I am alive

Hey,

I missed blogging, but life called and I had to reenter the real world, you know, kids, husband, work, and bills (damn it). I made a pact with myself that I would not blog at work, can you believe that!! That means I will have to work, hell who would of thunk that. Sike, bossman (just in case your reading). My knitting was taking over my world and something had to give. However, something knitty did happen to me this past week - Friday to be exact.

Ravelry

Yup. I am a member..... Really.....I am. But, guess what. I don't have too much to say. I love the layout, nice and clean; and the fact that your blog/flickr and all that jazz. That is neat, I must say and you can IM as well. um yeah. NEXT.

Clapotis #3 Ug-i-lee or Pretty?

I am happy it took me awhile to write about the Ugilee Clapotis. I really didn't like it at first. But now that time has gone by I likey!!! I thought that the colors were off and that I would only be able to wear it during the winter with my white coat. But guess what? I like it alot (Britsh Accent please!!) Love it. Lorna Lace Lions & Lambs was well worth it!!! Especially since I got it half off. Without further ado - I now present to you Pretty Clapotis formally Ugilee Clapotis.

Summer Swapper Knitalong with Knittinghelp.

My secret pal was papergirl and she was fun to chat it up with. So, the second part of the swap was to knit something for our partner and I decided to knit something that I never knit before. Here is the set. The pattern called for Rowan DK Handknit yarn 100% cotton. My partner said she wanted orange and boy did she get what she asked for. However, this yarn was really harsh to the hands, but once it was knit up, it was pretty soft.

Okay, peeps. I am sorry for the misspelled words and runon sentence and all the other bad grammar. But it has been so long since I had FO. Blog with yah tomorrow (hopefully)!!

Hey

Hey peeps,

Guess who started exercising today? Me. Again, you say? Yup. How long will it last, you say? Umm who knows. I always start off gung ho and than if I sprain something or have to stop, I will gradually quit. Hopefully, not this time....I know, I know, time will tell.

However, I have partners now, yup!!! Me!!! AND hold your breathe....a group of girls (women). My mom will be so proud of me. I have never been the one with a whole bunch of giggling girls, I got a long with the men folk a lot better. I didn't have time for the back biting, he said, she said shiznick!! I know what a man wants, he ain't getting it, but at least his cards are on the table. Women?!? Should I say more. Y'all feel me out there.

Anywho, some ladies in my Homeowners Association sent out a email on the listserv and asked did anyone want to start running in the morning 5:30 to be exact and this morning 4 women in their early 30's got up in the early a.m. and speed walked around the neighborhood. Excellent.

Tomorrow, we will do some type of program where we walk one minute and run three minutes or something like that. I will let you know how that goes, or better yet if you don't hear from me in a week or two send our a search team.

Knitting: I know, I need to put up pictures of the clap, I have put starsky to the side because I am completing my spa gift for my secret summer pal. I am doing the eye mask.

Until we meet again.

Blessings: What a difference a year makes...

I am truly blessed. Last year around this time, I went on a much needed vacation to the mountains with the husband and we stayed at Wintergreen Resorts a beautiful place (so much so we went back for hubby bday). We enjoyed ourselves (**blushing, smiling** oh boy!)...until we got home. The condo was flooded and we couldn't stay there because the floor needed to be replaced and there were other problems (drama). Our landlord was okay, he assured us that he will fix everything and all that, we had to throw away our dining room table and chairs, sofa and more items that could be replaced. It took a month to get the floor and other items fixed - why - because the landlord is cheap and he wanted to do it his self.

We moved in with the MIL and to be honest we had a damn good time, but during this time I felt soooo very out of control. She loved the company because she just lost her husband a year ago so she was happy to have movement in the house. Again, we had space, food and good company however, it was not home. I couldn't walk around buttnaked, and I damn sure was not going to do the do in her house (a sistah was seriously stressed).

I went from having a romantic weekend to my life being turned upside down. Literally. Thanks goodness we have been planning to buy our first home for a couple years and we were waiting until January 2007 to start looking for homes. We figured the market would go back to being a buyers market by than. Well, we had to move that plan up, because there was no way I was NOT going to have control over my life again.

Also, during this time we did not have a car. Since we live in the city we did not need one, we used public transportation and if we went out of the city (always) we used his uncle and aunt's car who lived in the houses across from us, about a block away (thank goodness for family). So, we were not in a rush to own one. Well, guess what? We needed a car now because his mom lived in Maryland and it was too far for us to use public transportation, it would have taken too long to take the kids to their summer camp, and going to work. We sprent crazy money on renting cars, except when I got deals (thanks Priceline). We couldn't use credit during this time because we were trying to get the house.

I am thankful that we had a place to lay our heads and for family. Believe it or not I am also thankful for the experience because I would have waited and may have missed out on our home.

Anyway, one year later. We have our home and our car !!! I (we) are truly blessed.

Let's Catch UP!!

Hey peeps,

What's up?? I have so much to tell you - so, here goes.

Vacation: Myrtle Beach was great. I hope to put up pictures later.

To begin with, I lost my voice and could not talk for the first few days. It was hard not to talk, but thank goodness for insurance, called Kaiser and they gave me the hookup. So, we arrived to our condo and it was beautiful, except it was on the 3rd floor, which meant we had to carry everything (and ourselves) up 43 stairs (yes, I counted and yes I hid.. hell that's what you have kids for). But, it was worth it. It was a 3 bdrm 2 bath loft condo. Really nice. A nice screened in porch (have to have when I go down South, the mosquitoes and all the other flying creatures don't play), indoor/outdoor pool and jacuzzi and private access to the beach. A really nice place.

We enjoyed ourselves in South Cakalaki, we did so many things. Let me start off by saying that Ripley's has a monopoly at Myrtle Beach. We went to the Ripley's Haunted Adventure, 3D Thrill Ride and the Aquarium. I did not do the Haunted House (uh...doc said I need to rest my voice), so I stayed outside. They did another haunted house, Nightmare Haunted House, a block away from the Ripley one and everyone said that one was much scarier. I was not going in that even if I could talk. Why do you say? They had a damn warning sign up: Asthma, heart problems, all types of stuff. Not gonna do it...no sir!! Laser tag was fun it was my first time and I sucked, I think they were trying to trade me to the other team, but who cares. We also went to a alligator park Alligator Adventure. Boring, but okay. we got to see the alligator eat and I saw the ugliest - yet prettiest thing. A albino alligator - all white or yellowish, the skin, teeth and eyes. Have to see it. We watched them feed the alligators which was the best part. Oh, and we saw this ugly thing called a bearcat. I personally think bears (not that I would hug one) and cats are cute, but this thing was not. We only went to this place because the other family wanted to go, my kids said hell to the naw (not really, they wouldn't have any teeth), so they stayed home. They were smart, BORING.

The hubby and my godsister husband went to the driving range to hit a couple golf balls or whatever they do. We went to to the beach (twice). Sand it not user friendly to black hair, especially when your hair is braided.

The fourth was great, one of the ladies at the pool told us that the best place to see fire works was on our back porch so we stayed their and she was right. I am glad we listened to her.

Oh, and we definitely went shopping. Actually, I think we went shopping 50% of the time we were there. I got a new bag (love her), but I will tell you more about that later when I can take pics of the new addition to the family.

The food was great. Me and my godsister did not cook while we were on vacation. We ate out and we found this great seafood buffet. Calabash. One word. Delicious. Everything. I am a big time food critic and I shocked everyone when I said I loved the place. I mean, it was just awesome. The other places we ate at where chains and nothing out of the ordinary to write about. But, I definitely got my tea, anytime I go down South, I have to get my tea. My mom makes great tea and so do I, but it is hard to find great ice tea at home.

Okay, I told you that the husband got a Navigation system, well my godsister husband got one too and they are really ridiculous with it. They have the exact same one, they didn't know it but they do. So, while we were driving down south they were given two different ways to go (oh BTW, this is not our first time going to Myrtle Beach, so hubby knows how to get there, but he still use the GPS read previous post about the nonsense). They were calling each other on the phone, your going the wrong way, no your system is wrong, this system is wrong. Needless to say we ladies had to tell them, one of you go first and the other one follows PERIOD no matter what the ding dang system says. The system is not GOD, there are many ways to skin a cat, so there are many ways to drive to Myrtle Beach and your system is just giving you different ways. Tired, can you tell I am not impressed with the GPS system... good, I am not, give me a damn map and I can work it out!!!

No knit news. I did not knit on vacation, I left my socks. gosh darn. However, I did cast on for Ene's scarf.

Overall this was a great vacation. Our families get along well, so it was great company, food and a nice place to rest our head. It was also great because the kids are much older (a tear sliding down) and they may not want to hang around everyone (you know how teenagers are), hopefully not. To sum it all.

Price of Trip:
Condo rental: Price just right, especially when you are splitting it with another family
Transportation: Just gas, Thanks VW, the Passat V6 was great on the road.
Attractions: Too damn much for memories for a life time, they are still talking about the haunted house.
GPS: The men using their GPS system and it acting up TOO FLUCKING FUNNY
Total: The smile on my family face and seeing the Washington Monument on the return trip home........ P R I C E L E S S

So, we came, we saweth, and we left.

Knitty Gritty

I just love this show!!! I record the shows and watch them when I get a chance. And guess who I saw the other day...... Cookie A. It was awesome and now I know what my next sock may be (sorry Jaywalkers). Me and my daughter was oogling over the Twinkle Toe socks. We will definitely knit these for Summer of Socks!!

I know some people do not get Knitty Gritty but you should definitely go there and get free patterns for knitting or anything crafty. I love DIY Network - you name it they have it for crafty people.

For the knit patterns click here:

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/na_knitting/0,2024,DIY_14141,00.html

From the mouth of babes

My little one, the baby (their all my babies) 8 year old Stefon is a trip. I figured I would share with you a little of his sassiness (I wonder where he got that from). No seriously, I would not be surprised if he becomes a comedian, actor or President. He is just that funny and smart. My mom and family love to be around him. Remember that show, Kids Say the Darnest Things - it's true. Okay here is a little bit.

Background: Dad and kids don't eat Pork or seafood (except fish). Mom still partake in the pork, but rarely - maybe 2 times a year if. Okay here goes.

Stefon: Mom you know where your going. Me: Where? Stefon: You know, never mind. Me: Boy what are you talking about - speak up. Stefon: You know what the Bible says. Me: Stunned, thought about - are you telling me I am going to Hell. Stefon: I can't say the word, but yeah if you keep eating that pork. Well, at least he is worried about my well being.

Background: I don't know what it is about kids and lightskinned blacks. Each one of my kids when they were little thought I was white. Mind you, I am not that light. My theory they see the crayon white - black and they figure, hell she is closer to the white crayon.

So we go to Costco.

Stefon: Mom you know what you look like. Me: Stefon, I don't want to hear it right now (I knew he was going to say something crazy and of course his father is down another aisle). Stefon: I just got to tell you something. Me: Look boy, I asked you to be quiet. Stefon: Mommy, I was just going to tell you that you are the same color as Bob the Builder. Me: I am not the color of Bob the Builder - BE QUIET. Stefon: Yup, you are white just like him mommy, I am telling you. Me: Bob the Builder is yellow and I am black. Black people come in all shades!!!!! Husband is now back dying laughing. Take your child.

Stefon talking about his sister:

Stefon: Mommy Me: Yes (worried) Stefon: Your daughter (his sister) is getting on my nerves. Me: Why, what's wrong. Stefon: She is always yelling when I ask her something. I am going to start calling her "angry (he means anger) management." Me: Dying laughing this time. Sister: Trying to kill him. We all call her anger management now!! Too funny!

Okay, too many stories to tell about Stefon. So, I will just leave you with these for now.

In Knitting News: I finished my third Clapotis and as usual, I have no pictures. Hell, at least I am consistent. I will take some today (hopefully). I might pick up Starsky or Ene's before starting something new. Who knows.

How do you spell relief? I spell it like this: V A C A T I O N

Myrtle Beach here I come!!!

It's almost here!!!! I can smell the salt water if I close my eyes hard enough and hear the water hitting against the rocks. I have 5 more days and than I will be out of the city!!!! I can't wait. I so need a vacation. The boss man has been working my everlasting last nerve. He is normally a quiet little man, but lately he has been wearing stilts or something (I am going to talk to his girlfriend and tell her to give him some "act right" (maybe that will help)..

So, what did we do this weekend. The family went out for Caribbean food and we loved it as usual. I love the fact that my family will try different foods - well not the oldest son (my baby)as much. I can't believe he's my child anyway - he does not eat fish at all!!! I love seafood.

Let me see, what else, oh, the hubby played with his new toy - a navigation system. It was too funny, he had it on for the simplest places: to Pentagon City (the mall we always go to) back home (as if we didn't know where we live). The lady voice is annoying as heck. Especially when he makes a turn she determines wrong, she sounds exasperated and says, "rerouting" - like you idiot, I told you to make a left not a right. It would be so cool to put your own voice in the system and make your own "wrong way fool" or better yet "didn't I tell your ass to turn left."

I went shopping for my Summer Swapper, I think I did a good job, I plan on sending the package out tomorrow, so I will probably take a picture of it before it goes out.

Oh guess what, my daughter asked me to buy her some yarn to knit on the trip. I can't believe it since she hasn't picked up the needles in awhile. I think I am going to give her the Knitpick Shine my Swapper gave me for a tank she saw, if not, we will go shopping!!

The next best thing happened today - CAMP!!! My 8 year old son needs an outlet, he is so wired and this will help him unwind - I hope they wear his buns out!!! My daughter goes as well, but she is pretty good, so she will just go along with the program. Last year she did the Girl Scout sleep away camp and she said she might still sign up for it. They always have openings later. We will see.

I hope everyone had a great weekend and a merry Monday.

Summer Swapper - Yarn Porn

Finally - here are the pictures from my Summer Swapper. She is so great!! Here it is:

Knit Pick Shine : My daughter has already claimed this.

Rowan Classic Silk Wool DK: maybe a scarf or socks.

Rowan Tapestry: Love the colors scarf definitely!! Gets cold, got to have enough scarves in your wardrobe.

MMMMMbalabrigo.....can't wait to use!

Oh and do you see the Ghirardelli... delicious!! Hubby and kids have claimed!!

Have a great weekend!!! OH Almost forgot HARRY POTTER BOOK IS OUT!!!!

Temperature

Oh and by the way - who the hell turned the temperature on HELL!!! It is hot as hell (not quite) in the nation's capitol!!!

Weekend

I hope everyone had a great weekend with Dad!!! Me and the kids took the husband to BSmith (aka the Black Martha Stewart) at Union Station. The food is soooo delicious. Jazz was playing and the food "YUM". Here is a sample of the menu: made to order omlets and belgian waffles, cheese grits, fried chicken, mac and chees, fish, seafood pasta, baked apples....... Southern fare. We had everything. I think I gained 10lbs, but it was worth it.

Want to hear something funny.... DH told us, if we really wanted to make his day complete we could take him and get the Plasma Screen t.v. he wants. I looked at him lovingly and told him, that its a shame that he will not have a totally good day!!! He was just kidding (I wasn't). Love the man dearly, but dang. He has it in the works to get it before football season anyway!!!

I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Me, me and oh yeah me!!!

Knitting Help Summer Swap

Let me tell you, the gift was worth the wait. My yarn swapper sent me a package and I asked my DH to pick it up for me. So, he calls me at work and tells me he got the package and will bring it home (after he was suppose to pick it up a couple days a go and he didn't). Anyway, he brings it home and I meet him at the door excited - HELLO - present for me (oh hubby too, gotta love him). Well, I get upstairs prepare to open it and I look at the box and am like, ummm something is not right. So, I open it and it is some medicine - not for me but for someone else. So, of course I am yelling at hubby (slow ass) and am like the post office is closed and now I have to wait another day - ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!

Well, hubby didn't want to disappoint again (um, I can be a bitch, pouty, a little spoiled), so he picked me up from the subway and we smoked it to the post office and they gave me the package MY package, and I opened the damn thing right there! I was floored, spoiled pretty damn good!!! Of course I don't have pictures. I did try, but the pictures didn't come out right, so I will take better ones and upload them next week (Mother Nature did destroy my modem for the internet, so I am trying, but until then) when I get to work.

Let me see she gave me so much: Rowan Tapestry, Rowan DK, Mbalgrio, Knitpick and Ghriardelli (2 Bags!!!) and a nice note. I love all the yarn!!! I can't wait to use them all, I am already thinking 2 scarves and my daughter wants the Knitpicks (I have to look for a pattern).

Personal shout out to my swapper for making me feel special. I am always the one who do for other's so it's nice to have someone do for me!!! Especially since I was in a swap and my person did not come through and I didn't receive a angel even though I told my group leader. So again, thanks Summer Swapper - Yarn XOXO ( I know your in the CHI from the address).

Oh in other swap news, I must say this. People you reep what you sow and also Karma is a muthaflucker!!! I hear people whine about how they are in swaps and there person complain about them or they this and that, and yet do the same thing. Treat people like you want to be treated!!

NEXT!! (said like the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld)

Pomatomous

I am moving right along, I have loved this pattern when I first saw this and thought it would be too hard for me, well a sister is doing the damn thing (if I may say so myself). Take a look. It's for my 13 year old daughter who love blue, so I think she will like this.

Have a great weekend, sorry for the typos or grammatical errors, I will correct them later. Oh and for knitters in the DC, MD and Northern VA area StitchDC is celebrating it's 3 year anniversary and they are having a sale 15-60% off everything in the store.

Peace!! (said like Pam on Martin - dang I miss that show)

Quickie

Stress!!!

I have pictures of my son going to the prom and all that jazz, but I have not had a chance to post because my boss is working my ass off (while he is on vacation) and I have no other way to get on the internet because Verizon slowpokes have not been able to get my internet back up since Mother Nature showed me who the HBIC is.

Also, I have been going back and for with my homeowner association and other because they are about what happened yesteryear and I am about today and solving issues now - oh and following the damn bylaws. Dang, they are what govern you - oh, did I tell you by degree is in politics. I love to debate (some might say argue). Anyway, they are disorganized and our pool is not open. Funny thing me and the Prez been going back and forth and he has started the process with a lot of stuff. All people need some times is a little push and a high heel (size nine) in the butt.

So, more to come later when I can really get to have fun. Isn't that what going to work is for???

See ya when I see ya (or should I say write ya).

Smooches

Mother Nature is not having it!!!

Well, let me tell you. Don't play with Mother Nature!!!

I am now able to blog after cleaning my house up after the Memorial Day festivities at my house. Let me just start off by saying light beige carpet, 20 + people and Sangria do not mix. My carpet looked like crap. I have been deep cleaning it all week. We really did have a good time, it was some people first time at the house so they got to walk around and enjoy it.

Close to the end of the cookout it started to rain and thunder and my MIL said lets turn some of this stuff off because it is lightning and stuff in the house and I turned and looked at her and said, you older people are a trip, I don't believe in it (although, I had to do this as a child because my mother was not having it). So, we were playing cards and I said wait, I have to get something off the computer real quick. Turned the computer on walked away and heard this loud boom. It was Mother Nature showing me she was in charge (just like a woman)!!! So, now the internet isn't working, the t.v. in my bedroom and my daughters bedroom isn't working either. I will not mess with her again.

Of course I got some shopping done. I went to Leesburg Prime Outlet in VA and totally enjoyed myself, got more Off Saks 5th Ave tickets and can't wait to use it on their bags and shoe sell. I can not fine any cute shoes worth spending money on and I really need some shoes.

I really didn't get to knit much, I put the socks, the shawl and everything else down. However, I did buy a knitting book and some more knitting magazines. I want to get my hands on some Rebecca and Kim Hargrave (I think) magazines. The more I get into this thing called Knitting, I want to hoard it all. The world of knitting is so huge!!!

As always, I did not take pictures of my WIP, but I am uploading up unblocked shawlette and will upload the blocked version tomorrow (if my internet is up - Verizon will be there tomorrow between 8 a.m. and when sharks fly - I am pretty much betting on them coming a little before the sharks fly.

Oh, I almost forgot. Did I tell you my son is going to the Prom tomorrow!!! I can't wait, I am throwing a pre-prom party with family and friends before we sent him off. If I am doing this for my son can you imagine what I am going to do for my daughter????

I will show the block version later.

My new baby

Hello out there in blogland.

I have been a busy little beaver and am at work working hard as usual and I really haven't had time to post. So here is a quick update.

I have a new baby. Her name is Precious and likes to be called Cole Haan. I love her dearly. I rescued her this weekend and I am loving her already. I am thinking about going to get her sister this weekend in a darker brown, but she was helluva expensive and I don't know if I can afford her too. Here is a picture of Precious

Even if she doesn't become a twin, she has a lot of other sister's that I love just as fondly.

Okay, the last time I posted, I said I wanted to find a good read since I finished Walter Mosley and probably start to read a classic. Well, I was bored and since the new Potter book is about to start, I figured I would re-read the last Harry. You know this time around, it seems to be better. Maybe, it is because I am not racing to be finished. I am savouring it and loving it. Here's a little something I found in Harry that I wanted to share:

Slughorn asked Dumbledore why he was taking so long in the bathroom, was his stomach upset and Dumbledore stated:

"No, I was merely reading the Muggle magazines, said Dumbledore. I do love knitting patterns." isn't that the cutest thing!!!

Maybe not, but I am a Potter head, so it's whatever!!! Okay one more, when Dumbledore went to the home to pick Harry up and he was talking to the Uncle.

"I don't mean to be rude - " he (the uncle) began, in a tone that threatened rudeness in every syllable.

"yet, sadly, accidental rudeness occurs alarmingly often, Dumbledore finished the sentence gravely. "Best to say nothing at all, my dear man."

DDDDAAANNNGGG!!! he got straight carried (I know that is an old term). Anyway, I just had to write this because so many people make excuses for being rude and there just isn't any (is there, well).

Okay, just in case I don't post again, have a nice restful weekend and Memorial Day.

Words in quotes taken from J.K. Rowlings', Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

KnitPick Options

Happy Birthday to Me!!!

Guess what I got, yes, the options needle set and some more dpns. I have been dreaming of these things since last summer, but that is when we started the house hunting and stuff so I could not do anything about it. Well, hell with being good, I found the perfect excuse to get them MY BIRTHDAY . I think that was a good reason, what about you? And, I ordered some other notions and the Vogue Knitting 25th Anniversary addition. Why this book? I figured it would be loaded with patterns, but to my dismay it is not. However, I just glanced at the book. It looks like it is good for someone who wants to design. I actually do and I love studying and perfecting techniques, so I am putting this on my to read list. I just finished Bad Boy Brawley Brown I luv Walter Mosley and Easy Rawlins I don't know why more of his books haven't been turned into movies or a t.v. series, people would fall in love with Mouse and Easy!!! Now what should I read next - a classic or something else....

Updates: I can not find my Interweave Knits, so I can't block the damn shawlette because I do not know what the measurment is suppose to be after blocking and if it is light blocked or soaked then blocked (I don't thinks so). Anyway, I need to find the magazine. I started on the socks for my daughter, so far so good, I love knitting cuff down.

Anyway, pictures will follow. I am planning on celebrating my bday this weekend, with shopping and more, as you read in a previous post about the damn shoes!!! I think I need some after the trauma....

Have a great weekend!!!

They say it's your birthday!!!

Happy Birthday to ME!!!!

As you can see, I am happy as a lamb this morning. I am a 33 year old, beautiful black woman and happy. I like to make goals and I try not to do it on New Years, but on my Bday. So, I would like to reflect on 32, before I make goals for 33.

What did I accomplish at the age of 32:

• I married the man I have been with for 15 years.
• We bought our first home.
• We bought a car.
• I went driving (three times, but I did it) I have my driving license, just scared to drive.
• I went to the mountains for the first time.
• We went on a romantic trip without the kids (haven't done since the beginning of the relationship - damn kids (smile)).
• Learned new knitting techniques, and branched out more
• Exercised more (not enough)
• Date my kids - give them their own personal time
• First full body massage (happy ending - I don't think so!!)
• Pay everything with cash (this was actually very easy - goal -house)
• Save at least 30% salary every pay period (this is hard as hell - did someone say sale!!!)

Okay, so what are my goals for 33

• Get into somebodys damn Master Program, this was on the list last year and as you can see I did not complete it.
• Do a new resume, everyone needs an updated one.
• Date my kids more - especially my daughter (13 and is starting to develop - need I say more) and the 8 year old - my 17 year old and I are already close.
• For the husband keep everything as is, we have a wonderful relationship, so I don't want to change anything there, he respects me and I respect him. So keep doing whatever I have been doing.
• Exercise more and I am going to set a goal of losing 30 lbs.
• Drive more. I AM GOING TO DRIVE TODAY (we will see)
• Continue to save money and try to stick to a budget.
• More me time (please)
• Travel more
• Swim more
• Read classics, expand my reading. I already read a lot, but I would like to go back and read some of the classics.
• Expand knitting technique (double knitting, dying, steeking, etc...)
• Learn to crochet.

Okay enough already, let me get started on this damn list.

Oh and let me say HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DAD!!! His birthday was yesterday. He told me when I was little that I was his present. Please!! We will go there another day with my father.

HAPPY MOMMY DAY!!!

I just wanted to say Happy Mommy's Day to all the women out there handling there business. Whether they are a stay at home mom or a working mom (it's all the same).

I would also like to send a shout out to my mom and dad for laying down for a good cause. THANKS, I am happy to be here!!!

Drop it's like it's hot, Drop it like it's hot!!!!

Hey,

Guess whose been dropping it like its hot???? Me!!! The best part of doing the clapotis is dropping the stitches and I am loving it. I have dropped two so far and I LUV it. I am still not feeling the colors, but now that the stitch is dropped it makes the scarf looks different. We will see. Here is another skein of Lorna Lace that I will have to wind soon because I am almost through with the first one. Here's the pictures of Miss Clappy #3 (sorry for the messy desk - a sistah gotta work!)

H A R R Y P O T T E R

Have you seen the previews???? Oh my goodness, I just can not wait for this movie or book. I went to see Spidy 3 this weekend and it was okay. I was forced to go with the hubby and kids. We go every year and the kids joke and say that it is my birthday present (Bday - 15th next Tuesday).

Anyway, I saw Pirate of the Caribbean 3 and Fantastic Four 2 trailer and some more. But the one I can't wait for is HARRY!!!! Oh my goodness, this is going to be the best movie yet (hopefully) annnnnddddd I don't have to wait until November, it will be out in July. I felt like such a nerd, I had to be held down. My husband and kids were like mom please be quiet. I was yelling and whooping it up, until I realized that i looked like the other nerds.

Anyway, I am going to start reading the book over again after I finish reading Walter Mosley's Bad Boy Brawly Brown.

Oh, I will take pictures of the Clementine Shawlette whenever I get a chance I still have to block it and little miss clappy is moving along even though I am not feeling the colors.

Shhhhh something new!!

Hey,



Guess what I started last night. A new clappy - for me of course. I don't like the colors so far, I hope it grows on me. Oh, and the clementine shawlette is finished except for the kitchner stitch.

And the stitch markers were a house warming gift from one of my coworkers - she made them herself. I will take a close up of theme later.

Why Me?!?!

Do you ever experience those days when you ask yourself - Why me???? Who have I wronged!!! Karma maybe??? But for what!!

Yesterday, I got up early and decided to look really nice. My office was taking a coworker out for her last day and hell it's finally Spring in the nations' capitol. So, I get up, do my hair and as I am doing this I can hear the news and it is saying that Eastern Market is burning down and I am like WHY!!! I love Eastern Market, my meals are planned around Eastern Market. There are very few places in Washington, DC where you can buy, fresh organic meats, flowers, smoked Gouda, a painting and a vintage belt!!!! I know they will rebuild but my heart goes out to the vendors and I will be out there this weekend trying to support the outdoor vendors. I guess I will have to go to Whole Foods (pay $15 for cherries - no kidding, that is what I paid last year for a freaking pound (I was desperate)) or wait until the open air market opens in Anacostia - June. Bummer man!!!

Okay, than I get to work and I am looking FIERCE (if I do say so myself). I have on my teal linen and bejewelled sandals. I bought my "F" me shoes to work to wear when it was time to go to the Tabard Inn for the lunch party. Well, the food was okay but the red and white wines we had were awesome. I am adding it to my list for my wine tasting party. DELISH!! Anywho, I say my good byes so that I can go and pick up the brat (love the little one but that is what I call him).

NOW, this is where the drama starts. I call the husband and chat with him why I am walking to the subway station. Oh, did I tell you I changed back into the bejewelled darlings, didn't want to walk a long way in the "f"me shoes.... I am walking in the wrong direction which means I have to now run/walk because it is 3:15 and I have to pick the babe up @ 3:15 - so I am late. My shoe hit the sidewalk hard and the DAMN sandal break - WTF!!! So, guess what boys and girls??? I had to take the sandals off and put back on the "F" me shoes!!! Mind you I am like 8 blocks away, I have 10 dollars on me and I can't catch a cab because I didn't see any ATM machines. That means, I have to walk in 3 inch heels for it seems like forever before I got to the damn metro station!!

So, by time I get to my sons' school (4:13), I am limping and my foot is burning, I can barely see straight because of the pain. I am trying to still look cute because you are not suppose to let them see you sweat. I begin to talk to myself and say, "MAN UP BITCH" and "WORK IT" So that is what gets me across the street to the school, where I almost pass out from the pain. Dad doesn't get their until 4:30 to relieve my aching feet. I get to the car take my shoes off and i have a damn blister on my right foot. I say a small prayer, "please Lawd (Lord) don't let this grow into a blister.

Does it stop here??? Of course not!!! I decide to look down at the "f" me shoes and take another guess - my "F" ME shoes are broke as well!!! - the heel is almost sawed in half!!!! It looks like a dog has been chewing on it. I told my dh to look at it and he says, you can take it to a shoe shop and get it fixed!!!! I don't have time for that crap!!!!

Anyway, I ended the day soaking my feet for an hour, him rubbing them and watching Flavor of Love Charm School - them girls are crazy!!!

Oh, this weekend was awesome too, smoked salmon, asiago cheese, a bottle of Riesling and the fireplace. Awesome. And I made Sunday dinner for my godsister, her husband and their two boys. The menu - chicken, greens (collard and kale mixed), cornbread, potato salad and fresh squeezed lemonade.

Knitting - not too much, a shame too, because I am just about finished the clementine shawlette. maybe I will finish today, or tomorrow.....

Girls, girls, girls

The slumber party was great. My daughter had a slumber party this Saturday and it was a fun time. We did trivia, karaoke and tried to watch a scary movie. For food we had snacks, pizza and a ice cream bar (fresh strawberries, banana, caramel, pineapples, chocolate and of course fudge). For breakfast they had waffles, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, eggs and turkey bacon. It was great and the girls got excellent goody bags. We gave them black cosmetic bags with lip gloss, sunglasses, fingernail polish and bangles.

Okay, the bad part, the reason I hate having sleepovers. There is always someone who don't come and get their child on time. I specifically put on the invitation that pick up time was 11 am. Everyone RSVP and did not say that a problem with this. All the parents came and got their girls on time EXCEPT one. Her parents didn't come and get her until 5 p.m. Mind you my boys were over my godsister house and we had to go and get them and we were waiting on her parents because they did not have a cell phone and we couldn't get in contact with them. The girl was no problem, but her parents worked my nerve. I live in a gated community so when they showed up, they started yelling my daughter name through the window. My husband told them that we were sending her out and she said, "well, is she coming now." I looked at him and said, I know they are not rushing anyone!! So, when the little girl walked out the door we were getting in the car to leave and the mom waves to me and says, "thanks, for taking care of my baby" and I am like phony smile and wave because if I said something to her or husband it would not have been pretty!!

The flowers I planted are dying, green thumb - Not!!! However, my yard still looks nice. I am going to have my uncle come back over and look at stuff for me.

Oh right, knitting. It's coming along. Again, the shawlette is easy, but I have been busy with other stuff, plus I had to rip a couple of rows because i was not paying attention and was off a number somewhere. Anywho, I hope to be finished tomorrow, so I can start something else. I casted on for MY clapotis!!!

Pictures loaded later (so she says).

Are we half way there yet?

Nope!!! Not yet. I am ready to cheat and jump back on Starsky, or something. I am tired of the same pattern. It's a joy and I know it by heart now, but I want to do something else.

Oh hell, I guess I won't, it's not the Clementine shawlette fault that I am taking forever to knit it. Especially since it is eary. I will keep chugging along (hopefully).

Here is an update shot.

Weekend plans? Yeah, we plan on doing home improvement crap that we have talked about (we will see) since the weather is suppose to be crappy. Oh and we may go down to the Cherry Blossom Parade, who knows. Me and my daughter have been looking forward to it, but I don't want to be cold any more. So, we will see.....

Hey, a lot of updates in the past two days - another pat on my back!!!

Will the real Sherry J please step up!!

A friend emailed me and told me about this excellent sell that was going on and that luxury yarn was on sell for 1/2 price or more. So, I went online looked at the yarn and it was selling out very fast. I have been looking to buy the Lorna Lace Lions and Lamb yarn for the clapotis, but it would cost me like 120 to make and I was just breaking down and about to buy it when low and behold this comes up and guess what they had it for about 11 dollars a skein. Can someone say SCORE!!! so, what's a woman to do, but buy it. I ordered the LL Lions and Lamb (new clapotis), Rowan Cashsoft (2 bandeau - me and the daughter), and some Lorna Lace sock yarn (daughter - I wuv their sock yarn).


The place is in Northern Virginia so I figured I should receive the package at the two days - NOT. Well, that didn't happen. I received a email from someone with the same name as mine, so I thought the message was pirated and didn't open it for a while. Than I saw in the memo that it reference the knitting package. I opened the email and saw that they sent my package to her in NYC. To make a long story short, this kind woman with the same names as mine (since I have not changed my last name on my cards yet) sent me my stuff right away.


I have not scrapbooked in years, but I felt like I should send her a Thank you card, for sending it to me and guess what. It kicked started a lot of projects (and unfinished projects).


Here is the card:

I know it looks cheesy, but I am proud of myself because I made it myself and I made it for someone else (hey, I am selfish and I know it). So, with doing that. It kicked off these beauties ....

My daughter is having a slumber party and I made different ones and I personalized them for each girl so that they all have a different one. We are going to do a Murder Mystery.

Kite Festival - Cherry Blossom

The Cherry Blossom Festival is a big deal in Washington, D.C. and this year I decided to participate more, because the trees are really beautiful and there are lots of things to do for free with your family.

The Kite Festival was down on the Mall and it was awesome. It was a beautiful day to fly kites and have a picnic. Me and the kids went along with my husbands aunt. We had a ball. Of course these are the pictures she took, because i am a procrastinator and have not begun to take my pictures off of the camera. Well here they are.

First the Cherry Blossoms:















Kites any one?

Guess what building that is?????















Yup, you guessed it - the Washington Monument







Hey, look at the blossoms, kites and all the people!!!






That is my baby's kite (Stefon) soaring up the Monument (the big pencil).



Hey, have you read the Kite Runner, if not you should get it THE best book I have read in a long time. Just was a complete book. I say that because there is a scene in the book about Kite fighting. If you look at the pic closely, my son kite and another young man (loser) kite was entangled and they had a kite fight - who won did you say???? MY BABY cut his line - proud mama - yup. They had professional kite fights later, but we left by than.


And who can that be struggling to get the lady bug kite off the ground?
















Yeah it's me, with my daughters kite!!!!

Okay, I will try to upload some pics of my daughters invitations we sent out for her sleepover. This is so fun, we are going to do a Mystery - sleepover. Cool Hah.
And I will tell you gals about my yarn shopping saga.

Update

Okay, peeps I have been gone for quite awhile and I can now give you a update on what I have been up to besides knitting and living.

PARTY BUS TO NYC

So, on March 17th we got on a party bus to celebrate a 40th birthday. The bus was so sweet. It had a DVD player, music, strobe lights, a bathroom and blacken windows. We had a excellent time, and they are thinking about doing one to Canada. There was no need to stop, except for a smoke break, because you know how I feel about the smoking thing. We left Bowie, MD to go to NYC to Il Bastardo in Chelsea. It was a nice Italian steakhouse. It was a great concept. We didn't have to get off to use the bathroom and everyone who do drink could. I was excited for one because I got to watch the game while they were acting a fool. God I love college basketball. March is the month for me. Maryland lost, which I knew they were, but GEORGETOWN won, which I am happy about because it would of been a bummer on the trip.

On the 24th we attend my MIL birthday party at the Cheesecake Factory. Anyone who knows me know that I can not stand the place. The food is too overrated they pile the food up and than it taste like crap. The only thing they have going is the cheesecake and that is not worth the wait. My advice is to just go and get the cheesecake curbside. Ugh. We waited so long to get in and it wasn't Ruth Chris. I am not even going to waste my time talking nor writing about the place. All I am going to say is that they were correct to put Factory in the name. Sunday we went out to a nice place with excellent service Longhorn Steakhouse the flo steak is delicious. We all enjoyed our food. My husbands steak was not cooked the way he wanted it and they apologized and bought him out a new steak done the way he wanted. The manager came over and apologized and asked to bring us appetizer and we told him that it wasn't necessary. But we will definitely eat there again. Afterwards we went to Coldstone and got ice cream and ate outside and watched the ducks. And more basketball - LET'S GO HOYAS!!!

KNITTING

I have started so many projected and then quite them all. I am now a one project woman (said that before). I am just going to knit the Clementine Shawlette and than go from there. I ordered some yarn to do other projects in the Spring Interweave, i will show you it later (another long story - tomorrow).

Quickie

Okay here it is short and sweet. Not that I have a following or anything, but I figured it has been a while since I have written. IT'S SPRINGTIME. These are the shoes I wore to work today to celebrate the excellent weather we will have in the nation's capitol today (81). I think it will get to maybe 85 and than it is suppose to drop. Anyway, quick right. Okay, so now I am working on the Clementine Shawlette out of Interweave Knits for the mother-in-law. I am loving the blue sky alpaca. It is so soft now I see what all the rave is about. It is such a nice day I will have to check in later.

Oh, here is progress:



How are you? It is 81 degrees here in Washington, DC and I am loving it. Cherry Blossoms and all.

I am working on the clemintine shawlette out of Interweave for the mother-in-law. I am loving the blue sky alpaca. It is so soft now i see what all the rave is about. It is such a nice day i will have to check in later.

Here is progress:

Guess who got hitched.....

Okay, it's me!!! Friday, me and my boyfriend of 15 years decided to make it legal. We already feel like we are man and wife. Hell, we have the kids, house and car. And we still act like lovebirds. Anyway, I was content with being the girlfriend and he was not. We experience a lot of death the past couple of weeks and we realized that if something happened his family or mines could step in (anna nicole) and demand that I want this or that and we didn't want that. So, I am now a married woman.

Knitting - I am starting to wind some Claudia Handpainted sockyarn, picks to come later.

Chow for now.

Child or Yarn - which is more important

Friday, I took off for a ME day and it was wonderful. Everyone should take one. The kids left for school and the bf went to work. It was awesome, it was the first time I got to enjoy the new home.

I watched plenty of t.v. when I was not sleep. A lot of court shows and paternity test's. Maury Povich is the new Jerry Springer. One girl on the show was testing her 10th possible baby daddy and guess what....he was NOT the father. What the hell!!!!! How do you not know who you slept with, in that span of time, she slept with over ten men evidentally because she still can't find that childs father. DAMN!! Also, what makes them come on the show and than start calling all the guys ugly and all this crap, but yet you laid down with the guy and you had his kid (maybe). The best part is when they say I am 100% no 1000% sure that he is the father and there have never been no one else. And than it comes out he is not the father and they go running off the stage crying.... Why, Man the Fuck UP!!! You knew, women know. I also watched Knitty Gritty, love Vickie Howell.

After all the drama on the t.v., I turned the music on and laid in front of the fireplace. Knitting - I thought I was going to have time to knit, but didn't get a chance. Finally, I got dressed and decided to leave the house early to pick up my youngest son. I figured I could go to the lys on the way to pick up the son and stop at Eastern Market and get some fresh fruit and cheese (smoked gouda is too die for).

Well the best laid plans are some time NOT. I arrived at Stitch DC and did not have a lot of time, but I figured I will not go to Eastern Market, I will do that on the weekend like we normally do. Stitch DC is so welcoming and the people are nice, so I chatted with the Yarn Pimp and we had pleasant conversation about my clapotis and other things and than I bought some new yarn(will show picks later) I bought some new yarn for the Forbes Forest and I bought some new sock yarn. I wanted the Knitters Almanac and the new Interweave Knits, but of course they were sold out. After spending too much money (more needles and notions), I looked at my watch and realized it was 3:15 and guess what time the little one gets out of school. Yup, you guessed it at the same damn time. Thank goodness, I could just hop on the subway and take one stop and walk to get him. So, I got there at 3:25 with apologies I got the little one.

I made it up to him though. We had family night later on and we went to Arrundel Mills and we ate and bought books from Books-A-Million (I got the new Interweave, but they did not have the Knitter's Almanac). It will be ordered.

Who says my priorties aren't correct?

Rewind

Here's a picture of the left panel of Starsky yesterday morning.

Well here is a picture of Starsky now.

I decided it would be much quicker if I just started over, or I will be forever trying to figure out this crap. I knew I would not be happy with the cables lined up incorrectly and that is what was happening at the top, which seems to be an issue with other knitters as well.

Am I upset you ask? Nope, I will be off tomorrow and I will have all day to knit if I want.

Yarn winding and rewinding

Hey take a look at this:



This is the color I am using for Ene's scarf in Scarf Style, once I am finished winding it up. I do not have an "official winder" except for the little arms of a eight year old. I think I am going to buy him some needles and teach him how to knit. He has asked before and what I have seen on the net, men are rocking knitters. Can it be said, a family who knits together, stay together? You never know.

My new knitting mantra. I will never stop in the middle of a project without taking proper notes, so that I know where to begin once I pick it up again. I am almost finished the left side of the Starsky and I had to rip out two rows three times yesterday because the cable is not lining up correctly. My notes only say start here! I am so crazy, I am hoping to try and work it out at lunch time. This should not be that hard, but it is when you are old and can't remember because you put it down in September or October.

Rewinding. This weekend I took out the yarn of some old socks of mine. My first socks I ever knitted. I am rewinding the sock yarn as well and I think I will make Jaywalkers or some other cool socks.

Wish me luck!!!

Grape-o-licious - is a FO

Thanks to the crazy weather in Washington, DC I have been able to complete my second clapotis - grape-o-licious. She was a little defiant in the beginning, but in the end, she became buttery soft.



Here she is in her folded glory



Again, wrapped around my son - his father was not proud of this picture


Nor this one, but what the hell - WORK it Stefon!! -

I knitted her with Karabella Margarite, I think that is right. I will look for the label when I get home and make a correction if needed. She is so uberly, buttery soft and I just love her. Guess what, it's for me. I don't think it is long enough for the grandma, therefore, I think it will be best for me to keep it. Plus, the kids said that BLUE is her favorite color. Can you believe that sh@# after spending 60 dollars. Anyway, if's for me and it will go well with my white winter coat.

Will enter the other details later, until then. Oh, I almost forgot my thank yous. I would like to thank Knitty once again and also T.I. and Biggie Small's their CDs helped a lot at the end - oh and a little of Games CD as well. And last but not least mother nature - good looking out with the snow, ice and rain.

Peace!!

Spit is your friend

Hey, guess what new technique I just learned???? Splicing, except I used water. I just couldn't do it with the spit. I am in total awe of this technique, I will use this for now on. No more weaving in loose threads for me. I couldn't use this technique on the last clappy I made because it was 100% supermerino, but I can (and have) used it on this clappy except for the beginning (I was scared or as the rappers say scurred!!).

Grape Clapotis - is going well, I have found time to knit on the metro this past couple of days. The end of the road is nearing and I was suppose to buy more yarn to make me one, but I think that will not be necessary. Why do you say? I just might be keeping it for myself and buying the bf mom, pots and pans for her birthday. Selfish - you say. I say your 1,000% correct. It just feels so good against my skin, I put it on last night and the cashmere is so buttery soft.

Forbes Forest - I have worked on it at home, I can see a little of the work, but it is definitely too black. A few more rows and than I will quit. Did I tell you, I am going to make a pumpkin one for a birthday gift. Will it be bad to make one for him and than someone else too?

Parent Teacher Conference/Forbes Forest

Yeah, for parent, teacher conferences!!! I got a day off to do nothing, except go to the conference that is and enjoy the company of a eight year old who act like he was walking off a plank. Me and Dad went to the youngest conference today and we were told that he is progressing much better since he has been attending Saturday school. He still needs to work on his handwriting and math. So, that means I will be in Borders buying more books and test prep so that he can become the President of the United States. I felt sorry for some of the kids, because some parents were threatening to kill the kids, I don't know what they were doing in school, but I believe those kids are going to REALLY get it.

I WUV the book Scarfstyle, I believe I purchased it in July/August (previous pics on blog). Anywho, the reason I bought the book is because of Forest Forbes and Ene's Scarf. Hell, I love almost all the patterns in the book. Okay, back to Forbes. I was ecstatic when I showed by bf the picture and he loved the pattern. So, I said what color do you want it in and he said BLACK and my heart dropped. Why, do you say? All the bobbles, cables and other goodies are not going to show well in black.

Well, guess what? I started knitting it and IT DOES NOT SHOW WELL!!! What is a girl to do???? I tried to convince him to change colors and he said no. NO! Have I ever taken no for an answer....Hell to the naw!!! (Well yeah).

So what is my plan? Knitting the damn thing a couple more rows to show him that it does not look right, that it will look better in a different color. And if THAT doesn't work - temporary insanity - screaming, holler, crying and no Rick James funky stuff (you know what)!!! He'll cave.

I'll tell you about a new color soon - wish me luck - I mean him luck.

When will smoking be banned outside?

I understand that people can do what they want. I don't have a problem with people slowly killing themselves (unless their family). Do you!!! But at the same time have some consideration for others. THAT is my only problem with smokers. It is cold as heck in Washington, D.C. right now and smoking at the bus terminal is not cool, especially when you are trying to get some air after being covered head to toe, because your freezing. Anyway, I think it should be banned outdoors or anywhere else if you ask me except for their own homes. It's not that I don't know smokers, hell, my mom, dad, sister and brother smoke (not in my house) and yes, I have to put up with it during holidays sometimes (than I have a choking attack and they quit).

I always said if I was a smoker I would be seasonal, only when it was warm. Okay, one more rant about smoking that I can't understand. My sister, smokes and have children. With each pregnancy she quit smoking and took it back up once she had the babies - if you can do it then, why can't you do it the rest of the time. Maybe, I am not suppose to understand.

Until the next rant.

HSN - Bravetti Pro

Okay folks, I am an avid HSN purchaser. I just love Wolfgang Pucks cookware and other stuff as well. However, I decided to venture to Bravatti Pro rice cooker, slow cooker, baker and paster maker. Can you believe all of that in one machine? Well, you shouldn't. I tried to boil pasta in it (oh yeah, pasta cooker as well) and it boiled over. Water went every where!!! So, I blamed myself and said maybe I put too much water in it. Well, I decided to make beef stew for the Super Bowl, I put it on slow cooker and than for 4 hours. PERFECT. Than, I went upstairs to do a little housecleaning and came back and the damn thing was turned on warm - 30 minutes not 1 hour. What the fuck (sorry, needs to be said)?!? So, I turned it on soup setting and it cooked for 21/2 hours and than did the same shit. So guess what's getting returned to HSN. Yup! you betcha.

That is one thing I really love about HSN, you can return anything back for any reason as long as it is within 30 days. I went and looked at reviews for the damn thing and some people love it despite it's faults. Some just put it on another setting and I don't think I should have to do that. It should just work and since that is not the case - see you later bravetti gator.

Don't purchase at all!!

Grape Clapotis Update

I know, I know, it's been a long time coming. Here is the claptois. I like it, but it is pilling a lot. It might has something to do with me carrying it around all over the place and not in a case/plastic bag. I also, got something on it and I need to find out how to get it off of a cashmere mix.

One mans trash - is another's treasure.

So......what do you think? It's fully loaded: heated seats, wood grain, sunroof, 6 airbags - everything. THE best thing - certified owned. Which means we are fully covered for 2 years or 24,000 miles whichever comes first AND it's still under the original warranty because the car has 43,000 miles. We are really loving this car. The significant other is loving it more than me and the kids. He gets to drive it to work every day and we are still catching the bus and train; he leaves to go to work at 5 in the morning.

This weekend I will make myself drive. I really need to get out there and just do it. I don't know why I have such a mental block when it comes to driving. I think I am scared of failure more than anything else. We will discuss that at a later date. The house pics are coming soon!!!

Where has all the time gone!!

LIFE. Gee, it has been over a month since I last wrote. Well, I have a lot to write about. I finally moved into the house and I L O V E IT!!!! The kids do as well. I will load pictures one day (I know, promises, promises!!).

Guess what else we finally purchased..... A car!!! Much needed, especially now that we moved and don't have access to our aunt and uncles car (they had two cars and lived up the street). Anyway, we bought a 2003 VW Passat GLX - and again, pictures to follow a little later. So, next project - complete Master's application and college application for my senior.

Enough of that knitting - Well I am still working on the mother in law clapotis. I was going to give it to her on Xmas but didn't finish, which is fine because she is not expecting it and her bday is in March - so by then I should be finished. I have to pick Starsky back up, I can't believe I haven't had time to do anything lately. It is a little harder now, because I am on the metro train now and it is harder to knit with people almost sitting on your lap, unlike before when I caught the bus and it was damn near empty. So, I have to find time at work, which is hard because I have auditors in the office this week and my face hurts from smiling and bowing.

Anyway, I hope to get back to you soon with pics of the house, car - oh an knitting.

The End - Clapotis folded

Middle - dropped stitch

Beginning

Artyarn Supermerino 130

My so called life....

House

Finally, we went to settlement Monday afternoon and we are now homeowner's!!!! Yeah!!! I am so happy, the seller is still in the home because he is moving to Georgia and he is trying to settle on his new home. He payed rent for 30days so he has until January 11th or before (guess which one I am hoping for?). The best thing about a new home is......SHOPPING. I don't know if i told you guys/gals but I have to buy everything anew anyway because my place flooded in July and we lost our sofa and dining room set so I can't wait.

Clappy

I finished the clapotis for by bf aunt and she loved it. The only problem is, I finished like the day of and I didn't have a chance to take many pictures or of it on her, so I will have to get her to take a picture of it.

However, I do have some and here it is.

Clapotis - clapotis - oh how I love to knit thee

My clapotis is going quite well. I love knitting this scarf/shawl - so much so, that I can't believe I was so intimidated at first, by the pattern. Learning new techniques are fun (thanks to knittinghelp.com), i.e. yarn over, knit front and back loop and above all dropping stitches. I was so scared to drop it in the beginning because I kept saying if I drop it, and it is not the right one, I don't know how to begin again, without starting from the beginning. But, that was not the case and I can see so much progress. I want to make href="http://www.knitty.com/issuefall04/pattclapotis.html">Clapotis
clapotis in every color and fabric. I think I might save and make mine with Blue Sky Alpaca. A lady at my LYS, Stitch D.C. on Capitol Hill, did hers in a canary yellow color and it was just FABULOUS!!!

I will send a picture of my progress later.

Confessions of a cheater

Shhhh don't tell anyone!!!

Patterns everywhere may hear you. I was in denial for a long time. I thought I was a one project woman. I have come to the realization that I am a cheat, a user. The eyes and hands are weak. I get my fill and than I am on to the next young thing.

I don't know what to do!!! Should I seek help? Yarn or knitaholics. What is a fun loving knitrix to do. I am even prone to pimping my hobby out to others. I am just a very sick individual. I am in love with colors and the prospect of something new.

Dilemma, dilemmas - I can't knit Starsky forever, I have become bored and complacent. So, I found someone new, young and vivacious - Clapotis. What a looker, I have even tried to come up with excuses for my behavior but I can't. She is so beautiful and seductive. Just wicked, I am using Artyarn Supermerino to enhance my addiction.

Well, I am knitting it as a gift, does that justify the cheating behavior?

Pics to follow - will I be in put in the same category as Kevin Federline?

Fall foliage in Washington, DC

Fall is here in the city!!! I am so excited. I was waiting for my personal limo (V5 metrobus) to go to work downtown and while waiting I spotted this beautiful tree in all it's glory. Fall has definitely arrived and it was so neat to see all of the orange, yellows and reds!! Wow, I love DC in the fall, sometimes it can get really gray and dark and the colors make it look 100% better. I am loving the weather right now. This is perfect knitting weather. Here are pictures of the tree (I took two pics of the same tree) . Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Weekend - Smeekend

This weekend my son Stefon was a drummer in Howard University Homecoming Parade. I was so excited for him. He is in the band at his school and he did a great job - if I may say so!!! It was a good turn out and his dad was so proud of him. I thought he was going to chase him through the parade. His aunts were just as bad, I will upload pictures at a later date.

This homeownership process is working my last nerve. I am trying to stay positive, but I am getting sick of the classes and the run around. These people are suppose to be working for you and it don't seem like it sometimes. I want to say f*&k it, but I know it will benefit our family. I guess I will be more appreciative once the house is mine.

Promises, promises - Mountains, Starsky, Spa & Sock Wars

Hello fellow non readers,

Here is a list of things I have done in the past two weeks.

Mountains

The last weekend of September was my boyfriends b-day and we decided to go back to the mountains (went in July) at Wintergreen Resorts (Blue Ridge Mountains) in Virginia. Living in Washington, DC can be very hectic and stressful sometimes, so it was nice to slow down a little and enjoy the beautiful view and amenities the resort has to offer. We went with another couple (his aunt and her partner). We had a ball in front of the fireplace and staying up late playing cards and enjoying each other company and of course plenty of alcohol. On the last day of the trip we went to the spa and received a couple massage. It was wonderful, it was my boyfriend and I, first massage and we will definitely do it again - it was so peaceful and tranquil. I have always wanted to get a massage and never had the opportunity or kept pushing it back. Look who else decided to ride along to the mountains.



STARSKY (back) & SCARFSTYLE - making a debut in the mountains on the back porch. Scarf style has beautiful scarves, I am just at awe with this book. I am trying to join the knitalong with no success. One day.....



One more mountain picture



SOCK WARS

As mentioned before I lost the war, battle, scuffle - whatever you want to call it. I was killed before even leaving the gates. I still had fun and will definitely do it again. Here is the sock I started for Sheri (couldn't complete, was sent an email declaring my death). I loved this pattern and am thinking about doing some socks for me. Well below, is a pic of it. I will take a picture and upload the killer socks I received in the mail.I was known in the sockwar realm as sockwarrior and did poorly, I was deceased before the weekend was over and did not complete one of my socks. Well here is a picture of the sock I was trying to complete so that I could get Sheri, but it was not meant to be Sk8tgrl got me - I must say a pleasant death, I will upload pictures of the socks later. So, here is my first attempt at sockwars, I will definitely be ready next year.

Okay, okay, I think I have redeemed myself from last week for not writing, I will write about this past weekend soon. Pretty boring though. Until next time - may the saga continue.......

Secretpal 9 Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I do not have a favorite yet, I can tell you what I have knit with so far and all have been good. Lorna Lace, Debbie Bliss, Jaegar, Knitpicks, Caron Simply Soft. I would say I don't care for the eyelash yarn.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? Right now, nothing.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? A little over two years. I learned from books and knitting videos online. I would say I am an intermediate now (I hope).
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No, but I am thinking about creating one
5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.) Vanilla, Cinnamon, Apple, Lavendar, Lilac
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes. Candy, chocolate with almonds - Cakes - lemon pound cake.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Scrapbooking, making cards. No, I dot know how to spin - would like to learn.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Jazz, R&B, Rap, Pop, some classical, Rock (some). Yes it can
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? I like all colors, if I had to pick one I like I would say earthy tones, green's, brown's, gray's, black.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I have been with the same guy for almost 15 years, we have three kids together and we are in the process of buying a home. No pets
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I love scarves. Will wear mittens and maybe a hat or poncho depending on how it looks.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I love knitting scarves and am falling for socks and moving into sweaters and I like it. Will do more.
13. What are you knitting right now? I am knitting Knittys Starsky
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? If it doesn't look handmade, I will love it. If it is constructed poorly, I will not like it.
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Depends on the project, I have not worked with bamboo, I have with wood. Aluminum had a better feel than plastic. Wouldn't mind trying rosewood or bamboo
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Do children legs/arms count? No.
17. How old is your oldest UFO? 3 months
18. What is your favorite holiday? Family holidays - Thanksgiving & Christmas
19. Is there anything that you collect? No
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Hum...... Book - Stitch Dictionary or good knitting reference book. Yarn: Cherry Hill Sock, Socks that Rock and Artful yarn, needles - Knitpick circular set or some rosewood needles. Patterns, I will have to think, so many to name.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? To design my own patterns, confidence in knitting socks and sweaters. Also to learn how to dye yarn.
22. Are you a sock knitter? Yes What are your foot measurements? 9-9.5 US, if you can not do 9.5, than 9 (10 will be too big).
23. When is your birthday? May 15th