2 Sticks and a String

2011-02-07T15:28:00.001-05:00

A NEW Family Portrait:

A Collection of Three Christmas Stockings

2011-02-07T15:18:00.003-05:00

A NEW Baby's Chirstmas Stocking:

2011-02-07T15:17:00.002-05:00

A NEW Mom's Christmas Stocking:

2011-02-07T15:15:00.002-05:00

A NEW Dad's Christmas Stocking:

SUPPORT THE TROOPS!

2009-10-16T18:45:00.001-05:00

REMEMBER....

2009-09-11T08:55:00.001-05:00

The tragedy of nine years ago, the day we all lost our innocence, is firmly etched in my memory.

On September 11, 2001, hundreds of the bravest of New York City's Fire Department answered the call. Three hundred and forty three of them never returned.

But the numbers tell only a fraction of the story. The faces and names say far more. A father and son. A chaplain. A commander. A rookie. Strangers to most of those they passed on Sept. 11, but heroes to them all.

For thousands of horrified office workers who fled the terrorist attacks that fateful morning, the most remarkable sight during their descent was the wave of determined firefighters advancing toward the burning sky. They were going to a place where everyone was damn well trying to get out of. And, if you would have asked anyone of them, 'What are you doing this for?' The reply would have been the same, 'This is my job.'"

Yeah, it was their job and one that they didn't take lightly. They all have pride in what they do. They're firemen! And yes, when people are running from a burning building, they are the ones running into it. However, if anyone ever paid them any mind, or congratulated them for their heroism, each and every one would just say, "This is my job. I was just doing something that anyone of my brother's would have done."

One particular "hero" who epitomizes the essence of a fireman is Christopher Blackwell. Chris was a member of Rescue 3, an elite company in the Bronx that specializes in technical rescues. They are the fireman's fireman. Chris was always one to shy away from publicity or fame. He'd do "his job" and then pack it all in before the company would 10-2 (return to quarters).

One particular recollection of Chris was told by one of his "brothers" at his funeral. It was a story of when Rescue 3 had responded after a jet, after take-off from Laguardia Airport, crashed into the East River. Chris and his brothers from Rescue 3 were busy, tending to the all the passengers. They placed themselves in a perilous situation as they worked in an airplane that was partially submerged and could sink further at any moment. They worked for hours until all survivors were freed from the wreckage. The last passenger to be removed was an elderly woman who couldn't thank Chris and the others enough. All Chris said to her, "Don't thank me. Just remember... it was the firemen who got you out!".

Up on the land, the press had convened. Lights and cameras were everywhere. There were some "emergency" workers there being interviewed. The members of Rescue 3 by-passed all the commotion, and headed back to their rig to head back to quarters. The glory was not for them.

Back at the firehouse, they were watching the news and all came around when they noticed that the last woman they removed was being interviewed. The camera showed her on a gurney surrounded by NYC's finest. The reporter asked her what she had thought of all the brave rescuer's, pointing to the policemen who were basking in the spotlight. She asked him, "What do you mean? It was the firemen...the firemen that got me out!"

To this day, that story still brings a smile to my face. Most people don't realize that being a fireman not only what they do; its who they are. And.. they wouldn't change their lot in life for anything. They will forever walk proud.

Chris Blackwell, 42 years old, was a 20-year veteran of the FDNY with 12 of those years proudly served in "Big Blue". Chris was a fire department medal winner of several occasions and a paramedic on the side. Chris leaves behind his wife Jane and daughters Alex and Sam and son Ryan.

Remember Chris and the other members of Rescue 3 - Firefighters Thomas Foley, Thomas Gambino Jr., Raymond Meisenheimer, Donald Regan, Gerard Schrang, Joseph Spor and covering Captain Brian Hickey.

Remember the 343!

God Bless them all.

May We Never Forget....

2009-09-10T16:02:00.001-05:00

For the 343 of FDNY who lost their lives on 09/11/2001 - May we never forget

Saying Good-bye

2009-08-28T10:48:00.001-05:00

My son has once again been deployed, this time to Afghanistan. We, as a family, spent a few days together before he left. This time is the hardest, as in addition to leaving saying good-bye to his wife, he is also leaving his infant son.

He will be missing quite a few firsts this year as the lil one gets his first tooth, takes his first step, and says Da-Da when he wakes up at night.

He had whispered a few words to his son before he left, "Be sure to be good for your Mommy. Remember that I love you. And Please... don't grow too big while I'm away".

Please, keep my son, as well as all members of the military who are sacrificing so much to defend our freedom, in your prayers. Pray for their safe return. Pray for a time when their duty will no longer be needed.

Sew Camp and other musings....

2009-08-03T11:54:00.001-05:00

Dee arrived with Emma. We had two weeks to get ready for the Christening, so we went hats and horns in sewing projects. Sew Camp 2009 opens!

Since Dee had managed to complete her Civil War Love Letters quilt, We booked some time on a long arm quilter and came up with a wonderful pattern for it. There is a "medallion" of sort in the middle of each of the 160+ squares, surrounded by a flowing border on all four sides. She took it home, all ready to bind. :D for her! :( for me as I am still only about 1/3 the way through my squares.

Dee managed to get me started/organized with my Dear Jane. I had been hemming and hawing and doing anything BUT.. in avoidance of the applique work that needed to be done. I have never done any and was in fear. She gave me a few options on different methods and within a day, I had already managed to get a few of the squares done. All the fabric is all cut out and my binder is full of squared just ready to be worked on.

I did manage to finish a "Big Shirt", complete with french seams. I did this in the loudest colors imaginable in a beach umbrella print. It will be so suitable as a beach cover-up, which I desperately needed.

Another project is the "Snippets" pillow that I am making for my bed. It has three applique flowers on it, so.. it's been regaled to the wip pile until I decide to set some time for hand sewing. hmmm...

Carol managed to make a "Magic Pocketbook" with three covers!

My contribution to the Sew Camp was a lesson on free motion quilting, and of course, Dee took to like a a fish to water. Was I to expect anything less?

With only 3 days until the Christening, Sew Camp closed shop. We had so much cooking, cleaning, organizing to do for the ensuing masses that were scheduled to arrive. We did mange to get it all done and done well...

And.. here is a picture of the family at my first grandson's christening.

The gown was designed and hand-made by Dee, in loving memory of Robert T Delaney, Sr for all his great-grandchildren. Nicholas is the first to wear it and I hope that there will be so many more of his cousins to wear it in the future...

Civil War Love Letters Quilt I

2009-03-28T10:31:00.001-05:00

Since having been bitten by the quilting bug (yeah... thanks Dee :D), I became quite intrigued by this quilting phenomenon called "Dear Jane". Asking Dee, "Well, whattya think?". She laughed. However, a few months went past and I think the lure of Jane had captured her too! She started to amassing a collection of almost 90 different reproduction fabrics in a slew of colors, and she's still looking for more. Yep.. she was hooked!

Dee thought that it might be a good idea to "warm up" to Jane by doing the Civil War Love Letters Quilt by Rosemary Youngs.

It has a compilation of 121 blocks that are 6". Much tamer than Jane with its 225 blocks 4", made up of 5,403 pieces! Dee is graciously sharing her stash and providing me with some long distance instructions. The journey has begun. I have completed 20 of the blocks so far, and I thought that I'd share.

1: Enthusiasm

3: Healthful Region

5: Sorrows of War

7: Severe Fighting

9: No Serious Fighting

10: Pleasant Campaign

11: March to Winters Quarters

12: The Fall of Richmond

15: Tents of the Enemy

29: Steamboats

53: Last Letter Home

58: Florida Has Seceded

61: Will Virginia Secede?

74: Another Death

80: Changing Conditions

95: History of Travels

98: Lonesome Place

104: Privilege of Communication

112: Numerous Excuses

119: Angel Visits

Only 101 to go! ;D

International Scarf Exchange 7

2009-02-10T13:24:00.001-05:00

I am participating in the International Scarf Exchange 7. Out of all the swaps that I do, this one has got to be my most favorite and one that I hold near and dear to my heart.

My first one was the ISE2. I had only been knitting a few months, and I was terrified. Terrified of what to give another knitter. This wasn't going to be a loving family member who would oh and ah over just about anything that I made. This was going to another knitter who would be able to see each and every mistake that I made. I looked in awe at all the masterpieces that were being exchanged and just hoped that my endeavor would meet the expectations of its intended recipient.

I love this exchange because it made me spread my wings and try new and different techniques in the quest of the most perfect scarf. It made me venture down that path that I would not have normally go. It also afforded me the opportunity to meet some truly, truly remarkable people, like Debi, who will forever occupy a special place in my heart.

Well, this exchange is winding down and my current project is now winging its way across the US to its new owner. I am hoping that she accepts my gift and recognizes all the hope and good intention that accompany it. It was made with love, and dedicated to the memory of friendship.

Here is Gail (aka Nightsongs)

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Shawl

2008-12-30T15:20:00.004-05:00

To me, the beach has always conjured up the most heartwarming memories. As a child, I always recalled every summer we spent as a family at the Jersey shore. I remember my Dad, and the safeness that I felt as he held me so close as the waves approached. His arms were my haven and never wanted our time together to end.

It was just a short four years ago this Christmas season, just after having relocated to Pawleys Island with my newly-retired husband, that I was diagnosed with cancer. I retreated to the beach, and found comfort in my memories that the sounds and smell of the ocean evoke. I knew then, that being at the beach was exactly where I needed to be. The beach always was, is, and always will be my little bit of heaven right here on earth.

This fall, I was invited to participate in a wonderful knitting opportunity - The Sisterhood of the Traveling Shawl. This is the brainchild of a wonderful woman, Kay Meadors. The idea is that this shawl would travel to a knitter in each of the 50 states, each doing their part, and then passing it on to the next knitter, until it had passed through the hands of 50 remarkable and talented knitters. After the Shawl's journey is complete, it will be raffled off, with the proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

On Christmas eve, the shawl arrived at my home. And could not have thought of any place in the world where I would rather be when I knitted it, other then on my beloved beach...

My contribution to the shawl was done in honor of all cancer survivors, and in loving memory of my father, Robert Delaney. Dad, I miss you so much....

It is now on it's way to another knitter. If you would like to follow the shawl and it's travels around the country, go to the blog and catch its progress. And, most importantly, if you would care to donate to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, as well as have the opportunity to win this shawl, visit the Passionately Pink page.

Baby Cakes!

2008-10-27T09:13:00.001-05:00

The shower was yesterday. My darling DIL was so surprised, which made all the work that went into the shower worth it. Here are photos of the topping to the cake, that was eerily realistic.

Everyone just looooved my Christmas Stockings, and I was finally able to get a "family portrait" to share.

Christmas Stockings - Part II

2008-10-24T10:00:00.001-05:00

I'm just about finished the remaining two Christmas Stockings. All I have to do is line them. Dee, my expert seamstress extraordinare sister, will give me a hand with that.

Here is the one for my most wonderful daughter-in-law...

And here is the one for the baby - patiently awaiting the birth so that I can add the name....

I am hoping that after the shower and things calm down around here, to be able to sit down and get the patterns into some sort of format that I can share.

Dad's First Christmas Stocking

2008-09-29T12:42:00.002-05:00

My son and his wife are expecting their first child, my first grandchild in December. They have been married for 5 1/2 years, and survived 3 deployments (Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan). I could not be more excited about anything.... anything!

I wanted to knit something to commemorate the blessed event, something that would be timeless, forever. I finally decided upon the most perfect item - A Christmas Stocking!

I will be making three - one for Dad, one for Mom and one for Baby - each with varying designs. Every year, as they hang their stocking on the mantle, I will be remembered. And that is so heartwarming.

As I knitted this....

I had tears of joy in my eyes, as I realized - My baby is going to be a Dad!

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Shawl

2008-09-17T17:44:00.001-05:00

I am flattered, beyond words....

Yesterday morning, I was asked to join a group on Ravelry - The Sisterhood of the Traveling Shawl. I will be joined by 49 amazingly, fabulously talented individuals who will be working on a Shawl - together. The shawl will journey across the country, from one knitter to another knitter, until it has been passed to a knitter in every state of our GREAT country. Once its finished, it will be raffled off with the proceeds being donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. You can follow this shawl as it travels at this blog.

Everyone has been impacted by cancer. I am honored to have been asked to represent the State of South Carolina in this momentous endeavor. I am participating in honor of all cancer survivors and dedicating my efforts to the memory of my Dad.

Vista, vista, vista....

2008-09-15T19:24:00.001-05:00

My new laptop arrived today. This beauty is replacing the one that was stolen in Denver. (Did I already say that I hate Denver?)

Brand spanking new. Complete with all the newest bells and whistles, including (shriek) Vista! A friend told me not to this darn thing know that I'm scared, because it can smell fear. (insert evil laugh).

So, it will take me a while until I get accustomed to all the new-fangled icons and gizmos. Wish me luck. I'm going to need it.

2008-08-28T11:00:00.005-05:00

Travel Updates...

Sunday, August 10th - Ah, Denver

N and I "pulled" into Denver yesterday afternoon. We are staying at the Westin in Downtown. It's verrrry nice. :-D His guys start arriving tomorrow, so we will be having almost 48 hours to ourselves. This is my first time that I am really getting to "see" Denver and I am enjoying myself. And.; it's really nice that everything to do and see is within walking distance or a tram ride away.

We began today sharing a crepe at a small sidewalk cafe and then spent the rest of the day walking along the 16th Street Mall from one end to the other. Yes, my feet are killing me! Another quiet dinner tonight with a good bottle of wine!

Friday, August 15th - Rocky Mountain High.

Yep.. Still in Denver!

Ah... toe time!?! Now that is bliss! My last was a few weeks ago. It was the #1 priority on N's list after my arrival. He had been postponing getting his, waiting for me, so that we could go together. Now? Tell me that isn't too sweet! But, as I sit here and gaze upon my scuffed up toes, I know that is time for another. Hmmm... we have Mon and Tues available.

As for knitting? I just completed the Dale of Norway ensemble of a sweater, romper, hat and socks. I substituted Paton's Grace for the Stork, and being an entirely different guage, I had some head scratching to do. I cast on for the size 6 mo, but gauge-wize, it completed as a size 12-18 mo. I still have to get moving on a homecoming outfit. But, being the perpetural Girl Scout that I am, I came prepared. I have enough Stork and Baby Ull to do another 2 outfits, but I am not seeing anything that grabs me. So.. I'm working on a pair of socks.. the ultimate filler. And, I have enough yarn for another 2 pairs!

I am thinking of doing a Christmas stocking. I have been looking at patterns, and nothing has been screaming "knit me". I think that I might just get out some graph paper and begin plotting away.

Thursday, August 21st - Chicago, Chicago....

Yesterday morning began bright and early. Well, it was early, but definitely not bright as our wake-up call came at 3:45 am. We showered, packed and jumped into our seats on the shuttle to the airport at 4:30, Check-in wasn't too eventful and we were at the gate by 5:30 for our 6:30 flight to Chicago.

We are staying at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers on North Water. Our room is at the end of the building, in the curved tower, which affords us a fantastic 180 degree view of the lake, the lighthouse and the river walk. After we checked in, N left to begin his work for the next 5 days and I ambled around the river walk for a little while. When they got back, N and I walked along Michigan Avenue, in search of a barber for him to get his haircut. We were lucky and found this little place on Huron.

Back to the hotel and got ready for dinner. We were to meet S/s in the lobby at 6:30 to go to Ditka's, to join N/M and their wives. Well, we tried... but got delayed. It seems that N was rushing me and we hit the elevator at 6:20. N pushed the button for the lobby, and the car went few seconds, and then seemed to drop... and then we stopped! OMG! Now, I have got be "Queen Phobia". I'm leery of revolving doors, escalators, elevators, heights, and here I am stuck in this elevator somewhere between the 9th and 10th floor! I can feel the panic attack about to emerge; I pulled all the strength that I could muster to hold it at bay. And thank goodness that it was just us and a service guy that had been returning from a call. He had is walky-talky and called for assistance. We had to wait for the Otis people to get there, which would be about 15 minutes. N called S/S in the lobby and told them where we were and perhaps they might want to go ahead and we'll join them later. He also called N/M... who howled in laughter, thinking that N was pulling their legs. Heck, I could have come up with a better joke than that! Well, one hour later.... They finally got the door open on the 10 floor and brought a ladder for us to climb out of the elevator. Trust me, dragging this fat ass though the opening was NOT a pretty sight.

We arrived at Ditka's and everyone was sitting there with their drinks, patiently waiting for us to have dinner. The waitress came to the table and asked, "Would you care for something to drink?"..... OH HELL YEA! Dinner was great, and we even got to meet Ditka himself, who happened to be there.

This morning, N and I shared a beautiful sunrise on the lake, lazing in bed with a pot of coffee. Now that's living! He's off for the day, and this afternoon we have some water cruisey thing planned.

Wednesday, August 27th - Travel update... and btw... Denver Sucks!

Loved Chicago, even with the elevator scare. We had the most beautiful hotel room, I overlooking Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, where I witnessed some fabulous sunrises. It was so convenient to everything.. shopping (Norstroms, Neiman Marcus, Macy's, yadda yadda).. eating (Ditka's, Smith & Wollensky, Rosebud, The Palm, Schula's, yadda yadda)... sightseeing (Navy Pier, Museums, Parks, River Tours, yadda yadda). I even managed to find a LYS. I know.. that's no big surprise!

I arrived back in Denver yesterday at noon. It seems that I made a major oops when I made my reservation. N already had his flight planned, so I tried to get on his same flights. The one leaving? Not a problem. However, for the one returning yesterday? His flight was over $400.00, and a flight leaving 1 hour later was $170.00. No brainer, I picked the hour later one. Or... so I thought. You would think that AA (no.. not Alcoholics Anonymous. But, I would think by this point on my trip, I'm awfully close.) would have all their flights listed chronologically. Nooooo. So, when his flight at 9:05 was listed above my flight at 10:40, I just assumed that mine was 1 hour later. Well, just think of that Odd Couple skit then Felix made the diagram about assumed ..."Makes an ass.." Well, that was me. My flight was not 1 hour later, it was 11 hours earlier! I tried to change it, but at a cost of an additional $420.00, I decided NOT! So, I departed Chicago yesterday morning, arrived in Denver at noon, took the shuttle to the hotel and vegged.... or so I thought!

Now, we have been on the road for just about 1 month, and we have all the stuff that goes along with traveling. But, since we were only going to be in Chicago for 6 days, I only packed 6 days worth of stuff and left all the rest of the stuff in the truck and in the parking lot of the hotel. When I got pack here, I went to my room and dropped my bag and then went to the car to get my laptop. It took a few seconds for it to sink in, as I saw the interior in a shambles with papers and CDs strewn all about.. that the truck was broken into! It seems that they were able to "pop" off the passenger door handle/lock and entered there. Well, between the tinted windows and the sunscreen across the windshield, they had a field day! What was taken? 2 suitcases of clothes, my messenger bag with my laptop/phone accessories/iPod, etc, the Sirius radio, the Garmin, N's cigars, tools, camera. That was all that I could recall off the top of my head. I called N in Chicago and all he could say is "The bastards". I went back into the hotel and the lady at the desk directed me to the Denver PD website to report a crime. As I was completing the form, I started to cry.. and I called N back... crying. He said, "I was wondering when you were going to realize." The entire thing was very traumatic; I felt violated. But what hit me the most.. they took all my knitting stuff - All my yarn, all my needles, and hardest of all - they took all the outfits for the baby that I have been working on for the past month! That was when I lost it. The fruits of my labor are sitting in some dumpster right now! The bastards!

As I was winding down from completing the forms, N called back to inform me that he might not make it here. It seems the FAA computers crashed and flights were being canceled. He'd keep me posted.

All I can say is thank GOD, there is a dinner right next door to the hotel... I went over and ordered a few Margarita's! Trust me.. I needed them!

Well, N arrived not much later than expected, and left the hotel room at 6:30 to go to the Ford dealer to get the door fixed. He doesn't have a Garmin to feed in the address, so he had to do it the old fashioned way... pages and pages of directions via mapquest!

Our plans are up in the air for the next few days. He has a few demos and requests that have come up, but nothing in stone. We were planning on leaving here and heading down to Taos, and then Santa Fe for the weekend. What is definite is a meeting with Santa Fe next Tuesday morning, so who knows where we're heading.

Life is an adventure! And I'm just along for the ride!

Thursday, August 28th - Did I already say that Denver sucks?

Well, let me say it once more... Denver sucks!

N and I spent yesterday playing catch-up. N found a Ford dealer that would be able to repair the passenger handle/lock while he waited. Its not totally done, as the door is scratched and bent where they used some sort of tool to open the door, but it is usable. We had to get our 6 days of dirty clothes washed, as we had no more clothes. Thank goodness that there was a wash & fold place not too far away. Then to an electronic store to buy another GPS. The particular model that we wanted was not available, so we came back to the hotel and purchased it on-line and its being shipped to our hotel in Santa Fe.

N has 2 meetings today, that were scheduled for yesterday, but... This morning, we went down to the lobby at 6:30 for some coffee and then he left for the first of his meetings. Within minutes, he came back into the lobby, threw his hands up in the air and announced that they did it again! This time, through the driver's door. The entire lock/handle mechanism is broken and hanging out. He's heading back to the Ford Dealer, with hopes that they have the parts to repair it!

Thank goodness that our 6 days of CLEAN clothes hadn't been placed in the truck yet! And that we purchased the GPS on-line!

Keep your fingers crossed... I'm hoping to make it out of Denver, alive and without any further scathing, before the end of the day.

Ah, it can only happen to the living!

2008-06-03T09:31:00.004-05:00

Louis Mulkey

1972-2007

It was just about one year ago that this world lost someone truly special - my friend, Louis. He was one of 9 Charleston (SC) Firefighters who perished in a fire last June. Louis had touched so many lives and he is forever in our hearts. ESPN has done a special on Louis and his legacy - the Summerville HS Basketball team. I just wanted to share this with you.

Louis, I am proud to have known you. Proud to have called you a friend. You will be forever missed... and loved...

2008-05-27T17:14:00.002-05:00

WWKIP

On behalf of the South Strand Knitters, I offered to host our very own World Wide Knit in Public Day.

Huntington Beach State Park
16148 Ocean HWY, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Saturday, June 14th.
12:00 noon - til you can't knit no more
***

Is there a more appropriate place for the South Strand Knitters to host a WWKIP other than the beach?!? So, bring whatever beach paraphernalia you normally use (chair, umbrella, sunscreen), water to drink, and of course... your WIP (Work in Progress). Join us for a fun day of knitting, chatting, knitting, fun, knitting, sharing, and a really good time!

As Huntington Beach is a State Park, they do charge an admission fee to enter.
Daily Park Fees:
Ages 16 and older: $5
Ages 6-15: $3
Ages 5 and younger free
S.C. residents ages 65 and older and S.C. disabled residents $3.25
There is no admission charge for seasonal pass holders.

Driving Directions:
From Murrells Inlet: Drive 3 mi. S. on Hwy 17. Park entrance is on the left.
From Georgetown: Drive 20 mi N on Hwy 17. park entrance is on the right.

2008-04-24T19:34:00.001-05:00

FINALLY

Here is the link to the youtube video of my son's homecoming.

No Better Surprise...

I just had to share.

2008-03-30T14:04:00.003-05:00

The Desert is Abloom

Life in the desert is usually sunshine - 365 days a year. But, this winter, it rained. That's not too unusual for the Southwest, but a rarity all the same. And now that Spring is upon is, the normally brown hills and mountains are just awash with colors! Now, that is unusual.

2008-03-25T13:45:00.005-05:00

My First Quilt

In reality, even though it was completed after the other quilt, it was the first one that I started. I had the most wonderful assistant, teacher, and mentor... my sister Dee. Who would have imagined that quilters are even more horrid enablers than knitters? Go figure!I am happy with my endeavor. But, I have so much to learn about color. I chose very complementary colors and I think I needed to use more contrast. Perhaps, a better choice than the purple would have been a very dark green?

I just love the ticking that I found for the backing. And the lady who did the machine quilting did a marvelous job. All in all... I'm tickled pink!

2008-03-09T13:05:00.009-05:00

Do you remember this Ugly Duckling?

Well, after many, many months in the Frog Pond, it has finally become a Swan.
If you remember, I did complete the Mystery Stole 3 in its entirety last year. I was wide-eyed with enthusiasm as this was to be my first endeavor in the "mystery" genre. Each week, I waited anxiously as the next "clue" was announced. I was loving the progression of the stole that was blossoming before me - up until the end of Clue 4. My doubts began as I began to knit Clue 5. The pattern abruptly changed and seemed to be going in a direction to where I did not want to go. But,to keep faithful to the spirit of the KAL, I blindly persevered and I continued and knitted along. Being the consummate over-achiever that I am, it was completed before the week was over after the final clue was presented.

I tried to like it. Really, I did! I just couldn't bring myself to like it. I tried desperately and it was not going to happen. It looked like two different shawls had been mismatched together. I did like both halves, individually, just not together. So, I frogged the shawl back to the end of clue 4. And that's where it sat for the past 6 months - lost and forgotten and hated.

Fast forward to now... After all my exuberant Christmas sock knitting, I decided it was time to finish all the left over UFO’s in my pile - with this being one of them. I am so proud that I finally finished it! Wah la! Over! Kaput! Fini! Stick a fork in me! Dun!
Obligatory Stats:

Pattern: Mystery Stole 3/Swan Lake
Designer: Melanie Gibbons
Yarn: Elsbeth Lavold Hempathy
Colorway: White Beach
Skeins: 6/918 yds
Needles: Denise US Size 6
Blocked size: 29" x 84"
Made for: Deirdre (shhhh! Don't tell her. It's a surprise!)

2008-03-01T18:55:00.002-05:00

WOW!!!!

In January, Hubby had a business trip to Florida. I decided to join him. After it was over, he went home, and I stayed on and spent a few weeks having a wonderful visit with my sister, Dee. I had such a wonderful visit. We had a great time, talking, bonding and sharing. But, I guess that perhaps, she shared a bit more with me.Dee is a gifted seamstress and quilter. Her talents are well evident in the fabulous quilted jacket that she made for me last Christmas, and the two gorgeous quilts that she had bestowed me this Christmas. Well, I asked her if she would help me make a quilt. Quilters are even more diligent enablers than knitters - she was more than happy to oblige. This is ONE of the quilts that I made!
I am proud of my endeavor. And even happier that I had the opportunity to visit with Dee. A sister's love is forever.

2008-02-15T11:21:00.004-05:00

The Best Valentine's Day.... EVER!!!

Yesterday, my son came home....

Nicholas had been serving in Afghanistan since January of last year. This was his second deployment, having already served one tour in Iraq in 2003.

I left PI bright and early, and headed up to Fort Pope Air Force Base to meet his plane that was to arrive at 12:00. It took me a while to navagate through all the red tape, but I managed to be there waiting. My heart was in my throat as I saw the plane approaching and making its final descent. Slowly, it manavuered over to the ramp and a unit of soldiers went up to the plane to lay out a red carpet for the returning guys.

Off in the distance, I could see all the soldiers come off the plane and I had such a hard time tryng to figure out just which one was mine. Then finally, as they were parading past us in formation, I saw him. My baby.

After a little formality, they were able to break ranks and he rushed over to me and scooped me in his arms. We wept and hugged. I held onto him for what seemed like eternity, not wanting to let the moment pass. Secretly, I was so happy that I didn't have to share him with anyone and he was mine, all mine, just mine once again.

When Nick completed his processing - turning in his firearms, etc. We high-tailed it out of there and made the 3+ hour drive back to Myrtle Beach for Phase II of Operation V-Day - surprising his wife.

Kirstin hadn't a clue that he was returning early and keeping my excitement a secret was one of the hardest things that I had to do... ever. Still dressed in his fatigues, with an armful of 6 dozen long-stemmed roses, Nick walked into her classroom. The principal was videotaping a "therapy session" and caught the entire thing on tape. Even Marguerite was there, with her camera to capture the moment. There was not a dry eye in the house.

We arrived back home and the front of my house had been decorated, by the rest of my posse - Carol and Barbie, with bouquets of red, white and blue balloons to welcome him home. It looked so festive, a true hero's welcome. And there was a welcome basket, tied in a huge red bow around American flags, that held champagne, cheeses, strawberries, whipped cream, grapes, crackers, breads, chocolates. I have good friends. No. I have great friends.

I awoke this morning, still in a daze, hoping that yesterday wasn't just a dream. But, it was real and it did happen. My hero came home. And it was the best Valentine's Day... EVER!!

2008-02-07T20:29:00.000-05:00

A Sister's Love

I just wanted to share a picture of the TWO lovely quilts that my sister lovingly made for me for Christmas.

Gosh. And all she got was a lousy pair of socks....

2008-01-10T21:30:00.000-05:00

Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so..
Love the people who treat you right.
Forget about the ones who don't.
Believe that everything happens for a reason.
If you get a chance , TAKE IT!
If it changes your life , LET IT!
Nobody said it would be easy...
They just promised it would be worth it.

2008-01-08T19:00:00.000-05:00

It was worth the wait!

I came home from a luncheon today, and there was a box waiting for me by my front door. It just so happened to be from my ISE5 Pal, Ann.

First, there was the most beautiful scarf....

It is called "Argosy Scarf", crafted from Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks That Rock in the colorway Olive Garden. She pegged my colors perfectly..... "think Tuscan landscape... dotted with sunflowers and lavender". I have to apologize for my horrid photography, it does not do this beautiful scarf any justice. It is truly stunning and Ann did the most fabulous job blocking it.

Then there was this yarn......Two beautiful skeins of Claudia Hand Painted Yarns Fingering Merino. The colorway is called Ingrid's Blues, and is so beautiful. This yarn is begging to be knitted up into a pair of socks... with my name on it!

And then, this book.....

"The Secret Language of Knitters". I have only a short time to skim through it, but I know that I will really enjoy it. I will share some of the "whitty knittyism" with my weekly knitting group. It is surely going to bring a few howls from the ladies.

And there were other goodies... cookies that never made it to the photo shoot. I'm busy dusting the crumbs off my shirt now. And two beautiful lace patterns that I have been eyeing... "Print of the Wave" by Eunny Jang and "Wing 'o the Moth Shawl" by Anne Hanson. Now that I have finished my Christmas marathon of sock knitting, I will be heading back to my lace. These will be on the list.

Thank you Ann for making me feel so special. I enjoyed your package, and even more, I enjoyed getting to know you through your emails. You have touched my heart.

2007-12-31T20:54:00.000-05:00

WARNING FOR WOMEN:

You've heard about people who have been abducted and had their kidneys removed by black-market organ thieves. Well, this kind of cruel theft is happening with other body parts as well!

My thighs were stolen from me during the night a few years ago. I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs. It was just that quick. The replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent the entire summer looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in jeans.

Then the thieves struck again. My ass was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new ass was attached at least three inches lower than my original. I realized I'd have to give up my jeans in favor of long skirts.

Two years ago I realized my arms had been switched. One morning I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arms swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. This was really getting scary - my body was being replaced one section at a time. What could they do to me next?

When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to tell my story.

Women of the world wake up and smell the coffee! Those "plastic" surgeons are using REAL replacement body parts stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has some thing "lifted", look again - was it lifted from you?

THIS IS NOT A HOAX.
This is happening to women everywhere every night.
WARN YOUR FRIENDS!

P.S. Last year I thought someone had stolen my breasts. I was lying in bed and they were gone! But when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my armpits as I slept. Now I keep them safely hidden in my waist band.

2007-12-09T20:37:00.000-05:00

Irish Ghost Story

This story happened a while ago in Dublin, and even though it sounds like an Alfred Hitchcock tale, it’s true.

John Bradford, a Dublin University student, was on the side of the road hitchhiking on a very dark night and in the midst of a storm. The night was rolling on and no car went by. The storm was so strong he could hardly see a few feet ahead of him. Suddenly, he saw a car slowly coming towards him and stopped. John, desperate for shelter and without thinking about it, got into the car and closed the door. only to realize there was nobody behind the wheel and the engine wasn't on!! The car started moving slowly. John looked at the road ahead and saw a curve approaching. Scared, he started to pray, begging for his life. Then, just before the car hit the curve, a hand appeared through the window and turned the wheel. John, paralyzed with terror, watched as the hand repeatedly came through the window, but never touched or harmed him. Shortly thereafter, John saw the lights of a pub appear down the road, so, gathering strength, he jumped out of the car and ran to it.

Wet and out of breath, he rushed inside and started telling everybody about the horrible experience he had just had. A silence enveloped the pub when everybody realized he was crying and....wasn't drunk. Suddenly, the door opened, and two other people walked in from the stormy night. They, like John, were also soaked and out of breathe.

Looking around, and seeing John Bradford sobbing at the bar, one said to the other..."Look Paddy...there's that freaking idiot that got in the car while we were pushing it!!!!"

2007-12-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

Inish Oirr Cniotáilte Stocaí

Inish Oirr Cniotáilte Stocaí (Inis Oirr Knitted Socks) are the first in a series, inspired by our family trip to Ireland. Inish Oirr is the eastern most of the Aran Islands, where we spent a delightful day this past summer. These were lovingly created and designed for my daughter, Bevin.

Obligatory Stats:

Pattern: Inish Oirr Cniotáilte Stocaí
Designer: Me
Yarn: YarnAddict 100% Easy Care Merino Sock Yarn
Colorway: November Sockamania PLUS
Yardage: 400 yd
Needles: Addi Turbo US 1.5
This pattern will be available after the New Year

Lifesaver Socks

These were made for my nephew, Patrick. They are simplicity plus. They were crafted using 2 socks/2 circs, toe-up with the Turkish Cast-On, and a simple K3,P3 rib. I named them Lifesavers, because they look like a roll of Lifesaver candies.

Obligatory Stats:

Pattern: Lifesaver Socks
Yarn: Regia 4-ply
Yardage: 450 yd
Needles: Addi Turbo US 1.5

2007-11-26T14:57:00.001-05:00

Hot off the needles:

Obligatory Stats:

Pattern: Ripples Socks

Designer: Anni Design for Sockamania

Yarn: Sunshine Yarns

Colorway: Reef

Yardage: 400

Needles: Addi Turbo US 1.5

Start Date: November 16, 2007

Finish Date: November 26, 2007

Notes: 2 socks/ 2 circs, toe-up, and added a few rows of ribbing at top.

This pair is for my niece, Kyle Ann

2007-11-17T13:14:00.000-05:00

Okay, So this is how I imagine this conversation went:

Walmart Employee: 'Hello 'dis Walmarts, how can I help you?'

Customer: ' I would like to order a cake for a going away party this week.'

Walmart Employee: ?'What you want on the cake?'

Customer: 'Best Wishes Suzanne' and underneath that 'We will miss you'.

2007-11-06T13:37:00.000-05:00

October's Elegance Socks

I just completed October's Elegance Socks from the Sockamania blog. They were designed by AnniDesign, and she offers a different sock each month, free for members of the blog. Anni is very talented and so creative. The yarn that I used was expressly dyed to complement the pattern and exclusively to the PLUS membership. It is truly luscious and spoingy, and I would highly recommend her yarns for anyone yearning to be pampered. I used a Turkish Cast-On for the first time and it has to be the best technique that I discovered this year! Simplicity at its finest!

Obligatory Stats

Pattern: Elegance Socks
Designer: Anni Design, for Sockamania
Yarn: YarnAddict Yarns Sockamania PLUS Merino Sock Yarn
Colorway: October Club
Needles: Addi Turbo 2.5mm
Yardage: 400 yds

2007-10-24T16:53:00.000-05:00

I AM SPECIAL

This afternoon, I returned home from Rhinebeck. It was a long whirlwind weekend that encompassed flying up to NYC to visit with family and friends and to attend the NYS Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck for the first time. There will more on that later. Awaiting my return to PI, I found the most fabulous package from my KTS4 Pal Tammy.

There were the cutest beaded stitch markers in a wonderful Christmas and Winter theme, and an adorable tin that is perfect for holding all those loose notions that I have scattered about my knitting chair.

And the goodies... lots of Teas and Chocolates from Trader Joe's and some yummy cookies.

And the yarn! Oh my, there was some sscrumptious Hand Maiden Yarn Sea Silk in the Renaissance colorway.........and some truly fabulous Socks That Rock Lightweight in Star Sapphire colorway that is a beautiful periwinkle.

And if that wasn't enough, Tammy was thoughtful to include the "Spring Shawl" pattern from Heirloom Knitting. Since I discovered lace, Sharon Miller's designs have been on my most aspired, most drooled over, most coveted patterns.Tammy, I am in awe of your creativity and truly touched by your generosity. Thank you for making me feel so special.

2007-10-17T10:51:00.000-05:00

Another Estonian Garden Shawl

This project is finished, just waiting to be shipped off to my ISE5 Pal. She said that she would love a lace project. I am hoping that this shawl will be everything that she had hoped for.

This coming weekend, I'll be heading to Rhinebeck. So, the package will wait until after I return. I just might find a few surprises to keep this shawl company on its journey to my ISE5 Pal.

2007-10-15T13:02:00.000-05:00

My Pal, she has done it again..

I was just about to walk out the door for my daily errands. You know.. the bank, library, post office, dry-cleaners, etc. However, there was this package leaning up against the door. My curiosity was peaked. The darn errands would have to wait.

I opened the box to reveal two packages that were so carefully wrapped in white tissue paper. But, not for long. I ripped open the first to reveal two skeins of Louet Gems in the Indigo colorway. My first instinct, as with all yarn, was to put it up to my cheek to rub it and smell it. It is truly luscious. I have never used this yarn, but with all the socks that I have planned in the wings over the next 3 months, that yarn will not be gathering too much dust.And then, as I opened the next package, I stopped dead in my tracks. I was, and if you can believe it, still am, speechless. There was the piece d' resistance (OK, so you can tell that I took Spanish not French). There was the most truly fabulous, mouth-dropping, incredible, fantastic, awe-inspiring, and most coveted sock blockers that I have ever feasted my eyes upon. And they were mine. All mine.

Just when I didn't think that it was possible for my pal to top her last package, she did it again. I am floored, and extremely grateful for her infinite generosity and down right good taste! Thank you. thank you. thank you. thank you.

And of course, I couldn't resist modeling my most recent pair of socks. Here they are, in all their glory, looking too marvelous....

2007-10-10T14:39:00.000-05:00

I found it!

I found the most perfect shop in the UK to spoil my pal.

Socktopus, a relative newcomer to the yarn scene, is now offering the UK, and the world, the finest, most luxurious fibers that are available.. anywhere. When it comes to retailers, Alice has raised the bar a notch. She offers exceptional products, at the best prices, and with the best customer service that you will experience in a long time. Alice, has the most exquisite taste in yarn, and being an avid sock knitter herself, she has an eye and hand for selecting just the very best. She carries Hand Maiden Casbah, a luscious blend of cashmere/wool and Fleece Artist Somoko, a luxurious blend of kid/silk/merino. I have been gifted yarns by Hand Maiden myself, and I have not stopped caressing them yet.

For the ultimate splurge, could Alice entice you with Camel Spin? It's another yarn by Handmaiden - camel down is really luxurious and exotic. This one is 30% camel down and 70% silk. Or how about another yarn by The Knittery, from Australia, which is a cashmere and merino blend (60% superwash merino, 20% cashmere, 20% nylon) - softer still than Casbah and it is truly absolute heaven! If you haven't been bitten by fiber bug yet, why not try some of the absolute gorgeous offerings of pure cashmere from Mama Llama. Oh and of course there is Buffalo Gold, from Texas. This is buffalo down which is an exotic fibre, rather dear, and rather warm.

Alice even has a Socktopus Sock Club in the planning stages. She has plans to showcase the exceptional yarns of local, as well as international hand dyers. Bookmark Socktopus. It will be the site to browse when you want the finest yarns that are available.

2007-10-09T12:08:00.000-05:00

2007-10-09T08:17:00.000-05:00

Another ISE

I joined the International Scarf Exchange 5. This will be my fourth round in this particular exchange. Each time, I have been blessed with the most fabulous partners, both up and downstream.

I have read the questionnaire of the pal that I am to spoil. She outlined the colors, type and style that she would love. Being the sneak that I am, my introduction to her I told her that I had only been knitting for about 6 months and I am just now learning how to purl. I told her that I love the beautiful selection of yarns that are available at my local Wal-mart. Isn't she just crazy about Lion Brand too? (Yes, I will be going straight to hell for all the lies that I tell, but heck.... I'll know everyone there!) I know that she would love a lace shawl, but with all the constraints upon my time, I really doubt if I will have the time to devote to it. I do have one already done, it's the Estonian Garden Shawl that I made using GGH Capri (a cotton/tencel blend) in a salmon color. I just don't know if it would be her first choice when it comes to the color.

The shawl is done, sitting in a drawer, all folded up and waiting to be loved and cherished. Would it be so tacky to send a shawl that I had already made?

I have heard from the person that is to spoil me. She sent an email asking a few questions, to try and get to know me more. I sent her a loooooong rendition, that just might have been a little TMI. Well, she asked for it! lol. I just hope that she uses this exchange as a change to try new and different techniques and yarns.... but most of all.... to just have fun!

2007-10-06T04:56:00.000-05:00

A Sister's Gift

I was gifted this truly fabulous quilted jacket. Dee is so talented, and far outshines my abilities. She was making a quilt, when her son remarked that the color's were "so Aunt Dorene". And, yes, they are. If you could just imagine a Tuscan landscape with the luscious green fields, dotted with abundant sunflowers and lavender, you can picture colors that I'm drawn to. So, she decided to use some of the fabric and craft me a jacket. Isn't is just fabulous?

Look... even the lining is sheer perfection....

The colors didn't really come out as vibrant as they really are, as the flash did wash them out, just a tad. But, I hope that you can just partially imagine how truly exquisite this gift is. Boy, do I feel special!

2007-10-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

O! M! G!

I just received a parcel from my Secret Pal. Actually, it went out west and Nick had to forward it to me here at the beach. It arrived today and when I opened it, all I could say, is OMG, over and over again. "Sock Pal" really outdid herself.

The package included a wonderful skein of Mini Maiden, the little sister of the Silk Maiden that I have been totally ga-ga over. It is a delightful blend of Silk and Wool and is in the most luxurious color called Sangria. Cocktails, anyone? I just can't seem to stop petting it. It truly is that luscious. Oh, my.
Then, there was a lavender sachet pillow from Peace Valley Lavender Farm, accompanied by a little tub of the Lavender Shea Butter. Nothing, I mean nothing, makes my yarn smell any better than lavender. A girl can never have too much lavender.
Finally, I came to a small package that was wrapped in a plain wrapper, from Knitty Noddy. Gingerly, I opened it to reveal.... "Knitting Lace Triangles", the latest book from my idol, Evelyn Clark. It is eerie, because I was seriously contemplating buying the book myself, just yesterday. I just ran out of time and never got around to order it. Talk about karma!
Well, "Sock Pal", you have put together one truly fabulous package and I am in awe. This one was definitely a "10". This is one that will hard to beat.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

2007-09-21T11:58:00.000-05:00

More International Woes

Some people came up with some very creative ideas when shipping internationally.

Flat Rate Envelope:
The most cost effect way to ship is to use the "Flat-rate" Envelope. It costs $11.00 and has no weight limit.
Downside - it isn't too big and it is gosh awfully hard trying to cram any goodies in there.

Gift Certificates:
Read your pal's blog and try to find out what LYS she frequents. Is there any one in particular that she really likes. Email them and ask if you could purchase a gift voucher.
Downside: You email them to inquire. They will email you back and ask to you call them. So, the 10lb** voucher, at the current exchange will cost $21.00, $4.00 in postage, $4.00 for a phone call. I'm up to $29.00 for a 10lb voucher. I ask you. Doesn't 10lb sound kind of skimpy? Just how much can you buy for 10lb?
** I apologize but I can't find the symbol for the British pound.

Order Online:
Go to http://www.amazon.uk.com/ and order a book. Let's say "Victorian Lace Today"
Downside: In the UK, that book cost 21.00lb. Do the currency thing and that equates to $44.00!!!! My poor dollar is taking such a beating! I can order the same book from http://www.amazon.com/ and even with the shipping abroad, the same book will cost me $28.75.

By the end of this exchange I will have figured out all the angles. But for now, I'm still trying....

2007-09-12T17:33:00.000-05:00

Suggestions, please....

I am participating in the Secret Pal 11. I usually like these sort of exchanges as I get to plan a surprise for another knitter. But, with my current exchange I am facing a dilemma, and perhaps, you can help.....

My first package was to have a theme - Spa indulgence. It included some luscious yarns (linen, silk, cotton), along with patterns to make some spa-like accessories (washcloths, bath mitts, sachets). Of course, it also included beautiful collection of elegant sundries (bath salts, lotions, oils), aromatherapy candles and some decadent chocolate for the ultimate indulgence. My problem is that my partner lives abroad. This package that I put together will cost over $40.00 in postage alone!!!!!! Yikes, and this is just the first of three packages that are due! Now, I don't begrudge spending money on someone. Heck, that's what this is all about. But, I do begrudge spending that sort of money just on postage. That's downright ludicrous. It's absurd!

So, I'm back to the drawing board and open for any suggestions.....

Does anyone have any lightweight, and I do mean "lightweight", suggestions for a wonderful package?

2007-09-04T19:35:00.000-05:00

Oh, the heartache.....

The finished MS3 had been discarded, sent to a forgotten corner of the room. I avoided it. I had poured myself into this project for the last two months and I just couldn't bring myself to look at it anymore. So, there it sat, as a blob of knitting nothingness.

Today, I finally got up enough gumption to do something about it.
So, it went from this.....
to this....
...... in under 60 seconds.

Ripping back the 500+ yd of yarn, it felt like eternity. I am planning to knit another of the first half (clue 1-4) and then grafting the two pieces together. I know that I'll be so much happier with Plan B.

2007-08-22T11:04:00.000-05:00

Mystery Stole 3

Have you ever seen any of Melanie Leesburg's designs? She has some fabulous patterns at her site Pink Lemon Twist. I particularly love Leda's Dream and Moon Dance Shawls. She is so talented that I just had to join her Mystery Stole 3 KAL. It is my first that I have ever done and it was a wonderful learning experience. I grabbed my needles and yarn, and followed along, blindly, each week as a new clue was revealed.

Clue 1 thru 4....

I loved this. It had a wonderful point, a delightful pattern and it was the first time that I had ever worked with beads.

Then, Clue 5...

The stole began an abrupt turn and a totally different pattern was emerging. I didn't think that I was going to like a shawl that was asymmetrical, but to keep with the "spirit" of the mystery, I plodded along. Heck, what did I have to lose? A little time? And, I just might like it.

Clue 5 thru 7....

I really like the pattern that she put together for the "wing". Unusual, and stunning.

The finished shawl (unblocked).....

Here it is, draped across my bed. Disappointment sets in. I paraded around, trying desperately, to imagine the beauty of it. It is gawd awful! What was the girl thinking? It looks like the Sesame Street song, "Which of the two is unlike the other? Which of the two doesn't belong?" They are both truly beautiful patterns, by themselves. But, they just do not belong together. Please, do not get the impression that this is a feeble attempt at bashing Melanie. This is my humble opinion, and only my humble opinion. I think she is a very talented designer. And as a designer, you will come up with a design that some will love, and some will hate. I believe that this is that one.

I will be frogging the "wing" and making another half consisting of clue 1 - 4 and graft the two together. Heck, I might even do yet another shawl using just the wing pattern.

Thank you Melanie. I might not have liked the finished product, but I did learn so much and really did appreciate all the time and effort that you have given, freely, to this KAL.

An aside:

Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold's Hempathy (hemp/cotton blend)

Color: White Beach

Yardage: 1,071 (7 skeins)

Needles: Size 6 Denise

2007-08-08T12:25:00.000-05:00

WOW!I am touched that someone took the time to nominate me! This exchange has been so much more than just knitting a scarf. I have been given the opportunity to "meet" some wonderful people that have truly touched my heart.

I remember my first exchange, ISE2, when I was a new knitter. I was terrified that I wouldn't be able to knit anything worthy to give to another knitter, someone who you can't fool, and someone that would be able to find all my mistakes. These exchanges have given me the opportunity to spread my wings, stretch my limits and try new techniques. It forced me to try somethings that would have never had the nerve to attempt.

For these reasons, and so many more, I am extremely grateful for this exchange.

Thank you and all the organizers for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this exchange. Kudos for a job well done.

Thank you!

2007-08-05T20:47:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal 11 Questionnaire

I didn't participate in the last SP exchange. I was waaaay too busy, living between my homes, work, traveling, etc. But, when I returned home from Europe, I noticed that the sign-ups were open, so I figured, what the heck. I'll give it another whirl. I really do like these. I have a tendency to go a wee bit overboard. I just love getting to "know" someone, and then figuring the best way to surprise them. Isn't that what exchanges are all about?

So, without further ado. (drum roll, please) Here is the SP 11 questionnaire and my answers.

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?

My goodness, this is a hard one. I love just about all yarns. Having recently relocating to the desert, with its 100+ temperatures, I have been using a bit of cotton, silk and linen. Sea Silk and Euroflax are fabulous! What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I found that I can not tolerate to knit with mohair or angora. They make me itch.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

I store them in my Lantern Moon needle case and another case that a dear friend handmade especially for me.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I have been knitting for just over 2 years. I am self-taught, having learned via the internet and wonderful forums. I consider myself to be an adventurous intermediate. I just don't know enough to have any pattern, or technique intimidate me.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

No, I don't, but I really should work on one.

5. What's your favorite scent?

Perfume? I love Mariella Bruani. But, I also love the smell when I open my stash and the whiff of lavender catches my nose. A dear friend had gifted me with a sachet that she had made from the lavender in her garden and I love it. Nothing smells better.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I adore white chocolate. I love malted milk balls and caramel. But, to be truthful, I have never turned my nose from any candy.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?

I try to make just about everything. I dabble with painting, stained glass, basketry, quilting and embroidery. I know that I am missing a few. I did try my hand at spinning last winter, thinking that it would be a wonderful way to escape cabin fever in my new home. But, winter never came. So, I didn't spin as much as I wanted to. I do have plans to devote more time to it.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

My favorite artists are Jimmy Buffett, Eric Clapton, Grateful Dead, Eagles, Billy Joel, the Travelling Willbury's, etc. Yes. I am hopelessly stuck in the 70's and 80's. I recently found a new life for my iPod. I download books that I listen to while I knit.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?

I love all colors, especially deep, rich, fully saturated colors - reds, blues, purples, greens. I abhor brown and shy away from pastels.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I'm married to my best friend of 29 years. Children are grown and gone. No pets.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

Scarves? Yes, but only light and airy ones, more as a fashion statement than functional. Hats /Mittens? Did I say its HOT here? And Ponchos? Not since the 70's.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

Lace, lace and more lace. Socks run a close 4th.

13. What are you knitting right now?

Currently, I'm working on the Estonian Garden Shawl using Euroflax, and another in Hempathy. I am also working on the Mystery Stole 3. I also have pair of socks in the works.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Oh, yes... please and thank you!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

When I first started knitting, I just loved my CPY bamboo straights. They still are my most favorite straights, but since taking up lace, I find myself using circulars more and more. My newest favorite has to be my Addi Lace, followed by my Denises.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Yes/yes.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

I don't have any. I am a tad obsessive-compulsive and I must complete a project before moving onto the next. The only reason why I have more than one item OTN now, is because of the MS3 and it's down time and my need for portable projects for travelling.

18. What is your favorite holiday?

Christmas! I adore Christmas.

19. Is there anything that you collect?

I collect German Nutcrackers. Also, handmade baskets.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Books? Sharon Miller's "Heirloom Lace". It is awfully pricey. I think it just might be my Christmas present to myself! Yarns? HandMaiden, Louet, Claudia Handpaint. Needles? More Addi Lace. Patterns? Any lace shawl from Heirloom Lace, especially the Princess Shawl, the Spring Shawl and the Nesting Shawl. They are fabulous! Magazine subscriptions? I currently subscribe to Interweave Knits and Rowan. I have been coveting a set of those wooden sock blockers.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

On my list of things that I would love to learn is Fair Isle and color work. I don't see these in the very near futures, as I'm still perfecting working with one strand/color.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

Yes. Size 10 US or 41.

23. When is your birthday?

April 25th

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?

Uh? I am so out of the loop!

2007-07-31T13:42:00.000-05:00

Ireland

My son Nick, who is stationed in Afghanistan, was getting two weeks leave, soooooo.... the entire Delaney clan decided to meet him in Ireland. My sister and I have been planning this trip for the past several months, arranging house leasing, airfares for 16, rental cars, yadda yadda. Well, on July 5th, it all fell into place as we all descended upon JFK for our departure for Ireland, to meet with my son. The party included my Mom, along with my family, my sister's family and my brother's family.

We stayed outside Galway in the town of Athenry, in a delightful home that had enough bedrooms and bathrooms to hold our family. It was complete with a pool room, that the boys loved, and a tennis court. We couldn't find the tennis rackets, but the kids did manage to make up a new game of Irish handball that will soon be sweeping the nation.

The weather was rainy, unseasonably rainy, but it never deterred us from venturing around the Isle. We spent much time in Galway, as it was hosting its annual Arts Festival. We visited the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Dublin, Killarney, Cork, the Blarney Castle, Sligo, Connemara and the Aran Islands.

Some of the group, enjoying an afternoon pint......At The Quay, in Galway......Nick and Bevin.....

Blarney Castle...Cliffs of Moher....Tower at Athenry.....This was my first time visiting the Aran Islands and it was truly spectacular. Most of our group travelled around Inis Mohr on bicycles, however, I, along with my sister and my mother, took the less strenuous trip in the back of a buggy.

Nick and Kirstin.....Pete and Oriana.....Emma, Oriana, KyleAnn and Bevin.....Bevin, befriending a local dog...Mom, Dee and I, travelling in style....Hubby, and sons at St. James' Gate Brewery....Nick and Pete at Durty Nelly's....

Sunday, the 15th, would have been my parent's 57th wedding anniversary. We surprised Mom by taking her to Knock, where we visited the shrine and attended mass. Our Lady of Knock was my Dad's favorite Irish song. That day had my Mom shedding a few tears, remembering my Dad but sharing this day with her children and grandchildren.....

The family at dinner, the night before Nick returned to Afghanistan....Emma and Bevin giving the "Pete" thumbs up......

We created memories that will last a lifetime. And hopefully, will keep up Nick's morale for the remainder of his tour, until he returns home next May. Please, keep him, and the other young men and women that serve our county, in your thoughts and prayers.

2007-06-19T19:48:00.000-05:00

God Bless Louis

Last night, Charleston Fire Department lost 9 men. One of them was a very dear friend....Louis Mulkey.That's Louis, pictured above, with his best friend, Robert. He was so vibrant, full of life. I sit here devastated and mourn the loss of a friend that I will miss dearly.

God bless all the heroes. Keep Louis, the 8 other Charleston Firefighters and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

2007-06-07T16:01:00.000-05:00

Sophie: A Gazillion Thanks

I was heading out the door, when my maillady came to greet me, holding this package from Sophie, my Knitters Tea Swap 3 partner. Oh well, the beach will just have to wait......

I opened the box to reveal all these tissue paper wrapped goodies with the cutest little notes attached to each one.... I quickly removed each item from the box. Besides all the culinary goodness, there were 7, yes, that's right, 7 little packages for me to open....

WOW! I couldn't believe my eyes. Sophie included a magazine for some light beach reading. There are scrumptious crackers and cookies and chocolate. And some English Breakfast Tea from Second Cup, which is "local Canadian answer to Starbucks". And some President's Choice, another local, English Breakfast Tea. Sophie's choices were fabulous, knowing what constraints that I had placed upon her when I admitted that I abhorred flavored teas! Sophie also included a small magnet from Lettuce Knit that she obtained at a local knit-in. It is already on the fridge. And the cutest, miniature porcelain teapot. And the most intriguing box that read "Tea for Two". This is what it said on the side of the box, "Enter into a world of grace and sophistication - the delightful tradition of afternoon tea. Inside Tea for Two, you'll find a pair of miniature tea balls, a saucer, a honey dipper and a 32-page book with easy recipes and tips for tea-time etiquette." How adorable is that?

But, the best and the truly NOT the very least, there are THREE skeins of yarn. Sophie had chosen some Fleece Artist 100% Merino for socks. And yarn from Hand Maiden - Sea Silk and Silk Maiden. Oh. My. God. Have I died and went to heaven? I have heard some great things about this yarn, but it wasn't until I had it in my hands did I understand what all the fuss is about! It is truly fabulous. And the color choices are superb. Wow! and Wow! again.....

Sophie, you are a master and I bow to your good taste. Truly, I have been spoiled. Thank you.....

2007-06-01T05:44:00.000-05:00

The Estonian Garden Shawl

This is the most perfect something for a cool summer night - light and airy. This was the first time that I have ever used Euroflax and I couldn't have been more pleased. It blocked fabulously and I am sure will soften even more with subsequent washings.

Here it is draped in my garden:

And here, getting ready to be packed up and gifted:

Obligatory stats:
Pattern: Estonian Garden Shawl
Designer: Evelyn Clark
Yarn: Euroflax Fine/Sportweight
Yardage: 1,080 yd/4 skeins
Needles: Addi Turbo Lace size 5
Size: 80"x29"

2007-05-31T18:02:00.001-05:00

Where have I been?

I arrived here in Pawleys Island two weeks ago. Hubby and I returned to assist with the 6th Annual FDNY 9-11 Memorial Golf Outing. You can get more information here. We were here one week prior to assist with all the preliminary things and a week after to recuperate. Hubby went back to the desert, but I was homesick for my beloved beach so I decided to stick around for a while.

I have been undergoing a green overload. Everywhere I look, there is green - green grass, green shrubs, green trees, green leaves, etc. It is a welcomed change from the brown and more brown of the desert. I have also spent some peaceful times on my beach. My senses are inundated by the smell of the salt air, the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach, and the sensation of the warm breezes and sunshine on my skin. Being here is as close to heaven as one can get. I love the beach....

Exchange Update

ISE4

I just received the most wonderful package from my pal, Cathy. She created this scrumptious scarf using Malibringo, in the most fabulous colors just like a desert sunset. It is so unbelievably scrunchingly, squishingly soft. The cabled pattern consists of a repeat of X's and O's. Can you see them? Just like hugs and kisses. It is meticulously crafted and it will be keeping me wonderfully warm next winter.

And if the scarf wasn't enough, she also included a sock pattern, called "Seahorse Sox for Dorene" that she designed especially for me. I am so flattered. She also packed some Louet Gems Pearl yarn in a fabulous Caribbean Blue color for me to make the socks. I have never used this yarn before and I am so looking forward to trying it out.

Thank you, Cathy for the great package. Yes, indeed. You did spoil me.

And in other news, after 2 weeks of travel, my package finally made its way to Deborah in Australia. She liked the Canberra scarf and hat. So many people have asked for the pattern and I hope to have it posted here soon.

I also sent another package, that as I speak, is making its way across the Atlantic to a girl who's pal had fizzed out on her. As her "angel", I sent the aubergine Swallowtail Shawl that I bragged about in a previous post. I hope that she likes it. It is the most perfect shawl for a cool summer night.

Knitters Tea Swap 3

Ok... this one's a first for me. Heck, I knit. Heck, I even drink tea. So, I suppose that this one's for me. The format of this exchange is a bit different in that, you and your pals exchange and its not a secret. The package should include tea, snacks to go along with the tea, something "local", and yarn. I am soooo glad that I got to do this from here in Pawleys. I mailed the package earlier this week. It is chockfull of Southern Hospitality that it just screams (wait, southern belles don't scream) oozes southern charm. Well, bless my heart.

2007-05-04T12:29:00.000-05:00

Canberra Scarf & Hat

Tah Dah! Here it is! In all its glory! My finished ISE4 Project that I named the Canberra Scarf.
I used an original pattern that blended two of my most favorite things to knit - cables & lace. The cables and lace, simple enough not to be overpowering, complement each other wonderfully. The yarn that I used, Jaeger Como, was not my first choice, but it worked up truly remarkable with the pattern. It is oh so soft, and oh so luscious and oh so long. After all, my pal did ask for long. I also made a hat to go along with the scarf to keep my pal toasty warm during the upcoming winter season. I hope that my pal will like it half as much as I loved knitting it.

Obligatory Stats
Pattern: Canberra Scarf
Designer: Self
Yarn: Jaeger Como
Color: Grape
Yardage: 426 (3 skeins)
Size: 7" x 80" (excluding fringe)

2007-04-26T15:49:00.000-05:00

Canberra Scarf

Desperately, I have been racking my brains, trying to come up with something that is worthy for my pal in the International Scarf Exchange 4. I have swatched, frogged, swatched, frogged, and swatched and frogged somemore. Finally, I have found the yarn that complements the original design. I have chosen Jaeger's Como in the color Grape. Como is a luscious yarn comprised of 90% Merino and 10% Polymide. The pattern is one that I designed that incorporates two of my most favorite things to knit - cables and lace. I am about half way completed and will soon be working on a hat to complete the ensemble. So, enough of this patter... I have knitting to do.

2007-04-14T13:22:00.000-05:00

Estonian Garden Shawl

I love, LOVE, love this pattern. This is Evelyn Clark's greatest pattern and it is such a pleasure to knit. This one is crafted using GGH's Capri, a combo of cotton/modal. Just perfect for those cool summer nights on the veranda, whilst I sip a margarita (or two or three)....

2007-04-12T13:00:00.000-05:00

The Swallowtail Shawl.....

Here are a few pictures of the two Swallowtail Shawls that I just completed.

The first is using GGH Capri in a rich aubergine color. It is a cotton/acrylic mixture that will be just perfect for cool summer nights.

The second is with Lorna's Laces Supersport in the Tuscany colorway. This was gifted to a friend and she loves it. She has it proudly displayed on the side of her sofa.

2007-03-22T09:50:00.000-05:00

No, I didn't fall in....

to the toilet or the black hole that is my town. Things have been hectic and the thing that was waylaid was this blog. Welcome back!

I have been busy. I managed to finish a few shawls. I just finished two Swallowtail Shawls. One was using Lorna's Laces Supersport in the colorway Tuscany. I'm not too thrilled with it, as I feel that the variegation and the lace pattern compete, but the recipient just adores it, and that's what counts. And the other is made using GGH's Capri in a beautiful aubergine. This one now has a place of honor, sitting regally on the back of my knitting chair in my bedroom.

The new International Scarf Exchange 4 is about to start. This is my third exchange and each and everyone has surpassed my greatest expectations. This is the very first exchange that I have been assigned to someone that is not in the States, the good ol' United States, that is. Here, I had been thinking of knitting a summer scarf. I have never done one before so the ideas were ricocheting in my head. Then, reality hit. Where my exchangee lives, winter is starting. So, out with the cotton/silk and in with the wool! Back to the drawing board.

2007-01-27T19:35:00.000-05:00

Manos.. gone bad

I signed up for a drop spindle class. Yes, that's right. I am now attempting to join the spinning ranks. My first class was this past Tuesday. I arrived early, eager to begin my newest endeavor. This wonderful lady, Kate, was leading the class. She hands us our spindle and some top. It was a bit awkward and I did a meager attempt at creating yarn. Kate was oh so encouraging, telling me that my spindle was looking wonderful. But, isn't that what teachers are supposed to say? But, as I peeked around the room, lo and behold, mine didn't look too shabby. Then again, I had never done anything like this before. I was in awe how just a simple spinning motion could create yarn. I mean, I can create yarn.

I left the class with a bit of the top and intentions of practicing some more at home. After many, many hours, I was able to accomplish this......

Yes, it does look like some Manos gone bad, but I'm proud of it none the less.

I returned today for my first "spin" at the wheel. I have yet to take a picture of my wheel endeavor, but trust me... it looks just a bit better. Not too much better, just a wee bit better than the above. I am on my way. Down the slippery slope I go.

2007-01-26T15:57:00.000-05:00

My Pal.... She's the greatest!

The final package came from my SP9. It seems that she is this very nice lady, Diane, who hails from Pennsylvania. It seemed that the packages became more special with each and every one. The last package contained The Shoalwater Shawl, another pattern by one of my all time favorite designer, Evelyn Clark. Diane couldn't decide what color merino lace yarn to send with it, so she sent both: a dramatic black and a intriguing cranberry. She left the choice up to me and both colors are fabulous.

She also included a very special scarf that she made just for me. Anyone can go and buy things and send, but to take time and create something for someone else is so special. She made an adorable lace scarf from "Last Minute Knitted Gifts" from beautiful Opal Mosaic yarn in a fabulous black with the subtle hint of purple. Oh, so lovely. It will be cherished always, for I know that it came directly from the heart.

But, Diane and I have GOT to be soul sisters. When I received the first package, I had the most horrendous chapped lips. And what did her next package contain? None other than some very soothing lip balm. I was in dire need of a darning needle. I found this out while attempting to sew the seam on all those clogs. I was shopping in a LYS this week and I had a darning needle on my list, but I forgot to buy one. But.... What did this last package contain? You got it! A darning needle set in that cute little Chibi container! Again, she nailed it! How does she do it? It is downright eerie!

2007-01-18T13:02:00.000-05:00

Ene's Shawl

I finished this quite sometime ago, and it was gifted to my mother. I was visiting her in Florida when it was completed, and my sister helped me block it. I didn't have my camera with me, so I didn't get to take a picture of it.

My Mom had the shawl with her when she visited at Christmas, so I seized the opportunity to take a picture of it....

Yes, it did come out rather large. That is an oversized chair that it is draped upon. I had 20 houseguests for the holidays, so please, forgive the clutter.

Obligatory Stats:
Pattern: Ene's Scarf
Designer: Nancy Bush in "Scarf Style"
Size: 95" x 40"
Yarn: Henry's Attic Superwash Kona (gobs and gobs and gobs of it)
Needles: Addi Turbo Size 9

2007-01-02T11:29:00.000-05:00

Yikes.... I've been tagged!

Tag, I'm it. I have been tagged by Gigi . I have never been tagged before, so I am taking this as an honor.

THE RULES: Each player of this game starts with the 6 weird things about you. People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own 6 weird things as well as state the rules clearly. In the end, you need to choose 6 people to be tagged and list their names. Don't forget to leave a comment that says you are tagged in their comments and tell them to read your blog.

SIX WEIRD THINGS ABOUT ME:

1. I am deathly afraid of heights. It doesn't matter whether it is the upper deck of Yankee Stadium, or the top of the Empire State Building, or the top of a 6 ft ladder. I immediately go into a panic attack with just the thought of being up high. The kids have gotten many a kick of scaring the begeezus out of mom when in a "high-altitude" situation.

2. I have OCD. I become OBSESSIVE with everything that I do. I can NOT do anything half-way. I have to do everything 150%, or I don't do it all. Sometimes that is a good thing, but at other times, it is a curse.

3. I love challenges. Do not even try to tell me that something can't be done. I will rise to any challenge. I am like Schwartz in "A Christmas Story" with his tongue on the flag pole. I triple dog dare you!

4. I am a chicken. I can not stand to watch scary movies. I will be needing to check the closet and under the bed, and sleep with the lights on for weeks.

5. I love to sing. I did not say that I could sing; I just love to! I sing anywhere and everywhere, much to my family's dismay. The kids would always ask, "What did you do with the money?". I would answer, "What money?". "The money Grandma gave you for singing lessons. Ha Ha Ha." Kids. You gotta love them.

6. It is ironic that as a child, I passed out at the sight of blood. As an adult, I chose to be a Physician Assistant.

So, tag. You're it... Bonnie, Mari, Becka, Cynthia, Bettina, and Kelly D

2006-12-13T20:18:00.000-05:00

My Secret Pal is the greatest!

Am I the only one who just can't wait to open a package when it comes? I always see people who have pictures posted of the wonderful, scrumptious wrapping and then oh so slowly reveal what is inside. Do I do that? No. Not me. Nope. I just can't seem to control my anticipation. I get that package and I have to dive right in.

So, this week, when a beeeeutiful package arrived from my beloved pal, did I stop and get the camera. No. Not me. Nope. I couldn't help myself, again. But, in this package was quite a few goodies. Oh me, oh my.

There was the Book "Knit Fix" by Lisa Kartus, a handmade lavender sachet (gosh, I am such a sucker for that scent), candles, gourmet hot chocolate, Ghiradelli chocolates, and a tea bag cozy. The one that I am the most intrigued about was the most adorable little bag. The label said that is was handcrafted in Indonesia. It was imported by HandCrafing Justice that is part of a fair trade initiative to empower women in the developing world. It is so heartwarming that my pal supports such a wonderful program.

Thanks Pal, again. You always brighten my day with your thoughtfulness.

2006-12-10T17:30:00.000-05:00

Christmas gifts and felted clogs and other ramblings...

My entire family will be descending upon the beach house for Christmas. This includes all my children, their appropriate others, my sisters and brothers, their spouses and their children, Grandma and an Aunt. There is no way my home will hold all of the bodies, so we also rented another 4 br house for overflow.

Most of the children are young adults. So, what do you get them? I made clogs. Well, as a matter of fact, I am still making them. If I make my goal, I would have made a total of 15 pairs. That's 30 clogs and 60 soles! If anyone has ever made these know that you dread the soles. It is so tediously boring.

I have 6 pairs done and they are currently in the washer, hopefully "doing what they are supposed to do". Felt dammit! Felt!

Secret Pal 9 Updates
In other news, I did receive a wonderful package from my Secret Pal 9. She is just the most thoughtful thing. This one included Interweave Knits, Fall 2006. It was an issue that I was secretly coveting. She also had some wonderful Evelyn & Crabtree hand cream and some lip balm for my gawd awful chapped lips.

I still have to send my final package to my recipient. I will be giving the Swallowtail Shawl (pictured below) that I have just completed and some other comfort things. So, keep your eye out for a package. It just might be heading in your direction. Do you feel lucky?

2006-11-23T13:04:00.000-05:00

Tada.... Evelyn Clark's Swallowtail Shawl.

I just finished Evelyn Clark's Swallowtail Shawl. This was my endeavor for Lacevember. With only a few days left in the month, I am proud to say that it is finally completed.

I did need to alter the edging just a tad, since I used yarn that I had in my stash, and only had a limited amount. Even with the changes, I think it came out pretty darn good. Lace continues to awe me as it undergoes the blocking metamorphosis from a blob of nothingness into the most beautiful piece of handiwork. It never ceases to amaze me.

Obligatory Stats:

Pattern: Swallowtail Shawl
Designer: Evelyn Clark
Size: 72"x 36"
Yarn: Zitron Kokon by Skakel (Silk/Cotton blend)
Skeins: 3 (525m)
Needles: Size 9 US

2006-11-17T16:26:00.000-05:00

Foula - the Edge of the World Shawl

Lacevember is having a contest for naming the shawl that is pictured here.

I think that a Shetland name would be most appropriate. Therefore, I chose Foula. Foula - the Edge of the World Shawl.

Foula is one of Britain's most remote inhabited islands and leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits. It is truly spectacular. The crofting townships on the narrow coastal strip are dwarfed by the island's five dramatic peaks (Da Noup, Hamnafield, Da Sneug, Da Kame, and Soberlie). On the west coast are Shetland's biggest and most spectacular cliffs.

Foula's natural heritage is exceptionally rich and diverse for such a small area. The name means 'Bird Island' in Old Norse and Foula is designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds, a National Scenic Area and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its plants, birds and geology.

I love the name so much that if they don't choose it, I just might have to go and design a shawl and use it myself!

2006-11-16T16:41:00.000-05:00

I do believe in Angels......

I just received a package from an "Angel" for Secret Pal 8. My Angel was Fawn Pea who hails from North Carolina. She is one talented lady who put together a spectacular package.....

There were some gourmet treats from North "Cackalacky" including Spice Sauce (some hot stuff for chilly nights), Pecan Praline Cookies (because I didn't pack my pecan tree), Cheese Straws (for a genteel visit on the veranda), and some Belgian Milk Chocolate (I don't have to share).

There was a little package with the card asking,".... is it lacevember yet?", containing a luscious skein of baby alpaca. It is screaming to be knitted into Evelyn Clark's "Swallowtail Shawl".

Fawn, thank you...

2006-11-13T10:51:00.000-05:00

Paradise Revisited....

Life has changed.

In the past, my most perfect place to knit was sitting on the beach in Pawleys Island. I would sit under my umbrella, caressed by the wonderful sea breezes and wrapped with the sound of the waves crashing on the beach. And I would knit for hours on end. Not a care in the world, just me and my lace. Ah, paradise....

But life has changed. Now I am in the middle of the Mohave Desert. This might not be an oceanview, but would you look at this.....

This has got to be as close to heaven as one can get.

2006-11-06T11:46:00.000-05:00

Lacevember Contest questionnaire

The knitting questions, or the usual suspects

How long have you been knitting? I have been knitting for just under two years.
How did you learn to knit? From online tutorials, some fabulous forums, and books.
Favorite thing about knitting? I am in such awe over the engineering marvel that knitting is. It is so versatile, challenging and my skills are ever growing.
How long have you been knitting lace? Just about one year. I started with the Branching Out Scarf, then the Dayflower Scarf, then attempted the Flower Basket Shawl for my Olympic Endeavor. Phew, I was so engrossed that I finished it in under 3 days!
Favorite thing about knitting lace. When I finish the project and I block it. I can just stare at it in amazement forever. "Wow. I made that." What a fabulous feeling!

The yarn questions, or flash your stash

Favorite lace yarn? I really don't have a favorite. It is according to what I am making and the effect that I want to achieve. I just amassed a nice stash of Zephyr, so I will be making a few things with that.
Variegated or solids for shawls? I have made a few shawls with variegated yarns, and I just was not happy with the results. I feel that most variegated yarn deter from the beauty of the lace. I hate when the yarn and the pattern competes with one another. One glaring example of the competition would be the Bird's Nest Shawl using Lorna's Laces in the Tuscany colorway. An example of one that does work, would be the Flower Basket Shawl using the Mountain Colors with just a delicate, subtle variegation.
Favorite lace color? I love all colors that are rich, deep, earthy and fully saturated. I love burgandys, rusts, reds, greens, blues. I abhor pastels and gray and browns are my least favorite.

Technique, or show us your skills

Circs or straights? I knit most of my lace using circulars. But, my current project is the Estonian Garden Wrap with Zephyr. I am using straight bamboos. This is the first time that I am using the Zephyr and I'm having a wicked time controlling it. The straight bamboos are giving me enough drag to make it manageable. I am forever learning.
Favorite lace knitting trick? Markers, markers and more markers.
Lifelines? Nah. With markers I am able to find a "mistake" right away and I can fix it right there and then. I haven't ever found a need to (OMG... Lace gawds have mercy on me) frog and rip out.
If so with what? Markers. I use cheap baby hair scrunchies. I can pick up a pack of 50 for under $2. Be sure to get the coated kind, not the rubber band ones used for braces. They come in an assortment of colors, so I can color code my lace patterns.
Fancy blocking wires, or just sewing pins stuck in your carpet? All of my projects have been blocked on my dining room rug using T pins. However, my last project the Estonian Garden Wrap, I was loaned dressing/blocking wires. And all I can say is, "Wow". With the wires I was able to keep a true rectangle shape without any of the dimpling on the straight lines that I would have had pins.

Pattern, or can you follow directions

Shawls or lacey items? Oh Shawls. Definitely shawls. One size fits all.
Triangle, rectangle, or circular shawls? My favorites would be triangle and rectangle. I am in awe of circular shawls, but for the life of me, I just can't get it past my brain that they look like tablecloths.
Charts or printed instructions? Charts.
Favorite lace you've knit? Here you go, asking me to pick my favorite child. I can't do it. I love them all. They each have their own little qualities that make them endearing. If push came to shove, it would have to be Evelyn Clark's Estonian Garden Wrap.
Favorite lace you want to knit? I want to knit them all!

Just Fun, yup that's right, just for fun

Favorite jelly belly flavor? Pina colada
Tell me everything you know about Eric the Red..... Wasn't he some Viking explorer? Didn't he go from Iceland to Greenland? Why Greenland?
Coke, classic or with lime? Oh, I am a classic coke kind of gal. And puleeze, not diet.
Holiday carols, sing along, or wish they would be banned from all public airwaves? Oh, the weather outside is frightful, and the fire is so delightful. There's really no place to go. So let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. (if I had some recording capabilities... you would have heard that being sung, in my true shower singing voice)
What is the definition of irony? I love the ocean and I live in the middle of a desert!
How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie roll pop? None, I bite it.
Why is my cat always puking in front of my son's bedroom door? Ew... Now I know why I don't have a cat.
What is your superhero power? I can get things done by just thinking about them. An example, hmm "think clean toilet." Poof.... It's clean.
If the laundry is 9 foot by 11 foot (just dreaming, that's a big laundry room), and the walls are 8 feet tall, and you are going to tile the entire room in tiles that are 3 inches by 5 inches, what color should those tiles be? Spa-colored sage green. But, I wouldn't worry about any color. With the laundry piled up so high, you won't even be able to see the color of the walls.
What's for dinner tonight? Reservations.
What is clogging my children's bathtub drain? Legos, definitely legos.

2006-11-03T13:16:00.000-05:00

A big, thank you...

Thoroughly exhausted, I arrived at my new home on Monday afternoon. Yep, I have given up the Atlantic Ocean for the Mohave Desert! I had made the 2,300 mile drive from South Carolina to Nevada, cramped with most of my worldly goods in my VW Beetle Convertible. Hubby has been here since August, and I have only now cleared my plate and was able to join him. But, now at the present time, he is not here; he is somewhere in Qatar on business. So, I arrived at an empty house. After 3 days of driving, I pried my tired, spasmed, achey body from the car and headed for the front door, and what to my amazement was there? A wonderful package from my secret pal 9! Oh my! What a wonderful "Welcome Home".

The package contained the most wonderful skein of Opal yarn in the coolest Halloween colors. I have never seen this colorway before and it is really awesome. Also, there were gobs and gobs of my favorite candies: Snickers! But, not just plain Snickers. No. There were all sorts of varieties that I haven't tried yet: Snickers Almond, and Snickers Crunchers. Hmm Hmm. And the cutest Jack O'Lantern stress ball. Now, how did she know that I was a tad stressed out from the tedious drive?

Thank you pal. Your package was just what this girl needed when I arrived in my new home. It was the "hug" that I needed after my long drive.

2006-11-03T13:10:00.000-05:00

WOW!

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
0
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

how/'>http://howmanyofme.com">How many have your name?

2006-10-25T09:05:00.001-05:00

Update:

ISE III
The International Scarf Exchange III is winding down. This had to be my most favorite yet. I was given the opportunity to surprise and spoil Debi. And the scarf that I received from Cathy is so super special. I am having such a great time viewing all the postings of the exchanges. This group has got to be the most creative!

Secret Pal 8
Officially, this exchange ended September 1st. My pal was habitually late and it was always a month after each deadline before I received a package. I never received the final package from my Pal. Oh well, actually I get more satisfaction over doing the spoiling than receiving. And this experience did not stop me from joining the next...

Secret Pal 9
This exchange will be running over the next 3 months. I have received a postcard from my Pal, as well as a few ecards. It is so nice to be thought about. I've been racking my brains out, trying to come up with a spectacular way to surprise my recipient. I love this!

Lacevember 2006
OK.. So, I'm a glutton for these things. But, I joined another. Heck, I'll be knitting lace anyway, so I might as well have some company, and some good company at that!

Til next time.... Knit on!

2006-10-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

Looky, looky......Look what I got!

The mail lady knocked on my door to drop off a very special delivery for me. It is from my international Scarf Exchange Pal, Cathy. Cathy hails from Aurora, Colorado. She did the most fabulous job putting together a very exquisite package. And it's mine, all mine.....

First, the scarf. The picture does NOT do it any justice and for that I apologize. Cathy painstakingly labored on a beautiful rendition of Ivy Bigelow's Midwest Moonlight. She used Elesbeth Lavold's Silky Tweed in a very deep, rich Chocolate brown. It has the most faint flecks of rusts, golds and tans. Silky Tweed is a luscious blend of silk, cotton, and merino to make this a scrumptiously soft scarf. Let the snow begin.

Then, there was this wonderful little brown shopping bag that was just chockful of some glorious finds. There is a book "Girlfriends". I haven't read it yet, but with a few trips on the horizon, I'm sure it will be great plane reading. Then, the most adorable handcrafted knitting needles by Serendipity Designs. Oh, my. I can see the start of a collection beginning to take shape. And the cutest Lantern Moon Sheepie tape measure and a fabulously creative key chain in the shape of a miniature sweater. Hmmm, I wonder if Cathy made it herself. It is just too creative.

Then, the comfort stuff: There are Chocolate covered raisins, umm umm good. And while I am sitting eating the raisins, I will be basking in a warm bath filled with Bath&Body Works warm vanilla bubble bath and sipping on some Bigelow (ah... same name as the designer of the scarf... was Cathy thinking or what?) apple cider herb tea. And finally, there is the cutest tin containing HT Harney & Sons fine teas. It is a Chinese Flower Green Tea, which is described as a beautiful Blend of green tea and three types of flowers accented with citrus flavors. A treasure for the eye and palette. Now, if that doesn't sound fabulous, what does?

Cathy, you have outdone yourself and you have spoiled me rotten. Thanks for one of the best packages that I have ever received. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

2006-10-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

THE JOKE IS ON ME....

I worked so hard on the Estonian Garden Wrap. I went above and beyond what I would have normally done, but you see, I was given the most fabulous, courageous, witty, talented, generous person in the whole world as my exchangee. Being that my pal is so super duper special, my project had to be so special too.

I was given Debi, my hero.

Now, for a little background. During my first ISE, I was so blessed to have been the recipient of Debi's generosity. She had never done lace before, but she toiled and stressed to craft me the most spectacular scarf that I have ever seen. Pictures here of all the goodies. It was sheer perfection. But, the scarf was only the icing on the cake. She made a felted needlecase, complete with bamboo needles, handmade lavender sachets from her garden, oodles and oodles of yarn, eucalan wash, and a whole lot more that was tidily wrapped in the most fantastic treasure chest. I was floored. This was the first time that a total stranger had made something just for me and it was truly beautiful. I also emerged from that exchange having met a true friend.

Fast forward to the current exchange.... Debi and I chat quite often on line. We were so excited about the upcoming exchange and when the pairings were announced and I was given Debi.... WOO HOO! Lordy, lordy... I had been given Debi. I couldn't believe my luck. I couldn't tell her that I was given her, so anonymously I was contacting her as a beginner knitter, hoping that she didn't mind having such a newbie. Deep down, I was giggling to myself, knowing the secret. I now had the opportunity to reciprocate the generosity that Debi had bestowed upon me.

In our daily emails, I questioned Debi asking what her ideal shawl would be- the shape, color, etc. I then set out to make it for her. After much deliberation, I chose the Estonian Garden Wrap, due to its simplicity and understated elegance. And being that Debi lives in the middle of the desert, I chose cotton for the fiber. It was a labor of love and I was just sooooo excited to be able to present it to Debi. She knew what project I was working on for "my" pal, but didn't know it was for her.

A few weeks ago, my husband had a show in Las Vegas. I was going to accompany him and was finally going to have the opportunity to meet Debi. I also had the shawl with me, and completed it while I was in LV. I was chatting with Debi about my project (she didn't know it was for her) and knowing that I finished knitting it, she offered to help me block it. I selfishly took her up on the offer. So, Debi had seen the shawl, loved it, and I was even more excited to anticipate her reaction when she would discover it was for her!

Back in SC, I packed up the shawl. It was wrapped in tissue paper along with a few other knitting goodies, tucked in a hat box and sent on its way to her. My DIL (Kirstin) mailed it from Ft. Bragg, NC.

Well, I have been waiting on baited breathe while the package was in the mail. It was like Christmas morning suspense. The package arrived, and no response. She had been away and finally emailed me last night apologizing. She explained that Kirstin had inadvertently mailed my pal's package to her by mistake! She was so sorry and couldn't stop apologizing.

So, the joke is on me. I was expecting to surprise her with a fabulous package and she wasn't surprised at all. She didn't even know that it was for her! Oh well, the best laid plans.....

2006-10-03T08:38:00.000-05:00

Estonian Garden Wrap

I am participating in the International Scarf Exchange. I have been diligently working on this wrap to present to my pal. I am proud of how it came out, I can only hope that she will like it.

She lives in a warmer climate, so I knitted it with cotton rather than the customary wool. Also, it is not a color that she specifically requested. I am hoping that she will not be disappointed. I am shopping to put a few more surprises in the box and hope to have it shipped in about a week. So, If you live in a warmer climate and receive a package... this wrap might be inside! I am hoping that you will cherish this gift, and accept it in the true spirit in which it was knitted.

Obligatory Stats

Pattern: Evelyn Clark's Estonian Garden Wrap by Fibertrends

Yarn: Rowan's Cotton Glace

Color: Butter

Yardage: 875 (7 skeins)

Needles: size 8 (US)

Size: 80"x24"

p.s. There are few more pictures of the detail over there in my photo album. Go and take a peek.

2006-10-01T19:54:00.000-05:00

Obligatory Post: Secret Pal 9 questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I love knitting with just about everything. I love alpaca, merino, cashmere and cotton. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I don't like mohair (it just seems to itch me to no end), glitzy and novelties.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I store my needles in a Lantern Moon Needle case. It is so practical and luxurious at the same time.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? I have been knitting for 1 1/2 years with the tremendous help of on-line tutorials and wonderful friends. I am still learning. Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I would consider myself an adventurous intermediate. I never met a challenge that I didn't face head on.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No, not really.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.) I recently discovered lavender and love using hand-made sachets with freshly dried lavender when storing my hand-knits. For candles, etc... I love citrus scents, like lemons and oranges.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Oh gosh yes! Love chocolate, especially white chocolate, snickers, peanut m&m's

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I have a great admiration for hand-crafts of all kinds. I have dabbled with quilting, embroidery, woodworking, painting, stained glass and basket weaving, etc. Do you spin? I can envision spinning in the the near future.

8. What kind of music do you like? Rock. Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Yes

9. What's your favorite color(s)? I love all colors that are rich, deep, and fully saturated, especially earthy colors like reds, burgandys, rusts, greens, blues. Any colors you just can't stand? I abhor pastels. I do not care for brown or gray.

10. What is your family situation? I am married to my best friend of 28 years. Do you have any pets? One dog, Skeeter, a Bichon.

11. Do you wear scarves, I love scarves, especially lace ones, more decorative than for warmth hats, mittens Having relocated to the Mohave Desert, I don't have much a need for hats or mittens or ponchos? I haven't worn one since the 70's.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I love knitting shawls... one size fits all!

13. What are you knitting right now? A shawl - my second Estonian Garden Wrap.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? OH YES!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? It depends on what I am knitting. I love my Crystal Palace straight bamboos, Addi Turbo and Denise.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Both

17. How old is your oldest UFO? I don't have one.

18. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas

19. Is there anything that you collect? Do you mean besides yarn, needles, knitting books and magazines? Tee hee. I have an affinity for German Nutcrackers, Gullah Sweetgrass Baskets, antiques, wines

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? Can anyone ever have too much? I don't think so. My stash could always use some enhancement. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I have subscriptions to Rowan and Interweave Knits.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I always try to broaden my horizons. I think that my next challenge will be color work. And of course, spinning.

22. Are you a sock knitter? Yes. What are your foot measurements? Size 10 shoe.

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd) April 25th.

2006-09-26T09:57:00.000-05:00

What happens in Vegas....

I don't know if you all know, but Hubby and I will be relocating out west. It will be a little bittersweet, moving from coastal South Carolina, and heading 2,500 miles west to the middle of the Mohave Desert. Yikes! But, do you know what I will miss the most? No, not the ocean. No, not the humidity. Yep, you guessed it..... Trees!

We have purchased a home in Laughlin, Nevada. Hub has been there since August, and every few weeks, I have been commuting from Pawleys Island. This visit, he has a show in LV, and I dutifully accompanied him. Sigh. Someone had to do it! (grin).

Today, I am off to visit three of the LYS (Gail Knits, Two Crazy Ladies, and Wooly Wonder). I even have a personal local guide, Debi. I "met" Debi about one year ago, while participating in the 2nd International Scarf Exchange. It was my first ever exchange, and perhaps the best one that I will ever be involved in. Besides a most fabulous scarf, I also benefited from getting to know a truly remarkable individual. For the past year, we have been chatting constantly, exchanging emails. And finally, on this trip, we finally met.

Speaking of ISE. I finished the Estonian Garden Wrap while here in LV. Debi lent me her dressing wires and pins and I blocked it on the hotel room floor. I will be posting pictures when I return to PI. I haven't the foggiest notion how to download pictures using Hub's camera. It did come out fine, but I am having doubts if my pal will like it, or if she can even use it. So, I will continue to dabble with a few other projects, in my search of the the ultimate, perfect package.

2006-09-11T07:25:00.000-05:00

September 11, 2006

In Honor of

Christopher J Blackwell

September 11, 2001

On that fateful morning, an alarm was received at the quarters of Rescue Company 3 in the Bronx.

66 - 55 - 8087

Eight men boarded the apparatus.

They never returned.

5 - 5 - 5 - 5

Christopher Blackwell was a truly remarkable human being. He lived each and every day to its fullest. His life touched so many people. He was a true humanitarian who gave of himself selflessly. Chris was a hero. Though, he would never admit it. He was just doing his job. A job that he had been doing for twenty years. A job where he tried to make a difference, no matter how small. Chris lived and died a hero.

Chris left behind his wife, Jane, and three beautiful children, Alexandra, Ryan and Samantha.

Today, I would like to honor Chris, and the other seven men of Rescue 3, Tom Foley, Don Regan, Ray Meisenheimer, Gerry Shrang, Joe Spor, Brian Hickey and Tom Gambino. Remember not only how they died, but how they lived.

To all the brave firefighters of the FDNY, past and present, especially mine: You are my hero. You are the wind beneath my wings.

We Will Never Forget

2006-09-10T10:18:00.000-05:00

International Scarf Exchange

I started my project for the International Scarf Exchange III. I chose Evelyn Clark's Estonian Garden Wrap. The yarn is Rowan's Cotton Glace. Since my pal lives in a warm climate, I thought the cotton would be perfect. According to her questionaire, she likes "jewel" colors. However, in certain light, my "jewel" of a color appears chartreuse. Yikes! I will plod along. Perhaps it will "grow" on me. Whatcha think?

2006-09-09T17:44:00.000-05:00

343 gave their lives

September 11, 2001

Agnello, Joseph/ Ahern, Brian/ Allen, Eric/ Allen, Richard/ Amato, James/ Anaya Jr., Calixto/ Angelini Sr., Joseph/ Angelini Jr., Joseph/ Apostol Jr., Faustino/ Arce, David/ Arena, Louis/ Asaro, Carl/ Atlas, Gregg/ Atwood, Gerald/ Barnes, Matthew/ Baptiste, Gerald/ Barbara, Gerard/ Barry, Arthur/ Bates, Steven/ Bedigian, Carl/ Belson, Stephen/ Bergin, John/ Beyer, Paul/ Biefeld, Peter/ Bilcher, Brian / Bini, Carl/ Blackwell, Christopher/ Bocchino, Michael/ Bonomo, Frank/ Box, Gary/ Boyle, Michael/ Bracken, Kevin/ Brennan, Michael/ Brennan, Peter/ Brethel, Daniel/ Brown, Patrick/ Brunton, Vincent/ Burke Jr., William/ Brunn, Andrew/ Bucca, Ronald/ Buck, Greg/ Burns, Donald/ Burnside, John/ Butler, Thomas/ Byrne, Patrick/ Cain, George/ Calabro, Salvatore/ Callahan, Frank/ Cammarata, Michae/ Cannizzaro, Brian/ Cardinale, David/ Carey, Dennis/ Carlo, Michael/ Carroll, Michael/ Carroll, Peter/ Casoria, Thomas/ Cawley, Michael/ Cherry, Vernon/ Chiofalo, Nicholas/ Chipura, John/ Clarke, Michael/ Coakley, Steven/ Coleman, Tarel/ Collins, John/ Cordicce, Robert/ Correa, Ruben/ Corrigan, James J./ Coyle, James/ Crawford, Robert/ Crisci, John/ Cross, Dennis A./ Cullen III, Thomas/ Curatolo, Robert/ D'Arti, Edward/ Dauria , Michael/ Davidson, Scott/ Day, Edward/ DeAngelis, Thomas/ Delvalle, Manuel/ Demeo, Martin/ Derubbio, David/D esperito, Andrew/ Devlin, Dennis/ Dewan, Gerard/ Dipasquale, George/ Donnelly, Kevin/ Dowdell, Kevin/ Downey, Ray/ Duffy, Gerald/ Eagan Jr., Martin/ Elferis, Michael/ Esposito, Francis/ Esposito, Michael/ Evans, Robert/ Fanning, Jack/ Farino, Thomas/ Farrell, Terrance/ Farrelly, Joseph/ Feehan, William/ Fehling, Lee/ Feinberg, Alan/ Fiore, Frank/ Fiore, Michael/ Fischner, John/ Fletcher, Andre/ Florio, John/ Fodor, Michael/ Foley, Thomas/ Fontana, David/ Foti, Robert/ Fredricks, Andrew/ Freund, Peter/ Gambino Jr., Thomas/ Ganci Jr., Peter/ Garbarini, Charles/ Gardner, Thomas/ Garner, Thomas/ Garvey, Matthew/ Gary, Bruce/ Geidel, Gary/ Geraghty, Edward/ Germain, Denis/ Giberson, James/ Gies, Ronnie/ Gill, Paul/ Giammona, Vincent/ Ginley, John/ Giordano, Jeffery/ Giordano, John/ Glascoe, Keith/ Gray, James/ Grzelak, Joe/ Guadalupe, Jose/ Guja, Geoffrey/ Gullickson, Joseph/ Halderman, David/ Halloran, Vincent/ Hamilton, Robert/ Hanley, Sean/ Hannafin, Thomas/ Hannon, Dana/ Harlin, Daniel/ Harrell, Harvey/ Harrell, Stephen/ Haskell Jr.,Thomas/ Haskell, Timothy/ Halloran, Vincent/ Hatton, Terry/ Haub, Michael/ Hayes, Phillip/ Healey, Mike/ Heffernan, John/ Henderson, Ronnie/ Henry, Joseph/ Henry, William/ Hetzel, Thomas/ Hickey, Brian/ Higgins, Tim/ Hohmann, John/ Holohan, Thomas/ Hunter, Joseph/ Hynes, Walter/ Ielpi, Jonathan/ Johnston, William/ Jordan, Andrew/ Joseph, Karl/ Jovic, Anthony/ Juarbe Jr., Angel/ Judge, Mychal/ Kane, Vincent/ Kasper, Charles/ Keating, Paul/ Kelly, Thomas/K elly, Tom/ Kelly Jr., Richie/ Kennedy, Thomas/ Kerwin, Ronald T./ Kiefer, Michael/ King Jr., Robert/ Krukowski, William/ Kopytko, Scott/ Kumpel, Kenneth/ Kuveikis, Thomas/ Laforge, David/ Lake, William/ Lane, Robert/ Langone, Peter/ Larsen, Scott/ Leavey, Joseph G/ Leavy, Neil/ Libretti, Daniel/ Lillo, Carlos/ Linnane, Robert/ Lynch, Michael/ Lynch, Mike/ Lyons, Michael/ Lyons, Patrick/ Maffeo, Joseph/ Mahoney, William/ Maloney, Joseph/ Marino, Kenneth/ Margiotta, Charles/ Marchbanks Jr.,Joseph/ Marshell, John/ Martin, Peter/ Martini, Paul/ Mascali, Joseph/ Maynard, Keithroy/ Mcaleese, Brian/ Mcavoy, John/ McCann, Thomas/ McGinn, William/ McGovern, William/ Mchugh, Dennis/ McMahon, Robert/ McPadden, Robert/ McShane, Terence/ McSweeney, Timothy/ McWilliams, Martin/ Meisenheimer, Raymond/ Mendez, Charles/ Mercado, Steve/ Miller, Douglas/ Miller Jr., Henry/ Minara, Robert/ Mitchell, Paul/ Mingione, Thomas/ Modafferi, Louis/ Mojica, Dennis/ Mojica, Manuel/ Molinaro, Carl/ Montesi, Michael/ Moody, Thomas/ Morello, Vincent/ Moran, John/ Mozzillo, Christopher/ Muldowney Jr.,Richard/ Mullan, Michael/ Mulligan, Dennis/ Murphy, Raymond/ Nagle, Bob/ Napolitano, John/ Nelson, Peter/ Nevins, Gerard/ O'Berg, Dennis/ Oblschlager, Douglas/ O'Callaghan, Daniel/ Ogren, Joseph/ Oitice, Samuel/ O’Keefe, Patrick/ O'Keefe, William/ Olsen, Eric/ Olsen, Jeffery/ Olsen, Steven/ O'Rourke, Kevin/ Palazzo, Jeffery/ Palmer, Orio J./ Palombo, Frank/ Pansini, Paul/ Paolillo, John/ Pappageorge, James/ Parro, Robert/ Pearsall, Durrell/ Perry, Glenn/ Petti, Philip/ Pfeiffer, Kevin/ Pickford, Christopher/ Phelan, Kenneth/ Powell, Shawn/ Princiotta, Vincent/ Prior, Kevin/ Prunty, Richard/ Quappe, Lincoln/ Quilty, Michael/ Orourke, Kevin/ Otten, Michael/ Quinn, Ricardo/ Ragaglia, Leonard/ Ragusa, Michael/ Rall, Edward/ Rand, Adam/ Regan, Donald/ Regan, Robert/ Regenhard, Christian/ Richard, Vernon/ Riches, James/ Rivelli Jr., Joseph/ Reilly, Kevin/ Roberts, Michael/ Roberts, Mike/ Rocco Jr., Anthony/ Rodriquez, Anthony/ Rogan, Matthew/ Rossomando, Nicholas/ Rubach, Paul/ Russell, Stephen/ Russo, Michael T/ Ryan, Matthew L./ Sabella, Thomas/ Santora, Christopher/ Santore, John/ Saucedo, Gregory/ Scauso, Dennis/ Schardt, John/ Scheffold, Fred/ Schoales, Thomas/ Schrang, Gerard/ Sikorsky, Gregory/ Siller, Stephen/ Smagala Jr., Stanely/ Smith, Kevin/ Smith Jr., Leon/ Spear Jr., Robert/ Spor, Joseph/ Stack, Lawrence/ Stackpole, Timothy/ Stajk, Gregory/ Stark, Jeffery/ Suarez, Benjamin/ Suhr, Daniel/ Sullivan, Christopher/ Sweeney, Brian/ Tallon, Sean/ Tarasiewicz, Allen/ Tegtmeirer, Paul/ Tierney, John/ Tipping II, John/ Tirado Jr., Hector/ VanHine, Richard/ Vaskis, Francis/ Vega, Peter/ Veling, Lawrence/ Vigiano II, John/ Villanueva, Sergio/ Virgilio, Lawrence/ Wallace, Robert/ Walz, Jeffery/ Warchola, Michael/ Waters, Patrick/ Watson, Kenneth/ Weinberg, Michael/ Weiss, David/ Welty, Timothy/ Whelan, Eugene/ White, Edward/ Whitford, Mark/ Weinberg, Michael/ Wilkinson, Glenn/ Williamson, John/ Wren, William/ Wooley,David/ York, Raymond

Never Forget

Pray for the soldiers that now fight to keep the freedom that we live with everyday.

2006-09-09T16:51:00.000-05:00

One Skein Exchange
A package arrived for me this week. It contained the fabulous scarf pictured above. It was from Heidi, my One Skein Exchangee. Isn't the scarf just gorgeous? She used Mountain Colors fingering weight in the most fabulously rich earthy Autumn colors that I just adore. And since I live in a warm climate, its being light weight is perfect. This is the time of year, when as a born and bred New Yorker, I pine for the smells, sounds and visions of the season. Heidi, thank you for sharing this small piece of Autumn with me.

2006-08-22T14:56:00.000-05:00

International Scarf Exchange III

Registration for the ISE III is currently underway. I would highly recommend this exchange to anyone. This will be my second round and I am so looking forward to this. If you want further information... click on the ISE III button ... that one over there on the right... go down just a tad... that's it... now click it.

2006-08-11T20:42:00.000-05:00

IT ARRIVED!!!!

My July package from my Secret Pal 8 arrived. I just got home from work and there was a package waiting. Nick had dinner on the table, but dinner would just have to wait! I had a package to devour first!

The package was a little late, as my pal had been super busy. But, let me tell you, this package was definitely worth the wait. There were two skeins of the most scrumptious merino yarn, in the most fabulous autumn colors. My favorite. Very rich and just a subtle variegation. Oh, too delightful. There was also a Lantern Moon needle holder. Now, I know that my needles will be getting spoiled as they are wrapped in such luxury. And THEN... a book.. "Last Minute Knitting." I have had this book on my wish-list and now it is mine, all mine! (insert evil laugh) I have some perusing to do!

Thanks Pal, as always, you have outdone yourself in coming up with a fabulous package. I love it all and I truly feel so special to have you as a Pal. Thank you.

2006-08-10T05:58:00.000-05:00

Exchange Updates:

I have been so bad in posting, and I do apologize. The darn camera just isn't cooperating. I was waiting for someone to help and post with pictures, but it now seems that help could take fooooooreeeeveeeer. So, without further ado....

One Skein Exchange

I spoiled my exchangee, Maia, with a skein of Sari Yarn for June, a skein of Schaeffer Yarn's Anne for July. I used Peace Fleece's Volgassippi Blue yarn and made a booga bag. I embellished it with an angel brooch and ribbons. I was so intimidated by Maia, as she spins and dyes her own yarn. Yikes! It was hard coming up with something that would wow her. I tried my darndest and I hope that I succeeded.

The lovely lady who has me sends the most lovely packages. June was patriotic sock yarn with fabulous white chocolate (she knows that I am such a sucker for the stuff). And July was even better. The package was this outrageous Merino lace weight yarn in the most lusciously deep red. Oh, I have a few lace projects in the wings, and I haven't decided which project to make with this, but it will be fabulously soft. I can't wait to see what she is making me for the final exchange. I feel like a kid at Christmas!

Secret Pal 8

I mailed my final package to Melinda of Chicken without a Head. The series of 3 packages were ever increasing hat boxes filled with yarn and knitting goodies. The last package also included the Kiri Shawl (go look over at my photo album) that I had made with Henry's Attic Superwash Kona. She gushed appropriately on her blog and I think that she likes it.

I did receive my June package, it was a gorgeous alpaca lace weight yarn. It seems that her life is a bit like mine, complete with activities, and she hadn't had the time to complete the July exchange yet. She does keep in touch, so I know that she hadn't fallen off the face of the earth yet!

2006-07-27T08:08:00.000-05:00

Adventures in Paradise

I was cautiously excited about my upcoming adventure to Honduras. I have never participated in anything like this in my life, and had no idea what I was getting myself into. I guess that being a cancer survivor, I had a true need to do this. I was ready... Physically, emotionally and thank goodness, financially.

On Sunday, July 16th, I awoke at 3:00 am. Nick drove, and we arrived at Charleston Airport with plenty of time to make my 6:15 am flight to Houston, where I was to meet the rest of the group.

There were a total of 22 in our group. The volunteers included 2 docs, 2 nps, a few rns, a coroner (I had the biggest hope that we were not going to be using her professional services) and other lay people, as well as yours truly. They hailed from California, Tennessee, Arkansas, Illinois, and South Carolina. We began as total strangers but were to emerged as soul-mates and friends.

We arrived in San Pedro Sula, Honduras at 12 noon. The heat was unbearable, even in the shade. After collecting our bags, we headed for our transportation: a bus straight out of "Romancing the Stone". With the help of our greeters, we packed all the luggage and crates on top of the bus and headed for our destination.

At around 7 pm, we stopped in La Ceiba for dinner. I was hoping for a little local flavor, however, the group leader had chosen Burger King. I haven't eaten at a BK, or any other fast food joint in years, and here I am in a foreign county, partaking in junk food. So, I ordered a cheeseburger and coke. At the BK, we also met our translators for the week. After eating we all herded into the bus and headed for our final destination, Olanchito.

It was around 10 pm when we pulled up to the delightful Hotel Olanchito. It might be considered "comfortable" by Honduran standards, but even a Motel 6 - it ain't. The sign did look a whole lot better by the light of the moon and I am so glad that my attempt to capture it came out. My room (I would be bunking with Jane, a middle school teacher) did have 2 beds, electricity (some of the time), a/c (some of the time) and running water (again, some of the time). Welcome to a third world country. I was asleep before my head even touched the pillow.

My first full day in paradise: Monday, July 17th. The morning came awfully fast. Wake up call was at 5:00 am. I used the facilities, depositing the tp in the bucket next to the bowl. I showered, being careful not to run the water too strong. There was some sort of contraption that heated the water as you used it. If it ran too fast, it couldn't heat it and would come out cold. Now, I was also warned not to let the water in any mucous membranes. So, I quickly ran under the water, lathered up, and then came the torturous task of rinsing off under the dribbly stream of water while holding my breath. Believe me, it was not an easy thing to do. I brushed my teeth using bottled water and splashed on plenty of DEET. After my morning rituals were complete, I joined the group and walked about 5 blocks to breakfast.

After breakfast, we herded into the bus and headed to our first clinic. The landscape was picturesque. We traveled down small dirt roads, pitted with potholes, surrounded by beautiful, lush mountains. I was impressed by the stark contrast of the richness of the land and the poverty of its people. Those are papayas in those trees. We passed fertile pineapple and coffee plantations.

After about 2 hours, we pulled into an area called El Escano. The village consisted of a small church, and three homes. Now, we had been driving in the most desolate area, passing no one and nothing, and I was amazed that within minutes of our arrival, we were surrounded by hundreds of people. We unloaded crates of medicine from the bus and quickly began to organize ourselves to begin clinic.

I was accompanied by Jimena, a beautiful young girl, who would be attending the university in the fall. She spoke wonderful English and was to be my translator for the week. My knowledge of Spanish is crude at best. "Mi llamo es Dorene. Yo hablo espanol un poquito, pero muy mal". But, I must admit that my rudimentary Spanish did pass, and I only needed Jimena's assistance part of the time. And I was soon to discover that a smile is a smile in any language.

The people of Honduras are truly beautiful. We were THE event of the year, and they came, decked out in their Sunday best. It was better than Carnivale. I saw infants, children, teenagers, adults and elderly. They were so gracious for any and all help or medications that we could render. Everyone received medications for parasites, an endemic problem. I did see one toddler that had a irreducible, incarcerated hernia. Our group had a small stash of funds and I was able to arrange for the baby to be transported for a surgical evaluation. Still, with other patients, I felt a bit like the Dutch boy with the finger in the dike. Their needs were great and our resources were limited.

At lunch, a few of the local ladies graciously offered us lunch consisting of carne, frioles, arroz and tortillas. Most of the group declined to partake. But, I had been seeking a bit of the local flavor, and here it was being handed to me. The food was fabulous! Truly fabulous! And it was amazing how they cooked it all on this outdoor clay oven. I was touched with their generosity; these people have nothing, and here they were trying to share with us.

The doors to the "clinic" closed at 4:30. Almost 400 people had been seen by our group. We were all exhausted, working in temperature in excess of 100 degrees. Again, we climbed back into our bus and headed back to Olanchito for dinner and bed. Dinner wasn't worth walking to, however, the bed looked all too inviting after my day.

Five am came awfully fast. My morning ritual was a bit easier this day. We all met for breakfast and I soon found out that 6 members of our group were "down for the count." So, we headed for our next clinic at Tierra Blanca Arenal. My mind was blown away with how truly needy the people were on Monday, but today, if it was at all possible, I think that these people were even more destitute. Again, the local ladies graciously brought lunch, and again it was fabulous. By the end of the day we had seen almost 500 people.

The rest of our days were more of the same. They were days full of beautiful, needy people. Even with their problems, they all seemed to smile. By the end of the week, we had seen 1,800 people, a spectacular feat that I am proud to have participated in. We set up clinics in Baranco, Baraco, Escuela Luis Ances Zoniga, Puerto Escondido and finally the Olanchito Prison.

Of course, I did bring knitting with me. I brought plenty of Sugar and Cream Cotton and I did manage to knit about 3 washcloths every day. By the end of my journey, I had made approximately 30 that Jimena helped by give to the young mothers with babies.

Before heading back to San Pedro Sula, we managed to have a well needed day of rest and relaxation. The group leaders had made reservations at Palma Real Caribe Hotel. It was located on the Caribbean and was such a pleasant surprise after our grueling days of labor. A few in the group headed out for a canopy tour of the rain forest, others to the hot springs and mud baths. I was content to lounge about the pool,with a pina colada in my hand, and take in the most fabulous sunset. And the sunrise in the morning. All is good.

I am looking forward to doing this again. Perhaps Peru in the fall? I wonder how many mittens and hats I can knit before then?

2006-07-15T09:29:00.000-05:00

Signing off...

I am leaving in the morning for Honduras. I volunteered for a medical mission and will be out of the country for the next 2 weeks. I will post about my adventures when I return. Now, off to pack and be ready for a 6:15 am flight!

2006-07-15T09:03:00.000-05:00

WOW!!!!

I arrived home yesterday. There was the most wonderful package, from my Secret Pal, waiting. With great anticipation, I quickly tore it open and I was in total awe of what was inside.

The picture does NOT do this fabulous yarn any justice and for that I truly apologize.

My pal worked hard at finding the most perfect yarn, and she was quite successful. I have never received anything of this quality before and it is truly scruptous.

The yarn is from Land of Legends Alpacas. This exquisitely soft lace weight yarn is spun from 100% aplaca "tui" fleece. Tui is the Incan word for a cria's (alpaca baby) first fleece. The tui fleece is the softest fleece the individual aplaca will produce in its lifetime. Is is wonderfully suited to garments worn next to the skin. The yarn color comes from the alpaca's natural color. No dyes were used in the creation of this yarn.

The Alpacas were loving cared for right in Licking County, my Pal's area. They were in no way harmed to produce this wonderful yarn for special heirloom quality garments. The annual harvesting of the fleece and the birth of their cria represents the full cycle of life that we are privileged to share with these wonderful animals.

According to the label, this particular yarn is made from Hershey's fleece. Hershey was born on the farm in 2003. He is very friendly and loves to have his neck scratched. His color is called dark fawn.

Pal, you certainly did pick out the best. I have never knitted with yarn of this quality and I am SO looking forward to choosing a project that will enhance its pure beauty.

Thanks

2006-07-06T23:06:00.000-05:00

On the road again....

Hubby and I are traveling out west.

We arrived in LV on Saturday night and spent the most fabulous night at the Tropicana. It seemed we arrived rather late, and it was a shame, but they had to upgrade us. Now, I am NOT speaking a little upgrade. I am talking SUPERSIZED upgrade. I found myself a little giddy, spending the night in the Parissan Suite. It was 2 floors of pure heaven: complete with a sauna. We did have to leave the following morning for our final destination..... Laughlin, Nevada.

We have been staying at Harrah's on the Colorado River. This is a far cry from the suite at the Tropicana, but it is lovely just the same. We watched the fireworks on the 4th while having a romantic dinner.

I will post some outrageous photos on return home.

2006-06-26T12:15:00.000-05:00

The Kiri is complete!

Here she sits on a post in my garden. Isn't she beautiful? I can't believe just how easy and fast that it worked up. Am I getting better at lace, or was this just a simple pattern? Either way, I just LOVE how it worked up.

I used Henry's Attic Kona Superwash, about 8 oz, using my Addis size 8.

I thought that I had GOBS of this yarn left, so I cast on for the Ene Scarf. I am almost finished the 3rd repeat of chart #3, and I have almost used a full pound of the Kona. Oh well, it will most definitely NOT be a scarf, but a shawl instead.

2006-06-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

One Skein Exchange

Look what the postman brought for me today......

........a wonderful package from my One Skein Exchange Pal, Spinning Doc.

I love surprises and Spinning Doc sure did outdo herself. I adore the sock yarn and how wonderful it is in celebration of the 4th of July, with its patriot red, white and blue. And of course, she had to placate my sweet tooth and love of white chocolate. The bark that she included is from Montana. I couldn't wait until the photo was taken and I tore open the package and I must confess that it is truly delicious. And, only she could find a card from a Secret Pal.

Spinning Doc, thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

2006-06-17T08:59:00.000-05:00

She liked it! She liked it!

My Secret Pal has received her package and she liked it, she really did like it! She will just have to wait until next month, when the package will be even bigger! Gosh, this is so much fun!

2006-06-11T09:22:00.000-05:00

Busy, busy, busy.....

I get so jealous reading others blogs, seeing how good you all are at keeping your blogs and posts so up to date. How do you all do it?

Amazing Lace ~
I had the cutest idea for the Amazing Lace posting. I am so computer illiterate, I really do need a crash course in "Blogging for Dummies". I really don't think that it will help. I had pictures taken of "the team" but I had the hardest time trying to merge the two. Oh well, I did have the best intentions. Hopefully I will have the bugs worked out before the next challenge.

Secret Pal 8 ~
I have mailed the package for my pal. I hope that she will love it, just as much I had putting the assortment together. The person that has ME has emailed me, saying hi and keeping in touch. I have to admit, that I haven't been as timely with my pal. Pal ~ please forgive me!

One Skein Exchange ~
I mailed off the skein for June. I have the skein for July all picked out and ready to mail. I am still racking my brains over what to knit. Reading forums, I see that others are contemplating wrist warmers and the like. That isn't my style but am so anxiously awaiting for her to reply to my emails so I can get a better idea of just what she would like.

Knitting Adventures ~
I completed the Kiri Shawl. I used Henry's Attic Superwash Kona. The pattern was, perhaps, the simplest lace pattern that I have done to date. Now, was it really the easiest pattern or am I getting very comfortable with lace, that it seemed easy? Again, I am having the hardest time getting a photo here... so please go and take a peek at it in my Photo Album.

I was working on the Knit Your Own Mystery Pi Shawl. While plodding along on the fourth clue and I realized that I didn't like it. I just didn't care for the lace patterns that I had chose; they didn't "coordinate" with one another. (IMHO) So, the darn thing was frogged. I do have plans on doing my own KYOMPI, because it really is one heck of an ingenious idea. I just wish I was clever enough to think of it myself.

So, after the frogging episode of the KYOMPI, I cast on for the Ene Shawl. I have "gobs" of the Kona, so I am using it again. More later on its progress.

Beaching ~
It's that time of the year again. Hubby has the umbrella and chairs all set up. That chair is calling to me, so it's time to grab the knitting and head on out......

2006-05-20T08:59:00.000-05:00

Exchange Update:

I have emailed both my recipients and I have only heard from my SP8 pal. It seems she is one talented lady who spins as well. I enjoy reading her blog and she seems to have the same tastes in yarn, colors and projects, so I don't think that I will be having a problem finding just the right surprises.

I haven't heard from my One Skein Exchange recipient. However, I peeked at her blog, and OMG... I don't think that I will ever be able to top the wonderful yarns that she spins and dyes herself! It will the ultimate quest..... What do you give a person who has everything?!? I do wish that she would respond, so perhaps she could give me a clue on what might be a wonderful surprise.

Both the Pals that have ME have contacted me. They sound as excited as I am, if that is at all possible!

I started browsing a LYS in the hopes of finding a new, scrumptious yarn that I have yet to discover, and indeed, I did happen upon one that had eluded me. Have you ever touched Debbie Bliss' Silk? It was pure heaven! I am such a sucker for the soft stuff. It was a BIT pricey, but my mind churning all the possible projects that one or two skeins could make. Ummmm. I think that my OSE might be getting one of these! What do you think? Would it be a good choice?

2006-05-13T11:01:00.000-05:00

Sssssshh....... Can you keep a secret?

I finally received the names of my secret pals. I am participating in two exchanges over the next few months: the Secret Pal 8 and the One Skein Exchange.

I will love shopping for another knitter, in the hopes that they will love what I ultimately decided on sending. What a way to force myself to broaden my horizons and trying new and different yarns, styles and techniques. Ok, so you will not have to twist my arm too hard, yea right, as if I were in need of further enabling. I will torture myself with choices and hopefully will decide upon the ultimate, the most perfect gift.

Let the shopping begin...

2006-05-04T05:24:00.000-05:00

SECRET PAL 8 questionnaire:

Here are my responses for the questionnaire:

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I don't have any particular brands, per se, but I do adore working with soft, scrumptuous yarns, like merino, cashmere. As a fairly new knitter, I am still experimenting and discovering all fibers. NO, NO, NO, NO Lion Brand Homespun or Red Heart Acrylics, or Foo-Foo of any sort.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have two holders. My first was the luxurious Lantern Moon needle holder that I bought for myself. It is amply large enough to adequately organize all my needle needs and other "stuff". My second, was made for me by a very special friend. She knitted it, felted it and lined it in an outrageous vintage Hawaiian fabric.

3. How long have you been knitting?
I began knitting in January 2005.

Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
Can I add another choice? I consider myself to be adventurous. I just love all the truly remarkable challenges that knitting affords me. If I had stayed within a particular category, ie beginner, etc., I would have never attempted my first aran sweater after only been knitting for 3 months!

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
This is it! http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1RZLJWFFAI328/102-4845485-4696947

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
I love fresh, clean scents, like citrus. I just discovered a new fragrance that I love.. Lavender. A friend sent me a few sachets that she made with lavender from her garden. It makes my yarn smell so fabulous.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Oh, yes! I love chocolate, especially white chocolate.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have done and tried it all, from needlework, quilting, painting, stained glass, basketmaking, etc. I love being able to immerse myself in the process of creating things. I haven't done spinning... yet!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like classic rock (Jimmy Buffet, Eagles, Grateful Dead, Traveling Wilbury's, Tom Petty) and today's rock (Dave Matthew's, Mighty Mighty Bosstones). I can't stand rap and hip-hop.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love rich, saturated, earthy tones. My palette can span the entire spectrum as long as its fully saturated color... from deep greens, to burgandys, to blues. I abhor pastels!

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married to my best friend of 28 years. He recently retired from FDNY and we are now living at the beach, enjoying life. We have 4 grown children, ages 25, 24, 23 and 21. No grandchildren yet, unless you count Zelia and Lucy, my son's retrievers. We have two dogs, Samantha, a golden and Skeeter, a bischon with a horrid Napoleon complex.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Scarves.. yes! Hats.. Sometimes! Mittens.. No need. Ponchos.. Not since the 70's.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I love knitting it all, from scarves, to lace shawls, to sweaters, to shells, to hats, to socks.

13. What are you knitting right now?
I am currently working on the Kiri shawl.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Oh, yes! Please!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
It is all according to what I am making. For circulars, I love my Addi's and for straights, I love my Crystal Palace bamboos.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, and yes.

17. How did you learn to knit?
Self taught with the assistance of on-line tutorials and fantastic knitting forums.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?
I don't have any. I am afflicted with OCD.. and have to finish everything.

19. What is your favorite holiday?
Oh, that has got be Christmas.

20. Is there anything that you collect?
I collect handmade baskets (sweetgrass, etc) and German Nutcrackers.

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I have a weakness for scrumptious yarns, any yarn. I don't have a subscription to any particular magazine. I like going to B&N and browsing through them before I buy. I recently discovered Rowan magazines (where have I been!)

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I love it all... from cables, to lace. My next challenge will be spinning, but I really don't want to start that for quite some time.

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes! I wear size 10 shoes! Yes, I do have big feet!

24. When is your birthday?
April 25th.

2006-04-25T11:31:00.000-05:00

Flower Basket Shawl

It is finally finished. I have to admit it, this is one of my most favorite patterns in lace. As a beginner, it was easy and really boosted my self-confidence.

Below are pictures of the FBS....

Blocked & Unblocked

Here are some close-ups....

I used 3 1/2 skeins of Sinfonia's Omega, 100% cotton.
Finished size is approximately 85" x 40".
The color is not a favorite, but as a stash-buster, it was great.

Now... to figure out what to do next.... decisions, decisions.....

2006-04-23T12:04:00.000-05:00

Cruisin'......

Having just returned home from a Caribbean cruise, here I sit... revitalized, renourished and replenished.

2006-04-08T08:13:00.000-05:00

Which Muppet am I?
Well... see for yourself...

You Are Miss Piggy

A total princess and diva, you're totally in charge - even if people don't know it.
You want to be loved, adored, and worshiped. And you won't settle for anything less.
You're going to be a total star, and you won't let any of the "little people" get in your way.
Just remember, piggy, never eat more than you can lift!

The Muppet Personality Test

Tee hee...... Oh so true!

2006-04-05T20:49:00.000-05:00

Working hard....

Still plugging along on my second Flower Basket Shawl. As you may recall, my first FBS was my first plunge into the shawl world. I had chosen it for my Olympic endeavor and amazed myself in finishing it before the first week was over. I even added a few extra repeats to make it larger. (a little of my OCD showing there)

I had some of this Sinfonia Omega, a 100% cotton, in my stash that was doing absolutely nothing. Until one day, it started to call out to me.... "Make me into a shawl." Now, not ever being able to say no to yarn of any sort, I just had to give it a whirl.

I started the 3rd skein today, and still working diligently.