Susan Knits

Not Good News!!!

2009-07-23T21:52:00.002-04:00

I got back from Rochester, NY last Monday night. I was so excited to show my DH the pictures that I downloaded in my laptop. My computer crashed and died on me!!!! I was so shocked!! I lost all the pictures from last weeekend event. My DH tried to retrieve the pictures but no luck! I'm going to bring my laptop to work tomorrow and hope someone can rescue my pictures. *sniffling*

Note to myself: Never delete the pictures from my camera till I get the backup copies! Grrrr!!

Yes, I'm pretty upset about that!!!

Recap of my Crazy Crowd Craft gathering will be coming up soon.

Happy Belated Fourth of July!!

2009-07-15T06:37:00.003-04:00

I do hope you have all had a wonderful Fourth of July celebration!!

I really had every intention of writing a post after I got back from a long Fourth of July weekend. But I was so busy making something for the 12th annual CRAZY Crowd Craft gathering. Good thing I started making something last Spring and left them for a while till I finally finished everything last Saturday. 4 same pins, 4 same ornaments and 4 same gifts.

I can not tell you what I made but will definitely show you after I get back from the long CRAZY and FUN weekend!!! It's TODAY that I will be flying to Rochester, New York to join with my CRAZY gang!!! I.really.can't.wait!!!!

Speaking of Anniversary/Fourth of July weekend, my dear hubby and I decided to go a trip somewhere in the west of Pennsylvania by his toy, convertible car. The weather were so perfect that we left our car top down all weekend. I didn't care where we go but I just need to relax and knit something. I spent hours knitting February Lady sweater. It was mindless knitting but I noticed something was little off from the lace and realized that I messed up by knitting twice on same pattern row. If it was not noticeable, I would leave it alone but it was really obvious that the laces were not matched. I frogged 8 rows of laces and started again. I messed up again!! I gave up and put it away till later. I guess my timing/mood was off.

As we drove down the country road, we saw two black bears running across the road in front of us. Geez.. my jaw dropped and wish I had a camera with me but I left it in back of the car trunk knowing that the battery was dead!!! My DH was so disappointed that I was not prepared to get the battery charged. Sorry, DH!!! But I finally got two batteries full charged when we checked in the motel. I missed out taking several pictures of beautiful scenic places.

Oh oh... We saw fireworks in THREE diferent places within an hour and half on Fourth of July.... Well.. I lied!!! We actually watched DC and New York City fireworks through television. The real one came out in the view of our hotel room's window in a small town of Franklin, PA. We were so lucky that we got the best room with perfect view to watch the firework for another 30 minutes.

My world best chauffer did all the driving for the weekend!!!

Dang, I wish I remember the name of this place when we stopped by for lunch. Real beautiful view of this area.

Don't you love to look up at the tree while driving down the road? It relaxes me so much every time I look up at the trees and sky!

Good thing that my DH had sharp eyes seeing something on the road map book on our way back home. We stopped to see Flight 93 National Memorial and Flight 93 Chapel in Shanksville, PA. It was very heartfelt experience for us to visit and pay respect the heroes who were killed in the crash of Flight 93 on September 11th.

We stopped at FLT 93 Chapel (three miles away from the crash site).

We went over to National Memorial after the chapel. There are a lot of crosses, caps, flowers, patches and angels left by many people at the temporary place on hilltop where they can write their thoughts and feelings about the event and for the heroes.

The temporary memorial is created on the hilltop overlooking the crash site (where you could see the flag posted on the fence). Although we are deaf, we could feel the silence and peaceful around the area. It is a right place for quiet reflection and expressions of respect. Definitely, it was powerful feeling.

It was very good weekend for us.

I better get ready for the trip in a few hours. I'm sooooooooooo ready for another long weekend. I will be back next week with news and of course, pictures of the projects we make.

Have a great day...happy knitting!!!

Gosh!!! Where did the 20 years go????

2009-07-01T22:08:00.007-04:00

July 1, 1989

Today is exactly 20 years ago that I married to my BEST friend. He was and is and shall always be my real soulmate, lover and best friend. A toast to TWENTY wonderful years, my love!!! Happy Anniversary, Craig!!! I'm looking forward to our 50th years anniversary!!!!

Here as I promised.....

2009-06-22T19:59:00.011-04:00

I need to update on Ravelry and am trying to remember the password for Flickr. I will figure it out later but will work on details later. I realized that I didn't do good job taking pictures of my projects. I need to redo to post them up in Ravelry this weekend in bright day. So forgive me for lousy pictures.....

So here goes:

Fair Isle Yoke Cardigan (ravelry link)

I need to block it to make it more smooth on buttonlines.

Yarns: Reynolds Whiskey

I finished the pieces last January and didn't seam them up till later in March. I found the right buttons from the antique store two weeks ago.

Everyday Cardigan (ravelry link)

I finally finished it after two years of hiberating!!! I really love the Peace Fleece yarns so much and the color of the sweater. I can't wait to wear it when winter comes.

Pretty pewter buttons.

Fair Isle Sweater (ravelry link)

This was the easiest pattern and took me 9 days to finish it.

I want to use up the yarns that were left in my stash basket for years and I'm so glad that it came out great.

Forest Canopy Shawl - this was my second one. I could not find the pictures of the first one that I made last December.

I made it for my mother's birthday last January.

Close details - isn't that pretty!!! I used Mountain Colors Weaver's Wool yarn.

I have four "hiberating" projects that need to finish but they are either too boring to knit, too hot to knit or to difficult for me to understand/follow the instruction. Eventually, I hope to finish them this year. But only one is Cascade Yarns 220 Wool that I'm eager to work on February Lady sweater. It doesn't bother me knitting it in the car when my DH and I went out for a ride to Mechanicsburg, PA from here all day yesterday. I'm almost finished with the garter stitch part and will going to work on lace part soon.

Happy Knitting!

Back and Much Alive....

2009-06-21T10:24:00.006-04:00

Helloooooo..... ***hand waving****

Wow....I know it's been a while (well...almost 8 months) but time flies too fast for me. I'm doing okay, considering ups and downs since New Year. My DH was laid off on January 31st and still has no luck in finding job ever since. My dad gave me and my mom a real scare when he had quad bypass surgery last April. Good thing that my dad is doing very well. Not only that, my laptop was acting up for a while till last week, it went kaput!! Good thing that my DH is very handyman. He had magic hands to fix it all day and night. He had extra hard drive from his old laptop. It comes back alive and more faster!!!

Anyway, you *might* be wondering what I’ve been up to (that is if you’re still checking, or you could wonder if I change my identity or have completely forgotten about me, considering the 8 months and all…) :) Still just knitting, working, reading, eating and living. It doesn't sound like all that when I write it that way, but I personally want to focus on myself and spend closely with my DH that I really enjoy so much. Death of my sister was the hardest for me to deal with. I still get choked up when I think of my sister. I miss her so much.

I've been reading a lot (lot ...lot...) books since I signed up 52 books in 52 weeks. I read up to 42 books so far. I knitted 3 sweaters, two socks, two scarves and two shawls. Sorry, no pictures yet but I need to find my camera to take some pixs of my latest projects.

I really want to say Happy Father's/Husband's Day to all dads, especially two my favorite men!

My DH, Craig and my Dad!!!!!!

I'm going to look for my camera now. Happy Knitting!!

My Kimbo

2008-10-29T21:42:00.002-04:00

Thank you so much for your kind emails and comments in my blog. My mind is still so blurred as if I'm having in a bad nightmare that I can't wake up. I lost my precious sister, Kim to liver cancer on Oct. 6th. She was 48 years old.

I know I didn't mention in my blog exactly what happened to my sister in last 20 months. My sister had GIST tumors on her stomach, liver and few tiny spots on her lungs. She underwent surgery to remove half of her stomach on March 30, 2007 . Kim had to take Gleevac medicine for life. She was very optimitic and hopeful to keep the liver tumor strunk or stablized.

Fast forward to last May with the bad news. On a follow up visit, it was found that the tumor on her liver grew bigger. The Gleevac medicine didn't work at all and she took different medicines. She suffered with serious side effects and was very sick all summer. She went through another CT scan in last week of August and found out the tumor grew aggressively bigger. The doctors decided to schedule her to have the surgery to remove half of her liver and gall bladder on September 18th. Before the surgery could begin, Kim had a various health related complications. A CT scan indicated that the cancer has spread throughout her liver. The surgery was no longer an option. The doctors would not be able to give a good estimate for how long she could live but the cancer was too aggressive and told us that she will not live within weeks to two months. The news has broken all of our hearts to realize that my sister is not going to be with us forever. In last two days before she passed away, the doctors informed us that the tumor grows so aggressive that cause her right lung collapsed and told us that she will not live within a few days instead of weeks to 2 months. My sister wanted to approach the time she has left with the strength, grace and dignity. It really defines her personality. She died peacefully on Monday morning on October 6th surrounding with my parents, my DH and me.

We had a memorial service in Milwaukee where my family are from on October 18th and another memorial service in deaf school in Boston where my sister taught mathematics high school last Monday. The services were overwhelming beautiful. My sister has touched many of our lives with her intelligence, generosity, patience, talent, wit, humor, and amazing positive outlook on life. Her high school students where my sister taught told us how much my sister impacted and touched their lives by her caring, patience and positive attitudes. She was the most compassionate person I have known. She cared deeply for the students and her friends in her life and it was always apparent in her actions. If the student had a problem, she was eager to lend an eyes and help in any way she could. If the students were sad, she would cheer them when it seemed impossible. She brought joy and happiness to all of our lives. She was a model of compassion and caring. She was a great role model to high school students.

I really miss my sister so much more than I can say . Her spirit is always in our hearts and minds forever. We bless her on her journey and put our trust in the great Light that surrounds her now. She is home and is free from cancer.

I have to move on with the faith of Lord to guide me with all the strengths and happiness I need from now on. We will leave tomorrow morning to Portland, Oregon for the wedding of my brother-in-law this weekend.

More to come later with the knitting news after I get my life back to normal, hopefully real soon.

She is in Peace

2008-10-06T18:21:00.007-04:00

My Angel

Mary Kim Roberts

July 20, 1960 - October 6, 2008

My precious sister died this morning, peacefully.

I am unbearably sad but she is no longer suffering.

Her spirit is in my heart forever.

Cancer SUCKS!!!

2008-09-25T19:50:00.000-04:00

I don't know what to say but my sister's surgery is postponed due to her health complications. I'm with her and my parents.right now. I will be go away from this blogland for a while.

I'm really sad but Knitting and being with my family are my best therapy. Please pray for my sister and my family for the faith and strengths we need.

Saying Prayers

2008-09-16T21:44:00.002-04:00

I think this is the longest I have ever gone without posting....been so preoccupied. My mind is with my sister and want to make a tiny special request from you.

Please pray for my sister. I have mentioned her here before but I didn't elborate her health issue. She is battling with the rare disease for a year and half. Just found out that she is in the hospital right now. She will have another surgery this Thursday. Her illness has been very hard on me because she doesn't deserve to be sick. She is only sister and BEST friend I have. I know it's so strange for me to ask you to say prayer or send healing/positive thoughts about my sister. She needs all the help she can get right now.

I will fly to Boston to be with her and my family next week.

Thank you for reading this.

Two FOs, Two Half FOs and 7 Beading FOs!

2008-08-25T22:09:00.009-04:00

Here are I promise with details of FOs that I have been neglected to share with you in past two weeks.

I completed one sock three weeks ago and have not finished the second one yet.
Pattern: Diagonal Rib Socks
Yarn: Sock It to Me Collection - Essential 4 Ply yarn
Needle: Size 2 - 12" circular

I knitted the cowl on the day we left on the road to Wisconsin on July 30th. Took me all morning to finish it.

Pattern: Gloria Cowl
Yarn: Hand dyed Worsted Wool - 100% Merino Wool . I brought it from one the vendors at the Stitches East last year
Needle: Size 8 - 16" circular

I completed Ravelympics Cowl Jump on August 11th. I started on August 10th - on the day my DH and I were heading back home after two weeks vacation. I spent all afternoon knitting and completed it next day. I really love Malabrigo yarn so much!!!

Pattern: Zigzag Cowl
Yarn: Malabrigo worsted yarn
Needle: Size 8- 16" cicrcular

I
I completed one sock yesterday while watching Olympics Closing Ceremony last night. I lovelovelovelove that yarn so much. Soooo soft!!!

Pattern: Cable Twist Socks
Yarn: Wullenstudio Designer yarn
Needle: Size 3 - 12" circular

Non-Knitting Related FOs....

Ever since I learned how to make bracelets and earring from Sharon at Crazy Crowd Craft gathering last month, I became obessesed making more bracelets. I could not believe that I actually made 7 bracelets and 2 necklaces while watching Olympics men's basketball all afternoon last Saturday.

I brought the beads at Michael's few years ago and brought more beads when they were on big sale few weeks ago. Words of advice...use 40% coupon from every Sunday newspaper if the beads are not on sale. That's how I spend on discount beads.

OH. MY. WORDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My jaw dropped when my worker brought me something from Finland. He went to Finland for two weeks last month. He is very crafty person and could make old "beat-up" chair into very abstract and modern look. He could make anything that look very hip and funky. He knows how much I really love knitting. He tends to buy me some yarns when he was nearby the yarn shop in other states. I begged him not to do that but he did it anyway. He was in the town outside of Finland visiting friends at the farm. He saw all the wools and thought of me. He told me that he could not resist and brought too many wools. He gave me 8 different colors - (four solids and four multi-colors) I have no clue how much he spent on me and I didnt want to know. He was sooooo thoughtful person I ever met. I told him that I know nothing about spinning. I spent all weekend fondling the wool and want to learn how to spin to make yarn. Any recommendation where should I sign up for spinning class? I'm so ready to learn new things!

Happy Monday! Happy Knitting!

Vacation photos!

2008-08-16T21:50:00.103-04:00

Sorry that it's been a week since I posted. I never feel soooooo TIRED due to lack of sleep!! Back to work last Monday was very hard. I ended up working overtimes all week getting ready for new students. Watching Olympics every night is also the blame! I glued to every games, especially Michael Phelps! I'm so happy that he has 8 GOLD medals!

I downloaded all the pictures in my laptop and was so surprised that I took 1,314 pictures in 12 days!!!! I picked out few to share with you.

We left here at 3 am and took us 15 hours to arrive Milwaukee, WI. I spent all day knitting and completed one sock and one cowl (picture will come up soon).

I was so happy to see my family and forgot to take any pictures!!! We only stayed there overnight. We left at 6 am to go to Sturgis, SD.

I knitted second sock on the way from Milwaukee.

Bad storm in Minnesota - good thing it lasted an hour.

The trip to Stuurgis took us FOREVER!!!!

Beautiful sunset in somewhere South Dakota.

We arrived at 9:30 pm and unpacked our stuff to make a home.

My DH added the air conditioner in the trailer. Aren't we that spoiled? Good thing that he thought of that because the temperature was 90 to 100 degrees during the day.

We rode harley to Mount Rushmore.

I spotted the four famous faces right away from the road.

Close up of four presidents' faces

Trip to Devils Tower in Wyoming

I told my DH for years that I alway want to go to see Devils Tower ever since I saw " The Closer Encounter of Third Kind" movie in 1978. I was so thrilled that we went there. It was only one hour away from the campground. During the travel, I kept looking around for the odd shape and saw it right away from 20 miles. Goosebumps feeling!!

Really beauty!!

Breathtaking view!! We spent three hours walking around the tower.

We were sooooo glad that we were there to see it.

It was so hard for me to leave and took the last picture of Devils Tower through the mirror.

We stopped the Sturgis main street. The town is very SMALL but a lot of motorcycles parked on the street.

We spent all day riding around the country. The scenery was so amazing beautiful!!! It was the best therapy for me!

We stopped the town of Deadwood.

We checked out the site where Wild Bill was shot in the saloon.

Bikers and bikes were EVERYWHERE!!!!!

Small town of Hill City

Crazy Horse

Needle Parkway

Amazing needle!!

Holy cow..... a herd of buffalo blocked the road. We waited for 10 minutes to get the road clear up.

Beautiful rainbow!

The weather was so unpredictable. It was so cold and windy. Good thing that my DH added the trap around the caopy.

Our little portable hearer

I knitted during down time.

And watched TV at night!

Rode around Custer State Park

Elks

Prairie Dog

Buffalos

Donkeys

View of Mt. Rushmore from the cave

Another cave

Closer view of Mt. Rushmore

Badlands National Park - 75 miles away from our campground

BREATHTAKING VIEW!!!!!

We stopped Famous Wall Drug store.

Back to Sturgis Main Street at night. Watched bikers passing us.

Rode to town of Spearfish

Saw Steven Tyler at the Thunder Road Bike Event

We stopped at Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota on way back to Milwaukee.

Really cool - all the artwork are made of CORN COBS!!!

We arrived back to my family's house again and spent a day with my family. My godmother and uncle stopped by. It was sooooo good to see them again. I wish we could stay longer.

We stopped Harley Davidson Museum in downtown of Milwaukee. The museum opened few weeks ago.

My DH was soooo thrilled to see the original design of 1903 motorcyle.

On long way back to east, I knitted the sock.

We arrived home last Sunday at 7:15 pm and took us two hours unpacking our stuff. It was so good to be home safe. Wish the time went very slow so I can enjoy every minutes of my vacation. We were so glad that we went!! It was the best time of our vacation.

Awwww..... what a warm welcome sign waited for me. Guess my colleagues missed me so much!!!

I have not knitted anything all week!!! I was so busy catching up reading blogs and watching Olympics. I will be working all day tomorrow for new student orientation. I will be very busy all week! More likely I will be back to share with you the update knitting progress this weekend.

Have a GREAT weekend and Happy Knitting!!!

I'm so TIRED!!!

2008-08-11T23:17:00.003-04:00

Wishful thinking!!!

It's really hard to go back to work today after two weeks vacation!

I need some time to recover and will post some pictures soon this week.

Happy Knitting!

Quick update (from my pager)

2008-08-10T12:11:00.000-04:00

No pictures for this post! We are on the road heading back home. Here is a quick update, then more to follow this week.... More pictures!!!

We just got back from vacation in South Dakota. So absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!! So awesome that I could not describe. It was the best trip!

We are expecting to be home before dark today. I need to unpack and upload all the pictures so that you can see. I have a GAZILLIONS so I need to pick out carefully to share with you. Thanks goodness for the ditigal camera. I could download the pictures to my laptop and delete some blurry pictures easily!

Just one other note, it was so great seeing my family once again yesterday. We stopped to stay overnight and spent breakfast and lunch with them. I was really happy that my godmother was in the town. I have not seen her and uncle for years!!! I miss my family already!! We will go back to see my parents again on Labor weekend.

Yuck!!! I have to go back to work tomorrow!! Definitely not looking forward to go back to reality!!

So stay tuned... Loads of picture and knitting progress coming up this week!

Aaaahhh!!!!

2008-07-31T07:08:00.000-04:00

It was sooo good to be my childhood home in with my family yesterday. My parents and my sister look sooooo fabulous as always!

The trip was smooth till we were stuck in Chicago for two hours to get out of rush hours!!! Overall, it was very long trip and the weather was good! I finished knitting one sock and cowl. Real mindless knitting and it was the best therapy for me!

It's 6 am now. We are heading to South Dakota now. Wish I could spend more times with my family. We will be back to see them one more day next week before we go back to the east.

Have a GREAT day and happy knitting!!!

Leaving tonight!!!

2008-07-29T16:25:00.013-04:00

Guess who turns 47 years old today?? *gulping* That's me!!! I don't feel any older but wiser! Smile!!

We are ready to leave tonight... in two hours! Yup....we will be on the road celebrating my birthday! We may stop somewhere in Ohio if my DH is not too tired from driving. We will arrive Milwaukee to see my family tomorrow. Yay!! I really can't wait to see my family!

I bet my DH will roll his eyes seeing my favortie bags coming with me during our vacation! I'm so ready to knit my projects. I don't know if I'm realistic but I want to play it safe in case I complete the projects.

My Knitting Bags!!!

Summer of Sock 2008 - Diagonal Rib Socks

I started it last Saturday and knitted up real fast. I have not touched it since Sunday morning. I'm hoping to finish it tonight.

Printed Silk Cardigan

It was left in my knitting bag for a month. I started knitting two sleeves last Friday and hope to finish the sleeves during the travel.

Hey, Teach!

My badness!!!!! I could not resist this and thought it is soooooo pretty. I swatched the yarn and checked the gauge. Perfect!!! I have six skeins of Violet Cotton Ease that left in my stash for a while and thought it would be pretty cardigan.

The Classic Sock - another project for Summer of Socks 2008

I tried to learn how to knit 2-at-a-time and HATED it!!!! I switched to 12 inches circular needles. No deadline for me to complete it.

Cable Twist Socks - for Ravelympics!!!!!

I will participate in Sock Put event and will start knitting on August 8th.

Zigzag Cowl - for Ravelympics

I also will participate in Cowl Jump Event for Ravelympics. I may start this on way back home after the trip in South Dakota.

Don't we wish to have 8 arms to knit all these projects at same time? Wish me LUCK!!!

Oh oh... I finished the ABC Wooden Board last weekend. I really love it so much! I will put it on the wall after we get back from vacation.

Have a GREAT week! We will be back on August 10th. Who know that I may be able to post some pixs during our vacation.

Happy Knitting!!!!

I'm so ready for.....

2008-07-27T21:39:00.008-04:00

........two week vacation starting tomorrow!!! We will leave this Tuesday night (DH has to work till 5 pm) and will be on the road on my birthday! We may stop somewhere in Ohio for overnight then go over to Milwaukee to see my family. Oh boy, I really can't wait to see my family! That's my birthday wish - spending with my family. We will stay only one night and we will go off to Sturgis, South Dakota for the Bike Event for 9 nights. We definitely will go to many places to visit - Mt. Rushmore, Devel Towers, Pretty Horses, Black Hills, etc.

Tomorrow I will be doing last minutes shopping, packing and get ready for our big trip. I will make sure that I have enough yarns and projects for my trip. I really can't wait!!!!

My 4 years old camera is really acting up lately. I could not afford to take the risk of bringing my old camera with me. We shopped around and decided to go for Nikon Coolpix S210. We tested it to compare with other cameras. I want the smallest camera so I can put it a small purse while my DH riding harley. I'm putting the new battery in the charger now and will test it tomorrow morning.
I hope I like it!

I'm a proud knitter of Ravelympics 2008!!!!! I signed up for Team Western Maryland and will participate in Sock Put and Cowl Jump. Everyone will start knitting on August 8th during the opening ceremony and complete their projects by August 24th during the closing ceremony. Sounds FUN?

I have decided that I will knit Cable Twist Socks and Zigzag Cowl (Ravelry Links). I will be in Sturgis, South Dakota on the day of Opening Ceremony. Definitely will knit these projects on way back home by August 10th.

Happy Knitting!!!

BEST Crazy Crafty weekend!!

2008-07-24T20:32:00.037-04:00

Finally....the internet is up and running fine. It was down last two days and my DH spent all night trying to fix it last night. Thanks to him that we don't need to contact the Comcast.

Recap of 11th Annual Crazy Crowd Crafts Weekend....

Last weekend was FABULOUS time for me!!!! The party begun last Thursday with a lot of beers, laughters and catching up news and the rest of 4 straight nights, we spent all day and night chatting, laughing, and making projects together.

Now I can show you what did I make last few weeks for my three dear friends.

I wrapped the gifts up for each friend.

Cross-stitching letter pin for Sue, Debbie, Sharon and myself.

Primitive snowman ornaments I could not remember where did I see the ornament - probably in one of the craft show. I really love it and memorized it to make ones for my friends. We all love primitive things.

I quilted the table runners and appliqued the wool on the runners. I made four of them and they took me forever to finish them. That's why I didn't knit for a while!

They love my gifts. I want to show you what my friends made for me.

Handmade Ornaments

Santa ornament - made of scupltry from Debbie
Annie ornament - made of wool fabric from Sharon
Primitive Santa - made of flannel fabric from Sue

Handmade Pins

Red beads heart made by Sue
"S" with lime green beads made by Debbie
Leaves with acorn button made by Sharon

Handmade Gifts

Reindeer wool penny rug made by Sharon I was shocked that I was that close to make one for them but I could not find the back issue of Fons and Porter magazine. Whew...that would be funny if we made same thing!

Debbie made Wool Tote Bag. I really love it so much and would definitely use it to put my yarn in my back while knitting something!!

Sue made sunflower/lady bugs wreath. I really love the smell that she used tea dyed fabrics with vanilla and cinnamon flavors.

Thursday night after dinner, we started working on new projects and stayed up till 2:30 am!!!
Flying Snowman

Jumpy Cat (not finished)

I need to find good old black frame to finish the penny rug. I need to complete cat's face.

Last Friday - we made several projects from 11 am to almost 3 am!!!

The weather was so perfect after dinner that we spent few hours stuffing dolls at the patio.

Primitive "Merry Crow" Santa

Primitive Halloween Doll - 28 inches tall

At midnight, we were so high energy and want to learn how to make bracelets and earrings. Sharon was our master teacher and taught us the tricks/tips on how to make bracelets.

Look what I made - my favorite color!!!

Now I know how to make them and definitely will make more bracelets and earrings in the future.

Last Saturday, we spent all day shopping and went out to eat in Mexican resturant.

After dinner, we finished the Primitive Cat

Don't I look so happy spending with my crazy friends? I always cherish my dear friends who share with my passions in crafting, spend hours making crafts and laugh all day and night.

Last Sunday, we spent all day and night in the garage working on the woodwork projects.

Sue and Sharon painted the birdhouses.

Sharon traced the alphabet letters on the wooden board

Sue used the bandsaw to cut the wood.

Debbie measured the letters from the overhead projector.

I painted the long wooden board.

The ABC wooden board and birdhouse are not completed but I will eventually finish them - hopefully this weekend! I will show you of my work after I'm done.

Monday was sad day for me to say goodbye to my friends but I will see them next year at Sharon's place in Rochester, New York. I'm so ready for next year because I had a real blast time!!!

Sharon, Debbie, Sue and me - Summer 2008

I have nothing to share with you on my knitting projects. I finally picked up the sleeves of Printed Lace Cardigan yesterday.

Tomorrow will be my last day of work before I take two weeks vacation. Yay yay!!!! Yup, we do have a big plan for our vacation. Will talk more later this week.

Happy Knitting!!!!

Important Day!

2008-07-20T00:15:00.000-04:00

I want to say Happy Birthday to my sister, Kimbo! She is only sister I have and she is my BEST friend in the world!
Kimbo, being with you, even thinking of you - always refreshes my mind and heart. Thank you for your love, patience and encouragement. Our friendship brings me great joy! Happy birthday to you!!!

Smooches!!!

It's 12:30 am now...
I'm still up working on crafts with my crazy friends. So much fun, a lot of laughters and not enough sleep but all is worth in every seconds with them! They love my gift, ornament and pin. I can't wait to show you my gifts from them and our long weekend projects!

Happy crafting!!!

Bunnyland!!

2008-07-13T19:37:00.027-04:00

We just got back an hour ago from camping weekend!!! It was so fabulous! I never felt sooooo relaxed!

We went to York, Pennyslvania for the weekend for two simple reasons - camping and bike event! We arrived at the campground very late Friday night. I noticed several rabbits at the campground and thought it was odd to see several ones at same time. When we unpacked our stuff out of the trailers, I noticed few more rabbits around us. Really odd!

I woke up really early morning and stepped out of the trailer. I was in awe seeing a lot of rabbits surround the site.

The campground is surrounded the creek. You need to cross the bridge to enter the campground and leave in other side of bridge. I suspected that the rabbits are not able to get out unless they have to cross the bridge to get on the mainland. They are tame and are not afraid of people. I could see children feeding them with the bread crumbs.

Sooo cute!!!

See the bridge .... cross the creek to mainland.

Opposite side of the bridge

Little waterfall on the creek

Creek around the campground.

Our FIVE STAR campsite!!!!

We are so happy to find the perfect campsite....the land is flat and our place is under the trees.

Our own toilet tent and shower tent along with our little home. I don't have gut to get shower in the small tent but my DH did it two times. He loved it sooo much!!! I would rather use the campground shower site.

We can NOT live with the powerful fan. The weather was very HOT and HUMID!!! I feel soooo great sitting near the fan. I know we are not primitive people living in the tent!

We spent all day at the Gettysburg Bike Event. A lot of bikers were in a small town.

We rode around the Gettysburg National Park.

Today we took a lot of time resting and slowly packing our stuff and finally left at 4 pm. Good thing that the rain came 15 minutes later!!!! It was so bad that we hardly can see the road. Took us two hours to get home!!!

Glad that we got home safely!!! It's still raining!!!! We will definitely be back in same place - hopefully with a group of friends!!!! I'm glad that my DH convinced me to go with him.

I will be VERY BUSY this week.... getting ready for my annual CRAZY CROWD CRAFT gathering this Thursday till next Monday. I really can't wait to see my friends!!! I promise I will post what I made for my dear friends and our crazy projects next week!

Have a GREAT week!! Happy Knitting!!!

Triple D!!

2008-07-08T19:36:00.005-04:00

No knitting news but I'm still working on secret projects for my crazy friends. I will reveal my projects after July 21st. Please bear with me because my dear friends read my blog!!! Sorry, girls.... no peeking!!!

Saw it at Phyllis' blog and I want to do the Double Dog Dared!!!!! I'm in mood for sharing my memories of my life!

You should do it too. I Double Dog Dare you. Maybe this may be shocking for my parents to read this because something I never told them!!!

1. Who was your first prom date?
Bruce.... I can't believe how innocent I was for dating him for 2 years.... he was 7 years old than me! I remembered very well when my classmates were shocked seeing me bringing the handsome older man and I was so proud!!!

2. Do you still talk to your first love? Nope...I haven't see him since I broke up with him in my senior year.

3. What was your first alcoholic drink? Probably be "Old Fashioned Sweet" or beer when I was 16 years old.....wasn't I sneaky??

4. What was your first job? I was dishwasher at George Webb Diner

5. What was your first car? 1977 Chevy Impala I sure had a lot of memories with that car during my college years in Washington DC. When I looked back and realized that how stupid I was and am grateful that no one was hurt! I'm not telling you what I did do stupid things!!!

6. Who was the first person to text you today? My DH

7. Who is the first person you thought of this morning? My family! They are always in my thoughts!

8. Who was your first grade teacher? I think it was Miss Cornwell.

9. Where did you go on your first ride on an airplane? I remembered my dad taking me and my sister for a short "water" plane around the lake. I could not remember when and where was it. The real plane to Washington DC visiting my sister during the Homecoming weekend when she was in her first year college was eventful trip for me when I was senior.

10. Who was your first best friend, and are you still friends with him/her? Sandy and Carrie... we lost connection when I got married.

11. What was your first sport played? Hmmm... I'm not athletic but was in Track Team in high school for a short time.

12. Where was your first sleepover? Probably my Grandparent's and non-family related perhaps Carrie's or Sandy's house.

13. Who was the first person you talked to today? My DH

14. Whose wedding were you in the first time? I think it was my cousin Sue's wedding when I was her bridemaid.

15. What was the first thing you did this morning? Well, I did open my eyes and stretched my body!

16. What was the first concert you ever went to? I believed it was last year that I went to see "U2" concert.

17. What was your first tattoo or piercing? I got my ears pierced at 16. I remembered I begged and begged my mother for months and months till she finally gave up and let me to get my ear piered for my birthday. I plan to get tatoo when I turn 50 years old in 3 years from now....seriously!!!! I'm NOT kidding!!!

18. What was the first foreign country you went to? Canada with my family.

19. What was your first run-in with the law? Hmmm...I got my very first speeding ticket when I was 29 years old. Geez... I was so upset that the policeman gave me real bad attitudes and didn't care what I asked him to speak slowly.

20. When was your first detention? Hmmm, little too often when I was kid. I was so hyperactive and didn't have patience to sit still for a good length of time.

21. What was the first state you lived in? Hmmm...I was born in Upper Michigan and moved to Wisconsin when I was three till I went to college in Washington, DC and got my MA degree in NYU. I guess I got myself settled in Maryland for 20 years now.

22. Who was the first person to break your heart? Bruce Actually, we both agreed to break up after a very long conversation several times. He told me that he would have to move to Washington DC if I decide to go to college. That when I realized that he was very possessive of me and didn't trust me at all. I told him that I need freedom and want to experience four years of my college life. It was difficult decision but I told him that it would be better off for me to let him to find a woman at his own age and let me go.

23. Who was your first roommate? I guess it would be my sister, Kimbo. We shared in same room till my grandpa converted the attic room to new room for my sister. We fought so much because I loved to stay up late reading book and my sister loved to sleep in dark room. I guess my screaming woke the whole neighborhood every nights!!

In college, I really don't remember the girl's name at all but what was really irony. She was my sister's first roommate. My sister was so uncomfortable living with her when she brought too many male friends staying in their room. My sister moved out of the room after a week and the person didn't have a roommate for one semester till I was admitted to college in January and found out that she was my roommate. Eeeeekkk!!! I immediately told RA that I didn't want to live with her but the RA asked me to wait for a week. Good thing that she withdrew from University on first day of class in spring semester. Linda who was transferred from other college was my first college roommate and we were very distant. We polited each other and respected our spaces for whole semester without making friends. I never saw her afterward. Strange, isn't it??

24. Where did you go on your first limo ride? San Diego!! My cousin treated us for our second year anniversary. It was so wonderful night that I never forget.

Have fun doing the double dog dared!!!

Happy Knitting!

Where did the week go?

2008-07-04T10:15:00.020-04:00

Well.... I never feel extremely stressful at work this week and it's Friday already! No work today. Yay but I didn't have much to accomplish everything I'm hoping for. Next two weeks I will be busy with the Graduate Assistant trainings then go off to Annual Crazy Crowd group for a long weekend. I only have four working days left before I take TWO weeks vacation!!!!

Last weekend we went up to Elmer, New Jersey for the Eastern Deaf Timberfest. It took us four hours to get there (only 110 miles from here!) Bad traffic and bad weather slowed us down. When we arrived the campground, the electricity power was off. We learned that there was tornado hit only 2 miles away from the campground. Took us forever to get our stuff out and set up tent for the weekend. Good thing that my DH was fully prepared for camping. He brought lantern, portable toilet and little tent for the toilet and shower. The restroom at the campground was closed due to no water and electricity!!! Geez!!! We experienced in living in the primitive time!! We spent all day watching the events and there were over 900 deaf people. It was good to meet old friends to catch up all the news and met new people.

Yogi Bear Campground at Elmer, New Jersey

Our little home

Our lovely bedroom - yup!!! Aren't we spoiled to have air mattress set up in the trailer???

My Breakfast Chef!!

Our Own First Class Restroom!

We watched timberfest relay contest.

We decided to go out to eat for dinner instead of cook out in the campground. It was toooooo hot and humid. Still no water and electricity on our second day of campground. We saw several trees torn down.

Whoa...that was huge tree fell!!

After dinner, we went back and saw BEAUTIFUL view of sunset.

The electricity and water went back on at 11 p.m. on Saturday.

Yes, I spent a lot of time knitting and finished two different socks on that weekend!!! I'm so glad that two "second sock syndrome" are over!

Pattern: Aran Twist
Yarn: Wullenstudio Designer Yarn

Needle: Size 2 -2" circular needle

I really love the yarn. I have the pink one and can't wait to make another one!

Pattern: Squall

Yarn: Lorna's Lace Shepard Sock - "Jeans"

Needle: Size 1 - 12" circular needle

These socks are completed for the Summer of Socks 2008!!! More socks to come!!!

We wish you a Happy Fourth of July!!!!!! Have a wonderful weekend! Happy Knitting!!!

Today is exactly 19 years ago........

2008-07-01T12:13:00.000-04:00

I married my best friend, Craig.

I've known Craig for almost 24 years now. It doesn't seem possible that it could be that long a time. Yet it is. Every time I look at Craig I am reminded of how lucky lucky lucky I have been in my life to have found such a special and caring person to spend my days with.

Happy anniversary, my darling Craig!!!! To a phenomenal husband, may our next year together bring many wonderful things and great health.

Very PRODUCTIVE wekend!!

2008-06-23T18:20:00.013-04:00

I'm so sad that the weekend was over and it was so hard to go back to work this morning!!!!

I had a great weekend with a lot of things done (almost!!!) but nothing is related to knitting!!!! :(

Went to Stitch n' Pitch night with my hubby and my friend Paul on Friday night. It was perfect night!!! The Washington Nationals was hosting the Texas Rangers, and the game went overtime to 14 innings. We left at 12 innings as we were so exhausted from hard week. I found out that Nationals won!! Yay!!! The game was officially the longest in Nationals’ history. I received the freebies/bag. There were many familiar faces that I recognized scattering around five sections on fifth floor of the stadium and it was so much fun watching some people knitting and watching the game.

knitting sock while watching game

Free bag

along with free yarns, patterns and brochures.

There was a touching tribute to Tim Russert at the beginning of the game. It made me cry again!!

On Saturday, my hubby went out riding harley all day with his friends. I got up early morning ready for the day. I was supposed to do the laundry but instead I caught up reading Ravelry forum with few cups of coffee. Thanks to Ravelry forum, I found out there are two new yarn shops in Virginia. I decided to go there as I was planning to stop two quilt stores and checked them out!!! With Yarn in Front store just opened last Monday and I met the owner. At first I had trouble understanding her but later found out that she is the owner of the store. She was very warm and helpful. Not very many yarns there but the owner told me that more yarns will come in later this week. I could not resist but brought yarns and pattern.

Jojoland Swirl Shawl Pattern along with 5 skeins of yarn

I went over to The Artful Quilter as it was only 1 mile away from the new store. I really love that store and was so thrilled that they carry Amy Bulter fabric and patterns. I was drooling over the several beautiful quilts that displays on the wall. I know I'm WEAK person but brought fabrics with the pattern!

After lunch, I stopped over the Nature's Yarn and was so impressive with that store. They carry many natural, organic, and hypoallergenic yarns. I signed up to get their mailing list so I can get discounts for my birthday. They will take half of my age percent off my purchases for one day during the week of my birth!! How cool is that?

Lastly, I stopped over The Quilt Patch and shopped around for a while. Not much changes since I was there last time.

As soon as I got home, I did a lot of laundry and housecleaning all afternoon. I spent all night and all day non-stop working on secret projects for 12th annual craft gathering. Some of you recall my stories about my crazy friends, and you may even remember last year's gathering. My visit this year will be on July 17-21st at Sue's house near Frederick. Every year we make each other pins, ornaments and gifts. They have to be handmade. I'm done with the ornaments and almost done with pins. I'm half way finished with the gifts. I need to prepare my two hour project for the ladies. I wish I could show you but I know my crazy friends read my blog. I promise I will post the photos after the gathering next month. I can not wait!!!

Tonight I'm going up to my craft room trying to finish the pins and start working the projects. Fun fun fun!!!!!

Happy Knitting!

It's All About Memememe!!

2008-06-14T23:11:00.007-04:00

The rules:
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.

b. Using only the first page, pick an image.

c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker.

1. What is your first name?

2. What is your favorite food?

3. What high school did you go to?

4. What is your favorite color?

5. Who is your celebrity crush?

6. Favorite drink?

7. Dream vacation?

8. Favorite dessert?

9. What you want to be when you grow up?

10. What do you love most in life?

11. One Word to describe you.

12. Your flickr name.

I’m not going to tag anyone for this meme, so if you’d like to play, consider yourself tagged.

Have a great weekend!

Great Escape

2008-06-11T22:17:00.011-04:00

We really need break from stressful working environment and escaped to fanasty place at Raystown, PA. last weekend. We survived through heat waves!!! Bless my DH for bringing the fan along to keep us really cool under the trees.

That was our little home....we slept in the trailer and set up little tent to make a real home for two nights.

Ohhh...I really love with Coleman Coffee Maker!!!!! I can't live with it in the morning!!!! My DH knows me that I MUST MUST MUST have coffee ready before we start making breakfast.

My DH was the chef for the day. He made a nice hot breakfast while I enjoyed sitting and drinking coffee.

We spent all day riding harley through several national parks and old towns.

I brought knitting project with me but realized it was soooooooooo HOT to knit and the bugs kept bothering me!!! I spent two nights reading book - Sacajawea. I used to read that book when I was in High School. This is one of my all time favorite historical fictions. I lost track of my original book over the years lending it out but saw it in a bookstore and quickly brought another one.

My DH built up the bonfire to prepare for dinner while I could not put the book down reading!

We were so sad packing up and have to go back to real world!!! Goodbye to our campsite!

Beautiful view driving back home.

So peaceful and sooo green!!!

We love camping so much and hope to go back there real soon.

No knitting news as I have not touched them for days!!! I don't have any energy to pick up my knitting projects. Blame the weather for exhausting my energy!!!

Stay tuned for update knitting projects soon!

Stay cooooool!!!!! Happy Knitting!

No wonder why.....

2008-06-04T19:08:00.004-04:00

how much I really love Starbuck coffee..... I like black coffee.... that's it! No milk or sweet thing added in my coffee....just bold and black one!!! Yummy!!!

OnePlusYou Quizzes and Widgets

I am 69% Addicted to Coffee

OnePlusYou Quizzes and Widgets

No Changes in WIP but socks!!!

2008-06-02T19:38:00.007-04:00

Sock addiction haunts me lately!!! I ain't complain!!! I lovelovelove it!!

I brought my knitting bag to Philadelphia for the conference last week and FORGET to bring smaller needle and extra skeins for the Printed Silk Cardigan. I could not believe it as I thought I was fully prepared for the short trip!!! I was so discouraged as I thought I would finish the back piece!! Good thing I found the sock yarn in the bottom of my knitting bag. I spent whole time during the trip, lunch break and after workshop knitting socks!!!

Lorna's Lace Shepherd Sock Yarn - Squall pattern

I used size 0 - 12" circular and it's really hard on my hand to knit very small stitches I'm almost done with one sock and second needs to do the kitchener stitch. I need to get break before my sore hand gets worse.

I got back home last Thursday and didn't feel up to go back to work on Friday. I really wish I could stay in Philly one more day to stroll few yarn shops. I wish the stores open late. The conference ended at 5:30 pm and the stores close at 6 pm, too.

What did I do on Friday? I decided to try the new yarn that I brought from the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. Wullenstudio yarn is soooooooo lovely to knit with. So yummy and soft!!! It took me 2 days to finish one sock. I started the second one last night. Seems that I'm really obsessed with cable things.

Update on Printed Silk Cardigan

I started knitting the back piece during the Memorial Weekend. I finally switched to smaller needle this morning and knitted few rows from the chart. I have no deadline although I'm determined to finish it before July.

I didn't finish the Tangled Yoke Cardigan at all. I have trouble understanding how to get two sleeves together on the body piece. I will hold it till I ask someone for help. I don't have any patience if I screw it up badly.

Happy Monday!! Happy Knitting!!!

Madison and I wish you a.....

2008-05-23T16:49:00.003-04:00

Memorial Weekend!!!!!!

I could not resist this but want to share it with you all. My student got a new puppy named Madison for her graduation gift from her parents. She showed to my friend, Jerri Lyn. Jerri Lyn immediately told her to see me as she knew how much I really love mini-schauzher. I saw the student with her puppy. My heart MELTED and was almost dognapping from the student! I convinced the student to let me dogsitting on her graduation day. Madison was so joyful and I really enjoyed having her staying in my office all day long. She slept on my lap all morning. She was so playful for two hours then went back to sleep on my lap till her mama came and picked her up. Madison is 12 weeks old. I miss her already!!!!! *sniffling* Someday I will adopt two puppies!!!

I realized that I will be gone to Philadelphia next week for the conference. I will be back on Thursday night.

Have a GREAT weekend!!!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Now I can breath....

2008-05-22T19:25:00.011-04:00

I'm so happy that the spring semester is over two weeks ago and the commencement was over last Friday. I finally wrapped up and turned in all paperwork to offices. Summer is here!! Few students are here on campus taking summer school. Few residence halls are closed for two weeks till summer programs start. It will be busy summer for me at work.

I was alone for five nights last week while my DH rode Harley to Myrtle Beach, SC with his friend for the bike week. I thought I would have plenty of time knitting and do nothing but read and update blogs. I was wrong!! I spent all afternoon shopping at Baltimore and stopped new yarn shop - Lovelyarns. The store is really cute. When I arrive there, I could see two ladies sitting and knitting at the front porch and there were four men and two women knitting inside the store. They have Malabrigo yarns that I'm really in love with! I left the store empty hands. I went to Fiberworks in Ashton, Maryland on Sunday and found the yarn I need for my next project - Printed Silk Cardigan. That store is REALLY messy and so unorganized but the owner was very helpful. I was so tempted to take over the store and organize the yarn to make it more friendly.

Elsabeth Lavold - Hemopathy

I was so happy to my DH again last Sunday. He arrived home at 9:15 pm. He was soooo exhausted from riding 12 hours (through windy and rainy day). I'm relieved that he got home safe. He had a great time there!!!

Tangled Yoke Cardigan in progress

I did finish the body and one sleeve of the Tangled Yoke Cardigan. And, I'm almost done with second sleeve. I can't wait to put these pieces together and make the yoke. I hope it will turn out beautiful as I'm hoping for.

Secret Book /Yarn Swap Strikes Again....

The package arrived today and I was sooooo lucky that Denise from Albama spoiled me with many stuff. Ain't I spoiled? Thanks, Denise!!!!!!

2 Burgundy Gloss Yarn, 2 Cocoa Gloss Yarn, 1 Shimmer "Spice" Yarn, 1 Gossamer "Trail" Yarn, Handspun Blue/Purple Yarn, Bottle of Woolwash, Books "The Guilty" by Jason Pinter and "Slatewiper" by Lewis Perdue, Two Collections - classic prints of leaves and shells, Four patterns - Lemonade sock, One Skein Sockettes, Summer Wheat Tank and Broken Cable Socks, Organic Tea bags and Dreamcatcher key chain

Memorial Weekend is coming up real soon. More likely we will go to camping this weekend. We have not decided where to camp but definitely want to get out of our house. I would rather be knitting than doing the housecleaning!!! The weather should be very NICE this weekend.

Hopefully, I will post the finished sweater next week and start new project - Printed Silk Cardigan.

Happy Knitting, Happy Memorial Weekend and Have a GREAT weekend!!!!

MDSW Recap

2008-05-05T21:14:00.019-04:00

Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival is over already!!!! Waaahhhh!!! Seems that the weekend went too fast after waiting for one year since I was there.

I went there last Saturday all myself although I wish my friends could join with me. One had paper dues for her classes and one participated in Avon Walk weekend. Two had prior commitments and could not come this year. I left at 9:30 am knowing that it would take me 15 minutes to get there but I was wrong. There was a long line of vechiles on Route 32 and it took me an hour to get there! Good thing I had Venti Starbuck coffee with me.

Whoa..... there were FULL vehicles parking on the fairground at 10:30 am!!! The weather was gloomy and cool. I had an opportunity to wear my favorite Central Park Hoodie that I knitted.

The sun finally came out and it was soooo perfect!! Dry and warm weather! Really crowded of people there!!! I don't know if it is my imagination but there were so many people there growing bigger and bigger than last four years that I attended.

I really enjoyed looking at the animals!!!

I walked and browsed through carefully on each booth and saw many familiar faces through blogs and ravelry. I didn't have any courages to meet them and introduced myself with them. I'm pretty shy around hearing people but I know myself that I'm not shy around with deaf people. I guess it's my comfort zone where I can communicate with people through sign language. I hope someday I would get more courages to meet people - maybe in Stitches East conference in the fall.

Although I have so many stash yarns at home, I'm proud of myself that I didn't buy any yarns in 2008. I made a few list that I really want to make this year. I brought some yarns.

Louet Gems (tan and brown) to make Endpaper Mitts

Two Wullenstudio Designer Yarns for socks that I joined the Summer of Socks 2008. I have not decided what sock patterns that I plan to knit.

This sock that I could NOT resist and don't plan to buy but I did!!!! Green Mountain Spinnery Sock Art (Meadow). The yarn is so incredible SOFT!!!!! I could not keep my hands away from it but fondling it on my face!!! I'm still WEAK!! This definitely will be my special gift to someone that I would like to knit.

This one was on my list for a while - Green Mountain Spinnery Maine Organic

to make that sock - Tyrolean Stockings from Interwearve Knits - Fall 2007

(Sorry for crabby pix- I will try to get better photo outside tomorrow)
Yesterday I started knitting the sock. Let me tell you.... it's an ADDICTIVE!!!! I want to make short leg sock instead of long one. I could not believe that I actually knit it all afternoon non-stop and finally turned into heels and gusset. My right wrist is little sore from knitting it nonstop last night.

I thought I would finish it tonight but I want to take easy on my wrist. I'm going back and knit Tangled Yoke Cardigan tonight.

I hope my friends can come with me next year!!!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Rain, Rain, GO AWAY!!!

2008-04-28T19:57:00.009-04:00

Don't you sick of rain in last three days!!!? The weather affected me badly. It stopped right now but it will rain again later in the evening till tomorrow. I heard it may rain this weekend.... No, no, no!!! Pretty please because I want to stay dry and enjoy shopping at Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival this weekend!!!! Yup, it is on Saturday and Sunday!!!

Last Friday, my Caffeine Swap Partner from New Jersey sent me the package. She spoiled me with a lot of goodies. Two different kind of chocolates, Bucks County Coffee Co. (Costa Rica Dulce de Sol) Mighty Leaf tea bags, a coffee cup and two gorgeous yarns.

The coffee and teas are soooo delicious.

My own GREEN Malabrigo yarns!!! My wish came true!!!! I'm in love with these yarns!!

Thanks, Hope!!!!

FO: Raindrops Lace Socks

I finished it last Saturday. I really love the color and textured ones. I found this really soothing to knit with.

Pattern: Raindrops Lace Socks

Source: Evelyn A. Clark leafet
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Solid

Needle: 12" circular needles- size tw0

WIP - Tangled Yoke Cardigan

I started it last winter but didn't pick it up till last Saturday. The gauge was way off and I ripped it off and started all over with different kind of needle. I swatched it and it look right to me. I knitted all day yesterday as the rain poured hard all day!!!!

Stay dry and Happy Knitting!!!

Almost getting there.....

2008-04-21T19:01:00.011-04:00

I really love weekends!!!! My DH went out riding Harley with his friends all day on Saturday. I made pretty good progress to finish some unfinished projects since I cleaned my craft room last weekend. I put each projects in large plastic bag.

What are these? 6 plastic bags in a big basket next to my bed.

Everyday Cardigan - two sleeves need to be completed.

Textured Cardigan - two sleeves need to be completed.

Bristow - almost done with back piece

Red Scraf - one more skein to be completed

Surprise gift - almost done with the back piece

Surprise gift - Half way to go to finish the back piece

I've decided to hold Ariann till I find the right mood to pick up the pieces.

Non-Knitting Project

I finally completed the Black Rabbit doll! It is sitting on little rocker in front of our big TV.

Last Saturday morning after completing the Black Rabbit doll, I was in mood for knitting sock. I looked up in small basket and found three socks that don't have second one. I picked out the green one as I thought it would be perfect way to finish for the Project Spectrum Elements.

Here it is so far.... pretty fast in one day!!! I'm determined to finish it this week.

Raindrop Lace Socks by Evelyn A. Clark

Yesterday afternoon, I finally completed the baguette (Three Sassy, Skinny, Tube Baguettes) that I've been neglected it from Summer 2006. I'm done now but have to felt it. Maybe tonight??

Last night while watching the movie "Sweet Nothing in My Ears", I finally finished the pieces of baby sweater. I need to block them first before seam them together. Hopefully this week!!

Did you watch "Sweet Nothing in My Ears" last night? I was so happy that the movie covered the details to educate people about videophone, doorbell lights, interpreters, pager, sign language and cochlear implant. I know there are a lot of people debating about cochlear implant. I'm not qualified to get it because I was born deaf. I didn't grow up using sign language but orally. I'm pretty good lipreading and can not hear anything except for hearing aid. I can hear the sound but not able to recognize the specific sounds or words. I learned sign language when I was in college. It's strange because for me, after dating two hard-of-hearing guys who speak very good and can hear the music or speak through phone, I found myself little isolated from them. Because of my deafness, I could not relate to them to understand music or interact with hearing people. They often mentioned me that they wish I could hear some music or speak very well. I met very first deaf guy who can not lipread and uses sign language all of his life - I knew I could NEVER go back. I found my true identity. I knew I had to spend the rest of my life with someone who could see how I lived my life - hand to hand. I have to have 100 percent access to communication with my soulmate. We both come from hearing families. I have deaf sister and my DH had deaf grandmother, two deaf aunts and several hard-of-hearing relatives.

Here are few links you may want to read more about the movie and cochlear implant.

DeafDC Blog

Twists and Turns:Journeys with Implants

Cochlear Implant Online

The ASL-Cochlear Implant Community (very good information)

Your thoughts? Feel free to share with me!!

Happy Knitting!!!!!

Blame Game

2008-04-16T18:35:00.014-04:00

Sigh!!! It's one month since I've posted my blog. I have four good reasons and I really want to blame someone or something. *finger point*

Reason One: Since my last post, I had a great Spring Break productive week at work but didn't get much done as I was hoping for. The weather was soooooo unbelievable beautiful and warm. The leaves and flowers sprung out wildly. I was soooooo sick with bad colds, cough and sneezing all weekend. Guess what I blame to? Seasonal allergy!!!

Good News: I went to see the doctor hoping to get better medicine. He suggested me to buy Zyrtec-D. It was amazing that I feeeeeeeeel much much improved!!! No more blame on the weather!!

Reason Two: I spent two weekends cleaning cleaning cleaning my craft room and found several unfinished projects. Guess who I blame to? Me me me me!!!! I'm ashamed to admit that I'm terribly procrastinating and could not stay and finish on projects.

Good news: I reorganized my projects. I finished three out of six non-knitting projects.
Summer ABC cross stitching

Rug hooking snowman on wool penny rug

Wall quilt

Reason Three: I have not touched my knitting projects for two weeks. I have no motivation nor toooo busy at work that doesn't leave me any energy to pick up my knitting needles. Guess what/who I blame to? Unreasonable deadlines were given by my boss and Ravelry. I'm so addicted to Ravelry.

Good news: I finished two big reports for my boss. There is nothing you can do with me about Ravelry. I love love love love Ravelry so much!!! I wish I have 8 arms to knit many projects.

Reason Four: Last Saturday, my poor hubby was sooooo sick with nasty 48 hour bugs!!! I was the best nurse to take care of him. Guess what....I got that nasty mean mean bug last Monday night!!! I was so miserable with all the puke! Guess who I blame to? My own darling hubby who blamed his co-worker!!!! Grrrr!!!

Good news: I feel much improved today and am able to update my blog!!! Yay!!!

Okay...enough of blame game!! My parents taught me not to point my finger to anyone. Well, I did it tonight which made me feeling a lot better!!!

Now... Knitting-related photos that I was too lazy busy to post few weeks ago.

I finished two pairs of socks ...yes, two pairs!!!

I made another Baby Kimono for my colleague who just had a new baby two weeks ago.

I finally seamed the little bear and stuffed it. (see the silly pillow my DH got it for Xmas from his co-worker).

I'm too lazy to go up to my craft room to find the patterns and get the names of yarn of these projects I knitted. I promise I will give you the details of these projects this week. I won't go away and think of new excuses.

Happy Knitting!!! Stay healthy!!!

Think Green

2008-03-17T19:18:00.008-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!! Green is my favorite color!

I wore green clothes to work today...well, not really "all" green but I wore green blouse, green vest, little pin, green Dansko shoes and Leprechaun socks! I was so happy to see all of my colleagues wearing green today. I came up with silly idea that we all should wear specific color on each day this week because it's Spring Break week. They agreed with me!!! Tomorrow we will wear something purple, Red on Wednesday, Brown on Thursday and Blue on Friday.

Last Friday, I finished one sock and was determined to finish the second one. Guess what, I'm almost finished!! It was very productive weekend for me. Craig went out with his friend last weekend. I knitted and did a lot of laundry. I watched three straight movies - The Cutting Edge, The Cutting Edge 2: Going for the Gold and The Cutting Edge 3: Chasing the Dream yesterday.

I'm going to watch "Dancing with the Stars" and hope to finish the sock tonight. Marlee Matlin will dance tonight!!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Back to Reality

2008-03-09T16:39:00.029-04:00

We got back from the warmest place in Daytona Beach, Florida!! Dang!! I tried to bring the warm weather here but seems the sun followed us so far!

We had a GREAT time there!!! A lot of PHOTOS to share with you....

From Day One:

My DH looked so happy to leave the cold weather to warm place!!

I was happy knitting my new project, Ariann.

There were sooooooo many bikers, trailers with motorcycles, and RVs driving south on 95. We noticed something weird on the red vehicle.....something was missing in the front.

Ahhhh....that explains why!!!!

How cool is that?!!!!

We arrived Daytona Beach campground at 10:30 pm and parked our trailer next to new deaf couple from Michigan. They brought their fancy fifth wheel trailer. We shared little living room and kitchen on the campground. Two other deaf couples from Indiana stayed with us in few site away.

Second Day:

We went to Main Street where many bikers showed off their bikes down and up the street all day and night.

Cool bike with a lot of spikes from rear to biker's helmet to the front!!

The couple brought their dog along!

Beautiful view in the early evening!

Day Three:

We went to Daytona International Speedway where all the vendors were held.

My DH, Dave and Barbara from Michigan and Bobby from Kentucky

Policemen showed off their talents.

I love these trees so much!!!

Wonder why the Red Society ladies were doing at the Bike Event?

Day Four:

We rode by the coastline all day and stopped to see the Altantic Ocean.

Beautiful and sunny day!

Day Five: I forgot to bring my camera with me. We went out riding around the town and stopped several vendors to shop around.

Day Six:

Good thing that we checked out on Friday morning at 7 am before the rain poured down so hard. The couple from Michigan left at 5:30 am and paged me that they were stuck in Kentucky snowstorm. They dropped Bobby off and stayed overnight.

Poor DH, he was so tired from driving through nasty weather all day and decided to stop at Walterboro, South Carolina to stay overnight at the motel.

Day Seven:

The weather was so perfect but it was very windy all day!!!!

Till we entered Virginia...there was bad storm for a short time. Guess what my DH was doing???

We looked at beautiful rainbow!

During the trip, I knitted the sock instead of Ariann sweater.....

And reading blogs and ravelry through my pager.

Ahhhh we were so glad that we arrived home at 8 pm last night. Oh boy, we were soooooo tired!! It was worthwhile week for us!

Today I spent all afternoon unpacking, cleaning and washing clothes!!! No fun!!!

I'm not looking forward to go back to work tomorrow. Blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!!!

Happy Knitting!!!

On the road

2008-03-01T11:32:00.000-05:00

Guess where am I now???

In the car using my pager on I-95 south of North Carolina!!
We are heading down to Daytona Beach, Florida for the Bike Week! My DH is soooooo excited and can't wait to ride his big baby toy!! I'm sooooo happy that I have more knitting time! Yay!!

Past few days were pretty rough for me at work. Meetings, meetings and seriously NON-STOP meetings!!!! I didn't have time catching up my emails and paperwork. I managed to come to work at 7 am yesterday to catch up my emails and paperwork before meetings and worked through lunch. I finally left my office at 7 pm. I was so beat! I'm so glad that my DH agreed to leave this morning instead of last night. Mwah!!

I was hoping to share what projects I plan to knit. I narrowed down to three specific projects: Ariann, Tangled Yoke Cardigan and Printed Silk Cardigan. I checked my yarn stash. (That's my new year resolution - do not buy new yarns!! Use what I have!! I know I have many yarns hiding in the closets). It took me two days of reading all patterns, playing with yarns and thinking. I have 15 balls of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran that I purchased thru E-bay for a great price three years ago. I sensed that that yarns have been screaming through my eyes every time I open the closet! Ariann won!!! I checked the gauge and it came out perfect!

I casted on the needle last Thursday and didn't knit till this morning after drinking my hot coffee when we are on the road.

I also bring my sock yarn and several sock patterns that I have not decide which one I would knit. I will decide when I feel like to knit sock.
I mentioned my DH that I would like to stop LYS in Florida if time permits. I don't know there is one there in Daytona Beach but I will ask someone or check the phone book when we arrive there. Please let me know if you know the place(s). Thanks!!!

It's almost lunch time!! We are going to stop in rest area and eat sandwiches soon!!! I bring my laptop with me and am not sure if I will be able to use it at the campground. I hope so! I could post some pictures of the bike event and share my knitting progress.
Have a great day!!! Happy March!!! Happy Knitting!!!

The Oscar goes to......

2008-02-25T21:15:00.013-05:00

my finished Central Park Hoodie!!! *shocking look*

(sorry for crabby picture)

Well, well, well....not quite finished!!! I need to weave the loose yarn, add buttons and crochet buttonloops. I need to shop for right buttons this week. I don't know why it took me forever to seam the pieces together when I was done knitting the pieces last month. I was so nervous when I seamed them together and tried on. I was so pleased that it fits me well!!! I really can't wait to finalize it and wear it by this weekend.

Close-up

I really love it so much!!! I will have better pictures when I'm done.

News Flash .... more FOs!!!

*clapping, clapping*

Second FO.... Nutkin Socks

Pattern: Nutkin Socks

Yarn: Brooklyn Handspun Superwash Sock Yarn

Needles: Size 1.5 - 12"circular needle and dpn

It was super fast project for me... took me 2 days to finish each sock

Lastly, another quick project that I completed last Friday is another HAT!!

Pattern: Banana Republic Hat

Yarn: Patons Shetland Chunky Tweeds - black

Needle: Size 10 - 16 inches circular needles and DPN

I sure had a productive weekend!

Stay tuned for new project! Maybe tomorrow!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Over the Moon!

2008-02-21T12:22:00.005-05:00

Did you see it?

Wow.... My DH and I witnessed the lunar eclipse last night. So beautiful view from our front porch. The sky was so clear for us to view the moon but we were FROZEN standing outside. My DH took several pictures of the moon.

If you miss seeing it, no sweat...it will come back on December 2010!!!

On the mend

2008-02-20T18:09:00.005-05:00

I'm feeling better today but I've been sick with a very nasty bug. I finally get my energy back after two days of ZERO energy! I didn't go to work for three days. I'm so ready to go back to work tomorrow. I'm sick of staying home and do nothing but sleep, sleep, and sleep!!

I'm working on second sock...less than half way to go! It's amazing that I knit fast! Yay!!

It's snowing but it will rain later in the evening. I took the picture of snow at the patio. Not much snow compared to Milwaukee where my parents live. There are plenty and plenty of snow over there!!! Send more snow over here! I'm not kidding!

Knit Simple magazine arrived in my mailbox today. I'm in love with Log Cabin afghan. I think I have enough yarns from the stash to make it.

I really like Ribbed Surplice Top. Perfect top for spring. I will add it to my queue list.

Sigh! I have to finish the Central Park Hoodie real soon. I hope I will finish it before we go down to Daytona Beach for Bike Week next Saturday for one week. Yup, our first vacation in 2008!!

Stay warm and Happy Knitting.

Few FOs to share with you

2008-02-17T19:34:00.014-05:00

Hi... Been busy here for last few weeks. This morning, I woke up feeling so blah. Look like I may have colds. My sore throat is killing me badly. I drank several hot tea and feel little improved. I didn't do much except for cleaning little bit in my craft room and finished the rughooking snowman. I will show you when I'm doing sewing it up on wool pieces.

FEW FOs to show you off...

The penny rug runner I completed with my friend, Sue few weeks ago and really love it.

I made the snowmen penny rug runner few years ago and used it during the winter time. Isn't it cute?

I'm happy to receive two favorite magazines in the mail last week.

I found one pattern in Interweave Knit Spring 2008 that I really like to knit - Printed Silk Cardigan. My goal is to finish the Central Park Hoodie sweater first before I do the research on which yarn to make the cardigan.

Project Spectrum 3 is HERE!!!!

I'm so excited about seeing all of the projects and gaining inspiration from really talented people. February and March are the Fire element, which means using the colors pink/orange/red or using the element of fire in my creations. I'll post whatever I come up with here.

My first project for PS3 is Koolhaas Hat.

The hat took me one day to finish it. I'm surprised that I really like wearing it. I bet my mom would be proud of me for wearing hat. I'm not "hat" person and my mom would insist me wearing it during cold weather when I was little girl.

Pattern: Koolhaas Hat

Source: Interweave Knits, Holiday 2007

Yarn: Briggs & Little Heritage

Needles: Size 6 and 8 Addi Turbo circular needles 16 inches

Second PS3 - Pink/Orange sock

One finished sock. This felt like the quickest knit ever.

Pattern: Nutkin Sock

Yarn: Brooklyn Handspun Superwash Merino

Lastly, Pink Roses from my DH on Valentine's Day!

Stay warm and Happy Knitting!!!

Finally!!!!

2008-01-27T18:23:00.000-05:00

I'm so brave to make FRENCH meat pie!!!!

Traditionally, my family had meat pies on every Thansgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year Day. I grew up loving to eat meat pies. I never made my own meat pie although my mother gave me the recipe when I got married almost 19 years ago. Ever since, I was so scared of making one (or am afraid to make it that may taste blah!!!!)

When I got married, my hubby never heard of meat pie and I always brag about the world best meat pie my mother made. When we were in my parents' house for the holiday, I encouraged him to try it. He was relucant at first but tried to taste it. He was surprised that he really likes it. He told me that he was looking forward to eat my mother's pies. I didn't have any guts to make ones although the recipe looks so simple to make ones.

Every time my parents come down to Maryland for visit, I begged my mom to make several pies. She is so sweetheart that she was so happy making several pies for us. I never get chance to make more after my parents left.

Ever since Christmas Day, I dreamed and craved for the meat pies!!! I could not find the recipe and contacted my mom to email me the recipe few weeks ago. This morning, I decided to go to grocery and brought some items to make the meat pies. I spent all afternoon cooking the meat. My hubby told me that he remembered the strong smell from the kitchen that my mother made and could not wait to taste it. I'm really so proud that the meat pies came out perfectly!!! Craig ate three pieces and gave me a BIG thumb up!!! I'm going to save last piece of pie for lunch tomorrow. I put the last whole pie in the freeze till Valentine's Day. I'm so proud and I bet my family are proud of me!!!

Now, I know I'm not scared of making meat pies anymore!!!!

Hiya!

2008-01-23T21:12:00.000-05:00

Long time no post!

I was stuck on campus resuming on call duty for one week two weeks ago and got very busy at work last week. The internet was down when I was staying in the dorm for a week. I was so happy that I spent every nights knitting Central Park Hoodie while watching Lost One and Two DVD. I was so happy to take last Friday off from work for a long weekend but I knitted very little because I was battling with sinus headaches. I started working on two secret projects. These projects will not reveal till this coming Christmas. No kidding but I have to start something since I joined the 12 months till Christmas group.

I'm sick for last two days with very bad sinus infections/head colds. I didn't knit for last two days but spent all afternoon today uploading some pictures of finished projects for Ravelry. I hope to take some pictures of stash this weekend. I'm not good in organizing with pictures on my laptop but I'm learning to organize it better.

I'm done with pieces of Central Park Hoodie and am waiting for the pieces to dry up before I seam the shoulders before completing the hood part. Seems that I have trouble with downloading some pictures. I will try it again tomorrow.

Happy Birthday, Mother!!!!

2008-01-06T18:55:00.000-05:00

My sister, Kimbo from Boston, my DH, Craig and I wish to say "Happy Birthday, Mother!!" Today is our mother's birthday but we are so far away from her. How we wish we could join our dad in sharing her birthday.

We can't help but we feel how happy we are that you are in our life, and how lucky we are to have you our mother. Happy Birthday, Mother!!!! Hugs from Kimbo, Craig and me!!!

New Projects for 2008

2008-01-02T20:01:00.000-05:00

I got back to work after a long blissful week off. Not many people show up at work but it was nice for me to catch up all the emails, mail and reorganized my files.

As I looked back the year of 2007, it was an unproductive knitting year for me. I didn't accomplish many projects as I was hoping for. Sadly, I knitted only 2.5 pairs of sock and the second one is still waiting for me to finish in 2007!

By the numbers, 2007's knitting from me yielded:
2.5 pairs of sock
3 sweaters

2 calorimetry hat

1 fingerless glove
1 baby hat

1 baby cardigan

2 scarves

Now, I'm so determined to have a great knitting year! I'v decided to join the Burnin' Up the Stash group and Twelve Month till Christmas group and hope to get inspiration by ravelry members to use up my stash for myself and gifts for my friends/family. I do have some ideas what to knit for my family. Cross my fingers that I will accomplish them this year!!

Here is my current knitting progress....
I spent my vacation time knitting Central Park Hoodie jacket. I finished the back and two front pieces. I'm on sleeves island now.

I use Jo Sharp Silkwood Aran Tweed yarn - Espresso. I got the yarn for good prices through the yarn swap as soon as I finished knitting the green vest. I really love the yarn so much. So soft!

Now, I'm going to knit the sleeves and watch "LOST - The Complete First Season" dvd now.

Happy Knitting and stay WARM!! It's freezing outside now.... Brrrr!!!!!!

Goodbye 2007

2007-12-31T17:05:00.000-05:00

It has come to my attention that the year of 2007 is really over for good!! I'm glad to see a new year come in. I do hope 2008 bring us very good health, especially my sister, Kimbo.

Non-knitting FO of 2007 - just want to show off my new project! (can I?)

My friend, Sue and I made three snowmen sack light last Saturday. So much fun to make ones and they are so adorable cute to add in the house through the winter time.

Happy New Year from our house to yours!!

Wishing you all a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year!

New Partner and FOs!!!

2007-12-28T13:20:00.000-05:00

My New Partner!!!

Look what Santa bought me....my own dressform partner!!!! (hmmm....it was my DH! I gave him plenty of hints that I would like to have one) Thanks DH!! I'm thinking of giving her a name - Harleygirl? Hayden? Hailey? I will let my DH vote. I bet he would vote her "Harleygirl".

I have several FOs...mostly were done last November. I didn't have time to blog about them. Let me present........

Here is my big Raggedy Ann doll modeling the completed hat. My boss' secretary is expecting a baby boy in January. I thought of making her a baby hat. It took me whole day to finish when we went down to Florida for Thanksgiving weekend. The hat will fit a baby to 18 months.

Pattern: Fishes of the Sea Hat

Source: Theresa Gaffey Designs #43

Yarns: Reynolds - Soft Sea Wool

Needles: 16" needles/DPN - sizes 4 and 6

Baby Kimono for my boss' secretary

Pattern: One-Piece Baby Kimono

Source: Mason & Dixon Knitting book

Yarn: unknown (found it in my stash box)

Needle: size 8

Christmas gift for my secretary - Montego Bay Scraf . She loves purple so much.

Pattern: Montego Bay Scarf

Source: Interweave Knits Summer 2007

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Pure Cashmere (2 skeins)

Needles: Size US7

I also finished the Veste Everest vest. No picture yet but soon I will make times.

Lastly, I finished the Tilted Duster sweater on Christmas Day!!! Here is my new dressform modeling the completed sweater. I need to buy buttons and plan to block the sweater today.

Pattern: Tilted Duster sweater

Source: Interweave Knits: Fall 2007

Yarns: Cascade 220 - Heathers

Needles: 24" and 32" size 9

Start Date: November 2007

End Date: December 25, 2007

I better go and buy the buttons as I really want to finish the sweater. I would like to wear it on New Year Eve dinner.

Coming up real soon - my next obession projects!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Merry Christmas to You and Yours

2007-12-24T15:59:00.000-05:00

Enjoy your Christmas Eve, and very best wishes to you and yours.

Happy Knitting!

Happy Birthday to....

2007-12-16T18:14:00.001-05:00

my dear hubby, Craig!!!! He turns 44 years old today!

I'm taking him to his favorite restuarant - Houston's Restaurant tonight.

A Christmas Meme

2007-12-15T19:35:00.000-05:00

Okay, I don't usually do these, but I saw this one on several bloggers & had to steal it. What can I say? I'm a sucker for all things Christmas!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? That depends on the gift

2. Real or fake tree? We have a really skinny, very thin fake tree that comes with lightings

3. When do you put up the tree? Uusally a day after Thanksgiving Day.

4. When do you take the tree down? On the day of Superbowl Game.

5. Do you like eggnog? Yummy!!

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Raggedy Ann doll

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes

8. Hardest person to buy for? My father in law

9. Easiest person to buy for? My hubby

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever got? I can't think of one right now...

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail Christmas cards

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? White Christmas

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Every year I take one day off from work and shop for one day - I'm the person with the plan because I hate shopping in crowded places.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Homemade Christmas cookies from my mom... of all kinds!

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear lights

17. Favorite Christmas song? I'm deaf and don't listen any songs but I know Jingle Bells song.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? In every other years, we travel either Florida or Kansas to spend with my hubby's family or Wisconsin to spend with my family. We stay home this year.

19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeers? Hmm hmmm....not really!

20. Angel or a star on the tree top? *blushing* Santa

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Eve

22. Where are your favorite places to shop? Well, any local gifts shop or cyper-shopping

23. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Crowded places at the mall and bad traffic

24. What I love most about Christmas? Sharing it with my dear hubby (and my family when we get together)

Did I miss anything?

2007-11-04T17:45:00.000-05:00

Oh yeah... no blog post in October!!! I'm so sorry for my long absence!

Yup... I'm very much ALIVE!! It's the same damned excuse. Work work work. I just fell out of rabbit hole and barely get out of "stormy" job. So much work to do and little time knitting. I thought things are quiet down after the fiscal year but due to budget problems, I was not able to hire three full time staff. Which means more work for me and my team!!! Sadly, I have to go back to "live" on campus tomorrow for another week.

OK, I know I don't have a big excuse for not blogging as regularly lately, but the real reason is ... RAVELRY!!! OMG!! OMG!! I feel like a little kid who can't stop playing with a new toy - it is amazing! I've overwhelmed. I am trying to get all my stash, projects, etc., to get pictures. I MUST get new camera as mine stinks!!. I enjoy reading their ideas with others who share similar interests in patterns or other outside interests. And I just keep gathering projects to the point where my head is about to explode from trying to figure out what I should make next! I wish I could quit my job and become full time knitter!!!

My code name is susanknits04 if anyone wants to add me to their network.

One of these days, I'll have a FO to show you!! Stay tuned!!

Happy Knitting!

What now?

2007-09-23T21:50:00.000-04:00

It's been 43 days since I last posted, but it really only felt like last week. Time seems to be flying by!

I am so happy to be saying goodbye to summer and welcome to autumn. I'm so ready to wearwarm clothes.

I'm so sad to report that I didn't knit much for a month so that's why I have nothing to share. Sad, isn't it?

BUT.....I have very good reason why I have decided to post my blog today! Today is my dad's BIRTHDAY!!!

Happy Birthday, Daddy!!! You look soooooo FABULOUS!!!

I love you, Daddy!!!

Where did the week go?

2007-08-11T09:29:00.000-04:00

It was soooo hard to go back to work last Monday after a blissful two weeks vacation. Yuck!! Ack!! Waaahhh!!! *sniffling* I'm sad that my vacation was so over! I really hate to feel"stressed" again especially getting ready for the new semester begins. This month will be "crazy" time of the year, especially getting involved in the trainings, making sure that all rooms in the residence halls are ready for new and returning students to check in, and classes will begin on August 26th!

I finally got my hair perm last week. I decided to let my hair grow longer this time. I'm happy with the result because I don't have to worry about spending a lot of time curling my hair.

One craft and one knitting Finished Objects.....

Here is the last project I completed with the painting on lamp cover from our Crazy Crowd Craft group's project. I lovelovelovelove it!!!! I will add buttons in the jar later.

I painted four different pictures on the wooden lampshade. This one is my favorite - birdhouse with twine and star.

"Tomato" by Wendy Bernard (Knitting Daily has a free pattern) I decided not to add second color for the stripe. I don't want to wear stripe top because I would look much wider!!

Wish my DH is home to take right pictures...it's hard to do it alone with long mirror! I really like the top so much...little bit heavy to wear it for summer but it would be perfect for cool weather. So easy to knit and it was my first time knitting top down project. I used three and half skeins of Cotton Fleece (Brown Sheep) yarn.

On the Needles......

Taos Cabled scarf - I brought two balls of Crystal Palace Yarns - Taos in Indianapolis. I saw the scarf display in the Mass. Ave Knit Shop and am in love with the textured look. I completed one ball on my birthday while my DH drove me down to southern part of West Virginia. I intend to complete the scraf on next road trip.

Montego Bay Scarf - I have the Debblie Bliss Pure Silk yarns that I brought in New Hampshire last June and thought the pattern is perfect for that yarn. I started it while the hairdresser fixed my hair. I didn't pick it up ever since I got home from hair perm.

Now, what's next?? I'm working on vest that I have been obsessed with cables lately. Good thing that I found the right yarns that I left them in the stash for years!

Veste Everest - Interweave Knit - Fall 2005
I'm using Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed yarns.

So far, this is my best knitting therapy ever since I go back to work last Monday.

I recieved the Interweave Knits in the mail last week. I found four patterns that I really want to knit.

I really love that sweater. I really want to use Peace Fleece yarns and I'm not sure if these yarns are right for that sweater. Guess I will have to check the gauge first.
So pretty...not sure if I have enough yarns from my stash.
Ohh ohhh...I really love cabled sock!! I believe I have two Green Mountain Spinnery Vermon Organic yarns in my craft room.
Yes, yes, yes!!! Definitely this will be on my list!!!! I think I may have same color of yarns in my stash!!!

Today, I'm so crafty mood especially want to make something for Halloween decorations. I received Create and Decorate magazine few days ago and found several patterns that I want to make. My DH is out riding with his friends to Little Orleans, WV for the weekend. Today should be a good day for me to spend some times with crafts, and will go out dinner with my friends.

Have a GREAT weekend and Happy Knitting!!!

Birthday Weekend Recap

2007-08-02T11:25:00.000-04:00

No knitting news this time but I promise I will post my latest knitting progress tomorrow. We went down to Morgantown, West Virginia. It was approximately 4 hours drive from our house. It is so nice about going on road trip because I have plenty of time knitting while my DH enjoys driving.

We stopped at Triple S - Harley Davidson where is the headquarter of the Bike Event.

Next to that store, there was a big fence around where huge dirty pig's home. Don't ask me why it is there next to the store. Really gross to look at it. Sorry that you have to see this!!!! Yup, it is much alive in case you may wonder!

We stopped at Mylan Park where there were vendors selling motorcyle stuff. The weather was so lousy. It rained all day on Friday It was my first time riding in the rain and I realized I didn't really enjoy it although my DH was very cautious about riding in the rain.

We went back to Triple-S Harley Davidson store on Saturday to witness Willie G and his wife, the grandson of William A. Davidson, one of the original founders of Harley-Davidson came to sign his name on the wall of the where the artist spent two years painting of him.

My DH (orange T-shirt) was so thrilled to see Willie G. and his wife, Nancy walking pass him.

We decided to go southern of West Virginia after spending three days in Morgantown. There was not much to see in this area.

We stopped in Elkins, WV and checked in the motel. The weather was not great but we decided to go out for afternoon riding. It was my BEST day for my birthday although it was raining all afternoon. The rain finally stopped and the sky cleared up on time for us to arrive. Real breathtaking view of Seneca Rock Mountain.

We spent half hour looking and looking at beautiful mountain.

Good thing that we have our raincoats to keep ourselves dry!

Beautiful view

Beautiful sky

We ahhhed and ooohhhhed watching the sky colors changed.

I really enjoyed my birthday weekend especially spending with my DH. I'm so glad that my DH took me there.

Crazy Crowd Crafts Group Recap

2007-08-01T00:38:00.000-04:00

Now, it's time for me to reveal what I made for my crazy friends. As part of our traditions, we made and exchanged the gifts, ornaments and pins. We celebrated our 10th year annivesary of our gathering. I'm very lucky to have three great friends who share passion of making crafts and lot of laughs.

Pins - It's amazing that you could see the face on the white part. I made three layers of clay and used rubber stamp with three different colors of ink on it.

I painted "Primitive Blessing" wood plague. Pineapple is one of my favorite collections.

Snowman ornaments (made of cloth)

Look what I got from my precious friends.......

Pineapple pin (sculpey) from Debbie

Flower pin (made of wool fabric) from Sharon
Pumpkin pin (made of sculpey) from Sue

Wool pumkin ornament (made of wool fabric) from Sharon

Primitive mitten ornament (made of fabric) from Sue

Santa ornament (made of sculpey) from Debbie

Sharon got me a beautiful Thanksgiving penny rug. (made of wool)

Debbie made sheep out of paper mache for us.

Sue made pumpkin with witch's boot (made of fabric and stuffing).

Aren't they beauty? I really can't wait to decorate them in the fall.

We spent three days and nights working on many projects. We made several projects for 4 days.

Primitive Heart with Kissing Crows

Jack O'Cattern

Annies Hugging

Bunny Penny Rug

Guordy Gang Penny Rug

We took a field trip to several stores. We even stopped two yarn shops - Knit Stop and Mass. Ave Knit Shop. I brought two Tao yarns for the scraf. My friends brought several yarns for the felted bag they saw at the display from the Mass. Ave Knit Shop. They were so lucky that the yarns were on sale.

Sue, Debbie, me and Sharon stopped at Cheesecake Factory for dinner and drinks.

They surprised me with the cake for my early birthday.

Last day of our gathering before we flew back home. We had so much fun and are looking forward to get together again next year at Sue's place.

One more project that I didn't finish. I'm going to finish it this week and will share the picture once I'm done.

Tomorrow, I will share with you some of really cool pictures of my trip to West Virginia with my DH.

No longer MIA!

2007-07-30T22:46:00.000-04:00

Just want to post to let you know that I'm back home three hours ago from a long wonderful trip in Indiana and West Virginia. I have so many things to do all week especially try to finish some unfinished projects that I worked with my crazy friends in Indiana and I intend to enjoy this week as part of my vacation till I go back to work next Monday.

There has been a bit of knitting (thanks to a road trip) so I'll have pictures to share with you soon!

VAAAAACATION!!!

2007-07-20T22:46:00.000-04:00

I'm taking two weeks off from work!! I really don't remember when I ever take two "straight" week off but I deserve this! It has been so stressful at work that I don't really want to talk about it.

So....what will I do for two weeks? Tomorrow morning, I will fly to Indianapolis with my friend, Sue for our annual CRAZY CROWD CRAFTS gathering. I worked so hard for last two weeks to complete the gifts for my crazy ladies. Part of our traditions, we exchange the gifts, ornaments and pins. All of the items HAVE to be handmade by us!! I can't not reveal to you what I made for my friends because they read my blog. (*Hello Sue, Debbie and Sharon*) So, I'm so ready for all the laughter, silly and make new projects with my friends.

Next Wednesday after my trip from Indianapolis, my DH and I will go to Morganstown, West Virginia for the Bike Event on my birthday weekend. It will be our "mini" vacation. My DH could not take two weeks off from work but can take few days off to celebrate my birthday weekend.

We will be back on Monday after my birthday weekend, I will have few days to myself - definitely get my haircut, clean out the clutter closets, update my blog and more knittings!

I really want to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my sweet sister, Kimbo!!!!

This is my FAVORITE picture that I took it last June when my DH and I went up to visit my family. She looks soooooo FABULOUS for 47 years old!!! I love you with my whole HEART, Kimbo!!!!!! Happy Birthday!!!!

Have a GREAT weekend!!! Happy Knitting and Stay Cool!!!!

Help!

2007-07-15T19:38:00.001-04:00

I don't know what happened to my previous post... no pictures appeared. I could not figure out what did I do wrong. Help me!

I just got back from a weekend harley trip to Shenandoah Valley. We had a GREAT time!

Yup, I'm knitting a new project and didn't finish seaming the lace top yet. Shame on me!!!

I gotta go to do the laundry now.

GREAT anniversary weekend for us!

2007-07-03T21:16:00.000-04:00

I do so love a road trip.

I was so sick with bad colds and sore throat last week and didn't go to work for two days. I slept all day instead of knitting.

My DH asked me if we could get out of the house for the anniversary weekend and go somewhere in Pennyslvania by car. He thought I would feel better once I get out of the house. I thought we were supposed to go to Lancaster but my DH decided to wander to unknown back roads in PA. Good thing that we have our GPS. (I can't live without it!!!) I had no ideas where he plans to go but I trust him as long as he allowed me to knit.

Knitting project was on my lap in the car all day on Saturday! I finished the back piece on Friday night. Working on front piece was faster. I had my personal note to be sure that I knitted the two front pieces match perfectly.

I laughed so hard when my DH stopped the interaction and acted silly. He exaggerately said to me "Look left...look right....look left again!" without knowing that there is a sign posted up! I wish I could take a picture of my DH's facial expression when I pointed the sign. At first, I thought he saw the sign and acted silly but he didn't know anything about the sign. Spooky!!!

The weather was so perfect. Real cool and less humid.

We went on back roads all the way from our house to somewhere in the PA. Real relaxing trip.

Pretty view up the air!

A lot of curve roads!

Driving toward the sun facing us.

See the GPS - warn us to expect a lot of curve roads.

Beauty clouds!

A lot of trees around us!

We decided to stop in Lewistown, PA for dinner. We spotted a real nice local restaurant as we passed by the bridge and noticed that there were a lot of people eating on the porch by the restaurant. We decided to go back and stopped at the Waterfront Tavern.

When we entered in the restaurant, the hostess asked us if we had our reservation. I told the hostess that we were out of state and passed by this place. She told us she would see if she could squeeze us in the spot as there were so many people there. We waited for ten minutes and she brought us perfect spot on the porch. She warned us that it was busy night because of the firework event. She told us that we could see the firework from the spot we sat. We were so thrilled that she made us our night so special.

DH had hard time making decision on what he would like to order.

I had no problem picking out what I want to drink and eat for dinner.

I had Lump Crab Cakes with a lot of vegetables. Sooooooo DELICIOUS!!!!!!!!!!

We were so stunned that we had a real PERFECT view to fireworks.

We had our desserts and watched the fireworks for 30 minutes. So romantic for our 18th year annivesary! We stayed at the hotel in State College - only 5 blocks from Penn State Universary.

On Sunday , we spend all morning strolling around the campus at Penn State and had a lunch in downtown of State College.

On way back home, we stopped at the Harley Davidson store.

Driving back home from State College was so nice and the weather was perfect! I was sooooo thrilled that I finished all pieces of Surplice Lace top.

Next, some seams and a neckband and it'll be done. Maybe tomorrow or this weekend...depend on how I feel. I'm still coughing.

Wish you all a happy Fouth of July!!!!!
And HAPPY KNITTING!!!!!

Today is the day........

2007-07-01T22:37:00.000-04:00

July 1, 1989

I married my best friend in the world. He was and is and shall always be my real soulmate. He is my true lover and my life and I will have no other. A toast to 18 wonderful years, my love!!!

We just got back from our wonderful trip tonight. Will definitely update you about our trip and knitting news this week. Good news! I finished all pieces!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Knitting!!!!

Blah day!!!

2007-06-28T17:44:00.000-04:00

It's HOT and HUMID day! Arrrgghh...I have real bad sore throat and ear aches! I slept all day today. Bummer, it would be a great day to stay home and knit but I didn't have any energy to knit.

Here is the knitting news.....

So far, I completed the back and front pieces. I'm still working on back bodice. Boring stockinette stitch. I wish I could purl faster but I'm slow with purling. I really love the Frog Tree 100% pima cotton so much!!

Beauty lace work on two pieces of lower body.

I hope I will feel better by tomorrow. We are supposed to go on a trip to Lancaster, PA. this Saturday for our anniversary weekend.

Stay cool and Happy Knitting!

Where do I begin??

2007-06-19T10:52:00.000-04:00

***** Today is June 25th... it took me a week to post it up due to Comcast internet acted up!**

Warning - very little knitting news, few words and long post!!

I'm still trying to get back to normal after being away for one week vacation. Vacation in Boston and Laconia, New Hampshire were so awesome. The trip was smooth and the weather were so unbelieveable perfect!!!

I took over 300 pictures and I picked out some photos to share with you.

My DH hooked up the trailer to his SUV.

My main man with a serious mission SMILED.

Knitting kept me busy on the road.

We stopped in Boston visiting my family. Aren't they look wonderful!

Bob and Anna are so wonderful couples I ever met. They welcomed my family to stay in their house since March when my sister is recovering from the major surgery. My sister ends up living there for a while. We helped my sister moving her stuff from her apartment (which the lease is soon expired) to Bob/Anna's house. My sister is truly very lucky to have Bob and Anna as her friends.

After staying with my family for three days, we headed up to Laconia, New Hampshire. More knitting for me.

Close up on lace pattern - so easy to memorize the pattern

We arrived in Gilford, New Hampshire where we reserved the campground at Gunstock. The place is really WOW!!!! Imagine that the place is famous for ski resort.

No snow!!!

Wild horses on the loose up the mountain.

Our new "temporary" home for 5 nights.

A lot of people attened to Hillclimb event nearby our campground. The weather was not too great. I don't know why the people were so crazy about going there. We found it very boring because individual dirt bikers rode up the mountain (one by one) instead of the group of bikers raced up the mountain.

We sat down and watched for hours trying to keep ourselves dry.

We were at the Headquarters Bike Rally.

We stopped at the "heart" of the bike rally in Weirs Beach where thousands and thousands bikers meet.

Nice welcome banner for us the bikers.

Bikers were everywhere in the town.

My DH rocks!!!! I spotted the stores when we rode down the road. I begged my DH to pull over and stop these stores. He was so happy to pull over and rested for awhile while I shopped.

Don't I look thrilled? Lucky me, I'm in front of Patternworks.

Look what I brought - Lush (angora and wool) - great for gloveless

Pure Cashmere by Debble Bliss - I'm thinking of knitting a nice scarf.

Beautiful day to ride!

So nature!!!

By the lake

Trip to Mount Washington

Part of the Bike Week, the roads to Mount Washington are closed to cars/trucks except for motorcycles. I guess we were so naive and were not familiar with the history of the Mt. Washington. We followed the bikers up the roads and realized that we went way way way up to the top of the mountain. The higher we went up, I was so freak out and my DH was so nervous riding up to very steep and narrow roads. I could not look down the hill as I was so scared. The road was only 7 miles up to the top of the mountain. We were on the highest mountain of the East.

We survived!!!! I was so proud of my DH that he made it to the top of the mountain. I was so tempted to tell him to go back down while we were in the middle of riding up there. I told myself not to give up. I thought I held my breath till I turned blue but I know I'm not helping my DH.

We were at 6,288 feet. We were so lucky that the weather was so clear but it was 40 degrees up there. Brrrrrrr..... there are few patches of snow around the mountains.

Breathtaking view!!!

After staying in the area for more than 30 minutes, we were so ready to ride down the mountain. You could see the bikers down the road.

More bikers rode up and we went down the hill.

We finally made to the ground. It was amazing that the temperature was 85 degrees on the ground level. My DH was so pooped out so fast from all the stress riding down the hill for 7 miles.

We rode over 225 miles in one day. So beautiful view especially we watched the sunset while we were riding back to the campground

Aaaahhhhh.... don't you love the campfire?

Next day, we spend over 145 miles riding around several lakes. Did you know that the Town of Wolfboro is famous for the America's oldest summer resort? I didn't know till we passed the town.

I knitted every night as much as I can till the campfire died down.

Last day of the Bike Week - more and more people came at Wiers Beach.

The weather was very HOT and HUMID just like DC!!! So fantastic to see the cloud.

Soooooo small WORLD - Patrick (left) was my DH's college classmate, Skipper (next to Patrick) was my college friend, Warren (middle) was my sister's housemate 15 years ago, Ken (fourth person) is the guy's wife grew up with me and my sister in Wisconson and of course, my DH!! It was amazing that we met them and knew them from different places.

I really love that trees. So different than in Maryland. You could see that trees everywhere in New Hampshire. It reminds me of that trees in Hawaii.

Yike!!!! Sock/Boots + Heat = RASH!!!! Seems that I'm allergic wearing sock in the heat!!!

*sniffling* The vacation is OVER!!! We got up at 6 am and packed up together to get ready to go back to reality!!!

We stopped in Boston to see my family for a few hours, especially taking my family out for lunch for Father's Day.

The trip back to Maryland was nightmare for us due to heavy traffic and road construction. I finished the back piece and started working on front piece slowly.

Since we arrived back, it took us few days to unpack and wash clothes. I have not touch my knitting project for a week.

Review coming soon - knitting news!

VAAAAACATION!!!

2007-06-08T19:49:00.000-04:00

We're off tomorrow morning! I can't wait to see my family tomorrow for the weekend before we go up to New Hampshire!

I have every second accounted for right now - there is A LOT of work to clean the house, pack up and collect my knitting projects and books before we hit the road!

I had a rough week at work and it's hard for me to get out of work today but I deserve to enjoy my week next week. This is a true vacation, though, so I can't wait on spending every second with my DH for a week.

Good news, the yarn I ordered from The Yarn Tree arrived yesterday. Perfect timing!! I can't wait to knit the summer top tomorrow morning!

Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Knitting!!!

Sloooooowwwww progress and Eventful Day!!!

2007-06-03T19:31:00.000-04:00

Grrrr...don't you hate when you spent an hour to upload the pictures and typed long message and discovered that the post is gone forever. Well it happened to me!

Here it is as I promised..... long lost Textured Cardigan sweater that I'm knitting soooo sloooowww!!! I started knitting it last February and now it's June 3rd, I'm still knitting same project!! How sad!!

I have to admit that this project is really boring but I'm determined to finish it soon. I realized that I'm out of the yarn. I ordered three more yarn last night through online. I don't think I will finish them before we go on vacation starting this Saturday.

I'm on sleeve islands.

I washed the front and back pieces last night.

I blocked the pieces on my blocking board.

Another *sad and slow* progress!!! Squall Sock that I started last February, too.

Close up!

Like I said earlier, we will go on vacation real soon. We will go up to Boston visiting my family for the weekend then we will go up to Laconia, New Hampshire for the Bike Event.

I need to bring my knitting project with me. I saw Jenn's completed project. I'm in love with...

Surplice Lace Top from Nashua Handknits

I thought Natural Focus Ecologie Cotton yarn is really pricey. I checked other yarn and found the color yarn of 100% pima cotton I really like. I ordered them right away and hope they will be here this week. I really want to make summer top.

--------------
What did we do yesterday on beautiful day? All we heard the police sirens sound blaring all day along with a dog barking and barking!!!

We were involved in 11th Annual Leesburg Police Motorcyle Poker Run. The run benefits the Virginia Special Olympics.

A police motor escort departs at 8:30, and participants can ride along all day till 3 p.m.

How did it work? A poker run is where you travel around a planned route with planned stops. At each stop, you draw a card. At the end of the run, each participant has a full poker hand.

The Annie's Mexican Restaurant catered breakfast, and Red Hot & Blue provided lunch. The run ended at 3 p.m., with prizes awarded immediately after. The person with the best poker hand will receive $300 donated by Leesburg-area businesses; the second-best hand will receive men's and women's Belair Swiss watches donated by Ketterman's Jewelers; and the third-best hand will receive a 20-inch flat-screen color television donated by Leesburg Wal-Mart. More than 85 door prizes will be awarded from area businesses.

This year we raised over $12,000 with over 450 motorcyclists participating.

We met at Leesburg Fire Department at 7:30 a.m. for registration and breakfast.

The policemen on motorcycles escorted us out to four different places to play poker.

Our first stop was in Gettsyburg, Pennyslvania.

Over 450 bikers were involved following the police.

The biker brought his dog along. That dog barked and barked all day! You could hear it all the way behind us.

Awwww....the couple brought their little cute dog.

The biker brought his parrot along with him. I wish I could snap it closer. The big blue parrot is sitting on his shoulder. It was amazing that the parrot didn't fly away.

Police motorcycles parking on the front of the bikers.

Bikers riding down the road.

We stopped in 4th run place at Emmitsburg.

We headed back to Leesburg Fire Department on Route 15.

The trip was so nice and fun! We definitely will come back next year.

A large group of deaf bikers!

I better go back and finish the sleeves. Happy Knitting!!!

Two Weekends on Biking!

2007-05-27T20:20:00.000-04:00

I finally made time to download a lot of pictures on my laptop. Over 150 pictures!! I picked out few pictures to show you, especially my family and friends who read my blog. *hand waving* Hi family and friends!!!! Not much knitting but spent a lot of time biking with my DH last weekend and this weekend.

We went down to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for Bike Rally last weekend. We were so overwhelmed from seeing sooooo many bikers around the city from day to night for last four days!! It was our very first rally.

Here’s my sweet DH at the wheel: a big man with a mission!

We arrived at the campground at 11 pm. It was raining and we could not find the campground site for 45 minutes. Our friend rescued us and leaded us to the site where our friends stayed. No way for us to set up the tent because it rained so hard. We slept in back of SUV. Good thing that we left our stuff in the trailer and it was plenty of room for us to sleep in the back.

What a wonderful teamwork. Our friends were so thrilled to help us to set up our tent.

Our sweet little home! Yup, it's Harley Davidson tent that my DH could not resist!!!

Our little site with three tents and one canopy along with four bikes.

Ready to go for the day!! Big thumb up!!!

Our first stop in Harley Davidson store near our campground but we spent there ALLLL day!!! Many vendors set up around the store.

After shopping around the vendors, we rode back down the street. So many lurkers rooted the bikers!

We stopped the Dog House bar and watched the crazy performers showed off their bikes. Really scary to watch but they were so pro!!!

We walked over to the beach from the campground to smell the beach water and air! So beautiful view and the weather was so great!!.

We met wonderful couple from Kentucky. We became fast friends and spent all weekend with them.

Group of friends stayed with us for the weekend!! We spent all day riding around the towns and stopped a cute local southern restaurant for lunch.

Reflection of me on my DH's helmet!

Poor DH, he was so sad to see the event was over already. We definitely go back next year!!!

TODAY -
We went to Thunder Rolling Event at Washington DC

We rode over to Frederick Harley Davidson place where we meet a lot of bikers this morning.

We, the bikers rode down on Route 270 to Washington, DC.

Friendly people waving and rooting for us!!

Bikers were behind us following to the DC mall.

Group of police bikers started the event.

We sat and watched the bikers passing us for a few hours. Good thing that we brought our lawn chairs and found a perfect spot to view the bikers. Wish we were under the shade but we survived hot and humid day. Seems that I was only person bringing my knitting bag and knitted the sock. It was so funny watching people standing behind me watching me knit. I bet they may think I'm either nut or brave!!

We may go out bike riding this weekend and will definitely go up to New Hampshire for the Bike Rally next month. We will stop in Boston to visit my family for a few days.

Now, I'm sure that you are curious what is the updated status of my knitting progress. No much accomplished but still working on sleeves. I promise that there will be more knitting photos coming up soon.

Have a GREAT Memorial weekend! Stay cool!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Apparently, posting once a month is my new thing...

2007-05-15T20:16:00.000-04:00

... because I just looked at the blog and realized that it will have been almost exactly one month since I last blogged. *sigh* Well, I’ve been so swamped with work this past few weeks, really swamped. I have been neglected with my knitting projects. *I'm so shocked at myself* I feel like I've had an unproductive month but I did manage to get my cross-stitching project done and read 10 books in two weeks! I was in "reading" marathon mood that I got several good books that I borrowed from the library.

Oh oh...I went to Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival with my friends, Jerri Lyn and Caroline. We had fabulous time! We went out for breakfast at Eggspectations before we headed over to the fairground. We spent all day and came back to my house for cookout dinner. Other friends came down later in the evening to watch Pay Per View boxing game till 1 a.m. Soooo much fun!!!!

Jerri Lyn (left) and Caroline (right)

Awww.... don't you love their hairdos????

**BAAA....take me home!*** I'm in love with that cute one!!!

Sheep at Barber Shop!

This one is my favorite picture. Jerri Lyn and Caroline could not keep their eyes off from little lambs.

This little aggressive lamb pushed other lambs away from the hay!

What???? That woman was spinning angora right off the rabbit! I was joking with Jerri Lyn and Caroline that I'm afraid that the yarn somehow twisting up and getting caught and the bunny getting sucked into the wheel! Ouch! But that rabbit looked so calm to me. Isn't it??

What did I buy at MSW this year? I decided not to spend more yarns because I have sooo much stash but two things I could not resist!!!!

My own fair ilse sweater kit that I have been eyeballing for last three years. The tote bag came with the kit.

I don't expect to start knit the sweater right away. Hopefully I will start knitting it this winter.

I found that yarn to match the vest I was working on for my DH last fall.
Poor vest, it has been so neglected since January!!

In past two weekends, I went out with my DH riding Harley Davidson. The more we travelled around the towns, I really enjoy so much. We will head down to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina this Thursday for a long weekend to join with our Harley friends for the Myrtle Beach Bike Rally. It should be fun!! I'm really looking forward to it because of a long trip - which means more knitting time!!! I'm sooooooooo slow with the sleeves for the Textured Cardigan that I started last February. I hope I will accomplish two sleeves this weekend.

Will be back next week with more pictures of our trip in Myrtle Beach and (hopefully) final pieces of cardigan.

Happy Knitting!!!!

I'm back with good news!!

2007-04-16T21:59:00.000-04:00

I got back from Boston yesterday. My week with my family was so great and I'm sad to see it to end already. My sister's recovery from major surgery two weeks ago was so unbelievable amazing. She is so strong person I ever seen. I really am so proud of her. The result from the biospy was non-cancerous. We are sooooo relieved and knew that the prayers have been answered. She has to take the medicine to kill the cancer cells for 12 weeks and hope it will disappear. Say extra prayers for my sister's recovery would be much appreicated!

While I was in Boston, I was so sick with bad cough and sinus colds. I feel so bad that my parents were so worried about me beside taking care of my sister. I ended up going to ER last Wednesday and was treated for bronchitis and sinusitis. I finally felt better after taking antibodies.

Now my mother is sick with bad cough and so my husband!!! Really nasty germs around the cities!!! Go away, nasty bugs!!! We don't need you!!!

Knitting news will be coming up soon this week.

Take care and happy knitting!!!

P.S. Say Happy Birthday to my good friend, Kerry.

A Quick Update....

2007-04-08T23:09:00.000-04:00

First of all, thanks to everyone who commented (publicly and privately) on the last post. The surgery went very well and my sister is home resting to recover from the surgery. I finally saw her through videophone last Friday. I was so happy to see her doing pretty good. She will see her doctor to find out the result of biopsy this Tuesday. I pray that the result is favorable fo her.
Today, my DH and I called through videophone with my parents and Kimbo to say Happy Easter... Very cool to see my family especially they are 600 miles away from here. Aren't they darling?

Even more exicting news, I will fly up to Boston tomorrow morning to see my sister, Kimbo and my parents for a few days. I can't wait!!!! Poor DH, he wish to join with me but he has to work. I will definitely see him through videophone everyday when I'm in Boston.

I really want to thank Kerry for sending me a BEAUTIFUL Sol Joy yarn. I actually cried when I opened the package last week. Last week was really rough and I was really down worrying about my sister. Kerry sure made my day so special. I really love the yarn. I cuddled and fondled it while watching tv show for two hours. I definitely am going to use this to make socks.

Thank you, Kerry from the bottom of my heart!!!

Definitely more knitting time during my trip to Boston!! I hope I will finish the sleeves for the sweater that I've been neglecting them for a while. I really want to finish the blue sweater for February/March Project Spectrum. I'm so ready to move on new project - green sweater!!!

Hope you all have a wonderful Easter with your families.

Say a Little Prayer for my Sister

2007-03-29T22:08:00.000-04:00

My sister will have surgery tomorrow morning. I could not be there fo her tomorrow but my parents are with her. I will fly up to Boston to see them next week.

Please join me to say a little prayer or send a positive vibe for my sister's speedy recovery.

Much appreciated!

I'm looking forward to new month as this month is pretty rough for me. Too many crisis distract me from knitting and sleeping. I can't wait to finish the sweater that I have been working since last month. Real slow progress but I'm on sleeves island.

Sorry, I've been MIA!

2007-03-06T21:12:00.000-05:00

Blogging will resume eventually. I will be back when I find right words that I could not describe right now. My mind is with my family right now, especially my sister.

Snowy Valentine's Day

2007-02-14T09:42:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Snow day! I have to admit that I am so pathetic. When I was a kid, I would wake up early and sit in front of the TV in my pajamas & watch while the school closings were announced. I'm now (sadly) 45 years old and nothing has changed. I was so shocked that my University opens at 10 am today (almost all of other universities in DC are closed!!) My street isn't even plowed at all!

My DH drove to work this morning and told me to STAY HOME!!! He said many roads are not plowed and he struggled to get through some icy spots. Sooooo guess what I plan to do today??? Of course, stay home and KNITTING!!!

I started knitting the front left piece last night.

The back piece is done!

Pretty textured one (sorry, it's dark)

The snowman is happy and wish you a Happy Knitting!!!

Ice Storm!

2007-02-13T22:55:00.000-05:00

Today we are having an ice storm! It was sort of flurries and drizzling sleet all day and the University closed at 2:00pm. I didn't leave my office till 3:30 pm. The traffic was hideous but I'm glad that I got home safely. There is a bad sleet/icy storm coming down on us tonight and tomorrow morning.

Hope the University will close tomorrow so I can knit all day! I finished the back piece of Textured Cardigan. Woo hoo!!! My camera battery died! No photo tonight! *pout*

Stay warm and Happy Knitting!!!

So slow.....and

2007-02-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

It's Been A Long Week!!

Too much going on at work, too much stress, I've been on overload for awhile and thing keep on piling up. My boss was out of town attending conference all week and he asked me to be the deputy during his absence. Few crisis at work and they took a lot of my time to resolve these issues. I was so glad that two situations were resolved last Friday. Big whew!!!!

My poor DH was sick with bad colds for last four days. He feels little better yesterday and is up doing the errands in the house. In past few days, he needed my full attention, my cooing sounds, my sympathy and my cooking but I was stuck at work during the day time. I was so good taking care of him at night. He is a brave man and a good husband when he’s sick, he wants some good old-fashioned mothering. Sighs!!! But he survived!!! *knocking the wood* I'm perfectly fine.

Update on the needles - Textured Cardigan

So slow progress..... although the instruction is very easy to follow but I knit very slow on every fourth row and knit fast on first three rows. Make knot takes me forever!!!! Purl 3 together and leave stitch on left needle, yarn over, purl 3 together again and slip from needle. Wish I could knit faster but my right waist is really bothering me.

Interweave Knits- Spring 2007 arrrived in my mailbox last Friday. I really *love* the new layout and look. It's very clean and easy to look at.

This caught my eyes and I really want to knit it!!! This will add on my future project list.

Oh oh...I forgot to show you my FO for this month Project Spectrum last week. Monkey Socks! I lovelovelove them so much!!! So soft yarn!!

Pattern: Monkey socks
Source: Knitty
Yarn: 100% merino fingering/sock weight from Woolarina Handpaints.
Needle: Addi Turbo 12" circular needle/Clover DPNs - size 2

Stay warm!!! Happy Knitting!!!

I made it!!!

2007-02-01T11:10:00.000-05:00

It took me two days to switch to new verison of new blogspot!! Whew!!! Hope this new version is more friendly than the old one.

Will post the FO photo tonight!

Stay warm...it supposed to be snow/sleet today!

I have a confession to make....

2007-01-30T23:05:00.000-05:00

That's my new project, "Textured Cardigan". I had the Nashua Handknits: Vacation book with me to study and get ready for this Thursday Project Spectrum and suddenly I just couldn't take it any more, I had to cast on yesterday!

Dang... blurry photo!!!

Karabella Aurora 8 yarn is soooooooooooo nice to knit!!! Unbelieveable soft!!! I really enjoy knitting it so far! I could not put it down as I really enjoy fondling the yarn.

Now... I have massive headache!!! I have trouble to switch to new version of blogger for last two days. I have google email address but it won't show up on my new blogger account. I spent two hours trying to figure it out!!! I hate it when I feel soooooo dumb trying to figure it out. Right now, I tempt to find a good hammer - hmmmm should I bang on my head or my laptop!!!??? Grrrrr!!!!!!!!! Hopefully, someone can help me out with this new verison.

Happy Knitting!!!

Decisions, decisions.......

2007-01-27T17:08:00.000-05:00

I don't know what to do.... Seems that things go wrong for me!! Two "still" UFOs!!

Three weeks ago, I called Mountain Spinnery about the right skein for the Artist's vest. The man on the phone suggested me to send him the sample yarn I used for the vest. I have not heard anything since. I emailed them last Wednesday and learned that they have not received my letter. They suggested me to send another one. Dang...Where is my letter???? I really want to finish the vest for my DH. Grrr!!!

This looks so sad waiting for me to finish it!

I was that close to finish the Everyday Cardigan. I brought a skein from Stitches East as I was afraid that I may run out of that color. It's confirmed that I'm out of the yarn. I was so relieved that I brought the extra one.

BAD news: the color is NOT match!!! Mine is more purple than blue but the skein I brought has more blue than purple. I was in debate whether I go ahead and hope that no one would notice it. I brought the purple yarn along with the skein outside. It is not even close match at all. I know that Future Green carry Peace Fleece yarns in DC. I went there with my friend. I'm so sad that they don't have that color I need but they do have many other colors. I was that close to buy these yarns to make future projects. I'm really proud myself that I said NO - not this time!!

Can you see the difference? I thought so!!

More BAD news: I am not able to finish the Everyday Cardigan. I have to knit the 4x4 sample and send it to Maine where I ordered the skeins. I know it will take time to get the skein. *pout*

Now.... I signed up - Project Spectrum 2.0 again this year! It will kick off on February 1st!

February / March - Blue, White, Gray
April / May- Green, Yellow, Pink
June / July - Red, Black, Metallics
August / September - Brown, Orange, Purple

You know, this all sounds like so much fun, but since I am the world's biggest procrastinator it makes me the worst for starting too many projects at same time and never finish each of them on time. Project Spectrum could put me on the road to being more organized, sooooo I did my homework!! (Jerri Lyn, are you shocked?? - okay, I need your help to be sure that I'm not off the wagon!) I looked up my stash enhancement and went through some of my favorite yarn books. I would like to knit one pair of socks every month. I really hope that I will be able to knit 3 or 4 sweaters this year (my UFO doesn't count)

Here is my plan for February.
I found the right color for January socks.
Lorna's Lace hand-dyed yarn - "Jean" - very appropriate color!

I have not decided which pattern I plan to use for the sock. I printed out several patterns and will review the patterns carefully to determine which one is right for that yarn.

Since I brought Nashua Handknits: Vacation book last fall, I'm in love with the Textured Cardigan. I have 10 balls of Karabella Aurora 8 (navy blue) that I got from my colleague for Xmas last year. Definitely this will be my first sweater for the Project Spectrum. I plan to start knitting it this Thursday, February 1st! (I'm soooo excited!)

Future Projects - I hope to knit....

Lace Cardigan - Modern Classics by Louise Harding (will plan to buy "red" angora yarns at MSWF for June or July)
Isfjordan (fair isle sweater) by Dalegarn (I have Tuir yarns - for March)
Bristow by Knitty (I have Peruvian Highland Wool (moss) for April
Anya by Jo Sharp - Book 5 (not determined which color - not top priority but future project)

I will post my list of Future "Sock" Projects soon. Please do share with me your favorite patterns of sock. I'm open for any challenges.

I better get dinner ready. Happy Knitting!!!

Two Reasons Why I'm smiling right now!!

2007-01-21T15:42:00.000-05:00

It?s Snowing!!!! This is what greeted us at 12:30 p.m. this afternoon, when I looked out the window.

Finished Object!!!!

KOLSVA SWEATER

Pattern: "Kolsva" from Noro Revisited
Designer: Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton
Yarn: Noro Kochoran #17 colorway
Needles: Size US 9 (Lantern Moon straight needles and Addi Turbo circular needle)
Started: December 28, 2006
Finished: January 22, 2007

I tried it on and it fits me just fine! I'm so self-conscious with the horizontal strips top that make me look so big! I think I would look better if I lose 20-30 lbs. I really like the cowl one so much.
My final thought about Kolsva sweater - it was so quick and easy. I would recommend any new knitter to try this. I would mind to knit it again with the solid color. Maybe I would go for tweed brown yarns. Hmmm....I'm going to add on my wishlist!

Sorry, it's blurry and dark! I tried to get it more clear several times but no luck. My own label tag for my sweater!!! "Hand Knits With Love By: Susan Hanrahan" I ordered the label tag two years ago. I could not remember which company but I know it was from England. I forgot all about the label tags till I cleaned the drawer two weeks ago. Perfect timing!!! I sewed the labels on my green "everyday cardigan" and Kolsva sweater.

Now....what's next??? I think the purple "Everyday Cardigan" is screaming for my attention!!

Stay warm and Happy Knitting!!!!

No Snow but BRRRRR!!!!!!

2007-01-20T19:22:00.000-05:00

Hey, it's actually somewhat cold here yesterday and today (compared to last week when we had record high temperatures). It was in the 20s (Fahrenheit) this morning. Brrrrrr!!!! No snow, yet!!!

I'm so happy that I finally finished FO last night! I brought the buttons on my way home after work last night and was so excited to sew the buttons up on my cardigan. I'm relieved that the sweater fits me fine....only I wish I added 2 more inches on front and back pieces because I'm tall.

My own Everyday Cardigan that I neglected for a year and half!!!!

Pattern: Everyday Cardigan
Source: Peace Fleece
Yarn: Peace Fleece worsted weight yarns
Needle: Addi Turbo Size #6 and #8

I really love the yarns so much and the color is great! The pattern is very easy to follow. I have the purple ones that are waiting for me to finish the sleeves.

Well, I'm not going to knit the sleeve tonight. I'm going to seam the Kolvsa pieces tonight after dinner! Wish me good luck!

Please send positive vibes here for snow!!!!

Happy Knitting and Stay warm!!!

Okay...I'm so lousy in blogging but more news to share....

2007-01-16T15:54:00.000-05:00

Seems that I'm having trouble open my blog lately. The new verison blogger is now giving me the option of switching over but I'm afraid to lose all of my old posts. For a person who has technology challenge, I have very little faith in the technology sometimes.

So anyway, here are some news-newsy....

My DH was so proud of me that I decided to put down all Xmas tree and decorations last Saturday. I normally take tree down on the day of Superbowl Day. Sighs!!... so plain here but I've added all the snowmen collection around the house. Still feel so festive in the house!

Move over Santas....snowmen are here!!!!

Call me CRAZY!!!? I do miss snow so much. No snow here since last February 2006! So strange that we had warm temperature lately. I actually had cookout dinner last weekend! I do hope that we have some snow this year!!!

First Finished Object for the Year....

Calorimetry
I completed it in two days two weeks ago. I thought this would be a great gift for my friend's daughter who will turn 18 years old next month. She loves to wear scraf on her head. I used Magallanes 100% Wool - Hand dyed by Aracucania Yarns (Chile). Very soft yarn and pretty green shades.

I decided to make one more Calorimetry along with Fetching that match with the head scarf. I really love them so much. I'm sure that my friend's daughter would love them.
Yarn: Araucania Nature Wool
Color: Black (code #11)
Needles: Denise needles size 8 for the calorimetry and size 6 for the fingerless gloves

I will definitely make more in the future.

Everyday Cardigan

I'm soooo ALMOST done!!! I finally seamed them up and added button bands. No buttons yet!!! I need to go to the store and buy some buttons. I'm so glad that I finally got around to finish it after neglecting it for a year and half!! Isn't that shame? I don't know why I didn't pick it up right away last year/
.
I promise you that I will have my DH taking picture of me wearing it as soon as I get the buttons.

Update on Kolvsa sweater...the pieces are blocking now!

Two weeks ago, I was knitting it like a madwoman. I realized that I messed up the front piece. I was supposed to add 2 inches longer like I did for the back piece. I had to RIPPPPPPPPPP and knitted it up fast. Another major "very same" mistake on front piece again!!! I was so MAD and RIPPPPPPPED it all over. I put it away for a week. Last Sunday, I finally picked it up and knitted it slowly and carefully. The pieces look so right this time. I soaked and blocked the pieces last night. Geez...these pieces were sooo harsh smell that I could not describe. Trust me, it was so nasty smell. I resoaked the pieces in the sink for a while with some wool soap this afternoon. Seems the smell is better now. I can't wait to seam them up and knit the cowl piece together....definitely this weekend!!!

On the Needles....

Here's the progress on the first Monkey sock, all ready for the "kitchener" stitching. This project is very fast and easy to memorize. I purchased the yarn from Woolarina last year. Very lovely yarn!

Knitting Books
With the money my in-laws gave me for Christmas last month, I bought these three knitting books from Amazon.

I used "post-it" on some pages for my future projects. A lot of "ohhhhs" and "ahhhhhs" there!!

Better go and watch the audition parts in "American Idol" in a few minutes. I'm going to knit the second sock after finishing the kitchener stitch on first sock.

Happy Knitting!!!

We want to say.....

2007-01-06T00:59:00.000-05:00

TO

my MOM!!!!!!!

Mom, May your day be as wonderful as you would wish it to be! May you have everything in life that makes you smile...

You're a beautiful person and you deserve all the happiness in the world and more. We love you with all our hearts and wish we could be there to bake you a cake. We hope you had a happy, happy birthday, Mom.

Happy 2007!!!

2007-01-01T11:40:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year from our house to yours!!

My Last Post Of 2006

2006-12-31T13:39:00.000-05:00

Last Meme in the Year of 2006's End Knit

1. What is your absolute favorite project you've ever knit (one that fulfilled both process and product)?
I think it might be lace shawl. I loved the process. Kiparoo Farm yarn is amazing.

2. Which of your handknits do you wear the most often?

Embossed Leaves Socks from Interweave Knits: Winter 2005 I really love Lorna's Lace Shepard yarn!!! So soft and stretchy!

3. Which of your handknits are you most proud of?
Traditional Hat, headband and mittens

4. What was your favorite gift to knit?
Mason Dixon discloths and premie hats!

5. Which of your handknits are gathering dust your closet?

Definitely bathrug from Mason Dixon book! It was fun knitting with but I realized that the rug is tooo colorful for our bathroom. I would probably give it away or put it in the basement bathroom.

6. Which of your handknits have you gotten rid of?
I have not get rid of anything this year.

7. If you've knit socks, what is your favorite pattern?
Child's First Sock in Shell Pattern from Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush

8. What would you like to make in 2007?

I want to learn how to knit toe-up socks and dye the yarn.

9. What have you learned about your craft in 2006?

Fair Isle knitting was the big thing for me this year - I stopped fearing it, and really enjoyed knitting it.

10. What events/sites have you particularly enjoyed in the blogosphere in 2006?

I really love Lolly's Project Spectrum. The celebration of color really had an positive impact on my knitting choices. I actually knitted 14 pairs of socks!! I also joined Red-Hot-Sizzling-Socks, The Amazing Lace Kal, Mason-Dixon Kal, Lollyknitting's Sockoberfest , and Stranded: The Colorwork Challenge. The KAL kept me going with the knitting and I sure had a lot of fun!!!

***drumroll, please!!*****

Knitting Resolutions for 2007
Finish five ?unfinished? projects (posted in 12/29/06)
Knit from my stash!!!
Make fair isle sweater that I ordered the yarns few weeks ago.
Destash yarn through Ebay and/or destash.blogspot.com
Learn to knit toe-up sock

I hope you all have a very happy and safe New Year's.

Knitting List of Shame

2006-12-29T16:52:00.000-05:00

SHAME

This past week after cleaning up my craft room was a real wakeup call about just how out of control my yarns has gotten. I have too many yarns, needles and books all over in the house and there was nowhere I could stick all the yarn, no matter how hard I tried to hide it! My DH is pretty disgusting about the huge mess that is our living room, but I was really embarrassed to let other people see it . . . which led to a lot of serious thinking and planning that led to me to make serious list!!!

Here?s the Knitting List of Shame:

1. Everyday cardigan (green one) ?Button and neck bands needs to be made and ends sewn in. SO CLOSE!!!!!!

2. Everyday cardigan (purple one) ? knit one more sleeve, need to all sewn together, needs button/neck band finishing and end weaving. (I left the pieces in my office as I was supposed to work on it during my lunch break)

3. Marnie cardigan ? I started the back piece two years ago and never gotten around to finish the rest of the pieces. I think I'm going to rip it off to make it longer. I just realized that the back piece is too short.

4. Artist?s vest for my DH? front is almost done. This one has to wait while I get the right yarn. (I finally called the owner at Green Mountain Spinnery this morning?he was so friendly and helpful. He suggested me to send him the sample one and he will make sure that I will get the right yarn.)

5. Two second sock syndrome that need to be done, must make myself work on the second.

Although, I know I'm supposed to go back and finish one of these unfinished projects but I'm soooo hooked with Kolvsa sweater that I'm obsessed knitting all morning.

*************
Sooooo, I'm in!!!!!

I have decided to join Stash 2007. Wendy and LB have come up with a fantastic idea, to knit from your stash in the coming year. This is exactly what I needed to keep me on track and use what I have before buying any more. THANK YOU GIRLS!!!!!! You are so brilliant!!!! Here are their rules, but Wendy has given us full reign to design them to suit our needs:

Knit From Your Stash 2007: Guidelines for L-B and Wendy

1. The Knit-From-Your-Stash-a-Thon will start January 1, 2007 and run through September 30, 2007 -- a period of nine months.

2. We will not buy any yarn during that period, with the following exceptions:

2.a. Sock yarn does not count. What? You think we are made of stone?
(I'm going to stick with "DO NOT BUY sock yarn" because I have tooooooo many sock yarn!!!)

2.b. If someone asks for a specific knitted gift that we really and truly do not have the yarn for, we may buy yarn to knit that gift.

2.c. If we are knitting something and run out of yarn, we may purchase enough to complete the project. (fair enough!)

2.d. We each get one "Get Out of Jail Free" card -- we are each allowed to fall off the wagon one time. (Definitely will go Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival and buy more yarn.)

3. We are allowed to receive gifts of yarn. (DH, Mom and Kimbo...Hint..hint..hint!!!)

4. Spinning fiber of any sort is exempt. (do not apply to me)

I will be back to discuss my reflections of 2006 and Knitting Resolution soon.

Happy Knitting!!!

Curly Sue is here!!!

2006-12-28T22:46:00.000-05:00

From straight hair .....

to Curly Sue!

Yup...I finally got my hair perm today after waiting two long years!!! I like my hair curly more than straight hair. I can control my curly hair than straight hair!! My hair is real stink right now from the "chemical" shampoo. It will take a few days to get the "smelly" out. I'm happy cuz nooooo more straight oily uncontrollable hair!!

Oh oh oh...how can I forget this.... My mom asked me if I ever finished the vest for my DH. I realized that I have not shared this with you. Remember I mentioned that I was out of the yarn and ordered it more through online. I waited for a week to get the yarn. I didn't pay attention the yarn. I started knitting few rows and realized that something is really wrong here.!!!

Sorry, it's blurry but you could see the top row are very thin than last part of the row. I looked at the yarn and compared it with the other yarn.

Geez....the new yarn has more twist than other. Grrrr!!! I knitted few more rows to see if it can be overlooked but I realized it looks so different. I asked my friend, Jerri Lyn to see if she notices anything. She immediately noticed it and said it is wrong yarn....slight different color. Grrrr...again!!! Sadly, the vest is not ready for my DH to wear it! I have to call the owner to see if the yarn can be exchanged to right one. I promise I will finish it (*somehow*).

I'm soooo lazy today and didn't do much around the house I should but knitting all afternoon. I'm working on Kolsva Cowl sweater. I brought the Kocharon yarns last year and have not decided what to make till I saw Lolly's sweater. Exactly same color I have in the stash. I really like the design so much. I don't know if it would look good on me. If not, I have someone in my mind who may like it. I finished the back piece and am working on front piece.

Tomorrow, I will talk more about my "Knitting List of Shame" and knitting resolution.

Happy Knitting!!!

Green and Warm Christmas

2006-12-26T21:45:00.000-05:00

No Snow!!! Wish we had a White Christmas!!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful, peaceful holiday. :) Ours was very low key, but we wish we could be with our families for the holiday. We had a nice ham dinner and opened our gifts on Christmas Eve. My DH is so thrilled that he received few Harley Davidson gift certificates and was so surprised that he got a Harley lamp from my dad. Isn?t he spoiler?? He wants to convert his office into Harley Davidson theme. Scary, isn't it?

I got a real cool needle from my sister, Kimbo!

It's Knit Lite. I can knit anywhere ...even in the dark!!!

What we did last week that keep us real busy.... My DH decided to do the major yard renovation by our house. Also, he built a new mini-garage under the deck where he wants to put his new trailer under there. (it's still not finished!)Cold and rainy weather slow him down for a week. I spent hours helping him digging, carrying bags of stones, wrapping gifts, cleaning rooms, doing laundry, and knitting.

FOUR FOs to show you!!! I lovelovelove them so much!!!

I finished Twisty Turns Wrap last month. I forgot to take the picture of it. I will ask my DH to take a pix of me wearing it this week.

Corazon mittens - for my third . I finished them last Saturday.

I used Debbie Bliss Merino dark yarns.

Last night, I decided to knit Garterlac Dishcloth. It was very fast project. It took me few hours to finish it.

This evening before dinner, I knitted another dishcloth. Sure, Angel of Welcome was a very quick project.

On the Needles.......

Eunny desgined Anemoi mittens that I really love. Really challenge project cuz I used size 0 needles for the cuff. Now I'm using 12" circular needle - size 2. Ouch, my right hand is real sore!!! I use Heilo yarns for the mittens.

I'm so glad that I don't have to go to work this week because school is closed for the winter break. I plan to reorganize my craft room - clean up the mess, sort some stuff out to sell through ebay, and organize craft related in right place.

Tomorrow I will get my hair perm!!! I gave up as I'm so tired of fixing my hair up for last two years. My hair is real thin, STRAIGHT and very OILY!!! So frustrating!!! I want to have my hair natural curl like my sister, Kimbo!!! I hope my hair will look more natural and soft curls. Geez...now I'm nervous!!! Wish me good luck!!

Better go and finish the mitten. Happy Knitting!!!!

Will Santa Come?

2006-12-24T12:16:00.000-05:00

Nah..nah.... I'm sooooooo GOOD girl! (I think!!) I want to assist Santa tonight so my name is.....

Your Elf Name Is...

Sassy Helper

What's" Your Elf Name?

Whaaaat???? Me Sassy? No Waaaaay!!!!

We wish you a very happy holidays!! Enjoy your time with your family and friends!!!

Will be back soon with some evidences why I'm so BUSY at home lately.

Happy Birthday to....

2006-12-16T01:07:00.000-05:00

my DH, CRAIG!!! The one I truly love...my husband, my best friend, my companion, and my true lover in the world!

Today is his birthday!! He turns 43 years old and looks so FABULOUS!!!!!

We are going up to PA. for the weekend for his birthday. Be back tomorrow night.

I'm working on Corazon. Will post it when I get back! Knitting fair isle is really addicted!!

Hiya!!!!

2006-12-07T21:15:00.000-05:00

What a (almost) week for me! I got back to work after two and half weeks off last Monday. My schedule were booked with meetings, meetings and meetings that I didn't have time to finish all the emails. 1,118 emails!!! I wish I'm kidding but am still trying to finish them up by tomorrow afternoon.

Last Sunday was a real productive day for me! I put the tree up and decorated Xmas stuff around the house. Now, I feel soooooooooo CHRISTMAS-Y!!!!!

I'm true loyal Santa Collector!

Looooook!!!!!! All Santa oranments around the tree along with Santa dolls on the table and floor!

Every year I asked my DH to pick one of his favorite ornament. For last three years, he picked Naked Santa.

Now, he is really obsessed with his new toy since July. He picked two "winner" ornaments this year!!!

Of course, Harley SANTAS!!!!!

The skeins arrived in the mail yesterday!! I'm hoping to finish the vest for my DH this weekend.

Happy Birthday to my dear *knitting* BEST friend, Jerri Lyn!!!!

TGIF for tomorrow!!!!

Happy Knitting!!!

Almost FO!

2006-12-03T11:10:00.000-05:00

Here it is..... Fair Isle Traditional Hat!!!

I spent all day on Friday knitting it. The chart is much easier to read than the headband's chart.

Last night after Xmas shopping, I finally finished the hat. All pinned up for now. This needs to be blocked today. I will hem it up and put the tassel on it. I'm not really "hat" person but this one that I would like to wear.

Close-up of Upside Down Hat - real neat!!

I'm so proud that I finished it. I had a dream this morning that I'm knitting fair isle sweater! Oh boy, that's really wishful thought!! I promise*promise*promise myself to finish few unfinished projects!!! Twisty-Turn Wrap (need to seam them together), Everyday Cardigan (need to seam the pieces together and then add buttonband) and vest for my DH (am waiting for skeins to arrive).

I will definitely make another one and plan to knit the fair isle mittens....maybe Fair Isle sweater in 2007!!!

Hope your weekend is good as mine. I'm not really looking forward to go back to work tomorrow. I feel much better and more energy than last week after battling with colds and coughs.

I'm better go and get all Xmas decorations/tree out and decorate them today.

Have a GREAT day and Happy Knitting!!!

I'm a Proud Joiner

2006-12-01T10:07:00.000-05:00

....in a perfect KAL for this month. I'm soooo "fair isle" mood this week.

What are your projects for this knitalong?

I have decided that I'm going to knit a traditional hat from Bea Ellis Knitwear today.

For next project, I promise to finish the vest I'm waiting for more skeins that I ordered last week for my DH's birthday. I would go to next project - Fair Isle mittens after finishing the vest.

Is this your first colorwork project? If it isn't, what was your first, and has it survived the test of time?

No, I knitted the headband last Tuesday. I felt it was my best accomplishment of my work. It was challenge working with two yarns but it was so much fun to work with. It required me a lot of patience to throw and pick the yarns.

I'm still out sick all week. I was supposed to go back to work last Wednesday but the cough was soooo bad that I could not sleep and ended up seeing the doctor. It's confirmed that I have severe upper respirary infections and am treated the wonderful medicines that help me to breath and less cough.

I'm so ready to knit the hat!! Stay warm especially the midwest people. My parents are stuck in the house watching the blizzard storm today. It's unbelievable warm but raining here.

Happy December and Happy Knitting!!! 24 more days till Xmas!!!