While I was away in CA for a wedding, Ken decided to play groomer. I expressly asked him not to touch her pretty hair, but I guess he got bored one night! Kona doesn't seem to mind, but she looks like a little rat!!!
I had a fun time exploring old haunts and it was so nice to see my friend Peter finally get hitched. While walking along 24th Street in Noe, I noticed a new knit shop! Noe Knits! It was a lovely shop and I wish it were there when I lived in the neighborhood.
I'll post pics soon!
Friday, June 24, 2005
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Making Progress
My sweater is on its way to being finished. This time I mean it! I completed the picking up needed for the shawl collar and just have to sew up the sleeves and sides. Hurray! I'll post a picture.
The baby blanket is coming along nicely. I'm about to start my 4th skein. I just need a baby to use it. Keep praying for that.
Last weekend I whipped up a baby hat in time for a friend's shower, but I got a blister doing it.
A new yarn shop opened up on 85th Street called The Wooly Monkey. I must go check it out and report back. I'm too lazy to link it so here's the URL: http://www.woolymonkey.com/
The baby blanket is coming along nicely. I'm about to start my 4th skein. I just need a baby to use it. Keep praying for that.
Last weekend I whipped up a baby hat in time for a friend's shower, but I got a blister doing it.
A new yarn shop opened up on 85th Street called The Wooly Monkey. I must go check it out and report back. I'm too lazy to link it so here's the URL: http://www.woolymonkey.com/
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Birthday Festivities
At 3:56 pm today, I turned 31. Not old, yet no longer young. Ken took me for a delicious dinner at Wild Ginger, an Asian fusion place I wanted to try since moving here. I had the Duck with Steamed Buns. The dish was very scrumptious. When I sank my teeth into it I was so happy. I love duck, but never cook it.
On Friday we stayed up late until midnight Saturday when Ken and Kona gave me my presents. I’ll post the photo of my dear hubby and baby bear Kona with presents in hand soon. They are so cute! For once Ken got me what I wanted. A pedicure at InSpa!!! And to surprise me even more, he and Kona got me a gift certificate to Value Village!
Today, Ken woke up, walked Kona, and then cooked me a yummy breakfast. Sausage, fried eggs, and banana pancakes. So yummy, I love sausage. Despite the downpour, we set out for Fairhaven , a quaint town about 90 miles north of Seattle. On the way there, we stopped off in Mount Vernon to visit a yarn shop called Hellen’s Needlework. She doesn’t have a website, but here’s the link to the list of shops on the Seattle Knitter’s Guild website. They had a great sale on older patterns so I bought an Ann Norling pattern for an Entrelac Throw. It was only FIFTY CENTS!!! Ken was great to take me there!
To get to Fairhaven we had to take Route 11 which is a very a scenic drive. We could see the San Juans and stopped off at an Oyster Farm along the way. We didn’t get anything, but it all looked so fresh. Once in Fairhaven, we checked out some of the local shops. Ken had planned on lunch at Jacci’s , a fish and chips joint operated out of the double-decker bus. It was the best fish and chips we’ve had since moving here. A thousand times better than Spuds!
Fairhaven also had a tea room called the Abbey Garden Tea Room. Ken had planned on having afternoon tea there, but we were too full after the yummy lunch at Jacci’s. Kona had a fun walk about town, but was scared by some of the bigger dogs. She got all wet, but loved walking around instead of being left in the car. While walking we happened upon a yarn shop! It wasn’t listed on the Seattle Knitter’s Guild website. This store is definitely worth the trip. They had a very large selection of yarn and kits for projects. The prices were reasonable. I didn’t buy anything though.
After Fairhaven, we headed to Bellingham to check it out. As we walked around we thought it was kind of sleepy in the city. We went to a couple of Antique and consignment type shops, but didn’t dilly dally. On the way back home we ran errands and Ken surprised me again with a trip to St. Vincents and Value Village. Birthdays are the best! I didn’t find much except a copper heart-shaped mold for .99 cents. We’ll see what it fetches on eBay. Our last meal of the day was winner again! L&L . Gotta love Hawaiian plate meals! Can’t be beat. Can you tell that we are all about good and cheap food?
When I got home, I found more birthday cards and a gift certificate to Banana Republic in the mail! Thanks Jin!!!
On Friday we stayed up late until midnight Saturday when Ken and Kona gave me my presents. I’ll post the photo of my dear hubby and baby bear Kona with presents in hand soon. They are so cute! For once Ken got me what I wanted. A pedicure at InSpa!!! And to surprise me even more, he and Kona got me a gift certificate to Value Village!
Today, Ken woke up, walked Kona, and then cooked me a yummy breakfast. Sausage, fried eggs, and banana pancakes. So yummy, I love sausage. Despite the downpour, we set out for Fairhaven , a quaint town about 90 miles north of Seattle. On the way there, we stopped off in Mount Vernon to visit a yarn shop called Hellen’s Needlework. She doesn’t have a website, but here’s the link to the list of shops on the Seattle Knitter’s Guild website. They had a great sale on older patterns so I bought an Ann Norling pattern for an Entrelac Throw. It was only FIFTY CENTS!!! Ken was great to take me there!
To get to Fairhaven we had to take Route 11 which is a very a scenic drive. We could see the San Juans and stopped off at an Oyster Farm along the way. We didn’t get anything, but it all looked so fresh. Once in Fairhaven, we checked out some of the local shops. Ken had planned on lunch at Jacci’s , a fish and chips joint operated out of the double-decker bus. It was the best fish and chips we’ve had since moving here. A thousand times better than Spuds!
Fairhaven also had a tea room called the Abbey Garden Tea Room. Ken had planned on having afternoon tea there, but we were too full after the yummy lunch at Jacci’s. Kona had a fun walk about town, but was scared by some of the bigger dogs. She got all wet, but loved walking around instead of being left in the car. While walking we happened upon a yarn shop! It wasn’t listed on the Seattle Knitter’s Guild website. This store is definitely worth the trip. They had a very large selection of yarn and kits for projects. The prices were reasonable. I didn’t buy anything though.
After Fairhaven, we headed to Bellingham to check it out. As we walked around we thought it was kind of sleepy in the city. We went to a couple of Antique and consignment type shops, but didn’t dilly dally. On the way back home we ran errands and Ken surprised me again with a trip to St. Vincents and Value Village. Birthdays are the best! I didn’t find much except a copper heart-shaped mold for .99 cents. We’ll see what it fetches on eBay. Our last meal of the day was winner again! L&L . Gotta love Hawaiian plate meals! Can’t be beat. Can you tell that we are all about good and cheap food?
When I got home, I found more birthday cards and a gift certificate to Banana Republic in the mail! Thanks Jin!!!
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Gifts Come A Rollin' In
Dear Secret Pal,
Many heartfelt thanks for your very generous gift certificate! Boy will that get me tons of yarn from elann.com. I hope all is well with you and that you are gearing up for a blessed Easter weekend.
Hugs,
Yu Linda
Many heartfelt thanks for your very generous gift certificate! Boy will that get me tons of yarn from elann.com. I hope all is well with you and that you are gearing up for a blessed Easter weekend.
Hugs,
Yu Linda
Sunday, March 20, 2005
New Ventures
Just been busy busy busy prepping for Easter at church, with serial doctor's appointments to monitor follicle size, and finally with shopping about town to sell stuff on eBay. I've bought what I consider to be nice items, but unfortunately, they don't always sell. Luckily I buy things that I wouldn't really mind keeping. At least I try to do that most of the time. Last Friday I went to what was advertised as the largest rummage sale in the state of Washington. It benefited the Lakeside School.
I found some really good items like a copper (real copper this time, not copper tone) mold in the shape of a penny. Yeah, complete with Abe Lincoln's side profile. Other items of interest, an Emile Henry butter dish for a buck, a vintage corning ware drip coffee maker, and a white milk bottle which I'll keep. Keep an eye on my ebay site:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZheartsongdesigns
As for knitting, I have made progress on the baby blanket, but not on finishing my sweater. I have to pick up stitches for the collar and that's always a challenge for me, so I've avoided it. That's why the blanket is seeing a lot of my time.
I'm starting another knitting group with ladies from my church. We plan on knitting items to donate. Hopefully we'll start our meeting towards the end of the month. And that's all for now!
I found some really good items like a copper (real copper this time, not copper tone) mold in the shape of a penny. Yeah, complete with Abe Lincoln's side profile. Other items of interest, an Emile Henry butter dish for a buck, a vintage corning ware drip coffee maker, and a white milk bottle which I'll keep. Keep an eye on my ebay site:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZheartsongdesigns
As for knitting, I have made progress on the baby blanket, but not on finishing my sweater. I have to pick up stitches for the collar and that's always a challenge for me, so I've avoided it. That's why the blanket is seeing a lot of my time.
I'm starting another knitting group with ladies from my church. We plan on knitting items to donate. Hopefully we'll start our meeting towards the end of the month. And that's all for now!
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Finally Finishing
My shawl collared sweater is on the road to completion. I started finishing it last night using the mattress stitch. Hope it turns out okay. My goal is to finish and post a picture by the end of the week. I also have to figure out how to have a completed project gallery on my sidebar. So much to do!!!
Last Saturday, I went to the WAC for tea with my friend Esther. It was a deliciously charming afternoon. A man who owns a tea shop called, Elizabeth and Alexander's (http://www.e-a-englishtearoom.com/) spoke about hospitality and tea. Surprisingly he quoted scripture and talked about the providential mandate to be hospitable. Loved his talk.
Even as a little girl, I've always loved the process of having tea. My taste for it has developed over the years. I liked Lipton Tea in bag form and Oolong and Jasmine were always around. Now I'm a bit of a snob, but don't have time to prepare a "proper" cup of tea so I used the bags most often. Sad, I know. But I learned that it is best to use fine bone china for tea b/c it retains heat well. Never knew that.
During my recent excursions to thrift shops, I've been buying tea cups and saucers. I have a bunch of simple white ones and a couple with simple designs on them. I figure I'll collect a bunch to use for entertaining and maybe one day have a shop of my own. One can only dream...
Last Saturday, I went to the WAC for tea with my friend Esther. It was a deliciously charming afternoon. A man who owns a tea shop called, Elizabeth and Alexander's (http://www.e-a-englishtearoom.com/) spoke about hospitality and tea. Surprisingly he quoted scripture and talked about the providential mandate to be hospitable. Loved his talk.
Even as a little girl, I've always loved the process of having tea. My taste for it has developed over the years. I liked Lipton Tea in bag form and Oolong and Jasmine were always around. Now I'm a bit of a snob, but don't have time to prepare a "proper" cup of tea so I used the bags most often. Sad, I know. But I learned that it is best to use fine bone china for tea b/c it retains heat well. Never knew that.
During my recent excursions to thrift shops, I've been buying tea cups and saucers. I have a bunch of simple white ones and a couple with simple designs on them. I figure I'll collect a bunch to use for entertaining and maybe one day have a shop of my own. One can only dream...
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
BFN, Kindred Spirit, More shop therapy
Secret Pal: It was a BFN or Big Fat Negative. Thank you for your prayers though. We'll do another round of IUI with the letrozole and pray for the best. I hope you are doing well!
The other day I met a kindred spirit. She and I work for the same place to administer reading measures. Kindly she offered to pick me up to go to the school site since I'm w/o the car during the day this month. She is a knitter, educator, a follower of Christ, and an all around nice person. She doesn't have a dog, so we'll have to work that one in ;). Anyway, thanks for reading my blog RuthAnne!
So I finally received my Knitpicks order and am very pleased with it. They weren't kidding when they said 5-14 days. It actually took 12 days. That's fine for free shipping. The color I ordered in the Merino turned out to be more purplish or lavender than blue, but I prefer that... My friend's Andean Silk is soooooo soft. I can't believe she wants to wait until Saturday to get it. She's taking me out to high tea for my birthday on Saturday. Will write all about it. Back to the yarn, I love the Andean Silk, so I went to order more b/c I got a Baby Shower invite in the mail today. Yes, you read that correctly, I bought more yarn. It really was an impulse thing too. I did it right after the BFN. This time, I made it to 30 bucks all on my own. What did I just do??? Too late anyways, that was my moment of regret. It's over. So I think I'll make another Baby Kimono for this child whose shower I was invited to. On another note, the count for pregnant ladies at church went up to eight!
Went to church to work on the Missions Bulletin Board. Felt very teacherly. Found out that the church secretary gave her notice and that the position is open. Hmm...I just might apply for it. Tuesday-Friday from 10-2pm!!! And I can probably bring Konster on some days. Only prob is that it will take two buses during the months when I don't have the car. Will have to pray on it...
That's all for now. Back to IDOL.
The other day I met a kindred spirit. She and I work for the same place to administer reading measures. Kindly she offered to pick me up to go to the school site since I'm w/o the car during the day this month. She is a knitter, educator, a follower of Christ, and an all around nice person. She doesn't have a dog, so we'll have to work that one in ;). Anyway, thanks for reading my blog RuthAnne!
So I finally received my Knitpicks order and am very pleased with it. They weren't kidding when they said 5-14 days. It actually took 12 days. That's fine for free shipping. The color I ordered in the Merino turned out to be more purplish or lavender than blue, but I prefer that... My friend's Andean Silk is soooooo soft. I can't believe she wants to wait until Saturday to get it. She's taking me out to high tea for my birthday on Saturday. Will write all about it. Back to the yarn, I love the Andean Silk, so I went to order more b/c I got a Baby Shower invite in the mail today. Yes, you read that correctly, I bought more yarn. It really was an impulse thing too. I did it right after the BFN. This time, I made it to 30 bucks all on my own. What did I just do??? Too late anyways, that was my moment of regret. It's over. So I think I'll make another Baby Kimono for this child whose shower I was invited to. On another note, the count for pregnant ladies at church went up to eight!
Went to church to work on the Missions Bulletin Board. Felt very teacherly. Found out that the church secretary gave her notice and that the position is open. Hmm...I just might apply for it. Tuesday-Friday from 10-2pm!!! And I can probably bring Konster on some days. Only prob is that it will take two buses during the months when I don't have the car. Will have to pray on it...
That's all for now. Back to IDOL.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Sleeves Done!
While watching Ray (excellent movie) and Friday Night Lights (don't understand when football is the center of one's universe) earlier tonight, I finished both my sleeves and am back on track with right side of the cardigan. Hopefully I'll get a bit further along before the knitting group meets at my house on Monday.
Secret Pal: We took Kona to two doggie parks in the area and she got the Beggin' Strips for not being afraid with the big doggies. She's doing better with big dogs. Also, say a prayer if you have time, I'm testing in the next few days and hope for a positive! Thanks sister!
Secret Pal: We took Kona to two doggie parks in the area and she got the Beggin' Strips for not being afraid with the big doggies. She's doing better with big dogs. Also, say a prayer if you have time, I'm testing in the next few days and hope for a positive! Thanks sister!
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Lovely Weather Motivates Me
Seattle has been good to us. We've had virtually no rain for the last two week and it's been sunny, not partly sunny, but really sunny. I just love it. Puts me and all those around in a happy mood. I realize we are getting spoiled and that Seattle winters aren't always like this, but I'll take it.
Well, late last week I caved and purchased the yarn I had been eyeing from www.knitpicks.com. My friend Esther joined me in purchasing so that we could make the free shipping for orders over $30. The plan is to make a nice baby blanket with the merino wool I purchased in cornflower. I chose blue because it was really the one color I liked, so regardless of whether our first born is a boy or girl (no news there yet, still trying), it will have a blue blankie. That other blanket I made with the crazy colors isn't really fit for a baby. It does make a nice lap blanket for me. Good thing I'm petite.
My sleeves are coming along nicely. I think I'm going to be done with them by week's end! The gals at knitting thought I should wear the completed sweater to our group next week. I don't know about that, but I am excited that we will be meeting at my house next Monday for a pot luck dinner and knitting. A new lady joined us yesterday, so that was nice.
Yesterday I went thrift store hunting again with this friend from church. The ice skates he found last week for $9 sold for $36. Also, he had a ukelele that he picked up for $5.99 sell for 115 bucks! Way to go! I am considering doing the same. Yesterday I picked up a truly vintage (yeah right) corning ware 10 cup percolator. I say this jokingly because growing up in the 70s and 80s, my mom had lots of corning ware stuff. Ah, where is it now? I also picked up a couple of copper jello molds. Last night I made some jello in one of them for my woman's group meeting tonight. They were under a buck each. I think I'll get a few more items together and then try my hand at selling my finds...
Well, late last week I caved and purchased the yarn I had been eyeing from www.knitpicks.com. My friend Esther joined me in purchasing so that we could make the free shipping for orders over $30. The plan is to make a nice baby blanket with the merino wool I purchased in cornflower. I chose blue because it was really the one color I liked, so regardless of whether our first born is a boy or girl (no news there yet, still trying), it will have a blue blankie. That other blanket I made with the crazy colors isn't really fit for a baby. It does make a nice lap blanket for me. Good thing I'm petite.
My sleeves are coming along nicely. I think I'm going to be done with them by week's end! The gals at knitting thought I should wear the completed sweater to our group next week. I don't know about that, but I am excited that we will be meeting at my house next Monday for a pot luck dinner and knitting. A new lady joined us yesterday, so that was nice.
Yesterday I went thrift store hunting again with this friend from church. The ice skates he found last week for $9 sold for $36. Also, he had a ukelele that he picked up for $5.99 sell for 115 bucks! Way to go! I am considering doing the same. Yesterday I picked up a truly vintage (yeah right) corning ware 10 cup percolator. I say this jokingly because growing up in the 70s and 80s, my mom had lots of corning ware stuff. Ah, where is it now? I also picked up a couple of copper jello molds. Last night I made some jello in one of them for my woman's group meeting tonight. They were under a buck each. I think I'll get a few more items together and then try my hand at selling my finds...
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Valentine's Day on 2/17!!!
On Monday, Ken and I went to the famous Spud's Fish and Chips at Greenlake to celebrate Valentine's Day. He got the idea because a patient he saw was told to go straight to an ER because he had vomited up blood and had low blood pressure. Well, what does this dude do? He stops off at Spuds before heading to the hospital. Can you believe that? Anyway, Ken figured if it's a good enough for a guy to risk his life for, it's good enough for Valentine's Day. We are not fish and chips aficionados, but it was only okay. We both felt ill after our all fried dinner. I think we prefer Ivar's.
Earlier in the day, I went to nine, yes nine!, thrift shops with a friend from church. He sells stuff on eBAY to make money to buy sleeping bags and blankets for the homeless. Anyway, I found 3 cups and saucers. I don't think I can go two or three times a week like he does, but I will go one in a while. He's trying to convince me to sell stuff on eBAY. We'll see...
The weekly knitting group I started was rescheduled for Tuesday since Monday was sort of a holiday. While there I got up to the point of increasing my sleeves. Hurray! The other gals were moving along with their projects too! Connie started a baby blanket for her baby, Becky was working on her pup Gia's sweater and Esther worked on a scarf.
I was eagerly awaiting a package from my Secret Pal (who is AWESOME). She gave me a "heads-up" that it would arrive on Wednesday. But when I got home from work on Wednesday I didn't see a package. So I just thought the US Post Office messed up as they have been known to do. I thought it would come today for sure. Well when I got home from my second day of testing earlier today there was no package on the front steps or in the bushes (which is where they often leave packages since my front door is exposed to all walking on the street). When I told Ken that my goodies had not arrived, he told me to check the behind the gate to the backyard. I went out in my PJs and there was nothing there! :( Then something made me walk all the way into the backyard to the deck and our back door. In the dark, I made out the shape of a box! I got so excited, I rapped on the window to show Ken! Then I ran all the way back to the front door-which I left open-because I couldn't wait to get inside to open my surprise from my dear Secret Pal.
Here's what I got!
Beggin' Strips for dear Kona (Kona says thank you thinking of her)
A pair of cute socks (for my cold feet!)
Two large mugs for my coffee or tea
A set of love songs on CDs
Sweet smelling hand lotion
A Snoopy Valentine's Day card
Secret Pal: A big cyberhug and thank you for the very thoughtful gifts.
Earlier in the day, I went to nine, yes nine!, thrift shops with a friend from church. He sells stuff on eBAY to make money to buy sleeping bags and blankets for the homeless. Anyway, I found 3 cups and saucers. I don't think I can go two or three times a week like he does, but I will go one in a while. He's trying to convince me to sell stuff on eBAY. We'll see...
The weekly knitting group I started was rescheduled for Tuesday since Monday was sort of a holiday. While there I got up to the point of increasing my sleeves. Hurray! The other gals were moving along with their projects too! Connie started a baby blanket for her baby, Becky was working on her pup Gia's sweater and Esther worked on a scarf.
I was eagerly awaiting a package from my Secret Pal (who is AWESOME). She gave me a "heads-up" that it would arrive on Wednesday. But when I got home from work on Wednesday I didn't see a package. So I just thought the US Post Office messed up as they have been known to do. I thought it would come today for sure. Well when I got home from my second day of testing earlier today there was no package on the front steps or in the bushes (which is where they often leave packages since my front door is exposed to all walking on the street). When I told Ken that my goodies had not arrived, he told me to check the behind the gate to the backyard. I went out in my PJs and there was nothing there! :( Then something made me walk all the way into the backyard to the deck and our back door. In the dark, I made out the shape of a box! I got so excited, I rapped on the window to show Ken! Then I ran all the way back to the front door-which I left open-because I couldn't wait to get inside to open my surprise from my dear Secret Pal.
Here's what I got!
Beggin' Strips for dear Kona (Kona says thank you thinking of her)
A pair of cute socks (for my cold feet!)
Two large mugs for my coffee or tea
A set of love songs on CDs
Sweet smelling hand lotion
A Snoopy Valentine's Day card
Secret Pal: A big cyberhug and thank you for the very thoughtful gifts.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
ADHD Knitter
Do you have a hard time sticking to one project? I do. Do you find yourself not working on any projects and just surfing blogs to see what other people are making? I do. Do you spend forever trying to plan out future projects for yarn you have not yet purchased and do not need to purchase? I do.
Seriously I have a problem. I really need to stick to my outstanding projects. So my goal for February is to finish two of the following: the baby sweater, my sweater, my mom's shawl, and/or the ribbed scarf. Forget the lacy scarf, I messed it up too bad. So I am making a public announcement to NOT begin a new project until I finish at least two of the aforementioned projects.
Earlier today, I almost bid for a lot of circular needles on eBay. Someone stop me.
I heard from my Secret Pal. She says a package is on the way. Hurray. I can't wait to get it Secret Pal! I hope you have recovered from your illness.
Seriously I have a problem. I really need to stick to my outstanding projects. So my goal for February is to finish two of the following: the baby sweater, my sweater, my mom's shawl, and/or the ribbed scarf. Forget the lacy scarf, I messed it up too bad. So I am making a public announcement to NOT begin a new project until I finish at least two of the aforementioned projects.
Earlier today, I almost bid for a lot of circular needles on eBay. Someone stop me.
I heard from my Secret Pal. She says a package is on the way. Hurray. I can't wait to get it Secret Pal! I hope you have recovered from your illness.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Home Sweet Home, New Acquisitions
Alas, I am back home in Seattle. Being away was so hard for me. The work was stressful so let's not go there. I was thrown off my routine and it all started with leaving my ATM in the machine right before leaving for Oakland. That started a chain reaction of stupid ditzy moves. Deep breaths, who cares, I'm back home with my Kona and Ken. In honor of not having to work, I was a domestic goddess today for a welcome change of pace. I did laundry, made cupcakes with Betty Crocker's help, and marinated some thinly sliced steak for dinner tomorrow. Sadly, I didn't make it out to garden. I should have because it was a lovely day in Seattle.
So while in Oakland, I was able to steal some time to visit one yarn shop, Article Pract . When I lived in SF, I visited the shop a couple of times. I can't recall if I ever bought anything, but they have a great selection of well known and lesser known brands of yarn. They also do special orders. All in all it is a cute little shop with a decent amount of sale items and a lovely variety of needles at really good prices. It was the first store where I saw Crystal Palace's new Daisy needles. They come in very pretty colors. I bought a pair of 10 3/4 needles that were two shades of pink. The gal at the shop said she didn't like them as much as bamboo, but I wanted to give them a go, plus they are so cute it was hard to resist. I'll post the picture later. I also purchased a skein of Lamb's Pride Bulky Yarn in Tiger Lily and a set of Pony double pointed needles for socks. Tiger Lily is beautiful and it isn't a color I would typically gravitate towards. I started a scarf with it using a wavy rib pattern. While there I also bought two row counters. They were only $1.95 each. The same row counters can go for as much as 4 bucks in other stores so I quickly snatched them. Anyway, I am really excited about my purchases.
While away, I did manage to get back to the point where I made the mistake on my sleeves, so there was some movement on the sweater. Here are my priorities for next week:
1. Finish Wavy Scarf
2. Make progress on sleeves of shawl collar sweater
3. Complete my report of work in Oakland
4. Edit at least two assignments
5. Rake up residual leaves and trim rose bushes
6. Continue to work on baby sweater
It's good to be home!
So while in Oakland, I was able to steal some time to visit one yarn shop, Article Pract . When I lived in SF, I visited the shop a couple of times. I can't recall if I ever bought anything, but they have a great selection of well known and lesser known brands of yarn. They also do special orders. All in all it is a cute little shop with a decent amount of sale items and a lovely variety of needles at really good prices. It was the first store where I saw Crystal Palace's new Daisy needles. They come in very pretty colors. I bought a pair of 10 3/4 needles that were two shades of pink. The gal at the shop said she didn't like them as much as bamboo, but I wanted to give them a go, plus they are so cute it was hard to resist. I'll post the picture later. I also purchased a skein of Lamb's Pride Bulky Yarn in Tiger Lily and a set of Pony double pointed needles for socks. Tiger Lily is beautiful and it isn't a color I would typically gravitate towards. I started a scarf with it using a wavy rib pattern. While there I also bought two row counters. They were only $1.95 each. The same row counters can go for as much as 4 bucks in other stores so I quickly snatched them. Anyway, I am really excited about my purchases.
While away, I did manage to get back to the point where I made the mistake on my sleeves, so there was some movement on the sweater. Here are my priorities for next week:
1. Finish Wavy Scarf
2. Make progress on sleeves of shawl collar sweater
3. Complete my report of work in Oakland
4. Edit at least two assignments
5. Rake up residual leaves and trim rose bushes
6. Continue to work on baby sweater
It's good to be home!
Friday, February 04, 2005
Thursday, February 03, 2005
Random Day: blog, dog, TSH, finally knitting
Well, lots to share today. I'm officially a member of the Purling Puppy webring! It's my very first foray into the world of webrings. Now I just need to figure out how to get the button above the type. There are so many interesting knitting related webrings out there. When I'm less busy I must explore!
Another blog/knitting related thing that happened...I asked my dear friend Jimmy Chan (www.topsoildesign.com) to send me a soft copy of the birthday card he made for me a couple of years ago. It was a cartoon image of me surrounded by yarn. Now if only I could figure out how to make it a fixture on the top of my blog. I'll get on it.
My fluffy pup went to get groomed for the first time. Had to drop her off at 8am and pick her up at 1pm. Takes a long time huh? But the only thing is, she looks like a boy now. Waahh! Gave me flashbacks of the time I was mistaken for a boy 'cuz my mom chopped off my hair. Very traumatic when I was five years old. Anyway, it took some time to get used to Kokona's new do, but she's always beautiful to me. I'll post a picture soon.
While my pup was getting her tresses chopped off, I sent my Secret Pal a package via the handy dandy USPS. It was one of the rare occasions where there was no line. Hallelujah! I think I like giving gifts a little more than receiving them, so I'm very excited for her to receive her package. I hope she likes her goodies.
I also found out that my TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is above the normal range, so that took me off track to research it. Very frustrated because it was on the high end of normal 2 years ago and should have been checked again earlier. The doctors always said it was normal and that's all we lay people want to hear, but apparently there's normal for those not trying to have a baby and then normal for those trying to have a baby. To top it off, high TSH could cause miscarriages. Makes me wonder about my miscarriage in 2003. Oh well, deep breaths, everything happens for a reason. Gotta keep the faith. A good friend from college called. She tried for nearly 3 or so years to have a baby and finally got pregnant and had her boy last November. It hasn't been easy for her, he's kind of on the fussy end of the spectrum and cries incessantly. She's tried to leave him be, but he'll cry until the Lord comes! She said she found herself wishing he were older, but then caught herself because she realized what a blessing he is and that she really should cherish all the days even if it feels as if she's not going to make it. Gave me pause, I should cherish all the time I have with Ken to go out on a whim, catch a movie (though we've only seen one at a theater since last June), take a road trip, etc...
On the knitting front, I completed the left front of the baby cardigan! Now if only I were more motivated to fix my sleeves... Might engage in some shop therapy because I still haven't purchased the Mission Falls yarn I need to finish my MIL's scarf. It will be past winter by the time she gets it. Yikes. As long as I'm buying one skein, I might buy enough of another color to make yet another baby sweater. The cheapest I've found online is $4.45. Not bad, my LYS sells it for $6.60! Can't make an impulse purchase, so gotta think about it...
Another blog/knitting related thing that happened...I asked my dear friend Jimmy Chan (www.topsoildesign.com) to send me a soft copy of the birthday card he made for me a couple of years ago. It was a cartoon image of me surrounded by yarn. Now if only I could figure out how to make it a fixture on the top of my blog. I'll get on it.
My fluffy pup went to get groomed for the first time. Had to drop her off at 8am and pick her up at 1pm. Takes a long time huh? But the only thing is, she looks like a boy now. Waahh! Gave me flashbacks of the time I was mistaken for a boy 'cuz my mom chopped off my hair. Very traumatic when I was five years old. Anyway, it took some time to get used to Kokona's new do, but she's always beautiful to me. I'll post a picture soon.
While my pup was getting her tresses chopped off, I sent my Secret Pal a package via the handy dandy USPS. It was one of the rare occasions where there was no line. Hallelujah! I think I like giving gifts a little more than receiving them, so I'm very excited for her to receive her package. I hope she likes her goodies.
I also found out that my TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is above the normal range, so that took me off track to research it. Very frustrated because it was on the high end of normal 2 years ago and should have been checked again earlier. The doctors always said it was normal and that's all we lay people want to hear, but apparently there's normal for those not trying to have a baby and then normal for those trying to have a baby. To top it off, high TSH could cause miscarriages. Makes me wonder about my miscarriage in 2003. Oh well, deep breaths, everything happens for a reason. Gotta keep the faith. A good friend from college called. She tried for nearly 3 or so years to have a baby and finally got pregnant and had her boy last November. It hasn't been easy for her, he's kind of on the fussy end of the spectrum and cries incessantly. She's tried to leave him be, but he'll cry until the Lord comes! She said she found herself wishing he were older, but then caught herself because she realized what a blessing he is and that she really should cherish all the days even if it feels as if she's not going to make it. Gave me pause, I should cherish all the time I have with Ken to go out on a whim, catch a movie (though we've only seen one at a theater since last June), take a road trip, etc...
On the knitting front, I completed the left front of the baby cardigan! Now if only I were more motivated to fix my sleeves... Might engage in some shop therapy because I still haven't purchased the Mission Falls yarn I need to finish my MIL's scarf. It will be past winter by the time she gets it. Yikes. As long as I'm buying one skein, I might buy enough of another color to make yet another baby sweater. The cheapest I've found online is $4.45. Not bad, my LYS sells it for $6.60! Can't make an impulse purchase, so gotta think about it...
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Back on Fire and Itching to Spend
With the start of my participation in Secret Pals 4, I've renewed my daily habit of knitting. Though I'm busy with deadlines and prep for my trip to Oakland to train teachers, I've found time to knit a bit more. Last night I started one side of the baby cardigan from Debbie Bliss's Baby Knits for Beginnings and in under two hours (through Idol and Amazing Race with trips to the computer during commercial breaks) I did about 5 inches of knitting. Shaping is just around the corner, gotta love that about baby sweaters.
Yesterday I received a catalog from Knit Picks and am quite intrigued. I really really should not buy more yarn until I reduce my box and I have quite a bit of projects in the queue... but I'd love to try their stuff out for another baby blanket because the prices are amazing! I'll think on it today. UGH! This is why I need FT and steady work...to feed the yarn addiction. But on the other hand, Pup's at the window looking back at me with those sweet eyes. Ah, it's so nice to work from home because puppy kisses are the best. How can I leave her all day? What kind of mischief would she get into without me supervising?
Yesterday I received a catalog from Knit Picks and am quite intrigued. I really really should not buy more yarn until I reduce my box and I have quite a bit of projects in the queue... but I'd love to try their stuff out for another baby blanket because the prices are amazing! I'll think on it today. UGH! This is why I need FT and steady work...to feed the yarn addiction. But on the other hand, Pup's at the window looking back at me with those sweet eyes. Ah, it's so nice to work from home because puppy kisses are the best. How can I leave her all day? What kind of mischief would she get into without me supervising?
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Secret Pal, Sleeve Status, Naughty Dog
I met my Secret Pal yesterday (I received an email and an e-card!) and we both agree that our match was meant to be. She's been very encouraging and I look forward to getting to know her these next few weeks. Thanks Pal!
The person I'm a pal for works at a yarn shop! Tres cool. I'm working on what to send her for package #1. Might make my way to Acorn Street later today, but seeing as she works at a yarn shop, I might get her other goodies for Valentine's Day.
My weekly knitting group met last night. It was nice to catch up with everyone. I made more progress on my sleeves, 'cept I discovered another boo-boo. Gotta rip apart a few rows. I decided to try knitting the two sleeves at the same time. Well on one of the decrease rows, I only decreased once on each sleeve. I guess I was thinking it was one piece b/c I did the first decrease on one sleeve and the last decrease on the other! Oh well...
Kona has been naughty lately. Testing as a teenager (she's 8 months old) does, I suppose. I discovered that the baby blanket I made was unraveling at one edge b/c she has been biting at it!
Off to finish up my work and plan for my trip to Oakland next week. More later.
The person I'm a pal for works at a yarn shop! Tres cool. I'm working on what to send her for package #1. Might make my way to Acorn Street later today, but seeing as she works at a yarn shop, I might get her other goodies for Valentine's Day.
My weekly knitting group met last night. It was nice to catch up with everyone. I made more progress on my sleeves, 'cept I discovered another boo-boo. Gotta rip apart a few rows. I decided to try knitting the two sleeves at the same time. Well on one of the decrease rows, I only decreased once on each sleeve. I guess I was thinking it was one piece b/c I did the first decrease on one sleeve and the last decrease on the other! Oh well...
Kona has been naughty lately. Testing as a teenager (she's 8 months old) does, I suppose. I discovered that the baby blanket I made was unraveling at one edge b/c she has been biting at it!
Off to finish up my work and plan for my trip to Oakland next week. More later.
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Feeling More @ Peace
Thus far, I have not written about our battle with infertility. It was just not something I wanted to be part of this fun and happy blog. But today is different. So we went to this Presentation Sunday service dedicated to infertile couples (http://www.cedarpark.org/infertile/) and it was actually quite moving. I guess the church has been doing it for about 17 years and they have had at least 285 births from this service. We sat in front of a couple who went to the service two years ago. They came all the to WA from NY after seeing the chuch featured on TV. Anyway after 12 years of trying to conceive, they had a baby that first year after they came for prayer so they returned to present their baby and ask for prayer for a second. The service was just a whole lot of couples presenting their babies that were the result of prayer. Some adopted, some got pregnant after being told they could never bare children, some got pregnant after many IUIs or IVF cycles. I was especially amazed by one woman who tried everything, several IUI and IVF cycles, then went to egg doners and had those eggs implanted w/o success, then used donated eggs on a surrogate, and in the end she became pregnant. Whether you are religious, spiritual, believe in one God and Christ as your savior or not, please pray for us. We have a sense of peace and believe that God will bless us with a pregnancy that results in a live birth if we are more faithful in prayer.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
sEcREt PaLs 4: wHo aM i?
Dear Secret Pal,
I want to say before we even start: THANK YOU! I look forward to getting to know you and guessing at who you might be. I'm new to blogging as you can see. I will try my best to learn how to make my sidebar look better and hold more stuff. Let me know if you have specific questions for me. :)
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer high-end/natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you? I wouldn’t say it’s all the same to me. I prefer to buy good quality yarn, but I also don’t like to pay an arm & a leg. I usually buy from elann.com or look out for sales at my LYS. I have purchased from Michaels/JoAnns for mass producing scarves around the holidays. I usually double strand a nice high quality novelty yarn with a decent quality wool or wool blend that isn’t quite as pricey or vice versa depending. If it’s a really special present that won’t take much yarn (i.e. a baby sweater), I’ll pay for the good stuff. 2. Do you spin? Crochet? I’m a crochet beginner. Would love to learn more as time permits.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.) No, to all, but I hate the smell of cigarettes.
4. How long have you been knitting? My paternal grandmother taught me when I was around 11 or 12, but I didn’t get really into it until three or so years ago. I consider myself an intermediate beginner. I still shy away from really complicated patterns, but am making my first cardigan for me.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes to Amazon, but have not updated it in ages. Will do it after this…
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) I have many: lavender, citrus, jasmine, and lemon verbena.
7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Yes, love sour candies covered in that sour powder, but I’m trying to cut down on sugar, especially refined sugar. Not good for trying to conceive, so they say…
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I like to bead with semi-precious/czech glass. I have dabbled in stamping, sewing, and would like to start scrapbook making, but gotta focus on the outstanding knitting projects lying around the house. My husband and I painted the most of the rooms in our little house together and I might paint my kitchen a deep purple in the spring. We just bought our house last spring and moved here in the summer, so I need to get into gardening. So far all I’ve done is weed.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like cheesy love songs. Air Supply, Whitney, Celine… I also listen to Christian music. No MP3, but can play CDs no problem.
10. What's your favorite color? I’m Asian, so black works well on me, but I love light greens and all shades of purple. I’m also a fan of deep reds like cranberry. Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer?
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I will be married for 5 years on 5/21! We have no children yet, but have been trying for the last 2.5 years. We hope to be blessed soon. On the bright side we have a darling 8 month old puppy named Kona. She’s been such a joy to me.
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know) Hmm…it’s to have a content & humble life without regrets…to hold a baby that’s mine regardless of whether I adopt or give birth…to travel to as many countries and experience as many cultures as I can…
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I like knitting with wool, esp. merino wool. I especially like Cashmerino by Debbie Bliss, but it’s expensive. I like Cascade 220 too. But I’m not terribly picky right now… I have a huge box of yarn that I’ve collected over the years. I need to use those up before I buy more.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Can’t think of any now.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s? Well if I were truly obsessed, I suppose I’d be done with my shawl collered sweater. I have lots of little things going on, but my freelance work has kept me from knitting as much as I did before.
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I love knitting baby sweaters though I’ve only made three so far.
17. What are you knitting right now? I have the following projects going: a baby sweater, a shawl, a scarf, a lacey scarf (those are hard to undo), and my sweater.
18. What do you think about ponchos? I don’t own one, almost bought one recently, but thought I could knit one so didn’t. In short, I like ‘em.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? I use both.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I much prefer bamboo. When my grandmother (who came from China to live with us) taught me she used needles she whittled from chopsticks b/c she wasn’t used to the aluminum ones we bought her. So I started on bamboo chopsticks whittled down my my NaiNai. Gosh I wish I still had a pair.
21. Are you a sock knitter? No, but it’s on my list of things to learn b/c my friend gave me sock yarn 2 years ago that I’ve started and ripped apart more than a couple of times. It’s the cool kind that knits up into a pattern.
22. How did you learn to knit? From my grandmother at first. Then about three years ago, I was visiting a friend and she was making baby hats. I just had to learn how to make hats. I was intrigued by the double pointed needles.
23. How old is your oldest UFO? A shawl with kidmohair for my mom. I started it X’mas 2002. 24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird? Can’t say I have one. I like Disney characters. Snow White I guess b/c I was engaged at Snow White’s Grotto in Disneyland.
25. What is your favorite holiday? I love Thanksgiving and Christmas.
26. Is there anything that you collect? Tea pots (usuable ones, not decorative ones) and sea glass.
I want to say before we even start: THANK YOU! I look forward to getting to know you and guessing at who you might be. I'm new to blogging as you can see. I will try my best to learn how to make my sidebar look better and hold more stuff. Let me know if you have specific questions for me. :)
1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer high-end/natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you? I wouldn’t say it’s all the same to me. I prefer to buy good quality yarn, but I also don’t like to pay an arm & a leg. I usually buy from elann.com or look out for sales at my LYS. I have purchased from Michaels/JoAnns for mass producing scarves around the holidays. I usually double strand a nice high quality novelty yarn with a decent quality wool or wool blend that isn’t quite as pricey or vice versa depending. If it’s a really special present that won’t take much yarn (i.e. a baby sweater), I’ll pay for the good stuff. 2. Do you spin? Crochet? I’m a crochet beginner. Would love to learn more as time permits.
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.) No, to all, but I hate the smell of cigarettes.
4. How long have you been knitting? My paternal grandmother taught me when I was around 11 or 12, but I didn’t get really into it until three or so years ago. I consider myself an intermediate beginner. I still shy away from really complicated patterns, but am making my first cardigan for me.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Yes to Amazon, but have not updated it in ages. Will do it after this…
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) I have many: lavender, citrus, jasmine, and lemon verbena.
7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Yes, love sour candies covered in that sour powder, but I’m trying to cut down on sugar, especially refined sugar. Not good for trying to conceive, so they say…
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I like to bead with semi-precious/czech glass. I have dabbled in stamping, sewing, and would like to start scrapbook making, but gotta focus on the outstanding knitting projects lying around the house. My husband and I painted the most of the rooms in our little house together and I might paint my kitchen a deep purple in the spring. We just bought our house last spring and moved here in the summer, so I need to get into gardening. So far all I’ve done is weed.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like cheesy love songs. Air Supply, Whitney, Celine… I also listen to Christian music. No MP3, but can play CDs no problem.
10. What's your favorite color? I’m Asian, so black works well on me, but I love light greens and all shades of purple. I’m also a fan of deep reds like cranberry. Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer?
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I will be married for 5 years on 5/21! We have no children yet, but have been trying for the last 2.5 years. We hope to be blessed soon. On the bright side we have a darling 8 month old puppy named Kona. She’s been such a joy to me.
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know) Hmm…it’s to have a content & humble life without regrets…to hold a baby that’s mine regardless of whether I adopt or give birth…to travel to as many countries and experience as many cultures as I can…
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I like knitting with wool, esp. merino wool. I especially like Cashmerino by Debbie Bliss, but it’s expensive. I like Cascade 220 too. But I’m not terribly picky right now… I have a huge box of yarn that I’ve collected over the years. I need to use those up before I buy more.
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Can’t think of any now.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s? Well if I were truly obsessed, I suppose I’d be done with my shawl collered sweater. I have lots of little things going on, but my freelance work has kept me from knitting as much as I did before.
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I love knitting baby sweaters though I’ve only made three so far.
17. What are you knitting right now? I have the following projects going: a baby sweater, a shawl, a scarf, a lacey scarf (those are hard to undo), and my sweater.
18. What do you think about ponchos? I don’t own one, almost bought one recently, but thought I could knit one so didn’t. In short, I like ‘em.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? I use both.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I much prefer bamboo. When my grandmother (who came from China to live with us) taught me she used needles she whittled from chopsticks b/c she wasn’t used to the aluminum ones we bought her. So I started on bamboo chopsticks whittled down my my NaiNai. Gosh I wish I still had a pair.
21. Are you a sock knitter? No, but it’s on my list of things to learn b/c my friend gave me sock yarn 2 years ago that I’ve started and ripped apart more than a couple of times. It’s the cool kind that knits up into a pattern.
22. How did you learn to knit? From my grandmother at first. Then about three years ago, I was visiting a friend and she was making baby hats. I just had to learn how to make hats. I was intrigued by the double pointed needles.
23. How old is your oldest UFO? A shawl with kidmohair for my mom. I started it X’mas 2002. 24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird? Can’t say I have one. I like Disney characters. Snow White I guess b/c I was engaged at Snow White’s Grotto in Disneyland.
25. What is your favorite holiday? I love Thanksgiving and Christmas.
26. Is there anything that you collect? Tea pots (usuable ones, not decorative ones) and sea glass.
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Back Home & Back to Routines
After being away for nearly three weeks, we made it home safely last Wednesday night, but not without a speeding ticket! Ken was just thinking that it was amazing that we drove over 3000 miles without a ticket and then just as we crossed the border from OR to WA, the patrol car spun around and stopped us. The officer logged 68 mph in a 55 mph zone. I was thinking that in parts of CA the speed limit is 70 mph and when we were in NM visiting my in-laws the speed limit was 75 mph! What's 68 mph? Guess it does not make it okay. The officer felt sorry for us or something so he knocked the speed to 65 so it did not fall in the more than 10 miles above limit category.
I did do some knitting while away, but not as much as I had planned. The front left panel of my cardigan gave me some stress, so I just put it down and didn't pick it up until last night's knitting group. The pattern did NOT spell out the directions for the left. Simply said to reverse directions for the right and add buttonholes. Makes it harder for this beginner of cardigans. Last night at my knitting group I did manage to figure out what I was doing wrong, so I'm back on track. While away I did manage to start a scarf for my mother-in-law, but ran out of one of the yarns. I was doublestranding and miscalculated. So I have to go pick up some more Mission Falls 1824 wool. Hopefully I'll just walk past other stuff when I go to the store...
I did do some knitting while away, but not as much as I had planned. The front left panel of my cardigan gave me some stress, so I just put it down and didn't pick it up until last night's knitting group. The pattern did NOT spell out the directions for the left. Simply said to reverse directions for the right and add buttonholes. Makes it harder for this beginner of cardigans. Last night at my knitting group I did manage to figure out what I was doing wrong, so I'm back on track. While away I did manage to start a scarf for my mother-in-law, but ran out of one of the yarns. I was doublestranding and miscalculated. So I have to go pick up some more Mission Falls 1824 wool. Hopefully I'll just walk past other stuff when I go to the store...
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Long Road Trip
We left for our old home last Thursday with our pup Kona in tow. Despite our late start (we left around 8:20 a.m. and arrived in SF at 10 p.m) we made good time. There was a scary patch in near Shasta, but we weathered it. Kona did great on the trip, she slept for most of it. I meant to knit during the ride, but never got to it. I ended up snoozing and enjoying the scenery. SF was rushed so I didn't get to go to any yarn shops. On Monday, we drove on down to LA to visit my mother and brothers. The ride down was an adventure too. Again no knitting. The Grapevine (I-5 between Bakersfield and northern LA county) was shut down due to ice and snow. Our detour took us about 2 hours out of the way, but again we made it. Kona did fine. She went potty on the grounds of the famous Madonna Inn. They were featured on the Travel Channel's episode on Top 10 bathrooms. Don't remember which number they were but we thought we'd stop by. The Men's Room contains a huge fountain for a urinal. Water flows as men pee. Pretty funny. Funnier is that I went in to see it when my husband gave me the all clear. We leave for NM tomorrow to visit the in-laws and I will for sure get knitting done there, so more from the road later.
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