Coffee less for a little...

Yesterday morning I didn't make it to work. I could just feel that I was sick. No throwing up or the other, but just the thought that it could happen was more than enough. I picked up the little gurl who was still a little off and we came home to watch videos (I drove halfway and thought I was going to be sick). At 10:30 am the school called that big gurl was unwell. Out we went. She was burning up (and considering her class room was filled with yummy treats and she just wanted to come home). She came home and slept and then the little one slept and just when i would have gone to sleep the big one woke up and just when she was going back to sleep the little.... You get the idea. My mom didn't come down cause I told her not to. She felt bad cause, believe me, I could use the help.
Little gurl was well enough today to go with Daddy and big gurl is about 85%. Me is at about 65%. Super tired and achy. Managed to pick up gifts for the men in and out of my life and the gurlz are now done. I just wish the maid would come by...
I can't even stand the smell of coffee right now. That means I am not well.
Knitting has been accomplished however - little gurl's original pair of socks just need grafting at the toe and the ends woven in. Big gurl's purse is almost to the handles. The scarf is on a time out and well still haven't started something for the niece. If they get something they get something. If not, oh well.
My sister called Thursday night and she was flying about the present I sent. That really made my night. The other packages are 'somewhere' between the main sorting place and their destination - the US ones have entered the US.
I watched the first 3 Harry Potter movies yesterday (again). The next two are coming, along with a gift for the gurlz, but I don't think they will make it before Christmas. I haven't seen either of them yet. Read all but the 7th book - just haven't made it to the library to get it out. Funny about the HP videos - big gurl won't watch them, but little gurl just sat beside me commenting occasionally on stuff - the baby Harry, the cat, the dog, the owl, the car, the train. Guess she isn't quite as sheltered as her sister was at that age.
Pictures should be coming soon, once the ends are done and things get a little farther along.
Merry Christmas if I don't get on before then!!

Coffee Topic #?

What would be the perfect vacation during the Winter Season? Would rather you head to the beach, to escape all the cold weather or want to pack your ski's and head to the mountains. You tell us what vacation you prefer during the Winter Season.
I honestly don't know. I've never really had a winter season vacation, but I think a week at a resort specializing in all those wintry fun sports would be great. Something to entertain the kids, but also to have adult time. I don't really feel the need to escape the cold weather by going somewhere warm - would much rather be in a winter wonderland. Skiing, skating, tobogganing and other snow fun.

update- little gurl is better (after politely throwing up on the kitchen floor rather then my bed) and tomorrow will be back to work. Of course, the washing machine has died. Full of water and wet laundry. Happy holidays - oh and all my Christmas parcels that required mailing have left the building!!!

Finally & ARRRRGGGGHH

I finally mailed out my WWCS package. It may get there before the 31st - I have a tracking number and everything so my recipient will hopefully enjoy some coffee goodness before the new year. Funny thing - she has 2 gurlz, I have 2 gurlz, at least one is redheaded - we all are...
I think I did a good job of spoiling her - the box couldn't hold anymore.
Wendy was the winner of my contest - I was her SP11 spoiler, so today I mailed a box of yarny goodness. The handmade items that were to make it in all my swaps... well maybe next year.
Christmas parcels - well they are still on the kitchen table. I cannot find Grandpa and Grandma Mary's address. I save every return address label that I get from them and guess what - they are nowhere to be found. I know they are somewhere safe... Now would be a really good time for big gurl'z father to call - useful things you know. If anyone out there lives in Florida and knows them, could you send me their address (phone number is in the same place)
My little sister's package is still on the table. I am looking for something else to put in it - without adding a lot of bulk and weight. Thinking a gift card, but unfortunately, I haven't found one yet. Had to call Mom for her address as the address book was AWOL - found it after the fact but not one of those little labels were in it.
I spent the night and morning snuggling my little gurl. She spiked a temperature last night - around 9:00 pm and it just keeps coming back. I have to admit I am paranoid as last Christmas Day she had one of those febrile seizures and we were in Emergency for a few hours - pneumonia. This is like deja vu of last year so she has had a chest xray and we are working on the urine sample - I think I will ask Nell for some advice on that one. Try to get a 2.2 year old to pee on demand. HAHAHA. She went the minute I walked away to let her just do her thing. Guilt is eating me up - shouldn't have had a tub with them, shouldn't have let her play outside, should keep her in a glass bubble, change her diaper every hour, .... I have a headache from the guilt - and bet you anything I have something before the end of the year - always get sick during the holidays.
Nothing has been done. I don't count one pot of soup (had to eat dinner) and one sink of dishes. My laundry room got super clean yesterday - I think I am in the wrong house when I walk down there. We received at least a foot of snow yesterday - after 8:30 am and before about 6:30 pm. Thanks to Don for coming partway through to snowblow a portion anyways.
I snuggled the little one (and slept myself) for about 3 hours this morning (after I shoveled the snow and the freshly snowplowed driveway - they came by TWICE with the plow while I was out there. Really need to pick up some decent snow boots.
We were at the doctor's from 1:00 to 2:30 - but they did the xray super fast and he looked at them and couldn't see anything. I appreciated the fact that he didn't brush it off as flu or nothing, cause I'm not usually one to panic. (side effect of the fact that still feel guilty for last year's nightmare illness - imagine a room of all your aunts, uncles and cousins and thinking your baby is dying).
Sorry for the drama and guilt, but I think that like most parents, the worst imaginable thing could be something bad happening to your child and it has me all torn up.
No knitting done today - arrgghh guilt again cause big gurl'z purse won't be done and little gurlz socks and nephew's scarf (and possibly matching Koolhaas) and niece's ?!?!?!?!
I cancelled my Booty Club subscription cause I feel that I have more yarn than clothes that fit properly and well, the house needs insulating and.... I AM ON A YARN PURCHASING DIET. If it is not paid for as of today, it cannot come in the house (unless extra ball required for nephew's gift).
She had some left yet at around 8:00 pm. Resisting here.

Funny thing...

I read a variety of knitting and crafting blogs. My computer doesn't always like some of the blogs (meaning loads it like crap) and if this continues for a while, I sort of stop going to that blog (Sorry Jen and Cara) . But yesterday (or maybe the day before now) I went back to visit Jen and discovered she has been having problems, so I commented on it - and it helped. Wish I had commented sooner. Go say Hi to Jen - and her pics are still not all coming in, but I'll keep reading again. Of course, if I could figure out this subscribe thing everyone talks about, I wouldn't be clicking in cyber space quite so much.
... we are supposed to get alot of snow here - started at like 7:00 ish - stopped for now. We got less than a centimeter. Maybe when I wake, the weather people won't have lied to me. Looking for a snow day over here.

On the knitting front - nephew's scarf is coming along, but feel it may be a little too serious for an 8 year old. May do something different and give this to biggest brother. Little gurl has two half pairs of socks on the go - one pair has a turned heel (on both) and the other has one completed sock and a second with half a cuff. Big gurl - well I bought the yarn for her purse (and some yarn for me oh my) but trying to finish something is slowing down the others. Of course, the stole is languishing right now as it is just for me and doesn't need to make it under the tree this year. (would really like to finish, but there are the dishes and the laundry and the housework).

Anyways - I have learned that if there is an issue with a blog, tell the blog owner, cause they might not know. Now if only I can figure out why some pictures don't show...

Coffee Topic

For many people, Winter is a time of cold weather and snow - and many fun outdoor activities that can only be enjoyed during those times! What's YOUR favorite activity in Winter, and is it even outdoors??
I love to get outside with the gurlz and just be in the snow - building something, wrestling, sledding, pretty much anything. And then to come inside once you've reached that point of total cold and (really need to pee) to make a hot drink - cocoa or coffee with yummy cookies. Oh yeah.

Silence, final SP11 parcel and other stuff..

Little gurl with her surprises from Katie - chapstick, bath salts and candycane snowman.

Sorry I was away so long - I've been lurking and reading, but just forgot to post.

So what's up?

My dishes are done - 2 days in a row (well except for the 7 soaking right now, but I will get to them).

I received a totally amazing final SP11. I am going to try to get the picture (again) to post here. These things are not going so well for me.

Here is the picture - not very clear, but actually on my blog. There was Fleece Artist sock yarn in (just a minute while I go find the letter from Katie) no label - not losing it here, it is awesome greens and browns. SRK cool spun cotton - dish cloths anyone (perhaps commandeered for doll blankies) lovely cupcake notecards set, Lavish soap in Rain & Vanilla Bean, Craft N Things Holiday magazine - lots of ideas in there, Ganong Mint Chocolates and Truffle Pig in milk, peanut butter and Dark and Raspberry. YUMMY. Have managed not to eat it yet. THANK YOU MISS ME!!!!

In knitting land, I have finished the knitting part of the Saartje's booties but face the daunting task of finding a home for all the ends - about 10 per bootie. Cinderella slipper #1 is complete (with the exception of the ends) and fits beautifully on little gurlz foot. Big gurl says it is just right for her and that we should wrap it up for Christmas. I really tried. I think I will try the same pattern on 3mm needles with a heavier weight sock yarn - they should fit big gurl. The socks that began for little gurl are at about 5 rows before the heel turn. If I didn't have quite so many projects on the go, things would actually be finished.

We made our necessary trip to the Needle Emporium on Saturday. Needed, because the big gurlz sweater was their and well, its always nice to fondle different yarns. I came home with yarn for the nephew's scarf, Malabrigo lace (mini skein) for me, and Rowan 4ply soft (or whatever it is called) for my I Love Gansey's. Felt pretty good about this until we stopped at one of the LYS that are closing and I found some other yarns - pinks and purple for the big gurl and some pretty variegated for my contest winner. There was a little bit of Christmas shopping done, but unfortunately big gurl is not that patient and we came home without some of the essentials - gifts for little gurl and grandparents and fathers and...

Today I bought my gift from the gurlz - and will wrap it with love from Santa for under the tree Christmas morning. I know, I should have theirs done first, but this is kind of for them as I am getting them something similar (just not brand new, cause their feet keep growing!!!

Oh yes - we have a tree - that was Friday, after the little gurlz Christmas concert and helping decorate cardboard gingerbread houses with big gurl - we bought a tree. We also survived the decorating of said tree on Sunday. Can't wait until they are a little bit older and know not to knock into the tree.

My Dashing fingerless mitts have slowed down a little. The first is almost finished - the thumb and the bind off, however I want to put little finger dividers in, so I have to follow the Noro mitt pattern for that and actually need to concentrate. My stole has been knit on a little, but am trying to get the holiday knitting for others done (which means no stole, socks or mitts for me) and there is still a scarf with matching hat (maybe) for nephew, something for niece, Amanda's Squatty Sidekick for big gurl, and the 2 pairs of socks for little gurl to do. Those are on my for sure to do list, but also would like to make Mom and Great Grandma (big gurl) slipper socks - or even to finish the pair started for Mom, plus have a project to complete for volunteer hours for little gurlz daycare and there is a WWCS package to complete along with contest prize to go out. Happily the yarn is all in, it is just a matter of picking up the little things.

Lunch time at work has turned into designated shopping times - I think Dollar store for stocking stuffers or Giant Tiger for other gifts is on the menu tomorrow. (walking distance rule) Also need to make a run to Toys R Us for the specific items I haven't been able to find anywhere else. But may try online first.

Here is big gurl with her surprise from Katie - chapstick, bath salts and a lovely candy cane magic want.

Somewhere in there I have to do laundry and clean up a few rooms in this house. Oh and knit all the yarn that has 'moved in and stashed itself'. I may be stopping any future purchases soon - until I knit at least 15 things? after of course I hit the final closing sale at the LYS. Trying really hard to control the urge to shop.

It's my birthday, I can...

...boss my gurlz if I want to. It's really hard to be mean on your birthday. Especially when you are threatening no treats or anything and there are 10 people expected for the day. We got through that though.

...drink coffee my way. I love coffee, it tastes so good. I brew dark roast usually, with a 3:1 ratio of flavoured coffee. I mean sometimes I put 100% flavoured in, but most of the time, just one scoop of that flavoured coffee mellows it to a nice rich drink. This method has even been expounded upon in one of my favourite fun novels. To Die For, by Linda Howard. in the first chapters, the heroine, Blair Mallory (fluff name) is recounting the whole witness a murder, deal with cops and then to distract herself, makes coffee. I make it her way - to fool the men in the world, and I swear by the salt on top. My mom made some a couple weeks ago and it was kind of bleagh (imagine Snoopy saying that) and when I ran the steps, that's what she didn't do. She thought that cause I had a new coffeemaker, it wasn't necessary. Silly mom. Anyways, back to the book, read it when it was a new release and then returned it to the library and went on with my life. Every now and then parts of the story would flip in my head and I would sort of laugh and try to remember the title or author. I had it right, but because it was one of those mass market paperbacks (and before I discovered the wonders of amazon and chapters online) I couldn't find it. Until she released the sequel, Drop Dead Gorgeous. These are funny wow and actually give me hope that one day I could stick with someone long enough to meet that forever thing. Long story short, bought the second one and then, after searching a number of bookstores, went online and bought the first book. For a light read, these are recommended.

...knit a little? please? I did get a chance to knit a bit. Not much though. There were 7 adults and 6 kids. But, considering we are all related, one is pregnant and one wants to be, (and one really doesn't want to be, but for some reason people think she will do the insane thing and get that way) and there were 6 kids, only a couple bumps and bruises and only one almost heart attack for me. Showed off my knitting a bit, my socks are nicer than SIL's mothers (beautiful Pat, but like mine better. Here, look for yourself. 3 from 1/

Aren't they pretty? There are 3 pairs of things going on there. A Saartje's bootie for a friend's little one - second one is there (all 4 rows of it); toddler socks for little gurl and the Cinderella socks for big gurl. I'm hoping there is enough yarn to make a pair of socks for my niece too. They are all in Skinny Duet,Cowgirl, from Angela at A Swell Yarn Shop. This was already knit up twice in socks for me, but the yarn is just too fine for me to make socks for me out of (I like a nice tight knit and that would require like 80 sts - not my idea of fun) The blue bag in the back is my knitting bag (pretty much the only one, if we don't count my briefcase style bag for projects). Cost me $2 and wish I had picked up a couple to put projects in - just a makeup bag.

...cook if I want to. Today's afternoon meal consisted of roast beef (me), mashed potatoes (me), apple cider ham(me), applesauce(me), salad (SIL), carrot cake(mom), apple pie (M&Ms) and fingerfood leftovers(SIL). It was great. However, I have had 3 parties in 3 days and my fridge is overflowing. This is wrong, it should be empty of all foods. Bonus is no shopping required for another week or so. Taking all extra non-healthy foods to work to distribute among the needy.

...get totally awesome presents. My baby sis works for Tiffany & Co. She sent me this gorgeous pendant, with chain, all done up in the pretty bag and box with a bow and leather jewellery bag. I took it off to photograph, but that is not uploading (as evidenced by the lack of photo above). My gurlz bought me fleecy warm pj pants with dutch tea towels and a new red saute pan with lid from the parents and dinner on Saturday from the biggest bro and SIL (they also helped with the dishes). Big gurl gave me a bag of treasures, with and I love you Mom card. I think she took it back though, cause they were her treasures. I have been strong, and not bought me anything. I'm a member of the SSTC and when you make 3 things from one set of skeins, those skeins don't disappear. It's the thought that counts... right?

...screw up my knitting. Someone told me that wine and lace knitting do not mix. This was proved to me on Friday night, when, after the rest departed I picked up Guinevere and began knitting. Figured I could get 10 rows done and be almost ready for the pattern change. Screwed up on the 2nd pattern repeat of the first row. In my wine induced state (two small glasses with dinner) I figured I would fix it on the way back. Because when you are out one stitch and discover it 3 repeats later and then just end off correctly, it will be easy to fix..right? It took me 15 minutes to determine I had Knit 3 together as opposed to 2, thus moving everything over 1 stitch was required- YO and SSK, K2tog. I put it away and went to bed (where I frogged the fetchings - they will never fit the way I want, knit the way they are, therefore out they came). Last night, I sat down and fixed the stole - circular using for the project, and a 2.5 mm addi - to tink back 2 rows (3 in some spots). So I will not drink and knit lace. Maybe some crocheting or straight stockinette, but no drinking. The stole was fixed back to were it should have been (still 14 rows of this repeat) and then I worked on Saartje. One is all finished - but the finishing. The other is cast on - and I learned my lesson on that one too - I used stitch markers this time. Smart move, stupid. Then I went to bed as I was tired and promptly cast on a Dashing for me. They will be long enough, the yarn was already waiting and it's not getting any warmer out there.

...let my brothers and father plan a fix up outside the house. My little brother took measurements, wrote down dimensions and a list of materials for them to find and I'm hoping the weather stays good enough for me to get 1) new front steps -I've been really good; 2) new roof with eaves on front porch - I'll be even better; 3) new floor and roof on death trap shed - I'll watch your children and bake you goodies; and 4) fix up back porch issues - you can sleep and eat for free if it takes more than 1 day. On top of that, I'm guessing it was too cold in the bathroom for the little bro to ... so he caulked all the way around the window and the room is already warmer (and if you sit in there with the door closed for too long, you won't feel any pain). I've only asked 3 or 4 times for someone to help me with it and was almost to the point of trying myself. Thanks little brother. big bro levelled the washer on Friday night

...talk to a MALE person without getting pregnant or dating them or... scenario: phone rings, I ask someone to get it as I am finding paper towels and stuff for caulking bro, and then mom gives phone to me with statement it's a man and the number is. I take phone and say hello and then Hi David, thank you.......... goodbye. Then I look at mom and SIL (younger bro wife) and say that was big gurl's GRANDPA, but if you think I should keep it in the family no worries, and.... I don't understand why they think (and you are in there too Mel) that I am going to get involved with a guy just like that and be pregnant again. Twice in 5 years is not a habit. Perhaps once a year for 5 years or ... I think guys are great, but most of the good ones are married or related to me in some way, shape or form. If I blush, hang up and then give some stupid story, maybe I'm interested, but even then - the little gurl just about ggave me a heart attack - WHY would I want another???????????????

...almost cry when my baby gurl scares me almost to death. Scenario: adults chatting and eating as children play in various rooms and up and down the stairs. Glance over and note that little gurl is reaching for light switch - hmm interesting, but someone said something and then... glance again and fly across the room to grab her off of the stool which has one side on the top of the stairs and the other in mid air. Stare down these stairs at the boots, door frame and small snow shovel that sweet child may have hit. Control heaving stomach, beg someone to remove stool and sit and snuggle little gurl for a moment. Regain normal heart an breathing rhythm. Try to control nightmares, as am wide awake. MUST STOP THINKING ABOUT IT!!!

...give a prize away - to Birdee (my sp11) Will be shopping for something special for her(again), and there is something I want to try out for each of the contestants. Basically, like me you don't really have something just for your stitch markers. And fingering/sock weight is the winner but it sounds like we are all in love with the specialty dyes and yarns out there today. Thanks ladies!!

Friday

Hooray it's Friday.
It was busy as all get out, but it is over. (almost)
Big gurl had a PA day and so this morning was less rushed than normal and quick off to work as friends were coming for the parade and supper and just hang out.
Good day at work - ignored the phone unless it was someone I called today.
Left a couple hours early so could come home and clean a little and then pick up the gurlz and then it was friend time. Met Regan's little one for the first time and felt that wonderful baby feeling (no worries though - don't want another one - yet).
Parade was small town, but with lots of treats handed out to the kids including stuffed critters and rulers even. The kids had a great time - 5 that could participate and enjoy and really played well together tonight so the Mom's could visit. Lots of reminiscing, some venting by me on the vagaries of society that make us act or push us to do things that really if, we left it alone, it wouldn't matter.
Happy weekend everyone.

Ho Hum Tuesday

Happy Tuesday everyone. It has been a little ho hum in that at 3:30 pm, I decided to take my last hour of work and organize the new files I received in the last 2 weeks or so. Figured there were about 5 or 6 that needed data entry done and then 'date organizing' (FIFO). Imagine my shock at 4:15 pm when I was still not done and there were ones that I didn't remember receiving. As Debbie, Carol and others keep telling me - We've never had this many complex requests or quite so much activity. In fact, Debbie won't even take the job back. She doesn't want it, cause all the files are nasty lately. Oh well. Have redone the heel on the Cinderella socks for big gurl and am progressing on little gurlz'. Unfortunately for the little one, the Cinderella pattern is much more interesting so that sock gets worked on more.
My last SP11 package and my Harvest Sock Swap package have been mailed. Feel like should have put just one more thing in or maybe two...
My weekend list is still there. I haven't done any of those things. Secret project and church books need to be done tomorrow night as I am out of time.
Stupid construction generator noise maker thing. It starts every morning right around 7:00 am but is usually off when we get home. It is still going. I wonder if they forgot to turn it off, or if because it is so cold, we are going to be hearing it 24/7 now. Need to file a complaint.
Won't be going to knit night tonight (cause it's over already) but also cause the gurlz have been really out of sorts lately (take turns little in morning, big at night). Hope its just the crazy weather.
If you want to see real buffalo, they are running around free in the wilds between Welland and Stevensville/Niagara Falls. My mom called me and they are from ZOOZ. A bear got loose from there this summer too. I'm not really concerned. Buffalo are going to do what - eat my leaves?
the bear was captured and returned long time ago already.

If you haven't already, enter my contest.

Saturday's to do list and a Contest

So, my to do list for Saturday was long and well, impossible for little old me. Here are the details:
1.Do the laundry -I did 6 loads yesterday (ran out of hanging room) 3 loads this morning, and there are still 2 (plus the clothes from yesterday and today) to do yet. However I put away all of my dry clothing from yesterday and the clothes from the gurlz are folded for putting in the drawer. We won't speak of the loads that came out of the dryer and are warming my floor.
2. Clean the storage portion of the basement - well, I was able to move a few things, but unfortunately, there were not enough hours in the day (and too many other things on the list)
3. Clean the kitchen - the kitchen was done for about an hour - stove even moved and cleaned inside and behind. I've given up on the dishes. The gurlz had two bite brownies (homemade) and the floor was a mess again (also the reason the dishes are in the negatives again)
4. Finish those church books. whatever - I still have 6 days before my self imposed deadline
5. Play with the gurlz - I did a little and let them outside on their own. They weren't asking me and I really didn't sit down that long to knit.
6. Knit a little - I finished Hint 4 for SoTS and am almost ready to turn the heel on big gurlz sock and have started the leg on little gurlz.
7. Finish boxing up my SP11 package and my Harvest Sock Swap package. Uhm, as soon as I am done here. That will be done (minus the homemade item that didn't quite work) C'est la vie.
8. Go to a friend's for demonstration and some wine and cheese. This was done. I enjoyed myself, but realize that I can't do that too often as I am tired in the morning and the gurlz are well rested. Also, the big gurl told me the boys just wanted to play on the computer -even when they were awake and I don't like that. Perhaps from now on just one of them at a time and no computer, even for videos until the gurlz are in bed.
9. Refix the front steps - This is going to require completely new steps as I looked at them this morning and it's like the wood is just evaporating /rotting from day to day. Oh, the name of the saw is a Circular Saw. (no i didn't remember, I saw one in the flyer.
10. I have to rewrite the secret project and get it emailed off - WHATEVER.

Not on the list - clean the living room and computer room and move construction materials until time for use, the bathroom, bake favourite brownies and for today - just have a restful day (with church at 10:00 am and then straight down to drop big gurl at Christmas party with Grandma and little gurl for afternoon with Daddy and then home, to do nothing I didn't want too (fold laundry on bed, hand some others up, feed myself, knit lots) and then little gurl came home and over to Grandma's for dinner and then home put gurlz to bed.

I had it in mind to do some groceries (sans gurlz) and maybe some Christmas shopping or clothes for me, but I didn't. I'm glad I didn't. Besides, there is always tomorrow for all that stuff.

The Contest
Nothing crazy, and you have until 12:01 am, December 2nd to do this but it may be the 3rd before you actually hear who won.
How does your craft (knitting crochet etc) make you feel? Do different stages stress you out? How about finishing?
WHAT - she's getting older and crazy!!!
Let me explain. I recently re-taught one of my best friends to knit. It stresses her out, yet she is enjoying what she is doing. She's hit the point where she knows it doesn't matter if it is perfect or not, but still she wants it to be just so.
For myself, I don't get stressed about it, unless, it is for someone else (example: single sock that is for someone else and she will make the mate) with knowledge and you want it to be right and fair and of they are 6 and just really really want one or your ultra finicky mother (not that she is bad, just sees all the negatives and...)
If I am not happy with it, I frog it (firestarter inch up the leg and 1st I love Gansey), set it aside for frogging(hat for nephew which is just wrong) or just set it aside(Mom's second pair of socks). With regards to the finishing - there is the little gurlz baby sweater all pieces knitted and ready to go - since August of 2005 - she's 2 years and almost 2 months.
If i feel myself getting stressed about something (without reason - no deadline etc - can you tell I may not participate in sock swap again) I either walk away from it or finish it all up. I've learned to walk away cause I will have to redo it anyways.
Your answer can be simple or long, but let me know.










Just Kidding.

REAL CONTEST: tell me your favourite yarn weight and if you have/use stitch markers, how you store them.

(told you it would be easy)
Affectionately,
the Brat

Coffe Topic #3

What is the ideal setting for enjoying the perfect cup of coffee? Who would be there - or would you be alone? Inside or out? Morning or night? With food or just the steaming cup of joe?
I love sitting with my feet up in the morning hours, (inside when it is cold and outside when it's warm), the steaming hot cup there, perhaps food with it, and just savouring that mug (12 oz at least) of coffee. It's my time and my gurlz know they should let mum be. (not that they do)

Life and other stuff

My birthday is coming up. Not a real big deal for me, just another year older, however I love the way the provincial government reminds you. The licence renewal in September(usually 3 months prior to the date). $74 right off the bat, and then in red print - you must get an e-test this year (emissions test to ensure not polluting the air more than is acceptable. I thought about it in September, but it was back to school time and lots of other expenses going on. October, I almost stopped a few times to get it done. November, I start stressing. I know when my birthday is - last year I did the renewal (without the e-test) the day before- the same day i signed my life away for my new house and ...
We got snow yesterday - only about an inch, but it started as rain and then ice pellets and then the snow. My windshield wipers did not work last night and this morning they were worse. Little stress bugs building on me as I contemplate the last week possible and doing this oil change and e-test thing on Saturday with two gurlz and ...
So I called when I got to work and asked for an appointment for today or tomorrow. I got one for today!! HURRAY. The car dealership (where I bought my car) does the e-test, sells wipers and would do the oil change prior to everything, plus it is right down the road from the vehicle licensing office and my favourite yarn shop and Kris was free for enough time to have a coffee and some pies. So I spent less than expected at the car dealer - tee hee, they never looked at my brakes(yes I will fix them, but today was not the day for this), what was expected at the vehicle licencing office and my birthday present(to me) at the Knitting Habit. Susan is closing December 15th, although she will have an online store, and things are 40-60% off in the store. I went looking for something specific and came out with lovely gifts for my secret pal, lace yarn for this, silky mohair for this - I hope as it is a thicker weight but in Estelle Watercolours, blues and greens; 2 balls of Noro Kureyon - blue (cause that's what was left); one ball of Noro Silk Garden -blues (cause that's what was left); and some Patons Merino Wool for a couple of felting projects (this-but don't tell the gurlz) and a lovely purse kit for me or the big gurl. And then Susan gave me all the 100% wool leftovers from other projects that she found in her clean-up so I can felt and experiment. Thank you Susan!!!! Oh and I bought a pattern book with lovely child sized socks in it and another set of sock needles (cause my sock needle holder had more space)!!! If you're in the area, go check out Susan's shop - some sweet deals there and she does not have the space at home to store it. I am going to do my best not to go back, but...I don't think it will work.
Melinda was over tonight and she shook her head at my yarn purchases (my yarn aholicism). But we had a great time just chatting and knitting while our kids played and eating food together that no one else eats. Lovely to be able to do this with a good friend.
I didn't finish hint 4 for SoTS. Not yet anyways. 14 more rows and they feel like miles. Final hint came today and I love it. I will finish this, but life is getting in the way of knitting time right now and I have some things that need doing.
So tomorrow i need to:
1. Do the laundry - I had one pair of pants left this morning (okay 3 but one is summer weight and the other is just too small)
2. Clean the storage portion of the basement - the clean up outside was just in time, but it's hard to even get to the washing machine right now.
3. Clean the kitchen - the dishes (of course), the floor, the stove and maybe even the fridge.
4. Finish those church books. 2 hours is all it should take me, but i just can't seem to find those hours anywhere. But I am not allowed to turn another year older before they are done and I still do not have the ability to Turn Back Time. So I must get those done.
5. Play with the gurlz - outside in the pile of leaves or go for a walk or something. I need to make the time instead of always saying I have to do this and that and...later and... Big guilt trip on myself for that.
6. Knit a little, sew a little. Do something crafty.
7. Finish boxing up my SP11 package and my Harvest Sock Swap package. I've found the last of the yarns I need (I think) so I need to get these off.
8. Go to a friends for demonstration and some wine and cheese. Gasp you say - she has a babysitter - yes 2! On Thursday they came over for the first time while I ran out to get a little person some winter boots, mitts and some drink boxes for school lunches (and some slipper shoes for me at work and some socks - since I can't knit that fast - and some crafty things). The boys(2 brothers, sons of a friend and coworker) are fabulous and the gurlz already like them , so watch out knit night!!
9. Refix the front steps. To quote someone else, Le Sigh, as expected the weather has made two of the three sidewalk stones sink down enough that I don't like it and the steps are a little off. Perhaps I need to go by myself a saw (the one with the round blade and the safety cover and the - I CANNOT REMEMBER THE NAME - I just point at it in the store and look helpless). Something needs to be done.
10. I have to rewrite the secret project and get it emailed off. I hate trying to recreate my thoughts. Wish I had instant replay in my head.

REAL GOAL: Try to accomplish at least 5 of the aforementioned items before I sleep tomorrow night.

Other knitting - the cuffs of little gurl's socks are done and I have started the 3rd pattern repeat for big gurl's socks. Have this strange little itch to cast something on though. ARRRRGGGHHH

Oh yeah - I also plan on having a contest for my birthday. It will be for yarn and some other goodies. (stuff bought for my various swaps and now replaced with something else). I will get it figured out this weekend and post the actual contest on Sunday.

Wednesday...

started great.
And then, as i rubbed lotion on my legs, the little gurl comes around the corner with red spitting out of her mouth and sort of choking. She is amazing - can open child proof bottles that give me trouble and decided to have a candy -400mg of ibuprofen or 500 mg of acetaminophen. Take your pick, either will give you intense stress. Happily she spit most of it out and after confirmation from telehealth and poison control that it won't hurt her, I relaxed a little. Of course the lecture from poison control about taking medication out of the original bottles and carrying mixed was not appreciated. Quote: Well that's why you shouldn't mix the pills. For situations like this, you won't know how many were in the bottle and could possible have been taken. Because of course I ask for these things to happen and purposefully give my 2 year old painkillers. And I would know exactly how many pills were in the bottle should this have happened. WHO KNOWS THESE THINGS???? I know my gurl(s) though and they don't eat anything they don't like the taste of, so she only tried one and spit it out.
Decompressed at work and am totally exhausted. Kids are wide awake.
Is is raining by you? It is just soaked out there and keeps coming down. Snow by morning they predict.
Knitting has been slow this week - only 16 more rows to finish hint 4 and the cuff of little gurl's socks are coming along.
Have a happy thanksgiving to my American friends and happy regular work to the rest of you.

Knitting...and other stuff

..so with the completion of the previously posted socks, I now have 3 current projects and 3 old ones. There is the SoTS which found some quality time on my needles and is now almost halfway through Clue 4. I have clues 5, 6 and 7 to do yet, plus 8 comes out this Friday. Here's some math: it takes me about an hour to do 10 rows (5 pattern and 5 WS). Clue 4 is 72 rows, and I am on row 31, how long before I finish clue 4? For me - I want to finish it tonight so I can start #5 and possible be on 6 before Friday. Since I bet some people don't believe I am actually knitting this (due to complete lack of photos to date, it is here on Flickr.
If anyone can clue me in how to actually put the pictures from flickr on the blog, I'd love the help.
The Cinderella for big gurl are on their way - sock #1 has two complete pattern repeats done and another one is needed before the toe turn. Love the way it looks in the yarn and no, there are not photos yet.
Project # 3 is a pair for little gurl - two colour socks, same yarn as big gurl'z but have only about a cm of the cuff done so haven't quite decided what to do. The pattern suggests purling whenever a one of the colours shows up and that could be neat as there are 4 in the yarn. I have them working 2 at a time on a 2.25 mm circ (Yarn Pirate's) and they are looking just right.
Old project #1 is the baby blanket with matching sweater. The sweater is done the knitting part, I just have to sew it together. I hate sewing together and if I ever make another baby sweater, it will require no seaming. (on a funny note, I knit my oldest nephew a lovely sweater in Tivoli, when he was 3 or 4 and adapted the pattern so it was knit in the round, with pockets. I need to find a picture of it for you- involved intarsia and all) The blanket has 1.5 more balls of lovely baby yarn to go. Not exactly speed knitting. the hat I made to match - little gurl wore for her first halloween - a lovely pumpkin hat.
#2 is my Moebius ring, for which I found the *photocopy* of the pattern last week, but still have not found the original book. Is it wrong if I did have the pattern book or magazine, but just don't anymore? Feeling slightly criminal here (and on Sunday to beat the band). I still have at least what is knitted to go yet and really not that crazy about the yarn.
#3 is just a fun scarf for someone. Lovely yarn all soft and fluffy with big and little areas and hateful to knit with. Maybe someday it will be done. I finished one for my sister (after I mailed her yarn, needles and knitting instruction book for her birthday, which were returned to me, the next time she came home)
But, that means I only have 6 live projects right now. WOW.
And me with enough yarn and needles to cast on about 20 more. I need to get rid of the castonitis itch and finish something already. Really want to restart my firestarters or my own pair of I love Gansey.
But, I also need to do some sewing/quilting but the sewing machine needs fixing first. Thought I had got around that issue by having Mom bring the 'gets around' machine to my house (it was given to my oldest bro by an old lady his wife ministered to, and has been back and forth between Mom and me twice now). It came in the house on Friday night and on Saturday morning returned to the car as Mom forgot the box of accessories (read EVERYTHING but the machine). She THOUGHT there should be more but couldn't find it.
I love my Mom - she helped me get the outsized winter ready - we had over a centimeter in snow last night between the time we left for the garden center at 4:00 pm and when we got home at 5:00pm. But today was sunny and crisp and things look much better around the outside of the house - the basement is a different story as all those items with an outside summer home, have found their way into it.
As many are aware, the Canadian $ is currently equal to or greater than the American $. I live about 1/2 an hour from 3 different bridges to the US, where there are a vast number of stores. So, on Saturday, Mom, big gurl and I (little gurl is not quite a shopper yet) headed to the Pen Centre- the St. Catharines, Ontario mall - at 9:30 am we arrived. We were home by 2:15 fro lunch. Major bargains - bras - $2.00 each, maidenform brand fit like a DREAM!!! Seriously, for $50 I bought 5 bras (2 were only 30% off, and 4 underwear package of 3 only 30% off). One of the bras regularly sells for $42. I bought it for Mom. I didn't ask her to pay me back. This was at Sears. Big gurl hit pay dirt in Old Navy - less than $50 and she has a gorgeous jumper outfit, and 3 or 4 tanktops and 3 pairs of socks. Also a pair of pants for me from Reitmans for $20. HomeSense? - I think Mom spent $70 there and we got an 8x10 picture frame, 4 baskets(3 Christmas box ones and 1 soft sided one claimed for my upstairs knitting (so I don't stub my toe)), as entryway carpet, a cutting board. We had a 20% off coupon from my Dad, the real estate agent. At Vermeer's, the garden centre, we found some lovely Christmas decorations, some spring bulbs (50% 0ff which were planted today) and some little somethings for my swap pals. We were exhausted. I could not imagine adding a 2+++ hour wait to pay duty on my bargains. Shop local everyone (except for yarn - you must go where it is for the yarn you want)
Have a great week, must go knit knit knit so I can maybe finish clue 4.

Coffee Topic 3

The Thursday upcoming is Thanksgiving in the U.S., so let's all - American and not alike! - just share a post with what it is we're thankful for. A wonderful thing to do any time of year, I thought it'd be a nice thing to share for this week with the group!
I am thankful for my family - little gurlz who love me, parents who help whenever they can, brothers and a sister far enough away that they still love me; friends who seem to know when you need a pick me up; freedom to worship God above all else; and a job that supports my yarn habit.

Pictures may appear.

I have done the camera thing without the Kodak upload. I will just flickr or whatever the pictures.

Here are some ...

Basic toe up plain vanilla for the big gurl. The strings are cause it was bedtime and I had already redone the cuff twice. This was an easy knit, however this pair was made twice. A pair for the little gurl may be forthcoming, but not sure when. Regia Crazy Color - one 50 g ball with about 1/3 left over.

This is for my Harvest Sock Swap. Not sure if it's okay to post first, but just so damned proud of this sock. I Love Gansey knit in Rowan 4 ply soft. I love this sock. It is loose on me, so should fit my swap partner perfectly. I had the sock completely done in Jawoll lang, but you could see skin all over the place and ladders and .. blech. will find another purpose for that yarn.

And this, is just because she is cute. There was one of the big gurl, but it did not upload or whatever. Halloween costume - elephant, but head is not up!

New on the needles are a pair of Cinderella from Knitty for the big gurl. I am working on 2.0 mm needles with my much frogged cowgirl skinny duets. Halfway through the first pattern repeat and think this will work out. They are my 'secret knitting' for her. Want to try to surprise her with these. May I just say that I love cabling without a needle!!!

Promises, promises

Those pictures will show up one day... really.
I have almost completed the big gurl's socks, however ran into some issues with a couple of twisted stitches and in order to fix will need to tink back a few rows.
The test went well this morning and I don't feel too bad about my chances (considering a couple of the people writing it have been there twice as long as me and some only as long as little gurl has been here, it's anyone's guess what will happen.
What happened with the house winterizing - well, isn't it great - I GET TO RENOVATE!
Hooray. Not. However, Keith was concerned with the sight of outside once he had opened the crack to repairable stage and stated that we would be doing it again next year and the year after. I'd rather fix it right and get it looking better. So one of these days I will lose my livingroom for at least a week (preferable only a few days, but I won't hold my breath).
I knit two rows on my SoTS. That leaves me some 250 + rows behind. Crap. However, I did something to my right arm and excessive knitting is not helpful.
My sewing is not going well and I think the machine needs some special treatment. So we just won't sew for a while.
Did you know that when it comes time for one to turn a year older the government feels that you should be spending money? I have to renew my car ownership and get an e-test in the next 2 weeks. In my spare time of course. Hate that present every year. Worst part - I've known for a month and still haven't done it.
Raked some leaves tonight. We have a huge old tree (maple I think) in our back yard and the leaves were stubbornly hanging on, however it was a windy day - and we couldn't get through the gate without walking through them. That's not always safe (subconscious fear of mine) so I raked a small pile. If only it wasn't pitch black when we get home - we could play outside for a little.
Should go to sleep - need to make sure big gurl gets a decent lunch, as she had the principal provide for her today. I am not a bad mother, but when she is yelling and screaming at you that it's your fault her lunch isn't ready (cause I was just chilling with a book on the bench by my sister, even though mommy told me more than 3 times to go upstairs and get stuff ready for lunch) and then doesn't want anything, I'm not going to try to figure something out. Of course, she went to bed without preparing anything again too.
I hate packing lunches - even for myself. Add a picky 6.5 year old into the mix and you really don't have a prayer.
Goodnight.

Hooray!!!

I did it!!!
I finished my Harvest Sock Swap Sock. It is more wintery than harvesty but so gorgeous and just too big for me, so that means it will fit a larger foot and oh wow!!!
Thank goodness, cause tomorrow is house winterizing day and then Tuesday is work and union meeting and Wednesday is test and then they still expect me to work this week.
I hope on Wednesday night to sit down and assemble my packages (SP11 one too) I don't know if I will get a chance to make my something special for these packages, but I have their addresses, so maybe, I can send that later. We will see.
I promise to post pictures as soon as I take them and get them into the computer.
OH and I turned the heel on big gurls first sock and love the way it looks and it fits.
Maybe I can squeeze that in before bed yet.

Coffee Topic #2

As the cold of winter approaches, do you change the projects you work on? Not really. I may work on some of the UFO's from the previous years, however, I continue with whatever is the next project I wanted to do.
Do you work on gifts for others or do you continue working on projects for yourself? I'm finding that the knitting itself is determining whether it stays or goes, depending on how it knits up. I've given more completed knits away this past summer than in the past 5 years.

Finally

..on Thursday I went to work and there was lots of it.
...at about 4:00 pm today I figured out what I do there and did it (JK - but felt pretty dumb some times).
..I have half my dishes done - the other half, well I came over to turn the computer on and forgot to go do them. I should go right now and ...
...my Yarn Pirate Booty club arrived. Killer Bees is the yarn and there were TWO yarn pirate circular needles - size 2.25 and 2.75; 2 sizes I did not have in circs. HOORAY
..I found the little something for my SP11 pal and ordered it (may have mentioned that already). It arrived today - less than five days. Shop at the Sweet Sheep for speedy delivery Robyn's Nest is also fast, just didn't have this item.
...I am on the homes stretch of the harvest sock - I have learned my lesson and will try it in the recommended yarn (provided I have it) first from now on.
...worked on big gurl's socks and am halfway through the gusset increases.
...Friday, and I have a 3 day weekend due to remembrance day. Of course, there is still lots to do.
Only thing left to do ... figure the camera out again.

Please Please Please

...let me go back to work. I'll be ever so good and do everything I should.
...let the second I love Gansey sock (the first is complete, but the yarn is not at all the thing once it is on the foot) work. It is currently waiting for the gusset work, however my wrist is throbbing from the 75 rows (plus two tinked) that were knit today.
...don't let the little gurl get sick - she has dark circles under her eyes but otherwise is good.
...don't let me get sick. I have a cold, but I don't care, I must go to work.
...can the housework fairy drop in, just for a day - the dishes they drive me crazy and I really hate to clean my kitchen. I only need her for two hours - oh please, I'll be ever so good.
...deliver my special order for my SP11 and coffee swap fast (stupid me finally figured out that the one little thing she really wanted was right in front of me all along and ordered it. (Would have ordered it earlier, but for some reason Joann's doesn't ship to Canada). SUCKS. They have the lace blocking needles on sale and have no way to get there this month. Now that I think of it - it's there loss - I would have spent over $50 there, but now they don't get my pennies.
... let the little gurl sleep until 5:45 am instead of 4:45 am. It's no wonder I have a cold.
In other news, I have learned the difference between tinking and frogging. I frog lots of things (likely ILG #1) and i have only just realized that I tink all the time. On ILG #2, for example, I carefully tinked back two rows and saved the sock. On my SOTS (currently on a long time out) I tink back only as far as necessary and then resume.
One confusion - is tinking the same as undoing just the one or two stitches to the point of an error and then carefully reworking those two stitches up - I mean 4 or 5 rows of this, but only taking out the stitches with the error. I find myself doing this a lot. I only take out rows, if well the majority of the row is the problem.
Furthermore, I need to switch to a large needle project. My wrists are screaming - I have to finish the ILG, but then I think I will cast on for a hat or scarf, or put the knitting aside in favour of some special crafting for my swap and secret pals. I also need to get my camera working again. I'm sorry SP11, I never posted for you and I meant to show off my sock yarn stash (I have a tote just for it) and ....
I'm going to go put away the cooked pumpkin, find a spot for the laundry on my bed, take some drugs and go to sleep.
I AM GOING TO WORK TOMORROW. (oh please)

Spots, Pox and Viruses

So it is not the chicken pox (figured that one out myself), the measles - thought maybe, nor were they caused by a bug. The Best diagnosis the doctor could give was 'Virus' and must play it's course. I think Robyn's little guy was diagnosed with something like that too. Of course, stupid me asks: "So she can go to school tomorrow (oh please please please say yes)? and the answer: "I would keep her home another day." Don't get me wrong, I love the gurlz, but when you are home with two NOT sick children and you have the head cold, you really really really want to send them away. So the pox were not bugs and have been dubbed Pollie pox (from Rollie Pollie Ollie), and I don't get to go to work tomorrow.
However I have
a) washed 6 or so loads of laundry (there is still one in the washer, but it rained, so the dryer had to do some work),
b) one sinkful of dishes (yup the ones from last night - another sinkful soaked all day and the clean ones from yesterday got put away),
c) cleaned and rearranged my room (not completed yet, but the dust was getting to me),
d) turned the heel on my swap sock and have to find her measurements as just tried it on my little foot and it is almost toe ready,
e) bought some groceries (including delicious Hazelnut Cream coffee & Chocolate cereal for adults) and vegetables
f) patroned Home Depot for some of the stuff for fixing the house.
A fairly successful day. I think I need to do about 5 more rows before the toe and maybe I can finish the sock tonight. Then of course I have about 180 rows to do on my stole.
Greatest accomplishment - did not consume any alcohol in the care of my children and did not lock them in any room.
I love being a mom.
Of course, if the little gurl shows up with these Pollie Pox in the next 24 hours, I will not be responsible for my actions. You know that if I were to get them, they would show up on Friday night and be gone by Tuesday morning (Monday is a holiday for me).

A Pox on Monday

The day was grey and drizzley when we started out this morning - I don't care that the sun was up, this savings time or whatever is hell on little gurlz (and their mum) schedules. I was pretty sure I would not be going to work, but ever the optimist, I packed lunch and dressed for success (whatever).
The big gurl showed up with some interesting 'pox' on Sunday at her G-ma's and although her father and I figure a bug got under her shirt, I knew I had to tell the daycare who told me she couldn't stay without a negative diagnosis and that was that. I'm no fool so I dropped the little gurl at daycare (she got the immunization) and headed to my favourite walk-in clinic. After a 20 minute wait - we were in and out within 10 minutes, we still didn't have a diagnosis and she had to stay home for two days regardless, to verify what exactly she has. As of 7:40 pm, she still had only 17 'pox' and they have not done more than begin to fade - I'm still blaming the bug that crawled up her shirt (i don't know for certain that she was bit, however on Saturday as we drove to get her sister she started crying and pulling at her chest and her shirt and saying it hurt and... however the pox are in 5 different areas, so we must be cautious)
So we are home and I have managed to
1. Clean the gurlz room - furniture moved and rearranged and stuff tossed and laundry neatened.
2. Read 2 books (7 if we count the 'short' stories of last night that are actually full length 'harlequin').
3. Break my no shopping at Wal-Mart rule - twice (Saturday and today)
4. Spoil my poxy child with a cute play craft (just in case it is actually the pox and we are stuck home even longer)
5. Wash one load of laundry - and it is still waiting to come out of the washer.
6. Fill the sink with clean dishwater and ... let the dishes soak.
7. Start the gusset on the big gurlz stripey socks - while waiting for the clinic to actually open.
8. Clean up the rotten pumpkin and some of the recycling.
9. Snuggle my little gurl to sleep (either she's getting the pox or she just has bad gas - really hoping it's the latter)
10. I need to turn the heel on my swap partner's sock and then go to bed.
Of course, i also should wash the sink full of dishes, hang the laundry and clean a little more, but I will likely only manage to brush my teeth and fall into bed.
Unfortunately, cleaning brings out the worst in my dust allergies and I am not feeling well either.
I hope and pray that the pox are bugs and I can go back to work on Wednesday.

Coffee Talk: Topic One

When did you first start drinking coffee? (tasted as I child and still recall making my Dad and his accountant Instant that stood their hair on end)
What age were you? Was it about the caffeine, or do you love the taste and smell? Tell us how your passion began

Honestly - I was about 20 and working as a waitress/hostess/banquet server. I needed a pick me up some mornings (cause at that age you while away the evening hours after work dancing and drinking non coffee). I can even recall my first year at university (prior to this) telling someone that coffee was disgusting and I would never become a drinker of it and why is there only 'coffee hour' and not hot chocolate or tea... But at work, it was the only 'free' hot drink and when you are there greeting people as the door opens and closes, you kind of start. It was not about the caffeine because I had a very low tolerance and I usually had decaf, but it was about the flavour. I got to the point, when I knew that the pot was off and new brewing was required. Then I had one of Starbucks specialty coffees and it was all over. Also, if we were out for dinner with others, I would order the flavoured dessert coffee, and suddenly I was a coffee drinker.

I have proven to myself a number of times that I can do without the caffeine(stopping cold turkey or drinking decaf, but I always miss my coffee and tea just doesn't do it for me anymore.

Happy November 1st and I won!!!!!

It is a great day whooeee. Okay it was hohum nasty female issues day until about 5 minutes ago, when I found out I won on the Winter Wonderland Coffee Swap. First of all I love coffee and then there is this great swap starting today and then I go over read the stuff and there is my name as a WINNER!!!
November is going to be awesome!!!!
plus those church books have left the building and there are only 2 little details must finish up for them!!!
The dishes can wait, the laundry can wait and life will go on!!! I won!!

Please be advised that I am super excited and not poking at anyone who may not have won.

Some things ...

... are impossible to work on.
Tomorrow, the guy who is taking over the church books from me will be here at 8:00 ish and they are a mess. i don't even care - the work I spent over 3 hours doing in September in order to prepare a financial statement was not backed up on my disc and therefore I can either redo it or say *&$#%&* and just give him what is there.
I am very excited as I managed to put the borders on the charity quilt and I feel, considering that 6 or so different people, all with different sewing styles, have worked on it, it looks really good. Hopefully the rest think so to.
Knitting - I am loving my I love Gansey, but just so worried my swap partner won't. Confidence is a hard thing for me especially when it involves doing something that the other person also has the ability to do. Arrgghh.
Big gurlz socks and the secret stole are on hiatus as the quilt and the swap socks were priorities. The church books, well hopefully Gordon wants to work through them with me - he is retired so he has a little more time too! I've paid everything except the visiting pastors, cause I still don't know what or when they preached. Must remember that for tomorrow.
Halloween was fun - little gurl was a cute elephant (did not wear the 'head') and big gurl was a unicorn for trick or treating (same head deal). Little gurl's dad joined us and this was good as we walked over to Don and Diane's (the long way) and then had to walk back. Lots of goodies in the other room. Not even interested right now, but hey there's always tomorrow.
At work, we are in the midst of a book sale for our annual GCWCC (charity) campaign. I am the committee chair and actually feel pretty good about it. So today I got to work early and tomorrow I will go later (maybe work on the paperwork that I am not doing now).
Friday night, Shannon and her gurls are coming for a sleep over - here's hoping that the sewer doesn't decide to cause problems this time around!!! Shannon and I want to knit together, so that should be fun.
Sunday we have lunch at Grandma's as big gurl's dad is around.
Maybe Monday I can work at our life being back to normal?!?!?

Long Weekend?

Not in days but in hours. I mean, when you wake up feeling a little tired, but sure, you slept late and then glance at the clock and it is not even 7:00 am. Yuck. And what is it about a house of gurlz, that means if Mom is PMSing, then everyone is?
The dishes war was almost one, however there are new ones again so round 3 is already in the loss.
On the knitting front? Big gurl's socks are just under 3 inches in - magic loop method, two at a time. BUT unless some miraculous time shows up, they will not be completed for my October SAM4 socks. Oh well. The stole is at row 220 and I have charts to row 330. So, I am a little behind, however my goal is to only be on the last hint when a new hint is released, so I have to do 40 rows before Friday morning. I can do 20 (approximately) an evening (but nothing else gets done). The Harvest Sock, I Love Gansey is a gorgeous pattern, but the yarn and I are not getting along, so I may have to put everything else on hold while I finish it. The only other WIPs are the baby blanket and sweater that never were given to little gurl, the Moeibus head scarf and Sock #2 for Mom, however it is not started so I just have one single sock going on.
On the yarn front. I tried. But when it is grumpy Saturday and you arrive at the yarn store to discover it is 50-60% off everything, you look around. I have new yarn - some for my swap partner (cause you can buy more when it is on sale) and some (LOTS) for me. Just need some time.
The CRACKs in the house have been evaluated by contractor Keith and we have decided to repair and patch, and see what happens over the winter. So, my next day off (Nov 12th) will be spent fixing around the house.
No knitting was done Sunday, however some scrapbook paper destashing and some quilt planning went on along with major tidy clean in living room and some dinner with friends.
Must go now as it is 7:41 am and the big gurl is still asleep, the little gurl smells and I must get us all dressed and out of the house by 8:15 am at the latest or we will be late.
Major goal this week - GET THE CHURCH STUFF ORGANIZED, PACKED UP AND DELIVERED TO NEW TREASURER.
(but crafting must still occur)

P.S. On Saturday evening, big gurl and I did some card making/embossing stuff. I know why I enjoy doing this, and once the 'room' gets organized, will be able to pull out the stuff to do an occasional item. Have big plans for a handmade gift for my SP and swap partner, but not sure when the time will appear. of course if I hadn't spent a half hour just thinking about it, but actually did something I would already be started now wouldn't I?!?!?!?!?

Have a wonderful day!!

Winter Wonderland Coffee Swap

OH MY! Link to it here if you want to join
Thank you SP!
I am in on this in a big way.

Here is my Questionnaire:

Coffee
What are your favorite kinds of coffee?
I love dark roast coffee. Melitta and Van Houtten

Do you prefer whole bean or ground coffee?
Although I prefer whole bean, I do not have a coffee grinder(looking for one in that new 'kitchen red' to match my coffee maker) so ground will have to do.

This time of year, there are often Holiday Blends available, and many flavored coffees - do you drink flavored coffee?
YES

Do you enjoy special blends?
YES

How do you take your coffee?
I take milk and sometimes whipped cream on top with sugar. Cream is taken when it is the only choice.

Decaf?
I love a nice flavored decaf in late afternoon and evenings.

Do you prefer drinking from a nice thick mug, or a matched cup and saucer?
Generally I drink coffee from a nice thick mug. When I have company, I will put out the matching cups and saucers.

Winter and Holidays - PLEASE be descriptive! Your pal will need this information to be sure to put together a package you will enjoy!
What is your favorite part of Winter?
I love snow. Watching it fall, romping in it, and taking the kids for a walk.

Do you celebrate a holiday in December, and if so, which holiday?
Christmas with a tree.

Would you enjoy items related to the holiday, or would you prefer a Winter themed package?
I prefer a more Winter Theme, however we have and collect miniature ornaments and Angels.

Do you wear scarves? Mittens? Hats?
Yes to all the above.

What is your favorite holiday or winter treat?
Baileys laced coffee or hot chocolate with fresh baked cookies or cake.

Please share a favorite Winter or Holiday memory.
My favourite holiday memory was making a Snowman in the back yard with the gurls last winter. They were so helpful and he stayed for some time.

Yarn and Crafting
Do you Knit or Crochet?
I do both.

For how long?
20 plus years

Do you like wooden, metal, or plastic needles\hooks? Circular or straight?
I work with all of the above but the plastic hooks are slowly being replaced. I love the circs and DPN more than the straights.

What sort of projects do you enjoy making?
I prefer smaller projects like socks, hats, mitts as they don't take quite as long.

What are your favorite types of yarn to work with?
2 years ago I would never have said this, but primarily wool or wool cotton blends.

Do you spin or dye?
No

Do you do other crafts such as scrapbooking or needlepoint or anything else? Yes, cross stitch and sewing and pretend to do scrapbooking.

General

When is your birthday? December 2

Do you have any children? Yes - 2 girls

What are your favorite colors? Blues and Greens

Do you have any allergies? the furry kind - cats.

100 posts - and some rules for me

This would have happened a lot sooner if I didn't have to go to work or parent or pay bills or sleep or eat or anything.
It's an interesting point in my life. (my computer is reading 4:56 pm and I just put the gurlz to bed and dinner was over and hour ago and - guess we are on Alberta time?)

What has been happening?
Thursday night, I turned off the computer to go to sleep and remembered the parcel that was in the mail. Because we had company coming for dinner, I just carried everything inside and started dinner. Did I wait until morning to open it? NOPE
Thank you SP. I have Scarf Style from Interweave Press. 3, maybe 7 projects picked out already. There is some gorgeous Knit Pick - just a minute must go find it and feel/I mean properly describe it for you.
ah hem: It is Knit Picks Shimmer, 70% Baby Alpaca, 30% Silk, in Turquoise Splendor. Gorgeous light to dark turquoise all in 2 skeins. I'm thinking perhaps a Scarf Style pattern or there are a couple cute ones in the Holiday Gifts by Interweave Knits. Glad I only picked up one as I see my pal picked one up for herself. You should see the bear in it - OI is it ever cute.
AH hem. Yes yes, back to the treasures from my SP. A gorgeous (handmade?) bracelet in gold and red hues. loverly!!!! Cookie Cutters in pumpkin and bat shapes (with stencil guides for decorating) which found themselves put to excellent use Saturday morning, when I realized the cake from Thursday was at the house we visited on Friday and not available for the company coming that morning. So I quick baked some cookies. (note - the dough for these cookies was patiently chilling out in the freezer since around April 29th, when it was found to be unnecessary for big gurlz birthday). There was some delightful Lindt Milk Chocolate for me (still is about half - what control) and Kinder Eggs for the gurlz (also still one each somewhere, however have not actually seen them so they may be no more).
Thank you so much my SP! You've really made me feel special.
And then..
On Friday, it was very foggy and gray on the way to work. I was feeling a little bit gray myself, until I saw the slice of a rainbow in the sky. In the midst of the gray and heavy clouds, there was just an inch sized slice of rainbow (bigger likely up close, but in my world it covered about and inch). Lifted me out of the doldrums a little.
I have knitted a little. The stole is at row 130 - I have to check now...no it is 143 - so I think it goes to 168 - 24 more rows. Not bad - I plan to get at least 10? done tonight.
Big gurl's socks are both cast on, but there is a bit of a design element issue as when i use provisional cast on, sometimes it creates "live loops" and sometimes just an edge to knit into. The first sock had the latter - and it looks like a seam line - lovely. The second has the former and it also looks lovely. one is ready to begin the gusset and the other is about an inch away. What to do ? I'm bettin I frog the first and go for the invisible seam (problem is it's all in the way I pick up my first row of loops into the chain and I never remember which is which. These socks may be returning to time out.
I finished my first ever pair of Fetchings (knitty) and I am disappointed. I have small hands so I only picked up one ball of the yarn and it was enough to make them , however I (for my personal brain wellbeing) need another inch of cable at the fingers. However I have about a yard of yarn left. But - the store where big gurl left her sweater The Needle Emporium has that colour (if not the dye lot) and I have to go back there sometime.
Mom's first sock is done and the second is waiting for the needle that the big gurls socks are on. (they are on two circs as I catch the second (or maybe the first) up to the other and then I will just use the extra long circ to do both at once).
I threw out the vest UFO from some time ago. I would have frogged but it was not froggable and kept catching and pulling. The yarn may turn into something from Scarf Style as I have enough.
The baby blanket and sweater that was supposed to be for little gurl are (hopefully) going to be completed for grandchild #10 for my parents (NO - NOT ME). The kids already going to get shafted as there is a big brother and sister involved. The Moeibus head scarf is progressing in inches - slow going as it it just a 2 by 2 rib with icord edging. Not the most exciting of works.
Big Gurl's quilt - well, I have to clean my room up again in order to work on it and there are a couple of other things pressing in too.
My Harvest Sock Swap - Love the I love Gansey pattern. however feeling a little meh about the colour as it is more oceanic than harvestic and so... however, maybe I could include some autumnal yarn in the package. I had brought a deep red that was kind of apple harvesty, however the yarn doesn't knit well (for me) to the pattern, so it is not suitable.
Anything else on the needles - not yet, but need to make a chapeau for the little gurl as she does not have a mommy made one and the big gurl could use a poncho with a little more warmth to it. This may be sewn rather than knitted.
What did I do today?
I went to a Craft show and sale. Wow, there is some lovely stuff out there. The one display of handknits was gorgeous - I felt guilty for not buying anything, but the one thing that really bowled me over was not my size. I got some construction paper and felt cutouts - fairytale for the paper and Christmas for the felt. Hopefully a good rainy day filler. A pair of earrings for Mom (I think) and some delightful dip mix that was just delicious.
Then I made some more awesome tomato sauce (from Finny Knits) and here we are.
What needs to be done?
1. The church books - organize and bind them up with a pretty bow for the new guy. Should be doing it now, however i have this thing about working on Sundays.
2. Clean house - not the sweep and dust but the throw things out and give away and organize.
3. Finish hint 2 and 3 of the stole.
4. Get that I love Gansey sock figured out. If the current one on the needles is not going to work, put it aside and try one of the other yarns. Denise shouldn't have to wait forever.
5. Fix up the bathroom, front wall, front yard and get the air conditioner out of the window... I may have to take a day or two off of work in order to really get at it.
6. Buy the new mattress and dishwasher. Just do it.
7. Stop spending money on yarn until next year. (only exception would be - tee hee already - the yarn for the Fetchings and if buying any for SP or swap pals and the Robyn's Nest month by month kits) and.... Okay - I solemnly swear to try really really really really really hard to use stash yarn (oh also doesn't count Lucky Lurker Club - already paid for; and Yarn Pirate - that is the sock club).
8. Make the Christmas gifts this year. (or use stuff purchased over the last 20 years to create gift packages or crafts for others to do).
9. Be a better more patient mother to my beautiful gurlz.

Well, I had best get busy cause there are a lot of things to be done.
may just pop over to a couple of favourite shops - I mean the yarn moratorium doesn't start until tomorrow ... right?

edited to add - I don't have the patience to figure out my camera right now. I have promised my Harvest Swap pal some pics of the yarn and socks, so I have to do it this week, but the pics are just not coming along. i promise lots of pics once I get everything back to normal.
I did figure out my screen so I don't have to scroll sideways through the blogs in order to read.
Baby Steps for me when it comes to technology.

99 posts about me on the blog...

Wow!
Good thing I didn't stick to my post a day rule.
What have I learned in the last 99 posts and my venturing through blogland?
1. I am not alone - there are other mothers out there who feel the same way I do. Here is a prime example of what I mean. Mother who knows it all
2. Frogging is good and shows I learn from my mistakes. Even if I should have frogged the Firestarter right away instead of turning the heel and an inch.
3. A good yarn stash is essential for a balanced knitting/crochet life. Even if when you look at it for yarn it never has the right one for the pattern you want to do now.
4. WHO CARES WHAT OTHERS THINK!!!!! If you like the yarn and the pattern and you are making it for you, you can make purple Beanis or pigeon coloured socks. If it satisfies something within you creative genius, that is all that matters.
5. You can knit at home alone and still be linked to so many people. This is the ultimate. The Secret of the Stole Kal (for which hint 2 has stalled around row 115 as I now have the computer again); SAM4 well can 2 complete socks that don't match count - wait a minute don't even have that for October; Harvest Sock Swap - no need to worry about SSS as you only have to knit one (unless of course the pattern you give is also the pattern you receive - not my problem this time around!) and SP11 - I have the best pal and she seems to know just what to say and send to make my day and knowing, that something I sent someone, also makes their day is awesome.
6. It's okay to change the pattern or yarn or needles. Everyone has different tensions (for crafting and other things) and I have to figure out what works for me.
7. Just because someone has 3 or more books out for sale, does not mean that they don't still have to pay bills or fix problems or fly regular class or ... They are just people doing their job - which involves being paid for something they love!!
8. The housework does not get done if you knit for the evening or the weekend. This used to happen to me when I went to the library on Thursday night and checked out 4 new release novels with a 7 day loan rule and read them before the weekend was over. There is no housework fairy - or she doesn't live in our house.
9. Go to sleep when you are tired because a tired knitter makes mistakes and then has to fix them later (or refuses stubbornly to go to bed until the mistakes are fixed and causes all sorts of other problems).

That's all I have for now. The gurlz are well and I am well and now I must quick make some icing and then off to bed (cause the dishes don't run away if you don't wash them).

Thanks for all your support and comments and well, must find something special for someone.

Weeklong Absence

I am sorry I have not been here.
Actually that is not true, I have been here, but my #*&$%^&%$$$#$#% computer has not.
It is now fixed but lovely patterns and pictures and emails and links and...
You name it, it has departed for the nether land of computer world.
Arrgghh.
Knitting has been good - I am 1/3 of the way into hint 2 of the Secret of the Stole, 2/3 of the way through a pair of Fetchings and well, let's just say I have 3 separate socks on the needles, two of which have been to the frogpond and Firestarters, that will be visiting the frogpond.
I need to find my sites and my background settings and my brain and my ...
We are well and breathing, if not slightly stressed.
Does anyone know what website it was that gave a Nunavit windows setting?

Thanksgiving

I am thankful for my family - and the new baby to come. Congrats middle brother and wife!!
I am thankful for wonderful gurlz. Especially like when they sleep on demand. Not happening right now.
I am thankful for Dad #1 and Dad #2. They both made extra time for their gurl this weekend.
I am thankful that hangovers don't last that long. You do eventually recover.
I am thankful that tomorrow I can go back to work and life can get back to normal.
(also thanks for dishwashers - not mine - and washing machines and driers and cars and ...)
Have a wonderful week.


ps - I am also thankful that frogging does not usually destroy the yarn.

Progress?

So the sock for me but maybe my sister has a turned heel and fits. I need to work about an inch or so more to ensure it will go up and over properly. If if does not, then I will frog, cause it won't fit sis either.

The SOTS starts tomorrow and I think I am going swatchless. I may force myself to complete the swatch before starting, but maybe not.

The pattern for my harvest sock swap partner is picked and I am just deciding on the right solid yarn - The Sweet Shop has some nice solids and semi solids that are appealing to me.

My baby will be 2 tomorrow. She is so beautiful - and crazy. Let me see if I can find a baby pic of her

Must go put the gurlz to bed. So I can have a few moments of silence. This pic was taken January 29(i think) 2006 after her baptism. Beautiful isn't she?

2nd pair of socks syndrome

So I am trying to make myself a second pair of socks.
The first try - vanilla with Marks & Katten, went to Mel (okay they are still here, but they are for Mel).
The 2nd try - own pattern, Skinny Duet, frogged, 3 times and currently on time out.
The 3rd try - Super Soxx, turned into a fingerless mitt and then was frogged as too tight.
The 4th try - Monkey socks in Yarn Oddity - too small and frogged (will happen someday)
The 5th try - going to Mom as she loves them and they fit her perfectly.
The 6th try - Firestarter in Pomtini. Unintentional editing occurred but given my interpretation of the measurements, appeared fine as my foot is much smaller than the measurements given (or was but is now a cm longer>!>!>!>). Anyways, I am plodding on until I turn the heel. I will see the size then - if it is just too snug - my sister will get them, if it is a lot too snug, they will be frogged. stupid that as there is only one that has been worked on and I still have another to go. partly due to the previous post about my mother and the fact that I am a starter of some things and perhaps not always completed (dishes, men, knitting, sewing, relationships) you get my drift.
Why not frog on Sunday? well I am afraid the yarn will not frog well which will mean a ruined skein and I have to frog the little gurlz sock so another frogging will feel like a flogging and I may give up knitting entirely to sew and crochet.
On a fun note, I bought the Simply Knitting due to the delightful knitted Noah's Ark by Alan Dart. Will I knit it? I don't know, I have a delightful Crocheted Noah's Ark Pattern and a knitted Creche (or is it crochet) that have never been started either.
So, if anyone out there has a desire for this magazine and the Noah's Ark Pattern, please let me know. There is a lovely stole in it that I would like to try, however, I have the SOTS to do.
Oh and I think I am close to 100 posts so - on my 100th post there will be something going on. What I don't know, cause I don't kno-ow much, but I know I love you-ou and that may be-e-e-e all I ne-ed to know! (couldn't resist that).
Off to bed with me now...

Just let it be...

I love my Mom.
(obviously - she is getting a second pair of socks before I do - maybe)
But, when she says you should really talk to PE (brother's MIL) about socks, she really doesn't get it. It's not that I can't do it, it's just I haven't found the perfect pattern.
I'm trying to make socks for the big gurl (and then the little gurl). She picked out Regia, 4ply crazy color in a rainbow of colours (mostly pink and purple). I tried the toe up formula, but the needles are wrong. Well, in order to avoid the provisional cast on I have to use a circ and I don't have a circ in that size. Mom sees that as well maybe you can't do it.
So I compromised, I cast on my Firestarter socks, ordered some yarn for my SP11 (and myself) wishlisted some other yarn and joined the Six Sox Kal (more for my autumn sock swap) but also cause I really love the I Love Gansey sock. I'm seeing my ILG in blue - cherry tree hill blue, but am also going to find a solid blue for my ASS (hmm not a good abbreviation) WELL DOH it is a HARVEST Sock Swap. HSS much better(couldn't take out the other though).
Must organize yarn and needles better so would know if had the right ones or not.

(from the to do list of previous post - 3 loads of laundry done, 3 quilt blocks total done, firestarter started, #11, first half of #4, and well working on #2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 and 13).

There is always tomorrow.

Gene disorders

You know how it is when you're doing something and it's like a flashback to your mother or someone else related to you?
Been having a few of those as I work on the quilt blocks - finished the ones for the gift quilt and one star block for the gurlz quilt. Even got going on the second block, but was a little weary.
Now am a lot weary and going to bed.
My to do list:
1. Finish Mom's second pair of socks.
2. Redo swatch for secret of the stole (1 week away)
3. Start Firestarter sock
4. Frog and work on big gurlz sock
5. Do at least 2 more quilt blocks
6. Fix front stairs with new wood and figure out a mounting board so can work around wonky front yard.
7. Finish the week of dishes.
8. Clean the house
9. Church books
10. Laundry
11. Something with the big gurl for sure this weekend
12. Figure out little gurl'z birthday (oct 5th)
13. Everything else.

Nothing too major eh.

My Latent perfectionism Gene

Yes I have one. There are times when it goes on hiatus for weeks even months at a time for some things and is always there for others.
This week it has been my pull balls - OI that sounds fun - they weren't quite right so I redid 4.
Then it was the socks for Mom - the ribbing is wonky and my cast off sucks - frogging in the future. The swatch for Secret of the Stole same thing. Frogged twice now in fact (2nd time due to needles) Anyone need a 120 cm ++ size 4 Lace Addi? Will exchange for a 2 foot one.
Then there is the sewing. I am working on a quilt - the cut squares and all that jazz. 5 times I took the seam out and tried again. I am going to try by hand tomorrow. I'm betting less than half the people notice.
It must be understood that this Gene is very apparent in my crafting life (hence so many ufo's from crafts of all kinds).
Less apparent in my housework and yardwork and laundry work and ...
To reassure you, my work life is the perfect when necessary otherwise do what has to be done. (I sure hope that's the right kind of attitude for work - seems to be working for me so far)
Of course the expectation from others in the way of perfectionism knows no boundaries - hence the reason for my single status.
I'm working on it.
of note- my grammar and spelling is usually right up there for the correct and proper, but I feel the need to create words that describe a situation perfectly - in one work. Therefore I give you Perfectionism.
2 of note - I really wanted to use the word latent today - perhaps something to do with my latent sex drive.
3 of note - I think this word means what I think it means but if not, please advise and I will use/create a new word.

Wonderful Weekend

This weekend was great.
Started with a quick trip to the post office for a package!
My secret pal sent us goodies!!!

Hooray - it was all I could do to not rip the package open while the car was filled with gas and the big gurl could scarcely contain her excitement.
I'm not sure, but I think I fed them dinner first and then we opened her up.

The two packages with sticky notes were labelled big gurl and little gurl. My pals 2 sons picked out the items.

Thanks so much SP!!!! you spoiled us and have promised even more.

Running list here:

Real Fruit Gummies Orchard
Real Fruit Gummies Wild Creatures
Ganong Fruitfull Real Fruit Jellies

The newspaper was also in the mail, but not quite as well received. The little gurl thought it should be included!
Handmade sock needle case in beautiful blues - silk I think. Gorgeous print with ribbon ties.

Pony Pearl needles - 2.25 mm, 15 cm long in pale blue
Cherry Tree Hill Sock Yarn - Turquoise - Supersock Solids
Gorgeous notebook - for writing all the details down as I go.
Stitch markers - made by her?

A keychain Ty Beanie Bear - pink for big gurl


A keychain Ty Beanie Monkey - pink for little gurl.
Aren't they just precious - I think they both slept with them that night!
All wrapped in beautiful pink paper.
Hooray

going to bed now and will continue with pictures tomorrow.

New information:
My Mom and niece came down for the weekend - they arrived late Friday night (9:00 pm is late when you are 6 and 4 years old). My SIL is known for whipping things together at the last minute.
It was a great weekend - even though Mom has claimed my Rainbow Opal socks - she LOVED her NEEDY socks - only took them off because she was hot. I am trying to think positively because she has spared me the frogging to 4 rows before the heel when I was only 3 inches from the cuff.
I wound the Merino lace for my stole - 1375 yards - just a couple of hours (while the pomtini took 7 hours). Mom helped with the second portion of the skein and it took no time.
We went to market, did laundry, visited, sewed a beautiful liner for the Squatty Sidekick (and gifted it to the niece without taking pictures), fixed up 4 separate dressup clothes for the big gurl, finally found the boxes of too big clothes - a new pair of runners are in order for the little gurl. (this was on both Saturday and Sunday)
On Saturday, after supper (all market fresh goodness) Mom and I shoveled some dirt (and rocks and clay) to make the front step a little more even. We just managed not to swing the shovel at the head of the annoying man next door - he LEANED on the fence and watched us bending and lifting. Stupid comments from him too. I was running back and forth with the pails of dirt and Mom came back to where I was and she was STEAMING mad. (which really relieved me as I thought I was being nasty and vindictive in praying he would fall down and not be able to get up.)
We managed to calm down and finish off before the mosquitoes bit us apart.
Sunday, both Mom and I got riled again at church as I was expected to babysit my little gurl and one other child (who always goes to Sunday School partway). I'm sorry to say they kind of sealed the deal on us leaving the church. I will do my best to go to church every Sunday somewhere (July and every other week recently not withstanding) but it can be exhausting when it messes up the little gurl's sleep schedule and the big gurl has acted out every week (yesterday being the exception).
All in all a great weekend and then Monday arrived!
Cheerrio!!!!