Krazi Knitter's Place

What Was I Thinking?

2008-05-31T10:10:00.003-05:00

LOL- I just joined the 52 Pair Plunge II! What was I thinking???? A pair of socks a week- well, I can at least make some anklets or footies during the hectic weeks. Or manybe use WW yarns for some winter house socks. On top of that- I will have to purchase more sock yarn to complete 52 pairs! Like that is a bad thing-LMBO Has anone else joined in on the 52 Pair Plunge II?

On the home front, trying to play catch-up on our house payment isn't as easy as we thought. We got behind when Jeff's Grandmother passed last year and have been playing catch-up ever since. It is getting harder as the price of everything is going up but we WILL do it. We are so lucky that Jeff is in a line of work where he can make extra money now and again. He is at our local skate-rink today replacing two compressers this morning.

Summer will be turning 14 a week from today! How did 14 years go by so fast????? Before I know it, she will be grown & gone! When she so go from the "attached to Mommy's hip" child to "Mom, I KNOW what to do" phase?????? Then, in 5 weeks Kirstey will be 16! 16 ! She just reminded me that she can go on car dates with boys once she is 16 (I should have made it 18)! She is also driving now- another thing that makes me scared to death for her & makes me realize how old I am actually getting! LOL

I have to entertain AGAIN tomorrow! MIL, BIL and future SIL coming after church for Dinner. I am trying to figure out what I am going to cook to feed 7 people on our budget! The first weekend they came over Jeff cooked wings on the grill and my BIL did nothing but complain! I told Jeff that we should just buy 4 of the $5 subs from subway- total $20. It is a lot cheaper that trying to cook a 4 course meal for everyone!

I love my MIL but also, I am glad she is going back to Phonix on the 3rd. This feeding everyone every week is getting really expensive! My BIL and future SIL should have US over every other weekend instead of us hosting them every weekend! What do you think?

What's Been Going On

2008-05-28T11:33:00.003-05:00

Hello! I know it has been almost a month since I have posted.
Life has been very busy around here. My MIL has been out from Pheonix for about 3 weeks now, Kirstey is starting to drive (ARGGGGGG) and Summer is hitting the terrible-teenage years full force! LOL

We have been doing a LOT of entertaining. Which means ME cooking BIG meals every week (at least). Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE to cook but.... it does get stressful cooking for a dozen + people on a regular basis.

I haven't had as much time as I would like for knitting or crocheting. I dod manage to get a crocheted tote done made out of plastic grocery bags for a swap. I am starting on a "lettuce bag" for the same person. With no pattern I hope it turns out OK.

Also, I knit 13 washcloths, 1 pair of adult socks & matching baby socks, and a crocheted hat for a fund-raiser being held on the 7th of June. All proceeds will go for hospital bills for a 6 year old little boy fighting cancer.

Also, I joined Sock Wars III! I got over half of the first sock finished before I was assasinated! I am using Opal sock yarn in the Tiger (original) colorway.

So, that is what has been going on here- condensed version!

BAD-BAD BLOGGER!

2008-04-16T13:03:00.004-05:00

OMG! I just realized that I haven't posted a blog entry in MONTHS! MONTHS! I am so ashamed!

Yes, I have had a LOT going on but I didn't realize that it had been so long! What has been going on??? Well, I have been dealing with teen-ager problems X2 with both daughters, marriage problems with my Hubby (Too bad to go into right now), my own depression issues, trying to spend time with my sons, plus my MIL is moving here from Pheonix! Now, she is not suppose to move in with us (she will be staying with my BIL), but I have a feeling that she WILL wind up living with us in the end. I told Jeff he needs to go ahead & get the garage turned into another room cause that is the only place we have available where she would have her own space & privacy. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my MIL BUT... she has always been 3,000 miles away and only visited once every few years. It is going to be a BIG change with her being here ALL the time!

On the knitting front.... I finally got my knitting machine table so I could set my bond up! I have been playing around with it a little but don't see myself using for more than afghans or maybe basic sweaters. Jeff thought I would quit hand-knitting completely when it was set up! LOL Can you believe that???? He said "But you can get everything done so much FASTER"! LOL- I tried to explain to him that I enjoyed hand-knitting but, I don't expect him to understand!

I have finished a couple of items! I finally got Kirstey's black & purple scarf finished (I cheated & finished it on the bond but I was SOOOO tired of the plain stockinette). She loved & and never knew it wasn't hand-knit! I also completed a crocheted afghan for my eldest son Michael (he has ben asking for about 3 years now). I used this pattern:

http://www.crochetcabana.com/Patterns/Afghans/darbys-diag-boxst-petit.pdf

Here are some pics of the finished couch blanket:

I'm Back- Hopefully!

2008-01-25T08:50:00.000-05:00

OK, after weeks of problems with our internet-phone-cable service, we are "suppose" to get it permantently fixed today. Of course, Jeff had to call the company and threaten to come to the office (and believe me, he WILL if needed to get things done). He was a little hot under the collar after two weeks of no phone or internet service and then they kept him on hold for 40 minutes yesterday- 40 MINUTES!

So, while it is running for now I thought I would write an update on my knitting!

Here is a pair of socks I have completed! Made using the Sock Wars "Scar" pattern & Knit Picks essentials yarn, size 3 dpns. These will be a Christmas gift for someone this year.

The Calorimetry I made using some left-over yarn. This will also be a gift this year.

And my KAL Cloth for Jan- the Football cloth!

Hopefully I'll be able to post some more tommorrow and will have more photos!

It takes A Woman!!

2008-01-17T23:23:00.000-05:00

Ok, the past 5 days we have only had spiratic phone & internet access due to our cable line being out! Now, the cable itself has worked fine- just not the phone or internet! The "Cable Guy" came out last Saturday and tried for 2 hours to fix the problem to no avail. He left saying that the problem was "70% better" than when he came( after installing a new modem & running a new line)! Yeah RIGHT! Up until today we had NO phone, only a couple of hours when the internet was working (and try to fight two teenaged daughters to get on during those two hours), but the cable never faltered!
So, today, being the BITCH that I am, I went outside, opened the boxes and tracked down the problem myself! By 9 am I have the problem found & fixed! What was the problem???? One of the wires was bare & getting wet! So, after clipping the said wire, re-attaching it and checking ALL other wires, the problem is now fixed! I wonder how the cable company would feel if I sent THEM a bill for MY services! LMBO!
So my motto- NEVER SEND A MAN TO DO A WOMAN'S JOB! It never fit better than today! Here was a 37 yr old SAHM with only a GED education actually findind & solving a problem that a "well trained" man couldn't solve! Maybe he was trying to OVER complicate the job? Should I dare say it? I mean, if the phone & internet go down when there is rain or moisture in the air, wouldn't that tell anyone with a brain that something was up with the wiring??????
Now, the "Cable Guy" has to come back our & bury the "new" cable he ran which wasn't the problem to begin with-LOL- I will be smugly laughing as I watch him dig the 40 foot long trench to bury said cable which wasn't the problem to begin with! Is that bad of me????????
Tomorrow- lots of posts and pics about my knitting excapades! Hint- three FOs this week & another OTN that will be a FO within the next day or two!

Sorry For No Post!

2008-01-12T16:39:00.000-05:00

I don't know how long I am goint to be able to be on-line so I thought I would let everyone know that we are having cable problems. The technician was here 2 hours today and replaced EVERYTHING inside- new lines & a new modem but we are still having connection problems. Not only is my internet spiratic- but the phone line is also! It will be Monday or Tuesday until another mechanic can come out so- I may not be able to post until then! (And Boy, do I have things to post about)! So, until then- I AM still here! And knitting!

Still Working On Clapotis!

2008-01-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

I am still working on my Mother's Clapotis! I have decided to make a scarf instead of a stole and only increased 2 sections. I don't think I would have enough yarn to make the full-sized version and I think she will use a scarf more often (she is NOT a stole/shawl type).

I am also contemplating my next project. I am having a hard time finding anything that speaks to me. I know I need a longer-lasting project that can keep my attention ;o) Any suggestions?

Just A Pic Today

2008-01-07T15:03:00.000-05:00

Just a pic today- not feeling well. This is Little Bit playing!

Priceless Pic!

2008-01-06T23:31:00.000-05:00

Since I don't have extremely exciting things to write about being a SAHM- I thought I would share a pic of the high-light of my day!

Yes, that is Jeff actually washing dishes! Since this only happens MAYBE once a year- I had to get a pic! Since I was feeling bad- he decied to clean up- I wonder what he wants? ;o)

My Typical Saturday

2008-01-05T22:08:00.000-05:00

Today has been a typical Saturday around here! I got woke up by Kira barking & growling at 6:30 am because there were stupid-ass hunters shooting in the woods across the street! Not a good way to wake up after staying up til 2 am listening to Kirstey & her friend playing Guitar Hero III in her bedroom! Then off to the grocery store~FUN.

After laying around & knitting on some sock, watching Ramsey's Kitchen Nighmares, my friend April called & invited us over for dinner. So, after Kirstey went out for the night with her friends and Summer went to spend the night with her friend (teenaged girls NEVER want to be home with their PARENTS I have been told), we headed over.

April had made baked ziti with garlic bread and we had a nice meal. Then we played bowling on their WII system. It was a nice visit. Buddy and Jeff gossiped like two hens! LMAO- And they say women are bad!

So, that was my Saturday- a typical one! How was yours? And to close this blog- I will include a pic of my boys- not one of their best get-along moments!

Finally Some Pics!

2008-01-04T13:37:00.000-05:00

I finally figured out how to upload pics from my camera so- here are a few things that I have been working on!
A Clapotis I am working on for my Mom- this will become a Christmas gift for 2008. I am using handpainted sock yarn that I found in my stash & size 6 needles. Good thing she never reads my blog ;o)

Here are the socks I just finished for my Swap Partner! Yarrow Ribbed Socks pattern from Knitting Vintage Socks. Sockina Colori yarn & size 2 dpns.

This is a washcloth set I made for my Step-Mother for Christmas. I also included some handmade soaps- the gift went over well ;o)

First FO Of 2008!

2008-01-03T08:53:00.000-05:00

Woo-hooo! It is only the 3rd and I already have a FO! Yesterday I made a VERY long crocheted scarf in gray & blue. I based the pattern off of the One Skein Scarf by Denise Cozzitorto . Since I have crocheted for over 26 years- I just looked at some photos of some finished scarves and went with it! I hope to upload a picture as soon as Kirstey gets home from school today to show me how to work the darned camera! I am still working on a Clapotis and a pair of socks. I hope to have the socks finished my Monday!

My youngest, Summer, is home today with a nasty stomach bug! I hope no one else catches it! So- today I will spend most of the day taking care of her, bringing her ginger-ale & crackers, and disinfection the whole house (I tend to do this whenever anyone is sick in the house). I don't know why I am so damned anal about it but, I think if I can kill the germs on the surfaces, maybe no one else will get sick!

Well, I'll be back tomorrow! Have a great day (hopefully no disinfecting for you).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

Well, it is officially 2008! I should have posted yesterday BUT, was still partying~(Bad me)! I have to upload a few pics to post later but I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Pet Pics!

2007-12-20T23:42:00.000-05:00

Since I have NO photos of FO to post (but I DO have tons of FOs, really- just NO camera), I thought I would share some pics of my animal babies with everyone! So, if you dislike cats or dogs, go ahead and close the page!

Here is our White German Shepherd Kira- who is 2 1/2 years old and is so hyper I usually desribe her as a Jack russell Terrier in a German Shepherd body! But she IS sweet non-the-less!

Here is Sabrina- my 17 year old-FIV positive-Rumpy Manx! We have had to recently seperated her from the othr kittes due to health reasons. We are hoping to have her around forever BUT I know that it is getting time to where we need to watch her. She is THE SWEETEST cat EVER!

Here is Sabrina's daughter- Little Bit. She is our Prissy Kitty! Taking about a feline version of Paris Hilton- this is it! She is so dainty-so high strung, and expects ALL of the attention or she does something to GET attention! I love her to death though- she was my first hand-raised kittie (due to Sabrina's FIV)!
she is 9 years old!

Now we come to the Psycho Kitte of the house (don't we ALL have at least one)- Mysti! This girl was abandoned at our old home at the age of maybe 7 or 8 weeks of age. We found her outside in the rain- fending off several of our feral cat colony (which consided of 36 cats at that time) and- she was WINNING! THIS is the cat you have to watch out for and NEVEr turn your back on! One of her favorite ways of showing affection is to bite you (nibble as I call it), then look at you and DARE you to respond! LOL She is now 9 years old and litterally RUNS the house! It is nothing for her to run Kira into her crate while she is swiping her with her paws every time I get onto the dog!

Ok- these two are litterally my babies! BOTH were hand-raised from birth by me! Bottles, kittie formula, etc... Both were abandoned by their kittie Mommies at birth and have been with me from the start!

NEXT is "Momma's Boy". I cannot even sleep in the bed with my Hubby anymore! If I even TRY to lay down in my bedroom- Rupert layes at the door & cries (really cries) until I come out & lay down with him EVERY night! I found him and his 2 sisters when he was maybe 2 days old. I raised all 3 by hand until 6 months old- then I found homes for his sisters but kept him. He is now 3 1/2 years old and such a good-natured cat! I have had him around children as youndg as 9 or 10 months- with them pulling his whickers, hitting him on the head & torturing him and all he does is LAY there with them! EVERYONE who meets him LOVES him! Of course it doesn't hurt that he is SO lazy and SO big! He is 48 lbs even though ALL I feel ANY of my cats is a diet of IAMS original cat food an NOTHNG else!Fall in love- go ahead!

Now we come to the youngest.. Felix! We found him abandoned in our yard 10 weeks after finding Rupert & his siters. He was still wet from being born! After waiting to see if his kittie mommy would come back for him- we brought him inside &fed him. We took him to the vet & he was so small he didn't even register on the scales! He wasn't expected to live! Now at 3 years old & 53 lbs- he beat ALL of the odds!

14th Wedding Anniversary

2007-12-05T08:43:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was my 14th Anniversary married to my Hubby Jeff . It's hard to believe that it has been 14 years already~ even though we have been "together" for almost 19 years. We were talking last night about the very first time we met-

I was just 10 years old and he was 13. I went to church with my Aunt & Uncle and he was at the same church with his family. I was VERY shy then.... and he came up to me asking me to go downstairs to Sunday School with him. I was so shy that all I would do was shake my head no and turn away. This happened four or five Sundays. Then one Sunday he asked me again saying "I promise I won't leet anyone bother you, you can sit right next to me." That was the Sunday I went with him and he sat right next to me, sharing his books with me. That was the last Sunday I saw him at the church. His family had changed churches.

Move ahead two years... I was 12 and he was 15. He was in the Junior Explorers with my cousins but I didn't know it was him and he didn't know I was the same girl. He remembered seeing me at the haunted house they hosted that Halloween but I don't remember seeing him.

Move ahead six more years.... I was now 18 and he was 21. I had 2 children and was just separated from my first husband. I decided to go to a party with my cousin.....guess who was there! We started dating and have been together ever since!

It's funny how things have happened for us... really funny! We were sitting in bed last night talking about how we met as children...and are now happily married! I think maybe we were meant to be together all along. Something called fate maybe?

Jeff was so sweet last night- he brought home 14 pink roses (1 for every year of our marriage). He appologized for not finding yellow roses- the color of roses I carried down the isle at out wedding. He also brought me the most sweet card, a BIG suitcase FULL of make-up & nail polish (Kirstey & Summer had swiped all of mine), Two bottles of perfume (Shania's Starlight), a lot of hair styling supplies, and then gave me $100.00 to spend on myself. And I feel so bad because all I could give him was a home-cooked meal (rotisserie chicken & mashed potatoes) and a poem I wrote to him.

I am a lucky woman!

I Sold My First Etsy Item!

2007-12-04T08:36:00.000-05:00

I did it! I sold my first Etsy item! Remember these????? They sold last Friday!

So, I listed these:

And these:

Hopefully they will sell soon! Both pair were made using leftover sock yarns and size 4 dpns!

Also, I have started a new weight-loss blog. I didn't feel it was appropriate to blog about my weight-loss here so, here is the link if you are interested:http://krazishrinkingme.blogspot.com/

A Dreary Day- Perfect For Knitting!

2007-11-26T11:56:00.000-05:00

It is such a dreary day here in NC! Rainy, foggy and down right YUCKY! But, a perfect day for knitting! So, working on some Christmas gifts! The never-ending garter stitch scarf in black & purple for Kirstey and some socks for my Mother. And yet, I have the itch to start something else! I have to fight it! LOL

We are also getting ready to decorate the house for the holidays. Had to go out & buy ALL new icile lights for outside since Jeff threw out every strand last year! I picked out the multi-colored ones this time and had to buy 7 boxes, I just hope it is enough for the front of the house. We also bought a new Holiday welcome sign for the front door, a musical snowman riding a Harley, a jingle-bell tree for the cats (don't ask) and some beaded table-top trees. That is all we are going to purchase new this year except or a stocking for my son Robert. We try to add a little each year for the house decorations since we just bought the house two years ago.

Also, I got 4 inches cut off of my hair Saturday! It needed it so bad! And it feels so much lighter! My hairstylist kept saying "I need to add more layers- it's still too thick". Then she pulled out the thinning scissors and whacked away! Then finally gave up saying "You have enough hair for 4 people!" LOL- I told her not to worry about it! My hair is never going to look like a movie-star's hair! Really, it IS too thick BUT I like it! LOL

So, off to fix a cup of coffee- grab my knitting and plant myself in from of the boob-tube to catch up on all of the Ghost Hunter's episodes I have recorded!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T18:34:00.000-05:00

Well, another Thansgiving rolls around and I have so much to be thanksful for this year! My Husband Jeff, my children, my parents, my sisters & brother and their families. We have a home and I have some good friends. This year is especially good because after 18 years, I got to meet my son and we are now forming a relationship! And, for the first time ever, all of my children were together! Yes, I have SO much to be thankful for!
Tomorrow we will have a big dinner here. Both of my sisters and their families are coming! My oldest son will be home!And I have planned a BIG spread! Here is what I am serving:

- A 22lb. turkey
- homemade biscuits
- homemade mashed potatoes
- dressing
- gravy
- green beans
- deviled eggs
- cranberry sauce
- homemade pumpkin pie
- apple crumb pie
- banana pudding

I think that is it! Cooking the pies right now!

Have a happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Today IS A Better Day!

2007-11-09T08:08:00.000-05:00

Well, after wallowing in my depression on my B-Day, I got to thinking yesterday. Only I can change this. It's up to me. I think I have been relying on everyone else to make me happy- maybe that is why I have been so miserable. So, I've decided that it is time for me to take control.

No more laying around in my sweats all day, I HAVE to do SOMETHING other than clean the house. Something that makes me feel good BESIDES drinking a bottle of wine per setting!

Also, I've got to start taking better care of myself! Fix my hair (it hasn't been cut since this time last year) and buy some make-up (the daughters have gotten all I had). Also, I need some new clothes that make me feel good even though I am a BBW!

I am also going to start exercising again, when I was exercising on a regular basis, I always felt UP. I have an eliptical machine just sitting in my room- and I have now started recording "Shimmy", a belly-dancing show on Fit TV. I have always wanted to learn to belly-dance!

I have also started taking Saint John's Wort for depression. We will see if it hekps. My Hubby and are are at least talking and have decided that 18 years of being together is too important to throw it away without trying again. He is actually being really sweet and trying so hard. He has even been hugging & kissing me every day before he goes to work if I am awake and as soon as he walks in the door at night.

And I HAVE STARTED KNITTING AGAIN! Just a pair of socks, a scarf for my daughter and a "wand" holder for my Son who is to become a Music Teacher. LOL
We will see if this lasts. I'm feeling better right now at least.

I HATE My Birthday!

2007-11-06T11:26:00.000-05:00

Well, another year has rolled around and as of tomorrow I will be ANOTHER year older! And for some reason, I don't really even care this year! So much has been going on- with my kids, my hubby, my wrecked marriage, my pets, and my life that it doesn't seem to matter this year.

I have been battling a bad bout of depression the past few weeks and I don't even know what it's about! I mean, what to I have to be depressed about? I have a husband of almost 14 years, 4 gorgeous children- 1 of which I just found after 18 years (long story) and we are forming a relatonship, I am a SAHM no- no formal job, 6 lovely cats, 1 dog, a few good friends- so what do I have to be depressed about?

Then I remember, my hubby and I aren't getting along as we should, not fighting mind you- just not talking, 2 of my 4 children HATE me on a daily basis (both teenaged daughters), I have NO PURPOSE outside of my home, cannot even drive, have put on 60 lbs, and 1 of my cats will probably have to be put down soon. So.... my birthday isn't a good time this year.

I have been spending a lot of time laying on the couch, watching TV, taking naps, drinking whichever wine or beer I can bribe the afore mentioned hubby to bring home, staying as smashed as I can after the kiddes go to bed, pass out- repeat the next day! FUN FUN FUN! I've even told my hubby that I think I need to go back on the meds that the Dr had me on for depression only to find out he has misplaced our insurance cards- inotherwords, LOST them!

So, tomorrow will be a boring day, but maybe, just maybe I'll bring myself to knit a little and cheer myself up!

Sock Wars II-Target Assasinated!

2007-10-15T11:21:00.000-05:00

Well, above are my Scar socks before finishing and heading off to assasinate my target in VA! The pattern was so easy! And working on size 3 dpns makes things so much faster! They took all of a day and a little for the pair!

I used Knit PicksFelici in the Coastal colorway!

And The Battle Begins

2007-10-11T11:04:00.001-05:00

Yes, I have enlisted in battle! I have my weapons at the ready! So, to my Target- YOU ARE GOING DOWN! LOL

Am I crazy?

Hugz
Lora

I'm BACK!

2007-08-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

After a Whirl-Wind Summer I think I will be able to regularly post now ;o)

To all of my friends and readers... I am so VERY sorry that I have not kept up with my blogging lately! There has just been so much going on!

Let me explain a little.....

A few months ago I started searching for my son Little Steven (Robert) whom I gave up custody of (not by choice) 18 years ago (when he was 3 months old). Well, back in June I found him on MySpace of all places! After getting up the nerve to contact him, we had been e-mailing each other for a couple of months when I FINALLY got to meet him face-to-face on August the 11th!

So... you see- my mind has not been on blogging or knitting at all! But........... I DO have pics to share from our first meeting!

See----- I HAVE Been Knitting!

2007-08-01T12:43:00.000-05:00

Here is the proof!
First some Funky Fingerless Gloves modeled by my 13 yr old daughter:
I used size 2 dpns and leftover sock yarn.

And my Kiri Shawl!
A BIG knitting accomplishment for me.....LACE! LOL

So........ what do you think???????

Jumping In!

2007-07-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

Well, after all that I've read about the MS3 I decided to join in on the fun myself! I am now up to row 75 after ripping out once due to a wine-induced mistake.

Lesson learned- do NOT knit lace while drinking!

AS soon as my camera is up and running ( the kiddos broke it AGAIN)- I will post some pics!

Anyone else knitting the MS3???????

Hugz
Lora J aka The Krazi Knitter

Knitting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-06-25T10:58:00.000-05:00

Mark in bold the things you have done, with italics the ones you plan to do sometime, and leave the rest plain.

Afghan

I-cord

Garter stitch

Knitting with metal wire

Shawl

Stockinette stitch

Socks: top-down

Socks: toe-up

Knitting with camel yarn

Mittens: Cuff-up

Mittens: Tip-down

Hat

Knitting with silk

Moebius band knitting

Participating in a KAL

Sweater

Drop stitch patterns

Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn

Slip stitch patterns

Knitting with bananafiber yarn

Domino knitting (=modular knitting)

Twisted stitch patterns

Knitting with bamboo yarn

Two end knitting

Charity knitting

Cardigan

Toy/doll clothing

Knitting with circular needles

Baby items

Knitting with your own handspun yarn

Slippers

Graffitti knitting (knitting items on, or to be left on the street)

Continental knitting

Designing knitted garments

Cable stitch patterns (incl. Aran)

Lace patterns

Publishing a knitting book

Scarf

Teaching a child to knit

American/English knitting (as opposed to continental)

Knitting to make money

Button holes

Knitting with alpaca

Fair Isle knitting

Norwegian knitting

Dying with plant colours

Knitting items for a wedding

Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cosies…)

Olympic knitting

Knitting with someone elses handspun yarn

Knitting with dpns

Holiday related knitting

Teaching a male how to knit

Bobbles

Knitting for a living

Knitting with cotton

Knitting smocking

Dying yarn

Steeks

Knitting art

Knitting two socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars simultaneously

Fulling/felting

Knitting with wool

Textured knitting

Kitchener

Purses/bags

Knitting with beads

Swatching

Long Tail CO

Entrelac

Knitting and purling backwards

Machine knitting

Knitting with self patterning/self striping/variegating yarn

Stuffed toys

Knitting with cashmere

Darning

Jewelry

Knitting with synthetic yarn

Writing a pattern

Gloves

Intarsia

Knitting with linen

Knitting for preemies

Tubular CO

Freeform knitting

Short rows

Cuffs/fingerless mits/armwarmers

Pillows

Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine

Rug

Knitting on a loom

Thrummed knitting

Knitting a gift

Knitting for pets

Shrug/bolero/poncho

Knitting with dog/cat hair

Hair accessories

Knitting in public

Life (SH*T) Happens AGAIN!

2007-04-26T22:28:00.000-05:00

I am so very sorry for not posting for the past few weeks. My Hubby's NaNa (Grand Mother) passed last Sunday from complications from Alsheimerzers (msp) and he and his brother had to travel from NC to AZ with a days notice. Na Na was 85 yrs old, wise BEYOND her years EVEN during her darkest battles with her disease.

Now, after paying $360 per ticket times 2 we have hit a financial blow (on top of dealing with the loss of the family Matriarch) and I am left trying to figure out how to help my Hubby play catch-up with ALL our bills! We are ready to cut out all most everything! Cell-phones gone, extra groceries-gone, our gas bill can wait, etc..... BUT now we have gotten to the morgage on our house being behind!

Jeff is becoming VERY ill worring over finacial matters, I am try to cut costs where ever I can ( even with the grocery allotment), but we are still arguing and fighting! Tonight he said that we may have to let the cable, internet and phone go.... I blew a gasket! The ONLY lifeline I have to the world outside of my home is through these items! I cannot drive due t0 panic attacks! I am able to ride if someone else is driving! I spend 6 out of 7 days watching cable, knitting, cleaning, dealing with the girls and cooking. On Sunday I go to the grocery store with Jeff and tend to our weekly shopping!
The internet REALLY IS my window outside if my home! BUTT- he doesn't see WHAT that lifeline does for ME! SO, now I am trying to think of ways that I can earn money for what I can do -and do damned good- cooking, knitting & crocheting! I am thinking of knitting fingerless (punk-style) gloves and posting on www.etsy.com BUT it IS warm weather, so who would purchase them?
I ALSO have been thinking about opening an informal Southern Cooking School from my home and charging for the lessons. Then I thought about combining it all and starting a "Country Crafting & Cooking School" from my home to make a little extra $! Now, I KNOW I am a damned terrific Southern cook Butt.... will anyone be interested in learning from me UNLESS they tasted my cooking?????
I KNOW what I am GREAT at BUT how do I go from here???? I can teach knitting, crocheting, and cooking BUT.... how do I go about making it a business when I cannot even leave my home??? Do I publish a crafting/ cooking/ crafting book? Do I try to teach cooking or crafting from my home for a fee? I AM determined to try SOMEHOW! Maybe posting on Cragislist.com BUT, I would like to hear your imput!

Thanks for ALL of your ideas!

My Thoughts

2007-04-18T14:49:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows about the Virginia happenings this past Monday. I have been watching the TV and contemplating on the events. And, honestly, my feelings are too raw to post about without offending at least a few people so, I would just like to convey my deepest condolences to ALL effected by the event! ESPECIALLY the families of those lost, the friends and classmates of the lost and the school itself. Other than that, I do NOT trust myself to say any more........

Non- Knitting Shopping Spree & WIP!

2007-03-02T23:25:00.000-05:00

Well, I Jeff just got his first paycheck today from his new job at Duke University! Man, a $6 an hour pay raise makes a WORLD of difference! We went out to dinner ( our favorite Asian place) tonight, he took me shopping and we purchased new sheets for our bed (the GOOD sheets), he got a new cell-phone (so I can have mine back), I got some kewl new shades AND he bought me some new yarn needles so I can graft the toes on my SIP instead of using the 3-needle bind off!

When we got home I showed him my latest catalog from www.Metrostyle.com and an outfit that I fell in love with. He told me to order myself a FEW new outfits! Can you BELIEVE it? He told me to shop for clothes!!!! Since I have gained weight (due to PCOS), all I have had to fit into were sweatpants, stretchies and HIS shirts!

Well Here is what I ordered:

From www.metrostyle.com:

Plus these:

And from www.Newportnews.com I bought these:

I got 3 pair of the above leggings for the price of 2. Plus I got another shirt and a FREE watch ($50 value) from metrostyle!

Now just to wait until they arrive! These are my FAVORITE places to shop for clothing! The clothes are not teenage-ish but not granny-ish either! Being in my mid thirties, I still like the "new" fashion and am still young enough to want to dress sexy!

I finally picked up the needles again today after a couple of weeks of having no knitting interest. I go through phases like this occasionally. I have found that if I do not push myself to knit during these times, it passes and I am back at it again. If I try to force myself to knit when i have no interest- it takes longer to get through. I am working on my second sock of the pair in Opal Petticoat! I am already to the foot and heading towards to toe! I'll post a pic as soon as I get them finished!

It's great to be back! If you read my blog, do me a favor and leave a comment! I am starting to think that no one is interested in my escapades in knitting!

JUST Recovering From Super Bowl Weekend!

2007-02-07T23:39:00.000-05:00

I know that it is Wednesday, but I am JUST recovering from this past weekend! And WHAT a weekend it was!

Saturday I used the gift that my Hubby gave me for Christmas/Yule. Queen for The Day at "The Spa by Mitchel's". I was picked-up by a white stretch limo at 10:45 am, driven 30 minutes to the Spa (at a mall), had 45 minutes to window shop ALONE with NO hubby or children! Then my spa day begun!

First it was a 20 minute theraputic bath. When my attendant showed me the little paper bra and panties I was suppose to fit into I laughed SO hard! I mean sre these things supppose to cover NORMAL women???? LOL

The top BARELY fit and the bottom covered JUST ENOUGH. Plus, I was in the room alone besides my female attendant so I sat down into the tub. She lowered the lights, turned on some classical misic HEAVY with flute, turned on the tub and left the room. At first it was like sitting in a tub of champeign bubbles, then two to three minutes later the jets got a little more vigorous and it became like being in a hot tub. That was still OK. But, a few minutes later the movement was like a full rolling boil and I was being tossed around! (Mind you, I am 5'3" and I think the tub was made for someone 6"). My feet barely touched the foot bar AND IT ROLLED! LMAO Most of the time I was trying to keep my head above the water! LOL

Then came my massage! Let me tell you Ladies.... It was HEAVEN on earth! I had a hour and a half deep tissue and acupressure massage. I have NEVER felt SO relaxed! Next was a facial. The expert facialist (if that is a word) was a tiny Asian woman who has the softest voice. We argued for half and hour over if I was part Asian or not- I explained to her that it was Native American she was seeing but I never convinced her. She spent another 2 hours on my facial. The whole time fussing at me for not taking care of my skin. LOL I had microdermabrasion done during that time also.

After the facial I had a nice Luch followed by a manicure & pedicure. Then another 45 minutes to shop the mall some more and a stretch Limo ride back home. I was gone for 8 hours! And it was the Nicest 8 hours I have had in YEARS!

ON SUNDAY:
I woke up at 8 am to start preparing for the Super Bowl Party. I cooked & cleaned all day (Jeff cleaned too).
I made mini-cheesecakes, triple chocolate brownies, 2 types of wings, meatballs, bacon crescent wraps, pigs in a blanket, spinach dip, veggie platter, chips & dip, chicen nuggets, sausage balls, and other items that I cannot remember right now.
We had 20+ people here. And two of the families it was our first time meeting. We had some old friends, some family, some new neighbors, and Kirstey's boyfriend and his parents. Everyone seemed to have a good time (I was busy running around making sure of that). We had a insident where one of the parent hit his child out of anger but that was handled. I have already received Thank You notes and calls from our guests!

We are planning anouther BIGGER party for Samhain this year! An adult only costume party with games & prizes! We will see how that goes. I am NOT a big party thrower. WE just moved to this house a year and a half ago and I never hosted a large party before this. I was SO nervous that there wouldn't be enough food, or that the women wouldn't have a good time (the men were all glues to the TV and were fine). But it seemed to go off OK.

I also caught a cold on Monday- So I am still recovering!

I'm B-A-C-K!!!!!!

2007-01-30T08:41:00.000-05:00

Helloooooooooooo!
It has been SO long since I had anything decent to post about. I have had the dreaded startitus again. I have cast on for socks, sweaters, scarves, baby items, etc.... just to rip them out! I usually do not have this problem for as long as I have this time. Either I do not like the pattern, the yarn, or the combination of the two.

I did, however, order 66 skeins of cotton yarn from http://www.elmore-pisgah.com/! Half of it came on Friday and the other half is due to be delivered today. On the non-knitting front, I have order 5 new complete outfits from www.Metrostyle.com and www.NewportNews.com and they are due to arrive today and tommorrow.

We took Kirstey and got her belly-button pierced Saturday. Of course, now Summer wants HERS done too! Kirstey also informed me last night that she has a new boyfriend named Nate (I wonder how long this one will last). Now, remember she is only 14 and come to find out he is 17! (Not to happy about that). He is 6'4" and wears a size 15 1/2 shoe (she is 5'0"). She wants us to have him over for the SuperBowl Party on Sunday. We will see.... I think it will be OK with ALL he male family members (plus Summer) watching them like a hawk! LOL

SOOOO, what do YOU do when the dreaded startitus moster rears it's ugly head on YOU?????????

A Quick Quiz!

2007-01-29T08:14:00.000-05:00

Dark Purple

To others, you seem a bit dark, mysterious, and moody.In truth, you are just a very unique person who doesn't care what others think.And you really enjoy your offbeat interests and friends.You've decided that life is about living for yourself - simple as that.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatcolorpurpleareyouquiz/">What Color Purple Are You?

New Years Knitting Funk!

2007-01-06T00:18:00.000-05:00

OK, OK,
I know it has been a month since my last post BUTT...With the Holidays, time has really been tight. On top of all of the seasonal fare--- I have hit a knitting slump! My DH (Jeff) has asked me to ONLY knit from my stash for a while!!
The NERVE! Can you believe it????

Honestly 99% of what is in my stash is ICKY cheapo acrylic shit (we ALL know of the RH shit)! WHO WANT TO KNIT WITH THAT?????? But, I do understand our financial situation. So, since I have ONLY my ICKY, shity yarns to knit with, I have lost the urge to knit! PLEASE HELP!

I am knitting/ crocheting for charity but can not use up this plastic crap up fast enough! Don't get me wrong, I DO respect the acrylic stuff for it's uses! Child items, long-lasting afghans, gifts for unapreciative recipricants, etc... BUT, I want to knit for SPRING clothing items for ME!

How can convince my DH that GOOD yarns are a NEED for ME? ANY suggestions????

FO For Charity & My Wonderful Hubby!

2006-12-05T12:10:00.000-05:00

Another Charity FO to report! A little Christmas set for AC4C December's Project! I hope it isn't too small to be useful.

Well, yesterday was my 13th wedding anniversary! And lookie what my wonderful Hubby Jeff brought me home! A Dozen pink roses & 3 yellow ones( He remebered that I carried a boquet of yellow roses down the isle on or wedding day). Isn't he the greatest?

Hanging The Lights!

2006-12-04T09:01:00.000-05:00

I just have to share pics of Jeff hanging the lights :

And The Finished Product:

Ode to my Hubby!

2006-12-03T19:51:00.000-05:00

As of tommorrow, Jeff and I will be Married for 13 years! Tommorrow is our wedding anniversary! We do not have the money to do anything special or buy each other anything But it will still be special to me either way!

Jeff and I met when I was 9 or 10 years old and he was 12 or 13. I was visiting my Aunt & Uncle here in NC for a month (my family was living in Alaska at the time) and I had went to church with them. I was VERY shy (VERY). and Jeff came up to me asking me to go to Sunday School with him. For WEEKS I wouldn't even speak to him.... just put my head behind my Uncle & shook my head no. BUT, Jeff asked EVERY Sunday! Finally I went after he promised that he wouldn't let ANYONE bother me. Well- that was 25 + years ago! And, even though we didn;t meet again for 7 years, I think it was meant to be! We met again through my cousin (on the OPOSITE side of my fimily) 2 months after I left my abusive 1st husband and have been together since! We have been a couple for 18 years- married for 13 tommorrow.

Everyone our age asks us what our secret is. We seem (to them) to never be cross at each other (IF they ONLY know what went on in private)! All I tell them is that he REALLY IS my best friend AND my husband! I think that may be THE secret! WE truely are each other best friends! Even when we aren't getting along, we try to see each other's views. And I know that we can survive it all!

We are SO VERY different also! He is HYPER! Never sitting still- always in a hurry and on the go! I am laid back, never in a hurry, and a home-body! His passions (besides the children) are motorcycles, cars (MOPARS), and drag-racing-ALL FAST SPORTS! My passions are gardening, cooking, charity work, taking care of my children, etc... We are actually so VERY OPPOSITE! But we work together SO well!

I watch Drag Racing with his.... He taked me to the new Local Yarn Stores and acually FEELS tha yarns! He understands WHY I Like what I do and actually encourages me to buy yarn, to knit, and to give what I make away! He actually cares enough to ASK about what I am working on! And asks me to make items for himself!

I wish I could put into words what my better-half means to me! Instead, maybe I should h=just give him access to this posting! What do ya think?

FO For Charity!

2006-12-03T12:28:00.000-05:00

Here is a combo crochet/knit set finished for AC4C's December project. The sweater & pants are crocheted, the booties are knit. This will fit a 4 to 5 lb. baby!

Yule Tree Is Up!

2006-11-28T12:37:00.000-05:00

We put up the Yule Tree last night! Just wanted to share some pictures!

With the light on:

With the lights off!

PERFECT Day To Knit!

2006-11-21T08:49:00.000-05:00

Well, it is C-O-L-D and outside! Hail is coming down at this very moment! We have a Nor-Easter off the coast and it is PERFECT knitting weather! My plans for today & tonight? After I get the dreaded housework finished, I am going to light the fireplace, pour a cup of coffee if it is early, a glass of wine (or 5) if it is late, and knit!

Only two Christmas items to knit- both a request from my Mother. A pair of plain colored socks for her (I ALWAYS make her wild socks) and a size 18-month dress or poncho for my 16 year old brother's girlfriend's daughter Sierra (did you follow that-LOL)

I have to find some solid colored yarn for the socks. I wonder if she will mind Opal solid pink? And of course if it is going to be a solid colored yarn- it will have to be a patterned cuff so not to get bored! LOL- it is a bright color BUT it IS solid! And I have the perfect pink and purple yarns for Sierra's items! Both are WW so it will go fast.

Also, since I got my hair cut, my head is cold so---some type of head covering for myself. I do not look right in hats.. so I will see what I come up with. And I plan to start on a charity item for the Reservation. A scarf for mindless knitting.

This will be my last relaxing day (after housework) until Thanksgiving Dinner. I have to start the pies and sweet potato casserole tomorrow in order to free-up the oven for other items on Thursday!

Anyone else just spending most of the day relaxing & knitting besides me?????

You are The Lovers

Motive, power, and action, arising from Inspiration and Impulse.

The Lovers represents intuition and inspiration. Very often a choice needs to be made.

Originally, this card was called just LOVE. And that's actually more apt than "Lovers." Love follows in this sequence of growth and maturity. And, coming after the Emperor, who is about control, it is a radical change in perspective. LOVE is a force that makes you choose and decide for reasons you often can't understand; it makes you surrender control to a higher power. And that is what this card is all about. Finding something or someone who is so much a part of yourself, so perfectly attuned to you and you to them, that you cannot, dare not resist. This card indicates that the you have or will come across a person, career, challenge or thing that you will fall in love with. You will know instinctively that you must have this, even if it means diverging from your chosen path. No matter the difficulties, without it you will never be complete.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Planning Thanksgiving Dinner & A New Do!

2006-11-20T08:02:00.000-05:00

Here is a pic of my new DO! Jeff doesn't really like it but after they took 10 inches off- I feel a LOT better ;o) Anyhoo, it's just hair... it will grow back within the year ;o)

I have a feeling EVERYONE will be blogging about Thankgiving this week so, I fee it is OK to do so myself ;o) Of course, it will be at my house, with me doing ALL of the cooking (I am SURE that Summer will take over SOME dish)!

So far it will be myself, Jeff, Kirstey, Summer, Michael, Ashley & Jeff's brother Steven. I am hoping my Mom, her husband, and my little brother Brian will also come But Mom has to work half of the day.

We already did the shopping.

Appetizers will consist of:

Chips & dip
coctail weenies in BBQ sauce
stuffed crescent rolls.

The main meal will be:

Turkey
mashed potatoes
sweet potato casserole
stuffing
gravy
corn on the cob
cranberry sauce
deviled eggs
parkerhouse rolls

The sweets will be:

Apple pie
pumpkin pie
vanilla ice-cream
sugar-free cheesecake for me

The beverages will be:

Apple Cider
Tea
Sodas
Burgundy wine (for me & Michael)
Chardonnay (for me & Michael)

So- that is the plan for now ;o)

2006-11-15T08:33:00.000-05:00

I am a
Canna

What Flower
Are You?

A Small FO!

2006-11-11T14:37:00.000-05:00

Working on small Holiday gifts I conpleted the Lace Leaf Washcloth by Fiber Trends. I used sport weight cotton in ercu and size 4 needles!

Latest Knitting & Family News!

2006-11-10T00:23:00.000-05:00

OK, OK..... I KNOW I haven't posted in the LONGEST time! Life SUCKS... so SUE ME! BUTT.............I AM trying to redeam myself here!!!!!!

A HAVE been knitting TONS! I have literally BOXES of FOs to send of for my varios charities! Blankets... booties....preemie items.... slippers.... hats! Literally about 8 BOXES of FOs!

Also, one of my friends roped me into knitting her 1 stole and 1 shawl for her cruise in a month (her wedding anniversary)! The stole was finished weeks ago and given to her BUT I am still working on the triangle shawl (http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/ccc-shawl.html?noImages=0)

The Rectangular stole was worked in black wiht gold (wish I had a pic) and the above shawl is worked in black with silver. I WILL get pics to post BEFORe she leaves for te cruise to Mexico!

I also finished a Baniff (www. knitty.com - check the archives) in Lion Brand Jiffy denver colorway for my Mommy (Christmas Gift FO). I followed the pattern BUT added a rolled cuff to the bottom! My Mom is a very petite woman so I am sure she will LOVe this sweater! It will be over-sized & comfy for her!

I have taken some FO pics BUT Kirstey ran the batteries out for my camera tonight since she went to a foot-ball game! It is SOOO very hard to realize that my 14 yr. old daughter is in HIGH SCHOOL and I have to let-go!! Well, even though we "drop her off" we just park the car a ways away! She has no idea that we are still watching her from a distance! Does that make us bad parents????????????? I don't thinks so! She may be in High School because of her grades/ intelligence (she is 2 years AHEAD of all others right now) BUT, she is still my 14 year old baby!!!!!!

OK, OK I have rambled ENOUGH. Probably not making sence to anyone BUT myself I am so tired. AS soon as my camera id recharged I will post some pics!

Huggiez
Lora J
AKA THE KRAZI KNITTER

Joined a NEW Sock Contest!!!

2006-10-26T01:16:00.000-05:00

OK, I'll admit it..... I've been in a knitting slump for a while! BUTT.....I think I have found my cure! The !

I know, I am starting a little late BUT.... it touches my Pagan/Wiccan soul! I KNOW I can design SOMETHING for Samhain that has a "Witchy" feel! So.... I am off to play wiht a pattern idea tommorrow (or, later today)! I'll post pics and hints to the design as I go ;o)

Knitterz Hugz
The Krazi Knitter
AKA Lora

Just Some Fun!

2006-10-08T22:08:00.000-05:00

You Are 100% Psychic

You are so very psychic.
But you already predicted that, didn't you?
You have "the gift" - and you use it daily to connect with others.
You're very tapped into the world around you...
Just make sure to use your powers for good!

Are You Psychic?

You Are a Martini

There's no other way to say it: you're a total lush.
You hold your liquor well, and you hold a lot of it!

What Mixed Drink Are You?

You Are The Chariot

You represent a difficult battle, and a well-deserved victory.
You tend to struggle to get what you want, both internally and externally.
You excel at controlling opposing forces, getting down the same path.
In the end, you bring glory and success - using pure will to move forward.

Your fortune:

There is great conflict in your life right now, either with yourself or others.
You must find a solution to this conflict, which is likely to be a "middle road" between the two forces.
You posses the skills to triumph over these struggles, as long as your will is strong.
You are transforming your inner self, building a better foundation for future successes.

What Tarot Card Are You?

Life Updates & Knitting Updates!

2006-09-26T10:46:00.000-05:00

I am still alive! Just been in a BLAH mood for a few weeks! Not to mention this damn head cold I cannot shake!

Kirstey is going out for the "Powder-Puff" football team this week, has joined the "Accepting Diversity" club at school and tried our for two plays this week alone. I am so glad that she is doing so well after what has happened.

Jeff has decided to disolve his company due to disagreements with his partner. He is now working for a BIG company with better pay ( he makes more than his supervisor LOL) & benifits so, all-in-all it worked out for the best anyway;o)

I have now started the pink Corset-T for Kirstey and I am down past the sleeves. I am not loving this color BUT it is not for me so- I'll keep working on it.

I am going to start on Holiday knitting for Yule. Not sure of what I am going to make for whom but it will come to me as I go ;o)

Ta-Ta for now!

My Corset_T is Finis!

2006-09-10T17:43:00.000-05:00

Knitting Through Ernesto!

2006-08-31T20:10:00.000-05:00

Well, Ernesto is beating down my back door and I am TERRIFIED of even the smallest thunderstorm since almost getting struck by lightening. So, what am I doing???? Drinking wine & knitting Garterlac dishcloths! LOL- Two down so far!

I have also picked up my Silk Corset-T and knit a few rows. Maybe one day I will be down to the bust shaping ;o) I am using a discontinued color of Endless Summer Collection Luna from Elann.com (a silvery blue shade). I am going to TRY to add long bell sleeves but I am not sure if I have enough yarn. If not, it will be short sleeved.

I'll take pics of everything tommorrow to share- I should really get off the computer before 1. lightening strikes and/or 2. I get too tipsy to type straight- LOL

Until tommorrow- keep those needles flying!

A Very Unextepected Finding

2006-08-19T00:22:00.000-05:00

OK, this is VERY non-knitting related BUT.... more life relating. I have had a couple (2 total) of glasses chardonnay tonight BUT, I have also had one hell of a week! First off, baby Ashey has decided to have a MAJOR growth-spurt and wants to nusre non-stop. She is up to almost 61/2 lbs now! BUTT she is in constant need of nursing every hour on the hour! I know, I know, she is a 2 and 1/2 months old preemie and I should be glad that she is thriving so much! And, please believe me I AM! BUT, it is very draining to nurse a baby that is in need to catch-up so much right now. BUT I WILL!

I remember the same thing happening with my other children at about the same age. The NEED to be attached to me at every moment of the day! LOL-BUT with her being a preemie, and the fight she has had, I have had almost 6 weeks of CONSTANT nursing (or pumping) to keep up with her need for growth. I feel SO guilty for asking for sleep right now. I know in a few weeks (or months) it will all be a blurr---- she will be sleeping ALL NIGHT wirhout an hourly feeding from Mommy (BUTT at this time all I can do is BEG for a few hours of rest).I fell SO guilty! When my other daughter's were her age I had no problem with the fatigue! But note that I am 35+ and I find myself relying on my Husband when I never did before.

Just this week alone-my 20 yr. son showed up at 4am drunk and injured from a fight, and I found out that my 14 yr old daughter was forced to have sex by a 15 yr old. (The poloce & D.A. have already been in-contact and charges are being filed)

Honestly, sometimes I feel that charities are all I have to connect me with others. My knitting & crocheting for others makes me concentrate on others who have worse problems than myself!

Give me your imput PLEASE!

HUGZ
Lora

Half of a FO!

2006-08-18T13:40:00.000-05:00

Here is my latest FO- A "slinky" sock in Opal Flamingo! I LOVE this pattern and plan on making several more pair!

Also, here is a Pic of ONE of my animal babies doing what he does best! 23 lb. Rupert being laid back in his favorite position! LOL

My Ugly Mug!

2006-08-08T23:01:00.000-05:00

I have just realized that I have never posted my face on my own blog! Well, that should NOT be! Everyone should know the face of the intimate thoughts they are reading shouldn't they? So, here is my ugly mug! Please, no hate mail!

Pics of Fo for AC4C!

2006-08-08T22:54:00.000-05:00

For the Boys! Two more pair to go!

Girl's Colors completed! 5 pair of socks/slippers!

Two Face Cloths:

Photos Of My Stash & Stash Enhancement!

2006-08-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

My MAIN stash storage that Jeff built for me!

More Cones- two deep.

My sock yarn & fingering weights- three layers deep:

My left-over sock yarns.

My NEW Sugar & Creme came yesterday! 15 skeins of Country Sage Ombre for kitchen items!Sitting with my other cottons.

Now, this is my MAIN stash, I have more hidden all over the house hear & there-LOL.

More Charity Items

2006-08-01T09:33:00.000-05:00

Here are some more items I have made for AC4C's August project.

New FOs!

2006-07-30T11:06:00.000-05:00

Here are some items I have finished recently!

First are three pair of booties for AC4C's July Project:

And here are some items I have finished for AC4C's August Project so far:

The Long Awaiting SURPRISE!

2006-07-27T23:42:00.000-05:00

Ok, OK, I cannot hold it in any longer! I HAVE to let you in on a very special happening in my family!

On June 2nd I (very unexpectedly) gave birth to my daughter Ashley Renee! I suspected I was either crazy or pregnant for months but my Drs said It was my PCOS since I had a tubal ligation 12 years ago! After moments of what I thought was just "cramps" she was delivered by Jeff on our bed!

She weighed 4lbs 6 oz at birth. But, developed jaundice, and a stomach condition and had to have surgery. She lost down to 3lbs 5 oz. After the last 6 weeks in the NICU she was finally able to come home a few days ago- weighing all of 4lbs 3 oz as discharge!

I would LOVE to thank SO DEEPLY my friends and family at AC4C for EVERYTHING they have helped me through. From EVERY item of adorable preemie clothing and cloth diapers to the cards and moral support we received as a family when we didn't know if Ashley was going to survive the night. YOU GUYS REALLY SAW US THROUGH!

So Now I present ASHLEY RENEE JENKINS! Photo taken TODAY at all of 5lbs 1oz!

What Was In My Yard ALL Weekend!

2006-07-23T18:37:00.000-05:00

Jeff decided to replace our AC unit (he owns his own HV/AC business) and THIS is what ripping out all the AC Guts out from underneath the house looks like! See the black blob? Looks like intestines doesn't it? LOL- that WAS the duct work we had, all flex duct! Now we have 90% hard duct!LOL

It took 2 full days of NO AC and 94 degrees inside but it should work a hell of a lot better now. He put in the top-of-the-line unit! Plus we went from a 2 1/2 ton until to a 3 ton. We will see if I still get damn hot when cooking dinner at night!

My KAL for Mid-July!

2006-07-22T08:37:00.000-05:00

Here is my Mid-July KAL cloth- the Lacy Mock Cable cloth. I enjoyed it VERY much! It is nice to have a FO quickly sometimes. I cannot wait until the next one!

See.....I DO Knit!

2006-07-07T06:22:00.000-05:00

Here we are! The socks I am working on in Sock-It-To-Me yarn from www.Elann.com!
These will be for a Yule Gift for someone! After these, I plan on knitting up something special for Samhain!

Pic of my Daughter's Formal!

2006-07-05T22:48:00.000-05:00

Well, here it is! It FINALLY came in the mail today! Kirstey's formal photo (with Colin).

UPDATE and Flower Basket Shawl!

2006-06-29T21:35:00.000-05:00

OK, OK, believe me, life has thrown me and my family a few curves lately. I will elaborate more when my Dear Hubby feel comfortable with me sharing it with the owrld BUT..... One hint! We have had a new addition to the family (VERY UNEXPECTEDLY on June 2nd) BUT you will have to wait a few weeks til the introduction (to apease Jeff.

On the knitting front... with everything going on I have a BAD case of startitus! I have RARELY been home (only to sleep-hint-hint) and have to take small projects with me---just incase. (OHHHHHH I wish I could TELL YOU). But, I did manage to get a good start on a FBS!

2006-06-20T07:51:00.000-05:00

You Are A: Kitten!

Cute as can be, kittens are playful, mischevious, and ever-curious. Your mischevious side is part of what makes you a kitten, as is your dislike of getting wet! Kittens are often loving, but are known to scratch or bite when annoyed. These adorable animals are the most popular pets in the United States--37% of American households have at least one cat. Whether it is your gentle purr or your disarming appearance, you make a wonderful kitten.

You were almost a: Monkey or a Bear Cub
You are least like a: Lamb or a Duckling What Cute Animal Are You?

Finally 1/2 of a FO!

2006-06-18T09:40:00.000-05:00

Finally Half of a FO to report! 1 sock! LOL
Using Opal Magic in pick here she is:

The Birthday Party!

2006-06-13T09:09:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some pictures of Summer's (my 12 yr old) Bithday Party!

The Cake Before

The Cake After

The Birthday Girl!

In a knitting RUTT! And pics!

2006-05-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

OK, OK.. this is the first time this has EVER happened to me! I am offically in a knitting RUTT! NOTHING excites me to knit! Absolutely NOTHING! Sure, I have the lone sock waiting in thw wings for completion! And my Trivoli,well, she is up to the increases for the hips and stalled! Maybe it is this HOT ass weather, maybe it is lack-of flattering patterns for the curvy girls (they must be free, budget you know). But, beside knitting for Charity, nothing is going on and I am getting BORED with those items!
Has anyone else had this happen and if so, what did you do??? Instead of knitting I have been painting my daughter Summer's bedroom PINK shades! See........

Jeff purchased me a new NEW DIDGITAL CAMERA! So I have quite a few pics to share of just things in my life- in general. None of the below pic will have ANYTHING to do with knitting, BUT they do bring me happiness and beauty EVEN during my most stressfull times. Some are flowers blooming in my garden but I have NO IDEA of what they are... if you know, PLEASE inlighten me! The other pics are of my beautiful children OR of my animal children.

Enjoy!

KIRA- my "BABY GIRL" of 10 months old! Honestly, she ia a HANDFUL but, I LOVE HER SO MUCH!

FELIX! My baby "BIG-BOY" He Loves me no matter what!

NOW for some of my "questionable" plants!

Baby Items GALORE!

2006-05-26T23:55:00.000-05:00

FIRST and FOREMOST I would like to wish every female a belated HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! I HARDLY ever get to be on-line long enough to post a detailed post (or not at all) here living in hickville, NC. And lets NOT talk about living with 2 BOY KRAZI teenage girls fighting with my on-line time! LOL

OKay- onto another subject so I do not start ranting! LOL! Kirstey is working on her 2nd boyfriend in three weeks! The formals are one week from today and I HAVE to share in here pic in her gown (remember guys, she is all of 13 years old!)

Also, On the KNITTING front( which keeps me SANE) Are some Preemie items I have completed! Please let me know what you think (the model is the doll I received for Mother's Day- a 15inch preemie doll)!

I'm BAAACCKKKK!

2006-05-08T06:49:00.000-05:00

OMG! It has been SOOOOO long since I have been able to post! This damn computer decided to crash at the WORST time! BUt, I have it back up and running now so a BIG update it needed.

First with my knitting:
I am concentrating on charity knitting at the moment for AC4C (an on-line charity group). Making lots of baby items! Ponchos, dresses, little bell-bottomed pants && shirt sets, etc....

I am also knitting for my best friend who just found out she is expecting a daughter in October! She is going to be dressed from head to toe in hand knit items!

My Kids:
Kirstey is doing a lot better and is getting ready for her Jr High formal dance! It is hard to believe she will be in High School next year! Her meed swings and suicidal thoughts have stopped. Now we are dealing with the typical teen-age drama-LOL!

Summer has grown 3 inches in the past 2 months and is now my height at 11! She also tried out for modeling and was excepted! Now her head is 4 times the size it should be and all-of-the-sudden she HAS to HAVE designer clothes! LOL.

Michael FINALLY got his learner's permit (at almost 21). He still hasn't found a job but is doing a lot better on his depression.

My Health:
I have been back to the Dr a couple of times for female problems. After checking my thyroid and ultrasounds, we found that the problems were coming from STRESS and not my PCOS!

I have stuck to my low-carb diet and have lost 43lbs since Februrary 28th! I seem to have stopped for now but that is OK, it will start back within a month or so.

Well, time to get going for today! It is GREAT to be back!

Changing My Life!

2006-02-26T19:38:00.000-05:00

Well, Dr. V. said that I DEFINATELY have PCOS! I thought for sure he would put me on hormone therapy but, he prescribed a low-carb diet instead! So, since Monday I have had NO sugar, white bread, flour products, rice, pasta or potatoes! I am really getting drained though. But, I am sure my body will adjust (oh Goddess please let this be temporary).

I was slightly depressed at having to change my whole way of eating and I CO the Bamboo Ballerina Tank in Saphire blue! I completed the back today! I am making a size 36 even though I wear a 40 hoping to fit into it in a few months! I figure that if I knit a smaller size it will give me initiative to stick with the plan! LOL I just hope I don't loose so much weight it becomes too big (but would that really be so bad? I COULD re-knit it couldn't I)? LOL

My Olympic Knitting is complete and I will reveal what it is tomorrow! And, as soon as I check my notes I will post the pic along with the pattern for free to my blog readers!

So, I hope you don't mind if I include my progress with my low-carb diet and weight-loss along with my knitting! Please, drop me a line and let me know what you think about adding it as a regular topic on my blog.

Knitterz Hugz
Lora J
AKA The Krazi Knitter

Starting weight-189/ present weight- 183/ goal weight- 110 to 115!

A NEW CAR!

2006-02-20T22:40:00.000-05:00

Well, after the VW Passat stayed in the shop all last week we picked it up on Saturday. They said the transmission was fixed. Come Sunday afternoon it was doing the same thing-stuck in third gear! $300 down the drain! So, my Dear Hubby Jeff decided that was ENOUGH! He went out an bought me a new Nissan Maxima tonight! Now, aint that the sweetest thing in the world? As soon as I get new batteries for the camera I will post some pics!

My oldest daughter got her heart broke for the first time today. Her boyfriend broke up with her and she is devistated. Honestly, I am feeling bad because I think it is for the best and HOPE they do NOT get back together! We hadn't had any trouble with her UNTIL she met this boy- now she is in therapy! She has been crying all day and wouldn't eat until about 7pm. But now she is in her room playing her guitar, came out to see the new car and ACTUALLY got excited about it! So, maybe she will be OK. I just hate her hurting and not being able to make it go away!

Now to the knitting! With everything going on (how many times have I written that lately?) I put down my Olympic knitting for something easier today. I completed the baby sweater for my Best Friend , added buttons, weaved in the ends and made a pair of matching booties. I hope to start a matching hat tomorrow while at the doctor's (my first visit to treat my PCOS. I just KNOW that they are going to put me on some type or hormone therapy and I am not looking forward to it. BUT, it WILL fix my drastic weight gain problem that has been caused by the PCOS (I have gained 50 lbs in a year even though I go 3 miles a day on my eliptical machine and eat VERY healthy).

Well, we will see! And don't forget to check back after te Olympics for my pattern to be posted!

G'nite!

Knitting Woes!

2006-02-18T20:44:00.000-05:00

OK, So, I started a Soleil for my Olympic Knitting and got all the way to the seperation for the v-neck and realized that my stitch count was WAY off! I am SO frustrated that I have officially put it dpwn until my nerves can handle tinking/frogging back until the count is right.

So, along with working on my socks I CO a baby sweater (I just found out my best-friend is expecting her 2nd child, she is 5 weeks along). This is a ragland pattern I have never used before and it is going great! I wish we knew what sex the new addition is ging to be! But, since it is WAY to early to find out the new sweater is a combination of yellow, mint green and white. CONGRATS KIMMY! Another Baby to call me "Mommy Lora"!(LONG story attached to that) LOL

Also, I have just rejoined a FAVORITE knitting group All Crafts 4 Charity! How I have missed knitting for the group! Next month's charity is Afghans for Afghanistan! So, I expect to be working on either 12" squares, hats, socks or vests next month! HEY MY AC4C FAMILY! (WAVING!)

Now, about my self-disigned socks for the Knitting Olympics! They are comming out GREAT! But..... I am going to keep photos and details a secret until after the Olympics! Then I will post the pattern along with photos! I hope you will enjoy the pattern! I am definately enjoying working/ designing them as I go! Here is a hint though...... the DEFINATELY are for SOLID colored yarns!

Well, folks, the Wine is hitting me so, onto more Tipsy knitting and desinging! All while the snow falls outside (and to think it was 68 degrees two days ago here)!

Update on My Knitting Olympics Choice

2006-02-09T11:33:00.001-05:00

After reviewing the Knitting Olympics rules again I saw that we cannot CO the project until the torch is lit so, my Jaywalker socks are definately out. So, I believe I am going to start another pair tommorow for the Olympics.

This pair I believe I will be designing myself. So, wish me luck! After the Olympics, if my design works out, I will be posting the pattern here along with a photo!

On the FBS front, I am on my LAST repeat of the main pattern and next are the bordering rows! WOO HOO! My first BIG lace project is almost complete!

OK- I know, Ive GOT to be Krazi!

2006-02-08T08:17:00.000-05:00

LOL- The above title says it all! I frogged the Rainbow Ripple sock even though I had already gotten past the gusset! The pattern just wasn't right for the colorway! Instead I am knitting the Jaywalkers ( http://magknits.com/Sept05/patterns/jaywalker.htm ) in the Opal Magic Pink colorway. So far it looks great!

Also, along with the Knitting Olympic I jave joined in with The Keyboard Biologist ( http://www.keyboardbiologist.net/knitblog/ ) with her Family Sock Challenge! So, for now the sock are serving two purposed! I am going to use them as my Olympic knitting and for the sock challenge!

I am still plugging along on the Flower Basket Shawl. I think this will be a gift for someone for the next Yule. The color is just not right for me (I am not a brown person) even though I could wear it during my Earth rituals! Hmmmmm, now I am thinking of a whole new side of knitting! Sabbat knitting, Element knitting, ritualistically knitting.... oh no! Man are the creative ideas flowing! I will post more about this later as I make sense of it all-LOL

On my health front: Well, I finally found out what the crap has been causing all of my problems! Two things!

1. I have elevated LH hormone levels which is a tell-tale sight of PCOS. That explains my female troubles and my drastic weight gain over the past few months! Well, at least I now know it isn't me! So, hormone therapy should manage it all and I should loose the weight as the hormone levels regulate!

2. Also, as for my heart. I have what they call "aortic regurgitation" which means that the valve that is located between my heart and my aorta doesn't close all the way and some of the blood is flowing back into my heart. Nothing they can do and it is not life-threatening! But, it IS what is causing my water retention!

OK- at 35 I am WAY to young to be having these problems but both things can be managed and treated! So, I am very happy and feeling very lucky ;o) THANK YOU GODDESS!

Knitting Away Today!

2006-02-06T23:29:00.000-05:00

Well, last night I finished my Opal Dreamcatcher socks! I can not wait to share a pic! Then, this morning I started some Opal Magic socks (the pink colorway)using the Rainbow Ripples pattern. I am already past the gusset decreases on the first one! I am using the called for 60 sts instead of my usual 64 and believe it or not, that little 4 sts per round makes a HUGE difference on the speed! I just tried them on to make sure that they aren't too tight and they actually fit better! So, maybe I will use 60 sts from now on ;o)

I am still plugging away on the FBS! Being my first knit shawl I did not realize how S-L-O-W the last couple of pattern repeats would be! But I estimate that I will have it completed within the week.

I am contemplating knitting the Jaywalker socks for 2006 Knitting Olympics. I have plenty of self-striping sock yarns! I am just so very tired of knitting my plain Jane pattern. Anyone have any suggestions on the Jaywalkers?

I Started the Flower Basket Shawl!

2006-02-01T18:18:00.000-05:00

After hearing so much about it on various groups I finally took the plunge and started the FBS! I am using some brown tweedy fingering weight yarn (acrylic) that I found in my stash. I figure that it wouldn't hurt to use this for my first BIG lace project. If everything goes well, I have some eggplant colored laceweight wool I have been hoarding for something special and I can make a second ;o)

So far I am up to 4 repeats of the 10 row pattern, you need 7 repeats total for the size that the pattern calls for but I think I am going to add another 2 or 3 repeats to make it longer.

Kirstey had her first therapy appointment last night and I think it went well despite the face that she threw a HUGE tantrum before we left-yelling, screaming, slamming doors and breaking her mirror. After she spoke with her therapist she came out with a smile on her face! I hope that is a good sign. We have to visit once a week for now, we will see how it goes.

I went for the ultrasound on my heart today. It was SO KEWL! You could see everything! Even the blood flow through your aorta! Did you know that if you sniff your aorta constricts if your blood pressure is normal? Yep- saw it for myself! LOL
Now I just have to wait to see if they find anything that is causing my sever water retention. In a way I hope that they do so I would at least know what is going on, but then again I hope that they find nothing.

Keep those needles clicking Knitterz!

Please forgive me for no knitting content- BUT LIFE SUCKS!

2006-01-31T10:18:00.000-05:00

Well, life SUCKS EGGS right now! I have been going back and forth to Drs. Trying to figure out what the fuck has been going on with me! And what else but MORE Dr apointments! Now an ultrasound on my heart (the Dr heard something in the upper left of my chest). She says that it is probably nothing but it may explain why I am swelling all over my body with water! GREAT!

On top of that I have to go to the OB/GYN for more female tests! She thinks I am in the beginning phases of PCO! SURPRISED????? No, not me! My older sister Frankie was found to have it YEARS ago and that would explain me gaining 40lbs in 5 months even though I exercise (3 miles a day on my eliptical)and watch what I eat VERY carefully!

Then this past Thursday I saw marks on Kirstey's arms again. She has been cutting herself with scissors! That was IT! Th child needs help! So, Friday off we went to have her evaluated and we go to her first therapy appointment tonight. I am worried sick! I have been having nightmares of her funeral since Thursday!

I haven't been able to knit much, just a few rows on my socks or my Picovoli now and then. So, not much to report on the knitting front, sorry. But I DID gift my friend Cheri with the Opal Tropical Fish socks last night and she was delighted! So that did brighten up my week!

2006-01-21T22:58:00.000-05:00

Your Birthdate: November 7

You are an island. You don't need anyone else to make you happy.
And though you see yourself as a loner, people are drawn to you.
Deep and sensitive, you tend to impress others with your insights.
You also tend to be psychic - so listen to that inner voice!

Your strength: Your self sufficiency

Your weakness: You despise authority

Your power color: Maroon

Your power symbol: Hammer

Your power month: July

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Still Knitting!

2006-01-20T16:45:00.000-05:00

I'm still knitting guys! I know I haven't posted much lately but I am still here! I am dealing with some health issues so I don't get to get on-line as much as I want to.
I am past the waist decreases on my Picovoli! I am not sure if I like this yarn though (see below pic of me knitting with it). I am using Endless Summer Collection Connemara from Elann.com in the lilac color and have found that the yarn goes "thin" in some spots and it IS showing on my sweater! I am not sure of what to do to fix the problem so this will be a casual- wear-at-home top.
I also finished a pair of socks for my friend Cheri! ( She was VERY dissapointed that she didn't receive a pair for Christmas even though I DID knit her a Trivoli and a scarf). These are just a basic sock pattern in Opal Rainforest collection Tropical Fish colorway. I have also started a new pair (for myself I hope) in the new Dreamcatchers collection.

Until then, Knitterz Hugz!

Meet the REST of My Animal Family!

2006-01-08T21:40:00.000-05:00

Here she is! The Baby Kira! I know, she looks so sweet and innocent at all of 5 months of age BUT- she is Hell-On-Paws! LOL

I cannot get out of her sight for an instant without her whining and crying! And Goddess forbid one of the cats walk by while she is out of her crate! She LOVES to chase them and to slide across the hardwoods! LOL

But Goddess do I adore her ;o)

Say hello to the Alpha female in the house! This is Sabrina! Let me tell you, she is one very special girl! We found her about 7 years ago up a tree in our front yard. She was abandoned and trying to get away from our Pitt Bull.

After taking her in, we found her to be pregnant. She had her litter early and all but 1 kitten died (Little-Bit below) who I had to keep on a heating pad and supliment feed. After we took her to the vet we found out she is FIV positive! Well, she is now a fat and happy 13 years old! And does she run the house! LOL

This is Sabrina's Kitten Little-Bit! SHe is the resident "Miss-Priss"! Honestly, she will not even play with a cat-nip toy! And Goddess forbid you try to touch her if she isn't in the mood to be touched! LOL

And last but not least the PSYCHO KITTIE Mysti! LOL! She is truely a cat with personality disorders! We found Mysti 6+ years ago abandoned at around 8 weeks old. Now, she will rub up against you one moment and then claw you to death the next! LOL

So now you have met my whole animla family! We NEVER have a dull moment in this house LOL!

See I DO Knit!

2006-01-07T19:25:00.000-05:00

Here I am! OK, OK ignore the BAD hair and NO make-up, but lookie lookie! I am working on my Picovoli by Grumperina (http://www.magknits.com/Aug05/picovoli.htm)! So, here is PROOF that I DO knit -LOL Can you see the kittie next to my shoulder? THeat is Little-Bit in her Favorite spot! LOL

Finally A Pet Pic!

2006-01-05T13:32:00.000-05:00

After all of the talking about my kitties and the puppy, I can finally post photos of 2 of them! Kirstey got a digital camera for Christmas and snapped the below pics before her batteries went dead ;o)

This is Rupert in his FAVORITE sleeping position on the Chase Lounge!

And here is the Baby Felix watching the birds outside of the diningroom window!

BOTH of the above kitties were found abandoned at birth, 10 weeks apart. I bottled fed and have raised them and they really are like my children!

Also, Jookie at what I just joined!

!@****! Computer!

2006-01-03T22:23:00.000-05:00

Well, the title says it ALL! A few weeks ago all of the sudden my fu***ng computer wouldn't allow me to get on-line with ANY ISP (I have two) or the Internt Explorer! So, I called the cable company. After 3 hours on the phone with them they said that it was a corrupt file that ran my modem and to call Dell. So....... I called Dell!
No help there! They wanted to charge me just to SPEAK to a technician! Damn, we BOUGHT the computer so why should we PAY for customer sevrvice???? Needless to say I will NEVER AGAIN buy a Dell computer!

So, I was in search of a copy of Windows XP Home. After making a few phone calls I found out it was $200.00! And at Christmas, and the septic tank needing servicing (another story) we just didn't have that kind of extra money! After making MORE phone calls, EVERYONE said they HAD a copy I could use! Of course NO ONE could find theirs!

Finally my Dad offered a copy of Windows XP Professional still factory sealed! ( Can I say how much I ADORE my Dad)! He brought it over Sunday (he lives in Virgina and we live in NC) and I installed it this morning after backing up a few important files I couldn't loose.

After doing the install and walking through all the steps to set it up (which took 2 hours) I tried to get on-line and what do you think happened???? THE SAME DAMN THING! I had to wait to call the cable company cause I was beyond PISSED! I spoke to another technician and she found the REAL problem! The driver was uninstalled! Well, I could either call Dell and get a disk (NOT) or they would send me one for free! It should be here this Friday!

After thinking and thinking I realized that I have a disc for the drivers in the Windows XP Home format, what would it hurt to try?? So, I installed the drivers from that disc and made a few modifications int eh programming. Waa-laaaa! I was back on-line!

Well, for about 20 minutes! Once I installed my Norton's Anitivirus it wouldn't let me on-line again! Man was I CUSSING! Good thing the girls we at school! LOL. So, I uninstalled Norton's and was again able to get on-line!
So, I just downloaded an Anitivirus, Firewall, Spam Blocker , etc that my ISP offered. Now I am off and running!

But, I lost EVERYHTING I had saved over the past 2 years! I did back up Jeff's resume , some pictures, etccc. But, I lost all of my pattern i had collected over the years along with my Paint Shop Pro.

Lesson Learned? ALWAYS back up ANYTHING you do not want to loose!

Am I Krazi?

2005-12-13T23:04:00.000-05:00

OK, OK, it has gotten to me slightly. The thought of knitting an item as a gift BEFORE Christmas and actually finishing it in time.

After reading everyone else's lists of insanities, I am thinking "Destiny COULD use a cute pair of girlie mittens", "Cheri WOULD like a pair of slippers", and this would be the first year that I did NOT knit my Mother a pair of socks as a gift and she ASKS for them EVERY year! After all, these are ALL small projects --and I already have socks on the needles (in the Opal Rainforest- Tropical Fish Colorway), I have everything I would need in my stash anyway so NO shopping. AM I KRAZI?

Well, that remains to be seen-LOL. But IF I finish those Opal's before Christmas then they will become a gift for my Mother. I MAY cast-on a pair of CHUNKY, QUICK slippers for Cheri, and Destiny JUST received a pair of pink and purple striped socks LESS than a month ago- and wouldn't a 6 yr old rather receive a toy of some sort?

Let's see if I can go this year WITHOUT knitting one gift! (Does the dove-grey alpaca shawl I finished in September for my Father's wife count? After all, it WAS completed MONTHS ago?

I Spent My Anniversary $$$!

2005-12-06T22:22:00.000-05:00

Well, after thinking & searching the web for ideas I finally spent my $$$$! I treated myself and spent it all at www.elann.com ! Below is a list of what will be arriving shortly!

Den-M-Nit Pure Indigo Cotton in Dark Indigo (9 skeins)
Den-M-Nit Pure Indigo Cotton in Mid Indigo (10 skeins)
Endless Summer Collection Connemara in French Lilac (9 skeins)
Endless Summer Collection Luna in Moonstone (9 skeins)
Endless Summer Collection Luna In Lapis (9 skeins)
At Knits End: Meditations For Women Who Knit To Much book by The Yarn Harlot
Yarn Harlot book -again by The Yarn Harlot
200 Knitted Blocks
Knitting Patter-A-Day Calendar 2006

I fugure I ordered enough yarn for 3 Summer sweaters (maybe more) and 2 Winter sweaters for next year's Long Term Projects. Or, I could make a nice shawl out of the Moonstone colorway (I LOVE that color).

Now I cannot wait for it all to arrive so I can touch it all ;o)

I have a TERRIFIC Hubby!

2005-12-01T21:21:00.000-05:00

OK, let me explain the header! My Hubby Jeff and I will be celebrating our 12th wedding anniversary this coming Sunday (on the 4th). He really has a hard time buying for me since he has bought me just about EVERYHTING I have asked for over the past 6 months- including a new home with all new furniture, cookware, dishes, etc......
Well, he asked me if it would be OK to give me cash and let me buy whatever I want! Would it be OK??? Hell Yeah! So, I asked him the $ amount he had in mind.... he said "oh, a few HUNDRED dollars." Woo-Hooooo! I am SOOOO Spoiled!
Now I have a problem! I have practically everything I want so....... what to buy? I can ALWAYS add to my stash, needles, or collection of patterns. I can also use a good heavey-duty stand mixer (but I do have a brand new hand mixer). I could also blow it all on cloths just as easily as stash enhancement. So, what to do, what to do! HELP!!!!! Any suggestions on how to blow a few hundered dollars on myself?????

LIFE is driving me KRAZI!

2005-11-29T22:42:00.000-05:00

OK, I know, not a flashy title! But, it really is what is going on! Between dealing with the hyper-puppy-from-hell, two daughters in differnent stages of puberty, and a husband starting his own business and working 90+ hours a week, I am lucky I am still able to type a sentence! LOL

Kira is now 40+lbs, 4 months old and starting to become VERY aggressive towards strangers. We took het to be spayed last Friday hoping that besides keeping her safe from males, it will calm her little ass down some! She really is a good puppy other that bgeing so hyper! She hasn't chewed anything up besides her toys (they pup has her OWN toy box), she LOVES us all and listens to commands 75% of the time. She just has NO manners at all when it comes to meeting someone! Either she is all-over them trying to lick every inch of their exposed skin, or she is barring her teeth, growling, hair stainding up! The funny thing is, it seems that she can differ between who he is suppose to be nice to and who not to! LOL Also, we got a basket for all of her toys ( she gets a new toy EVERY time she makes a vet trip), and what did she start doing on her own? She actually puts the toy away that she is playing with before she gets another toy! How smart is that?

Kirstey has hit the WORSE phase of puberty! The "My life is over if you say no to one thing" phase! LOL HOW many times I have heard that phase and the "I HATE you" phase over the past few weeks! I keep telling myself it will pass, it WILL pass! Then I remember that Summer is just 2 years behind her!

Speaking of Summer, my baby has her FIRST boyfriend! She proudly came home today announcing that she has a boyfriend named Van! My BABY! I am NOT ready for her to grow up! Of course then Kirstey HAD to say how gross Van was and than he was a "weirdo"! LOL Man does that bring back memories of me and my sisters at their ages!

Jeff is starting his own HV/AC-Refrigeration business! He has been working his regular 40 hours with his day job and then another 50+ hours weekly building his business. We never see him anymore.The girls have made comments so I asked him to take 1 day off each week and make it a FAMILY day. The girl's need to have a strong relationship with him at their ages. So we are making it a priority to spend all day Sundays as a family (besides the girl's Church time).
But, it does leave me alone with the girls most of the time which CAN and DOES wear on my nerves!

On the knitting front, Summer has asked for a shrug with flared sleeves! Now to find a pattern! I am still plugging along with my Opal Tiger socks, and have started and completed a "One-Skein-Wonder" (Glampyre.com). I have so much stash and no inspiration lately! HELP! ANY IDEAS?

NOT TIME Lately!

2005-11-17T00:23:00.000-05:00

HEY EVEYONE!

OMG! It has be SOOOOO long since I have been able to post! We have officially changed ISPs and hopefully there will be NO MORE time where I cannot get on-line! We changed from EarthLink (Via our phone Co.) to Road Runner (via our Cable Co.), we WILL see if it perferms any better!

During my no ISP time I started and completed a Banff (from knitty.com) in Lion Brand Jiffy that I had left over from my Noro Butterfly. I have some how gotten in a knitting rut since then. Hopefully it is just our freaky weather that is the problem 70+ daily here up until now. But, it is suppose to drop to the 50s tommorrow!

WAIT til youn see our baby Kira! She is now 4 months old and weighs 35+lbs.! LOVE you guys, PLEASE add comments if you read this OK?

HUGGERZ
LORA

A Little Fun!

2005-10-17T09:48:00.000-05:00

Your Hair Should Be Purple

Intense, thoughtful, and unconventional.

You're always philosophizing and inspiring others with your insights.

What's Your Funky Inner Hair Color?

GLAD to be BACK!

2005-10-10T23:00:00.000-05:00

OMG! I am SOOOO sorry it has been so long since my last post!

Besides, dealing with the new addition to our family (our pup Kira), our computer crashed! ARGGGG! I have been having on-line withdrawl! So, I think a quick update is in order!

On the knitting front I haven't gotten a lot finished over the past month. Just a couple of pair of socks! One in the new Opal LadyBug colorway and one in another brand 9Sock-It-To- Me brand). I have started MANY projects lately but, none have kept my attention for very long. As of today I have a Trivoli and a Harolette poncho both on the needles along with some Opal Socks in the new Tiger colorway going.

Also, on the pup-Kira, I am having a TIME! She is doing well in the hose-breaking unless I get out of her sight. She is sleeping through the night and she really is very sweet. BUT, she is SO attached to me that I cannot leave her sight without her whining and throwing a FIT! She also does NOT like Jeff kissing me at all. She was 12 weeks old on Saturday and is now a full 20 pounds!

I will update more tomorrow when I am not tired and full of chardonnay! LOL

GLAD to be BACK!

Lora

New Addition To Our Family!

2005-09-01T10:40:00.000-05:00

I know, I know it has been ages since I posted last. BAD BLOGGER (slapping my own hand).

With the girls starting school, a housewarming party and Kirstey's birthday party all within 2 weeks I have been pretty busy with not a lot of knitting time.
I did manage to finish my Noro Butterfly! I wish I could post a pic! She is beautiful (even though I couldn't afford the Noro yarn and used a cheaper Lion Brand Jiff in the Denver colorway).

We will also be adding a new addition to the family this weekend! We have decided to get a new puppy! She is a White German Shepherd, born on July 16th and her name is Kira! Now to the whole puppy training thing again! Housebreaking, obedience training, etc.... THAT is what I am NOT looking forward to! It has been 7 years since I had to worry about those things and honestly, Cinder had us spoiled as much as we had her spoiled! LOL

Kira happens to be the runt of the litter. We went over last night not sure if we wanted a male or a female (there were 10 pups to choose from). But, this little girl jumped up in my lap, was licking my face and wagging her tail as fast & hard as she could. She wasn't jumping up or nipping like the others. She just sat in my lap as calm as could be. Right how her ears are bigger than she is but they stand perfectly straight. She weighs all of 6lbs!

HERE SHE IS! Sorry for the poor quality of the pics!

Kira's Coming Out!

Pic of Kira # 2! Sorry for the poor quality!

Stash Enhancement & Storage!

2005-08-20T23:50:00.000-05:00

Well, I FINALLY was able to go through my stash and fill my cabinet after the move. I honestly thought that the one cabinet (7 feet tall by 3.5 feet wide) would be plenty of storage! Boy was I wrong! It is now overfull and I still have 2 BIG rubbermaid totes full of yarn & 2 boxes! Plus I hid all of my sock yarn in my night stand. LOL I guess we should go retrieve the other 2 cabinets from our trailer!LOL

Also, Jeff bought some new toys for his garage so..... I was able to purchase the WHOLE collection of the Opal Rainforest yarn! WOOO HOOOOOOOOOO! I purchased one of each colorway and another of the new Tiger, the Lady Bug and the Flamingo before they are impossible to find! Of course the first skein will be for knitting and the second for stashing ;o) Am I Loved or what?????????

We have now been in our new home for 22 days. We are settled and comfortable. I miss my feral cat colony something fierce! After taking care of them for 12 years I do not know what to do with my free time. Jeff goes by the trailor every Wednesday and two women who work with Paw Prints feed on alternating days. I haven't had the heart to visit them yet.

Jeff is now talking of getting a new German Shepherd Pup. I am not sure if I am ready yet. Cinder hasn't even been gone for two months yet and I miss her terribly. Watching the neighbors with their Shephers doesn't make it any easier (there are at least 5 Shephers in our neighborhood alone)! We are going to get another one- just now sure when. I am leaning towards a male this time and definately would prefer a black and tan or sable. We will wait and see.

Well, time for another glass of Chardonnay and more sock knitting !

Knitterz Hugz to EVERYONE!

I'm BACK!!!!!!!

2005-08-11T21:06:00.000-05:00

Well,
After almost 2 week off-line we are moved and I am back on-line! I must say that the move went a lot smoother that I imagined. Mostly took two days. We are all unpacked and settled! I haven't gotten much of anything on the walls yet as far as decorating-but all of the furniture is in place and the boxes are all unpacked.
I must say that I LOVE MY HOUSE! LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT!

One thing I learned in the process....do NOT attempt knitting lace whaile moving! LMAO! Needless to say, I completely messed up my Kiri shawl during the move! I had to frog the whole thing! Which is OK since I found an even better suited yarn in my stash ;o)! So, tomorrow I will Co the Kiri AGAIN!

Well, I will write more tomorrow when I am not so tipsy from the white wine!

G'nite all!

Life Has Hit Again!

2005-07-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

I know, I know, I am SO negative! But, life has it AGAIN! Last Thursday my baby kittie Felix wasn't acting himself. I mean, he actually let me brush his stomach for over 30 minutes before he had enough! But, I really didn't think much of it...maybe he was learning to love the brush.
Then on Friday he wasn't eating and had a upset stomach (not going to go into details and gross you out). OK I thought, he ate something that didn't agree with him. Maybe I souldn't let he eat bananas, apples, cantaloupe, olives or chardonnay.(Not all at once of course).
Then Saturday he just didn't look right. I called our vet and told him what was going on. He wanted me to bring him in but Jeff was already gone to work for the day. I told him that I would watch him and see what happens. That if he wasn't any better by Monday I would bring him in.
By Monday he was worse. I had to carry him to the litter box, had to bring him water (he would drink though), he still would not eat and he felt warmer than he should. So- off to the vet we went. He had lost 4 POUNDS in 4 DAYS! He had a temperature of 107! He was staying the night! OK, I can handle this I told myself. He is going to be OK. This cannot happen again- not after loosing Ella, Emma and Cinder all within the last 3 weeks! Surely I wouldn't lose another member of my animal family! Life can't be THAT cruel!
ALL day yesterday I was calling the vet. At 9:30 am his temperature was down to 103 and he had eaten 1/4 can of cat food. Still, none of the tests were in yet. By 2 pm some of the tests were back and the x-rays were done. No intestinal blockage, all of his numbers were looking good so far. Now to wait for the FINAL testing to be finished. At 5 I called back and got the news- he has an infection somewhere (probably either his stomach or intestines) and his is going to be fine!
I called again first thing this morning and his temperature is within the normal ranges. He finally used the litter box and they are removing the IV to see how he does without the cool fluids. If he doesn't develop a fever again he gets to come home today!!!! Of course he will have some meds to take at home (amoxicilian) and be on a bland diet. I also have to keep him seperated from our other 4 kitties until his is back to his old self.
Needless to say I haven't been able to knit a thing. Besides the above going on, we are closing on the house this Friday so I have been packing and looking for new furniture. I cannot wait until this is all over so life can get back to normal. AHHHHHH- NORMAL! How I miss Normal! LOL

Recent Knitting Accomplishments!

2005-07-22T15:40:00.000-05:00

Kiri Shawl Up to 7 repeats!

Opal Petticoat. This colorway reminds me of Easter Eggs!

Finally Knitting Again!

2005-07-15T22:42:00.000-05:00

After a week of mourning the loss of my Baby Girl, I am finally up to knitting again. I CO some ankle socks today in Opal Petticoat colorway. It is so beautiful, the colors remind me of Easter for some reason ;o)
We are also still packing for our big move two weeks from today! Tommorrow we shop for furniture. We did get a new dining set but still need a desk, an entertainment center, livingroom set (end tables and all) and beds for the girls. Basically ALL furniture except for our room and the girl's dressers! LOL If only Jeff and I could agree on a style and color for the upholstered pieces in the livingroom! He wants leather (yuck) or blue and I want a woven fabric in a neutral tone. We will see how we can compromise on this one-LOL
It has been hard this past week without Cinder. Things just aren't the same and we miss her SO much. One of our cats (Little-Bit) hid for three days and just meowed all day long. She was the closest to Cinder and it affected her most. Then today Jeff ran over MJ! He was a 10 week old feral kitten (orange tabby) that was tame enough to find a new home next week. I had to bury him myself and all 22 other feral cats sat and watched my bury him. They sat silent until I put the stones on top, then they quietly walked away. Almost like they knew what I was doing. Summer took it hard, she is such an animal lover.
Well, hopefully I will have a picture of my Petticoat anklets to post withing a few days! After the move and we get settled I can FINALLY pick up all of my WIP again! My Soleil, Butterfly, and Lace scarf! Plus a have TONS of baby items that need to get started SOON for upcoming showers! But for now, socks and washcloths are all I dare to attempt! LOL

Nighty-night!

Saying Good-Bye

2005-07-08T21:05:00.000-05:00

WARNING-LONG DEPRESSING POST BELOW!

My baby, Cinder (our 7 yr old German Shepherd), lost her battle with degenerative spine disease today. Over the last week I had noticed a lot of changes in her. She had slowly stopped eating, starting laying around, and developed incontinence. then yesterday she developed a runny stool and refused to drink water. I was hoping it was just something she had eaten. But then she lost 90% of the use of her hind legs and could no longer squat to go potty. This morning at 5 am she had an accident inside, which is definately NOT normal for her. I got up, let her out and cleaned up the mess. At 6:30 am I gave her 1 cup of plain white rice to try to firm up her stool and ease her stomach. Needless to say she only got 1/2 cup down before it all came back up.

At 8 am I put in a call to our vet (who knows us by voice by now) and told him everything that was going on. Well, he told us that it sounded like the spinal deterioration was moving upward and that her digestive organs had stopped functioning (which is common in the later stages of her condition). He said that he was 99% SURE and that she would slowly starve to death over the next few weeks because her body would not receive any nourishment even if she ate.

Jeff and I knew what we HAD to do so I made the appointment for 5pm. Even though I did not want to do it, we put her down. I will miss her more than I can put into words. For the past 7 years she has been my constant companion. We did all daily activities together. All of my children are school age so most of the time it has been Her, I and the cats. There will NEVER be such a loving, caring, protective, funny dog! And talk about smart! There was never anything I asked her to do or learn that she did not accomplish with ease and an attitude of flair!

Most of the day I sat with her and worked on my Trivoli. We snuggled, went for a walk ( what she could do), and just enjoyed being together. My Trivoli will always remind me of her now. Every time I wear it I will remember our last day together, just enjoying each other.

Am I sad? Yes, very. But I am more thankful that I was blessed to know her at all. She was a true gift in every since of the word. I will always remember the love and closeness she gave to me, unconditionally.

So, this post is in memory of the best friend I ever had!
Mystress Von Duke's Cinderella (Cinder)Baby Girl
June 21, 1998-July 8, 2005

What a Week!

2005-07-04T23:50:00.000-05:00

Well, we have been VERY busy packing and going through EVERYTHING in our livingroom, the girl's bedrooms and my stash over the past couple of days. You NEVER know how much junk you have accumilated until you HAVE to go through everything! Jeff took 3 truckloads (a very small truck) of rubbish to the dump over the last 2 days alone! And that doesn't include what we are taking to charity.

I did manage to sort through the bulk of my stash yesterday! MAN, how did I manage to accumilate so much yarn? I have 3 kitchen trash bags filled FULL with yarn to be donated to a goo cause! My Mom is coming over this weekend to sort through t herself.
She is working on a sampler afghan in crochet (greens and creams). I still have my rubbermaid totes to sort through (3 of them), but I had just went through them about 3 months ago. One is definately going to be added to the donate bags-the whole tote full, one holds my wool & silk stash which isn't going anywhere, and the third hold all of my "planned" yarn and sock yarns- mainly my opal collection. I have 2 skeins of the original Tiger colorway and 1 of the new Petticoat colorway stashed away among the 20 other skeins of Opal.

WE are down to 3 weeks and 4 days until the BIG MOVE! Jeff took me out Saturday to purchase a new dining room set and bar stools. We found a terrific deal and put it on lay-a-way for now. We still have to find a new desk, entertainment center, livingroom set and end/coffee tables! Thank the Goddess that we are doing well enough finacially this month to purchase it all without it making a difference in our living expenses. But, poor Jeff has been working himself to death the past 2 weeks. He managed to work 70+ hours on his regular job and 4 "side-jobs" this past week alone. Sometimes I worry about him- he is SUCH a work-a-holic!

Well, it is now after 1 am my time and I have to hit the hay!
Nighty-Night ALL!

A FO! See, I DO Knit!

2005-07-01T13:20:00.000-05:00

Here it is! My FO! See, I do knit-LOL

We Found a HOUSE!

2005-06-25T21:49:00.000-05:00

Finally! After weeks of searching and looking at dozen of homes on-line, and view houses in person, we found our new house! We made an offer last night, they counter-offered, and we counter offered back! We received the call today that they had ACCEPTED our counter offer! Closing date is August 15th!

So here are some pics of our NEW HOME!

The front view!

The Back!

My back yard!

The Living room!

The kitchen!

The dining area!

The Master Bedroom!

I've Bitten Off More Than I Can Chew!

2005-06-24T00:31:00.000-05:00

I don't know if it is the stress of searching for our first house or the HOT temperatures but, I have a BAD case of start-itus! I have so many projects going I cannot keep up with them all and yet, I still start more! Currently I have on the needles:

- 2 pair of sock is various stages.
- 1 washcloth for my cloth exchange.
- the I DO from knitty.com in grey fingering weight.
- Soleil # 2 in fuschia colored Lion Brand Micro Spun- halfway finished.
- The Butterfly -only the collar to finish.
- a lace scarf in the fishetail lace pattern.

Why, oh why do I keep starting new projects? I usually only work on 3 at a time MAX!
And there are MORE I am fighting starting!

We go out again tomorrow to view more houses. Jeff and I are butting heads on what is IMPORTANT in our new home. He will not look at a house without a 2 car garage! Me, I am willing to look at anything (almost) at this point. I promised our daughters that they would not have to change school. We may have to move to a different area to get what we need and want. I hate breaking promises to my children and will NOT unless I have no other choice. For that reason I am willing to compromise to stay in this school district. I will go down to .75 acres and give up on not being in a sub division. Jeff isn't willing to let go of ANYTHING!

We did find a house in the next county with 4 acres of land, a 2 car garage. brick, 3 bedroom & 2 baths with 1700 square feet, was built in 1976. I like the amount of land but don't like that the girls would have to change school district. We will search high and low in this school district first though.

An update on Cinder:
She has now deteriorated to the point where she is having a very hard time walking. She hasn't eaten her food right for the past couple of days. I know it is getting real close to the time when we will have to put her down but, I DON'T WANT TO! I am just thinking of her right now. She is starting to show signs of not being happy and cannot run anylonger. I have a feeling that it will be really soon.

Well, it is 2 am here and I am washed-out so I am turning it for the night.

Ta-Ta!
Lora J in NC

Knittting in the ER!

2005-06-18T22:19:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!
I don't know where to start! It has been a hell-of-a 24 hours! Hell, it has been an eventfully week! FINALLY we are ready & set for the new house! Now only to find the right one! ALL of our bills are offically paid off! The Passat, the Ram, the credit cards, etc... are all paid off! The only monthly bill we have besides living expenses is for Jeff's Harley V-Rod Street Rod he got for Yule. We have gotten pre-qualified for the morgage amount (up to $250,000.00) even though we do NOT want to go no where near that amount! And we are 100% ready to start looking! We meet our Realtor tomorrow to view three homes! Our Realtor is Lynette Palmer of www.untiedhomesraleigh.com and she is a real Goddess send! Please everyone, cross your fingers for us!

Now, onto the fiasco! Jeff went to try to sell his truck yesterday so we could get out from under the monthly payment of $450.00! Well, to make a long story short, he DID succeed and came home with a new truck to boot (paid cash for) but, when he came home he wasn't feeling well. At first we thought that he had gotten into some "red bugs" or 'chiggers" that we have down in the south. But after a hot shower and the benadryl wore off at 9pm, he was broken out in hives, loosing feeling in his hands, and VERY unstable on his feet.Knowing he wAs allergic to red ants and that Summer had seen a cluster at the car dealership, we rushed him to the ER.

We arrived at 10:30pm and they took him back immediately! His hives were so bad by this time that he looked like he had sunburn! After 6 hours at the hosptial we came home. Let me tell you, once they got his IV going and all of his meds in him, he slept like a baby! I, on the other hand, was left sitting on a hard chair, worried to death! Thank the Goddess I thought to pack some cotton yarn and size 8 knitting needles into my purse before we left! While sitting and waiting I started and finished 1 washcloth in Cherry Swirl colorway (GRANNY'S FAVORITE PATTERN) and got halfway finished with another in Summertime Splash colorway and Bee Stitch pattern! I honestly do not knwo what I would have dome without my emergency knitting!

We came home around 4:30 this morning. Jeff still as some hives, but they are slowly going away. He now has some Epi-pens and I am bound and determined to learn how to drive! Because of my fear of driving, we may not have made it to the hospital in time. We had to call some close friends of ours and it tookd an hour and a half to get to the ER. I feel EXTREMELY guilty. I could have lost my Husband last night becasue of my fears. I am bound and determined for this NOT to happen again! Some how, some way, I WILL overcome this fear! If for any other reason, but to save ,my Husband's or Children's lives one day. I prayu to the Goddess that I have the courage to overcome my fear. I HAVE to!

To Cheri & David Cassidy, our friends, our family, that helped up last night. Not only did you rush to our aid, but you took in our girls at a moment's notice. You BOTH have my heart forever! We are more than friends, better than family, we ARE family by CHOICE! If you EVER need anything I am here! Any hour, no questions asked! THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!