So here it is, the last day of April and I still have the cold symptoms. BUT ... but I am definitely getting better and that is a wonderful thing. It's been six week since I've been able to run. Six weeks since I got that original chest cold. I predict that I will be 100% back to normal by the weekend. And oh, it is supposed to be a glorious and hot weekend! It rained last night, but it is blue sky and puffy clouds this morning. Pretty spring weather. Yesterday for my lunchtime walk I had to go to the store and that's not such a pretty route. Today I'll go to upper campus and walk in the gardens.
Sleep was my number one priority last night, but before bed I got lots done. I ran the dishes and did a big load of laundry and Tinkie got her two walks. I had soup to heat up so I didn't have to cook. I almost reached for my socks -- I am getting very near to the toe decreases -- but I was interrupted by the phone and then I decided to read in bed and that's what I did. I dropped off super early, but I really needed the sleep. I feel great this morning.
Another thing I was planning on doing last night was downloading another audio book. But I've gotten so hooked on the sports talk pod casts (!) that I don't miss the books. That is until I've listened to all the episodes in a day and then I've got either music or nothing. That's when I miss the books. So tonight I'll do that for sure. Kate Atkinson has a new one. I read (heard) all of her other books - a detective series set in Scotland - and I loved them. This one has a little sci-fi bent to it and sounds pretty interesting.
Noon knitting tomorrow and I think I'll bring my Mariah in and get back into that. I just can't seem to carve out the hours or silence and solitude I need for that at home. I should get a little more proactive about that or I'll never finish it. Actually ... once the sleeves are done it's going to be TV knitting, more or less. So I'll keep that at the front of my brain and perhaps I can get a few rows every day or so.
30 April, 2013
29 April, 2013
Lilacs
I really noticed them this weekend, and riding in to work this morning. There is a downside to my new apartment that I hadn't considered when I first moved in. I no longer have the neighborhoods to wander through when the lilacs are in bloom. For so many years I've always had places I could walk and if not snag some to bring home, at least get a few deep breaths. Not so now. And I don't currently have any friends or acquaintances with them either. That scent really says spring to me.
As usual these days, I had a jam packed weekend. I managed to get a decent sleep Friday but Tink was up way too early Saturday morning for my liking. She needed to go out so of course we went, then I tried to get back to sleep but that wasn't happening. The mall doesn't open until 10 on Saturday and I had a few things I needed to pick up, and also have my manicure touched up, so I did a little tidying and took Tink for another little walk and then headed over to the mall around 9:30. I was under the mistaken impression that DSW opened at 9, but it's only the Bed, Bath and Beyond that opens early. I didn't have to wait long though because I had stopped at the Starbucks for a nice coffe and an 8 grain roll -- which I love because it's full of raisins. Mission accomplished and I had a few minutes to grab a sandwich at home before it was off to Derby to get my hair done. And while I was there I booked myself a fabulous lady day for the Saturday before I take off for the blues festival. I had gotten an email with May specials and noticed they have a salt scrub for $65, which is a bargain and I have been wanting one for so long. I just decided to splurge - the salt scrub AND an hour facial. Oh my, I can hardly wait for May 11th!!
My final item for Saturday was going to be practicing driving a truck. On Sunday I was going to go with my friend when he picked up a new car. But I haven't driven anything that large since my sister had the big SUV when she had her art gallery. So we're talking probably 10 years. I wanted to practice, but that went out the window because an impromptu meeting was set up at a restaurant for us five to talk about what we're bringing to the condo for the blues festival. We met at a Mexican restaurant and the food was just out of this world. Not to mention the drinks which were .... wow ... very strong. The truck driving had to wait.
So Sunday morning before the mall opened I drove that truck around the parking lot before I dared to venture out onto the streets. Actually it wasn't difficult at all. Mostly I was distracted by the big mirror on the driver side, which seemed to block a lot of my view. I got a little scared on the freeway but otherwise it was (mostly) smooth sailing. I did have a bit of a problem backing out of the parking lot at the car dealership. It was a tight spot and I was backing and turning right towards a row of brand new cars. It's nice to know that if I ever had to, I could drive a truck.
Add in a few chores and whoosh -- there went the weekend. I managed to get a few more rows done on the socks. I sure miss my comfy purple chair. That was the perfect knitting spot. But oh well - no room for it now. I have a spot on the couch that isn't bad. It isn't perfect and I think if I could just come up with a way to make it a bit more comfortable perhaps I could do a bit more knitting. Anyway just an inch or so more and I can get the toe decreases started.
It's a little cloudy today but by the end of the week we're supposed to have some great weather. Maybe even as soon as Wednesday. My cold is still hanging in there. I am getting better but oh so slowly. I don't think I'll be able to run this week either. But I can walk and I'm going to have a nice long one at lunchtime, since I managed to forget a couple of key things at the grocery store this weekend. Let's hope the rain is through for the day by then because I forgot my umbrella!
As usual these days, I had a jam packed weekend. I managed to get a decent sleep Friday but Tink was up way too early Saturday morning for my liking. She needed to go out so of course we went, then I tried to get back to sleep but that wasn't happening. The mall doesn't open until 10 on Saturday and I had a few things I needed to pick up, and also have my manicure touched up, so I did a little tidying and took Tink for another little walk and then headed over to the mall around 9:30. I was under the mistaken impression that DSW opened at 9, but it's only the Bed, Bath and Beyond that opens early. I didn't have to wait long though because I had stopped at the Starbucks for a nice coffe and an 8 grain roll -- which I love because it's full of raisins. Mission accomplished and I had a few minutes to grab a sandwich at home before it was off to Derby to get my hair done. And while I was there I booked myself a fabulous lady day for the Saturday before I take off for the blues festival. I had gotten an email with May specials and noticed they have a salt scrub for $65, which is a bargain and I have been wanting one for so long. I just decided to splurge - the salt scrub AND an hour facial. Oh my, I can hardly wait for May 11th!!
My final item for Saturday was going to be practicing driving a truck. On Sunday I was going to go with my friend when he picked up a new car. But I haven't driven anything that large since my sister had the big SUV when she had her art gallery. So we're talking probably 10 years. I wanted to practice, but that went out the window because an impromptu meeting was set up at a restaurant for us five to talk about what we're bringing to the condo for the blues festival. We met at a Mexican restaurant and the food was just out of this world. Not to mention the drinks which were .... wow ... very strong. The truck driving had to wait.
So Sunday morning before the mall opened I drove that truck around the parking lot before I dared to venture out onto the streets. Actually it wasn't difficult at all. Mostly I was distracted by the big mirror on the driver side, which seemed to block a lot of my view. I got a little scared on the freeway but otherwise it was (mostly) smooth sailing. I did have a bit of a problem backing out of the parking lot at the car dealership. It was a tight spot and I was backing and turning right towards a row of brand new cars. It's nice to know that if I ever had to, I could drive a truck.
Add in a few chores and whoosh -- there went the weekend. I managed to get a few more rows done on the socks. I sure miss my comfy purple chair. That was the perfect knitting spot. But oh well - no room for it now. I have a spot on the couch that isn't bad. It isn't perfect and I think if I could just come up with a way to make it a bit more comfortable perhaps I could do a bit more knitting. Anyway just an inch or so more and I can get the toe decreases started.
It's a little cloudy today but by the end of the week we're supposed to have some great weather. Maybe even as soon as Wednesday. My cold is still hanging in there. I am getting better but oh so slowly. I don't think I'll be able to run this week either. But I can walk and I'm going to have a nice long one at lunchtime, since I managed to forget a couple of key things at the grocery store this weekend. Let's hope the rain is through for the day by then because I forgot my umbrella!
26 April, 2013
Silence
Wow ... it is SO quiet here at work. So many people are on vacation and/or out sick. Seriously, I can't hear another human right now. Well, it is early, but still. It's kind of eerie.
I'm very happy it's Friday. I made it through an entire day at work yesterday and it wasn't all that bad. The sun was shining and I got out for a little walk in the sun at lunchtime. It's just so crazy -- I haven't been able to run since March 15!! I was hoping to start back up this week but we know what happened to that idea. Now if I have a good weekend and this cold finally goes away then I can start next week. Slowly, but at least I can suit up and walk and run to get my wind back. I bought new running pants when I was in Oregon a couple weeks ago and I can't wait to get them on. My other ones were getting so ratty. These are nice Nike ones with a clever zipper pocket at the small of the back for my iPhone. That'll be so nice to have the headphones behind me and the cord out of the way.
I was quite tired when I got home last night and I had a perfect relaxing geek evening planned. After walking Tink and doing a few chores I turned the NFL draft on. It wasn't a very exciting one, but surprising. And even though our team doesn't have any first round picks, it's fun nevertheless. At least for an hour or so. I knew I needed to get some good sleep (for a change) so I went to bed early and read and then actually had a pretty decent night. I didn't wake up coughing, which is a bonus these days.
I still haven't booked Tink's eye surgery. She has a benign growth on her lower eyelid and I need to have it removed because it is irritating her eye. I was going to book it right away but then I realized that I'm going to be putting her into a kennel in three weeks when I go to that blues festival, so I must talk to the surgeon to find out how much time I need to consider for her recovery. It's probably better that I put it off until I return.
We've had such gorgeous sunny weather while I've been sick this week and it looks like we have to say goodbye for the weekend. That's okay. There's plenty of spring and summer to come!
I'm very happy it's Friday. I made it through an entire day at work yesterday and it wasn't all that bad. The sun was shining and I got out for a little walk in the sun at lunchtime. It's just so crazy -- I haven't been able to run since March 15!! I was hoping to start back up this week but we know what happened to that idea. Now if I have a good weekend and this cold finally goes away then I can start next week. Slowly, but at least I can suit up and walk and run to get my wind back. I bought new running pants when I was in Oregon a couple weeks ago and I can't wait to get them on. My other ones were getting so ratty. These are nice Nike ones with a clever zipper pocket at the small of the back for my iPhone. That'll be so nice to have the headphones behind me and the cord out of the way.
I was quite tired when I got home last night and I had a perfect relaxing geek evening planned. After walking Tink and doing a few chores I turned the NFL draft on. It wasn't a very exciting one, but surprising. And even though our team doesn't have any first round picks, it's fun nevertheless. At least for an hour or so. I knew I needed to get some good sleep (for a change) so I went to bed early and read and then actually had a pretty decent night. I didn't wake up coughing, which is a bonus these days.
I still haven't booked Tink's eye surgery. She has a benign growth on her lower eyelid and I need to have it removed because it is irritating her eye. I was going to book it right away but then I realized that I'm going to be putting her into a kennel in three weeks when I go to that blues festival, so I must talk to the surgeon to find out how much time I need to consider for her recovery. It's probably better that I put it off until I return.
We've had such gorgeous sunny weather while I've been sick this week and it looks like we have to say goodbye for the weekend. That's okay. There's plenty of spring and summer to come!
25 April, 2013
Round two
The weekend started out so well. Friday night I had a girlfriend over for dinner and it was a 3 hour gab fest. A perfect girlie evening. And the next day was my knitting brunch. Everyone brought something delicious to eat and a project or 2 (or 3) to either rip out or finish. I finally finally finally got the facings knit for my Cloisonne Jacket! yay! Now I need to sew them and re-block the sweater. Yes, I did block the pieces before I sewed it together, but it's been sitting in my basket for two or more years so it needs another go 'round in the wash and re-blocking. Everybody had a nice time though and I want to do it again soon.
So I woke up Sunday with a terrible head cold. I couldn't believe it! AND a sore throat to boot! I had been coughing a bit more since I had finished one of my medications but ignored it. I couldn't ignore this. Headache and body ache all over again! So first thing Monday I called my doctor and they fit me right in. He says it's another entirely different virus. Oh yay me. This one has given me a sinus infection so it's back on antibiotics. It's Thursday and I'm back to work but seriously, I'd rather be in bed.
On a positive note, the weather has been extremely gorgeous. Not that I've been able to take advantage of it. I did have to walk Tink every day so at least I got to be out in it for a while. Mostly I slept Monday and all of Tuesday. Yesterday I worked from home. I can almost do everything on my iPad but not quite. But since my apartment is so compact, it's easy enough to sit up to the desk and get a little work done. Not much walking needed.
And so -- with my head all stuffed up here I sit, trying not to cough all over my nice clean computer screen. I wish I had a futon so I could curl up under my desk for a little nap.
So I woke up Sunday with a terrible head cold. I couldn't believe it! AND a sore throat to boot! I had been coughing a bit more since I had finished one of my medications but ignored it. I couldn't ignore this. Headache and body ache all over again! So first thing Monday I called my doctor and they fit me right in. He says it's another entirely different virus. Oh yay me. This one has given me a sinus infection so it's back on antibiotics. It's Thursday and I'm back to work but seriously, I'd rather be in bed.
On a positive note, the weather has been extremely gorgeous. Not that I've been able to take advantage of it. I did have to walk Tink every day so at least I got to be out in it for a while. Mostly I slept Monday and all of Tuesday. Yesterday I worked from home. I can almost do everything on my iPad but not quite. But since my apartment is so compact, it's easy enough to sit up to the desk and get a little work done. Not much walking needed.
And so -- with my head all stuffed up here I sit, trying not to cough all over my nice clean computer screen. I wish I had a futon so I could curl up under my desk for a little nap.
19 April, 2013
Love/Hate relationship
Generally speaking, I'd say my car-less life is going quite well. But every once in a while .... like yesterday morning ... it can be frustrating. I have an app on my iPhone called "One Bus Away" and it is supposed to let you know if your bus is running on time. Yesterday the app was showing that the bus I was taking to my 9 am appointment in Ballard was running quite late. So I called them, saying I am running late and should we re-schedule, perhaps when I have reserved a ZipCar. The woman said to just come along whenever I could. And as soon as I terminated the call here came the bus, on time! It was nice I got there in time, but I could have done without the fire drill.
My latest infatuation with podcasts is eating up my iPhone battery at quite an alarming clip, however it is fine since I can just plug the phone into my computer here at work and oh I do so love listening to football talk when I'm doing tedious tasks. I found a couple more yesterday - Rich Eisen and Dan Patrick both have their own podcasts. I don't spend the evenings in front of the TV watching ESPN or the NFL Network, so this is perfect.
We are now into the spring rainy weather -- April showers. I haven't run all week since I'm still coughing and I'm supposed to be running indoors anyway. But I have had a few nice walks, besides my normal doggie walks. Today I'll go up to the grocery store at lunchtime so I can get the ingredients for my brunch dish for Saturday. Plus I'm having a girlfriend over for dinner so I need to get something for that as well. I still don't know what I'll make. I am hoping for inspiration at the store.
At noon knitting Wednesday I got a good hour in on the socks and last night another hour. I need to measure because I should be getting pretty close to starting the toe decreases. I am looking forward to finishing up the Cloisonne Jacket tomorrow. I dragged the big bag of sweaters home last night and actually during the day I was wearing the Trellis Shawl since it was pretty cold here in the office. Maybe I won't frog that one after all. I always get compliments on it.
Oh I am SO glad it's Friday. If only it were Friday afternoon and not 8:30 am!!!
My latest infatuation with podcasts is eating up my iPhone battery at quite an alarming clip, however it is fine since I can just plug the phone into my computer here at work and oh I do so love listening to football talk when I'm doing tedious tasks. I found a couple more yesterday - Rich Eisen and Dan Patrick both have their own podcasts. I don't spend the evenings in front of the TV watching ESPN or the NFL Network, so this is perfect.
We are now into the spring rainy weather -- April showers. I haven't run all week since I'm still coughing and I'm supposed to be running indoors anyway. But I have had a few nice walks, besides my normal doggie walks. Today I'll go up to the grocery store at lunchtime so I can get the ingredients for my brunch dish for Saturday. Plus I'm having a girlfriend over for dinner so I need to get something for that as well. I still don't know what I'll make. I am hoping for inspiration at the store.
At noon knitting Wednesday I got a good hour in on the socks and last night another hour. I need to measure because I should be getting pretty close to starting the toe decreases. I am looking forward to finishing up the Cloisonne Jacket tomorrow. I dragged the big bag of sweaters home last night and actually during the day I was wearing the Trellis Shawl since it was pretty cold here in the office. Maybe I won't frog that one after all. I always get compliments on it.
Oh I am SO glad it's Friday. If only it were Friday afternoon and not 8:30 am!!!
17 April, 2013
Sunglasses in the morning
Oh hooray! It's finally light enough in the morning to wear sunglasses. Now I can stare with impunity at all the weirdos on the bus.
Yesterday was a little better. Not so much vacation hang over and I have a big project that keeps me busy. It's a little tedious at this point while I'm making pages and links, so I can indulge myself and listen to some podcasts. I have found sports podcasts and now I can listen to football talk whenever I want to. It's spring practice time for the universities so there is much chatter about that -- some interesting and some nonsense. There are podcasts about sports in general and some about football only. When it's closer to the season then I suppose I'll only listen to the football ones. The thing is, there are only so many hours in the day and I also listen to audiobooks on the bus. But this way, when the current audiobook is done I can listen to sports rather than Pandora or my iTunes. Sometimes music makes me too nostalgic. Or too yearn-y. Is that a word? You know what I mean.
After my chores and Tink walking I actually picked up my knitting and I knit on those socks! I must say it felt pretty good to get my needles back in my hands. I just can't knit when I'm sick, and I've been sick for nearly a month! Now I've got to start back running. On my mini-vacation I bought some new running tights. My doctor doesn't want me running outside this week and I still don't really feel up to it inside OR outside. I'll give myself the rest of this week if I need it, but next Monday whether I feel like it or not, I'm going to get out there and at least pretend. It's going to take a few times to get back into it. I'm sure my legs will be fine but I'll have to work on my wind.
Noon knitting today, but poor Peggy is still out sick. It sounds like she's got something like I had, although hers went to her ears. Ouch. At least she was smarter than I and went to the doctor WAY sooner. Hopefully she'll be able to join us Saturday.
Yesterday was a little better. Not so much vacation hang over and I have a big project that keeps me busy. It's a little tedious at this point while I'm making pages and links, so I can indulge myself and listen to some podcasts. I have found sports podcasts and now I can listen to football talk whenever I want to. It's spring practice time for the universities so there is much chatter about that -- some interesting and some nonsense. There are podcasts about sports in general and some about football only. When it's closer to the season then I suppose I'll only listen to the football ones. The thing is, there are only so many hours in the day and I also listen to audiobooks on the bus. But this way, when the current audiobook is done I can listen to sports rather than Pandora or my iTunes. Sometimes music makes me too nostalgic. Or too yearn-y. Is that a word? You know what I mean.
After my chores and Tink walking I actually picked up my knitting and I knit on those socks! I must say it felt pretty good to get my needles back in my hands. I just can't knit when I'm sick, and I've been sick for nearly a month! Now I've got to start back running. On my mini-vacation I bought some new running tights. My doctor doesn't want me running outside this week and I still don't really feel up to it inside OR outside. I'll give myself the rest of this week if I need it, but next Monday whether I feel like it or not, I'm going to get out there and at least pretend. It's going to take a few times to get back into it. I'm sure my legs will be fine but I'll have to work on my wind.
Noon knitting today, but poor Peggy is still out sick. It sounds like she's got something like I had, although hers went to her ears. Ouch. At least she was smarter than I and went to the doctor WAY sooner. Hopefully she'll be able to join us Saturday.
16 April, 2013
Tax day
I am the type of person who gets her taxes finished and filed as soon as possible. But this year it was a little different -- well, the past few years have been different because I've had to file with someone, but that was a blip. Anyway, because of a few tricky things I didn't feel comfortable doing them myself, so I went to have them done. But because I was sick for so long I kept postponing it. Then when I finally got all my papers to the tax accountant I was missing a document and I had to wait for someone to get back from vacation to get it to me. And finally I got all of the documents to my guy and then I left on vacation. So I had an appointment yesterday after work to get it filed. Talk about last minute. But it was done and I was home by six. With the exception of one load of laundry, I did nothing last night and it was lovely. Tonight for sure I'm going to get going on those socks. I want them done done done!
While I was gone last week there were more than a few outstanding meals to go along with all the gorgeous wine. One of the unfortunate side effects of a few days of decadent dining is nightmares. I mean waking up screaming nightmares. It happened to me two times on this trip. I can't remember what the dreams are about even, but they're scary enough to cause me to scream myself awake. Not fun at all. I slept very well last night though. I didn't even wake up coughing. I think that's the third night in a row that I have not coughed myself awake. Well it's only been a month. It's pretty mild out so I had not only the window but the big slider open last night and I did wake up when a huge delivery truck pulled up in the courtyard to deliver something at 3:30 am. But I went right back to sleep, so that's okay.
I am so looking forward to Saturday. I'm having my knitting buddies over for brunch and finishing or ripping out. Those things are much easier done in company. Maybe I can even finish up my Cloisonne Jacket. That will be my goal. I have plenty of things to undo and recycle the yarn as well. I will remember to bring my big bag of big sweaters back home with me and maybe I can get one or two of them undone. All the yarn is delicious and gorgeous. I just don't wear big sweaters any more.
Work was tough yesterday. It always is after a vacation, even a short one. Hopefully I can buckle down and get a few more things done today. I wasn't a complete bump on a log yesterday. I worked but my heart wasn't in it. I have a walk to the post office planned today. Perhaps I can be running by the end of the week. My doctor did not want me running outside this week. I can use the gym at home after work but it is very difficult to get myself into the exercise state of mind after work. I like doing it either before work or at lunchtime.
While I was gone last week there were more than a few outstanding meals to go along with all the gorgeous wine. One of the unfortunate side effects of a few days of decadent dining is nightmares. I mean waking up screaming nightmares. It happened to me two times on this trip. I can't remember what the dreams are about even, but they're scary enough to cause me to scream myself awake. Not fun at all. I slept very well last night though. I didn't even wake up coughing. I think that's the third night in a row that I have not coughed myself awake. Well it's only been a month. It's pretty mild out so I had not only the window but the big slider open last night and I did wake up when a huge delivery truck pulled up in the courtyard to deliver something at 3:30 am. But I went right back to sleep, so that's okay.
I am so looking forward to Saturday. I'm having my knitting buddies over for brunch and finishing or ripping out. Those things are much easier done in company. Maybe I can even finish up my Cloisonne Jacket. That will be my goal. I have plenty of things to undo and recycle the yarn as well. I will remember to bring my big bag of big sweaters back home with me and maybe I can get one or two of them undone. All the yarn is delicious and gorgeous. I just don't wear big sweaters any more.
Work was tough yesterday. It always is after a vacation, even a short one. Hopefully I can buckle down and get a few more things done today. I wasn't a complete bump on a log yesterday. I worked but my heart wasn't in it. I have a walk to the post office planned today. Perhaps I can be running by the end of the week. My doctor did not want me running outside this week. I can use the gym at home after work but it is very difficult to get myself into the exercise state of mind after work. I like doing it either before work or at lunchtime.
15 April, 2013
There is such a thing as too much wine!
My little 5 day mini-vacation was absolutely perfect! The drive down to the Willamette Valley on Wednesday morning was relatively quick. All of the rush hour traffic was missed, but it was absolutely pouring rain, which made for a few dicey moments. But once down there it was perfect weather. Oh sure, there were a few clouds here and there, but plenty of blue skies and it was just gorgeous.
McMinnville is a cute little, old town. And the Mcmennamin Hotel Oregon is a very old building that has been updated somewhat. I had reserved the best room which was one of the two rooms in the hotel with bathrooms en suite! I hear that the shared bathrooms are nice and clean but ... ick. I have to say that the food there is SO bad and the beer that they serve is their own and it too is pretty much the worst beer I have ever had. I ended up drinking Coors light because that was the only other beer you could get. Our of sheer laziness being in the sun and all relaxed I dared order a personal pizza and it was truly inedible. I should have listened to all the locals. They do know what they're talking about.
The majority of wine tasting was done on Thursday, with just two stops on the way into town on Wednesday. Friday before heading out to the coast there were three I wanted to visit, but my palate was completely fried so after the first one I threw in the towel.
The second part of the mini-vacation was out on the coast in Lincoln City. The hotel room was HUGE - a suite with a full kitchen and two bathrooms and a queen sized Murphy bed in the living room. It was much colder at the ocean but so nice to watch the sea.
Friday night there was a fun blues band at the Roadhouse 101 and Saturday was spent cruising the outlet mall. That's pretty much all you've got in Lincoln City if you're not into the gambling, which I'm not really. My friend Scott and his girlfriend came to spend the night Saturday and we had a ball. That woman -- she's a talker. But it was so wonderful to see Scott again after who knows how many years.
I brought knitting with me but only got so far as to put it on my lap for the ride home. I didn't even open it up! And I was just WAY too exhausted last night to do anything. I was gong to make dinner but instead ate some cheese with a lovely Pinot Noir from Lange. I was surprised when the wine was unpacked that there were only six bottles! I thought for sure I bought more than that. But they're all great bottles and each one will have a prime place at a meal or, like last night, a quiet evening with some nice cheese and that's just fine.
It was great to have Tinkerbell back at the end of the bed. She is always so worn out after I pick her up for a stay at the Doggie Resort. They bathed her and then she rolled in the mud so they had to give her a second bath! She was still a little damp when I picked her up. But very happy to see me.
Five more weeks until the next mini-vacation. Better get my nose to the screen.
McMinnville is a cute little, old town. And the Mcmennamin Hotel Oregon is a very old building that has been updated somewhat. I had reserved the best room which was one of the two rooms in the hotel with bathrooms en suite! I hear that the shared bathrooms are nice and clean but ... ick. I have to say that the food there is SO bad and the beer that they serve is their own and it too is pretty much the worst beer I have ever had. I ended up drinking Coors light because that was the only other beer you could get. Our of sheer laziness being in the sun and all relaxed I dared order a personal pizza and it was truly inedible. I should have listened to all the locals. They do know what they're talking about.
The majority of wine tasting was done on Thursday, with just two stops on the way into town on Wednesday. Friday before heading out to the coast there were three I wanted to visit, but my palate was completely fried so after the first one I threw in the towel.
The second part of the mini-vacation was out on the coast in Lincoln City. The hotel room was HUGE - a suite with a full kitchen and two bathrooms and a queen sized Murphy bed in the living room. It was much colder at the ocean but so nice to watch the sea.
Friday night there was a fun blues band at the Roadhouse 101 and Saturday was spent cruising the outlet mall. That's pretty much all you've got in Lincoln City if you're not into the gambling, which I'm not really. My friend Scott and his girlfriend came to spend the night Saturday and we had a ball. That woman -- she's a talker. But it was so wonderful to see Scott again after who knows how many years.
I brought knitting with me but only got so far as to put it on my lap for the ride home. I didn't even open it up! And I was just WAY too exhausted last night to do anything. I was gong to make dinner but instead ate some cheese with a lovely Pinot Noir from Lange. I was surprised when the wine was unpacked that there were only six bottles! I thought for sure I bought more than that. But they're all great bottles and each one will have a prime place at a meal or, like last night, a quiet evening with some nice cheese and that's just fine.
It was great to have Tinkerbell back at the end of the bed. She is always so worn out after I pick her up for a stay at the Doggie Resort. They bathed her and then she rolled in the mud so they had to give her a second bath! She was still a little damp when I picked her up. But very happy to see me.
Five more weeks until the next mini-vacation. Better get my nose to the screen.
09 April, 2013
Short week
I just have to make it through lunchtime and then I'm gone! On vacation! Woohoo! I have to see my doctor so he can check on my progress, and I got the last appointment I could get, so I'll be here until a little before two, then off to see the doctor, then to get my taxes done. I didn't pack last night because it's only five days and I can do that in a few minutes.
Two weekends ago we got a lovely couple of days with lots of sunshine and warm weather. I was really hoping for that this coming week, but it doesn't look like we'll get it. But on the other hand it is going to be mild and it's not supposed to rain too much. It'll be fine. It's always great to be at the shore, no matter what the weather. And driving around in the hills in the Willamette Valley wine country is also gorgeous no matter when.
At Thornton Place there are still four or five empty storefronts and there are a couple of businesses I can think of that would make the environment all that much closer to perfect. One of them is a pub and there is the perfect spot on the south west end of the complex. A great spot with a place for tables outside even. As I was walking by a couple of weeks ago I looked in to see chalk markings on the floor. At closer inspection you could see things written -- Darts, Bar, Table ..... ah ha! I checked with the office and sure enough, we're getting our pub!! The owners of The Fiddler's Inn and the Latona Pub, both favorite spots of mine, are opening this spot in June! Perfect! I'll be able to take Tink and sit outside to have a beer. There will be someplace closer than the Ram to watch games. Now all we need is a little grocery and a dry cleaners and we'd be set.
I will be taking the socks with me for knitting and riding, although I don't imagine I'm going to get a lot of knitting done. Drinking wine? Oh yeah, there will be plenty of that. Fingers crossed for some sunshine!
Two weekends ago we got a lovely couple of days with lots of sunshine and warm weather. I was really hoping for that this coming week, but it doesn't look like we'll get it. But on the other hand it is going to be mild and it's not supposed to rain too much. It'll be fine. It's always great to be at the shore, no matter what the weather. And driving around in the hills in the Willamette Valley wine country is also gorgeous no matter when.
At Thornton Place there are still four or five empty storefronts and there are a couple of businesses I can think of that would make the environment all that much closer to perfect. One of them is a pub and there is the perfect spot on the south west end of the complex. A great spot with a place for tables outside even. As I was walking by a couple of weeks ago I looked in to see chalk markings on the floor. At closer inspection you could see things written -- Darts, Bar, Table ..... ah ha! I checked with the office and sure enough, we're getting our pub!! The owners of The Fiddler's Inn and the Latona Pub, both favorite spots of mine, are opening this spot in June! Perfect! I'll be able to take Tink and sit outside to have a beer. There will be someplace closer than the Ram to watch games. Now all we need is a little grocery and a dry cleaners and we'd be set.
I will be taking the socks with me for knitting and riding, although I don't imagine I'm going to get a lot of knitting done. Drinking wine? Oh yeah, there will be plenty of that. Fingers crossed for some sunshine!
08 April, 2013
Well enough to rant
It has been a long, long haul but today I feel pretty darned good! I didn't wake up coughing one time last night! That's the first night in weeks that I haven't had to get up to take cough medicine. I am still coughing, but very little and I am rested and in very good spirits today. Finally. I am feeling SO good that I am ready for a rant - I have left over energy. Nice.
So here's the deal -- about a month ago my friend Monika asked me if I wanted to go to the Vogue Knitting Live event with her. Just the marketplace - neither one of us wanted to take any classes. I was all for it, so we got on the web site and purchased our marketplace tickets for $15 by the deadline. Supposedly the cost of the tickets would be going up, thus the deadline. And then what happened? The VERY NEXT DAY the same tickets were advertised for half off! HALF! That is just so annoying. It's not that $15 is a lot of money, but the fact that we were lead to believe the price was going to go up and it was slashed instead.
So we were not very well disposed to this event from the start, I must say. I got up fairly early Saturday, had some breakfast and then went to get my manicure and pedicure. I was tired and feeling just a bit woozy, but I really wanted and needed to get out and start doing some normal things. Monika picked me up in the pouring rain and off we went.
Mind you, we are paying for the privilege of going into a marketplace to buy more stuff. Wouldn't you expect there to be bargains, some freebies? Something to justify the entrance fee? Free espresso. Period. End of story. No yarn snippets. No free patterns. Hand cream samples? Nope. Unbelievable. Just plenty of high end yarn - gorgeous but completely out of the question for a casual purchase. We were both underwhelmed. I did buy some extremely cute buttons. That was my big splurge. I was actually hoping to snag some gorgeous cashmere or silk or something special. Even if it were one skein of lace weight for a nice little shawl or whatever. But it was all just WAY over the top. Oh well, I don't really need another shawl or scarf but I did feel very disappointed in the entire event. I won't be going back.
Except for that disappointment the rest of the weekend was very satisfying. I bought a few items for brighten up my spring wardrobe - it's been a long time since I've had any new clothes. It was true spring weather with plenty of wind and rain, downpours, and then spots of sunshine. I hadn't done laundry or cleaning in weeks (!) --- well, I've been sick! -- so the apartment got a top to bottom cleaning and I treated myself to some good knitting time Sunday once everything was in its place and the soup was on the stove. Yummy chicken soup.
What I didn't get around to this weekend was making the winery tour agenda but I will have time to start that tonight. As I said, I only really have to get Wednesday set and I can work on Thursday later if need me. Just now need to get through today and part of tomorrow and then -- vacation!!!!
So here's the deal -- about a month ago my friend Monika asked me if I wanted to go to the Vogue Knitting Live event with her. Just the marketplace - neither one of us wanted to take any classes. I was all for it, so we got on the web site and purchased our marketplace tickets for $15 by the deadline. Supposedly the cost of the tickets would be going up, thus the deadline. And then what happened? The VERY NEXT DAY the same tickets were advertised for half off! HALF! That is just so annoying. It's not that $15 is a lot of money, but the fact that we were lead to believe the price was going to go up and it was slashed instead.
So we were not very well disposed to this event from the start, I must say. I got up fairly early Saturday, had some breakfast and then went to get my manicure and pedicure. I was tired and feeling just a bit woozy, but I really wanted and needed to get out and start doing some normal things. Monika picked me up in the pouring rain and off we went.
Mind you, we are paying for the privilege of going into a marketplace to buy more stuff. Wouldn't you expect there to be bargains, some freebies? Something to justify the entrance fee? Free espresso. Period. End of story. No yarn snippets. No free patterns. Hand cream samples? Nope. Unbelievable. Just plenty of high end yarn - gorgeous but completely out of the question for a casual purchase. We were both underwhelmed. I did buy some extremely cute buttons. That was my big splurge. I was actually hoping to snag some gorgeous cashmere or silk or something special. Even if it were one skein of lace weight for a nice little shawl or whatever. But it was all just WAY over the top. Oh well, I don't really need another shawl or scarf but I did feel very disappointed in the entire event. I won't be going back.
Except for that disappointment the rest of the weekend was very satisfying. I bought a few items for brighten up my spring wardrobe - it's been a long time since I've had any new clothes. It was true spring weather with plenty of wind and rain, downpours, and then spots of sunshine. I hadn't done laundry or cleaning in weeks (!) --- well, I've been sick! -- so the apartment got a top to bottom cleaning and I treated myself to some good knitting time Sunday once everything was in its place and the soup was on the stove. Yummy chicken soup.
What I didn't get around to this weekend was making the winery tour agenda but I will have time to start that tonight. As I said, I only really have to get Wednesday set and I can work on Thursday later if need me. Just now need to get through today and part of tomorrow and then -- vacation!!!!
05 April, 2013
Slow progress
Progress nevertheless. I made it through another night without an asthma attach (hoorah!) and only woke three times coughing. Each time was quickly handled - a sip of water or a dose of cough medicine - and right back to sleep. I think I got the best, most restful sleep last night in a week. I was asleep crazy early, but after a full day at work I was very tired. The socks continued to taunt me from atop the basket, but truly I didn't have the energy to do anything but lounge and heat up some soup. I have a ticket to Vogue Knitting Live - no classes, just the marketplace - for tomorrow. I'll take it nice and slow.
I've been so caught up in being sick that I haven't even started making my wine tasting route! I've got to get on that. I'm leaving next Wednesday early morning so I need to get a few places set for on the way to McMinnville, and then a second set of places for the full day of tasting on Thursday, and then maybe a third for the trip out to the coast on Friday. Although I am pretty sure nothing will be open and by Friday I most likely won't be wanting to taste wine in the morning.
The weather has turned to the spring blustery storm weather. Yesterday it was pouring rain and in the night I could hear the wind and rain, so it must have been seriously coming down. It's not bad this morning, but still windy. No matter. It will be another week or probably more before I can even consider going out to run. Wow -- this is the third week. At least I haven't had much of an appetite.
I've been so caught up in being sick that I haven't even started making my wine tasting route! I've got to get on that. I'm leaving next Wednesday early morning so I need to get a few places set for on the way to McMinnville, and then a second set of places for the full day of tasting on Thursday, and then maybe a third for the trip out to the coast on Friday. Although I am pretty sure nothing will be open and by Friday I most likely won't be wanting to taste wine in the morning.
The weather has turned to the spring blustery storm weather. Yesterday it was pouring rain and in the night I could hear the wind and rain, so it must have been seriously coming down. It's not bad this morning, but still windy. No matter. It will be another week or probably more before I can even consider going out to run. Wow -- this is the third week. At least I haven't had much of an appetite.
04 April, 2013
Why am I so stubborn?
It took a third horrible night of coughing and asthma attacks to make me finally finally realize that waiting for my annual exam appointment was about the stupidest thing in the world. I just get these things in my head and ... well, it's just stupid. I called my doctor's office right before they broke for lunch yesterday and the nurse said there was a cancellation at 2, so I got my clothes on and headed right over. It turns out that she was wrong, she had been looking at the next day, but they fit me in, thank goodness. After being scolded for not going to the emergency room a few nights ago (!) the doctor set about getting me back on track. I guess he's been seeing quite a few cases of walking pneumonia, so I got a chest x-ray to check on that and in the meantime had a nebulizer treatment, which helped right away. And then I was loaded up with a massive amount of prescriptions. I was tired and having no appetite hadn't eaten all day, but managed to get a cookie down when I picked up my prescriptions so I could take some. And after a quick trip to talk about my taxes - thankfully only a few steps away at the mall - I was in for the evening with some Greek food which tasted pretty good. Even in a few hours I was feeling better. Not perfect but at least I could breathe. I still had to sleep with three pillows to keep me reclining and I did have a couple coughing fits in the night, but no asthma. I'm tired today too, but here at work. Every day now is going to be better and better. I'll take a nice little stroll at lunch to get more cough syrup. It's raining but not cold. I don't mind. No wheezing. I am happy.
I wish I hadn't missed noon knitting but there was nothing for it. I think tonight I am going to feel like knitting! I want to get those socks done. They are taunting me.
Ahhh .... deep breaths! I love it!
I wish I hadn't missed noon knitting but there was nothing for it. I think tonight I am going to feel like knitting! I want to get those socks done. They are taunting me.
Ahhh .... deep breaths! I love it!
02 April, 2013
A little wait for my new computer
It has been weeks and weeks since the departmental IT guy has been telling me that my new computer is ready. Then I was out sick for most of two weeks and he didn't want to install it then. So yesterday I went home and little early and when I came in this morning there was a new computer, monitor (huge) and keyboard. He left me a note with my new password. Only thing is, the password didn't work. It seems he forgot to include the entire thing. Missed an 's'. Crucial omission. But now I'm on and all is dandy. It will take me a few days to get used to the new interface, but I am loving the new keyboard and the massive screen!
I am feeling improved today. I left at lunchtime yesterday and had a nice quiet afternoon and evening except for the 3 or was it four asthma attacks I had to endure. My hairdresser was saying that this whatever it is going around is really bad for people with asthma and that is most definitely true. Asthma is pretty new to me, having only had it for a few years and then just when I exercise. But this cold has certainly exacerbated it. I am sure my doctor will have something better than my current inhaler for these coughing fits. And in the meantime I can make it work. I only have to wait another couple of days.
My knitting mojo has deserted me but I am sure it's because I've just been so darned sick lately. I don't feel like doing anything but laying around reading or maybe watching something on TV or my iPad. I looked at the socks last night, but in the end left them where they were and went to bed to read and play word games. I have noon knitting tomorrow so at least I'll do a few rows on my Mariah, which hasn't seen the light of day for two weeks.
The sun didn't come out until late yesterday and it looks like the same for today. But it is mild and beautiful, but with all the trees and shrubs blooming and turning green. And vacation in only a week!
I am feeling improved today. I left at lunchtime yesterday and had a nice quiet afternoon and evening except for the 3 or was it four asthma attacks I had to endure. My hairdresser was saying that this whatever it is going around is really bad for people with asthma and that is most definitely true. Asthma is pretty new to me, having only had it for a few years and then just when I exercise. But this cold has certainly exacerbated it. I am sure my doctor will have something better than my current inhaler for these coughing fits. And in the meantime I can make it work. I only have to wait another couple of days.
My knitting mojo has deserted me but I am sure it's because I've just been so darned sick lately. I don't feel like doing anything but laying around reading or maybe watching something on TV or my iPad. I looked at the socks last night, but in the end left them where they were and went to bed to read and play word games. I have noon knitting tomorrow so at least I'll do a few rows on my Mariah, which hasn't seen the light of day for two weeks.
The sun didn't come out until late yesterday and it looks like the same for today. But it is mild and beautiful, but with all the trees and shrubs blooming and turning green. And vacation in only a week!
01 April, 2013
A whole week gone
I knew I wasn't feeling all that terrific when I got to work Monday but I had no idea just how bad it would get. That cold came back full force and then some. I went home around 2 o'clock and I was down and out for the entire week! I think the last time I was this sick for so long was five or six years ago! And I'm not out of the woods yet either. I am at work but I seriously doubt I'm going to be here all day. The cough has been driving me crazy. Why does cough syrup taste SO bad?? I must say that the Robitussin has been my savior but good heavens it tastes nasty!
So where did the week go? I slept and walked the dog. Eating wasn't high on my list of priorities, which was handy since I was not feeling much like cooking anyway. Oddly, when I am sick knitting is not something I can do. So yeah ... an entire week of sleeping and coughing and walking the dog and coughing. On Tuesday I had to get myself together for a meeting with my lawyers. I got dressed, did the meeting and came home and went right back to bed. I thought for sure I'd be back Wednesday, but no. And then again Thursday, but I just couldn't get on top of this bug! I have my appointment for my annual exam this week or I would have tried to get in to see my doctor on Friday. Ah well, I can wait a couple more days.
The weather has been absolutely stunning and I tried to get out to enjoy the shirtsleeves weather at least a little bit this weekend. A couple longer strolls with Tink and then long naps. The sun felt so good. What a treat that was.
Ten days until vacation, even though it's a short one. I am looking forward to that.
So where did the week go? I slept and walked the dog. Eating wasn't high on my list of priorities, which was handy since I was not feeling much like cooking anyway. Oddly, when I am sick knitting is not something I can do. So yeah ... an entire week of sleeping and coughing and walking the dog and coughing. On Tuesday I had to get myself together for a meeting with my lawyers. I got dressed, did the meeting and came home and went right back to bed. I thought for sure I'd be back Wednesday, but no. And then again Thursday, but I just couldn't get on top of this bug! I have my appointment for my annual exam this week or I would have tried to get in to see my doctor on Friday. Ah well, I can wait a couple more days.
The weather has been absolutely stunning and I tried to get out to enjoy the shirtsleeves weather at least a little bit this weekend. A couple longer strolls with Tink and then long naps. The sun felt so good. What a treat that was.
Ten days until vacation, even though it's a short one. I am looking forward to that.
25 March, 2013
A little disappointing
I spent a few minutes at the end of my day Friday looking at flights to LAX, which were advertised as super low on Virgin. Ha! I don't know why I get sucked into these types of things because they're never what you expect. Sure sure, there are $99 one way fares into LAX from Seattle IF you want to catch a 7 am plane going down and return on a stop-over flight that gets into Seattle at 1 am Monday morning. Not ideal. Not doable. When I put in the flight days and times I need for a long weekend it takes it right up to normal so no trip to California in my near future. But I've got two nice little mini-vacations in the next two months so all is not bad. All is good.
I did have a nice, laid back weekend for the most part. Early to bed Friday and a nice Saturday - dog walks in the decent weather. The snow didn't return and we're actually having warm weather this week. I guess it was a fluke. Sunday was not so terrific though. I went walking on the UW campus to look at the cherry trees in bloom, and all of the other wonderful gorgeous flowers in bloom and all of a sudden I was wheezing and coughing and could barely breath! I had left my inhaler at home, since I wasn't planning on running. It was definitely no fun getting home and it is very tiring, not being able to breath. I took a few puffs from the inhaler and calmed down but my cough was back in full force. I still had to go to my niece's birthday party so I rallied and had a nice hot shower, which also helped to open up my chest. I had to use that inhaler a couple more times - basically once every 3 to 4 hours, even in the night. Needless to say (but I'll say it anyway) I feel as bad as I did last week! But I'm at work and hoping that I'll be feeling better soon. I already have an appointment for my annual exam next week so I really don't want to try to see my doctor this week as well. So I am hoping that if I keep a low profile, NO RUNNING, and take it easy tonight that I'll be okay tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
No knitting this weekend. I do have a couple of errands tonight so I probably won't be able to do much tonight either, although I would like to get at least a couple rows done on those socks. We'll see.
I did have a nice, laid back weekend for the most part. Early to bed Friday and a nice Saturday - dog walks in the decent weather. The snow didn't return and we're actually having warm weather this week. I guess it was a fluke. Sunday was not so terrific though. I went walking on the UW campus to look at the cherry trees in bloom, and all of the other wonderful gorgeous flowers in bloom and all of a sudden I was wheezing and coughing and could barely breath! I had left my inhaler at home, since I wasn't planning on running. It was definitely no fun getting home and it is very tiring, not being able to breath. I took a few puffs from the inhaler and calmed down but my cough was back in full force. I still had to go to my niece's birthday party so I rallied and had a nice hot shower, which also helped to open up my chest. I had to use that inhaler a couple more times - basically once every 3 to 4 hours, even in the night. Needless to say (but I'll say it anyway) I feel as bad as I did last week! But I'm at work and hoping that I'll be feeling better soon. I already have an appointment for my annual exam next week so I really don't want to try to see my doctor this week as well. So I am hoping that if I keep a low profile, NO RUNNING, and take it easy tonight that I'll be okay tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
No knitting this weekend. I do have a couple of errands tonight so I probably won't be able to do much tonight either, although I would like to get at least a couple rows done on those socks. We'll see.
22 March, 2013
Snow!
Sure enough - it has been getting very cold these last few days and now snow. The outlying areas of course have gotten more. There's nothing to see on the roads or grass here in town but a few flakes are indeed coming down. Crazy business, but that's spring in Seattle. Don't like the weather? Wait a few minutes. It isn't going to impact me either way today. No running in my future this lunchtime. I am much much better than earlier this week, but still too "chesty" to run. I should be back on track next week. And weather be damned! I'll be out there.
I had a very laid back evening last night. I was so tired from my terrible Wednesday night that I didn't even pick up any knitting. I watched some bad TV and played with my iPod in bed. The last time I saw my doctor - gosh I guess that was early August? - anyway, he gave me some non-habit forming sleeping pills that actually work fantastically. They're called Silenor. I took my last one and I had an absolutely perfect night's sleep. I woke up before the alarm and wasn't even mad! I feel great and not drowsy at all. Ahhh ... perfect.
It doesn't matter what the weather is like this weekend. I've got a nice, low key weekend to look forward to. My only social obligation is a birthday party for my niece Sunday night early. I don't know what I'll do with all this free time but I suspect some knitting, some reading and maybe a movie. Plenty of nothing is fine with me for a change. My next little mini-vacation is coming up in 2 1/2 weeks so next week I think I'll start thinking and planning the route for the wine tasting tour. It's been ages since I've been down there and I am really looking forward to it. It would be nice if the weather cooperated, but you know what? I don't care one way or another.
Air fare to LA is super cheap right now, so I'm also trying to find a way to visit with my sister. She's super busy until the end of June and that's a long way off! I'll try to get creative.
I had a very laid back evening last night. I was so tired from my terrible Wednesday night that I didn't even pick up any knitting. I watched some bad TV and played with my iPod in bed. The last time I saw my doctor - gosh I guess that was early August? - anyway, he gave me some non-habit forming sleeping pills that actually work fantastically. They're called Silenor. I took my last one and I had an absolutely perfect night's sleep. I woke up before the alarm and wasn't even mad! I feel great and not drowsy at all. Ahhh ... perfect.
It doesn't matter what the weather is like this weekend. I've got a nice, low key weekend to look forward to. My only social obligation is a birthday party for my niece Sunday night early. I don't know what I'll do with all this free time but I suspect some knitting, some reading and maybe a movie. Plenty of nothing is fine with me for a change. My next little mini-vacation is coming up in 2 1/2 weeks so next week I think I'll start thinking and planning the route for the wine tasting tour. It's been ages since I've been down there and I am really looking forward to it. It would be nice if the weather cooperated, but you know what? I don't care one way or another.
Air fare to LA is super cheap right now, so I'm also trying to find a way to visit with my sister. She's super busy until the end of June and that's a long way off! I'll try to get creative.
21 March, 2013
A splurge!
I don't buy as nearly as much yarn as I used to buy. Partly because I don't have any room to store it! I have a little room on my new skinny shelves in the bedroom (err ... I mean sleeping nook) and they are taken up with the best yarn that I could not bear to part with. One of the packages is 10 skeins of Noro Cash Iroha that has been discontinued for oh so long. But I love that yarn and every once in a while I will see some on a liquidation web site called DBNY. They have become the place for yarn stores going out of business or personal stash (I mean HUGE stash) liquidations. I see it there now and again and always want to buy it but either there aren't enough skeins to be worthwhile or I balk at the price. However, yesterday I found 10 skeins of pink that looked like it was the same color as my other 10 balls, even if the dye lot isn't the same. So I snatched it up! I was originally thinking of using the first 10 balls to make another Hemlock Ring Blanket, but there's not quite enough. Now I have enough and then some! I can be a really big one. I will just have to alternate rows with the different dye lots so it's not noticeable. Well, this is a project that is down the road, especially since warmer weather is coming and I've already got a big project - the Mariah. But if was a very satisfying purchase, all the more so since it's been ages since I've bought any quantity of yarn.
Warmer weather - I am speaking well in the future I am afraid. The cold moved in yesterday on some pretty powerful gusts of wind. I saw cars with snow on them in the park and ride lot this morning. Oh my -- yesterday was the first day of spring and I missed it!! Happy spring! Well even though the trees and bushes are starting their show, it's still winter to me.
The Mariah got some good work done at noon knitting yesterday but nothing in the evening, not even the socks. I was tired and retired early to watch some things on my iPad. But as luck would have it, last night was one of the off nights for my wireless. It's odd. Sometimes it's seamless and I can watch whatever I want and it never stops. Other times it's torture and I just gave up. I read and bit and was asleep by 10, but that didn't last long. Something woke me at 11:30 and I was awake off and on for hours, coughing and stuffed up. I took some Nyquil but I wish I had taken it much earlier. I am groggy today and coughing still. I'll take a nice walk in the cold sunshine at lunch. That should get me good and tired for tonight. And hopefully the cough will be gone for good tomorrow.
Warmer weather - I am speaking well in the future I am afraid. The cold moved in yesterday on some pretty powerful gusts of wind. I saw cars with snow on them in the park and ride lot this morning. Oh my -- yesterday was the first day of spring and I missed it!! Happy spring! Well even though the trees and bushes are starting their show, it's still winter to me.
The Mariah got some good work done at noon knitting yesterday but nothing in the evening, not even the socks. I was tired and retired early to watch some things on my iPad. But as luck would have it, last night was one of the off nights for my wireless. It's odd. Sometimes it's seamless and I can watch whatever I want and it never stops. Other times it's torture and I just gave up. I read and bit and was asleep by 10, but that didn't last long. Something woke me at 11:30 and I was awake off and on for hours, coughing and stuffed up. I took some Nyquil but I wish I had taken it much earlier. I am groggy today and coughing still. I'll take a nice walk in the cold sunshine at lunch. That should get me good and tired for tonight. And hopefully the cough will be gone for good tomorrow.
20 March, 2013
Straight to my chest
Saturday I hosted a surprise birthday party and it was a smashing success. The birthday boy had no idea and was completely and utterly surprised. My apartment Great Room is just the most wonderful party venue. There's plenty of room for people to spread out, two TVs, a pool table and a full kitchen plus lots of comfy furniture and even a fire place. And my own apartment stays nice and clean. Perfect! It wasn't a late one because you can only have the place for four hours, but that was plenty of time. I was all cleaned up and back to my own place a little after 10. I stayed up for a bit - oh, there was left over cake!
The next morning was not too wonderful though. I woke up feeling terrible. I thought it must be a hangover, even though I VERY rarely get one. But I tried to rally. It was a gorgeous day and I had planned on meeting friends at the Ballard Market. I didn't feel any better, even after a shower and a stroll through the market so I thought a beer might do the trick. Not. I couldn't even finish it. I did some shopping and then headed back home. Tinkie needed a walk so I took Monika on a tour of the creek area and as we were strolling I realized that I felt like a cold was coming on. Ah ha! I wasn't hung over, I was sick! And it was downhill from there.
Thankfully I had gotten a nice loaf of bread and gone shopping on Saturday so I was okay to just hunker down, which is what I did. Sunday night wasn't so bad but Monday was awful! I slept 90% of the day. The cold went straight to my chest and I was coughing and very uncomfortable. Of course this happens when I have tons of things that need to be done at work. It couldn't have happened ... oh, I don't know maybe the last three weeks? *sigh* Anyway I'm here today and feeling better. The cough is controlled. I'm tired but what else is new?
I don't suppose I will be running at all this week. It is pouring rain but I can't breath anyway so it's not an issue. Noon knitting is on for this lunchtime anyway. I knew I was feeling better yesterday late afternoon because I wanted to knit and I did a couple rows on the Mariah. Pictures soon.
The next morning was not too wonderful though. I woke up feeling terrible. I thought it must be a hangover, even though I VERY rarely get one. But I tried to rally. It was a gorgeous day and I had planned on meeting friends at the Ballard Market. I didn't feel any better, even after a shower and a stroll through the market so I thought a beer might do the trick. Not. I couldn't even finish it. I did some shopping and then headed back home. Tinkie needed a walk so I took Monika on a tour of the creek area and as we were strolling I realized that I felt like a cold was coming on. Ah ha! I wasn't hung over, I was sick! And it was downhill from there.
Thankfully I had gotten a nice loaf of bread and gone shopping on Saturday so I was okay to just hunker down, which is what I did. Sunday night wasn't so bad but Monday was awful! I slept 90% of the day. The cold went straight to my chest and I was coughing and very uncomfortable. Of course this happens when I have tons of things that need to be done at work. It couldn't have happened ... oh, I don't know maybe the last three weeks? *sigh* Anyway I'm here today and feeling better. The cough is controlled. I'm tired but what else is new?
I don't suppose I will be running at all this week. It is pouring rain but I can't breath anyway so it's not an issue. Noon knitting is on for this lunchtime anyway. I knew I was feeling better yesterday late afternoon because I wanted to knit and I did a couple rows on the Mariah. Pictures soon.
15 March, 2013
Another banana check
I was feeling wild yesterday, so I switched up my breakfast and instead of having oatmeal and a banana I had oatmeal and berries. And guess what? I had a tough time of it on my run. Yes, it was the uphill one, but still -- it was tougher than it should have been and that is because of the banana. Today it's back to tried and true and hopefully I'll have a little easier time of it! Of course, when I'm counting calories my energy isn't what it is ideally. I eat the same thing for breakfast every morning, but I don't usually come to work with an empty tank. I definitely need that little bit of extra energy the banana affords.
The socks got some quality time last night and the Mariah languished in the corner. I was hoping to be able to carve out some time this weekend but right now it doesn't look likely. Tomorrow I've got all sorts of errands in the morning, then picking up the last minute party items in the afternoon (cake, balloons). Then I'm going to have to get ready and maybe I will have an hour if I try. Sunday will be recuperating from the party and then I'd like to go to the Ballard Market, if it's not pouring rain. And bam! That's the weekend. Even an hour would be nice. I should make it a priority, yeah?
Still feeling wildly optimistic and happy. It beats the heck out of NOT feeling happy, doesn't it?
The socks got some quality time last night and the Mariah languished in the corner. I was hoping to be able to carve out some time this weekend but right now it doesn't look likely. Tomorrow I've got all sorts of errands in the morning, then picking up the last minute party items in the afternoon (cake, balloons). Then I'm going to have to get ready and maybe I will have an hour if I try. Sunday will be recuperating from the party and then I'd like to go to the Ballard Market, if it's not pouring rain. And bam! That's the weekend. Even an hour would be nice. I should make it a priority, yeah?
Still feeling wildly optimistic and happy. It beats the heck out of NOT feeling happy, doesn't it?
14 March, 2013
Just once in a while
For no apparent reason I woke up today feeling awesome and brimming with optimism. Happy, one might say. Happy-go-lucky. Spring is SO close, and the weather is mild. I get to run today and it's not raining or blowing. I am getting a new computer at work today - finally! This one is excruciatingly slow at times. The only thing that could make this day better is being Friday instead of Thursday. Oh well.
I did some good work on my Mariah at noon knitting yesterday. I am just so excited about this project! I sure hope I don't get bogged down and not finish it. I know -- just do it, right? But how many projects have we all started, all gung ho, and then had it ripen at the bottom of a basket for years, just needing one last button band (Cloisonne Jacket) or sewing together or whatever? I think if I can do the body and fronts together that may help my cause. Then the only stumbling block I can see is getting the zipper sewn in, since I don't have a sewing machine now. But that is weeks and weeks away. In the meantime I'll just concentrate on finishing the sleeves, yes?
My evening was eaten up by phone calls and doggie walks and dinner. I got a few rows of the sock foot done, but frankly I was very tired from the bad night I had Tuesday so I retired early and read, then had a great sleep. Except for the part when I woke up with a bad headache (I know -- again??). But I drank down a couple of fizzy tablets and conked right out and woke up feeling -- well, awesome [see above].
Fingers crossed the wind stays calm. I'll have a good run today and I am already looking forward to it!
I did some good work on my Mariah at noon knitting yesterday. I am just so excited about this project! I sure hope I don't get bogged down and not finish it. I know -- just do it, right? But how many projects have we all started, all gung ho, and then had it ripen at the bottom of a basket for years, just needing one last button band (Cloisonne Jacket) or sewing together or whatever? I think if I can do the body and fronts together that may help my cause. Then the only stumbling block I can see is getting the zipper sewn in, since I don't have a sewing machine now. But that is weeks and weeks away. In the meantime I'll just concentrate on finishing the sleeves, yes?
My evening was eaten up by phone calls and doggie walks and dinner. I got a few rows of the sock foot done, but frankly I was very tired from the bad night I had Tuesday so I retired early and read, then had a great sleep. Except for the part when I woke up with a bad headache (I know -- again??). But I drank down a couple of fizzy tablets and conked right out and woke up feeling -- well, awesome [see above].
Fingers crossed the wind stays calm. I'll have a good run today and I am already looking forward to it!
13 March, 2013
Against the wind
I had a decent run on Monday and was very much looking forward to my run yesterday. It was not an easy one. It was quite breezy and I've changed my route because of the construction that causes a detour on my regular route. My second choice route is my older route that goes down past the stadium to 25th, then back up. And while it's only a 5% grade it's not flat and when the wind if blowing in your face, it's not fun either! I did okay but I'm grateful for the day off today.
I have finished picking up all of the gusset stitches on the Bamboo socks and now am just working on the foot portion. Maybe I can finish them up this weekend. Nope - that's to ambitious. I'll shoot for next week. And in the meantime I brought my Mariah sleeves in for noon knitting. I haven't touched them since Saturday so I'm looking forward to a few rows at noon. I should measure too so I can be ready for six inches and the increases. I was going to snap a picture but there's really not much to show yet. I'll wait for another 10 rows and then shoot one.
I had a nice quiet evening last night and went to bed to read. I've been reading a book rather than reading off of my iPad and it's a nice change. Plus I have heard - I don't quite believe it yet - but I've heard that the blue light from one's iPad or iPhone causes sleeplessness. In fact I get just as drowsy when I read on my device as I do from paper and it didn't seem to make any difference last night. I was sleepless! I read and read until my eyes wouldn't stay open and then tried to sleep. No go. Turned the light on and read some more around midnight, but I was still awake at 1 and got up again at 2:30. I don't feel too bad this morning, thankfully. I sure hope I get a good night tonight.
My knitting friends reminded me last week that I hadn't yet set a date for our April knitting party - either ripping out a project or doing finishing work. That's my errand when I get home tonight. I'll stop by the office and find out if there's a Saturday in April we can use the Great Room. I will shoot for the 3rd or 4th Saturday. Maybe I can get the Cloisonne Jacket finished? That would be awesome!
I have finished picking up all of the gusset stitches on the Bamboo socks and now am just working on the foot portion. Maybe I can finish them up this weekend. Nope - that's to ambitious. I'll shoot for next week. And in the meantime I brought my Mariah sleeves in for noon knitting. I haven't touched them since Saturday so I'm looking forward to a few rows at noon. I should measure too so I can be ready for six inches and the increases. I was going to snap a picture but there's really not much to show yet. I'll wait for another 10 rows and then shoot one.
I had a nice quiet evening last night and went to bed to read. I've been reading a book rather than reading off of my iPad and it's a nice change. Plus I have heard - I don't quite believe it yet - but I've heard that the blue light from one's iPad or iPhone causes sleeplessness. In fact I get just as drowsy when I read on my device as I do from paper and it didn't seem to make any difference last night. I was sleepless! I read and read until my eyes wouldn't stay open and then tried to sleep. No go. Turned the light on and read some more around midnight, but I was still awake at 1 and got up again at 2:30. I don't feel too bad this morning, thankfully. I sure hope I get a good night tonight.
My knitting friends reminded me last week that I hadn't yet set a date for our April knitting party - either ripping out a project or doing finishing work. That's my errand when I get home tonight. I'll stop by the office and find out if there's a Saturday in April we can use the Great Room. I will shoot for the 3rd or 4th Saturday. Maybe I can get the Cloisonne Jacket finished? That would be awesome!
11 March, 2013
Bye bye headache
Holy cow! It took long enough. That headache dogged me all Friday. I finally left work around 11 because I was feeling sick from it. I went home and took a couple of fizzy tablets and stretched out on the couch. I think I fell asleep even. Around 7 or so it finally disappeared. and, knock on wood, hasn't been back since. Most likely it was the pressure change that caused it. We had another lovely clear day on Saturday but it didn't come back and now we're back to our regular clouds and rain and I'm feeling perfectly fine.
After it left I did manage to get some good work done on the Mariah sleeves. I am two rows away from completing the first cable section. Next I do rows 13 through 50-something three times and at the same time, when I have done 6 inches of the sleeves, start the increases. That will mean three separate counters to keep track of at the same time. It's a nightmare and one must have their wits about them all the time. It is going to be quite nice. The Fez, wool and camel blend, is lovely to work with although tends to be a bit splitty.
The sun Saturday was such a treat and it was even kind of warm outside! Regular Saturday errands ate up much of the day, and Tink got some nice walks. The Mariah is not TV knitting and I wanted to watch a movie Saturday night, so I switched over to the Bamboo socks. I managed to finish the heel, turn it, pick up the gusset stitches and get a good bit of the gusset done over Saturday and Sunday. Tonight I should be able to finish up the gusset and then all that's left is the foot! Perfect TV knitting. (Boy I miss football!)
Sunday I got the very last of my pictures hung and a couple more things taken up to the storage unit. What a relief! I do need to get one last thing. I need a tall narrow mirror to use as a full length mirror. The others that I have hung don't show my entire body and I really miss that. You need to be able to see top to toe. I was hanging back from buying one because I thought my white mirror would be able to do the trick, but it doesn't. No matter. I can get one this coming weekend and be done with it!
I did find out that weekend are definitely going to be challenging during these warmer months. Saturday I guess a new film opened up and there was a late showing, therefore there were people leaving the theatre later than normal PLUS a whole gang of them milling around waiting for the previous showing to be through so they could go into the theatre. They were very very noisy. I'll need fans just to blank out the noise. Otherwise, it's perfectly quiet. Small price to pay.
After it left I did manage to get some good work done on the Mariah sleeves. I am two rows away from completing the first cable section. Next I do rows 13 through 50-something three times and at the same time, when I have done 6 inches of the sleeves, start the increases. That will mean three separate counters to keep track of at the same time. It's a nightmare and one must have their wits about them all the time. It is going to be quite nice. The Fez, wool and camel blend, is lovely to work with although tends to be a bit splitty.
The sun Saturday was such a treat and it was even kind of warm outside! Regular Saturday errands ate up much of the day, and Tink got some nice walks. The Mariah is not TV knitting and I wanted to watch a movie Saturday night, so I switched over to the Bamboo socks. I managed to finish the heel, turn it, pick up the gusset stitches and get a good bit of the gusset done over Saturday and Sunday. Tonight I should be able to finish up the gusset and then all that's left is the foot! Perfect TV knitting. (Boy I miss football!)
Sunday I got the very last of my pictures hung and a couple more things taken up to the storage unit. What a relief! I do need to get one last thing. I need a tall narrow mirror to use as a full length mirror. The others that I have hung don't show my entire body and I really miss that. You need to be able to see top to toe. I was hanging back from buying one because I thought my white mirror would be able to do the trick, but it doesn't. No matter. I can get one this coming weekend and be done with it!
I did find out that weekend are definitely going to be challenging during these warmer months. Saturday I guess a new film opened up and there was a late showing, therefore there were people leaving the theatre later than normal PLUS a whole gang of them milling around waiting for the previous showing to be through so they could go into the theatre. They were very very noisy. I'll need fans just to blank out the noise. Otherwise, it's perfectly quiet. Small price to pay.
08 March, 2013
Ready to spring?
It does seem crazy early but tomorrow night we turn our clocks forward. I think we are three weeks earlier than Europe. When did this change? It used to happen at the same time, or within a week anyway. Whatever ... I am just glad it's here now. And in another month or so I'll be able to comfortably sit outside at the fountain or the fire pit. That's going to be so nice.
Knitting was on the back burner last night because McG stopped by for a visit on his way to a jam session in Snohomish. We had dinner and a few laughs and then he was on his way. Tinkie got a nice walk - it was nice and not raining - and then I settled in to do a little knitting before bed. I thought better of trying to work on the complicated cables and instead started the heel flap on the Bamboo Socks. I'd like to get those out of the way soon so I can concentrate on the Mariah, although it's not going to get to the state of TV knitting until the sleeves are on their holders. The body only has cabling on the ribbing. Otherwise it's just stockinette and keeping track of increases and decreases, which is TV knitting in my book.
I'm hoping for a relatively quiet weekend, especially with the big one I have coming up next week when I'm hosting a surprise birthday party in my Great Room. I've got to get that cake ordered Monday, and I'll have to get decorations and stuff this weekend. But other than that, hopefully I can carve out some quiet time to knit and, if the weather permits, have some nice long walks. It looks like we're going to be getting rain this weekend.
I have had a headache for 24 hours. I wish I had remembered to grab some of those fizzy tablets I got in London last time. They seem to be the only thing that works on these sinus headaches. I couldn't even run yesterday it was that bad. Well, if it doesn't go away soon I'm going to throw in the towel and go home. I'd rather have it go away though.
Knitting was on the back burner last night because McG stopped by for a visit on his way to a jam session in Snohomish. We had dinner and a few laughs and then he was on his way. Tinkie got a nice walk - it was nice and not raining - and then I settled in to do a little knitting before bed. I thought better of trying to work on the complicated cables and instead started the heel flap on the Bamboo Socks. I'd like to get those out of the way soon so I can concentrate on the Mariah, although it's not going to get to the state of TV knitting until the sleeves are on their holders. The body only has cabling on the ribbing. Otherwise it's just stockinette and keeping track of increases and decreases, which is TV knitting in my book.
I'm hoping for a relatively quiet weekend, especially with the big one I have coming up next week when I'm hosting a surprise birthday party in my Great Room. I've got to get that cake ordered Monday, and I'll have to get decorations and stuff this weekend. But other than that, hopefully I can carve out some quiet time to knit and, if the weather permits, have some nice long walks. It looks like we're going to be getting rain this weekend.
I have had a headache for 24 hours. I wish I had remembered to grab some of those fizzy tablets I got in London last time. They seem to be the only thing that works on these sinus headaches. I couldn't even run yesterday it was that bad. Well, if it doesn't go away soon I'm going to throw in the towel and go home. I'd rather have it go away though.
07 March, 2013
A clean start
I brought my Mariah sleeves to noon knitting yesterday. Peggy had fixed the twisted stitches but after taking another look we all realized that the problem ran a little deeper. As in four rows down deeper. Monika spent nearly the full 60 minutes trying to fix it and she came pretty close but at the end of the hour we all decided that I must take out those four rows and start fresh. So when I got home I sat down and, using a second needle, tinked back four rows and re-knit them and then finally put it back on the circular needle with the other sleeve. I am actually very happy that I took the time to do that. They're now both perfect. I suspect that if the mistake had been further up the sleeve and not really noticeable unless closely inspected that I would have let it go. But as it was, it was at the very start of the intricate and beautiful Celtic Knot pattern on the sleeve and it would have been just too obvious. Now I am happy. I don't think I'll get to touch it tonight since my friend McG is picking me up from work. But hopefully I can carve out some quiet time tomorrow and through the weekend to make some progress. The sleeves are the hardest part of this project and I always do the sleeves first, so after they are done it will be fast work to finish it up.
It was quiet last night, mostly because it was pouring rain. I did get a good sleep finally. I wanted to read but because of the rotten night I had Tuesday I just dropped right off. And for that I am thankful. Maybe I'll have a strong run today? Fingers crossed. That beautiful sunshine we had Monday has been gone since. At least it's mild. I am sure hoping it holds off and doesn't start pouring. As it is, it's just misting and I don't mind that. And now I've got this new hat - although it's autographed and I don't think I want to take it out in the rain! I have my old one here. That's what I'll use if it's raining and the new one if it's just misting.
It was quiet last night, mostly because it was pouring rain. I did get a good sleep finally. I wanted to read but because of the rotten night I had Tuesday I just dropped right off. And for that I am thankful. Maybe I'll have a strong run today? Fingers crossed. That beautiful sunshine we had Monday has been gone since. At least it's mild. I am sure hoping it holds off and doesn't start pouring. As it is, it's just misting and I don't mind that. And now I've got this new hat - although it's autographed and I don't think I want to take it out in the rain! I have my old one here. That's what I'll use if it's raining and the new one if it's just misting.
06 March, 2013
Rescued!
I brought my Mariah in yesterday to have my friend Peggy take a look and see if she could untwist those stitches for me. Ah ... piece of cake. She just knew exactly what to do and tried and tried to explain it to me. I understand conceptually but I still don't think I could actually do it. I was going to post a picture but I realize I don't have a good spot to snap a picture here in my office. I'll try to find a place tonight at home. Anyway, I was thrilled she could fix it and couldn't get home fast enough to get on with it. I finished that row and did two more rows. It's slow going right now because I don't know the cable symbols by heart yet. Every designer has their own way of indicating cables on their charts. Wouldn't it be nice to have a universal language for that? I'm surprise there aren't universal symbols for all the knit stitches. I prefer written out directions rather than charts anyway. It makes more sense to me that way. But I seem to be in the minority.
It never did rain yesterday, although it sprinkled just a bit in the late afternoon. I had another decent run. Not speedy, but solid. Today is a day off for noon knitting. The rest of the week is supposed to be nice so maybe I'll have a nice run in the sun tomorrow!
Well, I have my April vacation all planned and now am just counting the weeks - 5 more to go. After that I have another short vacation in May already! It's a blues festival in eastern Washington. I've never been to it - it's a small one. But some friends rent a condo every year and it sounds like it's going to be a blast! So that's on the calendar as well. Now for June - I might be going to Luxembourg for a week. It's still pie in the sky at this point. I have a few things to handle before I can commit to that, but I haven't been to Europe in the summer in ages and ages! It would be fun. And oh so different from my usual cold weather jaunts over there. Fifty-fifty right now, I'd say.
I had insomnia last night. The first in a long, long time. I have gone old school - I am actually reading a book NOT on my iPad. I brought a couple home from Christmas at my sister's. Anyway, I started one last week and have been reading myself to sleep. Last night I read until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer, shut off the light and ....... all of a sudden I was wide awake! This went on, with breaks for reading and water and strolling around the apartment and Nyquil, until I must have dropped off around 1 am. How do I feel this morning? ugh
It never did rain yesterday, although it sprinkled just a bit in the late afternoon. I had another decent run. Not speedy, but solid. Today is a day off for noon knitting. The rest of the week is supposed to be nice so maybe I'll have a nice run in the sun tomorrow!
Well, I have my April vacation all planned and now am just counting the weeks - 5 more to go. After that I have another short vacation in May already! It's a blues festival in eastern Washington. I've never been to it - it's a small one. But some friends rent a condo every year and it sounds like it's going to be a blast! So that's on the calendar as well. Now for June - I might be going to Luxembourg for a week. It's still pie in the sky at this point. I have a few things to handle before I can commit to that, but I haven't been to Europe in the summer in ages and ages! It would be fun. And oh so different from my usual cold weather jaunts over there. Fifty-fifty right now, I'd say.
I had insomnia last night. The first in a long, long time. I have gone old school - I am actually reading a book NOT on my iPad. I brought a couple home from Christmas at my sister's. Anyway, I started one last week and have been reading myself to sleep. Last night I read until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer, shut off the light and ....... all of a sudden I was wide awake! This went on, with breaks for reading and water and strolling around the apartment and Nyquil, until I must have dropped off around 1 am. How do I feel this morning? ugh
05 March, 2013
A day of sunshine
Yesterday was just absolutely wonderful! A nice sunny day and everyone smiling. It wasn't warm but it wasn't freezing cold either. Crazy Seattle - as soon as the sun appears people strip down like it's the tropics. We're back to the clouds today but we have more sunny days coming this week. And then Saturday we turn the clocks. I don't mind that it'll be a bit darker in the morning. I am like a vampire when it comes to light in the morning. Ick. That's why I love hotels with blackout blinds. Perfect.
I had a nice solid run yesterday. Still don't have a race in the works but that's okay. When I'm counting calories I get a bit slower than normal so sometimes it's just a victory to finish my 30 minutes. I might consider doing the May race at Volunteer Park. It's a Cinco de Mayo themed race and I believe there will be a bunch of taco trucks at the end of the race. Although it's like the new crazy of having a beer garden at these 5K races -- who feels like drinking beer at 10 in the morning after running for 30+ minutes? Would I really feel like eating a taco in the morning? Probably not. But it could be fun all the same. Costumes are encouraged.
Maybe it was the sunshine yesterday, but I did indeed feel energized and took care of a few things that had been marinating -- made doctor appointments, balanced the check book, etc. I wanted to work on my Mariah last night and took another look at those four stitches when I got home, but I still couldn't figure out how to fix them so I brought it with me and Peggy promised to take a look. She's going to take one look at it and know exactly what to do. I am sure I learned a long time ago how to fix this particular little glitch but I can't remember and I don't want to mess things up and have to start over. It is nearly impossible (for me anyway) to rip back cable work. A bunch of plain stockinette -- no problem. But even if it's ribbed it's a challenge. And then there are people like Peggy and Monika who can look at the work and just know how to read it and how to rip back successfully. It's a gift that I don't possess.
I had a nice solid run yesterday. Still don't have a race in the works but that's okay. When I'm counting calories I get a bit slower than normal so sometimes it's just a victory to finish my 30 minutes. I might consider doing the May race at Volunteer Park. It's a Cinco de Mayo themed race and I believe there will be a bunch of taco trucks at the end of the race. Although it's like the new crazy of having a beer garden at these 5K races -- who feels like drinking beer at 10 in the morning after running for 30+ minutes? Would I really feel like eating a taco in the morning? Probably not. But it could be fun all the same. Costumes are encouraged.
Maybe it was the sunshine yesterday, but I did indeed feel energized and took care of a few things that had been marinating -- made doctor appointments, balanced the check book, etc. I wanted to work on my Mariah last night and took another look at those four stitches when I got home, but I still couldn't figure out how to fix them so I brought it with me and Peggy promised to take a look. She's going to take one look at it and know exactly what to do. I am sure I learned a long time ago how to fix this particular little glitch but I can't remember and I don't want to mess things up and have to start over. It is nearly impossible (for me anyway) to rip back cable work. A bunch of plain stockinette -- no problem. But even if it's ribbed it's a challenge. And then there are people like Peggy and Monika who can look at the work and just know how to read it and how to rip back successfully. It's a gift that I don't possess.
04 March, 2013
Almost perfect
Well it has taken some time. I moved in December 15 and this Sunday I finally felt like I had everything just how I want it, with the exception of a few pictures that I need help hanging. That I can get next weekend. The storage unit was a key piece, along with getting rid of the old wooden wall units and large dresser. Saturday was busy with running around doing errands and getting my hair done. But Sunday I dedicated to finishing up moving a few more things to the storage closet, rearranging things, and I am pretty darned happy with the results. I'd say I'm at 99%. When the final pictures get hung I will be most happy.
It was a glorious and sunny day Sunday. Tink let me sleep in, partly because I walked her late on Saturday. After a terrible night Friday, due to another late night drunken session out in the courtyard by rowdy tenants, I was ready to sleep Saturday and it was great! We walked over to the Starbucks at the mall, which I didn't know was open before the mall until I thought to check. It opens at 8:30 and that's early enough for me on a Sunday. After a nice leisurely walk and breakfast I dug in to my chores. I was all done, even giving Tink another walk in the sunshine, before 1 o'clock. Then I sat down and got to work starting the Mariah. This is a difficult pattern. In the sleeves at one point you are working from two different charts AND keeping track of increase and decrease rows for the raglan! I got the cuffs done and started in on the Celtic knot cable pattern which is the central panel on each of the sleeves. The background is reverse stockinette and I found that I had made a mistake in the second setup row, knitting when I should have purled ... or purling when I should have knit. It's only 4 or five stitches but they are down a row and I don't know how to reverse engineer that mistake. I know someone who does, thankfully. So I put it away before I could do any more damage and spent the rest of the evening working on the Bamboo Socks. I'll bring the sleeves in tomorrow and see if my friend can fix it for me. I don't relish taking them out and starting over. That's definitely not my favorite thing.
It is cold and clear today and I must run. I only ran once last week so I've got to get back into it. Plus I need to find a race to shoot for since I am missing St. Paddy's Day Dash. I looked Friday but nothing really caught my eye. Something could turn up.
It was a glorious and sunny day Sunday. Tink let me sleep in, partly because I walked her late on Saturday. After a terrible night Friday, due to another late night drunken session out in the courtyard by rowdy tenants, I was ready to sleep Saturday and it was great! We walked over to the Starbucks at the mall, which I didn't know was open before the mall until I thought to check. It opens at 8:30 and that's early enough for me on a Sunday. After a nice leisurely walk and breakfast I dug in to my chores. I was all done, even giving Tink another walk in the sunshine, before 1 o'clock. Then I sat down and got to work starting the Mariah. This is a difficult pattern. In the sleeves at one point you are working from two different charts AND keeping track of increase and decrease rows for the raglan! I got the cuffs done and started in on the Celtic knot cable pattern which is the central panel on each of the sleeves. The background is reverse stockinette and I found that I had made a mistake in the second setup row, knitting when I should have purled ... or purling when I should have knit. It's only 4 or five stitches but they are down a row and I don't know how to reverse engineer that mistake. I know someone who does, thankfully. So I put it away before I could do any more damage and spent the rest of the evening working on the Bamboo Socks. I'll bring the sleeves in tomorrow and see if my friend can fix it for me. I don't relish taking them out and starting over. That's definitely not my favorite thing.
It is cold and clear today and I must run. I only ran once last week so I've got to get back into it. Plus I need to find a race to shoot for since I am missing St. Paddy's Day Dash. I looked Friday but nothing really caught my eye. Something could turn up.
01 March, 2013
The best thing about March ..
No ... it's not St. Patrick's Day! Although ...... no. It's only ten more days until we get to turn the clock's forward!! Hoorah! Spring is on its way for sure. One can see the buds on the shrubs and things like that, but it's the light that says it for me. I have definitely noticed it being much lighter both morning and evening but I like it when it's lighter in the evening. I tend to check out much too early when it's dark outside.
After finally getting my last pieces of old furniture out and the new and improved pieces in I found that there is still one area that drives me crazy and that's the closet. Yes closet - singular - since there is only one closet in my apartment. It's large - it's 10 feet long and regular depth - but it's not enough. There's no way to switch out seasonal wardrobes for one thing. And I have to wrestle my cleaning things in and out, which is just wrong. So I asked about a small storage unit on Wednesday. I thought the price was a bit steep so I went online yesterday to check out the other storage places nearby and found that the one at the apartment complex is in fact a deal. So when I got home last night and got Tink walked I signed up for a storage unit and began shifting a few things down there. I got all of the heavy boxes using their handy cart. Next I am going to take my rolling clothing rack and load it up with cold weather things - most of them anyway since winter seems to have skipped us this year - and then I will have a useful and handy closet. I am very excited about this.
That was basically my entire evening. By the time I got done wrestling those loads upstairs to the storage closet I was more than ready for a nice shower. I made some lovely pasta for dinner and Tink got another little walk and then it was time to go to bed to read. I had a nice sleep, especially compared to Wednesday night. Tink slept the entire night quietly.
I would like to start my new project - the Mariah - this weekend. I have decided that Sunday shall be a big chore day. I can finally finally FINALLY get everything set up the way I want it this weekend! My pictures will all be up. I'll do a nice tidy up job and the new project will be my carrot. I suspect the weather is going to be crappy all weekend. It's March coming in like a lion. So it will be a perfect weekend for chores. I was realizing last weekend how much I miss football. It was a way to make me relax on the weekend. Now it's just go go go and I come into work on Monday craving a rest. It'll be here soon enough and in the meantime there's spring and summer to look forward to. And let's just make it through March.
After finally getting my last pieces of old furniture out and the new and improved pieces in I found that there is still one area that drives me crazy and that's the closet. Yes closet - singular - since there is only one closet in my apartment. It's large - it's 10 feet long and regular depth - but it's not enough. There's no way to switch out seasonal wardrobes for one thing. And I have to wrestle my cleaning things in and out, which is just wrong. So I asked about a small storage unit on Wednesday. I thought the price was a bit steep so I went online yesterday to check out the other storage places nearby and found that the one at the apartment complex is in fact a deal. So when I got home last night and got Tink walked I signed up for a storage unit and began shifting a few things down there. I got all of the heavy boxes using their handy cart. Next I am going to take my rolling clothing rack and load it up with cold weather things - most of them anyway since winter seems to have skipped us this year - and then I will have a useful and handy closet. I am very excited about this.
That was basically my entire evening. By the time I got done wrestling those loads upstairs to the storage closet I was more than ready for a nice shower. I made some lovely pasta for dinner and Tink got another little walk and then it was time to go to bed to read. I had a nice sleep, especially compared to Wednesday night. Tink slept the entire night quietly.
I would like to start my new project - the Mariah - this weekend. I have decided that Sunday shall be a big chore day. I can finally finally FINALLY get everything set up the way I want it this weekend! My pictures will all be up. I'll do a nice tidy up job and the new project will be my carrot. I suspect the weather is going to be crappy all weekend. It's March coming in like a lion. So it will be a perfect weekend for chores. I was realizing last weekend how much I miss football. It was a way to make me relax on the weekend. Now it's just go go go and I come into work on Monday craving a rest. It'll be here soon enough and in the meantime there's spring and summer to look forward to. And let's just make it through March.
28 February, 2013
Oh that dog!
Tink had one of those nights last night and I feel like I didn't sleep more than an hour at a stretch the entire night. First she wanted on the bed. Then off the bed. Then on the bed. Then off. Then she whined to get back on and when I reached for her she shimmied under the bed. And on and on it went. This is unusual for her and I don't know exactly why she did it, except that it was exceptionally noisy outside last night as well. Loud trucks late at night. Horns honking at 1:30 am. Kids skateboarding! All unusual. No - it's not a full moon either. And it's not getting any better here at work. Two people out in my office suite - the ones who take care of accepting packages and doing the mail - all those things I don't do. Plus the fire alarms in my office and in the hall are making a weird noise due to some sort of test. I have been here all of ten minutes and I'm about to scream! I am not in a good mood. Maybe my run will give me some well needed endorphins. I might need to go out earlier than noon!
I had a fairly productive evening last night working on the socks. I think I'm about half way through the leg. I should measure tonight before I go much further. I decided that I want to use that gorgeous Debbie Bliss Fez yarn to make the Mariah hoodie from Knitty. I'm not sure yet if I want to do the zipper. I think I do. I don't have much luck with button holes and the zipper gives it a nice finished look. I'll just have to borrow someone's sewing machine since I had to give mine away when I moved. It was clunky anyway. I'd like a new light one but seriously, I so rarely sew that it's not a necessity.
Rain today but it's still nice and mild. I hope it holds off for my run. I don't want to take my brand new autographed Seahawks hat out into the rain! I kept my old one here for that event. As long as it's sprinkling I'll go out. Pouring. Nope. I do need to find another race to have on the horizon. I can't do the St. Paddy's Day Dash this year and I'm quite disappointed. But I have volunteered to host a surprise birthday party on the 16th in my great room and I know that I will be in no shape to run four miles the next morning after that party. So I need to find one in April. Or May. I'll look today.
I had a fairly productive evening last night working on the socks. I think I'm about half way through the leg. I should measure tonight before I go much further. I decided that I want to use that gorgeous Debbie Bliss Fez yarn to make the Mariah hoodie from Knitty. I'm not sure yet if I want to do the zipper. I think I do. I don't have much luck with button holes and the zipper gives it a nice finished look. I'll just have to borrow someone's sewing machine since I had to give mine away when I moved. It was clunky anyway. I'd like a new light one but seriously, I so rarely sew that it's not a necessity.
Rain today but it's still nice and mild. I hope it holds off for my run. I don't want to take my brand new autographed Seahawks hat out into the rain! I kept my old one here for that event. As long as it's sprinkling I'll go out. Pouring. Nope. I do need to find another race to have on the horizon. I can't do the St. Paddy's Day Dash this year and I'm quite disappointed. But I have volunteered to host a surprise birthday party on the 16th in my great room and I know that I will be in no shape to run four miles the next morning after that party. So I need to find one in April. Or May. I'll look today.
27 February, 2013
Chaos plus
I worked from home yesterday amid the chaos. I had a problem with my fridge and in case they had to switch it out, I had to be there. The good news is that they did NOT have to move it, but I did lose some stuff in the freezer.
It was kind of difficult to get much done in that mess, but I managed to keep my head above water and also to slowly get things in order. The bookcases weren't too tough to put together and I managed to get all three done and by bedtime things were mostly in place. Tonight I have to hang the rest of my pictures and then it is just the closet I need to deal with. Despite my best efforts I still have things that need to be stored rather than in the top of my closet taking up valuable space that I could (and would) use for clothes and storing seasonal wardrobes. So to that end I stopped in at the office to find out the situation regarding storage units there in the building. The least expensive storage unit is $55 for 17 sq ft. Ah. That's maybe the size of a closet. That is way too much money for that little bit of space. So now Plan B - find a friend with a house who has a little bit of storage space they're willing to let me use.
Tuesday night I did a few rows and again last night a few more on the Bamboo Socks. Oh I am still really loving this yarn! So soft! And now that I have been able to unpack my stored yarn I am chomping at the bit to start a real project. Meaning something I can wear other than a scarf or hat. I rediscovered the silver grey yarn I bought for a hoodie and the lovely blue grey I bought for a cute Henley type shirt. I would like to do the hoodie but I'm not sure about the particular pattern I had originally thought of doing. I am going to double check the yardage I have and maybe find another pattern. The one I had bookmarked is actually a pull over and I would like a cardigan hoodie. It shouldn't be too difficult to find a pattern for that.
Noon knitting today and good thing too because I am still sore from the move Saturday and moving and building furniture Sunday and last night. My run on Monday wasn't great but I think I will have a good one tomorrow.
It is warming up. It's going to be nearly 60 this week. And I noticed this morning that it is light - much lighter. I guess I haven't really noticed how much lighter since it's been so cloudy lately. Oh but spring is in the air!!
It was kind of difficult to get much done in that mess, but I managed to keep my head above water and also to slowly get things in order. The bookcases weren't too tough to put together and I managed to get all three done and by bedtime things were mostly in place. Tonight I have to hang the rest of my pictures and then it is just the closet I need to deal with. Despite my best efforts I still have things that need to be stored rather than in the top of my closet taking up valuable space that I could (and would) use for clothes and storing seasonal wardrobes. So to that end I stopped in at the office to find out the situation regarding storage units there in the building. The least expensive storage unit is $55 for 17 sq ft. Ah. That's maybe the size of a closet. That is way too much money for that little bit of space. So now Plan B - find a friend with a house who has a little bit of storage space they're willing to let me use.
Tuesday night I did a few rows and again last night a few more on the Bamboo Socks. Oh I am still really loving this yarn! So soft! And now that I have been able to unpack my stored yarn I am chomping at the bit to start a real project. Meaning something I can wear other than a scarf or hat. I rediscovered the silver grey yarn I bought for a hoodie and the lovely blue grey I bought for a cute Henley type shirt. I would like to do the hoodie but I'm not sure about the particular pattern I had originally thought of doing. I am going to double check the yardage I have and maybe find another pattern. The one I had bookmarked is actually a pull over and I would like a cardigan hoodie. It shouldn't be too difficult to find a pattern for that.
Noon knitting today and good thing too because I am still sore from the move Saturday and moving and building furniture Sunday and last night. My run on Monday wasn't great but I think I will have a good one tomorrow.
It is warming up. It's going to be nearly 60 this week. And I noticed this morning that it is light - much lighter. I guess I haven't really noticed how much lighter since it's been so cloudy lately. Oh but spring is in the air!!
25 February, 2013
Living in chaos again!
Zoom! There went the weekend! Friday I went right to the mall to get my nails done because I had too much to do before the party on Saturday evening. But one thing led to another and I ended up stopping by a party at the apartment complex. So 7 o'clock Saturday morning was NOT a fun time to be up and around.
I had to help with this move, since I had been helped by this same gang so off I went to tote and generally be miserable. Ah, but I did it with a smile. And really it wasn't so bad at all. I got home with time to have an hour lay down before I had to clean out the two wall units that were being picked up. That was easy but now every surface in the place is covered with things that were in the wall units. Those things include yarn and needles and books and magazines and all my pretty bowls and little arty things that can't be hung. Big mess.
Saturday night was the fun silent auction event, which wasn't quite so fun as the one last year. Last year the food was set out in a buffet and it was all finger food. This year they had waiters circulating with things that mostly had to be eaten with a spoon or fork! Very awkward. And I couldn't get close to the blackjack table, where I cleaned up last year. But it was pleasant and I got to chat with some friends and drink some nice wine and I got an autographed Seahawks hat, which I sorely need because my running hat is a mess. It was good.
I found someone to take my dresser - it went to the new house I had moved my friend into on Saturday. So that further messed up my place because all the clothes in that dresser had to be taken out, obviously. Where to put them? On the bed of course. Then it was off to Ikea [Oh, someday I would love to be able to purchase furniture that I don't have to put together]. I got a new chest of drawers, new wall unit and TV stand and three tall narrow bookcases. The chest of drawers and the wall unit and TV stand were finally finished up by 7 last night. The bookcases I will start on tonight. Oh but it is lovely to be able to actually move around in that bedroom! Little by little this week I will be able to get things put away and the rest of my art hung. And THEN the place will be perfect. But for the next few days - chaos reigns.
I had to help with this move, since I had been helped by this same gang so off I went to tote and generally be miserable. Ah, but I did it with a smile. And really it wasn't so bad at all. I got home with time to have an hour lay down before I had to clean out the two wall units that were being picked up. That was easy but now every surface in the place is covered with things that were in the wall units. Those things include yarn and needles and books and magazines and all my pretty bowls and little arty things that can't be hung. Big mess.
Saturday night was the fun silent auction event, which wasn't quite so fun as the one last year. Last year the food was set out in a buffet and it was all finger food. This year they had waiters circulating with things that mostly had to be eaten with a spoon or fork! Very awkward. And I couldn't get close to the blackjack table, where I cleaned up last year. But it was pleasant and I got to chat with some friends and drink some nice wine and I got an autographed Seahawks hat, which I sorely need because my running hat is a mess. It was good.
I found someone to take my dresser - it went to the new house I had moved my friend into on Saturday. So that further messed up my place because all the clothes in that dresser had to be taken out, obviously. Where to put them? On the bed of course. Then it was off to Ikea [Oh, someday I would love to be able to purchase furniture that I don't have to put together]. I got a new chest of drawers, new wall unit and TV stand and three tall narrow bookcases. The chest of drawers and the wall unit and TV stand were finally finished up by 7 last night. The bookcases I will start on tonight. Oh but it is lovely to be able to actually move around in that bedroom! Little by little this week I will be able to get things put away and the rest of my art hung. And THEN the place will be perfect. But for the next few days - chaos reigns.
22 February, 2013
A storm is coming in
As mild as it has been this winter, it looks like we're going to get a bit of a blow here pretty soon. When I went out for my run yesterday it was quite breezy. I had to run into the wind, which I hate, but at least it wasn't raining. It is blowing quite steadily this morning but only misting. I am hoping it will stay like this so I can run at lunchtime. I most certainly won't be going out of it is storming. Not worth it.
I have a busy weekend coming up so I've been laying low this week, marshaling my energy. Tonight I have to empty my wall units since they are going away tomorrow afternoon. Yay!! Tomorrow morning early I'm going to help one of the friends who assisted in my move. Good news is that however the move is going, I have to be home by 3 to meet the people picking up the wall units, plus I need some time to rest and get ready for the fun charity auction event. I tried on the dress I want to wear tonight and hooray -- it fits. I've been quite the sloth lately so I wasn't sure. I guess I'm not as bad off as I thought. Well, that means I have to go to get my manicure and pedicure tonight after work. Sometimes there aren't enough hours in the day.
The socks are coming along great. I meant to snap a picture last night but ... well, I haven't been very good about posting FO's now have I? I have recently finished a wrap and two hats. I'll post pictures. Maybe next week.
I am going to be tired Monday. I have all my running around to do on Sunday, not to mention going to get my new chest and wall unit and shelf unit. Oh well, there's nothing I can do about it.
I have a busy weekend coming up so I've been laying low this week, marshaling my energy. Tonight I have to empty my wall units since they are going away tomorrow afternoon. Yay!! Tomorrow morning early I'm going to help one of the friends who assisted in my move. Good news is that however the move is going, I have to be home by 3 to meet the people picking up the wall units, plus I need some time to rest and get ready for the fun charity auction event. I tried on the dress I want to wear tonight and hooray -- it fits. I've been quite the sloth lately so I wasn't sure. I guess I'm not as bad off as I thought. Well, that means I have to go to get my manicure and pedicure tonight after work. Sometimes there aren't enough hours in the day.
The socks are coming along great. I meant to snap a picture last night but ... well, I haven't been very good about posting FO's now have I? I have recently finished a wrap and two hats. I'll post pictures. Maybe next week.
I am going to be tired Monday. I have all my running around to do on Sunday, not to mention going to get my new chest and wall unit and shelf unit. Oh well, there's nothing I can do about it.
21 February, 2013
No willpower.
None at all, when it comes to starting a new project. Tuesday afternoon was lovely and I decided I wanted to start a new pair of socks that evening, so I walked up to my LYS for some yarn. I found the yummiest sock yarn ever! It's plain - I didn't want a pattern - superwash merino with angora by Regia! It is just gorgeous! It's washable, but of course you can't put it in the dryer because of the angora content. But who cares? I never ever ever handwash my handknit socks and I have learned that most of them don't fare well in the dryer, so it's not a big deal to separate them out from the wet clothes and let them dry. I found a pattern on Ravelry for relatively plain socks called Bamboo Socks by Lorraine Ehrlinger. What I love about them is the leg, which is ribbed, but there are purl lines every few rows which mimic bamboo shoots. So it keeps the leg, which is the most boring part, interesting but not too complicated for TV knitting. And seriously I could never understand the intricate lace things that people get into with their socks. Who the heck is going to notice? It was difficult starting out because the yarn is rather slick and I have Addi circulars. Metal needles and slick yarn make for a difficult start. But I got it finally and last night nearly finished the first 20 row repeat. These are going to be super soft and gorgeous socks.
I have decided that this is the weekend I'm going to get the new wall units and get my apartment, if not finished, then nearly so. I do have a fancy party Saturday night, but I'll have Sunday to sleep in and then off to get the new stuff. It will take me a while to get it together but hopefully I can get the current wall units out on Saturday or maybe even Friday night. It's going to be messy for a few days but oh so nice when it's all done and I can move about in my teensie bedroom at least a little bit.
I'm going to run today. I haven't been out for at least a week. Let's hope the rain holds off. I was going to sign up for the St. Paddy's Day Dash this year because our apartment complex is putting together a team and it would be lots of fun. However, I have volunteered my great room for a surprise birthday party on March 16th, the day before the run. I certainly will not want to get up early and run 4 miles - the St. Paddy's Day Dash is not a 5K. So no matter. I can find another run to sign up for in April, maybe after my little holiday.
Tuesday I left my iPad at work! That is the first time I have done that since I got it and I was so mad at myself. The positive side of that is that I actually started a book! Of the four (yes 4!) new books I have laying around since Christmas, and perhaps earlier, I finally picked one up and of course, read far too late. I didn't forget it last night though. I don't suppose I shall do it again either. That's the first time I keenly felt the lack of a car because if I had a car I would have driven back to work and fetched it. I lived. But lesson learned.
I have decided that this is the weekend I'm going to get the new wall units and get my apartment, if not finished, then nearly so. I do have a fancy party Saturday night, but I'll have Sunday to sleep in and then off to get the new stuff. It will take me a while to get it together but hopefully I can get the current wall units out on Saturday or maybe even Friday night. It's going to be messy for a few days but oh so nice when it's all done and I can move about in my teensie bedroom at least a little bit.
I'm going to run today. I haven't been out for at least a week. Let's hope the rain holds off. I was going to sign up for the St. Paddy's Day Dash this year because our apartment complex is putting together a team and it would be lots of fun. However, I have volunteered my great room for a surprise birthday party on March 16th, the day before the run. I certainly will not want to get up early and run 4 miles - the St. Paddy's Day Dash is not a 5K. So no matter. I can find another run to sign up for in April, maybe after my little holiday.
Tuesday I left my iPad at work! That is the first time I have done that since I got it and I was so mad at myself. The positive side of that is that I actually started a book! Of the four (yes 4!) new books I have laying around since Christmas, and perhaps earlier, I finally picked one up and of course, read far too late. I didn't forget it last night though. I don't suppose I shall do it again either. That's the first time I keenly felt the lack of a car because if I had a car I would have driven back to work and fetched it. I lived. But lesson learned.
19 February, 2013
I can't play darts
Saturday evening I met up with some friends for happy hour and snacks. The party continued and we all ended up playing darts. But I don't play. I hadn't in years and years and I never was any good anyway. Needless to say I was not an asset to any team. I think ... I think I may have gotten one number. And we played two rounds! As the evening went on and the alcohol consumption continued I got even worse, if that's possible. I do remember hitting the wall with two out of my last three throws.
It was a holiday weekend and I had taken Friday off anyway so I had a nice long break. Friday my friend Robert and his new lady friend came over to give me a present he had gotten in India - a beautiful pink silk scarf. I gave them bowls of my yummy potato leek soup and it was a big hit. And then off they went. I had no idea he had a new girlfriend. Good for him. He deserves it. And he's taking her to Venice in a few months. Lucky lady.
My apartment is still coming together - slowly slowly. And no I haven't yet been able to get rid of the old wall units and dresser and that will be the final piece. But I had a brainstorm and carried it out Friday night and I am SO happy with the result. I had realized that putting my desk facing out was blocking the main source of fresh air, which is the sliding floor to ceiling window. I had first thought that having my desk there would be awesome for working from home, but I don't do it enough. The weather has been unseasonably warm - in the 50s - and the small window in the living area is not giving me the air movement I desire. So I emptied the baker's rack and put the cook books on a different shelf I was saving for the books in the bedroom and got rid of it. Then I moved the desk on that wall and put the little dining table in the space vacated by my desk. Now it is much lighter, I can get to the windows more easily and open it a lot or a little. It does make a huge difference in the amount of fresh air in the sleeping area. I'm happy. I am hoping by the end of this month I can have the other pieces in place and I can finally get the last few pieces of my art up and I'll have a little wiggle room in the sleeping area. That will be super.
I very much want to start a new knitting project and I just can't decide what to do! I know I have a couple of projects ready in the cupboard. I remember a cute Henley type T-shirt. Hmm ... maybe I'll take a look at that tonight. If memory serves I bought really yummy yarn for that. And seriously, the weather is really getting warmer and I can see the buds on the trees and shrubs. It looks like we're going straight into spring without any snow to speak of this winter. So a short sleeved project would be perfect!
It was a holiday weekend and I had taken Friday off anyway so I had a nice long break. Friday my friend Robert and his new lady friend came over to give me a present he had gotten in India - a beautiful pink silk scarf. I gave them bowls of my yummy potato leek soup and it was a big hit. And then off they went. I had no idea he had a new girlfriend. Good for him. He deserves it. And he's taking her to Venice in a few months. Lucky lady.
My apartment is still coming together - slowly slowly. And no I haven't yet been able to get rid of the old wall units and dresser and that will be the final piece. But I had a brainstorm and carried it out Friday night and I am SO happy with the result. I had realized that putting my desk facing out was blocking the main source of fresh air, which is the sliding floor to ceiling window. I had first thought that having my desk there would be awesome for working from home, but I don't do it enough. The weather has been unseasonably warm - in the 50s - and the small window in the living area is not giving me the air movement I desire. So I emptied the baker's rack and put the cook books on a different shelf I was saving for the books in the bedroom and got rid of it. Then I moved the desk on that wall and put the little dining table in the space vacated by my desk. Now it is much lighter, I can get to the windows more easily and open it a lot or a little. It does make a huge difference in the amount of fresh air in the sleeping area. I'm happy. I am hoping by the end of this month I can have the other pieces in place and I can finally get the last few pieces of my art up and I'll have a little wiggle room in the sleeping area. That will be super.
I very much want to start a new knitting project and I just can't decide what to do! I know I have a couple of projects ready in the cupboard. I remember a cute Henley type T-shirt. Hmm ... maybe I'll take a look at that tonight. If memory serves I bought really yummy yarn for that. And seriously, the weather is really getting warmer and I can see the buds on the trees and shrubs. It looks like we're going straight into spring without any snow to speak of this winter. So a short sleeved project would be perfect!
14 February, 2013
The difference a needle size can make
Happy Valentine's Day! My favorite day of the year.
I finished up a second Phoncible, this time switching out to a size 8 needle after the stranded band and that was perfect! I now have the slouchy beret I was going for in the first place. This hat is a wonderful way to use up the bits and bobs of Kureyon one may have laying around from other projects. I don't know what to do with the first one. I won't wear it now that I have a second that looks like what I wanted. Hopefully I can find someone to take it.
I've been under the weather the past couple of days. Nothing specific - a little sore throat, body aches, fatigue. Luckily work hasn't been too terribly busy so I took the time. I'm in today but I've got tomorrow marked off as a vacation day. I have a lunch planned with a happy wanderer who is bringing me something from his trip to India. Other than that, nothing special. Doggie walks if it isn't too rainy.
I've got my April vacation hotels chosen. One old and picturesque place in McMinneville and another more eclectic choice, a cabin in Lincoln City. It looks quite eccentric but I hear that it's not bad and the breakfasts are very nice. So - something different. Now to get through the next 8 1/2 weeks. Shouldn't be so bad.
I have noticed buds on the shrubbery. We might miss out on a real winter this year. So far no snow to speak of and the temperatures are relatively mild. Rain? Oh yes, but that is SO much better than ice and snow.
I finished up a second Phoncible, this time switching out to a size 8 needle after the stranded band and that was perfect! I now have the slouchy beret I was going for in the first place. This hat is a wonderful way to use up the bits and bobs of Kureyon one may have laying around from other projects. I don't know what to do with the first one. I won't wear it now that I have a second that looks like what I wanted. Hopefully I can find someone to take it.
I've been under the weather the past couple of days. Nothing specific - a little sore throat, body aches, fatigue. Luckily work hasn't been too terribly busy so I took the time. I'm in today but I've got tomorrow marked off as a vacation day. I have a lunch planned with a happy wanderer who is bringing me something from his trip to India. Other than that, nothing special. Doggie walks if it isn't too rainy.
I've got my April vacation hotels chosen. One old and picturesque place in McMinneville and another more eclectic choice, a cabin in Lincoln City. It looks quite eccentric but I hear that it's not bad and the breakfasts are very nice. So - something different. Now to get through the next 8 1/2 weeks. Shouldn't be so bad.
I have noticed buds on the shrubbery. We might miss out on a real winter this year. So far no snow to speak of and the temperatures are relatively mild. Rain? Oh yes, but that is SO much better than ice and snow.
11 February, 2013
Whoosh!
That's the sound my weekend made. Talk about jam packed. I am still spinning. Of course, I forgot to set my alarm so I've been running since 6:45, but that's another story.
Friday was a relatively quiet evening because Saturday (not Sunday, as it usually is) was race day. This is the first time I've taken the bus to a race from this apartment and I cut it pretty darned close, I must admit. But on the positive side, at least I wasn't standing around getting cold waiting for the start. I got there, found my place and away we went. I had forgotten to take in a little extra hydration at breakfast and since I got to the race late I didn't have time for my usual stretches so I got a cramp up the back of my left leg into my glut. Ouch. But I kept going and I did better than I thought I was going to. Lately I've been right in the middle or lower of my age division, but this time I was higher - 19 out of 49. That's decent.
I wanted to get my nails done but after lunch I went to the salon and they were too busy for me so I had to skip it. I got to have a 20 minute snooze and then I had to leave to Cirque du Soleil's Amaluna. It was really something. All except the clowns. I don't like circus clowns and I particularly don't care for the European style clowning that they do. Otherwise it was a spectacle. Beautiful and entertaining.
The Ballard Farmer's Market stays open all year 'round, so since it was beautiful and sunny on Sunday, that was my destination. Met up with some friends and did a twice around all the stalls. By the end of the first trip around I was carrying a bag that looked like the stereotypical Hollywood market bag - baguette and flowers sticking out of the top of it. I bought some tulips and some incredible lamb ravioli and .. oh just tons of stuff. Leeks for soup and mushrooms, cheese - although the guy who sold that wonderful aged goat cheese wasn't there and I was looking forward to that.
I did finally get my nails done Sunday early afternoon and then enjoyed a nice long lunch. A nap would have been nice but it was getting late so I finally took advantage of the free movie passes I get each month and went to see "Identify Theft". It was cute. Light fare. Nothing to strain the brain.
I cooked up that lamb ravioli and braised some green I got, but I did something wrong and they didn't taste nearly so nice as the last time I did it. And then I got my relaxing time. An hour or so watching stupid TV and knitting on my hat. This is much more colorful than the last and I am really happy with the floppiness of the crown.
I woke up with a sore throat on Sunday. Still fighting it. I took Nyquil last night and slept decently. Maybe I will be able to hold it off again.
Friday was a relatively quiet evening because Saturday (not Sunday, as it usually is) was race day. This is the first time I've taken the bus to a race from this apartment and I cut it pretty darned close, I must admit. But on the positive side, at least I wasn't standing around getting cold waiting for the start. I got there, found my place and away we went. I had forgotten to take in a little extra hydration at breakfast and since I got to the race late I didn't have time for my usual stretches so I got a cramp up the back of my left leg into my glut. Ouch. But I kept going and I did better than I thought I was going to. Lately I've been right in the middle or lower of my age division, but this time I was higher - 19 out of 49. That's decent.
I wanted to get my nails done but after lunch I went to the salon and they were too busy for me so I had to skip it. I got to have a 20 minute snooze and then I had to leave to Cirque du Soleil's Amaluna. It was really something. All except the clowns. I don't like circus clowns and I particularly don't care for the European style clowning that they do. Otherwise it was a spectacle. Beautiful and entertaining.
The Ballard Farmer's Market stays open all year 'round, so since it was beautiful and sunny on Sunday, that was my destination. Met up with some friends and did a twice around all the stalls. By the end of the first trip around I was carrying a bag that looked like the stereotypical Hollywood market bag - baguette and flowers sticking out of the top of it. I bought some tulips and some incredible lamb ravioli and .. oh just tons of stuff. Leeks for soup and mushrooms, cheese - although the guy who sold that wonderful aged goat cheese wasn't there and I was looking forward to that.
I did finally get my nails done Sunday early afternoon and then enjoyed a nice long lunch. A nap would have been nice but it was getting late so I finally took advantage of the free movie passes I get each month and went to see "Identify Theft". It was cute. Light fare. Nothing to strain the brain.
I cooked up that lamb ravioli and braised some green I got, but I did something wrong and they didn't taste nearly so nice as the last time I did it. And then I got my relaxing time. An hour or so watching stupid TV and knitting on my hat. This is much more colorful than the last and I am really happy with the floppiness of the crown.
I woke up with a sore throat on Sunday. Still fighting it. I took Nyquil last night and slept decently. Maybe I will be able to hold it off again.
08 February, 2013
Tried and true
The cure for the February blues? A plan. That's right - a plan! It came to me yesterday. It was sunny and cold and I had quite a decent run, so I know the race tomorrow won't be a total bust. I won't be breaking any records, but it should be fun. Anyway a good run and sunshine always brighten my spirits and that's when I realized that all I need to get myself through the rest of this winter is a plan. I'm thinking an 8 week plan with a little holiday at the end of it. That's a short enough time to keep me engaged, a long enough time to get rid of my winter flab and get back into my nice jeans, and then spring will be in the air! Yay! I'll put a few more details together maybe this afternoon while I'm copying an exam - something to help me through that mind numbing process. And definitely this weekend. By Monday I should be ready to book some hotels. I am thinking about a road trip to Oregon for some wine tasting with maybe a stop on the coast for a night or two. It sounds weird, but Oregon wineries are awesome! And it is extremely beautiful there in the hills. It reminds me of France in Burgundy, which is the same latitude I believe. Is it Burgundy? Or .. well, anyway it's a fun trip and there are some quite good restaurants down there as well. So - something to dream about and plan about and get me through this darkness of body and spirit.
I wish I could figure out what it is that causes Tinkerbell to have a restless night. The thing is that she has a routine that is practically carved in stone. She has her inner clock and at 7 o'clock she lets me know it's time to go outside and at 8 or 8:30 she wants to be in bed. Even if I'm just quietly reading or knitting she wants to be ON the bed, not laying next to me on the couch. Then most nights she'll sleep just fine. But last night she was on and off the bed at least 3 times, maybe four. And that, my friends, makes for a very bad night for me. I am so groggy. I've got to get a good night's rest tonight so maybe I'll make her play ball for a little longer and make sure she's good and tired.
I finished the band and started on the body of the hat last night, changing to size 8 needles rather than size 7. It seems to be making a difference and I think this one will definitely be floppier, which is what we're going for. Then I think I might pick up one of my unfinished projects and do some finishing. No, really! I have two projects that come to mind. One I have all the pieces made and it just needs to be sewn together - a little top that I think would be good for these temperatures. Then there's the Cloisonne jacket, which I only need to finish the facing and sew in on. Probably an hour's work. Yes. I will finish one or the other.
I wish I could figure out what it is that causes Tinkerbell to have a restless night. The thing is that she has a routine that is practically carved in stone. She has her inner clock and at 7 o'clock she lets me know it's time to go outside and at 8 or 8:30 she wants to be in bed. Even if I'm just quietly reading or knitting she wants to be ON the bed, not laying next to me on the couch. Then most nights she'll sleep just fine. But last night she was on and off the bed at least 3 times, maybe four. And that, my friends, makes for a very bad night for me. I am so groggy. I've got to get a good night's rest tonight so maybe I'll make her play ball for a little longer and make sure she's good and tired.
I finished the band and started on the body of the hat last night, changing to size 8 needles rather than size 7. It seems to be making a difference and I think this one will definitely be floppier, which is what we're going for. Then I think I might pick up one of my unfinished projects and do some finishing. No, really! I have two projects that come to mind. One I have all the pieces made and it just needs to be sewn together - a little top that I think would be good for these temperatures. Then there's the Cloisonne jacket, which I only need to finish the facing and sew in on. Probably an hour's work. Yes. I will finish one or the other.
07 February, 2013
Tempests in tea cups
Where do you stand? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Yeah, me too. My sister and I were on vacation a couple of years ago and both of us at some point(s) during our holiday were either reading or responding to work email. Work is with us everywhere now days and one must consciously NOT look at work email or respond to it. So last night - I can't help myself - I checked my work email before turning out the light and lo and behold there's a storm a brewin'. Seems that the mid-term answer key had an incorrect answer. The answer key for an exam that was given last week, by the way. The professor hadn't looked at her item analysis. If she had she would have noticed right off the bat that most of the class missed a certain question and could have nipped it in the bud. As it was, the students figured it out. Now, this is really a non-issue. It happens. Sometimes it is because of a human error filling out the key, sometimes it is a bad question that needs to be thrown out. The point is, it's a simple fix. But everybody was going crazy last night and I made the mistake of reading it. It's already - here it is 8:32 am - it's already being re-scored. But my night was not restful. When will I ever learn? Well, we know the answer to that question, don't we?
I am NOT in a good mood. I am disappointed that I'm not having good lunchtime runs, for one thing. I guess I should just shake it off. It happens sometimes, just like it happens when I all of a sudden start having super fast and great runs. I'll have fun at the race Saturday but it is ever so much more fun when I know I'll be fast. You know - relatively fast. The shirts are really great this year though. That's a good thing.
I think I need to plan something before March. Definitely. I need a mini-vacation.
I am NOT in a good mood. I am disappointed that I'm not having good lunchtime runs, for one thing. I guess I should just shake it off. It happens sometimes, just like it happens when I all of a sudden start having super fast and great runs. I'll have fun at the race Saturday but it is ever so much more fun when I know I'll be fast. You know - relatively fast. The shirts are really great this year though. That's a good thing.
I think I need to plan something before March. Definitely. I need a mini-vacation.
06 February, 2013
He went the wrong way!
This has never happened to me before - of course I haven't been riding the bus to work for that long - the driver took a wrong turn! Or rather, did not turn at all when he should have. It took him nearly 10 minutes to get turned around and back on track. Crazy.
I had a most disappointing and terrible run yesterday at lunch. I don't know why, except I wasn't feeling 100%, with a sinus headache. I can't run today so I've only got two more days to get it together, because Saturday is the race. I left work early and went home and had a nice sleep. I will count on good training sessions Thursday and Friday.
I've downloaded a new audiobook and I am hoping it'll help my state of mind - my February state of mind. I have GOT to nail down a vacation sometime soon. I need something to plan for, something with a large sunshine and warmth component.
Noon knitting today and I've brought in three things to show - my completed chunky cowl, the Argosy Wrap and my first Phoncible. I did a little more on the second one last night and brought that in to work on.
Oh dear -- I've got a meeting soon and I need some food.
I had a most disappointing and terrible run yesterday at lunch. I don't know why, except I wasn't feeling 100%, with a sinus headache. I can't run today so I've only got two more days to get it together, because Saturday is the race. I left work early and went home and had a nice sleep. I will count on good training sessions Thursday and Friday.
I've downloaded a new audiobook and I am hoping it'll help my state of mind - my February state of mind. I have GOT to nail down a vacation sometime soon. I need something to plan for, something with a large sunshine and warmth component.
Noon knitting today and I've brought in three things to show - my completed chunky cowl, the Argosy Wrap and my first Phoncible. I did a little more on the second one last night and brought that in to work on.
Oh dear -- I've got a meeting soon and I need some food.
05 February, 2013
Right on schedule
The February blues. There is a reason I always ... almost always ... plan a vacation for March or April, and that's the February blues. Yesterday it descended with a vengeance. Not helped in the least by the music I was listening to, which can kick you in gut as surely as a scent. I finished my audiobook and haven't yet downloaded a new one. So yes, I'm trying to keep my music as neutral as I can and I'll get a new book on my iPhone soon.
Work is busy and we're shorthanded. Since I've moved into an office in the main office suite I am called upon to do a few housekeeping things when we're shorthanded. No disasters so far, thank goodness. People are aware of my lack of familiarity with these things and give me simple commands - "turn off the coffee maker in the break room" - like that. I can do that!
I washed the Argosy Wrap last night and brought out my mats to block it on, but it's too long to have them two abreast and it flops over the sides with just one block, but that's what I had to do. So I'm not pinning out the ends but it's drying just fine so I think it'll look good when it's dry. I also walked up to get another skein of Kureyon and started another hat last night. I only got a couple of rows in because of phone calls and dog walks and dinner. I can work on it more tonight. It's great TV knitting.
I had an early meeting this morning and another meeting tomorrow after the monthly curriculum meeting, all starting the planning for Anatomy, which starts September 2nd this year. I know -- 7 months in advance -- but it's that complicated, getting the schedule set and everyone on the same page. Plus we're making changes this year. Wheeee ....
I feel like I have a bag over my head. We need sunshine. I need sunshine.
Work is busy and we're shorthanded. Since I've moved into an office in the main office suite I am called upon to do a few housekeeping things when we're shorthanded. No disasters so far, thank goodness. People are aware of my lack of familiarity with these things and give me simple commands - "turn off the coffee maker in the break room" - like that. I can do that!
I washed the Argosy Wrap last night and brought out my mats to block it on, but it's too long to have them two abreast and it flops over the sides with just one block, but that's what I had to do. So I'm not pinning out the ends but it's drying just fine so I think it'll look good when it's dry. I also walked up to get another skein of Kureyon and started another hat last night. I only got a couple of rows in because of phone calls and dog walks and dinner. I can work on it more tonight. It's great TV knitting.
I had an early meeting this morning and another meeting tomorrow after the monthly curriculum meeting, all starting the planning for Anatomy, which starts September 2nd this year. I know -- 7 months in advance -- but it's that complicated, getting the schedule set and everyone on the same page. Plus we're making changes this year. Wheeee ....
I feel like I have a bag over my head. We need sunshine. I need sunshine.
04 February, 2013
Another cute hat
I've been on a roll -- I finished another project. This time a hat. Because I had left over re-claimed Kureyon, now that the Argosy Wrap is finished, I looked for a hat to make and found Phoncible, which totally fit the bill. I cast on for it Friday evening and by the third quarter of the Super Bowl I had it finished. It is SO cute and I actually wore it to walk Tink last night. I rarely wear knitted ski or watch caps, but if the hat is more like a beret I do indeed wear them. This is floppy beret-type hat and nice and warm. I am sorely tempted to pop up to Weaving Works at lunchtime today to purchase another ball of Kureyon and get another one on the needles. I know I have enough of one colorway but I need a contrasting one. Maybe this time something a bit brighter than the shades in my first version. It is perfect TV knitting. Or, as was the case with me, hanging out and drinking and chatting knitting.
Of course I should be running today, since I've got a race this coming weekend, but one thing led to another and I didn't get my running clothes laundered so .. I'll take a nice brisk walk and call it good. I know this is going to be a slow race. I'll have fun and that's all that counts.
The Super Bowl was a close game, which is always nice. The bad part was that the power went out during the game, right after half time, so that added more than 30 minutes onto it. I was just fried by the time I got home and there was absolutely no way I was going to do laundry. I barely made it through a shower before I crashed. Tink was wiped out as well. There was another dog at the party. She is small - I can't remember what kind but maybe Pomeranian - and she tolerates Tink. She won't play, but neither does she attack. Although she did get a little put out when she found Tinkerbell playing with one of her toys. Tink was happy getting everyone to scratch her belly.
I noticed this weekend that it is noticeably lighter around 5 o'clock now. IF it's clear, which it was Friday evening. February and March are always such hard months for me. Plod on.
Of course I should be running today, since I've got a race this coming weekend, but one thing led to another and I didn't get my running clothes laundered so .. I'll take a nice brisk walk and call it good. I know this is going to be a slow race. I'll have fun and that's all that counts.
The Super Bowl was a close game, which is always nice. The bad part was that the power went out during the game, right after half time, so that added more than 30 minutes onto it. I was just fried by the time I got home and there was absolutely no way I was going to do laundry. I barely made it through a shower before I crashed. Tink was wiped out as well. There was another dog at the party. She is small - I can't remember what kind but maybe Pomeranian - and she tolerates Tink. She won't play, but neither does she attack. Although she did get a little put out when she found Tinkerbell playing with one of her toys. Tink was happy getting everyone to scratch her belly.
I noticed this weekend that it is noticeably lighter around 5 o'clock now. IF it's clear, which it was Friday evening. February and March are always such hard months for me. Plod on.
01 February, 2013
Finally!
Oh it is done! I finally finished that Argosy Wrap. I have no pictures today though because I do want to block it. As it is, unblocked, it's 90 inches long, so I'm not going to be trying for any more length, but rather pinning out the edges. Will I use it? Maybe. It's striking, that's for sure. But I wouldn't call it pretty actually. As for my next project -- still up in the air, although now that I have all that recaptured Kureyon I may do a little slouchy hat if I can find the pattern again.
For the first time last night I was having trouble with noise. I am harboring no illusions that it's going to be quiet once the weather changes and people are able to sit outside in the plaza. I know I'm going to get some good ear plugs at that point and I don't expect it to be too troublesome until the weekend. But last night people were coming out of the theatre, late, and it sounded like a group of them stood in the cover of the theatre and talked and laughed for about an hour. I could be misremembering because I was awakened twice so maybe it wasn't the same group of people. I know I woke at 11 and again at 12:30. I can't imagine a movie getting out that late though ... hmmm .. I'm going to do a little more checking on that. But I was not happy. And that's with only one little window open. When it gets warmer I'm going to have to open the larger floor to ceiling window. I don't call it a door because it opened onto a Juliet balcony, which is no balcony at all, but gives the appearance from the street. It will, however, get me some much needed fresh air in the warmer weather.
This has been a busy busy week and I'm certainly ready for the weekend. Super Bowl party on Sunday should be fun. And I'm helping a friend with a huge remodel, so Saturday will be spent, part of the day, freely giving my opinions. That's always fun, isn't it? Well, rarely do I get paid for them.
I had a nice run yesterday, strong and much faster than Tuesday. I am looking forward to another one today. The rain has gone and I saw some blue sky. Fingers crossed - it looks like we have skipped winter, at least down here for now. It's quite mild today. The mountains have been getting lots and lots of snow. That's where it belongs.
For the first time last night I was having trouble with noise. I am harboring no illusions that it's going to be quiet once the weather changes and people are able to sit outside in the plaza. I know I'm going to get some good ear plugs at that point and I don't expect it to be too troublesome until the weekend. But last night people were coming out of the theatre, late, and it sounded like a group of them stood in the cover of the theatre and talked and laughed for about an hour. I could be misremembering because I was awakened twice so maybe it wasn't the same group of people. I know I woke at 11 and again at 12:30. I can't imagine a movie getting out that late though ... hmmm .. I'm going to do a little more checking on that. But I was not happy. And that's with only one little window open. When it gets warmer I'm going to have to open the larger floor to ceiling window. I don't call it a door because it opened onto a Juliet balcony, which is no balcony at all, but gives the appearance from the street. It will, however, get me some much needed fresh air in the warmer weather.
This has been a busy busy week and I'm certainly ready for the weekend. Super Bowl party on Sunday should be fun. And I'm helping a friend with a huge remodel, so Saturday will be spent, part of the day, freely giving my opinions. That's always fun, isn't it? Well, rarely do I get paid for them.
I had a nice run yesterday, strong and much faster than Tuesday. I am looking forward to another one today. The rain has gone and I saw some blue sky. Fingers crossed - it looks like we have skipped winter, at least down here for now. It's quite mild today. The mountains have been getting lots and lots of snow. That's where it belongs.
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