Pictures from the last three weeks knitting.

Here is a picture from the parade on Saturday in Parker. The rest are pictures of what I've knitted the past three weeks. There were a few other hats and dishcloths, but this post was getting overrun with pictures already.

Some are unfinished items that are now finished and others are my ongoing charity items. Working on a knitted teddy bear, socks, baby sweaters and the cable scarf now.

Sure wish we'd get some Summer weather. We have been getting rain most every day and are lucky if it gets up in the 70's. I did ride my bicycle to the post office today instead of taking the car. Was surprised at myself that I didn't have to get off and walk part of it, but I didn't.

Rain, Rain, and More Rain

I seem to remember years ago when the weather was like this. Everything has been really green and the flowers are growing. We could do without the tornados and hail that we have been seeing a lot of lately.

Went to a career continuation workshop the last two days. Networking, networking, networking, that seemed to be the theme throughout the two days. Most jobs nowadays aren't posted in the newspaper and your odds of finding something increase by the number of people you know.

I've made a couple of lace scarves, finished some more items in my unfinished pile, and am now working on a cable scarf. This is my first attempt to work with cables and it is coming right along. Actually pretty proud of myself. Just don't want to work on it if I'm distracted. My current progress on this is attached.

Attached are a couple of pictures of the tornados we saw on Sunday while on our way home. One actually hit east of here and did some major damage to the big, new mall. We were thankful no one was killed and only one person was hurt. The person that was hurt, went outside to take pictures when he should've been in a basement. Tornado threw him and banged him up a bit. Don't want to mess with mother nature.

A picture of little Miss Lilo when the sun was out and pictures of the poppies and the pink lilac bush in bloom.

Some pictures from the weekend!

Saturday was the baby shower for grandson that is due in July. Pictures of the cake, the baby set; baby blanket, and towel set I made. Then there is a picture of the quilt that Rayann made for her baby boy. Picture of my Mom and Gramma enjoying the festivities.

The sun finally came out today, but it isn't supposed to get back up in the 80's till about Wednesday. The dogs get real cranky when they don't have any sun to lay in. All this rain has really made my flowers grow and everything is so nice and green. Now if we can keep getting rain consistently the rest of the summer, we'll be doing really good.

I've made a dent in my to-do list today, my first day unemployed. Still plenty more to do, but pacing myself. Believe it is time to go knit.

D-DAY at work today!

Well the much anticipated and dreaded day arrived today at work. We knew they were cutting 65 employees and everyone was to be notified today whether they had a job or not. I was one of those impacted and my last working day at work will be this Friday the 22nd. We are officially on payroll until the 26th so we will get paid for the holiday.

I was surprised since my workload was so heavy, but I guess I didn't fit with the restructuring and "picture" of the company going forward. So it'll be onward and upward to find the next adventure/chapter of my life after next week.

They let everyone affected go home with pay for the rest of the day to get themselves together to work out the rest of the week. I cleaned out all of desk and personal items so I wouldn't have to do that later in the week.

So, if you hear of a job, please let me know.

Sunny after a rainy weekend!

Don't you know it would be nice once the weekend is over. We did get some household chores done this weekend while it was cold and rainy. Hubby put in an attic fan so we can cool the house off without using the A/C and that should be cheaper.

We have our backyard all set up, flowers planted, canopy up, etc. Really a nice retreat when the sun is out and it's warm. Planning on going out and doing some knitting before hubby gets home.

One week from today we'll learn who the 65 people are that they are cutting from our office. Equivalent to about 1/4 of the people. I'll just be happy to have it over with and know one way or another. I can adapt, but need to know so I can plan.

The latest from Wet Colorado!

So after working 10 hours on the last day of April and dealing with a paranoid psycho manager, I met hubby for dinner at Red Robin to split a hamburger. Then I was off to find the Tattered Cover Book store in Highlands Ranch to see Debbie Macomber. As usual, I arrived early, but that was good. I was able to snag a seat in the front row and sit and knit while waiting. Debbie arrived and then they made her wait till exactly 7:30 to start. She talked for half an hour and then signed books. Now I know why I enjoy her books so much. We have a similar background, she had 4 kids in 5 years whereas, I had 5 in 8 years. She is a very interesting and funny person. It was a joy and pleasure getting to meet her.

Saturday, I was off to the Stock Show Complex to the Alpaca show. Lots of cute furry animals. Lots of vendors, but all I bought was two bars of soap for gifts. I just couldn't see buying any of the yarn, when I have so much already that I need to use. From there I went to ARC to see what the finds would be for the day. Got a toaster to replace the dead one at the lake; found lots of wool yarn for a fraction of the cost of what it was at the Alpaca Show; some more workpants and shorts. With my middle age spread, I need bigger pants and tops. Don't know why I waited till middle age to develop a figure. It is taking quite some getting used to.

Got my packages ready to take to the post office after work on Monday. Big box finally going to the Navy Marine Relief Society for the babies of the military. Done to the feet on a pair of regulation socks for the Socks for Soldiers group. Given that there are 40,000 stitches for a pair of these, it takes a while.

Looks like it may finally quit raining and the sun may actually come out today. Everything is so green and all of the trees have already leafed out.

This week the last week of April!

Sunday was not a day we want to repeat EVER AGAIN!!! We went to the lake to open up the motorhome over the weekend. Sunday morning, BJ was organizing cupboards when we suddenly noticed that the dogs were eating something. NOT GOOD!!! Between the three of them, they ate an entire block of mouse poison. Frantically, we called our son the vet to find out what to do. He told us to give them peroxide and it'd make them vomit. Went to the neighbors and they had some and proceeded to force that down them until all had emptied their stomachs! We now know to always have peroxide on hand.

Got ready to come home and Lilo locked the truck doors. Deaf dog locked in the truck with both sets of keys, cell phones, etc. After a lot of patience and perseverance, BJ was able to get the coat hanger to where he could hit the button to open the doors.

Needless to say, we were thankful to get home in one piece! One picture is of the three dogs laying in the backseat exhausted on the way home.

Monday, we awoke to more snow! What a surprise, fortunately, it didn't hang around long and now we are back to Springlike weather.

A couple pictures of the multitude of baby items that I've finally finished. Soon to go to the Navy Marine Relief Society.

Meantime, it's end of month, end of quarter, and end of half at work. Absolute hell! Tomorrow is the last day so maybe everyone will start acting normal again or as normal as it ever gets. Layoffs are to be announced May 18th. Not a fun place to work at the moment, but I'm more concerned about catching this darn swine flu than being laid off. I can always get another job, but health isn't something you can replace.

With any luck, I'm going to a book signing tomorrow evening with Debbie Macomber. She's in town to push her new book, Summer on Blossom Street, which is the third in the knitting series. I already have my book and hope to go and have her sign it. Figure I'll need some "me" time after tomorrow is over at work.

This weekend is a fiberfest and alpaca show at the National Western Stock Show complex and I'm hoping to escape to fondle some fur and yarn for a few hours.

Happy Birthday Lisa!

Happy Birthday Lisa, today would've been your 25th birthday! Remembering you on your special day.

Happy Easter!

Sure glad I don't have anyone wanting to hunt Easter Eggs here. Cold, rainy, gray day. Wouldn't be much fun! We do need the moisture though.

I've been in a finishing mood lately. WAY TOO MANY projects started so am working my way through some of those. Pictures of the latest batch of socks that are finished. Now to get the basket of baby sweaters finished with buttons on them. Working to fill a box for the Navy Marine Relief Society for the babies being born to the military.

Got my hair cut again on Friday since it'd been a month. She cut it a little shorter this time. I like it, but I'm sure BJ doesn't since he isn't saying anything. Being a low maintenance person, this type of hair style works for me and keeps it out of my face. Do you have any idea how hard it is to take a picture of yourself without looking complete stupid?

He's been on call all week with several this weekend so I've had plenty of time to work on projects around the house and knit.

A more recent picture of the dogs. Lilo is growing like a weed and has doubled her weight and size already. Took her for her last batch of puppy shots this week. Do you know how hard it is to drive with a dog standing on your lap looking out the window? What a pain! She looks like Stitch so much that I can see it will be difficult to tell them apart when she gets the same size as him. They also have the same personality and her being deaf hasn't slowed her down any. She just doesn't wake up unless you touch her. Must be nice to be able to sleep so soundly.

Work was frantic all week with the teammate gone on medical leave for an indefinite time. We've identified several areas of improvement needed and I'm training a new person to assist with the workload. With any luck, we'll get everything cleaned up and standardized within the month. It is quarter end and half end, so there is a real crunch to get all revenue issues fixed by month end. One good thing, I've been too busy to snack so already lost the 5 lbs. I gained on vacation.

Hope you had a wonderful Easter and the sun is shining where you are.

Mazatlan was wonderful!

After having a blizzard, we were thrilled to leave two days later for a week in the sun. We've learned our lesson on travel as far as packing so now only take a carryon and a backpack each. Boy were we ever glad when we got to the airport and we didn't have to stand in the HUGE lines checking bags. Got our boarding passes and went on our merry way.

Two and a half hour direct flight and we were transplanted into warm weather in the 70-80 degree range. Got to the hotel and after 3 tries they got us in a fantastic room above the dock. First room had someone already in it, second room didn't have a balcony, and the third was perfect. BJ could watch the boats come in from fishing everyday and see what the catch was. It was also on the end so not as busy or noisy.

We did go on the City Tour for our anniversary and had dinner at a lovely Italian restaurant. The people we met were wonderful and some are now our new friends. People from Kansas, Chicago, Colorado, New York, Minnesota, California, etc. We thought we'd get stuck with some of the Spring Break crowd, but most were families at our resort.

Mazatlan is still pretty authentic as you will see from the meat at the market downtown. These people don't waste anything and they apparently have a purpose for even the pig's heads. Open containers, no refrigeration, flies flying around, not somewhere I would buy my meat and fresh veggies. Kept thinking, it's no wonder they cook everything well done, put hot sauce on it and drink tequila. It's to kill the ecoli and parasites that inhabit the food. I'm sure it's fine, but they are used to and have built up an immunity to the stuff that us poor Americans get sick from.

We went on a tour of a Tequila farm where they process the agavae and it is still pretty primative and basic on how it's down. Then on to a little village called La Norte, where they do a lot of work in leather. Even the leather scraps are used to make small items to sell. Very unique and different. There was also a beautiful church in the center of town. The man that makes the hurrache sandals, usually makes around 12 pair a day and earns the equivalent of $14 a day. This was a very poor little village. The people are happy though and seem content with what they do have. They use everything and take recycling to a new level.

BJ went fishing with some other men and caught 30 Grouper, we did bring home about 25 lbs. of fish. He was thrilled!

The last day we went on a catamaran that went by this island of seals. They were everywhere and some were quite huge.

We ate too much, slept a lot, and got quite a bit of sun. I did manage to finish a pair of socks while on vacation.

Now back to reality. My teammate/backup went out on medical leave while I was gone, so my workload has just doubled. That should keep me busy and hopefully provide job security for a while.

WOW! Awesome Secret Pal Present!

Check this out! We had almost 80 degree weather yesterday and then snow this morning. Made for a lovely day. NOT! The mailman was late, but he brought me an awesome final present from my secret pal, Delana in Ohio. She had special ordered me a lace pattern from Fiddlesticks Knitting and it was delayed. This was well worth the wait and what a wonderful surprise. Two skeins of a deep purple in lace weight to make the scarf; a skein of ecco cashmere yarn in natural (so very soft); 5 skeins of Cascade Yarns Bollicine in pretty pastel varigated (merino and acrylic) and absolutely yummy; BIG chocolate covered pretzels; Burt's Bees hand cream and foot cream, which are perfect for our vacation this weekend to Mazatlan; adorable knitting needles that are made in Russia in size 5 (a size I use a lot); lavender soap (perfect for the trip; a dog bookmark (also perfect for the trip); some three dimensional stickers; and a great card.

Really made my day and part of this is going in my bag for the trip. Absolutely perfect timing. Thank you so much for spoiling me.

Happy Birthday to Me Week!

Thank you to everyone for the birthday wishes. Nothing real exciting, but that is a good thing. My girlfriend at work just found out this week that she is having twins. She's lost several so this is a true blessing. Everything is going well and she's optimistic.

BJ got me some flowers, had dinner with his folks, and I went for a haircut. I cut it off short again in a pixie and even got my eyebrows waxed for the first time. Really liked this gal and will definitely go back to her again. She's a master stylist, but she's more my age and knew what I was talking about. She is a master with a razor. So many of the younger gals don't know how to do a good razor cut and with my thick/coarse hair, that works the best. So much easier and I don't feel like a sheep dog anymore. BJ hates it, but that is nothing new. He likes it long, but he doesn't have to take care of it. When you have to be to work at 6:30 a.m., the last thing I want is high maintenance hair. Received lots of cards, some new ladybugs, and some yarn items.

The puppy, Lilo, is deaf so that has been a challenge, but she's doing well. She's growing like a weed and will soon be as big as Stitch. Then he'll be in for it. She is not afraid of him now so that will be interesting.

We leave the 28th for a week in Mazatlan for our 15th wedding anniversary. From what we've heard, the resort areas are still safe to go to. We are really looking forward to getting away.

Productive Knitting Weekend

Had several orders all of a sudden. Still have a blue set to make for another order. The yellow cardigan is a size one. The other two baby sets are for an order and a baby shower.

Saturday was Lilo's vet appointment for her second set of puppy shots. The vet was able to confirm what we already knew. She is deaf. So we have a special needs puppy. Just imagine the serene world she lives in. No wonder she doesn't flinch when the bird squawks or the other dogs growl at her. She is learning sign language and has the dog door down. She is still having accidents, but it has only been a week. Jewel used to growl at her, now she puts a paw on her. Apparently, they have figured out that she can't hear them either. Other than being deaf, she is very happy and healthy. She keeps Stitch entertained as well as us. We just have to pay closer attention to her since she doesn't listen.

Calvin and Rayann came Saturday night so they could fly to Las Vegas on Sunday morning for a vet conference. Good to see them even though it was short. Rayann felt the baby kick while sleeping here. Wonder if that was because it was Lisa's bed and she had something to do with it? Wouldn't surprise me. She's always sending us little messages.

Today is President's Day and my office is closed for the day. So I have an extra day this weekend. Have a few errands to run. The blue baby sweater set, they want elephant buttons on. We'll see if I can find those.

Hope everyone has a great day.

Knitting and Napping

This is a typical Sunday afternoon picture. Me asleep in my chair with now three dogs in our pink fuzzy blanket.

A picture of the cardigan sweater for granddaughter Ashley, she should be receiving it in the mail soon. This is for her to wear to school, nothing fancy, but functional. First time I used the neck down in one piece pattern for a cardigan. It was a great pattern and I'll make more of those.

Wonderful Secret Pal 13 Package Arrived

How about this to make your DAY! Chocolate and more chocolate! Chocolate kisses, chocolate facial mask, a book of yummy looking chocolate recipes, 2 balls of Panda Silk DK yarn in a rich chocolate color, Burt's Bees lotion and hand creme, 4 gorgeous heart shaped stitch markers, and an adorable black felted sheep notions bag.

Totally awesome! A girl can never have too much chocolate! Thank you secret pal.

Meet the latest addition to the family!

This is what we did on Saturday. We had decided to get a puppy to play with Stitch since Jewel is now 9 and not real playful. Stitch has SO much energy! Called the breeder in Sterling, CO, that we got Stitch from, but all the puppies were spoken for. Then this week, she emailed to tell me that one of the buyers had backed out and asked if we were interested in a female brindle. Most definitely AND we have named her Lilo. Yes, we now have Lilo and Stitch. Lilo was born on 11/29/2008 (same birthday as my oldest son) and she is now 9 weeks old. She is so tiny, but full of it. She chases Stitch through the house and doesn't put up with anything from him. She will fit in perfect and keep Stitch entertained. Jewel hasn't decided what she thinks yet, but it took her a while with Stitch too.

The BEAST is Finished!!!

Finished "the beast" last night. My name for hubby's 2XL sweater that took a month to knit. No, I couldn't get him to model it. Yes, this is what happens when you assume that all Red Heart yarn is "no dye lot". He wanted solid gray, but likes the "striping" the yarn did. Knit in one piece from the neck down. Since he's tall and I have to get tall shirts, I overcompensated on the sleeves and ended up having to rip them back and make them shorter. Can you tell I'm glad this is finished. He asked for it so I obliged. Now lets see if he actually wears it.

How about that Super Bowl game? Thought it was awesome that you really didn't know who was going to pull the win out until the end. I was rooting for the under dog, but felt that Arizona at least gave the Steelers a run for their money. So many times it's a blow out and boring.

Started a sweater for the granddaughter to wear to school, they have uniforms and apparently their sweaters cannot have hoods. So this will be a simple cardigan in soft white. New neck down pattern in one piece that I haven't tried so it will keep me entertained.

Still working on my Socks for Soldiers and several pair in the works. Need to get a package of the finished ones mailed. Not sure how soon they'll make it to Ohio with their ice storms and power outages. We complain about our weather, but at least we don't have the ice storms like they do east of the Mississippi.

Off to knit and watch the news.

Latest accomplishments.

I actually baked and cooked. You have to understand, my hubby does most of the cooking these days. I was off on Martin Luther King day and he requested cabbage rolls. So I got busy and made blueberry bread and muffins; couple of dozen dinner rolls and 15 cabbage rolls. It was a great day and I got a lot done by being home along.

Recent knitting has been finishing 3 pair of socks for soldiers and several wash cloths. I'm currently working on a neck-down sweater for hubby and since it's a 2XL, it's slow going. Got past the sleeves yesterday so only have the lower body left. He wanted solid gray so it's a little boring, but perfect for watching tv knitting.

Work has been extremely stressful and there doesn't appear to be any relief in sight. Everyone is stressed about whether we'll have layoffs like so many companies are. Every day we hear of more and more people that are out of work.

As we Remember!

Hard to believe that its been two years already. Seems like yesterday. We miss you so much!

You should see your evil little dog, getting him fixed didn't seem to change his personality. He is one crazy squirrel chaser!

We know you are in a better place and the day will come when we will see you again.

Pictures from last week off of week.

Here are a few pictures from last week when we were still off work and Laura's family was here. Picture of Kayla in her lavender hat I made her and Haley in the hot pink one I made her. Another picture of me taking a nap with Stitch. Sure miss my nap now that I'm back to work.

In the 20's so far today and supposed to stay seasonal in the 40-50 range for the next several days. Currently we don't have any snow since it's been staying in the mountains. Fine with us, gives those skiers their snow and we don't have to drive in it.

Working on socks for soldiers mainly now. First week back to work was a nightmare and I'm glad it's the weekend. Given that I work in a call center (organized day care full of germs), I now have a cold that I'm battling. I was healthy till I went back to work. Everyone seems to have something there. After a while you don't even hear the coughing, sneezing, hacking, it's part of the normal noise.

I did get my iron levels back up to normal so let's hope they stay that way.

BJ has a new hobby of going to the firing range to practice shooting a handgun. It's funny to listen to him and the people he meets. Now maybe he'll understand some of my knitting circles. When you have a common interest the time goes by fast and people share their skills and tools with you.

Off to knit and rest.

Secret Pal 13 - Awesome Package!!!

Check out the awesome package I received from my Secret Pal. After the holiday wildness, this was a wonderful treat!

The New Pathways for Sock Knitters Book One by Cat Bordhi
Ladybug tape measure
knitting theme nail file
lovely handmade stitchholders
burts bees lotion and hand salve
treats for my puppies
two yummy skeins of sock yarn that I'm reserving for ME!
and the most adorable mini-sock keychain

Thank you Secret Pal, you really outdid yourself. Can't wait to play with my new toys and read the book for new sock ideas. I love tape measures and never seem to have enough of them. The keychain will be placed where the dogs won't have an opportunity to even think about getting ahold of it.

Back from Cabo San Lucas

We are back from a lovely week in Cabo San Lucas. The temps were in the 80's the whole time we were there. We had a direct flight and it was only 3 hrs there and back. Less hassle than having to connect. Beautiful resort Riu Santa Fe and we will definitely be going back there again. The area is very safe and unlike some of the other places we have traveled.

We went whale watching one day and saw humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and sharks swimming. Quite the experience since the "boat" was equipped with seats you straddled like a pomel horse. Not very comfortable when hitting waves, especially for the men.

The next day we went deep sea fishing and caught 3 marlin. The largest one we kept and gave to the locals since they'll make good use of it. It was 8.5 ft. long and 114 lbs. Took over an hour to get it in the boat. While fishing a whale came up about 6 ft. from the side of the boat and really startled us. Little too close for comfort for something that big.

The rest of the time we spent at the pool, eating, sleeping, etc. We did a lot of walking and had a ball watching the variety of people. Lots of people from Canada were there and some had been for two weeks. Don't think I could stand to be away from home quite that long.

We are both off the week also from work so will take care of some housework, errands, taking the dog to the vet, etc. Laura and family are supposed to be over the end of the week. It's been really nice not having to get up early. :)

Cold, Cold, Cold!!!!

It got down to -19 last night and may have gotten up to 9 above for the high today. Snowed Saturday night and Sunday. Not a huge amount, but enough to make everything icy and slick. Supposed to be another storm tonight and stay frigid all week.

Can hardly wait to fly out on Saturday to Cabo where it'll be warm. Probably throw our bodies into shock and we'll get a cold. Such as it is.

We did have some fantastic news when son and DIL were here. They are expecting their first child around July 4th. She is doing great and starting to feel better. They are the vet and RN.

Today at work was another lovely holiday message. Today they announced that managers would take a 10% pay cut and us worker bees would take a 5% pay cut effective 1/1/09. Of course, they kept saying that at least we were still employees and they hadn't had to lay anyone off. Also, that there wouldn't be anymore overtime except at month end. I'm sure there were those trying to figure out how much OT they'd need to work to make up for the pay cut. I figure about mid January they'll announce lay offs. Seems to be once a month they send us another morale builder message. I told my team mates that maybe it'll move us to a lower tax bracket. Also, that is why the secondhand stores are doing a booming business lately. I told them at least with -19 they weren't trying to find a place at the Rescue Mission last night to sleep. I'm not sure they got all of the homeless in or not and it'll be tough all week. It also doesn't help that some of those people have trust issues so won't come in from their hiding place under a bridge or wherever.

Now is exactly why I have a HUGE yarn stash. I don't know what I'd do if I purchased for each project one at a time like hubby would like. I'd go crazy!!!

More finished items and an update!

Pictures of the mittens for the grandchildren, these were the first mittens I've ever made. Not near as difficult as I always thought they were. The sweater that I knitted for my mother-in-law for Christmas, it should help to keep her warm. The socks that I knitted son Calvin and his wife, Rayann.

A couple of pictures of the Stitch in the sweater that I knit him. It's hard to get him to stand or sit still and that is why he is so skinny. He is like the energizer bunny.

The pink ribbon top that I finished yesterday for our vacation coming up. It is not a form fitting garment.

My treadmill results came back normal so that was a relief. I go back in a couple of weeks to see if I'm still anemic.

Son, Calvin, and daughter-in-law, Rayann were in town last weekend for a vet conference. We took them out to dinner and found out that they are expecting their first child around July 4th. Yeah, another grandchild to spoil.

We had 6 inches of snow yesterday, but the roads are pretty clear today. Still chilly and will be, but then again, it is December. Amazingly enough, I still see people wearing shorts.

Off to knit!

Here's the Latest from Colorado

Let me see, first off, I taught myself how to make mittens so made a pair for each grandchild to go with their hat and sweater. Now finishing the socks for my son and DIL. They are coming to Denver for a vet conference the 4th-6th. We have reservations at the Texas de Brazil for dinner on the 6th. Dinner and their socks will be their Christmas present.

Went to the doctor on Saturday for my periodic blood work. Mentioned to him that when I walk up 5 flights of stairs, I'm gasping for air as well as when we go to the rec center my heart rate on the stationary bike is 150 after only 10 minutes. So, they just called and I'm scheduled for a stress treadmill test on Dec. 2nd from 3 to 5 p.m. No caffeine for 24 hrs. prior, fasting for 6 hours, etc. Won't I be in a lovely mood?! NOT With my Mom having an enlarged heart and my Dad having had 2 heart attacks, the doctor figures I better get checked. Cross your fingers and say a prayer that it isn't anything major.

They announced more people movement, 11 temps termed, etc. today. We knew it was just a matter of time, but feel sorry for those with it close to Christmas.

I received a surprise call last night from the wife (former marine also) of a marine stationed overseas that received a pair of my socks. He wore them for a couple months and then sent them home to his wife. I guess they are family with a fetish for socks. He sprayed them with his cologne and sent them home with a note. He won't be home till probably February so thought it'd help them get through the holidays. She called to thank me. Totally awesome! I'll have to send her info to my daughter since they are probably neighbors. What a small world.

We decided with the extra time off at Christmas that we really didn't want to sit home for 2 weeks staring at each other. We leave on Dec. 20th and get back on Dec. 27th. We are going to Cabo San Lucas to an all inclusive resort. Supposed to be in the 70-80's there. When we get back, Laura and family will be here for a week to go skiing. That should keep us entertained and between the two events we shouldn't have time to get depressed over the holidays.

One more day of work this week. We will go to Black-eyed Pea for the usual dinner with his folks, no cooking and no leftovers. BJ is on call this week so will probably leave me alone to get all the stuff done on my to-do list.

In the 60's yesterday and today, but by Friday it might snow and will be in the 30's. Won't that be lovely for the people going black Friday shopping. Kohl's opens at 4 a.m. - there is nothing I need bad enough to get up that early to freeze my butt off and fight the crowds.

Hope everyone has a lovely Thanksgiving and try not to eat TOO much! If you venture out on black Friday, may you find all the bargains that you are searching for.

Secret Pal 13 Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I like knitting with superwash wools and especially merino. Use a lot of acrylic for charity work. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? chenille

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? numerous needle storage items.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I taught myself when I was 8 after my grandmother taught me to crochet. I’d consider myself intermediate to advanced in some things.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? no

5. What's your favorite scent? vanilla

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? I used to, but one of the meds I’m on has totally wiped out the sweet tooth. Prefer salty and nutty items now.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I know how to do most crafts and at different times in my life have been as obsessed with them as knitting, but knitting and crochet are my focus now. Some day I’d like to learn to spin, but my hubby says I have to use all of the yarn I already have first.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) A variety, rock, pop, country, classical, jazz, reggae, Yanni. I have an Ipod as well as the ability to play CD’s.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? Pink primarily, but like all colors.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married to BJ for almost 15 years. Five grown children, 6 grandchildren, 2 basenji dogs and an African Gray parrot.

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

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Socks, neckdown sweaters, hats, etc.

13. What are you knitting right now? Socks and two adult sweaters.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Love them!!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Bamboo circulars and straights, depends on what I’m making.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Yes, I have both.

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Years

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe? Don’t really have a favorite. We celebrate Christmas, but it’s different now that the kids are grown.

19. Is there anything that you collect? LADYBUGS

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? DVD on intarsia knitting. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Most, but have let them expire and will not renew.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? How to do intarsia without it puckering and bunching the design.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yes, wear a size 7 shoe.

23. When is your birthday? March 11th

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? I have a membership, but rarely go there.

Pictures of the Grandchildren Sweaters

Here are pictures of the grandkids sweaters that I've made in the past month for them for Christmas. There are two of the camo ones so I didn't find it necessary to take two pictures.

The larger pink varigated one is mine I made first. Now I've started one for my mother-in-law and then BJ has decided he wants one, but it has to be solid color. He doesn't like the varigated ones and of course that is my favorite yarn to work with. Oh well, some people have no taste. LOL

Fall in Colorado

My how time flies these days. I don't spend as much time on the computer as I used to so forget to post to the blog world.

We went October 11th to Nebraska for my niece's wedding. Thought everyone would get a kick out of seeing her wedding shoes (boots). Nice and simple wedding. Lovely little church that was built in the early 1900's. Only has 16 pews so is small by today's standards. It was nice to see everyone, even though it was a short visit. Also a rare family portrait of my parents, brother, and I.

I've been busy making sweaters for the grandkids for Christmas. Only have 1 1/2 left to go and then I'll get some pictures of those.

We had some bad news this week. Friends of BJ's family had a tradegy in Hawaii while on a family vacation. Their daughter and daughter-in-law were swept away by a wave and drown. It's bad enough losing one, but two at once is something I can't comprehend. They were both in their 30's. The one left two children. What a helpless feeling seeing your loved one taken from you that way. The funeral will probably be this week, we are waiting to hear.

It is end of fiscal year at work so it's been a little crazy and will continue to be till October is over. They did announce that there would be no raises in 2009, minimal spending, etc. Due to the economic condition of the country they have put measures in place to keep the company healthy. We learned our lesson the hard way in 2001 after 9/11. At least this way people won't get laid off.

All of the leaves have changed and falling. Waiting for the first snow to arrive. It did freeze so the allergies are taking a break.

We are off for an overnight to the mountains to a hot springs resort. We've never been there so it'll be an adventure.

Home for the Weekend

Well the summer is almost over and so are the trips every weekend to the lake. Fishing wasn't much good this year and we didn't take the boat out very often. The weather this year has been very odd. Late spring and then hot with lots of thunder storms. I'm thinking fall and winter will come early this year. They had snow in the mountains yesterday and had to have chain restrictions. Today it's supposed to be back up in the 70's.

I went to visit Laura in North Carolina the end of August for a weekend. She has a wonderful house that is at the end of a cul-de-sac and backs to the woods. It is so quiet, she doesn't get any of the street noise we do. Sitting on the back deck it's like you are in a paradise away from everything. She's taking her time organizing and decorating each room. It was a great visit, but way too short.

I got a new laptop and it doesn't have a port for my camera chip so haven't figured out how to get pictures loaded. Supposedly, I can put the chip in the printer and then pull over to the computer, but haven't taken the time to figure it out.

Work has been crazy, learning new lines of business and how to use more programs. October is our fiscal year end so it's historically a busy month. So much so, that people are told to not take vacation then. I interviewed for our team lead, but I'm not holding my breath that I'll get it. I don't interview well and there were several people that applied. I figure that if I'm not willing to apply for it, then I can't complain about who they hire. :)

Been working on baby sweater sets, dishcloths, and socks. Just mindless knitting and working to use up some of the massive stash I have. Last week I got out the winter clothes and organized my closet so that chore is done. It may get warm outside, but not inside the office. Add to that the fact that I apparently have started menopause so my body temp fluctuates quite often. Hot, cold, hot, cold. I dress in layers to accommodate it.

Off to get ready for the day. Hubby wants to go look at a different topper for the pickup.

Remodeling and Hot Here

We spent every evening last week finishing the family room. Took out cabinets, workstation components and old carpet. Got the wood flooring down, new cabinets in, and made a desk out of the leftover parts. Good thing we have central air since it has been in the 90's for over 15 days in a row with no relief in site.

Managed to get two boxes sent off to Socks for Soldiers, a box off to Navy Marine Relief Society, and took a bag of baby items by the hospital. We've been working diligently to downsize and minimize some of the clutter.

We've had some changes at work and so I've been learning a more complex job that has me working on multi-million dollar agreements. Little more stressful since everyone is high profile and gets audited. If you screw one up, it gets lots of attention!! I'm also having to learn Oracle more and how to do the credit and rebills for corrections for our team. Once the other gal gets cross-trained on her new job and knows it, I'll need to lean it so I can be her back up. Lots of people have either left for other jobs or have been let go. With the economy the way it is, we are not hiring externally and in most cases just assuming more work without replacing people.

BJ's company sold and is now owned by Black Hills Energy so we are waiting to see what changes they are going to make. So far they are locked in to the current benefits for at least a year. Too bad health insurance is such an important item in our lives. Otherwise, we could probably do something else, but we have to rely on the larger companies in order to get benefits. The smaller companies just can't provide healthcare since it's so expensive.

We have only been going to the lake every other weekend or so. The fish haven't been biting this year and it's been WAY too hot. With the price of fuel, we have reduced the visits to the lake.

Better get to work! Stay cool!

Checking in with lots of Pictures

As you can see, I've been on a baby sweater, bootie, and hat kick. Here are pictures of some of the latest batch. I still have others awaiting buttons.

Also, pictures of the tomato plants BJ is raising. He already has little tomatoes set on, a zucchini has been harvested, and there is a cucumber that will be ready for the weekend.

The flower bed is also going nuts this year. Must be all of that Miracle Gro he's been using back there. He diligently waters his plants morning and night.

We went to the lake last weekend and it was too windy to fish on Saturday so went to North Platte to see the grandkids. Ashley knows all of her ABC's and can write them pretty well for 4 1/2. She can count to 20 and knows her primary colors. Her usual form of attire is either a swimsuit or a pair of panties. She doesn't care too much for clothes when it's hot. Billy is talking very well for 2 1/2. He knew all the books I attempted to read to him. He was telling me the story before I could read the words. Both of them apparently have tougher feet than I do since they are barefoot all the time. Not me, I sure wouldn't be running around without watching to see what I was stepping on. Ashley also learned how to pump her legs so she is no longer dependent on someone to push her in her swing.

BJ put down more wood flooring and only has to do the other half of the livingroom. He's going to take out all of the cabinets and re-do them. Oh boy, that means I have to move lots of yarn and stuff associated with.

The fish still aren't biting at the lake and the water is slow to warm up this year. Hard to believe we wait and wait for Summer to get here and now it's going by way to fast. Off to the lake again for 4 days this weekend provided we survive a 3 day workweek.