Shelby Knits

January 2010

2010-01-30T10:51:00.004-05:00

I still can't believe that it is 2010! Just crazy how fast the last decade went. Last time I checked I was still in Buffalo, in grad school. Then I got married, moved to Maryland, had 2 kids, the eldest of which is in elementary school. When did that happen?

January has been a crazy month! We had to replace our heating system (the furnace was 32 years old, and the heat pump died, so we had to do the entire thing. I have also been busy organizing the science fair at our elementary school. It's been fun getting the kids motivated and helping them come up with projects. We have also been having lots of fun with girl scouts. It is cookie time, and we did our pre-sales, and now are waiting for them to come in. We had our first outing, and are planning more. Celia is really loving it too, which is just awesome to see.

Lots of fun things coming up! I will be participating in local Indie Artist Celebration up in Frederick, MD on Feb 20th. Here is the info:

Date: Saturday, February 20
Time: 12 - 5pm
Location: The Loft at Antique Imports, 125 N. East Street, Frederick, MD (directly across the street from Eleganza).

There will be about a dozen or so of us, and I can't wait!

I've also applied to be a part of the Homespun Yarn Party again. I had a blast with it last year, and I really hope i am accepted this year!

I will also have yarn at the Cloverhill Yarn Shop booth again at Maryland Sheep and Wool. I got great feedback from last year, so I'm looking forward to bringing out some of my favorite yarn, in old in new bases.

I have also gotten hooked on puzzles again. So far this year, I have completed 2. The first is one of my favorite Van Gogh paintings, The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum, Arles, at Night:

And the second is a fun crafty one:

Is this thing on?

2009-12-28T13:09:00.006-05:00

I really missed writing here. I don't know why I stopped. Things just got crazy busy, and I completely lost all track of time.

When did Thanksgiving get here? And Christmas? Seriously??

At least I can now work on getting things back to normal.

Some updates:

I got a layoff notice in October, and was to be laid off Dec 31. Thankfully I interviewed for another position within my institute, and was offered the spot, so I took it. Am no longer getting laid off, thank goodness!

I went to the UK for 2 weeks in late November/early December. 2 full weeks in Cambridge. I was there for work, so I had to leave the husband and kids home. It was nice, but really lonely.

I've finished a few items- a Swallowtail Shawl, a few hats, and have been working on a Central Park Un-hoodie for my son's day care teacher (she asked if she could pay me- I let her buy the yarn but am not letting her pay me for the work. She has spent a ton of time with me outside of day care hours working with me and my son to help him learn to speak.

I got some new ink!! Finally, went and got a knitting tattoo. Fitting, because I was in Asheville, NC for SAFF at the time. And, I was a vendor at SAFF and had a great time! Fabulous show, and I can't wait for next year.

My son (who is now 23 months) has been receiving speech therapy, due to speech delay. His pediatrician and ENT both suggested this due to the fact that he has had so many ear infections and sinus infections. I am also doing a class with the County, called the Hanen Program, It Takes Two to Talk. Between ITTTT and the speech therapy, my son is finally making some real strides towards communication. He still has few words, but he is definitely expressing himself much better than he was. And his level of frustration is so much less. I've always been all about Early Intervention, and my son is living proof of how much EI helps.

And here are some kid pics! Can't believe how big they are getting!!

HSKS 8 kit!

2009-09-09T09:42:00.003-04:00

Things have been a bit hectic over here for the last few months, and I"m finally now getting around to posting about the FABULOUS kit I received from my HSKS 8 summer camp pal, Honoria Beckett.

Included in my kit, is some yummy Palette yarn and some Esseential Sock from KnitPicks, a beautiful bag, which is in all of my favorite colors, stitch markers, a beading kit, and a pretty scarf pattern, for my herbology assignment, and some of my all time favorite candy- skittles and starburst! Talk about a rockin' package!! I am sooo spoiled! Thanks so much for everything Honoria!! I love it all! And I"m so sorry for the delay in getting my post up...

Kindergarten

2009-09-03T23:48:00.000-04:00

I still have many posts to catch up on, but the most important one is this. I now have an official Kindergartener. My little Celia started Kindergarten on Monday.

When did she get so big??

woops!

2009-08-21T15:27:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted in 20 days? Seriously?? Yikes!

Things have been a bit crazy on this end. After the vacation in the Finger Lakes, the kids and I headed to Buffalo for a week of family time. I managed to work while the kids played, and even had some fun myself! I was able to catch up with one of my best friends (who has a little girl who is 1), for lunch and then again the next day to hang out and again have lunch. It was so great to see her and the baby, who I hadn't seen since last august. Funny how some friends, you just fall back into the same time with, like no time at all has passed. It was awesome.

Then, there was the TKGA/CGOA Summer Knit and Crochet Show, which was fantastic! I had a ball, met a lot of great people, including a few people I know from Ravelry, and just had a yarny good time. I got a lot of great compliments on my yarn, and made a really good profit. I didn't make it to Sock Summit, but my yarn was there. Still waiting on hearing how it did, but I can't imagine how busy the shops are sorting out whose yarn sold, and packing it up. Craziness!

Seth is currently sick, with a double ear infection. And he has tubes in his ears, so they are just draining bloody goo all over the place. Pretty nasty, and he's been a bit cranky. Took him in to the doc yesterday, after the day care provider noticed the blood, and he's back on antibiotics. We're holding off on the Ora.pred for the moment (he's wheezing again too), but may need that in the next few days. Fun times. You know it's rough on a kid, when the doc is looking at the history of prescriptions, and he is impressed that Seth made it a month and a half since his last course. 6 weeks! It seems like he's always on antibiotics, the poor kid. Better get some stuff done while he sleeps... More later! Still need to post about the colonoscopy, more weeks from the CSA, and all of the goodies coming from our garden!

Vacay

2009-08-01T12:32:00.003-04:00

I love vacations! This week has been so much fun! We're in Canandaigua, at my uncle's place. Last time we were here, is when I took the HPT that came up positive after my IVF cycle. So it holds a lot of good memories for me.

We've done nearly everything I can think of. The beach, the New York Wine and Culinary Center, shopping, wine drinking, relaxing, reading, spent some time with my MIL/FIL, and my SIL, and spent some time just relaxing. I got to take a nap, which I really needed. And I got to spend Tuesday in a chair. Getting my newest tattoo!! Here it is:

The pink ribbon is for my Aunt Debbie, who passed away last year from a 12+ year battle with breast cancer. The cherry blossoms are there because they are one of my favorite flowers, and we have several cherry trees in my yard that bloom every year. Love living in DC for that. If we ever move back to Buffalo/Rochester, I'll have that to remind me of our time in DC. And if we're in DC forever, I can see them year round. I got this done at Lady Luck Tattoo in Canandaigua, NY. Tom was the artist, and what he came up with is so much better than I had ever imagined. I love that there are some buds, and some petals falling- life and death. Just perfect.

My DH also spent a little time in the chair, getting his first tattoo on Thursday. Here it is:

Nice and simple, just our names. In a triangle, because he's kind of a math geek. He loves lines and angles.

Other than that, I've been reading A LOT. I finished the first two Twilight books, and am 150 plus pages into the third book. I came with the first, and bought the second, third and fourth here. Because I couldn't wait. SO addicting.

More CSA

2009-07-21T11:12:00.003-04:00

Lots more CSA goodies last week! More beets, green beans and a few heirloom beans, tomatoes, cucumber, zucchini, blueberries, peaches, plums, black currants, cherries, some fennel fronds, green pepper, banana peppers and some lovely flowers.

We've already used the blueberries (blueberry waffles), tomatoes, zucchini, and some other goodies. Going to make some black currant schnapps with the currants. Need to get on that tonight.

Lots of knitting going on. Lots of prepping for the Knit and Crochet show, and got my packages off for the Sock Summitt. We leave for vacation on Saturday, and I can't wait! I sooo need a break!

Fun times.

2009-07-13T10:46:00.002-04:00

The last few weeks have been a bit nutty, healthwise for me. I was sick about 2 weeks ago. So sick I could barely move. So sick that when I moved, it felt like the left side of my abdomen had a knife in it. After a few days of this massive pain, I went to my Dr, who told me I likely have Diverti.culitis. They treated me with antibiotics, and it got better. They sent me for a pelvic sonogram, which was normal, also supporting their hypothesis. At this point, since I'm young (33), they wanted me to see a GI, to make sure everything is OK. So, it was off to the GI this past friday. After waiting for an hour, I finally saw him. And his recommendation was to have a colonoscopy to rule out anything else. They want to make sure I"m OK in there, and there isn't anything else causing the abdominal pain. So, I get to do that in a few weeks. Since I closed down my Infertility blog, I will post the details here.

Now on to some actual fun things!! I spent some time at the pool this weekend, my daughter had a swim meet and did great! Then I took her for some mommy/daughter time and we saw "UP". I absolutely loved it. I laughed and cried, and it was just very well done. I highly recommend it. Just be warned if you're dealing with (or have dealt with) infertility or pregnancy loss. Definitely sad in the beginning. But other than that, it was absolutely amazing. And it was fun to spend some quality time with my Celia. Yesterday I also spent some time dyeing to get ready for the Knit and Crochet Summer Show in Buffalo next month. I got tons done, and had fun. A friend even came over to hang out and she and her niece did some dyeing too. That was fun!

I also have the last 2 weeks of CSA deliveries to catch up on.
Last Saturday (July 4th) was really yummy. We had blueberries, green beans, banana peppers, green pepper, zucchini, cucumber, collard greens, kale, red onion, beets and some flowers.

This week, was more collard greens and kale, blueberries, green beans, banana peppers, beets, potatoes, peaches, cherries, green pepper, red onion and zucchini.

I made pickled beets on Saturday night, so in a few days they'll be ready to try. One bit of the Kale was fried up with some bacon, onions, garlic, salt and pepper, and served with buttered pasta and parmesan cheese. Really fantastic. I forgot to take a pic this week, but last weeks' pick is on the camera. I have to say I really love getting all of the yummy produce every week. SO good, and worth every penny if you ask me.

SP14 questionnaire

2009-07-07T12:03:00.003-04:00

I'm back into swaps, and having fun with them! Though I'm not hostessing this time (first time in years not hostessing!), I'm still participating. Here is my questionnaire! Hope my pal finds the answers helpful. :)

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love anything that is really soft to the touch. I'm not allergic to wool, but sensitive to anything even remotely scratchy. I love blends too, especially interesting ones. Always on the lookout for something new and different.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have a really nice needle holder that my SP made me way back (SP7 I think?) for my long needles, and my circs and dpns are in a case that I bought at Maryland Sheep and Wool this year. The Knitpicks Options are in the binder it came with.

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 hardcore for 5 years now, but on and off since I was 5. My aunt taught me when I was 5, but I only learned the knit stitch (and couldn't understand why it didn't look like "knitting". Now I'm in the know, and have been knitting non-stop for the last 5 years.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have a list at The Things I want, my username is sbidwell.

5. What's your favorite scent?
I love lavendar, vanilla and citrus scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Oh yes! I love milk chocolate, twizzlers, starburst, skittles, and most fruity candies. Anything cherry/red is good- but not cinnamon red- that breaks my mouth out in sores. Learned that the hard way in Junior High when I ate an entire pack of Big Red gum.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I'm into scrapbooking, knitting, spinning, dyeing yarn/roving, beading, rubber stamping, quilting, sewing, cooking, photography... I consider myself an Equal Opportunity Crafter. :)

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, pop and the like. Not at all a fan of country or rap.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Blue and purple are my favorites. I really don't care much for orange, but most other colors are good.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I have 2 kids (a 16 month old and a 5 year old), and a husband. No pets anymore (the baby has asthma, so we had to find a home for our cat).

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear scarves, hats and mittens. Not ponchos.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I like to knit socks, but have been getting into more lace lately. I finally completed my first shawl, Ishbel, which I absolutely love, and now am hooked.

13. What are you knitting right now?
I've got a Swallowtail shawl going, a top (Buttercup), a few socks, a few baby/kid sweaters, and more that I can't think of at the moment.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
I do!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I prefer circs, but do use straights for some things. I love bamboo/wood first, but also like the metal ones from KnitPicks or Inox.

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

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Um...at least 4 years I think? Needs to be frogged but never got to it.

18. What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
Probably Halloween. I celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
I collect yarn, paper for scrapbooking, beads, fabric and wine.

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 like Chrissy Gardiner's new Sock book. I have a subscription to Interweave Knits only.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'm open to anything!

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, I am! I wear a size 10 wide shoe. Darn pregnancy made my feet grow a full size and width. But sooo worth it!

23. When is your birthday?
June 25th, just turned 33.

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
Of course! I'm Shelbyknits

boggart- camp game 3

2009-07-07T07:15:00.001-04:00

I'm chosing to "Riddikulus" my giant spider boggart. He now looks really silly, is upside down, and covered in hot pink silly string. He keeps getting his legs caught on it, and is completely unable to flip back rightside up. SO funny!!

I will try to do the picture later...must go deal with a wee one at the moment.

I hate hospitals.

2009-07-03T20:53:00.002-04:00

Really, I do. Hospitals are not fun places to be, especially when you're there with your 16 month old who is having trouble breathing. My day was perfectly planned today. I was going to get up, do some dyeing, be done by 1, head to the pool with the kids and hubby (or at least Celia), and then go to our neighbor's annual 4th of July party. That was the plan. Til Seth got sick again this week. It was Wednesday that it got bad, so I took him into the doc for a listen- we both agreed that pred.nisolone was required. He sounded just awful, and even after a neb treatment an hour before, was still wheezing nicely. Then yesterday, he had a bit of a fever. So we started him on antibiotics, since it was likely that his congestion was going to something more.

And this morning, he sounded horrible. Worse than yesterday, definitely worse than the day before. So I threw on some clothes, and took him to the ER. After several neb treatments, and an ambulance ride, we are at the hospital for the night. He sounds much better now, but we're being extra careful and keeping him in for observation for the night. And neb treatments every 4 hours. Poor sweetie. I just wish he'd outgrow the asthma already.

And the icing on the cake? I nearly went to the ER myself this week due to stomach pain. Severe stomach pain, which appears to be diver.ticulitis. At 33, I have it. And it sucks. I knew it was bad, since my mom has it, but there is nothing like the amount of pain I was in earlier this week. I couldn't move without feeling like a knife was being twisted in my lower left side. Not fun at all. You know it hurts when knitting is the LAST thing you want to do.

On the plus side, I did get some knitting done later this week. I have been working on the Swallowtail Shawl out of Malabrigo Sock. Can I say how much I LOVE Malabrigo sock? It is just fabulous. Really fabulous! It makes me happy every time I pick up the shawl. And I'm not screwing it up too badly! It's a miracle.

Off to lay down on my little pull out chair, and knit. Provided of course, the baby falls asleep early enough.

game 2 part 2

2009-07-03T20:52:00.001-04:00

When in doubt, go to the library! Said by Ron Weasley.

HSKS 8 game 2

2009-06-30T18:56:00.003-04:00

Good Luck and Have Fun!!
Let the anagram solving begin!
In the second volume of the HP books by JK Rowling, The (#1)Chrome Cab Festers, we continue to learn the incredible adventures of Hogwarts student (#2) Parry He Trot and his friends (#3) Oral Weensy and (#4) Angering Her More. Belonging to the house of (#5) Dry Off Grin, they attend Defense Against the (#6) Ark Darts taught by Wizarding celebrity (#7) Oracle Dorky Light, a none-too-bright fellow who cannot even handle pixies!

In The (#8) Chrome Cab Festers, we also meet Dobby a (#9)See Flu Oh for the first time. Determined Dobby seeks to sabotage the return of (#10) Parry He Trot to Hogwarts and is pretty persistent but is unsuccessful. After a few weeks at school, the deceased Ravenclaw student who haunts the girls lavatory, also known as (#11) My Molten Grain, shows (#12) Parry He Trot and (#13) Oral Weensy an old empty diary that dropped through her ghostly form out of thin air!

Many nifty things continue to happen for the next several months… we won’t go into all the juicy details right now… however, the ending is prime reading indeed!! (#14) Parry He Trot finally kills Tom Riddle’s (a.k.a #15 Mold Voter) sneaky diary (which we now know is a #16 Crux Rho) and saves the sister of (#17) Oral Weensy, (#18) Gayly Nine Sew!!!

Oh! Of course, we must mention that the thickheaded (#19) Oracle Dorky Light unintentionally erased his own memory, so he won’t be back for book three, The (#20) Snob In A Froze Parka…

1. Chamber of Secrets
2. Harry Potter
3. Ron Weasley
4. Hermione Granger
5. Gryffindor
6. Dark Arts
7. Gilderoy Lockhart
8. Chamber of Secrets
9. House Elf
10 Harry Potter
11. Moaning Myrtle
12. Harry Potter
13. Ron Weasley
14. Harry Potter
15. Voldemort
16. Horcrux
17. Ron Weasley
18. Ginny Weasley
19. Gildeory Lockhart
20. Prisoner of Azkaban

ETA: Fixed spelling of #16- I can't spell!!

CSA week 7

2009-06-25T21:17:00.000-04:00

Last week's share was huge again!! We had Mushrooms, sugar snap peas, regular peas, cauliflower, peppers, more beets, romaine lettuce, red new potatoes, mint, zucchini, cucumbers, and I'm sure I'm missing something. They also gave us extra cucumbers, potatoes, and some flowers! The peonies are just gorgeous, and love the pink little flowers in with them. Brightened our house this week, for sure!

Overall, I'm thrilled with this CSA. We get tons of food, and it's all incredible.

Here's a pic of some potatoes I made last week- fried them up in some olive oil, with the onions and green pepper, salt and pepper. SO much flavor, so tender and yummy, and just fresh.

csa weeks 3-6

2009-06-19T13:41:00.003-04:00

I've missed af ew weeks posting pics/info on the CSA! Here is what we got week 3:

Lettuce, spinach, rhubarb, strawberries, mint, asparagus, spring onions, and peas! Yummy salads, made another rhubarb/strawberry crisp, some mojitos, and sauteed the peas with olive oil, a bit of butter, salt and pepper.

Week 4 I missed pics of week 4. I know there were more lettuces, peas, strawberries, spring onions, and mint, tomatoes and mushrooms.

Week 5: again, missed pics. or they aren't off the camera yet...not sure which. Definitely more lettuce, tomatoes, mushrooms, pak choi, 2 kinds of peas, turnips, white new potatoes, strawberries, and something else I'm sure I'm forgetting. Oh, the flowers- they had extras and gave them to us. Yay!

Week 6 was more lettuce, 2 kinds of peas, beets, more turnips, red new potatoes, green pepper, onions, strawberries and maybe more- don't remember again. This one I know I have a pic of on my camera.

So far we're really enjoying getting fresh veggies and fruit every week. Loving the quality of the produce- made the potatoes with the onions and pepper the other day, and they were so tender and delicious.

ETA: Pic from week 6.

Happy June.

2009-06-16T21:00:00.000-04:00

Wow, is it really June already?! June has always been my favorite month- since my B-day is on the 25th. I can't believe I haven't posted in SO long! Lots has been going on here. Lots of yarny news coming, so stay tuned! But for now...

I've joined the HSKS 8 Summer camp, and I'm SO excited about that! It's going to be a blast. Looking forward to spoiling my pal rotten, and getting to know everyone in my cabin.

Here is my week 1 summer game!
Week #1: New to Camp!

Part 1: "What's in your trunk?"
elastics for my hair- to pull it back
extendable ears
earplugs (in case someone snores)
earbuds (for my muggle music player)
earl grey tea (for my morning pick-me-up)
everready batteries (you never know when you'll need batteries!)
everlasting gobstopper (I just watched Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory)
easter candy
earrings
earthworms

Part 2: WINGO
Still working on this...

W1:
W2:
W3:
W4:
W5:

I1:
I2:
I3:
I4:
I5:

N1:
N2:
N3:
N4:
N5:

G1:
G2:
G3:
G4:
G5:

O1:
O2:
O3:
O4:
O5:

Part 3: Get to know your pals:

My spoilee is Nosheepforchelle, and she had so many projects that I loved it was hard to pick one. BUT, I selected her Ishbel because I love the color- a deep blue, and I just finished my Ishbel, so it was fun to see how she did hers. Love it!
Jellybeaninc is my spoiler, and she has some great Twilight socks in purples (my favorite color!), which I just love. Had to comment on them.

CSA week 2

2009-05-20T21:51:00.002-04:00

Here is the last share from the CSA. Love, love, love!!

We've got:
spinach
boston lettuce
romaine lettuce
watercress
snap peas
rhubarb
strawberries
mint
spring onions
asparagus

Let's just say, we've had several salads with the different lettuces and watercress. Sauteed spinach, roasted asparagus, and a strawberry/rhubarb crisp. And more to come. Loving all the fresh veggies. I've never tried watercress before, so it was awesome to get to try that. Really yummy!

girls weekend

2009-05-18T22:08:00.000-04:00

So for the last few years, my FIL, husband and his two BILs went camping for a weekend in October. They decided that a guys weekend would be a fun way to get together, get to know each other better, and have some fun. When I saw my two SILs in March, they suggested we do the same thing as girls, along with my MIL. So that happened this past weekend.

Overall, it was fun. It was good to get to hang out with no other obligations (kids, spouses, etc). We relaxed, got massages, ate some yummy food, and drank some. And of course, I knitted a bit, while they scrapbooked and watched movies. It was very productive! I ended up making lots of progress on my Ishbel, and even finished it! Here is the unblocked photo:

So on Saturday as we were waiting for massages, I noticed a sign on a building across from where the spa was. It was for a tattoo place. I've been wanting another one for quite some time now, so I figured it wouldn't hurt to see if they had any openings. So I went in, and they were booked solid. But they said I could try calling after 6:30 pm and see if anything was available. I called, and there wasn't. So she said she'd take my number and call me if things were looking good. About 20 minutes later, my cell rang and I was in the car on my way to get my third tattoo! Yay!!

I had wanted to do something for my kids, so I went with simple. Each of their names around my ankle, with a heart separating them. Here it is:

It didn't hurt too badly, except for the place near the ankle bone. It was SO worth it. I love it, the script he chose was perfect, and I'm just so thrilled with it. Now to plan my next one- which will be bigger. And on my back/shoulder. Hmmm...

I got home Sunday afternoon, and slept for 2 hours. I was exhausted!! So glad this coming weekend is a long weekend. I really need it!

Huge news!

2009-05-12T07:42:00.000-04:00

I have some really big, really awesome news!!

So, I was looking on Ravelry the other day, and saw something about the TKGA Knit and Crochet show happening this summer. In Buffalo! Which is where I'm from. At first, I was thinking it might be fun to go up for it and go with my mom, since she always comes down to Maryland for Sheep and Wool and came last year to Stitches East. And then it dawned on me...that it might be fun to try to apply for a vendor spot. If they actually had any left. So I talked to my DH about it, and talked to my mom about it (she's been a great sounding board for me). And I came to the conclusion that I should absolutely apply, and see what happens!

So yesterday, I faxed the application over, and 3 hours later, I got an e-mail that I have been accepted, and will be a vendor! So, there will be tons of dyeing happening at my house over the next 3 months. And tons of Harry Potter colorways to come up with! I'm over the moon with excitement. Cannot wait!! I'm thrilled that my first solo big show will be in my hometown. With my mom there to help me. And some good friends and other family members there to support me. I am still in shock. And in that "what the heck was I thinking?!!" mentality. But I am SO excited.

I leave you with a pic of some of the yarn that will be at the show!

CSA

2009-05-09T22:40:00.004-04:00

I've been such a crappy blogger lately! I'm really going to work on that! I have some great posts a'brewing, from Maryland Sheep and Wool, a few dyeing days at my place, and lots of other stuff. But first, I want to post about the new thing we've started doing this year- a CSA. One of the ladies in one of the knitting groups I go to and I have decided to split a CSA share this summer, and today was the first pick up! I met up with her, got the goods, and we split them up at her place.

Here is a pic of my half:

Here you see some purple cabbage, lettuce, spring onions, asparagus, strawberries, and mint. They were going to include radishes, but since neither of us will eat them, they gave us extra asparagus instead. Yum! And they also gave us 2 extra containers of berries, so we had double. I got them home, and stashed everything in the fridge and went outside to work in our garden. We did eat the lettuce for dinner, as well as the berries for dessert. And some mint in mojitos. It rocked. The salad was probably the yummiest salad I've had in ages. Yay for fresh produce!

So I had started loads of seedlings about 2 months ago...and they were doing great! Until someone (a rat) decided to eat the tops off of the broccoli, so they ended up being moved outside, where they'd have a chance at survival. Let's just say that they were sad, and neglected after going outside (not enough watering...less sunlight...). So I was going to plant the pathetic little things, but plan on going to pick up some actual plants this week or next. Until our neighbor gave me his extras! Now I have a few tomato and pepper plants that absolutely will survive. And the peas are already growing out in the garden, and I planted the beans today (better late than never...). We also got the beds surrounded with fencing to keep out the adorable veggie-eating bunnies. I am curious to see what will grow. We'll either end up with TONs of tomato plants or just a few.

For some knitting content- I finally finished Celia's first pair of socks! They are out of my yarn, that Celia helped me dye, and they are fabulous. Black with pinks. Really pretty. I can't wait to show them to her tomorrow! I've also made some real progress on Ishbel, which is the first lace project I've really made actual progress on. And it seems to be working and turning out really pretty. Can't wait to see how it turns out!

And last but not least, Happy Mothers Day to all of you mothers out there! I'm looking forward to a breakfast of blueberry pancakes, some good quality time with Celia, Seth and the DH, and hopefully some dyeing time. So much to do and so little time!!

TGIF!

2009-04-17T09:43:00.002-04:00

I've been looking forward to this weekend for months! Last fall, at my knitting group, some of the ladies were talking about learning to dye at a class. I suggested we all get together some day in the spring, and dye at my place! So, tomorrow is the day! I think there will be about 10 of us (give or take a few), and we're going to set up out in my back yard, and have a dyeing day! I am so excited to get to spend an entire day dyeing, chatting, and hanging out with some knitting friends! It is going to be a blast! I haven't dyed in a group since the class I took a few years back. Some of the ladies haven't dyed before, and some have, which will be a fun combination. Can't wait to see what everyone does with their colors/yarn!

I can't wait to spend the day outside, dyeing, playing with color, drinking some wine, and just chilling. Is it tomorrow yet?!

Crosspost

2009-04-06T10:59:00.001-04:00

I try not to crosspost too often, but I am short on time, and had to post some great pics I took this weekend!! Here you go!

Some knitting content to come!

This weekend, we spent a lot of time outside! The weather was lovely, warm, breezy, and sunny. And, our beautiful cherry tree was in bloom- each day getting a few more blossoms to pop out. So I took advantage of the situation, and took TONS of pictures of it. I got to play with my new camera a LOT, and got some amazing pics. Some I plan to blow up and put in our bathroom as art, and maybe put a few of them in Celia's room too.

We also took some time to work on our gardens. We bought the wood for the raised beds, and soil, and started working on them. Nathan also tilled all of the soil. The area where the raised bed is, was all grass before we got our hands on it this weekend. There is also another one to the left of the brick-bordered garden. The brick one is what we had last year, so we're really increasing our garden space. We also loaded them with soil, and planted some peas. The others will wait, as it's still too cool here at night to plant the tomatoes or other goodies. However I did make two window boxes for my kitchen window- one with lettuce, and the other with herbs I started.

Then a few great shots I got of the kids:

Can you tell how much I LOVE my new camera?!

Thank you!

2009-03-31T22:00:00.003-04:00

My SP13 pal sent me the big reveal package a few weeks ago, and things have been so crazy that I completely forgot to blog about it! Bad girl- I need to be slapped.

Here is what I opened to find:

Some amazingly yummy fiber, which is just SO soft, and yummy, and amazing. I love that it's natural. So soft! I know I already said that, but it is! Then there was a drop spindle. Now the funny part about that is...that the very evening that the package arrived, I had a friend coming over to teach her how to spin!! So I parted with an old spindle and let her take that to play with, and now have a great pretty one, that I absolutely love. Also included, is some emu oil (great for cuticles she said), and some other Colorado things- a book, note cards, CHOCOLATE, and some yummy chocolate covered toffee. SO good!

So she also revealed herself to me- She is Marin, and she is absolutely fantastic. She did such a great job spoiling me, and I had such a blast with SP13!! Thanks so much for making it such a great swap Marin!

And this is the yarn I spun up the night I taught my friend to spin. This is the yummy yarn my SP sent me a while back, the SP colorway, Starry Night. It's absolutely gorgeous!! I tried SO hard to make it really uneven, because I was going for lots of texture, and it actually worked! Yay!!

are you going??

2009-03-04T23:14:00.001-05:00

To the Homespun Yarn Party?! I will be there! As a vendor!!! I'm so excited about this opportunity, and can't wait to check out what loads of other dyers/artists have. It's going to be SO much fun!!

Rats=DESTASH!!

2009-02-12T09:35:00.017-05:00

I'm doing a huge destash here! Here is the first batch of pics. I have some rats burrowing in my house, and the work will cost over 2K to fix. So, we're in need of some cash fast. E-mail me at shelby AT bidwellfamily DOT net if you're interested. OR pm me on Ravelry at shelbyknits. All prices do NOT include shipping, that will be extra depending on how you want it shipped.

First we have some KnitPicks sock yarn in some fun colorways. The Simple Stripes, I will take 4.00 for the two skeins (SOLD), Sock Garden I'll take 5.00 for the two, and the Memories I'll take 6.00 (pending) for the two skeins.

This is 8 skeins of Plymouth Yarn Jeannee, Yarn Content: 51% Cotton, 49% Acrylic, 110 yds/50g ball. I paid 3.50 per skein, I'll take 25.00 for the whole lot.

Here we have some Lana Grossa sock yarn, Lang Jawoll, and Wildfoote sock yarn. For each set, I'll take 12.00.

This Fleece Artist is incredibly hard for me to part with. I love it so much, but have other colorways I love more. We have Tiger (merino for 16.00), Midnight (Somoko for 20.00) and Wildflower (seawoolfor 20.00- SOLD).

Here is some Koigu KPPPM, which I'll take 20.00 for both skeins (sold), Tofutsies, which I'll take 12.50 for, Savvyminx sock yarn, which I'll take 15 for (SOLD), and some pretty Wool in the Woods, Cyclone. Both skeins are 20.

Here is a huge lot of Koigu KPPPM and Kersti mill ends. Some skeins are larger (nearly full length) and others are shorter. I know that I paid $60 for the whole bunch, but will let it go for $40. (SOLD)

Now for some Lorna's Laces. Shepherd Sock. The first skein is Childs Play, which I'll let go for $9.00. The other colorways are Tickled Pink (sold), Lakeviewsold) and Black Pearl sold) Each pair will be 18.00.

Here are some Blue Moon Socks That Rock, the first two are from the 2007 sock club- Monsoon sold) and Silkie Socks that rock Walking on the wild tide, which are both wound into balls. I cast on for the socks but frogged them. The full amount is there. The next skein is Flower Power (also from the 2007 Rockin Sock club). The Monsoon, I'll take 16.00 sold) for, the Flower Power will be 18.00 (pending) and the Silkie will be 20.00. The next two skeins are sock yarn from Tess Designer Yarns. These will each be $15.

Here we have a skein of some Sundara Sock in Night Blossom(SOLD) Sundara Fingering Silky Merino in Life Aquatic from the Seasons club Winter edition. I'll let this go for 55.00 (SOLD). Then we have some more Socks that Rock- Blue Brick Wall and Firebird (SOLD), both of which will be 18.00.

PLease let me know if you would like anything! I'll be going through more yarn tonight, and adding more shortly (including some Kauni).

And another thank you

2009-02-03T20:52:00.004-05:00

I had a pleasant surprise when I got home from Miami! My pal from the Starbucks and Yarn swap, Ashley sent me a ROAK package! I had spoiled her during that swap, so it was such a surprise to get something from her! Inside, is a beautiful cowel, that is in one of my favorite colors. So soft, and warm! Then there is the lotion which is really pretty and silky smooth. I love it. And the chocolate was great! It's already gone. Did I just admit that?! :) Then she put in these adorable sheep post its, and I love them! LOVE me some post-its! The lip gloss is one of my favorite kinds too- so soft. Thanks Ashley!! You really made my day.

Thanks pal!

2009-02-03T20:23:00.004-05:00

I'm so horrible! I received a fabulous package from my SP13 right before I left for Miami. And I've been trying to find time/energy to post, and now I'm finally doing it. Just a week plus late. I am such a lucky gal, that's for sure.

Included, was some amazing fabric which I can't wait to use!! it's going to make an awesome apron or knitting tote or something great. I love it so much! Skulls, knitting needles, and other awesomeness. SO fun. Then we have a great book on knitting socks with handpainted yarn. I love the patterns and can't wait to cast on. The yarn is just perfect too! blues, purples, gold- i absolutely love it. Then we have a little kit, with the chibi needles, a mini-hook, and a pendant-needle sizer. I have been looking at these for months thinking about ordering one, and now I dont' have to! Then there are some awesome mood-beads. I'm going to make a fun bracelet with it. I may make 2, one for me and one for my daughter- her fifth birthday is coming up in a few weeks.

Here are some pics:

And here is a pic of a few books I'm working on reading. Not that I have a lot of time to read right now, but I'm trying.

I'll admit I'm not handling this whole working mom thing very well, and have been struggling a lot more especially with Seth being sick all the time. My therapist recommended these books, so I'm giving them a shot. Hopefully it will help put things into perspective. Plus Seth had a little surgery today, had tubes put in his ears, so I'm hoping that it will get better and he will stop getting sick so much. Thankfully the procedure was fast, and he's doing great now.

Miami

2009-01-28T21:13:00.002-05:00

I have two thank you posts coming! But each one deserves it's own post, so they will be up soon.

I just spent 3 days in Miami. I went down early Saturday (left the house at 2am- ouch!), and got home at 2am on Tuesday morning. It was a fast trip, but amazing. The reason I went was to go to my aunt Debbie's memorial service. She was buried in Buffalo back in August, but since most of her life was spent in Miami, they had a big memorial there for her. It was awesome. I was thankfully able to stay with my uncle, grandmother and cousins to save some cash, which was a huge help. And I was able to help out, and just enjoy spending lots of time with my family.

The memorial service was lovely. I'm so glad I was able to go, and was wonderful to see everyone. I ended up going out both Saturday and Sunday nights with my cousins. Who knew clubbing in the Grove could be so much fun! Fat Tuesdays and Jaeger-bombs. MAN did we have some fun!!

finally finished!

2009-01-14T11:21:00.003-05:00

I've had some fun finishing projects lately. I finally finished this:

This is a quilt that I made for Celia. I finished the top after she was born, but never put it together. Now it's finally done! I absolutely love it, and she does too. It only took me 5 years to finish it, but it's done! Can you tell I'm excited?

fun meme

2009-01-08T11:43:00.003-05:00

This looked like fun when I saw it on Robin's blog.

The things I have done are in black.
1. Started my own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than I can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world
8. Climbed a mountain
10. Sung a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched lightening at sea
14. Taught myself art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown my own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of my ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught myself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing (indoor)
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had my portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had my picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Rode an elephant

ETA: My husband reminded me that he did get me flowers at least once for no reason at all... My bad!

thank you

2009-01-06T19:40:00.002-05:00

My SP13 has struck twice in a week!! I received a package from her on Saturday, and it blew my mind! It was a pampering package, and had loads of awesome goodies! First up is a beautiful tea cup and some tea. Some bath herbs, hand cream and soap, some yummy candy, including loads of orange chocolate (my favorite!!), twizzlers and Reeses christmas bells (my other two favorite candies!). Then was a few Hanukkah goodies- a paint-your-own menorah, which Celia and I have already painted, some candles and a dreidel. SO cool! I absolutely love everything- thank you so much!!

Then, yesterday, I got home from work to see this: a package with the incredible SP13 roving from !! I am so excited to spin this up! I love the colorway so much, and it's going to be absolutely gorgeous.

I am so spoiled, thank you SO much pal!!!

merry christmas

2008-12-27T10:12:00.003-05:00

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?

2008-12-14T20:41:00.003-05:00

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!

2008-11-28T20:38:00.002-05:00

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

2008-11-24T22:04:00.002-05:00

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!!

2008-11-23T19:06:00.003-05:00

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

2008-11-23T15:35:00.003-05:00

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!

2008-11-14T13:27:00.002-05:00

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

2008-11-13T22:49:00.001-05:00

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

2008-11-11T14:55:00.002-05:00

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

2008-11-06T08:57:00.006-05:00

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

2008-11-05T12:09:00.000-05:00

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

2008-10-31T09:36:00.001-04:00

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

2008-10-31T09:35:00.000-04:00

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

2008-10-24T09:54:00.004-04:00

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...

2008-10-24T09:52:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-10-10T09:27:00.004-04:00

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

2008-09-30T09:07:00.005-04:00

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

2008-09-24T13:32:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-09-24T13:31:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-09-22T12:35:00.004-04:00

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

2008-09-15T13:25:00.003-04:00

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

2008-08-28T15:58:00.004-04:00

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

2008-08-25T09:56:00.000-04:00

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

2008-08-22T07:12:00.004-04:00

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

2008-08-19T09:56:00.003-04:00

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

2008-08-11T22:05:00.003-04:00

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.

2008-08-11T11:45:00.001-04:00

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

2008-08-06T10:21:00.004-04:00

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

2008-07-30T09:28:00.003-04:00

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...

2008-07-30T09:14:00.002-04:00

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

2008-07-25T15:08:00.002-04:00

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

2008-07-15T08:51:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-07-09T22:26:00.002-04:00

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!!

2008-07-08T14:29:00.003-04:00

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

2008-07-08T11:48:00.001-04:00

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!

2008-07-01T20:26:00.002-04:00

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!!

2008-06-27T15:36:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-06-26T12:11:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-25T14:39:00.002-04:00

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!!

2008-06-24T09:08:00.003-04:00

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???

2008-06-19T19:24:00.004-04:00

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!

2008-06-19T14:25:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-06-12T11:50:00.004-04:00

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?!!

2008-06-05T15:00:00.004-04:00

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!!

2008-06-02T10:31:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-05-20T21:49:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-04-08T17:18:00.002-04:00

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

2008-04-08T16:51:00.001-04:00

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

2008-03-12T13:27:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-02-25T21:45:00.002-05:00

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

2008-02-25T13:49:00.003-05:00

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!

2008-02-20T00:09:00.000-05:00

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

could be 3 days.

2008-02-15T11:42:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm surprised here! I saw my OB yesterday, and he wants me to stop the Pro.cardia (which has been keeping the contractions calm-ish) on Monday. He wants me to wait until Monday, because if the contractions start up pretty quickly, they'll deliver the baby shortly after. So yikes! I'm a bit nervous, and excited. I have SO much to do before the baby comes! I have a feeling that this weekend will involve a lot of shopping, reskeining, and cleaning. At the very least, the meds are helping me to feel a LOT better, and not hurt nearly as much, so I have a feeling that next week will be pretty rough, regardless of whether I end up having the baby early or not. At least tomorrow will mark 36 weeks, so that's really good news!

organization rocks!

2008-02-13T20:53:00.003-05:00

So I ended up going through the rest of my stash and got a lot of things organized. I have almost 2 large bins full of sock yarn. Do you think I have a problem?? Some of the colorways I had forgotten I had. I even found a I had put away that I picked back up again! But for now, here are a few pics of what I've got. Not many pics, and it only shows about 1/3 of my stash... I loved playing with my stash, and getting inspired by the yarn I have!

And the scary part- I entered everything into a spreadsheet (which will eventually go into Ravelry. And the total yardage I have, is over 66,000 yards. Holy crap!

nesting

2008-02-09T10:53:00.001-05:00

Man am I nesting!! I am 35 weeks today, and have only 3 weeks and 2 full days before my C-section. I have SO much I want to get done, and can't do it all. Little things are driving me crazy. I went to grab something from my desk, and it's a mess! So I grabbed the 2 piles of patterns that have been sitting there for over a year (and falling off whenever I am looking for something that they're hiding), and FINALLY organized them in sheet protectors and binders. I am so proud of myself! This afternoon, while my husband is doing a few things around the house that need to get done (blinds, putting in a new cable jack), I'm going to relax with Celia, and maybe organize my stash. Right now there's no real system to how I have things. All weights are thrown in together. Since it's a low activity thing to do (at least less than scraping the bathroom wallpaper, which I really can't do right now but is driving me equally as crazy!), I'm going to go through and organize my stash a bit better. And actually take inventory of what I have. I'm usually really good at remembering things like that (and where they came from or if they were a gift, who they came from), but I found a skein the other day that I have NO idea where it came from. I'm sure I got it, but where did I buy it? That sort of thing drives me nutty.

So, hopefully I'll have some great pics to post tomorrow on my progress.

You make my day!

2008-02-05T19:17:00.000-05:00

Kerry is awesome! Apparently, I'm on her list of people who make her day! I am so touched! I met Kerry when we started hostessing the Secret Pal exchanges, and have been friends ever since! She is such a talented knitter, and has inspired me in SO many ways! Thanks for the nod Kerry!

Here is my list of 10 people who make my day:
Fairy God Knitter
Jody
Saun
Chrissy
Bobbi
trek
Stacey
Sheri
Robin
Stephanie

You all rock! And inspire me in so many ways! There are so many more who do the same. I've met so many amazing knitters through the last few years of blogging. Thanks for all of your inspiration!!

Scheduled- take 2

2008-02-05T11:40:00.001-05:00

My OB's office called this morning to work on details for my C-section/tubal ligation. Apparently when he looked at the calendar and picked a date, he didn't realize that he's at the other hospital all day that day! So, we're going with March 4th instead. At 2pm. I'm all scheduled, so let's hope that this is actually going to be the day. I'm curious to see how much it changes (which I completely expect it to). I'm guessing for the week earlier, once we see how my sugars are effecting everything. I'm being as good as possible, but sometimes it still doesn't matter.

some exciting news!

2008-02-03T16:24:00.000-05:00

A few months back, I was asked to design a colorway for the March sock club over at Robyn's Nest!. With Robyn's ideas, I came up with something I absolutely love! And it's now available for preorder here!! Go check it out! It's going to be a fantastic kit, if I may say so myself!

Scheduled!

2008-01-31T16:50:00.000-05:00

And, we've scheduled the C-section!! It's going to be Wednesday, March 5th at 9:30 in the morning. I'm SO excited!! Now let's just hope everything cooperates and I actually make it that far! I didn't with Celia (she was born at 38 weeks, and this date puts me at 38 weeks and 4 days). Thankfully I'll be having weekly sonograms to make sure all is well! And the best news- is that in the last 2 weeks, my cervix lengthened to 3.8 cm (from 3.0 cm)!! So this whole taking it easy/modified bedrest, whatever you want to call it seems to really be working with the medication well! Yeah!

update

2008-01-17T22:09:00.001-05:00

I saw my OB this morning, and he told me to up my dose to 20mg with how I've been feeling. Now I have been doing this about half the time, so maybe it will help.

He also wanted me to move up my appointment with Dr H (my MFM) and his office called over and got me in TODAY at 10:30!! I guess you throw the words "possible preterm labor" around, and slots magically appear. Thank goodness. I'm curious to see what's going on in there. My fingers are crossed for a nice long, closed cervix.

And the good news- he said that next appointment in 2 weeks, we'll schedule my C-section/tubal at Shady Grove! He said it's so much closer for me, so why not? I loved that! Apparently the new rooms are really nice too- they just opened up a new wing. And this way, Dr. H can also be involved if necessary.

Then I saw my MFM, and waited what felt like forever! I got back, and they first checked my cervix, which is 3 cm, so nice and long. There is a channel of fluid around it though, which apparently is a sign that I've been having lots of contractions. Which I still am! She said to head home after the appointment (which I planned to do anyways), lay on my left side, and stay there for the rest of the week and through the entire weekend. That should give the increased medication enough time to really start working, and I should be much more comfortable. I asked her if I could still work from home this afternoon and tomorrow, and she was fine with that, as long as I'm laying down. And she was pleased that I'm working from home most of the time from now on. She said between that and the meds, I should be feeling much less discomfort. I can't wait for that to happen!! And if the meds don' thelp, to call my OB and switch to something else. But I'm almost 32 weeks, and she said that after 34 weeks, they usually don't do too much to prevent labor.

Ok for now

2008-01-12T12:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I saw the OB who sent me to the hospital on Tuesday. I had seen her a few times during my last pregnancy, but not since then. I have to say I was really impressed! She really listened to what I was saying, my symptoms, and decided it would be a really good idea to put me on some medication to help stop the contractions. Or at least the background ones that don't seem to be doing anything, thus making me more comfortable. So now I'm on Pro.cardia every 6 hours. The dose depends on how I'm feeling. If it's a good day, I take one pill at a time, if I'm not feeling well, I can take 2 at a time. I will see my actual OB on Thursday to see how the medication is helping. She did talk about possibly pulling me out of work and keeping me on modified bedrest for the rest of the pregnancy. However she did say that for now, that decision is mine. If I want to keep working (which I do), I can. Just to listen to my body and if I need to take it easy, to make sure to do that. I also spoke with HR yesterday to see what my options are and what benefits will kick in when, if I do end up on bedrest. And I have to say I'm VERY lucky to work where I do. I need to speak with my supervisor next week to arrange a plan for how to proceed just in case. For now I'm glad to be able to keep working. We have some major deadlines that I'd feel awful abandoning. So this works out for the best.

Thanks for all of your well wishes! It really helps a lot!!

I'm ok

2008-01-10T21:38:00.000-05:00

I ended up heading back to the hospital, but thankfully with the same drug, everything stopped. The baby is fine, and thankfully I'm off bedrest. They told me regular activity was fine this time. Not sure why, but I'll take it! I see someone from my OBs office tomorrow, and will find out what to do from here.

Bedrest

2008-01-10T12:36:00.000-05:00

I haven't had a fun week at all! Tuesday at work in the morning, I was getting a little crampy here and there. By 1 or so, it started being more persistent. I talked to a few other women in my office who are due a few weeks after me, and they calmed me down. But then it started getting a bit worse. So I called my OBs office, and they wanted me to come in. After they checked a few things, they decided to send me on over to the hospital to have me checked out. They were pretty sure I was contracting, but everything else appeared good. No dilation or anything.

So, I went to the hospital and got hooked up. Apparently I was contracting every 2 minutes, but they weren't actually productive contractions. They thought I might be dehydrated, so they hooked me up to an IV. After that didn't help, they did an injection of Ter.butaline, which slowed down the contractions. A second shot stopped them. It was annoying to be stuck in the hospital by myself (without any knitting!!) for 5 hours. Thankfully once they stopped, I was sent home pretty quickly with instructions to stay on bedrest until I go back to my OBs office on Friday. So yesterday I was home, laying down all day, and had about 8 contractions. Today, It's just past noon, and things were going well until about 11. I am not up to the worry point yet, (6 in an hour), but it's definitely a little annoying. Hopefully they'll stop soon, and I won't have to worry about it.

I've definitely been tired. And have had a headache since yesterday morning, which makes doing anyhting productive difficult. But I'm trying! I just wonder why I'm contracting?! I'm definitely NOT dehydrated today, since I've been drinking water like a mad woman. We'll see.

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-27T09:11:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that Christmas has come and gone already! This year has just flown by way too fast!!

Celia had a fantastic Christmas, was completely spoiled (but not too much!), and had a blast! She got a bike from Santa, and a scooter from her uncle Dave and aunt Heather (my bro and sil), both of which she LOVES!! She got on the scooter pretty much right away, and played outside for quite a while. One of the major perks of living in MD is that it was about 45 degrees outside and sunny. Great weather for Xmas! I did miss the snow a little, but I can get over that pretty quickly.

Santa brought me a few great things! A speaker system to plug my ipod in so I can listen to it anywhere, some Fleece Artist seawool from The Loopy Ewe (I got a $25 frequent shopper gc so I picked something out and when it arrived I had Nathan put it under the tree for me), AND some of the Harmony tips for my Knitpicks Options set. And 2 more sets of dpns for sock knitting. My inlaws also got us a gift certificate to the Melting Pot- YUMMY!!! We're hoping to use it before the baby comes!

So far the pregnancy is going well. I definitely have gestational diabetes again (though we knew that at week 10), so I"m having fun trying to come up with new ways to eat eggs for breakfast. I'm only allowed to have protein in the morning. NO carbs. Blech. My next try will be a sausage and cheese quiche that is crustless. Maybe tomorrow? I'm enjoying this week. While I do have to work (I only have 40 hours of vacation time saved up and kind of need that for maternity leave), I'm able to do so from the comfort of my couch. I'm doing some writing this week which I can do much better at home anyways, so talk about perfect timing. Plus my whole team took the week (or most of the week) off, so I'd be pretty lonely if I went in. So I get to be comfortable, in my PJs all day, and have my feet up. AND my daughter is at school and husband is at work. I have the whole house to myself!! And right now, my cleaning ladies are here doing their thing. So the house will be clean, and I didn't have to lift a finger. Talk about heaven!

Knitting hasn't been happening much lately. My attention span is absolutely shot, and I'm exhausted! I've been plugging away bit by bit on my Hogwarts swap 2 pals's socks (I haven't forgotten about you!!), and I'm about 3/4 of the way down the cuff, so I'm hoping to start the heel in the next day or two. I'm averaging about 10 rows a day before my hands get tired. I'm just glad I got the first sock done and I'm on to the second! I really am loving the way they're coming out though. My daughter wants me to make her a hat/gloves/scarf too. I started the hat, but have only gotten the ribbing done. When we had snow a few weeks ago she bundled up in my hat, scarf, and her baby gloves, so I gave up and bought her a set at the Children's Place. Just easier, and faster. And I want to get the socks for my pal done before I touch anything else. I initially had a goal to make 2 pairs of socks for myself for the hospital, but that's SO not going to happen. I'll just wear ones I've already knit instead. Unless I get a burst of energy, which I doubt will happen, since I've only got about 10 weeks to go!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season! And that you all have a Happy New Year!!

thanks!

2007-12-05T19:47:00.001-05:00

Thanks for all of the comments! We're all so excited to be having a healthy baby boy!

Our Thanksgiving was lovely, and it was really good to spend some time in Buffalo. The more I'm there, the more I want to move there. At least we made some steps towards making that happen!

Other things are going pretty well. Except for the last 2 days. I've had a stomach bug which really hasn't been any fun at all. We've also had a bit of snow, which has been nice. About 3 inches today! I slept a lot, ate a little, and relaxed. Got a little work done, but mostly took it easy. Thankfully I'm feeling better tonight.

It's official!!

2007-11-22T11:25:00.000-05:00

We're having a boy!! We had an ultrasound yesterday, and everything is perfect, and there is no doubt about it being a boy! Now we have to come up with names. And now, the knitting can truly begin!!

Have a happy Thanksgiving everyone!

KTS4 package received!!

2007-11-18T18:08:00.001-05:00

Wow! I came home Friday to a wonderful package from my KTS4 pal, Jo! Inside, were some amazing teas- River Shannon breakfast blend, Scottish breakfast blend and Earl Grey, all from Upton Teas, some cookies- chocolate tangerine and lime sugar, a Red Sox world series T-shrit for Celia, and a Red Sox world series bib for baby, some beautiful yarn from Cabin Cove- so soft!!!, and some lavendar. I was spoiled rotten! I have to say, the breakfast tea is really amazing, especially when paired with the lime sugar cookies. SO good! The chocolate tangerine cookies are really amazing too. Thanks for a fantastic package!! Yours is going in the mail tomorrow!

Auction!!!

2007-11-09T16:04:00.000-05:00

Here's the info for the Damascus Y-Women annual auction! I'll definitley be there!!

Damascus Y-Women’s
Annual Rockin’ Fifties
Gift & Craft Auction

LIVE AUCTION
SILENT AUCTION

FREE DOOR PRIZES
FREE REFRESHMENTS

Tuesday, November 13, 2007
6PM
Preview at 5:30PM

First Time at NIGHT!!!

At

Damascus American Legion
10201 Lewis Drive
Damascus, MD
(turn at the CVS on Rt. 27)

Any Questions?
Call 240-723-0473 Or Visit www.damascusywomen.com

2007-11-08T10:27:00.001-05:00

I've mentioned before on this blog, that this time, getting pregnant for me was much more challenging. As part of the Infertility community, I'm posting my story below. It's National Infertility Awareness Week, and I'm doing my part here to spread the word.

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Here's my story for Blogatavism, for the My Story Project.

I got married in 2002, and was immediately ready to start having kids. My husband preferred to wait a while, considering we had just gotten married, he just got his Masters, we both started new jobs, and moved 2 states (and 8 hours) away from our families. This made absolute sense to me, so we decided to wait about a year and a few months. The first month we tried to get pregnant, it worked! I had a great pregnancy (minus the gestational diabetes), and gave birth to an amazing little girl (Celia), on February 26, 2004. Just 5 days before our 2 year wedding anniversary. After Celia was about 1 year old, we decided to wait until she was closer to 18 months to get pregnant again, assuming it would be just as fast as last time. We decided to start in October, since we'd be going on a cruise that month, so why not make it memorable? The morning of the cruise, I ovulated, and was SO excited with the timing. 2 weeks later I got my first BFN. And it proceeded to be like that until February. At my 6 month checkup with my OB/GYN, he asked how things were going, and since I was ovulating somewhat irregulary, somewhere between 6 and 8 weeks, he wanted to try me on clo.mid to see if it would help regulate me some. My first clomid cycle lasted 13 weeks...and no, I was not pregnant. I was devistated. At around 9 weeks, I called my OB/GYN's office, and was in a bit of a panic. He immediately said that this was NOT a normal reaction to clo.mid, and he wanted to send me for some more testing, at a Super Giant fertility clinic.

My first appointment with my RE was great! He was so optimistic, considering I had one successful pregnancy already. So we did all of the tests, and went back for another consult. He told me that I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (explains the irregular ovulating, and tendancy to gain weight easily but not be able to lose it). The next step was to test the hubby, which given his age and health shouldn't be an issue, and then we'd jump into IUIs as soon as we were ready. Since our insurance policy covered IUIs at 50%, we needed to save some cash, and wait until the following year so we could set aside some flexible spending dollars to help compensate. And that's when we got the letter in the mail- my new primary insurance needed a statement from the RE regarding my husband's sperm count, and the likelihood of it working with IUI. That's when my nurse called, asking us to come in for a consult. We had never talked about his semen analysis, so we assumed all was good. Little did we know, it was very, very bad. Extremely low (at 0.6x10^6, or 600,000) with very poor morphology. Not good news. He wanted to repeat the analysis and send hubby to a urologist to see why this was happening. We saw the Urologist, and there was nothing there that would cause such a low count. Now the question comes in- was it this low when we got pregnant with Celia? What changed in the last 4 years? NO IDEA! Anyway, it was on to IVF with ICSI- do not pass go, do not collect $200, without any other optinos.

On the plus side here, IVF was covered by BOTH of our insurance policies at 100%. This made that much easier to swallow, but emotionally, we knew it would be hard. In May 2007, we started our first cycle, only to have it postponed because of cysts. After my next cycle started, things were clear to start. We got a total of 10 eggs (only 3 of which were mature), and we got 5 little embryos out of it. Two of which didn't make it to transfer, and we did a 3 day transfer of 2 of our little embryos. Both took, but a week later, one had clearly stopped growing, leaving 1 healthy baby growing. I'm at nearly 22 weeks now, and without any complications, I should be giving birth, via C- section, in about 16-17 weeks.

Having insurance coverage made this whole experience a lot easier to swallow. When IUI was going to be covered at 50%, we helped fix it with adding a second policy which hopefully would have helped somewhat with the difference. IVF was covered at 100%, as were most of the meds (minus Crinone, which I paid out of pocket for). It helped me to focus on myself, and my husband and daughter throughout treatment. I didn't have to worry about her not being able to continue with gymnastics classes because of money. Or worry about buying her new clothes, or shoes when she needed them. We took a vacation this summer. All things we never would have been able to manage had we had to pay out of pocket. Most importantly, we're going to be giving her the brother or sister she's been asking for for the last year and a half. When we told her about the baby, she was SO excited. Any time we go to a store, she keeps talking about the things she needs to get for "my baby". It's not mine, it's hers. And none of this would have been possible without our insurance coverage. We are so lucky to have our policies, and I wish that everyone else was that lucky. IVF really took it's toll on me, physically and mentally. But I didn't have to worry about money at all, which made that part of it so much easier. I hope that things change some day, and IVF and other infertility treatments get more coverage, so that everyone else has the option to persue treatements without worrying about paying bills, or putting food on the table.

That's my story. I know how lucky I was, and am. I know how different Secondary Infertility is from primary infertility. But it still hurts, and changes you forever.