Great Package from my SP!

I got a package yesterday from my secret pal. It had lots of great stuff. Here's a picture:


Notice I didn't waste anytime using that sock yarn! It would be almost finished but I tried it on and the heel is really pointy, so I'm going to pull it out back to that point and rework it.

Thanks SP!!!!!!

Knitting? Maybe

I think I might start knitting. I've done it before and never liked it because it worked up so much slower then crochet, I liked everything about it except that it was slowwwwwwwwwwwww. But now I kinda figure:
1) I already have/buy/spin yarn

2) I am always working on more then one project, no reason why I can't have a slow working knitting project and some fast going crochet projects all at once.

3) If I knit and crochet I can make everything!! (evil laugh) There won't be a pattern out there that I couldn't make.

4) I'm soooooooooo sick of website, catalogs, yarn companies, and more that only seem to have knitting patterns. Don't they know that
a) crochet is the big thing now, even famous designers are doing it
b) for every 1 knitter there are 3 crocheters
c) crocheters like fancy yarns to?
so while me knitting won't change that at least I'd be able to do all the neat patterns they create.

5) Why not? I already work with yarn?

So now I just need to buy some needles. Next time we go to target I'll probably grab some of the needles in their dollar section. They probably aren't the best needles, but they are aluminum so they can't be that bad. Plus for $1 if i decide not to knit again it's no big deal. I think after all this is said and done, I'll probably crochet more then knitting, but there is no harm in doing both.

My Hogwarts House

Okay, it might sound geeky, but I am really into Harry Potter right now. I just can't get enough Hogwarts! So I started to debate which house I would be in, and was kinda town between them., since i have characteristics of all the houses, so I found the deciding factor- an online quiz, and I am offically a:


You are a Hufflepuff!

If you take this image, please link back to my quiz
on the preceding page. Thank you!


What House are you at Hogwarts? Harry Potter!
brought to you by Quizilla




Edited to add:
Okay this is getting confusing. I saw another quiz that looked a little more complex and took it, and i didn't get hufflepuff I got:


Being a brave and chivilrous person, the house for
you is GRYFFINDOR! Harry Potter, Albus
Dumbledore, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley
are a few of the many Gryffindors.


Which Hogwarts house are you in? (Harry Potter)
brought to you by Quizilla

Well I took several tests, most of the short 10 or so question ones said Gryffindor, but the quiz that looked like it would be the best sorter, over 100 questions answered using a 1-9 scale said HufflePuff. While I do have some Gryffindor traits I must admit that I am most likely a HufflePuff. So I think I'll make if "offical" I'm a HufflePuff!

Current Projects

I found a project to work on. Well I made one up, but still...

So now I am working on:

The ugly test shrug pattern. I can only do a row before I get disgusted with it.

An ugly shawl. I just grabbed a funky yarn from what my mom gave me. It's a really funky vintage yarn with a combination of 70's yellow, often called Goldenrod, a little rust, some tan, and a few other colors. It's a very weird yarn. As the shawl works up I will like it, then a few rows later hate it, then like it again.

When I finish the shawl I plan on using the fuzzy fur my pal got me and trying to make a lacy shawl. I can't seem to find a good pattern for one so I am going to pretty much make it up based ona knit pattern I saw.

Here's a few tidbits of info for my pal, then I must jet to go upstairs and wait for the pizza I ordered.

1) I say Groovy. Yes I regularly say "groovy" in everyday conversation. I'm that weird.
2) Lately I find myself wanting to crochet a sweater, but I think i will chicken out. It's such a big project. Though lately I've been enoying the longer projects. Ohh I dunno.

Various Things

There isn't a whole lot new going on with me. I crocheted a sock. It's the ugliest thing I've ever seen. I used some vintage yarn my Mom gave me in a weird Plum shade. Nothing like crocheting a sock to realize exactly how gigantic your feet are. I don't even want to maek the matching sock because the first one is just so ugly, but unless I make another the first one is useless. The sock itself is okay I think it's the yarn I used and my gigantic feet that make it no look so good. I picked the plum color because it was the right weight and I had no idea of what else I would ever use that color for, so I decided it was worth a shot for my sock. If it turned out badly what would I be missing? One skien of yarn in an odd color. I'll have to post a picture of it sometime.

The only other thing is that one of my cousins may come to stay with us. But there is nothing certain about it. Nick and I doubt it will happen, but the offer has been put on the table. I don't even think the chances are as good as 50/50 that it will happen. But I guess we shall see.

And in crochet "news" I am in desperate need of a project. While I have stacks and stacks of patterns I've printed out I just can't seem to pick one to make. I'll find one I'm sure. Maybe I'll just pick up a hook and some yarn and make something up.


Oh and here's two things about me for my SP:
1) My favorite painter is Monet. I got to see one of his paintings at a museum once. Don't tell but I broke the rules and took a picture.

2) I love scarfs and sashs.

Some Pictures

I thought I'd add a few pictures from my weekend, and the picture of my goodies.


This is me with my DH and small cousin.








My Cousin. She came walking around the corner and I snapped her picture.













My young cousin that is all grown up now. He's the one that I had to stand on tip toes for.












Me and My family. The picture is from left to right: My dad, My brother, My mom, Me, My Husband, Sunshine our dog.










My Cousin and her boys all grown up.















All the goodies I got from my secret pal.

Things About Me

I realized that I haven't been saying things about me the last few days for my secret pal so I'm going to list 7 right now:

I Love fruit. My one cousin makes fun of me and says it's all I eat. I love it fresh, dried, in yougurt, stuff that is fruit flavored, coated with chocolate, and any other way I can fnd it. Except I don't eat oranges or pineapple I get migraines.

I'm naturally a blond but right now my hair is black. Before black it was a deep red, and after black it's going to be an orangey red.

I love to cook and bake.

I have my tounge pierced. It's a standard 14 gauge 5/8 inch barbell.

I'm very into the earth. I recycle everything possible, and only use 1 disposable item (paper towels) I refuse to use paper,plastic, or styrofoam plates/cups/bowls/utensils unless I HAVE to, and usually I make sure thet they get washed instead of thrown away.

I like magical stuff. Things like elves, fairies, Harry Potter, fantasy stories, etc.

I love ponchos, shawls, scarfs, and all styles of wraps.

and here's a bonus tidbit- My favorite number is 7, but if I have to pick one that's over 10 I'll say 13.

An amazing Weekend

I can't remember if I explain why my parents were here or not. So I'll sum it up real fast. My Aunt moved to Hawaii when I was just an infant and her family only makes it back every few years. Well her, two of her sons, and her husband came up for two weeks. So the entire family put together another reunion to have so they could see everyone. The last time they came up and we were able to come also my one cousin was 10. I was 13. When I was laying on the couch he layed beside me comfortably and we took a quick nap.

Things have changed!!!!! This time when I hugged him I had to stand on my tippy toes (and I'm 5'8") and he picked me up off the ground!! I can't believe how big he is now!

It's so crazy that you know you get older but you can't picture other people doing the same. I knew I'm not 13 anymore but totally felt like he would still be 10 lol.

He isn't the only one that has grown. My cousin came and brought her three sons. The old isn't far from 18!! I remember him being about 4 and eating a gigantic amount of pizza! Her boys were the absolute best boys I've ever seen. They were come to the table and ask us if anyone wanted anything. She asked them to bring her a soda, and I jokingly said "me to" and they did!! Her middle son fized everyone snowcones. Her one son even brough her a plate of cookies just because!! I've never see boys be so caring and willing to fetch stuff. And these weren't kids who were young and had to help mom, they were about 12 and 14 I think. I felt so bad, all day everyone was saying her middle son Josh was Justin the youngest, even when they were standing side by side!! No one could remember there was a middle kid named Josh! Poor guy.

So I was able to see people I haven't seen in years! One cousin I don't think I've ever met, but he swears I did. I think he is mistaking me though because the year and info he used doesn't match up for it to have been me. People say my family has a strong resembelance. I've looked at pictures and thought my one younger cousin was me and looked further to see me standing elsewhere in the picture! So I think he is confused.

It was great. We had crabs, which is special to us. When my grandfather was alive he would go and buy bushels of crabs, then the whole family would eat crabs together. And I don't have a little family. My mom has 9 living brother and sisters! Most of them have about 3-4 kids! So we all ate crabs and tons of other foods, and had a good time.

I also went to church with my Mennanite cousins. It was neat. I've been wanting to go for years just to see what it was like, and I liked it. I'd never convert to their religion, but it was okay for the hour.

Also I just got a package from my secret pal! I'll have to take picture later, my camera is full of picture from the reunion and I have to upload all of them first. Bu the package includes: Holllllllllyyy Moley!! I started to open the package after I typed "It includes, and I can't believe how much was inside! It has:

Easy Crochet magazine- I was just looking at this exact issue at the book store and was about to get it!!

Some post-its that are quote balloon shaped that say "FYI It's not my fault!" Love these. From now on if stuff breaks at teh house I'll put on of these on it to tell my husband to fix it!

4 skiens of Sugar N Cream Cotton yarn! My personal favorite of everyday yarns. I got 2 whites, a lime green, and a great sagey green color that I haven't seen at the local store!

A size H Skacel Crochet hook- which looks like it's going to be just lovely to use!

A pack of Benjamin Twiggs Cherry Bing Tea (10 tea bags) and a Dove candy bar in the same bag!

4 skiens of the Rusty Red Fuzzy Fur yarn from Target!

A skein of Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool in a nice natural color.

1 skein of Berroco Foilage in a great green color!

A Sterling Mini Ballpoint Pen- it's black and white and feel liks a perfect weight for good writing. Did I mention that I love office supplies on my blog?! I LOVE pens and such!

and

A wonderful little unique journal!

She put alot of the stuff in clear cellaphane bags and tied it with silver star sparkling wire garland stuff. Which is neat because I don't think i said anything but I love celestial stuff, and prefer silver to gold.

This one package is more then I expected to get total and she says she has more for me! I must have the best secret pal in the whole wide world. I am so in shock to have recieved all these great things!


I think this post is getting long enough so even though I could go on and one about the reunion and my great pal I'm going to finish it up.

Oh one more thing- I got book 1 and 2 of Harry Potter this weekend!

While I wait I'll...

I seem to be on a neverending hold. I was told at 5:36 that I had a wait time of 27 minutes and that if I am not answered byt eh time they close at 6 to call back!!! They don't even have the curtisy to take a message and call me back!! I have to wait half an hour, then possibly call back and probably wait another half hour!! So while I wait I decided to check my email and post here.

My parents are here. They (and my brother) arrived at about 8:15 or so this morning and driving all night. Turns out that they had to take an extra 5 hour trip to pick up my brother because he no more then left the house to meet them and his car started acting up, so he turned and went home. But they are here now. I spent the day showing my Mom all the stuff I made and trying to convince her to scrapbook, then also spun some of the best yarn while everyone napped. After my DH gets back from his bike ride we are going to Johny Rockets, a 50's style diner.

What else is new you ask? Absolutely nothing! I may be crocheting socks soon. My Secret Pal emailed me a link to a great sock pattern and said I may be getting the stuff to make it in my goody box. I might be making it sooner then that, but I guess I should wait and see what she sent my way instead.

Did I mention that my Mom brought me boxes and boxes of yarn? they have a big conversion van, and most of it was boxes of yarn. She also gave me a ballwinder that i was in desperate need of! It was so fast to ball the yarn I spun! Now I just have to sort through, see exactly what she brought me, figure out where i am going to store it, how I am going to organize it, and actually try to make stuff with it. Most of it seems to be acyrlic worsted weight, and most of what I have touched so far is a little scratchy, so I'll be using it for hats and purses and such. There is one whole box of off white "natural" colored skeins, I might try kool-aid dying one or two skiens to see exactly what happens. I dunno if you can even dye acrylic, but with a whole box why not give it a shot?

I am so excited about my wonderful secret pal. I am already just dieing to know who it is.

Oh before I forget here are two more things about me that my pal may want to know:

I Love theme restaurants!

My ultimate ever favorite singer is Fiona Apple, I have every CD of hers.

The best pal ever!

Every time I've ever done a secret pal or secret sister I also get shafted. I never have a pal who actually sends me anything. He/She always flakes otu and I get nadda. It's amazing I keep doing it. BUT this pal this pal is different. My secret pal just told me she is putting a package in the mail tomorrow!! Ohhhhhh I wonder what it is!?!?!? I wonder when it will arrive!?!?!?! I wonder where in the world it is coming from!?!?

Wow having a pal who actually does stuff is so exciting!!!!

Pals

I am SO excited!! I just got an email from my secret pal, which not only means someone will be spoiling me, but it means I should be getting my pal soon and be able to spoil someone. I'm going to try to post 1 or 2 little things about me every day to help my secret pal get to know me.

I realized I do have an amazon wishlist, so I updated it and everything, and then realized that I am kinda dumb about it and have no idea how to share the link! So I'll try to figure that out.

And here's two things about me:

I love both coffee and tea. I don't like sweet tea, or most iced teas, but I love most hot teas.

I love the rennasseince and medievil times. I love to read about them, and even am into costuming somewhat. Even went to Medievil Times (the theme restaurant) for my birthday!

Nerd/Geek/Dork Test

Okay I took it. I'm ashamed very ashamed. But hey what can I say Geeks are Sexy. When I go to Best Buy and see the geek squad I must admit I get excited. Atleast I didn't score high on dork points!

Joe Normal 39 % Nerd, 21% Geek, 26% Dork

For The Record: A Nerd is someone who is passionate about learning/being smart/academia. A Geek is someone who is passionate about some particular area or subject, often an obscure or difficult one. A Dork is someone who has difficulty with common social expectations/interactions. You scored less than half in all three, earning you the title of: Joe Normal. This is not to say that you don't have some Nerd, Geek or Dork inside of you--we all do, and you can see the percentages you have right above. This is just to say that none of those qualities stand out so much as to define you. Sure, you enjoy an episode of Star Trek now and again, and yeah, you kinda enjoyed a few classes back in the day. And, once in a while, you stumble while walking down the street even though there was nothing there to cause you to trip. But, for the most part, you look and act fairly typically, and aren't much of an outcast. I'd say there's a fair chance someone asked you to take this test. In any event, fairly normal. Congratulations! THE NERD? GEEK? OR DORK? TEST

My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender: You scored higher than 20% on nerdiness You scored higher than 20% on geekosity You scored higher than 33% on dork points

Link: The Nerd? Geek? or Dork? Test written by donathos on Ok Cupid

Various Things

Here's 10 Various things:
1) It's past time for us to get our dog spayed. Where I grew up it would cost about $50-100 or so, here about $200 at a minimum. Calling aroudn to get estimates I heard rates over $300 more often then not and even got a few $400-500!!
2) I'm still crocheting this one shrug for a pattern test program. I despise the idea of finishing it, but I must. This thing is WAY to big. It's not a shrug at all really. When I put on what I have so far it already hangs below my belly! And I still have about 3 inches left! It's like a granny shrug or something I guess. The worst part is that I have to finish it to give her pictures, but after i finish it I can't sell it, I would never in a million years probably wear it, and don't know anyonw who would like it as a gift, so I might just have to finish it then pull the entire thing back out!
3) My hair needs a re-dye. So I'll be hanging out today dyeing it.
4) My parents are visiting this weekend and we are going to my grandmothers house where I will meet atleast 1 cousin for the first time. I'll also see anotehr cousin that I've only met once when he was about 10, and he just graduated highschool!!
5) I still haven't gotten my secret pal assigned for various technical reasons apparently, but I am waiting paitently.
6) I am so psyched about being in SP6. I even already have something for my pal.
7) When my parents coem we are going to Johny Rockets, a fun 50's diner that has the BEST chicken club.
8) I may get a job as a nanny. I don't really know anything yet though.
9) Saturday the dog split my lip. I thought i needed stitched, but eventually the bleeding stopped. Now I just have this big spot where my lip is white and is healing.
10) I have no idea what else to say.

A crazy Wishlist

Sometimes when I am broke I'll go pretend shopping, filling my shopping cart up with everything I love then empty it instead of checking out. Today I decided to work on some of my wishlists instead. I think if given the opportunity I would buy almost everything at knitpicks.com think I'm exagerating? Look at this wishlist:
Alicia's Wish List
Qty Cost Subtotal Item ID Description
2 $3.69 $7.38 23550 Tropics
2 $3.69 $7.38 23552 Sunset
2 $3.69 $7.38 23549 Snapdragon
2 $3.69 $7.38 23704 Forest
2 $3.69 $7.38 23706 Gumballs
2 $3.69 $7.38 23709 Blues
2 $3.99 $7.98 23478 Spring Prairie
2 $3.99 $7.98 23641 Paper Dolls
2 $3.99 $7.98 23642 Easter
2 $3.99 $7.98 23643 Gladiolus
2 $3.99 $7.98 23645 Hawaii
2 $3.99 $7.98 23648 Fly Fishing
10 $2.99 $29.90 23417 Natural White Wool of the Andes
3 $1.99 $5.97 23602 Light Blue
3 $1.99 $5.97 23605 Orange
3 $1.99 $5.97 23606 Blue
3 $1.99 $5.97 23608 Yellow
3 $2.29 $6.87 23613 Cherry
3 $2.29 $6.87 23615 Cream
3 $2.29 $6.87 23616 Cloud
3 $2.29 $6.87 23617 Green Apple
3 $2.29 $6.87 23618 Grass
3 $2.29 $6.87 23619 Turquoise
3 $2.29 $6.87 23621 Sky
3 $2.29 $6.87 23622 River
3 $2.29 $6.87 23623 Seaside
3 $2.29 $6.87 23626 Harvest
3 $2.29 $6.87 23627 Candy
3 $3.79 $11.37 23563 Melon
3 $3.79 $11.37 23564 Pistachio
3 $3.79 $11.37 23565 Sunshine
3 $3.79 $11.37 23566 Turquoise
3 $3.79 $11.37 23568 Tangerine
3 $3.79 $11.37 23569 Ocean
3 $4.29 $12.87 23571 Jeans
3 $4.29 $12.87 23572 Wading Pool
3 $4.29 $12.87 23574 Rafting
3 $4.29 $12.87 23575 Hiking
2 $4.99 $9.98 23578 Pansy
2 $4.99 $9.98 23579 Lagoon
2 $4.99 $9.98 23580 Jeans
2 $4.99 $9.98 23583 Sunset
2 $4.99 $9.98 23586 Tropics
1 $4.99 $4.99 23640 Bronze
1 $4.99 $4.99 23630 Lime
1 $4.99 $4.99 23631 Ocean Blue
1 $4.99 $4.99 23632 Tangerine
1 $4.99 $4.99 23635 Ruby
1 $4.99 $4.99 23636 Khaki
1 $4.99 $4.99 23637 Twilight
1 $4.99 $4.99 23639 Emerald
1 $4.99 $4.99 23629 Lemon
1 $5.49 $5.49 23600 Broadway Lights
1 $5.49 $5.49 23596 Parrot
1 $5.49 $5.49 23597 Spumoni
1 $5.49 $5.49 23598 Beach Ball
1 $5.49 $5.49 23599 Daydream
2 $3.99 $7.98 23672 Ocean
2 $3.99 $7.98 23675 Fern
2 $3.99 $7.98 23676 Blueberry
2 $3.99 $7.98 23677 Apricot
2 $3.99 $7.98 23678 Twilight
2 $3.99 $7.98 23679 Strawberry
1 $4.99 $4.99 23542 Maple Leaf
1 $4.99 $4.99 23543 Deep Woods
1 $4.99 $4.99 23544 Morning Mist
2 $4.99 $9.98 23546 Turquoise Splendor
1 $4.99 $4.99 23539 Happy Dance
1 $6.49 $6.49 23680 Grass
1 $6.49 $6.49 23682 Pumpkin
1 $6.49 $6.49 23683 Cream
1 $6.49 $6.49 23684 Cranberry
1 $6.49 $6.49 23685 Woods
1 $6.49 $6.49 23686 Fog
1 $6.49 $6.49 23688 Midnight
1 $6.49 $6.49 23689 Rust
1 $6.49 $6.49 23690 Moss
1 $6.49 $6.49 23691 Summer Sky
1 $6.49 $6.49 23756 Twilight
1 $6.49 $6.49 23757 Spring Leaf
1 $6.49 $6.49 23758 Winter Berry
1 $6.49 $6.49 23761 Tide
1 $6.49 $6.49 23762 Chocolate
1 $6.49 $6.49 23763 Tan
2 $1.79 $3.58 23425 Cranberry
2 $1.79 $3.58 23422 Winter Night
2 $1.79 $3.58 23428 Blueberry
2 $1.79 $3.58 23421 Spruce
2 $1.79 $3.58 23427 Evergreen
2 $1.79 $3.58 23429 Snickerdoodle
2 $1.79 $3.58 23426 Maple Syrup
2 $1.79 $3.58 23424 Chestnut
2 $1.79 $3.58 23420 Coal
2 $1.79 $3.58 23774 Chocolate
2 $1.79 $3.58 23773 Tan
2 $1.79 $3.58 23775 Fog
2 $1.79 $3.58 23431 Tomato
2 $1.79 $3.58 23434 Stream
3 $1.79 $5.37 23439 Grass
3 $1.79 $5.37 23433 Fern
2 $1.79 $3.58 23436 Daffodil
2 $1.79 $3.58 23430 Pumpkin
2 $1.79 $3.58 23435 Carrot
2 $1.79 $3.58 23432 Cloud
2 $1.79 $3.58 23438 Mist
2 $1.79 $3.58 23764 Red
2 $1.79 $3.58 23765 Iron Ore
2 $1.79 $3.58 23769 Chambray
2 $1.79 $3.58 23768 Rain
2 $1.79 $3.58 23767 Asparagus
3 $1.79 $5.37 23766 Avocado
2 $1.79 $3.58 23442 Hyacinth
3 $1.79 $5.37 23440 Blue Bonnet
2 $1.79 $3.58 23441 Wheat
1 $1.79 $1.79 23730 Cream
1 $1.79 $1.79 23731 Ash
1 $1.79 $1.79 23732 Fog
1 $1.79 $1.79 23733 Mist
1 $1.79 $1.79 23734 Wood
1 $1.79 $1.79 23735 Fawn
1 $1.79 $1.79 23736 Tan
1 $1.79 $1.79 23737 Bark
1 $1.79 $1.79 23738 Nutmeg
1 $1.79 $1.79 23739 Twig
1 $1.79 $1.79 23722 Blue
1 $1.79 $1.79 23723 Pool
1 $1.79 $1.79 23724 Sky
1 $1.79 $1.79 23725 Green
1 $1.79 $1.79 23726 Grass
1 $1.79 $1.79 23727 Mint
1 $1.79 $1.79 23728 White
1 $1.79 $1.79 23729 Black
3 $2.29 $6.87 23463 Moss
3 $2.29 $6.87 23464 Storm
3 $2.29 $6.87 23451 Asparagus
3 $2.29 $6.87 23452 Tide Pool
3 $2.29 $6.87 23459 Frost
3 $3.29 $9.87 23510 Lettuce; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23512 Mustard; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23515 Olive; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23516 Pitch; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23517 Navy; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23519 Slate; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23776 Pool
3 $3.29 $9.87 23779 Leaf
2 $3.29 $6.58 23780 Hollyberry
2 $3.29 $6.58 23781 Cranberry
3 $3.29 $9.87 23508 Bluebell; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23520 Cream; Andean Silk
3 $3.29 $9.87 23521 Poppy Field; Andean Silk Twist
3 $3.29 $9.87 23522 Pumpkin Patch; Andean Silk Twist
3 $3.29 $9.87 23523 Prairie; Andean Silk Twist
3 $3.29 $9.87 23524 Sunset; Andean Silk Twist
3 $3.79 $11.37 23483 Lagoon
3 $3.79 $11.37 23485 Sunset
3 $3.79 $11.37 23487 Moss
3 $3.79 $11.37 23492 Summer Sky
3 $3.79 $11.37 23494 Mystery
2 $4.49 $8.98 23787 Leaf
2 $4.49 $8.98 23788 Tide
2 $4.49 $8.98 23790 Pool
2 $4.49 $8.98 23791 Bud
2 $4.49 $8.98 23792 Lettuce
1 $3.79 $3.79 23665 Caribbean
1 $3.79 $3.79 23667 Blue Jeans
1 $3.79 $3.79 23669 Trail
1 $3.79 $3.79 23670 Leprechaun
1 $3.79 $3.79 23671 Rose Garden
1 $2.29 $2.29 23660 Jewels
1 $2.29 $2.29 23661 Sunset
1 $2.29 $2.29 23663 Lost Lake
1 $3.99 $3.99 23497 Horizon
1 $3.99 $3.99 23500 Sunlight
1 $3.99 $3.99 23501 Moss
2 $3.99 $7.98 23502 Tide Pool
2 $3.99 $7.98 23503 Stream
1 $3.99 $3.99 23504 Autumn
1 $3.99 $3.99 23505 Midnight

Total: $1,141.08

Believe me now??

I have the best hubby ever

I've been craving sausage gravy with biscuits, it's this whole thing of missing my parents, so today he made it for me. It was no where near what my daddy makes, but it was good and I have to credit him for it.

Then we went out, he bought me roses from the guy on the corner, then drove me to AC moore so I could buy the yarn I've been needing for a crochet alogn that started a week ago. They didn't even have the yarn!!! I don't know where else to look for it, and if I ordered it online the crochet along would be over by the time it came! SO no crochet along this time.

I am totally psyched because secret pals will be given out soon.

I have a killer headache so I'll post pictures of my roses and hibernate a little awhile.

SP6 Questionnaire

Here's is my answers to the sp6 questionnarie. I hope this helps my secret pal, and i hope it doesn't get buried in other posts before she is able to read it.

I edited this quite a while later (abotu a week I think it's been) to add to some of my answers, and get the titles for a few things.

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
I am somewhat. I love the fancy stuff and but it whenever I can, but Lion brand is one of my favorite brands. I do however rarely ever use red heart, just because it is so scratchy. I'll usually buy the TLC if I need "the regular stuff"

2. Do you spin? Crochet? I do spin, and I only crochet, I don't knit.

3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.) I do have a few scents allergies, the trick is for me to stay away from anything spicy scented. I'm also allergic to smoke, but it shouldn't affect me if my yarn smells like it, though I would prefer if it didn't.

4. How long have you been knitting? Umm never. I crochet, I've been rocheting on an off most since I was about, but been taking it seriously sicen about March.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No not yet, but I suppose I ccould create one.

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) The Clean Linen/Cotton smell. I also love berry smells, any fruity smells, and "hippy" natural smells like frankincense, patchouli, myrrh, etc

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Oh yes, the worst you've ever seen!!

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Scrapbooking, a little bit of stamping, I make candles sometimes, I sew, I make clothes, I do pretty much everything.

9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like alternative, acoustic, female artists (cool ones like macy gray, fiona apple, tori amos, etc) I also like disco, and various musci fromt eh 60's-70's including Jimi and Janis. And yes I can play mp3s

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand? I LOVE blue, all shades. I also like natural colors, greens, olives, browns. I liek teal, turquoise, and so many more. I like pretty much all colors except I HATE purple, and dislike pink.

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am married, it'll be 2 yars October 19th, and no kids yet, but we do have two cats and a rotten horrible dog.

12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know) I want to own a store. It's a cool hippy store that sells herbs, incense, cool clothes, handmade soaps, ren fair supplies, and alot more. But that a long term thing, my dream right now is to get my design business going.

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I love them all I think. I use alot of the 100% cotton sugar n cream, and I love the fancy stuff to. I love the Lion Homespun. I pretty much use everything.

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? None really, I don't much care for the scratchy Red Heart and similiar stuch stuff, but still use it occasionally.

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s? My current crochet obsession is to make thin belt/scarf dealies. I make them about 1-2 inches thick out of various fancy yarns then they can be worn like a tie belt, a scarf, a tie, a hippy style headband, and more. I am also obsessing about the idea of crocheting a sweater and some socks. I'm really obsessed with the yarn that is made from recycled silk saris, I managed ot get a lot of 21 on ebay and use it constantly.

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? The belt things, hats I make a ton of hats, and am getting into purses.

17. What are you knitting right now? I am crocheting a shrug for a pattern test program.

18. What do you think about ponchos? I LOVE them, I even wore them before they were cool.

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Well crochet needles only come in straights so...

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? Anything but plastic, I've yet to fine a plastic hook that moved smoothly. I'm also really dieing for these ones that are made out of silver from the Celtic Swan Forge

21. Are you a sock knitter?Nope, I'll never be a sock knitter, but someday I may crochet a pair.

22. How did you learn to knit? I learned to crochet years ago, when I was about 12-13 and I begged my mom to teach me how. I wanted to make a granny square afghan, she managed to make the entire thing before I finished my first square. No matter what I do it is impossible for me to make a granny square that is actually square!

23. How old is your oldest UFO? UFO what UFO? Why would i have an alien spacecraft just hanging around?

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird? Favorite animated character? hummm Probably one of the Simpsons, or someone from Family Guy (stewie) or a King of the Hill cast member, I also like bubbles from the Power Puff girls, and I think that's it. My favorite animals are cats, dogs, ferrets, sheep (since I started spinning I've just been so in love with sheep) dolpins, manatees, whales, I think I like them all.

25. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween.

26. Is there anything that you collect? Yeah sure there is just a thing or two. Mr Potato Head (and Mrs, and the kiddos,) coins from foreign contries, Fairies somewhat, and I think I'm forgetting some stuff, I'll post it later.

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Crochet magazines- none yet, other magazines 20+ varies ones. I haven't found a crochet magazine that I'd like to subscribe to. I only make wearble art, and nothing really cutesy, and the main things in magazine don't fit those two ideas. I do subscribe to Spin Off, but want to subscribe to Fiberarts, and wouldn't mind getting handwoven.

28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on? Series of Unfortunate Events book 6 and up, The Girls in Pants book 2 and 3, and I want to start reading Harry Potter (I suppose this is the main one) So I need book 1 of that. And the second book in the series about the yarn shop, I can't remember the name of it either, A Good Yarn maybe?

29. Any patterns you have been coveting, but haven't bought for one reason or another?? No not that I know of.



And on a completely different note I am no longer allowing comments on the site. I am getting ad after ad and it is just driving me crazy!! So I disabled them and am going to find a guestbook or something that I can edit a little easier. While I am editing this let me add that I did get a guest book, it's in the right hand margin below the links above the previous post list.

Zine Contributors Needed

I'm starting my next two zines and am looking for contributors. If you'd like to contribute then I'd love to have you! Here's what I'm looking for:

Crafters and Designers- I'm working on a crafty/diy zine and would love any stories, projects, articles, etc. I'd love to have various contributors for patterns and instructions, but if you'd rather put an article I can agree to that. Anything related to being crafty, making stuff, diy, etc is welcome. Some article topics are how you got into doing what you do, how art shapes your daily life, etc. This may become a regular thing depending on how it goes. If you make something small or want to includes some sort of sample product I'll include it with the zine. Some examples are sample soap slivers, fabric swatch or two, a button/badge, etc.

Anyone interested: I want to hear about 1 day in your life. I want about 2 pages of info about just any regular day. For example:Today I woke up at xx and ate dot dot for breaskfast. Here's how I made it (Instructions for your breakfast, if you had cereal still make instructions, "pick up cereal box, pour into bowl..."If you make something that day I want instructions, or atleast details (i know some of you obviously can't describe exactly how you make your products) I want the recipe for what you make for dinner. Or maybe you prefer a 9:00 I ... 9:15 I ... approach. Just do what feels right and send it to me.

If you'd like to contribute just email me at somethingelsestamper@msn.com

All contributors will get a free copy of the zine, as well as advertising in the zine both like a regular ad and with your contribution.

The planned finish date on these zines is December 15th.

Today Nick, my husband for those who don't know already, and I went out for some us time. We saw Deuce Bigalow European Gigolo, then bought some new books, went to dinner, and tried to get me to the yarn store, but they close at 6 and we got there at 6:03. I need to get this one particular yarn for my new crochet-along, which I am really excited to be doing, once I can actually get started.

So the movie was good. Sentimental in an odd way because our first kiss was in Deuce Bigalow 1, and here we are years later, married, seeing the second one.

At the book store I got the Purpose Driven Life, something I've been curious about, The Secret Lives of Bees, and The Notebook. Nick got (I was actually going to get it but when I saw him pick it up I decided to let him think it was his idea) a dragon book called Eragon. I wanted to get the first Harry Potter book and try to get started on that whole series, but I didn't make it that far before I already had an arm load full.

After we tried to go to the yarn store we got dinner. Then went to Target. I had completely forgotton at that point the fact that I read somewhere that had some yarn and knitting stuff now in the dollar days section. Everything was a dollar. It was the first thing we saw when we walked in the door. They had a few crochet hooks, one that looked like straight up crap. I wouldn't pay a quarter for them. They were really cheap looking bamboo, cheaper looking then cheap bamboo skewers, then dyed with blue to bring out the horrible condition of the wood I suppose. They did have metal, decent looking I suppose But I'm not a knitter, knitting needles, each paid in a plastic tube, and ever pair no matter what size the exact shade of green. The yarn took up most of the section. They had regular worsted weight, and some fancier stuff. All in all you could probably find a better deal elsewhere, but I loved some of the colors and textures so I just had to buy some. Here's what I got:

From top to bottom the details are-
tan boucle 1.7 oz 90 yards
a bright boucle, same oz and length
a lime-lemon green yellow boucle, same specs
a blueish-green color "funky fringe" 1 oz, 90 yards
a funky red/orange/rusty colored "fuzzy fur" .4 oz 65 yards

The boucles are a decent amount of yarn, the fuzzy stuff is only a tiny amount. I figure for $1 I can make a decent skinny scarf. Lately I've been in love with skinny scarves that are only abut 1-2" wide so they can be worn as a scarf, a belt, a hippy style headband, or any other number of ways. So for $5 I can make 5 of them. Or combine all 5 and make 1 very mix-matched larger item.

And that is the sum up of my day. If you blogged about your day today, I'd love to read it, just post the link in the comments section.

Here's a few random pictures (with stories) for you. A variety of images from the last two days.

My newest creation, still in the process of balling. I LOVE this yarn!! I was going to ply it, but after I did a few yards decided I actually liek it better in singles after all.






Here's a close-Up for you:













Here' a picture of Sunshine. I looked over to make sure she was still behaving and saw that apparently she had gotten chilly in her nap, so she pulled the cover off the back of the chair to warm up a bit!














And the last two. After Nick brought home his new Riot Gear from work, I just had to try it all on. It was HOT and so heavy. After I put most of it on (including the jock strap! lol) I got a few pictures of how I would look before running out for a riot, tough face and all. I'd better run out left side first, I never did put on the other leg and arm piece. And my head felt liek it was about to crack off and roll away after puttign that helmet on. I promise I'm not that ugly in real life.












And in other news: As far as we know right now Nick won't be going to New Orleans. They already selected who they wanted to go. And I'm not getting a copier after all.

Several Indie sites are teaming up to make a donation to the Katrina victims. I plan on taking all of my available items, and putting them on the sale site. All the proceeds go to the cause. Check out all the donated items at
http://craftrevolution.etsy.com/ to see what you can buy to help the cause. Also read more about the efforts and donators at http://craftrevolution.com/craftersunited.htm

I don't know how much I can say, but I may also be donating my DH to the cause for 14-30 days.

I try to never watch the news (for lots of reasons), so when my husband told me it was just declared martial law there I figured I better read about it more. I honestly had no idea it was that bad. Please pray, chant, light candles, whatever it is that your religion does for all of these victims and the people who are volunteering to go help, and their families. If you can afford to make a donation (or spend your money on a great item that will benefit the cause) please do.

I forgot one:

8) Sunday I am going to get a copier!!! It's slightly older, but works fine and was FREE in the paper! No more trying to go to the copy shop for my zines!

Just a little update:

Here's some updates in my life for you:
1) I joined Secret Pal 6. I'm excited!
2) Saturday I quit my job, because I was fed up, and had another job pretty much lined up.
3) I just found out today that I for sure got the job, but can't start for 90 days!!
4) So I need to find a job to work for 90 days.
5) I need to make: A tie, some purses, some more hats, and a particular scarf
6) and something else that I completely forgot (because I was just forced to take care of several things in before moving from 5 to 6)
7) still no poncho pics but I swear they are coming!