Pay It Forward

I am participating in the PAY IT FORWARD on Snappish's Blog.

The way it works: I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog for this post. You don't have to be a regular commenter or even a blogger member, as long as you can get me your address by e-mail.I'm don't know what you will be getting yet, LOL, but as the rules state, you will receive it within 365 days. Most likely it will be sooner than that...like after the Christmas rush.The only thing you have to do in return is PAY IT FORWARD by making the same promise on your blog/site. Come on and join. This will be fun if you love getting nice things in the mail.

WIP: Blue Ribbon Doily

Yep, still working on this beauty. Honestly, I'm ready to set fire to it. I HATE IT! I will never, ever like making another popcorn stitch again...... here's the latest pic.

Two color Baby Socks

I've already started another pair! 4 stars for this novice pattern!

Here's the link to the pattern . Give it a try!

Elizabeth Hiddleson: Chantilly

Made with size 40 olympus thread, gifted from Lori. Diameter:12 inches. Size 11 hook.

bad blogger

I know! I know! I'm a bad blogger. Seems like since I started working all the time that I cant find a spare moment to type here. I'm going to work on that. I need to check in a few times a week just to keep up with reading YOUR blogs. And, I need to comment you all. Sigh. Bad Blogger Moment!

Catch up Sundaypost

todays project is finishing up some snowflakes for the upcoming Simply Crochet Flake Swap. Finishing up a pair of knit baby bootees for my cousins baby shower, and making a swift to play with some yarn. Hubby has gone to the wood shop to get materials to make a swift. We are going to play around with ideas and see what we come up with. I'll be sure to post pics of the process.

I've started taking my doily bag to work with me and crocheting on it during my lunch break. That way I can at least have alittle hook time to look fwd too. I bought a yarn winder from Joanns. Can't wait for that to get here. I will be a fiber fool then for sure!

Have a great Sunday ya'll!

Wow.

Your Score: Dionysus

0% Extroversion, 13% Intuition, 100% Emotiveness, 76% Perceptiveness

Although deeply emotional, you are extremely lacking in self-knowledge. You are somewhat needy, and when bored, may become very hedonistic. Your life is a quest for meaning, above all else. You are most like Dionysus. You are primarily interested in serving others, but your efforts are almost always unappreciated. You aren't confrontational, you're often out of tune with your own needs and unaware of the consequences of your own actions.

You are, at heart, a good person. You are very affectionate, and you are very loyal to your friends and family. You are very reluctant to burden others with your own problems, to the point that this in itself can become a problem for the people who care about you. This is a particular of a more general problem. Dionysus sends wave of ruin throughout his personal life. He is the photographer who seduces his subjects. He is the teacher who seduces a student. He is the art student who paints nonrepresentational splashes of color, he is the poet who rejects meter and content. You seek sexual partners more than anything else (this is to exploit the nurturing side of others to help fill your own void). If not sexual partners, this desire to become the object of sympathy with other people can manifest itself in other destructive ways. Stinkfist by Tool explains your condition pretty well. It's very likely that you haven't had many experienced mentors. You don't want them either, because you're the sort of person who rejects criticism and boundaries, but they're also your only hope for reaching any kind of emotional maturity.

Famous People Like You: John Lennon, Mick Jagger, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Marilyn Monroe, Hugh Hefner
I'd tell you to stay clear of Hermes, Icarus and Apollo, but you could probably learn something from them. You're least likely to hurt The Oracle, Atlas, Prometheus, and Daedalus, but Atlas and Daedalus won't like you very much.
Seek out: The Oracle, Prometheus

Link: The Greek Mythology Personality Test written by Aleph_Nine on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test

ROLL TIDE

In what might have been the best executed and conceived Alabama game plan since the 1999 SEC Championship Game, Alabama mauled Tennessee 41-17; Nick Saban made a definitive statement that he understands the importance of winning over rivals.

But the bigger statement than even the game, was Alabama’s willingness to suspend players before a big game for potential violations. It was the failure to act swiftly that began Alabama’s decades of misery. Not this time. The administration and coaches made clear they want to win the right way.


ROLL TIDE ROLL!!

Weekend Catchup post

Hi guys! Hope you all are getting some of the cooler weather. It is great outside! Which is yet another reason I've been a bad blogger. Heres a catchup post though.

We started phase 1 of our living room remodel last weekend. Its been that wonderful cream color since we moved here. The wallpaper border I found out had another layer underneath, that had been painted over. What fun to remove!



Found a helper who was willing to use alittle elbow grease, too.


So, after scraping border down, patching holes, and getting the walls ready to paint... WE PAINTED! Its a light olive green color. I'm in love with it!








Phase 2 will start in a few weeks. We are going to replace the berber carpet fug, with some hardwood or laminate. Haven't quite decided on that. I will get the same color flooring as the wooden shades. A light oak. And, of course, since I trashed the old baseboards, we'll have to replace them with new ones. I'm still debating on the curtain, or not curtain idea. I did have some basic white sheer curtains up, but Haven't really gave it much thought, since flooring is the next chore. Phase 3 will consist of a new front door (YAYS)



I have this vine running up the edge of my front porch. Mom said it was a moonglow vine. Its suppose to bloom at night and has the most wonderful fragrance. As you can see, mine is alittle confused on the time of day. LOL It sure is beautiful though! I planted some turnip seed a few weeks back and they are beginning to come up as well. Hopefully, they will be almost ready when the first real cold snap hits, and makes them super yummy.

Had alittle excitement Thursday afternoon, as a F1 tornado hit town. I raced it home (which is pathetic, but I didnt wanna be alone in a storm) So I went to hub's work and we snapped this pic out the window. Scary huh? Thats the only thing I hate about changing seasons, we always have storms. But, it cleaned out the air, no one was injured and the cold front behind it, is really nice.

I have been knitting a sock for the dd. Just your plain run of the mill basic sock. No pattern. One day I hope to advance up to a pattern, but for now I'm happy to just complete a wearable. I received my Yarn Pirate booty for the month. It rocks too. The girls both want something made from it... in due time girls, in due time.

Happy Fall guys! Until next time!

Loaded potato soup recipe - a must try!!

There is just something about the first cool snap that makes me want soup!

I don't know about you, but I have enjoyed the cooler weather we have been experiencing this week. There's only one problem with it, though. It makes me hungry! I guess I associate colder weather with the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, times that have always held very fond memories for me. Of course, they are also times when I get some very good food! My mother has always had a tendancy to try some new recipes in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, so I have alot of memories of being in a warm, cozy, fragrant house while it is shivering cold outside.

There is nothing quite as satisfying as coming in from the cold to a steaming bowl of soup that causes a flavor explosion the minute the first spoonful hits your mouth! Guess you can tell I'm a soup fan.

Today I made the best soup I have ever made. The whole family raved, picky girls included. They (the girls) ate 2 bowls! Now, the weird thing is, I found this recipe in the local newspaper. I seldom read thru enough of the paper to find a recipe, or anything else. So, today I'm sharing this easy-peasy recipe for some yummy soup. I served it with some cornbread muffins. I halved the recipe, because it makes alot, and I'm not going to spend alot of cash on ingrediants unless its good. (I will next time though)

Score for mom!

Loaded Potato Soup

4 cans chicken broth
1- 32oz. bag of frozen diced hashbrowns
2 cans cream of celery soup
2 cans cream of onion soup
8 oz. block of sharp cheddar cheese (cubed)
8 oz. block of Monterey Jack cheese (cubed)
8 0z. block of Pepper Jack cheese (cubed)
1 qt. half and half

for garnish
bacon, cooked and crumbled
chives/ green onions, chopped
shredded cheese

In a large pot, combine and simmer hashbrowns and chicken broth, until potatoes are soft. Add other ingrediants and continue to cook over medium heatfor 30 minutes or until all cheeses are melted. Garnish with bacon bits, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Word to the wise this recipe will feed an army, s if you want to make it for just the mmediate family, cut the ingrediants in half! Also, be sure to break out the largest pot you have when you make it. Trust me, you'll need it!

Chemo Caps

October is breast cancer awareness month. We all know that. My post today is about cancer. My mom's friend from work was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. SHe i going through the first round of chemo right now. Mom called and asked if I could make her a few chemo caps. Who could say no to such a request. I've been looking for a good basic pattern. I found this. So far. I've got some SS in navy and going to cast on tonight for this one. The pattern doesn't look to technical so maybe I can get her one soon.

Let's see. I work all the time now. Don't have much time for anything else. I have been knitting on a pair of boot socks for hubby. Since hunting season starts this weekend (sigh). I've been working in my living room. Removing wallpaper border (help me) and installing in-wall speakers, and mounting the tv on the wall. No, I didnt do it, but I did help hubs put the tv on the wall. The living room was cream colored. I'm sick of bland, so I've choen a light olive green. And I LOVE it! I've got 2 walls painted so far. This spring we will be putting hardwood flooring down and new baseboards. Then this room will be complete! Yays! I'll put pics up soon of my WIP room and the socks.

Hugs to ya all! I still read your blogs just dont post alot. Miss chatting with you guys!

Do You Buckle Your Swash?

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY!

ARRGH! Avast there mates, ye're sailin' with Long John Black Beard, Peg-Leg, Patch-Eye Hook, scourge of the bounding main. Bloodthirstiest, black-heartiest pirate captain ever sailed the seven seas, ha, ha, ha! What say ye we hoist the Jolly Roger, heel over the yonder Spanish galleon. Lay a few broadsides agin' her timers, swing over on these here lanyards with our cutlasses in our teeth cut 'em to ribbons and split the booty. What say ye to that, me hearties? Heh! Ha, ha, ha, ha!


Whats your pirate name? http://www.piratequiz.com/ I'm Bloody Grace Cash

My First Sock

Well here she is. My first sock. My first completed, I'm in love with sock. I know its plain. but it sure feels good on! I've already started on the mate. I didn't quite get the binding off thing. But I'm going to work on the other one and see if I can get the hang of it.

I'm in!

I know your thinking this is a shameless post about finally getting into the "Big R" (ravelry) But, you know I'm already there. If not, you should add me (dixieredhead)

Anywho, I'm IN @ yarnpirate. Whats that? You mean you aren't in the know? Simply a cool place to get a monthly stash enhancement without worry! Signups were this afternoon @ 4pm PST. I sat round the house waiting...and waiting...and waiting. But, it wasn't in vain. I'm in. And, can now wait...until said enhancement comes knocking on my door. YAYS! you could always join, too! come on over, if there is still room.

my wacky world + knitting excerpts

You know, during the day when I'm away from the computer, I think of all kinds of things to blog about. I type it up in my mind and rattle on and on to myself about what I will post when I get home. then I get here and all those thoughts I was so passionate about have vanished into thin air. Does anyone else get this type of amnesia when face to face with your computer screen?

Anywho. There is so much going on in my life right now, and I had chose not to blog about it. Mainly, because its "penny-anny". But, it is driving me so crazy I thought I might as well babble on... the girl I work for has told me repeatedly she is going to quit. Actually, this is I-Quit #4. which usually is a good thing to hear, unless you keep hearing it, and she keeps changing her mind. Its really crappy of her, to tell me one thing, and the very next day do another. So much so that I have my boss in the little circle on how she is doing me. For the past 3 weeks, its been I'm going to quit, I'm turning in my written notice ***day. ***day comes around and no notice. She calls again, can you work this week? I'm going to quit on ***day. Do you want to buy my mail jeep? ***day comes around... no notice. no quit. Sigh. Do you know what kind of nerve rollercoaster I've been on now? Its crazy one day shes quitting, the next shes not. Well, she called this weekend. I'm quitting for sure. I've typed up my notice and I'm handing it in Tuesday. Tuesday comes. She comes over to sign leave papers for the rest of this week. did she turn in the notice? Of course not. My boss gave her an ultimatium though. *girl* you have put our office on hold long enough. We have to move on with or without you. You cannot continue to just take a leave. You must make up you mind by Friday. (day after tomo) and let us know what your intentions are. We need your FINAL thoughts on this Friday. Ok. So now I'm tore up, again... waiting...again... for D-day. My boss wants me to train a girl tomorrow to help out though, so I guess she is thinking that *girl* might actually be seriously going to quit this time? Dunno. I'm just glad to have help the next 2 days. And hey I'm off saturday. I haven't had a Saturday off in awhile! I'm excited.

Now during all this chaos I'm getting happy/sad, too. The birthday cow is droppping on me tomorrow. gah. I'm getting old. Its nice to come around, but not nice to get a year older. More gray, more wrinkles, more wisdom. Mom & pop are coming up tomo night and bringing a pot of her homemade chicken dumplings. Looking fwd to that. Happy Birthday to me! #33!!




Thanks to Julie, I have decided to attempt another freaking sock. Can you beleive it? I've frogged every shred of evidence of socks within 2 days of the attempt. I'm on day 4 and still no frogs in the building! I'm using this pattern from Wendyknits. Its simple. Its toeup. I like it. I'm working on the leg now. I turned it without a problem. Amazing. I know! I have several sock yarns stashed away anxiously awaiting me to learn how to make socks. Maybe I can now. Who knows. I'm still worried about making an actual pattern, dunno how to go about that yet, but I think I'm getting the hang of the basic pattern. Thanks for all your help Julie!

I have been crocheting too. I'm still working on that blue ribbon doily in purple. well, I was until I ran out of thread. So I went to the hhtatting.com website to order more, and when it got here yesterday, I had ordered the wrong color. Who knew that lavender is a light pink. I thought it was a light purple. After calling handyhands and realizing it would cost more to ship back a mistake, than just reorder the *cough cough* "antique violet" thread, I decided to find another project for Christmas to use the lavender on. Now I'm still waiting on thread to finish thedoily.

I did complete that bright blue Hiddleson doily. I trimmed the edges with white (since I ran out of blue with one row remaining.) I just havent had time to block it yet. Pics soon though, I promise.

So theres my life in a nutshell. Who knew being postal could be so much fun?
Think some good positive thoughts for me Friday, as I will learn my fate of fulltime fun or parttime misery..... until then.... *hugs*

Honey, I'm home!!

You would have been so proud of me yesterday. I came through the surgery with flying colors! It was alittle edgy getting to and from the vehicle. but, I slept all the way home ( 2 hrs ) and 4 more hrs once I got home. Finally, got to removed the gauze packing, and now 4am the next morning I'm awake, hungry, and typing. Swelling is minimal right now, and as long as I keep the array of pills, for infection, swelling, and pain in my gullet doing pretty well. I want to thank you all for the thoughts I could really tell they were surrounding me! Well, its back to a bowl of soup now. Just wanted to update, I'm doing ok!

THANKS AGAIN!!

Oral Surgery

So, tomorrow is the big day. I'm getting a tooth extracted, and having to be put under. I'm so scared of being put to sleep. see, when I was 5 I was ran-over by a car, and over the course of a few months I was put to sleep several times, while my leg was rebuilt. after traction and months of therapy i am able to walk normally. But, I was put to sleep about 13 times. that is forever etched in my brain and thus tomorrow is a scary day. I told the oral surgeon abotu my fears. He prescribed ativan so I'm here doped up typing to all you out in "blog land" to light a candle, say a prayer, and/or remember me tomorrow as I go thru this. I know it will all go well. I have my faith in God to help me through this. But, I can use all the positive energy I can get. Thanks guys! I love yall!

Announcement: SEPT 12, International Crochet Day!

Yes folks its true. A day has finally been set aside for all us crocheters! A day all our own!! September 12, 2007 will be the first annual International Crochet Day! What can you do to celebrate? Donate items to local charities and shelters that you have made, sit quietly or with friends and crochet up a frenzie! It's your holiday, celebrate it however you wish! I will be working on a afghan a bunch of us are making for a special friend. (( If you haven't contributed and would like to email me for the 411))

Anywho, tell everyone you know, and mark your calander! SEPT12!!! Don't forget it!

I'm from Alabama

Someone, apparently from California wrote the top..then, someone from Alabama wrote the bottom and showed em what it do...lol..just read!

CALIFORNIA:

- I can wear sandals all year long

- I go to the Beach - not "down to the shore"

-Our chicks are WAYYYY hotter than yours. Well...Miami can hang.

- I say "like" and "for sure" and "right on" and "dude" and "totally" and "peace out" and "chill" and "tight" and "bro" and I say them often

- I know what real cheese & avocados taste like

-Everyone smokes weed and its no big deal

-We'll roll up 40 deep when something goes down.

-I live next door to Mexicans, but we call them American's!

-All the porn you watch is made here, cause we're better and thats how it is

- I don't get snowdays off because theres only snow in Mammoth, Tahoe, Shasta, and Big Bear

- I know 65 mph really means 100

- When someone cuts me off, they get the horn and the finger and high speed chase cuz we dont **** around on the road

- The drinking age is 21 but everyone starts at 14 (legally 18 if you live close enough to the border)

- My governor can kick your governors ***

- I can go out at midnight

-You judge people based on what area code they live in, and when asked where you're from, you give your area code

- I might get looked at funny by locals when I'm on vacation in their state, but when they find out I'm from California I turn into a Greek GOD

- We don't stop at stop signs... we do a "california roll"
No cop no stop baby!

- I can get fresh and REAL Mexican food 24 hours a day

- All the TV shows you "other" states watch get filmed here

- We're the Golden State. Not the Cheese State. Not the Garden State.....GOLDEN!!!

- We have In-N-Out (Arizona and Vegas are lucky we share that with them)

- I have the most representation in the House of Representatives, which means MY opinion means more than yours, which means I'm better than you [geez.... hahaha]

- The best athletes come from here

*******IF YOU'RE FROM CALIFORNIA, REPOST THIS*************IF YOU'RE NOT, GO SIT IN A CORNER AND CRY******

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


ALABAMA:

Ahem... So.. Um.. yeah... I read this, and thought I would reply...


Hey... California listen up... Alabama is where its at!

- I too can wear sandals all year long... plus I can put on boots to stomp your toes and I won't even stick out.

- You may be able to go to the "beach" instead of the "shore"... but can you go to the drive thru "Beer Barn?" What now surfer boy?

- You're chicks aren't way hotter than ours... they are almost equal... and thats only due to silicone, saline, botox, lasers and hair dye... We have the real ones and they can beat yours up.

- We're taught to say "Yes Sir" and "Yes Ma'am" and respect our elders because of it. We also say "Howdy" and "fixin" "taters" and "Yall" are pretty much recognized right away anywhere in the world We're famous

- You may know what real cheese and avocados taste like... but I know what 100% Grade A Angus Beef tastes like. Who wants avocados and cheese when you can have steak and potatoes?

- Haha... who do you think grows the weed and sells it to you?

- Why roll 40 deep when something goes down if 5 corn fed country boys can get the job done...

- I live next door to americans, but we call them mexicans

- Why would you brag about not getting snow days off?

- We're smart enought to know 65mph means 65, but our speed limit is 70.

- - When someone cuts me off, they get run over by my big *** truck, then I give them the finger and tell them to go back to california.

- The drinking age is 21, but if you aren't chasin the beer by 1 yr old... you're behind.


- You can go out at midnight? Thats nice, I haven't even come home by then.

- Ok... you said,"You judge people based on what area code they live in, and when asked where you're from, you give your area code" and as hard as I try I have no idea what you're talking about... I think you're watching too much tv.

- Yeah, you'll definitely get looked at funny when you come to visit but we have another name for you pretty boys, and its not greek, its french.

- Of course you don't stop at stop signs... none of you can drive.

- You can pick up Real mexican food 24 hours a day huh... well I can swing by home depot and pick up 24 Real mexicans anytime of day. Can you say catering?


- You can keep your golden state... We're the Beautiful State...the one and only!! So ***** please

- Do I have to remind you about the drive thru Beer Barn again? Does In-N-Out serve alcohol?

- You guys have the best athletes huh? What about 12 national football championships for U of Alabama and 16+ national swimming championships from Auburn oh and DUH everyone knows Mia Hamm, Terrell Owens, Jamarcus Russell, Jake Peavy and the HOOVER football team ETC. DUH! And Condaleeza Rice is the MVP for playin tonsil hockey with Bush

- Football is a religion, not a sport

- In Alabama, football means football, not soccer.

- Alabama is the best!

-People from Cali are stuck up and think they are better than everyone else. You can not drive, you smoke and stuff under age and are all doped up on steroids. The girls are fake, their boobs, plastic, nails, plastic. they are like freaking barbies, except not miniature.

-not to mention, only in the state of Alabama can you get honest to God sweet tea. I've been a lot of places and theres nothing like what you get back home; grits and corn bread, real fried chicken at grandma's, collards and pintos. And, once you leave the south, if you say mashed taters dont no one have a clue what you want. Oh, and where I come from, macaroni is a vegetable.

Happy Birthday Jimbo!

Dear Friends, I want to wish a very special birthday to my friend Jimbo.

He's the sweetest old toot that I have never met! I first met up with one of his now "famous" hooks about a year ago. (That was back when he handcarved most all of it) Fell in love with them, and the story that goes along with each one. If you have never had a real "JimmyB" in your hands, here is your chance. Take a quick visit over to his blog and check out some of those amazing hooks he makes. Bookmark his blog, as he auctions hooks off frequently.

As you can see in the pic, I have a few of his beauties.

Jim, I wish you the best of the best today! Hope you spend it with those you love, and doing what you love to do best!

Happy BIRtHDAY!

WIP:updates

I'm a bad blogger. I have things I'm working on, things I'm doing etc., but somehow I'd rather read blogs than my entries to my own lately. I do love keeping up with all of you and your goings-on. Finally, I took enough time this morning to do a catch-up on wip's.





First, I'm still working on the blue ribbon doily in that lovely shade of lilac. I'm alittle over halfway now. It's getting time consuming on the rounds now since they are so big. I'm striving to do at least 1-2 a day. Maybe I'll finish it by christmas.




Second, I started a new doily last night, from Elizabeth Hiddleson. i'm using some vibrant blue olympus size 40 that Lori sent me. It's my first time working with this thread. I'm loving it too. Very easy to use and a luscious shimmery texture. Thanks again Lori!




Third, SIGH. Ongoing battle. Socks. Why am I doing this to myself? Why cant I just be happy that I can crochet. Why try knitting. and knitting socks for that matter. I've frogged this yarn 3 times now. this is the latest assembly. Another basic sock. I'm using size 0 crystal palace bamboo needles. I've found out that most of my problems were with gauge and using to large needles for the project. Gauge is not something most doily makers worry with.I know I never have. But, wow, knitting is all about the gauge. Yes I know everyone knew that but me. I'm a trial and error kinda gal. Anywho, I've figured some things out, and I know I'll have loads more to learn as I go.

Todays to do list: go to post office, do dishes, laundry, and vaccum. not a huge list. But its only Tuesday...... Have a great day guys!!!

Dentists, Drama, and crap

I went to the Dentist to get a crown Wednesday afternoon. After he grinds ot down and preps for the crown, he decides there is too much decay and says Ill need to see an endodontist, or an oral surgeon. So basically he fills the spot where my tooth was with some filler and sends me packing. The receptionist then tells me the 2 the use does not accept my insurance. Hello?! Since when do we have to have the "cool" insurance? Seems like if soemone offers to pay, you should take them up on it. Just my opinion. So, they load me up with pain meds, and then send me home. I called them yesterday to see if they had found someone, which they have. Finally. Oral surgeon. I'm going to have it pulled ( if they can ). Its my very back molar on top. Not like I want to keep spending money on it. And if I got a root canal and crown, it would continuously cost me more to keep it up. they said my roots are curved, thats why the dentist would not attempt it. Here's the problem. I'm scared to be put to sleep. I'm so hoping he will just use a local. I've had a tooth pulled before and survived. Scared. Anxiety. I'm a basketcase. Now onto the next topic.....

Since I was feeling bad and on heavy meds. I decided to spend the day with hubs at his job. My neighbors came in to buy something and were talking to us. Friendly sorta people. We've always liked them, and got along real well. They left and I decided to come home after school to be with the dd's. Well, imagine my surprise when I drove up and found half my tree missing. Yes, you heard me. My neighbors had took it upon themselves to butcher my weeping mulberry tree on its complete left side. The branches were then pulled into my front yard for the city to pick up. WTF WTF WTF WTF!?? i called hubs who immedlately came home. WTF? The neighbors would not come to the door, would not answer their phone. Finally last night the neighbor blamed it on his brother and said he did it and billy bob couldnt stop him. WTF? The brother came over again this morning, and of coruse did not offer to come see us. I'm so pissed off right now. Going to see if the police will file a report about it. That was a beautiful tree. and now its going to die. I'm going to slap billy bob if I get the chance. This tree is completely on my property. that is whats the kicker. .... more on this saga later....

2nd to none

It was 114 on the thermometer when we departed on our trip. We drove for 5 1/2 hours. Whew. Since I drove there was NO crocheting time. Yes, it hurt me too. I had googled directions to a local yarn shop and actually went there before we even checked in for the competition. www.yarnhaus.com. They were having a sock knitting on circs class, I listened and watched abit. But didnt want to disturb them. Since the store was having a 20% off sale, I got some sweet deals!

We then went to the convention center and checked into our room..... on the 26th floor..... Hey, I felt like a queen. Valet parking, bellhop carting luggage, and the room was awesome! Feather pillows & comforters. granite shower, and what an immaculate view of the bay! We had the whole afternoon Friday to do as we pleased. So we pleased to restup and then head down to the lounge for some down time. Live music, great atmosphere. We had a great time.

Saturday was a day of mixed emotions. I do not like crowds. And, here I was surround by 1500 convention go-ers. So what do I do? Yep. I found my anxiety meds and took them. The county chairperson took me by the arm, after she found out I was shy and lead me thru the sea of people, introducing me and keeping me talking (and breathing). We went to the grand ballroom which was setup for our "ladies luncheon". 10 people sat at each table. and wow, there were so many tables. each table had a massive gift basket in the center. Some had kitchen stuff, bathroom stuff, bubbly (yes, liquor girls), and just all sorts of items. I would guess 150 baskets in total. For lunch we had a fruit plate. some fancy-schmancy chicken and rice dish, and what southern luncheon would be complete without a slice of pe-can pie and freshly whipped creme.

After lunch, we had a guest speaker from the Ronald McDonald House. and a fashion show, with heirloom kids, and then adult fashions. All handmade. After that, another speech. finally, we get to the goody of the situation. the prize winners. each one of us were asked to stand by our entries. I was so nervous. I told myself not to cause a scene. Not to hyperventilate, and not to stand "wonky". I think I did pretty well. 3rd place....not my name. whew. 2nd place.... my name. I was thrilled. They handed me the ribbon and prize money (cha-ching)then 1st place. It went to an elderly lady who squeezed my hand and cried. She kept saying. "ooh, ooh, i've never won anything! are you sure? is it me? ooh ooh! I admit I teared up. she kept holding my hand and shaking. Now, I was scared SHE was going to hyperventilate! I patted her hand and congradulated her. Her entry was pretty. Diamonds and squares in filet, in about a size 20 ecru thread. I was happy for her. I was happy I placed, but there is always next year,right? So we left that convention center and headed north. We stayed in the capital city and a regular little hotel. no down comforter, no down pillows, but a king bed so its all good. about 9 ish we got hungry and went in search of sustinance. We decided on the sho-gun Japanese resturant. Great time, great food, great company. Those chefs are amazing chopping and whacking that food into yummy goodness. I definately recommend it! Just got home awhile ago. Beat. but a feeling of satisfaction has came over me. I've never entered a crocheting contest before and to place 2nd in state, is not too shabby for a first-timer. Will I do it again? We shall wait and see! thanks to all who kept us in thought during our trip. I appreciate it!

Raw & UnEdited

a day of the blahs...I get the self-concious bug every once in awhile. And, today was it. Went shopping for a new outfit. Noticed my boobs are big, my butt is big, and everything in between is out of whack. Where did I go? Seems like when you hit 30 things start to sag, fall, and otherwise drop accordingly, except your weight. That has found a way to go up. grrrrr. It all started with that blasted free panty coupon from Victoria Secret. Which loures you into the shop. Then the $10 off bra, coupon pulls u even deeper in. Now I have some cute undies, but got the blahs when I brought them home. Got a cute pair of denim capris (a size larger than I wore last year) grrrr. and a black lacy tank. cute clothes. not cute me. I've got to start working out and really watching what I eat. I don't eat bad now, but the occasional pizza delivery and late night snack is catching up with me. What I feared most has happened. I've just about gained all the weight I lost back. Took months to lose it, and how fast it returns.... I want to cry.

annoying phone calls

HAVE YOU EVER GOT HOME FROM A HARD DAY AT WORK AND SAW ALL THESE STRANGE PHONE NUMBERS ON YOUR CALLER I.D.?? YOU REALLY WEREN'T SURE YOU WANTED TO CALL THEM BACK TO SEE WHO IT WAS??
WELL, I THINK I HAVE FOUND THE ANSWER. GO TO GOOGLE THEN TYPE IN "WHO CALLED US" WHEN IT COMES UP TYPE IN THE PHONE NUMBER.
WORKS BETTER THAN JUST TYPING IT IN GOOGLE. I WENT THROUGH MY PHONE TODAY, AND CLEARED IT OUT.. MOST OF THEM WAS JUST SPAM
IT WILL EVEN TELL YOU IF IT IS A DEBT COLLECTION AGENCY..
HOPE I HAVE BRIGHTENED SOMEONES DAY.... HAVE A GOOD ONE.

I don't know if I mentioned that I won the county crocheting contest back in April. Anywho, today I finally received my prize in the mail. 50.00 woot! I will be going next weekend to compete in the state competition. I have found out there is only 8 of us with a crocheting entry. *yays* Its all all expense paid trip and if I happen to win there is a 150.00 prize! Yall keep me in ur good threadie thoughts. I've never entered a contest, much less won anything.

Everybody Luau!

We have been anticipating #2's birthday party for 3 weeks. Everyone knew about it. So what does my mail carrier do? She hints around each week that she needed off the dayof the party for a wedding. I kept telling her I coudn't work. Had sent invitations, we were having a party. ( I never tell her no, either) So what does she do? She calls the NIGHT BEFORE and tells me someone died and that she needed off. Saturday and Monday. Well I said fine I would work. But you know she went to that wedding on Saturday. My mom and SIL ran around frantic all day getting everything prepared for the party. I chunked mail all day and came straight home, changed and had a luau! In the end it was fun, the girls had a great time. I have one word for the carrier though.... KARMA!

Thank you Kelly!

I had some lovin' waiting at my doorstep this afternoon. No, not the mailman... a Fiber & Frappe Swap package from Kel! She was so GOOD to me, too!!! She sent a beautiful butterfly bookmark, which will come in handy since I'm reading Harry Potter! 2 Silky Wool hanks in a gorgeous sage green and a pound of Kona coffee. (which I've never tried,and am anxiously awaiting my morning cup now more than ever) I appreciate your thoughtfulness! I love it all & can't wait to put it to good use!

How to make a right twist stitch

Thanks to my SIS, Su for making me this WONDERFUL tutorial!!

Happy Birthday #2!

Happy Birthday to DD#2. Hard to believe my baby is 11~ When I think back about how much she has grew up, I get teary-eyed. She was the most beautiful baby, with soft strawberry blonde hair and the biggest blue eyes peering up at me. Ah, my darling, Happy Birthday!






We have been working on the signs for her party this weekend. And, spent a quiet day reminiscing, and enjoying each other's company. She had a family dinner yesterday and had a wonderful time. This weekend its the friend's party... She told me she was too old to have a friend over to her family dinner and wanted a luau swim party with a dozen or so of her "close" friends. LOL. What could I say but..ok baby. Your wish is my command......

Not Another Name Doily

Why yes, yes it is. I received an invite to a friends wedding and whats a wedding without a dreaded name doily? I used size 20 opera and size 10 hook. It turned out classic, just like marriage itself. Ironic, maybe.

What tha?

I've been working alot this week, hence not alot of updates on my blog. The 7 uba pups are growing like weeds. They will be a week old Sunday. I received an invite to a friends wedding shower in 2 weeks, so I'm dropping projects and starting a name doily for her. Thank goodness for a short name is all I gotta say!

We made strawberry freezer jam today. The girls enjoyed helping me, and I enjoyed the help. 24 jars. Whew.

We have a bent n dent grocery in town, and today they started receiving organic whole food products. I'm a happy camper. I love buying natural products but they are so expensive I usually just get the necessities. Today I splurged :-) Yes, I know to watch out for certain things. But considering they are not out of date, they are not damaged, and they are 90% off the store price.. It's all good.





*disgruntled, just ask* I'm coping with my carrier calling me to say she is thinking about quitting again, and wanting me to work for her until further notice. Turns out "the further notice" was one day. Count it again O N E day. This is the 2nd time she has pulled this on me. I'm NOT getting my hopes up again. I'll go and work, but I'm not saying a word to no one about it.

It's septuplets!

My darling Millie gave birth to her first (and only) litter of pups this AM. She woke us up whining, with one pup already born. Soon after 6 more followed. They are 3/4 dashund and 1/4 fiest.The proud pappa is a fullblood brown dashund. 4 boys.3 girls. My whole neighborhood came over to see her babies. I've already got several people wanting one. I'll leave u with these pics. It was such a memorable day for the dd's. From start to finish they were there, watching, discussing, and learning about the miracle of birth. When all this is said and done Millie will be spayed. Our vet had told us that is was better for a dog to have one set of pups, that it would help keep their temperments good in old age. I have to say I was hoping here would be a little Millie.

My New Sock

Here is what I'm working on

WIP:updates

I know I haven't posted what exactly I've been working on the last few days so here is my update.
Another sock. One day I'm going to get this, I promise.

Ball Band Dishcloth. Had extra yarn, yadda yadda

My very first toddler sock. warped and frustrated.

Blue Ribbon Centerpiece Doily

Ok so that should catch up all I've been doodling with. I really like the doily and the dishcloth. the socks... well thats an ongoing frustration, but I'm dealing.... Have a good Thursday!!

I Have a TITLE again

So, after reading on the blogger help page I found out that I'm not the only one having the title problem. It said they are working to fix this problem, and to move ur mouse to the very top corner and it would work. VOILA! I'm back in business.

I'm a Rocker, too Jolene!

I never thought of being a super cool blogger chick. LOL

Thanks to my sis, Su, for this nomination!

I chose 5 blogs I read everyday, that I haven't seen nominated somewhere else already. So take the button and nominate 5 bloggin' girls that r o c k:

Julie @ with a hook

Ana @ Lullabies and Lace

Kelly @ The Crafty Cat

Sarah @ Bulky Yarns and Big Hooks

Wendy @ Earthwhisper Fiber Arts

Whew. That took awhile. I'm having blog trouble again. I cant post titles since I swapped templates. Any thoughts on how to fix this? Anyone? Anyone? Please?

discover your dog breed @ quiz meme