OF SWIFTS (as in yarn) AND NOT SO SWIFT (that's me)

A Sad Day in Pittsburgh

2009-04-09T13:04:00.005-04:00

Rest in Peace.....................

Officer Kelly

Officer Sciullo

Officer Mayhle

http://community.post-gazette.com/media/g/stantonheightsshootingmemorials/default.aspx?Sort=PostDate&PageIndex=1

Well, it's been a long, long time !

2009-03-28T10:03:00.002-04:00

I know, I know......................I've really been a very bad blogger and I also know a said I'd blog today. You know, the details of the roving I dyed, but ya see, my sister just called and asked if I wanted to go do some shopping today. And well, let's see...............sit at home on the computer, trying to remember how to download pics to blogger or spend some fun time shopping with sis ?
Shopping with sis ! Sorry............................I promise I will get the roving stuff up, Monday at the latest.

But thanks to Andy, I can get back to my old blog. No need to start a new one !

Have a great weekend !!!

At Last an FO

2008-02-02T14:14:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to share with you the really cute hat from Deneen's Pattern. Sorry the pictures aren't better, not sure if it's my new camera or me, but if I had to guess I'd say it's me.
I only changed the hook sizes to fit a smaller head. It's for my 9 year old grand-niece and she's on the petite side. I used an I and a J hook and followed the pattern exactly. The yarn is Redheart Super Saver in Petal Pink and Lion Brand Fun Fur in Figi, both currently available at Walmart.
The hat is being modeled by my paper towels, not my grand-niece, unfortunatly I forgot my camera when I gave it to her yesterday. But it was a hit, she wore it the entire time we shopped, which was about 4 hours.

Hmm.......... this hat with a Snuggly Scarf using the same yarns, I'm thinking cute sets for next Christmas.

Hey I'm Still Here .......

2008-01-31T16:33:00.000-05:00

I know, I know it's been a few weeks, no pictures, although there has been some knitting and crocheting. I did test a pattern for Deneen, really, really cute hat. And I've begun my first real knitting project, a baby blanket from this pattern on Sweaterbabe.com. Believe it or not, thanks to Andy's help I'm making it twice as big too, more in another post about the really great yarn I'm using too.

Check out where I'll be on Feb. 10 and not only will I be there, I'll be taking a class by Robyn Chachula, you know Crochet by Faye. The person that has the cover pattern on the new Crochet Me book. I'm really excited about it ! I've been crocheting basically forever and have never taken a class, I'm gonna learn sooo much ! I can't believe how lucky I am, Robyn is really talented and I'll be in her class trying to soak up some of her knowledge. But first I have to pick a pattern for my favorite granny square and have 2 crocheted for the class. Did I say I was excited....

Oh, the robins are still here despite some really cold temps. They are staying huddled low on the ground, all puffed up most of the time, but they haven't left.

I'll try to be back soon....................................

Lookin' Out My Back Door or Can Spring Be Far Behind

2008-01-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

I was on the hillside behind my house this morning, with one of my dogs (this is his favorite spot to poop) When I thought I heard a robin..... no, couldn't be, they aren't here yet, not at least for another month or more. I heard it again, then I saw it, actually it was a pair of robins. This may not seem odd to some of you , but it's strange to see robins in January in this part of the world. So I took the dog inside and grabbed my camera, because I knew no one would believe me and here is what I saw.............
Not just two robins but an entire flock of them.

I know it's difficult to tell but there are several in the picture above.

Here we have one perched it all of it's red-breasted glory.

Another one looking for worms.................

And yet another, just hanging out..............

The pictures aren't as clear as I would have liked, but I couldn't get too close to them. Unlike the chickadees, they tend to fly away when you get too close.

I'm just wondering what the heck robins are doing here this early. Does this means an early spring or are the birds being stupid this year !?!

Happy New Year !

2007-12-31T15:36:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe how quickly time flies ! It seems as if we were just saying how hot it the summer is and bang, it's New Year's Eve. No big plans for this evening, my sister and brother-in-law will be here for games and sauerkraut and pork and weenies at midnight.

My Christmas was nice, Santa was good to me, but more about that another time soon. Which brings me to my resolution for 2008, and that's to be a better blogger. For that to happen I may have to explore other options, because blogger hasn't been kind to me for a while, thus I haven't been posting.

Anyway, I've got to get some potatoes peeled, mashed potatoes go so good with sauerkraut and pork.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL !!

May 2008 find us all healthy and happy.

Alive and Well

2007-11-06T19:47:00.000-05:00

Just a quickie to let you know I'm doing well.

I have several things I want to show you, but I have to wait for my new camera. Yep, the old one is almost dead and a new one has been ordered and should be here soon !

The weather is suddenly a bit blustery, perfect for all of my yarn play :)

Have a great week !

Happy Halloween !

2007-10-31T12:33:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween !!!!!

Have fun, be safe and don't eat too much candy !

Aaahhhhhhhhh Autumn

2007-10-19T15:09:00.001-04:00

When asked what my favorite season is, I alway seem to hesitate because I like them all. Winter with it's cold, crisp nights and moon light glistening off of the snow. Spring when everything seems to come alive again with it's yellow green color and crocus peeking through the grass and daffodils. Summer with it's balmy nights and roses and warm fresh tomatoes straight from the vine. But autumn, autumn seems to overwelm my senses. The leaves all red, orange, yellow and brown and the smell of them, I love how they smell. I love to walk through the newly fallen leaves all crunchy and smelling so good. And there are the first smells of fireplaces and thoughts turn to cuddling with the one I love.
Yes I'd have to say that autumn is my favorite, it's the season I missed the most when I lived in Florida. Every year as part of my birthday gift my sister would send me a bag of leaves and I'd always open the bag before I opened my real gift. I'd open it and take a huge wiff ..................then I'd dump them out and just look at them for a while, admiring all of their beauty.
No, the leaves above aren't ones that my sister sent me many years ago. They're fresh from my backyard. Yep dorky as it sounds I go around my yard and pick out what I think are the prettiest, just like little kids do. Yep, autumn is my favorite.

So what's your favorite season ?

Knitter's Coffeswap Three Questions

2007-10-17T12:48:00.000-04:00

I didn't think I made the cut for this swap, but I did !

So here's the low down:

1. Whole bean or ground? Whole bean

2. Fully-loaded or decaf? Decaf, unfortunately I can't do caffine anymore :(

3. Regular or flavored? I'm not picky, I love to try new things

4. How do you drink your coffee? With creamer only

5. Favorite coffee ever? Hmmmmm, that's a tough one, lately I've been into hazelnut

6. Are you fussy about your coffee or will any old bean do? Not fussy at all

7. Favorite treats to have with your coffee? Cookies, either sugar or chocolate chip

8. Anything else about your coffee preferences? Nope only the decaf thing

9. Yarn/fiber you love? I love baby alpaca, so soft and warm

10. Yarn/fiber you hate? I can't honestly say that there is a yarn I hate, but I'm not too fond of the older "squeaky" acrylics

11. What's on your needles? I'm just a beginning knitter and right now nothing is on my needles, however as a crocheter on my hook I have 2 afghans and one sweater

12. Favorite colors? greens, blues, purples, rich reds

13. Allergies? None

14. Anything you really love, really don't like, or just need to get off your chest? Nope

Latest Scores !

2007-10-13T11:48:00.000-04:00

Not a whole heck of a lot of playing with yarn, up until just a few days ago it was just too warm to be in much of a yarn mood. But there has been a big weather change and at last it feels like fall.
Even though I haven't been making anything doesn't mean I can't buy more yarn.....................right ;)
Here's a shot of my purchases over the last few days.

This is from Knitwits, they're having a sale and my sister and I rode out Wednesday night.

As you can see, I didn't go crazy, only 4 skeins. Two of Cascade Quatro in a really pretty combo of green and purples color #9439. Also two skeins of Autumn House Farm finneans in mountain lilac colorway, it's a beautiful combo of lilac, tan, blue/green with flecks of off white .

Then yesterday (friday) Ralph had to go to Johnstown, PA, so I went along for the drive, hoping to see some nice fall foliage. I also decided to see if there were any LYS in the area and as luck would have it there was !

It's called Blacksmith Exchange a quaint little shop with collection of antiques and yarn. Very friendly and a really great idea to display the two together. They didn't have a very big selection because it is a small place, but I still managed to find something. Two skeins of Mission Falls 1824 Wool in color 664, it's 100% merino superwash and very soft ! And more Autumn House Farm yarn, this time baby alpaca in Fox grape colorway, because this is baby alpaca the softness is amazing as are the colors in this colorway. I must say that I really like Autumn House Farm yarns and not because it's a semi-local spinner, it's just really nice stuff.

This all four skeins of the Autumn House Farm yarn, I thought they looked very autumn-like so I wanted to share another picture.

We were also going to stop at Kathy's Kreations on our way home, but we were a bit longer than we thought, but tomorrow ! Ah yes, tomorrow we'll be going back ! Not only to Kathy's but it's also Fort Ligonier Days, so we'll do some looking at some really nice "stuff"

Because we didn't stop yesterday, Ralph was feeling bad so when we stopped at the bookstore for a bathroom break and some coffee, he got me Crazy Aunt Purl's new book, Drunk, Divorced & Covered in Cat Hair.

Oh, we also stopped at a roadside stand and got some Jonagold apples for a pie, some Fuji's for eating and some yummy concord grapes. Just because they looked so pretty and fall-like here's their picture too :)

Have a great weekend !

FO and Other Stuff

2007-09-21T15:04:00.000-04:00

I finished the 'ghan I was making for a wedding gift, I got the pattern here. Instead of making it in two colors I chose to use only one, Red Heart Soft in off white. It really is a quick easy pattern, no mistakes, I added one row of single crochet around the entire 'ghan to make it look more finished. I've made sure that I have a copy of this pattern, I think it will be one that I make again.

I got the new Lily Chin book Everyday Crochet. It has some cute things in it, just as I expected and uses the base ch/sc. In this book she gives a very wide size range and the patterns "build" on each other, a really interesting concept. I see a few items from the book in my future.

I also have the latest issue of Crochet Today , I really like this magazine ! Lots of great patterns including two from ladylinoleum .One is a really cute tree skirt and the other is a Stained Glass Afghan that is really incredible, I'm thinking that I have to make the 'ghan.

Happy October !

I'm Late !!!

2007-09-12T13:38:00.000-04:00

Late with this post, that is. I was lucky enough to be one of the winners of a blog contest that Bron had.

I got this book, which has lots of really great patterns.

I absolutely fell in love with this.
The back view.

The pattern calls for Sirdar Yo-Yo yarn, I didn't want to substitute yarn because I really liked the way this looks, so I began my on-line search. I found out it here , because it's so pricey I wasn't sure if I wanted to get it. Well after some thought and drooling over it and looking at it several times, I finally broke down and order it. It took a little while to get here, but this morning the yarn arrived. I didn't realize how huge the skeins would be.

It looks and feels so nice, so I'll be swatching this afternoon !

And I would definately buy from Wool Needlework .com
again, customer service was fantastic. I emailed 3 or 4 times and they were very prompt and friendly with their replies.

Happy International Crochet Day !

I've Been Cheating !!!

2007-09-05T17:16:00.000-04:00

I have to confess, I've been cheating on my crocheting (gasp!) I've wanted to learn how to knit for a long time and I've tried several times in the past 15 years or so, but to no avail. It's not that I don't still love crochet, I do and always will, I just wanted some options. I finally realized that continental is the way I should go and guess what !?! It worked !!!! I found the orginal Stitch and Bitch the most useful, I totally got how to do the long tail cast on and the knit stitch. Now pirl is being a bit difficult, but I'm not going to give up. But let me show you the fruits of my labor.

This is my very first knitting ever !

And just because I'm so proud of myself, a close up of my very own knitting

It only took me about two hours to knit that. I won't be setting any speed records but that's okay.

And to prove I haven't been neglecting Miss Crochet, a look at what I think is a really pretty shawl. I got the pattern from Sweater Babe .com and I used the GGH Soft Kid I got from Spirit Work. The pattern is well written and is an easy repeat so it whipped up quick and easy.

Just a close of of the pattern, isn't it pretty.

I made a second one in black, but this time I used Classic Elite La Gran Mohair, also from Spirit Work. It's still really nice, but due to the "hairy-ness" the stitch definition isn't really there. But it seems as if it will be toasty warm.

I'm also working on this 'gahn , for a wedding gift. I'm using Red Heart Soft in off white for the entire 'ghan. I'm using a new hook too, I saw these earlier this year in one of the crochet magazines and finally decided to try them. While they're no Jimbo hook, they are really nice to work with.

Speaking of Jimbo, have ya heard about International Crochet Day on September 12. If you haven't heard about it, hop on over to Jimbo's and get all the details. I know 'bout the only thing I'll be doin' that day is some crochet.

I have more to add about my knitting, but I'll save that for my next post.

Thanks to Deneen for letting me know how to get these pictures posted. It wasn't blogger at all, it was photobucket. I had to use the direct link thing-y.

Why Can't I Post Pictures ?

2007-09-05T13:14:00.000-04:00

I've tried again, yesterday and today, blogger won't let me post pictures. I keep getting a message about my "html". It doesn't matter if I get the pictures from my photobucket account or my computer, the same error message comes up. I don't know why, I haven't changed anything :(

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

2007-09-03T13:50:00.000-04:00

I've been trying off and on for about three hours to post with some pictures and I can't !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess I'll try again tomorrow.

What Pet Would I Be ?

2007-08-23T12:49:00.000-04:00

I got this from Andy.

You Would Be a Pet Cat

Independent and aloof, you don't like to be dependent on anyone.

And as for other people, you can take them or leave them. You often don't care.

You live your life by your own rules. And you have deep motivations that no one truly understands.

Why you would make a great pet: You're not needy or greedy... unlike other four legged friends.

Why you would make a bad pet: You're not exactly running down to greet people at the door

What you would love about being a cat: Agility and freedom

What you would hate about being a cat: Being treated like a dog by clueless humans

What Kind of Pet Would You Be?

Lookie What I Made !!!

2007-08-10T14:04:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago tomorrow my brother, sister and I took a glass paperweight making class. It was held at the Pittsbugh Glass Center in conjunction with Chihuly at Phipps. We met at Phipps at 9AM for a tour, this was the third time we've been there while the Chihuly works are there. If you get a chance, go see his work, it's incredible ! And of course it all looks just as if it belongs, like the glass and plants have been there forever. Anyway, after the tour which ended around 10:30, we drove to Pittsburgh Glass Center, eating our lunch on the way. Our class started at 11:30 and we were excited, the three of us were like little kids ! Our class consisted of only 8 people total and with the exception of a mother and son the others were there alone. We had 2 instructors and we were all ready to make some glass, only one person complained about the heat. Duh, we're going to be working with molten glass(2000*F), did she think it was going to be cold.
After a brief description of what we were going to do and some safety tips, Brian, one of our instructors made a paperweight, to show us the process. Of course he made it look easy peasy and by the way he looked as if he was maybe 18 and Stephanie, the other instructor maybe 21, talented kids.
So now we're ready to start, each of them took one person, so two of us at a time were making paperweights. My brother was the first of the three of us to make his paperweight, so of course I watched very closely. Then it was my turn, Brian "gathered" the molten glass for me and handed me the gathering rod, with the molten glass on the end of it. You have to keep turning the rod or the glass will fall off, so I'm turning the rod and trying to put it in a metal bowl filled with colored glass chips at the same time. Not easy, but fun, just the same. There were eight different metal bowls with eight different colors of glass to choose from, we were to use only three colors. From there, we had to go to the "glory hole", to melt the just added glass pieces, all the while turning the orange glowing hunk of molten glass. Once the pieces have melted, I sat down at the bench thingy(can't remember the name) and started to create my own one of a kind paperweight. I took my tweezers (huge tweezers) and started to pull and twist the molten glass, while Brian kept the rod turning. The glass begins to cool very quickly, so you don't really have too much time to play. Once it had cooled to the point of not being able to manipulate, Brian went back and added some more molten glass, so we could begin to shape and round the paperweight. To do this you use a "block" which looks like a wooden soup ladle with a notch on one side, the block soaks in water all of the time, but it still begins to smoke rather quickly. As Brian turned the rod, I had to keep the block on the paperweight in order to make it round. This is where you really, really feel the heat on your arm, and also where you need some one to hold a wooden shield under your arm. The shield looks like wooden paddle that was used in schools, back in "the good old days"
At this point the paperweight is almost done and you still really don't know what it's going to look like because it's still so hot, that the center is orange. You can somewhat see the design, but not much. So you take the rod with the almost molten glass to another table, hold it upside down over a fireproof bunch of rags and hit the rod with a little bat and the paperweight falls off. Then Brian used a torch to heat up the bottom so it's orange hot again and I took a metal paddle and placed it on the bottom to flatten it.
All done, but it's much too hot to take home and besides that it can't just sit and cool, it has to be cooled in an annealer. This cools slowly so as not to crack the glass.
So the following Tuesday (they are closed mondays), Ralph and I went to pick up all of the paperweights.

And this is my final product

It's sitting on a light that I got at Ikea for a paperweight that I already had

I think it looks sooo cool !! And I made it !!!

And because our class was small, we were all able to make a second paperweight. I made this one for Ralph.

Isn't it neat....................

All 6 of the paperweights turned out really nice. And the three of us are considering taking another one day workshop to make something else. We're not sure if we want to try lampwork or maybe blowing next.

If you ever get the opportunity to work with glass, take it, I know you'll enjoy it.

Not So Local LYS

2007-08-07T14:28:00.000-04:00

I have a wedding to go to in late September and while I don't know what I'm wearing, I do know that I want to have a shawl or stole that I've made myself. So I went on a search for a pattern that I liked, first I perused my collection of books and magazines and of course nothing "struck my fancy". My search continued online, first I checked the free patterns, still nothing, okay now on to ones to buy. Aha !! I found two that I liked, one is this shawl and the other is this capelet .

After buying both patterns, my quest begins to find the proper yarn. I really do enjoy going to my LYS, to pet and feel the yarn, much better deals are usually found online. So I begin my search for the shawl yarn first, it calls for GGH Soft Kid, I find it a few places, so now I search for the best price. Which led me to Spirit Work, not only did they have it, it was on sale ! I placed my order a bit tenatively as I always do when I'm buying something for the first time from an online retailer.

Let me tell you what unbelievably fast and friendly service I got ! A confirmation email came it at 1:54 PM that my order was received and another email at 2:13 PM that my order had shipped. The order arrived yesterday, and look at how nicely it was packaged.

This what I saw when I opened the box, a hand written envelope, cute tissue paper and my yarn in a plastic bag all tied up with pretty pink ribbon.
Inside the envelope was a card, with a personal thank you written inside and at the bottom of the yarn bag is a small black box of something I didn't order.

It's a tape measure with the store logo and web site on it.

This is the very first time that when I've received my yarn in the mail that it actually seemed as if I purchased it at my LYS.

Needless to say, I've bookmarked Spirt Work and I'll be checking back when I'm ready to get some more yarn.

All Dressed Up and No Place to Go

2007-07-19T13:47:00.000-04:00

We had a water leak in out basement yesterday, most likely it's been there longer, we discovered it yesterday. The ceiling in the basement was dripping on the floor, and it's a finished ceiling, as in it's plaster not ceiling tiles. So that means we had to hammer the ceiling out in order to find the leak. The house was built in the "good ole days" of 1957, back when asbestos and other lovely things were okay to use. Not wanting to breathe any of this or get it on me, I "suited up" for the task.

Don't ask me why my right eye looks crossed, it must have been the way I was looking at the mirror. (ralph wouldn't take my picture, so i did the best i could) I'm wearing my workin' in the yard shirt that's about 10 sizes to big, but it keeps stuff off of me. Anywho the leak wasn't that bad, just a pipe that had been capped off years ago had a pin hole. A call to my wonderful BIL and it's fixed !

I forgot to post this picture earlier in the week, I did this over the weekend. This is from Amazing Lace Crochet ,the Anisette Vest done in Cascade Rio. It looks much better on than it does hanging on the door.

Now back to some laundry...........

Oops, it's the Abydos Vest ! Thanks Deneen.........

This and That

2007-07-17T11:58:00.000-04:00

After reading one of Deneen's posts, I thought, what the heck, let's see if I can get a Senseo too. It worked ! I got mine almost a week ago now. Yep, no gimmick, just the $15 postage. I found decaf pods at my local grocery store(yes!), it really does make good coffee. Thanks Deneen !

I've been crocheting too, working on a tapestry crochet bag. It's going to take a while to complete, using 3/2 pearl cotton and a size one steel crochet hook, all single crochet. It's one of the patterns in this book, look in the second row, second one over and you'll see what I'm attempting to make. I really like the way Carol Ventura writes her books, no guessing at all. Everything is written out and counted out for you, even though the charts are included. She even gives you some history of the craft.

I'm also crocheting a felted Entrelac Bag, it's from Webs. It's not done the way other entrelac crochet is, they've made it much easier. Pictures to follow, I'm using differnt brands of wool, dangerous for felting, but it's using up my stash.

My second Tote Exchange partner got her bag, so it's safe for me to show you what it ended up like
The pattern called for a zipper, but I'm not a good "zipper-putter-inner". So I opted for a button in the middle and two magnetic snaps, one by each handle.

The pattern came from Interweave Crochet , the Larger - Than - Life Bag done in Sugar 'n Cream. I really hope that she likes it !

I'm also waiting for my first tomato to finish ripening, it should be ready in another day or so.

MUST SEE video by a 15 year old girl

2007-07-14T19:02:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to share this, my brother emailed it to me earlier today.

The following is the hottest thing on the internet and on Fox News today.
Lizzie Palmer, who put this YouTube program together, is 15 yearsold.
There have been over 3,000,000 hits as of this morning.
In case you missed it, here it is
http://www.youtube.com/v/ervaMPt4Ha0&autoplay=1

More Tote Exchange Goodies

2007-07-07T18:09:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week I got my tote exchange bag from Deneen and I'm finally posting pictures ! Deneen really spoiled me, below is almost everything I got, missing is a ball of #8 Cannon thread she got from Mimi, which I'm trying out. The bag is really beautiful, it's fulled or felted, which ever term you prefer. She also sent a vintage booklet of potholders and some really nice roaving, and a couple of small hand creams.

Here's a better picture of just the tote

And the lining that she stressed over. I think it looks good.

And last but not least a close up of the cool button she chose for the closure.

Thank you sooo much Deneen. And I promise both you and Cat to finish lining your totes and to get them out.

Exchange Tote Bag

2007-06-21T14:33:00.000-04:00

I just love getting packages in the mail ! Especially when they have really nice stuff, like this tote bag. It was from Cat, one of my partners in the Tote Bag Exchange at Crochet Depot She said she'd never made a tote before and didn't even use a pattern ! It's lined really nicely

There is even a pocket on the outside

And because she's so sweet and remebered that I like vintage pattern books, she also sent me this
I've only glanced through the book, but I saw a few things I'd like to make.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Cat !

And one more picture, just because it's the first day of summer. I cut these this morning, the daisies are growing wild in part of my yarn and the fern is one that I planted a couple of years ago.

Happy Summer !

I Know I Should Have Been Crocheting But..............

2007-06-15T16:44:00.000-04:00

I really wanted a purse and I really like the jeans purses I've been seeing and I really wanted to take just a tiny break from crocheting and I finally found a pattern for what I wanted to make. So after finding this pattern on ebay yesterday, here is what I ended up with. What once was my most favorite pair of Levi's, that no longer fit, is now this

And lookie, it's lined and everything, as per the pattern.

I had the lining fabric on hand, the only thing that I didn't have was interfacing, but that was no biggie. It was really easy to put together, the pattern was written really well. I don't do much "pattern" sewing, in fact I haven't done much sewing (quilting) in quite some time, but I has this little baby done in a little over 2 hours. That even includes the time it took me to dig out the lining fabric. I used the purse today and I love it !

We had a great time at Phipps Conservatory too. I always enjoy it there, but add in the beautiful Chihuly glass and it was awe inspiring. More than once as we rounded a corner, we all "ooed and awed", as if we were watching fireworks, the glass is truly gorgeous !

The puppet was a hit, but the little stinker didn't let on that he liked it until we were leaving. As most 3 year olds, little Johnny was being somewhat shy, because he doesn't know me that well. So off and on I had the puppet talking to him, but the shy-ness was still winning out. But as we were leaving I took "Woofy" off of my hand and said, he's yours if you want to take him home. Well, "Woofy" was snatched out of my hand and before you could blink, little Johnny had the puppet on his hand.

On the way home I stopped and got what I needed for my second totebag, so tonight I'm getting my butt in gear to finish the first tote.

What I've Been Up To

2007-06-14T14:24:00.000-04:00

I've been busy crocheting, I have two tote bags to make for the exchange over at Crochet Depot. I have the first one about half way done and I had a change of plans for the second one, so now I need to get some more yarn. I can't post pictures here because I don't want either partner to see what they are going to get.

I also made another puppet for my great nephew. Meet Woofy, he's made from a kit I got awhile ago at my LYS. It's also available online at Judykits

Woofy's pattern was written very well, super easy to follow. Here's a couple more shots of him.

I'll be giving Woofy to my nephew tomorrow, my brother is babysitting and my sister and I will be meeting them at Phipps Conservatory
in the morning. Since my nephew doesn't know us that well, I thought a puppet was a good way to sort of break the ice.

Oh, I also ordered some roving to finish my needle felted bear, the darker roving didn't look right.

That's about it for now, sorry about the funky font stuff. I'm not quite sure how that happened.

Thanks for stopping by !

It's Not As If a Needed Another Craft

2007-06-07T15:18:00.000-04:00

Back in February I went to the 4th Annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival and among other things I bought a needle felting kit. I hadn't forgotten about it, I just hadn't pulled it out yet. Well after seeing this post from Ladylinoleum over at Monster Crochet about a month ago, there has been this little voice in my head, nagging me to give the felting a try. So I dragged out the stuff that I bought and here is what I have so far.

Not nearly as cool has her eyeballs, but this little guy was just sceaming out to me.

Every bear should have a bit of a belly, right.....................

And then I hit a snag...................this being my first attempt at needle felting, which I absolutely LOVE, I ran out of the camel colored roving before my little guy could get arms and legs. Now I'm in a quandry, do I make them a darker color underneath ? I have a redish brown roving, I'm planning on putting the gray over top of it anyway. I have to give it some thought.

Needle felting is very time consuming, but I'm finding also very easy, only a few stabbed fingers.

I also whipped up this TP cover from another vintage pattern from ebay.

I apologize for the crappy pictures, I'm still getting used to the camera software.

Now on to decide how I want to finish my bear.

Do You Remember ?

2007-06-05T16:31:00.001-04:00

Do you remember this post ? Ever since then I've been on a sort of quest for vintage patterns. I thought I'd share a few photos of some of the patterns I've collected so far. The following pictures are taken from three different magazines. Woman's Day Granny Squares Number 1 with a publishing date of 1973. Woman's Day Granny Squares Number 4 with a publishing date of 1976. And last but not least McCall's Step by Step Crochet Lesson for Beginners with a publishing date of 1970.

Are you ready...........................

First is this lovey Baroque Bedspread

Next is the beautiful Cuffed cardigan

The ever stylish Tyrol Hat ( the little girl looks a bit pissed off to me)

The one of a kind Harlequin Poncho

Maybe the Millefleurs Maxi-skirt is for you

Maxi not your style, then you'll love the Mosaic Skirt, complete with fringe

Need an afghan .............. how about the unique Mosaic Afghan

Every thing old is new again the Patchwork Table cloth has granny squares paired with gingham.

Feeling a bit romantic............how about the Romantic Victorian Vest

These last two I've included mainly for the model. I can't be positive, but this sure looks like Susan Dey, styling in her Bubble-Stitch Dress.

Another look at her, this time looking toasty warm in her Striped Scarf and Hat Set

So there you have it a short trip back to the good old days. Ahhh, the '70's....................

In all fairness to the designers, the color choices then were really awful ! Just what on earth were we thinking then !?!

I hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane of crochet.

I Really Do Crochet !

2007-06-02T13:14:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd post some pictures to prove that I really do crochet ! I have more to post but I'm not too good with the camera software on the laptop. With our old desktop, I just used the scanner/printer to edit the pictures. I can't do that now and I've been messing around for about an hour with the camera software.
Okay, I've had enough for one afternoon, but I did manage to get three photos from the camera to photobucket to blogger !! So consider me a happy camper.

Here's what I ended up with.

Meet Al E. Gator, he's made using a vintage puppet pattern I purchased on ebay, with only minor modifications. The original had both upper and lower teeth and no tongue. I made Al for my great nephew as part of his birthday gift for birthday #3.

Just another view of Al.

I also made another star throw, this one is for another nephew. He got a fantastic job in New York City at the beginning of the year and is finally moving into his own apartment. I'll post more about the details next time.

I've got to run, things to do ! Have a great weekend !

Just Grin and Bear It

2007-05-31T20:46:00.000-04:00

Well, it seems that Nationwide won out in the end. After dicussing the savings with Ralph and talking to a few people, that knew people that have Geico, we decided to stay with a "better" company. Why ? Well even though we were getting our information second and possibly even third hand, we were told that yes, Geico will honor their claims. However, they aren't too speedy about this. So pen in hand, I forced myself to write the check to Nationwide, as I could see skeins and skeins of yarn just waiting to be purchased with the extra money I could have had. Oh well !That's life I guess, I'm just happy that I'm in spot in my life where I had to make that choice. There was a time where it wouldn't have even been an option, I had to go with the less expensive company and take my chances.

See ya later..................

CAR INSURANCE !!!!

2007-05-30T13:52:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's that time of year again, the car insurance is due ! I understand the need for car insurance, but I can't help feeling really taken atvantage of when it comes to the cost. Currently we have Nationwide as our carrier and have for about 6 years. We have 3 vehicles, the newest is a 2003, then we have a 2001 and a 1997, no accidents or tickets at all and of course the premium has gone up. Why, you may ask, well, when I called my agency I was told by a very sweet woman that as the cost of car repairs increase so do the premiums. Okay, so we as consumers get screwed again, I thanked her and hung up the phone.

Well lo and behold in my mail today is a letter from Geico (don't cha love their little gecko) and it says that I can get a quote online. Well this is all me, I don't have to talk to anyone and I can see how much I'll save. It was really easy, especially since I have all of my current info on the renewal stuff that Nationwide sent out. It took me maybe 10 minutes to fill out the info on the Geico site and just a couple of minutes for their quote to pop up. And are you ready for this..............are ya sitting down..................Geico's rate is almost $400.00 a year cheaper ! Now I don't know about you, but to me $400.00 is a nice chunk of change, just think of all the yarn you could buy ! But here's my dilemma, no one I know has Geico insurance, so I don't know if they are really any good. So is it worth $400.00 a year if they suck as an insurance company ? I know that they've been around for a while, but so have lots of other "rip off" companies. Hmmmmmm, I'll have to discuss this with Ralph when he gets home.

Oh and on a complete different note, did ya see who commented on my last post ? Why it was Linoleum Lady herself !! Isn't that cool !?!

Until tomorrow............

Where does time go ?

2007-05-26T10:39:00.000-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it's been a month since I've blogged ! And I only have a few minutes now.

I haven't been online a whole lot lately, our desk top died. The blue screen of death appeared about 3 weeks ago and Ralph was using my laptop. Some of the photos that I had planned to post were still on the hard drive of the old computer and no place else, so they are gone-zo. But I promise that I will have more by next week.

So anyway, have a safe Memorial Day weekend and don't forget say a thanks for our fallen heros.

Yes I know

2007-04-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Yes, I know I said I'd post the pictures today. No, it isn't going to happen.
Ralph, my dear sweet husband has given me his cold. I'm so sleepy, but my nose keeps running and I keep sneezing, oh hold on a sec.............. Sorry, a couple of sneezes crept up on me. And I'm freezing, I can't seem to get warm today, plus my poor nose is beginning to get red and sore. Enough of my complaining, I'm going back to the couch.

Lots of Crocheting, But No Pictures :(

2007-04-28T10:53:00.000-04:00

I've been trying to upload pictures for almost an hour now and good ol' blogger isn't cooperating. But just let me tell you what I've been doing....... I crocheted a purse using Lion Suede using a pattern that I made up (a first), Anisette Vest from Amazing Lace Crochet is complete, Sweet Pea from SNB Crochet is done, Chaco the Parrot Puppet is all crochet he just needs assembled, I'm in the middle of the Tropical Silk Sweater Crocheted Cover- up , I've also started on the Pistachio Parfat Ruana also from Amazing Lace Crochet. The Ruana uses the same pattern stitchs as the Allegheny Moon Mobius, so I'm doing this first just to see how it works up, so far so good. I'm also planning on making the Flower Power Vest (i love this book !) , I just got my yarn for it yesterday.
I've been a busy little bee, just crocheting my fingers to the bone and doing as little housework as possible (lol) Hopefully blogger will let me post the pictures by Monday !

Tragedy at Virginia Tech

2007-04-17T15:53:00.000-04:00

My heart goes out to all of those that were personally touched by yesterday's tragedy.
May all of those lost, rest in peace and those that survived, find peace.

I've spent most of the day glued to the TV in disbelief, wondering how such a young man could have been so troubled as to take so many lives, including his own. This happening at a time in life that should be filled with partying and having fun, being care free for perhaps the last time in life.

We can only hope that this is not repeated.

Hi my name is............

2007-04-16T15:30:00.000-04:00

Hi my name is Naomi and I'm an addict...............a yarn addict.
Truely I am and the fact that I don't even have to leave home to feed my addiction makes it tough to stop. As you can see it's been over a month since my last post and no, I haven't used up all of my "new" stash yet, but I want more ! There's something so pleasing about new yarn, it doesn't matter if it arrives in the mail or I go to my LYS. Ah, yes, an LYS, don't you just love the smell of all of the yarn and the color explosion that you see when you walk in the door ? Then there is ebay, not to mention all of the online places to buy yarn, and the people who give me yarn. What's a girl to do ? Must restrain from buying more yarn, no, don't need the light weight cotton for summer, but I want some..............
My name is Naomi and I am a yarn addict......................

Major Stash Enhancer

2007-03-10T09:44:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week I felt the need to add to my stash. It's not as if I needed yarn, but I wanted yarn. I needed to visit my almost LYS and fondle some yarn. I say almost local because there are 2 others that are closer, but Ralph had to go to Greenburg and I accompanied him. He dropped me off at Knit Wits , and I did some major damage to my "stash cash". Here's what I got !!

4 Scoubidu's (2 pink, 2 blue), I'm not quite sure what I'm going to do with it but it was 50% off and I liked it ! Then we have some Cashmerino Chunky (to the right), moving back some Autumn House Farm , Finneans Rainbow in wisteria, continuing on Outback Mohair (0858) , then some Eros(4796) and 24K(1362), and last but not least some Kid Seta in Mood Ring (631).
So for your viewing pleasure a few close-ups........................

First we have the Kid Seta, it's so soft, it's almost like nothing is there ! I want to make the Allegheny Moon Mobius from Amazing Crochet Lace (cool patterns!) I thought this color way would look good with jeans.

Onto the Eros and 24K, they really look amazing together ! I'm not usually a fan of nylon yarns, but these two really look so good together and they don't feel bad either. I'm making a shawl from these an it's working up to look great ! The 24K has some real sparkle to it as you can see, and the colors in the Eros are very rich looking.
And then we have the last of the close ups, the Outback Mohair, which by the way comes in a really large skein. And the Finneanns Rainbow.
Do I know what I'm doing with all of this .................. well sort of, at least everything but the Scoubidu (but it's really soft and it was 50% off)
Needless to say I did some real $$ damage too, but I have been stashing some cash for yarn and I didn't spend it all ! I had $10.00 and some change left over and it's still stashed away.
I've got lots of projects going at the moment too, I've started a Monet Afghan for myself, thanks to Drew, The Crochet Dude for such a great free pattern, I'm also working on something with some of my vintage yarn, and I just got some baby seagrass in the mail to make the cool hat that Pam Gillette made on Uncommon Threads. Plus potholders and 12 inch squares for an exchange. Whew................... I'd better get off the computer and start crocheting....................
Hope you enjoyed my stash enhancement!!!!!!!!

FO's

2007-02-27T15:06:00.000-05:00

Wow, time sure does fly ! I had intended to post some pics before this, better late than never. Unfortnately I don't always remember to get a picture before something is gone.
So here are only a few things. First is the 7 point star afgan, it's a super easy pattern and it's done in threadart chenille. Unbelievably soft, it could be a little bigger, the next one will be.
Then we have a picture of my Snuggly Scarf and hat, this is done in some Red Heart Baby Soft that I had in my stash. The hat is about half of a skein and the scarf is one full skein plus the leftover half from the hat. The combo is very warm.

And last but not least is this hat that is done from some handspun I had in my stash,there were two complimentary colors.This is my dog walking hat, it's great to plop on in the morning to hide the "bed head"I still haven't finished the afghan for my sister, it's about half done and I've put it on hold. Since I've started it she's decided she wants new livingroom furniture and I'm waiting to see if my color choice is okay. But I have started a Monet Afghan . I made one a while ago, but it wasn't for me,so I've started one to fit on my bed.

I think that's about all for today..............

Need to Vent

2007-02-17T19:02:00.000-05:00

This is just going to be a quick post to let off a bit of steam.

My garage door has been squeeking for quite a while and had gotten to the point of almost being unbearable. So I took some good ole WD40 a couple of days ago and sprayed every place that squeeked. Well don't you know that one of the wheels of the stupid thing came off of the track today ! Of course dear Ralph thinks my curing the squeek with WD40 caused this to happen !
Ahhh, husbands..................what would we do without them !?!

Vintage Acrylic Yarn

2007-02-16T14:02:00.000-05:00

I'm the lucky receipiant of lots of vintage yarn ! My cousin called and said that she came across some yarn and a few magazines that belonged to my aunt. Then she asked if I wanted it. How could I say no ? First of all it belonged to my dear aunt, which makes it super special and second, who among us doesn't want to add to their stash at no cost. This is what it consisted of...............

As you can see, lots of truely vintage stuff, one even has a price sticker of 47 cents ! I'm not quite sure yet what I'll do with all of it , but some of it will become an afghan or maybe just a lapghan for me. And I just got these vintage books in the mail yesterday, I ordered them before I knew I was getting any yarn. That's another thing to make you go hmmmmmmmmmmmm.

I have been crocheting also, but have only taken a few photos, which I'll save for the next post. I've made several hats for a friend of Ralph's that has just started chemo, an amigurumi crochet giraffe for my nephew's wife, a couple of hats for me and another Snuggly Scarf (i love, love,love this scarf) this one is for me. I'm also working on an afghan for my sister and another for my nephew. I threw in some of the smaller stuff to break the boredom of working on afghans. They really look good when finished but are a bit boring to work on.

So stop back soon, I promise there will be more pictures to see ..................

Things that make you go hmmmmmmmmm

2007-02-14T13:09:00.000-05:00

Where does the time go !?! I can't believe how long it's been since my last post ! Let me wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day ! I hope you get to spend it with some one you love.

Now on to the things that make you go hmmmmmmmmmm............................................................

A week ago last Friday my aunt passed away, my Mum's sister. Mum will be gone 22 years in April and I need to share a little story about her first.

I moved to Florida in 1984, being the "baby" in my family I was definately Mum's favorite (at least i like to think so) Anyway, after being in Florida a short time, my telephone rang one weekday afternoon and it was Mum ! This was really unusual because we only talked on Sundays (long distance calls were more expensive then and weekend rates were less) The first thing Mum said to me was, everything is okay, but I just heard this song on the radio and "I just called to say I love you ". Yep, she had just heard that old (it was new then) Stevie Wonder song, and called me, her baby. A few months later she passed away and ever since when I hear that song it makes me remember that phone call from Mum. I used to ball my eyes out everytime I heard that song, sometimes I still do.

Okay, now fast forward to 2007, my aunt is in the hospital and not doing well at all. My cousin is in from out of town and they have told her to call anyone that would like to see my aunt, this is on Monday. Well, Monday goes by and Tuesday and Wednesday, she's still hanging on. Wednesday nite I silently told Mum to come get her sister, Thursday, the same thing she's hanging on and now several times through out the day I silently told Mum to come and get her sister. Well she hung on until Friday and I do think that maybe Mum did come for her. Why do I think that ?

Well, Friday evening I went into the kitchen to do some baking, it was just about 7PM ( i had just finished watching the network news), I turned on the radio and Stevie Wonder is just starting to sing, "I just called to say I love you". Okay, not really a big deal, I smile to myself and continue on with my baking and 20 minutes later on the very same radio station Stevie Wonder is again belting out, "I just called to say I love you". This time as I smiled to myself it was through tears. I think Mum was telling me that she came for my aunt and stopped by to tell me she loves me. You might think that I'm nuts, but that's okay. Because even after almost 22 years of not having Mum around, I felt like she was right there in my kitchen with me, if only for a few minutes......................

Bbbaby It's Cccoold Outside !

2007-01-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

I know in my last post I wanted the rain to go away, and go away it has ! It's really gotten cold here in the past week, wind chills of zero and highs in the teens and twenties. I know that it's supposed to be cold here in January, but just a couple of weeks ago it was in the low 60's. Ahhhhh, winter time in Pittsburgh.

On the crochet front I have a couple of projects going right now. Two afghans,more like throws, one for my sister as a housewarming gift for her "new" house and the other is for my nephew, who will be moving to NYC to start a new job in less than two weeks. I'll post pictures when there completed. I also started a hat last night late(around 1am)for a friend of Ralph's. The poor guy is going to be starting chemo soon and is really, really upset about the hair loss thing, so I thought that a couple of hats might make him feel a little better. The one I started last night is the "Boy Beanie" in SNB Crochet, I'll finish it up a little later.

Well I've got some laundry calling me so I gotta run........................

Rain, Rain Go Away !!

2007-01-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

It's January, in Pittsburgh, we're not supposed to have so much rain. Sheez, I feel like I've moved to Washington, the state, not PA. I guess I should be happy it isn't snow, because we'd be really buried in the stuff by now. But at least snow makes it pretty for a little while, the rain just makes it muddy, wet, dreary. Some of the plants think it's springtime, peonies that I just planted in the fall are starting to poke their little heads up. Weird, weird weather this winter, so far, I just hope it doesn't go too far in the other direction.

Hmmmmmm, not much else is going on, just been crocheting scarves for the Red Scarf Project and my partners at Crochet Depot . Just waiting for this rain to stop.
Talk to you soon !

How Pittsburgh Are You ?

2007-01-10T15:17:00.000-05:00

My brother sent me this and since I haven't posted in a while, I decided this was the perfect thing to share. I'm hoping it's the kick in the butt I need to get back into the swing of blogging.

Go ahead and take the quiz. See if you can understand how "real" Pittsburghers talk !

You are 100% Pittsburgh.

Great job! There's nooooo doubt about it. You're from Da Burgh. You deserve a reward, so go have an Ahrn City or two. And GO STILLERS!

How Pittsburgh Are You
See All Our Quizzes

Resolutions

2006-12-30T14:32:00.000-05:00

First let me say that I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I had a very nice one, Santa got me my very own laptop ! A few other small things, perfume, clothes, all things that I needed.

Okay, now onto the resolutions............................
In years gone by I've made tons of different resolutions, I'll stop picking my nails, I'll eat better and exercise more, I'll diet. Of course I could go on and on, but needless to say at some point in the year (usually january) those resolutions were broken one by one.

So this year I've decided to make one that really shouldn't be too hard, I resolve to be more caring and nicer, especially to those that are closest to me. That's it, that's my resolution for 2007, just one, but one that I feel should make everyone's life a bit better. And maybe, just maybe by making only one resolution I'll be able to keep it.

Wishing you and all of your loved ones a very happy new year, one that is filled with good health, love and laughter.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-24T23:29:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all................................

I'm a Tree !

2006-12-20T13:29:00.000-05:00

Since I only have a couple of minutes to post, I decided to this would be a good post. Thanks Deneen.

You Are a Tree

You love every part of the holidays, down to the candy canes and stockings. And you're goofy enough to put a Christmas tree ornament on your tree!

What Christmas Ornament Are You?

What Some Walnuts ?

2006-12-19T13:49:00.000-05:00

Here's some nuts...................

There's some nuts....................

Everywhere some walnuts................

Trust me there are even more walnuts, all over my kitchen counters. This is how I spent my morning, and mmmmmmmmm,mmmmmmmmmm, my house smells sooo good. But now I have to go package them up, some for the neighbors, some for the mailman, some for people Ralph works with, some more for family and friends. Gotta get it done, 'cause Santa Clause is comin' to town !

A Little Bit of Christmas

2006-12-12T17:35:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd share some photos of our little tree. Here it is all 4 feet of it, on top of my sideboard, well out of the way of playing dogs.

Another one of "little tree", this time with the flash off. Isn't it cute ?

A few of Rudolph's friends. Can you name them all ?

Rudolph, his girl friend and the miner. Do you know their names ?

And last but not least Santa and the rest of the gang.

Stay tuned for photos of my even smaller tree that's in the kitchen and also outdoor decorations.

HO HO HO

Happy Monday !

2006-12-11T08:52:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's Monday morning already ! The weekend just flew by. The weather was absolutely beautiful, sunny and warm, warm that is for the Pittsburgh area in December. Saturday my brother and I went to my sister's 'new' house with her and ripped up some orange, wall to wall carpeting. We tried to convince her that the orange was very retro and retro is 'in', she wasn't buying it. After all was said and done, she can't use just the beautiful hardwood floor. The previous owner had nails in every board on every stud, no creaks, but you can't have just the hardwood.

Ralph and I did some power Christmas shopping for each other. A couple years ago we decided instead of each of us going out separately and getting each other clothes, perfume, jewelry and that sort of thing, that we would go shopping together and get things we really want. So Ralph got a new 42" plasma TV for the computer room, which we now have renamed the 'media center'. I got, are you ready, I'm soooooooo excited, a laptop ! No, I'm not using it right now. I just attempted to hook up the wireless router and I need an ethernet cable. We have one here at the house but I don't know where Ralph put, so I have to wait until he gets home. I also got a few comfy, casual, velour pants and jacket sets.

Now all I have to do is crochet a couple more potholders and dishcloths, make my sweet spiced nuts and I'm done with all of my Christmas stuff. Then I'll have more time for crocheting scarves for the Red Scarf Project .

Gotta get to the grocery store..................

I'm Issuing a Challenge

2006-12-07T13:42:00.000-05:00

I found out about the Red Scarf Project from the latest Crochetme Newsletter and would like to issue a challenge to everyone that reads my blog. It doesn't start until January, so there's plenty of time to get all of your holiday stuff done. Scarves can be whipped up very quickly, you can get one or even two done in an evening.
You may be wondering if I'm issuing this challenge because I'm adopted, the answer is no, I'm the youngest of 6. However, there are 3 people in my family that were orphaned and were lucky enough to be adopted. The first became part of the family almost 4o years ago (yikes), my oldest brother(#1) married a girl that had been orphaned, fast forward about 20 years and another brother (#2) adopted a little girl that was orphaned, fast forward again about 17 years and the son and wife of brother #1 adopted a little boy(he'll be 3 in may) that was also orphaned. All 3 were lucky enough to be adopted, but there are so many that aren't and with just a few hours of your time and a little yarn you can make them feel loved.
So consider yourself Challenged, I hope you participate.

It Comes In Fours Meme

2006-12-06T15:30:00.000-05:00

from: Deneen

Deneen tagged me a few days ago, so here goes........................

Things You May Not Have Known About Me

Four jobs I’ve had in my life:
1. attendant at a "Wash, Dry and Fold" laundromat (one of the grosses things you could ever do, but hey, I needed the money)
2. cashier
3. floral arranging (loved this job, it just didn't pay enough)
4. banking, new accounts and lending

Four movies I would (and do) watch over and over:
1. Brigadoon (an oldie but a goodie)
2. Hook
3. Michael
4. Steel Magnolias

Four places I have lived:
1. Winter Springs, Fl.
2. Longwood, Fl.
3. Sanford, Fl.
4. Glassport, PA

TV shows I love (or would love) to watch:
1. ER ( i've been watching since episode one of season 1)
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. Desperate Housewives
4. Boston Legal

Four Places I have been on Vacation:
1. Daytona Beach
2. St. Augustine
3. Ocean City
4. All of the New England states except Maine (did a driving vacation to see them, too little time to make Maine)

Four of my favorite foods:
1. CHOCOLATE (the darker the better)
2. chicken
3. vanilla ice cream
4. Lays potato chips

Four of my favorite books :
1. Spencerville, by Nelson Demille
2. Upcountry, by Nelson Demille
3. The Notebook, by Nicholas Sparks
4. Message in a Bottle, by Nicholas Sparks

So now you know everything there is to know about me.

Support Our Troops

2006-12-04T09:48:00.000-05:00

I'm passing along an email that my sister sent me this morning. I've already done this, it can be done more than once and I'm hoping that you may take a minute of your time and send one too. Thanks.

Something cool that Xerox is doing: If you go to this website, www.letssaythanks.com can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it, and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq. You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services. How AMAZING it would be if we could get everyone we know to send one!!! This is a great site. Please send a card. It is FREE and it only takes a second. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the soldiers received a bunch

Wow, It's Been Over A Week !!

2006-12-02T11:09:00.000-05:00

I know, I've been a bit lax on my blogging this past week, but I've got a lot accomplished. Just scroll down and look at all of the pictures.

My nephew was here for Thanksgiving, (acutually he arrived on Tuesday and left on Sunday), he loves thrift stores and I think I might start to visit them a little more often myself. I got all of this yarn for $6.50 ! All of it is 100% wool, the cream colored is Turbo Swilan from Switzerland and the grey, oops I mean siver birch (10 skeins all of the same dye lot) is Columbia-Minerva Icelandia. So when all of my holiday crocheting is done, some of this is going to be slippers for me.

Okay, then I received these beautiful stitch markers in the mail, they were from the swap at Fiber Freaks . I love, love, love them !

Next, I made these to send to my swap partners, sorry for the bad photo I was in a rush. These took me a bit of time, as they were my first attempt at stitch markers. It was really fun making them and I plan on making more !

Another package arrived in the mail for me and it was my teddy bear from the swap at Crochet Depot

I finished up the bear for my partner and packaged it up with a couple other things and sent him on his way.

I also decided I needed a new purse and I wanted it felted or fulled (whichever term you prefer). All of the patterns I could find didn't have a flap to close the purse, something that I really think is needed. So I messed around and came up with the purse below. It's made using Cascade 220, the color in the photo didn't come out very well, it's one of the tweeds. It reminds me of cinnamon toast, so I guess this is my Cinnamon Toast Bag.

Next, I needed to get a scarf done for my sister-in-law for a gift. Below is a pattern that is in the 2007 Crochet Pattern A Day Calendar, it's the Snuggly Scarf and the pattern is by Deneen . It's done with Lion Brand Homespun and it works up amazingly fast and looks great.

So now that her scarf was done it was time to dig into some of my "yarn haul" stuff and work on a scarf for my sister. Again, I couldn't find a pattern that I really liked, I wanted something that would show the "fuzziness" of the yarn. So I fiddled around and came up with the scarf below. It's "Sis's Scarf"

Here's a little close up , it's difficult to tell, but the "fuzziness factor" remains.

I've also begun a scarf for my brother and should have it done this weekend.

Besides crafting, I made Thanksgiving dinner, including 2 pumpkin pies ( yeah, i know they're quick and easy) , a pumpkin spice cake and a triple chocolate cake.

So you see, even though I haven't been blogging, I've been keeping busy. Now I gotta get back to the laundry........

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-22T23:26:00.000-05:00

I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. May you have plenty to eat, in a warm safe place, surrounded by those you love.

Redi-whip or Cool Whip ?

2006-11-20T14:35:00.000-05:00

Yep, the big pig out day is almost here ! I love turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, all smothered in gravy. But most of all I LOVE a huge slice of pumpkin pie covered in Redi-Whip. Now there is a great debate in my house over Redi-Whip and Cool Whip. Ralph hates Redi-Whip, me, well, Cool Whip is okay, but tastes a little fake. Besides that, Redi-Whip brings back lots of childhood memories of squirting as much of the stuff as possible into your mouth straight from the can ( i still like that) . Redi-Whip is a food that not only tastes good, it's also fun to play with, you can't say that about Cool Whip.

So, what's your favorite, is it Cool Whip or Redi-whip ?

Photos from Yarn Haul

2006-11-15T16:09:00.000-05:00

Geez, I forgot to show you the yarn from my "yarn haul" almost 2 weeks ago ! Why didn't somebody remind me?
So here it is, a total of 11 skeins of yarn. Notice the "black and gold", that's for a scarf for my brother, we live in "Steeler Country". The black and gold is Plymouth Encore.

Here's a better view of the other two yarns, the green in the front is Crystal Palace Yarns, cotton chenille. It was discounted and I'm going to use it for face cloths.

Here's a close up of the Dive, Mohair Kiss Ombre, it's very soft, 73% mohair, 22% wool laine and 5% nylon. I plan to make a scarf for my sister from this and if there is enough left, one for me !!

Coming soon....................

photos of the finished items.........................

Crocheting Like Crazy

2006-11-14T18:34:00.000-05:00

Not to worry if I don't post for a few days. It's finally sinking in that I have very little time left to get my Christmas crocheting done. So, I plan to be "crocheting like crazy" for the next few days. And I have to do my "big" shopping for next Thursday's feast. I can't believe Thanksgiving is a little over a week away ! This year has really flown by. Now back to hooking..............

To Dye or Not to Dye

2006-11-12T15:19:00.000-05:00

I had every intention to try some Kool Aide dyeing yesterday, but it never happened. I decided, unlike the crockpot dyeing, where I was just basically "playing", I wanted to do more of a controlled dyeing, you know measure the amount of dye solution, weigh my yarn, that sort of thing. This way if I create something I really like, it will be easy to duplicate. So I dragged out my handy digital kitchen scale, that I use to weigh yarn, and the stupid batteries were dead ! It was cold and nasty and rainy and I really didn't want to go out just for batteries, so no dyeing took place yesterday, maybe later today or tomorrow.

Since I couldn't dye, I decided to make myself a purse with some Cascade 220 I got a couple of months ago. It's in the washer as I type, I'll show it to you when it's all done.

In case you're wondering if I have all of my Christmas crocheting done, the answer is "NO". But for some reason, I just can't quite stay focused on them. I want to dye yarn, I want to make purses, and make slippers, all for me. Okay, enough procrastinating, I better get back to my Christmas crocheting, at least for a little while.

Look, it's different !

2006-11-11T10:25:00.000-05:00

As you may have noticed my blog looks a bit different. I did the "blogger upgrade" , it's much easier for someone like me that doesn't know much about this sort of thing. I've begun to add some of the blogs I read, there are more to be added, along with some other stuff.
It's time to quit playing on the computer and get some constructive stuff done, like my laundry...............

Crockpot Dyeing Results

2006-11-11T09:38:00.000-05:00

Okay, blogger seems to be cooperating this morning, so I have to type fast.

This is what the water looked like after 2 hours on low. I turned the crockpot off at this point.

After sitting for about another hour, the water was clear, but still quite warm.

Now for the results. As you can see, it turned out quite dark and didn't dye evenly. I think I'm to blame for the uneveness, the water was so dark that I couldn't really tell if I had "mushed" the yarn down enough.

Just a close up of the uneveness.

The finished product is still drying, but it is a very dark purple. I'll show you what it looks like when it is dry.

Since this was soooooooo easy to do, I'm going to try it again today, using much less dye. I'm still going to use the food coloring, attempting to make maybe a sunset orange color. While that cooks, I'm going to do the Kool Aide thing.

I have to start some laundry first. So if blogger continues to be nice there will be more pictures later today.

Invisible pictures !

2006-11-10T19:07:00.000-05:00

It's been about 2 hours and the yarn is done ! As you may be able to tell I did try to post some pictures in a previous post, but they disappeared ! I'll try again tomorrow, by then I just might have some of the Kool Aide dyeing to share.
Sleep tight............................

Adventures in Crockpot Dyeing

2006-11-10T17:01:00.000-05:00

I decided that I wanted to try dyeing some yarn, it seems like such a fun thing to do. I had some Lionbrand Fisherman's wool that I thought I'd try first. I did order some yarn from Stickchick
the other day, to dye, once I try out a few things on the Lionbrand. Here is a short photo journal of what I'm doing.

First I wound about half of the skein into this:

Next the yarn is "wetting" in my kitchen sink. It really swells up and smells like a wet dog !

Here's the yarn after I squeezed out the excess water.

I'm using just regular old food coloring that I had on hand. The technique I'm using is "crockpot" dyeing that can be found on Bella Online. I wanted to try the rainbow method, but the colors started to run together, so I stopped with just blue and red. The result is what appears to be a really dark purple.

Now I'm in the "cooking" time of 2 to 4 hours using my flea market find crockpot. I only paid $1.00 for it, it is a bit small, but perfect to try out this technique. Oh, the wooden spoon was .25 from someone else at the flea market.
So now we wait...........................................................

to be continued when the yarn is done.............................

(more experiments to come using Kool Aide and the microwave)

Yarn Haul

2006-11-04T10:09:00.000-05:00

Alas, blogger won't let me upload pictures again this morning, but I did try, maybe it will let me upload it later.
I wanted to show you my "haul" from Knit-Wits, which I learned about from a post that Cheryl made a while ago. (thank you very much Cheryl, I loved the place ).
I want to make a few scarves for gifts, which fit in perfectly with the CAL at FiberFreaks. So, since I can't share the picture I have to tell you what I got. Not too much diversity, but good scarf making stuff. Hmmmmmm, lets see should I save the best for last ? Yea, I thing that's what I'll do. First I got one skein of Crystal Palace Cotton Chenille at 30% off , it was the only one left, the color is what I would describe as a pale lime green. This of course is not for a scarf, but for a face cloth or two. Thanks to Deneen for telling me how nicely the cotton chenille works up into face cloths. Then I got 6 skeins of Plymouth Encore, 3 black and 3 yellow (gold). Why those two colors you ask ? I'm only 15 minutes from Pittsburgh and black and gold are Steeler colors ! I hope to get a scarf and a hat for my brother out of these. If there's some leftover, no problem, it will get used. The Encore feels really nice, it's 75% acrylic and 25%wool, so it should be really durable and hopefully warm. And last but not least, for a scarf for my sister (and i'm hoping me too) , 4 balls of Di.ve Mohair Kiss Ombre ,it's really yummy !. I chose a colorway that's predominately off white with camels and greys ( it looks like colorway 404), it is soooooooo soft and should make a really pretty scarf. I also have some homespun that is in my stash and has been for a while (about 2 years) that is going to become a scarf from a pattern that's in the 2007 Crochet Pattern a Day Calendar, the Snuggly Scarf. It just happens to be one of Deneen's patterns.
Now, I'm off to do some laundry. Have a great weekend !

Stolen

2006-11-02T15:52:00.000-05:00

I stole this from Deneen, it's a quick little quiz. I think my years of living in Florida still have an infulence on the way I talk. It's either that or the quiz doesn't ask the correct questions for my Pittsburgheese to come out. Y'inz guyz know what I mean 'nat ?

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The West Your accent is the lowest common denominator of American speech. Unless you're a SoCal surfer, no one thinks you have an accent. And really, you may not even be from the West at all, you could easily be from Florida or one of those big Southern cities like Dallas or Atlanta.
The Midland
Boston
North Central
The Inland North
Philadelphia
The South
The Northeast
What American accent do you have? Take More Quizzes

It's What's for Dinner

2006-10-31T14:49:00.000-05:00

Since blogger is being kind today, I thought I'd share a couple more pictures. I had planned on making Drew's Bloodshot Eyeball Munchies to take tonight along with some pasta. I went to the grocery store to get a few things I needed to make them, forgetting that the senior citizens got their pension checks today. Don't get me wrong, I love the seniors, I hope to be one some day, but they move so slowly. So I decided that there was nothing on my list that I really needed and came home, a little bummed because there would be no eyeballs. And then, I became inspired (of course by drew's eyeballs) and here is dinner, bloody eyeballs on a bed of moldy, bloody brains.......

I'm even leaving a pan in the oven for Ralph, when he gets home from jury duty.
Thanks Drew for the inspiration.

Is It Christmas ?

2006-10-31T11:58:00.000-05:00

Yea !!! Blogger let me upload my photos !!! The stocking is for an exchange, my exchange partner doesn't know about my blog so I feel safe it posting this.

The Stocking.

Socking and potholders and a close up of the snowman

The Noel sign is for me, I have the perfect spot in my kitchen for it.

And we have the penguins.

And a couple of potholders and a towel ring.

After taking a second look at what I crocheted last week from start to finish, I didn't do too bad for having a migraine most of the week. I also have a teddy bear, that I can't show you. It's for the Christmas Holiday exchange at Crochet Depot.

Mrs. Claus is a pattern from Hugg'ems , the towel ring is from Crochet Memories .

The Noel sign, I graphed myself and the other patterns are from the book 'Tis the Season to Crochet.

I think I'm going to go whip up a Perfectly Pretty Cotton Face Cloth from Deneen's pattern.

Oh, Ralph did get picked for jury duty, so he's in court at least today and tomorrow. I can't wait until it's over so he can tell me about it !

Tonight I'll be a my sisters' house, so I can see some trick or treaters. The kids don't come down my part of the street, I'm 4 houses from the end of a dead end street and there are only houses on one side of the street.

Have a Happy, Fun and Safe Halloween !

Where Are the Stinking Pictures !?!

2006-10-30T11:07:00.000-05:00

I know, I know, I promised photos today and you couldn't wait to see them. So you clicked over and no stinking pictures ! I did take some and they are all uploaded to photobucket, however blogger isn't letting me post them right now. Guess you'll have to wait to see them.

I'll tell you a little about last week instead. We didn't have really any plans and as it turns out it's a good thing. I spent the better part of the week with a migraine, at some times it was worse than others. It's hormonal, I'm at that fun age, no longer a teenager (haven't been for decades), but acne and mini hot flashes and one more thing that I shouldn't tell you, but hey, we're all friends, B.O. Yep, big time body odor, my pits are disgusting and it's not from lack of using deodorant either. I currently have the following deodorants in my medicine cabinet just for me, Degree, Degree for men, Secret,Secret Platinum, Sure, Dove, plus I've even tried Ralph's Gillette and I just threw away a Mitchum. You remember the old commercial for Mitchum, "I didn't use my deodorant yesterday and I might not use it today", well guess what, I used it 3 times a day and it still didn't work. Oh, the joys of woman-hood !

So other than moping around, I didn't do much but crochet when the migraine would allow. Of course Ralph didn't do much either, he was after all on vacation. But he was a sweetie and didn't make much noise and checked on me several times. It was one of those weird migraines, I didn't feel too bad if I wasn't moving around, but as soon as I moved, forget it. The pain came on strong, felt like I was going to throw up, light really hurt my eyes, well you know, the typical symptoms.

As you can see it wasn't the best of weeks, but then again it could have been much worse and I'm feeling much better now. It just stinks that "it" had to be last week.

Tune in tomorrow for pictures (i hope)

Playing Catch Up

2006-10-28T14:54:00.000-04:00

Ralph went back to work today, is off tomorrow and has jury duty on Monday. So today I'm playing catch up, doing a little cleaning and some laundry. I'll have some photos on Monday of a few things that I completed this week for the Stocking Exchange I'm in. I have a couple other things that I won't be able to show you photos of yet, it's for the Christmas Holiday exchange at Crochet Depot , I sure hope everyone likes the exchange things I've made for them.
The dryer is buzzing at me so I've got to run. Have a wonderful weekend !

Not a good week for posts

2006-10-24T11:58:00.000-04:00

Ralph is on vacation from work this week, so my computer time is limited. So don't expect to see too much changing here this week.
I have a couple of questions for those of you that are blogger wizzes. First, how can I answer a comment without it looking like a second comment and second, how to I change the web addresses on my sidebar to links of some of the blogs I read ? Thanks for any help.
Gotta run, Ralph is ready to leave.

I just need to vent a bit

2006-10-21T11:26:00.000-04:00

I was having a good morning, I still am, but I'm just a bit ticked off. I just went out and retrieved my mail and there was a letter sized envelope addressed to me, with the return address from someone I've never heard of. So, yeah, okay maybe I obsess a bit over my unopened mail, but I don't like surprises.
Opening the envelope I find an invitation to a baby shower, for someone I barely know. It's the wife of one of my husbands' childhood friends, the only communication we have is the annual Christmas card.
First let me state that I HATE showers of any kind, wedding, baby, it doesn't matter, to me it's just another way to get a gift and to make women play stupid games. People, there is a reason men aren't involved with showers and that's because they wouldn't put up with the nonsense of them. "Here put on this stupid baby bib with your name attached and see how many words you can make out of 'baby puke', and if you get the most words you win this candle we got at the dollar store half priced". (and no i never put any one through a shower of any kind for me)
Second, do they really think I care that they are having a baby ? I mean, it's great if that's what they want, but I hardly know these people and now they expect me to fork over a gift. Is it me ? Am I being unreasonable ? Do I have to RSVP if I'm not going ? Will Ralph expect me to attend this event ? Am I obligated to send a gift even if I don't go ? But the biggest question I'd like answered is this, who was the one that invented this custom of showers ?
Yep, I really, really hate showers, can you tell ?

A Mysterious Box

2006-10-20T18:26:00.000-04:00

I had some errands to run today, and it was a really yucky day to be out and about. It was dark,dreary, rainy and cool. I would have much rather been at home, but alas, I had some things that just couldn't wait. I swear every Sunday driver was out ! Now I know that wet leaves on the road can make some spots a little slippery, but come on people, it isn't snow and ice ! Needless to say, when I arrived back home I wasn't in the best of moods. I was damp, cold and frustrated.
Okay, now home I check the mailbox to see what Mr. Mailman has brought today, as I opened my mailbox I spy a "mysterious" white box and it's addressed to me !

The box

So I carry the "mysterious" box along with some other damp mail inside to get a closer look. I put on my glasses (yes, i need them to read) and the return address is from someone in Spokane Washington, a Jim Price, hmmmmmmmm Jim Price, it rings a bell but I can't quite place it. Then it hits me.....................it's the Jimbamboo !!! It's here at last !! (not that it took long to get here)
I quickily grab a knife to slit open the tape to open the box.

And here is what I found, carefully wrapped in bubble wrap and in red felt, tied snugly with twine,

The Jimbamboo !

Isn't it beautiful !?!

I tried to get a close-up of the grain on the handle, the picture doesn't begin to show the beauty of this hook. Not only is it beautiful, it feels almost sensual in my hand. It's so smooth and contors to my hand perfectly, just as if Jimbo made "him" just for me. Ahhhhh, yes, Jimbamboo and I will spend many hours together.

Thanks go out to Jimbo for making such a beautiful work of art for me to crochet with.

Okay, now that I've made you jealous, I gotta go try out my new hook .

Oops ! I forgot to show you this !

2006-10-17T13:59:00.000-04:00

Almost forgot to share to photos of the table runner for Sis. Not the best picture I know, I'll work on my photograph skills as time goes by. What you can't tell from my crummy picture is how nice it acutally looks. It's made from Lion Brand Glitterspun in silver and gold and it does glitter.
Okay, now I have to go clean a bit.

Whoo Hoo !! We've got photos !

2006-10-17T13:31:00.000-04:00

As you can see, even though I'm no too swift when it comes to computer stuff, I do know how to upload pictures. This first picture is "Autumn Still life", it includes some of my fruit that I got at Trax Farm and it is being beautifully displayed in the basket I got as part of my Halloween Exchange.

This next picture show all of the other goodies I got in the exchange, with the exception of one thing.

This last thing is so, so cool ! Even Ralph liked it !

See...........it's Frankie !!

He's been hanging on my front door since soon after this photo was taken.

Okay, I feel better now, I got to share some photos !

Today is such a yucky day here, rainy and dark and dreary. It's a great day to finish up my stocking for the stocking exchange and maybe get started on my bear for the Christmas Holiday exchange at Crochet Depot. But first I have to get just a little cleaning done.

So thanks for stopping by and ta-ta for now.

Let's try this again

2006-10-16T14:39:00.000-04:00

Okie dokie, I'm going to see if I can get the pictures to post today. Cross your fingers.......................

Well I guess I didn't cross my fingers the correct way 'cause I can't get the pictures to upload again today. I'll have to try either late tonight or early tomorrow.

My birthday went well, uneventful but nice. Took a little ride to see the leaves, stopped and did a bit of shopping and dinner was Italian take out. The weather was absolutly beautiful, cool but nice and sunny.

Not too much else going on, just about finished with my stocking for an exchange at Crochet Allsorts. Also, I'm looking for a pattern for a teddy bear for the exchange at Crochet Depot. I found a pattern I like, but it's from a book published in th '80's and the yarn is no longer made. It was called Unger's Gespa and is described as fringe-like bulky yarn. The finished bear is adorabe, he looks kind of like a shaggy dog. Guess I have to keep on looking, I have a few other choices in mind.

Well, th-th-th-that's all folks...............................

Photos to follow

2006-10-14T09:30:00.000-04:00

I got the table runner done last night, it looks great !! I wanted to post pictures of that and of the really cool stuff I got from the Halloween Exchange at Crochet Depot but the batteries are dead (again) in my camera. I have some stuff to do in a little while, I'll get batteries then and pictures later.............I promise.

Oh............ I did get my apples yesterday and some pears, yummmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Apple pie soon, maybe Monday or Tuesday.

Until later...............................

Okay, I see what some of you mean, now. I've now just spent the last half hour trying to upload some pictures and it isn't happening. So, sorry, no photos today or tomorrow, I'll try again Monday.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH it's Friday the 13th

2006-10-13T10:06:00.000-04:00

Oh my gosh, it's Friday the 13th, no I'm not one of those people that are afraid of today. It's just that, well, umm, I'll be another year older in 2 days ! Time flies............. my Mom always said that the older you get the faster time goes and it's so true.

Got some running around to do today, dh Ralph(not his real name, but since he' a bus driver it's fitting ,remember ralph cramdon) is off on Fridays and we are going to Trax Farm for some apples, they have the best pie apples around, the Jonagold. I'm really hoping they have some, I usually only make one or two apple pies a season, so it really is a treat. They are a little high on some of their prices, but the quality is good.

I'm almost done with the table runner for Sis, I was able to crochet some last night. I got the last 9 rows done and one round of the boarder, with any luck it will be finished later today.....................watch for pics tomorrow.

Speaking of pics, I got my Halloween/Fall exchange package from Teresa yesterday and will post a pic of that tomorrow also. Just wait until you see what I got !!!!!!!! She did such a wonderful job picking everything out.
I also got 2 really pretty dishcloths from Doreen for that swap, pics to follow. Both were swaps from Crochet Depot.

And speaking of the "Depot", we've got a killer Christmas Holiday exchange planned, watch for details this weekend !

Gotta get going, Trax Farm awaits.

Can you tell me what this is ?

2006-10-11T14:04:00.000-04:00

Does any one know what this is ? It's growing in front of my house beside a rosebush. (ignore the date, i don't know how to get it to the correct date, that's part of the not so swift) Now no smart a** comments as to what you think it is, I know what it resembles but we all know that they don't grow wild. I do have lots of mushroom looking things growing in my yard, but only one that looks like this.

As for the best laid plans, yeah right, it seems I'm not going to get my sister's table runner done in time after all. Ya see, I have a bit of tendonitis in my right wrist and usually I just work right through the pain from it, but today I can't. When I try to crochet day I get a shooting pain from the front of my wrist up to my middle finger and from my middle finger over to my pinkie has that 'pins and needle' feeling. I think that planting my tulip bulbs aggravated it a bit and the weather changing isn't helping it either. From experience I know I just have to rest it for a day or two and it will be back to crocheting as normal. Sis will understand, she's good like that, besides she and I are going out to dinner tonight.

Well I guess that's about it for now. Oh, and if you can identify the thingie in the picture let me know.

I WON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-10-10T09:45:00.000-04:00

I WON !! I WON !!! I WON, I WON I WON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kinda sounds like that car insurance commercial, doesn't it ?
So what did I win .........................................

I won the Jimbambo hook !!!!!!!!!!!! Woooooooooo Hoooooooooooooooooooo !!!! Ain't it a beauty ? I can't wait to get it. Those of you that read my post over at Crochet Depot know that I didn't want to put out the bucks for a swift and you may be wondering about the hook. It wasn't a matter of not having the money for the swift, it just that swifts seem over priced to me. The Jimbamboo on the other hand is not only a functional crochet hook, it's also a work of art that has been handcrafted by Jimbo and it's a happy birthday from me to me. So when I get this beautious hook I'll take a couple photos to show you.

Now it's off to finish the table runner for sis.
Thanks for stopping by.

I've entered the 21st century, I'm blogging !!!!

2006-10-09T11:41:00.000-04:00

It seems that most everyone has a blog these days so I decided it was time for me to have one too. A little about me, I'm 40 something (getting closer to 50 than i care to admit) and I live near Pittsburgh, PA with my husband, 3 dogs and one cat. I'm addicted to crochet, can't knit at all, although I've tried to learn at different times. I also have the follow YAS, PAS and HAS, some of you may already know what they are, but for those of you that don't , Yarn Acquisition Syndrome, Pattern Acquisition Syndrome and Hook Acquistion Syndrome. I'm one of the assistant managers at Crochet Depot , a really great MSN group.

Currently I'm working on a table runner as a birthday gift for my sister, her birthday is Wednesday, gotta get it done. I'm also working on a stocking for an exchange over at Crochetallsorts , another great MSN group and I've started an afghan for my great nephew as a Christmas gift. I get bored easily, can you tell ? I always have more than one project going at time, I need the variety.

I guess that's about it for now, more later................................................