The abundant life!!!

I've moved!

2007-01-01T22:08:00.000-05:00

Come and see me at my new blog host:

mercysmama.wordpress.com

be sure to change your bloglines!!!!

Tagged by Beth

2006-12-23T17:18:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by Beth. So here goes 6 wierd things about me:

1) Oversleeping by 15 minutes will cause me to not go the the gym. Crazy I know, but if I don't get my behind through those gym door right at 6 am... I feel like I am better off not going because I won't get a "full" workout. My hubby thinks this is quite silly.

2) Seeing laundry, clean or dirty, OUT, can occasionally send me into a maniacal tail spin. It's a good thing we moved the washer & dryer to the basement from our first floor bathroom.

3) An eigth to a quarter of an inch can sometimes determine my mood- when it is the amount of room or lack of room in the waistband of my favorite jeans. Currently, it's a good mood. Let's hope it stays that way through the next week of parties and overeating!!!

4) I used to take my fork and squish crumbs on my dessert plate to get that last bite... and never thought anything of it until I saw this "trait" of mine being described by my husband at my bridal shower. The bridesmaids made a video of my then-hubby-to-be and asked him all sorts of questions. I haven't done this since.

5) I like a little coffee with my cream.

6) I have never completed a garment for myself!!!! They are all UFO's- sizzle, my cabled sweater, a lace shawl... socks...

2006-12-20T06:29:00.000-05:00

sadly, grandma's ballerina slipper will have to be frogged. Not enough yarn to complete the other foot. My LYS doesn't carry the yarn anymore, but I purchased something comparable. The puple has a little fleck of pink in it and I figured that since I was doubling up on the yarn, I could just used the other yarn w/ it and it would be fine. I'm off to frog the slipper before I go to work this morning.

And of course there was a 50% off bin at my LYS! I picked up three hanks of this luscious alpaca- 100%. It's going to be a "test-tube" scarf for my hubby to see if he is allergic to alpaca. The store owner thought that maybe he was allergic to lanolin, which was something used to creat wool or process it or something in machine made sweaters (like the ones he has from a store and not my knitting needles). So we will see. I wonder if I could whhip this up before his b-day next week. Hmmm.

And a few mercy pics for your viewing pleasure...

I think she wants to go somewhere in her carrier. Too bad Starbucks won't let us come in there anymore.

2006-12-19T06:33:00.000-05:00

My mom's house sold... and she made us come and get all my junk that was left in my old room. I found loads of colored pencils and other random crafts over the past few weeks...

We packed up our friend's truck and took her stuff to the intermediary home (my grandma's) where she has been staying since gram came home from the hospital in August. Gram wasn't able to live alone and has been terribly sad since my grandfather died. Thankfully, having my mom there seemed to help gram get better! Mom will be moving again in February, when she and her longtime BF marry.

We took my old bedroom set, which I will admit is somewhat dated, but it's free, a five piece set, and it has some sentimental value to me. I figured that once we have children it would be a perfectly not-new-so-I-wont-be-upset-when-they-write-in-marker-all-over-it type of furniture. We also got my mom's washer & dryer, which is much newer than ours. After Christmas we are going to hook them up. We will be the yuppies who have two washers and two dryers. We need one set per person, c'mon! I am excited about the double duty machines. We go through alot of laundry, mostly because of me and my gym clothes. I can't imagine what will happen after we have little ones.

It was a long day.

On Sunday, we traveled to Syracuse and met up with my husband's uncle & family. We had lunch/dinner at this great restaurant, Plainville Farms. Very family friendly, which was good because the cousins are 5 & 6.

We exchanged gifts and look at what Mercy got! A cat tunnel! She's small enough for a cat tunnel- good news because the agility tunnels are a hundred bucks. Mercy promptly climbed inside her tunnel and layed down for a little nap. Now it's her favorite place to hide. We can't wait to get the connecting tunnels.

I did manage to get some knitting done. One more ballerina slipper for gram. Sadly, I think I have run out of yarn on the second. I hope that my LYS still carries this lovely alpaca.

One more fat ankle photo for your viewing pleasure.

The weekend would not be complete without a mad dash to the zoo, err, I mean post office. Two days in a row, and both were quite busy. Sunday at 9 pm and Monday at 11 pm. Of course, we will be there again tonight. One more gift to send. We hope.

Have a wonderful day everyone!

Some FO's and UFO's

2006-12-14T21:44:00.000-05:00

BEHOLD... the ballerina slipper. Thanks Marisol for the pattern!

Eww I have fat ankles. And ghastly white. You'd never know I work out, huh?

Mercy has nice skinny ankles. She seems to like her grandma's birthday gift too!

I used Lambs Pride worsted in Deep Charcoal.
It took me about a week. (amongst various other projects!)
The combination of the wool and mohair makes a really neat fleck in the yarn that I truly enjoy. But alas, these will be gifted to my mother dearest this weekend for her umm... 39th birthday... same age for the past fifteen years- you know the drill!

I have had a setback on sleeve island. Looks as though I may be here longer that I thought. Somehow I missed a stitch or row or something that would cause this gaping hole. I continued knitting on for several inches. Time to frog.

Thankfully the other sleeve was not adversely affected.

This weekend we will be traveling to Syracuse NY for the day to visit with some family that is in town... so I hope to get some car knitting in and get the sleeves back on track to wear for Christmas. I can do it. I can do it. I can do it.

I also got THIS surprise in the mail... well not really a surprise... I ordered it...

Karen Kingsbury's fourth book in the Firstborn series "Family." Her books are awesome and a superfast read! The stories are so gripping that you will stay up until all hours of the night reading just one more chapter... and another... and another.... (I finished this one in 2 days )I highly recommend her books!

Sadly, I will have to wait until spring 07 at the earliest for the last book of this series.

A piece of sad news... it appears as though my dear hubby may be ALLERGIC TO WOOL!?!?!?! How can this be? The fiber that I have come to love is the very same item that makes him sneeze and have hayfever like symptoms? Nothing I have knit him has made him sneeze... but then again, I haven't actually finished knitting him anything in wool. A woolease by Lion Brand scarf many moons ago... the camo yamaka was acrylic... Basically when he wears store bought wool sweaters he feel sick with watery eyes, scratchy throat, sneezy, etc.

But I have been secretly doing all this research on how to design him the coolest snowboarding sweater. Clipping photos from magazines the whole nine yards. Now is it possible that I may have to knit such a masterpiece in acrylic?!?!

Is alpaca the same as wool? If he is allergic to wool, is he allergic to cashmere? Oh the sorrow!

Maybe I should buy a skein of every time of fiber and do an allergy test.

Handmade Christmas Gift Swap!

2006-12-11T06:19:00.000-05:00

Bright paper packages tied up with string.....

These are a few of my favorite things.

Look at all these goodies that Beth sent me! Look at this handmade scarf- so beautiful. I never knew that was how you made diagonal ribbing. I can't wait to try one myself. I wore the scarf all evening. A cute little ornament to go on the tree... cinnabon coffee... a new willowtree figurine for my collection... and even Mercy got a gift! Thank you Beth! You are the best!

This week has been a busy one, as I have been absent from blogland for a week! I did, however, receive a really cool pattern from Marisol for ballerina slippers, and I have one slipper done, one to go for my mom. I hope I can whip up a few more pairs for some others. before Christmas.

I cast on for a new and improved camo hat for my hubby. No yamaka this time. I changed the needle size and cast on about 10 more stiches. Let's hope!

Have a great Monday everyone!

It's a Bird.... It's a Plane.... It's a Hat?

2006-12-05T06:37:00.000-05:00

It's a man's hat! No, it's Mercy's hat!

Wait, I know - a camoflague yamaka! One must keep kosher on the hunt, you know. (to all my Jewish friends, please don't take offense!)

We sure had a good laugh about this one last night. I simply could not control my laughter. Hysterics. A camo yamaka. That's what it looks like! We need to find a very small headed hunter, maybe a child, to give this to.

So it's back to the drawing board for knitting the hubby something. And I will knit on circulars ad check size/ try on often!!!

2006-12-03T07:17:00.000-05:00

Happy: Horray! It looks great, doesn't it?

Sad: 'Tis too small to fit over my heel and onto my leg.... and will be frogged to start over!

It appears that I have some knitting issues. The gauge thing is due to the particular STYLE in which I knit. I started knitting the English way, and somewhere along the way I picked up Continental. And in my Continental ways, my stitches are a bit loose. Hence my gauge problems.

So I am trying to teach myself to knit again in the English way so that I can have more even stitches. Oh, the pain of knitting slowly and awkwardly again! Anybody have any other ideas?

Here's a few pics of my Christmas decor... the tree is not done yet... still looks a bit plain to me. The ballerina ornaments are from my Aunt A. She gave me an ornament just about every Christmas- and emailed me that she was concerned that I only had a mini tree that didn't have room for her ornaments! Nope- see Auntie- they are up! The others are too. :)

And check it out- we went bowling on Friday. Ad after a three year hiatus from the lanes- I won! The first match, anyhow. I beat my hubby by 1 point. Pin. something. He beat me in the second game.

After bowling, we decided to go out for dessert. Sadly, the local ice creme place was closed, so we opted for the upscale dessert store near our house. What a contradiction, bowling alley pizza and high end- after an opera level desserts.

Nice, huh?

Have a happy Sunday!

Fair Isle HELP!

2006-11-30T19:52:00.000-05:00

Somebody please tell me, am I doing this right? The carrying the yarn thing... is it supposed to look like this in the back? I think the front looks ok...

tangled lights

2006-11-27T06:58:00.000-05:00

So the tree is up, but I am now faced with this chaos. And it's been sitting on our floor for four days now.

Now matter how careful you are when storing Christmas lights, they always end up like this eleven months later.

I am happy to say that I am now on sleeve island for my cabled sweater project. It took half a dozen attempts to get the right gauge again and to get two sleeves going at the same time, but I am on the island. And I will not be voted off until I complete my mission! I finished the ribbing last night.

I cast on for my wild knee socks... and discovered after 1.65 rounds that my aluminum dpns just aren't going to cut it. So off to the LYS store I hope to go tonight. :)

2006-11-24T17:43:00.000-05:00

Hmmm.. My Julia yarn has come in the mail for my wild think socks!!! 25% Alpaca, 25% Mohair, 50% wool. 100% yummy. Of course, I must meet up with the lovely Lynne to split up the rest... and then I will be off and starting these lovely socks. Which I have nothing to wear with. YET.

I did my gauge swatch with size 7 dpns, as recommended, and my square was too big by a half an inch (see below). So I went down to size 6, and it seems to be right on...

We were also working on our Mercy photoshoot for her 2007 calendar. We'll take orders!!!

Here we have Mercy in her pink faux crocodile carrier and two fall month photos. We were thinking October for the basket one and November for the cornocopia one.

We had a lovely Thanksgiving and I got some lovely knitting done. I am now on the armhole decreases for my cabled sweater. Taaaa Daaaa!!! Pretty soon I will be on sleeve island- a place I have never been before...

I was able to put up a few Christmas decorations today:

Well, I gotta go! ELF is on TV!!! We love Will Farrell. :)

2006-11-20T21:13:00.000-05:00

Back to my regularly scheduled Blog...

Thankfully, a new book came to my rescue Saturday when I was feeling quite upset about the bike path dangers.

"Found" by Karen Kingsbury.

I read it in about a day. Typical for Karen Kingsbury books. I picked it up at the store Saturday afternoon and had it finished before church on Sunday! I absolutely ADORE Karen Kingsbury.

I started reading the Redemption Series, a five book series that follows the lives of 5 children, last summer and have been hooked ever since. What I love about her books is that they tell stories of people that are faced with real temptation, with real trials- sometimes they make the right decisions and sometimes they don't. But, despite what choices they make, God forgives and is the only one able to piece their lives back together. I would HIGHLY recommend her books! A great Thanksgiving read!

I also did some swapping shopping. :) Always a joy to do that.

Check out these Napoleon Dynamite socks I found! It was meant to be- I was strolling through the store to pick up a catalogorder and passed the sock section. This pack was the only one like it. YEEEESSSSSSS! SWEEEEET!!! They are for my cousin... Hope she doesn't read this!

In knitting news... I heard from a little birdie that the yarn she ordered for the wild thing knee socks arrived today. According to my calculations, as I ordered one day later than she, mine should arrive tomorrow! I'm still pluggin' along on my cabled sweater... I hope to finish the front this long weekend.

So... what are your Thanksgiving project plans?

ANGRY. SCARED. FRUSTRATED.

2006-11-18T09:19:00.000-05:00

I am ANGRY. I am SCARED. I am FRUSTRATED.

This sicko is back.

DNA proves bike path killer is back

This man is known to have attacked 10 women over the past 20 years in MY CITY. He killed three of them. The last one, Joan Diver he killed on the anniversary of his first murder, college student Linda Yalem. SICK.

He attacks them from behind and strangles them with a rope or cord. Tapes their eyes, nose and mouth. Rapes them, and leaves them for dead. Why on earth would somebody do this?

I am a runner. I was supposed to go running on the bike path this morning. I was going to meet the Team in Training folks and run 10 miles. I would be running with other people, but sometimes I would be by myself if there wasn't somebody there that was my pace. But with this breaking news over the past few days, that the murder of Joan Diver just two months ago was NOT an isolated incident, that it was this twisted man... I stayed home.

It's frustrating. This is supposed to be a safe place to live. I love to run out on the path. It is so beautiful there. Nice surface, nice views, miles marked to keep track of you pace, etc. I feel like I am in jail. The police are warning women not to run alone, in the dark, on paths or shortcuts. There have been more attacks that have not been reported to the news. I know- the policeman who patrols the path warns us. He told us of the specific mile markers to be aware of.

I am going to run this afternoon down busy Main Street on the hard concrete that kills my shins, with my dog, a cell phone, and maybe my swiss army knife. I wish I had pepper spray. I think I want to take Karate. Like, learn how to kill your attacker in 90 ways with a toothpick type karate.

Living in fear is not fun. This guy has got to be caught.

The yarn has been bought...

2006-11-16T07:03:00.000-05:00

Yes, the yarn has been bought. After my last post, my friend and knitting mentor, Lynne, totally encouraged me to knit these wild knee socks and offered to knit a pair along with me! So, after some coordination we decided to split the yarn, hence defraying the cost a bit. PLUS Lynne found a great seller on ebay who had the yarn- UnRaveled Yarn. Check her out. The shipping is VERY reasonable and the prices are great too.

Now I am racing home every day to see if the yarn is here yet... And one of the many things that is great about knitting with Lynne, in addition to the fact that she is an incredibles source of wisdom for all things crafty, is that I think it will be very difficult for me to mess these up!

I frogged my sock. My way-too-big sock. I aim to start again sometime... I just need some motivation and to make some UFO's FO's.

On the running front, I have had some highs and lows this week. I wanted to run 10 miles on Monday after work, but again, too dark & scary. Plus a woman was murdered on a bike path two months ago.. so I have a little more reason to be scared. So I hop on the treadmill and the thing wouldn't let me run 10 miles! Only 8. Which was ok, I just picked up my pace. I felt HORRIBLY sick after I got home though... exhausted, dehydrated, hungry, sick to my stomach... Clearly I did not replace electrolytes. Bad Dana. BUT I did run under 9:45 minute pace for 8 miles and complete a trekking class during that time. So it's ok.

The Turkey Trot is one week from today! I hope to get one more hard workout in and then taper a bit. Then run the race and come home & eat a whole lotta stuffing. And knit by the fire. mmmmm.

A new obsession is brewing...

2006-11-12T20:44:00.000-05:00

Yes, those are Runners World magazine on my coffee table. And yes, that is Vogue Knitting waaayyy off to the right.

I seem to have gotten the running bug. Now, you might say that I have had it for a while, seeing as how I just completed my first marathon a few weeks ago.

But... its... gotten....worse.....

I go to the gym and hop on the treadmill (no more running outside during the week- too dark and scary). I start running at a comfortable pace and then this voice tells me to go faster. I try to fight it, but there's some logic behind the voice. And coercion.

"Make it worth your time."
"The faster you run, the quicker you'll be done."
"You'll burn more calories."
"Don't you want to get faster?"
"Don't you want to win a medal?"

AHA! The clincher. Don't you want to win a medal? Well, duh. I still have some competitive bones in my body. So I listen to the voice, and keep hitting the increase speed button until I am running for dear life, afraid of what will happen if I slow down and fall off the back of the treadmill. Every day, a little faster, a little farther. More reps in the weight room. I can feel it baby, its hurting, I am sore and I am getting stronger!

I got a little payoff for my hard work yesterday:

Third place (for age 20-24) in the Lindsay's Legacy 5k. With a time of 26:10. Not bad considering I haven't run a 5k since high school.

But... I .... must.... improve.

The Turkey Trot is a week and a half away. That's 5 miles. I can't wait!

Now, I am still knitting, don't you worry. I have a few inches of cabled sweater front happening, but nothing significant to post.

I have, however, found some new possible projects, though I should be casting on for Christmas gifts...

These legwarmers/knee highs are so cool. And so complicated. Considering I am a sock failure. Eh hem, I mean a yet-to-have-accompished-a-sock-knitter.

Anyway, they have fair isle (which I have never attempted) and embroidery (which I have also never attempted).

The pattern is from Fall 2006 Vogue Knitting and is designed by Kristin Nicholas. Kristin seems very cool. It calls for Nashua Handknits/Westminster Fibers Julia (kid mohair/alpaca/wool). It looks like these will set me back about $80! Hmmmm Merry Christmas to me?

And this fabulous belted cardigan, designed by Margaret O'Leary, also found in the Fall 06 Vogue Knitting.

What I love about it is that there are 2 main cables and the rest is stockinette! Very nice, considering my current cable project has cables everywhere.

Off to start the week! Gotta run run run! Faster & Farther!

How Much?

2006-11-10T06:32:00.000-05:00

Have you ever thought about how much your time is worth? Could you put a monetary value on your time? ALL of your time?

Many of us have a "billable" rate at work and a salary that sort of translates to an hourly wage (and unless you own your own business and have zero overhead, your billable does NOT equal your hourly wage).

But how much is your time worth? Ever think about that?

I did some preliminary calculations for me:

There are 168 hours in a week. I spend:

42 - 56 of them sleeping (6-8 hours sleeping a night, usually on the low end.)

40- 50 of them working

10.5 of them showering/ getting ready/ hair, etc.

3.75 on my commute to work a week.

2 of them grocery shopping

10.5 cooking at home & cleaning up the kitchen

8 or so on laundry and cleaning the house

12 or so at the gym.

Leaving me with 12-39 ish hours left a week to do other stuff. Like spending time with God. And my husband. Like knitting. Or walking the dog. Or blogging, reading, etc.

So I think I want to have my own "billable" rate in order to have the mindset that time IS valuable. Since I don't like mental math, I am just going to tell myself that my rate is $100/ hr. Pretty steep, but spare time is precious commodity!

So, without further adieu, I present to you the back of my cabled sweater. It cost me $2,000 in time.

I wonder what the front will cost.

One last look...

2006-11-07T07:03:00.000-05:00

... before the frog pond.

I vow to DO A GAUGE SWATCH. I didn't before. I figured it was just a sock, how important could gauge be?

I have learned my lesson. ALWAYS swatch!

Now, how to do that when you are making up your own pattern, like how I am for my hubby's hunting hat, I don't know. Any suggestions?

2006-11-02T06:31:00.000-05:00

Mercy just looks so pitiful in my post from Halloween that I just had to post a happier one of her. I didn't want PETA to get mad or anything- haha!

See, she really is happy. I really do take good care of her. I don't torture her with the outfits all the time. She does look adorable in sweaters, though.

This picture was taken the night we got home from the marathon- little Mercy had been at "Camp Grandma" (aka- my mothers) for the weekend, and she was so happy to snuggle in bed with us!

Look at what my in-laws sent me for my birthday:
The Angle of Light Willow Tree figurine.

I LOVE Willow Tree things. I have a few others too:

Angel of the Kitchen, from my mom

And Promise, from my in-laws.

I have a Christmas one too, but c'mon, it's only November!!!

By the way, my husband and I were priveledged to be a part of the first annual Lauren Castanza Challenge this past weekend. It was a 5K to benefit the Lauren Castanaza Foundation, which is raising money for medical mission.

Dear hubby came in fifth place overall and won his age group with a time of 20:55 for a 5 k. Amazing, huh?

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

The most amazing thing to me is how God can take something that is tragic, and turn it into something beautiful.

This is a picture of Lauren with her parents.

Lauren was called home to heaven last year while hiking. One moment, she was on this earth, the next moment, she was on the way to meet her Savior.

It was a tragic accident, she lost her footing and slipped off a path and over a cliff. Thank God that he doesn't waste pain.

She was a 19 year old young woman in love with life and her precious Jesus. Her writings were incredible, along the lines of Spurgeon, CS Lewis, and Chambers. Her journals shows her heart- that it beat for Him who saved her.

Her other love was biology and medicine. She studied very hard and was an exceptional student. She even did research during the summer at a local University. Her dream was to become a professor of medicine and go to third world countries to teach. But she wanted to teach the people not only how to be a doctor or nurse, but how to take care of their own people, not move the the U.S. to get rich.

Her mission on earth was completed on July 30, 2005. But for her family and friends, our mission is not complete. We are still here. Which is why Laurens parents have created the LRC Foundation to continue on in her honor and for Gods glory.

The race was the first event. It was a success. I am so thankful to have been a part of it.

We can't wait for next year.

Happy Halloween!

2006-10-31T21:22:00.000-05:00

My lone trick or treater, a less than thrilled Mercy in her Halloween Costume. She looked so mortified to be wearing it that I took it off her right after this picture. Poor Mercy. It has been too dark for us to go running lately before or after work.

Sadly, I too, am an Octoberfest failure. I know that the point was to just be working on socks, and there wasn't technically a deadline, but c'mon, everybody knows that they were trying to finish a pair by month end.

And even worse is that I will have to rip this guy out- for the third time! I am having gauge issues. I can't believe that I really knit that loosely. I didn't do a gauge swatch for the socks. I know, I know, my fault.

I will eventually finish the sock. I love the colorway! Plus I have never finished a sock.

I also didn't do a gauge swatch for the baby sweater. And I am also having issues there as well.

BUT I did swatch for my cabled sweater. And I did have to go down a needle size. AND it is coming along nicely. Almost done with the armhole decreases on the back. I hope to get that done tonight.

PS- Tomorrow is my birthday!

I finished the race!!!!!!!!!

2006-10-29T21:37:00.000-05:00

Me at approzimately mile 23 or 24. My dear husband ran the last 3 miles of the marathon with me and ran ahead of me to get this shot.

Yes, I purpsely bought the shorts so that I would stick out amongst the crowd. And yes, there are some no so flattering photos. But hey, I ran 26.2 miles, obviously I'm not going for glam here!

The micro picture of me at the finish line! Compliments of Nike. You can see the full size images available for purchase (at quite a ridiculous price) HERE

So... the marathon. The Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco. My first marathon. It was an incredible weekend.

I had trained for over 18 weeks with Team in Training, logging the miles week in and week out and fundraising $4,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The people I met through my training were the most incredible, encouraging folks I have ever met. The longest I had ever run was 7 miles prior to commencing my training and I was pretty lax in the exercise department since graduating from college. Every Saturday I had a new personal record- 8 miles, 10 miles, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20.

We boarded our plane at 6 am on Friday, October 20th and arrived in San Francisco. We walked over to Niketown to pick up my race packet.

On Saturday, we met up with some of my relatives who live a short commute from San Francisco and hit up Chinatown. We found an awesome tea bar where we sampled various teas and were educated about tea drinking. I think I may no longer use tea bags! ha!

I got to bed fairly early Saturday evening and woke up race day at 4 am! I was so excited and nervous, I couldn't sleep anymore. I got up, got dressed, drank my coffee and spent some time praying for strength to get through the next several hours of running I was about to embark upon.

The race started in Union Square at 7 am. I went out WAY to fast, with my first 5 miles all being under 10 minute pace. THEN came mile 6, a hill so steep that there was an "Oxygen Station" at the top! Mile 6 was all uphill. Then it seemed like everything until mile 12 was uphill as well. I think there was one section running downhill, but my legs were shot by the time I made it to the halfway point. My mile times were sginificatly slower in the second half of the race.

The scenery was breathtaking as we ran along the Pacific shoreline, through Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and down to Lake Merced. By the time I reached mile 20, it seemed like the miles were getting longer. My husband hopped in at mile 23 and ran the rest of the way with me. I was so thankful for him. His encouragement was incredible and very much needed at that point.

Mile 26- My coach came out to run the last mile with me. I was almost there. I couldn't believe that I was actually going to complete the marathon.

.2 to go- I started to kick it in. I couldn't believe that I actually had any kick left in me after running for 5 hours, but I did! As I approached the finish line with a lump in my throat, I high-fived my coach and raised my arms into the air in victory as I crossed the finish line.

I was immediately swarmed with finish line attendees. Men in tuxedos handed me a blue Tiffany's box with my finishers necklace. Somebody clipped my timing chip off of my shoe. I was handed a space blanket to keep warm and my finishers t-shirt. Then I finally got to see my husband at the other end of the chute.

He hugged me and told me how proud he was of me. I couldn't believe that the race was over.

I did it. I ran a marathon. 26.2 miles. Amen!

Getting ready for the marathon!!!

2006-10-18T20:14:00.000-05:00

I am getting ready for the marathon.

The cheering stations have been identified and dear hubby is working on coordinating that.

I am compiling a list of photos I want to take/ have taken to document this momentous occasion.

The bags are almost all packed with the exception of a few items- mostly gel/ liquid items that I am not quite sure what to do with. We are only going to be gone for 4 days and I definitely cannot afford to lose my luggage so I was planning on just carrying stuff on the airplane. BUT the no liquid ban could pose a problem, especially with the energy shots that I am planning to take with me.

In 30 hours we will be on our way to the airport to meet the team. Our plane departs in approximately 33 hours. I am so excited! And so nervous! I can't believe I am actually doing this.

I've trained for this. Almost 5 months I have been training. I've lost 12 pounds and hope to continue that trend after the marathon. I've raised money for cancer research. I have gone farther than I ever thought I could go and I am about to stretch my limits, mentally, physically, and spiritually. I can do it! I can do it! I can do it!

I hope to finish this sock and it's partner on the trip too! I started these socks for me, but it looks like they may be too big so I may give them to my hubby instead. Mercy thinks they are too big as well!

Well, I'm off to finish packing and packing Mercy's stuff for the weekend at Grandma's.

2006-10-16T18:04:00.001-05:00

Upper Glen Falls after October Buffalo Snowstorm

2006-10-16T18:04:00.000-05:00

Mid- Glen Falls after October Buffalo Snowstorm

2006-10-16T18:03:00.000-05:00

Lower Glen Falls after October Buffalo Snowstorm

The creek is at least 10 feet higher than it usually is...

Mercy's new friend

2006-10-16T08:58:00.000-05:00

Mercy has befriended my grandmother, an indefinate houseguest due to no power or heat at her home. Mercy knows her as "Big Grandma." And for some reason, Mercy wants to be around her, sleep next to her, cuddle by her- quite funny considering grandma is not a dog person!

My mom is getting jealous, I think. But for a little while Mercy snuggled with "Little Grandma."

I did make some progress on my cabled sweater pullover from Knit It!

I am now ready to begin the armhole decreases!

I will begin packing tonight for our trip to San Francisco for the marathon! I can't believe the marathon is only a few days away. 18 weeks + of training will hopefully pay off with a strong finish! I did slip and fall in my office parking lot Thursday during the storm and have a slightly pulled hamstring and a slightly swollen foot, but I am praying it gets better in time!

Aftermath...

2006-10-14T20:56:00.000-05:00

A picture is worth a thousand words...

Supplies and water

2006-10-13T19:25:00.000-05:00

There's a boil water order in our county now until further notice and the water may not run anymore because the water authority is out of power. We put water in every container we could find. Think we have enough?

This is crazy! All the power might not be up until next weekend!!!

2006-10-13T11:49:00.000-05:00

Buffalo Snowstorm Yorkie

Here's our aftermath video

Snowstorm!!!

2006-10-13T10:46:00.000-05:00

We had a wicked snowstorm. Over 24 inches!!! Downed powerlines, state of emergency in Buffalo and all surrounding suburbs, driving ban, the works.

Here's a video : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lB6LtDFtpo

Check out some of these photos:

Thursday, 10/12/06 8:30 pm

We then received a call from our friend Pauline, who was stranded and without power amidst worst damage in the town next to us. Her husband was out of town so we drove and rescued her. It was a scary drive over there, we had to drive around enormous tree limbs, abandoned cars, and at one point we barely made it under a drooping power line.

10/13/06 early morning. Look at the criss crossed power lines!

Keith went out to help the folks at the apartment complex next door remove debris.

This is our back porch today!

We have power, but over 300,000 people do not. Nobody is allowed to go anywhere, everything is closed. There is a restriction on water usage- essentials only, no dishwasher, washing machine, etc.

But we are making the best of it! Maybe I'll work on some knitting :). And cleaning. And praying. We are so thankful that we were home and ok!

Paws in the Park

2006-10-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

While I ran my 20 mile training run, Keith and Mercy were in a race of their own! Paws in the Park!

Here they are taking off at the starting line!

And in the homestretch... it looks like Keith and Mercy are in the lead! No other dog in sight! (Why people ran the race without a dog I 'm not sure...)

THEY WON! MERCY AND KEITH WON!!!

They were interviewed and everything. I am such a proud wife an mama. Our little yorkie and my husband was the fastest team out there! I think they might go on the man-dog race circuit- if such a thing exists!

And here is the rest of our team- Jimmy Paws II. I showed up after the race was over, after my training run. But Keith Mercy and I ended up walking the course again with the rest of our team. Its was a great day.

My 20.4, don't forget the .4, run was not as hard as the 18 miler two weeks ago. Maybe I wasn't as sore because I walked around for a while at the park, maybe I am just getting in shape. Either way, I feel awesome and relieved that 20 miles didn't cause me much pain.

It's fall already!

2006-09-29T19:24:00.000-05:00

The weather has been brisk and fall is definitely in the air!

Earthy scents and colors are starting to fill our home...

Two of these decorations were handmade and two of these were bought! Can you tell? )

I stopped at a lovely yarn shop, Have Ewe Any Wool, on the way home. I have run past this shop several times, but was too sweaty and without money to go in! What a treasure! I am so glad I went in. I was able to sit and knit with a new friend and even pick up some extra yarn for the baby matinee coat, which I didn't buy enough for originally. Have Ewe Any Wool has the most beautiful selection of yarn- all of the best! I was thoroughly impressed. They have "Knitfest" the first Friday of every month from 7-9, bring your projects, a dish to pass and let the fun begin! I hope to go next week.

Socktoberfest kicks off Sunday. I'm ready. I've started. I hope to have enough progress to post!

Joining away

2006-09-27T19:07:00.000-05:00

Looks like I have been going through a little bit of swap withdrawal as project Colorswap has come to a close. Lynne, the mastermind of Project Colorswap brought together such a wonderful bunch of people in this swap. I enjoyed every month! My partners were Lori in May, Amanda in June, Karla in July, Juli in August, and Dyann in September! Thank you ladies for making my first swap so enjoyable!

Now... onto the swap and rings....

I have joined Beth's Handmade Christmas Gift Swap- which will be awesome, I am sure. Plus I will be reminded to shop early, bake early, and get those Christmas cards our early- or so I hope!?
And I have, eh hem, joined Socktoberfest! After receiving such incredibly beautiful sock yarn from Juli, I just have to get a pair on the needles. I have a half finished sock for my husband that is from knitty... I may try to ressurrect that as well!

Onto running... the marathon is less than a month away- I can't believe it. I just recently learned that Oprah ran 4:30. I don't know if I can beat her time!? I want to though. I have this mentality that if Oprah could run a marathon, so could I!!! Well, my course will be much more hilly than the one that she ran, so if I don't make it, I can always try again at the Buffalo Marathon in May. I guess that means I will have to run outside during the winter. BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR.

Packages in the mail make me smile!!!

2006-09-24T06:24:00.000-05:00

Isn't it the greatest feeling to come home after a long day and find that there is a package on your front stoop?

My Stork harn arrived last Monday after such a day. And yes, there is a thermometer in the background. I didn't feel well at all! But I was able to sit on the couch and cast on for the baby matinee coat.

Then Friday, after a confusion and stressful filled two days of coordinating transportation for my father to get his cancer treatment and all the extras involved in medical care, I came home to find that my dear Colorswap partner, Dyann, had sent her gift at just the right time to pick me up! Funny how that happens, huh?

So, in this package of wonderful pink and red-ness was three hanks of luch Berooco Softwist, a hank of Cascade Sierra cotton/wool blend- I can't believe how soft these are! Dyann, you really know your fiber!

Then you will see some beautiful paper in different shades of pink and mulberry paper too! A candle, a felted cup and saucer... hand made earring and a handmade mug.

You can even see her signature on the bottom or the mug. Wow! I have never been given such a beautiful mug! And the earrings... I went to work on Friday with a pink sweater on and as I was perusing my jewelry, I thought to myself that I didn't have any pink earrings and that i'd like some. And Viola! They appeared!

Thank you Dyann!

18 miles down, 26.3 to go

2006-09-18T20:30:00.000-05:00

I ran my 18 miles on Saturday in 3.5 hours. It hurt. Really bad. I felt like my legs were going to literally break and I would have to crawl back to my car. But I did it! I ran the whole thing.

I was praying the whole time too, with a whole lot of that prayer devoted to asking the Lord to make my knees numb so it wouldn't hurt so bad!

The last 2-3 miles I becam aware of an intense hunger I had. I had probably burned 600 calories an hour, and at 3 hours into the thing, I had burned 1800 calories, which is equivalent to a day's intake. So I was fantisizing about food. I was SO hungry. All I could think about was where and what I was going to eat when I got home. Unbelievable.

This Saturday is a short run- 12 miles. Next Saturday is my 20 miler. I am so amazed at what the human body can do. Its incredible.

2006-09-14T19:16:00.000-05:00

Mercy and I went running today. Short run- 4 miles. The big one is coming soon. Saturday. 18. miles. Long Long way. I don't even drive 18 miles in a day!!!

The Yarn store was open!!!! Hooray! Here are two of the things I
picked up:

Addi turbos size 3 (smallest size I have ever used) and Debbie Bliss Cashmerino in PINK! I don't even know what I am going to make with it- but it's pink! And it was 30% off! And I have heard so much about Debbie Bliss!

The rest of the items I purchased at my LYS... I'll have to keep a secret- they are for my colorswap pal Dyann

I think her package will be all wrapped up this weekend and in the mail Monday.

The addi's are for the baby sweater that I just ordered yarn for yesterday (see picture from yesterdays post). Dale of Norway Stork. Wow, I am getting yarn culture!

Speaking of culture, watch this lesson in Martha's Vineyard culture

And don't for get to RSVP! LOL!!!

Strike one, strike two, strike three...

2006-09-13T20:27:00.000-05:00

I have been driving all around this evening in search of yarn. And my local yarn stores are not open.

I went to the one that is one mile east of me. Closes at 6 on Wednesdays.

I went to the one that is 2 miles west of my house. Closes at 5 on Wednesdays.

I went to the one that is 13 miles north of my house. Closes at 6 on Wednesdays!!!!!!!

I think I need to start carrying around a schedule for all of the yarn stores in my area. I actually went to a big box store (aka Joanne's) and found no yarn to my liking. What a waste of gasoline!!! (The photo is actually from last summer when Keith & I drove up Pacific Highway from San Diego to San Francisco. I don't think I would have minded as much if I was running around to store out in California w/ a convertible!!!)

Oh well! I will try try again tomorrow.

I am thinking about making this for some friends of our who are having a baby next week! The pattern is for 6-9 months, so I figure I have time to complete it!!!

One month, one week and three days!

2006-09-12T19:04:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that the marathon is in ONE-MONTH-ONE-WEEK-AND-THREE-DAYS !!! It seems unbelievable!!! I have come so far, from only being able to run 3 or four miles at a time to crank out 10, 12, 14..... no problem. This weekend is a big step. 18 miles. LORD help me!

Thankfully, my coaches turned me onto CLIFSHOTS, which are these glucose energy replacement things that you take after 1 hr of excercise. They really make a difference! So 18 miles equates to 3-4 clifshots. Whoa!

I ran with the little Mercy today, just 5 miles, and home just in the knick of time before the heavens opened up and rain came pouring down.

Sadly, I came home to a culinary disaster. I had placed a top round roast in my crockpot, threw in a can of cream of mushroom soup, some mushrooms, and let 'er simmer all day long.

The mushrooms burned. The whole house smelled awful. I tried to doctor is up by removing the beef from the mushroom muck and creating a shredded beef a-la-Sue-Bee-Honey-BBQ sauce. I'm sure my hubby will like it. He always like my culinary disasters.

I think the most devastating culinary disasters, for me anyway, are those of the crockpot method. About two years ago, right after Keith & I got married, I had a culinary crockpot catastrophe.

I had a recipe for New England Clam chowder. I was SO excited. I followed the directions and let it simmer all day. Then, after I got home, I was supposed to add the evaporated milk & the potatoes for the last half hour of cooking.

As I was pouring the evaporated milk into the pot, ontop of the carefully diced potatoes, I noticed that the milk was thicker than I had remembered it. Oh well, I just kept stirring. Then I looked at the can. It was SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK, not evaporated milk. YUCK! The whole soup tasted sweet. Gross! I was so upset. I couldn't believe it! I had been looking forward to serving this to my husband all day. And it was ruined.

Of course I fell into a sobbing heap on the floor. I was a newlywed after all! I cried when I broke my first mug that we had from our wedding, too!

My husband ran to my rescue, insisting that it tasted fine. That it tasted great. He scooped himself two bowlfuls and ate it. I refused to eat the tainted chowder. But my husband made me feel so much better.

A few weeks later, when I tried again and conquered the recipe, as we were sitting at the table, my husband smiled at me and said, "mmm it's good but I think it could use some sugar." How cute.

So I'm hoping for that same cuteness tonight, that BBQ shredded beef is good too!

2006-09-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

We took my brother to college last weekend. And we thought we lost our camera, but we found it today! It took us nine hours to drive to DC in my mother's Mercury Sable.

Doesn't my mom look happy all scrunched up in the back seat?

Mike sure was excited.

The car was packed to the absolute max. I can't believe how much stuff my brother took with him. AND he shipped 5 boxes down there!!!!!!!!! My mom & I were in the back seat, with luggage piled up in between us. We could hardly see each other. Her feet were propped up on a box and she kept getting leg cramps from it, so we'd have to stop periodically so she could walk around.

Tropical Strom Ernesto was right in our path to DC. Thankfully my hubby drove and stays very calm during even the wildest of situations!

We saw the monuments in DC at night and we had the greatest dinner at the Wharf. See the size of those shrimp?

I had never seen the White House before. I wish I could have gone inside, I bet it's breathtaking!

And of course, I got a little knitting in- while we were driving. I finished the back of Sizzle and started on the front. I've got to step on the gas on this one- it's starting to feel like fall!!!!!!

Mercy is lounging around, lightly sleeping. I think she is wondering when I will be knitting her a new sweater!

Fall projects? Hmmm. I don't know where to begin! Any ideas?

Happy Anniversary

2006-09-07T17:15:00.000-05:00

Our engagement photo...

our wedding...

and our adventures...

geocaching

clowning around at the corn maize

Manhattan Beach, CA

more geocaching

"I thank my God upon every remembrance of you"- Phillipians 1:3

My adoring husband, happy anniversary! I stand amazed at what the Lord has done!

Travelling...

2006-08-31T22:13:00.000-05:00

So we are leaving tomorrow in the wee hours to take my brother to college. The freshman drop-off. I can't believe it! I sound so old, but it really did seem like yestreday that he was running around and shouting down manholes for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (yes, he really did do that!).

So he's enrolled at George Washington University and this will be my first visit to DC!

I also have a 16 mile run to do, so hopefully we can map it out to run along these memorials!

I don't know if there will be any yarn store stops, but I will be working on the Sizzle Tank for sure! Maybe, just maybe it will be done when I get home!

2006-08-24T19:10:00.000-05:00

Here we are at a friend's wedding on Lake Ontario a few weeks ago. That day I ran 10 miles. I can't believe I am doing all this running and I'm not stick thin yet! AhhhH! Gotta get up early in the morning and get to the gym to lift.

I feel like losing weight is a full time job. And my real job makes it really hard to lose weight. We are constantly surrounded by wonderful tasting, but fatty and loader with sugary food. And a TON of it!!!

Oh well, guess I better just keep trying.

2006-08-23T18:51:00.000-05:00

Keith, Lynne, & JR looking for cache.

We had a visit with Lynne and her husband this past Sunday. They were so gracious to send donated items home with us for our garage sale we are having Sunday to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

We also had the opportunity to introduce Lynne and JR to geocaching! For those who do not know, geocaching is:

"an entertaining adventure game for gps users. Participating in a cache hunt is a good way to take advantage of the wonderful features and capability of a gps unit. The basic idea is to have individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the internet. GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. All the visitor is asked to do is if they get something they should try to leave something for the cache."

And guess who found the micro-cache? Miss Lynne herself! It looks like someone will be on EBAY perusing the GPS linstings soon!

One of the really neat things about geocaching is taht it takes you to locations taht locals know about, but your avereage tourist or visitor does not. We have even found awesome places in our own town that we didn't know about! There's a castle near us that I never knew existed- and I grew up around here!!!
Lynne, we're glad we got to introduce the sport to you!

August Colorswap has arrived!!!

2006-08-17T20:57:00.000-05:00

Look at what arrived today!!!

My August Colorswap Package!!!

Inside this lovely package from Juli was an amazing array of yarn!!! She sent me three skeins of Lambs Pride in a yummy charcoal color- just perfect for a fall neutral felted bag I think. Awesome! I received skeins of Fortissima colori socka color- some pretty funky sock yarn that makes me want to cast on for a pair of socks ASAP! (I just need a pattern). Then I got Peaches & creme cotton- straight from the mill! I can't believe how I've been blessed! Thank you Juli! You have increased my stash! And my desire to make socks!!!

Juli also sent me some wonderful teas and coffee- mmmm my favorite! I just can't start the day without my coffee! A pair of cute coffee & cookie hand towels for the kitchen, some recipe cards, and a wonderful smelling candle & votive holder rounded out the incredible package.

Thank you Juli! I can't believe the wonderful things you have sent! I hope that you enjoy your package!!!

Medical Update

2006-08-17T17:23:00.000-05:00

August 16th Medical Update- in an ironic turn of events, my father was diagnosed yesterday with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. We spent the majority of the day at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, meeting with doctors, discussing treatment options and having more tests done. He will be starting chemotherapy soon.

I never dreamed that cancer could hit so close to home... or that my family would be ones to seek help from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I just thought that I would be helping other people by my participation in Team In Training.

Now, more than ever, do I understand the importance of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I feel a lot better knowing that there is an organization like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society whose mission is to find a cure and help patients and families face cancer.

You can support my efforts to raise money for cancer research here.

2006-08-10T20:54:00.000-05:00

Before...

AFTER!!!

Yes, the little Mercy went to the groomers today, while I went to get MY hair done! She is beautiful and after a day of playing with other dogs, being bathed, trimmed, dried, and put up in a pretty lil bow she was kind of tired.

So I let her take a nice little nap, while I readied the house for my in-laws, whose plane we are waiting to arrive, then Mercy and I ran 4 miles. The fastest four miles ever. And up two hills to boot! WOOO HOOO Marathon here I come!!!!!

While I was being pampered today at the hair salon I was able to do THIS:

Yes, my friends. Behold... Sizzle. Well, almost a third of the back of sizzle, so that would be like almost 1/3 of half, so that would be 1/6th of Sizzle. I think. I already used one whole skein of yarn. Woo hoo there is hope for this one!

And the progress on the edging of my lace project!

I missed my deadline on this one... but it was too difficult for me with all the projects we've had going on.

Looks like I am close to the finish line!!!!!!!!!!!!

Look what arrived!

2006-08-04T17:55:00.000-05:00

Look at what I got in the mail! (The yarn, not the dog)

Can you just see the excitement on Mercy's face?

She just wanted to nestle in the soft hydrangea yarn, Shine Sport to be exact. Don't you think it goes well with her complexion?

Here is it up close & personal. Soon it will become "Sizzle". And I can't wait.

I have to admit, I was SOOOOOOOO thrilled to get home today from work, after the most challenging week at work I have ever experienced, to see a package in my mailbox from knitpicks. AND a check for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. AND NO BILLS! It was awesome!

After my run tomorrow and a bridal shower in the early afternoon, I am hereby declaring that I will knit for the rest of the day. I need it.

2006-08-04T06:21:00.000-05:00

Sleeping in the sun...

Mercy went running with me yesterday- a short 4 miles in the evening. Thankfully it was cool as the rain clouds were coming in. We got home just as it started to rain... not that we really would have minded getting wet after huffing and puffing for a few miles.

New Button!!!!

2006-08-01T20:18:00.000-05:00

Yes! I have a new button- the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training. Click it and you will be taken to my fundraising site for the L & L society.

Training has been tough- I ran 10 miles Sunday morning and it wiped me out for a few days.

No news on the knitting front... home improvement projects have taken over for the present...

BBQ in the garage!

2006-07-31T06:03:00.000-05:00

It rained on the barbeque Saturday night. No, poured. I sent my hubby and my brother to the store to pick up a few things while I prepped dinner... I started the little grill with the charcoal. The flame was buring nice and then the sky opened up! We all worked hard to save the grill and the boys ended up in the garage grillinng salmon & veggies! We were all soaked but it was fun.

July Swap Updates and August Swap Questionaire

2006-07-31T05:49:00.000-05:00

Just a few pics of some of the wonderful things that Karla, my July swap partner, sent me. Thank you Karla! I especially love my little Yorkie note cards- Mercy thinks they are cute too! The yarns are the most interesting I have ever seen- one is this superfun confetti yarn and the other is like 3 yarns in one.... gorgeous, darling, just GORGEOUS!!! And Karla, as you can see, the angel bookmark now holds my place in my inspirational reading!

The verse I am holding to now is Isaiah 40:31-

But those who wait on the LORD
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

Especially with how much I have been RUNNING lately! I ran 10 yesterday, Mercy ran 8 while Keith rolloerbladed.

And now..........

August swap is starting up!

Are you crafty? I'd like to think so!

Would you enjoy things like: Buttons, ribbons and
embellishments?

I love them all, just don't know how to use them...
Do you dye your own wool? No, not yet. I'd be open to trying though...

Do you like to scrapbook or make homemade cards? Yes and Yes

What are your favorite scents? Coconut, Vanilla, Honeydew melon, COFFEE!!!

Do you like stationary and cards? I'd say I have a minor addiction to stationary... nothing like a handwritten note on beautiful paper with pretty ink and a matching envelope!!!

Do you like to sew or embroider items? I am learning to sew. I need more time to do crafts! Forget adulthood and responsibility...

Do you like beads? I like beads when they are on necklaces and earrings....

What kind of candy do you like? Chocolate, coffee, caramel, mint...any combination of these, although I am in full on training mode and should stay away from the sweets...

Do you like hand lotions or soaps? I love little scented soaps. My hubby bought me a mini set from Bath & Body works with a sampler of five different body washes- everything from cocnut to clementine... it was the greatest! You had enough to get a little taste, but not too much to be bored of the scent...

Do you like to wear costume jewelry? Necklace,
earrings, bracelets etc. HMMMM yes!

Do you like to make/or use stitch markers? I have made stitch markers before. I have not used the ones I have gotten yet. I am supposedly starting a new project soon... maybe I will try then!

Do you collect anything? I guess I collect dog toys... I have way too many for our dog, the worlds cutest Yorkie. ACTUALLY, I collect Willow Tree figurines. I think they are so beautiful. I have Angel of Winter, Angel of the Kitchen, and Promise. I want them all!!!

Do you have any allergies?: Smoke, food, fiber, pets,
etc. I am incredibly allergic to nuts. NO nuts for me. Or I will die.

Do you have any hobbies? I like to run & read, garden what little soil I have, geocache, cook, play with our dog... I like working towards a goal.

Do you like scented or unscented candles? Scented.

Are you a fiber snob? MMMM no.

Do you like to play cards or board games? This is something that I would like to learn to do...

Do you like neon colors, pastel, light or medium
ranges in the color of the month? Well, I have never heard of neon neutrals...

Do you like kitchen magnets or key rings? of course. yorkies are a plus!

Do you like picture frames? I love picture frames. I actually am in need of some wood picture frames.... I want to paint them all one color and make a wall collage!

Night night for now!

Sleepy like me....

2006-07-25T20:47:00.000-05:00

How I want to just curl up like Mercy and sleep!

I do have a new project on the way- the sizzle tank-top from Knint & Tonic. I ordered my supplies a few days ago....

I ran 5 miles this morning.... up 2 LONG hills. Pilates was more difficult this evening than ever before. My legs just would NOT move the way my brain kept telling them to....

The shawl

2006-07-24T21:11:00.000-05:00

My border DOES NOT look like the border in the picture... So I scoured the pattern and to my surprise, I knit it correctly. Let's hope that the blocking fairy will help me... and that the knitting fairy will help me get this thing DONE before the double wedding weekend!!!

Almost there...

2006-07-22T13:34:00.000-05:00

October 22, 2006....

Please support me and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!!! My fundraising site is here

I ran 8 miles this morning at 7 am. 8 MILES! A new personal record- I had never before in my life run that far... and next week I get to go 10 miles on Saturday! I felt pretty good and finished strong.

I followed my tradition of stopping for Tim Horton's coffee on the way home and when I got out of the car to get my coffee, I was incredibly stiff. I was thinking about how much my body will hurt AFTER the marathon- but the soreness is worth it.

My whole day was pretty much shot, as I am utterly exhausted. Hopefully some RedBull will help before we go to a little BBQ.

Hot Hot Hot

2006-07-18T17:56:00.000-05:00

It has been just sweltering outside- I feel like I am running in a sauna. A minute three miles yesterday, but 5 on the plate for today. My dear hubby phoned a friend who's home is on our route (at mile 3) and they are leaving out some H2O and dixie cups. Have to practice water stations, you know!

Tomorrow is the day that I learn to finish the Meg Swanson Shawl! I can't wait!!!! After our run, I will swiftly be showering and parking myself somewhere to ensure that I am ready to start the edging tomorrow... oooooo I can't wait- did I mention that?

I really need to get back in the groove w/ knitting- I have no other projects that I am working on right now. Maybe Lynne will have some ideas tomorrow. :)

Four Weeks Down, Fourteen to Go!

2006-07-15T10:36:00.000-05:00

BEHOLD.... my new shoes! We picked up the running sneakers last weekend at Fleet Feet and the spinning shoes were purchased at this awesome bike shop, Handlebars. Let me tell you, to those of y'all who have tried spinning without spin shoes that clip onto the pedals- you don't know what you are missing. I felt like I could push the pedals with twice as much power and efficiency- plus you use your hamstrings alot more pulling up.

Yesterday was the 7 miler w/ hills. OUCH! As I was trekking up the last hill with a half mile to go the song that was playing on my MP3 player was "Help is on the Way"! I was trying to sing along to it asking the Lord for help to finish this run! AND HE did help me finish! Thank you Jesus. The hills were steep! Next week's long run is 8 miles.

I will be starting the edging of my shawl this week- I am meeting up with Lynne Wednesday and she is going to show me! I can't wait to finish it- I just need an outfit to wear it with. I was thinking along the lines of the simple black dress... I think I have 4 of those!

Well, Im off to prep for the week! Have a good night.

Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!

2006-06-30T06:06:00.000-05:00

I buzzed home from work yesterday to pick up my camera and what to my wondering eyes should appear but...My colorswap!!!

How awesome! Thank you Amanda!!!

Well, we're off to camp for the loooong weekend. See y'all when we get back!

My tiny training partner

2006-06-21T20:13:00.000-05:00

Here she is! All tired from our run. I love that she is calm and restful after we get back... but then she gets her second wind and thinks it is time to play while I did pilates...

We ran 2 miles yesterday... in great time!!! 19:20 , but when you subtract out the thirty seconds at the traffic light, about ten or so when I dropped the leash, another 20 for pooper patrol, etc, etc, you end up with about 18 min... which equates to nine minute miles. One of the reasons why I love running with Mercy is that she makes me go fast on days that I can and she makes me go slow on those days when I just need a slow even jog. I did a pilates video when I got home, but still, nothing compares to my Thursday and Saturday classes I attend at the GYM.

I knit three rows and had to rip one back, which took me FOREVER! Lace is one of those htings where I need complete silence when partially frogging... I am getting closer to my goal of completing the shawl before purchasing yarn for my Rowan-knit-on-toothpick-needles-sweater. The yarn I am looking at the the merino knitpicks dye-your-own fingering weight. If I could decide on a color, I'd go with Koigu, but then my clothing budget would be compromised...

Team in Training Progress

2006-06-20T21:25:00.000-05:00

The training has begun! I successfully completed Day 2- which was comprised of a measly 2.5 miles (I ran 2.6 in 25:18, whoa slowpoke). One of these days I will hopefully figure out how to make a calendar on my blog to track my progress.

By the way.... please visit my fundraising site!
I don't have any pictures up yet because, well, I don't exactly like the way I look right now. Bout 30 pounds too many. But one of these day, my hubby will snap a pic and I will be ok with it. But PLEASE, consider donating to the leukemia and lymphoma society and tell your friends! My goal is to raise at least $4,000 (I need that much to be eligible to run the marathon) but in my head, I'd like to double that!

On the knitting front... I ran out of yarn for my brown textured check square, leaving me in a predicament- do I buy more yarn or just bag the project? I did knit a couple of rows on my shawl- the goal is to have it completed & blocked in time for a two wedding weekend in August. I am sure I can make it. I have a month and a half.

Amanda, your colorswap package is on the way!!!! And there's a little treat for Miss Zoey from Miss Mercy. Woof. Woof!

A little bit of everything.

2006-06-12T20:03:00.000-05:00

It's been a while, hasn't it! Like a week! Well, that's what being semi- responsible will get ya! Although the laundry is not done....
I didn't share our Memorial Day Parade pictures. We live in this awesome little village and there has been a parade every year for the past 150 years I think. The "Rough and Ready" Fire department celebrated its 150th anniversary. So here's the Celtic Band, complete with bagpipes and men in skirts...

And here's Keith and Mercy in front of our Municipal Building.

We also worked on our office/ guest room. We took our old couch out and gave it to my dad. But guess who we found hiding in between the pillows!!!

She's a cutie, I know, but we have been having some behavior issues. Barking for attention. CONSTANTLY. Which she usually gets because her bark is PAINFULLY SHRILL and makes my brain hurt. But we met with an awesome dog trainer and the plan for the next week is to completely ignore the barking and see if it decreases by the weekend. Apparently it will get worse before it gets better. So I'm wearing earplugs. As we speak. We also have some walking issues and we need to work on down stays outside to gain her attention in areas of high distractionn before we can actually walk. Exercise for the meantime is running around a field or park on a 50 to 100 ft. rope. Let me tell you that the entire world is laughing at me when I strut over to the park with my six pound dog and she goes running around on a 50 ft blaze orange hunting rope. I will keep y'all posted on her progress. Today we went to a wildlife sanctuary type place. I found a slug on her knee when we got home. I don't think we will be going back THERE!

Two and a half squares. Notice that the blue square, although I followed the directions and have the right amount of stitches, is remarkably thinner than the upper brown one. Oh dear. I think this may be a pillow and not an afghan. We shall see.

FINALLY, I decided to join a group called TEAM IN TRAINING . It's an endurance sport training program that fundraises for leukemia and lymphoma research. I signed up to run the Nike Women's marathon and need to raise $4,000 to go. 75% of every dollar goes to the mission of finding a cure for blood cancers. I am really excited and nervous about this! I know that God has placed this on my heart, not only to train for a marathon, but to make a difference in someone's life who has been affected by blood cancer. Training starts Sunday on my own and then we have weekly long runs with the team. I will be using my blog to track my progress. I will also have a team in training fundraising site that I hope will help raise the dollars! Stay tuned for more on this.

Off to get ready for bed and pack for the gym! Training Training Training!!!

Two squares down, Two million to go

2006-06-05T18:22:00.000-05:00

I finished square #2 for the office/guest room afghan. And I feel as though I may never finish. Not to mention that I have found other yarn that I think I like better! Oh dear- to press on with the current yarn or to switch to a new one and new color scheme..... Hmmmm. THAT IS THE QUESTION!

Project Colorswap is gearing up for the month of June, and I couldn't be more excited. I had such a fun time putting together and receiving a May package! Now it's my FAVORITE color! BLUE! So many of my favorite things are blue- my hubby's eyes, my eyes, the sky, ocean, my old bedroom growing up, our bedroom now, half of our sheet sets, bluebirds, blue bells... At one point in my life most of my wardrobe was blue. It happens to be one of my colors. I think that anyone with blue eyes tends to favor the way a blue shirt just makes your eyes vibrant. If I had more time to knit and could knit faster, I would knit myself a blue sweater. For now, I aspire to make 2 sweaters, the josephine and the rose sweater from the Rowan book (see previous posts). Then maybe an hourglass type sweater in blue. Andean silk blue. MMMMM.

To date, I have the following projects on the needles:

Meg Swanson Shawl- 70% done
Keith's socks...... ummm what does one cuff equate to? 15%?
Green cabled purse

Wow, that's it! I think I need to do some strategy for my afghan and perhaps cast another square on tonight.

What we go through for beauty...

2006-05-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

We primp. We preen. We spend tons of money of beauty products. We go through elaborate processes at the salon to tweak our color or slim our brows... We spend hours at the gym, sweatin' to lose weight... and yet here is my dog, no bows, no frills, no makeup, just the way God made her. Hmmmmf. Maybe I shouldn't be so critical of how He made me! Aww little Mercy, sorry but you were stinky! Too much swamp land for you!!!

The Triple Threat

2006-05-25T21:15:00.000-05:00

Okay- I can say that I officially exercised to the max yesterday. First off, I biked to the gym, with my size GINORMO bag that used to be my soccer bag as a kid. Try biking with another 35 punds on your back.

I arrived at the gym BEFORE it opened at 6 am. I don't remember that happenning very often. I then RAN 4 miles on the treadmill, stretched and did situps, etc. I showered at the gym, did the makeup, put on a NEW gym-like outfit and BIKED another .65 miles to the office.

Once at the office, I dried my hair in the bathroom, changed, and spritzed on a lil body splash. I did it! I biked to work! And the gym! And I had an extra half-hour.

Then after a long day at work, I hopped in my coworker's awesome solara convertible (she gets to drive fun cars all the time- her husband owns a dealership) and we went to a pilates class for an hour (The bike would not fit in her car and Pilates was 5.5 miles away). My wonderful hubby came to the pilates studio with Mercy baby and brought me back to the office to get the bike.

We decided that the bike would not fit into our car without the possibility of falling out of the trunk into traffic sooooo..... dear hubby rode the bike the 2.3 miles home with Mercy running alongside/ in front of him. Apparently he will never do this again, I am told, as the puppy kept zigzagging causing chaos. Mercy- cause chaos? Nooo......

Speaking of the puppy.... does anyone's dog do this with their toys? Note the stuffing strewn nall over the room... Sometimes I will walk into a room and see "snow" everywhere- the stuffing of a toy. Aww Mercy, you're a mischevious dog but we love you! Can't wait for the dog trainer to help us with your walking outside issues!

New York City

2006-05-24T20:44:00.000-05:00

S0...we went to New York City this past weekend- and had a blast! We stayed in this great hotel that was SO close to everything in midtown. We were 3 blocks from Central Park, about 8 from Times Square- it was awesome!

We traipsed all over the city and visited 2 yarn shops, the one pictured here is me in front of Purl, a hip place in Soho. Do they have a great stash of premium fiber! Wow!

We also visited a yarn shop on Madison Ave called "The Yarn Connection", where I purchased a Rowan magazine.

I found this pretty summer sweater that I think I might just try. It's quite and investment.... the yarn is pretty pricey and it is done on size 1,2, & 3 needles. Uh, can you say toothpicks? I think I will purchase Addi's in those sizes. Supposedly they make you knit faster. SUPPOSEDLY.

Finally, I did do some knittin' on the trip. I decided to bring a lil portable project, like the afghan squares for the office/ guest room. The colors are a cocoa brown, sky blue, and I think I want to find a cream/ taupe color. We just purchased a futon to put in the office for when my in-laws come out to visit this summer and this will pretty much go with the color scheme of bed linens and curtains. Plus, it's not too femme for Keith and he will still be able to keep the car photos & paraphenalia up.

Did I mention that I will be (weather permitting) diving into the world of bicycle communting tomorrow? I just need air in the tires, but I donn't know where the air pump is.

Well, I must be going, I have to go watch the Sabres win!

My swap has arrived!!!

2006-05-17T22:04:00.000-05:00

Yes, my May colorswap package arrived. And on a perfect day, no less. I received it Monday afternoon, while I was home sick with some awful throat/ nose/ yuckiness sleeping the day away while intermittenly working on my lace shawl. I let Mercy out and she bumped into a package! I was so excited in my cold medicined stupor!

Such beautiful handmade treasures! Look at the handspun yarn! And there are mohair locks that are green with directions to make what sounds like a pretty funky scarf. There was some chocolate.... but that didn't last too long.

What a great swap! Thank you Lori !

On my no-good-terrible-feel sick day I was well enough for a few hours to knit- and I went through my first ball of yarn on my Meg Swanson shawl. Yes, 440 yds. Or a quarter mile. No Wonder why it takes to stinkin long to wind it into a ball!!! So here I am, day three of winding in between everything else. I am almost to the edging. Almost. Super close. 6 rows of 8 to go. I can see the light. Horray!

Some great news! My dear hubby has a meeting in the big apple on Friday and I am going too! We are staying for the weekend and are looking forward to a weekend in the city that never sleeps. :) We'll be looking for some fun yarn shops and chic doggy boutiques (although Mercy baby is going to "camp grandma" for the weekend) in addition to exploring Central Park and hopefully doing the cheesy touristy thing and go on a ferry ride, do the double decker tour bus thing, wave like a maniac in Times square in front of a morning news show, and maybe bump into some celebrities. I can't wait.

The June colorswap is coming us... and it's blue.... one of my favs!

2006-05-10T19:07:00.000-05:00

How about that for some green, colorwappers!

Mercy and I "hit the trail" after I got home from work and hoofed, err pawed, it for an hour and a half!!! We walked down the trail, through the village, and ventured along the creek and stumbled upon a rather large park. There were many many trials to choose from and Mercy sure got a nose-ful of doggie gossip- sniffing everything!

We walked past Sweet Jennny's, the old fashioned candy-store in the village, which is where I bought their specialty- French Silk Chocolate- to put in the pink cabled purse I sent to my mother-in-law for Mother's Day.

The puppy was exhausted when we got back, a happy and tired dog.

I somewhat stuck to my diet today, the Southbeach Phase I, minus those annoying mints that are at my desk (the receptionist desk) that I don't even like but end up eating anyways. UGH! I did, however, actually PLAN out meals for me to eat for the next five days. So that's a step. Hopefully I will actually get up and go to the gym like I am supposed to tomorrow morning. Since Easter vacation, I just haven't gotten back into the early morning groove. I need to get my groove back. LOL!

As for now... I am going to dutifully pack my gym bag, make the hubby some dinner he can have when he gets home from his final exam, knit some lace, and read!

Works in Progress and A few Finished Items

2006-05-07T19:49:00.000-05:00

Awww, the Mercy baby with her fushia sweater from "Puppy Knits."

I know, she needs a hot pink bow.

The intarsia pillow from Weekend Knitting that is almost done BUT I think I am running out of black yarn tonight... AHHHHHHH.

MY NEW PURSE! It's a cable knit bag, knit on 11's with doubled-up bulky yarn. (I used sierra from Knnitpicks). We created the pattern ourselves in our knintting group. I opted for the two cables and a braided cable in the middle. I lined with a hot pink liner and VOILA! Homemade chicque.

AND Finally, the Meg Swanson shawl. My First attempt at lace- and I like it! I can't wait to finish. The only problem is, you can't multi-task and knit this girl. Only full and undivided attention. Like my dog. Oh, Mercy, have mercy!

Tagged by Lynne

2006-05-06T22:58:00.000-05:00

Lynne, you wonderful pal! Thanks for the tag. Here are my responses to the 7 x 7 meme:

Seven things to do before I die:

Run a marathon

Breed dogs.

Travel to Italy.
Backback through Europe.
Have children. A bunch!
Have a house wth a BIG yard to make gardens in.
Swim with dolphins.

Seven thing I cannot do:

Relax about the tidiness of the house.
Eat just one Pringle.
Pay full price for clothes.
Eat nuts (I'm allergic).
Skateboard.
Plant stuff outside (we live in a condo)
Leave the puppy home alone all day and night.

Seven things that attract me to my husband:

His dancing skills

He loves me unconditionally, because he loves God first.

His smile.

He makes me laugh.

He gives the best hugs and back massages.

He always listens.

He is SO handsome and lovable!!!!!!! He is God's perfect gift to me.

Seven books that I love:

My Bible

Redemption Remember Return Rejoice Remember (All by Karen Kingsbury)

Firstborn series (Kingsbury)

Seven Things I say:

Goodmorning, thank you for calling ABC Corporation.

I'm sorry, but he's in a meeting right nonw, would you like his voicemail?

No Worries!

Like

Uhm

Love you!

Mercy NO!

Seven movies I have loved:

Three Amigos Hitch Best in Show Zoolander Office Space

Walk the Line.

Mercy's sun spot

2006-05-06T06:59:00.000-05:00

This is one of Mercy's favorite spots in the house- where the sunlight pours in through the skylights in our living room. It's an old pic, she's WAY cuter and has more hair now, and attitude, but I thought I'd give ya'll a little glimpse at our furbaby.

To date, I have knit her three sweaters- one that was felted and we lost :(, a red cabled sweater, and a hot pink one! Yorkies don't have undercoats, so they get real cold in the winter and shake, rattle & roll. My dear hubby one time forgot to put a coat of some kind on her and it was 33 degrees outside and raining. The poor dog was shivering so bad he had to call me and have me pick them up.

I have been thinking about diving into the world of sweaters, after I finish my many WIP's... Lynne has inspired me to perhaps try the Josephine Sweater.

I would do it in cream, of course, as it would go with just about everything.

I don't think I want to be making anything for summer.... it would probably take me too long. I might as well just start on stuff for the fall! LOL.

This would be the never-ending MegSwanson Shawl. Hopefully I will take some pics of MINE soon. I am at the halfway mark, minus the edging, so I guess that makes me LESS than halfway. AHH!!!! I think I will be working on this baby today while knitting with the girls.

Well, I am off to do the dreaded housework! Why does it never end?

Have a wonderful day!

Welcome to my bistro

2006-05-04T06:32:00.000-05:00

Horray! I purchased the bistro table of my dreams last night. And the store had last week's sale price still on it and they honored it! Score! I can't wait to have it set up on my micro patio, sipping coffee with my hubby, barking dog and all.

I also went shopping for my Project Colorswap TEXT partner. This swap thing is so very exciting! I can't wait.

Speaking of the puppy, Mercy is currently digging at my sweatshirt that I wore on our morinng walk. Some residual scent of the coveted "Bill Jac" treats must remain in the pocket... For those who do not know, Mercy is our 1 year old yorkshire terrier (or yorkshire TERRORIST, whichever you prefer). She is our "furkid" and we love just about everything about her. Except the impolite walking. And barking. But Advanced Obedience is being offered this summer at our groomer's/ trainers' and I am thinking it would be wise to be there.

Baaaaaaaahhhh Puppy No! She's eating the doormat. Did I mention she wants our full and undivided attention? I just read Cesar Milan's book (the dog whisperer guy) and apparently I need to be a better pack leader. UGH.

I just got word that our camera will be fixed and shipped to us by the end of May- then I can figure out how to post pictures! Perhaps someone will let me borrow theirs in the mean time.

ENJOY your day!

Hmmm.... My first Post!

2006-05-03T13:56:00.000-05:00

Test! Does this really work?