Kathleen Knits

2012-01-03T10:16:00.004-05:00

So, uh...more than a year has passed since I last updated. Well, let's put this bluntly, 2011 was a totally shitty year! Now most people reading this, probably know why 2011 was so crappy, but for any of you who don't know, here are the specifics:
My beautiful sister died July 25th, I got sick and was in and out of the hospital for three weeks, and my wonderful mother in law died in late September. (I keep thinking of that line in the movie "Arthur" when the prostitute Arthur picks up says "my mother died when I was 6 and my father raped me when I was 12", and Arthur's response was "so..you had a relatively good 6 years then"...I guess I had a relatively good 6 months last year...(you gotta laugh).

This is the second time I have lost a sister. My sister Bridget died in 2002 of an accidental drug overdose. Bridget was a gentle but troubled soul. She was diagnosed in her early twenties with Crohn's disease. She had a particularly bad case and had several abdominal surgeries to combat it. She suffered from alcoholism and eventually drug addiction as well. She was sober for awhile, and did get married to (at the time) a wonderful man who unbeknownst to us had demons of his own to battle. When Bridget died, it was almost unbelievable...there was no warning, no early diagnoses of a possible life threatening disease. We knew she suffered and we prayed she would get better. Maybe our prayers were answered, just not in the way we would have liked. Its funny, but I find myself thinking about her more and more as the years go by: what would she have been like? Would she have ever had children? Would she have ever beaten the alcoholism that haunted her? I know she loved my kids. I know that she would have been proud of them. I think about my mom. What that must have been like for her to see Bridget lying in bed, dead. As a mother myself, I do not want to go there, but I imagine that your whole world falls away. To have to then, bury a second child, it seems almost cruel. Erin was diagnosed with breast cancer 4.5 years ago. I will never forget her telling me just after diagnoses that "this will kill me". I remember saying to her that no...it won't. We will have to fight it. Erin was always very pragmatic in the face of her disease. Oh, she was sad and oh, did she fight, but I think that somewhere in the back of her mind was the realization that her life would be cut short. Oh, trust me, this is no freaking Lifetime movie, there was no garage full of gifts for Nora's future birthdays and Christmases. There was no individually addressed letters to all of her loved ones...there was just one letter, beautifully written and heartbreakingly real. She wrote this letter to her daughter on a small manila steno pad, you know the old fashioned kind, people used to have for jotting down small notes. In it, she allows her emotionally steam of conscientiousness to take over and she lets go in writing what she really never did in life. Towards the end of Erin's illness, it was difficult. I believe that there were probably metastases to her brain and that she was affected by this; she used to accuse us of hiding her medicine. Ironically she was right, but we only did this to prevent her from taking too much. Up to the very end, she fought...a few days before she died, she told me she needed a ride to her next chemotherapy session. I knew, but didn't say, that there would be no more chemo. Honesty at this time would be self serving. I will never forget her last words to me...nothing profound, no last word of advice, just a simple "hey, thanks for coming today..." She slipped into a coma and died two days later. Nora, Ted, all of my sisters and my mother were there for the duration. It was surreal in many ways. I miss her every day. Its funny but towards the end, you start to pray that God shows some mercy and takes her. I mean, I'm not saying we prayed that she would die, but if she wasn't going to get well and be the Erin we knew, then please take her to a place where she can be that person. Take her away from her pain. I'm not an expert on grief...who the hell would want that title?! But I know that it comes and goes and that what you mourn is the loss of that vibrant personality..that big laugh...the honesty and integrity she brought to your life. I hear her voice in my head all the time...saying..."Ruttum...knock it off...stop your crying...get on with it".

Which leads me to the death of my mother in law. Like my sister, Jeanie was taken too soon, although unlike my sister, she had the opportunity to raise her children and see them all happily married with children of their own. Oh, how she loved her grandchildren. I had the honor of producing the first three Ruttum "heirs"...I still remember her coming here after our first daughter was born...oh she loved that little girl. She used to walk her around and comment on the fact that "she is so smart, look at how her eyes follow the light..." This theory that she (Mary) was so smart was further cemented when she bought her that tupperware game...you know the one, with the shapes that you put into the ball. Oh, she was amazed that Mary could complete that game so quickly. And yes, my mother in law was correct in her assessment of my first born. She is currently a jet pilot for the Navy...still looking into the light.
Sadly, Jeanie was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at a younger than normal age. For her, it really affected her ability to perform certain tasks; she would stand in front of a faucet and not know how to turn it on. Her memory for people and events did not diminish though and my memories of her will always be of that HUGE smile and that warm laugh and the way she loved to go out shopping and out to dinner. After she died, I put together a slide show presentation of her life. I came across a photo I had taken a few years back, before Erin was diagnosed. It was at Mary's high school graduation party, and we were having such a wonderful time. I will leave you with that photo. And thank you for stopping by to visit. Here's to a better 2012.

2010-10-12T11:04:00.003-04:00

A pictorial update:
Delia's 16th:
Mickey's 8th grade graduation:

Delia's Confirmation:

USNA, Class of 2010

Mary's Commissioning:

John's 21st birthday:

And there is more of course...alot happens when you aren't paying attention. I'll try to update more frequently. SO much to tell you. Knitting, theater, etc. wow.

2010-05-07T15:31:00.003-04:00

Long time...no hear...here's what I've been up to:

Navy Women's Lacrosse wins the Patriot League Championship!
It was a great weekend in Bethlehem, PA.

2010-02-05T09:31:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I'm sitting here waiting for the snow. Not just any snow, but THE snow, the one, the Blizzard of 2010. You know its bad when even the meteorologists won't tell you how much we are going to get. Now my sister-in-law lives in Steamboat Springs and she always laughs at us when I tell her how crippling it is out here when we get more than 6 inches of snow. Of course, whenever the humidity goes anywhere above 20% out there, they suffer tremendously. So it all depends on what you are used too.

So, I, like EVERYONE IN THE BALTIMORE WASHINGTON area, went to the store yesterday. I needed to go anyway and was thinking "gosh, there are alot of people out today." Then I remembered about THE storm. There was a man buying (no lie) 10 gallons of milk. REALLY!? 10 gallons. I mean yes, they are using words like "power outages, and no one leave your homes, and near white out conditions", but 10 gallons?

Well despite the imminent snow, Navy Women's Lacrosse is having its season opener today at noon. It was supposed to be tomorrow, but with the aforementioned storm, they have moved it up a day. Should be nice and balmy up at the stadium...NOT!

Anyway, I will post some pictures of the storm.

2010-01-28T14:54:00.002-05:00

Mary and Dane...drunk at the Double T. Yep, I took this picture to mark this momenteous occasion. We had been to a birthday party earlier in the night, and were invited to celebrate with a friend of Mary's who was turning 21. We closed Pussers! I mean, really, when was the last time I was at a bar until 2 am?! I was the designated driver and was driving home when these two clowns informed me that we were going to the Double T Diner. Now, let me tell you, this diner is a pretty interesting place at 2 am. Mary was hysterical making fun of this group of girls who were asking such questions as "hummm, can I get a half of a banana". Good times.

I made this today. A lunch bag. Its sewn from heavy duty cotton canvas. I cut out two rectangles 10inches x 13 inches and then ironed on the embroidery transfers. I used Jenny Hart's of Sublime Stitching fame, design. The person who I made this for is a sweets fanatic. You can see the close up of the cake and the silverware. I used whatever floss I had; the idea was to create a project that made use of what I already had laying around. I am thinking this would be good to teach to the kids; they can get very creative with the embroidery, etc. And, its re-usable!
I sure hope the person I made it for will like it. I am thinking of making one with the Saints insignia. Cool, yes or no?

2010-01-14T08:54:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year. I have much to update and will get to that in the coming days. Here are a few pictures of what's been going on. Check out the pipes! This is a small sampling of the pipes at the United States Naval Academy's Chapel pipe organ. A friend of mine was in town and was able to play this gorgeous thing...you shoulda heard it.
I have also been knitting! I think I've made this hat 5 or six times..For my god daughter...

For my daughter. A late Christmas present, but it was done before the vacation was over, so that's ok, right.
Here's what 2010 will bring:
Mary's graduation from the USNA
Dane's 50th birthday
Our 24th Wedding anniversary
Delia's sweet 16
Mickey's 14th
John's 21st

Here's what I hope and pray 2010 brings:
A swift cure for breast cancer
An end to the suffering of those close to me
Peace in those areas of the world where it is most needed
To push myself to be a better person.

Oh, and one last thing, today would have been my sister Bridget's 44th birthday. It is still very strange for me to think about that and to comprehend that she has been gone for 7 years. I know that today is going to be hard for my parents; it always is. I think that for parents, the mourning is never over; its like in the play "Rabbit Hole" when the mom describes what its like to lose a child; "its like having a rock in your pocket...as the days go by, you sometimes forget its there, but then you put your hand in and say..yep, there it is, and after some time, you don't want it to leave; it becomes a part of you, like an arm or a leg".

Now, about the ravelympics?!

2009-12-26T17:31:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2009-08-11T09:51:00.007-04:00

So...here's a sampler of what I've been doing on my summer vacation.
First a summer sweater knit from Rowan's Lenpur Linen, from a pattern in the Summer 2009 Debbie Bliss magazine.

Then two dresses for beautiful baby Shannon...

Then some purses for my sister.
and my daughter..
and another sister..
and a football knit hat for a new baby in the neighborhood...

I have re-discovered my sewing machine and am enjoying using it to make all these wonderful things. It's instant gratification for the creative soul.

2009-04-20T10:06:00.003-04:00

Footprints...
Well, we are off to Houston today...headed to M.D. Anderson with beautiful sister to see the amazing doctors there. Sissy (real name withheld, per her request)...will be talking to several doctors there regarding treatment options. Her cancer, like other Sissy has also metastasized. I know, unbelievable, huh. So, hug your loved ones dear bloggers. Tell them you love them everyday.

2009-03-19T13:48:00.002-04:00

FINISHED HAT! From the book "Hats On". The yarn is Cascade Venezia worsted which is a 70% merino wool and 30% silk. It is gorgeous to work with...incredibly soft with a touch of sheen. The color combination is a bit unusual...but she loves it. (She is my daughter).
This is the top of the hat. The decreases are a bit confusing, you know how in patterns where they write a decrease but in the graph it still only counts as one stitch...ok, I don't think I am explaining that correctly. I mean that when it says to decrease, the next graphed stitch is actually part of the decrease, so when the graph says...K, K, SSK, K, K..the way it read with the yarn was: K, K, SSK, K
Does that make sense? Anyway, I just followed my gut and I think it turned out beautifully.
I knitted her initials into it...pretty cool, huh? I wish I could take credit for the idea of the knitted initials, but alas, I cannot.
The best part about finishing a project is the satisfaction of a job well done, oh, and the EXCITEMENT about the next new project!

2009-03-09T13:48:00.002-04:00

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A WEEK MAKES! How is it possible that one week ago, I was taking video of a snow storm from my front porch. And now here I am in shorts...check out those legs, huh...yikes. Probably need some sun there.
Nature's signs that spring is coming closer...
This is the tree in my neighbor's yard..I always called it a tulip magnolia, but I don't think that is the proper name. It is gorgeous when it is in bloom. A real show stopper.

My one attempt at gardening years ago, and they still come up. Iris is a hardy plant. At least these are. I wish I was more into gardening...I mean, don't get me wrong, I love the look, but I really don't enjoy being out there doing it. Can't I just sit and knit while you all do all the work?

2009-03-03T09:53:00.002-05:00

Snow storm, Day 2: the trees are beautiful!
You want me to do what?! Shovel? But Mom its cold out here!
Aren't icicles the coolest?! All day long as I sit in my home office, I hear them creaking and the water dripping and I just wait for one to fall, and honestly it makes me sad when they do.

Don't let the beautiful sunshine fool you. Its 18 freaking degrees out today. Wanna sit a spell? I keep thinking we should get everyone outside for a picture for next year's Christmas card, because we usually never have snow before Christmas. Sounds like a good idea in theory, but the application might be difficult. Well, stay warm friends.

2009-03-02T08:47:00.003-05:00

Just when I thought it was safe to go outside....look what happened:

March 2, 2008...Can you believe it. I did not even know they were calling for snow like this, here in Maryland?! Makes me want to make a big pot of soup, make bread and start a new project! I know I shouldn't as I have stated that I want to finish all the unfinished business, but for some reason I want to start something new. So there...
Stay warm and cozy everyone.

2009-02-25T10:34:00.002-05:00

Am ready for this..
and some of this...
and some of this!
I know, its only February 25th, but still I am wishing that spring would arrive. We never really had any significant snowfall, so ok, time for warmer weather.

Ash Wednesday folks...a time for those Christians to re-evaluate things and use the next few weeks trying to better ourselves. Some of us give up certain things, like drinking or sweets. Other people feel that "giving up" something doesn't really help them spiritually and they are in the group that is pro-active; these folks DO something additional...maybe its an extra prayer every day, or going to Church more than once a week, or making a concerted effort to help a neighbor. Whichever method suits you, I wish you all a blessed Lent, filled with quiet, peace and new discoveries.

2009-02-13T14:25:00.002-05:00

Happy almost St. Valentine's Day! I hope all is well with everyone. As usual, my week was chock full of, hum, let's see: 7th grade science fair, Navy Women's lacrosse (season opener tonight!), play rehearsal, work, grocery store, and of course most important, Knitting! I finished two different hats and in my excitement to get them to their owners, I neglected to take a picture...worthless, I am completely worthless.

Jayne..thanks for the comments. I LOVE AMY SINGER! I have several of her patterns. Can you send me the link to that yarn shop? Maybe I can get some of my "yarnies" to come up there!

2009-02-06T10:33:00.005-05:00

So what happens when a quilter crosses over to become a knitter....ALOT OF UNFINISHED PROJECTS. These beautiful things get stuffed in trunks, in drawers, anywhere really, never to be heard from again, until one day you think...hummm, where is that applique quilt I started 10 years ago, and you go looking for it. And you find it, and you pull it out and you think "wow, this is really beautiful, why did I stop working on it?" You mull over the fact that quite possibly you have adult A.D.D. You admire the unfinished project, you take pictures of it to post on your blog...anxiously awaiting any cyber-validation you may receive..."oh you should finish" or "look at beautiful". And then what do you do? Well, you stuff it all back into the trunk, the drawers, etc. until the next time you decide to take a trip down unfinished business memory lane. Its all very Zen I tell you.
I remember the teacher (this was done in a Baltimore applique class) criticizing my choice of purple and green as a color combination...I loved it then, and I love it now. So there!

The next few are from an Anniversary quilt of the month I did...it is all done by hand and I love the colors. I really should finish this one.

A kaleidescope quilt...all paper piecing. Each block has about 96-100 individual pieces in it...yeah, I know. I got this at a wonderful quilt shop in Hays, Kansas while on a cross country trip back in 1998!

Anyway, I got a great email from Kay of Mason Dixon knitting (love them!) and it prompted me to go on this little treasure hunt. Wonder what tomorrow will bring.

2009-02-02T09:50:00.002-05:00

Some finished objects:
An angora and cashmere baby bonnet. Knit "old school" style...for my sister's neighbor. I didn't even know her, but took advantage of an opportunity to try my hand at this hat. It is just gorgeous. The pink accents are crochet chains formed into flower petals.
Another pic:
Our school insignia is the fleur de lis. I knit this on the Florida trip. I kinda made it up as I went along. The fleur de lis was knit separate in one piece then appliqued on. This was knit with Misti Aplaca.

2009-01-28T10:15:00.003-05:00

A trip to Florida after Christmas:
Well, what do you do on a log car ride?
January First...and I had a sunburn!
A little birdie told me that I haven't posted for a while...I know, wow, 7 months. That is like eternity in the blog world. I have been busy and got sucked into the wonderful world that is Ravelry!

10 updates:

1. started a knitting group with some neat ladies (all have kids that go to school together)
2. have actually finished several knitted items
3. "inherited" a ton of yarn stash and needles...incredible stuff
4. sent my second child off to college!
5. my third child started high school
6. have stopped opening my 401K statements
7. had a birthday...January 1st
8. am enjoying a snow/ice day right now
9. wondering why I can't just open my own yarn shop
10. always wishing I was knitting

2008-06-25T16:46:00.005-04:00

Summer 2008, and welcome to the new porch. We love it out here and as opposed to the back porch, we are able to visit with our neighbors much more than before! All of the wicker you see here comes to me second hand. Much of it quite literally from the side of the road...people throwing it out. I would stop the car, much to my kids chagrin and take it home. A coat of paint and some new cushions and viola...

And on the knitting front:

A dress for niece Shannon, from Debbie Bliss's book.

Some really new yarn...100% organic cotton...So good, I bought it in two colors. Well, can you really say "colors" if its natural???

Some kettle dyed Aracunia...gorgeous I tell ya. Oh, yeah, AND I'm knitting two socks at once on 1 circular needle...the yarn is Lang, I think, and the colorway is Beach. Perfect for this time of year.

The pattern is from this book....a great book if you ask me. It really shows you how to do this.One of my sisters' FO's. I had to repair a small hole for her. It is beautiful cotton. Just perfect for the summer.

So, a quick update on the family: We had PROM

Mothers of the 13 year kids (our school goes from Kindergarten through 12th) Luncheon Graduation....YES, our speaker was Tim Russert. This was just a few short weeks before his tragic passing. He gave a tremendous address and we all felt so sad upon hearing of his death...we all, the class of 2008 and families, felt we knew him. God Bless him.

Then it was onto 8th grade graduation...here is the beautiful girl with her dad and I.
And then our oldest turned 20!! How did that happen.
Then we had a visit from our nephew, his wife and their kids. Here is the baby, Natalie Rose, outside on my back porch...a total fluke shot, but it turned out great.
Graduation parties!

All this, whew...I'm tired. Here's to you all...have a great summer. I will post again soon, I promise.

2008-04-24T00:46:00.003-04:00

Cool fair isle hat I made for my daughter...how many hats is this? I think five for her. I used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino...what a great yarn.
The new front porch:

The front porch completely finished....new window. Old wicker..ready to sit and knit a spell?
Long time, no hear....busy busy busy. Some photos for you.

2007-12-26T20:19:00.000-05:00

What did I want for Christmas?? A NEW BATHROOM! Before:

After: the room was completely gutted. We left all the plumbing the same...tried to save some money that way. I designed it myself..colors, tiles, etc. I am rather pleased with the results.
Before: (I must tell you that it is embarrassing looking at these photos and realizing how long we lived with the bathroom looking like this....yuck!)
After: do you think that in 30 years someone will look at this and go: "what were they thinking?!"
Christmas was wonderful. I got an Iphone!! Thank goodness my daughter is home from college so that she can show me how to use it. I also have a new mac book which is very user friendly and much better and quicker than my old laptop. I hope you all are wonderful and are enjoying these slower paced post-Christmas days!

2007-12-10T11:19:00.000-05:00

We now interrupt your regularly scheduled blog for some home repair. Ok, so two important things have happened recently: our upstairs bathroom is FINALLY being re-done and my purse was stolen from my kitchen countertop early yesterday morning...yep...thief cut right through the screen...took it. Of course it had everything in it...my wallet, my cell phone, my ipod, my palm pilot....everything! I called the police and they came but they really didn't help at all....other than taking the report and giving me the phone number to call the local pawn shops. So today is busy with the business of re-loading everything...trip to MVA, trip to the Social security admin., bank, etc. UGH....

I will post some pictures of the before and after bathroom...soon, I promise.

2007-11-09T14:58:00.000-05:00

Question of the day:

If a blogger doesn't post for a few weeks, is it still a blog?

That's your meditation for the day. Think on it, and it will give me time to come up with a good enough excuse as to why I have not been posting for awhile. Anyway, I finally was invited to join Ravelry. It is wonderful but it really is a black hole where you get sucked into for hours and a typical day goes from "I am going to sit here with my coffee and check out what others are doing with this Cascade 220" to "dinner!?, what dinner?!..fend for yourself....I'm on a roll here".
You get it. The creators of this website have done something extraordinary...its a huge cyber-knitting circle. You can share your WIP's, your finished projects...questions...they have groups set up so you can find other knitters in your area...and so on and so on. Be patient when you sign up as it took a couple of months for me to get my invite to officially join.

I have been knitting...alot. I have finished two additional pairs of socks. A ski hat for a friend of my daughter's, other Christmas gifts which I cannot mention as I don't want to spoil the surprise.

Is it me, or have the Christmas ads started even earlier this year. Wow, I couldn't believe it....but I have to be honest...I LOVE Christmas....I love the music, the shopping, the baking, the stupid Christmas romantic movies...I love it all. So, looking on the bright side, I get to spend more time doing stuff that I enjoy...baking, etc.

Also, I have decided that my new favorite show on tv (and trust me, I watch ALOT of tv--what did I do without DVR), is Paula Deen on HD. My husband and family love it as well and we typically watch it together deciding which of her dishes we want to make. I just found out that she will be in DC later this month....wouldn't it be fun to meet her.

Ok...I will post pictures as asap. Kisses everyone.

2007-09-14T00:45:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I just finished re-reading my own post, and I cannot tell you how distressed I am about the number of spelling errors. Its bad, I tell ya. Sr. Eileen would be very upset with me....she always told me to watch out for those "typewriter gremlins". So, please forgive me, and know that I am much smarter than that post would have you realize. Peace.

2007-09-13T10:39:00.000-04:00

Again, I apologize for the delay in posting....but much has been happenning.
First things first....I finished the POMATOMUS socks!! Here they are in all their glory.....Like another blogger friend, they are not exactly the same size...but nothing that a little blocking can't fix.

They really are quite beautiful and will look great peeking out from under my jeans. I did the first sock entirely with two circs, but I did the second sock with my Lantern Moon sox stixs--something about not having all that dangling stuff...just felt better.

Went to New York City with my sisters. Here we are at Tavern on the Green having brunch. That place is gorgeous. We were all a little tired, after staying up VERY late the past two nights. (and I mean seriously late...try 4:30am)...yep.

Dinner at the Tribeca Grill on Saturday. I have to say that I think I order the best dinner...lamb chops..they were perfect. Didn't see Bobby DeNiro, but did sot Jon Stewart walking down the street earlier in the day....didn't get a pic though...we were trying to be cool man. Also, didn't go to any yarn shops while we were there...even though Erin and I both would have liked to. Other than where we had reservations, we pretty much "flew by the seat of our pants" the monkey socks...knit with Lorna's Laces
Rain Forest..a special dye lot that was created for Jimmy Beans Wools. Only 50 skeins were produced. I am using the Lantern Moon Ebony sox stix in a size two. I love this needles..even though they are outrageously expensive. Check out the Jimmy Beans Wool website. They are awesome and their customer service is incredible. They are doing gift bags for the celebs at the Emmys...oh to be a star.
We have another teenager in the house....yep, Delia turned 13! That makes three of them. They are all wonderful though...most of the time...We ate crabs, crabs, crabs. Mary and Craig must of sat there for hours as evidenced by the pile of detritus in front of them...which was probably the second pile as we had an intermission of sorts to clean up prior to the "second shift'. It was a beautiful day...

Which brings me to the Gryffindor hat. This is the "Oh My" yarn which is incredibly soft. I was in my LYS and happened to notice these two colors which quite frankly you don't see often. I quickly grabbed both skeins (one of red, the other of mustard) and knit this hat very quickly one day. She was so excited despite the fact that she says she really is more Ravenclaw than Gryffindor (sorry all you non-HP people out there...if this is boring you). She cannot wait to wear it...but the downside to that is there is about 100 midshipmen who now want a hat........better get started.

Ok, more to come. I hope all is well. To my knitting group...miss you all...Jane are in your house yet??

2007-08-24T10:32:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe that is has been almost a month since I posted. I am very sorry to you all. I wish I could say that I have been busy...and probably I have been, but really its just the kids, the house, you name it. We went on vacation...a beautiful beach vacation and I had all my babies with me--finally! I think Mary has crossed over into official "adultdom" as she would rather sit on the beach reading, than playing in the water or going out to the boardwalk. In the meantime, my sons don't really like the beach and therefore played about hundred rounds of mini putt-putt. Delia was sort of in between---she just turned thirteen and is so much fun to be around (most of the time). So, until next June, I now have THREE teenagers! Yikes.

I have been helping my sister with her knitting. She is really into it....and the funny thing is, she never sticks to a pattern. She calls me and says "I like the pattern in this book, but can we change the collar" or "I like this purse, but I don't want to do the cable" or my personal favorite, "I love this pattern, and I bought this yarn for it...I know its not what they recommended, but can you make it work?" And then she hands me a DK weight yarn for a super bulky pattern. AHHHH. I admire her bravery--I would have never been altering patterns as a novice knitter. But she just plows on through. She had her last chemo yesterday--YEE HAW. And we are going to NYC in a couple of weeks to celebrate. It will be just the 6 sisters...and we are pretty excited about it.

I was also going to put in some pictures, but I am at a different computer and I forgot to bring my camera thingy (that's a technical term for the thing you use to attach the camera to the computer). Anyway I have some wonderful photos of the beach, and of some new projects. Not the least of which is Ravenclaw socks for my 19 yr old Harry Potter fan, as well as a Gryffindor hat made with that fabulous Oh MY yarn. I am almost done those freaking pomatomus socks and when I do, you will hear the shouts of joy echoing down the Chesapeake Bay.

So, photos soon.

Can anyone tell me what the heck "Ravalry" is?

2007-07-27T11:19:00.000-04:00

WOW,
Has it really been a month since I posted. I am so sorry. I hate to say that I have been busy...but there you have it. I have been busy. I direct a summer camp for the performing arts in addition to work, etc. AND, to top it off, we are going to the beach! Here are three generations in my family...me, my mom and my daughter, who just got back from a cruise with the NAVY to Sydney, Australia to Guam to Okinawa, Japan. She had some beautiful pictures and is slowly getting over her jet lag....because, like I said before, we are off to the beach...I love, love, love the beach. Its such a great vacation...reading, sunning...drinking...and let's not forget, KNITTING.
So, here is a bit of what I have been working on:

RED SOCKS!! For my boy!

A die-hard Boston Fan.

Dishcloths.....mindless, quick and oh so fun! The yarn is $1.49 a skein--seriously, and you can make about one and a half with one skein...hence the color variation in the blue...ran out of one variegated and so just started with another...love em.
A v-neck sweater for my beautiful baby nephew....just have to finish it off...got a wicked case of finishitis on this one.
Yep, I did buy MORE yarn...for baby booties and hats for the newest member of the extended family, due in December. You should feel this stuff--I touched it and went "oh my"--and laughed out loud when I saw the label! Better yet, it was on sale!

And my most exciting news: we have a NEW KNITTER! Here is my sister with her first completed project--a knitted bag to hold her knitting. She is an awesome knitter...check it out...

And also, a designer...since she pretty much followed a pattern and then completely changed it...like for example, putting it horizontally instead of vertically....using i-cord for handles...I mean it took me years to attempt to DESIGN anything or go outside the pattern...but she has no fear and is addicted....seriously....her are more photos of the bag-
I helped her line it....and added some pockets as well.
Her stitching is great....very even....

So there you have it...not much....but some. I promise to upload more frequently and to post pictures of our vacation. In the meantime...I hope all of you are enjoying the weather, the warmth, friendships and of course, great yarn!

2007-06-15T09:37:00.000-04:00

Just some quick pics---am alive and well and very busy....nephew's baptism... birthday parties..
cocktails with my friends....

birthday dinners with friends........... and yes, knitting....almost finished a few projects...will update soon. Hope all is well with you my friends.

2007-05-16T11:49:00.000-04:00

SEA TRIALS 2007 A 13 hour day that tests the midshipman's strength and endurance....emphasizing team work and fortitude. There is my beautiful daughter rolling around in the muddy water...this was the "damage control" portion of the day. Each company went to approximately 12 "stations" which each lasted about an hour. Their day started at 0330 am and ended at around 1800pm (that's 6pm for all you non-military folk out there...trust me I still don't get it and find myself always adding...huumm 12 + 6 equals 18..oh ok.)
The pipes had water being pumped through them, which the mids had to patch quickly. She was pretty tired at this point...so there did not seem to be much urgency in her body language.
Here she is transitioning to another station. Check out that smile. I guess it could not have been all that bad, if she still had the energy to muster up a beautiful smile. I truly admire her fortitude. This was an incredibly hard day...and needless to say, I probably would not have gotten through 5 minutes of it.

The start of the infamous Tug of war!

It started with a few (probably 50) situps and then quick....they had to stand...and start.....

PULLING......pull, pull, pull.....I am happy to say that her side won both times...I am sure because of her excellent upper body strength and nothing to do with the triathlete at the "anchor" end.
The Log PT....first you pick it up,
Then you drop down and do a few crunches..

then some sit-ups,

then you pick it up,

Then you lift it high into the air....all the time trying to smile as your classmate snaps your photo for your eager mom sitting on the hill!Then its off to another station........

until, finally, completely exhausted, yet extremely proud of what you've accomplished, you drag yourself, (with your little sister in tow) over to the stands to enjoy a much deserved cheeseburger, fried chicken, chips and several ice cream bars. What a day.

You even have enough energy to muster for one more photo with a very proud mom, dad and sister.

Oh, and knitting........why yes, I did that all throughout the day as I waited for her to arrive at all the different stations. I got many comments such as..."what a good idea" or "aren't you smart bringing that" and "ohhh, will you teach me?" All in all, a wonderful, wonderful day!

2007-05-04T12:06:00.000-04:00

You gotta check out this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6ZjMWLqJvM

Its really cool.............

2007-05-01T11:44:00.000-04:00

Yeah, so I have two of the same picture...what can I tell you? Not sure how to get rid of it...anyway, this is my beautiful gardenia "tree" that was a gift from a friend....
enjoy these pictures because it will be DEAD in about another month or so....I have NEVER been able to keep one of these things alive...don't know why. I love them, they are incredible and the smell is wonderful...either they are too finicky or I am just a bad plant owner.
The thing has several blowns all over....but some of the leaves are already starting to turn yellow, and I haven't even had it a whole week! I should mist it right...

So, news on the knitting front: I knit a thong!!!!!!!!! Ok, so I had some minor surgery last week (am ok---just some female issues) and I am not sure if it was the percoset or what...but I thought, hey...I'll make a thong out of this beautiful Noro silk/cotton yarn. The pattern is from Interweave press....not even sure if I'll ever wear it....but it helped me pass the time and it is kinda pretty...what do you think?

Spring is here! Here's my youngest on a sunny Sunday afternoon just trying to carve out his little piece of the capitalism pie! We live on a pretty quiet street and except for our wonderful neighbors, it was a bit slow going. I, of course, had my fill of lemonade. Interestingly enough, I also provided "change" for him as well as inventoried the lemonade and the cups....do you think he is ready for that?

And, last but not least, proving that the Easter Egg Hunt is something for kids of every age...here is my college aged daughter at the family's annual hunt. She stretched, she did a preliminary scan of the yard and then she pounced.....it was great fun to watch and I secretly revelled in the fact that underneath all her new maturity, is that beautiful little girl who always loved a chance to win!

2007-04-19T16:11:00.000-04:00

So sorry it has been two weeks since I posted. Alot has been happening...so (deep breath), here goes:

Last week, I lost a dear friend...her name was Mary Lee but we all called her Sissy. She was 4 ft, 9 inches, all muscle, I called her Tigger..."the wonderful thing about tiggers, is tiggers are wonderful things...." because she always seemed like she had springs in her feet. She was an incredible athlete, and excelled in every sport she ever tried, including..and yes I am serious, basketball. She was funny, irreverent, sarcastic and generous and I miss her so much that it hurts. I see her face and hear her laugh all the time. She was young, and beautiful and leaves behind so many loving friends that it is hard to imagine that she is actually gone....there is a saying in the Book of Common Prayer that says "in the midst of life we are surrounded by death". I understand that now...and also understand that pain and grief have moved into my "house" for awhile and maybe even forever. But I will learn to live with them....and accept them and maybe even learn from them. So, treasure your loved ones even more...don't settle for mediocrity. Sissy lived her life 110% and I owe it to her to return the favor.

God take her soul and bring her to You!

2007-04-04T12:34:00.000-04:00

St. Mary's Theater 2007--Senior Brunch!
We ate, drank, laughed, played piano, sang....it was wonderful. Truth is, now that show is over, we are all so sad and depressed that we don't know quite what to do. It is hard saying goodbye to a show, especially one like "Songs for a New World".

Some Easter eggs we did last year. We blew them out and then painted them....not sure if we will do more this year.
A beautiful array of spring bulbs, compliments of my theater students. The daffodils are blooming all over and it is wonderful!
My Easter bunny "family". Done by a local artist here in town: Natalie Silitch. AJ likes to rattle off names for all of them...

Went to the Baldwin Hall craft fair and came home with these cuties. They are boiled wool. I have five of them in different shades....again, I love getting unique items like this that were done by a local artisan.

I wish you all a blessed Easter!

2007-03-30T11:35:00.000-04:00

SO WHAT'S NEW:

SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD!
St. Mary's Theater in Annapolis-opened last night, directed by yours truly and featuring some of the best singing, dancing and acting in the area! (have been spending many, many hours there, so pardon the delay in posting)

There were some technical glitches however that will need to be ironed out...but the students were awesome. They really commited to everything they were doing and it showed! I am trying to figure out how to post video--and when I do, I am going to put it here....tomorrow, pictures from the show.

2007-03-20T13:07:00.000-04:00

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Ok, so it was this past Saturday...and yes, its been a couple of weeks since I posted. So sorry about that. Things around here are pretty busy. Dane's leg is healing but S L O W L Y....we spent one night in the Emergency Room, or as Dane likes to refer to it as "the seventh circle of hell" yep--it was bad. I mean BAD. We actually left prior to being seen by the doctor. According to all in the know, this is a big no no, but after 7.5 hours, I just couldn't make him stay anymore. He was in excruciating pain....so, to give credit where credit is due...our primary care doc was very concerned about the leg when we told him what happened. He called us while we were in the ER to tell us to come to his office instead (at 11pm on a Friday night). Unfortunately we did not hear the phone ring. He did get us on Saturday morning, and told us to meet him at his office--so we did and he spent a while with us trying to ascertain the nature of Dane's ailments. He was so thorough and detailed and let's face it, when was the last time a Doctor OPENED his office to accommodate a patient like this?! I mean, we LOVE this man...he is awesome. He diagnosed Dane with celluitis and immediately put him on antibiotics in addition to setting him up to run several other diagnostic tests. Yep--getting old sucks. Dane has spent the last two and half weeks resting the leg..a huge change for a man hell bent on NEVER being sick. So, hopefully we are on the road to recovery...Here is my mom: raising her glass to the family at our St. Patty's day celebration. We had a wonderful time with friends and family and were hanging out when this suddenly appeared:
A BAGPIPER! Apparently Mom had "ordered" this lovely musical interlude....what people forget about the bagpipes is that they are LOUD! Every child in the house (there were about 10) immediately starting screaming and crying...but it was great and a wonderful surprise. I have to admit I love them, despite the fact that most of the songs sound kinda the same. Still, it was a great party so thanks MOM!

Three Irish beauties: daughter Mary, niece Nora and daughter Delia.

On the knitting front: finished the NAVY hat for Mary's friend. Here is Mary modeling it for me. Notice the tough girl face...

which was quickly replaced by: look at that face! We had a wonderful visit with her during her spring break. We surely did not want to see her go...nor, I think, did she want to go herself. But only a few more weeks then Plebe year is officially over! I apologize once again for not posting in a few weeks. Am finishing up the Pomatomus socks, and various other projects. Happy Spring!

2007-03-06T09:03:00.000-05:00

RUPTURED BAKER'S CYST, INTARSIA IN THE ROUND AND A FINISHED PROJECT! OH MY! Here is my husband lying on the floor trying to get the swelling in his leg to go down. He ruptured a Baker's cyst and the whole leg is filled....you cannot believe the swelling or how tight the skin feels. In addition to this, he has a torn meniscus which is going to require surgery to repair. But they cannot do the surgery until after the swelling goes down. He's taking the pain medication religiously and is trying his best to get better...check out the Sam's Club frozen veggies he is using....sure glad I got those.
The finished cabled chemo hat... this is unbelievably soft and pretty. Just a great shade of blue and will match the recipient's eyes beautifully.

And, finally, intarsia in the round....I did not say GOOD intarsia in the round. I did massive amounts of research on the internet (what did we do without it) and found several methods for doing this. The easiest seems to be the slip stitch/backward knit option. I have to say that it needs concentration however and trying to do this while sitting at the Barnes and Noble talking with other knitters is probably not the best idea.
But it looks pretty good nonetheless. Its a hat for a classmate of my daughter's at USNA...yep, that will be a "N" in the middle---the wool is a beautiful wool that is pretty soft actually. On the other hats that I made similar to this one, I sewed a fleece lining inside. Not sure if I am going to have to do that with this one, since it is not all that itchy feeling.

I hope you all are well. My daughter has spring break next week--other than daylight savings being two weeks early, it sure doesn't feel like spring around here.

2007-02-23T15:45:00.000-05:00

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A WEEK MAKES!!

Yep, they are back at school....and back outside playing where they belong! It was pretty warm here the other day (mid 50's) and now its getting colder with alot more wind....
You can see the remnants of the storm in the branch lying behind the basketball hoop. And that's the tiny pile....the large pile is out back. Our neighbor graciously asked if he could cut it up for his wood burning stove.....uhhhh like YEAH! Some recent knitting. A quick knit hat for a dear friend recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Its made from Berrocco's Chinchilla (1 skein) and its a quick one my friends. Here it is modeled on my daughter, Delia, who had to come home early from school today due to illness....yeah right, I think it was the shock of actually being back at school!

The beginning of another hat for my friend. This is just an easy 8 row pattern repeat with the cable in the 5th row. Really easy--no pattern, just eyeballing it. There is something so freeing about that. This is worked in the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK. I've said it before and I'll say it again--I love this yarn! It's soft and the color is beautiful--it doesn't split and it knits up great. I promise I don't work for Debbie Bliss--if I did I imagine that every pay day, they would look at me and say "how would YOU like to pay for that?"

Which brings me to this.......

Yes, its a large blue pot...but its not just ANY pot...its a Le Creuset pot...the big one, the 9.5 quart pot! The one that Ina Garten aka Barefoot Contessa uses...the one that I have been wanting forever...the one that has always been out of my price range...well, I saved several gift cards from Williams Sonoma and finally picked this baby up. And let me tell you, this thing is HEAVY. Its enameled cast iron and I LOVE IT. I have resisted the temptation to light votive candles around it--that would just be a little weird, huh. But I am leaving it out just to look at it (sorry about the dirty stove top) and for all to admire.

Ok, so that's about all for today. Back to the cabled hat, the pomatomus sock and Beef Bourguignon!

2007-02-15T12:40:00.000-05:00

ICE STATION ANNAPOLIS! You should have heard the trees when the wind blew....it was all this twinkling and then when the wind blew HARD...the sounds of limbs breaking under the weight...it was pretty scary. The kids were home yesterday and again today, as about 50,000 people in our county are without power....luckily not us!

Finished 1 Pomatomus sock...cast on for the second......here we go.

2007-02-13T11:57:00.000-05:00

SO this is what 3 hours early dismissal from school looks like: The kids were actually shocked this morning when schools weren't closed at all. I know anyone brought up in areas where snow is common place are probably laughing right now. I mean, really, it's barely on the ground much less on the roads. And the main roads are fine! There is a concern that it might turn to freezing rain in which case, that is a whole different ball game. But the kids are happy. Here is what a 3 hour early dismissal looks like from the kids perspectives:

There's John proudly cheering with his crutches. He just took his younger brother and sister to lunch at McDonalds! Lunch at 11am you say....what the heck...it gave him something to do!
There's Mickey and no, he's not in pain...that is actually his "look at me, off from school watching King Kong in High Def" happy face! Oh, I should also point out, that they have NO homework either. So, its not like I can send them off to their rooms for awhile until homework is finished. Nope, I'm pretty much the cruise director now. Of course, having a new big flat screen tv with loads of HD channels helps to ease the pain!
On to the knitting front--here is a simple ribbed baby hat for my nephew Stephen...it is made out of Debbie Bliss's cashmerino. This stuff is a dream to work with, I tell ya. I would love to make an entire sweater out of this.....the Pomatomus Sock is almost finished..although I have to say that I am dreading the second sock with this one. The pattern is hard and I think I need something mindless. So I either have to look for a fun-loving amputee, or suck it up and knit the other one. Stay warm friends...and watch that snow for heaven's sake!

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

SOOOO--my Local Yarn Shop (LYS) had its Winter Sale this past weekend and of course I went...like I need more yarn?! Anyway, here is what I bought...some navy wool to make a USNA hat for someone special...
Some more Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn, because it feels so excellent, the colors are awesome...and doggone it, I'm worth it....these are the special colors that are created by the good folks there at Cherry Tree Hill. Expensive but worth every penny. (sorry for the blurry picture) and a skein of Ultra Alpaca...not sure what I am going to make with this...but I LOVE the color. And it feels great. Maybe a cool scarf--or thick gloves...not sure, but I know its there when the inspiration strikes me.

I also got a skein of Debbie Bliss's cashmerino to knit my precious new nephew a hat. He has been wearing that hat they gave him in the hospital...you know the white, made out of...well...you know....the "A" word....my nephew should only be in the best--so ribbed baby hat, here I come. Will post that soon.

It is 20 degrees here in Annapolis today and it will pretty much stay that way through the whole week. Its supposed to get to 8 tonight--oh boy! And yet, NO SNOW--I mean if we are going to be this cold, how about a little snow to pretty it up. I guess the cold is good and necessary...our old family doctor used to always say that we needed a long cold snap to kill off all the bad bacteria. Looks like we got us one of those.

Stay warm cyber-friends.

2007-01-27T10:36:00.000-05:00

For some reason, the link did not work for The Ships Project. So here it is again...

http://www.theshipsproject.com/Home.htm Please go and check it out.

Have a great Saturday!

Here is a picture my son drew (oil pastels) from a photo he took down at City Dock, Annapolis.

2007-01-27T10:10:00.000-05:00

The infamous Pomatomus SOCK! I had to frog it several times but here it is and I am going quickly now. I allowed myself a few "liberties" with the pattern. After all, a pattern is only a guide right....creativity is the key---or maybe for me its just plain laziness....who knows. All I know is that this looks really cool. Seriously, the knit throught the back loop gives it that twisty look and I love this sock yarn. I purchased this in Germany almost two years ago! The colors are pretty cool and vibrant...just the kind of thing I like peeking out from under my cuff. Here is quick birthday gift I am knitting for our friend, Caitlin. She is pictured with my daughter Mary at Christmas with their matching hats. Her 18th birthday was yesterday so the party is tomorrow...I can finish, I know I can. The yarn is gorgeous.....
Silk and wool. It feels like a dream and worth every penny it costs. Of course the pattern calls for 75 yards and the yardage of the skein is.....yep, only 72 yards. So, I had to buy TWO skiens. I am already thinking wrist warmers for myself with the extra. It is gorgeous I tell ya.

Just got an important email from fellow USNA mom. Check out this link The Ships Project for knitting for our troops. I know that I will be bringing this idea to BOTH of my knitting circles. Thank you so much Elaine for sending this along. Also, if you are ever in the area...please call...let's get together and knit awhile!

2007-01-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN INEXPERIENCED SKIIER MEETS CANADA... Yep, here is my 17 year old son, just back from beautiful Mont Tremblant Canada.
On his very first run, on his very first day....this is what happened.... Can you see the bone splits on the left side of the X-ray. Can you see the way the bone appears to be protruding outward. That is his left tibia and fibula done near the ankle. Apparently, the bone actually "bent" before it broke. The good news is that it is not in his ankle joint and he will not require surgery. Whew. However, he is off of it for about 10 weeks. He will most probably have physical therapy when he's done. The cast is actually removable but the doctor "strongly cautioned" John about taking it off ONLY for bathing. He is resting comfortably--of course it doesn't help that he has a cold on top of everything else.

All I have to do is knit him a little "toe cozy" for the left foot.

A picture of my lovely ladies who took me out to dinner for my birthday. There's Cathy, me, and Patricia. Sadly, Sherie couldn't make it--but she was missed and we left an empty seat for her. I picked up the pomatomus sock again and am almost finished one...I will post that picture tomorrow. In the meantime, I am busy knitting my Debbie Bliss ruffled sweater. I wish that she included schematics and measurements in her instructions...that way I know I am right on the money in terms of length, etc. I should surf the net, see if any are out there.

2007-01-16T15:29:00.000-05:00

ANOTHER NEPHEW HAS ARRIVED!!!!

Welcome to the world, Stephen Clarke Kolb. Born on January 2, 2007 and weighing in at a very respectable 7lbs. 10ozs. I held him today for a long time...what is it about holding a sleeping baby that seems to make you feel better. Its like prozac without the pill....there is just something so peaceful and angelic and you feel like with all the other stuff going on and all the things that have to get done, that none of it matters, because this is EXACTLY what you are supposed to be doing at this very moment. I am so blessed to have all these babies in my family. I think this is #19 of the Clarke grandchildren: let's count 'em up: Joe, Sean, Michael, PJ, Andrew, Mary, John, Delia, Mickey, Caleb, Chelsea, Molly, Nora, William, Walter, Stephen, Paul, Jamie, Shannon--yep 19. Ok, guys, someone's gotta go for another--we need an even 20! Any volunteers?Baby booties! These were the ones I started making a while ago--you know the ones with the tiny needles and the cable. They were very tedious and time consuming...but just look at the result. Kinda makes me want to knit a whole batch of them--maybe even a pair in cashmere for the precious boy's little tootsies....Awful picture of me....great picture of Walter and his new baby brother. He is very proud of his new sibling and wants to touch his head all the time. What is it with kids and always wanting to touch baby's head??!! Mine were always like that as well. It was always the head. There's some psychology in there somewhere.

On the knitting front, the ribbon cardi is going great. I am plugging along and giving myself little deadlines. Hope everyone is well. Now, go hold a baby...it'll make your day!

2007-01-10T11:44:00.000-05:00

HEY everyone!

Ok, so its been a whole week. Where has all the time gone? I sent the kids back to school on January 2nd. Now, I know that there are times when its ok to send them back...when the whole "mommy--what's for breakfast, or mommy, what's for lunch, or mommy, what's for dinner" thing gets old, but honestly, I felt like it was still the holiday when they went back. I did not let on to them, that I thought it unfair and way to early to go back---are you crazy man?! I couldn't let them see my weakness....I would forever be the wounded gazzelle, and they would be the victorious pumas! No way man. So I gave them a hearty breakfast, told them to buck up and sent them on their merry way. I am proud to say that there were no tears...just some wistful looking kids.

So, on to the knitting front. I took my mother in law up to a yarn shop in Columbia..called All About Yarn. It was a bit difficult to find in that it was located in a sort of industrial park--you know, lots of long, one-storied buildings housing such various businesses as car parts, sheet metal supply and well, yarn. (which reminds me of a really funny shop in my husband's home town of Canon City Colorado, where there was a shop that was a 1. taxidermy shop 2. car cleaning service and 3. hair salon; the name of this magical place (and I am NOT KIDDING) is "Fluff 'em, Buff 'em and Stuff 'em --yeah, I have a picture too) But I digress...so I walked around for a while and ended up buying some beautiful Debbie Bliss cashmerino yarn to make this ruffled cardi. The yarn is incredible to work with--I have to admit, I LOVE Debbie Bliss yarn. It just feels like butter.

So, something I learned from my trip to the yarn store with my mother in law is this 1. NEVER take a non-knitter or non-crocheter to a yarn store! Because this would be like taking me to an automotive store--to a non-knitter it all looks the same. God bless her, she was very sweet and walked around with me until a lovely knitter sitting on the couch encouraged her to sit while I shopped. My mom in law politely inquired as to what the other women were knitting. They responded and were very nice..but you know us knitters when we get in a yarn store....watch out! I hunker down....I touch EVERYTHING, I ask questions, I will look at EVERY yarn in the sale bin, I will not worry about time, I will not worry about money (I had a coupon!), I will enjoy every guilt free minute, knowing that my husband and family are all at home watching football and that for these couple of hours I am completely free to do what I want....so that's what is going on in my head. So the upshot is that I did not stay as long as I wanted...I left some yarn untouched...such is life. It was more important to be kind to my mother in law at that moment then it was for me to fufill my yarn's desires. We had a lovely late lunch and went home to a peaceful home and I cast on immediately. All in all, a good day.

So, here is quick baby hat that I made. My girlfriend just had her first grand-baby. They always referred to the baby as "the bean". She asked me if I could make some kind of bean hat. I wracked my brain, searched the internet and googled it four ways to Sunday. The best I came up with was a pattern from Yarniverse for a pumpkin hat. I tweaked it a bit and here is the hat modeled on a friends' baby. I think its pretty cute. I just have to give the owner of Yarniverse a big shout out as she tried to email me this pattern so that I could start right away. We probably worked on this thing for 3 hours trying to get the emailing thing down. In the end, I told her just to mail it to me and I would wait. She was awesome--go check out her store online. I can personally vouch for their top notch customer service.

I hope everyone's New Year is going well. My personal resolution was to get into shape and so that extent, my husband and I started a running program. I am proud to say that it is going well and we are enjoying it so far. It is so hard to get started but once you do, man do you feel great.

2007-01-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me....so you know the rest of the song. Actually this picture is from the day after Christmas (my birthday is January ONE). We took the fam, that's Mickey, Dane, John, Delia, Gran (Dane's mom), me and Mary out to Sakura for dinner. Actually Gran treated which was great. It was crowded. Everybody had the same idea...tired of cooking all that holiday food---let's get out! It was great. The chefs are wonderful and very entertaining and my daughter Delia was able to catch several pieces of shrimp when he threw them in her mouth! My wonderful mother in law, has had quite the ordeal getting back home to Albuquerque, New Mexico. First her flight was delayed on Friday, then cancelled all together. Then we were able to re-schedule her for New Year's Eve. We got her on the plane and all was well when my sister in law called to say that a rare fog had enveloped Albuquerque and that her plane was being re-routed to Phoenix. Luckily for us, Gran's best friend lives in Phoenix and was able to pick her up. Unfortunately, Jeanie suffers from early Alzheimer's, and I can only imagine the stress she was feeling when the pilot announced that they would not be landing in Albuquerque. She is a wonderful lady and we are lucky to have her! Hopefully she will make it home soon--I know she was anxious to be home and missed her beautiful hacienda! Star Hats: In a galaxy very near, there lived a loving mother and her beautiful daughter. Her daughter had a wonderful friend, who was much like a daughter to the mother! A pattern was found for star hats, colors chosen, hats knitted, and even lined with fleece so their ears would not get itchy. All was right with the world and the galaxy was safe once again.
Aren't they beautiful....the hats AND the girls. Pattern from Knitting Central, Yarn is Reynold's Lopi, some modifications were made...and about a half yard of polar fleece basted to the inside brim. HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

2006-12-27T19:18:00.000-05:00

Christmas was here! The children were all snuggled in their beds, and then Santa came! No toys to put together this year...just lots of "stuff". The kids get bigger and the presents get smaller; Ipods, Nintendo Wii, Wii games, DVD's, CD's and the like. They take up alot less room than the toys, but boy are they more expensive. Here is my mom at our annual Christmas Eve dinner. My whole family was here as well as my wonderful mother in law in from Albuquerque New Mexico. The menu consisted of Southern stuffed ham, potatoes, roast beef, jello salad (you gotta have it, you know), my famous ceaser salad and of course, cookies.

Here is some of the gang out on the back porch. There is Ted (married to sister Erin), sister in law Kim, Dane the spouse, Brant (married to sister Megan), Chris my brother (Kim's husband) and family friend, Brian. This represents just a small portion of who was there, and we all had a wonderful time with each other.
More pictures coming...my computer takes forever to upload. Merry Christmas to all my friends!

2006-12-20T15:49:00.000-05:00

Ok--So I hit the wrong button and the blog posted before I could finish...those pictures you see at the end of the previous post are my two beautiful daughters baking for me. Mary, the older one, LOVES to bake and is good at it...I'll have to share her recipe for "Christmas Crunch". Delia, the younger is a wonderful help as well. You can see by the ingredients that we have alot of baking to do. We love it...I love it, especially since I now have kids that can do it...
Merry merry my friends!!!!!!!!!

2006-12-20T14:42:00.000-05:00

A much happier blog post today. Not that things have changed all that much...well, I guess we are now "hopeful". He (the spouse) came home Tuesday and said that after thinking about it, he realized how badly I had been feeling and that he would do ANYTHING to make the situation better. Even "change", I said...to which he responded..."yep, even that". Of course saying it and doing it are two different things...but for now I'll take the stop gap measure and see where it leads. OK--so on to the CHRISTMAS BLOG!
Here is one of my Dept. 56 houses...its Ralphie's house from "A Christmas story". See the leg lamp in the window. I found these a couple of years ago and just love them. In addition to Ralphie's house I have the Cleveland School, Higbees and the Chop Suey Palace (you rememeber: "Its Smiling at me!")

Then there are the trees. The fiber optic tree in the bathroom which is kinda hypnotic if truth be told. Sometimes I just go in and stare at it. A definite sign that I am losing it.

Then there is the "official" tree which to me looks more like a bush. I do not go on this foray to get the tree--that is not the tradition in our family. I stay home, make dinner and get all the trimmings ready. I keep telling my family--tall and thin, guys, tall and thin. They always come back with short and fat, short and fat. Then there is the annual argument over the tree topper. I would like an angel or a star even...but NOOOO, every year the kids take down that beautiful angel and up goes the miniature Broncos helmet. There have actually been tears about this. You can see that I have artfully placed angels around the helmet, but somehow I still think the message has been skewed. Oh well, pick your battles that's what I say.

Then there is the feather tree that sits on top of the piano. This is another "find" and the ornaments were last year's after Christmas 80% off at our local Christmas store.
Then there is the trees that are around the mirror on the mantle. The golden one I got at a local thrift shop--for $1--gotta love it. The other is an oldie but a goodie, filled with those Natalie Silitch angels that I love. Speaking of Natalie Silitch, she did a thing at the White House for Laura Bush and 20 of her closest friends. They are unique and folk-arty and very festive. Yep, you guessed it...make up roses. I will be firm in my decision to re-negotiate my marriage contract, flowers or no...they are pretty though, aren't they. This is my desk with all my magazines and wishlists.

2006-12-18T14:52:00.000-05:00

SO, does anyone out there know a good divorce attorney??

Ok, so that isn't the most joyous of blog titles. But is sure is how I feel and not the "I am just so spitting angry at my spouse that I am sick and tired of it" kind of feeling...no, its the "I really pretty much feel like crap most of the time, and I've tried to tell him what is going on and he has flat out stated that its all me and he's NEVER going to change and this is your life" kind of feeling. So how did this all start...well not sure about that but I can sure tell you when it ended. That would be last night driving home from a friend's house when I (stupidly) brought up (again) the fact that he (the spouse) never does ANYTHING to help with Christmas. This spouse feels that its all unnecessary and therefore I should have NO expectations from him. He went on to further state that he doesn't care if we even have decorations or a tree. He actually gets angry about it and when you try to tell him how you feel, he pretty much tells you that your feelings are wrong.

Ok, so that is pretty much it. When I tried to tell him that I feel very disregarded, his response was to be shocked. "Huh?" I believe was his response. When I cited specific examples he pretty much intimated that I was making it up. So, at the end of the "discussion" he stated unequivocally that he was not going to change, wouldn't even consider changing and that as far as he was concerned life was perfect. I still cannot figure that out. How can one person be fine and the other completely devastated. So, what to do now? Pretty much I guess I have to figure this out for myself. Of course we have younger kids and that makes things even more difficult. I guess its a good thing to truly know where your spouse is coming from....it certainly makes certain things easier, but other things that much harder.

Ok, so that's the depressing blog for the day...........pray for me out there in cyber space...I sure need it now!

2006-12-13T07:38:00.000-05:00

So sorry, its been over a week. I have been busy, as I assume you all are with Christmas and all the attending festivities. I just LOVE this time of year...really I do! I spent all weekend at the Springhill CFD Designer Show House. I was the docent at the main door. The house was just beautiful and the room were incredible. I came home with alot of ideas and started re-arranging furniture right then and there. Of course, my house still doesn't look like a designer walked in and decorated, but it looks a little fresher.

Saturday night was the Annapolis Parade of Lights. This is for all those boaters to decorate their boats and coast around City Dock. We were at my friend's house which is right downtown and we had a perfect view of everything. Of course, like a idiot, I did not take my camera (still a newbie at this blog stuff--you gotta carry that camera EVERYWHERE!) I know someone who did, so here are some pictures of that. Check out her web page: www.dropshots.com/usna2010

In the meantime, I have been knitting.....Christmas knitting that is...here is a hat being blocked. I am making two of these for my daughter and her best friend. The star will be appliqued to the front of the hat. The other hat will have a yellow stripe with the orange star. These knit up fast and the pattern is easy...got it from Knitting Central in Connecticut. I had trouble with one spot and called the shop. The nice lady walked me through everything...now that's customer service.

Will post later...going to give blood. Give if you can.......they really need it.

2006-12-05T11:33:00.000-05:00

Christmas is coming...check out these vintage cardboard houses I found while "antiquing" on the Eastern shore of Maryland. I went to several antique stores and eventually found these at a Salvation Army thrift shop for.....$1.oo apiece. Isn't that great---I love when I can find a deal like this. They were all spread out in the store so I had to go through a lot of, what I shall call, "stuff" to get to these treasures. Last year in Martha Stewart Living, she had an entire article devoted to these heirlooms. I am so happy they have found a home with me and I think they look beautiful on my mantle. Calling on all green thumbs...here is my fern brought in from its home on the screened porch to my living room--so we have gas forced air heat..and that means..yep, you guessed, very dry air. I have set up a humidifier near the plant and am hoping that this will help. I REALLY want it to survive the winter. Its so BIG--does anyone have any advice about what to do?

Just finished our Fall Production this past weekend. My son was in the show and gave out awards which were pretty funny. This was his first high school show and I think he really like it, even with his mom being the Director.

He was hilarious!

I guess I should get my ducks in a row here. So, I have been planning some Christmas knitting. Not a ton this year. So I have these Star hats for my daughter and her friend. They "disapproved" of the colors I picked out (a beautiful eggplant color with deep green accent) and instead picked these colors. Its all about them, right! Then there is the baby hat I have been "commissioned" to make for a friend's new grandchild. They call this baby the "bean" and so I will adapt this pattern for the little one...will post as that comes along.

And lastly there is the Mason Dixon Knit-a-long which I joined. Its all dishcloths and so much fun...just perfect for those with attention disorders....in the meantime, I am just letting my fingers do the walking with Christmas shopping, clicking away at the computer. However, I was just outbid on the Nintendo Wii system for my kids...yikes. Gotta go get that thing....HELP!

Hope all is well with everyone. Please keep Ben's family in your thoughts and prayers. As well as praying for all those who are in harms way.

2006-11-29T09:21:00.000-05:00

FUNERAL FOR A FALLEN MIDSHIPMAN

Yesterday was the funeral of family friend and fellow USNA classmate of Mary's, Ben Carr. Ben died late Thanksgiving night when the car he was a passenger in crashed headlong into a tree killing him instantly. Words cannot describe the grief that has taken over our community. Ben was a student at St. Mary's for 13 years and then a stellar Midshipman in his junior year. As the Deacon stated yesterday at the funeral Mass, "there is only love, and we must remember that as long as we love one another, no one ever truly leaves us". I watched in stunned silence at the beauty and pageantry of the Catholic Funeral Mass coupled with the precision of a full military funeral. It was breathtaking. The solemn march from the Naval Academy chapel to the Naval Academy cemetery (about 1 mile) was silent and solemn. His entire company as well as other Midshipmen who knew Ben well were present to honor their fallen shipmate. I would say that there were approximately 1000 people in attendance which comforted Ben's family tremendously. At one point in time, Ben's mom told me "I don't think I know this many people". The most powerful part of the ceremony came at the end, after the 21 gun salute, after the playing of TAPS and after the flag was folded and handed to Patti. As family and friends left the grave site to attend a reception at a nearby home, ALL of Ben's company stayed watch at the grave site in somber silence. Mourners processed passed them and yet they stayed at attention until the casket was lowered into the ground. Only when it was fully lowered did they give their fallen shipmate one final salute and process away. It was breathtaking and heartbreaking all at the same time.

Charles Benjamin Carr, IV
July 1, 1986-November 24, 2006

2006-11-25T14:46:00.000-05:00

It is with a heavy heart that I make this post. After a joyful Thanksgiving dinner, a beloved friend and fellow USNA classmate, C. Benjamin Carr (age 20) was killed in an automobile accident a few miles away from his home. Please keep his family in your prayers and HUG your children.

http://hometownannapolis.com

2006-11-13T11:30:00.000-05:00

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG! Here is some of the 7th grade class. I was one of the lucky chaperones on this field trip. We lucked out totally on the weather. It was amazing. During the day it was in the low 70's then in the 50's at night. We did a tour of Colonial Williamsburg that was just great--of course, I stopped to talk to another chaperone and lost my group--I mean LOST--I could not find them anywhere--of course they had kept up with our tour guide and stupid me was wandering around looking for everyone else. Of course it was then that I totally "bit" it on the ye olde sidewalke. I didn't even see the step and down I went. And let me tell you, it wasn't a lady like "oops" it was a wipe-out. My ye celle phone went skittering into the street where it came dangerously close to being stepped on by ye olde horse! I must have looked pretty silly--but the oddest thing was, NO ONE helped me up. I mean, there were like a ton of people standing around and NO ONE helped. I thought that was odd...but perhaps they were just laughing so hard at my clumsiness.

On the second day, we visited Yorktown and then it was on to Jamestown. Here is the lady of the house in Yorktown getting her day started in the kitchen.
The room smelled wonderful! Wood fire, stew in the pot--it was good. All around she had pieces of meat hanging. Of course, we all wanted to know if it was REAL? Let me just tell you, EVERYTHING at Yorktown is REAL--they live for this stuff. Every year on Thanksgiving, they butcher a hog and then cure the meat as they would have done then. See those pots covered with ash? Those are "dutch ovens" and in them are biscuits and pies--they even have their own hens for the eggs. These people worked hard to make it here in the New World.

And then it was on to historic Jamestown. Now, they are gearing up for the 400th Anniversary and as such, they just opened a new Visitor's Gallery that would rival anything I've seen at the Smithsonian. These folks in Jamestown take their history VERY seriously. Trust me, don't bring up the Disney version of "Pocahontas" unless you want a lecture on the historical inaccuracies in that movie. And to be honest, they have a point. The real story of Pocahontas is much more interesting...I won't tell it here--but do check out several websites that will tell the story. I give credit to the good folks down there in Virginia for protecting and honoring our history with such attention to detail.

And finally...
this is what happens to those chaperones who get lost..........that's my daughter Delia with the thumbs up. I think she finally has me where she wants me.

Oh, there is a knit shop in Williamsburg. Its called Knitting Sisters
I really wanted to go, but they told me that all three coach busses would not stop so that I could do a little shopping. What is this world coming to.

Oh, and the Pomatomas socks, yeah, well, let's just say my twisted seed stich heel was completely and totally wrong. And so I frogged and picked up then put down, cause I am frustrated! More on the that later.

2006-11-07T11:04:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I turned the heel!! Yippee, yee-haw. I am pretty excited about it really. Its the little things you know. I was up late last night--are some people just natural night-owls? I would love it if I could go to bed earlier and wake up chipper; but alas, that does not happen. I inevitably stay up way to late, still get up early (someone has to force the kids to eat breakfast!) and then hit the wall around 2pm--what's a girl gotta do?

I love the heel flap of this pattern. Its a twisted seed stitch (is that really a stitch?) But its cool.

Also, check out this issue of Knitty. I loved the article about the double knitted socks. Its great. The author and inventor of the idea is going to come out with more tips--yeah--for those of us a bit slow on the uptake...can't wait.

2006-11-02T14:09:00.000-05:00

Look at that face!! This is my neighbor's youngest, little Sydney. She was really more interested in the candy bowl than in my taking her picture. Smart girl!

Another set of neighbors. These kids were older but they had awesome costumes. I say if you take the trouble to get dressed up, then by golly, you deserve candy!
And, of course, you have the family friends...you know them...the cool couple who gets to do all these really cool things (cause they don't have kids) and then they tell you about all the cool stuff they get to do and you don't....you know who I mean. We all have friends like this...but they are great and funny and generous and fun to be around. So here they are about to go to a few downtown establishments in the hopes of winning a costume prize. The crab costume was a custom job that she picked up at a yard sale. I guess the woman paid something like $1800.oo for it and sold it to my friend for $50. Let me tell you, just wearing this thing is a work-out. It comes with a neck harness--a NECK HARNESS I tell you--that helps keep the weight of the crab costume off your head and neck. It is HEAVY--and HOT. Brian is dressed as...yep...you guessed..."crab shampoo"...it had some funny stuff written on it. Not sure if they won anything yet.

Oh, and Barb, Mickey redeemed himself and went trick or treating as "Jake Plummer". All is right with the world!

2006-10-30T16:54:00.000-05:00

HAPPY ALMOST HALLOWEEN! So, my question is: do I HAVE to carve the pumpkin? I mean it looks just perfect like that doesn't it. The neighborhood kids will know I have candy from the porch light and "presence" of a pumpkin. Is carving totally necessary?? This is what I have to worry about. I have an extremely hectic day tomorrow and I really don't have time to carve, so I am hoping a lovely "seasonal display" out on the front porch will suffice.

Ok, so I am busy on the Pomatomus sock from Knitty.com. I have wanted to knit this puppy since I first saw it. It is pretty tough, but the pattern does have a certain rhythm to it and once you know how to "read" your knitting, its easy to pick up and put down. Now, the tough part is that I am knitting it with two circulars not DPN's and as such have to tweek the pattern directions a bit. So, tell me, how do I make this...............
translate into Cat Bordhi's "method". Here she explains it. But after re-reading it about a hundred times, I have decided that I am definitely a VISUAL learner. Please, oh PLEASE won't someone just come over and SHOW ME! I promise that once you show it to me, its mine...I will never need to ask you again. But I really want to turn that heel, and make that gusset and well, I can't cause I can't translate!

Here is the sock so far. This is Fortissma Socka that I got in Germany last year. Between the self striping and the pattern, it is coming along beautifully. I love it and I especially love the funky colors. Won't that be cool, peeking out under my jeans....a little lime green, a little navy blue.

People keep asking me who I am knitting for. When I tell them me...alot of them just stare...like "huh, just for you?" I go on to explain that in VERY RARE occasions will I knit for others. It is so time consuming and it expensive and I have (as I know alot of you have) been burned one too many times with the "oh, you made this....oh, uh, great....thanks". So for those of you who admire the knitting, I say grab some needles and let me show you how!

This blog post is temporarily interrupted by Mickey...my precious 10 year old who had to come home from school early today. Headache, nausea, and general malaise. He rested, we did homework...here he is laying on the couch, very upset because he missed his friend's birthday party this afternoon...he kept telling me that he was FINE to go to the party. Yeah, right, like I would fall for that again. No way, baby. Of course, I did feel badly for him. The ibuprofen kicked in and he DID feel better...but he couldn't have gone, could he? Am I a terrible mother? Or a really good one? Oh well...Have a great Halloween all you trick or treaters and an even better All Saints Day!

2006-10-23T08:27:00.000-04:00

A wonderful day to be outside!Navy Lacrosse! This is how I spent my Saturday--a beautiful fall day, crisp air, blue sky and gorgeous trees. The Navy women's lacrosse team played in the George Mason tournament. They played other Division I teams from the whole country...oh, and the England National team was there as well. They seemed much older, almost professional. What I loved most about them was that when they scored they would shout things like: (in a very proper English accent)
"Well played Lizzie" or "Good on you Jenny" It was all so genteel.

Here is Mary with two of her high school buddies. The one on the left plays for Georgetown now and the one on the right plays for Hofstra. I think we knew someone from almost every team there. It was like old home week. Also quite a tribute to the St. Mary's High School lacrosse program to have girls at all these top schools.
Here she is with her friend Sara (left) who is the goalie at William & Mary and Christian (right) who goes to Loyola. They all looked wonderful and said that they are adjusting well to school. I sure don't remember looking as good as these girls looked--I think the "freshman 15" is a thing of the past. Of course, most of the kids I know are all athletic and so they are definitely keeping in shape in school, so no matter how badly they are eating, they will never show the weight. Ah, what I wouldn't give for that metabolism now!

Here is Delia and Mickey (12 and 10 respectively). Delia loves to go to these things. She simply adores her older sister and also loves the sport of lacrosse. She brought her stick and practiced in between games. Mickey just wants to play catch with the football, morning, noon and night. After Dane had played with him for a while, I noticed that he found another dad to play catch with, and so on throughout the day. It reminded me of that scene in the movie "Spanglish" when the housekeeper is about to throw the ball for the dog, and the mother screams at her to STOP--because she says it will never stop....the dog will never stop bringing the ball back and back and back. I felt that I should warn people about Mickey's penchant for playing catch...and if you start, you're pretty much hooked for a while. All the wonderful men who played with him were happy to do so and I think it made Mickey's day.

Here is Dane with Mary and Mickey. Do you love the glasses on my husband?! I am not kidding you when I tell you that they are 20 years old! He told me that they would come back in style in one day.

Ah--the end of the day...rolling the cooler back to the car...carrying the chair. He is not as surly as the picture appears...I just told him to turn around really fast and I snapped the picture. It says it all. I think he was probably tired of being the "sherpa" of the day. But he does it all with charm!

Not much knitting this weekend. Although I started the Pomatomus sock from Knitty. Pretty complicated pattern, but am going to post tomorrow of the work in progress. Have a wonderful day everyone!

2006-10-19T11:10:00.001-04:00

FINISHED SOCKS!! Just a quick post with pictures of the finished socks. My friend Patricia came over for dinner last night, and then we sat and knit. Well, I knit and she helped Delia (my beautiful 12 year old) with her english assignment. So, here they are. You wanna know the amazing part---I did NOT plan on the stripes being symmetrical! Seriously, it just worked out that way. Except for some of the whiter yarn on the toe of the right sock, they are an exact match! How do they do it? Of course, I would love to take credit for it, but I think it has nothing to do with me.

I did these on circulars and LOVED it! I don't know if I will ever go back to dpn's again. This is the yarn I got in Germany. It is ok, but I am very much looking forward to knitting up some socks in the Cherry Tree Hill yarn I got in May--
Almost done the baby sweater--will post when finished!

2006-10-19T11:10:00.000-04:00

2006-10-16T11:51:00.000-04:00

Homecoming, knitting, god-daughter visiting...oh my! What a beautiful weekend here in Annapolis, Maryland! The sky was a beautiful clear (and for those of you who are North Carolina fans) "tarheel" blue! The temperature was in the sixties--I finally got to wear my vintage velvet scarf! Saturday was the Naval Academy homecoming football game. Sadly, Navy did not win and their star QB injured himself--many prayers to him and his family. We had a great visit with our Plebe and enjoyed the festivities from the Superintendent's tent inside the stadium where we ate oysters, ham, turkey and burgers! I did do some knitting--check out this yarn. I got this from Gundel (see previous post about knitting group) and am just knitting up a quick basketweave patterned scarf. Isn't the yarn cool though--kinda gray, kinda blue, kinda thick, kinda thin....I love it.

I don't have much so far---the needles are "rescue needles" I found at my favorite local thrift store. Yes, they were in the middle of a project and yes, I bought the project with the needles for all of $1. I finished the project (I think it was a scarf) and gave it to my daughter..who did not really like it, but smiled anyway and thanked me graciously. She is so sweet! Anyway, I really like the wood, but they are WAAAYYYY too long. Does anyone out there need a set of long wooden needles. I would love to give them to a good home...someone who would use them. Let me know.

It was also my son's high school Homecoming on Saturday. Here he is (looking a bit surprised actually) with his big sis who was home temporarily before heading back to the Academy. Notice the bits of brownie on her lips and hands--she came home and made brownies and then promptly ate them all. Ok, I confess, she had help with the eating part.

Here are some of Mary's friends who are still in high school--they came over to visit Mary and to let me see them all dressed up. There's Kelsey, Liz, Mary and Caitlin...don't they look beautiful. What you don't see is that Mary has on shorts...she did not want to put on her entire uniform and requested very politely that I take the picture from the waist up. Which also explains capturing all that stuff on top of the armiore...think I should put the Easter baskets away?

Here is John walking out for the night....He looked so handsome! I remember Homecoming like it was yesterday. Where did all the time go.

Almost done sock no. 2..will post pictures of that soon. Take care.

2006-10-09T12:33:00.000-04:00

HERE IS MY KNITTING GROUP

From left to right, its Susan, Jenny, Gundel and Jane. Dorothy was not there--claims she was busy but I don't believe her--she probably was sick of me teasing her about ripping out her sweater again! We missed you Dorothy! The lady standing and holding the sock is my knitting guru, Gundel. She was the one who took me under her wing when I announced several years ago that I was going to learn to knit socks. She invited me over on Monday morning and VIOLA, a knitting group was formed, although she keeps insisting on calling it "sewing" because she had a similar group a long time ago when her babies were small. I cannot tell you how much these women mean to me. They have shared all the crazy moments of my life--the sad moments, the happy moments and everything in between. In addition to that, I have learned some of my greatest lessons from them--and not just knitting either!

This is Susan. Here is her beautiful afghan. She is (knitters look away) crocheting this--it is beautiful. She is also involved with the prayer shawl ministry which is a beautiful expression of love. She is smart, talented and gracious!

Here is Gundel and Jane. Jane is our "seasonal" group member as during the summer months she moves up to Nantucket and lives there and knits with all those New Englanders. Sounds pretty nice! Her husband is also a graduate of the Naval Academy and so I already have a bond with her because of that. She is a wonderful knitter and very much eager to do wonderful new things. Here Gundel is helping her with her project.
Here is Jenny. She does all sorts of hand work, but I think I can safely say that crocheting is her true medium. Her work is absolutely amazing. She can do things that would make Lily Chin cry--and she does it all in such a quiet humble way. Jenny is also our resident bibliophile. Ask about a book, and odds are that she has either read it or knows about it.

She is from North Carolina and despite having lived here for most of her life, her North Carolina accent remains strong and proud.

She has helped me get through many a crochet pattern and is always so patient with me about explaining everything from what the heck a half treble stitch is to how to do a basic chain.

Here is the baby sweater--all I have to do is add the sleeves. It is all knit in one piece. I have added the contrasting stripe. The color in the photo is awful. The accent color is a beautiful shade of purple, not as it looks in the photo, blue. I will photograph it outside where the contrast is better. I am using Berrocco's Cotton Twist...and yes it does split a bit, but I am trying to be careful when I knit so as to keep that to a minimum. I am using a Knitting Pure and Simple pattern--the top down baby sweater. Its for little Shannon!

2006-10-07T08:39:00.000-04:00

A RAINY SATURDAY!

You what this meant---yep, that's right--no games! My daughter's field hockey game was cancelled...my older son did not have to work (he works at a golf course) and all that yard work we were going to do was just going to have to wait. So what did we do...well, we visited...we went out for lunch...we had dinner at my sister's house....all in all a wonderful day. Sometimes those rainy days really hit the spot don't they! Here is a picture of my "naturally" landscaped backyard. Note the total LACK of any landscaping at all--I am sadly NOT a Gardener. That gray lump down by the fence is an old soccer goal that my son uses to hit golf balls into. Yeah, it pretty much sits out there all by itself and looks like a gray mass--yuck.

Here is my new niece---Shannon Elizabeth. Isn't she beautiful! The sweater I am making for her is coming along great. I will post pictures soon.

2006-10-03T10:02:00.000-04:00

THE BIRTHDAY BOY!

Yesterday was my son's 17th birthday. How did he get so old? How did I get so old!? We had a wonderful meal: asagio and pear encrusted pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes, green beans, fresh rolls, and of course, applesauce (you know you can't have pork without applesauce ala Brady Bunch: "pork chops and applesauce") My mom and dad were there, as were Craig (my second husband--I am so high maintenance, I need two), as well as some of John's friends. The two younger kids, Delia and Mickey were there as well. We missed Mary, but she did call from USNA where she was studying for a large calculus test....it was a typical John birthday with lots of food and all gifts having something to do with golf. He just loves golf---morning, noon and night. So Happy Birthday my beautiful boy!

Funny story---I NEVER have birthday candles--really, I am birthday candle impaired! What I did have was a number 8 candle and 9 stray individual candles--hey it works right.........I can hear the laughter now.

The first completed baby sock. This is from Ann Budd's design in Interweave Knits, Spring 2005. It was a bit confusing especially the turning of the heel, and the short rows. But I followed the directions, except for the cable: I was supposed to start with a cable front but instead misread the chart and did a cable back, so I just reversed the two--no worries. It is knit with Stork yarn--very easy. The needles are size 0--like toothpicks. The pen is there to give you an idea of actual size. Its' SMALL!

Here is a close up of the cable pattern. It is so amazing to me that I could actually knit something like this. Do you ever feel that way---really and truly amazed that we can actually do this stuff--I guess for me that is the wonder of it all.

I picked up this lap quilt on Sunday at the Ocktoberfest in West Annapolis. It was being auctioned off by the Conflict Resolution Center(an amazing organization!) www.aacrc-md.us/

I was lucky enough to be the winning bidder for this beautiful applique quilt. Here it is at home on my chaise in front of my living room window. Of course, my dog will love it as this is the usual spot he is in while keeping our house free from any and all intruders, including: the mail man, ANYONE jogging, the lady walking her baby, and the man mowing his lawn across the street. Our dog's name is Vincent and he is a ASPCA rescue dog--we got him as a puppy and he is my buddy. Here he is doing what he does best:

He was having a dream just as I took this picture--his paws were going crazy. What exactly do dogs dream about? Knowing Vinnie, probably about food, chasing squirrels or rabbits and most importantly, FOOD.

I have a new niece!!! Shannon Elizabeth Harvey was born September 27th!! She is beautiful! She is welcomed home by her loving parents: Nathen and Sharon Harvey and her very proud older brothers, Paul and Jamie. I am making her this adorable pullover from Weekend Knitting. I am using Berroco's Cotton Twist--hopefully I will knit it up quickly--as I have another sister due in January--this will be number 19 (of the grandchildren!). Off, to knit up a swatch. Enjoy the unseasonably warm days that are predicted for those of us in Maryland.

2006-09-27T11:32:00.000-04:00

WHAT TO DO NEXT??

Here it is, the dreaded SSS (that's second sock syndrome for all you newbies out there). Yes, that is when you get so excited about finishing a project, only to realize you have to do it all over again, cause you can't just knit one sock! Well, I guess you could, but that kinda defeats the purpose. Interestingly enough, socks were my very first knitting project. I know, I never did believe in starting easy...."knitting...sure....how about I try doing this sock thing and using 5 tiny double pointed needles....yeah, that's the ticket...." Needless to say when I finished that first sock, I was so happy and proud. I showed EVERYBODY. I was a bit taken aback when most people, although happy for me, looked a bit confused...as if they were saying "why is she so excited about ONE sock? Doesn't she have to knit another?" What they didn't understand was the total satisfaction I felt at having completed anything! I took their consternation in stride, and immediately began work on the second sock. It took longer, ironically, than the first and not because I was new to the process...but because now I felt that I had knit the hardest thing I could and the whole knitting world was now open to me. Nothing scared me...intarsia, please!, fair isle...sure, bring it on....set in sleeves...size 000 needles...I laugh at you! So other things took my interest, and the second sock languished in ignominy until a year later...I saw it peaking out from my basket. I quickly grabbed it and finished it. Of course my elation at actually finishing the sockS was not shared by all. Most everyone had already forgotten about the first sock, so their responses were much like before: "what can you do with only one sock?" When I explained that it was the pair to that one, they were speechless and in their heads I knew they were thinking: "she should find another hobby--clearly this one isn't working out"

And so I have you my knitting friends...you all know...you all share in all the ups and downs, the forgotten and the not so forgotten, the finished and of course the unfinished.

So onto the next project! What should it be. I got this beautiful yarn at a shop in the Outer Banks. I also bought a 40 inch circular needle and this pattern for knitting two socks at a time on the circ. needle. Of course I have just finished socks....what are your thoughts?

A close up of the yarn. Its Cherry Tree Hill supersock merino. It feels fantastic---and the colors are gorgeous!

There is also this: the ribbed pullover with black alpaca (double it). I got this yarn a while ago--deliciously soft and I hear pretty easy to work with.

And last, this knitting pure and simple pattern for a top down henly t-shirt. Knit with Blue Sky Alpaca's organic cotton. I got this with the intention of making it this summer--but it is something that can be worn under jacket as well. The yarn is the Sand color--a nice neutral.

Here is a close up of the pattern. So let me know what your selections are--I guess I should be glad that I have these choices......I hope everyone goes out and enjoys this beautiful day!

2006-09-25T08:43:00.000-04:00

BIRTHDAY LUNCH!!

Here is my wonderful S & B group! The birthday girl is the one in the middle. She was very surprised. It was pretty funny actually, as the three of us ladies had arrived early and were waiting for Patricia....and then I noticed that she was sitting outside by herself. We were not sure if she was coming in or not--so we all walked out and surprised her. It was great. The food was amazing. I really wanted to lick my plate, but propriety kept me from doing that. Here she is right before she opened the gift:

I think I caught her off guard--but here she is! She is just wonderful and has become such a dear friend. I feel like I can tell her ANYTHING! Here she is with the scarf (of course the weather has been warm here so she really doesn't need it yet)
It looked great on her. I was so happy that I chose that particular color. I have to admit, that finishing this scarf in time for the luncheon was a "personal best" for me. I don't think I have ever started and finished something in such a truncated period of time. The four of us are determined to start meeting again--summer is hard with kids and then three of us sent a child off to college this fall--and the fourth just sent a child off to France! For all of you moms out there with young'uns, savor these moments even when it seems hard. Because one day they will be gone and the ache you feel for them will be real.

So, off to finish the second sock (see previous post) and to enjoy a couple days off, then the final weekend of my show. Happy Birthday again, Patricia!

2006-09-22T10:29:00.000-04:00

YOU PUT IT WHERE???!!!!

Yep--that's right. You put it in the washing machine. After all that expensive yarn, all those stitches, all that luscious softness, you hold your breath.............you lay it gently on top of the washing machine, weighing your options. Do I really want to do this...yes, I know the end product IS beautiful. But, what if this particular yarn batch doesn't felt? What if it turns into this giant ball of lint? Oh my...so you make the decision to go ahead and put it in. You are going to gamble and see if it works out.

And then, this is what happens. Oh my.......its' gorgeous, its' beautiful, its' everything you KNEW it would turn out to be.

Here's a close up. It looks like velvet, doesn't it? And it hasn't really lost all of its softness. In fact, it is very soft, and since the stitches are barely noticable, it looks like a solid piece of fabric. Ok, so I guess those pattern writers know what they are talking about. I can't believe I was able to finish this....I don't think I have ever knit anything as quickly as this. I am giving it to my friend today at lunch (a surprise) and will post pictures of that later.

I guess now, I should finish those socks I started a while ago!

2006-09-19T10:08:00.000-04:00

PROGRESS!

Here's the progress on Vintage Velvet so far....I actually didn't do much over the weekend...I had 5 shows this past weekend (did I mention that I am a part-time actress??), but between today and yesterday...I am making up for lost time. Of course alot of that has to do with the fact that we are having a get together for the recipient of this scarf--and I would like to have it done by then. Are you noticing a theme with my work? Yes, I work much better under a deadline. I guess I like having a specific ending point---hummm what does that say about me? Either I am a terrible procrastinator, or I have some bizarre form of OCD and this is how it manifests itself. I guess I should be grateful...I mean it could be worse. Anyway..this thing feels (I know I've said it before) just luscious. I am feeling the way I did when I made it before, and that is "do I really want to felt this thing?" Will it come out this soft? The answer is no, BUT, the end product is equally beautiful. I will take a wait and see approach with this one.

Have you all seen this magazine? I picked it up the other night while doing some late night shopping--you know the kind where you are there getting everything from milk to feminine stuff (sorry but there it is), and you see this magazine and think--hummm that looks good and before you know it, you've added it to your pile. Well you can imagine my surprise and shock when, as I was paging through it before going to sleep I saw a familiar face.

Yep--that's Ann Shayne ladies and gents. One half the voice behind that great Mason Dixon blog. I did not even hear her mention it in her blog. But there she is looking beautiful I might add, with her essay on her most memorable meal. I have to say I was a bit confused at her selection: "Tang and Saltines", but after reading the essay, it all became much clearer. She really is such a nice person and I for one am so glad that she is such a popular face for knitters everywhere!

I just wish that I lived near her, and could go knit with her whenever I wanted. Wouldn't that be cool.

And last, but certainly not least, is this piece of partially embroidered linen. I frequent local thrift shops and just thrill when I come across a piece like this. But I am also saddened in a way. I can't help but think of the person who started it and I then begin to wonder about what happened to him/her and why it never got finished. To me, they are like orphans...beautiful and just needing a loving hand to take care of them and finish what someone else started. So for all of a dollar, I bought this, the yarn, the hoop, the little silver scissors and a beautiful sheet of directions from "Elsa Williams Needlecraft". I did a google search on her and apparently she was definitely a leading force in women's needle art during the last century. Her parents were living in South Dakota and taught her to do all this incredible stitchery at a very young age. So, for just a dollar, I feel a special connection to this incredible lady and I WILL finish this piece; for her and for the person who lovingly started it.

2006-09-15T09:59:00.000-04:00

Lion Brand going upscale!! Just got this catalogue in the mail. Of course, I love all things catalogues! This one is really beautiful. They have some gorgeous yarns. I have to admit there is a part of me that is somewhat snobbish about my yarn--the thought of any yarn made with (that dreadful 'A' word) was enough to send me into a tizzy. I would immediately go to my LYS and shop for something pure and natural. When I would hear people talk about going to Michael's to buy yarn, I would smile and think "well they just aren't buying very good yarn".

Of course, this catalogue is going to change my mind about that. I have gone to the store and felt some of this yarn and it is great! The microspun is slick and soft (use wooden needles!) and the cashmere blend is as good as any I have seen. They offer a pattern in the catalogue for the cashmere blend. Check out this sweater.

I think its really interesting and it is knit in the cashmere blend. I wonder if the shaping would be hard on the yoke---ha ha, since when have I ever worried about that. I think I will have to go and get me some of this yarn.

Here's the (slow) progress I am making on Vintage Velvet:

I only wish that you could put your hand on the screen and feel this wonderful fabric. The pattern is not hard at all, but you do have to pay attention. If you have read my blog, you know that I am also an actress and have been performing in a show all month. We perform Thursdays through Sundays, so its not leaving me much time to knit---I hate that. I am on stage the whole time, so no backstage knitting either. Bummer. The reviews have been great though so its all worth it.

Let me know what you all think of the Lion Brand Catalogue!

2006-09-13T11:11:00.000-04:00

Meet my beautiful great nephew, Adrian James--we call him AJ! I get the privilege of babysitting him on Wednesdays. The first thing he does when he gets here (besides running up a giving me a HUGE hug) is getting his trains out. He absolutely LOVES these things. We usually build a huge track and then he plays for hours, making up funny sounds and having a ball.

Here he is in close-up. I am getting a sneak peek at what its like to have a grand-child because we only get him one day a week and we shower him with so much love and affection--and then we get to send him home to mom and dad again. Its great, I tell ya.

Here is my new project. Its from the book "Scarf Style" which is a great book. Lots of interesting patterns and inspiration. I am using Meunch's Touch Me yarn, which is absolutely gorgeous and absolutely expensive. I ordered the amount needed from www.jimmybeanwools.com and I got my package in two days!! Also, shipping is free on orders over $75 and, interestingly enough, that's exactly how much 5 skeins of this stuff costs. It is truly worth it though--hey remember, no one said knitting was cheap!

Here is the yarn close up:

The color is Light Mauve and it is going to look beautiful. It is for a very special friend of mine. (I hope she is not reading this). When you are done knitting, you put it in the wash (I know, I know) and it felts and looks like velvt. I have made this scarf before so I am not as nervous about it as I once was. Here is a picture of a finished scarf--I am thinking that this one will come out looking almost this same color:

The cable in the middle is stitched so that it is the same front and back. On either side of the cable panel is a modified rib stitch. It is a 22 row repeat, but very easy to learn. Still, I never like to put it done in the middle of a repeat--or I just leave a post it note with the row I am on--the old brain is going!

2006-09-11T08:04:00.000-04:00

So I finished the kimono and hat in time for the baby shower yesterday. The weather was beautiful, the food was incredible and the mother-to-be radiant (she thought she looked fat, but in truth she looked wonderful!) I ended up striking up a conversation about knitting with a couple of really neat gals. One actually brought her knitting....I love that! She was using her grandmother's needles and showed me how her grandmother used to knit holding the long needles under her arms and primarily using her wrists--I am so used to using circulars, that those long needles frighten me--I can't imagine when that was all there were. Anyway, here is a picture of the completed kimono. Notice that I crocheted a picot edge to the bottom. I just thought...hummm...it needs a little something extra. So Sunday morning, a hour before the shower, I am furiously crocheting the edge. Keep in mind I am a closet crocheter--its not my thing and I don't do it alot, but I love the edging and crocheting it goes sooooo much faster than knitting it on. A close up on the picot edging:

This picture is not too clear--I realize, but it shows a little bit of the picot edge. It really added another dimension to the whole piece.

2006-09-07T15:43:00.000-04:00

So, what started as this late Tuesday, ended as this late Wednesday:
This is the hat I made to go along with the baby kimono. The hat is knit in the round in one piece then the petals (6 of them) are knit separately and then attached. The stem is knit directly from the top of the hat, then you switch to two double points and make the I-cord pretty much whatever length you want. For those of you who have made I-cord, you know how easy and fun it is. And FAST! Before you know it, you have yards of it...knowing when to stop has been the hard part for me.

So onto the booties--this shower is Sunday...think I've got enough time??

2006-09-05T11:11:00.000-04:00

FINISHED KIMONO! Here it is. I have not sewn up the sides yet. I am thinking of weaving a ribbon through the eyelet area on the front--what do think? I also need labels for my handknits. I have not found one I like yet. I want something new and original; I am thinking of just creating my own with some cotton and a single strand of thread or floss--and some creative embroidery. Hummmm...sounds interesting.

Here is my next project to go along with the Kimono--its from this book which is absolutely gorgeous. It has the cutest and easiest patterns. I can really see making most if not all of these
adorable baby/kids hats. I am using a beautiful cotton yarn in solid pink with white accents. Like I said before I really hope that this baby turns out to be a girl!

Here is the pattern that I am using:
Isn't it great! I highly recommend this book to any new, intermediate or experienced knitter!

2006-09-01T13:11:00.000-04:00

BABY BOOTIES! Here is the pattern, yarn and needles. These needles are SMALL! They are almost like toothpicks. The wonderful owner of my LYS was quick to point out that there were no refunds on broken needles. Although they are tough (bamboo) she said they sometimes break. Which pretty much is the kiss of death for me. I like wooden needles for this kind of work because it provides a little "catch" with the yarn--you know what I mean. The pattern is from Summer 2005 Interweave Knits. It looks a little daunting; short row heels etc. I feel my sock knitting learning curve is being stretched to its limits (did I just mix my metaphor?) I learned how to knit a sock on two circulars, then I learned how to do it on one long circular, and now, I am back to 5 needles but all these new techniques. AHHHH STOP! I love this yarn though. Crisp, clean white cotton. It is soft and delicate and feels great with every stitch I make. Its the perfect knitting trifecta: a great yarn, great needles and a wonderful pattern.

The remains of Hurricane Ernesto are making their way up to Maryland today. We are finally getting some rain. But as is typical we will completely deluged today and tomorrow and then we will go weeks again without it. I shouldn't complain really, at least it made the temperature drop. So, stay dry people.

2006-08-29T12:41:00.000-04:00

Ok--so what I'm doing is this:

Nursing two sick kids who should be at their first day of school. Well, actually the younger one did go yesterday and then promptly threw up everywhere, whereupon the school called me to come and fetch the little guy. He pretty much slept all day long. I dosed him with ginger ale, saltines (gee, I hope he isn't pregnant) and he watched Spongebob non stop for about 5 hours(is that good for you?)

Meanwhile, his older brother developed the same sickness overnight....and is pretty much laid up as well. Today was his first day of school--not a good omen.

What I should be doing is:

Yep--Sitting on my back porch and knitting. Or reading about knitting. Or reading about knitting in a magazine or, well you know. I just got a new knitting book and I have not been able to put it down. Have you all read this one? It is absolutely beautiful! Its called "Inspired Cable Knits" Oh Fiona Ellis--where have you been all my life. This book is part patterns, part photography and part philosophy. The patterns are gorgeous. I don't know if I will ever try one though, as they seem the type that you really have to concentrate on. Although throughout the book, she keeps saying encouraging things and it almost makes you feel like your best friend is sitting right there with you. I am also very busy rehearsing a show. As I said before, I perform locally in regional theater. I open in a show this Friday. "Copenhagen" by Michael Frayn. Check out the website: www.cplayers.com

Leave comments-would love to hear from you. Gotta go...there's some chicken soup that needs makin'!

2006-08-24T09:32:00.000-04:00

Here is a great picture of those Mason Dixon gals! (and me of course) Thank you Kay for your comment on the blog. I feel so special. First Stephanie, and now you. If I could just get Ann to post then it would be like winning the Trifecta! This photo was taken at Stitch DC, up on Capitol Hill in DC. What a great shop. They had all this great food--remember the mini burgers? Their yarn choice was excellent; Kay and Ann were wonderful. I am not sure but I think that was sort of in the middle of the whirl wind tour--you guys must have been exhausted! But you sure didn't seem it. It was such a wonderful evening. I live about 45 minutes away and had to make many special arrangements to get there--kids pick up, etc. And I brought along a non-knitting friend. She loved you guys too and thought about taking up knitting herself...albeit only briefly. Once we were out of your creative orbit; she snapped back to her senses!

Today my 16 yr. old has Junior class orientation. The two elementary kids are still home, enjoying their last day of freedom. I am in my home office blogging and working on a sock I picked up from my WIP basket. This is yarn I got in Germany (read first blog about having to act out knitting in order to buy yarn in Germany!) I am using Cat Bordhi's book "Socks soar on Circular needles". Its a great book and I feel like she is sitting right next to me helping me along.

I have just finished the gussest (I think) and am going to keep going down the foot. Cat's advice about using longer circular needles is a good one. I wish I had bought longer ones, as these tend to get all wonky and in the way with each other. But unfortunately my LYS only had this size in this length only and you know we knitters are an inpatient lot and I Just Wantd To Get Started. The really cool part about the circulars is that you can comfortably try the sock on for exact measurement. Its great. Got to get going--have a wonderful day.

2006-08-23T16:41:00.000-04:00

Remember I told you about my sister's wedding. Well, here is a picture of them right after the actually ceremony. That is my brother's head in the foreground. Right as I snapped this, he bent down---brothers! (they never change) It really was a great day.

I have almost finished the front of the kimono and will post pictures of it soon. In the meantime, I am busy rehearsing a show which opens next week. In my first post, I mentioned that I am a sometime actress. I actually majored in theater in college and have the privilege of directing at the local high school for the past ten years. I always manage to perform at least once or twice a year depending on the role. Lately, I have been devoting alot of my performing to one particular theater group: The Dignity Players. The creative director of this troupe is commited to producing theater with a message; more often than not a message regarding social justice and peace. The production values are excellent and he always manages to attract the most incredibly talented perfomers and artists to work with him. Right now, I am rehearsing a show called: "Copenhagen" by Michael Frayn. It is very interesting and involves the race to build the atomic bomb. Specifically it deals with the troubled discussion that took place in 1941 between Niels Bohr and Werner Hesienberg regarding the bomb. If you are in Annapolis, go check it out. www.cplayers.com

2006-08-22T10:12:00.000-04:00

Here is the baby kimono with the left side almost finished. Its a bit tricky because the increases and decreases seem odd--but just keep following the directions and it will all make itself clear.

I guess that is good advice for alot of things--if we just trusted the directions, everything would make itself clear...huummm...something to think about.

I want to thank the wonderful person who commented on my blog. As an official newbie any and all comments are very much appreciated. I even got an email from the Goddess herself, yes, really...drum roll please...The Yarn Harlot. I feel as if the great knitting Goddess has stepped off her throne and personally touched me with her magic knitting needle. SHE took the time to email me?? Wow, how cool is that! I mean, her blog is incredible. Its funny, informative, creative and inspiring. Thank you Stephanie for your words of encouragement. Oh, and by the way, I switched my setting so anyone can leave a comment (thanks for that too!)

Here is my daugher's room--see previous posts. I have a daugher that is a plebe at the United States Naval Academy (GO NAVY, BEAT ARMY)--anyway, after a long mourning period ( and for those of you about to take your first to college, my thoughts are with you, because it is one of the hardest things to do!), I set out to clean out her room and make it more MY room. I left the bed of course, I assume she will come home at some point but everything else was packed up, given away or otherwise found a new home. Now, I have a great "office" and my WIP's (of which you see here) have a new home as well. Now, this is just some of my yarn....I can't bring all of it in here--because #1. it all wouldn't fit and #2. if my husband and kids actually saw how much I have, they would have me committed.

Anyway, thanks again for the comments. I look forward to many more....Have a wonderful, peaceful and joyful day!

2006-08-21T09:58:00.000-04:00

Good Morning! Gosh, I am so NOT excited about school starting. I know I must be the only woman out there who is not! But you see, I love summer. I love the slowness, the lazy days, the sitting out on the porch just looking at the trees--and the unscheduled days. The school year brings with it necessary scheduling, deadlines, and of course, the dreaded homework. I have four kids, one in college (GO NAVY), one in high school, one in middle school and one in elementary school. Wow--what are the odds of that! We start this coming Friday. Of course, they don't want to go, except maybe for the one at USNA; she always LOVED the beginning of the school year. Yeah, she was one of those kids who really got into all the new stuff--organization is her middle name. I keep hoping that if I don't mention it, they will see the start of a new year as fun---yeah right. Everytime I drop the "s" bomb (school), my youngest starts to well up, my middle schooler pretends she doesn't hear me and my high schooler informs me that "I'm going to play some golf Mom". So to all you other moms out there who, like me, are NOT looking forward to an entire weekend of contact papering soft cover workbooks and covering hard back books, of writing your child's name on EVERY possession they own, of having to be the cheerful one "won't it be good to see your friends again?!", of once again buying all those lunch fixings for home, having to brush up on whatever history they are doing now, and most of all, getting them up in the morning and ready to go--then join me in a communal sigh of sadness at the passing of another summer. And, though not to get too maudlin, the passing of another year in our kids' lives. I know the year officially ends Dec. 31st, but to me, the school year has always been a better marker. I have a bin for each of my children and in that bin are folders marked "Pre-School", "Kindergarten", etc. all the way up through 12th grade. The school year provides an easy reference point to me and I am sure to so many others. Ask me what my daughter was doing in 1994? No idea. What was she doing in Kindergarten? Well, then it all comes flooding back, right?! So let's all try to keep a stiff upper lip and enjoy this beautiful week!

2006-08-19T09:32:00.000-04:00

Ok--so today is my sister's wedding. Eight girls in my family(yep, you heard right) and she is the last one to officially tie the knot. Its like the end of an era. The rehearsal dinner last night was fun--it was a giant crab feast at a restaurant on the water near Baltimore. The service was great, the weather warm but pleasant and the bride and groom looked to be very happy. My sister and fiance have been together a while so both families were happy that they are making it official.

Remember I told you that I had a daughter at the Naval Academy. Well here she is with my other daughter on Parents Weekend last week. See, what they say about a man in uniform, works for a woman too! She is excited to get out today for the wedding--had to get a special chit. Not much new on the knitting front--I guess I can't bring my knitting to the wedding, huh. There really is not any other place I'd rather be, but sitting on my back porch, having my coffee and knitting. Now, throw in a book on tape/cd and I am in heaven!

2006-08-18T12:08:00.000-04:00

Good afternoon--I am posting some photos of my current WIP's. Here is the baby kimono from Mason Dixon. The Pattern looks daunting but if you just dive right in, it pretty much works itself out. I love it and the yarn is wonderful!

The yarns on the left are what I am going to use for the hat and the booties. I think it will be adorable. Its quick--so it appeals quite nicely to my adult onset A.D.D.

2006-08-17T16:29:00.000-04:00

Good afternoon!
Ok, I know two posts in one day?! It boogles the mind. Anyway, I wanted to update this with my current project. I am knitting the baby kimona from Mason Dixon knitting book. I am using a variegated pink mercerized cotton yarn from Fantasy Naturale. To go along with this, I am using a pattern from "Itty Bitty Baby Hats" (by the way one of the BEST knitting books with the cutests hat patterns) and to tie it all together tiny baby booties knit in the most beautiful cotton yarn from Dalegarn and using a pattern I found in the Summer 2005 issue of Interweave Knits. I will post pictures soon...very soon.

2006-08-17T10:47:00.000-04:00

Good morning--what a beautiful day it is. Ok, so now I have a blog. My sisters (I have 6) will all tease me about this. Of course, who is going to actually read this--who knows. Anyway, I know how much I have depended upon the good advice of those out there in the cyber world. So let's try this thing.

Things to know about me:
I am a gulp 43 old (double gulp) wife and mother.
I have four wonderful children (most of the time)
My oldest just went off to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis!
We also live in Annapolis which makes seeing her that much easier!
I love to knit
I love to buy yarn
I love to buy knitting books
I have more yarn than I will ever use
I keep buying it anyway
Whenever I travel, here or abroad, the first thing I google is yarn shops in the area
This was especially interesting in Germany where I had to act out knitting in order to get directions to where I could buy yarn.
I have a dog that I love named Vincent.
He really acts more like a cat than a dog, but he's my pound puppy and I love him
I have 6 sisters and three brothers
Yep, all from the same mom and dad who just celebrated 47 years together.
I am an actor and director in local theater.
I am in the process of rehearsing a show right now.
I am on stage the whole time and this upsets me because I have no time to knit backstage.
Hear that Julia Roberts, you are not the only knitting actress!!

I look forward to meeting other knitters out there and to talking with you all.