Happenings In My Life

Simplicity

2012-02-10T15:46:00.000-05:00

Winter landscapes are unique and beautiful in their own way. They show things that are only seen in the winter. The rocks which are covered in the summer standout in contrast to the ground. The skeletons of the bushes have a beauty all their own; there is simplicity to the landscape that is not there in the warmer months.

The same can be said about knitting. There is the simplicity in a plain knit stitch that becomes a blanket to warm a loved one. There is beauty in a simple shawl that is knit with a variegated hand dyed yarn. The yarn brings the shawl to life, just as the spring will bring life to the skeletons of the bushes. Appreciate the yarn in the hank, it is beautiful by itself, just like the winter landscape. It will bloom as you knit it into a beautiful object.

Knitting centers you, it can be done any where and at almost any time. Some may look at you funny when you are knitting, but they don't know the peace and joy that comes with this simple act.

Knitting can only bring joy to the person it is done for. We may wish we had never started a project, but it is funny how we keep on and complete it, finding that in the end it was worth it. This is not to say there are not some things that need to be tinked, and this may in it self bring joy, knowing that the yarn will go to another project.

Knitting helps us get through not only the winter months, but those times of stress or hardship in our lives.

I simply ask that anyone who reads this will pray for my brother, Chip, the Leukemia has come back and he is back on Chemo. Thank you

The Sun

2012-01-15T15:06:00.001-05:00

The sun is farthest away from us in the winter time, which is why it is suppose to be so cold. Global warming I hate you. I like the sun in the winter time. it lights our bare landscape with a brightness you don't find in Summer. The sun coming through the bay window is cheerful and begs me to come sit for a while and read.

The reflections and shadows of winter are lacy because of the bareness of the branches. They remind me of so many of the shawls I knit and make me want to knit another lace shawl or finish one I have started.

This same sun is a Summer sun in the Southern Hemisphere which is enjoying the flowers and leaves, and balmy breezes of summer. It 's reflections are different and call for a laziness rather than a warm comfort.

The sun's partner, the moon, also shines on a different landscape in the winter. When it snows and we are lucky enough to have a full moon the reflection off the snow is breathtaking. With the morning, the ice and snow covered branches reflect a startling and beautiful brilliance, not found at any other time of the year. Summer may have its' rainbows, but I will take a sun filled winter day any time of the year.

Reflections On The Last Year

2011-12-28T20:29:00.000-05:00

It has been a year of change. Catherine (our youngest) bought a house in Germantown, going to settlement on September 15. She moved in December 10. The house is beautiful now and all the hard work was worth it, the money kept flowing out, but that to was worth it. We are now empty nesters.

Not only are we Empty Nesters, but Darby is retiring in 2 days. I don't know how I feel about this. While having him home more may be a good thing, having him at home more is also going to change my life, I don't know if I am ready for that change. I will still go to knitting on Wednesdays, that is set in stone, nothing changes that. I am hoping that we will travel more and we do have a cruise booked that will probably take place in 2013. We have also talked of taking a trip to Ireland, I hope he still wants that. My husband can be a stick in the mud sometimes. I want to travel, but getting him out may prove to be a challenge.

I have scheduled an appointment with my counselor for tomorrow, I think I need to talk some of this out. Things have been stressful and taking peoples heads of is not in my best interest.

Everyone we have talked to, who has retired says it is great. Then again they are not married to my husband. Don't get me wrong I love him, but!

My blog seems to be rather negative wouldn't you say, and I am not a negative person. This coming year will be different and will mean changes for both of us. I just ask for your prayers and hope that by the time I post again my attitude will have gotten better.

I wish everyone a Wonderful and Prosperous New Year!!!

I Want The Cool Weather Back

2011-10-05T17:51:00.002-04:00

Not much to say, except we are still working on Catherine's house, it is becoming a little more expensive then we thought. Every time you turn around there is another charge or thing that has to be paid for. Welcome to Home ownership my dear. I yearn for the fall colors and cool air all the time, not just at night.

Remember October is Breast Cancer awareness month, so remember to wear pink in support of all those with breast cancer. We can beat this thing.

I just went to the Doctor's yesterday and was told that this ongoing back pain is because of my Fibromyalgia which is making everything worse. What has made the Fibro worse is the Accident 2 years ago, I am still paying for that and it wasn't our fault.

This is fall to me, I want to be right there.

I may feel overwhelmed and tired, but I have to remember God is there with me all the time!!

Paradise Disney Style

2011-09-18T14:24:00.009-04:00

Paradise is many different things to many different people. But I was on a little piece of Paradise this past week. My friend Louise booked she and I on a cruise in January and then told me we were going. She said she booked it so far in advance so I had the time to pay for my share and not have to rely on Darby. It was absolutely wonderful, hot, but wonderful. Disney is the only cruise line I will ever use. It is perfection, they make you feel like royalty.

From Disney Cruise

The ship is a work of art. The light fixtures are literally commissioned glass works of art. There is space galore and you never feel crowded. There are all types of paintings (some animated), sculptures, and Mosaic scenes all over the ship (it is not a boat, but a ship). Disney ships are reminiscent of the old ocean liners of yesteryear. They are big, beautiful and no matter what price you paid, very luxuries.

From Disney Cruise

The shows are Broadway quality and never disappoint.

The food is beyond compare. Each night is like dinning in a high end restaurant on land. The service is impeccable and your choices are many.

From Disney Cruise

Our room was beautiful, with a veranda and of course wonderful views of the ocean.

From Disney Cruise

Each night there were shows to attend, first run movies and the lounges were great. Evolution is a bar that has different themed nights and great shows. The com median we saw had us rolling in the aisle.

There is a bar called Skylines that makes you feel you are in a roof top lounge in some of the worlds most beautiful cities. Not only does the skyline change, but the artwork changes for each city.

From Disney Cruise

The best lounge is Pink, where you are suppose to be in a Champagne bottle. As I said before the lights are works of art. The main light sculpture looks like champagne bottles, and the smaller lights look like champagne glasses. The walls are covered with round glowing balls that look like champagne bubbles. The champagne drinks are wonderful and the champagne is exclusive for Disney. I was going to purchase a bottle until I saw that it was $96.00 for one bottle.

From Disney Cruise

Nassau in the Bahamas is OK. It has a Straw Market, that is full of native people selling anything and everything for a steal. There were tons of "Coach" bags, "Louie Vitton" bags and "Cartier" watches. My father had told me you have to bargain and he was right. The things may not be genuine, but they are close enough and the price is unbelievable. I was able to pick up a tennis bracelet for a steal at a jewelry store that is sanctioned by Disney.

From Disney Cruise

Unless you like to gamble at Atlantis there is not much to do but touristy things. Most people who have taken more then one cruise usually don't get off the boat here.

The next day is Castaway Cay(pronounced key). This is truly paradise. The water is the deepest blue I have ever seen and sitting on the beach with you feet in the water is heaven. There are no waves, the water is clear, shallow and warm. There is a man walking along the beach taking orders for Conch Coolers, what could be better.

From Disney Cruise

Our last night we had our picture taken with the Captain and our wonderful servers.

From Disney Cruise

You don't want to leave, but you have to. I can't wait for the cruise I booked for Darby and I to the Western Caribbean. It will be seven days of heaven. I will leave you with pictures of some of the Characters around the ship. See if you can tell what movie they are from.

From Disney Cruise

Perfection

2011-07-16T16:48:00.004-04:00

Perfection-Websters defines perfection as the freedom from fault or defect. A very high goal to achieve if it is truly possible. We all have tried to be perfect at least once in our lives, whether we achieved that goal or not is unknown.
As a new wife I wanted everything to be perfect that first Thanksgiving, since we were hosting both families. Guess what, it was wonderful, but not perfect. When we moved into a new home and had our first child, I was still trying for perfection, at least where the house was concerned. I knew I was doing the best I could raising our son, but of course my mother said I was to lenient and his mother said I was to hard, in the end I hope we hit a happy medium. Both our son and daughter seem to be well adjusted outstanding young people. Other than our two families, every one else thought our children were wonderful.
Perfection creeps into all our lives. I strove to be Martha Stewart until I realized I was much happier being just me, plus I didn’t have the staff or the time she does. I have a husband and children to fill my life. I still like her, but don’t want to be her.
When I first started knitting I did not strive for perfection. I just wanted to learn how and each mistake had a lesson. Now I will unknit or frog a project but only if the mistake is glaring. If only I know it is there, I look at this as making the piece unique and all mine. I have also learned to do this in the rest of my life. At the moment we are replacing the decking on our front porch and the railing. My husband was getting a little frustrated until I told him, nothing is perfect in life, just like those decking boards aren’t perfect. He still strove for the perfect spacing and the straightest edge, but also commented that we woul have to live with some of the spacing, because it was the best he could do. That is all any of us can try for.
So next time you are knitting that sweater and you make a mistake, ask yourself, will anyone know it is there, if they will, correct it. If not, it makes this sweater uniquetly yours.

Airport Greeting

2011-06-26T23:16:00.001-04:00

Airport Greeting, a photo by darbysusan on Flickr.

Knoxville Where Do I Start

2011-06-26T23:12:00.003-04:00

I recently visited my friend Louise in Knoxville, TN, she is there for her job with State Farm. I was greeted at the airport with this beautiful miniature of the Great Smokey Mountains.

What a wonderful way to begin my trip.

Louise is there because of severe Hail storms they had, but this is a sign I have never seen before. They are giving anywhere from $10,000. to $13,000 off on cars.

My first day there we visited MeMaws Thimble a wonderful quilt shop with the most wonderful and beautiful fabrics. Louise and I did some damage to our check books there.
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On Saturday we drove to downtown and saw the Golden Globe which is what is left from the Worlds Fair exhibition. We ran into a storm so our pictures are not so great. We could use the rain up here.

Our Saturday night was spent on a river boat sailing the Tennesse River and having dinner.

Here is our reservation and dinner.

Here are some of the sights we saw, the one is just the boat house, the house is behind it on the hill.

On Sunday we drove to Nashville, TN and on the way discovered this art camp.

This piece was called Quantum Confusion How Many Worlds. It was very striking and made you think.

These are some of the art pieces that were for sale, some of them were amazing.

We finally pulled into the Opry Land Hotel complex, this place is amazing and everything is housed under a huge glass roof. We walked around through each section and had lunch. We also took a boat ride around the Delta section. The surroundings are breathtaking. There are waterfalls everywhere and the most amazing flowers you have ever seen.

My final day there we visited The Knitters Nest, the perfect yarn shop, plenty of room, an area with sofas to sit and knit, and the friendliest people.

At the airport you are greeted by this darling sculpture, a fitting good bye to a wonderful weekend with a wonderful friend.

Just A Quick Post

2011-05-18T14:33:00.002-04:00

I finished my Traveling Woman Shawl and just love it. I also have finished the shawl for my Mom's 79th birthday. It is a modification of a Stephen West Colonade.

I was looking out the window yesterday and saw our friendly neighborhood squirrel, who usually only shows up in the Winter. I wondered why he had come onto the deck, today I found out. He is digging in my flower pots. He is either going to be dead or I am going to have to buy some squirrel repelant. He better watch out.

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-08T18:34:00.002-04:00

It was a lovely Mothers Day weekend. I was able to go to Maryland Sheep and Wool, had a wonderful time. I was very wise with my money, but got some beautiful things.

We went to dinner at the Shamrock with my parents, a good friend and our beautiful daughter. Our food was wonderful and the company was fantastic.

I am very busy sewing and have promised my daughter a dress. She reminded me she had paid $70 for material and she would like her dress by July. Is she trying to tell me something?
Here are the rest of the pictures of my finds, I love the hat, I got it for the Cruise that Louise and I are taking in September.

The fiber is 100% baby Mohair I can't wait to spin.

The sock yarn is for a shawl and the purple yarn I don't know what I am going to do with. The T-Shirt and bag are mementos.

All in all it was a wonderful weekend.

He Is Risen Happy Easter

2011-04-23T12:58:00.005-04:00

My uncle posted this on his Facebook page and find it very appropriate for Easter:

I think that I shall never see,
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest,
Against the sweet earth's flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in summer wear,
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.
Trees, by Joyce Kilmer

I remember in fourth or fifth grade at Visitation Academy our Choral teacher setting this to music and having us sing it. Every thing we have and everything we are is from God. We need to lift our arms in prayer and look at God at least once in our busy day. It is the least we can do, after what Jesus has done for us.

I know a little rain must fall in our lives, but this is getting ridiculous. Will we ever see that big yellow ball in the sky again.
We need the rain but let's keep some for this summer.

I am almost finished my Mom's birthday shawl, I did it in Knit Picks Chroma worsted, I was a little concerned about the color, it is rather bright. I feel better, because last week my Mom showed me a dress in orange and she said she loved the color, so she should like this, it is Smoothie, a mixture of orange, pink, peach, etc.

I may go to Maryland Sheep and Wool this year, depending on the weather. I don't have any money, but I would like to go at least once. I read about a spinning class they were having before the show, but it was $150.00 which I can't spare right now.

I find as the weather gets warmer I still want to knit, but have trouble finding light weight things to do. I have at least three shawls going right now, I think I need something new. I will try socks.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter and that warm weather soon appears.

Is This An April Fools Joke

2011-04-01T20:41:00.002-04:00

It is April 1, I remember as a child many an April 1st going down to the creek and looking for tadpoles. It was warm and spring was here. Where has spring gone. These industrial countries, including ours, is ruining our environment and our seasons. I long for warm weather, not hot just warm. I want to see flowers and hear lawn mowers. Ah well we can dream

I am still working on my Buttercup top, it is taking forever, I don't think I will ever knit a top in sock yarn again. I may try a pair of socks they should be quick and I can say I finished something.

I am getting very excited about my cruise in September, and anxious to make up some pretty dresses to wear. I have finally, I think. learned the ins and outs of my pattern software. I am going to try a plain material and embroider some motifs on it. This will mean I need to buy extra material in case of mistakes.

Here is to warmer weather, is there a dance we can do.

An Essay of Sorts

2011-03-21T16:14:00.002-04:00

As I was out doing errands today I passed an intersection where a man was standing with a hand made sign. I don't know exactly what the sign said, but I am sure it was something about being homeless and hungry, many say thank you and God Bless. This got me to thinking.

We just finished studying Matthew in Bible Study and one of the sayings of Jesus was that at the end times the sheep and the goats would be separated in to two groups. The sheep were the ones who clothed those without clothes, and fed the hungry, etc. The goats were the ones who had not taken care of Jesus's helpless ones. They asked Jesus when did we see you naked and not cloth you or hungry and not feed you. Jesus's reply to them was when one of the least of my flock needed something you were to help them and you didn't. I know I am paraphrasing here, but I hope you get the message.

How often do we see people such as this gentlemen and drive right past because we are doing something we are not to do. We are judging, we say if I give him money he will just go and buy liquor or drugs. This is judging, Jesus asks us to cloth, feed and protect the least of His flock, not judge what they are going to do with what we have given them, only God can truly judge.

We have so complicated Jesus' message that do we even know what His message is. We are to love one another as we love ourselves or we are to love one another as Jesus loves us. Jesus loves all of us, he may not like us sometimes but He always loves us, we are to do the same.
It gives us all something to think about, especially at this time of year. We are reminded of what Jesus did for us, how He suffered and died so that we may live forever in Hid Kingdom. It was popular many years ago to wear bracelets or Tshirts with WWJD (what would Jesus do), I think we all need to keep that in our minds when we go to do something.

Give without thinking, thinking just muddies the waters. Give freely and without judgement. So you can be a sheep and not a Goat.

Lacy Trees

2011-03-17T18:07:00.002-04:00

No I am not writing about knitting trees in lace, I am talking about the look of the trees as Spring slowly unfolds. I drove to Hagerstown, MD today and the mountains had a kind of lacy look to them.

If you look closely the buds are just ready to burst open. They say the Cherry Blossoms will be early this year. I have never gone down, because of the crowds, but have occasionally seem them along the George Washington Parkway. My trees are starting to get that lacy look, and the forsythia are starting to bloom.

I am also having to watch for birds wanting to build their nests everywhere they are not suppose to. Their songs are pretty and really announce spring, I believe the official first day of spring is Sunday, with Monday being the first full day. What a lovely birthday present for my daughter Catherine.

Spring has got to be my favorite time of year. That short period where it is about 70 to 75 degrees, low humidity and a slight breeze. We always seem to go from that nice balmy day to summer around here. One day it is cold, the next balmy and the next summer.

Enjoy the spring, the flowers and Easter. We will to soon be in heat and humidity.

Winter Is Still Here

2011-02-22T11:40:00.003-05:00

This is the scene out my back door. I think it is beautiful, of course I like the cold and snow. If we can't have green and flowers, the snow makes everything look pretty

The 70 degree weather was nice, but we all knew it couldn't last. The birds are singing outside and the sun is bright. I am also sneezing, which means spring is surely on its way.

I have finally gotten my sewing room together, with the beautiful new daybed and the cherry floors. I know it looks a little messy,but then I am using it.

My wonderful husband helped put the daybed together and of course he did the painting and the floor. I love it and hope to spend many hours there. The bed is so comfortable, I want to sleep when I sit on it. That doesn't help me get much work done.

I am starting now to prepare for my cruise with my best friend Louise, we are going on the Disney Dream in September, I can't wait.

Our group in Mt. Airy are going on a field trip to Fiber Space in Alexandria VA tomorrow, can't wait for that either.

With Darby retiring at the end of December, the only thing that will not change is Wednesday knitting. The snow this winter has kept him home, telecommuting so I am getting a taste of what it will be like to have him home all the time. I hope we can do some things, especially travel.

That is about all there is to catch you up on. Enjoy the snow, while you can. Remember this nice cool weather when we have 90 to 100 degree days this summer.

Today

2011-01-19T18:56:00.002-05:00

It is again the middle of the week and moving towards the weekend. Our dear friend Joyce died last Friday, she will be really missed.

I am still just knitting along, and have not spun anything. Today was especially hard. I was very depressed, I don't know if it is from the Chronic Fatigue, which is really bad right now, or truly depression. My wonderful husband took me out to lunch today which helped some. I have not been sleeping at night, so during the day I want to sleep. If I nap in the afternoon which I almost have to , I get a little energy, but that may not help the night sleeping. I will see how things go and if they don't get any better I will call the doctor.

Well now that I got that off my chest on to happier things. I am redoing my sewing room, with a daybed, so if the husband snores I have a decent bed to sleep on. I also see myself sitting on it and knitting. The room is very bright even though it is on the North side of the house. I have painted it a beautiful blue with yellow accents on the window valences. We are going to replace the floor with a beautiful cherry laminate.

I have had to come up with some creative ways of storing since I am removing the Ikea bookshelf. It never was very sturdy. This makes me go through things and de-clutter. This year I am really going through a lot and getting rid of things with no sentimental value or I don't use anymore. This may be because my parents are packrats and I can't stand clutter. I have been very aggressive with my getting rid of, even, the horror, knitting books. I am giving those to good homes.

I do feel better and hope tomorrow will be better. Oh for the sun. I think I am gong to get one of those light boxes.

Life

2011-01-12T21:09:00.003-05:00

It is the middle of the week and on the down slope to the weekend. I am knitting a few different things, really trying to finish some UFO's. A dear friend Joyce is back in Intensive Care and my prayers go out to her and her family. I have not yet been able to try my spinning wheel, to busy with other things. I am going to make an effort to try and do some spinning.

We got about 3 inches of snow here, but we in the Mt. Airy Town Hall Knitting group, are like the post office, nothing keeps us from Knitting. We had a small group, but of course as always we had fun. Every week someone has something new to show.

We were talking at lunch about knitting for others. If you sat down and added up the cost of the yarn and your time even at minimum wage, people would not pay what you should honestly charge for a knitted garment. So only knit for those you know will truly appreciate your gift.

I am sitting here looking at my bookshelves and really think I need to go through and pare down and straighten up.

With Darby retiring at the end of this year, it ought to be interesting. I look at our sitting room/office and wonder how we both will share it. He says the only time he will need his computer is for paying bills and checking email; we will see if that happens.
I am thinking of maybe two smaller desks with two seperate chairs, maybe, I don't know. I really am getting to the point that I don't like clutter and want to pare things down.

Well I guess that is all for today. As David Reidy says. Carpa Lanium, cease the yarn.

Happy New Year

2011-01-03T11:16:00.004-05:00

What a start for the New Year a cold. I have to recommend Zicam quick dissolve tablets, even though it seemed like forever, my cold has only lasted about three days.

But on to happier things. Our Christmas was wonderful and even New Years Eve dinner was good, with family and friends.

I am very excited I am going to the Mannings in PA to buy a spinning wheel, hoorah.

I purchased an Ashford Traveller and love it. I just got it put together today (January 6, 2011) and can't wait to get started. It was suggested that I sit in the evening and while watching television treadle, so I get used to it. Music is also a good way to get the rhythm, Tom at the Mannings, suggested Celtic music which I love. I am thinking spinning will be fun and I should pick up the rhythm rather quickly since I have a musical background.

This is the year I plan to do a couple of knitting things. I plan to finish those projects I really want and Frog the rest. I also want to try socks. If I like it fine, if not at least I tried.

God has blessed us with many things and I want to make sure each day this year I make sure to remember that and thank God for everything I have.

The Moon On The Crest of The New Fallen Snow

2010-12-21T23:47:00.002-05:00

The moon shining down on the snow covered lake was beautiful. It was peaceful and just showed you how Awe inspiring God's creation is. "The moon on the crest of the new fallen snow, gave a luster of midday to objects below" I love that poem and never get tired of hearing it. As I was driving tonight with the moon shining above, the spirit of Christmas was all around. I could just imagine Mary and Joseph with the baby Jesus lying in a manger. Or Santa Claus driving his tiny sleigh across the sky.

It is a very special time of year.

Merry Christmas To Everyone and Peace on Earth!

Holiday Luncheon

2010-12-13T09:47:00.003-05:00

I finally figured out how to get the pictures from my phone onto my computer, so I could show and tell everyone about our wonderful Holiday Luncheon.

The Mt.Airy Town Hall Knitters met at TERSIGUEL'S French Restaurant for a wonderful Holiday Luncheon. One of our member's, Louise Turners' daughter is one of the chefs there. Her name is TeAnte Turner and she is the best. We had a choice of Pork, Beef, Fish or Veggie main dishes. Our appetizer was a wonderful vegetable soup, with amazing flavor and vegetables. I am not going to try and spell the entrees, suffice it to say they were all wonderful. The desert was a small chocolate mousse that was out of this world and a small blackberry tart.

Kathe, one of our members, brought English Crackers for us to open. Each contained a small whistle, crown and fun facts. Each whistle was a different pitch and when we played them as directed by Kathe it was suppose to be We Wish You A Merry Christmas, I think we need a little practice.

After our wonderful lunch some of us visited Cloverhill Yarns in Catonsville, MD. Of course I had to buy yarn and gave the bag to my husband telling him to give me this "sweater" for Christmas.

I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Merry Christmas

This Is Christmas

2010-12-12T10:57:00.002-05:00

This picture of Santa represents my Christmas's as a child. Something about him just brings my childhood memories back. He is an old fashion Santa, which is how I remember my Christmas's. I have been thinking lately about my Christmas's as a child, it is hard to put into words that special feeling. We always had two trees, one in the living room, which had the fancy and special balls on it; and one in the basement rec room, which was our tree, it had the homemade paper chains and the big lights on it. The creche was set up in a prominent place, because without Jesus there would be no Christmas.

I want to write about my childhood someday, but I have to figure out how to get those feelings into words.

My husband called me this past Saturday, he and our daughter were out shopping for me and I was desperately trying to find lights for the tree. They had seen a group of three woman in their late 20's and a women with them in here late 50's, leaving a store with their Christmas shopping getting into a Limo, he thought it was ridiculous, I thought it was the best idea I have ever seen. Relaxing in the back of the Limo while the driver fought traffic.

Our house is finally decorated and I am beginning my baking. I have wrapped everything and feel very relaxed. All that nagging paid off, getting the lists from everyone early.

Remember, Jesus is the reason for the season, without him we wouldn't have Christmas. Merry Christmas!!!!

The Weather Outside Is Frightful

2010-12-06T23:14:00.003-05:00

But the fire is so delightful. I love the cold weather, I know I am crazy, but I love it. I am sitting here in my warm flannel PJ's listening to the wind blow outside.

The house is decorated, except for the live tree, which I hope we get this weekend. I am finished shopping, but have to wrap it all. I am really looking forward to my Wednesday Knitting group, we are having our gift exchange and luncheon. Louise I am jealous and hope I get your gift, it is beautiful.

We need to stop and slow down this time of year, which I know is opposite of what we are doing. Advent is a time for reflection and prayer, remember, JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. And yes I wish people a Merry Christmas, the same as I would hope whatever you celebrate this time of year,you would wish me the same.

Snow is called for this weekend, which is fine after we get the tree.

Good Bye Thanksgiving Hello Christmas

2010-11-28T21:40:00.002-05:00

The last of the left overs were eaten today. Anything not eaten was thrown away, which wasn't much. We had a busy four days and I am looking forward to a normal week again, if I ever have normal weeks.

Most of my shopping is done, all I have to do is wrap. This gives me time to bake and enjoy the holidays. Our knitting luncheon is in a week and I am really looking forward to it.

I went to the movies with my daughter and two nieces, we saw Burlesque, a very good movie I must say. It kept your interest the whole time and seeing Cher sing is worth the admission. Boy I wish I looked half that good. I know it may be plastic surgery, but more power to her.

I want to see the Yogi Bear movie, it looks really good and entertaining. I also want to see Harry Potter.

I love this cold weather and hope it stays. I will be getting the inside of the house decorated for Christmas, my husband has already done the outside.

I recommend you listen to The Knitwits podcast it is very funny, with a husband and wife team. Their opening theme is the I Love Lucy theme, so that should tell you how good it is. Brenda Dane is back podcasting at CastOn, give her a listen.

Well it is off to finish some Christmas knitting, see you soon.

SAFONA, New Holland, PA

2010-11-21T12:09:00.001-05:00

SAFONA, New Holland, PA

What a wonderful day Louise and I had. We went to the SAFONA Fiber Festival in New Holland, PA. It was mostly Alpaca and just wonderful.

I bought my first drop spindle and got a quick lesson. I was doing great there, but when I got home it didn't work as well. I will have to go to the KnitPicks website, they have a great tutorial.

Of course I had to buy yarn, the funny thing is it wasn't Alpaca, it was cotton from Wolle's (a German pronunciation, V oo lees). The pictures show the three skeins I bought, one is for a Christmas present swap. I also have pictured my drop spindle and roving, I picked up a small pack of Alpaca to spin.

My feet should be warm, I picked up two pairs of Alpaca socks for $19.00, what a great bargain. The last picture are some of the vendors business cards. We also discovered an Alpaca Farm which is right in our neck of the woods in Thurmont. It is KenDen Alpacas, run by Kenny and Denise Favorite, their phone number is 301-271-3399. They said you can see their farm going up Rt 15 towards Emmitsburg, it across the road from Catoctin Mountain Orchards off Roddy Road.

It is so beautiful in Lancaster. We saw many horse and buggies, but I didn't get any pictures, maybe next time.

Of course we had to visit some local yarns stores. If you have ever heard of Old Susanna's, it is exactly as everyone has said. Yarns piled to the ceiling, small pathways through the yarn and tables of patterns. No rhyme or reason, but I am told she knows where everything is and can find it in an instant. I would only go back if there was a yarn I couldn't find anywhere else or that was discontinued, if they made it she has it. All I can say is Interesting.

Louise and I then went to "Kitnit Fine Yarns" on Old Hickory Road in Lancaster, PA. What a wonderful store. It is small but has the most beautiful samples and yarns. We both of course had to buy several patterns each, I also picked up buttons for my Moms sweater.

Our last stop was Christmas Tree Hill at the Mansion. There are several of these stores in MD, Hagerstown is the closest, but none like this one. It is housed in a sprawling old Mansion, decorated for Christmas all year long. We found some great ornaments, but they also carry Department 56 and beautiful furniture. I got some Christmas shopping done and could have spent a lot more.

Wow two posts in less then 2 days, how am I going to keep up this pace.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-19T22:19:00.002-05:00

Gee, I didn't realize how long it had been since I last posted. Things as always are busy, and my back has kept me down for awhile. My knitting is coming along. I finished the sweater for my Mom all it needs is the button. I am knitting a scarf for my sister it is suppose to be a simple two row pattern, the pattern on one row and purling on the other. For some reason I have had to rip it out 3 times and have had to tink several times because I was doing the pattern row on a purl side. I have now put a stitch marker on the purl side so I hope this helps.

Life is life. Prayer is the answer, especially when you can't do anything. Mom is a lot better then she has been, she is not shaking as much and her confusion seems to have cleared up. The Dr. today said the PET scan and MRI showed everything is fine. I wish the same could be said for my sister. She is getting a divorce and her husband is being,let say not very nice or very nasty, I have other words for him, but I won't put them here. He is in Minnesota with their two daughters and she is back here trying to find a job. He had agreed to let her bring the girls back here with her, but of course didn't keep that promise. As I said he is very nasty.

It is coming into cold weather which makes me very happy, but it is not getting cold enough or soon enough.

I will try and post more often. TTFN

It's Been A While

2010-10-14T12:53:00.003-04:00

I didn't realize it had been so long since I have posted anything. It has been a busy couple of months. With what I don't really know, but it has been busy.

I am sitting here writing as the rain comes down. I love days like this, especially with the cooler weather. I love cold weather, bring it on.

I frogged my Ludivine, I just wasn't happy with it. I will most probably restart it in January or so. I am working on a sweater for my mom for Christmas. That is also a project that has had some changes. The measurements given were the finished measurements and not the bust size. I did go up a needle size and I think it will work out. I looked at the pattern, it is from Creative Knitting July and realized it would not be good for my Mom for winter. I will continue on it later and give it to her for her Birthday in May. I designed a simple sweater and got some yummy yarn from WEBs, I can't wait until it gets here. It is bulky weight so should knit up fast and be very warm.

This has to be my favorite time of year, although this years heat has made it a little uncomfortable.

I am continuing on my Multnomah using the Briar Rose yarn Louise gave me for my birthday, it should be so warm. Our Mt Airy Knitting group lost a dear and wonderful lady last Saturday, Becky Woodfield. She will be greatly missed.

I am slowly getting the Buttercup Top done, I usually only knit on it when I am out, so it is a little slow going. We all say we are going on a yarn diet and only use what is in our stash, but with so many yummy yarns out there how can we resist. I plan on going to Knitting tonight at Eleganza, what trouble will I get into there.

I guess that is about all I have for now. I promise to write more often.

A Wonderful Weekend

2010-08-15T20:13:00.002-04:00

I had my favorite group of Ladies over last night for our Traveling Malabrigo Scarf Party. We all had a terrific time and the food was wonderful. Our scarves as you can see turned out beautifully. We all had a great time knitting these scarves and can't wait for cold weather. Sunday was a lazy day, with my parents and sister coming over for dinner. My darling husband made everything.

It has rained here two days in row, hurrah. We really need the rain. I so am looking forward to fall and winter. It is kind of different in our house for the last couple of years, since we no longer have any school going children. It is funny how you mark time, when your children are in school, now it is just August and Labor Day will be here soon. We are free, but it does feel a little different.

I am back to knitting on my Ludivine Mystery KAL!!!!

Ah August Where Is September!

2010-08-05T18:22:00.003-04:00

I am tired of this heat and humidity, I want cooler weather. Of course there are those of you out there who would tell me we can't all get what we want.

I had a wonderful trip Tuesday to Delaware with my good friend Louise. We picked up her new company van, but that wasn't the fun part. We went to the most wonderful yarn shop in Newark, Delaware. It had every imaginable yarn you could think of, it had wonderful samples for you to look at, and it had plenty of sofas, chairs and tables for you to sit and knit at or look through books. The owner was wonderful and even let Louise take pictures for her blog, Adventures of A Geritol Gypsy.

I am slowly going through my stash and putting yarns together. I am also working on about 4 projects at once. I am making a wonderful cardigan for my Mom for Christmas and just ordered the yarn. I am also knitting a hood for my daughter for this winter and got the most wonderful yarn from Webs.

August is busy so I hope it goes fast.
This picture is of the last full moon.

Are :You My Mother

2010-07-25T20:17:00.002-04:00

These are the newest babies on our porch. I gave up on the ferns, but can't get rid of this one until the little ones fly away. This little bird looking up at me reminded me of the book "Are You My Mother".

It poured rain this afternoon and has cooled things down ever so slightly. Of course the weather men are saying we are going to get a break in the weather, highs only in the 90 to 92 range, in what universe is that a break. Hot is hot.

I am moving along on my knitting, I took a break from the Buttercup top and the Alpaca sweater to knit up some preemie hats. I am doing the mystery KAL from Shalimar yarns, the yarn is beautiful, can't wait to get the pattern clues.

We are getting five more new windows, which will take care of the back of the house, hurrah!!! November we will get the last five, I can't wait. They are so pretty, with their Prairie style grids.

I am reading the first in the Outlander series and I am really enjoying it. I was quite surprised when I was reading that one of the characters names is Letitia, just like my middle name, even spelled the same.

Well stay cool until we meet again.

Midsummer

2010-07-18T19:36:00.004-04:00

It is hot, but comfortable this evening. We are halfway through a very strange summer. I slept through the earthquake, which is real bummer. Not much is going on, my birthday is coming up later this week, but that is about it. Darby and I celebrated 31 years of blissful marriage. The definition of blissful can be subjective. We have a wonderful marriage which makes it blissful, but that doesn't mean we don't have our ups and downs.

My poor plants are always drooping and I have given up watering the ferns, I can't get rid of them yet because of the bird nest and the babies. Next year I am planting Cactus, at least I will save on water.

My sister will be moving back to the Washington DC area soon, which I am very glad of. Not much else is going on, please continue to keep my brother in your prayers. These are some of the baby birds/

Thought You Would Like These Pictures

2010-06-04T21:22:00.002-04:00

What Others Think

2010-06-01T15:23:00.004-04:00

I was reading the post from a blog that one of my Ravelery friends referred to. It was sad because the blog was about a women who's son was in intensive care for a severe drug overdose and assualt, the child eventually died. What struck me was when she told about being worried what other people would think and if this would affect the care her son received. It did not affect the care he received just because he was a drug addict. He was treated with care and compassion. In the ICU there was no judgement, just caring.

I like many people am always concerned about what other people think, I think I worry to much about it. I believe it is the nature of most women to think this way. But why? I think if you talk to most men they would not be so concerned about what other people think, at least not in the sense we women do. I am making a confession here when I say,that when ever I go out, I need to make sure my hair is done, my makeup looks good and my clothes are flattering. I am not saying this because I am conceited, but because I worry about what others think. I try never to judge others and hope they don't judge me, but I irrationally feel I am being judged.

Why has our society come to this, judging others by what they wear and how they look (are they slim and pretty), who they know, how much they make. We need to get away from this type of thinking. I believe sometimes the only way to do this is to stop watching television and stop reading most of the things we read now a days.

It just struck me when I read about this woman and how she was concerned about the care her son would receive because he was drug addict. This judging of everyone and everything has permeated our social conscience way to much. Our social conscience needs to be caring for others and helping others.

We need to take care of ourselves and do the best we can and if possible not worry about what other people think. The only person you should worry about what they think is God. God loves us just the way we are, he accepts our flaws, so we should to. The more concerned we become about what other people think the less time we have to truly help others and make a difference. Read Matthew 6:25-34,it is the way we all should act and feel.

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T20:25:00.004-04:00

So many times we forget the true meaning of this day. We celebrate the "official" beginning of summer, we party, shop and picnic. We need to remember what this day is all about. We need to honor our men and women who have fought and died for our freedom. We need to honor those men and women who today are fighting for and protecting our freedom. I try every time I see a service man or woman to thank them for their service and keeping me free. We don't know what we have until it is taken away from us. We need to remember that and make sure our politicians do their job and protect our country. If they don't do the job, then they need to be removed. Don't be fooled by eloquent speech, make sure you know the truth behind the words.

I received an email the other day which described a person who was an eloquent speaker, who promised to be for the people. A person who by his words seemed to be perfect for what his country needed at the time. We all had in our minds who this person was as we read the description, the shocker was when you got to the end of this email the person being described was Adolf Hitler. We all know what happened when he came to power. It was our brave men and women who helped to overpower this evil and restore truth and democracy to the world. Let us make sure we are not fooled by pretty words and empty actions, this could happen to us and who would fight for us?

Now that I got that off my chest, I hope you all had a wonderful Memorial Day and enjoy the pictures of my Clematis.

Wow Apple Is Great

2010-05-28T10:53:00.001-04:00

My IPad is great but what is even better is Apple's technical support. I had a problem with blogger and they were very helpful, finding an Application for blogger on IPad. Apple really protects it's customer they will not allow programs on that could potentially hurt your computer. They will not allow a program to be sold until it meets their stringent requirments. MY next computer will be an Apple, no more crashes or lock ups. Its a great product.

Posted with altBlogger.

My New IPad Keyboard

2010-05-27T17:02:00.003-04:00

This entry is using my new wireless keyboard. A little different than a regular one, but much more convenient . The weather is miserably hot, a preview of summer. Thank heaven for air-conditioning. I am moving along on my dress that I cut out. I am hoping this will turn out to be flattering and I can make some more. I much prefer dresses to skirts or pants. I am moving along on my Buttercup top in Zoe Sock, it may get done by the end of summer. Nothing much is going on, so I will write soon.

My First Post on My IPad

2010-05-24T23:30:00.002-04:00

This should be interesting typing on a virtual key board. I seem a little faster. The weather is getting warmer which means I will be inside more. More time for knitting I hope. It is coming up on the one year anniversary of our accident, a year is suppose to make a difference. I don't know about that, I am still extremely tired and still can't do a lot of what I want. I wonder some days if I'll ever get back to feeling like I did before the accident. This has just aggravated my fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Such is life, at least we survived relatively unscathed. I thank God for that everyday.

Enough of my pity party. There are wonderful things in the world, I just have to figure out how to see and do them without tiring myself out. I need to transfer so pictures on to my IPad, I don't have many on here yet, and I can't have a post without a picture. I need to get out in my garden and taken some. The clematis is blooming it's head off, and taking over front walk.

Well this wasn't to bad I still think it be easier when I get my wireless keyboard. TTFN

What Happened To Spring

2010-04-18T20:45:00.002-04:00

It is beautiful when you look out the window, but cold when you go outside. My poor furnace doesn't know what to do, I keep having to switch back and forth between heating and cooling. I don't want it real hot, but 70's would be nice.

Catherine and I are going on a train trip the end of the month to South Carolina, to visit her best friend. I love the train and would much rather sit on the train for 10 hours then drive a car. It took a little convincing for Catherine, but it is better for me and her.

I continue to ask for prayers for my Brother, he needs a miracle. I hope this doctor at NIH is our miracle. He can't survive without getting blood and platelets every 5 days or so.

Nothing much is going on in my life right now. I am winding up my year as President of the New Market Lions Club and have really enjoyed it.

Until next time. TTFN

Spring Is Here and Happy Easter

2010-04-01T11:54:00.006-04:00

At last spring is here in all its' splendor. The weather today is beautiful and the flowers are blooming. I always look forward to Easter, but before Easter I look forward to the Easter Tridium, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and The Easter Vigil. Maybe it is because I am a convert to the Roman Catholic Church, and this is the time of year I came into the church. Holy week reminds us all of what Jesus Christ did for all mankind. It brings it to the fore front. I believe sometimes in our daily lives we forget just what Christ did for us. No human could possibly endure what Christ did. He was both human, completely, and divine. He truly suffered for our sins.

I am hoping to get more time to sit on my front porch to read and knit. I love this time of year when it isn't so overly hot, or at least if it is hot, the humidity is low. I hate it when it gets so hot I can't go out. I feel trapped, since I can't tolerate the heat. In winter it is OK because it is cold, but summer I want to be out and enjoying nature.

I still ask for your continued prayers for my brother, he sees the specialist on April 27, but he really is living on borrowed time, he still needs blood and platelets every week.

Spring I welcome you and celebrate all you have to give.

Reflections On The Trees

2010-03-13T11:23:00.002-05:00

I am sitting in my sun room, parlor, office, I still don't know what to call it. It is pouring down rain and overcast. I am looking at the trees, bare of any flowers or leaves. There is still beauty in them, their bones are showing, they reach to the sky. I don't know why but they are beautiful to me in this form, rather than in full bloom. Perhaps this is because you see what they really are, you see their true beauty and not just their finery and "makeup".There is still life to them, they have green moss growing up their trunks, and the birds sit like beautiful ornaments on their branches.

I am trying very hard to stay strong in my belief in Gods infinite wisdom and power. Things for my brother do not look good. University of Maryland doctors have said all his tests look great, but because he is not producing any blood a bone marrow transplant is not possible. They have referred him to NIH to a world renown doctor who deals with this type of problem. God answers prayers, but not always the way we want. We do not have the whole picture like God does. What ever the answer is it is right for everyone involved. My prayer then is for God to help us accept his answers even if they are painful. Please pray for my brother and his healing.

I hope for Spring and all its colors and finery. God shows us how beautiful life is in all seasons.

Where Is Spring? This From a Snow Lover

2010-02-20T12:36:00.002-05:00

I am sitting in my Sunroom looking out at the slowly melting snow on the deck. At the height of the storms we had over 30 inches on the deck. This really helped the squirrels. All they had to do was climb on a snow pile and they were eye level with the bird feeder, how convenient for them. I love the snow and the cold weather, although it can drive you stir crazy. I did get a bit of knitting done. I just finished my second Multnomah shawl in worsted weight yarn. It is wonderful, but it really takes a lot of time when doing it in worsted weight. It is exactly what I wanted though, so it is worth the work.

I never knew anything could keep my interest as much as knitting has. I do a variety of things, but this is something I have yet to grow tired of. I have been knitting I believe over 6 years now. I have so many patterns I want to knit I will never run out of things to do.

Having seen a Cat Bordhi book I might even take up socks, which I vowed never to do after several failed attempts. I believe her toe up method may be the answer.

That is about it for now. The picture I hope will bring spring.

A Sunny Winters Day

2010-01-15T11:43:00.002-05:00

As I am sitting looking out my bay window, the squirrels are chasing each other around the deck. They are funny little creatures, very animated. I have one who crawls up the outside furniture and sits on the shelf outside my kitchen window looking in. He will also come to the bay window and stand on his hind legs and look in. I write in my children's books about Elizabeth mouse, but maybe I should write about these squirrels, they could have quite an adventure.

My knitting is coming along, I finished my first multnomah shawl and I am working on another one. I am slowly, very slowly working on Catherine's hooded scarf, it is not complicated just tedious somehow. I don't seem to be progressing as quickly as I thought I should. I will pick up the yarn from Kristi today to start the criss-cross jabot from Knitspot for the Shalimar KAL.

Chip ( my brother) is having a bone marrow biopsy today at the University of Maryland, hopefully they can help him, they are our last hope. Don't ever go to John Hopkins, they lie to people and force people into studies by not informing them until it is to late about the study. My brother went down there for what he thought was a simple bone marrow transplant, but after they had killed off all his bone marrow, they informed him that he was going into a study, when he objected they told him it was that or nothing. They had 100% matches, but their study was using half matches from a relative, which my sister, niece and I were. My sister gave her bone marrow but it did not take. Most likely because it was only a half match. They jeopardized my brothers life for their study. This is unethical and needs to be reported, I am hoping my sister will do so. Please keep Chip in your prayers that the University of Maryland can help him.

Hurray

2009-12-18T15:47:00.003-05:00

Well the first real snow of the winter is coming and it isn't even officially winter yet, not until the 21st or 22nd. I have made hotel reservations for my daughter to stay in Bethesda close to work, she is a nurse at Bethesda Naval hospital. That takes a little worry of my mind. I love the snow but hate it if anyone I know has to go out in it.

We will have a White Christmas this year, it should be beautiful, the roads should be clear, but white all around us. I recently watched Julie and Julia and loved it. This blogging thing is pretty good. I don't know if I'll cook my way through Julia's cook book, but I want to get it and try. I really loved watching her on television, we should all have her attitude about cooking. Hurray for Butter. Maybe with this snow I will get my baking done.

Have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!

I Did It

2009-11-10T09:45:00.002-05:00

I joined the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrator's. I have written a few children's stories and have wanted to get them published. I met a woman Saturday night who was a published author, and she was the spark that gave me the courage to set this dream in motion. I have learned quite a lot from just visiting their website.

My Aunt Barbara was a writer of children's books and has always inspired me. My Aunt was also a very good illustrator who could make her stories come to life. Illustrating is one thing I don't know how to do, which is frustrating because I see the illustrations in my mind and want to put them to paper. Maybe I will take a drawing class.

I want this dream to come true and will do what is takes to get published.

Wish Me Luck!

2009-11-07T09:43:00.003-05:00

It is a beautiful day today. I had to get up early to take Hubby to pick up a rental car, so we went out to breakfast. I wasn't much fun because I was still asleep. The weather is suppose to be beautiful, the weather mans words, but a little to warm for me at this time of year. I can't wait until Wednesday when we are to get rain and temperatures back to normal for this time of year. I will have to say that the frosty air this morning was wonderful.

I am coming along on my sweater and have knitted a gauge swatch for another sweater. This sweater will be out of Blue Sky Baby Alpaca in a chestnut brown. I can't wait to get started. One problem I am having is counting the number of stitches, my eyes are getting old and the dark color makes it difficult. I think I will have some one else check my gauge to be sure I am on gauge.

Our daughter will be with us for a little while longer. Even though she qualifies for a sizable mortgage, after looking at her finances and the college loans, it would be tight buying a house right now. She is relieved, I know she wants to get closer to work, but I don't think she likes the idea of living so far away from home. If she could find a house in Urbana, it would cut about 20 minutes off her commute. Not much but better then right now. One of these days we will know what empty nesting is, but not now.

Well I think I am going to rest a little and then do some knitting or sewing.

PS: I sent five preemie hats with my daughter down to the NICU at Bethesda Naval. I am working on more. They are so cute.

An Exciting Time of Year

2009-11-01T19:35:00.002-05:00

This is right down the street from me.

This time of year I love. Except for this nasty warm, yes I said warm weather. It needs to be cold now. Things can get busy now, but I have to be careful I don't over do it and end up in the hospital again.

My thoughts turn to Thanksgiving and the dinner. I am hosting and love to do it. I enjoy decorating the house and the tables.

Christmas is just around the corner and I already have some gifts. I just have to make sure what I got for whom. My knitting is coming along. I need to finish the sleeves on my sweater so I can wear it. I love knitting the preemie caps for the NICU at Bethesda Naval. They are quick and so cute. I want to start on a cardigan with my Blue Sky Alpaca.

Enjoy the fall.

Fall

2009-10-15T13:43:00.002-04:00

It is raining and cold today, I love it. If I didn't have to go out it would be perfect. I am moving along on my cardigan and can't wait to finish it. I need to work on my shawl/wrap in the alpaca. Everything has kind of been put on the back burner because of the wedding and then me going into the hospital.

I want to make some applesauce so maybe this weekend I can convince my husband to drive to the mountains and get some apples. My kids only like homemade applesauce, I guess I spoiled them in that way.

I had my 15 minutes of fame recently. Many months ago I had contributed money to the podcast Cogknitive, as I was catching up on my listening, Dr. Gemma announced that the month of August was sponsored by Susieknitster of New Market, MD.. Louise called and told me about it, so I quickly downloaded the podcasts and started listening to them. With everything that was going on I had stopped listening to podcasts. I usually listened in the car and since I couldn't drive I got out of the habit of listening to them.

I love this time of year and look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas. The colors on the trees are becoming prettier by the day, a drive in the mountains is called for.

Ahh Fall

2009-09-27T20:18:00.002-04:00

The wedding went off without a hitch, the bride was beautiful and so was everyone else. I can't believe my little boy is married. We had a wonderful time in Williamsburg, VA on vacation with Darby's sister Catherine and her husband Jack. We are planning on making this a yearly thing. Next year we are going to Myrtle Beach sometime in October.

Life is getting back to normal, vacations are nice, but as Dorothy said, there is no place like home. I can now concentrate on our Study of the Catholic Church and enjoy my knitting get together's on Wednesday mornings and Thursday evenings.

We even got some Christmas shopping done in Williamsburg, there are only 90 some days left until the Big Day. The many Christmas Shops told us that. Thank heavens for the cool weather, I am not a summer person. I love the Fall and yes, even the winter. I just finished my shawl for the Shalimar Early Fall KAL, once I get my computer back, I need to take a picture and post it. The shawl is so warm and cozy I can't wait until it gets a little cooler.

I guess that is about it for now. With the wedding behind us, things are a little slow, but that is OK.

Today in History

2009-09-11T14:59:00.003-04:00

I remember vividly that morning. I was watching the Today show and saw it happen. My neighbor came over and we couldn't believe it. I tried in vane to get in touch with Darby and couldn't. When I finally went upstairs to get dressed and turned on the TV I was in for a bigger shock. They were reporting on NY and the local station switch to the Pentagon, I knew it was the Pentagon before they even said anything. Darby had worked there for years and still had meetings there on occasion. Since I couldn't get in touch with him I really panicked. This was before we all had cell phones. He could have been at the Pentagon. I did finally get in touch with him and we tried to figure out how to get him home, the metro was not running. When they finally reopened metro he got home.

I will never forget the feelings of that day. I sat on my porch waiting for my daughter to get home from school. It was eerily quiet. No planes were in the air. We are over the flight path for Frederick Airport, so this really was eerie.

It changed our lives. We all got cell phones after that. We all felt a little closer to each other. It didn't bring us back to church because we always went to church, but I would say church was a little fuller after that.

Will we ever not remember I don't think so. I think this will be with us for the rest of our lives. Let us not forget to tell those who were to young to remember so it is never forgotten.

Mid Month Ramblings

2009-09-08T22:02:00.003-04:00

The wedding is almost here, and we are glad. It will be a wonderful day, but at this point we just want it over. DH and I are going to Williamsburg, VA the Tuesday after, with DH sister and her husband. We are really looking forward to this.

My Tropical Tee is done, but a little big. I have to figure out how to pull it in. I have some ideas. I am now knitting on a shawl in Blue Sky Alpace, it is so yummy. I am also going to do the Shalimar Early Fall KAL. I am doing my favorite shawl in Missy, in the colorway Billowy.

Our daughter is just waiting to hear that the first mortgage bank has signed off on her offer for the house in Germantown, hopefully she will be a homeowner in the next week or two. Of course that means, painting, putting up fans, replacine flooring, etc. She is excited but I am sure a little scared. The house is really beautiful, it has a porch and flower garden in the front. I am sure we will helping build a deck next spring.

I am looking forward to the weather cooling down. I don't like hot weather!!

Well I am sure you won't hear from me until after the wedding, so tata for know.

Summer Time and The Living Is Easy?

2009-08-13T21:43:00.002-04:00

The weather just makes you want to stay inside and knit. That is exactly what I have been doing. My tropical tee had a tiny set back. I didn't like where I had joined a new piece of yarn (I had to because I ran into a knot, and a few more after that), so I put in a life line and ripped back. It looks much better now and I know I did the right thing.

This no driving thing is getting to me. No matter what I want to do I have to rely on someone else. My daughter and husband have been wonderful. Louise you have been a true gem, I would be going mad by now it not for our little adventures.

I look forward to the cool bright days of autumn. I want to wear some of my sweaters that I plan to finish soon.

A rainy day would be nice not only for staying inside but our lawn could use the drink.

Life is what you make it, so be joyful and thank God for all you have.

Sunny Day

2009-08-06T12:35:00.002-04:00

The sun has come out and I believe it is not quite as hot as before. This is only a brief reprieve it is suppose to be 90 degrees and above by Sunday. I am getting out today. Louise and I are going to dinner and then knitting at Eleganza, Yippy, Hurray!!! (You think maybe I am going a little stir crazy).

I am progressing on my Tropical Tee. I hope to get some help this evening on the Lacy pattern shrug. It is really pretty but the pattern is a little confusing, I have started it 5 times now and still can't get the ending right.

We are having the bridal shower for Dawn this Sunday. I have to make up the bouquets, but mostly everything is coming along nicely.

If I only could drive, Darby likes it because he says I am not spending money, did he forget the internet (haHa). Sometimes I just want to get out of the house, not spend money.

I guess that is all for today. I hope to get out and get some new pictures of flowers in my garden, so you will see them next time.

Reflections

2009-08-04T10:33:00.003-04:00

Today is is sunny and very hot. We have finally gotten the summer weather we thought we would never get this summer. Well the Doctor says he does not see any healing of the bone yet, but that is not unusual, there is such a large area to heal. Each time I go to him I learn more. This type of break is very bad, but at the same time very good. There is more surface to heal and let the blood flow get to it. He also told me that it is also the most painful break, Duh, I could tell him that.

Enough about me. I am progressing on my Tropical Tee, slow and steady wins the race. I also am starting on the Lacy Shrug from the Nashua Vacation booklet. It is beautiful, but I have had to rip it out four times now. I did finally find the Irrata on it, which explained a lot, but I am having problems making it come out right at the end. I think I need to talk to Kristi about it.

I am going on a Cruise around Ireland, Scotland and England, that leaves from Rotterdam, The Netherlands, next August. Louise (Roadweaver) told me about it and we are going together along with Teante and maybe Brian her husband, and maybe my daughter Catherine.

Life is good and this whole thing with my arm is teaching me patience. It reminds me of a "prayer", God please give me patience and hurry up with it.

Things Are Getting Better

2009-07-20T22:14:00.003-04:00

It was a good day today. My husband got good news from him doctor and even though I am still in a sling, things are doing OK.

I am knitting again slowly and have finished the back of my tropical Tee. I have cast on for the front and will begin knitting it soon. I got some wonderful Alpaca from Eleganza's sale and also some Shalimar.

God blesses us always, and it is said all prayers are answered, even if it is not what you wanted. Garth Brooks has a wonderful song call "I Thank God For Unanswered Prayers", you should listen to it some time it really has a great message.

I just finished reading "The Shack" I recommend it to everyone, it can be a life changing book. It shows God, Jesus and The Holy Ghost in a wonderful and unique way.

I just want to thank God for today and his many blessings. I want to live up to His standards and be worthy of His blessings.

Ah Summer

2009-07-16T21:47:00.002-04:00

It is starting to get a little more sticky here, but the weather is still great. I am still trying to mend, but it is not going to well, the Doctor hopes in another three weeks to see some healing. I am not knitting much, but a will do a row at a time and stop. I miss being able to knit faster, there are some new projects I want to start.

Our sons wedding is coming up in about two months so things are getting a little more hectic on that front. My brother is not doing real well, so please continue to pray for him.

It has been nice to have someone clean the house for us, it would be even better if I could continue to have her come every week. ( Ah what luxury).

I miss everyone at my knitting groups, but can't go anywhere until I can drive and who knows when that will be.

Well that is about all.

A Brief Note

2009-07-10T22:02:00.002-04:00

This will not be long, since I shouldn't be typing. My broken collar bone is not healing and I have to see an orthopedist. This are frustrating times since I can't do much of anything, it is wearing on me. The picture is one I took at night of the moon over our neighborhood. It looks like the sun, but if you look, the house silhouette is black. I have always been fascinated by the moon and the light it sheds.

I want to get back to knitting, but I don't know what the Doctor is going to say. I may have to have surgery. Who Knows?

Thank God and Ford

2009-07-04T21:13:00.003-04:00

As some of you may or may not know Darby and I were in a serious accident on June20, 2009. As you see from the picture our car was totalled. We escaped with minor injuries, I have broken collarbone and contusions and Darby has some bad contusions. We were hit head on and spun around and then hit by two more cars. God was with us that day and our Ford Taurus did the rest. I was stuck in the car and the fire department had to pry the door off to get me out. All in all we are very lucky.

Something like this makes you think. We have the pain and the fatigue but we are alive. We will never drive the same way again. The guy that hit us was leaning down to get his sunglasses and came over the center line. We all do things like this, but not any more.

Since our car was totalled we had to get a new one. A Ford Taurus of course. The new one has Sync, which syncs my phone with the speaker system. No more driving while holding the phone.

I can't do much knitting, I am so right handed it is ridiculous, I am totally helpless. I am able to half dress myself now but it is still difficult. I miss seeing every one and of course I can't drive for a while, so I am at the mercy of my darling husband and daughter.

I love my husband dearly and appreciate all he is doing, especially since he doesn't fell 100% yet.

This makes you think and appreciate your life.

God was with us that day and is with us everyday, I thank Him everyday for saving our lives.

Beautiful North Carolina

2009-06-11T20:39:00.003-04:00

We are in Boiling Springs, NC the home of Gardner Web University for the wedding of our daughters best friend Kacey. It is beautiful here and the weather is not real hot, and of course it has rained. The town got its name because there was/is a spring that bubble up making it look like it was boiling. It doesn't do much now a days. The campus is beautiful.

I love coming to the south, people are so friendly here and very helpful. The pace is slower here, which is better than the rat race most of us live in.

I am sure the wedding will be beautiful and the couple are made for each other.

This is nice little vacation for Darby and I. We have a Suite with a whirlpool tube right in the room and a fireplace. There pool is very nice also, maybe we will go swimming tomorrow.

Guess that is about it.

Prayer

2009-06-07T22:14:00.003-04:00

My brother is still in the hospital, he has fungal pneumonia. They say that his immune system is totally gone. That his T-cells have been attacking what blood he makes and what he gets through transfusions. The pneumonia is being treated, but the medication makes these bubbles that burst in his lung and then the lungs get fluid in them. This is very scary and he is afraid to go to sleep at night. The pneumonia is getting better and I believe they have him on anti-rejection drugs so what blood he gets stays with him.

All we can do is pray and trust that God will guide the doctors. For some reason at Hopkins you get a new doctor every week, which doesn't make much sense. I have always been a big believer in prayer and I know that God answers all prayers, but I have to admit this is pretty hard. I don't won't to get upset in front of my mom and dad I know this is hard on them. I will seem to be handling it very well and then suddenly I am crying.

I guess I am asking all of you to pray for my brother, Chip, and his family. It is out of our hands and in God's hands.

Thank You All

Trying To Get By

2009-05-28T21:48:00.002-04:00

This has been a stressful week for me. I had to call the EMT's for my "adopted son" Michael on Tuesday, he had not taken his insulin and went into KA. He is doing better and will be coming home soon. My mom called tonight and said my brother is back in the hospital with a fever, they don't know why and with his body not producting blood this is serious. Please keep him in your prayers.

What got me through this week are my knitting friends. Being able to go to the Wednesday morning group in Mt. Airy was great. Tonight at Eleganza was wonderful also. Good friends are a blessing. I also have to thank my wonderful neighbors, we all look out for each other.

This is going to be a busy weekend, especially with my daughter still looking for a house in Germantown. If any one knows of a decent Townhouse for sale in Germantown, please let me know. There are a lot of houses for sale, but most are forclosures and they are in horrible shape.

Well back to the sewing machine.

What Have I Been Doing

2009-05-17T20:13:00.007-04:00

I can't believe it was almost a month ago that I last posted. Sorry, Sorry.

Mothers day has come and gone, it was very nice, DH was working on the deck and is still working on the deck. I can't wait for that to be finished and neither can he.

I went to Minnesota, Chaska to be exact to visit my sister and her family. It was my oldest niece Kira's confirmation. It was a lovely day, nicer than here, and we all had a good time. I represented the east coast part of the family. I love Minnesota and greatly enjoy flying, even with all the hassle.

We are still working on the September wedding of my son and his fiance. We are going to a silk flower place in Pennsylvania soon to get the flowers. Our daughter just had a wedding shower for her best friend, here at the house, today. That wedding is June12 (what ever the Saturday is) and we are going. It is in Boiling Springs, NC a beautiful little town, home to Gardner Webb University. Can't wait for that, it will be a mini vacation for Darby and I.

As an aside one of her best friends cousins brought their 8 week old little boy, he started crying and no one could seem to sooth him. The minute Catherine took him he quieted down. She really has the touch. She is very special and it takes someone special to work in the Neonatal Intesive Care Unit.

My brothers second bone marrow transplant has been put on hold. They say he would not survive. His biopsy shows dead lukemia cells which is very good, but his body is not producing enough blood, he is still having to get transfusions. They are doing IVG which is an immune boosting treatment, hoping this will kick start his bone marrow.

He is getting a little discouraged, with John Hopkins. They are living on a reputation that is not exactly true. There patient relations sucks. You are lucky if you talk to the doctor and he actually answers your questions. We are still praying and ask everyone we know to please continue to pray for Chip and his family.

I am trying to figure out why I can't seem to get my things done. I think it is because I am doing for everyone else. I just want one week that I have nothing to do. Darby is out of town this week, maybe I can get some things done. I won't have to worry about getting meals and things.

I will try to Blog a little more frequently. The picture is my Clematis vine in the front of my house and the beautiful sunset we had.

Hurrah

2009-04-21T17:52:00.002-04:00

My sister just called me and said she had heard from my brothers wife that they have found three 100% bonemarrow matches for my brother. That is all we know for now, but we are blessed that they found three. Please Pray that this works this time and he is healed and starts producing his own blood.

Ah Spring

2009-04-19T16:51:00.002-04:00

It is really looking and feeling like spring. Some one needs to tell Mother Nature, the cool weather this coming week is not welcome. We are working in the yard, or I should say my dear husband is working in the yard. He and our son will be replacing the decking with trek deck in the next couple of weeks. My poor feet are so grateful, splinters are no fun. With the spring and wet weather, I have gotten my yearly case of bronchitis, so if you don't see me at get togethers', that is the reason. The doctor gave me stuff today so I should be feeling better. Plans for the wedding are moving along, I think I may have found a dress.

The flowers are beautiful, we are putting in a path and perennials along the side of the house, with a fountain and bench. The grass doesn't want to grow like my husband would like so we are putting stone in with ground cover and some everblooming hydrangeas, I love hydrangeas.

I am coming along with the simple cardigan, I am almost finished one sleeve and the other is half way done. I am planning on a cap sleeve top and want to finish the shawl I started. Every time I open a magazine or stop in at Eleganza I see things I want to do.

I am missing Louise and hope we can get together soon. We will miss each other at Sheep and Wool this year because I will be in Minnesota.

I am soaking my Noni classic purse to felt it some more, the handles are beautiful but the purse needs to shrink a little more.

Enjoy your spring, we all know the weather will get hot very soon.

Hurrah For The Sun

2009-04-16T22:03:00.004-04:00

It finally returned, the sun, the glorious sun. Everything looks different when the sun shines. Things have been busy, everyone was here at my house on Sunday for Easter. I got to see my brother for the first time since before Thanksgiving. His leukemia is dormant right now but his body is not producing enough red blood cells, so he needs transfusions. He is on the national bone marrow list, hoping to find a 100% match. Please keep him in your prayers and hope that they call him soon with a match.

Our flowers are blooming and we are going to start another garden on the side of the house, hopefully with a fountain and bench. It is shady and sunny so we need a mix of plants.

The wedding plans are coming along for our sons September wedding. We love Dawn and are so happy she is going to be a part of our family. I know Catherine likes it that she has a "sister".

I am working on two sweaters, two or three scarves and just bought some beautiful yarn from Eleganza to knit up a summer top. Don't tell my husband. I am determined to finish the pink sweater as soon as possible. My idea of knitting both sleeves at the same time backfired, so I am now knitting them separately.

Hurrah for the Sun, the warm weather and spring.

A Rainy Day

2009-04-01T20:34:00.002-04:00

Today was spent mostly in the car taking my "adopted" son to see the surgeon. He had surgery last Thursday on his leg and foot and needed to go back for a check up. All is well, but he needs to stay off the foot as much as possible. His doctor is at Sinai Hospital in Baltimore. I had hoped to hear from a friend I haven't spoken to in awhile, but there were no messages. This is getting me a little down, because I don't know why she hasn't called. Louise is back from China and has a lot of pictures and yarn to show. I can't wait to see her. We may go on a knitting cruise together next year.

This gray weather is not helping my mood, I hope it stops and we have some sunshine soon. This to shall pass, but at this point I have no patience. I am working on two sweaters, and have finished the scarf for my sisters' boss. Every time I go into Eleganza it is like going into a candy store, temptation, temptation.

I guess that is about it, I hope by my next blog entry my mood will be better.

TTFN

Just A Few Things

2009-03-22T20:50:00.004-04:00

My kitchen is now usable and almost complete. The floors go in on Tuesday and I can finally look at it and say wow. The house is back in order, but my back is now out of order. I have been working on the novelty yarn, Cancun, scarf for my sisters boss. Now I know why I didn't knit any more of these after hers. This yarn is a dilly to work with. I am anxious to get started on my bolero with the Serendipitous Ewe yarn. I successfully frogged my pink sweater back to the beginning of the decreases, after making a mistake. Thanks Jane.

The weather has been wonderful, and those cold days are coming fewer and farther apart. Easter should be beautiful. My sister and her family will be coming in.

I am flying out to Minnesota in May for my nieces confirmation. I am really excited. I have not flown in a long time. I spent about half an hour looking at what you can and can't take. I think I will pack my knitting and just take my Kindle on the plane. I will also get to see my sisters new house. I am hoping I get to some local yarn shops, there are quite a few in the Minneapolis, St Paul area.

Weill that is about it.

God Bless

Enjoying An Early Spring Day

2009-03-11T13:37:00.002-04:00

My countertops are finally going in. YEA!!!!!! I am sitting in the living room watching the birds and enjoying the day, eventhough it is cloudy. I am slowly working on my shawl, the mitten for my dad, which I think I am going to frog and start over, it is a little big. I am also doing some sewing. I bought three different denims yesterday and I am going to make some skirts. Would you believe this denim says machine wash and line dry.

We are very busy right now, with DD birthday coming up, DS and his fiance moving and getting the kitchen painted and a new floor put in. The kitchen is going to be beautiful, but it is a little nerve wracking.

The birds sing in the morning are my alarm clock, although they want to get up earlier then I like. It is nice to sleep with the windows open once again. I also hear the train at night, which is comforting.

I guess that is all for now. Everybody have a blessed day.

Double Points

2009-02-28T21:24:00.002-05:00

I have found my solution to knitting socks,etc. I bought a set of double points on Thursday to make a pair of mittens for my Dad and I am in love. I have tried the two circulars and the magic loop and was never happy with them. I knew in the back of my mind that double points were the answer and this has proved it. I love knitting with DPN's, I had bought a set of harmony ones but never used them. I am going to start a sock soon. Funny how life can be.

The more I Knt the more I love it. It is one of the most satisfing things I have ever done. It has also brought me a lot of wonderful new friends.

My kitchen is half done. The cabinets are in and I am slowly putting things away, the arrangment and kind of cabinets are different then before so I have to figure out where to put things. They will be templating for the countertops on Monday, so I should have them in a week. The floor should be going in the second week of March, Yippeeeee!!

Winter Musings

2009-02-23T21:12:00.002-05:00

It was beautiful today, bright and sunny, but also very cold just like I like it. The birds are at the feeder and I must get some more squirrel food. I have been doing some driving around the county and find winter to be beautiful. The trees though bare are beautiful in their graceful way. The birches show off their white bark beautifully and there is color in many of the other trees and their bark. The cardinals stand out with their bright red in the trees. We have quite a few of them.

The trees though bear are showing some signs of life and the hope of spring to come. That means I better get my pink cardigan done so I can wear it when the weather gets warmer.

I have been listening to quite a few podcasts and find the ones from England and Australia quite interesting. A different perspective on our world is good.

Never say never and keep on knitting.

Such Is Life

2009-02-09T21:26:00.003-05:00

I thought I would have a new kitchen today, but the designer didn't listen to the contractor and a couple of the cabinets were wrong. So it will be another two weeks before I can get my house back in some semblance of order.

I am working on my vintage noni bag and can't wait to finish it. I also want to get the cardigan done that I started I think last spring. I want to start a new bolero, using AngiMacs Hydrangea yarn, It will be very pretty.

I was worried about getting a dress for my sons wedding, but found a wonderful site, Sydneys Closet, there were quite a few pretty dresses there so I need to make up my mind and order in the next month or so.

I am going with Louise tomorrow to the Mannings in Pennsylvania, I can't wait. I will keep you updated as to what I found and couldn't resist.

Sunny Day

2009-02-05T13:23:00.002-05:00

I am sitting here in my living room with the sun coming in the bay windows, it is beautiful. I of course like the cold weather, there is something about the winter landscape. I am sitting here waiting for them to deliver my new cabinets for my new kitchen, I can't wait. The contractor is coming Monday and the granite people are coming Thursday. The granite will take the longest. I am so excited, I have never had a brand new kitchen that I picked out. I am knitting on a feather and fan scarf and I have started my Vintage Bag by Nora Bellows. It is really easy and should knit up fast. I hope I am a little more organized, I have spent all morning putting papers away, etc.

The squirrels are playing on the deck, they are eating me out of house and home, but they and the birds are a welcome sight. There is always some kind of entertainment going on. The squirrels should join the circus they are quite the acrobats.

Have a wonderful day! I thought this picture would remind us spring is coming.

Waiting On The Phone

2009-01-22T10:11:00.002-05:00

I am sitting in my lovely living room, with the sun streaming in, waiting on the phone for Capital One to answer. I have at this point been holding for at least a half an hour. This is ridiculous especially since they have my money and can't find it. I have been working on the shawl in Hydrangea and have it almost done. I am also working on my elegant cowl/hood. I will get them done. I have picked up the pink sweater and am working on the right front. I really should finish it, it will be nice for spring. I finally got to talk to a person and they still could not tell me where my money is. I don't know which is worse getting lost in the mail or lost in cyberspace. Such is life. I guess I need to get up from here and do some work. I will get some knitting in today.

A January Day

2009-01-11T16:11:00.002-05:00

I am just sitting here on the computer with nothing specific in mind to do. I have just downloaded some darling pictures about knitting. Most are vintage prints, I just typed in women knitting and this was one of the websites. It is gray and cold today a good day to sit and knit. The house is quiet and very cozy. As I look out my bay window there are two cardinals in the trees, the really stand out in the gray of their surroundings. The crazy one is back and hitting the window again. The squirals have left for now, but they will be back. Well I guess that is all for now. This little dog was so Cute, I want one like it, maybe someday.

My Beautiful New Yarn Bowl

2009-01-06T15:42:00.004-05:00

I want everyone to see this beautiful yarn bowl. It was created by Charlene Randolph of CAR Ceramics in Savage Mill, MD. Her website is http://www.clayations.com/. I am a very proud owner of one of her new yarn bowls. Roadweaver and I were at her studio before Christmas and told her about the yarn bowls, she sketched out some designs and told us she would have some samples after Christmas. This is one of her bowls. She is going to make more. Her pottery is absolutely gorgeous, it is very pretty and anything but ordinary. Her designs are fresh and inventive and I am eyeing one of her tea pots. If you can get to her studio you are in for a treat.

The New Year and All Its Possibilities

2009-01-03T20:16:00.004-05:00

It is already the 3rd of January 2009, how time flys when you are having fun. Our house is getting back to normal. I purchased the Expedite bookshelf from Ikea for my sewing room. It looks nice in the store, but I will never buy one again. It took my husband and I, more my husband than me 5 hours to put it together. The pegs seemed to big and they would break through the veneer. I know a lot of people love this case and have it, but never again.

I am looking over my projects in progress and deciding what to work on next. I want to make the Otterwise Shawl in Anj's yarn so you can see how beautiful it knits up. I will be starting that soon. I hope it snows this winter, I like one or two good snows. But of course I just like the cold.

I am really excited, we are getting a new kitchen, really just new cabinets, with an added pennisula and granit counter tops. I can't wait!!! There is one down side though, I will be without a kitchen for a while , and eating out gets tiring after a while. I guess we will have to go to my mom and dads for supper.

Well I need to get back to arranging my bookshelves, so this is all for know.

Winter and The Weather

2008-12-16T19:29:00.003-05:00

Since I have the Flu there isn't much for me to do. I hate this Saturday I got the flu and thought I was recovering today (Tuesday) but now I seem to be getting a cold. But enough of my BooHooing. It has done everything here today, rained, snowed, sleeted, and rained again. All we need is thunder and we will have a smorgasbord of weather. I haven't done much knitting lately, but last Thursday, Roadweaver and I went to Savage Mill and I got to meet Laura Bellows, Nora's sister. She is delightful, and I was able to order handles and bought feet for my Vintage Bag. I better get started, since this is going to be a one of a kind bag. Laura has a lovely studio and is very welcoming. We also stopped in at a studio beside hers where a lady does beautiful ceramics. We told her about the yarn bowls and she is going to do some prototypes. Her designs are fantastic, even in rough draft. Christmas is coming soon but I think I am ready or as ready as I am going to be.

Hoping for a White Christmas (one of my favorite movies)!

Snow

2008-12-07T19:01:00.004-05:00

We got the first snow of the season on Saturday night and Darby and I were stuck in our car on I-70 for over 3 hours at a stand still. We left Baltimore at 4:45 pm and got home at 11:30 pm. We sat on I-70 at Rt. 27 for at least 3 hours not moving. We finally, like about 50 other cars, got turned around and went the wrong way on the on ramp to 70 to get home. We stopped at McDonalds in Mt. Airy, off Rt 27, and finally got home at 11:30. I don't want to do that again. Of course I did have my knitting and got some rows done. We are lucky I had just gotten gas or we may have had to turn the car off. My brother spiked a fever and was admitted to John Hopkins on Friday, but he is doing better and will likely go home on Monday. They say this is not unusual but it still worries us. Please continue to keep Chip, Cindy and the girls in your prayers. It is cold and Blustery today so we stayed in.

Well Thanksgiving Is Over, On With The Show

2008-11-30T18:58:00.002-05:00

Well my favorite holiday is over and now we get ready for Christmas. We had a nice Thanksgiving, but it wasn't the same without my brother and his wife and girls. He is scheduled to have the bone marrow transplant on Tuesday. My sister is the donor and will be here for the next week or so. Please keep them all in your prayers.

I have my Christmas shopping pretty much underway. I did most of it on line, but still have some stores to go to. Of course I knitted a few things. I can't wait for the Frederick Folks get together on the 19th it will be so much fun. Well that is about all for now. Please continue to prayer for Chip my brother.

Good Day to Stay Cozy and Warm Inside

2008-11-16T12:02:00.004-05:00

I love cold blustery days like today, you can snuggle up and knit. You know the Bible says Sunday is a day of rest and lately that is what Darby and I have been doing, it is really great. I am still working on my Wicked Sweater, and waiting to get my square needles to start a neck warmer for my mom for Christmas. It is made out of Rowan Kidhaze Mohair in pink and it will be so soft. I have finished a good deal of Christmas shopping, most if not all of it done on the computer, what a wonderful invention, the internet (Thank You AL Gore, lol). I will be having Thanksgiving so I better get my list made up. I was watching Divine Design and Candace put a 10' farm table in a dining room that was fairly formal and it looked great. I love my dining room set, but the table is oval and it is difficult to set ten people. I wonder if I can convince Darby to look at a new dining room table. I can only wish. While that is about all, I better get up and do some straightening up.

Stitches East

2008-11-09T13:07:00.003-05:00

Well I went to Stitches East for the first time. It was quite an adventure. I have to say I have the most wonderful husband in the world. He just sat upstairs and read as long as I wanted to shop. He called me, not to say he wanted to go, but just to see if I wanted lunch. I could have stayed as long as I wanted. My feet and back by that time had, had it and I was ready to go. I found there was of course a lot of yarn, but none that really wowed me except Shalimar and Serendipitious Ewe. Everybody else seemed to have the same thing and the same colors, but Kristi and Angela had different colorways and I think their booth really stood out. Also a lot of the yarns I touched were rather rough, I don't know if that was the quality or just the way the yarn was suppose to feel. I was surprised to see some major internet retailers there, which surprised me. I purchased a sea grass basket from Ghana and a bowl made of reed, they are beautiful. There were some vendors there with jewelry and shawl pins that were very beautiful. The most amazing yarn was the Jelly yarn, the kind they make the jelly shoes from. I don't know if i would buy it , but it was interesting to touch and look at. I saw a few friends there throughout my adventure and of course we all were buying. They had a vendor there selling Quivat, but it was $80 a ball and I really couldn't justify it. Well I guess that is about it.

Ruminations

2008-10-31T12:31:00.007-04:00

I haven't written much lately, but I have been busy knitting. I have finished all the repeats on the Wicked sweater and I am ready to remove the stitches for the sleeves. I want to make sure it fits under the arms before I proceed. The weather here has been cool and I love it. Tonight is Halloween so I will not be home. I will be knitting at Borders tonight. I like this time of year and really love November and December. I love Thanksgiving and don't like it when retail ignores it. Christmas has all of December, let's let the Turkey have his day. Please keep my brother in your prayers, he is having a bone marrow transplant. That is it for now.

Indian Summer

2008-10-12T15:17:00.003-04:00

I know many people like indian summer, but I don't. Give me cool weather anyday. I finally got the Ella Coat cast on and I am waiting for my number nine harmony needle tips, I seem to have lost one. This will be a major project for me, stay tuned for my progress. I am still working on the cardigan and I am taking the Wicked Sweater Class at Eleganza on Thursday. Darby and I are going to Frostburg, MD on Monday to see his Aunt at the nursing home. I love to go to Frostburg at this time of year, it is cooler and the colors are perfect right now. I am going to take my camera and have told Darby we are driving farther west towards Grantsviile on the old road. The scenery and vista's there are breathtaking.

We need rain here, especially since we just planted grass seed. Catherine, our daughter, is working nights at Bethesda Naval in the NICU, I hope this doesn't give her any health problems, her doctor told me this is not good for her, since she has PCOS. She loves working with the preemies, she calls them her babies. Darby and Dawn are pretty much ready for their wedding, even though it is a year away.

My brother is going through Chemo to prepare for the bone marrow transplant, please keep him in your prayers.

I guess that is all for know.

It Is Raining Today and Cooler

2008-09-26T12:41:00.004-04:00

It is raining today and cooler. I like cool weather, 50's or below. I am progressing on my cardigan, it is about 45% done. I still ask for your prayers for my brother, he needs a bone marrow transplant. I am still working on my two socks on two circulars, this is fun. Not much is happening, I am just knitting along. I did get the Nora Bellows Ella Coat pattern and yarn. I have to wind the 11 skeins of yarn into balls, and the cast on is a provisional cast on,( about 300 stitches). It will be beautiful when I am finished, it is a major project for me. I also bought the pattern for her felted vintage bag.

Rain Rain Go Away

2008-09-06T13:27:00.006-04:00

It is raining cats and dogs, since early this morning. I am continuing to work on my cardigan and have started knitting two socks on two circulars. I am planning to go to the meet and greet for Nora Bellows at Eleganza Yarns, I hope the weather is better than today. I ask for prayers for my brother who needs a bone marrow transplant. We are all hopeful, my sister and I are matches, but the doctor wants to test my brothers oldest daughter to see if she is a match. Being younger she would be a better choice, if she matches.

Until there is more news....

Trying To Knit Lace

2008-08-24T19:04:00.002-04:00

I went to Eleganza's Sunday Sojourn, Lace scarf. I am going to get this if it is the last thing I do. It is one pattern I need no distraction to be able to do. I have recast on 4 times and finally knit one row. My family was making so much noise I had to stop. I hope to get more knitting done tomorrow since I have to take the phones for work. It won't be the lace scarf though. The weather is really hot and muggy but should change by Tuesday. I can't wait for fall, I hate this hot weather. September 10, 2008 can't get here soon enough we are going to Ocean City for some really relaxing time together, Darby and I.

A Gorgeous Day

2008-08-11T22:15:00.004-04:00

It was beautiful today, a taste of fall. I wish the rest of the summer could be like this. I have given up on knitting two socks on one circular, magic loop, but I am going to try knitting socks on 2 circulars. I have started a new cardigan and I think I am going to start on a pullover using Calmer by Rowan. Knitting is so relaxing and I can't keep my hands off the needles. We are driving to Frostburg, MD on Friday and I plan to take my knitting. We have a wedding in October in Raleigh NC, some nice long hours to knit.

My Stash

2008-08-08T21:17:00.001-04:00

It is growing by leaps and bounds

Neil Diamond

2008-08-07T01:09:00.000-04:00

I know this has nothing to do with knitting, but we saw Neil Diamond last night at the Verizon Center and he rocks. Two hours of non-stop music and entertainment. Neil was either singing or talking all of those two hours. Pretty Amazing Grace is his latest and it is a beautiful song. He never disappoints and every time we see him it is different. Some of the same songs but with a new twist. His band is fantastic and the percussionist is a real hoot.

I am going to pitch and stitch with the Frederick Keys, can't wait.

Why Does It Take so Long?

2008-08-03T19:19:00.000-04:00

Why does it take so long to put the finishing touches on a project? I am doing the second armhole and have the neck edging left. Will I ever get it done? It is beautiful today. A nice breeze and not so hot. I am going to start on my cardigan and maybe a scarf for my daughter. The socks are still there, I just haven't worked on them lately.

Slowly Working on Finishing the Sweater

2008-07-31T20:59:00.000-04:00

I got my needles and am starting to finish the neckline and armholes. I got started at sit and knit at Eleganza tonight, thanks Angie for all your help. I really want to start on my cardigan and a few other projects. The more I knit the more I love it. My friends at Eleganza are the best, we talk about everything and the support is great.

Sweater Finally

2008-07-28T12:08:00.000-04:00

I finally finished the shell, I am waiting for my Harmony Needles from knit picks to finish the neck and armhole edges. Why buy #4's when they are coming in the mail. I can't wait to get my needles everyone raves about them. I want to start two new sweaters. I got quite a few new yarns on Saturday at Eleganza's Midnight Madness sale. Most had a specific project in mind, but a few were impulse buys. Don't tell my husband. I am going to spread out all my yarns on the dining room table and take a picture of them. My stash is bigger than I thought.

Finished My First Sweater

2008-07-16T18:50:00.001-04:00

I just finished the front of my first sweater and will be seaming it together within the next day or so. I can't wait to wear it. I just need to put a finished edge on the arm holes and V-neck. I feel great and want to start a new sweater right away. Also want to start those 2 socks on one circular.

Its Really Hot Today

2008-07-07T15:08:00.000-04:00

It is really hot today so I am staying inside. Trying to remember my passwords and usernames for the blogs and everything else is sometimes confusing. I am about 65% finished on my first sweater, I am really excited to wear it. I want to start a new one soon. If my chronic fatigue would let up a little, I might be able to do more. But such is life. At least I can sit and knit most of the time. If I am to tired I can't concentrate. Well that's all for today.

New At Blogging

2008-07-01T11:19:00.000-04:00

I am new at this blogging thing, so bear with me. I have had quite a week. Two very lovely people in my life died. I know they are in heaven and I am sure Edie is knitting the perfect sweater. I don't like the hot weather, I can't go out in it for to long and I hate a closed up house. I like Spring and Fall