look! something shiny.

I woke up angry this morning. I was having to get up to feed the crew once again. Every morning is the same. Simon walks across our heads, acting as though he is dying, and Kev pretends not to hear (most times that is). I got up muttering things under my breath about always having to get up to feed them (I know, how very passive aggressive of me). Crew fed, Josie let out to go potty, I made a pot of french press and called Mom.

They are in PA right now visiting my Grandmother. Her health is keeping us guessing at all times. Mom said Grandma seemed to have more energy and even though she didn't always seem to know who they were, she was not agitated.

We spoke for about 45 minutes, which is actually a little shy of the norm. They were getting ready for lunch and had to go.

I was going to call my Mamasita-in-law, but figured I should wait until Kev got up and we could both speak with her. She's quite an amazing woman as well. I must say that I have lucked out in more ways than one when I married into her family.

So, instead I cleaned my room. You know the one I'm supposed to have set up for me to do such things as knit, blog, blog about knitting, etc. The one that had become the dumping ground for just about everything (company coming over, put this Shanny's room). I decided to put on good music (Herbie Hancock) and just clean. I suppose I was mean in not really trying to make an effort to be quiet with Kev sleeping in the next room (again with the passive aggressiveness). But he's up now and we are about to get bit in the ass by the cleaning bug. I told him when he's ready, let me know. Until then I have a scarf to knit for a friend whose birthday is on the 24th and she lives in Ohio (I don't think she reads this so...and if you do Reagan, act surprised!).

That is the day thus far. I suppose I will update more later on.

my mom

So my Dad had posted a little while ago about music and songs that make our hearts sing, cry, rejoice, etc. Right this very minute there is an Enya song playing. Caribbean Blue. That song was playing once as my Mom and I were walking through a mall in Kansas City. We'd just bought a bookcase for my first apartment (it's the one that stashes all my yarn today). I was having an internal "oh my god, I'm not a little girl anymore" moments. We were walking by a store that I would have usually said was piping its music way too loudly, except it was Enya, Caribbean Blue. Her ethereal voice and the haunting tune always takes me back to that very day and just how much I love my Mother. It reminds me how special she is and how important she is to me. We had a scare a good number of years ago and her health was not what we all felt it should be. I don't know if it took that, or just my growing up (so to speak) that made me realize what an amazing woman my mother is. Happy Mothers Day, Mom. I love you.

day of the doppelganger

Yesterday was an odd day, indeed. People would come in and seem familiar to me, but not as who there really were, but I thought they were someone else. Poor Janice became Siri...then Sumi. Herb was Keith. One woman (whose name I have never remembered) reminded me of another woman (whose name I have never remembered) but whose partner's name I remember so I asked how Allison was...blank stares.

As soon as I realized my foible (yeah, when they looked at me with confusion) I would laugh with them as they would tell me I was close (with their name...how is Keith close to Herb?).

Today, it is Friday. I will be better about remembering people for who they really are (or would that be whom?).

baby hat of hate

I started a certain little baby's hat on Sunday at the stitch-n-bitch (and trust me, I was doing my fair share of the bitching). You see, I've never done a baby hat and hadn't realized that most, you have to make on four double pointed needles...a picture to show exactly how it's supposed to happen: (notice, the fiery reds and hell like feel to the photo, exactly how knitting on toothpick circumferenced needles where yarn falls off both ends feels like for me)

So, in theory, there would be stitches going all the way around, connecting all four of the needles. You use the fifth needle to do your knitting. Yeah, the thing is, if you aren't super careful (or just simply very very good) you can lose stitches off the ends of those double pointed needles. And trust me, I thought I was being super careful and I know I'm not very very good so...yeah, lost a few.

My guru and I started thinking that since I wasn't making the smallest baby hats ever I should try making one on circular needles. Usually, not possible because the shortest circulars are 16" in diameter and baby hats are usually a bit smaller than that so you really won't find it an effective way to knit. However...

It's a glimpse at the beginning of the baby hat made with love. So much love that this baby will want to keep it for the rest of her life (if her parents don't do it for her). The circulars are working and you know what that means? I just get to keep knitting in a circle. Never having to stop, switch to the next needle, etc. No eff-ity, eff, effs will come out of my mouth this time! No sir-ree bob!

Simply, I LOVES THAT BABY!!! And I haven't even met her yet!!!

the great debate

I started debating with myself a little while ago. Do I write about knitting here or start up another blog specially for that? You know, I have to say that after much thinking and taking into consideration all the feedback Kev has gotten from people like, say, Russ, I've decided to keep it all here, for now.

My suggestion will be to those, again like Russ, whom do not find themselves particularly jazzed about my entry for the day (when it is about knitting) they just check back the next day or so to see if I've updated with other non-knitting stuff.

My reasoning behind keeping it here is simple. It's part of our world. I knit. Kev plays video games. Josie, Chloe and Simon do a combination, eatsleepshitplay(but they still don't speak Spanish fluently). We're really not all that exciting.

Excuse me, but a certain little baby girls hat is calling my name and I am being told to knit.

waiting is the hardest part

Today is our monthly Stitch-N-Bitch. I have about 15 minutes until I have to walk down and catch the bus. I'm going a bit early and finding fabulous, luscious yarn to make sweet baby things (hats) from. With so many people I know either having had them already, or getting ready to have them, I figured I could whip out a few and get some things in the mail. I'm only sorry I hadn't thought to do it earlier before the two babies came into the world did...but they are here now and have heads that need hatting. :)

(Kris, just don't tell Shelly and act surprised dammit!)

I have something on the needles for my friend, Reagan, but I'm not sure I'm liking the yarn and how it's working for this particular project. I like that it is made from Soy, but it's a flat ribbon type yarn and it's just okay for the thin, springtime scarf I'm making her. I've got a few things done as samples of how it knits up so I'll get input today at the S-n-B.

Josie is sad because she's getting the short end of the stick today. We're going hiking tomorrow, even though it's supposed to be rainy. My yogi will be joining us as she needs to see some joy. And nothing brings me more joy than watching Josie on a hike. That dog is goofy!

Okay, so 20 minutes til the bus is supposed to be arriving and I have a 7 minute walk to the stop and the stop that is the timed stop is two stops up the road...so I should leave in about 8 minutes. :)

WOOT!

the best kind of flowers

I got an email today from my mother. She said that our irises had bloomed, right on schedule. I guess prior to our wedding the white irises hadn't bloomed so early. But on our wedding day six years ago they bloomed with quite a spectacular show. Ever since then, they are always blooming on our anniversary.

Dad then sent me pictures of our irises. I promptly put the picture as my desktop photo at work so I could enjoy the view. I share them with you...

cinco de mayo

Yeah for me Cinco de Mayo is a lovely day. It is the day before my anniversary. This year Kev and I mark our 6th year together as a married couple (in real time we've actually been together for almost 10! years). I look back each year and think of all we have done together, what we've been through, the craziness I make him deal with and the video games I get to listen to. Every year brings about the same thought. And that thought is this:

I am truly lucky. I am married to an amazing person. He treats me with respect, yet knows when to give me shit. He laughs at me, but in the good way where I'm laughing with him. He knows when I need him to be tender (shut up fellas) but he also knows when I need him to be my knight in shining armor. Six years. Where did the time go? We often wonder that aloud to each other.

The 6th anniversary gift is iron. I have gotten him a pair of Teva hiking sandals (no, not made of iron, but will wear like iron!). I don't really expect anything in return and who knows, he may just surprise me (especially since I will wrap his sandals and leave them in plain sight so he can see it when he gets home...how's that for subtle?).

Oh and Mom and Dad...LOVE the iron iron. :) I had a good laugh. Sorry, I opened it already! It's one of Grandma's old ones, isn't it? I love it!

So, happy Cinco de Mayo. If you celebrate, be safe. And tomorrow, raise a glass to six years of wedded bliss. :)

i stand corrected then i'll shut up

I was mistaken about one of the individuals and her stance on mammograms. Only one, former, member was refusing to go in. I have apologized to the other individual.

I now see that I need to fully read many of the posts being sent in, not just skimming.

save the drama for your mamma

I sometimes have the ability to say things that really upset people without knowing what I'm saying upsets them. Personally, I believe that it is their choice to be upset. I try not to say mean and hurtful things on purpose. It's really not in my character. So when someone tells me that the words I write here have upset them, I also choose to be upset. I never call people names. I never say that X is stoopid. I might say I disagree or am "horrified" (to use a word in the previous post) by their actions or lack of actions, but that is my right as a human being.

However, I will not remove things I have posted if asked (nobody has asked, just fyi) if I feel 100% about what I've written. This is MY place to get things off my mind, and honestly, I hold back quite a bit because I don't want to upset anyone. Part of me feels that maybe I shouldn't hold back all the way. I mean, who reads this thing anyway?

I know at least one person does, and for some reason she feels the need send the link to people whom she knows will be affected, knowing it is going to make the person choose to be upset. And by doing this SHE is really the hurtful person, but she makes it look as though the person doing the writing, in this case me, is the hurtful and wrong person. She is "simply passing along information" the other person "may find interesting." Does that make any sense?

It makes me sad for person B (I'm A and the hurt one is C). She obviously is lacking something in her life that makes her feel the need to strike out against others and bring a feeling of unease to them.

I will admit, I was full of rage when I learned that she'd done it again. Then, I banned her butt (yes, animal list drama) and got over it. You see, I have friends in real life (as well as cyber) who know that the internet isn't the be all end all. I have friends whom I've met online and even though I've not yet met them in person, would call them a friend. I also have a list of people I've met online whom I don't trust (most of you reading, not on that list). I like the adage, keep your friends close and your enemies closer (although in retrospect I've just done the opposite at the list...but it was house keeping and it really needed to be done). I don't like having enemies though.

my first mammogram

An online pal of mine is going through some scary things right now with her health. There are lumps involved (not in her breasts), fatigue, just a feeling of being unwell. Her doctors told her they wanted to get her in for a mammogram. She has shared this with the online group (yeah, it's my online animal list so stuff it!) and a few of the women have made comments that I find horrifying. Two in particular outright REFUSE to have mammograms done. WHA?!?!?! We have a 14 year old girl on the list and I really think she's an impressionable young lady. Several of us have come down on the side of getting them done annually, once the doctors tell you it's time (or earlier if there are lumps and bumps found).

It brings to mind a story I've not shared here. Men, if you don't want to think of my "girls" then look away. If you do and it's in that sick twisted way, again I say, look away (and if you read DON'T comment any icky stuff cuz I will totally delete!!!).

My first Mamogram:

I was chatting one night about a year ago, on the phone with my dear friend Reagan. While blabbing away I noticed that there was a feeling in my right breast that really shouldn't be there. Now, I don't feel myself up while chatting on the phone with friends, but I happened to rest my hand on my chest and felt something odd. So I investigated. The conversation went like this...

Me: Holy shit!

R: What?!

Me: I feel a lump.

R: Where?

Me: Right breast and it's HUGE!

R: You'll call Monday, they'll get you in, it will be fine.

Me: Yeah, but I'm saying it is ginormous!!!!!

We went back and forth like this for a little while before we decided that it was a conversation that was getting me nowhere, but worked up. We decided that Kev should have a feel when he got home to confirm what I felt.

Me: I need you to do something but first know, it's not going anywhere!

Him: Ummm.

Me: Feel my right breast...right....there.

Him: Hmmmm.

Me: You feel it, don't you?

Him: yes.

Me: Okay, I will not panic, it's a lump. I will call Monday to make an appointment. Why does it have to be Friday night?!?!?!?!

Him (looking a bit green): Yes, Monday we'll go in.

I called that Monday and got in immediately. I love my doctor and his staff. I always leave feeling as though I've seen an old friend. Dr. Smucker (yes, that really is his name!) indicated he thought it was just a cyst because it was not hard like a rock and you could move it around. But, just to make sure, he sent me for my first mammogram. I was terrified. I felt that it was going to be the most painful thing ever in my life. I sat alone in the room with my paper top on (opening toward the front for easy access) and waited for the tech to come in and feel me up. She was a sweet woman. Caring and compassionate. She even went and got Kevin when it was all done and we were going to get a sonogram of the lump. Flatten does not begin to describe how the girls were treated by that machine. There was no booze or sweet nothinin's whispered. The tech simply hoisted them one by one on the plate and squished the hell out of each one two ways. The lumpy one had to get squished three times in one direction because it just wasn't catching it right. Joy. By the third squish, I actually felt like it wasn't going to ever come out of the vice grip, but I never felt actual pain.

We went to get the sonogram next. Again, everyone was nice and helpful and even though they looked at me with worry in their eyes, they were so kind about it all. The doc indicated he thought it was just a cyst, but we'd look around and see what we could see. It was large, in my mine, 2 cm x 3 cm. I think it felt bigger. He said that most of the times the cysts will go away on their own, but if I wanted we could have a needle biopsy. I decided to leave it be since everything was pointing to cyst. I kept an eye (and hand) on it and when I started to freak because it was starting to hurt, Kev reminded me to stop poking at it. Yeah, that helped it stop hurting.

It's now been a bit more than a year and the doc was right, it did dissolve. However, I keep feeling the girls and making sure there isn't anything to cause concern. If I ever feel a hard lump that will not move...Dr. Smucker will be called.

swimming

I am sitting at the coffee shop. I've just finished the ad and have sent it into the magazine. I've only been gone about an hour, and honestly, don't want to go back anytime soon. :)

The woman I was training this morning, fabulous. In a word, natural. I only wish she was the woman who was going to be downtown Sunday and Monday because I have a feeling she's going to be one well liked employee. It's good that she'll be out at our "mall" shop though. It needs charismatic people. She is that for sure.

The woman who is there now, she's going to take a little more, but should be good. She's thoughtful and I think really wants to do a good job. There is something to be said about that as well.

Thanks for the votes for swim. I was just feeling a wee bit overwhelmed this morning at the thought of training two people today. Yoga tonight, although I don't know what is going to happen at class because my yogi isn't in a good space right now in her life. We will set our intention for her tonight and send her all the positive energy we can muster.

Namaste.

sink or swim?

too much training.

brain turning to mush.

leaving work for an hour (later this afternoon).

must get ad done.

will she sink or swim?

i'm hoping swim...

today is the day

9 years ago our dear little Chloe was born (at least we are making it the day). She was brought into our family when she was four months old to befriend our older cat, Bob. He was not in good health and she became his nursemaid. She'd clean him and make sure he was taken care of when we were away. She is a special little girl in my world because of that very reason. She loved Bob as much as I did. I love her so very dearly.

So today, think of my girl on her 9th birthday and hope for at least 9 more!

This image was not taken today, but not much has changed.

i'm sure i'll be hearing

Kev hasn't spoken with his buddies lately, but if I don't post soon, I'm sure I'll be hearing, "Tell Shannon she needs to update more often." Yeah, well, sometimes life happens and you just don't think about the blog.

Last night I met my dear friend Jenn (she's the knitting friend) for drinks after work. We chatted about all kinds of things. Then, she took me to the pottery studio where she's taking classes. She's a very experienced potter, but will take classes so she can make things and fire them since she doesn't have a kiln set up right now at her house. She's looking to make her basement into her studio in the future, but for now, she'll just take workshops and use their kilns.

After we went there and pulled some of her vases that had been bisqued and put them into her locker so she could go glaze them today, we went back to her house and watched silly tv and chatted even more. She gave me an amazing mug she'd made for me, well, it was the one she was thinking of me while she glazed it, but she gave me the choice of it or a few others. I chose it. (I was going to put up a shot of it, but the camera is full of a video of Chloe being nuts this morning). Jenn then took me home where I found Kev online playing some computer game that he'd been playing all night when I called to check in (not in the sense of "I have to check in because it's the rules" but more in the "I'm going to call him and bug him because I know he's playing that damn game and when he hears my voice he dies" sense).

Today was a lovely day starting with a haircut with Jill and then we went to the new DSW (that's Designer Shoe Warehouse) where she got a great pair of avocado and orange wedge T-strap sandals and some Teva flip flops and I got an amazing pair of navy blue wedges. We left there and picked Kev up from work. He and I then zipped home so we could change and meet Shannon and Kiley out for sushi. Yum!

Now we're sitting around (we already took Josie to the park and ran like crazy people while she would zip between the two of us) and that is the plan for the night!

Happy weekend, all!

quite possible

I am quite possibly married to the most amazing person in the world. When I told Kev of the phone call I received two days ago he said, "I forbid you to talk to him again." and then proceeded to giggle in that great way he does. Then he said, "No, I'm glad that you have found out your friend's family is fine." He knows that Jeremy was my first boyfriend, so don't get all "you need to tell him he was more...etc"

I decided tonight (rather the beer I had after a shit ass day at work decided) to call Jeremy so we could chat without a #15 bus driving by every ten minutes. We spoke for two and a half hours.

I found out his sister is doing very well (last I'd known she'd had a brain tumor) and living back in New Orleans with her boyfriend. She's now about 25 years old. That just seems odd to me.

I found out that his cousin is also living back in N.O. but has gotten himself an addiction that makes me sad (I won't go into it here as it's not any of your business).

I found out that his aunt had to relocate because she lost everything she owned, but she was doing well all things considered.

He told me that they talked about me and my contacting him to find out about them over Easter. I think that possibly is what prompted him to call me. I'm glad he did. It was easy, like talking to a really great friend. I had him laughing a good amount (which of course made me laugh) and he thanked me. We spoke of our lives and how happy we are having found the people in this world we were meant to be with.

He said he think Kev sounds like a really great person, to which I told him he was correct. I actually think that the two would really get along well. Not that anyone is taking any Florida/Oregon vacations, but still.

We vowed to keep in touch, we'll see if it happens.

I just am happy that along the journey of life that lead me to where I am today, I got to know him.

Kev and I chatted about the conversation for a little while after he got home. He listened, laughed, and made my heart sing, like he always does.

voice from the past, kind of

So after Hurricane Katrina I did a little sleuthing (I swear, I need to be a detective for real) and found the address of my first boyfriend, Jeremy. His cousin lived in New Orleans (last I knew) and I wanted to find out if he was okay. I wrote a letter and included my email address, phone number, and street address. About a month or so later I got an email from him saying I had found him. We emailed back and forth (yes, Kevin was aware of the whole operation from the minute I even thought about trying to find him and find out if his family was okay) and then suddenly he was gone again. *poof* out of my life once more. I had hoped we would be able to catch up and I'd be able to find out about his life. I'd learned that he is married, living in Florida, and they have a basset hound named Beauregard (sp). I learned his family was fine and that he was going to have talk with them to see if they would mind him passing along their information. That was the last I had heard.

Yesterday I was getting ready to head up to the yarn shop to get more yarn for the pockets and I saw I'd missed a call. Area code 850. Hmmm, figured it probably wasn't a wrong number and after doing a reverse phone search I saw it was a Florida phone number. I looked at my coworker and said, "the only person I know of in Florida is Jeremy..." As I was leaving, the phone buzzed again, same number.

I answer, knowing who it is before I even get "hello" off of my tongue. It was him. His voice sounded so deep and grown up. I mean he is 31, but still, he'll always be the 15 year old I dated back a million years ago. We chatted briefly, but since I had to go back to work quickly I couldn't really chat long. We discussed talking again over tea.

When Kev got home he seemed happy to know that I had heard from him and found out about Brad, Nancy and his sister Allison. All had been affected by the hurricane. I can't wait to chat again when I can hear him, instead of when I'm standing by a bus stop outside the yarn store.

I still can't get over him sounding like a man.

and the training continues and other randomness

So I am still training our newest employee. She's doing really well and slowly picking up the fact that since we don't work commission sales (yipee!) she doesn't have to pounce on people as they enter the store. A simple "Hello!" from across the store works. We packed her brain with much information yesterday and will do so again today. I'm pretty excited about her enthusiasm about the store.

In other news...crap, don't really have any other news to share. Kev had his buddies Chuck and Jason over last night to watch playoff basketball. I knit (oh the horror!) and hung out with them for a while before retiring to the bedroom to read Real Simple. I miss that magazine, but I don't know if I miss it enough to resubscribe to it again. I was given a little thrill when I saw one of their helpful hints was already something I do. You totally want to know what that hint is now, don't you?

The folks at RS will offer up "Double-Duty Household Items" as a regular feature. They take things that are really used for other purposes around your house and give you suggestions of how you can repurpose them. The one which I do is use the magnetic clip as a recipe holder. I stick it to my stove hood so that the recipe card is always at eye level and not getting all schmutzed up (although secretly I love it when recipes show their age and use). One tip I thought I would probably use was color coding my keys with fingernail polish. My work key and house key both fit into each others locks (risque!). They look identical, both gold in color, etc. So this would really help me stop trying to use my house key at work and vice versa.

I'm also intrigued by the detergent packets. "Cot'n Wash Dropps are dissolvable, organic and premeasured for both standard and high-efficiency machines." I like the thought of less waste (those plastic bottles that the detergent comes in are really hard to clean out for recycling) as well as less heft to have to lug home from the grocery store. You order these bad boys online and boom, they show up. The only draw back, the cost per load. The are $10.50 for only 20 loads worth...

In this particular issue several women over 100 years old were interviewed. They offered their advice to a good life. One woman said in her list "dogs deserve to be spoiled." I think I'm in love...

and charles arrives at work

I was standing there yesterday chatting with a customer about the beautiful day and how I was sad because I wasn't getting to take full advantage of it (you know, being my day off and I was at work and all) and in walked Charles. I looked at him with expecting eyes and he asked, "You really want me to stay?" To which I replied, "Yes, thank you."

I then went and got my eyes examined. Woo, that was fun. I've never had them dilated before, but figured it would be a good idea to have my eye health checked fully (especially since Macular Degeneration runs in my family). She noticed I have a hole in one of my eyes (not sure the part she said it was in...my mind was thinking "hole, a hole? that can't be good!"). She also said something about there being something next to my macula, but not close enough to worry her that it is MD or will turn into MD in the near future. I, however, freaked out a bit (internally) and am now convinced in my adult life I, too, will lose my eye sight (as my Grandma Sam has). I'm trying not to think of it, but still...freaky!

Anyway, so on the bus I go, all dilated and blind. There were some rather annoying riders on this particular bus. When did it become a beauty parlor? One girl was getting a weave put in her hair, and the one doing the weave kept yelling at her son, "JEREMY! STOP!" I'm not sure what he was doing, but according to her it was "gross". I didn't want to stick around and find out.

I get home and Kev is lounging on the couch. He'd just gotten back from taking Josie to the Powell Butte for a nice little walk. She looks happy, although not 100% worn out. We discuss the need for getting food in the house, propane for the grill, and making a CostCo run for the essentials. It was actually the quietest we've ever seen CostCo. Boggled our minds.

And now I sit, waiting to go catch my bus in for my regular work week. I'm going to forget that the little bit of yesterday there even happened so that my mind doesn't have me thinking it is the next day already, like last week.

hey thanks!

Thanks to those who responded either via the comments or by sending me an email. I know now that it's not rude to knit in front of friends whom you feel are like family, except for him. I think that it boils down to this. He is the consumate host. By me knitting or doing other things he feels as though he's not entertaining enough and I'm bored of him. However, when the game gets turned on or some movie I am not interested in, I see no harm what so ever in me picking up my knitting. I mean, it's kind of rude to assume I would want to watch the game and I would never suggest that the boys turn it off...

I'm at work. It is Monday. I am sad. I will hopefully get to leave early today, but I'm not counting on it. I think the trial that my coworker is a juror for is one where the guy killed his wife with her sewing scissors. I can totally understand his desire for beer afterwards, but still hope that he comes in to let me leave early. That is how self centered I am.

I just realized that the skirt I wore to work today has a lovely grease stain on it from dinner last night. What, I didn't get dressed dressed until we were heading to dinner at the Delta. So I was clean...until I slopped some of the dressing from my fried chicken po-boy all over my lap. Oops. I completely forgot that I had until I just looked down and saw the evidence again. Urgh.

Okay, must go actually do work now. I have much to ship off to their new homes!

hypothetically speaking

Say you are getting together for a nice, impromptu, evening with friends. They are making lovely drinks and you are all sitting around chatting away. Is it inappropriate for one of the people to, say, pull out her knitting and knit away while chatting? Her full attention is being given to the conversation because the knitting she is doing is not a labor intensive pattern that requires counting and such. Just knit a row, purl a row...easy basics. Is it offensive? Just wondering...

a moment of silence please.

Maddie had to be put to sleep two days ago. Her body just wasn't strong enough for the fight it was going to have to make to stay alive. She had a great life on this earth living with Ahmed. He treated her like his own baby. She will be missed by everyone who had the chance to meet her. As I've said before, I am not a small dog fan, but this one was different. She came in here and wrapped us all around her little paws. She was spunky and fun and full of energy. Sadly her body just gave out. At this moment, he says he will never let another dog in his life. I hope that he rethinks that position at some point because he has a lot of love to give and any animal would be lucky to be in his family.

Rest in peace little Maddie and Godspeed on your trip across the Rainbow Bridge...

excuse me while I go cry for the loss of my littlest friend.

where i want to curse and swear a lot.

So this morning my coworker (the one who is at jury duty) stopped by. I could tell he was going into the trial, due to his button up look. He mentioned that he thought the trial would be done today so that I didn't have to come in on Monday. (jinx) He stopped by this evening and told me that it wasn't done so I need to come in. He proceeded to say that he thought it would be done on Monday. (jinx) When I said, "So then you are coming in when done on Monday?" he joked about going and getting a beer instead. I expressed my need to NOT work all day on Monday because I've not had a day off with Kev in almost three weeks. He then said something about after this trial is done, he can't wait to tell me about it because it's a really strange case (hence the desire to drink beer). I told him that even though I'm sure he was going to feel the desire to drink that he not and wait until he gets home...after coming in and finishing the day.

I'm tired. I'm sick and tired of working. I know, I have it easy. My job is great and I enjoy what I do. BUT I've had a taste of what it's like to have Thursdays away from the shop (remember last month?) and I have grown accustomed to four days on the floor. So this two six day work weeks in a row, sucks! I want Thursdays back...NOWWWWW!

Okay, going to go grab the laptop and work on a few things for family and friends.

Thanks for listening internet.

the week that was never ending

This week has taken a full year to pass. I suppose working on Monday (one of my normal days off) has screwed with me. I have been a day ahead of myself all week. All day yesterday I was convinced that it was Friday. Imagine my dismay when I realized each time I had that thought that no, it was only Thursday.

I am training today again so the time will go quickly today. This is a beautiful thing. I just hope that tomorrow can pass quickly as well so I can get to Sunday, my ONLY DAY OFF AGAIN this week. Stoopid jury duty...

All I am saying is that if this goes on one more Monday, I will not be the one working. I have had to reschedule my tattoo appointment three times now, once due to Naomi being out of town, once due to me being sicker than I've been in a while and this last time because of my coworker and his getting called to be a juror.

Not to exciting of a post, but better than nothing, eh?

it's done!!!

So, I am smitten with Crazy Aunt Purl. She had a pattern for the perfect evening pouch/bag. I've, for quite some time, dreamt of a great little wrist bag that is just big enough for my phone, keys, lip stuff...then I stumbled upon her site. OMG!!!

I'm done, it's done, I'm happy!

I used chunky Icelandic yarn from Blue Moon. #13 needles. Followed her pattern to the letter (if you want to see the pattern as she wrote it, it's in her archives from March). It's all felted and gorgeous. I can't even tell you that the next girls day out (which will be Sunday the 30th) I am thinking I'll be taking this instead of some huge bag!

LOVE IT!!!

blah blah and more blah

The sun is shining. People are smiling. Life is good.

I got home last night and Kev and I ran around Target looking at random things we don't really need. Got batteries for things that have been waiting patiently to come back to life. Two of the items didn't make it. Simon's laser pointer (dammit) and a calculator. The clock is now telling us what time it is. I'm bummed about the other two things not working though. Not sure why they aren't. Got the right batteries...ah well.

We laughed at the clothing that they are now selling for dogs. Joked about getting a jaunty denim jacket for Simon. Something tells me that even though this is the cat that will do just about anything for us, he'd draw the line at a jaunty denim jacket. But man, in my mind...he's damn cute in it!

We had a giggle at the hanger that said the pants were 34/34 (Kev's size). He held them up and said, "I could make the work place capri in style?" They were really 34/30. I vetoed that idea promptly.

Walking towards the undies Kev almost had a melt down and was going to meet me upstairs. I didn't get the ones he suggested, although might have to go back without him sometime.

We then hit the grocery store on our way home to get him some Mac-n-Cheese for dinner. I wasn't hungry still from lunch (had the best burger ever!!) so I didn't eat anything last night. Of course as I was getting ready for bed I was a bit hungry. Didn't eat though.

Yeah, so that is the excitement of our life...woot.

just when i thought it was safe...

I got an email from a friend in Ohio. I am smitten with one of her five dogs (well, she says she has four and is only fostering the fifth, yeah...right). She sends me a series of photos. Each is cuter than the one before. I don't think I've loved Ruffie Roo as much as I do today, having seen this:


The cat is Lucy. Apparentally this cat will sit on any of the dogs that will let her and bathe them to her heart is content. Ruffian is her favorite though...

random bits and bobs

Well, got word from my boss's wife that Maddie seems to be doing a bit better. She'll be going to the vets during the day and then home at night for the week so that the doctors can figure out exactly what is going on. I have no clue, other than it appeared she was going through kidney failure. For a dog of 8 months old it is odd. We'll see what they end up figuring out. Thanks for the vibes and thoughts!

I am sitting here waiting to go catch the bus. On a Monday. Chas has jury duty and I'm the only person who could cover. I asked him if he was turned down if he was planning on coming to work and got the following response, "Oh, um, well, I could come say hi to you." Yeah, I was thinking that as you were saying hi to me you could say hi to customers as they came in the shop as I left...

I know he just covered a half day for me while I was sick, but...since he didn't offer to switch days, I would just as soon have him come in if he's not selected to finish the rest of his normal day. Yeah, I'm a bitch and am ungrateful. Sue me.

Poor Josie hasn't been out on a real hike in quite some time. What am I saying? Poor US!!! All three of us. I don't think we'd go huge hike today, even if I wasn't working, but we'd get her out for sure! She's just about to bust out of her skin she's got so much energy. I am hoping that if I don't get to go home today at an early time that Kev will take her somewhere after he is done with whatever he is doing today at 11:00.

I finished yet another knitting project. No pics yet. It's a small, short, thin pink springtime scarf. For those days that you are chilled, but don't want to put on a sweater or your winter scarf. It's kind of like a necklace. I've had it on since I finished it last night. Now I've got some super secret project I'm working on. :) I can't wait to be done with it (I hope it works when all is said and done).

Okay, no more.

again, good thoughts needed for a puppy

You all might remember me mentioning Maddie, my boss's Pomeranian. Well, she's been ill and I just got word that the vets are saying she's going through kidney failure. She was bought at a pet store (NOT where you should buy your animals...if not adopting go to a REPUTIBLE breeder whom you have researched and are comfortable with). My friend Reagan, says genetics are to play in most cases, especially in puppies. Since Maddie was most likely from a BYB (backyard breeder) this is probably what is causing it.

Please hold her in your thoughts and send her the healing mojo. I only hope they caught it in time, can alter her diet and get her on meds fast enough!

This is going to kill Ahmed if it kills her...

barry white called, and wants his voice back

I am laughing because I have surprised many a person by actually being me on the phone. Meaning, they call, ask for me and don't believe it when I say that is who is speaking. My voice, deep and sultry right now. Nothing like my normal voice (which is so high pitched and annoying...HA!).

I can't tell you how much better I feel. Okay, I can, but won't bore you with the details. I got invited over for egg dying tonight at my friend Shannon's house. I don't think I'll go, simply because even though I feel a million times better, I don't want to push myself. However, if Kev is home sick still (yup, you guessed it...he got it) I might go for a little while. Cabin fever is huge for me and even though I'm away from the "cabin" now, it still takes over when I get home. Something about not being able to leave for three days makes me crazy.

It's cold and raining here today. Which is being kind of helpful since I have an ad to build for next week and since I'm not getting Thursday off to work on it...and I don't want to work from home (I am salaried so not getting paid for time I work at home ain't cool).

Speaking of which, I better start figuring out what I am going to do for this ad. I think I might have something brewing in my brain...just have to tap into it while it's fresh!

I'm out!

wishing for my hat

Well, I've made it to work. I've gotten a warm pumpkin muffin (the first thing I've craved and eaten and had taste really good) and a chai (not so good actually). I think I might go next door and get a ruby red grapefruit juice. That sounds refreshing.

I wish I would have brought my orange hat. For some reason, it's the only way I can get warm, if I put a hat on my head. I know that is where you lose the majority of your heat so it makes sense, BUT what is weird is my hands are ice blocks until I put on the hat and then they are warm and toasty. That is what I wonder about.

Okay, I'm yawning and feeling sluggish. Must go get some juice.

relax, no fears...no ice cream

Hey all. Don't worry about the craving and the actual eating of ice cream because I only got to the craving part. I know that ice cream and nasty snot stuff don't go hand in hand. I just was craving something smooth that I didn't have to chew that was cool. I ended up eating part of a peanut butter and jelly. Not quite as satisfying, but it gave me protein. I must say, I'm still not really hungry and am having Gatoraide for breakfast.

I am feeling much better and thank you all for the well wishes. Work will possibly still not be all that fun today, but...I will go in for the full day. I only have to work three days this week and next week I have to work on Monday. Ugh. Stoopid jury duty (my Monday guy). However, we hired someone yesterday to work Sunday/Monday so this will eventually free up my Thursdays again. The guy who was working those two days will just have to work one downtown. This makes me ecstatic!

Well, I'm going to go put on a bit of makeup so that my customers today don't think I'm the walking dead like they did yesterday. YAWN! I could still be in bed and that would make me happy...ah well.

craving of the ice cream

I am sooooo craving vanilla ice cream with hot fudge and caramel. I have no clue as to why, but man, it sounds so yummy to me! I don't think Kev will go for it though, at least not for dinner. Rats.

He came home early because he was not feeling all that great, but he doesn't feel as I did by this time on the first day I was feeling icky. I'm feeling a bit better now but sadly I have nothing new in my brain to put into words here. Other than, I sooooo want ice cream!!!

not really ready

But in I go. My coughing fits have slowed down and become a little less frequent, although tell that to my stomach muscles which ache with each one. My nose is dripping a little more, which I suppose is better than being all stuffed up and inside. My body still aches, I'm guessing it's all the coughing I've been doing that has left me feeling like crap.

I am hoping that when I go in, Ahmed will take one look at me and tell me he'll be back later to close for me. He's already opening for me, although I am ready to go in at my normal time and would rather just get in there and start getting this day over with.

Better go grab tp for the ride in (yeah, that fancy pants tissues, only the best for us!).

Ugh, someone kill me. Or call my boss and tell him I'm dying.

sick of being sick

Saturday night we headed out to see our friends new house, about 45 minutes away. We had a lovely evening and all three of the dogs behaved quite well (yep, Josie got to go with). On our drive home I noticed that my sinuses were a bit off and I was feeling a little tickle in my throat.

I've not been out of bed for more than 20 minutes since that night. I'm achy and hot and cold and feeling like a mac truck has rolled over me many, many times.

I've called off of work for tomorrow already, but am planning on being back there on Wednesday. You know, it sucks being sick. You can't go to knit parties, get work done on your tattoo, sit up for more than 20 minutes at a time...ugh.

i swear, it's just a smidge of knit talk

So, here she is. My "damn scarf". I can officially give Kev his back... (CO 31, k2, p2 ribbing, end on a k2, p1, aka known as the "mistake" pattern)

This is the yarn I purchased from Kristin. Perhaps I've mentioned her here before? Funny since even though I've never met her (or many other of you, and you all know who you are) I feel a friendship has been kindled. I'd like to knit with her circle sometime in my life, and since my parents live in that general area, something tells me that might just happen.

Meanwhile, tonight I was planning on weeding the front lawn tonight after getting home. Yeah, I know we probably should have done it prior to all the seed we laid down. (Have I told you about the thermostat?) Anyway, by the time I got home tonight it had chilled down considerably since today's high of 70. And now that I've gotten in, fed everyone, loaded the picture up Iand played with it and others in photoshop) and started posting here, I've given up on the idea of actually changing and going outside. Yeah, something tells me you are all behind me 100%. (except for those of you who don't and then you can all be quiet)

I must figure out dinner and am hoping to get a chance to chat with my friend, Reagan, in Ohio. She called me this morning just as I was going into Coffee Plant to get a latte. We made tentative plans to chat tonight, but sadly she's not answering either of her phones. Since it's already 10:20 there and she works crazy ass hours, she might actually be in bed. (yeah, I'm not really betting on that though)

Okay, Simon is trying to get my attention about something.

the reflective qualities of glass

I love working downtown. There are funny people to watch at just about any given time. Take, for instance, Mr. Gel (hair so done it seems as though there is no getting it to move, even with the strongest water pressure). He just walked in front of my store. Looked to his left, into the glass windows of the shop. Proceeded to suck in his gut and give himself the thumbs up look. Yeah, does Mr. Gel not think that windows are WINDOWS? I mean, really, does he not see me seeing him looking at himself with those come hither eyes? I can guarantee he did not look at me like that, because I'm sitting behind the counter and he had already walked past me.

Don't say, "he probably didn't see you sitting there..." They sometimes do see me looking at them and will either smile big or look embarassed.

People do this type of preening in my window all the time. Women and men will walk by, look at themselves in the reflection in the window and fluff hair, pick crap out of their teeth, and now, suck in their guts. I'm willing to bet that as soon as Mr. Gel walked on by, the gut relaxed again and he'll have to do it all over when he sees himself in the next big picture window he passes.

heh.

root toot toot

I look at the new programmable thermostat and say to myself, "there is no way I am going to do that tonight."

Yeah, that didn't work. I am so proud of myself. You see, we had gone to Home Deephole to buy some grass seed and what not. We had been speaking of wanting a digital thermostat that we could program to turn itself lower at night and when we are gone to work. Done and done. It runs on batteries, so I suppose we'll have to keep an eye on it, and get rechargable batteries.

I think Kev might have felt a bit overwhelmed at the idea of switching our old, mercury bubble, thermostat (anyone know where to take that to dispose of?). And taking stuff apart and putting it back together has always been my way of life (right Dad?)..hence we get me doing it tonight. It's just wonderful already. And I can totally tell a difference. It's on, but not as long each time. Sigh.

I haven't told him yet, since he's still at work and it's right around the end of the busy dinner rush. I think I'm going to wait and see if he notices. He's missed things before so we'll see.

Of course, tomorrow is supposed to be up to 70. :) Ah well, such is life.

diggity dog listener

So I've noticed lately that Josie (the diggity dawg) is avoiding her fish oil pills we give her with breakfast and dinner.

I think I'm going to listen to her and stop giving them to her for a while. I mean, what if (and this is out on a limb here) what if she has developed an allergy to them? These are a different brand than the ones we used to get (and can't find at Cost Co anymore).

The reason I say "listen to her" is because I've not in the past and have ended up cleaning up a mess in the end. You see, she didn't want to eat dinner. I tempted her into it, hand feeding her whole dinner to her. Well, you get the picture.

Just thinking on it.

please, don't break the glass

I'm sitting here calmly at work. All of a sudden I hear this guy freaking out about someone being "effing dead" (although he used the real words). A larger girl grabbed ahold of him and wouldn't let him go, until a thin male friend came to help her. Now they are leaning against the window (which I am praying does not break).

Move along kids...just called Clean and Safe. Joy. I didn't ask them to send anyone, as they have started to calm down and are trying to move on. Again, joy...

I love working downtown, however it seems that there are more and more street kids making downtown not quite as welcoming as it once was. This makes me sad because I really love that downtown Portland has visitors feeling like they are not in a huge, overwhelming city (this goes for my own feelings as well). Now, I just keep an eye on those kids, as they really haven't moved along as far or as fast as I'd like them to.

whole lotta nothin'

I don't think enough of you were hoping for drizzle for us. Nothing yesterday. Today, it might happen...we'll see.

I got off the bus last night to find Kev walking to the car. I call out to him and ask where he's headed. He laughs and says the store to get things to make dinner...oh and that Chuck is coming over. YEA! I haven't seen Chuck in ages (his hair is even now a different style, that's how long it's been).

Tonight I have yoga with Diana and Jill. This makes me happy. I attended a class on Sunday with a dear friend. While I felt great afterwards, it was not a mind freeing class, as yoga often is for me. I kept thinking about things. I think having mirrors along two walls (even though it was really great to see myself in headstand) as well as the doors/windows that were street level so everyone passing could peek in was a bit too much for me. I'm used to a quiet room with candles, music and two of my favorite women. I just didn't "feel" the instructor. Although my body did get worked out.

I am almost done with my Damn scarf, Electric Youth Blue. IT IS SO DAMN PRETTY! I can hardly wait to post pics. (shove it, Russ) I've already got my next project all lined up as well. I tend to do that, start a project and then find the yarn for the next project. Of course it makes it harder to not set project A down and pick up project B, but I don't allow myself to do that. I must finish what I start before I can start anything else. Simple as that. The customer that brought me some black yarn was in this past week. She is going to bring me more, but we'll see when and what. I loved the first batch she gave me. I used one to make a thin scarf/lariat that I ended up giving to Diana. I gave the other to a fellow knitter who needed black yarn but couldn't find any at any of the shops.

Okay, latte is getting cold and I have to gather my lunch items before heading to the bus. I am hoping for a busy day so that time passes quickly. I do have a futures order to write up, joy, but that won't take all that long.

I'm out.

keep yer fingers crossed

Spring is definitely on its way! The sun is peaking out right now, but I'm sure it will make way for drizzle. Drizzle is what we need. Yesterday I was content. I was sitting on the sofa in the living room, soaking up a few of the rays that were still out (after the drizzle had let up). I was knitting up a storm. This scarf, going to be gorgeous!!! It's really doing beautiful things (I'll get pictures up as soon as it is done, which should be in the next day or so...hopefully).

Kev had been playing Tetris on his DS and then he decided it was time to work on the front lawn. I asked if he wanted help, he said that he was fine if I wanted to continue knitting (yea!). After he'd been out there for a while I figured I'd see how he was doing. Yeah, that ended up with a trip to the Home Deephole to get lawn seed and peat moss (among other goodies). We have now laid down good dirt, seed and peat moss. We over-seeded with the hopes of getting a really lush lawn.

There is a house up the street that Kev is envious of. Their lawn is spectacular. I keep telling him if he sees the guy (or gal) out working, he should totally go talk with them. Same area, same dirt. It'd be nice to see what they did to make their plot so much prettier than everyone else's. :)

See, that's just how exciting our world is these days. Whole lot of knitting (yes Russ, it sucks for you all who could not give a care about knitting, but it is MY blog). Whole lot of DS playing (I'm sooooo not writing about it unless it's me playing it). And after yesterday, a whole lot of yard word (which was riveting, no?).

So those are the words I choose to write today. Nothing thrilling, but it clues you into what we did this weekend.

let's hear it for the horns

I am used to hearing (and feeling) the bass of random music streaming from cars as they pass in front of the store. It's not a very nice thing, to actually feel the bass from a passing car. Just a second ago, another loud musical car passed by. This time, big band-y. No bass (yes!) but the horn section.

With the sun shining as it is, it seemed right. It made me smile.

flashes of brilliance

So yesterday Kev and I were speaking on the phone, I was at work he was heading to work. We spoke of Simon and how much we seriously dislike him in the morning. Now, don't get all up in arms about that statement. He's a heathen in the morning. Yesterday he started in at 5:50 for breakfast, which is always served promptly at 7:00. He walks on us, cries as if he's dying of starvation, he clacks the blinds (both above us and across the room), he tries to get under my night stand to play with electrical cords...I could go on but I think you get the picture.

We've tried locking him out of the room. He just shakes the door. We've tried wedging something against the door so it can't move, he gets it moving, and then it hits the item we've wedged, making even more noise.

We were almost out of ideas until Kev said something about wishing he had a glass (of bucket) of water to throw on him. Then it hit me...the spray bottle for when I iron!!! Grabbed it last night and this morning, beautiful. Got to actually squirt the little bugger three times and the rest of the times just brandishing the bottle made him run.

Sweet relief!!! :)

a day in the life

Woke at 7:30 to the quiet. I'd kicked Simon out. He is always quiet for a little while then he starts shaking the door. I push a gallon beer jug filled with coins up against it, but he's one strong little cat. When he's quiet for a little while, after the song and dance and shaking the door, I get up to feed them.

I putzed around the house for a little bit, ate a bagel, drank a latte, and fixed the banner on one of the pages of the site for work. All this before 8:30.

I got ready and took Kev to work. I went to Wallgreens and got the Benadryl we will need for Josie for the next 6 weeks (Dr. M is thinking allergy and will check her in 6 weeks). I stopped by Stumptown for coffee and headed to the kids location to take photos of kids Merrells. Got a few great shots, even one of a cute little boy wearing a frog backpack that we sell (he ended up getting it). Will save that shot for a future ad (since I'll be doing them for the next 18 months!).

Spent some time with Abdul at our shop next door (the regular, "big kids" store). We said our goodbyes (tomorrow is his last day).

I called my friend Linsel and we went to lunch. Lovely little Italian place within walking distance of his house. It was quite nice to get out and walk a bit (even if it was in the rain). I got Kev the same thing I had, Penne Putanesca, and took Linsel to his buddy's house over by where we live.

Ran to Kev's work so he could bring me home and have the car tonight at work.

Built an ad for the magazine. Finished writing up two orders and paring down one other. Have loaded all the images onto the computer for adding more to the site (adding a "limited edition" section to one of the brands).

I've now eaten dinner and just have a couple of things to do on the afore mentioned site. Looking forward to not having to pick up Kev tonight at work and getting to hang in my jammies all night with my trio of animal friends.

Might try getting in touch with my Ohio friend...

please, let her be the one!

So I think I met my new coworker yesterday. We're hiring a part timer to work downtown two days a week, with potential for more hours at other stores. This really sweet, bubbly, cute gal walks in last night and says:

"I saw the sign in the window on my walk to work this morning and had to come by tonight to ask about it..."

She works temp work and is done on Friday. She's looking to work a part time job and hoping to get an internship at a publisher. I might even have a couple of places to send her for that. There was a really great energy to her. She would be perfect in my shop, I don't know how I know, I just do.

Other people whom Ahmed has said, "she'll do really well, people will like her, she's sweet, he's been working in the business for blah blah blah" haven't fared too well. I think he needs to let me do the hiring for my shop. Hell, I would have hired her on the spot if I knew the specifics. She's supposed to drop her resume by today and tomorrow (assuming she has, which I really feel she will) I will call her to set up an interview with Ahmed for next week. I'm convinced she's looking for what we are offering. Also, she had an old, beat up pair of Dansko shoes on, so...

josie

I know it's been a while since I posted about something other than knitting. Sorry kids, it's just really exciting I'm starting AND FINISHING projects left and right.

I digress.

On Monday we were scratching on Josie when we realized that a small spot on her right hip had turned into a large spot on her right hip and small spots on her back. She's losing spots of hair. We're not sure what's going on, other than it's most likely some allergy. We took her in on Monday to the vet to see what's going on. Bloodwork came back fine. Thyroid slightly elevated but nothing to be alarmed by. He has her on 50mg of Benadryl, twice a day. Does it affect dogs as it does me, by knocking them out? Josie is already zonked, but it's our bedtime so who knows? We'll see if tomorrow she's sluggish after her morning dose.

I'll keep you all posted.

a teaser

I have started my "damn" scarf. I am using the Electric Youth blue that I bought from Kristin a while ago. It's lovely to work with. I have to watch myself because I can easily split the yarn. But the color varition is just amazing. (I'm using #9 needles. CO 31 sts. k2/p2)

Meanwhile around my house, Kevin is watching Harold and Kumar Get White Castle (or something like that). Simon is sitting on him looking at him annoyed because he's getting shaken by the laughter. Josie is sleeping in the living room with her stick. Chloe is in the back somewhere sleeping. I'm going to head to bed soon and perhaps knit a bit more.

life without fear!

Well, the black lariat scarf thing is done. It's not mine. I think I wanted it to be, but really, it's Diana's. I will take it to her tomorrow. She has no idea. I just don't wear that much black, especially that close to my face. Just not a good color.

I've now begun on something that WILL look good that close to my face. The Electric Youth scarf!!!!!! I am loving it so far. The pattern, k2/p2 ribbing, isn't as annoying as I remember it. Probably because I've got a few more things under my belt and I'm not fearing the known. Unknown, bejeezers out of me. Known, no fear at all.

I will have to get pictures of the lariat tonight, as well as the beginning of damn scarf, blue. Even though I don't dislike knitting the pattern again, I think it will always be called the Damn pattern/scarf/etc.

Wow, when did this turn into a knit blog? :)

i fear i'm slipping

Towards the world of starting project prior to current project being completed. I'm making that little black, lariat kind of scarf thing. Great, it's going well. But, well, I'm bored by the double drop stitch (at least that's what my friend/guru Jenn calls it...not sure if that is its real name). I crave to use the Electric Youth I purchased from Kristin. After her post of wanting to spin yarn, I'm wanting to use hers to make a gorgeous scarf for myself. I'm going to use the same pattern I used for Kev's scarf, the mistake pattern. I can see myself sitting up front tonight knitting away on it. The beauty of it, I could easily be done with the other if I'd stop typing and start knitting. Not a bad idea.

is that what i think it is?

After picking Kev up from work yesterday (post a random errand day with Jill and Mark) we entered the house to find...a dead mouse. This is the second we have come home to. Well, the second I've come home to, as Kev was privileged enough to miss out on the first one. My friend Reagan got to "be" with me for that one since we were chatting on the phone.

Anyway, we walk in and Kev's going to the bedroom to change out of his work clothes. He stops in the middle of the hallway and starts saying, "Josie, leave it! LEAVE IT!" She does and she comes back to me. He says, "Do you think that's a real dead mouse?" Um, yes.

Chloe is standing soooooo proudly by it, wanting to show off her prize. She was the one last time who basically brought it to me too.

So, we got to talking about it all last night. We never see evidence of having mice, no poop, no ripped open bags of food, etc. The only evidence we ever see is the actual dead mouse.

Life with mousers, should we sleep with one eye open?

in which i talk a lot of knitting

It's really funny once someone learns how to knit. In this story, that someone is ME.

You start asking random people if they made the hat they are wearing because you think it is really cool and want to take notes of what they've done. I could totally tell she did even before she answered because the look of pride that flashed to her face.

Then, they tell you that they will take photos of knit things they like, so that later on, attempts to recreate can happen. The memory of "I brought my camera today!" sprang to mind. So you ask her if she minds...

And she doesn't.

I totally want to try making this with a ball of yarn that has no project. I always thought it'd be a small beanie type hat, but not until I saw that girl's hat did I realize how it'd be done. So cute!!!

Oh, I suppose I should share the mohair creation I have named the *ahem* "Effing" Scarf. I should preface this image with this: mohair is not fun to work with for me (perhaps I have mentioned this before). Little bits of fluff fly through the air and get stuck all over everything. It snags on itself. I could go on. HOWEVER, I love the way this scarf turned out and it was worth every! single! minute!

the girl of a thousand bags

Hello. I would like to speak to you all about a problem that many women, including myself, face each and every day. I call it bagitus. In Laymens terms that means, I have too many damn bags, purses, backpacks, etc. and therefore change bags almost every single day. Here's the thing though, I am always looking for the next "perfect" has everything you could want in a bag, bag.

You'd think that the search could be called off since I have at least 10 hanging in my closet right now. 10. Who needs that many bags?! The only good thing, I suppose, is that I use each one. Each one is perfect for the time I carry it. Today, it's the perfect day to bring out my old backpack. I've got a load of things to carry in with me to work and I don't feel like straining my one shoulder/arm because I'm using the wrong bag. The backpack expands and can fit more in it, right now it's not expanded and doesn't need to be, but knowing that it's possible and I CAN bring more home tonight...priceless.

What confuses me most of the time is when I see women carrying their backpacks (the bus I ride in on picks up many students heading to PSU downtown), anyway, these women are lugging their over stuffed backpacks as well as a purse. I suppose I just answered my confusion there. The backpacks are too stuffed with books and such so they have to carry a purse with the wallet, mobile phone, etc. I suppose I'm just a minimalist girl (hah) and don't like to carry too many bags at once. It's really my belief that you should be able to get through life carrying on bag at a time. Of course, grocery shopping, clothes shopping, etc are the exceptions. But on a day to day basis, really, you want to be lugging around three different bags?

There is a woman on the bus. She usually has two medium sized bags as well as her purse. She's constantly struggling with all the straps and drops stuff as it's her turn to get off the bus. I just want to ask her, "why so many at one time? why not just find one larger bag?" She carries all three on the same arm so before anyone suggests she has the two medium ones so she can balance herself, that's not happening from what I see.

I don't see myself getting rid of any of them soon. I guess I will just be the girl who changes her carrying devices as often as she changes her undies...each and every day.

Can't. Look. Away.

You have got to be kidding me. I happen to have on American Inventor (or whatever it is called). The first guy, I can't even believe he is for real. Let's just say his "invention" had something to do with "farts"...and he didn't go through.

This show is almost as ridiculous as American Idol, but without the painful singing. The judges are all like Simon, from what I've seen thus far.

It's a train wreck, I can't look away. The second guy is a true salesman, but his invention, not so hot. How many people in the world play football? He did put on a little play though. The judges are going to give him a try.

And now there is a naked woman...

Now, what I want to know is, what is the premise? Do they then have to come up with another idea or are they going to then put their invention into motion and see which one is the best in the end.

Okay, blogging and trying to not watch this show is becoming increasingly difficult. I really should work on an ad I need to get in by the 11th of April, but I'm not feeling it tonight. I'll take the computer with me tomorrow so that I can play around while at work.

happy spring

The first day of spring is a beautiful thing. After Kev got back from the afore mentioned "dumb meeting" he, Josie and I went to Waukeena Falls and walked up to the stream head. It's amazing to us to see such a small amount of water at the top and walk back down next to roaring falls almost the whole way down. Josie was in heaven, Kev and I just hiked quietly today (we spoke some, but mainly we felt our bodies responding to movement again).

We stopped at Safeway and grabbed a couple of sandwiches (Best. Sandwiches. Ever.) and then we zipped home to eat before we decided to detail the car. I suppose our form of spring cleaning is a bit different, instead of the house...

Man, it is looking good. Inside and out! Kev vacuumed while I dry dusted everything. Then he washed the exterior and I climbed in and cleaned the interior. Those Clorox wipes work really well to get into the nooks and crannies. The windows even got washed. Never such satisfaction as when I wiped away all the nose prints from Josie's window.

Speaking of Josie, she's zonked. Full out, on the side, barely able to wag her tail, zonked. She'll sleep well tonight, as will we. Well, the laundry just called. Must go flip the comforter around and dry it again (perhaps the third time will be the charm?).

do i have anything in my teeth?

Hello, my name is Shannon and I lack the ability to sleep in past 7:30 am on my weekends.

Even on a morning where Kev has to get up to go to a dumb meeting for his work (meaning HE gets up to feed Simon, Josie and Chloe) I can not stay in bed. It's like an illness or something. I was totally fine, slumbering away and then his alarm went off. Okay, no big deal, I can sleep through his one snooze (btw, I HATE snooze buttons with a passion. I say get up when you have your alarm to set to wake you because those extra 7-9 minutes DON'T. DO. ANYTHING.).

He is up, everyone is fed, Josie's been let out and back in, things are looking positive. Wow, I'm going to totally get a sleep in morning. I get to be the one still in bed with an orange cat and a black dog flanking her. I am the one who gets to roll over to his side of the bed with a triumphant sigh. I am the one...who hears him taking out the trash but not the recycling so I am the one who gets up to drag it to the curb. And then I am the one who is up for her day. I've already got my latte made and my half of an Everything bagel almost consumed (I wish they wouldn't use fennel on Everything bagels...not a huge fan I must say).

I now have a load of laundry going and was even contemplating getting a start on picking up the house (it's amazing how dirty it gets in a week when you have three, make that two since Chloe doesn't really shed as much as the other two, so two animals whom shed simply when you look at them).

I will find a hike for us to take today, since it is just that beautiful here, and I will be dressed and ready to go when Kev gets home (in about two hours we are guessing).

Now excuse me, I must go pick fennel out of my teeth....shudder.

mashed taters

"You're the kind of table we talk about, because you are so cool . . ."

Not to date myself, but ROCK ON! That was said to us tonight while we were eating dinner at one of our favorite spots for comfort food (not that we needed comforting tonight, but since it was slightly cold out, Delta sounded good).

We laughed about it, talked about our coolness and came home to finish up some orders and putz on the net (me) and play tiny Nintendo (him...and I can't remember the name of the machine...DS).

I am going to go to bed soon and you know what? That's cool.

he likes it, he really likes it!

So I have just gotten done showing Ahmed what I've done to the shops site (would that have an 's?). He was really impressed. He suggested a couple of things, one of which I knew he would and am cursing myself for not doing it in the first place...oh well. The rest, he just loves. He is excited about the new banner I am creating for the top of the page. He is just really impressed, from what he told me. I had such a good time, even though I was on the computer for close to 12 hours straight. He was amazed by that. I think he now knows why I wanted to play with the site and trusts me to play even more (I'm probably close to halfway done).

Okay, back to lunch.

search better on acid?

I am sitting here trying NOT to obsess on the things I haven't gotten done at my works website. There was a commercial on for Ask.com. I swear it sounds like the announcer is saying "search better on acid".

Ahhh, after 11 hours (not quite straight, but really close actually), I'm not quite done with all that I want to do. There are a few links that I'm not happy with, but will fix them up tomorrow.

As for now, I'm turning off the computer and watching My Name is Earl.

too funny

what a day. met a really funny woman who was here with some conference. she bought two pairs of shoes then came out with jill and i for drinks. too funny for sure!

am looking forward to a day in my jammies! will be working on website and finalizing our orders for fall 06. yea.

kev is home.

good night.

this is me, turning over a new leaf (for this week at least)

I am constantly amazed by my online cyber world friends who can, and do, post new things each and every day (although weekends often times are taken and it's not until Monday that new things are posted, but hell, everyone deserves time away). I feel as though I've let you all down (I can hear Kev already saying, "Russ says you need to update your blog!").

I am going to do my best to post real things, often.

Right now, for instance, Simon is staring me down, making like he's going to swiftly jump onto the desk where my cereal bowl is sitting (among other stuff). He's all nonchalant about it, looking around (oooh, what's that? something shiny?) trying to allow me time to let my guard down. Let me tell you, it's not going to happen. I have cat like reflexes just like him from all the years of living with the creatures. I can foil even his most diabolical of plans.

Damn, while I was creating the links to the blogs the little shit got up here...oh he's so cute, I suppose it doesn't matter. :)

Today is another day, just like the days past and much like the days to come. I am hoping it does not hold anything horrible, but is just another day. Speaking of that, I must gather cd's to take to make today a nice, smooth day. And I have to get going on the making of my lunch. I know, it's exciting, isn't it?!?

blank

I am trying to think of things that we did this weekend that would intrigue and inspire. Nothing is coming to mind.

The mohair, not as horrible as I make it out to be, but it is hard to work with (the scarf it is turning into is going to be beautiful, and it wants to be the scarf, it's just finding the desire to work on it). I am a believer in finishing things I start. A surprise for many of you since in the past I'd start a project and like a raccoon find something shiny and lose all interest in the original project. I have half finished angel pillows hanging around my craft room. I have sketches for all kinds of pillows I'd love to make. I have fabric waiting to find out what it's going to be.

Knitting has been different though. I've made myself wait to start projects until I'm done with the current project, whatever it is I happen to be working on. However, I always have the next project in mind when I start a new one. Like I know I want to try to make a thin, black scarf type thing in the same "double drop" stitch I am doing with the mohair, just to see what it will do. BUT I have the Electric Youth blue that is asking to be made into a k2/p2 ribbed scarf/cowl prior to that.

Maybe I'll take the mohair with me today and get to work on it at work. I always feel a bit guilty, knitting at work, but when there is nothing left to do...what, I should just sit there? Then again, when is there nothing left to do?

Okay, I'm out.

done and done

And knit day is over. It was a short one this month because people had dinner engagements, Cirque de Soliel dress rehearsals, and life to attend. I got a bit more done on the mohair scarf, I've dubbed it the effing scarf. I HATE mohair (perhaps I've mentioned it before here?).

Anyway, Josie and I have already gone on a walk as well. I am sure Kev was surprised when we spoke and not only was knit day done, but I was out walking the dog without him having to prompt me. Hell, it's beautiful out. I don't need prompting on pretty days.

Kev's heading home. I've got a warmed cider next to me. Simon is all snuggled up in my arms as I type and all is right with my world.

is it 2:30 yet?

The house is clean. The animals, all napping. Food is on its way to being prepared. Chairs are arranged and waiting for my friends/fellow knitters to come and sit. Anticipation has always been hard for me. The party doesn't start for another hour and forty minutes, but I am all ready. Perhaps I inherited this preparation gene from my mom? I think so.

I have the bowls out for the various chips, crackers and cookies. Josie is all aflutter waiting now. She knows to expect people since the living room is all out of order (at least her order) and every time she hears a car door shut she instantly thinks it's someone coming here.

I suppose I can finish making a playlist for today...yeah, that's what I will do.

non stop entertainment!!

Life around my house, if anything, is never dull. Not only do I share my life with Kev (the fabulous husband), but I get to live with three of the most inspiring, entertaining and infuriating creatures. Simon is the leader. He was since the day he moved in. However, I'm getting ahead of myself. I'd like to share with you all the way they came to be in our lives, and where else to start but with our eldest,

Chloe.

Kev and I had just moved in with each other when we discussed the idea of getting a second cat. One that could be "ours" as Bob was really "mine" (although Bob was known to remove himself from my lap when Kev would get home so he could greet him). We ventured to the local Kansan SPCA. We were NOT going to get a younger cat (aka, kitten). I wanted to adopt an older kitty friend. We went to the "wrong" part of the cattery and entered the world of kittens and juvenile cats.

I spotted Chloe from the moment we walked into the room. She didn't really mew too much, but did chirp a little. We took her out of her cage and she sunk into my chest and started purring. Her beautiful green eyes watching mine. She was only four months old so we told her we owed the older kitties to take a look at them, knowing full well she was our kitten. She instantly became Kev's cat. She would crawl all over him, when not tormenting Bob.

She's now 8 years old. She's known every other kitty we have ever had (Bob and Fred...). She took care of Bob when he no longer could keep himself clean and she made Fred her bitch. She's a special gal in my life and when I look at her I still can't help but think, I am the luckiest girl in the world who gets to live and love Chloe.

Simon.


We had just gone through the horrible loss of our Freddie Lumkins. He was a total doll baby. We couldn't watch Chloe pine for him so we decided to go take a look. We entered the new cattery at the Portland SPCA and began the tour. I had previously told Kev that I really wanted an orange boy. We had already agreed on adopting a boy cat (keep the ratio right in the house). There were some very sweet cats there, but none were the ones for us. Until we turned the very last corner.

"Clarence," the sign read, "is four years old, domestic short hair, etc etc." We looked at him and didn't think there was any chance he was 4 years old and aged him at about 4 months, an easy mistake. We asked to visit with ol' Clarence and went to the room and waited. He was tiny. His right buttock was shaved. He was nosy as all hell. Once his nose stopped going overboard he snuggled right between the two of us and started falling asleep. Hook, line and sinker.

From the moment that boy entered the house we knew he would be the house Godfather. The Godfather is four and a half years old...Chloe's still pissed about the whole arrangement.

Josie.

We had been at a party. One where one of you gets totally loaded and the other understands and is the designated driver. Let's just say the drive home was lovely and I remember all of it. :) I hung out with the coolest dog that night. Her name is Sister. Yellow Lab.

On our way to the car Kev calls out, "We can get a dog if she's as cool as Sister." Well, seeing as I was the dd and was going to remember those words, I set to the task of finding Bowzer.

We'd originally said, no dog before Kev got a job and definitely not before my family was coming for the holidays. But when he uttered those very words "we can get a dog..." I could not contain myself. I visited petfinder.com daily. I have no idea how many emails I sent him by the end. All those faces of those in need.

Then I came across Bowzer. She was my dog, our dog, and I knew it. She was the only one he responded with "I would adopt this dog" via email. We sent in the application and heard back that same night. Kev was to meet her the next day and make the decision. She had been fostered for a week with Karen and from the moment he took her leash, two days after that email, she was home.

I remember talking to him on the phone as he was walking with her. The excitement in his voice. He asked me what he should do and I told him to follow his heart because I already knew she was ours. He brought her to the store where I was working late. She still had no name (cuz I was surly NOT calling her Bowzer). So excited about everything, but very cautious. I wanted her to know I was her mom, but she just kind of shrunk back to Kev's side. However, when I got to the car, wiggles all over. And I asked Kev what he thought about Josie, like the outlaw.

Now she greets us each and every morning with wiggles and kisses because "HEY! YOU'RE HERE AND I'M HERE AND YOU'RE AWAKE!" Actually, she's like that every time we leave and enter the house (no different from a few minutes to many hours either, same wiggles and kisses). Even at four years old she's still got all those wiggles.

These three are something else. They are funny and make me laugh each and every day. They also have the ability to drive me batty (insert Dad's phrase, "that's not a drive, that's a short putt") and make me want to bang my head against a rock. But I love them. I love to watch their interactions with each other and with us and our friends.

And trust me when I say, there is never a dull moment...seriously, just trust me.

check

Wow, what an amazing day I had yesterday.

It started with me getting up WITHOUT an alarm at 7:30 (unless you can call the round orange creature we live with an alarm. then i did wake up with one, although i never once hit snooze). I took my time getting ready (well, as much as i could take since i was having to take kev to work). As soon as I dropped Kev at work I realized that the store I was going to go to first didn't open until 11:00 (and he didn't even know i was having thursdays away from my shop downtown so he was a bit perplexed to say the least). I got the photos of the two stores on Hawthorne (which honestly, they are all looking alike now because we have the same set up in each store, the walls are lined with racks of shoes). I then zipped over to the shop on Broadway (and had a lovely time talking with Barbara).

That task taken care of (i even got all the photos loaded straight to my new computer right then and there so no having to do it later when i uploaded the file to the publisher's website) I went to lunch with my friend Linsel. We had a wonderful talk (one in which i tell him everything that is on my mind about recent events, and don't hold anything back...nor does he). We discuss doing this at least once a month (i don't think i could do every week, we took a long lunch). I dropped him off at home and then headed there myself (where the trio was sooooo excited because they think anytime we are away from the house for any amount of time as soon as we get back, they get fed). I told them they were sad, sad creatures if they thought they were getting fed at 2:00 in the afternoon (and they did all settle down as soon as i sat down at the computer in my craft room).

Invoices, ready to send. CHECK

Photos, uploaded to the publisher's site. CHECK

Orders, written up. CHECK

Today I will take the orders in to my boss and get his feedback (which will result with me rewriting a couple, either adding styles or decreasing styles....although i've gotten quite good at knowing what he wants for the shops).

Today I will tell him how wonderful it was to actually get everything done without the stress of having to stop halfway through some project to help someone on their quest to find the shoe that fits their "hard to fit foot."

Today I will be calm.

snow, falling

sigh, big.

day, beautiful.

tasks, complete.

long lost friend

When I was growing up I remember every year during the summer the arrival of the day that was inevitable. You know the day of which I speak. The day boredom moved in with it's sleeping bag for the rest of the summer until school would start again.

I would pine and moan and call out such things as, "Daaaaad. I'm BORED!" To which Dad would reply, "Nothin' wrong with bein' bored. Bein' bored is okay."

I couldn't fathom what he meant by that...until now. What I would give to have a day where I had so little to do that boredom would set in! I flirt with it every so often, but never enough to really say that I was, in fact, bored. I sometimes will write to a friend during work about how bored I am, but when I get to thinking about it, it's just avoiding doing work and not true blissful boredom.

and the back

I will now try to load a picture of the back of the leg, the other part she did today. All I have to say is this, it is so nice to be this excited. People will comment about, "nice ink" and instead of going on and on about how it really is not the best tattoo I now am ecstatic and sharing with them Naomi's name.

Again, don't scroll further if you don't want to see it...

plastic view of the sea

Anyone who is not a fan of the tattoo and what not may want to not read this post (with pics).





Session 3. (sorry didn't update at session two, but it was really ground work and not all that exciting). However, today's session was great. Three and a half hours. The constant sound of that gun. The warm sun on my back (for half of it the sun was out and glowing on me).

And this is what happened as I laid there basking in the sun.
I'm trying to upload the back now, but am having issues with blogger...it runs slower on the laptop for some reason. One more try. No luck. Will publish it later. :)

can you see what's on the screen?

A few weeks ago I began the job of cleaning out my sewing room (well, what I call my sewing room but more it's a catch all of crap). I had one box of random recycling that I had to sort (you know, shred, no shred). No big deal.

As I worked through the boxes of papers I realized I needed something else, other than just clearing the mess. The flow was not working and I knew it would have to be fixed to get the good creative mojo flowing. I got to thinking how nice it would be to have a comfortable chair in the room so I could sit back in the warmest room of the house on the cool winter nights and knit. Although, the room is the size of a postage stamp (read, not even our queen sized bed would fit in it) and I didn't know how I was going to get it to happen. Then, I had an idea...move the bookcase to the closet! I'm not really liking the ties to the left of the door and am thinking those may be coming down shortly. Other than that, I'm really quite pleased with the way it's shaping up. I mean, it's not custom or fancy pants, but it is exactly what I needed to do in order to get my comfortable chair into the room.

I moved the computer/sewing table around to give myself a small corner for the only "comfy" chair in the house (and until I re-stuff the seat cushion it's not quite the most comfortable chair).

I apologized to Chloe (you see, she'd loved running through the house and up the side of that chair when it was in the living room). She just watched me with her big eyes. I carried it back and set it into place.

Perfect.
I can now come back here and spend the evening knitting while listening to music through the world wide web.

Simon and Josie seem to like it (I'm thinking about getting a bed for her while she's in here, you know instead of the hardwood floor). Simon just hangs on the table top with me as I write this entry (although the birds have demanded his attention so now he's staring wide eyed and alert out the window).

I can't wait until Kev gets home to see what I've been up to. He's been waiting for me to tackle the box of ugliness for a while now. I feel rather accomplished.

We are heading to an Oscar party tonight (thankfully not a fancy dress party) and I suppose I should get going...must get ready for my close up. Although it'll be hard to tear myself away from my new computer.

My three favorite machines, computer, sewing machine and serger.

Okay, I'm out.

it's linktastic

I get up and go to the bedroom so I can get ready for bed (what, a girl can put on her pj's at 7:30 at nigh). As I pass the kitchen, where Simon is sitting in a box (what is it with boxes lately?) he jumps out and runs back with me. Josie hears us and decides she needs to see what we are doing. Chloe just sits on her dresser hoping I am going to give her more food (she's really turned begger thing on lately).

I'm grabbing my slippers and Josie is standing watching me. Simon walks up and rubs against her. He stops right under her chin. She looks down at him and starts licking him. I watch with a feeling of love growing inside. As I continue to watch them I notice she's nibbling on him. You know, like they do when they have an itch or are trying to get stuff out of their fur? Simon was just in ecstasy.

I feel lucky to have Josie and her pussycats in my life. The three are really quite special (and very lazy about updating their diaries...).

soon...soon

I have gotten word from the guy who does the schedules that not Thursday the 16th, but the 23rd I will be starting the whole "not going into the actual store to do work, but working from either home or the outlet store on our website" deal that my boss and I determined would be happening. The person who had needed Thursdays off is now able to work them again (yesterday was his last Thursday no work day) so I assumed that we would start this sooner (I was really hoping for next week). I'm a bit perturbed that Mr. Schedule is saying I have to wait. Not sure why.

Oh well, I must be patient. I will continue to take work home with me, shush. I have a few more orders to write up tonight as well as some things to design for Bambuseae. Tomorrow we are going to meet our friends for dinner and a drink after I get off work. Sunday an Oscars party (where we probably won't really watch, but eat much food and drink...water). Monday I'm supposed to have work done on the ink, but it's her partner's birthday so I think I'm going to call and postpone it myself. :) I offered, she declined. She did sound quite appreciative though (damn, I am a multi tasker, no?).

I'm kind of looking forward to a night at home alone. I am debating whether I should even take work home with me (a resounding NO is coming from the commentors I know). But, I have the show on Sunday the 19th. I need to present my reps with the orders at that time AND I need to run them all by Ahmed before I go. IF I were to have next week to work from home, I'd just make myself wait. BUT that's not going to happen. Maybe I'll call Mr. Schedule and see why he can't have the other guy in until the 23rd...

Okay, much to do and half an hour to do it.


**update**

I ended up NOT bringing any work home. And the talk with Mr. Schedule went well. He is even going to try to work something out so it could possibly start next week. Keep your fingers crossed! So much to do on our website...

how you doin?

So the thoughts have been swarming through my head today. I started wondering, how does everyone else go about writing for their blogs? Personally, I don't do any preparation, no notes (although I always have ideas and should really write them down so I don't forget them once I sit in front of the computer and draw a blank as to what I had been thinking about). I usually just sit and let the words exit my brain as they want. But I've been thinking about that lately. Why don't I do some prewriting? Why don't I make notes as the thoughts are fresh in my mind? Am I lazy? Too busy? Both?

you have my socks!

I love working downtown in a large city. There is never a want for good people watching. Usually I can get away with watching and not interacting. Sometimes, they come in. There is one guy who walks by regularly and every once in a while will look in, flash a huge smile and wave like his arm is about to fall off. I can go days without seeing him, sometimes weeks, but then he is back, waving like a maniac. Once he's come in and told me I looked like I could use a hug. Luckily my dear friend Linsel was visiting and I said, "Oh, no, I just got one from my boyfriend." To which the man replied, "Oh, yeah, he's a big guy...next time." That was quite a while ago. Today was the day he decided to walk by right as I was towards the front of the store. He waved, pointed at some pink flip flops in the window and flashed the thumbs up...before walking in.

I said goodbye to the customer who'd just been in and was on her way out when he came in. She flashed me the "good luck" smile. He kept asking how large certain styles went to. "Women's eleven" was always the answer. "Oh, I wish they made them in my size..." Then he found the socks.

him: "Oh you have my socks! It was my birthday not long ago."

me: "Isn't that great. Happy Birthday."

him: "I'm just trying to give my friend ideas as to what she could get me."

me: "Mmhmmm (knowing he was speaking of me)."

him: "You know who I'm talking about, don't you? YOU!"

me: "Well, I can't give socks away for free. I like my job."

him: "You could buy them for me!"

me: "I don't have enough money to, I'm sorry."

him: "Well, I'll be back next....Wednesday. Yeah, I'll see you Wednesday."

I have no doubt that I will not be seeing him next Wednesday. I will probably go weeks again without seeing his big, smiling face walk by my shop.