Thoughts from the Basement

Lots going on

2007-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

We finally have started to get with the modern times at our house. Thanks to a lovely and useful Christmas gift, we have finally signed up for a membership to Netflix. It is very exciting for me as it is a major breakthrough in Big Daddy's ban on indiscriminate spending. We have already selected several movies that I should be able to review for you in the coming weeks. Thanks Mary for making this move with the times possible!!
This has been a big week for Ole Miss sports. After holding #1 Vanderbilt to just one hit on Saturday, Lance Lynn was named National Pitcher of the Week. The Rebs took one of three from the Commodores. We were so close to winning the others but all that counts is the final score. At least we have the hardest series of the season out of the way. The Diamond Rebs won their mid-week match-up against South Alabama 8-6 in Mobile on Wednesday. SEC play continues this weekend with Ole Miss hosting the baseball team from the Capstone. The men's basketball team concluded their season in the second round of the NIT with at loss to #1 seed Clemson. The Rebel roundballers concluded the season with a 21-13 record and a trip to post-season play for the first time in what seems like forever. The Lady Rebel basketball team is making some noise in the NCAA Women's Tournament easily handling first round opponent TCU and eliminating last year's National Champions the Maryland Terrapins. Good luck to the Lady Rebs as they take on Oklahoma in the SWEET SIXTEEN!!!!!

Family trip to the zoo

2007-03-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Friday the kid's daycare was closed for a mini Spring break so we took advantage of the situation and went to the zoo. Big Daddy and I had not been to the zoo since our little man was about 3 so we were long overdue. Since our last trip, the Northwest Passage exhibit has been added. This exhibit features

In addition to the polar bears, there are sea lions, black bears, and American bald eagles. I have to say that the gift shop at the Northwest Passage has lots of neat stuff. You know I love a good gift shop. We are now the proud owners of a stuffed baby sea lion!!

Of course, my favorites are the pandas. I love those guys. One of them was outside having a snack. We also had the pleasure of seeing the panda poop. Panda poop is yellow oddly enough. I thought maybe it would be more green what with all the bamboo.
I will have to finish up our recount of the zoo tomorrow as it is time for me to go home!!!!!

To the second round we go

2007-03-15T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Rebs were victorious last night in their first round game of the NIT. Next up are the Clemson Tigers. Since Clemson is the #1 seed in our region, we will have to travel there for the game on Monday. This season, team won 16 games at Tad Smith which is now the record for home wins in a single season. It also extends our home win streak to 9 games. I have been nothing but proud of this team and their accomplishments. I am looking forward to watching what they can do next year.

NIT here we come

2007-03-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight marks the first time that Ole Miss has reached post-season play in basketball since 2002. While I was really disappointed that we came close to getting a bid to the Big Dance and couldn't close the deal, overall I am happy. This is a team that hadn't had a winning season in several years. Our new head coach Andy Kennedy has been nothing short of phenomenal to take this group of perennial losers and given the program it's first winning season since that NCAA appearance. This years team boasts a 20-12 record with their 8-8 showing in season play winning them Co-West Champion honors. Tonight's match-up, however, is a huge problem for me. I do not agree with the #4 seed that we were "awarded" in the bracket. We will play one game and home and then be on the road for the rest of the tourney. I think that with our final record and our RPI, we deserve to be a #2 seed at minimum. Here is to hoping that East Tennessee State is able to beat Clemson tonight and the Rebels can stay in the friendly confines of Tad Smith.
On another Rebel related note, our baseball team stands at 14-5 going into SEC play this weekend at #1 Vanderbilt.

Why do they change books to make them movies??

2007-03-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

Big Daddy and I recently sat down to watch some new releases. We don't watch movies very much and hardly ever rent them so this was a big occasion. We each got to choose one movie. We have watched my choice so I will proceed to talk about it now. SPOILER ALERT: IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE MOVIE THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA THEN YOU NEED TO STOP RIGHT HERE!!!!
A few months ago, this book was on my nightstand. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and thought that it was sure to make a great movie. Well, I was completely wrong. I suppose that if you are not anal like me, you might like the movie just fine. I don't mind a few changes here and now as I understand that the movie can only be so long, but COME ON PEOPLE. I see no need to basically rewrite the whole story just to make the movie fit your time frame and budget. I thought that the movie made Miranda entirely too personal. The Miranda in the book would have never EVER told Andi something as personal as that she was asked for a divorce. They were much more chummy than they were in the book. Also, the movie took the focus off of Andi's other relationships so that you couldn't see that she was neglecting all aspects of her life and not just her boyfriend. All in all, it is a good movie but I guess I can't separate the book and the movie very well. Are there any other movies that you like but think the book is better??
Tonight we are watching Big Daddy's choice the Oscar winning film The Departed. I will be sure to let you know what I think.

WOW

2007-03-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

That is really all I can say to describe our experience at Texas de Brazil. The food there is excellent and the dining style is unique. The salad bar is like no other. You could get a full meal off of the 50+ selections alone. There was the usual salad and ceaser salad fixings, soup and various other items you might expect to find on the salad bar. There was also sushi, salmon, and imported cheeses. Once you flip your circle to green, however, the real fun begins. I believe that we had 5 different cuts of beef, some chicken and some pork. In addition, there were ribs, sausage, and leg of lamb. We also had garlic mashed potatoes, fried polenta and fried sweet bananas. It was one of the most incredible meals I have ever eaten. I would highly recommend that you join their Rewards Club. The coupons make the meal affordable for almost any budget. Plus, you are right in the thick of downtown Memphis. Next time we hope to make a stop by the Flying Saucer for a pre-dinner drink. It is also on our list of places to go. There is a chance that we will go back to Memphis on May 2 to see the Rebels play the Memphis Tigers at Auto Zone Park. I really think that I am putting my fear of Memphis behind me, don't you? More about my birthday to follow tomorrow.

Happy Birthday to ME!!!!

2007-03-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my birthday but today is my birthday observed. I received a lovely gift from Mary Heather that you can read about here and here. I also enjoyed a fine birthday lunch at Taylor Grocery. Catfish is always good and today it was exceptional. My office-mates also suprised me with an ice cream cake from Baskin Robbins. Tonight, Big Daddy and I are going to travel to Texas de Brazil for a romantic dinner. It will be our first time to eat there so I will provide a full commentary next week. Boy, this getting younger every year is exhausting.
Tonight, Ole Miss will face LSU in the second round of the SEC basketball tournament. I do not like this match-up at all and will not be a bit suprised if we lose. I hope that I am proven wrong!!

The way of the world

2007-03-08T08:49:00.000-08:00

Goodness, it has been a long time since I have written here. So many things have gone on in the world- Anna Nicole, Britney, lots of things that I doubt I can even remember. Politics are heating up with the annoucements for presidential bids. Hilary, Barack (sp), Pretty Boy John- ugh. Not at all appealing to me. Of course, the GOP hopefuls do not wow me either. Regardless, it promises to provide lots to talk about. Anne Coulter and Bill Mahar (gag gag gag) are also providing some fodder for everyone. They make their money being shocking and I wonder just how far they will go to push the limits. I for one, am anxious to see how the media excueses Mr. Pretty Boy and his new multi-million dollar mansion as he continues to bemoan the gap between the "two Americas". How about he live with the poor America for a while so he can see just how we all have it. I mean how crazy is it that poor people will listen to a guy that lives in a huge gated mansion tell them that he can solve their problems. How dumb can the American people really be?? I guess we will know next November won't we?

I took a test one time

2006-12-08T14:26:00.000-08:00

at a women's retreat. It was one of those tests that are supposed to tell you what your spiritual gifts are. Well surprising no one, my results listed being a director (telling people what to do basically) as one of my best gifts. I do have a take charge personality and God does need leaders so I was pleased with that result. What I was not pleased about however was the fact that this test showed that I was a very poor giver. Up until then, I had considered myself a very good giver, but when I really sat down and thought about it, I had to admit that I wasn't. I am a good giver when it comes to giving to people I know. Not so much when it comes to giving to those less fortunate than me. This stems from being skeptical that the person I am helping is really just looking for a way to rip me off. In my defense, you do see all sorts of fraud on television. People who lie about losing their homes to hurricanes and tornadoes. People who use their kids to get money from people and then use the money to buy stuff for themselves and not their kids. I was not going to be suckered by these people. No, sir I was not. But what I have found over the years is that this attitude has really brought me down. It all has kind of come to a head this year though because I have actually felt so led to give. Practically everything I have seen this holiday that has asked for gifts or donations, I have tried to give a little something to. Please do not be misled into thinking that I have a ton of money that I can just throw it around to this charity and that. I have just really been called upon to examine my attitude towards giving and towards those I refuse to give to. I have worked very hard this year to save up some money so that my children would have a nice Christmas. I am really disappointed that they are not getting more than they are, but really they are getting more than they need. I feel so guilty that while I am out buying V-Smiles and Cabbage Patch Kids, there are children out there that don't even have a coat or a warm blanket. So now that I have gone through this long examination of conscience, I have come to this conclusion. Giving is the right thing for me to do and I can't worry about whether or not the recipient is really needing the items that I give. I am doing what I feel led to do and what I know is right. God has really blessed my family with the things that are important and I want to share that with others. If they are fraudulent in their claims or if they are just using the kindness of others to score some free stuff, well they will have to answer to someone else about that one day. I can't really worry about what is in their heart as long as I still have to work on mine.

The reason for the season

2006-12-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

I have really been trying hard to make sure that Elvis understands the true meaning of Christmas. It is getting harder these days to wade through the commercialism and see the point behind it all. With more and more stores dropping "Merry Christmas" and going PC, I have to work harder to make sure that my kids don't get all wrapped up in the buying and list making that the media pushes on them. At our house, we have a nativity in the living room and I make sure to talk to him about Baby Jesus being born and how it was a special night. Last year when we went to Mass, he was looking for the Baby so he could tell Him "Happy Birthday". This year we have participated in several Christmas and holiday charities so that he can learn how fortunate we are and how others aren't quite so lucky. He knows now that there are people who can not afford to buy groceries that thanks to our donations to the local food pantry will have something to eat. When we worked on his shoe box for Operation Christmas Child, it broke his heart to think that there are children that won't get any toys (or any presents for that matter) for Christmas. He also saw me taking a bag of goods to work with me and asked why. I told him that they were gifts for a family that wasn't going to have much for Christmas and he was pleased that his mother was helping out. I tried to explain the Angel Tree to him, and I think he got the gist of it. I do get all into the decorating and the tree and as I mentioned before, I spend way too much money on gifts. I do want to make sure though that my son (and my daughter when she is older) understand why we give each other gifts and why we decorate and why Christmas is so important. I want them to learn that this is a time of year to be especially thankful for all the things that we have- our health, a home and most of all each other. We don't have a lot to give but we do give what we can. We give because years ago a Baby was born and that Baby was the greatest gift of all.

Christmas stresses me out

2006-12-05T14:40:00.000-08:00

Christmas really stresses me out. I know that it is supposed to be a time of family and friends and giving and all that. The problem is that I let the giving thing get to me. I love to give gifts. The problem is that I fret over what to get everyone and I always end up sweating my Christmas budget. Ever since Big Daddy and I met, I have really enjoyed Buying Christmas gifts for him. Now that we have kids, it is even worse. I love the look on people's faces when they open a gift from me and it is something that they really love. This year the ideas are coming pretty easily for most on my list. It is the cash that is on the short end. True, I had lofty aspirations of making several gifts, but I am rapidly running out of time. I guess I really shouldn't worry about it so much. Luckily my family and friends are all the sort that appreciate the thought behind the gift more than they appreciate the price tag.
As my kids get older, Christmas gets more fun. Putting up the tree and the lights are such a big deal to them that it takes the pain out of having to actually do the stuff. They get so excited about seeing the decorations and helping put them up. Last night we went to the parade and it was sooooo cold. The little one didn't care so much for the floats and all but she sure did love the candy. Today they had pics at school with Santa and I am dying to see how they turned out. I also have to go pick up some gifts for the SOP Angel Tree here at work. I enjoy participating in that because I know that a family is getting stuff that it needs. Until next time.....

It ended on a positive

2006-11-30T10:25:00.000-08:00

There it is. The final score in the 103rd Battle for the Golden Egg. I will try and provide details about the game later but all I can say for now is that this was a beautiful site. As was this

It really feels good to have that trophy back in Oxford where it belongs. We now have won 4 of the last 5 Egg Bowls. I was really impressed that even after all the tough losses and heartbreak that this team has suffered this year, they were able to stick with their coach and eachother and pull out the win. Last year's ending was horrible. The team completely quit. The coaching staff was in turmoil. The difference from then to now is tremendous. I hate to be too sheepish but I really think that we are on the verge of turning this thing around. More lengthy analysis on the football team to come.
The 2006-2007 Rebel basketball team has been a pleasant suprise to me. As of now they have started the season 6-1 with their only loss coming at the hands of national powerhouse UCONN. Coach Kennedy is a breath of fresh air for this program and his youth and agressive style of play is just what we needed. I hope that the administration recognizes this and makes the commitment to keep him here for a good long while.
Baseball is just around the corner and what I am hearing is that this year's team will be just as talented (if not more so) than the last. I really hope for Coach Bianco that this will be the year we make it to Omaha. He has done so much for this program and he really deserves all the support that we can give him.
And on a non-Rebel related note- my alma matter the mighty Kirk Academy Raiders are playing for the MSPA 2A state title. This is the first Raider team to play for the title since my baby brother's team won it in 1997. Congratulations Coach Scott Martin. You deserve it!!!!

White shirts, Yellow britches

2006-11-17T14:27:00.000-08:00

Go to hell you sons of bitches!!!!!!!!!! That's right readers, its LSU week and I am ready for what is to come. Now good sense tells me that we have no chance tomorrow night against the #9 Tigers, but let me tell you when it comes to these two teams, anything can happen. True LSU holds the series advantage 53-37-4 but this is a long heated rivalry and the outcome is not always so easily predicted. Because I have cousins that grew up in Red Stick, the Ole Miss-LSU matchup was always extra fun for us as kids. The winner had bragging rights all year long. Because my dad was a huge Ole Miss fan, I grew up listening to the games on the radio and learning to hate those Bayou Bengals. When I arrived as a student at Ole Miss I was ready for the battles that would ensue. The 1998 OT win is probably among my favorite Ole Miss football memories. We were right on the goal line where the game winning pass was caught and let me tell you, that student section went absolutely crazy. Another fun memory was in 2001, listening to my Eli Manning led Rebel's defeat the Tigers in Death Valley 35-24. The 2003 Rebs-Tigers matchup was one of the most stressful nights I have ever endured as a football fan. I wish that it had turned out differently. Sure over the last few years, the Rebs have struggled to compete with the Tigers, but it is still an enjoyable rivalry especially to many older fans of both teams. Here's to hoping that tomorrow nights game is another one of the great ones.
Today Elvis and I delivered his shoe box for Operation Christmas Child. This is such a worthwhile endeavor and is a great project for kids to help out on. Elvis had lots of fun picking out toys and other items for a boy his age. I think that this will be something that he and I do together for a long time. It really made me stop and think about how fortunate we are and how lucky I am that I can do things for my kids all the time without thinking about the cost. I really would encourage you to participate in this charity or one similar. It really helps you to focus in on what is important in life.
Oh, before I forget. My Rebs are also in basketball action this weekend. All in all it should be a fun weekend for Rebel sports. And I can't forget my adopted team, the Lafayette Commodores take on the West Point football team in high school playoff action.
PS My son's real name is not Elvis- do you think I would do that to a child?

Just some ramblings

2006-11-16T10:19:00.000-08:00

I really don't have a set topic for this post but since I am revamping this blog, I thought I better say something. There are really many topics we could cover here today, the upcoming Ole Miss vs LSU matchup, the whole OJ Simpson thing, my dislike of Nancy Pelosi, or my aggravation with Days of our Lives. I want this to be a fun blog to read but I don't want it to be a bunch of fluff either. Just a chance for you to get to know me and for me to get to talk about the things that bug me or the things that I like.
First off, let me say that I am pretty sure that LSU will mop the floor up with us on Saturday night, but I have to stop and remind myself of all the close games and the history of this rivalry. I am not saying we are going to win, but if we did it would just be another great moment in a long series of memories for the fans of these two teams. I would love to go to a game in Death Valley but due to some unfortunate incidents on Big Daddy's one and only trip there, he says he will not be taking me.
I am disgusted at the thought of people actually buying this new book by OJ Simpson. I know they will and there is no way I can stop it, but come on people!!!!! You know he did it. Why on earth do you want to help him make money for telling you exactly how??? I really am disappointed in Fox and in the book's publisher but really people will do anything to make a buck. If there is anyone in America that is truly convinced that he is innocent, please share with me why you think so. I would love to hear your case.
WARNING: IF YOU ARE OPPOSED TO A CONSERVATIVE VIEW POINT YOU MAY WANT TO SKIP THIS PARAGRAPH.
Ok- you have been warned but if you are still reading, don't say I didn't tell you. Nancy Pelosi scares the crap out of me. She is the most liberal Democrat to ever be the Speaker of the House. I don't care that it is a huge step for women and all that blah, blah, blah. Give me someone that represents the values of most Americans. This lady does not. I disagree with her on many issues but I will refrain from a lengthy discussion at this time. I will save those issues for another day. I will concede that the Republican party and this administration has done several things that I disagree with in the past couple of years. This does not mean, however, that I am ready for Mrs. San Francisco to play a major role in the outcome of the war and the way the tax code is structured. Only time will tell if my fears are unwarranted.
END OF POLITICAL RANT.
I have found myself in a unique position over the past few weeks. I have found myself almost hating this girl. She who has been one of my favorite characters in the roughly 16+ years I have been watching Days of our Lives. I am really fed up with her attitude and her actions towards her husband. No Bo hasn't been perfect but HELLO HOPE!!!! You are the one pregnant by another man. I was glad to see that this week she seems to be coming to her senses so maybe by the end of they year, she and I will be on good terms again. I guess I may need to cut her some slack though. If I had been "killed", presumed dead, kidnapped and brain-washed as many times as she has, I might act a little crazy too.
So, know you know a bit about what is on my mind these days. Tell me what you think about. Maybe next time, I can write about that too.

A new day and a new blog

2006-11-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking for a while that I needed a blog that was devoted to my knitting projects so that I could rant and rave about whatever I wanted to on this blog. Today I finally created that blog. So if you are here to see knitting, you will have to go there. If you are here to see what I am up to otherwise or to hear an occasional rant on something like sports or politics, keep on coming over to this blog. I am sure that either place you look will keep you informed and entertained. I really hope to start updating this blog more know that I am devoting it entirely to my thoughts and observations. Thanks for tuning in.

No computer = no blog

2006-11-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day in over a week that I have had a computer at my desk. Sorry for the lack of blogging. I have had lots to talk about but the computer gods have not smiled on me. To make it up to you, my loyal readers, tomorrow will bring a special treat!!!!

I love it when a stalk comes together!!

2006-10-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

I have so much to blog about that I am going to have to give it to you in installments. I mean I am really having an overload of things to talk about, and I don't know where to start. This past Saturday ranks right up there on the list of GREATEST DAYS EVER!!!! Mary Heather and I had quite the adventures in the big city to the north. The most important part of the day, of course, was the Southern Festival of Books which was held downtown. The festival looked like a neat event and maybe next year we will attend more sessions, but this year was all about Ann Shayne. After a very interesting stroll down Main Street (more on that tomorrow), it was time for the talk. Mary and I had our books handy and were ready to see what great words of knitting wisdom would be bestowed upon us. Ann is witty and fun and really just a joy to see and hear. Her talk was very down to earth and really inspired me to have more fun with my knitting. She passed around a copy of MDK for us to sign and leave her a note. She also had some hand-knitted items on display and didn't seem to mind the incessant flashing from Mary's camera. It was announced that she would be available for questions and autographing after the talk. Just when we thought it couldn't get any better, it was also announced that Ann would be going down to Sleep Out Louie's after the talk for anyone who wanted to come and hang out and knit (and maybe have an adult beverage or two)!!!! Of course, wild horses couldn't have kept us away. WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULDN'T WANT TO HANG OUT WITH ANN SHAYNE?!?!?! Instead of the polite few minutes we thought we would have while having our book signed we got about 3 hours of hanging out, knitting and chatting about life with Ann and several other ladies that were in attendance. It was an afternoon of good food, good drink, and good knitting. Ann is just as cute and sweet as we thought she would be and has a great sense of humor. All in all it was a fun afternoon and now I can't wait to meet Kay!!

Back in the saddle again

2006-10-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

Boy that is a dorky title for a post. Well, my moods have shifted again and I am back into full force knitting. I am almost done with the aforementioned housewarming gift. I love to make dishcloths (duh) and I am busily planning a plethora of holiday dishtowels to be made for myself and those I love. Also, after being inspired by this lovely item, I have begun one of my own. I am making mine with different colors as it is for a toddler and not a baby. I am also doing something incredibly passe and knitting mine out of the (gasp) Red Heart. Really people, get over it. It is for a kid. I want it to be used and not put up in a closet somewhere waiting on the day when the recipient is old enough to treat it kindly. I am excited about this project but I am sure that I will tire of garter rows after about block 5. Hopefully Monday will bring some finished items with a photo shoot.

On the horizon- a trip and a famous knitter!!

2006-10-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

In my attempt to get back in the good graces of my loyal readers, I figured I better stop by and write a few lines today. I am knitting again and that is good as Big Daddy commented the other night that I am much happier when I knit. I have started a set of dishtowels that are already a week late for a housewarming gift. I also am diligently working on a baby bib from Mason Dixon Knitting as Mary and I will be traveling to Memphis (the city that I love) to meet ANN SHAYNE!!!!!! We are so excited about this event. More details to come.

I am a bad bad blogger

2006-10-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

I AM A BAD BAD BLOGGER. At least that is what my friends tell me. Well, I am happy to report that after a loong absence, I am back. Back to knitting and back to blogging. I am one of those people that has their whole life turned upside down when college football season starts. I have to find a way to manage my time more effectively. Also, Big Daddy has started a part time job in addition to his full time work and I am home alone with the kids more than ever. If you have never tried to knit and entertain a 4 year old and a fifteen month old, then I have a few kids you can borrow!!!! So for all of you who have been begging, here is a new blog entry. Tomorrow I may even have some knitting news!! Stay tuned.

Something different

2006-08-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

I have no new knitting to show off today so I thought I would do something different. I have seen this list on other peoples blogs, so I decided to join in the fun. The bold items are the ones I have done. I added a comment or two to let you in on more of the story. Hope this lets you all get to know me a bit better!!
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain-Sugarloaf Mountain in Heber Springs, AR
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said 'I love you' and meant it
09. Hugged a tree- I really mostly ran into it but hugging was the end result
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game- i am counting the NASCAR race I attended
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables- I have I promise
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby's diaper- more than I care to remember
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne- duh
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking- many, many times
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment- the most prominent being my wedding day and when each of my children were born
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign- from Hardee’s advertising Home ‘Taters
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer then you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger's table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your cds
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Posed nude in front of strangers
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken- I married him so he couldn’t break it
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest-when I was a kid
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an "expert"
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage- depends on what you are talking about- do childhood dance recitals count?
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Had a one-night stand
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one of your parents- unfortunately
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror.
96. Raised children-I am in the process
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Created and named your own constellation of stars
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn't stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an illness that you shouldn't have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane- for a few minutes but I had the controls
109. Petted a stingray
110. Broken someone's heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol- all of the above
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours-after exams
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Petted a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one "important" author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146: Dyed your hair
147: Been a DJ
148: Shaved your head
149: Caused a car accident- according to the accident report anyway
150: Saved someone's life- not all by myself but I did help rescucitate a woman that was in a full code

I've been spammed!!

2006-08-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

I have been hit with some unwanted spam in my comments. In order to try and eliminate this problem, I have enacted some commenting measures. I hate to do this as I love getting the comments, but enough is enough, people. Please continue to read and comment. DOWN WITH THE SPAMMERS. THEY MUST BE STOPPED.

Save my sanity!!

2006-08-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Some of you probably think I have run away and let me tell you, it has been close. I have been spending much time trying to hold on to my sanity. Not even knitting has been able to help!!! The breakdown was held off last night by the presence of football on my tv. Now I know that a pre-season NFL game is not real football, but I am desperate people! My beloved Rebels still have 27 days until kickoff. My season tickets are due to arrive in the mail anyday. I am trying to hang on. Now, I am not going to tell you that I think we will turn the corner this year and have a breakout season. Truthfully, 5 or 6 wins will make me ecstatic. A trip to even the crappiest bowl game the SEC can offer will be like a dream come true. I just enjoy my football. For me the day is about hanging out with my friends, drinking some adult beverages, and cheering on my team. I know that sounds cheesey. but it is what I love. Something about the smell of bourbon early on a fall morning and watching small kids throw the football around while we eat tenderloin and make predictions about the game or trash our rivals just makes my life so much more enjoyable. I will likely follow this fall routine until the day I die. I also enjoy a good NFL battle on Sunday, especially if some former Rebels are on the field. What could be better than watching a bunch of men in tight pants run around tackling eachother. It gives my violent streak a place to thrive. And giving the violent side of me a place to breathe is a very important part in preserving my sanity (and my marriage). I am not one of those girls who goes to see and be seen either. I do understand football and can inteligently represent myself in discussions on the topic. My husband sometimes even defers to me for insider knowledge. It is cool. He says anything is cool that will keep me from going postal on him.
On the knitting front (since I have totally been rambling) the chenille has been banished to the bottom of the knitting stash. I couldn't take it anymore. What I did was take my first ever, half-finished baby blanket I was making for my daughter and ripped it. It has re-emerged on my needles as a new pattern and I will keep you updated thusly. I also have plans for more dishcloths and the like as I prepare for the Christmas season. Thanks for being patient today while my sanity took a trip. It gets nutty sometimes down here in this basement.

Another one bites the dust

2006-08-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have been able to cross another item off my list. Only two weeks later (ha ha) these heart patterned dishcloths are done. Here is the newest addition to the dishcloth family.

Lovely, isn't she?? And here is a pic of the two together.

If you look at this photo closely, you can see the toe of the shoe of my photographer. She does a lovely job and I am pround to point out her toe. These dishcloths will be spirited away to my grandmother. My mom saw one and was a bit covetous I think, so she may also be the recipient of some heart pattern dishcloths in the near future. I do have a bit of sad news to report, dear reader. I ripped out the chenille. Three rows into it, I hated it so bad that I had to rip it. I do have plans to start it over as that is the next pressing item on my list. Today is the first day of the August dishcloth for the KAL so I have to get cracking on that tonight lest I get behind. I am excited about my progress so far and I hope you are too! Until next time, I will be looking at knitting patterns in the basement.

So I got tagged

2006-07-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by Stacie so here are six (supposedly) interesting things about me that you may not have known.
1) I am the oldest of 4 children- I have two little brothers and one little sister
2) I am 1/2 Italian- thanks Dad
3) For 1 1/2 years I tested other people's pee for the presense of illegal drugs. My husband and I also collected our own drug-free pee for cash.
4) I am an Associate R&D Chemist for a national research center- chemist in title only as I have a biology degree
5) I have read Gone With the Wind 4 times and seen the movie too many times to count- I was able to drag my husband (we weren't married at the time) to the Margaret Mitchell House in Atlanta
6) I was in a sorority in college even though I in no way resemble any of the stereotypes that may have just popped into your head.

These facts may or may not be interesting to you but now you know six things about me. Seven if you count the fact that you already know that I knit. Eight really if you count the fact that you know I am crazy.

I finally cast on for the chenille blanket last night and managed to knit about 2 rows before I became aggitated and had to quit. Big Daddy will be owing me for a while for this blanket. I am not wild about the yarn and I am not wild about 47" of stockinette stich!! I am sure that I can find something that I want him to do in return for the time I will spend slaving over it. We may be traveling south this weekend for his company's family day Saturday and hopefully we will get to spend the night with mamma on our way home. A three hour ride to Jackson will provide for some good knitting though so that is a plus!! Sorry that I have no pictures today but maybe Monday I can provide some finished items for you to view. Until next time, I will be hating chenille in the basement.

I am on a roll, people!!

2006-07-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Boys and girls, here is the dishcloth in all her finished glory along with the towel that I made a while back to match it.

I think that they turned out pretty good, don't you? I am just glad that are done and I can cross them off my list. I am going to step away from dishcloths somewhat now and focus on 2 blankets that I already have the yarn for.

I also wanted to throw some props out for our LYS, Hanging by a Thread. While on a research venture yesterday, we were lucky enough to pick up a copy of the very first newsletter published by them. In said newsletter was lots of information about classes and clinics that will be offered during the month of August. I am looking forward to attending some of these as it will be a chance to enhance my skills and meet other knitters. Speaking of meeting other knitters, the store will also be hosting a "Sip 'n Stitch" every Tuesday night at 7 pm starting on August 15. This sounds like great fun and I am looking forward to hanging out and having child-free time to knit. As you can see, I still have much knitting planned and am ready to learn something new. Until next time, see you in the basement.

Another FO (finally)

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

I have finally finished the first of two scarves that I am making for the Think Pink Challenge. It took longer than it should, but knitting with a four year old and a one year old is certainly shaping up to be a challenge of it own. This is officially my first knitted scarf, people. This is a milestone for me!! Before I mail the scarf, I wanted to see how it would look on. So I tried it on my boss, John. He was not really happy to be wearing a pink scarf but since it is for a good cause, he was willing to humor me some. Then we had to go upstairs (yes, we left the basement) and attend to a chore on the second floor. While we were up there, we visited my sister.
She is going to be the lucky recipient of one dishtowel (you know the one I mean). I thought she looked lovely modeling the scarf. Then Mary and I decided to see who else would be willing to model this lovely pink scarf in 100 degree heat in Mississippi in July.
Kathy did

And my old boss Troy did (enjoyed his modeling gig a little too much maybe)

And finally the lovely Jean Pinion, School of Pharmacy social chair, wore the scarf.
So there you have it. If you are nice enough (or crazy enough), you can get people to model scarves for you. Even if it is pink. Even if it is 100 degrees. Even if it is July. Even if you work in a basement.

Presenting, in all her glory......

2006-07-21T13:43:00.000-07:00

This is the dishcloth that has been giving me fits. I know that I have let this all go to my head, creating a bigger problem than it really is. I do feel, however, that when you have to rip out a particular project two different times, you can call it what you want. The dishcloth and I had a little talk last night and in exchange for good behavior, I promised a photo shoot. Here is a closeup of the weave.
Sorry the picture is a bit fuzzy but basement lighting is never very good. I do hope to be finished with this dishcloth by Monday. Then maybe I will have some lovely photos of the finished product along with my almost complete scarf for Think Pink. I have high hopes of finishing it over the weekend as well. Have a good weekend everyone. I will be enjoying my two days out of the basement.

Boy, I am weak

2006-07-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

I did it. I went to the yarn store. It had been two weeks since we had been. I had my project list under control. I went. I saw new yarns. I now have new projects on my list. Why am I so weak?? Why do I lust after yarn in my school colors?? Why am I lusting after Christmas yarn in July?? Yarn is such an addiction. I wonder if anyone has ever done a study on that? I wonder if there is any funding out there to do a study on the theraputic powers of yarn and knitting? I am a scientist. Maybe I should look into that. Anyway, our LYS has lots of really cool yarn and have ordered lots more to be coming soon. I am excited. I also was directed to this knitting pattern today that will be my reward when I cross some items off my list. It does deal with one of my other favorite topics!!!!! I am also watching some items that I covet on ebay. Wish me luck!! It is time to go home so until next time, see you in the basement.

I will...

2006-07-19T14:47:00.000-07:00

1) finish the Think Pink scarf
2) finish the dishcloth from hell
3) cast on my grandmother's other dishcloth
4) cast on Big Daddy's chenille blanket
5) make my dishcloths for this months KAL
6) buy some yarn and make some baby gifts

Please, your support is needed. Encouragement and kind words would be helpful!!

Sinus medicine is making this basement look fuzzy. I must go home.

It is finished!!!!

2006-07-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

This is the completed dishcloth I showed you yesterday. Hopefully, I will get to start on its companion cloth tonight. Time is short today but I wanted to get this picture out to the masses. More tomorrow as I am leaving this basement.

Why is it always Monday?

2006-07-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Monday seems to come around much faster than every seventh day. Ugh!! I hate Mondays. I have been dragging about today but a special thanks goes out to Mary Heather for the use of her chaise during lunch. There is a conspiracy in my house to keep me from doing all the knitting that I have planned. I am convinced that the dirty clothes, dirty dishes and the rest of the housework get together and say "When she sits down with those knitting needles, let's look as messy as we can!" The weekend was full of more than just housework as there was socializing, swimming, and the consumption of a birthday cake. Fun with Dick and Jane was finally viewed but all attempts to watch any movie other than one rated G were thwarted. Last night I braved it and again drove to our crime-ridden neighbor to the north. Jennifer is back from a once in a lifetime adventure in Las Vegas. Maybe I can get my hands on some of her pictures to share with you. Despite all the busy activities I was able to squeeze in some of the knitting that was on my wish list. I was able to cast on this lovely dishcloth that I believe will be a gift for one lucky person!!
The pattern is one that I found from the lovely people at the Monthy Dishcloth KAL. This is a fun KAL that I just joined. I think that dishcloths are handy to have around because they are relatively cheap and make great gifts. When this one is done, I have another heart pattern that I want to try with some lovely rose-colored yarn that I also purchased on last weeks trip to Hancock Fabrics. This dishcloth hasn't been a pesk like that other one has so I thought it deserved a picture of its fine progress. Plus, dear reader, I have been promising pictures, so here you are. It is almost time to go home and I must gear up for the 100 degree heat waiting on me outside!! One good thing about being stuck in a basement, at least we stay cool in the summer!! Until next time...

Catching my breath

2006-07-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

I actually have more than a few minutes to post today. I feel like these quick entries I have been posting lately have not really fulfilled my need to blog. This has been a pretty typical week- BUSY!! Things are plodding along down here at work. Today is payday (thank goodness) but then really all that does is force me to subtract out the old checkbook and redistribute the money. That is always a depressing thing to do because I think of all the money that I could be spending on yarn. Car payment. Yarn. Car payment. Yarn. Such decisions to make. I am sure that this weekend will include a trip to the lovely Walmart. I am looking forward to spending most of my time just hanging out with the family and trying to get some knitting done. Last weekend was supposed to be like that but with all the shacking up at BMH and all, some things I wanted to accomplish got postponed. Big Daddy and I have several movies that we have been trying to watch for over a week now. Either the kids stay up too late or we go to bed too early or kids end up in the bed with us. All I know is that Fun with Dick and Jane has been on my tv for about 1 1/2 weeks now and I have seen not a minute. Considering I have waited this long to see it already, it may be a classic by the time we actually view it. Hopefully a dip in the pool will be on the agenda. My babies love the water (and rightly so as I do too!). I enjoy just relaxing with them and watching them play. Sunday will be spend either watching the race on tv or swimming and listening on the radio. Louden is not really one of my favorite tracks but with the season winding closer to The Chase, every race is important. I am trying hard not to think about how far away football season still is. September 3rd cannot get here soon enough!!!!! My knitting goals for the weekend are:
1. finish my first scarf for the Think Pink Challenge
2. work on that dreaded dishcloth
3. cast on one of the dishcloths for my grandmother
4. clean up and sort though my knitting bag and patterns
Surely by Monday, I will have some completed items to share with you all. Until next time, fair reader. I have got to get out of this basement!!

Made it back safe!!

2006-07-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

I made it back safe from the city to our north. Of course, when you are only there long enough to drop off at the airport, the carjackers really don't have time to get you. Now Jennifer is sunning it up in Vegas, and I am still here in this basement. Fair reader, I did hit up the Hancock Fabric yesterday and purchased some fine cotton yarn to make my grandmamma some dishcloths for her birthday. I will update you on their progress. I also have a new obsession. I know, I know, but I have just got (GOT) to have Mason-Dixon Knitting. I am not sure that I can go on another day until I buy it. Maybe I can sneak some cash from the grocery money and purchase it. Don't tell!!! Bad news though to report today-my crochet class has been canceled and will be re-offered in the fall. I am disappointed but I know that with all the knitting I have planned, I will stay busy. Hopefully, by Monday I will have pictures of some dishtowels and a scarf for your viewing pleasure. Until then, hold on to your hats. I will be working down here in this basement.

Away to Memphis

2006-07-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

I am about to leave to take Jennifer to the Memphis International Airport so that she can spend the weekend in Las Vegas. Fun you say?? Yes especially when it is a free trip to hang out with Garth Brooks, Tricia Yearwood, and some random baseball and hockey players. Now the problen is this. Jennifer likes none of the above. No country music or baseball or hockey for her. Unfair, I know but I am making her promise to bring me some autographs. The only good thing about this is I am making her drive to Memphis so I can work on my scarf. I left the dishcloth home to rest. It needs to sit and think about why it is giving me so much trouble. I guess you could say it is grounded for the day. Tomorrow, it will be back to the grind but hopefully I won't have any scary stories from my adventure to share. Until tomorrow, think of me, fair reader, I am escaping from the basement.

Oops!! What was I thinking?!?

2006-07-11T14:50:00.000-07:00

Some days are just crappy. I don't know why that is but they just are. This has been one of those days. Ah, if I can just get home and knit and soothe my soul. Enough about all that though. You know, fair reader, I have spoken with you about my need for projects and my desire to control them. Just when we all thought I had it under control.... My sister and I are signed up to take a crochet class. Yes, my love of yarn has expanded to the hook. I have been known to chain and single crochet in the past, but I am hoping to expand these talents. So another project list to compile as I take on this new venture. Wish me luck, fair reader, as class starts Thursday. Tomorrow I will be traveling north to that crime-ridden city of Memphis to take our lovely Jennifer to the airport where she will board a plane to Vegas. More on that story tomorrow as it is 5:00 and my children await. Until next time, I'll be plotting my next hobby in the basement.

Falling behind

2006-07-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

Another week has begun and I am already behind on my many chores and projects. I am always behind on my housework so that is nothing new. I am seeing that trend continue however with my knitting projects. I am revising my list for Project Finish Knit so check that blog for the update. I am still working on the DFH and I have begun one of my prink pretties for the Think Pink Challenge. I still have the Monthly Dishcloth KAL to do. I decided to push back the cast on of the chenille because I thought what was the use of casting on another project when I really am not making good progress on anything?? Sorry to those of you who are looking forward to the adventures with chenille. I did knit in public this weekend (sort of) if you can count Nanny's room at the hospital. One of the custodians did compliment my work though!! I also snuck in a bit in the waiting room at the pediatrician this morning. Yes, the traveling dishcloth spent the night with me at the Baptist Motel. It is currently riding around in my truck waiting on its next outing. I hope to have it finished by the week's end. I slept a ton this weekend in the form of naps which really didn't help accomplish any of my goals. This weekend did have a few highpoints though as I got to eat the lunch buffet at the New Hunan and my man had a top five finish at Chicagoland Speedway. He retained his 3rd place standing in the points and is now 257 points behind the leader (whose name I will not type as I don't want to give him any free advertising on this space). I have to get home a peel some shrimp for supper. Until nextime, fair reader, I will see you in the basement.

Friday, Friday

2006-07-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

The end of another week!! Boy, this one has been weird. Having the day off on Tuesday really sent me for a loop. It has also been a hard week as I have received bad news in several forms. The worst for me being that my Nanny suffered a very slight heart attack Wednesday night and will be residing at our lovely Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi until further notice. As she is my only Nanny, I am really worried but she is a tough girl and I am sure she will recover just fine. Next week I hope to start on her dishcloths for her 87th birthday that is coming up on the fifteenth. You will be happy to know, dear reader, that the dreaded dishcloth is back on the needles. Four rows knitted and if I have to do it four rows a day, then that is what I will do. I have purchased some fine pink yarn for the Think Pink challenge. I hope to be able to make 2 scarves with this yarn and maybe if time allows, purchase and make 2 more. This week cancer has taken the life of someone I know and entered into the life of another. Cancer is bad. Knitting is good. Find yourself a charity and knit, dear reader. It will do some good for you as well as the recipient. Coming soon to this blog (hopefully) knitting in public and the traveling dishcloth!!!!!!! Until next time, come on down and see us in the basement.

You know I can't resist

2006-07-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

I mean I really do want to reduce my number of projects until I can get some things finished, I really do. Then I see something that touches my heart and I just can't help myself. So since I was able to remove Misty's dishcloths from my list, I have added this project for charity. It is just a scarf or two and since I am already involved in a breast cancer fundraiser, what is one more little thing to do to help?? So I will be adjusting my list for Project Finish Knit (please see their button in the side bar). I implore you, fair reader, to think about what you can do for breast cancer awareness or for any type of cancer for that matter. It is important and there are so many little things you can do to help. On a lighter note, I am going to cast on that damn dishcloth tonight and whip its little butt into shape. Then I am going to Wal-mart (ah, glorious Wal-mart) to get some pink yarn for my scarves. I would like to make several in honor of the women in my life but if I can't get the dishcloth done, then I may just throw all my knitting supplies away. Just kidding, dear reader. My sister shall have cloths for her dishes and I shall make pink scarves. Even if I have to knit them here in this basement. Just don't tell my boss......

The Dishcloth from Hell

2006-07-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, I said from Hell. I have been working on a simple dishcloth for my sister to accompany the aforementioned towel. I have ripped this item out twice now and will start it again tonight. I am determined to finish and won't let it get me down. Fair reader, I promise you that I will never let a thing like a dishcloth get me down. Our Princess is officially a year old now. I was exhausted after all the parties and family time. She is so cute though and could not be denied all the festivities. We had a nice 4th of July at Mother's yesterday. I finally got my birthday presents as Mother couldn't decide whether to give me cookbooks or a purse. Being the culinary expert that I am (ha ha), I chose the cookbooks. Now I can torture Big Daddy with more experiments. I am on a moratorium from the grocery store though until we eat up some of the food that has been collecting in our cabinets and freezer. The children will not starve, but the meals may not exactly be foods that join together nicely. Because Misty decided she wanted a Paula Deen cookbook, I got her that for her be-lated birthday and can delete one item from my list on Project Finish Knit. I have set myself a goal of at least casting on the chenille by the end of the week so I can force myself to make some real progress. Until next time, I will see you in the basement.

Finally Friday!!

2006-06-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday and it is also PAYDAY. I really should say income redistribution day. The money comes in, the money goes out. I am busily preparing for the birthday marathon this weekend. I can't believe that my baby is going to be a year old. It is very sad for this girl to think that her babies are growing up. I stayed home with the kiddies yesterday and while a day off would seem like a great time to get some knitting done......needless to say I didn't have much luck. So I still lack two dishcloths before I can cross an item off my list. Maybe between birthday parties I can get some things cast on and that will make me start them. I just don't have a lot to day, fair reader, so until next time.....you know where I'll be.

I Finished!!!!! (Sort Of)

2006-06-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

Today is my sister's birthday and since I promised her dishcloths for her new apartment and am a month late on that, I figured I better hand over something today. I just basically cast on until the desired width and knit two skeins of yarn in garter stich to make her a towel. Boring I know, but I want her to use it and I really am still a novice knitter, you know. Well, fair reader, it was the first project that I have ever started that I actually finished (with a little help from my friend). I am going to cast on the first dishcloth tonight. I plan on making 2 dishcloths and when they are complete, I am going to take pictures of the whole set and post them here for your enjoyment. The ladies of the basement are busy making our lists for Project Finish Knit. You can also check their site for updates on my project list. Tomorrow, fair reader, you will have to do without my wit and wisdom as I have to stay home with the kiddies, but rest assured I will be back on Friday with tales of knitting with children.
Kudos to Jenn for her progress in fundraising. And HAPPY 22, Sister!!!!!
Until next time, I will be making lists of unfinished projects in the basement.

A Busy Week

2006-06-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

To only be Tuesday, I am swamped with things to do already. Our little Princess turns one on Sunday and there is lots to do to get ready. We are having a party for Big Daddy's family on Saturday at Aunt Misty's house and then we will be entertaining my clan on Sunday at my grandmother's so that we can eat cake and enjoy the swimming pool. I have exciting news, fair reader, as I have been accepted into the membership of Project Finish Knit. Hopefully, these fine women will help me to finish all those dishcloths I am planning. I am constantly finding new projects that I want to make for myself but I have to stick with the plan. I found some quite festive placemats today that I think will make a fine addition to my tailgating table. I am going to use red and blue of course and they will look fine sitting under the new platters and bowls that I am currently coveting for the fall. Sorry to say fair reader that it will be quite some time before I can boast of finishing these fine additions to my grove gear as I have also placed a moratorium on the purchase of new yarns as to help with my goal of finishing the unknit. Dishcloths must be my life, at least until the cotton yarn runs out. Until next time, I will be planning parties in the basement.

A New Week

2006-06-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today starts a new week and new projects on the horizon. Bible school commencement was last night and while it was a rewarding experience, I am glad to be able to go straight home from work this week. My weekend was full of birthday parties, shopping at Wal-mart, and spending time with my kids. Saturday, I walked 7 miles (SEVEN) with Jennifer for our 3-Day training. It was a long hot day, but maybe after a few more like it, I will begin to see some weight loss. Thanks to the support of my dedicated readers, I am going to try and narrow down my project list and get busy on finishing my dishcloths and such so that I may start to prepare for making Christmas gifts. This will be a long, grueling task but I am sure that my chosen gifts will bring joy to all that receive them. Scarves, blankets, and dishcloths are for sure on the list. Who will receive what?? Only time will tell. For now, I am collecting patterns and making plans to purchase yarn. I am making more time each and every day to dedicate to knitting and will let you know, fair reader, how my projects are progressing. Maybe if I can borrow a camera I will be able to provide you with pictures as well. Until next time, I will see you in the basement.

My New Hobby (Sort of)

2006-06-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

I like to always have a project going. It is an annoying habit to those in my life as I am always starting something but never seem to finish. This year I decided that I would take up knitting. Well, I took a few classes and got down the basics, then it was time to pick my first knitting project. First, I wanted to make a baby blanket for my little Princess. It is still sitting somewhere half finished. Then I decided that I was going to make a chenile blanket for Big Daddy. I bought the yarn and the needles required, but they too are sitting in a bag somewhere. Next, I discovered dishcloths. I went to Wal-mart and happily purchased several skeins of fine cotton yarn. I have half of a dishtowel complete and still no cloths. Now I have another problem. I am addicted to the local yarn shop, Hanging by a Thread. I have not purchased anything there yet, but it is harder day by day. I have lusted in my heart for a felted lunch bag pattern. I have plans to make my children felted trick-or-treat bags. Will I just be a yarn ho, or will I ever actually complete a project and truly be able to call myself a knitter? I beg of you, oh faithful readers, to please, please stick with me as I desperately try to complete a knitting project and as I battle the yarn store addiction. I will try and post some pictures of the items that I complete. I am not buying anything until I finish using what I have. I turn to you dear friends for strength in my time of need. Until next time, I'll be knitting in the basement (hopefully).........

The Artic Edge: Vacation Bible School 2006

2006-06-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

I had alot I wanted to talk about today, but instead I am stuck here in my basement dealing with crazy people and their unrealistic expectations for my work day. That is really a pain, but because I am an exceptional woman, I will rise above. We will have a lesson on expectations and how to deal with them another day. Today I want to talk about the wonderful time I am having teaching Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church in Abbeville. Kim (who is married to my cousin Cary) and I are teaching the 3 year old class. It is a challenge to get my kids picked up and get all the way to Abbeville by 5:45, but the week has been so rewarding. The children are so sweet and they are very eager to sing and make their crafts. For the most part, they are attentive to the Bible story and are really good at remembering what we have talked about in previous nights. They are so cute as they take turn saying their prayers before it is time to go home. I also get to see my son a good bit as our age groups are combined for various activities. He goes home every night singing some of the songs, and he can't wait to get home and tell Daddy all about what happened at "Bible Church". It is tough to not get home until 9:00 every night (and I miss spending time with my girl) but I enjoy knowing that these children are having a good time and learning about our Lord. It is truly an experience I will cherish for years to come. Until next time, I will see you in the basement.......

First day to post!!

2006-06-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

I have been encouraged by my lovely co-worker, Mary Heather, to start a blog. I really have no set topic so this will just be a glimpse of my life working in a basement. Working underground is a unique experince. You begin to not miss things like windows and quickly learn to get used to the cold 365 days a year. People rarely come down to visit unless they need something. It is very quiet and peaceful unless you crave being around others like I do and then it can be very lonely. I do get to travel about the building from time to time and I will tell you about the people I meet as time goes by. So don't expect any earthshattering revelations to be told in this blog. Just sit back and enjoy and maybe, jsut maybe, you will learn a thing or two.