tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83338482024-03-13T03:57:33.186-07:00KU CrafterVickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.comBlogger224125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-52634414389634314912009-12-29T16:58:00.000-08:002009-12-29T17:40:37.276-08:00Big ChangesWell, belated Merry Christmas everyone. Despite being snowed in for 3+ days, or maybe because of it, we had a pretty great Christmas around here. We were all pretty spoiled this year, Junior got a mountain of toys, Jaime got a sweet set of computer speakers and an Oreck. Yeah, I bought him a vacuum for Christmas, and he loved it, here's the proof:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/4216792882/" title="Amused by allsmile, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2621/4216792882_f75962092a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Amused" /></a><br /><br />And I got an iMac!! I'm so completely in love. It is taking a little getting used to, but I'll get there. Yaay!<br /><br />So besides the new computer, there are a few other new things in our lives. Starting Monday I officially have a new job. In the past three years I have worked my way up from a part-time student to the head of my section. I have been acting in this position for a couple months so it isn't a huge change, but now it is real. I am in charge, eek! <br /><br />There's even something new in the bathroom these days. (OK, that could go so many bad directions) Junior has his own potty now! We finally decided to try this potty training thing. I'm a little scared and we have no idea what we're doing, but Junior has gone potty before bed the last two nights, so I guess we're on the right path. <br /><br />As they say, the more things change the more they stay the same. With all the new going on life is still pretty boring aorund here which is just how we like it. There's been some knitting, some spinning, a bit of reading, and lots of just hanging out with my two boys and enjoying life. <br /><br />I know I probably say it every time, but now that I have a computer to myself and it is in a convenient place I'm really planning on updating more often. Here's a random bit of cuteness to get you through till the next time :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/4216015591/" title="My Little Cowboy by allsmile, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2600/4216015591_4edb6cb238.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="My Little Cowboy" /></a>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-35001811077547230472009-09-16T19:23:00.000-07:002009-09-17T10:11:19.348-07:00Show And TellI know, finally right? Admittedly I probably wouldn't even be here now except My arm is a little sore from the knitting with big needles (US 10.5, pretty big compared to the 1.5's I've been using recently). So rather than cause permanent damage I decided to take a night off. Which sort of stinks cause I am really close to FINALLY finishing this damn scarf, but more on that next time. <br /><br />This post is my photo tour of the past...little while, sock style. It's been all socks all the time around here for a while.*<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3922897872/" title="CIMG0265 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3494/3922897872_0419b55211_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="CIMG0265" /></a><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/double-eyelet-rib-toe-up-socks" target="_blank">Double Eyelet Rib Socks</a> from <a href="http://wendyknits.net/" target="_blank">Wendy Johnson</a> in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/seacoast-handpainted-panda" target="_blank">Seacoast Panda</a> "Surf," finished 9/13/09. These are my re-entry into the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/sock-knitters-anonymous" target="_blank">SKA</a> universe. With all that had been going on, I hadn't been participating in their monthly sock challenges much (or at least not finishing much), but life is getting a little more normal (hahaha) so I decided to jump back in. I wasn't sure how the pattern and the yarn would get along, but I think it works. <br /><br />Funny story. Jaime saw me knitting these socks and kept saying how it seemed like I had knit them before. I had no idea what he was talking about! Until a couple days ago I remember this little number:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/652336467/" title="Aunt Socks by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1112/652336467_db846fd98c_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Aunt Socks" /></a><br /><br />The socks I knit for my aunt over two years ago. Not quite the same, but still earns him big points. I'm glad he can remember...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3922111701/" title="CIMG0246 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2625/3922111701_e73d467070_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="CIMG0246" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3922111565/" title="CIMG0243 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3522/3922111565_4c518cff2f_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="CIMG0243" /></a><br /><br />Here we have the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dog-days-of-summer" target="_blank">Dog Days Socks</a> by <a href="http://blog.designedlykristi.com/" target="_blank">Kristi Schueler</a> in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/madelinetosh-tosh-sock" target="_blank">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> "Beach Towel," finished 8/27/09. This sock is brought to you by the June 2008 <a href="http://woolgirl.com/index.html" target="_blank">Woolgirl</a> Sock Club shipment. I know the club was exclusive and all, but I can't believe more people haven't knit this pattern. I loved it! The construction was so different it really kept me interested the whole time. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3922111885/" title="CIMG0249 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3491/3922111885_dae3af56cc.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="CIMG0249" /></a><br /><br />Next up are my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/twisted-cables---the-glenda-sock" target="_blank">Glinda Socks</a> by <a href="http://abit-knitobsessive.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Bethany Whitney</a> in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/madelinetosh-tosh-sock" target="_blank">Madelintosh Tosh Sock</a> "Glinda the Good Witch," finished 7/5/09. The socks came in one of the Oz kits from <a href="http://www.woolgirl.com/" target="_blank">Woolgirl</a> and is part of my goal to finish all of the sock kits I have around here. Um, ok. I LOVE these socks!!! The color couldn't be more me. I seem to be a fan of the yarn. The pattern seemed to take forever (lots of teeny cables without a needle with teeny stitches and teeny needles), but it looks fab. Yaay!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2235881290/" title="YOC Socks by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2215/2235881290_53651b6452_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="YOC Socks" /></a><br /><br />We're really traveling back in time now. These are the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/yarn-over-cable" target="_blank">Yarn Over Cable</a> socks by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/charlene-schurch" target="_blank">Charlene Schurch</a> in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rowan-4-ply-soft" target="_blank">Rowan 4 Ply Soft</a> color 378, finished 3/23/09. These socks seemed to take forever too. I like the pattern, but it wasn't that interesting and didn't even have fun yarn to help keep me into it. They turned out pretty well, and then they felted a bit in the wash. I can get them on but they're a bit snug now. These socks convinced me to start hand-washing and air drying my socks...for a couple weeks until I got lazy. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3087201144/" title="Cloning Anemone Sock One by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3109/3087201144_531107907c_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Cloning Anemone Sock One" /></a><br /><br />Last but not least, my first pair of socks this year. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cloning-anemone-rib" target="_blank">Cloning Anemone</a> by "Team Blue Moon" in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/blue-moon-fiber-arts-socks-that-rock---lightweight" target="_blank">Socks That Rock Lightweight</a> "Tide Pooling," finished 1/5/09. I am so upset over these socks I can hardly even talk about it. I made them, I loved them (PERFECT patter, GORGEOUS yarn), I wore them once maybe twice. And then I lost one of them!!! I figured it got lost at the bottom of my old closet (it was a scary closet), thought it would turn up in the move. Months later and still no sock. Makes me want to cry a little.<br /><br />So, I think we're caught up now. I owe you a spinning post in the near future. Until then!<br /><br />*99.9% of the links are from Ravelry. But for reals everyone is already there, right?!?Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-72691006851055342872009-08-20T20:04:00.000-07:002009-08-20T20:51:50.198-07:00Life Goes OnI really meant to post again before now, if for no other reason than to move down that depressing post. <br /><br />So what have we been up to? Well, we moved into my mom's house at least for now. I'm afraid it will always be "my mom's house" and never "our house." But it is a house none-the-less and beats the stuff out of paying rent for an apartment we can't stand and barely fit into. Junior has a yard that he loves, Jaime has a grill that he loves. I have room for my yarn and new spinning wheel (post on that to come...soonish).<br /><br />And for our inaugural event, Junior's birthday. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3841781894/" title="Help From His Friends by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3841781894_3cd668ecdb.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Help From His Friends" /></a><br /><br />It was a pretty small party; Jaime's parents, my dad, Junior's babysitter and her two kids. Just the right size. The kids had fun playing with all of Junior's toys and we all enjoyed the food from the grill. We're already planning a few more cookouts with friends.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3840989491/" title="Almost Two by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2580/3840989491_d0d348c9ee.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="Almost Two" /></a><br /><br />I can't believe my boy is two. He is getting so big, talking more and more everyday. He must know over 30 words by now (and of course Spongebob or "pa-bob" is one of them). He loves playing with his cars, running down the hill in the backyard and watching a cartoon whenever we can get him to sit still long enough. He is so full of energy and life it is sometimes exhausting to watch, but sometimes it can rub off on the rest of us. He's still such a joy.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-12034070957579977252009-06-25T18:28:00.000-07:002009-06-25T18:31:39.574-07:00The End<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661638738/" title="HPIM2956 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3663/3661638738_0207028997.jpg" width="500" height="374" alt="HPIM2956" /></a><br /><br />On May 14 my mom died. <br /><br />It has been over a month and I still don't know what to say. I think that about 98% of the time I am living on autopilot, in denial. The times it really gets to me most is when something happens during the day, some little thing that I wouldn't bother to tell anyone else (or couldn't), and I think about how I could tell her about it the next time we talk. Except I can't.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661639078/" title="Jennifer 11-30-55 023 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3335/3661639078_11cfea879c_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="Jennifer 11-30-55 023" /></a><br /><br />The story. Early this year my mom found out that the clinical trial chemo she was taking in Omaha wasn't working. Her doctor suggested another chemo that sometimes helps with Leiomyosarcoma, one that she could take at home in pill form. But it was hard on her. Things had been going downhill for a while I guess. But by April she was losing weight and having trouble cooking for herself. Jaime was already doing all of her cleaning and grocery shopping. So we decided to move in and try to help her out. Well, that didn't work out so well. She likes things her way and we never did get comfortable there so two weeks later we moved back out. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3660839751/" title="jennifer 10-88 009 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3407/3660839751_8032049548_m.jpg" width="240" height="182" alt="jennifer 10-88 009" /></a><br /><br />Just about the time we moved out my mom decided that the side effects from the chemo weren't worth it so she stopped the chemo. At this point she had tumors in both lungs and two in her pelvic area that we know of. Jaime and I talked and we were thinking that she might not make it into next year; 2009 would probably be her last Christmas. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661639892/" title="jennifer 5-71 001 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3647/3661639892_a2dc191a20.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="jennifer 5-71 001" /></a><br /><br />So as not to worry me, in true Mommy fashion, she didn't tell me what was really going on. I knew that my aunt had been helping her out since we had moved out. One night my aunt called and said my mom wasn't doing well. We didn't know much then, but she mentioned that her long term care insurance wouldn't help because they need 90 days notice and she likely didn't have 90 days.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3660839123/" title="HPIM2981 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2602/3660839123_e0a40b3036_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="HPIM2981" /></a><br /><br />At this point my mom was no longer leaving the house. Hospice nurses were coming over several times a week to check in and get her what she needed. A couple days later I left work early so that I could meet the nurse when she was checking in. She said we had a couple weeks. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661639446/" title="early pics017 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3543/3661639446_4dc13e13af_m.jpg" width="140" height="240" alt="early pics017" /></a><br /><br />Days went by and my started using a cane to get to the bathroom right outside her bedroom. Then she opted for a bedside commode and stopped leaving her bedroom. She virtually stopped eating; having a half a jello cup for a meal. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3660838195/" title="HPIM2916 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3300/3660838195_20fe4c79b6.jpg" width="374" height="500" alt="HPIM2916" /></a><br /><br />On Friday May 8th the nurse said she wasn't sure my mom would make it to the next scheduled visit on Monday. That Sunday was Mother's Day and that is the day that we said goodbye. She was ready.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3660840199/" title="jennifer 7-84 005 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2609/3660840199_37817c2270_m.jpg" width="240" height="172" alt="jennifer 7-84 005" /></a><br /><br />I got no sleep that night. I kept waiting to hear the phone ringing, my aunt calling to say she was gone. I took Monday off of work so that I would be around in case. The nurse came and told us how strong my mom was. It could be any time. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661639726/" title="jennifer 1971-2009007 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3313/3661639726_17b2e53f97_m.jpg" width="240" height="161" alt="jennifer 1971-2009007" /></a><br /><br />I had to go to work the next day. I would have lost my mind sitting around and waiting. My mom wasn't in the mood for company anyway. Every night after work I'd stop by to see how things were going, give her a hug and kiss, maybe tell her a bit about my day. She was always pushing me out the door, telling me to get home and spend time with Junior, to rest after a long day at work. We had said everything there was to say.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3661639324/" title="early pics001 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3656/3661639324_d515dc57ea_m.jpg" width="194" height="240" alt="early pics001" /></a><br /><br />Thursday after work my aunt stopped me outside the door and said that there wasn't much time left. I still wonder what the nurse saw that made her decide that. I went upstairs to say hi and rather than being under the covers as usual she had all the covers off and an icepack on her forehead. By this point she wasn't eating of drinking and her mouth was so dry she could hardly talk. I sat with her for a few minutes (she said my hand was too warm so I couldn't hold her hand) until my aunt came up. I went to my car and called Jaime to tell him I needed to stay a while and see what happened. She hadn't told me to leave yet and I knew that wasn't a good sign.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3151969511/" title="Three Generations by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/3151969511_790b18d10a.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Three Generations" /></a><br /><br />So I sat with her. Flipping over the icepack every few minutes when it lost is chill. Finding a fan that I could point at her to try and keep her comfortable. And then I watched her take her last breath. <br /><br />I don't know if anyone has made it this far, or if anyone even checks this blog anymore. But I needed to get this out. My mom gave me so much in life. Most of all, and the thing that I will never forget, was her love for me and for my Junior. I will miss her every single day, but most of all I miss that Junior won't remember her and how much she loved him.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-42907305541762049052009-01-01T18:41:00.001-08:002009-01-01T19:01:22.332-08:00New Year, Same Old Me(4/143)<br />Happy New Years everyone!! I hope you have all enjoyed looking back at the past year and looking ahead to the next. <br /><br />When I think about 2008 all I can see is how damn lucky I am. I have never been happier in my entire life. The depression has lifted. (Don't get me wrong, I get down sometimes just like everyone else, but I can move through it and past it now.) I have the most amazing family. I have a job that I love and that is pretty darn secure (knock on wood). While all around me, all around the world, there are people losing their jobs and their homes here we are having one of our most stable and prosperous years ever. (NOT that we're rich, just that for once the money I bring in is pretty close to covering the bills. It hasn't been like that since....ever.) Enough reflecting. Point is, '08 wasn't bad.<br /><br />The wonderful thing about starting the 101 in 1001 in December is that I don't have to make any New Year's resolutions. I feel like I pretty much covered all the changes I want to make and the goals that I have already. I just need to act (my downfall). <br /><br />Here are some belated Christmas pictures. Meant to get a post up, but I suck. Christmas was pretty fab. Jaime even enjoyed it and he is a Scrooge. Junior really helps put some magic back into the holidays.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3151966193/" title="Getting The Hang Of It by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/3151966193_e219fbded6.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Getting The Hang Of It" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3151967347/" title="My Favorite Picture Ever by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3233/3151967347_39b77ab933.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="My Favorite Picture Ever" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3151969511/" title="Three Generations by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/3151969511_790b18d10a.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Three Generations" /></a><br />me, Junior, and my mom or "Granny Jenny"<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3151968947/" title="Cheese! by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3077/3151968947_51be4f2439.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Cheese!" /></a>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-22630278146486792192008-12-23T04:00:00.000-08:002009-01-01T19:01:41.203-08:00The List (3/143): Past DueA quick post to say, "Gaaaah, I'm behind!" The list has been pushed to the side a bit this past week. I guess the holidays will do that. I'm behind on a few of my weekly tasks (for instance, this post should have gone out by Sunday...) <br /><br />But I'm not giving up. To err is human and all that. I will just have to play a little catch up. The List must go on.<br /><br />In other news, I'm also behind on Christmas knitting. So I said I'd knit Junior, Jaime and myself stockings this year. Welllll, I finished mine and started Jaime's. I just don't have it in me to stress and force myself to try and fit in another before Christmas. Junior won't know the difference, right? So now I just have to finish Jaime's. Heh.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-66305636340652892652008-12-14T16:41:00.001-08:002008-12-23T04:05:53.256-08:00The List (2/143): The Escape ArtistThis week's update is brought to you by list item #83. take 5 pictures per month of Junior. He's given me plenty of photo ops this week with his great escapes and expert climbing skillz.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3093311560/" title="Junior's Throne by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/3093311560_871b9f77a8.jpg" width="331" height="500" alt="Junior's Throne" /></a><br />taken 12/8/08<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3108344239/" title="In A Drawer by allsmile, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3087/3108344239_befe19286e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="In A Drawer" /></a><br />taken 12/12/08<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3108344397/" title="His Perch by allsmile, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3145/3108344397_09d0ca621d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="His Perch" /></a><br />taken 12/11/08<br /><br />So, I think it goes without saying that I haven't gotten much else done this week. I am still working on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/winter-stars-christmas-stocking-2" target="_blank">Jaime's Stocking</a> when I have the energy to knit. The heel is turned and I just have the foot and toe left. I'm beginning to have my doubts as to whether I'll pull off ANOTHER stocking, this time for Junior. Seriously, 10 days left...Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-47470914918615760992008-12-01T17:37:00.001-08:002008-12-01T18:03:43.955-08:00The List (1/143)So there was this thing going around last January. You make of list of 101 things you'd like to do in the next 1001 days. Like a super-resolution. It sounded cool so I started my list, got to 60 or so, and said eh. I'm not good with commitment (except for you, Pookie) or deadlines. If I can't handle one resolution, what makes me think I can handle 101??<br /><br />And that was that. Until a few days ago when I got bored (but not at work, never!) and saw the saved Google Doc with my list. I opened it up and for the heck of it started re-arranging and editing and adding a few things. I got to thinking maybe I'm in a better place for this sorta thing now. January 1, I'll give it a go. I edited my list for a couple more days and then decided that there is no time like the present and if I wait till January I'll just lose steam and quit again. <br /><br />Today, December 1, 2008 is the day. Wanna see <a href="http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dfc6vwnf_7cx7twbg7" target="_blank">THE LIST</a><br /><br />Things I've started working on are bold and (eventually) things I've finished will be crossed out. <br /><br />One of my goals is to post at least once a week (I like a challenge), so hopefully Monday will become list day and I can highlight an item or two that I'm working on.<br /><br />84. Read to Junior everyday, 51 free passes (1/950)<br />It is so hard for me to make time to read to Junior everyday. I know it is so good for him, but he resists (it requires at least something resembling stillness, not his strong suit) and I am just so tired after working all day blah blah blah. No more excuses!!! Tonight we read a nice simple board book <span style="font-style:italic;">Toys</span> (tried to link to Amazon, don't bother searching on there for "toys") with colorful pictures of toys. Junior really liked it!! I got almost all the way through before he wanted to flip pages. After we were done he walked away with it and paged through it a few times alone. He didn't even try to eat it for a couple minutes. I'm so glad I started this!!Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-82524163617898405882008-11-28T21:12:00.000-08:002008-12-23T04:07:24.283-08:00Let The Holidays BeginWell, Thanksgiving has come and gone. I am ready to give in to the holiday season. This year will of course be different. Junior is one year older and I think he's going to enjoy getting some gifts from Santa Clause. And hopefully he won't mind meeting Santa either...<br /><br />So of course there is the holiday knitting. I try not to get too crazy with the holiday knitting plans. I'm not good with deadlines and don't want to make myself insane. Buuut, there are a few things I have planned. I've even finished a few projects.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3065183039/" title="Vicki's Stocking Unblocked by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3021/3065183039_cca743cbf1_m.jpg" width="160" height="240" alt="Vicki's Stocking Unblocked" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/winter-stars-christmas-stocking" target="_blank">Vicki's Stocking</a><br /><br />I'm going to knit Jaime, Junior and I stockings this year. I had talked about it last year but never got motivated. And yes, I knit mine first. I knew that the first one (being the first stranded knitting I've done in over 2 years) might be a little wonky and I want Jaime's and Junior's to be (closer to) perfect. I've started Jaime's stocking and so far I was right. It is going so much more smoothly (and quickly, that goodness).<br /><br />I also finished a simple hat for Jaime. I knit him one a few years ago, but it has always been a bit big and he wanted some variety.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3065181215/" title="Hat For Hubby by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/3065181215_b97834237b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Hat For Hubby" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/a-hat-fit-for-a-boyfriend" target="_blank">Hat For Hubby</a><br /><br />He really likes is and even requested one in a bright orange. Now I just need to find a good yarn...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/3064433663/" title="Yaaay For Thanksgiving! by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/3064433663_5295f1a16a_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Yaaay For Thanksgiving!" /></a><br />taken 11/27/08<br /><br />Had to add in a picture of Junior. This is us after our Thanksgiving dinner. Junior ate with us this year. Well, he ate sweet potatoes at least. <br /><br />So, that's all for now. I have a new project that I'm starting up on December 1st. More on that in a couple days.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-30276058302838692562008-09-25T22:52:00.000-07:002009-01-08T16:20:59.152-08:00It Has Been Far Too Long...since I've posted a picture of Junior. Right?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2885789945/" title="Peas And Carrots by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/2885789945_ce4fac7382.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Peas And Carrots" /></a><br />taken 9/24/08<br /><br />I think he has finally turned a corner and decided to give table food a real go. Last night he had peas and carrots and apples for dinner. Yaaaay! He's so big now. And he is getting harder and harder to entertain. Jaime and I play with him, and he has toys, but he just seems to need more excitement. My mom went with Jaime and Junior to look at cars and Junior was an angel (ok, those were my mom's words and of course she thinks he's an angel). When we're out of the house he's fine. I think he is just bored of his toys, his room, us. <br /><br />Sooooo, knitting. Right. I've been knitting a little bit.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2885792535/" title="Palm Cozy by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3253/2885792535_2fc01ff378_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Palm Cozy" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2885792409/" title="Monkey Socks by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/2885792409_398f0e6a9a_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Monkey Socks" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2885792299/" title="Blue Jeans Socks by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/2885792299_e284b7fd7d_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Blue Jeans Socks" /></a><br /><br />That would be <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/palm-cozy" target="_blank">palm cozy</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/monkey" target="_blank">Monkey's</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/blue-jeans-socks" target="_blank">Junior's blue jeans socks</a>. They are all knit in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/lornas-laces-shepherd-sport-multi" target="_blank">Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sport</a> in Jeans. I just can't get rid of this yarn! I bought two skeins for socks and only used a teensy bit from the second skein on my Monkey's. I'm thinking Junior might get his first hat this fall made to match his socks. <br /><br />Ok, one more Junior pic for the road.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2885790091/" title="Just Junior by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/2885790091_781a05df99.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Just Junior" /></a><br />taken 9/24/08<br /><br />I sure love that kid.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-86182139796200027502008-09-15T16:43:00.000-07:002008-09-15T17:23:47.109-07:00Again With The SocksFor a week or so there I was knitting something besides socks. It was between <a href="http://rockinsockclub.com/" target="_blank">RSC</a> mailings and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/sock-knitters-anonymous" target="_blank">SKA's</a> month off. I knit maybe 4 inches<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2811860387/" title="My So Called Scarf: The Beginning by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2058/2811860387_0cb43e02c3_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="My So Called Scarf: The Beginning" /></a><br /><br />And then, again with the socks. First, some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/monkey" target="_blank">Monkey's</a>. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2860426871/" title="by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3203/2860426871_74bf45ff4c_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" /></a><br /><br />It only took me 2 years to get to this pattern. Actually at first I wasn't impressed by it. But after seeing so many variations I caved. I'm in love!<br /><br />Next, the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/skas-orange-mystery" target="_blank">September mystery socks</a> for SKA. The challenge was to knit orange socks. It doesn't count as stash if I start them right away.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2861255096/" title="by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3066/2861255096_b810ba5472_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" /></a><br /><br />As far as the life that goes on between sock knitting sessions, it's been going pretty well. <br /><br />We're in the busy season at work, gearing up for year end close out at the end of this month. It's been a little crazy but I'm still loving it. <br /><br />Junior gets more ornery every day. He gets into EVERYTHING. I just have to remind myself that his curiosity is a good thing. He still isn't talking at all, which worries me sometimes, although everyone says I shouldn't be concerned. Aaaand the only "big boy foods" he'll eat are cheerios, cheez-its and just recently frozen soft pretzels (ok, and there was that one time I let him nibble on my oreo cakester, but that doesn't' count at all). UGH! It is so frustrating. The doctor said not to force it, which is good cause the boy is seriously stubborn. Don't know where he gets it...Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-52656084308791272282008-08-25T04:26:00.000-07:002008-08-25T04:39:47.113-07:00Ravelympics Drop-outI finished a sock. No, really A sock. I'm making good progress on the other half of the pair...<br /><br />See, Junior decided to put his birthday right in the middle of the Olympics. So inconvenient. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2773282952/" title="Birthday Prince by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3119/2773282952_be3248d0b0.jpg" width="334" height="500" alt="Birthday Prince" /></a><br />8/16/08<br /><br />We had company in town (in our apartment, on our couch to be precise) for a week. I took two days off from work, and we kept so busy I was almost glad to get back to work. The party was small, just my parents, my mother-in-law, and us. We had considered inviting all my extended family and some friends, but I'm sooo glad we didn't. I had estimated we would make it to my mom's at around 2. We didn't get there till 4. The day was stressful, but we managed to have a great time watching Junior open some gifts and eat some cake.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2772434561/" title="Gratuitous Messy Cake Photo by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2772434561_e7ab43e4e6.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Gratuitous Messy Cake Photo" /></a><br />8/16/08<br /><br />Happy Birthday Bubby!Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-3796842496280436512008-08-11T09:15:00.001-07:002008-08-11T09:17:09.763-07:00Olympic Knitting Begins<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2751347231/" title="photo sharing" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3145/2751347231_32ba253141.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /></div><p>Joiner that I am, I signed up for the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/ravelympics-2008" target="_blank">Ravelympics</a>. But in a non-commital way. I am competing in the WIP wrestling event, meaning my goal is to finish stuff. As much stuff as I can. <br /><br />Fortunately for me, my newest obsession (seen above) was started a week ago and therefore technically counts as a WIP. Maybe not the intention of the event, but whatever. They're actually going relatively quickly and after they're finished I plan to actually dive into my UFO bin. Scary!</p>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-3347401098196033402008-08-05T09:49:00.001-07:002008-08-11T09:18:32.146-07:00New Sock Parade - Part One<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2733462669/" title="photo sharing" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3256/2733462669_18035bf6b0.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /></div><p>In my blogging absence I've finished a few pairs of socks. This is the most recent, I'll work my way back in time in the next few posts.<br /><br />Details*:<br />May 2008 Rockin' Sock Club yarn and pattern<br /><a href=http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cleopatras-stockings"" target="_blank">Cleopatra's Stockings</a> by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/yarnissima" target="_blank">Yarnissima</a><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/blue-moon-fiber-arts-socks-that-rock---lightweight" target="_blank">Socks that Rock Lightweight</a> in The Incredible Shrinking Violet<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Allsmile/cleopatras-stockings" target="_blank">Ravelry Project Page</a><br /><br />mods: none<br /><br />For the first sock, I added some stitched to accomodate my wide feet. After binding off, I realized that not only were the mods unnecessary, but I had also made the foot too long. I couldn't bare to rip yet, so knit the second sock to be sure I could make it with no mods (I don't trust sock patterns; see my above comment re: wide feet). They were PERFECT, so then I got two knit sock 1 again. I didn't know if I'd make it, but I managed to finish. It helped to have <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/ravelympics-2008" target="_blank">Ravelympics</a> and the next club shipment coming up. <br /><br />So, they fit wonderfully with no changes at all. I even managed to knit a decent sized cuff. (I usually go for anklets or short cuffs as my calves are pretty wide as well.) The yarn is fab, the socks are lovely. I'm a happy sock knitter!<br /><br />* I'm a rabid Ravelry-er, so many links point to Ravelry. This is your fair warning. If you aren't a member, sign up already!!</p>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-12238312948687696982008-08-04T08:16:00.001-07:002008-08-11T09:18:12.228-07:00Time Flies<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2731021733/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/2731021733_7b1aa7b4f7_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2731021733/">Patient</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/73898637@N00/">allsmile</a></span></div>I can't believe my baby is getting so big! Just yesterday he decided he'd like to walk. I was sorta weepy all day, thinking of what a big boy he is and how quickly this year has gone. <br /><br />Junior really is such a joy. I know I say that pretty much every time i talk about him, but it's true! He loves to play and laugh. I don't know how I'd make it through some days without knowing I get to go home and play with him. <br /><br />Ok, so he can be a booger. he is REALLY curious and gets into everything. And now his favorite thing is to put EVERYTHING into his mouth. Every little piece of fluff on the floor, every crumb, everything. We are still having some trouble getting him to eat table foods without gagging, but junk off the floor he doesn't have any problem with. <br /><br />Junior will be turning one year old on August 15th. We have a very small party planned, just my parents, Jaime's mom who is flying in from CT and us. We really wanted it to be a nice no-stress party for the people who love Junior most in the whole world.<br /><br />My baby isn't a baby anymore!<br clear="all" />Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-34313388255342994252008-07-06T08:44:00.000-07:002008-07-06T09:12:20.302-07:00Suburban Farmgirl?What can I say? I'm a total <a href="http://www.moderngypsy.com/blog/" target="_blank">Violet</a> (of <a href="http://limenviolet.com/" target="_blank">Lime & Violet</a> fame) follower. First she got me addicted to <a href="http://www.plurk.com/user/allsmile" target="_blank">Plurk</a>. And then, the <a href="http://www.moderngypsy.com/farmgirl/" target="_blank">Plurkette Hencircle</a>. I tried to hold out, but they she mentioned a project. I LOOOVE projects. So this is project #1, my introduction.<br /><br />I'm Vicki, hi. I have a wonderful husband, Jaime. We've been married for almost a year, but we've lived together for 6-ish years and been together for over 7. We have a sweet boy, Junior, who is almost 11 months old (can't believe that). His middle name is trouble, and he has the sweet smile and beautiful blue eyes to get away with most of it. Jaime and I are working to re-claim our relationship after adjusting to the baby. <br /><br />I work for the US Geological Survey as a budget analyst. It isn't what I had always pictured myself doing, but I have a thing for numbers. I LOVE my job. I work with some wonderful people and, while I don't always understand what the scientists are doing, I know it's important work. I'm so lucky I can leave my baby with someone I totally trust, Jaime.<br /><br />I used to have lots of hobbies, in the pre-Junior days. I'm also still adjusting to having a baby (and a job). I have just recently realized that I need to take care of myself. Even if it's just 20 minutes for an exercise video and an hour for knitting before bed, I need that me time. Eventually I will get back to reading (I miss you reading!) and scrapbooking (god knows I have the pictures now). I would love to really throw myself into quilting and spinning. And I've always been down for some random craftiness. <br /><br />The only other big aspect of my life if my mom. She was diagnosed with breast cancer my freshman year of college (she put off telling me so I would be able to concentrate for finals). She opted for a double mastectomy, so fortunately that cancer hasn't been a problem since. Less than a year later, however, she was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma in her uterus. This isn't a cancer that surgery can make go away, it just hides for a while. There is no recovery. Since then she has been through multiple rounds of chemo and radiation. She has had surgeries to remover tumors in her ureters and her lungs. <br /><br />Sooo, why the desire to nourish my inner farmgirl? I need simplicity. I love the whole idea of creating. I also love the idea of the sisterhood, the connection. I have been thinking a lot about connecting lately, especially as it relates to my blog. I was thisclose to retiring the old blog. But I just couldn't do it. I love being able to share myself with this community. <br /><br />For anyone visiting my blog for the first time, I hope I've given a pretty good picture of who I am. And if anyone else is still reading, hopefully I've shared something new. I can't wait to see what adventures and projects are coming up.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-53638880688972425232008-05-04T18:47:00.000-07:002008-05-04T19:25:13.976-07:00Mobile Bloggin' ItSo here I am in Denver. I'm here for the next two weeks for a work-related course. The hotel is fab (<a href="http://www.magnoliahoteldenver.com/denver.aspx" target="_blank">the Magnolia</a>) and I have a vehicle from the office to get me around. Last time I went to a training I was stranded at the hotel with no way to get around. This time I'm armed with a car and the directions to four nearby yarn shops. Now I just need to find a McDonald's for food (whatever I don't use of my daily food allowance I get to keep). <br /><br />I'm sorta excited to be here, out on my own. I've never lived on my own or traveled on my own so this is an adventure for me. And it's kida cool to be able to knit or read or whatever whenever I want. <br /><br />Oh, but then there's this:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2429685038/" title="000_1609 by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2167/2429685038_bb4185473d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="000_1609" /></a><br /><br />I miss my boys like crazy!!!Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-20461386082721744102008-04-06T11:34:00.000-07:002008-04-06T11:34:00.923-07:00My BabyJunior is getting so big!<br /><br /><a title="Easily Amused by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2383294161/" target="_blank"><img height="333" alt="Easily Amused" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3007/2383294161_2406b65bf6.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />taken 3/28/08<br /><br />And yes, that is Jaime's favorite oufit to dress him in.<br /><br />I have probably said it before, but we really do have it pretty good with Junior. He sleeps well, he eats like a champ (we rarely even use a bib, Junior doesn't like to let food go to waste by making a mess), he holds his own bottle. And he's just so much fun! All the toys we'd gotten him are really getting some use now as he's starting to figure things out and realize that not everything is a chewtoy (ok, there's still a lot of chewing, but still).<br /><br /><a title="The Ball by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2353743598/" target="_blank"><img height="333" alt="The Ball" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2353743598_614a463064.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />taken 3/8/08<br /><br />Just in the past month Junior has started "crawling." Of course his form isn't perfect, he looks like he's doing the army crawl through a trench, but he sure is mobile. Every time we put him down he goes straight for the TV/stereo cords, the little booger. And of course he has no patience for sitting nicely with boring Mom and Dad anymore. So we got him what I lovingly refer to as his cage.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2385675547/" title="Monkey In His Cage by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2123/2385675547_255e68286b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Monkey In His Cage" /></a><br />taken 4/3/08<br /><br />We have a relatively small apartment and there just really isn't any way we can baby proof even one room well enough that he can be left alone. So we set up this gate in his room. It is genius! He can play with all his toys and have room to move around (my problem with all the pack-n-plays we looked at) and when we want to join in we just open up one side.<br /><br />Everyone keeps saying that before long he'll be pulling up and walking. I just want my baby to stay small for a little bit longerVickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-53526682242598494162008-04-03T11:16:00.000-07:002008-04-03T11:34:33.511-07:00Mission: SOCKS!Of course. As soon as I swore I wouldn't cast on till I finished Serendipity I lost all interest in it. Well, in my defense things got busy (busier than normal that is). So the last sock drug on a bit. But, they're done now and I'm IN LOVE!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2384115276/" title="Serendipity Socks After A Long Day by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3085/2384115276_9b0f95fb89_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Serendipity Socks After A Long Day" /></a><br /><br />They fit perfectly and they even survived a long day at work. I'm definitely a <a href="http://www.bluemoonfiberarts.com/newmoon/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=182_4" target="_blank">Socks that Rock</a> convert. (For the record, I'm enjoying the mediumweight a bit more than the lightweight used here)<br /><br />After wearing these socks Tuesday and an older pair of handknit socks Wednesday, I've come to a conclusion. It's a mission really. Life is much too short for poor-fitting socks! Nearly every sock I've knit to this point has been "great but." You know, great but a little loose, great but too short, great but bound off too tightly. Most of the time I knew the problem as soon as I tried the socks on, but decided it wasn't that big of a deal, or I just really wanted to be done with them. <br /><br />NO MORE!!! These socks took a little more time, I mean it nearly killed me to have to rip back after I thought I was done, but it was so worth it. Now I have a pair of socks I look forward to wearing. From now on, I will not settle. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2384115378/" title="Serendipity Sock Detail by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3171/2384115378_be0a651ef3_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Serendipity Sock Detail" /></a>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-24903634231110672162008-03-22T22:18:00.000-07:002008-04-03T11:54:33.774-07:00When Motivation And Energy MeetUntil a couple weeks ago, I really hadn't knit since my trip (had to go to DC for a work-required class for a week in February).<br /><br /><br />Fortunately, Junior has slept through the night since about 7 weeks and not long after that he established a pretty regular schedule of going to be between 8 and 9. I generally don't make it to bed till at least 10:30 and sometimes later, so it seems like I'd have plenty of time to get in some knitting or anything else. Except I was tired. I work all day and then come home and play with/take care of Junior so Jaime can have a break. I never even get a chance to eat dinner till the kid is in bed. So mostly I would just sit between his bedtime and mine.<br /><br /><br />For some reason though, I've been feeling a lot less tired lately. Work has been going well and Junior really enjoys playing with all his toys, so I can maybe even manage some dinner while he's awake.<br /><br /><br />Add this new energy to my recent motivation, namely the <a href="http://rockinsockclub.com/" target="_blank">Rockin' Sock Club</a> and suddenly I'm knitting again.<br /><br />I had started the first sock on my trip but never finished it. Then all of a sudden the next shipment seemed to be sneaking up on me. One glorious Saturday afternoon alone and a few good lunch hours and I've finished sock one and am making good progress on sock two.<br /><br /><br /><a title="Serendipity Sock by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2353740704/" target="_blank"><img height="160" alt="Serendipity Sock" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3166/2353740704_0e1d37714d_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br /><br /><br />I REALLY want to keep up with this club, if I do nothing else knitting related this year. I just received the March club shipment and can't wait to get started. I had finished my Serendipity socks last night and just wanted to take a few pictures. This is how one picture turned out.<br /><br /><a title="Uneven Serendipities by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2352909459/" target="_blank"><img height="160" alt="Uneven Serendipities" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2397/2352909459_bc0a9e28ae_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br /><br />Don't know if you can tell but the bottom sock is a wee bit shorter than the other. Yeah, I sorta forgot half a repeat of the pattern on the second sock. I was just so excited to finish it! So I ripped back and am patiently (haha) working my way towards the finish line again. My new yarn keeps staring at me though...<br /><br />Hopefully I'll have some finished socks to show you very very soon!Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-37975818503642778552008-03-17T10:18:00.001-07:002008-03-17T10:30:23.474-07:00All But Given UpI had basically given up on ye olde blog. Life was crazy (baby, work, holidays, baby, more baby). I didn't feel like I had anything to offer, maybe I still don't but whatever. Honestly, I was still adjusting and it is just now that I am finally feeling able to take some bits of time for myself. I know making time for myself is important, it is just something that I wasn't used to having to work on. I'll admit it, my life has been pretty easy and "me time" hasn't been hard to come by until just recently.<br /><br />So in a nod to making myself a priority (not top priority mind you, but on the list at least), I've decided to come back to the blogging world. I missed you!<br /><br /><a title="Sitting up! by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2315873686/" target="_blank"><img height="500" alt="Sitting up!" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2328/2315873686_5322ac6196.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />taken 3/6/08<br /><br />Updates soon!!Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-64908950175690961032008-01-04T17:05:00.000-08:002008-03-21T07:35:33.385-07:00We Made ItI hope everyone enjoyed the holidays. Junior's first Christmas went pretty well. He got some fun toys that he can almost play with as well as the biggie, his jumper.<br /><br /><a title="New Toy! by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2140423160/" target="_blank"><img height="333" alt="New Toy!" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2298/2140423160_a89b54f130.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />taken 12/25/07<br /><br />He seems to like it, except when he becomes fixated with getting the frog into his mouth and he can't quite get it. Then he gets pissy.<br /><br />I got some nice gifts too. Jaime got me a beautiful Knitter's Satchel from <a href="http://www.jordanapaige.com/index.html" target="_blank">Jordana Paige</a>, some super cute, sock-showing-off clogs and a couple other little things.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-6178746807809003262007-12-11T08:33:00.000-08:002008-03-21T07:26:51.515-07:00How Goes It?Slow <s>and steady</s>. No, just slow. I've made some progress on the beret for my mom. I'm not terribly confident that it will work out though. See, the store bought one she had made her head hot and she blames wool. And I know she hates acrylic (a yarn snob and she doesn't even know it) so I decided to try a cotton linen blend, appropriately named CotLin from Knit Picks. I think I'll at least end up with a head covering of some sort, I'm just not sure how beret-like it will be.<br /><br />No other progress has been made. Well, at least no other knitting progress.<br /><br />Junior is making progress. A few nights ago he decided not to go to sleep until 1AM and used that extra time to come THISCLOSE to rolling over from his back. I was there cheering him on and he was just almost there a few times. But then he got tired (ok, we both got tired) so we gave up for the day. Now I'm convinced he just likes spending time on his side. He's even fallen asleep like that a couple times. Sooo cute.<br /><br />Daily baby pic - check out that hair<br /><br /><a title="Little Poof by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2093862989/" target="_blank"><img height="500" alt="Little Poof" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2288/2093862989_3af1336a9a.jpg" width="331" /></a><br />taken 12/7/07Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-30080381017785919762007-12-03T08:28:00.000-08:002007-12-03T08:34:38.582-08:00Ho Ho Ho<p>So, what craziness have I gotten myself into with the Christmas knitting? I've never gotten too swept up in it, but this year (you know, since I have so much free time on my hands) I am way in. Here goes, in order of importance: </p><p></p><ol><li>Beret for my mom (she'd like it before Christmas actually, ha) <li>Sweater for Junior (only need to sew in the sleeve and seam up one side) <li>Fingerless mitts for Jaime (he's wanted a pair for a while) <li>Shrug for cousin Christina (she's 4 months older than Junior, shouldn't take too long) <li>Hat for Jaime (to match mitts) <li>Cell cozy for mom (she keeps hers in a plastic baggie right now) <li>Stockings for Junior, Jaime, and I (maybe in time for next year...) </li></ol><p></p><p>The worst part is that I haven't started any of it yet. I have a pattern for the beret, but I'm using a different sized yarn so I'll have to adjust. Same for the shrug. I'll be making up the mitt, hat and cell cozy patterns as I go. Wish me luck! </p><p></p><p>Daily Baby Pic </p><a title="Bundled Up by allsmile, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2063490390/" target="_blank"><img height="333" alt="Bundled Up" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2113/2063490390_0471e446d0.jpg" width="500" /></a> <p>taken 10/24 </p>Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8333848.post-88570518183495691812007-11-30T06:57:00.000-08:002007-11-30T07:07:53.088-08:00Pay It ForwardYeah, I suck. Moving on...<br /><br />I managed to get myself swept up in the newest blog craze, Pay It Forward. Here are the details:<br /><br />I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days. That is my promise. The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog.<br /><br />I'm going to be getting something fabulous (I'm sure) from the lovely <a href="http://renknits.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Ren</a>. So, any takers?<br /><br />(Not so) Daily Baby Pic<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/73898637@N00/2059275189/" title="Big Boy Chair by allsmile, on Flickr" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2348/2059275189_13a1c3c42b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Big Boy Chair" /></a><br />taken 10/23<br /><br />Next time, my ambitious (for me) Christmas knitting list.Vickihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05742310142135558903noreply@blogger.com0