Monday, December 31, 2007

Drumroll Please....

Okay. So, I think I've spoken to as many people as humanly possible in the last 48 hours. If I haven't had a chance to get to you yet, I sincerely apologize, but I'm about to burst if I don't shout it out and then promise I won't harp on it too much.

On Saturday, the Tall Guy asked me to marry him. And, I of course said yes.

This pretty much sums it up...but if you want to see all the pics of what happened, go here.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

and some more...

And the parade of what I've knit continues...The airy scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts... knit in Kidsilk Haze. This one was for the Tall Guy's Mom... Same pattern and yarn as above, but in hot pink... This one was for my friend Monica, as part of a small Gift Exchange we do every year.

And, while this is obviously not the finished product... I did actually finish it and gave it to Daneka, who was in the States from Israel for the holidays. Its this Chevron pattern, using one skein (actually about 3/4 of a ball) of Tiny Toes (I have no idea the colourway, I got it prewound with no ball band) and one half (or the rest of what I used the last time) of Fleece Artist, in what I think is the Nova Scotia colorway.

I know I knit other stuff as well... hmm. Oh yes! I finished this guy, with no actual finished photo...I knit it longer then the ballband dishcloth pattern from Mason Dixon Knitting and then added a tab and button, so Yvonne and Al can hang it where ever they want.

There may be a few more wrap up projects to show as well, but thats the bulk of it for now... whew, it seemed like so much more at the time...
The good news is spreading, I'll share soon.

Saturday, December 29, 2007

The first batch

Here is the first in the series of "what I did for my Holiday Knitting" posts.
Also, I have some good news to share, but need to make sure all people in my non-computer world are aware first.

Socks for my Step Mom... Monkey Pattern using Shubui Knits Yarn.

Socks for my aunt... Broadripple, using Cascade Fixation.
For my sister... funny enough we both made hats for one another. My first cable project, courtesy of the Yarn Harlot's Unoriginal Hat Pattern.
More to come soon.

Thursday, December 27, 2007

A little bragging, a little breathing

I can't believe I've been here a week. While its always nice to return home to DC, I'm really not ready for this trip to be over! I've been busy, for sure, but in a way that also means a regular wake up time of 9am and cable TV and visiting with people I never see and Annie. Well. Annie is being spoiled rotten with attention, new toys and love. The dog is not going to be happy about returning to my apartment in a city area after being here for a week. Oh well.

So, before I start revealing all the stuff I knit over the holidays, I need to take a moment to do a little bragging. I taught my sister to knit a few years ago and she does knit. Not in the obsessive way I do, but she knits. So, this Christmas, I told her to knit me something, which apparently totally stressed her out, being that she was knitting for the person that taught her. I, on the other hand love when other people knit for me, so I assured her a plain old anything was fine. I got a card on Christmas morning telling me there were technical difficulties but, the gift was on its way to me soon....yesterday, she presented me with my gift. I was floored! Sister knit me Odessa with the beading! and it fits perfectly! And the yarn is so tasty. Its soft and smooshy and warm on my head. Yay!
Check it out!
So, tomorrow, Annie and I pack up and hit the road back to DC. Anyone want to drive me so I can work on this sock I just started? Grandpa got me a bunch of Socks that Rock for Christmas and I'm trying out the Magic Loop way of knitting socks...

Saturday, December 22, 2007

ahhh.

Annie and I are in NH until next Friday or so. We drove up on Thursday and had an amazingly easy drive considering the storm we were just behind it seemed for half of the ride. Its also a fact that the pup is really good in the car. I knew she was okay around town, but until I popped her in the backseat for the 450+ mile drive to my family (a drive, I should mention that I can do in my sleep, name exits for at will and have three different ways to go depending on time of day and weather, all sans map) I had no idea if she realllly was a car dog. She is. She watched out the window and then slept the better part of the way, occasionally peeking into the front seat to see if I would give her a treat.
So. Now, I'm in NH, chilling. Sleeping. Going on walks with Annie as she explores snow banks (eats dirty snow....) and just generally hanging out. Its fantastic.

I've bought some yarn. Finished a gift today (its drying now). Worked on another gift and am not stressing anymore about knitting. I'll post the gifts when they're all given.

Yay for New England!

Monday, December 17, 2007

Holiday pics!

Before you look, I feel I need to explain. For the sake of privacy, I typically try to keep The Tall Guy's identity at least somewhat off the blog. I'm sure most of you know him, but you know, its just one of those things I do to respect personal space etc. That said, here's a funny picture from yesterday when we went to see introduce Annie to part of my family.
We were requested to do a "Family" picture for the Tall Guys mom. Needless to say, she's getting this photo with his face not blacked out.
Annabelle is adjusting well, likes to do dog-like things and (thank heavens) likes to ride in the car.
That said, we're working on the leash pulling. We got a gentle leader and she hates it to the point of scratching her nose a bit, but its the only way I can walk her without my shoulder feeling like its going to be dislocated. (You can see it a little in the photo above) I think it will just be a slow adjustment process with lots of treats. I must say, though... people look at you like you're a terrible person for having what looks like a muzzle (its NOT!) on your dog.
And, I've decided that I never really need to have kids. Dogs are just as much work, but at least you're allowed to crate them when you leave the house.

Knitting is going slower then it had been as Annie is taking up some knitting time. Tonight, I plan to hopefully sit down for awhile and wrap up some holiday projects. Now that I'm driving to NH, I'll be loosing some knitting time!

Thursday, December 13, 2007

A new member of the family

Things are going to get a little crazy around the house for awhile.

Last night, I brought home Annabelle (Annie) from the Washington Humane Society. More to follow soon, but here she is!


Tuesday, December 11, 2007

still need to shop?

This should be pretty cool on Saturday...I'll have friends in town, so we're going to try to swing through!


Monday, December 10, 2007

All I want for Christmas...

Is for it to be over!
Okay... that sounds harsh. I realize this. But, every year I do the same thing. Swear I won't be stressed by holiday knitting, am calm and suddenly w/two weeks to go, I am casting on new "oh this is cute and quick!" projects left and right! And the kicker? I'm not even going to show you alll of my work until after Christmas. There are enough of you out there I that I know read, even if you don't comment, that I don't want to give away too many big secrets here.
So, that means. You don't get any pictures today.
A funny thing, though? I just had a lovely conversation with my mailman. (Really lovely, not sarcastic lovely) and know what his name is? Mango. I swear. And people in New Hampshire always thought my name was weird? Just saying.

Thursday, December 6, 2007

alpacas and friends

I don't think I'm one to brag excessively, except when it comes to one thing. That "thing" is how fortunate I am to have amazing friends. Friends who are there for everything, yet understand when you are just too tired to chat. Who you see more then once a year even when they live thousands of miles away, but when you don't see the ones that live close, you both know its okay, and you still love each other...
Anyway, before I get too mushy. I went to a college alum thing on Monday and some of my peeps came down from Baltimore. Yve, one of "MY girls" made it down with her boyfriend and had a present for me! See, Yve's BF...his Mom...owns an alpaca farm in Rural Vermont! I've known this for awhile but, hadn't requested yarn, as I didn't want to seem too pushy. Well, they were up in New England visiting this fall and brought me back two hanks of two-ply chocolate brown! Yay! I'm so excited...
Another cool thing? It appears the yarn is a direct match (in terms of weight) and a great contrast to what I procured on our grand fall adventure! Double yay.

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Buy Handmade

The Tall Guy and I, along with some assorted friends have been making the craft show circuit this season.
I Took The Handmade Pledge! BuyHandmade.orgWhile I don't think all my gifts are going to fit the bill, I think its fair to say a large number of them are. I love this movement, it makes so much sense to me. Isn't Christmas about giving from the heart and not about the biggest, shiniest, most technologically advanced thing out there? Maybe that's just me.

winter knitty

The winter knitty is up! Yay! And three sock patterns.. (edit... I went back and looked again.. its actully four pairs of socks!)

This one, however amazes me.
Click here for the pattern. (Photo is courtesy of knitty.com and saved to my server. )
I love the pattern, think its super cute and interesting and the designer... The designer is a high school student! And here I am thinking I'm the cat's pajamas at 28 just being able to knit such patterns!!!! Too funny.

I'm pondering what yarn I should use for it... I just bought this really bright stuff last weekend from Woolarina, that may be it..

Monday, December 3, 2007

A political diversion

Okay... so most of the time I do my best to not wax poetics about politics. Its not my thing in this venue. But, when I read things that just get me all worked up, its hard not to say something.
This weekend, I was getting a ride home from NoVA from a friend and we cut across on 14th st. I looked right as we went between the Capital and Washington Monument and saw all these teeny tiny white flags. Thousands of them. And we all wondered what they were.
Come to find out each flag represented a member of the armed service who no, wasn't killed in action but who was discharged under the "Don't Ask Don't Tell Policy". Here's the article from DCist.

I suppose this is all a part of my political tendencies in general, but how is this a good idea? Bill, you were a great President in so many ways, but this was a mess. As I was thinking about this I realized I'm not even sure I can calm myself enough to speak coherently on the issue, except to say that if someone wants to serve for our Country, how does it make sense that they are not allowed based on sexual preference???? I'm sure there are plenty of people out there that disagree with my own rationale, but I'm nearly sure that plenty of them are the are same people that think every person of the same sex as them, who happens to be homosexual must obviously find them attractive and will hit on them. How vain.

So, back to knitting......
  • I knit this weekend.
  • I bought yarn from woolarina at the craft fair in Baltimore
  • And I finished a little project for my little sister.
  • Now I'm back to my step-mom's Monkey socks, as the people at Lantern Moon sent me a replacement needle (yay!)
  • The US distributor for Colinette sent me my replacement yarn (double yay!)

Photos after Christmas people!

Saturday, December 1, 2007

Week- end re-cap...

This is going to be a little all over the place...

I spent the better part of the day yesterday reviewing applications. Let me tell you. Its not glamorous. That said, I was reading one and at the end of the cover letter, in the closing it says: "God Bless You". I'm having trouble verbalizing why this is so bothersome to me, but it is.


I'm a little nervous. I'm 90% through the Harlots hat in baby alpaca and seem to get a headache everytime I knit more then 10 minutes. Am I allergic? Oh lord. I hope not!!!!


What's important to you in the Nation's next president? The Tall Guy and I have had a number of heated debates on who the next leader of the US will be and/or why??? I'm not sure, but I'm curious what people are thinking right now.


This morning we're heading up to Baltimore for a craft fair! I love a good craft fair and this one is 'spose to be like Crafty Bastards...tonight is dinner with some of my DC girls...I'm really happy about that, since we never seem to see each other at the same time...


Knitting this weekend? Well. I'm trying to finish that hat. I'll take a photo when its done. If I do appear allergic, it will go to my sis. I'm also working on the Tall Guy's Mom's gift (the blue mohair from the other day). She's a knitter, so I think it will be good.


I have 30% of the Monkey Socks to finish. Problem is, I broke another needle this week, so while I can finish the sock with 4 needles, it would be easier to do it with 5.
I'm hoping tomorrow will be the day for the sweater. One of friends is coming over for a knitting lesson, so I'm hoping that will be a good time to wrap the sweater....

If you can't tell, I'm a bit of a knitting schizophrenic (brooklyn tweed quote ) right now. There's just so much I want/need to finish but, am sort of spinning my wheels on what needs to happen when, with holiday timing, when I'll be seeing people etc.

Whew. Pictures soon. Wish me luck!



Thursday, November 29, 2007

Natalie Dee is the sh!$

At least I think so...
And how can you not? Look here for more http://www.nataliedee.com/. Her husband, Drew is the dude who does Toothpaste for Dinner, which, in my opinion is also totally hilarious. They live in Columbus, which also gains points, since we all know I'm obsessed with Columbus for no good reason.

aa href="http://www.nataliedee.com/">natalie dee
nataliedee.com

I've had my cell phone for two years.

For some, that's just a normal statement. For you all, I would like you to pause for a moment and congratulate me. I repeat.... I've had my cell phone for two years! Okay, that said. Its sort of like not having a cell phone right now, because the battery is lasting about 5 minutes before it starts to beep at me. Meaning, I'm starting to carry my charger with me everywhere as well. The keys only work sometimes. Voicemails show up days later. It goes to vibrate on its own (or worse, comes off of silent or vibrate on its own). But, it STILL works. Kind of.

Okay, I know I need a new phone. The pink razr is done. My best friend is telling me she's buying me a gift card to Verizon for Christmas (which I think is hilarious) I'm trying to make it through Christmas though and I'm still debating whether I want Verizon another two years. There's no reason not to have them, but that Iphone is so cute! Okay, I'll have Verizon another two years. I mean, it only makes sense. My cell-phone-talking-world consists of either Verizon customers or Sprint customers and I'm not going back to Sprint. Why is this so hard? Cell phone companies are the pits, I think. So, let's see if the little pink phone and I can make it to December 26. My Dad seems to think there will be sales after Christmas. In the meantime, don't take it personally if I'm not talking on the phone that much, its just been a bit of a challenge lately.

And, onto knitting news. I cast on for the Yarn Harlot's unoriginal hat last night in this sweet baby alpaca from Cascade. (Colour 562) Because I'm using a smaller needle size, I think I'm going to pull the whole thing out and add a cable repeat. It's another holiday gift, surprise surprise:) It appears right now like it would fit an 8yr old and I don't know any 8yr old's that I'm knitting for!

The sweater is all cast off and the pocket needs to be tacked on. I think, however that I'm going to undo the bind off at the bottom and knit a few more rounds...its the sweater, people, that will not end.

The Tall Guy said the other night that my hands must be really strong now, and I hadn't really thought about it, but I wonder if knitters hands are physically stronger then your average person?

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

And there you have it

For those who only read to see the knitting, today's your day.
First up.. A mohair scarf that really is a lovely shade of HOT pink . The pattern is from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, but I made mine a bit longer.


And in a different light...

Now, the beginning of this guy may look familar... yes, same pattern as above, but a different color. This is one of those projects that looks much harder then it is. Therefore, its a great gift-giving item.

This is a 75% complete sock. Its on pause at the moment, but will pick back up soon. I love love love this yarn. Its Socks that Rock, Silkie. And its YUMMY to knit. So yummy...sigh.

And finally. Last night, I had some time to kill when I was at the Yoga studio, so I wandered into the used book store that's right next door. I picked up a copy of Knitting in Plain English for 5 bucks! Yay for Used Book Stores!!!!

There. Are you happy? No sweater yet, but its coming. I swear.


Monday, November 26, 2007

Tegan and Sara part deux



In case you weren't convinced...here's a video...and, for the record, while the Tall Guy doesn't necessarily agree...for a second, just a second I did consider a new hair style. I guess I'm just not that punk rock anymore... sigh.

Another Sid post

A lot of my close friends knew Sid pretty well. When we lost the last pet in Casa De Pia, My Worst Enemy (also known as MK at times) wrote a haiku in Myron Beta Fish's honor. This time he took it up a notch. I give you MK's tribute to Sid.


Post Thanksgiving Let-Down

Whew. I spent most of yesterday sitting on the couch, napping and feeling so-so. What a nice, long weekend!

On Saturday night, the Tall Guy and I decided to venture out to a last minute show on the GW campus. Neither of us had actually been to a concert in forever... we thought the show was sold out, but when we got to the venue, I walked in to make sure there were no tickets left and what-do-you-know! We scored 9th row, center seats to Tegan and Sara ! So, 5 minutes before the show started, we were hooked up with face-value tickets.

Now, I'm not sure if you know these girls, but I personally...LOVE THEM. I've listened to them for ages and didn't even know they were in town until the Tall Guy told me! How can you not love cute identical twins from Canada who write and sing all their own music? The fan base appeared to be predominately female of an Ani-like disposition, so it made for some excellent people watching. We did leave the show a bit early (during the encore) which I felt a bit lame about, but for whatever reason, I started to get incredibly light headed and I feared passing out right in the auditorium. What can I say, sometimes I'm a wuss..

Knitting also happened this weekend and I'll post pics quick as can be... some is still being held back for gift-giving, but I hope to have a sweater to show soon!
Happy Monday!

Saturday, November 24, 2007

so close, yet so far away

I'm nearing completion on my very first sweater. Yes, I've been knitting for years, but have never actually knit a sweater. It was very intimidating, for some reason. So, I'm SO close, I can taste it. One sleeve, some finishing, block it, and its done! Yet, it just seems so far away with so much other knitting that should be happening right now. Sigh. Today, as a by-product of the holiday, I got to spend the day w/my step sis. We spent the majority of it sitting on the couch watching Laguna Beach and knitting. It was awesome. Of course, I should have been taking sister all over to see cool things, hang out in a city etc, but its not often we get to knit together. So, we did. And one of the sleeves got done on the sweater.
Lord willing' I'll have it done in the next week or so and then I'll show you pictures. Until that time, I'll keep you in suspense, I want to show off the finished product instead of you seeing a lumpy, one armed sweater that needs to have things sewn in and a bath.
Oh, and happy holidays to all, it was, as always a crazy turkey day here, with the normal family excitement and drama. I love my family.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Brush with celebrity?

There's a question mark at the end of the title for a reason. See. We've talked about this before, but I'll say it again. I am a big fat knitting dork. I learned ages ago, but its probably been the past three or four that my crush and I have been steady. That said, I'm also an internet geek. Combine the two, and like a lot of knitters out there, I know who the knitting celebrities are, I read thier blogs, I read their books and I forget they're like the rest of us who knit and blog and have lives.
So, I was reading the Harlot's blog the other day (really. folks. if you're not a knitter, she's funny as hell anyway, and you can call her The Yarn Harlot) and found an interesting point of note (our two yarns were the same colourway, but didn't look anything alike.) So, I posted a comment. The Harlot gets lots and lots of comments, so I thought nothing of it. Well. What do you know. Less then a hour later, I had an email sitting in my inbox from the Harlot herself giving me her thoughts on why our yarns were different. Okay, maybe this isn't a big deal. I realize that. Just think of your hobby. And then think of one of the coolest people you know who do that hobby (you know...like um... Lance Armstrong or Jonny Mosly). Now, think about them just emailing you about something totally mundane! Crazy, huh?
Well, its not that big of deal, but I was having a sad Friday with Sid's passing, so it was cool to see Stephanie takes the time to respond sometimes.
That said, the yarn being discussed is called Rocktober and I got it while at Stitches earlier this fall. It can be viewed here. Basically, what I noticed was that mine is very rusty/red and Stephanie's was much more purple/plum. She said that it was most likely my monitor as her's is a red too. Totally uncool, I realize but, I thought it was neat all the same.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

In Memoriam- Sid Vicious


Yesterday, I came home from work to find my sweet little beardie was no longer with us.
Sid showed no signs of illness, and he was only 4. I'll miss the little guy, he was an incredibly tame and well behaved Bearded Dragon.
A few pictures for you..

The week I got him..
Still getting used to holding him... (above)

I was pretty sure he understood English.


though..he wasn't the best at posing for pictures...


He wasn't a big fan of taking a bath, but was a good sport about it

I'll miss you, buddy.

Friday, November 16, 2007

she's a man-eater

I always thought that song was funny. I supose I'm not so much a man eater as I am an ipod eater.

This past month I realized my pretty red ipod



was only working in mono, not stereo (aka, only out of one ear bud). If you squeezed it or pushed it just right it would work, but only if it felt like it.

Last night, the Tall Guy and I took a field trip to the Apple Store and what-do-you-know, because this ipod is within its first year of life, they are replacing it, no questions asked. That's what I call a pretty good deal.

That said, the new Ipod coming to me today or Monday (they were out of stock of my particular model) will be my Fifth ipod in three years. (though only two were actually purchased). The Tall Guy had managed to break the Shuffle I got him last year for Christmas, so he also go his replaced last night and that makes the new shuffle his fourth in as many years.

Kind of crazy, if you ask me.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Just when you thought

My camera returning would mean a good picture! I wanted to show you what I cast on last night and alas, only have my camera phone to use here... Its part of Amy's Christmas gift. She already knows about it and the deal is, I'll start it, and she'll finish it. She's a knitter, not quite as obsessed as I may be, but you know, it doesn't hurt to tempt her with alpaca fiber and nice new bamboo needles which she'll get to keep.
Its another chevron scarf, but I figured it looks cool and is sort of close to UNH colors, where she is presently a freshman. Speaking of Amy (oh she's my step-sister, ps), I'm getting psyched for next week! Her and my Grandfather are flying down for Thanksgiving, which is always a great time at my Aunt and Uncle's house. I hope to have at least a foot (I'm multi tasking people!) of the scarf done before she gets here, so I can just hand off to her the whole kit and ka-boodle.
We'll see.
I went to a new LYS this past weekend for the grand opening. Nature's Yarn, in Fairfax was pretty nice. Its basically at the intersection of 29 and 50 (just south on the right) and for some reason I can't find the web site, which is pretty bare anyway. The exciting part, was that right next door was Tippy's Taco. The Tall Guy and I had a tasty lunch (and I don't really like Mexican, its true) before venturing into the Yarn store. The store itself was stocked with basics, had a great needle selection and had a ton of SWTC yarns in addition to a lot of Jitterbug, which I am a bit hesitant to buy now-a-days.
In the meantime, I have other FO's to show, but I'm going to hold on at least one until the recipient gets it. Though I know they aren't a reader, others are, which would then get a little confusing. My stepmom's Monkey's are on the heel flap now! I hope to get that done and blocked this weekend at well! Yay for actually finishing things!
I'm hoping the next week or so will lend itself to hanging out time with knitting. Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Eureka!

The camera has been located!
Apparently, all I had to do was unpack my suitcase!
Now... this is Erica's pirate. Last I checked, it didn't have a name yet, but I continue to call it Jack. Not sure why.Yes, he does have a "peg leg" and yes, I did embroider tattoos on both of his arms. There were no details left undone for this pirate, it was going to my bestest friend!

The Tall Guy assisted with the finishing/stuffing and adding on hair on Jack. Our friend Tom stopped by and lended moral support (no photo of Tom)

and, here's San Diego (Carlsbad, actually) where we spent last weekend at a wedding.
More stuff to follow now that I have the digital image recorder back in my hot little hands!

well, this is cute!

I normally try to not exploit small adorable children for the sake of my blog. Today, however I'm desperate. My camera is entering its first full week of M.I.A. status and I figure a whole lot of you will stop reading once I stop showing you funny or colourful things.
That said, I sent a box over to Israel after one of my very good friends from High School had a baby. Here's Ben modeling the socks I sent, which are a modified jaywalker.
People, meet Ben. Obviously, I already think he's awesome, even though we haven't met yet. I can't wait for the holidays, when Ben (oh yeah, and his parents...) come back to the states for a visit. And, fine, I know, I know I'm getting close to 30, but I'm still getting used to the idea that my friends are having babies. It's weird, okay?

Thursday, November 8, 2007

it gets a little better

Pizza and beer fix a lot of things... and that's what i had for dinner tonight. It was a long day in HR girl world... boring meetings across town in a room that was (there was a thermostat) 60 degrees. Having to do HR girl stuff that sucks and I can't talk about. And then having to give my boss a hug goodbye. Bummers. The end of the day picked up, however, as I received unexpected good work-news that I can't talk about yet, Alyssa asked me to go to the knitting store with her (oh, dear, pull my arm) and then I had a hilarious conversation with my dad on the phone.
Now, I sit on my couch, quietly.
I still don't know where my camera is. I checked the bags. I'm thinking its either in my desk at work OR at the Tall Guy's house.
I have to go back to that cold meeting room tomorrow, but at least now I'm prepared.
And, tomorrow, in case you aren't aware, is FRIDAY. And yes, my Uncle is making dinner on Saturday, which is pretty rad.
One day, I'll show you pictures, I promise.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Pause for a little whining.

Okay. I really try to be the one that isn't always complaining. You never want to be "that person" because people don't want to be around you and well. Well, that just stinks now, doesn't it?

That said, I guess I don't have that much to complain about today, but I will do a little bit of bitching and moaning.

First. My direct supervisor is leaving my Agency as of tomorrow. This means, that as of tomorrow, my little branch of people within a greater organization will have lost 3 full time employees, leaving four of us to do 7 people's jobs. Two other groups I work with daily are also down staff, so its only compounding the situation. Only one, my supervisor is slated to be back filled, meaning that we're still down two people. This sucks for a variety of obvious reasons, but the worst in my mind is how much I feel like I'm apologizing to my customers. I only have so many hours to do so much and more and more of that is becoming the minimum by which we can continue to get by. I'm sure this will pass and we're certainly keeping things moving and people are getting paid, but it still gives me an upset stomach.

Second. I can't find my camera to post some photos of my newest projects and Erica's pirate. I know the camera is in one of three bags, I just haven't had the time to pull the bags apart, pull out the camera, upload etc. I'll get to it. Also, along this thread is that I haven't had the time to sit down and figure out what my new internet service should be. Anyone in the DC area reading, if you have a suggestion that isn't Suckcast (Comcast), I'm open. (On a side note, Suckcast did just send me a check for $30.00 for the days I had no internet though I had paid for it!)

Third. Hmm. I can't remember what was third. Oh! Yoga. Sigh. Life has been so chaotic that I had quit the working part and was just "work-trading" one night a week at the studio. Lately, though, its been that I'm only having time to work and not trade. I'm hoping this gets better and I was considering leaving the studio so I could get back on the mat, but the studio is short staffed at the moment, and I really feel bad about that. We'll see. I've been with them for so long, I feel bad just leaving all together.

Fourth. I need to book a plane ticket home. Every time I go to do it, the prices change again. I can't decide when I should suck it up and book. Also, if you're someone I may see while I'm home, can you give me a window of when you're home? I'm trying to make it the most bang for my buck, so-to-speak.


And finally. Well. I'm not sure what else I have to bitch about. I think I'm done. That said, this weekend is looking like three days of chillin', knittin', going to NoVa to see my family w/the Tall Guy for dinner and umm. A whole lot of house cleaning, not stressing and the like. Let's see if that will put me in better spirits.

EDIT: How could I forget? The reason why I was posting this to complain in the first place! Yesterday, while I was moving my RPM socks from one bag to another, I discovered one of the needles had snapped. I'm only using four out of five for this pattern, but will obviously need the 5th at some point. Anyway. They're size 1.5, I think ebony (maybe rosewood, but I think ebony) and I bought them in Ohio. I thought they were Latern Moon, but when I talked to the girl there (she was super super nice via email) she told me that they don't make 1.5's. So, I've emailed the store in Ohio to see if they can tell me what needles I bought (because I'm dumb and can't remember) in hopes that I can get a new one sent to me. Keep your fingers crossed, these little guys are not cheap!

Monday, November 5, 2007

and.... I'm back!

Good lord. What a weekend. I'm back in one piece. and SO tired. The Tall Guy and I were discussing last night while on the final leg of our adventure from Dallas to DC that normally one looks forward to Daylight Savings. An extra hour of sleep! When I was a young chick some bars actually stayed open an extra hour as the clocks changed! Yesterday, however just threw my internal clock that much further off on its schedule. So, now, I'm at work staring into space.
Now. The couple got married. She looked amazing, he looked handsome in his dress blues (He's a Marine, fresh back from Iraq) and all the bridesmaids somehow ended up in the same style dress even though it was not required. We lost the music to get up the aisle and the bride was over 30 minutes late. Otherwise, well. I think it was weekend of total and complete chaos, but the job got done, there are rings on the hands, everyone got tipsy, I got to see Erica, got to meet one of the Tall Guy's good friends from home and overall, it was a success. I'll post a picture or two when I get them, as I once again, took like...one picture.
Erica got her gift, so I'll post a picture of that shortly as well. It was my first venture into knit creatures and she appears to like it a lot.
In the knitting world, I didn't end up doing that much while gone. The heel on one new sock is turned (for me....) and I worked on a quickie scarf as well. I need to review my holiday knitting plan, but I still think I'm okay.
I'll be back with more when I'm more coherent!

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

And away we go!

Tomorrow the Tall Guy and I are heading to San Diego for a wedding I'm in, which I've been mentioning along the way the past few months. That said, it appears the winds have died down, the bride is in a brace/off the crutches, I have a dress (there's the hem!) I have shoes (I couldn't bear to wear silver strappy shoes...). It appears we're good to go. Yay!

Now, things to report... first, as I'm knitting more, I'm also winding yarn more often. I'm sort of obsessed with making a swift instead of buying one. There's a photo on this blog, in addition to a interesting demo of using an electric mixer to wind the yarn off of the swift. Weird if you ask me, but still funny to look at. This weekend we'll be a stone's throw from Legoland...but will be able able to go? I doubt it. Boo. So, I think making this swift is going to be a cold weather project for the Tall Guy and I, since I love yarn and he loves projects. Silly, yes, but it looks functional to me.
Now, I have a few things to show off but, most of that you won't see until I get back. We'll be seeing my HLP (aka Bestest Friend) while we're out on the West Coast and I have a package of homemade goodness in my suitcase for her which I won't disclose until we get back!

So, I have one Monkey Sock complete here and the next will be cast one while traveling tomorrow. These are a Christmas Present, so yes, its shown on my foot, but I'm not keeping them! They will shirk a bit and the recipient's foot is a tad bigger and wider then mine. I'm pretty much on target right now for Holiday knitting while also promising myself to stay true to actually liking what I'm knitting and not just turning myself into a one person sweatshop operation!
I've made it to the end of the post without mentioning the Red Sox... really, what more needs to be said. They kicked some serious ass. New England, in general is looking pretty awesome right now, so much that I'm starting to become a much better home-town-pride-sports-fan then I used to be...how could you not with the likes of the Patriots, Boston College, the Celtics AND the Bruins all looking great in addition to the Sox? Okay, I'm done now so...yay New England!
Chances are, I won't be posting again until next week, unless the spirit moves me later tonight, so have a lovely weekend all!

Friday, October 26, 2007

Damn, that's talent

I was the assistant and pumpkin seed toaster and Red Sox watcher. The tall guy was the talent in this years pumpkin carving. I, for one, am impressed.
Today I am knitting, getting my haircut, and hopefully laying low for the most part...

Thursday, October 25, 2007

I'm a ruff rider

Its been a hectic week with not a whole lot of knitting time... I've been actually watching the baseball games (Go SOX!), drinking too much (too many happy hours this week!), helping Em from thousands of miles aways wrap up wedding planning and ward off fires (yes, the wedding in a week is IN San Diego County) and having a generally busy few days.
Tuesday night's happy hour was for my high school. This may sound strange to have an event 500+ miles away from where I went, but I went to a small Catholic prep school, so its not that odd for them to start doing regional alumni events. It was a little awkward at first, but I got to see some people I hadn't seen in years. The coolest part was probably being able to see my old Vice-Principal (now about to retire Head Principal). As a briefing for most people that don't actually know me, those 4 years were pretty terrible for me and my family. My high school was incredibly supportive of me during that time, asking few questions, letting me space out in class and letting me head out early when then knew I had bigger things to deal with then a quiz on the Scarlet Letter. (I still haven't read it!). That said, I felt like I needed to thank Mr Quinn, as I had never really had chance, pretty much walking out the door the day I graduated and never looked back... so it ended up being a bit more emotionally draining then I expected, but that may just have been because they gave me all the Blue Moon I could drink and I didn't eat anything...
Now, the reason I've been out of touch this week, in addition to lots of happy hours, is that I've been in training most of this week at the Office of Personnel Management. The building is named after Teddy Roosevelt, which is why the term Rough Riders in the building shouldn't be that surprising. That said, I couldn't help but giggle when I saw this sign on my way to lunch.
As we speak, the tall guy and I are carving the monster pumpkin we got while at corn maze last weekend. I'll show it off tomorrow.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Alpacas= Yarn


We're all posing.
Originally uploaded by sparklypia

Good Monday morning to you all... it was a busy, crazy weekend, but the outcomes were all positive.
I'm happy to be wearing my Sox tee in the picture taken yesterday (I'll explain the pic in a minute)...it was with a hop in my step that I told my boss that this Monday was better then most...my Sox are in the World Series for the second time in four years!!!! I can only express my sadness that I won't be getting in the car and driving up to watch the game with some of my best friends who have moved back to Boston from DC since the last time the Sox made it this far... instead I'll be in training and then heading to San Diego next Wednesday for a wedding. boo.
That said. Yes, that's me and two alpacas in the photo. Yesterday was the Fall Farm Extravaganza (as we called it). We left the house in the morning and didn't get back until about 7pm. Driving north out of DC, we went to a ferry that crosses the Potomac north of Great Falls. It was pretty funny, but cool nonetheless. I'm pretty sure I could have waded across this part of the river.
From the ferry, we went apple picking and then on to an Alpaca Farm. There, I purchase 4oz of Sport Weight, Handspun that came from the Alpaca in the photo. There was a lot of nonsense going on w/those two alpacas and if I can get my hands on the video we took of it I'll post.
After the Alpaca farm, we were all hungry so we went to a German Beir Garden (yes, in Virginia) and had a bratwurst and a beer. It wasn't that amazing, but it was an beautiful day, so we all sat outside and enjoyed the weather.
Down the street was a winery that had live music, so we swung in there for a tasting. The building was gorgeous, the music was funny (old guys singing Elvis with a banjo?) the wine, not that great and the woman doing the tasting for us? weird to say the least.

After the wine, we all piled back into the cars and did the longest leg of the day... to the corn maze. I had never even seen a corn maze. What a weird, but fun concept! We had a blast trying to figure out a way through it, and getting lost and found again. Granted, the Tall Guy could see right over a lot of the stalks, but well, me. I couldn't.
Overall, it was the perfect fall adventure. If you want to see more pics from the day, go here

Saturday, October 20, 2007

summer weather be damned!

The Tall Guy and a few of our friends are going on an adventure tomorrow. I've been obsessing about going in a corn maze, going apple picking and carving pumpkins. Granted this week never seemed to go below 75 degrees, but well. That's what living in DC gives you. As this is my 6th Fall here I realize the only think you can expect is the weather to be unpredictable.
I'll report back and take pictures.
And... for those that have been waiting. Here's my new shoes. Now. I must say, I was wearing them this week w/out socks and now have a little blister. So, to hell with everyone that says they're the most comfortable shoes on the planet. I do think they're fun, however.
Now, I'm afraid that some of my knitting for the next few months will not be displayed on here as they will be gifts... I'll do what I can to keep up, though!!!

Friday, October 19, 2007

I thought it was fall....

But it feels more like August right now. Sticky, Humid and I look awfully silly wearing a scarf around. Thing is, I want to wear a scarf! How is it supposed to be nearly Halloween when its going up to 80 all weekend? I'm knitting wool socks and sweating, thinking about turning on the ac! Ugggh.
That said. Let's all give a big cheer for my Boys. They managed to pull it off last night, sending the playoffs right back to Fenway. Baseball watching (with a bit of Gray's Anatomy thrown in) made for good knitting time last night. The Monkey sock is about halfway down the foot and I hope to finish this weekend and cast on the second one.
And, finally speaking of Gray's Anatomy... is anyone else hitting that "disappointment in the show" point I am? I love the medical stuff, I love the drama, but I really, really want to tell Meredith to stop whining and get a therapist. But, that's just me, talking about shows like the people actually exist.....

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

And here's the yarn...

I know, I've been withholding. I'm sorry, I'll try to work better at not doing that.
So, here it is...
First, some of my haul from Stitches East... I stuck to things I would have trouble buying at a LYS and had some excellent luck. First up, Lisa Souza, the Merino Superwash hardtwist. Great stuff and amazing yardage.

Storm Moon Knits, a Local Indie Dyer who I'd been hearing about via Ravelry. I had been obsessing recently over knitting a pair of punk rock black and pink socks. I don't know why, but its true. So, look what I found! How awesome. Colorway, Pretty In Pink and also has great yardage (over 400 yards)

I couldn't resist winding this up and starting before I got to take a picture. So, here we have, Socks that Rock in Rocktober. Its a toe up sock for me.
Completely unrelated to Stitches, Mkick was in town last week and we went to Takoma Park. One of the stores there carries Malabrigo. I couldn't resist...

Here are the What's Up 1972 socks completed. As you can see, there's a pretty big color change on the right foot. I had some issues with this yarn with a number of knots (Jitterbug), but have talked to the US Distributor and they'll be replacing it for me. How great is that?

And last but, certainly not least... a certain lizard decided to go for a walk around the house the other day, which is totally normal (he had an adult supervisor), but it seemed that every time I walked into the space he was in, that he wanted to be "by himself". I couldn't get a picture of him that didn't involve him walking away from me! I guess everyone needs a little private time. That said, Sid says hello to everyone.

Edit: How could I forget this? A shout out on Vickie Howell's Blog! She's the best!!!!