happiness is

The sound of painters getting ready to paint your eaves.

A fat cat sitting on his pillow giving himself a bath.

Your faithful diggity dog at your feet, not barking at the painters.

The washing machine making the noises it makes as it cleans towels from all the guests you've had lately.

The feeling in your arms after a really amazing (read: tough) yoga practice the night before.

A completed ad sitting on the ottoman by your feet.

Knowing that in a couple of hours you will be heading to eat with good friends.

Having your husband tell you he's getting a little more comfortable with the idea of selling your house and buying a new home (getting there, but not quite there yet).

The twitching of your dogs toes as she dreams those dreams dogs do.

Birds singing outside (all except that blasted crow).

Having the windows open, letting the breeze flow through your house.

Being able to lean your head back and type while not looking at the keys (Mom would be proud).

Having good friends who will let you stash your stuff in their garage with NO for sure time of when you'll be getting it out of there.

A vacuum that makes you WANT to clean...speaking of which...

woke up dreaming

I've not dreamt and woken exhausted in quite some time. Last night broke that draught. I had a dream that I was back in college. It was the first day and I had looked at my schedule prior to leaving my dorm room. I left it there, sure I would remember all of my five (!) classes I was to go to. Between classes I realize this is not going to happen and I'm an idiot for not bringing my schedule. I have ten minutes between classes that are across campus from one another. To top it off I am wearing black patent high heels. I'm swearing to those around me that they are really comfortable as I am screaming through campus trying to make it to some Female African Art class.

I think I need a nap.

Thankfully there is nothing pressing to do at the office and so I am working most of the day from home (I went in to capture images of the clogs I had to list at our site today before coming home). The painters should be here soon to paint the eaves. I might bust out the sander and finish the door I started a couple of years ago. Yes, the front door. It's red, but splotchy. Sabo, the painter, offered to do it for me, but I told him I had started it so I had to finish it. I think it made him shake his head a little (we were on the phone so this is just a guess).

maybe baby

I'm kind of thinking that Dad likes Josie and she feels the same way. She's a funny one with him. In the beginning she was a bit unsure of him, keeping her head down but her eyes on him. And then he chucked her cheeks. Anytime he'd sit down, she'd be near.

I also had to laugh because I would catch Mom scritching on Josie's head as well. While talking to her in a sweet voice. Now my mom has not been a real dog person ever. They had guard dogs on the farm, but family pets...not so much. I grew up with cats, of which they still have one. I think, however, Josie is so much like a cat at times that she is growing on my mom.

It was a wonderful visit with them. We got a few things done around the house to get it ready to list. We're not super close to listing, as in next week, but we are getting things taken care of little by little. We've already gotten a pile started at our friends house in their garage. I've got a meeting with a guy in a few minutes to talk about painting our eaves. My boss set it up, it's a friend of his. I am sure we will get quite a deal...

what started out

Dyson DC17 how I love and hate thee...

James Dyson dropped the ball on part of his design. Or perhaps one of the junior designers who probably took on the accessory designs did. I am sure James is just too busy to come up with effective parts. I mean hell, he designed the thing that "doesn't lose suction" why would he feel the need to make all its parts just as fantastic.

The particular model we got (thanks Mom and Dad) has a smaller brush with rotating head (it's called the "mini turbine" and no, I am not making that up) to pick up all the animal fur on sofas and such. The concept is great and it really does a good job, however in those first moments of trying to figure out how the hell the thing attaches to the vacuum, we all almost blew a gasket.

There is a button that you would think clicks into something so it doesn't fall off the tube. You would be wrong in that assessment. I've been informed by no fewer than three employees of the Dyson help line (two via email, one phone) that that button is for an adaptor for another machine, so people can use the mini turbine on their model of Dyson...

So, you have to wedge this thing on the tube and if you vacuum too quickly, it might fall off. So, stop trying to vacuum at warp speed. Mom and Dad were all kinds of annoyed. I was getting there too. The thing was whipped out of each others hands as we all fought to make it work. Finally they left and I lived with the machine. I told myself if that is the way it was designed then maybe I should give it another go and see if I can make it work, without my parents around. I mean I love them (they are actually heading back my way as I type) and I adore the things they do for me, but every once in a while I have to step back and let them do their thing.

Mom said to take it back. It wasn't working like it should. It was inconvenient and hard to manage. At that time, I agreed. I even told the woman on the phone that James had totally missed the mark on the design of that attachment.

Dad agreed with Mom, I think. I was even on board. But then I started thinking about it. I love that little attachments abilities. I love knowing that the fur that is on my sofas will not be as difficult for me to remove (oh the things I would do to get rid of the fur...short of shaving the animals mind you). So this morning, I pulled the machine out of my sewing room. I closed the door to the bedroom because even I know it's rude to vacuum someone into wakefulness at 8:30. I stole away to the cave and I vacuumed. I moved the coffee table. I picked up the dog bed. And then, I attached the mini turbine and decided to just be with it and allow it to do its job.

Even though I still think there should be some way to affix it to the tube so you don't have to worry about it falling off, I found myself enjoying it. It's funny to me how a vacuum can really make you see your home in a different light.

but dove told me

Do you think my boss would buy this? I mean, Dove told me...

It's been fun getting my head back in the game of work. I got to create an ad for a group ad (I just did our spot) that is due tomorrow. I am going to be getting an order together for rain boots for the kiddies for fall. I have another ad due next week.

I thanked my boss for letting me have time off while family was here. He told me to take Monday and Tuesday this next week off to enjoy my parents visit. I can't tell you how much I love working for him. Words fail me over and over to describe it.

I will tell you he is kindness personified.

But even so, I don't think he'd buy this. :) Even if Dove did tell me I was allowed.

whirlwind

I love that word. Whirlwind. It conjures up thoughts of twirling in the yard on a warm summer night. Skirt flowing outward. It makes me think of being absolutely and completely exhausted from running and doing and going and being. It reminds me I need to slow down and enjoy.

This trip with my sister has been a whirlwind. We've done so many things, yet gotten to just sit and visit and catch up as well. I would say some of my favorite parts were the sitting and knitting/crocheting, playing Mah Jong, and going yarn shopping.

The flowers in the box will make me think of her as she stood there watching me plant, suggesting how to make the flower boxes look like they are secure to the house instead of ready to fall off with the heaviest of rains. The clacking of the Mah Jong tiles will make me think of her finally winning a hand last night and rejoicing. The yarns I purchased while she was with me ooohing and ahhhing will make me smile, remembering.

It's been a great visit.

look mom, something got done!

You can't really see, but there are two colors of pansies planted (purple and red) along the potato vine in each box. My sister and I got this done this morning, after making the boxes not look as though they are falling off the house. I realize as I write this they do kind of still look like that in the photo, but not in real life. The plants are perky now after a full day of sunshine.

The three pots to the left of the bushes got planted on Saturday by my dear Mom. She enjoys getting her hands dirty every once in a while.

Today was spent planting flowers and knitting things. A perfect day one might say. After a full day of making beautiful things out of yarn we headed over to my friends house for Mah Jong Monday. I was told to bring my set. I love my set! It plays well and is comfortable to use. I even one a hand!

Tomorrow Adrianne and I plan on going to my favorite yarn store, walking up and down Hawthorne, and out do dinner with some of our friends (Kev opens tomorrow so he'll be joining us for dinner...yea!).

Well, off to surf the web a bit before turning in. Just wanted to share with Mom that we did in fact do what we said we'd do! :)

goodbye

written yesterday...


How do you say goodbye to a feline? Do they really understand? We have to say our last goodbyes to Vladimir tonight. It brings me much sadness. He was the first cat I’ve met that reminded me soooo much of my beloved Bob. He went missing a little while ago, Vlad did, and we feared the worst. Luckily he was not lost forever. However, it is a bittersweet ending because cancer has taken over his once robust body.

It’s hitting me slowly that tonight is my final farewell. Tears well up in my eyes and I’m sure if I had to speak my voice would waver. I am still at work so I try to pull myself together, in case customers come in during these last 45 minutes.

I will thank Vlad for being my special little (ahem) guy whom let me snuggle, kiss, and love all over him whenever I felt the urge. I will tell him it was an honor just knowing him and being chosen (he would sit on me every so often). I will tell him I will remember him always. But will be sad that all I get to hold anymore are simple memories, and not him.

I am thankful that I got the time I did get with him, but feel it was too little. I will thank his human family for allowing me to care for him and his little “brother” while they were away on trips. For in those times, I got to be a little closer to Vladimir. He would meet me at the door and look up at me with his green eyes. Ready for a kiss and some food.

Life is so short for our animal friends. We only get what seems like a minute with them to learn all they were set out to teach us. Vlad taught me that snuggling is good, a purr can go a long way, and to not lose hope (I knew he wasn’t gone for good when he’d gone missing in November).


(I've now said my farewells, cried tears into his long beautiful fur, and thanked him for letting me love him...he will be missed by all who ever met him)

there are times

On Tuesday this week my coworker and I were talking about when I could cover for her (she's working Saturday for me so I can hang with the 'rents). She asked if I could possibly work this Thursday (today) but she also said she knew it was last minute, but she was just tired. She works two jobs, and doesn't normally have one full day off from both at the same time.

I had originally told her that I needed to get ready for the family who are coming to visit. I started thinking about this yesterday and realized that I was being selfish. I can clean in the evenings. I'm not exhausted like she is. I don't have to work two jobs. I get days off where I can do nothing at all if I like.

I called Chas yesterday to tell him I'd be working the floor today at our new store. Of course he answered the phone "Aren't you supposed to be off today?!" And when I told him of my plan he said no problem.

When I called my coworker yesterday to tell her she was absolutely surprised. She was so happy. I could feel the weight lift off her shoulders.

hard

It is a beautiful day outside. I am inside, sadly. I've created another ad for yet another publication and I have at least two more to do...soon.

I missed Mah Jong Monday at my friends house last night. Ah well. Our set arrived yesterday so we'll soon be able to host our own Mah Jong nights. It's much fun.

It's hard to concentrate with the sun in the sky. I hear the approach of my coworker...I must get back to work.

no dolls hurt, all releases signed

eleven to seven

The eight hours I work. The only thing I'm not a huge fan of regarding my job. It seems as though time starts to stand still around two. And I still have five hours to go after that. I don't have internet connection there (yet) so I can't really work on the site (which I did for many hours last night only to realize I didn't have prices of a few of the things I am adding...). But even if there was internet there, I wouldn't work on the site. I have a hard time breaking from whatever creative thing I am doing to interact with customers. I find it difficult to stop what I am doing, focus on something else, then going back to the computer. It's how I would work on the site before (when I was working full time on the floor). I didn't like it then and I don't like it now.

Since I worked late last night at home I decided to take next Saturday off (well, happy coincident there really). Mom and Dad are coming through town and then my sister, Adrianne will also be coming. I'm pretty excited about family coming to visit. I can hardly wait!!!

Okay, must figure out what else I can do around here to burn some time before heading in...

and the winner is:

I had such a good time working on this ad. Like I said over there, I normally come up with one real solid (make it to print) idea, but this time I had two. So I asked those around me here in person as well as those of you who read my words to take a look and give me feedback. I appreciate it quite a bit. It helps me grow as a designer.

I told Kev tonight that there was something more to this months ad. Not that I don't love designing each and every single ad for Clogs-N-More, but there ws something. It could have been the photo shoot with the ugly dolls, the size being bigger, or the inclusion of another business, I suppose.

Speaking of the photo shoot, Oh My Word. What a riot. All I needed was some electronica and perhaps a little dry ice...well, you'll see what I mean (I got the dolls to sign releases, so I can share here).

Off to create. Thanks again.

not let down

So we met with Alia today. She wass everything Jill and Mark told us she would be. There wasn't even a ton of stuff she added to the list. Just things like increasing the wattage of our bulbs once we start showing, remove the microwave from the kitchen, hiding the coffee maker and toaster, etc. The one thing that was "major" was we have to paint the laundry space after we clean it up. Jill and I were thinking of doing something like that anyway so...

I can hardly wait to tell Jill and Mark how much we love Alia!

So in the next few months we will be listing the house and finding our new home. It all seems a bit unreal for me.

anticipation

There is a quote about anticipation, but it escapes me right now. I think it's from the Simpsons, the quote I am thinking...possibly from the episode where Marge almost has an affair with Jacques, whom she met bowling. It's a long story really.

Anyway, I am excited about tomorrow and meeting Alia. Kev got the lawn mowed tonight after work and I started trimming the hedges. We've got quite a bit to do to clean up outside, but it's going to start raining again and I figure it's better to work on projects as weather allows. Don't ask me about the eaves.

We'll get up early-ish tomorrow and do a thorough cleaning (which I did just a couple of days ago, but I'm anxious and worried what she'll say about the house). Meet with her at 1:00. Then go hang with Chuck before basketball tomorrow night.

Did I mention that Alia sent us a card saying she is excited about meeting us face to face?! I thought it was the sweetest thing.

So go check out the clog blog and give me your vote...(shameless, ain't i?)

got a list, gotta stick to my list

Cave:
Remove ottoman (replace coffee table in living room)
*Remove cd towers
*Remove dog bed
*Remove tv trays
Remove clutter (under flower box/table, top of desk, etc)
Control wires behind tv stand and desk

Closet off Cave:
*Remove boxes
*Remove filing cabinet
Organize coats
Organize home improvement items (paint, etc)
Organize space in general

Laundry closet:
*Remove wooden crates
Organize and clean wire shelving unit

Living room:
*Remove most of books on bookcase
*Remove coffee table (replace with ottoman from Cave)
Remove shoe pile by door
Remove much of the knick knacks on tables, etc.
*Remove kitchen table (replace with sewing desk)
*Remove white and chrome chair

Hall cabinet (small):
Reorganize medicines
Remove cookbooks

Bathroom:
Clean and paint wainscoting
Clean floor
Clean grout (re-grout if necessary)
Clean off back of toilet

Kitchen:
Remove items under microwave (in cabinet and on wine rack)
Clear many knick knacks off exposed shelves
Remove pictures off refrigerator
Clear off top of refrigerator
Clean refrigerator



Sewing room/dressing room:
Turn into dressing room?
*Remove small dresser from closet
Place carpet from “The Kochenour Boutique”
*Remove most of the items in the closet
Remove sewing desk (move to living room)
*Remove sewing machines, etc (store in Jill’s sewing space)

Hall closet (larger):
*Remove extra pillows
*Remove extraneous blankets, sheets and towels
Refold everything neatly

Bedroom:
Reposition chest of drawers
Reposition bed and night stand
Remove dresser (move to dressing room)
*Remove small table from closet
Organize closet (matching, white hangers)

Front yard:
Clean up driveway
Pick weeds
Seed
Plant pretty flowers in boxes and pots
Keep mown
Trim hedges

Back yard:
Clean up mine field (dog doo)
Pick weeds
Seed
*Remove fire pit
*Remove table and chairs (?)
Clean and organize shed
Trim hedges

General:
paint eaves
plant pretty flowers

*store at Jill and Mark’s

make mine a double

I've been starting to really think about exactly what all we are going to have to do to our house to get it ready to sell. I even have gone so far as to make a long, two page list of things. Mentally, room by room, I looked and made notes of what things were glaringly obvious and others that might not seem as "important."

I have already begun boxing a few things up from the kitchen, taking over half the books off the bookcase in the living room, and am contemplating a clearing off of many photos that we have on tables here and there. The fridge must be cleared off. It's a shrine to friends, family, animals, with pictures covering the whole thing. The top of the fridge needs to be cleared off as well. Every horizontal surface really needs to be swept clean. I now have images of myself sweeping my arms across the desk, wiping everything off and onto the floor. While that would be kind of fun to do, it is just really making more work for myself so I think I'll stick to the method of box for trash, box for packing, box for recycling.

I can't wait to meet with Alia, our realtor, on Wednesday. I think she will laugh at the list, as I am planning on sharing it with her. I will ask her if she's ever gotten a list of things her clients know they need to do, room by room.

I need to get another cup off coffee. How I wish there was milk in the house so I could have my double latte. Instead, black french press. It could be worse, I could be out of coffee.

doing well

-I have been good. I've not obsessively looked at/for houses all day long or even once again since that first foray into the world of rmls.com after we got back from our meeting with Debbie. I know, it's only been one day, but I still think that I've been good.

-I have a mini knit night tonight with my friend Jenn. Our pal Amy was hopefully going to join us but she's going on a blind date. Here's to hoping we don't hear from her saying it was horrible.

-The temp is supposed to get up to 70 today. Bring out the new green skirt and flip flops! Okay, maybe not the flips, but the skirt is a go!

-My boss is quite possibly the kindest person alive. I was at TJ Maxx getting some things for the new store (baskets for trash, a nice vase) and I found a great bag. Now those who know me know I'm somewhat of a bag whore. I am always on the lookout for "the perfect bag" for any occasion. This bag will be my Vegas bag! It is big enough to hold my laptop, a small dog, a sweater, my date book, etc. Yet it doesn't look the size. It's a Mary Poppins bag! Anyway, back to the boss thing...I get into the office and start telling him of my amazing find and how it's going to be great for Vegas and all those catalogs I will inevitably be picking up and he says, "How much was it?" I tell him $25. He pulls out cash, plops it on his desk and says, "Give me the receipt. Since you are using it for work and especially Vegas...you deserve to be treated every once in a while." HUH? I stuttered and thanked him and told him he really didn't have to do it...etc.

-My parents will be here in about two weeks. They're only here for a couple days before heading to Canada, then they are back in a couple weeks for a couple more days. My sister from Phoenix will also be here for a few days in a couple of weeks as well (their days somewhat overlap a bit). I'm jazzed!

-Kev's first two games of basketball were so much fun to watch! He did great, aside from the possibility he may lose a toenail (not the first time for that to ever happen). He had a blast though, but is a bit sore. Next Wednesday myself and another wife will be bringing bottles of water, orange slices... we're such good moms!

So there you have it, we're doing well.

houston, we have progress

Kev and I met with our mortgage broker this morning. She is such an amazing person!!! If anyone in Oregon (not sure if she can do things for people outside of Oregon) is looking for someone to work with, I suggest Debbie Patton!!! The broker, not the body builder. :)

Now on our list of things to do is find and meet with a financial adviser as well as make an appointment with our realtor to figure out how much we should list the house for. I've sent Alia (realtor) an email and am just waiting to hear back from her. (Update: before I even hit publish, Alia sent an email back and we're meeting with her next week, Wednesday!!!) As for the financial adviser, I'm still looking. We thought that we'd found a company to work with (long story of how) but they are in Bend, Oregon (a bit further away than we'd like).

So the internet is waiting for me to explore. We came up with a good plan for "if the house sells for X much then we can us Y amount and pay off all debt and have Z amount plus A as a 20% down payment." And it seems feasible! I'm a bit surprised by how much Debbie says we should be able to afford, assuming it sells for around what Kev (conservatively) guessed. He thinks it could/will sell for even more than the number we used. That could be a good thing.

Of course I've already started looking online at homes. Yeah, we say the next 3-6 months we'll be listing...any bets that it'll be sooner?

Here are four I've found that seem interesting... (I hope the link works)

Link didn't work for me so here are the four numbers: 7029241, 7036825, 7034139, 7037089. You can visit this site and plug them all in.

In other news, Kev has his first basketball game tonight. He is excited, but nervous. I'm going to go along to watch and cheer. I am hoping at least one of the other wives I know will be there too.

Okay, off to drink some java and start some laundry.

pull my finger

You Are a Pinky

You are fiercely independent, and possibly downright weird. A great communicator, you can get along with almost anyone. You are kind and sympathetic. You support all your friends - and love them for who they are. You get along well with: The Ring Finger Stay away from: The Thumb

What Finger Are You?

letting the eyes down?

You read posts at other blogs saying what terrible bloggers they are...haven't posted in a long time...promise not to do it again...or at least try.

Yeah, here's the thing. I try not to let guilt set in because then, I don't want to write. Writing when one feels guilty because x, y, and z doesn't seem to make for interesting writing (shush now, this is NOT a guilt written post it's about to become the most enthralling post ever...yeah, right).

We had two glorious days of sunshine in the Pac NW and it looks like we are heading back into a bit of rain this weekend. (heh? enthralling weather) I am only hoping it does not result in a slow day at the store. Saturdays are the only days I work directly with the customers. Thankfully it's at our new location and I like new.

Went out with Jill and Mark for drinks and BBQ last night. Man, Clay's is the best BBQ in town! Their ribs...the meat falls off the bones. I even had enough left to make lunch for today (yeah, food is always a great topic, too).

We're coming up on our 7th anniversary on May 6. Any ideas? The traditional gift is: well blow me away...WOOL (or copper, but who really cares about that?). The modern gift is a desk set but we don't care about desk sets when WOOL (!) is an option. Someone, please someone, tell Kevin that a great gift for me would be a gift certificate to Close Knit! I've linked to it so you can also tell him exactly where it is. Tell him the wool I buy will be for his anniversary gift (a new winter hat since I usurped his...he wasn't wearing it, it was "too thin."). If someone here loves me, and knows how to get ahold of Kev...

The clog blog has been lacking lately. It'd be easier to write about the store if I could post it while there. The energy there is great and creative and I come up with things, but then the brain shuts down when I am home. I suppose I could use Word to write it and then print it out to bring home and punch in. It'd be better if we had internet there though. Everything is better with internet.

(aside: not only does blogger not understand the word blogger in their spell check program, but also internet ain't there either)

And so there you have it, the non guilt written post. It had its ups and its downs. Its moments of boring and the excitement of WOOL! What more could you ask for?

our baby's baby

Three summers ago my parents, Kevin and myself planted "the littlest tree" in our front yard. We bought it under the guise it was a dogwood. I've been waiting since that first year for it to bloom (okay, I guess that makes me the most impatient person in the world because I knew it would not bloom that first summer-it was too late in the season). I'd hoped it would bloom in the second year, but figured when it didn't and its sisters all did, it needed time to become established. So this third year I felt positive it would bloom. It'd be all awash of white flowers.



Almost...

Two, there were two little white flowers on our beautiful little tree. I noticed when I got home from yoga last night and remembered this morning I wanted to take photographs of them. They are the most perfect and beautiful little flowers I've ever seen.

When I see them I get jolts of "this tree won't be mine when we end up selling this house in the next year..." and that makes me kind of sad. Our first little tree has its first little flowers. Our baby is growing up...

question

Say you are playing Scrabble with your loved one...

Say that loved one puts his tiles down and gives you the total of the word.

Then say that loved one says, "OH WAIT!" and insists that he had meant to put down all seven tiles, resulting in an extra 50 points.

Suppose you felt, in your gut, that he was not telling the truth about meaning to play that word AND you believed that once the score was given and tallied, it was your turn.

And then, when the game was officially over with that same loved one playing out all his tiles and winning he says, "I saw it at the last minute..." in regards to the seven tile word (which was played as his third word.)

I'd say the 50 points should be subtracted from that loved ones score and given to the other player. What you think? Oh, and a stringing up and a flogging with a wet noodle.


Kev is adding that his side of the story should read: that since I love him I should let him have the points.

gui-tarrrrs

So this afternoon I called our pal, let's call him Chuck, and left a voice mail about coming over for dinner. Chuck is getting ready to head back home to his parents house for an undetermined amount of time. From what I understand he feels the need to be home for a little while.

I will miss him, but Kevin will miss him more. And here is why:

This is the boys playing Guitar Hero on PlayStation 2. After they played, I got in on the act and hit the bass. It was a riot. I have already informed Kev that we would be playing this after Chuck took off as well.

He will be coming back here, hopefully, in a couple of years. We will always have dinner on the table for him, whenever he gets back our way.

I will miss Chuck.

is love enough?

I have a friend who has just announced that she and her husband of many years are getting a divorce. I will not use their names but it is nobody any of you have met (for my family who reads this) nor is it anyone I have 'met' online.

This friend sent out an email letting us know. She sent it to me a few days after April 1 so I wrote back saying "wasn't april fools day a couple of days ago?" She responded that it was not a joke. I felt a bit betrayed, to tell you the truth, because each time we'd hang out with the two of them everything was fun, light and there was ZERO sign of any turmoil.

We ran into her last night and while Kev was wandering around she and I spoke a little about it all. She said that love wasn't enough.

This confuses me a bit. I mean, I always though love was the basis for marriages and that sometimes the two parties might disagree about things, pick on each other, and what not...but love would still be there. I suppose communication is also key in a healthy relationship and the two people need to be able to communicate with one another, but if you truly love someone, aren't you supposed to want to work things out? Get the help you need to make it work?

Is love enough? Personally, I think it's a good start.

sweetness abound

Seriously, does it get any sweeter than this?

It's a cold and rainy Thursday in Portland. We both have off work. Kev's getting ready to go shoot some hoops with one of the guys who works for him. I'm steadily pressing on through the laundry. Josie is confused and is not sure what is going on and if she gets to go with him. She is hopeful. I hate to break it to her. Had it been not so cold out and not all that rainy I would have joined the guys, taking Josie with to jog around the large park. As it is, I am still sore from yoga on Tuesday night and the laundry was starting to take over the bedroom. If I want to have anything to wear tomorrow, must stay home and wash clothes.

Thankfully, the smell is gone in the laundry room/closet. Thank goddess!

The photo was taken the other night. They are just the funniest duo.

snood

On Easter Sunday I decided I would take knitting with me along to our friends home. I tend to do things like that, take knitting with me where ever I go. These friends are always intrigued by what I am working on. I didn't have a particular project so I decided to look in my notebook of patterns. Now, that notebook is big, but there are only a few patterns in it. One was for an "Urban Cowl" that the kids at Knit/Purl designed and were giving away for free (now they charge for any of their patterns). I figured it would look pretty with my leftover sweater yarn (yeah of the 9 balls I bought, I used 7 in the end) and grabbed needles close to the size the pattern called for, throwing a ball of yarn into my current knitting bag (still on the lookout for the 'perfect' knitting bag). I am making quite a bit of progress (sorry no pics) and it dawned on me, I'm making a snood. Mine won't be worn quite like that, but...it's still a snood.

I am really making it with the thought of wearing it around my neck, like a cowl/turtle with no sweater attached. You know, a scarf without the long ends to get caught in things. What kind of things? Well, zippers of coats, buttons, under your purse straps. I know you guys all understand how annoying the purse strap thing is.

addiction

Sometimes that word is bad. I mean, sometimes people get addicted to things that are harmful to them, their bodies, and all others around them. Fortunately google analytics isn't harmful for anyone. Thanks to Monika I was drawn in. She simply mentioned checking it out to see her stats(her blog just turned a year old). I instantly wanted to see what she was talking about. Now, I check in every morning, noon, and night to see where people are reading from. I also check clog blog's status. I'm pretty impressed that people are going there. Thanks!

Yesterday was a quiet day for me. I got up, mowed the lawn (and am thankful I did because it started raining yesterday afternoon and still hasn't stopped), went to our friends house for amazing food and great company. I even took some knitting! I was left so depleted after finishing the sweater I really didn't know what to do. So, I decided to use some of the left over sweater yarn to make a cowl. Not a sweater, just the neck. Kind of a scarf that doesn't hang down, if you will.

Today is a day full of a doctors appointment (nothing bad), figuring out what is on order for the kids store (and what to cancel), and sending in the new design for our business cards. I'm sure there will be more lumped on me, but I'm not going to think about that. So, that's it...for today.

nothing like the smell of death

...in the morning.

We occasionally have a mouse in our house (I know many now are saying "If you have one you have hundreds"). Anyway, a couple of times we've come home to our huntress (aka Chloe) playing with her catch (thankfully death has always overcome the mouse...and I always thank the mouse for giving its life while entertaining my cat). Twice we've found them simply dead of natural causes in our laundry closet. One we knew because of the stench (did I mention this post is not for the faint of heart?). The other we had no clue because it was winter and cold in there and without the heat of summer...you get the picture.

So this morning, it's back. Someone has died in our house. I'm pretty sure natural causes because Chloe would have brought us her prize had she had anything to do with it. I just don't want to be the one to find the corpse.

an idea

Over the years I've read various blogs about not writing anything about your work place. While I agree it's a good idea to not bitch and moan about ones place of employment, I can't agree that you shouldn't write about it at all.

Last week Wednesday was a rough day for my family (trust me, I bring this story back around to work). We lost Grandma to a long battle with dementia. We all flew/drove into Pennsylvania to say our goodbyes. Right as I received the IM from my dad that Wednesday morning I had had the idea of starting a new blog. But this one would be different. It wouldn't be my personal space about whatever, rather it would be about the store. I could write about new styles coming in, any sales going on, other events that will happen in the future...

Let me introduce you all to... Clog Blog. Be kind.

home

The trip home yesterday was uneventful. I enjoy flights that are uneventful. :) I did have an interesting conversation with one of the flight attendants...we are pretty sure I sold her her clogs. She looked familiar to me and I to her.

I slept like a rock again last night. I don't think I moved until this morning when Simon started walking on my head. It's rare for me to not toss and turn so a night of blissful sleep was great.

Upon getting home this evening from dinner I received a great voice mail surprise. My sister, Adrianne, is coming to see me!!! She got a free ticket on Southwest and since she's not been up here (and her sons both say it's okay for her to come see me instead of using it to see them in Cali) she's coming!

I think I am going to turn in soon. I am going to go into work tomorrow for a while so I should get some sleep.

sitting

My sister and I made it to California safely. I am now sitting next to Oscar (my favorite boy dog on the face of the planet) and am relaxing after a long flight. Her husband picked us up at the airport and drove us straight to sushi! Dinner was great.

I fly home tomorrow evening. Thankfully I got a call from one of the employees today saying she'd cover for me at the store downtown on Tuesday if I wanted. I am thinking of taking her up on the offer and will probably go into the new location to work on display things I want to install Thursday when I am working downtown with our new guy.

I can hardly think straight at this moment. Oscar is making me smile. I hope he sleeps with me tonight!! Please...please Ox.

sleep eludes me

My sister and I got in last night after a long, long day of travel. We both left the West Coast around 9:00 am PST and got here close to 6:00 pm EST. When we got in we were welcomed by an exuberant, gigantic dog, Fennwick. He's since calmed, which makes us happy. It's funny what a game of fetch/chase followed by a walk on a short leash will do. He's funny.

We all met with the Pastor this morning. I liked her instantly. It seems as though she has a good idea as to what will bring us the most comfort. It's been helpful, sharing stories of our memories.

We will go by the funeral home this afternoon and okay everything, making sure she looks nice. I did find out she will be wearing the purple dress she wore to my wedding. This actually brings me some comfort as well. The funny thing is, I learned she'd be wearing purple after I'd picked out my outfit...black pants with a purple shantung silk wrap top. I will also be wearing purple shoes. I think it would make her smile.

I did get a bit of a nap in today, but I need more sleep. Tonight Julianne and I will go to our other cousins house and relax with his family as well.

Now Mom, Dad and my cousin Gail are at the attorney's office finishing up some paperwork regarding the will. Julianne and I stayed home and are working on some online bar listings for which she is writing reviews. I'm doing research for her while she does some as well.

And my sinuses are hating PA. I have picked up some Zicam and now the running of the nose has commenced. Yeah, I'm a joy to be around right now.

I'll be heading to LA on Sunday with Julianne and then home on Monday from there. You would not believe the trouble I had trying to find a flight home. With Spring Break coming to an end, students are trying to milk their time for everything they can. That means no flights home for me on Sunday. I get to spend the evening with Julianne, David and my favorite boy dog, Oscar and then a full day with the Ox (Oscar) while they go to work. I head home Monday evening. Not sure if I will update more on this trip, but I suppose only time will tell.

Thank you to those of you who have sent me emails or comments. Friends make this a bit easier. So does the knowledge that Grandma is no longer worrying where Pappy is and if he's with that slut Esther. :)

Side note: when I titled the first post about her death "rest" I'd forgotten that when my cousins were growing up next door to her and being needed to help out with the chores, they would talk about wanting to rest. She would always say, "You can rest when you're dead."

rest

I just got word that my Grandma finally passed away. She'd been battling dementia for so many years that I can honestly say there is a sense of relief as well as immense sadness. She was a woman who had a hard life. She worked on the farm with my Grandfather, taking care of their two daughters (who as they got older worked on the farm as well), and making sure the household ran smoothly. Her home was always immaculate.

Many years ago (I think three now) we got a call from the hospital in PA that we needed to get out there because the doctors did not expect her to make it through that weekend. Um, yeah, they didn't know my Grandma. She was still kicking it, but just not as high.

It's an odd feeling, knowing she's finally at peace. For the last years she'd forgotten who we were and wondered where Pappy was. He'd not been by to visit. Grandpa passed away 22 years ago. She couldn't remember and when we tried to tell her she relived losing him all over again. It has been hard, reading the words from my cousin (who lives close to where Grandma lived) as well as reports from my mom. She'd have her good days and her bad. Today her body finally decided she needed the rest and let her go.

I love you Grandma, more than you might have ever known.

we even made two sales

Yesterday was quite a day. We didn't get the store open until about 11:30. Since we didn't have hours posted yet though, we didn't feel bad. Now we have our hours posted and will be trying to figure out exactly what they will end up being. I'm thinking 10-6 M-Sat and 11-5 Sun, but my boss thinks 11-7 during the week is better. He's not been around that late though and has no idea that the people who are out walking around are heading out for food and drink, not clogs.



Most people who popped in yesterday were ecstatic by us being there. Welcoming us to the neighborhood. Making us feel good. Our first pair of clogs were sold to a friend of Barbara Roberts. She was once the Governor of Oregon. Not too bad. :) She was just as excited as we were about being the first sale.



One of my downtown regulars lives in the area and she popped in as well. We had a laugh and chatted a bit. She commented on the windows and how fitting they were for the area. It used to be known for the amount of antique stores. Since then more businesses have come in and the number of antique shops have started to dwindle. Not a bad thing, but it's change. Sometimes people don't like change. But Stephanie thought people would appreciate that we really thought about where we were and know we really want to be there. I swelled with pride. The photo isn't the best, but of the four I took, this one gives you the idea. I've got a total of ten old windows strung up and each are framing one or two shoes or clogs. This was a labor of love. It kept me up at night worrying it wouldn't work. The day those windows got hung up, I almost cried. Ahmed looked at me and shook his head saying, "This is playing for you, isn't it? You're like a little kid right now. Playing and having fun." I'm glad he realizes though that what is playing for me, draws customers in. Next week, I tackle the windows downtown. I got an ad done for Friday this morning (so much for a day off) that I'd planned on doing Friday morning. So now I get to go into the new shop and create. I will be making paper flowers and gluing them to beautiful ribbon. I'll hang the word "SPRING" from the same ribbon. It's going to be pretty.

Okay, I'm going to go waky waky Mr. C and get this day off really started!!!

tomorrow tomorrow

~I don't really love tomorrow as it is the first day our new store will officially be open for business. There are still plenty of things I have to get in and do early in the am before customers start coming in. Also, I have artsy window displays to complete for one of the other stores.

~The rains have returned. No biggie. We're used to the tease of spring and then being hit again.

~Josie has got to be part cat. She plays with cat toys but will shun her own. I don't know.

~I just ate cheese that smells like...you don't want to know. The good thing is it doesn't taste as it smells. It's creamy and luscious.

~Kev should be home soon so we can go grab dinner and hopefully run out to Target. We still haven't used a gift card we got for Xmas. We need hangers. Granted we don't need $50 worth of hangers, but we could easily spend that money!!!

~Hiking will hopefully commence this Wednesday. Last week we had originally planned to go, but then Kev had the trip that reared its head and I ended up working while he was gone. So this week, this is the week it starts! Rain or shine.

~I am tired. No, make that exhausted. I could close my eyes, lay my head down, and fall asleep right this very minute. Although if I did that I'd end up with some weird imprint on my face from my sleeves or something (Kev tells me I'm very "denty"). I don't fancy going do dinner with crease marks on my face.

~I took a boat load of photos today for a client/friend. I'm getting a jewelry catalog together so she has images of items she's made. I will do the same with her visual art soon.

~I will post as more comes to mind. Right now, a 10 minute cat nap sounds perfect.

a sad sad day indeed

Well, our beloved Jayhawks have let us down once more. They failed to show up to play a game. I don't think I've watched a more badly played game. Ah well, one more year to add to the pile of "not this one."

Kev and our friend Kiley watched the game together. I listened to the first half while at work with one of the newbies, pricing all the shoes at the new store. Jesse came up with the idea of listening to it while we worked. We got out of there at halftime. His cheers of "Go Kansas!" made me smile as I called back, "ROCK CHALK BABY!"

I was disappointed that Kiley was cheering for UCLA. I think more out of just wanting to make the atmosphere more sporting. It felt forced though. Like he really didn't care one way or the other who won the game.

I slipped back to bed at 8:30. I was tired. It's been a long few weeks getting the store ready and it's almost there. Grand opening is next weekend. We've got almost everything taken care of, but there are a few things that when I wake at 1:30 stick on my mind and make it hard to go back to sleep. Then I realize that the pressure in my bladder is really what is causing me to stay awake and once I relieve it, I am sleeping once more. No thoughts of making lists, finishing projects, cleaning the space...

It's back to life as I know it. And that is okay. I live a good life. I am surrounded by friends who have become like family and family who have become amazing friends. I have three furry kids who mean the world to me, even though all three are snuggled up in my side of the bed while I am up early after feeding them. I have a job that makes me happy and gives me the chance to be creative again. As much as I would love a little someone to share this life with, I am happy I get to live it at all. So thank you to friends and family who have either commented or emailed me. Support is an amazing thing. Even from many miles away!!! I loves yous guys!

on being me

I struggle with wanting to write about a certain topic. It's a deeply personal one to me, but I don't know how much I am willing to write knowing there really are people reading these words. From what friends have said, writing things they are having to deal with that are hard or personal in a blog is often cathartic for them and helps them through the tough times.

So here I will try...

All my life I've wanted to be a mom. I've wanted to feel the joys and sickness and swollen ankles and everything that goes along with being pregnant. It's something that both Kev and I want in our lives, a little being that is part of us. We've been married now for almost 7 years. We've discussed having kids for many of those years and even began the trying about 5 1/2 years ago. We've had tests and we've just not been able to conceive. Now, I know that speaking of "trying" is almost akin to speaking of us and our sex life, but for family and friends who ask "how's it going?" that question is like you asking how much sex we are having...

Yeah, enough of that talk. A few months ago I was sure I was finally pregnant. I was nauseated. I was exhausted. I craved certain foods. Breasts felt more tender than ever before. And then, one Saturday, I was working downtown. The next day was to be the day I would take the test because I'd officially be late. My boss was in the store so I ran next door to use the restroom (yes, we have no bathroom in the store downtown and trust me, it's okay!). I came back heartsick. Tears streaming down my face. How was I going to face the rest of my day? I was not pregnant.

I've had the hardest time figuring out my body and its cycle. I did the basal body temp test, taking my temp every morning prior to setting foot on the ground for three months. What that showed us was I have a crazy temp that is all over the place and dips and rises all willy nilly. I've paid attention to ...

*anyone not wanting to read about bodily fluid, stop reading now*









...mucus. It didn't seem to be any different all month long. No egg white consistency at a different time other than always. Finally a few months ago (prior to the last hopes raised time) I noticed that it would start out thick, get egg white like and then go back to slightly thicker before going away during and right after my period. So I watched and paid attention and really made every attempt to do the things necessary to conceive during those times (yes, that includes Kev).

But to no avail. My body is simply not accepting what should be natural to it.

I see these young teen girls having children and it's hard for me to not become depressed. I know that family members hope we decide to adopt. I can't say we will, I can't say we won't. I know that certain things are not for us, like fertility drugs or invetro. We are of the same belief that if we can't get pregnant without human interaction (other than the interaction necessary to naturally conceive) then maybe we were not supposed to get pregnant.

Right now I want to curl up in a ball and not think about anything.

not quite

My plans and hopes last night for knit night was to get the sweater all seamed up in time to wear it to the airport to get Kev. It didn't quite happen that way. I got up to the last side and sleeve and time ran out. I was on time to get Kev though and that is what matters!


However, since I am taking it slow this morning (I am heading into work at some point, but not crazy early like the past two mornings). I actually slept last night too! You see, I got probably a total of 8 hours of sleep over the three nights I was here alone. I don't sleep well when he's gone.

Anyway, I digress...


I am smitten with this sweater. The seams are a bit goofy around the shoulders, but I am thinking when I block it again it will flatten out more.


It is the softest thing! I knew it would be. The funny thing, today is going to be the warmest day this week. Tomorrow it is supposed to be a bit cooler with rain, so I guess I'll save it until tomorrow.



Chloe is already making moves to sit on me (I snapped a picture, but it cut most of her off...she sat for a minute and then couldn't get comfortable with the darn computer in her way so she bolted). I have a feeling that THIS is the sweater that makes her a snuggly kitty!!

Before I had even finished writing that sentence, she was back. LOL

not as fun

Well, I just watched KU make it into the next round, barely. However, Kev's in the airport in AZ on his way home (he got to watch it while waiting to board) and the animals, they get freaked out by Mama's screaming at the television. My hands itch from clapping. My adrenaline is now coursing through my veins. And, I have knit night tonight!

It should be interesting how tight whatever I end up working on gets. Don't get me wrong, I'm jazzed about the advancing. However, it was way too close a game for my comfort!!! I dislike these types of close games. I like the back and forth, but when it comes to the last few minutes I like my team to have a bigger advantage.

I am hoping to get to watch the next few games with Kev (see how positive I am that KU is going all! the! way!). He's had to work or was on his way home the first three. We'll see.

I will tell you this though, it's not as fun for me to watch games without Kev and others.

oh baby i'm so tired

Kev got off okay last night. I went over to my friend Amanda's house after and ate Indian food. Now, up until this point I had felt as though I didn't care for Indian food. I suppose it is curry that I'm not a fan of. What we ate last night was yum-my! I couldn't tell you exactly the names but there were chickpeas in some kind of sauce. Lentils (my fave). A spinach and cheese concoction. And the nan (sp) which is a flat bread. One was plain the other with crazy garlic. All served with rice.

Anyway, it was a wonderful night with her and her roommate. We laughed a lot. I am glad they allowed their cranky days to melt away.

Sadly I did not sleep well. I think I just don't like sleeping when he's not home. Josie started barking at some point.

Now I'm sitting still. A novelty these days. My mind isn't still though, which is annoying I must admit. It seems as though the schedules for all the stores are nagging me. Charles and I are trying to get everything set up for just the next couple of weeks. Then we can focus on the "set" schedule. We'll see how it goes tomorrow. I am going to go find something to knit on to give me a break from thinking...

oops

The funny part is there isn't anything exciting that kept me from posting this past, almost, week. Just work. Watching KU basketball when I can. Work some more. Shop a smidge. Did I mention work?

The new location we are opening is going to be fab! Window displays are almost done, just waiting for shoes to arrive so I can pick which styles are going to go on the pedestals. Most of our shoes should be here this week!!! Once we get everything loaded in, checked in, and put away, we can start loading the shoe racks with clogs. The way our stores are set up is pretty neat. The walls have these giant racks. They hold the clogs so they face you. If you want to try something on, simply find it in your size section and try it! Very cool indeed.

On the sweater front, it is all knitted up. I simply am waiting for the sleeves to dry (they are being blocked right now) and then I can seam it up. Perfect timing for this amazing weather we have been having lately! Ugh. I may be the only Portlander hoping it gets a wee bit chilly again in the future. :) Knit night is Thursday and I'm now at a loss as what to bring. Perhaps I'll take the sweater to seam up, but also take some dish clothes I started last night. I've been meaning to get some made for our dear friends for quite some time. I've had the perfect shade of purple for a while now! I love that their kitchen is purple!!

Kev's getting ready to go hang with his Dad and step Mom this week. I'll have the house to myself (which means it will stay relatively neat and clean). I'll miss him, and wish I could have gone, but I know he'll have a grand time with them. I'm hoping later this summer we can go to Texas or something...

Okay, going to go finish getting ready for work. I know, boring post, but then again...so is my life. :) Sometimes, it's okay to be bored.

better than sleeping pills

On Sunday we headed out to our friends house to get some squishin' in on their baby, Henry. Oh, we also watched KU basketball. Henry was a bit fussier than we've ever seen him, but it didn't make me want to squish any less. His Mom is always ready for me to hold him and as soon as I walk in there normally is a baby thrust into my arms.

After the game was over (with KU winning in overtime) we all sat around and chatted. I had finally gotten Henry to sleep (it seems as though standing in the bathroom with the fan blowing is key at times) and decided to sit down. He is a warm little baby. Warm and heavy. Those two things in combination normally mean sleepy time for me. Usually it's a cat that is doing the warm and heavy lounge on me. This time, a sleepy baby who would whimper a bit here and there and make me smile.

So I give you, nap time with Henry...

I am glad that Mom took the picture. It was a sweet moment that I just love.

I seriously can't get enough of this baby!

i'm a gatherer

This morning at 8:00 Josie and I had a follow up appointment with Dr. Amy. I was informed at the first appointment, two weeks ago, that they couldn't get her to go peep and could I bring a specimen in with me. Um yeah, I suppose.

I grabbed a piece of plasticware I don't mind losing and follow her out into the dark, rainy morning. I realize she's already going as I dive under her tooshy. She looks as me as if I'm the most horrible person in the whole world. How DARE I interrupt this private moment!! Lucky for me, she didn't move or stop or get me.

I took her in, she was so excited to get in the car and GO! until we GOT! Then she acted like a giant baby. She wanted to sit in my lap. She lost almost a pound, but at 74 lbs, she still is no lap dog. Dr. Amy was happy with how she's responding to the meds. Her skin is clearing up. She is thinking it is an allergy instead of something internal. If everything clears up until next year at this time, then we'll medicate for the late winter/early spring each year. If it comes back quickly, we'll look into changing her food.

I drove her home, jumped in the shower and was out the door in time to get to work ON TIME! Kev didn't even have to get up to take me in, as we thought he might.

last saturday with ella

Well today is the last Saturday I will work at the store downtown, which is the one I've called mine for 5 and a half years. It's bittersweet for me to not be working downtown, other than covering for people when they are ill. Then again, it's been sad only working here two days a week.

This morning was my last Saturday morning with Ella. Tears came to our eyes when we bid each other farewell. We did swap numbers and are planning on having lunch out sometime. She reached out for my hand and then leaned in for a kiss on my cheek. I told her she'd given me something I'd been missing in my life. She told me she had come to feel of me like a Granddaughter. Tears came quickly.

I am glad I took the time to get to know Ella. She's an amazing woman with wisdom that she is willing to share. And I'm willing to listen.

ready for sunday

This week has been exhausting, to say the least. I've spent the past two mornings at the Deep Hole getting things to construct the window display at our new location. It's really coming together. Today I had a ton of MDF cut to size so I can make pedestals. The guy who cut it all was very sweet. Supposedly they are only allowed to make 7 cuts per customer for free and then charge. Ronnie didn't charge me. :)

I was hoping I was getting to use a real! live! nail gun. You know, with the compressor, etc. Yeah, not happening. I will be using a regular hammer. At least I am getting to make choices when it comes to layout of the new store.

Okay, going to go sit and stare at the television intermittently with the computer.

shame spiral

I hope my dear friend over at Female CS Grad Student does not take offense (who really is a dear friend in real life so I know she won't be upset and if you are, tell me sweets!). Dog knows I've offended before by "responding" to a post someone wrote (someone who at the time I thought of as a friend).

How many of you have things you've done (or not done) in your past that make you want to curl up into the fetal position and rock? I'm sure many of you. I have done it myself. I think to myself, "WHY?" Why do I allow these feelings of embarrassment, regret, of just feeling ick about things that happen so long ago, in my life now?

So I stopped. I could regret things until the day I decide I'm done on this earth, but you know what? It doesn't change the fact that I made the choices that allowed those things to happen. So, instead of living life in the past (not saying my friend does, but there are things she remembers that bring back those feelings of embarrassment/regret/why why why) I decided a while ago to allow myself to be thankful for all those "wrong" things I did oh so long ago (and oh so near ago). Those things, they helped me become the woman I am today.

I happen to like that woman. She's smart, funny, loving. She's got a great sense of self. She's kind to others. She still does stupid things. And that is what I love. She's human. Humans are not perfect. Nobody is.

Take a long look at your life. Your life NOW, as you know it. Are you happy with the person you have become? If so, fantastic! Thank that person you were while you were growing up for helping you along the way. If not, what can you do to change it?

Shame spirals are not 100% great, but they aren't 100% evil either. They are simply another tool, helping us learn how to live.

blah blah and a little more blah

I am nearing the end of the knitting of my very first sweater. Something has taken over me and made me not feel like knitting. I am beginning to think that my subconscious does not want me to finish because I'll never have another first sweater. I suppose I will have a first sweater knit in the round (all non knitters just smile and nod, knowing that is something different than what I am doing now). I still have to seam everything up, which people tell me is a pain.

Or it could simply be now that it's near 60 outside I don't feel like sitting with lovely baby alpaca in my lap? Yeah, doubt that too.

I am going to make myself knit tonight. Actually, the thought of sitting at home and just knitting sounds lovely right about now. I'm covering the store downtown for the woman who normally works Monday. She's not feeling well (I swear I didn't come into contact with anyone while sick!!!).

Okay, this is a thrilling post...bah.

better?

Well, I am feeling almost 100% again. We'll call it 85% at this time.

During this illness I've lost 3 lbs (although not in the healthy diet and exercise way so they are sure to come back and that is fine), I've gotten two rows done on the second sleeve (I'd hoped to use this being sick and not being able to move to my advantage, but the whole not being able to move and sit up thing really got in the way), I've realized fruit punch flavored Gatorade is not my favorite anymore (really I don't think any of them are my favorite, but it used to be the least offensive but since Kev bought the largest bottle of it and it's almost all I've had to drink the past few days...), and I now know that washing my hair and promptly sleeping on it is not good (when hair is longer you can get away with it a bit easier, when short you just look like Don King when you get your ass up finally).

Okay, my sister in law is on the phone and she's in town so we are heading out to eat. Wow! I get to leave the confines of the house! I've not left this place since Wednesday!!!! WOO HOOO!!!

mia

The flu is an evil thing. It takes down the strongest of people, leaving them weak and spent. Nothing other than sleeping can happen. No knitting, no blogging...

randomness

~ I got a call from our vet today just to check on Josie and to tell me about her labs. Wow. I really like our vet quite a bit. I told her she is the reason we keep going back to the office. She and the office staff. She was blushing on the other end of the phone.

~ As the day progresses my stomach has been feeling less and less happy. I keep getting told to drink tea, put on my scarf, take it easy, _________ (fill in the blank). My throat is also feeling a bit nasty, that lovely postnasal drip crap.

~ The thought of sitting and knitting sounds so yummy right now. Although when I get home just sitting might be happening. Sometimes, when I'm not feeling grand, knitting takes too much energy.

~ It has been raining nonstop today. Normally we have a bit of a break here and there, but not today. It's been just ugly out. Of course it is Portland in the winter...so I shouldn't complain.

~ I can hardly believe this is my third post of the day. Funny thing, none have been stellar. All have been boring and random. Which is to say my life is rather boring and random these days?

~ Celery is the best thing on the face of the planet right now. I actually am wanting some right now, but with the lack of a good grocery store downtown and none in my fridge...probably won't be having any today. Ah well.

~ Josie's pills almost cost $80.00 until the pharmacist at Rite Aide told me they would price match if I wanted to take all the time to call around...I did and it cost not even $15.00! Oh yeah, always call around!

~ Time has flown today. I'm nearing the last two hours of my day at work. This brings me joy.

yea!!!

I just got off the phone with my closest girlfriend, Jill (perhaps you have read her name here before?). She's been between jobs for a little while now but today...today when I called to confirm my ideas for Thursday, she told me she couldn't because SHE'D BE AT WORK!!!

I can hardly wait to hear all about her first day, which is tomorrow.

CONGRATS JILL!!!!!

hack hack sniffle

I am NOT getting sick. There, I said it. I may be coughing this morning and having to blow my nose, but I am NOT getting sick. I refuse! It used to be I could convince my body to not get sick simply by saying those words (or at least it seemed like that was what happened since I felt sick, I said those words with conviction, I stopped feeling sick). Lucky for me, I am only on the floor today and Saturday. Although I'd really prefer to not get sick since this week will be filled with much work on window displays and just general running around. I am thinking on Thursday, after yoga, Jill and I will run to the hardware store to get some things I need for the first display at the new store. I want to run her by the shop so she can see what we are working with (I say we and I when talking with her about the displays as well...she's helping, which I appreciate so very much).

So, I can't get sick. I have too much crap to do.

I drank an Emergen-C this morning so I hope that helps...

I am NOT getting sick.

one pooped pup

Josie's appointment went well. She has a skin irritation/allergy and was put on antibiotics. I will get the script filled tomorrow since I didn't have a chance to today. She's been zonked ever since I got home this evening. Curled up on the couch next to me while I...you guessed it...knit.

Second sleeve is underway.

I went to talk with the boys at Documart today with my artist friend. It went well. I can hardly wait to see the business cards, earring cards, and small hang tags printed out. I also talked about Diana's cards too. She gave me the go ahead and we'll be getting them printed, too.

gotta give him credit

Last week we made an appointment to take Josie to the vet. It's her yearly check to talk about the "peep" pills she takes and redo the prescription. It's refills are good for a year. We also want to talk about the mysterious bald spots that are cropping back up on her right side. The last time we had a different vet look at her and he simply put her on Benadryl. No talks of scrapings. He did blood work, but that came back with no information.

Anyway, I made the appointment with Kev so that we both could go. It's at 10:00, so a little less than an hour now. I wake Kev up at 9:10 to let him know it's time to start getting ready. He says to me, after laying there for a while, "Would you be upset if I didn't go?" To which I replied, "Yes, yes I would. I arranged the time with your input so we could both go."

Hey, he tried, right? I'm just glad he didn't just come out with, "I am not going." He's now in the shower getting himself ready to head to see Dr. Horlings. Josie is excited because there is movement in the house and she thinks she's getting to go somewhere fabulous. Yeah, she might be sad in a few...

nearing completion

So I am a sleeve and a half away from being done with all the knitting of my sweater. I swear, this thing has virtually knit itself! I plan on having it done and seamed up by next Saturday so I can wear it to the coffee shop (where the girls informed me yesterday that they would not be at that location on Saturdays anymore at the end of the month). I plan on wearing it a lot (assuming it fits well and I love it as much as I am planning).

We will hopefully be getting together with friends today. These friends are ones who don't care if I knit (although remember the whole "offending" thing a while ago...that friend doesn't remember so I can knit freely in his house again...).

My head hurts. I think I need my second latte.

sitting

I am closing one of our stores today because Suzy needed to go babysit her grand kids. I'd forgotten how quiet this store can be in its last hour of being open. It's not bad, but it's quiet. I had to stay later tonight anyway because it's knit night and I figured it'd be better to go there from here since there is closer to here than home.

I'm steadily working up the front of this sweater and plan on getting a good amount done tonight. I am looking forward to sitting and knitting with my girlfriends. There will be wine and perhaps food. I hope there is food. I really couldn't care about the wine to tell you the truth. I'm not much for it right now.

Kev had off today. It was a good thing since he got home near 4:00 am this morning. Inventory. Sucky, but from what he says the people who conduct the inventory (they hire off site peeps) said it was an easy one since he had gotten the store so organized. I guess the former manager really wasn't all that neat and orderly.

Things with my Grandma are not sounding all that grand. She's in the hospital and really fighting for life. Personally, I think she should allow her body to go. She's had a hard life and with her dementia she's not had a very quality filled life these last few years. I almost feel as though I lost my Grandma a few years ago...It is hard, but it's almost harder watching her go through this last stage.

Okay, on that bright and cheery note...I'm out!

rains have returned

I know it's been quite some time since I posted what some might call a "real" post. I've been going on and on about all this knitting. I'm sure it's enough to make some of our friends roll their eyes (if not poke them out).

Well, there hasn't been a whole lot going on here, other than the knitting. Dog is great. Cats are fabulous. Kev is sleeping. I'm training two new people. Today is the first day on the floor for both of them. It should be interesting. I hope that we get customers in today since it's rather cold and rainy out.

It's hard to get up and be up during the rainy season. Normally I am fine and have no problems with it, but this winter (even though it's been the driest we've had in years) has been different. Right now I could close my eyes and fall back asleep. And before you start saying I get to bed too late, I was back there reading by 9:30 with lights out an hour after.

I remember having an odd dream right before I woke. Kev and I moved into an apartment that had a huge bathroom. It was an older bathroom, but had some crazy shower head that was the predecessor to the nozzles that shoot at the abdomen. But in the dream these would swivel and I'd end up with water up my nose.

I woke to Josie needing to go out, into the rain. Perhaps the rain lead me down the dream path of feeling like I was being drowned.

So you see, other than the knitting, nothing exciting is happening here. Sorry to bore. :)

progress is the most beautiful word

I've been a knitting fool these past few days.
I just can't get enough. This yarn is the most beautiful and soft and lovely.

It's just making itself, this sweater is. This is technically the back, but my arms don't twist quite that way and then taking the photo...you get the idea. Anyway, the front will be exactly the same so in theory this COULD be the front. Since I'm not doing the intarsia Union Jack, it could just be the front if I decide. I will probably make it the back though, since I'm following the pattern.

I can hardly wait until it's done. Today would have been a perfect day to wear it, too. Chilly but not cold. Instead the sleeves were paired with a jacket over my tee shirt.

Okay, enough with this typing, must knit.

oh my doG oh my doG oh my doG

I've started. I let the CO sweater sit for almost three days before picking it up and diving in. I'm still a bit cautious, but I'm thinking this will result in hopefully (knock on wood) the first knitted item I've made with NO mistakes (I mean hand made qualities showing). It's soft. It's amazing. It's liquid. It feels like the most amazing piece of clothing I will ever wear. I will get pet (yeah, cuz that doesn't sound dirty at all). I will LIVE in this sweater.

I made everyone at the coffee shop this morning feel the yarn (well, the regulars I know). One guy, Paul, said he'd have sex with that yarn it felt so good. I promptly yanked the yarn from his grasp. :) I'm totally geeking out about this sweater, I know.

Knitters who read this: What was knitting your first sweater like for you? Were you blissed out? Were you freaked out? Were you as excited as me? Please, tell me you were even if you were not so I feel better about being such a knit nerd.

I am at work today. I have the sweater in my bag. I've just done the second of three reductions for the back. I then knit knit knit until the length reaches 14.5" before the confusion of "setting in" for the sleeves commences. This is where my knitterly friends will come into play. I am unsure of "bind off the first two stitches of the next two rows" means. I mean I know what that means, but in the graph it looks like the first two AND the last two of the row...

We'll cross that bridge when we get to it though.

baaaaahhhhhhhhhh

We got a card from my parents today. It was our valentine. They bought us a sheep. I laughed when I opened the envelope and saw this sheep looking at me. I know it's not THE sheep they bought us, but I am going to pretend it is.

Thank you for our sheep. I think I am going to name her Delia. I just hope she brings the family who gets her as much joy as she does me.

In other news, I am working. I'm working on designs for a local artist's business cards and other tags for her jewelry. I am meeting with Denise on Monday. I have one design done but wanted to have at least two for her to look at to make sure I am going down the path she was thinking. All the while, London is Calling!

My friend (the one who hasn't ever knit a sweater in her life either and who is traveling down this road with me) told me to start if I felt like it. Her life was busy and she wasn't sure when (other than knit night next week) when she'd have time. I cast on, and that is it. I don't know why I didn't continue on and knit the first bit. Nerves? Awe? Compete and utter fear? Yeah, I'm guessing that last one.

Assuming I get anything done for Denise tonight, I may just force myself to start knitting on it. I suppose I could use the excuse of not getting the other two projects (well the two that are for other people) done is what is holding me back, but that would be lying.

day late, dollar short?

So Kev and I have only ever "celebrated" Valentines Day one year and that was the first year we were together. I made what I think is a beautiful piece of art (although calling something I made art gives me the feeling of being a fraud because I do not make a living off of what I create) anywho, I made this beaded thing of beauty and it still hangs on our bedroom wall. After I made that I thought to myself, "well, hell! I just shot my load and will never be able to top that!" It's when I told him that the holiday that is perpetuated by Hallmark didn't really have a place in my world. (I was thinking I'd go snap a photo of it right now, but the camera is at work waiting to capture the photo for my next "sucky" ad).

The words of Stephanie really rang true with me and I could hardly write anything more eloquent or true (of course, she IS a writer who gets PAID for writing).

I will say that last night I got to spend the evening dining with my dear Kevin as well as our wonderful friend, Chuck. We only get a bit more time with Chuck as he's heading out to answer some questions he has. He's heading to his parents home in Michigan to spend time with them as their health is waning. It makes me love him more.

Love is about support and trust and knowing that you believe in the other.

So celebrate how you need and in what way is true for you.

play ball

I know, two knitting posts in a row. But seriously, does it get any cuter than this?

This is Cooper's hat. I met him on Sunday while we were visiting with Henry and his parents. Kev used to work with Coop's Dad, Jason at the mortgage place. Since they don't work together anymore we've not seen them since Coop was born 4 months ago. Well, I got some white yarn at the sale Sunday morning before heading out to Sherwood to visit. Took it with me and started the hat right then. Michelle, Cooper's Mom, was just excited. I had toyed with doing the baseball stitching around his head like it is on a ball, but he's got a huge head anyway so I figured why bring that much more attention to it. I think they will like it. Kev does...

yarn porn

This is for all those knitterly friends of mine.

I found my sweater pattern a while ago when I bought a copy of Stitch-N-Bitch Nation from 2004. It's supposed to be a sweater with the Union Jack across the front (search as I may I can not find an image of the sweater online to share).

While I love the shape of the sweater, I did not exactly want to have a flag all over it. So, I decided to find yarn that I love and just make the sweater without any intarsia'd Union Jack (I love makin' up words).

It's great when your favorite yarn store is having a sale!!

one dog yacking

The time is 1:00 AM and I am awakened by the sound of Josie expelling dinner on the floor in the hallway. She does not like getting sick (who does) and occasionally she will go slipping and sliding all over the floor because she tips herself up onto her toe nails and attempts to walk. I'm not sure what she is trying to do by walking (slipping) this way (other than freak herself out sufficiently), but when she does, I try to be there to hold her. Thankfully she did not do that this morning because as she is freaking herself out, when I am woken from a deep sleep to that sight I get freaked out too...I always fear and think (and still wonder about) seizure.

Usually she will come to my side of the bed and she'll be smacking her lips (it's her tell). She did not do that last night (that I recall) and instead I woke to the sound of one dog yacking in the hall. New alarm tone? It is a sound that would get anyone out of bed quickly so they can assess the damage and make sure the animal in question is leaning over the hardwoods.

She seems fine this morning and is currently tucked in bed with Kev and Simon. Not sure where Chloe is (although she just had her yacking turn a second ago).

A "mothers" work is never done, from what I hear. I am just wondering when Simon is going to yack so I can clean that up too.

thanks, kids

So I wanted to thank you three who answered the question in the last post. I didn't think it was a legal document either, unless signed...etc. The woman who was making a point of telling me I was wrong does work for us already. She just likes to be right about things all the time, has a big opinion, but she's not the type to sue or anything like that because she's as good as family to us (I know, there are cases of family suing family...but this is different).

Anyway, that said...today is boring. Work, THREE SALES and I'm halfway through my day. What gives people?!

Okay, one small "rush" later and the tally is only up two pairs more. Ugh.

I'm going to do some research on foot ailments. Fun, no?

better space

I've spoken candidly with the offender. He now knows he can't be a jackass...even if it wasn't on purpose. :)

Interviewing candidates for a new location. It's been interesting. Three people yesterday, two today, and one tomorrow. So far I've visited with four people, two are out for sure and two are on the call back list. I will call the two individuals and let them know why we are passing, which I don't expect to be fun for anyone. One guy just didn't think before he spoke. The other girl left me wanting more. None of her answers were full of much.

I meet with one more woman today and another woman tomorrow. I've had a good time meeting with everyone, so far.

So, if you write a handbook for a company, small company, does it become a legal document? The way I look at it, as does Chas and Ahmed, is it's a guide for our employees when they don't know the answers to general procedures, etc. One of the women who work for us (she's 100% opinionated) thinks it becomes a legal issue and makes me have to become more HR than I am thinking. What you all think? I'm not exactly sure what she means by her statement, either.

choose your words

I was told yesterday that something I had created "sucked." Now, knowing the person that said this, I am not 100% angry or ready to tear eyeballs from sockets, however I am ready to tell this person that another version of sucks could be "not your best work." It is a little less hurtful and not quite as heavy a blow to the ego.

whole lotta nothin'

Yesterday was exactly what I needed after walking for almost four days straight. I woke around 7:30 to feed everyone and then came out to the cave and sat. I sat all day. I sat and watched dumb television. I sat as I ate. I sat sat sat.

I'm ready to get to work today. I've got to call a few people to set up a few interviews. I have to write up the interview questions and print them out for note taking. I've got a clean store to see (the entire time we were gone when we'd speak with Drew he'd have a new something to tell us about...like shelves he made for outgoing transfers).

Mainly, I have work to do. I am ready. I am thankful. I am glad I got to sit yesterday. It allowed me to re-energize and get prepared for the next six months (this show happens every six months). I had a blast and would do it all again, exactly the same.

Oh and B- roulette was how I won the "big" money I did. :) I liked it best on the first day we were there (Wednesday) because the min bets were only $5.00. :)

As for the Super Bowl...halftime was the best halftime EVER!!! Prince, oh do not get me going...he was amazing!

and i didn't gain 20 lbs!

I had a great time in Vegas. It was filled with much walking, a little bit of gambling, more walking, some looking at shoes, a little more walking, listening and cheering of more and more companies and their drive to become more "green", followed by some walking, and a smidgen of drinking. Seriously, just a smidgen. I don't lie.

I've played roulette and even enjoyed it. Wendy didn't want to play alone and let's just say I had more in my pockets when we left Vegas than when we got there. True story. I lost some on the penny slots, but not more than what I'd made on the penny slots. So all in all, I came home ahead!

We saw some great shoes and some even better people. I got to see my favorite people from Dansko whom I'd met a couple of years ago when Kev and I went to PA for a friends wedding. It was great to get hugs from my girls!

We got to visit with the owner of Troentorp, one of the manufacturers we carry whose factory is in Sweden. Got to bounce ideas off of him and his American half (Paul owns the factory, John owns the warehouse in MN). I got to voice my opinions about styles and colors, which they asked for me to send more as they come to mind.

I had the smoothest margarita I've ever tasted in my life. They went down so easily, but not at a fast pace, or too many in numbers.

Charles and I got to really have some good talks about where we see the shops going, who is going to do certain things (like interviewing people, etc) and who will do other things (like writing up the orders, etc). Ahmed and Wendy were adorable and it was great to have the time with them, away from Portland.

I am home now and waiting for the Super Bowl to start. We have friends coming over and more good times will be had.