• Never in my life did I expect to be so excited about having access to three libraries.
• I may speak many forms of geek, but Trek Geek is not one of them.
• History is a good thing to have with someone, but sometimes it's that history that makes things weird.
• "Jewish Diva Diaries"
• Would you know bottom if you got there?
• It must be nice to have your product THAT in demand that people stay up until ung-dly hours waiting for you to restock your inventory.
• I believe given its relevance and regular use, the word "friended" should no longer come up in my spell check as a misspelled word.
• We were so idealistic back then!
• If I had known it was going to take so long to get there I would have packed a meal.
• Everyone needs some corn in their life.
• Seeing past the fog is difficult.
• What's next?
• I still believe we will have one last week of warm weather.
• Where should it go next? We only have a few hours to figure it out!!!
Until later . . .
30.9.09
29.9.09
Donating To The Cause
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 29, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 134
Squares Ready to be Added: 2
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 600
Either my math was off last week (which is very possible)or scrap yarn just appeared out of nowhere, but when I counted everything last night I was surprised to be up to 136. Don't get me wrong - I'm not upset about this, just questioning where all this yarn is coming from. With that in mind, I do want to extend some thank yous for some more recent and past donations:
As I had hoped, blankie is now large enough to start keeping me warm during the chilly weather. One of these days I'll take another picture of it. I'm not sure when it got to this point, but it's nice to see progress on it. I noticed the other day it's starting to take up more and more room in its current carrying case. Crap Monkey! This means I have to figure out the next place it will be housed. Before I know it I'll have to get a separate bag just to carry this around.
I believe that is all for now. . .
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 134
Squares Ready to be Added: 2
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 600
Either my math was off last week (which is very possible)or scrap yarn just appeared out of nowhere, but when I counted everything last night I was surprised to be up to 136. Don't get me wrong - I'm not upset about this, just questioning where all this yarn is coming from. With that in mind, I do want to extend some thank yous for some more recent and past donations:
- kittibean -> Thank you for the yarn you donated awhile back and for telling me you'd share a some of the yarn you're using for current project. (I seriously do think it's beautiful and didn't just compliment it because I wanted some of your scraps.)
- KP -> Thank you for your continuous support of this project addiction.
- KnittyGrittyKeri -> Thank you for all the large hanks for sock yarn. They are perfect for the future big squares to be added to Blankie.
- NickyJo -> Thank you for thinking of me and making a donation to the cause!
- Telephone - > Your contributions are most appreciate - especially I get a good chuckle out of the fact that you didn't think you'd enjoy making socks as much as you really do.
As I had hoped, blankie is now large enough to start keeping me warm during the chilly weather. One of these days I'll take another picture of it. I'm not sure when it got to this point, but it's nice to see progress on it. I noticed the other day it's starting to take up more and more room in its current carrying case. Crap Monkey! This means I have to figure out the next place it will be housed. Before I know it I'll have to get a separate bag just to carry this around.
I believe that is all for now. . .
Until later . . .
28.9.09
So Close; Yet So Far Away
It's been 12 hours plus since Yom Kippur started and thus fasting began.
I've gone hardcore this year - or that is how I use to refer to it. In the two prior years I've fasted I at the very least allowed myself water. I rationalized this action by saying it wasn't healthy to not hydrate the body for 24 hours straight. This year, however, I changed my mind and am not allowing myself water as well as food. Why I've decided to do this I'm not sure. One could ask that of why I decided to observe Passover more strictly then I did the year prior.
Regardless of the reasons, here I am just a few hours away from my break-fast meal. The signs of hunger come and go depending on what I'm doing. I find the noon hour to be the most difficult as I'm programmed to seek out food around that time. As with last year, from time-to-time I find myself thinking about what I'm going get to eat. I've actually began to physically make my way to the kitchen as well. Only to stop myself of course.
We all have our different strategies for making it through the fast. The one that always stuck out in my mind was MC's - sleep a lot and watch a lot of movies (avoiding any gangster type movies that tend to have a lot of food in them). Mine, well, sleeping is part of it, but mainly I just remind myself of the purpose behind fasting.
Until later . . .
I've gone hardcore this year - or that is how I use to refer to it. In the two prior years I've fasted I at the very least allowed myself water. I rationalized this action by saying it wasn't healthy to not hydrate the body for 24 hours straight. This year, however, I changed my mind and am not allowing myself water as well as food. Why I've decided to do this I'm not sure. One could ask that of why I decided to observe Passover more strictly then I did the year prior.
Regardless of the reasons, here I am just a few hours away from my break-fast meal. The signs of hunger come and go depending on what I'm doing. I find the noon hour to be the most difficult as I'm programmed to seek out food around that time. As with last year, from time-to-time I find myself thinking about what I'm going get to eat. I've actually began to physically make my way to the kitchen as well. Only to stop myself of course.
We all have our different strategies for making it through the fast. The one that always stuck out in my mind was MC's - sleep a lot and watch a lot of movies (avoiding any gangster type movies that tend to have a lot of food in them). Mine, well, sleeping is part of it, but mainly I just remind myself of the purpose behind fasting.
Until later . . .
25.9.09
I Couldn't
I couldn't let the week go by without at least one post on forgiveness since we're still in the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Though I haven't said much here about it, but the subject matter has been at the forefront of my thoughts this week.
The other day, I wrote this long, drawn-out e-mail to a good friend of mine that went on and on and on about the sermons I had listened to last Friday evening and Saturday morning. (I believe I mentioned in an earlier post, what both Rabbis' had to say this year really struck a nerve buried deep within me. If not, they struck a nerve within me.) I gave my friend the Cliff Notes version on the sermons and then said that I am amongst those that I feel the need to extend forgiveness too this year and didn't really know how that works.
How do you go about asking yourself to forgive yourself for the sins you've committed against yourself? How do you give yourself forgiveness? And furthermore, how do you go about explaining all your questions without confusing the hell out of yourself - and others?
Yes, there are sins I feel that I have committed against myself this past year and I acknowledge them for what they are; and aren't, but that still doesn't put my mind at rest.
The only words my friend could offer me were, "I keep trying to be as compassionate and understanding to myself as I would be to someone else, but that's hard." Yes, that is a very true statement. It is hard to be as compassionate towards ourselves as we are to others. Especially when we expect so much out of ourselves and our lives.
In speaking with BFF about all this she referred me back to the ceremony of Tashlich (throwing bread in the water to cast off our sins). The idea behind the ceremony is that we have put the past in the past and now move forward with the future. Hmmm. . . I had never participated in this ritual. The more I thought about this ritual the more I wondered if it really worked. By the point we had had this conversation it was too late for me to participate in this tradition. Or, at least participate in it in the traditional sense as the first afternoon of Rosh Hashanah came and went about a week ago. Does this mean it's too late to do this? I guess it's one of those things that if you wish to do it anytime is better than not.
I really have no profound ending to this post. This year's reflection is a lot different from the last and I'm sure next year's will be different from today's. At the end of the day I just hope I don't forget the things I've pondered this past week and I actively try to apply the things I've learned as much as possible in the coming year. Failing to do so, in my eyes, would be the bigger problem than the sins themselves.
Until later . . .
The other day, I wrote this long, drawn-out e-mail to a good friend of mine that went on and on and on about the sermons I had listened to last Friday evening and Saturday morning. (I believe I mentioned in an earlier post, what both Rabbis' had to say this year really struck a nerve buried deep within me. If not, they struck a nerve within me.) I gave my friend the Cliff Notes version on the sermons and then said that I am amongst those that I feel the need to extend forgiveness too this year and didn't really know how that works.
How do you go about asking yourself to forgive yourself for the sins you've committed against yourself? How do you give yourself forgiveness? And furthermore, how do you go about explaining all your questions without confusing the hell out of yourself - and others?
Yes, there are sins I feel that I have committed against myself this past year and I acknowledge them for what they are; and aren't, but that still doesn't put my mind at rest.
The only words my friend could offer me were, "I keep trying to be as compassionate and understanding to myself as I would be to someone else, but that's hard." Yes, that is a very true statement. It is hard to be as compassionate towards ourselves as we are to others. Especially when we expect so much out of ourselves and our lives.
In speaking with BFF about all this she referred me back to the ceremony of Tashlich (throwing bread in the water to cast off our sins). The idea behind the ceremony is that we have put the past in the past and now move forward with the future. Hmmm. . . I had never participated in this ritual. The more I thought about this ritual the more I wondered if it really worked. By the point we had had this conversation it was too late for me to participate in this tradition. Or, at least participate in it in the traditional sense as the first afternoon of Rosh Hashanah came and went about a week ago. Does this mean it's too late to do this? I guess it's one of those things that if you wish to do it anytime is better than not.
I really have no profound ending to this post. This year's reflection is a lot different from the last and I'm sure next year's will be different from today's. At the end of the day I just hope I don't forget the things I've pondered this past week and I actively try to apply the things I've learned as much as possible in the coming year. Failing to do so, in my eyes, would be the bigger problem than the sins themselves.
Until later . . .
23.9.09
Thoughts For The New Year
• I wasn't zoning out; I was merely keeping my mind active by think about multiple things.
• What? They don't have that feature on every phone? Now I'm going to have to keep this one forever!
• "Man vs. Food." How the hell have I not seen this show sooner!?
• No, really; don't worry about it.
• The "Trading Places" bet. I SO should have up the ante.
• Authenticity. Community. Faith. Hope. Trust.
• I'm not sure if I'm offended that he was listening to our conversation or amused he found my comment that entertaining.
• Matzoh Ball Soup. Brisket. Chicken. Challah. Roasted Potatoes. Kosher Desserts.
• The biggest problem I have with my GPS is the directions it gives me.
• I can only imagine what she thought when she saw my leg.
• Text updates were SO appreciated!
• I didn't mind getting drenched as long as the cellphone didn't.
• The sermons are the best part.
• Next year I'll have my clap!
Until later . . .
• What? They don't have that feature on every phone? Now I'm going to have to keep this one forever!
• "Man vs. Food." How the hell have I not seen this show sooner!?
• No, really; don't worry about it.
• The "Trading Places" bet. I SO should have up the ante.
• Authenticity. Community. Faith. Hope. Trust.
• I'm not sure if I'm offended that he was listening to our conversation or amused he found my comment that entertaining.
• Matzoh Ball Soup. Brisket. Chicken. Challah. Roasted Potatoes. Kosher Desserts.
• The biggest problem I have with my GPS is the directions it gives me.
• I can only imagine what she thought when she saw my leg.
• Text updates were SO appreciated!
• I didn't mind getting drenched as long as the cellphone didn't.
• The sermons are the best part.
• Next year I'll have my clap!
Until later . . .
22.9.09
Something Like
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 22, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 117
Squares Ready to be Added: 9
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 610
When I lay this thing down to take a look at it I have a hard time believing it's already at 117 squares. This marathon has been going on for four months now. A part of me is impressed to be 30 some squares away from the mid-hundreds. Another part of me knows that it's "just" the mid-hundreds and there is a long road ahead.
How in the world I will acquire said minis is yet to be determined. I truly feel I'm living swap-to-swap with this project and that any day now my yarn supply is going to dry up. I'm currently participating in another swap and know I'll be getting 14 additional minis as well. I think that gets me somewhere around the 160 mark. Then I have to go back to graveling for yarn scrap from friends and strangers . . . You know, now that I think about it, the graveling for scrap yarn really never stops, does it!?
I've always appreciated the items my aunt has made for me and my family over the years. However, it hasn't been until this project that I really get all the time, energy and love that was put into them. I was looking at the afghan my aunt made my parents years and years ago that I now have. It is currently draped over my rocking chair. As I was straightening it the other night I started to really think about how much time my aunt really put into it. Then I wonder how she felt when she was making it. Was she daunted by the project? Excited because she knew it was for us? One of these days I should send her a thank you. It may have been given to us years ago, but there is no time limit on letting someone know their gift is appreciated and enjoyed so much.
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 117
Squares Ready to be Added: 9
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 610
When I lay this thing down to take a look at it I have a hard time believing it's already at 117 squares. This marathon has been going on for four months now. A part of me is impressed to be 30 some squares away from the mid-hundreds. Another part of me knows that it's "just" the mid-hundreds and there is a long road ahead.
How in the world I will acquire said minis is yet to be determined. I truly feel I'm living swap-to-swap with this project and that any day now my yarn supply is going to dry up. I'm currently participating in another swap and know I'll be getting 14 additional minis as well. I think that gets me somewhere around the 160 mark. Then I have to go back to graveling for yarn scrap from friends and strangers . . . You know, now that I think about it, the graveling for scrap yarn really never stops, does it!?
I've always appreciated the items my aunt has made for me and my family over the years. However, it hasn't been until this project that I really get all the time, energy and love that was put into them. I was looking at the afghan my aunt made my parents years and years ago that I now have. It is currently draped over my rocking chair. As I was straightening it the other night I started to really think about how much time my aunt really put into it. Then I wonder how she felt when she was making it. Was she daunted by the project? Excited because she knew it was for us? One of these days I should send her a thank you. It may have been given to us years ago, but there is no time limit on letting someone know their gift is appreciated and enjoyed so much.
Until later . . .
21.9.09
"A New Year For Knitters"
One of my fellow Jewish Raverlors wrote this and I thought it was very nice . . .
"As Rosh HaShana approaches, you may still find me knitting
I should be baking honey cakes, instead here I am sitting
With my needles and yarn- finishing my log cabin afghan
Although, I did say that I would work on my menu plan!
Surely others can tell you how addictions tend to be
For some chocolate “calls” them (especially a “she”)
But I could be in the middle of cooking dinner for eight
When suddenly I hear my yarn singing – no, he won’t wait
And my needles stroll along, (with its cable) into my kitchen
Declaring, “Why are you cooking - when you could be stitchin?”
And who is that following him, rolling along at a quick pace
I would spot that one anywhere, that’s not just a “plain face!”
I chose him myself - a perfect accent for the jumper with the belt
That’s my soft 100% wool (magenta) making his presence “felt”
Just when I thought I could win this battle, set my goals straight
Books flutter in on the tips of their pages; is it too late?
“Take a look at this idea, a simple pattern, fast and upbeat
With your jumbo needles, (in garter), 1-2-3 it’s complete!”
It’s obvious, this is war - and although I’m not one to fight
This time of year, especially… I want to fight for what’s right!
I pick up my skillet, and threaten to strike anything on my trail
I yearn for victory, with optimism; I won’t fail
The needles, the yarn and their friends – those ideas galore
Lined up, neat as a stockinette row, and head for the door
We know that this time of year, they don’t stand a chance
They exited it quickly, barely giving me a glance
Feeling victorious, I peek at the full basket apples, shiny & red
Are they beaming with joy, or are those thoughts in my head?
I sit in my favorite chair, ignoring the “other” basket at my side
And realize that, with effort, I can succeed if I really tried
I add a prayer to H-Shem, “Please help me set priorities right”
I’ll find time to learn about improving myself, even if time is tight
So to all you knitters out there, I give my blessings:
May your joy increase.
May your sorrow and worry decrease.
May H-Shem make one great year for you and yours.
May the pattern of your days be filled with beautiful, bright colors.
May you feel H-Shem’s goodness and love wrap around you like a warm (hand-knit!) shawl."
"As Rosh HaShana approaches, you may still find me knitting
I should be baking honey cakes, instead here I am sitting
With my needles and yarn- finishing my log cabin afghan
Although, I did say that I would work on my menu plan!
Surely others can tell you how addictions tend to be
For some chocolate “calls” them (especially a “she”)
But I could be in the middle of cooking dinner for eight
When suddenly I hear my yarn singing – no, he won’t wait
And my needles stroll along, (with its cable) into my kitchen
Declaring, “Why are you cooking - when you could be stitchin?”
And who is that following him, rolling along at a quick pace
I would spot that one anywhere, that’s not just a “plain face!”
I chose him myself - a perfect accent for the jumper with the belt
That’s my soft 100% wool (magenta) making his presence “felt”
Just when I thought I could win this battle, set my goals straight
Books flutter in on the tips of their pages; is it too late?
“Take a look at this idea, a simple pattern, fast and upbeat
With your jumbo needles, (in garter), 1-2-3 it’s complete!”
It’s obvious, this is war - and although I’m not one to fight
This time of year, especially… I want to fight for what’s right!
I pick up my skillet, and threaten to strike anything on my trail
I yearn for victory, with optimism; I won’t fail
The needles, the yarn and their friends – those ideas galore
Lined up, neat as a stockinette row, and head for the door
We know that this time of year, they don’t stand a chance
They exited it quickly, barely giving me a glance
Feeling victorious, I peek at the full basket apples, shiny & red
Are they beaming with joy, or are those thoughts in my head?
I sit in my favorite chair, ignoring the “other” basket at my side
And realize that, with effort, I can succeed if I really tried
I add a prayer to H-Shem, “Please help me set priorities right”
I’ll find time to learn about improving myself, even if time is tight
So to all you knitters out there, I give my blessings:
May your joy increase.
May your sorrow and worry decrease.
May H-Shem make one great year for you and yours.
May the pattern of your days be filled with beautiful, bright colors.
May you feel H-Shem’s goodness and love wrap around you like a warm (hand-knit!) shawl."
20.9.09
The Last Weekend Of Summer
I was watching a news show this morning. The host ended the show by making comments about the last weekend of summer.
"The last weekend of summer." It really hadn't hit that we had just had the last weekend of summer. Yes, I knew the Fall equinox was taking place on the 22nd of this month, but I forgot that was right around the corner as most, such as myself, consider Labor Day weekend the last weekend of summer.
Nonetheless, it was the last official weekend of summer and how appropriate given that this is the weekend many, such as myself and my family, celebrated the beginning of a New Year. As I predicted this weekend was hectic. Two high holiday services. Two high holiday dinners. And I'm convinced I've gained back all the weight I lost this summer in those two sittings. A small price to pay I guess. Along with that a few non-holiday plans as well.
This weekend was full of memories . . .
Family dinner and thought provoking services. Bets as to whether or not certain stores would be open or not due to the high holidays. Crashing my friends' family dinner (well, I call it crash despite the fact that my friends insisted I was not since they were the ones who extended the invitation to me). Conversing with the cutest and most amazing 4 - and 2 - year-olds (it's amazing how quickly they grow-up and change). Time with an old friend and reminiscing about when we were kids and contemplating the future. Learning a new source of fashionable yet super inexpensive purses for a night out on the town. The comfort of being able to find a loved one more easily than before. A long awaited mani/pedi and a wet walk back afterwards (good thing I have no problem with getting soaking wet). A great comeback for the Bears when it appeared they were about to give-up yet another game.
Overall, it seemed like I was rushing to get from one place to another with little or no time to stop to take a breather all weekend. Though I may seem to complain about this, I wouldn't have traded any of it.
It was a great last weekend of summer.
Until later . . .
"The last weekend of summer." It really hadn't hit that we had just had the last weekend of summer. Yes, I knew the Fall equinox was taking place on the 22nd of this month, but I forgot that was right around the corner as most, such as myself, consider Labor Day weekend the last weekend of summer.
Nonetheless, it was the last official weekend of summer and how appropriate given that this is the weekend many, such as myself and my family, celebrated the beginning of a New Year. As I predicted this weekend was hectic. Two high holiday services. Two high holiday dinners. And I'm convinced I've gained back all the weight I lost this summer in those two sittings. A small price to pay I guess. Along with that a few non-holiday plans as well.
This weekend was full of memories . . .
Family dinner and thought provoking services. Bets as to whether or not certain stores would be open or not due to the high holidays. Crashing my friends' family dinner (well, I call it crash despite the fact that my friends insisted I was not since they were the ones who extended the invitation to me). Conversing with the cutest and most amazing 4 - and 2 - year-olds (it's amazing how quickly they grow-up and change). Time with an old friend and reminiscing about when we were kids and contemplating the future. Learning a new source of fashionable yet super inexpensive purses for a night out on the town. The comfort of being able to find a loved one more easily than before. A long awaited mani/pedi and a wet walk back afterwards (good thing I have no problem with getting soaking wet). A great comeback for the Bears when it appeared they were about to give-up yet another game.
Overall, it seemed like I was rushing to get from one place to another with little or no time to stop to take a breather all weekend. Though I may seem to complain about this, I wouldn't have traded any of it.
It was a great last weekend of summer.
Until later . . .
18.9.09
Twenty Years
It was the summer of 1989.
It was the first summer I could remember in forever when I wasn't in some sort of summer camp program. BFF went away to camp that year so I spent a lot of my time hanging out with my neighborhood friends. It was the summer I met the boy who would later become my first boyfriend, first love and eventually one of my best friends - another brother. In mid-July, my mom and I ventured to Ft. Lauderdale to visit my grandparents (her mother and father). We stayed there for two weeks. The day after we arrived home from Florida, my brother and I were off to Ft. Worth to visit my Aunt, Uncle and Cousins. He would stay for just a week and I would stay for two weeks. The time flew by so quickly. Little did I know that about a week or two after I arrived back home from that trip my world would start to change completely.
While I was away my dad's health was declining and I was not aware of this. One night, after my final return home, my dad fell getting out of bed in the middle of the night. I'm not sure of the details, but his doctor was concerned enough by this that dad checked into the hospital that next day. Testing would take place and my dad's worst fears (our worst fears) would be confirmed. He was diagnosed with Lymphoma cancer. If I remember correctly, chemotherapy was not an option because of his age and how far along the cancer had progressed.
The weeks after the diagnosis were hectic. Much time was spent commuting from the suburbs to the hospital downtown. Like any child not wanting to face the fact their parent was dying, I refused to discuss what was going on with my mom. I didn't want to hear about it. If I kept myself in a "happy place" it would all be okay . . . right!? That was until the news we received on Sunday, September 17, 1989. The doctor informed my mom that my dad's time was short. He could go at anytime. My middle brother and mom were at odds that day as to whether or not I should be taken to the hospital to see dad one last time. By this point they had an oxygen mask on him to help him breath and he had lost a significant amount of weight. Middle Brother didn't want that to be my last memory of dad. However, my mom had the final say and we went to the hospital that afternoon.
It was early morning Monday, September 18, 1989 when we got the call. I was getting ready for school when the phone rang. I made my way half-way down the stairs and leaned against the wall so I wouldn't been seen. I heard my mom utter the words, "What's going on? You wouldn't be calling this early if something wasn't wrong." It was my dad's doctor. My dad had passed just moments earlier. I made my way back to my room and waited for mom to come up stairs to give me the news. The days that followed were a blur. My friends found out by seeing an "F" next to my name on the daily announcements list that was passed out to each home room. A sea of people, and food, flooded our house as word spread. As my mom made funeral arrangements one of our neighbors came over and had my brother and I start cleaning and organizing things. After school, I had a visit from a girl I wasn't great friends with, but her dad had been killed on the job several months earlier so she knew what it was like to loose a parent so young and wanted to make sure I was ok. My neighborhood friends also come over that day as well. I remember just sitting in my room with them, saying nothing.
My dad was a wonderful man who loved his family and friends very much. A man so filled with life. He had his own special way of sharing life lessons . . . because of his constant reminders that we didn't own the Edison company I learned from an early age it was important to turn lights off when you leave a room. He was a man that made the simple gift of a Kelly Green dress super special by telling you it was especially made for you by him. He was the only person who has been able to make me disappear, and reappear, on queue. And, as any good dad would, he questioned me thoroughly as to who the boy calling for his little girl was and why he was calling (Clearly I wasn't 30 yet which was the age it would "ok" for me to start dating).
Being the child of an much older parent, I always anticipated my dad would not be around my whole life. Sometimes I would wonder if I was "too" prepared for the inevitable and didn't give myself a chance to be a child. When I talk to those who have had a loved-one pass unexpectedly I am told how lucky I was to have had the chance to say good-bye. I understand where they are coming from and yes, I was lucky. However, at the end of the day, the absences of someone so important and special to you whether you've had time to prepare for it or not is still a great loss. A loss you never really forget.
Back then, the idea of getting through the first week seemed to be a great accomplishment. Before we knew it a year had passed. Now, twenty. Not a day goes by that I don't pause and think of my dad; even if it's just for a brief moment. He will never be forgotten. My mom has informed me, on many of an occasion, how much I am like him. Both physically and personality wise. It is he who the world has to thank for my adorable dimples and talkative ways - amongst other traits. To know me, is to know my dad. It is this very fact in which I have taken comfort and found peace in his passing. I carry around with me a piece of him that no one ever will. A piece with many special memories that only we understand.
It is for that reason that I honor my dad today and share with you how special of man he was. Also, I dedicate this post to anyone out there mourning the loss of someone special to them. I can't fully understand what you are going through and say it is always easy, but I can relate to how you feel and let you know it does get easier. Know that it is ok to be sad from time-to-time no matter how long it has been. Embrace the memories and find the thing(s) that bring you comfort and peace. I believe this is what they would want for you. I believe it is what my dad would want for me.
Until later . . .
It was the first summer I could remember in forever when I wasn't in some sort of summer camp program. BFF went away to camp that year so I spent a lot of my time hanging out with my neighborhood friends. It was the summer I met the boy who would later become my first boyfriend, first love and eventually one of my best friends - another brother. In mid-July, my mom and I ventured to Ft. Lauderdale to visit my grandparents (her mother and father). We stayed there for two weeks. The day after we arrived home from Florida, my brother and I were off to Ft. Worth to visit my Aunt, Uncle and Cousins. He would stay for just a week and I would stay for two weeks. The time flew by so quickly. Little did I know that about a week or two after I arrived back home from that trip my world would start to change completely.
While I was away my dad's health was declining and I was not aware of this. One night, after my final return home, my dad fell getting out of bed in the middle of the night. I'm not sure of the details, but his doctor was concerned enough by this that dad checked into the hospital that next day. Testing would take place and my dad's worst fears (our worst fears) would be confirmed. He was diagnosed with Lymphoma cancer. If I remember correctly, chemotherapy was not an option because of his age and how far along the cancer had progressed.
The weeks after the diagnosis were hectic. Much time was spent commuting from the suburbs to the hospital downtown. Like any child not wanting to face the fact their parent was dying, I refused to discuss what was going on with my mom. I didn't want to hear about it. If I kept myself in a "happy place" it would all be okay . . . right!? That was until the news we received on Sunday, September 17, 1989. The doctor informed my mom that my dad's time was short. He could go at anytime. My middle brother and mom were at odds that day as to whether or not I should be taken to the hospital to see dad one last time. By this point they had an oxygen mask on him to help him breath and he had lost a significant amount of weight. Middle Brother didn't want that to be my last memory of dad. However, my mom had the final say and we went to the hospital that afternoon.
It was early morning Monday, September 18, 1989 when we got the call. I was getting ready for school when the phone rang. I made my way half-way down the stairs and leaned against the wall so I wouldn't been seen. I heard my mom utter the words, "What's going on? You wouldn't be calling this early if something wasn't wrong." It was my dad's doctor. My dad had passed just moments earlier. I made my way back to my room and waited for mom to come up stairs to give me the news. The days that followed were a blur. My friends found out by seeing an "F" next to my name on the daily announcements list that was passed out to each home room. A sea of people, and food, flooded our house as word spread. As my mom made funeral arrangements one of our neighbors came over and had my brother and I start cleaning and organizing things. After school, I had a visit from a girl I wasn't great friends with, but her dad had been killed on the job several months earlier so she knew what it was like to loose a parent so young and wanted to make sure I was ok. My neighborhood friends also come over that day as well. I remember just sitting in my room with them, saying nothing.
My dad was a wonderful man who loved his family and friends very much. A man so filled with life. He had his own special way of sharing life lessons . . . because of his constant reminders that we didn't own the Edison company I learned from an early age it was important to turn lights off when you leave a room. He was a man that made the simple gift of a Kelly Green dress super special by telling you it was especially made for you by him. He was the only person who has been able to make me disappear, and reappear, on queue. And, as any good dad would, he questioned me thoroughly as to who the boy calling for his little girl was and why he was calling (Clearly I wasn't 30 yet which was the age it would "ok" for me to start dating).
Being the child of an much older parent, I always anticipated my dad would not be around my whole life. Sometimes I would wonder if I was "too" prepared for the inevitable and didn't give myself a chance to be a child. When I talk to those who have had a loved-one pass unexpectedly I am told how lucky I was to have had the chance to say good-bye. I understand where they are coming from and yes, I was lucky. However, at the end of the day, the absences of someone so important and special to you whether you've had time to prepare for it or not is still a great loss. A loss you never really forget.
Back then, the idea of getting through the first week seemed to be a great accomplishment. Before we knew it a year had passed. Now, twenty. Not a day goes by that I don't pause and think of my dad; even if it's just for a brief moment. He will never be forgotten. My mom has informed me, on many of an occasion, how much I am like him. Both physically and personality wise. It is he who the world has to thank for my adorable dimples and talkative ways - amongst other traits. To know me, is to know my dad. It is this very fact in which I have taken comfort and found peace in his passing. I carry around with me a piece of him that no one ever will. A piece with many special memories that only we understand.
It is for that reason that I honor my dad today and share with you how special of man he was. Also, I dedicate this post to anyone out there mourning the loss of someone special to them. I can't fully understand what you are going through and say it is always easy, but I can relate to how you feel and let you know it does get easier. Know that it is ok to be sad from time-to-time no matter how long it has been. Embrace the memories and find the thing(s) that bring you comfort and peace. I believe this is what they would want for you. I believe it is what my dad would want for me.
Until later . . .
17.9.09
Special Kind Of. . .
KP got me started on it. . . "I'm a special kind of (insert adjective)." I guess it's only fair because I got her hooked on the phrase "crap monkey." I only bring this up because I had my own "special kind" of moment today that is still on my mind. I'm sure it will leave my mind soon, but in the mean time Go Me!
What's also on my mind - this weekend. I truly do have this problem with finding balance with my time. The Jewish high holidays start this weekend and I will be with my family (as one would expect). I'm also using this as an opportunity to meet-up with some of my friends whom I don't see on a regular basis. Yes, we live relatively close, but never see each other. Understandable I guess since we're not next door neighbors, but I do want to make more of an effort to see these people. It all makes for another hectic weekend. I have to remember this feeling when the slower weekends come along - it all seems to be cyclical. At the end of the day, I'm still searching for that balance I so greatly crave.
Speaking of balance, my ability to forgive is being tested once again. This time it leaves me asking the person in question - Why now? Why do you want to come back into my life now? It was truly an unexpected return and maybe the mere fact that I felt the need to ask the question means that I won't be able to let them back in my life again. Or, at least not at the drop of a hat. I guess time will tell if they are meant to be a more permanent fixture then once believed and what their presence in my life is truly about. Just having to go "back there" has shown me how I've grown and changed since I last spoke to them. I hope they have grown as well . . . On top of all that, this got me wondering what if the truly unexpected and unlikely happened. How would I feel about that? I haven't come up with that answer yet and don't plan to really focus on it. As I've always said, should the situation arise I will deal with it then.
I've been working feverishly on getting the finishing touches done for the swap so I can send off everyones yarn. I know there are some whom are waiting anxiously. I've also been finishing making dish rags I'll give my sil as a hostess gift. I'm sad to say this is the first time I'm giving her a hostess gift in years. I really hope she likes what I made. I debated about the sizes of the dish rags and came up with making three: one small, one medium and one large. I'm topping off the package with a nice bar of soap and a pretty ribbon. I just hope I can remember how to put a fancy ribbon together. I got a lesson a few years back so it's been awhile. Since I can't go back to my teacher for a refresher lesson - here's to hopin'! If I can remember, I'll post pictures regardless of how it turns out. Now onto the baby blanket. I found a pattern I want to make. In true "me" fashion, my friend and their spouse will be receiving a card with a picture of said blanket in progress. There is no way I will have it done by the time this child makes their way into this world. I'm just THRILLED to have found a pattern to inspire me. I also want to get started on BFF's socks. I have a pattern in mind and yarn in a ball. Now I just need to cast-on and go for it.
Before I sign-off, I want to give props to President Obama for being so down-to-earth. If you haven't heard already, he was recorded calling Kayne West a jackass for what he did to Taylor Swift at VMAs this past weekend. If you haven't heard the comments, here you go:
That said, I know writing about it just fuels the fire and give Kayne more publicity than he ever deserved. However, this is not about him. It's about our President and the slack he's getting for the statement he made. I see nothing wrong with his comments and furthermore, I think it's refreshing to have a President that is not afraid to show that he too is an everyday person who will call it like he sees it. Way to go Mr. President!
Until later . . .
What's also on my mind - this weekend. I truly do have this problem with finding balance with my time. The Jewish high holidays start this weekend and I will be with my family (as one would expect). I'm also using this as an opportunity to meet-up with some of my friends whom I don't see on a regular basis. Yes, we live relatively close, but never see each other. Understandable I guess since we're not next door neighbors, but I do want to make more of an effort to see these people. It all makes for another hectic weekend. I have to remember this feeling when the slower weekends come along - it all seems to be cyclical. At the end of the day, I'm still searching for that balance I so greatly crave.
Speaking of balance, my ability to forgive is being tested once again. This time it leaves me asking the person in question - Why now? Why do you want to come back into my life now? It was truly an unexpected return and maybe the mere fact that I felt the need to ask the question means that I won't be able to let them back in my life again. Or, at least not at the drop of a hat. I guess time will tell if they are meant to be a more permanent fixture then once believed and what their presence in my life is truly about. Just having to go "back there" has shown me how I've grown and changed since I last spoke to them. I hope they have grown as well . . . On top of all that, this got me wondering what if the truly unexpected and unlikely happened. How would I feel about that? I haven't come up with that answer yet and don't plan to really focus on it. As I've always said, should the situation arise I will deal with it then.
I've been working feverishly on getting the finishing touches done for the swap so I can send off everyones yarn. I know there are some whom are waiting anxiously. I've also been finishing making dish rags I'll give my sil as a hostess gift. I'm sad to say this is the first time I'm giving her a hostess gift in years. I really hope she likes what I made. I debated about the sizes of the dish rags and came up with making three: one small, one medium and one large. I'm topping off the package with a nice bar of soap and a pretty ribbon. I just hope I can remember how to put a fancy ribbon together. I got a lesson a few years back so it's been awhile. Since I can't go back to my teacher for a refresher lesson - here's to hopin'! If I can remember, I'll post pictures regardless of how it turns out. Now onto the baby blanket. I found a pattern I want to make. In true "me" fashion, my friend and their spouse will be receiving a card with a picture of said blanket in progress. There is no way I will have it done by the time this child makes their way into this world. I'm just THRILLED to have found a pattern to inspire me. I also want to get started on BFF's socks. I have a pattern in mind and yarn in a ball. Now I just need to cast-on and go for it.
Before I sign-off, I want to give props to President Obama for being so down-to-earth. If you haven't heard already, he was recorded calling Kayne West a jackass for what he did to Taylor Swift at VMAs this past weekend. If you haven't heard the comments, here you go:
That said, I know writing about it just fuels the fire and give Kayne more publicity than he ever deserved. However, this is not about him. It's about our President and the slack he's getting for the statement he made. I see nothing wrong with his comments and furthermore, I think it's refreshing to have a President that is not afraid to show that he too is an everyday person who will call it like he sees it. Way to go Mr. President!
Until later . . .
16.9.09
Wow, Today's Wednesday
Now that the day is over, it really just hit me today is Wednesday. . .
• Got minis?
• Expect the unexpected
• Small. Medium. Large.
• 20 years
• Niddy Noddys rock!
• Apples and Honey - Yum!
• Why now?
• k2tog, ssk, psso, c2lb, kfb, skp - These are the kind of things that make knitting challenging.
• Mini-making machine!
• The picture doesn't do it justice
• Pamper thyself!
• Adult Responsibilities Happen
• I object to it getting dark out earlier and earlier each day
• 100 less!
Until later . . .
• Got minis?
• Expect the unexpected
• Small. Medium. Large.
• 20 years
• Niddy Noddys rock!
• Apples and Honey - Yum!
• Why now?
• k2tog, ssk, psso, c2lb, kfb, skp - These are the kind of things that make knitting challenging.
• Mini-making machine!
• The picture doesn't do it justice
• Pamper thyself!
• Adult Responsibilities Happen
• I object to it getting dark out earlier and earlier each day
• 100 less!
Until later . . .
15.9.09
100 Squares Old
Blankie hit a milestone yesterday. . . 100 squares!
To mark the occasion square 100 was the first double square to be added to it. I used the Dead Blue yarn I dyed this summer.
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 15, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 104
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 632
As you can see from the count, I have 104 squares. That's because I am counting the double square as 4, and not just one, since it takes up more room on the blanket. Today I added on the additional square. I did, however, take a full picture first.
This project is now big enough length wise that it officially drapes over my ottoman - in all directions.
Even though it's over 100 square, realistically I often question whether or not I'll get it finished in time for my 35th birthday. I may have to revise my goal a tad. I guess it will be something to visit as that time gets closer.
In the meantime, I've been working on finishing up packages for the mini-skein swap. This was how things looked the other evening:
And as of this evening. . .
It's kind of sad to see this swap come to an end. I was very lucky to have AWESOME swappers in this group. That along with the experience of having yarn show up in my mailbox almost everyday . . . what can I say? I was in heaven!
Until later . . .
To mark the occasion square 100 was the first double square to be added to it. I used the Dead Blue yarn I dyed this summer.
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 15, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 104
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 632
As you can see from the count, I have 104 squares. That's because I am counting the double square as 4, and not just one, since it takes up more room on the blanket. Today I added on the additional square. I did, however, take a full picture first.
This project is now big enough length wise that it officially drapes over my ottoman - in all directions.
Even though it's over 100 square, realistically I often question whether or not I'll get it finished in time for my 35th birthday. I may have to revise my goal a tad. I guess it will be something to visit as that time gets closer.
In the meantime, I've been working on finishing up packages for the mini-skein swap. This was how things looked the other evening:
Got Minis?
And as of this evening. . .
It's kind of sad to see this swap come to an end. I was very lucky to have AWESOME swappers in this group. That along with the experience of having yarn show up in my mailbox almost everyday . . . what can I say? I was in heaven!
Until later . . .
13.9.09
"Ask Amy" Agrees
I was actually discussing this with a friend the other day - Is it ok to work on a knitting project at a casual gathering of family and/or friends?
Husband's remark makes her drop a stitch -- chicagotribune.com
Husband's remark makes her drop a stitch -- chicagotribune.com
Hangover
I woke-up this morning with a hangover.
As a 30-something, having a hangover is not something new to me. I know I've at least had one in my lifetime. However, this hangover was not from over indulging in "adult beverages." The cause: 12 hours of yarn goodness. Yes, I was yarn drunk. Myself and a few other of my knitting peeps took a field trip to Stitches Midwest yesterday.
Since Schaumburg, IL (the city in which the convention center is located) is one of my old hoods I played the role of "GPS" for the day which was fine by me as long as our driver realized I do not share the number of feet you will need to turn in. I did however do a better job than normal at this role. Instead of saying "turn at this street" without giving a direction in which to turn, I clearly indicated to our driver where and what direction they would be turning. I'm very proud of this as I see it as a growth in my GPS abilities. Upon our arrival we found ourselves fighting for a parking space. Normally we would have had the advantage in this situation because we were armed with knitting needles, however this time everyone else in the parking lot was as well so there was no advantage.
I was drunk the moment my eyes laid sight on the marketplace. There it is was - row after row after row of yummy, gorgeous yarn goodness. Many hours of yarn petting and ogling were ahead.
The hours went by quickly. At times I got separated from my group. At one point I stood at the "yarn pit" for about half an hour looking for a just the perfect yarn for my first sweater. The "yarn pit" is a booth where high quality yarns were sold in bulk for about half of what they normally cost. I found the perfect yarn for the sweater - Mirosal Sulka (60% Merino, 20 % Alpaca 20% Silk). The perfect shade of blue. The only problem: My sweater needs 750 yards for my size so I want to get at least 850 yards just in case. The Sulka pack of 10 was only 550 yards and there wasn't a second pack to match.
CRAP MONKEY!
I guess it wasn't meant to be then. Funny enough, I would later learn that one of my friends had been at the yarn pit about an hour or so earlier than I and she was looking for a second pack of the same exact Sulka I was looking at.
As I walked around the marketplace I saw many fellow knitting peeps from the various groups I have been too. Some of them I had seen recently, others not so recently. One person I did not meet-up with was Cantor D's secretary. We had been exchanging e-mails about our knitting projects and had decided that Stitches would be the perfect time to meet up. However, things were crazy and the time slipped by in a blink. Oh well, I'm sure I will meet her another time.
After we had made the first lap around, my peeps and I went back to the car to dump our purchases. This would free-up our hands for more purchases. Before we went for shopping round number two, we took a break. Shopping takes a lot out of you.
After catching some dinner, we returned to the convention center/hotel to knit with fellow Ravelers. On our way in a very drunk individual (and I'm talking adult beverage drunk, not yarn drunk) stopped me telling me I had committed a huge offense. What was my offense? I was only carrying one hank of sock yarn. OMG! Seriously, that was my offense!? Honestly, when she first stopped me what I thought she was going to say was that I was wearing socks with my flip-flops. If that had been the case I really wouldn't have cared - my feet were cold. Honestly, I didn't care that I was only carrying on hank of yarn, but I did care this person would let me go. So I talked my way free from them.
Once we got settled in the lobby of the hotel I broke out blankie. I had neglected the blankie all day and had a few things of yarn to add to it. That's when more craziness began. Blankie got A LOT of attention by those passing by. A lot of people stopped to take a look at it and ask me questions. Honestly, it made me a little uncomfortable. I can't really articulate why I was uncomfortable, but I was. I hadn't brought blankie along to attract attention, just to keep hammering away at it. One of the girls who asked me questions about it is making this AMAZING blanket that is WAY more different and unique than anything I've seen. It even made me wish I had bought some of the bulk Noro we found at the yarn pit. That blanket, in my opinion, was worth ogling.
I arrived home about 12 hours after I had left. It had been a fun-filled day. A day filled with many storied and new inside jokes.
Well worth a hangover!
Until later . . .
As a 30-something, having a hangover is not something new to me. I know I've at least had one in my lifetime. However, this hangover was not from over indulging in "adult beverages." The cause: 12 hours of yarn goodness. Yes, I was yarn drunk. Myself and a few other of my knitting peeps took a field trip to Stitches Midwest yesterday.
Since Schaumburg, IL (the city in which the convention center is located) is one of my old hoods I played the role of "GPS" for the day which was fine by me as long as our driver realized I do not share the number of feet you will need to turn in. I did however do a better job than normal at this role. Instead of saying "turn at this street" without giving a direction in which to turn, I clearly indicated to our driver where and what direction they would be turning. I'm very proud of this as I see it as a growth in my GPS abilities. Upon our arrival we found ourselves fighting for a parking space. Normally we would have had the advantage in this situation because we were armed with knitting needles, however this time everyone else in the parking lot was as well so there was no advantage.
I was drunk the moment my eyes laid sight on the marketplace. There it is was - row after row after row of yummy, gorgeous yarn goodness. Many hours of yarn petting and ogling were ahead.
The hours went by quickly. At times I got separated from my group. At one point I stood at the "yarn pit" for about half an hour looking for a just the perfect yarn for my first sweater. The "yarn pit" is a booth where high quality yarns were sold in bulk for about half of what they normally cost. I found the perfect yarn for the sweater - Mirosal Sulka (60% Merino, 20 % Alpaca 20% Silk). The perfect shade of blue. The only problem: My sweater needs 750 yards for my size so I want to get at least 850 yards just in case. The Sulka pack of 10 was only 550 yards and there wasn't a second pack to match.
CRAP MONKEY!
I guess it wasn't meant to be then. Funny enough, I would later learn that one of my friends had been at the yarn pit about an hour or so earlier than I and she was looking for a second pack of the same exact Sulka I was looking at.
As I walked around the marketplace I saw many fellow knitting peeps from the various groups I have been too. Some of them I had seen recently, others not so recently. One person I did not meet-up with was Cantor D's secretary. We had been exchanging e-mails about our knitting projects and had decided that Stitches would be the perfect time to meet up. However, things were crazy and the time slipped by in a blink. Oh well, I'm sure I will meet her another time.
After we had made the first lap around, my peeps and I went back to the car to dump our purchases. This would free-up our hands for more purchases. Before we went for shopping round number two, we took a break. Shopping takes a lot out of you.
After catching some dinner, we returned to the convention center/hotel to knit with fellow Ravelers. On our way in a very drunk individual (and I'm talking adult beverage drunk, not yarn drunk) stopped me telling me I had committed a huge offense. What was my offense? I was only carrying one hank of sock yarn. OMG! Seriously, that was my offense!? Honestly, when she first stopped me what I thought she was going to say was that I was wearing socks with my flip-flops. If that had been the case I really wouldn't have cared - my feet were cold. Honestly, I didn't care that I was only carrying on hank of yarn, but I did care this person would let me go. So I talked my way free from them.
Once we got settled in the lobby of the hotel I broke out blankie. I had neglected the blankie all day and had a few things of yarn to add to it. That's when more craziness began. Blankie got A LOT of attention by those passing by. A lot of people stopped to take a look at it and ask me questions. Honestly, it made me a little uncomfortable. I can't really articulate why I was uncomfortable, but I was. I hadn't brought blankie along to attract attention, just to keep hammering away at it. One of the girls who asked me questions about it is making this AMAZING blanket that is WAY more different and unique than anything I've seen. It even made me wish I had bought some of the bulk Noro we found at the yarn pit. That blanket, in my opinion, was worth ogling.
I arrived home about 12 hours after I had left. It had been a fun-filled day. A day filled with many storied and new inside jokes.
Well worth a hangover!
Until later . . .
10.9.09
All Stitched Up
My mind is running around in circles and it feels as though I am too even though in reality it really isn't the case. It's getting to be that time of year when things start to get busy, and time flys by even faster than normal. Since I haven't mentioned anything knitting related aside from blankie and DRT updates I'll start there:
The follow list is why I do not like juggling multiple projects -
"The Clap":
Yes, "the clap" sounds like a really nasty medical condition. In reality, it's a beautiful scarf/shawl that I've been talking about making for almost a year. The full name is Clapotis.
Originally I was going to make it to wear to the Yelp holiday party last December, but by the time I decided this there wasn't realistically enough time for me to make it. Or at least do it right. After that other projects took priority. Finally I broken down and casted-on this project last week. Then I frogged it because I messed up and I didn't feel I could figure out where the mistake was. Additionally I really wanted a more in-depth aide to help me through this project. One of the girls at "yarn heaven" told me about the Rav group where I could source a very nifty excel spreadsheet that detailed the pattern. Since I want to make this as pain free as possible I took it one step further and copied all the repeat directions the number of times need. In the end I have a spreadsheet which I believe to have every row of this accounted for. No counting in an ad-hock fashion how many repeats I've done this time. It's too disorganized and confusing for me. If it works out as planned I will post it on Rav for others to access. This is my first lace project and I figured it's a good introduction before I attack the overlay I plan to make for my grandmother's cedar chest.
Dish Rags:
Duh! It's Dish Rag Tag time so now is when I must make everyone I've ever known dish rags. In reality, three batches. That is all I can say about that at this time. Sorry folks!
Socks:
The July Sock Club socks and I still haven't kissed and made up. I've thought about though! It is getting to that time of year to turn to forgiveness, right!? I'm also in the process of developing the pattern for BFF's Birthday socks. I picked out the yarn last weekend for said pair. A beautiful shade of blue alpaca yarn has been lying on my ottoman just waiting to be caked.
Misc:
There are other miscellaneous project being made here and there as needed. I need to make myself another Brangelina Hat one of these days. I can't for the life of me figure out where it went, but know that it was the warmest hat I had all winter so another hat must be made. Also, I'm going to make myself a Unoriginal Hat. I've had the yarn for that since last December's trip to Lorna's Laces.
This weekend is all about knitting hands down! Four straight days of knitting which started last night. It also marks a potentially expensive weekend. As of last night Stitches Midwest 2009 opened and runs through Sunday. I am only going one day, but will have enough time to do some major damage. Last year I only spent a whopping $14... ok, maybe over $15 when you factor in tax. This year, since I've expanded my project base anything is possible. It will also be a time to bond with my knitting peeps from all over the area. I'm really looking forward to it. I'm thinking about taking my good camera to document the event, but that is yet to be decided.
Speaking of cameras and pictures. . . The lazy side of me wishes there was some way to upload picture to Flickr and Facebook at the same time or somehow have a bridge between the two services. I have a ton of pictures from Monday that I want to post on both sites however it gets to tedious and time consuming to do so. I've already started, but it's a small start.(Ok, rant over.)
With Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur right around the corner I found this of idea of interest. I believe the premise to be a means to encourage others to ask others for forgiveness. An interesting way of intergrating the tradition of the high holidays and social networking:
Project Forgiveness
Posted using ShareThis
Until later . . .
The follow list is why I do not like juggling multiple projects -
"The Clap":
Yes, "the clap" sounds like a really nasty medical condition. In reality, it's a beautiful scarf/shawl that I've been talking about making for almost a year. The full name is Clapotis.
Originally I was going to make it to wear to the Yelp holiday party last December, but by the time I decided this there wasn't realistically enough time for me to make it. Or at least do it right. After that other projects took priority. Finally I broken down and casted-on this project last week. Then I frogged it because I messed up and I didn't feel I could figure out where the mistake was. Additionally I really wanted a more in-depth aide to help me through this project. One of the girls at "yarn heaven" told me about the Rav group where I could source a very nifty excel spreadsheet that detailed the pattern. Since I want to make this as pain free as possible I took it one step further and copied all the repeat directions the number of times need. In the end I have a spreadsheet which I believe to have every row of this accounted for. No counting in an ad-hock fashion how many repeats I've done this time. It's too disorganized and confusing for me. If it works out as planned I will post it on Rav for others to access. This is my first lace project and I figured it's a good introduction before I attack the overlay I plan to make for my grandmother's cedar chest.
Dish Rags:
Duh! It's Dish Rag Tag time so now is when I must make everyone I've ever known dish rags. In reality, three batches. That is all I can say about that at this time. Sorry folks!
Socks:
The July Sock Club socks and I still haven't kissed and made up. I've thought about though! It is getting to that time of year to turn to forgiveness, right!? I'm also in the process of developing the pattern for BFF's Birthday socks. I picked out the yarn last weekend for said pair. A beautiful shade of blue alpaca yarn has been lying on my ottoman just waiting to be caked.
Misc:
There are other miscellaneous project being made here and there as needed. I need to make myself another Brangelina Hat one of these days. I can't for the life of me figure out where it went, but know that it was the warmest hat I had all winter so another hat must be made. Also, I'm going to make myself a Unoriginal Hat. I've had the yarn for that since last December's trip to Lorna's Laces.
This weekend is all about knitting hands down! Four straight days of knitting which started last night. It also marks a potentially expensive weekend. As of last night Stitches Midwest 2009 opened and runs through Sunday. I am only going one day, but will have enough time to do some major damage. Last year I only spent a whopping $14... ok, maybe over $15 when you factor in tax. This year, since I've expanded my project base anything is possible. It will also be a time to bond with my knitting peeps from all over the area. I'm really looking forward to it. I'm thinking about taking my good camera to document the event, but that is yet to be decided.
Speaking of cameras and pictures. . . The lazy side of me wishes there was some way to upload picture to Flickr and Facebook at the same time or somehow have a bridge between the two services. I have a ton of pictures from Monday that I want to post on both sites however it gets to tedious and time consuming to do so. I've already started, but it's a small start.(Ok, rant over.)
With Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur right around the corner I found this of idea of interest. I believe the premise to be a means to encourage others to ask others for forgiveness. An interesting way of intergrating the tradition of the high holidays and social networking:
Project Forgiveness
Posted using ShareThis
Until later . . .
*_______* Is The New *_______*
Ah, yes, the joys of a short week - I get the days mixed up. . .
• Thursday is the new Wednesday
• Stupid is the new Black (taken from KP's friend)
• Twinkies are the new Marshmallows
• Backpack is the new Knitting Bag
• 5 days is the new 2-3 days
• Circulars are the new DPNs
• Dish rags are the new Socks
• Walking is the new Running
• Spreadsheets are the new post-its
• Rock is the new Pop
• Organization is the new disorganization
• Texting is the new e-mail
• Oatmeal is the new Chocolate
• Knitting is the new Yoga
Until later . . .
• Thursday is the new Wednesday
• Stupid is the new Black (taken from KP's friend)
• Twinkies are the new Marshmallows
• Backpack is the new Knitting Bag
• 5 days is the new 2-3 days
• Circulars are the new DPNs
• Dish rags are the new Socks
• Walking is the new Running
• Spreadsheets are the new post-its
• Rock is the new Pop
• Organization is the new disorganization
• Texting is the new e-mail
• Oatmeal is the new Chocolate
• Knitting is the new Yoga
Until later . . .
8.9.09
I Wish It Was The Percentage
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 8, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 90
Squares Ready to be Added: 1
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 645
With all that out of the way - I wish it was 90% and not just 90 square. How nice would that be!? KP told me something wonderful today about this fine project. It had to do with the double squares on the project. If you scroll down on the blog post ->Picture with big squares you will see that there are double squares. Or, as I like to call them "the really big squares." These really big squares count toward four squares. Yes people! FOUR! If I could have done cart-wheels when I heard this.
All-in-all, blankie is coming along nicely and I'm pleased with its progression.
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 90
Squares Ready to be Added: 1
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 645
With all that out of the way - I wish it was 90% and not just 90 square. How nice would that be!? KP told me something wonderful today about this fine project. It had to do with the double squares on the project. If you scroll down on the blog post ->Picture with big squares you will see that there are double squares. Or, as I like to call them "the really big squares." These really big squares count toward four squares. Yes people! FOUR! If I could have done cart-wheels when I heard this.
All-in-all, blankie is coming along nicely and I'm pleased with its progression.
Until later . . .
7.9.09
Summer's Last Hurrah
Even though the Autumnal Equinox doesn't take place until September 22, 2009 at 5:18 EDT, the end of Summer 2009 took place today. Or, at least that is how most I know view Labor Day. Kids are in school, it's no longer ok to where white (or at least according to some southerns), it's getting dark out earlier and earlier everyday and the temperatures are starting to lean towards the cooler side of the thermometer.
This weekend, like many, went by in the blink of an eye. Though I'm trying not to think of it, I know winter is right around the corner. All this got me thinking about Summer 2009. Where did it go? What did I do all summer? I know I was busy, and not only with knitting stuff and work, but I can't seem to quantify it with an actual list of events - just random memories here and there.
My "last hurrah" rounded-out things very nicely. Many laughs were exchanged and many memories made. I will never forget the gorgeous translucent pink moon I saw illuminate the skyline as drove into the city. Leafs are starting to coat the path I've walked time and time again over the past three months. And, how could one forget the shock of having a moth taking a nose-dive down their shirt while talking and hanging out around a warm fire with friends. (Yes, some of the laughs were a direct result of my reaction to the above event.)
Today I was torn on how to spend my time. First and foremost, I slept in. Then it was a question of do I get lost in another long walk, spend my day knitting and watching movies or get my ass out of the house and actually take advantage of the beautiful weather. I settled on a combination of all three options.
Like all things, summer must come to an end. When all said and done, I will look back on this past season with fondness. It was one filled with lots of memories and good times.
Happy Labor Day!
Until later . . .
This weekend, like many, went by in the blink of an eye. Though I'm trying not to think of it, I know winter is right around the corner. All this got me thinking about Summer 2009. Where did it go? What did I do all summer? I know I was busy, and not only with knitting stuff and work, but I can't seem to quantify it with an actual list of events - just random memories here and there.
My "last hurrah" rounded-out things very nicely. Many laughs were exchanged and many memories made. I will never forget the gorgeous translucent pink moon I saw illuminate the skyline as drove into the city. Leafs are starting to coat the path I've walked time and time again over the past three months. And, how could one forget the shock of having a moth taking a nose-dive down their shirt while talking and hanging out around a warm fire with friends. (Yes, some of the laughs were a direct result of my reaction to the above event.)
Today I was torn on how to spend my time. First and foremost, I slept in. Then it was a question of do I get lost in another long walk, spend my day knitting and watching movies or get my ass out of the house and actually take advantage of the beautiful weather. I settled on a combination of all three options.
Like all things, summer must come to an end. When all said and done, I will look back on this past season with fondness. It was one filled with lots of memories and good times.
Happy Labor Day!
Until later . . .
3.9.09
More On Forgiveness
It started over a week ago when I sent someone who was a friend of mine in Jr. High a message via Facebook thanking them for introducing me to one of my best friends. Yes, it was a random message, and I acknowledged that, but it was something I had always said I would do had I ever spoken to this person again. So I did.
I don't know what I had anticipated their response to this message to be. I really didn't want a response back. (I just wanted to make sure I had expressed my appreciate.) However, I got one. One that I would never have anticipated.
The Cliff Notes Version:
They had actually wondered how I knew Moral Compass as they didn't remember introducing us. Furthermore, their intention for introducing us was probably more selfish based than it was intended for our personal benefit. **Alrighty then!** As I continued to read the message this individual basically went into an apology for their behavior towards me during our time as "friends." Apparently they had intentionally been mean to me during our Jr. High days. They were happy to know they had done something right by me, but still felt bad about their actions towards me.
WOW! Just WOW!
The message ended by stating that they hoped I could forgive them, but would understand if I couldn't.
WOW! Just WOW!
I started thinking back to every memory I had of Jr. High. Yes, it wasn't a walk in the park, but whose Jr. High years were? I started to question everything wondering if every thing I had gone through was a result of this individual's, who I thought was my friend, actions.
As I said, that was a week ago. I haven't replied back to them. I don't know exactly what to say. What I want to say. I know I have been through far worse since those days. I know what my philosophy towards forgiveness is as well. Maybe it's this individual who needs to forgive themselves?! When all is
said and done, when I have the words I write this individual back and let them know where I stand.
In a few weeks I'm suppose to meet-up with another Jr. High "peep" who was part of our group as well and still good friends with the individual in question. They are visiting the area and wanted to visit and catch up. Part of me is excited, the other part a little nervous what other information may come to light. Whatever the case may be, the timing of all this is ironic with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur just around the corner.
A time when I think about forgiveness just that much more than I do during the remainder of the year.
Until later . . .
I don't know what I had anticipated their response to this message to be. I really didn't want a response back. (I just wanted to make sure I had expressed my appreciate.) However, I got one. One that I would never have anticipated.
The Cliff Notes Version:
They had actually wondered how I knew Moral Compass as they didn't remember introducing us. Furthermore, their intention for introducing us was probably more selfish based than it was intended for our personal benefit. **Alrighty then!** As I continued to read the message this individual basically went into an apology for their behavior towards me during our time as "friends." Apparently they had intentionally been mean to me during our Jr. High days. They were happy to know they had done something right by me, but still felt bad about their actions towards me.
WOW! Just WOW!
The message ended by stating that they hoped I could forgive them, but would understand if I couldn't.
WOW! Just WOW!
I started thinking back to every memory I had of Jr. High. Yes, it wasn't a walk in the park, but whose Jr. High years were? I started to question everything wondering if every thing I had gone through was a result of this individual's, who I thought was my friend, actions.
As I said, that was a week ago. I haven't replied back to them. I don't know exactly what to say. What I want to say. I know I have been through far worse since those days. I know what my philosophy towards forgiveness is as well. Maybe it's this individual who needs to forgive themselves?! When all is
said and done, when I have the words I write this individual back and let them know where I stand.
In a few weeks I'm suppose to meet-up with another Jr. High "peep" who was part of our group as well and still good friends with the individual in question. They are visiting the area and wanted to visit and catch up. Part of me is excited, the other part a little nervous what other information may come to light. Whatever the case may be, the timing of all this is ironic with Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur just around the corner.
A time when I think about forgiveness just that much more than I do during the remainder of the year.
Until later . . .
"P.S. I Knit"
In 1994 I got my first e-mail address through the university I was attending. It was BFF that told me about e-mail addresses and that I should ask my campus technology department about getting one. E-mail? Technology department? WTF!? Given my love of technology,and dislike of my handwriting, e-mail and texting is my primary means of communication. I chuckle when I think back on that moment in time when all of these things were completely foreign to me.
From time-to-time when I start going through old boxes looking for something I typically end up stumbling upon my manila envelope busting with old letters from back in the "good ol' days" when writing an actual letter was my primary means for communications with those far from me. Most of the letters are from BFF and my Aunt with cards and letter from others mixed in. As I read the letters I think about how powerful an actual pen and paper letter can be vs. the here-and-now e-mail message. Regardless, I always get nostalgic. How could I not?
When I stumbled upon the Rav group "P.S. I Knit" I was intrigued. The idea behind this group is simple:
"In an world filled increasingly by e-mails, private messaging and Facebook wall posts, we think it’s time to relax, slow down, and return to simpler times by bringing back the hand-written letter."
I love it! What a fantastic idea. So I signed up. My first pen pal is located in London. Yes, I said first. With round one barely under way I signed up for a second pen pal. I'm not sure how many pen pals I'll take on, but I think two is a manageable start.
The other plus to this pen pal exchange - I have a great excuse to pick up some of the super cute stationary that I drool over when I'm at stationary and craft stores. (Hmmm. . . Maybe that was my true motivating factor - an excuse to buy stationary.)
Until later . . .
From time-to-time when I start going through old boxes looking for something I typically end up stumbling upon my manila envelope busting with old letters from back in the "good ol' days" when writing an actual letter was my primary means for communications with those far from me. Most of the letters are from BFF and my Aunt with cards and letter from others mixed in. As I read the letters I think about how powerful an actual pen and paper letter can be vs. the here-and-now e-mail message. Regardless, I always get nostalgic. How could I not?
When I stumbled upon the Rav group "P.S. I Knit" I was intrigued. The idea behind this group is simple:
"In an world filled increasingly by e-mails, private messaging and Facebook wall posts, we think it’s time to relax, slow down, and return to simpler times by bringing back the hand-written letter."
I love it! What a fantastic idea. So I signed up. My first pen pal is located in London. Yes, I said first. With round one barely under way I signed up for a second pen pal. I'm not sure how many pen pals I'll take on, but I think two is a manageable start.
The other plus to this pen pal exchange - I have a great excuse to pick up some of the super cute stationary that I drool over when I'm at stationary and craft stores. (Hmmm. . . Maybe that was my true motivating factor - an excuse to buy stationary.)
Until later . . .
2.9.09
Picture Correction
• How many photographers really step foot in front of their own camera on a regular, voluntary basis?
• Use to think Jewish mothers were trained by the CIA/FBI; now I realize it's the other way around.
• Wouldn't it be nice of life we're like a photo editing program! You could just make it look totally different with the click of mouse.
• I didn't realize that you were mean to me until you told me you were. Thank you?!
• Go Dastardlies!
• 82 and 65 is a lot of squares.
• It was awkward.
• It's amazing what the projects you choose say about you.
• Yarn, yarn and more yarn.
• Murphy's Law - DRT style.
• You're suppose to drink the coffee - not spill it all over.
• The one person missed is the one known the least.
• Blue Coin
• One was missing and I didn't even know it.
Until later . . .
• Use to think Jewish mothers were trained by the CIA/FBI; now I realize it's the other way around.
• Wouldn't it be nice of life we're like a photo editing program! You could just make it look totally different with the click of mouse.
• I didn't realize that you were mean to me until you told me you were. Thank you?!
• Go Dastardlies!
• 82 and 65 is a lot of squares.
• It was awkward.
• It's amazing what the projects you choose say about you.
• Yarn, yarn and more yarn.
• Murphy's Law - DRT style.
• You're suppose to drink the coffee - not spill it all over.
• The one person missed is the one known the least.
• Blue Coin
• One was missing and I didn't even know it.
Until later . . .
1.9.09
Murphy's Law - DRT Style
My team's DRT box arrived yesterday.
I had been stalking the USPS site all day in anticipation. It didn't look as though it had moved from a local neighborhood sorting facility, but I knew better so I booked home as quickly as I could. I made mention to one of my coworkers about the package and how I was hoping to have it in the mail by the 7PM pick-up and she said that it was very ambitious of me. If I didn't get it in that pick-up I knew of a 8PM one not too far from me so it was very doable.
As I had suspected, when I got home there it was in my mailbox - the coveted DRT box. I ripped it open as I pulled it out. I didn't even bother to wait until I stepped foot in my place. (I was a little excited.) I immediately took out the dishrag cotton and started casting on. Didn't even pause to change out of my work clothes and into my street clothes. The next hour and a half was spent knitting as fast as I could. A bit of frogging took place because, well, I got caught up in how quickly I was going and I wasn't reading the yarn as I should have.
As soon as I was done I popped off my sofa, tagged the next knitter from my team, scrambled for a few things that I would need to send off the package, grabbed my keys and headed off for the 8PM pick-up.
That's when Murphy's Law kicked in.
Despite slower than I would have preferred drivers, a few red lights and mere fact that this USPS was not right down the street from me I got to the post office around 7:30/7:40ish. PLENTY of time to write a short note and pop that puppy in the mail drop. Yeah, not so much! As I went to close the box I noticed something was missing . . . like the dish rag I had just knit. WTF! (And that is the nice thought that crosses to mind.) I ran back to my car to find it was no where to be found.
At that point I decided to go back home and retrace my steps. Not finding it meant I'd have to knit another and I wanted to get that package in the mail that night. When I finally got back, it didn't take long to find. The next question I had to answer was - with 10 minutes left do I try to make it back? Sure! Why not! Traffic had been kind to me for the most part before; why wouldn't it be this time. HA! This time I was delayed by a train, many red lights and more drivers who believe in driving the speed limit. All said and done, I did not make the pick-up I had been hoping too. (Insert more expletives.) I can get a bit competitive at times and this was surely one of those times. I had been so dead-set on getting it out that same evening and would have if I hadn't dropped the dish rag.
Given that I was tired and starving (I hadn't eaten since lunch since I came home and started knitting) this all seemed 1000 times worse at the time. I didn't want to let my team down. Especially since I was the first one out of the gate. I wanted to set an kick-ass tone for the race. Instead, it felt like my ass was being kicked.
The box went out this morning and I notified my team as soon as I got to a computer. Everyone was excited to hear and post encouraging messages. It's nice to see everyone is so positive and supportive of one another.
I have to admit I'm a bit sad to be at the very beginning because there is no anticipation of how long it's going to take for you to get the box. However, I realize it's my job as team captain to be a cheerleader for the rest of the team. So, instead of stalking the USPS site to see when the box will arrive at my home, I'm now stalking the site to see when it will arrive at its next destination.
Go Dastardly Dishtaggers!
Until later . . .
I had been stalking the USPS site all day in anticipation. It didn't look as though it had moved from a local neighborhood sorting facility, but I knew better so I booked home as quickly as I could. I made mention to one of my coworkers about the package and how I was hoping to have it in the mail by the 7PM pick-up and she said that it was very ambitious of me. If I didn't get it in that pick-up I knew of a 8PM one not too far from me so it was very doable.
As I had suspected, when I got home there it was in my mailbox - the coveted DRT box. I ripped it open as I pulled it out. I didn't even bother to wait until I stepped foot in my place. (I was a little excited.) I immediately took out the dishrag cotton and started casting on. Didn't even pause to change out of my work clothes and into my street clothes. The next hour and a half was spent knitting as fast as I could. A bit of frogging took place because, well, I got caught up in how quickly I was going and I wasn't reading the yarn as I should have.
As soon as I was done I popped off my sofa, tagged the next knitter from my team, scrambled for a few things that I would need to send off the package, grabbed my keys and headed off for the 8PM pick-up.
That's when Murphy's Law kicked in.
Despite slower than I would have preferred drivers, a few red lights and mere fact that this USPS was not right down the street from me I got to the post office around 7:30/7:40ish. PLENTY of time to write a short note and pop that puppy in the mail drop. Yeah, not so much! As I went to close the box I noticed something was missing . . . like the dish rag I had just knit. WTF! (And that is the nice thought that crosses to mind.) I ran back to my car to find it was no where to be found.
At that point I decided to go back home and retrace my steps. Not finding it meant I'd have to knit another and I wanted to get that package in the mail that night. When I finally got back, it didn't take long to find. The next question I had to answer was - with 10 minutes left do I try to make it back? Sure! Why not! Traffic had been kind to me for the most part before; why wouldn't it be this time. HA! This time I was delayed by a train, many red lights and more drivers who believe in driving the speed limit. All said and done, I did not make the pick-up I had been hoping too. (Insert more expletives.) I can get a bit competitive at times and this was surely one of those times. I had been so dead-set on getting it out that same evening and would have if I hadn't dropped the dish rag.
Given that I was tired and starving (I hadn't eaten since lunch since I came home and started knitting) this all seemed 1000 times worse at the time. I didn't want to let my team down. Especially since I was the first one out of the gate. I wanted to set an kick-ass tone for the race. Instead, it felt like my ass was being kicked.
The box went out this morning and I notified my team as soon as I got to a computer. Everyone was excited to hear and post encouraging messages. It's nice to see everyone is so positive and supportive of one another.
I have to admit I'm a bit sad to be at the very beginning because there is no anticipation of how long it's going to take for you to get the box. However, I realize it's my job as team captain to be a cheerleader for the rest of the team. So, instead of stalking the USPS site to see when the box will arrive at my home, I'm now stalking the site to see when it will arrive at its next destination.
Go Dastardly Dishtaggers!
Until later . . .
The Dark Side Has Cookies!
What would Tuesday be without a blankie update . . .
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 1, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 82
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 654
It's been a slow week for blankie. However, I have been working a lot on the second one which I don't talk about as often. I don't need to have it finished for another 3 years or so. It's up to something like 65 squares. Not bad considering I hardly work on it right now.
During the past couple of weeks, when others here about this project I've gotten some interesting responses. Usually others can't believe that I've decided to take on such a great under taking. Then when I tell them I'm making two. . . Normally I wouldn't attempted to make two of these time consuming blankets. The second one is for my mom so I do it with much pleasure. When I was first starting blankie, mom saw me working on it and commented on beautiful it was. Then she said she'd like one. Even telling me she'd pay me to make it. First things first - I would never charge my mother. . . Come on! It's my mom. After I explained the depth of the project and that it's a copy righted pattern so I couldn't charge her even if I wanted too she told me she would understand if I choose not to make her one. After mulling it over for a few hours I decided to make it for her next milestone birthday. Nothing could ever come close to the gift I got her for her last milestone birthday so I figured this would be the next best thing.
All my postings about mini-skein swaps and pictures has one of my Rav friends considering starting this marathon project as well. My words of encouragement . . "Come to the dark side . . . We've got cookies!"
Until later . . .
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for September 1, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 82
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 654
It's been a slow week for blankie. However, I have been working a lot on the second one which I don't talk about as often. I don't need to have it finished for another 3 years or so. It's up to something like 65 squares. Not bad considering I hardly work on it right now.
During the past couple of weeks, when others here about this project I've gotten some interesting responses. Usually others can't believe that I've decided to take on such a great under taking. Then when I tell them I'm making two. . . Normally I wouldn't attempted to make two of these time consuming blankets. The second one is for my mom so I do it with much pleasure. When I was first starting blankie, mom saw me working on it and commented on beautiful it was. Then she said she'd like one. Even telling me she'd pay me to make it. First things first - I would never charge my mother. . . Come on! It's my mom. After I explained the depth of the project and that it's a copy righted pattern so I couldn't charge her even if I wanted too she told me she would understand if I choose not to make her one. After mulling it over for a few hours I decided to make it for her next milestone birthday. Nothing could ever come close to the gift I got her for her last milestone birthday so I figured this would be the next best thing.
All my postings about mini-skein swaps and pictures has one of my Rav friends considering starting this marathon project as well. My words of encouragement . . "Come to the dark side . . . We've got cookies!"
Until later . . .
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froggie knits like crazy by Tracey M. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.froggieknitslikecrazy.com.