Where did the week go?

I have nothing to share because I am busy wondering what happened to the last four days. I seem to recall going to work. I seem to remember coming home. The in-between is a blur.

I can tell you that we are expecting special guests this weekend, Needlefingers and Pilot. I will confess that Pilot hit the nail on the head when he accused us of cleaning in preparation for their visit. I will admit that we scrambled to the grocery so we'd have enough food to feed our guests. I will also come clean about my knitting: there's been very little of that this week.

Another walk photograph.

Home alone

2008-11-10T11:41:00.001-08:00

I lived alone for a very long time. And as much as it bothered my friends and family, it never really bothered me. If I wanted company, I invited someone over. If I wanted to hang out with someone, I went to them. If I wanted time alone, however, I just went home and shut the door. I have always been able to entertain and amuse myself. Not sure if that's the mark of being the only daughter, the oldest or simply who I am.

I truly was content. I managed to fill my time with projects, parties and piddling. I was once snowed-in for the greater part of a week; and seriously, I was entertained the entire time. I'm ashamed to tell you what entertained me, but it's amazing how having two seasons of "Felicity" on VHS, a propensity toward clothes organization and far too many books can keep a girl occupied.

Whenever I began living with my beloved, it was a huge adjustment. Girl tidiness made way for boy piles of stuff. Wednesdays were no longer known as "Felicity Night". I could no longer consider a muffin and a Twizzler dinner. I suspect it was mainly a control issue. I had been used to being in control of my space, my time, my schedule and my life.

After some negotiation, some arguments, some patience, we settled in just fine. Not to say that we don't battle from time to time over the expiration dates of food items, the number of towels we own or when the yard needs mowing, but we manage just fine. I will say, however, that we do have our own spaces. I have a studio. He has an office. We don't retreat to our corners often; in fact, we are generally within a few feet of each other most of the time.

Cynical works from home and I tend to be a tad more social than he is, so he often is alone in the house. I, however, have not been alone in the house. Sure, Cynical goes to work out or to run an errand, but I am never really there on my own.

After tonight, I can't say that. He'll be away on a work obligation and I'll be in that vast space all by myself. And as much as I like seeing Cynical each evening, I kinda look forward to being there. . . by. . . myself.

I have teased that I'll be having French cut green beans and Polish sausage for dinner; one of my favorite meals when I was a lone bachelorette. I may pull out the "Felicity" DVDs and who knows, I might just organize my closet. It will be just like old times. . . until I start missing Cynical or it's time to go to bed. Wait. . . what if I have a bad day and need to talk. What if I need help opening the sausage packet. Hey, what if I read something funny online, do I laugh alone. . . there is a reason we cohabitate.

Baby, it's cold out there

2008-11-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

Brrrrrrrrr. The weekend is over and we're left digging out our fleece and thick socks. Spent Saturday Christmas shopping with my mom, nabbed some yarn along the way. Spent Sunday doing chores, mopping floors and making beds. Did manage to put buttons on the Puffed Sleeved Cardigan from Fitted Knits (shown above). I like this sweater. I loved knitting with the yarn (Knit Picks Merino Style). What makes this sweater special is that I may actually wear this one. Someday I will unveil some modeled shots of the sweaters I've made. It occurred to me that I have only shared the first two in that manner, not that you've been missing out.

Work week ahead, special guests this weekend, cold temperatures expected.

Shutter Sisters

2008-11-08T19:52:00.001-08:00

I visit several blogs every day. This one brings me so much joy. It's a photo blog, a verra cool photo blog. Stop by Shutter Sisters.

Priorities

2008-11-07T06:34:00.000-08:00

I have lots of knitting stuff to show you, but alas, this darned Standard Time stuff is really interfering with my photo opportunities. I have already written a letter to President-Elect O bama, asking him to forgo any plans to wrap up the war in Iraq or tackle our economic woes and instead develop a measure to do away with this whole daylight savings/standard time stuff. It was well written and I only used a few explicatives, so I am sure he'll take me seriously and perhaps consider me for a cabinet post. Before I can accept, however, I am going to need a big old nap to make up for the interuption in my sleep pattern blamed on the election and standard time.

Change

2008-11-06T08:40:00.000-08:00

"Young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled, Americans have sent a message to the world that we have never been just a collection of red states and blue states. We have been and always will be the United States of America. "
- President-elect Barack Obama

Now you see it. . . now you don't

2008-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

It went from this. . .

to this. . .

in a matter of minutes.

I had no idea how freeing it would be to just abandon this project. I think it's an adorable pattern and it's well written. It was, however, not flattering for my body type and had become a bit of an albatross, interfering with my knitting mojo. I spent so much time contemplating how to make this work that it took away from projects that I could have enjoyed. The yarn (Mission Falls Wool) was very pilly. I am not sure I want to recycle this into a large project, maybe several small ones.

Hope

2008-11-05T04:16:00.000-08:00

There is hope.

Keeping Watch

2008-11-04T13:42:00.001-08:00

I voted. . .

2008-11-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

and I got my free cup of coffee.

Let me present a scenario:

You walk into your precinct polling place. You notice a fellow voter wearing a political button endorsing specific candidates. Doesn't matter which candidate or whether you are for or against said candidate. Do you consider that electioneering and a violation of election rules? Are you offended>

Blech. Standard time makes me sick

2008-11-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

This standard time stuff makes me sick. Who wants to come home in the dark. I want light. I want light on my porch when I come home from work, so I can sit out there and unwind. Darned daylight savings time. Blech.

Go vote.

Shot of a candle taken during power outages recently.

Autumn rocks

2008-11-02T14:22:00.000-08:00

It's November. I have confessed before that I truly love autumn more than any other season and I know that once Halloween is over, we are nearing its end. However, I have to admit that it seems my favorite season has held on a bit longer. The past few days have been beautiful and warm, allowing us to venture out and enjoy the remnants.

The higher temps have given us the gift of having our doors open to the porch yet again. Daylight savings time has shortened the time we can spend out there comfortably, but we are taking full advantage. We embarked on a few home improvement projects today, hanging curtains at the doors leading to the screened porch. I must admit, this is the first time I've ever had curtains. Cat hair and curtains don't mix, so we've opted for blinds instead. This time, however, we chanced it on the floor length variety in an effort to keep the living room a tad warmer when winter hits.

A quick review of the paper sent us on another improvement adventure. A while back we had used some house warming cash and gift cards to buy a small shelf to put in our entry. An ad revealing they were on sale sent our money-saving minds into action. Soon we were home with three more, planning a bank of them along the longest bare wall in our living room. One is assembled. The other two are safe in their boxes, our backs weren't up to putting them together.

We just got back from a short walk. I wanted to take advantage of the light and the beautiful day to capture some of the beautiful color. Soon I'll warm up some of the soup I made yesterday. Yes, I made soup, what of it? And Cynical made a frittata this morning. We're all fancy pants at Chez Ragged these days. . . hanging curtains, trying new recipes.

A photograph taken along our walk. I gathered leaves as we saunted along. Cynical was not amused.

Tell me to have fun

2008-11-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

We were warned that this was a ten-bag of candy street. We were prepared and that's a good thing as around 80 -90 trick-or-treaters slipped up our walk demanding candy.

I was reminded yet again why I love kids as a five-year-old (Spiderman's offspring it seems) screamed as he headed down the walk, "Now tell me to have fun." And you know what, we did just that.

We had one little trick-or-treater refuse an Almond Joy, stating simply, "I don't like coconut." Man, these kids know their candy. I again obliged.

It was wonderful to sit on the front porch stoop, greet trick-or-treaters and visit with our neighbors, officially meeting one or two for the first time. I am reminded daily that the move was a good choice. I missed this sort of community atmosphere.

We snuck out as soon as there seemed to be a break in the flow, dashing across town to see a movie produced by a few of my acquaintances. "Hallows Eve" was filmed locally and includes some local talent as well as an original soundtrack. Campy, kitchy and great. We loved it. Lots of gore, lots of great quips. The crowd adored it and it was a great way to wrap up Halloween.

Started our day with breakfast out, ran a few errands, got some stuff for a soup recipe stolen from a co-worker, picked up buttons for my puff-sleeved cardigan, knitted a bit on the porch, walked to and from the library, and made afore-mentioned soup.

All in all, we ended October with a bang and stepped into November quietly. Now tell me to have fun.

A shot of the barn taken during Cache Slash Fest '08.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-30T19:23:00.001-07:00

Boo! Don't be afraid. It's just the annual pumpkin carving at Chez Ragged. Standard triangular eyed, nearly toothless Jack-O-Lantern created by me. Slightly scared, in awe version designed by Cynical. Eat lots of candy, carve lots of pumpkins, greet lots of trick-or-treaters. Enjoy.

Nashville revisited

2008-10-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

Wrapped up my conference and my most recent visit to Nashville on Wednesday and headed on back home. Jakob Dylan accompanied me until I made a stop by Crafty Hands in Bowling Green where I purchased too much yarn and soaked up their incredible customer service. Unfortunately, the stars did not align for a visit with Art. I did, however, get a chance to visit with an old college friend, admire her beautiful daughters and meet her charming new husband.

Just a few parting shots:
-Went with a fellow conference goer to tour Hatch Show Prints, a printing shop that still creates event posters using block-letter presses and hand-matched inks. Incredible. Just a pic of one wall of the shop showing some of their work. Next one shows the wall of wood and lead type. I knew I was in a good spot whenever I read the sign shown here, which was taped to the front door. The last one is a shot of their illuminated sign. This place was a graphic designer or artist's playground. Beautiful fonts, incredibly simplistic yet interesting layout, wonderful smell of inks and wood type.

-The same conference colleague and I toured the Ryman Auditorium as well. You know it best as the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. Such a beautiful building, refurbished in the late 80s with extreme care. I must see a show at this place. You can also see a poster from Patty Griffin's appearance there. . . printed at none-other-than Hatch Show Prints.

-Just a shot of the beautiful blue sky on the US Bank building.

Hanging out in a Nashville hotel

2008-10-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday, in the midst of all of my whining about my back, I got another installment in my craft trade. Celestial made the most incredible felted pin cushion in exchange for a knitted dishcloth and Tribble of her very own. I, once again, came out waaaaay ahead. It's so adorable that I can't quit admiring it. The colors. . . the workmanship. . . the sweet button. So nice. And she even added a few adorable note cards also. You guys rock. This trade has been so much fun.

So, I'm in Nashville, hanging out in the hotel. I left later than I had expected, but got here in time to check into the hotel, walk down to the conference location, sit a spell and attend a reception. My, oh, my, how I hate networking.

My back sent me back up the hill to my hotel room where I am tucked away safe and sound, knitting on a sock and watching television. (Did I tell you I packed my heating pad. . . I am my grandmother.)

Wanna know a secret? I completely unpack whenever I travel. I need to make it feel like home as much as possible. I even like to put my clothes in the drawers.

And you know what? I miss my Cynical. He waved at me whenever I drove away. Broke my heart.

Shot of the adorable pin cushion and a pic of a fountain in downtown Nashville.

I'm a big brave girl. I'm a big brave girl.

2008-10-26T06:13:00.000-07:00

I've decided to brave the trip to Nashville despite my aching back. I have borrowed the mantra of a little boy I used to babysit: "I'm a big brave girl (in my case). I'm a big brave girl." He'd say this repeatedly whenever we were about to try something that scared him; riding a pony, meeting new friends for instance.

I'm excited about my trip. I can't wait to meet Art. I am anxious to see my dear college friend as well. However, there is the angst over the back situation and there is always the tugging of my heart that comes when I leave my Cynical. I'm also not to keen on all of the networking required at these types of things.

Wish me luck in my travels. My bags are yet to be packed, but I have printed out directions to nearby yarn shops and am hoping to find a good bookstore nearby the hotel.

Baby got back

2008-10-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

My back hurts. It hurts a lot. It's been hurting since Monday. I can't get comfortable. I can't sit in my office chair. I can't sit upright anywhere but on our couch. That presents a problem, being as I need to work and I have lots of other things that need my attention.

So, I went to the doctor on Thursday, but only after my co-worker and friend insisted that I either get help or wipe the pained look off my face. The doctor diagnosed a pulled or strained muscle, gave me muscle relaxers and pain meds. Took the muscle relaxer and slept for 12 hours straight.

Realized that I couldn't take meds and worked, tried to brave it out on Friday, but ended up at home swallowing another muscle relaxer and staying on the couch for most of the day.

Big hopes that there is improvement today. I'm scheduled to leave for a conferene tomorrow and am planning meet-ups with old college friends and fellow blogger/online friend Art.

Shot of a dog at last weekend's Cache Slash Fest. Such a sweet, sweet puppy.

Tickled pink socks

2008-10-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Tickled Pink Socks

Yarn: Shibui Sock in Peony

Needles: #2 Addis (Magic Loop)

Finished: October 19, 2008

I bought this yarn whenever we visited The Loopy Ewe during out vacation in May. I think I was drawn to the name. Peonies remind me of my grandmother. She always had them just outside her back door and they smelled amazing. The pattern, in the event you can't tell, includes Xs and Os. I thought that was kinda clever. I actually completed some socks as part of Socktoberfest. Miracles do happen.

Crafty trading

2008-10-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Seems right now I am the luckiest girl in the whole wide world. Remember that crafty trade I mentioned a while back, well several of you took me up on the trade and sent me some goodies. Atop you'll see the first package to darken my doorstep. It's from Zann. She made the coolest tags for my knitted projects. I am still in awe of how perfect they are. I am particularly fond of the one reminiscent of a tattoo.

The second is from one of the craftiest ladies alive. Madretz made these lovely cards and knitting/package tags. Aren't the colors incredible and the tags so very delicately simple. Love, love, love them.

You guys rock. I am seriously overwhelmed.

Cache Slash Fever

2008-10-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

We didn't get to go to the annual Cache Slash Fest last year. I pouted for a month. So, when this year's event rolled around, we threw our bags and GPS device in the car and hit the road. Once again hosted by Needlefingers and Pilot, we are forever grateful for their hospitality. Getting to visit with Rudy, Brando and the kiddos is priceless. Again, I love those kids.

This year's Cache Slash Fest was themed around "Survivor". Long-time reality show fans, this was right up our alley. After finding eight appropriately named and contained caches, we all met back up for some games that certainly were in keeping with the theme. I tend to go all Monica (think "Friends") when it comes to competition with people I barely know. Team Red managed to make it to the finals and I made it to the final two. Didn't win in the end, but what mattered is that I kicked Cynical's arse.

Wonderful food, a warming campfire, great company and getting to meet some new cachers capped off the evening. Caching brings us to places and shows us sites and sights we might never come across. The incredible weather, beautiful autumn light and creative caching made for a relaxing and perfect fall day.

The event was so well done, so relaxing (it wasn't timed and I loved that); seriously I cannot think of a better way to celebrate fellowship, caching, Halloween and autumn.

Special thanks to our hosts again; thanks for the warm, wonderful soup, filling breakfasts, soft bed, warm kitties and helping me wrap up the seaming on that cardigan. Come see us soon.

We are particularly grateful for the afternoon at Cynical's aunt and uncle's house. What a wonderful way to wrap up the weekend.

Just a few shots:
-A beautiful, beautiful autumn day in Illinois. The long expanse of flat ground allows you to get an incredible view of the sky.

-An ostrich. Yep, we came across a whole bunch (flock?) of them. I managed to woo this one into letting me photograph him/her.

-A shot of sundown. Beautiful sherbert-colored skies.

A few things to share

2008-10-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

Seems I wrote that big old post about my brother and vanished from the world of blogging. Sorry folks. Or maybe I am not sorry, some of you just might be glad and doing your own version of the happy dance.

In between rambling about relationships and today, there have been a few things I've been meaning to share. So, ready or not:

Travel & Weekend Antics
Did I mention that we are traveling north to visit with our favorite folks this weekend? Rudy, Pilot, Needlefingers and Brando are hosting their annual Cache Slash Fest (a big, fun, scary geocaching event). We missed it once and I pouted for days. This year, however, the stars and our schedules are aligned, so we are leaving out mid-day and making the trek. I'm particularly excited that it's autumn and I love to travel when the leaves are changing. It's gonna be cold, however, so my suitcase is bursting with fleece and sweaters. Brrrrrr. Good excuse to wear some of those fingerless mitts I've made, eh?

Gratitude
I've decided to start a gratitude journal. Any of you do that? I've pondered it for a bit, but felt that between my actual journal and this blog, it might just be something else to manage. However, after reading an article in "Real Simple" recently, I have become yet again taken by the idea. Phin inspired me by her top five list she posts regularly as well. I might just pull an empty journal from my stash and get started this weekend. I'd like to know if any of you do anything like this and would be willing to share your thought process in doing so.

Knitting
I finished the body of the Tree Jacket. I think I went a tad too far with the garter top, wanting to make sure it went well below my bustline before I started on the more open work. I suspect the yarn is much stretchier than I anticipated and therefore I didn't allow for the give. I started the first sleeve, but have ripped back twice as I think it's too big and wanted to start my decreasing sooner. I hope to wrap it up soon. I feel other projects calling my name.

Crafting & Trading
I sent off my part of the recent crafty trade that several of us had worked out. I hope you each have your package and are washing up a storm with your Tribbles and dishcloths. Many of you have e-mailed that your contribution is in the mail, and I am antsy and glowing with excitement. I can't wait to open each package.

Off to wrap up preparations for our trip. Wishing someone would pack for me. Wishing the trees would change just a little more. Wishing my sinuses weren't revolting against this recent extreme dip in temperature. There's a saying about wishing, though, isn't there?

Truth and consequences

2008-10-13T10:41:00.000-07:00

I should warn you now, fall is approaching and after that is winter. I get all contemplative and daydreamy during those particular seasons. You may want to rejoin this blog come spring.

So, let's get started with all of the deep thoughts and sad notions. For some reason I'm feeling a bit in the "journaling" mood. I used to journal, quite a bit actually. There are volumes tucked away in my "studio" now. Which reminds me, that since it doubles as a guest room, I'd better hide them as I am in big trouble if some visiting insomniac starts searching for some interesting reading.

My brother called last night. He does that sometimes, calls late and talks for a long time. It's usually after some sort of gathering at his house. I suspect that he, much like me, gets all reflective when the house is suddenly emptied of guests and perhaps, just like me, he likes to talk to someone familiar to fill the gap just created. I guess I fill that gap much like puddy fills a crack. And I don't mind that. It's kinda what I always wanted to be to him, someone to talk to, when he just might need to talk a little or a lot for that matter. I have two brothers, he's the middle child. I'm the oldest. We haven't always gotten along. In fact, I think as teens were very closely despised each other. And then there was that long awkward phase when we were becoming adults where we tried at a friendship, but it didn't take.

Now that we're older and have long let go the grudges and the harsh words, writing them off to youth and some disfunctionality in our household, we have some good talks and say some really honest things.

We aren't honest by nature, my family, that is. We aren't liars, really; we just can't say what we are truly thinking, or be completely vulnerable and forthright.

We can't admit fault. And we most certainly can't offer others sincere, heartfelt, encouraging words and phrases without feeling that somehow that reflects poorly on who we are individually. We often refuse to admit any flaws or defects . . instead we fill in the holes with semi-truths and braggery. In fact, most of my family has turned judgmentalism into an artform and into their own personal ego boosting mechanism, as they truly believe they have found the one good way to live, the only path. It's inherent in every conversation, present at every gathering. It's something you can't get away from.

On the other side of the coin, however, it's something both my brother and I work diligently to supress. It's not easy, tucking that angry lion to bed and letting the gentler lamb out to play. I tend to go to the extreme, pointing out each and every personal defect. . . much to the chagrin of those around me. He has his wife to keep that in check.

So, we talked for a few hours, both letting ourselves be vulnerable and open, contrary to what we'd been taught. We didn't spend the hours boosting our own egos, being pretentious or even overbearing, we talked about the mundane; we simply reviewed our house blessing party which he'd missed, discussed the fact that our parents (Cynical's and mine) failed to mix and mingle with each other in the slightest, talked about tension with my youngest brother, approached the topic of politics and debated the merits of planting a fig tree in the yard. He truly believes he can convince me to plant a fruit-bearing tree in my front yard.

And when we hung up, I remember him telling me something I needed to hear: that he loved me and that I was a good sister.

Following the rules carefully set before me and in a quest to receive approval and love, I have been a good daughter. I have even, at times and against the odds, been a good mate, but Cynical may debate this. Sometimes I am a good friend and once in a blue moon I can be a good employee.

I have, however, failed miserably at sisterhood often and without apology. I didn't have a good model when it came to nuclear familial love. I always thought that you didn't find love at home, you had to go out and find it in your chosen family. I never understood that in families where love is hard to find, someone needs to step up and show it. I should have done that more. I should have shared my "mothering" equally between my younger siblings. I should have hugged him more, boasted about him generously and told him he was a good brother. I did that last night, repeatedly. Because it's true and it's honest.

He loves me

2008-10-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

I was gone most of the day yesterday, out romping around the countryside yarn shopping and goofing off with Kissed Knitter. While I was out having fun, my beloved Cynical tackled a little project just for me, just to make my life easier. When we moved in here, we made a few compromises in search of our own little American dream. We traded location for a smaller kitchen and basement storage for limited clothes closet space. Cynical very generously gave me the largest of the bedroom closets. The only catch is that I have to use a step stool to reach the bar. And there was a huge amount of space below, just waiting for a second tier. So, while I was visiting Enchanted Fibers and Crafty Hands, he made a trip to the hardware store, actually he made several, and when I came home I found his own version of a housewarming gift. . . space to hang my pants, which had been stored in the entry closet. He does love me.

In othe news, there has been knitting, quite a bit actually, but it tends to be slow going as I have been whittling away on larger projects. I've been using some incredible Briar Rose Wistful yarn to make a drop-stitch wrap. Great project, loving it. Wistful provides great yardage. Problem is it's taking me forever to knit all that yarn up.

I've also been making progress on the Tree Jacket. Might not seem like it, but the purling slowed me down a bit. I hope to truck on through the bottom part and start the arms soon. Tried it on last night and was pleased. Decided to take the garter stitch a bit further than the pattern called for to assure ample chest coverage.

Cats and chairs, cats in chairs

2008-10-07T15:07:00.000-07:00

I bought this chair, fringe and all, recently at a community yard/garage/rummage/tag sale. I'm afraid that the cats and I like it, but Cynical seems to be thrown by the fringe, suggesting we "shorten it", "cut it off" or remove it all together. He's begun describing it as the snooty grandmother chair. We call it luscious.

It's a democracy here and since I have the majority on my side, the fringe stays.

Izzie stakes her short-lived claim to the snooty grandmother chair.

Up and running (on empty)

2008-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

My batteries are partially recharged. I'm starting to feel like my old self, which may or may not be a good thing.

After a little dinner last night, some REM on Austin City Limits and a bit of knitting, I went to sleep yet again and slept through the night and farther into the morning than I usually do. It's amazing what that much sleep can do for a person.

Cynical and I went to the big E for a little shopping. He's in search of the perfect shoes. I was just along for the ride. As he conducted his extensive search, I tried on pants, lots of pants. And I am proud to report that I had to leave the dressing room in the middle in search of the next size down. I did my own little dance in the dressing room, but I caught a glimpse of myself and realized, yet again, that there wasn't that much to be proud of.

We're home now, with a load from Target, a new bookcase for the entry and new pants. (I had to celebrate a little.)

PS: Working away on the Tree Jacket in Mission Falls wool.

Yawn

2008-10-04T16:30:00.001-07:00

I'm tired. I mean really tired. I think that 80-hour week I worked post-storm, the party preparation week, the party itself, getting up and leaving in the dark to facilitate a 5K run this morning and a few sleepless nights in between caught up with me.

And by "caught up with me", I mean I took a three-hour nap today. I may never recover.

Poor Cynical is busy preparing dinner and I can't even form a cohesive thought. I am therefore staying away from hot pans and sharp objects until I am certified awake.

The food serving table at the party, waiting for food.

This one's for you girls. . . and you know who you are

2008-10-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

If only I could have found a good clip of the "gossipin' girls".

Trading

2008-09-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Amidst all of the talk of trading being down in the stock market and the throwing around of all sorts of financial terms that mean nothing to me, I had a little idea.

Let's do some trading of our own. Not stocks. Not commodities. Not even speculations. Let's trade something handmade or homemade as it may be.

I'm offering up mixed CDs and handmade dishcloths in exchange for whatever little goodies you'd like to make. I might even crank out some Tribbles if you please. Some "Handknitted by" tags, some mixed CDs or whatever your creative soul produces.

Anyone up for a little trading?

In other news:

I feel another Alanis hit coming on. . . see here.

And a good time was had by all. . .

2008-09-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Or at least I hope.

My only regret is that I didn't get more time with each of our guests, every last wonderful, loving, caring and rocking one of them.

It's beginning to look like a party around here

2008-09-26T14:08:00.000-07:00

It's starting to come together.

Party favors (knitted dishcloths) labeled and ready. Check.

Vintage table cloths washed and folded. Check.

Plastic wear wrapped and tied with a bow. Check.

Pumpkins ready to become center pieces. Check.

Party planning

2008-09-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

Seems I am obsessed with having enough tables and drinks for our guests, so much to the point that I have asked every single person who asks if there is anything we need for said shindig, to bring a table. I feel certain this is overkill. . . or is it?

Back to the real world

2008-09-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

When the wind storm hit Sunday, the plans I had for the week went down the drain and my focus shifted. My job requires that. So, a week of my life blown away in 75 mph gusts. Today was my first day not in the office or on site.

You'd think that we'd use the day to relax, but we didn't. You see, all of the things I had planned to do last week, still had to be done. We are hosting a house warming party this weekend, and are expecting about 40 people, so we got some stuff to do! Yard work, mum planting, house cleaning, silverware wrapping, napkin folding, drink shopping, table decoration planning and the list goes on.

We don't really have a theme for this shindig, just trying to do something specific to our tastes and welcoming to our guests. Scattering tables in our backyard, covering them with vintage cloths. Pumpkins, pine cones and candles will decorate each one.

Serving bbq unique to our little town. Even putting some of our favorite people up for a few nights. Planning to hang little white lights all over the yard (provided we come up with a plan on how to do so.) Giving away party favors: handknitted dishcloths tied with a bow.

Hoping the weather will be marvelous. Hoping to take lots of photographs. Hoping all of our guests can make it. Hoping a good time will be had by all.

Here's to a hectic week a work, lots of loose ends to be tied up for the party and only working during daylight hours.

Powerful

2008-09-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

We got power late Monday afternoon. No more lanterns. No more make-up by candle light. No food in the fridge.

Working long hours. Tired of hearing myself talk. Tired in general.

Isn't it romantic. . . maybe not

2008-09-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

My grandmother would have said that God was telling us we needed to slow down. Cynical, however, might have a different perspective.

Here's the scoop, winds over 75 mph hit our town yesterday, beating us for over 2 hours straight, changing direction. This combination took out lots of trees, downed power lines and did considerable damage. (We are safe and sound.)

And. . . over 75 percent of our community was without power (I think it's now down to 50 percent). Of course we are in that 75 percent. And we probably won't have power until Wednesday evening. Not complaining, given what the hurricane stricken areas are facing, just letting you know our own little dilemma, which pales in comparison.

So, we've done a bit of improvising. I worked most of the day yesterday. Cynical and I did some tidying up of tree limbs and leaves. That kept us busy for a bit. Then night set in. We managed that pretty well, digging out lanterns, finding a small battery radio and digging out a wind-up alarm clock. We also had to find a telephone that didn't require power. A simple thing, but frustrating none-the-less. I feel "tethered to the wall" now whenever it rings, unable to roam through the house as I gab.

Our neighbors congregated next door for some margaritas and everyone seems to be making the best of it.

This morning wasn't too bad, as I quickly showered knowing our electric hot water heater would empty soon. I even put my make-up on by lantern light. I twisted my wet hair up and made the best of it.

I'm back at work. Cynical is working happily at a local restaurant that features wi-fi. Our food, however, is melting as we speak in our warm refrigerator. Can't buy ice, there are 12,000 other people looking for ice. And speaking of ice, I expect my next shower to be a cold one.

One night in the dark was peaceful, caused us to reflect a bit and did make us slow down. However, another night without internet access, television or even a refrigerator is a lot less romantic. Maybe we'll spend it tossing thawed chicken, spoiled milk and nasty yogurt.

Dancing in the rain

2008-09-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

It took a while for Cynical and I to actually admit we "like-liked" each other and in the phases just prior to that confession, we went to a Hootie and the Blowfish concert with a bunch of my friends. At that time I wasn't much of a drinker, but I remember it being hot and humid, and so I bought a big old cold beer. It wasn't long after that it began raining. I had new Bohemian sandals on and in truly strange mix of hippiness and OCD, I took them off, put them in a plastic bag and danced on the muddy hillside with my Cynical.

I think Hootie gets a bad rap. I don't care if listeners gave up on college rock. I never really did. I still like me some Hootie, particularly when it makes me remember dancing in the rain. Came across my collection of their CDs, all of them. You know you love them, admit it. Hold my hand and sing along:

Theft and music

2008-09-11T19:11:00.001-07:00

When I left for college, I took a bunch of stuff including a stuffed lamb gifted to me at birth (which stunk for some reason), several pair of leggings and two tapes I had stolen from my brother. My brother, the one closest in age, was going through a prolonged Jimmie Hendrix phase, so I seriously doubt he missed his copies of "The Trinity Sessions" by the Cowboy Junkies and "X" by INXS. I am still not sure why I chose those. I hadn't listened to much INXS or the Cowboy Junkies. I didn't even have much of a tape collection myself. I just nabbed those two and apparently got lucky.

I have since replaced both tapes with CDs. If I do say so myself, I now have a pretty extensive Cowboy Junkies collection. I don't, however, listen to Margot's sweet voice enough. Enjoy. A little Lou Reed cover (now go over to youtube and listen to every Cowboy Junkies song out there.)

Still digging through my music

2008-09-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

After heaving a very large bookcase down a narrow set of stairs, I started putting my CDs, in alphabetical order, onto said shelving. In the midst of packing them, they had gotten a tad out of order, so it wasn't quite as seamless a task as I expected.

Cynical and I further attempted to weed down our CDs, eliminating some of the duplicates. I am not sure what it says about us as a couple, but we didn't have many; those we did have multiples of included Natalie Merchant, Hootie & The Blowfish, No Doubt, Dixie Chicks and REM. Never fear, I didn't have any K's Choice, Pink or Tori in my collection. He didn't have any Barry Manilow, Ben Harper or Cowboy Junkies.

While in organizing heaven, I listened to a little Natalie. Saw her at Lillith Fair many years ago and was in pure heaven as she sat in a huge swing and sang. I've been accused of attempting to dance much like her, waving my arms as if I was sitting in the passenger seat of a car and letting my hand ride the air current. Here's one for ya:

Here's the thing. . .

2008-09-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

last night I decided that I needed to go through all of my CDs and pare them down a bit. It's hard for me to part with music and books. I think it's the whole idea that I might, one day, be in the mood for a little Bill Withers or a good Mark Twain read. You just never know when that temperment might hit you. I can tell you, however, that I haven't had a Bill Withers mood or even a twinge of Mark Twain desire in quite some time. But you never know.

So, last night, before a meeting (which is important to note because that gave me a timeline to work with and kept the CD review from dragging out over the entire evening or for days on end) I sat in the middle of the floor in our den (can't call it a family room, as we don't have a family) and went through box after box of CDs. (They are still in boxes, mind you, because our behemoth sized CD bookcase won't fit down the &^%$# stairs.)

I couldn't part with ABBA's Golden Hits or that Del Amitri CD that took me back to a special place in time or that Justin Timberlake CD that makes me dance in the car. I also uncovered some gems I had forgotten about, including Jackson Browne's Greatest Hits. I listened to this all the way to work this morning.

Melancholy

2008-09-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

It's been a dark, dark day outside and I think that most of us here are wishing we were at home where we could put Burt's Bee's coconut foot stuff all over our feet, don white socks and spend the afternoon listening to the new Jakob Dylan album and finishing off that mint chip ice cream. Or maybe that's just me.

What I didn't do this weekend

2008-09-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

I didn't touch up the woodwork in our house.

I didn't make that last run to the storage facility for the remainder of our junk.

I didn't seam up the sleeves on my Puffed Sleeve Cardigan.

I didn't call my sister-in-law on her birthday.

I didn't watch "The Great Debaters" or "21".

I did have a yard sale. I did make some cashola. I did sell almost everything I had in it. I did giggle with my girlfriends the entire morning as we splayed all of our junk out on tables in the back yard in hopes that someone would want to fork over a quarter for an odd piece of tile, a book entitled "Let Me Tell You About My Feelings" and a slightly mishapen candle.

I did finish the cardigan and am left wondering why I didn't knit those sleeves in the round.

I did buy paint for touch-up because we were wrong when we thought we had some in the garage (hence my lack of painting.)

I did buy a new gown, completely solidifying myself as an old woman.

I did send my sister-in-law a goody package which I am hoping arrived in time for her actual b-day.

I did watch "August Rush" ('cause I can't pass up my Felicity.)

I did eat mint chip ice cream.

Oh, and I didn't take a single picture of any of it.

Hammock envy

2008-09-04T06:07:00.000-07:00

For ages I've wanted a hammock. I have had dreams of napping away spring afternoons. I have dreamed of reading the entire Anne of Green Gables series while curled up in my very own hammock. I have even explored the possibilities of knitting in one.

Alas, I don't have one. And as much as I tried to put this dream to rest, Soulemama awakened it yet again.

If only I could convince Cynical that we could indeed love and enjoy a hammock.

Cowls that don't moo (Look away, Phin)

2008-09-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

Starting from the top:

Luxe Cowl
A cowl pattern from a book co-written by Tracy Ullman. Yep, that Tracy Ullman. Used an alpaca yarn from Knitpicks (Decadence). Yummy and oh, so warm. It's over 90 degrees today, so I wasn't willling to wear it for too many more shots. It's a gift knit and stash buster. I'm hoping cowls are the new black.

Elisa's Nesting Tote
Got this pattern from Purl Bee and it was my first chance to do an applied I-cord (by now the non-knitters of you are distracted by a commercial promoting Ped Eggs). Used a very nice yarn (Araucania Pomaire.) Used smaller needles as I didn't want it to stretch and made the handles shorter for the same reason.

Dishcloths
Just a few quick dishcloths knitted up for our impending house blessing party (date has been set, invitations are ready.)

Dashing Mitts for Phin
Part of a little crafty trade with Phin. Ummm, I received her part of the trade a while back, and I need to share it with you. Her wonderful work rocks. These mitts are not an even trade, I owe her big. She trumps me every time when it comes to exchanges. I hope she's not disappointed about not getting them sooner, but something tells me she won't be wearing wool, handknitted fingerless mitts for a few more weeks (or months.) The color is waaaaaay off (they are actually much, much darker) and it's a little blurry . . . Again, I wasn't keen on a full-fledged photo shoot given it was over 90 degrees today and we shot these outside trying to get some good light. And did I say these were WOOL mitts?

The weekend in pictures

2008-09-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

It's Monday. Where did my long weekend go? What happened to the last three days?

Just a quick summary, as Cynical and Pilot have managed to summarize our weekend away very well. I won't go repeatin'. Headed to Illinois to visit friends/family. Got to visit with the whole crew: Needlefingers, Pilot, Brando, Rudy and the kids. Needlefingers welcomed me to the world of yarn dyeing*. Got a chance to play with two of the cutest kids on the earth. (Seriously, those kids are awesome!) Ate some pizza, some huge cinnamon rolls, ate at the Diary Dee not once (but twice), saw some chickens, lost my necklace, cursed my yarn, slept extremely well, didn't wanna come home, watched a few movies, did some knitting and am wishing I could go back.

As for today, we got up bright and early, our plans having changed when we learned we'd be hosting family. Did some errand running, bought a mattress and box springs for our second guest room, hosted family, took my mom shopping, grilled out, ate on the porch, packaged up some goodies to put in the mail, wrapped up some knitting, bought some super cute shoes.

I'm in the living room now, Cynical's in the kitchen working. I'm listening to my beloved sing along with a CD. It's good to be us.

Atop, we're rinsing our yarns post dyeing (including sock blank gifted to me by Needlefingers); few shots of our yarn dyeing. The pretty stuff belongs to Needlefingers, mine is the questionable stuff. And a chicken, 'cause who doesn't love chickens?

*Hoping to get you some finished product photographs. So grateful to Needlefingers for walking me through dyeing. Nothing like learning from a pro and so glad we had a few leisurely days to do it.

Coming soon: Finished project photographs.

Guess what we did today?

2008-08-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

We dyed yarn.

Dilemma

2008-08-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

We just earned ourselves a $25 amazon.com gift certificate. Cynical and I rotate these between us and last time it was his turn to spend the cashola. He didn't have much trouble piddling away his fundage, but I'm struggling. Too many options.

Tell me, what should I buy?

Catch up

2008-08-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy week. It's been a good week. It's been a bad week.

My mom is in the hospital. She'll be fine. It's more about antibiotic treatments and less about anything permanent, so don't fret. However, it's these times that bring out the worst in everyone. Why is that?

On the other side of that coin, we hosted two get-togethers at the house this week. Dear friends from our previous employer (where Cynical and I once worked together) joined us in christening our house yet again. . . this time with pizza, margaritas and the most incredible layered dip. (Yes, I am including what we ate, it was THAT good.) I am still talking about that dip. The next day I hosted my buddies from work in an impromptu tour and luncheon. It's so wonderful to share your home with others, to open it up to them.

Work has been a tad trying and I've found my feelings being a tad hurt. I hate that, getting your feeling hurt at work, it's supposed to be all business and no feelings. Sometimes that's just not possible.

I finished a book I've been trying to read for months, The Myth of You and Me. It's not that it wasn't good, it's that concentration has been a luxury and not a common thing. I've been distracted with the house, errands, project and summer.

Speaking of summer, it's gotten warm again and our time on the porch is limited. I already miss sitting out there. I know Cynical does as well. I'm now holding out until fall weather begins to creep in. I am encouraged by the fact I swept golden leaves off our porch last night.

I love my home. I don't know if I've said it that way. It's not about fancy. It's not about pride. It's about feeling like it's home. Now if I can just get the house blessing party planned, we might just have a big ole memory to tuck away.

And today we'll juggle our time between a visit by Cynical's parents and a few visits to the hospital. Wish us and them well.

I have a confession

2008-08-20T13:23:00.000-07:00

I love margaritas. Now I know I live in the Bible Belt. I know I'm the grand-daughter of a Baptist minister, but I cannot keep this secret any more.

I love them. I love margaritas.

On the rocks, with salt. And if it's in a styrofoam cup, I'm in heaven.

There you have it. I'm a lush and not always environmentally aware..

I even had two last night in the comfort of my home, surrounded by dear friends, laughing over old stories at my kitchen table as salt spilled across the table. And it was heaven, heaven on earth.

Photograph of my celebratory anniversary margarita.

Whew. . . that was a weekend

2008-08-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Um, I think we just had a weekend, but it flew by so quickly I barely remember it.

On Friday my beloved and I celebrated 12 years of bliss (or something similar) with dinner at a riverside restaurant and the purchase of new bedding. Nothing brings a couple together like shams.

Saturday marked the long-awaited birthday celebration with my friend of now nearly 30 years. We marked her 39th with a pedicure, lunch and a little shopping. That afternoon we made two trips to the storage facility and about 389 trips down the stairs to cram all of it into our basement storage area. My adrenaline was pumping, so I managed to get quite a bit put away, exiled to "yard sale" land or simply hidden from sight.

Today I got up early enough, despite tired muscles and sore calves, to take a walk before painting out front step and the screened porch. I am very proud of myself, although I have come to the conclusion that OCD and paint don't mix.

Cynical convinced me to put down the brush and join him in seeing "The Dark Knight", so I stashed my diet drink in my purse and we headed out. I'm so cheap. And hence two more boxes have been emptied out. I don't want Batman coming to talk to me about my lack of unpacking.

Managed to set up a little DVD station in my studio space. I have big ideas of watching my DVD collection while working on projects. A little background noise, if you will. And the box I got last weekend, makes a perfect spot for VHS/DVD storage. Kinda a boring shot, but I had to share. Can a tv get any smaller? It once lived in Cynical's office, but he donated it to the cause.

And I hate that song

2008-08-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

I had a bad day. And don't you go singing that annoying song. It's over now and I'm glad; we're all glad at Chez Ragged because when I have a bad day, I tend to share it. Not an admirable trait, but darnit, I can't help it any more than I can quit loving butter cookies.

It's over now. Cynical let me rant and rave and was completely on my side, which is his job afterall. Our motto: We're on the same team, don't go messing with either of us.

I probably needed to rant and rave some more, but I ran out of steam and had to go to sleep, plus I got distracted by the Olympics. God bless the Olympics. It's distracted me from my bad day, the fact that Russia entered Georgia and that we don't have side tables to sit our drinks on.

Thinking Back

2008-08-13T04:29:00.000-07:00

The replacement cord for our newer computer, the one with all of my newest photos on it, was defective, so we are waiting for a replacement cord for our replacement cord. We still have our older computer though and this morning I browsed some photographs that I hadn't seen in a while.

This one was taken during a geocaching/hiking afternoon with our friends, Pilot and Needlefingers. It just reminded me of that day, perfect weather, a nice place to play and watching the guys climb that fire tower. If I recall correctly it was about this time of year in 2005.

Just thought I'd share the photo.

In frame

2008-08-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

From the top:

Peppers at the Farmer's Market, where we picked up some locally-grown, fresh produce which we will dine on this evening.

Finished Austerman Step socks, using some yarn gifted to me by Kissed Knitter some time back. They don't match and that's by design, kinda liked that they seemed random and patternless. The yarn, by the way, is to die for, truly wonderful.

Found a rug for my studio, a painted canvas one, just big enough for me to spread out and work on projects.

Another dishcloth and Tribble set, this time it's in a color called Earth Ombre.

A metal box that I snagged at a yard sale over the weekend, not sure what I'll store inside, but something tells me it will be yarn. I am pondering keeping all of my journals here.

22 skeins of this yarn were gifted to me by my parents, who picked it up in Ireland. By the way, they came home yesterday. . . safe and sound.

Don't you know what the night can do

2008-08-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

I wasn't quick enough to take a photograph for you, but let me describe my perfect little evening. After dinner and some more shopping (seriously, this consumerism must end, it's making me all jittery), we came home and immediately planted ourselves on our little screened porch. It's unseasonably cool, not quite sweater weather, but a nice breeze reminds you that eventually autumn will be here.

The crickets and cicadas are working their nighttime musical magic. The cats are all sprawled out here with me, enjoying the cool floor.

I have an old white cat and a glass of wine nearby. I had purchased the wine many months ago, and was saving it for a special occasion. I had always thought it would be our first night in the house, but alas, right now seems more suitable. I'm only wishing for a hammock, some place where I could rock myself to sleep, as it's so very peaceful here, with only the glow of a light from our bedroom; that's where Cynical is, relaxing, each of in our own space for now, but near enough to know we are not alone.

I have found a little Jakob Dylan video on Youtube that is lulling me as I type. Earlier, along with my wine, I dined on some local blueberries, savoring each bite and thinking I was in pure heaven. I think I am there, in my own perfect, happy place, August 8, 2008.

By the way, today is my dad's 65th birthday; it's the first birthday we've ever spent apart. He's in Ireland, drinking a hard cider, I hope, thinking of me, as I am reminded of him.

Here a dishcloth, there a dishcloth, everywhere a dishcloth

2008-08-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

I sometimes have trouble finding dishcloth cotton in colors that I actually like. However, in a recent visit to a chain craft store, I found a few that turn my crank. So, I cranked out three more sets, getting a little closer to having enough for our house blessing party, which has yet to be scheduled. I have to admit these are incredibly satisfying knits: most take about one night to knit, they are so utilitarian and I get to play with neat stitches on a small scale. Oh, and I knit little Tribbles to go along with them.

Here's the information for those knitters among you:

I used size 7 straights on all three cloths; all use Lilly Sugar 'n Cream cotton.

Top photo:
Colorway: Guacamole (how could I not love it)
Pattern: My own, just knitted four rows, gave it a garter edge of about 4 stitches and stockinetted the rest.

Middle photo:
Colorway: Desert Rising
Pattern: Chinese Waves Dishcloth

Bottom photo:
Colorway: Tubleweed (This name does NOT fit the colorway)
Pattern: Tiny Fern Stitch Dishcloth

Also in the works:
Socks using some Austermann Step (with jojoba and aloe) yarn that was gifted to me by Kissed Knitter some time back. Lovely colors and so wonderful to knit with.

A puffed sleeved cardigan from Fitted Knits that is starting to seem too big, but I am just not sure; so it's on the backburner.

And some cute Tickled Pink socks using some Shibui in a colorway called Peony.

There! How's that for some boring knitting news?

I'm so flattered, so I'll spread the kudos

2008-08-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

Farmwife gave me an award; and even though I don't have anything red-carpet-worthy, I humbly accept her generous offering, knowing full well I don't deserve it.

It's a big cloudy as to the real origin of the Arte Y Pico Award, but I'm all up for handing out honors of my own, so I will certainly play along.

Here are the rules as set forth by Farmwife.

1) Show the award. Link back to the blog that gave you the award.

2) Pick 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award because of creativity, design, interesting material, and contributions to the blogger community, no matter of language, and link to them.

3) Leave comments on the blogs to let them know you've given them an award. (OK, I am skipping this one in hopes that everyone makes it over here to find their name.)

4) Show the link to the Arte y Pico blog , so everyone will know the origin of this award.

5) Show these rules.

And the winners are, in no particular order: (and some of you won't be named because Farmwife already gave you kudos, so let's spread the love and share with others.)

1) Willow Grace (aka Madretz; I won't blather on about how great her artwork is, that's too easy. I don't think you can go there without feeling and reading her incredible attitude. It's so refreshing.)

2) Trying to Grab Some Happy (aka Phin; again, her artwork is moving and stunning; but I also like to read about her "adventures". So green with envy.)

3) Emily (Even though she's been on a blog break, I still catch myself visiting her blog just in case.)

4) Needlefingers & Pilot (Because everyone needs a good knit fix and some questionable packaging art.)

5) Brando & Rudy (Who doesn't love reading about those kids and some dead fish never hurt anyone.)

And a sixth one, that's sort of unofficial. She'd have made the list if only she posted more often. . . hint, hint: Kissed Knitter.

How did we not know?

2008-08-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

Cynical and I were listening to an online radio station recently and "She-Bop" by Cyndi Lauper came on. How did I not know what that song was about when it originally aired? How did I miss that?

Leaf at Centennial Park in Nashville.

Sunday morning: a new take

2008-08-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Sunday mornings have long been by far my very favorite time of the week. I think it's because there is an air of peacefulness about the day in general, particularly those first few hours.

I think that one of the perks of this house is that truly lends itself to a lazy-daisy morning. For instance, this morning we took a leisurely walk to Starbucks, where I sat and read my book while Cynical people-watched. My beloved, a supporter of the McDonald's empire, then persuaded me to walk up the block to golden arches where he nabbed some breakfast, walked to the ATM and then we meandered back to the house. I have big plans to head out to the screened in porch soon where I might read a bit more or knit. I might even venture into the yard and water our newly planted Lantana. For now I'll watch a the CBS Sunday Morning news, which I recorded while we were out walking.

Soon we'll knock out a few chores, but for now I am going to enjoy my new neighborhood, our new house and the new version of Sunday peace.

Sunflowers at a recent Farmer's Market.

Saturday. . . Saturday (think Elton John)

2008-08-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

Our day began very early and ended very late. Cynical and I took my folks to the airport today. I felt kinda like a parent sending their kids off to camp. I reminded them to be kind to each other and not wander off with strangers.

They are destined for Ireland, a lifelong dream of my moms, a lesser wish of my dad's. By now they are well into their seven hour flight from Chicago to Dublin. Pray that my dad is able to curb his smoking habit and not go bullistic on the other passengers. Please pray my mom doesn't try to fake Irish heritage.

We introduced my parents to Moe's on the way there. After we dropped them off and visited a bit; Cynical and I went shopping. Apprently, my beloved has adapted quite easily to our new consumerist lifestyle, as he came home with a new wardrobe.

I, on the other hand, did pick up some new lounge pants (for those of you that know me well, be grateful, as my old ones were wearing thin and nearing the embarrassing stage; no more fear of seeing more of Ragged than you intended), some shirts for work (which makes me sound like I work at a gas station: work shirts), a new toothbrush (extra soft, not easy to find) and a few other odds and ends (including some new unmentionables, a bracelet and contact solution. . . hold onto your seats, this blog is full of excitement. Where else can you read about tooth brush and contact solution purchases.) I also did manage to squeeze in a yarn stop, where I got some Cascade Eco Wool planned for a sweater, and a little Malabrigo for some Christmas gift projects.

My folks have a slip of paper in their bag that details the amount and weight of the yarn I am expecting them to bring back. Let's see how well they follow instructions.

I'm off to bed soon, spending money exhausts me; earning it also wears me out.

Per request. . .

2008-08-01T18:57:00.001-07:00

Our new couch, chair and ottoman. It's this great sueded fabric that feels, in the words of Felicity, "amazing".

It's all a little matchy-matchy for me, so we'll break it up with some vintage finds and some funky pillows. All of this consumerism is starting to make me antsy.

Edited to add: No Minnie Pearl comments, for some reason I can't cut the tags off just yet.

I feel so grown up

2008-08-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

For a long time I never even had a kitchen or dining table. I'm so grown up. Watch out, I might just buy some Bisquick or join the Ladies Auxilliary.

PS: This was delivered today. Just so you know, it's a "pub table" (just learned that term myself) and we have two more chairs on the way. . . because. . . get this: it has a leaf. I am a woman now.

I interupt this rant for some knitting news

2008-07-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Koolhaas

Pattern: Koolhaas by Jared Flood

Needles: US 6/4.0 mm and US 8/ 5.0mm

Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted Merino Rattan 504

Completed: June 29, 2008

Notes: Finished this a while ago, but just now getting a chance to post it. The photo doesn't do the color justice, it's more of a buttery cream. Loved the Malabrigo. . . could definitely get addicted to it and the hat feels amazing.

Diagonal Knit Dishcloth

Pattern: eLoomanator's Diagonal Knit Dishcloth by Jana Trent

Needle: US 7/4.5 mm

Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Naturals Sonoma Print

Completed: July 27, 2008

Notes: Just another in my obsession with dishcloths. I knitted a Tribble to go along with it to make a set. Some day I'll have enough sets for our house blessing party favors.