Yarnista

Knitting, felting and Gardening makes one happy Mum!

2009-06-07T17:14:00.000-07:00

I spent a lovely afternoon with my sweet friend Lucille wet felting. She is the best teacher ever! I made this scarf for my Mum from a kit I bought at Rhinebeck a few years ago.

This delphinium is blooming in the garden right now. I love this shade of blue. Hopefully there will be a few more blooms.

I had to include some cute pictures of the kiddos. Alli modeling her knit pants I made for her and playing with a stacking toy I snagged a tag sale today. Ryan with his favorite past time reading. He worked hard with Dad this weekend planting and raking the garden.

Alli's Very First Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-28T18:08:00.000-07:00

This time last year Mommy was going out of her mind hoping to meet our little baby girl. I can't believe how fast the past year has went by. Ms. Alli has been taking her first steps for about two weeks now. She is such a dear sweet soul and makes all of us so very happy. She wakes us up with the biggest smile and loves to laugh.

We had a party for her Bis Nonna and Alli last weekend. She loved all the attention with her cousins crowding around her. I love this last picture with her contemplating what to do with her cake! She didn't do the traditional dive in she very carefully tasted it and then her cousins helped her out. In the first pic she has the cutest expression which I wasn't able to upload zoomed in. We will have another wee party for her this weekend, more pictures to follow. Thank you to all our friends and family.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T09:11:00.001-07:00

Why must you do this to me?

Crawling on Chewy my favorite activity

Firecracker baby sweater

Sea gull lace hat with beads

I made this for a teacher at work I love whose grandaughter

was recently diagnosed with cancer

Here's our little Easter bunny this morning, this oh so cute bunny hat was made by my bff Lucille. There's actually a little knitting content here as well. Ms. Alli is keeping us busy she stood on her own for the first time today and used the potty yesterday. I can't believe how cold it is today, hopefully we have warmer weather coming soon.

Off to finish my presentation for grad school. Love to everyone.

Dada & Alli

2009-03-29T08:44:00.001-07:00

Just a quick post to satisfy some people who are demanding an update with pictures of Alli. ( I won't mention any names!) Mommy's working hard on a paper for her ecosystem class and entering grades for school today. Thank goodness it's a rainy day outside.

Dada took Alli for a walk in the woods recently and of course Freddy cat had to tag along.

I'll be posting more pics soon of last night's scissor squad partay. It was so great to see everyone. I'm so thankful to have such a warm wonderful circle of friends in my life. More soon, must work on paper, must work on paper!

Going to Grandma's House

2009-02-22T16:15:00.001-08:00

Alli with Grandma Martha

Annie washing Alli's face!

Allison went for a lovely visit at Grandma's house today. She had fun playing with Grandma's train set and all the little animals with it. She also had plenty of kisses from Grandma's doggies, Belle and Annie. Alli really loved watching the two little guinea hens outside the window pecking on the glass too.

I can't believe how the time has flown by, she is almost 9 months old already. I went shopping for her Easter dress yesterday and it hit me that she's not a little wee baby anymore, it's hard to believe. Ryan had fun trip to visit his Grandma Marilyn and Grandpa Tom. He had lots of tall fish tales to tell. One involved catching a couple of sharks!

Le Slouch Beret est fini!!

2009-02-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

Finally some knitting related content! Here's a slouchy beret I just finished last night. I liked how it turned out and am planning to make another for my bff.

Pattern: Knit one magazine winter 2007

Yarn: worsed weight acryclic I had kickin' around

Time to complete: approx. 2 hours on the drive to Boston, at work, and at wrestling practice

Chunei cuteness!

2009-02-05T15:10:00.000-08:00

Alli's chunei has been a life saver the past two days that she's been under the weather. She certainly doesn't look sick in this picture. I was able to catch up on some much neglected house work. Ryan insisted that I not throw out Daisy's old chair so for now it stays.

We're in for a little cold snap so Ry went to work splitting the last of our wood this afternoon. Here's hoping we don't need the woodstove much longer!

Lia, Alli and Boston baby!

2009-01-25T07:25:00.000-08:00

I hate how blogger messes up the order of pictures anyways here's a picutre of my girlfriend Cara's beautiful new baby Lia. Alli and Lia are going to be great friends! Lia is doing so well and Cara is such a great new Mommy.
Lucille and I just got back from a great trip to Boston where we took a class with the creator of Zumba, Beto Perez. Lucille's Mom even got to give him a kiss that we missed because we were getting the car. It was the first time I've seen Boston and Lucille was a great tour guide. Her Aunt even danced on stage with Beto and I'm kicking myself that I didn't have my camera!

Stash sale

2009-01-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

Mommy is selling off some of Alli's diaper stash with exception of the lovely Sarah's diapes. Any reasonable offer will be considered. I have them posted on Mothering, and Diaperswappers. These are pics of the kissaluvs, and thirties and a stack of chinese prefolds.

Visit with Grandma

2009-01-04T18:22:00.001-08:00

Wee Allison had a really nice visit with her Grandma after New Year's. Alli got to play and have her Grandma sing to her. She also got a new wood rattle she loves and a pretty little dress. Mommy and Grandma perused Saratoga Springs and had some nice meals together. Mommy is hoping we can spend April vacation in our homeland Canada. Have to teach Alli the Canadian traditions you know!

Have a Very Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T17:20:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday. Little Ms. Alli enjoyed our trip out to cut down our tree. She enjoyed watching her big brother attemp to cut it down for a good while. I'm so happy just to be home for a time enjoying all of its comforts.

I recently finished a lace leaf beanie which came out very cute. I didn't get a pic before I gave it away but plan to make another. I taught one of my kids how to finger knit a few weeks ago so today I had the office call her and loaded her up with a big ball of yarn and magazines, which I felt so good about. One of the other teachers told me she has a really hard life, Mom is probably an addict, all that junk. I'm so happy I did something to help someone else hopefully. I told her after the break I will spend time to teach her how to make anything she wants.

Love to all our wonderful family and friends.

Happy Gobble Gobble Day!

2008-11-27T17:34:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving Day. We had a lovely day the boys split wood in the morning while I cooked and then we took a nice family walk through our woods and stream. I tried out a new recipe from Chamomile, wild rice pilaf which I think turned out pretty good. Alli loved the sweet potatoes the best. The cousins are extending the fun and having a sleep over at our place tonight, they have requested apple waffles for the morning.

I finally finished this hat for Alli, I made up the pattern on my own not too bad. Hopefully I will soon get some other projects done. We got this picture today and we couldn't get her to smile but it's still a nice one. She was a little tired out and will probably sleep well tonight. She is such a happy wee soul, we are truly blessed. I brought her to school with me yesterday and my kids couldn't get enough of her, they all wanted to hold her of course.

Looking forward to the rest of the weekend for some serious R & R. Love to everyone!

Bear mountain and the Alli Bear!

2008-11-11T17:21:00.001-08:00

Today Ryan and I both had off school so we took a trek up to Bear Mountain with our little Alli Bear. Ry's bud John came with us too. John We had so much fun and the boys were really proud of themselves. John took some hilarious video footage. Ms. Alli rode along and was a real trooper. When we reached the summit it was very cold and windy so we didn't stay long. I wish we had of gotten some better pictures.

Bear Moutain is the highest peak in the state and from it you can see New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. I hope we can do it with Daddy in the spring.

The Angry Itsy Bitsy Spider

2008-11-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

Help little Alli!

2008-10-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

Alli needs your help in her walk to defeat ALS. She will be strolling along in her sling with Mommy on Oct. 27th. Go to the ALS walk website and look up Alli's strollers if you'd like to help.

Ms. Allison just started eating a little nana's and sweet potatoes. She is s so happy all the time, even first thing when she wakes up in the early mornings with us. She will be 5 months old very soon, hard to believe. Mommy's been enjoying school, today was an awesome autumn day outside with the kids. Not much knitting going on lately working on a lace hat right now. Hopefully making it to Rhinebeck this weekend, yey!

Starbucks baby!

2008-09-28T11:49:00.001-07:00

Watcha lookin' at lady!

Must have coffee!
Mmmmm latte's are so good!
When can we come again, Mom?

Sorry it's been awhile since I've updated! Little Alli is doing very well. My good friend Trudy just came home and we get to visit her this Thursday! Cathy and I got together at Starbuck's yesterday and had a nice visit. Ryan went on a church trip this weekend and had a great time.

A dear friend of mine from when I lived in Groton passed this past week and we went to her service on Friday. It was so nice to see her family and spend time with them.

Not much on the knitting front, making a wee hat for Alli and will post pictures when I'm done. School is good, I've been enjoying the kids lately so that's always a happy thing. Love to all!

Flowers

2008-09-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Oh Canada!

2008-08-31T05:22:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome trip to Canada to see Grandma and Grandpa last week. We got lots of R&R and really enjoyed our time with Gram and Gramps. Mom and I took a drive up to see "Hoods" and see Grandma and Grandpa McNicol's gravesite. My mom recently was given the diaries of my Great Uncle which were found at an auction sale and she let me have them to read! They are so interesting from 1935, about all that was happening on the farm.

Mommy also started her first week back at school. Of course it was hard leaving our little doll but she seemed to fare pretty well. She made my day with her big smiles every morning this week. School is the same old not much different there. Pumping worked out well and I am so thankful for that. Please keep my girlfriend Trudy in your thoughts and prayers, she recently had an accident of which she has a spinal cord injury.

Proud Daddy

2008-08-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post here pretty busy here getting ready for a big road trip to see Grandma in Canada. We went to a wedding recently and Alli did great! She even hung out with Aunty Cathy so Daddy and I could dance. Ry is back and we're heading out today for school supplies, seems like every year the list gets a little longer. I've decided to go back to work so Momma's been busy pumpin' milk every day. Love to all.

Visit with Grandpa

2008-07-28T15:12:00.001-07:00

Alli, Ryan and I had a nice trip to visit Grandpa and Patti. The weather was nice and we did lots of swimming and biking. Alli liked Grandpa's pool because the water was much warmer than here. Grandpa and Patti really enjoyed seeing Alli and of course Ry too.

We made a trip out to Bonnie Springs. Ryan loved seeing all the animals, Alli slept through it all. I knitted a shawl on size 35 needles for Dad's office manager. I've been working at getting in better shape, lost 10 more lbs and feeling good. The garden made lots of progress since we've been gone will take a picture soon.

More cuteness

2008-07-16T08:49:00.001-07:00

Excited to go to the beach!
Ry and Steve after battling waves all day

One Happy Little Lady at her Aunty Lucille's

Lucille took this oh so great picture of Alli this past weekend. There must be something about being an art major and the ability to take great photos, all of the pictures Lucille has taken of her have been great. Or maybe it's just the simple fact that Lucille is such a great person therefore Alli likes to smile for her.

We had a really fun time at the beach up in Rhode Island yesterday. Ryan thoroughly enjoyed getting beaten up by the huge waves. The rip tide was so huge later in the day we weren't allowed to go in past our knees.We met up with Cathy and her husband and had a nice sunny day. They had us back at their house for a lovely dinner. Poor Dad had to listen to us snoring trying to stay awake himself driving home. Hopefully we'll make it up there one more time before the summer is over.

Catchin a smile and Momma's got a new do!

2008-07-11T14:34:00.001-07:00

This picture won't download horizontally!
But you see the pretty smile
You try to get smile, I give you my tongue! Momma's new do!

Little Ms. Allison has been smiling up a storm these days but it's not so easy to get a picture of it! We are going to get a camcorder soon and then we won't have that problem. She had an outing this week with Grandma to visit her friends then to lunch. She slept all through lunch and smiled for her visit.

Mommy couldn't take seeing her roots grow in anymore so she decided to do a home dye job! I think it came out pretty well and the 6 bucks is a heck of a lot better than 100$. The garden has some gorgeous sunflowers and punkins are getting huge leaves. Had our ob check up today and she suggested using bc, I wanted to laugh after all we went through to have Ms. Alli. We are going on a trip to Rhode Island to hang out at the beach on Monday, yipee!

Just when we thought the presents were done coming!

2008-07-01T14:45:00.000-07:00

Grandma Nowacki's beautiful quilt for Alli

I wish I could smile this big first thing in the mornin'
Sleeping is still our favorite activity!

Grandma Martha made this beautiful quilt for Ms. Allison. It is so pretty and even has an inscription on the back of it for her. Allison will have it to give to her children someday. Grandma Martha worked very hard to make it just perfect. It looks lovely on the wall in her bedroom.
Just when I thought all our great family and friends were done giving us gifts, we received a big beautiful package from my cousin Kirk and his family today. I hope that we can go visit them one of these summers so Alli and Ryan can meet their cousins.

Snappin turtle and swing time

2008-06-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

We woke up to this snapping turtle in the back of the house. Ryan tried to get a picture of it, but was scared to get too close to her. I think she was looking for a place to lay her eggs. Last year we had little babies on our patio and Ry and Steve have two of them in our living room. I hope they consent to giving them up before they are this size.
This is little Alli looking like a pissed off little elf as Steve said the other day. She gets over tired sometimes and then commences a little crying before she falls asleep. She likes her swing and it usually puts her to sleep. Today we are venturing out to the farmer's market and a ball game tonight.

Allison is getting bigger already

2008-06-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

Bella and Fred enjoying the top step

" I know I'm a cutie"

My arm kinda looks like a boob but it's not!
Hmm.... what trouble can I get into when

I'm only 2 weeks old
"Okay Mom put that camera down and

feed me already!"

Ms. Allison is getting bigger already! I haven't taken her to Aunt Laura's office yet to weigh her in but I think she just looks bigger. We had a big outing today to sign some papers for work and then on to my school to see a few of the people who supported Mommy this past year.

I peaked in a few of the classrooms and the kids went nuts to see her. It was nice to see them so excited. Allison did very well and slept through everything. Today was their last day of school so they were just hangin' out.

Daddy and Grandpa were working on the steps this weekend up to the solar water heater, in all this humidity. Grandpa sure is in great shape.

Knitting night is here tomorrow night, yey! Alli and I can't wait to see everyone.

This is what we do a lot of

2008-06-12T06:04:00.001-07:00

This is what we both like to do a lot of lately! Alli's been smiling a lot too just haven't captured a picture of it yet. She's going on an outing today to visit Nonna, her great grandma. Then my good buddy Sarah is coming by for a visit. She is such a good girl, mommy is very lucky. She loves her little bouncy chair, it is our centerpiece for the table at dinner time.

Cloth diapering is turning out to be pretty simple. I was worried at first until I got the hang of it. There are certain types I bought I definitely prefer. The prefolds seem to wash up the best out of everything.

The garden is doing very well, so far we've had collard greens, radishes, lettuce and kale. I will take some pictures of it soon. On the knitting front I'm going to start a few new projects as thank you gifts.

How can you resist her?

2008-06-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

ready to go for Aunt Ellen's pool
Beautiful flowers sent for her arrival
Big brother Ryan's (center) concert

Little miss Allison is doing very well and so is the rest of the family. Grandma from Canada is here for a visit this weekend. She took big brother down to Mystic today to give him some special time with her. Mommy has figured out she can nurse and knit at the same time, yipee! The boppy pillow is definitely getting a lot of use.

Daddy's been working hard all week. Today's project is building steps up to the hill in back for a solar water heater. We are having a serious heat wave here so I'm a little concerned about him sweating so much in the sun.

Big thank you's to everyone for the support, cards and presents. Allison is one lucky little girl to have so many people who love her.

Angel Allison

2008-06-03T14:57:00.003-07:00

I'm afraid this blog may no longer be about knitting and gardening as someone has stolen the show here! We are so happy to have her home with us at last. She is doing so well and is showing her strength already.

She's finally here! Announcing Allison Martha Nowacki

2008-06-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

Allison is finally here! She was born May 31st at 10:08 pm. She weighed in at 8lbs 9 oz and 21 inches long. Big brother was there and was the best labor coach ever. Dad took some battle scars and did a great job too. Will write more soon. Enjoy the pictures!

40 weeks plus, waiting a little impatiently!

2008-05-24T07:14:00.001-07:00

Baby's room progress with Sarah's pretty homeade blankie (on pram)
Sweet hand sewn diapers by Sarah
Wool soaker recently finished in 100% wool
40 weeks + belly pic

So we've had a bit of a screw up on when our little one is arriving. It turns out my due date has been wrong all along and we were actually due May 22nd. When I left the fertility doc he told me to have the Ob doc figure out my due date and all along we thought it was the 15th. When I went past that date I decided to give the fertility nurse a call, come to find out they sent my ob a letter in November to state my date as the 22nd. I finally got all of this cleared up yesterday and am feeling much better about things. The great news is all of my tests have been just right and I'm feeling good. This Thursday we'll have an induction if she doesn't decide to make an appearance between now and then.

Mommy's getting a little impatient to meet her. I did a few more things in her room and have washed her diapers plenty! The doggies are getting lots of exercise with me. I unfortunately have a case of poison ivy from them walking in it alongside the road so they are going to be getting a nice bath today. The garden has lettuce, chard, herbs, eggplant, beans, peas, kale, and tomatoes planted so far. Do you think someone has had a little time on her hands? Hope everyone has a lovely long weekend.

3 more days until our due date!!!

2008-05-11T17:27:00.001-07:00

39 1/2 week belly pic, woa Momma!

Project: Baby Pinwheel Blanket
Yarn: Bamboo/acrylic blend by Bernat
Time to finish: a few months

Pretty flowers from my mum &Curly Purly soaker

Mixture of tulips from my garden

So, I was really hoping my next post would be about our dear little one but I guess she's just not ready to make an appearance as of yet. I tried out lawn mowing this weekend as a labor inducer but maybe that made her want to stay put. We had a lovely Mum's Day today, the men cooked for us and Mr.Steve made potato salad and some great eggplant caponata. My mum sent me some pretty flowers and Master Ryan had a sweet card for me.
I got lots of good stuff planted yesterday, some swiss chard, kale and different varieties of lettuce. I also finished a few knitting projects this weekend. Here's hoping our baby to be wants to meet us soon!

Little One's Room

2008-05-04T07:41:00.001-07:00

Room finishing (hard workin' Daddy)
Antique pram (Grandma & Grandpa)
Butterfly Mobile & Paper Flowers (Lucille)
Rocking Chair & Swing ( Patti)
Crib (Aunt Laura & Uncle Dave)

Dresser for your abundance of apparel (Grandma & Grandpa Nowacki)

Cradle which Daddy is afraid the kitties are going to sleep in!

Here's some pictures of the progress on the baby's room. We just need to put up the curtains now and get a nice rug for the floor. The first officially finished room in the house! Yey! Steve spent many a weekend cutting and finishing the trim on the windows and baseboards. Thank you to all our great family and friends who are helping us welcome our little girl home, I feel really blessed.

It's hard to believe our little girl will be here soon after the long road we have been on. I'm hoping it will culminate in a natural birth that goes quick! I'm going to try to work this week as long as I can get some zzz's at night, I think I'm up to it.

Ryan is going to be a great big brother. He's really excited and has been doing lots to help me out. He even asked me to show him how to put on a cloth diaper and has been pushing the pram around the house to try it out. Hopefully my next post is a picture of our little one!

36 weeks and counting!

2008-04-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

pansies in wire planter
row of tulips and little sweat peas started on trellis

36 week belly pic in baby's room

Sorry I haven't posted in a long time. We've been having camera difficulties. Here's a belly pic of me with only 3 1/2 more weeks to go! I can't wait for our little one to finally get here, these last days are dragging on too slow. It was so great to have this past week off school, lots of rest, time with friends and gardening.
Everything is going well except for some bad back pain. I went to see the chiropractor for the first time and went back to have accupuncture done. Both were good for me but difficult because I can't tolerate lying on my back for very long.
Ryan is so excited about the baby coming, when we went on the hospital tour he was literally jumping up and down. This weekend we got the final coat of urethane on the floors and trim and the crib is getting set up next. I don't think we'll use it much at first because we have a nice cradle set up in our room and she'll probably sleep in bed with us too.
I'm starting to knit a soaker for her cloth diapers today will post pics when it's done. We have lettuce, sweet peas, garlic and collard greens that overwintered coming up. I can't wait for that first mess o' greens. Thanks to all of you who have been so supportive and wonderful to us this past year.

going on 29 weeks!

2008-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

We're almost on the home stretch! Everything is going well, my second glucose test came back good. I really grew last weekend and am experiencing more swelling at this point so I really need to watch my water intake and salt. I'm having another ultrasound in 3 more weeks.

We had a nice amount of snow today, I was really hoping we would get some more before the end of winter. Snow day from school= lots of knitting time. I had a trying day at school yesterday so I was very thankful not to be there today. I'm really tired of the lack of respect that some of our kids have. I was actually crying, probably because of my increased emotional state. It just makes me sad sometimes to see how some of them are never going to get it. On a better note I'm almost finished with the baby's latest outfit, pictures to follow soon.

Itty Bitty Baby Set

2008-02-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

Pattern: Itty Bitty Nursery by Susan B. Anderson

Yarn: Rowan handknit cotton

Time to complete: 1 1/2 weekend

I just finished our dear little one's first full outfit! This was really simple to knit up all in garter stitch and the jacket is made in squares and rectangles. I can't wait to see it on her. I wish May would hurry up and get here!

Cabled fingerless gloves

2008-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

Pattern: my girlfriend Lucille's creation

Yarn: Nature arucania wool

Time to complete: forever! I finished these bad girls last year and just now weaved in the ends.

Sorry for the bad picture our digital camera is doing something funky with the color.

Baby room, Ry kicking -ss! and Week 27

2008-02-01T11:46:00.001-08:00

Our Master Ryan kicked some major butt and won second for the league tournament. He also had his band concert last week and it was so sweet. He played a litttle for Aunt Ellen last weekend and I was so impressed. He came up with a cute name for the baby last week, Allison. I threw in a picture of the baby room after we painted it. I had a hard time getting a good pic of the color, it's called yellow frost. I went down to Ikea and picked up some sweet girl's room stuff too.

My belly is growing just right for 27 weeks and the baby is measuring up too! I'm having a wee bit of swelling and tiredness but other than that am good and so excited. Steve and I were like little kids last night talking about how we can't wait till she gets here.

I got to stay home today as school was closed, yey! We had our teacher student basketball game yesterday and I was so irked because they didn't announce the girl's teams names and they only gave them 9 minutes playing time. I can't believe that kind of sexism still happens in the year 2008! I'd like to write an anonymous letter about how wrong it was from a parent's perspective. Enough gripin' hope all is well with everyone.

Happy New Year

2008-01-05T20:47:00.001-08:00

Great news, we had our anatomy ultrasound 2 days after Christmas and everything is how it should be! The doctor also confirmed that we are having a baby girl. Ryan came with us and was speechless watching the baby on the screen.
We just got home from a great day in the city. My mum was here to see a show for her store so we met up and had a lovely dinner in Little Italy. Steve and I spent the day roaming Central Park, Rockefeller Center and a few stores looking at baby things. It was great to see my mum even just for a short while. I've been exploring baby names since we got home on the internet. Leave a comment with name suggestions if you please. Hope everyone is having a good start to the New Year!

Joyeux Noel!

2007-12-16T12:19:00.001-08:00

Busy here at the Nowacki house getting ready for the big holiday. Ryan decorated the tree all by himself this year and had Steve and I cracking up last night when he asked us who Knowle is because one of the ornaments said Noel. We had fun cutting our tree, it just about touches the ceiling! I've been doing lots of crafting and knitting and will post pictures soon. I'm making scarves for all the neices and a few other relatives.
I have an ultrasound on the 27th to confirm but looks like we have a baby girl in our near future. It's been good to be back at school, never a dull moment. The kids have noticed how much I'm showing and one of them told me my belly is beautiful. That student is definitely getting an A!

Baby booties and my pretty bedroom

2007-11-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

Pretty New Bedroom done by Grandma

13 weeks baby bump!

Pattern: Natural Baby Knits Yarn: Cherry Tree Hill

It's been a mighty long time since I've updated this here blog. There's been lots going on here at the Nowacki house. I had a short stay in the hospital and a lovely visit from my mum. We had a very sad loss of one of our twins but the other baby is doing well and growing just as she should.

My mum came when I had some trouble and it was such a blessing to have her here. She cooked up a storm and prettied up our bedroom. The best part is a beautiful lamp made by a glassblower back home. I love its reflection on the wall.She also spoiled Mr. Ryan to the max. The went out for quite the adventure to the Toy Store, when they couldn't find it in Danbury Ry told her trust me Grandma Waterbury isn't far away. I guess kids will do what it takes when it comes to having grandma's spoil them.

I've also had some nice visits with some great friends Mary, Lucille and Trudy. I love having company so if anyone else wants to stop on by and knit or have tea and chat just give a holla.

I'm feeling good now and have a nice baby bump as you can see in the picture. I had my last visit with the fertility doc last week and was sad to say goodbye because everyone was so nice there. According to the chinese calendar it's a girl and I feel as though it is but in a few weeks we will hopefully find out on ultrasound. I made these baby booties a few weeks back, I really like the red color. I'm currently working on a sweater for my mum to take down South with her in the Spring. The pattern is a little tricky,I'm hoping to get it done soon.

I'm it!

2007-09-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot with all that's been going on that my ultracreative friend Mary www.scribblenation.typepad.com, has tagged me for this meme.

Link to your tagger and post these rules.
2. Share 7 facts with you: some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post and list their names (linking to them).
4. Let them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment at their blogs.

Facts about me:
The Random and Weird!

1. I hate bright lights. Our house needs lots more lighting fixtures so for now we have light bulbs with no covers in their place. It's always a thing with Steve and I because I hate it when he puts them all on so I'm constantly turning them off!

2. I learned to knit when I was 10 then never did it again until 3 years ago. My grandma taught me and I never caught the bug like I have now.

3. I never wanted to be a teacher. As a kid I used to fly to see my Dad every summer and I always thought I wanted to be a flight attendant. They were always so nice to me, one time I was stuck overnight at an airport and I got to stay the night with some that spoiled me rotten.

4.I met my husband country line dancing. I went with some girlfriends to the Cadillac Ranch in Southington and spotted Mr.Steve towards the end of the evening. I went straight up to him and asked him to dance with me, I am usually never that gutsy. Then one of my friends ran out to the parking lot to get his phone number!

5.I fell off a skateboard when I was 10 and cracked my 2 front teeth. My mum and step dad were dating at the time and my step sis was babysitting me. I decided to take off on her skateboard down the driveway and landed on my teeth. I looked like Dracula for the weekend until they could be fixed and hurt like heck!

6. I hated snakes as a kid. My grandma and mum were always terrified of them so then I was too. A few years ago I went to a nature center and they wrapped a big long snake around my shoulders and that beat my fear.

7. I dressed up for my first day of bootcamp. When I left for my Navy bootcamp in Orlando,Fl my mother suggested I not wear a skirt and I insisted on it. The next morning standing at attention at 4 am, the company commander asked me where I was from. I replied,"Canada, sir." He said "No wonder you're dressed for a goddam tea party!"

7 other people I'm tagging. This is the hard part I don't think I can make the 7 sorry Mary.
1. My friend Kerry at www.kerrysknits.blogspot.com
2. The lovely Christine at http://www.iknit2.typepad.com/
3. Tammy at www.deputyknittersblog.blogspot.com
4. Sarah consider yourself double tagged at www.scissorina.com

The second time is a charm!

2007-09-13T05:46:00.001-07:00

Can you tell I had a difficult time trying to scan their picture and upload it? At least you can get the idea of what they look like.

Our second go at IVF was a freaking success!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I still can't hardly believe it. September 1st we had 2-8 cell embies transferred back to mommy. We had the official blood test yesterday and it's positive with an hcg level of 86. A normal range at 4 weeks is anywhere between 9-120. We are all very excited. Ryan wanted to tell it to everyone in his world. We won't know for a few weeks if it'll be twins. The doc said if the number is low you can pretty much rule out twins but if it is high it's not a guarantee. I go back tomorrow for another hcg level.

I developed something called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome so I'm pretty uncomfortable and in pain. But the pain has been getting better and I'm going back to see the naturopathic doc so she can do more accupuncture with me. I basically have an abdomen full of fluid and I look like I'm 7 months pregnant. The symptoms tend to get worse if you are preggo. They checked me yesterday and there is a whole lotta fluid but not to the point where I have to have it drained in the hospital.

My big bosses at work are not too happy because they have no sub for my co teacher and now I'm not there either. I tried to work Monday and Tuesday but it was just too much. I had no patience for the kids and had them by myself because of having no sub. So the doc said to stay home at least until Monday. They'll just have to deal with it!

FO,self indulgence and IVF update

2007-08-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

Saratoga Shrug

Pattern: Saratoga Needlworks

Yarn: Adirondack yarns cotton, colorway chili peppers

Time to complete: give or take 3 months

Here's a shrug I finished recently, I bought the yarn at the Knit Cafe in NY city last year at the Knit out. I got the pattern free in Saratoga Springs last summer. I had a difficult time getting the collar to fit correctly, it was way too tight so I frogged it back and used some huge needles.

Steve and I are in our IVF cycle now and things are going well. I'm feeling 100% better than in March and on ultrasound this morning I have 36 follicles. Which have the potential for a whole lotta eggs baby! The retrieval will likely be early next week. The doc says it looks like we'll be able to do a 5 day transfer which greatly increases our odds. I'm also doing accupuncture before and after the transfer.

I have been practicing a little self indulgence lately doing what I want, taking naps and best of all I had a massage this morning. It was absolutely the best thing I have done for myself ever. Will update soon, keep your fingers crossed!

UD Party and Garden Eye Candy

2007-08-20T13:30:00.001-07:00

Steve invited a few friends over from UD this past weekend and we had a bangin' time. They are all younger than us and a lot of fun. A few of us, (not me) played a lil' drinkin' game which I have never seen before it was freaking hilarious. I hope they come back when they are home at Christmas.

I threw in some pics of my garden. The lovely green stuff is baby bok choi, a pretty dhalia, lil' watermelon that creeped into Mr.T's territory. So far Mr. T hasn't devoured said melon but time will see, Steve said maybe he's just waiting until it's ripe!

Canada, my home sweet home

2007-08-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Just got back from a great trip up to dear sweet Canada. Everything and everyone are so beautiful up there. We had as Ryan would say a really "sick" time with the family. My mom's two stores are doing great and look so pretty.

One thing I noticed was how many people just enjoy the day, sit on their porch with their lovie and smile. You don't see that all that often in Connecticut.

Mom and Tom have 2 new kayaks that we really enjoyed. The best was out in the lake is another hidden lake that was lovely to paddle through.

Ryan had an expert fisherman who lives next door take him out and shared his secret fishing spot. Grandpa and Grandma tried to get it out of him but he wouldn't give it up. They caught two bass which we fried up and had for breakfast and they were oh so yummy!

Cabled Bag

2007-06-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

Pattern: courtesy of LYS Knottygirl, Fairfield,Ct

Yarn: Debbie Bliss cashmerino aran bulky

I just finished this cabled bag up for my dear Patti. She requested I make her one for her birthday back in February, I'm just a little late, eh! Once I got done to it the knitting went really quick. I'm not very comfortable sewing the lining in but I did an okay job. Hope she likes it! In the lining picture the bag is hanging from my purple pole beans with some lovely sunflowers in the background. We might have beans by the end of the week.

Bleu

2007-06-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

So the debate went on and this morning when DH left he pulled back up the driveway to inquire which sofa cover was I going to get? Then his next words were not the blue one. Well, Master Ryan and I ventured to the lovely IKEA store and guess what..................the only other color they had in stock was blue! So blue it is, I think it is a nice contrast to all the green outside our windows. I'm done obsessing over a silly couch color. It's probably not the best choice avec les animaux mais c'est la vie!

Le Sofa en Rouge Oui ou Non?

2007-06-28T17:32:00.000-07:00

Here at maison du Nowacki we finally got our first real couch. Now the dilemna is what color should it be? Ryan and I chose the red slipcover and the man of the house is not feelin' it. I said " But, red is the color of love sweetheart"and he said "ya now we look like we've got an orgy room. "

I had seen a red couch on a blog awhile back that I thought looked lovely so that's why I chose red. Now I'm thinkin' maybe it really doesn't suit our house. So please if you read this leave a comment on what color you think would be best choices are denim, beige, white and black toile like, beige and white checkered, red, blue and pink striped, or red on white type floral. Your comments will be thankfully welcomed!

Ballet T-shirt

2007-06-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Loop-d-Loop by Teva Durham

Yarn: Blue Sky Alpaca cotton, 2 stranded

I made this t-shirt over the weekend, very quick and easy knit. I wish I had done the correct cast on for the neckline because it is a little on the loose side. Also I might take out the waist and knit a few more rows on if there is enough yarn. Hurray for FO's!

Ryan and are headed to the pool and then he gets his retainer today. He is so happy that school is done. We are going to hit the beach hopefully tomorrow.

Irish Hiking Scarf and FO's here we come!

2007-06-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

Me sporting the docs new scarf
Close up of cabling work

Irish Hiking Scarf
Pattern: courtesy of helloyarn.com

Yarn: wool from last year's Connecticut Agricultural Fair

This scarf is for the doctor at the clinic Steve and I went to. He and all his staff were so kind to us I wanted to do something for them in return. I made all the women (7 ) drop stitch scarves which knit up quick and easy. Now that I'm out of school I'm hoping to finish up lots of projects.

Garden update

2007-06-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Ryan and his new button!
The garden view
Red yarrow and johnny jump-ups
Nasturtiums (makes a salad pretty)
German garlic from a Canadian man I met at a
market last summer

So, Mary being the ever so creative gal that she is, suggested the other night that I chronicle my garden's progress here on my blog. I thought that was a great idea so here are some pictures of it so far this year. Master Ryan went to the doc this morning to get a little button put on his tooth to help it finally come in, it's been over 2 years since he had all the extra adult teeth out.

My homies and my flowers

2007-06-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

I have been completely neglecting this blog but vow to keep it updated now what school is finally out! This is a picture of one of my favorite classes, sixth grade of course. I managed to finish a wee baby blanket for my co-teach that is due in few weeks. I used up some nice blue sky alpacas cotton yarn. With all the crazy end of the year stuff I haven't gotten much knitting done.

Patti sent me these gorgeous flowers yesterday. They were waiting for me on the doorstep when I got home. She's coming to visit in just a few weeks, I can't wait. I'm off to exchange plants with my dear friend and have a spot of tea. Hope anyone who reads my little blog is doing well!

Hourglass oh how I heart thee

2007-03-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Last Minute Knitted Gifts

Yarn: Noro cashmere island

I finished her a few weeks ago and figured I should share as there has been little knitting content on my blog lately. I enjoyed knitting this sweater and the finishing was really easy, next time I will make it one size smaller though. Like how our Bella is rolling over on the bed saying "Geesh lady stop taking pictures of your vain self and pet me for god's sakes!"

I'm starting to feel better from all the meds, still feeling some bloating in my stomach but it has went down some. This whole process doesn't do a lot for a girl's self esteem. I can't wait until I can exercise again a wee bit. I told Steve last night I want to at least go for a walk and we both agreed that I should wait until we get our results. I never knew that 10 days could go by so very slow. At least I'm getting some knitting done!

Long time, busy making baby or babies!

2007-03-18T12:27:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry I haven't written in so very long, these little ones are what has been consuming our lives the past month. I have knitting progress to post soon too.

Steve and I have went through our first IVF and are awaiting the results we will hopefully have on the 26th. It's really hard for me to not obsess about it right now until we hear. The little ones we at the 150 cell stage on day 5 which means they have a better chance.

I've been trying to stay busy knitting, reading, and baking. I'm making drop stitch scarves for all the women in the clinic. I think I'll make a cabled scarf for the doc too. The boys are excited and we were all contemplating names at breakfast. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers!

Happy Holidays

2007-01-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

We had a busy holiday week here at casa del Nowacki's. Steve and I made 500 raviolis for the Italian side of the fam, and the kids loved it as you can see in the pic. I took a class at my girlfriends shop before Christmas in needle felting and made the little Santa you see here. Lucille is closing her shop so she can pursue her art certification, I'm so happy for her.

We had a special guest in the house over the holidays, Sarah's dear doggy Kyra. What a great pup, she fit right in and enjoyed our walks in the woods. After Christmas my Mom and stepdad were able to get a short visit in with us. Grandpa Tom is going to be the new security for the Hershey chocolate factory, he is very happy about. We also fit in a ski trip to Jiminy Peak with Aunt Amy and had a lot of fun. It was so great to see snow and it snowed a few inches over the day while we were there. I am so thankful for our wonderful friends and family and hope that everyones upcoming year is great.

Mr. Tumnus!

2006-11-24T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night Steve brought this adorable guy home to us. He ate hay like he didn't know when he'd see it again that night and was very nervous. Today he's been settling in, eating everything including cardboard and even was free rangin' a wee bit. He is in need of some tlc, and Ryan is definitely up for it. Ryan was all set to camp out for the night with him. Daisy has met her match and stopped dead in her tracks when he met her at the fence with his big horns.
Tomorrow morn we are going to attempt to give him a good bath and we shall see how that works out. Ryan has been helping Dad work on the gate and roof of the shed. Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

First cabling project and Old Sturbridge Village

2006-11-06T20:04:00.000-08:00

Cabled Purse lined with Asian Fabric
Pattern: Knottygirl knits
Yarn: Debbie Bliss cashmerino bulky
I really enjoyed making this handbag for a special someone whose name will remain a secret. It knit quickly and I was able to sew in the liner, thanks to help from Lula!

This past week we went up to Old Sturbridge Village for a wee trip. I really loved seeing the garden harvest and hopefully I can try to grow a similar version of this squash next summer, they were so huge and interesting looking.
I am on the right track with my recent PCOS diagnosis and feeling really good. I stopped by New Morning this past weekend and they helped me out with some different things to keep in mind to keep my blood sugar steady. My test results were good and a few have not come back yet.

What happened to my little sweet boy?

2006-11-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

This is what my husband transformed our child into for Halloween. He thoroughly enjoyed being a wicked scary Gargoyle. We had a great time trick or treatin' on Main street and then here at home scaring the heck out of Ryan's cousins. Steve loves this holiday and went out to the Spirit store today to buy up numerous scary accessories today. One of these years I'm sure he will do a whole haunted yard at our house.
In knitting news I am finishing up my first cabling project, which is a purse for my mom. I'm halfway through the Hourglass sweater hopefully I can finish it by Thanksgiving.
The kids are really excited about our knitting club at school and I'm thinking about starting a blog for it. It is so fun to see the kids learning how to knit and feeling good about themselves.

Butterflies and stress

2006-10-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Upon my arrival home last Friday I noticed these monarchs in my garden loving the mexican sunflowers. The stress of my day left my body when I ventured out to see them up close.
Steve and I thought this picture came out nice even though my photography skills are not so great. That very same night the sunflowers died with the frost, I'm so glad I had the chance to enjoy them.

Hourglass to the frog pond and Yarnista is 32!

2006-10-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

Today is my official 32nd birthday, woo-hoo! I was feeling great until my kids told me they thought I was about 40, geesh. I took a wee tumble rollerblading this morning at school, only suffering a few minor abrasions. The boys gave me a punching bag tonight that will be mounted on the wall in the basement, it is the speed bag kind I think. My Dad was really good at it so I'll have to make him give me a lesson with it.
Things are moving right along for the knitting club at school, I have in hand 7 permission forms thus far. Our first meeting will be the 24th of this month. I can't wait!
In other knitting news, the hourglass sweater and I are not getting along so well as you can see. I have frogged as the yarn I am trying to use is not the correct guage. When I was in the city a few weeks ago, one of the women in the shop I was in said she used it and I'm not quite sure how because I had to give up with it. So I have started again using Noro cashmere island, hopefully this time things work out better.

Sorbet for sweet princess girl

2006-09-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Sorbet Minnowknits
Yarn: Manos cotton stria

Here is a wee sweater I knit for my girlfriend's daughter. Her birthday was 2 weeks ago and I almost had it done except for the finishing. The pink ties look sweet all done up. She is such a cutie, I'll have to see if I can get a pic of her with it on.
She was here last week for an evening and her and I had lots of fun in the garden picking flowers and eating lollipop tomatoes from the vine.
I'm waiting for an answer from my principal at the moment as to whether or not my knitting group proposal is going to fly. I asked today and he said he hasn't had a chance to look at it, I'm afraid that doesn't sound good. Keep me and my kids in your thoughts, please everyone!

My fun filled knitting weekend

2006-09-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the luck of enjoying the art of knitting all weekend. On Saturday we had our scissor squad De-stash party of 2006 here at my house. For pics go to Sarah's lovely blog at www.scissorina.com. We had a sweet time and I scored much wonderful yarns and books. I adore all of the friends that I have met through the squad and it was so nice to have them here at our house.
On Sunday I headed into the city with a great group of gals that belong to the Naugatuck Valley Knitting guild. We hit the NYC Knit out and also some nice yarn shops. The Knit-out was cool but had a few too many "I'll elbow you out of the way to get some free crap" knitters, I never knew there was such a creature. Anyways I had a great time was had nevertheless. For pics of the knit out go to Tammy's informative blog at www.deputyknittersblog.blogspot.com. Peace out y'all.

Green gable oh how I heart this pattern

2006-09-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

Green Gable
Pattern: www.zephyrstyle.com
Yarn: Brown sheep cotton fleece, colorway Victorian rose
Yardage: 3 1/2 skeins

I loved this pattern so much, especially for someone like me who doesn't do well with finishing. It went really quick and I was able to finish it in just a few weeks. I'm making another one for my mom in one of her colors. I wish I had made it a little longer for me is my only regret with it.

Garden eye candy

2006-08-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

It struck me today how beautiful morning glories are. I love this heavenly blue color, they make me happy each morning to see what new ones have opened. A few years ago I saw a farmhouse back home that had on side covered in them vining up strings, maybe I'll have to try that next year.

Trip home to Portland, Ontario

2006-08-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I took a trip home for a few days to see my Mom and Tom. These pictures are at my Mom's pretty shop which they live above right on the lake. I'm kicking myself that I didn't get more pictures of the lake, it is so beautiful.
We had a funfilled time, Ryan loved fishing down at the dock and was there nearly the whole time we were there. Grandpa Tom took him on his very cool huge 4 wheeler and also tubing on the boat. We also got the chance to see my cousins and there families which was really great. Life is at a different pace in Portland, a pace I could certainly get used to.

There's something about Mary on my blog!

2006-08-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

1.I'll respond with something random I like about you.
Your great sense of humor and amazing creative ability.
2. I'll tell you what song/movie/recipe reminds me of you.
You are Raiders of the Lost Ark, you live for adventure, fortune-hunting, and danger. I took a movie quiz for you and tried to answer the question like I thought you would, ha ha.
3. I'll name something we should do together.
Rhinebeck all the way baby!
4. I'll say something that only makes sense to you and me (or just me).
We could get along just fine without them, that’s how we feel at times, eh! (S & S)
5. I'll tell you my first/clearest memory of you - that I remember
You and your sister at Molten Java having a great time crafting with a then small group of women, while I was with the “other” knitting group.
6. I'll leave you a quote that is somehow appropriate to you.
The universe will reward you for taking risks on its behalf.
Shakti Gawain
7. I'll ask you something that I've always wondered about you.
Who inspired your creativity, and how do you get your best ideas?
8. If I do this for you, you must post this on your journal so you can do the same for other people. [Really, I don't care if you post it or not.]

Oh those Crazy Chain Gangs (borrowed from Mary's blog)

2006-08-11T22:04:00.000-07:00

If you comment..
.1. I'll respond with something random I like about you.
2. I'll tell you what song/movie/recipe reminds me of you.
3. I'll name something we should do together.
4. I'll say something that only makes sense to you and me (or just me).
5. I'll tell you my first/clearest memory of you - that I remember.
6. I'll leave you a quote that is somehow appropriate to you.
7. I'll ask you something that I've always wondered about you.
8. If I do this for you, you must post this on your journal so you can do the same for other people. [Really, I don't care if you post it or not.]

Our very own little Chewbacca

2006-08-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

Well, someone left an anonymous comment about our newest addition here at hacienda del Nowacki's not being given his due attention here on the blog. So here you go, demanding little commenter that you are. I've been meaning to post about him.
This is our Chewy we adopted last Monday on Ryan's birthday. He is the sweetest dog you would ever want to meet. He is a collie/husky mix, approx. 2 years old. We adopted him from Rose Hope Animal Refuge in Waterbury. He was rescued from a kill shelter in Georgia, sent to Vermont where they had no room and back here.
He is so good with everybody and us. He and Daisy had their first walk together today and they both did very well. Daisy has been feeling a little displaced but seems to be doing much better now. Chewy will melt your heart the moment you get licked by him.

Bear Mountain Trek

2006-08-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I took a wee trip out to Bear Mountain near the A.T. this week. Our original plan was to stay for 3 days and 2 nights. We hiked in the first day to Sages Ravine, camped then the following day hiked up the north side of the mountain, then down the other side and looped back around. Ryan was a great helper getting water from the stream, filtering it with me and lighting our little campstove. Our backpacking meals were good all except for powdered eggs yuck!
Just as we were settling in for the second night a bad thunderstorm came up. We rushed to get everything inside the tent, thought we were good then the tent leaked and we got soaked. So we decided to pack her up and see if we could make it the 4 miles back to the car before dusk, and we did it. I am so proud of my young man, no complaints after covering so much mileage in one day. It was great to be just him and I and the woods. We plan on backpacking more hopefully in lots of other places too. Special shout out to Eva the wilderness woman with many skills for helping us plan out our trip, I definitely wouldn't of been able to do this without her help!

The I'm so glad it's done sweater!

2006-07-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

Provence sweater:
Pattern: Knitter's spring 2005
Yarn: Classic elite Provence
Time from start to finish: 12 months plus

I'm finished my very first adult sweater! I made a final adjustment to the pattern while finishing it. The closure called for snap tape which I applied and then hated how it looked. So instead I crocheted a button hole on and sewed on a mother of pearl button and now I really like it.
It is a gift for Patti, one of the last time's I visited her she took me to the spa for a day so this was my way of thanking her. We went to a local LYS and she picked out the yarn and pattern. I hope she likes it and it fits her alright.

Always remember the beauty of the garden, for there is peace

2006-07-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd take some photos of my garden so far this year.
Purple Pole Beans
3 Holly hocks (started from seed last year)
Sweet william
Red burgundy okra
Perrenial sunflower

In the vegetable garden I used all heirloom varieties from www.underwoodgardens.com. I am so excited about it and can't wait to see if we can actually harvest something this year. The perennials I've had growing the past few years in a small overgrown garden up the hill. I'm hoping to eventually purchase some kind of metal art sculpture for a focal point and recently discovered some beautiful artwork on this site, www.chavenellestudio.com. I am in love with the family sculptures.
We are off to Block Island this weekend, I can't wait. It will be so great to bike around, explore and my personal fav relax!

Noro silk garden shawl

2006-06-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

Shawl made with 3 skeins of Noro silk garden using sz 17 needles. I took this picture at the archway to our new vegetable garden. Steve said it's not quite tall enough for him so he has to help me make a bigger one. Friday I decided to knit up a shawl for my sister in laws birthday which was today Sunday. I was able to finish it quickly using the needles that Lula at www.lulasyarnshop.com, so kindly let me borrow. Lula is such a sweet helpful person, I really enjoy shopping at her store.
This week I installed a clothesline all by myself and changed not one but two flat tires on our car. I'm so proud of me!

Meme

2006-06-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

Please leave a one word comment you think best describes me. Then do the same meme on your blog and I'll leave you a one word description. (Don't worry, I won't get mad at anything you may put)

Colinette top finished after 2 years!

2006-06-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

Boy oh boy am I an awful procrastinator, I started this top over 2 years ago. I was so out of touch with it I couldn't remember what pattern I used. I was going to frog it but with the encouragement of my scissor sistas I actually finished it, yey me!
Ryan and I had fun tonight in our new veggie garden, he is getting so excited about it. We of course are growing his fav, artichokes. I hope we have a good crop!

Long time, no post!

2006-05-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been neglectful of this bloggy thing lately as I've been consumed by my teaching portfolio which was officially hand delivered this week, yey! Now I have to stop agonizing and wait until September for the results.
We went on an amazing trip in April to see my Dad and also out to Mt. Zion in Utah, it is so beautiful. We hiked and hiked some more and even went up 1500 feet, 2.5 miles to the top of Angel's Landing. Mom was shaking a little as the path gets narrower and narrower as you get closer to the top. Once we were up there it was cool. Here are some pics.

Davey Crockett 1 & 2

2006-04-03T15:38:00.000-07:00

Davey Crockett #1

Davey Crockett #2

So here's our frontiersman, master Ryan. Tomorrow is his wax museum at school. We spent the majority of the day Sunday looking for a coonskin cap with no luck. So mom decided to knit one, well all I can say is funfur sucks!!!!!!!!!!! I knit it twice and both times it turned out crappy. I hit the goodwill store to see what I could find and I found an old wide collar jacket. I cut off the collar, sewed it back up with yarn and came up with this.

DAVEY, DAVEY CROCKETT, KING OF THE WILD FRONTIER!

The guilty and the stolen goods

2006-02-27T13:27:00.000-08:00

So, I got home today, after a hard day with the kids at school, took a nice warm bath and thought I would lay down for a little before dinner. Ms. Daisy had been cowering since I had gotten home, she must have been thinking when is Mom going to find out what I did today. Anways, I pulled back the covers to find a bag of hershey kisses stashed beneath my pillow. This is a first for our Daisy, usually it is a rawhide bone put away for safe keeping. Ryan and I were laughing our butts off and Daisy was wagging her tail and looking at us as if to say please don't be mad at me Mom. Thankfully she didn't attempt to eat any of them, just put them away for a rainy day.

Finished Capelet

2006-02-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

Here's my finished Noro capelet. It knit up very fast and I love the colors of Noro! How do you like our makeshift curtains, cut to size cardboard, so shabby chic. I can't wait to start doing curtains and decorating but it doesn't make sense to until Steve finishes the trim, etc. Ryan and I are off for some bowling then tomorrow snow tubing. I wish I had the whole week off with him, oh well have to take what we can get.

Kitty Pi Bed for Freddy

2006-02-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

In better news I never got around to posting about the kitty pi bed I made for our Freddy. I made it with Noro Big Kureyon, it didn't quite felt like I would have liked it to and is a bit floppy. Freddy doesn't seem to mind too much though. It is my first felting project ever. I have to try to get a better picture of him during the day, he always closes his eyes at night. He is such a dear wee kitty, so friendly everyone falls in love with him.

Sad day

2006-02-07T19:56:00.000-08:00

I feel I have to write about what has happened to our dear Lucky. I am so thankful that we had her. She has taught Ryan about the touching spirit of animals and he will always remember her. She will rest in our hearts forever and our lives are all the richer for having had her.
What has happened to her could have been prevented and from here on out the rest of our animals will be protected. I am going to confront the animal ignornant owners and lay down the law. This is how it will be from now on no matter what, if you want your dog you will do this, otherwise I will see you in court and you will hear from a lawyer. What they did and are doing is unexcusable and unjustifiable for the dog and all other living creatures.
Lucky, dear lucky we will always love you dearly.

I've been tagged twice!

2006-01-21T07:12:00.001-08:00

Christine tagged me with the "list 5 quirky habits" meme.

5 Quirky Habits of mine
mmmm Let's see.........
1. I tend to have strange collections of miscellaneous crap stuffed in drawers all over the house, last weekend we were visiting friends and I made the comment oh its so cute how my girlfriends daughter keeps collections of the oddest things together and Steve piped in ya just like you!
2. I am not a very good listener and have to work on that.
3. I am a not a very good reader and have to work on that.
4. I love being a mother more than anything in the world.
5. I teach up to 80 some tough inner city kids at a time, and never get nervous speaking in front of them, but I always get really nervous speaking in front of a large group of adults.
Okay I really have to get to know more bloggers, her goes I tag, Kerry, Mary, and Annie.

Here's the second one from Sarah

4 jobs you have had in your life

gas station attendant
cheese factory worker
Navy hospital corpsman
Horse caretaker

4 movies you could watch over and over

On Golden Pond
Secondhand Lions
Strange Brew
The Outlaw Josey Wales

4 Places you have lived

Lanark, Ontario, Canada
Perth, Ontario,Canada
Norfolk, Virginia
Jacksonville, Florida

4 TV shows you love to watch

Good Times
Dave Chapelle Show
60 minutes
King of Queens

4 places you have been on vacation

Prince Edward Island
Mount Zion Utah
Sanibel Island Florida
Arizona/Mexican Border town (forget the name, it was that memorable)

4 websites you visit daily

Msn news
Connecticut news 30
ebay
Waterbury public schools

4 of your favorite foods

fresh tomatoes from the garden,with balsamic, garlic, basil and a little fresh mozz
homeade soup
haagen daz sorbet
swiss chard

4 places you would rather be right now

Lanark, Ontario (grandparents farm with them)
Po river, Italy
Arcadia national park, Maine
Valley of Fire park, Nevada

4 people you are tagging
I don't have 4, so anyone reading this who hasn't done it already you are tagged, okidokee!

Lots of knitting time = Happy mommy

2005-12-30T09:32:00.000-08:00

What a heavenly week of knitting bliss this has been. I also had the chance to try out some yoga and pilates classes this week, they kicked my butt! Here's a pic of a loopy scarf I finished this morning on the front porch of our new house, with Daisy. Also a pic of Ryan Christmas morning, don't ya love the beer shirt, a hand me down from Steve to Ryan. Santa left presents all the way up the stairs, sega games and then this archery set, one for Steve and Ryan. The boys had fun with it Christmas morning.

Late Christmas present shawl

2005-12-28T18:22:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love me a quick shawl for instant gratification. Just blocked this mohair shawl tonight, a late Christmas present. I still have to finish the fringe yet. I guess you could say I was a little behind on knitted gifts this year. I took a trip to my fav lys today, knottygirl. I love how comfortable this store is, I could stay and knit for hours too bad there is that work thing in the way, geesh. I fell in love with a new yarn that Debi is carrying its called Ozark handspun, the artisan's website is really interesting. www.ozarkhandspun.com.

Thank you Kerry!

2005-12-28T18:18:00.000-08:00

My unsecret pal Kerry is the best. She sent me this lovely package before Christmas, enclosed are the sweetest stitch marker charms, sock yarn, pattern and needles. I am a bit intimidated by the small gauge of the sock yarn but have successfully started them. Thanks so much Kerry for everything. Hope your Christmas was great.

Lucky's story

2005-12-15T18:55:00.000-08:00

So Sarah informed me that her blog readers were interested in our treasured guinea hen Lucky. Well first of all guinea hens are native to the grasslands of Africa, we decided to get ourselves some because they are great tick eaters and because they are fun to have. We have had quite a few picked off by predators because they free range all day unlike our chickens who stay inside a fence.
This summer Steve and I let the chickens "brood" (sit on) a nest of chicken and guinea eggs. The chickens were not so great at this and kept taking turns sitting on the eggs. (I spoke to a chicken man at the agricultural fair this year who informed me broody hens are being completely bred out of chickens due to our factory farming in the US) This would explain why they were not so good at it. Anyways the 21 days ended and we had no chicks until a few days later when Steve went out to the coop on a rainy night and found Lucky not only out of the nest but out of the shed in the pouring rain. We brought her in and hand raised her from a little chick. At the current time she lives in the garage, I would bring her inside the house if it wasn't for her loud calls at the slightest disturbance. Steve and I are planning on building her a shed of her own and a yard of her own soon. She is likely to not be accepted by the rest of the flock so we will keep her closer to the house. So there you have it the story of how we have became so attached to our guinea hen Lucky. If anyoned wants to read more about the benefits of keeping guinea hens go to www.guineafowl.com/fritsfarm.

First Annual Scissor Squad Holiday Swap!

2005-12-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Last night was our first ever holiday swap for the Hat City Scissor Squad. A great time was had by all if I may say. It was so much fun to have everyone here. Ryan really thought it was a blast too. He woke up this morning saying "Mom you have good parties".
In the hours leading up to our event I was in my first ever car accident. I neglected to realize that a Hummer which had been moving through an intersection had ceased moving. The next thing I knew Steve's Honda was completely crumpled up, and the Hummer didn't have a scratch. The officer who came was very nice, helped me with my groceries and left me at the mall to wait for Steve.
Enough about that and on to the party, here are the pics of everyone opening their treasures, one of Ryan and one of Laura with Lucky perched on her. Hope everyone wants to do it again next year!

Moi, moi!

2005-12-11T15:05:00.000-08:00

Sarah tagged me a long time ago for this, and I must say I have not responded in a timely manner. With the move and not having dsl until this week I have been a bad blogger. But anyways here goes,

what is your all time favorite yarn to knit with?
I would have to say I love everything by Colinette, but the price. I really love Manos del Uraguay too.

your favorite needles?
I like circulars, and of course the mercedes of knitting needles lantern moon's, rosewood are beautiful. I like both addis, and bamboo, everything else I have a hard time knitting with.

the worst thing you've ever knit/crocheted?
I would have to say a hat I found while we moved that I tried to make for Ryan. I had the idea to make him a long stocking hat but no pattern. So being a relatively new knitter I thought I would wing it. The result, something Steve and I both called the condom hat upon finding it during the move. It is freakin hilarious.

your most favorite knit pattern? (maybe you don't like wearing it...but it was the most fun to knit)
I would have to say a simple shawl I made this summer with Manos cotton stria, it was a pattern by a spinnery here in Ct. I love me some instant gratification and this was it.

most valuable knitting technique?
I have to agree with Sarah that having nerves of steel is essential to this craft. The most valuable technique would be one that I have not learned yet and that is inartasia.

best knit book or magazine?
I'm not that well read as far as knitting books and magazines go but I do like Interweave. A recent gift of Knitting Tips and Trade Secrets will soon prove to be invaluable from the quick glance I have had of it.

your favorite knit-a-long?
I haven't done a kal yet so I can't say.

your favorite knitblogs?
I of course have to say my fellow scissor squadsters because they are the main ones I read. Scissorina, Purls of Hope, Scribble Nation, and Chutka.

your favorite knitwear designer?
I would have to say that although I will never posess the ability to knit any of his designs, Kaffe Fassett has some pretty cool stuff. I haven't knit enough yet to know who else but I do like a lot of Colinette's designs.

Long time no post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-12-07T13:28:00.000-08:00

We just got the dsl hooked up in our new house, yey! We are all so happy to be living in the house finally, here's a picture of the great room and kitchen so far. Also a pic of my first ever baby booties, for my girlfriend at work who just had a baby about 4 weeks ago. (I'm just a little late)

Thank you Sarah

2005-11-01T12:54:00.000-08:00

Sarah gave me this lovely hemp yarn for my birthday and the oh so sweet llama card. I'm looking forward to trying hemp yarn for the first time, mmmmm what should I make with it? Any suggestions are more than welcome. Notice the winterberry branches in the background, I found them down by the stream on a family walk last week. I planted one of these down at the house this past spring. I can't wait to work in our garden more this coming year.
Sunday I took the cubscouts on an interesting hike at Kettletown. We got a little lost, but in the end found our way to a beautiful scenic overlook of lake zoar. Can you tell the boys look a little frustrated with my map interpreting skills?

My gaelic phrase

2005-10-30T06:50:00.000-08:00

Your Results:Is maith liom bananai Is maith liom bananai - 'I like bananas.'You're laid-back and you enjoy the simple things in life. Some might say you're a little too laid-back. Just what is it you're smoking, anyway?

I was reading Mary's blog and her post about this gaelic quiz, interesting this is exactly what Steve says I am. I tell him he's way too uptight and he says I don't worry enough about crap. We went to a Halloween party last night and he spilled his fake skin all over himself and I'm laughing my butt off and he was upset! Example of enjoying the simple things in life I guess, too funny.

Our pretty kitchen and I'm heated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-10-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Well, here is what I'm thankful for, our pretty new kitchen countertops isn't she nice? On the other hand as my kids at school say "I'm heated!". I was so excited because some of my homeroom students have been begging me to teach them to knit and today was going to be our big day. I brought in all my stuff, made forms for them and their parents to sign stating they would use the needles only to knit with. Now I thought I should let the principal for our house division in on what I was doing, well she told me no that the kids could do harm with them. She said it's nice that I wanted to but, no. I had to return to my homeroom to the kids excitedly asking me if I brought the goods well I got a little teary eyed. It just broke my heart. I guess these administrators don't get it that knitting could help them in other facets of their lives. I'm going to stew about it a little while then figure out what I'm going to do. I don't think I can let this one go.

My daring boy

2005-10-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

My dad and Patti were here visiting recently and we took a trip to Silver Sands beach. Well my forever daring son was dead set on going for a dip even though it was a chilly day. He had a good time and I was wishing that I was in there with him too, suprisingly the water didn't feel too bad. In other news, we had our countertops installed today, yipeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! Our kitchen almost looks complete, we just have to get the cabinet doors on, drawers in and a fridge. I cleaned windows all day today, who knew that vinegar and newspapers was great to clean them with, cheap too.

Saying goodbye

2005-09-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend Ryan and I fed the horses we've taken care of for two years for the last time. The farm is going to be sold soon. Marty the woman I worked for has bought a farm in Ledyard and will be moving there. These are pictures of Flash, who is a beautiful big guy. I will miss them dearly, hopefully in the near future we will have a horse to call our own.

The best unsecret pal in the universe

2005-09-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

My unsecret pal sent me this beautiful thoughtful package today. A subscription to a very cool read Breathe, burts hand care kit, knitting note cards, yummy yummy pumpkin candle and a book on celtic myths. It was so appreciated after having a dissapointing day, our cabinets for the house never did show up, after being on hold many times and phone calls the truck apparently broke down, geesh! Thanks so much Kerry. Now how to get Kerry back!

Baby guinea hen rules the house!

2005-09-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

Our little baby guinea is so darn cute she is starting to take over. On Sunday I was making salsa so I let her hang out with me and where did she love to be but on the dog's bed. It's a good thing Daisy didn't find out, I think she would of been very upset. Then tonight my husband was letting her stand on his head! I don't think she will ever consider herself an outdoor shed living game bird judging from this.

The best secret pal in the world!

2005-09-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

My secret pal sent me these nifty "foot bags" as she liked to call them last week along with some lovely sock yarn and a cool sock pattern book. They are foot bags because my feet are huge! Size 10 and wide at that. My sp was so very thoughtful, I can't wait to send her a thank you gift.

Best buddies and blueberries

2005-08-31T13:29:00.000-07:00

Ryan had his best buddy Ryan over last week to go blueberry picking. When we came home they went down to the garden to see what other food stuffs they could find. They returned with these giant zucc's in hand oh so happy. I love Ryan's age right now, he can stay like this forever, no need to become a teenager.

Finished Lana Grossa tank

2005-08-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

C'est fini! I finished this lana gross tank finally, then tortured my son this morning to get a pic of it. I went into school this morning for a back to school meeting. It was nice to see everybody after being away all summer. Only 5 more days of freedom, can't wait to see all the kids.

My niece became a knitter overnight

2005-08-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

My niece Amanda is one amazing young lady. I spent a weekend with her and her bros and sista recently, and I taught them to knit about the last hour I was there. Well wouldn't you know she went and knit herself this adorable pony and chenille blanket since then. Both the pieces are absolutely flawless. I certainly can't take the credit for this marvel because her mother is a sewing goddess. I'm sure the sewing goddess genes had a lot to do with this incredible talent to pick up crafts so quickly. I am so very proud of her and her sista Val. I can't wait to see what they make next.

Home sweet nearly finished home

2005-08-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

My husband, son and I went looking at wood for the floors of the house my husband has been building for us this morning. We decided on a country grade ash, at a good price and hopefully with a rustic look. Our son is really excited about having his own room and I can't wait to have a knitting room and a nice kitchen.
We had a camp out at the lot this week with my son's buddies. We had so much fun chasing them around the house and yard after dark and telling stories by the fire. Our dog Daisy stayed in the tent with us, I woke up to her circling all of us sleeping in the tent apparently protecting us from the fiercesome deer outside the tent.
Only 10 more days until school starts, oh the lazy days of summer where have you gone?