| Goals for the 26th year |
- Quit Smoking.
- Write to Someone I Admire (Can be anyone from friend to celebrity).
- Send 27 Post Cards (I miss connecting with people outside of the internet).
Leave the State for vacation.
- Pay off my credit cards.
- Give handmade gifts for special occasions. (Due to my schedule, I will give as many as I can)
- Publish writing.
- Sky dive or bungee jump.
- Start a work out routine.
- Debate with someone and try to see their side.
- Walk for a cause.
- Take a dance class.
- Read a book a month (at least).
- Give a gift to a stranger.
- Hang out with my brother more often.
- Seek Grammar/Writing Education Opportunities.
- Volunteer my time outside of school.
- Stop to reflect on the good things. (May decide to blog it, may decide to write it down in a journal).
- Maintain a sick time balance at work.
- Save up for a cushion/emergency fund.
- Slumber Party/Diva Evening. (I miss sleep-overs!)
- Learn to walk in heels!
- Bring lunch to work (at least 3x a week).
- Take a financial workshop.
- Learn to cook/cook more often.
- Go Camping!
- Stop spending all my money on coffee!
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| Secret Pal Contest |
| Friday, March 30, 2007 |
Please post about your favorite yarn and your least favorite yarn (if you have one)! What have you made with it? Tell us about your experiences!
My favorite yarn that I have not worked with yet is Malabrigo. My favorite yarn that I have worked with it Lionbrand Homespun. It was the yarn of my very first long term project. You know, the hooded poncho that I have been working on forever. -=giggle=- It's so soft and easy to work with and it also keeps you very very cozy warm. I can't wait to finish the hood and snuggle into it. There is just something comforting about the feeling of it.
My least favorite yarn is easy...Debbie Bliss Aplaca Silk. I don't know if I got a bad batch or what but whoever said it was soft lied to me. I decided to make a pair of really beautiful corset gloves from it, because that is what the pattern called for. So I took the word of the creator that it was nice and soft and I ordered a couple skeins. I noticed it didn't feel right when I touched it. But I thought, "What the hell ? I'll knit it and wash it and it will be fine." I knitted the most beautiful gloves ever.. put them on.. and broke out into hives. So I washed it once (with a lot of fabric softener) and put them on.. Hives... Washed them again... Hives.
Needless to say, I am not a fan. Those gloves are hanging out in my closet until I find a recipient who can wear the things.
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posted by Valerie @ 11:15 PM  |
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| Insert Witty Title |
| Wednesday, March 28, 2007 |
I was at a loss for a title. I figured that would be suitable. -=giggle=- Anyways.. I am almost done with my poncho! That's right, the UFO of doom is almost complete. I posted a picture under my progress but here are a couple of shots of me wearing it.
 
Might I also add, I wore it for two minutes and it was toasty warm. I still need to add the hood to it. I was debating on either to do it or not. Grim made a valid point that I love to burrow in material, so a hood would be perfect for that. I have one major complaint against it. I didn't notice is but one of the skeins of yarn but not have been dyed very well. There is a faint white streak going clear acrossed on one side. I am not sure what to do about it. I'll probably just ignore it. I still have to weave in the ends and fix a couple of errors but I should be done with all that soon. The hood is going to be the interesting part. I also need to look up some sites on blocking. It said to do that if needed. I am not really sure if it does or not, but I'll ask someone at knitting group next week or something.
I know I am not going to get done with any of my knitting for this months along. Something about this month has made me really lazy. I just seriously don't feel like doing anything. I'll get it done eventually I just don't think it's going to be soon. Sorry stitch along but I'll have to post in the FO section instead of the Along forums.
On another note, I finished my debate for tomorrow's class. I still need to read for the test but that won't be a problem. I am forever the procrastinator. It's going to get me in trouble one day. Anways, I also just got done listening to Carrie. Awesome story and I actually like the book version better than the movie. She takes on so much more depth in the book. I just picked up Son of the Witch and I have the 3rd and 4th Harry Potters coming from the library. Everyone is happy. Grim doesn't have to listen to me watch movies over and over again and I get a source of entertainment. -=giggle=-
Anyways, that's all for now I believe. If anything else occurs to me, I'll be sure to write about it.
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| posted by Valerie @ 10:42 PM |
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| Update |
| Tuesday, March 27, 2007 |
Alright, I have finally managed to get my arse online and get some blogging done tonight. My weekend in NYC went very well. We left Friday morning around noon, got a half an hour away from the house and realized we forgot the tickets to the show. -=giggle=- Never a dull moment! So we call up the Knitting Factory and I talk to a gentleman about being put on a list for entry. He tells me to call back in 10 minutes. I wait and then I call him back. I get put on hold for close to 15 minutes or so. Needless to say I just turned around and drove home. We got the tickets, used the bathroom and we were on our way again.
The drive went very well. No traffic, the directions were direct and easy to follow. The only problem came when we hit the city. The directions were a little off. We eventually found our way to Laramie's house though and we even found a parking spot out front. She has a beautiful little apartment right in the center of it all. We dropped our stuff off and then went to eat dinner. I will say, nothing in the world is better than NYC pizza... Second to that is a Canoli. -=giggle=- Needless to say, that's what we had for dinner Friday night. Laramie took us to a couple of shops and I got a viynl skirt, a pair of jeans and a really adorable corset top. I'll post pictures soon. Then we met up with Steve and wandered around for a while. We hit up a couple more shops and I got the latest Anita Blake comics. Unfortunately, as I said in the previous post, no knitting store. Next time though, nothing is stopping me. -=giggle=-
We took the subway to the show. I have to admit, I love the subway. It's probably only because I don't have to use them everyday but the whole concept of them amazes me. -=giggle=- Anyways, the show was fantastic. Here are a couple of videos in case you have never heard of VAST. You'll either like them or you won't. =)
After the show we met up with a couple of friends of mine I haven't seen in 5+ years. I knew Louis was meeting up with me, but Chris was a suprise. It was awesome to see them again. To share stories and jokes, it always makes me smile. It's also always interesting to see changes in people. They are similar but different from how they used to be.
We went to a diner with a bitchy asshole waiter. Then we went to Laramie's to chat and hang out. Chris and Louis stayed for a while but couldn't stay for long because of work the next day. It was a lot of fun. More talking and laughing then bed time. The next morning Laramie, Steve and I went out for breakfast while Grim slept. Then once he woke up we went walking around again. I ended up buying another skirt. I know I know, me and my clothes. Then we headed to New Jersey to hang out with Luis, Laramie's Boyfriend. Another Diner, yummy food and great conversation.. Then it was time to come home. I had an awesome birthday!
When I went into work yesterday my Get Stitchy tanktop had arrived, I know I am a dork. Shoosh, I show support to places I frequent. Get Stitchy has given a lot to my knitting so I am sending a little money their way. I was a little backed up at work today but I got most of it caught up. I need to do a bunch of file work tomorrow morning. I also need to finish (start) writing the debate brief for class on Thursday. It shouldn't take long, doesn't really matter, debate is definately my thing.
I am getting kind of pissed off about my SP package. I sent it out last Monday and I still don't know if it has arrived yet. Argh! I hope it didn't get lost in the mail. I can't imagine it should take to much longer, but I don't know how long Regular mail from/to Canada (not giving away anything.. ha ha ha) usually takes. I hope I see a post about it soon. I worry about the credability of the postal service these days.
Anyways, I think that is it for tonight.
Night night all!
Oh.. Pictures.. You can see the trip and friends by going to My Photos.
Labels: Update |
| posted by Valerie @ 10:41 PM |
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| Home at Last |
| Sunday, March 25, 2007 |
We actually got home around 1am or so... Tired and blahhh so I am going to bed and I will write about my delicious experience in the morn. I will make the unfortunate note, we did not go to the knitting store. It was a little, rephrase... a lot farther than I thought it was in NY walking block wise.. It wouldn't have worked out unless I drove around that area or at least took another train. It was either the show or knitting. This time and probably only this time the show won. -=giggle=-
Good Night!! |
| posted by Valerie @ 2:58 AM |
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| 3 Day Weekend Goodness |
| Friday, March 23, 2007 |
That's right it's finally here... Thursday! I have tomorrow off and we're heading into the city for VAST and shopping fun! By we, I mean myself, Grim, our friend Laramie and possibly our friend Steve. -=does a dance=- I am beyond excited. I can't wait to be there, and this time without a hellish cold! We've got our bags all set and we'll hopefully be out of the house by 11:30 or 12:oo. We're only staying overnight but I know I will enjoy myself. Of course I have made it more than abundantly clear that someone needs to show me to the knitting stores. Everyone gets such a kick out of my yarn fetish.
Anyways, I haven't written in a while. So it's time for an update. My birthday went very well. There were a couple of spots but nothing terrible. . My boss and coworker took me out for lunch at Ruby Tuesdays. Apperantly they had already tipped the waiter off that it was my birthday. So after I ate a huge hamburger they suprised me with cake. -=giggle=- I was definately stuffed. Then the boss let me go home early. I went directly to Michael's to spend the gift card they got me. I ended up getting more Lionbrand black yarn for my poncho and some Peaches and Cream yarn for the April Showers themed along on Get Stitchy. Then I went to knitting group like normal. I love being around those guys. They always make me laugh. Grim realized he didn't have the stuff he needed for a cake so he improvised...
 
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream... My favorite!! -=giggle=- Different, yes but effective and sweet. He really wanted me to still be able to blow out my candles. Wednesday, work as usual and then afterwords my favorite past time. Going to the movies! We went and saw Zodiac. Good movie, even if I did know who and what happened with the killer. Worth seeing but I seriously overdosed on buttery popcorn. I ended up passing out on the couch with a very terrible stomach ache. Blegh. Oh forgot to mention I recieved these beautiful flowers on Wednesday from my mother/brother/her boyfriend.
I love flowers! I can't wait for my other orders to finally come so I can post pictures. I have a genuine corset arriving in the mail in the next couple of weeks. I won a kick ass pair of boots off ebay. I am still waiting to hear a price about the Scarry Merry knitting needles. I also ordered a Get Stitchy tank top. I know I am a dork stop laughing now. -=giggle=- Tonight, we dedicated to getting things done around the house. My chest is a little congested so I wanted to relax so I didn't get all yucky feeling tomorrow. That's all I can think of right now really. Oh, I don't know if I posted about it, but I am a mod on Get Stitchy now! -=does a dance=- Fun Fun!!
Labels: Birthday |
| posted by Valerie @ 12:54 AM |
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| Lovely Day and A Sleepless Night |
| Monday, March 19, 2007 |
Yesterday was awesome! I woke up early and went to pick up my brother from his friend's house. I have to admit, I hate boys when they get around their friends. It seems like no matter what age they are they all have to act like a dick (there are of course exceptions to every rule). Anyways, It took me 15 minutes to get him ready and into my car. Then for the 45 minute car ride to mom's house all he could talk about was the Razor cellphone. How it's great and he wants one... He's also 11. Apperantly his friend, also 11, got one for his birthday. I have a question... Why buy your kids (who can barely take care of a puppy) a expensive phone like that ? I mean seriously who are they even going to call on that thing ? It boggles my mind and I told him there was no point in getting one. I course, I know very little apperantly and he goes and asks my mom and her boyfriend Dave anyway. Mom probably would have caved after months and months of begging. Dave put his foot down and that was the end of it. I suddenly love the fact that my brother has a man like this to grow up with. He seems to keep him in line and that's what my brother needs.
So anyways, back to my day. Mom and I go out for lunch at a steakhouse. Of course I get steak because it's a rare treat that I do. Then we head to the casino. Let me tell you, I played like sh*t but mom... now mom did great! She walked out with 1000 dollars that she had won and she gave me $500 of it!! We had agreed before walking into the building that whatever we won we split. Well turns out she won a lot! She hit for $600 dollars within the first 15 minutes, then we were about ready to leave when she asks me for my 50 dollar ticket. She puts it into a machine and hits for $400. I was on air! So I walked out with a hell of a lot more money than I walked in with. I also had a lot of fun even if the casinos are really overwhelming.
Then we wandered around the mall for a while. I got some much needed underthings and went home and had steak for dinner. -=giggle=- I was catching up on red meat. Grim and I haven't quite figured out how to make anything but chicken yet.
I didn't get much knitting done at all yesterday. I came home and did a couple of things around the house. Grim came home with his sister, they had went to go see a show. I hugged them both and then went to bed. Then... I laid there and laid there.. 1:30 rolls around and I am still wide awake. Blegh. Needless to say I am a little tired. I am going to get some knitting done before bed tonight. I am so behind on the shawl.
Tomorrow is my birthday and I plan on going to knitting night. Then Wednesday I believe we're going out to celebrate by dinner and a movie. Zodiac is high on my list so that's probably what we'll see.
That's all for now..
Labels: Sooo Sleepy |
| posted by Valerie @ 6:52 PM |
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| Blegh Day... |
| Sunday, March 18, 2007 |
I woke up this morning feeling bright and chipper. I am concluding the day feeling very worn out though. I went outside to see if my car was burried and it was. So I got the same group to come and dig me out with a shovel so I could run some errands. Got dressed, still peppy and chipper. I got a pack of cloves and then headed to the library. I didn't realize how many books I had on hold. -=giggle=- 4 kniting books and 3 Roald Dahl books. I picked up a couple of movies to watch while knitting then ran off to the next place. I got purple hair dye from Sally's. My roots are seriously coming in but -=shrugs=- it looks good dyed over with purple. Then to Michaels to pick up a couple of things for my SP. That's when the chipperness went away. To state blunty. I have a problem with parents who don't discipline their children. However way you want to discipline is your deal but don't let your child scream at you like he's an adult. I was wandering the isles and I hear this god awful shriek and it won't stop. This little boy is yelling "You're not listening to me." At the top of his lungs. He's talking to his mom who is trying to grab her shit and get out of there. He keeps screaming, she won't acknowledge him. She won't tell him to be quiet.. Hell smack the crap out of the kid. Anything but let him behave like that in public. The dad rounds the corner and smiles at his son. Then says, you're not listening to him. The mom looks drained, she looks at the kid. He wants two more Spiderman coloring books.
What happens next ? Think you can guess ?
They buy it for him. He gets 3 coloring books for behaving terribly... and people wonder why our kids have f*cked up priorities. Anyway, this gave me a headache. On to the next store Borders. People are standing in the middle of the isles, noone is moving... I am trying desperately to slide past people and find a book. I get pissed off, and go to walk passed another girl. She doesn't move and I am talking to Grim on the phone.
" People need to learn to grab their f*cking books and get out of the way when people say excuse me"
She moved really quickly after that was said. I leave.. the headache is worse. I run to Barnes and Nobles and find a couple of things I was looking for. Finally. The headache has grown so bad I am shaking. I drive home, call Amy and ask her about the St. Patty's day party. It's on. Okay gotta get rid of this headache then. I end up coming through the door a shaking and whiney mess. My headache hit migraine status in record time. I felt crippled and it hurt me terribly to open my eyes. I finally got into bed with the wonderful assistance of Grim and slept from 5 until 10. From that point we've just been hanging out. I still feel the soft throbbing behind my eye balls. Anything can set this thing back off again. Blegh I hate headaches. I kind of feel like I wasted Saturday even though I know I didn't. I do feel bad about not being able to make the party though. I was looking forward to it.
I have been watching a lot of movies lately. Here's a mini-review:
Scanner Darkly: Awesome movie, Keanu Reeves is as awesome as ever. It has a cartoon like film the entire movie. Part animationish part not. It's a good movie to see but you can't knit to it. -=giggle=- If you get the chance you should definately watch it.
A Guide To Recognizing Your Saints: Based on a true story. Wasn't to bad, wasn't great. Sort of the basic grew up in the bad area and had to go back story. I liked it though and the acting was great.
Johnny Neumonic- An older movie but not a totally bad one. I enjoy it more for the cyber setting than the actual plot. It helps though that Grim is going to be running a cyber-horror campaign. It got me into it a little more.
She's the Man: Ehhh.. Alright I suppose. I was told by a friend it was an awesome modern day version of Twelfth Night. I guess I am stuck up because I didn't like it and the jokes were cliche'. Viola was an actress, that's why she was able to pull off being her brother so well. They made the teen girl in the movie into a soccer player who impersonated her brother to be on the sports team. She was bumbling and typical misrepresentaion of male behavior. You know like "What's done with my home-dogs g-slice?" Sort of cheesy dorky kid mentality. It was funny in spots but I wasn't fond of the changes made to such a wonderful play.
I have also watched but they're so old I won't review: Carrie, Mommy Dearest, Love Potion #9. I have taken a break from Charmed, I think I burnt myself out a little. I watched a couple episodes of Queer as Folk today, while knitting, I forgot how much I adore that show.
I got all the things together for my SP though and I will be mailing it out sometime next week. I hope she likes it. We'll see. Anyways, I am gonna go for now. I am getting that headache feeling again and I have to go to bed soon. Mom and I are going out to Lunch for my birthday and the casino. -=does a dance=-
Labels: Saturday |
| posted by Valerie @ 2:32 AM |
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| Here Comes The Snow Again. |
| Friday, March 16, 2007 |
I guess I shouldn't be suprised really, I mean it is New York. Of course I think I am the only person in this State without a shovel. That's right I procrastinated to long in getting one and now the stores aren't selling them anymore. I took an early break from work this morning and ran to Target and then to Walmart. No dice. Oh well, looks like I am paying the superintendent to shovel me out again. Hopefully it won't end up as bad as last time. It's nearing midnight and I went out about an hour ago to take picture. Here are a couple of shots I took.
 
I was a little irritated this morning because they kept screaming about Weather Advisory this and that but my boss wouldn't let us out of work. Eventually I was released a little early. -=does a dance=- Of course, I did 20 mph all the way home. It was terrible out.
On a happier note! I got a 100% on my debate speech. That's right, I made the Anti-Abortion speech work. I made it work so well that I had the class speechless. I started shaking, getting jittery when I started talking so I decided to step away from the podium. I walked around, pointed my finger, used alot of emphasis on key points. The teacher loved it, the only note that she made was that I should slow down when I talk. My partner wasn't there to present her speech. So I am, at the moment, clueless to the major points of her arguement. I guess we'll see next class. We have to have a 1 minute opening and a 1 minute closing. It shouldn't be that difficult. I think the hardest part will be the questions. I'll do alright, the tough part is over now. I will say that while researching for this paper I think I have toned done my vehemancy against Pro-Lifers. I see where they are coming from in certain regards in others I think it's a crock.
Oh! I was asked to be a Moderator for Get Stitchy! I accepted and I think it's awesome!! I was stunned when they asked me though. I didn't think many people really took notice of me there. Hattie helped me with my questions so hopefully I won't let anyone down with this one. Once I get involved and figure out where I am being assigned though it should be a piece of cake. Mmm Cake. -=giggle=-
My knitting is coming along rather slowly. I have made progress (click progress button for updated views). I am interested to see my mom's reaction when I give her the gloves. They are really turning out lovely, if I do say so myself. Other knitting related topics.. I am talking to Scary Merry about getting two sets of custom needles. A 10" alluminum Day of the Dead Set and A 10.5" alluminum custom set (you'll see if I get them).
For some reason I think I am missing something I wanted to say. I don't recall what that could be though. So I think for tonight, I will conclude this and probably post tomorrow as I am cruising around the web.
Happy St. Patty's Day To All!!
Labels: Snow |
| posted by Valerie @ 11:51 PM |
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| Playing Catch Up |
| Wednesday, March 14, 2007 |
I know.. I know it's been a couple of days now. It's been a little bit of a busy week for me. Primarily my main focus is on that silly speech I have to give tomorrow. I found an angle and ran with it. No myths, nothing that can be thrown to religion, philosophy, etc. The problem is that most of the information is really and seriously biased. I took my information straight from medical paperwork, I guess that's hopefully as unbiased as it can get. We'll see, I think it's decent and I can debate with the best of them. I'll keep you posted.
On another note, I was assigned my secret pal and someone was assigned me. I am all excited to send my first package out! And of course I am eager to see what collection of things my secret pal will be sending me. -=waves to Secret Pal=-
I got a couple of nice surprises today for my birthday. It's not until next week but I am not complaining. First of all.. I got this towards the middle of February and wanted to post it too!
I got this necklace from My friends Amy & Davinya!
 I love it! I mean it really is beautiful and it sits right next to the heart where it is supposed to. I feel bad though, I still have no idea what to get either of them for their birthdays. I guess I am just an easy person to peg for gifts ?
Next Jan sent me a package full of beautiful things.
 
The ring you can actually barely see. It's up in the left corner. Try as I might I couldn't get a good shot of the thing. It's made from pure silver that is smithed to shine like diamonds. It winds together and meets in the middle. The book Secret, which has to do with mental visualization to achieve what you desire. The silver necklace (my favorite) says "Well Behaved Women" on one side and on the other, "Rarely make history." Then the hematite bracelet, which is beautiful! I can't believe she remembered how much I love hematite. It is said that it protects you against the bad elements that you can encounter in life. Grim's grandparents also sent me spending money, which still shocks and amazes me to no end. The last thing I got today was the knowledge that I am getting the corset I wanted!! Grim and his family are chipping in their money to get it for me. They don't want me out selling everything I own for it essentially. I have already tried a friend's on, and they are beautiful!! I'll post when I actually recieve it. -=does a dance=- Mom also called and told me she was taking me out for a Spa Day on my birthday. She got me one a couple of years ago and it literally was heaven. The only thing missing was someone to dry you off when you got out of the tub and maybe those cucumber sandwiches (not that I would like them if I ate them but just giving you visuals here). I am prancing around because it's not even my birthday yet and everything rocks! -=giggle=- Next weekend is the trip to NYC. We're staying at a friend's house Friday and Saturday night I believe. Friday is the VAST show and Saturday I am going out to The Point (Yarn Store/Cafe) and then later on to a club (maybe, not sure yet). -=does another dance=-
Knitting related news... I started the shawl again, but I am just going a big garter stitch shawl. I figured that if I really wanted to make the thing, why not just make it basic. The rib stitch pissed me off so badly that I just didn't want to try that again. So the progress buttons have been updated if you want to see. The gloves are coming along nicely though. I am actually at a stopping point until I get the chance to ask for help. The pattern says that I need to knit then turn and purl. I am kind of stumped as I have never turned my work before.
Here's what the pattern says, maybe someone else understands it.
Knit 38 Turn
Purl 15 Turn
Starting w/ knit row work 6 rows in St st on these 15 st only, ending with a WS row
Change to B
Bind off loosely.
Any ideas ?
That's all for now! Post again sooner than later!
Labels: Update |
| posted by Valerie @ 10:01 PM |
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| My Ironic Semi-Moody Saturday |
| Sunday, March 11, 2007 |
For the most part yesterday was fine. I did wake up in a bad mood that I just couldn't seem to kick throughout the day. It didn't help that my back was throbbing and I just didn't want to talk to anyone really. I spent most of the day popping in movie after movie and knitting on my prayer shawl. I did make a quick run to the library so that I could get more movies. I was annoyed with watching the same ones over and over again, Grim just wanted me to stop pacing. So I picked up Mommy Dearest, Starman, Love Potion #9 and the First Wives Club. I figured that should be a mix to keep me entertained for a while. I have already watched both the funny ones so today it's knitting and drama movies I guess.
Grocery shopping is finally done. We have been putting it off for weeks. The cobwebs in the fridge were starting to scare me so we decided it was about that time. The fridge is stocked again and the pantries are filled with goodies and snacks. Wipie!
On to the Irony. Anyone who listens or knows me, knows that I am pro-choice. I am not a shove it in your face pro-choice. You're entitled to what you want to believe in, but I am pro-choice. To continue, I missed my last public speach class due to back pain. Well I guess that was the day that she assigned topics for the persuasive speech/debate. So I emailed her and asked her what I missed. She said oh... we assigned debate topics, your topic will be the position against abortion..
-=Car Screech, woman scream=-
What ?!?! I tell him, he starts to laugh... I in fact am doing a mix of frothing curses and laughing. Ironic isn't it, that in all the topics that are debateable I should get the opposition to the one I am truly passionate about. So now it looks like I have some reading to do. She took her lovely ass time getting back to me and it's due on Thursday. Time to hit the books/computer. Wish me luck because this is going to be the most ingenuine speech ever.
Knitting then triggered the silent treatment for a good half an hour. I was working on the prayer shawl and I was pretty pleased with it... There were mistakes but not to badly... Or so I thought. I wanted Grim to touch the yarn for this approval on how soft it was. He looks at it and mentions the fact that he doesn't like where I made the mistakes. I also sprinkled some mistakes around intentionally to even it out a bit. Then he affirms, No I don't like it with the mistakes. I look at him and feel my blood start to rise. He mentions the fact that if it's for my mentor you don't want to send anything that looks poorly made. I shot him a look, he stopped talking. Then he said "well you asked what I thought, I was just telling you the truth." I politely pointed out, that no I didn't ask for his opinion I wanted him to feel the yarn. Again, silence. That silence continued for a little while as I stomped into the bedroom and started frogging the prayer shawl. He was right there were a lot of mistakes but I was pissed at him because he didn't just keep his mouth shut.
Looking back, it's silly but I was in a bad mood anyway. He just amplified it by making a comment. So the prayer shawl I was working on is no more. I am thinking about making a shawl just in regular garter stitch. It will be cozy and warm and hopefully the pretty colors will speak for itself. In case they don't though, I am going to make her a Malabrigo drop stitch scarf.
That's it for now. Post more later.
Labels: Irony |
| posted by Valerie @ 11:47 AM |
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| Little Me With Nothing To Do |
| Friday, March 9, 2007 |
Well, my boss called off work today. She had a family emergency. That leaves me sitting at my desk for 8 hours with very little to do. I mean I got the timesheets and the filing done. I could fold the maps but I am pretty sure that is what has been bothering my back, so I decided to put that off until this afternoon. I keep checking her chair for anything the President as put there. I figure maybe I could type up a letter or something. Seems like a lazy Friday for everyone. Speaking of which, YEAH IT'S FRIDAY! Woohoo!
-=giggle=- Sorry had to get that out of the way. I am also in a pretty good mood. I put something like 2o knitting books on reserve at the library. I got to get to bed early and slept all through the night. Well maybe not all the way through. My cat dropped something over and it fell on my head. No worries, it was one of those plastic jester septars you get for halloween. It didn't hurt me, just startled me awake. I finally started working on the prayer shawl (Click the Progress Button For Picture).
I spoke with Jan lastnight and I think I am going to go to Ohio and meet her towards the middle of June or end of July. She also mentioned taking me to a place called Mayville. Apperantly, her and her cousin have a house up there on the lake. It's also 20 minutes away from a spiritual retreat that she thinks I would be interested in seeing. Color me excited, I am already packing my bags. -=giggle=-
Other than the above mentioned... I am just cruising around the net trying to keep myself entertained.Labels: Bored |
| posted by Valerie @ 11:09 AM |
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| Back Pain Won Out... |
| Thursday, March 8, 2007 |
I woke up in a pretty dandy mood. I was tired, but who isn't at 6 in the morning. I went into work, was doing fine until I started folding maps. I have to fold 105 maps to put into the reports that I just got done spending a full day copying. I had 42 maps left when it hit me. Crippling back pain again... I squeel but toughen up.
"I CAN DO THIS. I will not be defeated" So I do a couple more maps... Everytime I pick up and stretch out my right arm, my back pulsates with a throbbing pain. A deep breath and it hurts, a movement and I am near tears. I tried, I really did try to stay at work. My boss likes me a lot and I don't want to give her any reason at all to think any less of me. I am dedicated to this job, it's one of the best paying jobs that I have ever had and I would be SCREWED if I lost it. So I came home and took meds, took a shower and I can type and move my arms now. I haven't really tried moving since I got home really.
I got a call from Jan today (the mentor) and she is sending me a package for my birthday. Every time I hear her voice I feel at ease. I have to call her back tonight. She said something to the regards of doing a chart on me and she needs to know the place where I was born. I vaguely know what she is talking about. I'll have to ask her to describe in more detail when I call her tonight.
Tomorrow is game day! The Finale is upon us! I wonder what is going to happen to this band of heroes. Will they be beaten by the forces of the damned, will they triumph over evil or will they just run screaming ? Only time will tell. For those of you who have no idea what I am talking about.. It's RPG. I am in an all girl Warhammer campaign that Grim is running. It's been a lot of fun and very interesting. This is the finale so we can all take a break, then we're picking back up with a Cyber Punk Horror sort of Story Line. Who knows, he could change his mind fifty times before then. -=giggle=-
Knitting related. I went back to making the original rib stitch shawl I was going to make for Jan. I really like how it looks and I am not at all impressed with the triangular ones right now. I have to buckle down and start working on it. I have been sort of putting it off for some reason. I guess I was waiting to decide finally on a pattern. Anyways, I am going to go. Meds hit and it's making it really hard to type/concentrate.
Have a nice day everyone!
Labels: Back Pain |
| posted by Valerie @ 12:44 PM |
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| Malabrigo Goodness |
| Tuesday, March 6, 2007 |
Look what came in the mail today!
Just lovely aren't they ? My favorite is definately the red and the green.. As I have said, I am not much of a pink person but she threw it in for 2 dollars. I am not going to say no to that. Besides I know someone I will knit for will like pink. Now I am going to cruise around and look for patterns. I realized the other day that I have a ton of yarn now but I have no idea what to make with any of it.
I suppose it would help if I had a little time to sit and cruise the net for them. Work has been super busy. I pretty much stayed on my feet all 9 hours. I took a fifteen minute break to smoke a clove after my boss brought my lunch to me. Then or course every map I sent out to have copied drops in my lap at 4:30 this afternoon. I get off work at five so I have 4 fedexes I have to prepare, box and ship before I can even consider shutting down my area. It worked out well. I got out at 5:15 or so. Came home and didn't relax at all. The more I move around the less and more my back hurts.
Knitting news, I frogged the Prayer Shawl original pattern I was going with. I am going to do a simpler one that looks a little more solid. The one I was working on just looked...I can't think of the word... maybe sloppy. I guess the pattern intends on putting holes here and there in your knitting. I just didn't appreciate it as much as others would I guess. Jan's taste is similar to mine so I decided on another one. I'll post it tomorrow. For now I really need to go to bed even though that's the last thing I want to do.
The day is way to short.Labels: Malabrigo |
| posted by Valerie @ 11:07 PM |
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| Manic Monday |
| Monday, March 5, 2007 |
Not just an 80's song but quite the truth for today. Today was the court date... and all night Sunday, Grim and I were very very twitchy thinking about it. I barely slept, he slept two hours. It was just a big mess. So we wake up early and get to the place on time. We meet his lawyer in the elevator. She's a very nice young woman with a nervous habit of shaking really badly. I seemed to have been the only one that spotted that. So I was a bit nervous that the lawyer was shaking, she was speaking confidently enough, no tremor patterns so I figure she has a tic. She was very confident that the case would go well. She said the only problem he may have is his age but it's proven that his pain levels are not that of a man capable of full time or part time employment. Grim walked out seemingly as satisified as one can be in his situation. The last judge he dealt with was mean to him, this one was casual and comfortable. So we hear results in a month or 6 weeks. I am keeping my fingers crossed. Downer to the hole thing, they wouldn't let me have my knitting needles in there. Blegh. I had to read instead, not a bad trade but I would have rather soothed my panic with knitting.
On another note, I somehow managed to throw out my back. Yeah me! -=giggle=- I am not to worried and for now it isn't hurting. Thanks Hydrocodone! I need to make an appointment with the chiropractor and we'll get this taken care of.
I added another person to my stitch for chicks list. My mom. She had mentioned that she wanted a hat to go with her new jacket. Well I am knitting her gloves and perhaps a hat. I am not sure if she'll go for the yarn I picked out originally so I may have to go yarn shopping again. Oh...Darn. -=giggle=-
Here's what I have so far.
I will admit I am a little awed with the perfect rib stitching on this one. I have never been one to rib stitch or at least rib stitch correctly. Somehow this managed to come out perfect. I have to wait to hear back from the board about the next course of action though. I don't know what they mean by turn when making the thumb. At the moment I can't find the name of the book that has the pattern in it. Grrr. Oh well, I am going to the library to pick up some Dahl books so I'll look for it and post the name of the book.
The poncho has become my Charmed companion. Grim has even started watching them a lot with me. We're on disc 4 of season 1 and Amy just gave us season 2 to borrow. Needless to say I am going to finish the poncho before I finish watching this show. I am on the decreases now and I will confess I am going to need some help with the hood. Hopefully kind hands at the knitting group will help me for chocolates or some other delightful treat. -=giggle=- Oh I also got 2 skeins of Lionbrand suede in a really pretty deep green. I confess my yarn is growing bigger than my pattern selection. I have no idea what to make with the Malabringo or the Suede. Le Sigh... What's a girl to do ? If there is anyone reading this, please suggest away. -=giggle=- I am going to bed for now. Long day and I am glad it's done.
Night night lovely knitters everywhere and sweet dreams!
Labels: D-Day |
| posted by Valerie @ 10:17 PM |
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| Secret Pal 10 Question/Answer Form |
| Sunday, March 4, 2007 |
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I do have a passion for anything soft. Malabringo and Lionbrand Homespun for example. I do not like Debbie Bliss Alpaca silk. I don't know if I got a bad lot but it was so itchy and stiff that it made my arms break out in hives. I also discovered that wool doesn't work well with me either. =(
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I bought a zip up carrying case from A.C. Moore.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I have been knitting for about 2 1/2 years or so. I was taught the very basics from my boyfriend's mom. At the time she was bed ridden and I wanted to keep her company so I asked her to teach me. Then after I got tired of making scarves I picked up Stitch'n'Bitch and I kept on learning. I think I am somewhere in the middle of beginner and intermediate.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
5. What's your favorite scent?
I love lavender! Anything earthy really gets me though.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Yes I do have a sweet tooth. I love truffles or anything chocolate.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have been making my own stitch markers lately. I dabble with macrame. I do not know how to Spin, although I am interested in what it is and learning.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
My favorite is Goth/Industrial-esq music but I love all forms of music. My computer and car can play mp3s and I have an Ipod.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love purple, bright green, baby blue, and black. I can't stand bright neon pink and most other shades of pink.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
My mother and father are divorced. I am very close with both. My mother lives about 45 minutes away and my father lives in Mississippi. I live with my boyfriend and I do have 2 cats, Kiya and Sigh.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
All of the above.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Right now, Hats. I love learning new things to knit though so it can change at anytime.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Black Poncho
Shawl For The March Knit For Chicks Along.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
I love handmade gifts. Those are usually the best!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Definately bamboo
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No I don't
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
2 months old
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Living Dead Dolls, Egyptian Trinkets
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I know that I subscribed to Knit 1 and Creative Knitting. There is one more that I should have coming to me but I don't remember what it is.
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
Cables, Sock Making
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I haven't learned how to make socks yet but I want to. My foot measurements are... (This may not be accurate) 9 inches long, 8 1/2 inches at the ball, 8 1/2 inches at the waist, 8 1/2 Instep, 12 inches at the heel, 13 inch calf. If this strikes anyone as incorrect please let me know. I don't really know how to measure my feet for socks.
23. When is your birthday?
March 20th |
| posted by Valerie @ 12:42 PM |
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| Kitty Drama and Misc. Typing |
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So the drama I was referring to in my previous post is this... My cat Sigh is having a problem.
For some reason, despite his being "fixed" he pees randomly. It hasn't happened in 7 months and thank god he hasn't ruined anything yet. However, we live in an apartment with hard wood floors and a Doctor's office beneath us. The last thing I want is a call from the landlord saying we've ruined his apartment. This last time caught us completely by surpise. I was getting ready to go to knitting group and I go to put on my sweater. Yep, that's right he got the sweater and the couch. Which makes me think he felt slighted by me in some way. Grrr. I had told myself that if he did it again. We were getting rid of him... That's like saying you're going to give up your child because they have emotional problems. I spent a portion of that night crying at the thought of it. The problem is, I know how bad this can get. He ruined a mattress and box springs set as well as the carpet in my/my brothers room. He hates my brother and my mom. All his attacks were in their general direction.. So we took him to the vet and shelled out a hundred dollars to be told he doesn't have an infection, he's overweight and he's probably having emotional difficulties. Apperantly, this is common in cats that at one point in their life were strays. Sigh, of course, was a stray kitten. They found him caught in a trap and when I first saw him he was so afraid he had pressed his entire body against the back of the cage.
I never want to think of him caged again. I promised him a better life. Pet or no pet I keep my promises. So it looks like my cat is getting put on Prozac. I haven't heard how much that will cost me yet but I suppose it's like needing to buy your kids braces. I don't want children. My cats are all I need. So to lose one would hurt me badly. Not to mention, I have no idea how Kiya will react to him being gone.
So that's what the drama has been about lately. I have been fretting so much about my cat. He really is a darling. He's so sweet and affectionate, he's a bit of a scared and timid thing but he'll love you dearly once he gets to know you.
There is also Grim's disability hearing coming up. That of course has got both of us frazzled. I hate the fact that a man/woman who knows nothing about you can determine whether you are disabled or not. I am not going into his illness but he's unable to work. His pain levels would cripple superman. We'll see, I am going to keep my optimism for the both of us.
Knitting related. I am going to switch patterns on the shawl for Jan, my chosen chick to knit for for the March Knit Along For Get Stitchy . I don't really feel like doing a complicated pattern. Not that the one I have is complicated but I just want a standard easy knit. She'll appreciate that more and I think if it has a lot of holes in it she'll snag it a lot. The Poncho is coming along really well. I just did the head section and I am starting on the other side. Yeah for Decreasing!! I can't wait until it's done. I am a little worried about making the hood though. I figure that someone at knitting group can help me figure it out. =)
Tonight I went to a masked ball at the local Industrial/Goth Night. It was awesome! It was my dream to go to a masked anything and it happened. -=does a dance=- You can see some of the pictures here.
The pictures from the ball are in the pictures from life section. I am going to be posting more but I don't feel like editing photos at 5 in the morning.
Well I think that about covers everything. OH! Almost forgot. I have one full skein of Malabringo coming as well as two half skeins. -=does a dance=- Destash for Cash is awesome and the lady I dealt with gave me a great deal on them. The colors are a turqouise green color, a pink and a deep red. I couldn't pass up the opportunity for all that yarn. Even if I don't like pink, I knit for enough people that I should be able to come up with something.
Goodnight all. err.. Good morning rather.
Labels: Update |
| posted by Valerie @ 4:24 AM |
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| About Me |
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Name: Valerie
Home: Troy, New York, United States
About Me: I am 26 years old. I work, go to school, participate in roller derby and knit every chance I get. Oh, I also love hanging out with my boyfriend (Grim) and two cats (Kiya and Sigh).
See my complete profile
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