KnittyScrapper

Resolution 1 complete!

2012-02-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

New Years resolution #1 is complete. I got my final CPA exam score Friday. A pleasing 89! I am thrilled to pieces. Took me 8 months which is not bad considering that I have a little one running around and I work full time. Wasn't easy but I made it work. Thankfully my husband stepped up to the plate with helping watch miss B. I could not have done it without having someone pick up the slack in that area. I barely get enough sleep now. So now all I have to do is take a 4 hour ethical webinar, get my working experience documentation, and submit my application! It will be a few months before I have that little piece of paper and before I can put those three important letters after my name but its finally here!!!!

So onto resolution #2 . . .running. I really slacked this week. Just too much going on . . nerved up about getting my results . . .next week I am back on the wagon and setting a better plan. Really want to run a half by June but depends on how much tax season is going to suck the wind out of me. I really thinks its going to cut into my schedule a bit so I may have to push off the half a bit.

Resolution #3 - Cooking from scratch. Well my husband being the brilliant man his is got me a zojirushi bread machine for Christmas. Now I have never really been a fan of bread machines but this one is absolutely amazing and I use it at least several times a week now.

For me it allows me to make things that I don't have time to do in my busy schedule without losing the healthy from scratch option I want.

I am still learning but I did pull off some oat bread last week and some yummy raisin bread . . .yummm!

The perfect water bottle

2012-01-29T04:41:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get myself to drink more water for years with no such luck. I hate leaving a cup around. . all the dust that gets in there and plastic bottles leave that plastic taste to your water. . .big yuck. Over the years I had purchased many plastic bottles . .all different brands and levels of BPA free. . .still that taste!

Until I discovered life factory water bottles. . .now I drink plenty of water . . my running has improved, my skin, my hair. . . water really makes a difference!

I discovered lifefactory bottles http://www.lifefactory.com/ when I was pregnant with Brooke and I was looking for an alternative to plastic baby bottles. A friend recommended the brand and right away I fell in love with them.

Not only are they stylish but the water tastes soooo much better! Everything is dishwasher safe, they have a silicone sleeve to protect the glass if you drop it. And the best part is they now have a sports tops for runners!

The first one I purchased had a screw off wide top which I learned to get use to while sitting but trying to run on the treadmill and drink was impossible. I have a hard enough time sitting in a chair not spilling it all over me (apparently there is a hole in my lip somewhere that I am still searching for). So now at least I have a smaller top to work with. . .this I can actually work with without getting all over me.

Note: I only use this at the gym, I never run with water . ..it slows me down and running with glass would be heavy and not recommended.

They have several differnt colors and even though pink is really not my typical color. . it reminds me of my daughter so I had to have pink. Pink is just her color and every time I look at it I think of her.

So if you haven't tried lifefactory water bottles . . .please do! They are a great company and sell a great product! I have enjoyed my first bottle for over a year now and my second one is even better. And it you are looking for an alternative to plastic baby bottle . . .I loved them as well and they now even have sippy tops to convert your old bottle to sippy cups. Now my daughter has her own water bottle to match mommy's:)

Back in the old routine and checking off the list!

2012-01-22T11:15:00.001-08:00

While anxiously awaiting my last test score (hopefully by February 3rd) I dusted off my running shoes once again. I sadly put these away a few months ago when I got to the peak of my running season last year. In October I was running at least 6 miles twice a week . . .which may not seem like a lot to some but from a girl that use to hate gym class. . .it was awesome! I felt amazing! But with the cold weather and my study & work schedule it just became impossible to get to the gym. We have no room for a treadmill in our house so I just gave it up until the exam was over.

So I broke out my sneaks and worked out a schedule so that even during tax season I am still getting to the gym 3 times a week. And boy what a great feeling. . .you grumble all the way there the first time or two but by the third time you start to feel like you need it as much as sleep.

10.5 miles for my first week . . .3, 3.5, & 4. Not bad at all. I was worried since it took me forever last year to get past 3 miles. . .but I finally learned to slow down if you want to go the distance and to not worry about the speed. . .speed will come later. So for now a 10 1/2 or 11 mile is good enough! I will get back to my 8 1/2 or 9 later.

And my noro blanket is coming together. . .one more square! How exciting! I love it already. I never would have thought I could get through an entire blanket and not hate it by the end. It must be the noro. . .you can’t hate noro!

Having time again

2012-01-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful thing time is:) My test is over and I am just waiting for my final results. The test itself felt really great. . I wasn't caught off guard by anything and I put a lot of study time in so hopefully all of my hard work this past year will pay off and I will finally have my CPA license.

And I am so thankful that I finally invested in Becker's CPA review. . .it really made the difference. Information was well organized and their study tips and tricks were just what I needed along with the lecture. I comprehend so much more in a lecture than by reading it myself. . .I need the stories and the funny jokes to really have it sink in. My hats off to them. They really put together a good quality product.

And although it is tax season, I have rearranged my schedule to allow for three days at the gym. . .two long work days and a Saturday work day. Other than that my time is my own. No bringing home work on the other days . . .those are for rest and Brookie time.

And I woke up this morning at 8! Oh how nice that felt. I feel like a new person. I haven't slept past 6 in years!

And finally my project for the past few weeks when I had 10 to 15 minutes to relax has been the paintbox log cabin blanket by Katherine Keyes. It has been so much fun. . .really! And even though it is a long and large project. . .I am not even fed up with it yet! 20 blocks, each a different skein of noro. . .what could be more fun! And it's just knitting. . .couldn't be more perfect to start when you just want to make something but don't have the brain power to handle something complicated. Hence why I started this during my final leg of the CPA exam. I really needed to have just a little knit time to release some tension but didn't want something complicated to frustrate me. And so here I am . . . on block 16 with 4 more to go before I put them together. . . .so exciting!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T18:42:00.000-08:00

I decided to actually make a few resolutions this year. . .

1. Pass my final CPA exam and obtain my license.

2. Get back to my running and actually run some races this year. I ran quite a bit last year but never ran an actual race . . . .this year I am shooting for a half-marathon. (as long as resolution 1 above is complete) :)

3. Actually do something with the craft stashes I have (knitting, spinning, sewing, & scrapbooking). I have stopped accumulating more stuff but I have not had any time in the past two years to actually put a dent in them. I would really like a more healthy crafting environment . . .not one that makes me feel guilty every time I open the door! (as long as resolution 1 above is complete . . .I should be good :)

4. Cook more from scratch. I actually do quite a bit of this now (especially baking) but I really want to expand this for my health and the health of my family. Like most things cooking from scratch takes time. . .something I have not had a lot of in the past few years.

So, with that in writing. . .let the new year begin! Officially only 8 days until exam day. . . .I can almost see those three letters at the end of my name . . .bring it on. I have worked hard and I am so ready for the challenge!

Off for my final review. . .until post exam day. . ttfn :)

Time flys. . .

2011-12-28T03:17:00.000-08:00

When you are having fun. . .December has come and gone in a blur . . .but boy was it fun. Passed number 3 of the CPA exam. . .almost ready to take number 4 . . . and the final exam (yahoo!). Had a blast baking cookies, breads, scones, and all sorts of goodies for Christmas gifts. I have really missed baking. . .so glad I picked it up again. I really look forward to the days of having time to REALLY bake. Especially with Brooke. She loves baking so much that we got her a kitchen set for Christmas so that she can bake with Mommy with her OWN pots and pans. The past few days have been filled with "baking" and "taste it". . . .baking does really come from the heart:)

In the middle of all this I was able to finish Brooke's Owlet sweater and take a photo shoot a few weeks ago. I really love this sweater. . .pattern was easy and its just so adorable on her. I highly recommend!

In the mist of all the studying and baking I was some how able to put together 50 Christmas cards this year. . .it was like a card production line and by the time it was over . . .I was carded out! Its was another "Dear Santa" on the outside. . .and on the inside it read. . ."Got Milk?"

I really hope that every Christmas card is this much fun. . . .so far its been such a blast. Now to come up with an idea for next year. . . . .oh boy!

Today is the day. . .

2011-11-25T10:31:00.000-08:00

the beginning of the Christmas season. That's right . . .I am at home in my woolies knitting, baking and listening to my Christmas play list. . . .oh so happy!! It's still hunting season . . .and I am actually not in a bad mood!

I absolutely love Christmas music! And I would have to say my all time favorite is the Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack. Being a big lover of jazz it is just the perfect mix of jazz and Christmas music.

So my bread is in the kitchen rising, Brookie is playing, and I am cozy knitting away on her owlet sweater while songs of cheer and chestnuts roasting are in the air :)

Completed Cowl

2011-11-20T06:28:00.000-08:00

A finished project! In all this craziness that is my life I am surprised I can finish anything these days. Hunting season is in full force which makes my life a living nightmare not to mention making me as ugly as a bear woken in the middle of hibernation. Especially this year with all the added work stress, CPA exam stress, and Brooke being at the age where she is into everything and pushing my every button. Oh how I can't wait for the new year. . .even though it will be the start of tax season . . .the exam will hopefully be over, I will not be doing any bookkeeping duties and more . ..and hunting season will be OVER!

Sorry, . . . .back to the happy place. The Chickadee Cowl really came out nice I think. Really bummed I have to give it away but it was a fun knit so I can make one for myself. Love this colors. . .especially the white alpaca which has a nice fuzzy softness that adds a nice elegance to the piece.

And the stitch . . .looks almost woven doesn't it. An enjoyable and recommended knit.

Cables and Cowls

2011-11-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

Well its now almost one week post exam number three and I am finally getting over the head cold that developed right before the exam. I thought for sure I would getting up every five minutes to blow my nose during the exam or rescheduling . . .but thankfully it gave me a small break to take my exam. The following week it revisited to knock me around again for good measure . . .I guess?

The exam I hope went well. I never have a good feeling walking out of there because there is so much that goes into the grading of that exam and you just never know. Hopefully all the hard work I have been putting in will pay off this time just like the last two and I will only have one more left to take in January. Then I can have my life back again.

This weekend thankfully was a three day weekend which allowed me to catch up on some much needed sleep and lounge time. Brooke and I decided to spend the weekend in . . .resting, cuddling, knitting, sewing, baking, and watching a lot of Mikey Mouse and Elmo . . .awe . . good weekend!

Last week I did manage to finish a quick hat for Brooke out of some left over Debbie Bliss scraps. Used 110 stitch cast on, completed a rolled edge and then set up a 10 stitch cable pattern that I altered between a 7 row color change.

It was quick but not brainless and matches perfectly with her jacket. She likes it and is actually pretty good about keeping it on if you ask nicely.

This hat reminded me of all the planning homemade gifts that I need to start working on. Below is a cowl I started the night of the exam in my hotel room to relax before going to bed. Pattern is the Chickadee cowl but it has been altered per the instructions from yayayarn on Ravelry. I like it so much that I will probably have a hard time giving it away. Good thing its for a really close friend.

The stitch pattern is a knit one, slip one (wyif) on one row and slip one (wyif), knit one on the next row. Gives it a woven texture that is really elegant.

Still not sure I want to give this away???? I really like it!

An enjoyable knit or two

2011-10-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Brooke and I had a wonderful trip to the NY Sheep & Wool this past weekend. I barely noticed the yarn or fibers because I was so busy chasing her around the sheep barns. We really had a great time. I left with my best knitting bud, two skeins of beautiful yarn, and a happy sleeping baby dreaming of jumping sheep. What more could you ask for in a perfect day:)

Later that night just before bedtime she had two stuff animal sheep in her arms and said . . ."mama. . .two sheep!". Not bad for an 18 month old. Sheep are not only great for knitting but for counting as well.

So this weekend I finished snowbird by Heidi Kirrmaier. Really easy pattern to follow, knit from the top-down so you can try it on as you go and tailor to your own shape. I chose Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed. Yarn is soft and has beautiful flex of color throughout for a nice tweed look. This yarn has a nice feel to wear and work with and I think it will hold up nicely over the years.

With this project finished I decided to go with something that would have a little more speed coming off my needles and a little more portable as well. I am at the half way point in my race for my CPA license so Topiary by Michele Wang seemed like a good fit. Yarn is the suggested Brooklyn Tweed Shelter. This is a really great yarn. Colors are to die for and the feel is a good soft quality wool. I am very impressed and would buy this yarn again in the future for sure.

Vacation in the air. . .

2011-10-14T06:31:00.000-07:00

Yum. . nothing like the smell of vacation. .

Lemon poppy seed bundt cake via:

http://thefarmchicks.typepad.com/farmchicks/2010/05/lemon-poppy-seed-bundt-cake.html

Looks fabulous but we will have to wait for the taste test. Off to visit my very best craft buddy this weekend with little Miss Brooke. Should be a blast since it has been months since we have seen each other. I know Miss B is excited for a road trip. . .just look at that face :)

I Did It! Two down!

2011-09-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

I did it! Woohoo! Test number two of the CPA exam is in the history books. And the beast of the four test to boot! An absolute amazing feeling . . .the best high ever! I will start studying for BEC this week and continue on to hopefully complete the other two exams before tax season starts. That is my goal anyway. . .put this behind me and then just enjoy life and work for a little while. Lots of people ask me . . well whats next? Well at someone point I would like to either get my masters or teach but at this point . . .I need a break and my daughter needs me. I really want to spend this valuable time with her. I will just be glad to get this important goal behind me. Its been one hell of a year that is for sure!

With the leaves changing and cool temperatures creeping up. . .I have really got the knitting bug again. . . .can't help myself! I find myself dreaming of sitting in my favorite chair with my knitting in my lap and my tea or coffee on the stand beside me. . all cozy and happy!

Snowbird pattern by Heidi Kirrmaier which can be purchased on ravelry. Easy to follow instructions. Love the collar line, knitting from the top down, size 6, dk weight. I am using some Jo Sharp silk road dk that I purchased at webs a few years ago. My favorite part is that I can continue to try it on as I knit because you complete the sleeves before the body. I have to admit. . .I have tried it on several times already and can not wait for it to be finished. . .I think it will become my new favorite sweater.

That time of year again.. .

2011-09-20T09:18:00.001-07:00

. . .you know the time of year. . . when you wake up to cool crisp air. . .you pick apples in the orchard . .your home is filled the smell of homemade apple pie and all you want to do is snuggle up under a blanket with your knitting. . .oh how I LOVE fall!

The three of us ventured out to Douglas Orchards in Shoreham, VT on Saturday. We usually go once a year because you can pick your own and they have all sorts of other kid friendly things going on. Luckily this year we went early and thus. . .we can go again!

Brooke's second year of apple picking went well. . .she loved it! A little too much actually. The only way we could convince her to leave was to give her an apple to eat for the ride home.

Sunday was filled with baking an apple pie and my first crust all from scratch and lots of knitting. Brooke and I actually snuggled for quite a while on the couch. . .she loves Elmo. .I love to knit. . .together it is just the perfect afternoon :)

Ya - I know, suppose to be studying but I just can't bring myself to get serious again until I get that FAR score back. . .its almost that time. . .come on 75!

Before and After

2011-08-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

A very productive day yesterday. Started out with a 7 mile run with my best friend down the rail trail from Castleton to Poultney. Great run. . felt fabulous and had no trouble finishing. Feel it a little today but not bad . .the good kind of hurt.

Spent the late morning and afternoon studying for the next section of the CPA exam (BEC) while my husband and daughter were off watching the triathlon in Burlington. Studying went well. . got some terms to cram in my head but so far its actually quite interesting. (sick as that may be to some)

Then in the afternoon I quickly whipped together some curtains for my kitchen window. Nothing fancy since we plan to sell the house next spring and move to Rutland so that we can spend more time with Brooke outside the car. Last weekend I purchased some inexpensive fabric from Jo-Ann's with my coupon and within 1.5 hours I had something I was happy with.

1 yard of fabric
1/2 inch hems on all 4 sides
2 inch rod hem one of the longest sides

Before:

After:
Well I like it anyway:) Not a good picture but this lightening in my kitchen is hard to play with for photos. . .I tried every which way and could not get a clear photo . ..lights off . . .too dark. . .lights on too blurry. . .I gave up.

Started my journey for better balance . .

2011-08-20T13:50:00.001-07:00

One of the important things I thought about while on vacation was how to become more balanced in my life. For years I have struggled with trying to do it all . . and of course at lightening speed. Sometimes I am quite successful at it and bounce to the next level and other times I completely flop and take months to recover from my failure.

I think my greatest flaw and strength is that I hold myself to a pretty high standard. . . ."Perfection". It can be the most rewarding feeling when everything comes together in perfect harmony but when it doesn't, my self critical little side kick always chimes in to remind me how much I have failed.

But now that I am getting older I am starting to realize that we all are human! We all make mistakes and the important thing is to learn from them. Its important to take risk and to fail to keep you grounded and to also enjoy the rewards of those successes that do work out.

I find myself asking all the time . . "How to they do it?" . . ."they do so much" . . ."they never look exhausted". . . ."they seem to have it all!" Well, they don't really. There is only so much time and so much energy. Its an image they create . . .just like the perfect lives of all your friends on facebook. This is not Pleasantville and why would you want it to be?

What got me to thinking about all this was reading "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert http://www.elizabethgilbert.com/eatpraylove.htm It's really a great read that I highly recommend. Very witty and inspiring. Her journey to find balance really inspired me to live life a little fuller and to try and find some balance in my life. I may fail a few times in my journey to relax and enjoy life more rather than accomplish EVERYTHING yesterday . . but hey failure is OK!

So in this new search for balance. . what did I do on vacation?

1. Baked - I really have missed baking. . it's relaxing, challenging, and YUMMY! This is also one of my favorite things to do with Brooke. My mom baked with me as a kid and even though she is young she loves to watch and is really interested. An amazing bonding moment for us.

2. Running - I got up early in the morning and ran with Barley quite a bit on vacation (23.5 miles) in total while on vacation for that matter. I really love it and its so rewarding and good for you. We have a great rail trail by our house and being outside and the fresh air early in the morning was just heaven :) Some people meditate. . I think my meditation is running . . really clears my mind and relieves all the built up stress I carry.

3. Reading - read two fabulous books over vacation (Eat, Pray, Love and The Help). Can't say enough good things. Just pick them up and read them!

4. Crafting -

finished this cute little number for Brooke. . .fits great and she really likes it. Took her to the Beer, Wine, and Cheese festival in Middlebury and had a great time. Great wine, great food, great company. . .just a really nice evening. Hope to have more family outings like this in the future for sure.

Brooke in her "backpack" and her Papa. If you have a little one, get a backpack and get them outside. . she loves it and is constantly asking to go in the backpack. . its one of her favorite words:)

Brooke and I reading. . .my cute little bookworm.

I did knit a little but not enough to finish a project (but that is ok!). I mostly sewed because it was hot and what I felt like doing. I actually finished pillow cases and the Amy Butler Cabo Halter http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=23 . . I just have not had time for photos yet. (but that is ok!) I will get there. . .at my own speed:)

What didn't I do on vacation? Work, Study, Stress, Worry . . .oh it was great! And yes, I did have to come back to reality but a better balanced reality with hopefully better focus, understanding, and boundaries.

A breath of fresh air

2011-07-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

With my nose crammed in CPA exam review books. . . the weeks have seem to just fly by. Thankfully I now have a three week break and an entire weeks vacation in the middle of all that!

Even though its been a struggle juggling work, Brooke (who is now walking and into EVERYTHING!), along with managing a household and studying . . it really has been worth all the effort. I passed my first exam with a 91 (Auditing). And I just took the second (Financial Accounting and Reporting) on Monday. I will not know that score for weeks but I feel like I have at least enough to hopefully pass. Its the longest and hardest due to the amount of material. So I am 25% to CPA . . maybe 50% . . .lets hope!

Brooke has been growing and developing into the sweetest little person. I really do just adore her. I really look forward to showing and teaching her things when she gets a little older . . .our bond has grown so strong in the past six months. When she was born I was very unsure of myself . . .I am not a baby person . . .I never have been, but now that we are getting past all of that yucky baby stuff . . .oh it really is a treasure to have her around.
On the crafting front, working on finishing a sweater for Brooke (just needs buttons), started a wrap for me, and I have an outfit for Brooke cut and half sewn. Pictures to come . .maybe tomorrow on my lunch break since I am working on CPE from home tomorrow with Miss B. Thinking about making some cupcakes tomorrow as well. . .really have an addiction to making cupcakes for some reason . . they are just so cute. . little miniature cakes:)

A hat for Brooke

2011-05-31T17:25:00.001-07:00

With one weekend left before starting my study plan for the next exam I decided to make something for Brooke. This hat, with left over scraps of Amy Butler fabric was quick, easy, and fun. Its reversible which is also nice. I really can't wait to make her the entire outfit with the Moda fabric I purchased on Saturday. And believe it or not. . .this is the only hat she doesn't take off immediately.

Birthday Cake a Success!

2011-05-08T13:23:00.001-07:00

From scratch yellow cake (Best Ever Birthday Cake - from http://smittenkitchen.com/2009/07/best-birthday-cake/. Came out great and will definitely file that one away in my receipe box. It was also the first time I played with fondant . . which i really love! It opens up so many options for decorating that you just can't do with regular butter cream. And if you don't like the taste you can flavor it with extract.

Also made some cute lady bug cupcakes so she would have her own little cake to make a mess of.

Now some people would say I went over the top a little but hey. . .some of my favorite memories with my mom are the great cakes she use to make for us. Besides I love her to pieces and she is worth it right? :)

Happy 1st Birthday!

2011-04-27T10:14:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday baby girl! One year ago today you changed my life. I hope I have made you as happy as you have made me. . xoxoxo!

Crazy week but I did squeeze in . . .

2011-02-22T01:57:00.000-08:00

Lots of deadlines this week and next so I have been straight out. I did however in the middle of everything squeeze out two projects. . .not sure I slept this week. . .can't remember

Lime Cupcakes for the office. It was our Administrative Assistants birthday. These were fabulous! Could still use some tequila I think. . .maybe tequila frosting for April 16th??? Recipe via http://www.lanascooking.com/2010/01/22/lime-cupcakes/

And I was up Friday night making this quick gift for my mother-in-law's birthday. Simple bag from Last-Minute Patchwork & Quilted Gifts. Simple yet a really nice gift. Since my mother-in-law reads a lot I thought a nice travel bag for a book with a bookmark with the cutest little baby there ever was on it was a great gift idea. I just used card stock wrapped with fabric for the book mark with some very fashionable stampin up ribbon and a scrapbook accessory punched through on the top.

Happy Valentine's Day :)

2011-02-14T02:25:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

New project! Lace Twist Mitts by Debbie O'Neill from the Fall 2009 Knitscene. Yarn is Dream in Color Classy. Only one skein. Now that it is getting lighter I can knit on the way to work . . .hooray! Carpooling isn't such a bad thing after all :)

Entrelac Scarf

2011-02-06T18:07:00.000-08:00

A nice afternoon with a nice Noro entrelac scarf. Not a lot going on here but tax returns. This week seemed to be over before I had a chance to blink. . oh well. . just means it is closer to April 15th . ..independence day!

Budgeting time

2011-01-30T04:48:00.001-08:00

Budgeting my time has always been a struggle for me. These days its even more of a challenge. Tax season is in full throttle, I have a 9 month old this year, and I am trying to study for am exam in April. How do we accomplish all this and not end up at the crazy farm you might ask? Well, I bought this book on time management a few months ago to not find any easy answer but to get some key tips. One of the most important things I picked up from this book as to make a list of the top three things you want to accomplish that day. You can have more than three but in reality those top three are the most important and the only guaranteed ones you will accomplish that day. So far this little trick has worked for me. Keeps me focused. . I will always have my list of long term goals and plans but this weeds it down to a manageable level. It has been working . . .I have been more productive at work and getting there on the home front.

Today's list includes: 1. Cutting out the pieces for my next bag. Another Amy Butler Birdie Sling bag out of Amy Butler fabric this time. . .just for little old me :)

check! Number one is off the list. Now on to the next.

2. Knit for an hour and just relax. I put in 9 billable hours yesterday. . I need a little break or I will crack by April 15th. I have my favorite side kick today and she likes to watch mommy knit. Especially when she is sitting in my lap with a bottle. She pets the item I am knitting as a comfort tool for going to sleep.

3. And three. . hit the books. I don't plan on taking this auditing exam until April so I have time and I am taking it slow. . actually enjoying it. I do enjoy auditing and I have so much exposure to it that this is mostly a refresher and the new things I am picking up are really helping me in the field. Becker is definitely the best out there for CPA exam review. . I enjoy and look forward to studying. . that has never happened before!

Well I better get to number 2 & 3 before the day is over :)

Easy projects to get me through my head cold

2011-01-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

My poor brain was hit with a nasty head cold this week. With that said I really needed a break from difficult projects. I picked up an entrelac scarf I started over a year ago and began working on finishing that. . I find entrelac easy and since it is just a scarf. . it's just the right knitting project for me.

I also decided to make a quick fabric basket for my brother's girlfriend this weekend since her birthday is coming up soon and it requires mailing. Something that takes me a while to do since the post office hours do not always work with my schedule. I made her a little make-up bag for Christmas and saved the scraps. . .perfect size scraps for this cute little basket. All I need to do now is get some lotion . . make a card and off to the post office we go. See here for tutorial. . .
http://ayumills.blogspot.com/2008/05/tutorial-fabric-basket.html

Of course the basket had to go through a very tough inspection. . .which I think passed. . .she seemed impressed . . .but knows this really was not a challenge for me. I think she wants those fabric rings I promised her. . .still don't know if I am ready for that yet. . .eeek!

Well off to study . . .getting that CPA exam out of the way this year. Maybe I can get Brooke to hold my flash cards??? . . second thought. . .maybe not:)

Finally a finished project!

2011-01-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

I am sooooo excited to finally finish a project. . .and have it turn out perfect!!! Oh what a wonderful feeling!!! And I have to give some credit to my little helper. . if it wasn't for her hard work and support . . .mommy would have never made it! What a good little girl:) She even squealed with excitement and flapped her arms when I asked what she thought!

I think she might be excited just thinking of all the things I can make her later when she is big enough to make requests!

the inside large pocket of the birdie sling bag. . i will say the pattern instructions are very well written. I am very new to sewing and I was able to follow along without any trouble.

Fabric by Moda. I am not sure what pattern line. . .I happened to see it at Knits & Bolts in New Haven and thought this would be the perfect colors for a bag. Can't wait until next weekend when I can start another one. . now that I have been through all the steps and can relax knowing that I am doing it right.

The finished product. . .eeeek. . .I am just so thrilled with how it came out! Hats off to Amy Butler on this pattern!

A New Year. . .

2011-01-09T04:27:00.001-08:00

2011 is finally here and what joy it brings. 2010 was a wonderful year because a beautiful little girl was brought into my life . . . but a tough year as well. Change, although it may be a wonderful thing. . . is not always easy. I love my little pumpkin with all my heart and I am so glad she is here . . but you couldn't pay me a million dollars to do that over again. . .no way.

And changing. . .oh is she ever! Things happen so quickly. . .like a switch being turned on. It is so amazing how one day she struggles to pull herself up onto the foot stool and then the next day its as if she has done it a million time before. What little sponges they are. . I look forward so much to her talking and teaching her things.

2011 brings more time for projects. . .with little Brooke growing and playing by herself for short periods of time I am starting to have little tiny bits of free time. I anticipate my sewing skills expanding this year. . .like knitting it just takes time to build those skills.

Planning Christmas and birthday projects early this year too. I purchased this moda fabric yesterday at knits and bolts to make my sister the Amy Butler Birdie Sling bag. . .I spent Christmas this year making little make up bags. They were simple but a little challenge since it required learning how to put in a zipper. I made about 15 of them and now I am ready for another challenge.

On the knitting front. . .I started this just after I went back to work from maternity leave in July. I have been working on it here and there for months but it is now coming along quite well. The pattern is Tallulah from the Rowan "Lima Collection". I purchased the lima yarn at webs since it is quite expensive. However, I really like the yarn and the color "Amazon" is just amazing in the natural light. . my photo does not do it justice at all. This pattern is challenging but fun. . .lots of baby cables and bobbles and I am excited about making a hood. . .I have never done this before. I really look forward to photographing it outside in good light when its finished.

Happy Holidays!

2010-11-29T02:19:00.001-08:00

Our first holiday with our little pumpkin. Such a fun time . . .and busy time. This Christmas is definitely going to be a blast . . .and a challenge at the same time . . . how do I get all those gifts done with some one tugging at my ankles?

Working on a lot of sewn Christmas gifts this year. . .I learned to put in a zipper a few weeks ago and now I am on a sewing bag fetish. Especially since it uses up a lot of my scraps from Brooke's crib bedding.

Sorry for the bad iPhone photo. A quick little change purse that I whipped up. . .takes just an hour. Great since my daughter is not a napper. . .you get a hour once a day if you are lucky. . .but hey. .at least she sleeps through the night!

This weekend we get the tree and I am not quite sure how this is going to go with a little carpet creeper around. .especially after I wrapped lights around her for a Christmas photo. . .I could regret that move . . .even if it is too cute for words.

Look what I found in the pumpkin patch

2010-10-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

. .Only the sweetest little pumpkin ever! What a beautiful fall day! I just love this time of year in Vermont. Our little pumpkin is getting big. . which means for now I am getting a little more free time to myself than I have in months. We now multi-task together. . I unload the dishwasher and she holds her bottle! Hooray!

Of course we had to squeeze time in to make her a pumpkin hat. . .every baby has to have a pumpkin hat. Made with orange Sublime merino dk and a little Dream in Colors classy for the stem which I had left over from another project.

Can't say that motherhood is easy but I can say that it definitely has its perks . . and today was one of those days!

Monday morning smile :)

2010-07-12T03:12:00.001-07:00

So little time. . .so little

2010-07-11T11:52:00.001-07:00

Back to work at the office on July 1st. . .which is like heaven!!! I really do love my daughter but I can't spend all day with her . . .every day. . I need adult conversation. . .project accomplishment (sorry changing a diaper just don't cut it for me). I am a much better part-time mom than a full-time one (not afraid to admit that). Hats off to those who do it full-time. . that's amazing but no way possible for me. She's in a great daycare (a good friend of mine) and its perfect for her and me so everyone is happy. . .well except for this past week. . it was hot and no one was happy. . this little girl takes after mommy and does not like the heat at all! Cranky butt!

So its back to work, back to studying (CPA exam), going to the gym, and on top of that . . bookkeeping for the yarn shop, taking care of Brooke, the house. . .oh and way down a the very bottom of that list is fun time . . .most of the time I don't even make it there. . but I keep telling myself I will get there. Just thankful that I have a husband that helps or I would never get there. . .I wouldn't get half way through that list!

Well I did finish another project I started prior to her arrival a few weeks ago. . this little ballerina number is from a sublime book and out of their baby cashmerino. . . very cute. . and yes I should have ironed it again before I took this photo but hey. . I have like minutes sometimes before she screams for me to be at her beckon call. . .ya that is right. . that is what she thinks sometimes and occasionally the two of us go head to head.. .you see I am very stubborn too!

Started this project the night before I went to the hospital to have my blood pressure checked and they wouldn't let me go home without a baby in hand. Spent the night and most of the day the next morning before the induced me working on it. . .all the nurses and doctors were loving it. . and some of them were even knitters!. . .it was good to know I had some knitters on my medical team. I finished it a few weeks after she was born but haven't had time to take photos or post it. Sheep - from the Never Not Knitting blog. Great pattern! When she is a little older I want to make her the stripes cardigan out of Debbie bliss from the same site.

Now all I need is to order the sheep buttons and take some photos this fall. . .I am thinking this will be her apple picking sweater.

And now that she is getting older she is a little more cooperating. Brookie helping mommy on the 4th of July with her yarn while we wait for the fireworks to start. She's a pretty good helper but hasn't graduated to having needles just yet. She does like to watch the needles move and hold the yarn. . .a future knitter for sure :)

And finally a finished project this month! Although not for me or Brooke it is nice to finally finish something. Sam from the Wee Knits 2 Mission Falls book - a gift for my friend Jess who is having her second baby next month.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-06-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

Happy 7th Anniversary. . .wow has time gone by fast. . a new puppy, a house, and now a baby. . .it just keeps getting better :) Thanks for 7 great years and many more to come.

Mommy finished my quilt & I had visitors!

2010-06-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Rita and Cadence came to visit yesterday . . .Cadence got to feed Brooke and hold her. . .Rita had to beg Cadence to share her. . .she just loved her to pieces!

Shoes from Great Grandma Teddy. Aren't they cute!

Finally finished Brooke's quilt. . .just had the binding to finish . . .came out ok for a first quilt. . .but there are some bumps in the sewing and its far from perfect that is for sure. But its a learning process. . .she loves it though . . .so that is all that matters. So glad I went with the minkie!

Back to Work

2010-06-12T21:58:00.000-07:00

Brooke's Monkey Face :)

Well it was back to work this week. . .well half the week and I am working from home until July 1st and then its back to the office and Brooke to Trena's during the day.

Can't say I don't miss work. . .because its who I am but I will miss her too. Its a very struggling feeling. ..work has always been my first baby and now I have a second baby. . . crazy it is.
Brooke at six weeks in the outfit that daddy picked out just for her right before she was born. A little big but it won't be long before it doesn't fit anymore. . . .we are already out of a number of outfits and into some 3 to 6 months but it depends on brand. ..just like adult clothing. .one store you wear one size and another a different size. . .thats why I love the Banana Republic and not Old Navy. . . .wear 6 vs a 10 . . .hmmmmm big difference!

First Photo shoot

2010-05-06T13:27:00.001-07:00

Trena came over yesterday and a took our first "professional" photo shoot. Its nice to have someone with talent and a great camera as a friend to take photos of you so you can actually be in the photos. Plus I am still learning how to work all the bells and whistles of my camera and its great to have someone show you that knows what they are doing.

Thanks Trena! Can't wait to see the others.

Brooke's Arrival . . .8 lbs 3 oz . . 20 1/2 inches of pure sweetness

2010-05-04T01:19:00.000-07:00

ya be back later . . . can't resist snuggling with a face like that! Could you?

6 more weeks!

2010-04-01T02:40:00.001-07:00

Only 6 more weeks. . .more or less. . never can tell. Tell that to my swollen feet! Love this dress its so cute! Made from Rowan 4ply soft (3.5 skeins). Changed from a ribbon tie to a button tie and just crocheted a loop in the back for a closure. I just couldn't find ribbon to match and I don't have time for shopping outside of Rutland right now. . .Rutland just have horrible shopping for the most part. We have a fabulous yarn shop but that is it!

I have a pink simple debbie bliss sweater almost finished and a sublime sweater I just started. Oh ya and I still have the quilt to finish and bibs and toys . . .good thing tax season is almost over. . .getting down to the wire!

Step 2 & 3

2010-03-30T02:48:00.000-07:00

Steps 2 & 3 now complete. . .hooray! Big stress off my plate. But I had to call in for reinforcements. . .I was in waaaaaay over my head. Thankfully Julie was there to save the day and put most of this together for me. Directions are written assuming you know a lot of sewing knowledge and cutting the large pieces . . .that would have put me right over the edge. . especially with my back bothering me. Its extremely frustrating to try to cut fabric when your back hurts and you move the fabric with your belly every time you lean over the table! So annoying!

Thankfully I waved my little white flag and Julie stepped up to the plate. There is no way I would have got all this done by myself in the middle of tax season. . .just no way! I sent her home with the crib skirt and I am working on the quilt. And I can finish my bibs! Just like me. . .buy 40 projects in advance! Could be worse habits though!

Step 1 . . .Complete!

2010-03-15T02:18:00.000-07:00

The pillow - Amy Butler fabric and Amy Butler pattern.

Took me just a few hours. . .I am a slow at this still but at least taking my time pays off. Step 2 is the fitted sheet. Julie will be here next weekend to hold my hand through that one. I am going to try and get the pieces all cut out and pinned by Saturday.

I am very happy with the fabric and the colors. . .everything is finally starting to come together! Hooray!

Making progress. . .

2010-03-10T02:29:00.001-08:00

Brooke's room started out slow but it is coming along and looks so happy and bright!

from a flowered Grandma print to . . . .

happy green! This color matches perfectly with the Amy Butler fabric I picked out for her bedding.

All of the furniture is in. . .just need to make the bedding, finish decorating and we are good to go. . .I have about 9 weeks give or take a few. . .but only 4 weeks left of tax season and then I can really get things done!

little baby . . .BIG LOVE!

2010-02-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

I wish I could say this photo idea was my own but I took it off from the sixoneseven website. I just loved the idea and I wanted to use this photo in my shower invites.

Yes I am extremely involved in the planning of my own baby shower. . .hey. . you can't let a stamper not design their own invites. . .and its tax season. . good luck trying to get me to some place without telling me. Plus I really wanted a Jack and Jill shower so that Joel was involved. Its about us and not just me.

See what can happen kids when you swallow those watermelon seeds! Just kidding baby Brooke is growing along nicely. . .moving a lot! But I have found that baby Mozart calms her and puts her to sleep. . .keeping notes for later:)

And of course Barley can't wait to meet her new play buddy. I think she knows!

Time for the girl stuff!

2010-01-24T10:36:00.000-08:00

Now that we found out we are having a girl. . .its time to break out those girl projects - woohoo!

I love girl stuff. . its so much better than boy stuff. This is the tulip sweater purchased as a kit from Green Mountain Fibers. I changed the tie edging for the front to one with buttons and then added these danforth pewter buttons. . .love them!

I only have one day off a week now until April 15th . . so off to start a new project. ttfn

Progress!

2010-01-11T02:24:00.000-08:00

Progress is coming . . .slowly but its coming! I finally got the top to my first baby quilt done yesterday. No pattern . . just made it up. Now I am patiently waiting for my walking foot attachment to arrive so I can quilt this with some lilac minkie.

My pregnancy in also moving along smoothly. . .no problems (besides the normal aches and pains and some sleepless nights). . .just the depressing loss of my belly button which is almost nonexistent at this point. I don't know why this disturbs me so much. . it comes back. I can't help it . . I feel like a thanksgiving turkey. Luckily I am maintaining the ideal weight so far. . .I watch it pretty closely. Lots of fruit and veggies. ..this kid can't get enough fruit! I had an Odwalla juice yesterday and I think I could have licked the bottle! Some more of those will be on my shopping list this afternoon.

Nursery demolition has begun. . .all the wallpaper is down and now Joel is repairing some walls (pleasure of an old house). . .three layers of wallpaper and some patch jobs that can haunt you it you are painting rather than wallpapering.

I am going with an Amy Bulter theme making all of her bedding (huge project) which I can hopefully start this weekend. I always bite off more than I can chew. . go and go big. It wouldn't be me if I didn't push my limits. The room will be a green to match the fabric with pink and chocolate brown. I am also putting up a stampin' up wall deco tree behind her crib with some words of wisdom . . .not sure what those words are just yet. . .but they will come to me.

Where have I been?

2009-10-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

Where have I been? . . . for the past month and a half? Well I have been sick every day all day, moody, tired all the time, irrational to the point of scaring my husband I think . . .yes I am pregnant. . .not going off the deep end . . there is a legitimate excuse for my behavior. I am ten weeks along and due May 13th . . our plan worked too. . .just after tax season and back for College audit season! Woohoo!

Although I am still quite early everything seems to be going well I have all the symptoms in the book. We were able to hear the baby's heartbeat on Friday which was very exciting! He literally touched the device to my stomach and there the heartbeat was. . .no search involved at all. . .and it sounded very strong! Everything looks great! We are thrilled since we have been a little nervous since it is quite early but after hearing a heartbeat it really feels real.

I have also been stewing . . .trying to decide where to deliver. The two runners are Dartmouth or Bennington. Rutland is so out. I just don't feel safe there for various reasons and I want to feel safe and happy and I want the best. My plan is to tour both facilities, I like the idea of water birth and or water labor which to me seem relaxing for both the mom and the baby. Both hospitals have these options so I am going to tour both sites before making my decision. Unfortunately I have to switch from my obgyn which I have had for years but I if that is what I have to do so be it.

Now my crafting. . .

this is it. . .I haven't knitted in weeks. . .haven't sewn, haven't scrapped, haven't stamped. Just haven't had the desire . . .I have been glued to the couch with my preggie pops and water.

Thankfully the first trimester is almost over and I am starting to feel more ambitious these days. I actually put all the laundry away this weekend and did some much needed cleaning. Good thing there is only two of us and we don't generate that much dirt.

Itunes users . . .just beware to make sure your account is not set up to your bank account. I have had my account for years. . and i love itunes but someone hacked into my e-mail, got itunes to send an e-mail to change my password, changed my password and my e-mail notification and charged $420 in songs to my account. Thankfully I noticed it and shut them down before they drained our checking and savings. . .but now I am out $420 for a while. Make sure you have your account set to a credit card since these are monitored more heavily by the credit card companies and if it does happen you don't get stuck waiting to get your money back. Its a pain . . trust me!

Well that's all for now. . .off to make my little sweet pea some lunch and maybe just knit something today . . . .can't wait until I have a sex to knit for. I am very board with unisex stuff!

Keep the vision

2009-08-31T01:49:00.000-07:00

of mustard yellow with cream cabinets. . .don't get caught up in the blue. . .really . . .follow it through. Now I know Joel isn't impressed but it will come together in the end. . .I can see it.

now I personally love the color but then I love sunflowers and it reminds me of the 18th century. What can I say. . it is just me. But then again. . some people like the baby blue and it makes me want to vomit.

I did sneak in the start of the cabinet buts I haven't finished one yet. . .will work at night this week for a preview.

Never know what you will find . .

2009-08-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

in old houses . . . although stripping wallpaper is never fun. . .seeing what's underneath is always interesting.

Now that the porch is painted we shifted gears to the kitchen. Remember the ugly yellow and blue striped wallpaper with flowers? Well now we get to spend a week looking at this . . .

Doesn't that just look smashing with the baby blue! Don't worry. . .those are going soon. My favorite home improvement store Nail It Down is mixing me up a very nice mustard yellow and once that is done those cabinets are turning butter cream. The kitchen will make you hungry just by looking at it.

I also think the yellow will bring out the stainless steel appliances that we are acquiring one by one. Like the refrigerator. . .sorry stove. . you'll have to wait a little while :( But I love this refrigerator. . having the freezer on the bottom is really the way to go. . .and the double doors and all the temp controls. . .just amazing.

So we accomplished this all this morning. Yesterday I spent the day entertaining friends with a Stampin' up workshop . . .lots of fun. . .I even got out my kits to go from Trena and worked on them last night and early this morning (up at 4 am. . .couldn't sleep).

So cute! Just a few more to go. Well that is all. . .I am wiped! ttfn.

The right buttons?

2009-08-09T14:21:00.001-07:00

Top-down Raglan (used pattern adjustments from sixoneseven blog)

Size: Newborn

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino

Ribbon: by Stampin Up

Happy to say I finished this latest number is less than a week. However, I am still unable to find the right buttons. They must be unisex and can not be too heavy . . . so my favorite Danforth pewter are out. Any ideas?

Slow improvements

2009-08-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

Slowly we are making our way to completing those summer home improvement projects. I finished the trim in the living room this weekend. Joel got the porch primed and we started painting. Unfortunately the weather has intervened with that today but it looks great so far.When we first bought this house I really wished the porch was bigger . . but now that I am painting it. . .I am really glad that it doesn't wrap around the house. Painting it yourself can really change your perspective. Barley isn't much help with painting but she is great at scraping . . . .

And now that the living room trim is complete. . .the next project is the kitchen. The wallpaper is so not me. I have picked out a nice mustard seed yellow to replace this. . .

and for now I am painting the cabinets a cream color until we can save enough money to replace them all. I might change the hardware to a polished nickel too. At least that will give them a face lift.

We are suppose to buy a new stove next month (I have been holding out until the tax holiday - which is the 22nd for purchases under $2000). But now the refrigerator is giving us a hard time so we might be replacing that instead. We shall see. .it is kind of on life support right now and things are not looking good :( Either way one by one. . .they will all be replaced to stainless steel to someday go with the cherry cabinet plans I have.

On the knitting front. I am almost finished with the top down raglan that I started last week. . .very quick and mindless. I just need to find buttons, block it, and take photos. I also started a seed stitch hoodie out of superwash cascade 220. . need to take some photos of that also. Love the color! Well off to have lunch, clean up, then work for a little while. ttfn

I'm Back!

2009-07-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

for real this time. I have been slacking for several reasons. . .studying. . .sewing. . . .painting. . .but mostly just being lazy and not wanting to be on the computer.

I am really going to try to post something once a week. How else to people know I am alive. . .they never see me :)

So here it is Rita-roo. . .a post . . . and a completed project. I started the sweet pea right before I left for a short vacation in Maine. It is out of Queensland Bebe Cotton/Soy. Great yarn . . very soft and fabulous to work with. I would use it again for sure.

I did make some additional changes this time. I added an eyelet row and threaded some green ribbon to give it unique touch. I really wanted that pea pod look for my little sweet pea to be some day.

and a matching hat of course:)

ooooh maybe tomorrow I will post the Green Mountain Fiber Event photos from today. . .very exciting. . spinning. . dyeing yarn. . .lots of cool things.

ttfn

New Hobbies

2009-05-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

With all of the hobbies and responsibilities I currently have. . .why add another?

Well. . . I have wanted to sew for a while now. Purchasing a machine has really been the only thing standing in my way. Do I make the initial investment or borrow one? Or get a used one? I was also really scared because I know how I can get sucked in so fast!

I have so much yarn that I could literally not leave my house for an entire year and still not open the last bin.

This is getting a little over whelming . . .not to mention ridiculous . . . so I have made a promise to myself to take one sewing project at a time. . . .not to mention a yarn diet.

With that agreement in my head I went to Williston last Saturday for my regulation exam (CPA) . . .after 3 hours of mental strain plus being finger printed and monitored like I was a criminal! Seriously people. . .so not worth the effort to cheat. . .just learn the material! I drove over to Strawberry & Rhubarb to pick up my new Bernina sewing machine.

Great shop, the owner is fabulous and the store is very inspiring! Very big on my list . . .if I don't want to buy everything. . .then something is wrong. . .very wrong. I basically wanted everything!

Project #1 - Pillows for the couch

Joel has been complaining for months about couch pillow. . .this is mostly because I threw out the pillows we had at the apartment before we moved. They were way past their expiration date!

So with that in mind I purchased some Moda fabric - called "twiggy" (so us) and some chocolate brown fabric for the back.

and I spent all day Sunday creating these

Project #2 - Baby Quilt

Here is the pattern. . . .but I am using the "twiggy" collection. This is free on http://www.modabakeshop.com/ really great site with some very useful tips.

I ordered a Jelly Roll from fat quarter shop online which will give me enough to do the squares plus I have all the left over from the pillows. This is going to be so cute! I can't wait.

Hope to have some progress soon! ttfn

Post tax season has arrived!!!!!

2009-04-19T05:41:00.000-07:00

I am free at last! . . . .and don't know what to do first. Oh my goodness! There is so much to get caught up on that I don't know where to start. eeek!

I also have my exam next Saturday so I am studying but at the same time trying to give myself a little break. A change in attitude has really helped there. . .instead of getting frustrated when I can't remember everything. . . I am instead opening my mind to try and embrace the information that hasn't stuck. It seems to be helping.

It will be what it will be. . .I can't force it. I have at least taken on some more complex clients at work which has really sharpened my skills. . .I need to do it hands on to get it to sink in or it doesn't mean anything.

Reading:

Finished the twilight series. . . . .what a great series and a fabulous love story. I still liked the 1st book the best but I was glad to see the ending in the 4th and to finally figure out some lingering questions I had about how things worked. The author did do it in a very tasteful manner for those who get all bashful at the idea. Me. . I am very open about everything so it would take a lot to make me blush.

Got the movie too. . the actor who plays Edward Cullen. . .can you say yum? ah. . .more details please!

Knitting projects:

Finished the sweet pea for my cousin . . it was so cute. .I hated to part with it but i can make another one.

I also started the Monkey sock since I am teaching a class starting May 1st at Green Mountain Fibers. . .only one is done since I will be knitting the other for the class itself. This is out of jitterbug. . .this yarn is amazing. . . .done on size 1 1/2 dpn. . 2's are a little too big for me and 1's are too small so 1 1/2 are just right.

It was a blast. . so easy!

I will also be teaching 3 other sock classes during the summer out of the sock innovation book.(which is fabulous . . so run out and get a copy . . . but if you take the classes at GMF you get a discount. . .check the website http://www.greenmountainfibers.com/ details to be posted soon.)

Sweater project. . .must have one of those going in the back ground. I started Vaila out of Malabrigo . . .which is like knitting butter. . but unfortunately pills when you just look at it.

Doesn't it look yummy!

I also gave myself a much needed reward this year. Instead of going away after tax season like we always do. . .mostly because there is so much to do with the house and I have an exam coming up. . .instead I purchased something I have been drooling over FOREVER!

Now is isn't the exact model I wanted but it is a very solid foundation for sure.

oh ya! I have wanted a sewing machine for a long long time. A good one. . .not one of those machines with plastic parts. . .no. . . a REAL sewing machine. My goal is to make some pillows for the living room, a baby quilt, and maybe some curtains this summer. Yes I said baby quilt. . but I am not pregnant . . .yet. We will start trying this fall. Yes, I am a planner . . it is what keeps me sane.

ttfn -off to study. . .

Katie's Socks and Sweet Pea

2009-03-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Not much to talk about. I pretty much do tax returns in my sleep at this point. Only 4 more weeks. . then life can go back to normal. . .thank goodness. . .I am so exhausted!

I did finish Katie's birthday socks! Which came out fabulous! . . .and I just could not wait until April 7th to give them to her . . .so I did!

And they were so much fun that I started a pair in green for Me! Only one skein is needed too! Woohoo!

I also started the Sweet Pea for my cousin who's baby shower is at the end of this month. . .so I have a few more Sunday's to get this done. But I love it! I so want one for my baby. . .my hypothetical one that is. I got the idea off from the sixoneseven blog because the original pattern. . .not so cute. But look how it is turning out. . . .

some little brown booties and a hat. . . its just too cute!

A smidge of progress

2009-03-01T04:44:00.000-08:00

A smidge of progress but not much. I have been in the full force blur of tax season along with having several audits going on at the same time. By Sunday, my one and only day off . . .I am lucky to know who I am let alone follow a pattern.

I did get a nice break two nights this week when Julie came to visit. I really wish I could have taken a day off to spend with her but I just can't this time of year. . . it is impossible. It was so good to laugh. . .we knitted and laughed for two evenings which helped to lift my spirits to get through the next 6 weeks. I didn't make it to the gym at all this week but hey. . .laughter is good for the heart too.

I was able to complete one of the socks which does have a April deadline since it is a birthday gift. The pattern is free online:

http://bellaknitting.typepad.com/bella_knitting/2007/09/synesthesia-soc.html

Hopefully I can finish it with one skein of jitterbug but it made me nervous and I bought another just incase. Will let you know.

The furniture is out of the box! Yippee!

2009-01-25T16:06:00.000-08:00

Only 3 hours later but the rug is down. . .table and chairs are up. . .whew. . .and I am tired! But I just love it. . .I am soooooooooooooo happy!!!

The floor. . .not so pretty. . .but nothing a rug can't fix. . .for now. See what I mean. . .right around the rug that was there at one point. . .weird? It will be beautiful once we have it finished though.

After the second coat of red.

Habitat hat complete . . .putting up furniture soon. . .just in time for tax season to kick off. . .whew!

2009-01-25T04:18:00.001-08:00

Such a long two weeks since my last post. I finished the habitat hat which came out nice. I did how ever change the needle size since my husband has a small head. I knitted the entire hat in a size 7 instead of a size 8. I don't have photos of it actually on his head because it is on display at Green Mountain Fibers right now in Rutland. So stop by and check it out. It was knitted in Debbie Bliss luxury tweed in gray. I really wanted chocolate but that was on back order. . .

So then when that came in last week. . .I started the central park hoodie. The chocolate is very yummy. . .I am going through my chocolate phase right now. Haven't gotten very far on this sweater yer . . . .but that happens this time of year for me.

Open house for Green Mountain Fibers is on Saturday, January 31st. . . .lots of sales and prizes . . please stop by. It is going to be great! I was there yesterday afternoon helping out with bookkeeping and getting prepared. I think I talked Kathleen into doing a chicks, sticks, and flicks night at some point . . ..like we use to do at Stitchy Women when my friends owned it. It was so much fun! I really miss it. Especially Sue and Marlee :(

On the house front. . . we have the dining room primed. . .

and the first coat of red on. . ..

. . .got the second coat too but I didn't have the energy to even pick up the camera. Joel pulled the carpet up on Monday . . . . .but they finished the floors around the rug that was apparently there at one point. . .who does that? So I am off today to target to get a rug to put down to cover the unfinished floor . . . for now. Then the furniture comes out of the box! Woohoo!

I can't wait to be done with this. . then it is no more painting until after tax season . . .I can not do anymore . . .I just can't. Even as I look into my kitchen from my newly painted dinning room to baby blue cabinets and yellow and blue flowered and striped wallpaper. . .and a stove from 1970. . .spring. . .it has to wait until spring.

I did get to see Julie this weekend and finally give her and her family their xmas gift which I refused to put on my blog until I had given it to her. I not only knit but I stamp and scrapbook so . . . .

Everyone got a bag of reindeer poop, a jar of cocoa, a mug. . . and they all got this years Danforth ornament.

Now don't think I came up with this idea all on my own . . . the master mind behind the stamped items would be my extremely talented stampin up rep Trena. . .I took a class and then used her ideas to put a basket together. . .Trena is brilliant!

ok. . .off to Target!

Some progress this week. . .but not as much as I would like

2009-01-11T06:48:00.000-08:00

Well I have some progress this week. . .but really not as much as I would have liked to have done. If I only didn't have to sleep! I could get so much done. I am studying for my CPA exam . . .which I booked over xmas for February 28th (so it is final now) and I just went back to the gym. Two things that are very important but yet another thing to my massive list of duties. If I didn't go back to the gym. . .I will never make it through tax season. . the stress would build up so bad I would burst.

Cambridge vest. . ..

This came out very nice and I am really happy with it. Looks great with a dress shirt and pants. I wore it to work and got many complements . . .and most people think it is store bought. That is always a nice complement.

Then after an hour of deliberating on what to start next I decided to try the Habitat hat by Jared Flood.

Note, I placed markers at the end of each pattern repeat. . .there is 5 of them. This just makes it easier to focus when you are trying to multi-task . . .something I do all the time. There are many cables in this pattern . . .which I love but it does require a little mental attention. This is made using Debbie Bliss luxury tweed purchased at Green Mountain Fibers in Rutland.

Katie came over and I finally took a couple quick snap shots of her in the sifting sands scarf that I made for her for xmas. This pattern is available for free. . . check it out on ravelry. Made from malabrigo which I purchased at webs (www.yarn.com). Green Mountain Fibers just purchased some punta yarn that is very similar and I am dieing to know how that will look in this pattern.

Katie loves it. . .it is soft and purple. . .what more could she ask for.

The dining room is coming together. . .Joel just finished the sanding yesterday (8 hours worth). I will spend a few hours today washing the dust from the walls so we can prime next weekend. Dining room table. . .ya that is still in the box. Grrrrrr. . .I so wanted to paint this weekend. . .again the time thing.

Progress. . .and new project decisions

2009-01-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

Well the week has been quite busy as usual. Our office was closed on Thursday and I spent the day at the yarn shop even though it was closed entering the remainder of the inventory into the POS system. Joel spent the day skim coating the plaster walls and painting his hunting/fishing room. Needless to say. . .not a day of rest. . . but you have to take these days as opportunities to get things done or they will never happen.

I spent most of the week last on the phone with tech support at our office. I have now developed a close relationship with a guy named Chris since i spent at least 8 hours on the phone with him this week alone! Finally we figured it out. . .you see we have decided to go paperless at our office . . which will be great. . .once the bugs are worked out. But right now it is sooooo time consuming. Especially when there are so many things I want to get a jump on before tax season starts.

On the home front, we have a lot of progress on the walls. We should have them finished for painting next weekend. The skim coat worked great, the sanding just takes time and you have to let the skim coat dry a day. I am very impressed with my husband. He really has done a fantastic job and been a trooper! Especially since he does most of the work. I can paint but the skim coat and sanding. . .its just better that i don't go there.

I also finished the pawprints cardigan for my friend Rita's little boy Maddox. He was born in November but I have been dragging out the last part of the project. The sweater wasn't hard, just out of cotton and I just do not want to knit with cotton in the winter. . .I want my wool!

Maddox is absolutely adorable. . .he is such a little peanut just like her daughter Cadence was. A very good baby too. We ate dinner at the Palms and he barely fussed at all. . .she is so lucky . . .once again!

Almost finished with the Cambridge vest. I have one shoulder to do and then the edging. Excellent project and excellent yarn. Rowan really knows what the are doing.

With the Cambridge Vest almost done I am pondering the idea of the next project. Unfortunately even though working in a yarn store is fun and inspiring . . it is also hard to behave in. . .I have acquired the following and I am not sure what to knit next. I have also made the new years resolution to knit more from my stash so i have some room in my craft room to do things in. . . . We will see how that goes. . . .

Socks obviously. . .not sure on the pattern yet. or . . . . use this

to make these

http://www.knotions.com/issues/fall_2008/patterns/oak_leaf/directions.aspx

or make the habitat hat by Jared flood out of this. . . .

Haven't found a sock pattern for this either. . .

Or this yet. . . .

Or this one. . .

hmmm. . .or this one either

Since I am not religious . . I am now placing my hand on the fiber and repeating. . .I will knit from my stash. . my stash only (not the yarn stores) . . so help my fiber. K1P1.

Pretty and not so pretty

2008-12-29T02:39:00.000-08:00

What did I do on my Christmas break? Well we had Christmas on Friday the 26th instead of Christmas day so I convinced my husband to start the dining room. . . .not so pretty underneath all that wallpaper though. . . .

This house was built in 1907 and this could very well be some of the original plaster walls for all I know. . .its dry and patched . ..everywhere!

I keep telling myself that it is like a big craft project. . .its fun . . . . really! It can only get better . . . . . .and before that . . . .it has to get worse to get better.

So needless to say . . .this is no weekend project. Joel is going to skim coat this week and hopefully next weekend we can paint.

If the skim coat doesn't work out we can always use the paintable wallpaper.

At least the friggin' flowers are gone!

On another note. . .the Cambridge vest is coming out great. . .I am actually on the front now. .and the yarn is such a treasure to knit with. Feels so nice!

I also finished Twilight this weekend. . .what an amazing book. . .I couldn't put it down. . .I read 300 pages this weekend! Highly recommended. . .if you love Harry Potter. . .you will love this series. Joel and I also went to see Marley and Me. . we both read the book and couldn't wait to see the movie. I am of course a huge Jennifer Aniston fan and wouldn't pass it up for a second. Be prepared to cry though. . but a good cry. . .I use to never cry at movies. . .we both left with puffy eyes and Barley spent the night snuggled in between us. How could you not love that face.

Embossed leaves socks and the cambridge vest. . .

2008-12-19T09:08:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the embossed leaves socks from interweave knits last night and got to have photos taken with my new toy. . .yes. . . Santa came early at my house. . he always seems to and brought me a Canon rebel . . .amazing!

I have wanted a new camera for the last six months since mine has been unable to capture those crisp images that I want for my knitting. It really is a great camera and I got a great deal at http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/589048-REG/Canon__EOS_Rebel_XSi_a_k_a_.html#reviews. A very good friend of mine recommended this site and it really is the best!

Now the next plan is to take a photography class. . .now I know I can point and shoot a camera but understanding lighting and shutter speed. . .way above my head but I know I can learn.

Joel loves it. . .he couldn't put it down all evening long and he knows his stuff with photography. . his grandfather was an amazing photographer and Joel is the same way. His composition is just spectacular. Some of his nature shots just amaze me. So this camera will be perfect for him also.

So with the embossed leaves complete. . .now on to the Cambridge Vest in Rowan Baby Alpaca dk that I purchased at webs when I went to visit Julie in CT a few weeks ago. I got an amazing deal of it because they are discontinuing the yarn. Normally 11.95 a skein . . .try 8.00. . .ya. . exactly. It is fabulous. . .it feels so nice on the needles and knitting every stitch is a dream.

Our dining room table will be here in 3 weeks so we will be decorating the dining room next weekend during xmas break. Can you say good bye to this. . . . . .

I am just sooooo not about flowers. . .yuck. We will be painting it a earthy red and pull up the carpet (nice hardwood underneath) and adding a country style table and chairs. . . it is going to get great.

Christmas Cards

2008-12-14T13:11:00.000-08:00

Finishing up Christmas cards this weekend. . . 45 cards in all. Whew! It's a lot of work let me tell you. . .first coming up with the design and then actually making them.

I really like how they came out. Took me forever do decide on whether to do something with snowflakes or the new mitten stamp I just got from Stampin Up. I also go to use some gems that I purchased forever ago which have been sitting in my eyelet and brad tackle box.

Now hopefully everyone likes them. . .or at least appreciates how much work goes into them.

Yarn shop in Rutland and home renovations begin. . .

2008-12-07T08:20:00.000-08:00

Well it has been a while since I have blogged anything, we moved into our home, unpacked for the most part and have started renovations. . .well just painting but it is a lot of work and time! We started with the biggest room of the house (the living room) which is 13ft by 24ft. The wall paper wasn't bad but we thought we would get the largest room out of the way.

See this isn't really bad wallpaper. . .wait until I show you photos of the dining room . . .ick!

One layer of wallpaper off. . .then steam the second and you have sealed plaster walls. . .(at least they are sealed!). This house was built in 1907 so it still has the original plaster walls.

We chose to paint the walls. . .I really hate wallpaper. . .it just isn't me. We also chose a earthy green tea color that I just love! Joel likes it to!

And even more exciting news! Rutland has a yarn shop! Friends of mine opened Green Mountain Fibers last weekend and it is just fabulous! I am working some Saturdays there and handling their bookkeeping for them. It is an excellent space so check it out!

Before I can post any knitting. . .I need to take some photos. . .I have finished a scarf, a sweater, a hat, and I am almost done with a pair of socks. . . .see I have been really busy!

Taking a break. . . . .

2008-10-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

Isn't he handsome!

Well . . .we finally took a break from packing and the stress of moving today. . . and just went apple picking. Not the best day for apple picking, but it was a wonderful and much needed break.

We went to Douglas apple orchard in addison, picked some mac's, ate cider doughnuts, and took a wagon ride around the orchard.

We also had time to get some shots of the sweater I finished for Joel . . .um . . .last month before moving took over all my free time. The sweater is the cobblestone sweater from interweave knits by Jared Flood. A great mindless project.

It is knit in Queensland Kathmandu DK which is close to Jo Sharp silk road tweed but less expensive.

On the house front, we are about a week away from phyically moving in!!! Yippee!! Thank goodness too. . we can barely see the tv around all the boxes and we just might lose the dog soon!

Finally moving. . .be back soon:)

2008-09-19T02:28:00.000-07:00

It's finally happening!!!!. . .we will be closing on October 15th. . .lots to do . . .be back soon!

HAPPY AUGUST!

2008-08-19T16:15:00.001-07:00

Maple Walnut Applesauce Cake

2008-08-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Maple Walnut Applesauce Cake

Dairy-Free, Vegetarian
This moist whole grain cake is great served topped with applesauce, almond butter or plain. Pair with eggs or scrambled tofu and turkey or tempeh sausage for a delicious breakfast cake.
Serves 12
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup high-heat safflower oil
3/4 cup maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Spray a 9-inch square cake pan.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. In large bowl, whisk together oil and maple syrup. Whisk in eggs until combined. Whisk in applesauce and vanilla. Add dry ingredients and whisk, beating well for 3 minutes. Stir in walnuts.
Scrape batter into prepared cake pan. Bake 45 to 55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cake in pan on a rack before cutting into squares.
Nutrition Info
Per serving (75g-wt.): 200 calories (80 from fat), 9g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 4g protein, 28g total carbohydrate (2g dietary fiber, 14g sugar), 35mg cholesterol, 220mg sodium

Pretty good if I don't say so myself. . .once again from the wholefoods website. . .very easy to make. . .took no time at all really. I spent most of the day at Lake St. Catherine visiting some friends and then came home and quickly put this in the oven . . . .so I could watch last nights swimming Olympics. . .Mike Phelps is just amazing. . .I think he has gills. . .:)

Organic Baby Sweater

2008-08-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

Started this on Saturday last weekend after shopping with Rita-roo in Middlebury. This is by O-Wool, Organic cotton and merino wool. . .knits beautifully and I think I am going to use it for Rita's baby sweater. This one is for her friend Hannah. This is pre-buttons and pre-blocked. . .need to take a trip to the yarn store to find the right buttons. . .very cute. . .love the colors. . .great job picking the colors Rita-roo.

Good news possibly on the house front. . .she is looking into moving in with a friend so that we can close on the house! So we are keeping our fingers and toes crossed! We need to get in by 6/30/09 to take advantage of the tax credit for first time home buyers that was passed recently for the 2008 tax year.

Also, I cut my hair off. . .finished the jasmine sweater. . .maybe this week I can get a picture taken. . .last week was way too busy.

Sheryl Crow Concert

2008-08-09T06:40:00.001-07:00

Was spectacular . . . .really great to see her again and James Blunt this time. Came straight home and downloaded her new CD detours. . .even Joel can't stop listening to the "Love is free" song. . . . it has such a happy sound. Barley likes to bounce and dance to it too!

This was at the entrance before they made me take my camera back to the car (Amanda, Joel and Katie). . .I was so not happy about that. . I had it the last time and what is the difference between a camera and a cell phone these days. . .hello? We had lawn seats. . .seriously?

Been Busy!!!!!!

2008-07-28T15:38:00.001-07:00

Lets see. . last week. . .baked a second carrot cake for Tom at work.. . . . which came out great once again. I miss baking. . .I so need more room. Decorated it exactly the way I did Joel's except it had a little accident on the way to work. . .but luckily after years of experience baking cakes with my mom. . .I brought extra frosting to patch it right up.

Silly me tried to put it in the car with my purse on my shoulder. . .came right off my shoulder full force into the side of the cake . . . .whoops :( Fixed it right up. . nobody noticed anything.. .although I don't know if cream cheese frosting is good for leather?. . .it is extra shiny in that spot.

Then. . big day Monday. . .I got my braces off!!!!! Finally after 3 years of treatment for my TMJ. . .I am done! I am sooooooo happy! It has been such a long process. I am finally pain free and like my smile! I had lots of popcorn and gum and popcorn and gum!

Although the week was filled with excitement and way to much work. . .I did have a really relaxing weekend. . . .

My sunflowers are up! Someone who loves me planted them for me!

Yep. . .that would be him!

Barley enjoying the front on the canoe on Glen Lake.

And the lily pads. . .she seems to think it is game to see how many she can grab and bring into the canoe on the way by. . . .but the worst was the dead snail she caught that was floating on the surface. . she bit it to it and that was all we could smell for hours! Lets just say . . . no Barley kisses for a while. .yuck!

Love this photo. . she is getting so grown up!

A Healthy Happy Birthday!

2008-07-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

Joel had a healthy happy birthday cake this year. He turned 33 on Friday and for his birthday I have two choices for a cake.

1. Carrot cake
2. Cherry cheese cake.

I decided on carrot cake this year and went for a "from scratch and totally organic"!

After searching online I found a long list of great recipes off the whole foods website. They really have some outstanding dishes! Check it out if you have a chance.

We had a barbecue and our friend Mark's house with my in-laws and some friends from town. Food was great and there was not much left of my cake. . .even though there was another store bought cake there. . . .from scratch still proves to be the best!

Today I am baking another one for work since Friday was also one of the partners birthdays. . .so I am back at it again. . .starting to realize how much I miss baking. . I haven't done much since we moved into this apartment several years ago. The kitchen is sooooooo tiny and I have two tiny spaces of counter to work on . . .I just can't move which drives me nuts. I just can't wait until we close on our house and I have room to move again! (which there still is no change in. . .she is still next on the waiting list for the retirement home . . .poor thing. . she is as anxious as we are).

Weekend Crafting

2008-07-15T17:09:00.001-07:00

Knitting News:

Jasmine. . . . the back is complete !!!!! Finally . . . .that is a lot of stockinette stitch. . zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. . .ya I am awake. . I was going crazy just to get to the gosh darn garter stitch. . .at some point I may need to go back to the kauni or start something else. . .throw me a cable here?

Scrapping News:

It has been a while but I actually got to scrapbook this weekend at Jeanean's house with my good friend Rita-roo. . .we have been planning for months to get together but out schedules are all over the place. I can't wait to hang out in your new craft room Rita-roo! :) Some day I will have mine too and maybe we can do a "host one Saturday a month" and flip-flop.

I am also glad that I now have a color to work with. . . I am digging through patterns and trying to decide what to knit . . .but I have til November. . I got time. Baby sweaters are quick:)

Spinning News:

Finished the peacock roving this weekend and then got to start on local wool. This is wool from a local Poultney sheep that was given to me as fleece. I took it to Rhinebeck this fall for processing and have tons in my stash. I have several rovings in white, gray, and brown. The plan is to spin thin and ply . . . .I think I will experiment with two colors together.

Chemise on. . .ignore the sunburn. . .

2008-07-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

Finally got Christine to take photos of me in the drawstring chemise. . which would probably look better on me (now that I see the photos) if it was a little more fitted . .but it is so comfortable just the way it is. I made a medium to be on the safe side with the yarn because my torso is so long . . . but it is much wider than my waist line. Oh well, I don't like my shirts tight anyway.

Ignore the sunburn marks. . .god what an idot. . went out on the 4th and forgot my sunblock. . a duh! So bad. . . .luckily I wasn't out very long . . . only for an hour or two or else I would have been a lobster!

Jasmine

2008-07-06T17:43:00.001-07:00

Started the long awaited Jasmine by Kim Hargreaves. I ordered this directly from her website as a kit so I could get the exact buttons used in the photo. I really love the simple conservative look of this sweater.

So far I really like working with this yarn although it is a little on the light weight side. Working in US size 1 and 2 needles. The yarn is a 4ply cotton and unlike most cottons it does not split at all!! Good job Rowan! I just finished the Chemise with cotton glace and this left me with the same experience. I really enjoy Rowan yarn. . .I hate to be a yarn snob but you really do get what you pay for. The quality is unbeatable.

Busy week this week. . . .we will see how much knitting I actually get done. Joel and I can not commute together this week. . .at all since has electrofishing all week. . .and I am at audit most of the week. Between job wrap ups, the gym, and studying for the CPA exam. . .I might have time to breath. . . . a little. . .but not like the past two weeks with vacation days and holidays.. . .bummer:(

A Day of Spinning

2008-07-05T13:30:00.001-07:00

A day of spinning today. . . it really has been a long time. Today, I remembered exactly how much I love the feel of the wool spinning and drafting between my fingers. I went back to my Greta Dise roving that I purchased at Rhinebeck over a year ago. . .which I started working on with Julie last summer. . .how bad is that. . .it's called peacock and we both started it at the same time. Greta's roving is just to die for and I usually purchase one bag every year.

It really is amazing to see the line at her booth every year . . . . .people just keep coming back and you can't get enough. . .I know I am one of them. The color is amazing and it really is easy to spin.

I also remembered how much I love my spinning wheel. . .thank you Marlee! She talked me in to getting a louet. . .it's an S51 DT(double treadle). It is so easy to transport and I can take it just about anywhere. . .it is one of the easiest to learn on and sooooooo low maintenance. It never gives me any trouble.

The only downfall I see to it. .. is that is it is not as pretty as a traditional wheel. . .but I can live with that.

I also finished my chemise this week. . but I have to get someone to take a photo of me in it. I did however wear it to a clients on Thursday and everyone at work loved it. It really came out nice. . .I am thinking about making my sister one for Christmas.

Over all it has been a nice 4th of July weekend. Joel made me get up and do a 5k on Friday at 8:00am. I was doing great too.. . .kicked butt up the hill and then about a mile away from the finish line. . .my ipod locks up!!!!! I of course freaked out and had to stop and fix it. I just can't be without my music. . .so needless to say I was over 30 minutes by like 30 seconds . . and I so would have been under 30 if I hadn't panicked. . . .but oh well. . .at least I got up and got out there. I haven't ran three miles straight in over a month.

Happy Independence Day!

2008-07-04T11:29:00.001-07:00

Kauni Cardigan

2008-06-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well now that I am 50% done with the chemise. . .time to start thinking about another project for the 30 minute ride to Rutland in the morning. . . that is valuable knitting time. While pondering my many bins of yarn and . . .excessive amounts of planned projects I decided I would start the Kauni Cardigan. . .this yarn has really been a great discovery for fair isle projects when you don't have the time to pay as much attention to detail. . .I mean don't get me wrong. . I love the challenge and have several projects in my stash . . . .but you really have to have the time to dedicate to these kinds of projects. The yarn is specifically dyed and skeined to allow you to create a beautiful fair isle project with two strands of yarn. . .the colors change at different times giving you the look of fair isle. http://www.ruths.dk/engelsk/kauni%20regnbue%20engelsk.pdf for the free pattern. . the yarn I got at http://www.funknits.com/

Barley and Joel are camping this weekend. . . . so I will have a lot of knitting time in the evening. . . .Barley's first camping trip. She is very excited. . .she went all around our apartment carrying Joel's camping pillow like her own little sleeping bag. She is like a little kid sometimes!

Coming out nice. . .

2008-06-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am really enjoying this . . .its coming out so nice. . . .and I love this color!

Next Project

2008-06-17T15:58:00.000-07:00

Next Project - Interweave Knits - Drawstring Chemise. Thanks to one of my favorite sites "Stitchywitch". . .I saw it in mocha and had to make it. The lace pattern is a little difficult at first but eventually you catch on and the pattern stands out to you as you are knitting. I have a very long torso so I took Jessica's suggestion and added 1.5 inches to the length. I am creeping on 30 and my mid-drift days are over. . flat stomach or not.

Over all the project is very inexpensive. . .6 skeins at 7.50 each = $45.00. Compared to a sweater. . .that isn't bad!

I have been knitting to and from work everyday. . .don't worry . . Joel and I are commuting together. . .no knitting while driving :) I really enjoy knitting with cotton during the summer. . it has a great feel to it and it doesn't stick to you when it is humid.

FINISHED!

2008-06-15T06:04:00.000-07:00

It's done! I am so excited and love this sweater! Every time I knit with this yarn it comes out perfect. ..Rowan is really just the best. . . And Kim Hargreaves. ..her designs. . .hats off! She is truly gifted.

Hot Days!

2008-06-15T05:26:00.000-07:00

This week was full of exhausting hot days! I just drives me bonkers. . .Barely too. . the poor thing. She was sick at daycare. . .heat exhaustion. . .she must get that from me. I get extremely ill when its hot. We take her to Happy Paws Daycare in Castleton during the week while we are at work. She just loves it. . and they are very good to her. They have done very well too. . they now have a bus that goes into Rutland and picks up other dogs. . "Happy Paws Doggy Bus" . . .I love it. . it is so cute and funny! Check out the bus!

We ended up taking her to the river a lot this week just to cool her off before going upstairs to our sweat box apartment.

And she is such a great retriever. . .I just can't believe how well trained she is for only a year old. Joel really is amazing with her. . .as he is with all animals. Its all about patience.

Last weekend. . .

2008-06-15T05:05:00.000-07:00

Finally back again. . .it has been so hot in our apartment that I just could not go upstairs and download any photos or even begin to think of adding to this blog. I have been living in my bedroom with the A/C for just about every night this week! Oh I hate hot weather! But anyway, last weekend was my cousin Amber's baby shower. . .I just can't believe she is having a baby. . .she just can't be that old. . .I just can not believe it! She is my sisters age. . .I am getting so old!

I knitted her a blanket out of Debbie Bliss super chunky cashmerino because I didn't know what she was having until two weeks before. . .went fast but that yarn has got quite the price tag on it. . .she is worth it though. . and I know she will appreciate it and cherish it forever! I put together a cute basket with all seventh generation products to help her get ready for the baby. . .a happy baby is a green baby!

That was a busy day, went to a card class with my friend Jess. Haven't seen her in forever and the card class was great! Trena is so talented and her projects always leave me inspired. Of course I just had to have the stamp set when I left. . .love the fruit. . .it is just so cute!

this is the card box and there are 10 cards in the box 2 of 5 different designs. I love them all!

I just love the envelopes! Aren't they great!

So Close!

2008-06-04T02:40:00.001-07:00

So close to being done, I have the back, both fronts, and the sleeves done. . .just have to do the cuff on the last sleeve and then I can begin putting it together. This picture is terrible . . . .I know . . . .but the light abilities in our apartment are just awful. The best light I can get it near the window and I had to act fast since Barley was quite annoyed that I was in her spot. . .yep. . .she is a people watcher. . . .I also have not blocked it at all.

So many things to make. . .so little time. ..darn!

2008-06-01T15:44:00.001-07:00

I just love the look and shaping of this sweater. . .what a great design! She used Jo Sharp Alpaca Kid Lustre. . . .Julie this is the yarn we fell in love with at the Whipple Tree!!!!! According to Ravelry. . .the pattern is in french. . .Julie. . .this is where you come in my french speaking little friend :)

I am so making the Jasmine sweater. . .this is high on my list!

Love this! and this . . .from brooklynn tweed. . . really into that golden color lately. It is just so yummy! The others are all Kim Hargreaves patterns . . I just love her style.

I soooooo need more time!

New Book!

2008-06-01T15:22:00.001-07:00

Can't wait to check out this new book. . .I had to order it after Julie raved about it. . .if she is nuts about it . . .I will be too! http://www.afinefleece.com/

Sex and the City

2008-06-01T10:59:00.001-07:00

The movie was great. . . .it was like watching an extra long version of the show. . .same characters, same chemistry, just perfect!

Sex and the City

2008-05-30T03:03:00.000-07:00

Today is officially the day but tomorrow a couple of girl friends and I are going to a Sex and the City premiere. I so can't wait! I love that show! Right up there with Friends and Grey's Anatomy. . . .you just can't stop watching and you become so involved the characters are like friends. . . .you laugh with them, you get angry with them. . . .and yes you even cry with them . . . and that is big for me. . .so not a crying kind of girl. So think of me tomorrow night as I am dressed up and on the town watching Sex and the City while sipping my cosmo :)

Knitting Projects

2008-05-29T16:46:00.001-07:00

Currently working on the Olivia Jacket by Kim Hargreaves http://www.kimhargreaves.co.uk/acatalog/OLIVIA.html . . .absolutely love this pattern. . .just watch out for the "knit three together decreases". . .our mind wants to automatically put a "knit two" there. . .we are just not that use to "knit three". Of course the yarn is spectacular. . felted tweed by Rowan is a great buy and knits beautifully. I have always enjoyed it.

I am almost done . .both the fronts are finished and the back . . .one sleeve and working on the last one. . . .but I have a baby blanket to finish for my cousin's shower next weekend so I need to get that done first.

Barley

2008-05-29T16:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was her 1st birthday. . . .I remember when she first came home. . .she was so little. . . .and those little puppy teeth and of course the puppy breath. . .there is nothing like puppy breath!

Our little Barley. . . .what can I say . . .she is just the best! So full of life and happy. . .she is so happy that when she wags her tail she wiggles her entire body. I wish I could be that happy ALL the time.

First Timer Blog

2008-05-29T05:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, it is offical now!. . .I am a blogger. . .this is so exciting. . a place to talk about knitting, scrapping, reading, running, life. . . . all sorts of good things. . .way cool.