SHE SEAMS TO KNIT

Wow...weirdness.

2006-02-13T16:07:00.000-05:00

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Jennifer!

Jennifer can be very poisonous if injected intravenously.
According to the story, Pinocchio was made of jennifer.
South Australia was the first place to allow jennifer to stand for parliament.
Only 55 percent of Americans know that the sun is made of jennifer.
Jenniferocracy is government by jennifer.
In Vermont, the ratio of cows to jennifer is 10:1!
If a snake is born with two heads, the heads will fight over who gets jennifer.
All gondolas in Venice must be painted black unless they belong to jennifer!
If you lie on your back with your legs stretched it is impossible to sink in jennifer.
Olive oil was used for washing jennifer in the ancient Mediterranean world.

Must stop thinking

2006-02-09T09:32:00.000-05:00

My poor little brain is but a pile o'mush these past few months...early mid-life crisis anyone? Yikes...I honestly thought that I was equipped to deal with just about anything that life threw my way, seems I need to rethink this! Anyhoo...to catch up...

December was blur of travel anxiety! Good anxiety though...lots of packing, and re packing, since the carrier we flew had SEVERE limits on luggage weight. Which is all fine and good, BUT...it didn't take into account my plan. You see, I've had some icky experiences with lost luggage (which eventually surfaced, but still!) as well as a 3 1/2 yr old to tote around. So, my plan was to pack two suitcases and one carry on (equipped with a portable DVD player-rec'd as a Christmas gift-but refused to work on a plane...ugh). Well...packing for three people in two suitcases doesn't come in under the weight guidelines that were proposed. ICK. I do not like packing. It is most definitely NOT my forte. All ended well though. No lost luggage, incredibly happy kiddo who (thank god) flies with ease...unlike his mama.

Travel details...in a vain and successful attempt to escape some family misery this Christmas, we left our snowy and frigid Ottawa town for sunny and hot Curacao. What a fab island. We stayed at Breezes which was terrific for families, wouldn't recommend it for couples. But...it was great for Noah. He LOVED every minute of it. Lots of kids to play with, lots of pools to choose from, lots o'food (although it was most poopy buffet style stuff) and frosty beverages...

and the sea. How I love the sea...

The sounds, the fish, the salt water (which mended my toe...whole other story, but let's just say I my middle toe nail picked a fight with a beach lounger, and the lounger won, my pedicure lost.Ick.)

Hubby is a Master Scuba Diver...so he was in his glory. He's really only experienced diving in the Caribbean once before (St. Lucia). He's been refining his skills in the mighty (mighty icky) St. Lawrence River in the Brockville/Kingston area...so this was a treat for him. He was able to take quite a few underwater photos, but alas, we have not yet scanned them.

A shot of diver hubby above water with our sea/boat lover kiddo...

We were able to explore around Punda/Otrobanda a bit as well. The architecture is fab...very Dutch, which reminded us of our trip to Amsterdam. (How I miss Europe...sigh)

Punda market

Punda streetscape, taken from Otrobanda

We took Noah to the Curacao Aquarium...a neat little place. I don't really frequent touristy type animal attractions as I usually leave feeling horrible. I'm really against animal captivity for profit. The aquarium had a few large tanks with local fish, floral and fauna. Kinda neat. But what impressed me most was the outdoor area. There were a few fenced off areas in the open water with sea turtles (nearly lost it when I saw the SIZE of these guys...wow!!!), sharks, dolphins, etc. There were lots of educational programs as well (Noah was able to feed a nurse shark...COOL!!) On that note, we signed up for a Dolphin experience (I was REALLY torn about this...but wanted Noah to experience this). I was able to grab this one shot of Noah, his dad and the family we were teamed up with...

Theresa!!! She was a sweetie of a dolphin...What a cool experience. We basically stood on the platform and the trainer gave us a blurb about dolphins in general and then we were able to participate in some training maneouvres. Very cool. Noah was terrified at first, but soon warmed up to Theresa and still talks about her to this day. We purchased a few great shots that the staff photographer had taken of us...yet again, they're not scanned.

And a final artsy shot....oh the joy of a digital camera!

On the knitting front-I've attempted many projects, and given my current state of mind (that would be mush) I have jumped from project to project to find that instant gratification...alas, I still haven't found what I'm looking for. Here's a glimpse at what's on the needles at this point.

MO...

I've signed up for the Harlot's Olymics as well...a cute little button, and a knit along may just be the push I need to get out of this funk. I'm planning a Placket sweater in orange, navy and grey...we'll see how it goes. Needles and yarn are ready to go for tommorow.

Also, Noah rec'd his final package for the Secret Pal Kids' edition from Billy! I did take photos of all the cool stuff he rec'd, but can't seem to find the file I put them in...silly computer! So, to Billy...Noah thanks you you very much and sends a big high five across the pond! Also...Andrea sent me a beautiful hank of Debbie Bliss...bliss indeed! Thanks so much Andrea!

So..in an effort to get myself out of this gloomy funk I seem to be in, I'm spending the morning updating the blog, and I might just jaunt over to Lolly's blog and seriously consider the Project Spectrum activities! Looks like fun...

two months...

2006-01-19T13:20:00.000-05:00

...whoa...no excuses for the absence. But in my defense, here's a glimpse of my life in the past few months!

*I have a 3 1/2 yr old who's "independence" is completely welcomed and feared!
*Family (just the three of us!) trip to Curacao...pictures are coming--such an amazing time, despite the "toe" incident
*Three Christmas celebrations, at our house, in a 2 week span
*booking tickets to see the best band ever (well...not EVER, but pretty close)The soundtrack tune/video on the blog will give a hint
*Knitting...and more knitting
*Decision to completely change career goals-at 33...not such an easy feat.
*Enrolling in Accounting and HR night classes (YIKES! Not so easy for a social worker-ish type of chick to contemplate, let alone study!)

Umm...there's more, I swear--I'm in such a back-to-school blur! Ick...

Funny story: We LOVE dim sum...love it! Every week or so, we trek to Chinatown here in Ottawa and indulge (read-gorge) on yummy Chinese delights. Noah, has taken to our longing for dim sum, so much so, that he requests it, alot. So...as we're booting around town, we see a tour bus with Chinese script on the back, and Noah shouts out "I want to go on the Dim Sum bus!" Hee hee...I love my boy!

Pics, and fun family stories to follow!

Way to go boys!

2005-11-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

Another zine...by men with sticks! Yay for them!

Check it out!

Damn it...

2005-11-02T20:22:00.000-05:00

Don't you just hate it when you compose a lengthy post avec photos, links, etc and then your screen pops up an error message and shuts down....without saving your work.

Will have to post tommorow.

Just back from the Wiggles Live concert....wow...that's all I have to say....wow. Noah enjoyed it...will give a full review tommorow if I can squeeze in some time!

Night all...

A new online knitzine...

2005-11-02T05:58:00.000-05:00

A proper post will follow shortly. For some reason or another, I haven't found the time to sit and post about all the fun we've been having up here in the not so cold north.

Until then, a new knitzine...a bit dark, but kinda cool projects and I see myself being a reader.

Yarn Harlot....You floor me!

2005-09-28T19:44:00.000-04:00

So funny...call it...toll free (Canada and US)

1-877-SOS-KNIT

So, so funny.....

Do it...Call!

Book Worm

2005-09-28T16:13:00.000-04:00

I haven't read a book, seriously, in I can't tell you how long. Today...at the gym...I finished a book that I started, ready for this? Yesterday...at the gym! YAY!!! Tuesdays With Morrie was FAN-freakin-TASTIC! Loved it!! It so reminded me of a social work prof I had the pleasure of knowing. Such an amazing man...who, sadly, I have loss contact with. Maybe I'll track him down again...just for a coffee or a simple chat on the phone. He was important to me...

On to other things. I joined the Ottawa Knitting Guild. The first meeting was...hmmm...ok. It was a vendor's market sort of deal, with a little bit of show and tell happening at the beginning. I'm not an overly shy person, but, I didn't feel 100% comfortable there...as though I was intruding on a secret club or something. I'm being silly I'm sure...it's just that most of the ladies there had "tables"...know what I mean? They had tables were they always go, with the firends that are always there. Not much room for newbies...oh well, I'll try again next month-there's a guest speaker coming...so maybe an opportunity to chat with others a bit more. I did scoop up the newest Noro book, and two bundles of beautiful fibre from Fleece Artist. I only have a pic of the Goldielocks Shawl-the other kit is for thrummed mitts...with mohair! YUM!! Fleece Artist rocks!

The quilting guild is up and going as well...next meeting is on Monday. The programming this year is much better, and I've met lots of cool people with amazing talents. Lots of fun, if only the cheesy politics wasn't there. I had to "gently" push a person who was supposed to be "helping" me with membership, out. She constantly came up with excuses as to why she couldn't do something for me, etc. The first meeting was a nightmare, she did squat to help out, so I waited a few days and then sent her (I hate doing this) an email to clear the air. She rebutted (as I assumed she would) with every excuse in the book, and ended it with "given the results of my cancer test tommorow, I may not be able to redeem myself." AS IF!!! Having dealt with the whole cancer issue myself, I was horrified that she would use this as a last blow. HONESTLY! Before I sound all callous and stuff, she made no mention of said tests previously. She has stepped down...and hopefully we can get on with it.

Noah has settled into school famously. He seems so much happier at this school than at his previous one. He's taking swimming lessons at school as well and had a bit of a scare as he jumped into the deep end without a life jacket on. The little fish is just fine...but learned a quick lesson. He's been on a field trip as well...which means his first ride on a school bus!

On the knitting front-I finished up a Sophie bag using some Lamb's Pride-love this stuff...picked it up at a little sheep show in upstate New York.

I'm also working on a Harry Potter scarf using some Merino wool...yes, it's not machine washable-but the colours were perfect and I just had to. I was tossing around the idea of Noah being Harry for Halloween, but he doesn't really "get" the whole Harry Potter thing quite yet. Maybe a pirate? Buzz Lightyear? Hmmm...not sure. He's so easy about this..."yeah, whatever mom!"

We took him to see Sharon and Bram...from Sharon, Lois and Bram fame...more fun for me than for him...but hey whatever!!! We also picked up tickets for the Wiggles Live! Dear lord...what has happened to us?!?!? The Wiggles??? Honestly...

A new hobby-punchneedle! Fun little class that I took at my local quilt shop...here's a little prim Santa in progress...it's so easy and mindless, no counting, etc.

SOCKAPALTWOZA UPDATE!!! YAY!!! Thanks SO much to Stephanie in Atlanta for my FABULOUS, can't take them off they're too perfect, socks! And, low and behold...in the same darn yarn I chose for my sock pal...hee hee!! LOVE THEM...and the Georgia Peach butter as well...it's, ahem...gone! DELISH!!! Thanks so so much...you're too sweet! Here they are...after being worn and finally washed! Actually, they're on my feet again today...such a perfect fit...and beautifully stitched!

SECRET PAL FOR KIDS UPDATE....

Another package from lovely SP in England arrived at Noah's door. He was VERY excited by all of the contents! We had problems with him actually opening the next gift...he would open one, and be totally enthralled with it and would forget that there were so many more to open! Noah's pal has been far too generous...he's been more than delighted with all of his fun pressies...a big thank you goes out to our little pal across the pond!

Check out the cool frisbee...DH and I were having a blast with it...so cool!

Einstein, was not so impressed by the frisbee....

RAOK...the lovely Julie sent me the sweetest little good luck crane...it's found a special spot on my desk! Thanks for the wonderful RAOK!

Autumn is here...the leaves are just barely starting to change, pumpkins are starting to sprout up at local farmers' stands, I love this time of year. Seriously. My home dec stuff is waiting patiently. I usually go all out for Halloween, with the creepy music, decorations, fun stuff. I hope to dress up this year...we used to dress up for the kiddos before we had Noah, but DH scared the poop out of one little trick or treater, so we kind of toned it down after that. Hee hee hee!!!

We've done a charity walk/run every year since Noah was born, this year the proceeds went to Roger's House. An excellent cause indeed. Roger Neilson was a fine man.

Notice little man is wearing an Ottawa Senators team jersey???

With that...I end this entry with a hearty...

GO SENS GO!!!!!! (for those of you not into hockey...the Ottawa Senators are the best (ahem) damn team in the NHL...)

September. Oy!

2005-09-07T16:16:00.000-04:00

Unbelievable! September already. It feels like summer today in balmy Ottawa though...it's a super sunny day...and warm to boot. It seems if we're not complaining about the weather, we're complaining about gas prices. Reading the newspaper daily has put these trivial things into perspective. My heart goes out to those who have been affected by Katrina. What a devastating loss...there are no words.

Here, in the cozy confines of my home and in my car, I have been cranking out a few instant gratification projects. Especially after a visit to this shop. WOW!!! Heaven I tell you. We have a pretty good selection of shops in Ottawa...but none that really carry the yarns I've been coveting (read=buying on ebay). So when I found this website...I nearly passed out! I came out with my Visa still intact, but was able to scoop up a few balls of Kureyon (fingerless mitts), some novelty stuff for a scarf for my mom and some Colinette Fandango for this scarf...

The pattern is in this booklet...fun stuff!

As a last hurrah, we took the little man to Montreal to see the Biodome...well, really the penguins. You see, I HAD to see March of the Penguins. People...I was the only one giggling throughout the entire opening scene. Such majestic creatures, yes, but man...such a funny sight to see thousands of them, walking along in a line. Hee hee!!! Small things amuse small minds I suppose. Such a great film, and excellent choice in narrator (Morgan Freeman truly rocks!). Anyhoo..off the the Biodome. Which kept the little man's attention for such a short period of time, we decided to introduce him to the Metro. We don't have a subway system in Ottawa...so we thought he'd get a kick out of it. He did...witness below.

Montreal is a fab city...so much to see and do. We hit the usual Old Montreal haunts-Notre Dame, Old Port, etc. and grabbed a bite to eat. Grilled paninis...yum. We hopped back on the Metro, and drove on home! I was able to finish a quick scarf for my mom using a skein each of Pom (funky novelty yarn to work with) and some navy eyelash sort of stuff as well. Honkin' needles=done quick. Mom doesn't like her scarves long...just wide...so VOILA...

Sunday...my better half was scuba diving near Rockport, along the lovely St. Lawrence River, and Noah and I spent the day shopping for micro clothes. (Read=little man scored bags full of clothes, mommy=nada).

Monday we were off to Gatineau Park. I love it here. We spent many days hiking here, before we had Noah and even when he was a wee lad. It's a bit cumbersome to hike now...little man's legs can't quite keep up and there's some pretty rough terrain on some of the trails. We still go up and stomp around the MacKenzie King estate...which is stunning...truly. Here's a few pics of the man hanging out in the ruins..

And...well...here's Kureyon hanging out in the ruins too!

A quick trip back to Ottawa (not totally unscathed...I ended up with a huge gash on the palm of my hand and a disgusting bruise on my leg...way to go Miss Graceful!)-I was able to finish up a fingerless mitten though...

Voila...a fingerless mitt in lovely Noro Kureyon..which, gasp, I can now get at a LYS! YAHOO!!! Pattern compliments of Wendy.

Tuesday...Noah started back at his Montessori School. All went well....the only separation anxiety being felt was by Mommy and Daddy. We soothed our aching hearts (enter drama queen!!) with vats of latte...and felt much better. Here's the man in the parking lot...this is the only pic we could snag...he refused to show off his little summer uniform. In the fall he'll be wearing the full dress pants/shirt and tie/cardigan ensemble. So. frickin. cute. Enough said.

I rec'd an order from Knitter's Review awhile back and forgot to post...here she is...

...my little basket full o'stuff! I love this basket, but was a bit surprised by the size of it. It's a fab size, but I honestly thought it was smaller. It had been on back order for a few months, so I was super delighted to receive it, along with some other goodies in the mail. Yay!

You may also see a drop spindle peeking out...I took the bait and ordered one from ebay, along with an instructional book and some practice fleece. I have already begged a local shop owner to give me a hand...so this may be my next little hobby. Sigh...so much to do, so little time!

Other tidbits...I attended a fantastic little seminar on Buddhism at the local library last night. My Catholic mom went silent on the phone when I told her. Funny...it's good to keep your folks on their toes I think! Hee.

Also attended my first stitch and bitch...very weird feeling. Almost like a blind date no? We chatted as though we'd known one another for ages...kinda cool. I'll probably catch up with them again in a few weeks.

Quilt guild is gearing to start up soon as well and I'm contemplating joing the Knitting Guild as well. We'll see...there are still some courses I'd like to take at the local college to finish up my Trauma/Addictions counselling certificate thingy.
More time please....

I'm off...little man is causing some serious chaos somewhere outside...he's awfully quiet which is never good!

RAOK!!!

2005-08-25T21:06:00.000-04:00

Almost forgot...geez...where is my brain lately??

I was RAOK'd by the lovely Knit Chick with these fabby note cards...Thanks so so much!! I love them!!!

Summer lovin'

2005-08-25T19:32:00.000-04:00

Umm...I'm going to stop making excuses for not blogging...starting...Tomorrow!

Busy, busy, busy!!! It's been a great summer so far I think. Great weather, loads of day trips, a bit of knitting and a wee bit of quilting.

Noah has adjusted well to his new Montessori school...thank god! We had such a nightmarish experience at the previous one. He seems pretty darned happy...which is all we really want! He's been churning out art work like there's no tomorrow...it's awesome! I'm finally getting over the obsession I have with having NOTHING on the front of the refrigerator. (Am I weird???)

We have also introduced him to a new babysitter...and it's working out great! YAY!!! We've been able to hit a few movies, cafes, and managed to grab a bite to eat without the wee one! Movies...Skeleton Key (loved it) and 40-Year Old Virgin (definitely funny...but not as hilarious as I thought it would be.) I also took Noah to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Now...I have always loved the Gene Wilder version, and definitely loved Roald Dahl's books...and although Johnny Depp completely creeped me out...I did enjoy this flick. Noah was in hysterics over the squirrel incident. Hee hee!!!

I've joined the gym again. Yay for me. I was stuck in a pretty awful rut a few months ago, feeling pretty dismal about the future, my self, etc. So...with the extra poundage creeping on, and with the encouragement of my cardiologist, I joined and haven't looked back. Today...pain. I am definitely learning that I no longer have the capabilities that my 20 year old body did!! YIKES!!! Anyway...it's been an interesting foray back into the gym cult. I'm enrolled at an all women's gym...which is interesting. It's weird to not have guys leering, or beef heads walking around grunting and groaning and smelling all icky. It's nice to be able to wear whatever...and not worry about any unsightly *ahem* love handles popping out of said micro shirt!

DH surprised me with the sweetest little iPod shuffle as well...LOVE IT!!! I can see being addicted to the iTunes store very soon. It's such a marvie invention and definitely contributes to my zone out time on the treadmill! I'm a lucky girl.

Ok...on the knitting front. I finished my Sockapal-two-za socks...I hope they fit, and I hope the recipient likes the colourway...I've only knit one pair before this...so I'm still a rookie.

I was so inspired by this adventure into sock land...that I spun off a pair for Noah as well. Hee! He has to wear a uniform in Sept (AWWWWWWWW!!!!)and needs to have grey socks...so there...grey socks.

What else...a "so close to being finished I can taste it" Tempting.

A "fringeless" Lena Brown shawl...love the way this baby turned out...The colours are so rich I think.

I'm still plugging away at hubby's alpaca sweater. It's such a boring knit though...almost as mind numbing as the ribbing in Tempting. At least I had colour changes in that one though! I may finish it for Christmas...maybe!!!

Oh and babies...babies...babies!!! Our friends are expecting a wee one to arrive on Oct. 9..so I thought it would be most appropriate for him to have a wee pumpkin hat. How frickin' cute is that??? Our neighbours are also expecting...she LOVES fall...so she will also be a recipient of one of these hats. Such a quick knit fix.

What else...weddings...two of them! I thought our wedding going days were over (except for a few second time around shin digs that may be coming up in the future!!!). The folks that own our local scuba diving shop are tying the knot this weekend. YAY!!!

So...a raggy quilt for them!

I made one of these for Noah last year in mega watt colours. I wanted to do a red and white traditional quilt for them, but figured that this would get far more use. I chose red, white and blue flannel...suits their personalities well. These quilts wash up like there's no tomorrow. They actually look better the more times you spin them through the washing machine and dryer. The fringes become far more raggy and cozy looking. I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. Here's a few views...front and back!

I have another one of these cut and ready to sew for a wedding we have in Oct. A friend of DH's is getting married in a Bahai ceremony at the Museum of Civilization. It's going to be a beautiful one I'm sure. Our good old Roman Catholic wedding will seem so ordinary compared to this ceremony I'm sure. I hope it's bit shorter...ours was almost 2 hours long..*ahem*..we had some serious wine drinking to catch up on after that!! The fabrics for this quilt are a little more muted and soft...willow green, soft mauve, ivory, etc.

It's such a difficult thing making a gift for someone. I've only made a few things for immediate family (read..my mom, Noah), so I'm a bit nervous.

Also...big news for Noah!!! He rec'd his first SP for Kids package!! How exciting is that???? Such a cool idea...thanks again Kerrie for organizing this! He rec'd so many nice treats! A super cool VW van, a magic money bank (wish it would magically make money appear instead of disappear :), an awesome Lego comic-which my husband spent an hour reading...we don't have anything like that here!, a fun little key chain, and a sheet of farm/tractor jellies to stick on Noah's bathroom mirror...SO GENEROUS!!! Thanks so much to Noah's SP...he was so excited to receive a package from the postman (with a Royal Mail postmark no less)! Almost as excited as he is to pack up the next parcel to be sent to his SP....Fun times!!

I should run...lots of updating to do for our quilt guild as well. First meeting is in a few weeks. Should be a fun year...being on the executive has, yet again, opened my eyes. It's amazing how difficult it is for a group of adults to play nice. It would make for an interesting sociological study I think!!!

Good nite all!!! A few more pics...I can't resist. We've been without a digital camera and I've been too lazy to scan photos. <>

Busy times=no blog!

2005-07-21T18:47:00.000-04:00

Oh my...has it really been that long since my last post??

Hmmm...what has happened in my wee corner of the world?

Noah has been enjoying his summer holiday--lots of day and weekend trips here there and everywhere! We learned along time ago that it is MUCH better to keep him busy and to expose him to lots of different environments...it's totally exhausting, but in the end, well worth the lack o' sleep! He's a an age (3 1/2 yrs) where he is equal parts of sheer joy and sheer hell :)

He's currently involved in a gym program as well as...get this...cooking classes! Too much fun! He'll be starting summer school (aka summer camp) at his new Montessori school in a few weeks--enter end of summer knitting extravaganza! He's also taking part in Kerrie's Secret Pal for kids (cool, huh?)We had great fun shopping for his secret pal....girls are SO MUCH fun to shop for!!! YAY!!!

I've been plugging away at my stripey version of Tempting, finished up a lovely Lena Brown shawl-just needs a little fringe action, finished up a sweet little Sophie bag for gifting as well as a felted iPod pouch (for the iPod I've been hinting at for a few months now-techie hubby is not a huge follower of the Apple crowd). We also have two new babies coming soon-which means knitting sweet little things. One baby will arrive in Ocotber-so I MUST knit him a pumpkin hat. The other wee one is due in February, but his/her mom LOVES the fall...so, another pumpkin hat! I'm sure other items will follow as well.

I've also developped a renewed interest in my historical leanings. My mom and dad came to visit for an extended Canada Day fest (by the way...should you ever decide to come to Ottawa to visit--COME ON CANADA DAY--it simply rocks!!!)and we were able to visit Upper Canada Village. Inspiration got the better of me and I was inclined to drive back for yet another visit a week later, and purchase a season's pass. It's a beautiful little village with tons of historical buildings and fabulous interpreters who are more than generous with their time to explain all things 1860.

After cruising around their website, I noticed that they're holding a traditional 1860 Fall Fair...all entries must be historical accurate. So....being a sucker for this sort of thing, and feeling a need to challenge myself, I've decided I will enter at least one item for judging. I purchased a whack load of wool which was made at the operating mill on the premises and have been checking out eBay for Godey's Lady's books as well as Peterson's magazines. I've also checked out a few books from the library which are just awesome. Problems I've encountered thus far include weird needle sizes, fibres which are readily available anymore
(Berlin wool for instance) and patterns with different abbreviations. I've figured a few of these out, but will have to check with someone at the Village to be sure that the fibres I've chosen to work with are acceptable period pieces.

Also....I've decided I'd like to take a swing at spinning. I've contacted the local Spinner's Guild and unfortunately, they meet on the same night as my Quilt Guild. Which sucks! But, I've already had one fine shop owner offer to teach me on a drop spindle as well as on a wheel, when I'm ready! Yay!!! New hobby!!! I think I'll check into this in the Fall.

I'm also working on two flannel raggy quilts for two weddings that we have coming up in August and October. These are so easy, instant gratification....that is, once all of the cutting is done...ugh. Quilting would be so much more appealing to me right now if there wasn't as much cutting and stuff. I feel so unfocussed lately...is it the heat, my age,or just a case of the extended "blahs".

Anyhoo..must run...the blog is a work in progress and I still have more tinkering to do! Photos to follow soon...I forgot to mention that I lost our digital camera, bought one a few days ago, and of course, found the old one...UGH!!!!

Happy Summer!

A Mish Mash o'Stuff

2005-05-30T20:51:00.000-04:00

So, hello!

In a vain attempt to look like I'm a faithful blogger, I have decided to make this a multi-faceted blog entry. I'll post pictures like there's no tomorrow, I'll give you a quilt show critique, I'll tell you about my recent projects, I'll share some family stuff and heck, I'll even make a few political statements too.

You have been warned:)

First off, I've finished Klaralund...yippee! What a fun, easy knit this one was. I used 5.0 mm circs throughout and used Noro Kureyon in colourway 95 (I think...yikes...I'll check on that one.) I'm pleased overall, but I think my colour choice was a bit dark. It's difficult to tell what your fabric will end up looking like when you check out a big old ball of Kureyon. I love knitting with this yarn though and the pattern was great. This will definately be worn.

My Honeymoon Cami was finished awhile ago, I was hoping to model it, but alas, the sun is not behaving in my favour...I can't bear to be seen in such a skimpy little thing without a bit of winter white skin gone...ick. Again, I'm pleased with this one too...the yarn colour was perfect for me, a sour apple kind of green...very summery and fresh looking. My gauge certainly needed some improvement on this one. I'm a perfectionist to a point, but it certainly doesn't show on this project. It's comfy and that's what counts right!?

Next in line is Tempting...I know I posting my leaning tower of wool in a previous entry so I won't bore you with that again. I'm making this a stripey top-in turquoise, pink and white...I already have some beautiful hand dyed silk ribbon as well. Can't wait for this baby to be finished. The wool is wonderful to work with (Zoinks! The label is downstairs, and I'm far to lazy to go and get it...I'll post this info when I'm done!)I love the pattern, although I'm a little pensive about the sleeve joining part...I'm sure I can recruit help when I need it!

In Noah news...we're down to the last few weeks of Montessori and looking forward to a fun summer. We introduced the little lad to camping last summer, he loved it...we didn't. My hubby is not what you would call a nature lover...this combined with Noah being a restless sleeper made for a very long and chilly night. We'll give 'er another try this year though. Our tent is wicked-a two room monstrosity. All we really need gear-wise is a good stove. We did a little day trip into New York state and had a peek in an outdoor store called Gander (I think?)-what an experience that was. I'll get into that in a bit.

Here's a recent photo of the little man enjoying some wild life! Courtesy of a reptile zoo nearby...

And here we are at our Mother's Day tea at school...

The quilt show that I was involved in at the beginning of the month was fantastic. Lots of work, but well worth it. We've been receiving loads of compliments, and criticism too...but overall, everyone seemed pleased. Here's just a sampling of some of the talent we have within our Guild.

Ok now...creativeness aside...I have a bit of a rant...please stop reading if you would prefer not to hear my ramblings! This little piece is a direct result of our recent visit to a Gander outdoor supply store in northern New York, Watertown to be specific.

I'm not what you would call a politically-minded person. I have a hard time grasping onto the strong feelings that some of my friends to the south have about their "fearless leaders". Don't get me wrong, I have deep seated emotions about what is right and what is wrong and feel that the powers that be need to take a serious look at issues such as child poverty, drug issues, medical care, etc. Basically anything that falls in the sphere of social welfare (domestic or international)-keep in mind I'm a bleeding heart social worker...'nuff said. Don't ask me if I vote...ask me why I choose not to.

A few years ago, my better half was working on a project that became, and continues to be, a gaping wound in many a Canadians eyes. He was merely a techie dude working behind the scenes to get this thing off the ground. When a social work prof asked what my husband did, I told him, and then I received a proper lashing. You see, dearest was working on a program that would track firearms in my country. The Gun Registry was doomed from day one...too much money spent, too many people refusing to register their guns, etc etc. There were threats, protests, for pete's sake, poop was sent in an envelope to someone working on this thing. Yes, we are a civilized bunch aren't we? I don't own a gun, I will never own a gun, and quite frankly, I'm not sure why anyone needs to have one...unless they are hunting for sustenance. This is my honest opinion. I had a high school friend accidently shoot himself while hunting for raccoons on his uncle's farm-he died, I have watched Bowling for Columbine-and shook my head in bewilderment, I have given many a hunter shit for crossing private property-property belonging to an social service agency which housed teenagers, I have debated with my husband's cousin (who's from Texas and was born with a gun in his hand)-but never was I more appalled than the day I walked into this sporting goods store.

People...we do not sell guns, gun paraphernalia, open boxes of ammunition, cross bows, arrows, etc. I am proud to be a Canadian. I am glad that my son will never walk into a local Canadian Tire store or Walmart or MEC and be greeting with the disturbing sight of five foot tall displays of bullets.

My feeling toward weapons, firearms or not, has obviously been affected by the simple fact that my brother is a police officer. I realize that he is put in harms way on every shift, he is on the tactical/explosives detonation unit as well. Not exactly a desk man if you know what I mean. I have had this discussion with him on many occasions...he tells me that without this registry, he and his colleagues would be put at risk. When he responds to a call, more often than not, he is made aware of any weapons that may be on the premises. He carries a firearm...a firearm he has been trained to use. A firearm he has yet to use. He can count on one hand the number of times he has drawn his gun...

This could very well be the most incoherent piece I have ever written in my life! But..it eases my mind to vent a bit. In the end, I think that I am far more critical of this world since the birth of my son. It pains me that he won't have the same simple childhood, full of fun and innocence, that his father and I enjoyed.

End of rant...

Below are a few photos I took when my brother participated in a police memorial on Parliament Hill here in Ottawa. What an amazing sight...just an absolute sea of police men and women. I have never been more proud of my brother...I am always proud of my country. Peace out....

Umm...I'm a delinquent...

2005-05-22T18:35:00.000-04:00

Yet again...mega long time between posts and, I don't have any photos...ugh.

In a nutshell...here's the scoop, with the promise of pics and more dirt to follow:

-Awesome quilt show! I'm glad it's over though. You never really realize how much work goes into these types of venues. Lots of fun, met lots of cool people, picked up way too much fabric, and certainly loads of inspiration...all I need is time to sit in front of the old singer!

-Gardening...and more gardening...I know I mentioned in a previous post that I'm insanely obsessed with my lawn. It's true. I had my hubby cart 10 big rolls of sod to the backyard to satisfy my need for a perfectly green lawn. Now, someday I will realize that this is impossible when there is a dog in the family who is aging and peeing far too often! Poor thing...and poor lawn!

-Knitting news...finished my Honeymoon cami...and I'm pleased. The colour is fun, the shaping is ok...and I gave up trying for a perfect garment long ago. There are a few stitches that look a bit wonky, but what the heck!

-Started Klaralund...I'm on sleeve island now. And I have learned a valuable lesson I think. I read the instructions and thought, heck, why can't I knit the front and back pieces as one on a circ. It looks fine, but then I realized that the stripey goodness of the Kureyon is indeed different on the sleeve than on the body part. The body stripes are much narrower than the sleeves...hello?!?!? Not too bright over here!! Oh well...I'm going to post a pic to get some consensus on whether I should frog it or not.

-Hubby's alpaca mix sweater is also coming along.

-Another friend is expecting...a boy! This is the first boy in our circle of friends besides my Noah...weird huh?

So...babies, quilting, gardening, mental mother-in-law, and hey...did I mention?!?!? My hubby has applied for a UN posting in Vienna...we're praying every second that he gets it...He has UN experience...worked in Kiev, Ukraine for 3 years, and I would love to go. Noah is at a perfect age for this type of travel/living experience as well. Every body part we can cross is crossed...cross whatever you can spare for us will ya??

Later gaters!

Long time gone....

2005-04-27T16:21:00.000-04:00

Wow...has it really been THAT long since I posted.

GULP!

I have no progress photos to show, since my knitting bag is in the mail. I took off for a quick visit with my folks last week, and left all of my WIP's there...ugh.

Reason for fleeing my home in near exile...my mother in law. Without getting into the ridiculousness of it all, I will tell you that I have decided to take a stand and protect my sanity from further destruction.

She has been the source of many arguements in my household, and in others as well, and I have decided to end it. She rarely sees my son, and recently we found out through the grapevine of senior citizens that populate our family, that she was coming to Montreal (a mere 2 hours away as opposed to the 6.5 hrs that we would have to drive to see her at her house) and she didn't tell us until the very last moment.

I was SO annoyed/hurt/etc. that I decided this was a perfect opportunity to pack up Noah and go spend some quality time with the grandparents who actually give a shit about him. This sounds so immature and callous..but....you would have to have a good stiff drink and at least a few days free before I could tell you what has transpired to lead me to act this way.

I have decided that I will not partake in any activities that involve her. I will not bend over backwards to impress her or make her happy anymore. This is something I need to do for my own well being.

Sigh...wish I had my knitting with me. Just think of the progress I could have made while under this stress...needles on fire, my friends.

On a happier note-I insisted that my dad take me to a FABULOUS little shop in London that I haven't been to. He ROCKS!!! I love my dad more than words could ever say...excuse while I gloat about my rockin' dad. I left the store wishing I had more money!!! But I did grab 10 skeins of lovely Noro for the Klaralund I've been planning since who knows when. Now...I must find my Cornelia Tuttle...where ever could she be???

I'm in the middle of chaos with the quilt show I'm helping to organize, and the Montessori school my son attends is on my "must get out of there" list.

Here's hoping this perpetual headache and feeling of inadequacy goes away soon. Maybe all of this rain we're getting will help with that.

Off to find some peace somewhere! Hahaha!!!

Photos of WIP's to follow!

Happy Friday....

2005-04-08T14:10:00.000-04:00

And a sunny one to boot! Such an awesome spring day here in Ottawa...looking forward to more days like this! This weekend looks like it's shaping up to be nice as well-now, don't get me wrong, it's not exactly beach weather, but certainly warm by Ottawa standards!

My yearly meltdown has begun.

I obsess over my lawn...I mean it, I obsess! I loose sleep thinking about the carnage that is waiting to appear once all of the snow is gone. One year I was greeting by a nasty case of grubs...ick. Another year, moles...cute little buggers, but can't they eat somewhere else. I've worked and worked to get our lawn to behave. Water and fertilize (organically of course) religiously, mow to a specified height, put weeds by hand, aerate, top dress, over seed, you name it.

Then, I sit back an wonder how my neighbours get away with NEVER watering and barely even mowing their lawn, not to mention no fertilizers, etc. WHAT THE HELL!?!?!?!? It's become a joke in our house (and probably many other houses as well). Maybe this will be the year I won't fret and stew...or maybe not. If my behaviour a few days ago is any indication of what will be this summer, I would say I am a long way away from curing this addiction I have for my lawn.

I was actually jealous that my neighbour (one of the ones that never waters, etc...his lawn literally looks like a dust bowl,and his weird mutant weeds are ALWAYS on my lawn!!!) had his lawn aerated before us.

I need help people.

Onto a happier topic...I've completed a few projects, and I must say, I'm pretty happy with these snazzy, and easy, bags. The yarn for both was pretty decent to work with, although, the Lopi was picky.

Here's a closeup of the weave on the trio bag...

I ended up using 7mm needles, since it was virtually impossible to find 8 mm dpn's! These are such awkward things to knit with. I definitely like my petite addi's.

And I've done a few more rows on the hubby's simple raglan as well....

This is a boring, no brainer knit and I'm not "into" the colour-I like it, but it's a fall-ish kind of knit. So, I decided to grab a few skeins of springy yarn for a few projects for me!

This is for my Honeymoon cami...I'm too impatient to wait for my Rowan to come in from The Knitting Garden, so that lovely stuff will be destined for another summer project. I did receive a couple of Rowan books though...I love Rowan...simple as that!

This is Baby Pima-80% pima cotton and 20% alpaca. I'm loving this shade of green lately...can you tell?

Here's my selection for Tempting, what do you think?

I loved these colours and thought, what the heck, lets try a stripey version...hopefully this will work out.

A very Tempting tower....

The new Spring Knitty is up! I love this, this, and this! Yikes! Good bye yarn budget!

Startitis has hit with a vengeance...Noah was kind enough to share yet another cold with us, so I think I'll wrap up with a cozy blanket, a cup o' tea and my yarn...will I start Tempting, Honeymoon???

Kiss my bunny ass!

2005-04-04T15:42:00.000-04:00

I had no idea I was a....

congratulations. you are the kiss my ass happy
bunny. You don't care about anyone or anything.
You must be so proud

which happy bunny are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Oh the quizes and things you do on the internet when you are trying to avoid ironing that humongous basket of clothes in the laundry room.

"Laundry...stop mocking me!!!!!!!"

Can we spell p-r-o-c-r-a-s-t-i-n-a-t-i-o-n?

2005-04-02T19:57:00.000-05:00

Hmmm...did I spell that right???

Long time no blog! Alas, too many "life" episodes have occurred!

Anyhoo...I've finished Noah's raglan sweater-it needs to have it's loose ends dealt with and also a decent blocking, the hem edge rolls a bit much for my liking. I immediately cast on and finished 15 inches or so of Dwayne's ragg sweater as well...but it's so pitifully boring to knit...K3 P1 can wear on a girl after awhile. I was literally falling asleep knitting it. Since it's a fall-ish sort of sweater I've decided it's ok to put it in the WIP basket for a bit and pick up some quickie little projects for moi. Exhibit A....

This is my first attempt at a Buttonhole Bag courtesy of this lovely lady. I used a purty little combo of yarn colours...orchid, green heather and a green apple shade, all Alafoss Lopi-picky as hell to knit with...but I like the effect.

I'm off to felt it now (also my first attempt!)....never have I EVER been excited of the prospect of laundry! WEEEEEE!!!

I think I'm on a bag making kick. I've had this yarn-

-hanging around for awhile. I've been waiting for the chance to make something for myself without feeling guilty. Too many times I've been lured into making sweaters and such for the little mite...but let's face it, I'm a sucker for projects that give instant gratification (read-quick to finish projects!)

I'm going to make this funky little basket/bag creation with the trio yarn...should be fun. I'm going to cast on tonight! The yarn is a funky combo of colours, not my usual taste, but, it's so fresh looking, very spring! It's also a weird texture-both are a 50/50 nylon/polyester mix with a ribbon effect..kind of neat...we'll see!

I'm patiently waiting for my order from The Knitting Garden...even with the exchange rate, shipping costs, duty, etc....I LOVE this little online shop. It's fun to shop in your jammies! So...what did I order you ask?

This lovely yarn in celery for my Honeymoon Cami, and a few books as well as a little Chibi! I just like the name...Chibi, Chibi, Chibi...hee hee hee...I'm easily amused I suppose!

So...lots o' new projects in the works. I only need a few more hours in the day!

Day Light Savings Time tomorrow...ick. I'm not fond of this time change for some reason. I like when we "fall back"-it's nice to have the feeling of getting an extra hour of sleep-however the early sunset isn't so nice. I love that the days seem so much longer in the spring/summer, but still feel like I'm getting jipped an hour of sleep for the first few days.

Ok..silly rambling over. Off to grab a cup o' tea from my wicked little Bodum tea pot-loose leaf only please! I didn't realize what I was missing out on until I met my tea pot at Christmas time. I *heart* my teapot!

BFN...

2005-03-25T09:22:00.000-05:00

A new KAL...I SO need this cami for the summer! LYS here I come! Ummm..tommorow...after the holiday!

Happy Easter!

2005-03-24T21:43:00.000-05:00

Looks like this weekend is shaping up to be a great one! The weather has been simply fantastic! We still have a big old wad of snow on our front lawn, but I was able to clean up the ick left behind by the snowplow, etc. Hurry up spring! I shouldn't complain, we've had a great winter...not too cold, not too much snow...but I'm sick of it already!

On to happier things...

I received a wonderful package in the mail today from the Netherlands! My Operation Haremail bunny buddy sent me a FABULOUS package! Thanks so much Marieke! There's a common theme in these photos-Noah. I could not keep him away from the Easter surprise!

Here's Noah contemplating shredding the beautiful wrap:

Look at this packaging...so springy!

A few of the pretty little felt bag...I just love it!

Looky at what's inside...tell me this bunny isn't to die for! How CUTE is this? Marieke, you are so talented...I just love him! I've decided to call him Frodo-he reminds me of Frodo Baggins from the Hobbit! Love him!!!!

And to top off this wonderful treat, Marieke also gifted me with some yummy chocolate eggs...delish!

Thank you so much for everything Marieke!

On the needles as we speak, and itching to come off is Noah's top down raglan sweater from the gals over at Cabin Fever

It's a size 4, and is most definately big on the little lad now, it will fit him fine by the fall though. I like this yarn-it's easy to knit with, although I'm questioning its potential "picky-ness". I'm using the same stuff, different colour, for Dwayne's sweater...he's "anti-picky" when it comes to yarn...we'll see how it goes!

I do love this pattern though...so easy and it was the first one to introduce me to working with dpn's (first attempt was made last year). There's absolutely NO seaming involved...it's literally done in one piece...sweet!

I'll close off with an annoying little ditty for Easter...hope the Bunny is good to you all.

I still haven't found what I'm looking for....

2005-03-19T17:22:00.000-05:00

UGH!

I hate when things don't go my way :P

I was pretty pumped up about U2 coming to Ottawa...so pumped up I convinved dearest hub that 95.00 for a ticket was VERY reasonable for a band of such calibre. I couldn't even access the server to capitaltickets.ca until 10:30 (tix went on sale at 10) and even then, I was just tossed into some que. So...I became desperate enough to look for tickets in Toronto in Sept. They have a number of shows there, so I figured I would have no prob. finding at least 2 little tickets. Nope...nada.

I'm so p.o.'d it isn't funny. I feel so incredibly dejected . I did a quick check on ebay...and felt the sudden urge to vomit. Here I am...a mom...a respectable citizen...now, I'm contemplating scalpers! Hee hee hee!!! Whatever floats your boat! The asking prices are heinous, as I suspected...Oh well..maybe another time! I must admit, I did catch them when they were in Toronto for their ZooTV tour (not my fave era for U2 music...but he concert was wicked!)

I will keep my chin up...and think of the Duran Duran concert which is creeping up, I'll finish Noah's sweater (which I frogged to the nines last week!) and I'll think of the Edge, and how he's going to miss me not being at his show in Ottawa! Hee!

Tommorow is the end of Noah's b-day celebration week...he'll have his little party at Gymboree with a bunch of his pals from Montessori. I just picked up some custom made cookies on a stick (fish!) and will spend the night cutting fruit, veggies and cheese! Super!

My boy is three....

2005-03-18T13:57:00.000-05:00

Unbelievable!

I have heard a million times "enjoy this time, they grow up so fast". I usually respond with the blank stare and mutter a "mhmmm" and wonder when the time will come that I will have something in my vocabulary other than "Noah...please don't do that", "Noah, leave the dog alone", "Noah, stop eating the snow....I don't care how tasty it is" and the ever popular "OH Noah....what did you do?"

Now don't get me wrong, I would kill for my little guy...I would fly to the moon and back to make him as happy as he makes me...but, there are these "days" that I wonder when my life will return to a somewhat normal state.

The day that Noah Thomas was born, three years ago today...was sheer bliss...and a relief. After an incredibly icky pregnancy that was full of worry and negative news, the little man was delivered without any complications.

The next few months were a mix of sheer delight and incredible exhaustion. Noah was an excellent baby...slept all the time...and woke with a smile. He ate well, but was very tiny. He was a mere 5 lbs 10 oz at his first weigh in after coming home. Sweet pea....

We vowed that we would take him everywhere with us and expose him to many different cultures, music, outdoor experiences, etc.

He is still a dream to travel with and is beyond curious. He loves Dim Sum (thank god!) and revels in wagon rides, shovelling snow, running, going down slides, etc. He loves to watch Daddy scuba dive ("Daddy is a "scooba diver".) and he loves talking to people.

Noah attends a local Montessori now and just this year has graduated into the Casa environment. He's excelling more than we ever imagined and he is now talking non-stop. Every word, every sentence, every "Be careful Mommy" makes us laugh. He's a ham.

Noah, you are three today. This is the first birth day you've had that you haven't been sick! Yeah for you! You are loved more than you can ever imagine. We cherich each moment we have with you and no matter how angry you think we may be with you, we will always listen to you and love you...foever. My wish for you is to grow up respecting yourself and others around you, to be compassionate, to make your own choices for your life's path, to be happy with who you are...I could go on and on.
Happy birthday buddy...may all of your wishes for jelly beans and Nemo treats come true.

Chocolate via Canada Post...yes please!

2005-03-11T15:08:00.000-05:00

Sweet!!! How cool is this exchange.....

Some people and their imaginations/creativity, just rock!

Yippee!

Have a great weekend!

Where's me cheese?

2005-03-08T15:02:00.000-05:00

Dwayne introduced me to Wallace and Gromit this past week. We rented two VHS (!!!) tapes from the local video store and have since downloaded (!!!) a few from the web. Now, I liked Chicken Run...but Wallace and Gromit rawk! Too funny...Of course, I had to do a quick google search to check out any patterns, knitting or otherwise, that may relate to good old Wallace et al, but found that they are hard to find! I'll keep an eye on ebay though...Feathers McGraw, Shaun the Sheep, Wendolyne...sigh...I miss the UK! Must.go.back.

In other news...my SP is the best! I received a lovely package last night from Newfoundland and couldn't wait to rip it open...lookie lookie...

Such an awesome collection of all of my faves! I've had a quick peek through the book...very cool projects. The seeds are going to be pre-potted soon...Nasturtium are THE best, and you can eat'em too! L-O-V-E the yarn! I was looking at a similar skein at my lys, and decided I needed to finish at least one more project BEFORE I bought anymore yarn or fabric. You'll also notice a whole bunch of gorgeous glass beads and two beautiful beaded bookmarks...I even received another string full of incredible glue glass beads, which Noah has claimed and has been counting them ever since! Can't wait to get using everything! Thanks again SP, you have spoiled me with a capital 'S'!!!

On the knitting front, I was plugging away quite quickly on Noah's little raglan when I realized that the neck/body seemed to be a might big...so...when I cast off the edge, and looked at it off the needles...then tried it on...myself...I realized there was no way in hell it would ever fit him. Indeed, it was a nightmarish thing to see...me, in a sweater that was meant for a 3 year old. Cropped tops are not in my wardrobe any more...so...it went to the swamp to be frogged. ACK! I figured out the prob...wrong sized addis....Oh Addi turbos, how could you deceive me?!?!?! So begins the second attempt at the raglan.

Have I mentioned that I'm a quilter? I belong to two local guilds (both of which have far too much political mess going on for my own comfort). Anyway...in an attempt to save an annual quilt show from becoming dust, I volunteered to be a member of the planning committee. So...I'm in charge of registering some 300 quilts between now and April 4th. What have I done??? It's been an interesting experience that I may or may not reconsider doing in the future. One would think that a group of quilters would be full of compassion and good will...not so. I have met a few loose screws and I am definitely disappointed in more than a few people whom I once had a bit of respect for. UGH. Isn't it a sad thing when a group of women (I'm not being sexist here...but this has been my experience lately) can't get along? Sad sad sad....

HAPPY HAPPY!!!! U2 is coming to Ottawa...RAWK ON! Now...the trick is to a) convince hubby he NEEDS to see U2 b) grab tickets before they're sold out...Way to go BOB FM and Prime Minister Martin...you RAWK!

Should run...piano lessons tonight....must practice so I can avoid having to do a solo again....

L8R

Ugh...It's Monday

2005-02-28T14:18:00.000-05:00

Ick...Noah is sick. I was sick last night, so today...I just feel..ick. Poor little man though-he's not sick very often, but when he is...watch out! We're talking delirium here! He's a wreck...fever, rash all over, the works. It seems to be moving into his throat/nose now...great. Needless to say, he's off from Montessori today and probably for the next few days as well. He's so lethargic and icky...poor little buddy.

Before the "ick" hit me, we all went for a jaunt to Gatineau for a jewelry open house for this lovely lady. My much better half gifted me with a gift cert. to her boutique and here are a few things I got...YAY!!! I love her stuff...very cool.

On the knitting front, I finished a pair of stripey socks...the colours make me laugh! And I was reeled into another warehouse sale at Wool Tyme (20% off all wool!!) and decided to make some "no-brainer" sweaters for hubby and Noah.

They're not quite matching...Noah's is a soft bluish-grey and Dwayne's is a charcoal colour...same wool though. Lovely, non-itchy (pre-requisite) mix of alpaca and wool. The pattern I'm using for Noah's is so easy and there's not a stitch of seaming to be done! Amazing and so quick to knit up. Check out Cabin Fever. This is the book I'm using.

I also received this in the mail last week. Heather sent me this fab Noro Silk Garden as a prize for guessing her fave band member from Duran Duran. Yippee! After reading about her success in grabbing tickets to a show, I decided to see if they had a Canadian leg on their tour...and they do! They're certainly not adding many cities to their venue, but Toronto and Montreal are there...so...I'm dragging my hubby to see the T.O. show in April! YAY! We'll be bringing little buddy along with us and will be setting ma and pa up in a super hotel room with him, so that we can go to the show! How sad is that??? We have to coax my parents to drive to Toronto (2 hours at the most) to look after Noah, while we traipse all around the ACC listening to tunes from a band I still have a crush on...sigh...I still love Roger and Simon...mmmmmmmmmmm.....

So..I went on a photo shoot rampage for this entry and when I couldn't find the camera cord anywhere, a call went out to the office to figure out where it was. Before this call, however, I made a vain attempt to find it on my own...this is what I found...EWWWWWWWWWWWW!!! What the hell possesses someone to acquire this amount of wire and dust??? ICK! I have been denied dusting access to the home office as I "move" stuff around and then "I can never find it". I won't show you the offensive piles of paper and "crap" that are lying around on every spare inch of the floor. Keep in mind, said better half states "some of your crap is in there too". Best move my magazine before I am permanently denied access to the office. Don't get me wrong...it's not a hygiene issue (yet) but I don't like wearing body armour to protect myself from the dust mites...

Off to check on the little germ...

Happy Valentines' Day One and All!

2005-02-14T14:16:00.001-05:00

My much better half has taken me on too many "delicious" adventures to count...my dream come true was a Christmas gift to London, Paris and Amsterdam (I know, I'm spoiled beyond belief) in May, 2003...Such an amazing trip...only a few photos of the two of us together....Thanks babe...I love you.

Tea for two at Raffles in London-May 2003.

2005-02-14T14:16:00.000-05:00

Paris 2003

Clickety click, Barba trick!

2005-02-09T16:07:00.000-05:00

Do you remember the Barbapapas? Sigh...a 1970's childhood was a good thing!

You are Barbatine! You are well-read and love to
learn. You were gloomy in your youth and found
nothing you liked to taste, but you're older now,
and have an incisive sense of humour that
makes you and others smile.

Which Barbapapa Personality Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

Prematurely grey....

2005-02-09T14:45:00.000-05:00

My son is causing me to become prematurely grey. Thus creating HUGE salon bills when I go here to get my hair dyed. Actually...I've been grey since high school...salt and pepper just isn't cool when you're an 18 year old...so I've been a slave to the chemicals since. My mom and dad have been blue-hairs for as long as I can remember...but it suits them, no?

Back to Noah...everyone warns you about the terrible twos (sometimes calledthe terrific twos by people who obviously don't have children). Anyway-Noah will be three in March and refuses to remove himself from the terrible two's phase which unexpectedly began when he was closer to one. He is truly a delight, loads of fun and the love that we have for him is so immense that they haven't yet created a word in the dictionary to describe it. He is our life...but...must he wreak havoc in every room of our house??

The usual target is the refrigerator...which is unfortunate as I have now lost count of the number of eggs that have been thrown on the floor followed by a gleeful "oooooooo" and then a sombre "sorry mommy...Noah, get a cloth...tidy up...tidy up..." To make matters far more complicated, we have an equally sweet dog who is just plain dumb...god love her...but she is dumber than a bag of hammers. So...there they are...Noah, a dozen smashed eggs and Einstein...all traipsing about, trying to figure out a way to avoid being caught by the tyrant they can Mommy. Ugh!! These are the days that are so cheekily explained in the What to Expect When...series of books.

Check this out. Neat concept.

Loving this song right now

It's 2:53 pm and all is quiet...a hear a pot of tea calling me not to mention a stew that should have been put in the oven ages ago! Martha, I am not!

2005-02-07T15:25:00.001-05:00

What a banner day for mail today! Not one bill!!! Hooray for me! I did receive my American (I know...I'm purely Canadian...but this kit was cool!) Red Cross Knit Kit...Perfect timing too...just a mere day after I conquered my first sock pattern! Click here to see what's inside!

2005-02-07T15:23:00.000-05:00

OH MY GOD....my first finished sock...after a million attempts...I GOT it! The only thing is...I'm not happy with it! It fits great, the wool is great...I'm not happy with my Kitchener stitch seam or the cuff. So...off I go to knit another one! Yippee!!

2005-02-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

Red Scarf project update photos...Here are 3 of my contributions. Looking horribly unblocked I might add! The middle one is not quite RED...but it was such a beautiful colour combo I couldn't resist! They were mailed out today!

2005-02-07T15:20:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry Einstein....so, so sorry....

2005-02-07T15:20:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when you leave an almost 3 year old, an aging dog and an open pantry with a full box of cornstarch in it, alone while you run to take a pee....

I've been RAOK'D!!!

2005-02-07T15:17:00.000-05:00

Does it get any better than this? I've been RAOK'd by the lovely Becca. She's also a member of the Hello Kitty knit along and sent me a sweet Hello Kitty stationary set as well as post it's, stickers and a lovely little note! Thanks so much Becca!

An RAOK from Becca!

Amazon wish list

2005-02-03T16:53:00.000-05:00

This list is more to remind myself of the great books that I'd like to add to my library...but if any one else is interested...

There are also alot of non-knitting related books-my tastes run to the morbid side at times. I have a bit of a hankering for Patricia Cornwell stuff now...great, great reads!

If you scroll down the side bar, you'll see a pic of an old woman's hands resting on a book...the image is a bit dark, I'm trying to fix that...that's the link to my wish list!

Sunny daze...

2005-01-31T14:16:00.000-05:00

What a great weekend we had. Lots of knitting time (not sure how that happened!) and we were able to grab dim sum on Saturday and then head out for a skate on the Rideau canal on Sunday. Noah is a Dim Sum fiend and seems to know when we're in the vicinity of our local China town. We're raising a fine eater!

The wind chill seems to be dying down so we were able to skate for about an hour or so on Sunday. This was Noah's first attempt with bob skates--he was cool with it for about 15 minutes or so and then the excitement just fizzled. Dwayne grabbed a cool little sleigh and we were able to glide along with Noah sitting in the sleigh. I grabbed the regular camera instead of the digital...so no photos to spare.

My mom and dad just called. They've been in Fort Myers for a month and plan on staying in the Clearwater area for a few nights now. Even though we're lucky if we see them every 2-3 months, I've missed them terribly. It's always a relief to know that they're safe and at home...silly me.

I should run and get something accomplished today...I've finished up two scarves for the Red Scarf Project and hope to finish one more tonight so that they can be in the mail tommorow.

Later....

2005-01-31T14:15:00.000-05:00

A little bleached out...This is the London Beanie I made for my partner in crime..he REFUSES to wear anything "picky". This one is made with black and grey alpaca...so slick to knit with.

2005-01-28T15:20:00.000-05:00

Close up...Super easy knit..I hope to be done this weekend and have it ready to send out!

2005-01-28T15:19:00.000-05:00

Red Scarf project...Mohair and Poco...YUM!

The Red Scarf Project

2005-01-28T11:12:00.000-05:00

2005-01-28T10:18:00.000-05:00

What Children's Book are you???

I am one of my son's favourites!

Goodnight Moon

Which children's book are you?
brought to you by

Secret Pals 4 quizorama!

2005-01-27T15:18:00.000-05:00

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer high- a nd/natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?

I am becoming a yarn snob

2. Do you spin? Nope...Crochet? A bit.

3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)..no!!!

4. How long have you been knitting? On and off for 20 years or so.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Making one up as we speak!

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) Vanilla!!! Yum!!!

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Oh dear lord...YES!!!!!!!!!!

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Quilting, some bead work.

9. What kind of music do you like? Anything really...especially fond of the 80's!

Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Yup.

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer?
I like natural colours...green, blue, ivory....and black!

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? Married to an awesome guy, we have one son (3 in March), a dog, and a Guinea Pig.

12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know) -to be happy and healthy.

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? Right now....Debbie Bliss anything!

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I'm not that much of a snob yet!

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s? Sweaters for Noah, accessories for me!

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Top down sweaters for kids.

17. What are you knitting right now? Why...a top down sweater for Noah!

18. What do you think about ponchos? They weren't cool in the 70's and they certainly aren't now...ick...

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? both equally...really LOVE my addi turbos!!!

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Bamboo and Addi turbos!

21. Are you a sock knitter? Trying to be...

22. How did you learn to knit? Self taught...mother-in-law critiqued.

23. How old is your oldest UFO? Too ashamed to admit!

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird? I love turtles and monkeys.

25. What is your favorite holiday? Umm...hard one...I like them all equally I guess.

26. Is there anything that you collect? antique salt sellars, books, Willow Tree angels,Jim Shore santas, fabric, yarn, needles!

2005-01-19T16:04:00.000-05:00

A fun little list from Vanity Fair and here:

Shampoo--Salon stuff that is far too expensive, but won't strip the million dollar dye job!
Moisturizer--Clinique
Cologne--Dolce and Gabbana Blue
Razor--Venus
Toothpaste--Colgate cinnamon whitening
Electronics
Cell phone--don't know...hubbie's hand me down.
Computer--one of the four in our house...ask the resident DBA
Television--a delish toshiba...large! YIPEE!!!
Stereo--ummm...some Sony collaboration that was my better half's.
Home
Sheets--which ever ones we get as Christmas gifts!
Coffee-maker--DeLonghi espresso maker...mmmm...lattes!
Car--Pontiac Grand Prix
Stationery--Email
Beverages
Bottled water--PC brand...two on the go at all times.
Coffee--anything snobby and decaf
Vodka--Not in a long long time...bad vodka bad!
Beer--draft ale...anything similar to Keiths'...but draft
Clothes
Jeans--AE or Gap
T-shirt--whatever freebies software companies send my husband and this one.
Briefcase or tote--backpack baby!
Sneakers--Asics or nikes
Watch--a delicious Gucci...wedding gift from the hub.
Favorite Places
Home, in bed with flannel sheets and my boys, Paris, London, St. Lucia
Necessary Extravagance
Good skin care stuff, yarn, fabric, books!

"Use the force Luke!"

2005-01-16T07:04:00.000-05:00

This is bloody funny....and yet such a warm reminder of my youth too!

2005-01-14T15:29:00.000-05:00

A belated happy woof year from Einstein xo

All in the name of vanity....

2005-01-14T14:21:00.000-05:00

I did it. I decided to change the background template on my blog..."just to see". Just to see that all of my buttons, links, etc, are gone...gone...gone! UGH!

There's a reason why I am a social worker and not a techie! I can handle just about anything that a person may throw my way (including various pieces of furniture). I cannot, however, handle the computer telling me that all of my settings are gone...and yes, I did receive that infamous "are you sure" warning.

It's another nice day here in Ottawa, a bit chillier than yesterday's balmy 11 degrees. The canal is temporarily closed due to the thaw, which sucks, since I was hoping to watch Noah experience his first year on skates (bobskates no less!) this weekend. There's still plenty of time! Winterlude will be here in no time...too much fun!

I am working on a firetruck sweater kit for the little man as we speak. Please don't throw fruit at me...it is a kit from Mary Maxim (cringe) and it is all acrylic. Those of you who have 2 year old boys will understand my moment of weakness. It is very cute, and completely indestructible!For now, the fancy pants wool is for me!

Noah is sleeping and I'm very tempted to crawl into bed with him, he's all warm and cozy and content...mmmmmmm.

A quick thought...what would you do if you were approached by a homeless (I'm assuming...forgive me) person on the street who was wielding a monkey wrench (no, I'm not kidding) and asking for the time and a cigarette. Me...I gave him the time, told him I quit long ago, bid him a good day, and walked away wondering...what the hell does one do with a monkey wrench. (Ed. note: my better half confirmed the proper name of this tool as I kept calling it a plumber's wrench). I meet the most interesting people on the most mundane of days....

J

2005-01-11T14:09:00.001-05:00

A very fine RAOK!!!!

2005-01-11T14:09:00.000-05:00

Yummy yarn cards from Brenda!

RAOK at its finest!

2005-01-11T13:54:00.000-05:00

Yippee!!!! I've been RAOK'd for the very first time! I have a crummy line up of medical appointments today...so it was THE BEST DAY to receive such a beautiful gift! Brenda (http://brenda.typepad.com/(closetomyheart) sent me FABULOUS note cards made from photos taken with her digital camera...I'm in the process of posting them...

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

I love this....I'm grinning from ear to ear!

It's been awhile since I last posted...what has happened?!?! Somedays I just surf so many interesting blogs that I forget about my own. Resolution....to keep more up to date with my own space!

I have decided, after many years, to finally take piano lessons. I envy those with musical talent. My husband picks away at his guitar a few times a week and has attempted to teach me as well. My stubby little fingers and stubby little attention span made it a bit difficult to pick up any more than one chord. Sooooo...I've signed up for piano lessons at a local music store and this past weekend went out and bought a Yamaha portable grand! It's a lovely little piece with tons of buttons to fiddle with. Noah loves it of course. I'm hoping to enroll him in the Yamaha preschool classes this summer.

I should run...off to the next appointment. I truly dread days like this...I was thinking it would be better to have all of my appointments on one day to "get it over with"...but it's such a drag!

I do have my very first knit night (stitch and bitch I suppose!) in Ottawa at a local coffee shop...I'm looking forward to meeting up with everyone!

Thanks so much Brenda for making my day!!!

J

2004-12-19T14:11:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from Noah...HoHoHo!

2004-12-19T14:10:00.000-05:00

How sweet are these??? I ordered them from www.camillavalleyfarm.com. Here's the story behind the needles-The story behind these handpainted birch knitting needles is a study in international cooperation.
Vadim and Galina Sharikov live in a three room Moscow apartment where they have converted their 6' x 12' sun porch into a small factory where they manufacture and paint wooden knitting needles and buttons. They have been working with Peace Fleece over 12 years, have designed and built their own machinery and are artists in everything they do. The needles, sold in attractive paper sheaths, are milled in Maine and then are finished and painted in Moscow.
Neat....

2004-12-19T14:07:00.000-05:00

A quick scarf for myself that ended up becomign a prototype for one for my mom. Knit in a simple k4 p4 rib with Pearl by Estelle in a lovely periwinkle colour way...it's furry goodness!

2004-12-19T14:05:00.000-05:00

Another pattern from Zoe Mellor's book...LOVE THESE!!! I'm godmother to twin girls, Megan and Laura...and think this just may be a last minute Christmas project...I still have time, right?!?!?!

2004-12-19T14:04:00.000-05:00

Back and 1/4 of the front of the pirate sweater for Noah...the arms look like a nice project while on holidays!

2004-12-19T14:03:00.000-05:00

The pirate sweater from Zoe Mellor's book Adorable Knits for Tots...

2004-12-19T14:02:00.000-05:00

First pair of thrummed mittens for Noah. Briggs and Little Regal yarn-1 skein, Navy. Briggs and Little white roving. Love it!!!!

2004-12-19T14:01:00.000-05:00

Bon soir mes amis! LOVE this photo of our little man! The beret is from our trip to Paris last year...sigh...

How many more days....

2004-12-19T13:23:00.000-05:00

I think now is the time when I should explain how much I do not enjoy the holiday season. Before someone throws a huge yellow snow ball with an ice chunk in it, at my head...Here's why...

I have a truly dysfunctional family (doesn't everyone?) that only operates on two levels-angry at someone, or trying to figure out a way to be angry at someone. We fight, passionately. But I have finally thrown in the towel and prefer to just be left alone. Sad? Yes. Necessary? Is the pope Catholic?

To add to this family bliss, I married a great guy who's family appears perfectly normal on the outside...It just explodes in your face when you marry into it. UGH! My boy is the middle of three sons...his dad passed away just before we met (which is a total bummer for more reasons than one). His mom lives in this fabulous world that my husband refers to as her "bubble"-where all of her sons and their wives get along with one another. Ahem...right....

Anyhoo...we live a decent 7 hours away from both families which is a blessing in disguise. And at times, really not far enough away...catch me?

So...since we've been married our visits to the "motherland" (a small town outside of London) have become fewer and less lengthy. We have a fantastic excuse each time..."Sorry, DK has to work...no way out of it" or "Yikes...I think Noah is coming down with something."

Long story short-even though we're only going to be away from our home for two nights (yep...it is necessary to spend equal nights at each mothers' home for fear of hearing complaints about the differences in time spent at each home...Next year we'll be far more aware of the hours spent at each place), it will truly be an agonizing experience for us both. Noah, god love him, is totally oblivious to the shit that is thrown around him.

Oh the stuff we do for our kids....I can hardly wait until he's a teenager and we can use him as an excuse for not going to visit the folks!

Grinchiness aside...I do love Christmas Eve for some reason...always have...So I am looking forward to that..

I've finished Noah's thrummed mittens...my first attempt-I'm fairly pleased with them and miraculously they stay on his hands for longer than a minute! Looks like I'll be churning a few more of these babies out over the holidays!

Happy holidays to all ( I truly mean that!)...I'm sure a few more posts will be in order over the next week or so!

J

Snow....Finally!

2004-11-24T16:26:00.000-05:00

I'm sure that I'll be sorry that I said that! As anyone knows...Ottawa is icky in the winter, especially in January! It's bloody cold and there's always a ton of snow. Anyway, it is the end of November and I was wishing it would just snow and get it over with...And here it is!

My big brother is in town right now. He's police officer in another city and would give me a speeding ticket if he ever caught me...Nice. He's here on course for the bomb disposal unit that he's on with his force. So he's taking a 4 week training course on electronics...ick. Right up my hubby's alley though! We're hoping to get together this weekend for dinner and a chat...I haven't seen him since March-so it's long overdue. My little man, Noah, will be in his glory as well...He seems to love company.

Not much of a post. On the knitting front--I've started a sweater for Noah from Zoe Mellor's book (the name is totally lost in my brain somewhere!)..it's pretty cool though...very "piratey". I'll post photos soon!

Off to do some damage control...do you have any idea what kind of destruction a 2 1/2 year old boy and his dog can cause in a mere few minutes...I'll show you someday!~

Tootles!

2004-11-18T19:24:00.000-05:00

The evil eye!!! Actually...it's just Einie peering at me through the ever present child safety gate. It has become a piece of exercise equipment for us...lots of hurdling over it to get from room to room!

2004-11-18T19:22:00.000-05:00

Another yummy find at the Inspirations show in Ottawa...Manos del Uruguay handcrafted kettle dyed wool..the colour is delish,no?

2004-11-18T19:17:00.000-05:00

Oh Koigu Kersti...how do I love thee??? Let me count the credt card receipts to see! A neat little colourway that I picked up at the Inspirations Needlework Show in Ottawa! YIPPEE!!!

2004-11-18T19:16:00.000-05:00

Little bits to whip up a lightweight raglan for my little man.

2004-11-18T19:03:00.000-05:00

This little baby just needs to be tidied up a bit and will be shipped off to my newest little friend "Cameron". My dearest pal Leann delivered this strapping young lad 2 weeks ago...gulp...and I'm just finishing now! Better late than never..right? This is a top down raglan from the Cabin Fever Book (two sisters from Orillia...I"ll attach a link later!) I had a few odds and ends of Sirdar DK yarn and used it up! It's super soft and lightweight...very cute I think!

2004-11-18T07:01:00.000-05:00

A little walk down memory lane...here's our little boebee(who's not so little anymore)...Einstein! I know...what a name! DH named her before I was around...it suits her well though...in her prime she was quite bright...now...well, now she just walks into walls!

2004-11-18T06:59:00.000-05:00

Says it all really!!! When you're not that talented....call yourself an adventurer to disguise that!

No Seams baby!!!!

2004-11-17T07:48:00.000-05:00

I finished it....a sweater without seams! Now to explain why I'm so excited....I used to HATE circular needles (I know, I know) until I went to the Inspirations Needlework show in Ottawa. I stopped to peek at a book by Cabin Fever-mostly top down raglans for toddlers. I was able to chat with the authors (the Gemmell sisters) and they shed some light on my distaste for circs. I promptly bought the book (easy easy patterns!) and then spent a zillion dollars on a few sizes of Addi Turbos...OH MY!!!!! Bettter than chocolate I tell ya! I was able to whip up a size 1 sweater in a few days! Not only did I use circs successfully, but I also taught myself how to use dpn's!!! How 'bout that?!?!? Anyway...if I could find the camera that is hidden in our disastrous office I'd show you the final piece...alas it must wait as it is far too early in the morning to wake up the hubby who is blissfully unaware that yet again....I cannot sleep.

I'm a bit ashamed to say that this blogging thing is taking off so slowly for me..I've already committed a faux pas...yikes. I will be posting link (using my own bandwidth!!!) Sheesh...I'm a social worker for a reason! No need to EVER use a computer in this field!!!

Anyhoo...off to forage for the camera!

2004-11-14T20:22:00.000-05:00

Inspiration galore!

2004-11-14T20:21:00.000-05:00

Yummy colours...On their way to mitten land!

2004-11-14T20:20:00.000-05:00

Noah's first sweater...my first graph work

Yet another day of playing...

2004-11-14T20:08:00.000-05:00

Thank God for DH who is a computer god...I had no idea how do-diddily-dumb I am when it comes to the whole "code" thing. He's the brains in this operation that's for sure...just ironing out a few things to add buttons, webring links, fave blog links as well as pictures of my latest conquests in the world of yarn and sticks...more to come.

Welcome to my blog world....

2004-10-19T18:52:00.000-04:00

Hey....another afternoon spent trying to look like I know what I'm doing with this whole blog thing...Just where is my techie better half when I need him???Humpf!

Bear with me...this is only an intro...much better stuff to follow...along with pics and such!