Long Time, No Post

Here is the newest addition to our family, and a life goal realized. Tony has always wanted a Chevy TopKick (ton and a half truck). It's the newest vehicle we own, a 1999. He has plans for modifications up the waazoo. I'm just hoping he fixes the passenger window!
The track meets are done for the season and I was able to finally stop at the LYS and show Mary some of my work. The Dutch Oven Yarn Shop has been around for as long as I can remember. I even got some bargain shopping in.
Let's see, what else has happened??--My birthday was May 2, Tony's birthday was May 22 (yea, ain't that funny). I'm 345 days younger than my hubby. We have both reached our mid-40s.
Here's something I'm looking forward too--blueberries! And the strawberries are blooming right now.
This being Memorial Day weekend, is the traditional time to plant the garden in Northern Michigan, but it's raining now :( And we were up at 5:40 this morning taking clothes off the clothes line! I left them up last night not expecting rain this morning.
I was all geeked for this weekend, making lists, planning plans, and what did I do yesterday? I managed to get clothes on the solar powered dryer (AKA clothes line) and then I sat on the couch and watched goofy sci fi movies for most of the afternoon. I knit of few rows of Candle Flame Scarf, napped and knit a few more rows. Now I've discovered I have a boo-boo.
Ok, so it's real hard to see because I couldn't get the camera to focus when I got closer, but in the circled area there are 2 too many stitches! Some things I'll let go, like the extra yarn overs in the first set of candle flames. They don't change the look of the intended pattern. But this is just screaming at me!! I will be frogging a few rows today!

Spring in the North Country

It does look a bit barren. This 80 acres of state owned land was logged off 2 years ago. Spring here in Northern Lower Michigan has been very dry so far. But in a couple weeks (and hopefully a couple inches of rain) this will look very different.

We don't have the lushness (yet) that I've seen posted from southern and western bloggers by now. But Mother Nature is at work quietly.
In the underbrush, ankle level we found this->. Blueberry bushes leafing out. Yes really in that barren looking field, the whol 80 acres is full of them.

W
H
A
T

is Jane doing? Hunting chipmunks. She spent about 5 minutes trying to catch this one. It ran back and forth in the log just toying with her. Then ran out the other end and up a tree.

Jane is my therapist. She walks with me, listens to my rants and assists in all my doings including gardening, laundry and knitting. Our walks are very benefitial for my spiritual self. I used to feel guilty about not attending (sitting painfully in) a church regularly. I now consider these walks my worship time. Being of the earth, I need to commune with it almost daily. My spirit is much lifted with walking. Blessed Spring to you!

Volunteer Extrordinaire!

This is the first post since track and field season started 3 weeks ago. What have I been doing? This week when like so--
Sunday: shop for track meet ($290 of candy!)
Monday: work til 3, track meet from 3:30 to 8:45 (13 schools)
Tuesday: work til 3, sleep
Wednesday: Work til 3, sleep
Thursday: Work til 3, track meet from 4 to 6:30
Friday: walk, garden, laundry, and then ??? hubby asked if I had plans for tonight. Is he up to something?
Next week meets are Tues and Thurs (big one again 14 schools)
I haven't had hardly a minute to do any knitting until today.
Machine knitters meet tomorrow, so I better get something made before then.

Slacker!

That would be me. Not that I've been slacking in my whole life--no. Just blogging. I finished the Cardinal Cardis and gifted them away last Sunday. Sweet, Sweet pleasure of gifting.
Only walked 1 day this week. Did run 2 track meet concessions though. They're a lot of work but I forget to drink water. Then I just ache afterward.
Added insurance to the teeny truck, got Easter stuff, knit, but no walking.
I've started on the Candle Flame wrap free download from KnitPicks using Gossamer instead. Pictures soon.
Now to start on the list for today--bank, last minute groceries for Sunday, walk, laundry, clean the house.
Happy Easter to those that celebrate--Ostara was celebrated in March!!

Just Wait, the Answers Will Come

Norma is a bit moody, as am I. I sympathize with her. Now add to that--an industrious 16 year old who's never home because she's working and an almost 20 year old trying to find herself (in my household). Enter my day off and some time to surf. What did I come across? Yahoo horoscope for moi, a Taurus--
Talk about stressed. You've been worried about a dear one for what seems like forever, and you're not ready to quit just yet -- especially because they're refusing to take your advice. The advice they asked for, by the way. Well, you can only do so much. Keep that in mind, and don't feel bad if they do something that you know won't help their cause. You can help others, but you can't live their lives for them. Sure, it's been said before, but it's true.
The answer was there--the answer to the question that's been driving me nuts for months. I can't live her life for her--BUT--I can reinforce the household rules!! :)
On the walking front, I had 7 miles in by Tuesday at 5 p.m., then slacked Wednesday for homebody stuff (making dinner and dessert) and Thursday because of said almost 20 year old annoying the hell out of me. Back at it today, going for 10 miles this week! Oh, and the taxes are done and the new printer is installed.
On top of that, Jane (the most Precious Lady Jane, chocolate lab extrordinare, and semi-human family member) took on the spring animal challege. On Monday, the vernal equinox, spring began at 1:21 p.m., GMT. A mere 53 hours later, Wednesday evening, 10 p.m. EST, she found a waking skunk!
Hooray, spring is here!

2nd Try

Looky Looky, I did it! 3 Cardis on the bed.
On the right is #2 in the progress of duplicate stitching (Swiss darning) the branches and birds. The thought of carrying bobbins of 5 different colors and trying to follow the graphs was not my cup'o tea, and I have done very little Swiss darning. Now I'm getting proficient at darning both right and left handed. ( I be a lefty!)
The ribbing was all knit by hand, the body of each (red) was zipped up on the machine, and the yoke was returned to a circular needle and knit by hand and the gauge is very accurate throughout.


I've also done some prototype work for an interior designer I met recently. She has designed some of the most adorable stuff for kids rooms. And she has an adorable butterfly cursor!

Looky-Looky! No Not Really

Check it out--making progress!!! 3 cardinal cardigans in progress. I finally made a point to take some pics. Birds on one done, birds on two doing, birds on three waiting.
So why won't the damn pictures load!!!!!
Maybe tomorrow.
On the fitness front, walking more every week; but no change on the scale!!!!!!!!!!AAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGG! Will it ever change?? Maybe the blood pressure is going down, one can only hope.
Stephanie--love the new office!! I'll give a tour of my pig-sty next week.

Business Busy and Special People

Yep, so I wanted to go into business for myself. And 2, count'em, 2 paying jobs have fallen into my lap this week. Hooray! 7 choir gowns and 2 vests to alter along with 20 necklaces for same. And then some prototype work for an interior designer!! And I'm ahead of schedule with both!
And not to forget one the most important men in my life--

Happy Birthday Dad!!

What would I like you to know about my DAD? I think he is one of the smartest people I know. He is a fabulous woodsmith, great cook and gardener extrordinaire. I hope someday to grow up and be just like him!

94.5" and Counting

I see that I haven't posted recently--I'm so lame. But it's been snowing here, up to 94.5" for the season. "To right you see the Exploder (Ford Explorer) in the back yard and yes that is a pile of snow my hubby has plowed--that's a small pile. And I cheated and took the pic through the window because it was -2 F this morning. Consider this--IF the Exploder is 6' tall AND the snow is piled higher than the Exploder THEN the snow pile is more than 6' high. That is the extend of my higher math skills. And remember, that's one of the small piles of snow. A quick check shows at least 8 snow piles from the plowing, some being 40 feet long and blocking the view of the neighbors homes!

On the other hand, I have been walking regularly; 4 days this week. My butt's really nice shape and the belly is shrinking but no weight loss to register yet. The goal is to bring the blood pressure down from 140/90 (which caused the Dr. to panic!!), and I also found out it reduces night sweats (yes, already at 42) and eases the early arthritis--geez, my life sucks!!!
To all those that participated in the Knitting Olympics--Great Job!!! I just never got around to registering. I did register to participate in Trisha Shafer's Round Yoke Sweater Knit-Along and then set a tremendous goal of finishing all THREE round yoke sweaters--Mary Maxim Cardinal Cardigans by the end of February.

Snow Again

This is the beauty of Northern Michigan, just wanted to share with those of you who don't have such beauty in your world. If you don't get snow--just imagine waking up in the morning and everything being crystal clean again, pure and white!!

New Book!

Got my first Yarn Harlot book this week!!!! Steph, you're great--I thought you'd be blonder. Love ya babe!

Friday again

No pics, sorry. I sent the two sweaters I've made recently to work with hubby. They were baby size sample nordics.
Nordic research has been difficult at best--everywhere I look on the web just sells nordics, hard to find info about the history of these beautys. I did find a catalogue with lovely pics which i'm using for reference. Next move will be to get a book on Norwegian sweaters, history of the sweater and the land they came from.
A local radio station has 'No Refusal Fridays'--looking for obscure music from the 60s to the 90s to play. J and I have begun a list of obscure requests. What fun!!!
The weekly walking is going well, 4 days last week, only 2 so far this week but there are 2 more days.

Really, Jane, You're a Dog

In contrast to Yarn Harlot's problem with her pet; this was next to me when I woke up this morning. I was under the green/yellow blanket, she was snuggled up next to me. I'm not sure how I rate in this relationship, I always end up with her butt at my face. In dog-ese is that good? Earlier in the morning, on the far side of the bed was the hubby. So Jane was sandwiched be-tween the two of us.
On the knitting front I zipped up a pair of pants to see how they would work out. Elastic waist, straight legs, forest green. Gosh, I could take a picture couldn't I.
Next project is a couple Nordic style sweaters. I'll make a wee one first to see how everything works out. The yarn is som 2/24 acrylic from a friend who had her own company and did production knitting. A cone of 2/24 (3 pounds) last FOREVER!!!! even when running to strands together!

Trail Walking

On one of our trail walks, not possible now because of the snow, Jane Dog and I came upon this. Yes, this is a chair in the middle of the trail, facing south, around 4 p.m., hence the shadow.


It's strange what you find in the woods in Northern Michigan.
This is one of the crooked trees on my trail.


What I'm looking for here is some encouragement--it's ok to enjoy life a bit, not everything I do has to be for others. This is for me--walking for cardio, mental, spiritual and overall fitness. Enjoy the beauty of my world.

Another Day, Another Headache

Isn't that just cute! It's a little man suit,
cardigan, shirt and shorts in forest green.
I had to force myself to keep working on it.
First the shorts, easy enough.
Then the cardi, drop shoulder, v neck.
Then the shirt. But I got it all done. Now just to sew on the tags and buttons.
Now, for some reason I've had a headache most the afternoon, then a tummy ache. Neither seem to be terminal, just annoying.
Last week, locally, was very sad. A senior at the high school took his own life on Thursday. Then on Friday, while a gentleman was skiing, he died suddenly, age 49. His wife works at the school! The town is silently waiting for #3.
On a similar subject--this is the third suicide in as many years in the area. That doesn't count the attempteds that were unsuccessful. We are a small rural community of approximately 2000. That seems pretty high statistically as far as I'm concerned. I personally have had my own dealings with depression and am concerned how families are handling this sensitive subject. I believe talking openly with family is good, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects such as death. Keeping it all inside caused much distress for me and my family. Openness and discussion helped me so much more.
I think of the families affected and pray for them often. Blessings to all.

January is Here

These are the sweaters I made for my son-in-law and the other two daughters boyfriends (long term). Dakota Rib by Jason Wurst of Rocking Horse Farms. It's a v-neck, saddle shoulder, ribbed sleeve sweater. All three boys just LOVED them. Dark blue for AC, cream for JEM and dark navy for Bubba.
Since the holidays I have made a sweater and socks for the hubby, socks for me, a red and black baby sweater, and 2/3 of a little man suit of cardigan, shorts and shirt. Next I'm making something for the most important person--ME.
On the national front, Michigan, the state I call home, is #1 in something--we are the fattest state in the nation! Isn't that exciting!

Happy Holidays

Have a wonderful holiday season. PC is not my style, I celebrated Dec. 21, Yule but I did't want to exclude the christians.
I still have one sweater to knit tonight for J. She's traveling 'downstate' to visit her Bubba and will be back tomorrow depending on the weather. This is her first holiday away.
Blessings to all--Witchknitter

Long Time, Lot's of Knitting Done

Yea, I know, I know, but I've gotten so much done!
The nieces are getting scarf and mitten sets. These are for Becky, Amy and Nicole.
The boys will be getting something different which can't be shown here yet.
I survived hubby's Xmas party, just him and me and the owners, talk about stressful!!
I'm down to just a few more gifts, one for C, one for J and one for the hubby. Then I can start on the coffee ladies gifts, but those will be for January.
Oh, and almost forgot--Dad loved his vest! And it fit! The antique, one hole, buttons look great. And Mom loved her vest too. Basic black and white is always a hit, especially now that Ruthie lives with them.
I will try to post more often, even with the holidays coming and all the knitting to be done.

Why Am I Not Knitting?

I don't know . . .
I should be
the house is clean
the kitchen is clean
(after Tuesday's blow up)
I should be knitting.
It's not that I don't have anything to knit. I need to make a gift for Saturday; Tony's sweater; JEM's sweater; 3 nieces and 1 nephew gifts; at least 1 for J and 1 for R, something for C, something for ME. The list of spec knits is getting longer, woollie mitts to send out to 2 different places, tags to sew into knits, but noooooo

I think

I'll

take


a nap :)

Snow Update

The snow from the last pics has gone



And then come back!!!
We have about six inches on the ground. Hear tell that the temp is supposed to be around 45F tomorrow and it will all go away again.
It did make for a wonderful 'An Indian River Christmas'. There was snow all around, the temp Friday night was 28ish and beautiful. The parade (new this year) was short and sweet. Santa arrived on dog sled again and was taking orders at the town hall per usual. Soup pots were hot and tasty. Tony sampled potato soup and I had some hamburger soup--mmmmmmmmmm.
Jane and I had a nice walk through town and visited with some nice peeps and pups.
Today, Jane and I visited with Elliot (her boydogfriend) and Jan and went for a walk down the road. The trail is snow covered and it's still firearm hunting season. Without her safety vest, it's best to walk the road now. Don't want to chance her (or me) getting shot at.
Finished two sweaters this week for Yule gifts, and that's the extent of my knitting.
Hope all had a wonderful Turkey day Thursday. It was calm at home. Thank goodness! I now understand why my dad likes to stay at home for the holidays. He's SO SMART!!! hence 'The Wise Old Owl' name.

Color Changes in the Weather

According to my posts, one month ago the colors of the trees were a full spectrum of warm shades, oranges, yellows, reds, browns. Now the spectrum has changed to the coolness of winter, white, grey, black, green, blue. Okay, so there is a brown spot on the right, but she is a lovie:)

I've completed the knitting on the Dakota Rib, now to block it.
Last Friday I attended a workshop on small businesses, sponsored by Michigan State University Product Center.
Last night our Boosters served over 300 at the annual fall sports banquet. We provide the potatoes, ham, rolls, coffee and punch. The families bring a dish to pass and table service. All the fall coaches sing praises to their athletes which include in our smallish school--golf, cross country, girls basketball, cheer team and football; approximatley 100 students and their parents attend. Last year I announced awards for the cheer team since I was the coach. Not my favorite thing to do (public speaking), but I do enjoy helping the Boosters since I'm a do-er, not a delegater.
Today is my day of rest and work at home. The list of things to do includes:
1. clean the garage so the car can sleep in there
2. laundry
3. supper (maybe a roast and potatoes?)
4. KNIT
5. rest my aching back
6. listen to a movie
7. walk to loosen up the aching back
8. don't need #3 since the kids are having a mexican dinner tonight to raise money to go to mexico
9. make a decision whether or not I will let R go to mexico (any advice regarding letting a 16 yr old travel to mexico w/school group would be appreciated)

Flexible? Not Cotton!

Six hours knitting yesterday--heaven? NO, learning experience. After six hours of trying different methods of casting on with some chonchenhocken cotton I finally decided it wasn't being made into the lovely ribbed and lace cardi I wanted to make. Cotton is for simple and plain, cool and comfy. I was mostly frustrated because I wasted six hours of uninterrupted knitting time reminding myself of this fact.
So I started on the Dakota Rib by Jason Wurst at Rocking Horse Farms. I got the pattern last year at the Great Lakes Machine Knitters Seminar. I plan to make a visit to their farm and shop in Minnesota. Jason and his mother Carole are great knitters, designers and people all around!
On Wednesday, I'm getting another aquarium with 3 fishes from me momma. She has decided to be done with the fishes and offered them to me first, I think. Tonight and tomorrow I will need to engage the assistance of the other household members and visitors (AKA JEM and Big Bubba) to move furniture around the living/dining room and kitchen.

Can You See Her??

Friday--Success again with the camera. This is Jane walking in the field across the road (with her vest). Can you see her???? On the right she's posing.
On the left she's sniffing for critters.


And here is a the small but comfy 'Kingdom of Witchknitter and Magic Mechanic'.And here is Jane performing one of her daily duties--
carrying in the mail.
Is she missing something???? Oh goodness, where is the beautiful safety vest?

It seems the vest is akin to the Cinderella story, after a certain amount of time, it just disappears!! Or it's LOST IN THE FIELD!

Saturday--I forced Jane to walk again and look for her vest. No luck, but I don't think she was looking very hard.

Sunday--It rained all night so I don't think we'll walk today. So knitting is in order--ALL DAY!!!

A-HAAA!

I did it! There was a technical difficulty--the computer and the camera didn't like the disks--now the disks are trash! I would have prefered the outside pics, but these will do.

Pictured here is famous model Precious Lady Jane in her hunter orange safety vest. She enjoys walks in the woods, chasing squirrels and snuggling 'tween me and hubby. The pic to the left is her 'why are you making me sit still when we should be going for a walk," pose and below is the dejected, "ok, I'll just wait on the couch until you're ready," pose.


Hunter orange is a fashion color in Northern Michigan particularly popular this time of year. Mostly seen on men, this fashion is dictated by the state during firearm whitetail deer hunting season, Nov. 14-30. Anyone in the woods is advised to wear this fabulous color or risk getting shot, really. This is not an intentional thing, but some of the 'mighty hunters' only hunt during this season and some have been known to get "Buck Fever," a debilitating undiagnosed disease in which the afflicted has lost the ability to distinguish between a whitetail deer and any other critter. (Victim critters being shot at as a result of "Buck Fever" are: cattle, horses, dogs, hunting buddies, elk, duck, turkey, basically anything that moves.)
Moving on--
I've had a few dreams as of late. The first one was about J's Big Bubba (formerly seen here in pics knitting). I dreamt he got fired from his job. The dream was a Friday night. I mentioned this to them on Saturday. On Tuesday--he got fired!
The next dream was of the shop I've been thinking about opening. The dream showed a small shop, doing very well, and me--happy, happy--working in my shop. What was in the shop, knitting and crafting stuff and since it was my shop, I could have Jane there to help me.
(The next dream I had I killed somebody because he was SO ANNOYING. I hope that one doesn't come true.)
So the next step of this business venture is to make some plans. I started those (at my other job) earlier this week. I'm also going to attend a business start-up workshop next week--it met my criteria: 1. Nearby, 2. less than a day long, 3. FREE. It's being offered through Michigan State University.

Bright Orange Jane Safety Vest

And what do you see?
Nothing.
Why?
Because I took a couple great pics of Jane in her new vest after our walk, but technology SUCKS and the disk wouldn't let go of the pics. I will try again tomorrow. She was so pretty and proud in her vest. Now she knows that putting on the vest means going for a walk. She's glad to let me put the vest on her.
I skipped physical therapy in trade for walking with the dog today. I may go back to the chiropractor to relieve this numb thumb. It worked before and this therapy thing has been going on for just too long with little relief. Not only that, battening down for winter is behind schedule--storm windows need to be put up, hoses tucked away, garden winterized and it's already November!

Diversions

I want to go, but then again, I need to make the break so I'm hoping for some diversions today. Tonight is the last football game of the season--I coached the cheer team for 7 years and this is my first year as a 'non-coach'. I really would like to go to the game and see what the girls came up with for the season finale, but after the events of last week with the confrontation and crap, and the creeping thought in the back of my mind-- starting a yarn/craft store--I'm hoping for some diversions.
Knitting like crazy today would be a diversion, my list of need to knits is at least 12 items long: socks, wrist warmers, sweaters for the hims, sweaters for the hers, gloves and a Mush Mouth hat (from Fat Albert). I also have a jammys pattern and a mens underwear pattern I'd like to try. Then there's the Knit Picks yarn that I ordered, waiting patiently for, de dum, de dum, de dum.
I finally called for a hair appointment--that's later this morning. It has been 4 months since my last trim, I think I'm due. I also need to go get baked beans for the pot luck tomorrow.

More Beauty

Yea, this is the view out my front door. Vibrant colors raining down in the wind. And again I ask, why live anywhere else than Northern Michigan???? To answer Kerstin, crazydaisy.us question, the tip of the mitten just a bit south of the Mackinaw Bridge.
Yesterday was busy and usual northern MI weather. First I blogged, then did some laundry, went for a walk down Jane's favorite
trail, zipped off to knit club,
then physical therapy. That's when
things turned for the worse--someone had to give me the bad news--I had a flat tire! When and where did that happen, aaahh, I remember a strange noise on my way home from knitting club near the contractors place. At 4 my knight in shining blue truck arrived to air up my tire so I could drive home. He's fixing it today. And no, he's not available for rent or hire, he's my knight.
There is more to add to the New Knitters story--J and Big Bubba are knitting, R is knitting and now so is R's boyfriend JEM is too!!! That's 4 new knitters in less than a week. Big Bubba was asking if it was possible to make a sweater with the Nifty Knitters. Oh, and we had three new knitters at knitting club! That makes 7 new knitters in a week! Knit On!

Will I Ever Learn

I don't deal with confrontation well, in fact I'd rather not deal with it at all. So I'm done--I'm done with that portion of my life. I've moved on. In fact I have no desire to look back at all. And I would like to say to all parents out there--your children are not the same children away from home as they are at home. The messy ones are usually neat; the quiet ones can be mouthy. But that's just my experience after 7 years of coaching and 21 years of raising my 3 children.
Today being the day after the confrontation (in which I was confronted) I'm thinking about what I would like to do with my extra time--KNIT. Now that that is decided I will move toward that goal.

New Knitters

Aren't they just the cutest? J is on the right, her fiance Big Bubba on the left. She's 5'4", he's 6'6", both 19.
I bought the Nifty Knitter kit last Friday at WalMart for me, wanted to try it because I knew it would be mindless Zen work. J's little sister R started Saturday for lack of something better to do, her homework was all done. J asked about it Sunday and picked it up using three strands of baby yarn. On Monday, Big Bubba came to visit and ended up going to work with her. He saw it and wanted to try it. Three feet of knitting later she bought her own set and he bought his own yarn!!!!! Just had to share!!!

Natural Beauty in Northern Michigan

Yes, the leaves are green, red, orange and yellow. This is an oak in my front yard. In Northern Michigan we do get snow in the winter, cold weather, blizzards--but we also get beautiful colors in the fall. Why would I want to live anywhere else?

Just More Words

Returned from the great Grand Rapids trip--Great Lakes Machine Knitters Retreat. More great classes, great instructors and demonstrations including Charlene Schafer of Knit Knack Shop in Peru, IN; Tricia Schafer (her daughter) of Knitter's Edge; Cathie and Frank Sanders of Northtipton Creations and Vicki M. Tylock. Each with their own obsession, each with their own humor. It was a weekend well worth the time and effort to get away.
Next post I should have some pictures to post since the trees are starting to change colors, a wonderful seasonal change in Northern Michigan.

Technology!!?

Technology baffles me sometimes. I THOUGHT I posted pictures of my swatches.
So instead, I will post a picture of my 'Sheeps' afghan. I guess I won't.

Good news, I've started knitting Yule gifts already! Got one nearly done. Now what to do with it? Hide it, wrap it; wrap and hide it??
I think I'll go back to the knitting room :)

Can't Decide--Help Me Choose

The next project is a sweater featured in INKnitter Summer 2005, page 10/11. I've selected a multi-color find from e-bay and want to blend with a solid. These are my swatches thus far.


All in 2x2 rib T6 on Brother 970; top photo--1. Multi-color alone; 2. multi w/bright gold;3. multi w/grey
Bottom--4. multi w/deep green; 5. multi w/black

Thanks for your vote!
I, again, have decided to MAKE all the holiday gifts this year. Now if I could find something to knit for my hubby. He's not a sweater person, even in the dead of winter in northern Michigan he doesn't wear sweaters. He's similar to a polar bear or siberian husky. I swear he would sweat sleeping in a snow bank!!!
As for me, I like the cold weather cuz I get to wear sweaters with sweaters! with socks and mitts to match!
I'm feeling better about evicting the big boy--I realized (and I don't know if he just doesn't understand or doesn't care) that he really hurt me and my family by asking for help but not taking our advice and using us. How stupid could I be? really?!
I don't mind helping others when they need it, but those that take and take, I can't stand. OK, that's enough of that.
I've got knitting, cleaning, sewing and gardening to do, and I may submit to a walk with Jane, the 'shroom dog'.

Nada? and Anniversarys

Geez, I thought with the beautiful pictures of my creative space I would have had 1 comment. Boo hoo, Boo hoo. That's ok, I've seen some of your spaces and I am as much a neat freak as any creative person.
I finally broke down and bought another copy of Socks, Socks, Socks since mine has been MIA for several years. I know it's not in the 'creative space' because that space is new this summer. So I took a nap this afternoon with Socks, Socks, Socks close to my heart. Jane would have been jealous except for the 90 degree weather--Indian Summer has struck.
Today marks the 24th anniversary of our wedding--I took the Mr. to dinner at the local ritzy place and we hob-nobbed with the cream of the town. Next year will be 25 years together--I've been married longer than I was single!!!

Late, But As Promised

Hand knit socks from grandma's 2 Needle Sock pattern from 1955.

First Place








Below is Machine knit summer top that I showed earlier--First Prize.

And also First Prize was the ensemble made for C's wedding in June. The skirts and top are sewn, the corset is my first project in Tunsenian Crochet. The top is the lovely lilac in the upper right corner. BTW, the fabrics were being sold as curtain fabrics.
The green and coral floral underneath is an unfinished suit of mine. The lining is the floral. Someday I'll finish it.


Now this little piece is a 'baby onsie' pattern I've been developing. It buttons or snaps at one shoulder and I usually use the squish on snaps for the crotch so I don't have to make button holes. This one is for C's friend who's baby is due next month.

And the piece-de-resistance is shown here: The Creative space of Denise.

Ommmmm

So I kicked him out, then I cried.
I don't know if he is just playing dumb or doesn't get it.
But, he's a survivor, he's made it this far mooching and so has the rest of his family. I suppose they all will continue on a before.
Yes, I'm feeling calmer now that I made the decision

Moving on--I retrieved my fair entries from my friend. I placed with each entry as follows:
1. Beaudaciously yellow lace pants; 2nd place
2. Cute summer blue top; 1st place
3. R's Bride's maids gown from Con's wedding; 2nd place
4. Machine knit socks; 4th place
5. Hand knit socks; 1st place
6. Baby onsie; 2nd place
7. My pink sweater; 2nd place
8. Mother-of-the-Bride ensemble I made for me; 1st place
netting $111 for my efforts. Next year--more entries!!!!

Monday will mark the 24th anniversary of our wedding. Yes, I'm all of 42 and have been married 24 years. If you're mathmatically challenged that means I married at age 18, just 4 months after my 18th birthday. Why so young? Not what you think, the oldest is 21. I just knew he was 'the one'. I knew the first time I saw him at that Hallow's Eve dance. I was . . . .













13 . . . .














really.

I'm the Bitch!

I finally got fed up enough Saturday to kick the lazy bum out! Gosh it hurt to watch this large pitiful, gumpy boy (age 19) look at me with the questioning face saying, "I did clean the kitchen when you asked."
That was after 6 weeks of asking him to weed the garden, dig up the flower bed, sweep the living room several times, do the dishes, clean the bathroom, step up and help because my arm was out of commission.
Just for the record--the garden NEVER got weeded, the flower bed has a trench in it, the living room has dust bunnies the size of my 65 pound labrador, the dishes still had food on them, there is no sign of the bathroom being clean ANYWHERE!
I believe I have been overly generous 'helping' him out. In the 4 weeks he was unemployed, he applied for 4 jobs eventhough I told him of 4 places to apply each week and circled half a dozen ads each week in the newspapers for him each week. Mostly he said, "I don't want to do that kind of work."
He did find the time and money to attend a demolition derby, visit the water park, play putt putt golf and keep a supply of mountain dew around. He could also afford to throw away returnable cans (I'm not so rich).
Since I kicked him out he has been able to afford to travel 60+ miles round trip for shopping with a friend.
Maybe I was wrong, maybe I was right--I there are less dirty dishes in the sink and less dirt on the floor.
Now to change the subject--The Most Precious Lady Jane doesn't feel well right now. A few weeks ago she got into somes trash and ate yuckies, made her feel icky for a day. Today, on our walk, she snapped up something (maybe some toadstools) and has been acting very strangely all afternoon and evening. Usually she jumps at the sound of the goodie bag. This afternoon when we rattled the bag she opened glazed eyes and looked at us like we were aliens.
I don't know what she ate, but she tossed up some mac and cheese (we haven't had any in a few days), and is wobbly when she sits, stands and walks. It being a holiday weekend, we'll keep an eye on her. I can imagine how she feels if she ate some 'shrooms--all dazed and dopey.

Geez Louise--Get a Job Already Big Bubba!

OK, maybe I'm harsh.
No that's not it--I'm a push over.
J's fiance has been living with us--for awhile--what a sucker I am. He was working up until 3 weeks ago. Now he's just hanging out. I've yelled, scolded, hollered, rolled my eyes and now finally given up.
Since my shoulder has been out of commission I've been trying to take it easy. Over the weekend I managed some careful gardening. Monday was a short meeting and when I got home I had to do the dishes because mr. unemployed didn't do anything all day long. Neither did miss part time employment. What shall I do????
I cleaned the kitchen and did the dishes (some from Sunday when J made dinner).
What was my pain level today--back up to 5, damn the kids.
You may ask why I don't have a dishwasher--I do--3 in fact. 1 only works when yelled at. 1 works after much reminding. 1 prefers to be asked. Thank goodness the 4th one has her own house now.
This week I need to get over to KK's house to pick up my fair entries and $$$ :).

Sorry 'bout that

Okay, maybe I was a little harsh on Dianna, sorry. It's just that multitudes of people seem content in their beliefs, I'm not yet. But I'm willing to learn. I have asked many believers many questions. I do believe there is a creator of all and that being I hold in high regard. But there are many peoples of this world that feel their beliefs are correct and I am curious to learn about their beliefs too. Thank you for sharing your beliefs Dianna.
PT is going well--range of motion has returned to normal, strength is increasing, I've added some lower body work while I'm there to balance out the bod, and I think I'll keep going once a week (for $5) to go with the walking I do on my off PT days. Weight is hanging at 209 but that is probably because of the increasing muscle mass.
Today is 'estrogen day', I got the house to myself until 4 so it's movies, laundry, sewing, knitting and napping. I remember my mom napping during the summer, I know why now. Up at 6, to bed at 11, that's just a long day. I think the Mexicans always had a good idea with the afternoon siesta.

Shopping Trip and Football

The shopping trip went well, left at 7:15, back by 6 and spent a few bucks.
Acquisitions on this trip consisted of a Magical Herbs book, my own copy of the Koran and and sketch book for R's birthday next week. I didn't even buy me undies at Victoria's Secret--cuz they don't have the bra sales like on-line.
Two football games in two days. JV lost to Cheboygan last night. Varity smashed Forest Area, 49-0 tonight. Go Bulldogs!!
Now Dianna, my blog visitor--I understand where you're coming from regarding Jesus of Nazareth. I have read the holy scriptures, from beginning to end and was still left with many questions--one being--
Genesis 1:26 "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth."
According to christian teachings god is a man-- so WHO IS us and our and them.
Answer me that.

Religions and Day Trips

I began reading the Qu'ran today. I figured if I'm going to choose a religion I should study them all before I make my choice. I read the King James version of the bible years ago, the Qu'ran is the one I found on the library shelf this time. Soon it will be the Torah and the Kaballah--I think that's all the main ones.
If anyone of you, my vast readers, has a suggestion, I'll look into that too.
Tomorrow J and R and I are taking a shopping trip to TC. Two hour drive, shopping at the mall and sharing the driving. Should be fun, I hope.

Another Day

My day of worship began with a walk with Jane. I prefer to spend time in nature instead of forcing myself to sit on uncomfortable benches in uncomfortable clothes thinking about the walk I should be taking and all the things I should be doing at home.
Then I decided to see what stuff I could through together to enter at the fair. I knew I had at least 2 items. After some looking I ended up with 8, really.
1. Beaudaciously yellow lace pants;
2. Cute summer blue top;
3. R's Bride's maids gown from Con's wedding;
4. Machine knit socks;
5. Hand knit socks;
6. Baby onsie;
7. My pink sweater;
8. Mother-of-the-Bride ensemble I made for me.
Goal for this week--1st prize for the pants, I'm real sure that no one has made anything similar, really. Next week I hope to post pictures of the lovely entries and ribbons!
Now what shall the next projects be? Started another pair of socks with left over navy. Now I've got to get something going on one of the knitting machines and finish the aqua blazer that has been waiting for a button for 6 months.
The Great Mother doesn't want me to get any gardening done since it rains everyday. Maybe I'll big potatoes; or not.

And Here We Go . . .

I see that I haven't been here in a few days, ouch, sorry. OK, so this week I worked like usual, except Wednesday was longer than usual. The mailing program has changed at work and so it took me much longer to get the mailing list ready so I ended up working an hour more than usual.
Then a PT Thursday I was re-evaluated, range of motion improving in my arm, but the darned thumb is still partially numb.
Friday was the event of the week with a cardiolyte stress test, hooray. This aging thing is a bunch of crap! You get one bobble on your EKG and the docs go nuts about it. So I do this stress test and I was so anxious about it when I got home I cried and then slept for 3 hours. The stress was finding out that I'm up another 5 pounds. I keep telling myself it's because of PT, working out the upper body and gaining muscle and stopping that damned high blood pressure medicine. OK, so 5'6", 211 lbs and I'm bigger than I ever have been in my life! Next visit with the doc is October and I will be walking every day that I don't have PT.
I'm also preparing for two different weekends away from home, one with hubby, one without. The hubby weekend is: 1. Our 24th anniversary, and 2. Logging Congress in Escanaba. Now we seldom go away for our anniversary BUT, this year his boss said, "We're closing the shop for the weekend and we're all going to the Logging Congress." WOW! His boss wants him by his side for the huge event for the shop--what an honor. And he wants me to tag along too! Not to mention that we've considered going to the Logging Congress for 20 years, just never got around to it.
The weekend without hubby is the end of September and is my annual knitting seminar, now called the Great Lakes Knitter's Retreat 2005. New place, Prince Conference Center at Calvin College; new format, Thursday evening preview; and new demonstrators. I started attending this in 1999 then skipped a year or two, then went for the last 3 years. My first year I remember saying to myself in the back of my mind (that voice has led me to other endeavors I will rehash at a later date) that I would like to be a demonstrator at this seminar (now retreat) in 10 years--my how time flies!
Now, as you read through this entry you may be saying to yourself--Logging Congress, Knitters Retreat, 24th anniversary--what does this woman NOT do?--I don't paint very well and I've never tatted, other than that 'wowyoucandothat' really means "Wow, you can do that?"

Check out KnitNFit

Just posted this on KnitNFit

Thank you Cara, Lee Ann and FaeryCrafty--at PT this morning I felt the
'twing' in my neck. A good twing! That nasty nerve released from it's
pinched position!!!!!HOORAY!!! during traction. I was so excited! I
finished my work out (2 hours worth) and tentatively came home. I can
feel my thumb coming back to life slowly. But the workout they have me
doing for my shoulder tires me out because I'm not used to working the
upper body.
But I just wanted to tell everyone that I was feeling better! I have 3
more weeks of PT which i will continue and I will be adding my walk
back in tomorrow. Anyway, THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT.
Blessings to all, Denise

So today will be a tentative day. I will be cautious in all that I do. I really want to get into the garden and do some work, but I think that can wait. I will instead--
wash dishes with the left hand;
sweep floor with the left hand;
attempt machine knitting with the left hand;
and eat with the left hand.
Even though I'm a lefty, I have found that I do many things like a righty.
On with the lefty day, check E-bay and housework.

Numb Thumbs Are No Fun

I've been going to PT every other day and finally today I have improvement. All the muscle cramps seem to be gone, just the numb thumb and I can feel the impingement in my shoulder. So I's gonna be real careful.
During the past 2 weeks the kids have been housekeepers. Even though they are 19 and 15, they're not the best. I was down to my last acceptable work clothes yesterday, thank goodness today is a work at home day. The kitchen is a disaster, the fridge has dead food in it. The dust bunnies are now the size of Jane, a 65 lb chocolate lab. And J's fiance lost his job Wednesday. Can life get much worse?
Wednesday, R's boyfriend was over and she showed him what she was making on my new(old) knitting machine. He was geeked!! I showed him how to do some knitting on the brother bulky. He was even more geeked! Now he wants to start machine knitting! I love it when sharing a craft gets someone so excited!
Now it's time to wake up the monsters and get them cleaning around the house. I want to do some work but don't want a relapse of pain. I don't think the muscles in my arm, shoulder, neck and back could take another bout of spasming (nor I), or maybe I'm just getting old and weak?

?

This was my second day of physical therapy and from here on will be known as PT.
Got my evauation from the PTist and yes, my spine looks like the above shape--a question mark. No wonder I'm in pain. I thought I would be home by say, noon, but this guy is a talker. I didn't start the actual PT until after noon!
So I did all my exercises, this pulley thing, then the traction, then the hangy arm thing, torso twist and a series of exercises in the pool. My shoulder was so tired I was shaking when I was done. I hit the hot tub for 15 minutes, changed and came home.
At home I ate a late lunch at 2 p.m. then took a nap.
Recommendation from the PTist? Ready for this--find something else to do besides knit, crochet and sew for a hobby.
I DON'T SEE THAT HAPPENING-EVER. So I'll just have to find more activities to do that counteract the hobby.
So any of you knitters, sewers and office job type have an idea--I'll listen to most anything. I've even joined a yahoo group KNITnFIT.
As before, I shall survive and continue on, learn more about my posture and walk more. But as in the past, I know I can only add one thing at a time about once every 3 to 6 months. This may take awhile. But since I'm gonna live to be 103, I guess I have the time!

Nada done

Shoulder still hurts, got a pinched nerve said the doc. Can't knit (machine or hand), sew, garden--can hardly type. Muscles spasm whenever they feel like it. Physical therapy was good yesterday all except the incline plane leaning/hanging arms thing. If I rest and keep my shoulder back I'm good, I can at least think and muddle through a few things. Hanging laundry is out unless I have assistance. In fact I need help with everything! Even though I'm left handed and it's my right shoulder I'm still real limited on what I can do cuz I'm quite ambidextrious--I knit and cut right handed. And mouse right handed!
Found a new blog with some 'real unique' stuff!

What a Pain

Last weekend was a pain, literally, in the shoulder. I imagined all sorts of things that I could do to be in such pain but nothing compared to the actual stuff. On Sunday I finally drugged myself with benadryl just to get a bit a sleep. After suffering through the weekend and not doing anything fun I called the doc on Monday morning for an appointment.
I have a pinched nerve in my T3/T4 area and will start physical therapy Thursday. It's finally starting to feel better today, I even went to work.
Subsequently I got no knitting done over the weekend, did no laundry nor gardening and the house is still in shambles. But everyone else had a wonderful time traveling here and there.
It's hot again today and my best friends are Jane and ice. Maybe soon I will be able to sleep in a bed.

What Did I Do?

It's been a busy week. Work was busy. Bought a new knitting mag at the store, got another in the mail, went to the library and checked out a couple knitting books, but very little knitting going on.
I have decided if I can't see my stash then I forget what yarn I have and what I want to make with each, so it must be displayed--on my floor.
We've had some repreive from the heat, and some rain most nights.
Now if I could just figure out what I did to make my shoulder hurt. I don't remember doing anything in particular. But my right arm, shoulder, shoulder blade and neck have just been killing me! My hand goes numb, I have tingling down my arm, sometimes in the front, sometimes in the back and a heavy feeling in my shoulder.
I went to the chiropractor on Wednesday and it felt better for a bit but today was aweful. And when got home from work I just couldn't do anything. I tried to rest and relax, but to no avail. I'll be calling the chiro first thing tomorrow morning for a re-do.
The girls are each going through crises. C, newlywed, is newlywedding. J is blabbing and not helping me. R is trying to talk peeps into driving her around. R and I are planning a school shopping trip in August, she's the youngest and will be a junior.

Third Try's a Charm?

OK, this is the third time I've tried to post today. This is what I have.
1. Green beans are doing well this year.


2. Little grape tomatoes are the only 'maters in the garden as of July 23.3. Socks are coming along well. I've turned the heels and enjoy the little cable pattern.


4. Got a summer sweater done from an idea from some magazine pattern from a few years ago.














I was hoping it would fit me--but it fits my youngest daughter just great. I plan to enter it in the local fairs later this month.

Jane got a 2 mile walk plus swim this morning but no blueberries.

Now I'm wondering what to work on next. Any ideas??

depression rears it's ugly head

I thought I was doing good, exercizing, making lists and crossing things off, getting a little done here and there. Then 2 things happened yesterday which brought me down. 1) Jane got away from me at the lake and chased a momma and 3 baby ducks. 2) I was relating a story to the family about work and no one heard me.
The results from those two events were:
I was angry at the dog--I chased after her in rough water and it was very tiring.
I was angry because no one heard me. I think it would have been better if someone would have said, "Hey we're watching a movie, can ya tell us later?" But it was just the regular -no response- like I don't even exist. :p

So I quit talking to everyone and now everyone thinks I'm mad. Maybe I am. But there's no sense in talking if no one listens.

Tomorrow will be another day.

Still Looking for Motivation

Took Jane to the lake again yesterday, will this heat ever end? There were so many boats and people there yesterday, but it was Saturday. Most the peeps loved her, enjoyed watching her swim and drag me through the water. She's getting better behaved, but I still won't let her off the leash, and I keep the "Gentle Leader" on her until she starts swimming. We swam for about 30 minutes and I must say my shoulders, neck and arms have been getting a workout!

The aquariums have been quiet because of the heat. They'll get a good cleaning today. I took some pretties out of the 20 gallon Friday to let them sun dry and KILL the snail eggs. I know the bettas enjoy the escargot, but this is getting a little out of hand. Next approach will be acquiring some loaches for snail eradication.

Tony went to Rudyard yesterday for a tractor pull. His dad and uncle bummed along and his dad took his tractor too. A little old Ford. Tony placed first (as usual) in the 8500 lb class and 4th with his dad's tractor in a smaller class. I kind of missed seeing all our tractor pulling buddies, but enjoyed the day alone!

Mornings

Since I've taken back control of my life (which has annoyed some people in this house beyond belief!) this is what has occurred:
I wake up at 6 a.m.!
My butt is tight
I'm making lists AND getting things checked off them, again
I'm cleaning the house!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I balanced my checkbook
I'm eating more healthy
I look forward to getting up in the morning
I sleep better
I'm sure there's more that I'll think of later.

Here's a pic of the socks I've been working on, a two needle pattern done on 1 circular needle on navy wool blend given to me by a friend.

Just the ribbing, 2x2, got a ways to go yet.

Ok, so this morning I got up early enough to make coffee for my hubby and me, ate breakfast, watched the last 45 minutes of The Princess Bride, rototilled the garden, gathered up dirty clothes and sat down to blog--all before 8 a.m.! At this rate I make get some knitting done in the machine room before it gets to hot!
Norma had some pants peeing laughs on July 13 and 14. Be careful if you check it out, really!

I'm still checking out other knitters foreign links such as Uli's. It's amazing how you can figure out what is posted with a picture and some punctuation.

Progress

NONE--no progress whatsoever!!!!! I finally said, OK, just start something, anything, just get started on something. If it doesn't work out, make it again or make something else.
So, Saturday, I cast on the Brother 970, 114 stitches for a little summer sweater, off the shoulder, raglan, knit 2 rows and tried to work some lace. Not doing, no way, no how. I pulled that off the machine, tried again and skipped the lace, got to row 142 and realized I had decreased where I should have increased. GGGRRRRRRRRrrrr!
Sunday, again with the blue summer sweater, tried to combine the size of one pattern with the looks of another--no luck.
Monday morning, cast on again with the blue--good, looks nice, except







it was only 114 stitches and I needed 140 this time.

I think I'll decorate the room with pics of all the things I'd like to try. Knitting can wait; today.

Stashes

I was checking out another blog, Bron's Blog II, and realized my stash is similar to other stashes. Bron's is nice and neat, all in one place. Mine is in at least four different hiding spots, a shelf, a dresser drawer, Denise's Yarn Barn and on the floor in bags. Some day, when I'm avoiding a project, I should organize it. Should it be according to fiber content? Color? Amount? or size? These are difficult questions to answer.

Jane and I picked more blueberries yesterday, about 3 cups, but she doesn't contribute to the bucket, she just eats them! I honored my hubby by making blueberry muffins for breakfast today. YUM YUM!

Back to knitting--I ripped out the V-Shawl, too many mistakes and not enough yarn to do what I wanted. So it is balled up waiting for inspiration.
I keep going in the knitting room, looking for inspiration, but it just escapes me. I get inspired on my way to work, laying in bed, or whenever I CAN'T get to knitting. Evil, Evil inspiration. I think I will post all my ideas on the walls of my room--that way I can't avoid them!!!!

Berries!

Friday morning, usual program: get up, dressed in grubby clothes, walk the trail for at least a half hour. ***EXCEPT*** I found a few blueberries, more than last week. So I set a goal of filling the bottom of my bucket. I tried to stop, really, I tried. Thank goodness Jane picks her own berries.
This is what I came back with,

and this was breakfast,
and this is a dime!








I sent a few home to dad, who has started a blog too!
I finished up a scarf, skirt and camisole on the knitting machine, now to block them carefully (I'm not real good at that). And since today was my day off, I lounged and putzed.

Not Me, I Don't Have a Problem

You might have a problem:
. . . When you check out other bloggers links and click on their links and find 'such things' and oddly I was able to understand--even though I don't speak Deutch! I guess knitting and internet in German and America are universal! Also check out Uli's blog where I got the link.

Another day

Ok, so I got the pics loaded this time, these are the sisters.

I finally forced myself to get that nasty volunteer paperwork out of the way--and had to next day it to it's destination :( I could plan ahead a little better.

I haven't walked lately, but did knit last night and today. You other knitters and bloggers--How do you decide on a project? So much yarn, so many patterns, so many combinations, so many options--HOW DO YOU DECIDE???
So I've started with a silk/rayon blend in natural colors, acquired from a friend, making an easy camisole, little shaping, and quick! Got the front and back knit up on the standard machine in less than an hour. Now just to do the straps.

Different sisters

So I'm feeling neglectful of the other young princesses of mine. With the wedding over, I can now concentrate on the younger two below.

They are just a intelligent and beautiful in their own right. Just different.

Accomplishments

Got started on the paperwork, walked and picked a few blueberries which were yummy on cereal yesterday morning. Arranging more stuff in the knitting/sewing room.
Attended the great Hand Reunion held by my in-laws this year. My hubby served as auctioneer and I spent too much but got some goodies.
Hi to new blogging friend Mitchypoo.
Happy belated Canada Day to all the north friends. Happy Independence Day to Americans!

Motivation

How do you get motivated? How do you motivate yourself? Other than bribery, I'm not doing very well. I have this huge 'to do' list; things that NEED to be done, things I want to do, things I should do and things that I would do if I would just get one of the other things done. How to get moving I'm not sure. I NEED to get some paperwork done TODAY! I should do some laundry, clean the fridge, clean the garage, move sewing/knitting stuff to the spare room, freeze the extra carrots and work in the garden. I want to knit and sew.
So, I started this way today--went for a half hour walk with Jane and washed a load of towels. When I got back from the walk, I took a shower and washed the few dishes and made THE LIST and since I was so good about getting those things done I treated myself to a short blog entry:)
This being a big holiday weekend, I want to vacation a little too--AH, that's my motivation!!! That's it! Now I have to go so I can play--just as soon as my work is done!