merry christmas

We had a great christmas! Lots of fun was had by all. My favorite gift was my son, who had his first christmas. He was happy, well behaved, and healthy, which was all I asked for! Of course until we got to my friend's house for dinner. He puked all over himself, and me. Not pleasant, but worth every second that I smelled of puke. Because he was here. All the pain and grief from the years before his birth subsided, and I enjoyed every second with him. I have my 2 kids, and I couldn't be happier.

Here's a low-down of the fun gifts I got:
1. Jordana Paige bag in purple
2. box to keep tea in
3. Jewelry box
4. kitchen utensils
5. tea
6. hot cocao
7. Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics
8. organizer for the back of my car
9. Mason Dixon's new book
10. kids knits book

december?

Wow, how did it become December already?! It feels like it was just summer yesterday. Time has gone by SO fast!! A lot has been going on over here. Thankfully, Seth and Celia have both been healthy! It's a miracle! I managed to get a bacterial infection, which was of course on a weekend. Then I ended up with a stomach bug. And now I have a cold. Just can't win! But at least the kids are healthy!! Or at least were- Seth had a bit of a temp tonight when I put him down. Here's to hoping it was just teething and it's gone in the morning.

Getting ready for the holidays has been crazy. I'm partially done shopping, but still have some more to do. Maybe after work one of these days. And we'll do the "Santa" shopping one afternoon over lunch. I'm looking forward to having some down time over the holidays. We are not going anywhere! Which is good, because I'm SO tired!

I've been shopping a bit lately. I've started working on my fabric stash, so I can get back into quilting and try sewing. I got a new cell phone, since my old one crapped out on me. I ended up getting it at Costco, and saving some cash. The first phone I tried was the Samsung Glyde, which I absolutely hated. It was nice having a touch screen, but overall the execution just sucked. So I took it in and got a Blackberry Curve, which I absolutely love!! I'm debating on whether I want to turn it in and get a Storm, but they didn't have them in stock, so I didn't bother at the time. And think I'll just stick with what I have. I really like the feel of the Curve.

Been actually getting a lot of knitting done too! I finished my scarf, a drop stitch scarf out of some handspun silk/merino. I absolutely love it, and will take some pics soon and upload them. It's absolutely beautiful though! And I finished a hat for Seth, a pair of socks for Seth, and am working on a hat for Celia. It's been nice actually finishing projects!

sale!

EtsyCREST is doing a huge promotion for Black Friday/Cyber Monday!! All of those participating have donated an item to a gift box, which will be raffled off to all who enter! Enter the drawing by commenting on the sale post over at the EtsyCREST blog!

As part of the sale, I'm offering a 10% discount on all of my yarn, plus free shipping if you put Ravelry in the comment section. Come to my shop!

shop update

I posted a bunch of holiday themed yarn in my etsy shop! It's the one thing I managed to do today that wasn't taking care of Seth or trying to squeeze in some work during his nap times. My friend BellaRose stopped by for a pot of tea, and a bit of chatting, while Seth ate his lunch. It was nice to not be alone for a bit. I had enough of that this past weekend in the hospital.

And, as my luck would have it, I have a head ache, sore throat, and a temperature. Here's to hoping it's GONE in the morning!

HSKS6 package!!

I got the most amazing package from my HSKS6 pal Lucy! This thank you post is WAY late, and I am SO sorry for the delay!! But, here are the fabulous pics!

Here is a shot of everything- look at all the goodies!! You can see a Hermione Granger themed package, which includes a canvas red bag with my initials, a great binder with patterns in it, a notebook for me to write in, and pens. Stitch markers, which are so cute!! An amazing hat, which is just beautiful, and the mitten pattern to go with it, with the yarn. Plus an amazing sock pattern, for Gryffindor pride socks, and the yarn to make it. And some yummy chocolates and jelly beans!! You rock Lucy! It helped make my last few weeks much better.

hospital

Well, the last few days have not been fun. Friday we took Seth back to the pediatrician, who promptly sent us back to the hospital. It had been over a week and he didn't sound any better. The tests came back positive for RSV, so we were admitted and spent the last few days there. I'm a bit behind on a few things, like posting pics of my fab. package from my HSKS pal, and getting a few packages in the mail. I'm working on it all, and will do as much as I can tonight. Sorry for the delay.

Quidditch round 3!

1. Who was Tom Riddle Sr.'s girlfriend before Merope gave him the love
potion?
a. Eleanor
b. Cecilia
c. Sally
d. Mandy

2. What does Luna say floated into Harry's ear when he was in the train car
that supposedly caused him to lose focus?
a. Demiguise
b. Jobberknoll
c. Wrackspurt
d. Runespoor

3. How much do the primary Apparition lessons cost?
a. 10 galleons
b. 8 galleons
c. 15 galleons
d. 12 galleons

4. What is Professor Merrythought's first name?
a. Eileen
b. Galatea
c. Carol
d. Jocelyn

5. What Hogwarts club was Eileen Prince captain of?
a. Charms Club
b. Gobstones Club
c. The Slug Club
d. Occlumency Club

6. Who is head of the Goblin Liaison office?
a. Ambrosius Flume
b. Dirk Cresswell
c. Ciceron Harkiss
d. Barnabas Cuffe

7. Mrs. Weasley offers Fleur a goblin-made tiara for the wedding with Bill.
What family member is currently in possession of the tiara?
a. Aunt Muriel
b. Aunt Ethel
c. Aunt Edna
d. Aunt Thelma

8. How many points does Snape take from Gryffindor for Harry's late arrival
and muggle attire?
a. 30
b. 70
c. 50
d. 90

9. When Profressory Slughorn first meets Hermione, he asks her whether she
is related to Hector Dagworth-Granger. What society did Dgworth-Granger
found?
a. The Most Extraordinary Society of Charms
d. The Most Extraordinary Society of Herbology
c. The Most Extraordinary Society of the Defense Against the Dark Arts
d. The Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers

10. Which of these describes Golpalott's Third Law?
a. The antidote for blended poison will be equal to less than the sum of the
antidotes for each of the separate components
b. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to less than the product
of the antidotes for each of the separate compenents
c. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to more than the product
of the antidotes for each of the separate compenents
d. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to more than the sum of
the antidotes for each of the separtea components

ER

Crossposted at my other blog
We had an eventful day. Seth has had a cold since last weekend, and I was a bit concerned about it. It wasn't getting any better at all, so I took him in today to see what the Doc thought. We got to see Dr D, and within 5 minutes, he was getting an albut.erol treatment. Seth was really wheezing a lot, to the point where his face had a little blue tint to it. NOT a good thing. So after that, and re-checking his pulse-ox, which was still under 80, Dr D sent us to the hospital. By ambulance. I was totally freaked, but he and the nurse did a great job at calming me down and reassuring me. I called Nathan to meet me at the hospital, because I knew I couldn't manage it myself without completely freaking. Thankfully we got there just after he did, so it worked out. After about 4 hours, another neb treatment (plus the one in the ambulance on the way), some oxygen, a chest Xray and some tests on nasal secretions (for rsv and flu virus) we were cleared to go home. His breathing is still not great, but at least his pulse ox was regularly over 90, and the blue was gone. Now we're on predni.solone again, and albut.erol every 4 hours. We get to go back and see Dr D again tomorrow. Talk about a stressful day!! I would have a glass of wine or something, but if he gets bad again, I have to drive to the hospital. Again. I'm hoping he's ok for the night. This whole infant asthma thing seriously sucks. And it's stressful. Seeing my precious sweet boy sitting on a gurney in an ambulance is an image I'll have with me for a long time. It's moments like that that I'm so grateful that my inlaws took the cat, and that we're doing all we can to help him breathe easier.

24 questions- SP13 questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love anything really soft. Especially blends with silk, bamboo, etc. The softer, the better!! I really don't care for acrylic yarn.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have a needle roll that my SP gave me years back, which I love!! Then there is the KnitPicks Options binder which I use for my interchangables. And a zipper pouch for my DPNs. But I could always use more storage, especially something for my DPNs.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I've been knitting for approx. 27 years. I learned when I was about 5, and would pick up needles on and off for years. I really started knitting non-stop about 4 years ago.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Yes, I do, but it's out of date. I'm working on it though and will post the link asap.

5. What's your favorite scent? Lavendar, vanilla, or citrus. Lush is one of my favorite places to get this stuff, but I'm always on the look out for new sources!

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? I love twizzlers, orange chocolate, and Reeses stuff.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I spin, dye, scrapbook, sew, quilt, rubber stamp cards, dabble in jewelry making, love to cook, photography, gardening and baking. I'm pretty well-rounded when it comes to crafts. :)

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I love pop/rock. My favorite bands are Barenaked Ladies, Guster, They Might Be Giants, Great Big Sea, Moxy Fruvous and Cake.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Blue, purple and green are my favorite colors. Not a fan of yellow and oragne, but if you ask me, all colors have their place.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am happily married (for 6+ years) and have 2 kids, a 4 year old daughter and 8 month old son. I used to have 2 cats, but due to my son's asthma, we got rid of one, and the other had to be put down because of chronic renal failure. Now we have no pets (unless you count one fish).

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes to all, but ponchos.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I love to knit socks, sweaters, baby clothes, scarves, and hats. And mittens.

13. What are you knitting right now?
I will go with what I'm "actively" knitting now. One sweater for my daughter, a hat for the baby, legwarmers for my daughter, a pair of socks for myself. I'm pretending the other 20+ projects on the needles don't count, since they're hibernating.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Absolutely!!!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like straight and circs, babmoo or wood are my favorite materials.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I own both! Plus an electric skeinwinder for my dyeing business.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
3 years or so?

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
I love Thanksgiving. I celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas (my father is Jewish, mom and hubby's families are catholic/christian).

19. Is there anything that you collect?
Lots of things!! Yarn, of course. Then there is always cook books, wine, fabric, and poodles (I had 2 standard poodles growing up and love poodles!!)

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I have a subscription to IK, but that's it. I'm looking for some fun vest patterns, some challenging sock patterns, and fun kids patterns for either boys or girls.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'm trying Lace out, and love it. I'd like to learn to do colorwork, but I'm still terrified by the idea.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I am. My foot is big- size 10 wide. I'll write the measurements later...

23. When is your birthday?
June 25th.

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
I am, my ID is shelbyknits

FO: Central Park Un-Hoodie

Here it is!! My CPH, which I love way more than I ever thought possible. I wore it yesterday and it was so incredibly warm. So incredibly soft, and just absolutely beautiful.
ETA: The yarn I used for this is Brooks Farm Solana, and is just amazing. I have nearly 3 full skeins left, and plan to make a matching one for my daughter.





I did omit the hoodie- partially because I don't like the bulk and partially because I'll never use it. Instead, I've added a 2x2 rib collar, which is about 4 inches long. I've also made the button band go up onto this ribbing, to make it look more finished, and I absolutley LOVE how it turned out. This is the first real project that I've finished for myself (other than socks, mittens or scarves). I am so amazed that I actually finished it in exactly 6 months (thanks Ravelry for keeping track of that for me!).

And coming tomorrow- Stitches East!! This is the last time it will be in Baltimore, so I so thrilled to be going! And even better- my mom arrives tonight so we can go together! And we're even taking a class together too. I'm so over the moon with excitement!

A night to remember

Not only am I overly thrilled that our country has elected Obama to be the next president, I am filled with hope, and excitement to see what the future brings. Bring on the change!!

AND...While I waited up to watch the results, I was working on seaming up my CPH. Seaming up, and weaving in ends. LOTS of ends. And within 10 minutes of finding out that Obama won the election, I FINISHED MY CENTRAL PARK UN-HOODIE!!!

Needless to say, I"m wearing it today, and am nice and toasty warm.

One word describes me today- happy!

UnUsual Suspects

This weekend is the first big craft show of the year for me! I had to apply, and get accepted, which makes me even happier and excited that I was chosen! If you're in the DC area, and are interested in checking out a wicked craft show, come by! Here's the info:

SP13

Today is the last day to sign up for SP13!! Head over HERE if you want to read the rules and sign up! We have introduced a new group, for those who always go over budget! It's a $90 category, but the usual $60 and $30 categories are there as well!!

Starbucks and yarn swap

I participated in the Starbucks and Yarn swap again! And I was the first to receive my package!! It arrived last week (and I feel badly about not posting pics sooner, but things were crazy, I was sick, baby was sick, and camera wasn't charged), and I was thrilled with the contents!

Here is some scrumptious yarn in blues and purples, some super soft roving to spin up, a notebook some lotion, a Starbucks gift card, a cup cozy, some chocolates (yum!), and some stitch markers. I loved everything!! Thanks so much Linda!!

cph progress...

Well, here is my current progress shot for my CPH.



I've blocked it all out, and am ready to seam it. The problem here?? I can't seam very well. I tried seaming the shoulders last night, and it looks horrible. So I need to rip it out and start again. And...it's a bit longer than I intended it to be. I wanted it slightly longer than the pattern, but it's REALLY long. Not sure if it's too long or not- I guess that will be determined once it's actually all put together.

sickness again!

This has not been a fun week- again! My son is sick again. Last friday, he started with a fever of 103.3, and it was gone by Saturday. But Sunday, he started getting really cranky and feverish again. And his eyes were pussy. So he ends up having a double ear infection and conjunctivitis in both eyes- not fun at all. So he's been home. When he saw the Dr monday, he was breathing well. By Wed, it had deteriorated quite a bit and he was grunting/wheezing a LOT. So back to the Doc, and more meds later, we're still home but doing better. But of course, now I have a nasty sore throat (it's been there for weeks, but is now bad). Hmm...gotta love kids bringing germs home!

On a positive note, my CPH is coming along really well! I absolutely LOVE it. I can't wait to finish- and all I have left of pieces is 1 sleeve. This is the fastest I've ever worked on any project ever. Can you tell it's for me? :)

And...I got into a big craft show here! I've got a table at the DC Craft Mafia's The UnUsual Suspects show. I am sharing with another woman GetWiredDesigns. I can't wait! I'm dyeing away, and having a blast getting ready in my spare time.

Gryffindor quiz

What yarn shop did Henry Longstaff shop at for yarn?
Mrs. Macs
Who is the HSKS6 SPEW coordinator?
Cliodnia Acromantula
Which Gryff student just returned from London?
Lady Felula the Forgetful
Which Gryffindor has cats named after the muggle rock band, The Ramones?
Dagmara Grindelwald
What is your favorite childhood television program (Magic or Muggle)?
Who's The Boss, or Blossom, or Full House, or Alf
What is your favorite adult television program (Magic or Muggle)?
Grey's Anatomy, Brothers and Sisters, Desperate Housewives, Gilmore Girls or the OC depending on my mood.
Which travel destination did you last visit?
Hershey, Pennsylvania
What was your last finished object (FO)?
The cup cozy I made for my Starbucks and yarn swap pal.
How many project(s) planned for holiday gifts? How many do you expect to actually finish and give?
At least 2, one set of fingerless gloves, and scarf.
Who is the mother of Half Blood Prince?
Eileen Prince
Which Weasley became engaged in Book 6 (Half Blood Prince)?
Bill Weasley
What is the result of a Sectumsempra curse?
slashing the skin
Who used a Bezoar to reverse poisoning?
Harry

CPH, sewing, and other goodies

I've been knitting away on my CPH! For once, I've been completely faithful to one and only project. Usually I'm switching between, but not this time. Nope. I've gotten the back, the left front and 1/4 of the right front done. I'm in awe at how fast I'm going on it. My mom gave me 3 years to complete this sweater when I bought the yarn at MSW this year. I think I'll beat that goal...and I'm hoping it smash it by less than 1 year. But we'll see, since the holidays are coming up.

I've also been adding to my fabric stash. I've decided to really start sewing again. I've been wanting to make some purses/bags for myself, and dresses/tops for Celia, so I found a coop-group and have loaded my order with several dozen yards of amazing designer fabric, and loads of patterns, at rock bottom prices, and I can't wait to get started!! I'm really looking forward to pulling out my sewing machine again. I heart coops!!

The sign-ups for my Harry Potter Yarn Club have closed, and I have 6 participants. I am so excited to get started on dyeing for the first shipment! The theme will be from the first book, and I've already got it planned out. Now I just have to get some time in the dye room!

Kids have been good, both were sick about 2 weeks ago. Seth started three sundays ago with a fever, which kindly lasted for 2 full weeks. They think it was back-to-back viruses and possibly a bacterial infection thrown in. Thankfully he's better now, which is good since last week he really scared me with his asthma. We even went back to the pediatric pulmonologist to have him checked again. Needless to say, he thinks we'll be "frequent flyers" with his office. Not great news, but at least we're on top of it. The down side tot he asthma, is that we're going to get rid of our last cat. We put Zoey down a month ago after she was diagnosed with kidney failure, and she wasn't really responding to treatment well. So we're down to one cat. And regardless of what anyone says, I can't shake the feeling that having a cat isn't going to help his asthma any, so she's probably going to go live with my in-laws. We are also tearing out the carpet in our family room downstairs, and putting in a beautiful Bamboo floor. DH is currently scraping up the old laminate tile floor off of the concrete slab, which has been a nightmare, but is finally coming up after 2 days of renting a machine to help. Next weekend, the inlaws come in to help us do the floor, which will be awesome. I can't wait to see how it looks!! And getting rid of the animal dander-filled (and animal waste filled, eeww!) carpet, hopefully his breathing will be better. I think we'll also be getting an air purifier at some point too. Gotta keep the allergens away from my little guy!

Not much else going on. Spending LOTS of time dyeing, spinning, knitting, and enjoying some time to myself.

HSKS6- Quidditch Round One!

Quidditch ~ Round One

1. At the beginning of the book, Cornelius Fudge is talking to the Muggle Prime Minister. Which member of the Order of the Phoenix has recently been found dead?
c. Emmeline Vance


2. What animal does Bellatrix Lestrange kill when she and her sister, Narcissa, are going to see Professor Snape?
b. Fox


3. What time does Professor Dumbledore collect Harry from Privet Drive?
b. 11 p.m.


4. What did Professor Slughorn transform into when he was trying to hide from Harry and Professor Dumbledore?
a. An armchair

5. What grade did Harry get for Herbology?
a. E – Exceeds Expectation

6. Herbert Chorley, the Prime Minister’s Junior Minster, has been entertaining the public by impersonating which animal?
b. A duck

7. What is Professor Sprout’s first name?
d. Pomona

8. What is Dumbledore’s idea of ‘a few words’?
d. nitwit, oddment, blubber and tweak

9. Who is Marcus Belby’s famous uncle?
b. Damocles

10. What is Snape’s mother’s name?
b. Eileen Prince


Pictures
Post pictures to your blogs or link to the pictures from your blog post.

Narcissa

Snape

Bellatrix

Professor Sprout

Professor Dumbledore

picture day!

For HSKS6, today is picture day! So, here is a somewhat recent pic of me and my daughter at a recent trip to Hershey Park. As part of our day, we stopped at Chocolate World, did the tour, and bought TONS of chocolate. Yummy!!

HSKS 6 questionnaire

Potter Name: Emma Scamander

Rav ID: shelbyknits

I am allergic to: smoke

Pets that I have: 1 cat

My favorite yarn: Hmm... Probably socks that rock or Fleece Artist

If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors? N/A

My favorite flavor: chocolate

My favorite holiday: Halloween

I would like to receive a: (Sock kit, scarf kit or yarn dyeing kit)
Sock kit, but any of the above would be great!

List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length:
Crystal palace or Knit picks Harmony DPN, size 2US, 6 or 8 inches are great

Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: anything! I love trying new things

I've participated in HSKS: 0 times, this is my first!!

Do you have a birthday during this swap? Nope!

Shop update

I'm finally back in the swing of things and have made an update to my shop! I have about 10 new colorways, and more coming in the next few days, including some favorites (Fawkes, Lord Voldemort, Night Bus). I'm also getting excited about my new sock club! I've only got 6 5 spots left!!

Here are some pics to show you what I"ve been up to:

Good bye Zoey

She's gone. Over the weekend, she threw up all over the house...which was a sign we were supposed to look for. This morning, I took her to the vet with the intention of having her put down. I had her checked out, the vomiting was either a sign of her advanced kidney disease, or of her being scared that we were gone for a few days (our neighbor came to feed/medicate her while were away playing). No way of knowing which. They offered to try a few things to see if they helped, and I asked about having her put down. They can't really push you in either direction, but they talked me through it, and said that if it was what I wanted than they'd support it. If I didn't have kids to worry about, I would have done whatever possible to keep her around. But with a 4 and a half year old who remembers everything, it made sense to let her go before she got really sick. I want Celia to have fond memories of Zoey. Not sad ones. And I didn't want to get to the point where Zoey was suffering.

I held pet her and kissed her head as they injected her. I watched her fall asleep for the last time. And then I spent about 10 minutes with her to say goodbye and be with her. And I cried the whole time. I cried the whole way home. And the whole way in the house to get to my other cat, Trinity. Who hissed at me. Typical Trin. At least she let me pet her a little while I cried some more. Now I feel like I'm all cried out, but I know that when I tell Celia that zoey is gone, that I'll be in tears again.

Talk about a shitty couple of weeks. Enough death, thank you very much.

Zoey Bidwell, March 20, 2002-August 25, 2008
We will miss you.

Harry potter yarn club

Well, I'm getting really excited about something I've been thinking about for a while. I'm going to be running a Harry Potter inspired Yarn club! It's going to have 7 shipments, one inspired by each of the 7 books (an event or character or place that is key to the plot). I've opened up 10 spots, and if there's more interest I can open up a few more. This is going to be so much fun!!

Here's the details:
7 shipments, every other month starting in October 08 and going through October 09.
Each shipment will include a skein of yarn, hand dyed by me, in a variety of bases (TBD).
Each shipment will also include a special extra, TBD.

The cost:
If you pay up front, in full, the total cost is $175 ($170 plus $5 in shipping).
If you want to pay in installments, you will be invoiced each month prior to shipment for a total of $27 ($22 plus $5 shipping)

How do you sign up?? I have 10 7 spots up in my shop. I have both "pay-in-full" and "installment" listings up. Come join in on the fun!!

Starbucks and yarn swap

I returned from my trip to Buffalo to find a package waiting for me! I tore it open to find my Starbucks and yarn swap package!! Inside was an amazing bag, a gift card to Starbucks, some chocolates from Starbucks, a book and book mark, and a beautiful skein of Malabrigo!! I absolutely love it!! Thanks so much Molly! I will post pics later, when I'm on my home computer. And then I'll edit the contents too because I'm pretty sure I'm leaving something out.

Ravelry Scarf Swap

Today was a rough day. After taking Celia to the dentist, I came home to a great surprise. My Ravelry Scarf Swap package!! Here is what was inside:

The most amazing scarf ever!! It's SO soft, and the loveliest light blue color. It's got beaded/lace edging, and it's so warm and big! I can't wait to wear it. I put it around my shoulders, and instantly felt a huge hug. I really needed that today, thanks!

Then there was one of the books I've been wanting to read (Things I learned from knitting whether I wanted to or not), a chocolate covered rice krispie treat, some cup cozies, really fun felted stitch markers, and another pretty front/back row marker, as well as a pad of paper and a pen, some fun soap, lotions, and a lovely lavendar sachet. I was SO spoiled, thank you SO much Erin!! You had perfect timing, and I absolutely LOVE everything!!

sad.

Death SUCKS. My aunt Debbie, who has been battling cancer for over 11 years, passed away last night. She's in a much better place, with no more pain and suffering. I'm really going to miss her. I love you Aunt Debbie.

long week

Well, one of my cats is sick. Zoey (who is my favorite kitty in the whole world), went to the vet on Monday and we found out that she has renal failure. She's been on IV fluids for a day and a half, and her values haven't really dropped (some have, but the important one went up). So we're waiting to see how she does for another day. Hopefully she can come home tomorrow. I miss my Zoey!

On another front, I've been busy cleaning. When I get worried about something, I tend to clean. So I've torn apart the office and am working on getting it back together.

I also spent a few hours dyeing over the weekend!! I'm hoping to do a shop update soon. Though I am getting ready for a few local craft shows, so I'll be busy dyeing up extras for those as well.

I also got a gift from my SP SP12 pal:

Lovely fleece artist sea wool. I can't wait to cast on some fabulous socks!! Thanks so much pal!!


I finished spinning for my HHHH pal, and will get her package out this week. I also finished knitting my pals scarf for the Ravelry scarf exchange. That package goes out this afternoon. Then I get to go to a meetup at a BN near me this evening!

I've also received a great package from my HHHH pal too. I absolutely love it!! It's amazing. Here are a few pics:

Included is a bottle of late harvest wine (which was absolutley amazing!!), beautiful handdyed roving in a "Starry Night" colorway, which I absolutely love, the handspun which I absolutely love and can't wait to use. Then there was some shoes for Seth, a purse with fun princess jewelry for Celia, some other accessories, and some fun wine charms. I was SO spoiled, and I can't wait to use everything. Thanks so much Daddysgirl.I was SO spoiled! You really rock.

SP questions

I'm a bit behind, with vacation and work, and everything else going on. So here are my last few "Questions of the week" answers!

Question #6
What is your favorite type of project to take along on holiday/vacation?
My favorite project to take is usually socks. They are small, simple, and pack well. And if I only have 10 minutes to work on them, it's enough time to do a few rounds (or needles if I have dpns) and put them down again. Nice and easy.

If you’d like to share a story…Tell us about a time that you packed too much knitting or were stranded without knitting.
I have a tendency to over-pack. I usually have at least 3 projects with me, and one or two that I can start. Or have a plan to visit a LYS and pick up an extra project. I remember when I went to Las Vegas last January. I knit some on the plane, but other than that, I did absolutely no knitting whatsoever. I had the idea that I'd go to bed early and get some knitting done...but then I was up until 2 or 3 most nights, and up at 6:30 and back out with my family. We sure know how to have fun!! And at least I did do some on the plane... But even on the way home, I was so exhausted from lack of sleep, that I rested the whole way, and didn't knit a single stitch.


Question #7
What is(are) your favorite place(s) to knit? and
I usually do my knitting on my sofa in front of the TV. I love my sofa. It's big, soft, cushy, and comfy.

What supplies (besides yarn & needles) make the setting perfect for knitting?
I have a cube with a lid that inverts to a tray as a coffee table, and I often have some water, wine, or a mojito as I'm knitting away. The TV is always on, either to something on the Food Network or HGTV. Can't think of anything else I usually have. I can't even say other notions, because I usually hunt for them as I need them. And can never find them.

Question #8
What is your favorite supper for a hot summer evening?
I love hamburgers and hot dogs. Such an american girl. Grilled is best, with ketchup on the hot dog (either Sahlen's or Zweigel's), and ketchup and mayo on a cheeseburger (seasoned with seasoned salt). Give me some macaroni salad with hard boiled eggs and miracle whip, and baked beans (only Grandma Brown's) with a little ketchup and brown sugar and bacon before baking. That, and diet pepsi, or a glass of red wine are all I need. Great, now I"m hungry!!

when it rains...

So we've had an interesting week and a half. The vacation was MUCH needed, and I'm so glad we took it when we did. Because we came back to a huge storm of activity at both my job and my husbands. I've had deadlines to work towards, which is keeping me very busy. And my husband has been dealing with the results of the new housing bill being signed (probably this week). Unfortunately, it's not good for his company- in fact, they will likely be shut down relatively quickly (in the next few months). For now it's a waiting game to see what happens, and how they react, and then he'll be looking for a new job. Most likely. Unless a miracle happens and they're able to continue in their business (which really isn't likely). So it will be an interesting few months coming up.

On the plus side, we had some testing this week on the baby, to see what else could be causing his asthma/breathing issues. And thankfully nothing big came up. He does reflux a little (which we knew), but it doesn't go into his airway. He does have some swallowing issues which causes some milk to go into his nasal passageway (again, no shock considering when he spits up, it usually comes out of his nose too). The doc has him continuing on his pul.micort once a day, and now we're thickening his feeds with 1 tsp of rice cereal per ounce of formula. Nice and thick. And it seems to be helping a little with the spitting up/refluxing, which is a good thing. However his breathing is still wheezy, but we do expect that since the ped. pulmonologist thinks that he really does just have infant asthma. I say "just", because at least there is nothing more wrong- no structural abnormalitles or anything. The asthma part does scare the hell out of me, but we'll learn to deal with it. And for now, at least he isn't too upset over the wheezing, in fact he doesn't even notice it.

I have had a very productive week as well! I finished spinning up my yarn for my HHHH swap pal. It's all spun and plied, and all I have left to do is wash it and let it dry. I'm right on track! And I finished my Ravelry scarf exchange pal's scarf as well. I love it, and wish I didn't have to give it up. I'll post pics of both of these once the packages have been received by their recipients. I can't wait to see what they think!! Now all I have to do is knit a cup cozy for my Starbucks and yarn swap pal, and I'm good! My SP12 will be getting her first package this week. Unfortunately between vacation and the baby's issues, I've gotten completely distracted and have forgotten to put her package together (even though I have the stuff for it!!). Tonight though...tonight for sure.

I hope to post some WIP pics soon. Or at the very least, some pics from our vacay. Or from our peach picking trip this weekend. I love living less than 15 minutes from 2 fabulous pick-your-own fruit farms. We now have a bushel and a half of peaches, and I can't wait to freeze a ton of them down this evening. Have to do that before they get too ripe. They are incredible though...nice and fresh, sweet and tart, and perfect.

vacay

I had the best vacation last week!! From Wednesday through Sunday we were at the beach in Ocean City, MD. We were there the same time that my inlaws were camping nearby, so we all got to spend lots of quality time together. It was a blast!! We relaxed, got loads of sun, and spent loads of time in the ocean. And even spent some time at the boardwalk.

We got back Sunday to a lovely package from my wonderful SP12!! Inside, was a beautiful skein of Fleece Artist Seawool in a lovely blue/purple colorway. I absolutely love it!! Pics are to come, but I didn't want to wait any longer to post a proper thank you! You rock!!

Infant asthma

For the last 3-4 weeks, baby Seth has been wheezing quite a bit. It varies, sometimes it's constant, others it comes and goes. So we've been in close contact with the pediatrician, Dr D, about this. He was the one who noticed it a few weeks ago when I took Seth in for a low fever. And ever since, we've been treating it with meds. And they haven't really been helping much. So yesterday, we saw a pediatric pulmonologist. After about 20-30 minutes of examining him and talking to me, he came to the conclusion that Seth likely has infant asthma. This is all new to me, and I'm trying not to freak out and worry. We have a game plan for the next few weeks (to get us through our little vacation and the pulmonologist's vacation), and then baby gets an upper GI done, and a follow-up appointment to see how he's doing. Poor kiddo, he has no clue what's going on. Thankfully it's not really upsetting him too much and he's been pretty content through it all. Hopefully the meds will start working fast.

Has anyone else dealt with infant asthma?? This is all new to me.

On the plus side- we leave for vacation to Ocean City, MD tomorrow!! Yeah!! I can't wait to get to the beach. And RELAX!!

Question 5!

1) Where is your favorite place to go for vacation/holiday?
This is a tough one! I have a few favorite places, and I can't pick, so I won't! First, is Niagara-on-the-lake. It's a little town just outside of Niagara Falls, Ontario. It's absolutely beautiful, quaint and just perfect, if you ask me. In the spring, there are tulips EVERYWHERE. In the winter, it's lit up like a winter wonderland. And in the area are at least a dozen amazing wineries. Most of which I have visited, and plan to visit many more times. Secondly, is St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. I went there on a cruise once (with 3 of my best girlfriends the year before I got married), and it was unbelievable. Truly amazing. I really want to go back at some point. Either for a week or just a stop over on a cruise. Then there's always the place that we actually GO to...Ocean City, MD. Or the beach within about 30 miles of there. I've camped at Assateague Island, MD twice, stayed in Rehoboth Beach, DE once, and this year we're going to Ocean City, MD (next week!). It's fun living so close to great beach get-aways. While I love just relaxing on the beach, I really enjoy walking up and down the boardwalk even more. And then there's always the yummy food! And last but not least, is Las Vegas. I absolutely loved Vegas when I went in January 07, and I can't wait to go back!! I especially would love for my husband to see it. If only I could live there...

2) Where is one place you’d like to go?
One place I'd love to go is definitely Napa Valley. My husband and I love wine, and even have a bit of a collection. I've always wanted to visit Napa, and hopefully will get to some day. Preferably before my kids are in college...hopefully within the next few years.

Question of the Week!!

Question #4-

I forgot to answer this last week, with the baby being sick (twice). So here goes!!

1) What yarn (that you don’t have/haven’t used) would make your stash “complete”?
This is a tough one!! I've been really wanting to try some different fibers that I haven't used before. Maybe a silk, or cashmere... I know Fleeceartist/Handmaiden have several blends (Swiss Mountain Cashmere & Silk) that look amazing. I have never knit with anything cashmere, and I don't have any, so I'll say that. I think I'll maybe pick up something cashmere at Stitches East, to make my stash fully complete. ;)

2) What yarn do you never want to be without?
Socks that Rock! I have a huge sock yarn stash, and I keep adding to it (though I've been so good lately!!). I LOVE sock yarn, and have tons of it! And, about 10 of the skeins are STR. I love it for the squooshiness and for the colorways. Just fabulous.

Wish list

My SP12 pal asked me for a wish list...so here goes!

Sorry I forgot to post about it before now! I have been working on it for about a week. More will be added, as time goes. ;)

Starbucks and yarn swap questionnaire!

Here is my questionnaire for my pal! Let me know if you have any questions!

1. Full name Shelby Bidwell
2. Ravelry ID shelbyknits
3. Email address shelby AT bidwellfamily DOT net
4. Blog address (if you have one) http://shelbyknits2.blogspot.com or http://sbifblog.blogspot.com
5. Handmade item you desire in the swap (bag, cup cozy, etc.) a bag or coaster
6. Starbucks item you desire (gift card, mug, beans, etc.) a mug or gift card
7. Favorite Starbucks beverage/bean Caramel Macchiato
8. Favorite snack food popcorn or twizzlers
9. Favorite color(s) blue and purple
10. Favorite fragrance lavendar or vanilla
11. What types of things do you like to knit? socks, sweaters, baby/toddler items
12. Do you spin? yes, I love spinning!
13. Do you dye your own yarn? Yes, I do.
14. Favorite yarns Fleece Artist, Handmaiden, Dream in Color, anything of natural fibers that is soft
15. Favorite needles bamboo or wood
16. Do you have any allergies? to smoke
17. Would you be willing to prepare an angel kit if necessary? Possibly
18. Do you have any special requests? Not that I can think of!
19. Do you have any pets? 2 cats
20. Is your home smoking or nonsmoking? non-smoking.

question of the Week!!

Question #3:
What would you consider the perfect amount of stash?

Now this is a hard one!! I think it would be important for the "perfect" stash to have a large enough amount of yarn, where if you wanted to start ANY project, you could go stash diving and have at least 2 or 3 options for whatever project you have in mind. Want to start a cabled sweater? No problem! There would be at least 3 colors of at least 2 different yarns. LOTS of options. I think that if I had a stash that large though, my husband would seriously have me committed. I do have a large stash, and it gets larger every month. BUT, I have to say, it's been ages since I've bought any sock yarn. I'm patting myself on the back for that.

HHHS questionnaire!

1. How long have you been spinning? What skill level do you consider yourself? I'd say I'm an intermediate beginner. I've been spinning for about 2 years, but don't do it nearly often enough!

2. What kinds of yarn do you create (singles/2-ply/3-ply/art yarn)?
I create mostly singles and 2 ply yarn.

3. What do you spin with (spindle/wheel/both)?
I have a spindle and a wheel (Ashford Kiwi), but I usually use my wheel.

4. What are your favorite fibers to spin with? Anything you don't like?
I love merino, merino blends (with tencel, for example)

5. Who are your favorite crack dealers fiber sources (etsy or otherwise)?
I love crown mountain farms. I usually buy fiber at festivals, so haven't really explored the etsy sellers much.

6. What kind of fiber do you want to try?
I'm up for just about anything! I just don't like things that are scratchy.

7. Is there any techniques you would like to learn?
I'd love to learn how to navajo ply.

8. Do you dye fiber? If not, would you like to learn?
Yes, yes, yes! I have sold several rovings that I've dyed at my shop, but I've mostly dyed yarn.

9. Do you have fiber prep tools (and like to use them) or would you prefer ready to spin fiber?
No. I don't have the tools, or the time to learn to prep fiber right now. New baby takes priority right now. Ready-to-spin fiber is a must.

10. What do you do with your handspun? What projects have you completed?
I haven't done anything with it yet. But I have plans for scarves and leg warmers.

11. Are you in need of any spinning gadgets (WPI Gauge, threading hook, etc)?
I don't have a WPI gauge, and the threading hook I have is the one that came with my wheel (just metal). So I'd love some fun gadgets!

12. What colors "fall into your shopping basket"? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love blues, purples, and greens. I'm not a fan of orange or yellow.

13. What is on your wheel/spindle right now?
My wheel has several different things going. Some CrownMountain Farm superwash meriono, a blend that was gifted to me in a fiberswap, and some yummy alpaca that I bought at Maryland sheep and wool a few years back.

14. What other crafts/hobbies do you have?
I knit, dye, scrapbook, quilt, cook, photography

15. Other than crafts, what are you passionate about?
I love wine. My husband and I have a bit of a collection that we started about 6 years ago. I also love to cook. And my kids, are my number one priority. I work full time as a scientist, and need as many outlets as possible away from the computer.

16. Do you have an online wishlist?
I'm working on one right now...and will have it up within a few days.

17. Is there anything that you collect?
poodles (I had 2 growing up), wine, paper for scrapbooking, yarn, and cook books

18. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What magazine subscriptions do you have?
I only have one book on spinning that I got years ago, and it teaches you to spin on a spindle. I will make sure to put a few options on my wishlist. I do have an Interweave Knits subscription, and a Vogue Knitting subscription.

19. When is your birthday?
June 25th

20. What book or movie character do you most resemble in personality?
That's a hard one! I'm going to have to think about this...

21. What is the climate like where you live around this time (need to know for careful shipments of anything meltable)?
HOT. it's been in the mid to upper 80's the last few weeks, and it will only get warmer as the summer goes on.

22. Tell us one weird fact about yourself!
My husband and I met in college- I was his Resident Advisor in the dorms when we met, but we didn't start dating until the following year.

Favorites
favorite painting/picture(link):
Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh.

Candy:
Twizzlers or Starburst

Food:
french fries with cheddar cheese, thai food, or pepperoni pizza. Depends on my mood.

Drink:
Alcoholic, at the moment are mojitos. Non-alcoholic would have to be Diet Cherry Coke. Or, a good glass of red wine.

Movie(s):
Oceans 11, Pretty Woman and Star Wars, depends on my mood.

TV Show(s):
Grey's Anatomy, Brothers and Sisters, Desperate Housewives

Book(s):
I love Jennifer Weiner's books, but I've read them all.

Guilty Pleasure(s):
I love reality TV shows (the Bachelor, Bachelorette, the apprentice, American Idol, etc). And I love the Gilmore Girls. I watch reruns every night (thank you DVR). And my new favorite reality show is The Girls Next Door... Did I just admit that?

32

I can't believe it's been another year!! Today, is my 32nd birthday, and sometimes I still feel like I'm in my 20's. Then I remember how much I've learned since my mid-twenties, and I'm glad I'm in my thirties. I'm sure this will keep happening as I get older, too. For now, I'm just a little grumpy about getting some grey hair, but that I can cope with, with a trip to the hair salon. Pampering is a good thing. ;)

My gift from my husband was amazing. He got me a gift certificate to Toys R Us, which is for the new Guitar Hero- Aerosmith which comes out this weekend! It was cute too, he put "to our guitar hero, from your adoring fans, for one chance at fame" or something like that. He's too cute! I can't wait to go shopping Sunday and pick it up (hopefully it will be widely available).

I have made some progress on my shawl, which I'm pretty excited about! It's looking awesome, and I love it! I'll try to take some pics tonight and post them later. For now, I've got to finish up some work, go home and part-y!

Thank you!!

My SP12 sent me my first package, and it arrived yesterday! I was debating on whether to wait until my birthday to open it (tomorrow), or to open it right away. My daughter kind of took care of that decision for me by begging me to open it, and I was having a hard time resisting anyways, so it was easy to cave in. ;)

Inside, (pictures will follow when I have my camera) was copies of Back on Blossom Street and Susannah's Garden. Two books I've been wanting to read! I'm so excited! Usually I have such a hard finding authors that I like, and after reading the first 2 books in the Blossom Street series, I decided to branch out and try another of her books. She also sent me a brea.st self exam kit from Bath and body works. This is so fitting, because of the fact that my aunt has been in the hospital for a while, with breast cancer (that has spread), and she's likely losing her battle. I've been very good about doing my monthly self exams, I had my first mammogram last summer, and I'm doing everything I can to ensure that I am OK. Or that if I'm not, that I can at least catch it early. Thankfully, her form doesn't seem to be genetic, but there's so much that is unknown that I'm not taking any chances. Then was the oragami paper crane, which is stunning! And now hanging up in my cube so I can look at it whenever I need to see something pretty.

Thank you SO much pal!!! You really helped make my birthday special!

Lace? Me???

I have the shortest attention span sometimes. I've tried to do lace MANY times, and can not seem to get it down. I always screw up on every row, and I just can't focus. Last summer, during SP10, my pal Kerry sent me a lace stole pattern and some Schaefer Anne. I loved the pattern and yarn, but wasn't in the right place to start it. Especially once I was pregnant, the idea of keeping my attention on anything seemed to go right out the window! I was thinking the other day about this beautiful yarn and lace pattern. One of the women I spoiled a few years back, FGK does really amazing lacework, and she's been inspiring me ever since. So I finally took the plunge and cast-on for my stole. And...I'm actually 3 repeats in to the first part of the pattern! That's a whole 12 rows in, without any mistakes!! I'm absolutely loving how the pattern is turning out, and the yarn is SO soft! Here is my first pic...I took it last night before I did 4 more rows. I'm afraid I may become a bit obsessed with lace, if I can actually make it work, that is.

2nd question!

As a kid, what did you look forward to most about summer vacation/break/holiday?

I can't decide on one thing, so here are my 5 favorite things!

1- going to the playground! We had a playground in our neighborhood that had a summer program. Every day was a different field trip! Mondays was mini-golf, tues was the local "lake", Wed was the roller rink, thurs was the middle school pool, and fri was fun and games! There was always mon/wed afternoon arts and crafts, and games too. SO much fun!! We rode a school bus to the different places, and it was CHEAP. We did that every day, every summer for years!
2- hanging out at my pool- we hand an inground pool at my house, and it was the hang out.
3- Summer Theatre- our middle school had a summer theatre program where we'd put on a musical for different groups. We'd practice for weeks, and then perform everywhere! It was so much fun!
4- games with the neighborhood kids- Ghost in the Graveyard, kick the can, Superheros (like tag with fun transformations) and TV tag were a few of our faves.
5- walking to the local convenience store for Slush Puppies! YUMMY!!!
EDITED
6- watching Reading Rainbow!! I used to LOVE that show, and watched it every day during the summer!

SP12 first question!

What is my favorite summertime drink? I'll show you!!


These are the Mojitos that I made the other night! They were amazing, and I'm so glad that I have TONS of mint! I'll be able to have them daily if I want!

Here's my recipe:
12 mint leaves, torn up
2 teaspoons of sugar ("helps the medicine go down...")
juice form half of a lime (then cut it up in 4 pieces and put it in the shaker)
Then muddle the mint, sugar, and lime pieces with a spoon or pestle until all mint is bruised well
Add 1 1/2 ounces of Bacardi rum
add about a cup of ice
Shake up and down until cold
Put some fresh ice into a glass and pour the rum/lime juice mix into glass
Add about 3 to 5 ounces of Club soda (depending on how strong you want your drink)

Adding the club soda at the end makes all the difference! It keeps it nice and fizzy. I usually use about 3 ounces of club soda, because I love my liquor. ;-)

Actual knitting content?!!

Oh my goodness- I'm about to post some knitting content!! It feels like it's been FOREVER since I've posted anything knitting related! And this post shall have a few things!

I'm working away on my SP12 matches! I'm so excited to get that going, it's going to be a fun round! I can't wait to start spoiling my pal! It has been way too long since I've participated in a swap, and I feel all refreshed and ready to go!

I also signed up for another swap! It's the Hush Hush Handspun Hootenanny and it's going to be SO much fun!! If you are a spinner, head on over and join!

I've been knitting and spinning a bit over here too. Here are a few pics of what I've been working on!
Here we have some merino that I spun up last week. I bought 3 different colorways at MSW, and I let Celia pick out which one she liked best. She picked this one, and it's destined to be a new pair of legwarmers for her gymnastics class!


And here is some progress on my Central Park Hoodie! It's out of Brooks Farm Solana that I picked up at MSW. It's SO soft, and the color is just fantastic! I'm hoping to knit away on it all summer and fall, so I can wear it next winter. Though my mom was smart, and she told me I have 3 years to get it done...which is a much more realistic goal considering I can't seem to finish any of my projects...


And last, but certainly not least, here is a pic of my little guy. He's getting SO big so fast, and I can't believe how much he's grown! Notice the shirt- I got this from Mel's Cafepress store. My guy is a work of ART for sure...Assisted Reproductive Technology. I have gotten SO many compliments on it- great design Mel!

Sp12 questionnaire!!

Almost time for SP 12 to start up!! I am looking forward to another great round!

Here are my answers! Please feel free to ask if you need any clarification!

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love all kinds of yarn! Not a fan of acrylic, but most others are OK. Mohair does make me sneeze a little, but I still use it. I love anything really soft, in great colors.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have a needle roll for straight needles, and a zipper pouch for circs. I also have the KnitPicks options set and binder.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I've been knitting since I was 5, when an aunt taught me. But I've been "really" knitting for about 4 years. I'd say I'm intermediate, and not afraid to try much.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have an amazon one on the side bar, but it's not updated. I'll be sure to do that soon!

5. What's your favorite scent?
Lavendar, citrus, rose, vanilla...

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Yes! I love chocolate (especially milk chocolate, and orange chocolate). And I also love Twizzlers, starburst, and gummy bears.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I spin (have an Ashford Kiwi), dye (see my stuff here, scrapbook, quilt, make beaded jewelry and stitch markers, love photography, and cooking.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I love rock and pop music. Not much into rap or country, but like most other types of music as well.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Blue and purple are my faves, but I also like greens and browns. Not a fan of yellow or orange.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married with a 4 year old daughter, 3 month old son, and 2 cats.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I love scarves, hats and mittens. I don't have any ponchos, but am not opposed to them.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Love socks, sweaters, and baby items.

13. What are you knitting right now?
I have about 20 projects on the needles...but most are socks, I have two sweaters for myself, including the Central Park Hoodie which I just started, and a few sweaters for my daughter and son.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Yes, absolutely!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Circular for most things, and usually bamboo or wood.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I have both.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
3 years

18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween and Thanksgiving

19. Is there anything that you collect?
Poodles, yarn, and wine. Interesting combination! The wine is something my husband and I collect together. We have about 5 or 6 cases of wine at any given time.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I'd love to get my hands on some Wollmeise or vesper yarn, but I really do love most indie dyed yarns. I have Vogue Knitting and Interweave Knits.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I want to try lace knitting, but the few times I've tried, I have failed miserably. The only lace items I've completed are socks.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes!! I wear a 10 wide.

23. When is your birthday?
June 25th! I'll be 32.

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
Yes, my ID is shelbyknits.

bad blogger!

Wow, it's been ages since I've posted! My little guy has kept me quite busy! As has his big sister. Thankfully I've been able to find a little time to start knitting again! First time was when I was in Buffalo for a visit- both kids were in bed, so I got to work on a sock. AND then there was Maryland Sheep and Wool! I was very naughty. I only bought things on my list, which included some roving, and enough yarn for 1 sweater (the Central Park Hoodie). I ended up getting some Brooks Farm Solana in a brick red colorway for my sweater. It cost me most of my budget, but I know it's going to be SO worth it, since it's working up amazingly. Here is a pic of the yarn which is really much darker in person, and I'll take some pics of my CPH in progress, in a few days.


All else is going ok. I started back at work last tuesday, which was rough. I hate not getting to spend so much time with my kids. But I need to work, so there you have it. And of course, Seth got sick on Sunday/Monday this week. He had a fever, which of course is not a good thing in a 12 week old. So, we went to the doc, who did a urine collection by catheter, and sent us for a blood culture and urine culture, and bloodwork, because in infants that young, fever can be dangerous. Thankfully it looks like it was just a virus, but it was still pretty freaky. He screamed during the urine collection (duh- you should have seen how much tubing went up his pe.ni.s!). And at the lab, they tried to draw the blood out of both arms before they gave up and sent us to the hospital to have it done. After a whole morning of waiting in waiting rooms (at the Dr. office, lab, and then hospital), we both passed out. Thankfully by last night, his fever was gone, and he was more himself today.

On another note, Secret Pal 12 is starting soon! Sign ups opened last week, and are open for another week. Sign up fast if you're interested!! We've made a few changes, so we're really excited for this round!!

Still no knitting!

I can't believe I've made it 7 weeks without knitting a stitch. Just amazing. I really need to get back to knitting- I miss it terribly! Maybe tomorrow I'll have enough energy to do it.

My current "project" is our main bathroom. It's really the "kids" bathroom, but the only one with a tub, so I use it sometimes too. Plus it's the only one on the main level of our house. We're basically tearing it apart and redoing the whole thing. I've ordered the tile, the vanity, and am working on finding the perfect new tub! The handyman starts on it in 2 weeks, and I can't WAIT! Basically every second not spent with Seth and Celia is spent researching tubs, faucets, etc. And any extra time on weekends is spent working on scraping wallpaper and paint off the walls. Let's just say there's one layer of wallpaper that was painted over, and then covered with a second layer of wallpaper. Talk about a bitch to get off! It's taking FOREVER, and we're doing some major damage to the wall. Lots of spackle will be needed before we can paint in there.

2 and a half more weeks til we head up to Buffalo for a week, which I'm excited about! Then we come back right before Maryland Sheep and Wool! Then that week Seth starts day care, and the following Tues I'm back at work. I can't believe how fast my maternity leave is flying by! I'd do anything not to have to go back to work...this is really going to be hard this time.

MSW

http://www.cloverhillyarn.blogspot.com/
Check it out!! A blog to get ready for Maryland Sheep and wool! Yeah! Just a few weeks left!!

My life

The last few weeks have been exhausting! I've hardly slept, or slept in 2-3 hour spurts. I have changed hundreds of diapers, and pumped ounces and ounces of milk. No time for knitting, since I'm still so foggy. Thankfully I'm feeling really good other than the exhaustion. The recovery from the surgery has been so much easier this time around.

I thought I'd post newer pictures of Seth, who has been the main focus of my attention lately. Hopefully I'll be able to get some more energy soon and get back to knitting!

Getting excited!

In all of the excitement from last week, I forgot to mention something else great! I finished the order for Robyn's Nest March Sock club!! With the holiday on Monday, I was taking it to the post office Tuesday...but well, that never happened because Seth decided to make his appearence! So, my darling husband took the big box over to the Post Office first thing Wednesday morning, and it's on it's way to Robyn's Nest right now! Can you tell I'm excited about this too?

Home sweet home

Well, it's been quite the week!! I had a feeling that once I stopped taking the Pro.cardia that the contractions would start up again pretty quickly, but I had no idea just how quickly! When we went to the hospital last Tuesday, the nurse taking care of me in Triage made it seem like they'd try to prolong labor a bit longer, and send me home. Imagine my surprise, when my OB walked in around 1, asking if I was ready to do this. Um yeah!! This kid wants out, who am I to stand in his way?! So the surgery went well, it was pretty quick, considering they did 2 things while in there (let's just say that after a round of IVF, having gestational diabetes twice, and dealing with preterm labor this time, I'm DONE!).

We're all adjusting pretty well to having a new baby in the house. I'm still really sore, and exhausted. But it's getting better as time goes on. Celia is doing beautifully! She's so excited to have a baby brother, every time she sees anyone new, she tells them all about how she has a new baby brother. Here's a pic of her and Seth. She really loves that we let her hold him by herself.


My inlaws were here from Thursday until early this morning, which was a big help. It was nice not to worry about where dinner was coming from. And to have extra hands to help with Celia and Seth. I got to take naps daily, and really take care of myself, which I think has really helped with the recovery. I went off the Per.cocet yesterday, and am only taking extra strength motrin now! Of course, I did have to finish a hat that I had started for Seth while in the hospital. It's interesting to knit when you have an IV in your wrist, but I got it done!

Greetings! Shelby and I would like you to help us welcome Seth Nathan Bidwell into the world. He was born on Tuesday the 19th of Febuary at 5:30 PM, weighing 6 pounds. If you'd like to see some pictures, please feel free to visit http://bidwellfamily.net/images/v/SethBorn/. I expect that I'll be adding a couple more pictures there in the next couple of days as well.

Nathan posting for Shelby