labor of love and introspection

ahhhh, siblings.

vegas, baby. vegas!

I have this urge to watch Swingers...

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

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

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

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

W: Seriously! Vegas!

Me: Vegas, Baby! VEGAS!

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

VEGAS BABY!!!

single shot

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

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

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

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

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

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

i'm pretty sure

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

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

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

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

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

yoga/knitting...

YARN HARLOT!!!!

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

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

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

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

sigh

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

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

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

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


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

this weekend

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

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

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

rituals

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

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

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

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

seriously?

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

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

So, any big plans out there blogvillians?

a year and two days

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

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

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

out of my reverie

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

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

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

Sigh

right below

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

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

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

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

toe-mate-ers

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

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

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

list, gotta stick to my list

1. It is warmer today than yesterday.

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

3. Organic bananas are sweet and yummy.

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

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

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

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

8. My hair is CRAZY LONG!

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

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

food for thought

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

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

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

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

so freaking close!

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

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

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

and so i wrote

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

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

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

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

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

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

funny thing happened

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

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

Enjoy...

Me and Jen at knit night:

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

Fisher Ben:

Zoe and Augusta...

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

sitting at the airport

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

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

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

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

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

Love you and miss you already!!!

nosy rosy

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

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

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

And with that, I'm done.

chaos, fish, and pizza

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That's all for now.

knit night fun!

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

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

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

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

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

life is good

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

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

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

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

SURPRISE!

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

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

Tonight we are going to dinner to celebrate.

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

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

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

glorious weekend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

update for the sake of updating

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

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

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

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

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

houston, we have progress

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

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

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

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

tonight, we knit

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

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

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

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

what, me plan?

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

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

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

Latte!

when moths attack

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

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

So my list of chores today:

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

meeting friends

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

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

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

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

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

some mornings

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

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

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

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

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

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

please, check your brain at the door

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

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

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

i get the email

And it says:

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

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

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

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

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

Namaste

sally mander

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

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

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

This is where we spent all day yesterday:

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

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

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

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

my name was almost whiny mcgee

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

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

In other news:

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

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

with bob marley playin'

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

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

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

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

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

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

when the mind fails...

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

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

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

Oh! Here's one that is good:

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

Okay, I'm tapped out now.

'night.

cat for sale

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

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

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

before:

after:

the correction of color

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

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

before:


after:

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

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

expecting a day

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

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

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

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

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

Still haven't heard from Kev yet.

the littlest fruit

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

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

And sure enough, we do!

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

open letter to the jerkwads

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

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

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

no rest for the wicked

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

Let me share:

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

Tonight, yoga.

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

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

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

Any big plans?

a soothing medley

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

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

an indication?

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

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

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

let the sleeves commence

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

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

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

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

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

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

wow, more cuteness!

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

So, what you think?

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

oh dear doG!

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

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

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

Cheers!

random bits

What to write, what to write...

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

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

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

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

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

my dislike for fireworks outweighs the loathe i feel for parades

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

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

miserly years?

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

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

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

thunder and fireworks

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

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

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

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

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

Be safe this holiday weekend!

at night, it smells like rain

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

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

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

What is to come.

gin + wine = no good things

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

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

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

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

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

failing

Words failing me right now.

dinner and a show

"Are you hungry?"

"I could eat."

"Take me to the place that has the coldest air conditioning in town..."

And so he did. We sat there at Old Chicago (yes, chainy, but oh so cold) eating our meals and zoning out, because really, what could I talk about? "My day was really hot and I napped."

Then, the table behind Kev started looking out the window and talking about something. I look out and see a Range Rover on it's side, with the underneath facing us. How? Did? We? Miss? That? I'm still not sure, but I know when we started eating, traffic was driving down the street all normal like. I guess OC has thick windows to keep all the noise out and the a/c in...

It was that moment, I longed a little for a camera phone. Because I could have shared with you all, the surrealness of it. The two tow truck guys had a bitch of a time getting it back upright.

So, dinner AND a show (in which nobody was hurt, thankfully).

today, with more heat!

Yesterday was a warm one here in the Pacific Northwest. We hit a high of near 98 I think. Today, will be worse...they are estimating a high of 102.

Our kitchen has recently been taken over by the sun. You see, there were these hedges that ran alongside the south side of the house (the side the sliding door off the kitchen opens up to) and our dear neighbor Larry, decided to lop them off at the top. This isn't a bad thing really, because it does let much more light in our house, and it's nice on regular not hotter than hell days. Yesterday was the straw though. To the Deephole we went.

I'd been speaking of wanting vertical blinds for in the kitchen for sometime now. I want to feel as though I'm not being watched whenever I'm in the kitchen (because two years ago Larry decided to "thin" out the hedges and they are still trying to grow in at spots). So anyway, yesterday was the day to go purchase them and install. I was going to wait until this morning, but if you know me, I can't leave any major, power tool involving, project until tomorrow.

I. Must. Do. It. Now.

So I did. And they are up and they are wonderful. I am hoping that we do notice a difference in how hot the kitchen gets today. Although, today might not be the best day to judge since it's, in theory, an abnormally hot day for us. But you can see, they do make the kitchen nice and dim...

And the animals can still push them aside to see out. They were not the most $$ ones, which is good. They do the job. They just bumped our property value higher? Sigh...

*Update*
It does make a HUGE difference. I am amazed. I mean, thin pieces of vinyl really do hold out the sun and heat. Huh. Who knew?

However, it's really friggin' hot in here and I am ready for tomorrow, when it's supposed to be closer to 85...

too hot

It's the end of June. Too early for a heat wave, but that is what they are calling this. Yesterday it got to 95 I think. Today, closer than that to 100. Yeah, I wish we humans would STOP SCREWING UP THE EARTH!

GLOBAL WARMING IS HAPPENING PEOPLE!

It boggles my mind that there are people on this earth who think they are all powerful, or worse have the "there's nothing I can do" syndrome. Both types of people are the same though. They both do what they please because even if they did alter their habits a bit, it really wouldn't make a difference, right? They throw everything away because that's what the landfills are for. My question to them is, what happens when they become landFULLS? Where then does the trash go? Shoot it into space? M'kay, not a great plan. We are small. We do not have the right to trash the earth AND the universe, but most people don't realize this.

I've noticed for ourselves, our recycling bins are fuller and fuller and our trash can has less and less each week. This makes me happy. I have an offer from friends who found a non assembled compost bin in their backyard...I haul it away, it's mine. Of course, I wish they'd just erect it and use it, but they don't feel they have the space for it. Hell on that, I'll make the space for it!

What can you do to help save the earth from an early death? Because we are killing her slowly (although that slowly really has sped up over the last few years which scares me to no end).

randomness

Okay, so all too often when I see families running around the city together I see kids carrying bottles of soda to sip on. It generally makes me sad to see them consuming so much sugar and calories (I'm amazed how much those drinks can pack in them). Just now, saw a lovely family walk by my store. The son...drinking water. Those parents, doing something right!

Next

My arms have begun speaking to me again, but my legs are still holding out. They aren't sure they want to go in the directions I am asking them to. Standing from sitting, still not their favorite motion.

Next

My boss is stuck at one of his stores. He had someone call in sick. This is the same someone who's given her two weeks notice. It's a beautiful day out. S'all I'm sayin'.

Next

I am getting to make Cheshire Cat hats. I went and got the yarn this morning while I had a coworker here with me. I got the sweetest pink and purple Debbie Bliss Cashmerino. I will probably make them similarly to the hat I made for Augusta. Straight across the top with tassels.

Next

We bought a firepit. We've had one fire in it already. It will be lovely for evenings with friends. We are also feeling the drive to work on the patio. All in good time. I will share photos as we complete the next phase of the backyard clean up, redo.

Next

I am now out of things that have been swarming around in my mind. I just want to get home so I can get some hats on the needles...

namaste

The summer solstice has come and gone. We welcomed it with open arms, extended towards the sky and sun as if to grab onto each ray that caressed our bodies. We bowed down to it in thanks and admiration. Without that beautiful sun, we simply would not be. 108. Some were free form. Others, practiced in synch with my best friend. All were lovely and thoughtful.

Arms, tired.

Psyche, rejuvenated.

We discussed the number 108. It holds much meaning, as my dear friend FemaleGradStudent noted in my comments yesterday. Some of the most intriguing and amazing things were: 108 earths could fill the space of the sun. The earth is 108 times the suns circumference away from the sun (I think it was circumference). There are 108 stitches on a baseball.

And one we did not discuss...I will be casting on 108 stitches when I start my sleeves.

108

I'm not sure what the significance of the number is, but that is how many salutes to the sun we will be making tonight.

Happy Summer Solstice.

It so happens that this year it falls on a Wednesday. A little more than a month ago Diana asked Jill and I if we'd be interested in participating with her at the Yoga Shala for the Summer Solstice, 108 Sun Salutations. We said yes, we'd love to. I am anxious and excited. I am nervous and in awe. 108...wow.

It's been said you don't have to actively do all 108, but listen to your body and do what you can and when your body says to rest, think of the salutes and in your mind you are saluting. Someone said to me yesterday, "you're already thinking of copping out?" after I had mentioned that was an option. I don't look at is as copping out, but rather listening to my body and not allowing my ego to rule my practice.

Whatever you do today, do it with thanks to the sun.

who knew?

The shop I work at is dog friendly, rather I've made it so. I just had a spaz of a dog in named Kira(?) who I apparently am allergic to. Quite allergic to. My nose hasn't stopped running since she left the store an hour ago. I didn't even get all up in her face, although she would have been a lover dog and loved it. And even though I've washed my hands a couple of times, anytime I put them near my face...ACCCHOOOOO!

I used to be allergic to Simon. He'd lick my chin, my right eyelid would become crusty and nasty. Yeah, that's a pleasant look. I had to stop wearing eye make-up for three months after we adopted him. Finally I had to tell him I couldn't kiss him and he couldn't kiss me. Then, I slowly started smooching on him again after he'd lived with us for a while because I figured I would much rather have a crusty right eyelid and get to smooch on my cat than not. I've never quite figured out why my left eyelid wasn't affected. Now, I'm fine. I've adapted to his dander, saliva and fur. Now he can smooch me too, but I don't usually let him (cuz he bites when he's done licking!).

what is wrong here?

I rather enjoy ironing. Men's dress shirts to be exact. I have an amazing Rowenta iron. We buy Kev Kenneth Cole shirts. Yet, we have a crap ass ironing board. WHY?!?

I know, I must sound either nuts or I don't know what, when you read that. But there is something about the iron sliding over the crisp cotton of a really well made shirt. First you have to spray it with a medium starch and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, when you iron it...perfection.

I learned how to iron when I was a little girl. Mom and I would be in the laundry room on Sunday mornings working on Dad's shirts for the week. She first had me start on his handkerchiefs. I really enjoyed those. Eventually I worked my way up to shirts. She said I had more patience than my sister did when it came to ironing. I think I still do. I'm pretty sure she takes her things to a dry cleaner to have them cleaned and pressed. I prefer to wash them and iron them myself. It brings me an odd satisfaction.

This weekend, we buy me a new ironing board.

check

go to the market and get pork loin for dinner...check
take josie on lovely "crazy" run at the park...check
work on mystery knitting...check
play with green yarn for my sleeves...check
totally forget having to go into the outlet store...check
get call from charles telling me i've forgotten...check
frantically run to the bus and the train to get there...check
make it home in time to make dinner for the two of us...check
enjoy time outside sitting by our new fire pit...check.

wow, really?

So, what have we been up to? Well, you saw what we did last week (see a few posts prior with images of the shed). You saw that I finished one of the cutest baby hats (again, see the last post for that image).

Last night we went to see Built to Spill. One of my favorite bands. Kev got us tickets for our anniversary (we were quite excited that one of their two shows was on a Saturday night). The show was great and the band sounded great, but after their really amazing opening songs, they played some slower tunes and even though I love all the sounds they create, I really wish they'd continued down the "rockin" road they had begun to head down with the first three songs. We both were exhausted and so we took off a bit early (we probably missed two songs total).

Today we got up and went to a strawberry festival with our friends. It's a tradition for her family and now, we're in! We bought a tomato plant (one of my bessers didn't really make it through a massive rain storm we had this past week and even though he was trying...since I had two bessers, thought he could be sacrificed) and shared a flat of strawberries with Jenn and Dugan. We were hoping that the woman who was there last year selling her handspun alpaca yarn would be there again, but alas, she was not.

Afterwards, Jenn and I went to Close Knit and got yarn to make our sleeves. I got a great deal on some superwash merino wool in a celery green. I will show pictures of these sleeves as I progress. Basically, I'm making the tubey arms...but without stripes. I also found some other yarn for a project I will not be speaking of (how is that for carrot dangling?).

Well, Kev's home with our BBQ from Clay's Smokehouse. Yeah, anyone who comes to visit...we're so taking you there!!!

can you stand the cuteness?

I finished Cash's hat on the bus as I was heading home from work today. Cash is the son of our friends Jeff and Dayna, who live right around the corner. Dayna is going to be induced either Sunday or Thursday...depending on how her appointment goes tomorrow.

So, for the info...

CO 90 sts. Knit for about 8 rows, Purl for 2, Knit the rest. Start reduction at 4" in height. *When 25 sts left, put on five DPN and knit i-cord. Make longer i-cord out of blue yarn and tie around others. Done and done.

They loved it. In fact, Dayna said she'd bring Cash home in it! I can hardly stand how much I love this little hat!!!

*Correction: I put ten stitches on one DPN, then 5, 5, 5 on one DPN each. Then I start the i-cord. I hope that make sense to my knitting friends. :)

google it, i dare you

I just was doing an online search for newborn baby hats and when to start with the reduction. I googled "knit newborn baby hat reduction" (sans quotes) and BOOM, my blog is the third on the list I get. Yeah, I don't tell myself any pertinent information though. Most baby hat patterns are calling for reduction to start at 5.5". For a newborn, that just seems too long through the head (does that even make sense?). So...any knitters wanna help me out? Suggestions? My Guru is going to measure a baby head tomorrow ear to ear and let me know. She's having dinner with our friend who just had twins a month ago. Lucky for me, this friend is also a knitter and understands the importance of such things. :)

Okay, let knitting commence...

SCROLL DOWN AND READ THE LAST OF THESE NEXT THREE POSTS FIRST THEN THE SECOND AND END WITH THIS ONE!!!

So, how'd we do? The shed doors now *open towards the house.

All along the fence, to the left in the photo, were where the devil weed was. I'm sure we'll be having issues in the future with it again, but hopefully not for a while.

I think my favorite part, besides having it done, was that we didn't actually kill each other during the process of this whole job. We bit a little, but we both were happy in the end with our results. We've kissed and made up. :)


(*and do they ever glide! Wonders what a level surface will do for that sliding action.)

Oh and in case you are wondering why the three posts? Blogger isn't letting me post more than one photo in a posting. So...thought I'd write it out in three posts and then publish them last to first. Let's see if it works. :)

We ran over to the Mall 205 Home Deephole and grabbed something to eat at the Subway within the "mall." Then, we had to talk with Dan at the Deephole and figured we'd make a frame for it. He helped us figure out the amount of wood we would need. We were going to make a platform for the shed. It was going to be a work of art...

We are quite proud of our efforts. I doesn't look all that level in the image, but it is. The fences, are goofy. The back one is so old, and the other (even though it is new) wasn't done well. Let's just say I'd not ever use that fence company to build anything for me.

So we sat around and patted ourselves on the backs for a while and then realized we were not even near done. We still had to move the shed. That glorious, beautiful shed. And? And? It was beginning to look like rain. M'kay. Not really wanting to move a metal shed in rain as all our garden tools and supplies (you have no idea how that word, supplies, evaded my brain) get wet, we had to...do it.

sundays were made for movin' sheds

I'd had this great post. Witty, fabulous but Blogger ate it. I was trying to post this so it was the first in line, but, it didn't. And then I lost the first in a three part post. So...

This is what we did today.


Or this is where the shed used to reside. We had hoped to salvage some of the wood but yeah, it wasn't going to happen.

let me tell you 'bout the birds and the bees

Well, we have had birds and we have had bees (not in THAT way you guys!). The birds, we'll keep. The bees...well, their fate wasn't so nice.

We've been doing a bunch of work on our backyard. Trying to move things around to give ourselves more space, etc. Granted our backyard is rather spacious already, but the shed has always been in a dumb place. Smack dab in the middle of the fence along the left side of the yard. Not in a corner, but middle of the fence. I don't understand the logic of it. Nor do I understand why whomever bought the shed decided upon a metal shed...in Portland...where it RAINS! We'd thought about getting a newer shed, but decided if we can move the current one and possibly paint it with some Rustolium, we might be able to breathe new life into it (without sinking a ton more money into something we'd have to leave behind whenever we opt to sell this house).

I'd hoped to have pictures of the birds, but Josie kind of made sure to scare them and make them fly away for a little while. But, they are the *Common House Sparrow. The male is rather dashing with his black bib on...


Well, just waiting for Kev to get up so we can get going. He's still lazing in bed. I've tried folding laundry on his head (okay, not really on him, but the basket was on the bed). I've even had full conversations with him (which it will be fun to see what he remembers...this could work in my advantage!). I think he'll be getting up soon now. I'm getting antsy and am ready to go. Okay, I will admit I'm not 100% ready to go, because I'm still in my jammies, but mentally I'm totally on the hike already. And I know as soon as I start changing clothes to more day wear, Josie will go nuts. Hmmmm....

nah, that'd be a mean way to get him up.

(*bird in picture NOT one of "our" friends, but a photo found through google)

again, it's all about friends

We had an impromptu grill night with our friends Kiley and Shannon on Wednesday night. We always enjoy sharing time with them and they have become more like family than just friends (most of our friends are that way really). Anyway, they'd just gotten back from a trip to Idaho where his niece was graduating high school. While there Shannon attended a baby shower for Kiley's sister. She'd been sent emails about it, but to her account she doesn't use anymore. Oops. So, she ran around and bought baby type things to give her sister in law.

I had been thinking of making another newborn hat with the green and blue yarn I have leftover for my friend (the one who is also getting a sweater) and decided that I would make it and let Shannon send it to her sister in law. Is it odd that I fell into a bit of a funk when I had nothing on the needles and nothing in my head as to what the next project was going to be? Was it funny when I knew what I was going to do next, but sad because I have to wait until after we get paid on the 15th? (the whole changing jobs thing, payday changing..must watch the $$ for a little...and the first two weeks of every month is fun because it's mortgage, car payment and a few other bills...all of which say they could change the billing date, but it just is so hard and then we get double billed...blah blah blah).

So, I've got a little blue and green had on my needles. I am happy once more. I tell my friends Shannon and Kiley, thank you.

my true identity revealed

I'm not sure at what age it happened, but it did. I had my hand to my chin, looking at something and I felt it. My first witch hair popping out of my chin. Oh My doG. I swear it had to have been an inch at least. My first thought was "how in the hell did that grow to that length WITHOUT me noticing it before?!?!" My second thought was "where in the hell are the tweezers!" And so it began. My third was "why in the hell didn't someone tell me...like Jill, Kev, anyone?!?!" I'm sure they didn't see it and I'm sure it wasn't truly an inch long, but it felt like it. Now I just have my regular routine, put on moisturizer, feel around on chin and make sure my witchy ways aren't showing. :) I can go for months with nothing and then, almost overnight, one will sprout. Always thick and black. I just don't get it...

you help decide

Which of these two patterns do you like the best?

A. is from Dogs Steal Yarn

It is a cute little wrap around sweater that she says is an easy on kind of deal. Very simple, rough around the edges, and oh so sweet. I am thinking of a sage green color for either boy or girl options. I also was thinking the i-cord tie would look sweet in a stripe, like Mr. Monkey's jaunty scarf from the post earlier. (I must say I rather like the background behind the sweater named the Yoda Sweater)

B. is from Knitty.com

This is a darling little button up sweater with three buttons at the top. I have found a great site for wooden buttons. I am thinking the same sage green color with wooden buttons. I'm NOT going to do any of the other options shown at the site. I'm not for the snakes all over my child look. I don't think the friend I'm thinking of making this for would go for it either. It's a bit more finished looking, so to speak, which is quite lovely in contrast to the Yoda Sweater before. But it's not so futzy that mom and dad wouldn't think to just grab it as an easy sweater to put on their *critter.

(*for some reason, i've taken to calling babies, critters. their heads are called beans)

I think I know which one I will do first...but suggest away (colors as well as which pattern)

now what?

I'm done. No more baby hats right now. Babyblue has been completed. I have another friend who is just newly preggers, but I'm going to possibly try my hand at a sweater for hers. Although I could start on a newborn hat for her (I do have close to 9 months to work on it).

Knitters Afternoon was lovely yesterday. I started with the reduction then and came home to finish up with the i-cord tassels. I CO 80 (although I could have sworn I'd CO 90...but I was left with 79 so 80 is more realistic) Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmino.

But now, now I'm kind of at a loss. I don't have my next project in mind already. This makes me nervous in a way. I mean, I suppose I could figure something out for the next major project. But instead, you know what a girl does when she's at a loss? She makes a scarf for her *sock monkey.




*Said girl did not make the sock monkey, but gave three pair of baby socks to the sock monkey maker and got a free sock monkey out of the deal. Not bad!

20% more baby hat goodness

Okay, so I haven't asked my friend Kris if I can share the picture he sent of his daughter (wow, that feels great to say...his daughter! And Kris, let me know if it's okay). It is a little large on her, but when winter rolls around, she'll be a happy baby.

Meet, the Goofball's.

My dear friend from high school had a baby two months ago. I decided that her daughter (that feels really great to say, too!) needed to have a hat* as well. Now, since they live in the midwest she doesn't really need a 4 ply Debbie Bliss Cashmino (or however that is spelled) fingerweight, knit on #3 circulars, CO 112 sts. It's more for winter. It will be perfect for the winter. I am rather smitten with how this came out. I can't wait to see it on her.

Babyblue is working his way off the needles. I think I have a really sweet idea of how to finish him, but I am going to wait and see what the yarn tells me it wants to do. Meanwhile, enjoy the hat...

*Two babies were borrowed during the making of this hat. Neither were harmed. The first was 18 months old, the second was 10 months old.

not everybody loves a parade

Although maybe I do because it is allowing me to leave a half hour early...

It's the Rose Festival. It kicks off this weekend with the Starlight Parade. At 6:00 the bus mall, where I pick up the #17, is being closed and routes are being altered. However, do you think I can find WHERE my bus will be picking up passengers after 6:00? NO, I can not. The Trimet website, not so much with the being helpful. It's fine, I get out early, that's all that matters.

Tomorrow, knit day. I'm probably not going to go for a really long time, but enough to finish baby blue. Hat #2 is done. I finished it this morning during my knit/coffee ritual. It's so damn cute. I'll get a picture of it tonight and post it. I have to put it on the cookie jar (Josie's cookie jar) so I'm sure she'll be happy again. Every time she hears the jar, it's cookie time. The only time we open it is when we're giving her something so...

Okay, going to do a bit more organizing of the back room before I get to get the hell out of here in an hour!!!