half day pj day

I got a call last night with ten minutes to go at work. It was the woman who works Sundays saying she was still not feeling well and the bug she had last weekend (she didn't work last Sunday either) had come back full force, making her leave her other job early. I told her not to worry, we'd figure it out and to let us know as soon as she could about Monday. I told Ahmed that I'd just plan on working, that I'd left Chas a message on his phone, but it would be taken care of.

I got a message back from Chas last night when we were at Shannon and Kiley's eating and playing Scene It, the Turner Classic Movie edition (I got one single answer right...). When I listened he said he'd go ahead and work today. I told Kev on the way home that I'd still plan on working, I'd call Chas this morning and tell him I could cover it. When I called him, he told me not to worry about it since he was not going to be in town next weekend. I told him if she called off for tomorrow, I'd work and we'd figure something out so he wasn't always having to cover when people are sick. He seemed to like that idea. I totally hope that she doesn't call off, but he said he'd call me and let me know. If I don't hear from him by 4:30 I'll give him a call to check in.

I've been loving working two days in the office (this past week was the first week of that) and can hardly wait until it's the real three day office week with two on the floor.

So now, I'm still in my pj's, I'm knitting (when not writing here), while Kev is watching the Bears play the Dolphins. I've got a call out to a friend to see if she wants to get together and sit and knit today and she's going to call me later after she's done with a couple of errands she already had on her plate. I hope we can get together tonight. I always have such a lovely time with Amy. It's funny to think she (as well as some of my other friends) started out as a customer.

Happy Sunday everyone. :) If you can, I highly suggest a PJ Day!

the hook is coming

Years ago in college (no I won't count and figure out how many it's been because that gets a wee bit depressing) Jill and I were walking down the hill from class. We saw this poster on a telephone poll for a band. We looked at each other, neither saying a word, and started laughing. Finally...Dancer Bob?

It wasn't until later we realized their name was Danger Bob. And they had this song that was infectious, even to this day.

"the hook is coming and the hook is coming and the hook is coming...." and of course I can't remember any other words. But here it is .....

Man, life was so...different...then. I love my life now, but I love my life from then too. Sigh.

six is my favorite number

I took six pictures in Cali. Yep, six.

Two of Oscar. Four of the tables before anyone got there (actually it was still in the day when Julianne and I were setting up). I didn't get any in the evening when the candles were lit. I didn't get any of my parents or my cousin or my mom's best friend. I didn't get any of Julianne or David. I did get one of Kev, but that was because Oscar was sitting in his lap.

I'm tired. I'm glad I have off today. Kev ended up calling in because he just doesn't feel great. He wasn't feeling great the entire weekend. We did have a wonderful time visiting with everyone. Thankfully we did get some quiet time with Julianne and David. Granted that time was almost always in the car, but at least we got to just be with them.

The cats were spoiled rotten. Shannon and Kiley left us with a fabulous Jack-O-Lantern waiting on our porch (pictures will be taken and shared). Josie was happy to see us, although I suspect she had a blast with Diana and Lawrence. We are all happy to be home.

Here are just a few of the photos I took...really, a few of the few.

headin' back to cali

We head out tomorrow morning. It's going to be a whirlwind weekend for us.

Friday:
bake muffins, meet David's family, eat dinner

Saturday:
wake early, make tartlets, host shower, clean up, hopefully get some time to go to a yarn shop with David's mother, get ready for reception, go to reception.

Sunday:
nothing but visit with family. leave at 7:00 pm

Even though it doesn't seem like a lot, it really is. There will be running around and setting things up for the party and helping calm my sister's nerves.

Have a great weekend everyone. We're off now to take Josie to Camp Goodtimes!

camp goodtimes

Josie has no clue what is in store for her this weekend. I know she will be taken to new places, hiked with and loved on. She will miss us for a while, but our hopes are she has such a good time and she is such a good girl that Diana and Lawrence will beg to watch her again in November!

Things are slow today. When things are slow, time stands still. It's no biggie, except I have better things to do with my time than stare out the window at work. I could be getting things ready to pack. I could be giving myself a mani and a pedi. I could be lamenting the fact that even though the boots shipped, they shipped out yesterday from Jersey. I could be drinking some wine while doing all of those things. Although that would mean I'd have to have some wine at home...wait, we do!!! We'll have to see what kind of mood I'm in when I get home tonight.

The back room is picked up. The note has been written to my coworkers. I am ready to get the hell out of here. But the clock only reads 4:40pm. An hour and twenty to go.

Maybe I'll continue brainstorming on marketing ideas for increasing foot traffic at two of our locations. I'm thinking some kind of benefit thing, buy a pair of clogs, we'll donate $5.00 to a non profit animal rescue (I'm thinking of the place where we got Josie from). Ideas, they are filtering through my brain.

everybody loves a list

1. mani and pedi

2. pack clothing

3. finalize exactly what knitting i am taking

4. write note for shannon and kiley about the cats

5. write note for diana and lawrence about the dog

6. pick up house (nobody likes coming home to clutter)

7. take copious amounts of benadryl to rid my body of the snot

8. get toiletries ready

9. pray boots make it here in time

10. cry because i know they won't

11. write post about not being around this weekend because we're heading to los angeles to celebrate my sister's nuptuals

12. buy wedding gift

13. blow nose

14. prepare for everything

aaahhhhh-chooooooo

All day yesterday I was sneezing. I dropped Kev at work and Jill and I were going to return some mis-sized pants to the Rack. Everytime we'd get out of the car and go into a store, sneezes. Runny nose was also around.

I am not sure why my allergy gnomes decided yesterday was the day to attack...at least I wasn't sure until Jill noticed something very important. The car, it was COVERED. IN. POLLEN! WTF?!?

So, I was drippy and sneezy and unhappy for the entire day because the car needs to be washed. I asked Kev to do that sometime this week on his way home so that when we go to the aiport on Friday morning I am not having to get into the car of sneeze again. That'd make for a lousy trip on a plane for anyone. Snot on a plane. Now that is a movie title!

if you want

To see feathers and fans, check here. If you are my sister, DON'T LOOK!

The image of her is just as she blocks. I plan on getting pretty and artistic shots of both hers and his scarves that are done and post it there.

Right now, I must decide if I am going to wear it once to give it great energy before giving it away. I really want to!!! Plus, the kids at the coffee shop (workers and regulars) will oooh and ahhh over it and be excited to see her done. Okay, I'm wearing it!

Make it a great weekend everyone!

just call me mrs. v.p.

So this morning Ahmed and I are speaking. We're talking of the differences between me and Chas at work. What he will take care of and what I will over-see. He hemmed and hawed and finally spit out that he'd like us to have titles for our new jobs.

Chas will be the Operations Manager (a title I'd approached Ahmed about earlier when the job shift happened). I will be the V.P. of Marketing. Hmmm, I like.

Tonight I am going to stay late and rearrange the downtown store to increase flow through the store. I am not telling Ahmed that I am doing this until it is done and he comes in and asks "when did you do this?" cuz I know he will.

Kev's meeting me here and we'll have pizza next door before we head home for a quiet night. I'm pretty excited. And I've not been able to wipe this smile off my face all day.

but must knit

I want to post here, really I do. I want to say amazing things. I want to share what's going on here. And in these last words I do share...I must knit. November is not far away at all! ;)

just cuz

I read this at Crazy Aunt Purl and decided it was time...

four jobs i've had:
1. rehabilitated a horse so he could be used in riding lessons
2. sold draperies
3. worked in a bowling alley
4. manage operations in a local shoe store chain (that'd be now)

four movies i can watch over and over:
1. Overboard
2. Harry Potter(s)- any of them
3. Breakfast Club
4. Sweet Home Alabama

four places i have lived:
1. fort gordon, ga
2. leavenworth, ks
3. lawrence, ks
4. portland, or (and yes, i've only ever lived in four)

four television shows i love to watch:
1. What Not to Wear
2. Design Remix- or is it Find and Design?
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Biggest Loser

four places i've been on vacation:
1. Germany
2. Hawaii (getting ready for the second time next month)
3. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
4. Fayetteville, Arkansas

four of my favorite dishes:
1. Beef stew (what's for dinner tonight?)
2. Cobb Salad
3. Pizza
4. Bagels in the morning

four websites i visit daily:
1. Plaza Jen's
2. Yarn Harlot
3. Left Handed Catastrophe
4. Knit Meister

four bloggers i am tagging:
nobody...if you want to do it, go for it.

on turning 34

Yesterday was my birthday. Kev and I had a party. It was rowdy. Everyone got home safely.

I have realized, looking back to last night, that I think I'm to the point where rowdy isn't me anymore. I love quiet evenings with friends sharing stories, playing games, drinking wine. I enjoy the soft music in the background. Not being the party, just enhancing it. I'm happy when friends come together and share the experience of simply being.

So I am one year older and many years wiser this morning. Even though the party was not quite what I'd hoped for, or expected, it did show me a thing or two. I appreciate all Kev did, because I simply invited a few people. He made the food, cleaned the house, etc. However, I won't ask him to take it all on again. We are a team. We work well as a team.

another week passes

I swear time gets away from me. It's crazy. Training has been going well. Knitting has been going (I'd love to say well, but there is one yarn that eludes me as to what pattern it wants me to use- I've figured it out, but now have to wait until one of the others is off its needles so I can use them).

Work is work. We are really thinking that by next month, the two are going to be ready. I've told them both we'd like it to be so. I think it may just work. For a while I might stick to T-Sat and just go in for part of the day Sat instead of the full day like normal. It should be great.

Okay, bus time is nearing and I must make sure things are ready.

Happy Birthday to all others who have birthdays on this very day! ;)

helpers in all shapes and sizes

I went and got my hair cut yesterday. Realizing I was that much closer to the yarn shop, I zipped over to get another ball of the kidsoft silk mohair. I had just about run out and was at the halfway mark of feathers and fans. I swear, it knits quickly, but seems to be taking forever.

While there, I found some new yarn for one of the other scarves. I decided I don't like Cascade all that much. At least not the superwash. I think it feels cheap. I know, I know. Yarn snob? Actually I am going to use it, but not for the scarf. I am thinking a blanket for a good friend's baby (he's due to join us in January). I am thinking of pairing it with the Lanette I made the sleeves with (which reminds me, I must post them soon).

Anyway, about that helper. He is just making sure it's soft and comfortable?

Okay, I'm off to work more on the f & f and do some laundry that didn't get finished yesterday (yes, while I was away my dear husband actually worked on the laundry!!!).

knit on. (this was supposed to be posted there instead of here....oh well)

wow, where do they hide the cameras?

Find your own pose!

the time is 6:30

Simon has started his song and dance. Nice because he has started an hour later than normal. I do not stir, nor do I let him know I am awakened by his antics. A while later, Kev gets up and feeds everyone. A small smile passes my lips. Ahhhh, to sleep in a bit. Normally, Kev will get up and feed everyone then come back to bed to sleep in too, but not this am. I hear him getting dressed. I squint open my eyes and look at him. He announces he is taking Josie to Angel's Rest.

I have two feelings rush through me and I'm conflicted. I long to get up and throw on my hiking togs to join them, yet I am a bit excited about the morning by myself with the cats, the laundry and my knitting. I tell him to remember I have a hair appointment at noon and the two of them are off. Josie didn't even know anything was happening. She had no time to get herself worked up and barking.

So I sit here sipping my latte with my feet up on the coffee table writing. Soon I will put on some music and continue down the knitted path I have started for myself. I only have a month and two weeks to finish three projects. I can do it, easily.

can't think straight

I have been training people this week. This means a couple of things. 1. My brain is now Jell-o like in constistancy and 2. I lost a lot of time where I could be blogging because I have to set a good example. Okay, the second isn't 100% true because I really only blog at work when I have everything done and that's usually never, or the end of the day whichever comes first.

I had so many things to write about this week. Did I write anything down? No. Do I currently remember anything I thought I would? No.

DO I feel guilty for not updating this all week? Not a chance. Heh, I have a life outside of blogging kids. Although what that life consisted of this week is a blur.

I do know we went out on Wendesday night to see Guster and our friend Bob was in town. We all had a fabulous time and Kev, he was the first to say "you guys ready to go?" I get to hold that over him for a little while. You see, when I surprised him by saying I wanted to join him for the show his response was, "Just make sure you don't want to leave halfway through." Now, the band was halfway through the encore when Kev suggested we leave because they'd played all the songs he'd wanted to hear (same here). But I could have totally stayed until the bitter end. AND I had to get up for yoga in the morning before heading to the office to finish the organizing of the boxes of shoes and clogs (meaning I climbed stairs carrying my weight in shoes many times that day which resulted in my legs hurting still to this day...thankfully I did practice yoga prior to doing all that which I am sure helped me not be in more pain had I not).

Okay, must go figure out dinner. We're feeling like Chinese tonight and maybe we'll get lucky and find a really great place in our hood.


peace out.

we'd like to offer you the job

On Friday Ahmed and I interviewed two people who were looking for part time gigs. One is a friend through a friend and the other is a guy who, for the past two and a half years, has been popping in to see if we are hiring anyone. We'd interviewed him when he first applied, but we were looking for full time and he for part time. Not this time, baby! He's on board!!! I'm really pretty happy about both people. Melissa has great energy and Drew is very much a people person. I think the two will be great!

This means, of course, I must train people. Not my favorite thing to do, but I can do it. This morning, Drew comes in for his first round. We'll go over the different brands of comfort shoes we carry and general policies and procedures. Damn, I wish I had the handbook done...it's started at least.

Had a lovely, but quick, weekend. Got to spend time with Jill yesterday. I walked over to her house (a good 40 blocks) and then she and I proceeded to go on another walk around their neighborhood to look for houses that are for sale. Found one, but does anyone have $300,000 they could loan me?

Okay, going to finish my reheated french press coffee and put on my face for the day.

just married!

I woke up to find that I had A. missed a call from my sister last night right after their ceremony and B. received a photo of them just after they "I do'd" on my phone.

She's positively glowing. They both are, really. I'm thrilled and honored she'd want to speak with me right after they got married. And I'm sad that I wasn't around my phone when she called. I sent a text message to the new Mrs. G to call me when she had a chance.

my sister is getting married today

So my big sister is getting hitched today. Everyone raise their glass at sundown, where ever you are today, to my sister and her new husband.

I couldn't be happier!

little sister!

Kev informed me a few weeks ago that his sister would be in town on the 28th. We'd spoken about going out to eat for dinner, but then it was decided I'd make dinner so we could just sit around and relax.

She called me around 3:15 or so and an hour later I was relieved from work (I was working at the office and there is only so much organization you can do when the carpenter is taking his own sweet time). I ran to the grocery store and bought stuff to make the Mexican Corn and Bean soup. Man, I got a little carried away with the cumin! :) It was perfect though. I zipped by her hotel and picked her up and the two of us got to spend some time together before we got Kev at work. Let me tell you, I love her. She STILL will be perpetually 23 in my mind, even though she said she's turning 30 with her next birthday. I told her that I always think of her as 23 and she laughed. I think she liked it.

We went and got Kev, Josie came along. She laughed at the greeting Kev and Josie gave each other (I'd told her one of my favorite things is the wiggles from her and the laughter from him). She agreed that it was the sweetest thing.

We went home and I cooked while we all caught up. It was a perfect and relaxed evening. I'm so thrilled we'll get to see her every so often as she flies this way (she's a flight attendant). I told her that even if she doesn't have a couple weeks notice, if it's just a couple of hours...CALL US! I would change plans for her because she is family. Or, she'd be included in plans.

So now I am eating my toast and thinking about my little sister in law and how much I love her and how proud I am of her.

my dear friend comcast

So the past few days our internet connection has been spotty, to say the least. You'd be able to connect one second and the next nothing but a big blank screen. The really odd thing, is it would say we were connected. Both on the desktop and my laptop. Connection was "excellent" on this thing, but I couldn't pull any pages up at all. Kev went in on Saturday and switched out our boxes, they told him to bring our old one in and do just that. Last evening it wasn't much better so he called them and was told there was an outage reported three minutes prior to his call. Now, we are hoping that that issue is what is the real issue and that when it's back for everyone, we're not still screwed.

Thus far, today? It's been fine (knock on wood!) and I just received a call from Comcast to check on our service. Huh? Um, yes, it's working and I simply hope I don't have to call you guys back today...or ever really. But seriously? They called to check in? I'm crushing hard on Comcast right now.

my angel is a centerfold

Today was the day the bedroom got rearranged. While Kev was working on the storage room, which was a one person job, I got busy redoing our bedroom. We weren't all that jazzed with the latest configuration of furniture and I am all for changing things up when needed. During the process I take apart the bed and wash the mattress pad and bed skirt. Both are dry, but the skirt is quite wrinkled. I go back to the sewing room to get the ironing board set up so I can iron the bed skirt. I pass the bedroom and I just can't resist my dear Chloe. I tip toe back to the living room to get the camera where I'd left it after taking pictures of a scarf I am blocking. I just have to spread a little kitty porn...

but what about dirt?

We have several styles of shoes at work that are being made in suede. Lush, gorgeous, fabulous suede (ask me how I really feel). The one question that it always brings to the forefront is: "How does suede do in the rain...doesn't it get dirty?"

My new tactic, other than to say "I've got a couple of pairs of suede shoes and all you have to do is blah blah blah" is this:

Look at person's shoes. If they are scuffed and not taken care of (most of them are in that state) say, "well, doesn't leather scuff and require some tlc?" That'll make them hush up.

rain

Kev asked me the other day if I thought it was odd that he found comfort in the clouds. I told him that I didn't find it odd, I found it true. The clouds are here. I don't think they are here for the winter, as this weekend is supposed to be spectacular, but we're getting a little taste of our winter.

Tomorrow I get to go into the office and work. My boss is out of town so it's just me for the day. I plan on getting much done and many files filed. I meet a rep there when the shop opens to look at shoes and then it's upstairs for a fun filled day when he leaves. I'm looking forward to it.

Nothing exciting here. No spiders this morning (thank goddess). Just a plugged up drain. Sadly, Kev didn't get any drain cleaner on his way home tonight either. I guess he either couldn't find any at CostCo OR he found such a big container he figured we had no place to store it. I'm guessing the first (although the latter wouldn't surprise me either).

Yeah, excitement here. My brain is tired. I had to deal with annoying customers who think that just because they spend money at the store (she's bought and kept maybe two pairs of clogs) that they are above the policies. Yeah, I'm letting Chas take this one. I owe him big! I'm sure she'll have to come in and pick them up when I'm at work though. This is the woman who brings in her two dogs who are not the best with kids and when kids come in, she does nothing to keep them from wandering. It's only happened once when I was working and it won't happen again. Thankfully the mother of the kid was paying attention and the kid was a good listener. I will be asking her to keep ahold of the dogs next time the situation occurs.

Okay, that's boring. I'm going to bed.

'night.

soap gets in your eyes

Okay, I am not a huge fan of spiders and other bugs and insects. There are some I can deal with (ants I'm okay with, although NOT in my kitchen) and some that seriously make my skin feel like it is crawling (for instance the LARGE brown spiders).

So this morning as I groggily walked into the bathroom and pulled open the shower curtain and was met by the biggest brown spider I've seen in a long time...shudder!

To top it off, our drain is a bit clogged. I figured I would have to drown him with a small amount of water and then hope he would make it down the drain before it backed up (yeah, I'm not the type to carry big spiders outside OR allow my cats to chase them in fear that the spider will eat my cats).

Not. so. lucky.

I strategically tried to put things over the drain from allowing him to come back up, but everything started floating (note to self, get a snake and some drain cleaner). At one point I almost screamed, but just a squeal came out. I heard Josie rush to the door in worry (good to know that if I make scaredy cat sounds she'll be there to save my ass). I told her I was fine and to relax, which she promptly laid down outside the bathroom door, just in case I needed her (have I told you all how much I love my dog?).

Kev woke up and looked at my like I was crazed. I'll admit, I had that look of crazy in my eyes. Because not only was there one LARGE BROWN SPIDER trying to eat me from the drain, there were two whispy long legged spiders hanging out above. Normally they do not bother me. UNTIL they decide to start moving above me!!! Let me just say that although I am clean, I don't think my hair got all the shampoo out. Thankfully I have it in a bun and the headache isn't quite full blown yet.

So yes, my morning started off with a lovely surprise. Let's hope that tonight doesn't offer up anymore...

another nail bites the dust

I had beautiful nails once. It's taken me quite a long time to be able to say that. Growing up I had a picking habit. I'd pick at my nails until they were nothing more than nubs on my fingers. I would get nervous...pick. I would be bored...pick. I would just pick any old time. And then, one day many months ago, they were longer. And I didn't feel the urge to pick. So I stopped.

Last week one was about to start splitting so I trimmed it. A few days later it's next door neighbor was doing the same thing, so again the trimmers came out. Today, a dog decided to attack Josie while we were on our hike up at Powell Butte and as I was grabbing this dog and yanking it forcefully away from trying to eat my dog...the third in the row got snagged and ripped. It's okay though, small price to pay when it comes to saving my dog (although she was fine and not even bothered by the episode).

We were just walking up the butte towards our normal route. All of a sudden a yellow lab (friendly dogs, no?) came bounding down through the brush (it's switchbacks the whole way up). We said hello to it and he (yeah, unaltered) started sniffing Josie aggressively. She's not one for dogs to run up her booty so she grumbled as she normally does. Now, usually, other dogs hear it and back off of her. Not this one. He took it to mean "let's rumble" and proceeded to try to eat my dear Josie. Thankfully he had a harness with his leash still attached. Kev grabbed Josie's harness and I grabbed the leash on the other dog and seriously dragged his ass away. He was snarling and yanking, trying to get to my girl. NOT ON MY WATCH! His owner came down, apologizing. She took ahold of his leash, but not very tightly because all of a sudden, he was at it again. Kev grabbed him this time and yanked, and gave me his leash. I again, dragged his ass back up the hill to his owner. As we passed them he was just going nuts. She was saying, "you're supposed to be a nice doggie..."

My girl, she rocks even more now in my eyes. She had no injuries (you can imagine me patting her down to make sure, no?) and was not phased as we walked on. We had to pass them one more time, but this time we leashed up and made sure the woman heard us coming through so she could be ready.

labor of love and introspection

ahhhh, siblings.

vegas, baby. vegas!

I have this urge to watch Swingers...

Wendy (boss's wife): I am making reservations and wanted to make sure they worked for you.

Me: Me? I didn't think I was going to get to go this time.

W: Oh, you are going! Jan 31-Feb 4. Does that work?

Me: Seriously?! I'm going to Vegas?

W: Seriously! Vegas!

Me: Vegas, Baby! VEGAS!

There was a bit more giggling and squealing happening because that is how she and I are together.

VEGAS BABY!!!

single shot

We left for Cannon Beach around 9:00 this morning. Kev wanted to go at least once this summer, and I agreed.

Josie had never been to a beach before. Cannon Beach was decided upon because it is dog friendly and you are allowed to let your dog off leash IF they are under voice control. Josie, she's a super star!

It was so much fun to see her run and chase the seagulls (thanks birds) and drink the seawater (yes, I know it's bad and trust me...we're getting to that). She played with a few other dogs along the long walk, which quite honestly, surprised us. She's usually a keep to herself kind of dog.

As you can see, she was enjoying the running. Sadly, right after I shot this (which was the one and only picture taken), the battery in the camera died. Last night I thought about charging it up, but didn't listen to that guide. Dammit!

Anyway, we walked probably about 7 miles or so today along the beach before heading back into town where we asked the lovely lady at the Information Center of any dog friendly restaurants. She directed us to The Lumberyard. We sat in a corner on the patio. It was lovely and shaded and just fabulous. Until...Josie got sick. Thankfully we were at the end of the patio and she really wasn't too loud about it. But, that seawater came back to haunt her. She was fine once it was out of her. I gave her plenty of fresh water as well, so nobody freak out about dehydration! I totally know the potential.

We are home now after stopping at a produce stand along highway 26 and Albertsons around the corner. Laundry had been started. Nails are going to be polished. Stick is being guarded (by Josie). All is great.

i'm pretty sure

That someone stopped time. I've been at work for just three hours, but it seems more like three days. Saturdays are always like this. I think it's because it's my final day of my work week, but I couldn't swear to that idea.

I've got 16lbs (yes POUNDS) of fabric to take over to Jill's tonight to play with. She and I are hemming ourselves into a state of craziness for my sister. Julianne and David (yes, he did help) picked out the most beautiful fabrics for table clothes for their wedding celebration. She was talking about getting it all hemmed, etc. I offered my services to hem/serge/etc. and when she thought about how much 16 table clothes would cost her to hem compared to the cost of shipping, she jumped at the idea. Although she asked me several times if I was sure I wanted to take on the task. Jill said she'd help (I asked her for the use of her large, hairless floors and her suggestions. I also said if she wanted to help she could, AND it could be her gift to my sister and David). I love my best friend! There is something so satisfying about playing with the most beautiful fabrics after sewing on nylon banners last week. Yummy silk just is decadent and wonderful.

Speaking of decadent, any ideas of things to make, foodwise, for a party I'm throwing Julianne I'm calling Showered? It's the post wedding/pre party bridal shower brunch. I'm thinking Mimosas and Bloody Marys for drinks. We've got cream puffs with real vanilla filling. I was thinking a fritata of some sort. But, I was also thinking more hands only food so I will not have as much to was afterwards. Although, it really doesn't matter if I have many dishes to wash that afternoon. It allows me time at their house with Oscar (the bestest boy dog EVER...with the exception of our dear Edgar here in Portland).

Maybe I'll cruise around epicurious today and get more ideas.

Off to eat my drunken noodles with my fingers (I forgot my chop sticks at home...I suppose I could use my knitting needles though). :)

yoga/knitting...

YARN HARLOT!!!!

So, Wednesday nights are usually all about yoga. I meet Jill and Diana's house and we practice and enjoy and have a great time. Today (Wednesday) was the day Stephanie Pearl-McPhee was going to be at P0wells talking about her new book and doing a signing. Had I thought of this last week, I'd have suggested to the girls we do yoga another night this week. I'd not thought of it.

I got a call from Diana today and she indicated that she was going to have to rain check yoga. She had some things to work through and even though it pained her to have to use our class time, but she needed to do it. I called Jill and let her know. Then I emailed Kev to ask if he'd mind picking me up from Powells. :)

I got much done on the scarf I started after I finished the sleeves.

I was laughing the whole time. It's fun when an author whose writing is funny is funny in person. Often times I will listen to the authors speak about their writing

sigh

Ugh, I had this long post about what we did this weekend and you know what? It was a boring read. We had a great time with friends and hiking and knitting and...but it didn't translate well into this forum. Ah well.

The most exciting bit of the weekend? I finished the sleeves. I then proceeded to wear them at our friends house (where we were when I finished them) while we had the best time playing Catch Phrase.

I said, "Now I can start the next project!!!" and everyone looked at me like I was crazed. My knitting friends understand, though. I've started a scarf that will be making the flight to Hawaii in November. It's a pattern I've never done before. It's going to be gorgeous. I promise I'll take photos and AFTER I've given them to the family, I'll share. Since two of the four read this here *blog, I am not going to spoil any surprises. The one I'm working on, isn't for either of them though. :)
Hope everyone had lovely weekends. Since many of the blogs I read were quiet, I will assume you all did!

Back to work (where I will be speaking with my boss about a proposal I wrote him regarding my position and what I'd like to do to change it).


*does anyone else find it humorous that blogger doesn't recognize blog in its own dictionary?

this weekend

I've been a busy bee since beginning those sleeves. I've near completed them. Looking back, I wish I'd have taken pictures of them along the way, at the different stages and places they'd been (ala Yarn Harlot). Ah well, hindsight they say. There were only a few spots I made small blips, but honestly, I really have learned to love each and every mistake. I tend to remember where I was when they happen, and those memories bring a smile to my face.

I'm rather smitten and already want to make another pair for dressier occasions. This is what I will accomplish this weekend, or at least that's the plan).

And B, your socks are just going to have to wait. I have to learn how to make them first and the first pair is MINE! :)

rituals

Every Saturday I wake to my alarm at 7:00. I get up and feed the crew, letting the diggity out to go peep, before I jump in the shower and begin getting ready for my day.

Saturdays are my sacred days. I go into the city an hour early and sit at my favorite coffee shop while knitting happily away. The other regulars and I chat and have a lovely morning before we all press on to the rest of our days. Dan, works at a gallery. Mike and Nancy are just coming from the gym and have the whole day to play. Dylan and Ricky, well they work at the shop so they are staying behind. It's my little slice of heaven each Saturday morning.

I usually get a ton done on my knitting. I'm about 6 inches away from the end of the sleeves now. The boys are very sweet and ask me to show the progress I've made by donning the sleeves for them. The others all smile and give me encouragement to continue.

I love my Saturday mornings, even when they lead me straight into my work day.

seriously?

I take fifteen minutes to grab lunch because my insides are jumping around from too much coffee and not enough food, and I hate that feeling. I've been waiting for FedEx to drop off fabric for my sister's wedding celebration that I am hemming for her. You can guess when they stopped by, can't you? Now they won't redeliver until the 5th!!! ARG.

Ah well, at least my "holiday" weekend won't be spent over a sewing machine. Although I don't get any extra time off since my normal days off are Sunday and Monday. And I work retail.

So, any big plans out there blogvillians?

a year and two days

I've been doing much thinking on the fact that it has been a whole year since Katrina hit the south. I've read things that made my blood boil as well as things that made my heart sing.

I wish for those who are still here, coping with the fact that their lives took a huge veer in a different direction that day, can find peace where ever it is. I wish for those whose lives ended that day to be remembered. Not as idiots for not leaving (some could not get out, as they had no means to), but as human beings. I wish that the levees would have been upgraded and fixed since there was previous knowledge by the local government in NO that they wouldn't hold.

But my #1 wish? That we humans would recognize the fact that WE are responsible for this earth and all that is happening to it. WE are causing the warming trends. WE are littering her surface with more and more and more. WE are greedy individuals who only think of WE...well, some of us.

out of my reverie

Waking on a day like today is the hardest thing yet. It's nice and cool, so you have the covers all pulled up under your chin. It's raining and the pitter patter of rain hitting everything that gets in its way fills the air. It's dark-ish, which makes you want to close your eyes and become one with your bed.

I could have stayed in bed all day today, but because I'm responsible, I am up. I'm waiting for my turn in the bathroom. I have mentally picked out the outfit I will most likely wear today (it can change at the drop of a hat).

And there it is...my turn is here. The shower will wake me fully and take me out of my reverie.

Sigh

right below

This is the Platte City Water Tower. You're wrong if you think that is the way you say it.

It's a source of many giggles for me and various friends who lived or grew up with the commercials for some random car dealership that would have the guy say they were under this magnificent landmark.

My parents were driving me to the airport and as we passed it, I couldn't resist.

Photoshop has allowed me to play and make it look as it always has in my mind; a big glowing beacon. It really is orange, but doesn't actually glow like it's from the fiery depths of hell in real life...or does it.

toe-mate-ers

I've harvested my first batch of Besser tomatoes this morning! I've not eaten any yet, but Kev said he popped one off the plant the other day and his knees went weak it was so tasty. I think just looking at them I can tell they are going to be amazing.

I got a whole pint of these little beauties! Since we are going to our friends house for a cookout today, we will hold off and share the goodness.

One of my favorite things, after picking the 'maters, is the way my hands smell. Fresh and clean. We have one Roma that is ripening and all of the Oregon Spring (I kept calling them Oregon Sweet) are still green on the vines. They are gorgeous though and will be worth the wait!

list, gotta stick to my list

1. It is warmer today than yesterday.

2. People are nicer when it's sunny outside.

3. Organic bananas are sweet and yummy.

4. I dislike breaking down shoe boxes to put in the recycling.

5. My sleeves are coming right along and I am making much progress.

6. Friends are fabulous, especially when they are in your corner, cheering you on.

7. I have a bottle of white wine in my fridge that Kev picked up earlier in the week for me, just because.

8. My hair is CRAZY LONG!

9. My sister is getting married in a month and a week (roughly).

10. I love just about every aspect of my life right now (and am working on the one aspect I'm a little disappointed in as we speak...well, as I type).

food for thought

Kev and I went to Trader Joe's and Limbo to get ourselves things to make a gorgeous salad with grilled chicken last night. I made myself a lovely salad to take with me to work today. Now, Limbo is a local produce market where everything is organic (and contrary to what we thought would be true, it cost much less than had we gone to our regular grocery store...and I'm sure everything will stay fresher longer). Tonight we used many of the veggies (lettuce, onion, tiny cherry tomatoes) in our dinner of chicken tacos. I was fuller longer after lunch today and dinner tonight than in the past when I've had the same meals. You think organic foods play a part? I must say, I do.

Think about it. Produce you buy at a Dillons, Fred Meyers, or even an Albertsons most likely came from Mexico or California (or somewhere else). From what I hear, the fruits and veggies are picked before they are ripe and are ripened chemically many times (there is another word I am searching for but lacking the ability to think of what it is right now). Their lives in the fridge are much shorter (or out on the counter for tomatoes) because the pesticides used and the fact that they were ripened by humans, rather than humans letting them ripen on the vines or in the ground or where ever they ripen.

I was amazed at what we could get for the small amount of money we spent at both stores. At Traders we bought cans of kidney beans, garbonzos and black beans. We got blueberry bagels, a loaf of organic bread and salad dressing. All of those things came to less than $9.00. At Limbo we got an onion, some mushrooms, the most amazing tiny cherry tomatoes (our bessers are getting closer to being ripe each day), bananas, and two types of lettuce all for under $14.00. For less than $23.oo we got two meals together and I got two lunches (I made a great lunch for tomorrow with leftovers too).

I'm thinking between those two stores and CostCo, I may never have to step foot into a regular grocery store ever again!

so freaking close!

I spent the better half of this day with my dear knit friend, Jenn. She celebrated a birthday (call it the big 3-0) while I was away so we made a date for breakfast. I gave her the gift I'd gotten in Kansas (she LOVED the yarn and pattern, Dad) and we shared our past weeks events.

It was then decided I would pop over to her house which wasn't far from the place we ate at, and we'd knit a bit (while watching Thirteen Going on Thirty). I'm about an inch and a half from my right elbow on these sleeves. I'll have to take photos at some point (try when it's NOT nearly 90 degrees outside) and let you all see the progress (or finished project).

It's great, because just writing about knitting, makes me want to knit even more. Maybe I'll bust out some of the new yarn I bought and start the holiday gifts I'm planning on taking with me to Hawaii in a few months (wow, is it that close already?!?!). Mmmmm, casting on new projects. ;) Okay, I'll just go work on the sleeves.

and so i wrote

I've never written a letter to a magazine regarding an article I've read there. That is, until this morning.

I got home on Wednesday and found my super duper, DOUBLE issue of Glamour. Now, I love this magazine. I big, pink puffy heart it. It's always got moving stories of triumph and hope. And then I read the article called "Infertility in a baby-crazed world" or something like that. It was a writer who was going through phases I've already gone through. The "whyisitsomepeople whoshouldn'thavebabies canhavethemsoeasilyandICAN'T?!" Now, I'm not meaning to sound bitchy with that, it's my honest feelings...or at least it used to be. I decided a few years ago, after we'd been "trying" for a while (which truly makes me feel weird because it's like inviting your whole family into your sex life when they ask the "how is it going?") that I wasn't going to stress. In fact, I had come to a conclusion that I really didn't want to have children because what is the impact more and more people living on this earth having on this earth?!? But then I realized that if it happens, who am I to say no? If it doesn't, then my body was not designed to be able to hold life inside.

I've gotten to a good place, lately, about feeling good where we are with our life. We have a great family, just the five of us. We love Simon, Chloe and Josie so much. And more, we love each other and the time we have doing things we enjoy. I am not longing for a baby anymore. Now, mom's before you freak out and think you'll never see a grandbaby from us, relax. We aren't not trying, we aren't TRYING trying. We're simply enjoying our life. I WILL NOT take drugs that would result in me having what I have decided to call, a litter.

Then came the article. Quite honestly, it made me slightly mad, annoyed, frustrated. I don't want to go back to that place of "whynotme?!?" because I'd gotten so far away from that person I'd become. So I did what any sane person would do, I wrote Glamour a letter (well, short note). I told them of people out there who have moved on from those feelings of yearning and focused more on the here and now, rather than the thought of being inadequate because our bodies just ain't doin' it "right." Why not focus on those people too? We are here, we're real. We're probably less insane than some people who get all consumed by the baby bug that they lose site of what their life really means.

It amuses me that people who are against abortion will say "you can't play god" when it comes to ending a pregnancy. I mean, isn't that exactly what people are doing who are forcing their bodies to become pregnant?

So, to all my friends who have children (or who have been scared to tell me they are pregnant in the past because they didn't want to upset me)...I LOVE YOU ALL. I am proud of the children you have brought into this world. I will squish them all with kisses, loves and hugs each and every time I see them. Tell me the joys of the next addition to the family. Let me live it through you. For I am not sad by the fact that I am almost 34 years old and still call my animals my kids. I am thrilled to live a life I love.

funny thing happened

Okay, not really anything funny has happened since getting home. I'm home though.

I am just going to post pictures from various stages of my trip. Let's keep our fingers crossed that they all are loaded up. :)

Enjoy...

Me and Jen at knit night:

Merry, the neighbor's dog (she's a weiner dog, but I'm thinking a mix).

Fisher Ben:

Zoe and Augusta...

And that's all blogger will let me load for now. Which is fine, since Kev's coming home for lunch and I've not gotten anything made yet. Oh, and the work, it's going well, except I can't log into the work site for some reason. Photos are all ready to go though...

sitting at the airport

Yeah, the Kansas City Airport is the only place I've been able to successfully log on with my computer. Funny.

It's always the hardest thing, saying "see you later" to my parents after a lovely visit. Yesterday we had a relaxing day of doing not much. I went with Mom to get her hair done (and see Linda who was my hair stylest growing up). Then we headed home to rest before they went to meet with a caterer for an event Mom is planning for The Old Bastards for Valentine's Day next year. She's having a hoot.

I packed while they were away. With the new rules I ended up having to check my bag, not my normal thing. I'm just keeping fingers crossed that I don't have to wait forever to get it at the baggage claim in Portland (although since I picked a seat at the back of the plane, I'm hoping this plays to my advantage.

I suppose I shouldn't use too much battery now since I want to use this as music on the second flight and it's a good, long one.

I just want to say thanks to everyone who helped keep this a surprise. I also wanted to thank my parents for being them and being so much darn fun!!!

Love you and miss you already!!!

nosy rosy

I'm sitting here getting ready to update...who pops up behind me? Dad. :) He tells me he's nosy about what I'm doing.

Today we went to Lawrence for lunch with my dear friend, Kirby. We hit Free State where I had the black bean quesadillas (my favorite) and an Ad Astra (best beer). We zipped around before meeting Kirby for lunch, and I got a few things for Kev, some yarn for me as well as for my friend Jenn (my knit guru and teacher), some candles for other friends...

Today was the only day I've spent any money (this should make Kev happy). We only have plans to go to my Mom's hair appointment tomorrow so I can see Linda, the woman who cut my hair for years. The rest of the day tomorrow, nothing major planned, other than spending time with each other. It's my last day in town. I think spending time just being together is the perfect way to spend the day.

And with that, I'm done.

chaos, fish, and pizza

I headed out to Lake Lotawana yesterday to visit with our good friends. They have four of the most beautiful children. I'd not met the youngest yet, but had heard she was a heart breaker. No lies were told to me.

When I got there it seemed as though a bottle of pure energy had been opened in the room and the kids were bogarting it. The adults all looked a bit tired, but happy and relaxed. I guess our friends head out to their new lake house every weekend. I can see it is a great thing and is really allowing them to do much together as a family.

We devised the plan of feeding the little hellions, going out on the boat, coming home and putting the littlest ones down while the others went fishing on the docks (I got pictures, but my computer still isn't wanting to cooperate with Dad's airport). After fishing, the two oldest boys got bathed and headed to bed. I'm amazed because none of them really fought going to bed. They are great kids!

The four adults who were still there (myself included) then sat around and chatted while Russ and his brother in law Jerry, played poker for "real" money. They were quite funny together. At about 10:00 I decided that with the hour long drive home, I needed to be heading. Russ pulled the "stay, come on stay" routine but I had to break his heart.

The drive home was uneventful (for which I'm happy) and I got home to a dark and sleeping house.

This morning I woke to the sound of "Hon, we're having German Pancakes and they are five minutes until done." I popped out of bed and headed downstairs. After we finished and I got ready for my day I called Gale to see if she had a pot of coffee ready. Sadly she was gone for the day already (I sat and drank copious amounts with her yesterday).

I'm knitting up a storm while here. It's been so relaxing (and I don't have a dog trying to abscond with my yarn at any given moment). My closest friend from high school will be coming to the house today for lunch with her goofy baby. We'll eat and visit and then head to her mother's home to visit there too. Then we're heading to her house so I can see her husband and meet their dog, Ranger. I need some big dog lovin' so I am hoping Ranger is up to the job. :)

That's all for now.

knit night fun!

Last night was such fun. I got there a bit earlier than the original time Jen and I had agreed upon. And although I offered to wait in the car, she and JWo allowed me in. :) I swear, my parents made me leave their house early because they feared the traffic I'd hit on the way there. I swear!

I met some amazing women and ate some incredible food! Thanks to JWo for cooking for us gals. And a huge thanks to Jen for hosting this weeks knit night so I could join the fun. I'm only sad I won't be in town next week!

I worked a bit on the sleeves there and the lovely Kyra helped with a few "oops" moments. Thanks!!

This morning I got up, ate breakfast and then Mom and I went downstairs to attack the boxes of things from my childhood. I purged quite a bit. Mom was telling me things I had to keep, even though I was prepared to toss them. I have a few things to take home and others that have been piled neatly in the one large bin (I'd started with several boxes, the one large bin, and one small bin). I think Mom's happy I got it done. Happy Birthday! :)

We will be going out to dinner tonight with their friends who live across the street. I am having such a lovely time. I miss my dear Kev and the trio though.

life is good

This morning I woke after having a really horrible nightmare. There was the torture and death of my three animals. I don't even want to relive the dream...

My father and I ran a few errands this morning. We then installed a new shower curtain rod in my bathroom. It's one of those crazy bending ones to give the person in the shower more space while they are washing their hair, etc. I am now excited about seeing the difference it makes tomorrow compared to today.

This evening...I get to go meet...PLAZA JEN AND KRISTIN!!!! I can hardly wait. I will go early and have dinner with the two and JWo! Again, I can hardly wait! I will be taking my camera and possibly posting pictures of our happy fun times. I've brought the scarf I made out of the electric blue yarn Kristin dyed and spun so I can get a picture of her in it. Although, I might have to ply her full of beer or wine to get her to wear it since it's so damn hot here. I also get to snuggle on two big ol' black dogs (Polly and Suzy) at Jen's house too. It's going to be great. I need some dog love after the dream that woke me from a dead sleep at 4:30 this morning.

So, off to watch tv with my parents before I head to KC. :)

SURPRISE!

So, only a few of you have been in the loop. The reason being, you all are loud mouths and I can't trust any of you. Nah, that's not true. I just couldn't say anything here because before a few hours ago, my Mom had no idea I'd be in Kansas for the next week. Her birthday is Friday. Back before all the shit hit the proverbial fan I had the desire to come "home" to see them. Then, it was decided for me.

She was so surprised. I decided to iron my skirts that had been packed since Monday. She walked into the house, I stood there ironing, and she stopped in her tracks, almost dropping everything in her arms. I ran over to her and hugged her. It was beautiful!

Tonight we are going to dinner to celebrate.

One thing I noticed last night as I was taking the first of my red eye flight...many parents and young kids. At first I was a bit annoyed, but then they all slept. One started getting fidgety before we were landing, but that was really nothing. I was writing a post in Works to post, but then I can't get my laptop to connect to Dad's secure and locked wi-fi connection. Any ideas, would help! I can't figure out how to make it work. I have the password, but can't seem to figure out where to put it...arg!

Okay, going to go get myself ready for dinner out.

Will hopefully be posting from here a few more times, but you'll just have to wait and see I suppose. :P

glorious weekend

I am sad to go back to work today. This weekend was filled with friends and laughter and greatness.

It started Saturday night at my dear Amanda's birthday party. I met my beautiful friend through a mutual friend. I can't imagine living in Portland and NOT knowing her. Every time we go to Amanda's house for parties and what nots we are always surrounded by amazing people. You can feel how much she loves her friends and how, in turn, we love her back. She throws a mean birthday party where her guests are never left wanting anything. It was that night I was reminded why I love her so much. She is real.

After her party we zipped by our friend Jeff's house. His wife, Dayna, and baby, Cash, are out of town. His first night. He was loaded. :) He wasn't so drunk on actual beer, but I think the combination beer and no sleep for the past couple of months. We didn't stay too late, but made plans to go back the next day to grill out with him. Josie got to go too, so Shae and she were happy to get to hang.

Sunday I went over to Close Knit (read favorite yarn shop in town!) and picked up some yarn for a few of the projects I've mentioned here before. I also figured out what patterns I am going to knit two of the yarns up into. I spent a couple of hours there knitting on the sleeves (which I knit on at Jeff's the night before and ROCKED!). It is now almost up to my elbow!!! Don't worry, I'll take photos soon. After knitting there with Dave (another customer who'd come in for some assistance) I headed home where Kev was getting ready to take Josie on a walk. I ate lunch while he was gone and then we headed to the grocery store. Nothing thrilling there.

We packed up Josie and went to Jeff's where the boys grilled and I knit. It was a gorgeous night and we sat out on the deck for much of it. We ate the best dinner ever!

Monday came and I had some projects around the house to do. I called Jill to see what she was up to and before I could even say much she was saying she'd love to come over and watch me paint my nails. :) She was here about 45 minutes later and we putzed around here for a while. I tried on the outfit I am thinking of wearing for my sister's party in October. I tried on the new swimsuit bottoms I got with the top she fixed to get her opinion about the look. Kev got home and the plan of going to the store and heading to Jill and Mark's for a grill out commenced. Shrimp burritos. OMG! Dad, I'll so share the recipe over at the site soon!

So yeah, going back to work today, not that exciting. Although I can't wait to show Becky (my friend I met on the bus) how much I got done on the sleeves!

update for the sake of updating

There really isn't anything thrilling happening here. I mean, I go to work, Kev goes to work. We meet at home and hang with the animals. Some nights, we go to visit with friends at their homes. Some nights, friends come to our house. It really seems boring when I write it out like that, but it's a blast!

I guess the most exciting news is that my sister is getting married in September. She and her fiance ("Has anyone seem my fiance? I've seem to have lost my fiance.") are getting married with only the witnesses and themselves. Then in October, both sides of the family are getting together to celebrate at a party they will throw. I've already gotten the outfit planned for that party (I know you were all wondering). I am hoping it will be warm enough in LA in October to be able to wear the sandals I am planning on, Julianne says that it will be.

Mom and I have had such a fun time talking about it and comparing notes as to what we know. So far, we've known just about as much as each other. I'm sure we both wish we could be there now to help Julianne pick out her dress, among other fabulous things, but we're happy that we are in the loop, so to speak.

I've even already made plans for who will take care of the critters. Josie will be going to stay with my yogi and her boyfriend (Diana and Lawrence). The cats will have our friends Shannon and Kiley come feed them. I usually like to have someone stay at the house, but that list of friends has dwindled. Everyone is either living with their husband/wife or boyfriend/girlfriend and don't want to spend the weekend away. I suppose that says what type of people we've surrounded ourselves with. A reflection of us?

So there it is in a nutshell, nothing exciting (although I've made GREAT progress on the sleeves). I will be going to a yarn store tomorrow to pick up a ball of yarn she ordered in for me. Thankfully, SAME DYE LOT!!! At least I'm excited. :)

houston, we have progress

Well, I got the question of how the sleeves are coming. How's this for an answer? Sucky, I'm sure since there is NO PICTURE! I'm trying to upload the photo of both the sleeve (well, it's more of a cuff right now) as well as the photo of what the guys did while Jenn and I knit all evening. I've realized it's much more enjoyable for me to knit with someone. Not to say I don't enjoy knitting by myself, but I tend to get much more done and more in a groove when knitting and chatting.

Okay, one more try now to upload the photos and then I've got to work on my Diana's postcard for yoga.

not working, will try later tonight...grrrrr.

Obviously it's later and it worked! Dugan brought over some video game that required them to drum. He sadly forgot the drum sticks, but as you can tell, the guys improvised quite nicely. It was such a fun evening of eating pizza, knitting and listening to the melodic and restful sound of BEAT BEAT BEAT. Sigh...

tonight, we knit

We have friends coming over for dinner (perhaps I mentioned that?) with the theme being...KNIT! Well, for me and Jenn it is at least. She and I are working on the same project (well, not the same exact, but we are both making our own set of sleeves). She's already at the back. I have a bracelet. Can I help it if I have had to visit the frog pond? I just didn't like the way the first two attempts were working out and they were too big and baggy and just not right. I could have powered on and just made myself do it but in the end, don't I want to have something that I want to wear?! Yeah, that is what I thought.

So after work I am running up to Knit/Purl to get straight 4's for my friend. She suggested I get mine already, but I think I'd rather wait until I am closer (and get them from Sally at Close Knit). I have a long way to go...such a long way.

These are the sleeves I am wanting to wear on the plane to Hawaii in about two and a half months. I mean, in theory I can get it done no problem. BUT I have a few other things I'd like to have done to take with me to Hawaii (gifty things for people I love and we'll leave it at that because some of their eyes read this here blog). Their things won't take as long, once I figure out what it is I am making for them. That's half the problem really, figuring out what to make.

Ah well. With two and a half months...I'll be scrambling and finishing something up while I'm on the plane TO Hawaii. Better not be my sleeves.

what, me plan?

I suppose you all must think I am a lazy woman, seeing as there was only one thing crossed off that list I made yesterday. Well, truth be told...life happened and I didn't feel like going back and simply adding the strike through. I got the majority of things done, although Kev and I decided instead of making our own pizza he's just going to pick some up on his way home tonight. I think our friends should be okay with this (although honestly, I'm a little sad we aren't cooking...but Kev gets off work at 7:00 so it'd be a really late dinner if we were cooking).

I booked our tickets to go to California for my sister's wedding reception/party! I am so excited. She and her fiance' are getting married on Sept. 30th, just the two of them in a quiet ceremony. Then, the families are converging and meeting the weekend of October 27th. All is set. Airplane tickets bought, hotel reserved...Kev's outfit picked out. All I have to do is find a really pretty silk top to go with my pants and shoes and I'm done too. I LOVE planning for trips. With Hawaii in November, it's too early to plan for that one. So, this trip is giving me what I need...that planning fix, if you will.

Well, must go prepare for my day (make a latte to take and load music on my mp3 player).

Latte!

when moths attack

I'm sitting in the living room giving myself a mani while chatting on line with B (whose name will remain in the vault). It's kind of hard to do both, but I'm a multi tasker at heart. I catch the glimpse of something out of my left eye. Josie sees it too. All of a sudden Chloe is up and running after...A MOTH!

I swear though, she is part raccoon because she loses interest almost as quickly. Now she's meandering around the house, unsure of what she should do next. Josie and Simon are both collapsed and sleeping. Which reminds me, must go mess with Simon... (I have taken to waking him up and annoying him when he sleeps as payback for every single morning since the day he entered our lives).

So my list of chores today:

1. clean bathroom
2. figure out what to make tomorrow for dinner with our friends.
3. pick up clutter around house
4. work more on laundry
5. go grocery shopping (might wait until I have the car for that since it's probably going to be more than I will want to carry home if I walk)
6. try not to listen to Larry and Fran next door as they yell at one another ("I can't believe you said that! I told you not to say that! I really can't believe you would say that!" Larry...she said it, deal with it)
7. finish manicure

meeting friends

I got to meet one of my online friends, Ginny, today in real life! We had such a nice time chatting and getting to know one another. She is a doll! It's wild, if you think about it. I mean, here a little less than two years ago, we'd never known the other existed. Now, I have another good friend to visit when I'm in AZ (not sure when that will happen, but with Kev and I both having sisters there, and my dear Kerri there too, it is bound to happen sooner than later). Their two dogs, Suzy and George, are a riot! Suzy is crazy and full of pep. George is laid back and cold chillin'. George...my kind of dawg (he's in pic #1)! LOL

I wished I could bottle up Suzy's energy to take with me. She is such a sweetie and just wants to loooooove you! She's the apple of her Pop's eye.

You can't tell from this picture of her, but she really is a wind up toy. :) She's just taking a break.

Driving home from Woodburn (where they live during the summer) I saw the funniest site ever. Wish I'd had the camera out and ready to go...

You know those cat trees. You know, the ones covered in carpet, multiple levels, circular portions as well as platforms? Imagine a big pick up truck towing a cage like structure on wheels...FILLED with these trees. The truck bed was also filled with them. Wha?

some mornings

I wake up dizzy. Usually I figure it's a certain time of the month and I need to boost my iron. I'm not sure why I am dizzy today though...

I didn't drink to excess last night (three beers from a keg...of not such good beer...) over the course of many hours. And I ate while consuming those three.

I didn't sleep all that well, but I'm not sure why. Kev kind of snored last night, but not as much as normal after he drinks beer.

I have had my bagel and I'm on my second latte.

I'm trying to unpack the 14 gazillion cases of shoes I got in yesterday (I only have about 6 left now) but each time I look from packing list up to the shoes, I feel all swirly. I have decided to let my coworker (who is supposed to come in today for the sole reason of helping me unload) finish up. I got through over half of them yesterday so I feel as though I've done my part. I hope he's ready for a big day though because I have a few things in the back room that really need to be shifted around and organized better. From what he says, that's what he loves to do. We'll see if he's singing a different tune after he visits my stock room.

Okay, going to go try not to hurl all over everything...this is a new thing too, feeling nauseated while dizzy (no, I can't be pregnant, trust me).

please, check your brain at the door

I am serious. I was ready to kick myself yesterday for forgetting the "integral" part of the process of getting the photos I was going to take of all the lines of shoes from the camera to the computer. I had left the cord at home. Today I had an epiphany.

So...the memory card...on the camera...it comes out and will stick straight in my laptop and it will read it, like that *snap*.

I figured that one out, today. When I'd brought the cord with me. ARG!!! The best part? Yesterday, slow. Today, much busier. What did I do to piss Newton off?!

i get the email

And it says:

"I think I will join you for yoga tonight. I think I could use some."

The first thought through my mind was "YEA!" The second, "Oh crap, he's had a rough day and is stressed."

Thankfully it was not the second, but just him feeling he would like to join Jill and myself in our practice. Diana was quite happy to have him join us, as Jill and I were too. It's a different energy when your life partner joins you in doing something you absolutely love. It's a beautiful thing.

We practiced outside and it was a perfect day. There was a slight breeze that would cool us every so often. The ground was nice and soft. Sigh...I want to be back at that practice right now. Although I know I can take it with me, and will aspire to do so.

I hope all are having a wonderful day. I hope the things you need in your life are presenting themselves to you (or you are finding them how you need).

Namaste

sally mander

Yesterday morning I woke up at 7:30 like normal (even on my days off it's normal). I fed the crew, let Josie out to potty, made myself an ICED latte and headed out front to make my Sunday morning calls. I spoke with Mom and Dad's answering machine. I spoke with Mom and Dad's cell voice mail. I spoke for a second with my friend Reagan and then Dad beeped in. She said no problem so I clicked over. I found out Mom was still at the number I'd called earlier in the week so I called Mom.

Every Sunday I call my parents. It's become one of my favorite rituals. Sometimes we chat for an hour and a half, others we just chat for twenty minutes. Mom and I spoke of her getting sprung from the hospital and how good she sounded (and consequently felt).

While I was making all these calls I received a call from our friend, James. He was rallying troops to go to a place called Buck Lake (which we renamed, Lake Salamander for the sheer number of salamanders that were swimming in the lake). Kev got up and I ran to the store to get vegetables to cut up as well as the dip in which to dip them (yes, I take veggies and dip to the lake...HUSH!) as well as a few other essentials.

This is where we spent all day yesterday:

The boys (Merek, James, Aquila, and Kev as well as Kona the dog) all swam much of the day and I sat under the shade of a tree with Josie and knit. It was a beautiful day indeed...

The photo shows you where four of the five who were swimming were. I think Aquila was at the side, sitting on a rock at the time? Or just getting ready to go out and meet Kev.

Anyway, as I said, I was sitting and knitting with Josie, who'd had enough traipsing around the water and rocks and was NOT happy when Kev and she hiked down to the car for a couple more things and he MADE her come back up the "stoopid hill" to where we were again. She parked her butt and didn't move until it was time to head home. She sat with me the whole day. Although, when I would get up to go do things, she'd be right behind me (which prompted me to have to tell Kev to call her back each time just so she wouldn't be too tired to hike back down the hill).

This is me enjoying myself: well, you'd see an image of Josie's butt under my legs as they are propped up on a cooler with beer in the background and knitting on my lap but blogger doesn't seem to want you to see it. Hmmm...

my name was almost whiny mcgee

Yeah, the A/C I raved about in yesterdays post...conked out this morning until 1:09. I seriously thought I was going to have to close up shop as the temperature inside was rising and rising (it got to about 83 INSIDE the store that kept filling up with people!!!). And then, after my boss came in and said there wasn't anything that he could do until Monday to have it fixed...and then he got in his car with A/C and drove away, it came to life. I think it got sick of my whining too.

It's still 78 in the store, but let me tell you, it feels MUCH better than 83!

In other news:

Time is standing still. There, I've said it. It's an odd phenomenon that most who work in the world of retail understand. Ten minutes feel like two days. I kid you not! You can not believe that only an hour has passed because it feels like next week already. And customers don't really help make the time pass any quicker. They simply make you want to gouge out your eyes when you realize you still have three and a half hours left. Well, not all customers make you feel that way, but most on these slow ass days do.

Okay, so maybe the title should have read: hello, my name is whiny mcgee. Ah well. Some days, you just have to have whine with your lunch.

with bob marley playin'

I'd complain about the heat, but where does that get me?

Instead I will say that I'm glad that there is a fan blowing on me as I type this. I'm glad the dog and cats are laying as still as they possibly can. I am glad that I work where it feels like I'm in a refrigerator. I'm glad I work tomorrow(!?), when it's supposed to get even warmer.

I'm also glad to be sitting at home now, two beers in my belly (I know they dehydrate, shush!), and an ad built for work. It seems as though I will be working the next few Thursdays as my dear coworker, who has taken over for me so I can do things away from the shop, has to head to the East Coast for a while. Her family needs her and she needs them. Her Grandmother passed away either last night or just today. She'd been battling death, but she finally allowed herself to go. My dear coworker is saddened, and will miss her, but knows that she's not suffering anymore.

I am feeling a bit burned at both ends at work lately though. I have spoken with the ol' bossman about it. Today he said something that, it wasn't until later, pissed me off..."what are you doing for me Thursdays anyway?" Ummm, let's see. Shall I make a list? I listed a few things off and let it go. He left and I got annoyed. What ever.

I've got things on the horizons. That's all I'll say.

Now, I think I'm going to see if yoga has brought to me the ability to fold myself in half so I can stick myself in the freezer.

when the mind fails...

I could have sworn I'd written something here earlier today. I mean, I remember opening the window and staring at it blankly. I think I even had a small inkling of something to write nudge me a bit. But then I come here and nope, nothing. A dream, perhaps?

Ah well, I am here now and that is all that matters...

Yeah, I'm here with NOTHING in my mind to write. Although I do have ideas, just not sure they'd be appropriate or appreciated.

Oh! Here's one that is good:

Kevin is an amazing person. He is good to me. He is kind. He picked up my lazy ass from yoga tonight because I didn't want to take the bus home (in my defense it really is the scariest of the buses). He paused his movie and came and got me and Jill. She offered to let us drop her where ever he wanted, and I suppose he did...at her front door. That's just the kind of guy he is. I am lucky to have met him and to have married him.

Okay, I'm tapped out now.

'night.

cat for sale

must be a person who is understanding of the fact that this particular cat is an annoying son of a...

no, he's not really for sale (or for free even), but he IS driving me bananas! it's 15 minutes until dinner and he has started the whole song and dance of "I'M DYING WOMAN, JUST FEED ME SOME DAMN FOOD."

all the while i'm being a horrible mother and working more on color corrections. this is my favorite (and most impressive) so far today.

before:

after:

the correction of color

Wow, what a thrilling day I'm having today. It's a day off, but because I played hooky on Thursday last week I decided to do the right thing and work on my works website today. I've updated one brand (although it has yet to show my changes...lovely freemerchant taking its sweet time) and decided to work on color corrections for another part of our catalog. It's almost as fun as watching paint dry. Don't get me wrong, I loves to do this part...but I'm almost thinking I might take a nap and come back to it in a bit. Each one can take a minute to maybe three, which isn't that much...except when you have at least 60 images to do, then time creeps up on you and before you know it, the day is over.

So here is a taste of my day, thus far (I started shortly after Kev went to work with only a few breaks for ironing his shirts, working on laundry, making and eating lunch, and chatting a little bit with friends).

before:


after:

I swear, we had a great weekend, but nothing exciting to write about. We're lame, so sue.

Yeah, the Sleep Dragons are circling my head. I'm out.

expecting a day

I am fully expecting today to be a huge day. I think there will be throngs of customers at some point and when my dear coworker is here. This gives me hope that the day will actually pass with some kind of speed. Last night, the last two hours, slammed. I can only hope for more like that today!

Kev will be going to an International Brew Fest today for a while before we head to our friends house to meet her parents. I forgot to tell him we'd be heading to the Alameda Brew Pub for dinner...maybe I'll text message him so he doesn't over indulge while there (on beer or food).

I've gotten all the pictures taken to update a certain part of one of the massive catalogs.

UPDATE: it's now many, many hours after I began this post (and had to hit save when someone came in and needed my help).

It was a day indeed, although not so much with the $$, but with the # of people. Coworker was awesome. She really is quite an amazing young woman. I look forward to every Saturday we get to work together. She's taken off and it's just me for the last hour and ten minutes.

Still haven't heard from Kev yet.

the littlest fruit

I got home last night from yoga to find Kev sitting out back. There was evidence he'd attempted to start a fire but was unsuccessful. This made sense because it'd rained pretty much all day and the wood was probably pretty darn wet.

We spoke of our days and what all happened and didn't. Then I said, "I wonder when we will start seeing tomatoes on our three plants" (we have a roma, besser and oregon sweet). Kev said, "We have some already."

And sure enough, we do!

I can't tell you how excited I am that little Ms. Roma is starting to produce fruit. There is nothing more tasty than your own, home grown, tomatoes. I am hoping that Mr. Besser and our Little Oregon Sweet are soon to follow in her footprints.

open letter to the jerkwads

I find it annoying that here it is, the 12th of July and you still insist on setting off fireworks at 1:00 in the morning. Obviously you have no respect for your neighbors OR their animals. Yes, you, the jerkwads who set them off on the 4th (or rather the 5th at the time of 1:30 AM) and whom I yelled at to KNOCK IT OFF. Your response, classic, talking loudly about how the dog was upset and scared all the while setting them off again. You are rude and I wish you would get kicked out. I know you rent because of the lack of grass, plants, and general lack pride you take in the house in which you live. If I only knew who you were renting from...the laundry list of complaints would be a long one indeed.

I am not a fan of holidays that encourage people to blow things up repeatedly. I think it's a silly thing, really. I know I've already ranted here about it, but suck it...remember whose blog this is. :)

I would call the cops, but honestly, don't think they'd get by in time to catch you in the act. And that is annoying to me as well.

no rest for the wicked

I don't know how wicked I am, but I will not be getting any rest this week. I am booked solid through Friday evening. Am I a bit weary and tired and sad about this? Kind of(?). I brought it on myself and the things I'm doing aren't going to be exhausting at all. I think it's just the thought of "I have plans every night this week" that is making me tired. :)

Let me share:

Last night, meeting with my Dansko rep to look at spring/summer 07 (cute things, girls).

Tonight, yoga.

Thursday, my friend Kay is coming back through town and we will be running around before coming back to the house for dinner and then zipping her to the airport for her evening flight.

Friday, drinks with my new bus pal (she's the same age, has the same interests...she's not a Bill in the least).

We have no plans for Saturday (other than me working, cuz he said we couldn't do the changes, yet). And Sunday, I can't think that far in advance. I will do some color corrections of some images of clogs for our site (I have to retake photos today without the flash) at some point this weekend (since I'm playing a bit on Thursday, I'll work on Monday).

Any big plans?

a soothing medley

Somebody in the hood either just got a casio keyboard OR they are playing the harp. But whatever the instrument, a lovely medley of "Memories," "Send in the Clowns," among others has been played this morning. Just since Kev left for work a bit ago...

"Send in the Clowns" reminds me of my Junior High music teacher, Ms. Meddill. When I was in 9th grade she started walking with a cane. Her spine was collapsing on her. She wouldn't live more than another year. She made me sing that song for a solo at performances. It will always make me think of her with great fondness and sadness. She wanted so much for me to sing opera, but I never had that love.

an indication?

I am sitting in front of the laptop as Kev is putting his dishes in the kitchen. He opens the dishwasher and asks, "Are these clean?" To which I respond, "Yes, but you can take care of them tonight when you get home. I have yoga." His reaction, "Isn't today Tuesday?"

I'm really hoping it's not going to be one of those weeks. I really hope that Ahmed will say that he loves my idea of getting the kids site and the outlet site up and running, which makes me having two days away from the shop (at least for now) logical. I really hope I can sell him on it.

I also really hope, that the week doesn't drag by because I'm already feeling off by a day.

let the sleeves commence

Well, the sleeves are underway. I wouldn't call them a shrug for the simple fact they are really going to be two sleeves that are simply connected to one another. There is not going to be any kind of body, I will not be increasing along the back to have it cover my back. It will cover one arm, open up across my shoulders to the width of the sleeve, then I will reconnect the sides back into the tube (wow, hope that makes sense to anyone...).

The color is pretty true to what you see. I love photoshop!!! I will be finishing them for a fabulous trip we have planned in November, when I will need simple sleeves for the airplane ride. No bulky sweater to take up space or be in my way. Just sleeves. Well, for now, just a big cuff.

And dinner is calling. If the recipe turns out good, I will post it over at Recipes for the Tasting. If not, we will not speak of it at all. Yeah, Kev just looked at it, says the pork isn't even on the thermometer's reading. So a bit more time it is.

I'll post more pictures as I get further along.

(for those knitters: CO 108, two rows stockinette, then a k2, p1 ribbing...Lanett superwash 100% merino wool that I got for a steal)

An interesting aside: I figured out I had to cast on the 108 stitches on the summer solstice, the same day I did the 108 sun salutations...I didn't realize it until we began our salutes.

wow, more cuteness!

Got the second of the two hats for my friend done. I can now, officially, start my sleeves. They are already on the needles, but...I put them down when I got the yarn for my friend.

So, what you think?

Oh, and Mike Ness (lead singer from Social Distortion) wants me to make him one. My big break? Who knows. I just know, I really enjoy making the baby hats. Granted, I really enjoyed making those pockets...

oh dear doG!

I was completely caught off guard this morning. Not only by her being there, but her being their when I opened. I assume she heard the "work downtown Saturday" bit, but on the "Noon to four" part. There were two times I told her to back off when I was working with a customer and she was trying to add her two cents. I wasn't too shy about telling her I had it. She responded well though and backed off. She didn't seem upset or hurt by it either. I just think she is so eager and wanting to please us that she'll listen, but only do about half of what we ask her (or have to be told in small, simple steps).

So if it all goes according to my plan, I'll be working Mon-Fri starting next week. I approach Ahmed tomorrow with the grand plan. I think that NOW is the time to have the two girls who just started work together on Saturday when it's still slower. Summers are always slower, not sure why.

Just got home from having a beer and some lovely nibblies at The Gladstone Pub (aka The Stone) and will be making that a regular haunt this summer. Okay, off to read one of the TWO magazines I got today!!! What a great way to end a rather annoying day. :)

Cheers!

random bits

What to write, what to write...

Today will go one of two ways. I will either be driven crazy by my co-worker OR I will be firing her if she's late. Let's just say she's been consistently late. After her last time when she was an hour late with no call, she's been warned (that was her second warning). Is it bad I kind of hope she's late?

I've almost got the second of two baby hats done for a friend of mine to give to hear friends. The first was the Cheshire Cat hat. Striped, ears, no smile though. I will be getting a photo of the two together when they are both done.

Josie was oblivious to the squirrel in our cherry tree this morning while out taking care of business. At first I thought she was simply concentrating on the matter at hand before going and barking up the tree. Nope, she came trotting up to the house and I let her in. Squirrelie was still back there yammering away last time I was back there...up, spoke too soon, Josie now knows.

She's a great dog. She came back the first time I asked, and I didn't even have to make much of a sound.

Time to go to the bus. Don't think I'll update later, while at work, but you never know.

my dislike for fireworks outweighs the loathe i feel for parades

It is the fourth of July. It is the "get really drunk, set off copious amounts of things that are filled with powders and things that will go boom and hope to not set fire to any houses, explode any fingers off, and set great examples for the kids who are helping us with our 'display'" of July. It is the "make my dog really upset until she gets herself worked up in a lather as she paces through the house and the only thing that calms her down is Radiohead played loud enough to make Kev say 'that is too loud'" of July.

I am not a fan of this day. I bet you couldn't tell.

miserly years?

I couldn't resist this for some reason. I kind of like it...

'What will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Shari made me do it...well, not really made me, but I saw it at her blog and well...

thunder and fireworks

Poor Josie. She's getting both of her least favorite things in one night tonight. It's actually thundering here in the Pacific NW! That's not something we normally get to experience. Fireworks are also exploding all around the neighborhood. I am hoping that the houses that are directly around us will refrain from joining in the festivities.

Last year we (Josie and I) sat in the cave and blasted Radiohead all night. Thank goodness they have long albums! We listened to every one we own and I think only had to listen to one of them twice. Tonight we have the Blues Fest playing on KBOO. I love that they broadcast live (with a lovely 38 second delay). It has been fun this weekend, listening to the music that is happening down by the river.

Normally if something is a bit bass heavy Josie calms quickly. The blues have been good this year. I'm not sure if the Blues Fest is every fourth of July or if this year is just a happy accident. I'll take it either way though.

I get to go into work tomorrow for six hours. We'll see how much we end up making. Any bets? I will be training someone tomorrow, so I suppose it's good to have it be quieter so we can discuss things without being interrupted often.

Okay, panting dog is making me hot...must go get a bottle of water.

Be safe this holiday weekend!

at night, it smells like rain

The smell of the air right before it rains is probably one of my most favorite of scents. Crisp and clean. It invigorates with each breath you take. It only lasts a short while, until those first few drops hit the ground. And then it is gone.

One thing I have noticed this summer is that the night air, when it's finally cooling off, smells like rain.

I am reminded why we moved to this part of the country. However, it's the spring and summer rains that have the scent of life. The rains that come during the fall and winter descend upon the decay of the leaves from the trees, leaving the air to smell not of life and of hope, but of the promise...

What is to come.

gin + wine = no good things

Okay, so I guess when you have two gin and tonics (not even THAT strong) and then you share a bottle of wine with two other people (yeah, three people to one bottle) no good things can come of it. I don't know why praying to those porcelain gods last night happened, but it was so. Was it the dressing on the salad I ate that was bad? Was it just a bunch of toxic feelings I need to release? Would it had happened without the alcohol?

Embarrassed, yes. Ashamed, a bit. At work, unfortunately.

I must own my actions though and I do. I am here. I'm feeling better because those boys at the Coffee Plant are my heroes this morning. Somehow I left my wallet at Jenn's house? I walked in, well more like shuffled in, and the boys asked if I was feeling okay. I admitted last night and they told me they would float me today. I will pay them back next Saturday, plus. I couldn't even knit this morning. And I didn't feel I had drunk to excess, that's where I'm at a loss.

So yes, I share the embarrassing moments of me (thankfully, no pictures were taken to commemorate the evening). Jenn dropped my wallet at the house and called to say she was there (I was literally three blocks down the road on the bus that had just picked me up). We are planning on going to our friends house tonight for a party. I will not drink. I will be the driver.

I must say though, the burps are here and I'm thankful for them...