I have a very dear friend, LB. She has a very sweet teenage daughter, EB, who was our babysitter until she went off to college this year. Knowing how cold the floors of a dorm room can be, I knitted up some very lovely chunky socks in her school colors, black and red (TX Tech). LB saw them and fell in love with them and tried to sneak them out of her daughter's dorm room before they returned home. EB caught her and rescued her socks.
EB came home over Thanksgiving and LB commandeered the socks. EB had been washing the socks in Woolite despite the fact they are made from acrylic yarn. LB decided to throw them in the washing machine, which under normal circumstances, would be fine. But, LB threw in several pairs of blue jeans, including a brand new pair that bled all over the socks. EB was mad and rightfully so. I was miffed at LB for about a day, because I knew I could whip out another pair without any problems- chunky socks, sz. 9 needles, ankle length, 32 stitches total. Easy Peasy, right???
Nope, not as easy as I thought it would be. I placed an order for the yarn right after Thanksgiving thinking I would get in the first week of December or so, enough time to make the socks for Christmas. I had ordered other colors of the yarn, too, so when I got the box, I was disappointed to learn that the red yarn was back ordered until 12/15. No problem, even if I got it a day or two before Christmas, there was still time to make the socks before EB's return to Lubbock. So, I waited... and waited... and waited...
Until Dec. 26th, and still no red yarn. So, I wrote a very nice note to the company explaining that I had already paid for the yarn and would like either the yarn or a refund, preferably the yarn. While I was on their site, I hopped over and checked the status of the red yarn- was it in stock??? NO!!!! It is back ordered until 1/24/09!! Oh the horror, the agony, EB's cold tootsies...
So what do I do? I look around the net to find another source of the red yarn and order 2 skeins form 2 different companies- hedging my bets, so to speak. So what happens the next day??? I am informed by Company A that my order of 2 skeins of red yarn, that was supposed to be back ordered until late January '09, had been shipped. Now for the kicker- has any of this yarn arrived?? No, but it's been less than a week since I've ordered any of the yarn, so I come home from the mailbox just a little disappointed every day. What was that saying about a "watched pot" again??
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
What Are These People Thinking???
The big news around here is the news form New Jersey- a kid named (are you ready for this?) Adolph Hitler. His sister's name is Aryan Nation. What kind of people would give their children such heinous names? Yea, I know all about freedom of speech, so here's me taking advantage of it-
As a Jew, and therefore someone hated by these people, I am highly offended. It is tragic that someone idolizes such an evil man and his beliefs and feels they have to name their child in such a manner. How did they even get out of the hospital without someone noticing?? And what about school? They are just setting this kid up for tons of torment and then what? Another school shooting?
Anyway, it makes me appreciate the names of some of the kids I teach when I am substituting. I will never again bemoan the fact that some kid is named after the city he was conceived in, or some state or place or something just really goofy. And if my kiddos had been named for the places they were conceived, Midland (Texas) would be 13 and Doha (Qatar) would be 7!!
As a Jew, and therefore someone hated by these people, I am highly offended. It is tragic that someone idolizes such an evil man and his beliefs and feels they have to name their child in such a manner. How did they even get out of the hospital without someone noticing?? And what about school? They are just setting this kid up for tons of torment and then what? Another school shooting?
Anyway, it makes me appreciate the names of some of the kids I teach when I am substituting. I will never again bemoan the fact that some kid is named after the city he was conceived in, or some state or place or something just really goofy. And if my kiddos had been named for the places they were conceived, Midland (Texas) would be 13 and Doha (Qatar) would be 7!!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Quiet Weekend
I've been avoiding the stores and sittin' and knittin', and crocheting, too. I've made several hats for the extended family this year and a couple for my daughter and me. I knit the stripey scarf from Ravelry using Kureyon and it came out cute. And I did crochet a really cute poinsettia hat for a friend, but forgot to take pics of the darn thing before it left this house. As soon as I do a photoshoot with the others, I will post them.
Tomorrow, though, I am actually going to venture forth into the shopping jungle and get some last little things for family and friends. Kinda scary for me as I really hate shopping this time of year, but I made a promise to my daughter. The only one I am having problems shopping for is my teen. Anybody know what to get for a 13 yo surly teen????
Tomorrow, though, I am actually going to venture forth into the shopping jungle and get some last little things for family and friends. Kinda scary for me as I really hate shopping this time of year, but I made a promise to my daughter. The only one I am having problems shopping for is my teen. Anybody know what to get for a 13 yo surly teen????
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Black Friday 2008, pt. 2
Well, it happened. Someone finally got killed by shoppers on Black Friday. A young man who worked at a Long Island Wal-Mart was trampled to death by people trying to get into the store. The "customers" (read: savages) pushed so hard on the glass doors that they collapsed inward crushing the man and then these same "people" trampled the doors and the poor man underneath in their frenzy to get to the merchandise. In fact, several other employees were trampled trying to get to their injured colleague. Great way to start the holidays, huh??
Addendum (late afternoon): The young man who was killed in the shopping frenzy was not a small man by any means. According to the paper, he was 247 lbs, a gentle giant. The pressure from the exertion of over-eager shoppers on the door of the store caused them to shatter inwards. How does this kind of thing happen in our world???
Addendum (late afternoon): The young man who was killed in the shopping frenzy was not a small man by any means. According to the paper, he was 247 lbs, a gentle giant. The pressure from the exertion of over-eager shoppers on the door of the store caused them to shatter inwards. How does this kind of thing happen in our world???
Friday, November 28, 2008
Black Friday
Welcome to the official first day of the holiday shopping season. As you can see, I am sitting in front of my computer and blogging. Do I have plans to shop today??? Are you out of you flipping mind???
Today is the day that Americans colors really show through. It is a day of greed when people will push, shove, hit, kick, punch, bite and throw tantrums just to get a few drastically reduced items. Part of the blame lies with the stores themselves for only putting a few out to encourage this awful behavior. The other part of the blame belongs to us humans. We act like animals when we know that there will only be a few of those speciality items today, but come next week, the stores will be begging us to take them off their hands.
I do realize that the economy is in the toilet and that people are trying to save money, but here's a little tip- buy gift cards. This is what we are planning on doing because we figure that come January the stores will be trying to dump all that merchandise as fast as they can so they don't have to inventory it and the prices will be even lower than they are today. I'm going back to bed now.
Today is the day that Americans colors really show through. It is a day of greed when people will push, shove, hit, kick, punch, bite and throw tantrums just to get a few drastically reduced items. Part of the blame lies with the stores themselves for only putting a few out to encourage this awful behavior. The other part of the blame belongs to us humans. We act like animals when we know that there will only be a few of those speciality items today, but come next week, the stores will be begging us to take them off their hands.
I do realize that the economy is in the toilet and that people are trying to save money, but here's a little tip- buy gift cards. This is what we are planning on doing because we figure that come January the stores will be trying to dump all that merchandise as fast as they can so they don't have to inventory it and the prices will be even lower than they are today. I'm going back to bed now.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Countdown to Thanksgiving
And you thought I was going to say Christmas- huh??? A few more days before the family eats too much and then fights over the TV. So, instead of gloomy thoughts, I'd thought I'd share a holiday memory. To my dad, who passed away in 1979. I miss him terribly this time of year.
My dad was a fantastic cook and every year at Thanksgiving, he'd make a huge turkey and all the fixings- stuffing, mashed potatoes, spinach casserole, corn. The only thing he would "allow" my mother to do was to bake the pies. My mouth is watering just thinking about her apple pie. Anyway, every year, dad would get up before the crack of dawn and start cooking. My dad was a large man with a colorful vocabulary. We all knew to avoid him when he started cussing and Thanksgiving was one of those days you knew there would be cussing. But, I also knew that I was the only one who could go in the kitchen first thing in the morning. Dad would have mini bagels and grape juice waiting for me and I would eat them while he worked his magic. After I ate, my mom would would go into the kitchen to get breakfast for my sister and brother. She always got yelled at for disturbing dad. It wasn't until around 1:00 pm that dad would emerge and go and shower and change. By then, the turkey was in the oven and everything was simmering in various pots and pans, or was just waiting it's turn in the oven. The guest would arrive around 5ish and dinner would be served shortly after 6. Everyone always exclaimed over how moist and tender dad's turkey was, and they asked his secret. He always told him that he cussed at the bird and the more he cussed, the tenderer it was. Gotta love a man like that.
1979 was the first year mom made Thanksgiving for us. Dad hap carefully typed out all his recipes before he died. Mom's turkey that first year was extremely dry. We figured she hadn't cussed at the bird enough to tenderize it!!
My dad was a fantastic cook and every year at Thanksgiving, he'd make a huge turkey and all the fixings- stuffing, mashed potatoes, spinach casserole, corn. The only thing he would "allow" my mother to do was to bake the pies. My mouth is watering just thinking about her apple pie. Anyway, every year, dad would get up before the crack of dawn and start cooking. My dad was a large man with a colorful vocabulary. We all knew to avoid him when he started cussing and Thanksgiving was one of those days you knew there would be cussing. But, I also knew that I was the only one who could go in the kitchen first thing in the morning. Dad would have mini bagels and grape juice waiting for me and I would eat them while he worked his magic. After I ate, my mom would would go into the kitchen to get breakfast for my sister and brother. She always got yelled at for disturbing dad. It wasn't until around 1:00 pm that dad would emerge and go and shower and change. By then, the turkey was in the oven and everything was simmering in various pots and pans, or was just waiting it's turn in the oven. The guest would arrive around 5ish and dinner would be served shortly after 6. Everyone always exclaimed over how moist and tender dad's turkey was, and they asked his secret. He always told him that he cussed at the bird and the more he cussed, the tenderer it was. Gotta love a man like that.
1979 was the first year mom made Thanksgiving for us. Dad hap carefully typed out all his recipes before he died. Mom's turkey that first year was extremely dry. We figured she hadn't cussed at the bird enough to tenderize it!!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
A Little Ranting 2
So, last night was Halloween and I took DD around to the neighbors' houses and my friend took her to another block. After the annual sorting of the goodies where I claim all the KitKats and we dump all the yucky ones in our handout bowl, I notice a business card on the floor. Imagine my surprise when I picked the darn thing up and it turned out to be from a local church asking us to come worship with them!! Where so I begin with the ire???
First and foremost- this is supposed to be a fun holiday for kids, not one where you proselytize to my child. Yes, I do understand that it has pagan roots, but we are not out in the backyard lighting bonfires and having sex. Let my children collect their candy peacefully. If you have a problem with the holiday, then leave your lights OFF and pray for godless souls while we traverse the neighborhood collecting candy!!
Second- As for joining you for worship- no thanks. Any church or fellowship who markets themselves so shamelessly is not worth my time or effort. This also applies to all those mega-churches that advertise on TV, send out fliers in the mail and have the school send handouts home with my kiddo advertising "fall festivals." If this is how you are using your money and tithes, then you need to have your tax-exempt status revoked and your books audited. Shouldn't that money be going to keep the church running, and helping the less fortunate???
Third- You don't know my religious beliefs and they are none of your business. You don't know if I am happy with those beliefs, either. For the record- I and my family are Jewish, and we are extremely happy with our beliefs. I could not be part of any religion that so shamelessly promotes itself in the manner in which you have.
Fourth- as for all those churches running "Houses of Horror"- leave it to the professionals like "ScreamWorld." Yours are thinly veiled proselytizing tactics. That whole abortion scene you show at the end with blood every where and the maniacal "doctor" is so untrue, now. Rest assured, though, that your vision will come true if abortion is made illegal.
Basically- I am an adult and know what is best for my child. Let them enjoy this particular holiday as a candy-filled frolic in costume. Save your proselytizing for Christmas. I would say Thanksgiving, but the Pilgrims "borrowed" our harvest holiday of Sukkot for their first Thanksgiving.
First and foremost- this is supposed to be a fun holiday for kids, not one where you proselytize to my child. Yes, I do understand that it has pagan roots, but we are not out in the backyard lighting bonfires and having sex. Let my children collect their candy peacefully. If you have a problem with the holiday, then leave your lights OFF and pray for godless souls while we traverse the neighborhood collecting candy!!
Second- As for joining you for worship- no thanks. Any church or fellowship who markets themselves so shamelessly is not worth my time or effort. This also applies to all those mega-churches that advertise on TV, send out fliers in the mail and have the school send handouts home with my kiddo advertising "fall festivals." If this is how you are using your money and tithes, then you need to have your tax-exempt status revoked and your books audited. Shouldn't that money be going to keep the church running, and helping the less fortunate???
Third- You don't know my religious beliefs and they are none of your business. You don't know if I am happy with those beliefs, either. For the record- I and my family are Jewish, and we are extremely happy with our beliefs. I could not be part of any religion that so shamelessly promotes itself in the manner in which you have.
Fourth- as for all those churches running "Houses of Horror"- leave it to the professionals like "ScreamWorld." Yours are thinly veiled proselytizing tactics. That whole abortion scene you show at the end with blood every where and the maniacal "doctor" is so untrue, now. Rest assured, though, that your vision will come true if abortion is made illegal.
Basically- I am an adult and know what is best for my child. Let them enjoy this particular holiday as a candy-filled frolic in costume. Save your proselytizing for Christmas. I would say Thanksgiving, but the Pilgrims "borrowed" our harvest holiday of Sukkot for their first Thanksgiving.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Boo!
One more day until Halloween and my sis's 40th birthday. And if you're reading this, dear sister, I know I am still older than you!
Quick update on me- I had minor elective surgery on Monday and things are progressing well. I had my endometrium burned off. No plans for anymore kids and after 30 years of the monthly mess, I am ready for a break. I would love to have a vacation where Mother Nature didn't tag along. No matter how many times we planned the perfect get-away, I always seemed to be up in the room, cramping and moaning. Hopefully, this took care of everything and I can start enjoying my vacations with my family more.
Not much else to report except that the surgery put my holiday decorating on hold. Hubby is going to be out of town when it's time to take it down, so, once again, I got lazy this year. Oh, well... next year, hopefully, I'll give the neighbors something to talk about besides my awesome pumpkins.
Quick update on me- I had minor elective surgery on Monday and things are progressing well. I had my endometrium burned off. No plans for anymore kids and after 30 years of the monthly mess, I am ready for a break. I would love to have a vacation where Mother Nature didn't tag along. No matter how many times we planned the perfect get-away, I always seemed to be up in the room, cramping and moaning. Hopefully, this took care of everything and I can start enjoying my vacations with my family more.
Not much else to report except that the surgery put my holiday decorating on hold. Hubby is going to be out of town when it's time to take it down, so, once again, I got lazy this year. Oh, well... next year, hopefully, I'll give the neighbors something to talk about besides my awesome pumpkins.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Insanity Prevails
Well, I reactivated as a sub for our local school district. This falls into the category of "what are you thinking???" I'm thinking I need a little extra money for the holidays, especially in this economy. We'll see how it goes. Hubby says if it doesn't work out, I can always quit- again.
I haven't done as much, yet, for Halloween as I had hoped. Life just keeps happening around here. My mom came down and we went to the Neil Diamond concert earlier this week. We had a great time, too. My 78 yo mom is still one "Red Hot Mama!" During "Forever in Bluejeans," a man was walking by and mom stopped him and told him he couldn't leave during that song. So what does he do? He dances with mom and then at the end of the song gives her a huge kiss!! Way to go, Mom!! Hope I am as hot as you when I'm 78!!
As for the concert itself- it was fantastic. Neil Diamond certainly has a generous heart. He donated all the proceeds from merchandise sales at that concert to the Hurricane Ike Relief Fund. He also promised to make a matching donation. I feel less guilty about the money I spent, too. And here I was, gearing up for a rant about how the celebs haven't done a thing for Galveston, and Mr. Diamond goes and does this. Guess I'll save my rant for something else.
I haven't done as much, yet, for Halloween as I had hoped. Life just keeps happening around here. My mom came down and we went to the Neil Diamond concert earlier this week. We had a great time, too. My 78 yo mom is still one "Red Hot Mama!" During "Forever in Bluejeans," a man was walking by and mom stopped him and told him he couldn't leave during that song. So what does he do? He dances with mom and then at the end of the song gives her a huge kiss!! Way to go, Mom!! Hope I am as hot as you when I'm 78!!
As for the concert itself- it was fantastic. Neil Diamond certainly has a generous heart. He donated all the proceeds from merchandise sales at that concert to the Hurricane Ike Relief Fund. He also promised to make a matching donation. I feel less guilty about the money I spent, too. And here I was, gearing up for a rant about how the celebs haven't done a thing for Galveston, and Mr. Diamond goes and does this. Guess I'll save my rant for something else.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Halloween Musings...
...the war is on. A new neighbor moved in around the end of August. You have to understand- when it comes to Hallowen, I will NOT be outdone. She can have Christmas as I don't celebrate it being Jewish and all. But, leave Halloween for me. Honestly, my sis was born on the day, I'm a Friday the 13th baby (I was born on that day!) and my mom was born on the Ides of March (03/15, the day Casear was killed). Creepiness comes naturally.
My husband comes in Saturday morning after making a run to drop off some donations and tells me I am being outdone. Didn't anyone tell these people that I am the Queen of Halloween around here? I am the house that makes everyone else jealous. I will admit that last year I was in a slump- torn hamstring and all- but I am up and running this year. Man the torpedos, kids, mom's declared "War!" Just don't tell dad or he'll take my credit card away.
My husband comes in Saturday morning after making a run to drop off some donations and tells me I am being outdone. Didn't anyone tell these people that I am the Queen of Halloween around here? I am the house that makes everyone else jealous. I will admit that last year I was in a slump- torn hamstring and all- but I am up and running this year. Man the torpedos, kids, mom's declared "War!" Just don't tell dad or he'll take my credit card away.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Survival and Other Things
...Such as what to do when gale force winds are howling outside. I crocheted through Hurricane Ike. The baby blanket is just a simple granny square and is small enough for a baby carrier that it won't flop over the edges and drag on the ground. I also madde baby crocs, an amigurami lemon and jellyfish and eyeballs. The jellyfish and eyes are for Halloween.
We were the lucky ones as far as Ike was concerned. Our power was out less than 12 hours and there was no damage to the house. All we had were a few small branches in the backyard which I made the kiddos clean up a few days after Ike blew through. They were out of school for 7 school days and finally went back on Sept. 23rd. It was like the first day of school all over again- an uniterrupted shower, a quiet nap, and no arguing over what we were having for lunch.
So now we are gearing up for our favorite holiday- Halloween. I found some great patterns over on etsy.com and have been crocheting like crazy. That's were I got the patterns for the stuff posted in the pics. I think the crocs are going to be a big hit with the person I made them for. I'll let you know.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Let's Hear It for Ike
Yup, ol' Ike is barreling down on Houston. He's about 20 miles off the coast of Galveston. We are starting to get the tropical winds around here, but no rain, yet. I am "hunkered down" with the kids and the pets. Our poor puppy can't go outside so is using the dining room as his personal toilet. Can I claim it as storm damage and have my carpet replaced???
DH is stuck in LA. Yup, he's out in sunny California, in a nice hotel with room service and a maid and I am stuck here making the kids help out around the house. I even threatened surly teen with bathroom duty if he complained.
And speaking of surly teen- he got his hair chopped off. He screwed up soooooo bad in school last week, that I had to punish him. And since Dad was in Australia, he wasn't here to "protect" Ben from the wrath of mom. Let's just say I was mortified beyond words and the next step is military academy.
And in other news, menopause has officially hit, hence the severe punishment. Buckle up folks, it's gonna be a bumpy ride!
DH is stuck in LA. Yup, he's out in sunny California, in a nice hotel with room service and a maid and I am stuck here making the kids help out around the house. I even threatened surly teen with bathroom duty if he complained.
And speaking of surly teen- he got his hair chopped off. He screwed up soooooo bad in school last week, that I had to punish him. And since Dad was in Australia, he wasn't here to "protect" Ben from the wrath of mom. Let's just say I was mortified beyond words and the next step is military academy.
And in other news, menopause has officially hit, hence the severe punishment. Buckle up folks, it's gonna be a bumpy ride!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Gustav is Coming
Batten down the hatches, Gustav may- or may not- be heading this way. Hurricane season in Houston, gotta love it. Since Katrina and Rita three years ago, every time a hurricane heads into the Gulf of Mexico, people panic. So far, it's like the little boy who cried "Wolf!" One of these days, the real thing is going to happen, and no one is going to believe it, and we'll all be blown away. So, tonight, in preparation, I am going to pack bags for the kids and me, sort out some crafts to take, and then sleep through all the doom and gloom the forecasters are predicting.
As for knitting, ain't none of that going on right now. I've been busy crocheting and sewing. And, I taught a beading class today. Life's kinda dull right now.
As for knitting, ain't none of that going on right now. I've been busy crocheting and sewing. And, I taught a beading class today. Life's kinda dull right now.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
In Which G-d Says "Ha!"
Yesterday was totally planned- massage, Volunteer, lunch with a friend. Apparently, some cosmic force decided that I did not really need my massage, but a flat tire instead. Yup, had to skip the massage to get my tire fixed. Thankfully, it was still under warranty and all I had to pay for was labor. Somebody up there is getting their jollies over this. I did manage to make it to my volunteering stint and lunch with my friend. Lunch was a 2 margarita affair, so I felt better. "The best laid plans of mice and men..."
I finally scored some glow-in-the-dark yarn, too. I have been jonesing for this since I heard about it. I bought 3 skeins of each color, and need to decide what I am going to do with it. I know I am going to crochet a skull and crossbones for a doggy sweater for Sparticus for Halloween. The purple and pink will be made into something for my DD. The rest is mine. I'll find something to do with it.
As for today, barring any unforeseen problems, I plan to do some more volunteering at a local HS.
I finally scored some glow-in-the-dark yarn, too. I have been jonesing for this since I heard about it. I bought 3 skeins of each color, and need to decide what I am going to do with it. I know I am going to crochet a skull and crossbones for a doggy sweater for Sparticus for Halloween. The purple and pink will be made into something for my DD. The rest is mine. I'll find something to do with it.
As for today, barring any unforeseen problems, I plan to do some more volunteering at a local HS.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Sound of Silence
Yup, the kiddos started school today. Here's what I did to celebrate:
1. Took a long, hot, uninterrupted shower.
2. Volunteered at the school and helped the Kindergartners get through the lunch line.
3. Tried, but failed, to secure any skein of glow-in-the-dark yarn.
4. Got the wrong size ribbon for a pair of booties I made.
5. Picked up a few quilting magazines and a new book.
6. Had a margarita at lunch, and no, this was not the cause of the wrong ribbon.
7. Tried to nap but got interrupted by my DH calling to see if I was OK (Yes, dear, just sleeping off a margarita).
8. Crocheted 2 Koala heads for an afghan for a friend's baby- due in Nov., so I have time. 6 more heads to go.
9. Let the dog out.
10. Let the dog in.
11. Let the dog out.
12. Let the dog in.
Repeated 11 & 12 several more times. He was looking for the kiddos.
13. Waited at the bus stop for DD to get home. Was there an hour in the sweltering TX heat.
14. And since it was the first day of school, DH took us all out for dinner. It's a family tradition.
And what do I have for tomorrow?
1. A 1 1/2 hour massage.
2. Repeat #2 above.
3. Lunch with a friend- without kids.
1. Took a long, hot, uninterrupted shower.
2. Volunteered at the school and helped the Kindergartners get through the lunch line.
3. Tried, but failed, to secure any skein of glow-in-the-dark yarn.
4. Got the wrong size ribbon for a pair of booties I made.
5. Picked up a few quilting magazines and a new book.
6. Had a margarita at lunch, and no, this was not the cause of the wrong ribbon.
7. Tried to nap but got interrupted by my DH calling to see if I was OK (Yes, dear, just sleeping off a margarita).
8. Crocheted 2 Koala heads for an afghan for a friend's baby- due in Nov., so I have time. 6 more heads to go.
9. Let the dog out.
10. Let the dog in.
11. Let the dog out.
12. Let the dog in.
Repeated 11 & 12 several more times. He was looking for the kiddos.
13. Waited at the bus stop for DD to get home. Was there an hour in the sweltering TX heat.
14. And since it was the first day of school, DH took us all out for dinner. It's a family tradition.
And what do I have for tomorrow?
1. A 1 1/2 hour massage.
2. Repeat #2 above.
3. Lunch with a friend- without kids.
Friday, August 15, 2008
10 More Days
But who's counting?? Today started the official back-to-school frenzy in our house. DS and I went up to his Middle School and jumped through administrative hoops. We got his schedule, locker number and combo, PE clothes that I will rarely see and have to wear a hazmat suit to wash, books, supplies and everything else. School supplies from the school- $35. Keeping my sanity by not having to hunt down a yellow spiral- priceless. Last year, I could not find a yellow spiral to save my life. And, all the local office supply and discount stores had the lists from the neighboring schools, but did they have all the supplies on the list? (If you answered "No," you were right, and you've been school shopping)
So, DS and I got there early, and what do I do while we are waiting in the hall until the "official" start time? Crocheting. Yeah, Yeah, it says knit up there, but I am bicraftual. I've been crocheting longer than I have been knitting. I have set a semi-Herculean task for my self. I want to make 12 crocheted teacups with saucers and 12 furry boas for DD's upcoming birthday. Why? I have to regain my title as best party mom. It was taken away from me by DD's best friend's mom. She had costumes that the kids got to keep (not handmade, mind you). So, I am hoping to top that. I plan to fill the teacups with chocolate kisses or something sweet, too. Still planning this darn thing. But I think the girls will like the teacups. I've made knitted candies for DD before, and she loves them. She has an American Girl Doll that she has tea partied with and uses the candies. But DD appreciates my handmade stuff.
Anyway... 10 more days 'til school starts, 10 more days 'til school starts!! I've already got my first week planned and it includes a massage- bliss- and lots of naps, and maybe some alcohol.
There is a margarita calling my name
So, DS and I got there early, and what do I do while we are waiting in the hall until the "official" start time? Crocheting. Yeah, Yeah, it says knit up there, but I am bicraftual. I've been crocheting longer than I have been knitting. I have set a semi-Herculean task for my self. I want to make 12 crocheted teacups with saucers and 12 furry boas for DD's upcoming birthday. Why? I have to regain my title as best party mom. It was taken away from me by DD's best friend's mom. She had costumes that the kids got to keep (not handmade, mind you). So, I am hoping to top that. I plan to fill the teacups with chocolate kisses or something sweet, too. Still planning this darn thing. But I think the girls will like the teacups. I've made knitted candies for DD before, and she loves them. She has an American Girl Doll that she has tea partied with and uses the candies. But DD appreciates my handmade stuff.
Anyway... 10 more days 'til school starts, 10 more days 'til school starts!! I've already got my first week planned and it includes a massage- bliss- and lots of naps, and maybe some alcohol.
There is a margarita calling my name
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Look...An Avatar
Wow, I've gone semi-high-tech. I made an avatar. And, I'm knitting in the darn thing. Can you believe it?? And the pirate ship- my homage to my favorite movie, "Pirates of the Carribean." Gotta love Johnny Depp in pirate gear, swaggering around and acting goofy.
12 days to go until school starts. I had to threaten the kids with a yarn crawl. Basically it's a yarn shop tour and there are several yarn shops in Houston. It would have been a looooong day for them. As for knitting- I have a severe case of knitting ADD. I keep starting projects, and then finding another and another and another and starting those, too. So, no progress of any kind, and several projects languishing on the needles. I am glad I didn't sign up for any Olympic knitting!!
12 days to go until school starts. I had to threaten the kids with a yarn crawl. Basically it's a yarn shop tour and there are several yarn shops in Houston. It would have been a looooong day for them. As for knitting- I have a severe case of knitting ADD. I keep starting projects, and then finding another and another and another and starting those, too. So, no progress of any kind, and several projects languishing on the needles. I am glad I didn't sign up for any Olympic knitting!!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Eduard, not Eduardo
Ooops, got the name wrong of the latest Tropical storm. I was close, though. He passed us with a whimper. We've had some rain, which we needed, but the house is still intact and we don't need a new roof.
I did finish our babysitter's socks though while it rained. I don't think I'll be knitting anything black or red for awhile, though. Maybe I should move to pink to break the monotony.
took the kiddos to the dentist today. DS, who rarely brushes his teeth unless one of us parental units is screaming at him, had no cavities. DD, who brushes every am and pm, had 4. Sigh... she's learning early that life is not fair. We go back tomorrow for the fillings and such. For any other person, this would be a wasted morning, but I've got knitting to do, so I'll be fine. And so will DD.
I did finish our babysitter's socks though while it rained. I don't think I'll be knitting anything black or red for awhile, though. Maybe I should move to pink to break the monotony.
took the kiddos to the dentist today. DS, who rarely brushes his teeth unless one of us parental units is screaming at him, had no cavities. DD, who brushes every am and pm, had 4. Sigh... she's learning early that life is not fair. We go back tomorrow for the fillings and such. For any other person, this would be a wasted morning, but I've got knitting to do, so I'll be fine. And so will DD.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Hurricane Eduardo...
or is he still a tropical storm?? The good people of Houston are in a panic over him. My neighbor told me that people were buying gas by the large plastic container, and DH said several gas stations he passed on the way home were out of gas. Good thing I filled up on Friday. My little Prius is gassed and ready to head to Waco, if need be. 4 gallons for the trip is all it takes. And my mom will have a bed or three waiting for us. But what kind of knitting does one take if one decides to flee impending doom???
OK, I really don't scare easily. We waited out Rita, and she turned east. But I did have a plan. If I got up Friday morning and they were still predicting Houston to be hit by Rita, the kids and I would head to mom's. I wasn't about to get on the highway any earlier because they were parking lots, and it was hot. Same thing now. And Eddy may decide to calm down and remain a tropical storm. Lots of rain and nothing else.
So, what does one bring if one decides to flee? The dorm sock for the babysitter (one's already made). A pair of mittens and a hat for her, too. And, a bag of kitchen cotton to make 12 crocheted teacups for DD's birthday tea party in September. And then there's the booby sock on the needles... I've got tons of UFO's that I can throw in the car, but I have to remember to leave room for the kids' luggage this time!!!
OK, I really don't scare easily. We waited out Rita, and she turned east. But I did have a plan. If I got up Friday morning and they were still predicting Houston to be hit by Rita, the kids and I would head to mom's. I wasn't about to get on the highway any earlier because they were parking lots, and it was hot. Same thing now. And Eddy may decide to calm down and remain a tropical storm. Lots of rain and nothing else.
So, what does one bring if one decides to flee? The dorm sock for the babysitter (one's already made). A pair of mittens and a hat for her, too. And, a bag of kitchen cotton to make 12 crocheted teacups for DD's birthday tea party in September. And then there's the booby sock on the needles... I've got tons of UFO's that I can throw in the car, but I have to remember to leave room for the kids' luggage this time!!!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
I'm Melting, Melting...
We reached 100 F today, according to my car thermometer. And with the humidity, it's much higher. I feel like I'm melting every time I go out. I just want to lay on the cool tile floor and not move, but the puppy keeps jumping on me.
It's too hot to even think about knitting right now. Every project is stalled. It's taunting me from the living room table with it's yarny warmth. "Come on, knit me. You know you want to, even though it's a bazillion degrees out you want to feel the warmth of my wool running through your fingers and sitting in your lap..." And then it laughs maniacally.
The kids are as sluggish as I am, too. It's pathetic, really. Thankfully my kids are not normally couch potatoes, and neither one of them is overweight by any means, so I let them sit and do nothing.
OK, I'm working up a sweat and need to go take a shower. Keep cool...
It's too hot to even think about knitting right now. Every project is stalled. It's taunting me from the living room table with it's yarny warmth. "Come on, knit me. You know you want to, even though it's a bazillion degrees out you want to feel the warmth of my wool running through your fingers and sitting in your lap..." And then it laughs maniacally.
The kids are as sluggish as I am, too. It's pathetic, really. Thankfully my kids are not normally couch potatoes, and neither one of them is overweight by any means, so I let them sit and do nothing.
OK, I'm working up a sweat and need to go take a shower. Keep cool...
Saturday, July 12, 2008
A Little Admiration
There is a blog out in the blogosphere that is promoting turning off your air conditioner for the summer, or at least not turning the temp below 78 F. I've gotta admire all the people who can do this, but I am not one of them and here's why:
1. We live in Houston. It's already over 100 F and with an extremely high humidity.
2. I am peri-menopausal and prone to hot flashes.
3. Did I mention we live in hot, humid Houston???
But, both my husband and I drive hybrids- a Prius for me and a Saturn for him. We love our cars and thumbing our noses at all the H2 and H3 drivers here in Houston. But I cannot live without my AC. Now, if we ever move north to colder climates, I promise to try and be a greener person.
Did I mention we live in hot, humid Houston??
1. We live in Houston. It's already over 100 F and with an extremely high humidity.
2. I am peri-menopausal and prone to hot flashes.
3. Did I mention we live in hot, humid Houston???
But, both my husband and I drive hybrids- a Prius for me and a Saturn for him. We love our cars and thumbing our noses at all the H2 and H3 drivers here in Houston. But I cannot live without my AC. Now, if we ever move north to colder climates, I promise to try and be a greener person.
Did I mention we live in hot, humid Houston??
Friday, July 11, 2008
All's Quiet, Sorta
My DS is visiting the grands in Illinois right now, and DD is taking a bath. The cat has disappeared and the dog is resting after his "circumcision." Yup, Sparticus had THE surgery and is no longer humping everything and everyone. It's quite nice, actually, because I don't have to explain to DD what the dog is doing to her toys that she has left lying around. Note to daughter: Pick up your toys so the dog doesn't chew on them!!
My knitting mojo has flown the coop. The knitting group I belonged to has had some petty in-fighting and I resigned in disgust. It was so bad that there were calls for audits of the books and people actually read the by-laws. Hmmm, guys, it's a knitting group. It's about the knitting not the petty jealousise and hang-ups of others. If I wanted to be involved in this much dissent, I'd actually attend PTA meetings.
So, what have I been doing? I have been recreating the Kit Kitteredge hat from the new American Girl (AG) movie for my DD. I had already made a rolled brim hat from Lily's Sugar and Cream's latest book, "More Girl Talk." I used the same pattern for the hat portion using Lion Brand's Cotton-Ease in Almond. All I have to do is crochet the hat band. For that I am using LB's C-E Lime. If you look closely at the movie pics or have been to the movie (Yup, DD and her AGD have been), the hat in the movie has a crocheted band. The hat at the AGD store- a ribbon. I also bought some flowery material to make her a dress similar to Kit's, with plans to make one for her AGD, too.
And as for the movie, if you are a crafty person, check out all those fab knitted and crocheted poeces in the Kit Kitteredge movie. To die for... I want to crochet that housecoat Mrs. K wears in a few scenes. And Kit has a beautiful lacy sweater that I would love to recreate for my DD. Guess I better get my knitting mojo back soon!!
My knitting mojo has flown the coop. The knitting group I belonged to has had some petty in-fighting and I resigned in disgust. It was so bad that there were calls for audits of the books and people actually read the by-laws. Hmmm, guys, it's a knitting group. It's about the knitting not the petty jealousise and hang-ups of others. If I wanted to be involved in this much dissent, I'd actually attend PTA meetings.
So, what have I been doing? I have been recreating the Kit Kitteredge hat from the new American Girl (AG) movie for my DD. I had already made a rolled brim hat from Lily's Sugar and Cream's latest book, "More Girl Talk." I used the same pattern for the hat portion using Lion Brand's Cotton-Ease in Almond. All I have to do is crochet the hat band. For that I am using LB's C-E Lime. If you look closely at the movie pics or have been to the movie (Yup, DD and her AGD have been), the hat in the movie has a crocheted band. The hat at the AGD store- a ribbon. I also bought some flowery material to make her a dress similar to Kit's, with plans to make one for her AGD, too.
And as for the movie, if you are a crafty person, check out all those fab knitted and crocheted poeces in the Kit Kitteredge movie. To die for... I want to crochet that housecoat Mrs. K wears in a few scenes. And Kit has a beautiful lacy sweater that I would love to recreate for my DD. Guess I better get my knitting mojo back soon!!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
New Family Member
A lot has happened since my last post. I officially became the mom of a teenager. My DS is now 13 and is showing all the signs of puberty and the teenage years. But, he is trying to show some maturity. He has offered to babysit his 6 year old sister- if we pay him! He would do a much better job of babysitting if his sister didn't tell him "You're not the boss of me!" Um, Baby Girl, yes he is when he's babysitting you.
My birthday came and went, too. Yup, I'm 42 now and loving it. I hear about all these moms who are having babies at this age, and I want to ask "WHY??!!!???" Are they nuts? My kids are (almost) self-sufficient and can entertain themselves. They are fully potty-trained and sleep through the night for the most part. Do I really want to do it all over again?? Nooooooo!
But, that being said, my big announcement- we have a new puppy. He is a Chihuahua- Shih Tzu mix. He weighs about 2.9 lbs, and tries to take on the much larger (12 lb) cat. His name is Sparticus. Big name, little-bitty dog. And spoiled. More spoiled than some of those celeb dogs. I don't think Paris Hilton knit a sweater for Tinkerbell. Sparticus has 2, hand-knit by me. He has toys all over the house and I even crocheted the pup an afghan for his kennel. And the really nice thing- the kids have poop patrol. It's their dog, they have to clean up after him if has an accident in the house. They are responsible for feeding and other things.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
A Little Ranting
I missed my annual holiday rant- too drugged from the ol' hamstring episode- and I really didn't have much to rant about. I do now, so hang on...
I have a very sweet 6 yo daughter (DD). She is your typical kiddo- loves all things girly, is into Hannah Montana, and her room is decorated with butterflies. She still has the toddler pudge- a tummy- but she is no way obese. She has absolutely no curves, either. Where do the clothing manufacturers get off making tight fitting clothing for theses girls??? My mom bought her a shirt this weekend. I was with her and knew from experience that a size 7/8 would be tight around the tummy, so I've been buying size 9/10's to give her a looser fit. The shirt was made for someone with curves!! I kid you not- it curved in at her waist and she hated it. It's a beautiful shirt, but totally unwearable.
Listen up, clothing manufacturers- my child is 6 years old and I am not going to dress her as a skank, prostitute or a Britney Spears' wannabe. My daughter is not out to attract a boy. She is supposed to play and laugh and have fun. Boys should have cooties right now and I want that to last until she is 21!! I want cute, frilly, MODEST dresses. It doesn't have to be longed sleeved, high-necked, old-fashioned. It can be modern looking, but not scream "SLUT!" Most girls her age look like boards, anyway. None of them have curves- at least not the ones in her class or in our neighborhood. I am not a prude by any means, but kids should be kids, not mini-adults.
Lastly, dear clothing manufacturers, I have a sewing machine and I am using it to make her clothes. I am not going to buy any more pre-made clothes until you start making something less skanky looking. Honestly, my DD doesn't need to highlight her assets. SHE DOESN'T HAVE ANY "ASSETS!" Her only assets are her bubbly personality and her innocence. Can you please lay off those for awhile??
I have a very sweet 6 yo daughter (DD). She is your typical kiddo- loves all things girly, is into Hannah Montana, and her room is decorated with butterflies. She still has the toddler pudge- a tummy- but she is no way obese. She has absolutely no curves, either. Where do the clothing manufacturers get off making tight fitting clothing for theses girls??? My mom bought her a shirt this weekend. I was with her and knew from experience that a size 7/8 would be tight around the tummy, so I've been buying size 9/10's to give her a looser fit. The shirt was made for someone with curves!! I kid you not- it curved in at her waist and she hated it. It's a beautiful shirt, but totally unwearable.
Listen up, clothing manufacturers- my child is 6 years old and I am not going to dress her as a skank, prostitute or a Britney Spears' wannabe. My daughter is not out to attract a boy. She is supposed to play and laugh and have fun. Boys should have cooties right now and I want that to last until she is 21!! I want cute, frilly, MODEST dresses. It doesn't have to be longed sleeved, high-necked, old-fashioned. It can be modern looking, but not scream "SLUT!" Most girls her age look like boards, anyway. None of them have curves- at least not the ones in her class or in our neighborhood. I am not a prude by any means, but kids should be kids, not mini-adults.
Lastly, dear clothing manufacturers, I have a sewing machine and I am using it to make her clothes. I am not going to buy any more pre-made clothes until you start making something less skanky looking. Honestly, my DD doesn't need to highlight her assets. SHE DOESN'T HAVE ANY "ASSETS!" Her only assets are her bubbly personality and her innocence. Can you please lay off those for awhile??
Monday, April 7, 2008
Ah... April in Texas
And the ragweed and pollen counts are as high as an elephant's eye. Both kids are suffering and I'm just trying to get them to wash their hands after they blow their noses. I would say something about sleeves, but it's 88 F here and they are wearing short sleeves.
On to knitting- DD got a pink bunny from Build-A-Bear and I made the cutest sweater for it. It's the sherbet colorway from RH Kid's Yarn. I like how it turned out so much that I may make a matching sweater for DD.
Since it is getting so hot out, I'm scaling back to small projects- socks to be exact. I've got tons of sock yarn and lots of great patterns. It's time I'm lacking. A few more hours in the day would be helpful. But, I still wouldn't get everything done.
And, I did survive the Hannah Montana concert. The earplugs helped. Billy Ray Cyrus came out between HM's and Miley's sets and sang 2 songs. Yep, he sang that classic "Achy-Breaky Heart." I didn't like it then, I still don't like it now. I do, however, like the duet he sings with Miley- "Ready, Set, Don't Go." Makes me cry every time. Shoulda brought tissues, too.
On to knitting- DD got a pink bunny from Build-A-Bear and I made the cutest sweater for it. It's the sherbet colorway from RH Kid's Yarn. I like how it turned out so much that I may make a matching sweater for DD.
Since it is getting so hot out, I'm scaling back to small projects- socks to be exact. I've got tons of sock yarn and lots of great patterns. It's time I'm lacking. A few more hours in the day would be helpful. But, I still wouldn't get everything done.
And, I did survive the Hannah Montana concert. The earplugs helped. Billy Ray Cyrus came out between HM's and Miley's sets and sang 2 songs. Yep, he sang that classic "Achy-Breaky Heart." I didn't like it then, I still don't like it now. I do, however, like the duet he sings with Miley- "Ready, Set, Don't Go." Makes me cry every time. Shoulda brought tissues, too.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Score!!!
Well, the fates have decreed that my darling daughter should go see Hannah Montana on Sunday at the Houston Rodeo. Yup, I scored tickets at their original price and not the outrageous sum demanded by greedy scalpers. Hubby is happy he didn't have to shell out big bucks, DS is happy I could only get 2, and you can understand DD's excitement. As for me, I am going to splurge on a pair of earplugs between now and Sunday.
As for the scalpers- I know we live in a free market society and such, but I think if the performers realized how much profit they were being cheated out of, there would be more outrage, and stricter laws. Say the seats to the concert go for $100 and in the contract, the performer gets 10% of each seats' sale- $10. For every 100 seats, they get $1,000. So, the scalper goes in and buys 100 tickets. Because the performer is very popular, the scalper can sell the tickets for $1,000 apiece. His profit for every seat is $900. $900 x 100 seats= $90,000. The performer still only gets $1,000- $89,000 less than what the scalper gets. The scalper points and clicks. The performer has to get up there in front of the crowds and do all the work. It's easy to say "So what, they're rich." But is it truly fair to the performer who has worked so hard to get the point where everyone wants to see them perform?? Discuss....
As for the scalpers- I know we live in a free market society and such, but I think if the performers realized how much profit they were being cheated out of, there would be more outrage, and stricter laws. Say the seats to the concert go for $100 and in the contract, the performer gets 10% of each seats' sale- $10. For every 100 seats, they get $1,000. So, the scalper goes in and buys 100 tickets. Because the performer is very popular, the scalper can sell the tickets for $1,000 apiece. His profit for every seat is $900. $900 x 100 seats= $90,000. The performer still only gets $1,000- $89,000 less than what the scalper gets. The scalper points and clicks. The performer has to get up there in front of the crowds and do all the work. It's easy to say "So what, they're rich." But is it truly fair to the performer who has worked so hard to get the point where everyone wants to see them perform?? Discuss....
Monday, March 3, 2008
It's been awhile
Well, folks, life just seems to be getting better and better- if only you could hear the sarcasm in my voice. Remember that whole hamstring incident back in October? We are still having fallout over that. It seems some moron over at the local hospital skimmed my driver's license and went on a shopping spree in Santa Rosa, California. They spent over $1,200 at Victoria's Secret alone. Just how many pairs of panties is that anyway???? We are trying to get it all cleaned up- lawyers, police, credit bureaus, FTC (useless, by the way, they only collect the info for data purposes!).
Then, two weeks ago, one of my aunts passed away. She wasn't my favorite aunt. I haven't seen her in years. She was, though, my mom's younger sister. That fact hit a nerve. And I am beginning to believe that my mom's whole family is completely insane. Uncle #1 made her sign over everything to him just for the $$$$. Uncle #2 hung up when his ex called to tell him that his sis had died. Nobody knows how to contact the twin aunts. And aunt #3 drove my mom so completely batty, that mom payed the extra money to fly home early. Hubby got a good laugh until he realized my mom is the only sane one in the bunch, and then started to worry about me and the kids. I had to remind him that I wasn't swimming in that particular gene pool because I'm adopted.
Knitting like crazy. I've been knitting chunky weight socks. I found 2 patterns for them, and combined what I thought was the best of both- length of the leg, heel, heel turn, etc. They knit up quickly and are very cozy, especially on the tile floor.
Not much else going on in my little part of the world. Gonna go knit some more now.
Then, two weeks ago, one of my aunts passed away. She wasn't my favorite aunt. I haven't seen her in years. She was, though, my mom's younger sister. That fact hit a nerve. And I am beginning to believe that my mom's whole family is completely insane. Uncle #1 made her sign over everything to him just for the $$$$. Uncle #2 hung up when his ex called to tell him that his sis had died. Nobody knows how to contact the twin aunts. And aunt #3 drove my mom so completely batty, that mom payed the extra money to fly home early. Hubby got a good laugh until he realized my mom is the only sane one in the bunch, and then started to worry about me and the kids. I had to remind him that I wasn't swimming in that particular gene pool because I'm adopted.
Knitting like crazy. I've been knitting chunky weight socks. I found 2 patterns for them, and combined what I thought was the best of both- length of the leg, heel, heel turn, etc. They knit up quickly and are very cozy, especially on the tile floor.
Not much else going on in my little part of the world. Gonna go knit some more now.
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