tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90323072255401218132024-03-13T08:47:59.862-07:00The Ellen Report ...What I think I know. What I want to know. What I'm trying to do and a lot of rambling about yarn, family, friends and stuff.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.comBlogger707125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-35181489005458890762019-03-13T09:56:00.000-07:002019-03-13T09:56:00.569-07:00Glamour ShotThe best compliment for a knit gift is when the recipient wears them. I am chuffed.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLea_MAAMz4/XIk143xTi6I/AAAAAAAADkc/WjfqdMX0fR0vnnRY7xfCtWeExmzMcdyAACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_4251.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLea_MAAMz4/XIk143xTi6I/AAAAAAAADkc/WjfqdMX0fR0vnnRY7xfCtWeExmzMcdyAACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_4251.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Enough said.<br />
<br />
Her kids are gorgeous with or without the knits. It's a picture of the picture on my fridge so there is a bit of morning sunshine reflected in it, sorry it's so Inception.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-27484597982716669182019-03-08T17:29:00.003-08:002019-03-08T17:29:43.648-08:00PiecesI know all you quilters out there got all excited. Ooo, maybe she made the jump!<br />
<br />
Alas, I haven't. My craft life is in chaos as it is so friends, I really think it's going to take retirement to get me to quilting. I have ONE quilting goal right now, and that is to put together a very basic Christmas Quilt because:<br />
<br />
1) I love Christmas<br />
2) I love a theme<br />
<br />
So in the meantime I will continue to collect Christmas fabric remnants and eventually I'll work on cutting pieces. Then, and this is a big maybe I'll learn to use a sewing machine. LOL<br />
<br />
My mother spent so much time telling me to be careful or I'd sew my finger when I was little (4?) I never wanted to be near one of those devil machines. I did love my Grandmother's sewing machine in Thailand. It was old fashioned with a pedal. It was absolutely beautiful and let me feel in control, but that was many decades ago...<br />
<br />
Well I've been back on the garment sweater train and I'm struggling. I cannot work on this sweater very much because I need at least an hour at a time to address construction or more accurately said, errors. Ha!<br />
<br />
My latest roadblock shows me I read the pattern wrong, probably ended a section on the wrong side and am now turned around w/not enough stitches to start the next section of Fisherman's rib.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxaasHFU0eE/XIMSFAf34TI/AAAAAAAADj0/OKTPSXdtLJUWBBq4wN6nwrZnPDpIGP01QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxaasHFU0eE/XIMSFAf34TI/AAAAAAAADj0/OKTPSXdtLJUWBBq4wN6nwrZnPDpIGP01QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_4071.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So I am thinking I'm going to just hack it. I'm a little concerned that my gauge is off and it's going to be tiny, but so be it. If it is, I will give it to a girl child and move on.<br />
<br />
I crave progress right now. Unfortunately it will probably have to wait until Sunday because I have a ton of things to do.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsHModVDTUg/XIMSAa-L2FI/AAAAAAAADj4/yZwTokT8SKELT-qhAQJG1-wf47Jihk4BACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_4078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsHModVDTUg/XIMSAa-L2FI/AAAAAAAADj4/yZwTokT8SKELT-qhAQJG1-wf47Jihk4BACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_4078.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Before I go off and begin the weekend of stuff I will leave you with this most<a href="https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/chewy-fudgy-homemade-brownies/" target="_blank"> excellent brownie recipe.</a> I left out the chocolate chips and frosting because, why gild the lily and it's sweet enough on it's own. If it's not, slap on some sweet cream ice cream or whipped cream. The boys were very pleased with this one. I plan on making a batch from my friend who is returning to work after a bit of medical leave.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mu54iJyL628/XIMW3aEb0XI/AAAAAAAADkE/fBgrL2Qeq0kQscjjTRydCMGPL4k8V46OQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mu54iJyL628/XIMW3aEb0XI/AAAAAAAADkE/fBgrL2Qeq0kQscjjTRydCMGPL4k8V46OQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_4075.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
What's been on your weekend agendas?elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-54001622858366740552019-02-26T17:54:00.002-08:002019-02-26T17:54:55.843-08:00The CookieRight before my oven D I E D and I do mean died a week and a half ago, my family made a realization. The cookie dough in the freezer was no longer ear marked for my extracurricular activities. No soccer or softball teams. No Bake sales...<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And the request for a couple warm cookies began.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And then the oven died and the requests stopped. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(I'm still recovering from my no oven experience. You try planning for an Oscar Party when your oven dies. Yeah, you get creative but you get annoyed too, ha!)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is the <a href="https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1015819-chocolate-chip-cookies" target="_blank">NY Times Cookie</a> and is my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe. The first time I tried it it came out busy, sweet. That is because I used an adaptation. The recipe I've linked is the way to go.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NHaOLxLGDCo/XHXteIncxxI/AAAAAAAADjM/h4rA6FYYVi8-aPqZMBOIKDRkf9I1GQhRACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NHaOLxLGDCo/XHXteIncxxI/AAAAAAAADjM/h4rA6FYYVi8-aPqZMBOIKDRkf9I1GQhRACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_4054.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And you ask, but WHY, Ellen? What makes it so fabulous? Besides the fact it tastes good? The texture and quality chocolate. How, Ellen, how?! Fine you, with your wants of whiny details:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. The combination of flours. Bread and Cake - it's really what gives it the best texture.</div>
<div>
2. It's a lot of butter, no lie.</div>
<div>
3. Quality chocolate that is not so sweet as well as the size. This batch my discs from Tcho chocolate were too big so I just cut them a bit with a chef's knife not a lot of effort, but manageable and tasty.</div>
<div>
4. The fridge / freezer cure again adds to the texture.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Go on try it and tell me if you like it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
True confession: I've been out of fleur de sel for months and have been cheating using Kosher and I'm totally okay with it.</div>
elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-59584471436732362642019-02-11T16:15:00.001-08:002019-02-11T16:21:14.158-08:00Oh Sh*t she still Knits.Sorry for the crass title, but I live for a bad rhyme and a knit joke.<br />
<br />
Anyways, lookee here some finished knits!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ1SDiGFLdo/XGIP3yxTQeI/AAAAAAAADis/xZKlMruijdo2akPHV7xRdsX6Gsaw9S5BgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3916.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ1SDiGFLdo/XGIP3yxTQeI/AAAAAAAADis/xZKlMruijdo2akPHV7xRdsX6Gsaw9S5BgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3916.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
A few years ago I knit a Gramps sweater for a coworker of my husband's who has always been so supportive of him. And well she was having baby 2 and knowing that her kid actually wore it he asked if I'd consider knitting the family something else. He was originally thinking a replacement sweater for the eldest since he had grown out of the original and the new little would get it, but I thought, why not something new for both.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ruj_g4KMoCE/XGIP9d-pTYI/AAAAAAAADi0/GAeewl0bx5oMSVE181L45qjE5xovTzoUACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3921.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ruj_g4KMoCE/XGIP9d-pTYI/AAAAAAAADi0/GAeewl0bx5oMSVE181L45qjE5xovTzoUACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3921.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Seemed like a great idea at the time. I chose patterns I had knit before (practical) and gave myself a reasonable size and timeline for both.<br />
<br />
Shamefacedly 5 months later I am finally finishing them. My knitting mojo was hit or miss 2018 and honestly, I've just been so tired mentally and physically at the end of the day. I basically wait for everyone to go to sleep (not that anyone asks much of me) and then shut down. And in all fairness, I have been enjoying other hobbies as well.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AhAD_ig4RUE/XGIQBQq7lmI/AAAAAAAADi8/ihpd8Ew7ciAqHhBqlnQOOM5qjNMJt7QEgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3917.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AhAD_ig4RUE/XGIQBQq7lmI/AAAAAAAADi8/ihpd8Ew7ciAqHhBqlnQOOM5qjNMJt7QEgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3917.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Okay I just have to say the Navy is heathered and it still caused me all kinds of eyesight problems. I dropped stitches that I didn't find until AFTER I bound off the body. I dropped stitches yet again during short row collar shaping and could not figure out how to fix it so I had to tink back hundreds and hundreds of stitches over a week. Then literally 3 rows from binding off brand new knitters pride needles I purchased for this project "snapped" (the line from the needle) and I dropped a buttload of stitches and had to keep from screaming in the middle of the night. It was a journey. One I do not plan on taking for a while. So people do me a favor and slow your roll with the babies.<br />
<br />
I've already cast on my next project another sweater for a grown person. A new to me pattern, so I have to really think but who cares, the yarn is a blue gray so I can SEE my stitches (insert cackling laughter here).<br />
<br />
I also still have a pair of man socks I need to finish. I'm trying a higher cast on this time. How many rows do you guys usually make for your man sock legs? I think I did 70 but it seems short? Oh well, it is what it is now.<br />
<br />
All the best,<br />
<br />
Ellen<br />
<br />
<br />elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-68051783609916824762019-02-01T17:01:00.001-08:002019-02-01T17:01:19.545-08:00Winter Reading ReviewOne of my dance instructors, Kyle Limon regularly brings a book to class to share. He is either reading it or has finished it. He gives us a quick explanation of what it's about or why he's reading it. Towards the end of the year he talked about how good reading is for you and for dancers how it can help you improve your retention (for choreography).<br />
<br />
I was just beginning to enjoy books a little more frequently either in audio or traditional format, but it was a little inspiration to get back to it.<br />
<br />
Here is what I've read so far this winter.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_zp2vD43lqc/XFS7ezo-_BI/AAAAAAAADh4/V4ee9_b1EcchpPetCRvSwiZvpiOcCBMGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_zp2vD43lqc/XFS7ezo-_BI/AAAAAAAADh4/V4ee9_b1EcchpPetCRvSwiZvpiOcCBMGACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3753.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Beneath a Scarlet Sky</b>: Honestly I love the story and the adventure. I was really intrigued how this story came to be. Here's a <a href="https://publishingperspectives.com/2017/09/beneath-a-scarlet-sky-mark-sullivan-rights-rush/" target="_blank">reference</a>. There is a bunch of other stuff out there about this title too. I don't mean to be a snob and yuck someone else's yum, but as much as I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the writing was a bit flat for me. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't exactly prose. Does this make sense?<br />
<br />
<b>Britt-Marie Was Here:</b> I was so charmed by a Man Called Ove (thank you reading knitters!) that I wanted to read something else by the author. I loved his ability to turn out a quirky character that could be both annoying and self sabotaging but good enough in their own way that you were cheering for them. This one incorporated a mature woman going through a pivotal transition in her life and soccer. Well ... seemed like the one for me. It was entertaining and enjoyable. However it felt familiar even with the new characters and setting and I love a Man Called Ove and I can't help but compare. If you were to choose go with a Man Called Ove, but this is good too, just um, not as good.<br />
<br />
<b>The Alienist: </b>A historical fiction of the development of early forensics and it featured a strong woman in a time where it's hard to imagine such independence. I had been meaning to read this for a while but I actually watched the TNT series before I read the book. I liked the series enough to seek the source material and see if it matched up. I have to say I knew the series took liberties and I was a little sad that they felt the need to modify some of the characters but I understand that they like to add side plots and complexity and consolidate other things for the sake of visual story telling. <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1560977/" target="_blank">Cary Fukunaga</a> wrote 2 of the episodes and was an Executive Producer on the series and I like his work so I may be a bit biased.<br />
<br />
This is a dark story and not for the squeamish. The most vulnerable are hurt in this story and you really need to be able to get past that in order to appreciate that it is a look into how life experiences shape human behavior and character and how they can manifest in horrible violence.<br />
<br />
This was my favorite of that photographed stack.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile I finished this last weekend:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x47_PGOzxd0/XFTppbthFWI/AAAAAAAADiY/cputYcDkS8ggBuk_WlThoiBthWPXDYJtwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3794.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x47_PGOzxd0/XFTppbthFWI/AAAAAAAADiY/cputYcDkS8ggBuk_WlThoiBthWPXDYJtwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3794.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
I know what you're thinking ... Ellen, really, MORE serial killer stories? Look it's actually somewhat humorous and it's really good story telling. It's more about the relationship between sisters and how family experiences drive the dynamics of a family no matter what age you and your siblings are. You know how people will talk about their youngest sibling or their youngest child and call them the baby and how the baby has always needed help or has always been the most affectionate etc? Generally it's because the family has always treated them as if they are the baby and often helped or offered to help without the baby even asking. Not to say these people aren't their own capable independent people, but in the FAMILY they are the baby because they've always been babied not because they are the youngest. (True confession, I'm the eldest.)<br />
<br />
Hmm, I'm reading that back and I'm still not making a decent point. But I'm leaving it because there's a point in there somewhere that you might be able to suss out and win a prize for.<br />
<br />
Anyways I really enjoyed it. I think I read about it in the Times. There is a reason it gets a lot of buzz. Really enjoyed it and am recommending it constantly.<br />
<br />
Have a good weekend folks. Use it to enjoy yourself the best way you know how. Be good -- even to your big and little siblings that may or may not deserve it. Remember when all else fails blame bad parenting. These books are giving me a complex.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-54016245952275092082019-01-14T14:58:00.002-08:002019-01-14T14:58:28.614-08:00What is this stitch?!?!Dear Knitters,<br />
<br />
Someone posted this and then tagged me thinking I could help. At first glance it's something like a seed stitch, then I was thinking trinity or star. I think I started seeing things.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dw5btRLW0AAIkGL.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
Here is the wrong side.<br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dw5buEeWkAEEA-j.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
Anyone know?!? If they learn first, I'll report back!<br />
<br />
Happy Knitting!elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-29528316456697161252018-12-14T17:10:00.002-08:002018-12-14T17:10:36.560-08:00I lied to you. I didn't knit this weekend or the one before that. I didn't manage a single row or round.<br />
<br />
None of us are shocked. I know. It's okay, it was still a good weekend.<br />
<br />
I slept, I had coffee, I exercised. I got some chores done. I kept my nag levels down. I did bake a bit.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_OFC7f40FE/XBRTfn5BvaI/AAAAAAAADhU/ReNoN72dOG0RELSAB1dwvYIUMoQGywkhACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3153.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_OFC7f40FE/XBRTfn5BvaI/AAAAAAAADhU/ReNoN72dOG0RELSAB1dwvYIUMoQGywkhACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3153.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
This was my second time doing the <a href="https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/brown-butter-sugar-cookies/" target="_blank">brown butter cookies</a>. I froze the dough for days I don't have time to do everything from scratch. I thought they baked up even nicer this time around. My son thinks I overbaked them. Shrug.<br />
<br />
Sunday I cooked some food and baked cookies for my friend who recently had knee surgery. Our other friends had already been taking the family over some food to keep our friend off her knee a bit. Even though she's already healing pretty well, I wanted to help her out and hopefully keep her on the healing track.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://apis.mail.yahoo.com/ws/v3/mailboxes/@.id==VjN-8f1jRe4-qfvyunOViuRUKxZLAITGORNHv_ivyZZi1U2zZnzqu60P9Y1S6qktthje6F676llwJijNHGM9Rx73ng/messages/@.id==AAiLA-FuPoVeXAcpBAJRwLmVPRQ/content/parts/@.id==10/thumbnail?appId=YMailNorrin" /><br />
<br />
My friend is Canadian so I used the opportunity to workshop a <a href="https://livforcake.com/maple-sugar-cookies/" target="_blank">Maple cookie</a>. My husband loved fiddling with the special message cookie stamp. I wasn't going to use it because I didn't have a lot of time, but despite a wonky C, we thought it was cute.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKGmPs4xrWw/XBRUHuylNcI/AAAAAAAADhg/ZV5FLw1G76QUOFjH-qP2N0HDrkeb2iBoACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3154.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NKGmPs4xrWw/XBRUHuylNcI/AAAAAAAADhg/ZV5FLw1G76QUOFjH-qP2N0HDrkeb2iBoACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3154.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Most importantly they were tasty!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l4eMKz4Yi-c/XBRUPCeYJeI/AAAAAAAADho/IEB6TzhvRGEJ0eSavfJZSjo6Fky7TmRIACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_3155.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l4eMKz4Yi-c/XBRUPCeYJeI/AAAAAAAADho/IEB6TzhvRGEJ0eSavfJZSjo6Fky7TmRIACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_3155.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
I experimented a bit with some gingerbread this past week and some sprinkle cookies and neopolitan cookies. Trying to figure out my Christmas game plan.<br />
<br />
But really, this weekend I'm going to knit ...elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-77272538417986190392018-11-29T18:00:00.002-08:002018-11-29T18:00:27.611-08:00Once Upon a Knitting Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cKZe6OqQBNA/XACXo-ISc7I/AAAAAAAADhE/dNmVhZ6PKj8no09EMDIS5bNHmhSSsae6wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cKZe6OqQBNA/XACXo-ISc7I/AAAAAAAADhE/dNmVhZ6PKj8no09EMDIS5bNHmhSSsae6wCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_2858.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A long long time ago I had the intention of knitting a larger hat for my cousin's baby who well ... was not a toddler anymore and had outgrown the original I knit him.<br />
<br />
This kid is so loving and sweet. He is a HUGE fan of his Dad. I figured, why not matching father/son hats? So after a pause I knit a matching hat.<br />
<br />
This little cousin has an older brother who works a lot in the stables and Kathy B said she gave fingerless mitts to her fellow stable volunteers where she lives so ... after a pause I knit a pair of handwarmers.<br />
<br />
Well this older brother has an older sister who also works in the same stables ... so after another pause, I knit another set of handwarmers. So essentially 6 months after my original send date ... most of the family got some handknits.<br />
<br />
My dear cousin in Colorado told me everything is fit. (I figured the elder siblings would work out which one got which pair -- same size and whatnot.) I apologized profusely for taking SOOOO long, but they were all very thankful and understanding.<br />
<br />
<i>The End.</i><br />
<br />
I'm still finishing 2 baby sweaters. This weekend I swear it. I just am not knitting very much because that is just how it goes sometimes.<br />
<br />
I do enjoy gifting knits, but I think I am going to do some random fancy free knitting in 2019.<br />
<br />
Do you enjoy gift knitting?elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-35729211478693403032018-11-16T17:19:00.001-08:002018-11-16T17:19:37.992-08:00The air is really bad in San FranciscoOur State is on fire. Unfortunately despite our amazing Emergency Responders people's lives have been lost and forever changed. Landscapes are scarred, and our horizons are unrecognizable.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hundreds of miles from the nearest of the worst fires our air has officially put us at the t<a href="https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/417188-san-francisco-currently-has-worst-air-quality-in-the-world-due-to" target="_blank">op of the worst of the world list.</a> (This is under some debate, but suffice to say it's pretty crap right now.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I supply you with photographic evidence.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last week vs this week: the view from my street (admitting different zoom levels)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qeMiRW8W1oQ/W-9sGfC6BqI/AAAAAAAADgk/82Lr2kFyc4saZfM-RYcwGlmJtyrqBNXMwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2856.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qeMiRW8W1oQ/W-9sGfC6BqI/AAAAAAAADgk/82Lr2kFyc4saZfM-RYcwGlmJtyrqBNXMwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2856.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcVvJRN11mQ/W-9sLzoc_eI/AAAAAAAADgs/luU9TZGYgXsy8PzftlOyF30JT5rmOwkxgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2957.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcVvJRN11mQ/W-9sLzoc_eI/AAAAAAAADgs/luU9TZGYgXsy8PzftlOyF30JT5rmOwkxgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2957.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But seriously, where did the Salesforce tower go?!?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are reduced to this when we have to travel outside. This is lunch with the ladies (I'm the second from the right.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afHMF7Ks-MQ/W-9sdiRE9EI/AAAAAAAADg8/Rk-LuNHKwWgDKdO_1BoK82qxwCtfQYpFwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/facemaskgang.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afHMF7Ks-MQ/W-9sdiRE9EI/AAAAAAAADg8/Rk-LuNHKwWgDKdO_1BoK82qxwCtfQYpFwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/facemaskgang.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ours schools were closed today. Sports for the kids have been cancelled after already being postponed. Playoff games were settled with a coin toss. (I had to verify this a few times).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With the fires up in Napa /Santa Rosa we experienced something similar. This is MUCH MUCH worse. Fire season feels like it has become a thing. Our lungs hurt, our eyes burn. Everyone feels a mess. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways. That's what is happening. </div>
elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-88306491545504492882018-10-24T15:29:00.001-07:002018-10-24T15:35:29.902-07:00Scenes and Memories from October in San FranciscoSometimes I'm not sure what to post. I don't produce a lot of knitting. My life is pretty routine. (This is not bad, but maybe not super exciting for the rest of you.)<br />
<br />
So I thought I'd share a few photos from some moments between the grind this last month.<br />
<br />
October is one of my most favorite months in the Bay Area. The weather wavers between a late summer and a crispy morning and evening. The light is lovely and the temperature is comfortable.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mf9m3dLPiPE/W9Drp4AuNlI/AAAAAAAADew/UVGUdL7TzUASZ3iU0qdFt0VkAZGKM5hlACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2618.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mf9m3dLPiPE/W9Drp4AuNlI/AAAAAAAADew/UVGUdL7TzUASZ3iU0qdFt0VkAZGKM5hlACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2618.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
This photo was from a Sunday around 1pm when I went to meet my husband after a morning of exericse. I needed to pick up some flowers and we went to the Farmer's Market near our apartment at the Civic Center. It's not as nice a neighborhood compared to the other farmer's markets in the city, but it's always been our go to, though usually he goes on Wednesday mornings for work. I think he was somewhat amused to be there on a Sunday. (that's him in the bottom right corner, making the "where'd you go?" face.) It was funny because some of the farmers and vendors that have been in the stalls for over 10 years still ask him how our son is. When we lived in the Tenderloin when our son was born, he stayed home with the boy when I went back to work, and the Farmer's Market was part of their regular Father/Son weekly schedule. I probably had one of the few preschoolers addicted to pomegranates. Ha!<br />
<br />
Just across the road before the City Hall Playground and Courtyard the trees were yarn bombed. This seems to be a regular occurrence, maybe it's a type of agreed upon exhibit? Last time I was walking around there, it was giraffes. But that weekend it was Otters in trees!?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvf6VWJcnQc/W9Dt80ZsbmI/AAAAAAAADe8/aL8NJpagzrEJYQahu1e2b7qcqVXmATXiQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2619.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvf6VWJcnQc/W9Dt80ZsbmI/AAAAAAAADe8/aL8NJpagzrEJYQahu1e2b7qcqVXmATXiQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2619.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hqnWeWN-as8/W9DuCJZUQuI/AAAAAAAADfE/wsqnjQ9xpkIVjb506YFJBJShv8sMz939wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2620.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hqnWeWN-as8/W9DuCJZUQuI/AAAAAAAADfE/wsqnjQ9xpkIVjb506YFJBJShv8sMz939wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2620.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
I think the thing on his chest is a clam, but I can't get the photo to display in the correct orientation so you'll have to take my word for it.<br />
<br />
At the beginning of the month I took a Friday off from work and watched the Parade of ships come in through the Gate for Fleet Week. There were only a few ships this year, and I didn't really get a photo because it was too far away and there were a bunch of people. But it was a lovely day. I sat outside with 2 very good friends and we had lunch with our toes in the sand and watched the tourists and the air show while our boys were all at school.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Rw81bbAgk4/W9DxsVVk8eI/AAAAAAAADgE/v_4Kk0BC7KoEK9GWc0bkksG97P_7KKpgACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2592.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Rw81bbAgk4/W9DxsVVk8eI/AAAAAAAADgE/v_4Kk0BC7KoEK9GWc0bkksG97P_7KKpgACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2592.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYTOJAX-Kro/W9DxyRzTgZI/AAAAAAAADgM/yVAXYo1rKnkSsLNdp9Z6gzmPCFhiqqnoACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2594.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gYTOJAX-Kro/W9DxyRzTgZI/AAAAAAAADgM/yVAXYo1rKnkSsLNdp9Z6gzmPCFhiqqnoACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2594.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Blue Angels!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aj1kgera0So/W9Dx2SfDB3I/AAAAAAAADgU/Jl88OR40gSIIWxmfM_Ph9O1hOL0dcNt8wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2606.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aj1kgera0So/W9Dx2SfDB3I/AAAAAAAADgU/Jl88OR40gSIIWxmfM_Ph9O1hOL0dcNt8wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2606.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
What have been this month's highlights for you?elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-75751865239718180402018-10-12T10:53:00.002-07:002018-10-12T10:53:45.848-07:00What's up Chickenbutts? Friday's This and That.It's a fairly common greeting in my family. I try to mess around and make it all formal and royal like, "Hello, bottoms of fowl." It hasn't caught on yet. I have hope. Not a lot, but like I say some hope is better than none.<br />
<br />
I am still knitting that damn baby sweater. (I love the sweater, but for some reason the stripey sleeves are kind of sucking the knitting life out of me.) The truth is that I often can't focus on knitting until about 11pm and I don't always have all my wits about me at that time. The last 2 nights have been some funky sleep cycles. My face is puffy. I hate that.<br />
<br />
But some good things my friends! Because we can't whirly bird down the drain of despair any faster. It's not wrong to be a little skeptical, but it's easy to get lost in what we aren't doing or what we'd like better for ourselves and those we care about.<br />
<br />
So I offer you 1. CAKE!!!!!! (this picture is of me and my crazy cake face. I have no shame that I love it. Vain? maybe, but hey I am not puffy!!)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlHphl3o_tI/W8De9W81D5I/AAAAAAAADd4/UiWsLVy8oZsq5tbCw0yLomokPE_xCXD3wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2580.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlHphl3o_tI/W8De9W81D5I/AAAAAAAADd4/UiWsLVy8oZsq5tbCw0yLomokPE_xCXD3wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2580.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoMJFM-RQjY/W8DfCyX5IBI/AAAAAAAADeA/mZUno8cGQeUKX5KNk_DsVC7MWDcomY15wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2584.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoMJFM-RQjY/W8DfCyX5IBI/AAAAAAAADeA/mZUno8cGQeUKX5KNk_DsVC7MWDcomY15wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2584.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ3LpzmiCZ8/W8DfFfLjmKI/AAAAAAAADeI/QO07QpsKQWYw99hydSLgd52vqRBhIgPBwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2588.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ3LpzmiCZ8/W8DfFfLjmKI/AAAAAAAADeI/QO07QpsKQWYw99hydSLgd52vqRBhIgPBwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2588.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
YAAAYYY CAKE!!! I love this cake dearly. It took a couple runs for it to become as fluffy and delicious and moist as it did. It's a coffee cake that tastes a little like actual coffee/espresso. Both inside and in the glaze. Get the recipe <a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2014/03/model-bakery-espresso-bundt-cake-recipe.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Do not substitute the cake flour.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-flrGv6DUqCI/W8DfJlN_NwI/AAAAAAAADeQ/OJXngjjPDaEYhf79BDBgKXhwexn1Jh-tQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2572.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-flrGv6DUqCI/W8DfJlN_NwI/AAAAAAAADeQ/OJXngjjPDaEYhf79BDBgKXhwexn1Jh-tQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2572.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Alright I'll ease up on the exclamation points for you with this cake. This is a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/blackberry-cheesecake-squares-2308484" target="_blank">cheesecake bar</a> with mixed berry topping -- end of season out this way. This went pretty fast at the office and I am making another one for our section's Thanksgiving potluck. I prefer the crust with Nilla wafers and pecans vs. graham crackers.<br />
<br />
<img alt="The Goldfinch: A Novel (Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81GcOE3jVsL._AC_UL115_.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I finished <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Goldfinch-Novel-Pulitzer-Prize-Fiction/dp/0316055441/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" target="_blank">The Goldfinch </a>and it was crazy good to me. It was definitely crazy. I'm really surprised that I liked it all the way through. It would be a book I would normally take issue with the editor and say, why did you let them ramble on like this? But it worked for me. The story of a child of tragedy that continues to endure a lot of self inflicted pain and conflict grows up with questionable characters also making questionable decisions. There is drug and alcohol abuse. There is art, philosophy and life in parallels to question.<br />
<br />
I had friends that seemed to have read it through half covered eyes, wincing at all the crossroads. A few people I discussed it with couldn't back any of the characters and therefore didn't like it.<br />
<br />
For me, I liken it to finding myself enjoying some old classic rock? No maybe jam rock? Where it starts off and the first 2 minutes I'm like, this is nice. I think I like this, and then 8 minutes later I'm pulling my hair out going, "When is this hippie crap going to end?!?"<br />
<br />
Essentially some of the drug induced experiences were very lengthy. There's a bit of losing time in certain settings. However for me, I enjoyed the descriptions. I could see and feel and I really had a sense of the pain and the desire to escape. I understood very well that feeling of knowing what you should do, and then not doing it anyways and then beating yourself up about. Rinse and repeat. Empathy, people. I had it.<br />
<br />
Well that is all for now. The weather here is getting that fall crispy feeling. Or as I like to say, "smells like knitting weather." To which my entire family replies, "It's always knitting weather."<br />
<br />
Love knows.<br />
<br />
Wishing you all a good weekend.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-79926799080816095722018-09-28T10:11:00.002-07:002018-09-28T10:16:35.935-07:00The Audiobook ReviewThere is not enough time to read. I've come to this place and I'm okay with it. So I listen to audio books now. A lot. A little obsessively. Lately I'm working on a project that allows for this, not all tasks are conducive to listening to narrative. I'm not always listening. I'm often rewinding. But basically if I can, I listen.<br />
<br />
I also listen a lot at home on the weekends when I'm trying to do my chores.<br />
<br />
I like to listen while baking too. Baking is hobby time. If I'm home and I'm not baking I'd like to be knitting, preferably in front of the television set, because that is how dreams are made, duh. I'm sorry, but knitting and tv. still ranks higher than knitting and audio-booking for me.<br />
<br />
So here's what I've been listening to:<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pachinko-National-Book-Award-Finalist/dp/1455563927" target="_blank">Pachinko</a></u></b><br />
<img alt="Pachinko (National Book Award Finalist)" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51mulp7HJ%2BL._AC_UL320_SR210,320_.jpg" /><br />
Okay this is the winner hands down of my latest "reads". I was like an annoying teenager walking around in my own world of headphones when I was in this. I was knitting and crying while my family watched cult movies that I don't care about. I have told everyone that I loved it. I could think about it afterwards and want to cry. Takes place in occupied Korea and Japan. I forgot how capable I am of getting sucked into a family drama. It covers 4 generations if I remember correctly and it's heart is so full even when broken. A work, people. <b>A work</b>. <b>"Exceeds expectations"</b> LOL<br />
<br />
<b><u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Woman-Window-Novel-Finn/dp/0062678426" target="_blank">Woman in the Window </a></u></b><br />
<img alt="The Woman in the Window: A Novel" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51-hugPWA0L._AC_SR160,160_.jpg" /><br />
In the same genre as The Girl on the Train and the movie Rear Window. There are a lot of old movie allusions. I would say this would be a good vacation read. It's fun, it's not prose, it's a page turner. 2 of my best friends read it while we are on vacation, which is why I picked it up. I did think that the main character was a pretty good balance of broken with a heart in the right place. The author really tries to keep you sympathetic. In terms of what was going on ... yeah I figured that out pretty early, but I was still curious to see how it would all unfold. <b>B</b><br />
<br />
<b><u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Death-Mrs-Westaway-Ruth-Ware/dp/1911215043/" target="_blank">The Death of Mrs. Westaway</a></u></b><br />
<img alt="Simon & Schuster" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51C4xxzWsHL._AC_SX200_SY200_.jpg" /><br />
This was definitely one I got from the Knitters. I know <a href="http://kbshee.blogspot.com/2018/05/satamran-on-thursday.html" target="_blank">Kim Knits</a> read it. But I'm pretty sure at least one more of you read it and I'm sorry that my brain cannot remember who. This had all the feels of a PBS special. You know, where a death brings everyone together in a big old house and lands past it's prime. It has family secrets, fraud, and all the good stuff. One thing I was a little disappointed in was that the author used a journal to share some backstory (i.e. clues) and I felt like it took away a bit for me until the main character found the actual journal. This is my issue I realize. I really enjoyed it more than I was expecting. Also the narration was great and I want to learn how to do a Cornish accent now. Just kidding.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Magpies-Novel-Sam-Clair/dp/1250080940/" target="_blank">A Murder of Magpies</a></u></b><br />
<img alt="A Murder of Magpies: A Novel (Sam Clair)" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81GWr58JUvL.__BG0,0,0,0_FMpng_AC_UL320_SR212,320_.jpg" /><br />
Okay before I get into it, the Brits are really serious about their Magpie themes. This is the 3rd book where magpies are a feature or reference. I also had to quick google to tell you that Magpies and Crows are not the same but part of the same bird family, though in the lore they seem kind of interchangeable.<br />
<br />
Yeah about the story. I could not STAND the narration of this audiobook. Seriously the woman's intonation was that of an automated phone operator,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Hello, you've reached (end high) company name (lower here) pause to speak to -- (follows same tone") press 2 (same tone)."</blockquote>
<i>* I realize this may not translate and I'm sorry, but that's the best I can do, because I'm not inserting video/recording today.</i><br />
<br />
Look that intonation is fine for a phone operator. It works. but to hear that intonation over and over again was killing me. The saving grace was the Mom character. Despite the main character's feelings of being in her mother's shadow, I liked her and I narrator's voice was better and she even seemed to change the narration a bit. My book friend at work thought I would like it because it's got that publishing world vibe. But the mystery wasn't all that. I honestly couldn't pay great attention to it, since it was more Corporate Financial mystery with a lot of loose screws. I dunno. Someone else read it and get back to me. I admit that my attention span waned so much but I was not invested enough to rewind. I do have it checked out in the book version to do a thumb through to see if what I missed was of any value. I'm not convinced. I'll let you know if that changes. I give it a <b>C</b> tops.<br />
<br />
Well that's all for now. I'm working my through The Goldfinch and so far it's LOVE. I'll give you the full report when I finish.<br />
<br />
I have a full weekend coming. My hopes and dreams in no particular order:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Make good snacks</li>
<li>Not get injured</li>
<li>No arguing with the teen. May I wish for a spider hug?</li>
<li>Bake TWO cakes</li>
<li>Finish a baby sweater -- including buttons! You all know how I get all pinched up when it's button time!</li>
<li>Dinner with friends who I do not see very often</li>
<li>Massage</li>
<li>Quality grown up beverage</li>
</ul>
<br />
Tell me, what are your hopes and dreams? Do you feel like you have to choose between reading and another hobby? What hobby do you wish you had more time for? Read anything you'd recommend?<br />
<br />
Yours in knitting and best wishes,<br />
<br />
Ellen<br />
<br />elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-84147069518476542782018-09-24T17:30:00.003-07:002018-09-24T17:30:28.846-07:00Chugging alongI don't really know about the title of the post. It's all I got right now.<br />
<br />
Kinda lame post title, I know, I apologize but brain work funny sometimes or doesn't work sometimes ...<br />
Anyways, there are those "things" that are happening. Not a theme of something specific, but -- things.<br />
<br />
So let's start w/baking.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4aEDttPE3I/W6l-rLAiyAI/AAAAAAAADdU/j_OET-BshkQzl_MyDRpYbHzxk7V71hkYACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2518.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4aEDttPE3I/W6l-rLAiyAI/AAAAAAAADdU/j_OET-BshkQzl_MyDRpYbHzxk7V71hkYACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2518.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
I have been trying to do something different or new to me or a rerun of something I wasn't pleased with lately. I aim for twice a week, but it really becomes once, because I still need my regular (people need to eat it) bake as well.<br />
<br />
This week I tried<a href="https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2017/08/blackberry-cake-recipe.html" target="_blank"> blackberry cake</a> using puree from Serious Eats. This was not my best work. Despite reading through the recipe a few times, I still managed to do things out of order and this was not good for the cake. The blackberry flavor did not come through and it was not as airy as I would've liked, a little dense. Fruit is always tricky. Also, I do not use my immersion blender very often so I was a little wild with it initially and my kitchen looked a bit like a gory science fiction blood scene.<i> (Did you see The Thing? Are you familiar with alien blood, not to be confused with "Alien" blood that is actually flesh eating acid? HA!)</i><br />
<br />
Regardless of my self induced mess, because I'm a sucker for punishment, and I like Stella Parks (aka BraveTart) I think I will try it again.<br />
<br />
I finally cast on for a baby sweater and it's really cute.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LEGAsdjQWK0/W6mAMXvrAUI/AAAAAAAADdg/vP9lucGbe_oBlqx0DqXGjpfSVWQoNBELACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2505.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LEGAsdjQWK0/W6mAMXvrAUI/AAAAAAAADdg/vP9lucGbe_oBlqx0DqXGjpfSVWQoNBELACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2505.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm hoping to finish this one up within the week. That may seem like a long time to you for something that basically just needs some edging and small person sleeves, but this is my reality.<br />
<br />
In an ideal world I'd cast on a pair of socks after because hello, socks! and I miss socks and I want to knit socks all the time, but I have a few other "to dos" that I think if I knit first, will help me enjoy a year of continuous sock knitting without concern for anyone else. Also guys, little not so secret, if you have too many pairs of socks, you can give them away really easily. People LOVE hand knit socks.<br />
<br />
Selfish Sock Knitting -- it's ALL the rage.<br />
<br />
Tell me are you knitting for yourself or others? What is your favorite thing to knit? Is it a constant favorite or do you like to trade it around?elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-82208234338792331862018-09-04T17:58:00.002-07:002018-09-04T17:58:42.010-07:00A pair for a pair.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S50emP5F4oQ/W48m868il4I/AAAAAAAADc8/bMz8JTycuCAd86OZFFKPpi0EYa6os99SACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2421.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S50emP5F4oQ/W48m868il4I/AAAAAAAADc8/bMz8JTycuCAd86OZFFKPpi0EYa6os99SACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2421.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
It took me a while to finish these sock. I had a few setbacks and I won't lie, the extra weaving in for contrast heels and toes was not fun, but I do love to whine about weaving in.<br />
<br />
I worried I would have to play yarn chicken to squeeze out the second pair, but once I was half way through the foot on the second sock I relaxed a bit.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAiOehENh-Y/W48qDld2CzI/AAAAAAAADdI/Ea5hzLW-HEAgpKTBFSr948_ekBiF0EivwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2423.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VAiOehENh-Y/W48qDld2CzI/AAAAAAAADdI/Ea5hzLW-HEAgpKTBFSr948_ekBiF0EivwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_2423.jpg" width="288" /></a><br />
<br />
When these dry out, I'll need to stick them in the mail.<br />
<br />
I knit these for a friend and her daughter. They can share or decide who gets which pair. I hope they bring some warmth and happiness.<br />
<br />
I think ankle socks are great warm weather knitting projects. I haven't been knitting as much as I'd like, but that's how it goes.<br />
<br />
There is so much to do this evening, but I'm secretly hoping to cast on something else tonight. Fingers crossed, knitters.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-36726475753931023412018-08-30T18:02:00.006-07:002018-08-30T18:02:58.903-07:00Thursday Share<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urMqRU_QDys/W4iSgShjSmI/AAAAAAAADcs/7AJBRiLZUzEgTMPoSOMRx1dNup0i1CRyACLcBGAs/s1600/catsonsheep_attractivenature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="943" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urMqRU_QDys/W4iSgShjSmI/AAAAAAAADcs/7AJBRiLZUzEgTMPoSOMRx1dNup0i1CRyACLcBGAs/s320/catsonsheep_attractivenature.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
<br />
I saw this photo on the internet and I saved it and thought I'd share it because it gives me great joy. I've been trying to enjoy stories, hobbies, get my kid off to another school year, work and work and work and get over an illness and keep my sanity.<br />
<br />
The sanity part is still questionable.<br />
<br />
Some days I'm very tired. But today I'm laughing at cats on the backs of sheep.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-29192757417954939812018-07-30T17:17:00.001-07:002018-07-30T17:17:12.763-07:00Summer Reads and I'm sorry, some rantingI have finished 3 books this summer and it feels good. I know some of you are prolific readers, but this is the hobby that has suffered the most in the past years. Time. Never. Enough. Time.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyhow this is what I read and my general feelings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/514Oi-7cLQL._SX322_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Never-Let-Me-Kazuo-Ishiguro/dp/1400078776" target="_blank">Never Let Me Go</a> by Kazuo Ishiguro.</div>
<div>
This was a real page turner for me. I had a 2 hour flight between Copenhagen and Split and I literally read over a hundred pages easily. I loved the flow of the writing. Ishiguro's style is classic show don't tell. The ability to allow specifics to be revealed through description and subtle indicators in plot is always a joy, especially when a story is being told first person -- which can easily devolve in being told what is of value.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's an odd dystopian memoir fiction piece that may not make any sense, but it's better that way. I promise you. The truth is it really focuses on human relationships, human nature and the odd dynamics of friendship through the years.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
WIN.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img alt="Magpie Murders: A Novel by [Horowitz, Anthony]" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41OtsmHYJLL.jpg" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M1G8JQE/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1" target="_blank">Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz</a></div>
<div>
I really wanted a nice little murder mystery for my travels. I had started this book a while before, but never got around to finishing it because you know, life. Well I was so pleased to pick it back up during my holiday. I really enjoyed it in the beginning it had a great familiar feel to it. It alludes to Agatha Christie, Midsommer Murders and a bunch of other British Mysteries. It captures that old "village vibe" and went with some British commentary.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I am glad I read it. I was fine with the finish, but there were a few times when I felt like it was trying a bit hard, but I liked it. Also maybe my attention span was waning because I was hurrying to figure out who did it. I read a lot of this in the car.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you love murder mysteries as much as I do, I'd add it to your list. I have it on my kindle and I can imagine in a few years rereading it because I probably won't remember who did it. Old Age or a creature of habit that likes all things to feel like a favorite cardigan?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/511iKPi1cnL._SX332_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/All-Boys-Ive-Loved-Before/dp/1534438378/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" target="_blank">To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han</a></div>
<div>
This is like YA RomCom. This was potato chip reading. This was best read alone at the kitchen table with a bowl of soup for lunch where I literally laughed out loud every few paragraphs. Goodness High School was such an awkward time. The FEELINGS!! So Many Feelings!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
*most of these feelings are embarrassment, confusion and frustration.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As I mentioned I hear my sister's voice as the narrator because though my sister is very quiet, she's actually a Feeler and when they get her going she can be a little all over the place. I'm just very loud and expressive. She's just chaotic emotion. Feels one way, it comes out another. Also, my sister expressed more interest in boys than I did at that age. Oh I was boy crazy in my brain but I tried to be really cool about it. My sister had bona fide BOYFRIENDS in High School.<br />
<br />
I'd lend it to her right now but she's on my poop list. I love her, I'll be over it in another day. I should've been over it in 2 hours, but I don't work like that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways, you see? It's made me think and feel all the feelings, just like a high school Celine Dion and here we are. <a href="http://autumngeisha.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">AutumnGeisha</a> mentioned there is a series. So here I am, waiting for the rest of my books to come so I can decide what I think of the entire series and tell you. I do not think I'll be reading YA RomComs on the regular, but I am enjoying this.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want my son to read it because he's an actual High Schooler so I'm sure he'll tell me what is ridiculous and I am secretly trying to infiltrate his cool guy genres of Sci Fi and Action Movies and "Art". (All of which I love too, but his Dad is really feeding some B grade stupid stuff to him and some things that require a little more focus in my opinion. But what can you do?)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made them watch When Harry Met Sally for my birthday. And everyone was reluctantly admitting it was cuter and better than they thought it would be. I'm not super gushy, but you know, no one likes a snob. If you try different things a few times then you might have a more credible explanation of why you don't like it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways the movie is being released on Netflix August 17th. Very excited. This is how I will be spending my Friday night. AND Crazy Rich Asians is being released in the movie theaters the same weekend. In my entire life I can't remember 2 mainstream (not subtitled ART) movies featuring Asian Leads opening within the same year let alone the same weekend. This is kind of a big deal to me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was hoping the Kid would read the book before he watched the movie, but I'm not going to push it. He's reading another YA right now, and he still has a bunch of summer assignments to finish so I shouldn't fuss. But ... JUST FOR ALL THAT MAKES THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE, READ. PLEASE JUST READ!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sorry that capitalized Mom moment was brought to you by teenage parenting. If you ever would've told me that one day this child would need to be reminded to read I would've given you the "what?" face. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh parenthood, you tricky tricky beast.<br />
<br />
He can cook for himself, so see you are all my witnesses and it is now documented, I mother of H has said something positive about him, as he is not just what he can do or what he should do. Nominate me please as petty parent of the year and I will make you all feel infinitely better about whatever job you are doing yourselves.<br />
<br />
We could've had a cat. Cats are so cute you don't care if they don't do dishes or leave the convection door open ... EVERY. DAY.<br />
<br />
Think like a Positive Mom Says: He went for a walk on his own today and took out the compost, recycling and trash and gave me a morning hug without being asked yay. (I know his hugs are a bit bonier than a cat snuggle but I'll take it.)<br />
<br />
Alright enough venting. What are you all reading? What movies are you looking forward to seeing? What's in your Netflix queue?<br />
<br />
OOooo maybe next post will be a media one ...<br />
<br /></div>
elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-14380371045668695612018-07-25T10:59:00.000-07:002018-07-25T10:59:45.624-07:00The Wednesday WhatknotI'm happy so many of you enjoyed my travel / packing commentary post. Kathy mentioned she was going to share it with her boys and I have to say I really enjoyed packing the boys. They require extra socks and lots of adapters, cables and expensive @ss noise cancelling headphones. We used to have one pair that were supposedly a birthday present of mine. In 3 years I have never worn them as someone else needs them more. That's ok with me. I'm very happy with my little earbuds, the other noise doesn't bug me as much.<br />
<br />
Have knitting will travel with a smile.<br />
<br />
What else? Well it seems nature is having her way with the Nation's summer temperatures ... again. Flooding, ridiculous heat. I worry for people that do not have the necessary access, support and infrastructure for such extremes. Some areas have patterns so they are prepared, some ... not so much.<br />
<br />
Well not to humble brag, but I'm gonna. Here's a tweet regarding the bubble I live in:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en">
Come to San Francisco in July they said<br />
It'll be warm they said <a href="https://t.co/11nxnnF4RA">pic.twitter.com/11nxnnF4RA</a></div>
— Drew Tuma (@DrewTumaABC7) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrewTumaABC7/status/1021931608989827073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the record. July is never warm in SF. It's infamously foggy. You get sun from 11 am - 4pm -- maybe in SF proper. I would say our warmer month is end of August - first week or so of October but I may be recalling my youth and not the shift that we've been recently experiencing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Look at me, full blown grown up chatting about the weather. Ha! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am reading YA right now. "To All the Boys I Loved Before." It's young, so easy and makes me laugh outloud. For whatever reason the main character reminds me of my sister. It's told first person, so that's the voice I hear when I read it. You could read this thing in like 4 hours, but I'm busy! I will finish it this weekend for sure. Then I will give you my final verdict on this summer read, along with a book I finished on vacation. I know, I will have read two books. WHO AM I?!?!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am knitting a pair of socks, meaning I'm knitting 2 pairs from the same yarn for a mother / daughter team. One pair is done, I'm half way through the first sock of the second pair. Give it a little time kids. I'm working on it. I'm a very monogamous knitter these days. It's odd.I used to be such a project slut, but you know there's no shame here. Knit your life how you want to as long as you're enjoying yourself and all projects are consenting.<br />
<br />
There are some people I think that were hoping for a few items a while ago, but it is what it is. I never made promises. I have to follow the knitting mojo.<br />
<br />
Whats your whatknot? What's got you happy and what's got you fraying and fretting?</div>
elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-85591699620352016312018-07-24T10:02:00.004-07:002018-07-24T10:02:46.236-07:00Ellen's Travel ItemsIf you're anything like me, you like to keep it efficient when you pack. Even if I over pack a tad, I want to know there was a specific purpose I expected out of an item. In this post I'll discuss winning travel items, and things that weren't used.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So this was a cross between a site seeing and beach vacation (though technically the coast of Croatia is very rocky. )</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Winners:</div>
<div>
1. My new <a href="https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-nylon-duffel-pack-darkgreen?collection=womens-backpacks-bags" target="_blank">duffel from Everlane</a>.</div>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q02M6JM2OhY/W1Ezz__cGzI/AAAAAAAADYY/ZA834Fh7HrYY4E0P6c9zrQWjHfDrBygpACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/duffel_everlane.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q02M6JM2OhY/W1Ezz__cGzI/AAAAAAAADYY/ZA834Fh7HrYY4E0P6c9zrQWjHfDrBygpACK4BGAYYCw/s320/duffel_everlane.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This thing was easy to pack, easy to carry in 2 ways and took a beating. Love it. Very reasonably priced for the quality. Can be used for carry on I think, Quick weekend get aways, and yes, in my 40s still dragging my laundry to our parents house when we visit. (City apartment living, man)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. <a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/steve-madden-dina-sandal-women/4813318?origin=category-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FBrands%2FSteve%20Madden%2FWomen%2FShoes%2FSandals&color=white%20leather" target="_blank">Steve Madden Dina Sandals.</a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IL0HLLXUvgI/W1E0hH4qf_I/AAAAAAAADYs/SpjIWLn2_IgwHfH_fkWbY0n3t2xlAaRSwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/stevemadden_nordstroms.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IL0HLLXUvgI/W1E0hH4qf_I/AAAAAAAADYs/SpjIWLn2_IgwHfH_fkWbY0n3t2xlAaRSwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/stevemadden_nordstroms.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These were light weight to pack, though I wore them home -- I threw away a pair of Sketcher wedge mules I had worn and then beaten up on the way over. These sandals were surprisingly manageable on the cobblestones and were flexible with shorts and dresses for dinner.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3, Linen</div>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1GEYYZcW9Y/W1E1m7SgkzI/AAAAAAAADZE/oFCpO0VXEaoNny-QJ2MbpgJOdmeqsqFMgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/madewell_stripes.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P1GEYYZcW9Y/W1E1m7SgkzI/AAAAAAAADZE/oFCpO0VXEaoNny-QJ2MbpgJOdmeqsqFMgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/madewell_stripes.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wore 2 linen dresses from <a href="https://www.madewell.com/stripe-play-button-back-tee-dress-G5305.html?dwvar_G5305_color=WQ5377&cgid=apparel-dress&position=3&position=3#sz=32&start=33" target="_blank">Madewell</a> and a pair of shorts from Marine Layer. I wear the dresses regularly at home when the weather is right and I figured I might as well have a nice pair of shorts if I'm going to wear shorts, because ugh, shorts give me some seriously unhappy middle school insecure feelings. But I think I conquered my issues this trip, at least for travel in warm weather. Don't think you'll see me sporting them to the grocery store.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
4. Leggings</div>
<div>
Whatever you like, these and a tunic shirt make for a feeling much like traveling in your jammies but a little more put together. I admit, I like expensive high waisted leggings that hold everything in if you know what I mean. There are leggings with pockets now. Did you know that? Did you know Spanx makes leggings?!?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
5.<a href="https://www.lesportsac.com/products/2526-c065" target="_blank">Lightweight crossbody bag from LeSportSac</a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mcUFvwmxcw/W1E2jfo07yI/AAAAAAAADZU/Vfa7rf_XWOEIAZ6zsmikqr_D4TDMCcUBACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/lesportsac_travel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mcUFvwmxcw/W1E2jfo07yI/AAAAAAAADZU/Vfa7rf_XWOEIAZ6zsmikqr_D4TDMCcUBACK4BGAYYCw/s320/lesportsac_travel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
Oh the irony. I was actually going to donate this 2 months earlier because I never used it. I bought it last year for my trip to Germany to visit Mom and I used it very little (because my mother is always pulling things from her closet she thinks are better. "Ellen, that is too small, what can you put in there? One Euro? EEGADS!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I digress. This my friends is a winner. After getting pickpocketed 3 years ago, I made sure to get something with zippers, snaps and cross body. I think last summer I did find it a little small, but I'm carrying less so it worked this time around. I even managed to stick a sock in knit progress in there. Though that did take up a bit of space.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
6. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Swan-Comfort-Natural-Absorbent-Swimwear/dp/B01018BXQU/ref=sr_1_7?s=bedbath&ie=UTF8&qid=1532049218&sr=1-7&keywords=turkish+towel" target="_blank">Turkish Towel</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcE3fIyqZOE/W1E4kT1TkII/AAAAAAAADZg/CUKOgNhlM5EIJnSyuQjBLNENx21x4cI2QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1734.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wcE3fIyqZOE/W1E4kT1TkII/AAAAAAAADZg/CUKOgNhlM5EIJnSyuQjBLNENx21x4cI2QCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1734.JPG" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The husband and I each have one of these that we cart around to the beach, river, etc. They are super lightweight and way better to pack than a beach towel. I bought a pack of them on Amazon and gave one to each of the boys that were traveling. They all had their own color so it was easy to identify. On top of this, it served as makeshift blanket and folded pillow, scarf on the road and general comfort item.<br />
<br />
7. AE <a href="https://www.ae.com/bras-aerie-real-sunnie-wireless-lightly-lined-bra-true-black/aerie/s-prod/4792_7762_073?cm=sUS-cUSD&catId=cat8510240" target="_blank">Wireless bra</a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hhSjSb-zq0w/W1JdyksJJ7I/AAAAAAAADcc/XJcE7iBYjpI8ovUs5pL7akpyhI1Z6ylIgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/ae_comfortable.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hhSjSb-zq0w/W1JdyksJJ7I/AAAAAAAADcc/XJcE7iBYjpI8ovUs5pL7akpyhI1Z6ylIgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/ae_comfortable.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
This is a mall discovery. I love this wireless bra I got on sale that is super comfortable and easy to pack. It's soft but has structure and it doesn't make my boobs look weird. I've got this thing about wireless, I've always assumed it was a young girl or for girls of a certain size game. Well, this works for me. My bestie who is small in body but bigger in boobs has found her own version from the same mall rat brand. Hey if it works, it works.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Ellen's Losers:</div>
<div>
1. I forgot traditional flipflops so I bought some over priced ones there, but my friend Mrs. B. helped me pick them out and that means they are pretty cute, ha!</div>
<div>
2. Lightweight sneakers. Didn't slap them on once, yet I would pack them again. What if?!?</div>
<div>
3. Long dress. Nice idea, but I didn't pack the right undergarments. Just too high maintenance. </div>
<div>
4. Scratched reading glasses. Check and double check. First day back to work I sent them out to be re-lensed. LOL</div>
<div>
5. I never pack enough toothpaste. Dental hygiene is important.<br />
<br />
Pro tip: Always pack the following in your carry on.<br />
1. Freshies (clean underwear)<br />
2. Travel Deodorant<br />
3. Toothbrush & toothpaste<br />
4. Hairbrush/hair band<br />
5. Scarf/Wrap pashmina or turkish towel style<br />
6. Purell and/or hand lotion<br />
7. Refillable water bottle.<br />
8. Pain reliever, anti-inflammatory of choice<br />
9. Lip balm<br />
<br />
International:<br />
1 set of clean clothes in case your luggage is lost.<br />
<br />
What are your essentials or lessons learned?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-36380693020916223022018-07-20T11:02:00.000-07:002018-07-20T16:21:57.961-07:00Summer HolidazeWell, last time I posted I was speeding along in the beginnings of summer. Trying to enjoy some knitting mojo. I was also trying to prep at work and home for our family summer holiday.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J3j-hQqx7yQ/W1IiE3L8NeI/AAAAAAAADac/jKTw1QJ_ObwTmLyhEhywhX1P4s_iA2iTgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1834.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J3j-hQqx7yQ/W1IiE3L8NeI/AAAAAAAADac/jKTw1QJ_ObwTmLyhEhywhX1P4s_iA2iTgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1834.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
We went to Croatia and met up with two families filled with good friends. Our boys all met in Kindergarten and brought us all together, and well it's been so fun growing up together.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EISRCZY5WKc/W1IiSBIFwLI/AAAAAAAADa4/MY51wB5YnTAgrLKDuc_GarRKX3AoQJhOACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EISRCZY5WKc/W1IiSBIFwLI/AAAAAAAADa4/MY51wB5YnTAgrLKDuc_GarRKX3AoQJhOACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1681.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
For a few reasons, we couldn't all be out at the same time. One of the families was kind enough to chaperone H. for the first week or so until we were able to fly out.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9EhgHNc05k/W1IjbnJEv4I/AAAAAAAADcE/KLE9aZv2gNgigfgRPQ4VTxe_YUPk-HL8ACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1903.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9EhgHNc05k/W1IjbnJEv4I/AAAAAAAADcE/KLE9aZv2gNgigfgRPQ4VTxe_YUPk-HL8ACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1903.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
The first week the families along with some other friends sailed along the Adriatic. Our friends were sweet enough to send us some photos and keep us posted on how everything was going. It sounded like the Kid did alright and was well behaved enough. (Though our friends are so polite and sweet, I doubt they would tell us if he was a little sh*t -- but I'm pretty sure he saves his tough stuff for us.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EfOLwHa37ac/W1IhHMPpZ5I/AAAAAAAADZs/fi2Mf7LdIJI-UbM5b9IpfEyJavQlsKIEQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/a840cd1c-d153-4d01-9e84-b278831049ca.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EfOLwHa37ac/W1IhHMPpZ5I/AAAAAAAADZs/fi2Mf7LdIJI-UbM5b9IpfEyJavQlsKIEQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/a840cd1c-d153-4d01-9e84-b278831049ca.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Teenagers lounge a lot. It's exhausting you know, teenaging while on vacation. He said it was really fun and relaxing. Living the dream right?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-25jE8IVwzpk/W1Ihy5ffgkI/AAAAAAAADZ4/OZWSHSM6oUMiiOZluM-y1AyPJkAOEafJQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1628.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-25jE8IVwzpk/W1Ihy5ffgkI/AAAAAAAADZ4/OZWSHSM6oUMiiOZluM-y1AyPJkAOEafJQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1628.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
When the husband and I got there we met them at their final port in Split. We drove to the Marina and met them for dinner on land, it was full of outside restaurant seating and happy tourists and World Cup being shown. We got a chance to say hello to some other people that would not be traveling on with us. The vibe settled it, we were on vacation!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKqWT6RdDLE/W1Iih72LJII/AAAAAAAADbQ/isuUBY-_7VwD6HOjtofdysYTvoE42izbQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1676.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKqWT6RdDLE/W1Iih72LJII/AAAAAAAADbQ/isuUBY-_7VwD6HOjtofdysYTvoE42izbQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1676.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEDjNp-fI1Y/W1Ih2VCUXvI/AAAAAAAADaA/OlbG9XzzBDE9HnOgFJBNjp3j66Y3_LrbQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1703.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEDjNp-fI1Y/W1Ih2VCUXvI/AAAAAAAADaA/OlbG9XzzBDE9HnOgFJBNjp3j66Y3_LrbQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1703.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
The next week we drove up the north of the Croatian coast. Our friends had been there previously and so we just enjoyed their previous experience and were happy to follow along their itinerary. They are such easy going and fun people. It was nice to feel like we could all travel together. I hope they felt the same.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7cnMSrCExyE/W1Ii6y07N7I/AAAAAAAADbg/kK8dlUmoRz0SofkQnsQKcX4h2TG2lhTegCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1751.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7cnMSrCExyE/W1Ii6y07N7I/AAAAAAAADbg/kK8dlUmoRz0SofkQnsQKcX4h2TG2lhTegCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1751.JPG" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NiIHCJ-SgHs/W1Ih51uc6GI/AAAAAAAADaI/rnVNp4dM3hwhr8vUcEDytvoPP86REgRmwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1916.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NiIHCJ-SgHs/W1Ih51uc6GI/AAAAAAAADaI/rnVNp4dM3hwhr8vUcEDytvoPP86REgRmwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1916.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
It's beautiful. None of us had ever been to the Adriatic. It was salty and blue and easy to float in. The dining was heavily influenced by the sea and Italy I want to say.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Otb1ai1cFs/W1Ih__RDcvI/AAAAAAAADaQ/1IdAlcxr88Qg2iRlZ3-fTvzRKgd_tQhAgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1936.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Otb1ai1cFs/W1Ih__RDcvI/AAAAAAAADaQ/1IdAlcxr88Qg2iRlZ3-fTvzRKgd_tQhAgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1936.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-samAEellkAc/W1IiYFbzeTI/AAAAAAAADbE/iOa4dcPuI0AsNvJ4MdTDBAyHdJjG-oeGACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1733.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-samAEellkAc/W1IiYFbzeTI/AAAAAAAADbE/iOa4dcPuI0AsNvJ4MdTDBAyHdJjG-oeGACK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_1733.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
We had a 5 hour drive back to Split to fly out so we checked out a day before everyone else so we wouldn't be rushed to make our 10am flight. We had just enough time to wander around an odd neighborhood to find some late night eats and get a glass of wine in the hotel lobby.<br />
<br />
The next morning we flew to Copenhagen where we had a 22 hour layover. It might sound exhausting but actually it was enough time for us to get a chance to explore the city center which is great for walking and biking. We had a nice dinner outside in the Meatpacking District and as an extra treat before returning home we stayed at a nice hotel. (Though to be completely honest, everywhere we stayed was pretty awesome in it's own way.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7ShTKYfn5A/W1IjAbNHDcI/AAAAAAAADbw/-qmnWysiMycjV19UoI-s8gqa0YrdyruDgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2075.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7ShTKYfn5A/W1IjAbNHDcI/AAAAAAAADbw/-qmnWysiMycjV19UoI-s8gqa0YrdyruDgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2075.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGt_p1sPjDk/W1Iji3vK3II/AAAAAAAADcM/v9eIv1i6iMsOaVMFPl5FoGRC0fTusyUFgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_2121.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGt_p1sPjDk/W1Iji3vK3II/AAAAAAAADcM/v9eIv1i6iMsOaVMFPl5FoGRC0fTusyUFgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/IMG_2121.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
My husband returned to work the next day and I took one more day off to shake off the jet lag. Unlike my young son and my early rising husband (they are both morning people -- gross), I don't bounce back quite so quickly.<br />
<br />
I have not stop daydreaming about taking another trip since. I had such a good time with my friends and family. :)elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-29259672584477794872018-06-14T11:46:00.000-07:002018-06-14T11:46:06.513-07:00Looks like knitting is back on the menu.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NvPpjZvLpIY/WyK3fbrV8TI/AAAAAAAADXg/rfWxltCd-C40ozBTc4Qc53exdMz3usOZACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1442%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Yes, I have found a little more knitting time. Enough to finish that pair of socks for my friend, Miche.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NvPpjZvLpIY/WyK3fbrV8TI/AAAAAAAADXg/rfWxltCd-C40ozBTc4Qc53exdMz3usOZACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1442%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NvPpjZvLpIY/WyK3fbrV8TI/AAAAAAAADXg/rfWxltCd-C40ozBTc4Qc53exdMz3usOZACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1442%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
Shes says they fit and I'm delighted. I hope they bring her some cozy happiness.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2FQaK8uHmk/WyK3q07jqzI/AAAAAAAADXs/p3OTnXMXP50QJLSsElwZKypPnFbJHirmACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2FQaK8uHmk/WyK3q07jqzI/AAAAAAAADXs/p3OTnXMXP50QJLSsElwZKypPnFbJHirmACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1443.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My name is Ellen and I love German sock yarn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I also started that giant knitting project my mother gifted me LAST year in Germany. I tried to follow the basic instructions/pattern variations/cast on my mother included from the woman who was selling the kit, but I added some stitches for the cast on and settled on doing a stockinette throw. I didn't slip the first stitch, because I read that somewhere in her general instructions, I thought it was a big yarn, big needle directive, but I wished I had. I don't wish it enough to undo what I have. LOL.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYWAmWIS2ts/WyK3OT52LHI/AAAAAAAADXM/oph1Y2zvfY8TwVLthei3kDDy7Nw4x6oJwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYWAmWIS2ts/WyK3OT52LHI/AAAAAAAADXM/oph1Y2zvfY8TwVLthei3kDDy7Nw4x6oJwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1461.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The yarn is actually 4 strands that make up an almost ribbon like look. Gives me some idea for some random yarn I have not actually purged myself of yet but I shouldn't get ahead of myself yet, and just focus on finishing this project first, right?<br />
<br />
I thought it would go faster than it has, but even though I'm knitting more, I'm not knitting every day. I just can't. That's how it is.<br />
<br />
I've already got another pair of socks on my needles for when I'm out and about. However my next thinking project (means home knitting only) will be another baby sweater. People and their babies. Sheesh.<br />
<br />
* speaking of menus here was afternoon tea on Sunday:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZDoAJi9rwE/WyK3VMd04CI/AAAAAAAADXU/HqDbVVJMHYkW9yF3gDOVIsYb5w4Lg-WEACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_1446.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZDoAJi9rwE/WyK3VMd04CI/AAAAAAAADXU/HqDbVVJMHYkW9yF3gDOVIsYb5w4Lg-WEACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_1446.JPG" width="320" /></a>elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-5086389959678000302018-05-30T12:45:00.001-07:002018-05-30T12:45:12.538-07:00Trying to enjoy the hours: Highlights of the happyIt's been a long time since I last posted. A number of reasons. The main one I think is that I'm not knitting as much. I was baking a lot since soccer and softball were underway, but it was much of the stuff I've shared before.<br />
<br />
And this is what's been happening, much of the same stuff as I've shared before.<br />
<br />
It's ok. I've worked really hard at being as boring as this.<br />
<br />
But I'm not bored, and honestly I don't think I'm all that boring. I like stuff, I like to do stuff. I know some nice people that like to hang out :)<br />
<br />
<i>(I think I'm pretty funny, but my son thinks my jokes are super bad. Bad like they stink, not like Michael Jackson Bad which is cool. in case you weren't sure what we all mean.)</i><br />
<br />
Lately, I'm trying to think and SAY good things and not just be the natural snarky snot of commentary that runs in the back of my head. It's important to back down if all you are about to do is yuck someone else's yum. I think I have been working on battling some of the inner negative. I was wound a little tightly coming out of the winter, more than I like to admit.<br />
<br />
I miss knitting. I started up again this week. Yes, normally I miss a day or two but never as long as it's recently been. I'm knitting some socks for my friend Miche that I hope will fit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tItHrHoYPjQ/Ww79IhcyOiI/AAAAAAAADWE/oYS9yKBKwy44lVH9FqnRvKsckjtZyR_IwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tItHrHoYPjQ/Ww79IhcyOiI/AAAAAAAADWE/oYS9yKBKwy44lVH9FqnRvKsckjtZyR_IwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1286.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The last pair I knit were for my friend, Georgia.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DY8XJHoA7eQ/Ww792yZJ7OI/AAAAAAAADWM/Vm3M51WP5HMwSDBbW4-p7NB1OzEFTqXTACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="522" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DY8XJHoA7eQ/Ww792yZJ7OI/AAAAAAAADWM/Vm3M51WP5HMwSDBbW4-p7NB1OzEFTqXTACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1283.JPG" width="261" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I still have big knitting dreams, but I'm tired a lot. I sleep better, I exercise more and I'm trying to stay on top of my laundry more. Laundry is so overwhelming it really is. So instead of knitting when I'm watching sports, I've been doing laundry. Remember 1 machine for 6 units in the building, I gotta be on it. ha!<br />
<br />
The world, the grind. I'm keeping pace. I'm ok. So here are a few highlights of happy:<br />
<br />
Molasses Cookies<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsPhKncvjpg/Ww7-syQYAbI/AAAAAAAADWo/4Ia-t2MZvGkCUdAtwkABJXzJdEu8nZBgQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="640" height="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CsPhKncvjpg/Ww7-syQYAbI/AAAAAAAADWo/4Ia-t2MZvGkCUdAtwkABJXzJdEu8nZBgQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1346.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Strawberry Buttermilk Cake w/crusty sugar top!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jrzeJhgd80/Ww7-s8NMRCI/AAAAAAAADWw/vgR9_xCRZqoabDuzZdO4cVfHCfR3HvOQwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="604" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6jrzeJhgd80/Ww7-s8NMRCI/AAAAAAAADWw/vgR9_xCRZqoabDuzZdO4cVfHCfR3HvOQwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1353.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
<br />
Smitten Kitchen's Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Coffee Cake. You fold the whipped egg whites INTO the batter. FLUFFY.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-18M_Dqdf7QU/Ww7-s3yqMSI/AAAAAAAADWs/H5h8tDVV96YjRCIoboHcrBgo1PoYEKbOACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-18M_Dqdf7QU/Ww7-s3yqMSI/AAAAAAAADWs/H5h8tDVV96YjRCIoboHcrBgo1PoYEKbOACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1364.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Any Yay! It's Time for the World Cup!! Send me all your duplicate stickers ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pumrTUzIm-o/Ww7-tF8H5EI/AAAAAAAADW0/K4cJD9REmIsQEqsQ6r0ym3w47dMYIGE6wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pumrTUzIm-o/Ww7-tF8H5EI/AAAAAAAADW0/K4cJD9REmIsQEqsQ6r0ym3w47dMYIGE6wCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1386.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Find your happy. xoxoelnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-25605287537627688422018-02-12T17:25:00.001-08:002018-02-12T17:25:54.901-08:00Buttermilk Biscuits<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5J9grL4fHTM/WoI9hpv3xcI/AAAAAAAADUE/4q2mnb23pI8_jJQICDUo3FACpK100mNmgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0819.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5J9grL4fHTM/WoI9hpv3xcI/AAAAAAAADUE/4q2mnb23pI8_jJQICDUo3FACpK100mNmgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0819.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Since a few of you asked about the buttermilk biscuit recipe. I thought I'd post the <a href="https://thecafesucrefarine.com/ridiculously-easy-buttermilk-biscuits/" target="_blank">link/recipe</a> I used.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz_HxMdh9e0/WoI9ok1t_-I/AAAAAAAADUM/NlzlqXjf2ugkJxij0zQTZfYDCH54Go8vACK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz_HxMdh9e0/WoI9ok1t_-I/AAAAAAAADUM/NlzlqXjf2ugkJxij0zQTZfYDCH54Go8vACK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0818.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
Here are a few notes from me.<br />
<br />
1. I melt one stick of butter for the actual batter in a small sauce pan to add to my chilled buttermilk. While the biscuits are baking I melt an additional tablespoon to then brush on the finished product. Melting all 9 tablespoons to then divide after seems silly to me, but whatever works for you.<br />
<br />
2. My oven doesn't do well over 400 degrees. I rent so getting a new oven isn't really an option and I want my landlord to like me so I do not ask/request much. So I baked them at 400. I just kept an eye on them for the timing. Not a problem. I check them at about the 15 minute mark. If you are not sure how your oven runs, check at 10 mins then 15 and watch the color.<br />
<br />
3. I've used these for breakfast sandwiches, fried chicken sandwiches, plain as a side or in the morning just with jam. They definitely stand up by themselves. There are only 3 of us in the apartment so I keep them in a ziplock bag. I will often put them in a fridge if I'm worried about them going off/stale and then toast them back up in the toaster oven. I don't know bread storage rules so I just make up my own.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ELFF6DAQIcY/WoI9zIdqDHI/AAAAAAAADUc/8fwR5xim2bAcm4ok7nwT6Lh5ONSbKDM9wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0960.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ELFF6DAQIcY/WoI9zIdqDHI/AAAAAAAADUc/8fwR5xim2bAcm4ok7nwT6Lh5ONSbKDM9wCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0960.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
I think I've posted about this <a href="https://food52.com/recipes/34244-sausage-cheddar-and-chive-biscuit-bread" target="_blank">breakfast bread</a> as well that I converted into biscuits, but just in case... Really lovely served with soft scrambled eggs with sauteed veggies. I take the batter and ice cream scoop it into a muffin pan :)<br />
<br />
For those of you trying to determine what the<a href="https://food52.com/recipes/3060-lemon-posset" target="_blank"> posset</a> is like I would say it's a citrus cream with the texture of pudding? Smooth and bright. I highly recommend regular lemons instead of Meyers or mix with the meyers to avoid being too sweet.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-72485646011267693702018-02-09T17:38:00.001-08:002018-02-09T17:38:11.464-08:00This and thatI don't have any finished knitting for you right now. I'm knitting but it's very slow and methodical. A pair or 2 of handwarmers in a chunky-ish weight yarn.<br />
<br />
I have not been knitting as much as I'd like mainly because by the time I have time, I'm exhausted.<br />
<br />
But you know, I'm busy. It's not crazy. I might be crazy, but things aren't. I'm just busy. But here are a few highlights of the past week. (I know you were just <i>dying </i> for the info.)<br />
<br />
My son has not been very active since Fall soccer finished. We didn't push it. We thought we'd give him some time to continue focusing on his first semester in High School. We thought, you know, he can use this time to maybe see if there are other interests or sports he'd like to explore besides soccer. (We can feel the interest waning)<br />
<br />
Well what the heck to parents know? Squat. The Kid does better with some structure. He does not self explore without a nudge out the door.<br />
<br />
So I signed him up for a 5k. He was not excited to be there.<br />
<br />
I was even less enthused. I've been really good about being consistently active but the running thing? Yeah not feeling it. The things we do out of love ...<br />
<br />
I haven't been baking much either. Just biscuits. I'm kind of obsessed with a new to me buttermilk biscuit recipe. It's so easy and so rewarding. But that will change. Next month both soccer for him and softball for me start up. Cookies for spring sports.<br />
<br />
The Teen took a turn in the kitchen after his Dad brought home a bunch of lemons. A <a href="https://food52.com/recipes/3060-lemon-posset" target="_blank">lemon posset</a> so simple and so delicious. Give it a try. Bonus points if you can get someone else to make it for you.<br />
<br />
This Tuesday I went to a Silent Reading Party hosted by some local do gooders. People come together in a public space to read silently for about 2 hours. Drink purchases and donations go towards a local underfunded public school library. I used to tease a good friend of mine who served as hostess this month about this concept, but I really enjoyed it. I think that I haven't been able to read for more than 30 mins at a time before that. I was home in time to spend most of the evening with my family ... and hopefully I left a small donation that will put a book in some students' hands.<br />
<br />
Wishing you all a good weekend. Be happy, healthy and crafty.elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-40476223262406293892018-01-30T18:08:00.002-08:002018-01-30T18:08:37.388-08:00Christmas Socks 2017 Considering I finished my 2016 Xmas socks at the end of 2017, I think I'm doing pretty well. I wore those while I knit these. ha!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KNnrrDmWV8/WnD555K8AyI/AAAAAAAADTo/vDbEqgUtmuYRedkSem6KBO-apEKsobpxgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0912.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KNnrrDmWV8/WnD555K8AyI/AAAAAAAADTo/vDbEqgUtmuYRedkSem6KBO-apEKsobpxgCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0912.JPG" width="256" /></a><br />
<br />
Aside from the tangle from hell, I really enjoyed knitting these socks. I think this is the first time I have ever done a contrast cuff, heel, and toe. Can you believe that? I just never got around to it, but I saw the example on one of the West Yorkshire Spinners sites, (website? Intagram?) and was wooed. I didn't even mind weaving the ends in.<br />
<br />
Something I'm noticing with my basic sock construction. I like a very wide toe and will decrease until there are still 16 or even 18 left on the needles. It means I need to knit on the foot a little longer than other people, but that's ok. I am here for relaxed toes and not squish squashed ones.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R1Mw7ea1BQU/WnEjmrNYj7I/AAAAAAAADT0/g97ZBLBYQp0RpLYLn8v5gca4QOuzV7fwwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0913.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R1Mw7ea1BQU/WnEjmrNYj7I/AAAAAAAADT0/g97ZBLBYQp0RpLYLn8v5gca4QOuzV7fwwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0913.JPG" width="256" /></a><br />
<br />
I'll tell you the truth. My love of Christmas socks is something borderline bonkers. I am obsessed with hunting down Christmassy sock yarn. I gravitate towards the red / green/ white combination, but I'm also susceptible to Gingerbread themes. I ordered some that I saw Autumngeisha knit up that just wooed me.<br />
<br />
This means I will plan on knitting multiple pairs of Christmas socks for 2018. I will start in October. Really I will! There is a project that I'm hoarding for behind Christmas socks, I am going to eventually (maybe when I retire?) knit a sock square blanket thing that's completely Christmas sock themed. Imagine!elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9032307225540121813.post-40480752991160722622018-01-26T15:02:00.000-08:002018-01-26T16:42:48.775-08:00Baby Gramps Cardigan made by a Grumpy Knitter<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4Q5qs9e0D8/Wmuyz_KZ9AI/AAAAAAAADTM/7FovCnVRVY8e6XlVu2NqNwqQ31GVl-wiACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="640" height="290" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4Q5qs9e0D8/Wmuyz_KZ9AI/AAAAAAAADTM/7FovCnVRVY8e6XlVu2NqNwqQ31GVl-wiACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0900.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm embarrassed to say I started this in June when my neighbor had her son early. I thought no big deal, I'll finish it way before he can grow out of it ...<br />
<br />
And now he is 7 mos old.<br />
<br />
I'll be honest. I usually turn to the Baby Sophisticate for my old man cardigan. However ChrisKnits knits up a beautiful Gramps AND really likes the pattern. She found the shape better fitting for babies as well, which was well worth a try.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qweXDJPxJ-s/Wmuy8Qhc4VI/AAAAAAAADTQ/exO1Yi87G4smmkHbobd8D3fsiQiUUL7EQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="544" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qweXDJPxJ-s/Wmuy8Qhc4VI/AAAAAAAADTQ/exO1Yi87G4smmkHbobd8D3fsiQiUUL7EQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0904.JPG" width="272" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The pattern is not difficult.<br />
<br />
So why was this so hard for me to finish?<br />
<br />
1. My first road block came right after casting on and the set up row:<br />
<br />
Row 1 (RS): [knit to 1 st before marker, m1, k2, m1]<br />
4 times, knit to end [8 sts inc]<br />
<br />
I was perplexed. Then I went to the posts for the pattern and someone else basically wrote what I was smacking the side of my head about:<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "lucida sans unicode" , "lucida grande" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.54px;">I cast on the second smallest size. Row 2 tells you to knit until one stitch before marker m1, k2, m1. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "lucida sans unicode" , "lucida grande" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.54px;">There’s only 2 stitches before the first marker.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "lucida sans unicode" , "lucida grande" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.54px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "lucida sans unicode" , "lucida grande" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.54px;">The response:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "lucida sans unicode" , "lucida grande" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.54px;">Right, so you will k1, m1, k1, slip marker, k1, m1</span><br />
<br />
It's very hard to feel motivated when you struggle 2 rows or so after casting on.<br />
<br />
2. The color I got really tired of this blue. I know, it's <a href="https://www.mancity.com/" target="_blank">Manchester City Blue</a> so I should be like yay!! But I'm a grumpy knitter. I do not have a reason for being tired of it other than it was stash yarn. I need to get over it, because most of the coming year is dedicated to a lot of stash knitting.<br />
<br />
3. Halfway through the shawl I realized I hadn't done any of my ribbing with smaller needles AND, I forgot how to properly shortrow when picking up in ribbing. ugh. Thank you Googles.<br />
<br />
4. Didn't like the buttons I originally picked out so I had to go to the ... STORE. Where I spent more money than I needed to because where there are buttons there are usually other things too, like fabric, crafts and yarn. (psst, I don't even sew!)<br />
<br />
It all worked out.<br />
<br />
I have another old man cardigan to knit for a 3 year old and yes, I'm going to use The Gramps pattern again, with stash yarn, but this time, it's a darker heather blue. Maybe I'll wait a few projects before I cast on. Still, feel free to wish me luck ;)elnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09654199835246576704noreply@blogger.com25