Nelly Knits

HOT

2011-07-21T08:26:00.000-07:00

Soooo its suppose to get to 99 today with the heat index above that...yesterday my car temp read 101...this is ri-dam-diculous. I dont mind 75 but 101...really...can a preggo lady get a break lol. I've been staying in my house in the good ole AC and plan to remain here for a long long time.

So Tired

2011-06-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

I am soooo tired today. I feel huge and I know I still have 3 months to go. I know it will be okay. I'm overjoyed about being preggo so I accept my hugeness today with gratitude to the Lord. :-)

Soooooooo...Where I've been

2011-06-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever since I've posted on this blog. I've been super busy growing a baby. Yes that's right...I'm preggers. I still got 3 months left of baking, but my husband and I are excited. With that said...not much knitting going on, but so have plans for a ton of baby knits...and also going to try my hand at sewing some baby quilts and blankets.....we will see how that works out.

I hope everyone has been doing well and is having a good start to the summer. For me its stupid hot right now to me because of the pregnancy.

Hello Again

2010-12-23T17:48:00.000-08:00

yeah so I'm still alive and doing just fine. life has been heck a busy since the wedding and only a little knitting here and there has been going on but i wanted to Wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas!

Other side

2010-06-06T06:25:00.001-07:00

Here is the other side of the bag. I think it turned out pretty well.

Picture of bag

2010-06-06T06:23:00.001-07:00

Here is one side f the bag I made yesterday....I love the summery floral print, I have enough material left over to make a skirt!!!

Sooooo

2010-06-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

it's benn a long time since i blogged but not much has happened. Been busy with family, both biological and church. Today i attempted my first sewing project ever...well at least since i was a little kid. My grand mother and one of her sister's were both seamstresses and when i was a kid i used to sew handbags for my grandma...(she's the greatest!). Today i attemted a reversable purse via verypurpleperson.com. So far so good, I'm not finished with the bag yet, but i've been taking pictures of the project as i go and when i'm done i'll post some of them. hope everybody's been ok.

Not much knitting, I am working on my first garment, a tanktop....but that's coming along slowly...because i think i need to rip back :-( ugh.

Priceless

2010-03-01T07:43:00.000-08:00

Saturday

Dinner:Lobster with butter sauce made by Hubby

Wine: sweet, red

Time spent with the one you love: Priceless

I love my husband!!!!

Back

2010-02-17T07:47:00.001-08:00

It's been a long time since I've posted anything, i've been busy setting up house and running around for the holidays and things have finally calmed down. I just got back to knitting in the last week or so so not a lot to talk about there. Working on one scarf and one sock. Thanks for the wedding well wishes, its been great being married. haven't been up to much lately, currently going to an Evangelism class and also trying to decide if I want to sign up for the LSAT and go to law school. let me correct that, i know i want to go to law school, I just don;t want to take out the loans to go.

Hope everyone has been well and has a wonderful 2010!

Surviving the Wedding

2009-09-01T09:52:00.001-07:00

We survived an it was great! Everything went off without a hitch. I will post pics when I get some. Hope everyone has a great week!

2 days

2009-08-27T07:41:00.001-07:00

.....until the wedding and I need sock yarn and a bottle of wine........ My momma told me that this would be the most stressful week, the week before the wedding is drama filled.

My momma was admitted to the hospital Tuesday; She was released yesterday. It's a long story but she had to have a blood transfusion and she has to see a specialist next Thursday.

I'm trying hard not to stress, but that already got me going, so now it's time to calm down and try to enjoy this time.

Hope everyone has a great weekend...I know I will.

For My Hunny

2009-08-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

'You Are my Heaven' Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway

An angel whispered to me when I woke this morning
That I would find heaven by my side
And there were you angel, heaven in the morning
Playing in my arms and in my life

And I reached this decision, I love you my religion
That is in my soul and in my heart
No one could ever change my mind, oh, no
‘Cause I got you here right by my side

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
You are my love
Make me sing la di da

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take you away
(Won’t let them take you away)

If angels whispered to you early every morning
It’s really something wonderful and rare
I get up in the morning feeling that forever
I have all your love and all your care

If someone tries to tells that I do not love you
Tell them they must be out of their mind
I ain’t gonna let them change my mind, oh, no
‘Cause I got you here right by my side

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
You are my love
Make me sing la di da

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take you away
(Won’t let them take you away)

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
You are my love
Make me sing la di da

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take you away
(Won’t let them take)

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
You are my love
Make me sing la di da

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
Darling, I, oh
I won’t let them take you away
I won’t let them take you

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
You are my love (You are my love)
Make me sing la di da

You are my love (You are my love)
You are my heaven
Oh...oh...oh

Love You Babe!!! 5 Days to go!
(Yes I've turned into a total sap for the week before my wedding...but its ok)

So Out Of The Loop

2009-08-20T07:45:00.001-07:00

So I'm getting hitched in less than two weeks and I have been neglecting my blog because I've been sooo very very busy.

I've got my dress, my shoes, his ring, and his shoes. We are still waiting on his suit and shirt to come in, he had both custom made.

There has been some drama but mainly everyone has managed to stay on their best behavior. There are lots of stories that I have to tell and will be happy to recount them for you a after the wedding is done.

Overall I'm in a good mood, I'm happy to be marrying the man I love more than anything else!

I will get back to regular posting once I become a Mrs. and get back to a normal schedule.

I hope everyone is doing well!

Knitting but no pictures

2009-06-02T11:53:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted any pictures lately so next post I will post picks of the socks I finished for my Hunny and the market bag I finished. I started knitting on a sock on Saturday. I'm working on the waterfall rib sock from the sensational knitted socks book. They are fast and I'm almost done with the leg which is quick for me. I'm using bernat sox yarn in wooded denim colorway. It's not the best sock yarn but it was cheap and I'm paying for a wedding so expensive sock yarn will have to wait. It's not horrible but it's acrylic and Im use to knitting socks in superwash woo blend,which I prefer. But right now Im just greatful to be able to buy any yarn and to have something to keep my stress level down. The closer this wedding gets I totally understand why people elope.......TOTALLY UNDERSTAND!!! But it's all good, I won't let it get to me, and when It does I just go some where and knit.

It's My Birthday

2009-05-29T10:29:00.001-07:00

First and foremost I want to give all honor, praise and thanks to God for allowing me another year on earth. Without his mercy, grace and unceasing love I would be nothing. I am so excited and feel so loved on my birthday. I have been blessed to be surrounded by wonderful family and friends and am greatful for all of them being in my life. Thankyou Jesus for all you've done for me and continue to do. I hope everyone has a happy and blessed Friday.

Wedding update

2009-05-19T08:19:00.001-07:00

A few posts back I put up two pics of wedung shoes that I was looking at, while I was at the apple store gettig my computer fixed I decided to look around at some other stores. One of the shoe places had the shoes I wanted and the bonus is that they were on sale. I looooooooooove them!

So so far we have these things done for the wedding: Dress, My shoes,Cememony and reception site,Invitations bought, Invitation list, Both of our rings and Flowers. Things that still need to be done: His suit (but we already know where he is getting it from and the cost), His shoes, Decision on which wedding cake and My vei.l So so far so good, still trying to keep it simple, and not be stressed. Hope everyone is having a good Tuesday!

Questions about Etsy

2009-04-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking up some designs for some summer accessories and I'm still in the planning stages but I've got some rough ideas and I'm thinking of opening an Etsy store. I look on Etsy constantly, but have yet to buy anything off the site, so let me know if you've had any experiences with Etsy (good or bad) and what you're take on how the site functions is. Your opinions are much appreciated.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful week.

Wedding Dress

2009-04-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

I'm am sooo excited people, I got my wedding dress last week and it is absolutely lovely. I am looking for veils and because my dress is simple, I think I want a mantilla veil. If you haven't seen one of these, just do a quick google search. They are beautiful lace edged veils that are exquisite. It will add just enough decoration and sparkle to my dress.

On the knitting front, I am still working on the second alpaca sox, I thought it would be to hot to finish it soon...but I forgot that I live in Michigan where it snows in April at least once every year. The first sock came out beautiful and I keep getting complements on it, I'm on the foot of the second sock so it should be done soon. I'm contemplating starting a February Lady Sweater..I've never done a sweater before but this seems to be an easy one (check out the designers blog flintknits )

Also, I'm finally getting my degree, Grad School is officially over. I finished my requirements last November but due to some shuffling of paper, I wasn't able to register to graduate until this semester. I am soooo glad to be done, but apparently I'm a perpetual student because I've already started looking at Ph.D programs. The University of Michigan Ann Arbor has a joint program in Political Science and Public Policy that is looking pretty good....we will see. For now I'm taking a break and focusing on getting married and chillin' out for the summer.

Sheep Art

2009-03-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

This is great!

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Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday!

2009-03-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

I am soooo glad today is Friday, I just found out that my local Micheal's now carries Lion Brand Sock-Ease and I am soooo excited because now I can make a socks for under $8. Sock yarn that makes 2 socks for under $8 is crazytalk. I will be promptly leaving work and headed straight there so I can cast on some spring socks for myself.

On the Wedding front, lots to do, weddings are a lot of work and can be a lot of headache if you let them. I refuse to let my wedding be a headache. My hunny would rather just go to the justice of the peace and get it over already and spend the money on something else and I totally agree, but I am an only child and want my family to be there. So to compromise we are keeping it small, the ceremony will be open to everyone, but the reception will be family and really close friends only.

I hope everyone has a great weekend wherever you maybe!

Wedding Shoes

2009-03-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

So far I've come across two shoes online that are real contenders for my big day:
#1

And

#2

I like them both a lot, but I think I'm leaning more towards the first pair....we will see. I love high heels and sparkly ones make it that much better. I like classic and simple. I've already found my dress and I think it will be perfect, I won't post a pic of the dress until the wedding day...it's a surprise. The big day is August 29 so lots of planning to do.

Alpaca Sox

2009-03-04T11:51:00.000-08:00

My newest project are alpaca socks for my fiancée. I've made him one pair of socks before, but they aren't the same size, opsy! I made them when I first started knitting socks and they are not my best work. But I bought the book Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch and I think I am on the right path now. I am loving knitting with the Classic Elite Alpaca Sox yarn, I thought at first it would be to fluffy, but it knits up fine. My Hunny has size 13 wide feet, so these socks might take a minute to make. I will post a review on the book in another post, but so far I like it slot.
In other news I've been trying to get the wedding in order. We want it to be a simple ceremony and not alot of hullabullu. The focus for us is on the marriage and not the wedding day so we are not trying to go broke over it at all.
I hope everything is going well for you where ever you might be!

It's so nice....

2009-01-23T06:48:00.000-08:00

...to be at a place where you know you are truely loved and that no matter what comes your way, everything is alright. I had an experience last night that usually would have sent me into a worry fit, but I brushed it off like it was no big deal....because it is no big deal. Once you accept the worse that can happen, moving on and doing something to change the outcome is a lot easier and a lot less stressful. Also having someone on your team, in your corner helps to make everything that much easier. I'm feeling fine and I'm going to go buy yarn today which make everything better. Thank you Jesus for another day.

hope everyone has a great friday!

Inauguration Day 2009

2009-01-20T07:22:00.000-08:00

This is the day we have been waiting for, take stock and be hopeful for a new day and a new way!
President and First Lady Obama!

Quick Post

2009-01-11T17:03:00.000-08:00

so, I've finished 1 book and am on to book number two already. I read "The Knitting Circle'"by Ann Hood, I'll give a more indepth review of this book later, it was good, but if your depressed you might want to wait to read it is all I got to say for now.

On the worrying front I've been reading "How to Stop Worrying and Start Living" by Dale Carnegie. I'm only on chapter 2 but so far so good, this is part of my trying to now worry (see the last post). i'm trying to be pro-active about accomplishing my goals and not lazy about anything in 2009.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

A New Year: A New Beginning

2009-01-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Everybody,

First I'd like to say thank you all for the congrats on the engagement.

Second, I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Third, 2009 is the time for a new beginning, I thank God that he has allowed me to be able to see 2009 and I plan on spending it doing the things which I know are right, these things include, but are not limited to:

a. Not Worrying...there is no point in worrying about things that I can not change, and really no point in worrying about the things I can change...BECAUSE I CAN CHANGE THEM!
1. this is a hard one for me, i am a champion worrier...even though I know God is in control, I wanna help...which defeats the whole purpose..believe me, i know. (Jesus take the wheel on this one)
2. I have a wedding to plan, and while my fiance would be happy just going to the court house and eloping, the one thing i promised my momma in life is that i wouldn't elope(i'm an only child), but you better believe We are NOT going into debt over this thing...I'm seriously thinking about just getting married and having an open house/ b-b-q type thing at the house.

b. Not being so lazy. This is the year to get my tail in gear and not sleep my life away. You only get on life, time to take advantage of it for all that it is worth

c. Volunteering more time...I have the time to give....but I haven't (see b)

d. Getting in shape and getting my health right. I haven't been to a gym since 2004 and i don't exercise at home. I need to get in shape so I can be healthy. I also need to stop eating fast food crap and eat right all the time..not just some of the time.

e. Being better about the things I have to to vs. the things I want to do. I am somewhat of a dreamer. Staying firmly planted in reality is my fiance's department. But I know I need to do better when it comes to the things that just have to get done. (Admitting you have a problem is the first step) :-)

and so, in stead of making resolutions, that I will fail at, I try to make realistic goals that I can achieve and that will help me be better and allow me to be able to help anybody else who needs helping along the way.

Hope everyone had a good break (if you had one) and that you make the most of everyday!

Update on # 5 and # 6 ....

2008-12-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

from the previous post. So, as the title explains I have an update.

I'M ENGAGED!!!!!!!!

My hunny and I have been talking about getting married for the past couple of months and going to look at rings. While I thought we would get hitched sooner or later I didn't expect him to have already bought a ring (which I adore and he had custom made). He proposed on thursday night, he made a candle light dinner and as we ate he asked if i wanted my Christmas gift, me being the impatient person that I am said yes, and then he got down on one knee and popped the question......and then I screamed YES!!!

We've been together for about 3 years and I'm so happy that i will get to share the rest of my life with a wonderful man of God who just wants to spread Jesus and strive to do what is right. I love him very very much!

(I tired to post a pic of the ring, but blogger was acting up and wouldn't let me.)

Real Quick

2008-12-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

1. I'm still working on that staghorn cable scarf
2. i cast on for a pair of mittens in Patons classic wool for my mom for christmas and i'm half way done with the first mitten.
3. my great uncle passed on saturday, and the homegoing is this saturday. He was a great guy and it sucks for my family....i love the holiday's but i'm tired of going to funerals...which reminds me my cousins grandmother passed this week too....that makes 4 since October
4. all i wanna do is sit at home and knit....i gotta find a way to make that happen.
5. my hunny and I are starting 'marriage' talks......stay tunned.
6. my hunny already bought my christmas gift, and has been taunting me about it since last week, but i have will power and i can hold on to find out what it is until at least Christmas Eve......at least i think i can hold on untill at least Christmas Eve
7. I love the Charlie Brown Vince Guaraldi Trio Christmas CD, it is the best holiday CD ever!
8. I need to find a recipe for cookies I wanna make for Christmas this year
9. Couldn't get into the book i was reading ( An eater's manifesto) it just didn't grab me at all, so i returned it to the library and moved on to the next book, "The Knitting Circle"
10. Hope everyone has a fantastic day!

No Auto Loans= Disaster

2008-12-12T05:35:00.000-08:00

Really? no loans for the auto companies but they loaned money to all the financial institutions that are not doing with the money they got what they said they would.......really?

I need new people in charge of our government, because apparently they, and all the people who think that 'we should just let the auto companies fail' have NO FREAKIN" CLUE!!!!!!!

If the auto companies...and their respective auto part suppliers fail the amount of people who will be without jobs is going to be staggering. This will lead to the amount of people being able to pay their debt lower and lead to more foreclosures guaranteed.

This is ridiculous, if the financial institutions would have done with their bailouts what they should have, which is loosen up the lending and credit markets, then people would have been able to lease and buy cars and that would have helped some. Yes, they jacked it up, but I don't understand why people are so quick to jump down their throats about it and not about the financial bailouts.

Well, for those that thought that the auto loans would have been a bad deal, congratulations, you got your wish, now watch a lot of working class peoples lives fall apart.

Staghorn Cable Scarf

2008-12-05T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here are the pictures of the scarf I've been working on, it's a simple staghorn cable with a seed stitch border. It's goning to be for my grandfather for Christmas...I think the cable is manly enough for him :-)

Hope all is well wherever you maybe!

A New Day

2008-12-01T09:56:00.000-08:00

So, how was your thanksgiving?

Despite that fact that my step-father's homegoing was the wednesday before thanksgiving, Mines was good. I have lots to be thankful for, I have been blessed in sooooo many ways and I give God all the glory for he is sooooo worthy!

I have been still working on the same scarf for a week plus now, and still don't have a picture of it, but i really will get it up.

I finished the book "Three Cups of Tea", it was very good and very informative. It did take a while to get through the first couple of chapters, because I am not into mountain climbing, but once the story unfolded about building the schools for those who are without, I was immediately hooked. I learned alot and I am moved by the work that is being done by Greg Mortenson and his organization. If you get a chance, I highly recommend reading it.

Have a happy Monday!

Passing of my Step-Father

2008-11-25T07:07:00.000-08:00

On saturday morning my step-father passed after a long battle with cancer. Him and my mother had only been married for a little over two years and I feel really bad for my momma. The funeral is wednesday and so we've been running around getting everything in order. I'm knitting a scarf ...but thats about it. I'll try and post some pictures of it next time I post.

Ok..so here we go

2008-11-11T10:44:00.001-08:00

I've just been able to knit a little because.....my paper is finished. My master's essay is finnnnnnalllly done. (Thank You Jesus!!!!) I just have to print and bind 3 copies and drop them off with my professor to sign and its over. It's been a long journey and I'm glad that I can say that with my friends and family's constant pressuring, I've finished it. Most thanks goes to my Hunny who kept telling me that he knew that i could do it!. He is the bestest ever!

I started knitting a plain sock because that's all i could concentrate long enough to knit whilst in the middle of re-write after re-write of my essay. I'm using the left over yarn from the socks that I knit my boyfriend earlier in the year.

I also finished my jaywalkers. they are just lovely....a little loud in color, but i like them anyway. who doesn't need a pair of bright socks to brighten up your day ever know and then.

I started a coffee mug cozy for my work coffee cup since at work a lot of us use the company cups we were given and they all look exactly the same. I saw a pattern for one on ravelry but the bottom of my cup is too big for the cozy to wrap under the bottom of the cup, so i just took the same stitch pattern out of a stitch pattern book I own and am making one that just wraps around the outside edge of the cup. i am using left over malabrigo from a hat I made my aunt earlier in the year.

finally i though i'd leave you with a picture of the shrimp pasta that my hunny made for dinner last week, it was absolutely incredible. He is the best cook i have ever meet hands down and he cooks all the time...lucky me ;-)

I also managed to finish reading the last harry potter book, it was pretty good. I started reading another book called "Three Cups of Tea; one man's mission to promote peace one school at a time", i'm only on page 20 but it's not to bad. Nesx i want to read "The secret life of bees" but my local library was checked out so i have to wait a few weeks for it.

So life is good here. hope your day is going well.

YES WE DID!

2008-11-05T20:26:00.000-08:00

VOTE!!!!!!

2008-11-03T15:58:00.000-08:00

People please get out and vote tomorrow if you already haven't. Voting is your opportunity to voice your opinion. Yes your vote counts. Its is sooooo time for a change!

OBAMA! OBAMA! OBAMA!

No Time

2008-10-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

..to post. should be at work already.
finished jaywalkers, they are lovely.
started a pair of plain socks, nothing special.
haven't finished trellis sweater...will try to work on it this week.
have to finish paper today and send re-works to professor.
It's colder than all heck in MI today...really not feeling the cold weather yet.
have a great day... and remember that every day is a blessing!

Happy Blogoversary to me!

2008-10-16T15:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Blogoversary to Me! Happy Blogoversary to Me! Happy Blogoversary to Me-e, Happy Blogoversary to Me!

Wow I don't believe that it's been 1 year since I started blogging. I've started other blogs and let them go, but I've been pretty consistent with posting regularly with this one, so congrats to me! As far as knitting go I'm done with my second jaywalker and just need to kitchener the toe closed. This means I can cast on for another pair of socks...yeah. I'm gonna use the left over sock yarn from making my hunny's socks and make a short pair of plain socks for me. I like hand knit socks alot but yarn is expensive so stash hunting for these it shall be. I have also managed to almost finish the back of the trellis baby sweater that I started way back in May. All that is left to finish is the collar shaping and the back is done. When I showed it to my grandmother and my mother both of them said that they wanted a cardigan just like it in their size. I told them if they bought the yarn I'd make it for them....so we will see what comes of that.

I really don't have time to blog, I've been seriously trying to finish my Master's essay. I have 31 pages written and have already got it back from my professor with the first round of edits. I've corrected all the grammar errors and added my references page and now have to add a few pieces of information that my professor thinks will be useful. I have to have the final paper turned in by Nov 28 in order for me to graduate in December, so I will be working on the additional info tonight and throughout the weekend so i can turn another copy into my professor by Monday.

Besides that everything is going well, hope all is well with you.

Monday

2008-10-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes for my step dad, his surgury went just fine, my g-pa also had surgury and he is doing fine. My mom lost her god-mom yesterday, and while it was sort of expected (she was waiting on a heart)...death never is really goes over well....just one of those things in life.

I've decided that i need a new beret for the fall, since it's already freakin' cold here in MI, so I think a brown beret will help welcome fall on back. I'm still working on the jaywalkers, i've got a long foot and so it's taking a while.

I also finished reading book 5 in the harry potter books and have started book 6, i'm already on page 72.

I need to find either a new job that pays more or a part time gig.....but then again who doesn't in the rough economic times.

hope everyone has a good monday!

Mini Update

2008-09-29T06:05:00.000-07:00

Things going on:
1. My step dad is having surgery today...hopefully all goes well
2. I'm on the foot part of the jaywalker sock, if my foot wasn't so long I'd be done by now.
3. I'm on page 388 of the harry potter book
4. I've got a design for a sock I'm working up, gonna try and do a swatch of the pattern this week.
5. Got revival at Church this week, We have a dynamic speaker (and I don't say that about people lightly) so if your in the Detroit area and you wanna hear some GREAT WORD you should come by. Service starts at 7pm from Monday to Wednesday at Conant Gardens Church of Christ.

Reading Lately

2008-09-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

So I haven't managed to knit much, still working on that second jaywalker sock, but I have managed to read some.

I just finished 'The Kite Runner' this week and overall it was a pretty good book. I did learn a lot about Afghanistan that I did not know before reading the book and so for that educational part alone it was worth the read. I don't think I will go on to read 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' unless someone really convinces me that it is worth he read.

currently I am reading this:

I'm only on page 75 but so far so good. I've read the previous books and I know I'm behind the curve, but it's fun light reading that doesn't require a whole lot of extra thought.

Since we are officially into fall, I want to start knitting my first sweater, but I'm not quite sure which sweater pattern i want to knit. I'm thinking something a little on the chunky side because i love big warm sweaters and chunky knits go fast. I've seen a couple of Twinkle patterns that I love and so I might have to look into buying one of her books.

Nothing much has been going on around here, work as usual. I'm trying to get together the items I will make for Christmas...I need to start now in order for them to all get completed by Christmas.

My babe is so sweet, he went out into his garden yesterday and picked me a beautiful rose

it smells soooooo good and from far away it looks kinda fake, but it's the real deal. I love my babe, he's the best!

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Back to the Knit

2008-09-05T06:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some updated pictures of the projects that I've been working on. First is my finished jaywalker...yea me, one down, one to go. I've already cast on for number two and am into the pattern part of the sock, so hopefully this should go faster than the first one. The first one fits just fine, although i did originally start with the smallest size and then realized that it was going to be too small so ripped it and re cast on for the next biggest size, which fits fine.

I was working on the second sock on the holiday and my great uncle (who has only one foot because he had to have the other one amputated) had jokes about me only having one sock done. He said he though the sock was for him since he only has one foot and i only have one sock finished. So, for Christmas my plan is to make him a couple of single socks in different colors since he had jokes.

For my birthday i received a ball winder from my Aunt and Mom. I love my ball winder. It is such a relaxing activity to wind yarn. While i still wanna buy a swift, for now the edge of my ironing board works just as well. I really didn't realize how therapeutic it is to wind yarn until I had my own ball winder....it's such a beautiful thing

A couple posts back I said i caught the crocheting bug, well here is where my progress stopped. It's suppose to be a star baby blanket, but the baby that it was meant for is already here....sooooo she'll get it in a couple weeks. Crocheting tends to go a wee bit faster than knitting, but I'm not as good at crocheting as knitting.

hope everyone has a great weekend....i think i'm gonna buy some yarn or some books this weekend...we will see.

Sad Day

2008-09-04T06:01:00.000-07:00

Today the Mayor of the City of Detroit is suppose to accept a plea deal. While I am not a "supporter" of the Mayor, I do feel that the suburbs and the media have been out to get him for a while. I realize that he did perjure himself and that certain actions must be taken, the circus that has surrounds these issues is totally due to the media, both written and television. None of the big business or suburban officials wanted a Kwame running the City anyway and now they have exactly what they wanted. Yea he was cocky and arrogant, and broke laws but all I'm worried about is how the City will recover from this. His fate is sealed, he made his decisions and now he is dealing with the consequences.

All in all with Ken Cockrel Jr.. being made mayor , it leaves Monica Conyers as President of the City Council....and that leaves us right back at square one with a Mayor and City Council President who don't get along....(if you don't know she called him Shrek).

Everything that I hear about Detroit in the media is negative unless it is an event sponsored by a rich white dude. So unless it's the grand prix relatively little gets out in the local media, much less the national media that is positive about Detroit. While my City is not perfect, what major City is? There are plenty of positive things happening within Detroit that never receive any media attention and that never will because those aren't the headlines that grab peoples attention. Positive things have been going on in the City of Detroit for years. I have lived in the City all my life and I've never been attacked or robbed on the street, my car has never been stolen, I've never been shot or stabbed, but these are the images that prevail in the media. There are people in the burbs who have never been to the City and won't allow their children to visit the City because of the twisted perception that they have.

I have seen on comments on the free press and on the detroit news online that the citizens of Detroit deserve what they get when it comes to Mayor, But if that is the case then the United States deserved what it got when it elected Bush...and i don't think that anybody feels that sentiment is true, so why for the City of Detroit. A lot of it has to do with the racism that is prevalent in our area. Because the City is predominately Black and the suburbs predominately White there are major tensions because even our elected officials can't even pretend to get along (sidenote: which is the reason our area still doesn't have any form of mass transit yet every other major metropolitan area does), and if our elected officials can't get along, our citizenry can't get along.

What most of those in the suburbs fail to realize is the if the City of Detroit fails, the region fails.

I personally am tired of the whole situation, tired of the media and tired of people who are not supporters of the City of Detroit constantly talking about the City of Detroit. Kwame is not the first politician to break laws, and he will not be the last, we have plenty of them all over the nation, from local elected officials to national elected officials.

Crocheting Bug

2008-08-29T07:17:00.001-07:00

So, I decided that I wanted to work on my crocheting skills ( which are close to non-existent). I cast on for the baby start blanket and after reading a few blogs and searching ravelry I think I've finally caught on. I will add pictures as soon as I get a chance, they are currently on my phone. The blanket will not be done before my friends baby gets here, but I am just taking it as a practice baby blanket and if it turns out nice enough then I will give it away. We will see what happens. As for the jaywalker socks, i am finishing the first one today hopefully, I'm at the toes decreases and so it should go very fast. I'm ready to cast on for the 2nd one so i can wear the pair. Besides that nothing much is happening, work as usual.
hope everyone has a great holiday weekend!

quick update

2008-08-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

I don't have much progress on the knitting front, I got up this morning and went for a bike ride with my hunny which was very nice. I have to now finish my paper. I only have about 2 pages left and my rough draft of my final paper for my master's.......so off to work I go. have a great weekend everyone!

Where I Knit

2008-08-16T10:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a gorgeous day in Detroit. I've decided to start doing an installment of posts called: Where I Knit. I will take pictures of the places that I sit and knit at. Detroit has some beautiful buildings and I spend a good deal of time in them. I spent time knitting yesterday on the upper concourse in the Guardian Building in Detroit. I forgot to take outside pictures, but the architecture is stunning. Here is a link to the building website. I took some pics of the inside of the building. It's a beautiful building and it also has a yarn store inside (City Knits)....Gotta love a building in downtown with a yarn store inside! (Also i took these pics with my iphone....i love my iphone!)

A little history on the Guardian Building
The forty story skyscraper was completed in March 1927 and was originally the Union Trust Companies flagship headquarters. Smith Hinchman and Grylls architectural firm designed it with head designer Wirt C. Rowland. Forty artisans worked on the intricate murals, mosaic and stained glass, tile work and marble in the lobby. If you get a chance to visit Detroit, I highly recommend seeing it if you can.

and i knit on my jaywalker sock, yeah it's been a while working on these. I had to rip the first on after I turned the heel because it was to tight to get my foot into. I went back and cast on for the next size up and now it's fine, a snug fit, but fine.

My best friend is having a baby girl due in the next couple of weeks, I guess i should get to work on that baby blanket before she gets here. LOL one of these days I'm going to actually get something completed way in advance of someones due date.

I've got a wedding to go to today and today is looking lovely just like yesterday. I hope everyone is taking advantage of these beautiful weekends. Beautiful buildings, beautiful yarn beautiful weekends...what more could a girl ask for.

Drinkin' the Kool-aid

2008-08-04T09:37:00.001-07:00

so I haven't been blogging or knitting much because I have been drinking the Apple kool-aid. My hunny got me one of the 3g iPhone and I am straight lovin' this thing. I bought a macbook pro a few ears ago and I have an iPod and while I love them i adore the iPhone. I haven't had any problems with a the only thing negative I can say is that the battery life is short due to the amount of stuff I use it for. I have been so busy using and playing with it that I haven't done much of anything else, which in some respects is sad. But I love my new phone and I don't care!

Nothing much...

2008-07-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

going on knitting wise, working on finishing a paper I have to write. Still working on the baby trellis sweater and the market bag. I will post some more pics of the works in progress this week. hope everyone is having a great summer!

Esperanza Spalding

2008-06-13T10:56:00.001-07:00

...I'm diggin her music, just ordered her cd from best buy online (since neither my local best buy or the local homegrown music store carried it)

Knitting, Reading and Movies

2008-06-12T11:11:00.000-07:00

Knitting:
I started the baby coat Trellis, so far so good. I'm still working on the first piece, which is the back, but I'm liking how it's turning out. I'm doing it in an acrylic yarn because I just wanted to see if I could do a sweater of any size first before i invest a lot of money and time in knitting one.

Reading:
I finished Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire(book4) and need to get Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix ( book 5) from the library today. I also want to read The Kite Runner, but my local library didn't have a copy, so I will probably buy it tomorrow....if i don't spend my book money on new yarn.

Movie Viewing:
Last night I went and saw Sex and the City and it was goood!. The clothing is fantastic and so are the shoes. The story line got a little boring in the middle, but over all well work the money spent. Now I want to buy the book that goes through the movie and shows who the designers were for each outfit.

GO RED WINGS!

2008-06-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

So downtown Detroit is crazy today because it is the parade for the Red Wings. The streets are all block off and their are people everywhere. I can hear the crowd screaming for the players from my seat at work. I love my city when it is like this. People everywhere, having a good time. Even though the traffic is way too hectic for my liking, I'm glad that people showed up to support the team and the City of Detroit.

Nelly is saying...

2008-06-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

"YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN! YES WE CAN!"

Been a while...

2008-06-03T10:56:00.000-07:00

since I posted, things have been busy. Last week was my birthday (YEAH BIRTHDAY!). My hunny was a dear and got me cupcakes, bought me dinner at Olga'a and I got a bike. I got a Trek WSD 4300 and I'm soooo excited. I love my bike!!

My hunny bought a bike before last summer and he has been doing really well trying to lose some weight and get in shape. I got one because I need to get in shape and riding with my hunny is fun. I went out to breakfast on Sat with my family for my bday also and that was great.

Haven't been knitting a while lot, got a master's essay to finish.

Market Bag

2008-05-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

Since everyone is trying to be eco-friendly these days, I decided to do my part by making a Market Bag so I can stop using those plastic bags at the grocery store. Here is the start of it.

When I don't do what I'm told to do......

2008-05-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

...things get fucked up every time. My hunny is an amazing man and he tried to give me the best direction on the things that i should do. When i don't listen to him and do the things that i should i always end up fucking my self over and usually someone else in the process. Today i have don just that again. And while I'm always really sorry when these types of things happen, especially when I've caused it myself, I continue to not do the things i should. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results..... and i tend to do this alot.....maybe i need to seek professional help. i wish i could just start all over again from like age 18...that would be great....but alas you don't get second chances with time....and so i have to make the best out of the situations that I've created.

Jaywalker Progess

2008-05-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

a shot of the progress on the jaywalker sock is all I have to offer

Jaywalking

2008-04-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Back to knitting content:
I cast on for Grumperina's pattern the Jaywalkers socks in Lorna's Laces in the Rainbow colorway. I needed something small, simple and fast and this pattern is it. That's all for today.

No Knitting For Me

2008-04-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of getting my life together so there is no knitting for me until everything is back on track. I use knitting to distract myself from the things that I really need to do, so until I finish those things that are paramount to my future, no knitting for me. This is not an easy feet, I adore knitting and it is part of my stress relief ritual too, but there are other more important things going on right now...prioritizing is key in life!

Right now the first thing I'm focused on is spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm aiming for heaven and sitting on my bum and not doing anything to further the kingdom besides going to church service on Sunday and bible study on Wednesday ain't gettin' it. God is sooooo good and his Word is true and right.

The second thing is focusing my financial future.

Take A Deep Breath...

2008-04-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

...and figure your Sh*t out. If things are not going the way you have planned, and you seem to have missed what and where things got off track or went wrong. Take a deep breath and figure your sh*t out. I got all panicky and nervous today over somethings that just didn't require it. I am an emotional type person and so I tend to cry when I get upset, and while crying sometimes makes you feel better, there is a point where you have to pick yourself up and get on with the get on. If you have caused your own current situation there comes a time when you need to sit down and assess what your next steps need to be. Do not get mad if your friend/boyfriend/hubby tries to tell you how to solve your situation, they are doing so because they love you and want the best for you. Don't not turn a deaf ear to them, HEED THEIR WARNINGS! they just might be right about what they are telling you.

Sit down and make a game plan, ask for help if you need it and then go to work implementing that plan.....the IMPLEMENTATION part is key. This will require attention to detail, fortitude, stick-to-it-iveness and patience (of which I am sorely lacking, but working on). Depending on the situation sometimes and immediate solution is not available, but if you stick to the plan you will accomplish your objective.

Above all if you are a Christian ....trust GOD! if you are doing for him what needs to be done, and continue to follow in Jesus' path you will get through it. The Bible only promises two things to Christians 1) trouble and 2)eternal life for those who submit, obey and follow. Sometimes that trouble is brought about by others (if you let them) and sometimes it is brought about by yourself, either way following Jesus' commands is all that's really important in this lifetime anyway.

Weekend Crochet and an FO

2008-04-14T07:57:00.001-07:00

I got it, I finally got it.....On SaturdayI figured out how to crochet granny squares thanks to a lot of searches online and the book Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker. I've had the book for more than a year now, my hunny bought it for my originally because I thought crocheting would be easy to learn. Boy was I wrong, it just didn't work for me at all, so I started knitting and I was off and running.

So I've been crocheting like two squares a day, I plan on making a purse for my G-Ma. I'm not saying I'm the best crocheter out there by far, I'm just glad that it finally made sense to me.

I also finished my socks for me Yea! and wore them on Saturday, they took a little getting use to in the heel, but they are fine now and I love them.

I also managed my way to the library and started reading Wicked. So far it's ok, nothing spectacular..actually it really kinda' twisted, but I'm only 50 pages in, so I'll see what i really think about it once i get further into it.

Yummy Yarn

2008-04-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

I picked up some Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Yarn in the Rainbow colorway from the Knotted Needle and I'm so excited. I'm trying to decide between which pattern I want to make with the pretty pretty yarn. I'm looking at either making the Firestarters or the Jaywalkers, I haven't decided. Maybe I'll make up a pattern of my own, we will see what happens. First I have got to finish the socks I'm currently working on. I'm on the heel of the second sock, so it should be done soon.

Pretty Yarn!

Dishcloth #2

2008-04-02T12:57:00.001-07:00

..is finished. I made it with some Lily sugar n' cream in natural.

they go so fast that i started a mini 3rd one just so i could finish up the last bits of cotton in both eletric blue and natural i had, same pattern as the one above. the natural and blue behind the one that is cast on are the first two laying behind it.

Another FO

2008-04-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

...but it's not the other sock. Its a dishcloth for my dad for his birthday, which was the 30th. I'm actually making him two, one is finished and the other is 50% done, he will receive them this weekend. For the blue dishcloth I used the Diagonal knit discloth pattern posted on ravelry.

below is a picture of the second one that i started, I used the Waffle knit dishcloth pattern here, that i also found via ravelry. I like dishcloths because they are quick and provide instant gratification. I plan on grabbing some more cotton and start cranking these out in mass, so when Christmas comes around everybody will get at least two dishcloths.

I'm still working on sock number two...running out of steam a bit...maybe new sock yarn will give me some momentum.

...On to sock two

2008-03-28T07:14:00.001-07:00

One sock down, one sock to go

The only thing I've been reading lately is the April 2008 issue of Elle magazine and looking at the new Patternworks book that just came in the mail yesterday. There are a few sweaters that I want to make from that book.

I started on the second sock already and am itching to buy some new sock yarn. I've been eyeing the socks that rock website for a while now, and i just might have to go ahead and grab some. I still have almost a whole ball left from the boyfriend socks that i made my hunny....but the color is just to drap for spring....even though it snowed last night here ...i want vibrant colored socks and socks that rock definitely have vibrant colors.

Sock for Me

2008-03-26T07:47:00.001-07:00

I'm almost finished with my first sock for me...yeah. i'm a little further along than the pic below, i'm actually working on the cuff now. It's a pretty plain sock except for two cables, one on each of the front panel. I know it looks a little long, but i have long narrow feet, so it fits me perfectly and that's what is important. I like the yarn because of it squishiness, but its short on yardage, 2 skeins =338 yards.

I haven't been doing any new book reading, my hunny is sick with a cold and so I've been taking care of him and trying not to get sick myself. Book money went to buying lots of cold medicine, orange juice and chicken noodle soup. I guess i could go to the local library, but I like buying books so i can keep them and take as long as i need to read them.

My Hunny's bday is coming up at the end of April and i have to think of something nice for him. I know I'm going to make him a bday cake but I got to get hime something else too.

Reading and Knitting

2008-03-20T08:06:00.001-07:00

I finished reading "The Devil Wears Prada" and now I can say that I ended up liking the book more that I originally thought I would. I've been inspired by the ladies in the Ebony elite sistahfriend knitters group on Ravelry in the 'what are you reading' forum to make my next book read either "Wicked" or "The Kite Runner". Since I've heard good things about both books I'll be heading to the bookstore on Friday.

My favorite book of all time is The Bible....but second would be "Hinds' Feet on High Place" by Hannah Hurnard. This book is very uplifting. This was my G-Ma Hale's ( who passed away this past November) favorite book and she made me read it when I was in high school and I've loved it ever since. Since then, both my mother and my aunt have read it and loved it.

On the Knitting front I've been working on a simple two cable sock for myself (pics below). I'm ripping the Hedera I started to make these socks..the pattern + the yarn was a bit too busy for me...so I'm considering buying some solid color sock yarn and starting the hedera again.

I need to start on something for my mother, aunt and g-ma for mother's day. I figure if i start now, I'll get three projects done by then...we will see. Maybe I'll sew something instead with some needle point...hmmm.... maybe.

please forgive the blurring cellphone pics.

What's In A Name

2008-03-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

What "Nelly" Means

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily.
You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind.
A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable.

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.
Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.
Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.
You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.
Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Charlie Love

2008-03-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling in the sewing mood, and since I've yet to open my sewing machine I received for Christmas I feel the need to sew. I was looking for a beginners pattern that I think would be easy and not take too much fabric. So I went to the Burda Style website and found the pattern for a "Charlie bag". Here is a pic of the original bag below

While it looks a little plain, that's why I like it. I have seen some really nice ones made with the same pattern on the burdastyle website (pics below) that I really like.

this one was made by flowerhead

and this one by Ute

The print of fabric you choose definitely makes this bag....now to find some pretty fabric.

On the knitting front, I started a sock for myself since I finally finished my hunny's socks (which I will take a pic of soon). I'm using the zitron lifestyles yarn that I originally started a Hedera for myself for this new sock. I decided that since I ran out of yarn for the first sock and since the pattern was busy and the yarn was busy that I'd start a simpler toe up sock, it is coming along pretty well.

My hunny wants me to make him the Urban Aran sweater that brooklyntweed made famous by cardiganizing. I gotta get a copy of Patons Street Smart book #500989 so I can start his sweater.
I've heard of the sweater curse, but I'm gonna make it for him anyway..because he asked, and he's soooo good to me. If I start now, it will be ready for next fall...hopefully!

Literature

2008-03-05T11:43:00.000-08:00

I picked up the book 'The Devil Wears Prada" by Lauren Weisberger to read during my recoup from having all four of my wisdom teeth taken out. I didn't feel like much reading then, so lately i picked it back up and started reading it again...and i have to say that I think that in this case this maybe a rarity where the movie was better than the book. Not saying that the book is bad..but in comparison the movie is much more attention holding. I'm almost half way through the book, and while I will finish it, it's not as captivating as the movie was (if your the type of person like me who loves the movie).

I've just recently decided to start reading for leisure again as I've only recently had time to do such. So in addition to knitting content I'll try to pepper m y posts with some books that I'll be reading (or re-reading). I know I'll have to do a post on my favorite books of all time soon.

As for knitting, I'm still ripping the bind-off for my hunny's socks, I need to finish that this week. he keeps making comments about me finishing everybody else stuff but his and i want him to be happy and wearing his socks. My best friend is having a baby and that means baby knits....she's not due till august, but i want to make this adorable fish blanket that i saw on Ravelry, so i need to start buying the yarn now so it will actually be done by the time she or he gets here.

FO:Chunky Cabled Hat

2008-03-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

Another FO for me...2008 is gonna be my year!

Start: February 29

Finished: March 1

Pattern: Unorignial Hat

Yarn: Malabrigo Chunky in Saphire magenta

I looooooooove this yarn people!! it is truly as wonderful as people say it is. The coloring in this colorway is more pink than the original purple that it looked in the hank, but i like it anyway. I live in Michigan and so I still have plenty of time to wear this hat. The edge looks a little funny, but it will definitely do for a nice warm winter hat. The pattern makes a hat that is long enough to cover your ears, which is nice, but i could have started my crown decreases a couple rows earlier so it wouldn't sit so hight at the top, besides that the pattern was cool.

I've also finished the leslouch i made for my aunt and will post pics and details as soon as I block it.

Now I have to go back to housework, cleaning and laundry for me and maybe a little playing with my sewing machine and playing with some felting....if the felting project works out, i'll post about in another post. have a wonderful weekend.

Joy

2008-02-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

Name: Joy
For: My Hunny's Mom
Start: 2/9/2008
Finished: 2/25/2008
Needle: US size 13
Yarn: Lion Brand Landscapes, Color: Country Sunset (3 Skeins)
Lion Brand Suede, Color: Eggplant (1.5 Skeins)
Pattern: variation on on that is in inside of label of Country Sunset Yarn

I finally finished this scarf, and the more i look at it the more I love it...plus it matches the skirt I have on today and i really would like to keep it, but it will make its way to it's intended recipient today. It's nice and warm, fluffy and colorful...what more could a girl want. I didn't measure it, but it's long enough to wrap around once and still have long ends hanging.

I'm still working on redoing the cast off edge on my hunny's boyfriends socks that I cast off to tightly for....yeah I'll get them done sometime this week....I need to finishe them before I finish another project of else he'll be upset with me since he has one sock and not the other.

Here is the start of the leslouch hat for my aunt, I'm using malabrigo worsted and its my first time knitting with it and i absolutely adore it..it's so freaking soft its crazy. Yes, behind it is the hank of yarn laid out. I have yet to buy a ball winder :-( and I didn't have the time when i bought it to ask the store to do it for me, but i doesn't matter because the yarn makes me happy. I can't wait to make my hat with the chunky malabrigo that i bought for myself. The beautiful thing about living in Michigan is that I have plenty of winter left to make myself a hat and get some good wear out of it.

MMMMMMalabrigo

2008-02-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

I purchased my first Malabrigo this Saturday at The Wool and The Floss and it is so yummy.
This is Malabrigo Worsted in Pagoda, I plan on using it for a Le Slouch for my Aunt. (My aunt requested a burgundy hat to match her "Sunday" coat, I sent her 10 different styles of hat and she told me that she liked the one I made myself and the Le Slouch...but then she said I could make whatever i thought was best....then she said she liked the Le Slouch again. Don't you love it when people ask you to make something for them, but then can't make up their minds.)

And below is Malabrigo Chunky in Saphire Magenta, I plan on making an Unoriginal hat for myself. I just couldn't buy some for my aunt and none for me, what kind of knitter would I be if I passed up on buying yarn for myself.

(I keep on petting the malabrigo, is that a sign that I have issues?)

It was my first time visiting this LYS and they have a wonderful selection of yarns and the ladies were very nice too. I will definitely be frequenting there again.

As for progress on my other knitting, I had to go back to Jo Ann's and pick up another ball of the landscapes country sunset and the suede, both by lion brand, to complete the scarf for my hunny's mom. My hunny's sister saw that i was making her mother a scarf and has now requested a scarf for herself...so I'll have to think about what scarf I want to make her and out of what yarn and this is yarn i can convience my hunny to buy which which makes it even better. While I was at Jo Ann's I also grabbed two skeins of Patons in brown and orange, I plan on making my first felted item out of them so we will see how it goes. I also have been working on my hunny's socks, I'm on the leg of the second sock now and plan on finishing this week. I think they are really nice, and besides being a little long in the toe, they fit really well too. It was hard to find a pattern that fit a size mens 13 wide foot, but the boyfriend socks do.

As for other things that have happened, for valentines day my hunny cooked me a wonderful wonderful dinner. He is an excellent cook and enjoys cooking all the time anyway but he got shrimps for me for V-Day and that made me very very happy. I adore my hunny's cooking, last night he made some Jambalaya that was excellent, i would post picks but as of lunch today it has all been eaten.

While I have been looking to get more into the fiber arts career wise, I do love working downtown and the fact that right now their is a man playing his saxophone on the street that I can hear from my window and it's beautiful music....sometimes you gotta love working downtown.

Sunshine and Socks

2008-02-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

The sun is shining and it makes me happy. Last night the snow was falling so thick I could barely see down the streets as i drove home from work. I stopped at CVS and by the time I came out I had to brush off my car, but I saw some kids being kids and playing in the snow and it warmed my heart to see that some kids are still just kids.

On the Knitting front I've finished one of my boyfriend socks, I bound off too tightly so i have to fix it, but I plan on fixing it when I finish the second sock (which I've started already).

I've also started a scraf for my hunny's mom. I didn't get a chance to make her anything for Christmas due to my time management skills being off.
For this scarf I'm using Lion Brand Landscapes in Country Sunset and Lion Suede in Eggplant.

Pretty Colors

I'm knitting with both yarns together...i think it calms down the landscapes yarn a bit, but still pretty.

For Christmas I gave my g-ma a scarf and now she's requesting fringe for the edges so i'll have to go get more yarn today and do that for her tomorrow. My aunt is also requesting a burgundy hat, she wants the Le Slouch. I think I want to try some Malabrigo worsted in burgundy, On all the knitting blogs I read Malabrigo seems to be a great yarn and so soft. A lot of knitters on Ravelry have already made this hat and a few in the Malabrigo and it looks sooo yummy...I might have to grab some for myself while I'm at my LYS.

Since I haven't posted the glories of Ravelry I will now, If for some reason you are a knitter, crocheter, yarn dyer, spinner and aren't on Ravelry or haven't signed up you REALLY REALLY REALLY need to sign up. Ravelry is the greatest site EVER!!!! To be able to see people handwork form locally to globally is a wonderful thing. I get inspired everytime I login and I sometimes trick myself into believing that I can too knit as well as some of the people on Ravelry.

Third FO and a Cast on

2008-01-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, I've finished my third FO of the year, a cute little Trinity Stitch hat. It's my first hat and the decrease are a little wonky, but nothing terrible. I wore it and even my hunny said it was cute ( and that saying something. The trinity stitch take a while, but the effect is nice. I followed the adjustment for the stitch from Stitch and Tones and i didn't make it as slouchy as the original.
Start: 1/28
Finish: 1/26
Yarn: Carson Simply Soft Heather
Pattern: variation of Trinity Stitch Hat
Needles: size # 7 circular

I also cast on for a baby cardigan for my friends nephew. He's 6 months old, We'll see how it turns out, its my second baby item and the first was two small (but that wasn't my fault, he arrived way early). This is my first stab a colorwork to, so hopefully it goes well, I think it might be a little big, but he'll be able to wear it next winter if not this winter.

Tonight I'll be going home to work on my paper. I need to knock it out tonight, No knitting tonight just typing and highlighting and writing and maybe a little cursing, but I'll try my best not to. I'll make some hot coco to combat the cursing part and if i get enough work done on my paper maybe I'll knit anyway :-) we'll see what happens.

Second FO of 2008

2008-01-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

Start: 1/16
Finish: 1/22
Yarn: Sugar N' Cream in beige
Pattern: Garterlac Dishcloth
Needles: Size #7

Second FO of the year. I see why people knit dishcloths now, its such an instant gratification rush. Cute little pattern. I am pleased with how it turned out. It was another project that I only knit while at work.

First FO 2008

2008-01-16T08:13:00.001-08:00

My first FO of 2008 is the reverse bloom flower dishcloth.
Start: Jan 2
Finish: Jan 16
Pattern: Reverse Bloom Flower Dishcloth
Yarn: Sugar 'N Cream in Hot Blue
I think it is so cute, really big, but cute none the less. Not blocked yet, but that will have to wait till I get home from work. I've only worked on this project while at work (during lunch, while my computer boots up, while my computer acts up....you get the picture) I think everybody will be getting one for Christmas 08 and maybe I'll give a try at homemade soap and lip balm since I didn't get the time to do it last year.

I've also cast on for the Garterlac Dishcloth in Sugar 'N Cream in a beige color

That's all for the knitting front, still working on the socks, but I've been helping someone pack and move and that's been taking up all of my spare (if you wanna call it that) time. I didn't make any resolutions for the year because knowing me I will definitely break them. so i just have one goal. To do better in 2009 than i did in 2007. By "Doing Better' I mean upping my game at all of the tasks that I do, whether it be knitting, sewing, work related items, teaching and spreading God's word, keeping finances together, cooking, baking and everything else.

Hope Everyone is doing well out there.

Saturday Night Knitting Badges

2008-01-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Knitting and Beer..what could be better.

Progress on my boyfriend sock and Ghettoblaster Beer from Motor City Brewing Works.

cabling with a paper clip (above) has earned me this:

it is my "MacGyver" Badge (Level One)

and drinking while knitting has earned me this:

it is my "Knitting Whilst Under The Influence Badge"

I'm so proud, Two badges in one night.....I'm brilliant!

I haven't had a badge since I was actually in girl scouts many moons ago....

those were good days

Pic of Boyfriend Sock for my hunny

2008-01-08T14:38:00.001-08:00

My hunny and Christmas '08

2008-01-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

I started knitting the boyfriend sock on Sat and I am loving this pattern, I've only made one mistake so far, I cabled one of the cables the wrong way..but oh well. I'm making these for my hunny, I kept looking for a good pattern to fit his size 13 wide feet and this one seems right on the mark. Since it's a top up design I've been trying it on him as I knit and it fits him well...I'm so excited, he said that these are going to be his favorite socks because I made them...awwwe isn't he a sweetheart! That's why I love him. I'll post a pic of my progress on them when I get home.

I also started a flower washrag. Below is pic of one of the petals..this thing is huge. Next time I will definitely make one smaller than this, but it is a cute and quick project, many people will probably get these for Christmas '08.

Yes, I said Christmas '08 I'm starting my planning now. My goal is to finish one gift a month, that way I won't be overwhelmed in December again. I still have a scarf to finish for Christmas...but I didn't tell the recipient that he was getting it...so he can get it anytime.

I'm so excited about my sewing machine, I have to set up some dates with my G-Ma so she can teach me. Both her and one of her sisters are seamstress' so I'm excited and hope that some of their sewing genes passed on to me. ...I really won't be able to do much until the end of this month. These middle weeks are gonna be hectic for my schedule, but I'd rather be busy than bored.

Homeless Shelter Design

2008-01-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's Day!
Jan 1, 2008..wow 2007 went fast, but at the beginning of another year I always think the previous year went fast. Thanks You Jesus for allowing me to see another day let alone another year!
I rang in the new year doing a shot of 1800, which might become a new tradition.

and now......
GRRRRRRRRR......
(my mother hates it when i say that)...but it's how I feel.
I am currently working on my Master's essay so I can graduate and get on with my life. I'm researching homeless shelter design and their affect on the safety, dignity and socialization of the homeless and it's affect on the management of these facilities. This would be easy if there were alot of work previously done on this topic, but there hasn't been......and so I'm frustrated a bit. I have only found one book that is specifically related to my topic and while in previous times I have been a delinquent about finishing my paper, I have to graduate in May 2008 or else many many many people will hurt me. This paper is the only thing that stands between me and freedom.....I can do it, I can do it I can do it!

On the knitting front I haven't done much lately but I plan on getting a bit done this weekend. We'll see what happens.

Christmas Knitting and New Years

2007-12-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

For Christmas I finished knitting my mother and Argosy scarf in Noro and it only took me three days, I'm so proud. Please excuse the cell phone pics, I can't currently find the cord to link my camera to my computer

I gave my G-Ma a burgundy 3 cabled scarf in Lions Heart and my aunt a quick stockinette scarf in some white sparkley yarn I don't know the name of right now. I'm still in the middle of the scarf that I was suppose to give my G-Pa.

So this is the list of projects that I currently have on my needles and need to finish before I start another project:
1. G-Pa's Scarf
2. Hedera Socks for me
3. Trinity Beret for me
4. Baby Placket Seater
5. Cabled Socks for my hunny (not started but i already have the yarn and the pattern)

I had a wonderful Christmas..I got a sewing machine and I am soooo excited about it. I also went to Williams and Sonoma and bought two beautiful cake pans as a gift from me to me.

2008 is the year of the Domestic Goddess!
While there are many things I flourish at......domesticity has never been one of them. I can cook, but why do it when my better half does it so much better. I do do laundry and I will do dishes if I have to.....but in 2008 I plan on bringing my domestic side up to par with my professional career minded side. I also want to get organized...really organized.(we'll see how it goes)

I will be spending the New Year celebrating at some friends house, kickin' back and relaxing.

Happy New Year To All!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow Let it Snow!

2007-12-17T11:15:00.000-08:00

So, we finally got our first real heavy snow, we here in Detroit got 8-16 inches of snow in the Metropolitan area, depending on where you live, over Saturday night through Sunday. I'm glad for the Snow, although technically it's not winter yet, it's still 'fall'. It looks so pretty, the only thing I have yet to figure out is why the snow storm always seems to come on the weekend, so i still had to come to work today. The snow storm never seems to come on a weekday..never, not that my place of employment would ever shut down, they would just say ' well if you don't think you can make it, you can take an annual leave day'....like I really want to take an annual leave day for a natural disaster that i didn't plan.

I spent last night digging out my car from the snow, it was kinda fun....kinda. I made my way to the video store and rented 3 movies to cozy up to. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if I was able to make it to Starbucks for an Eggnog Chai..Yummy! It's not on my current list of things I can drink thanks to my sinus issues, i try to stay away from dairt products when I'm mucusy..they just make it worse, but as soon as I can completely breathe normal..I'm headed to get me one.

Anyway, i've finally gotten together my resolve to finish some Christmas presents, I started a scarf today that I think will go pretty fast, I have two more to knit up before Christmas, wish me luck.

Being Sick Sucks!

2007-12-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

I have had a head cold since friday and I'm sick of it. My sinuses/allergies are all in a tizzy and today is the first day I've been able to breath through my noise in days. I am not good at 'being sick', I instantly revert to a 5 year old version of myself that requires Campbell chicken noodle soup (the original condensed version) and lots of attention and sleep. I had to take 2 days off of work because of it which I didn't plan on doing and I've been taking medication every 4-6 hours since friday. I've been drinking tea and water and taking vitamin C pills. If anyone out there has any home remedies for nasal congestion please let me know.

I did get a chance to knit a few more rounds on my Hedera sock which made me happy as I sat at home watching t.v. and fading in and out of sleep. I wish i could find a way to make my job to sit at home and knit. Apparently I haven't figured it out yet, or else it's what I would be doing...but trust me, I'll figure out a way. Somethings gotta change....but I gotta be willing to work hard for that change!

Detroit #40

2007-12-11T12:11:00.000-08:00

Well well well, so the New York Time named Detroit as one of 'The 53 Places to Go in 2008".
For all of the obvious reasons we who live in and near Detroit already know. I find it exciting and terribly sad at the same time. I'm excited the Detroit is finally receiving the good press it deserves and sad that some people will only come because the New York Time said so, and for those who still won't give Detroit a chance. Even sadder for the people who live in the burbs of Detroit and won't come down to see what the city is really about and for the people who only come down for a Tigers or Lions game or maybe even a concert at the Fox and then head straight back out of the city without spending any time at the local night spots or eateries or cultural attractions. Detroit is a wonderful city that has soooo many good things to see and do and so much to offer to the people who are willing to give it a chance! (For all of the good and exciting things about and in Detroit, we always seem to get the worse press possible and this is why I'm probably so disillusioned with the media and what they think about anything, but this time they seem to have gotten it right about Detroit...for once. )

On the Knitting front I've finished the heel on my Hedera sock and started the gusset(I have pics but I'm posting from work and of course the pics are on my home computer). I think I'm going to run out of yarn for the toe and so i might end up doing it in a contrasting color...we'll see. I haven't I haven't done much knitting on anything else. I've seen some things I want to knit, but with the holiday's approaching I'm on a strict yarn fast...no more new yarn until after Christmas.

Knitting Makes Everything Better

2007-12-04T12:59:00.000-08:00

I just started back knitting again today and I remember all the glorious things knitting does for me..... like calm my frantic nerves when it feels like everything is spinning out of control!!! which seems like my life these days. Calling on Jesus, reading fiction and knitting are all I can do to make that pounding in my chest quiet down and make my head feel like it's not about to pop. I had to rip back a couple (like 20) rows of my Hedera heel flap because I read the directions wrong...that always sucks. I knew something wasn't quiet right, but with knitterly denial I knitted onward! But I'm glad i did so now it looks like its suppose to look.

My fascinating Tuesday night will consist of doing my budget, doing Bible study, watching tv and knitting and maybe a little reading before I go to sleep. Pretty routine, I need to go buy the next two Harry Potter books: Year 4 and 5, so to distract me I've picked up "The Devil Wears Prada" by Lauren Weisberger. I've only read the first chapter but so far so good. I originally bought the book last year in October, I thought i would have a chance to read it when I got all four of my wisdom teeth pulled...but i didn't want to read, i just wanted to watch tv, sleep and moop.

I've decided that I'm starting 2008 now, meaning that I'm changing the way I do things now, instead of waiting until the first of the year to make some bullsheesh resolution that I won't follow through on. So, I've started my financial reform, I'm giving myself 3 years to get the majority of my debt paid off. I'm also gonna keep to my savings plan if it kills me and start investing this year.

The Color Of My Brain

2007-12-03T09:34:00.000-08:00

Your Brain is Orange

Of all the brain types, yours is the quickest.
You are usually thinking a mile a minute, and you could be thinking about anything at all.
Your thoughts are often scattered and random - but they're also a lot of fun!

You tend to spend a lot of time thinking about esoteric subjects, the meaning of life, and pop culture.

What Color Is Your Brain?

Harry Potter and Charlie Brown

2007-11-29T07:33:00.000-08:00

So, I stated a few posts back that I thought I was going to start reading the Harry Potter books, and I have and I'm so glad that I did. I'm reading book 3 now, The Prisoner of Azkaban. It has really taken my mind of off some of the things that were stressing me out. That and the occasional screwdriver :-)!

I am so happy the holiday season is here, I do love this time of year. I love the decorations, the food, the shopping and just about everything about it. My favorite Holiday CD is the Vince Guaraldi, 'A Charlie Brown Christmas". I absolutely adore it and probably play it way too much this time of year, but whatever...it's great!

I'll post another post on the true meaning of Christmas later, I don't have the energy to criticize the way some people treat Christmas right now..besides I'm happy and anticipating my Egg Nog Latte From Starbucks tomorrow that really sets off the holiday right. I've been watching ' A Charlie Brown Christmas' online on youtube and it set the day off right!
for the original here are the links, it might make your day brighter.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Happy Holidays!

To Everything There Is A Season

2007-11-21T11:10:00.000-08:00

I have a little progress on my sock to show:

and that is it, I never made it to Michael's when I said I was going so hopefully I can make it today. I went to my second funeral in 2 weeks today, first was my G-Ma's last monday on the 12th and today was my cousin's. He was only 41 and was a great husband, father and all around good guy. He will be truely missed. He had a massive heatattack on Wednesday the 14th and it took everyone by surprise, including me. He and his wife and and of their sons were just at my G-ma's funeral that Monday and all week long before that his wife had been over the house helping with the preparations. So this one was blowing my a bit, but then I read

Ecclesiates 3:1-8
"To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecc 3:2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up [that which is] planted; Ecc 3:3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; Ecc 3:4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; Ecc 3:5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; Ecc 3:6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; Ecc 3:7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; Ecc 3:8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace."

And realized that there is a season for eveything, and sooner or later we all must pass that way.

The point in life is to spread the Word of God and live a life worth of the Salvation you've been given if you are a true Christian and to live each day to the fullest. Tell the people that you love, that you love them and be thankful and greatful for all that you've been given and for all the people who you've been allowed to share your life with and who have allowed you to share in theirs.

As for me I will be spending my turkey day morning watching the turkey day parade from my bed all wrapped up in my covers with some hot cocoa and my turkey day dinner at my cousin's house. The last time I went to the actual parade I was a kid and it was freakin' cold outside, so I told my mother that we didn't have to ever do that again and so the watching it from bed tradition began. I would always spend my thanksgiving dinner at my G-Ma Hale's (the one who passed away) and my Christmas morning at my G-Ma Rowe's, this was the arragement that was worked out between my parents a long long, long long time ago, and it's always stuck. Till this day I spend my Thanksgiving with my dad's side of the family and my Christmas morning with my mom's side of the family. So I will be spending my Thanksgiving at my cousin's house since she took over Thanksgiving dinner last year....and luckily she can acctually cook, not quite G-Ma's, but close.

Wishing Everyone A Happy Turkey Day and a Wonderful Holiday Weekend!

Broken Rules and Giving Thanks

2007-11-19T06:36:00.000-08:00

So, last week I broke one of my rules I set up for this blog, I am suppose to post at least once a week, but last week was my G-Ma's funeral service and a cousin of mine also past away...so I didn't post because I wasn't in the mood.

I don't have any pics this week because I haven't had much time to knit (which has been a tragedy to me). I decided that I'm going to make the Brea bag for my mom for Christmas and I think I will make the Danica scarf for friend's mom. I need to go buy the yarn for both these projects so I will be headed to Michael's tonight.

Thanksgiving is this Thursday and the year has flown by. Here's a list of things I'm grateful for:
1. Being Saved!
2. Every second that the Lord allows me to have on this side of the dirt.
3. 3 day work week
4. My family and friends
5. Left over turkey samiches (yes i spelled it that way on purpose)
6. Knowing that everything will be alright

Life is a wonderful opportunity.....live everyday to the fullest because tomorrow is not guaranteed for anyone.

Hedera,The Socerer's Stone, and American Gangster

2007-11-09T07:58:00.000-08:00

I've made a little progress on my sock, but not as much as i would like because I'm real busy at work. I do love this yarn though, its just springy enough and it doesn't split on me which is great. I'm loving the pattern because it's simple and since it isn't plain stockinette it has just enough variation to keep me interested. I even love the color combination in the yarn, I wanted to do a sock pattern with a little lace just to keep me interested in knitting it and I think the selection of yarn and the pattern turned out pretty well, although to see the lace work better I'll knit it in a solid color next time. Please excuse the fuzziness of the pics, I took them with my cameraphone.

I have started reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and am pleasantly surprised. I actually like and enjoy reading it.I haven't read a book that wasn't school related in soooooo very long. I feel like a kid again, I use to read all the time and while this isn't the hardest reading on the planet, it's fun and exactly what I need right now.

I also saw the movie American Gangster...a classic, and I bought Jay-Z's American gangster CD. Both are Hotness! Go see the Movie and go get the CD! PRONTO!

My family is making arragements for my G-Ma's funeral and I've had a headache for the past two days but when I woke up this morning it was gone, finally. Nothing much else is going on.

Shopping Therapy

2007-11-07T08:49:00.001-08:00

So, I participated in some shopping therapy yesterday. I didn't lose my mind, I just bought some new sock yarn and some new Addi US# 1 circular needles 40" and started a Hedera for myself and the first Harry Potter book (The Sorcerer's Stone) and the November issue of Elle. While nothing changes the grieving process, a little distraction is always helpful.

I have never knit an adult sock before so this is my first attempt, I knit some baby booties ( that turned out too small) for a friends baby boy, so I know the general technic, but we will see how this goes for me. I love knitting and wish I had time to do it all the time. I don't know how I did without it before.

I'll probably be doing some baking therapy later on this week, brownies and cupcakes always make things better.

My pretty Zitron sock yarn, the pics don't do it justice, its so pretty (at least to me it is).

And soon I will have pretty socks ...

Beauty for Ashes

2007-11-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 61:3

"To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified."

This morning, I am sad to say, My g-ma passed away, but God is still good and his will is perfect. If you don't know Jesus, I suggest you get to know him, it will be the best possible thing you will ever do and He will sustain you when times are hard. I love my g-ma and I'll miss her dearly, but I'm glad she doesn't have to suffer anymore, i'm glad she's at peace.

Love you G-ma!!

Another Monday

2007-11-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for each and everyday that the Lord allows me to see, but I'm feeling sluggish today. I didn't get any work done on my paper over the weekend, I have tons of work at work to do and my Father just called me and told me that my g-ma is not doing well and she's back in the hospital.

My g-ma has been battling cancer in her bladder all year, she was diagnosed in February and has since been through chemotherapy and radiation at the age of 86. She's a trooper but it hasn't been easy and she was never a sick person so it's been really hard on her and the family. My father called me to tell me she's back in the hospital and that he's not sure what's gonna happen. She's been in a rehab facility for about a month now and she never liked it there, she just wanted to go home. She didn't eat much before she got sick because she was always 'watching her weight' so now getting her to eat to get her strength back had been a trying ordeal. I've always been the only person I knew whose g-ma is taller than me (I stand 5'5 and she is 5'9 at 86! and she's got jokes about me being short too). I don't want her to be in pain and I want her to be happy so I understand if she's tired of fighting....so I'll be at the hospital tonight praying and hoping for the best and knitting for comfort.

On the Needles:
So I started the Child's Placket-Neck Pullover, for a friends baby boy. I wasn't paying attention and I cast on for the 1-2year old size, so now i have to decrease down to the 6-12 month size because the boy is only 3 months old now. I plan on it being a Christmas gift..we will see how things go. Here are some pics of the start of it:

Lots of stockinette here. I've never done any color work before, but U of M beating Michigan State on Saturday(I'm a wolverine, GO BLUE!!!!!!!) put me in the mood for some, I want to make myself a Maize and Blue scarf with the University of Michigan M on it, but this project might have to wait until Christmas knitting is over, so very sad for me :-( put very good for the projects I need to finish for Christmas

Since I quite my part time job, my goal is to be a domestic diva, but in order to start my diva-ness off correctly I have to clean my apartment...cleaning SUCKS! I have not ever been a super organized person and so for me cleaning and organizing is a massive task. Don't get me wrong, I do know where everything is, it just takes a while to find it exactly. I call it organized chaos. While I stick to my statement that cleaning SUCKS! I do love the end result, so this week it is on, I have to clean, organize, throw out something every day. I know people usually clean in the spring, but I call this fall/ holiday cleaning. My aunt always had said that a cluttered space is the result of a cluttered mind, so I'm clearing out my space and hopefully my mind will be focused in the process.

Cakes and Bags

2007-10-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

So, that cake I was suppose to make, turned into a lemon crunch cake that I bought. I just couldn't fit it in last night. Today is my managers retirement party and tomorrow is his last day (his birthday) and I'm a little sad. I like my manager and it's hard to find people who you like to work for. Also he wrote all of the staff personal thank you notes for the work we have done and the full time staff also got gift certificates. I got a $10 one to starbucks :-) His wife even baked us coffee cake for our staff meeting this morning. I don't want my manager to go. While the new manager is cool (he currently works in our department) I still want my current manager to stay. Oh well.

On the Knitting Front, Hopefully I'll get to finish my other fetching tonight. I've also decided that I'm going to make my mother a purse for Christmas, but I'm not completely sure which one I should make. Either the Brea Bag

or this one

the only issue is that the second bags directions are in finnish. but i do love it. It's sophisticated and simple. the first one is pretty also, so someone is gonna get it for Christmas.

Delinquency Continues

2007-10-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't written much on my paper...maybe another paragraph, which is so so sad. On top of that I haven't knitted much either...so I'm doubly sad. I have been at work, so that makes up for some of it.

I am so overrun with ideas on what I want to make different family members for Christmas. This year I'm convinced that I'm making Christmas gifts, these gifts will consist of knitted goodness, homemade soap and home made lip balms. I'm already finished one knitted item for one g-ma and this upcoming weekend I'm gonna buy the yarn to make the purse I'm going to make my Momma for Christmas. I sent my mother a picture of a fair isle sweater that someone had done on ravelry and she said she wanted that...but she's gonna have to wait for that. I'm not sure I'd have the time to complete it plus the other gifts I need to get done.

For Christmas I'm hoping to receive a sewing machine and a new digital camera...but we'll see. I'd be cool with either. My current camera is not the hotness and I want something that will do a better job. I want a sewing machine because both my g-ma and her sister are seamstresses and I grew up watching my g-ma make the prettiest dresses, tops and skirts. She used to let me make her little purses to match her outfits when I was a kid. I want to be able to sew like her, which i know is gonna take some practice, but under my g-ma's watchful eye, I should do fine. I also saw a quilting book yesterday at the bookstore and I got all excited. I've never tried quilting, but what the heck, I'm becoming a sucker for all things crafty.

On the book reading front it has been so long since I've read any book purely for the fun of it and I'm getting an itching to start reading the Harry Potter books. I know I know I know...before you even say anything I already know. I like the movies and I figure the books are always better than the movies..so what the heck. So I'm putting them on my reading list. The only book that I read that isn't school or work related is The Bible and that is essential for life and salvation!!!

Tonight I have to go home and bake a cake for my manager's retirement party which is tomorrow. I haven't baked anything since Mother's day (wow that was a long long time ago). I made homemade muffins for my momma, aunt, and both g-ma's and they loved them. I use to bake all the time, then I moved and lost the time to bake. I'm slowly getting back into it. I love baked goodness..it makes my tummy happy. Hopefully I'll post some pics of the cake once its done.

FO and Procrastination

2007-10-24T13:03:00.000-07:00

Soooo. I may be the biggest or at least on of the biggest procrastinators of all time. I've been working on my master's degree in urban planning for 4 years now...and all I have to do to finish is to finish my Master's Essay. How long have I been working on it you ask? good question. for the better part of 2 years. Should I have finished it by now? another good question HECKS YEAH!!!!! So what's the problem you ask? lack of motivation. When you get a job before you graduate that doesn't require you to finish your degree as a requirement for employment your motivations totally gone. But I've been renewed and so I must finish my paper before the end of the year. I need to stop being a procrastinator and a delinquent about something that will help further my career.....IT"S ON NOW!!!!!!!

Knitting Update: so here are the pics of my irish hiking scarf. such simple pattern yeilds great results. I adore it and have been getting great reviews from my friends and fam that have seen it.

So on to the next project. I've started the fetching fingerless gloves from Knitty. I've already finished the left one ( except weaving in the ends) and have just started the right one today.

Irish Hiking Scarf

2007-10-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

I started the Irish Hiking scarf for the Red Scarf Project, but I soon realized that I wasn't going to have enough time to finish in time for it to be sent...so now this scarf will be my G-Pa's Christmas gift. The beauty of knitting is that even when you miss your target deadline...things always work out. The good thing about giving gifts to my G-pa is that he is excited with whatever I buy or make him. Here are some progress pictures of the scarf.......they are taken with my camera phone, so excuse them for not being crisp.

hello out there

2007-10-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

I've started to this time keep a blog up. I've started one in past years, and lost the passion for them, but this one i vow will be different!!! These are my self imposed rules (that I will keep on various sticky notes at work and at home to remind me)
1. I will post at least once a week
2. The post will involve
a. knitting
b. cooking
c. fashion commentary
d. urban design, planning commentary
e. anything that interests me that week...cause hey, it's my blog!
I figure I need to brush up on my writing skills, because with my current job i don't do any writing, short e-mails at best....so here we go...let the fun begin!