Girls can be nerds too!

Yay Fall!

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:17:55 GMT

I love fall. It is my absolute favorite season. I love the weather....hoodie and jeans weather! It's not too cold, and definitely not too hot. It's the perfect weather for hiking. I also think it's beautiful when the leaves start changing colors. On top of that, there is my favorite holiday, Halloween! We go hardcore and make a haunted house, I usually make my own costume, and have a slew of parties. I am greatly looking forward to it. Not to mention all the festivals...Oktoberfest, Prairie Fest, Scarecrow Fest, Alpaca Days...and the activities...corn mazes, haunted houses, ghost tours/walks, Rocky Horror, apple picking, raspberry picking, pumpkin patches/picking/carving, and Fright Fest. October is going to be a busy month, but I'm so exited ad know I'll love every minute of it! November, things start to settle down, We tear down the haunted house, and start getting ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I also enjoy these Holidays. I find September-January very fun and festive and I can't wait to hop back into it all again.

We are already working on new mechanics for a new room in the haunted house this year...hopefully it works out. I've been enjoying the weather and got to go to an alpaca farm and Oktoberfest for real German food over the weekend (haven't had real German food in a while now). Unfortunately the wind has been horrible the past two days, but once it dies down I am looking forward to bike rides and hiking trips as well. Now if only I could figure out my costume....I only have 1 month and I may have to work without a pattern for this one (I want to copy a costume that I am way to cheap to buy!).

Before I can even begin that (well except haunted house stuff...that always comes first in October), I have to finish/make more placemats for my mom, make pillow-blankets for my cousins, finish that baby blanket (It's a curse I swear!). If I have time and money I will then make my costume. After that comes holiday knitting....so far I have on the docket: dishcloths and hand towels (towel toppers really) for my Grandma, Twilight/Bella long mittens for Candi (maybe...she sort of knows about them so I'm not sure if they'll be a gift or not). I need to stat thinking though, because if I'm adding more hand-mades to the list I need to get moving.

I am also finishing up my Tim Burton swap...man is this thing taking more out of me than I thought! My original spoilee had to drop out (so sad!), so I had about 1.5 weeks to revamp my package. I was not able to meet my previous expectations, but it is still going to be good. Changing things up left me with some items that I don't really have a need or use for, so I have decided to send them on to my original spoilee since she had a legitimate and unfun reason to drop out. While it will not be the awesome package I had i mind, I hope it will still help cheer her up :)

After this swap I am in the Winter Sanity Saver swap which sounds very fun and much more simple. The basic jist is send everything needed to complete a small project your spoilee will enjoy and be able to carry around the work on during the craziness of the winter holidays. I like this idea, it's cute and simple, and provides a bit of fun and extra surprise to your winter holiday season. It will probably be my last for a while. Things are starting to get busy and I barely made it with this last one when it came down to the time crunch. Also after the holidays I'll be saving up money since I'm still temping and can't assume I will have a steady paycheck.

In other news...my birthday is Friday, which is exciting. The boy bought my present and it arrived last Friday...so when we hung out on Saturday he decided to surprise me with it! It's a gorgeous diamond bracelet...I'm so excited about it still. It's very simple and dainty, but perfect for my daily style. It's so pretty I only wanted to wear it on special occasions but he said he searched for something that I could and would wear every day. So I have been, and I get all giddy every time I look at it. It's nothing big or flashy, but it's still beautiful :D

I'm a nerd...

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:28:00 GMT

Not only because this is my second post in one day (I did not want to edit the other one, it was way to rambly as it is), but because of why I am making this second post, which is....D4 dice bag revisited.

I got bored and needed a break from Tim Burton and baby-blanketing (ha...ha...). I decided to revisit the dice bag, intending to get it done before our game of D&D Sunday afternoon. I didn't get it done in time, but M and I ended up not being able to go anyway. I am quite happy with the results. Looking back on my previous post on the different methods, it appears I used Triangle 2 (even down to the color!), the only change being a 15st base instead of 16...I think. I'll provide the actual pattern again, just in case.

But before that, pictures of my success:

The top two are of the side and corner, with it standing up right. The bottom two are the top and bottom

And now, the pattern:

ch 16
Row 1: sc 15, ch1
Row 2: sc2tog, to last 2 st (for row 2 this is sc11), sc2tog, ch1
Row 3: sc across row (for row 3 this is sc13), ch1
repeat rows 2 and 3 until you have 3st remaining, ending on an odd row (row 13)
Row 14: sc2tog, sc1, ch1
Row 15, sc2tog, ch1

Begin edge:
sc1 into last st, sc 13 along side, sc3 into corner, sc13 along bottom, sc3 into corner, sc13 along side, sc2 into last st from triangle (where you sc your first st of edging), sl st and tie off

Make 4 triangles. I found it easier to sew on the numbers before assembly. Here's a somewhat guide of where to place the numbers on each triangle (not oriented right, but it at least shows positioning):

1 1 1 4
/ \ / \ / \ / \
2 - 3 3 - 4 4 - 2 3 - 2

To seam up, I attached the three sides to the bas triangle first. I oriented it so that #1 was on top, because then the embroidery didn't show up so much (gratned if you are replicating the D4 where the numbers appear on the sides, not corners, and your roll therefore shows up at the bas nto the tip, this won't be an issue at all). I then seamed up each side to the base of #1 (I'd say about the 3rd or 4th row down, not counting the edging). I originally did this with the seams inside and I think it looks great. After I did the seaming though, I realize you really wouldn't have to turn it inside out because it looked just fine (minus the ugly side of the embroidery).

I didn't attach a string yet. It will be drawstron, much like my first one, I just haven't gotten around to it. The pictures are of the bag already full of dice too n_n

So have fun, and let me know if this works out for you.

And yes...those pictures are taken on my Eberron campaign book, and it is in front of my "fantasy shelf" which includes D&D books, "magic" books, tarot cards, runes, and obviously a fairy....However, we are no longer playing 3rd/3.5 any longer. e have moved on to 4th, which crapped up clerics in my opinion (I love clerics, but I can't make a very good one any more u_u maybe once I level up I will ike it more....althoguh I do miss beign a gnome so we shal see what lies ahead lol).

Knitterly things...and other stuff

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:58:34 GMT

So I have been in the midst of another swap, the theme of which is TIM BURTON! I've been having an awesome time planning this out. I fear I may have bitten off more than I can chew and may not complete it on time. I am mostly done with all my items except the big one which I am just starting, and I's like to buy some treats. I think I have enough time to finish, but we shall see. I have a back-up plan though if my big item doesn't work out. I just can't wait.

Yesterday I received a "door prize" from my last swap. I got nervous thinking people were already sending out their im Burton swap packages, but it was quickly availed when I saw what was inside. I am going to have lots of fun with my catwoman fold and mail stationary and yummy alpaca blend (LOVE alpaca!).

While working in my Burton swap, my puppy decided to join in the fun. Enjoy some pictures of her and her newfound toy. (Yes, that yarnball is officially hers now. It was pretty small though so I guess it's ok. For comparison she is only an 8 pound dog)

Caught in the act, then posing for the camera as I take another shot. What a cutie, eh? I had another full skein and she was having so much fun, I just couldn't get mad at her. I swear this dog loves yarn more than a cat!

In other news...I am STILL working on that baby blanket. It's just so boring that it is taking forever. I really need to get crackinh on it htough. I haven't evenstarted the bunny for it. Totoro is still on the back burner too.

I also bought scribblenauts today. Kicking myself for not preordering because I missed out ont he Maxwell hat ;_; But the guy at gamestop (I frequnt that particular one waaaay too much), said that if they aren't all claimed by saturday I can stop in Sunday morning and get one w00t! I haven't beaten the first world yet, but I alread love it. I do enjoy 5th cell, and discovered I own all 3 of their DS games (Scribblenauts, Drawn to Life, and Lock's Quest). They are al good games for both advanced and beginner gamers (as me and the boy both enjoy them...apparently I'm a beginner...I always thought intermediate but the boy told me I was wrong lol).

Other than that there's not much going on. OH! One of my bestest frinds and my partner in crime is movinh back to Illinois, only a half hour away so I'm super excited. I am looking forward to much fun and many adventures. Also we plan to knit on the porch and throw cats at the passing children...good times.

I am still in need of a job...I temp, but that doesn't give me steady work. Also the place I've been at recently totally sucks. I really don't like it there, but what am I going to do? The place I love just does not have an opening to hire me which also sucks. I would absolutely LOVE to work there but...I can't. The one receptionist wants a different position too...If she ever gets it I am a shoe-in!

This is a very random update post. I am not doing so well on etsy either. i have fun making jewelry but cant afford their marketing galleries and showcases, so my stuff doesn't really get out there. If you want, please check it out at the link in the top post and help support me! I'm thinking about changing things up and maybe going a more crafty route. We shall see.

I suppose that is all. Sorry for the jumbledness.

Wally Whale

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 16:37:28 GMT

I have designed an amigurumi whale! Well...mostly. He is still in the works, and my prototype is not as pretty as it could be (color-wise...also lack of eyes :p). I wanted a cute whale with a big round head and forked tail, but I also wanted to be able to work it all in one continuous piece. For anyone interested here is the working pattern for...

Wally Whale

I wanted to make a whale...I don't know why. I just thought it would be so cute! Somewhere in the back of my head was the idea it could be a toy for my puppy. She has definitely taken a liking to my first attempt, the pattern for which is this, which I wrote as I went. Be patient as there may be mistakes in it. I plan on making another to test it myself, but I welcome other testers to help me clean it up!

Materials:
Hobby Lobby I Love This yarn! sport weight in Bright Blue (or any blue yarn)
small amounts of white/pink, and black--optional
size H crochet hook
small amount of polyfill

Gauge is not so important. You just want to make sure the stuffing doesn't show.

Directions:

Head/Body:
using blue, sc 6 into magic circle
Round 1: sc2 into each st--12st
Round 2: sc each st around
Round 3: (sc2 into next st, sc 1) around--18st
Round 4: (sc2 into next st, sc 2) around--24 st
Round 5-6: sc each st around
Round 7: (sc2 into next st, sc 3) around--30st
Round 8-10: sc each st around
Round 11: (sc2 int next st, sc 4) around--36st
Round 12: sc each st around
If desired, you can embroider eyes and a mouth onto the head now. I waited until the end, but at this point you don't have stuffing ot battle. (If you chose to do eyes and mouth now, use next 3 st as the front center of the head.)

Stomach:
This section will be worked flat with the first and last stitch of each row being worked on the edge of the circle for the head/body. You can switch to white or pink for the stomach if you want.

Row 1: sc nest three st in head/body. ch1 and turn
Row 2: sc 5 st, ch1 and turn
Row 3: sc 7 st, ch1 and turn
Row 4: sc 9 st, ch1 and turn
Row 5: sc 11 st, ch1 and turn
Row 6: sc 13 st, ch1 and turn
Row 7: sc 15 st, ch1 and turn
Row 8-11: sc2tog, sc 13, sc2tog, ch1 and turn
you might want to begin stuffing now, but only about halfway. Continue stuffing as you go.

Row 12: sc2tog x2, sc 9, sc2tog x2, ch1 and turn
Row 13: sc2tog x2, sc 7, sc2tog x2, ch1 and turn
Row 14: sc2tog x2, sc 5, sc2tog x2, ch1 and turn
Row 15: sc2tog x2, sc 3, sc2tog x2, ch1 and turn
Row 16: sc2tog x2, sc 1, sc2tog x2, ch1 and turn
Row 17: sc2tog, sc3tog, sc2tog, ch1 and turn
You still have an opening, albeit small, so finish stuffing your body now. (Or you can completely stuff from this point, it's just a little harder to get the shaping down.)

Not only does this let you work in one continuous piece, I like the ribbing effect it gives to the stomach.

Note: I'm not sure if it is rows 8-11 or rows 8-10. When I did this I did four rows, but the math says it should only be three since you need to have 3st from the head/body untouched.

Tail
If you switched out colors for the stomach, go back to blue now. Also this section is worked in the round again until you get to the split in the fin. You should be down to 6st--3 from the stomach and 3 from the head/body.

Round 1-2: sc each st around--6st
Round 3: (sc2 into next st, sc 1) around--9st
Round 4-5: sc each st around
Round 6: (sc2 into next st, sc 2) around--12 st

If you want to give a little more body to the tail, you may do so now by adding a little stuffing before moving on to the fin.

Fin
Switch to working flat again, continuing in blue.

Row 1: sc first 9 st of tail, ch1 and turn
Row 2: sc2tog, sc 4, ch1 and turn
Row 3: sc2tog, sc 3, ch1 and turn
Row 4: sc2tog, sc 2, ch1 and turn
Row 5: sc2tog, sc 1, (ch1 and turn)*
Fold the triangle you have formed in half, and sc a border along the edge (5st).

You should now be at the base of the fin and ready to start the other half. To do so, repeat from Row 2 down. You should end where the fin splits. Break yarn and tie off, weaving end into Wally.

*optional--I did not do the ch1 at this point, but it won't really chagne the onverall look of Wally. Use your discretion and do what you prefer n_n

Note: I'm not sure about the first step of sc 9. It worked for me and looked right. But after my puppy has played with wally, his tail seems to have turned and his fin is going up and down more than left and right. This could just be form playing, or because I need to adjust this first step.
Finishing
If you have not emboidered the eyes yet adn still wish to have eyes, do so now. You may also embroider a mouth. I think it would look best at the jount of head and stomach, so I would wait until this point to sew it on. You may do so earlier as noted in he pattern if you want his mouth to be higher up on the head.

Note: I have not made any side fins (didn't want to sew on somthign my puppy could rip off mostly), but if you wish you may crochet some and sew them on to the body. I would probably crochet a small shell and fold it in half, sc the edges together and using hte fold as a point to sew onto the body at the seam between body and stomach. I may go back and try to test this out, maybe in a way to keep with the one continuous piece idea (puppy-safe!). Since I haven't tested this out yet, this is just an idea. If you do make you own side fins let me know what you do and how they work out.

Knitting Geekery

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:53:03 GMT

So I was doing some image browsing for various Burton films, toys, etc when I came across Nightmare themed stitch markers. They are so cute! And well done...well I go to the image's page and to my delight it is an etsy store! She has Jack needles too. Full of tons and tons of cute knitting accessories, I just had to share!

As for why...I was doing some research for my Tim Burton swap package. I have narrowed down my ideas and am ready to go...there is just one item I am debating about, mostly because of price. I have time so we shall wait and see. Meanwhile...I take this craft-group swap waaaaay to serious (in case you didn't see my last one, I made: stitch markers, painted needles, a keychain, a purse, and I modified a tote), so I have lots of designing and testing to do. I am so excited about this swap, I may have to make two of everything for me! (Testing may be useful n_n).

I've got one design done, another in the works (it will require testing), and one more to do. Beyond that I am halfway through a handmade project, and have yet one to figure out still...that one is going to give me problems, I just know it! But if it works out it will be very cool. Then a few purchased items as well, one of which I haven't quite made up my mind on yet. Oh how I wish I could say more, but the availability to cyber stalk means my spoilee's suprised coul be...spoiled. lol

Web Browsing and Charts

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:17:06 GMT

It's amazing what random web browsing will get you. I found an interesting blog: Things You Wouldn't Know If We Didn't Blog It. It kind of reminds me of that catalog Things You Never Knew Existed...just lots of random info. However it is because of that blog that I found this: The Case of the Exploding Knitting Needle. Who knew?

Onto more...my...other...knitting related news, I have finished my super hero swap. My package was received my Louielouie on August 3rd. She loved it and I am so glad. It was insanely fun for me to put together. Now that the package has been received, I feel safe in posting my chart for the purse. I have no problem posting hte chart, as it can be used for multiple projects. The purse pattern itself was free, so please use it yourself if you want to ake your own. It is a great pattern and so easy to follow!

(The 4 stitches in the box marked with a dotted line are where you work the button hole)

I think this is the chart that I used. If not is is pretty close, but I ill double check. I also have therows typed up stitch by stitch for anyone that wants them n_n

If you are interested in how I altered Scott to make the keychain, pm me and I will gladly tell you what rows I did the color changes on. I won't post it all though as the pattern is not mine to claim. You will still need to purchase your own copy of Scott, and I will tell you when I switched the colors if you want to make your own :)

Today I just got my new swap partner for the Tim Burton swap...needless to say I am so excited. So many ideas are going through my head, I just don't know which way I am going to go yet. Good thing I still have two months :p

On a side note...I was looking through the thank-you thread in odd duck swaps, and I noticed an o.o.p. box. Naturally I looked it up..."Other People's Plastic," aka non-recyclable items being repurposed. I'm not a huge greeny, but I do like the idea and get excited when I see it being implemented like this. If you are interested, check out TerraCycle Inc. Apparrantly you can get their stuff at Target too n_n

Jobs and Hobbies

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:50:36 GMT

So I just finished a 2.5 week assignment at InCon Tech, covering for their receptionist. It's a small office, but everyone was really nice and I like working there. They told the agency they love me too, so yay! Maybe I can go back there if I don't find myself a full time job soon. Today I am back at Aspen, my favorite place in the world to work. I just love it here, and every time I come back people remember me. It's such an awesome feeling. I would love a real job here, too bad they're on a hiring freeze u_u (at least in the areas I'd qualify for). However, there is a listing for a Police Assistant/Dispatcher job that I am applying for. The qualifications aren't too hefty and I meet them, but I'm sure tons of other people do too. I'm trying to collect some letters of recommendation to boost me up a bit, because I would totally love that job. Wish me luck!

In knitting related news...I finished my Super Hero swap! I am sop excited. It gets mailed today, and I cannot wait for my spoilee to receive it. I hope she loves it, as I had a blast making it. I totally went overboard on the hero-of-choice theme (can't spoil things just yet!). Everything, except for 2 things, are themed. I was going to do some screen printing, but copped out as I found some awesome themed items instead (which made my life easier and gave me more leeway with money). My two yarn-crafted items I am super jealous of an want for myself...and so do members of my family. I was afraid they wouldn't get done, but they did and I love them. I also got a little crafty with clay and paint...can't say much more but I totally went overboard. I don't even know what I spent...and I'm not going to find out. Really the biggest costs were some supplies, most of which I had, and the rest which will be used for future projects so really their whole cost should not be counted n_n I want to post pictures so bad...by Monday I'm hoping.

I have made like no progress on that friggen baby blanket. We were super busy with the house: sanding, priming, and painting the railings (which were totally stripped and redone by the boys); gardening (no weeding for me, but some planting). Meanwhile I got some assignments so I'd work and come home to help, then spend my weekends or free days in Macomb cleaning and packing...2 more weekends! Furniture this weekend, check-out next. But you can see where crafts do not fit in. I believe I'm either 1/3 or 1/2 of the way with the length, then there's the border, and of course the toy bunny to go with it. On top of that, I think I am still supposed to make a toy for my other neighbor's little boy, and of course the kitchen dishcloths (at least they don't have a deadline!). So at this rate, I'll be lucky if these kids get their items before they turn on lol.

I also entered another swap...one is all it took and I'm addicted. There's something about only spending 30 bucks, and taking two months to go crazy with a theme, and then get something cool and awesome from somebody else. If you think about it, its like spending $15 a month on yourself for something cute and fun. So now that I'm done wiht Super Heroes, I'm joining Tim Burton! I just love Ravelry and the Odd Duck Swaps group ^_^ They've got a few others coming up I think I'll like...we shall see if I can join them too. Although if my family likes items from my future swaps as much as they did from this last one, I shall be very very busy (spoiler warning: They loved the key chain and have requested their own, some the same some slightly different).

Let's see....other than that, Etsy has not been going so well n_n Granted I have stopped paying for showcases and haven't really made anything new to add, so that may be why. I just don't want to be stuck with all this jewelry and have nothing to do with it. I may expand into knitting related items too though, I had fun with this last swap and some of the items I made, so we shall see. After the 8th I will be totally moved out, so maybe I'll have more time then to work on items to sell and such. I think that's all for now. A big post to make up for a big break. Once my package gets received, expect a couple psudo-patterns (more like tweaks).

Socks and Woodwork?

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:38:11 GMT

I really want a nice pair of wood sock blockers...but they are so very expensive. I've found some DIY suggestions involving plastic place mats, cardboard, and even wire hangers. I think I should be able to adopt this to make my own wooden sets. I have a jigsaw and a band saw so that shouldn't be too much of a problem. I even have a belt sander...so unless I want ot make a pretty design at the top, I'm not at a loss for tools. The wood should not be too expensive, and if I go with say 1/8-1/4" I might be able to carve out designs anyway. I also have a wood burner so I suppose that is another option.

Now...to just figure out the sizes. I could base them off my own socks but I wear a tiny size 4, so I don't see those blockers working very well for any other socks I knit. From what I see the basic sizing goes as follows: Small fits women's sizes 5-7, Medium fits women's sizes 7.5-9.5, Large fits women's sizes 10 and up as well as general men's sizes. On Average they seem to measure 8.25 inches from heel to top, with knee highs being about 6 inches taller. I'm thinking I will maybe go buy cheapy socks in these sizes, or raid my family's socks if they happen to know their sizes, and use them as the foot pattern. I may have to make a size Extra-Small too, so accommodate my tiny feet. Maybe XL too, what do you think?

After writing this out, it seems like way more work , time, and money than it's worth. But realistically how much can a piece of 4x8 1/8" thick wood cost? And the socks wont be too pricey. I'm sure we have stain and varnish, so no money for that either. Really I will at most spend what one pair of nice wooden blockers will cost, and hopefully have a nice set for myself. It's been a while since I've played with power tools anyway. Plus they will be unique n_n

This may not happen for a while, but I have a hait of losing my notes on things like this, so now I share them with you all! At least I can find them ^_^

Swaps, Projects, Redecorating, Festivals

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:34:17 GMT

Well 2 weeks is quite a long time to go without an update. I have moved out maybe half of my stuff from my apartment, but since I have the lease until August 8th, I'm in no rush. I've also been cleaning/rearranging my room back home which involves a mega huge spring cleaning task, plus redecorating which involves old and new furniture, painting and carpeting. SO moving home in sections was a good idea. There's so much else to do at my house besides my room. We have to finish the outside of the house, which involves a new railing for our porches and redoing the shutters. Not too hard but very time consuming, and we need it done in time for Candi's grad party on July 18th...very busy.

On top of all that I have lots of projects I want to get done, not to mention summer classes. I'm STILL working on that baby blanket; two elephants, Totoro and the peeps have been shoved on the back burner; I need to make 2 baby toys yet. I want to make more hair pins and sets for my etsy shop too, but we will see when I get time. I also joined this Super Hero swap an Ravelry which I am insanely excited about. I have all sorts of plans for my spoilee, I can barely contain myself. I will post more on that later on, like after I mail it, just in case she checks here. It's not reciprocal so really I guess its not very likely, but just in case...

In the meantime there are festivals to be had. St Charles just had River Fest, which sadly I attended all 3 days. It was pretty fun. I got to see the dragon boat races and water ski show, check out some shops, listen to some bands, eat. I missed the car shows though :( I really like those but I managed to miss both of them. It was fun nonetheless. Next week Geneva is having Swedish Days/Misommar Fest. It goes on for a think all of next week or so, so that should be fun. One of my favorite bands broke up and formed a few others, an done of those bands is playing so I'm excited to see them. So for any Troubled Hubble fans, Kid You'll Move Mountains willl be playing next Friday night!!! Should be good times, and I'm sure I'll be spending a lot of my week there like a loser.

SQUEEE....swaps!

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:50:19 GMT

I am so excited for my super hero swap on Ravelry. This is the first time I've done one, but I love making/giving stuff to other people. It's so much fun. Plus the idea of a surprise package arriving at my door is so exciting!!!! I can't wait to find out who I am spoiling and get to work on their package. I have all kinds of ideas, but I want to make it personal so I have to wait until the survey info is in. Good thing I have 2 months to get this all done, as my ideas may take some time. Hopefully I can update you on my package, as I am so excited about all the things I can do and make for it. But I don't want to spoil it, so maybe you'll just hear about it a little an details and pictures will wait until later.

In the meantime, I've been getting settled at home. I packed and cleaned some of the apartment, and am now at home tryint to clean my room, which involves cleaning, sorting stuff(keep, throw away, goodwill, etc), packing up old stuff to put in storage, and trying to find places for everything I've just brought back. I have to go back down to Macomb a few more times to finish clenaing and getting everything back yet, but our official move out date isn't until August 8th. We are also going down this weekend, I think, to try and get some things taken care of. The both of us forgot our siblings' HS graduation is Sunday though, so we may have to reschedule the trip or cut it short. Eventually I will be fully moved back.

I'm also trying to get myself a job up here. The economy is not making this easy, luckily I've been temping with a local employment agency on my school breaks for the past 4 years, so I have some help there. I have a temp assignment coming up, and actually went on an interview today. I'm really hoping I can find a full-time position at hte place I usually temp at, but who knows. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

Other than tha tI've just been really busy cleaning, job hunting, and puppy training. All my projects have been temporarily put on hold. Hopefully I can get back to them in a week or two. Along with my video games...haven't played in forever :( Once I do, there should be more posting!!!

So busy...

Wed, 20 May 2009 23:15:03 GMT

So Matt and I are heading back home tomorrow...and we are nowhere near packed! Granted we have the lease through August 8, but we're going to be staying at home, so we need to bring a lot back this time. We're planning a few trips down to get the rest, but we still need clothes, and stuff that we use daily. I'm excited to go home, but have a feeling I'm going to get conned into helping get ready for my sister's party...which I think is dumb because she's had all month and wastes her time constantly. So not too pleased about that. Plus I just got my room cleaned down here, and now I'm going to have to clean hardcore as soon as I get home, also not fun. On the bright side there is way more to do in STC, I'm trying to get a job at Aspen which I love!, and I get to see my puppies and bunny who I miss so much! Not to mention all my friends are there or close to there, and one of my favorite people might be moving back!

I've been procrastinating also, so that's making things worse. Matt sucks at cleaning though and I've done a lot so I feel burned out. I'm also trying to get time to work on that blanket...it takes along time. It's beautiful, but I don't have hours at a time to sit down and work on it, and of the little bit of time I do get I spend quite a bit untangling the three balls of yarn. I wouldn't mind, but I think my mom wants it in a timely fashion, although she won't tell me what that means. She asked me right before finals, so I had a week of studying, a week of finals, and then a week of packing/cleaning. Sure makes it hard to get anywhere on this thing. As soon as I get home I have to make placemats, then clean my room. Not to mention any other chores.projects. And if I'm lucky...a job! It's going to be hard ot get this blanket done. Not ot mention to tyo to go with it, and the toy for our other neighbor....I'm going to be so busy!!!

As if tht isn't enough...I'm still trying ot learn how to spin, I want to make Waldorf dolls, purses, and many many other things. Plus all the projects on my needles. I'm also thinking of adapting my piggy kitchen into a piggy ktichen/bathroom set. I figure the washcloths go either way, then a hotpad, and toilet paper roll cover...dunno about anything else.

I made lemon-pepper chicken last night which was delicious! I recommend it (Not lemon pepper the singluarl spice, but lemon and pepper). I found it online, but it's so easy and very healthy. Olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chicken breasts. And it's baked! Just need ot figure out what would go best with it as a meal, and I may try it out at home one night.

Currently I'm watching this show on Aniaml Planet about feral (wild) children. It's talking about real kids who grew up in the wild and/or acted like teh animals around them. Very interesting. I recommend checking it out.

I've probably wasted too much time online today, so I guess it's time to go back to laundry and packing. I should probably try to get some of the major cleaning in too, since who knows when we'll get back down here.

Cooking, babies, and a wedding... (not all related)

Sun, 10 May 2009 22:19:29 GMT

I made Chicken Kiev for the first time last night. It is really easy to make and tastes delicious! I'm not much of a chicken person, but between the breading and butter compote I was quite happy. Turns out Matt really likes chicken kiev, so it was a great suggestion on his part (why he's never mentioned this for the past two years, I have no idea). We also tried scalloped potatoes for the first time. They were pretty good, especially for being from a Betty Crocker complete side box. I think we will be having this again, but from scratch as scratch always tastes better n_n We also tried the BC potatoes au gratin, which were not quite as good, although we did cut the liquid content the second time around, so that may have played a part. If we try these ones again, it will be from scratch as well. All in all though, it was a quite successful meal.

Turns out my other neighbor also had her first baby. Her parents live next door to us, and I was friends with her older sister Elena back in the day. While we've lost touch, we still talk to each other when the opportunity arises. Megan had her little boy a few months ago, but being the doofuses we are, my mom and I didn't think of getting her a gift. So now that I am making John Davis (how cute!) a toy. My mom asked for yet another elefante, big surprise there. The advantage to doing this though is that I know I can do it in 2 or 3 days, so I won't have to worry about time. Also she wants a blue one, which I've been wanting to do forever. It will probably be different from the blue one I had planned, and I may incorporate some green, but it's still exciting to finally make a blue one.

Tanya's gift set is coming along. I only have about 4 inches so far, but it is 30-36 inches across, so I consider that a good start. I've also only been working on it in short, random bursts. Tunisian also takes about twice as long as regular crochet or knitting (although I think I might be faster at knitting). Finals are done Tuesday though, so I should have plenty of time to get it done in the next two weeks. All I have to worry about is cleaning and packing, which doesn't all have to be done before I head home, as my lease goes until August 8th and M and I plan on stopping back a few times before then. The only problem I face with this blanket is the border. My mom doesn't like the solid color crochet border. She doesn't seem to understand I'd border it whether it was knit or crochet, because I'm not so good with pretty edges, especially with such fine yarn as baby yarn. M also agrees with her thinking though, so now I'm trying to figure out what to do about it. granted, the border is last so I guess I have time to figure it out. I think I am sticking with the elefante for Tanya's baby too (my mom hasn't told me her name yet...;_;). I think it will be darling in pink and yellow stripes, with white accents. I just don't know how big I want to make the stripes

Speaking of making things for other people...my cousin Tommy is getting married next summer. I guess my mom had offered Heidi (his fiance) to make hors d'ourves for the reception, as they were planning on doing it at my aunt's house (they are getting married on a cruise so we can't go ;_; so they are having a big reception party to make up for it). My mom asked me to help, since we love doing this. All our parties are full of appetizers, this will just be on a larger scale. It should be fun. Plus, we have a whole year to plan it. I also think I'm making Heidi's wedding jewelry, as well as my aunts and cousin Andrea's. It should be fun, and give me some cred for my shop, since I want to do special occassions like that.

Now if only I could focus on my projects, instead of playing video games. Matt and I finally sent in his Xbox to get it repaired. He got it back Friday and has pretty much been playing it non-stop. As soon as it came in, we had to go to teh store and buy a used copy of Bio Shock which he found for $20, an amazing deal. I also picked up a used copy of Kameo, for ten bucks. Needless to say he has already started both games, as well as Ninja Gaiden 2 (which eh got right before the Xbox broke), and Eternal Sonata (which I got for Christmas, and have not yet been able to play). Can you say making up for lost time? Luckily I just got myself a copy of Zelda's Minish Cap, which has been emensely entertaining. If only I coudl get a chance to play with the Xbox too...the extent of my play time on it has consisted of creating a profile, getting a few minutes on Kameo, and figuring out how to link my laptop to the Xbox for watching video clips on the TV (which rocks by the way!!!).

That's all...makes my weekend sound way more exciting than I thought it was. If we had made it to the park to go hiking, it would have been even more! Well, that's all for now. Bye-bye!

New Baby! and Knitting!

Thu, 07 May 2009 17:47:48 GMT

My neighbor just had her first baby...a little girl. My mom called me up and asked if I could make a blanket and toy set for her. She wanted them knit, but when looking through Ravelry, I found a beautiful Tunisian blanket that I just had to reproduce. At first I was afraid of learning a new, and what I thought would be complicated, crochet technique, but it is so easy! The stitches are very simple, and the effect is a cross between traditional crochet and knit. I just love it!

1) My trail swatch with my first attempt at the shell border, viewed from the front of the blanket.
2) The back of my trial swach, before border.

The only problem I am facing is my lack of an afghan hook. Oh, I can fit all 156 stitches on my normal crochet hook, but it is a huge pain, and I loose shaft space as I need a rubberband wrapped around it a bunch of times to provide a stopper so the loops don't fall off. Unfortunately Walmart does not carry afghan hooks, and JoAnn's is 1 hr away (I go to school in the middle of nowhere). I could order one, but 1) I lost my keys along withthe mailbox key, much to M's annoyance since we now have to share keys and haven't gotten our mail in a week, and 2) my mom wanted this done fairly quickly, so I really don't want to be waiting a week for an afghan hook or paying up the wazoo to ship it in 2 days. I think I could probably get it done in a week, but this week needs to be spent studying for finals next week. Maybe I'll have it done by the end of finals, as it is still going fairly quickly, even with the short normal hook.

Now I just need to figure out what animal to make as a toy. My mom asked for an elephant, but I told her she could choose something else. I've done so many elephants lately! I thought maybe a bear, dog, or rabbit...but she goes and suggests a monkey 0_o So now I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I keep going back to the elephant...I think it would be so cute in pink and yellow stripes (like my original elephant in green and yellow), with white ears, tail , feet, and trunk. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I currently have 1 elephant on my needles (although I only have 1/2 the head left, so maybe I should just finish it). I want to get the blanket finished first though, priorities and all that n_n

Contemplating the triangle

Mon, 04 May 2009 02:13:19 GMT

I'm not incredibly pleased with my crochet dice bag, although the picture I have of it makes it look substantially better (or maybe I'm just way too picky?). So, today I've spent contemplating the pieces needed to recreate it, with a more equilateral look and smooth, crisp seams. Below are the three methods I've looked at so far:

I think, in the end, I will end up using my third attempt to remake the bag. There is a bit of puckering here, that I need to figure out how to deal with. I don't know if I should change the increases though, or add lines of plain sc at a 1:1 ratio. I'm thinking that by working in the round, however, I can make a triangular base, then begin decreasing to form a seamless pyramid. Still wanting to have the drawstring at he top, I will probably stop a few rows short of the tip of the pyramid, and pick up each side's tip individually. I just don't know how to keep the tip edges looking nice if I do it this way. However, I think the body will hold it's shape very well, look more uniform, and I don't have to worry about seaming. I will probably play around with this over the next few days, so you should see a revised bag here soon n_n

Triangle 1
(the exact method used in V1 of my D4 bag)

Materials:
G crochet hook
worsted weight yarn
(Red Heart Bay Print)

Pattern:
chain 21
R1: sc 20 across, ch1
R2: sc2tog, sc 16, sc2tog, ch1
R3: sc 18 across, ch1
R4: sc2tog, sc 14, sc2tog, ch1
R5: sc 16 across, ch1
R6: sc2tog, sc 12, sc2tog, ch1
R7: sc 14 across, ch1
R8: sc2tog, sc 10, sc2tog, ch1
R9: sc 12 across, ch1
R10: sc2tog, sc 8, sc2tog, ch1
R11: sc 10 across, ch1
R12: sc2tog, sc 6, sc2tog, ch1
R13: sc 8 across, ch1
R14: sc2tog, sc 4, sc2tog, ch1
R15: sc 6 across, ch1
R16: sc2tog, sc 2, sc2tog, ch1
R17: sc 4 across, ch1
R18: sc2tog, sc2tog, ch1
R19: sc 2 across, ch1
R20: sc2tog, ch1
tie off

Triangle 2
(slightly different than D4 version, with edge)

Materials:
H crochet hook
worsted weight yarn
(Caron Simply Soft Black)

Pattern:
chain 17
R1: sc 16 across, ch1
R2: sc2tog, sc 14, ch1
R3: sc2tog, sc 13, ch1
R4: sc2tog, sc 12, ch1
R5: sc2tog, sc 11, ch1
R6: sc2tog, sc 10, ch1
R7: sc2tog, sc 9, ch1
R8: sc2tog, sc 8, ch1
R9: sc2tog, sc 7, ch1
R10: sc2tog, sc 6, ch1
R11: sc2tog, sc 5, ch1
R12: sc2tog, sc 4, ch1
R13: sc2tog, sc 3, ch1
R14: sc2tog, sc 2, ch1
R15: sc2tog, sc 1, ch1
R16: sc2tog, ch1

EDGE:
sc into tip
sc 15 to next tip
sc 3 into tip
sc 15 to next tip
sc 3 into tip
sc 15 to beginning
sc 2 into tip
tie off

Triangle 3
(done in the round)

Materials:
H crochet hook
worsted weight yarn
(Caron Simply Soft Autumn Red)

Pattern:
using magic circle, sc 6, slip 1

RD 1: sc1 into slipped st, sc1, sc3 into 1 st,
sc1, sc3 into 1 st, sc1, sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 2: sc1 into slipped st, sc3, sc3 into 1 st,
sc3, sc3 into 1 st, sc3, sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 3: sc1 into slipped st, sc5, sc3 into 1 st,
sc5, sc3 into 1 st, sc5, sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 4: sc1 into slipped st, sc7, sc3 into 1 st,
sc7, sc3 into 1 st, sc7, sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 5: sc1 into slipped st, sc9, sc3 into 1 st,
sc9, sc3 into 1 st, sc9, sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 6: sc1 into slipped st, sc11,
sc3 into 1 st, sc11, sc3 into 1 st, sc11,
sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 7: sc1 into slipped st, sc13,
sc3 into 1 st, sc13, sc3 into 1 st, sc13,
sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

RD 8: sc1 into slipped st, sc15,
sc3 into 1 st, sc15, sc3 into 1 st, sc15,
sc2 into 1 st, slip 1

First Official Sale!!!

Sun, 03 May 2009 03:07:17 GMT

Woo hoo! I just made my first "official" sale on etsy. I am super stoked. It was one of my favorite sets though...I wasn't selling much and was sort of hoping that set would stay unsold so I could keep it for myself heehee. I'm excited though, because so far my sales have been to 1 person, who was sort of connected to me and found out about me via email. So this is super exciting! I don't even know how she found me, but it's good to make a sale.

I feel like a little kid, getting all giddy about something so small. I know its trivial, and really I was just using etsy as a way to sort of justify my hobby. It's still exciting; I am officially a seller lol.

That's really about it, I'm just super excited and acting totally immature about it. By the way, if you like swarovksi jewelry, you should check out my store n_n

Some patterns...ish

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:08:46 GMT

I've been playing with crochet ever since I completed my cupcake. These patterns are more for my reference than anything else, but you are welcome to them anyway n_n Since the cupcake I have made a ball for the puppies, and just recently made a D4 dice bag.

While I was home over the weekend, pleased by my cupcake, I began to play with crocheting a bit more. My dogs kept trying to eat all my knitted toys and the newest cupcake, so I figured making a ball would be great practice for amigurumi, and crochet in general. I think I may have made it a bit too big, but that doesn't seem to have stopped them.

Crochet Ball

Materials:
G crochet hook
Small amount worsted weight yarn
(I used Red Heart Bikini)
Small amount stuffing

Pattern:
using magic circle, 7sc
2sc into each st around (14 st)
[2sc into next st, sc into following] around (21st)
[2sc into next st, sc into following 2] around (28st)
sc into each st around
[2sc into next st, sc into following 3] around (35 st)
[2sc into next st, sc into following 4] around (42 st)
sc into each st around
[2 sc into next st, sc into following 5] around (49 st)
sc into each st around, for 7 rows
[sc2tog, sc into following 5] around (42 st)
sc into each st around
[sc2tog, sc into following 4] around (35 st)
[sc2tog, sc into following 3] around (28 st)
sc into each st around
begin stuffing ball, add filling as needed
[sc2tog, sc into following 2] around (21 st)
[sc2tog, sc into following] around (14 st)
sc2tog around (7st)
add filling if needed, then tie off

Notes:
I'm not too pleased with the top, as the decreases made some small holes in it. It doesn't look professional to me, but the puppies can't pull the stuffing out through holes that small so it's ok. After browsing patterns, I found a ball pattern, and the creator had come across the same problem (hence her new 2-piece pattern), so now I don't feel so bad about it. I still don't like the effect, but I'm glad to know there isn't much I could have done about it.

A while ago I was inspired by this pattern. I saw a crochet bag in the list of projects on Ravelry, and thought I could do that too. I prefer the crochet because it makes a denser fabric, which I felt would hold the shape better. So yesterday, feeling brave after my success with spiral/circular crochet, I looked up how to make triangles, set to work and came up with this:

Crochet D4 Bag

Materials:
G crochet hook
1/3-1/2 skein worsted weight yarn
(I used Red Heart Bay Print)
small amount white yarn
ribbon or string
lining, if desired

Pattern:
ch 21 st
sc into each st (20 st); ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 16, sc2tog (18st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 14, sc2tog (16st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 12, sc2tog (14st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 10, sc2tog (12st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 8, sc2tog (10st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 6, sc2tog (8st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 4, sc2tog (6st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog, sc into next 2, sc2tog (4st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog twice (2st); ch1
sc into each st; ch1
sc2tog (1st)
tie off

make 3 more
seam together as follows:
attatch 2 triangles to each side of the fourth
seam about 2/3-3/4 up the sides of the remaining 3
turn inside out
edge unseamed tips of triangles using sc border
embroider numbers into die
install drawstring as follows:
go behind the number, and bring ribbon on outside at edges
line if desired

Notes:
I may have to redo this, as I'm not sure how much I like it. Making the D4 a drawstring bag (which, as we all know, all dice bags are) has proven difficult, although I think the general idea is working. I just didn't edge the triangles before sewing it together, which led me to edge the opening after and causes the top to look a bit funny. I just wanted a clean edge at the top, so I may edge then seam on the next go. I'm also considering lining the bag with something stiff. maybe even thin plastic covered with material, to help it keep its shape better. It is a D4 after all, so I want it to look like one :)

That's about all for now. Crochet has been inspiring me in little bursts. Unfortunately I still have knitting projects to complete. I am taking forever to make up a Totoro pattern, and I am in the middle of an elephant for my one sister. I have yet to start the elephant for my other sister, and apparently I still have many peeps to make. I should probably make 1 more at least to complete my mom's set heehee

Since livejournal and I are in a war when it comes to tables, I'm putting both pictures down here, because I don't like how it looks when there's just the one picture floating around on its own ^_^

Amigurumi and Crochet!!!!

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:02:54 GMT

My grandma taught me how to crochet years and years ago when I was little, but I have forgotten. I tried to get into it again, and still kind of know the basics, but nothing ever turns out. So I am going to ask her to reteach me...hopefully she still can crochet. I think she still does since I remember he recently making an afghan for her neighbor, so we shall see. In the meantime I found this awesome amigurumi tutorial, which was so easy to follow! It really got me back into the swing of basic crochet (sc, increse, decrease), and I got immediate satisfaction. This little cupcake took no time to complete and I am much more confident in my crochet abilities.

I couldn't find an F hook so I went up to G, as that was the next smallest size I had, figuring "well a bigger hook means it is easier for me to see my stitches and not mess up"... Little did I know it would make a cupcake of mega muffin proportions!

I don't quite trust myself to make something big, especially clothes, quite yet. But I think after a lesson with Grandma and some practice I will be okay. In the meantime I can enjoy the cuteness of amigurumi for a while!

Crafts Galore!

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 18:24:36 GMT

So many crafts to do...so little time? My mom absolutely loved the peeps I made for her on Easter (although I guess she needs a set of 3 so I owe her one yet...) In fact she wants 3 more sets to give to some of her friends. luckily I have a whole year to get those nine done...her third one should probably get done soon, ideally before I go home this weekend. They only take an hour or two so really it should be easy. However, I have an elefante that I am knitting for my sister which I would like done before I go home also as it would be cute to put with her birthday present (which is now 1 week late, but why mail it if I was going home the weekends before and after her birthday?) That took me a whole weekend last time so we shall see. My other sister is also expecting one which I probably should get don by her birthday...May 5!

Speaking of birthdays...I know too many people with April birthdays...and March and May...its like from March5-May15 there are a whole ton and I'm going to go broke! I still need to buy my other sister a gift and I need to figure out what to do for my grandma...then there's Mother's Day... Spring is just so darn busy.

I am also horribly behind on a Totoro and piggy kitchen set that I want to get knit up...they keep getting put on the back burner for other stuff. There's also a sweater that I want to knit, but now it's too warm so I really have all the time I want until fall... I am so getting distracted because I want to learn drop spinning. I have some fiber and a top whorl spindle...just not having much luck. And the fibers are so beautiful I can't wait to knit them up! Too many crafts!

I am making more jewelry but not selling much :( Dunno if people just don't know it's there or what. Guess only time will tell. Have some custom orders to get out though...Prom and a Wedding so maybe that will help. Maybe I need to make more different styles...we will see. Hopefully it picks up because it does cost money to post listings so I don't want to lose money on this endeavor. Oh well, at least making the jewelry is fun :)

Also...Pandora Radio is awesome. I love picking one band or song that I love and having an awesome line-up of songs. If only this existed in my car heehee.

At the risk of committing social suicide...

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 03:04:50 GMT

M recently ran across the website menarebetterthanwomen.com, which personally I find hilarious but many women will not. I watched the Dr. Phil clips and read through some of the comments from female readers, and I could not help but laugh. The women who actually take offense to this site and feel the need to comment are just idiotic. You can disagree, there is nothing wrong with that, and I certainly do not promote the poor treatment of women, but in all honesty it's not like what you say on that site is going to make one bit of difference. Any man who frequents that site is either a fellow believer of what it says or, like M, finds it hilarious, and in either case they aren't going to care what you have to say.

A lot of what that site (and similar believers) says has some truth to it. For example, women DO expect the man to pick up the check, to support them in a relationship (and sometimes after, particularly in the case of divorce, which I personally disagree with), to do things for them, blah blah blah. And it is true women being with saying we are all equal, but feminists often try to turn the tables. What is the sense in that? That is just retarded. Women want to fight for equality just to throw it all away once they are in power? If we think inequality is so bad, our goal should not be to flip-flop it. And honestly women, we use our bodies, our "feminine wiles and charms" to get a lot, whether we are conscious of it. We make sure we look good, we're fit, our hair is sprayed to perfection for all sorts of occassions: job interviews, first dates, going into any office job, etc. Not to mention, those of us that do have good bodies make sure to show a little boob or cleavage whenever we ca get away with it. We flirt to get what we want (again you may not think you do, but honestly whenever you humor a man you can't stand just to keep a good report...you're doing it).

We constantly fight, claiming we are better than men. I know because I do it, and to be honest I am well aware of the fact that without the men in my life I would be a lot more dependent (because they actually taught me stuff), and when they aren't there I still occassionally find myself needing someone to help me (for example, I had a POS car that without my dad around I do not know how to deal with when it breaks, so if he was unavailable I was screwed!). And to be honest I LIKE having a guy to rely on at times. Granted I like being self-sufficient, but I like knowing I have a man there to support me. Perhaps I'm old-fashioned, although I think all women still are, but I enjoy knowing I have as trong man to protect em and take care of me. Growing up, I was friends with all guys, and they looked after me like a little sister and I wouldn't have traded that for anything! Not to mention, women, honestly, you can't go around demanding equality when at the same time promoting a female era and still expecting special treatment...women were once considered "frail flowers" even in the law, and to an extent we till desire that treatment.

But how can we expect to be on the same playing field as men when we demand lesser requirements? We want equal pay but less responsibility on the job, We don't want to be overlooked or discriminated against because we are "weaker" than men but we want a man to support us, even after divorce. We can't have these double standards and expect to get anywhere, so people such as those at this site have a right to say what they feel. While I think al lot of it is just outrageous, I can't say there isn't a reason for it. All in all I say take it with a grain of salt. I personally hate feminists, and no I'm not super old-fashioned, I just think they are a huge joke. It's people like them that start all this shit. Not to mention most of what this site and others liek it have to say is flat out hilarious as long as you have a sense of humor, and what good joke doesn't have a tiny grain of truth at its base? Just think about it.

April Fool's!!!

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:29:10 GMT

So the boy has been getting into this April Fool's kick waaaaaaaaaaay too much. For the past 3 days everything has been April Fool's this and April Fool's that. His justification? He needs to practice so that he is ready for the real April Fool's. I got a text at 12:30am saying get ready April Fool's! Who does that? The other day he asked me where he could get packing peanuts too...I'm starting to fear for my life. It probably doesn't help that throughout hs our friends would just use April Fool's as a blanket excuse to cover any and all pranks as well as any insults (in lieu of "no offense"). Really, I shouldn't have laughed along. Some of them still do this and encourage him too...ugh! Well here's wishing you all a fun April Fool's day ^_^
ETA: Apparently this is going to be amonth long ordeal because "It's called April Fools not April First Fools." Oh dear oh dear, what have I gotten myself into?

In the meantime, there's nothing too new from yesterday. I'm sitting here procrastinating on papers, not looking forward to a packed, short weekend. Hopefully we take care of everything so we don't need to run any more errands or drop off applications next weekend. Although I think next weekend is Easter so I may be home again either way... Why is spring so busy?

Oh boredom...

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 17:04:23 GMT

It has been a while since my last post. Family things are going...well, better. Things are still rough, but what do you expect after such a reeling experience. It's only been 7 months. I think once everyone starts unwinding things will be much easier, but right now things are so tense for a variety of reasons: money, high school, college, cars, pets, chores, etc etc. I think you get the picture. And there's five of us, two of whom are... *cue dum dum dum music* TEENAGERS! (oh the horror!) Anyway, things are smoothing out. Now to just get them to find a new middle man (i.e. not me/hopefully a counselor of some sort), and things will be grand.

So the boyfriend and I are becoming obsessed with non-American TV, such as BBC and anything Japanese (mostly anime and gameshows...those people know how to entertain!). He has started picking up some British slang too...I make fun of him for constantly saying "brilliant" and the other day he said sale-sa instead of sall-sa heehee. I'm mean I know...this is coming from the girl who upon seeing the first Harry Potter movie in theaters unconsciously picked up a British accent for the rest of the day...but he didn't know me back then... VICTOLY! His recent obsession has been Chef Gordon Ramsay's "The F Word," which is basically Ramsay doing whatever he wants I think. It is quite entertaining though and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes food shows and randomness. Hulu has also become a good friend of ours. Recently we've been watching Doogie Howser (man I had such a crush on him when I was little...the boy will not let me forget it either!). Hulu has also slowly begun to add BBC and Japanese shows to its mix, so I'm hoping to find something else good to watch (I am way too impatient for downloads). I've also started Boston Legal (which is hilarious!) and catching up on Arrested Development (because I never watch in order).

My etsy shop is proving fun, but not as fruitful as I would have liked. I don't list too often so that probably has something to do with it, and I don't know how much traffic I get here or on my Ravelry profile, so who knows how many people even know about it. If you want cute, fairly priced, and unique swarovski jewelry please check it out! My aunt has been my only buyer... :-/ It's cool but I wish other people would chomp at the bit too. Although I am making a custom screened shirt for this nice lady and her new shop. I'm excited about that. I just wish I had thought to bring my materials back to school with me. Good thing I'm going home this weekend! If she really likes it I might get another order from her sister too, so that'll be cool. Maybe I'll start advertising custom screened tees...hmmm now there's a thought. Kind of goes against the whole jewelry store idea, but we'll see. That reminds me...I think I'm out of frames...oh bother.

Man this post is going all over the place...oh well. I am so bored and haven't updated in a while. The Hey Teach that I was knitting for my mom is done. She absolutely loved it! I was so happy, because once I started putting it together I got worried about the shaping. She liked the fit just fine though, and she loved the color. It was very exciting.

I haven't really knit anything since then...so it's been like 3 weeks :( I began the elefantes for my sisters, but only have like a few legs and ears done so far haha. I even went out to buy the stuffing too. I also have a Totoro that I'm designing, which is also super late (sorry Tut!), but I keep forgetting what I was doing. It's like I went from knitting to making bracelets to nothing. I do some origami to go with my sold bracelets, so at least I'm still somewhat crafty...

I've fallen into a bit of a slump it seems. I play video games or read manga, but that's all that can keep my attention. I get too bored for books now! It's quite sad, since I love to read. I've ordered the next 6 Keroro Gunsou mangas though, so I've started rereading the first 6...yay! But still, I'm having trouble staying attentive to anything. Even video games not so much...I'm in need of a new one I think, which may be part of the problem. I love Animal Crossing, but it's getting old without people to play with. I never seem to be on the same time as my Ravelry friends, and my real friends never play (losers!). I just got my family's Wii back home online though, so now I'm trying to talk them into the game heehee. Yesterday my brother and I settled for Smash and Mario Kart, which are both very fun online. His skill super exceeds mine at Smash...Mari Kart we are pretty close (plus I get way less angry when I lose at that game). Maybe I can talk my mom into getting the family AC...or my sis might buy it. I just checked out the Gardening Mama demo too...I had my reservations but it seems just as good as the Cooking Mama games. PLUS the tasks seem to be longer as you go through the whole growing process (at least in the demo I did). So I'm thinking about that...my sister definitely wants it (as she said "I peed my pants when I saw it"), s maybe I'll just borrow it from her... I also want to try out Magician's Quest. A buddy of mine has that whole set-up where you can dl DS games and is trying out the European version. I am impatiently awaiting her verdict. She says it's cute, but hasn't really gotten in to the meat of it yet...Hurry up Tut!!!

I really got nothing else. Getting sick of school and finding a hard time dedicating myself to it....Not good. It will be better once I go online though; I do so much better that way. I've been sick for like 2 weeks...well 1 week over break, last week spent recovering, this week I'm down to an awesome cough and muscle aches. The doctor told my mom it takes about a month to get over (she and my brother are both down with it too!). It's getting a bit ridiculous. I've spent forever typing this, and it's probably really long and boring. I also should be getting back to work. Until next time...

Tra La La...and some knitting

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 21:38:19 GMT

I am about 2/3 of the way through my secret project!!! (Those of you on Ravelry can see it and its details...its the only WIP at 60% n_n) I'm excited because the due date is quickly approaching. I have: back, left, 1/2 right. I intended to have it in the mail to arrive later this week (gotta be secretive I know noy people!), but think I will settle for giving it when I go home for break at the end of next week. I also got a little goody to go with it. Hooray for suprises and gifts! I feel like such a dork, but I'm getting excited. Very soon you all will see the adorableness and awesomeness.

On the note of knitting, I came across this article today: Boys Knit! It's 4 years old, but I still liked it. I work for my university's bus system and my boss just recently gave me a huge stack of old papers, letters, brochures, etc about us for me to laminate and hang on the wall. In one of the papers was this article. Granted it wasn't written by my school paper, but it was published in it, so that's the link you get (I didn't feel like finding the original). I thought my fellow knitters would like to see this. Boys Do Knit! and They Aren't Girly!

I think my favorite part about that article was seeing the huge range of ages that boys start to knit, as well as the various areas, clubs, and classes available in the Chicago area. I also like seeing how many young boys LOVED to knit and give gifts to friends and family. A few years back I used to babysit for this family (their boys are too old to need watching anymore u_u), and the younger boy saw me knitting a scarf one night and got hooked. We always did crafts and art projects, and he had been hounding to to see what I was knitting from the moment I walked in the door with a ball of yarn. Low and behold, the next time I babysat he had gotten a knitting set complete with book, needles, and yarn and was already attempting a washcloth. To be quite honest he was doing very well for being 8 (I think he's 12 now and his brother is 14...or so; it has been a while since I've talked to them), but he wanted to me show him how to fix his mistakes and make it look better. It was a project for us for many future babysitting. His older brother was not interested in learning but loved to watch us! lol

Ah...now I feel nostalgic. I miss crafting with youngsters. I still do it all the time: jewelry, knitting, papercrafts, drawing, screen printing, blah blah blah. It's always fun with littl'uns though because they get so excited with each new project. Those two LOVED Christmas because it meant time to make ornaments, snowglobes, and whatever else they or I could think of! Time to find new kids to babysit and turn into crafting monsters??? Perhaps...

Where has all the romance gone?

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 04:30:19 GMT

There seems to be no romance left in the world. Everywhere you look you see it, but that's all on TV, in the movies, in books, etc. Is there any real romance left in the world? I ask this seriously, because I do not see it anymore. I don't feel romance is a part of our day to day lives. Maybe it neer was, but it seems like it must have been at some time.

My dad, for example, may not have been a romantic. I never heard stories about romantic dates he took my mom on, or even witnessed much of it. However, he did make an effort to incorporate some sort of romance in his and my mom's life. He'd buy flowers at random times for no reason. His gifts may not have been extravagant, but he had a certain way in which he presentec them and got very excited like a little kid. While it may not have been the hearts and roses romance you think of like in the movies, there was still somethign there.

I don't see this though. Even with my friends I do not notice the romance. There are very few who are comfortable enough to show how they feel around others. I honestly can name two... I don't know if it has just become taboo to show emotion, if "romance" is seen as to expensive, or what the deal is. A daisy and a picnic can be romantic if you put the effort into it. But people see romance as expensie shows, restaraunts, theaters, etc. While I would not mind some of that, it does not need to be part of a relationship. There are many ways to be sweet and show how you feel (even if you cannot say it), but nobody does it anymore.

I also don't know if its just my age or what, but it seems alcohol has become to common place. There's nothing wrong with drinking, or evendrinking parties, but I don't see why alcohol has to be a daily part of our lives. It just seems unnecessary to me. Because of that I find id so much harder to do things with groups...there is no more wholesome fun. It seems there HAS to be drinking and then things get uncomfortable too fast. It is one thing to drink casually, it is another to want to get drunk, to use the alcohol as an excuse to act a certain way or talk about certain topics. Sometimes I feel I was closer to my friends before they began drinking than I am now.

Maybe I'm hopeless...I just want that good old-fashioned way of life--wholesome fun and romantic evenings with the one I love. Instead things are way too complicated, and that is before you throw in financial situations, work, school, family, friends, etc. Maybe one day I'll find this, but I have a feeling that way of life does not exist anymore. The future is so obscure, but maybe I'm too young to be worrying...

Puppy Sweater Pattern

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:05:07 GMT

I've been on the hunt for a puppy sweater for my one year old 2.5 pound chihuahua. I have found a few cute ones, even one designed for a 2.5 lb chi, but they all pull overthe pups head. Gracie does not enjoy things going over her head so I needed to find or make a sweater with a velcro closure, prefereably on the belly. Giving up, I created my own.

Materials:
US 7 needles
Worsted weight yarn, approx 30 yds
(I used I Love This Yarn! Peacock Ombre)

Pattern:
CO 32 st

Rows 1-9: 2X1 ribbing

RS: (k2, p1)x10, k2

WS: (p2, k1)x10, p2

Rows 10-14: stockinette

Row 15: K3, BO 8, K10, BO 8, K3

Row 16: P3, CO 8, P10, CO 8, P3

Rows 17, 18: stockinette

Row 19: increase 6 st (38 st)

K6, m1, K4, m1, K4, m1, K4, m1, K4, m1, K4, m1, K6

Rows 20-36: stockinette

Row 37: BO 8 knit to end

Row 38: BO 8 purl to end

Rows 39-42: stockinette

Row 43: K2, K2tog, K14, K2tog, K2

Row 44: purl across

Row 45: K2, K2tog, K12, K2tog, K2

Row 46: purl across

Row 47: K2, K2tog, K10, K2tog, K2

Row 48: purl across

Rows 49-54: stockinette

Row 55: K2, K2tog, K8, K2tog, K2

Row 56: purl across

Row 57: K2, K2tog, K6, K2tog, K2

Row 58: purl across

BO (12 st)

Finishing:
Weave in any loose ends. Block.
Sew in velcro at edges (I used three small pieces: neck, by the foot holes, at the end of the belly). Sew along right side on one edge and wrong side on the other, making sure they match up.

Notes:
I am planning on making sleeves for this eventually. Currently Gracie still has a cast on, making it difficult to put sleeves on her. Hopefully it will come off soon and you will have sleeves for your pup as well n_n

Gracie trying on her sweater, before
finishing. (It has slipped a bit)

Blocking

Piggy Kitchen

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 17:52:40 GMT

My mom got my cousin Andrea a goofy pig ornament for Christmas because Anj apparently loves pigs. Her family is coming down later to celebrate Christmas with us, so I figured I would have time to knit her something. After my two stuffed elephants I was planning on a stuffed pig, but didn't really find any that stuck out on Ravelry. I did find a cute Pig Bank washcloth pattern that I caved in and bought. SO now my plan is to make her a set of washcloths: pig bank (sans-money hole), pig face, and pig butt.

I'm also thinking a piggy potholder to match (I saw one on Ravelry and thought I couold do that too!). Although I am flip-flopping between a potholder or a toilet paper cover. Figuring it could either be a kitchen set or a bathroom set. I'm a little too lazy to design my own toilet paper cover and haven't really run across many free patterns (I'm being cheap ^o^) that I can play with. So it will likely be a kitchen set, unless I'm too lazy/cheap to buy batting in which case it may just be the washcloths. Good thing I'm making 3!