Gypsyknits

Beginnings

2012-01-06T06:16:00.003-05:00

Christmas is over and the New Year has commenced. 2010 had ups and downs and I'll try not to reflect on the downs. Christmas week was a busy one and is now a distant blur of activity but I'll give a quick run-down.

In spite of Mr. Bettis's chronicled and non-chronicled antics, Santa Paws came to visit. Mr. B is the only one who received a purchased gift, a new bed. He was a happy dog and promptly flopped down. An ortho bed is on his wish list next year so here's hoping he's a good dog for 2012.

All gifts were handmade this year (what little I managed to finish), handknit wool mittens, hats, scarves and gloves. Unfortunately the temps were 50 degrees and I felt as if I was handing a sled to kid with no snow on the ground.

Our son and DIL arrived with the grand. Santa notified my dad (her great-grand) that she was getting a doll for Christmas so he made a doll bed for her. We were able to watch her surprise on Christmas morn via webcam. We are also the proud grands of a new grandbaby who was born in early December.

Lo and behold we finally received snow (other than the Halloween freak snowstorm). It didn't amount to much but it was enough to keep Mr. Bettis entertained. I have no idea where winter is hiding but it can appear at any time. There's nothing like a cup of hot chocolate, sweatpants and knitting needles in hand on a snowy afternoon.

Love Was Born

2011-12-24T21:40:00.001-05:00

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas. "God Bless Us Everyone"

TerpThon

2011-12-10T15:27:00.005-05:00

Hi all! I'm Savvy. Some of you may remember hearing from me a couple times before about Terp Thon. For the past two years, I have been a participant of this event. This year, though, I have been blessed with the opportunity to be more involved with this amazing organization. This is just such an incredible and worthy cause, and I can't even begin to imagine my life without it. So for those of you who don't know or remember, let me tell ya all about it.

Terp Thon is a student-run organization at UMD. We raise money and awareness year-round for the Children's Miracle Network, which connects us to a local hospital. All the money we raise goes directly to our hospital, the Children's National Medical Center in DC. The Dance Marathon is an event in the spring at which participants pledge to stand on their feet for 12 hours for those who can't. The 12 hours represents the typical nurse's shift at the hospital. The Dance Marathon is basically a celebration of all the money we raised throughout the year. We invite some of the kids from the hospital and just make them feel like rockstars for the day. It is an absolute blast, and it really is a life-changing event. In only our second year last year, Terp Thon raised nearly $140,000 - more than any Dance Marathon has ever raised in its second or third year! Terp Thon is one of the fastest growing Dance Marathons in the nation, and we continue to try to make it even better.

Everything we do is FTK, For The Kids. The kids in these hospitals deserve nothing but the best. Every year, I meet more of these kids, and every time, they make my heart melt. Everything they go through, yet they maintain such spirit and motivation. It just moves you. They are so grateful for what we do. And to think, for most of us it's as simple as turning down that one Starbucks coffee or putting down that extra skein of yarn in order to donate a couple dollars to the cause. These "couple dollars" add up so quickly and truly help save lives. Check out this video to see a little about what we're trying to do here. We are trying to make a difference in the lives of amazing kids like Ollie.

This time of year, I think it's really important to be grateful for everything we have. I think we often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everything that we forget the simple things in life. This holiday season, I just ask that you remember the real reason for the holidays and enjoy it.

If in the spirit of the season you're interested in donating to this incredible cause, please feel free to check out my donation page: www.helpmakemiracles.org/participant/smason . I definitely appreciate it, and I know the kids do as well…more than I can even express.

I hope you all have a safe and happy holiday season, and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

Final Countdown has Begun

2011-12-04T07:32:00.004-05:00

Our Thanksgiving was a quiet one and we were stuffed for days. My 92 yr old grandmother was able to attend and we enjoyed her company. She engaged in a game of Who-opoly with the younger set. It was a hoot hearing her try to get out of paying rent and these people are ruthless and give no slack (they learned from her)....LOL She even tried (laughingly) to con her way by using old age as an excuse.

Mr. Bettis was quiet for the most part waiting anxiously for a bit of turkey to land on the floor.

The Black Friday shoppers spent hours watching the Macy's Day Parade and studying the sales ads. Remind me to post a picture of them after their shopping spree....lol

My dishes are Platzgraff and these were given to us as a wedding gift from my in-laws. I only use them on special occasions. Our table setting is country simple :).

The time passed much too fast and soon it was time to load 'em up and move 'em out as the DH says. Chem Girl was packed and ready to head out to her college home.

Every year we give her a semester exam box. There is a package to open every day for the Final Exam Countdown.

The little red booklet has a hint of each package to be opened per day. She doesn't have time to read the blog so I'll share a few of the goodies. Just to name a few: a can of make your own snow, erasers (to erase the next 19 days), chocolate (to ease stress), grow your own tree (miniature and of course it's a joke), and a bag of crocheted white 'snow' balls (to grab a friend and have a 'snowball' fight.

We receive a text every evening of thanks for each little prezzie. It's nice to know she has a little highlight every evening.

I participated in a Christmas jingle and whipped up this little ornament package tie-on.

The final countdown has begun here as well. We have opted for only homemade gifts with the exception of a few inexpensive gifts. The baking/candy making marathon is upon us and the decorating is almost finished.

How is it that we know this day comes every year at the same time and I'm always last minute?

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:55:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to friends and family near and far. May we be thankful for the many blessings bestowed upon us. God Bless Everyone!

He's at it again...

2011-11-15T11:32:00.003-05:00

See these two??? Well they're not as innocent as they appear. And yes I reluctantly admit that I believe Little Miss Gypsy Jo was in on the sequin party. (she does like glam)
Life has been busy and hectic and apparently Mr. Bettis decided it wasn't busy or hectic enough so he created some drama.
We were gone for an hour and this is what greeted us.

First up a container of itty bitty sequins was completely destroyed. That is not the original container. I only found bits and pieces of the original and can only presume the rest of the container was eaten. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to pick up itty bitty sequins?

This is the lid to the container or should I say what's left of the lid.

My wedding corsage that was sitting on the antique dresser in our living room and there's only ONE dog who could reach it....yep! Mr. Bettis.
What puzzles me is this has been displayed on the dresser since Sept 12, 2011 and he chose now to destroy it? I just don't get it.
Of course his owner was a wee bit disgruntled but chose to overlook it. After all Mr. Bettis doesn't destroy one thing that belongs to the owner.
Thankfully we arrived home in what I believe was the nick of time because I found one of my bedroom slippers (that was in the bedroom) wet with slobber so I have a suspicion my slippers were about to be destroyed.
By the way: I'm still finding sequins. Maybe I should just ignore them and say they're part of our Christmas decorations.

Awareness Month

2011-11-13T06:58:00.004-05:00

November is RSD/CRPS Awareness Month. I have been diagnosed with CRPS Stage 2. It is a difficult condition to live with let alone explain so I'll let that for the professionals. For more information click here.

Pass the Puffs...

2011-11-03T17:51:00.003-05:00

Thanks to my family I am now battling the respiratory virus. I escaped it for quite awhile but it hit with a venegance today. I don't really have time for the coughing, congestion, wheezing and sneezing as the holidays are fast approaching and there's much gift making to be finished. Forget that Life has also been tossing a few other challenges our way. Anyway, I'm well stocked with Halls throat lozenges. Puffs with Vicks is hard to find in this town and they're my favorite weapon of choice. The DH has been home for approximately 1 hour and claims he's heard enough of the wheezing, coughing and sneezing so he's sleeping on the couch. WOOT-WOOT! I get the bed all to myself! Now I'm off to fix some hot tea, lather the Vicks on my forehead, and throw a Halls in mouth so I can get some of this gift knitting on the move. What's your weapon of choice when you're sick?

Trick or Treat

2011-10-29T17:35:00.004-05:00

A few believe the nor'easter was a trick and there are those of us who believe it's a treat. This is what we awoke to this morning. I'm not certain whether to light the pumpkin or Christmas lights. The roads were a slushy mess but that didn't stop the DH and I from making a trip to town. He had to work for an hour and I rode along. Forgot to take the camera but I must say the colored leaves with the snow laying on them looked like Christmas. It was beautiful.This is a yellow maple in our front yard.

We spent the rest of our day cleaning out (DH doing the grunt work) . Whew!Trick or treating is cancelled for the night so we're popping in a Christmas movie. My needles are clicking, there's a few gifts to be finished. There will be finished project pics to come later.

It's a Mask....No, it's a hat...

2011-10-19T06:22:00.004-05:00

Stash busting and flying needles. Thank goodness because I have major gift knitting to finish. I've wanted to make the Kitchen Hat for awhile now and finally dug in the stash to cast on. Found an alpaca/wool blend and finished this in 48 hours. A quick knit with a great fit.Next up is a cat hat for our granddaughter. She luvres 'yeows' as she calls them and she wanted a cat costume for Halloween. I used more stash for this and it's oh-so-soft.

Now to the bigger story. We've had a bear, a possum and now a newbie visiting our trash cans. The bear is a messy sorter. Trash is strewn all over the yard and he leaves one big mess. The possum hides out in the can and when you least expect it, he hisses and he digs BIG holes in the bags and throws stuff out of the can. I'd put a picture of the possum but they're so nasty I couldn't even find a cute picture. I'd take one myself but since I had a possum encounter when I was a child, I'm terrified of the beasts.
Introducing Rick the Raccoon. The husband went out the back door and heard a noise in the trash can so he grabbed the flashlight and was surprised to see a masked face. Mr. Bettis wasn't about to miss the action and carried on like...well....like a dog who has encountered an intruder. Rick Raccoon is young and he just stared at the hubby as if to say, 'you're interrupting my snack, you know.' This certainly explains the meticulous trash picking that I've noticed recently.

We need cans with locked lids if only the bear wouldn't trample and destroy them in the process. Personally I happen to like the visiting deer. They snack on the fallen apples and do a find job cleaning up unlike their forest friends.

One of those days....

2011-10-17T16:32:00.005-05:00

Ever have one of those days?? Well today is it!

Rambling

2011-10-11T08:10:00.007-05:00

Stuck indoors for 10 days in drenching downpours is inspirational in many ways. While sitting on my duff knitting I could look into the dark and dreary kitchen. This corner is very dark in dreary weather so now I'm debating on painting the base a weathered white (as well as the walls) and the doors in a retro green so I can accent with my red appliances (mainly my fancy red coffee maker that Jessi gifted last year ). Problem? My cupboards are solid wood and I'm not certain I really want them painted. The of course there's the 1970's green countertop staring me in the face and funds certainly won't allow a new countertop right now. Well it was a thought....So the DH moved the pie safe from the living room to the kitchen and removed the towel cupboard to the kitchen. Rearranged my cookbook collection from the baker's rack to the cupboard. I'm happy with the look. This is what I was knitting while my mind was swirling about the kitchen cupboards. A Rambling Rows afghan for the DH. He's been wanting an afghan of his very own and since I'm knitting from stash these days this was a great stash buster. I wondered if he'd share this with the knitter but Chan was quick to point out he'll probably more than likely share with Mr. Bettis instead.

I love the end result and I just may have to cast on for another one only this time it will be mine ;).
Handspun yarn from who knows when. Bfl 240 yds light worsted and I despised the color so it went for dye bath.
And this was the final result. Forgive the picture please. I took umpteen pics and still couldn't capture the rosy red colorway. I'm loving this now but have no idea what to knit.

Little Boy Blue

2011-10-04T17:57:00.004-05:00

The baby shower travel on Sunday was as messy as the weatherman predicted. I forgot to take a picture of the gift basket but I did remember to get some pics of a few of the basket goodies that I finished for grandbaby #2. We know this one is a boy so crochet baby converse sneakers in the new dad's favorite team colors were a must. Pittsburgh all the way!A warm snuggy or cocoon (whatever name they use nowadays). I had a heck of a time finding a nice button and finally settled on a plain black one. One skein of Lion Brand thick and quick lived up to it's name, thick AND quick.I saw a few of these car booties on Ravelry but couldn't find a pattern so I made my own. They were a big hit at the shower and I'm sure take him places ;).

No baby is complete without a classic sweater set. Sirdar DK yarn in a nice speckled blue added just the right amount of color to keep this knitter interested and yet offer a classic set.

The fish hat was for fun. I got a kick knitting this and presenting it. The new mom-to-be seemed to be thrilled and gave a warm and heartfelt thanks for the handmade goodies. I also made a toy and another fun hat but since blogger doesn't allow more than 5 pictures per post I'll add it in the next one.

The trip was wet and dreary and what should've been a 2 hour ride home dragged into 2 hours and 45 minutes. Now the countdown begins until grandbaby #2 decides it's time to meet everyone.

Little Black Rain Cloud

2011-10-01T21:41:00.003-05:00

Well this is the 9th day of rain and I gotta tell ya, it's getting old. I'm beginning to think the sun (ya know? that yellow ball of heat in the sky?) has retired for an early hibernation. Now of course the weatherman is throwing around the word snow but I truly think he only said it so he could get some attention. It's very early for snow even in this neck of the mountain.With the exception of VERY LARGE Mister B muddy pawprints I haven't minded the rain (too much). It has helped my knitting mojo and trust me, there's a lot of knitting that needs to be finished. Pictures to come later, I'm wrapping a baby shower gift for tomorrow and much to my dismay it will be rainy travel.

BANG!

2011-09-27T11:51:00.008-05:00

I'm going to begin this blog with a BANG! little Miss Chem-girl called yesterday afternoon and the first words out of her mouth were "I'm alright." Those two words are always great to hear but they are also words of warning for what's to come.
Seems there was an explosion in the Chemistry building on campus and of course she was in the building when it happened. Fire trucks, rescue and police were on the scene within minutes. A student mixed a big no-no with acid (don't ask me, I'm not a chemistry person, I know H2O and Fe. Other than that? forget it.). Thank goodness she's smart enough to make an immediate call to her dear mother because it was on the news within minutes (nevermind facebook was blowing up with info as well). Knowing she was in the building at the time of the incident would've caused great concern and had she not called I would've been in a panic. There were a few injured students and we're sending good thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.

Over the weekend we had an 'incident' of our own. I put my coffee cup on the sink ledge while blow drying my hair. Then I laid the running dryer in the sink while I put gel in my hair. The cup jiggled (yes, jiggled) and spilled into the sink on the running dryer. I screamed, DH ran and pulled the plug. Smoke and sparks were flying and the dryer is officially 'fried'.
I found this little pink dryer and snagged it. Some of the profit goes to fight breast cancer and since my MIL is battling breast cancer (again) I thought it very fitting.

I vow to keep the tag on the spankin' new dryer ;).
Recently it was brought to my attention that a local person made the oh-so-snark remark referring to new medical/financial developments, 'what else is wrong with this family?'
I'd like to say what my grandmother always said when others choose to 'judge'; don't worry about sweepin' someone else's porch when your own porch needs a good sweepin'. Hrmph!

In the meantime, I'm on the way to Little Miss Chem-girl's college to change her major....LOL (just kidding).

The Wedding

2011-09-15T20:21:00.008-05:00

9-10-2011 The day our eldest daughter (Vetgirl) became a Mrs. Forgive the mish-mash of pictures, blogger is not cooperative when it comes to posting pictures in an orderly fashion.

The Bride, Groom, Sister Bridesmaid and a friend goofing off in the background.

The guests were very pleased with the atmosphere and the food which was delicious. Herb chicken or pasta, salad, potatoes and steamed vegetables were the menu choices.

The flower girl.

Upon my request the bride and her ladies-in-waiting gave me a good shot of the gown backs although they look like they're in a hold-up ;)

My nephew who was also the best man baked the cake to suit the couple consisting of dog paw prints and a techo thing in the middle for the groom. It suited them well, very tasty and he received rave reviews.

Flowers and a picture were in honor of the groom's brother who is serving in the United States Navy. He's on the look-out for a video of the ceremony since he was unable to attend.

The bride with one of her favorite cousins. They were born 3 months apart and went to school together from K-12. They also played in the band drum pit for 4 yrs and have many fun memories.

We're finally caught up on our rest. I've reflected for days and some of the ceremony/reception is a blur. We had a wonderful time and we're very happy for her and our new son-in-law who will now be referred as Tech-Guy on this blog ;).

They are on their honeymoon and will be returning soon. I've heard from Vetgirl and she talked non-stop. We are anxious for them to return so we can hear more about their trip and we can't wait for the pictures.

Today is the day...

2011-09-10T11:35:00.003-05:00

Please forgive the poor picture of this blogger but I had to post it anyway.

The daughter in the middle is getting married today. We are very happy and excited for her.

This particular post is focused (for now) on those gorgeous shawls we are sporting.

G and Chan encouraged me to knit a CopyKate shawl for the bride-to-be and started a kal. Chan made the pink shawl for Chemgirl (on the left) and G made the green shawl for me.

They arrived in plenty of time and on what was a rather gloomy and despairing day. You girls made our day and we absolutely love the time, effort, love and care that was painstakingly in these beauties (yes, we have admired the zillion ruffle stitches ;). These are like a hug from dear friends. Thank you again for making our day a happy one with many more to come.

Empty Nest...Part II

2011-09-02T07:06:00.005-05:00

Empty Nest Part I brings me to this post. Chem girl has returned to college. We patiently waited for Hurricane Irene to exit and make the move.

Packing the car is always an interesting endeavor with DH. The pillows were 'smooshed' on top of the packed trunk.

The backseat was full to the top of the car and this was all I could see of her during the trip.

For the first time she has a spacious room with not one but two windows. Drywall vs concrete block walls which she dubbed 'prison walls' makes her feel as if she's home. She also has air conditioning which is another plus. She has not had air for the past 2 years and the heat and humidity were horrible in the concrete block dorms.

She dragged the flamingo lights and this little guy with her. What is up with this kid and flamingos? LOL

Just like the Cardinal family in Empty Nest Part I we've encouraged the baby to take flight. We now have an empty nest once again. Time is moving quickly and in another year or so we will have an permanent empty nest.
There will be another post of Mr. Bettis and his antics while we were gone but that will have to wait.
In the meantime I am in the process of downsizing and cleaning out. Everything MUST GO! well with the exception of my yarn ;)

Empty Nest...Part I

2011-09-02T06:53:00.004-05:00

It's that time of the year. This is Part I of a two part post.
In July we found these babies in the bush by our swimming pool.

Within 2 days they were ready to fly from the nest. I almost accidently brushed this one from the branch. Had no idea he was sitting within a foot of my face when I walked past.

Mom and dad were nearby chirping and encouraging them to fly. Chem girl and I laid on the bed inside and watched from the window. Two of them flew within an hour but the last one took a long time taking flight.
It was quite fascinating to watch the process of birth, nurturing and success of this little family as mom and dad Cardinal emptied their nest.
Now for Part II of the Empty Nest.

Whole Lot of Shaking Goin' On

2011-08-24T07:05:00.004-05:00

The East Coast earthquake was a hot topic. We felt the shakes, cookie jars, pictures and walls were rattling. A bit unnerving but we're fine. Mr. Bettis and Gypsy ignored the whole event while Molly and Calico (the old one) pinned their ears and went into hiding.
However the earthquake wasn't the only thing hot around here. Within minutes of the quake a local gas station erupted into flames.

Our local fire departments (volunteer as well) were on the scene. These men and women are heroes in my book. DH was a junior firemen in his younger days and went on to be a volunteer fireman for many years until his spine injury interferred.

This picture was taken when the first responders were on the scene. Only took a few more minutes and the main road was shut down.

Thankfully no one was injured but the station has been declared 'totaled'.

That's all the news in this neck of the woods for now and quite frankly we don't need anymore. But wait! Hurricane Irene is fast approaching the area of Chem DD's college and we're now re-evaluating move in day which is scheduled for Sunday. In the meantime I'm knitting like mad ;)

Candles

2011-08-02T07:54:00.004-05:00

We culminated the weekend with Chem-girl's birthday.
Once again cupcakes were on the menu and they were decorated with tie-dye colored icing. I have no idea where your's truly was but asleep at the camera this weekend missing pictures of food goodies.
I would share the Happy Birthday sing-a-long but with the exception of the DH there's not one good voice among the bunch.

She blew the candles with one blow and I hope she gets her wish.
Notice who wasn't about to miss the celebration (eyeroll)....Mr. B.

There's a post in writing written solely for him and I know his attorney is busy celebrating her birthday today but he's barking loud and clear for representation. He's also sending very loud birthday wishes ;).

Here Comes the Bride....not yet

2011-07-30T16:53:00.004-05:00

July 30, 2011-The bridal shower commenced. It was planned for the outdoors at my parent's beautiful landscaped yard but due to the oppressive heat and humidity we moved it indoors to the rec room.

Vet Girl had a blast. Games were planned by the Maid Of Honor and of course the TP wedding dress game was the finale.
Here she is (l to r) with her junior bridesmaid, Chem Girl (her sister) and a very dear friend Bio Girl.

It's very important to photograph the backs of the designer dresses :).

This pic clearly shows her excitement through the party.
The bridesmaids kicked in gear serving lemonade/ice tea, keeping food plentiful and presenting the gifts.
She received many useful gifts and appreciated all of them. Pics to come later.

Chem girl turned the bows into the traditional rehearsal bouquet.

Everyone had a good time. There was plenty of good food (although your's truly forgot to get pictures) so you'll have to take my word for it.

It's only a month till the Big Day and we're gearing up for the Celebration.

Mish mash

2011-07-29T10:23:00.005-05:00

Chem girl decided she wanted to be a designer seamstress for a day. A trip to the local fabric store and she came home with fabric ready to cut and design. She doesn't like patterns and prefers to 'wing it' (like her mama ;).

She saw a shirt similar to this in a magazine for $50 and there's no way she was paying that price.

The back had a very wide elastic band on the purchased top. However our local fabric store doesn't carry anything wider than 2" elastic. In spite of that she made it work.

She saw this piece in the remnant stack and fell in love with it. Her finish work is quite impressive. It's a flimsy knit and those of you who sew know exactly what I'm talking about. Very fine sewing machine needle and a fabric that slips all over the place. She did a great job. Think it's time to have her sew for me ;).

*sigh*....while we were gone Mr. Bettis apparently needed to create his own entertainment so he dug out the placemats. They're housed on our baker's rack in the kitchen.

This is the third (or is it the fourth?) time he's dug these out. Guess I need to find another place for the mats. See the flip flops in the left hand corner? I'm shocked he didn't chew those all over the floor. Guess if we were gone just a wee bit longer they would have become this week's trash.
Tomorrow is our eldest daughter's (Vet girl)bridal shower and we're wrapping up the final touches. Sunday is the youngest daughter's (Chem girl) birthday celebration. Pictures and details to come later. It's a busy weekend.

What's on your weekend agenda?

Persevere

2011-07-26T07:20:00.005-05:00

Persevere and get it done. George Allen, Sr.

It's finished! It's done! I stuck with it and I can't believe it's finished. Still needs a good blocking but I can't wait for my daughter to open it this Saturday at the shower.

Bridal shower favors in color. Twenty-five little candle cakes have been completed and boxed in little favor boxes. If you're on Ravelry check out the Tea Cake Light pattern. They are crocheted and only take 15 minutes from start to finish. I posted pattern changes on my Ravelry project page so check it out.

The shower and wedding are/have consumed a lot of my time here of late and I'm behind on a few birthdays. I'll catch up eventually ;)

Hot Popcorn

2011-07-22T12:03:00.003-05:00

This was sent to my email inbox from several friends and I thought I would share. Says it all, don't ya think?

The Shawl that never ends...

2011-07-21T10:55:00.006-05:00

Do you remember the Song That Never Ends?

Well I can't get it out of my head while knitting the 1400+ ruffle stitches in k1,p1 ribbing on this shawl. Only I'm singing the Shawl that never ends. The rows are tedious and I'm on a deadline, July 30th it must be finished, blocked and wrapped for the bridal shower.

In the meantime it's HOT as in 112F at 10 am this morning in the sun HOT :((. Patience is waning in the heat and humidity while trying to knit on the shawl that never ends.

Where's fall and winter when you need 'em?

Climb Every Mountain

2011-07-20T07:26:00.003-05:00

Bear with me as I catch up on last weekend's activity. Our eldest son and his wife called and were heading on a trip.

MC, our granddaughter couldn't wait to get in the water. She splished and splashed having a grand time just as her father did when he was a child.

I won't bore you with too many pics (because I take wa-a-ay too many) but this huge rock formation was nestled in the evergreens. We enjoy nature and can't get enough of it. I often wonder what the Native Americans thought when they first encountered the mountains in all their glory. I could sit for hours in solitude pondering that thought while waiting and watching for wildlife.

My new favorite pic of DH. He's working hard to lose some weight. A bit difficult when one can't exercise due to medical issues but I'll give him a big round of applause for trying.

We were planning a camping trip for a weekend but after today we're going to scrap it and opt for another day out when God paints the landscape for fall.

Who am I?

2011-07-13T15:16:00.013-05:00

This is not the original post but when I hopped over to Chan's post today and it got me to thinking about who I am.
I am a wife and mother. Nothing grated on my nerves anymore than for someone to ask, "what do you do?" and when told I'm a housewife the next response was usually a deliberate nod and a quiet, "oh. So you don't work out of the home?"
I have learned over the years to politely smile through clenched teeth and say, "no, I don't have time."It was tempting to laugh and say, 'oh no, I'm too busy watching soaps and eating bon-bons.' My day began at 5:30 am and ended at 11 pm as long as I wasn't nursing a sick kid.
I have admiration and respect for those who juggle a career and mom duties. I worked 5 days a week outside the home while raising 2 little boys as a single mom. When I remarried I still worked 5 days a week outside the home while sharing the raising of 2 little boys as well as housework, laundry and cooking.
Over time we discovered I was working to pay childcare and the DH was working 12-16 hour days. So I quit and became a full-time wife and mother. Please bear with me as I enlighten you of these full-time duties.
Laundry-washed then hung out on the clothesline vs the dryer (saves money)
Cooking- baking and cooking ALL 3 meals and snacks vs eating out (saves money)
Housework- means I don't hire out for help (saves money)
Sewing clothing vs buying (once again saving money) as well as last minute school/church pageant costumes
Planting and tending a garden then spending 6 weeks canning and freezing-saves money
Nurse- for skinned up knees, viruses and hospital/dr care
Referee- for sibling battles
Teacher-reading, counting and when they were old enough, homework (whether helping or nagging to get it done)
Supervisor-because our dear children couldn't grasp doing their chores without a supervisor in charge.
Chauffeur-running kids to ball practice, dance, piano/musical instrument lessons, 4-H, church, Bible school etc.
Banker-pay the bills

I know a few can relate to this so I will mention the PTA and extra curricular activity leaders who felt because I was a stay-at-home mom and housewife I had 'extra' time to make phone calls, bake goodies, run meetings etc. As the kids grew I opened a cottage industry making and selling teddy bears across the country.
Who am I now that the kids are grown? I'm still a housewife but now I can claim I am also a knitter and a spinner and I love my job(s).

Froggin'

2011-07-10T10:42:00.005-05:00

Raised on a farm meant climbing trees and froggin' were a few of my summer pastimes. Barefeet and wading in the 'crick' lookin' for slimey green frogs was fun. All grown up means I don't go froggin' anymore. However that doesn't stop me from jumping the frog pond but it has a different meaning these days as in rip-it rip-it the knitting.
This luscious skein of neutral Malabrigo yarn was an almost finished scarf request. It hit the frog pond yesterday. The requestee had a change of mind so the yarn will now become something else for someone else or it just might become MINE! :D

I can't find the yarn label to this self-striping yarn. It was on the needles to become a pair of socks. I have issues with a single ply yarn used for socks. It doesn't have the strength (in my wee opinion) to wear well. I'm going to set it aside until I come up with another project idea.

A quick stop yesterday to our very tiny Jo-Ann Fabric store resulted in this lovely white sport yarn jumping in my shopping basket. It is so soft and I'm making a wee white sweater. Not for anyone in particular but just because I like the yarn. Isn't it fun to grab a yarn and make something just because? My favorite kind of knitting.

When all else fails...

2011-07-09T13:32:00.006-05:00

Ever feel like you were part of a train wreck and you missed seeing the train coming because you were too busy looking on the other side of the tracks? Well apparently that's what I was doing instead of paying attention to my 'gut' instinct. Someday I'll learn.
Anyway on to more uplifting things in Life. Hubby tried to uplift my spirits so he purchased these two magazines for me. There are some fine hat patterns as well as a handsome man's cardigan pattern in knitsimple. Sometimes he can be a true Knight (I'll overlook him forgetting our anniversary last month)

Crocheting is not my forte but occasionally I enjoy being a hooker ;). I designed this hat upon request from Chem Girl DD. It's a hit!

In spite of recent events I take comfort in friends and our pets. Do we have too many pets? Probably in some peoples' eyes but I gotta tell ya, they make me laugh and they make me feel loved. Here's Mr. B on the loveseat and ya know what? I don't care. He's a mischievous rascal from time to time but I'll admit that his love never ends. So what if he's on the loveseat. The cover gets washed every couple of days and he's our dog and it's our furniture...hrmph!

Of course I will not overlook the spoiled one, Miss Gypsy. She is a Yorkie/maltese and may I just say, she has that Yorkie terrier personality down to a science. She's not as fond of the camera as Mr. Bettis who is not at all camera shy. It took a few tries to get this pic but she indulged her dear owner.
Think I'll go thru the stash and look for some yarn for DH a sweater. ssshhhh.....don't tell him ;)
Our weekend is rather quiet. What's on your weekend agenda?

Carry-on

2011-07-05T16:13:00.006-05:00

We celebrated the nation's birthday with a picnic and fireworks. God Bless America!

I baked homemade strawberry cupcakes topped with a delicious strawberry buttercream frosting. The frosting recipe was my own experiment and it's received rave reviews from the daughters who were hovering over the icing bowl.
The major summer holiday of the U.S.A. is over and now we carry on for the next two months until our mountains are full of rich fall color and the temperatures are cooler. I could've sworn I heard katy-dids this morning...but ssshhhh....don't tell anyone, it's a sign that Fall is around the corner.

Getting ready for the cool days and nights that will soon be upon us, I'm stash busting an afghan. I have quite a few skeins of leftover wool from years past and it's time to use it. This is a simple double crochet ripple.

Occasionally I enjoy a crochet project that's mindless and yet creative and this one fills the bill.

I'm still knitting on the copycat shawl but those rows are getting might long.

What if anything do you cast on for Fall?

I am the Nation

2011-07-03T18:08:00.004-05:00

On July 4th, 1776 the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America was signed by 56 delegates. The famous preamble, includes the ideas and ideals that were principles of the Declaration. It is also an assertion of what is known as the "right of revolution": that is, people have certain rights, and when a government violates these rights, the people have the right to "alter or abolish" that government. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

I pledge allegiance to the United States of America, and to the republic for which I stand, One Nation Under God, indivisble, with Liberty and Justice for All.
We said that pledge every single day in our schools. On this day I want to say God Bless the USA. May we as American citizens never forget the words of Thomas Jefferson: "A government big enough to give you everything you need, is a government big enough to take away everything that you have...."

Please take a moment and enjoy this video: I am the Nation

Copycat

2011-06-28T20:14:00.006-05:00

Remember in an earlier post I wrote that our eldest daughter requested a look-a-like shawl for her honeymoon? Well thanks to Chan I now have the required amount of yarn in the perfect color.

Her bridal shower is July 30th and I plan to have this finished by then.

This pattern had a chevron design but I opted to forego the main body pattern in lieu of a larger shawl with a full ruffle. The larger shawl ruffle will result in a zillion or so stitches (by my estimate ;). Another reason to skip the chevron pattern. I want to do the ruffle in k1p1 instead of st st which would cause it to curl.

And if anyone knows me they know how much I dislike k1p1. I'll keep you posted on the progress. So far so good. I hear the heat and humidity are returning so the air conditioner will be cranked so I can knit away.

Celebration

2011-06-27T19:11:00.004-05:00

Our weekend plans were disrupted but we still celebrated Vetgirl's birthday on Sunday.
She requested cupcakes with peanut butter frosting. So Betty and I baked yellow butter cupcakes. Homemade peanut buttercream frosting topped the cupcakes with a Nutter Butter cookie as a final touch.

The pictures switched on blogger so this post is a bit backwards. The festivities began with a family picnic and my much requested Italian Pasta salad. This is a mainstay at our picnics.

These two felines sat perched by the antique table. Their food dish is on the table due to a certain...ahem...140lb dog who thinks their dinner is his snack.
We watched this pair as they stared at the table as if they were debating who was going jump first. Ms. Aurora (the white cat) is t-r-o-u-b-l-e and as soon as Phoebe decided she wanted to jump on the table Ms Aurora jumped in front of her knocking her to the floor. Of course if you know anything about a cat you know what they do when that happens, shake it off and walk away as if she intended to get knocked down. Silly cats.

What's your most requested dish for a picnic or dinner?

Oh Happy Day....

2011-06-23T08:19:00.004-05:00

See this couple? It's the hubby and me. This pic was taken a lo-o-ong time ago at a family event. On this day, 27 yrs ago at 4 pm, we were married. I can't believe it's been that long. Like most married couples, we've had our ups and our downs. My sister sent a text this morning with happy wishes, informing that she thought we were carrying the vows '...in sickness'....for poorer' just a wee bit too far. Leave it to my sis to make me chuckle :).

But wait....there's more....

See the kid on the right? That's our eldest daughter and this pic was taken a long time ago too. On this very day 25 yrs ago at 5:52 am, our eldest daughter was born.
She is as fluent in sarcasm as her dear mother and father ;) and she makes me laugh on a daily basis.

This pic is of her and her pal, Robbie. Horse shows were her life for quite a few years. A lot of hard work but many wonderful memories.

Like most sisters, she and her sister can 'scrap' with the best of 'em. The difference is, 20 minutes later they're laughing over something silly and making plans to 'hang-out'.
I'm not certain if she's hugging her little sister here or trying to squeeze her to death.

Happy Birthday kiddo! We Love You in spite of you taking OUR anniversary date for YOUR birthday ;)!

Happy Dad's Day

2011-06-19T06:37:00.005-05:00

This is my dad and me on my Christening Day. I was a mere 6 months old and as you can tell my dad was young, a mere 19 yrs old. I hear times were tough but I never knew that as a kid. My dad was the one who taught us how to play tag, hide 'n seek and baseball, ride a bike, chase lightin' bugs, shoot a gun and churn good ole' fashion ice cream. I have wonderful memories of the good ole' days.
Love ya, Dad.

So many male role models are a factor in a child's life and my father-in-law was one of them. He's gone now, passing quietly and unexpectedly after surgery a few years ago. When I met my husband this little guy on the right was 2 yrs old and my father-in-law stepped up to the plate and took the role of grandfather and he did an awesome job. He had a twinkle in his eye and a quiet sense of humor. He was a good Christian man and we miss him dearly.

The guy on the left is the DH. He took on the daunting task of raising our 4 kids. Living in the Appalachians means jobs are scarce and it's a tough life. Great place to raise kids but good jobs are hard to find. This guy sometimes worked 16-18 hour days, 7 days a week to sustain us to give the kids opportunities they may otherwise not have had. Times were tough but we did it.

He taught them to fish, took them to car races, attended as many events as he could; band performances, horse shows, dance recitals and he was a boy scout leader which entailed camping trips in all kinds of weather. I appreciate everything he has done for this family.

Happy Father's Day to all those who stepped up to the plate to do their best to be good role models for their children.

The Queen of Hearts

2011-06-17T17:05:00.006-05:00

In spite of everything you have not seen on this blog I have actually been busy.
Another baby set. This time the timeline was a few months so I took my time and enjoyed the knit.
I'm calling this set, The Queen of Hearts.

It's made from Berrocco Comfort Worsted. This is my baby go-to yarn. It does have a tendency to split if one is not careful but I like the finished product, it's soft and comfy.

A Tomato (or is it an Apple) hat for another little gift. This is Caron Simply Soft. The pattern is quick and made in a few hours. Perfect gift for a quick deadline.

Last but not least our eldest daughter will be getting married. She saw this shawl and decided she wanted one for her honeymoon. Say what??? When I suggested a shawl a few months ago to go with her gown she scoffed it. She saw this and made an immediate request. Again, say what??? Chan was quick to point out that mom can't possibly be as trendy as the Duchess.
So Chan and I are going to begin a rather loose based KAL to knit this shawl. The pattern we want won't be out until the last week of June. I have a deadline which is the DD's bridal shower the end of July. Here's hoping for cool weather and fast knitting ;).

More Squeals

2011-06-15T08:53:00.006-05:00

Recently I've become interested in baking cakes/cupcakes and dabbling in a little decorating. Nothing fancy just playing with frosting. Made a mistake by putting sprinkles on it and they ran to the sides. Won't do that one again.
I used the Betty Crocker butter recipe mix. It's my new go-to-quick mix if I don't have time to make it from scratch. The frosting is a very tasty buttercream. Yum!

Another day for Chem DD to stalk the UPS driver. He arrived late and dropped of this very large package while she was at work. She has been saving for a while now and finally broke the piggy bank to get something special.

A guitar. This kid and her oldest brother love music and have a talent to pick up most instruments and begin playing. She had years of lessons with her flute so I'm certain that helped to enhance her instrument ability.

Music fills our home :).

Squeals of Delight

2011-06-12T11:00:00.003-05:00

The girls placed an order for clothing. They stalked the tracking order page for days and when it said it would be delivered by the end of the day I thought they were going to go look for the UPS driver.
They had a deal that both must be present to open it. There were screeches and much excitement (you would've thought it was Christmas) when the UPS driver dropped off the package.

These two crack me up.

Mr. Bettis truly believes he's the size and weight of Miss Gypsy. Excuse me? The big oaf weighs in at 140 which is a far cry from 8 lbs. Regardless he climbs on the couch and proceeds to make every attempt to sit on a human's lap. Only his head and one paw fit. Silly dog.

I am a firm believe that a dog has an agenda in their every action. As in, Miss Gypsy's cuteness gets a t-r-e-a-t every time. Yes we must spell it.

Mr. Bettis has an uncanny knack 'kicking' one out of their seat so he can have it. He also paces the floor and whines every single morning until someone, anyone drags his huge bed to the living room.
Mr. Bettis has the personality of a 6 yr old little boy with ADHD if that gives you any clue to his personality. He knows all of two tricks now: SIT and give me a kiss. The girls taught him the last trick. Not too certain how many people are going to ask for a big ole tongue kiss from this oaf but he finally knows another trick.

p.s. By the way, I do not count chewing the cat's food dish to smithereens a trick.

Dear Summer

2011-05-31T19:37:00.006-05:00

Dear Summer,

While I have anticipated your arrival I never once anticipated the stifling heat. The temps were 94 F in the shade!

We have installed the air conditioners which is a job much like setting up the Christmas Tree...ahem! Take note: high temperatures have a tendency to shorten temper fuses ;)

Even Mr. Bettis is a bit disillusioned with the heat and spends very little time outside. Mind you, I'm certain the neighborhood is quite content upon not hearing his constant barking at anything that moves.

Speaking of, you have failed to provide a breeze. Albeit a warm breeze, but none-the-less a breeze would be appreciated.

A breeze would also help with the knitting and there are only 207 days left until St. Nick arrives.
Please take note and at least blow a little wind so a leaf moves then perhaps I can knit one full row.

The pool is filled, pump up and running and all is well and good with one exception; if you insist on HOT temperatures it would be nice if you could warm up the pool...lickety split otherwise turn down the thermostat.

Thank you,

Heatstroke in Appalachia

It's Spring....again

2011-05-05T13:24:00.004-05:00

Mr. Bettis barks and barks. All. Day. Long. And this is what has captured his undivided attention as well as the birds, squirrels, leaves...come to think of it, anything that moves.
This rabbit is BIG! Kind of reminds me of Harvey only he's not white.
Gonna be a lo-o-o-ong summer as usual.

It's been rare seeing the sun and today is one of those rare days. I'm a fan of Dandelions. Yup! Good ole dandelions. Nothing like a child showing up at the door hands behind their back clutching a fistfull of yellow dandelions. Brings a smile to my face just thinking of those days. We would choose a special Ball brand jar, fill it with water and put them on the dinner table for everyone to enjoy.
Love the smell of these little yellow flowers and dandelion makes great tea.

Chem girl called and she snagged two more trees. I'm telling ya, we're gonna be hidden in a forest by the time she graduates.
She asked about Chester and I must admit I was a bit concerned. Chester is small and the winter was harsh.
*sigh* So I grabbed the camera and cautiously approached dear little Chester.

Took a deep breath and looked into his tall house.
And there he was dressed in beautiful green finery.

I removed his house to get a better picture. Seems Mr. (or is it Mrs?) has a sprout. It's hard to see but on the left right beside Chester there's a skinny little sprout.
Chester has survived!!

Now to find room for the rest of the forest she's dragging home.

Summer Breeze

2011-04-28T14:14:00.004-05:00

There's been a summer breeze here along with humidity :( but that has not stopped me from finding my needles again. Cast on for this little dress and finished it in the nick of time.

I fell in love with the fabric and matched the center of the flower with a lovely raspberry cotton fingering yarn. Love the finished product (and so did my DIL). I'll be casting on for another one soon.

I've launched my site again with hand knit and hand crochet original designs. I'm enjoying this little endeavor so please go check it out.

On a somber note: Fortunately my friends and family are safe from the recent tornado outbreak.
My prayers are with those who lost loved ones and those who are suffering in the recent tornado disasters.

Arbor-y

2011-04-18T20:54:00.004-05:00

The college DD sent an email of a few things she needs. The second semester of her sophmore year is closing fast. Soon she'll be heading home for another summer of work and a little relaxation.

Please take note of #3. Just what is that child talking about???? LOL

1. Boxes 1. Trash bags 3. Empty quilt bags (if mom hasn’t used them all for yarn) 4. A couple envelopes 5. Stamp 6. Insurance card 7. Cleaner (to get dirt out of carpet) 8. Lotion (clear cylindrical bottle w/ green pump lid on floor under window-ish) 9. Necklace chain (my current one is ~56cm)

#7 is the result of a new plant. Seems the college put on another spring event day where the students could get free plants. Remember Chester from last year? Anyway, she has dubbed the new tree, Arby. However she called to tell me this: Seems Arby is on 'time-out' and will be sent home promptly. He was sunning on the windowsill and when a whoosh of wind came, he 'jumped' off the sill and landed on the carpet spilling his muddy contents on the white (yes, white) carpet. I have no clue where we're going to plant Arby. We're going to be well hidden in a forest of trees by the time she graduates.....

Lucky Ducky

2011-04-03T11:59:00.004-05:00

Prayers have been answered on this sunny Sunday morning. The story of an area dog (nicknamed Ducky) whose mouth was duct taped shut and thrown from a truck into a creek has been found. He wandered onto a porch miles from where he was dumped. A lot of mountains and woods for him to run and wander. He's at the vet office now and is very worn out. Poor guy, he's been wandering and running for a week but he's been found and now it's time to go after the abusers.........

MIssed April 1st

2011-04-02T15:02:00.005-05:00

I missed April Fool's Day and it's a good thing. I like to have a good laugh but not at the expense of a practical joke. I like humor but not practical jokes. Mother Nature played a practical joke all day yesterday. We had sun, rain, sleet and snow all in one day. Hope She had fun and got it out of her system. While I'm a winter gal it's time for flip-flops and t-shirts. Of course I hope it doesn't come with the heat and humidity. At least until I get this wool blanket finished. I'm making progress though. I cast on for a very special sweater. Can't mention it here but I know it will be appreciated and worn with love. Yes, another pic of the Earth and Sky set. It was packaged, sent and well received. There's been a bit of drama in our neck of the woods. Someone put duct tape around a dog's snout and threw him out of their truck into the creek. The men who did this were seen by a few fishermen. "Ducky" (as he is now dubbed) survived and is on the run. After a few days of organizing, safe traps are set and spotters are on the look out in an attempt to capture the poor thing. There a lot of woods and mountains for this little guy to hide. He has been spotted and we're praying he's caught soon and receives food and medical care. As for the perpetrators they also need to be caught and prosecuted and they will! Small town talk has a way of giving necessary information.

Sometimes....

2011-03-25T18:02:00.004-05:00

Purchased the yarn on March 19th and cast on within the hour of the purchase.
March 25th: Not only is the crib size blanket finished but I made a hat and booties to match from the leftover yarn.
Gotta say sometimes I even amaze myself.....LOL Just goes to prove I really can finish something.

Yarn: Berroco Comfort
Amount: 4 skeins of brown and 3 of the blue
I must admit the yarn is occasionally a little splitty but the end result is worth it. Perfect for babywear.
It's accented it with some free-hand embroidery.
I'm calling this the Earth and Sky Blanket Set.

It's packaged and ready to ship tomorrow. Hope my friend is happy with it :D.

Absent once again

2011-03-23T18:35:00.004-05:00

I've been absent once again but that's not to say I haven't been busy unlike Mr. Bettis who is snoozing away.

Knitting from stash is my goal this year so a Rambling Rows afghan was cast on. Not a pretty thing but it will be a warm afghan for next winter. I've already hit the stash for another one as soon as this one is finished.

Another mini Annis was cast on in the Patons FX sock yarn and finished in 2 days. I can't rave enough about this pattern.

A baby blanket has been cast on. It's a gift and there's a deadline as in 2 weeks and it must hit the mailbox. So far, so good and I think it will be in the PO hands shortly.
What's on your needles?

2011-03-07T16:26:00.011-05:00

Hey everyone! I am Kathy’s youngest DD, Savannah. As you may know, I am a college student. As springtime rolls in, we here at UMD really kick into charity functions. This year, I am again participating in TerpThon (March 12) and Relay for Life (April 2).

Terp Thon is an organization focused on raising money for the Children’s National Medical Center in DC. It is an event at which we pledge to remain on our feet for 12 hours, like nurses do every day at the hospitals. All donations go directly to the kids and doctors. Last year was UMD’s first Dance Marathon. We raised $56,000, making us the most successful first year dance marathon ever! Our goal this year is $100,000, and we are sooo close!! Check out www.helpmakemiracles.org/event/terpthon to learn more about the event or http://www.terpthon.org/ to see some touching videos of the miracle kids we are trying to help. I am mostly interested in spreading awareness about this organization. But I would also love for my school to reach it's goal and really help these kids out. If you are interested in donating, my fundraising page is http://www.helpmakemiracles.org/participant/smason1 . I know that times are tough, but even $1 donations can add up and go a long way in saving kids’ lives. I would be so happy if you could just help me spread the word about this amazing organization! As always, we are doing this all “For The Kids!”

Relay for Life is an overnight event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society. Unfortunately, we live in a world where nearly every one of us knows of someone who has had cancer. In my opinion, this is simply unacceptable. Our goal with Relay for Life is to create a world where cancer can’t claim another year of anyone’s life. To learn more about the event, check out http://www.relayumd.org/ . Again, I am happiest just spreading the word. But if you interested in donating, my fundraising page is http://main.acsevents.org/goto/smason1 . Let’s create a world with more birthdays.

We absolutely have the power to change the world. All we need is for individuals to come together for a good cause. Simply put, that is the goal of these two events. TerpThon and Relay for Life are just two of the numerous amazing causes out there right now. We have the power to save and change so many lives. I understand that not everyone can donate. But everyone can spread the word. Think about it. What if every person who reads this blog told three friends about these causes. Then those three told three others and so on. This is the concept of paying it forward. Imagine how the state of the world could improve if this caught on. I am just one individual trying to make this world a better place. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! Because in simply reading this post, you have already helped tremendously.

Thanks!

Peace. Love. Happiness.

Rumpus

2011-02-25T07:20:00.004-05:00

The scrapbooking is no longer a scrappy mess. It is now organized in the old tv cupboard. I love it.

Life has become a bit more hectic due to the medical saga so of course that means we are on the move.

When we came home we found the standing lamp on it's side. mmmm....me thinks the white creature in the picture was guilty for this stunt. Must've been quite a race and romp session while I was gone.

Obviously Mr. Bettis was in on the romp and race session and became just a bit over-excited. My GOOD ink pen as in the best ink pen one could ever own became his object of entertainment. *sigh* another one of MY things destroyed by Mr. B.

We had plans for the weekend but they were unexpectedly dashed. What's on your agenda?

Over the Moon

2011-02-16T01:57:00.005-05:00

Life has been a bit over the moon here of late. A lot to absorb and ponder........
2011 is coming in with a bang and the days seem to meld together. I'm on a holiday jet lag and hope this doesn't continue through out the year.

I'm not a huge fan of Valentine's Day but did take the time to make another batch of gobs with pink frosting. Yummy with a nice cold glass of milk or a cup of hot tea.

There has been a celebration. My grandmother turned 91 yrs old over the weekend. Three of our 4 children, spouses and our granddaughter arrived for the event. The 4th is in exam week at college but did make a birthday call in between hitting the books.
She had a wonderful time and enjoyed the visit with everyone. My grandmother is a strong woman with a wonderful sense of humor. She's a no nonsense person and tells 'it like it is' (mmm....kind of like 'yours' truly...lol)
She made us laugh more than once on this special day and I'm so glad she had a great celebration.
Happy Birthday Mom-mom.

Here We GOOOOO....

2011-02-06T16:26:00.004-05:00

Here we Goooooo!!!!!!

Both teams are good teams but this household is black and gold all the way.

Looking quite regal in his Steeler gear. There are no kerchiefs for the girls because Mr. Bettis thinks kerchiefs are perfect for dragging the girls down the hall (eyeroll here).

The Super Bowl menu: Crock pot chili, crescent weiners, pizza appetizers, buffalo chicken dip, chips, salsa, garlic deer bologna, cheese and of course baked gobs (or better known as whoopie pies) Steeler style.
Here we goooooo!!!!

Ice man

2011-02-01T13:31:00.008-05:00

Mr. Bettis and his owner slipped on the ice. Not together but with a similar outcome.
He injured his leg and was taken pulling and tugging to the vet on Saturday. Have I ever mentioned how horrible he is at the vet? Well if not take my word, he's AWFUL!
The car ride is a nightmare let alone his antics in the waiting room until....he sees our favorite vet. Dr. B is a Steelers fan so I think he has an admiration of Mr. Bettis beyond the average vet.
He tore a ligament and is on meds and bedrest. Yeah. Right. Try the bedrest thing with Mr. B (eyeroll here). Even Dr. B chuckled over keeping him calm because he made it clear Mr. B is an overactive dog (as if we didn't know that).

Mr. B's owner didn't fare any better and after much ta-do we headed to the dr's office an hour and half away. After cutting a shine at the dr's office, DH was transported by ambulance to the hospital. I can say 'cutting a shine' because my jangled nerves are calm now.
He's on a boatload of meds, a monitor and resting somewhat comfortably.

We didn't get home until midnight (after my parents made the trip to get us) and I'm exhausted.
I must leave with a bit of humor. We have two sons (both married) and two daughters. After the DH was pumped with pain meds, muscle relaxants and who knows what else he became a bit lethargic and proceeded to mumble something about our THREE daughters. Say what???? LOL Caused the nurse and I to have a good laugh.

Outta the Loop

2011-01-29T07:58:00.005-05:00

College semesters have begun for both daughters so we had a family game night last weekend.
Snacks, Wii and a good game of Hands and Foot made for a fun night.

The eldest DD preparing for a strike in Wii bowling. Notice the sweater? It's the Central Park Hoodie in Vanna's Choice Worsted. She really likes the style of the CPH and she places her order for a new one every year.

Youngest DD who is not happy with her last Wii golf swing.

Speaking of outta the loop, we've missed every snowstorm until last week. We were graced with almost a foot of snow. Looks like there's a BIG storm coming for Groundhog Day. We shall see given the weatherman's missed calls this year. I happen to be one who enjoys winter much more than summer. Not a fan of excessive heat, humidity or rain.

Been in a funk lately and the fresh snowfall made me smile :)

What kind of weather makes you smile?

A Snow Day

2011-01-26T16:01:00.006-05:00

The coldest day of the year we delivered the college DD safe and sound. We tried to help her put her stuff away but Miss OCD has her own way of putting stuff away.
It was rather uneventful and we were back on the road in no time.
We stopped to visit our youngest son and daughter-in-law on the way home and met their new addition. Please meet Super Diego. He's a rescue greyhound and without a doubt a very sweet dog. He has very warm friendly eyes and very quick to become your best friend.
Due to medical issues we spent the night and Super D (as our son calls him) slept in our room. We had a lovely visit and after a hearty breakfast we hit the road once again.

*sigh* Unfortunately when we arrived home we found the placemats were dug out of their keeping place on the baker's rack and thoroughly destroyed. There's only one dog who can reach these and yes it was Mr. Bettis. I do believe we interrupted the placemat party because they they were still quite 'wet'.

It's a snow day here today. The husband is home from work and the snow is piling up.
The weathermen missed this one but I must say they've been missing the snow predictions all year so it's nothing new. The farmer's almanac has been much more reliable.

It's very pretty and I'm enjoying the day. Chili in the crock pot and knitting on my needles. I'm off to enjoy.

Load 'em up...Move 'em out

2011-01-22T08:25:00.002-05:00

It's 10F outside this morning and that's with the sun shining on the thermometer. Brrrr....it's COLD. Today is moving day for the college DD. Somehow she's taking back more than she brought home for winter break.

Do you see Mr. Bettis inspecting the packing?

I have no idea where the last 5 weeks went but they flew. We had a lot of fun over that break; Family game nights, cooking, knitting, baking and of course the holidays.
Her dad's famous saying when loading up the kids (when they were younger) was 'load 'em up, move 'em out'. So here we go.....

I couldn't leave without posting a WIP. I've been wanting another pair of handknit gloves so when I missplaced mine I cast on for these.
Why is it when you're desperate for a handknitted item you can whip it out in no time? The first glove was knit in a day and I plan to finish the second one in the car today.
BTW: I found the original pair of gloves so now I'll have two pair :D. One happy knitter here.

Just when I think......

2011-01-14T09:07:00.005-05:00

Thanks to everyone for the well wishes for our daughter. The trip only produced more questions than answers and she will undergo more testing. *sigh*
The trip to the hospital was a blizzard nightmare and when the truck driving hubby was gripping the steering wheel and the girls were silent I knew it was serious. (couldn't tell anything by this blogger's sweaty palms...lol) There were white-outs and we crept at 25 mph most of the 75 mile trip. Instead of 1 hour 15 minute trip it took us over 2 1/2 hours. The return trip wasn't much better.

I did get a little knitting accomplished between 'braking' and gripping my own 'steering wheel' (aka the knitting needles). Keep in mind I'm the co-pilot ;).
I've been trying to find the right pattern for this yarn and I think I've found it, Hermione Socks. I can't find a link but if you're a ravelry fan you can find it in the pattern section.

We were gone 9 hours and apparently Mr. Bettis was bored. My snow boots are by the front door where they've been for over a month. No one bothered much less knew the boots were there however I found them on the kitchen floor minus buttons (and we have not found them so I'll let you guess where they went). The elastic button straps and velcro straps have been thorougly chewed. *sigh* Just when I think he's behaving he proves otherwise.

Disguised blessings

2011-01-11T11:16:00.004-05:00

Been absent for a little while. There have been many blessings in my life and when I don't choke up I'll blog about them but for now just know that I have the best friends in the world.

I've been quiet about a few things and hesitate to post too much but feel I should at least inform those who read this blog. Our eldest daughter has been dealing with serious medical issues for quite a while and after much testing we are heading to a University Hospital for further evaluation.

This picture is a repeat pic and forgive me for re-posting it but I absolutely love it. It describes our daughter to a tee. She's a laid back kind of gal and has an infectious personality. Quiet but full of little quips that make you laugh. Loves animals and as of this writing just called to tell me that she captured a stray dog and is transporting it to a new found home.

I love snow and hope we get a good snowstorm although it's not looking too favorable here. However that could be a blessing in disguise as we'll be in the car for several hours traveling to the hospital. I'm packing the knitting bag and a few snacks (gotta have snacks you know). I'm starting on Christmas gifts already. There have been quite a few gift requests from my crew and trust me, the list is long ;).

What are you knitting?

New Year Greetings

2010-12-31T19:42:00.003-05:00

I'm not a huge fan of the New Year holiday. Personally I think the song, Auld Lang Syne is one of the most depressing songs I've ever heard. I'm also not one for resolutions, I've made them in the past and by Jan 31 they're totally forgotten. But if I were so inclined to make any resolutions, I'd strive to be better organized and kinder to others. What if any resolutions are you making?I've been very blessed to have a loving family and true friends in my life. I wish for everyone to have a Blessed New Year.

Christmas Re-cap

2010-12-30T18:01:00.003-05:00

This was the best Christmas ever. It was a handmade holiday here and although there were a few unfinished gifts it was a complete success. There were leg warmers....

Sweaters.....

hats.....and so much more....

There was a letter from Santa inviting the 'kid' to continue her hard work and someday she may be asked to join his Astro Elves at the North Pole. We all know Santa depends on the Astro Elves for his once a year flight...right?? ;)

He knows she is studying astronomy so he gave her a special gift.
There were gifts left from Santa and we send special heartfelt thanks to him for his generosity. We believe in Santa Magic!

It was a special Christmas and I don't want the holidays to end this year. For a little while we could forget the struggles and bask in the warmth of family and the True Meaning of Christmas. Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas.

One More Sleep....

2010-12-24T14:52:00.007-05:00

Like a small child, I'm anxious for tomorrow morning. I refuse to re-visit this past year tonite (or even today with a very sick husband) but will instead focus on the True Meaning for this holiday. We have very few gifts and we're still struggling, however, just like the Whos down in Whoville of Dr. Seuss's classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas we will enjoy the day with family/friends in spite of it all.
I wish for everyone to have a very Merry Christmas and enjoy the Miracle.
"God Bless Us Everyone"

Two More Sleeps

2010-12-23T16:24:00.004-05:00

Two more sleeps till the Big Day and I'm still elbow deep in cookie dough. This makes two weeks worth of cookie baking. I'm all cookie-ed out. But we have tins and tins of cookies in the pantry. Today was the day for gingersnaps and the good ole standby sugar cookies.The youngest was here to help whip those babies on the cookie sheets.

Several sheets full of yummy goodies.

I am a cookie cutter collector. I have no idea why, I just like to collect cookie cutters (I also use them). Holiday and everyday cutters, doesn't matter I love 'em all. The last ones to jump in the cookie bowl are the teeny tiny cutters. Great for using up that last bit of dough.

We finished with an entire cookie sheet of bite size goodies. Wrapping is finished. Cookies are baked. Breakfast casserole will be done tomorrow. I'm missing something.......oh yeah....the unfinished knitting. Oh well, there's always next year :).

Three more sleeps....

2010-12-22T17:13:00.003-05:00

I haven't left blogland, just been busy. Elbow deep in cookie dough and knee deep in wrapping paper. Still finishing gifts and it appears there are three gifts that will be given on the needles. I hereby state ALL knitted gifts for next year will be finished by Dec 1st 2011. hrmph! (You may want to mark that on your calendar and remind me Dec 2nd 2011 when I'm moaning about unfinished gifts)
A finished hat gifted in the nick of time . This was for our granddaughter and her mom loved it. I also made some really cool crocheted food stuff and completely forgot to take pics.

Nine pans of homemade sweet rolls were also on my agenda. As if I didn't have enough to do.
Some down time was spent watching the daughters play Wii. The youngest is attempting to box.
Our eldest daughter having a grand time laughing at her sister's silly antics.

Time is running out and the big day will be over all too soon. As of this writing, the husband is complaining of a sore throat, chills etc. This blogger is in denial of her own scratchy throat and chills. Say it isn't so.........

A Fun Meme

2010-12-14T20:23:00.002-05:00

I read this at Chan's Place and enjoyed the meme so much I'm borrowing it.

1. Hot Chocolate or apple cider? Both!
2. Turkey or Ham? Turkey
. Do you get a fake or real-you-cut-it-yourself Christmas tree? Fake. Although I plan to have real next year.
4. Decorations on the outside of your house? Wreath, evergreen under the windows and lights along the roof
5. Snowball fights or sleddin’? Both!!!
6. Do you enjoy going downtown shopping? Not much of a shopper but I remember the fun of shopping downtown when I was a kid.
7. Favorite Christmas song? I have two faves White Christmas and Silent Night
8. How do you feel about Christmas movies?Love 'em especially the classics
9. When is it too early to start listening to Christmas music? Never too early
10. Stockings before or after presents? Before.
11. Go to someone else’s house or they come to you? Go, go, go, and I don’t like it! I love seeing the family but know all too soon we'll be home for the holiday
12. Do you read the Christmas Story? If so when? Christmas Eve before bed
13. What do you do after presents and dinner? Chatter with family
14. What is your favorite holiday smell? Sugar cookies and shortbread
15. Ice skating or walking around the mall? Skating. I’d rather have a beating than go to the mall.
16. Do you open a present or presents on Christmas Eve, or wait until Christmas day? Oh we wait until Santa has delivered the goodies so Christmas day it is
17. Favorite Christmas memory? I have two: One snowy Christmas evening, my dad pulled us on a sled down the middle of the road to my grandparent's farm.
The Christmas (I think I was 7) Santa left my kid size pink kitchen set and a new doll in a cradle
18. Favorite Part about winter? Snow and wearing all my handknits
19. Ever been kissed under mistletoe? mmmm.....can't remember ;)

Willy-nilly

2010-12-05T20:40:00.004-05:00

There's a willy-nilly kal happenin' on ravelry and there's a sock on my needles. I had every intention on working on them all day today but somehow I was distracted.

I was plugging along and decided to block/steam the box of knitted gifts. Happily steaming away until.....the iron konked. Now mind you, I am in complete denial on anymore hits in this household and that includes another broken appliance. Unplugging and re-plugging, checking the electric outlet, asking the hubby to check the breaker box etc and it refused (yes 'it' refused) to work. Hitting the iron on the ironing board probably did not help but there wasn't any heat or steam so it didn't matter one way or the other and frustration was in control. Keep in mind this little denial game lasted an hour. In the end the iron was still konked.

So the eldest daughter came to the rescue and said I could use her iron. Just as soon as it could be found in her boxes of stuff. For those who don't know, she just moved back home. An hour later and the 'new' iron was up and running. I became bored with that job so I moved onto the next.
Sewing perked my interest and I wanted to sew some pj pants for gifts. All well and good if I had elastic. This meant a trip to the fabric store. An 1 1/2 hour later and I was home with elastic and lost interest in sewing. That will wait until tomorrow...or the next day.....24 hours have passed and this is the progress of the socks that must be finished, wrapped and under the tree by Dec. 24. *sigh*

Then the hubby decided he wanted to make cinnamon hard tack. Sounds great, doesn't it? Except for some unknown reason the husband who can build a house and repair a car cannot function on his own in the kitchen. Which bag of sugar should he use? Do we have food coloring? Which cookbook has the best recipe? Where's the candy thermometer?

We searched for an hour trying to locate the candy thermometer. Correction. We searched for an hour looking for Mr. Gadget's handy dandy fancy schmancy candy thermometer. Needless to say, I've been (falsely) accused of 'hiding' his thermometer. Now just why would I hide a thermometer? I like candy too you know. So a trip to the market was in order (although they don't sell the fancy schmancy one). We now own the el cheapo one as Mr. Gadget calls it.

The day wasn't a complete bust, I do have some lovely cinnamon hardtack to show ;).

p.s. If you happen to see a couple of elves dressed in handknit sweaters please put them under house arrest and contact me immediately. The little rascals have some gifts to finish over here.

Slowing the Season

2010-12-02T05:55:00.004-05:00

This year has been tough in so many ways for this little household. We're taking the tough and turning them into blessings (not an easy task but we're doing our best). Due to unforeseen circumstances (medical saga and it's little games) there will be NO purchased gifts this year therefore changing the holiday dynamics in this house.

So, this year, I'm joining gMarie and others by taking the "Slowing the Season" pledge.

"Please join us in our effort to reduce stress, reduce our carbon footprint, really slow down and enjoy the holiday season this year and in years to come. Exchanging gifts isn’t a big part of holiday preparations. For me and my family, the holidays are not about how much you spend, how much you give or receive, but spending time with loved ones making memories.
In an effort to achieve this goal – I plan to do the following to the best of my ability:

~exchange gifts only with my immediate family
~give handmade gifts with meaning;
~give supplies to make a something that the recipient would enjoy;
~participate in free, local holiday events;
~buy from local artists whenever possible; and
~try to create one new family tradition.

We're just reclaiming the PEACE and JOY of the season.
If you care to join us in slowing the season - feel free to use my badge (or create your own) and add the pledge to your blog. Between now and Christmas share little ways you are reclaiming the Peace and Joy of the Season with you family."

I'm ad-libbing here:
There are a few friends on my gift list.
All of my gifts are handmade).
We have a lot of deep rooted traditions here so I had to give the new tradition a lot of thought. I called mom and we came up with a plan; we're attending Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with my 90 yr old grandmother at her church. Mom and I are taking cookies and tea to her home afterwards so the family can visit. She doesn't know it yet and she will be surprised and delighted.

In spite of the trials and tribulations this past year found necessary to bestow on this house, we are blessed. I wish for everyone to slow down, breathe in the Christmas Air and have a peaceful and blessed holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T07:29:00.002-05:00

Life has been a roller coaster (and still moving) this year and yet I'm counting my blessings. I have my little family who make me laugh in spite of it all, my very dear friends (and you know who you are) who are there no matter the 'storm damage,' and I have my Faith. We will celebrate this blessed day with my parents, grandmother, a family friend and our beautiful daughters.

I Wish Everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. ENJOY!

Package delivered

2010-11-24T06:43:00.004-05:00

Specs picked up Chem-girl at the college. I received a text saying as much at 4 pm. It read something like this, "the package has been picked up and will be delivered at approximately 7:30 pm."

Traffic was heavy leaving the city but they arrived safe and sound at 7:54 pm. Dinner was on the table when they arrived. Crock pot steak and gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls and a coffee cake for dessert. Home cookin' at it's finest as she said.

She's happy to be home and while Miss Molly doesn't appear to be thrilled, she's actually ecstatic to have her owner home.

The holiday is fast approaching and we will be quite busy in the next few days.
I'm up early to begin the holiday cooking. One of the little things in life that I do enjoy is early morning. Nothing like stepping outside in my pjs on a cold brisk morning to bask in the quiet.

I'm off to bake pumpkin pies and prepare the stuffing for TJ Turkey (he prefers to be 'dressed' you know ;).

Decorating in Style

2010-11-23T04:32:00.006-05:00

Life has been in the way of...well?...Life but we're muddling through in spite of it.
We're hard stock Appalachian folk so what's a gal to do but pull up the boot straps and start over (although me thinks the boots are hip length these days....*sigh*).

During a normal holiday year we decorate after Thanksgiving. We threw that to the wind and started the decorating marathon early. It's a mess but we're beginning to see the light(s). Look closely and you can see a certain cat in the picture. I missed getting the photo of Missy Prissy falling from the box that was teetering....*snicker*. Mr. Bettis didn't miss it though and promptly arrived for damage control and to play a quick game of chase the cat (eyeroll).

...can see clearly now

2010-11-19T10:30:00.004-05:00

Red sky in the morning, sailor's warning...and that's been the motto around here on a daily basis.
The sky belies the daily events around here but I must admit I like the picture anyway.

This is a rather small and insignificant mess in the scheme of Life. Miss Aurora occasionally gets into my yarn bags and carries yarn to an undetermined location. Unbeknownst to me this skein hit a load of unwashed laundry and hit the washing machine. It is now clean but totally destroyed and I'm hoping I have enough yarn to finish the project.
Mr. Bettis is off the hook on this one but the destroyed umbrella is another story.

It takes days to put up the Christmas tree. Hubby wanted a live tree but that's not happening this year and I know Chan will have something to say about that ;). Given our luck this year, I'm sure it's a wise thing to skip a live tree.

Miss Phoebe has attitude and she's not the least bit happy to move for the sake of decorating.

The eldest DD had a much needed eye appointment. Apparently when one fails the eye test miserably, glasses are made within an hour -_-.

She can see clearly now and looks so smart ;). The computer and cell phone have her undivided attention now that she can actually see to read.

We're gearing up for the holidays. Not too certain how they're going to fare but not much we can do about it. So here goes.....

When do you decorate?

There's no place like home...

2010-11-07T21:23:00.003-05:00

Busy is an understatement around here right now but time was on our side for some family time this weekend.
First up was the homecoming football game. Always a great time with friends and family. Chem-girl arrived safe and sound from her second home (college) to attend as an alumni.

Our home school won the game and so the festivities began.

Daughter #1 joined in the fun when work allowed. She's the one wrapped in the afghan because good ole mom wouldn't turn up the heat in order to save money ;).

By the way for the knitters out there, the afghan is the Rambling Rows by Cottage Creations. Excellent pattern and a fun knit (warm too). I can't seem to find the link but for the ravelers out there it's an easy find in the pattern section on Ravelry.
Time was found for a good game of Hands and Foot.

There was some girl knitting time and like a bunch of hens, we chattered and laughed while catching up on the family news. Cooking and baking produced chicken casserole, roast dinner, cookies and potato candy. Yum.

Chem-girl is back at school, DD #1 has a busy week and DH begins another week of work. As for me, it's a time to reflect and catch up on the never ending laundry and cleaning around here as well as some busy time with DD #1. We're looking forward to family time at Thanksgiving. Only 2 + more weeks.
I must also find time for gift knitting....or else put an ad in the paper for some knitting elves ;).

Eye Candy Treats

2010-11-02T06:26:00.004-05:00

Halloween came and went and somewhere along the line I missed it. Of course about the only thing we really miss are the kids' treat bags filled with candy so we can get drunk on chocolate :).

I'm late posting this new arrival of eye candy. The wind was blowing hard last week and look what blew into my mailbox, a lovely birthday gift from Jessi. Two skeins of her beautiful dyed yarn and as soon as I decide on a pattern it will be cast on. Also included, a cute set of knitted notions and labels for my handknits. There were two pencils but one is sharpened and already in use.

Forgive the glare, I just couldn't get a decent picture without it.

Also included were these adorable handmade stitch markers. Aren't they cute? I have a standing order if she ever re-opens her shop.

Thank you so much Jessi.

Dream a little dream.....

2010-10-26T21:57:00.003-05:00

It's been a roller coaster ride here and I'll spare details to the public.

I've been trying to focus on my passions, knitting and spinning, and while doing so I thought about why I turn to them when I'm stressed. For me, it's the soothing sound of the needles, click, click click. The feel of the soft wool through my fingers. The whirl of the wheel and how amazing it is (even in this day and age) to produce a lovely skein of yarn no matter how imperfect.

In the meantime when life hands me lemons I will turn to dreamsicle ice cream ;).

What do you focus on when stressed? Why?

He's on the Run

2010-10-21T20:41:00.002-05:00

Mr. Bettis has a problem, he sprained his right foot. Don't even ask how 'cos I have no idea.

He has pills that he mistakes for treats (eyeroll here). He's also on bedrest....uh...yeah...try that one. As the saying goes around here, "ain't never gonna happen."

All was fine until the squirrel climbed the tree in the backyard and the neighbor's dog 'jumped bail' (as we call it) and entered Mr. B's domain. Bedrest went out the window and the big oaf was racing and ripping through our yard while I'm yelling like a banshee warrior. I'm sure it's quite entertaining for anyone within earshot. On the other hand, they're probably accustomed to it.
Mr. B will be up to his usual antics in no time flat *sigh*.

Apples to apples

2010-10-18T08:10:00.002-05:00

I received a few things on Saturday but the hubby confiscated them until yesterday so I could open them on my birthday.
First up this hilarious card from G. Oh my gosh, I laughed out loud when I pulled the card from the envelope.

Thank you Gaylen for the hearty laugh and birthday wishes :D.

Next up was a thoughtful and delightful gift from Grace. A comical book of knitting that is sure to bring a smile and another good laugh.
And look at the little gnome. I've wanted to knit one of these for awhile but I've never gotten around to getting one finished.
I've dubbed him, Mr. Apple due to his clothing choice and the apples that accompanied him. Thank you Grace. He is perched on the antique cookstove keeping watch.

Let Me Eat Cake

2010-10-17T14:44:00.006-05:00

It's my birthday :D.
My eldest daughter gave this gift to me, a trifle dish and the ingredients to make my own birthday dessert.
I've wanted an excuse to make this dessert for a long time so here it is....

Mocha Tiramisu. It's resting in the fridge right now.
Thank you DD, Love ya!

Kaput

2010-10-16T08:40:00.004-05:00

It's a beautiful fall day today and I had every intention on enjoying it. However Mr. Murphy (as in Murphy's Law) had another idea.

DH threw a load in the washer, left only to return to the clothes soaking wet. What?? So he tried the spin cycle again. Nothing. Next thing I knew there was smoke. "Houston? We have a problem. Shut down."

So here it is, a wet load of laundry and I'm debating on wringing it by hand as my ancestors did or slamming the lid and saying the heck with it all. I'm opting for the LOUD SLAM! hrmph!

Not to say too much here but due to the last 2 yrs of a dying economy the money pig residing at this house starved to death so there's no crystal ball sighting of a new washer. Add in the ongoing medical saga...*sigh* and Life just continues to spiral downward.

A definite bright spot is a 'kid' who remembers my birthday, snags a card from the card drawer before she leaves for college and sends it well in advance of the actual birthday.

The college DD wrote a beautiful message and included a 'coupon' for a homemade meal and handmade ring markers when she gets home. I can't wait :D. Thank you DD, love ya!

Let the Party Begin

2010-10-14T11:18:00.007-05:00

My birthday hasn't arrived yet however that hasn't stopped friends and family from sending packages and cards :D. Unlike me who's still playing catch-up with the Post Office.

I'll begin with Chan's package that arrived today. Mr. Bettis was sniffing the box before I had it opened. How did he know there was something for him?

Sure enough there was something, scrumptous cookies just for the gang. They were begging and if I could've juggled the camera and the treats there would've been pics.

I gave them the treats so I could open the rest of the package in peace (just like kids you know). A beautiful...correction...drop-dead gorgeous skein of Creatively Dyed yarn named for my hometown. Red, purple, blue and of course PANK, how perfect is that? This is begging to be cast on and I'm concerned I won't allow it time to ferment with the rest of the stash...LOL

A bag of Lindnor Truffles Halloween treats was included although Mr. Bettis thought they also belonged to him. See his nose? I had a tough time getting him away from the candy so I could take the picture.
Lindnor Truffles are my favorite candy ever!!

About the card; I was on the phone with my mother (a Basset Hound care-taker) and when I opened the card I laughed so hard I was crying.

This is so perfect from Chan, the Knight and the Girls. Thank you so much for the wonderful gifts. Sending pooch hugs and kisses (and my own hugs) to You and the Crew.

More to come tomorrow.

A Birthday Son

2010-10-13T12:30:00.008-05:00

Thirty-seven years ago today, my eldest son was placed into my arms and it was love at first sight. We grew up together through his childhood and somehow we survived the teen years ;).
Football, baseball, swim meets and band occupied our years. The years flew by and now he is a husband and father.
To My Son-You are loved because of the little boy you were, the man you've become and the son you will always be.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON! We Love You.

My son and his daughter last year

P.S. I know you appreciated my attempt to sing the Happy Birthday song early this morning. Hope it stays with you all day ;).

A dance, a frog and a flamingo

2010-10-04T16:31:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile since I posted anything about 'The Kid" so I'll give a little update.

She attended a Garba dance with some of her dorm friends. One of her friends was kind enough to lend her a beautiful traditional dress. The dorm floor was bustling as they got ready for their "prom" as they called it.
She called later to tell us how much she enjoyed the evening event.

Her GPA qualified for her induction into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars so of course we attended the ceremony on Sunday afternoon. It was a short nice ceremony which gave a little more visiting time.
She insisted on a pose with Jim Henson and Kermit on campus after the ceremony. She hasn't been off campus for 4 weeks and it will be another 5 weeks until we can get her home. We took her for a stroll in a local mall and re-stocked her snack supply.

Our conservative thinker in her funky cozy 60's style room. Ya gotta love those flamingo lights....LOL

I do have a few finished knitting projects but they're for another post.

Friends & Fiber

2010-09-25T06:32:00.004-05:00

Sipping my coffee anxiously waiting to leave for a fiber festival. Chan will be there and although I've talked to Anita on the phone this will be my first meet-up with her.
I am so excited and can hardly wait.

I'll leave you with a small sample of finished knitting. An Annis from Knitty only in mini form. It only took a day to make this little baby and I love it. There will be more on the needles.

I'm off here now to have some fun and for the rest of my friends who couldn't make it, I'll be thinking of you. Maybe next year?

p.s. Mr. Bettis's attorney is hereby on notice just in case he can't behave. Since you can't be here to meet up with us Jessi, keep an ear out for a frantic BARK! ;)

Trick or treats

2010-09-23T07:02:00.005-05:00

It's a good thing I have friends. I'm a bit of a scatter brain these days and this post has been a long time in coming. Thanks Nic ;).

A while back we entered a contest on Lapdog Creations blog and we WON! Bright Bites dental dog treats were the prize.

Mr. Bettis & Gang were sniffing the box before I even opened it. Notice he's licking his chops and I haven't opened the bags yet. I've never seen the gang so excited over a box.
Bright Bites included a large dog collar (which was put on Mr. B immediately) and a book of 101 dog tricks. I had to laugh because teaching Mr. B tricks is a feat in and of itself but we're going to try. A lovely handwritten note was also enclosed.

Miss Gypsy pretending she's not really interested but she had her snout in there right before I snapped this one.

They LOVED the treats. Thank you Nic and fur-babies and a special thank you to Bright Bites for the fantastic product and extra goodies.

Miss Molly truly loved the treat. She's a bit pouty these days. Her owner is in college and she spends her days with her favorite toy and trying her best to keep Mr. Bettis in line *sigh*. Sometimes it's a lo-o-ong day around here.

A new do

2010-09-15T20:23:00.004-05:00

I was in need of a haircut. Correction. I was in desperate need of a haircut. I kept putting it off (like I do with most things) until I couldn't stand it.
I love the 1940's styles but I trust my hairdresser to do what's best with my hair, facial lines and age (of course).
She did an awesome job. We're waiting for a bit more length but after I went home and took a good look at this style, I'm afraid it's a keeper. I even received a nice compliment from the DH.
Usually after a haircut I ask if he notices anything different and after his failed attempts at "...is that a new top? new hair color?" he finally guesses correctly and then mumbles a feeble, "oh that's nice." This time was different.
Thanks Laura, you're the best.

My sock knitting mojo has returned. Feeling the need of knitting satisfaction, I grabbed the container of scrap sock yarn and cast on. These babies were so fascinating and fun I couldn't put them down. They were finished in 4 days! I think that's a record for me. I have no idea why it is so fulfilling for me to make something from scraps. Probably my frugal upbringing.
The DD quickly put her mark on them for Christmas. Speaking of the C word, I need to get those elves down here pronto! There are gifts to be finished.

Let's Roll........

2010-09-10T21:58:00.003-05:00

May we never forget the heroes and those who died in a terrorist act 9 years ago. This will remain a wordless post while you reflect where you were and what you were doing when you first heard or saw these attacks on our land. I know I'll never forget.
May God Bless America!

Into the Nook II

2010-09-07T21:04:00.006-05:00

I'm hooked on the DD's Nook. We bonded then had to go our seperate ways when the Nook headed off to college. Hope it's not too stressful, it may have to come here for an extended visit.

While the Nook was here, it's owner decided it needed a home so I whipped up a sleeping bag. It has a soft flannel lining and fleece between the lining and outer fabric. I put plastic canvas between the outer fabric and the fleece for stability and to protect the screen.

A button loop closure and contrast binding complete the Nook Look.

The Nook's owner was thrilled with the new sleeping bag and is now requesting a wardrobe of sleeping bags.

sshhhh......the Nook is sleeping.......

Into the Nook

2010-09-04T08:21:00.005-05:00

Hubby left after work for the 2 1/2 drive to pick up the college DD for the holiday. On the way home they stopped at a Barnes and Noble so she could check out the Nook. She saved her hard earned money this summer to pay for her textbooks etc and she had a little set aside in case she could purchase something for herself.
She researched so much I wondered if ereaders would be obsolete before she made the purchase.
I could hardly wait for her to get home to play with the new toy. Oh yeah, I wanted to see her too ;).
After a list of rules i.e. no sticky fingers, fingerprints, no drinks etc, I was permitted to play with it. mmm....Role reversal, maybe?
I told her she could leave it here when she goes back to school on Monday. After all, she has SO much studying to do and certainly won't have time for a relaxed read.

This little baby is awesome. I want one. I think I need to get some chickens so I have egg money to set aside.

The Move

2010-08-29T07:35:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was spent on the road to move the college DD into her dorm to begin another year.
Thank goodness the heat and humidity held off for another day (unlike last year when we moved her into the unairconditioned 8th floor).

My parents offered to drive their van and it's a good thing, she took everything but my kitchen sink.
Last year she shared a triple room which was very cramped. Although she and her roommates did the best they could it was tight quarters.
This year she shares a double and has one of the largest rooms on her floor. It's perfect because she spends a lot of time studying in her room and by the time she was finished decorating it had a homey atmosphere.

She's a hop skip and a jump to the diner which is another plus. The stadium is behind her back door which seemed to be a bigger plus to her than the diner ;). She's a huge sports fan.
Unpacking was smooth and efficient. We took her to a local diner for a late lunch and then said our goodbyes *sniff*. (Don't tell her, but I'm gonna miss this kid)

She called last evening and was spending her time watching a movie and knitting. That's my kid.....LOL

Why?

2010-08-25T19:57:00.006-05:00

Guess who I found taking an afternoon nap in the clothes basket?

I have taken notice our dear felines never sleep on dirty clothes. They always choose the baskets of clean clothing and I want to know why?

ggrrr......

Grounded!

2010-08-20T19:26:00.007-05:00

It's been a rough week. So what is a disabled knitter to do when she finds a beautiful pattern on ravelry and the yarn is downstairs in the stash room?
Answer: Find a way to get down there to get what I obviously needed.
Hubby was on the computer in the living room totally oblivious and the youngest daughter was at work. Those two are like prison guards, trust me, so if they're busy I'm F-R-E-E!

Charlie and Chuckie crutch and I went for a nonchalant stroll down the hall and quietly opened the basement door. Took me a moment to figure out how I was going to get down there but my little mind quickly had a solution, sit and scoot on the steps. Woo-Hoo! I had a plan.

I made it to the stash room, grabbing an empty yarn tote I quickly filled it. Suddenly I heard the youngest daughter upstairs talking. WHAT? She wasn't to be home for another hour!
I hobbled over to the stairs in a bit of a panic. Seriously? Why was I in a panic? I'm an adult and can do what I want. hrmph!

Now here's where I didn't think my plan through from beginning to end. How do I get up the stairs? If I exit the back door and come into the kitchen I'm doomed. The family will know I've been downstairs. I hung the bag of yarn on Charlie (or was it Chuckie?) and leaned on the two of them to climb the 14 steps. Took a bit of maneuvering but we made it to the top. Just as I opened the door who was standing there?
The college daughter. Hands on her hips and asking the inevitable question, "just what do you think you're doing? Da-a-ad? Mom was downstairs."
Tattletale!

So I'm grounded. I think there's been a bit of a role reversal around here and that will be corrected immediately :).
At least I have the yarn I wanted, various colors of wool to knit this scarf. I'm making great progress but you should see my knitting corner in the living room.
In the meantime, I'm content with this project....well...at least for awhile ;).

Tonite I'm indulging in a bowl of mint chocolate chip ice cream. Mint chocolate chip and just plain ole chocolate chip ice cream are my favorite flavors.
What's your favorite ice cream flavor?

He forgot?

2010-08-15T12:48:00.004-05:00

I got out of the house! woo-hoo! We went to walley world to get the prescription filled.
The DH parked me, chuck and charlie crutches on a bench by the pharmacy while he waited in a very long line. As he neared the register he turned to me and mouthed the words, 'when is your birthday?' Keep in mind that I was 'parked' approximately 10+ feet from where he stood. I quietly told him the date. The DH has a hearing problem which he adamently denies but trust me, he has one.

He then leaned forward and said, "huh?" I told him once again thinking he could also read lips. Obviously not.
He asked one more time and this time I said the date loud and clear omitting the year which I wasn't about to say.
He asked, "what year?" and I promptly told him, "two years from your's" and he loudly confirmed it by stating the year.
He then turned and said, "are you sure? I thought your birthday was on the __th."

Dear husband, I do believe I know my own birthday.
I'm a bit suprised he didn't go to the front service desk and have it broadcast on the pa system.
My DH had no idea the snickers coming from the line after all he was on a mission. Sometimes I just have to laugh.

I couldn't allow this post without a little color. This was dyed before the fall.

It's getting hot and humid here again and I've cast on more projects.

Wonder how Chuck and Charlie Crutch would feel about knitted coverings? :D

Anyone remember?

2010-08-14T09:53:00.003-05:00

It's been a long 36 hours but who's timing? LOL
I have exhausted the knitting/spindle spinning/reading and nap time. So what does one do? Well, dig around for another craft.
I forgot I had these little looms. Remember when these were a kid's craft? They're a bit similar to the pot holder loom. Remember making those? I made quite a few for my mother and grandmothers while growing up.
This is my 4 x 4 loom.

This is a 2 x 4 loom and I'm making all of these black to go between the squares.

A few finished squares. I'm on a roll.

The lighting certainly doesn't do justice with the picture but I did a lay-out to see if this is how I want the finished project.

It's going to be a blanket. Yes I know. This makes how many afghan/blankets on the go? I will get them finished sometime in my lifespan ;). At least I have something different to work on for awhile.

Come to think of it....wonder where that potholder loom is hiding....LOL

Oh Fer Cryin' Outloud

2010-08-12T23:07:00.005-05:00

Didn't I say back in March that I was done with 2010? I believe I did. There has been a bit more 'excitement' if that's what one chooses to call it.
I fell up the stairs last evening. Yes, I said UP. When one has drop foot and forgets to watch that the entire foot is lifted to be plunked on the step one falls up or down. In this case it was up. I slammed the right side of my body (mainly the bum leg) on the remaining stairs. Not a good thing.
When I lifted my head I was met with Mr. B's warm pant and a nice s-l-u-r-p of the tongue -_-

The hubby arrived home shortly thereafter. Since the fall involved the bum leg and it was swelling and turning black and blue we headed for x-rays. Thankfully nothing is broken however I'm in an immobile knee splint and crutches for the next 2 weeks. I will be heading to the orthopedic and an MRI. They found 'other stuff' that I won't even try to explain on here.
Could've been much worse so we'll just grin and bear it. What else can we do? LOL

Mr. B found my sunglasses while we were gone over the weekend. Guess he needed a pair of shades.
Anyway he's off the hook for now because he stood by me on the stairs after I fell until I crawled to the top.
So his attorney can file his good behavior for now. She may need it later for his ongoing case.

I know what would make me feel better....chocolate :D.

Now to get chuck and charlie crutch to cooperate and help me get to the kitchen. We have never been really good friends and it seems as though we spend a lot of time discussing how we're going to maneuver.

Have I mentioned I'm not a good patient? Oh yeah. Think I have ;).

A Wee Birthday

2010-08-11T18:28:00.007-05:00

We had a very important event to attend over the weekend, our granddaughter's 1st birthday. The year has flown and we can't believe how much she has grown. I am cautious to show her beautiful smiling face on this public domain but trust me, she's a beauty.

Layers of tulle were measured, cut and made into a tutu for her big day. You can't see it but the onesie has the #1 and her name embrodiered on the front. I made a pair of bloomers and there are bows on the legs and a cupcake embrodiered on the backside. A matching bow completed the ensemble.

I don't think I've ever seen our son and DIL so happy as they were on her birthday. We had a good visit with them and we're looking forward to another visit soon.

I skipped the trip to Costco for birthday supplies and chose to baby-sit instead. Much more fun, you know.

Little MC crawled to the kitchen and this is where I found her.

Since I'm a grandmother I opted for the camera to get some really good shots. Hey! That's what grandmothers are for, camera shots.....LOL

She is a very happy baby and an absolute delight. We love her to pieces.

On another note, Chan's blog has quite a few posts about the Nook. The college DD has been looking to purchase one and now I think I need one. I believe I would read more since getting to the library is a task. Her blog posts have successfully convinced me to plunk pennies into the piggy bank. She's such an enabler but ssshhhh.....don't tell her :).

Goodies Galore

2010-08-04T15:14:00.006-05:00

I'm trying to win at the game of procrastination and thinking it's a no win situation. I received this box of goodies from Chan a week ago. A beautiful merino/silk roving aptly named Gypsy after my own little Gypsy. I love the colorway and it's from all my friends who sent the e-spinner to come live with me. Thank you all so very much. Miss Victoria Vespera and I will enjoy the spin.

Also in the box of goodies were scrapbooking stamps, instruction booklets, a skein of Ella Rae silk sock yarn and a book, The Mayflower.

Dearest Chan, you have succeeded in keeping me occupied. Housework has gone to the way-side and I'm knitting, spinning and now reading. Thank you, Dear Friend.

Of course there were goodies from Chan and the girl gang.
Miss Gypsy sniffing inside the box. She knows there are goodies for her in there.

I set the bag of cookie treats on the chest and Mr. Bettis could barely resist but he did. Because of his good behavior he was rewarded with a special treat. *sigh* Of course, he has no idea why he was rewarded but he was licking his chops and wagging his tail.
He and the gang send paw shakes to Sissy, Gretchen and of course their owners for including something for them in the goodie box.

I've been eyeing hackles for quite some time. They're a bit pricey and I would rather try one before buying. My dad made this hackle and presented it to me last evening.

Needless to say I've been playing. It works fine for me and I'm happy with it. The spinning DD is eyeing the hackle and the wool. I seriously need to padlock the wool stash room.

It's hot and humid again. Is it fall yet?

Party Time

2010-08-02T07:34:00.007-05:00

There was a party in the house yesterday. It was our youngest DD's birthday. Our last year with a teen-ager.
She always requests a homemade cake for her birthday and this year she requested a Red Velvet Cake with cream cheese frosting. Putting frosting on a two layer cake has never been something I have accomplished particularly with cream cheese frosting but it was good in spite of the appearance.

A handmade Teddy Bear has been on her want list for quite some time. She's trying to explain the size of the bear she wants.

Born on August 1, 2010 Miss Toffit sized up to 5 1/2 inches and is a fully jointed little bear. She carries her new owner's heart close to her own. The Birthday Girl loved her.

This kid of mine must've come from the 60's era. She's a conservative thinker but a 60's dresser. Peace signs and tie dye everything are favorites. I leave nothing white around the house or it ends up in the dye pot.
A peace sign scarf will be her trademark clothing this year.

She has been begging for spinning supplies.
Her dad made a spindle and I made a spindle bag and carded some batts for her new hobby.
She took to spinning like a duck takes to water and is requesting wool in her college packages. I'm padlocking my wool room....LOL

Her grandparents gave her a DVD set of The Universe and several reading books. It was a lovely birthday celebration and I don't know where the years have gone.
Happy Birthday kiddo! We Love You!

How many times.....

2010-07-30T08:07:00.005-05:00

Ms. Summer's hot flash resulted in this blogger playing a game of procrastination. I have so much to post on the blog and I need to take some photos. So bear with me during my game of procrastination.
Speaking of bears.....this is a friend in progress. I made teddy bears for many years and recently reconnected with the craft.
This little one is for a birthday celebration that is fast approaching. sshhh-it's a secret.

How many times have I told Mr. Bettis, "no more jumping on the couch?"
I caught him in the act of bouncing and romping on the furniture! The moment he saw me, he laid down. The 140 lb oaf thinks he is small like his 8 lb sister, Gypsy. He is too big to romp on the furniture but try explaining that to him. I'm going to purchase the book, No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed and replace the words with Mr. Bettis and couch.

He is having way too much fun in the cooler temps that have finally reached our area. By cooler I mean temps in the upper 80's F. So far this morning he has let himself out the door at least 10 times to bark at the neighbor's dogs, the rabbit and the possum.
It's gonna be a lo-o-ong day.

It's a Parasite

2010-07-28T18:28:00.004-05:00

Our youngest son is a talented artist. He is a graduate of MICA, founded in 1826—the oldest continuously degree-granting college of art in the nation. It seems only yesterday that his artwork was selected for local art exhibits. His work was chosen for many years beginning when he was 7 yrs old. We were and are very proud of his many accomplishments.

He designed some artwork and decided to publish it on a line of clothing and other merchandise. He recently visited here and we had the pleasure to watch as he created the artwork. While browsing in the store take note of the Bomber shirt and you'll see our son :).

The store is an online shop. So go ahead and browse by clicking on the shop link or the store front on the upper right of this blog.

Christmas in July

2010-07-23T19:38:00.007-05:00

There's more than one way to beat the heat. Since the a/c is on the blink and I'm water logged from the swimming pool, the college DD and I came up with a plan to celebrate Christmas in July.
We dug out the Christmas DVDs and our favorite movie White Christmas was first on the list.
Instead of homemade cookies and hot chocolate we had mint chocolate chip ice cream and fresh squeezed lemonade.

Christmas certainly cannot commence without a tree and decorations so the silver tinsel tree and colored ornaments came out of the box. There weren't any lights since no one volunteered to go to the attic in this heat to get them.
Of course there must be presents and we agreed they had to be homemade.

DD played Santa and distributed the gifts.
She made a print of the lyrics of a favorite song from Celtic Thunder for her dad.

For me, she made this plaque. It spells family in Cherokee. She embroidered the letters and flowers on the fabric background and it's mounted on an old picture frame.

I knitted a hat for her and here she is playing a goof with it. She also received a red and silver glitzy handsewn scarf.

Our eldest DD was at work but there's a handmade gift under the tree for her.

Instead of ending the day with a sled ride we'll end with a midnite dip in the swimming pool.
I think this 'holiday' will become a tradition in this household. It certainly helped to take our minds off the oppressing heat and humidity for a little while.

Here comes the Sun

2010-07-22T19:44:00.003-05:00

It's hot. It's humid. And I'm sweltering. This is one time Mr. Bettis and I are in agreement, it's too hot to resume our normal activities. For him it's barking at the wildlife and for me, it's knitting/scrapbooking/sewing. I'm trying to stay cool which is not an easy task, that's for certain. The central air conditioner is on the blink. Thank goodness for the pool.
In the meantime I'm doing some mindless knitting because I can't even think clearly in this heat.

How are you surviving the heat and humidity?

Victor/Victoria

2010-07-15T07:56:00.004-05:00

The e-spinner and I have become best friends. It's a she and her name is Victoria Vespera. She was named Victoria because my wonderful friends helped to overcome my disability in order to enjoy something I love, so victory it is.
Victoria and I spun some BFL roving I had laying around. A navajo plied worsted weight with a generous 250 yds. I still have a bit of the roving and will spin it to match.

My apologies to ravelry stalkers for the following post.
I carded some corriedale fleece with a small batch of alpaca and spun it on my Kundert spindle.

When finished I had approximately 500+ yards of a singles.
It grew up to be a Swallowtail shawl. Since there was so much yardage I added a few more repeats to the main part of the pattern as well as the edging.

It is unbelievably soft and I love it. I must admit (rather sheepishly, no pun intended)that I am so proud of this project I could bust at the seams.
It is drapped over an antique quilt rack in the bedroom and I gently touch it every time I pass the rack. From start to finish I think this project is my most accomplished project since I started knitting way back when at the ripe age of 9 yrs. Trust me, it's been a long time.

What do you think is your most accomplished project?

Playing catch up

2010-07-11T07:29:00.004-05:00

The rain mentioned in the previous post gave way to less humidity. Whew! I seriously thought I was going to melt. Poor Mr. B & Co. had the same sentiment.
Since lower humidity has arrived, I'm playing catch up on blog reading and posting.
An email pal was de-stashing fiber so she sent a box of fiber goodies my way.

A few of these samples are a new spinning experience for me and I can't wait to try them.
Finn and Llama as well as a nice bag of Romney.
Thank you, Beth for thinking of me in your de-stashing process.
I can't wait to spin these fluffy goodies.

p.s. My sock knitting mojo was on hiatus during the heat but has returned. Pictures coming soon.