Question of the Week
If you were to stitch something to be passed on to future generations of your family as an heirloom, what would it be and why?
A family tree as far back as I could go. I designed/stitched a family tree for my grandparent's 60th wedding anniversary back in 1997 but it was limited to the generations after. I'd love to do a simple tree for my family to pass on to future generations. Someday ;)
StRIP Update
I've reduced my WIP pile by one this weekend and it wasn't a finish. I adopted out a WIP that I had essentially lost interest in and a post on the various boards prompted me to contact the poster that may have some use for it......she enthusiastically accepted so it's another one to mark off the list :)
Which WIP? Chatelaine Mystery IV....the one with the peacocks....the kit went (I kept the charts, she already had them and they aren't transferable anyway! Maybe a single peacock someday...with just a few grapevines....)
Of course I also started the celtic bookmark from Vegas, so my overall total hasn't actually decreased....yet. The bookmark is a lot more likely to get finished! Might manage a picture tonight to show off my color choices. I'm using Vikki Clayton's Ricordia/Aubergine/Carnation on Silkweaver's Plum Pudding evenweave.
8/16/2004
8/13/2004
All the Tea in China
First, as a followup from yesterday...yes, she was mistaken for a teacher by a new 7th grader ;) Otherwise she is despairing over her schedule as she has the "A" lunch (at 10:50) and only one class with one of her 2 girlfriends. The trauma of 9th grade!
DS was Mr. Nonstop-Chatter when I got home last night going on and on about the fun he had at school. I remember when DD started first grade - the excitement, anticipation and glee she met each and every day with. She still loves school, so I hope DS's joy continues as well.
I don't watch enough television to answer this week's Friday Five, so I've gotten inspiration from Daydreaming on Paper (link on the left there).
List the things you would not do for all the tea in China.
1 - Drive over the Mexican border
This is based on a horror-filled trip years ago to Rosarita for lobster from San Diego. The lobster was inedible, the return trip to California was a series of wrong turns and my grandmother saying "find a policeman to help us", and the hours and lines to make it back thru the crossing were interminable.
2 - Have Thanksgiving dinner with my ex's family
These people could ruin a cheese sandwich. After suffering thru "hard-boiled eggs in the gravy" for 4 years, I will NEVER do this again!
3 - Go camping
I am a civilized woman. I want running water, blow dryers and good lighting on vacation. Bugs need not apply.
4 - Drink Dr. Pepper or Mountain Dew
Give me a real Coke any day!
Enjoy the weekend all! I look forward to watching the Olympics, stitching and staying coooooool here in the desert!
DS was Mr. Nonstop-Chatter when I got home last night going on and on about the fun he had at school. I remember when DD started first grade - the excitement, anticipation and glee she met each and every day with. She still loves school, so I hope DS's joy continues as well.
I don't watch enough television to answer this week's Friday Five, so I've gotten inspiration from Daydreaming on Paper (link on the left there).
List the things you would not do for all the tea in China.
1 - Drive over the Mexican border
This is based on a horror-filled trip years ago to Rosarita for lobster from San Diego. The lobster was inedible, the return trip to California was a series of wrong turns and my grandmother saying "find a policeman to help us"
2 - Have Thanksgiving dinner with my ex's family
These people could ruin a cheese sandwich. After suffering thru "hard-boiled eggs in the gravy" for 4 years, I will NEVER do this again!
3 - Go camping
I am a civilized woman. I want running water, blow dryers and good lighting on vacation. Bugs need not apply.
4 - Drink Dr. Pepper or Mountain Dew
Give me a real Coke any day!
Enjoy the weekend all! I look forward to watching the Olympics, stitching and staying coooooool here in the desert!
8/12/2004
Miscellaneous Ramblings....
Art Quote of the Day (this appeared today over on the left side there)
"Painting, n.: The art of protecting flat surfaces from the weather, and exposing them to the critic." Ambrose Bierce
I can't help but extrapolate this to blogging and "being online" in general. The face we put online, in many cases, isn't necessarily the face we see in person. For some it's pretty close (me - what you see/read here is what you'd get in person), for some it's a bit further afield (the chattiest person online could be the quietest one in the room....and yes, I know a perfect example....L....) and some delight in just how much they can build an online persona in direct conflict with their "real" life (thankfully that example is from a previous life ;)). That "online face" is then exposed for criticism and expectations.....
Now, you might think I'm commenting on the folks I just met in Vegas....you'd be somewhat correct. I can honestly say that for every BB'er I've met in the last couple years, most are pretty darn close to the "persona" I've seen online. Vegas included several "re-meets" for me and it's always fun to see folks again in a new setting.
After yesterday's fun at the doctor's office, I spent the rest of the afternoon with the kiddos. It was their last day home before school started, so even though Mom was less-than-her-usual-enthusiastic-self, we did indulge in an afternoon movie. "Nightmare before Christmas" was a perfect companion to what little stitching I accomplished on Mirabilia's Christmas Elegance. A few chunks of green were managed even with the pain pills!
This weekend we'll be fulfilling our promise to DS for his birthday present: an aquarium. Though he has some grand plans after visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, I think I'll be able to talk him out of sharks and eels and into some nice Tetras and Angel fish.
My baby boy starts 1st grade today. He's been counting the days all week. He's also still taking the occasional afternoon nap, so I'm interested to see how well he stays awake in the afternoon! The "readiness" words the teacher sent home last month were still easy for him to read, so I'm pretty sure that part of first grade won't be an issue. It's just the sitting still part....LOL I think I have the only 6-yr old that doesn't like to color or get dirty playing outside.
My baby girl is going into 9th grade. During our clothes-shopping expedition a couple weeks ago, I talked her into a jean skirt. Now, you must understand that my daughter does *not* care for current fashion and wouldn't be seen dead in any skirt above her knee. She argues when I tell her to wear shorts (and for those that saw her in Vegas, it was only my *forbidding* her to bring jeans that had her in shorts - and somewhat cool - for the weekend). She will not wear shirts that are sleeveless, too tight or expose skin that shouldn't be exposed (I admit, some of that we've inflicted upon her, but she doesn't fight it *at all*). Her dress this morning: jean skirt (hits just below the knee - A-line), olive green silk camp-style shirt (which she professes is her favorite shirt - must be the silk) and brown flats. I bet she's mistaken for a teacher inside of an hour ;)
I can hardly wait to go home and hear about their days.....
"Painting, n.: The art of protecting flat surfaces from the weather, and exposing them to the critic." Ambrose Bierce
I can't help but extrapolate this to blogging and "being online" in general. The face we put online, in many cases, isn't necessarily the face we see in person. For some it's pretty close (me - what you see/read here is what you'd get in person), for some it's a bit further afield (the chattiest person online could be the quietest one in the room....and yes, I know a perfect example....L....) and some delight in just how much they can build an online persona in direct conflict with their "real" life (thankfully that example is from a previous life ;)). That "online face" is then exposed for criticism and expectations.....
Now, you might think I'm commenting on the folks I just met in Vegas....you'd be somewhat correct. I can honestly say that for every BB'er I've met in the last couple years, most are pretty darn close to the "persona" I've seen online. Vegas included several "re-meets" for me and it's always fun to see folks again in a new setting.
After yesterday's fun at the doctor's office, I spent the rest of the afternoon with the kiddos. It was their last day home before school started, so even though Mom was less-than-her-usual-enthusiastic-self, we did indulge in an afternoon movie. "Nightmare before Christmas" was a perfect companion to what little stitching I accomplished on Mirabilia's Christmas Elegance. A few chunks of green were managed even with the pain pills!
This weekend we'll be fulfilling our promise to DS for his birthday present: an aquarium. Though he has some grand plans after visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, I think I'll be able to talk him out of sharks and eels and into some nice Tetras and Angel fish.
My baby boy starts 1st grade today. He's been counting the days all week. He's also still taking the occasional afternoon nap, so I'm interested to see how well he stays awake in the afternoon! The "readiness" words the teacher sent home last month were still easy for him to read, so I'm pretty sure that part of first grade won't be an issue. It's just the sitting still part....LOL I think I have the only 6-yr old that doesn't like to color or get dirty playing outside.
My baby girl is going into 9th grade. During our clothes-shopping expedition a couple weeks ago, I talked her into a jean skirt. Now, you must understand that my daughter does *not* care for current fashion and wouldn't be seen dead in any skirt above her knee. She argues when I tell her to wear shorts (and for those that saw her in Vegas, it was only my *forbidding* her to bring jeans that had her in shorts - and somewhat cool - for the weekend). She will not wear shirts that are sleeveless, too tight or expose skin that shouldn't be exposed (I admit, some of that we've inflicted upon her, but she doesn't fight it *at all*). Her dress this morning: jean skirt (hits just below the knee - A-line), olive green silk camp-style shirt (which she professes is her favorite shirt - must be the silk) and brown flats. I bet she's mistaken for a teacher inside of an hour ;)
I can hardly wait to go home and hear about their days.....
8/11/2004
Biopsy update
(All medical today, so I won't feel ignored if you don't read!)
Had the biopsy done today (as previously mentioned) with good news and bad news resulting....
Good news - the endometrial tissue appeared "healthy" which means it's unlikely to contain "bad" (cancerous) cells and the issue I'm having is simply a hormonal imbalance and easily treatable.
Bad news - because it *was* healthy tissue, it didn't sample freely and boy-oh-boy did it hurt when she pulled of bits here and there (and still does). Results won't be in for 7-10 days.
Had the biopsy done today (as previously mentioned) with good news and bad news resulting....
Good news - the endometrial tissue appeared "healthy" which means it's unlikely to contain "bad" (cancerous) cells and the issue I'm having is simply a hormonal imbalance and easily treatable.
Bad news - because it *was* healthy tissue, it didn't sample freely and boy-oh-boy did it hurt when she pulled of bits here and there (and still does). Results won't be in for 7-10 days.
8/09/2004
I survived Vegas!
I survived the lastest Vegas trip and came home dead even money-wise as I didn't drop a single coin into any slot/poker machine! There was simply no time to shake off the kids for a bit of gambling for either DH or myself.
Drive up on Friday went very well thanks to a LeapPad for DS, CD Player/book for DD, a new baby afghan project for me and Sirius radio for DH. We listened to Elvis, classic Radio programs and a bit of jazz while speeding thru the Arizona desert. I did finish reading The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger on the way up and I will recommend it highly...I loved the book. It's already passed on to the first of three co-workers that will be reading it.
Upon arriving at the New Frontier, I spotted my first BB'er within minutes - KTCatt was in the casino. As I found out later, her BF had a *very* good Friday at the blackjack table and they celebrated at Paris with his winnings that evening ;)
As we headed to the elevator, I spotted Lisa (LisaNC) leaning over the railing in the "Atrium" tower (where we stayed as well). After dropping our bags, I hurried up to the appointed "Stitchers Lounge" to find a few folks hanging out. Stasha (and her gang), Margaret, Lisa, Mel, Sharon (faedragon - a new face! woohoo!) and Teresa were all chatting away. As it was already 5:00, I stole Teresa from the group and we headed off to dinner at Margaritaville (in the Flamingo) for Zachary's birthday dinner.
If you ever do get to Vegas and enjoy Jimmy Buffet's music or even just a tasty cheeseburger, I recommend Margaritaville. The interior was straight out of Key West marina and plenty of JB music and pictures on a huge video screen. And I must say, the cheeseburger (which DH, DD, DS and I all ordered....Teresa just *had* to be different LOL) was very yummy
After walking back to the hotel (stopping to see the Sirens of TI show at Treasure Island - it wasn't worth the wait and even DS wanted more pirates), DD and I spent a couple hours in the upstairs Lounge for some "Show & Tell" and chatting with folks. I had entrusted my Dragon Ride with Teresa as I was stumped for a color to backstitch the outer purple border (done in Needle Necessities' Coronation). It travelled to the "Shop Hop" on Saturday without me ;) She selected a Weeks Dye Works thread (Concord) and I did try a bit out last night. It's going to work quite well. So well, I may do the rest of the border backstitching in the same color
Saturday - while the stitchers took Julie Norton's class and then spent time at the LNS Stitchers' Paradise, the family and I headed off to Mandalay Bay. Breakfast was at the Red, White & Blue cafe (their eggs benedict was fabulous...and the kids' french toast was very good as well) and we wandered thru the hotel for a bit before ending up at Shark Reef - a beautiful aquarium. The kids loved the exhibits, as did DH and I. I just love looking at fish! The golden crocodile on display was amazing...I'd never seen one in that coloration.
We cooled off in the afternoon with a movie in the room (while I worked on Chatelaine Mini Mystery-F part 1b) and then to dinner with everyone downstairs. DD had "bonded" with Stasha's oldest and they happily shared a table off to the side and chatted about "all things teen." After dinner the stitchers were up to our Lounge for the Gift Bag Exchange (in which I embarrassed myself by totally forgetting that Mel was from Kansas! I *knew* that! I swear!). I was then sucked into various conversations and didn't get back to my room until after 10 to an impatient husband and a snoring son, so not like we could have done much, anyway!
Sunday morning after breakfast and prolonged good-byes with everyone, we headed home. I must say it was wonderful to see several folks again (Teresa, Stasha, Ann, Debi, Katie, Rita, Margaret, Laurel and MelLisa [what state will we meet in next? LOL] and others for the first time (Dagmar, Sharon, Dee, Sally, Allie, Penny and the various families). There's already mention of doing it again in 2006, a bit more to the north. Start saving now!
Before I publish...the Stitchers' Question of the Week:
What would your stitching confession be?
If I miss a stitch (especially in the confetti...ahem...heaven of a TW), I will substitute a similar color in the area rather than start/stop a thread for one stitch! If I miss a fractional stitch that is right next to a backstitched line....I may just leave it unstitched if the b/s will cover it!
Whew...they do say confession is good for the soul, right? LOL
Drive up on Friday went very well thanks to a LeapPad for DS, CD Player/book for DD, a new baby afghan project for me and Sirius radio for DH. We listened to Elvis, classic Radio programs and a bit of jazz while speeding thru the Arizona desert. I did finish reading The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger on the way up and I will recommend it highly...I loved the book. It's already passed on to the first of three co-workers that will be reading it.
Upon arriving at the New Frontier, I spotted my first BB'er within minutes - KTCatt was in the casino. As I found out later, her BF had a *very* good Friday at the blackjack table and they celebrated at Paris with his winnings that evening ;)
As we headed to the elevator, I spotted Lisa (LisaNC) leaning over the railing in the "Atrium" tower (where we stayed as well). After dropping our bags, I hurried up to the appointed "Stitchers Lounge" to find a few folks hanging out. Stasha (and her gang), Margaret, Lisa, Mel, Sharon (faedragon - a new face! woohoo!) and Teresa were all chatting away. As it was already 5:00, I stole Teresa from the group and we headed off to dinner at Margaritaville (in the Flamingo) for Zachary's birthday dinner.
If you ever do get to Vegas and enjoy Jimmy Buffet's music or even just a tasty cheeseburger, I recommend Margaritaville. The interior was straight out of Key West marina and plenty of JB music and pictures on a huge video screen. And I must say, the cheeseburger (which DH, DD, DS and I all ordered....Teresa just *had* to be different LOL) was very yummy
After walking back to the hotel (stopping to see the Sirens of TI show at Treasure Island - it wasn't worth the wait and even DS wanted more pirates), DD and I spent a couple hours in the upstairs Lounge for some "Show & Tell" and chatting with folks. I had entrusted my Dragon Ride with Teresa as I was stumped for a color to backstitch the outer purple border (done in Needle Necessities' Coronation). It travelled to the "Shop Hop" on Saturday without me ;) She selected a Weeks Dye Works thread (Concord) and I did try a bit out last night. It's going to work quite well. So well, I may do the rest of the border backstitching in the same color
Saturday - while the stitchers took Julie Norton's class and then spent time at the LNS Stitchers' Paradise, the family and I headed off to Mandalay Bay. Breakfast was at the Red, White & Blue cafe (their eggs benedict was fabulous...and the kids' french toast was very good as well) and we wandered thru the hotel for a bit before ending up at Shark Reef - a beautiful aquarium. The kids loved the exhibits, as did DH and I. I just love looking at fish! The golden crocodile on display was amazing...I'd never seen one in that coloration.
We cooled off in the afternoon with a movie in the room (while I worked on Chatelaine Mini Mystery-F part 1b) and then to dinner with everyone downstairs. DD had "bonded" with Stasha's oldest and they happily shared a table off to the side and chatted about "all things teen." After dinner the stitchers were up to our Lounge for the Gift Bag Exchange (in which I embarrassed myself by totally forgetting that Mel was from Kansas! I *knew* that! I swear!). I was then sucked into various conversations and didn't get back to my room until after 10 to an impatient husband and a snoring son, so not like we could have done much, anyway!
Sunday morning after breakfast and prolonged good-byes with everyone, we headed home. I must say it was wonderful to see several folks again (Teresa, Stasha, Ann, Debi, Katie, Rita, Margaret, Laurel and MelLisa [what state will we meet in next? LOL] and others for the first time (Dagmar, Sharon, Dee, Sally, Allie, Penny and the various families). There's already mention of doing it again in 2006, a bit more to the north. Start saving now!
Before I publish...the Stitchers' Question of the Week:
What would your stitching confession be?
If I miss a stitch (especially in the confetti...ahem...heaven of a TW), I will substitute a similar color in the area rather than start/stop a thread for one stitch! If I miss a fractional stitch that is right next to a backstitched line....I may just leave it unstitched if the b/s will cover it!
Whew...they do say confession is good for the soul, right? LOL
8/05/2004
..And We're Back
But only for today, I'm afraid! See, I'm off on a family vacation for the weekend, so today's post is all you're going to get until Monday, probably!
First, some old business - Stitchers' QOTW:
If you could only finish one of the pieces in your stash as it is at the moment, what would it be and why?
Holy cow, that's like asking me which child is my favorite! You can hardly expect me to choose just one!
Ok..well...I'll pick but each one gets a different reason.
Of my current works-in-progress - Stroke of Midnight because she's my oldest WIP and the first TW I started (though not the first I fell in love with...Fantasy Sampler gets that title)
Of my current kitted-but-not-started - Maria Van Scharrenberg's Egyptian Empire. It's simply amazing and going to look *fabulous* next to TW's Egyptian Sampler. Oh, but there's also Chatelaine's Alhambra Garden which draws me in everytime I look at the chart....I told you I couldn't pick one!
Of my bought-but-not-officially-kitted - Oh this is tough....Queen Besse's Chessboard (Leon Conrad) because I know my spouse will LOVE this if I ever manage to get it done! Or maybe Anagram's Four Season's Sampler - with its single-color motifs it has incredible potential done with a simple overdyed thread.
Of the heard-about-but-not-yet-released - TW's Olde Worlde Map, of course......
On to new business - New Rotation, Monthly Goals and upcoming vacation:
New Rotation
With Susan's (fumble99) assistance, we've managed to create a workable month-long rotation to help with my StRIP Goals and keep at least a few WIPs happy with monthly visits. I'll be spending time with 6 of my 30+ pieces and as a piece is finished, replacing it with another from the pile. I like this. I've had some success with monthly goals on the Rotation Board so incorporating a bit more structure at that level seemed an obvious solution to my "rudderless rotation."
First up, a few days on Dragon Ride - I've finished the shadowing under the wing and tail and completed most of the remaining b/s from the last pic. Also started on the "purple" feathers directly above the blue/gold wing spines seen in the pic. My vacation is throwing a small twist in the schedule (I should work on him thru Friday) but such is the way of life! I'll have an updated pic for him next week......here's the rest of the month's schedule:
Week 1 - Monday- Friday - TW Dragon Ride
Week 1 - Saturday - Chatelaine Mini-F
Week 1 - Sunday - Week 2 - Friday - Mira Christmas Elegance
Week 2 - Saturday - Sunday - RR/SL Edith Wolford
Week 3 - Monday - Saturday - TW Stroke of Midnight
Week 3 - Sunday - RR (or SL Edith if no RR)
Week 4 - Monday - Friday - TW Castles By the Sea (or if need more time on RR can float into this)
Week 4 - Saturday-Sunday (Screamer slot)
Monthly Goals
I realize I haven't been posting these anywhere but the Rotation Board....that officially changes right now. Here are August's Goals (as posted on 7/30 which is prior to the Rotation outlined above, thus why a couple are in direct conflict! But a full review will be done at the end of August) -
Finish WBRR and choose design for next one
Another week on Neptune/Poseidon
Start baby afghan #3
Work with Susan (fumble99) on my WIP List
Start model (If it arrives)
Vacation - aka Vegas, Baby!
Yes, we're back to Las Vegas this weekend for the much anticipated WorldWide TWBB Get-Together and some serious family time. My sweet baby boy (DS) is turning 6 on Friday! What other 6-yr-old gets to spend his birthday in Las Vegas, eh? His gift won't be travelling (he's been asking for "fish" for months - so we'll be setting up a small aquarium in the kids' bathroom next week as his birthday present) but we do have a small family dinner planned on Friday night in Vegas (yeah, small....4 of us plus 1 guest LOL).
Saturday we have tentative plans to visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay and then dinner with the TWBB gang that evening. So many people to meet! I'm really looking forward to chatting with you all :)
Won't be home until Sunday evening sometime and I promise an update on Monday. It's going to be a hot, but fun trip!
First, some old business - Stitchers' QOTW:
If you could only finish one of the pieces in your stash as it is at the moment, what would it be and why?
Holy cow, that's like asking me which child is my favorite! You can hardly expect me to choose just one!
Ok..well...I'll pick but each one gets a different reason.
Of my current works-in-progress - Stroke of Midnight because she's my oldest WIP and the first TW I started (though not the first I fell in love with...Fantasy Sampler gets that title)
Of my current kitted-but-not-started - Maria Van Scharrenberg's Egyptian Empire. It's simply amazing and going to look *fabulous* next to TW's Egyptian Sampler. Oh, but there's also Chatelaine's Alhambra Garden which draws me in everytime I look at the chart....I told you I couldn't pick one!
Of my bought-but-not-officially-kitted - Oh this is tough....Queen Besse's Chessboard (Leon Conrad) because I know my spouse will LOVE this if I ever manage to get it done! Or maybe Anagram's Four Season's Sampler - with its single-color motifs it has incredible potential done with a simple overdyed thread.
Of the heard-about-but-not-yet-released - TW's Olde Worlde Map, of course......
On to new business - New Rotation, Monthly Goals and upcoming vacation:
New Rotation
With Susan's (fumble99) assistance, we've managed to create a workable month-long rotation to help with my StRIP Goals and keep at least a few WIPs happy with monthly visits. I'll be spending time with 6 of my 30+ pieces and as a piece is finished, replacing it with another from the pile. I like this. I've had some success with monthly goals on the Rotation Board so incorporating a bit more structure at that level seemed an obvious solution to my "rudderless rotation."
First up, a few days on Dragon Ride - I've finished the shadowing under the wing and tail and completed most of the remaining b/s from the last pic. Also started on the "purple" feathers directly above the blue/gold wing spines seen in the pic. My vacation is throwing a small twist in the schedule (I should work on him thru Friday) but such is the way of life! I'll have an updated pic for him next week......here's the rest of the month's schedule:
Week 1 - Monday- Friday - TW Dragon Ride
Week 1 - Saturday - Chatelaine Mini-F
Week 1 - Sunday - Week 2 - Friday - Mira Christmas Elegance
Week 2 - Saturday - Sunday - RR/SL Edith Wolford
Week 3 - Monday - Saturday - TW Stroke of Midnight
Week 3 - Sunday - RR (or SL Edith if no RR)
Week 4 - Monday - Friday - TW Castles By the Sea (or if need more time on RR can float into this)
Week 4 - Saturday-Sunday (Screamer slot)
Monthly Goals
I realize I haven't been posting these anywhere but the Rotation Board....that officially changes right now. Here are August's Goals (as posted on 7/30 which is prior to the Rotation outlined above, thus why a couple are in direct conflict! But a full review will be done at the end of August) -
Finish WBRR and choose design for next one
Another week on Neptune/Poseidon
Start baby afghan #3
Work with Susan (fumble99) on my WIP List
Start model (If it arrives)
Vacation - aka Vegas, Baby!
Yes, we're back to Las Vegas this weekend for the much anticipated WorldWide TWBB Get-Together and some serious family time. My sweet baby boy (DS) is turning 6 on Friday! What other 6-yr-old gets to spend his birthday in Las Vegas, eh? His gift won't be travelling (he's been asking for "fish" for months - so we'll be setting up a small aquarium in the kids' bathroom next week as his birthday present) but we do have a small family dinner planned on Friday night in Vegas (yeah, small....4 of us plus 1 guest LOL).
Saturday we have tentative plans to visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay and then dinner with the TWBB gang that evening. So many people to meet! I'm really looking forward to chatting with you all :)
Won't be home until Sunday evening sometime and I promise an update on Monday. It's going to be a hot, but fun trip!
8/03/2004
In Search of David Tippin - SUCCESS!
David was found this morning in an abandoned home not far away! He's a bit dehydrated, but otherwise just fine.....
Thank you for all your thoughts...prayers...whatever!
Missing 4-yr old found asleep
edit: 8:12 AM Arizona time
Perle Moon- Stacey's blog including links to news reports and a photograph of David.
Stacey (aka Prinncess) is a dear friend and my heart aches right now for her and her family. Please offer up prayers....good thoughts...faith...whatever you are comfortable with for David's safe return.
Stacey is a bright star in the Internet universe and her love and devotion to her family are unmatched.....
Thank you for all your thoughts...prayers...whatever!
Missing 4-yr old found asleep
edit: 8:12 AM Arizona time
Perle Moon- Stacey's blog including links to news reports and a photograph of David.
Stacey (aka Prinncess) is a dear friend and my heart aches right now for her and her family. Please offer up prayers....good thoughts...faith...whatever you are comfortable with for David's safe return.
Stacey is a bright star in the Internet universe and her love and devotion to her family are unmatched.....
7/30/2004
And now...the Friday Five
(And it appears my ezboard access is straightened out....I'll make those changes directly, Jen!)
1) Of everything in your wardrobe what do you feel the most comfortable wearing? Why?
Big roomy t-shirts! I have 3 that seem to be washed at least twice/week: a white West Coast Chopper shirt signed by Jesse James, a Peninsula Harley-Davidson shirt with a cool dragon on the front (bought in Santa Clara at 2003 CATS), and a nightshirt covered in a print of lingerie items.
2) How would you describe your style?
Casual. Very Casual.
3) How many pairs of shoes do you own and do you wear them all?
I own 6 pairs of shoes (I know, a disgrace to my mother, the shoe-collector with 80+ pairs) and yes, I wear them all over the course of a month ;)
4) Where do you buy most of your clothes?
JCPenney or Mervyn's for things like jeans and casual shirts/polos.
5) What was the last piece of clothing you bought?
Hmm......that would be 3 cotton shirts with "tropical" themes and bright colors. Perfect for summer wear in the office.
1) Of everything in your wardrobe what do you feel the most comfortable wearing? Why?
Big roomy t-shirts! I have 3 that seem to be washed at least twice/week: a white West Coast Chopper shirt signed by Jesse James, a Peninsula Harley-Davidson shirt with a cool dragon on the front (bought in Santa Clara at 2003 CATS), and a nightshirt covered in a print of lingerie items.
2) How would you describe your style?
Casual. Very Casual.
3) How many pairs of shoes do you own and do you wear them all?
I own 6 pairs of shoes (I know, a disgrace to my mother, the shoe-collector with 80+ pairs) and yes, I wear them all over the course of a month ;)
4) Where do you buy most of your clothes?
JCPenney or Mervyn's for things like jeans and casual shirts/polos.
5) What was the last piece of clothing you bought?
Hmm......that would be 3 cotton shirts with "tropical" themes and bright colors. Perfect for summer wear in the office.
Working off The List*
I've scratched a couple things off my "do" list this week...
Item #1 - Followup on job interview
Finally heard back yesterday that I was not selected for the supervisor position I interviewed for. The odd thing though was that neither were the other two candidates. "We've decided to take this position in a new direction" was the official communication from Staffing. And I am not considered flexible? I don't get a chance at that "new" direction? Ah well, short-sighted on their part, but all in all probably a good thing. Longer drive, more stress for no more money? Sheesh! What was I thinking?
Item #2 - Get new Digital Camera
My brand spanking new Sony DSCW-1 arrived in the big brown truck yesterday and I must say I made an *excellent* selection. The 2.5" LCD screen is awesome and the whole camera can easily be tucked in almost any size purse, if not a roomy pocket. Batteries charged last night and I did manage a quick test pic of the dog before bed ("Smile Carmella!"). It even *sounds* more like a camera with a shutter "shush" when a picture is snapped rather than a tinny beep! I'll catch up on some Finish pics this weekend and evaluate the ease of getting them off the camera and on the web. I have some hope here...the reviews I read said I didn't need special software and that XP recognizes the camera simply as another drive...big thumbs up for Sony!
Item #3 - Open Ezboard Help Ticket
As of this morning I cannot view the TWBB or the Rotation BB (coincidental, but I really don't think the Russian spammers are taking revenge). I can view/post to the new JPC, but no admin functions are available. My other hangouts (Chatelaine and Mirabilia) are also MIA for me.
Thankfully, though, according to posts on JPC, I'm not alone in my troubles. Isn't that the way of technology? Fix one thing (custom title bug) and blow up something *much* bigger? LOL
Item #4 - The Friday Five
Can't mark this one yet for this week....they are woefully behind!
*truthfully, there is no physical list. These are just things in my head that I need to do in a semi-timely manner before I have the dramatic realization "Oh, Sh*t! I forgot to...." Ok, maybe a physical list wouldn't be such a bad idea after all.....
Item #1 - Followup on job interview
Finally heard back yesterday that I was not selected for the supervisor position I interviewed for. The odd thing though was that neither were the other two candidates. "We've decided to take this position in a new direction" was the official communication from Staffing. And I am not considered flexible? I don't get a chance at that "new" direction? Ah well, short-sighted on their part, but all in all probably a good thing. Longer drive, more stress for no more money? Sheesh! What was I thinking?
Item #2 - Get new Digital Camera
My brand spanking new Sony DSCW-1 arrived in the big brown truck yesterday and I must say I made an *excellent* selection. The 2.5" LCD screen is awesome and the whole camera can easily be tucked in almost any size purse, if not a roomy pocket. Batteries charged last night and I did manage a quick test pic of the dog before bed ("Smile Carmella!"). It even *sounds* more like a camera with a shutter "shush" when a picture is snapped rather than a tinny beep! I'll catch up on some Finish pics this weekend and evaluate the ease of getting them off the camera and on the web. I have some hope here...the reviews I read said I didn't need special software and that XP recognizes the camera simply as another drive...big thumbs up for Sony!
Item #3 - Open Ezboard Help Ticket
As of this morning I cannot view the TWBB or the Rotation BB (coincidental, but I really don't think the Russian spammers are taking revenge). I can view/post to the new JPC, but no admin functions are available. My other hangouts (Chatelaine and Mirabilia) are also MIA for me.
Thankfully, though, according to posts on JPC, I'm not alone in my troubles. Isn't that the way of technology? Fix one thing (custom title bug) and blow up something *much* bigger? LOL
Item #4 - The Friday Five
Can't mark this one yet for this week....they are woefully behind!
*truthfully, there is no physical list. These are just things in my head that I need to do in a semi-timely manner before I have the dramatic realization "Oh, Sh*t! I forgot to...." Ok, maybe a physical list wouldn't be such a bad idea after all.....
7/28/2004
I hate spam....
"Spam, spam, spam, ....." with apologies to Monty Python
I hate spam...the meat product, the unsolicited emails and the random postings on my bulletin boards!
Ok, so only one of the boards is actually *mine* but I'm responsible for a few more....
The TWBB and the Rotation Board both got hit with spammers today. Usually I just delete, give about two seconds to wondering if these people don't have some semblance of a life and move on. However, as this seems to be a concerted attack across multiple boards this week, I've elected to report it to ezboard.
One would think, that if one was going to post such....crap....on a wide variety of boards, one might try to either make the subjects catchier than "make her happy" or "anoun" and include in the body of the post something a bit more descriptive than a link. After all, the goal is to draw unsuspecting folks in, right? I could *easily* be more creative than these folks. Why don't they borrow from their email-spam buddies for some more interesting posts? In today's mailbox there was plenty of inspiration:
"Free prescription drugs!"
"Hot mamas and their young men!"
"UPS Shipped Drugs! No Prescription!"
Ok...might still not hide their intent especially on a stitching board. How about this?
"Free floss!"
"Hot charts and fabrics!"
"More stitching time! Guaranteed!"
For those, I *just* might click thru!
I hate spam...the meat product, the unsolicited emails and the random postings on my bulletin boards!
Ok, so only one of the boards is actually *mine* but I'm responsible for a few more....
The TWBB and the Rotation Board both got hit with spammers today. Usually I just delete, give about two seconds to wondering if these people don't have some semblance of a life and move on. However, as this seems to be a concerted attack across multiple boards this week, I've elected to report it to ezboard.
One would think, that if one was going to post such....crap....on a wide variety of boards, one might try to either make the subjects catchier than "make her happy" or "anoun" and include in the body of the post something a bit more descriptive than a link. After all, the goal is to draw unsuspecting folks in, right? I could *easily* be more creative than these folks. Why don't they borrow from their email-spam buddies for some more interesting posts? In today's mailbox there was plenty of inspiration:
"Free prescription drugs!"
"Hot mamas and their young men!"
"UPS Shipped Drugs! No Prescription!"
Ok...might still not hide their intent especially on a stitching board. How about this?
"Free floss!"
"Hot charts and fabrics!"
"More stitching time! Guaranteed!"
For those, I *just* might click thru!
7/23/2004
Musical Friday Five....
I just love the The Friday Five!
Friday Five: 7/23/04
1) who was your favorite band/musician when you were younger?
This could cover *ahem* a few decades. The first record albums I recall owning were from the Osmonds and The Partridge Family (I told you we were going waaay back). However, in high school REO Speedwagon and Journey definitely held the top spot.
2) why?
I suppose for the Osmonds and Partridge Family - eye candy was a big factor. Didn't hurt that they sounded ok and all my friends were just as taken with them as I was!
The REO/Journey years were more musical favorites. I love a good ballad but also enjoy fun music that I can sing along too. With these guys you can understand the lyrics!
Ok, maybe a little eye candy. I did say for a long time that if Steve Perry showed up on my door step I was absolutely going with him....LOL.
3) are they still your favorite/one of your favorites?
Yes. REO's "Ballads" and Journey's "Greatest Hits Live" are both resident on my Sony Mini-Disc player main disc
4) what is your favorite of their songs?
REO - "In My Dreams"
Journey - "Don't Stop Believin'"
5) are there any specific lyrics you hold dear?
REO - In My Dreams chorus:
Friday Five: 7/23/04
1) who was your favorite band/musician when you were younger?
This could cover *ahem* a few decades. The first record albums I recall owning were from the Osmonds and The Partridge Family (I told you we were going waaay back). However, in high school REO Speedwagon and Journey definitely held the top spot.
2) why?
I suppose for the Osmonds and Partridge Family - eye candy was a big factor. Didn't hurt that they sounded ok and all my friends were just as taken with them as I was!
The REO/Journey years were more musical favorites. I love a good ballad but also enjoy fun music that I can sing along too. With these guys you can understand the lyrics!
Ok, maybe a little eye candy. I did say for a long time that if Steve Perry showed up on my door step I was absolutely going with him....LOL.
3) are they still your favorite/one of your favorites?
Yes. REO's "Ballads" and Journey's "Greatest Hits Live" are both resident on my Sony Mini-Disc player main disc
4) what is your favorite of their songs?
REO - "In My Dreams"
Journey - "Don't Stop Believin'"
5) are there any specific lyrics you hold dear?
REO - In My Dreams chorus:
and we climb and climb
**No news on the job yet, I'll let you know as soon as I do!
and at the top we fly
and when the world go on below us we are lost in time
and i don't know really what it means
all i know is that you love me
in my dreams
**No news on the job yet, I'll let you know as soon as I do!
7/21/2004
Wednesday already?
As I took a few minutes this afternoon to do my daily "blog" cruise I noticed that I wasn't seeing a "new entry" indicator for my own blog on others' sites.
That's when I realized I hadn't *made* an entry for a couple days
It's been a busy few days. As usual when my mother decides to go out of town (she's enjoying San Francisco with her husband), all kinds of hubbub goes on in my personal life. And I'm not talking about anything online related...this is *always* work/health/kid stuff.
I'll never forget when I was pregnant with DS - Mom went out of town about a month before my due date and *forbid* me to go anywhere near a hospital while she was gone. Unfortunately I had to break that one....not for me but for my DH that collapsed from heat exhaustion (it was July. 115+). After some fluids, he was fine and free to go.....
We have a double dose of trouble this vacation. First, a job interview on Monday for a potential promotion at work. I admit, I did submit my resume for the job *last* week but truthfully didn't think I had much of a shot. Turns out I'm one of only three people interviewed with significantly more having submitted for the post. We'll see....keep your fingers crossed for me!
Today we got the "health" twist. I've had a series of doctor appointments this year for "female" issues. Last week this included the second "pelvic ultrasound" to check out the...ummm...parts. I was hoping for a clean bill of health but no, not to be. Not only do I have to endure a third ultrasound six weeks from now, but they also found something else that requires more significant testing....as in biopsy.
Mom...you can come home now. I'm done.
That's when I realized I hadn't *made* an entry for a couple days
It's been a busy few days. As usual when my mother decides to go out of town (she's enjoying San Francisco with her husband), all kinds of hubbub goes on in my personal life. And I'm not talking about anything online related...this is *always* work/health/kid stuff.
I'll never forget when I was pregnant with DS - Mom went out of town about a month before my due date and *forbid* me to go anywhere near a hospital while she was gone. Unfortunately I had to break that one....not for me but for my DH that collapsed from heat exhaustion (it was July. 115+). After some fluids, he was fine and free to go.....
We have a double dose of trouble this vacation. First, a job interview on Monday for a potential promotion at work. I admit, I did submit my resume for the job *last* week but truthfully didn't think I had much of a shot. Turns out I'm one of only three people interviewed with significantly more having submitted for the post. We'll see....keep your fingers crossed for me!
Today we got the "health" twist. I've had a series of doctor appointments this year for "female" issues. Last week this included the second "pelvic ultrasound" to check out the...ummm...parts. I was hoping for a clean bill of health but no, not to be. Not only do I have to endure a third ultrasound six weeks from now, but they also found something else that requires more significant testing....as in biopsy.
Mom...you can come home now. I'm done.
7/19/2004
A StRIP Club Report and the Question of the Week
The question is shorter, so let's start with that.
Would you consider yourself *addicted to stitching*? Why or why not?
No, I don't consider myself addicted to stitching. It *is* one of the few activities that when indulged in regularly help me maintain a calm and even-tempered demeaner, but it certainly isn't the only one. Reading and puttering in the kitchen have the same results though I can't hang anything on the wall as a reminder ;)
StRIP Club Report
Earlier this year on the Rotation Board we started a StRIP Club - "Stash Reduction Implementation Plan" with one of the goals being fewer WIPs on January 1, 2005 than you had on January 1, 2004. (This from Heather aka hankj99, the club founder)
Wayyyy back in April (seems so long ago) I made a comprehensive WIP list. Scroll down to the April 22 entry . I had identified a few items that were "fast finish" candidates - here's the update:
Would you consider yourself *addicted to stitching*? Why or why not?
No, I don't consider myself addicted to stitching. It *is* one of the few activities that when indulged in regularly help me maintain a calm and even-tempered demeaner, but it certainly isn't the only one. Reading and puttering in the kitchen have the same results though I can't hang anything on the wall as a reminder ;)
StRIP Club Report
Earlier this year on the Rotation Board we started a StRIP Club - "Stash Reduction Implementation Plan" with one of the goals being fewer WIPs on January 1, 2005 than you had on January 1, 2004. (This from Heather aka hankj99, the club founder)
Wayyyy back in April (seems so long ago) I made a comprehensive WIP list. Scroll down to the April 22 entry . I had identified a few items that were "fast finish" candidates - here's the update:
- JustNan's Witch Way - finished this weekend
- March VS Needleroll - finished
- Snowman Bag - still needs 10 hours
- Textile Heritage Bookmark - finished and bookmarkified!
- Apple Cloisonne Ornament - haven't even looked at it
- Chatelaine Mini Mandala #3 - finished and at the framers!
- TW's Castles by the Sea - a few more hours done
- Chatelaine Mini Mystery E - finished, but not on the hanger yet
Since then I've also started & finished 2 versions of Lizzie*Kate's Bless the Baby, Enchanting Lair's "Two Hearts Unite" and one ornament (from the Ornament RR).
Nine finishes in 3 months...I'll take it.
Based on the original lists, this would put me at 32 projects, including the 2 Round Robins. In actuality, though, it's more like 36 as I've had 4 new starts since [hangs head in shame]
And I still am waiting on a model to arrive...it's due by the end of the month to me and by October 1 back to the designer. Until I get that in hand and can get an idea of the time commitment, I'm hesitant to do more than keep up with my round robins (started the current ornament last night and will do the Beastie next weekend) and chip away at some of my larger projects.
So...overall, I'm happy with my StRIP progress but I know I need to get more done before the end of the year!
7/16/2004
Friday Five for July 16, 2004
Great subject today!
1. What color ink pen do you like best?
Black! A super fine black pen is the very best for me everyday! I also love a nice fountain pen (have two) for letter writing.
But I do love color-coordinated notes in my schedule book. Black for work, Purple for personal, etc...and don't even ask how many highlighters I have in different colors.
2. Do you prefer plain paper or paper with lines (notebook paper)?
With lines (my writing tends to go uphill without them), but a legal pad rather than notebook paper.
3. What's better: books from the library, or reading online?
Nothing like the weight of a good book in your hands...regardless of the source.
4. Which would you rather get, e-mail or snail mail?
Hmmm...good question. I love chatty emails and the "instant" communication they offer. But taking the time for a "real" letter or better yet, adding something extra into the envelope can't be beat!
5. Do you have a paper weight on your desk?
Nothing specific for that purpose...it's usually whatever I've been working on :)
1. What color ink pen do you like best?
Black! A super fine black pen is the very best for me everyday! I also love a nice fountain pen (have two) for letter writing.
But I do love color-coordinated notes in my schedule book. Black for work, Purple for personal, etc...and don't even ask how many highlighters I have in different colors.
2. Do you prefer plain paper or paper with lines (notebook paper)?
With lines (my writing tends to go uphill without them), but a legal pad rather than notebook paper.
3. What's better: books from the library, or reading online?
Nothing like the weight of a good book in your hands...regardless of the source.
4. Which would you rather get, e-mail or snail mail?
Hmmm...good question. I love chatty emails and the "instant" communication they offer. But taking the time for a "real" letter or better yet, adding something extra into the envelope can't be beat!
5. Do you have a paper weight on your desk?
Nothing specific for that purpose...it's usually whatever I've been working on :)
7/14/2004
Terry's Love Slave
Get your mind outta da gutter...there's a stitching-related story here.
I realized tonight that I hadn't really posted this story anywhere and it's certainly a good one! So in light of all the recent hubbub in my life, I'm returning to a few months ago and this *very* funny episode.
Last September, I traveled to Hershey, Pennsylvania for the first time. The destination? The CATS Stitching Festival held annually in Hershey. One of my resolutions for 2003 was to meet Teresa Wentzler, and that show was the best place to do it.
But she's not part of this story...
My buddy, Erin, and I made plans to meet up in Hershey and have a grand time visiting and shopping with other members of the TWBB and some of the regular folks we see at these events. You know, people like Laura from Enchanting Lair, Letha from Fantasy Crafts, Carmen from Columbine Designs, Sandra from Needle & Frame and Terry Nolan of Dimples Designs (I know I'm missing some...forgive me). After attending *multiple* CATS shows, these folks never seem to be surprised when I show up in their booth! And they *all* are happy when I'm in a shopping mood...
So we enjoy the show and on the final day, we plan to go to dinner with my parents (yes, Mom was there as usual and her husband made the trip) and another BB'er, Heather, before dropping Heather at the Harrisburg Airport for her journey home.
Now, after the show, there's always a lot of work to help break down the booths. Terry was sharing a booth with Maureen Appleton and let me tell you, there were a *lot* of beautiful models in that booth. Erin and I offered to help break down and pack Terry's stuff, and of course, Maureen's as well. To get back in after the show, the booth owners have to leave the helpers' names at the registration desk. Since we weren't going to be back until about an hour or so after close, it was rather important that Terry do this so we could get back in.
About the time the shopping area closed, Erin and I are waiting in the lobby of the Lodge with Heather for my parents so we can head off to dinner. A couple other BB'ers are there with us and we're chatting...showing off purchases...etc when here comes Letha from the shopping mall on her way to her room to change before tear down.
She sees Erin and I. She stops and breaks into a wide grin.
Seems that when Mr. Nolan left our names at the registration desk for readmittance, Letha was there. She asked him how he was so special to get our help (in jest...Letha had plenty of helpers) and his response:
"They're my love slaves."
Now, for those of you that may not know Terry, Erin and I are not his...ummm..."type." It isn't that we're both married...or on the "fluffy" side (me way more than Erin!) it's that we're FEMALE. Given this, you can just imagine, Letha's absolute *glee* to share our new title with us. It made for howls of laughter and curious glances from passing guests!
Of course, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to get back at Terry. When we did come back after our dinner/airport run, we walked in to the mart area (without so much as a glance from anyone..so much for leaving names!) and headed to the area of Terry and Maureen's booth.
"Love Slaves reporting for duty"
I've never seen a man's face go pale and then red so quickly! He RAN to the general area of Letha's booth and you could hear the laughs echoing thru the entire area. It was absolutely priceless!
He still owes me for that one....and I'll be stitching up a "TN Love Slave" badge prior to Hershey this year. He didn't make the Santa Clara show, but I'll be ready for him in Hershey in October ;)
I realized tonight that I hadn't really posted this story anywhere and it's certainly a good one! So in light of all the recent hubbub in my life, I'm returning to a few months ago and this *very* funny episode.
Last September, I traveled to Hershey, Pennsylvania for the first time. The destination? The CATS Stitching Festival held annually in Hershey. One of my resolutions for 2003 was to meet Teresa Wentzler, and that show was the best place to do it.
But she's not part of this story...
My buddy, Erin, and I made plans to meet up in Hershey and have a grand time visiting and shopping with other members of the TWBB and some of the regular folks we see at these events. You know, people like Laura from Enchanting Lair, Letha from Fantasy Crafts, Carmen from Columbine Designs, Sandra from Needle & Frame and Terry Nolan of Dimples Designs (I know I'm missing some...forgive me). After attending *multiple* CATS shows, these folks never seem to be surprised when I show up in their booth! And they *all* are happy when I'm in a shopping mood...
So we enjoy the show and on the final day, we plan to go to dinner with my parents (yes, Mom was there as usual and her husband made the trip) and another BB'er, Heather, before dropping Heather at the Harrisburg Airport for her journey home.
Now, after the show, there's always a lot of work to help break down the booths. Terry was sharing a booth with Maureen Appleton and let me tell you, there were a *lot* of beautiful models in that booth. Erin and I offered to help break down and pack Terry's stuff, and of course, Maureen's as well. To get back in after the show, the booth owners have to leave the helpers' names at the registration desk. Since we weren't going to be back until about an hour or so after close, it was rather important that Terry do this so we could get back in.
About the time the shopping area closed, Erin and I are waiting in the lobby of the Lodge with Heather for my parents so we can head off to dinner. A couple other BB'ers are there with us and we're chatting...showing off purchases...etc when here comes Letha from the shopping mall on her way to her room to change before tear down.
She sees Erin and I. She stops and breaks into a wide grin.
Seems that when Mr. Nolan left our names at the registration desk for readmittance, Letha was there. She asked him how he was so special to get our help (in jest...Letha had plenty of helpers) and his response:
"They're my love slaves."
Now, for those of you that may not know Terry, Erin and I are not his...ummm..."type." It isn't that we're both married...or on the "fluffy" side (me way more than Erin!) it's that we're FEMALE. Given this, you can just imagine, Letha's absolute *glee* to share our new title with us. It made for howls of laughter and curious glances from passing guests!
Of course, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to get back at Terry. When we did come back after our dinner/airport run, we walked in to the mart area (without so much as a glance from anyone..so much for leaving names!) and headed to the area of Terry and Maureen's booth.
"Love Slaves reporting for duty"
I've never seen a man's face go pale and then red so quickly! He RAN to the general area of Letha's booth and you could hear the laughs echoing thru the entire area. It was absolutely priceless!
He still owes me for that one....and I'll be stitching up a "TN Love Slave" badge prior to Hershey this year. He didn't make the Santa Clara show, but I'll be ready for him in Hershey in October ;)
Stitchers Question of the Week
*Blogger and I are having "issues" today...I hope this finally goes thru!*
Yeah, I'm behind...sue me! It's been a week already and it's only half-way thru! LOL
How do you choose a project? What “calls” to you the most?
Good question....I suppose it's a combination of factors: Style, color, composition are huge factors. In order to actually get a project *started* rather than living comfortably in my stash it takes all those things plus any "connections" to the project. The stronger the connections the more I'm likely to work on the project....
This is the reason that "gifts" get special status in my rotation. Not all get started immediately...but I definitely feel the urge! I'll review my project list...see where I'm at with my "whittling" down goal this year (not doing too bad, I must say) and my "make progress on large WIPs" goal (ok, I admit...I'm failing miserably here).
So, "calling" is only half the battle...getting it "started" is a whole new skirmish!
Yeah, I'm behind...sue me! It's been a week already and it's only half-way thru! LOL
How do you choose a project? What “calls” to you the most?
Good question....I suppose it's a combination of factors: Style, color, composition are huge factors. In order to actually get a project *started* rather than living comfortably in my stash it takes all those things plus any "connections" to the project. The stronger the connections the more I'm likely to work on the project....
This is the reason that "gifts" get special status in my rotation. Not all get started immediately...but I definitely feel the urge! I'll review my project list...see where I'm at with my "whittling" down goal this year (not doing too bad, I must say) and my "make progress on large WIPs" goal (ok, I admit...I'm failing miserably here).
So, "calling" is only half the battle...getting it "started" is a whole new skirmish!
7/12/2004
And A New Chapter Begins....
I knew it was coming.
I told DH on Sunday that after the flurry of email over the weekend, I fully expected Teresa to either remove JPC or simply shut down the board all-together.
I'm glad it was something in between....I have put my heart and soul into the TWBB for the last 10 months I've been a co-administrator. I've been a member for almost 4 years and I knew from the start I'd found an online "home" to discuss my hobby and find friends that shared my love of Teresa's designs and stitching in general.
I'm proud to say Teresa has become a dear friend and her name and reputation are easily my first priority on the board. Keeping it running smoothly and a credit to her and her company in some ways has been far easier than expected, and in other ways more difficult.
Easier as many, many members share that vision and want only to keep her mind *off* the board and on her designing! More difficult as many don't realize how personal she takes things....especially any negative or controversial discussions.
So as of August 1st, my job as co-admin will be a tad easier. Still no walk in the park trying to keep thousands of members somewhat "content" with guidelines, content, and overall "mood" of the board. But I somehow doubt we'll be debating the merits of cotton and silk floss with the same fervor as presidential candidates ;)
The board is what the members make it. I have no doubt the BB will continue in its new form for years, continuing to grow and attract new members. I'm hoping some of the "lurkers" will feel more comfortable to post about their stitching joys, despairs and questions. I see you up in that "Who's Online" box! Please come down and join in the conversation...you really do have something interesting to add to the community. After all, everyone was at Post #1 at one point :)
So here's to the new chapter getting ready to open on August 1. Oh and if you want to chatter about other topics...visit the new board created today just for that purpose...Just Plain Chat. I'll see you there....
I told DH on Sunday that after the flurry of email over the weekend, I fully expected Teresa to either remove JPC or simply shut down the board all-together.
I'm glad it was something in between....I have put my heart and soul into the TWBB for the last 10 months I've been a co-administrator. I've been a member for almost 4 years and I knew from the start I'd found an online "home" to discuss my hobby and find friends that shared my love of Teresa's designs and stitching in general.
I'm proud to say Teresa has become a dear friend and her name and reputation are easily my first priority on the board. Keeping it running smoothly and a credit to her and her company in some ways has been far easier than expected, and in other ways more difficult.
Easier as many, many members share that vision and want only to keep her mind *off* the board and on her designing! More difficult as many don't realize how personal she takes things....especially any negative or controversial discussions.
So as of August 1st, my job as co-admin will be a tad easier. Still no walk in the park trying to keep thousands of members somewhat "content" with guidelines, content, and overall "mood" of the board. But I somehow doubt we'll be debating the merits of cotton and silk floss with the same fervor as presidential candidates ;)
The board is what the members make it. I have no doubt the BB will continue in its new form for years, continuing to grow and attract new members. I'm hoping some of the "lurkers" will feel more comfortable to post about their stitching joys, despairs and questions. I see you up in that "Who's Online" box! Please come down and join in the conversation...you really do have something interesting to add to the community. After all, everyone was at Post #1 at one point :)
So here's to the new chapter getting ready to open on August 1. Oh and if you want to chatter about other topics...visit the new board created today just for that purpose...Just Plain Chat. I'll see you there....
7/08/2004
An Online Equation
One of my husband's favorite sayings recently:
nice person + anonymity + audience = idiot
Ok, I admit, his "result" is a bit stronger than mine, but I have a hard time cussing in real life, so why should typing be any different? I think you know what I mean!
I seem to be running into this a lot lately. Not all of it is in public....much is going on "behind the scenes" so to speak on the TWBB. Which, one would think, would take the "anonymity" portion out of the equation, but I suppose email is just as anonymous as posting online.
All in all, we have done fairly well lately on the "controversial" discussions. If you want to see some knock-down-drag-out fights, head over to the technical board my husband frequents (and the source of the above equation). You think politics and religion get heated? It's *nothing* compared to a bunch of geeks arguing technology!
Still, though, there are always going to be folks that feel *so* strongly and are *so* dedicated to their convictions that these discussions will eventually sink beyond a reasonably mature exchange. Opinions are just like that....and everyone has their own to express.
Additionally, the online stitching community is really not that big. If you take a stand somewhere, it's fairly likely it'll make it around somewhere else. *Especially* if it's overtly negative and directed at an individual. That person *will* find out. And I can pretty much guarantee it won't be pretty when they do. And the ripples from that single post...well...they will spread wide and catch up many others...
As a final note, before you start inserting names into that equation...I'll say right now, I don't think it applies to me, for the most part.
Yes, I consider myself a "nice person." I do have "human" days, and there's an email or two floating out there that I'm not proud of, but for the most part, yes, I'm a nice person...(if you disagree I'd love to know why!)
The "anonymity" factor is missing. I use the same name/handle/id wherever I go. If it's Annette414, most likely it's me. Hard to maintain a facade of anonymity that way....
As for the "audience" - there are definitely days I doubt this blog is being read, let alone *any* post on *any* BB I frequent!
So if you put me in the equation, I personally don't think it balances out ;) For right now at least....
nice person + anonymity + audience = idiot
Ok, I admit, his "result" is a bit stronger than mine, but I have a hard time cussing in real life, so why should typing be any different? I think you know what I mean!
I seem to be running into this a lot lately. Not all of it is in public....much is going on "behind the scenes" so to speak on the TWBB. Which, one would think, would take the "anonymity" portion out of the equation, but I suppose email is just as anonymous as posting online.
All in all, we have done fairly well lately on the "controversial" discussions. If you want to see some knock-down-drag-out fights, head over to the technical board my husband frequents (and the source of the above equation). You think politics and religion get heated? It's *nothing* compared to a bunch of geeks arguing technology!
Still, though, there are always going to be folks that feel *so* strongly and are *so* dedicated to their convictions that these discussions will eventually sink beyond a reasonably mature exchange. Opinions are just like that....and everyone has their own to express.
Additionally, the online stitching community is really not that big. If you take a stand somewhere, it's fairly likely it'll make it around somewhere else. *Especially* if it's overtly negative and directed at an individual. That person *will* find out. And I can pretty much guarantee it won't be pretty when they do. And the ripples from that single post...well...they will spread wide and catch up many others...
As a final note, before you start inserting names into that equation...I'll say right now, I don't think it applies to me, for the most part.
Yes, I consider myself a "nice person." I do have "human" days, and there's an email or two floating out there that I'm not proud of, but for the most part, yes, I'm a nice person...(if you disagree I'd love to know why!)
The "anonymity" factor is missing. I use the same name/handle/id wherever I go. If it's Annette414, most likely it's me. Hard to maintain a facade of anonymity that way....
As for the "audience" - there are definitely days I doubt this blog is being read, let alone *any* post on *any* BB I frequent!
So if you put me in the equation, I personally don't think it balances out ;) For right now at least....
7/06/2004
Does your stitching talk to you?
I seem to recall a couple years ago (ok, more like three...) I posted on the TWBB that I was a "Rotation Failure." I had crafted what I thought was a well-thought-out attempt to keep all my current projects happy and moving forward.
At the time that was 12 projects. (I *wish* I was still at that number!)
I failed miserably. When it was time to switch to a new project, the one I was working on whispered at me to just do one more color...one more section...and all the others that weren't due up next tried to entice me to pick *them* rather than the one on the list.
During the course of the thread I learned that not only was it completely normal for my projects to talk to *me*, others had the same experience! Thus the term "screaming rotation" was born - work on whatever yells loudest.
Of course, this practice allowed me to work on those projects as well as hear as-yet-unstarted projects whimper from the stash pile. The project pile grew...and grew.
Now, I did finish a few things. Legends of the Dragons, Tea Scene, Winter Queen and a couple other projects were on that list...and they proudly hang in my home, smug in their completed glory. But Stroke of Midnight is still languishing in the WIP pile....she's a lady and just doesn't whine as loud as some others ;)
Currently I am totally captivated with Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid. I knew she was going to be a demanding wench, so not only did I put off starting her for a month after receiving the kit as a gift, I started at the very end of her tail....no face, no mouth, less whispering. Or so I thought. I gave in during my Vegas trip and stitched a few leaves (center start) in the hotel. After I got home, though, and put those first few stitches in her tail, well, she's been on me to do more, more, more ever since!
I still have some measure of sanity, though. I showed her that *I* am in control of my stitching time and put her aside on Saturday night to work on the first part of Mini Mystery-F (Chatelaine). But once I put the final beads in on Sunday morning, I was back to green and filling in more of her tail fin that afternoon
She's looking wonderful on the DaVinci Picture this Plus linen - the green is striking against the purple of the fabric. So not only do I hear a demanding voice - it's got a touch of arrogance given that she knows she's coming out beautifully. Heck, she's even claimed a wall in the house already....one that, not surprisingly, is wide enough for *one* design to hang. No sharing of space for this mermaid!
We'll see how she does when I have to put her down in a few days to stitch on an RR.....as for tonight (with the start of a new season of The Amazing Race) I'll be stitching a few more leaves, I think...
At the time that was 12 projects. (I *wish* I was still at that number!)
I failed miserably. When it was time to switch to a new project, the one I was working on whispered at me to just do one more color...one more section...and all the others that weren't due up next tried to entice me to pick *them* rather than the one on the list.
During the course of the thread I learned that not only was it completely normal for my projects to talk to *me*, others had the same experience! Thus the term "screaming rotation" was born - work on whatever yells loudest.
Of course, this practice allowed me to work on those projects as well as hear as-yet-unstarted projects whimper from the stash pile. The project pile grew...and grew.
Now, I did finish a few things. Legends of the Dragons, Tea Scene, Winter Queen and a couple other projects were on that list...and they proudly hang in my home, smug in their completed glory. But Stroke of Midnight is still languishing in the WIP pile....she's a lady and just doesn't whine as loud as some others ;)
Currently I am totally captivated with Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid. I knew she was going to be a demanding wench, so not only did I put off starting her for a month after receiving the kit as a gift, I started at the very end of her tail....no face, no mouth, less whispering. Or so I thought. I gave in during my Vegas trip and stitched a few leaves (center start) in the hotel. After I got home, though, and put those first few stitches in her tail, well, she's been on me to do more, more, more ever since!
I still have some measure of sanity, though. I showed her that *I* am in control of my stitching time and put her aside on Saturday night to work on the first part of Mini Mystery-F (Chatelaine). But once I put the final beads in on Sunday morning, I was back to green and filling in more of her tail fin that afternoon
She's looking wonderful on the DaVinci Picture this Plus linen - the green is striking against the purple of the fabric. So not only do I hear a demanding voice - it's got a touch of arrogance given that she knows she's coming out beautifully. Heck, she's even claimed a wall in the house already....one that, not surprisingly, is wide enough for *one* design to hang. No sharing of space for this mermaid!
We'll see how she does when I have to put her down in a few days to stitch on an RR.....as for tonight (with the start of a new season of The Amazing Race) I'll be stitching a few more leaves, I think...
7/05/2004
Stitching Blogger's Question of the Week
The Stitcher's Five has been given a new life with a simple "Question of the Week" format....here we go!
Which project (finished or in progress) are you most proud of? Explain why.
First to mind - TW's Egyptian Sampler. I started it as soon as the kit reached me and took a year or so to finish it (always other projects in the works, of course). I knew exactly how I wanted the matting/framing done and it came out spectacular. I used it as a "visual aide" for my final MBA presentation (my last project was on TW Designworks) and the comments from the class were wonderful. Many couldn't believe that not only had I invested the time, but the amount of time it took. Such is the interaction with non-stitchers ;)
However, I'm also thinking that Emie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes fits the bill as well. It was my first foray into hardanger and I had the opportunity to show it off to Ms. Bishop when she visited my LNS. She was amazed that it was my first hardanger and very complimentary on the results :)
Which project (finished or in progress) are you most proud of? Explain why.
First to mind - TW's Egyptian Sampler. I started it as soon as the kit reached me and took a year or so to finish it (always other projects in the works, of course). I knew exactly how I wanted the matting/framing done and it came out spectacular. I used it as a "visual aide" for my final MBA presentation (my last project was on TW Designworks) and the comments from the class were wonderful. Many couldn't believe that not only had I invested the time, but the amount of time it took. Such is the interaction with non-stitchers ;)
However, I'm also thinking that Emie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes fits the bill as well. It was my first foray into hardanger and I had the opportunity to show it off to Ms. Bishop when she visited my LNS. She was amazed that it was my first hardanger and very complimentary on the results :)
7/02/2004
As promised...BIL Update - and an edit for the Friday Five
Surgery was yesterday and went well.
The cancer had not visibly metastasized beyond the colon, so removing it was all that was needed. Lymph nodes will be checked to be absolutely sure...but the doctor is very optimistic.
He is *extremely* lucky! After waiting for over a year with *visible* symptoms, and only a temporary inconvenience (they will be doing a new procedure in a few months that will reduce that further).
Thank you all for your positive vibes! They really do have power....
The Friday Five
For each question, pick one of the options & say why you made your choice. Feel free to waffle between the two choices, or to not choose either.
Waffles? Yeah...I'll take some waffles..a little butter..a little syrup....
1. Would you rather earn more money or have more time off?
More time off!!! I make enough money (shocking, I know) but I would love more time to pursue my non-money-making interests.
2. Which is more important, the ends or the means?
Tough one. In stitching, it's the journey that's important to me, not the finished piece - which serves as a visible reminder of all that went on during the stitching of the piece. So, if we extrapolate that to the rest of my life...the means hold more importance to me than the ends :)
3. How are our personalities formed, by nature or through nurture?
Nature starts them, nurture dictates the path they take.
4. Who do you feel closer to, your mother or your father?
Considering I can't recall the last time I spoke with my father...I guess I'll answer my mother!
5. Why do you answer these silly questions, out of boredom or out of love of introspection?
Habit! LOL
The cancer had not visibly metastasized beyond the colon, so removing it was all that was needed. Lymph nodes will be checked to be absolutely sure...but the doctor is very optimistic.
He is *extremely* lucky! After waiting for over a year with *visible* symptoms, and only a temporary inconvenience (they will be doing a new procedure in a few months that will reduce that further).
Thank you all for your positive vibes! They really do have power....
The Friday Five
For each question, pick one of the options & say why you made your choice. Feel free to waffle between the two choices, or to not choose either.
Waffles? Yeah...I'll take some waffles..a little butter..a little syrup....
1. Would you rather earn more money or have more time off?
More time off!!! I make enough money (shocking, I know) but I would love more time to pursue my non-money-making interests.
2. Which is more important, the ends or the means?
Tough one. In stitching, it's the journey that's important to me, not the finished piece - which serves as a visible reminder of all that went on during the stitching of the piece. So, if we extrapolate that to the rest of my life...the means hold more importance to me than the ends :)
3. How are our personalities formed, by nature or through nurture?
Nature starts them, nurture dictates the path they take.
4. Who do you feel closer to, your mother or your father?
Considering I can't recall the last time I spoke with my father...I guess I'll answer my mother!
5. Why do you answer these silly questions, out of boredom or out of love of introspection?
Habit! LOL
7/01/2004
An MBA, an Accident, a Diagnosis and a word on bias....
It's a tossed salad today..what can I say?
An MBA
Yes, it's official - I'm DONE! I have successfully completed my Masters of Business Administration - Technology Management.
I'm so glad it's over...LOL
An Accident
Tuesday morning, I was "involved" in an accident. I'm fine, car is basically fine, except it now has a "character smudge" on the rubber part of the left rear bumper. Hey, it's a Jeep..these things happen. However the woman in the Blazer behind me got rear-ended by a Mitsubishi Galant with the Mitz getting the worst of the exchange. She was trying to get out of his way by diving into a turning lane to my left when she clipped my bumper. It's a good thing, too....if she hadn't had the chance to get in that lane before the Mitz hit her, my back door would have had FAR more damage!
Blazer owner offered to have my car detailed as I wasn't intending on submitting a claim for damages...nice gesture :)
A Diagnosis
My brother-in-law (husband of DH's sister) has been tentatively diagnosed with colon cancer. A surgical consultation and probably exploratory surgery is the next step. As he's had symptoms for over a year without acting, it's definitely fairly far along. Any good thoughts will be welcome...he's a great guy...
Bias
According to Dictionary.com:
bi·as n.
1 - A line going diagonally across the grain of fabric: Cut the cloth on the bias.
2 - a - A preference or an inclination, especially one that inhibits impartial judgment.
b - An unfair act or policy stemming from prejudice.
3 - A statistical sampling or testing error caused by systematically favoring some outcomes over others.
4 - Sports.
a - A weight or irregularity in a ball that causes it to swerve, as in lawn bowling.
b - The tendency of such a ball to swerve.
5 - The fixed voltage applied to an electrode.
I think we can skip definitions 1, 3, 4 and 5 for this discussion.
Everyone has some sort of bias. Our experiences, beliefs, environment and influences impact every decision we make and how we see the world. I find it unreasonable to expect a group of people to be free of bias in *all* subjects. The more likely situation - a "balanced bias." Meaning that for everyone that has a tendency to hate green vegetables, there's someone else that loves them. At the end of the day, they will be on the menu, in some form or another.
Is bias bad? Not inherently. Is bias good? Same answer. It just *is*. You can ask the same question to 10 people and get the same answer....but the *reasons* for that answer will all be based on personal bias and perception. Does that make some reasoning right and others wrong? No...it makes the answer/decision/judgement personal. And adds another layer of personal experience for the next decision....
..but I still hate green beans ;)
An MBA
Yes, it's official - I'm DONE! I have successfully completed my Masters of Business Administration - Technology Management.
I'm so glad it's over...LOL
An Accident
Tuesday morning, I was "involved" in an accident. I'm fine, car is basically fine, except it now has a "character smudge" on the rubber part of the left rear bumper. Hey, it's a Jeep..these things happen. However the woman in the Blazer behind me got rear-ended by a Mitsubishi Galant with the Mitz getting the worst of the exchange. She was trying to get out of his way by diving into a turning lane to my left when she clipped my bumper. It's a good thing, too....if she hadn't had the chance to get in that lane before the Mitz hit her, my back door would have had FAR more damage!
Blazer owner offered to have my car detailed as I wasn't intending on submitting a claim for damages...nice gesture :)
A Diagnosis
My brother-in-law (husband of DH's sister) has been tentatively diagnosed with colon cancer. A surgical consultation and probably exploratory surgery is the next step. As he's had symptoms for over a year without acting, it's definitely fairly far along. Any good thoughts will be welcome...he's a great guy...
Bias
According to Dictionary.com:
bi·as n.
1 - A line going diagonally across the grain of fabric: Cut the cloth on the bias.
2 - a - A preference or an inclination, especially one that inhibits impartial judgment.
b - An unfair act or policy stemming from prejudice.
3 - A statistical sampling or testing error caused by systematically favoring some outcomes over others.
4 - Sports.
a - A weight or irregularity in a ball that causes it to swerve, as in lawn bowling.
b - The tendency of such a ball to swerve.
5 - The fixed voltage applied to an electrode.
I think we can skip definitions 1, 3, 4 and 5 for this discussion.
Everyone has some sort of bias. Our experiences, beliefs, environment and influences impact every decision we make and how we see the world. I find it unreasonable to expect a group of people to be free of bias in *all* subjects. The more likely situation - a "balanced bias." Meaning that for everyone that has a tendency to hate green vegetables, there's someone else that loves them. At the end of the day, they will be on the menu, in some form or another.
Is bias bad? Not inherently. Is bias good? Same answer. It just *is*. You can ask the same question to 10 people and get the same answer....but the *reasons* for that answer will all be based on personal bias and perception. Does that make some reasoning right and others wrong? No...it makes the answer/decision/judgement personal. And adds another layer of personal experience for the next decision....
..but I still hate green beans ;)
6/29/2004
Villain Test
First, something fun:
I took the most accurate villain personality test
created by: The Arch Villainess Gracie
I like it!
I took the most accurate villain personality test
created by: The Arch Villainess Gracie
I like it!
6/28/2004
Warning! Grab a drink...this is going to be long....
Lot's to discuss today, so let's get going. First up, The Stitcher's Five (*extremely* appropriate this week!)
1. Do you take something new to stitch when you travel - a special travel stitching project?
If I don't happen to have something suitable already going, I'll absolutely start something new! It needs to be small, fit in my purse or carryon and have relatively big color sections - to avoid starting/stopping/cutting as much as possible. *Very* important on airplanes! I like to stitch on small kits on planes especially - my collection of Textile Heritage kits will keep me going for years LOL.
2. Do you plan your trips around stitching shops?
I have. Of course the biggest plan is the "someday" trip to England. I intend to base our itinerary around TWBB Members.
3. Do you believe that if you cross state lines you MUST by fibers?
Hmm..haven't heard that. But I certainly like the sentiment!
4. Where have you stitched?
Arizona (of course), California, Nevada, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Maryland (in the Baltimore Airport), Virginia, Oklahoma and New Mexico.
5. Do your friends/family bring you stitching related gifts when they travel?
Mom has called me from an out-of-state LNS a time or two asking if there was anything I needed... :)
Weekend Update!
I survived Vegas! And more surprising, Vegas survived me!
DH and I had a great weekend getaway. The 6-hour drive is relaxing and allowed me to make excellent progress on the current baby afghan. I didn't quite finish - but I am 2/3 thru after there and back this weekend.
We stayed at the Riviera Hotel - one of the classic Vegas spots. (It's not really a "kid-friendly" place, so if you go with little ones, I recommend Circus Circus or Excalibur for more in-hotel options.) This was our first stay at The Riviera, but we may return (depending on the outcome of a bit of trouble..but I'll save that for a few). Friday night we walked down to Caesar's Palace for dinner (at Stage Deli - yum!) and watched the Mirage volcano (very cool) and tried for the Sirens of TI (Treasure Island) show. Unfortunately due to "technical difficulties" the show didn't run Friday night :(
Saturday we *drove* down to Paris and walked thru the hotel (amazing!). We then made our way to the Imperial Palace for the Auto Collection. Oh My My...what an amazing collection of cars with a couple of old Indian motorcycles thrown in! The Cadillacs! The Dusenbergs! The Thunderbirds! I *love* old cars and these were just awesome. Sadly, my most-hoped-for vehicle was not currently on display, though. I really want to see a Tucker....
A walk back down the strip put us at the new Aladdin and the Desert Passage Shops. Wow. Lunch was a delicious stop at Cheeseburger at the Oasis (try the Island burger...very tasty) and we did manage some shopping at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art store (Egyptian-themed bookmarks for DD, DH and me and a great little dragon and knight figures for DS). DH picked out my graduation present at Tolstoy's - a clock for the front room. A Rhythm Magic Sign of the Time clock, specifically. Considering that we've been drooling over these gorgeous clocks since our last trip to Vegas in November, I thought it a *very* nice gift :)
After all that walking and shopping in 100+ heat with millions of other people doing the same, we returned to our room for a breather. DH slept, I read. In fact, I finished Janet Evanovich's newest: Ten Big Ones (it arrived on Wednesday last week). Fun, quick, where's #11? LOL
Saturday night found us at the Ristorante Italiano in The Riviera. I have to say I had the best spinach salad I've *ever* had in my entire life. The dressing was a warm bacon/red onion/brown sugar/Grey Poupon mustard/worcestshire concoction prepared at the table. For dinner, gnocchi in a fresh tomato sauce...soo good.
At this point we finally started gambling. Yeah, DH and I are *big* gamblers. I headed to the nickel video poker machines and he played his couple roulette spins. $30 later we had enough and went back upstairs to order milkshakes from room service and watch Baseball Tonight on ESPN! At this point I also made a ceremonial start on Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid - only 2 needles worth of green, but still, a start!
Sunday morning - up around 8:30 to pack and get ready to go. I had everything organized and ready to pick up and leave as soon as we returned from breakfast. Went down to the coffee shop, had breakfast, returned to the room to check out via TV, grab stuff and trek to the parking garage. I did make one quick stop to buy a t-shirt or two, hat for DS and traditional magnet. When we finally got to the car, I realized I was missing something - no camera bag on my shoulder. Not good. Ok, must've left it in the room, right? Wrong. It's not there...nor has housekeeping picked it up or any trace of it. It was in the room when we left for breakfast but not when we returned. The one vacation I manage to remember to *take* pictures and the camera disappears! I filed a report with Security...we'll see what happens....
Drive home was uneventful. Crocheted more....decided that installing satellite radio in the cars was one of the best decisions we ever made (no CD's to drag along and no searching for stations in the Arizona desert!) and made good time with only a single stop. Picked up kids and went home to collapse!
Tonight I've got to do some quick grocery shopping and finish off the Bless the Baby I stitched up for a classmate. Tomorrow night is MY LAST CLASS so I have to give it to him, then!
1. Do you take something new to stitch when you travel - a special travel stitching project?
If I don't happen to have something suitable already going, I'll absolutely start something new! It needs to be small, fit in my purse or carryon and have relatively big color sections - to avoid starting/stopping/cutting as much as possible. *Very* important on airplanes! I like to stitch on small kits on planes especially - my collection of Textile Heritage kits will keep me going for years LOL.
2. Do you plan your trips around stitching shops?
I have. Of course the biggest plan is the "someday" trip to England. I intend to base our itinerary around TWBB Members.
3. Do you believe that if you cross state lines you MUST by fibers?
Hmm..haven't heard that. But I certainly like the sentiment!
4. Where have you stitched?
Arizona (of course), California, Nevada, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Maryland (in the Baltimore Airport), Virginia, Oklahoma and New Mexico.
5. Do your friends/family bring you stitching related gifts when they travel?
Mom has called me from an out-of-state LNS a time or two asking if there was anything I needed... :)
Weekend Update!
I survived Vegas! And more surprising, Vegas survived me!
DH and I had a great weekend getaway. The 6-hour drive is relaxing and allowed me to make excellent progress on the current baby afghan. I didn't quite finish - but I am 2/3 thru after there and back this weekend.
We stayed at the Riviera Hotel - one of the classic Vegas spots. (It's not really a "kid-friendly" place, so if you go with little ones, I recommend Circus Circus or Excalibur for more in-hotel options.) This was our first stay at The Riviera, but we may return (depending on the outcome of a bit of trouble..but I'll save that for a few). Friday night we walked down to Caesar's Palace for dinner (at Stage Deli - yum!) and watched the Mirage volcano (very cool) and tried for the Sirens of TI (Treasure Island) show. Unfortunately due to "technical difficulties" the show didn't run Friday night :(
Saturday we *drove* down to Paris and walked thru the hotel (amazing!). We then made our way to the Imperial Palace for the Auto Collection. Oh My My...what an amazing collection of cars with a couple of old Indian motorcycles thrown in! The Cadillacs! The Dusenbergs! The Thunderbirds! I *love* old cars and these were just awesome. Sadly, my most-hoped-for vehicle was not currently on display, though. I really want to see a Tucker....
A walk back down the strip put us at the new Aladdin and the Desert Passage Shops. Wow. Lunch was a delicious stop at Cheeseburger at the Oasis (try the Island burger...very tasty) and we did manage some shopping at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art store (Egyptian-themed bookmarks for DD, DH and me and a great little dragon and knight figures for DS). DH picked out my graduation present at Tolstoy's - a clock for the front room. A Rhythm Magic Sign of the Time clock, specifically. Considering that we've been drooling over these gorgeous clocks since our last trip to Vegas in November, I thought it a *very* nice gift :)
After all that walking and shopping in 100+ heat with millions of other people doing the same, we returned to our room for a breather. DH slept, I read. In fact, I finished Janet Evanovich's newest: Ten Big Ones (it arrived on Wednesday last week). Fun, quick, where's #11? LOL
Saturday night found us at the Ristorante Italiano in The Riviera. I have to say I had the best spinach salad I've *ever* had in my entire life. The dressing was a warm bacon/red onion/brown sugar/Grey Poupon mustard/worcestshire concoction prepared at the table. For dinner, gnocchi in a fresh tomato sauce...soo good.
At this point we finally started gambling. Yeah, DH and I are *big* gamblers. I headed to the nickel video poker machines and he played his couple roulette spins. $30 later we had enough and went back upstairs to order milkshakes from room service and watch Baseball Tonight on ESPN! At this point I also made a ceremonial start on Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid - only 2 needles worth of green, but still, a start!
Sunday morning - up around 8:30 to pack and get ready to go. I had everything organized and ready to pick up and leave as soon as we returned from breakfast. Went down to the coffee shop, had breakfast, returned to the room to check out via TV, grab stuff and trek to the parking garage. I did make one quick stop to buy a t-shirt or two, hat for DS and traditional magnet. When we finally got to the car, I realized I was missing something - no camera bag on my shoulder. Not good. Ok, must've left it in the room, right? Wrong. It's not there...nor has housekeeping picked it up or any trace of it. It was in the room when we left for breakfast but not when we returned. The one vacation I manage to remember to *take* pictures and the camera disappears! I filed a report with Security...we'll see what happens....
Drive home was uneventful. Crocheted more....decided that installing satellite radio in the cars was one of the best decisions we ever made (no CD's to drag along and no searching for stations in the Arizona desert!) and made good time with only a single stop. Picked up kids and went home to collapse!
Tonight I've got to do some quick grocery shopping and finish off the Bless the Baby I stitched up for a classmate. Tomorrow night is MY LAST CLASS so I have to give it to him, then!
6/24/2004
Short on creativity today....
So, instead, I'll be "borrowing" from other's blogs...
From Jenni's (thermalgal) blog....
The ABC's of Annette
Act your age? Never!
Born on what day of the week? Wednesday
Chore you hate? Ironing
Dad's name? Bill
Essential makeup item? Eyeliner - and that's it!
Favorite actor? Sean Connery (though if you ask me tomorrow, I may say something differently)
Gold or silver? Gold
Hometown? New Buffalo, MI
Instruments you play? Played the french horn in grade school...guitar for a few years
Job? Technical Analyst (Data Warehouse Admin, SQL Server DBA)
Kids? 2 - Daughter, 14 and Son, almost 6
Living arrangements? Married, 2 kids, 2 dogs, 1 house
Mom's name? Pat
Need? A job for DH....
Overnight hospital stays? Tonsillectomy, Adenoidectomy, childbirth (x2), blood clot treatment last year
Phobias? None that I know of...
Quote you like? Just one? "Baseball players are smarter than football players. How often do you see a baseball team penalized for too many men on the field?" ~Jim Bouton, 1988
Religious affiliation? Methodist
Siblings? One younger brother (9 years younger)
Time you wake up? By alarm clock: 6:00, by choice: 9:00
Unique talent? Remain calm when others are panicking...lol
Worst habit? Procrastination!
X-rays you've had? Dental, chest x-rays, shoulder (never broken a bone)
Yummy food you make? Cheesecake, Macaroni & Cheese...
Zodiac Sign? Aries
My Warning Label (from WhizGidget Wonders)
From Go-Quiz.com
Hmmm...interesting...very interesting....
From Jenni's (thermalgal) blog....
The ABC's of Annette
Act your age? Never!
Born on what day of the week? Wednesday
Chore you hate? Ironing
Dad's name? Bill
Essential makeup item? Eyeliner - and that's it!
Favorite actor? Sean Connery (though if you ask me tomorrow, I may say something differently)
Gold or silver? Gold
Hometown? New Buffalo, MI
Instruments you play? Played the french horn in grade school...guitar for a few years
Job? Technical Analyst (Data Warehouse Admin, SQL Server DBA)
Kids? 2 - Daughter, 14 and Son, almost 6
Living arrangements? Married, 2 kids, 2 dogs, 1 house
Mom's name? Pat
Need? A job for DH....
Overnight hospital stays? Tonsillectomy, Adenoidectomy, childbirth (x2), blood clot treatment last year
Phobias? None that I know of...
Quote you like? Just one? "Baseball players are smarter than football players. How often do you see a baseball team penalized for too many men on the field?" ~Jim Bouton, 1988
Religious affiliation? Methodist
Siblings? One younger brother (9 years younger)
Time you wake up? By alarm clock: 6:00, by choice: 9:00
Unique talent? Remain calm when others are panicking...lol
Worst habit? Procrastination!
X-rays you've had? Dental, chest x-rays, shoulder (never broken a bone)
Yummy food you make? Cheesecake, Macaroni & Cheese...
Zodiac Sign? Aries
My Warning Label (from WhizGidget Wonders)
| Informationi |
| Annette is a restricted area. Authorised personel only |
From Go-Quiz.com
Hmmm...interesting...very interesting....
6/22/2004
I'm Late!
Sorry...so sorry...just busy getting *final* coursework done for school and a pretty darn productive weekend. Also back to work after being out at training all last week left me with 300+ emails to sort thru!
First...this week's Stitchers' Five:
1. What was your first finished stitched piece?
That would be Douglas Designs Carousel Fantasy Part I. I started August 1987 and finished in December.
2. What was the first piece you used beads on?
Ummm...good question. I remember using perforated paper and beads to stitch some small Christmas pins in the mid 90's. The first stitched piece I remember adding beads to would be the family tree I designed for my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary in 1997: Baney Family Tree. The fruit on the tree is beaded...
3. What was the first piece you used blends on?
That would be a tie (I started them both about the same time). Teresa Wentzler's Stroke of Midnight and Stretch. At least Stretch is finished....
4. What was the first piece you used speciality stitches on?
Cows...you are making me think this week! I can't remember if Hummingbead Heaven by JustNan has specialty stitches. I think it might be only a few french knots. If that's the case, I guess the first *real* piece would be Emmie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes...first specialty *and* first hardanger :)
5. What was the first piece you stitched on evenweave or linen as opposed to aida?
Santas of Fable & Fantasy from Cross Stitch & Country Crafts magazine (either '90 or '91) Also first time using blending filament...
My weekend was very productive stitching-wise. I finished off Mini-Mystery E (see below), finished this month's Ornament RR (no pic anywhere...yet) and started/finished Lizzie*Kate's Bless the Baby (pic after I get it finished-finished into a bellpull). I also pulled out the next WIP StRIP candidate - a bookmark from those fine ladies at Textile Heritage (Victorian Garden). Emerald Mermaid was whispering seductively in her flimsy green stitching bag (the hussy!) but I held firm to the plan of finishing a couple more before giving in to her plaintative whines. Besides, as she was an early graduation gift, I think it *much* more appropriate to start her after all my classes are offically over and done (next Tuesday!!!).
DH had a fine Father's Day. He'd been making his wish list known for several weeks ("Give me TOOLS. I need TOOLS.") so Saturday morning found me at Sears hauling a Craftsman Project Center out to the Jeep along with a few other odds and ends to start filling up the drawers ;). As it was inconceivable that I could either a) get it back *out* of the Jeep without his help or b) hide it *anywhere* in the house or garage that he wouldn't easily find it, he got it when I came home on Saturday. His requested menu for Sunday dinner was grilled hamburgers and fries (gotta love a simple man) with chocolate cake and chocolate-chip ice cream for dessert. Two weeks ago I made a "Darn Good Chocolate Cake" (from The Cake Mix Doctor's cookbook...her name, not mine) that is amazingly good and he wanted another..LOL. The ice cream was a challenge, surprisingly. I ended up buying a pint of Haagen Dasz chocolate chip as not one of the "regular" brands had a version in the freezer! Mint chocolate chip - no trouble, 3 to choose from!
This weekend we are off to Vegas! I intend to visit the car museum at Imperial Palace and see the *entire* Bellagio fountain show along with relaxing with my DH (no kids!). I'll also be madly crocheting in the car to finish off the latest baby afghan...the one that goes with the L*K piece and I need to deliver next week to the new father :)
TTFN!
First...this week's Stitchers' Five:
1. What was your first finished stitched piece?
That would be Douglas Designs Carousel Fantasy Part I. I started August 1987 and finished in December.
2. What was the first piece you used beads on?
Ummm...good question. I remember using perforated paper and beads to stitch some small Christmas pins in the mid 90's. The first stitched piece I remember adding beads to would be the family tree I designed for my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary in 1997: Baney Family Tree. The fruit on the tree is beaded...
3. What was the first piece you used blends on?
That would be a tie (I started them both about the same time). Teresa Wentzler's Stroke of Midnight and Stretch. At least Stretch is finished....
4. What was the first piece you used speciality stitches on?
Cows...you are making me think this week! I can't remember if Hummingbead Heaven by JustNan has specialty stitches. I think it might be only a few french knots. If that's the case, I guess the first *real* piece would be Emmie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes...first specialty *and* first hardanger :)
5. What was the first piece you stitched on evenweave or linen as opposed to aida?
Santas of Fable & Fantasy from Cross Stitch & Country Crafts magazine (either '90 or '91) Also first time using blending filament...
My weekend was very productive stitching-wise. I finished off Mini-Mystery E (see below), finished this month's Ornament RR (no pic anywhere...yet) and started/finished Lizzie*Kate's Bless the Baby (pic after I get it finished-finished into a bellpull). I also pulled out the next WIP StRIP candidate - a bookmark from those fine ladies at Textile Heritage (Victorian Garden). Emerald Mermaid was whispering seductively in her flimsy green stitching bag (the hussy!) but I held firm to the plan of finishing a couple more before giving in to her plaintative whines. Besides, as she was an early graduation gift, I think it *much* more appropriate to start her after all my classes are offically over and done (next Tuesday!!!).
DH had a fine Father's Day. He'd been making his wish list known for several weeks ("Give me TOOLS. I need TOOLS.") so Saturday morning found me at Sears hauling a Craftsman Project Center out to the Jeep along with a few other odds and ends to start filling up the drawers ;). As it was inconceivable that I could either a) get it back *out* of the Jeep without his help or b) hide it *anywhere* in the house or garage that he wouldn't easily find it, he got it when I came home on Saturday. His requested menu for Sunday dinner was grilled hamburgers and fries (gotta love a simple man) with chocolate cake and chocolate-chip ice cream for dessert. Two weeks ago I made a "Darn Good Chocolate Cake" (from The Cake Mix Doctor's cookbook...her name, not mine) that is amazingly good and he wanted another..LOL. The ice cream was a challenge, surprisingly. I ended up buying a pint of Haagen Dasz chocolate chip as not one of the "regular" brands had a version in the freezer! Mint chocolate chip - no trouble, 3 to choose from!
This weekend we are off to Vegas! I intend to visit the car museum at Imperial Palace and see the *entire* Bellagio fountain show along with relaxing with my DH (no kids!). I'll also be madly crocheting in the car to finish off the latest baby afghan...the one that goes with the L*K piece and I need to deliver next week to the new father :)
TTFN!
6/18/2004
Finished Mini Mystery E!
And I must say...it's *very* pretty! Tomorrow I'll check the LNS for hardware :)
Have a look: Mini Mystery E(Emerald) by Chatelaine.
Have a look: Mini Mystery E(Emerald) by Chatelaine.
The Friday Five....and a week recap!
It's been a crazy week! I spent the week in a training/certification class for one of the applications I support and crammed a whole bunch of "stuff" into my head for a certication exam this morning! Happily I passed but my brain is definitely overworked! LOL
I've done some house-cleaning on the left there...adding the new Friday Five button, fixing links, updating the book list (I finished two this week - more on that in a sec) and adding an entry for "last finish."
Book Finishes
The Magician's Guild by Trudi Canavan. Very good new series! It's suitable for both adult and young adult (I'll let DD read it). I thought it was an older trilogy but the next book was only out in paper back a couple months ago! LOL (It'll be on my next Amazon order ;))
Key of Knowledge by Nora Roberts. Second in the "Key Trilogy." I love her combination of romance, magic and strong characters....and yeah...a little s-e-x is always interesting! LOL
Speaking of....
A bit of Stash Enhancement this week as my Stitching Bits & Bobs order arrived :) I'm now the proud owner of VS Seaside Garden Sampler, TW's Best of Christmas book and Lizzie*Kate's Bless the Baby (which I need to work up this weekend as the baby it was bought for was born last Monday!). I also received the kit for Mini Mystery F (Chatelaine) and there will be a happy dance on Mini-E later today ;)
And now for....
The Friday Five
1. What is the creepiest everyday object you know?
While I don't currently own any, I did at one time....any former animal that's been stuffed! EX has a deer and fish that just creeped me out every day!
2. What's the most useful everyday item?
Obvious choices...computer, car, cel phone. Not so obvious - cordless can opener and toothbrush!
3. What's the most useless everday item?
Coffeemaker! DH finds it rather handy of a morning, though.....
4. If the power was out for 24 hours, what would you do?
Sleep some, read some (nice long daylight hours in Arizona and *big* dining room windows!) and enjoy the quiet....
5. If you had to have one item you use everyday surgically attached to you, what would it be, and why?
First thought - scissors, however this would preclude me from flying anywhere! LOL I guess I'll pick a good refillable pen...I'm forever searching for one :D
Enjoy the weekend all...and....
I've done some house-cleaning on the left there...adding the new Friday Five button, fixing links, updating the book list (I finished two this week - more on that in a sec) and adding an entry for "last finish."
Book Finishes
The Magician's Guild by Trudi Canavan. Very good new series! It's suitable for both adult and young adult (I'll let DD read it). I thought it was an older trilogy but the next book was only out in paper back a couple months ago! LOL (It'll be on my next Amazon order ;))
Key of Knowledge by Nora Roberts. Second in the "Key Trilogy." I love her combination of romance, magic and strong characters....and yeah...a little s-e-x is always interesting! LOL
Speaking of....
A bit of Stash Enhancement this week as my Stitching Bits & Bobs order arrived :) I'm now the proud owner of VS Seaside Garden Sampler, TW's Best of Christmas book and Lizzie*Kate's Bless the Baby (which I need to work up this weekend as the baby it was bought for was born last Monday!). I also received the kit for Mini Mystery F (Chatelaine) and there will be a happy dance on Mini-E later today ;)
And now for....
The Friday Five
1. What is the creepiest everyday object you know?
While I don't currently own any, I did at one time....any former animal that's been stuffed! EX has a deer and fish that just creeped me out every day!
2. What's the most useful everyday item?
Obvious choices...computer, car, cel phone. Not so obvious - cordless can opener and toothbrush!
3. What's the most useless everday item?
Coffeemaker! DH finds it rather handy of a morning, though.....
4. If the power was out for 24 hours, what would you do?
Sleep some, read some (nice long daylight hours in Arizona and *big* dining room windows!) and enjoy the quiet....
5. If you had to have one item you use everyday surgically attached to you, what would it be, and why?
First thought - scissors, however this would preclude me from flying anywhere! LOL I guess I'll pick a good refillable pen...I'm forever searching for one :D
Enjoy the weekend all...and....
6/15/2004
However did they know?
| How to make a Annette |
| Ingredients: 3 parts intelligence 3 parts courage 5 parts leadership |
| Method: Combine in a tall glass half filled with crushed ice. Top it off with a sprinkle of caring and enjoy! |
Personality cocktail
From Go-Quiz.com
Stitcher's Five
1. Is your DH/partner supportive of your stitching?
If he was any more supportive he'd start stitching himself, I think! If he goes with me to an LNS, I can easily double my final total. If I come back from a stitching trip with "insufficient" stash he gets on my case. If I don't have some sort of package arrive on a weekly basis he asks what the problem is.
And the best of all....on the weekend I often hear "Go Stitch!" :) Also on the weekdays if it's been a particularly stressful day!
2. Do you ever stitch in company?
Yes, the Stitcher's Lounge is a great place to be when attending Stitching Festival events! I'll also bring my stitching whenever I visit my mom's or grandparents' house. I also attend regular "Stitch & Bi**ch" sessions on Wednesday's at lunchtime with a few gals I work with.
3. Been to a GTG (Get ToGether)?
I have met up with quite a few TWBB Members at the various CATS and retreats I've attended in the last couple years.
4. Does anyone complain about your stitching?
If they do, they know not to do it where I can hear them!
5. Ever had a stranger comment on your stitching?
My framers love my stitching and I've even taken it to the ballpark - lots of comments there :)
If he was any more supportive he'd start stitching himself, I think! If he goes with me to an LNS, I can easily double my final total. If I come back from a stitching trip with "insufficient" stash he gets on my case. If I don't have some sort of package arrive on a weekly basis he asks what the problem is.
And the best of all....on the weekend I often hear "Go Stitch!" :) Also on the weekdays if it's been a particularly stressful day!
2. Do you ever stitch in company?
Yes, the Stitcher's Lounge is a great place to be when attending Stitching Festival events! I'll also bring my stitching whenever I visit my mom's or grandparents' house. I also attend regular "Stitch & Bi**ch" sessions on Wednesday's at lunchtime with a few gals I work with.
3. Been to a GTG (Get ToGether)?
I have met up with quite a few TWBB Members at the various CATS and retreats I've attended in the last couple years.
4. Does anyone complain about your stitching?
If they do, they know not to do it where I can hear them!
5. Ever had a stranger comment on your stitching?
My framers love my stitching and I've even taken it to the ballpark - lots of comments there :)
6/11/2004
The Return of the Friday Five!
It's back! Well it's at a different location and a different author...but it's still The Friday Five...
For June 11
There's a movie being made about your life! Which celebrity will play...
1. you? Why?
I pick Sandra Bullock - not drop-dead gorgeous, kinda cute, definitely got the "slightly geek-y, occasionally naive" look down
2. your love interest? Why?
Tough one...very tough. A younger John Goodman, I think. Kinda goofy, geek-y, yet very gentle
3. your best friend? Why?
If Hollywood can find a 6-ft tall actress with one leg, more power to them!
4. your enemy? Why?
This would have to be something computer generated...I have no enemies!
5. any family member? Why?
Can Emma Thompson play my mother? If she uses Professor Trelawney (Harry Potter character) as a base, she wouldn't be too far off (just leave out the visions..LOL).
For June 11
There's a movie being made about your life! Which celebrity will play...
1. you? Why?
I pick Sandra Bullock - not drop-dead gorgeous, kinda cute, definitely got the "slightly geek-y, occasionally naive" look down
2. your love interest? Why?
Tough one...very tough. A younger John Goodman, I think. Kinda goofy, geek-y, yet very gentle
3. your best friend? Why?
If Hollywood can find a 6-ft tall actress with one leg, more power to them!
4. your enemy? Why?
This would have to be something computer generated...I have no enemies!
5. any family member? Why?
Can Emma Thompson play my mother? If she uses Professor Trelawney (Harry Potter character) as a base, she wouldn't be too far off (just leave out the visions..LOL).
6/09/2004
Goodnight, Martha
The needlework world lost one of its shining stars this week. Martha Schmidt of Needle Maid Designs was killed in a car accident on her way to a show.
I had the pleasure of taking two classes from Martha in the last few months. In Hershey last year, I took "Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches" after it was highly recommended by a friend taking the class in Santa Clara. This year I took "Second Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches" with two friends in Santa Clara last month.
Martha was a gifted teacher and an all around amazing lady. She simply had the "teacher-aura" around her and had tremendous patience with the most demanding students (of which there were a few in my class..lol). It truly was a pleasure to spend 4 hours huddled over doodle-cloths and perle coton working intricate filling stitches....we didn't end up with much to show at the end of class but the hands-on work was invaluable.
I had originally taken the classes only for the techniques and the detailed instructions. Martha had discussed with us the possibility of a third class next year for a bellpull incorporating even more stitches. A class I would have been first in line for....
In Santa Clara this year, Martha and I also discussed her "edging" classes and had decided on one for me to take in Hershey. I had planned to beg a lesson in buillion knots...but that was put off until Hershey due to time constraint....
I'll be starting the second Sampler this Friday evening as my small tribute to Martha. May you find new adventures wherever you may roam....
I had the pleasure of taking two classes from Martha in the last few months. In Hershey last year, I took "Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches" after it was highly recommended by a friend taking the class in Santa Clara. This year I took "Second Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches" with two friends in Santa Clara last month.
Martha was a gifted teacher and an all around amazing lady. She simply had the "teacher-aura" around her and had tremendous patience with the most demanding students (of which there were a few in my class..lol). It truly was a pleasure to spend 4 hours huddled over doodle-cloths and perle coton working intricate filling stitches....we didn't end up with much to show at the end of class but the hands-on work was invaluable.
I had originally taken the classes only for the techniques and the detailed instructions. Martha had discussed with us the possibility of a third class next year for a bellpull incorporating even more stitches. A class I would have been first in line for....
In Santa Clara this year, Martha and I also discussed her "edging" classes and had decided on one for me to take in Hershey. I had planned to beg a lesson in buillion knots...but that was put off until Hershey due to time constraint....
I'll be starting the second Sampler this Friday evening as my small tribute to Martha. May you find new adventures wherever you may roam....
6/08/2004
I'm the Mom?
Yes, I know, with two kids I am absolutely *their* Mom, but I seem to have earned a new title on a fellow blogger's sidebar.
In my cruising of blogs yesterday (while my poor laptop was chugging away on a large database backup behind the scenes) I happened to notice a new entry on Perle Moon, Stacey aka Prinn's blog. See the "Mother of the Boards" link on the right there? Under "Dreamers"? That links back here.
So the questions begs...how on earth did I earn this title? Don't misunderstand here...it doesn't bother me at all, I'm just curious :) I did self-title myself "Rotation Mom" on the Rotation BB but that's the only board that title appears on....and there are *lots* of custom titles there.
I sincerely hope I haven't landed in a "strict, disciplinarian" mother role...my kids would laugh at that. I'm more of the "if she yells it isn't too serious, it's when she whispers that you need to worry" kind of Mom. I find lowering my voice and speaking distinctly and calmly gets my children to move *much* faster than any decibel I could possibly reach by yelling! I discuss expectations and goals and consideration with them. They must be constantly cognizant of all three in what they do and how they act. "I'm disappointed in you" is a powerful statement for me.
Recently (ok, during my Santa Clara trip) I had to "be the Mom" with DD when she made a seriously bad decision (that caused far more trouble and worry for several folks). Not something I enjoy on vacation and for the most part, not something I have to generally do with my daughter. She's 14. She's *expected* to know better...and behave better. I did not yell. I did not curse (ok, well, I don't usually do that unless I'm *really* angry) but I did make it absolutely clear that her behavior was dangerous, inappropriate and beyond explanation. I also made it clear that I would not suffer a pouting and withdrawn child for the rest of the evening....especially as we were with a group for dinner and I wasn't there to make explanations all night but rather enjoy some great company. She behaved....
Of course, being the Mom means I get to have *some* fun. I encourage...I enable...I've sent bits of stash off to those in need. Sometimes they know it's from me, many times not. I check out new boards as they sprout up and stay a quiet background member on most. (Let someone else be the Mom there!)
I suppose it's just like all things....sometimes you choose to be Mom and other times it's just thrust upon you :) Thanks Stacey, for helping me see at least one person's idea of me....
In my cruising of blogs yesterday (while my poor laptop was chugging away on a large database backup behind the scenes) I happened to notice a new entry on Perle Moon, Stacey aka Prinn's blog. See the "Mother of the Boards" link on the right there? Under "Dreamers"? That links back here.
So the questions begs...how on earth did I earn this title? Don't misunderstand here...it doesn't bother me at all, I'm just curious :) I did self-title myself "Rotation Mom" on the Rotation BB but that's the only board that title appears on....and there are *lots* of custom titles there.
I sincerely hope I haven't landed in a "strict, disciplinarian" mother role...my kids would laugh at that. I'm more of the "if she yells it isn't too serious, it's when she whispers that you need to worry" kind of Mom. I find lowering my voice and speaking distinctly and calmly gets my children to move *much* faster than any decibel I could possibly reach by yelling! I discuss expectations and goals and consideration with them. They must be constantly cognizant of all three in what they do and how they act. "I'm disappointed in you" is a powerful statement for me.
Recently (ok, during my Santa Clara trip) I had to "be the Mom" with DD when she made a seriously bad decision (that caused far more trouble and worry for several folks). Not something I enjoy on vacation and for the most part, not something I have to generally do with my daughter. She's 14. She's *expected* to know better...and behave better. I did not yell. I did not curse (ok, well, I don't usually do that unless I'm *really* angry) but I did make it absolutely clear that her behavior was dangerous, inappropriate and beyond explanation. I also made it clear that I would not suffer a pouting and withdrawn child for the rest of the evening....especially as we were with a group for dinner and I wasn't there to make explanations all night but rather enjoy some great company. She behaved....
Of course, being the Mom means I get to have *some* fun. I encourage...I enable...I've sent bits of stash off to those in need. Sometimes they know it's from me, many times not. I check out new boards as they sprout up and stay a quiet background member on most. (Let someone else be the Mom there!)
I suppose it's just like all things....sometimes you choose to be Mom and other times it's just thrust upon you :) Thanks Stacey, for helping me see at least one person's idea of me....
6/07/2004
Stitchers' Five for June 7
Finishing questions this week! How apropos :)
1. Do you give away any of your finished stitching as gifts?
Occasionally. The wedding sampler I recently completed is a gift (waiting on the framer right now) and there are a couple babies that will be getting crocheted afghans this year.
My Granny, for the longest time, had more of my finished stitching hanging in her house than I did! That's no longer the case...but only recently!
2. Do you sell any of you finished stitching?
I haven't at this point....
3. Do you give any of your stitching away to charities?
I've done quilt squares for charity, but that's it.
4. Do you keep any of your stitching for yourself?
As much as possible stays in the house! Whether it's designated as "mine" or some other family members, they still stay at home.
5. Do you stitch anything as part of exchanges or round robins?
I have not done an exchange in the traditional sense (you stitch for me, I'll stitch for you) but have been part of several round robins with mixed success. Currently I'm in a "Wee Beasties" RR based on the Dimples Designs bugs and am very interested to see what will make it's way back to me! I'm also doing an Ornament RR, but the twist with this is that all the stitching stays with me, only the supplies travel.
This was a productive stitching weekend (but not a picture-taking weekend). I am officially "caught up" on Chatelaine's Mini-Mystery-E only lacking the final part due to be released on June 15th for a completed piece. I also finished the Victoria Sampler March Needleroll that I'd been plugging away on at work for months. That officially puts me at *36* pieces in progress.
Next on the "Finishing Frenzy" is Chatelaine's Mini-Mandala #3. I was about 50% complete and after the weekend, a mere 25% remains (only 3 colors of "regular stitching", a few eyelets, b/s and beads). I'm expecting the next RR ornament to arrive this week, so that will have to be slotted in next.
1. Do you give away any of your finished stitching as gifts?
Occasionally. The wedding sampler I recently completed is a gift (waiting on the framer right now) and there are a couple babies that will be getting crocheted afghans this year.
My Granny, for the longest time, had more of my finished stitching hanging in her house than I did! That's no longer the case...but only recently!
2. Do you sell any of you finished stitching?
I haven't at this point....
3. Do you give any of your stitching away to charities?
I've done quilt squares for charity, but that's it.
4. Do you keep any of your stitching for yourself?
As much as possible stays in the house! Whether it's designated as "mine" or some other family members, they still stay at home.
5. Do you stitch anything as part of exchanges or round robins?
I have not done an exchange in the traditional sense (you stitch for me, I'll stitch for you) but have been part of several round robins with mixed success. Currently I'm in a "Wee Beasties" RR based on the Dimples Designs bugs and am very interested to see what will make it's way back to me! I'm also doing an Ornament RR, but the twist with this is that all the stitching stays with me, only the supplies travel.
This was a productive stitching weekend (but not a picture-taking weekend). I am officially "caught up" on Chatelaine's Mini-Mystery-E only lacking the final part due to be released on June 15th for a completed piece. I also finished the Victoria Sampler March Needleroll that I'd been plugging away on at work for months. That officially puts me at *36* pieces in progress.
Next on the "Finishing Frenzy" is Chatelaine's Mini-Mandala #3. I was about 50% complete and after the weekend, a mere 25% remains (only 3 colors of "regular stitching", a few eyelets, b/s and beads). I'm expecting the next RR ornament to arrive this week, so that will have to be slotted in next.
6/03/2004
Books and more books...
Your library is your portrait ~ Holbrook Jackson
If this is true, I cannot even imagine what I look like!
Today's post is book-oriented (if you haven't guessed by now). I've updated the "reading" list over on the left there to better reflect what is on the nightstand.
Magician's Guild by Trudi Canavan is top of the pile right now. It was recommended by a online buddy (Hi Carleen!) and I'm really enjoying this first book in The Black Magician Trilogy.
Dragons of a Fallen Sun by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman is still hanging around...I went great guns thru the first 3/4 of the book but got bogged down in the final 1/4. I did buy the next two in the trilogy, so I've really got to finish it!
Key of Knowledge by Nora Roberts is the sequel to Key of Light that I finished just last night (see below). Hey, a little light and toasty reading is good now and then!
In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O'Brien is still hanging around. It was a gift from a co-worker and I'm finding it very easy to pick up and put down :
As for recently finished -
Key of Light by Nora Roberts. Mix a little magic, a few strong women, sexy men and a quest to save three goddess souls and you get the "Key Trilogy" by Nora Roberts. Light and romantic.
Betrayal In Death by JD Robb. This is the twelfth book in the futuristic crime series by JD Robb aka Nora Roberts. I just can't get enough of Roarke!
In the To Read Next pile -
Well, in all honesty this pile would be a lot bigger if I finished going thru boxes in the garage! I'll include a couple that I *know* I have, but just haven't actually seen since the move (in no particular order):
Well of Darkness by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. I'm in the mood for "traditional" epic fantasy - elves, dwarves, humans, etc. Must the Lord of the Rings influence....
Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkein. You know, maybe if I found a CD-version I would have a better chance of making it thru this...
Kushiel's Avatar by Jacqueline Carey. Loved the first two books in this series!
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown. After reading DaVinci Code, I'm ready to try something else from Mr. Brown.
Fool's Puzzle by Earlene Fowler. I have managed to miss this cozy author for years!
Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters. I'm up to The Last Camel Died at Noon on this series.
Legends II edited by Robert Silverberg. Many of my favorite authors are in here! The short story format is perfect bedside reading....
Ok, I could go on all day so I think I better stop now! My portrait already looks like something painted by Picasso...LOL
If this is true, I cannot even imagine what I look like!
Today's post is book-oriented (if you haven't guessed by now). I've updated the "reading" list over on the left there to better reflect what is on the nightstand.
Magician's Guild by Trudi Canavan is top of the pile right now. It was recommended by a online buddy (Hi Carleen!) and I'm really enjoying this first book in The Black Magician Trilogy.
Dragons of a Fallen Sun by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman is still hanging around...I went great guns thru the first 3/4 of the book but got bogged down in the final 1/4. I did buy the next two in the trilogy, so I've really got to finish it!
Key of Knowledge by Nora Roberts is the sequel to Key of Light that I finished just last night (see below). Hey, a little light and toasty reading is good now and then!
In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O'Brien is still hanging around. It was a gift from a co-worker and I'm finding it very easy to pick up and put down :
As for recently finished -
Key of Light by Nora Roberts. Mix a little magic, a few strong women, sexy men and a quest to save three goddess souls and you get the "Key Trilogy" by Nora Roberts. Light and romantic.
Betrayal In Death by JD Robb. This is the twelfth book in the futuristic crime series by JD Robb aka Nora Roberts. I just can't get enough of Roarke!
In the To Read Next pile -
Well, in all honesty this pile would be a lot bigger if I finished going thru boxes in the garage! I'll include a couple that I *know* I have, but just haven't actually seen since the move (in no particular order):
Well of Darkness by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. I'm in the mood for "traditional" epic fantasy - elves, dwarves, humans, etc. Must the Lord of the Rings influence....
Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkein. You know, maybe if I found a CD-version I would have a better chance of making it thru this...
Kushiel's Avatar by Jacqueline Carey. Loved the first two books in this series!
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown. After reading DaVinci Code, I'm ready to try something else from Mr. Brown.
Fool's Puzzle by Earlene Fowler. I have managed to miss this cozy author for years!
Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters. I'm up to The Last Camel Died at Noon on this series.
Legends II edited by Robert Silverberg. Many of my favorite authors are in here! The short story format is perfect bedside reading....
Ok, I could go on all day so I think I better stop now! My portrait already looks like something painted by Picasso...LOL
6/02/2004
The Finishing Frenzy is about to begin!
This past weekend I knocked out the two RR's for this month and it officially puts me at the head of my planned finishing frenzy! The goal is to reduce the number of pieces in progress to under 30 (currently at 37).
So here's the list of pieces that are in the pile to be finished off and an approximate order:
Chatelaine's Mini Mystery-E (Another 4 or 5 hours to finish Part II and then I'll be able to jump in to Part III upon its release June 15th.)
Victoria Sampler's March Needleroll - again 4 or 5 hours tops
Chatelaine's Mini Mandala #3 - 10-15 hours
Just Nan's Witch Way - 10-15 hours
Textile Heritage Garden Bookmark - 10-15 hours
Stitchworks Snowman Bag - 10 hours
Victoria Sampler Butterfly Lace - 20-25 hours
TW's Castles by the Sea - 40 hours
TW's Apple Cloisonne Ornament - 30 hours
I'll have to sneak in another Ornament RR before month end, and then another Wee Beasties RR early July.
Now, the twist in all this is the model I'm expecting to receive soon. It has an October 1 deadline, so I'll be alternating weeks with it and weeks of finishing these smaller projects when it arrives.
I've also got a couple baby afghans to get finished, so I'll be working in a few hours a week on those - either a night between finishing one project and picking up the next on the list, or if I finish early in the evening, working the rest of the night on the afghan. Only two to do, though, and one baby isn't due until October! Lots of time!
And by the way....only *4* weeks of school left!!!!
So here's the list of pieces that are in the pile to be finished off and an approximate order:
Chatelaine's Mini Mystery-E (Another 4 or 5 hours to finish Part II and then I'll be able to jump in to Part III upon its release June 15th.)
Victoria Sampler's March Needleroll - again 4 or 5 hours tops
Chatelaine's Mini Mandala #3 - 10-15 hours
Just Nan's Witch Way - 10-15 hours
Textile Heritage Garden Bookmark - 10-15 hours
Stitchworks Snowman Bag - 10 hours
Victoria Sampler Butterfly Lace - 20-25 hours
TW's Castles by the Sea - 40 hours
TW's Apple Cloisonne Ornament - 30 hours
I'll have to sneak in another Ornament RR before month end, and then another Wee Beasties RR early July.
Now, the twist in all this is the model I'm expecting to receive soon. It has an October 1 deadline, so I'll be alternating weeks with it and weeks of finishing these smaller projects when it arrives.
I've also got a couple baby afghans to get finished, so I'll be working in a few hours a week on those - either a night between finishing one project and picking up the next on the list, or if I finish early in the evening, working the rest of the night on the afghan. Only two to do, though, and one baby isn't due until October! Lots of time!
And by the way....only *4* weeks of school left!!!!
6/01/2004
The Stitchers' Five!
1. What is your most treasured needlework possession?
I have two scissor fobs that were gifts from dear friends.
2. What is your greatest fear when doing needlework?
That I'll do *something* that will ruin all the work I have put in! A dropped highlighter, a miss-cut, a permanent marker with a mind of its own....
3. What is your greatest extravagance in needlework?
The stand that cost me $200? The $50 scissors? Or my propensity to buy fully kitted Chatelaine designs from European Cross Stitch?
4. What is your stitching motto?
"Enjoy the journey" (stolen shamelessly from Justyna!)
5. What do you dislike most about your needlework?
I've accumulated *so* much stash that I will never stitch...but can I bear to get rid of any of it? Nooooo.....
I have two scissor fobs that were gifts from dear friends.
2. What is your greatest fear when doing needlework?
That I'll do *something* that will ruin all the work I have put in! A dropped highlighter, a miss-cut, a permanent marker with a mind of its own....
3. What is your greatest extravagance in needlework?
The stand that cost me $200? The $50 scissors? Or my propensity to buy fully kitted Chatelaine designs from European Cross Stitch?
4. What is your stitching motto?
"Enjoy the journey" (stolen shamelessly from Justyna!)
5. What do you dislike most about your needlework?
I've accumulated *so* much stash that I will never stitch...but can I bear to get rid of any of it? Nooooo.....
5/28/2004
"Who gave you your name, and how did they choose it?"
Today's topic courtesy of Daydreaming on Paper (link over there on the left).
Ah yes. My name.
My name(s): Cheryl Annette (obviously my husband "gave" me my last name, so I won't include that in the discussion).
Chronologically is probably the best way to tell the story (and believe me, I've had plenty of practice telling it! That's the curse of using your middle name!). I was born in 1965, so that's when it all started...
My parents lived in Duluth, MN where my father was finishing up his tour of duty in the Air Force. Approximately six weeks before I was due (end of February), Mom travelled down to SW Michigan to be closer to *her* mother when she had me. Dad stayed up in Duluth, Mom's in New Buffalo...got that? It's important to the story ;)
Now, before she left, they discussed names and it was decided I was to be named for two members of the then-cultural-icon-group from the 50's "The Mickey Mouse Club" - Annette Funicello and Cheryl Holdridge. Ok, great...off Mom went.
So, the big day arrives and it's time to put pen to paper for the birth certificate and Mom thinks "Annette Cheryl" - but that doesn't exactly *trip* off the tongue, now does it? Evidently she took the fact that Dad mentioned "Annette" first meaning that's what he wanted me to use....so she makes "executive-mom-decision" to reverse the order to "Cheryl Annette" (sounds much better, eh?).
Now, we live in a pretty small town. New Buffalo, MI was not the "Chicago Vacation Destination" it is today. In fact, I was actually *born* a few miles away in Michigan City, IN as that was the closest hospital (and that's where the closest fast food and movie theatres were too..) My grandparents were department heads in the local high school, so we knew lots of the town residents. So it wasn't really any bother to put "Cheryl Annette, but she'll go by Annette" on the birth announcements. Most folks kinda already knew anyway.
When I started school, I don't recall having to correct the teachers on my name past the first day, if at all. Again, my grandparents were high school teachers and all grades were housed in the same building (which is now a condo building, but I digress). Heck, I spent early mornings before my kindergarten class started sitting in my Granny's first hour typing class...I could type before I could write in cursive...
However, this all changed when we moved to Albuquerque in the late 70's. I spent the first several days of each school year answering roll with "Here-but-I-go-by-my-middle-name-Annette." Invariably at least one teach each year would respond with "Oh! Were you named for Annette Funicello?" and of course, I'd have to answer "yes" and then they'd get lost on the "Cheryl" part..LOL.
So that's my name. I kinda like have a "legal" first name and then using my middle name for friends and family. When the phone rings and the question is "Is Cheryl there?" I know it isn't someone I know....and on more than one occasion I've responded with "No, she's not, can I take a message?" ;)
Of course, the irony of it all...I married a man that goes by his middle name as well...LOL
Ah yes. My name.
My name(s): Cheryl Annette (obviously my husband "gave" me my last name, so I won't include that in the discussion).
Chronologically is probably the best way to tell the story (and believe me, I've had plenty of practice telling it! That's the curse of using your middle name!). I was born in 1965, so that's when it all started...
My parents lived in Duluth, MN where my father was finishing up his tour of duty in the Air Force. Approximately six weeks before I was due (end of February), Mom travelled down to SW Michigan to be closer to *her* mother when she had me. Dad stayed up in Duluth, Mom's in New Buffalo...got that? It's important to the story ;)
Now, before she left, they discussed names and it was decided I was to be named for two members of the then-cultural-icon-group from the 50's "The Mickey Mouse Club" - Annette Funicello and Cheryl Holdridge. Ok, great...off Mom went.
So, the big day arrives and it's time to put pen to paper for the birth certificate and Mom thinks "Annette Cheryl" - but that doesn't exactly *trip* off the tongue, now does it? Evidently she took the fact that Dad mentioned "Annette" first meaning that's what he wanted me to use....so she makes "executive-mom-decision" to reverse the order to "Cheryl Annette" (sounds much better, eh?).
Now, we live in a pretty small town. New Buffalo, MI was not the "Chicago Vacation Destination" it is today. In fact, I was actually *born* a few miles away in Michigan City, IN as that was the closest hospital (and that's where the closest fast food and movie theatres were too..) My grandparents were department heads in the local high school, so we knew lots of the town residents. So it wasn't really any bother to put "Cheryl Annette, but she'll go by Annette" on the birth announcements. Most folks kinda already knew anyway
When I started school, I don't recall having to correct the teachers on my name past the first day, if at all. Again, my grandparents were high school teachers and all grades were housed in the same building (which is now a condo building, but I digress). Heck, I spent early mornings before my kindergarten class started sitting in my Granny's first hour typing class...I could type before I could write in cursive...
However, this all changed when we moved to Albuquerque in the late 70's. I spent the first several days of each school year answering roll with "Here-but-I-go-by-my-middle-name-Annette." Invariably at least one teach each year would respond with "Oh! Were you named for Annette Funicello?" and of course, I'd have to answer "yes" and then they'd get lost on the "Cheryl" part..LOL.
So that's my name. I kinda like have a "legal" first name and then using my middle name for friends and family. When the phone rings and the question is "Is Cheryl there?" I know it isn't someone I know....and on more than one occasion I've responded with "No, she's not, can I take a message?" ;)
Of course, the irony of it all...I married a man that goes by his middle name as well...LOL
5/27/2004
Where has the week gone?
1. How many have you framed on the wall?
12 in my house and another half dozen between my Mom and Granny
2. How many do you have finished in other ways?
2 Bellpulls, 4 needlerolls and various other soft simple finishes
3. What was the most expensive finishing?
I think TW's Egyptian Sampler; just over $200 with triple mats and an awesome frame
4. Have you finished anything yourself?
Yes The easy stuff! LOL (pillows and such)
5. Describe your favourite finished piece
Emie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes. It's got a gold undermat and triple mats on top: red/gold/green with a burnished gold frame. What *really* made it special was when I showed Emie herself during an evening class at my LNS. She loved it! Egyptian Sampler is a very close second
Otherwise, I've managed to start this month's ornament for the Ornament RR I'm participating in. It's probably 10-hours tops and then I'll be on to Dani's Wee Beasties RR (I know what I'm stitching and it's already kitted and waiting!). Then I should have a few days before the model job comes in to finish off Chatelaine's Mini-E and Victoria Sampler's March Needleroll.
Yes, I'm going to stitch a model. I stitched models several years ago when DD was small (and I lived in a *very* small town) essentially enough to never want to do another one especially if it was a Southwest design! But now I'm ready to do them again and I've made a few designer friends in all my various and sundry trips that when someone needs my stitching time, I'll give it to them. I don't intend to make a living at it, or abandon the projects I have started for me but it will be a nice way to help out some friends
Only 5 weeks left of school..I can't believe I've started my very last graduate class!
12 in my house and another half dozen between my Mom and Granny
2. How many do you have finished in other ways?
2 Bellpulls, 4 needlerolls and various other soft simple finishes
3. What was the most expensive finishing?
I think TW's Egyptian Sampler; just over $200 with triple mats and an awesome frame
4. Have you finished anything yourself?
Yes The easy stuff! LOL (pillows and such)
5. Describe your favourite finished piece
Emie Bishop's Warm Christmas Wishes. It's got a gold undermat and triple mats on top: red/gold/green with a burnished gold frame. What *really* made it special was when I showed Emie herself during an evening class at my LNS. She loved it! Egyptian Sampler is a very close second
Otherwise, I've managed to start this month's ornament for the Ornament RR I'm participating in. It's probably 10-hours tops and then I'll be on to Dani's Wee Beasties RR (I know what I'm stitching and it's already kitted and waiting!). Then I should have a few days before the model job comes in to finish off Chatelaine's Mini-E and Victoria Sampler's March Needleroll.
Yes, I'm going to stitch a model. I stitched models several years ago when DD was small (and I lived in a *very* small town) essentially enough to never want to do another one especially if it was a Southwest design! But now I'm ready to do them again and I've made a few designer friends in all my various and sundry trips that when someone needs my stitching time, I'll give it to them. I don't intend to make a living at it, or abandon the projects I have started for me but it will be a nice way to help out some friends
Only 5 weeks left of school..I can't believe I've started my very last graduate class!
5/23/2004
A Great Time Had By All...
I survived my vacation!
I'm tired, my credit card has officially melted and I'm in desparate need of a weekend to recover from my weekend, but all in all, it was a fantastic trip.
The flight Thursday evening was fairly uneventful (other than the child seated behind Mom that came close to bodily harm when he wouldn't quit kicking her seat - the "adult" with him finally got smart and moved him to another seat). Made it to San Jose, a familiar destination, though with construction at the airport it always seems like a new set of directions are needed to navigate around to find the exit!
The hotel, thankfully, was construction-zone free and still easy to find. We stayed one door down from our room last year and still only a few doors down from the Stitcher's Lounge (*perfect* placement, in my opinion!). We arrived late on Thursday and dinner was found at the deli (closed) at a nearby Safeway. Who would've thought that pre-made sushi and rolls would taste so good at 10:00 at night? LOL
We did splurge for room service on Friday morning and had a visit with Ann (WhizGidget) when she arrived at the hotel prior to the CATS Shopping Mart opening for the day. She delivered a package from my Secret Stitcher that was simply awesome: Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid, *fully kitted* along with 2 great bead tins (similar to the Lee Valley watchmaker cases) and a bit of chocolate all packaged in a gorgeous sheer green/purple bag. This was the way to start a stash-enhancement weekend!
We made it down to the Mart by 10 and perused the list of available Make-It, Take-It classes, with Ann and I finding one to take almost immediately. Liz Turner Diehl taught a very popular "Magnetic Bead Bracelet" class that involved stringing magnetic beads with regular sead beads to make a "wraparound" bracelet that is held on with the magnets - no clasp. I not only finished the bracelet during the class, but proudly wore it for the remainder of the weekend.
And then...the shopping started...
First stop, Dracolair for the new "Phoenix" design. A gorgeous piece of rich russets, golds and hints of blue and gold. Also the accessory pack for the upcoming "Medieval Tiles." While the chart wasn't available, Sarah was working on the model at the show and it is going to be stunning...heck it already *is* stunning. Sarah & Alex's new son, Aidan, was also a looker. Though, considering he's only 7 weeks old, he didn't have much to say!
Next stop was Laura at Enchanting Lair to discuss the recently completed Two Hearts Unite (she'll be changing the chart to include the "u" in surrounds for the next release). She was surprised but also glad I'd brought it up..lol. Also picked up two of her new designs: Be a Dragon and Highland Memories. Over the course of the weekend, I added a few more to the pile: Gargoyle the Kiss, Above the Trees, Lans the Guardian.
Laura also had the Picture this Plus fabric and I am now the proud owner of Monet (Lugana), Moonglow (Belfast) and Relic (Belfast). For Emerald Mermaid, we chose some DaVinci (Cashel) as the colors look stunning on the blue/purple/green/tan blend.
Fantasy Crafts, being right next door, had a long visit to catch up with Letha and meet her new associate, Ken. Along with three of the most amazing blackwork charts of Arthur, Guinevere, and Merlin by Tom Pudding, I indulged my Textile Heritage addiction with a couple small kits (St. Paul's Cathedral, Celtic Beast). FantaCat's recent release "Dragon Medallions" found its way into the pile as well.
Cross My Heart was across the way and while I resisted their beautiful charts (having already collected quite a number during previous CATS visits), I couldn't resist one of their stitching-themed t-shirts "Queen of Unfinished Projects" LOL
Marc Saastad (Silver Lining) had an abudant display of gorgeous models (as usual). I picked up his newest release, Melody Rose, and pre-ordered the Chateau piece in progress (I hestitate to post the name of the chateau as I'm sure I'll butcher the spelling...but it began with "C"). He had a model "in-progress" for drooling purposes.
A break for lunch was in order and two cars headed over to In-n-Out burger for lunch. Even though they are in business here in Arizona, an original double-double in California simply cannot be beat!
Back for more shopping and visiting in the Mart after lunch. I made sure to catch up with Carmen Wyant (Columbine) and Sandra Murray (Needle & Frame) as they are two of the most fun-loving ladies you can meet at CATS! I suppose that as this is my third year for attending these shows, I really can't be *too* surprised that some of the regular designers know me on sight...LOL.
Mom had a class that included a Longaberger basket (the stitching was on the liner and smalls to go inside) that afternoon, so K and I headed up to the Stitcher's Lounge to relax before dinner. Around 6:20 we headed to Pedro's for some tasty Mexican food with a group of TWBB Members and guests. Very tasty!
While the original intention was to return to the lounge for more stitching and chat, a few of us got waylaid in our room and ended up talking until 11:45 before we kicked a very tired Texan and a couple Californians out...LOL.
Saturday morning started a tad later and Mom, K and I managed to make it to the mart in time for another Make-It, Take-It class from Judy Odell. K had asked to take the "Royal Bookmark" which was a finishing class for a ribbon bookmark. We did finish our bookmarks in class (woohoo! 2 for 2 on finishing!) and Judy was so impressed with K's aptitude and demeanor that she gave her a second bookmark kit later that day (which K proceeded to work up that night in the lounge).
K and I spent the afternoon helping out Letha and Laura in their booths to provide them some much-needed breaks for lunch and such. I had a great time helping several ladies pick hand-dyed fabrics for designs and "steering" some more down the path to Textile Heritage addiction
.
Of course there's always time for a little more shopping and before leaving the mart I managed to stop by Judy Odell's and pick up two of her finishing books (Christmas Ornaments and Flat Folds) and hit Something Different to get Evans-Morris Band Sampler and Tiles 3 & 4. (I was on a shopping mission and couldn't resist adding a couple designs for myself). Last stop on Saturday was European Cross Stitch to ogle several Chatelaine models, but I kept some restraing and only picked up some linen banding for a baby piece.
Saturday night in the Stitcher's Lounge found many of the TWBB group sipping on Mexican Coke with smuggled mexican limons. There was also some mexican rum around, but that didn't make it into my glass! I made good progress on Mini-Mystery E and K finished off her second Royal Bookmark and started a Textile Heritage kit: Bagpipes (gotta start her early). We also had a visit from Carmen and her mother and learned that Lois (Carmen's mother) was teaching a "Sea Urchin Bracelet" the next day. She had her model on and it was a beautiful piece consisting of dozens of bead loops that made for a soft overall appearance. Ann and I immediately expressed interest but learning that the MITI was scheduled during our registered class, made arrangements to pick up the kit but skip the instruction. Essentially the bracelet is bead-knitting with some tiny knitting needles, perle cotton and sead beads.
Another late night. Back to the room to pack and get some sleep before Sunday's 8:00 class with Martha Schmidt (a fantastic teacher!).
I was up early and out of the room leaving a sleeping mother and daughter at 7:30. Class was good, but long. Thank heaven for a couple breaks (during which we ran out to get our bracelet kits). Afterward another quick turn thru the Mart to be sure we hadn't missed anything (K found yet another necklace at Fantasy Crafts and I picked up a Lord Melton laying tool) before heading out to grab lunch and head to the airport.
As I wrote when I started this "book" - I'm tired (it's now past 11:30), scared to touch my over-used credit card and SO glad I took Monday off for recovery! I had an *awesome* trip and am definitely going back next year! Of course, between now and then there's Hershey to look forward to...lol.
I'm tired, my credit card has officially melted and I'm in desparate need of a weekend to recover from my weekend, but all in all, it was a fantastic trip.
The flight Thursday evening was fairly uneventful (other than the child seated behind Mom that came close to bodily harm when he wouldn't quit kicking her seat - the "adult" with him finally got smart and moved him to another seat). Made it to San Jose, a familiar destination, though with construction at the airport it always seems like a new set of directions are needed to navigate around to find the exit!
The hotel, thankfully, was construction-zone free and still easy to find. We stayed one door down from our room last year and still only a few doors down from the Stitcher's Lounge (*perfect* placement, in my opinion!). We arrived late on Thursday and dinner was found at the deli (closed) at a nearby Safeway. Who would've thought that pre-made sushi and rolls would taste so good at 10:00 at night? LOL
We did splurge for room service on Friday morning and had a visit with Ann (WhizGidget) when she arrived at the hotel prior to the CATS Shopping Mart opening for the day. She delivered a package from my Secret Stitcher that was simply awesome: Mirabilia's Emerald Mermaid, *fully kitted* along with 2 great bead tins (similar to the Lee Valley watchmaker cases) and a bit of chocolate all packaged in a gorgeous sheer green/purple bag. This was the way to start a stash-enhancement weekend!
We made it down to the Mart by 10 and perused the list of available Make-It, Take-It classes, with Ann and I finding one to take almost immediately. Liz Turner Diehl taught a very popular "Magnetic Bead Bracelet" class that involved stringing magnetic beads with regular sead beads to make a "wraparound" bracelet that is held on with the magnets - no clasp. I not only finished the bracelet during the class, but proudly wore it for the remainder of the weekend.
And then...the shopping started...
First stop, Dracolair for the new "Phoenix" design. A gorgeous piece of rich russets, golds and hints of blue and gold. Also the accessory pack for the upcoming "Medieval Tiles." While the chart wasn't available, Sarah was working on the model at the show and it is going to be stunning...heck it already *is* stunning. Sarah & Alex's new son, Aidan, was also a looker. Though, considering he's only 7 weeks old, he didn't have much to say!
Next stop was Laura at Enchanting Lair to discuss the recently completed Two Hearts Unite (she'll be changing the chart to include the "u" in surrounds for the next release). She was surprised but also glad I'd brought it up..lol. Also picked up two of her new designs: Be a Dragon and Highland Memories. Over the course of the weekend, I added a few more to the pile: Gargoyle the Kiss, Above the Trees, Lans the Guardian.
Laura also had the Picture this Plus fabric and I am now the proud owner of Monet (Lugana), Moonglow (Belfast) and Relic (Belfast). For Emerald Mermaid, we chose some DaVinci (Cashel) as the colors look stunning on the blue/purple/green/tan blend.
Fantasy Crafts, being right next door, had a long visit to catch up with Letha and meet her new associate, Ken. Along with three of the most amazing blackwork charts of Arthur, Guinevere, and Merlin by Tom Pudding, I indulged my Textile Heritage addiction with a couple small kits (St. Paul's Cathedral, Celtic Beast). FantaCat's recent release "Dragon Medallions" found its way into the pile as well.
Cross My Heart was across the way and while I resisted their beautiful charts (having already collected quite a number during previous CATS visits), I couldn't resist one of their stitching-themed t-shirts "Queen of Unfinished Projects" LOL
Marc Saastad (Silver Lining) had an abudant display of gorgeous models (as usual). I picked up his newest release, Melody Rose, and pre-ordered the Chateau piece in progress (I hestitate to post the name of the chateau as I'm sure I'll butcher the spelling...but it began with "C"). He had a model "in-progress" for drooling purposes.
A break for lunch was in order and two cars headed over to In-n-Out burger for lunch. Even though they are in business here in Arizona, an original double-double in California simply cannot be beat!
Back for more shopping and visiting in the Mart after lunch. I made sure to catch up with Carmen Wyant (Columbine) and Sandra Murray (Needle & Frame) as they are two of the most fun-loving ladies you can meet at CATS! I suppose that as this is my third year for attending these shows, I really can't be *too* surprised that some of the regular designers know me on sight...LOL.
Mom had a class that included a Longaberger basket (the stitching was on the liner and smalls to go inside) that afternoon, so K and I headed up to the Stitcher's Lounge to relax before dinner. Around 6:20 we headed to Pedro's for some tasty Mexican food with a group of TWBB Members and guests. Very tasty!
While the original intention was to return to the lounge for more stitching and chat, a few of us got waylaid in our room and ended up talking until 11:45 before we kicked a very tired Texan and a couple Californians out...LOL.
Saturday morning started a tad later and Mom, K and I managed to make it to the mart in time for another Make-It, Take-It class from Judy Odell. K had asked to take the "Royal Bookmark" which was a finishing class for a ribbon bookmark. We did finish our bookmarks in class (woohoo! 2 for 2 on finishing!) and Judy was so impressed with K's aptitude and demeanor that she gave her a second bookmark kit later that day (which K proceeded to work up that night in the lounge).
K and I spent the afternoon helping out Letha and Laura in their booths to provide them some much-needed breaks for lunch and such. I had a great time helping several ladies pick hand-dyed fabrics for designs and "steering" some more down the path to Textile Heritage addiction
.
Of course there's always time for a little more shopping and before leaving the mart I managed to stop by Judy Odell's and pick up two of her finishing books (Christmas Ornaments and Flat Folds) and hit Something Different to get Evans-Morris Band Sampler and Tiles 3 & 4. (I was on a shopping mission and couldn't resist adding a couple designs for myself). Last stop on Saturday was European Cross Stitch to ogle several Chatelaine models, but I kept some restraing and only picked up some linen banding for a baby piece.
Saturday night in the Stitcher's Lounge found many of the TWBB group sipping on Mexican Coke with smuggled mexican limons. There was also some mexican rum around, but that didn't make it into my glass! I made good progress on Mini-Mystery E and K finished off her second Royal Bookmark and started a Textile Heritage kit: Bagpipes (gotta start her early). We also had a visit from Carmen and her mother and learned that Lois (Carmen's mother) was teaching a "Sea Urchin Bracelet" the next day. She had her model on and it was a beautiful piece consisting of dozens of bead loops that made for a soft overall appearance. Ann and I immediately expressed interest but learning that the MITI was scheduled during our registered class, made arrangements to pick up the kit but skip the instruction. Essentially the bracelet is bead-knitting with some tiny knitting needles, perle cotton and sead beads.
Another late night. Back to the room to pack and get some sleep before Sunday's 8:00 class with Martha Schmidt (a fantastic teacher!).
I was up early and out of the room leaving a sleeping mother and daughter at 7:30. Class was good, but long. Thank heaven for a couple breaks (during which we ran out to get our bracelet kits). Afterward another quick turn thru the Mart to be sure we hadn't missed anything (K found yet another necklace at Fantasy Crafts and I picked up a Lord Melton laying tool) before heading out to grab lunch and head to the airport.
As I wrote when I started this "book" - I'm tired (it's now past 11:30), scared to touch my over-used credit card and SO glad I took Monday off for recovery! I had an *awesome* trip and am definitely going back next year! Of course, between now and then there's Hershey to look forward to...lol.
5/19/2004
Of haircuts and vacation plans...
This weekend I'm off to Santa Clara for CATS.
I'll be going with my mother and daughter again this year and a good time should be had by all. While I'm the only one taking a "registered" class (Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches II), I fully expect Mom and Kylie to make good use of the Make-It-Take-It schedule. I'm sure I'll find one or two myself. I spotted a reference to a Liz Turner Diehl class held in Dallas that I'm hoping she repeats here....
Another big perk for the trip is getting together with northern Californa BB members and even a few Texas ones that are making the CATS pilgrimmage this year. I admit that one of my favorite things is spending time in the Stitcher's Lounge chatting with folks or grabbing lunch or dinner with a couple. It's so different from my "normal everyday" life that it makes the vacation special.
I don't have a huge shopping list this year (unlike previous trips) but I will be looking for new releases from Dimples, Dracolair and Silver Lining. After helping Maureen Appleton pack up after Hershey CATS last year, I found myself thinking back to many of her spectacular models (I got a REAL up close and personal look at them!) and will probably add a couple to my stash :) The Picture this Plus booth is going to be taking a chunk of my budget as well....
Yes, I'm really looking forward to this orgy of stash shopping and spending time with my BB friends from California (and Texas!).
In preparation of this....I "made an appointment" for a haircut this weekend. See, my husband cuts my hair. He went to cosmetology school in a "former life" and spent a few years working in a nice salon in Tennessee. He cuts my hair and the kids hair and occasionally Mom and Granny's as well.
The nice thing about the spouse doing the haircut: I don't have to be *too* specific in my request because he already knows the basic requirements (long enough to put behind my ears and must have bangs) and he's been pretty much cutting the same basic style for a couple years now (a chin-length bob with a few layers around the face to make it stay back).
The bad thing about the spouse doing the haircut: I don't take the time to be specific in my request.....
Sunday night after dinner I wet down my hair (I'd washed it a few hours earlier), grab a chair and head out to the garage (easier to sweep up out there). Sit down, put the glasses aside and close my eyes. There are no mirrors, ya see. I'm blind without my glasses...so I just close my eyes.
He starts cutting....and cutting....and cutting. I remark on this. "You're cutting an awful lot," I say. "Just making it lighter for summer," he says.
Oh yeah. It's light all right. It's GONE! I don't have to worry about putting it behind my ears...there's NOTHING THERE! I have a super short haircut! NOT what I wanted! Not what I expected!
Oh, don't get me wrong...it looks quite good. He did an excellent job shaping and layering it. I've had more comments on this cut than on any in the past months (of course, the fact that it's a drastic change *could* be part of the reason). But it's definitely taking some getting used to.
Heck, I can skip the blow-dry in the morning...towel-dry, comb and spritz with hairspray and I'm ready to go.
Men. Gotta love 'em...cause you can't *kill* them....
I'll be going with my mother and daughter again this year and a good time should be had by all. While I'm the only one taking a "registered" class (Sampler of Unpublished Insertion Stitches II), I fully expect Mom and Kylie to make good use of the Make-It-Take-It schedule. I'm sure I'll find one or two myself. I spotted a reference to a Liz Turner Diehl class held in Dallas that I'm hoping she repeats here....
Another big perk for the trip is getting together with northern Californa BB members and even a few Texas ones that are making the CATS pilgrimmage this year. I admit that one of my favorite things is spending time in the Stitcher's Lounge chatting with folks or grabbing lunch or dinner with a couple. It's so different from my "normal everyday" life that it makes the vacation special.
I don't have a huge shopping list this year (unlike previous trips) but I will be looking for new releases from Dimples, Dracolair and Silver Lining. After helping Maureen Appleton pack up after Hershey CATS last year, I found myself thinking back to many of her spectacular models (I got a REAL up close and personal look at them!) and will probably add a couple to my stash :) The Picture this Plus booth is going to be taking a chunk of my budget as well....
Yes, I'm really looking forward to this orgy of stash shopping and spending time with my BB friends from California (and Texas!).
In preparation of this....I "made an appointment" for a haircut this weekend. See, my husband cuts my hair. He went to cosmetology school in a "former life" and spent a few years working in a nice salon in Tennessee. He cuts my hair and the kids hair and occasionally Mom and Granny's as well.
The nice thing about the spouse doing the haircut: I don't have to be *too* specific in my request because he already knows the basic requirements (long enough to put behind my ears and must have bangs) and he's been pretty much cutting the same basic style for a couple years now (a chin-length bob with a few layers around the face to make it stay back).
The bad thing about the spouse doing the haircut: I don't take the time to be specific in my request.....
Sunday night after dinner I wet down my hair (I'd washed it a few hours earlier), grab a chair and head out to the garage (easier to sweep up out there). Sit down, put the glasses aside and close my eyes. There are no mirrors, ya see. I'm blind without my glasses...so I just close my eyes.
He starts cutting....and cutting....and cutting. I remark on this. "You're cutting an awful lot," I say. "Just making it lighter for summer," he says.
Oh yeah. It's light all right. It's GONE! I don't have to worry about putting it behind my ears...there's NOTHING THERE! I have a super short haircut! NOT what I wanted! Not what I expected!
Oh, don't get me wrong...it looks quite good. He did an excellent job shaping and layering it. I've had more comments on this cut than on any in the past months (of course, the fact that it's a drastic change *could* be part of the reason). But it's definitely taking some getting used to.
Heck, I can skip the blow-dry in the morning...towel-dry, comb and spritz with hairspray and I'm ready to go.
Men. Gotta love 'em...cause you can't *kill* them....
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