D is for...

Design.

This is part of the knitting trifecta for me.  Design, fibre and fit.  If the design is wrong, the whole thing falls apart.  It is the tray upon which the other two rest, the foundation of the item being created.

Hobbit's Bunny Hat

I  have designed several things, mostly kid hats and dog sweaters.  I stumbled into designing by accident.  The first original design that comes to mind was Hobbit's Bunny Hat.  She wanted a hat the looked like a bunny and I was searching all over the place.  The only things I could find were for newborns - a size that wouldn't work for a her since she was 5 at the time.  So, since there wasn't one out there, I set out to make my own.  It wasn't too terribly difficult and the end result was adorable.  It was quickly followed by Peanut's Bella Beanie, a plea to take her cat to college that resulted in a black cat hat for her.

I branched out, as it were, and designed sweaters for Ramsay.  He was too small for the smallest dog sweater on the market.  I really needed to make him something because it was unusually cold here this past winter.  I got out my pencil, paper and tape measure so I could sketch out what I wanted to make.  This was a first.  I had never sketched anything out before since I had mainly been designing hats.  This would have been my first item that required measurements, decreasing, increasing and general shaping.  My first attempt was alright - plain and simple - but my second had a bit of flair to it because I had grown bolder.

The Cat's Meow

With a few bits and bobs along the way, I am now designing my first shrug.  Sure, I've done wraps and things but this is an honest to goodness sweater.  I have been working on this project for about a month.  I have the pattern all written out and I am just now starting the test knitting phase.  I have the banding done and have begun the underarm shaping.  I hope to get back to it soon - currently I seem to be obsessed with my new trick of creating Granny Squares.

D is definitely for design - delicious, delectable, delightful design.

This is a new series started by An Accidental Knitter that I thought would be fun so every Monday, we'll be learning our ABCs together!  Click here for more information or to join in the fun.

Quiet - What's Up?

So it's been unusually quiet here on the blog.  Not me, but by y'all.  Too many family oriented posts?  Blogger being a booger and causing issues?  What's up?

A dear friend email me, said she was having issues commenting but wanted me she was there.  I appreciated her for that and then I got to wondering if others are having problems as well.

So here's what we'll do ~  If you can comment but just haven't been moved to do so, please hit "Cool".  If you have wanted to comment but are having issues, please hit "Interesting".  I understand not wanting to comment and I take no offense it at all.  I don't always comment - but I do always read - so it's nothing to worry over.  If you have been wanting to write and have been having issues, well then that is something that I need to fix for y'all.

Have a safe and pleasant Memorial Day tomorrow... and take a moment to remember those who have fallen protecting our great nation.

Old Dog, New Trick

Psychedelic Squares

Yesterday afternoon, my mama taught me something new.  It wasn't as difficult as I had originally anticipated.  It actually was quite easy.  The directions I had read numerous times before which all sounded like a foreign language to me with a secret handshake that I had no chance of ever learning were suddenly starting to make sense... I was crocheting!

I have a love of granny squares.  I always have.  My mama made me a bedspread when I was a little girl that was nothing but granny squares and it was perfect.  I held on to it through college and then, somewhere along the way, I no longer possessed it.  I have no idea what happened to it because barring a natural disaster eating it whole, I would have kept it for all eternity.  Over the years, I have attempted to learn crochet and over the years, I have failed.  I would give it an honest go but my knitting brain was not comprehending the crochet word.  I couldn't get my hands to do what my logical brain thought it could figure out... and actually, I still don't know if I could because I was taught the same way I learned to knit - sitting at my mama's feet.

My 1st Granny Squares

There I was, just like so many years before, with instrument and yarn in hand, eager to tackle the project... and I was successful!  I now know how to make a granny square.  I don't know the names of the stitches.  I don't know how to write out the pattern but I can work it.  I can physically manipulate the hook and yarn to create cute little squares... and that makes this old dog very happy.

She Did It!

Yep, my baby girl was graduated tonight.  She did it.  She made it with half of a credit extra and a 3.1 GPA.  My little Peanut is officially a high school graduate and now, a college freshman.  Oh my goodness - can you believe it?  Here are some highlights of tonight's events.  Enjoy!

Taken after a tearful hug with me.

She walked in... he skipped.

She was crying and smiling - so proud of her.

Hobbit, me, Peanut and Pokey - One proud family

So Far...

Nana and Hobbit catching up

Peanut modeling the socks I just finished for her

Oh yeah, and my dress is finished

Today's The Day!

In the blink of an eye, my Peanut went from this...

to this...

Happy Graduation Day, Peanut!  You've grown into a wonderful, talented, kind and generous soul.  I love you so very much and proud beyond words.  You're amazing.

Three Happies in One Day!

Image by Laura Taylor

The first happy came when I opened my email and found that I had won a giveaway from Laura over at Needles, Pins and Baking Tins.  She writes the most fantastic blog about quilting, knitting and baking that I have ever found.  I just know that in 20 years time, when Pokey retires, I'm going to find her in my travels across the UK and we'll spend the day gabbing and crafting!  So Laura's email said that I won the fat quarters and notions case from her giveaway which just tickled me to no end.

Just as soon as I finished reading my email and responding to it, my phone rang.  It was my mama telling me that according to the GPS (which they call "Thomas Thomas".. lol), that she and Daddy will be here just before 4 p.m. which is about three hours earlier than her previous estimation from the night prior.

Image from Lynne at Lily's Quilts

The third happy comes from Laura again - she is just that fabulous.  I had left a comment on her blog thanking her for the prize and sharing about how I wanted to make a Union Jack pillow with my winnings.  Welp, Laura emailed me back with a link to a pattern/tutorial on how to make a Union Jack mini quilt!  This woman has made me tickled to death and it's barely past 10 a.m... some days are just perfect.

Now, with all this good luck, I'm going to get off here and go tackle my graduation dress - best to strike while the mojo is good... wish me luck!

You Know... That Road

Click to enlarge

I had full intentions of sewing my dress today after I got back from Hobbit's graduation and Peanut's graduation practice but I got sidetracked with last minute things that needed to be done for my folks arrival/graduation weekend/Pokey's birthday. 

Then I sat down here and played a few online puzzle games so before I knew it, it's 5:30 p.m. and supper needs to be finished up.  I swear that I will sew my dress tomorrow because I don't have anywhere to go but Hobbit to and from school.

Then again... we all know what road is paved with good intentions.  sigh

Speaking of Concentration

I totally forgot that today was the whole Ten on Tuesday thing... it's okay though because it was on "Catalog Shopping"... something I do not do.  I'm too tactile to catalog shop.  I don't like to order something in a standard size that should fit and after waiting for it to arrive, learn that it doesn't for whatever reason.  I prefer to wander around, aimlessly really, and touch all the items.  When one grabs me, I'll try it on.  If it looks good, I'll fall in love... and then I usually look at the price tag, faint dead away and either photograph it to mentally deconstruct and recreate or start figuring out a way to noodle my budget.  Oh yeah, my purse always has a camera, tape measure, pen and paper to write down all the necessary information.  So to recap:

1. Always carry camera in your purse.
2. Always have pen and paper handy.
3. Know your measurements.
4. Deconstruct the item mentally.
5. Tissue paper makes great pattern pieces.
6. The sewing machine is your friend.
7. Knitting a sweater is a million times better than buying one from a catalog.
8. Teach someone else how to sew or knit - or learn from someone else if you don't know.
9. Impulsing shopping is awful.
10. Save a tree - don't catalog shop... my uber liberal friends will be clapping now... hehehe.

So there you have my version of catalog shopping - don't do it... don't even shop at the store.  The store is for inspiration really.  Simply make it yourself and find joy the entire process... that's what I do now and I love it.

C is for...

concentration... most definitely concentration.

Most everything around here lately has been requiring my full concentration - keeping it together for Peanut's graduation, knitting patterns, blog posts, photography projects, baking and a myriad of other bits and bobs... the challenge is that I can barely keep focus to accomplish the mundane things.  Shoot, just yesterday I almost let Hobbit go to school without shoes!

Perhaps it is nerves, worries or just general ennui but whatever it is, my concentration is shot.  My coffee consumption could probably be increased but given the astronomical amount that I naturally drink, I'm not sure that would be a fabulous solution.  I could get more sleep but since I've taken to having a 45 minute nap every afternoon, I'm sure that's not a great solution either.  I just don't know.

What I do know is that in about three weeks time, I will have my concentration back but for now it appears to be available in fits and starts so best take it while it's there.

This is a new series started by An Accidental Knitter that I thought would be fun so every Monday, we'll be learning our ABCs together!  Click here for more information or to join in the fun.

I Want One...

You can get one here

Is it wrong that I want one of these? I've wanted one since I found it about a year ago. It's perfect and precious and wonderful... and a child's toy that I probably won't let my child touch.

Is that wrong... really?

Too Funny Not To...

Okay, so I was doing my daily reading and Laura had this cute little thing up "introducing" herself.  I had such a giggle at hers that I had to do my own.  So here is my introduction, for those who may not be in the know...

REAL NAME:  Amy Sessions
WITNESS PROTECTION NAME:  Ann Wayne
NASCAR NAME:  Doris Betty
STAR WARS NAME:  SesAm
DETECTIVE NAME:  Pink Chihuahua
SOAP OPERA NAME:  Elizabeth Baltimore
SUPERHERO NAME:  The Green Coffee
FLY NAME:  Amns
STREET NAME: Vanilla Peanut Butter
PORN NAME:  Sam Coconut
GANGSTA NAME:  Sesizzle
GOTH NAME:  Black Buddy
STRIPPER NAME:  Baby Soft Butterfinger

Would you like to play too?  Just click here, it's fun!

Life Gets Interesting

I am always amazed at how Pokey and I take turns on who gets to be ticky over something.  If it comes to dealing with physical people, I get to do it.  If it has to do with mechanical or physical objects, he gets to do it.  We are each frustrated to no known end by that which we do not deal with... but today it just struck me as funny regarding how things just seem to naturally fall into place during a marriage.

Peanut, Hobbit & Pokey - so cute!

Today, Pokey noticed some hinky charges to our bank account that should not have occured which then made our account go negative so that the checks we wrote at the grocer became rubbery, if you catch my drift, and that caused us to incur more charges.  He was going through the roof.  I set him to task at finding me the 800 service number and then kissed him goodbye for work.  While he left, a bit hot under the collar, I made a phone call.  All I can say is "Thank you, Disney, for teaching me how to keep my cool whilst dealing with ignorant people" because it sure came in handy this morning.  Not only did my magical ways get all the charges refunded, the other things were dropped and our money is back in our account, safe and sound.  A thing that poor Pokey would not have been able to do because he would have lost it all over them.

Now, before y'all start nodding I have to give Pokey his proper kudos - because he deals with the things that make my blood boil.  Things that involve tools or assembly or detailed step by step instructions.. that is his area of expertise.  I end up throwing it across the room - like I did with the mop earlier in the week.  I couldn't get the new sponge head on, I got it off just fine but couldn't get the new one on so my temper (which I inherited from my red headed daddy) flared up and I tossed it across the room in a most unladylike fashion.  Pokey wandered in, popped it on, kissed my forehead, chuckled at me and went back to shampooing the carpets.

He forgives me of my temper with inanimate objects just as I forgive him his in regards to animated ones.  It's funny how these things just seem to fall into place - and it is definitely one of the things that keeps life interesting.

Cookies, Photos and Fibre... Oh My!

Oh boy - cookies!

The girls decided to make cookies today.  We have Chocolate Chocolate Chip ones and Peanut Butter ones.  I have to say though, the peanut butter ones came out perfectly!  Every year for Christmas, I make a batch of these and they never turn out as great as theirs did today.  Size, shaping, sugaring... I'm resisting the urge to photo shoot them for the rest of the night.  Yes, they are that fabulous.

I took a few photos of the girls making their treats.  I worked really hard not to cry during the process too because it dawned on me that this would probably be the last time they would be able to do such things together... at least until Christmas.  I'm down to only having 11 days left with Peanut before my folks scoop both of them up and haul them back to Texas to for their vacation together.  I already warned Pokey that I will be a puddle on the 2nd and I wanted him to honor my request to allow me to be a puddle that day for as long as I needed... but only on that day.  If it rolls on for any longer than that, well, it's just not healthy to wallow in it until your fingers get pruney.  One day should suffice.

No 2nd sock syndrome here!

I have been working my second sock in hopes of having it done before they leave.  Most of Peanut's college things will be in the van going back to Texas since my folks will be the ones taking her up to South Dakota in the fall.  Pokey and I really wanted to do it but we couldn't get the right time frame off so my folks offered.  Anyway, I want to finish this second purple sock so that she can pack it in her dorm trunk.  Also, I told myself that if I finished it, I would allow myself to start the hooded scarf so I could have it ready for my first care package I'm sending out after the first week of school is over.  I've got a few items already stashed for her box.

Alrighty, supper is almost ready so I'll post photos when I finish the pair... perhaps I'll have Peanut model them for everyone... lol.  I hope y'all are having a fabulous Saturday too - what have you been up to this beautiful day?

Mauve Mix

Mauve Mix in 1 ply Merino Wool by sandrasingh.com

Wow - Sandra Singh really knows how to do up a giveaway, let me tell you.  I found out that I won a set of four patterns plus three skeins of her gorgeous 1 ply merino wool this past Sunday.  I am pleased to say that my winnings arrived yesterday in the post!

The wool is absolutely scrumptious - a $35 value that is worth every single penny.  The colorway is breathtakingly beautiful.  The way that it slides from a cranberry to a mauve to a soft pink and back again is just magnificent.

Don't you just love this little sheep on her label?

The patterns are challenging but not overwhelming.  Lisa Ellis Designs writes an easy to follow pattern with what will (hopefully) be gorgeous results.  I can not wait to sit down once the girls have gone on to visit my folks and tuck into this pattern.  It is going to be something that I know Peanut will treasure.

I implore all of you to please take a moment and wander around the links because trust me, once you have made these discoveries you will wonder how in the world you survived without knowing for so long.  Thank you Miss Sandra... thank you so much!

All Done... Well, Almost

One of her Senior shots I took

Today was Peanut's Senior "check out" day.  We managed to get everything checked off and buttoned up.  She also received her cap and gown, which is hanging in her room - wishing with all we have that the majority of the creases fall out before I have to iron it on next Thursday night.  There are still a couple of Graduation rehearsals and a Senior Picnic afterwards that need to be attended next week.  I can't believe that my little leprechaun surprise of a baby girl is graduating high school in 9 days.  Wow, time sure does fly.

Hobbit came home with a paper stating that there will be a celebration for her end of term - a Kindergarten graduation of sorts.  It was requested that we bring in cookies but nothing about allergies was listed so I am at a loss as to how to proceed.  I could email Mrs. R and ask but to be honest, I have little faith that she would know. 

My folks - aren't they cute!

My folks are coming in town next Thursday night.  I have been slowly scrubbing every surface of the house.  This is not because we are dirty or messy but more because my mama has always had a bit of a critical eye when it comes to appearances.  I know she isn't trying to be mean and I try to remind myself of that... plus, sometimes I can be a bit too sensitive too so I will remind myself to take everything with a grain of salt.  I love my mama with all of my heart - I just don't want any of the comments that I have heard her say about other people's home made towards mine... so I am cleaning at a feverish pitch.  That being said - I came home from picking up Hobbit from school to find Pokey shampooing the living room carpet for me!  I tell you, a man with a carpet shampooer, working to surprise his neurotic wife, is very sexy indeed.

I just realized that I forgot to get anything out this morning so I guess we'll be doing breakfast for supper - French Toast and Eggs anyone?

Oh my goodness..

Life has been busy... here's a few photos for proof... lol.

Sewing for upcoming events - honors night and graduation for Peanut

Even Ramsay is worn slap out over it all!

But at the end of the day - it's all worth it.

B is for...

Books.  Lots and lots of books.  Stitch dictionaries.  Pattern books.  Novels with bonus patterns inside.  Big books.  Little books.  Lots and lots of books.

I have a cute little collection of knitting books started and I think that I will start checking out estate sales and markets for vintage patterns and books.  My mama found a couple great ones at a craft fair once.  That season doesn't start until October around here but I am going to keep my eyes out for them.

Knitting Library - another WiP for me

So far, I just have this one bottom shelf and I have lofty aspirations of making it the whole bookshelf one day.  There have been a couple snags in my plan.  The first one is that I haven't found a great pattern book in almost a year.  I don't care for what's out there or it's not in my size.  I won't spend money on a book that would require me altering everything.

The second is that the price of these books keeps going up while the quality of the patterns is either stagnant or going down.  There is one designer who seems to be recycling their previously released patterns under new names but nothing has been done to dictate the title "new" to her patterns.  It was rather insulting to see her latest book and have a sneaking suspicion that I have already seen these works - and then validate it by finding them in other volumes.

Lastly, since there seems to be nothing new and what is around is either too garish, slutty or small, I have taken to designing my own knits.  It's a new endeavor and we'll see how well it goes.  I've created little trinkets, bits and bobs... even a few articles for Lil' Chef Ramsay but I've not done something original for me... well, not until I started this shrug.  If it all works out well, who knows, perhaps the next book that will go on my knitting shelf will be my own.

This is a new series started by An Accidental Knitter that I thought would be fun so every Monday, we'll be learning our ABCs together!  Click here for more information or to join in the fun.

Lucky Day!

Lisa Ellis Designs

In the midst of all the craziness for the next week or so, I got a little surprise.  I won a giveaway from Sandra Singh!  Not only did I win a giveaway, I won first prize in her giveaway - the patterns AND 3 skeins of delicious 1 ply Merino Worsted.. which is enough to make the pattern that I am wanting to make!  I was hoping that I would get either Purple Mystery or Amoroso, but instead I learned that I will be receiving Mauve Mix which is even more beautiful than I initially thought.  Any way you look at it - it's a wonderful treat to be sure.  Y'all know I will shoot a picture when it arrives.

Sometimes, life knows when you need a present.

Spinach Alfredo Lasagna with Chicken

So my friend, Trish, makes a white lasagna with spinach that looked delicious.  I asked her for the recipe and made quite a few "convenient" modifications to it for tonight's supper. 

It's currently baking in the oven so I'll share the easy peasy recipe with you now so you can have a really fancy and expensive looking supper that was a snap to make and barely put a dent in your bank account.  Are you ready?  Here we go ~



What you will need to make this fabulous supper for yourself:

• 1 pkg of Ronzoni no bake lasagna noodles
• 2 jars of Classico Alfredo sauce
• 1 pkg of Sargento 6 cheese Italian blend (2 cups)
• 1 pkg of frozen leaf spinach (thawed)
• 4-6 chicken thighs/breasts, browned (optional)

What you will need to do to make this fabulous supper for yourself:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degree F.
2. Spray some non-stick spray on the bottom of your 9x13 dish.
3. Lay down a row of noodles.
4. Ladle sauce over, making sure noodles are completely covered.
5. Layer chicken, spinach and cheese.
6. Lay down second row of noodles.
7. Ladle sauce over, making sure noodles are completely covered.
8. Layer chicken, spinach and cheese.
9. Cover with remaining sauce (incremental and could be skipped) and cheese (a must).
10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Check and remove cover, baking for 15-20 minutes more.
12. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

I can't wait until this comes out and is ready to go - it already smells fantastic in here!

A is for...

Adventure!

Every new stitch, pattern or endeavor is an adventure with knitting.  The amazing fact a couple of sticks a bit of string can create such wonderful masterpieces is awe inspiring.  From your first dishcloth to your first sweater to your first original design, knitting can take you places that you never thought possible.

A is definitely for adventure.

This is a new series started by An Accidental Knitter that I thought would be fun so every Monday, we'll be learning our ABCs together!  Click here for more information or to join in the fun.

Ten on Tuesday - Boogie Shoes Edition

My goodness, this is two weeks in a row that Carole has asked for something that I know nothing about... this time, it's Big Parties.  I don't throw big parties.  I don't go to big parties.  I am the antithesis of a party animal or socialite... so how am I supposed to write a top ten list on this subject?  Well, you know me - unconventional or not... I'll give it a go ~

1. Know people.  Sounds simple right, it is... but I don't know anyone around here so big parties consist of the kids and us throwing down a mad night of Wii bowling with a buffet of snacks... oh yeah, we bad.
2. Enjoy people.  Another thing that you would think would be simple to remedy but it actually isn't... you see, Pokey and I don't generally like "people".  We like individuals but people, not so much.
3. Something to celebrate.  Now we do celebrate... lots of things actually.  From the regular birthdays and graduations all the way to the fact that it's simply Tuesday.  It doesn't have to be a good reason, just a reason.
4. Theme.  I don't know why I believe that parties should have a theme, they just do so go with it.
5. Good food.  If you're going to celebrate then you better eat, and eat well... I'm just saying.
6. Games galore.  I think everyone who shows up should be forced to wear ridiculous hats at the very least and play immature games so others can laugh at them.. I mean with them.  It's all in good fun.
7. Presents.  It's a party, presents should always be involved whenever possible.
8. Goodie bags.  Everyone loves a good goodie bag, no matter how old they are, so be sure to have them with every gathering.
9. Back up plan.  As you can see, my party throwing skills are severely lacking so it's always good to have a back up plan, just in case it turns out as horribly as you predict.
10. Clean up crew.  If I have gone to all the trouble to throw the big party, I don't want to have to clean up after it.. I'm probably tired at this point and less then sociable.  It's best to have someone else clean it up or else there will be grumbling and mumbling which could turn very ugly, very quickly.

Yeah, I know nothing about throwing big parties.  I don't throw them and I don't attend them.  I have no knowledge of the subject and don't plan on acquiring any, any time soon.  I sure hope that next week Carole gives me something that I have a clue about... or at least it's easier to poke a bit of fun at instead.

One More Monday

That is all Peanut has of school.  Just one more Monday, and at that it is only be "checked out" of the school - turn in books, clean out lockers, get cap & gown.  I can't believe it... just one more Monday.

Most of my friends have children who are closer in age to Hobbit than Peanut so they have all been wondering if I'm a mess and how am I handling it.  I'm doing alright.  I'm not a mess because I'm not sad.  I've been thinking about this all year... shoot, since last year really.  I raised her to be an independent person with the faith and conviction that she can do anything she sets her mind to... and I'll be danged if she didn't turn out just like that - so how can I be sad?

Someone asked me if it was bittersweet too.  I don't feel that either, to be honest.  I have no elation tinged with heartbreak.  I know many mothers who weep over every milestone - not because of joy over the accomplishment but because of sorrow over the growth.  That, to me, is the completely wrong mindset.  I cheered every one - both big and small - because it meant that she was growing up... the exact same reason so many of the mothers I know get upset. 

I do the same with Hobbit when she reaches them as well.  I encourage them and support them and sometimes, I even push them... because I know they can do it.  I want them to be able to do it.  More importantly, I want them to be able to do it and not look back because of apprehension but charge forward because of confidence.

So yes, Peanut has one more Monday of high school - a fact that she herself did not realize until I told her this morning - then we will cheer on the next milestone because my baby has grown up... and grown up well.

In Honor Of Mother's Day

1. My mother taught me to APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE .
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside.. I just finished cleaning."

2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet.."

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
"Because I said so, that's why."

5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC .
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."

6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

7. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

8. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS .
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

9. My mother taught me about CONTORTION-ISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.."

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

16. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to get stuck that way."

19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"

20. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT .
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

And my favorite:

25. My mother taught me about JUSTICE .
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"

*No idea where this came from but it was funny so I copied it here.  If anyone knows, please share so I can give proper credit - just know, it's not my original thought.

Sunday Snaps

My present from Hobbit that I received on Friday

Yesterday I made a tag for my knitting bag

My Mother's Day morning - cards and a new tripod!

It sang to me - Hey there, Hi there, Ho there!

Therapeutic Recovery

Progress was made in many ways last night

"Applied for health reasons""the process of regaining possession or control of something lost or stolen".  That is what Ramsay and I did last night.  We had a bit of 'therapeutic recovery'... we needed it... and I think it worked.

After our horrific afternoon full of tears, we spent that evening sitting in our chair together.  He was curled in his spot, I was in mine.  We watched a bit of our favorite chef and spent some time in Stars Hollow... all the while, knitting and rebonding.

I used to spend the evenings knitting in my chair with him on my lap or snuggled in nicely by my side.  It didn't matter where I was, I was somewhere where he could snuggle up and melt away into la la land.  Lately, I've been processing photos or running around or cleaning or fussing at children or playing a game with Pokey... there has been a severe lack of Ramsay/Mama time.  I have squeezed my knitting time into the car pick-up lines at the girls' schools.  Let's face it, it's practically three hours of my daily life where I am forced to be sitting so I might as well knit... or read - currently I am diving into American Wife but it's too early to tell if I'm enjoying it or not... morbid curiosity keeps me reading though.

Anywho, last night I thought that I would sit down with my puppy and knit.  Part of the reason I wanted a small breed dog was because I wanted someone to sit and knit with - and Ramsay fit the bill.  He has always been "my dog".  From the moment I found him in the 'stale puppy' section, we knew we were meant to be together.  He has been my first fur baby that was truly 'mine' and not a family pet... and that is what I wanted.  He snuggles in and will sleep with me if I lay down on the sofa.  He will snuggle in and sit with me while I knit or read or watch a movie.  He isn't pushy and he doesn't ask for much... just to be near me.

You see, I think that is what I forgot with all the craziness in getting through graduation and such lately.  I forgot that fur babies need some Mama time too.  So through the course of two hours, I managed to repair my relationship with Ramsay - and repair my shrug design test knit.  All in all, I would say that it was a definite success... for all involved.

Heven Help Him... He's Gonna Need It

He did it again.  I can't believe that he would do it again, but he surely did.  20 minutes.  That's all I was gone for and he managed to ruin it in no time flat.  In my head, the scene played where he waited for the door to lock, snuck over to the window to watch my car drive away and then WHAM!

"That foolish girl" was probably what he was thinking as he let out an evil puppy giggle.  "She thought that because I have been so good this morning that it would be alright to leave me out of my crate for a short bit while she and Daddy go to get his car.  My plan worked... and now, come to me, my precious."  Slowly, he creeps over to the soft buttery leather bag in the most appealing of cotton candy pinks.  Nudging it with his nose, whoops - it falls to the ground.  "Well now, since it's on the floor, it must be for me.  Right?  *Bwahaha."

Sadly, he was wrong.  He didn't realize this until I returned home... and then, he had no doubt.  The question I ask is why?  Every time he does this, he gets punished.  He knows he has done wrong because he will fold his ears back and squint his eyes closed... sort of like "if I can't see you or hear you, then it's not happening" kind of thing.  The curl in his tail falls out and the smile (yes, he does usually hold a smile) fades away.  Sometimes, he'll throw in a shake for good measure.

He understands that he has done wrong, and yet he continues to be a repeat offender.  I don't know what else to do.  I love him.  I do.  I hate his mischievous, sneaky behavior.  I despise that he knows it is wrong and will do it anyway.  I abhor the fact that I can't trust him.

It's a good thing he's cute because some days, that face and funky tail with it's awkward wag is the only thing that saves him.  I'll be glad when we no longer have a 'puppy' in this house... I don't like 'puppy'.

*In case you are lost, Ramsay knocked over my pink knitting bag and tore apart my new yarn that I was using to work up my original design shrug test knit - along with my actual test knit.  It was all over the floor from my chair where I knit all over the living room... it was as if he was living out the title of Bilbo's book - "There and Back Again".

Sleep Deprivation Randomness

Between Pokey's new schedule adjustment and Hobbit's first ever screaming nightmare that actually scared the stuffing out of me and Pokey, I am completely sleep deprived today.  Pokey is currently napping on the sofa and I don't have the heart to move him.  Hobbit is having an apple and peanut butter for breakfast - yes, she's home because waking up at 2 a.m. and crying over the scariness of her dream which had sleep eluding her for about 2 hours gives one the sympathy vote to sleep in instead of being schlept off to school with only half the amount of sleep she normally gets.  What can I say - I'm a softy.

Random things keep running through my mind and I've got little lists running around my house.  Yes, that was multiple because I keep misplacing my original list.  The items aren't earth shattering, they are just things I need to remember to do which I seem to forget until it's a bit late in the game.  Here is a snippet:

• Make menus and work out grocery list
• Dust, vacuum and mop downstairs
• Laundry - darks and sheets
• Actually do the grocery shopping - sans monsters if possible
• Work on test knit shrug so it can be completed before graduation
• Work on socks as car line pick up project
• Find time to figure out a work out plan - starting to look like Grandma
• Shop around for a place to have Pokey's brakes looked at - they make an awful noise
• Learn to make homemade bread and actually make it this time

Yeah, lately I have had to write down simple things like knitting.  I don't like it when life gets so busy that I have to schedule or remind myself to do something relaxing.  I forgot to write down that I need to sew my dress pattern this weekend too... shoot.

Sleep deprivation seems to only effect me though - proof is in the gentle snoring coming from the living room (both sofa and floor - gotta love dogs who snore) and from the back room... oh well, it's in the job description, right?

Ten on Tuesday - Aviary Edition

Perhaps Ben was right?

This week, Carole has asked us to go on about our top ten favorite birds.  This one is difficult for me because I am ignorant on the subject of birds.  There are a few of the typical types that remind me of people, such as cardinals will always remind me of my Nana, but other than that, I am at a loss.  I don't know names and I'm not a big bird watcher.  I may photograph them but I have no clue who they are or anything else... and really, I have no desire to know.  So here is my take on today's aviary edition of the Ten on Tuesday...

1. Free Bird - what can I say.  You can take the girl out of Alabama but you can't take the Bama out of the girl.
2. Big Bird - Who doesn't love a super huge 8 ft. tall yellow feathered toddler?
3. Blackbird - again, what can I say.
4. Birdman of Alcatraz - if you haven't seen it, remedy it... it's awesome.
5. "Flipping the Bird" - now generally, I wouldn't list this but you have to see my mama do it.. it's funny.  She makes a little face to go with it and she barely lifts her finger... truly classic.
6. Turkey - okay, so I was able to think of an actual bird.  I love turkeys - and I love the fact that they were almost our national bird.. we should have something so delicious as a state symbol.
7. Cuckoo - but not in the traditional sense... more like the clock really.  I love a good cuckoo clock.
8. The Partridge Family birds - I used to love to watch those multi-colored beauties wander around the screen in all the technicolor glory.
9. Hedwig - because who wouldn't want a beautiful snow white owl.
10. Surfin' Bird - this song changed the face of music back in 1963, and I apologize in advance because I know it's going to get stuck in your head too.  I've been humming it the whole time I wrote this list!

So there is my version of the Top Ten Birds... probably not what Carole expected at all but then again, this is me we are talking about so who is really surprised.

Snippety Snip Snip

I did it.  I got brave.  I sat down and said "today is the day" and by cracky, it was!  I cut out my dress for Peanut's graduation.  I was nervous... I mean, if I mess this up then I'm going to be in one serious pickle.  I want to wear something pretty and today's fashions are not pretty - shoot, they aren't even feminine!

Y'all should know with me - everything is a photo op!

So after I cut out my pattern, I noticed that I had about a yard left over.  That is the perfect amount for a Hobbit skirt!  Then I noticed the odds and ends from my pattern cutting.  That would make a great addition to my mama's quilt material stash!

After those two discoveries, I felt very frugal indeed.  You see, my material was on sale - it helped to ease my fear knowing that I was using "stale" material that was discounted.  This means that for a whopping $19 I am going to have a dress for me, a skirt for Hobbit and be part of a quilt by my mama.  I think that is money well spent.

I Honestly Don't Understand

So I have a friend who is a very liberal in her view points.  We talk and even though there is a great age gap between us (she's old enough to be my mama), we enjoy one another's company... that is, until last night apparently.

News of this whole bin Laden situation seems to have torn a rift between us.  I made a comment that she did not agree with, which resulted in her uttering how disappointed she was in me and had lost a bit of respect for me.

Wow - all because I hold a different view?  I will never lose respect for someone because they have a different opinion or view of a situation from me.  Most times, depending on their ability to uphold or present their position, I gain a bit of respect and insight.  I appreciate different points of view - and I appreciate those who question.

So because I do not hold the celebratory stance on the events of last night, someone has lost respect for me... because I questioned, someone is disappointed in me.  I don't mean to be purposefully ignorant, but I honestly don't understand how a person can say such things based on a difference of opinion.

Since when did that equate to respect or approval from others is won or lost?

Craftiness Galore

I managed to complete all my chores yesterday so that I could spend today being crafty.  I want to cut out my dress pattern and perhaps start on the sewing.  I want to knit on my original design shrug to go with my dress.  I would like to knock out a few rows on my faux circle sweater and my other sock.  I want to bake but I'm toying with letting the kids do it.  I want to dive into it all - and yet, I've not done it.  I've been sitting here.  I played around a bit in Middle Earth, I checked in on my "mommy forums" and I finagled on Facebook.  I have yet to do one crafty thing - why?

I slept in this morning until just after 9 a.m. because Pokey is on his new work schedule which means that we don't need to set an alarm on the weekend.  Oh, he still has to work but his schedule is noon until 8:30 p.m. so we can get up when we like instead of always at 6 a.m. every day of the week.  My days are going to be complete opposites of his soon.  He will be getting home around the same time I am usually ready to go to bed - and with me having to get up and take Peanut to school at 6:30 a.m. now, I will surely be exhausted by the time he rolls in the door around 9:45 p.m. every night.  I can try to stay up on Friday and Saturday nights but generally speaking, I am only good until 10 p.m. most nights.

Aging knitting projects that are begging to be worked

Last night was a prime example as to why I'm dragging tail today - we were up until 1 a.m. because he just "wasn't tired yet" and I knew I didn't have to go anywhere today so I kept him company.  I am hating life this morning though because I feel as though I need a nap and it's only noon!  I don't do well with constantly changing sleep schedules.  I require a minimum of eight hours - ten is my most favorite amount but I realize that it's not always possible.  This summer when the kids are off schedule, I am sure we will fall into a rhythm but for right now, I'm off kilter a bit.

So how do I fix it?  First, I'm going to get off of this computer and go get a shower.  Second, I'm going to run to the store to get some sugar to finish making the tea and perhaps get something special for the girls for lunch - maybe a nice frozen pizza for us to split.  Third, I'm going to start my crafty day by cutting out my dress and then moving wherever I want to next.  Sometimes, in order to get in the mood of the day, you have to force yourself into position... which is exactly what I am going to do.

Look out crafts, here I come!