frogslake

Shower done!

2012-01-31T15:43:00.000-08:00

I got to take the new tub/shower for a "wet" run. Meaning I took my first BATH in probably 20 years. So nice and CLEAN. The new hardware works wonderful. Foot friendly. Can turn it on and off with a toe..lol. The handrail is a new idea for us and it was very useful. Had to finish quick because Jerico will be home tomorrow and the shower rod should "MAYBE" beat him by a few hours.

Next is the rest of the walls and plumbing. The old plumbing is a rusty nightmare. It will be wonderful.
Thanks Bill!!!

Flamingo Mitts for Laurie

2012-01-31T15:38:00.000-08:00

My niece has a thing for Flamingos like I have a thing for frogs. I have them out blocking. I can see I need to shift one of the thumbs. I actually put the thumb in the same spot but made it so you could wear them on either hand. I like the colors finally. Tore them out 3 times. First to change the pink and second because they were to small/tight. Hopefully these work and Floyd (her plastic flamingo) will approve and allow her to wear them!!!

Another day Snowing

2012-01-17T15:17:00.000-08:00


Tuesday-backyard

Lots of knitting happening. On my 3rd go 'round on the flamingo mitts. One nearly finished, #2 about half way. Ya, I know I usually knit both at once but I didn't have long enough needles.

Also, making a potato chip scarf. Out of a Noro looking acrylic in hot pinks to purple. I usually only work on it at "Church of the holy stitch" meetings cuz I can't gab and knit at the same time.

Yes, I am enjoying the snow...hanging out in my PJs. So far, we still have power and I did manage to go grocery shopping yesterday so....we're good.

Wednesday-kitchen roof

Nighmares

2012-01-17T15:13:00.001-08:00

Looks like my cat (Dark) Crystal. But she would never do such a thing.....knock on wood!!!
From- Canihascheeseburger.com

SNOW

2012-01-15T07:39:00.001-08:00

I get all giggly when it snows!! Till I have to go somewhere in the car.....lol

December- Seaview Weavers guild

2012-01-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

Made Facinators. Much fun!!

Bills latest Project.

2012-01-07T05:53:00.000-08:00

New plumbing and new tub surround in the works. Quick before Jerico get home from work. He should be home in 3 weeks. Hard to believe how clogged the old plumbing was. Its a wonder we had any water flow at all.

Pyrography....woods a fiber?

2012-01-03T04:46:00.000-08:00

I asked for a wood burning set for my Birthday. These are 2 of the ornaments that Bill made on his lathe and I decorated. One now belonging to my friend Pearl, who got it in an ornament exchange.

I've also done a few boxes and several bracelets that Bill made. Lots of fun! I can see that I'm going to have to clear my old pottery studio out do this in. Not the best smell for "in the house".

On knitting. Working on Jerico's sweater, Laurie's mitts and a potato chip scarf. Pictures when I finish the scarf.

Church of the Holy Stitch

2011-12-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas party for the "Church of the Holy Stitch" held at Blanche's beautiful house over looking Lake Washington.

Left to right.(standing)...Sheila, Cindy, Sandra, Kari, Jennifer, Blanche, Christina, Jeannie, Katie, Elsa, Valerie
(sitting) l-r...Pearl, Linda, Anna Maria, Annie(me)

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-09T11:03:00.001-08:00

Shopping DONE...Thanks again, Amazon. Just need a tree and I'm happy.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-23T06:30:00.001-08:00

Shopping.......done! Fruitcake made! Husband smoking the turkey in the smoker(starting in the morning).... check. Cleaning....almost done. I may actually live threw this one without bursting into tears.

I'm an overachiever..I try WAY to hard to do everything myself. This year Bill is retired ,so, I must delegate. I did make the fruitcakes(4, 1 for Thanksgiving and 1 for people to take home) but Bill helped with the heavy stuff, mixing and holding the bowl while pouring. I BOUGHT the pies. That was really hard. I'm still feeling guilty about that. And, Bill is helping me do the yearly cleaning. I bet he didn't even know I cleaned all the light covers every thanksgiving..lol. But, this is the most kitchen cleaning I do every YEAR. Its gotta last till after the Christmas buffet. Now there is where I got smart. The Christmas buffet consists of Wiener wraps (cresent rolls with cheese and half a hot dog), pizza rolls, chips and a cookie plate (bought, usually). Last year I made a mock plum pudding and Marshall and I ate most of it. So, not doing that this year. Just keep it simple. No big Christmas dinner.......just heat stuff up. Mostly, by that time we're done with all the presents and crazyness, all I want is a nap, anyway!

Bill, every year, teases me that we should just have Turkey tacos and call it good. One day.....maybe. At least I don't hand make all the crackers, cookies and pies. Yes, you can make crackers from scratch! Cheese straws were my favorite.

Anne McCaffrey 1926-2011

2011-11-23T06:18:00.001-08:00

Anne McCaffrey......most favorite of my favorites........
I know, I'm not surprised. She was only 5 years younger then my mom whos been gone for over 20 years. It was just about a week ago I wondered if she was still alive. Sometimes, I'm surprised that I'm still plugged into the Cosmos . I thought I'd lost that connection. But, I'm gonna cry. She was/is my favorite author. I own every book she ever published..even the romances and recipe book. I was extremely lucky to have had a short email relationship with the 'Dragonlady'.. Ya I'm gonna cry!

I was so shocked when I first heard. Its going to take me awhile to process this.....Love you Anne. I'm going to have to re-read all her books. ONE more time. What a loss.

Happy Birthday to me....# I forget

2011-11-06T11:17:00.000-08:00

The Balloon Billy got me!

Diana's Scarf

2011-10-29T16:02:00.000-07:00

Scarf made for Diana..... Pattern from Ravelry called The Mountain Eyelet scarf
Next are Mittens for Laurie with pink flamingos. That look something like this...

except light green background. Pictures when I get them done. Hopefully by Christmas.

Love the sweater!!

2011-10-11T14:25:00.001-07:00

Sheep of the week...

2011-10-02T19:34:00.001-07:00

Roarin

2011-09-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Roarin' (from Ravelry) #2 in purple tweed cascade 220. Kinda lost the tweedness and for some reason its longer threw the crown but I still like it. Still working on the embroidery. I used flower beads here and there and when I find my leaf beads I will use them as well. Don't want to make it to heavy but I'm having fun. Oh, and hanging from the pink flower is a little frog trinket. Love frogs!!

Patsy hat

2011-09-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hat #3 is Patsy from Ravelry. Think I have enough hats now. Notice the pink hair!

Art Yarn

2011-09-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

One finished hat

2011-09-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Cascade 220....one done with 2 more in the works. Like it?

Project

2011-09-01T17:31:00.000-07:00

I was looking at the background hats on Victorian trading companies site. But none of them were the right color so someone suggested, "Make it, Silly!!" Well, duh.....so heres the pattern I found and 3 of my inspirations. I'm more then half done with the knitted cloche in Gray.

Knitting content...at last..lol

2011-08-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

I'm working on a sweater for Jerico. The Pirate King.. tee hee. Who loves all things pirate except the real deal..of course. Pattern is called: Skullflake and can be found on Ravelry.
Jerico picked an off white and Fatigue green. I'm up both arms to the lower part of the skulls.
I am also working on a vest for Terri Shea. She is planning on selling patterns online. So, I can't show you the design. Besides the fact ..she hasn't given me the pattern.....or even written it yet. I am to the armpits of the back with no direction to go so am working on skullflake. Nag nag Terri. Not that she ever reads my blog :P

Front yard re-design

2011-08-24T13:02:00.001-07:00

Not knitting but its what We've been doing. Jerico, Bill and I removed the Iris garden.....gone. Grass instead and a planter box that doesn't wreck my back. Cleared other weed haven and planted the removed Iris'. New path of brick. Concrete pavers have gone to the backdoor. Also, with new grass which is being difficult and growing patchy. Truely loving my front yard!! At last!

Another Pretty

2011-08-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Wyatt and Marshall out riding. They're having so much fun with their mountain bikes. Just had to share!

Pretty pretty

2011-08-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

Love this picture of my boys, Jerico and Marshall. Taken a couple days before Jerico headed to Guam for work.

Ren faire 2011

2011-08-11T04:37:00.000-07:00

Blanche,Valerie and I had a lovely time at the SCA ren faire in Bonney lake. We managed to go around the circuit ONCE because the faire was so HUGE.

I think I slept or spaced for 2 days afterwards. Amazingly, I didn't hurt more then usual. AND, I got to wear the dress I bought 12 yrs. ago when Marshall and I last went to a ren faire.

Thanks for the invite Valerie.....and thanks to Glenn for Driving!!

Life and Times

2011-06-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry for no posts lately. I've been very busy with many things. I've pulled out all the half done projects and am slowly working on them.

Terri Shea gave me a vest to work on.....gotta pick that up and work on it....Eeek

Had a Heart scare that, according to the cardiologist "Is perfectly normal" Bulls**t but ok! I'm trying to let that go. All that happened because I was weaning myself off my hormones. I didn't do it quickly. Took several months but I am told some people, namely me, can't do that. She didn't do it but I could see it in my dr. eyes that she wanted to smack me upside the head. sigh

Made a few things for a friend who is having a baby in 2 months. I haven't given them to her yet so won't mention it here. Not that she or anyone else reads this drivel.

Getting used to having my husband around. Found I couldn't sleep a normal schedule like normal people. I still have to get up in the middle of the night for 2 hours. Oh well, quiet time to play my latest fav video game "Rift". I'm on Seastone shard (server) as Pixxi if anyone plays?

Also, doing a ton of gardening and outdoor projects. Moved alot of the garden around with more moving as soon as things finish blooming.

Bill is building a new walkway out the back door to my pottery studio. Guess I'll have to clean it and get back to work soon. mmmm, Wonder if I can store yarn out there? Joking...kinda

Reading a new author..to me. John Scalzi . It all started with a remake of "The Fuzzy papers" he called, "Fuzzy Nation",that he wrote better than the original. I was hooked and have read.. "Old mans war", "The Ghost Brigades", "The Last Colony" and have just started "Zoe's Tale". Also, "Your hate mail will be graded" never laughed so hard.

The Pink Dress of Miss Jayda

2011-04-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

Finally finished Jayda's Pink dress. Only picture we could get of her NOT making some kind of face! She's such a clown.
I hope she loves it. Its certainly large enough to wear for many years. If not as a dress then as a sweater..lol. Its pretty wide! I'm glad she liked it!!! whew!

Thoughts

2011-03-21T13:34:00.001-07:00

Busy busy month. Not all in a good way either. I won't state the obvious...the picture kinda does that. I can't stop watching NHK international.

Nearly done with Jayda's pretty dress..pictures when its totally done. I made a mistake in the beginning. It said to do x rows knit then one purled to make a easy turn over hem. Which I totally missed. SO (sigh), when I finished the skirt and bodice, I carefully cut off several rows along the bottom and knit down to make a scolloped hem. Imagine my relief when it turned out beautiful. Really the only thing left is about half the sleeves and sewing on the buttons. I sure hope she loves it!

Another wrinkle in this month, on the good side (depending on how you look at it) is that Jerico got called to go back to work!!! Finally! After all the rain, snow and freezing weather he gets to work in........M A U I life is hard. Its only for a month but......wow. Also on the good side, I get to dig around in my (his) room and get all my projects to an area where I can get at them. While I was doing that I found his old Passport (under a stack of bags of roving). We thought it had been stolen...YEAH!!

AND, I found all the pink roving I had been seaching for!! And, all my spindles so I can spin small amounts to make my dragon (pictured below) in shades of Purple and teal and a smidgeon of Fushia. At least thats the plan. Happy Dance.

But......I miss Jerico and his unshaven kisses to my cheek...outa no where. I miss the crazy stories punctuated with F.......ing this and that. :) I know he's a grown up and needs his own place again. But for now.....I'm just missing him. Sniff

Norwegian Knitting Designs... FINALLY!

2011-03-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

ITS DONE!! Please check out and buy this book HERE
Redone by my friend, Terri Shea. I knit a couple examples as did my friend, Katie Scott.

Retirement projects

2011-02-10T14:50:00.000-08:00

Before:

Its a project for sure. Bill has been working for 3 months and he finished the last cuts today! Now he will stain all the woods. Only took 30 years to finish.. of course the rest of the room is a disaster..Picture 3..Hee hee

After:

Its really alot neater then when we started! We don't call it the Wreckroom for nuthin'!!

Ready to stain. Pretty huh?

AND.......Stained!

Instead of a moose head...its a dragon!

New Pattern

2011-01-31T06:59:00.000-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62534686/cosmo-the-dragon-pattern
http://aprildraven.blogspot.com/

Anyone who really KNOWS me, Knows I love Dragons! Saw this on Facebook and had to have the pattern! Also, got an adoreable frog that has possibilities as my new header picture. Just need to make it and find or make the tutu and ballet slippers. I've been thinking 'Build a Bear' might be a good place to get these already made.

I have some fabulous roving that in purples and tourqoise and fushia that might look really good as this dragon? If you look at the links you'll see She is very LARGE. 25in long....I'm in love

And on a family note: This is Jerico's 1 yr Sobriety Celebration! We are very proud!

Labyrinthitis

2011-01-14T12:23:00.000-08:00

Definition: The inner ear has fluid-filled tubes called semicircular canals, or labyrinths. The canals, along with a nerve in your skull, help interpret your body's position and maintain your balance.

I had a virus just after Thanksgiving. The usual thing with stomach etc. But, it had some dizziness associated with it too but it went away quickly. Ever since I've felt off. Not dizzy but, well, off.

Wed. woke up with vertigo.. not spinning..just kinda drifting feeling. OMG I'm having a stroke I thought.. but it went away. Thurs. woke up..MUCH worse. Emergency room FAST!! 6 Hours later and a CT scan and MRI (OMG never wanna do that again!!) they decided I had Labyrinthitis. Oh ya, AND I have a brain and all in all it looks pretty good. WHO KNEW!?
Now Friday and I'm navigating ok. Haven't had to take the pills they gave me.. basic Dramamine type. Still off but not drifting away today. No quick movement recommended tho.. YOW. Scary. But, at least not a stroke! End of Old lady whine and snivel

Presents from Austrailia

2011-01-03T11:03:00.000-08:00

MMmm, Latest yumminess from my friend Sascha. Beautiful Purple scarf! The roving is amazing colors. Yarn perfect for socks..thinking on that one. BUNNY fur!! Always fun to mess with. All wrapped as presents this year. Love it!! Oh and a Magazine..love those too. Thanks so much for remembering me!!

Capt. Lacey

2010-12-31T04:43:00.000-08:00

Oh Marie .. your awesome!!
Finally, after moving half way across the country to Missouri, they found the pirate outfit I made for the baby. Looks like its almost to small. Looking good Lil Lacey.
Damn cute!

Christmas Morning 2010

2010-12-25T18:15:00.000-08:00

Lots of Pictures. The blue sweaters I made. Bryce couldn't wait to get out of his but Trysten wore his all day. For all I know he still has it on. YEAH!
Lots of Books and Art kits.
Marshall got a Chess set of the Chinese Terra cotta soldiers.
Wyatt has been playing with Indian cooking. He got a spice kit and a recipe book.
I got a LCD TV and a ton of nighties.
Bill.. well thats him with his BIG RED Cement mixer..in the living room!!
It was a good christmas. Only bump was Bryce not loving his sweater.. oh well. sniffle..
Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Christmas Party- just a few

2010-12-23T17:42:00.000-08:00

These are the Ladies of "The Church of the Holy Stitch"and the ladies from Village yarn and tea which closed a few weeks ago. We will miss the shop something horrible. I didn't make it to the party..in case your looking for me. I got a virus and was out for nearly 2 weeks. Miserable. So glad someone DID take Pictures. Love all the ladies!!! They're the best!

A picture says a 1000 words

2010-11-30T14:28:00.001-08:00

Turkey day photos for your pleasure!

2010-11-25T18:17:00.000-08:00

1.Grandma, the coats won't stay on the door knob!

2. oooo foods almost ready.. Think Jerico is hungry?

3.Followed by the Turkey coma till someone mentioned pie!!

Its snowing

2010-11-22T18:16:00.000-08:00

Miss Jayda (my youngest Grand daughter)
Love this Picture.

Christmas knitting

2010-11-21T20:48:00.000-08:00

Can you picture this little dress in Raspberry and black? Instead of the checkerboard pattern I'm doing a Leopard print band in wheat and black with touches of brown. Its for my grand daughter who loves that combination. I'm up to the band and its going good. Easy pattern. I found a Leopard print wristie pattern which is 28 rows and I only need 12 but I'll figure it out. I'm excited!!
Also, have 2 blue sweaters waiting in the bag. For the boys. To be done on the machine. Should take a day to do both except the ribbing. Fingers crossed. Christmas come way to fast to suit me!!!

Steam punk Convention

2010-11-20T10:48:00.000-08:00

Yup, thats my boys..Jerico and Marshall. All Gussy'd up for the Seattle Steam Punk Con. Jerico kinda scares me in that Techno pirate scary dude outfit. Marshall's outfit minus the hat and goggles reminds me of "Firefly". Which I guess was the point. Hee hee.

Wyatt and Kids

2010-11-16T18:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween. I love this picture of my son Wyatt and his 3 kids. Its obvious that they love him.

Final Fantasy XIV Open Beta

2010-09-20T05:35:00.000-07:00

NEW GAME....
Wutai server.. Character names Pixx Faha, Knitone Purltwo and Aine Slaniagh.

The Roof

2010-08-14T03:07:00.000-07:00

Bill and I built our addition starting when he was around 29. Same age as Marshall will be this year. The guys are attempting to roof and make right all the mistakes. I hear that Bill mumbles alot about stupid kids. Meaning, HIM, not our boys. Jerico was a roofer before he headed to the sea. Marshall is his minion. lol
I sit on the ground and try not to picture any of them falling. Even Wyatt has come by to help.

And FYI, this has been going on for around 2 months now. They are at the rear of the house now. Redesigning as they go. Fixing the rot because we never had gutters or sofets. Evicting squirrel families who have had nests up there for 30 years.

I so appreciate all the work the guys are doing. I'm so glad I can't get up there. I never could navigate slanted surfaces. They are letting me paint boards. So, I'm not totally useless.

Viking knitting

2010-08-14T02:46:00.000-07:00

I took a class from Valerie Day last month. Like usual when I start a new craft, I bought 10 rolls of silver art wire and went into production mode. Experimenting all over the place. I especially like the bracelet with the large Jade stone. Since this picture was taken I've made earrings with crystals woven threw it. And, a black wire bracelet.
This week I get to be Teachers helper for the new class. I'm excited.
Jerico asked if I could make a necklace thats thicker. I'll have to work on that. You pull the woven wire threw holes in an Oak board and I won't have any holes large enough. Bill will have to make me something if he has time.
Next I think I will actually try knitting with the wire. I have a necklace idea I'd like to try.

Pirate Update

2010-06-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

Now added..pants and a blanket.

When the Mice are away, the cat will play..hee hee

2010-05-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

Finished project

2010-05-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

Sweater has anchors across the back instead of skulls.

Oh ITS A BOY!!

2010-04-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

Just found out that Marie is having a baby boy. I'm going to be busy busy making baby stuff. She specifically asked for everything to be Pirate themed.
The first one I'm working on is this:
Now thats the pattern pic.. not what I made so cool your jets!
I have made Sockies already. Now am working on the booties.
I have several things planned we'll see how far I get. If I post things I never start them so I'll show ya later. Don't wanna jinx it.
On the family front..Marshall got hired over at Microsoft,again. Jerico is still home and looking for local work.
I'm fine.. got through all my medical drama with not to much trouble. Bill got through his with a little drama...but all turned out well. I even got all my silver fillings replace (on one side). Looks awesome!

Been Busy... I guess

2010-03-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts the last couple months. Lots of Doctor stuff for me and Hubby to get threw. Nothing to alarming. Not quite done with it yet either. I can sum it up... Colonoscopies. Freaks ya out, doesn't it? I dared my husband to get one by saying, "If you get one so will I." He called my bluff. I'm scheduled to start the process tomorrow. Meaning the first dr. visit.

Knitting.. ya I'm doing some. Working on another Selbu-modern hat. Slowly. The weather has been nice so I work on it in the sunshine. Finished the body of the Top down sweater I was making but I don't think its long enough..thinking of ripping out the seed stitch at the bottom...one more time. 3 more inches should do it. I keep saying that, I know!

Kids? Well, Marshall is still looking for work. Had a few interviews at Microsoft due to a manager that likes him but so far nothing.

Jyll got a Graphic job with Star Aviation. She's been there a whole week +2. Congrates. The rest of her family is looking pretty good.

Jerico is home for awhile. Won't go into it. Lets just say... DOH! See you in court.. sigh!

Thinking about gardening....thinking is the keyword there. My neck is still giving me trouble but massage and chiropractic is helping it not be SO bad!

Debra Barnes

2010-01-21T19:19:00.001-08:00

We lost our friend Deb (on the right) to Ovarian cancer on Sunday. She fought long and hard. Went out on her own terms.
We will not Grieve but rejoice in the Joy of knowing her.

Love you Deb... and Victoria too :) and everyone at Village Yarn and Tea

2010-01-21T19:17:00.000-08:00

Gifts from Australia

2009-12-28T15:12:00.000-08:00

Sascha out did herself ,again! Thanks Sascha!! The Collar didn't make it into the picture..I had it on as a Headband and totally forgot. It looks cool because I just bought a hot pink Jacket. Think I will live in it. lol. Oh and Sascha.. Bill said, "What no Licorice?" Just so you know..haha!
FYI.. she made a beautiful lacy pink neck warmer which makes a dandy headband too.

Christmas Morning

2009-12-26T05:15:00.000-08:00

Ooo, I got a commission!!

2009-12-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

I got hired to make 20 dishcloths.. 10 round 10 square. Nice man walked into VY&T needing them made and no one wanted to do it or didn't crochet. SO.. of course I opened my BIG mouth. I love making stuff for other people. Already have 4 round ones and half a square..thanks to Roger who crocheted 2 for me. Thanks Roger.
LOL.. Tis the season,huh,Ginger?

Congratulations Jyll

2009-12-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

More Pictures to come. This is the only one I got of Jyll on her graduation from ITT. We're so proud of her. She no sooner sat down from one award then they were calling her up for another!! She also gave the class speech! Love you girl!!

We studied hard

2009-12-01T13:13:00.000-08:00

Pink Glove dance

2009-11-30T19:02:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEdVfyt-mLw
The Embeded version has been blocked. But you should watch this anyway.

Marie before

2009-11-04T05:10:00.000-08:00

Marie Gets Married

2009-11-04T04:54:00.000-08:00

November 3, 2009 Marie Married Lacy Ferguson of Missouri. Married at a Justice of the Peaces. They are planning a large family wedding after they get out of the Marines.. in January 2010. Good luck my Little Marie..Errr Mrs. Ferguson.

Halloween

2009-10-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

October

2009-10-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and freezing my A** off. Wishing I had made better 'house' sweaters. I'll have to think on that.

Been working on Terri's sock. Which she kindly took back to finish. I don't think I could have looked at it another 10 min. Its beautiful but I was just done. If it had been for me, I would have parked it for a month and come back to it. lol.

On a family note..Jerico is back and is getting his drama fixed without me... YA!!

Bill's and Marshall's Birthdays this month. Fun times. Why is it I can never think what to get 'men' as presents? Women..no problem. But, men are difficult.

This month we were introduced to a number of oddities. Having nothing to do with knitting. The first is "The Guild" web comedy series. AND, the damn song that is stuck in my head and won't go away.."Do you wanna date my Avatar". You gotta be a gamer to appreciate this site. Well it helps. Not to forget "The Legend of Neil" a naughty spoof on The Legend of Zelda. Also, a game.

The boys went to Steampunkcon yesterday. Had an awesome time and came home with some crazy stuff. Like a shirt that has a Union logo on the chest..that says.. Mad Scientist Union #42(which we all know, from Hitchhikers guide to the Galaxy ,is the meaning of Life). Marshall came home with Goggles and a bag.
Looks kinda creepy and dangerous(sexy, I'm his mother..I didn't say that) doesn't he? Not bad for a Phone picture.

Knitting.. oh I'll get back to it. Threw my upper back out cleaning a bath tub. Well actually, getting up from cleaning it. Been hurting bad for about a week. But, its getting better. A professional massage and several amature ones have helped alot.

Still looking forward to all my sweaters (to finish) and I got a new one too. Can't find the picture so I'll get back to you on that.

Update

2009-09-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Lots of stuff going on. My brother inlaw Bill died Monday and I've been so depressed.
Couple of my friends are facing surgery. Which is upsetting me some.

Then there is some legal crap for my eldest son who is somewhere in the middle of no where on a ship and won't be home for 3 mo but a court summons has shown up for the 14th of THIS month!! I've been asked (by email) to see if I can do anything to postpone it till he gets back. So far, I hit a brick wall. The person I talked to actually laughed at me. Sigh. Thank goodness for Roger..my knitting buddy..who works in a law office. He told me where to look for help. whew. I'm glad he messaged me. I never even thought to ask him.

On a knitting note. I've been working on the Cloister sleeve sweater. On the bottom ribbing of the main sweater. Its a top down. In old Rose

Working on my Turquoise cardigan since I saw a finished one on Helen..from my Thursday knit group. Picture above is from the magazine.

Giant Norwegian knee sock for Terri Shea..yes Terri I am working on it. I had to put it down for a week or so. Not having a problem with it..just needed a break.

I have the yarn for 2 more Selbu Modern hats.. Mini mochi.. I love that yarn. Haven't started them yet.

Oh and a pair of green knee socks for the Butcher at my grocery store. What a sweet guy. We got talking and he does Black powder re-enacting. For some wierd reason I asked if he had authentic socks.. doh! I got sidetracked from them by the Giant Norwegian sock. I'll get back to them.. really.. I promised them by Christmas. I better get working!! EEK!

Bought a new book on Thursday Classic Elite Knits... I'm in love..I'm in love with the seed stitch blazer. There is a pullover also that I'm drooling over with these cool cables that make you look skinny..lol.. gotta make that one!

SO I'm living somewhere between depression and knitting needles. Life is pretty much.. as usual. sigh.. and LOL.. and cry..

On a lighter note. A gamer buddy, Jadewolf aka Rodney, sent a link for "The Guild" music video. Do you wanna to date my Avatar
Then come to find out there are gazillion episodes of a web series called "The Guild" starting with Season 1 Episode 1 here
I never laughed so hard. I recommend it to anyone who games or knows gamers etc. In a extreme sort of way its very true. I don't really see myself as any of the characters but I DO relate to them and know people who are really close. Scary huh?

you gotta see this

2009-08-25T04:24:00.001-07:00

This is so cute. Of course I know they edited it! But, it still makes me laugh and cry..its so sweet!

No more Carpet

2009-08-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

Bill put down new Brazilian Cherry floors in the AirStream trailer. I hated the avocado carpet. This looks so much better and SMELLS better too

No Knitting

2009-07-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

We're all gonna die!!!

Its 80 in my house already. ITS only 10am! Well for an hour I get to have laughing gas and A/C at the dentist. So, I'm gonna try to suck up all the COLD that I can. Cry..whine

Hope you all are comfortable wherever you are.

My mood

2009-07-13T19:31:00.001-07:00

Off to get Lunch.. at .. wait for it-------------

2009-07-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

Oh SNAP!! LOOK whats moved into the old Arctic Circle building in Mountlake Terrace!
Its called "Red Onion". I've been watching them repaint and fix up the old building. Trying not to get to excited. The last place in there was beyond HORRID. They put up thier new signs yesterday and it had the website on it so I looked it up.. for shits and giggles..and..

You'll never guess who bought the place.

Shawn and LaRae who owned Fifth ave. bar and grill in Edmonds!! Yes.. totally serious!!! My knitting buddies and I used to go down there all the time. We actually cried when they closed Fifth ave B&G. Such NICE people. I'm so excited to go down and visit them.

After I go feed Marshalls cat, Angel.. who is not in any way shape or form anything angelic. She always gives me the.. "Oh its you.. am I going to the vet to be molested again?" Look. She'd spit on my shoes if she could.

The Unwashed Knitter in on the Web...finally

2009-07-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

Our favorite knitter, Roger, finally got his blog up. Hopefully it will be chock full of his humor and his projects. YEAH!!! ROGER!!

Safe and Sound

2009-07-09T03:41:00.000-07:00

Fired the big kiln yesterday. Everything came out Lovely. So here is the promised picture. Only 1 of the 2 large plates. There were also several tiny cups and saucers and a compote bowl (I believe, thats what it is) All done in Similar colors and patterns.
They are making me want to get my China paints out and finish some of the projects that have been sitting for more then 10 years.
I have to return them to thier owner today. SIGH.. so pretty. Me like Pretty pretty..sigh..hee hee

Off knitting for a bit

2009-07-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

Valerie from my Thursday knit group asked if I could fire something that had been china painted. They were China painted by her GRANDMOTHER!! OMG.. thats not to scary is it??
So I ordered the cones (temperature guides) and they came Friday.
For those of you who don't know me well. I have been a ceramic artist since 1985. I've messed with just about every kind of clay there is.. except precious metal clay..which I'll get to eventually.

Anyway.. Deep breath... Today is the day. I'm going to run a test on one of the tiny cups. I brought the little kiln in and put it on the back porch. China paint stinks like burning cloves or whatever they used as a base medium. Oh ya I can smell it now..uck. Timers ticking.. My little kiln has no kiln sitter.. its simply..plug in .. unplug. So I have to watch the cone to see when it starts to bend.

I was so nervous about all of it that I even called Seattle pottery supply for advice. They said, I seemed to have a good handle on how to do it so.. fingers crossed!! Pictures will follow....

Happy Birthday

2009-07-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

All my Children.. lol. It was Bryce and Erykas Birthdays. July 3rd. It must have been 90 degrees. We all felt like the walking dead when it was over. Here are a few pictures.

Marshall (my youngest son)

Marshall and Wyatt in the River
I was cooling my feet on the sidelines.

The Beautiful Miss Jayda

Birthday Boy Bryce ... He's 3
and The Divine Miss E (Eryka, in the purple) who turned 13..I remember 13!

Rose hat..all done

2009-06-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

Still wet-ish but didn't it turn out Pretty!?

New Hat design

2009-06-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

Using the Selbu-modern numbers but plugging in a pattern from Poetry in stitches. Almost to where I need to figure out what I'm going to do for the decreases. Any help would be useful :) I'm thinking leaves maybe and using the stem for the rose as the decrease lines..if you know what I mean.

Caramello from my garden

2009-06-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Secrets

2009-06-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I got my "Assignment" from Terri Shea. Its a cute hat with little people on it. Can't show you..its a secret...shhhhh!
I've pulled it out twice and now I believe I've got it!!

Otherwise...life goes on. A rediculous amound of Drama coming from all directions. I imagine all of you have experienced the same. Ran into my friend Georgia yesterday and she asked me how I'd been..like usual..when I mentioned the drama of past weeks she nodded wisely and said, "oh yes, the planets are all messed up. Should be ok for the rest of June" whew!! She's always been my Astrology source.

I don't think I could stand to get hit in the head again!! Oh yes, never hang a metal candle lantern over the bed. No matter how sexy it is. Because, when you shake out the blankets while making the bed you "WILL" knock it off. If your lucky it will NOT hit you in the head and arms like it did me. Scared my hubby really good!! I just would not stop bleeding. Really thought I'd have to go to the hospital. But, all is well. Jangled nerves are soothed and body is healing.

Hat #2

2009-05-19T19:44:00.000-07:00

WHEW, Pink and white hat... DONE!
Here you see it on the 10 in form I'm using to dry it. Its still wet, so colors appear darker then they will when dry. Another Selbu-modern. LOVE IT.

Mothers day surprise..early

2009-05-03T04:41:00.000-07:00

Marshall went to the May day celebration at Camlann town. Its a medieval village roughly around Carnation that we used to go to several times a year when he was growning up. For the last couple of years they've done a sheep shearing demonstration. With the old fashion shears. Then they auctioned it off. Guess who won. No idea what kind of sheep this is. Just that its fairly young and it mmmm, pooped alot :)
UPDATE: I'm really sorry to say this but: this fleece turned out to be.. politely.. junk. When I took it to the processor they nearly burst into tears. Telling me that the fleece was felted..while on THE SHEEP! Something was said about the sheep being penned together and rubbing against each other while trying to stay warm (Awww.. poor babies). Which felted the wool. Sigh. It was a really sweet gift idea. I really did and still DO appreciate the thought!!

Finished Hat

2009-04-20T18:06:00.000-07:00

All blocked and beautiful. Finally finished. Looks like I need to make more! Very easy. This is Selbu-Modern from Ravelry

WOOOF!!

2009-04-09T09:54:00.000-07:00

Samoyed and Merino 3 ply. Both are handspun. Spinning the dog hair was alot easier then I expected. I put extra spin on the doghair but really didn't need it. Turned out lovely and smell ( I know your wondering) just Wonderful! Like Shampoo. Even when it was wet.

My hat

2009-03-30T17:06:00.000-07:00

The pattern is called Selbu Modern. Using Mini Mochi and Baby Ull. So far, so good.
Have plans to make 2 more of these. One in Rose and white and one in the last of the Mini mochi and Navy Baby Ull.

Spinning experiment

2009-03-19T19:20:00.000-07:00

Well all the pictures I took look a little fuzzy but this,my dears, is Samoyed dog hair. My friend Jeanne brought me a large plastic bag full of the brightest white, softest, really lovely stuff to spin up for her. I wondered how it would do uncarded. Its really easy to spin..so soft. I don't have any cards anyway but I could have improvised something. I considered mixing it with wool. I don't think I need to. Any of you ever spin dog fur?

My latest project

2009-02-16T03:49:00.000-08:00

Worked in a bright shade of Violet, I started this last night and its going fast! Haven't crocheted a garment in 20+ years.
From the Fall Interweave Crochet Magazine.

Valentine High Tea at Village Yarn and Tea

2009-02-14T08:08:00.000-08:00

25 things about me

2009-01-30T17:45:00.000-08:00

Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you.

1. Having my sons is the best thing I ever did.
2. I love Homeschooling.
3. I am a chocoholic. Which is hard for a diabetic...I plan around it
4. My favorite color is pink.
5. Lunch OUT is my favorite thing to do.
6. I miss living in Hawaii.
7. My hair color is subject to change without notice.
8. I drink a ton of Tea.
9. If allowed, I'd play ~MY~ video game(Final fantasy XI), ALL day.
10. I dote on my cats, Mitzie and (Dark) Crystal.
11. I love crafts..all kinds.. the older the better.
12. I am a sucker for~ children.
13. I abhor spiders. EEEK!!
14. My favorite movie is Willow or Princess Bride.
15. I love to build things. Carpentry is sexy!!
16. I love my friends! You can't have enough friends.
17. I have many small businesses. I get that from my mom.
18. I love my Grandchildren and wish I saw them more.
19. Messes make me nervous and overwhelmed.
20. Once a Hippy always a Hippy + baths.
21. I love to use my spinning wheel outside in the summer.
22. I love to camp in my trailer.
23. I love the spring. I can curl up in a blanket in the grass and sleep all day.
24. I love my husband...I really do.. even if he drives me crazy.
25. I tend to think I'm a bitch just about the time people tell me I'm sweet. Who knew!!

I'm supposed to hit 10 people with this thing but I will pass. If you like these things consider yourself Tagged!

I had a Dream

2009-01-23T04:54:00.001-08:00

I remember when Marshall moved out. I had a huge case of "Empty Nest Syndrome". But.......

I had a dream last week. After finding out that my middle son,Wyatt, got laid off. He's a graphic designer/drafter. He's also the one with a wife, 4 kids and a mortgage.

Then, there are the Microsoft lay offs. Youngest son, Marshall, tells me it doesn't involve him but you never know.

Then, there is my Eldest son, Jerico, who works on a ship surrounded by racists that drive him crazy so he's nearly quit a dozen times.

Do you see where I'm going with this?

Do you remember the 70's and 80's TV series The Waltons? A story about a large family during the depression. Fav. line was "Good night, John boy".

Anyway...I have an urge to clear out the rec room so we can use it as bedrooms. There is room for at least 3 rooms if we divide it up.

Its beginning to look like a REAL depression. I'm getting worried. I hope Mr. Obama can work a miracle.
Otherwise its gonna be.. "Good night mama.. Good night Wyatt boy."

Video game humor

2009-01-22T16:42:00.000-08:00

Newest projects

2009-01-22T15:48:00.000-08:00

*This is a Smoke ring from Heartstrings. I just cast it on this morning and have about 4 rows done.
I'm making it from the pink from Australia (story below) wish me luck. Will post photo when I get a couple of pattern repeats done.

*Still working on the Cloister stitch sweater. Down to the armholes on the back. Will take photo after I get a bit more done.

* Finished a pair of fingerless mitts in Pink silk for myself. Since I've given most other pairs away..lol. These are MINE

Sent from Australia

2009-01-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Got this gift from my Epal, Sascha, in Australia. All Angora or mixed with Angora. The pink was specially dyed for me!! Its my favorite shade of pink..bordering on Pepto Pink. LOL Wonderful!!! Sascha and I have been exchanging yarn/magazines for more years then I can count. She made me the first pair of fingerless mitts and got me started down THAT road. I must mention the beautiful socks she made me last year..way beyond what I have the patience for.
You should check the Angora ladies website at Ixchelbunny.blogspot.com
A very lovely site with lots of cute bunnies and *gulp* *squeezes eyes shut* YARN and ROVING.. I can't look

35th Wedding Anniversary

2008-12-31T09:49:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? I can't...35 years married...37 all together. Wow. And, Look what my honey got me!!

You all know how challenged I've been for the last 2 years without a decent Camera.

So many instructions to learn now. But, I'm managing and THANK god Jennifer had one of these (or something similar) and can help me. Won't you dear? Maybe? Anyway...
Happy NEW YEAR..and Happy Anniversary to Billy and I......Wheeeeee

Merry Christmas from THE TURNER'S

2008-12-25T18:15:00.000-08:00

Snow snow snow... ACK!!!

2008-12-24T12:19:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas anyway. Hope you are all safe and warm.
We're ready for whatever the weather brings but..we don't have to like it!!

Smootches and Hugs
Annie and the kids

SNOW

2008-12-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

I CAN NOT believe how much snow we have!! I went to let the cats out the back door..which opens out..and it wouldn't go..a foot or more snow in the way!

Bill had cleaned off the walkway and driven his car only yesterday. You can't tell. The bricks that line the front garden..gone..disappeared like they were never there..but I know they are under there someplace. Poor tree out front looks like its going to break. Glad Bill trimmed back the big tree in the back since it breaks a few more branches every year. All I can say is WOW..

If it stays like this threw Christmas, I guess it will be postponed. Don't Hurt yourselves getting here. * Thats for Wyatt and Jyll..and my brother Mike. *
Everyone have a good Christmas and stay safe...Love you all!!

Christmas Knitting

2008-12-17T18:42:00.000-08:00

Mitts inspired by Good friend, Terri Shea's book. I don't mean to brag..ok, so I do..but I did knit one of the pairs of mittens in this book :) I don't usually do this kind of knitting so doing it on my own, so to speak, was hard. I like how they turned out.
I also made several pairs of my usual..Cashmere/homespun mitts. They're kind of dark..hope you can see them.

St. Distaff's day.. moves

2008-12-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

St. Distaff's Day Annual Spin-in. Saturday, January 3, 2009 10am to 4pm. Cavelero Mid High 8220 24th St. SE Everett, WA

I heard this today a Seaview Weavers guild.
I guess St Pius has gotten to small so its been moved to the above address. Yes, it is annoying since St. Pius is 3 blocks away but.. I do understand the need for more room. Hope its not snowing!! Hope people actually read my blog so they get this info!

Gamer Grandma

2008-12-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

Bill snapped this photo of Trysten and I doing a mission with my sons Jerico and Marshall on Final Fantasy XI. He's making sure I'm following the right person and reading names off for me. I'm talking to the boys on the headset on Skype (an internet chat program) that works like the telephone. No pushing a buttons to talk, just talk.

We had a great time.

Meanwhile, his mama was taking detailed measurements of my spinning wheel for her graphic design classes at ITT.. or maybe it was Geometry..anyway.

Finished the black black BLACK fingerless mitts. WHEW!!

Catch up

2008-12-07T02:48:00.000-08:00

Now that Thanksgiving is over ...Christmas looms in my mind. Oddly enough I'm nearly done shopping already. I love the internet! I love AMAZON.com ..hee hee

Been working on several projects mostly for presents so I'm not showing any pics. Always seems if I show a Picture of a WIP that I never start it or never finish it. Delusions I guess.

I've had a lovely case of the flu/cold all week so mostly stayed in bed. Feeling much better now ..Thanks. Seems that my friend Donny in Wyoming has it too. Now I only talk to Donny on the internet..how is it we both wound up sick at the same time?? Wierd!

Did alot of Flat feet dyeing last Sunday at Elsa's, with Brad and Debby, from VYT. Haven't laughed that hard in a long time. Guess what some of you are getting for Christmas?

Been having alot of fun (inspite of being sick) with my 2 sons(Jerico and Marshall) that play Final Fantasy XI online. We get on Skype (an internet phone program, free) and chatter at each other and run Jerico threw his missions. He's trying to catch up a little even tho we have 6 years on him. Sure beats typing stuff.. Like.. "WATCH out, theres a goblin behind you!!" Because by the time you finish the sentence..he's already dead..lol.

Hopefully next week will be more productive. Nearly finished with the knitted presents. But, still have a little shopping to do. My husband is impossible to shop for. He already owns every tool known to man. Thanks to his loving wife of 36 years.

I lived threw Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

Turned out yummy. Smoked Turkey made by my lovely husband, Bill. Only picture I've stolen off his computer, so far. I will try to post more later. Wyatt and Jyll and 3 of the Grandkids came and made the day worth all the work. Jerico was home from the sea. Although Marshall had to work (!!!!!!!!) he still came. I saved him a plate of everything and half a fruitcake as requested. All in all a good day..especially after I had a beer and unclinched.
Picture shows a tiny corner of my kitchen. I guess you could call it the main working area. There is also a dining table (where Bill must have been standing to take the picture) and if he swung to his left you would have seen Wyatt and Jyll sitting at the breakfast bar, trying not to grab the turkey.

BUT, back to knitting. Working on BLACK, black, black fingerless mitts which I'm nearly done with. Restarted my Peacock sweater. Bought yarn to make a pullover out of Inca Gold in green (Thanks Mike for the Birthday gift card) picture at bottom. I may have finally found a yarn that will work for the cloisters sweater ,that I've had so much trouble with. I WANT this sweater bad. Only problem is that the original was knit in homespun. I haven't been able to find anything that gives the same gauge without being to loose or bullet proof. Debby at VYT suggested, Frog Tree Alpaca, I think it mightl work on size 3's. I ran up a couple swatches yesterday. But, I may have to wait till Christmas to get the yarn. Of course, it couldn't work out of stuff I had in my stash.. oh NO.. no way.. sigh. hee hee.

I should be knitting gifts. Maybe I'll sneak some of those in too!! Rather liking this little neck warmer from DreamWeaveryarns.com

ThanksGiving Thoughts

2008-11-20T17:20:00.001-08:00

I love the food. I love my relatives. I HATE Thanksgiving. I always have a break down and cry. It doesn't matter who does the cooking. Whats up with that??