2011

Happy New Year!

I would have to read the archives to remember most of 2011.  If I'm correct, it was a lot of smooth sailing - not much craziness.  If my resolution last New Years was to live more simply, I think I'm getting closer.  I was steered towards soccer by friends, and I am grateful to those peeps.  I made myself a promise that I would knit twelve Elizabeth Zimmerman patterns, and I did cast on twelve; however, three have yet to be finished.  I'd say that wasn't horribly bad.  I didn't add too much yarn to the stash.  I was somewhat controlled.   I learned a lot about photography.   I got more involved with my community at public discussions, and I consider myself a heck of a lot more engaged.  I renegotiated our mortgage.   I connected with friends and family.  I started volunteering again after a bit of a hiatus.  I put my foot down and stood by my opinions.  I picked up my tennis racket again after two decades.   I went to some rockin' concerts.  I did not see any rattlesnakes or bears.  And it was all good.  I'm happy.  My family is healthy.  They have clothes, food and shelter.  They are loved.  I have everything I need and, more importantly, want.

I made my resolution back in November, and it's not really something I can conquer in one year, maybe never.  I'm going to be part of building a caring community.  I think Starship said it best.   They also built this city on rock and roll.  They were so ahead of their time.

And thanks, Kat, for reminding us that we didn't have to take our clothes off to have a good time!  Oh no.

N

Gratitude

The Bee's class is studying Remembrance this month, and each of the students must choose an aspect of war to present to the class.   Armed with a couple of images, she has to rattle off a paragraph or two.  I gently steered her towards Children and the War Effort.  I was trying to keep it light, but how do you make anything war-related pleasant?   I guess that's the point.  We've talked about how many people lost their loved ones, how many people were hurt, and how scary it was.   We've talked about freedom and protecting our rights.  I'm surprised at how much she understands at the age of 8. 

I will be spending some time today thinking of courage, remembrance, heroes, self-sacrifice and freedom.  I believe it's important.

N

Acts of Kindness

For the second year in a row, my city has challenged itself to perform a great number of acts of kindness in the month of October.  For the second year in a row, my organization for which I work is participating.  In fact, I am on the Kindness Committee.  Think of me as a Kindness Leader.  Without the shiny cape.  A very simple project that we are doing (and anyone can do this!) is keeping a Kindness journal in our staff room.  Each morning I pop into the staff room, and I jot one kind act that I performed the day before.  It only takes a minute or two, and I am back on my way to my desk.  While eating my lunch, I read about all the acts that my co-workers are doing.  I know I work with some great people, but this project really makes them shine!  Today the Kindness journal pen dried up.  I had a real situation on my hands, but thankfully I managed to scrounge up an old green Holiday Inn pen off the receptionist's desk.  It felt oddly unkind to be stealing a pen, but tomorrow I plan to return her 'stylo' and replace it with some new pens I ordered.  I'm coo' like that.

But that's not all we're doing.  I contacted the Boys and Girls Club, and I asked if we could be another drop-off point for children's winter coats and accessories for the Koats for Kids program.  I've already cleaned out our closets and winter hat/mitten/scarf stashes, and I've filled up two boxes!  This is another easy and rewarding act that anyone can do.  At the end of the month, I'll drive all the stuff we collected down the street to the Boys and Girls Club.  Easy peasy.

The neat thing about being kind is it's what you're doing already.  So far it hasn't cost me a dime, maybe a few minutes here and there, and the rewards are karmic. :)   If you're a Londoner, go and register!  It's not too late.  And if you're not local, do some random acts of kindness.  Pay it forward.

Cheers!
N

EZ #9

I started this spiral hat on what would have been EZ's 100th birthday  (8.9.10), went to work, and finished it by bedtime.  The next day I started another, and again, I finished it before bedtime.  Then I did it all over on the third day.  Now I have three, and I'm still itching to cast on another 10.   The best part is that the girls love them.  Success!   I think I have my go-to for gift knitting this winter.  Thanks again, EZ.

Cheers!
N

In Today's Mail

Dear T,

I found myself in a kitchen wares store the other day.  I hadn't been there in years, and when I first walked in, I couldn't think of one thing I needed in that store.  After a complete walk-through of the store, I settled my eyes on a wall of stainless steel pots, and after deciding on one and nearly calling it a day, I hollered over to the salesperson, "Would you happen to have any pizza stones???"  I have no idea what made me think of a pizza stone at that very moment as I have never seriously considered buying one until months ago when you recommended Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day, but you also noted that I would definitely require a pizza stone.  But I didn't have the book, and I really think in these cases that the book needs to come before the stone.  However, the store had a pizza stone, and I threw the pot back on the shelf, and I bought that pizza stone.  And it's a very good thing that I did!

Thank you SO much for the book and the fabric and the skirt pattern (I will make oodles of them!), and most of all, thank you so mother flippin' much for the crocheted acorn basket!   Honestly,  I think I screamed when I opened the box.  Well, and there was the unicorn card!  I'm still not sure how that one got past me.  You've been holding on to that one for a while.  I'm impressed.  And humbled.  You did good.

How'm I supposed to top that?

N

Beautiful Blogger Award

Robyn of the beautiful Knit & Purl Mama blog and owner of Robyn's Nest (go treat yourself to some yarn!)  has given us an award on her blog.  Merci beaucoup!  We are blushing with delight.

To accept this award, here are the rules: 

• Thank the person who gave you the award
• Paste the award on your blog
• Link to the person who nominated you
• Tell 7 interesting things about yourself (see below)
• Nominate 7 blogs and post links
• Leave a comment on your nominated blogs to let them know (I'm kind of chicken about doing this. It's kind of like calling someone up and saying your name, and the person asking, "WHO?"  It makes me really self conscious in the worst way.  So I'll just leave this part to the fates.  Seriously.  See interesting fact #6.)

Seven things about us that you might find interesting:

 

:: We LOVE Hawksley Workman.  He sang to us at the Aeolian Hall late into the night once, and we fell head over heels.

:: We love grammar and language in the most ridiculous way.

:: We used to work at the same organization except I worked upstairs, and T worked downstairs.  We weren't supposed to chat during work hours, so we emailed each other a lot.  To this day, not a working day goes by when we don't email.  So when T moved a million miles away, it's like she's still downstairs, and I'm upstairs.

:: We don't plan our posts at all.  There have been a few times when we literally post within minutes of each other.  It gives me goosebumps 'cause I'm pretty sure she yells out, "TWINS!!!" really loudly at the same time I do.

:: We can eat a lot of meat.  Plates and bowls of meat.  Don't believe me? Please see photographic evidence.

:: We could happily live like hermits and eat hermit cookies.

:: We can both speak, read, and write French.  Alas, I do concur that her French is better than mine.

  

In no particular order, we would like to declare the following blogs as full of beauty -  tollipop, inspired I am, resurrection fern,  kindred crafters, bluebirdbaby, waking up in bavaria, and knitting like it's my job.


N

The Perimeter

While we waited for the roast to cook, my dad took us for a walk around "The Perimeter". My mum made El wear a pair of her runners instead of her flippy floppies (we can't stop saying flippy floppies, and we blame The Lonely Island). Good thing though. I could have sworn that the guy was cutting a trail as we walked, but I have no proof as I was way behind. We even staged a couple of full family shots using my knits to prop up our cameras while my dad muttered, "Mental note. Tripod. Christmas." But it worked, and my sister and I got some excellent shots. And when we returned back to the house, my sweet nephew climbed a cement pillar and chuffed all over the garden. The little guy was alright and smiling ear-to-ear. He's just a puker, that's all. I asked him if he knew it was coming, and he nodded and noted that he was just waiting until he was high enough. Fun times all around. I laughed until I had tears running down my cheeks. People say I'm entertaining, but I ain't got nothing on these people.

N

Happy Thanksgiving

Today I'm thankful for a healthy family, a good job, a cozy house, lots of friends, and a giant container of delicious turkey leftovers. A hot cup of coffee and my knitting ain't a bad deal either. : )

N

A Cowl, Acorns and Applesauce

The Bee and I made some applesauce the other day with a handful of apples, some water, sugar and cinnamon, and it turned out awesome. I think this is one of those things that you just make up as you go along, and everything is sure to be okay.

We've been collecting acorn hats to eventually quench our thirst for felted acorns. I'll let you know how that goes. Eventually.

And Lauren was right. That cashmere was perfect for a Purl Cashmere Cowl. It was simply endless 1x1 ribbing until I used every inch of it up. The Bee would like to think it's hers, but I am only prepared to share it at this point.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

N

PS. The turkey is in the oven stuffed with stuffing. Mmmm-mmm-mmmm . . .

Slowly Waking Up

I forgot that I hadn't shown you proof that the sweater is being worn - here it is. The front looks the same as the back. I am a horrible model - as soon as the camera clicks, my face contorts into awkward grimaces and weird jerks. Seriously, I think I make normal faces most of the time. Cameras freak me out. Well, when they're pointed at me. I am a zillion times more comfortable being behind the camera. Regardless, the sweater is finished, and I learned many things - proper seaming techniques and drop-down shoulders are not flattering. Did everyone else know this? I will never knit me a drop-down shoulder sweater again. I look like a quarterback.

Enough about that, I have to hunt down a turkey - preferably a fresh kill since I haven't the time to thaw a frozen one since we would like to eat the bird tomorrow night. This all crept on me a little too quickly when I was reading the Bee's Thanksgiving wish, and all the kid wants is turkey. She's a turkey monster. I thought it sweet until ten minutes later while reading an email from my dad in which he mentioned that my pies would nicely complement my mum's roast beef. EEK!! So off to the market, I must go and find a small-ish turkey to feed just the four of us. This will also be my first time cooking a turkey. I've got Donna Hay beside me to help. I can not go wrong.

Happy Saturday!

N

Retreat

Back from a relaxing one-night retreat by the beach with friends. That was very nice.

N

Inkberry Blue

Thanks to the world of blogs, I have met some of the most wonderful peeps from all over. Fiona of Inkberry Blue is seriously halfway around the globe, but I happened upon her blog ages ago, and I was mesmerized by one of her watercolour paintings. Today I got three of her prints in the mail along with a crocheted washcloth, homemade soap, and a 'bless' stone! Anyone who knows me and has been to my house knows that these prints scream ME. Really. They couldn't be more perfect. I have to whip down to IKEA and pick up three frames (and a 2009 catalogue), and hang them up prominently in my living room for all to see as soon as they walk in the door. And if they miss them, people will be stopped and lectured. Just saying.

Thank you, Fiona, for the lovely package. I feel as if I need to send you my first-born in return. :) Just say the word!

N

The Heart is a Bloom

Caught these doves in the backyard. I've never seen doves in our backyard. How sweet!
I must thank Mr. J for keeping on top of the bird feeders this summer. Maybe a knitted wool sweater done before it gets chilly will be enough.

Yesterday I came back from a meeting to find my lunch bag on my desk. I had forgotten it at home, and he dropped it off before I even remembered. He was on his way to take the littlest to a park for a bbq and go-karts and swimming. I suddenly didn't mind taking the bus home, so he could take the car to work. I really didn't mind in the first place 'cause he does it for me all the time. But it made me feel better that I could do the same for him.

We don't make such a bad team.

N

Definition of VonTrapping

Dresses made from old pillowcases . . .

Skirts made from old curtains . . .

A Sunday spent yodelling with my sister . . .

Thanks for all the zany birthday greetings. I had a wonderful day yesterday - I beat the 6-year old at Scrabble Jr. and ate a big bowl of ice cream, and I truly believe that every day should have a little Hoff. I can't look at him without smiling. :)

N

Flowers for Me?

Two - one planted and one cut - flower arrangements arrived on my desk this week in appreciation of my administrative support and skills. Aw, shucks. I inevitably locked my eyes with my feet, my cheeks went bright red, and I mumbled my thanks. Then I immediately brought them home and placed them on the mantle for only my viewing pleasure from the white couch. The girls were flabbergasted that other people like me. It's not THAT impossible.

N

NOTE: These pictures were taken three days ago, and I have since then managed to over-water the tulips. They may be 'did'. I want to see the colonel. He's 'did'. This is only funny to my children.

Hope

A few months back, I cried and cried tears of happiness when Obama was elected President. I can't remember if I shared that, but I did. I stayed up way past my bedtime, and I sat cross-legged on the bed with my eyes glued to the little tv set, and I prayed and prayed that Obama would get just enough votes to win. With absolute relief, I wept more than I thought possible. It was as if my life had depended on it. My lord, I'm not even American. The next day, I skipped to work with a perma-grin.

Today I relived that high. I celebrated with a latte and hugs. My hands shook. I had to take a deep breath and focus. Good does triumph. I was reminded of the people that paved the way to today, and it made me sad that they weren't with me to rejoice. And I remembered the timbit that made headlines, and how powerful one voice can be. Speak up and you will be lifted. But oh how scary speaking up can be. My nerves have been slightly frayed for some time now. But today, there is light and so much flippin' hope that it's spilling all over. I know it's all a bit hieroglyphic, but I just wanted to express that today was good, and it was good because instead of complaining and allowing myself to be treated with disrespect, I did something. Good people did something. Clouds have been lifted!! My heart is dancing like Elaine. It truly is. Sigh. A round of hugs on me!

N

Gosh!

We got ourselves declared 'Kreativ' Bloggers! Colour us flattered! Thanks, Isa!

1. The winner must copy this Award to their own blog.
2. Link to the blog from whence you received the Award.
3. Nominate a minimum of 7 other bloggers.
4. Link to the nominated on your blog.
5. Leave comment about the award on the nominated blogs.

All I can think of is all that linking that must be linked, and all those comments that must be commented. How 'bout if you see your blog listed below, feel free to do 1 through 5 if you wish. I've got cookies burning in the oven and bedtime routines to enforce. Side note: I am so lazy that rather than putting on my coat and walking the two blocks to the store to buy cookies, I baked them. You've probably cocked your head to one side and scrunched up your face like something's stinky. I'm saying I don't have the energy to leave the house once I am home from work, so I would bake for hours if it meant that I didn't have to go out. It doesn't make sense to me either.

In the time I typed up all that nonsense, I could have left seven comments. Okay let's do this. T - if you agree with these choices, simply respond with a 'ditto'. You can get the next award honours 'cause it's inevitable that we'll get another. We're THAT good.

In no particular order, I bless these blogs with an esteemed 'Kreativ' Blogger Award:

• Katherine of Fuzzy Love - she's our craft sister, another transplanted Canadian, and the sweetest person ever. She's super smart too. One day we're going to have a bird collection contest. As soon as we get some free time! And honestly, if we were to put this list in order, she would be tops regardless.

• Danny Seo of Daily Danny - this kid kicks it. Most of his ideas are simple and low-cost and green of course. I call him 'the kid'. He became famous as a teenager when he advocated green living, and he has written great green design books. I borrow them from the library all the time. The kid isn't making a dime off of me, but I think he would be satisfied that borrowing is a greener option. You should make him part of your regular reading because he posts every day with beautiful pictures, great design tips, green product reviews, and lots of contests. I mention the contests because your chances are good that you might win because he doesn't have a ton of readers. Just saying.

• Rachel of Cultivating Rachel - she's been missing for a while, but she's back! And that just makes us happy!

• Jennfier of Write Start - I've just got hooked onto her blog, and so far it's been about little kids writing, but it's certainly creative, and I love the images. It's timely for me with the littlest learning how to read, and the oldest is a writing machine.

• Danielle of Sheep Geek - Danielle can knit ANYTHING and make it look wispy and effortless. She is the genius behind World Wide Knit in Public Day. I just drool over her projects.

• Ellen of elanknits - She's the wondermum that I wish I was, and she knits the coolest skullies! This lady is a local legend. Go to any crafty festival or show or what have you, and everyone knows her, and it's very likely that she has some items on display. She's a legend at my workplace - they made an award because of her exemplary volunteer work. Her attendance at knitting gatherings around town is spotty 'cause she's so flippin' involved in her boys' lives, yet she still practically gets a standing ovation when she makes her entrance. I always feel like shouting Bravo!

• Erin of Bluebirdbaby - I just love looking at her photos. She can make anything look absolutely beautiful, so I go there for a dose of pretty.

Good God. That's seven for you. That was certainly a feat. Looks good on all of you. I'm whipped. Must go hide the burnt chocolate chip cookies or else I won't have any left for the lunchboxes tomorrow.

As you were,

N

PS. Blogger, you suck at spacing. Why must my post look all wonky?

Craft Dinner

It’s been a thrilling week for us Balkan Style bloggers! We’ve never had so many sweet comments. It’s been fun reading your blogaversary wishes and meeting many of you through your blogs. Personally, my bloglines subscription just got longer. Oh dear. And we submitted our Newfie Mitten pattern to the Knitting Pattern Central website, and we’ve had a tonne of visitors. Welcome! Please stay and hang out a while longer. We promise to entertain. Really. I’ll make up stuff if I have to.

Where should I start? Oh yis – the chowdah.

I’ve been on a potato corn chowder kick lately, and thankfully my little family minus the littlest has come along for the ride quite willingly. There’s no cooking fancy for the littlest – she’s an Easy Mac kind of girl. I am certain that one day, she will expand her food preferences, but it will have to go down in history that for her sixth year, she subsisted purely on cheesy noodles zapped in the microwave. But for the rest of us that need a little variety, I have been testing out new dishes, and my favourite is by far is this potato corn chowder. Done in under half an hour and paired up with a crusty whole wheat loaf, our appetites are satisfied. I recommend adding some chopped celery in with the onions.

I’ve also recently been blessed with a throat infection for which there is no cause for concern. I managed to be one step ahead of it getting nasty by heel and toeing it to the walk-in clinic yesterday and sweet-talking the physician to prescribe me ten-days worth of amoxicillin. With three doses a day, I’ll barely feel a thing. In fact, I feel pretty well for being infectious. I managed to knit a few more pattern repeats on a second monkey sock and a couple more inches on a second cobblestone sleeve. I also baked a super moist chocolatey mocha snacking cake ‘cause I have found food being shovelled down my throat quite soothing. Guacamole too. In between knitting and eating, I swept and washed the floors. Not bad for a sick day.

And in amongst my holds from the library, I snagged an illustrated copy of Anne of Green Gables in the hopes that a second attempt might entice B to listen more if there were a few pictures on which to focus. The verdict? She was sawing logs by the second page. I kept reading. Tonight, we’ll tackle Chapter Two: Matthew Cuthbert is Surprised. Again. Maybe a better plan would be to just place a hold on the movie.

N

Little Extravagances

:: tea parties

:: reading this book

:: reclaiming the space previously taken up with a tree and all the trimmings

:: eating leftovers

:: watching Prince Caspian over and over

:: knitting at a non-hectic and non-panicky pace

:: laundering the bedding properly

:: family in good health despite the germy atmosphere pre-Noel

:: Sequence




I hope everyone is snuggled in and finding time for the fun little extravagances, whatever they may be.

N

A Special Announcement

I used the Dice Roller since there were six entrants in our big give, and a four was rolled. That means that Kathryn won! She suggested:

I think the blog at sewmamasew is doing their month of gift thing again this year. There were so many great ideas last year. http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/

I had forgotten about the Sew Mama Sew month of gifts in December! Kathryn, please email me at corazenia(at)hotmail(dot).com with your address, and I will get that Gratitude Wrap out to you pronto!

Here's an oldie that I found on my computer at work. You gots to love a little wizard-y witch and her sidekick Tigger. Happy Halloween, everyone!

N