Sock It To Me Twice Swap!

I am participating in Sock It to Me Twice secret pal exchange! Below are my answers to the questions.
The Questions:
1.How long have you been knitting? Do you consider yourself beginner, intermediate, advanced?
I consider myself an intermediate knitter. Always room for improvement!

2.How long have you been knitting socks?
A little over a year. Knitted sweaters, afghans and such before

3.What are your favorite fibers to work with?
I am bit of a yarn snob. I love wool and other natural fibers.

4.What is your favorite color?
I love pink, purple, and blue.....but I love all colors except orange.

5.What are your current WIPs (works in progress)?
Oh...so many...several socks, a sweater and a lace shawl. The lace shaw is my newest venture. I actually have just gotten the yarn but it is so calling my name!

6.Name your favorite yarns, (brand, fibers, colors, etc.).
Debbie Bliss, Jitterbug, Lornas lace, and well I am game for any yummy yarn that is a natural fiber.....I love to experiment!

7.What are some yarns/fibers that you stay away from.
Acrylics...they feel so yucky....it is so hard to knit with them.

8.What is your family situation? (Married, kids, pets?)
I live alone..divorced, no pets and my daughter is grown (she is an avid knitter like her mom!)

9.Name some of your hobbies.
I love to quilt. There are times I can't decide which to do....knit or quilt! I am a fiber lover!

10.Name some of your favorite movies?
Driving Miss Daisey and Steel Magnolias....I am a true Southerner but with a modern outlook!

11.Do you like to read?
Yes..mysteries!

12.Do you collect anything?
I love any type of sewing gadgets, and I am a tote bag queen....I love little zippered pouches and such!

13.Do you own an iPod or mp3 player?
I have an iPod.

14.What are your favorite type of knitting needles?
Addis or wooden

15What knitting notion could you not live without?
My trusty tape measure, which I always seem to misplace but eventually find in the previous project bag!

16.Who are some of your favorite designers?
I like most..haven't picked a fav yet.

17.Do you subscribe to any magazines? (Knitting or otherwise.)
No not yet...just keep looking at them....I am more of a book person.

18.When is your birthday?
December 29th...just around the corner..wink, wink!

19.Do you have a "wishlist", (on Ravelry, Froogle, or Amazon)?
Working on one....but not yet...I seem to buy a book before I put it in my list.

20.Do you have a Ravelry ID?
Will post when I set it up...please check back.

21.If you had a sheep, what would you name it?
Scrappy

I Have Overwhelmed Myself Again

Right now at this moment I am trying to hold it together. I finally got out 3 packages of swap things. Yeah...one big task down. I still owe one more and I know she is furious with me. But my heart has not been in it. I am now trying to clean out 30 years of memories and make room for my new bedroom set. It is being delivered in 2 weeks. I also am having major work done to my home and oh my what a mess! They actually won't start until 6 weeks from now but guess what time frame that is???? Christmas. So..along with school and my other things ...well .... I am majorly over extended. My mom ..bless her...is down helping me throw out ...weed out...and put things away. It is a major undertaking and I am completely overwhelmed. So say a little prayer that I will be back close to normal when Christmas rolls around!!!

Well....I am off to dust ville!

Sock It To Me Twice

I just signed up for this swap Sock It To Me Twice . Miss Me had it on her blog and she always has fun and interesting things there...so I took the leap and signed up. I am so excited. I love socks and love to knit them! Go and check it out.

I start my next class tonight and I will be so busy for the next 8 weeks. But it will be one more class down to complete my degree. The end is so close and before I know it I will be walking down that graduation isle and I will be so happy. I have reached the "I am so tired of this stage" and I am so ready to move on to other things. Mainly just have adult fun and relaxation!

Thank goodness for my portable knitting that I can take and relax even for just a moment. I am so greatful for that. I am a quilter and I miss my bigger projects...but I have put them on the back burner since I have been in school....just not enough time.

Well...better get things ready for tonights class and take advantage of being off today.

I am still sick...but better!

I broke down and went to the doctor today. I coughed all yesterday and lost my voice. I knew I wasn't going to shake this until I got some meds. to help it. Well one dose of my medicine and a 3 hour nap....I feel so much better!

I am in Ravelry! I love it .....I just need about a day to search and search! Thank you to my best ever Secret Pal for my invite!

Well..I think we finally have our fall. It turned cold last night and was rather chilly today. With all this hot weather we have been having and no rain, the pollen count has been thru the roof, thus my allergy problem.

I have just about 15 more rows to finish on my Monkey Socks for my secret pal and out they will go. I got behind when I got sick. I have some other projects to send out. I have gotten the packages ready and I will head to the post office on Sat. morning.

I will be going to FL again in Nov to visit my friends. We had such a good time when I was down in Aug that we decided life was too short not to get together again....so here I go! Think I can knit them each a pair of socks by then.....I plan to...Monkeys at that because I believe I can do them in my sleep now! And they are an easy knit on the train! Oh goodness knows I have enough of stash yarn! I got them each a handmade tote bag and I thought socks inside would be fun!

Well, time for bed .....more later.

My weekend was interesting....

First of all let me say that last Thursday I came home feeling terrible....I have a bad cold mixed with my allergies and all I wanted to do was sleep. Well...Sat. I had a nail appointment...I met a friend for breakfast or rather brunch and then had my nails done and went home and went to bed...by Sun. night I still felt terrible. Well ..Monday the holiday I managed to knit a very little bit ...I didn't even feel like concentrating...
Remember that date I was to go on.....well we met on Tuesday and I figured he will like me sick or not sick...I put on my best face and smile and met him for coffee (we had soft drinks..I am a very cheap date when I am sick...! LOL) and we hit it off....he was so much fun to talk with and wants to see me again...I just hope I feel better the next time...I got a great hug though!

To my Secret Pal 11...Thank you for the invite to look at Ravelry....my intentions tonight or tomorrow night. You know I am sick when I didn't even feel like surfing the web either.

Say a little prayer that my allergies subside and the pollen goes away (if we ever have rain!)

I am getting Closer!!!!!

Just checked and I am getting very close to getting on Ravelry! Here is my count today!

You signed up on August 18, 2007
You are #26702 on the list.
4128 people are ahead of you in line.
12534 people are behind you in line.
57% of the list has been invited so far

I keep ready about everyone else getting their invites...and I am getting jealous! Not really just anxious.

Today though is a really down day for me. I am getting a cold and mixed with my allergies, I feel just plain yucky...now you know Murphy's law has stepped in because this weekend I am suppose to have a date with a new gentleman and we are meeting for the first time. We have talked on the phone but now I get sick...I am hoping by Friday I feel better. I am eating chicken soup and drinking as much liquid I can to flush this thing out! Wish me luck, he sounds like such a good person. Will keep all posted. This is so tough dating at this age. We all have so many habits and it's hard to bend or change some of them...I have been alone for 15 years and I am finding it hard to change.....but I am so willing to try.....by change I mean having someone else share the bathroom and the other things that go along with being a couple. Now do you think I have put the cart before the house? LOL I have enjoyed talking on the phone with this gentleman I am hoping things progress.....Okay now I am acting like a teen...LOL

I have almost finished my monkey socks for my secret pal...I have the toe to finish on the last sock and then block them. I have knit the majority on the train coming and going to work. They have been so much fun...

Will fill everyone in on my date later......

Yeah...My Monkey Sock Swap 3 Package Arrived

I had to work yesterday.....we awarded the last of 2007 Contracts and I wearily came home and to my surprise....Look what I found under my carport! My Monkey Sock Swap 3 Package from my Secret Pal! Wow....and look what I found inside of the package!

See the sweet little moneky and my wonderful socks! Not only did I receive these I got a monkey bookmark, a book cover, some calming tea, some candy and lipgloss. There also was the cutest monkey card, some monkey tissues, little monkey buttonand the yummiest pink yarn for new socks. My pal did such a wonderful job! And my package came all the way from Hawaii! This couldn't have arrived at a better time...I was so tired and weary from work and to come home to a very thoughtful and caring package with so many goodies....well...I could just feel the love that come out from the package. The socks are more beautiful than poor picture taking skills show. They fit so nicely and I cant' wait to wear them.....they are so cozy! Thank you Monkey Swap Secret Pal! Thank you bunches! P.S. Please send me your blog!

Now I just need to finish my pal's socks and get them in the mail next week. I have all her monkey items and then I will get them in the mail.

Monkey Socks Almost Done!

These are the Monkey Socks I am knitting for my swap partner. I have to say all of the socks posted on the Monkey Sock blog site are wonderful. If you get the chance browse the site. Cute....cute ...way too cute!

I have only been able to knit on the train. My nights right now are working late and when I get home it's studying. Two more weeks and then life will be a little better.

Well..I have to put the clothes in the dryer and head to bed....

Keep those needle clicking!

Ravelry wait list

This is were I am in the Ravelry count. The other day 13902 were ahead of me....so there is hope still! Yeah!

You signed up on August 18, 2007
You are #26702 on the list.
12740 people are ahead of you in line.
6980 people are behind you in line.
40% of the list has been invited so far

It's Almost October!

Never thought I would wish my life away for a period of time. But the month of September has become such a miserable month! My chosen profession is what makes it hard....it is so busy because of the end of the fiscal year for the Federal Government...but I shouldn't complain...at least I have a job. On to better things in this post!

My daughter's birthday is this coming Sunday...I have some nice things for her but she reads my blog, so I will have to wait to talk about them!

I have almost finished my Monkey Swap partners socks. I posted them on the Monkey Swap sight...I don't know why I forgot to post them on my sight. I will later. I am at work and can't access my files. I do have some very cute items for my monkey pal...who would believe I could find to many cute things. I have had so much fun getting things for her.

My Secret Pal 11...I have been gather things for her....now she is a little tougher to buy for and I must say I have had to put my thinking cap on for her. She is vegan and of course does not eat meat ....so this extends in to edible treats and yarn. I did find some very yummy cotton yarn that looks very sophisticated...I hope she will like my choice. I think I might make some other things for her and try to find really unusual items for her. I must say, participating in these swaps has me searching the inter net and little shops around town......it has become such an adventure!

Well lunch time is over and I need to get back to work......I will try tonight or at least sometime this week to post some pictures.....I keep promising and I keep forgetting......getting older has it's advantages and then it doesn't

Side note...I still have to get out my felted bag for my swap partner....I have disappointed her immensely and I feel really bad. I have it almost finished.....I can't take my sewing machine on the train and sew....so this project fell by the way side.....I promise Mindy if you read this I am going to get it to you very soon....if you are upset with me....you have every right to be....but my life has been so hectic.

Take care to all and keep those needles clicking.

It's Sunday Morning and I am at work.....Boo!

It is Sunday morning and guess where I am? At work! It is that time of the year when I earn my overtime or comp time. Government end of the fiscal year consumes those of us in the procurement field. But this too will pass with the coming of Sept. 30th! And then it is on to other issues. LOL

I have finished one of the monkey socks for my swap partner. I have the other to finish hopefully this weeks. I have knit about 95 % on the train going and coming for work. So this little pair of socks has traveled before they are sent! I have truely enjoyed knitting them and plan to knit some others from the pattern. It is a fun and quick pattern to do.

I have been gathering all types of goodies for my swap partner for SP11 and my monkey sock swap partner. I have a mitten swap I am doing also but we haven't been assigned our partners yet.

I need to get busy and post pictures. I don't know why this is always the last on my list...Maybe sometime this week....

Until then...keep those needles clicking and have a great week!

My Last Long Weekend till October!

Well...I enjoyed my last long weekend until the end of September. Since I work for the Federal Government and it is the end of the fiscal year, I will have to work weekends to get all of our contracts and procurement awarded by September 30th! UGH...but it is my chosen field of employment!

On a much brighter note....I recieved my first package from my SP11...I was so excited! I will post a picture tonight and explain what I got in my package.....I must say she is a very cool pal! She read my blog and has taken note on my likes and needs! Thank you Secret Pal! You are the best.

In the mean time I also have signed up for 2 more swaps and I am working on those also. Will explain more tonight. I am at work and should be actualy working, but I managed to get here really early for me and now I am trying to get in my morning coffee and function at such an early time. I am truely trying to improve myself and this is one of my biggest faults...dragging myself in so late I have to stay late and then working becomes this exhausting circle...so Tuesday morning start right week!!!!! Later...........

I was tagged twice in May~

I have been tagged twice by the same tag...two different people...but I am going to be a really good sport and list 14 things about myself! LOL I am trying to catch up on so many things and I can't really understand how the months of June, July and almost August have disappeared! Swap partners...I hope this will help you know who I am!

1. I travel 100 miles round trip to work which is in Washington, DC capital of the United States.
I love my job and find it stressing and rewarding at the same time. The commute I try to enjoy the best I can and to use the time wisely....I either sleep, knit or read.

2. I love kitties but have decided that I no longer want the responsibility of a cat after mine died several years ago. I am gone too much and can't devote the time to a little furry friend.

3. I love pampering myself! I go one a month for a massage, manicure and pedicure. I love red polish and this is what I pick for my toes! Recently though I have changed to pink...I love OPI polish and I am using Susie sells Sushi down by the seashore....try saying that fast five times!

4. I love history and love to learn the unusual tidbits of history that usually is never told.

5. I to go to little boutiques and small shops where people are friendly and fun to talk with.

6. My previous job I ordered guns and ammo for all law enforcement officers in the Federal agency I work for. This always is a surprise to my friends.

7. My favorite holiday is Christmas....I love the spirit and true meaning of Christmas and family time. I also love to give gifts. I love to listen all year to my family and friends and then get them things they have talked about or have meaning for them. Now for the selfish part....4 days after Christmas is my birthday and I enjoy getting together with friends and celebrate.

8. I am very shy, but work very hard at not giving anyone that impression of me.

9. If I could, I would never wear shoes in my life again. I would rather just wear socks or go barefooted.

10. I love to eat breakfast more than any other meal. I could eat it anytime during the day and be happy.

11. I love to come home at night from work and snuggle in my favorite chair and unwind. Perfect would be to have a Mr. Right in my life to do this with but I know the good Lord will take care of this in time....or not.

12. I love fresh flowers and would have them in my house everyday if I could afford them. (I am not so good at growing them.)

13. I love teddy bears. I use to collect them, but not much anymore. I still love the antique looking bears and items that are related.

14. Last but not least, I am a quilter plus I love to knit. I think I could quilt and knit the rest of my life and be content. I right now, collect as much fabric as I do yarn. I love to touch it and oh my I know you all do it too.....smell the yarn! I just wish I could make a living at both and not work my regular job.....but until I retire ...well I just won't torture myself.

Hope you have enjoyed my little extra info about me.

Monkey Sock Swap THREE Questionnaire

Monkey Sock Swap THREE Questionnaire

The basics:

Do you consider yourself a beginning sock knitter, an intermediate, or have you been doing this so long you could probably knit a pair in your sleep? I consider myself an Advanced Intermediate knitter. I have been knitting for a very long time but new to sock knitting with newer fibers.

The measurements: Shoe Size: 10 US
Foot circumference: 9 ½ inches
Foot length: 9 ½ inches

Yarn Preferences:

What colors do you love? I love all colors. My favor colors are purple, blue, and pink.

Do you prefer solids or variegated? It really doesn’t matter to me. I love both.

Do you prefer wool, cotton or acrylic yarn? I like only natural fibers. Cotton or wool…either one is fine with me. I don’t like acrylics.

What colors would you never wear? Orange…not my favorite color.

What are your favorite brands of yarn? I like just about any brand name that is soft to the touch. My feet are rather sensitive and I like the feeling of soft socks.

Are there any new brands you would like to try? I am sure there are many out there I haven’t heard about. I am game for any!

Cookie A. Patterns:

Which of her patterns have you already knit? Her Monkey sock pattern that was free on Knitty. I loved knitting that one.

Which pattern(s) would you like to knit and don’t already own? Any of her patterns would be fine, because I do not have any of her patterns yet.

Other pertinent information:

Would you be willing to have an international Monkey Pal or do you prefer one in the US? I wouldn’t mind having an international Pal. It would be fun.

Do you have any allergies? Yes, trees, grasses, smoke, and other outdoor things. Nothing to do with food or fibers.

Will your knitting be exposed to smoke or animals? No

Are you on Ravelry yet? If you don’t mind having new friends, what is your Ravelry name? No not yet…have heard about the sight but have not checked it out yet.

Secret Pal 11 Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love natural fibers. I don't really like acrylics. I have been looking at solids lately because I love the lacy socks. I also have been looking at some lace patterns for shawls. I love cotton yarn for socks too!
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have a painted crock for some and baskets. I, unfortunately, seem to start so many projects I have them pretty much in the yarn most of the time.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned to knit when my daughter was an infant...so that was 34 years ago. I knitted on and off for many years, but my obsession started last year for my sock knitting. I would consider myself an advanced intermediate knitter.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have a list but I have purchased most of the books on the list. But I don't have any type of knitting magazine subscription so I am open to any magazines.
5. What's your favorite scent?
I love floral scents, along with citrus smells and lavendar. In love the smell of roses. I don't like heavy scents, mainly because they give me really bad headaches.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Oh my yes....I love dark chocolate....but I have never turned down a good piece of chocolate.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I am a quilter so I covet fabric like I do yarn. I don't spin yet.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I love all types of music. I especially like music from the 60's. My compter will play MP3s.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love all colors. My least favorite colors are browns unless mixed with brighter shades of any other colors.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I live alone and alas.......no pets.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear the first three but not ponchos.....I hated them in the 60's too.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Socks, scarves, and afghans. But I will try anything once.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Socks, socks, socks!! Oh ...and a sweater, some dishcloths and faces clothes.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
But of course....who wouldn't! They are made with love and care and who wouldn't want that!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like them all....I love my Denise needles....my Brittnays, my Addis but I haven't knit with plastic in years.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I have both...treated myself and my daughter several months ago with a set for each of us!
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Twenty years old....and I have no intention of ever finishing it....sweater for a friend and I never bought enough yarn....glad I never told her about it.
18. What is your favorite holiday?
I love all of the holidays...but I especially love Christmas because my Birthday is 4 days later...so I get more presents....okay...I really just like to go to dinner with friends for my birthday.
19. Is there anything that you collect?
I love sewing gadgets of any kind and pin cushions. I like both antique and new. And tote bags...both big and little.
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I don't subscribe to any knitting magazines. I love Woolgirl yarns, any sock yarn, Debbie Bliss yarn ( I love her silk yarn), Brittney sock needles. I am really not picky...I love to try new things.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I am still wanting to learn to knit with the magic needle techique.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I wear a size 10 shoe. My foot measures 9 1/2 in length and 9 1/2 inches around the foot.
23. When is your birthday?
December 29th
24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
Unfortunately no....I just heard about it and I haven't put my name on the list...something in my to do list.

Whoops...I can't believe I have been a slacker again!

I can't believe I let time slip by once again....I need to really update my blog! I just returned from Florida after a week with friends and I am so rested. I came back to the rat race and I already feel like I need another vacation. I can't believe how DC can make me such a frustrated person...well really it is my office for me right now....but I came back to find out I no longer have the supervisor I had and ...well...yippeeeeee!!!!!

Okay now that I found this out....I can really have a good attitude adjustment! I promise I will post this week things and pictures and stories and such..... I am alive, kicking and ready for new adventures.

I have signed up for SP11 and I need to post my info questions......so until later this week....hope all is well with everyone and I will join in soon with the needle clicking and new projects will abound!

OH MY!!!!!

Oh my goodness...I can't believe it has been almost a month since I posted! I need to get pictures on the site!

Anyway my class that just about did me in finished last night! My group gave a presentation and we did very well. Hope that I did as well as the entire group! Anyway....it is done ...complete....I have breathing room and this weekend is party time! I am going to relax, catch up with my blogging, my house, my knitting, and my life in general! I feel human again. I only wish this really was my last class....but alas I have about 5 more to go....but I will finish this degree..hopefully this May.

I have planned a trip to Florida for the first week in August. I am very excited. Two good friends from High School live in Jacksonville and I am going for a week to meet with them and we are going to have fun! We are planning all sorts of things to do. But during the week when they are at work....I am going to venture out on my own. I am going to shop, relax on the beach and cruze for guys! Thought that would get everyones attention. Really I am going to let loose and really enjoy my life. I have needed this vacation for so long and it will be great to get away from home and work.

When I get home this evening I am going to try and post pictures of the wonderful swap things I have gotten and enjoy a very good dinner without the worry about homework!
Later .....

Whew ...it is finally the weekend

I am so glad it is the weekend! I at least can relax even though I have homework to complete plus a midterm to do. But I am in the bunny slippers (not really) but I am relaxed and ready to sit back quietly and accomplish what I need to.

On Thursday I came home to a wonderful package from one of my swaps ....not sure which one but once I charge my camera up I will take pictures. It was so wonderful...a book "The Knitter's Gift", a great felted mitten pattern, four skeins of felting yarn, beautiful stitch markers, the cutest snowman from a wooden spoon, and fabric fat quarters!

Then on Friday I received a wonderful package from my Secret Pal 10. A really nice skein of Paton yarn, a yummy candle that smells so good, a needle gauge, my favorite candy (Rocher) and the sweetest little card. I can't wait till she reveals herself. SP 10 has been fun!

Again,.....gotta charge the camera up and once I do I will take pictures. I let it run down...gee you think I was busy and had no time...LOL ! I am lucky to remember to keep my cell phone charged.

I better get to the homework and try to complete it so I can have a day of rest tomorrow. I will knit tomorrow...has been way too long...I think it will bring me back to a center of calmness I need right now. I hear all those knitting needles clicking and they are calling my name!

Burning the Candle at Both Ends is not good or wise!

Well once again my over acheiver alter ego has surfaced! I found out if I work really hard I can earn my Bachelor degree next May instead of 2 years from now. But I have to just about kill myself do this. Okay ...not really kill myself, but make a lot of sacrifices and plan the heck out of my life. Not one of my strong points since the creative side emerges whenever it feels like it. The new man in my life is not really on hold but he wants to take it slow and right now that is fine with me. Okay not really but I will worry about men issues later. I too old for my wants to hurt me....and just young enought to care....

The class I am taking at the moment is so intensive. It is a fourteen week class crammed into 7 weeks. It is just about to take me down.....but I will make it through.

I have been so busy that I have even knitted in about a week. This has frustrated me but I also have had to work late at work all week. Exhaustion has been my middle name. Why does it seem like everything hits the fan at once?

I did recently order some beautiful yarn to knit some washclothes and soap bags for Christmas presents. The pattern is so beautiful....it looks like a Victorian set. I got the pattern and yarn from Patternworks. Will have to take pictures and post some of my WIP and some of my other stuff.....today is my thought gathering day and I will be getting organized! Wish me luck!

I am Calm Now...Men are really okay...

Thanks to all who were so kind. I emotionally wrote my blog the other day....not good. I will not give up on this one. We started out as good friends and this can not change. Good friends are hard to find. But I truly believe this one will eventually be more than that....It's in Gods hand and if he feels it is right it will work out.

At least I wasn't non productive from my emotions...I cleared and cleaned a lot of my past life clutter. There were so many closets and stuff in my house from my ex husband that I needed to clean out. And I have! Amazing how much you can throw away when you are on a mission. Thank goodness for being a older wise women...you can snap right back into your thought pattern of " I am women, hear me roar....I am independent and I can go and do what I want..!!!!" Now let me tell you all a little secret.....my sweetie is 10 years younger than me...maybe I was more women than he anticipated...but continuing to being good friends is very important to me....I can handle this and I will.....I am too much of a good person which he readily admits to....he is really a good one....can you imagine a man with a good moral compass...one who values friendship even though he wants more.....we work more closely than I let on in my earlier post. We work in the same office, same department, and same team.....But we came over from the other component to headquarters the same day and we worked at the other area for 2 years.....how do you spell destiny......I am not giving up.

I took a class on Sat. to improve my intarsia technique a little better. Great class...only two of us in there so we really got a lot of hands on help. I will post pictures later....I have to do homework now. My summer class for my degree is "Financial and Managerial Accounting" ...how load can we all say YUCK! Only 6 more weeks to go....and I will be one more class ahead.

This driven women is going to call a friend for dinner and relax her tired self.

How do you spell broken hearted?

Well...what I thought was a budding realtionship turned out to be not one at all. "He" decided that a work relationship was not working and would be better that we stay friends. I am so crushed. I don't know if I will ever trust a man again. Right when I thought doors were opening they have been slammed in my face....again. I have cried my last tear over a man...I am done. Don't feel sorry for me...I know that I am a pretty terrific person and I know that God loves me and I guess there is a reason for this.
I will have several good cries and move on. A sad day. Trust is a very hard thing to give and when it is broken...well....it just hard.

The Weekend ...thank goodness!

This has been the week that takes a good women to her last nerve! If it wasn't for my new sweetie....I think I would have just lost it!

I tired to get a hair appointment 3 times and with me not being able to make it or my hairdresser not being able to keep the appointment I finally gave up and made it with her partner. I teased Tammy, my hairdresser, telling her that her new found happiness in marriage is making it hard for us. She has changed her schedule and it is not good for the rest of us loyal customers....LOL....we will adapt! We are happy for her. Anyway....I also had to cancel my other vice for pampering ....my monthly manicure and pedicure...I have to work on my day off so I had to reschedule my pampering day....oh well......another day will be okay.

But my new sweetie told me I was still pretty....he is a real keeper! Can't go into too much detail ....we are in the early stages of our relationship and hopefully it progresses......we have know each other for 3 years....and this just started to get to be a little more than just friends.....oh yeah! BIG OLD SMILE FOR ME! Enough gushing for now.....will gush more later.

I just received my order from Blue Moon Fiber Arts..Socks that Rock....colors, Lunasea, Little Bunny Foo Foo and Love in Idelness....they are beautiful.....I have other projects to finish and then I am going to dig in! They are yummy, yummy, yummy!!!

Well...off to bed to dream about my sweetie ....hmmmm.

Secret Pal 10 Contest #5 - My Favorite Knitting Spot

My hostess from Secret Pal 10 has a new contest! I am to describe my fav. way to knit. So here it goes...............

My favorite place to knit is in my recliner. I snuggle down in the chair and put my bag on the side and knit my little heart out. I like to have a good cup of hot coffee on the table beside me sometimes and I ususally have the TV on to a favorite show which could be any HGTV show or a "who done it show". Sometimes I recline back some and knit very relaxed.....but this can be deadly....because I usually fall asleep and this is not productive! Oh I want to start to knit.....so I think I will endulge myself and knit for awhile....
Keep those needles clicking!

I am Greatful!

I was off from work yesterday and not feeling well so I just watched TV and knitted. I was watching a show about the generosity of people in disasters and I started thinking how grateful I am to be who I am and what I have. In the last 14 years of my life I have accomplished so much and have done a lot with my life....even though some may look at it as it has been a very small accomplishment....But I think it is huge. A few facts about me in the last 14 years.

1. I was a stay at home PTA mom when my husband decided to leave me and move on to what he said was his view of happiness and it didn't include me. We had been married 23 years by then. I had never worked so I was scared and frightened.

2. After a number of extremely poor years and worrying to the point I thought I would loose my mind, I decided to go back to college. It took me awhile, because I wanted to get my daughter through. In the meantime I worked very small odd jobs to make ends meet and prayed a lot that I would not loose the house or my mind!

3. At the age of 46 I entered community college and received my Associate Degree in Business 4 years later. I graduated with honors and I knew then the world was at my feet.

4. I had the opportunity to start working in the Federal Government and that lead to an internship. I have moved up rapidly in my job (both financially and career wise and today I am comfortable and able to support myself and do the things I have wanted to do.

5. I enter college again to earn my Bachelor of Professional Studies majoring in Leadership and Management. I have maintain a 3.5 GPA throughout my college days and I will graduate a year from now.

There are times where I get very lonely and frustrated with the opposite sex, as proven in my rant a week ago.....but I am proof positive that you can do anything you want to do and do it well.

I am so grateful for my life, my family, my daughter, my grandson and my son-in-law. I am in fairly decent health and I have good friends I can call on. Above all of this I have the love of GOD and without him I nor would anyone else have the blessings we have today.

My point to all of this is to stop when you are angry, count your blessings and see just how rich you are. Riches aren't always counted as money....they are the gifts we give others and how we receive gifts back. Look at all the talent when we read each others blogs! Wow....I find it amazing and overwhelming at times.

We all have so much to share and to be grateful for and I wanted to just express it today. May God Bless you and may you go forth and rejoice for what you have and what you can share. All of have gifts, whether they are sewing, knitting, cooking, or just being a good friend. Dig deep and figure out what your gift is and freely give it. You will find your gift will come back to you many times over.

With all my sincere sisterly love,
Iva

A Lazy Weekend!

I can't believe I left my rant up so long. I intended to post this week end but.....I was just out of it. Thanks for the positive feedback Kaki! It's great when you have new friends that post nice things.

After working so hard for my great grade for my class....I have become the all time slug! I have been so tired. But this is the allergy season and it seems worse than ever. I start back to school May 21st and I am not really looking forward to it. But it will be one more class down and the light at the end of the tunnel for graduation has finally shown brightly! I went to my counselor and found out that I can graduate next May if I really put my nose to the grindstone....and you better believe I am. I love attending classes but I am so tired of doing homework. But the rewards for all my hard work over the years has been worth it!

I still haven't talked about my class with Melissa Leapman. My daughter and I had such a good time. We learned several different types of edgings and I can see using them on socks purses and of course sweaters. I was so enthralled with learning that I forgot to take pictures at the class.....can you believe that. Both my daughter and myself had our cameras and we forgot to take pictures. I will take some of my samples and post later. However, we did get our books autographed by her. At least part of the old noodle was working.

Today being Monday is even harder to get motivated but I really need to get into the swing of work. I really should have come in on Sat. to work...but like the little child I can be..."I didn't want to!".

I did get to see a friend from high school who was in town from FL. We got to visit for a few hours....it was nice and I hope she is able to come back up and we can get together again....maybe I will make the trip down there. I need to start planning a few trips......need to find more yarn shops! LOL

My daughter is visiting a friend in CA and I called her last night. She found some really neat yarn shops and she said she is bringing me home some treats. I can't wait. I have the best daughter in the world!

Well better actually earn my living.....until the next post....keep those knitting needles clicking and new yarn shops on the horizon.

A little Irritation Please!

Well...yesterday was an all time aggrivating day. I dropped my car off at the dealers (first big mistake there) to have the oil changed, tires rotated and State Inspection. Now mind you my car is only 3 years old. No problems noted and none that I could see, feel or hear. Well....they called me to let me know that my breaks needed to be replaced. I only had 48 thousand miles on it. When I arrived my bill was almost 2 car payments. I hit the roof. I managed to get them to remove some charges that they couldn't seem to explain, but now you know where my tax refund it going. I was planning on buying some new yarn....maybe take a little extended weekend trip or what ever.....but no this has to go for something that I know I was totally ripped off. I know this is because I am a women and they saw me coming.....well....no more....I told them I would not ever return nor would I recommend them. I hope I gave them a bad evening....I wasn't ugly...just firm.

And my other rant.....I have been separated and divorced for 14 years. I have put my nose to the grindstone and put my daughter through school, myself through (I am actually going now and almost finished) gotten a very good job and taken care of myself very well. I have no issues or at least very few...fun to be with, a good cook, a hard worker, pretty decent to look at ....so what's the problem.....MEN...what the heck do they want. I have not dated much and at my age it's hard to find them alive and kicking (LOL). I subscribed to EHarmony and I have had a lot of matches, but the men don't communicate.....they close me before we can even get to know each other......usually its the checked box..."I don't believe there is any chemistry"....How the heck can they tell?????? By a few questions?????? To have chemistry folks you have to get to know someone....my big issue with myself is my weight and I belive MEN are looking for one thing....a roll in the hay and they can profess being a Christian all they want but I know they have one thing on their mind and if a women doesn't look like Barbie or act like they haven't a brain in their head....well some of us are just left out. I know that a lot of you have wonderful husbands, but you are lucky.....some of us are not. I would give anything to have a wonderful partner in my life to share things with......but I guess right now it is not on the horizon for me....in the meantime I will wish, hope and pray that God will give me a good man before I get so old I won't know what to do with him! LOL....Rant over.

Will post more tonight when I get home.....have to tell all about my knitting class with Melissa Leapman....fun, fun , fun......

Wow! Two packages this Week!

I received two packages this week from the two swaps I am in....Knitters Treat Swap and Secret Pal 10....and oh how they spoiled me! I received from my Secret Pal 10 a skein of STEP sock yarn( I love this yarn and I love the color!), some knitters ointment for my hands,(and I really need this!) a package of wool wash and knitters pins (can have enough of these). See the pictures below. Thank you SP10! Can't wait to for you to revel yourself!

Secret Pal 10

And my next wonderful package is from my Knitters Treat Pal! Thank you Kati! You were super with this. I received green tea (yum), a cable holder, the cutest stitch holders that look like mini donuts which are better on stitch holders than on my hips!, a handmade card, the prettiest shawl holder which was attached to my (Yippees) Jitterbug yarn! Yummy, yummy!

Knitters Treat Pal

Thank you so much to both of my secret pals! Yummy...yummy..yummy......

Spring Felted Bag Swap Questionnaire

I joined yet another swap....I think I am rather addicted to giving! This is the Spring Felted Bag Swap. I am learning to swap now. My daughter StephanieCake has done a lot of felting and she has been helping me. I have my first one on the needles and I hope to finish it soon! I carry a felted purple one she made me for Christmas. So here are my answers for the questionnaire.....

1.How long have you been knitting or crocheting? How did you learn? I learned to crotchet about 35 years ago. My mother taught me and I self taught for knitting about 33 years ago.

2. What are your favorite yarns to knit\crochet felted bags with? I have just tried Patons yarn so far.

3. What are your favorite needles to knit\crochet with? I don’t crotchet much anymore, but for knitting I love wooden knitting needles. Crystal palace, Brittnay, and Denise needles are what I use mostly. Addis are also my fav metal needles.

4. What are the last 3 bags you knitted\crocheted (include URL for Yahoo! or flickr album or your blog if you have them!)? You can also link to patterns if you don't have pictures of your finished objects! I am knitting my first one now. My daughter has knitted many and she has given me some patterns.

5. Do you carry the bags that you make, give them as gifts, or both? I plan to do both. I carry one now that my daughter knit for me. I just love it.

6. What is your favorite felted bag that you have made for yourself? I have not found a pattern yet. Still looking. I want to try a bag with beads.

7. What are your favorite colors? Do you like bags in these colors or choose other colors? I love purple, blue or pink. I also like green.

8. Chocolate: White, Milk, Dark, or not so much? Dark most definitely!

9. Coffee, Tea, or Milk? Coffee (Milk with my chocolate.)

10. Do you prefer sweet or salty treats? What kinds? Both! For sweets, I love truffles or creams and salty things I love bagel chips or pita chips.

11. If you went into Bath and Body Works and could only come out with one item, what would it be and what would it smell like? Even though I think it is Yankee Candle, I love the smell of “Clean Cotton”. I also love the smell of Freesia or any clean flower smell.

12. Do you enjoy any other crafts or hobbies? Do you collect anything? I quilt. I collect fabric like I do yarn! I also collect teacups and snowmen.

13. Are there any bag patterns you have not yet knit, but hope to someday? I am still looking at all the wonderful patterns. They are all looking good to me. Though I have to say totes are my favorite.

14. What is currently OTN (on the needles) for you? Wow..... I have several socks, a shawl, a bag and a sweater OTN. I need to finish them and not start something new! Yeah like that is going to happen. I did just finish a scarf.

15. What is your most recent finished object before that? A lace scarf. Very simple but a lot of fun.

16. What's cutest: Puppies, Piggies or Pixies? Puppies of course.

17. Do you enjoy reading? Books, Magazines, or both? I love both. I love anything about history. And this includes history on knitting, quilting, tools for both or history of an area.

18. Do you have any children? (kid-kind or pet-kind apply!) I have a daughter, but she is married and I have one grandchild (the sweetest little guy!). I love cats, but alas my Fluffy died a number of years ago and my lifestyle right now does not allow for a pet.

19. What are some of your favorite yarns for other projects? I love sock yarn of any kind, but I do prefer natural fibers. I love the feel of silk and some cottons are great too. I do not like scratchy fibers; they make me itch.

20. And for the final question, one I see debated all over: Novelty Yarn: Love it! Hate it! or It depends! It depends on what it is for. I have a pattern for a little Santa and it uses novelty yarn for his beard and it is total okay.

21. Is your home smoke free? Yes…I have trouble breathing around smoke, and if it is in fibers, it bothers me too.

22. Is your home pet free? Yes

23. Are you allergic to pet hair, smoke, or both? Smoke

I GOT AN "A" I am so Proud of myself!

Last night I felt a big weight lifted from my shoulders. I completed a great deal at work and I took my final exam at school for this course and I made an "A". This professor has us correct the papers in class since it is usually a multiple choice. I was really worried because I hadn't studied as much as I wanted to but I surprised myself. Knew more that I realized. Now I have about three weeks of relax time and then back to school for the summer session. I am knocking my classes out one at a time. Hopefully I will graduate within the next year or so.

One more day (today) and then I take the Melissa Leapman class....yeah! Will post more about the class and pictures this weekend.

I am a much more relaxed lady now. I know I will be able to enjoy my weekend.

It's a good day in the Neighborhood!

It is Thursday and only one more day unitl the weekend...hooorayyyy! My class with Melissa Leapman is on Sat. and I can't wait. I have all my samples knit and I am ready. I will be able to relax and enjoy myself. I finish with part of my final tonight and the take home part by Monday. Then I get about 3 weeks of fun and then back to the grindstone. I enjoy going to class, but I am like a little kid with homework....I hate it! I don't have that many more classes to take so I will just hang in there until I can achieve my goal of my degree. Why I waited until I was in my 40's and 50's to start to school....well I do know.....it was called survival after the divorce.

Anyway...on another fun topic. I received a wonderful package from my SP10 pal.....I will post pictures later. It contained a wonderful skein of sock yarn, pins to hold pieces in place to put your garment together, yarn wash, and knitters ointment. I was so surprised. What a grand gift!

Thank you, Thank you to my SP10 partner.
Gotta run and study some more before tonight!

Knitters Coffee Swap Questionnare

Okay...here is my questionnare for my Knitter and Coffee swap!

QUESTIONS
1. Whole bean or ground? I love whole bean and then grind my own, but if it is too hard to find, ground is okay.
2. Fully-loaded or decaf? Fully Loaded....is there any other way?
3. Regular or flavored? Regular, sorta got tired of the flavors....need my hearty straight drink in the morning.
4. How do you drink your coffee? In a china mug....I love china cups ....okay whatever is clean....
5. Favorite coffee ever? Seattle's Best Breakfast Blend or Starbucks Breakfast blend...but I am game to try others.
6. Are you fussy about your coffee or will any old bean do? I am fussy. I like a good coffee, not a weak one...brand names seem to deliver.
7. Favorite treats to have with your coffee? I love any type of bread. Plain, pastry, or cookies....shortbread, biscuit, and any English biscuit.
8. Anything else about your coffee preferences? don't think so....
9. Yarn/fiber you love? I love natural fibers. They can have some blended fibers in sock yarn, but I prefer the natural ones.
10. Yarn/fiber you hate? Squeaky acrylic yarn.
11. What's on your needles? Cystal palace, Brittney, Addi, Denise....I have them all...I recently tried the Knitpicks equivalent to Addis and I love them.
12. Favorite colors? Blue, purple, green, red, pink....okay a lot....but I don't care for brown or orange. They just don't do anything for me.
13. Allergies? None that I know of.
14. Anything you really love, really don't like, or just need to get off your chest? I am not much of an issue person....I just really like to swap! I also love tote bags....little small or any kind of zippered bags. Bit of an obsession with me. I like gadgets too.

It's A Great Monday!

After having to work yesterday, I really had a hard time waking up. I thought...yuck...Monday!
Well...it turned out to be just fine so far! I heard from one of my swap partners, Miss Me, a gentleman I am corresponding with and knitters coffee swap with my new swap partner. I am going to shop, shop and shop this weekend to get packages in the mail. I am trying hard to finish some things I started yesterday at work, but I just can't seem to concentrate. Must be the sunshine....it makes me want to lay out in it and soak up as much as possible. I hope the day gets better and better. I am having dinner with my mom this evening before I head home. I was working on my Monkey socks and I made a mistake.....now I have to frog about 8 rows...oh well....I will have them done soon so I can post them.

Oh....almost forgot....Sat is my big knitting weekend with my daughter. We are taking Melissa Leapmans' class "knitting On the Edge"......yes I know this is a book by another author, but this is what her class is called....anyway.....daughter and I are so excited. I ordered two books for us to have her sign. Hopefully I can take pictures and post....

Knitters ....keep those needles clicking!

Sunshine...finally

The sun is shinning so brightly and it makes me so happy! I think our warmer weather is finally here. I realized a long time ago, I need sunlight to function. Unfortunately I work in a building that has no windows in my office area. Sometimes it is hard to concentrate....so it is so nice to have sunlight when I go home from work, now that we are on daylight savings time.

This is a complete change of subject, but I don't know how many have read much about the tragedy at Virginia Tech. My heart goes out to those students who died and those who had to endure those hours of uncertainty. I can honestly say I had an inkling how they felt. I was in Washington DC when 911 happened. The fear and worry you felt and the unknowing was a terrible feeling to have. Even now, when I hear of something unusual, you just wonder if it is happening all over. I, as I am sure, those students and their families have placed their trust in God and hope that with time all heals. Please keep Virginia Tech in your prayers.

I have to head to work today....boo....but it will help not stay late next week....so I will sacrifice.
I will stay with my mom who lives closer to my work. She and I will enjoy the evening and of course I have to take some knitting! I like to visit my mom and relax. She will treat me just like she did when I was younger. She will fix me breakfast and pack my lunch for work. I have the best mom!

Pitty Party Yesterday

I fell for the pitty monster yesterday. Tried so hard not to but it grabbed for me and caught me. I am totally swamped at work. Way too much to do and so little time. Needless to say my job falls into the political arena at times and this is extremely stressful. But I was able to see my daughter for a little while last night..we met for dinner and then she was off to her job where she has to stay overnight. It was on the way from my house so it was great being with her. I gave her a very early birthday present which she was so excited. I won on Ebay a swift and yarn winder and she was ecstatic. She had been using mine when she came down, which was fine, but as we all know....it so much better to have your own when the mood strikes.

Unfortunately I have to work this weekend, but I am going to stay with my mom so the commute is not so long and she is so good to me. She will treat me just like I was home again buy fixing me dinner and breakfast. She is so special. I just love being at her house. She treats all that arrive on her doorstep like they lived there. She works way too hard but she is the best mom ever! She is almost 82 and you wouldn't know it! She works rings around me. She still cuts her grass and keeps up with the house like she did when we were little. I just hope I have the energy she has when I reach her age!

Okay now I have put myself in a better mood. I will have to just plan and work through all this work at my job and complete my home duties and school stuff....oh my! Knitting on the train this evening will most definitely put me in a much grander mood!

Stash Pictures

Last week when I posted stash pictures and new buys I left out one of the pictures which documents most of the newest stash! I am so excited with these purchases. Some might become swap stash ...but I actually have patterns in mind. The colors did not turn out well. I still haven't figured out the resolution or tint or whatever you call it. I hate to admit this but I actually have some more stash that did not appear in the picture. One item I have on the needles and have almost completed. It is for my SP10. I love the colors...so I will post once I send it to her.

I have started a shawl for work. Work you say? Yes. I work in a very old building that we burn up in the winter and we freeze in the summer. The air conditioning just freezes us in my office area. I found a pattern that has pockets...I just love it. I will post a picture later this week.

Work is very stressful right now and I will probably have to put in overtime this weekend. I hope not, but it looks like I will so far......so knitting dreams are keeping me sane at the moment.

It's the Weekend for me - starting tonight!

In my job, I work 9 hour days so I can have every other Friday off. This is my Friday off and I am so glad! I am so looking forward to my pampering day and then Sunday with my family. It turned so cold here in Fredericksburg last night. You would think it was January and not April. I am so ready to shed the coat and just enjoy some spring weather. Not sure when that is going to happen since they are calling for snow flurries on Sunday. Just have to make the best of it.

I ordered some blue yarn from Knit Picks I hope is going to arrive today. I have wanted to knit a shawl with pockets and I finally found the pattern I want to use. So.....when I get it on the needles, I will post a picture.

I am working diligently to get my SP10's package together and in the mail on Friday.....I have some Easter goodies for her kids and of course her...and well...fortunately she only lives 50 miles away .....so it will be on time even mailing it on Friday...(I hope!)

Happy Easter to all!!!!

It's finally Wednesday!

This morning I woke to rain and the thoughts that I have just today and tomorrow, then my weekend starts. I am off on Friday and I have planned a "me day". Get my hair done and my monthly massage, hit my LYS and quilting shop and then spend the evening creating. Work has been tough this week and I am so ready for this weekend. And the best part is that it is Easter and I will be with all of my family....or at least some. They are calling for yucky weather though, but I am going to try to make the best of it. I am going to buy lots of chocolate Easter bunnies, marshmellow chicks, and chocolate East eggs to give to my grandson and my nieces and nephews and be the wonderful aunt and grandma that I hope I am....I just love to spoil the kids!

Happy Easter to all!
Keep those knitting needles clicking!

STASH Monster overcame me last weekend!

Last weekend my daughter and I did a little knitting shop hopping! As her mother, I showed absolutely no self control. I was like a little kid in a candy shop! Above are pictures of some of my stash and I have also posted some of my WIP and some finished dishrags. That evening after a wonderful dinner at a local Thai restuarant we came home and I order needles and a beautiful bead winder for some knitting with beads I am planning. This past week my living room looks as though Christmas came early. Not only did I buy but I ordered and I even ordered for my daughter. She got her birthday presents 6 months early....but she is not complaining! Ebay is a wonderful thing! It is now time for me to stop and get some of these projects done. I do have to fit work in though.....but then again I can knit on the train to work! Sleep will become a thing of the past. Or so I think....LOL

A Wonder Swap Package from my January Swap

All I can say right now is WOW! A number of weeks ago I swapped with a wonderful partner from Canada. We both missed the deadline for the TowndendSocksKnitAlong swap and the hostess was so kind and suggested we swap with each other. This has been such a wonderful swap and I now have a friend in Canada. My package took so long to get to her that I didn't post my package from her until she received hers. I was so excited with my package. She made it a Canadian theme. I got the cutest bag with knit terms embroidered on it, chocolates which only half is in the picture, the yummiest coffee, a book by the "Yarn Harlet", a Canadian ladies magazine, the most wonderful yarn made there, and the cutest beaded bag she knit. Oh...and patterns she printed from the internet. Because I get so excited with packages like a little kid....you will notice not all of the items are in the picture. I am reading the book, so it is in my bag for work which I read on the train and keep in the car and of course I ate some of the chocolate right away. The patterns are in my planning book to search for the perfect yarn! Thank you Katie!

My Favorite Knitting Tool

Secret Pal 10 has a contest! What is my favorite knitting tool. Could it be a storage bag? That is my favorite tool! I found it in California last August. It had little plastic storage pockets in the fold over pouch with zippers to close off each little pocket. I can store my markers, a small pair of scissors, a tape measure and vaious other little items. This can then be easily dropped into my tote of choice and I am ready to go. I really love it, love it, love it!!!!

My Weekend Wasn't Long Enough

But I did get some things done.....

Friday night I met with friends and we tried a Tai eatery in the large shopping area in the area. Food was excellent, but service was slow. They were busy with several large parties...ours included. It started sleeting and snowing and when we left....roads were okay but side areas a little slippery. By the next morning it was non existent but it put me in the mood not to leave the house or do a thing. I watched TV and movies all day long and I didn't really feel like knitting or sewing. I think I was just so tired from a rough work week that I needed the day to mentally wind down.
Sunday I visited my mom and my daughter and grandson came down from Maryland. We had a really nice time. Mom loves to fuss over all of us. For 81 she is a spry little lady! She gets more done than I ever thought about.

I didn't let Sat. go completely down the drain. I spent "thought" time as to my SP 10 swap partner. I have come great ideas and this weekend I am planning on shopping to start her surprise packages!!! I got my daughter involved in this and she has really made her partner some neat items already......
This weekend she and I are going exploring at some new shops we heard about (yes yarn shops) and well....let the creativity begin!

I hope to post pictures sometime this week....I have taken pictures of some of my projects and just haven't taken the time to post..NO EXCUSE!

I Heard From My Secret Pal 10...YEAH!

I am so excited! I heard from my SSP10 today and I can't wait to be spoiled! On the same note I can't wait to spoil mine. I contacted her today and do I have plans for her! Searching looking through her blog has been sooooooo much fun! It's like being Santa or the Easter Bunny.

I Have My Secret Pal 10 Swap Partner!!!!

I am so excited! I have my SP10 partner. I emailed her this morning and I am ready to spoil her. Wow...for the next three months I am going to have to remain anonymous and that is going to be tough. I have so many little surprises in my little head! Like visions of sugar plums dancing around....whoops wrong celebration!

Anyway.....exciting as it is, I will have to seriously buckle down and get my project done for school this weekend. Just finished my mid-term and my presentation in marketing class is the 22nd so serious business first....then FUN,FUN, FUN!!!!!!

Knitters Treat Exchange Questionnaire

I am participating in two swaps. Look to the right of my blog and you will see under March the links to each of them. I am very excited about both swaps. To both of my partners I thank you in advance for the anticipation of the fun we will have!

Knitters Treat Exchange Questionnaire

1. What's your favourite type of yarn?
I love natural fibers. I have in the past knit with others, but I guess I have become a knitting snob. Mixtures for socks are fine, but I really love the natural fibers the best.

2. What's your least favourite type of yarn?
The 100 percent acrylics. I have only used these for afghans which get a lot of use and usually thrown in the washer.

3. What's the first thing you do when you visit a new yarn shop?
I go to the colors that attract me. Then I go to the gadgets and then to the patterns. After that I go back to the yarn and I start to squeeze, smell and rub the bundles to me face. Sounds sick...but it is so soothing. Then I focus as to what I actually came in for and then I buy more than I actually needed!

4. What other crafts do you do / would like to do?
I am a quilter. I love fabrics and I act the same way in a fabric store as I do in a yarn store. I have a new Bernina and I just love to sew new things on it. I can't honestly say which is my favorite hobby...I indulge myself in both.

5. What magazines do you currently subscribe to?
Right now I only get Southern Living and Angels.

6. Put this type of magazine in order of preference:Knitting / Crochet / Other Craft / Food / Home / Fashion / Celebrity Gossip / Garden
Knitting/Home
Crochet/Other Craft/Food/ Garden
Fashion
Celebrity Gossip

7. What items do you like to knit / crochet?
I love to knit socks the best. I like to knit scarves and I plan on working on some lace items.

8. Are you allergic to anything?
Nothing in the food line....only things like trees, grass other things like that.

9. What do you like to smell of?
I love the smell of roses. Brings back very fond memories of my great aunt and uncles house which had loads of roses in their backyard. I also love the fragrance of Freesia or most light floral. Anything with a clean smell.

10. What's your favourite way to relax?
Putting me feel up and knit or sit at my sewing machine and work on a project. When I don't feel like those things, I just relax in front of the TV and watch a good movie or a program that interests me.

11. You're stood in front of a Victorian style sweetshop, an Italian cafe, an old fashioned bakery and a dainty tea room. Where do you go first?
I would go into the old fashioned bakery.

12. What do you come out with?
Yummy pastries, good hearty bread, and scones.

13. Where do you go next?
The tea room. I love tea in china cups and saucers, silver spoons and the atmosphere of a tea room. I love lemon tea and the whole ritual of pouring the tea and sipping it from the china cup. Sooooooo feminine!

14. Any other words of wisdom for your pal?
I am just very grateful for any gift I receive. The fact that someone went to the trouble to look for items to please me is a special gift in itself. I love surprises and I love creativity.

Secret Pal 10

I am so excited about this swap! I have waited so long to participate. My info is below for my pal. This is going to be so much fun!

Secret Pal 10 Answers

1.What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love knitting with natural fibers. The sock yarns with a little man-made fiber is fine, but acrylic is tough to knit with and I would prefer not to knit with it.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
Right now I have nothing. I usually put them in the package they came in or thrown in the bag of latest yarn! Bad…I know. I am working on a good storage place for my newest obsession. I recently bought a large tote for my yarns and whoops...not enough room. Need another tote.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I am self taught and that was about 33 years ago. I think I have reached the intermediate/advanced level by now.

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

5. What's your favorite scent?
Roses. It reminds me of my great aunts and uncles home. They had a rose trellis that I just loved to sit by and to this day the smell of roses brings back wonderful memories! I also love the smell of freesia which is what I buy at Bath and Body works.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I love good dark chocolate candy. I love butter or chocolate creams. Of course any type of candy I can’t turn down. I am not crazy about licorice or root beer candy....it is as the kids would say yucky.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I love to quilt. I am such a fabric-holic. I love any type of colors but I really love the soft Victorian country look. I have not learned to spin yet, but my daughter said she would teach me how with the drop spindle.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like all types of music. But the 60’s is my favorite. I love the old groups and Motown groups being some of my favorite. I love soft music and I am really liking some of the newer artists who play the easy listening music. I like country too. I guess you could say I am not really that picky. I don’t like rap or hard core stuff. Yes, my computer will play my MP3.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Blues, purples,some greens and pinks are my favorite colors. I don’t really care for oranges or browns. But if they are mixed with colors I like they are okay.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I live alone, divorced a number of years ago and my cat Fluffy died several years ago. My life is so hectic I just haven’t wanted to get another animal and not be home enough to enjoy them.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear scarves. I love scarves…all types. Hats….not so much…and I am not crazy about ponchos. I love mittens, just don't have any right now.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Right now I am knitting socks and some scarves. I have one sweater coat in progress. I am pretty enthusiastic about everything.

13. What are you knitting right now?
All of the above.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Yes, yes, and yes!

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

I love my circular needles and I also love beautiful knitting needles like the hardwood or bamboo ones you see now. I love the way hardwood or bamboo becomes smooth with use.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I have a yarn winder but I do not own a swift.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
An afghan I started several years ago. Just kept frogging because I didn’t like the pattern and it was acrylic yarn. Can't bring myself to start is again.

18. What is your favorite holiday?
Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, 4th of July (US)…..I guess all of them. I like celebrating each of the holidays at church or at work.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
I collect tote bags and snowmen! I also like any sewing gadgets. Whether it be antique or not, they fascinate me.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I would love to try the Tofusie yarn I have read about. I do not have any magazine subscriptions for knitting. I just keep buying books.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
The magic loop. I have watched a video on line and it baffles me….but I have promised myself I will try later on a pair of socks. I just bought a book on it so I will have to try it one day soon.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes….I love my socks! My foot is a size 10. The length of my foot is 9 3/4 inches and the circumference of the toe area is 9 3/4 inches.

23. When is your birthday?
I am one of those Christmas babies! I was born December 29th. Thus I either get the birthday Christmas present combination or I am forgotten all together…Boo hoo…really it isn’t that bad now, but I do like to treat myself on my birthday and I usually do.

It's Monday but it's really Tuesday!

These long weekends are killing me. They break my routine and I don't accomplish what I should. Bottom line I goof off because I think I have extra time. I thought I would post my pictures of my wonder swap partners gifts, but I still didn't.

Work was hard to go back to today and I really wanted to just crawl right back into bed. Better day tomorrow I hope!

The cold has subsided and we have warmer weather. Got up to 40 some degrees today. Yeah! Maybe it has melted all of the ice we had on Valentines day. Working in a building that dates back to the turn of the century and was once a warehouse, windows are not the easily accessible....so I don't know what it is like outside but in 10 minutes I will find out! I am headed home on the train!

ICE! ICE! ICE!********and COLD!

Tuesday it snowed and sleeted and the worst was yet to come. I woke up to about 1 and 1/2 inches of ICE! It was very beautiful but it kept me home for 2 days. Now you would think being home for two days a person would accomplish many things. Not me! I got so sleepy and all I wanted to do was to sleep and stay snuggled under my warm blanket and do nothing! I am now back at work and I have heaps of work to do. Now all I can think about is what I could be doing at home! Don't know if this is and "age" thing or just tired of the cold!

I had school last night and I did feel a little more accomplished when I got home. I hope this lasts and I get my "to do list" checked off some!

I have my sewing machine set up on the dining room table and I plan to sew tonight. I have some projects in the works and some ready to go. They are quick projects and I hope that my motivation mojo stays in place!

I know to most, the temperature being in the teens is not much, but us poor Virginians......ya'llllll...this is way to cold for us Southern ladies and gents!

I plan to post pictures this weekend. We have a long weekend....it is a holiday for us and the government has graciously given us off Monday so I can have three days to sleep......whooooooops....no.....accomplish many things!

Keep stitching!

It's Cold!!!!

I know that most people might not understand that when I say it is cold here in good ol' Virginia but it is cold for us Southerners! It has been in the teens for over a week and we did have a dry snow on Tuesday night. For those who suffer with "arther" it is tough. We were spoiled with warm weather for too long this winter. I just wish I had knit faster on my socks, scarves and mittens. They are all in the almost done phase!

I am so excited about a swap that I have participated in. Acutally myself and a very lovely lady from Canada (Katie B) have decided to swap. I am sending her package on Sat. and I received a notice that my package has arrived from her and is at the post office. I am picking it up on Sat. I can't wait. We both missed the sign up day by 24 hours...so we have created our own. I also made it in to Secret Pal 10 and I am very excited about that also. I just love creating things and going to the shops for secret presents and looking for the unusual. It's like being Santa longer than just Christmas time.

I was hoping to have some pictures taken and posted but I just haven't had the time. I am back in school and the reading alone keeps me away from what I love to do....but there will be an end to the student days soon....just haven't figured out exactly when.

But I do slip in some knitting at night and on the train to work if I don't have too much homework to concentrate on! I have a 3 day weekend coming up....yeah....knitting and sewing! I will live for tomorrow! That's when my 3 day weekend starts and I have my happy plans.

I have the Best Daughter Ever!

Coffee Cozy

For Christmas my daughter surprised me with the best handmade items. This is a coffe cozy to help my sensitive knitting hands from hot coffee. This is for when I don't have time to brew my own coffee. I simply slip this on my purchased coffee and it has the homey feel. It has a tiny coffee cup and saucer on the ribbon! I keep it on my desk at work or in my tote bag. I am planning on making more! Yes...I have the pattern!

Picture Keeper
She also made me this neat case for my grandson's picture. You can resize for business cards or whatever your hearts desire. And could it get any better when she also made me this wonder knitting bag. She knitted it and felted it in one of my favorite colors.....PURPLE! Yeah!

Knitting Bag

Newest Knitting Project

I love this yarn....it is so yummy and I just love the colors. It actually shows up better in person. I received this yarn from one of my swap partners in a knitting and coffee swap. Thanks Carin!

Could life be any better? Purple, yarn things, and yarn! I just need more time!