Knit Haven

Good Morning ...

2011-03-12T04:50:00.002-07:00

Okay ... so I'm not doing so good in the blogging area again. I've been feeling a little down and confused ... that's nothing new ... but I think about blogging ... I just don't usually do it.
I've been trying to knit on the first-round socks for Sock Madness 5. I'm hoping to get them finished in time, but I'm not sure I will. They are a little more snug than I had hoped, but they should fit someone! My son's been wanting another pair of socks for quite a while; they will probably go to him.
I'm also still knitting on a pair of socks for my friend pollywoggg (*note to self to remember to link her later!). I'm knitting them in Knit Picks Stroll Duchess Heather and using the Khotan pattern. I can't remember right off if I'd blogged about them before or not, so this might be repeat info. I'm working on the heel flap, though they've taken a back seat right now to the SM5 socks. Sorry!! :(
I also started a pair of Embossed Leaves in Malabrigo Persia for my mom. This is the first time I've used this yarn ... and I have to agree with everyone! It's such a nice yarn to work with! I hope they won't wear through to soon, as this yarn doesn't have nylon. I think they will be just fine for mom, though.
I've decided to try something to lose weight. I won't comment more about it here now, but if all goes well, I will say more in a couple of weeks ...
If anyone reads this, please keep me in your prayers!:)

Alone

2011-02-09T05:56:00.003-07:00

"I wish Pooh were here. It’s so much more friendly with two."
-- Piglet (A.A. Milne)

I guess I'm just having one of those days ... this evening especially ... For the most part, I enjoy being alone more than I thought I would ... but sometimes I miss having friends ... and I can't lie and say it wouldn't be nice to have the baby's father around ... or someone around ... Someone to laugh with, talk to, hug me ...
I guess some days are just harder than others ... and I may feel better tommorrow ... I may even feel better in a couple of hours ... but right now it is what it is ... and I just feel sorta sad ... and lonely ...

WIP

2011-02-06T00:25:00.003-07:00

WIP. That's what I am ... and that's what I have to remember .... I will never be perfect ... and for a certain someone, that is unacceptable. So, why let that person influence how I feel about myself ... hmmm .... I think he needs to be taken out of the equation for my happiness ...
I finished my Black Tie, Optional socks ... and I LOVE them! I will post a pic soon ... I used Socks That Rock Lightweight in the Lenore colorway. I'd forgotten that I truly do love STR ...
I started another mystery sock KAL yesterday and will post more info later ... off to finish reading a chapter in my Speech Communications online class and then take an exam ... after I lay my lil pumpkin down again ... :)

Tuesday

2011-01-25T11:56:00.002-07:00

What an original post title, huh? LOL! I wanted to make sure I at least posted something ... want to make blogging a habit again, so I will do it daily ... even if I don't have much to say ...
I'm fixin to work on my socks for a bit while the baby's sleeping, so maybe I'll check back in a lil later! :)
Have a great day!

Happy New Year

2011-01-24T04:32:00.004-07:00

Think I should try this again?? LOL!
I'm going to challenge myself to posting at least a couple times a week, if not daily. Even if I only stop by to say hi ... I think it's important for me to be able to express myself "on paper." That's something I haven't done for a long time, and I think it's had a negative impact on me ... Being able to express myself is necessary for me to find more peace, I believe.
I've totally forgotten how to add pics and projects so if anyone happens to read this and can offer some quick tips, I would appreciate it!! Otherwise, I hope to re-learn those things soon! :)
Currently I am knitting a pair of socks with the Hazel Knits Artisan group on Ravelry. It is a mystery sock KAL, and the pattern is called Gentian. I bought my first skein of Hazel Knits yarn for this project ... and I'm LOVING it! The yarn and the pattern! The colorway I chose is Spanish Wine in the Piquant base. It's turning out beautifully.
I got a late start since I didn't start until midway through January, but I'm challenging myself to knit more again. It's so soothing for me! Especially with the lil one! It's a little funny thinking I have a 3 month old son and a 7 month old grandson, but I love both sooo much!!! Love my other kids too, but it's definitely nice having lil ones around again .. :)
Back to Hazel Knits ... I am planning on joining the sock club they have, my first shipment to be receive in Feburary ... Can't wait! I've been wanting to join a sock club again for quite some time. I miss being able to be a part of the Socks That Rock club, but financially things have not been good here.
My last relationship caused a lot of changes in my life ... and a lot of them weren't good. I know that ultimately I am responsibl for where I am today, but I let "him" control so much of what I did for the last 4-1/2 years ... time to be strong again ... to become "me" again ... :)
Okay ... I took the first step ...

Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T15:13:00.002-07:00

I am thankful for so many things in my life ... I don't understand why I still sometimes want what I can't have ... who actually ... and the crazy thing is that even if I did have him ... what would it matter because he doesn't know how to love ... :(
I have his son though ... Jonah will be six weeks old this Friday ... and he's so precious! I am very thankful for my three children, my grandson and my family ... and for the many wonderful friends I do have ...
Lord, please give me the strength to forgive so that I can just let go and move on ... I deserve so much more than him ...
Happy Thanksgiving to all ... :)

Pain

2010-09-17T09:10:00.000-06:00

It has been a rough couple of years for me ... and my son. I am 8 months pregnant and after 4 years with my ex he decided he wanted nothing to do with me after I got pregnant. Last night he gave me some news that stole my last bit of hope that we'd ever make things work .... I have so much hurt inside ... want to forgive and let go ... give it all to God ... my tears are falling ...God please help me ...

Tears Will Dry ...

2010-08-18T18:07:00.002-06:00

Today has been an AWFUL day! My eyes are swollen and my head hurts! I don't understand why my ex has to go out of his way to make me sad and put me down ... I think it's because he's unhappy with himself, but being 7 months pregnant with his son ... well ... it doesn't make me feel very good.

The ray of sunshine for today came, however, when I received an e-mail from Stacey. I had left a comment on her blog ... and she e-mailed me saying that I would be the recipient of the sock pattern she had just completed. Thank you Stacey!! :)

That made me smile. It really is the little things that can remind you that not everything is awful ... even when sometimes it seems that way ... I don't have to let "Him" define who I am ... it hurts ... but I will survive and I will succeed ...

Joy

2010-08-11T09:31:00.002-06:00

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

It's difficult, at times, to remember that everything I'm going through is for a reason. Everything happens for a reason. We have choices ... but we will still have hard times, trials ... without them, we cannot grow ... I am thankful for these times ...

10 Things I Hope Happen Within the Next Year ...

2010-08-08T15:30:00.004-06:00

I need to blog. Hopefully this will be a start ... slow as it may be.

10 Things I Hope Happen Within the Next Year Are:

Be happy again.
Do more things with my son Noah.
Have a healthy baby. (Hurry up October! LOL)
Start knitting again.
Laugh more ... again.
Learn to forgive.
Try to get back into selling AVON.
Re-discover myself.
Lose weight again (after I have the baby).
Blog more! ;)

That's a start ...

Wow!

2008-10-14T09:37:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it ... but it's been almost a year (!) since I last posted ... I guess I got really tired of trying to get into my blog and not being able to ... We'll see how long this lasts ...

Anyhow ... a lot has changed since I last was here ... I've moved ... things are actually working out with my boyfriend ... my son is really starting to show me that he knows EVERYTHING and I know nothing ... my daughter got married ... hmmm ... a lot more too ... some I don't want to get into now ...

Either way ... my knitting mojo has definitely been MIA for quite some time now ... but as it starts to get cooler ... I'm really trying to start a couple new projects ...

One is an afghan for me and my man ... planning on something in purple and black ... no pattern picked out yet ...

Next ... I need to finish a beanie that I started ages ago for my son ... cooler weather ya know?

And (OF COURSE) ... socks! I'm going to try a footie pattern in Fixation ... see if I can maybe whip out a few pairs for Christmas gifts for my bf, his family ... and of course ... me and my son ...

Guess that's all for now ... but hope to be back soon and stay in touch more often!!! :)

I'm HERE!!!

2007-11-07T12:41:00.000-07:00

I have had sooo many problems tryin to log into my blog lately!! Every time I try to access blogger ... it wigs out on me ... and tries to open like a million and a half windows ... with a new one continually popping up! I end up having to open my task manager and close blogger .. or it will just keep goin and goin ... sorta like the Energizer Bunny, I guess ... but it REALLY SUCKS!!!

I'm amazed that I got in today ... but really glad ... cuz (obviously) I haven't been posting like I should for Secret Pal 11. So ... I definitely wanna let my Pal know that I am here ... just been unable to post for a while ... :(

Just a quick thought that I read recently in Debbie Macomber's "Knit Together: Discover God's Plan for Your Life:"
"Positive thinking won't let you do anything, but it will let you do everything better than negative thinking will." - Zig Ziglar

Hope to update on my knitting soon ... but gotta get back to work! :(

To My Secret Pal ...

2007-10-05T12:26:00.000-06:00

I got home yesterday and found a package waiting for me!! Looked at the return address ... YEAH!!! From my Secret Pal!!

I opened it and ... OH MY GOSH!!!

I was so surprised to see the wollmeise!!! It's GORGEOUS!! In shades of purples and teals and blues and black ... Can't wait to try it!!!!

Also included was yarn for another pair of socks (Regia in a mauve color) too!!! YEAH!!

Can never have too many tape measures ... And the beautiful vintage one you sent ... I'm gonna make sure I never lose it!!

I'm not sure if I'll try the dpns ... I'm very much in love with my circs ... but I will "pay them forward" to someone most definitely ... I hope that doesn't offend you ...

And the pattern ... I'd never seen that one before! LOVE IT! It will be on my list of to-dos ...

Thanks you so much for being a wonderful Secret Pal!! And hope things are doing well for you!!

WOW!!!

2007-09-03T15:20:00.001-06:00

I hadn't realized it had ben so long since I'd last posted!!! I've had so much going on ...

Work has been busy ... but that's been a good thing for the most part ... One of the technicians has been on maternity leave ... so I've been filling in ... doing her Food Stamp and Medicaid interviews and cases ... I soo miss being a technician! I hope that a position will come open soon ...

My mom has been in the hospital since Friday ... and she doesn't seem to be doing much better ... I'm really stressed about that right now ...

I've gotten some more done on my Waving Lace socks, and am almost ready to start the heels on a pair of Rococo socks for my mom ...

I just want to say "hi" to my unknown Secret Pal ... hope things are going well for you ...

SP 11 Questionnaire

2007-08-06T19:19:00.000-06:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I mostly knit socks ... so sock yarn! Normally a wool/nylon combination ...

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I usually have a pair of socks on all my needles ... so they don't really get stored away ... lol ...

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I would consider myself and intermediate-advanced knitter ... I've been seriously knitting for about 3-4 years now, I think ... and am mostly self-taught.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? not yet ... but if I get one I will let you know ...

5. What's your favorite scent? I love vanilla and spicy scents ... don't care so much for floral or fruity scents ...

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? not really big on candy ... but I do like Almond Joys and Nut Goodies ...

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? Right now knitting is my one and only passion ... and I have a drop spindle, but it really hasn't caught my attention too much ...

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) My computer can play MP3s ... I love all sorts of music ... from classic country (which I particularly love!) to reggaeton ...

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? LOVE purple!!! don't really care for yellows and greens ...

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am a single mother to two children ... we have cats ...

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Nope ... don't wear any of these ...

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? SOCKS!!!

13. What are you knitting right now? several pairs of SOCKS!!!

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? I am happy with whatever I receive ...

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I use addi turbo circulars ... mostly 40- to 47-inch since I do my socks magic loop, two at a time ...

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? I have a ball winder but no swift ...

17. How old is your oldest UFO? maybe a year???

18. What is your favorite holiday? I guess I really don't have a favorite holiday ... sometimes they make me sad, even though I shouldn't be ...

19. Is there anything that you collect? I collect monkeys and sheep ...

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I have a subscription to Interweave Knits ... I would love to try some Sea Wool and Wollmeise (not sure I spelled that right) ... there are others ... and I will add them or let you know when I think of others ...

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I would like to do some fair-isle knitting someday ...

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Sock Knitter for Life! lol ...

23. When is your birthday? April 13, 1976

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? Not yet! But hopefully soon!!!

Crossroads

2007-07-31T14:16:00.000-06:00

I have some decisions to make ... and none of them are going to be easy ... Please keep me in your prayers ...

I've actually been able to knit some ... for a while there I couldn't even do that ... Have just a couple more rows to knit on my second pair of Monkey socks ... Will post a pic when I can ... I was gonna keep this pair for myself ... but think I'm going to give them to my friend Samantha instead ...

The whole last year of my life has been so up and down ... I've lost a part of me ... a big part of my heart ... and I don't smile like I used to ... When you're on top of the world, so happy ... then you're knocked down ... Up and down, over and over ... you sorta forget to smile ... or laugh ... cuz it hurts to much to trust and try again ...

Quick Update

2007-02-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

I finished my socks ... but the pic I took of them is not that great ... Then, to make matters worse ... the first time I wore them ... I left them on the couch when I went to bed ... When I work up the next morning ... one of the socks was gone! The cats must have taken off with it!!!! And I still haven't seen anything of it ... :( Don't even want to think about that ...

Anyhow ... I'm working on a pair of socks in the Monkey pattern. I'm doing mine toe-up on one circ, two at a time ... I'm really liking doing my socks like this!

I always started a blog for a knit-along for these socks. If you're interested, you can join here. Just leave a comment with your e-mail address, and I'll send an invite out to you as soon as I can ...

A New Year ...

2007-01-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well ... it's a new year ... Huh ... Doesn't feel much different than the last one ... LOL ...

Anyhow ... I've been trying to do some more knitting ... but it's still been sorta rough ... have to force myself to knit sometimes ... I do have a pair of socks almost finished though ... And they're FOR ME!!!

Working on them has taken me through a lot these last couple months ... The death of one of my best friends in the world ... the end of a relationship that I thought was gonna last ...

And as I'm working down the foot towards the toes ... I'm doing a lot of thinking ... looking inside ... finding myself again ...

Cuz somewhere in the last six months or so especially ... I lost a big part of myself ... I won't go into this too much right now ... but slowly ... I'm trying to find that piece of my heart again ... the stronger person that I once was ...

I hope to get pics of the socks up as soon as I get them finished ... And then I plan to start another pair for me ... and also another pair for my son ... he hasn't had a pair for quite a while ... He outgrew his last ones ... and I'm sure these won't fit him for too long either ... LOL ... But as soon as I find a shade of blue that he can be content with ... I'll begin his socks that won't fit him long enough to be worn out ...

Christmas Day '06

2006-12-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

I am trying really hard to be happy ... to be thankful for everything I have ... And I am thankful ... for my family, my kids ... my job, my friends ...

Still ... it's been a rough month ...

My best friend in the world passed away at the age of 67 ... She was a co-worker of mine ... but she was so much more than that ... She was a mom to me ... always had good advice to give ... maybe even a scolding every now and then ... lol ... And she was my best friend ... the one I told my secrets to ... We shared so much laughter ... so many tears ... and I've remembered her since her passing ... With much laughter and tears ...

I am so thankful that the Lord allowed us to be close, to share the friendship we had ... And though I miss her ... I know she is in a better place ... and that we'll meet again someday ...

The other thing that's made this month so hard is the ups and downs of the relationship that I've been in ... It's been more than this month ... it's been going on for the past 5 months ... But now ... it may be over for good ... Not because I want it to be ... I DEFINITELY don't want it to be over ... I love him with all my heart ... But I can't make his choices for him ... All I can do is try to show him that I'm here for him ... Want to be here for him always ... Try to show him how much I love and care for him ... Respect him ... and PRAY!

But it hurts ... I want so much to be with him ... want him to be in my life forever ... by my side ... and me always by his ...

I know that everything in life happens for a reason ... and I know we don't always know what the reasons are ... I know that God has a plan for everyone, everything ... And I pray every day for the patience and the faith to keep believing ... keep moving on ... Some days it's just really hard ...

If you happen to read this ... and have a few extra minutes ... I'd appreciate any prayers you can say also ...

Hurting ...

2006-10-08T19:22:00.000-06:00

Well ... I'm hoping that by writing here sometimes ... at least once in a while ... it will help me to get some of my feelings out ... help me sort through some things ... Don't really have anyone I can just go to, ya know?

I'm just so confused about the things that have happened over the last couple months ... I'm lonely ... but I don't deserve to be treated the way I have ... I know that much ...

I've just been asking God to hold me tightly in His arms ... and I know He is ... I know He knows every tear I've cried ... and I find comfort in that ...

I just feel like I've lost my happiness, though ... don't smile, laugh like I used to ... I know that change has to start with me ... and so I've been setting some goals for myself ... and I am trying really hard to look at things positively ...

Guess I just need a little time to grieve, too ... For the things I thought were there, that weren't ... for the person I thought was there, but wasn't ... and for the part of me that let myself be fooled ... even though I knew better ...

And I did know better ... I felt the pull at my heart telling me that know matter what I felt, my head knew something wasn't right ... I just wanted it so badly ...

Someday ... when the time is right ... I hope to find someone who really cares for me, appreciates me, respects me ... loves me ...

I Will Finish These Socks ...

2006-01-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

My Jawalker socks WILL be completed by Feb. 13 ... even though I only have the toes done so far ... and am doing the socks toe-up ...

I don't have a pic yet of the new Jaywalkers, but will try to get one over the next couple days ... I'm still disgusted with the fact that my finished Jaywalker sock is pathetic!!!!

Jaywalker ... Part II

2006-01-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

I am sooooo not happy with the way my first Jaywalker turned out .... :( Especially being that it was in the yarn that I've been wanting for my own pair of socks ... Maybe selfishness was the problem?

Here is a progress pic of the socks:

There will not, however, be a matching sock ...

I am still determined to make a pair of Jaywalkers by the February 14 deadline! I am definitely not a speed sock-knitter like some ... but I will finish my pair of Jaywalkers! I plan on starting them this afternoon, and will attempt them toe-up ...

Tagged ...

2006-01-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Well ... looks like I've been tagged by Lisa so .... here goes ...

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. Accounting Clerk
2. Administrative Specialist
3. Eligibility Technician
4. Newspaper Production Aide

Four Movies you could watch over and over:
1. My Family/Mi Familia
2. Ever After
3. Armaggedon
4. American Me

Four Places You Have Lived:
1. Rochester, TX
2. Lamar, CO
3. Sterling, CO
4. Greeley, CO

Four TV Shows You Love To Watch:
1. Cowboy U
2. That 70's Show
3. Forensic Files
4. Cold Case Files

Four Places You Have Been On Vacation:
1. Washington
2. South Dakota
3. Georgia
4. Iowa

Four Websites You Visit Daily:
1. Painted Knits
2. Stitches of Violet
3. Sockbug
4. sunnybook's yarns

Four Of My Favorite Foods:
1. Fried Okra
2. Pumpkin Bars
3. Tres Leche Cake
4. Diet Dr. Pepper

Four Places You'd Rather Be Right Now:
1. a cozy yarn shop
2. knitting socks with Nancy Bush, Lucy Neatby or Cat Bordhi
3. knitting socks with Lisa (we WILL conquer your fear of heels one of these days ...)
4. with my soldier ...

And as for tagging other bloggers ... If you feel so inclined ... you are tagged ... :)

I took a couple pics of my Jaywalker socks the other day, just waiting to get them from my mom's camera ... Maybe today ... And I managed to actually finish the first sock yesterday ... All I have left is to graft the toe ...

I'm not sure I'm completely happy with the fit, but I am not frogging the sock ... I used the cuff-down toe from Queen Kahuna's book ... but because of the extra stitches in this sock, I think I increased too many gusset stitches ... And I didn't even increase all the stitches I was "supposed" to ... Next pair of Jaywalkers (cuz I'm thinking there probably will be one) I'll make some adjustments ...

Jaywalker Peer Pressure

2006-01-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's exactly peer pressure ... but it doesn't help when every other blog I see has a pic of their Jaywalker socks in progress ... or completed ... So I had to start my own pair ...

I had actually started before Christmas ... but then my Jaywalkers decided to jaywalk ... to who knows where ... Actually, they were found tucked in a corner of a bedroom at my mom's house ... At least they hadn't accidentally been tossed out with Christmas wrapping paper and packages ... WHEW!

Anyhow ... I don't have a pic yet, but will soon ... I'm knitting them up in Mountain Colors Bearfoot in the Thunderhead colorway ... Beautiful! I'd been saving this yarn to make some really comfy socks for me ... and these will be them!

Playing Catch-Up ...

2005-12-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally got some pictures taken of some of the socks I knit ..

This is the Fidalgo Feet sock pattern knit up in Opal Uni-Solids #18. Unfortunately ... I only have one of the socks finished. The other one is half-way there ... but I knit these with a heel flap to carry the pattern down the heel ... and I HATE knitting heel flaps and picking up gusset stitches! I want new socks to wear, though ... so one day soon, I need to just finish the mate.

This is one of the pair I knit for my daughter. The pattern is Cascading Leaves from the Townsend Socks Knitalong ... Love this pattern! The yarn is some that I received in a bottle swap, and it was Kool-Aid dyed.

I know that these pics aren't great ... but I'm trying to just get back into posting again ...

And ... I have a confession to make ... I finally broke down and ordered some Woolie the Ram sock blockers from Chappy ... I had been wanting some for sooooo long! I hope to get them sometime this week ... Then I may have to do sock picture retakes ...

About Me ...

2005-12-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Lisa ...
All the things you (N)ever wanted to know ...

TEN random things you might not know about me
1. I love Classic Country.
2. I was born and raised on a farm/ranch.
3. I love small-town living.
4. I am loyal to a fault and, therefore, get hurt easily.
5. I wouldn't change that for anything.
6. I like to write poetry, but until last week, hadn't written anything in years.
7. My biggest fear is the fear of rejection.
8. I am very stubborn.
9. I hate the heat! It is always easier to warm up than cool down.
10. I try to find the best in everyone.

NINE places I’ve visited
1. Georgia
2. Montana
3. Nebraska
4. Kansas
5. Washington
6. Oklahoma
7. Texas
8. Iowa
9. Puerta Vallarta, Mexico

EIGHT ways to win my heart
1. Be honest.
2. Respect me and my kids.
3. Make me laugh.
4. Accept my friends.
5. Understand me.
6. Love me unconditionally.
7. Make my dad smile.
8. Believe in God.

SEVEN things I want to do before I die
1. Visit the Opal yarn factory in Germany.
2. Go on a safari in Africa.
3. Be a good role model for my children.
4. Make sure that the people I love really know I love them.
5. Knit a sweater.
6. Be comfortable with myself.
7. Find true love.

SIX things I’m afraid of
1. Rejection.
2. Not making a difference.
3. Letting my kids down.
4. Letting my family down.
5. Letting my friends down.
6. Depression.

FIVE things I don't like
1. Onions.
2. Dishonesty.
3. Infidelity.
4. Shopping.
5. Society's view of "perfection."

FOUR ways to turn me off
1. Lie.
2. Think you are "all that."
3. Disrespect my family and/or friends.
4. Be prejudice.

THREE Things I do everyday
1. Pray.
2. Check my e-mail.
3. Hug my son and tell him I love him.

TWO things that make me happy
1. Knitting while watching a movie, with my son cuddled up beside me.
2. Making people smile.

ONE thing on my mind right now
1. Second chances ...

Guess who?!?!

2005-08-29T14:47:00.000-06:00

Well ... I guess I was AWOL for quite some time ... I'll try to posting at least a little more often, but won't promise anything ... I hate to break promises ...

Still working on socks (of course) ... and just knit up and felted a little sheep from the Fiber Trends pattern this weekend.

If I can get my camera software to start working ... I'll try to post some pictures soon.

Isn't She ADORABLE!!!

2005-04-12T09:43:00.000-06:00

To order your very own knitting bear,
Click Here! :)

passcode is "avon"

Item# is 049-360

Spearfish Sock

2005-04-09T19:28:00.000-06:00

Finally! A picture of a FO! (Can one sock actually be considered an FO? ....)

Why Care?

2005-03-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

I know that I have a really bad attitude right now, but sometimes I wonder why I should even care about people/things. You try to be there for someone when hardly anyone else is, and they just blow you off.

Maybe I'm just too sensitive, but I get tired of being walked on too, ya know?

I need to just try and remember that to the world I may be just one person ... but to one person I may be the world. I can make a difference.

It's just hard to remember when you're hurting ...

Blue Skies

2005-03-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

Don't know why exactly, but I'm a little down today. I think it's cuz I'm at my office job. Go figure.

I want to send a big THANK YOU out to my Angel (SP4). I received a package from her last week that included a wonderful-smelling candle, a lovely windchime/suncatcher and two skeins of Lang Jawoll cotton. I have never tried this yarn before, but have been wanting, too. I want you to know just how much you brighten my days ...

Fixin' to go to lunch soon. Can't wait to get out of here for a while!

I Have An Announcement To Make ...

2005-03-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

I'm soooo excited! My buddy Lisa is actually knitting socks! I think that's AWESOME! Please stop by her blog and give her your support! :) She's a great knitter, a magnificent painter, a wonderful mom and a super person all-around.

I had my first Quiet Places party last night. It was a little "rough around the edges," but overall -- a lot of fun. Just getting together with a group of girls to kick back and relax can be awesome. No kids, no worries, just friends and fellowship.

Then, to top the evening off, I logged on to my computer when I got home and read an e-mail my Secret Pal 4 had sent. It definitely reinforced my belief that I'm doing the right thing in working part-time at my "previously full-time" job, and pursuing my Avon and Quiet Places careers. Thank you very much, whoever you are ...

Update ...

2005-02-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

I have got to start making blogging one of my priorities. I think it's good for me to get some thoughts out on "paper."

Well, pee-wee wrestling season has started again for us. This last Saturday was the first tournament, and Noah placed first. It's his third year of wrestling and he does really well. He's placed at every single tournament he's participated in, and has only gotten one 4th place. The rest have been 1st, 2nd or 3rd. Wrestling is probably my most-favorite sport, but the tournaments can be exhausting!

I'm still knitting away on socks. You know ... the mysterious ones that I never share pictures of! (I HAVE to rememdy that situation some day ....) I have about five pair I'm working on, but I also need to work up a couple pair of baby socks/booties.

I have several friends who are expecting soon, so I need to get my butt in gear. I've never made baby socks before. I'm thinking about a cute pattern in the Socks, Socks, Socks book. They're a cross between socks and booties, and have an interesting look to them. Very cute!

Well, I better get to work! More later. :)

Better Late Than Never ...

2005-02-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

1. Total amount of music files on your computer? Not too many. My computer has so much other stuff on it, I deleted a lot of music files a while back to give me a little more room. My computer was running so slow, I couldn't even burn them to CD before I zapped them. Gotta love dial-up ...

2. The last CD you bought was: Salvador - Con Poder

3. What is the song you last listened to before reading this message? Not exactly sure. But I know the song that keeps going through my head ... "Over and Over" -- Nelly w/Tim McGraw.

4. Write down 5 songs you often listen to or that mean a lot to you: "18 With A Bullet" - an oldie and an old boyfriend's favorite song (still think of him and miss him and would love to talk to him again ...); "Angel Baby" - oldie version reminds me of my homies; "End of the World" - Skeeter Davis, just love that song; "Oooh Child" - olid version, can't remember who sings it, though; "Return to Innocence" - Enigma, some of my friends say they still think of me when they hear this played.

5. What 3 people are you going to pass this baton to and why?
(I had filled this out, but when I published the post, something ate it!!! I'll fill it out again later!)

SP 4 Questionnaire

2005-01-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer high- and/natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
I am definitely not a yarn snob. But I LOVE sock yarn!!! :)
2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I can crochet ... and cross stitch ... and do plastic canvas. But I don't do any of these anymore. I'm an exclusive knitter now!
3. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
Flowery scents seem to bother me some these days. Other than that, I'm not allergic to anything. I love musky and/or spicy scents.
4. How long have you been knitting?
I've actually known how to knit for at least 15 years, but I didn't really start knitting until fall of 2003.
5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Not yet, but I'll keep you updated! ;)
6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
I like musky and/or spicy scents. I also like vanilla and pumpkin.
7. Do you have a sweet tooth?
Sometimes I do ...
8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
As I mentioned before, I know how to do many things, but am only focusing on knitting now.
9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I usually listen to Christian and Country music. My computer can play MP3s.
10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer?
I LOVE purple! If purple is not available, I tend to be drawn to deep colors ... navy, maroon, forest greens. I love the colors in the Mountain Colors Bearfoot colorways. Especially Thunderhead.
11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am a single mother of two. No pets right now (just my little monkeys!)
12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know)
I am in the process of reaching one of my goals: To have Avon has my full-time job, main income. Beginning in February I will be working out of the home only 3 days a week. (accountant's office)
13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
Mountain Colors Bearfoot, Wildfoote, Kroy, Interlacements
14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Does not apply. Love to try new things.
15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
I would like to do a sock in entrelec! Socks are always my obsession!!!!
16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Hmmmmm .... Socks!
17. What are you knitting right now?
Would it surprise you if I said socks? :) I'm also trying my hand at the Market Squares Bag ... my first attempt at entrelec.
18. What do you think about ponchos?
They don't really turn my head.
19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
Circular needles.
20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Bamboo or Addi-Turbos.
21. Are you a sock knitter?
You answer this one .... :)
22. How did you learn to knit?
My dad.
23. How old is your oldest UFO?
Right now, only a month or so. I recently went through my projects and frogged anything I hadn't worked on for a while and didn't want to finish soon.
24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?
Winnie-the-Pooh is my absolute hero!
25. What is your favorite holiday?
I think I enjoy all holidays!
26. Is there anything that you collect?
Monkeys & sheep. Oh, and sock patterns and yarn! :)

To LadyKnitz: Yes, I got your e-mail. Thanks so much for checking in to say "hi." I'm feeling quite well today. And I actually have a couple of hours to myself this afternoon. I'm off to do some knitting and watch a movie! Hope you have a good afternoon!

Adios Abuela!

2005-01-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

My grandma passed away Friday night, so I haven't been posting ... and probably won't this next week or so. Please keep me and my family in your prayers ...

Rise & Shine!

2005-01-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a quick post, just to check in. I hope to make it back later in the day, but we'll see.

I started my Market Squares bag this weekend (knit-a-long). It's the first time that I've ever attempted entrelec, and I must say ... it's sort of fun! I know I've seen a couple of patterns for entrelec socks, and I think I'll have to try them soon!

I want to send extra special thanks out to Lisa and Patti ... their friendship and comments have meant an awful lot to me over the last few months. Please know how much you are appreciated ...

Happy New Year!

2005-01-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

Okay. Breathe in ... breathe out ... I am going to be taking Simple Steps to enrich all parts of my life. This will include posting more regularly to my blog again. Even if it is only a few sentences a day.

I got the new book "Not Just Socks" yesterday. I think it's really great! I love socks (and there actually are a few basic sock patterns included), but I feel it's the perfect gift for the non-sock knitter, too! It's a way for any knitter to enjoy the wonderful assortment of available sock yarns.

Please Keep Me In Your Thoughts ...

2004-12-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with friends and family. My prayer for you is to also have a safe New Year.

Just wanted to check in since it's been so long. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. I hope to be back to posting more regularly soon!

This is a Test

2004-12-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

This is a test of the changes made to the layout.

CONGRATULATIONS!

2004-11-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

First of all, I'd just like to thank all of you for taking the time to visit my blog and sharing your thoughts/feelings. I really appreciate your time.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Unfortunately (fortunately?) I didn't eat too much this Thanksgiving. I hadn't been feeling well for a few days before, so I just couldn't enjoy things like I normally would have. (It sure sounds good now, though ...)

As for the contest: I'm sorry I'm posting late. I just didn't feel up to posting this weekend. We do have a winner though.

And the winner is ....

... ALL OF YOU!

I will be working on e-mailing each of you today, but if you read this before I get you e-mailed, please get me your mailing address. I'm not sure what all the prizes will be still (and, mind you, they're nothing spectacular), but I hope to get all packages in the mail this week.

I hope you had all fun with this idea. I hope to have another contest soon.

As for knitting, I'm still working on my Cascading Leaves socks from the Townsend Sock Knitalong (see button on left). I'm on the cuff of the second sock, and hope to have it finished this week. I'm also still working on the pair of camo socks for my son.

It's amazing how much I didn't feel like knitting this weekend. And sad, too. Since now I'm back at work and WISH I was home knitting. Go figure!

Let Us Give Thanks!

2004-11-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's been almost two weeks since my last post.

I definitely need to thank Kimberly for drawing my name in her recent contest for the new S&B Nation book. Love it! Thanks so much.

Also, I'm afraid that I never thanked Ann for the wonderful RAOK I received some time back. It included a knitting journal, ball of Sockotta, a package of hot chocolate and a card. Very sweet! It definitely made my day.

Lately, I've been in a little slump again. A little depressed at times. Wondering what I should be doing. For this reason, I've decided to make an effort to concentrate even more on the positive things in my life. I have so MUCH to be thankful for. My home, my kids, my family, my job .... Every morning that I wake up, every bird I hear singing, every laugh, every smile ....

Anyhow, I've decided to hold a contest. I'm not sure what the prize will be yet. And it will probably be a surprise until the recipient receives, but here's the deal:

If you would like to enter, please leave a comment telling me three things you are thankful for. Do a little soul-searching. What I'm hoping is that every one of you will benefit from this. I know there are many situations in life that can get in the way of our "happiness." But if we can all try to concentrate on the positive aspects, however small they may seem, just imagine how that can change our lives!

I will be taking "entries" until Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 25, 2004), and will announce the winner sometime on Friday.

I hope you all have a blessed day!

In the Knit of Things

2004-11-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

To some it may seem a little scary, but I bet I'm thinking about knitting or knitting-related subjects at least 75% of the time. WOW! There are much worse addictions, don't you agree?

Okay. So I took a vacation from the socks I was re-knitting. Instead, I'm working on the Cascading Leaves pattern by Jeanie Townsend. WONDERFUL lady! If you are into knitting socks at all, you just HAVE to check out this group: Townsend Socks Knit Along.

I'm using a yarn that I received in a bottle swap a while back. It's working up great. My daughter had picked out the yarn for socks for her, and I think she will be very happy with the final product.

I had an Avon booth at a craft show this weekend. I think things went very well. If you've ever thought about selling Avon, or if you just love to use their products yourself, click on my link to the left for more information.

One Nation, Under God ...

2004-11-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

I've read many blogs over the last couple of days where the author's thoughts on the election have been shared. Here is mine:

I voted for Bush. I believe he is a man of God. I believe he's made the best decisions that could have been made in the situations that have come up during the last four years. I believe that he is the right person to lead our country right now.

I must also say that, regardless of who was elected president, God is the one who is always in control. That's where I put my faith. Not in one man, one country ... but in God ...

Blah!

2004-11-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

That's what I feel about my blog. I really need to go out to mom's and use her digital camera.

This weekend I ended up splurging again. I decided, "What the heck! I already know how to knit socks on two circs, why not try the Magic Loop?" So I bought a 32" addi turbo size 2 and the Magic Loop book. And I also picked up the book Bags: A Knitters' Dozen.

My LYS had just gotten it in, and I just happened to see it as I was getting ready to check out.

Well, as soon as I got home, I just HAD to start on one of the bags. (I can't remember the name right now, though ... Will have to post that info later.) This summer I had picked up some yarn at Aurora Yarn Supply that I knew I wanted to knit into a bag. Yarn + perfect pattern = bag.

It's been a slow start to re-knitting the sock I frogged last week. It's been pretty stressful at home, so I just haven't had much relaxing knitting time. That and the fact that I've had a sinus infection since Saturday that's just been kicking my butt.

If anyone has any good ideas for rewards/punishments for a 12-year-old girl and a 6-year-old boy, I would definitely appreciate all comments. There has been a lot of change in our family over the last year or so, and its been hard on us all. But I am having a heck of a time getting my kids to obey me, and most mornings and evenings as of late have left much to be desired in the way of "there's no place like home ..."

Happy Halloween!

2004-10-28T08:26:00.000-06:00

No. I'm not totally crazy. With Halloween falling on a Sunday this year, the annual downtown trick-or-treat thing is scheduled for this afternoon. So this morning I was gathering up the vampire cape, teeth, face paint, fake blood to send off to school with Noah. The daycare he goes to is AWESOME about taking the kids to do extra things. And since the trick-or-treating starts at 3:30 p.m., this works out really well for me. Beings that I'll still be at work.

As for the appointment for my dad the other day .... The news was actually great! The testing they did showed there are NO neurological problems (before they had possibly thought dementia or the brain aging faster than normal). What he's dealing with is an extremely severe case of depression. But he has been doing better some days. He's even smiled a couple of times.

I really miss the way my dad was, but I'll always love him - no matter what.

I ended up frogging the whole sock I was working on the other day. I just could not pick the stitches up correctly. Stress + two fighting kids + an awful headache = totally frogged sock + sadness. I'm going to try to start the sock again tonight. Maybe even try to do two at a time. We'll see how that goes.

My fingerless gloves have had no progress. I still have one glove without a thumb.

If there is anyone out there interested in a possible holiday get-together for knitters in Colorado, I'd be glad to hear from you. I think this could be a lot of fun. Maybe do a little gift exchange. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I'm Ready For Some Good News ...

2004-10-25T08:23:00.000-06:00

Well, Dad has another doctor's appointment today. I'm going to go with mom and dad to this appointment, too. Hopefully, we should be getting the results back from more of the tests that he had taken in Cheyenne about a month ago.

If we can eliminate some possible causes for his depression, etc., that would be great! And if we can target causes, even better. It's just been so hard on mom and dad. And everyone else. Especially when you don't know what's causing the problems.

Anyhow, on the way to the appointment, I will be working (frogging) on a pair of socks for my mom. I turned the heel yesterday and did all the decreases ... Then realized I'd forgetten to work one row knit in between each decrease row! AAAGGGHHH! Guess I'll be in the pond for a while. Ribbit!

Still didn't get pictures up. Mom's in the process of putting a new computer up. Since she has the pictures I want, it'll be a few more days still, I'm sure.

Noah's eye's much better, but it's got that sickly greenish-yellowish color of fading bruises. At least it doesn't seem to be too sore.

Monday, Monday

2004-10-18T09:37:00.000-06:00

Well, the weekend definitely was not long enough.

I took the day off from work on Friday. My son had his first grade field trip to the Denver Zoo. And I rode the bus with him. To the zoo and back.

The day was cold, and it started to mist/sleet for the last hour or so we were there. Then, I forgot to bring along any cash, and all the other kids were getting cotton candy, ice cream cones, stuffed animals, etc.

BUT, it could have been a lot worse. (And I did get a little knitting done on the ride up.) I was still really, really glad to get home that evening, though.

The picture I posted yesterday is of my son. He's perched on a statue of a gorilla (though that's hard to make out in this photo). Whenever we go to the zoo, we always joke about going to visit my kids' cousins ... the monkeys!

2004-10-17T09:08:00.000-06:00

Monkey-ing Around

Look At Me Now!

2004-10-14T08:35:00.000-06:00

The new me:

You appear to be a Knitting Guru. You love knitting
and do it all the time. While finishing a piece
is the plan, you still love the process, and
can't imagine a day going by without giving
some time to your yarn. Packing for vacation
involves leaving ample space for the stash and
supplies. It can be hard to tell where the yarn
ends and you begin.

What Kind of Knitter Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

I had never quite thought about myself like this before ... but I like it! :)

I Love Fall!

2004-10-13T08:06:00.000-06:00

I really do love Fall. I love the cool temperatures, the sometimes cloudy and overcast days (like today), and I like to see if get dark earlier. Call we weird. It takes all sorts, though, huh?

Last night I meant to get some pictures up of my mitten in progress and my weekend purchases from Lambspun. However, Time did not allow that to happen. Imagaine that! My goal is to have something uploaded at least by this weekend.

Haven't really had much knitting time the last couple of days. Too much going on with the kids. HOWEVER .... on Friday I will be traveling to the Denver Zoo with my son for his field trip. AND ... I will be riding the bus. SO ... (if I don't go insane!) I plan on getting a bit of knitting done during travel time. Hopefully ...

Rather Be Knitting ...

2004-10-11T09:25:00.000-06:00

I think this could very easily be the title of my entry almost every day!

The trip to Lambspun was great. It was fun to meet Lisa, and she had a HUGE surprise for me! I had told her I'd been wanting to buy a ball winder, and had planned on getting one this weekend. When I was getting ready to pay, she grabbed the ball winder from the counter and told me I couldn't get that. WHAT???!!! That was one of the things I'd definitely been wanting to get. She then preceded to tell me she'd already gotten me one. I 'bout fell over.

That is one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for me, and I would not have expected it in the least. Thank you sooooo much, Lisa!

The other purchases I made at Lambspun included two skeins of Brown Sheep Wildfoote in Symphony (yummy!), a darning egg for kitchenering my socks and a pattern for felted fish. This pattern was actually designed by the owner of my LYS in Sterling, Fiberspace. My son decided I just had to get that pattern on Saturday, though.

After paying for everything, the four of us (Lisa and her daughter, and me and my son) went to Wendy's for a quick lunch.

It was so nice to actually get together with someone close to my age who has some of the some hobbies as I do! Lisa, hope we can do it again sometime!

I also made a quick stop in Greeley at Wild 'N' Wooly. I'd never been to this shop before, never knew it was there. Cute place! And it has quilting stuff, too. So next time we're in Greeley, my mother and I can both be happy with stopping in there.

Today is also my dad's 56th birthday. Happy Birthday, Dad!

(Im)Patiently Awaiting Tomorrow ...

2004-10-08T11:42:00.000-06:00

Lambspun here we come! I've only visited there once ... and can't wait to go back tomorrow morning. With any luck, we'll find a couple other little yarn/knit shops around Fort Collins to check out, too.

On my "must-have" list, I already have a ball winder, a darning egg (or something of the sort, to help when kitchenering my socks) and a few more row counters. If I would stick to having only 2-3 projects going at a time, I wouldn't need more counters ... but, just in case ...

My son loves to take road trips. My daughter doesn't. Therefore, he will be my traveling companion, and she will probably be spending most of the day with Grandma & Grandpa.

For those of you who are willing, please keep my parents in your prayers. My dad has had a rough past year. He's been dealing a lot with depression, and his whole life has changed. It's really hard on my mom, too. Maybe I'll elaborate on the situation some time, but it makes me very sad, too.

Anyhow, back to happy thoughts ... It's Friday ... gonna knit tonight ... then go spend more money to buy more things to knit tomorrow. What could be better than that? :)

Happy Day!

2004-10-06T13:57:00.000-06:00

Well, it is. I'm making new friends. Ditched work for a little bit this morning (to go to the yarn store!).

Have a trip planned this weekend to go to Lambspun (Fort Collins, CO) with Lisa, my new knitting buddy who I've met through the RAOK and I Knit A Mile High web rings.

And I've learned how to get the link to another site into my posts. (See "Lisa" above.)

Now ... how cool is all that?

I HAD to buy some more circs to work my mittens on. I'd been using 16-inch addis for them and a pair of socks for my son ... but my hands hurt! The tips are just too short, and they rub my hands wrong. It's just not as as enjoyable to work on your project like that .... "Knit, purl, ouch! Knit, purl, ouch!"

This is me - Golden!

2004-10-04T09:57:00.000-06:00

What Color Is Your Brain?

And it has started out to be a good morning. Even for a Monday.
I was RAOKed for the first time this morning! Thanks to Lisa Y for a $5 online gift certificate to Adagio Teas. Very cool. Also, got a couple of e-cards. This is going to be so much fun.

Started my mittens for the I'm in Glove KAL. Using Opal Mosaic in the purple pattern. These are my first pair of mittens, so I'm very excited about them.

Any help on creating my very own button would be much appreciated. Haven't had a lot of time to look around for instructions, yet.

Good day to all RAOKers!

2004-10-03T14:25:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah! I'm in, and I feel honored. Can't wait to start getting to know other members of this ring.

I've been in a bit of a slump this last week or so. Need to keep myself busy. Try to update and enhance my blog more. (Doggone digital camera ...)

Today I've been working on the camo socks for my son. Going to put a short row heel in instead of following the pattern exactly. Hope this will work well for him.

Also, I'll probably start my Shawa mittens today. Just need to find the right yarn to use for them. Depends a lot on who will be the recipient of these mittens. They will be my first pair, so I think maybe they'd be most comfortable in my jacket pockets .... :)

Got It!

2004-09-30T11:13:00.000-06:00

Yes! Thanks to Libby and jofrog, I now have a clearly visible "I Knit A Mile High" webring button. Now if I can just squeeze in time to add more things to my blog. And see if I can get my digital camera working ... Or at least find the connection for my scanner ...

And I think I've found a pattern that I want to use to make my first pair of mittens. It's a pattern from the Pattern-A-Day Knitting Calendar 2005. (Like I was really going to wait until 2005 to open it.) The pattern is called Shawa Mitten, and it's done on two circs.

Trial & Error

2004-09-29T16:32:00.000-06:00

I finally got a Knit a Mile High button on my site, but I don't think the image shows up. The "help" section on this site leaves much to be desired in helping me! :(

Last night, I started a pair of socks in camo Bernat Hot Sox for my son. He's six and is really into either soldier or cowboy stuff right now. The pattern I'm using is just the Bernat socks leaflet that I picked up somewhere.

Still waiting for my next SOTM package to arrive. It's so exciting! Like Christmas every month, all year long.

Where to go from here ....

2004-09-28T08:58:00.000-06:00

I love small town living. Don't get me wrong. But I would LOVE to be closer to a LYS and groups of knitters! I feel a great emptiness without this!

I'm trying to read some blogs and get ideas. (Sneeking into the sites when my boss is locked away in her office ... :) Any comments would be greatly appreciated! I've never done this before (blogging) and need all the help I can get!

Right now, I have several projects going. Almost finished with one SOTM sock in Opal from Fiber Nooks & Crannys. Just need to Kitchener the toe. Don't know if I'll start the next one right away, though. I've happily anticipating several other sock kits. Better wait to see which one needs my attention the most! :)

Also, I've been wanting to try my hand at some Fair Isle knitting. Hoping to start some gloves/mittens soon. Just need to find the right pattern and yarns.
I do my sock knitting on two circs, and would like to do my mittens/gloves the same. Any advice here would also be appreciated.

Well, off to read a few more blogs before boss catches me! :)

Today is the first day of the rest of my blog ....

2004-09-21T08:09:00.000-06:00

Well, here I am. Though I've thought about it for some time, I am now actively pursuing a blogging lifestyle.