tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75690220614930841682024-03-05T07:20:47.835-08:00SarityA blog of our life.Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-10913201367449184952013-03-12T07:40:00.000-07:002013-03-12T07:40:13.796-07:00{8/52} - Photo<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Just a quick photo of me doing what I do on my days off. Making oatmeal in my favorite pan (named The Workhorse)with my porridge spoon. It is such a calming activity and something I savor. A nice little thing to do for myself to feed my soul and belly. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">A very impromptu picture. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-14794179285935679542013-03-01T09:59:00.002-08:002013-03-01T10:09:28.463-08:00{7/52} - Food<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Another late start weekend. A break from the usual though. Instead of the wonderful brown sugar cinnamon cream cheese popovers, I made scones. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Another Smitten Kitchen recipe. I added dried cranberries. Sonny described them this way:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Me: "what do you think?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Him: "Not good."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Me: "What don't you like?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Him: "It's like bite...cardboard,cardboard,cardboard....cranberry."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The texture was good, but they could have used more flavor. Like some cinnamon and a friend suggested soaking the cranberries in OJ before adding them. I'm going to do that next time I make them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-41838858761026848502013-03-01T09:58:00.001-08:002013-03-01T09:58:57.258-08:00{7/52} - photo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This week a quick, quiet moment to be silly in the middle of a whole bunch of shit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We lost a dear family friend and it still doesn't seem quite real yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I took Sonny to school last Friday as Lou was speeding towards us on the train. In the quiet of the morning, I couldn't resist taking advantage of the fresh snow to build a snowman. Even if it was just me, 37 years old, hunched over a baby lump of snow coaxing it to grow with my slow rolls down the sidewalk, I knew it was what my soul needed. I love fashioning their smiles and finding a hat for their heads. I like thinking of people driving down the road giggling at me building him. I needed the quiet of the fresh snow to take a step back from being sad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have lost many people in my family and friends that I'd call family. I've learned what gives me comfort and I guess you might call it my golden rule for life. <b>Make sure the people that are important to your heart know in their hearts how you feel.</b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My mom was also my first example of learning to laugh through the bad times. I was 24 the first time I'd really experienced a death that shook me to my core. My niece that I'd basically raised, died suddenly. My Mom and I were in shock. But I'll always remember sitting around a long table at the funeral home; my Mom, me, my uncle, and my sister, attending to all of the details. It was sobering to realize all of the things we had to decide at a time when we just wanted to quit everything. We wrote the obituary, picked out caskets, set times for visitation, chose clothes etc. So many choices. Music, photographs, programs, pall bearers. At one point the man helping us through this process left the room and my Mom leaned across the table to say that the pen she was using was amazing. She said, "You see how he makes sure he gets it back from me after every signature? I want that pen." He came back and the planning process continued. As we were walking to the car, my Mom pulled that pen from her purse. All of us dissolved into laughter. It felt good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I shared a moment like that with C Friday when she whispered, "You know she'd be saying, 'Seriously? The median age is 62? That figures.'" It is exactly what she would have been saying. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Another thing I believe in is doing something for myself that honors those I've lost. I signed up for the bone marrow registry after my niece died. Still ready to get a call and help a family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">For Shanti, I'm going to write a 3 Minute Fiction submission for NPR. Writing was such a big part of our relationship, and we'd always talked about creating a final submission. I even stumbled across some we'd started at work one day. So in her memory, I will carefully choose 600 words before the deadline and send it out into the world. I think that would be a great way to honor our friendship. It was one that will be impossible to forget. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-88578788937463064782013-03-01T08:53:00.001-08:002013-03-01T08:53:10.252-08:00{6/52} - raincheck<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">No post for this week. I'll make it up when I'm feeling especially cute later this year ;)</span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-47491397861014841742013-02-12T12:03:00.001-08:002013-02-12T12:03:44.420-08:00{5/52} <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Not the picture I wanted for this week. But my feet are peeking out and it's a glimpse of what it looks like as soon as I finally sit down on the couch for the night. My Moe-Moe, who likes me just fine when Lou is gone, and my Mary Bones. I was trying to knit, but that didn't happen. I like Sara in the background too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I don't think we did a new recipe this week. We were going to, but then went back to our tried and true <a href="http://spoonful.com/recipes/spiral-apple-tart" target="_blank">apple tart</a>. I've been making this for about 15 years and it is always delicious for dessert or breakfast the next morning. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-33118615949687190652013-02-12T11:44:00.001-08:002013-02-12T11:46:14.779-08:00{4/52}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">A quick overnight getaway was just what we needed. We arrived at Starved Rock after the rain so we didn't actually get to hike due to warnings saying "seek shelter immediately, stay away from trees". We did get to poke around lots of thrift stores resulting in me finding another $5 Yashica Electro 35 gsn. I'm going to make sure it shoots and then sell it to someone that admires mine. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We found a cute rootbeer stand to enjoy an afternoon snack of apple pie ala mode and a pint. Of course I had my knitting and listening to other peoples' conversations was a wonderful way to spend a rainy afternoon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We had a delectable dinner at our favorite place in Ottawa, <a href="http://www.tracysrowhouse.com/" target="_blank">Tracy's Row House</a>. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Photo by C</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The next day we fell in love with a mansion. Both of us were hypnotized by the combination of grandeur, detail, and mystery. We will be back there, probably soon. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Our new recipe was simple, but has been repeated several times already. Another Smitten Kitchen recipe, I swear she does no wrong. Everything is always delicious and more perfect than I could imagine. This time it was her <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2013/01/ethereally-smooth-hummus/" target="_blank">hummus</a> recipe. We are mastering our blending skills and C says peeling the chickpeas is a bonding experience for her and the Shorty. We pack this in our lunches, snack on it while making dinner, or just eat it for dinner in our post-work Saturday night daze. I can't wait to begin doing different variations. And to try it with dried chickpeas. We've already sourced the most affordable tahini we could find. I need to get better about taking pictures of the food we make. </span><br />
<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-71948788329507611282013-01-24T09:37:00.000-08:002013-01-24T09:40:00.455-08:00{3/52} - Photo<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Lou went back to Chicago today. It will be strange getting used to her being gone again. On the plus side, I get to send more mail! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaWuBCmbkJ5B8v64JpkeTuahyamKOWYPzLWYR7MaR7JEEqwjTlHdLIgpeLc5_wbAbXQSvtyZuUDv-fP53VlN5uOfoCDwMV6uETZDwpppKr9lOB5nWAW4T3QWIFw2Ewuwt9i3h7_NH2cI/s1600/IMG_20130122_095117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaWuBCmbkJ5B8v64JpkeTuahyamKOWYPzLWYR7MaR7JEEqwjTlHdLIgpeLc5_wbAbXQSvtyZuUDv-fP53VlN5uOfoCDwMV6uETZDwpppKr9lOB5nWAW4T3QWIFw2Ewuwt9i3h7_NH2cI/s320/IMG_20130122_095117.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It made me feel better to send her back wearing the scarf I made her. Seven feet of wool to keep her warm in the cold. Weeks I spent knitting it with that special feeling in my heart that makes me feel like my soul is singing. On the train, in the car, at work, during Matthew's unexpected surgery - I took it with me everywhere. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And today, I bought the yarn to make her a hat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I never would have known I was a knitter if C hadn't commented that she'd always wanted a homemade scarf. The day I decided to knit one was so random, I had no idea the people I would meet or the things I would create. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It calms me. It passes the time when I am idle. It clothes the people I care about. In some small way I feel that I am protecting my family by knitting for them. I can't really explain it and it may not be reasonable, but there is power in what I make. Because it is made with love. My love. Every. Single. Stitch. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am a knitter.</span></td></tr>
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Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-67100416054254670482013-01-22T11:09:00.000-08:002013-01-22T11:09:22.814-08:00{2/52} - Food<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We had Lou's friends over for a wonderful dinner. Coq au vin using <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/weeknight-coq-au-vin-10000001842323/" target="_blank">this</a> fast, and probably not very authentic, recipe. I've made it before and it looks like an impressive meal. At least I feel fancy serving it. We kept the meal simple with bread, green beans, and potatoes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">For dessert during Samsara I served a <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Cranberry-Spice-Cake-368253" target="_blank">cranberry cake</a>. That was the new recipe of the week. It was ok, easy to make but not the taste sensation I was hoping it would be. I served it with Smitten Kitchen's cranberry sauce on top and a scoop of ice cream. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Dinner with the kids and their friends (usually Lou's) is always a good time. We laugh and talk about disgusting stuff. We tease and joke and have seconds and get rowdy. It's what I think life is all about. Dinner and sharing it with the ones you care about. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">C told me I should let NPR know about our dinners, they had a "call for submission" about what dinner is like at your house. But I am at a loss for how to explain the experience. I invest so much time in preparing a feast for those I invite, and it is such a brief part of our day, but in so many ways it is the most important time we spend together. I don't think we really even realize what a big part of our lives it is until we get too busy (which occasionally happens). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This meal was the last big one before Lou went back to Chicago. I'm glad her closest friends could join us. It was their first time watching Samsara and it was funny listening to them. It is an evening I won't forget spending with Lou in the city. We had no idea how it would open our brains to new things to think about. It showed us the world. I'm glad I own it and can't wait to share it with others at a grown up dinner soon! </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-76409309151875738442013-01-15T08:54:00.001-08:002013-01-15T08:54:16.964-08:00{2/52} - Photo<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This week I got my hair cut. Cut. Not colored :) I always end up going too long between dye jobs and I am not sure why. It doesn't take that long or cost that much; I just don't make it a priority. This project just might change that! My last haircut was in August and, for the most part, I have just had it trimmed for years. It was getting fairly long. Not anymore. It was a spur of the moment change that I think was just what I needed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The tripod has been moving around the house with me and I really appreciate the immediacy of the image on the point and shoot, but I am loading the Pentax with black and white film today. If I am lucky, I can take a break from carpet shampooing tomorrow and shoot the duaflex.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Looking at all of these images I have snapped from different angles has me thinking about something. Posture. I need to keep my shoulders back. How many times did my mom yell at me? How much did <a href="http://www.judyblume.com/books/middle/deenie.php" target="_blank">Judy Blume's Deenie</a> scare me? I need to do something to exercise and strengthen my core now or I am going to look older than I am.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am also wondering what I will do with all of these photos. Make some kind of collection of them? I would love to have one of my Mom. To see her through her own eyes would be amazing. There is a curious thing about Moms that I have only thought about more in-depth recently. Since reading <a href="http://www.randomhouse.com/book/203116/please-look-after-mom-by-kyung-sook-shin" target="_blank">Please Look After Mom by Kyung-Sook Shin</a>, I realize how easy it is for children to lose sight of their mother as an individual and just see her in the role of caretaker. They rely on her care but forget she has opinions, thoughts, and dreams. I have been a mother my entire adult life, unofficially from the age of 12, and maybe I have forgotten that I have dreams? That I am an individual? This project is going to force me to really think about how I want to portray who I am. </span><br />
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<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-83023913849540665992013-01-11T14:44:00.000-08:002013-01-11T14:44:12.353-08:00{1/52}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have no idea how to start this portrait challenge so I kept it basic with this spur of the moment Instagram pic. It will have to do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This week I have been hauling the digital around with me mounted on the tripod and snapping with the self timer. It is just a basic point and shoot, refurbished even, but it has been my old reliable. I am still angry that I lost the one C gave me for Christmas last year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am not sure how I am going to work out shooting film and making regular posts. I am not always on the ball about developing. So I think I will do some of each. There may be weeks where the digital photo is added before the film one. That makes sense. Take the pic with both cameras and have a monthly round-up of the film versions. Deal, that is how we will do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I did try to invest in an air shutter release, but the 20' one malfunctioned. I have a shorter one now. I'll still have to pick up a longer one if I want fun pictures. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">In recipe news, last night I made a Smitten Kitchen recipe for us and Neela. Tomato-glazed meatloaves with brown butter mashed potatoes. I didn't take any pictures of it, but it was amazing. I will definitely make it again, but I won't peel the potatoes and I won't forget the second round of worchestishchestshirishe sauce. Lou says I should put more glaze on them while they are baking so I will also do that. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHsBfEDwfLcxgikJVMdJ_y5DWmFtNi_jh3IoWhB1dSClo1jFHvLzrll1aNgncX-ikmd5MhLJbMTfHqWivt1CN7cokXeb8BevmCTatzjralrhqzDHXJk8UZUwxpcvAaUaXUNjDTPgAw5s/s1600/IMG_20130103_121423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHsBfEDwfLcxgikJVMdJ_y5DWmFtNi_jh3IoWhB1dSClo1jFHvLzrll1aNgncX-ikmd5MhLJbMTfHqWivt1CN7cokXeb8BevmCTatzjralrhqzDHXJk8UZUwxpcvAaUaXUNjDTPgAw5s/s200/IMG_20130103_121423.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Hope you are having a fun week. Within the last 7 days we have acquired 2 new cameras. I am shooting the duaflex asap, I already have the film for it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I found this one at the Nearly Nu shop, I don't think we will be able to shoot it, but it will make a dandy bookend. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-41852680295460872942013-01-04T09:25:00.003-08:002013-01-04T09:25:51.491-08:00Good Morning, Good Morning, Good Morning<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace; font-size: small;">I hope</span> <span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">everyone had a wonderful holiday season. Ours was nice, not as easy as we expected but also easier for me in some ways because I let go of some of the expectations I had. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We limited the gifts to 4 presents each: Want, need, wear, read + our homemade presents for each other. Our homemades were a delightful mix, E made each of us journals, M designed button monograms (which sounds fancier than they actually were- BUT he hates crafts AND had a broken arm), C made bath fizzies for each of us, and I was inspired by one of my jail lessons to rewrite fairy tales for each of them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Every year on New Years Day I write myself a letter at <a href="http://futureme.org/">futureme.org</a> to be sent on my birthday. Just a little check-in with myself about what I had on my mind for the year and where I was at. On occasion I write myself back on my birthday to be delivered on New Years. It is one of my favorite traditions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I made a few resolutions this year. The first being a 52project - I plan on taking 52 self-portraits this year. I got the idea from <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/" target="_blank">Soulemama's blog</a>, she was giving away a spot in an online group that provides themes and community for women taking on this challenge. Seeing whereas I don't have the funds for the group and I didn't win the giveaway, I am on my own; but just as excited to embark on this journey. I think I will learn alot about photography and myself. And at the end, I will maybe end up with a photo of myself I like. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">For my second resolution, I was inspired by <a href="http://freeleiblog.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Leigh-Ann's</a> instagram post for a Design Sponge challenge. She didn't want to say she was going to eat healthier, because what exactly does that mean? So she committed to one new recipe a week! Brilliant and fun! I'm excited to watch her progress. She is also doing a photo challenge and an art challenge!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">There are other goals and hopes and dreams I have for this year. Going back to school, reading lists to accomplish, and those pounds I have to make friends with or banish. But those are things I am going to do regardless if I make them an official "resolution". I want my resolutions to be fun- I resolve to play and have fun with my hobbies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">In knitting news, I am finishing Lou's scarf this week. Next I have to finish a pair of socks that are just missing the toes and then I can pick a pattern and yarn to make MYSELF a hat to go with my new coat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">What are your resolutions? Where are you headed this year? What are you looking forward to?</span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-16141310642708175012012-10-05T08:38:00.001-07:002012-10-05T08:47:22.138-07:00 <span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Oh Lordy! I hauled home some furniture from the side of the road today. Not sure if I am going to keep it, but it coordinates with the Brasilia so well. Maybe it is the new television stand? And then the triple dresser moves into my bedroom? And the yellow chest goes into Emily's room? But then where will the bookcase go? Oh, the trouble of living in a small house and having a furniture obsession. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I don't want to get rid of the yellow chest. It was the first furniture C and I bought together. And it ruined her back, so I feel obligated to love it forever. Plus, it is a fine, solid piece of furniture. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUUf7a8gn9qcGZCTODeNCb3iqwlUd2ntcdbtAWOQMCykJs1zIjje3mmXKshs1VvjGT5A3dq_4OBnh5mpEuuj0B310FvQ0s9cQjSWoCDph19Oeszh6utc3b_8wCOCa3fSo3YBL00dXW5A/s1600/IMG_20121005_083326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuUUf7a8gn9qcGZCTODeNCb3iqwlUd2ntcdbtAWOQMCykJs1zIjje3mmXKshs1VvjGT5A3dq_4OBnh5mpEuuj0B310FvQ0s9cQjSWoCDph19Oeszh6utc3b_8wCOCa3fSo3YBL00dXW5A/s320/IMG_20121005_083326.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">If someone had driven past and seen me loading the stereo console into the Camry all alone, they would have thought I was nuts. I have never really hauled much home from the side of the road before. It was fun, but it would have been easier in a truck and with a best friend. I managed to get it in the trunk, even though I ended up covered in spider egg sacs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">While huffing and puffing and cussing the bungie cord that wouldn't quite reach, I remembered what family I come from. A family of women that never needed a man's help to move anything. From a very young age I helped haul furniture from room to room and up and down stairs. There was NO WAY I couldn't load this up. (This might be what was going through C's head when the dresser vs. back showdown happened too.) Even Emily, when she was like 9 years old, helped me move dressers to the basement. I remember the kids crying when our first attempt ended with the dresser wedged in the stairwell and me trapped in the basement. She makes me proud by carrying on the tradition of women in our family flexing their muscles when it comes to redecorating. My focus on grooming Emily into a moving buddy may have resulted in Matthew becoming completely worthless though. Which is not going to be pretty when he gets home tonight and has to help me get the console in the house for its first cleaning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was already reminiscing about my Mom earlier today. It is strange how much I don't really know how she felt about things. Is it just the length of time since we have been able to talk to each other, or is my perspective of what I want to know changing with age? I kind of thought about asking her best friend to coffee to see if she could answer some of my questions. I don't know if that would be weird or not. I just wonder why she didn't have more close friends. Why didn't she date at all? Was she happy? I think she was happy with us, but there is a difference between being satisfied as a mother and happy as a woman. Also, what really happened the night I cut my leg and had stitches? Is there anyone that can tell me? Usually I miss her pretty bad around my birthday. That has lessened some over the years, but I sure could use some help in learning how to let Lou go to college. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I thought my time of feeling out of place as a parent was over. When they went to Kindergarten, I was the youngest Mom and always felt judged by the other parents. I never had any friends my age that had kids that were at the same stages as mine. I feel like, for the most part, my journey as a Mom has been a solo flight. Now I have to keep hearing, "You can't be old enough to have a daughter in college!" I am. And I don't know how to reply to that without getting mad. "I had her as a teenager and managed to not screw her up." "I was a teen Mom, but not like what you see on MTV, and have raised a daughter that will do better than I ever did." I will not say I made a mistake when I was a teenager. The kids were never that. I made a sacrifice of my life when I was a teenager and my reckless actions caught up with me. A sacrifice of my dreams for their success. And now seeing them succeed is my only wish. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Ugh, Ok time to not be so serious. Want to know which song always makes me dance and sing along? My Life by Billy Joel. I love it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Lyrics:</span><br />
Got a call from an old friend<br />
We used to be real close<br />
Said he couldn't go on the American way<br />
Closed the shop, sold the house<br />
Bought a ticket to the West Coast<br />
Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A.<br />
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I don't need you to worry for me cause I'm alright<br />
I don't want you to tell me it's time to come home<br />
I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life<br />
Go ahead with your own life, leave me alone<br />
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I never said you had to offer me a second chance<br />
(I never said you had to)<br />
I never said I was a victim of circumstance<br />
(I never said)<br />
I still belong, don't get me wrong<br />
You can speak your mind<br />
But not on my time<br />
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They will tell you, you can't sleep alone in a strange place<br />
Then they'll tell you, you can't sleep with somebody else<br />
Ah, but sooner or later you sleep in your own space<br />
Either way it's okay to wake up with yourself<br />
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I don't need you to worry for me cause I'm alright<br />
I don't want you to tell me it's time to come home<br />
I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life<br />
Go ahead with your own life, leave me alone<br />
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I never said you had to offer me a second chance<br />
(I never said you had to)<br />
I never said I was a victim of circumstance<br />
(Of cirumstance)<br />
I still belong, don't get me wrong<br />
You can speak your mind<br />
But not on my time<br />
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I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life<br />
Go ahead with your own life, leave me alone<br />
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(Keep it to yourself, it's my life.)<br />
(Keep it to yourself, it's my life.)<br />
(Keep it to yourself, it's my life.)<br />
(Keep it to yourself, it's my life.)<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-33603469554118309222012-09-04T12:12:00.002-07:002012-09-04T12:12:51.004-07:00The New Normal<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am trying to find a routine to my days and weeks. Trying to make the adjustment to dinner menus for 3, one of whom believes meat and donuts are the only sustenance he needs. I tried to suggest a new seating chart for the table so we would be grouped closer, but that was rejected. Now we sit from end to end of the 6 seater. I think every single one of my meals has involved wine.I wasn't joking when I said that was going to be my new hobby. ;) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">So many changes for me, mostly, although I know everyone feels different. I have to give more Moe-Moe snuggles. Plans need to be made to have the dogs taken care of during long 12-hour shifts. I have a new address to memorize. Different closets to put clothes in, and a different way of doing laundry altogether. No one to pick up at 3:00 because soccer doesn't end until 5. Alot more time alone for me, really. And it is strange, trying to settle into this pattern. It just doesn't feel right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I know there are thousands of parents out there just like me;I imagine mothers having the hardest time. It is just so strange not knowing every detail and everyone she knows. I am so excited and so proud and so devastated at the same time. It is a tricky place to be and still portray myself as "adjusting well". Difficult to find the balance of "letting go" and being a safety net.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It is hard not to text every morning my standard goodbye, "Make good choices" which means everything. Be safe. Be aware. Be smart. Think of the future. Make a difference. Eat a healthy lunch. Be friends with the right people. Be proud of yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It is even harder not to end the day with my standard question, "What was the best part of your day?" It has been a part of our lives since Lou's Kindergarten teacher, one of the best teachers she's ever had, told me that was a better way to get her to talk than just asking what they had learned. I was so frustrated then that I was not a part of her day and all she would tell me is that she had done "nothing" all day. I was not the only one that had a transition then either. In the beginning, Sonny used to save half of his lunch for her and she would come home with half of hers still in her lunch box. They would sit and share at 3:00 every afternoon.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The reality is, I'm not a part of her every day now. I am not supposed to be. I know she is adjusting to a new pace of life, a new way of thinking and living. It is something she has to face on her own and I am so glad she made it to this point. None of my nieces and nephews have gone to college, most didn't even finish high school. I want every door to be open for her. I want her to forge the way for Sonny so he can focus on his next steps. I want them to do better than I have in every way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">With hockey practices
just around the corner and a new work schedule, my dinner plans will be all shook up again. There are new activities to plan for and new goals to be made. Again,like when she started Kindergarten, I feel so out of place compared to other people my age. Most will still have their babies home for many years, while I forge ahead into a different future.
I will learn to flow with another new normal. I will make good choices. </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-58975411901396869102012-08-29T10:58:00.001-07:002012-08-29T10:58:44.458-07:00Onward and Upward<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">Another school year has started for us. In some ways it is the same, and in so many ways it is different. We are getting used to a new rythm</span>, one that we have never danced to before. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cQwmDhUZaWjtNkd-HufbhSheB_BNy6hzAvrVr4f2G4f0YrB8GP2BPMdxlSPqVsYkeov2vnTAiuoPrX7Wi4d7GIrscOk3RgXD2aOQPZYGfd66Yy2D9C5GcJ7f2sY6zi7QWPUa9CERsvY/s1600/IMG_20120822_071923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cQwmDhUZaWjtNkd-HufbhSheB_BNy6hzAvrVr4f2G4f0YrB8GP2BPMdxlSPqVsYkeov2vnTAiuoPrX7Wi4d7GIrscOk3RgXD2aOQPZYGfd66Yy2D9C5GcJ7f2sY6zi7QWPUa9CERsvY/s200/IMG_20120822_071923.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was left behind on Matthew's first day of school, he rode with a friend. I still got up and made him a wonderful candlelit birthday breakfast before he flew out the door. I am still not used to them having friends that can drive. He looked wonderful in his new clothes. And for once he got some reasonable shoes that I don't think are hideous. I do feel bad that his first day has been on his birthday the last few years, he kind of gets ripped off by having to share the first day of school budget and fanfare.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Today is Emily's first day of class. I know what she was planning on wearing, but I don't know if that is what she went with. And I am not entirely sure which class she has today. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTuYrRVAw2X1CkrxAu7WsIcF18nvdH1Hl1vafYcI1AqcUIz4h7FTrFVfU7-awlhyphenhypheniYAeuOqoTtG6PzZpjUYDEmdNxTL1rJRCsvQLYDno2s2bsPc-lWMNHfvcRu38opFicQlk0GdMTgr0/s1600/IMG_20120825_133513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTuYrRVAw2X1CkrxAu7WsIcF18nvdH1Hl1vafYcI1AqcUIz4h7FTrFVfU7-awlhyphenhypheniYAeuOqoTtG6PzZpjUYDEmdNxTL1rJRCsvQLYDno2s2bsPc-lWMNHfvcRu38opFicQlk0GdMTgr0/s320/IMG_20120825_133513.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Dropping her off and getting her settled in was fun. The actual unloading process was very easy and her room is big and bright with a wonderful view. She is definitely in the heart of downtown. I hope her roommates are keepers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The programs the school had for parents were encouraging and they were smart enough to fill the broken-hearted Moms with liquor Saturday night. She had a ton of programs to attend too and this weekend she will be busy exploring the city. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It will take a while to adjust to one less heartbeat in the house. I am already counting the days til parent weekend so I can go visit and see all that she has learned.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">So many parents there were concerned about what kind of jobs their children would have after school. I have never worried about that. She will be doing what she was always meant to do, and I can teach her to be poor if neccessary. So much of what is truly valuable cannot be bought, there is no price tag for innate happiness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I did realize I pretty much fail with the Pentax. When I have film, I don't have the camera. When I have the camera, I don't have film.... Someday I will get it right. Hopefully soon. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-43539413092973495272012-08-10T09:26:00.002-07:002012-08-10T09:26:59.253-07:00Summer needs a speeding ticket!<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
I wanted to have so much free time this summer. I envisioned long days spent reading, taking pictures, and knitting. In reality I have spent so much time in the car, washcloths are the only thing I have been able to knit, and I lost some film and/or forgot to pack it when I wanted it.</div>
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But it has still been great. We have gone to Woodhaven more than we ever have. Even a few trips for two + two puppies! Our garden is more amazing than I could have anticipated. Matthew has not wrecked the car (yet) and my nerves are not shot (even though I keep saying rules of the road while C is driving). We made it to 2 concerts, her fave and my old reliable. Both were great.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I have managed to mostly avoid the sunburn, even though I am now a deep-</span>ender<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">. I learned to tread water in June and now I do not want to get out of the pool. I am able to just jump into the deep end (with Jenny & Louie doing a countdown) and I went down the slide. I have even decided that I will start training now for the Senior Olympics so I will be at the top of my game. After 65 years of training, I will surpass Michael Phelps in greatness.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3b3Wrs1ol-APgdXryBbDbeSMUl45QacOoUCZKO9fzNSf43HfBi372397Z9adqf6treQESoW0CfmUQffOwqr6k3oOJswoJWC-IMFqgdeC1r3y6ox68Ct23lwxXmmXOTLMIEWqcZ7MqrA/s1600/babyme+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3b3Wrs1ol-APgdXryBbDbeSMUl45QacOoUCZKO9fzNSf43HfBi372397Z9adqf6treQESoW0CfmUQffOwqr6k3oOJswoJWC-IMFqgdeC1r3y6ox68Ct23lwxXmmXOTLMIEWqcZ7MqrA/s400/babyme+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby me, you can't see my sisters holding up numbers for my performances ala Olympic style :)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">My corner of the garden gave us carrots and peas as well as some early tomatoes. The tomatoes are still going strong. Who could have known that picking carrots could be so much fun? Like unearthing a mystery! And they are so tasty.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIL5gs5h2a8UaSiXBp3FxaOysRLyhM2xMbXVEqwRt7c0bOkhOosaIx9x2M7W0Kp4k4EBBRNOGUY266Ow9srU1-5MNN3v8HW9goUlBzmqDkIQnNcGCdekH7O2U_GgkjNj6NB8Kqu5b-1k/s1600/moe+carrot+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuIL5gs5h2a8UaSiXBp3FxaOysRLyhM2xMbXVEqwRt7c0bOkhOosaIx9x2M7W0Kp4k4EBBRNOGUY266Ow9srU1-5MNN3v8HW9goUlBzmqDkIQnNcGCdekH7O2U_GgkjNj6NB8Kqu5b-1k/s400/moe+carrot+001.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">he didn't know I had a camera</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I also took a writing class at the YWCA. I was not expecting it to lead where it has when I first saw the flyer at the library. I met weekly with a wonderful group of ladies and was introduced to some wonderful readings. I have a goal of writing a short story before I turn 40, and this class was one step to jumpstart that process. But, maybe I am not such a short story writer? Maybe I am an essay writer? Or...a poet? We covered nonfiction, fiction, and poetry in class. I even found inspiration in my carrots:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Fresh Carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Still buried this morning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">From seeds planted last March, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sewn with a gentle pat of hope </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Fresh carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Still buried this morning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Pulled by their tops,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Into the bright afternoon sun</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Fresh carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Still buried this morning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Rinsed in the sink, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Scrubbed by the cloth that I knit</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Fresh carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Still buried this morning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Slivered by my knife, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Dressed with a spicy sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Fresh carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Still buried this morning</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Served for dinner,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">With dear, dear friends</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Now I am a volunteer at the county jail, doing a women's literature class. Never would have thunk it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Garage sales have been so-so. I went often in the beginning, but I haven't found anything too notable. A set of dishes to fill in missing place setting in a mix-and-match sort of way. Some things for E for college. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Speaking of college. It is coming too fast, but I am so excited for her to experience real life! She is going to have so much fun. I have decided after she leaves I will pick up a new hobby. Wine. :) </span></span><br />
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<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-39367319866025072052012-05-31T11:05:00.001-07:002012-05-31T11:05:19.403-07:00Say Cheese!<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
Early in May I bought an SLR at a church garage sale. I was so excited to have a new toy to play with. Britney came over and taught me the basics of using the camera, I dug out the old TIME LIFE books I had about cameras, and I set to work figuring it out. I spent the weekend just practicing focusing and learning the different parts of the camera. I have always had point-n-shoot cameras and photography was not an option for me in high school. I have always been interested in learning about it, especially in my scrapbooking years, but with little kids and a million other things to do it never got squeezed in. </div>
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So here was this fun new toy. I loaded it with film, shot a roll, and the camera promptly broke after I rewound the film. Plus very few of the pictures even showed an image. </div>
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But I still wanted to play. There was a bag and directions for a CANON AE-1 at EP Goodwill, but the camera was missing. They said someone had probably stolen it. Goodwill.com looked promising. Several older cameras were listed at prices I could justify, but it is tough to bid on something you can't hold and check out first. </div>
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Then last week, C and I stopped at a yard sale in the afternoon. There was a camera that I carried around with me while we looked at the other stuff. C had to help me get the case off, but it advanced and the shutter clicked so I dug $5 out of my purse. I really had to dig because I had just given Matthew cash to go hang out with his friends. I made it, even though I had to use 10 pennies!</div>
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I again spent the weekend googling about the camera, reading the manual online, and learning about this <a href="http://www.kenrockwell.com/yashica/electro-35.htm" target="_blank">Yashica Electro GSN</a>. Bummer. The battery was no longer available. I was going to have to order an adapter to make a newer battery work. :( Until I found this <a href="http://thelearninglensman.com/2010/12/02/how-to-replace-a-yashica-electro-35-battery/" target="_blank">link</a>. Using the information provided in the article and in the comments I set out to make a battery on Memorial Day. I had a wild goose chase finding the tubing I needed, and I had to tear apart 2 different remote controls to rob the springs out of them, BUT...I made it! Using a PX28 with the tubing and the spring, my battery light lit up and my "revolutionary, solid-state Electronic Computer Brain, which measures the light with computer-like precision," was all set to go. I felt smart.</div>
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As is tradition with most of my new cameras, Matthew got the first exposure.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBNpFYfdX_0wBBwXmCF99L4kOI_xPKa9aPqN2pAeAJB889QRPHMr2PXW847XGognY8Ur-bjwDPj_c71R-TZOoL8qChtHmM_HwQ3YNub3WEuZbPK5BN0RwSOZKztre6VxHCIWDAICOr8A/s1600/s7+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBNpFYfdX_0wBBwXmCF99L4kOI_xPKa9aPqN2pAeAJB889QRPHMr2PXW847XGognY8Ur-bjwDPj_c71R-TZOoL8qChtHmM_HwQ3YNub3WEuZbPK5BN0RwSOZKztre6VxHCIWDAICOr8A/s200/s7+001.jpg" width="200" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">please excuse my scanning job</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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I continued to shoot the roll over the next 3 days and then the moment of truth came...developing. I did ok. I have alot to learn. Stuff about the flash and lighting. Composition. Ok, I have everything to learn. But the best part is, I have the tool to be able to do it. It seems to be a solid little rangefinder camera, without the additional confusing settings of a full on SLR. So I am going to reload, take notes, and shoot another round. It is time to play!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew on our walk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C's picture of me at our picnic lunch.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The deer that startled us when we startled them</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">swinging makes me laugh from my belly</td></tr>
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<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-33618071133983561482012-04-20T10:41:00.001-07:002012-08-29T20:40:27.805-07:00Pretties To-do<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
There are so many ideas percolating in my brain. I feel the need to create and change. I plan on several areas feeling a refreshing touch. </div>
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Plans for my garden:</div>
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Rainbow sticks for my peas. They will anchor the strings for them to climb into their glory and add a bit of color.</div>
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I decided my plot needs a little natural decorating. I have found a robin's egg shell and many other found items will be combined to make art in the dirt. I am excited. I think an owl theme will prevail this year. </div>
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I found my plant markers, I just need to find the right supplies.</div>
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Operation refresh living room:</div>
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I am going to recushion the couch myself. </div>
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I need to sew a slip-cover that will not shift if I can't find a commercial one. I am tired, oh-so-tired, of replacing the sheet or blanket that protects its wonderful redness. </div>
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The couch needs some throw pillows also, dog-friendly throw pillows for Miss Jones.</div>
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The record corner needs some wall help....I am tired of it being blase.</div>
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I am going to reorganize the bookshelf and make it new and fun. So many odd little things to fit in in fun, surprising ways. </div>
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Kitchen Spruce up:</div>
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New valences to go with the new curtains that will hopefully be sporting their pom-pom trim. </div>
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Some prints to decorate the walls. </div>
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A hutch reorganization to showcase my pans in a different way.</div>
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Maybe new shelving by the stove?</div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I should create more little "vignettes" on the shelves by the sink. Fun little spots to fill your eyes. </span><br />
<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-40426931705659800422012-04-17T08:10:00.001-07:002012-04-17T08:10:37.729-07:00Hellow, Tuesday<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">
This weekend I began feeling antsy. After being downright hot, then cold, it is finally warming up and looking like a normal Spring. Even if all of the plants are ahead of schedule (lilacs in March?!?). The peonies should be blooming this week or early next week. I cannot wait. They might be my favorites of all time, although it seems whatever is blooming at the moment is always my favorite. </div>
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I have my own garden this year. Really gardenS! A veggie/herb patch in the back yard and two flower beds in the front. I am going ahead with my flower seeds this week. I already have peas, carrots, and broccoli in the backyard. I need to get my peas staked up and started up the strings this week. I have a feeling these little gardens are going to be so much fun. And so delicious. Plus there are 60+ tomato plants on the front porch growing stronger everyday. Those are C's babies though. Her garden area is HUGE this year. </div>
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We have had our share of excitement recently. Three college acceptance letters arrived and future choices were made. (Close to home, YAY!) We have been on quick little day trips here and there. Knitting projects have flown off the needles: a <a href="http://www.kelbournewoolens.com/quakingaspen.html" target="_blank">Quaking Aspen shawl</a> (nearly done), a calorimetry (for Louie? I thought it was for me!), and <a href="http://maddermade.com/patterns/22/" target="_blank">baby booties</a> that just need some decoration before gifting. I have my next project ready to go after a fun day of yarn shopping with our favorite Aunt Carol. Rainbow yarn....oh my! Sonny got his driver's permit and after his first time behind the wheel promptly lost interest in driving o_0 But we are heading out again this week and pushing forward with this important skill for him. </div>
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I have begun making a list of forty goals to accomplish before the big 4 0. Things like writing a short story and submitting it for publication....Taking a vacation and staying at an <a href="http://www.acehotel.com/" target="_blank">ACE hotel</a>....Learning to knit "continental" style. All fun things to tackle. And if I get through these forty things quickly...I will choose forty more! New things to play with are always popping up. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">But I can't shake this feeling that something is about to happen. Like something big is right around the corner. Something even more exciting, in a good way. I can't wait to find out what it is. I'm ready!</span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-81483552769407978522011-12-06T15:43:00.001-08:002011-12-06T19:56:57.079-08:00Hey Everyone, It is Present Time!!<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Christmas is near! I have no interest in the season as a religious holiday, but I love to celebrate our family's traditions and show how much I love them.<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> Some would argue that gifts are not the way to do that. I think it can be. My children don't get a lot of things throughout the year. New clothes at the start of school. Little things here and there, but we aren't rich. Sometimes it makes me sad when I tell them they will have to wait until Friday for something that really shouldn't have to wait. So at Christmas I do my best to make it nice for them.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">When they were little it was great to see their excitement build and read their letters to Santa. I have always tried to shift the focus from one of greed to one of thoughtfulness. When they became too old for "Santa", we began the tradition of them choosing the items for each other's stockings. Even as little ones, their gifts for each other was always a book they chose for each other. That night at the book store spent making a selection for someone else was one of our favorite nights. It was also one of the few times they ever received a new book.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas hats 2010</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Last year we started a new tradition of making one gift for everyone in the house as well. I made hats for everyone, Lou designed scratch boards for us, C made keepsake boxes for the kids and a frame for me, Sonny decorated pillowcases with iron-ons. It was really nice. I hope that is something we continue. I know I already have plans for this year and am all set to begin the making this week. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As with so many things, our holiday traditions will be going through a transition as the kids grow up. One of the pins I saw today on pinterest gave me an idea that might fit the new situation. It advised 4 gifts. One thing you need, one thing you want, one thing to wear, and one thing to read. That would be lovely at any age. And no matter how grown up they will be, they are always going to be my kids.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start of a gift</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I also plan to make gifts for some of my daughter's friends, my nieces, and my nephew. I don't know what else will make its way to my needles, but one thing is sure, every stitch makes my heart happy. I don't want the things I make to be just an obligatory gift, but something that warms someone's soul.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">My Mom probably instilled my love of Christmas and Santa. She was an amazing Santa and would go to incredible lengths to get everything just right. I know the efforts we put in for my kids when they were little. I can only imagine how she was able to get us the exact Cabbage Patch Kids we wanted in 1983. Our stockings were always overflowing and the house looked marvelous when we woke up full of wonder. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">It wasn't until I had kids that I realized the antics that went on in those overnight hours. It was the only day of the year that my mom would drink. Vodka, cranberry juice, and Squirt. There is photographic evidence of her peeing her pants when my sister fell on wrapping paper after setting the camera timer to take a picture of them in front of the finished tree. It still brings tears to my eyes to think of it. She had so much fun providing that Christmas morning for us. She would go on day-long shopping trips with her oldest friends every year. It was often the only time they saw each other; she worked 60 hours a week. We would have to go hide when she got home so they could carry in all of the packages. Sometimes my out-of-town sisters had to be called on to hunt down a hard-to-get present. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">One year, we could not find a Little Big Ears doll for my niece. Goodness knows why she wanted one. We could not pull it off. But Santa can do anything. A week after Christmas we had the doll, wrapped it, and threw it out the upstairs window on top of the bay windows. We hollered for my niece and I crawled out on the icy slope to get the present that had fallen out of Santa's sleigh. She was a believer. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am proud to say my children believed in Santa for a very long time. (My idea of how long may vary from what they would say, but they were smart enough not to let me know.) I would not trade those years in for anything and I hope when they have little ones they will let me play Santa with them. Sometimes I miss being able to say, "Santa is watching you," and have that make everyone behave.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I believe that one day of gift giving, and getting, will not instill greed in a child. If you live your life 364 days of the year on the right path, one day will not undo everything. Taking away an "American" institution could be more hurtful to a child than a few toys wrapped in paper. Life is not made up of holidays, if you don't show you care about someone everyday, no amount of presents can buy that. </span></span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-25854718469969003272011-11-29T21:53:00.001-08:002011-11-29T22:58:51.461-08:00Thankfulness<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Thanksgiving is over, but I am still reflecting on the feeling of gratitude. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">We always say what we are thankful for before we eat our dinner. Usually as we are filling our plates with stuffing and cranberries. I will never forget the year my young niece said she was thankful for pickles. Dinner was running late and pickles were the only thing my Mom would let her have before the feast.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">This year, like many others, I said I was thankful for my health and my family. I also mentioned I was thankful for my new table and that you can cook a turkey in a crock pot. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">But, those are fairly generic things to be grateful for. It is like saying your New Year's resolution is to go on a diet. Not that they are bad things to be grateful for, but, with more time and consideration, I realize there are many other things I would add to the list. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for my family. To be able to join together for a meal that we all helped prepare and share laughter is the best thing ever. Only briefly did I worry that next year Lou might not be home for the holiday. We can always Skype. I am lucky to have a clan that calls each other Greg.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am also thankful for my health. I really don't have any issues and that is a great feeling. I never get sick (knock on wood) and my aches and pains really are minimal, even if I do a ton of whining.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for my relationship. I am always striving to be a better person and the partner my darling C deserves. She is my future. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for my job. Wow, I never thought I would say that. But I really don't mind it. I am still not a big fan of having to be somewhere at a certain time for someone else's profit, but it could be worse. It was worse for about 4 years. At least now I don't feel my soul being sucked from my body as I cross the parking lot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for all of the little things that bring me pleasure throughout the day and remind me of how rich my life is. Coffee in the morning, a wonderful bowl of oatmeal, the warm feeling of cat snuggles against my legs when I wake up, and greetings from the pups when I come home. Money can't buy those things and I am thankful that I am able to appreciate what they add to my life. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for the time I am able to spend knitting and reading. It feeds my soul. I have been able to make some wonderful gifts of love this year. The novels I have read helped shaped who I am today, the words soaking in and molding my view of the world. It has been time well-spent.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for my dog. Maybe she should go in the family section? I think she is in a category of her own. She makes me smile everyday. I have more pictures of her on my Facebook than the kids... I think that might be because she is more tolerant of my photography, though. She is the bestest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for the wonderful furniture that has come into my life this year. I have coveted the Brasilia line from Broyhill for ages. Never did I imagine that my home would one day be full of it. Living room, dining room, and bedroom are adorned with pieces that make my eyes happy. I feel so lucky that we were able to work things out to have such treasures. I am excited to create the memories that this furniture will witness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for the recipes that I have found and prepared for my family. I love to try new things and see my skills grow. I appreciate the new pans I got for my birthday and use them with respect for the cook they previously belonged to. It is exciting to taste new flavors and grow our own food. I look forward to doing more of that with C in the Spring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I am thankful for having the time to live my life. I am thankful for every day and try to make each one count. I am thankful for the laughter that has been the music of my days. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">There are a million other things I could list, but right now I want to be thankful for my bed and the rest I get there. </span><br />
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<br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-42426095515662459612011-11-17T07:55:00.001-08:002011-11-17T09:08:37.125-08:00Dragging My Feet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmN0U4xjysvKhDjiCLhcy0NBaUCzmRAzrO0hjk-piTopGbZ3bn7c5oFUJy7nxQvtXHi8t9Fc3uqAQvYYvGbxaDWNFTYXFgNKNOYnbYhgIfBHTMf-v-36QB_u3jmAnd0Bu9PhpxjZTY5Lk/s1600/yarn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmN0U4xjysvKhDjiCLhcy0NBaUCzmRAzrO0hjk-piTopGbZ3bn7c5oFUJy7nxQvtXHi8t9Fc3uqAQvYYvGbxaDWNFTYXFgNKNOYnbYhgIfBHTMf-v-36QB_u3jmAnd0Bu9PhpxjZTY5Lk/s320/yarn2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I do not know why these socks are taking me so long to finish. I love the yarn, the pattern makes me happy, and they are my birthday present to myself. I had one done by my birthday. My most recent deadline was last Friday and they are still not ready for toes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">What is my malfunction?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I love making socks. They make me feel smart. </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Dreams of the next pattern have already been percolating in my brain. Something with some tricky cables in a solid color. I am looking at either teal or bright red yarn from The Fiber Universe.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqSiVC6R4_rvg2O0l5pYwuf0V-9oYpn4hkNpmQJaut3wwLtkzV0G-WLBnhtTD_wLZfLpVpRsB51rYFRKbLtu8EnPQj56x-_K49x_wr9B7Xt4rHkAaTsvzAmyc9vAqfB2etsRs0_ITAqak/s1600/sock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqSiVC6R4_rvg2O0l5pYwuf0V-9oYpn4hkNpmQJaut3wwLtkzV0G-WLBnhtTD_wLZfLpVpRsB51rYFRKbLtu8EnPQj56x-_K49x_wr9B7Xt4rHkAaTsvzAmyc9vAqfB2etsRs0_ITAqak/s320/sock.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I also have some more Madelinetosh yarn from Philly to make a hat for C. It should go quickly, although I have never made an ear-flap hat before. Maybe that will be the perfect break before I begin panicking about Christmas knitting. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Last year we started a tradition of giving a hand-made gift to each other. I made us all hats, with mine being a combination of all of them. I loved it. Shorty gave us all personalized pillowcases, C created memento keepers, and Lou made us each scratch board illustrations. I am planning on felted slippers for all of us this year. I know which yarn and pattern I will use for the girl version, but not sure for Sonny's yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Maybe the problem is that I am knitting these socks for myself. It seems that I am usually more motivated when I am knitting for someone else. I didn't have much of a delay in finishing my sister's birthday shawl, even though it was completed at the exact last possible mailing moment. Same with my great-niece's wedding sweater.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">It is possible, with the knitting time I get today, that they will be ready for toes. And if there is any time for knitting in Milwaukee, I may be able to finish them up. However, I am determined not to look up yarn stores in Milwaukee. If we happen to encounter one, I will go in though. I shouldn't buy anything, unless it is the most perfectest sock yarn ever....but I could still visit. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-17638164034155182362011-11-16T09:27:00.001-08:002011-11-16T10:37:55.546-08:00{Oh, What a Find!} - Brasilia Edition/Addition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGM1g54XLWpaSN_5Lg4aiBeqlVutT529QWEaM_Fsrmg16R7lBuN2pDYJJTg96wy5uzCTTIi1rMZ-h1cF_FHZMpNaHgKWdJWZx2mF3WcD5uX6sAq5jR2LtVo0o30E-ybCQssAbhEszhSig/s1600/spooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGM1g54XLWpaSN_5Lg4aiBeqlVutT529QWEaM_Fsrmg16R7lBuN2pDYJJTg96wy5uzCTTIi1rMZ-h1cF_FHZMpNaHgKWdJWZx2mF3WcD5uX6sAq5jR2LtVo0o30E-ybCQssAbhEszhSig/s320/spooks.jpg" width="239" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Halloween night was wonderful. We were finished trick-or-treating fairly early, but the kids had full pumpkins and a lot of fun. We even stopped at a house that had decorated their whole yard and they got glowing bracelets. It was fun to see them running from house to house as fast as they could and taking turns ringing doorbells. This is what childhood should be like.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I had told Julianna that we were going to stay out until we had some Peanut M&M's, because those are my favorite, but she got some at her grandmother's house for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">The rest of our Halloween evening was spent with a living room full of teenagers. I love it when they come over to hang out. They watched the Blair Witch Project and ate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">At the end of the night it was time for our Halloween tradition called Pumpkin Smash. We always smash our own pumpkins in the street. It was hilarious this year. When Jenny heaved her pumpkin over her head, the lid came off and hit her skull. I giggled at that, but was waiting for the grand finale. We had Trevor (whom I had not previously met) light a random firework I had found and put it inside Charity's pumpkin. It was fairly anti-climactic, mostly just a fizzle and some smoke. Since it didn't explode, he retrieved it from the road and went to smash it to smithereens. It was still smoking from the firework and when he went to throw it, he released too early and it went zinging towards Emily's head. She had to duck really fast and then it almost hit the window. It was the best ever!! I laughed all night thinking about the smoking gourd's flight and the lid plopping onto Jenny's head. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">The other Halloween night excitement was finding a craigslist posting for dining room furniture. I had been looking for a new table for years, since my wild birthday party where we broke the table and fixed it up with some 2x4's. There were times when I felt like just settling for anything else, but I knew exactly which set I dreamt of. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would own it. And there it was. The Brasilia hutch, table, six chairs, and three leaves. $500. In Tremont.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I could not believe it. I interrupted the kids' movie to announce the posting. I started compiling a list of things to sell to get money. I tossed and turned all night. I couldn't wait to call about it, but I was also sick to my stomach about calling. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">Finally at 10:30 a.m., I felt like I could manage to call and not sound insane. Voicemail. By my lunch break though, I had a return voicemail. I called back and we set up an appointment for Thursday night to see the furniture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I went on a craigslist posting frenzy. At my knitting group, I sold <em>YARN! </em>I considered selling plasma.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">On Thursday night, we drove to their house. I saw it, bargained, begged C, and set a date for delivery. The next Friday, this past Friday, my furniture came home for $400. They even delivered for us. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfOZmJpx9dc29DVXT45CuEeI2F2JmSjuOh-EFQF09HftZ3OzQ_0V8NNcr6TzfHAvuZ7Dis1J-ABOQA4sXAPYjsd6ZfC9nu-38iJhZu2Ctq_DhVTmtQLn7PqbGMP4UtMI-iNgsvc_biwk/s1600/hutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfOZmJpx9dc29DVXT45CuEeI2F2JmSjuOh-EFQF09HftZ3OzQ_0V8NNcr6TzfHAvuZ7Dis1J-ABOQA4sXAPYjsd6ZfC9nu-38iJhZu2Ctq_DhVTmtQLn7PqbGMP4UtMI-iNgsvc_biwk/s320/hutch.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">The furniture had belonged to an Aunt that had passed away. She lived in a big house that sat on ten acres of land in the middle of Grand Rapids, MI. They believe she got it soon after her wedding. She was well-off and gathered the family for Thanksgiving dinners at this table. They had some of her other furniture available too. All of it was of a vintage, ornate style. She had a grand staircase in this house. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I feel my four walls are not worthy of this set, but I know the next place I live will probably be chosen based on how the Brasilia will look in it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi451AzJdfz8V3HI8pIBZFN04jkVOAa477Ydcf7th2uRR3qz6K1t35HefZ212qI_QtrcK-M9Z_80Lvw5Cb8j7sOpuVr6i7utoVcsoAt-4sj3dfH1uKJuSBDv7O2cPFJEfXLfTSY3Eq3tiM/s1600/brasilia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi451AzJdfz8V3HI8pIBZFN04jkVOAa477Ydcf7th2uRR3qz6K1t35HefZ212qI_QtrcK-M9Z_80Lvw5Cb8j7sOpuVr6i7utoVcsoAt-4sj3dfH1uKJuSBDv7O2cPFJEfXLfTSY3Eq3tiM/s320/brasilia.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I was so anxious the whole time it was in transport. Not because my oldest child was riding home with craigslist strangers, but what if something happened to the furniture on the road? (I knew E could handle herself) Emily and I moved in the heavy pieces, we let Matthew handle the chairs. I polished the rest of the night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">The table top will rarely see the light of day. I have the table pad on it, with tablecloths. I figure for fancy dinners we will take the tablecloth off and use runners and placemats. The Canonsburg Temporama set looks amazing in the open portion. I had to rearrange it aobut 6 times to get it exactly how I wanted it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I am in love. It makes my soul happy to see the straight edges, rich wood, and curved details. Even my Loverface had to admit she was happy the next morning to see it in the rising sun. I am a lucky, lucky girl. </span><br />Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-85391373744186056282011-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:002011-10-27T13:34:31.903-07:00Cuteness<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP7XCSmLeHD3kXrEH55bEZJDswfUwvUvF1NZtS98OT9KNjrk1ij-aXbGZh7s2OiXYyK3HZrv0ihqMQMgelAZIwTRDxPRD27etg_nmqiRSj4DMM2wQP1aMB6jdOCO-DnqFqmfI9jGnljA/s1600/curts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP7XCSmLeHD3kXrEH55bEZJDswfUwvUvF1NZtS98OT9KNjrk1ij-aXbGZh7s2OiXYyK3HZrv0ihqMQMgelAZIwTRDxPRD27etg_nmqiRSj4DMM2wQP1aMB6jdOCO-DnqFqmfI9jGnljA/s320/curts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love that you can see the tomatoes ripening</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I finally found the fabric for my new kitchen curtains. A square of vintage cotton from a yard sale is now hemmed up and hanging from my windows. I will add the pom-pom ball trim to the bottom as soon as I get the go-ahead from C. I am happy to have a new update and soon there will be shelves and new prints on the walls too. All in honor of my new pans.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib6O-_zZJkH6AfMqcHhuChUTeresvxkh-TxE2bNuoPkQk6INR9a3fm1Mapm7ss51p6ogshN__E6Mb0nkK8rGpSd7I7O8Hf09HisfJokx1xrWE6qOCpqt1xPoCA5Uf04BuzyN8LLd34yp0/s1600/spooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib6O-_zZJkH6AfMqcHhuChUTeresvxkh-TxE2bNuoPkQk6INR9a3fm1Mapm7ss51p6ogshN__E6Mb0nkK8rGpSd7I7O8Hf09HisfJokx1xrWE6qOCpqt1xPoCA5Uf04BuzyN8LLd34yp0/s200/spooks.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">It was tricky figuring out the new sewing machine, luckily my friend was very patient in answering my questions and sent me photo tutorials. And C politely ignored my cussing. Add to that the frustration of using a pattern that was the wrong size, there were a few times I wanted to chuck the whole thing out the window. But we were able to get everything worked out and the kids seemed happy with their outfits. I can't wait until Monday to take them trick-or-treating. I have my fingers crossed for good weather. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-34447966021098860612011-10-21T09:07:00.000-07:002011-10-21T09:07:31.141-07:00Progress?<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I read through some of the directions to import <a href="http://www.sarity.typepad.com/">Sarity</a> from it's Typepad home. It does not look like an easy thing to do. Right now I am just thinking of changing Typepad to a micro account and allowing the content to stay there. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">What will you need to go there to find?</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: Courier New;">My super secret <a href="http://sarity.typepad.com/sarity/2010/12/sharing-my-secrets.html">Chocolate Crumble Bars</a> recipe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Courier New;">My previous Oh What a Find! Treasures</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Courier New;">Pictures form 2010-2011</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Courier New;">Hilarious stories and life updates</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: Courier New;">I now have most of one costume done (just need a tiara) and am ready to sew a skirt with some imporvisations and modify a t-shirt to become a cheerleader costume. I thought I was going to get off easy and be able to let Julianna wear a traditional Herron girl costume, the gypsy skirt. No deal. She is too big. And it is so sad because it is such a beautiful costume. Back in the cedar chest for it an hopefully I can remember it next year for Annabelly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I like to take my nieces and nephews trick-or-treating and sew their costumes. I didn't the last 2 years, but I did take them to Wildlife Scary Park. They had a good time. This year, I am off work early so we can hit the streets and get our loot. I am so excited. A cheerleader, a ballerina, and Wolverine will be out haunting the neighborhood and fighting over who gets to ring the doorbell. I hope it is warm out. Or at the least, not damp feeling....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New;">And I hope my sewing machine will work....without cuss words. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7569022061493084168.post-23073723346028126882011-10-19T09:43:00.000-07:002011-10-19T09:43:25.799-07:00Moving In<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have decided to move my blog over to Blogger. The biggest reason being that I want to free up the money I was paying TypePad to donate to NPR. Maybe a silly reason, but I also feel Blogger is going to be easier to customize and create the online home that I truly envision. There may be some bumps along the way, but I think I will be able to import my previous posts. Hopefully without too much of a headache. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I made a few changes today. A few more will be coming soon. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl92Hfj5f3KNfEeVVy3dDco_hX2oNfiH6en6csN7qdhzpMJxrAewZF7pfene91QB49hebufhflN9OUPSb873PrWTM3l4j0o__gY0weTDuzsMcaodQH27R7sCId4Dwysngxnmwwaozb8g/s1600/IMG_20111007_175333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl92Hfj5f3KNfEeVVy3dDco_hX2oNfiH6en6csN7qdhzpMJxrAewZF7pfene91QB49hebufhflN9OUPSb873PrWTM3l4j0o__gY0weTDuzsMcaodQH27R7sCId4Dwysngxnmwwaozb8g/s320/IMG_20111007_175333.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The only other thing that is moving in is my sewing machine. It isn't actually <em>MY</em> sewing machine yet, as I have not made anything with it yet. I sold mine last summer in anticipation of moving and with the intention of buying a new one when I needed it. This summer I picked one up at a sale for $5 and we will give it a try. Coming soon (by Friday? I hope) are 2 Halloween costumes and next week I will have kitchen curtains with the possibility of some modified t-shirts inspired by Pinterest. Goodbye, dining room table. </span>Sarityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03189923303845369705noreply@blogger.com0