Goodies From South Africa

Froggie and I had a "girl's day out" today. It's been a while and we both needed it bad. lol
We hit a few thrift stores and of course the LYS, Hobby Lobby and Michael's....you have to do some yarn shopping. It's was a very nice day and I wish we could do it more often. After picking up the kids from school...I came home to find that I had received a package from my wonderful friend Shirley in South Africa. They don't get Peaches & Cream or Sugar & Cream over there so Froggie and I had sent her a package with lots of cotton and a few other little extras. This is what I got from Shirl today.....

an awesome package of so many different yarns. I can't even begin to describe my excitement when I opened this box. There was more of the pretty fuzzies, some ribbon type yarn and lots of wools and the softest acrylics and....I haven't done inventory yet to let you know what they all are. I was too excited. She also included some candy (chocolate and Jelly Tots) which have been mostly devoured already by the kids. lol Jelly Tots were a huge hit! I did manage to get a little of the chocolate myself.

She also sent me this scarf and glove set that she knit herself. They're fingerless gloves and they're so soft and warm. I am actually looking forward to getting out in the morning so I can try them out. The picture really doesn't do it justice...they're gorgeous!

Now I'm off to listen to the CD she included with some music from South Africa.

Dankie, Shirl! You really made my day.
Lief jou baie!!!

Must Keep Knitting Contest Goodies

Today I received my prize from Kate's blog . They're pretty green stitch markers called "Green With Envy'. Thanks, Kate. I love the pretty, girly stitch markers.

Up close and personal....not the best photo but you get the general idea. Take a second and check out Kate's Etsy Shop ...she has more pretty stitch markers and some lovely yarn that I think I need ....one is called Lotus and another is Froggy.

Okay, gotta get back to my knitting...another free pattern by the talented Kristen Patay. You can find it on her blog...Be My Dishcloth . It's perfect for Valentine's Day.

Scarf Finished And Baby News

I finished a scarf yesterday. It's made from yarn sent by my wonderful friend, Shirley, in South Africa. It's an eyelash type yarn and I was surprised to find that I really like it. It's so soft and it's actually pretty warm. The yarn is called Vere which, in Afrikaans, means feathers. I will have to get a better photo of the finished scarf so you can get the full effect. Right now, Ms Thang has it on and it's looking like I'm not getting it back. Oh well, I have enough Vere to make another one.

I have to say a big CONGRATS!!!!! to my dear friend Cat. A lot of you know her already. She found out today that she is going to be a Grandma!! Woo Hoo!! I'm so excited for her. She didn't think she would see this day. "Mommy To Be" was told she could not conceive so please keep Mommy and "Baby To Be" in your prayers. And stop by and give Cat a big "Congrats" on her wonderful news....I know it will make her day! *Like the baby news hasn't already done that*

Finished My KAL

I finished my KAL for Rachel's Knitting Room and I love this design. It still needs to be blocked but it's almost as pretty anyway. Mine was done in Sugar & Cream...Hot Pink. I have to say that I think Rachel has the best dishcloth designs around. This lady has amazing talent. I just have to show it to my son and see if he approves and wants to give it to his girlfriend for Valentine's Day. I think she'd like it but it's up to him.

There was a lot of frost on the ground this morning so when I got home from taking the kids to school, I decided to snap a few photos. This just happened to be one of my favorites...not sure why....I just like the angle I think. It's also the one I posted on my 365 blog. My photos are starting to become almost as bad an obsession as my knitting. lol

Playing Catch Up

I haven't felt too great this weekend and so I've gotten a bit behind with my knitting. This is my progress on the KAL in Rachel's Knitting Room. I love the pattern and I'm looking forward to finishing this one. I think it will be a Valentine gift for my oldest son's girlfriend. I think she'll like it. I used Sugar & Cream in Hot Pink....love this color.

I thought I would tease you just a little with my duckie. I still don't have eyes on yet and I don't want to post a full photo until he has them. Eyes and a little and he's good to go....he's a real cutie if I say so myself.


Okay, just one more...he wanted to show you some leg. He's flirty that way. Hey, you know what they say about a duck with big feet, right? :P

My Epitaph

Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com

I saw this on Christy's blog and had to go find out what mine would say.

Other Uses For Popcorn Tins

First of all, I have to admit that I totally stole this idea from Froggie . These were the Christmas popcorn tins at Walmart. They were on the markdown aisle for less than $2.oo and once you remove the bag of popcorn inside, they make awesome little knitting tins. I need to add a bit of velcro on the sides to hold the little wicker top on...it tends to slide a bit. Not a bad little "bag" for 2 bucks. Thanks, Froggie.

I almost finished knitting all the pieces for my little duck. Just have a foot and the beak left to knit and then put it all together and put the stuffing inside. I still have plans for the teddy bear just haven't started it yet. The first attempt got sent to the frog pond. Now if I can just get good at seaming...I think might actually enjoy knitting toys.

The weather man is running his mouth again. We're watching for some sleet and possibly a little snow tonight. Let's hope he's consistent and wrong...as usual. I don't want any more nasty sleet.
We brought in the wood for the fireplace just in case. Better safe than sorry.

Decisions....

Tonight, I took some time to do a little yarn shopping with my gift certificate. Yeah, it was hard to decide....Laura has beautiful hand-painted yarn and the colors...omg...I wanted one of everything! I decided on some gorgeous Superwash Wool in the color Sinful and the cutest little Mini Sock Blocker Keychain . This is going to be my first sock. I thought it would be a good first project to get of feel of knitting socks and then I'd have a cute little keychain to show everyone that I love to knit.
The Unique Sheep is a place you really should check out. She has yarn, roving, nice patterns and the kits available also. I'll post photos of the goodies as soon as I get them.

OMG...OMG...I WON!!

We had a little contest in our Hot Cocoa Swap. It basically went like this:
The Rules:

-Must be made from marshmallows and toothpicks.
-Must have some sort of yarn content.
-Must represent a living creature (mammal or reptile or alien)

Other than that, make your sculpture however you like. Could be a family. Could be one solo dude. Get creative, get imaginative.

I borrowed one my son's Tech Decks and this is what I came up with. I thought he was really cute but I really didn't expect to win. But, we won!!! I can't believe it!!

I won an awesome gift certificate to The Unique Sheep . I cannot wait to go shopping...I don't know how I will ever decide but it will be fun trying.

*doing the happy dance*

Who Makes My Day

As bloggers, we just love the comments and I don't know about the rest of you but it's a pretty dang good feeling to get one of these little blog awards. Today, I'm having a pretty good day because two of my blogger friends have listed me as one of the blogs that inspire them. How cool is that! Thanks to Shorty and Christy ,
you two really made me feel special. When I started my blog, I only expected family and friends would read it (they have to...or at least lie and say they did) but I've been amazed at how many great friends I've found through blogging. So, I want to pass on the love to some of the bloggers who bring me happiness and inspiration. Here goes....

Christy - A fellow knitter in Georgia who is a fun read. She makes laugh and isn't afraid to admit when she does something totally silly. I do these things too....I just don't tell y'all about it. lol

Shorty - This is absolutely one of the sweetest knitters you will ever meet.

Crafty Cat - Cat has become a wonderful friend. She is one of the most giving people I have ever met. She does not hesitate to help whenever you need it. I can't say enough good things about her.

Froggie - Obviously...my best friend and partner in crime. I taught this girl to knit and she has turned out to be extremely talented at designing a dishcloth. She has some awesome freebies...check them out.

Hakucho - Another very sweet and encouraging knitter and crocheter (I'm so jealous). She has some wonderful designs on her blog as well. I love to keep up with what she's got OTN. She is so creative.

Aunt Kathy - I don't even know where to start. She is so sweet! Even on her bad days, she somehow manages to see the light at the end of the tunnel. She is most definitely an inspiring person. She's also still running a contest so go check her out.

MissMandyGirl - Mandy is multi-talented. She knits, does scrapbooking and makes absolutely beautiful hand-made cards. She has the cutest little girls ever and also has a blog with recipes. I just love this girl.

Briley - He is proof that...not only do men knit but they're pretty darn good at it too. He has some awesome original designs (crochet as well) and he now spins and dyes too. This is THE nicest guy you will ever meet.

Tea - A fellow Southern girl...YAY! She also designs (love the Picot Swirl...it's one of my favorites) and her blog is always a good read. She can crochet...she can sew...she can cook! She has a great sense of humor.

Isabelle - I could never keep up with this lady! She's a very talented designer...from dishcloths to socks...she can do it all. She takes amazing photographs and I always look forward to seeing what takes next. She even took the time to help me learn something new.

I could probably go on for days naming people who inspire me and bring me happiness but I have to stop at 10. :( These are just a few of the bloggers/knitters/friends that regularly bring a smile to my face.



Now here's rules:
Give the award to up to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel so happy about Blogland! Let them know by posting a comment on their blog so that they can pass it on. Beware! You may get the award several times!

Hot Cocoa Topic Of The Week

This weeks topic:

What is the most 'random' memory you have from your childhood? I know it's not knitting content, but I love learning about the little quirks and interesting things about people!


Thinking about this, the first memory that came to mind was...

When I was a little girl, my sister and I would go stay with our great aunt(who everyone called Grandmother) in a very small rural town near here. They lived in a small little house that looked as though it came straight out of old western. It was a wood frame house with no paint with an old barn next to it. They had three gardens all around the house and the biggest cornfield. Well, it looked huge to us little girls. lol
We would play in the corn field and all through the woods surrounding the house (without fear) until it got dark out.
They had no toilet in the house so we would have to go outside and use the outhouse. They did get a toilet indoors eventually but we thought it was fun to use the outhouse. I don't ever remember them having a TV in the house but I think they did at some point. You only watched it at certain times. We spent time on the porch with the old dog and my great uncle (Daddy Bill) listening to ball games on the radio. I wasn't much into sports but I liked to hang around with him.
We helped in the garden, set the table and cleaned up after eating. I don't think we ever realized we were working. It was so different from what we were used to that we saw it all as fun.
I can even remember when you wanted to use the old wall phone with the rotary dial that you had to check to see if anyone else in the area was on the phone first. They had the party line then. Anyone and everyone could listen to your conversation and know all your business. lol
It was almost like going back in time. They've both since passed away and I miss them so much. I wish that my kids could have had this experience. It's has remained a cherished memory for me and I know my sister as well. We always looked forward to summer vacation from school because we knew where we going for a week or two...maybe more.

Peek A Blue...Freebie

I have another free pattern for you. My nephew is a big fan of the blue dog and I thought he would enjoy this one. I hope you do too.

Peek A Blue
©Copyright 2008
Designed by Melanie Thompson
US Size 6 needle 100 % Cotton Yarn
Test Knit by Shirley Smith

Cast on 45 stitches

Rows 1-4: Knit
Row 5 & All Odd Rows: Knit
Row 6: K3, P39, K3
Row 8: K3, P39, K3
Row 10: K3, P2, K35, P2, K3
Row 12: K3, P4, (K1, P2) 3X, K1, P4, K3, P4, (K1, P2) 3X, K1, P4, K3
Row 14: K3, P2, K1, P2, K1, P6, K1, P5, K1, P1, K1, P5, K1, P6, K1, P2, K1, P2, K3
Row 16: K3, P3, K1, P2, K6, P3, K4, P1, K4, P3, K6, P2, K1, P3, K3
Row 18: K3, P4, K1, P2, K1, P7, K1, P2, K1, P1, K1, P2, K1, P7, K1, P2, K1, P4, K3
Row 20: K3, P4, K1, P2, (K1, P7) 3X, K1, P1, K1, P5, K3
Row 22: K3, P5, K1, P2, K1, P6, K1, P7, K1, P6, K1, P2, K1, P5, K3
Row 24: K3, P6, K1, P2, K1, P6, K1, P5, K1, P6, K1, P3, K1, P5, K3
Row 26: K3, P6, K1, P3, K1, P6, K5, P6, K1, P3, K1, P6, K3
Row 28: K3, P7, K1, P3, K1, P15, K1, P4, K1, P6, K3
Row 30: K3, P7, K1, P4, K1, P13, K1, P4, K1, P7, K3
Row 32: K3, P7, K1, P5, K1, P11, K1, P5, K1, P7, K3
Row 34: K3, P2, K1, P5, K1, P5, K1, P2, K2, P1, K2, P2, K1, P5, K1, P8, K3
Row 36: K3, P3, K1, P4, K1, P5, K1, P2, K2, P1, K2, P2, K1, P5, K1, P8, K3
Row 38: K3, P4, K1, P4, K1, P4, K1, P9, K1, P4, K1, P6, K1, P2, K3
Row 40: K3, P5, K1, P3, K1, P4, K1, P9, K1, P4, K1, P5, K1, P3, K3
Row 42: K3, P6, K1, P3, K1, P3, K1, P9, (K1, P4) 3X, K3
Row 44: K3, P7, K1, P3, K1, P1, K1, P2, K2, P3, K2, P2, K1, P3, K1, P3, K1 P5, K3
Row 46: K3, P8, K1, P3, K1, P2, K1, P2, K3, P2, K1, P2, K1, P1, K1, P3, K1, P6, K3
Row 48: K3, P9, K1, P4, K1, P9, K1, P2, K1, P3, K1, P7, K3
Row 50: K3, P10, K1, P2, K1, P11, K1, P4, K1, P8, K3
Row 52: K3, P11, K2, P13, K1, P2, K1, P9, K3
Row 54: K3, P27, K2, P10, K3
Row 55: Knit
Row 56: K3, P39, K3
Row 57: Knit
Row 58: K3, P39, K3
Row 59-63: Knit

Salmon Patties and No More Snow. :(

Well, the second snow didn't materialize. This is what we're left with....that and lots more rain and some sleet mixed in. Oh well, I guess we should be happy that we got any.

I'm posting the recipe for Salmon Patties for the folks who were interested in how we make these things around this house.

Salmon Patties

1 can Salmon
1 egg
1/2 cup of flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/3 cup minced onions (optional)

Drain the salmon and remove the bones and skin. Reserve 2 tablespoons of liquid. In a bowl, combine salmon, egg and onions...Stir in flour. Combine baking powder and the reserved liquid into the salmon mixture. Form into small patties and fry in hot oil for about 5 minutes.

Once you get past the yucky part of removing the skin and bones, it's smooth sailing. I hate that part. The kitties outside are always happy to take that yucky stuff off your hands though. lol

A teddy bear note....
I finally just picked a simple pattern and cast on last night. I hope it turns out well. So far, so good. I will post photos when I get him finished. (If he isn't the most ugly bear ever that is)

Now, off the the knitting and pouting cuz we didn't get more snow. :(

TGIF

Just a couple more snow photos for MissMandyGirl. She missed out on the snow (Sorry) and likes the snow pictures.
I'm not sure which one of the cats outside left these tracks...there are about 3 or 4 running around out there.

We are waiting for more to come sometime in the morning. We'll see when we wake up.

Can you believe I'm still trying to get the perfect Blah Buster Buddy for my Cocoa Swap partner? I really need to get busy and make a decison. I've got several patterns that I'm thinking over. I hope to figure it out tonight and get it cast on. I think another dive in the yarn stash may help to inspire me.

I'm having some Chicken Pot Pie tonight. I had a couple of "takers" on the salmon patties...how bout the Pie? It's almost home-made. It's pretty darn good if I say so myself...I made it so I have to say that. Okay...I'm off to chow down and then do a little yarn diving.

Hope you're all warm and cozy and knitting away.
Hugs!

Here Today....Gone Tomorrow

This is about the extent of our snow from last night. For us, this was a lot of snow. I let the kids stay out late playing in it...making tiny snowmen and throwing snowballs. I can't remember the last time it was pure snow so I thought they should get out there while they had the chance.

This is our big baby, Kane. He was totally unimpressed with all the drama going on. He probably thought I had lost my mind out taking photos in the dark. He's really so much bigger than he looks in this photo but he's a just a big old slobbery baby.

There's very little snow left on the ground now but the good news is that they are calling for more by the weekend. The kids got an extra day off from school so as far as they're concerned...Mission Accomplished.

A Winter Weather Update!

OMG! Can you believe it?! It is actually snowing here! Absolute pure, white, fluffy, no ice included snow. My kids are going insane with joy. We stopped what we were doing and grabbed some shoes and out the door we went. Yeah, I grabbed my camera on my way. I mean this just happen here and I had to get some proof. Did you know that it's hard for an amateur to take photos of snow in the dark? I only have a digital camera...not one of those nice fancy, make all the necessary adjustments kinda cameras. I think I got some pretty decent shots considering.
The picture above is my pecan tree which, btw, put off an enormous amount of pecans this year.

This is my little shrub by the front steps. I was just so excited to see the snow that I was taking pictures of anything and everything. Luckily, I won't share them all and bore you to tears. I just had to share the joy.

Big thanks to Brian and Wendy who promised me they would send me snow. It's here!!!

Hot Cocoa Swap...Topic Of The Week #2

Now that we're in the thick of 'Winter'... has your knitting changed to match the season? Are you moving on from dishcloths, and tank tops to afghans, hats and mittens? Has your yarn changed from silk or cotton to wool, superwash or heavier cottons?


For me, I think my projects have changed somewhat to match the season. I have plans to make a scarf, a shawl and hopefully some mittens. I already have a pair of slippers done and will be making more of those. I find that I'm not making as many dishcloths but those are one project that I will always make.

My yarn doesn't really change. I prefer natural fibers and pretty much stick with the cottons and wool or wool blends. I have recently found an acrylic that doesn't make me gag. lol It's the only new fiber that has found it's way in.

I think it's only natural to begin thinking of warmer projects when it's so cold outside. If I didn't have so many things going on already, I have some bulky wool blend that I would knitting up now into a thick, warm afghan.


Speaking of weather...it's a nippy 27 degrees F here this morning and there's still no sign of the white stuff. Last report says that rain will be moving in tonight and by tomorrow morning we will have sleet. I will be waiting on those snow deliveries from my friends who have too much already and have offered to send some my way. Send BIG boxes...we've got to cover about an acre of land here folks. Oh and if you could put a rush on that stuff...my kids are driving me insane. :P Is it snowing yet? Is it snowing yet? ...........

Still waiting....

We're still waiting on that snow. There's been no sign of the fluff yet and I'm not totally convinced there will be. I've spent the afternoon trying to explain to my youngest that...
just because the weatherman says chance of snow does not mean that there will be any snow.
She isn't liking my explanation at all.

I have not given up on my Isabeau Purse. She is patiently waiting for me to get off my behind and cut out the lining already. I will. I promise. Sometime soon, this weekend or maybe next week. When I get my teddy bear issues sorted out...this will become an FO. Really, it will.

This is a short post since, for once, it has been a quiet and somewhat uneventful day. YAY!
Now, I have a plate of Southern goodness waiting and I am starving. Anybody care for some mashed potatoes, turnip greens, salmon patties and biscuits? This is "good eating". :)

Snow? Here? Yeah, right...

So the weatherman thinks it's quite amusing to tease us with threats of snow. Like that's ever gonna happen! See this photo, this is what we get. If anything, the snow will start to fall and the kids get all excited...."YAY NO SCHOOL!!"....and it's so pretty and...
Wait, what's that noise? Is that sleet? You got it. The snow will soon turn to ice and then everything is all frozen over and you can't go anywhere cuz around here people don't know how to drive in it and it totally sucks. For once, if we could just have some pure, white, fluffy snow then that would be incredible. It's not gonna happen. It's not that I don't like snow...we just don't get it here.

I'm still wringing my hair into knots over this dang teddy bear. I just can't find the pattern that says, "Knit me. I'm the one!" I want to use cotton for this bear since it can be washed if he gets dirty. I can't believe that a bear is stressing me out so much. I have started and frogged and started and frogged....it's just not working for me. I think I will step. away. from. the. bear for a moment and start fresh another day.

I hope you're all having better luck than I am.

Oh yeah, after the science project, we ate the chips...they were yummy! :)

Another Use For Potato Chips...

Another use for potato chips.....

A science project. Leave it to my youngest...Ms Thang...to pick a project involving chips. She would live off of Nacho Cheese Doritos if I let her. This is so not my idea of a great way to spend your Sunday but it had to be done. It's pretty basic as far as science projects go but she did a good job with it I think. I did help with the typing and the grammar but overall she "done good".
The title was "Grease Is The Word" and it was to determine if all chips have the same amount of grease. We concluded that baked chips contain less grease than regular or reduced fat chips...if any of you are interested.

These two photos were taken yesterday evening. I had to make a trip to the grocery store and the sky was just unbelievable. The photos are nice but I just wish you could have been there. It was so much more dramatic in person. The first photo is the sky on the way TO the store.


This is what we saw on the way back home. It was just a quick run so there wasn't a large amount of time that passed since we headed up the road. On the way home, it had turned a most vivid shade of pink. The pictures really don't capture the colors true to life. That and....
I was driving and just holding the camera up and shooting. No aiming, no planning....I had to watch the road. I got a lot of shots of "what the heck is that?" in between the decent shots.
Not too bad for "blind" photographing.

I haven't done much knitting today. I'm sorting through some patterns for the perfect teddy bear. (Read that as....the easiest teddy bear pattern around!) I need to make one for a friend soon and it will be my first knitted toy. My wonderful friend, Shirls, sent me a couple that I think I may try. Wish me luck!

Hope you all had a great, relaxing weekend. Hugs!

*Shirls, lief jou baie, my lieftste vriendin!*

One More Down....

Another DROPS headband is done for Christmas 2008 gifting. I used the yarn leftover from the Pocketbook Slippers. It may even be a set since either pattern is so easy and quick to knit.
Thanks to "Ms Thang" for being my model. She's the only one around here who will patiently pose for me with my FO's.

This is the top view...not completely happy with the striping again...but I don't think the giftee is going to mind. As long as it does it's job, she will be happy.

I'm hoping to get around to cutting the lining for my Isabeau Purse tomorrow so I can get that finished too. Then, I will have finished everything on my January list.

I got this yummy yarn this past week at my LYS. I almost forgot to take a photo before I had the hank all wound into a ball. It's a beautiful hand dyed yarn made by Araucania called Aysen.


Here it is all wound up and ready for knitting. It's going to be a scarf for me. Yeah...ME. I just haven't decided on a pattern yet. I am open to suggestions....what do you think?

Contest

Okay, so I know my chances of winning greatly diminish with every new comment (like I would even win anyway) but you gotta go check out mariknits . She's having a contest to celebrate her 100th post. The prize is some beautiful Berroco Ultra Alpaca. All you have to do is leave a comment. And if you mention I sent you...I get an extra entry. (please, please...)

What I'm Made Of....

The Recipe For Melanie

3 parts Fearlessness 2 parts Desire 1 part Compassion Splash of Warmth Chug!

What's the Recipe for Your Personality?

I found this on Shorty's blog and thought I'd see what my recipe is.

Pocketbook Slippers Finished

It's cold and rainy and yucky and storms are heading this way. We had one last night that shook the house. The weather is so weird these days. Some days, it's warm enough for shorts...just crazy. I'm just hoping the weatherman is wrong as usual because those storms they're talking about are nasty ones!

I finished my pocketbook slippers which will go into my Christmas 2008 gifts box. These will be for my aunt. I'm pretty sure there will be a few more pairs of these done before the holiday rolls around again. Now, you all know how I feel about acrylic yarn and I never in a million years thought I would ever say this but.....I really enjoyed knitting with this yarn AND...it's acrylic! Yep, I said it. I know...I'm shocked, too. It's called I Love This Yarn and it's by Hobby Lobby if I'm not mistaken. The color is Naturals Stripe. It is surprisingly soft and great to knit with. I have another DROPS headband OTN in the leftovers.


Sorry for the dark photo...I just couldn't seem to get a good one. This is how they look when you put them on. They are a little big on me but I have very narrow feet. I think they're going to fit her just fine though. They stretch a good bit and would probably fit several different size feet. I wear a women's 6 1/2 (sometimes a 7) and even though they are a little loose...I think I could still wear them comfortably.

Hope everyone is well and staying warm AND knitting!
Hugs!

Feeling Kinda Toasty....

I just had to share a few photos with you. My girl, Diva, has one little sweater...it fits and I do mean fits. She isn't too happy putting it on or taking it off since it's pretty snug...it's always a struggle. Well, while out yesterday with Froggie (we had a girl's day out), I found her a sweater that fits great! It was so easy to get on and off and she didn't seem to mind at all. I hate that acrylic was all they had but it will have to do for now. I wish we could have gotten a pink one since pink IS her color but there wasn't much choice in the extra-small size. She must like it because she did a little modeling.

Most of the time, I can't get her to sit still for photos but she did yesterday. I held her while Froggie did the photography. Maybe I should do it this way every time. She seemed more comfortable sitting with me than she does when I'm the one with the camera. I do still want to try and knit her a sweater myself but I was feeling guilty since I haven't had time yet. It's been pretty cold and since she's maybe 3 lbs. soaking wet with a towel on, she really needs the extra warmth.

That's all the cute we have for today...be back later with more knitting.

Mmmm...Hot Cocoa Topic Of The Week

Wow, this really took some time! I hope I didn't get my answers all jumbled up...after a while they all started running together. lol



1. Who's favorite animal is an Otter? Anne K
2. Name someone who prefers whipped cream with their hot cocoa. Liz M
3. Find 3 people who live outside of the United States. Alex E, Sharon V and Clarissa R
4. Name a fan of Harry Potter. Devin H
5. Name someone who crochets. Mary B 6. Name someone who DOES NOT have a healthy supply of notions. Emma G
7. Name someone who has NOT put up their questionnaire yet (just put a date with your answer in case they put it up after seeing their name listed somewhere ;-) ) Nancy C 01/08
8. Who likes to have Kahlua, Baileys, or Peppermint Schnapps in their cocoa?Rachel C, Paula B-E
9. Name someone who knits fingerless gloves as a 'quick knit' Rhoda G
10.Name someone who's looking forward to gardening this spring. Maria E
11.Who's favorite way to drink cocoa is with a gorgeous Frenchman, while overlooking the eiffel tower from a French Cafe? (I'm right there with you... well at the table next to yours!) Kris L
12.Name someone who's favorite animal is NOT a dog or house cat Rachel C
13. Name someone who's favorite treat is NOT chocolate. Tricia R
14. Who plays Candyland? Criquette
15. Name someone who DOESN'T get the winter blahs Lora B

Hot Cocoa Questionairre

I thought I had missed out on the Hot Cocoa Swap but they needed a few more so I'm in! YAY!
Here is my questionaire:


Cocoa:
1. What is your favorite way to drink cocoa? Prepared with milk? Water? from home made recipe or store bought?, In a tea cup, or big mug? Milk, definitely. Home made is always best but I will drink store bought and I love a big mug.
2. Marshmallows or whipped cream? I love the whipped cream but I admit...I usually use the marshmallows.

Yarn/Knitting/Crochet
1. What is your favorite type of yarn? In what colors? I love any natural fibers and earth tones are my absolute favorite but I do love my pinks and bright yellow.
2. Do you knit or crochet (or both)? I knit...am trying desperately to learn to crochet but it just hasn't clicked with me yet.
3. What are your favorite type of needles, would you like to try something new? My Knitpicks Options are my favorite with my bamboo a close second. I would love to try some of the Rosewood needles.
4. Do you have a healthy supply of notions? I have a decent supply but you just can't have too many...can you?
5. What one thing do you keep thinking you need to buy for your knitting habit (outside of yarn)? I need a nice bag to carry my projects in and a ball winder.
6. What is your favorite 'quick knit/crochet' pattern (quick gratification) Dishcloths....lots of dishcloths

Miscellaneous
1. What is your favorite thing to do in the Winter? Love to have a fire going in the fireplace and of course, knit!
2. What is your favorite animal? My little chihuahua.
3. Do you get the 'winter blahs'? No, I actually enjoy the winter.
4. What is your favorite way to beat the blahs? Again, the fireplace and watching a good movie.
5. What is the thing you are most looking forward to this spring? Seeing all my plants come back to life and the kids can get out and play.
6. What are your favorite treat? Ferrero Rocher (with hazelnuts) YUM!
7. What is your favorite board game? Not much of a board gamer...love the Sudoku puzzles and crosswords.
8. Do you have any children (furry or human)? 4 kids (2 boys & 2 girls), 1 chihuahua (Diva), 1 black lab (Kane), 1 dwarf hamster (Hamikin Tubewalker) and 1 turtle (Franklin)
9. Do you have any allergies or special considerations you partner should know about? No allergies.

I Am Camel.

I saw this on Cat's blog and thought I'd try it out and see what fiber I am. I'm so glad it didn't say acrylic. Yuck! Give it a try...it seems to be pretty accurate...Potter Craft News .


Camel – Consistent and inflexible
“Camel has very little elasticity, and it doesn’t felt easily. The fiber also doesn’t bleach easily, so you’ll normally find it used in yarns whose color either masks or enhances the natural tan shade of the camel fiber.” –The Knitter’s Book of Yarn

Camels are frank and straightforward in their manner. You know what you want and, while you are extremely polite and tactful, you have no difficulty being firm and definite. You are not very flexible or adaptable; you like things to be a certain way.

Icelandic Shawl Kit

Today I remembered to take a photo of my kit for the Icelandic Shawl . This was my first order with Sarah's Yarns and I am really pleased with them. The service is great and the shipping was so fast. I'm really looking forward to this KAL. I am planning on keeping this shawl for myself but you know how my plans go...someone always ends up taking whatever I knit.

I had made the wrapper cloth for my mail carrier and it was well received. She left a very nice "Thank You" card with the mail saying she didn't want to use it and mess it up. Then, yesterday, when she dropped off my books...she told me she loved it and asked if I sold them. I told her I would be happy to make her some more. This began an "argument" about whether or not she would be paying for them. I tried to explain to her that I have a ridiculous stash of cotton yarn that needs to be knitted up. Anyway, we agreed to argue about that more when I get her some cloths finished. lol I was happy just to know that someone appreciated and enjoyed a cloth that I made.

I am making progress on the Isabeau Purse...not as much as I would like...but progress still. I am already thinking once I get one finished and understand the construction of the whole thing...I want to make some in a bigger size. They are so cute. Shelly made a couple for her daughters and they turned out great. She made a longer strap so they can carry them as a shoulder bag rather than the small, short handle purse. I may try that as well...the small handles just aren't as convenient for me.

Hope you're all staying warm and dry...so many storms all over. If anyone is getting too much snow, feel free to send us some. We never get any here.

*to my SA friends....Liefde en drukkies.*

I've Got Mail!

I love my mail lady...not just because she brought me these book today...but it sure didn't hurt her at all. I think I'm developing as bad an addiction to knitting books as my addiction to yarn. These three arrived today and so far, my favorite of the three is the 101 Designer one-skein Wonders. My Christmas gift knitting is going to shift gears because of this book. There are so many patterns in this book that I have to try. This is not one of those books you want soooo bad and then you get it and there's little to nothing inside that you would actually want to knit. This one is full of great stuff! And...one skein....how great is that?! For now, I am again ignoring that sock knitting urge...I just don't have the patience for it right now. The Interweave Knits book is very nice...quite a few in there I would like to try too.

I got my yarn kit from Sarah's Yarns for the Icelandic Shawl. I am so very glad to see that it isn't that tiny lace weight yarn. I'm really looking forward to that KAL which starts in February. If anyone wants to join us, we'd love to have you. It's a great group. If you'd like, I could even send you an invite. Just leave me a comment with your email address and it will be on it's way.
Why didn't I think to take a photo of my kit? DUH! Maybe I can get that up later for you.

Oh, almost forgot....my awesome brother-in-law (Hey, Barry!) and Major Cuteness (my nephew, Killian) got me a little after Christmas present. I had heard lots of talk about this but haven't seen them anywhere. They did a little shopping in Greenville and found me the Knitting Pattern A Day Calendar. There are so many cute patterns in this thing. I need more hours! All this knitting requires time....can we do something please!? Yeah, I forgot to take a picture of that one too. :P

Okay, enough babbling for one day...gotta get back to that purse. It's just hard to stay focused with all these awesome patterns laying around.

We Can Wear Our Jammies All Day!

I just found out from Cat that Sunday, January the 6th is International Pajama Day. At least for one day, it's perfectly fine to run around all day long in your jammies. If anyone says anything, just direct them to the website...we have proof. So, I will most definitely be joining Cat for this fun day....got my jammies, my French Vanilla Cappuccino, and my knitting all lined up and ready to go. I might just add a little fire in the fireplace to make it even more special. lol

On another note, I did do a little yarn shopping today but not a lot. I got a skein of acrylic for making some pocketbook slippers and another skein of Wool Ease from Lion Brand to try out with the Isabeau Purse . I going to finish the one in cotton but I also want to try this out and see how it works up with the Wool Ease. Then I will have another excuse to go shopping for some fabric to line the purses. :)

It's only been three days but so far I have managed to keep up my posting here and on my photo blog. Yeah, two 365 Projects at one time...I must be crazy. It won't be the first time someone has told me that. lol

Okay, back to knitting....get those jammies washed up and ready. Sunday is only 3 days away.
You don't have to wear them to church but I do expect you to get them on as soon as you get home. Come on now, what's a pajama party without your friends?

Back To Normal!

Well, tomorrow, life will finally get back to normal. The kids go back to school and everything goes back to the way it's supposed to be. Boy, am I relieved! That sounds awful but a Mom needs some Mommy time.

I am moving on to project #2 on my Christmas list. It's the Isabeau Purse from Chez Plum. I am going to use my stash of variegated cotton on this one. Aunt Kathy has a finished one on her blog. It's so cute and it's the prize for this week on her blog contest. Check out her blog...she's having a contest all month long with prizes weekly. She's a super sweet lady and I think you'll enjoy the visit. (Hey, Aunt Kathy!)

Okay, got my pattern printed out and now I need to get to work. Hope everyone's New Year is starting out well and continues to just get better.

Hugs (Drukkies!) to everyone!

NaPloBoMo

Okay, as if I don't have enough to do already...I took the plunge and joined NaPloBoMo. The idea is to blog every day for the next year. I was a little late joining but you can still join now if you're interested. I've listed the guidelines below so you can decide. If this sounds like fun to you, just go here to sign up.


- Blog everyday for 365 days.

- Feb.29th is a Free Day and will be the Blog365 day of rest!
(Thanks Leap Year)

- You do not HAVE to post to the same blog as long as you post everyday.

- Internet not working? Write down your post and post it once you are back online.

- Computer Broken? Again, write it down and post it when you get access to a computer.

- A post is a post, not all of them have to be in writing. Photos, videos, whatever, they're all considered content.

- Just have fun, because that's the whole point!

A New Title For A New Year

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Her Most Noble Lady Lilknitter the Innocent of West Smeesborough Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

I found this on the Knitasaur's blog and thought it was pretty cool. Go check it out and get your new title for the new year.