Knitting Ladybug

New Family Addition

2012-01-05T08:57:00.003-07:00

Our newest family member is Jenna. She is a 12-week old Boxer. We are still adjusting, learning to get along with Lilo and Stitch, learning how to use the dog door, and being potty trained. Also, we are learning NOT to bark! She is adorable and so much fun.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T08:53:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

We spent several days at the lake this year. BJ caught a couple of walleye early in the
season and then nothing unless you wanted catfish. We relaxed at the camper or took the boat out to a beach along the lake most days. The water is up and with the fish hiding in the trees, fishing wasn’t very much fun. Beautiful weather most of the time.

I am still cleaning/babysitting/organizing for between 5 to 7 families a week. I have some awesome families thatI have been blessed with helping. All except one of the houses has children and most of them are under the age of 6. This gives me my child fix almost daily without having them 24/7.

BJ has been with Black Hills Energy for 11 years and still loves what he does. When he isn’t
working, he’s adding a covered patio on the back of the house, painting rooms,
re-doing things around the house, etc.

If you are looking for a worthwhile project to get
involved with, please consider www.homesforourtroops.com I have the honor of assisting Matt and Tracy Keil that live east of Parker, CO every Thursday. They have the cutest 1 year old twins. It really helps to keep you humble and thankful when you see Matt in his chair.
He has such an awesome attitude and does as much as he can with one arm’s use.

Jewel crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Dec. 3rd. She was almost 12 years old and was very sick. We miss her, but still Lilo and Stitch to entertain us.

As we celebrate Jesus’ birthday this year, may we be reminded that it isn’t what you receive, but what you give. May we remember the significance of the holiday without getting sucked into the commercial aspect of overspending. Relax and enjoy the season. Remember that “Less is More.“
You can't rent a U-Haul to Heaven.

Dishcloth Square Blanket Finished

2011-06-15T15:38:00.004-07:00

Here are pictures of the dishcloth afghan that I have been working on for the past month. I'm considering it done for now. I may go around it a few more times in the fall, but not now since it's too hot to work on any more. 100% cotton yarn. It took 56 - 10x9 inch squares. I made all but two of the squares that I received from my dear friend Patty.

Now to decide what to work on next. I had a charity friend give me 4 trash bags of yarn so I'm full up with yarn again. Just when I was getting my stash under control, it is now out of control again. I need to sort through it and see what there is. Did see lots of scrap balls in the bags. Hmmmm! What to work on when it's 87 degrees out.

Christmas 2010 in Mazatlan Mexico

2010-12-28T07:24:00.005-07:00

We had a fantastic time in Mazatlan, Mexico for a week during Christmas. We both brought back colds, but it was a good getaway. Met several great people from Canada, Michigan, Texas, etc.

In the past year, I managed to lose 30 lbs. and B.J. lost 40 lbs. Amazing what happens when you quit eating out and cook at home.

This year for Christmas I made all of the adult kids and spouses sweaters (8) and then 10 child sweaters. Boy, was I ready to go back to knitting socks and smaller projects again.

I'm currently cleaning for two families for about 12 hours a week and then volunteering at the hospital for another 8 hours a week. Keeps me busy. B.J. got me a Nook (from Barnes and Noble) for Christmas. After researching the Kindle, Nook, and Ipad, the Nook is the only one of the three that you can download books from the library to. I am able to read so much more now and sold the books I had sitting around the house on ebay. Still trying to minimize and declutter.

Wishing everyone Happy Holidays and may the new year be a great one!

What happens when you come home from vacation early.

2010-09-13T08:29:00.005-07:00

So what do you do when you come home from vacation early? We worked our hineys off. Built a new covered patio on Thursday. Got a used 5-man hot tub from a neighbor for $175 and moved it to the backyard on Friday. BJ then fixed it and got it up and running. Saturday I had found bricks for 5 cents each so we went an...d loaded 1350 of them and brought them home. I moved bricks from the pickup to the backyard while BJ was digging the dirt and leveling. Patio was done by around 2 p.m. on Sunday. Boy that hot tub felt great on the sore muscles.

I should not need to buy yarn ever again!

2010-08-27T14:58:00.005-07:00

After the sorting.

Before the sorting.

Be very careful what you wish or ask for. Our friends are cleaning out there big house in preparation to one day sell it. First, Wednesday night we went over to pick up a Passap electronic knitting machine and she then gives me 3 bags of yarn. Second, Thursday morning they called to say that they found another box of parts for the knitting machine and to come over. Well.....that was only the beginning. Three trips to my house later, I had brought home 45 trash bags (mostly the big black ones), only 3 of these bags were filled with craft kits and the rest was all yarn. This is all acrylic yarn and some of it is definitely Vintage since I've not seen these colors before or in a very long time.

I then spent all afternoon and evening sorting the yarn into groups, baby, cotton, variegated, solids, and multiple skeins enough for a sweater. Now today, I have to figure out where to put all of this till I can get busy to knit it up. I am not allowed to buy yarn ever again!!!!! I even sorted out some specifically to make sweaters for myself.

I was thrilled to find some yarn that matched a baby blanket I had been working on and ran out of yarn on. Most of the yarn is Red Heart, but there is Caron, Lion Brand, and about every other brand you can think of. So, if you run out of yarn on your project, it's very possible I may now have it. There are several of the RH Fiesta in colors I haven't seen in ages.

I did manage to get everything sorted and put downstairs. I even segregated it to its own areas by type.

Yes, it is possible to have too much yarn! A huge thank you to Steve and Roseann.

Spring Snow Storm and Finished Sweaters

2010-03-24T10:55:00.007-07:00

My first Baby Surprise sweater from the Elizabeth Zimmerman collection. It looks like a big blob of nothing until it is folded.
This is another new pattern that I tried from the Cabin Fever neck down pattern books. Supposed to fit a one year old. Really like this pattern for baby yarn on size 6 needles.
This morning's view out the front door. We received at least a foot of snow over night. It is already above freezing now and beginning to melt.
The backyard.

Hooded sweatshirt style sweater I made for my girlfriend. Now her daughter wants one too.

I know it's been a while since I posted, but when you are not employed, there really isn't much excitement around here. Still looking for a job, would love to at least get an interview once in a while, but I know I'm not alone in this.

I'm making the most of this time to get knitting, sewing, reading, etc. done. Currently fighting a really rotten cold and staying home with my germs.

First finished item of 2010

2010-01-02T10:09:00.002-07:00

First finished item of 2010, a wallaby sweater for hubby. Two and a half pounds of yarn to make the biggest size on the pattern. Much to his dismay, it does fit.

Off to work on lots of half completed sets of socks.

Wishing everyone a wonderful, happy, and prosperous New Year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-02T10:08:00.001-07:00

Here is the Christmas letter if you missed getting one.

Dear Family and Friends,
Another full year has zoomed past. Last Christmas we went to Cabo San Lucas for a week and stayed at the Santa Fe Riu. We met several great people, ate too much, and enjoyed the nightly musicals that were put on. While there we went whale watching and Marlin fishing. We were able to see several humpback whales and caught a 140 lb. Marlin. No, we did not bring it home, but donated it to the locals.
After returning home, Laura and her family arrived to go snowboarding. This was the girl’s first trip here. They also were able to go to Nebraska and join up with the rest of the siblings.
In March we celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary with a week in Mazatlan. BJ went grouper fishing with some other men and we ended up bringing home about 20# of fish in our luggage. Good thing it is a direct flight of only 3 hours.
Deb’s work was affected by the economic down turn in the economy. The end of May, Deb was one of the 165 people to be laid off at her company. Still sending out resumes and occasionally there is an interview.
The lack of employment has given Deb the opportunity to go help my parents and grandma twice. The end of June brought a new grandson, Colter Ray Tolstedt. At 5 months he is a big boy and a very happy child. I was able to spend a few days getting to know him in July.
The last weekend at the lake, Jake and family were able to join us. The weather was perfect for fishing. Ashley caught her first fish and was so excited. She was sitting up front on one of the chairs and said, “I think I have a fish, my chair is moving.” Sure enough she had a nice catfish.
The end of October we went with friends to Mazatlan for a week. This was a delayed birthday celebration for BJ. We were fortunate to miss the blizzard that they had in Colorado while we were gone. We really enjoyed the 80-90 degree weather.
In November, I went to Emma’s for Thanksgiving. It didn’t turn out quite as we planned. Emma, the boys and I took turns getting the stomach flu.
The end of November, our good friend, Ken Moore took a turn for the worse. He had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer in August. He took his journey to be with the Lord on December 3rd. We held a memorial service on the 12th.
One thing we all wish for is more time, but it isn’t something we will be given. We need to stop wasting time and enjoy every minute we have.
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Brrr, feels like Winter already!

2009-10-11T08:46:00.010-07:00

Yesterday we had a trace of snow and it was in the 20's all day. That took care of any lingering plants and flowers.

I seem to be busier now that I'm unemployed than when I was working. Recently started/resumed quilting. So far, I have finished 3 quilts. Two are gifts and one is a panel that the guild had donated.

Did find a money saver for material. Found a clearance packet of sheets at target for $2 yesterday. Can't buy that much fabric for that amount at the fabric store. Also found a king size flat sheet in perfect condition at the thrift store. Will use that for the back on another quilt. Gives you a basis for size and you don't have to sew together pieces to come up with the right size.

Pictures of the three quilts, a sweater set for charity, the dogs trying to stay warm on the couch yesterday, and two blue sweaters for the www.warmwoolies.org Land's End feel good project. Still have two more black sweaters to do for them. These have to be done by December for donation to the reservations in South Dakota.

Looks like a knitting and football day. The extra bedroom is too cold today to sew so will wait for a warmer day. Have to keep the door shut to keep the dogs out of my stuff so it doesn't get much heat.

September and the Countdown Begins

2009-09-02T07:41:00.005-07:00

Don't you just hate it when stuff for Christmas is already in the stores and I keep seeing messages that it is only 100+ days away? Due to my employment status or lack thereof, this will need to be a homemade Christmas. In other words, if I can't make it, you won't get anything. I continue to apply for jobs, but I realize that I am one of many in the same boat.

Meantime, I finished my first Christmas present for grandson. He requested a green hooded sweater. This was my first wallaby. I have already cast on for another one for his brother. Making progress on the ladybug quilt for Ashley. Too thick to machine quilt so am doing it by hand. Since this is my first quilt, don't expect perfection. Need to find that thimble before the end of my finger is on piece of hamburger.

Yesterday, I utilized the old bananas and made a banana cake, an enchilada casserole, and a kidney bean salad. Now the cooking is done for a few days.

Hubby was complaining that we had too much crap and there wasn't anywhere to put stuff away from the store. Sure can't have the paper towels or toilet paper in the garage on "his" shelves. So, I backed the pickup up and proceeded to fill the whole backend with stuff and haul it to ARC to donate. Now, he's complaining that I should've had a garage sale and sold the stuff instead. Oh well, this way it is a tax deduction.

Had to move another shelf of knitting books to a safer place since Lilo seems to think that if I'm not home, she needs to punish me and destroy them.

I've also been making potholders, coasters and dishcloths. Some are for the Needle Arts Guild fall auction. Also, been working on baby sweater sets for the auction as well as my usual donations.

Waiting to see how soon the winter is going to start and what the snow falls this year are going to be like. Our weather has been so out of character lately.

End of August Already!

2009-08-25T15:11:00.002-07:00

Doesn't seem like we even had a summer this year. The weather has been so different, but it is actually how it used to be years ago.

Fishing has been awful this year and we haven't caught hardly anything. Only a couple more weekends left at the lake before the campground closes for the season.

Yesterday was my needle arts guild meeting at the hospital. I had 13 baby sweaters, 3 pr. booties, and 6 hats to deliver. We were able to put together 41 packets for newborns, which was a large amount for our little group. Considering the hospital averages 150 babies per month, that only covers a small portion of them.

I'm still looking for a job, but am enjoying the extra knitting time and time to do things around the house while I have the opportunity. I've started on items for Christmas. Saw somewhere that there are only a little over 100 days till Christmas. That is sad, how does it happen so quickly. Just sneaks up on you before you know it.

No new pictures, forgot my camera at the lake so didn't get pictures of my items before I donated them.

NEW GRANDSON!

2009-07-14T09:57:00.007-07:00

Born to Calvin and Rayann Tolstedt on June 27th at 7:31 p.m., Colter Ray Tolstedt, 8 lbs. 3 oz. and 21 inches long. I was able to go visit him for a few days the week after the holiday. As an added bonus, Emma and her two boys were still in town from Omaha. P.W. and Keith have grown so much. It was good to see them.

Colter is the best baby and growing like a weed. He loves to eat!

Vacation at the Lake June 26th to July 5th

2009-07-14T09:37:00.006-07:00

Here are some pictures from vacation at the lake. BJ finally caught a "keeper" Walleye weighing in at 7 lbs. The water is up higher than it has been in years so the fish are hiding in the trees and harder to catch.

We went to North Platte and met up with son, Jake's family at Lake Maloney. They took the boat out for a spin and the kids played in the lake. Picnic supper of brats and hot dogs. I got to hold their friend's baby boy, Blake, that was one month old.

Lilo riding on the riding lawn mower with BJ doing the yard. I guess that is one advantage of being deaf, she doesn't hear the noisy mower.

Picture of part of the gathering for the 4th of July potluck at our place to eat the ribs BJ smoked. They were awesome. Perfect day for it.

Lilo laying on the dash of the pickup on the way home.

More finished Items!

2009-07-14T09:18:00.010-07:00

Here are pictures of some more finished objects. The pale green knitted blanket was a new pattern that I tried and really liked. Works perfect with the one pound skeins of yarn and there was even enough for a baby sweater left over. This is a commission piece and I need to contact the purchaser to let them know it is ready.

Some of the other items are gifts and the rest are for charity. Next NAG (needle arts guild) meeting is the 27th so I need to work on getting some more items finished.

Pictures from the last three weeks knitting.

2009-06-15T15:40:00.013-07:00

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

2009-06-10T14:04:00.008-07:00

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!

2009-05-26T12:53:00.007-07:00

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!

2009-05-18T13:32:00.002-07:00

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!

2009-05-11T15:16:00.004-07:00

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!

2009-05-03T06:31:00.004-07:00

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!

2009-04-29T16:24:00.004-07:00

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!

2009-04-22T04:18:00.002-07:00

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

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T08:13:00.007-07:00

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!

2009-04-06T15:57:00.009-07:00

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!

2009-03-23T16:46:00.003-07:00

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!

2009-03-14T06:52:00.002-07:00

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

2009-02-16T07:38:00.005-07:00

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

2009-02-10T17:10:00.003-07:00

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

2009-02-10T16:55:00.003-07:00

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!

2009-02-08T07:04:00.003-07:00

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!!!

2009-02-02T16:29:00.007-07:00

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.

2009-01-29T16:56:00.007-07:00

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!

2009-01-20T16:31:00.004-07:00

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.

2009-01-06T16:47:00.003-07:00

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!!!

2009-01-05T16:35:00.002-07:00

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

2008-12-29T11:42:00.003-07:00

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!!!!

2008-12-16T17:06:00.002-07:00

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!

2008-12-10T16:28:00.012-07:00

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

2008-11-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

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

2008-11-13T05:40:00.001-07:00

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

2008-10-26T08:46:00.008-07:00

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

2008-10-18T06:16:00.004-07:00

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

2008-09-13T07:11:00.003-07:00

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

2008-07-29T05:49:00.004-07:00

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

2008-06-30T17:11:00.012-07:00

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.

Pictures and More Pictures

2008-06-04T15:29:00.008-07:00

Here are a few pictures from Cancun. The others are pictures of projects finished in the past month. I've actually read a few books too. The socks are for Sock Wars and I've made my first kill. Now I'm waiting for the packet from my victim so I can carry on in the battle. Not crazy about the pattern this time, but I think it is a lot better organized.

Off to the lake this weekend for 5 days. Our camping group will be there for part of it. The walleye haven't started biting yet since it's been too cold. We are hopeful that they'll be biting this weekend.

I got a perm Monday night and now look like a poodle or sheep that needs to be sheared. Oh well, it'll loosen up. Low maintenance.

Off to get ready for the new mattress set BJ is picking up. The temper pedic one we have isn't working for us since it makes us too hot to rest well. Going back to a "normal" mattress. With hot flashes now, the last thing I need is a bed that absorbs heat and makes you sweat.

Home from Cancun!

2008-05-11T13:44:00.002-07:00

We returned home late last night. We left on Saturday, May 3rd at 7 a.m., which meant that we had to get up at 3:30 a.m. to get there in time. It was 29 degrees so we opted for long pants and a sweatshirt. We loved Cancun and had a great time. Getting there and back is the biggest hassle though.

We had connections in Dallas, arrived early and all seemed ahead of schedule. Boarded the second flight and sat on the tarmack for 2 1/2 hours while they fixed one of the toilets. The plane has 3 and 2 were broken. Finally, we got off. Arrived late into Cancun and since 4 other planes landed at the same time, it took 2 1/2 hours to get through immigration/customs. Meantime, we hadn't really eaten all day and it was hotter than heck in the terminal.

Arrived at the resort to find the room wasn't what we expected, but we made the best of it once they brought us a coffee maker. After getting stuff to the room, we quickly went to find something to eat.

We rode the city bus downtown to Walmart (no yarn) and Sam's Club. Takes a little practice to decipher the pesos vs. dollar. It's roughly 10 to 1 currently. So if it said it was 505 pesos, it was actually $5.05. We ate some interesting food while there and managed to put on an additional 5 lbs. We each have a few spots where we will definitely peel from sunburn.

One day we took a catamaran out to the island and went snorkeling. The under tow was pretty strong and we were contained in small groups. Jamaica was a LOT better for snorkeling.

We relaxed by the pool or slept a lot. This trip was relaxing and not our usual of trying to cram as much as possible into the time there. Met some interesting people from all over the world. Great people-watching experience! I actually read two books and finished one pair of socks.

The trip back was almost as much of an adventure and the trip down. They wouldn't let me take my knitting needles in my carry on, but had on the way down. BJ being the loving spouse went back down and got it checked so we could proceed. Had to read a book instead. Bumpy flight into Dallas, off to immigration and customs (another hour in line) and then collect our luggage and go to security again. No mishaps this time. Ate a quick sandwich when we saw our flight was delayed an hour. We were over an hour late getting back into Denver and the temperature was 50 degrees and it'd snowed that morning. Quite a shock from high humidity and 90's.

The dogs were so happy to see us that I didn't think they'd ever settle down to go to bed. It was really nice to sleep in our own bed again!

It was Lisa's Birthday this week.

2008-04-24T17:08:00.015-07:00

Tuesday was Lisa's birthday. She would've been 24. We took flowers to Ft. Logan and decorated her road sign. I went to work on Tuesday, but couldn't do it and came home after 3 hours. BJ came home to be with me and we spent the day together. It ended up being a quiet day remembering Lisa and all of the joy she brought to our lives.

April in the Rockies

2008-04-09T16:41:00.003-07:00

One day it's in the 70's and the next we are getting snow. Supposed to get rain turning to snow overnight with accumulations of 3-6 inches where I live. Pouring rain and had to change clothes when I got home after just walking across the steet to get the mail. Forecast says it'll be in the 60-70's by the weekend. No wonder there is so much hacking and coughing everywhere you go. Add to that the tree pollen is really high.

Here's a few pictures of the latest finished projects. Finally a pair of socks for BJ and they FIT!!! Made another hat with fairisle knitting. 2 pair of socks finished and mailed out today to Socks for Soldiers as well as 6 beanies.

Been making my lists for the trip to Cancun May 3rd so I don't forget anything. Sure hope American Airlines gets their planes all fixed by then. I feel sorry for all of the people trying to go on vacation and the airlines decide to "fix" a bunch of planes. Don't they do maintenance and keep up on FAA requirments on a regular basis? That's like not changing your oil and acting surprised when you blow an engine.

We took the motorhome up to the lake last weekend. Beautiful day and no wind, really helped with the fuel consumption. Got it all set up and it's ready to go. The dogs ran themselves silly and have spent several days recovering. Not too difficult when it's raining, they stay cuddled up to keep warm.

Nothing too exciting going on around here. Planning for vacation and trudging to work everyday. LOL

Good 50th Birthday!

2008-03-18T04:37:00.001-07:00

Survived my 50th birthday. Here is how the day played out.

Went to work and found out that the receptionist had flowers from oldest daughter, picked those up. Found a couple cards on my desk and gift from a co-worker. Rest of the day was pretty anti-climatic.

Left work in anticipation of going out to dinner for the evening. Got to the car, and found it full of black and over the hill balloons, confetti, a (I've fallen and can't get up) bra, and an old fart pen. I'm wondering when BJ had time to come by my office. Gave him a call and low and behold, he'd been off work all afternoon. Got me 2 dozen red roses, a pearl necklace and bracelet set, disco balls that float in the hot tub, and a card.

He'd also gotten his hair cut, he's found a real barber that does a wonderful job and keeps his ears hair free. LOL

Off to dinner at the fondue restaurant. We'd never been here, but everyone said it was wonderful. Well, that isn't how we'd describe it. They put us in a cold corner (had to wear our coats half the time); two families with little kids near us; etc. Supposed to be a romantic place, but it sure didn't seem like it to us. The food was too rich for us and not what we are used to so both of us slept awful last night. One good thing is though, it was memorable and we'll always remember my 50th birthday dinner.

Amazing, I don't feel any different. LOL

Sunday, I took a fairisle knitting class and here is a picture of the hat I made. Not near as difficult as I thought it would be.

Beautiful Sunday!

2008-03-09T13:04:00.010-07:00

Here is the baby set that I finished for another order. Now I'm working on big black socks for Socks for Soldiers. Probably the last black ones I'll make since all of the branches of the military are changing the colors of their regulation socks. I have some of the new olive drab and desert tan for the next ones I make.

Re-read a book for work. The Power of Personal Accountability - Achieve What Matters to You by Mark Samuel & Sophie Chiche.
Chapter 1: The Victim Loop
Chapter 2: Take Charge of Your Life
Chapter 3: Recognize Your Current Reality
Chapter 4: The Power of Owning Your Part
Chapter 5: The Gift of Forgiveness
Chapter 6: The Art of Self-Examination
Chapter 7: Be a Master Learner
Chapter 8: Take Action
Conclusion: The Gift of Accountability

This is an excellent book and one I'd recommend everyone read. It talks
about if you were sitting on a bench at the end of your life, looking back, will
you have accomplished the things you wanted. Setting goals, achieving them,
moving forward and being able to achieve what matters to you.

After reading this book again, I sat down and re-evaluated some items, made
new goals, created a what I want to achieve 1 yr., 2 yrs., etc. I realigned
my charity giving to mostly local.

Finished my shrug for vacation and am now working on a sweater kit I started
several years ago. Bound and determined to finish up some of these hangers
on. Also, I've fallen in a rut of ALWAYS making the same baby sweater since
I have it memorized and I'm challenging myself to actually try some of the
zillions of patterns I've printed off or have in books. Why have them if I'm
going to make the same pattern every time?

While out today, picked up seeds to start a few things for our mini garden. Don't think BJ noticed that I got some seed potatoes. They are for purple potatoes. He saw them on "Dirty Jobs" and thought they were gross so when I saw them today at the store, had to get some. (Insert evil laughter)

Got my eyes checked and there wasn't enough of a change to warrant getting new lenses or glasses. Yahoo! That saved us a lot of money!

Went to the RV show yesterday, but it wasn't as big as usual. You can tell the economy is hurting. Prices were slashed and there wasn't near as much. Houses being foreclosed against are popping up all over the neighborhood and we don't even live in a higher end neighborhood. Makes us really glad we never moved UP in house when we could've. The prices of gas and the slowing economy are reasons to really watch your pennies right now. Hard to say where it's heading.

Nice today and in the 40's, probably take me a week to adjust to the time change. Can't believe they did that right before my birthday!

Has it really been a month?!!!

2008-02-23T08:51:00.010-07:00

I can't believe it's almost been a month since I last posted. My body has adapted to the medicine changes and I'm feeling so much better.

The co-worker that we had befriended decided to pull a Jekyl and Hyde on us. Now she won't even talk to me and is just being difficult to even work with. Even tried to sabotage some of my work to get me in trouble. Oh well, we learned a hard lesson on this one. Guess that's what we get for being too trusting. Now the rest of my co-workers are apologetic for now warning us about her and how she uses people.

Weather here has been up and down. Hot, cold, snow, etc. At the moment it's cloudy and kind of dreary looking. Tomorrow it's supposed to be in the upper 60's.

Last Saturday, son Calvin and wife Rayann came and spent the night. We took them to the airport on Sunday morning so they could go to Las Vegas to a vet convention. I picked them up Thursday evening and they had to hurry home since he had to work on Friday. It was great seeing them for the short time we did have.

Our new Saturday adventure is going to the ARC thrift store. Saturdays are when almost everything is half price. BJ has decided there really is no reason to shop for clothes anywhere else. We are already picking up summer clothing for our trip to Cancun in May. Name brands for a couple of dollars.

Received my AARP card so I'm officially an older person. LOL

Been busy knitting baby stuff and stuff for orders. I've had several new babies to knit for and went to a baby shower last Sunday for one of Lisa's best friends. I was a prize hog and won 3 of the games. It was fun to see a lot of Lisa's friends.

After uploading the pictures, it appears that I forgot to take pictures of some items. The pink/pink camo sweater also had a hat, booties and blanket, which have already been delivered to a co-worker of BJ's. The shrug I gave to a co-worker for her birthday since it's cold where she sits. The shawl was to another co-worker for her birthday and she's also cold. These were both unfinished items that were hanging around for a couple of years and now finished. I've started me a shrug out of the same pattern in the pink camo since it'll go with most everything I wear. Pink/brown/green and white.

Finishing up a blue set for an order and hope to have it done this weekend so I can work on something else. VERY behind on socks for soldiers and need to get back to them.

Off to get ready for our Saturday jaunt to ARC to see what treasures we can find.

Busy January So Far

2008-01-26T09:36:00.001-07:00

It's already been a busy month with multiple doctor visits. Good though. I've gone to the Ear, Nose, & Throat doctor to see what is causing all of the sinus infections. I have to irrigate and use Nasacort, they gave me some other stuff to try, but it gave me hallucinations. I had a CT scan and will take those xrays with me on the 31st when I go back. They also took blood to do allergy tests.

Went to the OB/GYN and he took me off my birth control pills (only used for flow containment and regularity) and we'll see what happens. He also reduced my Prozac by half.

Then off to the regular doctor to check my cholesterol and thyroid. The Lipitor seems to be working and he's given me a one year script for that. My thyroid meds needed reduced from .125 mg to .88 mg. That is the lowest dosage I've had in 25 years.

Needless to say, my body is going through transition adjusting to all these changes at once. BJ is watching me like a hawk to make sure there are no adverse reactions. He knows my body better than I do and notices any changes. I can start or stop taking something and he'll notice immediately. Comes in handy since he pays closer attention than I do.

Had an order for 5 felted purses and have those done. I just need to meet up with the gal to get paid and deliver them.

We survived the one year anniversary of Lisa's death and it wasn't near as difficult as Christmas was. Now we are looking forward to 2008 being a better year.

Off to knit on some UFO's. Determined to get some of these finished. Had to frog several rows of a prayer shawl in a simple lace pattern this morning. I apparently was watching the movie last night much closer than my knitting. We watched to Hire a Husband on the Oxygen network. Cute and no violence and blood.

Happy New Year - Off to a Good Start

2008-01-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Survived the holidays and that is how I look at them. They were more than difficult this year and I'm glad they are over with. Looking forward optimistically that 2008 will be a LOT better year. Even with the events of 2007, I still managed to be quite productive.

Items Made in 2007
Baby Sweaters 38
Baby Hats 19
Booties 8
Child Socks Pair 1
Adult Socks Pair 25
Crochet Baby Blanket 13
Felted Purse 16
Adult Hat 18
Knit Dishcloth 2
Knit Scarf 19
Crochet Scarf 1
Scrubbies 2
5 1/2" Squares 50
6 1/2" Squares 25
7" Squares 13
Crochet Doilies 5
Pillow 1
Butterflies 15
knit soap sack 2
Shawlette 1

Total 274

The pictures are the items that I've already finished for 2008. I've made a list of the charities I plan on making items for and goals for each.

We've decided to go on a spending diet for a while and focus more on using what we have and paying off debt. So far we are doing well, but time will tell.

We have a couple of events we are planning for. One is my 50th birthday in March and the other is a week in Cancun in May. Hence the spending diet. Long overdue and if you saw my yarn stash, you'd agree with hubby that I can do with a yarn diet for a while.

Yesterday we drove to North Platte and back to see Jake and Amanda's new home. They are still doing some finishing touches, unpacking, but are enjoying having so much more room!

For Christmas, BJ got me an Ipod so I take it to work. We are allowed to use them to drown out noise so we can focus. In a call center, the place can be a little noisy. The one he got me holds 1000 songs and I have 531 loaded so far. The battery will last for 3 full days of work.

Here's to a happy and productive 2008.

A Little Behind in Posting

2007-12-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize that it'd been so long since I posted. Needless to say, I'm having a hard time this time of year missing Lisa. She did all of my present wrapping since she was lots better at it than me.

We thought Jewel may be pregnant and took her to the vet yesterday. After multiple tests, ultrasounds, and x-rays, it was decided that she is having a false pregnancy. Her uterus is swollen and we are watching to make sure she doesn't get an infection. In January, we plan on taking both of them to be fixed. We just can't go through this again. We don't need either one of them getting sick and losing another one.

The temp this morning was 6 degrees. We have about 6 inches of snow and last night the roads were a slippery mess. Not sure if I'll go out today or just watch my Knitty Gritty tapings and knit.

We put a bird feed in the back yard and it's been very busy with the little birds. Stitch loves to watch them.

As you can see, I've been busy knitting since last post. Three pair of socks for soldiers; baby sweaters and baby hats for charity.

Hope everyone is staying warm.

Busy and Productive.

2007-11-27T17:47:00.001-07:00

The 4 day long holiday weekend was productive. I was able to finish 2 pair of socks, a baby sweater, baby hat, shawlette, and hat/scarf set.

Last week was interesting to say the least. Monday it was in the 70's in Colorado and the A/C didn't work in our wing of the building so by the time we escaped the temperature was 88. I think all of us went home with a migraine. Tuesday the construction crew across the street hit a power line, which caused our power to go out as well as the power to generate water to our building. This was for a good 3 hours. We did have backup generators for the computers, but there was no water and no one could flush in the bathrooms. Made for another miserable day. Wouldn't you know it, weather cold in the 30's on Wednesday and yes, you got it - the heat didn't work. It was 60 degrees in our area till almost noon. I'm surprised everyone isn't sick. We were all glad to be off for 4 days.

BJ ended up deep frying 4 turkeys on Thanksgiving. The neighbor works for a grocery store and brought 3 home ready to cook. One for them, one for us, and one for our friends. We fixed the planned one first and sent all of the leftovers home with BJ's folks. We ate a little of the one we kept, but have since frozen it. Didn't take long to be tired of leftover turkey.

Friday we got up and drove to Nebraska to see some of my family. Nice visit. Came home on Saturday. Sunday was spent doing errands and getting ready for another week.

Secret Pal 11 - Reveal Package Received

2007-11-27T17:41:00.000-07:00

Look at the wonderful Ladybug items that Jenni sent me from Finland. Ladybug fabric, buttons, ribbon, zipper pull, etc. I'll have to think of something special to sew out of the fabric. A lovely pair of red felted slippers that are a perfect fit.

Thank you so much Jenni for taking the time to spoil me.

Finished socks today!

2007-11-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

Finished this pair of socks today for Socks for Soldiers. I found that I can knit them on 2 circulars if I cast them on on the dpn's and do a few rows. Then I just transfer them over and don't have to worry about dropping a stich from a needle falling out.

Working on several items to keep me from being bored. I can't believe that Thanksgiving is this week already. I mailed out all of the Christmas presents already. Don't like to mess with the shopping malls or Post Office after Thanksgiving. Most everyone wanted gift cards so that made it easier. Still have Christmas cards to do, but doubt I'll do a Christmas letter this year.

Rude awakening last weekend. My left arm went numb and I had some twinges in my chest. Since my Mom has an enlarged heart and my Dad has had two heart attacks, I took it seriously. Doctor did an EKG, which was normal. My cholesterol was high so they have put me on lipitor and will recheck in 90 days. I guess I'm not as young as I think I am. Need to slow down and reduce my stress level. Trying to make healthier food choices, too.

Thank goodness I knit, can you imagine how stressed I'd be if I didn't!

Goodies from Secret Pal 11 Swap

2007-11-18T16:37:00.001-07:00

Look at the wonderful goodies that came from my Secret Pal. She knitted me the most gorgeous blue/purple varigated lace scarf. Beautiful workmanship! Someday, I'll learn how to knit lace. I can crochet it, but not knit yet. She also sent some yummy pink/purple varigated sock yarn (perfect match to my wardrobe) and some chocolate brown sock yarn. Loved my package, thank you so much!

Sunday - Beautiful day today!

2007-11-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

This is a pair of socks I made for a swap.

On Saturday, we went to North Platte for Billy's 2nd birthday party. It was a really nice day for having the party in the shop since they are in the middle of getting a new house and are living in their fifth wheel trailer right now. They are hoping to get the basement poured on Monday. Then once that is set, they'll be able to bring their pre-fab home in and set it on top. It's so exciting that they will finally have a real home to call their own.

It was a nice day and there were lots of kids running around. They were in heaven with all of the dirt to play in. Pictures of the John Deere cake; Billy opening presents; some of the kids eating at the little table; the playhouse that son, Jake, built for them; and Jake helping Billy open his presents. The dirt moving Tonka toys I got him were a hit!

Tomorrow a front is supposed to come in and it is to only be in the 40's. Brrr! Today it's mid 60's. Oh well, I'll be at work and it is the same most of the time there. Just have to dress in layers since you never know if it'll be the heat or the a/c that will be on. All of management will be offsite all week for yearly planning meetings.

Quiet Sunday!

2007-10-28T11:07:00.001-07:00

Here are pictures of the baby sweaters I made this past week. Need to get more done for the hospital since it's turned cooler here. Taking a break from socks for a bit.

Forgot to mention that I went to get my flu shot this week, but they wouldn't give me one. I have another sinus infection (number 6 for the year) so am on meds again. I should be able to get my flu shot this coming week. Since I've been on antibiotics so much this year, I'm a little concerned about that new super bug. If the stronger antibiotics don't prevail this time, the doctor is saying I need a CT scan of my sinuses. I don't think so, don't want surgery! I am not a mouth breather so it'd be a royal pain having packing in my nose.

Since it's cooler weather here, I felt like turning on the oven. Made choc. chip cookies. One batch with milk choc. chips and no nuts for hubby. Another batch of dark choc. chips and nuts for me. LOL

Off to watch football and knit. Have a wonderful day!

What we did on Saturday.

2007-10-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

First I had an 8 a.m. dentist appointment that took 1 1/2 hrs. This is the last one before the new year. I've maxed out my benefits. Lesson learned - don't neglect your teeth! Reconstruction and repair can be expensive.

While I was at the dentist, hubby put up new security lights on the front of the house. Energy efficient and they come on when it gets dark. Quite bright, but should keep all pests away. He also put a lighted, magnifying mirror in the bathroom for me. Let's face it, I don't see as well as I used to. Now I can see too good all of those little hairs and such that I couldn't before. LOL Maybe I'll be able to put my eye makeup on now without poking myself in the eye.

Then we went to the Butterfly Pavillion. We'd never been there and they were doing a special event for Halloween. The pictures are from the butterfly area. Tried to get pictures of the butterflies, but they wouldn't sit still. Loved the tropical flowers. Couldn't stay in there too long since it was 80 degrees with 70% humidity. Very interesting and hubby got to hold a trantula spider. No thank you!

From there we ran some errands and then home to watch the Rockies get beat again. Sign!

Secret Pal 11 -- Package of Goodies Today!

2007-10-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

Look what arrived from Finland today!! What a lovely surprise for a Monday! An angel calendar that will be perfect for beside my chair; some more angels to stick on cards or whatever; a guardian angel to watch over me; milk chocolate button (will need to hide from Hubby or I won't get any); 3 skeins of yummy pink merino silk; and a stunning knit hat that will go perfect with my winter coat. It is tan with pink and turquoise. I tried it on and it fits perfect. Starting to get chilly here and was only in the 40's yesterday. I'll have to plan what to make out the yarn. Wonder if it'd work for socks. Handwash, but that's okay. Merino wool, silk and bamboo. When we were in Jamaica we saw Bamboo growing. Did you know it is the world's largest grass? I had no idea till our guide told us. It's huge!

Thank you so much Secret Pal!

Pictures of the Latest Socks

2007-10-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

These are the two pair of socks I finished over the weekend. The larger ones are for Socks for Soldiers and the others I haven't decided since they fit me. LOL

Tuesday at the nut house!

2007-10-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_canine_influenza.html

After doing some own research we found what the dogs have. Nasty, nasty, nasty! This is a news canine disease that was discovered in 2005. There isn't a vacine and since it's new, dogs haven't built up an immunity to it.

Incubation period of 2-5 days and it is a rapid illness. Bottom line is, if your dog starts coughing or wheezing, is listless, not acting themself, get them to the vet as soon as possible.

The antibiotics seem to be working. I monitored Jewel all night and she passed the critical period. We are still working on getting liquids and food into her. Stitch started acting funny last night, wouldn't play, didn't eat, etc. So he was put on antibiotics today. It's so contagious that we weren't waiting to see if he had it. Not willing at this point to take a chance.

I have managed to get a couple pair of socks done and will post pictures separately.

Thank you for praying for our babies.

Not a Good Monday!

2007-10-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

We went camping over the weekend. Last night Shadow (the black one) started coughing, choking, and wheezing. BJ was up all night with and took today off. He took her to the vet first thing this morning. After x-rays they determined she had bacterial pneumonia and her lungs were full. Come to find out she had a bad heart so she wasn't strong enough to fight off the infection. We had to put her down.

BJ came home and Jewel was showing the same symptoms so took her to the vet this afternoon. She also has the bacterial pneumonia, but we caught it (hopefully) early. She's on antibiotics and we should see an improvement in the next 48 hours. Can you please say a prayer that we are able to save her? Jewel and Shadow are half sisters.

So far Stitch is doing okay, but we will keep an eye on him also.

This is a fast moving bacterial infection and comes on VERY quickly. We can only pinpoint it to the doggy park at the campground we were at over the weekend. They haven't been anywhere else.

Socks and Sick Again!

2007-10-02T17:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I did finish a pair of mother/daughter socks for Christmas. I've solicited lists and have started my Christmas shopping/making/etc. It's to the point where most people want gift cards so that makes it really easy.

Tomorrow is the day that SIL, Jeremy, is due back from Iraq. I'll be happy to hear he's back in the states.

I have sinus infection number 5 for the year and am on anti-biotics AGAIN! Sure wish it'd freeze so maybe this doesn't come back again.

We have our last campout with our camping group this weekend. The annual chili feast! Sounds like it'll be mighty chilly and could snow. We'll see when it gets closer to the weekend, but it won't matter, we'll still go.

This is quarter and fiscal year end at work so it's been nuts and will continue till the end of the month.

We went last Saturday to North Platte to DGD's 4th birthday party. Ashley had a nice warm day and lots of fun. Long day for us. 4 hours up; 4 hours at the party; and 4 hours to get back home.

Fall is on it's way!

2007-09-19T17:56:00.001-07:00

We went to the lake last weekend and brought the motorhome home for the winter. We couldn't believe how many leaves had already fallen. It was so cold Friday night that we actually turned on the heat and I wore socks to bed.

Pictures of the multi-directional scarf that I made over the weekend. Also, recently finished two pair of socks for me. Have to get ready for winter!

Talked to daughter, Laura, yesterday and she's been really sick. Sinustitis; bronchitis; upper resparatory infection; and severe pneumonia. She should've been in the hospital, but as usual she was too busy. She's starting to feel better after a week of enforced meds and rest. She's working 13 hour days at work, building a website for a customer, getting everything ready for her hubby to come home from Iraq, housebreaking a new puppy (UgBert) who is an English bulldog, and getting ready to teach Microsoft classes in the evenings at the community college. No wonder she is sick!!!!! I'll be glad when her hubby, Jeremy, gets home from Iraq so he can get her to slow down.

Off to eat dinner, have a great week!

Home!!!

2007-09-09T13:46:00.001-07:00

We got home late last night. Here are a few of the many pictures we took. The first two days weren't too great since we didn't care for where we were staying. We transferred to another Sandals Resort and it was SO much nicer! More what we thought a resort would be like.

While in Jamaica we went to Dunn's River Falls; Rafting on the Martha Brae; snorkeling 3 times; ATV excursion; Canopy Tour (making like a monkey); swimming; and lots of eating. We had a wonderful time, but were ready to come home and were glad to get out of the heat & humidity. It's actually only in the 60's here and it feels wonderful!

Been busy doing laundry and unpacking. The dogs were so happy to see us! BJ did let me knit once or twice and it created a spectacle on the beach. Guess they don't see many people knitting. LOL!

Wicked but Wonderful Wednesday! -- Secret Pal Goodies!

2007-08-29T18:06:00.000-07:00

This was waiting for me when I finally got home today! My Secret Pal, who apparently lives in Finland, sent me two yummy balls of Regia Stretch sock yarn in my favorite colors. There was also a cute postcard with a lovely note. This yarn will need to find a spot in my bag for vacation. Socks for me!!!!

Why was today Wicked you ask, well since the tooth extraction last Friday, I've been experiencing excruciating pain. This pain was getting worse everyday. Called the oral surgeon and they got me in today. Left work 15 minutes early only to discover they were behind by an hour. Have almost finished a sock in that time so will do the toe tonight. Turns out I have a dry socket and it would've just gotten worse each day. They packed it and that almost put me on the ceiling. I have a high pain threshold and this about did me in. I have to go back again on Friday for another packing since we leave EARLY Saturday morning. Flight leaves at 5:20 a.m. and since it's an international flight, we are supposed to be there 3 hrs. ahead. It looks like we'll need everything in the car the night before and have to get up at 2 a.m. Fortunately, we don't live too far from the airport and traffic shouldn't be bad except for the bar flies getting home.

Work has been trying since I've been in pain. It's end of month and it seems the salespeople finally wake up from a 3 week nap and realize they need stuff NOW! It will be good to go on vacation and take a break.

Thank you again to my wonderful Secret Pal!

Friday - At least I can Eat!

2007-08-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

So Thursday I was eating baby carrots (trying to be healthy) and one of my big back molars fell apart. It was mostly filling and two chunks fell out of it. I was planning on going to the dentist anyway and got them to move the appointment up to Friday afternoon. This was a new dentist and a lot closer to our home.

He took x-rays and gave me my options. After discussion, he decided to fill it and try to save it for a crown in the future. He started working on it and found that it was a lot worse than first thought. So, we decided it had to be extracted. He tried, but couldn't get it out. I have great roots! So here they are on a Friday afternoon calling around to find an oral surgeon. They finally found one and hoped I'd still be numb when I got there. Well I might have been if they didn't have a ream of paperwork for me to fill out. So he had to give me more shots and after quite an ordeal, he got it out. They told me to go home and eat ice cream and take some Ibuprofen.

Do you know how stupid you feel to have one of those mini m&m's from your McDonalds M&M McFlurry get in the extraction hole? There wasn't really anything I could do except wait for it to melt.

It's healing and I can eat again. My jaw is bruised and sore. Face is still a little puffy on that side.

Meantime, we had a great weekend at the lake with two of the grandchildren. Ashley is 4 and full of questions. Billy is all boy and into everything since he's 2. They were really good. Papa BJ and son, Jake, took Ashley to the beach to play while Nana and Billy took a nap. She found some other kids to play with and had fun playing in the water and sand. BJ smoked ribs all day and everyone thoroughly enjoyed them. I'm not a fan of BBQ sauce and when he smokes these, they don't need any sauce.

All packed and waiting for this coming weekend so we can go on vacation for a week.

Knitted Purse Swap II

2007-08-27T16:30:00.001-07:00

My bag came today from my wonderful Angel!!!!

This was very much worth waiting for! My original person got lost somewhere so I was given an angel to make my purse. Totally awesome and beautiful! I love the colorwork and the design! Well above my expertise!

She also included some wonderful sock yarn, dpns, my favorite dark m&m's, beads that will make great stitch markers, candles, soap, and a cute card.

Thank you so much for being my special angel. We leave on vacation for a week in Jamaica Sept. 1st and I'm taking this purse with me.

Good News - Bad News!

2007-08-22T16:50:00.000-07:00

We received good news from the travel agent saying our vacation was still on and the part of Jamaica we are going to received very little damage from the hurricane. Some landscaping damage, but that's all.

Didn't sleep well last night due to a nasty throbbing headache behind my eye. Left work early today and went to the doctor. Yes, we have round 4 of a sinus infection. On antibiotics and a decongestant again! Need to be well before vacation so didn't prolong going to the doctor. Hope the drugs kick it quickly.

Now a little humor for those that know me. See the three pictures above, this is the project bag for our trip. Found this bag at Walmart and it's like the one they sell online elsewhere for more. I thought this would be perfect for the trip. So far there is yarn for 5 pair of socks and I may put in one or two other pairs in progress, but this is all I'm planning to take for the week of vacation. Those that know me, know that I carry a lot more than that just to work for the day. A weekend at the lake will usually be two tote bags of various projects and I can't even remember how much stuff I took for a week at the lake earlier in the summer. Hubby will definitely be proud if this is all I take. Honestly, I hope we are too busy for me to finish the socks while on our trip.

Lots of Pictures

2007-08-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

We have a pair of finished men's socks for Socks for Soldiers that were knit on size 2 needles with Opal yarn. They should fit size 11-12.

A pink baby sweater set that was for an order. Already delivered.

Pictures of my flowers at the lake, they are pansies and petunias and they are very wild and doing well. The drip system hubby hooked up to them works wonders.

Two new pictures of Stitch, who is now 9 months old. He's as tall as the other two now, but a lot thinner and onery. He loves the lake and running on the beach. Sometimes he thinks it is great sport to not come back until he's ready for a nap.

We've been waiting to hear from the travel agent on whether we'll still be able to go to Jamaica Sept. 1-8 on vacation. We'll be on the northwest side of the island so I'm thinking it didn't get hit as bad as the southeast did. We are really looking forward to having some alone time without a schedule to keep. If we are able to go, I'm only packing one small project bag with socks in it. We are planning on scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, fishing, a canopy tour, etc. We plan to be very busy while there. Keep your fingers crossed that we can still go.

SP11 Questionnaire and Answers

2007-08-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

Opal, Interlacements, Socks that Rock, etc. I love sock yarns and prefer natural fibers. I can find a use for most any kind of yarn.

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

Needle storage containers and drawers of a plastic organizer by my chair.

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

Since I was about 8 years old. Gramma taught me how to crochet and I taught myself how to knit by looking at the pictures in a how-to book. I consider myself to be intermediate.

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

Yes an amazon wish list. http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/MJ3WNDQ97WU1/

5. What's your favorite scent?

Lilac, vanilla, rose

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

Yes, love dark chocolate and nuts.

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

I crochet, sew, most other crafts and someday want to learn to spin and get a spinning wheel.

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

Country Western, 70’s, 80’s, reggae, easy listening, instrumental, I’m pretty open. No hard rock though. Yes, my computer can play CD’s.

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

Pink, Purple, Yellow, and Blue. Not really.

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

Married to B.J. for 13 years. 5 grown children, 6 grandchildren. 3 basenji dogs and 2 african gray parrots.

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

Yes, it gets cold here.

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

Socks and baby sweaters.

13. What are you knitting right now?

Socks and baby sweaters

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Love them.

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

Depends on what I’m making. I use all and any depending on the project and yarn.

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

Yes, I have both.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

God only knows.

18. What is your favorite holiday?

Christmas

19. Is there anything that you collect?

Ladybugs and angels

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

I’ve let most of my subscriptions lapse. Any books are listed on my Amazon wish list. http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/MJ3WNDQ97WU1/

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

Still trying to master socks on circulars and magic loop.

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

Yes, I wear a woman’s size 7 shoe. 9 inches long and 9 inch circum.

23. When is your birthday? March 11

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

No, don’t even know what it is.

More Socks for the Soldiers Finished

2007-08-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

Done, washed, and mailed off today to the troops. 2 pair of socks in men's size 9-10. Currently working on some leisure (colorful) socks in a men's size 11-12. Should finish those this week.

Been too hot to work anything bigger than socks. :)

Hot Monday - New Car!

2007-08-13T16:17:00.000-07:00

Hot, hot, and hotter! 100 here today and supposed to be close to that all week. The work A/C couldn't even keep up and it got up to 80 in our area. Some people were NOT happy.

BJ is doing well and seems to have recovered from the spider bite. You can see where it bit him 4 times. I think he learned his lesson about going to the doctor on this one. He was lucky!

I bought a new car Friday night and not from the previous dealer. They weren't THAT sorry. We went to the other VW dealer and they treated us very well. Had a better selection and gave us a good deal. They actually had the color I wanted, which is blue graphite. It's a metallic blue - navy blue. It's a new VW Jetta TDI, which is diesel and will get up to 50 mpg. It has lots of gadgets and the best thing is that it has 12 air bags. BJ feels a lot better about having me on the road with a safer car. It has a huge trunk, the back seats will lay down flat also, so there is lots of room if you need it. I love my German made shoes so I'm sure I'll love my German made car. They are expected to run over 200,000 miles. There is 4 year roadside assistance included. So if I have a flat tire, need towed, etc., I just call them. Another feature that gives BJ peace of mind.

Off to knit on socks! They at least aren't hot to work on!

This has been a busy week!

2007-08-04T15:19:00.000-07:00

Wednesday was my first day as an employee of Agilent Technologies and no longer being a temporary. It was pretty anti-climatic, but that's okay. Since I'd been with Spherion for a year, I still got an annual review. It was very good.

Thursday night was the Toby Keith and Miranda Lambert concert at Red Rocks. I had meet n greet with Miranda and when I went to pick up my stuff for that, I found out that I also had a meet n greet with Toby Keith. Since his pictures are taken by his team and you have to download it from them, I don't have it yet. You can see it at www.tobykeith.com/photos, select August 2nd, and scroll down towards the bottom. I have on a pink tank top.

I am definitely not as young as I used to be. We didn't get home till midnight and getting up for work the next day wasn't fun. I had to come home Friday after work and take a nap.

I gave Miranda several Lisa memorialbilia. She did remember who Lisa was. She was so sweet. I also ran into Lauren, who stood in line with Lisa a year ago for meet n greet in Sterling. It was nice to meet her and her Dad.

Today, Saturday, was the MADD walk. We took the dogs and walked the 3 miles around Sloan's Lake. It was a little humid and warm. The dogs were dragging butt by the time we got to the finish line.

We then went to look at a VW Jetta Diesel and would've probably bought it if there wasn't some unpleasant conversation we had to listen to between the owner and a salesperson. He definitely should've went into a closed room where customers didn't have to listen to him discipline an employee. Really irritated us both and we left.

I would like something more fuel efficient, but it wasn't happening today.

Off to finish a sock for Socks for Soldiers. I have one done and also crocheted a baby blanket this week for an order.

Productive Sunday!

2007-07-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

We went to the lake Friday night and didn't get in too big of hurry since there were some horrible thunderstorms and rain. Slow driving. Lots and Lots of rain! It proceeded to rain all Friday night. Everything looks so much better now.

Saturday we were off to the annual Cabela's sidewalk sale. Behaved ourselves and didn't get too carried away. BJ found two pair of tennis shoes. I found a down coat originally marked $140 for $33 and a jacket originally $60 and got it for $15. Picked up a few pair of shorts, some shirts, and jeans with equally good pricing. Went back to the lake and layed around in the lawn chairs the rest of the day. Decided to come home late on Saturday so we could get chores done.

Sunday, I hit the ground rounding. Cleaned the house, been doing laundry all day. Washing and changing bedding. Cleaned out 6 bags of stuff for Goodwill and straightened up. Got the two big suitcases out for the trip to Jamaica so we can start putting things in them as we remember. Wound all the yarn that needed to be done. Then took a nap! :)

Now off to finish the laundry and work on some socks!

Hot Hot Hot here!

2007-07-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

First off two pictures of the doily I just finished for another wedding present. Someone asked about how I starch mine. I don't like them real stiff so spray with spray starch and iron. Makes them lay flat, but still have movement.

Two more baby sweaters for charity. I delivered 6 to the local hospital last week.

Then my prize from the Persistent Knitter. She did a random drawing to celebrate her new blog http://www.persistentknitter.com/ and I actually won. A pink bag, ball of Opal and 2 balls of KnitPicks sock yarn! What a treat! Thanks so much Nancy.

It's been in the upper 90's all week so I'm hiding in the a/c. We have a wedding to attend on Sunday. Then on August 2nd is the Toby Keith/Miranda Lambert concert. I already have my meet n greet for Miranda Lambert. Hard to believe it's almost a year ago that we took Lisa to Sterling to the fair to meet Miranda.

On August 4th I'm participating in the MADD walk to raise awareness and funding to help with drunk driving prevention and awareness. www.stridesforchange.org select city (Denver, CO) and I'm listed as participant Deborah Hartley. It's a 3 mile walk and you can bring your dogs so we probably will.

Trying to keep busy and I can't believe the summer is almost over. It'll be September 1st and time for our trip to Jamaica before we know it.

This is what has kept me busy.....

2007-07-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

These are two doilies that I've been working on this week. The large one had to be finished last night for a wedding reception. It was 36 inches in diameter and would've been done on the 4th except I had to take out about 12 rounds and redo them. Once it gets bigger, it takes longer to get around. I've been crocheting doilies for over 25+ years, but hadn't made any in a while. I prefer the diagram patterns since I'm very visual and don't want to take a chance that someone did a typo in the middle of a pattern.

These make great "keepsake" wedding gifts, especially for people that already have their households set up and don't "need" anything.

Now to make another baby boy layette for an order and then maybe I can get back to knitting socks again.

Supposed to be over 100 degrees here today so I'm hiding inside in the air-conditioning. Doing laundry, cleaning house, etc. BJ is off to work on a house remodel so that it can go on the market. Keeps him busy and he's learning new stuff. We are so much alike in that we like to have our hands busy.

Pictures from the Lake!

2007-06-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

One is of Stitch "fishing" in our boat. The others were take while out on the lake fishing. People ask us if there is any water in Lake McConaughy, yes - it may not be as deep as it can get, but it's still 26 miles long and 100 ft. deep in places. There is plenty of water for everyone and you don't have to even be near anyone if you don't want to be. The water temperature was 73 degrees yesterday. It felt really nice after sitting in the 90's for a while.

Wonderful Final Package from Secret Pal 10

2007-06-24T15:10:00.001-07:00

Look at the wonderful goodies that came while I was on vacation. My Secret Pal 10 pal, Susan from California, spoiled me! Let's see.... chocolates some in the shape of ladybugs and some are ghiradelli dark and some Lindor. Ladybug buttons, ladybugs to put on items, ladybug ribbons, the cutest ladybug finger nail clippers(going in my purse), Burts Bees hand creme and lotion, and a wonderful kit to make a ladybug using needle felting. I haven't done needle felting before and look forward to trying it. Thank you so much Susan!!!

Back from Vacation! Hot! Hot! Hot!

2007-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

We came back last night so we didn't have to drive in the heat. It's been in the 90's all week. Not too bright, today we went to the air show. Way too hot for that!

I did finish all of the orders I had as well as butterflies for a charity group, baby sweaters, baby hats, soap sack, etc.

The blue with green trim baby layette was an order. The character hat was also an order. Yahoo! I can deliver them tomorrow when I go back to work. Hope they like them.

The first 4 days our camping group was up, then BJ's parents came for a day, and then my parents came for a day. I had picked up a bath items knitting pattern book. Mom was looking at it and said that was exactly what she needed, a soap sack for all of the little ends of soap, so I made her one. We did catch some fish, swim, and rode jet skis. It was a wonderful vacation, but it's back to reality tomorrow. No more swimsuits and shorts all day. :)

Latest Finished Objects

2007-06-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

I've been busy the last couple of weeks. Finished another pair of Big Black Socks that are designated for the Ft. Carson group we are sending to.

Then I had a bunch of orders come in as well as some charity knitting projects. Finished a pink baby sweater set and 2 baby blankets for an order. Managed to finish another beanie for the troops. Then a lavender sweater for charity.

I now have more orders for baby items, a theme hat, and more BBS. We are on vacation the whole week after Father's Day and will be at the lake. I hope to get a bunch of stuff done, but who knows it was 92 here today, which doesn't make me move very fast.

Busy, busy, busy at work. Plus trying to get ready to go on vacation, they are moving my desk while I'm gone so I have to have everything packed this week. The good thing is I'll be on a team now and no longer a floater. There is also an opening on the Agilent side on my team, I'm planning on applying. Cross your fingers, more $, better benefits, bonus potential, etc. and I'd still be doing what I do now. I'm currently a contractor working onsite for Spherion. Everyone's goal is to "move to the other side" and work for Agilent. We'll see!

There sure aren't enough hours in the day. Seems like 8 p.m. everyday before we settle down and then it's soon time for bed. I have no idea where the evenings go.

Finally - Real Furniture - That even Matches!

2007-05-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Started out last Sunday going to get a new bed since ours was a $25 garage sale item from 13 years ago. One advantage of having a small house is it doesn't take much to furnish it. New bedroom set; dining set; 2 curio cabinets; and a livingroom set. Neither of us could remember ever having matching furniture that wasn't from a garage sale or cast offs from someone else. The couch and loveseat have dual recliners. It's a microfiber in a warm camel. No more office furniture pieces or old sofa sleepers!

The table is tall with bar stools so the dogs can no longer get up on the chairs to gain access to the table and our plate. :) One curio cabinet is my ladybug collection and the other is all Lisa's stuff and memories. They have touch lighting which is really nice. Less to dust, better display and the dogs can't reach any of it.

It's like having a new house without the headache. We managed to find all of it on sale of course. Makes the house look bigger without all of the clutter. Now to pay for it all.....

Sockknitters May Flowers Swap

2007-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Took what Char sent me! What a lovely surprise to come home from the long weekend and find!

5 skeins of sock yarn, Socks Soar on two Circular Needles (have to learn this), circular needles, stitch markers, folding scissors, flower kits, bath crystals, journal, sheep things, and angel wall hanging, seed beads for making pretty socks, etc. WOW what a great puffy! Thank you so much Char.

Yummy Package from Secret Pal 10

2007-05-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful surprise for a MONDAY! I was a little blue from Mother's Day, but this really cheered me up.

She sent 2 skeins of Jawoll sock yarn in a wonderful red and black varigated. Looks like a Ladybug! An adorable ladybug pen and different than any I've seen before. Some Burt's Bees foot lotion, boy do I need this this time of year! A cute pin of a woman knitting an endless scarf. The cutest minature pink and purple little sock. I'm thinking I'll make a pin out of it or use it as a Christmas tree ornament. Some heavenly smelling soap with a LADYBUG on it. It says it has sunny orange, fragrant mimosa and dainty violet. Smells like spring flowers! On top of all of this a bag of Lindor Truffles that won't make it till tomorrow.

Thank you so much for spoiling me rotten!

Family Gathering on Saturday

2007-05-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

A VERY rare picture of my parents, brother, and I.

A picture of me and my four children.

A picture of the four children and spouses in attendance.

A picture of Dr. Calvin's cake. He is now officially a veterinarian. They moved from Kansas back to Alliance, NE. They bought a place about 14.5 miles outside of town. Just far enough that you don't have to worry about traffic. He already has a job as a vet and Rayann is interviewing this week for RN jobs.

Felted Purses

2007-05-06T16:53:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of the latest batch of felted purses that I finished this week.

Lovely Weekend at the Lake

2007-04-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

We went to the lake and spent the weekend in the motorhome. It was 70-80's so it was really nice. Had to be careful of getting sunburnt and the mosquitos were out already. I can't believe it was that nice the end of April. Wonder what Summer will have in store for us.

I planted some pansies and petunias around our corner post and BJ put a drip system in so they get water.

I have seeds and bulbs to plant at the house yet and we want to get a lilac bush and a pink flowering shrub/bush.

I have 5 bags I need to felt and finish. Still working on my socks for soldiers.

New pictures of Stitch

2007-04-21T13:45:00.000-07:00

Stitch is growing like a weed and can jump up on almost everything. I attacks my yarn if I leave it out. This morning he got ahold of some handpainted sock yarn and made a mess before I had gotten it wound. Through perseverance, I was able to untangle and wind it. He is so fast and can make a mess very quickly. When he's good, he's really good, but when he's bad, he's really bad!

Secret Pal 10 Package Arrived

2007-04-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

Look at the wonderful goodies that came from my Secret Pal!!!

Some gorgeous sock yarn that she says sells out almost faster than it is made. It is Vesper Sock Yarn by Knitterly Things. Then a ladybug glass; wooden ladybugs; an adorable ladybug keychain; some yummy See's Dark Chocolate with Almonds; and a vintage Woolcraft how-to knitting/crocheting book published in 1935.

Thank you so much for making my week!!!

Pictures of the New Do

2007-04-17T16:23:00.000-07:00

Pictures of my new haircut taken this morning at work.

Monday - Monday

2007-04-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

Went in late to work today since I needed to go to the doctor again! Darn bronchitis won't go away. Add to that a kidney infection. So, I'm on another round of antibiotics.

The blizzard we were to get last Friday didn't happen. Mother Nature's Friday the 13th joke on the weather people. So we took off for the lake. It was in the 60-70's all weekend. I mostly rested fighting off these bugs. We are to get rain tonight and off & on all week. I'll take the rain to help everything keep turning green.

Got my hair cut really short. More of a pixie style and thinned. My hair is so coarse (especially the gray ones) and thick that it really looks better this way. Even the gal said, "You have such a small face that your hair overpowers it." Duh, how many times has my mother told me that. I just don't have the patience to mess with it and blow & go is much better!

Trying to teach myself 2 socks on 2 circs, but haven't figured it out yet. Toe up has me stumped at this point. It makes sense though to make a pair at once so they turn out the same size at the same time.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful week.

My Sockret Pal Package Arrived Today!

2007-04-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

A good day!

Needless to say, Blogger didn't let me put the pictures in order. You get the idea though.

What a wonderful surprise to come home to today. We have snow flurries and are under a winter storm warning for tonight through mid-day Friday. Possibility of up to 16" of snow.
First the packages all wrapped with notes on them as to what they were for. Then a picture of all the goodies unwrapped. Then another picture (doesn't do them justice) of the awesome socks Eve knitted me. They have cables and lots of fancy stitches. Lots more talented than anything I've made. They are out of Regia Silk in a burgundy color. Eve is extremely talented. Thank you so much Eve!

This is how much HELP I get while knitting!

2007-04-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

This is how much help I get while trying to knit. Three dogs in a pile!

Pictures of the CDOT sign & Headstone

2007-04-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures of the CDOT sign, which they will keep up for 6 years.

Also, a picture of her headstone, which is now up.

You can see our Easter snow.

This week's knitting accomplishments!

2007-04-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

First was a baby sweater set that a co-worker ordered.

I finally finished by first pair of big black socks for Socks for Soldiers. These will fit size 13-14 and took quite a while on size 1 dpn's. They are now washed and ready to be mailed out. Still working on a couple more pairs of leisure socks and more baby sweaters for charity.

Not a very pretty Easter here today. We have snow lightly falling and it's cold and overcast. We went to see the CDOT sign that is up for Lisa. It's in a great location and will be a constant reminder to many people where it's located. Then we went out to Ft. Logan to see if her headstone was up and it is. She's in a great location close to one end on a corner.

Cleaning, organizing, and knitting here is planned for the rest of the day.