tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-312179282024-03-08T11:24:22.662-05:00Purls of WisdomA stitch of this, a purl of that..and lots of tinks and frogs..Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-55231074326859065062010-06-07T11:38:00.003-05:002010-06-07T12:03:50.495-05:00Surprise<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/TA0kaD3GLHI/AAAAAAAAAzY/ATs-YwvsPVk/s1600/shawls+010.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480076351711358066" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/TA0kaD3GLHI/AAAAAAAAAzY/ATs-YwvsPVk/s200/shawls+010.JPG" /></a><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">To those that knew it was my Mom's 90th birthday celebration this weekend...you'd expect I would write all about that.. I will, just not today. </span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">It is a knitting blog..I keep telling myself this because I could easily turn it into a travel blog given the opportunity.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">BUT..BUT...since I rarely post stuff I knit..because it just never stays here long..I tend to wrap and send it away as soon as it's off the needles..hoping I may catch a glimpse of it later being worn and can snap a pix..</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">After seeing Elisabeth at NOSO in September sporting such a lovely wrap and finding that it was indeed of her own making..I got busy and tracked her down and ordered a few skeins of her prettier than pretty yarn...I'm impressed with cotton..it's just who I am..old hippies never die..they just get more weird or have more fun, whichever comes first...</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">I wanted to finish a shawl using her fiber before Sedalia..and I did..using a pattern that Ann McCauley shared with our Ravelry group...sad to say by the end of the day I was looking like Little Orphan Annie trying to keep my scarf on...because I was not about to tell anyone that I had lost my awesome shawl pin that Sonya had given me at Celtic..so I knotted up the scarf and it was about 50 ways from Sunday around my neck by the end of the day..however, it was still rich and beautiful due to it was made from Wolle's gorgeous cotton...This story has a great ending...when we(Marianne, Julie, Dana and I arrived back to our apartment), my shawl holder arrived back with us..Fortunately Marianne and Julie had rescued it from a bag that I had put it in for safe keeping during the hectic early morning putting the show together..</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">Part 2..I rarely order just 1 skein of anything..so when I ordered the skein for the shawl above, I also ordered a second...I decided after Sedalia and carefully checking Wolle's site to make a Saroyan using her yarn..I saw she had made one and it was lovely..so I began this adventure right after getting home and settling in...a slow knit..Several times I second guessed what I was doing and shouldn't I do it differently..but no..I did not...Do I regret it..No..there are folks with slender necks that don't like alot of drapey stuff flung all around them and this is going to a thin neck gal..so I think the size will work well.. I contemplated adding more leaves in the straight section..I was fine with the 6 on the increase and decrease but I sort of thought that it may need a bit more length..When I got to the 10 recommended leaves, my fingers said..enuff..</span></em></div><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">I'm showing this with The most gorgeous shawl pin that was gifted to me by the kind, generous and loving Margene...It's a bronze heart by the awesome Romi...For those of you that know and love Margene(like I do)...you will know the heart has a special significance ..I wear it with more love and gratitude than you can ever know..Thank you Margene for such a special gift and I promise I will 'always' know where this one is.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">I think it looks really pretty and it will make a perfect little scarf for those days when you just want a little 'pick up'...or perhaps 'get picked up'. I measured the yarn I have left and there is enough to make another...and the colors will be all different.</span></em></div><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">But for now, I'm focusing on a project of love..I'd love to get rid of some of the scraps and stash around here..so I've started knitting panels 6"x48" and I'm going to either crochet or sew them together for a 'love blankie' for my special friend and husband Mike. We both love having our little blankies for those cooler afternoons and nights to wrap around our legs when we're sitting around..Being the wild and crazy man that he is..yep, the guy that wears pinata colored Red Heart Acrylic socks..is going to love this blanket..even without trying, I think I can make the blend rather tacky, which will just please him beyond words.</span></em></div><br /><div><em><span style="color:#6600cc;">So..what's going on over on your street?</span></em></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-78294345952616684002010-05-26T07:12:00.002-05:002010-05-26T07:33:10.301-05:00Ying says Dust and Clean<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/S_0Qd-jVVpI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/1Gzw2kx7Jns/s1600/Sedalia+2010+019.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475550829145839250" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/S_0Qd-jVVpI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/1Gzw2kx7Jns/s200/Sedalia+2010+019.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Gosh, I do have some time now..inhale/exhale..but no promises I will return to blogland.</div><div>It was a busy last several months but well worth every moment of time spent, every ounce of energy used and every unslept night of 'did I remember this, Call Dana on that, Did Dana ask me this or did I dream it'...but that's history now and a very good chapter it was.</div><div> </div><div>Dana and I embarked on this life changing event 3 years ago as we decided with the help of friends we could save a local fiber festival that was going to be 'tossed to the dogs'..We rescued and were successful for 3 years, doubling the original vendor list as well as attendance. This year was exceptional in that we branched out a bit and had 2 well known authors/designers/knitters to join us and teach classes/sign books. We had Ann McCauley from Boulder, Co. to join us with her 2 books, trunk show and also she taught 3 different classes...as well, we had Barbara Hurd to join us from Charlottesville for a book signing..</div><div>Also on the slate we had a fantastic raffle that we offered a Drum Carder, Weaving Loom and a Spinning Wheel..3 folks left there very happy with those large items..Then we had our regular super duper raffle that grew by leaps and bounds this year..giving away lovely bags, yarn, books, pottery, etc...There was something for everyone..even me..well..actually Mike came early and bought raffle tickets and won a lovely skein of Rock Creek..which has found it's way to my stash bin.</div><div>If this doesn't capture your interest and you don't think Dana and I were excited yet..the best to come:...Marianne from Ok. and Julie from Maine joined us for this fun day. Many months ago we started talking about them coming and of course everything hinges on another..family, travel, economy etc..but putting all that aside..these 2 glorious ladies arrived on Thurs. for Marianne and very late Fri. morn for Julie(and that's another story)..I speak for myself only when I say I can't recall when I've ever had such fun..they were just as I had pictured they would be from the years of Rav. contact and email exchanges..if we had not been so tired, I am sure we would have closed all the bars in town down..(oh wait..we did on Sat.) The time went by much too quickly in that they traveled so far and we had so little time to actually visit..but to quote a famous lady..</div><div>'We made good time'..we laughed, we laughed some more..I giggled and snorted..and during most of this my camera was tucked away in my purse..but the memories are all tucked in my heart.</div><div>Thanks for making a most memorable weekend Marianne and Julie..Let's do it again!!!!</div><div> </div><div>After all of this planning and exhausting action..Dana and I woke on Sunday morning and unanimously decided we were no longer going to organize this festival..it's been draining and we both have outside lives which are mostly consumed the entire 12 months for planning.</div><div>We feel we go out in style as we have been successful and left all our vendors on a pleasing note..</div><div>We have had the opportunity to work with the best vendors in this field..they're the most supportive and generous folks I've ever met..We will miss you greatly but it will be so nice to see you from the other side of the table in the upcoming festivals.</div><div> </div><div>Dana and I are turning over all of the 'road maps' to another individual at this time and we know she will keep this festival alive, add new energy and everyone will continue to enjoy being a part of.</div><div>So..how's things in your neck of the woods..Mine just got much less busy!!</div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-62251379239193703792009-12-31T22:26:00.003-05:002009-12-31T22:30:56.152-05:00Happy New Year<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sz1sFgluD5I/AAAAAAAAAzI/hvfcqovamoM/s1600-h/357.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421608368327233426" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sz1sFgluD5I/AAAAAAAAAzI/hvfcqovamoM/s200/357.JPG" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#993399;">Happy New Year..Yall!</span></div><div><span style="color:#993399;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#993399;">From a favorite view of mine..to You!</span></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-9861302621990029512009-12-28T12:27:00.002-05:002009-12-28T12:30:19.857-05:00Condolences<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Szjq5fS8RAI/AAAAAAAAAzA/fPG0iMQwbxc/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+017.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420340424914781186" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Szjq5fS8RAI/AAAAAAAAAzA/fPG0iMQwbxc/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+017.JPG" /></a><br /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Sending warm hugs and love to Judy in the loss of her Father.</div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-84091068064761195602009-12-27T20:15:00.002-05:002009-12-27T20:48:18.155-05:00Silent Night...Holy NightIt's been one most terrific holiday but I'm ready for a 'quiet' night at home..<br />Hubby is making his own creation of Seafood Chowder..he concocts the tastiest stew that compares to any I've ever had in a reputable restaurant. He uses lots of fresh Va. Oysters, clams, crab and many times shrimp but tonight because of so many oysters he's omitting the shrimp...lots of good fresh herbs, celery, onions etc..can't share more or I'll have to shoot you.<br />I've had some time to reflect on the past year the last days and I think to summarize it the best..I'd say, it's been 'one of the best'...I've had a better than average healthy year..I'm so happy to finally have a grasp on the allergies and asthma..can't stop the aging process, so you just make the best of it and move along.<br />We had a most successful festival..The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sedalia</span> Fiber Festival that brought many enthusiast together for a day of 'sticks and yarn'...and the pleasure of working with good friends to make this happen..as well as making so many new contacts that I look forward to seeing again this year.<br />I had the opportunity to travel to Portland for The Sock Summit and be among the 'high rollers' of sock knitting..rub elbows with those 'in the know' and participate in some super fun events and meet some special people that remain close to me.<br />I feel I made a bit of progress in my knitting skills..but boy, I've got leaps and bounds to go but look forward to meeting more goals as time goes on.<br />I had the chance to meet Jo Watson at SS, she is the coordinator for The UK Knit Camp..I've toyed with the idea of attending this in 2010..but I can't quite make the needed commitment for that early enough to be accepted and get into classes..so I suppose I am saying I won't be going for sure...and after new security standards that will be going into place..that could be a good thing..<br />There is another knitting event that I hope to be able to participate in..and hubby would also go with me..I really hope this works out but it won't be until Sept. 2010..It's a 6 day cruise with the last port being a visit to Lucy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Neatby's</span> Studio.<br />Tomorrow..I hope to begin a normal day and restart some knitting..I have not had needles in my hands for 2 days..time is '<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">a'wasting</span>'~<br />Be well and safe..Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-29951486735293101162009-12-25T17:50:00.010-05:002009-12-25T18:05:36.752-05:00Falalalalalalalalala<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVEyJQ7ZFI/AAAAAAAAAyw/gQYutTU-D_g/s1600-h/Mom%27s+2009+010.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419313354881328210" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVEyJQ7ZFI/AAAAAAAAAyw/gQYutTU-D_g/s200/Mom%27s+2009+010.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVCOa7XzzI/AAAAAAAAAyo/W2CEwkMHSqE/s1600-h/Mom%27s+2009+011.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419310542124207922" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVCOa7XzzI/AAAAAAAAAyo/W2CEwkMHSqE/s200/Mom%27s+2009+011.JPG" /></a> This is the Shalom Cardigan that I made my Sister for Christmas..it really looks very pretty on her..but look at this pretty button..it's a <a href="mailto:Sonya@Studio">Sonya@Studio</a> 43 Original..<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVCIxCxEuI/AAAAAAAAAyg/tcc9ZFbPPbg/s1600-h/Mom%27s+2009+009.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419310444981588706" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVCIxCxEuI/AAAAAAAAAyg/tcc9ZFbPPbg/s200/Mom%27s+2009+009.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><p>The reason for the neck shot of me...this is the lovely Baktus that Marianne made for me some months ago..although this isn't the first time I've worn..it was the first time the camera was handy..and the shawl pin..Mike made for me for Christmas..it's really very intricate if up closely but you'll just have to take my word for this, huh. I love this scarf..the colors, her handspun, her handknit..it's all so beautiful! I love it and Thank you Marianne.</p><br /><br /><br /><p>For the lovely scarf I was wearing yesterday..I failed to give the credit to the wonderful knitter..this came to me from my friend Judy in Portland that I met during Sock Summit I feel so lucky to have so many talented friends..Judy has probably humiliated me into cables..because I wore this yesterday and had lots of compliments and..could you make me one?...It is so elegant and I love it..Thank you Judy!</p><br /><br /><br /><p>Let it be said..I do love scarves and I love wearing them..So when Marianne gives me the heads up on a new pattern..I'm quick to check it out..</p><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVE62XVMxI/AAAAAAAAAy4/28ot-Eiu9Ws/s1600-h/Mom%27s+2009+001.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419313504426734354" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzVE62XVMxI/AAAAAAAAAy4/28ot-Eiu9Ws/s200/Mom%27s+2009+001.JPG" /></a><br /><p>I did trek out today in the pouring rain to have lunch with Mom, Sister, John and Mike..We had such a good visit and a great meal...but it was nice to get home and sit and relax a bit..Tonight I'm going to enjoy the 'lights'..</p><br /><br /><br /><p>What are you doing?</p></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-31288117813880456422009-12-24T13:29:00.005-05:002009-12-24T13:49:17.512-05:00On This Eve..Christmas Blessings to You All~<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO3QB4XpGI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/2gocPIqmr-A/s1600-h/Christmas+2009+008.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418876262667494498" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO3QB4XpGI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/2gocPIqmr-A/s200/Christmas+2009+008.JPG" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO28M8Y3HI/AAAAAAAAAyA/4Epzz3dQh0s/s1600-h/Christmas+2009+011.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418875922039757938" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO28M8Y3HI/AAAAAAAAAyA/4Epzz3dQh0s/s200/Christmas+2009+011.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>I feel so blessed at this moment and just had to share a few photos..We went to MIL's..for a midday family gathering so that we could gift exchange with Candice and Family..We have a most difficult time <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO3GaQgqDI/AAAAAAAAAyI/vex1DIG5-HI/s1600-h/Christmas+2009+012.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418876097412507698" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SzO3GaQgqDI/AAAAAAAAAyI/vex1DIG5-HI/s200/Christmas+2009+012.JPG" /></a>it seems getting together for just ordinary visits but it really warms my heart when we are actually able to pull it off and get all in one place.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>The perfect plan was going to happen at our house today for lunch..I was going to cook the mega meal for everyone and we'd do our visit and exchange here...but after we were covered with over a foot of snow at the end of last week..and we live off the main road..our driveway is still quite tricky even for the surefooted..and surely not for MIL who is still tiptoeing from her fall and break in Sept..so..plan B was put into action.. They would come to Grannys(MIL's) and we'd meet, visit..and then they were taking Granny out for lunch..of course we were invited also but we aren't in to eating an early lunch..so we picked up Chinese carryout and moved along.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I can hardly believe how much Cameron the Grandson has grown in the last months..he's 15 and is just so dashingly handsome...not too mention he's 6'2" and has the most gorgeous reddish brown reallllllllllly curly hair..he has the most awesome curls..He had curly hair as a toddler and my all time favorite photo of him was when he was about 2 and his head was a 'mop' of loose curls...he went through years of buzz cuts and all those other cool spikey gelled up styles but he's now wearing it au natural..and it is just too darn handsome! Ashley is just as cute as a button..all petite and blond...and so into still believing in Santa..so she was really on her best behavior today..but I think that's fairly normal for her...they really are 2 wonderful children..and I'm so proud to be called their Mamaw. It's not always smooth going..being a step..is not an easy feat..especially when there's still a bitter ex in the pix..you'd think after 30+ years...she'd just get over it..but instead, she chooses to try to keep discontentment and does a really great job of it.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I'm now home with a turkey breast in the oven and as soon as it beeps that it's done..I'm going to make a chocolate truffle pie...We're supposed to go to my Moms tomorrow but..seems the weather guy may have other plans...there's an icy wintry mix in the forecast that could prohibit travel tomorrow..</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Thanks to all of you wonderful people here on Ravelry that make coming to this site worthwhile and to those of you that I've met personally and virtually..I love you and wish for you a most blessed Christmas and happy healthy 2010..</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Be safe and stay well~</div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-39037218066611134052009-12-19T10:29:00.005-05:002009-12-19T10:48:36.706-05:00AND it DID<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz1TrfggnI/AAAAAAAAAx4/nbS7976jksE/s1600-h/2097.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416974170261062258" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz1TrfggnI/AAAAAAAAAx4/nbS7976jksE/s200/2097.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz1KKz--2I/AAAAAAAAAxw/KxXrZHCX50w/s1600-h/2095.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416974006869752674" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz1KKz--2I/AAAAAAAAAxw/KxXrZHCX50w/s200/2095.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz0-Vd9nnI/AAAAAAAAAxo/Ko7GfERbGgo/s1600-h/2094.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416973803571748466" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Syz0-Vd9nnI/AAAAAAAAAxo/Ko7GfERbGgo/s200/2094.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Yesterday about mid afternoon Mike said to me...'be careful of what you wish for'..I always wish for at least a foot of snow..This time I got my wish! Actually, I think we have more than a foot but so that it's not totally fabricated..I'll stick with 12"..</div><br /><br /><br /><div>It was a bit tricky this morning at 6:30 when walking the pup..seems he just could not find 'his place'..I even cleaned a spot down to the grass and invited him over, but it just didn't smell right.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Walking was very difficult..to say the least. We live a half mile off the main highway and our street is not state maintained..soooo Nik and I made the first tracks..it was absolutely breath taking to walk in the virgin snow..and be snowed on while walking. I did not take the camera because I was afraid if I fell..I'd break the camera..leg,hip or arm..yes..camera-no..It was so deep it was even rough on Nik to make a track..his belly was dragging..and he's a rather large guy..he now weighs 92 lbs..after losing 8 since his last vet visit and reprimand for being a bit..over..</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I had to choose each step carefully..and believe me when I say I've never had this good of a quad workout from the gym...I was dressed in ample clothing to stay warm in a blizzard but unfortunately my boots were not quite tall enough....after trying to figure out how I was going to make this trek...I remembered Mike had this awesome pair of insulated/waterproof and tall hunting boots from when he used to bird hunt...so I put on thick socks and these boots which are about 12" tall not counting all the heel etc..and they must weigh at least 5 lbs each....they were sufficient most of the way ..until we were almost back within sight of the house..and Nik decided to go into a field..as I trudged for him..it went at least 3" over the tops of the boots..so I'm saying..yep..we must have about 15" here. Our back door is drifted up from where the wind blew earlier last night and we can' t get out the kitchen door..but there are other exits that are fine..and the snow continues..actually heavier now than earlier. I'm a happy girl..</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I came back from walking a bit damp and changed into some warm clean clothes and proceeded to make some dark choco. fudge..and I just finished some sausage balls. I finished my applesauce cakes a few days ago and fortunately delivered all of them to friends and neighbors on Thurs. and Fri..They must have been fairly good this year..one request for the recipe and one early call from a friend this morning that had some for breakfast..The rest of the day..I'm going to knit, sip tea and relax...and once the snow stops..I may clean my car off but I have NO plans to go any place for a day or so..this is my kind of weather..a special Christmas gift!</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy New Year~</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-46241606867965426542009-12-17T19:20:00.003-05:002009-12-17T19:22:05.348-05:00LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOWYep..<br />That's the forecast..snow and lots of it..we're in the 8+" area..<br />Stay safe and warm..it's going to be a great time to bake, wrap and get the last minute holiday ends 'tied' up.<br />Merry Christmas to All~Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-11956107387203407832009-11-25T20:55:00.002-05:002009-11-25T21:03:40.447-05:00Happy ThanksgivingWishing everyone a super great Thanksgiving!<br />I don't do specific grateful lists because I am extremely grateful for everything and everyone in my life.<br />I look forward to spending tomorrow with family at my home..yep, they will endure my cooking one more time. I guess it's easier to eat my less perfect meal and not complain than it is to have to do it yourself..<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">ha ha</span> Actually, I don't do too bad in the kitchen..and I don't anticipate any complaints.<br />I did bake 5 cakes over the weekend as part of my annual cake gifting and have delivered those to some of my neighbors and older friends..and today I made a pumpkin cheesecake for home as well as an applesauce cake..tomorrow we will work on 'Mr. Bird'<br />Have a relaxed and safe day!!<br />Count your blessing..I know you must have many!Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-60116710615488515552009-11-14T17:29:00.002-05:002009-11-14T17:40:17.962-05:00A Simply Abundant DayI got this wonderful invitation from my friend Claudette to come to her house today to visit, knit and have lunch. Of course, just the invitation to her home was enough..so I offered to buy her lunch but she said..no, we'd go to this little 'bistro' in town..Claudette isn't known to tell a fib so of course I knew we were going to do just that..however the bistro was in her very own dining room and I can't imagine there's one in her town that could serve up the delicious Caesar Salad she whipped up..it was the yummiest I've ever eaten..<br />Then she took me on a little side trip to The Glen Maury Park to show me the actual 'Buena Vista'(Good View)...then we took a most stimulating walk down the flood walk...so that we could go home and enjoy her awesome blueberry dessert served with ice cream..yep..I'm Abundantly full and happy..nothing simple about those pleasures.<br /><br />It was a delightful visit but the time just flew by and it was time for me to head back over the mountain home before dark..which happens promptly about 5 p.m.<br /><br />Thanks Claudette for a taste of Simple Abundance...I listened to the CD all the way back across the 'big hill'..very soothing for the soul..<br />And in case I didn't tell you how much I appreciate your friendship and love you..I do VERY MUCH!!Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-82183265295890402632009-11-08T19:24:00.005-05:002009-11-08T19:35:03.488-05:00Almost done..except a bath and a button.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SvdiBbvn27I/AAAAAAAAAxg/2uzLPOtNkXY/s1600-h/Pigeonroof+Studios+348.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401894054821092274" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SvdiBbvn27I/AAAAAAAAAxg/2uzLPOtNkXY/s200/Pigeonroof+Studios+348.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Svdh4heMUfI/AAAAAAAAAxY/ir8X1oCPy14/s1600-h/Pigeonroof+Studios+341.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401893901739774450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Svdh4heMUfI/AAAAAAAAAxY/ir8X1oCPy14/s200/Pigeonroof+Studios+341.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SvdhnXhvS_I/AAAAAAAAAxQ/lIdg57UgTu4/s1600-h/Pigeonroof+Studios+339.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401893607012518898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SvdhnXhvS_I/AAAAAAAAAxQ/lIdg57UgTu4/s200/Pigeonroof+Studios+339.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Sorry this photo isn't turned properly but it just wasn't and I didn't take the time to do it after the upload..but you 'get the picture..huh'..The pattern is The Baktus, using 2 skeins of Filatura DiCrosa, Maxine Print..The middle is The Harlot Scarf Pattern, using Noro Kochoran and the Sweater is using The Shalom Cardigan Pattern and I used Cascade Eco Wool..it took much less than a skein to make this..to fit a 34ish bust...that's all folks..although there are several more scarves in the making and many ideas in the mind.</div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-15542449173798596372009-11-06T21:04:00.003-05:002009-11-06T22:07:51.624-05:00Sit TightI promise a full report soon...I know I've been quiet..I've been busy and away..but I've also accomplished a bit of knitting..<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The day after Labor Day..I got serious on my decision to curb my eating aka lose some poundage..because I had the big 40 High School Class Reunion coming up in Oct...so I figured I could squeeze off a few inches and be happier with how I look...I gave up my beloved beer, chocolate and soft drinks...I started drinking only hot tea and water and eating more sensibly...<br /><br /><br />I'm so pleased to say this was easy...until the week before my reunion and I went to Moms..and there were those ...Little Debbies...I did resist until after the reunion and then I was more conscious as I 'wolfed' them down. I was successful in dropping a few inches and pounds.. and had a great time at my reunion. It was the first time I had gone without Mike but because of being across town and trying to coordinate having 2 cars, etc..he was most happy to not be pressured into going..and I had a more relaxed time not worrying that he was bored..so a win-win!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401187736153197330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SvTfoRqbixI/AAAAAAAAAxI/uhovglBJ8I0/s200/Class+Reunions+of+1969+and+1970+075.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>Plus it was nice to get some hugs from some folks I'd not seen in a few years.</p><p>Mom and I had a great 2 week visit..we did some little something most days..even if it was as simple as coming to my house to visit..but we also did some 'firsts'...We had a court appearance to make over a land dispute that's been going on MUCH too long..and we went for manicures..Mom said she had never been to court(which is a good thing, I guess)..and she had never had a manicure...I think she enjoyed the simple pleasure of the manicure and may become a regular..that may be a little treat she and I share often.</p><p>I did accomplish 'some' knitting while there..but I wasn't able to keep up with the Sock Kal..I got swamped and didn't get past the heel..but that's ok..because they're both ready to do the foot..and that's clear sailing. I worked on a scarf I had on the needles for a while..it's still on the needles..it's dark yarn and with my aging eyes..dark isn't always easy to see..but I did finish a lovely Baktus..being the 3rd one..and I will post a photo later..I also finished a Harlot scarf, using Noro Kochoran..and she's quite lovely...AND..then...on Tues. night as I was reading my favorite blogs..I dropped by Susan's blog and saw her 14th sweater for 2009..it was a cute little Cardi..called Shalom Cardigan....say no more, I had the yarn in my stash(Eco Wool)..and all I needed to do was wind it..without much ado on Wed...I did this and cast on for this lovely little piece..She's coming along beautifully..actually if all goes well, she will be ready to come off the needles within a day or so....I've been obsessively knitting on this and am on row 70..and loving how cute it knits up...now you're thinking..I keep saying 'little' ..how can this be for me..well, it's not...I decided after first glance it would be such a cute Christmas gift for my Sister..she's much less chesty than I am..and can get by wearing those type things..but if this goes well..I intend to focus on another for me in the near future..the yarn has been stashed for some time..as well as the simple pattern..it's all about working up the courage to tackle it again...Linda and I are planning to do a 'little' Sweater Kal so that we can cheer each other on.</p><p>MIL is home..the Rehab is a much happier place..as are all the nurses and physical therapist..I do know they all were granted a special permit to their own space in heaven after this ordeal.</p><p>I hear a UFO calling my name..and if they're going to be under Christmas trees for this year..I better get busy.</p><p>Be well, be safe and Happy Knitting!!<br /></p>.Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-61389564685533364292009-10-02T11:14:00.003-05:002009-10-02T11:47:50.394-05:00Socktober<div>After careful consideration, I decided that having approximately 15 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">UFO's</span>..that it would be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ok</span>..to add another, therefore..I joined Through The Loops <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Kal</span>..The first clue went out yesterday which was the cuff..it was fun and not so challenging and I'm sure Kirsten will save the best for last.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388044493228520242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SsYt62TiszI/AAAAAAAAAxA/ZSFTH0uFxSg/s200/NOSO+011.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>The yarn is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Schaffer</span> Heather which was gifted me for my birthday from my Sister of The Heart, Marianne..doesn't she have fantastic taste?..It was a hard decision to make on which yarn, but after seeing she was using <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Schaffer</span>..I decided to walk the line. I think I will go ahead prior to next Thurs. when she releases clue 2 and cast on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">el</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">otro</span> sock so that I will be ahead of the game.</div><br /><div>Lots of knitting, lots of unattended knitting..I go to bed at night thinking there will be a knitting fairy that will come and finish my many unfinished items..they will get their day..I'm just being very <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">wishy</span> washy right now and doing something that pleases me..</div><br /><div>I don't blog often but my previous blog alluded to problems on the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">home front</span>..The Thurs. before Labor Day..ugly late at night, the phone rang and it was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">MIL's</span> neighbor..of course that alerted me there was a problem..seems Mil was watching the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Steelers</span> play football(she's quite a sports fan)..and she got up and her foot was asleep..she fell forward on her face/belly..breaking her right ankle and banging up her left one badly..it was an action packed night..arriving at our local ER at 11:30 p.m. and the walls were lined with folks waiting for attention..it was several hours before she had more than x-rays done..then after those x-rays were read by someone with skill enough to validate it was broken..they realized that it was so badly that if they transported her at this time to the nearby Orthopaedic hospital they were going to have to stabilize her ankle/leg because of how the break was..it was lying over a blood vessel and the fear being if the transport vehicle should hit a bump in the road..it could cause serious problems..so after finally arriving at this...they determined they would have to reposition her leg/ankle first..it's 4 a.m. now..and suddenly we're seeing an emergency status..prior too..it was very ho hum...we'll get there..we have other patients..we have 'EMERGENCIES'..yep, that's what they said..they had emergencies..and I'm like no##$#%...this is ER..shouldn't there be a few to make this place legal? So..this procedure was done after they were able to get an Anesthesiologist to get out of bed to come in and make her sleepy..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">soooo</span> she was finally transported to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Lynchburg</span> Hospital at 6 a.m..knowing surgery would be forthcoming but not sure when..I was in no condition to drive the half hour to the hospital after being up all night..so we came home and took half hour naps and showers and then I headed over..to find that the surgery would be at 5-6 pm..I slept a while in her room..which was most <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">luxurious</span>..and she assured me it was a non emergency surgery and to come home and rest..so after I gained my senses..I left her there...She was there from Fri. morning until Tues..and then she was transported to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Oakwood</span> Hell..better known as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Oakwood</span> Manor..it's a nursing home that also offers rehab..the rehab/physical therapists are wonderful..that's all I'll say!! She is still there and is due to go back to see the Dr. on Oct. 13 and maybe at that time she will be able to put weight on the foot..until, she refuses to do much Pt..she's convinced it's not in her best interest...but I will give her credit..she is giving the staff a daily dose of hell!!..She is one feisty lady!!</div><br /><div>On Saturday we had a most awesome time at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">NOSO</span>..Dana has already written and photographed so I won't go there..but it was great!..I love seeing that many knitters in one room..and most of them are SO friendly! We did a bit of politicking for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Sedalia</span> and picked up at least 1 new vendor..and we have an author on the burner..so..it's shaping up already..For those that think we wake up on the day of and it's magically all done...Dana and her staff work and confer year round.</div><br /><div>A few other less pleasant things..I've had eye issues for many years..and I see the Glaucoma Specialist every 6 months and endure that horrible visual field test..seems my pressures are too low in my left eye and there may have to be some future surgery. I've had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">trabeculectomies</span> on both and the right eye continues to respond well to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">bleb</span>..the left has been a bit wonky..but bottom line, my vision was getting worse..I was finding I had to wear my 'cheaters' all of the time..which was leaving my eyes very tired, headaches etc..so I made an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">appt</span>. with my local Optometrist a few weeks ago..and after an excellent exam..he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">calmly </span> told me..that it would have to be bifocals..not transitions..bifocals..I wanted to cry..but I really wanted to see too..so I opted to pull up my big girl panties and get those 'guys'..I'm still adjusting and it's been a week but it's amazing at how well I can see..seems the specialist doesn't spend much time on the actual examination and I probably should have had these a few years ago..but..I have them now..</div><br /><div>Also..another first..hangs head in shame...I was skipping church a few weeks ago..and in lieu of was going to go visit some shut in friends/relatives etc..I was cruising out to Mom's first and I will not deny..I was speeding but I truly do not think I was SPEEDING..I saw him as I began down the hill and let off the gas and immediately pulled over...He was most kind but he did write me up..He said he clocked me doing 68 in a 45....I don't really think I was going that fast..I'd admit to maybe 60..yes bad enough but 68..I've gone back and tried to do 68 there and it's a tough spot to make that curve at 68....oh well..I'm now $176 less yarn money..and The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Bedford</span> County <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Sheriffis</span> office is a bit richer to flaunt their new equipment etc.</div><div>Off to do some relaxation and knitting..</div><div>Remember to continue sending <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Margene</span> your warm thoughts..she is such an amazing Spirit!</div><br /><div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-15985402084848905142009-09-29T18:04:00.002-05:002009-09-29T18:12:37.241-05:00In MemoryToday marks one year since the death of my Brother..<br />We say our final good-byes and go on with life..with the hole it leaves in your heart.<br />The hole gets smaller as the days go by because of the memories we've stored in the previous years. Not too say that as you go about your daily errands etc..you don't have flashbacks..<br />I often drive by a little favorite spot of his and look over to the deck..and at times I toot my horn, because he was almost always sitting there at certain times of the day enjoying a cup of coffee and a cigarette...sometimes I catch a glimpse of him 'still' there..memories...<br />Don't be sad for me today..hug your loved ones and let them know you care!Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-41903973166728680832009-09-04T19:57:00.003-05:002009-09-04T20:02:22.780-05:00Tending to Family issues~<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SqG4F7N_6iI/AAAAAAAAAw0/KjFs7m4GywM/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+125.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377781841992346146" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SqG4F7N_6iI/AAAAAAAAAw0/KjFs7m4GywM/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+125.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>While I'm TCB..I'll leave you with a pix of this awesome lady!</div><div>This is Angela Davis, She was the teacher of Socks on Circs at Sock Summit..It was instant LIKE!</div><div>So while I'm doing what I need to do..I'll have these terrific memories of a wonderful trip and such special friends!</div><div>Knit ON~</div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-38039831199141511262009-09-02T07:35:00.007-05:002009-09-02T08:18:16.313-05:0058 Years Ago..WHEW<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sb8pgTLI/AAAAAAAAAws/t469F1f_Vlc/s1600-h/Birthday+from+Dana+006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376854232519429298" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sb8pgTLI/AAAAAAAAAws/t469F1f_Vlc/s200/Birthday+from+Dana+006.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sSpZBHFI/AAAAAAAAAwk/gVdbGktVU-Y/s1600-h/Birthday+from+Dana+002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376854072731180114" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sSpZBHFI/AAAAAAAAAwk/gVdbGktVU-Y/s200/Birthday+from+Dana+002.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sKGma5cI/AAAAAAAAAwc/xO6OS55IJ0c/s1600-h/Birthday+from+Dana+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376853925953201602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5sKGma5cI/AAAAAAAAAwc/xO6OS55IJ0c/s200/Birthday+from+Dana+001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376853229088867842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sp5rhilBBgI/AAAAAAAAAwU/iDMTb23Ejbo/s200/Birthday+from+Dana+005.JPG" border="0" /><strong><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#6666cc;"></span></strong><br />There's no guessing who came to visit..right?</div><div>Dana came by on Thurs. before my birthday bearing these awesome gifts..She had been teasing me for a few weeks how she could not wait for my birthday and each time..it got more intense..and knowing Dana's talents, I knew she was up to something...but look at this..can you believe how generous and good this woman is? Plus..several months ago..she gave me the greatest sock book..Socks A La <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Carte</span>..and said..this is your birthday present..I was ecstatic..then she comes at my birthday with a whole other BOX FULL!</div><div>There's Socks That Rock :Fire On The Mountain(Can we sing a few verses Jerry?)</div><div>There's The Great <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Adirondack</span> Yarn Co: Silky Sock <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mardi</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Gras</span></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ok</span>..blog was being a little contrary and just published..so let's see if this edit works..argh..I really need computer skills!</div><div>To wind this gorgeous yarn...there's a Mahogany <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Nostepinne</span>(I'm working on learning this)..it's such a lovely piece of work!</div><div>The Chocolate on The Brain..Notecards..with recipes on the back..how clever is this..unless of course, there were taste strips of each dessert?..OH, there is no pix..but rest assured it was in the box..but it melted in my mouth..a wonderful Godiva Dark Chocolate Bar..Dana loves to help me with my diet..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">hehe</span>!!</div><div>And <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Tah</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Dah</span>..Meet Henrietta! Is she not the most Gorgeous Chick you've ever seen?..Look at that gal!..Dana did this all by her lonesome..Henrietta now resides by my mantle..and seems to be quite happy..and Mike who loves chickens is in love with her..he has to show her off immediately when guests come in.</div><div>Plus to keep my noggin warm this winter..one of Dana's lovely hand knit Berets..I've admired the many she has made for her relatives..all the ones she made for the Afghan project that I took to Sock Summit..and NOW..I have my very own..I will be styling this winter.</div><div>Dana..in case I ever fail to tell you..I love you dearly..you're a great friend and you spoil me way too much..but I love it!</div><div>Thank you for your special gifts for my special day.</div><div>Stay tuned..more to come..that I have to photograph from another special lady!</div><div><br /> </div><div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#6633ff;"></span></div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-51645159935532674712009-08-25T14:14:00.003-05:002009-08-25T14:24:53.655-05:00A little slow<div>It's been a bit slow around here..I realize I still owe you 1 more day of Sock Summit and I will bore you with that another day.</div><br /><div>I've had a really tough time regaining my knitting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">mojo</span> since the return, seems the entire <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mojo</span> hopped the plane in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">SLC</span>..not just the little Sock Guy that I was dropping off to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Margene</span>..so if you see him/her/IT..send it my way..I have lots of 'started' items..and have just totally walked away from them to do this...This is the first of a pair, I hope..using the yarn I purchased from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Pigeonroof</span> Studios..I tried really hard to knit with some acrylic..because I have too..for this charity project, but I made a new knit rule..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">NNAOS</span>(no knitting acrylic on Sunday) therefore I have 2 projects barely started and sitting on the sidelines patiently waiting their turn..</div><div>This is just a plain vanilla..easy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">peasy</span> pattern..but the yarn is pretty fantastic to knit with. I think that 10% Cashmere makes it 'sweet' on the hands.</div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Ok</span>..back to your regular scheduled programs..this paid for commercial was brought to you by Dyna~</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373982858985412578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SpQ48ArdF-I/AAAAAAAAAwM/Yw0eJVvV8Lc/s200/Pigeonroof+Studios+009.JPG" border="0" /></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-36086116274795690582009-08-17T11:35:00.005-05:002009-08-17T12:00:28.299-05:00It'z all about the bags, my friend!!<div>Sooo, you want to know what's in the bag?..I actually was going to show you this yesterday but blogger was a booger..and we could not come to terms, therefore I aborted the post.<br /><div><div> </div><div>I purchased the little Sushi Wrister from Wendy Sloneker you can find Wendy here:</div><br /><div><a href="mailto:friendywendy@yahoo.com">friendywendy@yahoo.com</a>, not only does she have awesome bags, she had pretty buttons and other little sweet things that we knitters like..but you know what she had that really impressed me...she had the most incredible personality..she lit the room and she was SOOO very gracious that I'd stopped by and purchased from her. This is what Sushi is carrying at the <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SomIccjIxVI/AAAAAAAAAv0/kOmabzs8LYI/s1600-h/Pigeonroof+Studios+008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370974052897310034" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SomIccjIxVI/AAAAAAAAAv0/kOmabzs8LYI/s200/Pigeonroof+Studios+008.JPG" border="0" /></a>moment:</div><br /><div>In case you can't see this yarn well, I will post a pix of the skein before winding..but this hails from Pigeonroof Studios and it's 80/10/10 superwash Merino, Cashmere and Nylon..it's very kind to the hands while knitting and I've made awesome progress since the first pix..I'm on the heel decreases..so a sock should be born in a few days. Here's Ribbon Dance before winding her.</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370975514123871858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SomJxgCspnI/AAAAAAAAAv8/AD1bZFb7OZo/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+157.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><p></p><br /><p>The next bag was the nice project bag given by The Ravelry Team..a great little bag..with wonderful treasures inside...A skein of Berroco Wool yarn, a Namaste shopping bag and other materials..Thank you Ravelry...You treated us so well!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SomKwK0cikI/AAAAAAAAAwE/FM6oEa_YT2c/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+124.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370976590758709826" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SomKwK0cikI/AAAAAAAAAwE/FM6oEa_YT2c/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+124.JPG" border="0" /></a> This was my brush with fame..</p><p>What a terrific, fun group of folks they are!!</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>My Trader Joe shopping bag was delivered to me by Judy..filled with goodies from Oregon..A most gorgeous pottery mug from a local potter, a beautiful coffee table book on Oregon(which makes you want to go right back), a lovely calendar for 2010 with all the highlights that make you want to go back worse..and some of her delicious homemade Almost Seedless Raspberry Jelly!!</p><p>So..you see..."When one bag closes, Another bag opens"..and can a gal ever have TOO many bags..I think NOT.</p><p>Thanks for your recent comments and taking the time to humor me by stopping by..</p><p>It was a fun trip..so I wanted to make it fun in sharing..</p><p>Oh and Dana...you like the Keep Portland Weird sign?...I tried really hard to get a bumper sticker..Judy kept giving me chances but all I was getting was the bumper..it said.."Keep Portland Queer"~</p><p>I'll say..later on that~~</p>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-84887950651715705692009-08-15T21:47:00.010-05:002009-08-15T21:55:51.430-05:00Some Eye Candy to keep you busy..while I'm busy~Every Picture Tells a Story..Story!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod08B2lFMI/AAAAAAAAAvM/GxcDXC5breQ/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+074.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370389655300936898" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod08B2lFMI/AAAAAAAAAvM/GxcDXC5breQ/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+074.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0tB8ZVfI/AAAAAAAAAvE/P0nZ-0aA6KU/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+059.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370389397627295218" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0tB8ZVfI/AAAAAAAAAvE/P0nZ-0aA6KU/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+059.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0l-diEPI/AAAAAAAAAu8/QYLp0X4pY0A/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+056.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370389276433453298" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0l-diEPI/AAAAAAAAAu8/QYLp0X4pY0A/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+056.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0aU4kPHI/AAAAAAAAAu0/eiaOHpfge_4/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+144.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370389076293991538" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0aU4kPHI/AAAAAAAAAu0/eiaOHpfge_4/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+144.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0Hm0K0iI/AAAAAAAAAus/tFx2yK_mcfY/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+151.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370388754689872418" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sod0Hm0K0iI/AAAAAAAAAus/tFx2yK_mcfY/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+151.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sodz9OssjGI/AAAAAAAAAuk/kmCDVEPLqu8/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+141.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370388576417385570" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sodz9OssjGI/AAAAAAAAAuk/kmCDVEPLqu8/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+141.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SodzyP3ot3I/AAAAAAAAAuc/00c40M5wPzA/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+165.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370388387753146226" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SodzyP3ot3I/AAAAAAAAAuc/00c40M5wPzA/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+165.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SodzpIotIuI/AAAAAAAAAuU/cG8Q4Frcw9s/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+166.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370388231192650466" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SodzpIotIuI/AAAAAAAAAuU/cG8Q4Frcw9s/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+166.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-3522543640942265202009-08-15T11:40:00.011-05:002009-08-15T12:56:17.816-05:00SatuuurDay In The Park~<span style="color:#993399;">It seemed like the 4th of July!..I had the most fun I've had in eons..I guess my free spirited, independence came alive.</span><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><span style="color:#993399;">I had a early class on Sat. morning with Carson Demers..only 1 hour and it was called KnitteRx..I guess we're all guilty of sitting so that we can finish..JUST 1 more row..He suggested ways of sitting, supporting our butt, and most importantly ..no too sit for too long..get up and stand, walk, move around and knit..most enjoyable.</span><span style="color:#993399;">I caught the rail as soon as the class was over and headed out..no destination in mind other than the return to The Red Lion in time for The Ravelry Meet Up at 7..</span></div><br /><div><span style="color:#993399;">My first stop was The Saturday Market which was high on my list of want to do's but was afraid I'd not have the time..I milled around at the market area for a few hours, bought just a few cute items, grabbed a spring roll and beer and visited with folks I'd never seen before in my life, but..live a little, right? After I had seen all of the market, I headed to the waterfront. Do I look like an out of towner<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoboBGGNTSI/AAAAAAAAAtU/I4vpVjCeRxA/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+062.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370234711200058658" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoboBGGNTSI/AAAAAAAAAtU/I4vpVjCeRxA/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+062.JPG" border="0" /></a>? I felt like a Portlander...friendly and all~ I walked, and walked and walked some more and finally I found what I was sort of looking for:</span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc33cc;">I had seen this in passing while out with Judy on Thurs. and she had told me how good it was..I love oysters..any way you want to toss them at me...so I went in and sat for a bit, grabbed a little something to refresh me once again and then I ordered this scrumptious half order of oysters on half shell, she fixed me a variety sampler..my lips are still drooling as I remember</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc33cc;">eating them, savoring every bite and wishing Mike were here to enjoy with me..he too loves oysters.</span><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#993399;"></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SobpRyOiaHI/AAAAAAAAAtk/Zw0spAD-v7g/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+069.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370236097435691122" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SobpRyOiaHI/AAAAAAAAAtk/Zw0spAD-v7g/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+069.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#993399;"></span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc66cc;">I was finally all done and ready to seek more adventure and the 'Oyster Gal'..recommended that I go to The Chinese Gardens..that was really on my agenda also but I didn't realize I'd be so close to it at this time. I left the restaurant and headed towards the gardens...I soon saw a line..and thought oh geesh...I hate lines and I will NOT stand in line to pay to go see this..as I got closer and yes..I did step into the line for a second...to realize I was in line for VooDoo Donuts..It was tempting to stay in this line and forget the gardens..because this was about to rank on my <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sob0d_tNmGI/AAAAAAAAAuM/gK4eW4k8g7g/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+091.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370248401840347234" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/Sob0d_tNmGI/AAAAAAAAAuM/gK4eW4k8g7g/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+091.JPG" border="0" /></a>list too..even though I'm not a donut person..I understand you don't have to be to appreciate VooDoo's...I figured since I had been to Cupcake Johns..I didn't need 2 treats of this sort on the trip.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc66cc;">The Gardens were absolutely beautiful!..I did run through quickly but I still enjoyed their beauty thoroughly. I did take LOTS of photos here but I'll just leave one for your viewing pleasure...ok?</span> <span style="color:#cc66cc;">I would also recommend this as a nice stop if you had the time in your schedule.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#cc66cc;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#cc66cc;">After this I decided to just do more marathon walking and see where I ended up..I had a map but I didn't consult it until I was pretty sure I didn't have a clue where I was..but I quickly found a Starbucks, a kind gentleman and a street sign...all of which helped me find my way back to the trolley and then the rail. There is a story with this sign..but it's private and I won't share..But couldn't we all use a little bit of LOVE JOY..in our lives?...I loved witnessing this sign personally..more than once~</span><span style="color:#cc66cc;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370242915507712450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SobvephlMcI/AAAAAAAAAt8/cKK6LJHpwck/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+100.JPG" border="0" /></span></div></div></div></div></div></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SobzjfVkUmI/AAAAAAAAAuE/TY-mDPybdiE/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+101.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370247396718826082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SobzjfVkUmI/AAAAAAAAAuE/TY-mDPybdiE/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+101.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#cc66cc;">I headed back via the trolley to the rail and got dressed for The Ravelry Meet Up..</span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#cc66cc;">I think I will cover that separately..just because I've about overloaded you with a ton of stuff today.</span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#cc66cc;">Be safe and have a 'LOVE JOY' sort of weekend~</span></p></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-7981919841096619262009-08-14T13:41:00.005-05:002009-08-14T14:15:31.234-05:00How Did I FORGET?<div><div><div>Oh gosh..I forgot to mention ONE of the most important events of Thurs..and that was the opening of The Marketplace at 4:30. This was sort of the 'climax' of the day..much anticipation of the registered students to see what was behind those great big closed doors..it was open for 2 hours only..and just for US! I had been in earlier in the day because I was helping a vendor so I had a feel for where some booths I wanted to 'hit' were located..I guess you could say I wasn't alone in wanting to hit some special booths..because I waited in line to pay for about 30 minutes at Blue Moon...but from what I've heard that is 'nada' compared to the lines in MD. and NY. at the Fiber shows. I was greatly pleased with my purchases first day..but I did go to Blue Moon once again before the final day of SS..and made another purchase of a 'few' skeins...I was thinking of all the money I saved on shipping(isn't that valid)?</div><br /><br /><div>So...let's move on to Friday.</div><br /><br /><div>I did not have any classes on Fri..there weren't any that screamed at me, but we did have the Guinness World Record Attempt at 11:30, so we hung around the market and I helped John again by handing out coupons until 11:30 and after the attempt...Sallee, Judy and I took off for downtown..in search of this:<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369894572508862866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoWyqauwWZI/AAAAAAAAAs8/vEU_yWaS3wU/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+039.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><p>Sallee and I had both seen this mentioned on the SS Blog of Food Carts you should try..they did NOT lie..I had a perfectly awesome Salmon Burger and fries...From there we went in active pursuit of The Button Emporium..that was almost as much fun as a candy store..too bad they don't offer chocolate buttons or I'd have been in big trouble. The store is run by 2 of the most delightful ladies you'd ever meet..I found some gorgeous buttons for some 'gifties'..because I frankly do not sew..and haven't yet knit anything requiring buttons..Maybe I'll start using buttons on my dishcloths, for a new twist..If you ever get to Portland...this is a must stop..I was forewarned by a friend that had been several years ago..and she highly recommended this as a YES! After the BE, we walked a short distance to Josephine's, a fabric shop..some lovely fabric but again..I don't sew, but Sallee did score a few yds...and then to the famous Powell's...I'm sure in another life I may enjoy this..or just another time, but it was crowded and actually when I can order online..I don't need crowds, but it was a 'must do' of Portland. We headed back to the hotel and then went up to the 'bar' for some liquid refreshment and met up with more Ravelers.. had dinner and neither of us were giddy about the Sock Hop and had not attempted to get tickets..so it was an early night~</p><br /><p>I will leave you with this..being my first purchase. Do you recognize her?</p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369898359373536066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 155px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoW2G15pm0I/AAAAAAAAAtE/EBPxVE-26WY/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+152.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p>`</p>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-67834459610660939542009-08-13T07:12:00.005-05:002009-08-13T07:54:50.310-05:00Let's try this again<div><div><div>Seems that Blogger wanted to be a 'sogger' for me yesterday..I had it all ready and got some silly error and failed to save..bleh..</div><br /><div>I don't want to bore you with blow by blow..so off we go..</div><br /><div>The flights were as flights tend to be..one on time, one late etc...as a rule I don't fly Delta because I can never remember a time that there wasn't a delay..well, they upheld their reputation for me. We left L'burg precisely on time and I was very impressed with flying from their small airport..when we arrived in Atlanta, our flight was boarding..so I was giddy..didn't last for long..lol</div><br /><div>Once we got on the plane there was an issue with trying to find seats for some stand-by's..being a pilots wife and 2 boys.., then it seems they were not satisfied with the bathroom clean up from the former flight..so they had to call the cleaning crew back on..which gained a round of applause and hopes of taking flight soon...since our connection time in SLC was short..but we sat on the runway a bit longer before we actually took flight..meaning we arrived in Salt Lake City about 5 minutes before we were to depart..then another 10 min. it seemed before we were off the plane....to rush in and try to find our gate..to be told..it had been moved and we would be boarding the same plane we had arrived on...So at least sweating the big bullets of missing our flight were over..We arrived in Portland about 11:30 and found the Sock Summit Shuttle and arrived at The Red Lion at almost midnight..which is 3a.m. for me..yep, I was tired pup!..Of course there's a bit of unpacking to prepare for an early day ..because we were much too late to get registered. After only a few hours sleep, we were up to get started for the first day of Sock Summit...We had breakfast at the hotel cafe which was really decent..and there were many celebrity faces around the lobby..Lucy Neatby, Anna Zilboorg, Judith McCuin..and as the days went on..there were more..they will enter later</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Registration was a breeze, they were SO prepared for us..then it was just milling around among hundreds of other anxious knitters..meeting many faces that you had only seen names of..Seeing The Yarn Harlot whisk around like the energizer bunny, Tina rushing around in total control and all the rest of the STR team..again, they were amazingly ready for whatever would happen.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>My first class began at 10 a.m. with Judy Becker..Judy's Magic Loop..she's a terrific teacher, funny and very entertaining. I can't say I grasped the entire concept but perhaps with time I will..or maybe I won't..I've lived this long without, so it will be ok..huh?<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQIJdFijgI/AAAAAAAAAsc/sR1LN5gkioQ/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369425614252183042" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQIJdFijgI/AAAAAAAAAsc/sR1LN5gkioQ/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+004.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div>I had volunteered to help Angela and John of Serendipitous Ewe with their set up or whatever they needed me for whenever I had available time..so after this class, I helped John for a while putting up shelves, fondling yarn(ooops..I meant tagging) and took the time to walk around and get a feel for the marketplace..yep, it was overwhelming!..There was so much yarn and so little time!!!!</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>When all this first began I had gotten a pm one day from a lady in Portland and we continued to be in contact until the Summit..and had made plans to meet, run about etc..After helpi<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQJZTas4OI/AAAAAAAAAsk/nXZssZDMhVA/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369426986046120162" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 151px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQJZTas4OI/AAAAAAAAAsk/nXZssZDMhVA/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+017.JPG" border="0" /></a>ng John, Judy Solanki my new Portland friend and I took off for lunch, a car tour of the city and a trip to Trader Joe's for room supplies..She was just the most pleasant, warm and dear person one would want to meet...I treasure the time we were able to spend together and so happy to have a friend in Portland.</div><br /><br /><div>Here's JUDY!!..seems to be a popular name so far, eh?</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Then it was time for The Opening Reception which I felt was so heartwarming...to hear all the trials and tribulations they had encountered to bring this great event to Portland.</div><br /><div>I also had the privilege of meeting Jo Watson of British Yarns, She was there to promote the 2010 Knitting Camp to be held in Scotland..during the reception she was interviewed by a reporter for The Oregon News...there's a link for this..but I can't find it at the moment, but they did a nice story on The Summit and Jo was mentioned as well as<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQL_CuzCFI/AAAAAAAAAss/K0SvNXjiOzM/s1600-h/Sock+Summit+2009+013.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369429833425291346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoQL_CuzCFI/AAAAAAAAAss/K0SvNXjiOzM/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+013.JPG" border="0" /></a> Judy. Judy had invited Jo to stay with her during SS. Jo was also interviewed by Vogue Knitting while there..quite the little celebrity Jo..Cheers..again!!!</div><div> </div><div>I was off to bed quite early and slept like a baby..for yet another early day..Friday! </div></div></div>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-25550037974237857272009-08-11T20:16:00.003-05:002009-08-11T20:26:01.400-05:00SS Meltdown<div>Even though I'm home, I haven't reconnected with the time..</div><br /><div>This is going to be short..and sweet..just going to tease you a bit..</div><br /><div>It was fabulous, met some totally awesome people..well worth the money and time..just wish I'd had a few extra days to have really done all the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Portlander</span> stuff..</div><br /><div>I will share more with you and hopefully show you much of all I purchased..I may not be able to disclose every little item..YET..<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368881128650338546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SoIY8OKAcPI/AAAAAAAAAr8/q-YtkWpyg-M/s200/Sock+Summit+2009+030.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><p>This was too funny...because Judy and I had been out and about for the afternoon and we parked in front of a Tattoo Parlor..discussion on Tatts..etc..as we walked to Cupcake Jones..a must if you are in Portland.</p><p>The Marketplace opened that evening and Lantern Moon had these cute little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tatts</span>. they were giving away..Mine is actually still legible.</p><p>Enough of my wild side..More tomorrow..all the photos are loaded..it's a matter of sharing.</p><p>Hugs and love to all of you for your months of support while I ranted on about this adventure.</p><blockquote></blockquote>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31217928.post-2662703722501156842009-07-11T11:28:00.006-05:002009-07-11T12:10:06.109-05:00Ten little things I challenged myself to do..One I swore I'd never do..or not so soon anyway..<div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div>Hey Gals and Guys,</div><br /><br /><div>It's been a while..actually judging by the photo, I know exactly how long..too long.</div><br /><br /><div>I am sure I mentioned out here in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">blogland</span> that I was thinking about or going to Sock Summit in August..well, as it turns out, I am definitely going. As I was reading various threads of a very busy and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">controversial</span> blog I found one from a shop in Oregon, Dublin Bay that collects for Afghans for Afghans and they made the suggestion that instead of an afghan, why not socks since we were coming to a sock conference..I quickly responded and said..although I am not a great <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sockster</span>, I will make at least 1 pair and bring for your box. A few days later I was knitting along on a gorgeous pair of socks for moi and I picked up an article that alluded to the Children from Afghanistan and their lack of clothing..that socks are their foot cover..they don't or rarely have shoes..that's why it's so important to make them of wool..there was something in that article that hurt me so deeply..that I put my socks aside and said to myself..damn girl..you've got socks, you've got shoes..you've got lots of both..can't you do more than 1 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">measly</span> pair?..SO I challenged myself to do 10 pair..I'd been emailing and had developed a wonderful chat <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">relationship</span> with a lady in Oregon and a Sock <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Summitress</span>..so she joined me in my quest..however she did me one better..she did 10 and felt so good about it, she did 2 more pair for a dozen..way to go Dear Judy!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>She now has me questioning my good intentions and if I can muster enough steam to do 2 more pair I will but..stick me with a fork..I've DONE 10 pair..and I'm going to show them to you..right here..bored or not..</div><br /><br /><div>I give thanks to Marianne for sharing this pattern with me a few years back and I had used it <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">periodically</span>, now I have it memorized..so there is no excuse to not keep a little box of these going at all times.</div><br /><br /><div>Also mentioning this to my Knit Group..and Dana steps up to the plate and makes 10 Gorgeous Baby hats for me to take also..how good is she? I think she's right up there with the angels..I'm so blessed to call her a dear friend! Plus she shared extra wools she had so she is also a part of these socks...we're not sock sisters for nuthing@!!</div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljAtf9IBLI/AAAAAAAAArU/ZEUyQeYoO3E/s1600-h/Montpelier+051.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357243644661728434" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljAtf9IBLI/AAAAAAAAArU/ZEUyQeYoO3E/s320/Montpelier+051.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Ok</span>..for Pix 1..and these are not in the order they were made:<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357243814295522050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljA3X4-SwI/AAAAAAAAArc/ZeZW8_Pj0Qc/s200/Montpelier+049.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357244188002681490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljBNIDtApI/AAAAAAAAArs/uxI2-Uc4Pwg/s200/Montpelier+056.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357243945637560898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljA_BLWwkI/AAAAAAAAArk/egYuGpQ2VNE/s200/Montpelier+050.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Ok</span>..Not going to bore you with all 10 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">individual</span> pair..I'm not on my computer and Moth's is weirding out on me..or perhaps it's my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">skillz</span>.</p><br /><p>Then..a few weeks ago..maybe over a month, I started getting this new car itch..don't you hate that? I tried every ointment known to man to try and get rid of but I was hit hard.. I started at the dealership where I'd bought my previous car..Firstly there was nothing wrong with my car..it was a 2003 Black Mercedes C240 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">matic</span>..meaning it was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">AWD</span>..it had under 44,000 miles..The only issue we were having was...Mike has had 3 knee surgeries, I'm tall and with Mom's situation a low car isn't her best friend, so I thought I'd buy a small SUV which would be higher and easier..so I found online that Mercedes had just that exact thing..being made for 2010 but on the market now..so I made an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">appt</span>, went over and drove, loved it, brought it home for the night..thinking oh yes, this is going to work..they kept hedging on what they would allow me..first, they said they would give me...the bottom price allowed for trade on this car..I'm like..oh yeah..you think..my car is a 'cherry'..it has new tires..it's never been wrecked, never had a smoker inside..never had this/that etc..so I said..I think NOT..so then they called in the 'master of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">manipulations</span> in car dealers'..It was instant dislike..when he called Mike by name as if he'd known him 4ever and wanted to know how he was doing..and how my Mom was doing..etc..hoping he would build my confidence in him as a car sales person..so he started shuffling more numbers and started with this..well, if we did this..and you did that..we could do this..I said NO..I've told YOU..I will give you $X for your car and my car..this is it..oh we can't do that..I said..well..we surely can't..You won't sit here and make me such a ludicrous offer and expect me to drive your car away..it says nothing that I've bought 3 new cars here in the last 15 years and always been able to deal, it seems to me that you no longer care to do business..so I got up shook hands and walked away...got in my little black <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">mercedes</span> and came home...I figured they would call back..you know, they always do..well after 2 weeks they had not, so I emailed the initial guy I had dealt with and told him I very much liked that car and I was still willing to give them the amount I had offered them..but that it appeared to me that their interest didn't lie in selling cars at this time...and that I was sure I would find a car that would serve me well and that Mercedes did not build the only SUV on the road...he wrote back and wished me well in my purchase..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">lol</span></p><br /><p>I had been doing lots of online research during all this time and had almost 99% decided I was going to go with Honda..I liked the reviews, I had checked out the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">CRV's</span> and knew that was about the size I'd like..so I made an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">appt</span> to go check those out..It was a most positive experience..they did not have a car I wanted on the lot..and were not pushy in getting one..I actually thought, maybe I'll just wait and get a 2010..but as I said..the bug was nibbling away..so a few days later, my salesperson calls and says I have one in the pkg. you want but not your color if you'd like to drive..well, life was really busy and I didn't get over to do it..about 5 or so days later I called and said I was coming..he said, well we sold that one but..we have 3 that just came in this morning on a truck and we have a beige..I told him I'd be there in half hour..they had to put a sticker on it so I could test drive and go over it..so when I tested it, I literally drove it with the plastic still on the seats etc...I drove it, I loved it..esp. the color..it's so pretty!..but mostly the guy I worked with was just a Gem..no pressure, no BS..just business and very good business..I went to test drive..I drove it home..I love the car..it is actually my favorite vehicle that Ive owned including 2 BMW's and a Mercedes..this is my favorite!..It is just the perfect height for Mike and Mom..and I love 'being high' when I drive!...Here she is..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Berroco</span> Beige Hazel!</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357249805186546514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ll8B90j2ZOs/SljGUFssu1I/AAAAAAAAAr0/aOxwguJgJhw/s200/Montpelier+048.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p></p>Diannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00961596741973078919noreply@blogger.com8