Everyday Enchanting

I Think I'll Call Her Bella

2012-01-29T14:35:00.003-05:00

Bunny #2 is off the needles . . .

. . . and will soon be on her way to another baby shower !!!!

Love these bunnies !!

A New Nook

2012-01-23T19:42:00.003-05:00

This chair used to be in our mudroom/laundry room . . .

Marty used to perch on it & watch critters through the window !!

Now it's upstairs in my craft room . . . where it's clearly meant to be !!!

Love my new knitting nook !!!!

(and Marty can still perch on it & enjoy the view !)

It Happens Every January

2012-01-16T18:02:00.005-05:00

That would be the "floofing" of our Marty !

(He became known as a "floofer" when we combined "poofy" and "fluffer" !)

Each January, he starts to fluff out a little around the edges . . .

. . . and a little more . . .

By springtime, he's pretty fluffy indeed . . . !

And by summertime, he's a full-on woolly-mammoth !!

And then the big-time shedding begins . . .

all to bring us back to January again, for the floofing !!!

Love our "Little Bear" !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2012-01-02T21:24:00.003-05:00

They certainly are !!!!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-25T21:06:00.002-05:00

Homemade Holiday

2011-12-21T18:47:00.007-05:00

That's the kind I like best !

And it seems to be the trend in our office gift-giving, too. It's so much fun to

come up with new, creative, and frugal homemade gifts each year . . .

and to see what everyone else comes up with, too !

This year I've gotten homemade jams, jellies, caramel corn,

oreo bark, chocolate pops, and so on . . . great ideas !!

So here's my 2011 homemade nifty-gifty . . .

SO GOOD !!!

Only 12 more months to come up with next year's gifts . . . !!!

Fairy Lights & The Scent Of Pine

2011-12-12T18:37:00.000-05:00

Because My Dad's Tired Of The Purple String

2011-12-06T22:26:00.002-05:00

So I'll give ya some gray "string" instead !!

Just a fun little hat, fresh off the needles, on its way as a Christmas gift !!!

Ode To Stars Hollow

2011-11-22T08:49:00.002-05:00

" I don't even like kids. They're always sticky like they've got jam on

their hands. Even if there's no jam in the house, somehow, they've always

got jam on their hands ! I'm not the right guy to deal with that.

I have no patience for jam hands ! "

- Luke on "Gilmore Girls", getting ready for his 17 year-old

nephew to come live with him

I miss "Gilmore Girls" . . . such a great show !

And that was just one of the countless lines that made me laugh !

So when I picked out new yarn in a shade of plum . . .

I started thinking of jam . . .

and that line jumped into my head !!

And the "Jam Hands" sweater is on its way !!!

Brie For Me !

2011-11-10T21:46:00.003-05:00

It's finally done . . .

. . . and ready to wear !!!

Bring on the cool (just cool . . . not cold !) weather !!!

Behold, The Leaf Conqueror !

2011-11-06T14:59:00.003-05:00

Where'd October Go ?

2011-11-01T17:50:00.003-05:00

"Fallen leaves lying on the grass in the November

sun bring more happiness than the daffodils"

- Cyril Connolly -

Hello, November !!!!

I Finally Found My Cottage Industry

2011-10-18T18:43:00.004-05:00

Short & Dark

2011-10-17T21:14:00.005-05:00

These days, that would be my nails.

It seems that with all of the showers, dinners, weddings, and

brunches this summer (I dubbed it the "summer of the dress",

since I've never worn dresses so frequently !),

I rediscovered a bit of my girly-girl side !

More dresses have appeared in my wardrobe:

they're feminine . . . they hide a multitude of flaws

. . . and with a great pair of heels, they make me feel a little fierce !!!!

And after having a pre-wedding manicure in July,

I was reminded how great just a little color & shine can make you feel !

So most days now, my digits are sporting a

little extra oomph (DIY, of course !) . . . and I'm loving it !

(And it's not all dark colors . . . there are light shades, too !)

Happy (girly-girl) Monday !

OK, Pumpkin !

2011-10-05T17:39:00.006-05:00

It's October, and that means pumpkin recipes !!!! Yay !

Last night I tried this new one:

Cheese Ravioli with Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce

YUM !!! It was surprisingly light, with just a hint of pumpkin flavor

. . . great comfort food !!

Find the recipe here . . . and enjoy !!!

All About The Benjamin's

2011-10-02T15:19:00.003-05:00

(My nephew Ben & Benjamin Bunny)

Happy Monday !

I Got Nothin'

2011-09-26T17:31:00.004-05:00

Nothing new, exciting, or blog-worthy . . . but all's well !

Just a picture of an everyday moment . . .

(this is how I hold Leo while Jack gives him

his pills & eye drops . . . it's a team effort !)

Happy Monday !

What Retirement Will Look Like

2011-09-13T08:39:00.003-05:00

CP & B

2011-08-29T17:20:00.004-05:00

As in Cracked Pepper & Brie.

That's what popped into my head when I picked out

new yarn in a color called Cracked Pepper.

It instantly reminded me of college . . .

how my friends and I would occasionally have "fancy" snacks:

cracked pepper crackers with spreadable brie

(thank you, Allyson, for providing the yums !) . . .

and how that somehow made me feel a bit sophisticated !!!

Thus, we have the "Brie" sweater in the works !

This sweater will be anything but sophisticated . . .

just a nice, simple pullover with a bit of a cowl neck . . .

in a lovely gray perfect for fall & winter (eeek . . . even to say that word !)

To sweet memories and simple sweaters !!!

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-08-22T16:30:00.004-05:00

Just a few pictures taken this past Saturday while we were in Rockport, MA . . .

Always beautiful !!!!

Happy Monday !

Quiet On The Homefront

2011-08-17T18:03:00.002-05:00

14

2011-08-09T06:20:00.003-05:00

August 9, 1997

July 15, 2011

Pom-Pom Tails & Life Lessons

2011-08-02T18:04:00.005-05:00

I always have a picture in my mind of how I want a knitting project (or any project !) to turn out . . . and this little guy was no exception ! I rarely knit things for other people (don't necessarily want to push my hobby and taste on everyone else !) . . . but this is my first time becoming an aunt, and I HAD to make something for my yet-to-arrive nephew !!!

This knitting project was new and fun . . . and frustrating !! I just couldn't get the sweater the way I'd envisioned it !!! I tried several different techniques and asked one of my knitting/seamstress co-workers for suggestions . . . but in the end, I had to punt !

And you know what ???!!

I'm really happy with the way it turned out !

So here he is . . . . Benjamin Bunny !

(named in honor of my nephew Benjamin !)

I just love that little face . . . and his pom-pom tail, too !

So I guess my yarn reminded me of a little life lesson:

things may not turn out like you'd envisioned,

but you might just end up appreciating & loving the result that much more !!!

Sunny Summer Saturday

2011-07-30T13:18:00.003-05:00

Farmers market . . . kitties sunning on the porch . . .

homemade gazpacho . . . .

PERFECTION !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-07-25T18:00:00.002-05:00

Just a cute little video I first saw on a favorite knitting blog . . .

"All you need is a girlfriend to get you started . . . !"

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-07-18T09:20:00.004-05:00

Another "Matrimony Monday" today . . .

. . . Don't those smiles just say it all ???!?!!!!

Congratulations Laura & Jonny !!!!

(cutest t-shirts ever !)

Happy Monday !!!

Bun-Bun's Galore

2011-07-13T16:56:00.003-05:00

When I was little, neighbors of ours had a pet rabbit named Bun-Bun.

And ever since, I've always referred to all rabbits as Bun-Bun !!!!

A few of them have been hanging around lately . . .

This guy seems to have made our yard his breakfast stop !

I'm not sure who enjoys watching him more: the cats or me !!!

And this little guy finally has all of his pieces put together . . .

. . . he just needs a tail (of course !) and a special sweater, and he's all done

(we'll properly introduce him once he's all finished !) !!!

"There goes Peter cottontail . . . !"

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-07-11T17:13:00.004-05:00

The smile of a groom catching sight of her . . .

. . . the smile of a beautiful bride . . .

. . . the smiles of the newly-declared Mr. & Mrs. . . . .

The best kind of smiles !!!

Congratulations Rick & Jessica !!!!

Happy (matrimony) Monday !!

Little Helpers

2011-07-08T07:01:00.003-05:00

So glad I busted my butt last night, cleaning and

laundering the guest bedroom things in preparation for guests . . .

only to find this scene this morning:

Crazy cats !!! They must think I did the clean-up just for them !!!

We Love Lazy Sunday's

2011-07-03T21:55:00.002-05:00

Bits & Pieces

2011-06-29T18:33:00.003-05:00

The knitting continues here at the Warren homestead . . . .

. . . but something a little different from my usual projects . . .

. . . something little for a little person (I'm not telling what it is, though !) !

Look out . . . Aunt Melissa's fingers are a flyin' !!!!

Hope it all turns out as cute as the picture in my mind

(and in time for my nephew's arrival) !!

Stay tuned !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-06-20T18:50:00.003-05:00

"I don't think any day is worth living without thinking

about what you're going to eat next at all times."

- Nora Ephron -

Another yummy recipe . . . Oreo cheesecake bars !!!!

Happy (sweet tooth) Monday !!!!

A Dose of PB & C

2011-06-16T06:19:00.003-05:00

Peanut butter & chocolate, that is !!

I'm not really a fan of peanut butter . . . but mixed with chocolate . . .

HEAVENLY !!

And so are these cupcakes . . .

(I made mine mini !)

Another great recipe find !!!!

Brown Sugar & Walnut

2011-06-09T18:25:00.006-05:00

Those are the colors of our new kitchen floor and backsplash . . .

and it's finally all done !!!! Love, love, love it !!!

Before:

After:

Before:

After (you get the idea !):

So happy (and thankful) !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-06-06T17:54:00.011-05:00

I head off to work in the morning like this . . .

. . . fluffed and put-together and generally ready for the day.

But lately I've come home feeling like this:

. . . . beat up & put through the ringer !!!! Ugh !

Working with the public is definitely wearing me down !

I'm just exhausted lately by stories & excuses & lies, drama & trauma,

and endless begging and blaming !!! Phew !

So, today I need a good laugh (or two !) !!!

Here are links to 2 videos that always deliver !

WARNING: THE FOLLOWING VIDEOS CONTAIN

BAD LANGUAGE & CRUDE HUMOR . . . .

CONSIDER YOURSELF WARNED !!!!!!

- I posted this one a few years ago . . . an oldie but goodie !!!

- Love this one, too !

Happy (Priceless !) Monday !!!

Bring On The Summer Breezes !

2011-05-25T17:22:00.006-05:00

The "Summer Breeze" sweater is finished !!!

It kind of feels like a grown-up cape . . .

. . . and I had to twirl a bit . . .

. . . because it's fun and it makes me smile

(until I get dizzy and the motion sickness issues kick in !)

Definitely easy and breezy . . . and done just in time !!!!

Woot !!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-05-23T20:54:00.003-05:00

"Make it a priority, because without play,

life becomes an endurance contest."

- Stuart Brown, "Play: How it Shapes the Brain,

Opens the Imagination and Invigorates the Soul" -

(Me & my favorite playmate - 1996)

ABSOLUTELY !!!!

Happy (playful !) Monday !!!!

The First Ten . . .

2011-05-15T17:49:00.007-05:00

It's felt really crazy the last month or so.

There've been engagements, baby announcements (I'm gonna be an aunt !), retirements (congrats to my dad !), wedding hoopla (showers & weddings upcoming !), and too many sympathy cards sent & calling hours/funerals attended . . . plus the usual wacko-ness that is work !

The good, the bad, and the ugly indeed !

In the midst, I've been very slowly making my way through this book. In the section I've read so far, the author talks about how " . . . deep joy is found only at the table of thanksgiving," and how the "height of our joy is dependent on the depth of our thanks." She also started a list of 1,000 gifts: "not of gifts I want, but of gifts I already have."

While sitting in my craft room with the kitties yesterday, taking a break from knitting (the "Summer Breeze" sweater is nearing completion !), I grabbed a pen and started my list on the back of an Anthropologie catalog . . .

1. A steaming cup of coffee

2. Soul food songs

3. Laundry fresh from the dryer

4. Peaceful face of a sleeping cat

5. Dresses (they make me feel girlie & pretty !)

6. The click of my knitting needles at work

7. Lush green of the leaves & grass when it rains

8. Creamy sweet taste of dark chocolate

9. Color

10. The smell of wool yarn

So, what's on your list ??!!??!!

Happy Monday !

Best $1.99 We Ever Spent

2011-04-24T16:49:00.005-05:00

Here's what we've been doing for fun lately . . .

. . . watching Marty & Leo play "Games For Cats" on Jack's iPad !!!!

Too much fun !!!

Little Things

2011-04-18T21:37:00.007-05:00

"A multitude of small delights

constitutes happiness."

- Charles Baudelaire -

True, indeed !! Here are a few of my recent small delights . . .

A little blurry, I know . . . but my new necklace says "KNIT" ! So cute !

You can check out a much better picture here . . . my first Etsy purchase !

With the help of a gift card and some birthday money,

I bought myself a new knitting bag:

. . . this one has a zipper closure, so Marty can't stick

his head in my knitting stuff anymore !

He's a little bummed . . . but I'm a happy camper !

And now I finally own a piece of the ever-popular Vera Bradley line !!

My "Summer Breeze" cardigan is well on its way:

. . . yup, she's named "Summer Breeze" . . .

courtesy of my mom, who said it reminded her of the song

(which now gets stuck in my head !) !!!!

This lovely sample has been sitting in various places

in my kitchen for a week or so . . .

. . . and looks to be the winner for our new backsplash

(a new floor going in, too !) !! Can't wait !!

This is the view from our guestroom/craftroom,

and my favorite thing to look at during Spring:

. . . I love seeing these buds just starting to turn red,

then swell and grow, and eventually burst into lovely green leaves !

So hopeful that Spring really is coming !!!

Here's to the little things & small delights !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-04-11T17:20:00.004-05:00

"If there comes a little thaw,

Still the air is chill and raw,

Here and there a patch of snow,

Dirtier than the ground below,

Dribbles down a marshy flood;

Ankle-deep you stick in mud

In the meadow while you sing,

'This is Spring' "

- Christopher Pearce Cranch -

Luckily, there's no mud or floods today (rain later tonite, though !),

and today was anything but chill and raw (75 degrees !) . . .

just so glad to see Spring !

These lovelies are just making their appearance . . .

. . . and these lovelies are sooooo happy to get out on

the porch, and watch the birds and chipmunks:

Happy Springy Monday !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-03-28T21:02:00.005-05:00

Attention coffee lovers . . . this one's for you !!!!

I recently discovered this blog, and immediately found what will

be the first of many recipes I try from this site:

Cappuccino Cookies !!!

Oh. My. Goodness.

These cookies are delicious !!! The flavor reminds me of Starbucks' Java Chip

ice cream (my favorite !), but in warm, cookie form !!! Big YUM !!

I brought some of these to work today . . . and let's just put it this way:

of all the goodies present in our office today

(cupcakes, lemon bars, brownies, etc.),

these bad boys disappeared the fastest !!!!!

Click here, and get busy baking a batch !!!!

Happy (cappuccino overload !) Monday !!!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-03-21T20:47:00.002-05:00

Yup, that's how I feel about Monday's, too !!!!!

For Real This Time

2011-03-16T21:28:00.003-05:00

Yes, this time I am really asking for sweater name suggestions !!!

I just picked up my new yarn . . .

. . just waiting to be knit into an "effortless cardigan" (so says the pattern !) . .

and in a lovely color named "Breeze" . . . !

OK . . . let's hear those ideas !!!!

Can't wait to see what this one will be called !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-03-14T16:45:00.003-05:00

" i thank You God for this most amazing day:

for the leaping greenly spirits of trees

and a blue true dream of sky;

and for everything which is natural

which is infinite which is yes."

- e.e. cummings -

Look Out . . . It's The Green Hornet !!

2011-02-28T19:12:00.004-05:00

YAY . . . off the needles and ready to wear !!

Wooohooo !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-02-28T18:46:00.002-05:00

Now this is my kind of multi-tasking:

. . . sitting in front of the oven, knitting away . . .

homemade honey wheat bread rising on the counter behind me . . .

and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies baking before my eyes !!!

Stomach full of yums + finished sweater = perfect way to start a new week !!

Happy Monday !

Leg Warmers

2011-02-17T07:16:00.003-05:00

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-02-14T07:49:00.002-05:00

(heart-shaped, chocolate-dipped rice crispy treats)

Happy Valentine's Day !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-02-05T14:27:00.007-05:00

It's a double-smile day today !!!

I snagged these adorable shoes at Old Navy over the weekend . . .

. . . so flowery & springy . . .

. . . just so gosh-darn cute !!!

Can't wait to wear them once spring finally gets here !

I found this (there's a link, I promise . . . this newer template doesn't highlight links like the last one !) while browsing the archives of a great knitting blog I just found . . . and almost choked on my lunch I was laughing so hard at the third picture !!!! HILARIOUS !!!

Marty & Leo should be relieved that I don't do this to them !!!

Happy Monday !!

Perfect End To A Long Week

2011-02-05T09:13:00.002-05:00

Sitting in front of a cozy fire . . .

. . . with a sleepy Marty on the couch next to me . . .

. . . . knitting on my lap, and a sacked-out Leo against my legs . . .

PERFECTION !!!

Yay, the weekend is finally here !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-01-31T17:39:00.005-05:00

So today it's an ode to my latest musical addiction:

Grace Potter & the Nocturnals !!!

Jack's been listening to them for a few years now, but I got hooked

after their latest CD came out last summer. Then after seeing them

live in October & in December . . . officially addicted !!!

They've been the only band in my CD player ever since !!!

Check them out . . .

(and turn the volume waaaayy up !!!)

When we were standing in line at the first show, we overheard a

fifty-something man call Grace Potter a "Rock Goddess" . . .

to which I rolled my eyes, and thought, "Dirty old guy !"

But after seeing their amazing show . . . . . !

Anyone with an awesome voice that can rock the stage

(& an outfit !) like that definitely gets my vote !!

To quote my other half: SIMPLY RIDICULOUS !!

Happy (Ooh, La, La !) Monday !!

WWJD & A New Project

2011-01-20T19:10:00.010-05:00

In this case, though, it's What Would Jack Do !!!

I've got my great new yarn . . .

. . . whose color is called "Leek" . . .

and a lovely pattern to knit it into . . . .

but no name was coming to me for this project !!!

I'd planned to ask for suggestions again . . .

this time with no comments from the husband/peanut gallery !

But then I wondered to myself,

"What would Jack come up with for this one ?"

And then it popped into my head . . . . "The Green Hornet" !!!!

(Oh yes, he is a lover of comic books !)

Marty digs it, too . . .

(bad picture, but it shows the color of the yarn best !)

Maybe the next one will be open for suggestions ?!?!!!!

Have to get "The Green Hornet" done first !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2011-01-10T18:54:00.003-05:00

"Winter is the time for comfort . . .

It is the time for home."

- Dame Edith Sitwell -

Happy Monday !!!

Holiday Recap

2011-01-03T18:23:00.005-05:00

Wow, a new year already . . . hello 2011 !!!

The holidays went quick, as always,

but were a great time of rest & relaxation (and food !) !!!

We enjoyed our nightly snuggle by the fire . . .

. . . and made some gifts, as well . . .

(red velvet cake bites & devil's food

cake bites & sugar cookie name tags !)

(the wine bottle wardrobe . . .

. . . approved by Leo, of course !)

. . . and our 2010 holiday family picture !!!

Hope your holidays were warm & bright, too !

Here's to a great new year !!!

Wishing You . . .

2010-12-25T23:22:00.002-05:00

Too Stinkin' Cute

2010-12-18T18:58:00.007-05:00

It was one of those, "Hey, I can make that!" moments !

A friend (and wine lover!) at work was talking about some

cute wine bottle accessories she saw in a store recently:

hats & scarves for your wine bottle !!

So, with all the yarn I have leftover in my stash,

I thought I might whip a few up for a quick Christmas gift !

Finished the first one last night . . .

Can't wait to play around with a few others !!

So freakin' cute . . . and I don't even drink wine !

Take that, Pottery Barn !!!!

Empty Needles . . . Haven Is Finished !

2010-12-08T17:56:00.000-05:00

Yaaaaaaay . . . "Haven" is done !!

I finished it about a week ago, and donned her for the

first time over the weekend . . . LOVING this sweater !!!

It's just what I was wanting . . .

(Quite a feat taking self-portraits . . .

especially in the snow & freezing temps . . .

. . . and using the timer for "flasher" shots !!!)

Looks like I'm giving a big hug here !!

And "Haven" feels just as comfy-cozy as a great big embrace !!

Love it !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-12-06T20:35:00.004-05:00

Fun new baking toys to play with here at . . .

I found these lovelies at Williams-Sonoma this past weekend, and they just had to come home with me !! A little tricky to get used to at first, but really fun . . . so many possibilities !!! I'll definitely be using these with this year's office nifty-gifty . . . very cool !!!

Have a . . .

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-11-29T19:12:00.007-05:00

"For the beauty of the earth,

for the glory of the skies,

for the love which from our birth

over and around us lies;

Lord of all, to thee we raise

this our hymn of grateful praise."

For the Beauty of the Earth

Folliott S. Pierpoint, 1864

Haven: Flying Without a Pattern !

2010-11-09T19:58:00.002-05:00

So, my lovely yarn the color of autumn leaves is on the needles . . . and on its way to becoming a cozy turtleneck ! And I've dubbed it "Haven" . . . because turtlenecks are my go-to sweaters to keep out the chill . . . and partly because I started it while watching the Syfy channel's "Haven" (based on a Stephen King story and set in Maine, of course !) and drooling over the gorgeous coastal Maine/fishing village scenery (always brings thick, cozy sweaters to mind !) !!!

This has been a fun and freeing knit for me . . . because I'm pattern-free on this one !! Just a few measurements and a basic formula for this type of sweater, and I'm set to make a custom-fit handknit !! It's a little daunting to just start something like this without a pattern to follow . . . but very liberating, too ! I can do whatever I want . . . no rules to follow . . . and no feeling like I've somehow failed if it doesn't turn out like the picture with the pattern ! Lovely !

Hopefully it'll look better on me than on my craft room chair !!!

Hope to be enjoying my "Haven" soon . . . !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-10-25T18:30:00.003-05:00

" . . . . 'I Sing Behind the Plow'. This affirmation of joy in work,

of art in the everyday, of hope in the face of challenge,

helps us in times of trouble and reminds us that we have

within us a lot of what it takes to make things better."

- Jan Davidson, Director, John C. Campbell Folk School

I had no idea what to post today. It was one of the those semi-blah days at work, and it left me feeling like a little bit of life had been sucked out of me !!

Then I read these words in the Folk School newsletter/funding letter that came in the mail . . . and I felt a little buoyed. Just the words I needed to hear today !

Happy Monday !

Another Smile

2010-10-22T06:32:00.003-05:00

"These autumn colors are just gorgeous . . .

the Lord certainly did a good job !"

- an elderly patient -

Indeed.

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-10-17T18:13:00.002-05:00

Happy, happy . . . joy, joy !!

The "Castle Hill" cardigan is DONE !!!

I just need to find some buttons, and then she's ready to roll !!

Happy (finally onto the next project !) Monday !!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-10-11T19:48:00.004-05:00

"Your best life isn't necessarily your favorite life

or the one you selfishly want.

It's simply the life you're best at."

- Josh Kilmer-Purcell, "The Bucolic Plague"

Happy Monday !

Vacation Part 2: Universal Studios

2010-10-02T15:13:00.011-05:00

Comics and cartoons . . .

. . . and some dinosaurs, too !

The #1 reason for our visit here . . .

. . . the Harry Potter section !!!

The attention to detail was amazing . . .

. . . a must-see for fans of Harry Potter !!!

What a fun way to spend a day !!!

Vacation Part 1: Magic Kingdom

2010-10-02T14:49:00.012-05:00

We stayed at the Wilderness Lodge during our Disney vacation . . .

. . . and thanks to a surprise free upgrade, stayed on the exclusive "loft" floor,

complete with continental breakfast and all-day-long snacks !!!

The view from our balcony:

What a cool place to stay !

Down this walkway was the boat that took us

to and from the Magic Kingdom . . .

Gotta love Disney decked out for Halloween !

Hello, candy !!!

The scent of sugar just grabbed you from the sidewalk . . . !

My kind of tea party . . .

That's right . . . only a 10-minute wait for the rides and attractions !!!

Awesome !

Definitely a magical first day !!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-10-02T14:37:00.004-05:00

I was hoping to make this my new work uniform . . . !!!!

Back to reality today after a great vacation !!

Happy Monday !

October Bliss

2010-10-02T14:11:00.007-05:00

I could stand at my window and stare at this scene for hours . . . .

these colors are breathtaking !

Instead, I make my annual fall trek to my favorite farm market . . .

GORGEOUS !!!

And, because I have to go by it anyway (ha ha !),

I stop at one of my favorite haunts for inspiration . . .

Oh, Fall . . . you are my favorite !!!

Moving Toward Polygamy . . .

2010-09-27T18:00:00.002-05:00

. . . with my knitting, that is !!!

During the first meeting of my knitting class at the Folk School, the instructor had us share a bit about ourselves and our knitting, including whether we were monogamous or polygamous knitters. My knitting has always been about monogamy: I always stick with one project until it's finished, and then I move on to the next ! But after really losing steam on the Castle Hill cardigan (working on the 2nd sleeve !), I feel myself heading toward knitting polygamy . . . !

After gazing at this scene from my kitchen window . . .

. . . I've been craving a soft, chunky turtleneck the color of fall leaves . . .

. . . and today I found the perfect yarn !!

Now, do I put my nose to the grindstone and finish that cardigan asap . . .

or do I tease myself, and start knitting a gauge swatch with my new yarn ?!?!

Ah, the knitter's dilemma !!!

"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience"

- Ralph Waldo Emerson -

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-09-19T13:35:00.005-05:00

"If solid happiness we prize,

Within our breast this jewel lies,

And they are fools who roam;

The world has nothing to bestow,

From our own selves our bliss must flow,

And that dear hut - our home."

- Nathaniel Cotton -

A friend at work said one of the saddest things recently: that she always needed to be out and about, and couldn't stand to be in her home for more than a few hours !

I couldn't agree LESS !

I love being at home. I hate to leave in the morning, and look forward all day to getting right back there ! It's where my most favorite people and things are . . . it's my haven, my sanctuary . . . it's where I can relax and dream and BE !!

"Seek home for rest, for home is best."

- Thomas Tusser -

Happy (homely) Monday !!

Wanted: Faster Fingers

2010-09-06T13:48:00.010-05:00

It's September.

Temperatures are dropping . . .

leaves are starting to change color & fall . . .

and my mind is on SWEATERS !!!

With all the fall magazines and catalogs arriving, I'm left lusting after these:

(all from Vogue Knitting and Interweave Knits magazines)

But, my knitting fingers just don't move fast enough !! I'm still working on the Castle Hill cardigan: the back & both front sides are done . . . still working on the sleeves and hood !!! It's getting there & I'm loving it . . . but I want to make MORE SWEATERS . . . . NOW !!!!

So much inspiration, so little time !!!

(Speaking of inspiration, check out this link and scroll thru . . . . LOVELY !!)

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-08-23T19:57:00.002-05:00

I think that pretty much sums it up !!

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-08-15T12:22:00.030-05:00

It's been 2 weeks already . . . and finally, trip pictures !!!

Up first . . . Rockport:

Gloucester . . .

Newburyport . . .

(I HAD to visit their local yarn store !)

Salem . . .

(House of Seven Gables)

(Boston Aquarium)

Boston . . .

Cambridge . . .

(Park the car in the Harvard yard !)

Such a fun trip !!! Maybe we'll make it back in another 10 years !!!

Happy Monday !

Memory Lane & A Sweater Name

2010-08-11T18:47:00.010-05:00

Maybe it was from browsing through New England Knits . . .

or visiting our old stomping grounds north of Boston

(got a lot of knitting done during the ride !) . . .

or just some general reminiscing . . .

. . . but I've dubbed this work-in-progress my "Castle Hill" sweater !!!

Jack & I only went to Castle Hill (click on the link . . . it's there, I swear !) once during our 2 years in the area . . . it was for the final concert of our favorite duo. We were disappointed that it was the last time we'd see them, but excited to be able to be there, and in such a beautiful setting . . . they played on the back terrace of the castle, while us fans were spread out on the enormous "lawn" that led down to and overlooked the ocean . . . GORGEOUS !!! I remember we got there pretty early, and were able to catch sound check and a little rehearsal. When one of the guys called out to us, "How's that sound?", we managed to stammer out a few

"Sounds great" 's !!!

What I remember most vividly was the way those New Englanders picnicked !! People brought in coolers upon coolers of food and drink . . . and small area rugs & coffee tables, and candelabras, and fancy wine glasses & place settings & silverware, and gourmet hors d'oeuvres and meals and desserts . . . I had never seen anything like it !!!! And there we sat, in the midst of all this, on our old, ratty blanket, with a bucket of KFC and cans of Coke !!!! The people around us must've wondered what rock we'd crawled out from under . . . what hicks we must have seemed !! Needless to say, I felt a bit out of place (as I did my whole time in Massachusetts !) . . . . but now it just makes me laugh !!! Maybe if I'd had my nifty "Castle Hill" cardigan on then . . . !!!

To good memories and good knitting !!

"Makes Me Smile" Everyday !

2010-08-09T20:28:00.004-05:00

Thirteen years ago today, it was a white dress I had on . . . .

. . . our cake was decorated with these lovely flowers,

and I tossed a bouquet just like this one . . . !

Thirteen years ago today, I married my best friend and soulmate !

And he makes me smile everyday !!!

Because I'm The Coolest Wife

2010-08-08T10:55:00.003-05:00

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-08-02T21:11:00.003-05:00

" . . . there's so much beauty around us

for just two eyes to see,

but everywhere I go, I'm looking."

- Rich Mullins, "Here In America" -

We came home today from a wonderful long-weekend trip back to Boston and the Cape Ann area . . . so hard to believe it's been 10 years since we lived there !

Such a great time . . . and lovely pictures to share, too !

Happy Monday !

Strawberry Saturday

2010-07-24T14:17:00.004-05:00

What to do with lovely fresh strawberries and leftover chocolate chips ??!??!!!

Dip those berries !!!

Fresh out of the freezer . . . . perfect on a humid summer day !

BIG YUM !!!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-07-19T17:14:00.005-05:00

Random smattering of smiles today !

I love that I can pick up these monsters

on my way home for 50 cents each at a

little farm stand a mile from our house . . .

I'm loving our new bedroom curtains . . .

finally finished them (with no help from my sewing machine,

which is currently on the fritz ! Sewn by hand, baby !) . . .

And, of course, the appearance of one of my very favorite flowers

makes me grin every time I catch sight of them !!

They're about the only thing that keeps coming

back every year in my garden !!

Happy Monday !

(Lots of yellow today !)

Wool In My Mailbox

2010-07-15T17:54:00.007-05:00

That's the kind of stuff that makes a knitter's day . . . .

the arrival of NEW YARN !!!

"Walnut Heather" is the color . . . .

. . . just waiting to be knit into a cardigan of cozy, cabled goodness !

(Is it weird that I take my yarn outside in the yard to be photographed ?!?!?

I didn't think so, either !!!)

So what if it's hazy, hot, and humid outside . . .

let the Fall knitting begin !!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-07-12T17:58:00.007-05:00

Last week was a hot one, and this week is starting off much the same !

Puts my taste buds in the mood for fresh summer veggies and fruit . . .

anything cool and refreshing !!

Here's a newer favorite: Bobby Flay's Grilled Corn &

Tomato-Sweet Onion Salad w/ Fresh Basil Dressing !

(I raced home tonight from work to get this one going !)

1/4 c. rice wine vinegar 1/4c. chopped fresh basil leaves

1t. sugar 1/2t. salt

1/4t. pepper 1/2c. olive oil

8 ears corn, grilled in the husk, kernels removed

1 sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

8oz. crumbled blue cheese

Combine dressing ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth. Combine veggies in a large bowl, and add dressing, tossing to coat. Season with salt & pepper. Top with blue cheese and garnish with basil sprigs. Can be served cold, or at room temperature.

(I'm not a blue cheese fan, so I substitute feta or parmesan . . . works great !)

Can't wait to dig in !!

Happy Monday !

So That's Why It Costs So Much !

2010-07-07T18:05:00.009-05:00

Pottery, that is.

That's what I learned from my recent class . . . .

it's not easy !!!

Especially for those of us who have trouble controlling our clay. I'm not really used to fighting with my material . . . yarn is pretty passive and obedient, you know !! So having to physically force my clay into compliance while it spins away on the potter's wheel . . . that was tough !!

So while I'm definitely not a "natural" where pottery is concerned, I didn't completely suck either ! I managed to produce these little numbers . . .

These are my best 3 pieces . . . and, thus, worthy to be glazed !! I have a few more unglazed pieces, too, but they're too wonky for pictures !!

So glad I gave this craft a try !! If nothing else, it reinforced my love of knitting . . . and gave me a new appreciation for the pieces of pottery I see at art festivals and galleries !!!

To quote the movie "You've Got Mail" . . . . .

"That's why it's worth so much" !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-07-05T14:03:00.006-05:00

The "Ocracoke Tank" is done !!! YAY !!!

(not planning to wear this one with shorts . . . but it's 90+ degrees here today,

and there was no way pants were being put on !!!)

Happy (3-day weekend !) Monday !!!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-06-28T17:57:00.002-05:00

It's nice to have a knitting assistant !!

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-06-21T21:15:00.003-05:00

"No need to hurry. No need to sparkle.

No need to be anybody but oneself."

- Virginia Woolf -

The Blues

2010-06-10T06:22:00.007-05:00

The good kind, though !!

I found some lovely yarn for my next knitting project (already on the needles !),

and fabric for new curtains in our bedroom (on sale 1/2 price, too !).

Looks like I was drawn to the blues:

The color of the yarn is "Ocean Spray", but that

reminds me of the cranberry juice drink . . . !

The tank top I'm knitting has a bit of a nautical feel . . .

and thinking about all our years vacationing at the Outer Banks . . .

I'm feeling like this project should be my "Ocracoke tank" !!

So there it is . . . "Ocracoke tank" on the needles,

and new bedroom curtains soon to follow !

Happy (blue) Thursday !

Done & Done

2010-06-04T17:14:00.006-05:00

Woohoo ! The "Siren Song" sweater is finished !!!

It took a bit longer than I would've liked . . .

but I loved everything about this sweater . . .

. . . from the lovely yarn I chose . . . to the variety of stitches & textures . . .

and not least of all, the eyelet section above the waist that holds a belt,

ribbon, or whatever I so choose to put in there . . . .

LOVE IT !!!

It'll just have to wait until Fall to be put in the wardrobe rotation !!

Until then . . . on to the next project !!

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-05-31T20:27:00.003-05:00

Everything looks better on a cake stand, don't you think ?!?!?!!!!

Happy (blueberry cake) Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-05-24T18:06:00.008-05:00

Oh, what beautiful weather we had this past weekend !

Summer . . . hopefully here to stay !

It started with flip-flops, freshly painted toes, and a

gauzy skirt (I wish everyday started like that !) . . .

. . . I finally bought some flora to fill the planters . . .

. . . and the pots . . .

. . . and the baskets on the barn doors . . . !

A little knitting was done on the porch

(where all summer activity takes place !) . . .

. . . the "Siren Song" sweater is almost done . . .

just the second sleeve to do !

There was trifle, too . . . full of strawberries and raspberries

and angel food cake and pudding and whipped cream . . . .

HEAVENLY !

And my favorite bundles o' fur, keeping watch over the yard !!

Hope you had a great weekend, too !

And here's hoping another one just like it is coming right up . . . !

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-05-17T18:31:00.003-05:00

This little piece of pottery has been holding my

kitchen utensils for almost 13 years now . . .

it was a wedding gift from one of Jack's friends.

So I'm a bit excited about pottery this week . . .

since I'm starting a pottery class tomorrow night !!!!

It's just a 5-week course . . . but I can't wait to give it a try !

The quest continues to turn those "I've always wanted to . . . "

statements into "Guess what I'm doing . . . !" !!!

Happy Monday !

An Aspiration Indeed

2010-05-14T06:27:00.003-05:00

"She made celebrations of things he had always dismissed as moments to

be rushed through on the way to something more important."

"Being around her, he found even everyday experiences were deeper,

nuanced, satisfaction and awareness slipped in between the

layers of life like love notes hidden in the pages of a textbook."

- Erica Bauermeister, "The School of Essential Ingredients"

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-05-10T17:02:00.002-05:00

"Come, let us have some tea

and continue to talk about happy things"

- Chaim Potok -

During yesterday's freezing & windy weather, I unearthed one of favorite (yet sorely underused!) belongings . . . . my teapot from Israel !!!

That 2-week trip was a priceless experience for me . . . and I can't believe it's been 15 years already !!! I knew it would be a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and I wanted to bring home something that would have meaning, and be useful, and truly last. So while my classmates were buying traditional clothing and jewelry and such, I came home with my teapot (and 2 demitasse cups, too !) !!

I don't drink tea as much as I once did . . . tends to stain the teeth, which isn't necessarily a good thing for a dental office manager ! But on a cold, blustery Sunday, it was the perfect thing to warm both body and soul !

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-04-26T17:48:00.003-05:00

I'm dreaming of summer today . . . !

Now that spring has sprung, and the grass is green and the trees have leaves again and temperatures are gradually getting warmer . . . I want more !!

Consider me officially ready for summer !

I'm ready for open windows . . . lounging on the porch . . . cook-outs . . . summer dresses and flip-flops . . . driving with the windows down . . . ice cream cones . . . trips to the farm market . . . . fresh flowers and veggies and fruit . . . !! Soon enough (I hope) !

Happy Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-04-12T19:55:00.010-05:00

So glad Spring has finally sprung !!

Everywhere I look - inside and out - there's a little bit of green . . .

Happy (going green !) Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-04-05T17:08:00.006-05:00

Maybe it's my appreciation for the handmade . . . or because this little item comes with me all over the house . . . but today it's an ode to my knitting bag !

Several years ago, a patient in our practice brought in a similar bag that she had made . . . and when the whole staff went crazy admiring it, she came back the next day with enough for each of us to pick one out ! She didn't charge us for them . . . just gave them because she wanted to . . . . how awesome is that !! I wasn't too jazzed with this one at first - it seemed like everyone else got to the ones I really wanted before I did - but when I ended up with this one, someone remarked that it looked like "me". And the more I looked at it, the more I agreed !

After I started knitting, my little bag was put to good use, holding whatever project I happen to be working on. Unfortunately, my bag didn't make the trip with me to the Folk School . . . it wasn't big enough to hold everything I needed for my class ! It felt a little awkward carrying around "some other knitting bag" while I was there . . . and I was glad to get home and return to my usual carryall !

Problem is, I'm not the only one that likes this bag . . .

. . . Marty can often be seen with his head stuffed inside it ! I even have to put the bag in a closet at night so little Marty superfuzz can't get to it !!

Handmade . . . functional . . . and much appreciated (even by the felines !) !!

Happy (handmade) Monday !!!

A Good Friday Indeed

2010-04-02T14:17:00.007-05:00

Our office is closed every year on Good Friday . . . it's one of the nicest things my bosses do, giving us a nice, long weekend ! This one is proving to be especially nice, because of numbers like these:

That's right . . . April 2nd & 80+ degrees outside !

It was time to get out the flip-flops . . .

. . . let the kitties out on the porch . . .

. . . and enjoy this wonderful treat of a day !! PERFECTION !!

Hope it's not a tease, though . . . these temps better be here to stay !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-03-29T21:09:00.004-05:00

Got my hands on this wonderful new book

by a fellow upstate New Yorker . . .

As the description says, it's a "wooly Julie and Julia" !

Educational, inspiring, and hilarious thus far . . . loving it !

Happy (knitting dangerously !) Monday !

"Makes Me Smile" Monday

2010-03-22T17:09:00.003-05:00

"I want heather and moss,

sunlight and frost . . . "

- "Siren Song" by Jason Harrod -

A new week, and a new sweater on the needles !

The name for this one came to me right away,

while listening to one of my favorite songs . . .

. . . I heard the line noted above . . . and saw this beautiful heathered

blue/green yarn with the tiniest flecks of gold

. . . and the Siren Song Sweater came to be !!

Loving this sweater so far . . . and have always loved this song !! Give it a listen here (under the Music heading, on the "Living in Skin" album . . . . it's definitely worth the extra mouse clicks to get there !)

Happy Monday !

Super Fuzz

2010-03-20T17:30:00.006-05:00

That's our Marty: one big ball of fuzz !!

When we brought him home 2 1/2 years ago,

he was this little 7-pound furball . . .

. . . and now (after his recent vet visit), he's this

13 1/2 pound woolly mammoth of a cat:

Couldn't resist taking some pictures of him today - in all his poofy glory -

and comparing them to his "kitten days" . . . . they grow up so fast !!

Love these boys !