By the time the first person reads this entry I will probably be sleeping. Or, at least I hope that is the case at the very least. Otherwise, I will be going for a stretch of 48 hours without sleep.
Yesterday was a crappy day. Period. Exclamation. And I'm not only talking about the weather. I was tired, crabby and physically not feelin' it. It was so bad that my laundry list of things I needed to get accomplished went out the door along with my overall motivation. It was just "one of those days." I did get one of the important things done so I convinced myself that the day was a success. By the time early evening arrived I quickly made my way back to bed. Well, I tried at least... However, that didn't last long. A friend convinced me to go out for the evening. Nothing super special, just a trip to B3 and dinner. (Yes, a hot and happening Friday evening people.) Actually, it was nice. It was just want I needed to get me out of my funk.
During the course of our outing I took advantage of the captive audience to bounce the news of my future schooling plans off them. More specifically, I wanted to discuss some of silly concerns I have (had) about my exact plans. I already knew the "rebuttal" to these concerns, but sometimes I need to hear it come from others in order to really get over myself. And to take it one step further, sometimes I need to hear it come from specific people because of the way I know they will communicate it to me. I was glad we got to have the conversation because it was the first time I was able to specifically articulate my thoughts around the venture and how I plan to use this education to compliment what I'm already doing professionally.
As predicted, as word of my plans hit the street - as I told my friends or they read my blog - I pretty much got the same reaction. The reaction I basically expected - "Yeah, that's what I figured." They've all seen it coming down the pipeline for sometime and have great confidence that I will be successful in this endeavor.
As for our adventures in B3 exploration and fine dining . . . My friend got what they needed and I started drooling over kitchen scales so I could weigh minis-skeins of yarn more accurately. (Yes, I will be getting help soon for this problem!) In all seriousness, I also got to educate my friend on the merits of paying the Dyson tax and coveted some super soft bath towels as I find myself wanting another huge bath sheet towel.
I guess it's true that sometimes it's the small things in life that truly make a difference!
Until later . . .
31.10.09
29.10.09
Stepping Back
As my birthday nears I usually start to take stock of the current state of affairs in my life and take a glance back to see what all has taken place over the past months/year. With all that has been going on lately in my life I find myself doing this a bit more than usual these days.
It's truly been a crazy and somewhat eventful year. It's been another year of stress, strain and concern. However, there have been some good thing as well that I don't recognize as often as I should.
During this last flash - back/current/forward I've put a lot of things into perspective (again). It also prompted a new goal list - mostly short term stuff, but it's better than having no goals at all. I've been functioning on the fly for almost two years now and as nice as it is to not really plan out anything and just take things as they come there is something nice about having goals to work towards accomplishing. During this process I came to the expected conclusion that going back to school (again) will be necessary for me to take my career to its next destination. This won't come as shock to a lot of people who know me. I haven't exactly hidden where my professional interests and aspirations are taking me these days. The special project I worked on this past August and a project I will be working on soon just confirmed what I already knew. I use to joke that it would be nice to be a professional student. Lately, my jokes are seeming to be reality. Guess the joke is on me. The when and how of this realization are still in question. It's just nice to know the what portion at the very least.
As for other goals - learning to sky dive solo share the top spot. Unfortunately, I have to wait until spring at the very least for at these top two items. The chilly fall/winter weather doesn't work well for what I want to learn. So, in the meantime I will be keeping warm inside and working on fine-tuning my knitting skills.
I guess the above is all about looking forward. There is still the matters of back and current. I try not to look back, but it's hard not too. How can you not when it's played such an influential role in the current view of things? I'd like to think that I would have done the things I have over the past year or so had the past been different for me, but there is no way to really tell. I'd also like to think I'd have the great friends I do as well. Actually, I would bet dollars to donuts I'd at least be friends with KP - or at the very least met her. I guess this is one time I can say "it is what it is" without feeling like it's a cop-out statement. That is one thing that truly is what it is.
A year later my original "fear list" is pretty much down to one big item (and one small one). My fear of sewing machines was conquered a few months ago. I was very proud of myself. I feel dorky when I say that, but I've been afraid of them since the unfortunately home economics accident in 6th grade. That was over twenty years ago - I've earned a moment of recognition! As for the "big" fear, I don't know that I'll ever get the chance to face it. Or, if it's really a fear anymore. I think now it's just something I consider doing from time-to-time. Maybe it's better left untouched, but there is a part of me that feels the need to face it. Only time will tell I guess. If I've learned one thing, I don't make any declarations of certainty like I use - at least when it comes to certain subjects.
It's amazing how you can change your mind over time.
Until later . . .
It's truly been a crazy and somewhat eventful year. It's been another year of stress, strain and concern. However, there have been some good thing as well that I don't recognize as often as I should.
During this last flash - back/current/forward I've put a lot of things into perspective (again). It also prompted a new goal list - mostly short term stuff, but it's better than having no goals at all. I've been functioning on the fly for almost two years now and as nice as it is to not really plan out anything and just take things as they come there is something nice about having goals to work towards accomplishing. During this process I came to the expected conclusion that going back to school (again) will be necessary for me to take my career to its next destination. This won't come as shock to a lot of people who know me. I haven't exactly hidden where my professional interests and aspirations are taking me these days. The special project I worked on this past August and a project I will be working on soon just confirmed what I already knew. I use to joke that it would be nice to be a professional student. Lately, my jokes are seeming to be reality. Guess the joke is on me. The when and how of this realization are still in question. It's just nice to know the what portion at the very least.
As for other goals - learning to sky dive solo share the top spot. Unfortunately, I have to wait until spring at the very least for at these top two items. The chilly fall/winter weather doesn't work well for what I want to learn. So, in the meantime I will be keeping warm inside and working on fine-tuning my knitting skills.
I guess the above is all about looking forward. There is still the matters of back and current. I try not to look back, but it's hard not too. How can you not when it's played such an influential role in the current view of things? I'd like to think that I would have done the things I have over the past year or so had the past been different for me, but there is no way to really tell. I'd also like to think I'd have the great friends I do as well. Actually, I would bet dollars to donuts I'd at least be friends with KP - or at the very least met her. I guess this is one time I can say "it is what it is" without feeling like it's a cop-out statement. That is one thing that truly is what it is.
A year later my original "fear list" is pretty much down to one big item (and one small one). My fear of sewing machines was conquered a few months ago. I was very proud of myself. I feel dorky when I say that, but I've been afraid of them since the unfortunately home economics accident in 6th grade. That was over twenty years ago - I've earned a moment of recognition! As for the "big" fear, I don't know that I'll ever get the chance to face it. Or, if it's really a fear anymore. I think now it's just something I consider doing from time-to-time. Maybe it's better left untouched, but there is a part of me that feels the need to face it. Only time will tell I guess. If I've learned one thing, I don't make any declarations of certainty like I use - at least when it comes to certain subjects.
It's amazing how you can change your mind over time.
Until later . . .
28.10.09
Yelp My Lunchbox
• Who decided 80's styles were back in fashion? I need to have a long talk with them, stat!
• Four countries in 24 hour, damn we're good!
• It's all a waiting game
• You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
• Calm, cool and collected . . . and I didn't even realize what I was doing
• Stash Reorganization
• I admit that I am that way . . . that's got to count for something!
• Apparently I never have to worry about going hungry
• From now on they do not have a name; they are simply known as "your friend"
• "Great, now I look like the crazy lady who talks to herself."
• Beware of the "Look Of Death"
• Apparently they didn't uncover "that thing" so it will be just between us ;)
• Ok, so I got tad bit excited and went overboard, can you blame me!?
• WOW! - I've never experience so much sucking-up - WOW!
Until later . . .
• Four countries in 24 hour, damn we're good!
• It's all a waiting game
• You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
• Calm, cool and collected . . . and I didn't even realize what I was doing
• Stash Reorganization
• I admit that I am that way . . . that's got to count for something!
• Apparently I never have to worry about going hungry
• From now on they do not have a name; they are simply known as "your friend"
• "Great, now I look like the crazy lady who talks to herself."
• Beware of the "Look Of Death"
• Apparently they didn't uncover "that thing" so it will be just between us ;)
• Ok, so I got tad bit excited and went overboard, can you blame me!?
• WOW! - I've never experience so much sucking-up - WOW!
Until later . . .
27.10.09
Alternate Uses
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for October 27, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 225
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 511
I'd have to say, I made respectable progress on blankie this week. I also FINALLY sent off the minis I promised awkwardgirl so she could start hers (one less thing on the to do list).
Over the past months, as people have admired blankie, and as it has changed shape, they have given me ideas for alternate uses. It wasn't until this weekend that I decided to compile theses ideas, along with my own, into a list. Below is the beginning is what I have so far:
• Coaster
• Placemat
• Ottoman Cover
• Head Cover
• Laptop Cover
• Shawl/Prayer Shawl
• Table Cloth
• Area Rug
• Tube Top
• Strapless Dress
• Wall Tapestry
• Snuggie
I'll be interested to see what other ideas are suggested/I come up with as time goes on because some of the ones I've received thus far have been truly interesting.
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 225
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 511
I'd have to say, I made respectable progress on blankie this week. I also FINALLY sent off the minis I promised awkwardgirl so she could start hers (one less thing on the to do list).
Over the past months, as people have admired blankie, and as it has changed shape, they have given me ideas for alternate uses. It wasn't until this weekend that I decided to compile theses ideas, along with my own, into a list. Below is the beginning is what I have so far:
• Coaster
• Placemat
• Ottoman Cover
• Head Cover
• Laptop Cover
• Shawl/Prayer Shawl
• Table Cloth
• Area Rug
• Tube Top
• Strapless Dress
• Wall Tapestry
• Snuggie
I'll be interested to see what other ideas are suggested/I come up with as time goes on because some of the ones I've received thus far have been truly interesting.
Until later . . .
26.10.09
No Laughing Matter
The combination of rainy days and a head of hair that needs to be cut badly has had me exclaiming on several occasions that I would be thrilled to just shave all my hair off. It would make things so much easier. Everyone I've said this to has laughed after I made the comment. Well, everyone except me because in the back of my mind I think of the person I know who was just diagnosed with breast cancer and may not have a choice as to what happens with their hair.
Yeah, it's no longer a laughing matter after I think of her. And yes, I know that she won't necessarily lose her hair, but still the chances are good if she undergoes chemo. I don't know this person very well. She's closer to a good friend of mine than I. Still, she's one of the nicest people I know and someone I do care about.
The good news is that it was caught early and she's getting treatment. She also has one of the most positive outlooks on life which gives me more trust that she will have the strength it takes to beat this disease. It's just all so surreal (as many things in life can be).
This is definitely one of those posts that truly does not have any rhyme or reason to it. I don't have an agenda or a true point I want to make. I guess my heart is hurting a bit for her. A part of me feels guilty because I get boggled down from time-to-time by things going on in my life and know that it could be a lot worse, but still can't shake my woos. Lastly, all this takes me back to when we learned of my dad's cancer diagnosis. Though the prognosis for her is a lot different than it was for my dad I can't help but go back to that place when you think about it. I've never known anyone to survive cancer. So this will be a first of me!
The last thing I will leave you with today is that my prayers go out to her and her family as they start the journey to recovery.
Until later . . .
Yeah, it's no longer a laughing matter after I think of her. And yes, I know that she won't necessarily lose her hair, but still the chances are good if she undergoes chemo. I don't know this person very well. She's closer to a good friend of mine than I. Still, she's one of the nicest people I know and someone I do care about.
The good news is that it was caught early and she's getting treatment. She also has one of the most positive outlooks on life which gives me more trust that she will have the strength it takes to beat this disease. It's just all so surreal (as many things in life can be).
This is definitely one of those posts that truly does not have any rhyme or reason to it. I don't have an agenda or a true point I want to make. I guess my heart is hurting a bit for her. A part of me feels guilty because I get boggled down from time-to-time by things going on in my life and know that it could be a lot worse, but still can't shake my woos. Lastly, all this takes me back to when we learned of my dad's cancer diagnosis. Though the prognosis for her is a lot different than it was for my dad I can't help but go back to that place when you think about it. I've never known anyone to survive cancer. So this will be a first of me!
The last thing I will leave you with today is that my prayers go out to her and her family as they start the journey to recovery.
Until later . . .
24.10.09
Sleep Optional
After our adventures in travel last night I didn't get to sleep until late. Then I had a nightmare in the middle of the night. Unlike a prior nightmare I had recently, I did wake up in a panic and getting back to sleep was a challenge. So, when I finally did awake for good later in the morning I was dragging, but I knew it was going to be a pleasant day because we were going to Switzerland so I pushed myself out the door.
Once in Switzerland, we walked around our destination a few times (which is standard for our trips to this neutral land). Then we spent the remainder of the day relaxing and recapping the events of the past two days - and contemplating about other wonders of the world.
As evening came to pass, I was so tired from our adventures, and my lack of sleep, that I retired my passport for the day. I even passed up a last minute invite to England . . . Have to save something for next weekend, right!?
Until later . . .
Once in Switzerland, we walked around our destination a few times (which is standard for our trips to this neutral land). Then we spent the remainder of the day relaxing and recapping the events of the past two days - and contemplating about other wonders of the world.
As evening came to pass, I was so tired from our adventures, and my lack of sleep, that I retired my passport for the day. I even passed up a last minute invite to England . . . Have to save something for next weekend, right!?
Until later . . .
23.10.09
And The Moral Of The Story Is
First we went to Italy. It wasn't by choice. Our experience was . . . ummm . . . nice. However, as nice as it was we quickly decided that it wasn't for us. So we turned around and headed towards are intended destination - France. France was fun, but a little chaotic. On our way home to the good ol' U-S of A we decided to make a pit-stop in Greece. Greece was yummy!
Oh, and as for the moral of the story . . . don't forget your GPS.
Until later . . .
Oh, and as for the moral of the story . . . don't forget your GPS.
Until later . . .
22.10.09
Rewind
It was if someone had rewound life by 30 year or so . . . except they were my brother and I and I was my mom and dad.
The Niece: "OOOUUUCH!"
Froggie: "Eyers, don't hit your sister. "
The Nephew: "I had too, look at what she is doing to me."
Froggie: "Missy, don't kick your brother."
The Niece: "What are you talking about, I'm not doing anything."
I have to admit it took me a moment or two to start getting things under control because I had a split second flash back to when it was my brother and I being yelled at by our parents for playing rough. (Back then it wasn't all fun and games; now I appreciate the great memories). I have to say, I do understand where the nephew was coming from and I like to see that he's standing up to his big sis so early on. However, now that I am the adult I knew it was my responsibility to make sure their play didn't cause any harm to each other.
I guess you can say the "circle of life" rears its ugly head once again! And once again, it makes me smile and creates another great memory.
Until later . . .
The Niece: "OOOUUUCH!"
Froggie: "Eyers, don't hit your sister. "
The Nephew: "I had too, look at what she is doing to me."
Froggie: "Missy, don't kick your brother."
The Niece: "What are you talking about, I'm not doing anything."
I have to admit it took me a moment or two to start getting things under control because I had a split second flash back to when it was my brother and I being yelled at by our parents for playing rough. (Back then it wasn't all fun and games; now I appreciate the great memories). I have to say, I do understand where the nephew was coming from and I like to see that he's standing up to his big sis so early on. However, now that I am the adult I knew it was my responsibility to make sure their play didn't cause any harm to each other.
I guess you can say the "circle of life" rears its ugly head once again! And once again, it makes me smile and creates another great memory.
Until later . . .
FOs
Hell froze over!
I pulled myself away from the blankie long enough to complete two other projects. Well, one is an FO, the other is just a F, but it will be a FO very soon!
The Replacement Hat:
It's getting colder out so it was time to make a new Brangelina Hat since I somehow managed to lose the one I made last year. I'm thinking of making a matching scarf since Thick N' Quick is so warm. Stay tuned!
It Won't Be Orphaned For Long:
This is the first pair of socks I've made since I made the Sweet Sixteen sock in July. Actually, I can't remember the last time I made a pair of socks for me. Anyhow, this is what Dead Blue looks like in my favorite bootie sock pattern - Thatched.
I will point out that I hacked the pattern a bit. As I've learned in the past, if you're going to hack a pattern it's best to write down what you did the first time so you can repeat it. I sorta did this so it will be interesting making the second one.
Speaking of the next one . . .Right now, this bootie sock is an orphan, but not for long! The second one has been cast on and will be finished in no time now that I know how warm and comfy they are - yes, this mean I am now wearing just one sock to encourage the completion of the second. Yes, it's a geeky thing to do, but it motivates me to finish the pair and that is all that is important.
Until later . . .
I pulled myself away from the blankie long enough to complete two other projects. Well, one is an FO, the other is just a F, but it will be a FO very soon!
The Replacement Hat:
It's getting colder out so it was time to make a new Brangelina Hat since I somehow managed to lose the one I made last year. I'm thinking of making a matching scarf since Thick N' Quick is so warm. Stay tuned!
It Won't Be Orphaned For Long:
This is the first pair of socks I've made since I made the Sweet Sixteen sock in July. Actually, I can't remember the last time I made a pair of socks for me. Anyhow, this is what Dead Blue looks like in my favorite bootie sock pattern - Thatched.
I will point out that I hacked the pattern a bit. As I've learned in the past, if you're going to hack a pattern it's best to write down what you did the first time so you can repeat it. I sorta did this so it will be interesting making the second one.
Speaking of the next one . . .Right now, this bootie sock is an orphan, but not for long! The second one has been cast on and will be finished in no time now that I know how warm and comfy they are - yes, this mean I am now wearing just one sock to encourage the completion of the second. Yes, it's a geeky thing to do, but it motivates me to finish the pair and that is all that is important.
Until later . . .
21.10.09
Pixar Parody
I have to admit, whenever I've watched the opening to Pixar movies I've always wondered if I was being overly sensitive by looking at it from this perspective. Guess someone else sees it from the same perspective - and then put some humor to it.
(Warning: Not suitable for children)
(Warning: Not suitable for children)
Indian Summer
• My time as "just Froggie" was very short-lived. Crap Monkey!
• " . . . . all wrapped in a big red bow!"
• "Faith makes things possible; Not easy." (Repeat Often!)
• This is the stuff you learn on day one of the 101 class, how could they have not known to do this?
• Live Check? This does not compute, try again!
• Of course I'm the geek who would want a copy of their prints.
• Police Cars. Fire Trucks. An Ambulance. Just your average night in the hood!
• The whole discussion sent chills up my spine.
• I could be dirt poor, living in a cardboard box, but as long as she is alive I can count on being fed.
• HR Forensics
• DRT withdrawal has set in.
• It just doesn't seem like the right avatar for me.
• Brain bleach, please!!!
• For a brief moment I forgot where I was.
Until later . . .
• " . . . . all wrapped in a big red bow!"
• "Faith makes things possible; Not easy." (Repeat Often!)
• This is the stuff you learn on day one of the 101 class, how could they have not known to do this?
• Live Check? This does not compute, try again!
• Of course I'm the geek who would want a copy of their prints.
• Police Cars. Fire Trucks. An Ambulance. Just your average night in the hood!
• The whole discussion sent chills up my spine.
• I could be dirt poor, living in a cardboard box, but as long as she is alive I can count on being fed.
• HR Forensics
• DRT withdrawal has set in.
• It just doesn't seem like the right avatar for me.
• Brain bleach, please!!!
• For a brief moment I forgot where I was.
Until later . . .
20.10.09
Bicentennial Blankie
Today was another milestone . . . .
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for October 20, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 200
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 536
Like the 100 square milestone, getting to 200 squares is exciting. However (yes, there is of course a qualifier to this), it's just 200 squares. I did a little math. It's taken me approximately 5 months to get to 200 squares. That means I've been adding on average 40 squares a month. My 34th birthday is next month which means there is 13 months until my 35th birthday which is the date I've set as my goal to have this mammoth project done. If I keep up at this rate I will only have around 720 squares (+/-) completed, but not the 736 needed to complete the original size Shelly Kang made. And that is just for the "original size." Ok, so it doesn't seem impossible at this point, but when I think about it without specific numbers it does seem impossible.
However, that is if I keep up my average. Then you have to take the most important factor into consideration - where the hell am I going to get all the yarn for this thing. I know that I'm starting to sound like a broken record, but it's starting to boggle my mind. Yes, I will continue swapping and there are at least 9 things of yarn set aside for large squares which accounts for 36 squares and then there is my sock yarn stash which I will take from at some point. That hovers somewhere around 20 (+/-) squares. Ok, so now we're up to 56 (give or take). Still it's only 56 squares. That still leaves many, many more to source!!!
All this gets me wondering which famous person I'm going to get to convince all the knitters out there to send me their sock yarn scraps. Shelly Kang had the Yarn Harlot, why can't I have an advocate? Maybe Crazy Aunt Purl, or Oprah!? Ok, so Oprah isn't a knitter (at least not to my knowledge, but it would cool! Or, how about Kathy Griffin? I love her as well and she could make fun of me ALL she wanted! All right! All right! I'll stop dreaming. Back to reality. So, my quest to acquire yarn continues.
Even though blankie isn't finished, I'm starting to use to keep warm. At home I drape it length wise when I have my legs propped on the ottoman. When sitting at a desk I can fold it and use it as a lap blanket. It actually does keep me warm. I've also recently discovered that it will soon serve as a nice table cloth for my dining room table.
Blankie's growth is also becoming evident when I go to transport it. It has pretty much grown out of its Ziploc bag and it's taking up more and more room in my backpack. So, I purchased a new bag for blankie. I really didn't want to spend the money, but it cost basically nothing and I had a gift card for the store so . . .
I have to say, I really do like the bag - it's very whimsical. Now if they had only had skulled frogs. That would have made the bag even better! There are a bunch of pockets on the inside and one on the side. I decided not to bore y'all with pictures of all those.
In the past 5 months I've learned a lot about myself through this project. It's a funny thing to say, but it's true and I'm sure I will learn more in the months to come. Once this is all done I will share - promise!
Until later . . .
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for October 20, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 200
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 536
Like the 100 square milestone, getting to 200 squares is exciting. However (yes, there is of course a qualifier to this), it's just 200 squares. I did a little math. It's taken me approximately 5 months to get to 200 squares. That means I've been adding on average 40 squares a month. My 34th birthday is next month which means there is 13 months until my 35th birthday which is the date I've set as my goal to have this mammoth project done. If I keep up at this rate I will only have around 720 squares (+/-) completed, but not the 736 needed to complete the original size Shelly Kang made. And that is just for the "original size." Ok, so it doesn't seem impossible at this point, but when I think about it without specific numbers it does seem impossible.
However, that is if I keep up my average. Then you have to take the most important factor into consideration - where the hell am I going to get all the yarn for this thing. I know that I'm starting to sound like a broken record, but it's starting to boggle my mind. Yes, I will continue swapping and there are at least 9 things of yarn set aside for large squares which accounts for 36 squares and then there is my sock yarn stash which I will take from at some point. That hovers somewhere around 20 (+/-) squares. Ok, so now we're up to 56 (give or take). Still it's only 56 squares. That still leaves many, many more to source!!!
All this gets me wondering which famous person I'm going to get to convince all the knitters out there to send me their sock yarn scraps. Shelly Kang had the Yarn Harlot, why can't I have an advocate? Maybe Crazy Aunt Purl, or Oprah!? Ok, so Oprah isn't a knitter (at least not to my knowledge, but it would cool! Or, how about Kathy Griffin? I love her as well and she could make fun of me ALL she wanted! All right! All right! I'll stop dreaming. Back to reality. So, my quest to acquire yarn continues.
Even though blankie isn't finished, I'm starting to use to keep warm. At home I drape it length wise when I have my legs propped on the ottoman. When sitting at a desk I can fold it and use it as a lap blanket. It actually does keep me warm. I've also recently discovered that it will soon serve as a nice table cloth for my dining room table.
Blankie's growth is also becoming evident when I go to transport it. It has pretty much grown out of its Ziploc bag and it's taking up more and more room in my backpack. So, I purchased a new bag for blankie. I really didn't want to spend the money, but it cost basically nothing and I had a gift card for the store so . . .
Blankie's New Ride
I have to say, I really do like the bag - it's very whimsical. Now if they had only had skulled frogs. That would have made the bag even better! There are a bunch of pockets on the inside and one on the side. I decided not to bore y'all with pictures of all those.
In the past 5 months I've learned a lot about myself through this project. It's a funny thing to say, but it's true and I'm sure I will learn more in the months to come. Once this is all done I will share - promise!
Until later . . .
17.10.09
"Princess Purple Rabbit"
This was an interesting week.
At the beginning of the month, as one door was shutting, another one was opening for me without my knowledge. Ok, I had a bit of a clue, but honestly I didn't realize the timing of everything was going to be SO perfect. It was if it was, dare I use the word because I know I will never hear the end of it from BFF and possibly KP. . . beshert. Yes! There, I said it. (Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!)
It's not the perfect situation, but I actually think it will serve its purpose right now and be a positive stepping stone long-term. Or, as KP would say, "I have a good feeling about this." Ultimately time will tell the effect this has on my life and honestly it's the first decision I've made in some time that has me waiting with some sense of anticipation to find out what happens next.
Aside from these shutting doors, I also had some unexpected luck this week fiber wise. I attended a knit group I had been to once before because I was in the area. I liked the people so when I knew I was going to be in the area again I planned on joining the group. It just so happened one of the regulars has a cousin who lives in Germany and recently attended a crafts show where the infamous Wollmeise yarn was being sold. If you're not familiar with this yarn all I can say about it is that you can't get it in the US at any local LYS. There is only one online site, aside from the Wollmeise site, that sells the yarn. That means people in the states check the Wollmeise site in the middle of the night waiting for them to replenish their stock. This of course happens when they feel like replenishing the online stock. Others have flown over to Germany to specifically go to their shop.
As it turns out, this rare destashing was suppose to take place last week, but this individual (who consequently I now consider one of my best friends) couldn't make up their mind on which ones they wanted to keep so they had to delay a week. It was just meant to be... or, beshert.
Then there was the gift I received after having lunch with one of my friends I've known since the fourth grade. As we were saying our good-byes she remembered she had something for me. Turns out she spins and had spun some superwash merino wool for me in my all time favorite color - Purple! I have to say, it's so soft and pretty. I can think of SO many things to make with it. It was a truly lovely gift and I started telling everyone I knew about this immediately - because I'm a special kind of knitting geek.
To round out the week, I was informed by my youngest niece that she didn't believe that I made the pair of socks I was wearing (as she pointed to them). Then two seconds later, she told me she was going to knit and that I was going to teach her. O....K.... If she truly does have an interest in learning I would love to teach her. It was after all my aunt who originally taught me how to knit. (I think this is where I insert a link to the song "Circle Of Life.")
Until later . . .
At the beginning of the month, as one door was shutting, another one was opening for me without my knowledge. Ok, I had a bit of a clue, but honestly I didn't realize the timing of everything was going to be SO perfect. It was if it was, dare I use the word because I know I will never hear the end of it from BFF and possibly KP. . . beshert. Yes! There, I said it. (Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!)
It's not the perfect situation, but I actually think it will serve its purpose right now and be a positive stepping stone long-term. Or, as KP would say, "I have a good feeling about this." Ultimately time will tell the effect this has on my life and honestly it's the first decision I've made in some time that has me waiting with some sense of anticipation to find out what happens next.
Aside from these shutting doors, I also had some unexpected luck this week fiber wise. I attended a knit group I had been to once before because I was in the area. I liked the people so when I knew I was going to be in the area again I planned on joining the group. It just so happened one of the regulars has a cousin who lives in Germany and recently attended a crafts show where the infamous Wollmeise yarn was being sold. If you're not familiar with this yarn all I can say about it is that you can't get it in the US at any local LYS. There is only one online site, aside from the Wollmeise site, that sells the yarn. That means people in the states check the Wollmeise site in the middle of the night waiting for them to replenish their stock. This of course happens when they feel like replenishing the online stock. Others have flown over to Germany to specifically go to their shop.
As it turns out, this rare destashing was suppose to take place last week, but this individual (who consequently I now consider one of my best friends) couldn't make up their mind on which ones they wanted to keep so they had to delay a week. It was just meant to be... or, beshert.
Then there was the gift I received after having lunch with one of my friends I've known since the fourth grade. As we were saying our good-byes she remembered she had something for me. Turns out she spins and had spun some superwash merino wool for me in my all time favorite color - Purple! I have to say, it's so soft and pretty. I can think of SO many things to make with it. It was a truly lovely gift and I started telling everyone I knew about this immediately - because I'm a special kind of knitting geek.
To round out the week, I was informed by my youngest niece that she didn't believe that I made the pair of socks I was wearing (as she pointed to them). Then two seconds later, she told me she was going to knit and that I was going to teach her. O....K.... If she truly does have an interest in learning I would love to teach her. It was after all my aunt who originally taught me how to knit. (I think this is where I insert a link to the song "Circle Of Life.")
Until later . . .
14.10.09
Dreams Are Just Dreams
• On the positive side, at least this time it didn't cause me to wake up in a panic.
• The foot always seems to take the longest.
• Too much freakin' food.
• It's strange having somewhat long nails.
• So, per their request I wrote out why I was so captivated.
• I'm usually not THAT lucky.
• You may think it's June Cleaver's block by the street name, but not by the stuff that happens on that street.
• I can't imagine what set him off so much that he'd hurt a dog.
• They remembered me . . . it made me feel so loved!
• Not all Target stores are created equal.
• It looked WAY different in real life vs. its picture online. I'm glad I saw it in real life.
• This time the "E" was dropped from the other part of my name.
• To them I was just "Froggie" and that's how I wanted it to be because I knew eventually they'd figure out who I was related too.
• Each time I see them they look so different.
Until later . . .
• The foot always seems to take the longest.
• Too much freakin' food.
• It's strange having somewhat long nails.
• So, per their request I wrote out why I was so captivated.
• I'm usually not THAT lucky.
• You may think it's June Cleaver's block by the street name, but not by the stuff that happens on that street.
• I can't imagine what set him off so much that he'd hurt a dog.
• They remembered me . . . it made me feel so loved!
• Not all Target stores are created equal.
• It looked WAY different in real life vs. its picture online. I'm glad I saw it in real life.
• This time the "E" was dropped from the other part of my name.
• To them I was just "Froggie" and that's how I wanted it to be because I knew eventually they'd figure out who I was related too.
• Each time I see them they look so different.
Until later . . .
13.10.09
Blankie Blame
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for October 13, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 174
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 562
I blame KP for my blankie obsession. KP blames me for hers since I was the one who told her about the project in the first place. Now, ackardgirl will be blaming me for getting her started on the blankie obsession. The thing is that I use to be very defensive about my participation regarding getting others addicted to this project. Now, I'm fine with it.
I believe that is all for now.
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 174
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 562
I blame KP for my blankie obsession. KP blames me for hers since I was the one who told her about the project in the first place. Now, ackardgirl will be blaming me for getting her started on the blankie obsession. The thing is that I use to be very defensive about my participation regarding getting others addicted to this project. Now, I'm fine with it.
I believe that is all for now.
Until later . . .
12.10.09
Line In The Sand
When some major change in my life happens I always start counting the days from when the change occurred. That was then; this is now. The line has drawn in the sand. Slowly, but surely the number of days starts to grow and counting doesn't make sense anymore because days have turned into weeks, months . . . ok, you get the picture.
So here I am, the line has been drawn - again. It's like someone put a note in my life file that says, "Froggie thrives on change so pour it on as thick and often as possible."
Don't get me wrong, I get that life is about change, but there is such a thing as too much change. Especially when you don't know where that change will take you. Yep, that's right. Miss Little Thrill Seeker here really doesn't like chaos and secretly prefers order and direction. Who knew!?
I think what makes me even more sensitive all this is that people like to tease me about these changes. The fact that I've moved so much and nothing seems constant in my life appears to be face game to people. As though it doesn't bother me so it's ok to pick at. They seem to think I like this.
Ok, my rant is over.
Until later . . .
So here I am, the line has been drawn - again. It's like someone put a note in my life file that says, "Froggie thrives on change so pour it on as thick and often as possible."
Don't get me wrong, I get that life is about change, but there is such a thing as too much change. Especially when you don't know where that change will take you. Yep, that's right. Miss Little Thrill Seeker here really doesn't like chaos and secretly prefers order and direction. Who knew!?
I think what makes me even more sensitive all this is that people like to tease me about these changes. The fact that I've moved so much and nothing seems constant in my life appears to be face game to people. As though it doesn't bother me so it's ok to pick at. They seem to think I like this.
Ok, my rant is over.
Until later . . .
11.10.09
Day Seven
Despite getting to sleep late, I got an early start today. Here are some of my thoughts and observations so far:
• Last weekend, one of my neighbors apparently felt it's ok to take my newspaper out of its plastic wrapping and read it since I hadn't gotten it first thing in the day. So, the first thing I had to do this morning was make sure I got it while it was all in one piece.
• I'm still trying to figure out why there would be a Police Officer at the library. It's the last place to strike me as having a problem with crime.
• I hope the man working at the library wasn't upset by the fact that they are open tomorrow. I just wanted to make sure - you never know which municipalities observe Columbus Day.
• It's cold - and I'm not thrilled with that fact. However, this weather does lend itself to some activities I'd love to do and can only be done during the fall.
• The plants still seem to be alive. I've had them over a week and I feel some sort of accomplishment. However, I'm starting to think I may need to move them into a larger pot so their roots can grow.
• I lost months and months and months of pictures when one of my memory cards decided it needed to be reformatted. I was sad, but surprisingly I'm not as upset as I thought I should be. It's very strange.
• A few weeks ago I got a manicure. The other day I noticed my nails are getting longer. Apparently this is what happens when I don't bite or pick at them. If there was anytime I would do that I figured it would be now. Now the pressure is on to keep them nice and strong.
• I need milk. Not a gallon, that's too much, but I can get a gallon cheaper at Aldi than I can get a half gallon at Jewel. Am I the only one who sees something wrong with this?
• I hate making deposits via ATMs because of this bad experience I had a long time ago doing so. Yes, it was a one time thing, but nonetheless, it stuck with me (like all bad experiences do). However, apparently now some ATMs are no muss, no fuss when it comes to making deposits and all you have to do is insert your check like you do a dollar bill in a concession machine. It reads the check for you and totals your deposits. As much as I don't like to go to the bank because of live check it's nice to know that things are being made easier these days.
• A friend of mine just opened a business and I suggested she see about hosting a Yelp party as part of their promotional activities. She said they were talking about doing so the other day. Seems great minds think alike!
The day is still young so I'm sure there is more to come.
Until later . . .
• Last weekend, one of my neighbors apparently felt it's ok to take my newspaper out of its plastic wrapping and read it since I hadn't gotten it first thing in the day. So, the first thing I had to do this morning was make sure I got it while it was all in one piece.
• I'm still trying to figure out why there would be a Police Officer at the library. It's the last place to strike me as having a problem with crime.
• I hope the man working at the library wasn't upset by the fact that they are open tomorrow. I just wanted to make sure - you never know which municipalities observe Columbus Day.
• It's cold - and I'm not thrilled with that fact. However, this weather does lend itself to some activities I'd love to do and can only be done during the fall.
• The plants still seem to be alive. I've had them over a week and I feel some sort of accomplishment. However, I'm starting to think I may need to move them into a larger pot so their roots can grow.
• I lost months and months and months of pictures when one of my memory cards decided it needed to be reformatted. I was sad, but surprisingly I'm not as upset as I thought I should be. It's very strange.
• A few weeks ago I got a manicure. The other day I noticed my nails are getting longer. Apparently this is what happens when I don't bite or pick at them. If there was anytime I would do that I figured it would be now. Now the pressure is on to keep them nice and strong.
• I need milk. Not a gallon, that's too much, but I can get a gallon cheaper at Aldi than I can get a half gallon at Jewel. Am I the only one who sees something wrong with this?
• I hate making deposits via ATMs because of this bad experience I had a long time ago doing so. Yes, it was a one time thing, but nonetheless, it stuck with me (like all bad experiences do). However, apparently now some ATMs are no muss, no fuss when it comes to making deposits and all you have to do is insert your check like you do a dollar bill in a concession machine. It reads the check for you and totals your deposits. As much as I don't like to go to the bank because of live check it's nice to know that things are being made easier these days.
• A friend of mine just opened a business and I suggested she see about hosting a Yelp party as part of their promotional activities. She said they were talking about doing so the other day. Seems great minds think alike!
The day is still young so I'm sure there is more to come.
Until later . . .
9.10.09
Day Five
The box is on the way back to Alabama.
We, the Dastardly Dishtaggers, FINALLY made it to the end of the DRT road! And it's been a long road. My original concern going into DRT this years as the weather. There had been so many bad hurricanes last year, I was concerned for the safety and well being of my teammates whom resided in the hurricane region. I also admit I was concerned about the box making it around that region as well. However, it was not the weather this year that was the biggest problem - at least for the Dastardlys; it was the USPS.
Back in September when the competition (swap started) things for the Dastardlys started off on a Murphy's Law note. Not only did I miss the cut off for the last mail pick-up of the night, that particular package spent several days in a Chicago sorting center waiting to make its way to Alaska. Note to y'all out there: When they say Priority Mail takes 2-3 days that is "just a suggestion" and not a guarantee despite the fact that it's marketed as such. (Yes, I heart the post office so much.)
We seem to be back on track once Purple Moose got the box and sent it off to sunny California. We were back on track! Or, at least we thought we were. Next thing we knew, one of our teammates was M.I.A. At one point we were so unsure and concerned about what had happened to this person messages on Rav and Twitter were posted trying to find them. Alas, they made us aware that they were ok. From there the box made it's way around the route smoothly. Ok, two "hiccups" wasn't a huge loss, right!? Ha! Before we knew it, the USPS was playing games with us again. (I'm telling you, the $4.80 you pay for priority service is a scam.) Before we knew it, messages of frustration where being exchanged amongst our group. And, I might have used a few of those words that would make a sailor blush as well.
In the end, we made it through and completed the race! I want to thank all my teammates for doing such an awesome job AND for keeping everyone's morale and spirits up. It's been a pleasure getting to know each of the ladies and look forward to next year's race!
Until later . . .
We, the Dastardly Dishtaggers, FINALLY made it to the end of the DRT road! And it's been a long road. My original concern going into DRT this years as the weather. There had been so many bad hurricanes last year, I was concerned for the safety and well being of my teammates whom resided in the hurricane region. I also admit I was concerned about the box making it around that region as well. However, it was not the weather this year that was the biggest problem - at least for the Dastardlys; it was the USPS.
Back in September when the competition (swap started) things for the Dastardlys started off on a Murphy's Law note. Not only did I miss the cut off for the last mail pick-up of the night, that particular package spent several days in a Chicago sorting center waiting to make its way to Alaska. Note to y'all out there: When they say Priority Mail takes 2-3 days that is "just a suggestion" and not a guarantee despite the fact that it's marketed as such. (Yes, I heart the post office so much.)
We seem to be back on track once Purple Moose got the box and sent it off to sunny California. We were back on track! Or, at least we thought we were. Next thing we knew, one of our teammates was M.I.A. At one point we were so unsure and concerned about what had happened to this person messages on Rav and Twitter were posted trying to find them. Alas, they made us aware that they were ok. From there the box made it's way around the route smoothly. Ok, two "hiccups" wasn't a huge loss, right!? Ha! Before we knew it, the USPS was playing games with us again. (I'm telling you, the $4.80 you pay for priority service is a scam.) Before we knew it, messages of frustration where being exchanged amongst our group. And, I might have used a few of those words that would make a sailor blush as well.
In the end, we made it through and completed the race! I want to thank all my teammates for doing such an awesome job AND for keeping everyone's morale and spirits up. It's been a pleasure getting to know each of the ladies and look forward to next year's race!
Until later . . .
8.10.09
Cool Stuff
Credit for this one goes to Purple Moose. I HAD to post this because besides the fact that it's cool stuff, it also asks the age all questions - "Is knitting too violent?"
Enjoy!
Until later . . .
Enjoy!
Until later . . .
Day Four
It was suggested to me last night that I take a look at the book "The Year of Living Biblically." The premise of the book is that the author - a Jew by birth, not practice - attempted to follow the Torah - "as literally as possible."
Now, let's step back a moment, shall we!? Back in 2003/2004-ish I use to attend a weekly Torah study group at the home of an Orthdox Rabbi. From time-to-time, I also shared in the Shabbos with the Rabbi's family as well. During one of our discussions I attended we talked about the Mitzvot, or Jewish written laws, and how there were many of them. So, when I heard about the book and how the author at first started make a list of them and stopped somewhere around 100 or so I chuckled. "Yeah, I remember an Orthdox Rabbi once telling me that there were so many Mitzvot there is no way people could follow all of them," I commented with light-hearted tone. At the time I was given that information I didn't know how many, so I looked it up. There are 613 Mitzvot Jews are suppose to follow. That's a lot! As I researched all this I came up with this site - Judaism 101. (I know it looks a little cheesy but I like the way it brakes out all the categories.)
So, my friend and I were talking about the book and they were saying the writing wasn't so great, but it was keeping their attention. Then they went on to say this is not a hard-core serious book, but more light-hearted and sarcastically funny. Which then made me wonder if it would be better to listen to via audiobook as there is one thing I have realized over the years. . . it's hard to translate sarcasm into writing.
This all brings me to my acquisition of said book. Apparently my library likes this book enough to have two copies in print and audio. My plan? I have acquired one of the copies of this book and it's mine for the next month. After I read the book I will then listen to the audiobook. (See if my sarcasm theory has merit.)
As for my motivation to read the book, I've always found the practice of any religion fascinating. This interest started for me back in college when one of my then good friends tried to impose one of their religious beliefs on me while in turn justifying their reasons for not practicing one of their religion's strongly held beliefs. This is the first of many times my religious beliefs would be tested. What intrigued me more was the fact that they were acting in a hypocritical manner while telling me I was a bad person for not following things that weren't even part of the belief system I grew up with. How does that work again?
Nonetheless, it was what it was and has been a catalyst for many in-depth discussions about religion. Primarily, my observation of the pick-and-choose nature of it. That's part of the reason I'm really looking forward to reading this book. It's just yet another insight to how someone decides what is important enough to follow and what "laws" can be ignored to suit their lifestyle. I will be sure to update you on my journey through this book as I make my way.
Until later . . .
Now, let's step back a moment, shall we!? Back in 2003/2004-ish I use to attend a weekly Torah study group at the home of an Orthdox Rabbi. From time-to-time, I also shared in the Shabbos with the Rabbi's family as well. During one of our discussions I attended we talked about the Mitzvot, or Jewish written laws, and how there were many of them. So, when I heard about the book and how the author at first started make a list of them and stopped somewhere around 100 or so I chuckled. "Yeah, I remember an Orthdox Rabbi once telling me that there were so many Mitzvot there is no way people could follow all of them," I commented with light-hearted tone. At the time I was given that information I didn't know how many, so I looked it up. There are 613 Mitzvot Jews are suppose to follow. That's a lot! As I researched all this I came up with this site - Judaism 101. (I know it looks a little cheesy but I like the way it brakes out all the categories.)
So, my friend and I were talking about the book and they were saying the writing wasn't so great, but it was keeping their attention. Then they went on to say this is not a hard-core serious book, but more light-hearted and sarcastically funny. Which then made me wonder if it would be better to listen to via audiobook as there is one thing I have realized over the years. . . it's hard to translate sarcasm into writing.
This all brings me to my acquisition of said book. Apparently my library likes this book enough to have two copies in print and audio. My plan? I have acquired one of the copies of this book and it's mine for the next month. After I read the book I will then listen to the audiobook. (See if my sarcasm theory has merit.)
As for my motivation to read the book, I've always found the practice of any religion fascinating. This interest started for me back in college when one of my then good friends tried to impose one of their religious beliefs on me while in turn justifying their reasons for not practicing one of their religion's strongly held beliefs. This is the first of many times my religious beliefs would be tested. What intrigued me more was the fact that they were acting in a hypocritical manner while telling me I was a bad person for not following things that weren't even part of the belief system I grew up with. How does that work again?
Nonetheless, it was what it was and has been a catalyst for many in-depth discussions about religion. Primarily, my observation of the pick-and-choose nature of it. That's part of the reason I'm really looking forward to reading this book. It's just yet another insight to how someone decides what is important enough to follow and what "laws" can be ignored to suit their lifestyle. I will be sure to update you on my journey through this book as I make my way.
Until later . . .
7.10.09
Day Three - Round Two
Because I can, there is a second round of thoughts for today . . .
• "That 70's Show" yarn - LOVE IT!
• Maybe I was the right person for the task at hand.
• The universe was in all our houses - just to varying degrees.
• It's about damn time I took care of it!
• Let's just skip over Winter this year and go straight to Spring. : )
• Amazing how one person can make me realize so much in such a short period of time.
• What are we? 5-years-old or something?
• How many times can one listen to the same song in a row without getting sick of it?
• Ology
• Not only did I get him to say it, I also got a free Starbucks drink in the process.
• It truly was Murphy's Law - DRT style.
• A truancy story at our age intrigues me.
• Mush?
• Yes, it's a nice thing to do. Yes, I'm lucky in that regard. However, it's kind of the anti-motivator.
Until later . . .
• "That 70's Show" yarn - LOVE IT!
• Maybe I was the right person for the task at hand.
• The universe was in all our houses - just to varying degrees.
• It's about damn time I took care of it!
• Let's just skip over Winter this year and go straight to Spring. : )
• Amazing how one person can make me realize so much in such a short period of time.
• What are we? 5-years-old or something?
• How many times can one listen to the same song in a row without getting sick of it?
• Ology
• Not only did I get him to say it, I also got a free Starbucks drink in the process.
• It truly was Murphy's Law - DRT style.
• A truancy story at our age intrigues me.
• Mush?
• Yes, it's a nice thing to do. Yes, I'm lucky in that regard. However, it's kind of the anti-motivator.
Until later . . .
Day Three
• Counting won't get me to where I need to be, but I still do it anyhow.
• I make no apologies for my thriftiness.
• I prepared a damn fantastic dinner if I do say so myself.
• I would be flying solo and I haven't done that for awhile.
• You can't please everyone all of the time.
• I was way too defensive.
• How long?
• Oh, so tempting!
• The first time I broke a bamboo dpn.
• Sometimes I just want to pick up the phone and . . .
• The apology that took me by surprise.
• What's next?
• They are still alive - for now.
• It finally showed up and seems to be picking up momentum.
Until later . . .
• I make no apologies for my thriftiness.
• I prepared a damn fantastic dinner if I do say so myself.
• I would be flying solo and I haven't done that for awhile.
• You can't please everyone all of the time.
• I was way too defensive.
• How long?
• Oh, so tempting!
• The first time I broke a bamboo dpn.
• Sometimes I just want to pick up the phone and . . .
• The apology that took me by surprise.
• What's next?
• They are still alive - for now.
• It finally showed up and seems to be picking up momentum.
Until later . . .
6.10.09
I Think It Was
The Official Sock Yarn Blankie Square Count for October 6, 2009:
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 171
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 561
So, yeah. . . I came into a few minis since my last post. What I think scares me more is that I've added all these minis into blankie in less than a week. At about 145-ish I took an updated picture since I had FINALLY evened blankie out. No more odd shapes (at least at that point-in-time).
This weekend I told KP, and a few others, that I want blankie to be buried with me given the amount of time I have spent working on it. I mean I'm Jewish, so if I have a traditional burial they will need a shroud, right!? Such a morbid topic to make light of. I kind of felt it was an inappropriate comment to make in such a joking manner. No doubt odd. Again, it purely has to do with the hours and hours that have gone in to making this.
On a lighter note, I found a video on YouTube of some girl requsting yarn for her "scrap yarn blanket." It was totally original. Since her blanket is a worsted weight blanket I have a bunch of yarn I could contribute. I sent a message to see if we could arrange some sort of swap so we'll see what happens. Regardless, I think I'll send her some yarn.
Last but not least - Now that I've gotten through all the minis for my blanket I am starting to work on my mom's blanket again. I'm behind on it, sort of. I know I have time, but I don't want to keep using that as an excuse not to work on it and then wake up one day to find I have hardly any time left to finish it.
On that note . . .
Until later . . .
Squares Needed: 736
Squares Knit and Stitched Together: 171
Squares Ready to be Added: 0
Remaining Squares Needed: LOTS! In real numbers 561
So, yeah. . . I came into a few minis since my last post. What I think scares me more is that I've added all these minis into blankie in less than a week. At about 145-ish I took an updated picture since I had FINALLY evened blankie out. No more odd shapes (at least at that point-in-time).
This weekend I told KP, and a few others, that I want blankie to be buried with me given the amount of time I have spent working on it. I mean I'm Jewish, so if I have a traditional burial they will need a shroud, right!? Such a morbid topic to make light of. I kind of felt it was an inappropriate comment to make in such a joking manner. No doubt odd. Again, it purely has to do with the hours and hours that have gone in to making this.
On a lighter note, I found a video on YouTube of some girl requsting yarn for her "scrap yarn blanket." It was totally original. Since her blanket is a worsted weight blanket I have a bunch of yarn I could contribute. I sent a message to see if we could arrange some sort of swap so we'll see what happens. Regardless, I think I'll send her some yarn.
Last but not least - Now that I've gotten through all the minis for my blanket I am starting to work on my mom's blanket again. I'm behind on it, sort of. I know I have time, but I don't want to keep using that as an excuse not to work on it and then wake up one day to find I have hardly any time left to finish it.
On that note . . .
Until later . . .
Day Two
Oh, this one is going to be a bunch of things that are all over the place....
This is a funny site that was brought to my attention via a e-mail from SWC last week. It's called passiveagressivenotes.com. This is a blog where people can share all the fan-tab-u-lous passive aggressive notes that they encounter during day-to-day life.
Of those note, I always find the most passionate ones to be associated with food. Have you ever noticed that? People really get attached to food. At least that is my observation. I guess I can relate. I am not innocent of throwing a fit over someone else eating something I was looking forward too having myself - and that was just in my home environment. I can only imagine how irritating it could be when someone you hardly know eats what is clearly marked as yours! These types of note take me back to my first job out of college when someone sent a note to the regional e-mail list (instead of the local office one) about their lunch which had been taken from the fridge. I can only imagine what that person felt like when someone replied back pointing out that they just should have sent the message locally. Oops!
.......................................................................................
I had someone else recently apologize to me for treating me badly. Ok, they didn't out-right apologize to me. Is was more of a recognition that the way they treated me the last time we saw each other wasn't right and they should have conveyed what was going on in a better way than they did. Yes, the details are vague - for good reason - it's between the two of us and not necessary to make my point. Honestly, I think I sat there in shock. If you had asked me six months ago if I ever thought I'd be having that conversation I would have flat out told you that it would be a cold day in hell before I thought that would happen.
As we were having the conversation it reminded me of the message I received about a month ago from my old friend apologizing for things that happened years and years ago. That message was on my mind as I had recently told Moral Compass about the message. "That was very nice," MC responded. (Which was a response I was surprised by as well.) I went on to say I wasn't sure how to respond and all the jazz as I went on about in my prior post. However, at the end of the day all I can think is. . . "You know, it was nice."
It was nice to hear someone who has truly hurt you sincerely recognize what they did and own their actions. Then I got the thinking why I don't expect this out of others. All I can come up with are two things: 1) Making amends is personal decision you can't force someone else to do and 2) I've made such peace with the fact that the one person who I feel truly owes me the greatest apology of all will be the one person I'll never get it from so why should I expect it of others. Ok, there is a third reason . . . If you carry around with you an expectation, you will be greatly disappointed - and that can be just as painful as whatever happened that made you feel you are owed an apology in the first place.
Something to think about . . .
.......................................................................................
My aunt's birthday and ex's birthday are one day apart. This worked out really good while the ex and I were together. I NEVER forgot her birthday. Last year, I was so intent on forgetting about the ex's birthday I forgot about my aunt's birthday. I didn't like myself for this. It wasn't only about the fact that I had forgotten my aunt's b-day. It was the fact that I had let my ex get in the way of remembering such an important date and that after all that, I still remembered his birthday.
This year was different. I remembered both birthdays. Only openly recognized one of them to the person directly of course. However, unlike last year I didn't feel bad about remembering. I'm guessing I won't forget about his birthday for awhile - if at all considering it's one day apart from my aunt's birthday.
.......................................................................................
It's been four days since the plants entered my home and they are still alive. Stay tuned for more updates.
.......................................................................................
I've said it before and I'll say it again - sometimes you're just damned if you do and damned if you don't. Especially when it comes to making a group of people happy. So, I think it's best to just do your best and realize that you can't please everyone all of the time.
.......................................................................................
Oktoberfest may have ended, but sock knitters all around are still celebrating Socktoberfest! Yes my friends, it's a celebration of hand-knitted socks! So break out your size 00,0, 1, 2, or 3 dpns and get going on your favorite sock pattern!
.......................................................................................
Last Friday it was announced the Chicago would not be hosting the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.
Honestly, I had mixed feeling about the idea of the games being held in Chi-town. I have to admit it would have been exciting and I surely would have gotten tickets even despite the fact that I prefer the winter games over the summer. It still would have been a great opportunity to see the games in person. Years and years ago, I was looking into tickets to see the winter games in Salt Lake City, UT. Let me tell you - it isn't cheap! However, that's not why I didn't go. In the end, I hope one day to get to the winter games. Maybe 2014 in Russia!?
Getting back to the matter of Chicago hosting the games. . .
There were those that were very disappointed upon hearing Chicago would not get the games. First and foremost, many just assumed the games were coming to Chicago - no questions asked. Yeah, talk about great disappointment!
Others, wanted to see the games come to the area because of the economic prosperity it would bring - at least for the next seven years. People have said to me they felt the eminent economic downturn after the games would be minimal/a small loss compared to what we would experience in the short-term. Some saw the gain in how they would benefit from it - guaranteed work in their industry, potential profit from adventures in real estate and/or more exposure for their creative endeavors.
Lastly, there are those who welcomed Friday's news. There are many who feel the money for this venture would be better spent on fixing the city's problems (you know, the small ones we have). They also felt that the economic downfall most cities experience post-games would not be good long-term.
Regardless, of where people stand, were you stood, the IOC spoke there peace and it's time to move on.
.......................................................................................
Cute in a cheesy kind of way. The music they choose for the video was interesting... It sound like it could be a version of "Hava Nagila."
Until later . . .
This is a funny site that was brought to my attention via a e-mail from SWC last week. It's called passiveagressivenotes.com. This is a blog where people can share all the fan-tab-u-lous passive aggressive notes that they encounter during day-to-day life.
Of those note, I always find the most passionate ones to be associated with food. Have you ever noticed that? People really get attached to food. At least that is my observation. I guess I can relate. I am not innocent of throwing a fit over someone else eating something I was looking forward too having myself - and that was just in my home environment. I can only imagine how irritating it could be when someone you hardly know eats what is clearly marked as yours! These types of note take me back to my first job out of college when someone sent a note to the regional e-mail list (instead of the local office one) about their lunch which had been taken from the fridge. I can only imagine what that person felt like when someone replied back pointing out that they just should have sent the message locally. Oops!
.......................................................................................
I had someone else recently apologize to me for treating me badly. Ok, they didn't out-right apologize to me. Is was more of a recognition that the way they treated me the last time we saw each other wasn't right and they should have conveyed what was going on in a better way than they did. Yes, the details are vague - for good reason - it's between the two of us and not necessary to make my point. Honestly, I think I sat there in shock. If you had asked me six months ago if I ever thought I'd be having that conversation I would have flat out told you that it would be a cold day in hell before I thought that would happen.
As we were having the conversation it reminded me of the message I received about a month ago from my old friend apologizing for things that happened years and years ago. That message was on my mind as I had recently told Moral Compass about the message. "That was very nice," MC responded. (Which was a response I was surprised by as well.) I went on to say I wasn't sure how to respond and all the jazz as I went on about in my prior post. However, at the end of the day all I can think is. . . "You know, it was nice."
It was nice to hear someone who has truly hurt you sincerely recognize what they did and own their actions. Then I got the thinking why I don't expect this out of others. All I can come up with are two things: 1) Making amends is personal decision you can't force someone else to do and 2) I've made such peace with the fact that the one person who I feel truly owes me the greatest apology of all will be the one person I'll never get it from so why should I expect it of others. Ok, there is a third reason . . . If you carry around with you an expectation, you will be greatly disappointed - and that can be just as painful as whatever happened that made you feel you are owed an apology in the first place.
Something to think about . . .
.......................................................................................
My aunt's birthday and ex's birthday are one day apart. This worked out really good while the ex and I were together. I NEVER forgot her birthday. Last year, I was so intent on forgetting about the ex's birthday I forgot about my aunt's birthday. I didn't like myself for this. It wasn't only about the fact that I had forgotten my aunt's b-day. It was the fact that I had let my ex get in the way of remembering such an important date and that after all that, I still remembered his birthday.
This year was different. I remembered both birthdays. Only openly recognized one of them to the person directly of course. However, unlike last year I didn't feel bad about remembering. I'm guessing I won't forget about his birthday for awhile - if at all considering it's one day apart from my aunt's birthday.
.......................................................................................
It's been four days since the plants entered my home and they are still alive. Stay tuned for more updates.
.......................................................................................
I've said it before and I'll say it again - sometimes you're just damned if you do and damned if you don't. Especially when it comes to making a group of people happy. So, I think it's best to just do your best and realize that you can't please everyone all of the time.
.......................................................................................
Oktoberfest may have ended, but sock knitters all around are still celebrating Socktoberfest! Yes my friends, it's a celebration of hand-knitted socks! So break out your size 00,0, 1, 2, or 3 dpns and get going on your favorite sock pattern!
.......................................................................................
Last Friday it was announced the Chicago would not be hosting the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.
Honestly, I had mixed feeling about the idea of the games being held in Chi-town. I have to admit it would have been exciting and I surely would have gotten tickets even despite the fact that I prefer the winter games over the summer. It still would have been a great opportunity to see the games in person. Years and years ago, I was looking into tickets to see the winter games in Salt Lake City, UT. Let me tell you - it isn't cheap! However, that's not why I didn't go. In the end, I hope one day to get to the winter games. Maybe 2014 in Russia!?
Getting back to the matter of Chicago hosting the games. . .
There were those that were very disappointed upon hearing Chicago would not get the games. First and foremost, many just assumed the games were coming to Chicago - no questions asked. Yeah, talk about great disappointment!
Others, wanted to see the games come to the area because of the economic prosperity it would bring - at least for the next seven years. People have said to me they felt the eminent economic downturn after the games would be minimal/a small loss compared to what we would experience in the short-term. Some saw the gain in how they would benefit from it - guaranteed work in their industry, potential profit from adventures in real estate and/or more exposure for their creative endeavors.
Lastly, there are those who welcomed Friday's news. There are many who feel the money for this venture would be better spent on fixing the city's problems (you know, the small ones we have). They also felt that the economic downfall most cities experience post-games would not be good long-term.
Regardless, of where people stand, were you stood, the IOC spoke there peace and it's time to move on.
.......................................................................................
Cute in a cheesy kind of way. The music they choose for the video was interesting... It sound like it could be a version of "Hava Nagila."
Until later . . .
4.10.09
A Plant Story
Back in 2002 my mom gave me her Feng Shui plant to take care of. She had just moved back to the area and was living with a friend. For whatever reason, she didn't feel comfortable having the plant in her friend's home so she gave it to me. Over the course of time I had the plant I would say I killed it however when mom finally got it back it wasn't exactly in a "Feng Shui" state of being. I had managed to damage said plant and wasn't sure there was much hope for it. Thankfully, mom was able to revive the plant.
Why do I bring this up? Well, I brought home not one . . . not two . . . but three plants this past week. (Yes, I'm just glutton for punishment.)
I'm not exactly sure what possessed me to do this. I've been questioning myself even since I first pulled the plants out of the respective box they were in. After some thought, I have decided the first motivating factor is that they were free. However, that doesn't mean I should have taken three with me - does it!? It's only been a couple days since I acquired said plants. The first day they were set aside in a safe local so I could take them home at a later date. When they finally did make it in to my home they sat for another day. That's about 48 hours without attention or watering. Momentarily they are sitting on little glass plates I found because I don't have proper saucers to absorb the extra water.
So now I have to care for these plant, but honestly I don't even know what kind of they are. All I know is that they are a magenta color. I believe that was my second motivating factor. Since this is the case I plan to take a picture of said plant and talk to someone who can give me a clue on 1) What type of plant it is and 2) How to take care of it.
All this leads me to what someone said to me after I went on and on about how I normally don't take plants into my home because I kill them. They said, "Wow! That's very optimistic of you." Optimistic is the key word in that remark. For a moment I didn't understand why they said that. After thinking about it for awhile I realized it was sorta optimistic of me. I guess somewhere deep inside I believe that despite my past inability to keep plants alive I'm willing to give it another try with the belief that this time around will be different. Does that mean optimism is my third motivating factor? Even more important, does this mean I truly am an internal optimist as I often joke, but don't show? Or, maybe I just felt the need to schlep three plants into my home knowing that in the near future I'd be pitching them. Hmmm. . . .
In the end I guess the only thing I know for sure is that I'm now going to count the days these things survive here. Personally, I don't give them more than a couple of weeks. I guess only time will tell.
Until later . . .
Why do I bring this up? Well, I brought home not one . . . not two . . . but three plants this past week. (Yes, I'm just glutton for punishment.)
I'm not exactly sure what possessed me to do this. I've been questioning myself even since I first pulled the plants out of the respective box they were in. After some thought, I have decided the first motivating factor is that they were free. However, that doesn't mean I should have taken three with me - does it!? It's only been a couple days since I acquired said plants. The first day they were set aside in a safe local so I could take them home at a later date. When they finally did make it in to my home they sat for another day. That's about 48 hours without attention or watering. Momentarily they are sitting on little glass plates I found because I don't have proper saucers to absorb the extra water.
So now I have to care for these plant, but honestly I don't even know what kind of they are. All I know is that they are a magenta color. I believe that was my second motivating factor. Since this is the case I plan to take a picture of said plant and talk to someone who can give me a clue on 1) What type of plant it is and 2) How to take care of it.
All this leads me to what someone said to me after I went on and on about how I normally don't take plants into my home because I kill them. They said, "Wow! That's very optimistic of you." Optimistic is the key word in that remark. For a moment I didn't understand why they said that. After thinking about it for awhile I realized it was sorta optimistic of me. I guess somewhere deep inside I believe that despite my past inability to keep plants alive I'm willing to give it another try with the belief that this time around will be different. Does that mean optimism is my third motivating factor? Even more important, does this mean I truly am an internal optimist as I often joke, but don't show? Or, maybe I just felt the need to schlep three plants into my home knowing that in the near future I'd be pitching them. Hmmm. . . .
In the end I guess the only thing I know for sure is that I'm now going to count the days these things survive here. Personally, I don't give them more than a couple of weeks. I guess only time will tell.
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.