First off, I was successful in registering for the Drawing class I mentioned yesterday. I'm very excited to start and once Spencer comes back over from his Dad's, we'll hit the art store for a nice pretty new sketch pad for me. :) The rest of the supplies I need will come from Spencer's stash. There is also an "optional supplies" portion of the list, but we'll be ignoring that bit.
And now for the addicting part. And no, I'm not talking about my Viggo DVDs...altho I have to confess, Viggo III is currently playing in the background...sigh.
My current addiction continues with the Tunisian crochet stash blankies. I've decided to use some recycled yarn from 2 identical sweaters (a ton o' yards!) for a blanket for myself. Two strands of that held together with various other recycled yarns and yarns I've picked up from my favorite Thrift Stores and gotten from my various enablers (Mom) in the past. OH! And I'm finally going to use the 24 year old baby blue yarn I bought while I was a student in Seville back in '85. The base yarn is green (of course - this blankie is all M.I.N.E.) and I'll add the other colors as they run out, just like I did in Spencer's blankie.
Can't wait to see how it all turns out. I just loved the green yarn when I spotted the sweaters and it was always intended to be made into something for me. Now I've finally come up with something useful for myself. I'll have a photo of either the finished blankie at the weekend or it will be pretty damn close to it as these monsters work up lickity split. Guess I should go to Ravelry now and add the project!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Sammie on Sunday...
...no photos this time as we have been bonding on the couch...and I didn't want to ruin the moment.
Lately my little princess and I have been at odds...fighting over who has ownership over the laptop...or the office chair...or the mouse. She's been quite the little fuzzy white pill lately.
She's even learned where the delete key is on the keyboard, and has been having way too much fun sitting on the mouse and alternately right and left clicking by switching her weight.
The list of things she's been doing lately goes on and on, and I won't bore you, but let's just say, things are never boring when I sit and do the job search thing and chat to Honey in the morning.
Sigh.
Tonight we've come to some sort of truce...either that or she was cold... We sat together tonight watching crap on TV. Her on my lap purring, me dutifully petting and petting and petting. It was very calming for both of us and I've missed that interaction these past few weeks.
I'm hoping she'll hop up onto the bed tonight and sleep in "her corner" again. I've missed her. Where has she been sleeping? On the damn office chair! Gah!
Anyway, I finally checked the mail from Saturday as I came home from an afternoon out with my friend and partner in crime, Antonella...and there was the local class schedule for the Adult Continuing Education place. Kitty and I had a quick read thru and decided I should take a Drawing Class. It's on Tuesday mornings going for 8 weeks. Folks 55 and older have priority registration since it's a day class, but I'm hoping there's no rush on the class - please leave a spot for me...pretty please?
Several years ago, I signed up for a similar class in the evening and it ended up being canceled because not enough people signed up. I can't even tell you how disappointed I was! I had my sketch pad and pencils and rubber erasers all ready to go...I ended up handing them over to Spencer. Which only means, I get to go shopping for new supplies! :)
Fingers crossed this time it works. If I do find a job before it ends, well, I just stop going. It's not that much ($36 for residents for 8 classes) and it's something I've always wanted to do...and it'll keep me busy. Plus I get a really good ride in going to class...it's about a 7 or 8 mile round trip bike ride guaranteed once a week.
After my morning "job" of looking for work and then spending some time chatting with Honey tomorrow, I'm off to register...and if I get in, I get a supplies list and can go to the art store this week. I think I should probably wait until Spencer gets back from his Dad's. Going to the art supplies store is "our thing" and if I go without him, I don't think he'll ever forgive me.
Wish me luck!
Oooh! Have I mentioned that I've dropped 9 lbs since I stopped working? Can I get an "amen sister?" I'm also sleeping better...can you say I love not having a stressful job anymore?
Now to just find a job before the stress of not having one sets in.....sigh....
Lately my little princess and I have been at odds...fighting over who has ownership over the laptop...or the office chair...or the mouse. She's been quite the little fuzzy white pill lately.
She's even learned where the delete key is on the keyboard, and has been having way too much fun sitting on the mouse and alternately right and left clicking by switching her weight.
The list of things she's been doing lately goes on and on, and I won't bore you, but let's just say, things are never boring when I sit and do the job search thing and chat to Honey in the morning.
Sigh.
Tonight we've come to some sort of truce...either that or she was cold... We sat together tonight watching crap on TV. Her on my lap purring, me dutifully petting and petting and petting. It was very calming for both of us and I've missed that interaction these past few weeks.
I'm hoping she'll hop up onto the bed tonight and sleep in "her corner" again. I've missed her. Where has she been sleeping? On the damn office chair! Gah!
Anyway, I finally checked the mail from Saturday as I came home from an afternoon out with my friend and partner in crime, Antonella...and there was the local class schedule for the Adult Continuing Education place. Kitty and I had a quick read thru and decided I should take a Drawing Class. It's on Tuesday mornings going for 8 weeks. Folks 55 and older have priority registration since it's a day class, but I'm hoping there's no rush on the class - please leave a spot for me...pretty please?
Several years ago, I signed up for a similar class in the evening and it ended up being canceled because not enough people signed up. I can't even tell you how disappointed I was! I had my sketch pad and pencils and rubber erasers all ready to go...I ended up handing them over to Spencer. Which only means, I get to go shopping for new supplies! :)
Fingers crossed this time it works. If I do find a job before it ends, well, I just stop going. It's not that much ($36 for residents for 8 classes) and it's something I've always wanted to do...and it'll keep me busy. Plus I get a really good ride in going to class...it's about a 7 or 8 mile round trip bike ride guaranteed once a week.
After my morning "job" of looking for work and then spending some time chatting with Honey tomorrow, I'm off to register...and if I get in, I get a supplies list and can go to the art store this week. I think I should probably wait until Spencer gets back from his Dad's. Going to the art supplies store is "our thing" and if I go without him, I don't think he'll ever forgive me.
Wish me luck!
Oooh! Have I mentioned that I've dropped 9 lbs since I stopped working? Can I get an "amen sister?" I'm also sleeping better...can you say I love not having a stressful job anymore?
Now to just find a job before the stress of not having one sets in.....sigh....
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Totally Wierd Topic Thursday
Ready...set...go....release your 12yr old selves and let the comments fly...
* GUYS - If you are uber-sensitive to girl things...skip this post. If you've got a good sense of humor, join in. :)
* GUYS - If you are uber-sensitive to girl things...skip this post. If you've got a good sense of humor, join in. :)
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
I know, I've been absent...
I have enjoyed being semi-unplugged since I officially stopped working on May 15th.
Have been very busy as well.
There was finishing the Dress.
Really wish I had a dress form....this hanger does NOT do this dress justice...at all!
There was mad, crazy, almost all night gaming at KublaCon...
There was bike fixing, switching out of various and sundry bike bits and pieces.
There has been bike riding almost EVERY day! I've dropped 5 pounds so far... YAY!
And there was not much knitting or other crafting...except for Mom's birthday earrings.
I've been in a sort of a 'crafter's block' situation. My head is bursting with crafty ideas for knitting, sewing, crocheting, embroidery, combinations of all of the above...lots of prototypes for stuff to put out on my shop need to be made...the crafty list is endless.
Yet...I could do nothing.
Enter the craft palette cleanser...
Remember the "birthday balls" from last summer?
Well those 45, plus about 5-10 more, along with random balls found here and there round the Chaos, make up this BIG, HUGE, bad boy of a blankie (big enough to cover a twin size bed and then some - in the photos, it's on my double bed). Enter Size S extended Tunisian Crochet Hook, 3 strands held together, and Voila! Check out Stitch Diva for an easy Tunisian Tutorial - I also bought my S hook from them at Stitches West back in February. They also have a pattern for a stash buster blanket, but I just did my own thing.
The dominant colors in my acrylic stash were black and various shades of dark blue. I held one strand of black, one strand of blue and then just grabbed for colors. The balls were stacked nicely in the container according to color, so I attached one color, used it til it ran out, then started on the next and so on and so on. The photos don't do it justice as it's rather cool looking and flows pretty well from one section to another. Using the black and blue as the "glue" was a very good idea. Eventually I ran out of black and blue and then started in with the other base colors of green and dark red...and then found some more black, so added it back in... It was a fun project!
I started this sucker on the evening of June 1st...worked on it every night that week for about an hour or two, one or two hours over the busy weekend, left it alone until last night...DONE!
Insta-warm blankie, and the acrylic stash is G-O-N-E. At least I think it is....I'm sure more of that stuff will pop up...I swear, it breeeeds.
It's BIG, it's HEAVY, and it's Spencer's. He likes lots of weight and warmth on him in the winter while he sleeps. This should do it.
Craft palette cleansed.
Had an interesting last few days, but will save that for another post. I'll try not to stay away from the computer so much. :)
Have been very busy as well.
There was finishing the Dress.
Really wish I had a dress form....this hanger does NOT do this dress justice...at all!
There was mad, crazy, almost all night gaming at KublaCon...
There was bike fixing, switching out of various and sundry bike bits and pieces.
There has been bike riding almost EVERY day! I've dropped 5 pounds so far... YAY!
And there was not much knitting or other crafting...except for Mom's birthday earrings.
I've been in a sort of a 'crafter's block' situation. My head is bursting with crafty ideas for knitting, sewing, crocheting, embroidery, combinations of all of the above...lots of prototypes for stuff to put out on my shop need to be made...the crafty list is endless.
Yet...I could do nothing.
Enter the craft palette cleanser...
Remember the "birthday balls" from last summer?
Well those 45, plus about 5-10 more, along with random balls found here and there round the Chaos, make up this BIG, HUGE, bad boy of a blankie (big enough to cover a twin size bed and then some - in the photos, it's on my double bed). Enter Size S extended Tunisian Crochet Hook, 3 strands held together, and Voila! Check out Stitch Diva for an easy Tunisian Tutorial - I also bought my S hook from them at Stitches West back in February. They also have a pattern for a stash buster blanket, but I just did my own thing.
The dominant colors in my acrylic stash were black and various shades of dark blue. I held one strand of black, one strand of blue and then just grabbed for colors. The balls were stacked nicely in the container according to color, so I attached one color, used it til it ran out, then started on the next and so on and so on. The photos don't do it justice as it's rather cool looking and flows pretty well from one section to another. Using the black and blue as the "glue" was a very good idea. Eventually I ran out of black and blue and then started in with the other base colors of green and dark red...and then found some more black, so added it back in... It was a fun project!
I started this sucker on the evening of June 1st...worked on it every night that week for about an hour or two, one or two hours over the busy weekend, left it alone until last night...DONE!
Insta-warm blankie, and the acrylic stash is G-O-N-E. At least I think it is....I'm sure more of that stuff will pop up...I swear, it breeeeds.
It's BIG, it's HEAVY, and it's Spencer's. He likes lots of weight and warmth on him in the winter while he sleeps. This should do it.
Craft palette cleansed.
Had an interesting last few days, but will save that for another post. I'll try not to stay away from the computer so much. :)
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sammie on Sunday is postponed to bring you...
...Kublacon weekend...
We got home at 1am on Friday night/Sat morning....
3am Saturday night/this morning...
Just walked in about 3o min ago.
The boys have been non-stop Warmachine tournamenting. Yesterday they set personal records...13 hours straight at the tables with back to back tournaments. They were pretty much zombified when we left the Con this morning. I had to wait until we arrived home before I could give into zombification since I was responsible for getting them home. :)
Ms Cow and I just aren't used to all this late night activity...
Up and at 'em again by 8:30 this morning. Good grief.
Tomorrow we are up early to get to the Con by 9am. "One last game"...kinda like "one more row" only you destroy someone else's army instead of finishing a sock, or sweater or something warm and cuddly.
I'm tired, kitty has missed me (and I her), and my bed should be warmed up and ready for me to dive in...good thing I'm lazy and haven't taken off our heated mattress pads yet. It's been cold here!!!!!! And it's even colder down at the Convention - it's down in Burlingame just past the SF Airport. Foggy and very very windy!
And now, kitty and I are headed to bed...warm, soft, wonderful bed....
We got home at 1am on Friday night/Sat morning....
3am Saturday night/this morning...
Just walked in about 3o min ago.
The boys have been non-stop Warmachine tournamenting. Yesterday they set personal records...13 hours straight at the tables with back to back tournaments. They were pretty much zombified when we left the Con this morning. I had to wait until we arrived home before I could give into zombification since I was responsible for getting them home. :)
Ms Cow and I just aren't used to all this late night activity...
Up and at 'em again by 8:30 this morning. Good grief.
Tomorrow we are up early to get to the Con by 9am. "One last game"...kinda like "one more row" only you destroy someone else's army instead of finishing a sock, or sweater or something warm and cuddly.
I'm tired, kitty has missed me (and I her), and my bed should be warmed up and ready for me to dive in...good thing I'm lazy and haven't taken off our heated mattress pads yet. It's been cold here!!!!!! And it's even colder down at the Convention - it's down in Burlingame just past the SF Airport. Foggy and very very windy!
And now, kitty and I are headed to bed...warm, soft, wonderful bed....
Friday, May 15, 2009
Sorry so boring around here lately...
I can't help it. Not only have I been extremely busy, but I've been sick off and on for a very long time (damn allergies) and for the past week I've been dealing with a pulled back muscle.
There are many days where I don't even want to get up. What's the point? The coughing, the sneezing, the pain. But yet I do, and I trudge thru the days and try to sleep thru the nights.
Whine whine whine...
The lastest...
My last day at the paying job is tomorrow (or should I say today, it is after midnight). I just checked my bank balance. The last deposits have been made. It's pretty much officially over except for shipping out the laptop. Sigh.
Work on the costumes continue. The dress is almost done. I have to do just a few more things to finish attaching the bodice to the skirt and then it's the hem and we're off to school sometime tomorrow. And that's it for costumes. Good thing too, the first performance is next Wednesday.
The Casa de Chaos is a total wreck. Even worse than before. The poor cat is covered in bits of fabric and thread. That's what she gets for sleeping under my sewing table in a pile of fabric bits and pieces. She's royal, she likes velvet, what can I say?
I've got lots of cleaning up to do. Looking forward to getting a few boxes worth of stuff out of the house and back to former paying job. Then it's time to dive into what's left. Not like I'm not going to have some time on my hands. Sigh.
Taking some time off. Maybe I'll see a movie. Maybe I'll just stay home with my butt and relax for once. The back needs rest. The brain needs rest. My sanity needs rest. Yes, doing nothing for a week or two sounds wonderful.
Next Friday begins KublaCon Weekend with the Boys. WooHOOOOOO!!!!
I hope to be out on Sgt. Puff again next week, so definitely need to get my back well. I haven't been able to do much and even spent Mother's Day flat on my back in bed and medicated. Lovely.
Also need to kick the job search into high gear, help out a friend at his new business (non-paying job), and start making some stuff for my online shop. I've been ignoring way too many important things around here - including myself.
Sigh.
It's late, I'm tired, my bed is heated up and ready. I know, it's hot out here, but it does feel good on my back and helps my muscles relax after a long day at the computer and sewing table.
Oh, and THANK GOD for massaging shower heads.
Oh, and Ibuprofen too.
There are many days where I don't even want to get up. What's the point? The coughing, the sneezing, the pain. But yet I do, and I trudge thru the days and try to sleep thru the nights.
Whine whine whine...
The lastest...
My last day at the paying job is tomorrow (or should I say today, it is after midnight). I just checked my bank balance. The last deposits have been made. It's pretty much officially over except for shipping out the laptop. Sigh.
Work on the costumes continue. The dress is almost done. I have to do just a few more things to finish attaching the bodice to the skirt and then it's the hem and we're off to school sometime tomorrow. And that's it for costumes. Good thing too, the first performance is next Wednesday.
The Casa de Chaos is a total wreck. Even worse than before. The poor cat is covered in bits of fabric and thread. That's what she gets for sleeping under my sewing table in a pile of fabric bits and pieces. She's royal, she likes velvet, what can I say?
I've got lots of cleaning up to do. Looking forward to getting a few boxes worth of stuff out of the house and back to former paying job. Then it's time to dive into what's left. Not like I'm not going to have some time on my hands. Sigh.
Taking some time off. Maybe I'll see a movie. Maybe I'll just stay home with my butt and relax for once. The back needs rest. The brain needs rest. My sanity needs rest. Yes, doing nothing for a week or two sounds wonderful.
Next Friday begins KublaCon Weekend with the Boys. WooHOOOOOO!!!!
I hope to be out on Sgt. Puff again next week, so definitely need to get my back well. I haven't been able to do much and even spent Mother's Day flat on my back in bed and medicated. Lovely.
Also need to kick the job search into high gear, help out a friend at his new business (non-paying job), and start making some stuff for my online shop. I've been ignoring way too many important things around here - including myself.
Sigh.
It's late, I'm tired, my bed is heated up and ready. I know, it's hot out here, but it does feel good on my back and helps my muscles relax after a long day at the computer and sewing table.
Oh, and THANK GOD for massaging shower heads.
Oh, and Ibuprofen too.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Still here...
And still working hard...
Things have been rather chaotic in the Chaos lately. I'm taking a much deserved break tonight. No personal crafting, no chores (I'm look at you laundry), no costume work....just me and the couch tonight.
This old body needs a rest - it's been thru a lot lately.
Lots of stuff going on...end of job next Friday, final fittings of costumes on Monday/Tuesday, KublaCon coming up, loads of ideas for the shop, loads of ideas for personal crafting projects...sigh.
On a happier note, I think the pools have opened! Time to start up swimming again. Spencer and I LOVE swimming.
Things have been rather chaotic in the Chaos lately. I'm taking a much deserved break tonight. No personal crafting, no chores (I'm look at you laundry), no costume work....just me and the couch tonight.
This old body needs a rest - it's been thru a lot lately.
Lots of stuff going on...end of job next Friday, final fittings of costumes on Monday/Tuesday, KublaCon coming up, loads of ideas for the shop, loads of ideas for personal crafting projects...sigh.
On a happier note, I think the pools have opened! Time to start up swimming again. Spencer and I LOVE swimming.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Sammie on Sunday
Single White Female seeks...
HEY!!! Why you shut puter? I waz just getting started. You are an evil woman. Eeeevillle! Grrrr.
I can't believe it's been so long since I posted...welll, yes I can.
I've been busy doing this (making costumes)...
...among numerous other things.
Check out the evil look I'm getting...Spencer said, "In my own defense it was at 6:30AM! In the MORNING! You're evil Mom. EVIL!!!"
So I responded: "Stop whining or I'll make you model the poofy knee pants too!!!"
"GAH!"
Muahahahahahahaha
HEY!!! Why you shut puter? I waz just getting started. You are an evil woman. Eeeevillle! Grrrr.
I can't believe it's been so long since I posted...welll, yes I can.
I've been busy doing this (making costumes)...
...among numerous other things.
Check out the evil look I'm getting...Spencer said, "In my own defense it was at 6:30AM! In the MORNING! You're evil Mom. EVIL!!!"
So I responded: "Stop whining or I'll make you model the poofy knee pants too!!!"
"GAH!"
Muahahahahahahaha
Monday, April 13, 2009
It's the 500th post...whoopty doo....
OK, so it's not as inspired and creative and all hoopla-y like I wanted it to be...deal with it.
I've been fighting a losing battle with allergies and finally went to the doc today. Came home with some really gung-ho meds. Nothing like some booyah drugs to take care of bidness! Looks like I'll be on the allergy meds full time during the 'season' again. That's what I get for wanting to get out and bike while it's snowing pollen. I've got some nerve, don't I?
Really sounds like I'm on something besides allergy meds doesn't it...what DO they put in those nose sprays now-a-days?!?
Seriously tho, I'm just so excited cos after one spray up my snozzle, I'm ready to go. I've got lots to do, so the whole world better just step aside, I'm back...and I'm going to start knocking out some awesome stuff.
First off, Spence and I had this totally awesome Sammie Sunday planned out. Picture Kitty in an easter basket surrounded by fake grass and plastice eggs. Kinda like a "Watch out Cadbury Bunny, Princess Sammie is in da house/we're really not amused about this" thing.
As you can see from the lack of photos, that didn't happen. Total. Non-cooperation. Damn. Cat. Next...
My big plans for a really cool 500th post shot to hell once I figured out I needed a zillion photos to do it and lots more time than I had and more brain power than I could muster...so now it's going to be a series. I'm calling it "The Family Jewels Series". Not the crown jewels, altho that does give an idea for a Sammie Sunday photoshoot. And not those kinds of family jewels - you dirty minded people!!!
This series is going to highlight the artistic side of my family - as in every one is a jewel to be admired cos they are talented and I love them, etc. Which also will include Honey and his folks cos they are quite talented as well. And with everyone included, it will be a lovely, long and hopefully extremely interesting series. Stay tuned. Not only do I have to gather photographic evidence, but it all has to be organized and of course I've got to pull all these ideas out of my head, but make sure nothing else leaks out.
Good heavens this is getting long. Next...
Been doing a lot of reading...can't do much else, so have been knocking back the Terry Pratchett Discworld Series... came to a halt with that one tho, as I still need to get some missing books, so have moved over to Angels and Demons for something different. Love me a good mystery, murder every so often. Next...
Working on some costumes for Spencer's school. The drama class is putting on "Rosencrantz and Gildenstern are Dead". I'm making 5 pieces and one Queen's dress. Cue panic. I've lost a lot of time with this cos of all the stomach flu and allergy and sinus headaches bordering on mini-migranes (oh the PAIN!!!). But that's all over now and I'm back in business. Time to start crankin'!!!
AHA!!! I've remembered why I'm such a spaz right now. I'm caffeinated. Forgot to tell the girl to give me decaf when I got a coffee while I was waiting for my prescription. NEXT....
Still trying to get some cool projects out of my head and off the "to-do" list and on to some needles. Shhh...they are secret. So I'm hoping the 'Jewels' series of posts will keep your minds off what I'm doing. heh heh heh. Next!
Working on another project called "Stitches on the Bridge". I'm hoping to make a small panel with the Golden Gate Bridge double knitted on it...thought that would be cool to make a bridge to go on the bridge. Have the yarn, have the swatch, need to grid out the design. Thought it would be cool to get in on some "sanctioned" guerilla knitting - after, all the panels get auctioned for charity. So I'm knitting for good and not evil. Next!!
Am so far behind on my SF sock club socks. Don't really care, I AM working on them and they DO get knit on during sock club meetups and bus/train rides. Next...
Lastly - yay!!! she's about to shut up!!!! - got some "new" stuff to work on more things for my shop! OHHHH, and speaking of shop, check out the videos that were just posted up over at the Phat Fiber blog. D'Lnn Designs gets a shout out at timestamp 6:35 in the first video. Yay!!!!
I'm sure there is lots more I could post, but I think I'm starting to crash. GOOD GOD!!! When did it turn 8pm...I've been working on this damn 500th post for too long. Gah.
I've been fighting a losing battle with allergies and finally went to the doc today. Came home with some really gung-ho meds. Nothing like some booyah drugs to take care of bidness! Looks like I'll be on the allergy meds full time during the 'season' again. That's what I get for wanting to get out and bike while it's snowing pollen. I've got some nerve, don't I?
Really sounds like I'm on something besides allergy meds doesn't it...what DO they put in those nose sprays now-a-days?!?
Seriously tho, I'm just so excited cos after one spray up my snozzle, I'm ready to go. I've got lots to do, so the whole world better just step aside, I'm back...and I'm going to start knocking out some awesome stuff.
First off, Spence and I had this totally awesome Sammie Sunday planned out. Picture Kitty in an easter basket surrounded by fake grass and plastice eggs. Kinda like a "Watch out Cadbury Bunny, Princess Sammie is in da house/we're really not amused about this" thing.
As you can see from the lack of photos, that didn't happen. Total. Non-cooperation. Damn. Cat. Next...
My big plans for a really cool 500th post shot to hell once I figured out I needed a zillion photos to do it and lots more time than I had and more brain power than I could muster...so now it's going to be a series. I'm calling it "The Family Jewels Series". Not the crown jewels, altho that does give an idea for a Sammie Sunday photoshoot. And not those kinds of family jewels - you dirty minded people!!!
This series is going to highlight the artistic side of my family - as in every one is a jewel to be admired cos they are talented and I love them, etc. Which also will include Honey and his folks cos they are quite talented as well. And with everyone included, it will be a lovely, long and hopefully extremely interesting series. Stay tuned. Not only do I have to gather photographic evidence, but it all has to be organized and of course I've got to pull all these ideas out of my head, but make sure nothing else leaks out.
Good heavens this is getting long. Next...
Been doing a lot of reading...can't do much else, so have been knocking back the Terry Pratchett Discworld Series... came to a halt with that one tho, as I still need to get some missing books, so have moved over to Angels and Demons for something different. Love me a good mystery, murder every so often. Next...
Working on some costumes for Spencer's school. The drama class is putting on "Rosencrantz and Gildenstern are Dead". I'm making 5 pieces and one Queen's dress. Cue panic. I've lost a lot of time with this cos of all the stomach flu and allergy and sinus headaches bordering on mini-migranes (oh the PAIN!!!). But that's all over now and I'm back in business. Time to start crankin'!!!
AHA!!! I've remembered why I'm such a spaz right now. I'm caffeinated. Forgot to tell the girl to give me decaf when I got a coffee while I was waiting for my prescription. NEXT....
Still trying to get some cool projects out of my head and off the "to-do" list and on to some needles. Shhh...they are secret. So I'm hoping the 'Jewels' series of posts will keep your minds off what I'm doing. heh heh heh. Next!
Working on another project called "Stitches on the Bridge". I'm hoping to make a small panel with the Golden Gate Bridge double knitted on it...thought that would be cool to make a bridge to go on the bridge. Have the yarn, have the swatch, need to grid out the design. Thought it would be cool to get in on some "sanctioned" guerilla knitting - after, all the panels get auctioned for charity. So I'm knitting for good and not evil. Next!!
Am so far behind on my SF sock club socks. Don't really care, I AM working on them and they DO get knit on during sock club meetups and bus/train rides. Next...
Lastly - yay!!! she's about to shut up!!!! - got some "new" stuff to work on more things for my shop! OHHHH, and speaking of shop, check out the videos that were just posted up over at the Phat Fiber blog. D'Lnn Designs gets a shout out at timestamp 6:35 in the first video. Yay!!!!
I'm sure there is lots more I could post, but I think I'm starting to crash. GOOD GOD!!! When did it turn 8pm...I've been working on this damn 500th post for too long. Gah.
Monday, April 06, 2009
(#&%()*@&^$#(*@
Damn allergies. They've moved into my sinuses and have maken themselves very comfortable. My nose is alternately stuffed up and running.
Mint tea is brewing as I type this...that should help relieve some of this...whine whine whine....wah wah wah....
Next post will be my 500th!!! Hopefully I'll have something more exciting to talk about besides just how stuffed up my nose is and how much I hate certain things having to do with current-almost-not-employer and taxes.
Mint tea is brewing as I type this...that should help relieve some of this...whine whine whine....wah wah wah....
Next post will be my 500th!!! Hopefully I'll have something more exciting to talk about besides just how stuffed up my nose is and how much I hate certain things having to do with current-almost-not-employer and taxes.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
A love affair renewed...
Today Spencer and I met up at the BK to do some bike work. He switched out his center pull brake for a side pull one, then found a Fixie back wheel and switched that out. I had to work on my brakes and my front wheel.
Last Monday while Spence and I were out riding, well, we didn't get very far at first, because one of my bungee cords slipped down thru my front basket, wrapped itself around the wheel thingy and there you go. Headed back to the apartment, left Sgt Puff and headed out instead on Honey's bike.
Anywho, I haven't ridden my bike all week - I've been on Honey's - and Oooh...his saddle is so uncomfortable. Spencer said the front wheel was a bit wobbly and since we had the extra bike, it hasn't been that big of a deal. I packed Sgt Puff up on the bus rack this morning and we headed over to meet Spence at the BK.
Several hours later, brake cables lubed and adjusted, front wheel worked on and true once again and chain lubed. I did all the work myself!!! Before I trekked out to BK, I took off the front basket and hardware and one of the back baskets. I'm going tomorrow after Sock Club to get a fabric pannier. I'll eventually get two, but one will do for now. It'll be good to have something lighter weight that can be removed easily if I don't need it.
Now that she's all lean and mean and lubed and adjusted...don't we all wish we were - ahem - I've got a girl crush on her all over again. We just flew down the trail...and most importantly, I can carry her again. :)
Can't wait until tomorrow morning when we can ride again to BART. It's SF Sock Club first Sunday meetup! wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Last Monday while Spence and I were out riding, well, we didn't get very far at first, because one of my bungee cords slipped down thru my front basket, wrapped itself around the wheel thingy and there you go. Headed back to the apartment, left Sgt Puff and headed out instead on Honey's bike.
Anywho, I haven't ridden my bike all week - I've been on Honey's - and Oooh...his saddle is so uncomfortable. Spencer said the front wheel was a bit wobbly and since we had the extra bike, it hasn't been that big of a deal. I packed Sgt Puff up on the bus rack this morning and we headed over to meet Spence at the BK.
Several hours later, brake cables lubed and adjusted, front wheel worked on and true once again and chain lubed. I did all the work myself!!! Before I trekked out to BK, I took off the front basket and hardware and one of the back baskets. I'm going tomorrow after Sock Club to get a fabric pannier. I'll eventually get two, but one will do for now. It'll be good to have something lighter weight that can be removed easily if I don't need it.
Now that she's all lean and mean and lubed and adjusted...don't we all wish we were - ahem - I've got a girl crush on her all over again. We just flew down the trail...and most importantly, I can carry her again. :)
Can't wait until tomorrow morning when we can ride again to BART. It's SF Sock Club first Sunday meetup! wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Thursday, April 02, 2009
It comes to this....
Behold what has to be done so I don't go running into my son's room on his day off or the weekend yelling...
"OMGOMGOMG...it's 7:30!!!! We forgot to set the alarms. YOU NEED TO GET UP YOU'RE LATE FOR SCHOOL!!!"
...on whatever days, this reversible sign is put up on his door frame...
Personally, I think it's funny - you all know how I love to torture my one and only. But after the first time, it just makes me look crazy...sigh. The 7:30am panic was the 2nd time I did it. The first time I did it, it was 6:30am on a holiday, it was still dark out, and I went barrelling into his room "OMGOMGOMG" and turning on all his lights. What a hoot that was...
Told him if he valued his sleep, he'd put some sort of notice up letting me know what day it was...heh heh heh...
At least I'm a crazy mother with no grey hair. I took J's advice and headed to the Paul Mitchell School. I'm a happy camper.
"OMGOMGOMG...it's 7:30!!!! We forgot to set the alarms. YOU NEED TO GET UP YOU'RE LATE FOR SCHOOL!!!"
...on whatever days, this reversible sign is put up on his door frame...
Personally, I think it's funny - you all know how I love to torture my one and only. But after the first time, it just makes me look crazy...sigh. The 7:30am panic was the 2nd time I did it. The first time I did it, it was 6:30am on a holiday, it was still dark out, and I went barrelling into his room "OMGOMGOMG" and turning on all his lights. What a hoot that was...
Told him if he valued his sleep, he'd put some sort of notice up letting me know what day it was...heh heh heh...
At least I'm a crazy mother with no grey hair. I took J's advice and headed to the Paul Mitchell School. I'm a happy camper.
Monday, March 30, 2009
It's about time for a recipe, don't you think?!?
Surprisingly enough, I "do" cook, and have discovered that what I do manage to churn out of the kitchen that is not charred beyond recognition or still cackling or gobbling is quite good.
I present...
The "This really only takes 30 minutes" Pasta and meatballs - with sauce of course. :)
This has become one of Spencer's favorite meals...and mine too I must admit. Servings per ingredients as listed below - we usually have enough for a dinner for two, and then 2 more dinner portions and a lunch portion left over. It's all personal preference though as your servings may vary from mine.
Make sure you have the following pots, pans and food in house and ready for action:
Big pot for pasta, one large pan to make meatballs and sauce - that's all the pots/pans you need - seriously.
Ingredients:
1 package of Trader Joe's frozen turkey or beef meatballs
1 28 oz can of Trader Joe's Marinara sauce
1 bag of your favorite pasta
1 med or large onion
1 med or large bell pepper
half a container of sliced mushrooms
some olive oil to cook up the veggies
fresh baguette
bag of pre-washed salad leaves
cherry tomatoes
Start your timer folks and lets get to it!!!
- Fill up your pasta pot with the appropriate amount of water, cover, put it on the burner, and crank it up!
- If meatballs are frozen, put on plate, cover and start defrosting in microwave.
- Place large pan on burner, at just above medium heat, add a bit of olive oil.
- Chop entire onion and add to pan - the oil should be hot enough by now.
- Chop entire bell pepper and add to the pan.
- Check water, keep an eye on your veggies.
- Meatballs should be thawed by now, cook on regular micro setting for a few minutes.
- Onions and peppers should be just about cooked, add the sliced mushrooms.
- Water should be boiling by now, add the pasta and set the timer.
- Your veggies should all be just about done, so open up that can of marinara and add it to the pan! Don't forget to lower the heat a bit and let it simmer while the pasta finishes - it's a good idea to partially cover it to minimize mess on your cooktop.
- The meatballs should be finished in the micro and nice and warm, add them to the pan with the veggies and the marinara sauce - partially cover and continue to simmer.
- There should be a few minutes left on your pasta - now's the time to cut a few slices of baguette and/or toss together a side dish. (We usually make a salad using cherry tomatoes and a bag of prewashed salad.)
- Depending on your pasta, it should most likely be done by now.
- Drain, put it back into the big pot, dribble some olive oil on it, sprinkle on a bit of black pepper, and give the pasta a good toss.
Ring the dinner bell and chow down!!
I made this over the weekend to feed Spencer and his friend that was over visiting. We did have less leftovers tho. Hee Hee. Teen boys LOVE this! I set the timer for 30 minutes when I did it, just to see if I could stay within the time "limit". I had the pasta, meatballs and sauce ready to eat in 23 minutes. Plenty of time to throw together a simple salad like we do and/or cut up some fresh bread.
Happy Nomming!!
If you try this recipe, let me know what you think. It's quick and easy and takes pre-made sauce and meatballs to the next level. And I don't have to tell you it's quick - which is good when you are being stared down by a few hungry teens!!!
I used all Trader Joe's ingredients because they are the store I go to the most. I have found frozen meatballs at other grocery stores though, and you can use whatever jar or can sauce you like. I do recommend that you have at least about 28oz or your sauce will be all veggie chunks and meatballs and hardly any sauce.
Ooh, and it's inexpensive too. If I ever remember, I'll jot down the prices of all the ingredients and let you know - no promises tho!
Damn, it took me longer to write this post than it did to cook this up the other day!!!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sammie Sunday...Not the damn bike again...
Look!!! She's AWAKE!!!!
Let's see what's happening in my kingdom...
Ack...it's that damn bicycle again...
It's NOT that exciting...
REALLY, it's NOT...
Ooh...an itch...much more exciting...
So NOT worthy of our attention...
Scary big truck going past our balcony!!! Run away!!! Run away!!!
And there you have it. Sammie on Sunday...awake and alert and not amused by the bikebikebike.
Let's see what's happening in my kingdom...
Ack...it's that damn bicycle again...
It's NOT that exciting...
REALLY, it's NOT...
Ooh...an itch...much more exciting...
So NOT worthy of our attention...
Scary big truck going past our balcony!!! Run away!!! Run away!!!
And there you have it. Sammie on Sunday...awake and alert and not amused by the bikebikebike.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
D'Lynn Designs is Open for Business!
Hi everyone!
This is what I've been working on this week.
D'Lynn Designs Artisan Studio over on Artfire.com is officially open for business! WOOOHOOOO!
I decided to just go for it and open a new online store. First I came upon the Phat Fiber Sample Box. Then I thought for a bit...checked out my supplies...thought some more...and decided, why not?
I read about Artfire.com on a couple of the craft blogs that I subscribe to...and figured...I should do that.
If you want to check it out, Register on ArtFire.com . I really like it so far. It's quite a bit different from Etsy, but it seems easier to use to me. The link above there is linked to my Studio, so if enough of you decide to sign up, I get my Studio for free. It doesn't really matter if you do or not, since I got into an early deal of $7 a month for life for the first few thousand crafters to sign up. There are only 111 accounts left at that price last time I just checked (just now). Otherwise, it's $20 a month. There are no extra fees...ever. And if you sell something - you keep it all! No selling fees, no listing fees - EVER!
I am VERY excited to have this new shop. I've spent all week making up samples for Phat Fiber, and then making up new things to put into the Studio. It's the most fun working I've ever had... It was wonderful to have Spencer and Honey helping me and cheering me on the whole way.
Anyway, pop over to the shop, have a look around, tell your friends and enjoy!!!
Oh yes, I have started up a blog for the shop. I'll be posting new additions to the shop, specials, and so on, so subscribe and follow along in the adventures of the D'Lynn Designs Studio!
This is what I've been working on this week.
D'Lynn Designs Artisan Studio over on Artfire.com is officially open for business! WOOOHOOOO!
I decided to just go for it and open a new online store. First I came upon the Phat Fiber Sample Box. Then I thought for a bit...checked out my supplies...thought some more...and decided, why not?
I read about Artfire.com on a couple of the craft blogs that I subscribe to...and figured...I should do that.
If you want to check it out, Register on ArtFire.com . I really like it so far. It's quite a bit different from Etsy, but it seems easier to use to me. The link above there is linked to my Studio, so if enough of you decide to sign up, I get my Studio for free. It doesn't really matter if you do or not, since I got into an early deal of $7 a month for life for the first few thousand crafters to sign up. There are only 111 accounts left at that price last time I just checked (just now). Otherwise, it's $20 a month. There are no extra fees...ever. And if you sell something - you keep it all! No selling fees, no listing fees - EVER!
I am VERY excited to have this new shop. I've spent all week making up samples for Phat Fiber, and then making up new things to put into the Studio. It's the most fun working I've ever had... It was wonderful to have Spencer and Honey helping me and cheering me on the whole way.
Anyway, pop over to the shop, have a look around, tell your friends and enjoy!!!
Oh yes, I have started up a blog for the shop. I'll be posting new additions to the shop, specials, and so on, so subscribe and follow along in the adventures of the D'Lynn Designs Studio!
Friday, March 27, 2009
I haven't been ignoring you on purpose...
...honest I haven't. I've been busy making these...
...and these...
...and these...
Ladies and gentlemen, you are looking at some of the 50 (yes 50!) single stitch marker samples that I just shipped off to Phat Fiber - go ahead and see what it is...and don't forget to come back. hee hee I was accepted as a contributor to the April Phat Fiber Sample Box.
Every monthly box has a theme, April's is "Green". Samples for the box could be either green in color, or eco-friendly, or organic, or upcycled/recycled, etc...
My single stitch marker samples were all made from beads and dangles from jewelry that I've been collecting for the past year or so. I've collected all types of bracelets, earrings, and necklaces that would have been tossed into the trash or stuffed away in the back of someone's jewelry box and reworked them into some very pretty things.
I've been spending the last week, with the help of my wonderful tech-savy Honey, getting everything ready to go. Contributors had to have a set of graphics - Honey helped tremendously with those - to submit to the site for advertising. I also had to do some writeups - Honey was my proofer - a second pair of eyes to give everything a good once- or twice-over...and a gorgeous set of blue ones they are! ahem... anyway... Then the samples needed to be made up, packaged and shipped off - Spencer helped me package them last night.
I'll post soon about what's going on over here in the Chaos including why I'm sending off samples!
Photos and links and all sorts of info soon!
...and these...
...and these...
Ladies and gentlemen, you are looking at some of the 50 (yes 50!) single stitch marker samples that I just shipped off to Phat Fiber - go ahead and see what it is...and don't forget to come back. hee hee I was accepted as a contributor to the April Phat Fiber Sample Box.
Every monthly box has a theme, April's is "Green". Samples for the box could be either green in color, or eco-friendly, or organic, or upcycled/recycled, etc...
My single stitch marker samples were all made from beads and dangles from jewelry that I've been collecting for the past year or so. I've collected all types of bracelets, earrings, and necklaces that would have been tossed into the trash or stuffed away in the back of someone's jewelry box and reworked them into some very pretty things.
I've been spending the last week, with the help of my wonderful tech-savy Honey, getting everything ready to go. Contributors had to have a set of graphics - Honey helped tremendously with those - to submit to the site for advertising. I also had to do some writeups - Honey was my proofer - a second pair of eyes to give everything a good once- or twice-over...and a gorgeous set of blue ones they are! ahem... anyway... Then the samples needed to be made up, packaged and shipped off - Spencer helped me package them last night.
I'll post soon about what's going on over here in the Chaos including why I'm sending off samples!
Photos and links and all sorts of info soon!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sammie Sunday...minus the Sammie
...since HRH Sammie is buried under the covers keeping warm, and I've already shown you a picture of a motionless lump under the duvet...
I decided to show this video of Spencer on his "new" bike...minus the peddles and the chain...hence the "Fred Flintstone imitation comment"...
The bike, by the way, was finished yesterday. It's currently a single speed and not a fixed gear like he wanted. He has to get the correct rear wheel, blah blah blah yada yada yada bikebikebike. I don't really speak bike yet, so....whatever.
Anyway, we went to the "Grand Opening Party" for the Bike Kitchen this afternoon - and spotted a small orange frame that just might work for a bicycle for me! We are off to BK next Saturday and hope it's the right size. I'm looking to build a light weight bike for distance riding. Sgt Puff will still be around for local riding and shopping and errand running, but she's not good for distance - she's too heavy for that - she's good for short distances and carrying lots of stuff. And she does it very well!
More photos of his new bike, and maybe my newest addition later...and yes, I know...I still owe you guys a recipe.
I'm exhausted...time for bed! Should have been snoozing hours ago...
I decided to show this video of Spencer on his "new" bike...minus the peddles and the chain...hence the "Fred Flintstone imitation comment"...
The bike, by the way, was finished yesterday. It's currently a single speed and not a fixed gear like he wanted. He has to get the correct rear wheel, blah blah blah yada yada yada bikebikebike. I don't really speak bike yet, so....whatever.
Anyway, we went to the "Grand Opening Party" for the Bike Kitchen this afternoon - and spotted a small orange frame that just might work for a bicycle for me! We are off to BK next Saturday and hope it's the right size. I'm looking to build a light weight bike for distance riding. Sgt Puff will still be around for local riding and shopping and errand running, but she's not good for distance - she's too heavy for that - she's good for short distances and carrying lots of stuff. And she does it very well!
More photos of his new bike, and maybe my newest addition later...and yes, I know...I still owe you guys a recipe.
I'm exhausted...time for bed! Should have been snoozing hours ago...
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Last Minute Sammie Sunday and our "New" addition to the Chaos
Here are a few more videos of Sammie...checking out Spencer's new bike.
I was feeling much better, so we headed out on Saturday to The Bike Kitchen in San Francisco, paid $30 for "digging rights" and got lucky. Spencer found a frame the right size for him (finally!) and we built up a bike - we were there from opening til closing. It's still missing a few important bits (pedals, a chain, and a brake - just one brakes as he's making a fixed gear bike), but we're going back soon to finish it off.
Here's a photo of The Bike Kitchen (new facilities)...
And Spencer, the proud "daddy", with his "new" "baby"...
Go check out The Bike Kitchen (we call it BK). They're a non-profit service type of place - run completely by volunteers and donations of bikes/bike parts and money. Lots of really nice people and they do a lot for the local community. If you check out the links in the second paragraph (titled We have moved to 650H Florida St), you can see how exactly they moved back on Feb 22nd. In the rain. Spence and I were there helping. If you pay attention really closely, you can recognize the two of us in a few of the photos. For "action" shots of riding thru San Francisco in the rain, I'm wearing a bright orange rain poncho, and Spencer is wearing a blue rain poncho. We had a blast and are happy to support The Bike Kitchen and all they do. For non-riding photos, Spencer has on black/red/white plaid shorts (yeah, I know) and I've got my bright coral riding jacket on...
Spencer has tomorrow off, and as I'm feeling even better every day, if it's not raining, we're going off for a short ride. I can't wait...I have missed being out on my Sgt Puff and am really pretty much pissed that I missed out on the awesome riding weather we had last week!
I will post about projects and the recipe I promised...this week! Promise!
I was feeling much better, so we headed out on Saturday to The Bike Kitchen in San Francisco, paid $30 for "digging rights" and got lucky. Spencer found a frame the right size for him (finally!) and we built up a bike - we were there from opening til closing. It's still missing a few important bits (pedals, a chain, and a brake - just one brakes as he's making a fixed gear bike), but we're going back soon to finish it off.
Here's a photo of The Bike Kitchen (new facilities)...
And Spencer, the proud "daddy", with his "new" "baby"...
Go check out The Bike Kitchen (we call it BK). They're a non-profit service type of place - run completely by volunteers and donations of bikes/bike parts and money. Lots of really nice people and they do a lot for the local community. If you check out the links in the second paragraph (titled We have moved to 650H Florida St), you can see how exactly they moved back on Feb 22nd. In the rain. Spence and I were there helping. If you pay attention really closely, you can recognize the two of us in a few of the photos. For "action" shots of riding thru San Francisco in the rain, I'm wearing a bright orange rain poncho, and Spencer is wearing a blue rain poncho. We had a blast and are happy to support The Bike Kitchen and all they do. For non-riding photos, Spencer has on black/red/white plaid shorts (yeah, I know) and I've got my bright coral riding jacket on...
Spencer has tomorrow off, and as I'm feeling even better every day, if it's not raining, we're going off for a short ride. I can't wait...I have missed being out on my Sgt Puff and am really pretty much pissed that I missed out on the awesome riding weather we had last week!
I will post about projects and the recipe I promised...this week! Promise!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Sammie Sunday, Double Whammy Wednesday Edition
Yes, I'm late again. I've been down with the worst stomach flu I have ever had...EVER. Things have not been pleasant here in the Chaos.
I did manage to remember, in a moment of rare conscious activity, to actually take the following video (yes, Sammie on video!!!) and photo on Monday. Not bad for laying half-conscious in my bed...
Enjoy...
Here is HRH Sammie performing her daily Royal Bath...
And the resultant Rest After Bath...
Stay tuned for an awesome "This Really is a 30 minute Meal" Recipe and some knitterly projects. And some non-knitterly projects.
I have to gather all my photos and get some rest.
I did manage to remember, in a moment of rare conscious activity, to actually take the following video (yes, Sammie on video!!!) and photo on Monday. Not bad for laying half-conscious in my bed...
Enjoy...
Here is HRH Sammie performing her daily Royal Bath...
And the resultant Rest After Bath...
Stay tuned for an awesome "This Really is a 30 minute Meal" Recipe and some knitterly projects. And some non-knitterly projects.
I have to gather all my photos and get some rest.
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