One Yarn After Another

And when I got there the cupboards were bare . . .

2012-02-01T15:00:00.002-07:00

Do you ever let that happen? I've cleaned out the fridge of all the jars of stuff that are outdated, same with the pantry. Went through the freezer as well. Now it doesn't look like there's anything to eat around here. Well, it's more than that -- there really is nothing to eat around here. I did scratch together the ingredients to make a crab casserole but to be honest, it just doesn't sound that good to me. Were it with fresh crab instead of canned . . . I'd just have the crab!!!! ;-)

On The Crochet Front

Still nothing much going on. I did join a afghan square swap group on Ravelry. The colors are four shades of blue and one of lime green. It seems to me that I said over a year ago I wasn't going to do these anymore. I thought maybe it might motivate me to get busy on some crocheting but you know what? In the end I know it means I have to put them all together. UGH! I better drop out before groups are assigned. I'm not sure I'm up to it.

What I really really really want to do is design something new in Tunisian crochet. I just can't think of what though. Maybe I should just design some squares for the swap? Hmmmm, now there's a thought.

First, however, I'm going to crochet Debi's beautiful Valentine doily. I'm headed into the bowels of hell (formerly known as the storage room) to find me some yummy pink or red yarn. If you hear on the news that a woman from Utah is missing after going into her basement storage room, you'll know it was me. Wish me luck!?

2012-01-31T10:58:00.001-07:00

I have to admit that I haven't accomplished a doggone thing the last few days. I started three different projects and ended up either 1) making a mistake or 2) didn't like them so had to frog them. Last night I just set it all aside and said

To Heck With It!

I'm just stumped. There are so many things on my to-do list and as I go down them I just lose all hope and interest. I do have to tell you, however, that I am totally stoked about losing

54 Pounds!

I'm at the point now that I really do need to spend some time doing a bit of clothes shopping as the seat of my pants is hanging down close to my knees. The Hubster says it looks like I've messed my pants and would I please do some shopping. I put on my one and only dress to go to church on Sunday and realized I had a problem. Usually it's about 6" up off the floor and on Sunday is was clear to the floor. Had I been able, I'd have been jumping up and down but was afraid I'd fall on my butt for sure if I tried it. It was a wonderful feeling.

My brother was taken out of rehab the day after he got there and put in isolation with MRSA (another infection). He's still there and very discouraged. I feel so bad for him. I think we might have to go to Idaho and visit him. I did send flowers and I have tried to call but haven't been successful in reaching him. It's now been over a month since he was admitted. I can certainly understand him being discouraged as I am discouraged for him.

A Letter from Martha Stewart

2012-01-30T12:38:00.002-07:00

Monday, 9:00 a.m.

Hi Loretta,

This perfectly delightful note is being sent on paper I made myself to tell you what I have been up to. Since it snowed last night, I got up early and made a sled with old barn wood and a glue gun. I handpainted it in gold leaf, got out my loom, and made a blanket in peaches and mauves. Then to make the sled complete, I made a white horse to pull it from DNA that I just had sitting around in my craft room.

By then, it was time to start making the place mats and napkins for my 20 breakfast guests. I'm serving the old standard Stewart twelve-course breakfast, but I'll let you in on a little secret: I didn't have time to make the table and chairs this morning, so I used the ones I had on hand. Before I moved the table into the dining room, I decided to add just a touch of the holidays. So, I repainted the room in pinks and stenciled gold stars on the ceiling. Then, while the homemade bread was rising, I took antique candle molds and made the dishes (exactly the same shade of pink) to use for breakfast. These were made from Hungarian clay, which you can get in almost any Hungarian craft store.

Well, I must run. I need to finish the buttonholes on the dress I'm wearing for breakfast. I'll get out the sled and drive this note to the post office as soon as the glue dries on the envelope I'll be making. Hope my breakfast guests don't stay too long - I have 40,000 cranberries to string with bay leaves before my speaking engagement at noon. It's a good thing.

Love,
Martha Stewart

P. S. When I made the ribbon for this typewriter, I used 1/8-inch gold guaze. I soaked the guaze in a mixture of white grapes and blackberries which I grew, picked, and crushed last week just for fun.

source: http://www.jokebuddha.com/Craft#ixzz1kyJRSDuP

I'm going to make this . . . I hope

2012-01-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

Carol Wolf at Wolf Crochet has designed yet another great pattern. It's called the "Erika Neck Cozy." I have crocheted a few of her patterns and they are always really well written. If you haven't been to her blog, be sure and check it out. I think I might use some of that new KnitPicks yarn I got a week or two ago and make a couple of these as gifts for ladies in the neighborhood. I also really love her Neckwarmer Vest. The only reason I haven't already made it is that it's not in my size.

Have you ever crocheted with fabric? I found this cute Easter Basket pattern on Ravelry with a link to her blog (Me and Madeline). It's free! And so cute. I might have to give it a try too.

I think this would be cute on the coffee table at Easter filled with treats.

Molly has posted step-by-step instructions on how to cut the fabric, sew the ends together and crochet it. While there be sure and check out her other tutorials and patterns.

Today's Chuckle

2012-01-26T10:36:00.001-07:00

Hahahahahaha! Don't you just love Maxine? I tell ya, she totally cracks me up -- a woman after my own heart.

Debi's Lovely Doily

2012-01-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

Debi, at Hooks & Yarns, posted a pattern for sale last week. It used plastic heart bracelets but I couldn't find any so I made it with a round one. Isn't it lovely?

A very, very sweet lady sent me a couple of plastic hearts so now I can make the correct pattern. This was so fun and so easy. You should definitely buy the pattern. It's less than $2. When I make the one with the heart I am going to add some rows to it. Our table is BIG and needs something a bit larger in the center. I was pleased that this held a 3" candle perfectly.

I'm testing a top pattern for Amy Depew. She used Vanna's Choice Glamour to make hers but I couldn't find it at Michael's, Hobby Lobby or WalMart so I am using Red Heart Sparkle. I haven't had the chance to use the Glamour. Has anyone else?

Finished

2012-01-24T13:38:00.001-07:00

I used Vanna's Choice yarn and just made up the pattern. It's a nice size and should last the new little one for quite some time. I'm glad to have it finished so I can move on to something else. I will admit, however, that the Tunisian stitches I used: 3 tss, yo, skip 1, 3 tss, etc. was very soothing and easy to do. Great project for watching television.

We have a lot of snow. Over the past two days we have received about 14" in our front yard. The sun is kind of shining though and when I went to (a new) crochet group this morning the roads were a bit slippery. When I left they were wet but not icy.

So, here's a funny. I go to the nail salon yesterday to get my nails filled. I stop at Cutler's to bring home some egg salad and cookies. I get home and Tracee says to me, "Bev, do you realize you have your shirt on wrong side out?" Good grief! I was so mortified. Now I have to change nail salons cuz I don't think I can show my face there again. Or maybe I could be "that really weird old lady" and wear my shirt wrong side out again next time?? Who knows, they might think I'm kind of a sad sack and give me a discount? (Not likely.)

Today's chuckle . . .

2012-01-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

The Baby Boy Blanket

2012-01-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

Only about 4" left to crochet and the body of this baby blanket will be finished. I'm not sure what type of edging to put on it but I'm thinking something with both colors in it.

I made a really good beef stew for dinner last night. It's hard to ruin beef stew though, isn't it? There's so many different recipes. I loved the horseradish in it. You could hardly tell it was there. Just added a bit of zip is all.

1 1/2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
2 (14.5 ounce) cans Italian-style diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can beef broth
4 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoons Dijon-style prepared mustard

Happiness Is . . .

2012-01-20T10:16:00.002-07:00

#1: My brother has been moved to the rehab floor and appears to finally be on his way to getting out of the hospital. They are estimating two more weeks and then probably home. It's been such a long haul for him and I'm so glad he's doing better.

#2: A sweet husband that never complains about how lazy I am or how much money I spend. I've been doing some serious yarn shopping the last week or two and he hasn't said a single word. Isn't he a sweetheart?

#3: A sweet oldest son. Our garage door has been broken since the nasty storm and you have to manually pick it up and fight with the now defunct garage door opener. Yesterday he was going to be in Salt Lake all day and left me a sweet note saying he had pulled my car out for me "just in case" I needed it. Most of all I loved the signature, "Love you, Mom. Brett." Is it any wonder I love my kids so much?!

#4: An online friend, Sheila from Massachusetts, sent me a "Care" package yesterday. It was full of protein bars, protein shake and soup mixes, etc. I was just overwhelmed with gratitude that someone who hasn't ever even met my ugly mug would do something so kind.

#5: Online friends. You bring me up when I am down and you have no idea how much I gain from reading all your blogs.

As you might remember, I have a husband known for putting weird things on his head like wooden bowls, grandkids' Halloween costumes, etc. For Christmas our daughter gave him a new hat. Here's another to add to the collection of "what's next for dad's head."

He refuses to wear it to work -- spoiled sport.

Stress Ain't Healthy!

2012-01-19T09:43:00.001-07:00

Web M.D. says that if stress happens too often or lasts too long, it can have bad effects. It can be linked to headaches, an upset stomach, back pain, and trouble sleeping. It can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off disease. If you already have a health problem, stress may make it worse. It can make you moody, tense, or depressed. Your relationships may suffer, and you may not do well at work or school.

I might add that you also don't do well at home. Right now I am a total ball of stress. I feel like I am rolling down a hill and I just keep going faster and faster.

My oldest son and his girlfriend (and her two daughters) are still living with us. Finally the girlfriend does have a part-time job (starting today) but my son is still looking for work. It was enough stress just to have them here but with them not working, I am about to lose my ever-lovin' mind. I have often told my mother that she has a Ph.D. in Worrying. I must have a Master's in it cuz I'm right behind her. On one hand I feel very blessed that we have room for them and can help them out but on the other hand, it's very stressful for me. The two girls really stress me out and when all five of the kids are here every other weekend I get seriously stressed. When I get stressed about it then I feel guilty for being stressed. Its just a never ending cycle for me. I don't know why I get so stressed. On one hand I love having them here. How can you not? But I worry about EVERY little thing. Will they get jobs? Are the girls doing well in school? Even whose turn is it to make dinner, Etc., etc. See, I'm just a worry-wart. So today I am out on the web looking for ways to work it out -- without mind-boggling medications. Here's what I am going to do:

I'm moving to Antarctica. Anyone want to go with me? I don't think a little ice hut would be too expensive. You, me and the penquins? Are they noisy?

I'm not happy with it but I'll show it to you anyway

2012-01-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

It was so dark and dreary yesterday but just bright enough that if I used the flash it was too bright and if I didn't it was too dark. I'm really not happy with the sweater but it fit my friends 4-year-old. However, it's perfect measurements from a 2-year-old's jacket. I do think it is prettier in real life than in the pictures and it was hard to get the daughter to let me have it back. I needed to finish the embellishments. I'll get a picture of her in it if I take it back.

I've started on the baby blanket for the little boy my DIL's twin sister is having. Today I found out she has another sister due to the first part of FEBRUARY. Thank goodness I have this little outfit will in my DONE BIN.

Debi, over at www.hooksandyarns.blogspot.com has a really cute blanket called Ripples & Shells. I think I want to make that next (while Michael's is having such a good yarn sale). I've got to finish this one first though for the baby boy:

Hopefully I can get a better picture when the sun comes out. The colors are Colonial Blue and its veriagated partner.

2012-01-17T11:24:00.004-07:00

50 pounds!

This week I enjoyed fresh shrimp with cocktail sauce. Believe me, I thought I had died and gone to heaven and 3 of them were the perfect amount.

I also enjoyed stuffed peppers. They were stuffed with ground beef but next time I think I'll try these:

Tuna Stuffed Peppers

1 pouch light tuna in water

6 peppers, red and green (I love the red ones best)

1 cup chopped onions

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp oregano

1 tsp parsley

1-1/4 cups cooked brown rice

salt and pepper

1 cup cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350F. Cut tops off the peppers and clean out interiors. Slice the top of the pepper around the stem and discard stem (although they are on in this picture). Cut and dice the bits of pepper from around the top and cook with the onions, etc.Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Stir in onions, garlic and diced pepper and cook until onions and peppers are soft, about 5 minutes. Add oregano, parsley, salt and pepper, tuna and rice. Mix to blend well. Stuff peppers with mixture. Place in 8x8 square baking dish. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Top with cheese and bake 5 additional minutes to melt the cheese.

Getting there . . .

2012-01-15T19:49:00.002-07:00

I'm terribly worried about the sleeves. They look really long but they measure the same as for another toddler sweater (both body and sleeves). Tuesday I will take it to my friend's house and try it on her little girl. Still needs buttons and embellishments.

My KnitPicks Order Finally Arrived ! !

2012-01-15T10:43:00.003-07:00

I don't know about you, but I absolutely hate it when it takes something so long to arrive that you forget what all you even ordered. It finally arrived and in addition to this lovely new Brava yarn (worsted weight and bulky weight and $2.99 for a 100g ball-291 yds.):

It's really very nice yarn. I also purchased some wooden shawl pins just to have on hand. KnitPicks has them for a very reasonable price ($6.40 each).

and what I totally forgot about:

blocking pins and a handy-dandy crochet hook/needle set. The hooks are double-ended with a different size hook on each end and has two nice tapestry needles as well. (While they are primarily for picking up stitches, won't they be handy in case you're working on a project and need to change hooks? They are going right in my purse.) Both are in very nice carrying cases. The double-ended hooks were $4.99 and the blocking pins were $2.99. Most of the time I think KnitPicks' products are very reasonable.

I've been working on the Ayasha jacket and am about half finished with the last sleeve. I did go with the yellow and orange. Hopefully I can finish up the sleeve today and get started on the button band and collar. I will try and post a picture of it tomorrow. I'm worried the sleeves are too long. On Tuesday I plan to take it to a friend's house and try it on her daughter. It will give me a good idea of what size it really is.

Quite a gloomy day here. We are getting ready for more snow off and on this next week. As much as I don't like it in the valley, we are WAY behind on our water needs so I'm hoping it will actually snow. I know -- you heard it here. Bev is asking for snow. (Is the world coming to an end?????)

P.S. Thank you, Debi. It's all your fault that I went to Michael's and bought myself a new basket and a bunch of yarn -- and I didn't have a gift card like YOU. ;-)

I am SO sorry.

2012-01-12T22:34:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my earlier whining. I have removed the post and sincerely hope that those of you that read it will forgive me for using this forum to bitch and moan. (To those of you that commented -- THANK YOU! You made me feel so much better -- but still I should have just kept my mouth shut.)

Edited to Add: Oh, you guys made me cry. Thank you for your sweet comments. It's just that I don't ever want my blog to be a place of venting and anger. No one wants to read that and I'd hate it if someone got the wrong impression. I try to be a positive person. One that people like being around -- not one that is negative and snarky. It doesn't do me or anyone else any good. You are all the best!

Guess what has gone missing??????

2012-01-12T13:47:00.003-07:00

47 pounds

In my dreams I look like that (and I might have at 16).

Progress on the Ayasha Sweater

2012-01-11T09:43:00.002-07:00

So far the back is done and one panel for the front. I'm using Vanna's Choice in Duckie. I want to do the other panel and one sleeve in either white or orange and then do some type of embellishments to make it kind of Easter-looking. What do you think? The original pattern makes up for an infant but using the aran weight it's coming out about an 18-month, I think.

I have only done a few more rows on the shawl. This yarn is really full of bits of fluff that absolutely GET UP MY NOSE.

I have to tell you a funny. As you know, I use canes to walk around with and so I don't have hands free to tote a lot of stuff. I put a smallish water bottle in my stretchy-knit pants pocket yesterday and I had to drop one of my canes to catch them. My pants didn't actually fall off but they slid down about 4". On one hand I was so embarrassed and on the other I was thrilled. Who would get excited that their pants nearly fell down? ME, that's who.

You always make me smile

2012-01-10T13:23:00.004-07:00

I can't thank you enough for your words of encouragement and suggestions. Golly sakes alive, it's awesome to have such caring and wonderful friends. I wish we all lived near each other. Think of the fun we would have together.

My son and his wife gave me a gift certificate to a yarn shop in Salt Lake City. Since I was there yesterday for a doctor's appointment, I decided to stop by Blazing Needles. I hadn't been there before. It's a darling little house converted into a yarn shop and they have a comfy room in the back where people can come by for classes or just have a quiet place to knit. I purchased two skeins of this beautiful yarn. I haven't had any of it before -- it's sock yarn but I'm thinking it would make a beautiful shawl or scarf. In the front they have huge knitting needles stuck in the grass. Wish I had thought to take a picture of it. It was obvious to me that it would be best not to say you crocheted because there was not ONE thing in there for crocheters. No hooks, no books, nothing. I like shops that feel welcoming to all yarn crafters, don't you?

As part of a group on Ravelry (Vanna's Choice), I also started a little sweater.

It's with Vanna's Choice Baby in the color Duckie. It's using my Ayasha Tunisian Crochet pattern. Since it's worsted weight it's probably going to fit an 18 to 24-month toddler rather than a baby. So far it's working up really nice.

My other yarn hasn't arrived yet. I'm getting EXCITED!

Protein Shakes, Yarn and a Chuckle

2012-01-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here drinking a strawberry protein shake. I wish I liked them better. I have tried them with blended fruit, warm, cold, in milk, in water and even unflavored in my food. The unflavored is really the most versatile and truly is unflavored. I stirred some in my sugar-free pudding last night and while it took a lot of stirring to get it blended in, it wasn't too bad. (Wasn't too good either but oh well.) I have to get in at least 60 grams of protein a day. When you consider that a large egg only contains 6 grams, a hamburger patty contains 28 and a steak 42 grams (most cuts of meat 7 grams of protein per ounce), protein shakes are really the best way to get your protein -- especially if your tummy is now the size of a quarter (or so it seems). A 6-oz. can of tuna however contains 40 grams of protein. Mixed with a little cottage cheese and you'd have more than half your daily intake (if you could really eat that much) but that amount is about 3 meals worth. I'll just continue to look for ways to drink it. The Hubster says to "Don't think about it. Just drink it and be done with it." I guess he's right.

I have been on a yarn binge. I think it's because I'm trying to get motivated. That's hard to do when you've been working out of your stash for a while and there's nothing left there to really excite you. I have yarn to make afghans but that just seems so overwhelming right now. I really don't want a big project. I started on the baby afghan and didn't like it at all so took it all out. Can't wait for it to start coming so I can share it with you.

Today's Chuckle:

DIETER'S PSALM

Strict is my diet. I must not want.
It maketh me to lie down at night hungry.
It leadeth me past the confectioners.
It trieth my willpower.
It leadeth me in the paths of alteration
      for my figure's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the aisles
      of the pastry department, I will
      buy no sweetrolls for they are
      fattening.
The cakes and the pies, they tempt me.
Before me is a table set with green beans
      and lettuce.
I filleth my stomach with liquids,
My day's quota runneth over.
      Surely calorie and weight charts will
follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the fear of scales forever.

Winter is finally here?

2012-01-07T10:22:00.002-07:00

This is Ken and Austyn out shoveling snow this morning. There was probably 4" when we woke up and it's still coming down. We haven't had as much snow this year as usual. We probably need a lot more -- but I'd like it to snow in the mountains at the ski resorts rather than down here.

I'm going to work on my shawl today. Seems like a good day to stay indoors. Tonight is our family belated Christmas dinner. Can't wait!!!!

Have a great day everyone!

Change For A Dollar Movie

2012-01-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Change For A Dollar Movie: Is he asking for Change, or is he asking for CHANGE? Follow a man as he affects multiple peoples' lives with just one dollar, proving that it doesn't take much to be the change in someone's life. Written and directed by Sharon Wright.

Mulberry Shawl Progress

2012-01-05T10:20:00.003-07:00

Not much huh? The pattern I am using can be found on Ravelry. It's called 12 Shawls in 2012: January -- New Beginnings Shawl. The pattern is a very reasonable $1.99.

I think it will be very pretty. The yarn is not as brown as it appears in the photo. Some colors just do not photograph well, do they? I got waylaid working on some hats for my step-granddaughter. I need to go out today and find a cute silky scarf to go with one of them -- or look on line. I found some pretty ones on eBay a few years ago that worked really well. I'll be sure and post it when I get it finished.

No news yet this morning on my brother but last night my mother said that they expect him to be in ICU for another 4-5 days and then will send him to rehab. That's really good news and very optimistic in my eyes.

2012-01-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

My brother is still critical this morning. They have decided it's his dialysis port that has become infected and caused him to be septic. The other problem is that they cannot get his blood sugar up. I'm still very worried about him.

A friend sent me the link to this video this morning and I thought I would share it with you. As many of you know, David Archuleta is from Utah. I think this is a beautiful song.

Thank you!

2012-01-03T20:44:00.002-07:00

Thank you all for your prayers in my brother's and SIL's behalf. Our news tonight is that my brother has stabilized somewhat and they are treating his infection with specific antibiotics to treat his septic condition. He is still very ill but doing much better. Once again, thank you. I absolutely believe in the power of prayer and know that they are helping him greatly.

I made a yummy egg casserole tonight. While I was only able to eat a tiny bit of it, I thought it was delicious. Here's the recipe:

Charleston Breakfast Casserole

12 slices bacon (I used six)
1/4 cup butter, melted
3 cups croutons (I bought them at Smith's bakery. They were just slices of regular bread without seasoning)
2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
6 eggs
1-3/4 cups milk
Several sliced green onions (or 1 bell pepper, any color, diced)
1 tbsp. prepared mustard
salt and pepper to taste

Place bacon in a large deep skill and cook over medium high heat until evently brown. Drain, crumble and set aside (or be lazy like me and use precooked bacon). Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Melt butter in the microwave and spray a 9x12" baking dish with vegetable spray. Place croutons on the bottom of the dish and drizzle with melted butter. Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese. Crack the eggs and whisk to break up the yolks. Add the milk, peppers or onions, mustard, salt, pepper and beat until well-combined. Pour over the croutons and cheese and sprinkle with crumbled bacon.

Bake for 40 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to stand 10 minutes before serving.

You will not believe it but you cannot tell there is even bread in the bottom. The eggs are light and fluffy and everyone loved it. Even the picky eaters.

Yummy Yarn

2012-01-03T11:29:00.001-07:00

Have you ever purchased yarn from Elann? Their yarn is VERY reasonably priced. A few days ago I received an email from them saying they were having a sale (well what yarn place isn't have a sale?) so I popped on over to see what they had available. I found this lovely Mulberry colored Limited Edition Tweed (made in Italy - 65% wool, 25% cotton, 10% Nylon) yarn that I think will make a lovely shawl or wrap of some kind.

If you haven't ever purchased yarn from them, you really should as their customer service is excellent. I received this in 3 days. (Dare I sneak back and shop some more????)

We did go to Idaho and see my mom. She is doing GREAT! We stopped to see The Hubster's sister who has developed some sort of blood disorder and is seriously ill. She is 77 years old. The Hubster's brothers are also experiencing some health issues so there were visits and phone calls to them as well. My own brother, who lives about a quarter-mile from my mother is now on dialysis. He goes every other day. We stopped by to see him but he was sleeping so we just visited a moment or two with his wife and left.

Things around here have been absolutely out of control. Here at the house there has been a lot of drama. My son and his girlfriend had a huge blow-up yesterday and she packed a bunch of stuff and left with her two daughters. We weren't surprised when she came back a while later. There really isn't anywhere to go as she still hasn't found a job.

We put off our Adult Family Christmas Dinner because of my surgery. It is scheduled for this Saturday. I am really excited about it and tomorrow night I attend my first bariatric support group at the local hospital.

Edited to Add: I just received a call from my niece that my brother was admitted to ICU this morning. Apparently his wife couldn't wake him up so called the ambulance. It appears he is in septic shock (serious infection) and they are having trouble regulating his blood pressure and blood sugar. Please join me in sending prayers for his recovery. He is only 67 years old.

I'm Leaving On A Jet Plane . . .

2011-12-30T21:32:00.003-07:00

No, not really -- just going to Idaho for a few days to see my mom and visit other family members. Seems like a good time to take a few days off while the weather is good.

Christmas was a lot of fun. The kids all had a great time opening their gifts. (Austyn and Nacole)

Even the big kids! (Sons Brett and Robert)

Have you met Ormie the Pig?

2011-12-28T12:52:00.001-07:00

He is the cutest thing ever -- you are going to LOVE him.

Thanks everyone for your congratulatory messages. You always make me feel so good. What great buddies you are.

Getting ready for the New Year?

I've now lost . . .

2011-12-27T20:41:00.004-07:00

pounds!

I'm so excited. I got on the scales this afternoon and did a happy dance -- as best as one can with two canes.

I'm feeling lots better and working hard to keep my fluid intake high.

I started working on the baby blanket a bit ago. I'm just doing a quick great big granny square with the orange, blue and white. I'll put a nice edge on it to dress it up a bit.

No, I'm not dead . . .

2011-12-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

I'm just buried.

You wouldn't even believe the shape of my house right now. I don't know what happened. I thought the hurricane force winds were outside but it looks like they came inside too.

Only the whirlwind that hit my house wasn't all pretty and pink. UGH!

See ya soon!

Merry Christmas to All ! ! !

2011-12-25T09:10:00.002-07:00

Hospitals ! UGH!

2011-12-24T08:21:00.004-07:00

I ended up back in the hospital on Wednesday. I was severely dehydrated and had to have IV fluids overnight. They also performed an endoscopy on me to make sure the opening to my stomach didn't have a stricture in it (which means it hadn't narrowed due to scar tissue, etc.). I'm happy to report it was fine. I am feeling so much better now after doses of anti-nausea medication and bottles of IV fluids.

It doesn't really even seem like Christmas to me and here at our house we are celebrating it this evening because my son has his children for Christmas Eve. I didn't have a chance to do a lot of shopping this year and so things are a bit meager from us but with everything else they get I'm sure they will be happy.

Merry Christmas to you all!

(My son and his wife in their Mr. and Mrs. Santa hats I made for them last year.)

I'm sick !

2011-12-21T13:24:00.001-07:00

I can't keep anything on my stomach at all and haven't been able to for the last two days. I hope it's only the tummy troubles that the step-granddaughter had last week. It's kind of freaking me out.

Who wants to be barfing for Christmas??????

Weeweechu

2011-12-20T09:58:00.001-07:00

It was a romantic full moon when Pedro said, "Hey, Mamacita, let's do Weeweechu."

Oh no, not now, let's look at the moon!" , said Rosita.

Oh, c'mon baby, let's you and I do Weeweechu. I love you and it's the perfect time," Pedro begged.

"But I wanna just hold your hand and watch the moon." replied Rosita."Please, corazoncito, just once, do Weeweechu with me."

Rosita looked at Pedro and said, "OK, one time, we'll do Weeweechu."

"Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, Weeweechu a Merry Christmas,

Weeweechu a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year."

Check out this bit of holiday spirit:

http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/holiday11/

Finally -- the hat is finished ! !

2011-12-19T12:40:00.001-07:00

About time, huh?

Baby Jacket Completed

2011-12-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

I really like the little buttons on it. Goes with all the various colors in the yarn. I still need to make the little cap but that should be easy enough to finish off today. Then I can get it in the mail. It's going to Boise, Idaho.

I might even have enough yarn left to make some matching booties. We'll just have to see about that.

I tried a few stitch patterns yesterday for the baby blanket but didn't really find what I was looking for so the search is still on. After I finish off the baby hat I'll get more serious about it.

Time for some nice warm peppermint tea and maybe another browse through some stitch pattern books. I just purchased The Crochet Stitch Bible and shall start with that one.

Have a fantastic day!!!!!

Baby Sweater

2011-12-16T10:11:00.001-07:00

This is the back of the little baby sweater I am making for my niece's new grandbaby due to arrive (I think) in March. I worked on it some more yesterday after this photo was taken and am not on the sleeves so hopefully finish it up sometime today. I have some cute white buttons that have A B C D on them in some of the same colors as the yarn. I plan to make a little beanie to go with it too. It's so nice to be back to crocheting. I guess my arm really needed that rest as it is just fine now. (So I'd best not overdo it huh.)

I got my yarn for the baby blanket yesterday and have been looking at stitch patterns, etc.

Yesterday I got to eat blended cottage cheese with peaches for lunch and even had a spoonful of pulverized tuna with a bit of fat-free mayo for dinner. This is, of course, in addition to protein shakes, etc. You don't realize how much you associate chewing with food until you don't have anything to chew.

Austyn's mom told him that because of my surgery I was going to lose a lot of weight. He asked me, "Nana, what are you gonna do with all that skin when the stuffing is gone?" Good question, little man. Let's hope it doesn't all fall to my ankles.

Hope everyone is ready for CHRISTmas. It's coming whether we like it or not.

2011-12-15T11:40:00.001-07:00

UPDATE:

31 POUNDS LOST!!!!!!

The white stuff has arrived and it's 23 degrees outside. It's dark and dreary and up until about an hour ago it was so foggy you couldn't see your hand in front of your face. Bitter cold then -- about 18 degrees.

Ain't It Just Peachy?

2011-12-14T20:48:00.004-07:00

I've been working on this peach scarf for a few days. I'm nearly finished -- I just need to block it. It's Tunisian crochet and the pattern is really simple: 3 rows of 2 Tss, yo, skip 1 st, and repeat to the end. Then 2 rows of Tps. Repeat pattern. Mine started with 26 stitches but you can make yours as wide as you want. I only had two skeins of this DK yarn.

I have a great-niece that is having a baby boy so started a little sweater tonight. It's so good to be back crocheting again. I have really missed it.

Visited the surgeon's office today and she said everything looks grand. Says I can have cottage cheese and other very soft things. I had a couple of slices of peaches tonight and I can't even tell you how wonderful it tasted.

I can't have this -- but YOU can!

2011-12-12T10:06:00.002-07:00

Smucker's Praline Bars

Crust:
3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups flour

Filling:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 lg. eggs, beaten
1/2 c. almond brickle chips
1/4 cup Smucker's Caramel Spoonable Ice Cream Topping

Crust: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix butter, sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour, mixing on low speed until blended. Press onto bottom of a 9x13" baking pan. Bake 20 to 23 minutes until lightly browned.

Filling:
Mix cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add eggs; mix well. Stir in chips. Pour over crust. Drop teaspoonfuls of caramel topping over cream cheese mixture. Gently run a knife through the batter to swirl the caramel topping.

Bake 30 minutes more. Cool in pan on wire rack. Refrigerate. Cut into bars.

Our neighbors are coming back from Arizona tomorrow night and so I plan to have some of these bars and some yummy Savory Vegetable Beef Stew in the slow cooker all ready for them. Along with some crusty bread -- YUMMY!

(Not my photos -- they are from Allrecipes.com

where I got the recipes)

On a serious note:

My BFF, Catherine Fry, lost her dear husband a few days ago due to cancer. Cat is such an amazing woman and Sid was a very lucky husband to have her by his side during his final earthly journey. Please include her in your thoughts and prayers.

Winter Poem

2011-12-10T10:39:00.001-07:00

It'swinter time in Utah

Andthe gentle breezes blow

Seventymiles an hour

Atthirty-five below.

Oh,how I love Utah

Whenthe snow's up to your butt

Youtake a breath of winter

Andyour nose gets frozen shut.

Yes,the weather here is wonderful

SoI guess I'll hang around

I never could never leave Utah

Cuz I'm frozen to the ground!

A friend sent me this poem and I decided to adapt it to fit Utah. It was originally about Norway but right now it seems to fit here except the snow up to your butt -- but never fear that will probably be the case soon enough. Thanks, Jan, for the cute poem.

Tonight is the family party here. We're having it catered except for the crockpot full of chili I put on this morning. It will be so wonderful to see everyone.

I think I'm going to make up the baby blanket stitch and probably use white and yellow. See ya later -- have a good time this weekend.

R U Kidding Me???? Seriously????

2011-12-09T08:39:00.001-07:00

Now a bladder infection????

GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Baby Blanket

2011-12-08T08:30:00.001-07:00

I'm seriously thinking about making the blanket shown in today's post at Mama's Stitchery even if not for this baby. Those that several of you have suggested would also be fantastic. I think what I'll do is print out their pictures and then ask my DIL which one she thinks Crystal would like. She'll be here on Friday to drop Austyn off.

I am down 27 pounds -- but then who wouldn't be after a month on liquids only, right? The kids have already commented they can see it in my face. Hopefully one of these days they will also see it in my butt!!!! ;-)

My son and I were talking about exercising this morning and it reminded me of a conversation I overheard at work one day:

Elizabeth: So, George, how's the walking going?

George: I have to walk early in the morning before my brain figures out what I'm doing.

Maybe that's the key to exercise. It's taking longer and longer all the time for my brain to get working in the mornings.

My waterfall has stopped flowing. Isn't that something? I got up yesterday morning and decided I'd wrap it good and take a shower, knowing that when I finished I'd have to wrap it again but I still used waterproof tape. Good thing I did cause then I didn't have to torture my skin again (it looks like I've had small pox on my tummy from all the tape being ripped off) as it never leaked through. At 5 o'clock last night I decided to take a look at it and there was only one tiny little drop of drainage on the bandage. No drainage since last night. I'm almost afraid to breath cuz I don't want to do anything that would open it up again. I am so relieved. YEEEEE HAWWWW!

Baby blanket soon to be on the hook

2011-12-07T10:27:00.001-07:00

My DIL's twin sister is going to have a baby. She has been trying for quite some time and has had a few miscarriages so we are all pretty excited about her carrying this one. I need to find a cute baby blanket pattern. I mean I have a bunch of them but it's decision time. My real quandry is that they are HUGE Boise State sports fans. Should I make a blanket in orange and blue with their logo or should I just make a cute blanket (and possibly sweater)? I'm not really into "advertisements" on baby blankets but some people really are we don't know if it's a boy or girl so orange and navy might not be a great choice for a little girl. However, I could do something like this with white and then navy and orange centers:

Or I could come up with some fun stitch pattern and take off on my own, right? Or you could suggest one and maybe win a prize. Put on those thinking caps, please.

You have all been so wonderful with your "get well" wishes and prayers. Thank you! I'm still draining like a waterfall but I am feeling good. If that would just stop. We're supposed to have our adult family Christmas party this Saturday and I'd hate to have to change it at this point. We might convert it to finger foods here on Saturday and then all go out in January.

Finally -- A little crocheting finished

2011-12-06T10:40:00.001-07:00

What a relief to get this off the hook. This poor scarf has been languishing for -- well, for a long time. I finished it off last night and am very pleased with how it turned out. It's in Tunisian crochet and the basic stitch pattern is 4 Tss, yo sk 1 st, 2 Tss, yo sk 1 st and repeat to end (ending with 4 Tss). You can make it as wide as you want.

Now it's on to something new. What shall I make -- the list is endless.

I am feeling quite a bit better today. My voice is improving and my throat isn't quite as sore as it was before. It makes it easier to swallow and so I'm getting more fluids. Tummy still a little sore and one incision draining but overall, I'm feeling much better today.

I hope you are all having a great day as well.

Frosty -- thumpty thump thump

2011-12-05T05:14:00.001-07:00

Edited to add: NO CANCER! Whew! I was so scared. I have what is called fatty liver hepatitis. It should get better with the improved diet and weight loss. It is normally seen in about 70% of the patients they see for weight loss surgery. She just thought mine looked particular bad but there is nothing fibrois in it so it should eventually heal. Also the drainage wasn't normal and she had to open one of the healing areas to let it drain. Apparently it happens when the skin heals on the top and fluid builds up underneath. Not instead of a little waterfall I feel like a dam has been opened up. I have to see her again in a week. Gosh, I am relieved. Just HAD to tell you all.

Here's Frosty holding up the finally finished felted (say that fast three times) office chair pads. Opps! Looks like one is right side up and one is the opposite but I guess you get the drift. Rob and Amy came for dinner last night and I finished the second one up just as they were ready to leave. (Well, if truth be told they had to stay a bit longer than they wanted so they could take them with them.) I hope they will fit well and be serviceable.

They really are nice and sturdy. He had a good idea, I think.

The neighbor brought over a nice potato casserole last night for our dinner and while they ate it with Hawaiian Sweet Bread and steamed veggies, I had a nice bowl of whirled vegetable soup. Blending it all up like that certainly changes it appearance. It reminds me of a joke back when I was a kid:

Q: What is green and red and goes "Whirrrrr"?

A: A frog in a blender.

Terrible, huh? Tee hee.

I guess I wrote my follow-up appointment down wrong as it is this morning. They should have the biopsy results on my liver. I'm kinda freakin' out. I'll post a P.S. to this later. One worry I have had is that the incision by my belly button is doing some serious draining. It didn't start doing that until Friday and it's kind of like having my own little waterfall. No fever or anything -- I'm just leaking. "Help me - I'm melting!"

Hugs til later!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

2011-12-04T17:32:00.001-07:00

100_0139, originally uploaded by Bev Matheson.

It's wonderful to have the tree up. The grandkids and kids sure did a good job.

It really is beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here.

Back to School Jacket for AG Doll

2011-12-04T10:27:00.001-07:00

Ravelry asked me to correct the link to my doll pattern and so I have added it back here.

Materials Needed:

1 skein Sassy Stripes Yarn (147yds, 1.76 oz.); Color: Crayon; or any other Light (3) weight yarn

SizeK/6.5mm Tunisian Crochet Hook; I Crochet Hook

Four ½”buttons of choice

TapestryNeedle

Stitches Used:

Tunisian simple stitch (tss) (seealso http://www.freepatterns.com/content/content.html?content_id=58)

Singlecrochet (sc)

Gauge:

5 tss = 1”wide

3 tss = 1”tall

Back:

Foundation: Ch 22, turn

Row 1: Keeping all loops on hook, tss in 22 ch across.Return row: slide hook through 1^st loop, then through 2 loops at atime to end of Row 1.

Row 2: Repeat Row 1 for 18 rows (approximately 5”), finishoff.

Front (make 2):

Foundation: Ch 10, turn.

Row 1, Keeping all loops on hook, tss in 10 ch across.Return row: slip hook through 1^st loop, then through 2 loops at atime to end of Row 1.

Row 2: Repeat Row 1 for 18 rows (approximately 5”), finishoff.

Sew shoulder seams together to within 1” from middle edge.

Lay jacket down with right side up. Count down 10 stitches from shoulder seam.

Sleeves:

Row 1: Begin tss here and continue for 10 stitches past theother side of the shoulder seam. (20 stitches). Return row: slip hook through 1^stloop, then through 2 loops at a time to end of Row 1.

Row 2: Repeat Row 1 for 12 rows (approximately 4”), finishoff. Repeat on other side of jacket front (keeping right side towards you).

Sew side and arm seams up.

Edging and Button Band:

Switch to I crochet hook for the edging/button band.

Row 1: With the sweater fronts facing you, begin with a scin the bottom stitch of the left front and sc all the way around the leftfront, (3 sc in each corner where front and neck meet) neck and right front.(Do not sc around the bottom at this time). Ch 1, turn.

Row 2: sc in first chain from hook and continue up the rightside and around the neck (3 sc in each corner where front and neck meet) anddown the left front, ch 1 turn.

Row 3: sc around to top of right side corner. After ch 3 inthe stitch there, sc in next 3 sc, ch 2, sk 2 sc, sc in next 2 sc, sk 2 sc andrepeat two more times until you have 4 buttonholes. Continue single crochetingaround to the bottom of the left side. (3 sc in each corner where front andneck meet), ch 1 turn.

Row 4: sc up front to corner, in corner sc 2 ch sc in samestitch 2 times; sc around the neck to neck corner and when you get to thecorner you will sc 2 ch sc in the same stitch 2 times. Continue to sc around the bottom edge of the sweater thistime, finish off with a slip stitch at the bottom, weave in all ends.

Sew buttons on front of jacket.

A great video on how to crochet a Tunisian simple stitch canbe found at: http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to-crochet-tunisian-simple-stitch-168081/

You may use this pattern to make as many of these littlejackets as you would like but please do not taut it as your own or sell itunder your own name. Thanks!

We survived !

2011-12-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

During the middle of the night yesterday we were awakened to terrible sounds around the house. A horrible windstorm was upon us and it was SCARY! Wind gusts of up to 100 mph bashed against the house, taking with it most of our shingles and collapsing our garage door. There were many people with significantly more damage than us. We were very blessed. There were initially about 50,000 people without power and this morning there were still about 20,000. This is the gas station just a few blocks from the house.

There were huge trees down everywhere. The local golf course lost all 84 of theirs. To see those huge giant firs down is just amazing. I haven't been outside but am told by those who have that the destruction is quite devastating. The 8-mile section of a main highway just above us was littered with 13 huge trampolines, along with huge trees and power lines. The interstate was closed several times due to trucks blowing over.

We are very blessed that no one was killed during this storm.

As far as I am doing? Well, a little better today. The throat is not quite as sore and the incisions, etc. are healing nicely. Whew! Am glad to be on the upside again. Thanks for all your sweet comments and especially your prayers. I know they had made ALL the difference.

Now for a chuckle:

Wanda's dishwasher quit working so she called in a repairman. Since she had to go to work the next day, she told the repairman, "I'll leave the key under the mat. Fix the dishwasher, leave the bill on the counter, and I'll mail you a check. Oh, by the way don't worry about my dog Spike. He won't bother you."

"But, whatever you do, do NOT, under ANY circumstances, talk to my parrot! I MUST STRESS TO YOU: DO NOT TALK TO MY PARROT!!!"

When the repairman arrived at Wanda's apartment the following day, he discovered the biggest, meanest looking dog he has ever seen. But, just as she had said, the dog just lay there on the carpet watching the repairman go about his work.

The parrot, however, drove him nuts the whole time with his incessant yelling, cursing and name calling.

Finally the repairman couldn't contain himself any longer and yelled, "Shut up, you stupid, ugly bird!"
To which the parrot replied.............

"Get him Spike!"

See - Men just don't listen!

Quick Post

2011-12-01T18:45:00.001-07:00

Very quick post. I am finally home. Had a couple of setbacks. When they were doing the gastric bypass they noticed that my liver did not look good so after the bypass they decided to do a biopsy. Then they couldn't get the scope out through my throat. In the process of getting it out they did some pretty extensive damage to it -- lacerations of the throat, tonsils, etc. I still have very little voice. I had to come home with oxygen because of the problems getting enough air. To put it mildly, I am miserable but alive. Thank goodness.

Meet Thomas the Tank, my oxgen machine. If you listen carefully and turn up your speakers you might hear me talking.

I'll be back as soon as I can. Thanks for all your prayers. Please keep them coming. Won't have news on the liver until I see the doctor on the 6th.

Will post again in a few days . . .

2011-11-27T20:37:00.001-07:00

All my bags are packed,

I'm ready to go . . .

I wish. I need to get my bag packed still but have done the medication list, prepared a Do Not Resuscitate form and talked with all the kids. Once I get my bag packed I have to bath in a special antiseptic soap (and do it again in the morning). Will have my last protein shake about 10:30 p.m. Say my prayers and try to sleep.

I did get one of the arm covers felted today and it is drying. It fit perfectly -- well, to be honest it was about an inch too long but it will be perfect once trimmed and stitched onto the chair arm. I'm really happy with how it turned out and will post both when finished.

Hugs to you all and see ya soon!

Post Surgery and Felted Arm Covers

2011-11-27T09:34:00.001-07:00

I was totally freaking out this morning as I read through my patient guidebook again this morning. I decided I needed a distraction so I decided to post my progress on my arm covers. After reading all your lovely comments, I know now that everything will be okay. It's so nice to have such kind and sweet friends. By this time tomorrow the surgery will be over and sometime on Tuesday I will be back home. Thank you all for your friendship.

I only got about half of one of the arm covers finished yesterday. My son and his wife came and the tree trimming started and they played games with the kids until they finally had to leave. I had a horrible headache so I just spent some time on my bed listening to them. They all had so much fun. I had horrible charlie horses yesterday. My potassium must be low again. I'm definitely missing something in my diet that I need to work on. Those dang things HURT!

Once again, thanks everyone for the well-wishes. I need to get back to these arm covers if I'm going to get them done today. If I do, I'll post again later.

The tree is going up today and I have a special project for my hook

2011-11-26T06:21:00.001-07:00

There is so much still to get done before surgery on Monday but we'll take some time today to get the Christmas tree up. I wouldn't bother this year if it weren't for the grandkids. So out comes all the Christmas crap this morning. My youngest son and his wife are coming up to join the festivities so it will be a nice day. Build your own sandwiches for them for lunch and a chicken soup protein drink for me. I can hardly believe it's only two more days. I'm gettin' kind of freaked about it. Couldn't sleep this morning. Up at 4:30 with lists going through my mind. Only a few more gifts to purchase and The Hubster will have to take care of those. Just gift cards mainly.

My son has asked me to crochet some office chair arm pads. His chair is in fantastic shape but one of the arm pads has cracked. I'm going to try and get them crocheted today and will felt them either today or tomorrow. Wish me luck. What are the odds I'll get them right the first time? Zero to none, right? It would be a MIRACLE for sure. Will post progress tomorrow -- and hopefully have some pictures -- maybe funny ones. Tee hee!

Now it's on to CHRISTmas!

2011-11-25T09:17:00.001-07:00

Thankful Thoughts

2011-11-23T04:19:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of all. It reminds me to be grateful for the blessings in my life. Someone once asked me how I kept such a positive attitude and I told them I didn't have a choice. "I have people that I love and people that love me. I am surrounded by it." So this Thanksgiving I'm especially thankful to be surrounded by love. Love of family and friends.

I wish you blessings too. Loads of them.

Did you know ? ?

2011-11-22T06:52:00.001-07:00

A banana is not a fruit nor vegetable. It is an herb.

The Pac-Man video arcade game featured colored ghosts named Inky, Blinky, Pinky and Clyde.

6% of men propose over the phone.

If you spin a ball clockwise while dropping it on a hard surface, it will bounce back up spinning counter clockwise.

The tongue is the only muscle in your body that is not connected to something at both ends.

Houseflies buzz in the key of F.

Koalas and humans have similiar unique fingerprints.

The average person spends 3 years of their life on the toilet.

In France it's illegal to name your pig Napoleon.

The average lead pencil will draw a line 35 miles long or write about 50,000 English words.

Geographically, China falls into five time zones; but officially the entire country adheres to the same time.

In the Harry Potter universe, Hogwarts School's Latin motto is "Draco dormiens nunquam titillandus," which when translated into English means "Never tickle a sleeping dragon."

Lina Medina is the youngest confirmed mother in the world, by having a child at the age of 5 years and 7 month old. (Read about it at http://youngest_mother.tripod.com/.)

I got these facts from www.allrandomfacts.com. I have no idea if they are true or not but I had to laugh at some of them.

Patterns and Recipes -- Oh My!

2011-11-20T01:44:00.001-07:00

The pattern I am using for my earflap hats is by Danielle Ortega. It's called Brimmed Ear Flap Beanie and can be purchased from Dz Crochet Creations for $4.99. You can also purchase it from her website at www.handmadebyd.com. Since I've now made SIX hats with it, I feel I've gotten my pattern's worth out of it. It's an easy pattern to follow and the instructions on how to do the brim with the earflaps is very helpful. I used I Love This Yarn from Hobby Lobby for all of them I have done so far but any worsted weight yarn should work fine. It's pretty easy to modify as well -- stripes where you want them, etc. NOTE: For an adult hat I not only used the larger hook as suggested but I added two extra increase rows and two extra on the length. I don't know if I have a bigger head than most people or not but that made it fit just right on me and both of the two teens I made them for.

The recipe I used for my hot and sour soup base is at Cooks.com. It's really easy:

4 cups chicken stock or broth
3 tbsp. soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon garlic chili sauce
1/4 tsp. ground white pepper
1/4 c. white vinegar
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp. cornstarch and 2 tbsp. cold water
2 green onion stalks, diced in big chunks (so you can take it out or small if you want to leave it in)
1/2 tsp. toasted sesame oil

Bring the broth to a simmer, add soy sauce, white pepper, vinegar. Combine the cornstarch and water in a cup and stir until smooth. Add to soup and stir well. Simmer about five minutes until soup is thickened. Beat egg in a cup and pour slowly in a fine stream into the soup. Stir several times. Wait 30 seconds and add green onions and sesame oil to soup. Stir well and remove from heat. Serve hot.

If you want to add chicken, tofu, bamboo shoots, etc. to it then check out the link above for the full recipe. NOTE: 1/4 c. white vinegar was too much for me. I reduced it by a tablespoon and it was just right.

Earflap Hats

2011-11-19T10:29:00.001-07:00

I guess the earflap hats I made for the step-granddaughter and her friend are in hot demand at their high schools. I have had requests for a red and white one (school colors) and a baby blue and neon green one. I finished the baby blue and neon one last night. Now on to the red and white one.

I'm still surprised at the colors the girls have wanted put together. Really fun. They wanted a pom-pom but not a "big ball". This seemed to work for them.

On the liquid diet front: We stopped at a Chinese Restaurant yesterday and I had hot and sour soup -- without the stuff in it -- only the broth. I tell ya, I thought I had died and gone to heaven. The Hubster is picking up the ingredients from the grocery store so we can make the broth at home. Flavors are really important to me. I've ordered all my supplements (I think) and came away $150 poorer. Good thing we're saving right now on meals. Sheeeeesh! I also got a haircut. BAAAAD decision. Worst haircut I've had in 10 years. Good think I won't be going anywhere for a while. I look like a crazy woman. I almost had to do this:

Have a fantastic weekend--you deserve it!

Chuckle Chuckle ! ! !

2011-11-18T10:13:00.001-07:00

A man and his wife were awakened at 3:00 am by a loud pounding on the door.

The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push.

"Not a chance," says the husband, "it is 3:00 in the morning!" He slams the door and returns to bed.

"Who was that?" asked his wife. "Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.

"Did you help him?" she asks.

"No, I did not, it's 3am in the morning and it's bloody pouring rain out there!"

"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself! "God loves drunk people too you know."

The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pounding rain.

He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?"

"Yes," comes back the answer.

"Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband.

"Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark.

"Where are you?" asks the husband.

"Over here on the swing," replied the drunk.

Check out these gorgeous yarn bowls on Etsy. Oh my gosh, I love all of them. Blue Room Pottery.

Updates

2011-11-17T09:12:00.001-07:00

The all liquid diet hasn't been so bad. I haven't felt all that hungry BUT the caffeine headache was a doozy. I really miss my Diet Vanilla Pepsi and my one cup of coffee each morning. (Notice I didn't say I had only one cup of Diet Vanilla Pepsi a day -- oh no, we won't even go there -- I refused to count.)

Today is my preop appointment at the surgeon's office. They said it will take an hour and a half. Now last time I went (actually it was the only time I have been) they told me the appointment would take two hours and it took four. Let's hope this isn't the same cuz I go nearly bonkers when I'm waiting around in a doctor's office. Plus there is the half hour drive there and another half hour back (and that's if traffic is excellent).

On the crochet front I'm slowly making a scarf. Very slowly. The arm still doesn't want to cooperate with marathon crocheting so I'm doing it just a bit at a time. The color is darker than shown here but it's coming along, I think. Very simple but will be a nice warm one when finished.

"I'll be back . . ." as Arnold, The Terminator, would say.

P.S. Henya, if you happen to read this, I've been trying to post to your blog for the last two days. BIG hugs from Utah and you DO need some serious yarn shopping. DO IT!

Today's Chuckle

2011-11-15T09:58:00.001-07:00

Four guys have been going on the same fishing trip for many years. Two days before the group is to leave, Nick's wife puts her foot down and tells him he isn't going.

Nick's mates are very upset that he can't go, but what can they do.

Two days later the three get to the camping site only to find Nick sitting there with a tent set up, firewood gathered, and dinner cooking on the fire.

"Nick, how long you been here, and how did you talk your missus into letting you go?"

"Well, I've been here since yesterday. Yesterday evening, I was sitting in my chair and my wife came up behind me and put her hands over my eyes and said, 'Guess who?'"

I pulled her hands off, and she was wearing a brand new nightie.

She took my hand and pulled me to our bedroom. The room had candles and rose petals all over. On the bed she had handcuffs, and ropes! She told me to tie and cuff her to the bed, and I did. And then she said, "Do whatever you want."

So, here I am.

(I wouldn't have wanted to be him when she got loose.)

Patterns, Liquid Diets, Crocheting and More

2011-11-14T11:49:00.001-07:00

I'll try not to make this a long post but I have a LOT to share this morning. First, I have a pattern being published in a magazine this next spring and the technical editor and I have been on the phone going over some issues with it this morning. Once again I realize that I am not a pattern writer but thank goodness she is and has the actual item to look at -- a picture paints a thousand words (or whatever that saying is).

You remember me talking about possibly having gastric bypass surgery to help me lose weight and how if I had it done that I would no longer have diabetes? Well, it looked like it wouldn't get approved so I stopped thinking about it (cuz it just depressed the hell out of me to be perfectly honest). Were it only for the weight loss, I'm not sure I'd do it but to no longer have diabetes, I'd do it in a heartbeat. Diabetes is one nasty disease. Well, low and behold I got a call from the surgeon's office on Friday that it had been approved!!!!! November 28th is my surgery date. I know it will be a lifestyle change but to be told that starting this morning I am only allowed liquids for the next TWO weeks was a shocker! Don't get me wrong, I knew it would happen but I went from thinking no surgery to "Stop eating entirely right now!" Thank goodness I can have Jello. If I didn't have something I could actually chomp on, I think I'd end up eating my fingers down to the bottom knuckle. I had hoped to ease into this but cold turkey is a shock-a-roo. I'm going to have to start working on a big crochet project to take my mind off of food -- and watch a lot of Netflix movies.

On to the world of crochet. I finished the orange and red earflap hat and am working on the black and neon green one today. As soon as both are finished I'll post a few pictures. They are really cute hats. I've enjoyed making them.

Do you know the Muffin Man, the Muffin Man, the Muffin Man . . .

2011-11-13T12:49:00.001-07:00

As a surprise for Austyn this weekend, I got him a little cupcake baking set. We've been making muffins and cupcakes. There aren't any left but we sure had a good time.

We were putting the batter in his little cupcake pan and it started to drip down the side. I said, "Austyn, catch that drip quick!" He did it with his tongue. When I said, "Not with your tongue," he said, "Why not. It was right there and very handy."

Children!

Brayden was here later on in the weekend and we'll post a few pics of them together maybe tomorrow.

EXTREME Yarn Bombing

2011-11-11T10:28:00.001-07:00

Hats for Charity and Otherwise

2011-11-10T07:45:00.001-07:00

After sending Brayden home in his new beanie for his beanie, my daughter sent me a text and said her step-daughter and friend each wanted one in an adult size. You'll never guess the colors. One in red and orange and the other in black and neon green. Sheeeeesh -- what colors! I think I'll give the white one I made yesterday to my mom. I modified it a little by giving it a more feminine brim. What do you think? (I made it so she can easily take off the braids if she wants. They're kinda funky for an 87 year old.)

It was 5 a.m. when I took this so it's kind of dark. I also made this one for my charity box. It's one of Kristine Mullen's patterns -- the Spring Daisy pattern I purchased the other day from Ambassador Crochet. I didn't do her reverse sc around the edge. I finished it off with a picot stitch instead. Gives it more of a vintage look, I think. She does her connections in the round a little different than I do but it was an easy enough pattern. I'm going to make a few more of these. They work up really fast.

As you can tell, my arm is feeling better but I'd best pace myself and not overdo it or I'll be back to being in misery again.

Have a fantastic day -- you deserve it!

Hardee-Har-Har and Oh Dear!

2011-11-09T06:18:00.001-07:00

My friend Jan sent me this today and I just had to share:

Four old friends were playing their weekly game of golf. One remarked how nice it would be to wake up on Christmas morning, roll out of bed and without an argument go directly to the golf course, meet his pals and play a round.

His friends all chimed in and said, "Let's do it! We'll make it a priority; figure out a way and meet here early, Christmas morning." Months later, that special morning arrives, and there they are on the
golf course.

The first player says, "Boy this game cost me a fortune! I bought my wife such a diamond ring that she can't take her eyes off it." The second guy says, "I spent a ton too. My wife is at home planning the cruise I gave her. She was up to her eyeballs in brochures."

The third man says "Well my wife is at home admiring her new car, reading the manual."

They all turned to the last one of the group who is staring at them like they have lost their minds.

"I can't believe you all went to such expense for this golf game. I slapped my wife on the behind and said, Well babe, Merry Christmas! It's a great morning for sex or golf," and all she said was, "You'll need a sweater."

Now for the "Oh Dear!" part of this post. Little Brayden was so excited about spending "two sleepovers at Nana's and Grandpa's." We had such a fun night snuggling and watching a movie. Went to bed and at 3:30 a.m. I hear him saying, "Oh dear, oh dear" and then barfing sounds. Poor little tyke was so sick. He threw up for the longest time and was feverish as well. He finally decided he wanted his Mommy and wanted to go home. So at 5:45 a.m. The Hubster is leaving for work early so he can drop him off. Here's a picture of him in his hat. Doesn't he look sad? Look at those dark circles under his little eyes. Poor baby.

But he sure looks cute in that little hat don't you think? Now, is Nana gonna get it? I sure hope not. I do NOT like to have "tummy troubles."

Cara Cowl Pattern

2011-11-08T00:19:00.000-07:00

Cara Cowl

Materials:

DK Yarn (but any weight could be used by simply adjusting the chain multiples indicated below)

G crochet hook

Chain 35 (multiples of 10 plus 5)

Row 1: DC in 4th ch from hook, dc in next ch, * skip next 3 ch, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in next chain, skip next 3 ch, dc in each of next 3 ch; repeat from * across, turn.

Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), skip first dc, dc in each of next 2 dc, * (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in next ch-2 space, skip next 2 dc, dc in each of next 3 dc; rep from * across, ending with last dc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.

Repeat Row 2 for pattern. I made 55 rows and slip stitched the ends together. I then did a scallop stitch pattern around both the bottom and the top. You can add more rows if you would like to make it longer, of course.

This pattern is fast and easy; however, if you have any problems with it at all, please let me know.

--o0o--

I made this cute Brimmed Earflap Beanie today. I purchased the pattern from DzCrochetCreations. It was SOOO easy and SOOO fun. The pattern comes in sizes to fit children and adults. I made this one for Brayden (who will be staying here the next few days so hopfully I can get a picture of him in it). The next one I make will have more stripes in it.

Can you see the cute earflaps and braided ties? I love it!

Another great place to purchase hat/beanie patterns is Kristine's Ambassador Crochet. I just purchased her Spring Daisy Beanie pattern and can't wait to make some for the Cancer Institute and my nieces. It also comes in sizes from baby to adult.

Cassiopea Cowl Pattern

2011-11-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Cassiopea Cowl

Materials:

DK weight yarn (but any weight would work by adjusting your multiples of 4 plus 3 stitches)

G crochet hook

This is the stitch pattern I used for the Cassiopea Cowl. It is a multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches. I used 47 for mine.

Row 1: DC in 4th ch from hook, dc in each ch across, turn.

Row 2: Ch 4 (counts as dc, ch 1), skip first 2 dc, * dc in nxt dc, ch 1, skip next dc; rep from * across to turning ch, dc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.

Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), * dc in next ch-1 space, dc in next dc; repeat from * across, ending with the last dc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.

Rows 4-5: Repeat Rows 2-3.

Row 6: Ch 2, skip first 2 dc, dc in next dc, ch 3, 3 dc around the post of last dc made, * skip next 3 dc, dc in next dc, ch 3, 3 dc around the post of the last dc made; repeat from * across to within last 2 sts, skip next dc, dc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.

Row 7: Ch 4 (counts as tr), * skip next 4 dc, dc in top of next ch-3 loop, ch 3, 3 dc around the post of last dc made; repeat from * across to turning ch, tr in 2nd ch of turning ch, turn.

Row 8: Ch 4 (counts a dc, ch 1), * skip next 4 dc, sc in top of next ch-3 loop **, ch 3; repeat from * across, ending last repeat at **, ch 3, repeat from * across, ending last repeat at **, ch 1, dc in 4th ch of turning ch, turn.

Row 9: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next ch-1 space, * dc in next sc, 3 dc in next ch-3 loop; repeat from * across to last ch-3 loop, dc in next sc, dc in ch-1 space of turning ch, dc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.

Repeat Rows 2-9 for pattern. I did 5 repeats. You can add more if you want to make it longer.

I seamed it together using a slip stitch. After taking the picture I went back and did a simple (3 dc) shell around the top and the bottom.

If you make one and have any questions at all, please let me know.

--o0o--

I am still on the prowl for snowmen patterns for the blanket. I've found quite a few I think I can use or adapt. I'm thinking of alternating with snowflake motifs. I'm also contemplating colors and what size squares to use. I did make a red square over the weekend and a white snowflake. I might see about sewing it down today and taking a serious look at it.

Cowls on the Double

2011-11-06T03:52:00.001-07:00

I've made a couple of cowls to set aside as Christmas presents. I just chose a stitch pattern and repeated it until it was the size I wanted. The step-granddaughter liked them so much she is making them as Christmas gifts. She's doing hers in plain Tunisian simple stitch with a very large hook to make them look lacy.

All day yesterday was such a dark and dreary day. Very cloudy and the sun never did peek through. Our snow stayed (except on the roads thank goodness) and I expect we may be getting more of it today.

You have GOT to see this blanket ! ! ! !

2011-11-05T08:17:00.000-06:00

There is the CUTEST snowman blanket at Sibol (Sunshine International Blankets of Love)'s website this morning. Oh, I want to make one of these soooo bad. I'm on my way to cruise the Internet to find snowman squares and come up with some ideas of my own. Please share any that you know of with me. I think this is such a great charity. I haven't donated squares because they are in the UK but occasionally I have donated a bit of money to help with their expenses. What a great cause and the blankets are always so pretty. Lots of love goes into them.

You can find another lovely blanket at The Good Life. It's truly one of the most beautiful blankets I have ever seen.

What's with all the blanket viewings? I guess it's because we got 4" of snow last night and it's staying! I know! It's not time for snow surely. I have to admit that the first snow of the year does kind of thrill me -- but since you all know me so well by now you know that it gets old early on. By Christmastime I am sick of it and there's still months and months of it left.

This is what it looked like at 7:30 a.m. this morning. Guess it's time to bring in the bench as no one will be walking around and needing a WET spot to sit on.

Have a fantastic weekend and don't forget it's Daylight Savings Time at 2 a.m. tomorrow morning. (Why, oh why, do we do that??)

AND THE WINNER IS . . .

2011-11-04T09:20:00.001-06:00

CHARLOTTE!!!!!!!!

Charlotte, please send me your mailing address to imin2crochet2 @ gmail . com and I will send your package off post-haste.

--oo0oo--

Two days ago a neighbor called and asked for some help with a crochet project. Her sister had passed away a few months ago and in her belongings was an old Christmas tin containing a partially completed tablecloth. She had the hook, thread and project and wondered if I could help her finish it. Her plan was to finish it enough that she could give it to her sister's daughter to use as a coffee table cloth. In order to do that she had to inset 8 motifs and crochet the edging. Get this: The thread is #30 and marked 29 cents when purchased from J.C. Penneys (who knows when). The labels were so yellow they were almost brown. ANYWAY, we got that worked out and off she went. About 30 minutes later she came back with a little card box. She said she had been to an auction and purchased a large wooden box for $5. She thought the box was empty but inside were "tons" of crocheted tablecloths, doilies, edged pillowcases and what she called "tidies" that go on armrests and behind your head on couches, chairs, etc., and this little box. The contents, she explained were what the ladies used as patterns for edgings. She said they would crochet them on bits of cloth and then keep them as no written patterns were readily available at the time. She remembers her grandmother having something similar and when the ladies would get together they would share each other's "patterns", often making their own on a bit of scrap they had brought with them so they could take it home. Here is what was in the box and

she gave it to me!!!!!

A Giveaway ! ! ! Yay ! ! !

2011-11-03T09:31:00.002-06:00

I know! It's been a while huh. I ordered a Mystery Box the other day from Craftsy.com. It came yesterday and this is what was in it:

A skein of Vanna's Choice Baby, two skeins of Cascade Cotton Club, a skein of Cascade Cash Vero, a canvas project bag and a set of Lantern Moon Destiny Circular Knitting Needles US 13 with a 32" extension. This entire Mystery Box (which is no longer a mystery) PLUS a few handmade surprises for your kitchen is yours if you are the winner. All you have to do is be a follower and make a comment to this post. I'll do the drawing on Friday morning and post the winner. You will have until Monday to notify me of your mailing address.

Come on along and join the fun.

Happy Birthday to Pammy Sue & Dallas

2011-11-02T08:20:00.001-06:00

I think Pam and I started blogging about the same time which lead to lots of fun conversations and sharing of ideas and recipes. Today is her

29th birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PAM!

Her blog is Scotty's Place so pop on over and wish her "Happy Birthday" too.

Today is also my grandson's birthday. Dallas is now officially a teenager. He promised me (when he was about 5) that he would be a "good" teenager. I asked him the other day if that was still his plan and his return comment was "We'll see." Hmmm, wonder what that means?! I'm sure he'll be a good teenager. After all, he's my grandson!!!!!!

HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY DALLAS!

Opps! Mistake on the Banana Muffin Recipe . . .

2011-11-01T20:13:00.005-06:00

Please note:

IT TAKES 3 BANANAS

Sorry!

Halloween done - Thanksgiving cometh

2011-11-01T11:12:00.002-06:00

Last night was a bust. We had 10 trick or treaters. We were the only house lit on our end of the street so I'm not surprised very few ventured down here.

Now it's on to Thanksgiving. As many of you know, we do a Thanksgiving day brunch instead of doing a full turkey or ham dinner. It makes it easier for the kids because then they aren't torn between going to the in laws or coming to our home. It's time to start thinking about the menu now. I usually do some sort of baked egg dish (like quiche), fresh fruit salad, muffins, etc. While Austyn was here last week we tried a few muffin recipes and he loved them both saying, "Nana, I will always love your muffins." It made me laugh because sometimes I call my big butt-cheeks "muffins" or "Twinkies."

I know many of you have made banana muffins and have a favorite recipe but if you don't, give this one a try. It was easy as can be and the muffins were moist and yummy.

Banana Muffins

1-1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3 large bananas, mashed
3/4 c. white sugar
1 egg
1/3 c. butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat muffin pans with non-stick spray. Sift together the dry ingredients and set aside. Combine bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter in a large bowl. Fold in flour mixture and mix until smooth. Scoop into muffin pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Muffins are ready when they spring back when lightly tapped.

Note: I added a bit of cinnamon and some chopped pecans.

Apple Pie Muffins

2-1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg
1 c. buttermilk (I used sour cream)
1 egg
1/2 c. melted butter
1-1/2 c. packed brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups diced apples

Topping:
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
1/3 c. flour
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tbsp. melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. In a large bowl stir together the dry ingredients. In a smaller bowl stir together the remaining muffin ingredients, except the apples) until the sugar has dissolved. Fold the moist ingredients into the dry ingredients just until blended and then fold in the apples. Spoon into prepared muffin tin, filling the cups to the top.

In a small bowl stir together the topping ingredients until well-blended. Sprinkle this over the tops of the muffins. Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven or until the tops of the muffins spring back when lightly pressed.

Note: I added some nutmeg to the dry ingredients just cuz I happen to like it with apples. Personally, I don't think they needed the topping.

Austyn ate probably half of these each day. Every time I turned around he had a muffin in his hands. I started calling him the Muffin Man.

It's Halloween!

2011-10-31T07:55:00.003-06:00

More Beautiful Fall Pictures

2011-10-29T18:29:00.000-06:00

Here's some more pretty pictures of Utah in the autumn time. This is going to be sensory overload so hold on to you hat. I don't think the colors of fall have EVER been so beautiful.

The first four were taken in the Wasatch and Uintah Mountains here east of Salt Lake. The last was taken during sunset in the West Desert the west side of Salt Lake. (Only two are mine and the rest were emailed to me by various friends or family.) I truly feel so blessed to live here and enjoy the various seasons BUT, as you know, our winters last WAY too long. I'm holding on to these beautiful days as long as I can.

Thanks for offering to walk with me during these beautiful autumn days here in Utah. Afterwards we would come back to the house and enjoy a nice cup of hot apple cider with fresh homemade donuts. MMMM! (Hey, do you think they could be made with sugar substitute? -- I'm off to check that out.)

Check out this yummy sounding recipe for baked apple cider donuts.

Autumn in Utah

2011-10-29T06:19:00.005-06:00

Isn't it beautiful? Oh how I love autumn in Utah. The colors are just so magnificent. I can't get enough of them.

I wish you were here to take a walk with me.

2011-10-28T13:58:00.000-06:00

Do you need a hug today? Boy, I do. Here's one for both of us.
Crochet? what's that? between the 6-year-old here and the sore arm, not much of that going on. Hope you're getting a chance to use your hooks or needles.

From One Gorgeous Gal to Another

2011-10-27T12:18:00.002-06:00

A friend sent this to me today. I'm happy to share it with the rest of my gorgeous gal pals.

Halloween Party Ends in STITCHES!

2011-10-26T11:31:00.001-06:00

Last night was the Halloween party at the church. Dinner was at six but we had already eaten so we went for dessert and the festivities. Of course Austyn went as Peter Pan and was first in line for face painting. He only wanted his eyebrows done so he looked "older" he said. They then immediately ran off to chase each other around. Five minutes go by. The Hubster goes to check on him and finds him in one of the classrooms with a bunch of other kids. Everything is fine and he heads back to the main party area. Austyn runs around the other side of the church and is to me even before The Hubster is. Screaming! Crying! and Blood! running down his face. One of the big kids scared him and he turned right into the corner of a brick wall. Here we are at the ER. He's smiling bravely for me (so I can send the picture to his mom and dad and they will know he is okay -- they were both at work).

Such a brave little man. Five stitches. They could have glued it but it was very ragged. See the red bandage on his arm? We think that might have been rug burn. Also, check out that eyebrow -- it DOES make him look older, don't you think? TeeHee. Poor brave little man.

Oh, by the way, we made Pam's Fall Casserole and it was delicious. This is what you need:

3 potatoes, peeled and sliced

Several carrots (I used a package of the pre-sliced kind)

1 onion, sliced in rings

1 pound hamburger (fried)

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 can French onion soup

1 can water

Spray your pan with cooking spray. I layered mine with potatoes, carrots, all the hamburger, onion and another layer of potatoes, carrots and onions. Mix all the wet ingredients together and pour over the top. Cover with foil and bake at 325 for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Very good -- a true comfort food. We loved it. (Pam, I did this from memory -- did I leave anything out?) This is so easy and so delicious. You gotta try it.

Everything Seems to Take So Long

2011-10-25T08:35:00.000-06:00

It seems that since I hurt my shoulder that EVERYthing seems to take so much longer. I finally finished the scarf that I started AGES ago -- so long that I can't even remember. I had Nacole model it for me last night.

I know I've been taking it with me to Knit/Crochet Club for at least two months. (Please ignore the mess in the background -- the grandson is here and he thinks my bedroom is his personal playroom.)

Yesterday we went to the park. We had a lot of fun. Austyn said, "Nana, this was the BEST day I have ever had at your house." It's so easy to please little children, isn't it? Today is a trip to the dollar store. He earned some money doing the dusting and it's burning a hole in his pocket.

Tonight is the Halloween Party at the church. Austyn is so excited. He gets to wear his Peter Pan costume.

Just a little more Maxine . . .

That Maxine -- she cracks me up!

2011-10-24T09:30:00.001-06:00

While I'm not a big Halloween fan -- I think it's kind of a CREEPPPPY holiday -- I like watching the kids get all excited about it. Do you get all dressed up too?

Here's a big shout-out to Pammy Sue. I made her crockpot beef and gravy over the weekend and it was really good and SOOO easy. The first night we had it over noodles and the next we had it over mashed potatoes. YUMMY! Thanks, Pam.

Flavorful Beef and Gravy

3 pounds stew meat

2 cans cream of mushroom soup

1 can water

3 cubes beef boullion

Spray your crockpot with cooking spray. Add the beef. Mix all the remaining ingredients together in a bowl and pour it over the beef. Cook on low for 8 hours. You can add some thickening at the end if you want. I did and I also added a half cup of sour cream before serving. This is delicious!

THE Pumpkin

2011-10-23T12:46:00.000-06:00

Introducing the Barfing Pumpkin!

Austyn is here for a week while he's off-track at school. He brought his very own home-grown pumpkin with him last night to carve. He was so proud of it. His mother's pumpkin is nearly twice as big as Austyn's but Austyn's sunflowers put everyone else's to shame. They were huge and he's so excited about having his own sunflower seeds. What an awesome learning experience it was for him.

Anyway, he wanted to carve his pumpkin last night and do it himself. He scooped all the seeds out by himself and everything. He carved nearly the entire thing with a table knife. The top of this pumpkin was as thick at the knife blade was long. Grandpa had to help him with the eyebrows and getting the eyes even and afterwards Austyn tells me, "Me and Grandpa are a GREAT team, don't you think?" I sure do. He finished it last night just in time to light it out on the sidewalk. Grandpa brought it in later so no one would steal or break it. The teenagers around here are notoriously bad for busting pumpkins out on the highways. Brats!

Just in time for Halloween

2011-10-22T10:24:00.001-06:00

Do you remember this old cartoon?

Boy, I do!

The skeleton dance is about 2-1/2 minutes into the cartoon and I think that's the best part.

Hats for Charity

2011-10-21T08:30:00.000-06:00

I've been lazy this year and haven't made as many hats for either the Humanitarian Center or the Cancer Center. A lovely lady at crochet/knit club had an entire trunk full of Red Heart yarn she had been given and offered it up. I took 6 skeins of red just for hats and scarves. It's been a while since I used Red Heart and I had forgotten how stiff it is. I made a hat with it yesterday and another at club last night and today my arm is acting up again. I am determined, however, to get a bit more done today on The Languishing Cardigan for The Hubster as it's starting to get colder every day.

If you are interested in the pattern for the Shrug from yesterday's post you can purchase it at www.ashton11.etsy.com. As I said yesterday, it's very easy and comes in lots of sizes. There is also a short sleeve and long sleeve version included in the pattern.

Time for a cuppa -- and some work on The Languishing Cardigan. Have a great day my friends!

Shhhhhhrug

2011-10-20T09:16:00.000-06:00

I found this cute shrug pattern a few days ago. Talk about easy! It took less than one skein of Encore Worsted. It's basically single and double crochets with a K hook. It's going to be a Christmas present for one of the little girls so it's a size S. I've got a cute button that looks like a quarter that I'm going to put on the front -- I think. You know me and buttons. I think that's the hardest part of all trying to decide what looks good. I made it from start to finish yesterday -- that's how easy it was. (I tried every which way to get a better picture of this but being a dark navy it just doesn't come through well. However, if you click on the picture you can see the detail better.)

I forgot to tell you about mom and I going to IHOP. We wanted to try their pumpkin pancakes. Since we knew what we wanted we just sat down and ordered them, shared a side of bacon and each had coffee. Well, the pancakes were pretty tasty but when we got the bill we decided they weren't THAT tasty. With tax but not tip, they came to just under $30. Yes, that's what I said -- $28.++. I nearly fell off the chair. I thought they might be more than their advertised all-you-can-eat buttermilk pancakes for $4.99 but I never dreamed they would be over $8 for a dinky little stack of pancakes. The side of bacon was $6 and the coffee was $3.25 for each of us. That is the very last time I go to IHOP. I'm tellin' ya, that was HIGHWAY ROBBERY at its finest.

I opened the newspaper yesterday to a shock. A dear friend's picture was in the obituaries. I had worked with her for several years but the last 3 or 4 since our retirements we have communicated only occasionally via emails and holiday cards. I had horrible feelings of guilt all day yesterday as I had no idea she had been ill. It just broke my heart to think that I might have been able to ease some of her pain somehow had I paid more attention and been a better friend. At the very least I could have offered some prayers for comfort for her and her family. It's a reminder that when you think of someone you should act on that prompting and not let it go unheeded.

Well, since you insisted . . .

2011-10-19T08:29:00.000-06:00

I shall relent and show you the few pictures taken on Sunday. Everyone was there to see Grandma and it was "just what I needed." I think she had been pretty lonely.

Mom watching over the festitivities

My nephews Johnathan and David, my sister Jill, my nephew Lon

Nana's Little Sugar Bears Austyn and Brayden

Sunset from the side yard taken by my nephew Lon

We did have a good time. Unfortunately many of my pictures were a bit blurry. I'm not sure what the operator did wrong but she made some mistakes and needs to read the instruction book again (that would be ME).

Usually when mom is here we do a lot of crocheting but this time we just did a lot of visiting and watching movies. She loves the old Westerns and we found a bunch on Netflix. I'm really glad she came.

Today is back to putting a few inches on The Hubster's cardigan. I'm hoping it's warm enough outside I can sit on the deck to work on it.

Have a great day!

I'm B-a-a-a-a-a-c-k!

2011-10-18T11:40:00.001-06:00

Mom's on her way home. We had a great visit. Had a big bash here on Sunday -- 30 people thereabouts. She was thrilled. Will post a few pictures soon. (Like you really care, right?)

My friend, Jan, from Enthusiastic Crochetaholic sent this to me today. They are LMAO funny.

Subject: Texting for us Oldies.....
After all, the kids have all their little codes...like BFF, LOL, etc.

So here are some codes for seniors:

* ATD - At the Doctor's
* BFF - Best Friends Funeral
* BTW - Bring the Wheelchair
* BYOT - Bring Your Own Teeth
* DWI - Driving While Incontinent
* FWIW - Forgot Where I Was
* FYI - Found Your Insulin
* GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low
* GHA - Got Heartburn Again
* HGBM - Had Good Bowel Movement
* IMHO - Is My Hearing-Aid On?
* LMDO - Laughing My Dentures Out
* OMMR - On My Massage Recliner
* OMSG - Oh My! Sorry, Gas
* ROFL..CGU - Rolling on the Floor Laughing...Can't get Up!
* TOT - Texting on Toilet
* WAITT - Who Am I Talking To?
* WTFA - Wet the Furniture Again
* WTP - Where're the Prunes
* WWNO - Walker Wheels Need Oil

Hope these help. GGLKI (Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in!)

The Elusive Cardigan

2011-10-13T05:04:00.003-06:00

Well, I did it. I stuck to my word and worked on the cardigan yesterday. It really is kind of mindless at this point as it is straight Tunisian simple stitch for 30 inches. 30 long stitches. Back and forth. Back and forth. Good though for watching the Conrad Murray/Michael Jackson trial or old Westerns on Encore.

It really does make a nice solid fabric though, don't you think? The yarn is darker than this. It has more brown in it. The flash really brings out the rust color in it. I wonder if the sunlight will do the same thing. I'll have to check that out today and see.

My mom is coming from Idaho tonight. She will stay until Tuesday morning so might not be much blogging going on while she is here. We're going to have a bunch of family over on Sunday. If everyone comes that has been invited there could be at least 25 people here. Burgers and hot dogs with potluck are on the fare. I hope the weather is good so we can spill out onto the back deck.

Preview of what's to come this Halloween

2011-10-12T10:57:00.001-06:00

Can you believe how cute this is? Austyn is going to be Peter Pan for Halloween, his mom is going to be Tinkerbell and her boyfriend is going to be Captain Hook. I can't wait to see them all together. Austyn's mom loves Halloween. She always dresses him up so cute. I don't know if you remember but last year Austyn was one of the Three Musketeers and his mom was his Fair Maiden.

I can't wait to see what Brayden is this year. He was the cutest Spiderman ever last year. Whatever he is will be equally as cute and you can count on their house being all decorated. I know they are doing zombies and mummies in their front yard because she called to see if we had any old shirts they could use. How well she knows her dad. He has a whole closet full of them. He thinks he needs them -- all 30 of them -- to wear when he does odd jobs around the house. He was, however, able to sacrifice a few. I told her to KEEP THEM. ;-)

I'm not going to do anything else today until I work on The Hubster's cardigan. I set it aside when it was too warm to work on wool and now I need to get to it to get it done before it's too warm to work on wool again. Will it help if I whistle while I crochet?

Pasta with Artichoke and Olives

2011-10-11T18:11:00.002-06:00

The beauty of this dish is that it's fast and easy.

What you need:

8 oz. pasta, cooked and drained.

14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes with oregano and basil

6 oz. jar marinated artichoke hearts, including marinade, diced (I just used my spatula and chopped them right in the pan)

2.5 oz. can sliced olives, drained

1/2 c. Parmesan cheese

I added some minced garlic (1/2 tsp.) and some salt and pepper.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan (I used my frying pan), mix together everything except the cheese. Simmer until reduced to about 1/2 the liquid.

Drain pasta and put on a large platter. Pour the tomato, artichoke and olive mixture over. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

We had some breadsticks with it and warm pumpkin bread afterwards. Nice yummy little meal.

Pammy Sue gave me a yummy sounding recipe that has got to be served soon.

I don't know what to do with myself . . .

2011-10-11T08:24:00.001-06:00

Do you ever just wake up in the morning and wonder what you should do today? It's not that I don't have things that I could do, it's just that I'm not sure I want to do any of them.

1. My mom is supposedly coming on Thursday. I say "supposedly" because we have had these plans before and then something comes up and she doesn't make it. We have invited several (like about 30) family members over for dinner on Sunday and there are some plans to make for that as well.

2. I still have some lovely recipes from YOU that I want to make and I need to decide which one will be for dinner tonight. I'm thinking Mindy's Pasta with Artichoke and Olives. Doesn't that sound good?

3. I need a challenging crochet project. I'm working on charity sweaters and beanies plus a bit here and there on The Hubster's cardigan but I need something to sink my teeth into.

See, I'm kind of floating about today. Can't quite seem to get my feet on the floor and off and running. I hope you're not having a similar day.

The Cowl is Done!

2011-10-10T10:08:00.000-06:00

See how beautiful the Saffire yarn drapes? I still have three skeins of this left. I wish I had been able to purchase more but I bought all that she had left of it on the website.

Our son Rob and his wife Amy came up yesterday with their car loaded full of picnic supplies and we headed up Ogden Canyon to see the leaves. We were going to roast hot dogs around a campfire but there were no fire pits or picnic areas up there that were open. We ended up back here but it didn't spoil our good day. It was one of the best we have had in a long time. We stopped at a spot in the road where we could get some good pictures. Here they are in the order taken by our son:

I warned him I was going to put this on my blog. Silly boy! There's nothing like Utah in the fall.

I want to make a shawl or something in these colors. Aren't they gorgeous!

2011-10-09T23:21:00.000-06:00

Just showing off the cutie pies:

"All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth."

"When I grow up I want to be just like Grandpa -- with something weird on my head."

We'll have a more serious post tomorrow. I just couldn't help myself. My grandkids are just so DANG cute.

Sapphire Cowl

2011-10-08T11:10:00.003-06:00

I was wrong. The yarn is not Symphony -- it is called Sapphire. Here's the cowl so far. Easy stitch pattern. Should be finished after this skein.

I like how it's coming together and it truly is soft. This yarn is marked $7.25 per skein but I got it for $2.76. It has 307 yards and is DK weight.

Cindy's Asparagus Pasta

2011-10-07T23:08:00.003-06:00

Cindy sent me a recipe for Asparagus Pasta. Now, this is a family that loves asparagus so I knew it would be right up our alley. What's not to like about these ingredients?

1 pound penne pasta
A bit of oil
1 pound fresh asparagus, cut in 1"pieces
1 lg red bell pepper, cut in pieces
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
2-3 cups roasted chicken, cubed
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan
fresh basil, chopped
salt, pepper
minced jalapenos, optional

Cook pasta to package directions. Drain. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook asparagus over medium high heat in a small amount of oil for about 4 minutes. Add bell pepper and garlic. Cook another 2 minutes. Stir in chicken and chicken broth. Reduce to half. In a very large serving dish, toss together pasta, vegetables with broth, Parmesan, basil and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot or cold. Do not reheat.

Do you see anything wrong with this dish? What, you don't see any chicken? Well, at the market today I purchased three pieces of freshly roasted chicken from the deli specifically for this dish. When I went to make it the chicken was nowhere to be found. I looked EVERYwhere. I'm serious. I could not find those pieces of chicken. So, here is everything else all chopped and ready to go. I did have three large links of turkey sausage left so I removed the casings and we used the sausage. You know how some things turn out well even when you substitute an ingredient? Well, this was one of those. The turkey sausage was delicious in this recipe. I will make it again with the chicken when I have a chance but let me just say that we loved this dish. Thank you, Cindy. It was scrumptious and I sincerely apologize for the substitution.

I'm working on a cowl with some lovely yarn called Symphony. It's in a color labeled "lemon" but it's not a bright lemon, it's a very subdued and pale yellow. This yarn is SOOOOOO soft and yummy. Hopefully there will be some light tomorrow so I can get a good picture. It's been very dark and dreary here the last few days. We had snow about halfway down the side of the mountains this morning. I am not ready for snow. Anyway, I can't wait to show you the cowl I am making. It's going to be a long one so that it will wrap around the neck twice and when needed part of it can be flipped up over your head to keep out the wind and snow. I hope it turns out as well as I hope.

Testing, Testing, One, Two, Three

2011-10-07T08:24:00.001-06:00

Don't ya love it?

I just finished testing a Tunisian sweater for a friend. It's the cutest little thing you have ever seen. Mine was in a size 1 but it goes up to a size 4T. I wish I could show you the whole sweater but better not until she gets it published on Ravelry. There is a boy version (Henley-style) and a girl version (with cute cuffs and collar). I did the little boy version. Here's just a peek while I was working on it:

Our water was shut off all day yesterday. I guess a water main broke in the condo complex somewhere during the middle of the night. We finally got water again last night about 8:30 p.m. It's amazing how many times I went to the sink to wash my hands or get a drink. Fortunately we had several milk jugs filled with water downstairs and we were able to use those for flushing the toilets, etc. (Gotta remember now to fill them back up.) While at Sam's Club a while back I bought a big box of antiseptic hand wipes in little packets and those came in handy. Today will be spent catching up on laundry and dishwashing.

We took the easy way out last night and grilled hot dogs so no delicious recipe to report today. Tonight, however, we are having Cindy's Asparagus Pasta. I can't wait. It sounds SOOOOO yummy. I can't wait to share it with you.

Gloria's Stuff'd Green Peppers on the Menu

2011-10-05T23:02:00.002-06:00

Gloria sent me this wonderful Stuff'd Green Pepper recipe. Delicious!

1 c long-grain brown rice
4 lg green peppers, bottoms trimmed, cap end cut off and diced with seeds removed (I used both red and green because I like the red the very best)
1 lg onion, diced
2 tsp olive oil
2 links turkey Sweet Italian Sausage
1/2 tsp ground fennel
1/2 tsp dried Greek or Turkish oregano (I used regular)
1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese
salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
1/4 c grated Mozzarella cheese

Cook rice according to package directions. Preheat oven to 375. Trimming the bottom of the peppers helps them stand in the baking dish. Place hollowed-out peppers in a baking dish you've sprayed with non-stick spray or olive oil. Remove stem part from the pepper caps and trim off membrane then dice the pepper bits. Add with onion to 2 tsp olive oil in a large skillet and cook until they start to soften. Remove pepper/onion mixture to a bowl and add 1 tsp olive oil. Squeeze sausage out of the casing and cook until it's lightly browned breaking apart with the back of the turner.

Put the onion/pepper mixture back into the pan with the sausage, add the spices and saute 2-3 minutes. Add cooked rice and Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper and cook until mixture is warm.

Stuff the filling into the peppers and press the mixture down so it's tightly packed into the pepper shell. If you have any extra filling (which I didn't) you can put it into a small ramekin and bake along with the peppers. Bake for 30 minutes, remove from oven and put a generous pinch of mozzarella on top. Put them back into the oven and bake until cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve hot.

Served with corn and bakery breadstix.

Thank you Gloria! This is yummy. I especially loved the flavor of the lean turkey sausage. This is definitely a keeper.

Dr. Michael's Yeasted Cornbread and One Hysterical Moment

2011-10-04T22:38:00.001-06:00

I found this recipe on Allrecipes and have made it several times. It's called Dr. Michael's Yeasted Cornbread. It's delicious! It went very well with the leftover soup tonight. (As usual, I think soup is always better the second day anyway.) The recipe for the bread is as follows:

3-1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp white sugar
3 tbsp shortening
1 cup milk
1 egg
2-1/2 tsp active dry yeast

I warmed the milk slightly in the microwave (only about 20 seconds). I poured it in the mixing bowl of the bread maker and added the shortening. While the shortening was softening in the warm milk, I prepared the rest of the ingredients and layered them in the bread machine by liquids first and then dry ingredients. It should be noted that you never want your salt to touch your yeast. I always put the salt in with the liquids. This makes a nice large loaf. The cornmeal is barely recognizable but does give this loaf a nice dense texture. Great for toast -- if there is any left over.

Note: If you go to allrecipes.com and look up the recipe you will see it also calls for 1/8 cup water. I have found when I have added this that my loaf kind of sinks in the middle but if I don't then it's beautifully well-rounded when it bakes.

Naughty alert!

Tonight some people came over to invite our step-granddaughters to our young women church group. One of our leaders commented she had served a religious mission in the Philippines. The 13-year-old step-granddaughter says:

"I had a teacher in the sixth grade that was Philapenis."

I'm absolutely not kidding. Of the four men and five women sitting our living room not a single one of them laughed -- for two seconds of stunned silence -- then the entire room erupted. Everyone was laughing so hard they had tears streaming down their cheeks. Poor little girl turned vibrant red the minute she realized what she had said. It was one of those moments that will be repeated at every family gathering from now until kingdom come. I can tell you that I, for one, will never hear the words "Philippines" or "Filipino" again without cracking up.