I really have so little to say tonight that here I am, because, let’s see . . . here’s what I did today.

• Stayed inside the air conditioning as much as possible because It was hot and sticky today–like 95 degrees–my least favorite kind of weather.
• Did NOT take Chappy out for a walk (because, well, it was hot and sticky!).
• Ate a fried egg on toast for supper because Mom and Dad went out with friends. (A good thing.)
• Colored my hair.
• Baked–highly unusual on a week day–because Mom had a brain freeze at the grocery store and thought we needed more when we had about five at home, and there’s no way we were going to be able to eat all of them before they turned brown, so yes, I converted some to banana bread.
• Ate about half a bowl of cherries. (I love them, and they’re in season for such a short time, I can’t seem to help myself.)
• Listened to the Music and Lyrics soundtrack in the car . . . because, no, I wasn’t able to restrain myself. The music is really pretty catchy.
• Was amazed at how many comments yesterday’s “Paper or Plastic” post generated–who knew so many of you had such strong opinions on e-books? More comments on that one than any of my knitting posts lately, which I find really pretty interesting!
• Made sure my monthly reading list was up-to-date for tomorrow morning’s post . . . just so long as I don’t finish anything before bedtime….
• Um . . .

Yep. That’s about it. Those four new rows on the shawl really are just about the only thing “new.”

You know, except for the banana bread.

• Tags: General • Permalink:New? // 1 Comment »

• Do you read e-Books?
• If so, how? On your computer, or a PDA?
• Or are you a paper purist? Why?

My answer’s pretty simple, really. I do not read e-books. Not as a rule. (I won’t say never, but, well, maybe once out of every 1000 books? Every four or five years or so?) I have nothing against them, but I like being able to curl up with a book–something that’s hard to do with a computer. Even the e-readers that are out, they’re not the same–and also harder on the eyes. You don’t get the nifty little “flick” whisper of the turning pages. You don’t get the satisfaction of closing a book after the last page. It’s just not the SAME. And not nearly so portable.

Of course, this isn’t to say that I’d never change my mind about this . . . or at least, that I wouldn’t start adding some e-books into my life at some point. But will it ever replace the paper variety? The volumes I have on my shelves? The loved volumes with tattered corners and tape marking the multitude of times I’ve read them? Inscriptions from loved ones in books I was given as gifts? I don’t see how anything electronic could possibly replace that.

Hey, I still buy CDs for my music, too, even with my MP3 player . . . and I even still have my vinyl LP collection down in the basement. Electronic can be nice and convenient and all, but sometimes you need something you can hold in your hand.

And–entirely off-topic, but check out this car video . . .

The 10 Second guy was kind of funny, too.

• Tags: Reading • Permalink:Paper or Plastic? // 22 Comments »

So.

Or, “sew,” as the case may be.

Because here’s my pile of Celtic Icon pieces, waiting to be sewn together so that I can finish knitting the hood.

What, this doesn’t give you a good enough idea of the miles of seams?

Here’s a better idea. All the pieces laid out on the floor, with my handy assistant for scale.

Not to mention the sheer acreage of my bedroom floor covered by knit pieces.

That’s two fronts, one back, two sides, and two sleeves.

And only then, after all the seaming, will I know if the darn thing is going to fit!

One more picture. Just to really show you how many pieces there are . . .

. . . And, okay. Maybe just a little because I’m stalling about actually starting the seaming process I wonder what the point of the separate side pieces is for, as opposed to having integrated that into the fronts and back, anyway?

Oh, and the lace? The beauty of the beginning of a triangular shawl that starts at the center back is that the beginning goes oh, so quickly. I’m up to row 32, into the second chart already. And, well, cherishing the illusion that this is moving quickly. . . I know it’s going to slow down to a snail’s pace along about chart number three, but, well . . . leave me my illusions.

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Still Seamingly Endless // 13 Comments »

First, happy Memorial Day, everyone. (Well, the U.S. readers, anyway . . . although I hope everyone else has a good day, too. And of course, I don’t see why non-U.S. people couldn’t take a moment to remember those  who died for their country, too, so . . . )

I’m digressing. (Yes, I do that from time to time.)

The shawl?

Definitely in Zephyr “Curry.”

See? I’m up to row #14 already. It’s really very nice to be doing lace again! The first time since October when I finished my rectangular Peacock Stole.

The one problem? Nothing to do with the Japanese chart, but with the lace needle.

See, I had bought one of the Addi Lace Needles to try a couple months ago, when they first came out, and it’s sat in the closet ever since, waiting for a chance to be used. But, when I bought the yarn on Saturday, I figured I’d get a needle there, too, specifically for this shawl . . .

What do you suppose the odds are of my accidentally buying two of the exact same size and length?

Yeah, you guessed it. Very good. I’m assuming that I can take yesterday’s back to the store and exchange it for a different size at some point . . . In the meantime, I’m using the one that’s been in the closet–it’s only fair. The plus side is that these needles are all that the reviews have said they’d be–sharp, but not too sharp–sleek but with enough “grab” to keep the lace yarn under control–flexible cord with that perfect Addi join. All of that. The bad part? One, the cord, at this stage of the shawl is annoyingly long (which is my own fault, not the fault of the needle), but also, the brass-tipped needles smell annoyingly metallic and keep leaving a metallic tang at the back of my throat . . . and my fingers smell like brass. I’m hoping that will go away. Although, I’m also thinking about switching to gray Inox needles on a shorter cord, or maybe Knitpicks Options, for a while . . . you know, until I have enough stitches and “heft” on my needle to make the longer cord a little more reasonable and a little less annoying.

Incidentally, I just joined another KAL, one which fortuitously started up just as I got ready to start my shawl–the Knitting Elegance KAL, for anyone knitting one of the patterns from the Japansese “Let’s Knit” series.

The shawl I’m making, you’ll remember, comes from Book #11.
And, while we’re talking about Japanese knitting, let me also point out that there’s a Yahoo! Group, Knitting in Japan, dedicated to it.

But mostly, the really important thing, is that I’m not cheating.

I had promised myself that I wouldn’t start any new projects until one or the other of my sweaters was done. And while my Celtic Icon isn’t entirely done, it’s done “enough” that I’m not feeling guilty.

I finished the sleeves last night (you can see them here, blocking as proof), and the next official step of the construction process is to sew in the zipper. Now, first of all, I think that’s a little silly–shouldn’t that be the final step–but anyway, since I’m not going to know if I want to use a zipper or buttons until the entire thing is done, that’s not happening for a while anyway. Which means the real next step (for me) is to sew the fronts, sides, and back together, sew up the raglan seams, sew up the sleeve seam, and THEN pick up the stitches and knit the hood. Well, all that seaming is going to take a while and really, I’m not feeling any guilt at all about starting my next knitting project in the interim. Except for a couple, little Christmas gifts, one Mystery Project and, what, two pairs of socks? I’ve been plugging away on the same two “big” projects for almost half a year (Celtic Icon since October, Tatami since December) . . . so, well, it’s almost June, I want to knit lace, I finished the sleeves of C.I., and darn it, I’m just not going to feel guilty about this! All in all, I think I’ve been doing just fine in the perseverence-on-endless-projects stakes . . .

What else have I done today? Well have I have NOT done the two things I planned to do–thoroughly vacuuming my room and giving Chappy a haircut. But I DID organize all my lace and sock yarns, and sorted them into these canvas sweater organizers (that even have a cedar insert, which is never a bad thing). It came in a set of three, my sock yarn fits into one, my lace yarn (pictured) into another, and the third is currently home to the odds and ends that don’t quite fit into any categories–leftovers, and whatnot. (My other two storage cubes are filled with specifically “sweater” yarn.) I could wish that these had solid bottoms so that I could stack them on the top shelf of my closet a little easier–reaching to get that third one on top is tricky because they’re just a little longer than the shelf is wide and so I have to stack them horizontally, so that I can’t reach the handle, and, well, but who cares? It’s a good size, the canvas is breathable, I love the scent of cedar, and the top is plastic so I can easily tell what’s in there.

I did some other organizing/cleaning kinds of things, too. Took Chappy out for a short walk (it was only about 80 degrees but very humid). Made potato salad for supper. (In all modesty, mine is the best in the family.) Started my shawl, as you saw. Did some reading.

Oh, and yesterday? We celebrated the family birthdays–my niece and nephew, as well as my giving my brother-in-law his belated gift, and us giving my sister her gifts a little early (since her birthday is the day before Graduation, and my Mom wanted to be sure she had her gifts in case she wanted them for that day . . . not to mention it kind of made more sense to Mom to celebrate her birthday along with the others, rather than doing it on Graduation day. It was a nice day, although we came home to a house without any electricity. Not just us and our next-door neighbors, though, for a change–and it was back on within three hours, but still . . . it’s lucky that I have a front door key on my keyring, because the only other way into the house requires electricity!

Mom and I also finally got around to watching Music and Lyrics this weekend–we had thought it looked charming when it came out in February, and sure enough, we both enjoyed it. A romantic-comedy that didn’t quite go over the edge into ridiculousness, and one in which the two leads (Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore) shared real chemistry. And, really, I enjoy watching both of them when they’re being charming and funny. The faux-80s pop video was highly amusing, too, and the songs remarkably catchy. (The actress, Haley Bennett, playing the newest teen sensation could really sing, too.) It’s romantic-comedy, so it’s a “fluff” movie, but it was entertaining fluff and one I’m very glad I picked up.

Now, I think that’s plenty long enough for one blog entry, don’t you? Congratulations if you made it this far. (Actually, one of my co-workers wanted to figure out a basic word-count for a decent-sized paragraph and started looking at emails in his inbox to copy/paste one of them and then said, “Oh, let’s just look at one of yours.” I guess I have a reputation for being wordy or something . . . or maybe it’s just that I use complete sentences when I explain things??)

• Tags: Family, General, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Memories // 8 Comments »

Well, Ina’s been talking about them for ages. They were highlighted in the Star-Ledger the other day. And they are having a special, Memorial Day/80th Anniversary combo celebration this weekend. So, today, Mom and I went.

The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, in Montclair NJ.

Over 800 irises and 400 daylilies. Lots of smiling (and occasionally sneezing) people. Lots of cameras. Lots of celebratory artwork by local school kids. Plenty of (slightly hazy) sunshine.

And, really, did I mention the 1200+ flowers? Really, I feel kind of badly that I only took 95 pictures.

Here are some for you to enjoy. (Oh, and there will be some knitting content to follow the flower pics–just so you know. If you’re not interested in the flowers, there still will be some other stuff to talk about at the end.)

And, yes, I know that’s a lot of pictures. But they were really, really pretty flowers! Can you tell how glad I am that we went?

Now, the other reason we went to Montclair today was to visit the yarn shops. The usual two, Modern Yarn and Stix-n-Stitches. Really, you know, I like both these stores, and often end up getting yarn in both of them . . . but not today.

Today, I was looking specifically for lace yarn for that beautiful shawl I showed you the other day, and well, not everything fit the bill. I have yarn at home that I seriously considered–not least of which is the Claudia Hand-Painted Silk I bought in February (the plum-colored skein all the way on the left in the picture in the link). It mostly scans as a solid color but it does have variations, and I think this shawl would look best in a solid. I considered some of the Punta del Este Mericash cashmere/merino that MY had in stock (and was recently reviewed at Knitters Review)–and it’s luscious stuff, but none of the colors called to me for THIS particular shawl. (Note that you can see some of that in that linked photo as well.)

So, I ended up with Jaggerspun Zephyr in the Curry colorway. It’s a lovely, golden terra cotta kind of color. Pale enough to show the lace stitches well, and yet not boring . . . actually, come to think of it, and looking at it across the room, it almost perfectly matches the color of my dresser . . .

I also bought a skein of Baruffa Cashwool in the Bordeaux colorway. Not only is this one of the loveliest shades of red ever, and incredibly soft merino, but it was a bargain. What do I mean by “bargain?” 100 grams of weight, at 1350 meters (1460 yards) . . . for only $14. That’s like 1.4 cents a yard. And did I mention it’s incredibly soft and beautiful and I adore the color? There was absolutely no way that yarn wasn’t going to come home with me.

Now, the hard part–deciding which of the two would be the better choice for that shawl . . .

And, the best part? I agreed with myself that I could start that shawl as soon as I finish the sleeves for my Celtic Icon . . . after that, I need to stitch everything together before I can finish the hood, and I figure that that means I can count the knitting part as mostly done once the sleeves are done . . . and they’re getting close. The alternative “deal” is that I can start the shawl on Monday. (What’s more American than starting a Japanese shawl on Memorial Day, huh? Um, don’t answer that. Because really, all that matters there is that I won’t be at work on Monday.) But either way . . . a new project is right around the corner. I can’t tell you how excited that makes me!

• Tags: Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Iris // 13 Comments »

One of Mom’s pictures this week (Hi, Mom!). She took this at Ocean Park on Martha’s Vineyard last week, and we were both enchanted by the daffodills blooming up under/behind the park bench.

Kind of sweet, really.

Brought to you by:

• Tags: Eye-Candy Friday, Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:Ocean Park // 4 Comments »

Let’s take a gander at my Endless Sweaters, shall we?

I haven’t shown you my Tatami in a while . . . mostly because there’s been little progress to SHOW.

I’m just under the halfway point.

Yes, you heard me. I’ve been working on it since December, and it’s not even half done yet. Close, but not quite.

See? The ruler there by the arm? The sleeve is about 9″ wide at this point.

It needs to be 20″ before I can bind off the front edges of the sleeves and work down the fronts of the cardigan.

You heard me. I started the sleeves in February when Liz was here. And sure, granted, I’ve been focusing on my Celtic Icon, and there was the Mystery Project to get done, but still . . . Three months for 9 inches worth of sleeves.

The worst part? I’m getting a little bored with this sweater. (Getting? Who am I kidding? If I’d been loving every stitch, it would have moved up ahead of C.I. by now.) I still love the pattern. And I love the way my handspun is knitting up. And I love the way it looks. Just . . . sooooo slow. The stitch pattern is more interesting than plain stockinette, but not that much more, if you take my meaning. And it’s back and forth in rows, which really, is my least favorite sweater method. (So how have I ended up with this many knit-and-seam projects lately??)

Well, on the plus side, I’m into the sleeve shaping on the Celtic Icon sleeves. Finally. Once they’re done (still a few days away), I need to stitch everything together and THEN knit/finish the hood. And then either sew in the zipper. (One of many.) Or I might, at that point, decide that it would be better with buttons. I’m really . . . not worried, exactly, but . . . concerned about the way this sweater is going to fit. And since it’s turned out so long (after blocking), I don’t know that I’d want to put a zipper all the way up the front. So, I might, at that point . . . with everything sewn together and able-to-be-tried-on . . . decide to go for button bands and buttons instead.

How long, you ask?

Well, to give you an idea, I laid out my two “Celtic” sweaters. Granted, they’re not at all similar in style, but, well the names, the cables . . . I thought they’d like to get together.

As you can see, the front pieces of the Celtic Icon go well beyond the bottom of the Celtic Dreams.

And, really, my Celtic Dreams is just about the right length–give or take an inch either way. So, you can get an idea how very long this sweater’s going to be when I wear it, huh?

Before you ask, yes, I did measure it as I was making it, and yes, I did periodically check my gauge, and yes, I did block it . . . but that’s where the problems started. It definitely grew in length during blocking. For some reason, my pieces always do, no matter how careful I am.

So, ultimately, I’m thinking that putting a zipper into a sweater that’s going to be THIS long is probably a mistake. Assuming it fits well enough to wear when all is said and done (cross your fingers for me), I’d most likely be wanting to leave it open. You know, so it won’t look like it’s trying to be a mini-dress or something. I’d probably just button a couple buttons up near the bust or waist and leave it at that . . . so those zippers might not be going anywhere!

And, in retrospect, it’s really no wonder I needed that extra yarn, huh?

(Now I’m just worrying about how far past my fingers the sleeves are going to reach once I wash this the first time . . . Why ISN’T there a way to block pieces smaller?? I’m so afraid this isn’t going to fit at all . . . after eight months worth of knitting. Eight months!)

Other than knitting? Today is my niece’s 18th birthday. The one whose Senior Prom was last week. She’s not a little girl at all any more! An adult and old enough to vote. How did that happen? I’d swear she was tiny just a year or three ago. Anyway, happy birthday, niece!!

(And yes, I know, my nephew should still be little, instead of fourteen. This is the kind of stuff that makes me feel old!)

Ooh, and I saw this over at JenLa’s and had to try it.

• Tags: Family, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Endless Series // 4 Comments »

My dog is silly. We gave him the container from the leftover pot roast to lick out . . . because, you know, he likes to help around the house . . . and after he’d cleaned it, and bounced it around the dining room a bit, and chewed on the corners . . . you have to get every last iota of flavor out of there, you know . . . he just stretched out, with both front paws cozily tucked inside, and meditated on the joys of leftovers.

It looked very cute, but it really is just a little silly, huh? Which pretty much sums up my boy Chappy.

I had some bonus knitting time at the office today. They needed to reboot the entire system and we were all told to shut our computers down completely. Well, about 98% of my work requires me to be ON my computer (well, in front of it, technically), so . . . there was nothing I could do. And so, I pulled out my knitting and stood in the hallway, my yarn bag dangling from my wrist, chatting with other co-workers who couldn’t do anything constructive, either. Except, of course, that I was. I must have added about half an inch to my socks–which might not sound like a lot, but it’s a half inch more than I’ve added any other day at work . . .

Hey, for the “wow!” of the day, go here to check out this person’s functioning harpsichord built entirely out of Legos. I know I’m impressed!

The other “wow” is about how awful I thought the series/season finale of Veronica Mars was last night. What a depressing end . . . I didn’t need to see things tied up in a nice, pretty little bow, but darn it . . . Veronica walking off into the rain (to the tune “It never rains in sunny California”) having basically ruined her father’s career and no chance to put things right? Leaving them basically exactly where they were when the show started, all because of the Kane family? Why? Whywhywhy?? SO unfair. I wanted to see Keith and Veronica looking HOPEFUL, darn it! Things were finally looking up for them, right up until the last episode or so, and if I’m not going to get to see them in the future, I want to at least have the feeling that they’ll be well and happy. Sigh. So much for that plan….

• Tags: Chappy • Permalink:Leftovers // 9 Comments »

I really need to work on my foreign language skills.

Because I just got this lovely delivery of Japanese knitting books.

A book of 300 knitting stitches.

A book of autumn/winter patterns.

A lovely book of lace patterns, because I saw it on Fleegle’s blog, when she compared it to Lace Style.

And, an extra bonus, a very helpful guide on reading the patterns.

Now, Fleegle has a “how-to read Japanese patterns” also, which is really helpful. More than one, in fact. Not to mention this post with links to other sources–including that guide book you see above.

Here are a couple more for you, too.

The lace book has some really lovely patterns in it. Not least of which is this simply gorgeous shawl. Gorgeous. Beyond gorgeous.

I’m telling you, one of these days, I really need to buckle down and decipher this stuff . . . I can’t say that I love every Japanese pattern I’ve seen, but some, like this shawl? Wow.

Just, wow.

• Tags: Knitting/Spinning, knitting book review • Permalink:Japanning Around // 18 Comments »

No, you’re not seeing double.

(Well, you know, other than the mirror–I figured I’d have some fun with the photo and mess with you just a little.)

There are, in fact, two earrings in that picture.

Two.

Not so surprising? Earrings usually come in pairs?

True, but you might remember that a couple weeks ago, one of these ran away from home.

Well. Apparently she got lonely, because last week, while I was on vacation, one of my co-workers found it on the sidewalk outside the office’s front door. She brought it in and left it on the time-clock (the unofficial “lost and found,” since everybody has to stop there at least once a day). One of my friends–who had heard the whole car/tire/earring saga back when it happened, recognized it as mine and brought it back to her desk for safe-keeping. So, when I came in this morning, there was an email from her, telling me to come pick it up. Woohoo. It’s a miracle!

At least that made ONE good reason to go back to work this morning. Because, otherwise? Blah. Staying home and hanging out with Chappy is SO much better.

Now, about knitting. My Celtic Icon sleeves are coming along. In fact, they’re coming a little too quickly–I’ve reached the 18″ length (finally) before having all the stitch increases done. I’m not worried about this too much–I can adjust the raglan decreasing as I go–but still. I’m actually a little worried that these are going to end up being too long. The body pieces, when blocked, grew in length, so the sweater practically comes down to my thighs at this point–so I’m concerned that the sleeves will end up too long, too . . . but it’s one of those “No way to know in advance” issues. The blocking might change the length, it might not. For that matter, my arms aren’t that long anyway, so they might be too long already . . .

Hmm. See? That’s why I like knitting in one piece . . . you can try things on as you go . . .

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Seeing Double // 10 Comments »

It’s been a relaxing Sunday for the most part–I did some laundry and cleaned the bathroom. I cooked a complete pot roast supper for all of us. (Yes, Chappy got some, too.) I read one book and started another…

We took Chappy out for a walk and met up with his two favorite neighbors, who joined us on the walk and came back to our house to see vacation/prom pictures. (Because, really, they show us pictures of their new grandchildren ALL the time, it’s only fair!) Chappy was beyond thrilled to have them IN his house.

Other than that, though? Really, it’s been pretty quiet. I’m racking my brain to come up with something more interesting to say, but honestly, it’s just been a quiet day. It’s back to work tomorrow (sigh)–something to which neither Chappy nor I am looking forward. After a whole week together practically ALL the time, the heading-back-to-the-office thing is HARD.

It’s my nephew’s 14th birthday though, today. And it didn’t even rain like it was supposed to . . . hopefully, he’s out enjoying his new bike somewhere . . .

Happy birthday, nephew.

We just really can’t believe how big you’re getting . . . and tall!

And, also? I’m out of school 18 years today.

Talk about Unbelievable.

• Tags: Family, General • Permalink:Unbelievable // 5 Comments »

Well, Kim might not technically qualify as an “old” friend, since I only met her in March, but it was so nice having her and the Kiwi come visiting today. (The Kiwi and I, of course, having known each other since December 2004.)

Somehow, though, I don’t think she (the Kiwi) is missing me at all. I mean, I hadn’t touched her since November of 2005, she looks much, much happier now. Fulfilled. Appreciated.

Yes, I’m still talking about the Kiwi . . . although, come to think of it . . . Kim does, too. She is clearly very much enjoying spinning these days. She might not be an old friend, yet, but I think she’s on the way to being a good friend–which, really, is what matters. Her bag of hand-dyed roving from Liz was lovely. (Wilton cake dyes, maybe, Liz?) She brought some lavendar pound cake, too, which was very yummy. It’s nice to eat someone else’s baking once in a while (grin).

Mystery Project? 100% finished. Now I just have to try to contain myself until it’s time to give it to the recipient. I just hope he/she will appreciate this bag/sweater/vest/gift. I’m assured by my mother that this is not an issue, that he/she will love it . . . I just hope that she’s right! All it really needs to be perfect is a “Handmade for You” kind of label. (And, well, better beading skills would have been nice.)

But, really, it was kind of nice pulling out my old sewing machine. I noticed on the back that it has a 25 year warranty, and by my calculations, I should just about be at that . . . give or take a year or so. I think I got my Kenmore as a 16th birthday present, but it might have been 15th . . . but, it was kind of funny to see that label and realize that I have, in fact, owned it for just about that long. Poor thing. It doesn’t get out much, either. October was the last time. And before that? About four years, I think–when I pieced together my still-unfinished quilt (you know, to get it done “quickly”).

It’s been cloudy/rainy here today (though, luckily, the rain didn’t start until after 2:00, so there was time for a walk for Chappy), so instead of OUR sky from today, here’s another pic from Martha’s Vineyard earlier in the week. Really, it’s much prettier than all that gray we’ve got, don’t you think?

We haven’t heard any details yet, but apparently my niece had a great time at her prom last night. Which is wonderful, but it’s kind of killing my Mom that she hasn’t gotten a play-by-play account . . . Of course, to be fair, tomorrow is my nephew’s 14th birthday, so I’m sure my sister’s been pretty busy today. Understandable, naturally.

Oh, and before I forget, I’ve been tagged a couple of times for the “Seven/Eight Weird Things” meme, but really, I’ve done that one already. Although, since the last time there were just Six things required . . .

Let’s see . . . 7. Unless I’m actually doing something like cooking, knitting, spinning, holding a leash, I more or less find it impossible to talk without using my hands.

• Tags: Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Old Friends // 4 Comments »

You’ll be pleased to know that, despite the cloudy, looks-like-rain weather we had for most of the day, I did not waste my day off, frittering away the time reading or playing on the internet.

Or, you know, not entirely.

There’s one, last, little, step do on my Mystery Project, and then it’s done.

Really, I can’t wait to show you the whole thing.

Not only that, but I DID spend some quality time with my book, and with Chappy, and yes, I may have spent a little time online, too . . . And while it was wet outside when I got up this morning, it did not actually rain today. The sun even came out around 3:00, so that Chappy and I got to go for a nice walk.

But most importantly, as a good aunt, I don’t want it raining on my niece’s parade tonight. Or, technically, her prom. Mom went up to see her and take pictures, like a good grandmother should, and I, um, borrowed her pictures so I could share with you. (Yes, you, personally!) Gotta love that 1940s hair-style….

So, let’s see . . . yep. That’s really about it.

Let me think.

I trimmed Chappy’s nails this morning, which was badly needed, but which he hates.

Oh, and I also transplanted my new violets so they can hang out with the ones I already had. They all seem very happy together.

Another author I liked passed away–Lloyd Alexander, author of the Chronicles of Prydian (The Book of Three, The Black Cauldron, the Castle of Llyr, Taran Wanderer, and The High King.) According to the obit, he was 83 and his wife just passed two weeks ago. That always seems kind of sweet….

• Tags: Uncategorized • Permalink:Home Vacation 2 // 6 Comments »

Okay, the last time I posted pansy pictures, they were gleaned from the internet because, well, I don’t exactly garden. These, though? Luckily, Martha’s Vineyard is famous for its gardens….

(Although, really, in the interests of full-disclosure, I should probably mention that Mom took three of these . . . but I’m not saying which ones!)

Brought to you by:

• Tags: Eye-Candy Friday, Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:Pansies // 3 Comments »

Just in case you’re wondering how far away Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts is…

I love the sign, and Mom particularly likes that it plots the distance to Waterville, Maine (at the very bottom), because that’s where her mother was born.

So, anyway, today we’re home.

Well, we didn’t STAY home the entire day. It’s supposed to rain for the next few days, so we didn’t want to waste the chance for a walk in the park.

Which Chappy definitely enjoyed–even if it did mean having to get in the car again.

Mom, Chappy, and I are still pretty tired, so we kept the walk-part short, but still, it was nice.

It’s been a few weeks since we’ve been to the park, and what a difference! It’s like an explosion of growth–leaves, grasses, all that. But most especially, the skunk cabbage, which is plentiful and huge.

At least, I’m pretty sure it’s skunk cabbage, but I’m positive that there’s lots and lots and lots…

But, otherwise? We were home by 1:00 and spent the afternoon mostly relaxing. I cooked Chappy a batch of food, and made tea for Mom and me this afternoon. As in, mugs of tea, which we drank with the Death by Chocolate we brought home from the Black Dog bakery yesterday. I’m almost done with my “book du jour,” and plan to finish it momentarily. It’s even possible that I might have dozed off a little there. I know Chappy has. He’s zonked today, and has spent as much time as possible today, just being glad to be HOME.

Really, I know the feeling. It’s just a shame tomorrow’s supposed to be rainy. It’s my niece’s Senior Prom tomorrow . . . I don’t want her getting wet!

One last thing–I saw this sign by a church in Oak Bluffs the other day, and it just cracked me up….

Nope–one MORE last thing–I just read about this site: Kiva. A do-gooding site with such a great premise . . . I only just heard about it about 1.5 minutes ago, so can’t vouch for it beyond just saying, “Wow, how great.” And so I pass on the knowledge to you, to do with what you will….

• Tags: Chappy, Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:Home Vacation // 5 Comments »

Booking Through Thursday

It happens even to the best readers from time to time… you close the
cover on the book you’re reading and discover, to your horror, that
there’s nothing else to read. Either there’s nothing in the house, or
nothing you’re in the mood for. Just, nothing that “clicks.” What do
you do?? How do you get the reading wheels turning again?

————–I hate it when that happens! In fact, it’s one of the reasons I like reading series so much . . . the progression from book to book is already laid out (grin). This usually happens to me when I’ve read too many “similar” books in a row–either the same genre, the same author, the same series, the same “feel” . . . whatever. So I find that the only thing that really works for me is to do a 180 and pick something completely different. A mystery if I’ve been reading too much fantasy. A historical-fiction book if I’ve been reading too much science-fiction. Something completely unlike what I’ve just finished. Something fresh to the palate.

• Tags: Reading • Permalink:Bookless // 13 Comments »

Well, we’re safely home.

Here’s a recap of the day for you:

A pair of “hitchhikers” that came home with us. I’ve missed having African Violets that actually bloom (since mine are still recovering from their January surgery), so I decided I’d bring one home as a souvenir. So Mom and I stopped at Donaroma’s yesterday, but I couldn’t choose only one, so . . . um . . . two of them followed me home. Now I just need to get them some prettier pots than the plastic ones they came in . . . good thing I still have two more days off!

My socks while on the ferry this morning. We caught (as usual) an earlier ferry than we had tickets for, and ended up on the delivery boat–the one you have to back onto–so there was plenty of light to knit with. Once we finished our breakfasts. First thing this morning, Mom and I drove to Edgartown to get our food from Espresso Love and ate that on the ferry. You’ll have to excuse the vastly-streaky windshield. Pollen, you know. So MANY things in bloom! But you’ll be pleased to know I cleaned it when I stopped to fill up the gas tank.

As usual, we stopped at Olde Mistick Village for a stretch-the-legs break (very important, especially for the furry one of us). Chappy was happy to add a couple more admirers to his list. If he had an autograph book for fans, it would be full by now!

A peek at the earrings I bought. I couldn’t entirely resist the temptation to buy jewelry, but since none of these was too expensive (not less than $25 but not more than $40 or so), I indulged.

And look–pretty notecards! A set of Cara’s latest, that was waiting for me when I got home, and a set from Stephen Huneck that I brought home with me.

Okay, I’m not QUITE as wiped out as Chappy was last night, but after covering 300 or so miles today, followed by unpacking, doing laundry, giving Chappy a bath . . . I’m a little tired. So . . . good night, all!

• Tags: Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:MV 2007.5 // 8 Comments »

Well, we had gray, gray skies this morning and lots of gusty wind (as in, gusts up to 45 mph), but still . . . nice day. The sun finally broke through around noon, the temperature climbed up to about 70, but it was comfortable enough with my thankfully-packed wool sweater and socks.

It was our Last Day on the island today. (I capitalize it because that’s the way Mom says it . . . the dreaded, ominous, Last Day Here.) We made a point of spending some time in each town center (Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown). As I said yesterday, we decided not to inflict the car-ride up to the Aquinnah/Gay Head cliffs on Chappy this year, and so have stayed “down island,” and concentrated on eating at our favorite spots, walking our favorite neighborhoods, and visiting our favorite shops.

We spent a couple hours again, sitting at Ocean Park. Chappy snoozed in the back seat while Mom and I enjoyed the view in our gustily-rocking car. We both got out to take a few pictures . . . this one is Mom’s, a close-up of the roof of the bandstand, with the clearing sky turning blue behind it.

Otherwise . . . breakfast at Espresso Love, lunch from the Black Dog, dinner (lobster rolls) from David Ryan’s. My car smells like coffee beans, and I may even have bought a bottle or two of Chicama Vineyards wine, the only vineyard on the island. And, um, maybe a pair of earrings (or four).

Doesn’t Mom look happy, though?

Incidentally, speaking of Martha’s Vineyard, did those of you who read Philip Craig’s Vineyard-based mysteries know that he died last week? Such a shame–and so sudden, to a fast-moving cancer.

Oh, and on a non-vacation note, I’m so relieved that Friday Night Lights is coming back. And How I Met Your Mother (which I had heard was on the “bubble.”) I’m seriously worried about Veronica Mars, though . . . but trying to just be thankful it made it to three seasons….

• Tags: Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:MV 2007.4 // 10 Comments »

So, remember the other day when I said I was picking my Claudia Hand-Painted “Walk in the Woods” yarn for my next pair of socks because it most reminded me of Martha’s Vineyard Colors?

Well–take the plummy-browns and greens of sea grass, add in the blue-greens of the water and, here you are.

Practically perfect, really.

(And, isn’t it nice to see that I’ve been doing more than just reading and walking around with Mom and Chappy? Real knitting progress!)

It’s been another lovely day today. Blue sky, temperatures around 65-70. The breeze has kicked up, so it got kind of windy this afternoon, but . . . who cares? It’s beautiful.

We did a bunch of shopping today, along with spending a fair amount of time sitting along Ocean Park in Oak Bluffs, enjoying the day.

We haven’t headed up-island at all–we’ve been sticking near the three town centers. Tomorrow, if it’s not too cold and/or windy, Chappy wants to romp at the beach. He does enjoy splashing in the waves!

And yes, Chappy ate his breakfast AND his supper, and looked longingly at the hamburgers Mom and I ate. Nor was he nearly as cranky as he was yesterday–although we’re noticing that he needs more-frequent naps than he used to. At almost 6 years old, he’s not an old dog, but he’s definitely reached the middle-aged demographic. He likes his comforts these days.

Still, though, he thinks it unfair that, as a four-legged person, he’s not allowed into the carousel. I mean, it IS the oldest one in the country.

• Tags: Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:MV 2007.3 // 12 Comments »

Do they look like happy Mom feet? Serenely sitting next to Edgartown harbor in their brand-new, fresh-off-the-needles socks on Mother’s Day?

Yep. That’s what I thought, too.

Despite my extreme headache, I finished knitting them last night and wove the ends in this morning. Finished them just in the nick of time! Happy Birthday/Happy Mother’s Day, Mom.

We had an exciting morning, too. First, at 4:30, Chappy woke up. We’re not sure if he just decided it was time to get up, or if he needed to go to the bathroom, or what . . . but he woke us both up. I can’t remember the last time he woke me up in the middle of the night. I did take him out–even though it was raining–but still am not sure if that was why he woke me in the first place.

Then, when we’d finally gotten back to sleep, at 5:30 . . . the radio-alarm went off. I leaned over and tried to turn it off, pushing every button I could think of, starting with the snooze button, but . . . nothing. The radio just kept on playing. Finally, Mom realized that the music was coming from the other bedroom. Now, really . . . this radio was loud enough to wake all three of us up in the next room at 5:30 in the morning. Sheesh! She said she thought somebody had left it as a prank, but I think that it was the last person in our room, who had a really early ferry they didn’t want to miss. (Yes, I’m an optimist, she’s a pessimist.)

Still, we did manage to get back to sleep. When we got up, Chappy opted not to eat his breakfast and just seemed . . . cranky. Which, for those of you who know him in person, is completely out of character for him. I don’t know if he just didn’t sleep, or what, but he really wasn’t feeling the vacation “vibe” this morning. Nevertheless, we headed off to Espresso Love for breakfast–Mom’s absolute favorite, blueberry scones. We walked around Edgartown for a while, did a little shopping, bought Chappy a biscuit from the Black Dog, and eventually got him cheered up.

This might have helped a bit. “A Dog’s Guide to Life” by Joe Cotton, illustrated by Deb Hoeffner. I spotted this at the bookstore and thought the dog on the cover looked kind of like Chappy. I picked it up and started flipping through it . . . the illustrations looked amazingly like Chappy . . . So I looked even more carefully. Yep. Moose, the dog whose “philosophy” is expounded here, was a Boykin Spaniel.

Naturally, I had to buy it, right? The illustrations are adorable. The book itself is pure, sentimental fluff . . . but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, right? And the illustrations that look so like Chappy were worth the $5.99.

Our weather was lovely, once the early morning rain cleared away. (As in, when I took Chappy out for his bathroom break at 4:30 this morning, it was raining. Of course.) We spent the afternoon walking around Oak Bluffs, and spent a couple hours just sitting in the car along Ocean Park, watching kids chasing geese, out playing with their Moms.

We got dinner from the Black Dog Tavern–Chicken Piccatta, which was excellent, and some Black-out chocolate cake–both of which we split. Chappy’s exhausted and zonked out on the floor. And all in all, it’s been a lovely day. Mom likes her socks. The weather was beautiful–about 65 degrees–not too hot, not too cold.

I hope your day was as good!

Happy Mother’s Day, everyone!

• Tags: Finished Knitting, Knitting/Spinning, Martha's Vineyard, Reading • Permalink:MV 2007.2 // 12 Comments »

Well, here we are, safely arrived on Martha’s Vineyard.

Allowing for some road work-related traffic on I-95 through Connecticut, the drive was pretty uneventful. Chappy was looking pretty queasy at one point, though, licking his lips . . . so we pulled off the highway just long enough for me to get into the backseat with him. He seems to do a little better with company back there–reassuring pats and someone to help buffer the bumps and turns. (Sadly, he appears to be backsliding in the carsickness stakes, since we went to visit Liz last year. Not that I’m blaming her or the roads in Maryland, you understand. Really, it’s I-95 in Philadelphia that I hold responsible. But that’s another story.)

Anyway, the important thing is that we’re here and did NOT need to use the carsickness kit. (That would be a ziploc bag with paper towels, a smaller ziploc with Clorox wipes, a garbage bag, and moist towelettes. At least, I do plan ahead.)

Here’s some Vineyard Sky for you–a lovely blue over Edgartown Harbor. That’s Chappy’s namesake, Chappaquiddick in the distance.

Really, we’re all pretty tired. We left the house at 8:00 and caught the 2:30 ferry out of Woods Hole. We spent an hour at Mystic, Connecticut for lunch, and for Chappy to stretch his legs. Our timing was excellent–they were having a puppy-training session in the center of Olde Mistic Village, so he got to see lots of dogs and dog lovers. He was gushed over by slews of friendly people who were dying to know what kind of dog he was. He even met a rescue St. Bernard who had been deserted, chained under a deck, and was about 30 lbs underweight, but a real sweetheart.

Basically, all the attention and adoration, on top of no-breakfast and feeling carsick took a lot out of him, and now he’s completely zonked out on the living room floor. We stay at the Island Inn, and our favorite room is really a suite. Two bedrooms–one of which we sleep in and the other which we use as a staging area, a living room and a kitchenette. Which came in handy since Chappy’s supper was still frozen solid when we got here, so that the microwave was very much appreciated.

But mostly? He’s just glad to be out of the car!

• Tags: Family, Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:MV 2007.1 // 10 Comments »

I don’t have much time tonight to post because I’ve been busy packing.

But here, let me remind you where I’m going.

I’ve got my suitcase packed. My knitting is ready to go–I’m leaving Tatami at home, but bringing my Celtic Icon and Mom’s socks–which hopefully will be done by Sunday. I’m not bringing my spinning. I thought about it, but there’s just not that much room in the trunk, and really, sitting with a book or my knitting sounds more relaxing than all that treadling (grin–I did put a spindle in my bag, though, just in case). The hardest part, as always, was picking out the books to bring along. Good thing there are bookstores up there.

Okay . . . gotta go!

• Tags: Martha's Vineyard • Permalink:Packing // 9 Comments »

Mom bought these grapes today and they just looked so, so beautiful . . . and, what with Mom, Chappy, and I heading for Martha’s Vineyard tomorrow, that much more appropriate to show for today’s Eye Candy, don’t you think?

Frankly, just scrolling through the pictures is making my mouth water….

Brought to you by:

• Tags: Eye-Candy Friday • Permalink:Vineyard-esque // 6 Comments »

Unfortunately, it was this baby. The one with the really expensive taste in shoes. (Do you know how many shoes I could buy for what hers cost?)

I only bought her one pair–the other two are in still good enough shape to wait a while. Interestingly though, the two tires with the most wear were both on the passenger side. If it had been both front tires or both back tires, that would have made sense to me, but how odd that it would be two on the side?

But, anyway, Dad and I had a fun game of Musical Cars today. Although, really, he’s got his radio tuned to all-talk radio, so his car’s not that musical. First, he sort of followed me over to the mechanic on my way to work this morning. I say “sort of” because I left first, but we each took different routes and he got there first. I dropped off the keys with Frank and then Dad gave me a lift to the office.

About 10:00, he drove me back over, and as we walked in, Frank (on the phone) glanced up and said, “She needs new tires,” and Dad said, “This is going to be an expensive vacation check-up.” Ouch. No kidding! Frank showed me the wearing treads, we picked out the tires, and opted for two instead of four. But, of course, they didn’t have the tires there, so my car wouldn’t be ready until the afternoon. Except that Dad and Frank were going to be golfing this afternoon, so I wouldn’t have a ride . . .

What they decided was that Dad would drive me back to the office, and then come home until 11:30, when they’d be leaving. Then he picked up our neighbor across the street, drove with him to the garage, where Walter got into Frank’s car, and then they trekked sedately back to the office, where Dad parked, handed me his keys and went off to golf. I drove his car (a Cadillac, nonetheless) home for lunch, and then drove it back to the garage at the end of the day, leaving his in their parking lot and driving my Volvo home.

I know. Confusing, huh? But isn’t it handy that my Dad is best friends and golfing buddies with our mechanic? And, as a thank you for all the extra trips he made, I filled his gas tank up for him before I dropped off the car . . . you know, despite being $300 poorer for the new tires and maintenance.

To add insult to injury, in amongst my travels today–the house, my car, the garage, Dad’s car, the parking lot, the office, Dad’s car, the garage, the car bays, Dad’s car, the office, lunchtime walk with Chappy, etcetera–I lost an earring. The second to this tiny precious little seedpod of an earring. I don’t wear them very often because they don’t show well in amongst my curls, but I love them . . . Or, well, it. Because its partner has left us. I have no idea when. I noticed halfway through our lunchtime walk, when I had pretty much covered the maximum amount of ground for the day. Poor thing. It looks so lonely. I don’t think even my Grandfather can help with this one.

Hmmm …. I wonder if I could turn it into a stitch marker?

Hey, fiber-wise, this is pretty interesting.

• Tags: General • Permalink:Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes // 7 Comments »

So, judging by last week’s answers, apparently the question I should have been asking was:

Where DON’T you read??

Well, let’s see . . . I don’t read while driving, while showering, or while at work. I don’t read when I’m in a restaurant (unless I’m by myself). I don’t read when I’m out for walks with Chappy or with friends
. I don’t read in the dark, or when I’m sleeping. I don’t read at (most) parties or social events. I don’t read when I’m spinning and hardly ever when I’m knitting.

Really, it’ll probably be faster to show you . . .

Not while playing in the snow, either.

But, otherwise? Basically, so long as my hands are dry and I’m not doing something that requires full concentration for safety reasons or for other reasons, or that requires two hands, and I’m awake, I’m reading. Yes, I read while . . . .

Eating. Brushing my teeth. Lying in bed. In front of the television. During lunch. While stirring things on the stove. While waiting for webpages to load. In the bathroom. Between answering emails. While out in public. Waiting for airplanes. During any spare five minutes I can find. Hey, I’ve even read in dark-ish movie theaters while waiting for the film to begin.

(Really, this was rather a silly question. I mean, I might as well have asked when I am or am not breathing, or some other entirely necessary-for-life activity….)

• Tags: Reading • Permalink:Where Not? // 15 Comments »

I’m trying so hard to find fibery things to talk about.

I mean, my Tatami sweater seems to be permanently stuck at the halfway point. The sleeves for my Celtic Icon–which I’m working on every night–don’t seem to be making noticeable progress. An inch a night. Maybe. If I’m lucky.

On the plus side, Mom’s socks are at least moving. I’m trying very hard to get them done for Mother’s Day for her. I started them, you’ll remember, the weekend after her birthday. Which makes sense, since they’re her birthday present. We went out to buy the yarn together and everything . . . but of course, it’s been three months now, and Mother’s Day here in the U.S. is on Sunday, so . . . that’s my new goal.

The progress report? The feet are done. The heels are done. And I’ve got about half of the length of the leg done . . . so at least progress is being made.

There’s always the time in the car on Saturday to catch up, too. We spend about 5 hours in the car on the way up to Martha’s Vineyard, of which we each drive half. So I should have about two and a half hours of passengering, some of which will be spent reading aloud, but some of which can certainly be spent knitting.

I’m planning ahead, though. I’ve wound (optimistically) two more skeins of Silky Wool for my sleeves on the fairly remote chance that I’ll get to a point on the sleeves where I need more yarn. (Yeah. Like I said. Optimist.) But I also wound some more sock yarn–the two skeins of Claudia Handpaint “Walk in the Woods” that I won from Kim in March. I’m not entirely sure that this will be the next sock yarn I use. I’m sorely tempted by the Seawool, too. The Claudia Handpaint actually has more blue in it than appears in this photo–which makes it very “beachy,” I think, and of course, the Seawool has SeaCell in it, which also makes it “beachy,” so really, either would do wonderfully on Martha’s Vineyard, don’t you think?

Oh–and the book from yesterday? I returned it today and am thinking I won’t bother with the English version. (Not unless whoever recommended it in the first place–I’d pre-ordered it at least a couple months ago–can remind me of WHY I ordered it to begin with.) But–when choosing my “Reason for Return” at Amazon’s site, I was seriously tempted to select “Product is not fully compatible with my existing system.” Because, of course, it’s not since my “system” doesn’t speak or read Spanish, but . . . I figured they wouldn’t get the joke . . .

• Tags: Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Trying // 4 Comments »

One, tiny, little step and this, my Mystery Project is completely done.

You can’t really tell, but yes, all the seams are sewn, all the ends are woven, there’s just one thing left to do, all in good time before Birthday Season starts on Friday.

My sister’s family, you’ll remember, all have birthdays within four weeks of each other, between May 11th and June 7th. Add in not one, but two graduations on June 8th and it’s a busy gift-giving season here at Chappy’s.

I still have a couple things to pick up for Birthday Season, but pretty much have it under control. Knowing that this, my mystery project, is (almost) done is quite a comfort.

Okay, now about other little things?

I got an order from Amazon today, including this book–Shantaram. I don’t remember now if it was recommended, or if I came across it on my own, but it was getting fabulous reviews, so I ordered it.

Well, it came today, and there’s one little problem.

This edition is in Spanish.

Now, as soon as I got the order, I went back and looked at that order page. (Go ahead, I’ll wait.)

There’s one little reference to “Spanish Edition” in there, but everything else on the order page is in English. The excerpt is in English. The comments are all in English. Judging by the comments, I’m not the only one this happened to. I’ve been ordering from Amazon since something like 1996 and NEVER had this happen before. I’ve never done a search for a book (outside the Foreign Language category) and had anything come up that wasn’t in English. Maybe I should have seen that it said “Spanish,” but really . . . why would I have even thought to look??

So, now the question is–do I return it? Exchange it for the English edition? Or just give up?

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning, Reading • Permalink:The Little Things // 17 Comments »

It’s been a relaxing kind of Sunday, so even if I don’t have bags of new wool to play with like some other people I know, at least I’m refreshed to start the work week tomorrow.

The exciting events here at Chappy’s house today? Let’s see. I got up this morning, and while my oatmeal simmered on the stove, mixed up a pound cake–which took about 40 minutes to assemble and an hour and a quarter to bake. (Thanks, Amy!)

I did some seaming on my Mystery Project, which is now 98% finished. But still, I can’t show you pictures.

Mom and I took Chappy for a nice, long, Sunday walk. The weather was beautiful–closer to 60 degrees than 70, so a little too cool to sit outside, but perfect for walking.

I finished my book du jour and started a new one . . . I’m currently on a Dick Francis kick. He writes a decent mystery, but my favorite part of almost all of his books is the hero. All the ones I can think of are told in first person, and his main character is always just such a great guy. Regardless of the age or background, they seem remarkably alike, if only because they always come across as smart, resourceful, decent, helpful men. (Frankly, I would love to meet a man who embodied a Dick Francis hero–having someone like Kit Fielding in my life would be so, so nice.) They’re not the most challenging reads, mind you, which is why I’ve been going through them like water this weekend, and there’s a limit to how many I can read in any given jag, but still. They’re entirely enjoyable while they last.

And, pretty much, that’s about it.

We did have an awfully pretty sunset last night, though.

Oh, and for the record, I’m exactly forty and a half years old today. It’s my “half-birthday.” When we were little, Mom always made a point of wishing my sister and me a happy half-birthday. And, of course, when you’re little being able to say you’re five and a half is just so much better than a measly five…. I mean, it’s not like there were gifts or anything, although she’d usually make a point to make something the “half-birthday-girl” liked for supper, and there was one year when she gave me half a birthday card . . . but anyway, for whatever reason, the date “stuck” and it’s something I always think of on May 6th–that I’m half a year older than I was…. funny, though, how that’s not quite such a comfort as it was when I was five!

• Tags: Baking, General, Sky • Permalink:Relaxing // 11 Comments »

Well, while so many of the rest of you are off gallivanting to the MDSW festival, I threw myself my own little festival.

A small pot of tea, a good book, a hat of fiber, a spinning wheel, a comfy chair, and my adoring Chappy, all out on the deck on a lovely Spring afternoon.

No crowds. Beautiful fiber. Good refreshments . . . as alternatives go, it wasn’t awful.

Quiet, well, yes. And did I spare a thought or two for all you fibery-friends out fondling the fiber, spending your money on woolly goodness without me? Well, also yes.

But still, look at that beautiful blue Saturday sky, seen though the lacy puffs of new green leaves on the trees. (Not to mention Chappy doing his best Vanna White impression, to show it off.) How can you complain about that?

And, for the rest of you who are NOT in Maryland today? I hope your day is going as well as mine!

In other “news,” I started the day with my haircut at 9:30–which I really can’t comment on until tomorrow, after I’ve washed it myself and slept on it so that it looks like “me.” It seems like a decent cut . . . although, really, clearly she needs a ruler, because there’s a lot more gone that one inch. Not that I’m complaining. I knew when I said “one inch” that she’d take off more than that–and that the lighter weight would also let my hair curl up a little tighter so that it looks even shorter. It’s just that should I really need to be that circuitous about instructions to get the haircut I want? Because, again, she definitely took off more than an inch…. But then, since I like to stretch my haircuts as long as possible, it’s okay–just so long as it looks good in the morning.

We also took Chappy into town today. We got refreshments and then sat outside of Starbucks while Chappy did his best to charm passersby into stopping to pet him. He even did all his tricks for one little girl named Cynthia who just adored him . . . So, you know, he’s gotten his quota of adoration for the day. He even got to see his favorite mail-carrier, and everything. (Luckily, I think this means he’s forgiven me for having gone out without him this morning.)

Oh yes, and after my haircut, I stopped at the bookstore and bought a stack. It occured to me the other day that I didn’t have anything “new” to bring on vacation next week, and well, that won’t do. Browsing on Amazon wasn’t helping . . . sometimes, you’ve just GOT to go to a bookstore in person. So I browsed the “new releases” table and around the stacks and came home with a pretty nice assortment–fiction and fantasy, a history book, a couple travel books, and two books about reading/spelling.

Hey, a girl’s got to keep herself entertained, you know. Especially when so many friends are off having fun without her . . .

• Tags: General, Hair, Reading, Sky • Permalink:Fiber Festival for One // 10 Comments »

So, to give you an idea how slowly my sweater is still going, well, slowly.

Here are the two sleeves. They’re about 12.5″ right now, and need to be 18″ before starting to shape the raglan sleeve cap. Or maybe 17″, to make the sleeves fit better. But still . . . I’m only 2/3 to the point where I get to start the decreases.

I figure it’s got at least a month of knitting to go.

And then there’s the hood to go.

I’m starting to feel that this sweater is going to take me eight or nine months . . . I mean, I started it in October, for heaven’s sake. But, really . . . 9 months just to knit a sweater? Why? Why? (grin)

I got a letter in the mail today, though, which is nice. You’ll remember (or maybe you don’t) that I signed up for Domesticat’s Knitter’s Letter Writing exchange. I thought this was such a nifty idea, that when she asked for some letter angels to be pals to some last minute joiners, I volunteered. Because, who doesn’t love getting a nice letter?

Well, to date, I’ve mailed out two letters to my recipient-pals. I’ve gotten two letters from pals of my own, both of which I’ve answered and mailed responses back to. And today, I got one reply from one of the women I originally wrote to. I love letters. I’m a little disappointed that I haven’t heard back from my original pal, but haven’t given up on her. But I wrote her letter the very first day, and she lives in the same country, but I’ve heard back from my second pal in England already–and she nicely apologized for having taken so long. I don’t care, though–this was such a fun idea. And really, I just love getting mail.

I saw this nifty little photographer’s tip for making a string tripod. I haven’t tried it, but it sounded pretty cool.

Now, I hope everyone flocking to Maryland this weekend has a fabulous time. Me? I’ve got a haircut scheduled in the morning, my first since December. I’m a little nervous about it, as always, which is probably silly, but . . . can’t help it! It is needed, though. I love my hair long, but it’s just on the edge of being “too” long, so . . . it’s time!

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Focus on Friday // 7 Comments »

Eep. I almost forgot!

Since I took pictures of my desk for you last week, I guess the best I can do today is show you where I actually AM. (In fact, if you squint, you can just about see my car parked in front of the building.)

Do you see me waving??

Brought to you by:

• Tags: Eye-Candy Friday • Permalink:Satellite // 3 Comments »

Nice things in today’s mail, helping to soften my most recent dentist visit. (And, gosh, a whole four weeks to relax before the next one. Sigh.)

But, really, we’re talking about the good stuff!

Like the most recent (and, I believe, my last) installment of Sundara Yarn’s Petals Collection–Dahlia. How to describe this color? It’s like a deep, intense, coral. Sort of. Too yellow to be pink. Too pink to be red. But not at all pastely, like “coral” usually is.

Really, it’s just lovely.

Not only that, but it brought a very-well coordinated friend along in the mail stream. The latest copy of Interweave Knits. I mean really, look how well it looks next to that sweater on the cover, huh?

I like the Notre Dame pullover quite a lot–it looks very comfy and very wearable. The Summertime Tunic camisole is pretty, even if not something I’d be likely to wear–but, you know, I like it anyway. The Spiral Boot socks are pretty, the motorcycle gloves kind of nifty . . . some nice things in there, even if it’s not an issue I’m wowed by. Not overwhelmed, not underwhelmed, just . . . whelmed. It’s nice.

(Anybody else remember this Broadway lyric? “You’re so nice. You’re not good, you’re not bad, you’re just … nice. I’m not good, I’m not nice, I’m just right….”)

Hey–technical question for you: If you’re sewing two knit pieces together, in two completely different colors, which one do you use for the seaming yarn? The light one, or the dark one? Opinions??

Oh yes. I’ve joined a KAL for the summer–Jessica’s Summer of Socks. I’m not exactly going to be winning any speed prizes, but I WILL be knitting socks during the summer, this I know, so . . . why not join? I figure I’ve already met the requirements . . . that of working on socks between June 21st and September 21st, so why not play with others, huh? Come join us!

And, oh, as a reader, this is just sad….

Although I’m delighted to see one of my favorites on this list.

No, not THAT kind of  R.I.P.

Reading. In. Public.

Do you do it? Why or why not?

Gee, good question, Deb!

I used to ALL the time, but not so much anymore. When I was younger, I never went anywhere without a book. When I was old enough to start carrying purses, I always bought one that would be big enough for a paperback. I’d read at the movies before they dimmed the lights. In school while waiting for classes to start. While out on errands with Mom. It’s possible I even sneaked a peek at Church once or twice, waiting for services to start. (There, it helped that our minister was as big a fan of fantasy/sci-fi as I was–we even traded books every Sunday.)

Then, of course, there was college, when it was pretty much my responsibility as a good student to crack books open at every opportunity . . . whether they supported class credits or not. I think I spent almost as much time at the Rose Library reading novels for a break as I did actually doing, you know, studying. I’ve also read in restaurants over solitary meals while on vacation. Or, of course, while waiting at a doctor’s office, or in an airport, or some such thing.

But while, still, I DO read in public from time to time, my opportunities have dwindled greatly. I drive myself to work, and of course, that’s not exactly public-minded of me, to read while driving. I mostly go straight to work and come straight home, so on weekdays, there’s really no opportunity to read in public. On Saturdays, we’ll run errands, go to the park, go shopping, hang out over coffee . . . but it’s kind of rude to read while out for coffee with someone (unless you specifically planned to study or work or something). So for the most part, these days, if I’ve got a few free minutes while I’m out somewhere–I’ll usually pull out my knitting, which isn’t as rude to whomever I’m with.

Unless, of course, I’m out on my own. In which case, well, of course!!

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning, Reading • Permalink:Snail Mail // 12 Comments »

I’m really nowhere near ready to sew the zipper into my Celtic Icon, but you know me. I like to plan ahead.

So, this weekend, I ordered some zippers, crossing my fingers all the while that the color of at least one of them would match.

This is the hard part about ordering without having a color card–but even if I’d wanted to buy one, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out which one I’d need . . . the “Outerwear,” I think, but am not sure.

Anyway, it doesn’t matter that much. In direct sunlight, it doesn’t really look like any of them are a match. (For the record, that’s Cranberry, Mocca and Mustang.)

But, for that matter, the sweater doesn’t normally look quite so vividly purple, either–although that sun sure brought out the cable pattern, huh??

In more “normal” light, though, I could be satisfied with either of two of them, with the Cranberry in the lead, I think.

(And no, I don’t really know why I didn’t order the “Shadows,” which is the only one on my computer screen that looks remotely plum-like.)

As I said though, I’m still fooling myself. The sleeves aren’t even to the halfway point yet, and there’s still the hood to go. It’s not like the matter of the zipper is all that urgent, you know? But a girl can dream.

Hey, Trek is looking for ideas of fun things to do with her kid for the summer. She’s trying to reach 145 comments and is having a contest. (To enter, you must comment on this entry, but check out some of the ideas she listed in that other link–who knew you could make your own sidewalk chalk? Anyone? Show of hands??)

Is it just me? Or are other people thrilling to the way Ruth plays with color? Like when she took these colors and did this? This entire Playing With Color series is fascinating.

Abby’s explanation on how to make a tweed blend for spinning is interesting, too, though I don’t think I’ll get much use out of it, not having a drum carder, but that doesn’t matter–her explanation and illustrative pictures are brilliant all on their own.

Oh, and the Mystery Project Seaming project?

Moving right along….

(Knitting shown in black and white to protect the innocent.)

[Read more →]

• Tags: General, Knitting/Spinning • Permalink:Zipping Along // 7 Comments »

Here are the books I read in April:

1. WORLD WITHOUT END by Sean Russell (606 p.) One of my absolute favorites. Taking place in a world similar to our 18th century, Tristam Flattery, a dedicated “empiricist” heads off for a voyage of scientific discovery, yet mysterious things keep happening . . . the author has said the idea behind this book was what if Darwin had gone exploring and discovered magic instead? An intriguing premise, but the best part is that he does this so, so well. I love the story, love the characters, love the writing…. Don’t just take my word for it–here’s what Roger Turner had to say: “Have you ever found a book that you don’t want to end?  Ever?  I’ve discovered a few
in almost forty years of reading science fiction and fantasy.  This is one.  I wish I could
explain why it held me in such thrall.  Characters?  Plot?  Prose?  Setting?  Yeah, I suppose
so but that’s not it.  I just remember each time I picked it up there was a languid ache knowing
that, with each page, I’d have less to read.  Finishing it was like the day I knew for
certain that it was time to leave school and go out into the world.  I could only sigh, look
back and remember.”

2. SEA WITHOUT A SHORE by Sean Russell (598 p.) The second book, which tells the end of Tristam’s voyage. They arrive at the south-pacific-type island of Varua and get sucked into a web of plots and taboos centering around the herb Tristam has been pledged to find . . . These are boring descriptions, really, but the books are wonderful. The writing is fabulous, the world is very distinct and real  . . . they are the first two of the books I’ve read by this author (who writes all too slowly for my taste), and they remain my favorites. As in, I’ve read the two of them twelve times now, and enjoy them just as much, ever single time.

3. KNITTING by Anne Bartlett (270 p.) An Australian book telling of two very different women who meet by accident and build a friendship based on knitting . . . the one woman is an emotionally-shaky master knitter, the other is an emotionally-shaky academic who focuses on fiber arts . . . A nice story of two women who have almost nothing in common . . . this is not a book about knitting, it’s about emotional healing.

4. SHATTERED SILK by Barbara Michaels (306 p.) An oldish, “fluff” kind of mystery-ish story . . . (nice and clear, huh?) Karen has just left her cheating husband and is staying with her aunt and uncle in Washington DC, where she gets swept up in plans to start her own vintage clothing store . . . but first, she has to deal with whomever keeps breaking into the house, attacking her, making threats . . . and, oh yes, there’s the old boyfriend to deal with . . . Fun.

5. WRAPT IN CRYSTAL by Sharon Shinn (324 p.) A very religious kind of sci-fi mystery. On Semay, someone is murdering priestesses from the two main religions–basically opposite sides of the same goddess–and Cowen Drake has been sent to figure out why. I’ve said many, many times how much I love Sharon Shinn’s writing, and this book is no exception. There’s a little more heartache than in some of her other books, but oh, there’s redemption, too, as Drake explores the two sects, trying to piece together the reason that anyone would be killing these women  . . .

6. HOUSEKEEPING by Marilynne Robinson (213 p.) A misty, dreamy kind of book with the clearest and most distinct descriptions . . . I do love a book with great, descriptive passages, and this book is wonderfully evocative, telling the story of the two orphaned sisters, Lorrette and Ruthie, being raised by their aunt Sylvie, a drifter at heart, but doing her best to stay put for the two girls . . .

7. MASQUE OF THE BLACK TULIP by Lauren Willig (425 p.) Another fluff kind of book, but also great fun–the sequel to the “Secret of the Pink Carnation,” it tells the story of the spies that followed the Scarlet Pimpernel, bracketed by the story of Eloise, the modern-day grad student studying the archives for her dissertation. Silly and fun, but highly readable.

8. THREE MEN IN A BOAT (TO SAY NOTHING ABOUT THE DOG) by Jerome K. Jerome (250 p.). Speaking of silly and fun . . . I’ve heard Jerome Jerome compared to PG Wodehouse (or, the other way around, really), but hadn’t realized why before . . . now I understand, having read this story of three friends taking a “relaxing” trip down the Thames as a way to recover from the stresses of their daily life . . . or, at least, that’s the idea. Taking place approximately 1888, obviously, these are the grandparents of Bertie Wooster and the others from the Drones Club . . . it explains a lot, actually . . .

10. EPITAPH FOR A PEACH by David Mas Masumoto (233 p.) This book was a gift. Beautiful. Elegiac. Poetic. Wistful. Evocative. Just . . . a beautiful read. In fact, I stretched this book out over a month, just to be able to savor it. It is a memoir of a year on the author’s farm as he struggles to save his heirloom peaches in a marketplace more interested in durability than in taste. Not only does he write beautiful prose, but I could almost taste those Sun Crest peaches. Absolutely wonderful memoir.

11. TO SAY NOTHING OF THE DOG by Connie Willis (493 p.) I love this wacky book. It’s got everything. A unique premise, time-travel, love, comedy, a dog . . . and quite a complicated little plot. The idea is that time-travel is possible and in the not-too-distant future, historians are busily travelling around for research–driven by Mrs. Schrapnell who is insisting on rebuilding Coventry Cathedral exactly as it was before being destroyed in WWII. So naturally, Ned Henry ends up in Victorian England, floating down the Thames. Makes no sense? That’s okay, poor Ned is so “time-lagged” at the beginning, it doesn’t make sense to him, either. And frankly, that’s part of the fun.

12. MR. DARCY’S DIARY by Amanda Grange (329 p.) The story of Pride & Prejudice as told from Mr. Darcy’s diary . . . It was okay, but no comparison to Pamela Aidan’s trilogy (which, while not perfect, was much better). Still, this had it’s moments and it wasn’t awful, and I do love the story, so . . . this was okay.

13. NINETEEN MINUTES by Jodi Picoult (455 p.) Considering the events in Virginia on the 16th, it probably seems strange that I would pick now to read a novel about school shootings–which is what this is. Picoult’s latest explores the causes and after-effects of a high school massacre, telling it from the points of view of the shooter, a girl who was his best friend before she became one of the “cool” kids, and her mother, who becomes judge on the case. She did a great job putting the pieces together, although I wasn’t impressed with her patented surprise twist at the end. (Do any of her books end without a twist at the last minute??) I thought the ending was actually kind of lame, but it’s hard to imagine a way she could have ended it that would have been more satisfying. Or at least, nothing I can say here without spoiling it for anyone. (Like, “Why couldn’t so-and-so- have kept his/her job?” “Why did the author have to make so-and-so basically an accomplice after the fact?” Stuff like that.)

(But still–the reason I chose to read this book now? Sometimes reading a fictional account that’s a variation on something real and tragic that’s all over the airwaves helps cut the agony a little. The week after Katrina hit, I read “Isaac’s Storm” about the 1900 Galveston hurricane–reading the tragedy of all those long-lost lives helped take the edge off the real, current suffering of all the people along the Gulf coast. On the first anniversary of 9/11, I read “The Day the World Came to Town”–which was about as inspiring and happy a story of that day as you can manage, yet still met my own, internal need to honor the anniversary. It’s like the hair of the dog to address a hangover. Or squinting through your fingers during a horror movie. It doesn’t make what’s really happening any less horrific, but dilutes it just enough to be bearable. For me, anyway.)

14. LIADEN UNIVERSE COMPANION #1 by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller (300 p.) 12 short stories about the Liaden world. While not usually a fan of short stories, I enjoyed these. Mostly because I’m happy for any “fix” for these characters and this story. I like these authors!

15. TRUTH MACHINE by James Halperin (378 p.) A reread. This book was written around 1995, and tells the story of the near-future, when a 100%-accurate truth machine is invented, and changes everything . . . I do love a good “what if” story, and this is a good one . .. although the author was perhaps a little optimistic about how far along we’d be by now in terms of things like curing cancer and such . . . And the little too-clever asides from the narrator (like, “Back then, most people still ate three meals a day before it was discovered that grazing was healthier….”) got a little distracting. But those are minor quibbles–all in all, an entertaining look into what the world could be….

16. TEACH YOURSELF VISUALLY: HANDSPINNING by Judith MacKenzie McCuin (202 p.) Yes, as expected, a thoroughly excellent guide to handspinning. Great pictures to demonstrate all the techniques–which, of course, you’d expect in this book.

17. CONSUELO AND ALVA VANDERBILT by Amanda MacKenzie Stuart (509 p.) Biography on a seriously unhappy mother and daughter. Alva, married to Cornelius Vanderbilt’s grandson, has serious plans to marry her daugher Consuelo to a British Duke. And to achieve women’s suffrage. And, basically, have everything her own way . . . A decent biography, well-researched, even if a trifle “breathless” in its tone from time to time. Both women had happiness in their lives, but also so much sadness, stuck in roles defined by their money.

18. LORD VALENTINE’S CASTLE by Robert Silverberg (447 p.) Classic sci-fi. Valentine becomes a juggler on the huge world of Majipoor, but is haunted by strange dreams, until he comes to realize that he is, in fact Lord Valentine, one of the planet’s rulers, displaced by some strange power . . . huge, detailed, epic kind of a story. And, really, how can you not be enticed by a book that begins with the words “And then….”

19. BLINK by Malcolm Gladwell (276 p.) A look at how our minds make instantaneous decisions, based on subconscious, “thin-slices” of information. Fascinating to read. Really interesting points, and very readable.

20. JENNA STARBORN by Sharon Shinn (381 p.) A sci-fi rendition of the story of Jane Eyre. Better than that description sounds (grin). Jenna was born from a “gen tank” but unloved by the woman who had wanted her. She ends up at a charity school, studying to be a nuclear technician. After graduating, she takes a job on a small, terraformed world called Fieldstar . . . basically, you know the story already, but told from a fresh point of view, and with dazzling imagery. There’s a reason that Sharon Shinn is one of my favorite authors.

21. CRYSTAL SOLDIER by Sharon Lee and Steve Miller. (321 p.) The pre-history of the Liaden series, this book (first of a two-part series) tells the story of M. Jela Granthor’s Guard and Cantra yos Phelium–the precursers to the Korval clan. It’s a far different world these two live in, tha the one the Liaden series inhabits. Frankly, I don’t find it nearly as readable, but that’s because the world is SO alien to our own–and, rather than being a reflection on the authors’ skills, I think it actually says a lot FOR them, that they’ve created a world so very different . . . and then, since I love knowing the “beginnings” of stories, it’s a treat to know the source of the famous “I Dare” creed….

22. WATER: TALES OF ELEMENTAL SPIRITS by Robin McKinley and Peter Dickinson (266 p) A fantasy book of short stories, all with a magical-water element. Merpeople, for example, appear in several. Perfectly nice stories, but still . . . as always . . . short stories never quite satisfy me. I always want more! At least they were decent short stories….

• Tags: Monthly Reading List, Reading • Permalink:Reading List from April // 8 Comments »