me, Mavis

A Rainy Day with My Main Squeeze

2006-10-18T19:52:00.000-04:00

With the shop closed yesterday, my current real estate deal simmering along nicely, and lots of rain and chill, I settled into my favorite sweatpants and big teeshirt for some crappy daytime television and serious knitting.

Beau had other ideas for me, Mavis:

I know the focus is like looking through vaseline, but really, doesn't his Cute just overshadow all odds?

P.S. -- That crumbled blue heap in the foreground is my Yankee Knitter Aran pullover. Yes, I've been "working" on this for more than a year now, but I think I'm in the homestretch!

"Doggie Bag" becomes a Sweet Purse

2006-10-14T09:41:00.000-04:00

I was able to spend a little time at my sewing machine this morning in order to make up a lining for a knit project that I finished a few weeks ago. This is the inside of the bag:

The fabric is from my stash and of unknown origin ... but it's a soft flannel and cute print which I think looks very good with the yarn. Here's the outside:

The yarn is a really great beaded cotton and rayon that I bought on impulse a year or so ago.

I found the pattern by chance a while back, as a freebie by a nice blogger. It was designed as a dog poop bag (how chic!) but I thought is would make a nice small handbag. You can find the pattern here.

Infested!

2006-10-12T16:55:00.000-04:00

We came back with a few stow-aways from our trip . . .

This little rat and 5 of his best friends have made themselves cozy in our front room among the Halloween earrings and pins.

Off on an Adventure!

2006-10-10T07:32:00.000-04:00

It promises to be a beautiful Fall day here in my MerryLand! The DH and I will be heading out shortly for a leisurely day of adventure in one of our favorite close-by towns, Fredericksburg. We'll be looking through the shops with different eyes today ... hoping to find some new stuff for our own shop. So, I guess this isn't totally a laid-back trip; we are also hunting for the business.

Which, by the way, is really kicking my butt.

Yes, I love it ... searching out the new products ... researching the stuff we know nothing about ... finding creative display ideas ... meeting the new customers and those that haven't visited the shop for eons (or at least before we took over) and then hearing their very positive comments ... it's all good.

On the other hand ... I'm doing little else. No blogging, minimal home maintenance, barely keeping up with my family and friends.

Did I mention knitting?

Okay, I know this is typical with a new business start-up, so I will try to remain positive. I'll get those damn dust bunnies soon!

School Daze?

2006-08-17T12:13:00.000-04:00

They grow up so quickly don't they? Here's my darling nephew, JayBird, heading off for his first semester at Texas State University, "school supplies" in hand!

Notice also the Baltimore Orioles shirt --- I'm choosing to think of that as a SHOUT OUT to his dear ole Aunt me, Mavis.

Love you Bird --- wish you were headed up here for school.

Knitting Knews

2006-08-16T12:38:00.000-04:00

Back in early July, I had a conversation with one of my real estate colleagues and told her about our plans for opening the new shop. She was visibly shaken that I would even consider a willing clip-of-the-wings-of-freedom and a sentence to long hours within four walls. (yes, indeed, I was sorry to have shared with her ...)

However, after seeing my stricken look, she quickly tried for the positive ...

"At least you'll get lots of knitting done!"

Not.

As you know from my last long-ago post, we are pretty darn busy. Once I get home, there's always lots of home chores which I usually ignore in favor of Wine and Couch.

Okay, it's not really all that bad, but I am decidedly NOT happily clicking through row after row. I am , however, making some progress.

I did finish a second panel of Mark's UT Afghan and sewed the two together:

It's nice and squishy with the cabling on the orange panel and the blackberry stitch on the white but I find that I'm not too comfortable with the cheap ... I mean, inexpensive, tougher-than-iron, acrylic. Maybe I'm getting somewhat fiber snobbish? HAH! Wouldn't the non-vegan knitters have a great hoot at that!

I also finally finished the first of the "Ribbed Fixation Socks" that I copied after Vegan Knitting (and then some) many months ago.

I really like the stretchy fit and the length of the leg, and most of all, that nice thick slip stitch heel.

I like it so much so that I might even eventually finish the second sock! (which I did start last night, thank you very much).

In a weird coincidence, just now Beau dug out a long-forgotten toy -- a teensy mouse knit during the last unfinished sock project. I deemed that sock pretty but not comfortable and banished it off to the great race of single socks.

You don't think my boy was making a wise-assed comment, do you?

Coming Up for Air

2006-08-03T13:20:00.000-04:00

Hey out there in Blogland! Is anyone still reading? I was finally brought back to my senses (and my blog) with a phone message from my dear friend, GG, asking what was I up to since she couldn't find out from the blog. Ouch! This is from someone who only grudgingly acknowledges the blogosphere.

Thanks so much to all of you (especially my Vegan Knitter Sistahs) who have left me comments over the past month while I was away (but not gone) on a business-imposed hiatus. I have been able to keep a loose check on you guys from time to time, but doing my own posting just couldn't happen.

But things have started to even out ...

So here's what happened:

In early June, a property owner couple in our little MerryLand town approached us with an opportunity. They own a glorious old building that has housed antiques shops for 30 years or so and the most recent managers had suddenly and with little notice, decided to clear out. The owners also knew that we (more particularly, The DH) had an unsatisfied yearning to be a shopkeeper.

At first we said !Yes!

Then we thought of all the work ... and what would we stock? ... and how would we continue our current businesses until we get under way? ... and what if we failed and disappointed this wonderful couple who are also our dear friends?

So we said "no."

And then we started getting incredible emotional support and promises of cool stuff from our Artsy Friends. So that meant that we'd have a start on what to stock.

And we started getting excited about "playing store" so that kind of made us pooh-pooh all the worry about the amount of work to be done.

And then our dear friends, the property owners, told us again how much they wanted us to try it, and how they were sure we could make a great shop, and so forth.

So again, we says "yes!"

And then it was July 1 and we took access to the building. After 18 days of very long hours, missed meals, 29 gallons of paint inside (which we applied), over 100 gallons of paint outside (which we supervised), a few gentle arguments, more than a few headaches, etc., we officially opened our doors on Wednesday, July 19 at 11 a.m.

Here's our porch entry from the front sidewalk:

We manage the left half of a great big old building (our half: circa 1914). We also have a back entry, soon opening into a cute little coffee shop which will be owned and managed by our back-yard neighbors and pals, James and Gretchen.

We have filled 3 rooms with our stuff and consignment stuff from our artists:

Downstairs in the front ("living") room where I can look at it constantly, we have John's wonderful Raku pottery:

In the "dining room", the architectural salvage area has a wide range of stuff, from 8-foot tall full columns and tin ceiling panels:

... to ornamental doorknobs, hinges, corbels, and more:

Upstairs, the "Chimney Room" is a tucked-away, cozy space that houses a variety of things, including Harold's funky kinetic sculptures:

... and Mitzi's handpainted silk scarves, pillows, and greeting cards.

Two antiques dealers rent space upstairs, as do importers of Polish Pottery. Joanie's little "sewing room" is my favorite of the renters:

We also have original watercolors, graphite drawings, and photography (some of it computer-manipulated), and a line of gourmet jellies, jams, mustards, dressings, etc. from a local maker.

Still to come: a line of soaps and lotions (which I have almost decided on). We're happy to accept ideas on unique items, whether local to MerryLand or not. Keep it in mind!

So, this has been a big change of pace for me and the DH, but we are diggin it so far.

But, I haven't knit in weeks.

and I miss my blog too.

Monkeys

2006-07-05T07:16:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday from an out-of-touch me, Mavis. I've emerged from the unknown to show what came in the mail. Inspector Beau checks first:
WOW! My very first blog prize! Last week (I think?) the always-entertaining Obstiknit Vegan issued the call to all prize seekers. With all the hubbub here, I completely forgot about it until the plump envelope came in the mail.

I have a bit of a soft spot for the Obstiknit Vegan because 1) she went through some yucky dental stuff and was wildly freaked-out about it -- which, of course, I can completely understand. Yes, I felt her pain. In fact, still do (but the ortho is coming along nicely, thank you very much).

Secondly, during the bad dental stuff, she was carefully and closely tended by her main squeeze. Please correct me if I got it wrong, Obstiknit, but I remember referring to him as your "Hero" in the comments and from then on it stuck.

So, this is why my prize is so very important. Here's another shot:
BTW, do you have any idea how hard it is to gauge where to point the camera for a shot like this?

So what is all this hubbub that keeps me away these days? What's that monkey on the ladder doing. We're opening a store!

Mimosas

2006-06-28T09:18:00.000-04:00

The Mimosa trees are blooming here in my little part of MerryLand.

Last week I noticed the very first blooms of what has become a most controversial tree -- the Mimosa. One of my favorite web sites, Dave's Garden will tell you all about the plant itself if you're interested in it from a gardening perspective.

For my purposes, however, the brilliant pink blooms bought back a huge flood of childhood memories ... making me all misty and stuff.

When I was only maybe 5 or 6, my next older brother (who would have been 7 or 8), took possession and sole residence of a beautiful wide-spreading Mimosa in our backyard. It seemed huge to me at the time, but in retrospect I'm thinking it must have been no more than 15 feet tall with a similar spread.

My brother Bob was a tough, rugged, stereotypical 1960's All Boy. Those Mimosa blooms brought his image right back so clearly. I can see him perched up in that tree, all sun-browned and sturdy, one leg dangling lazily; probably wearing army combat gear. He hung out in that tree like he was made to fit it.

Once he tied up a big bundle of old rags and hung it from his Mimosa to make a "Buckin' Bronco." I vaguely remember agreeing to get on the thing, but I was pretty much a Girl and I'm sure I didn't last long. I do remember him getting on it, kicking out his legs and pulling hard with his arms to make the Bronco jump and buck while he hollered and yelped like a true cowboy.

Later, my Mom the Gardener had a big problem with the Mimosa. Apparently bag worms of some sort took up residence and she would have no mercy. Yes, she was brutal and cut that tree down completely.

Which brings us to the "misty" part of the story ... where my memory is equally clear to the vision of my poor brother sobbing over the loss of His Mimosa.

I know that he found other natural, creative outlets -- probably by the end of that day -- but for that brief moment when the tree was murdered, I'm sure he felt a total unrecoverable loss. I know that my memory brings up a huge rock of anguish in the pit of my stomach for the little boy and his private world of imagination.

Ah, it's a sap that I am as I must stop here now to dry my eyes.

Aran Rose is Done!

2006-06-25T17:41:00.000-04:00

The long-awaited day is here. (Actually it was here Friday night but I didn't want to get out of bed a/k/a "my knitting lounge" to take a photo).

My "Aran Rose" pullover is officially DONE DONE DONE!! (you can click photos for BIG!)

Truly, this photo wasn't even really worth the wait but it's all I have right now. It's raining big ole buckets full here in MerryLand and the lighting is awful bad. Soon I will put Aran Rose on the mannequin for a real shot. (Apologies to GG, my photographer, for she did jump right in with no advance warning ... and she was under the influence of Sangria after all -- but GG, don't quit your day job!).

It was appropriate that GG should take the photo and here's why. As I was seaming along, I was getting a bit nervous. "Crapola," I was thinking, "this baby looks teensy tiny ... and DAMNATION this one will probably not fit either!" (refer back to the drat Becky project). Since I wanted to be prepared for the horrible eventuality of another loss, I began thinking of a potential fit. "AHA!" I said, "our GG is a perfectly tiny waif of a thing!" Alas, Fortuna was on my side and I didn't need to go looking for a recipient again so soon. Despite my fear, the Calmer yarn streteches beautifully - particularly in this seed stitch -- and I love the fit. It's way too hot now to wear it for any longer than enough for one photo, but I'll be ready for cool fall evenings.

Before the big rain started, the DH and I hit a few yard sales yesterday morning. My highlight was a vintage sewing/knitting basket, filled with a nice haul:

Wally poses while admiring the vintage 60s(?) fabric.

Beau checks out the bonus haul: 5 pair straight needles, 1 set DPNs, 1 circ, 3 stitch holders, 1 tiny box of stitch markers, 1 cool row counter with built-in measuring tape, and 1 pattern book by Reynolds "International Cables". me, Mavis LOVES cables ... and my favorites in this book are Rotterdam and Utrecht.

What a great deal for two dollars!

Last, for our dear pal at Vegan Knitting, who left a very nice comment about The Felines, one more cat picture. My Isa is such a lady, no?

A Whole Lot of Nothing to Say

2006-06-22T10:21:00.000-04:00

It's me, Mavis ... and it has been 7 days since my last post.

I have cleaned and refilled the birdbaths at least 5 times.

I have cleaned and refilled various hummingbird feeders at least 6 times.

I have worked on Aran Rose, finally finishing the second sleeve, sewing the shoulder seams and setting in both sleeves.

I have visited my not-so-local yarn shop and purchased a very cute baby vest pattern and appropriate neat-colored yarn.

I have moved out most of my houseplants for the summer ... and picked them back up after squirrel knock-overs.

I dog-sat for Arbor and Mandi while their peeps went away to a funeral.

I visited all my favorite blogs regularly, though I seldom commented and ignored my own blog.

I visited Muggie the Periodontist and resident hygenist, Gwen, for my regular 3-month cleaning and received the awesome news that he is nearly 100% sure that the grafting was successful on my front tooth and it will have a full recovery.

I took a nice day-trip to the beach with DH and we shared a huge bucket of Thrasher's fries with extra vinegar and salt like we always do.

I worried constantly about my future -- financial and otherwise -- as I concurrently jumped headfirst into a(nother) new venture.

I continued slugging on in "normal" fashion, each day unpatterned and mostly unscheduled, always wondering if this is okay.

A Spanglish Lesson

2006-06-13T07:01:00.000-04:00

Next door to Chez Schavis lives a cute little 7-year-old guy called "Junior". His parents are native to the Dominican Republic and their first language is Spanish. Mom speaks only a teensy bit of English, but Dad and two older girls are beautifully bi-lingual. Dad INSISTS that Junior speak only Spanish at home, and he fusses at the girls if they chatter to him in English. I think Dad is a very smart guy to make sure that little Junior doesn't lose his hold on having ease with both languages.

me, Mavis studied Spanish in college -- and did quite well, thank you -- but testing well on that particular grammar usage does not mean one will hold up conversationally. So, I sometimes try to resurrect my very limited knowledge when Junior wanders over to help me in the garden.

During our last chat, we somehow got on the subject of dogs. Junior told me that he and his father are both allergic to dogs. This was a surprise as I remember him playing with my Ma's "Ami" for hours during a visit several years ago, and I remembered that his uncle has also visited here with his Golden Retriever. So, I questioned ....

me: Really? Gosh, what about your Uncle Juan? (spoken in my lame accent as "Wan")

Junior: Who?

me: You know, your Dad's sister's husband ... they watched your house when you went to the DR a few years ago ... they have a big golden dog?

Junior: Who?

me: "Wan", Junior ... your Uncle!? Remember, he comes to visit with the big golden dog!?!

Junior: OH! You mean Juan (spoken in lovely Spanish accent "Hu-an")

me: YES! "Wan" -- what about his dog? I didn't think you were allergic to that dog?

Junior: No. I'm only allergic to dogs that haven't had their shots.

Maybe Dad is smart in another way too.

Beau thinks dogs are too loud for good sleeping.

Wally would rather play with his scratching pad than even think about dogs.

DH and 'Bella only have eyes for each other.

Kittenbirds and my Favorite Townfolk

2006-06-09T08:52:00.000-04:00

Two days ago, we noticed the resident Catbirds doing alot of fussing. Upon investigation, I found the reason for the squawking ....

"Kittenbirds!"

So for the past two days, these babes have flopped around -- hopping across the lawn, back up into the shrub -- hither and yon -- as the parents squawk and I rush outside to chase off cats and sometimes lift the youngster back into the shrub, even though I get divebombed and fussed at for my kindness.

They are plump-bodied, skinny-legged, beady-eyed little marvels! I enjoy them so, but it is with a huge dose of fear that they won't get those wings working quick enough.

They are stationed mostly in a big Pussy Willow, just outside our (screened) cat porch -- appropriate! Not only am I closely watching, but Beau, Bella and Wally keep their eyes peeled too -- albeit for a different desire.

There's also a nectar feeder on the porch column nearby and the Hummingbirds have suddenly become very active. They zoom around after each other, dashing through the shrub at top speed, but seemingly oblivious to the "Kittenbirds."

I will miss them, but will be relieved when they finally fly off.

Earlier this week, I spent a day with Schavis on a project for my favorite neighbors across the bridge. FFF is a delightful fellow, full of historic stories about our town and always with a quick smile. The DH considers him a model and hopes to follow his path of working and investing right here in our community.

I think he's a good act to follow.

My Texas Visit

2006-06-08T15:36:00.000-04:00

I've been back from my little jaunt to Texas for almost a week, but I'm still disorganized and confused. Yes, I know I'm like this most of the time anyway ... Why blame it on the trip? Nevertheless, here I find myself in the middle of several projects and stuff scattered everywhere.

This morning I coped by working in the garden.

This afternoon I shall cope by .... BLOGGING!

My visit with the Texans was terrific. I had lots of time to talk with Bro Joe; we played several unruly Spades games; I visited Patti's groovy pad with the Party Patio; I stayed up until the wee hours of morning acting as a helper at the After Graduation party (UGH! it was tough!); and of course, I watched with great pride (and shed a little tear or two) as The JayBird graduated from high school.

Look at that beautiful family, will you? The only thing needed to make it perfect is #1 son, Brian, who is off on his Big Adventure known as Navy Basic Training. He was surely missed.

It's not just my biased opinion, is it? Aren't these guys modeling material! Here's what The Hens had to say about JayBird and Markasaurus:

You've got some FINE looking nephews. Any of them want to move to Maryland?

and

They are way fine.

Opinion confirmed.

Another highlight was the chance to meet Jay's Gal Pal, the very lovely Casey.

I have been a fan of this bold gal even before I met her. Last fall, she decided her date for the dance MUST be JayBird -- but they hardly knew each other at all. Sooooo, she made up a gigantic sign --- at least 12 feet long -- asking him to the dance and attached it to the fence outside of the gym just before a basketball game that The Bird was sure to attend.

Then she posted herself way up in the stands, amongst all her girlfriends and waited. Jay was oblivious of the sign until a friend pointed it out, but it certainly then got his attention and he made his way up to the Waiting Spider and her cohorts to graciously accept.

Don't they make a gorgeous couple?

She was equally gutsy during her first Lithuanian Spades Game. We tried to go a little gently at first, but she hopped right in there and took us all down. Thanks for playing along, Casey! I dig your style.

Green is made for Irish Lasses!

2006-05-23T19:27:00.001-04:00

Remember a while back when I was going on about how clever I was to have finished that "Becky" top? Yep, I was all pumped up about my knitting and finishing prowess.

But, the top looked like crapola on me ... shoulders falling off my wimpy shoulders ... neckline too low ... the color? Oh it was not too pretty on me, Mavis.

So, I finally broke down and decided it should go to a better place. Like a revelation, I thought of pal, Gretchen! Duh, she lives less than 100 yards from me and I see her all the time, but it took a while to put two and two together.

So, I offered what is now taking on the personality (from my description) of a Very Vile Garment. Gretch is a very positive gal. Not only did she take it, but looky here:
Don't she look too cute?? Huh, huh?? She paired it with a black cami and capris along with sleek black toe-loop sandals -- PERFECT! I'll bet those little third grade boys she hangs with every day got their crushes all worked up on this.

Girls' Day with Heather

2006-05-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

What a lovely day we had, me and my pal Heather.

We started by unloading a Subaru full of plants, from my garden to hers. (I had not counted the pots during loading, but I hear today that she transplanted 17 yesterday and has 7 more to go. Granted, some were tiny-barely more-than-seedlings, but still a heck of a lot of work to set out!)
After unloading and admiring her garden, we set out!

First stop was Yarns International. I receive e-mail notifications from this shop and was eager to see it first-hand. They have loads of nice stuff, but only a fair amount of non-animal fibers. We stayed not too long as we were both hungry and a cute little sushi place is in the same mini-mall.

YUM! Heath did the ordering for us which worked out great as I've never done sushi before, and we are both vegetarians. We started with surprisingly stout miso soup, then went to California Rolls, and another roll with asparagus. There was a neat side sauce of pungent horesradish to clear things up a bit.

Next, we went deeper into Bethesda and the home of Knit and Stitch = Bliss. Here's another shop that I have followed in the mags. It was quite large, with a quiet, private area for the requisite "back table" and the main shopping area was multi-level and laid out with plenty of room to browse. Here I came across a lovely new yarn:

The softness, and silkiness of this yarn is quite surprising particularly when you look at the fiber content: 100% Bamboo! Let me tell you that this is miles away from SWTC's bamboo -- a completely different (non)animal!

My one complaint about Knit and Stitch is that they plaster great big labels on the ball band, but after a bit of scraping, I can tell you that it comes from Plymouth Yarn Company's Italian Collection and is called "Royal Bamboo." No pattern in mind yet, but I am seeing a sleeveless summer shell with some detail. The roundness and sheen of the yarn should make for excellent stitch definition! I checked the color against both me and Heath, as I'm already sure whatever the finished product, it will be for one of us.

Here we took a tiny break from yarn stores. Did I tell you that Heather is not a knitter? How's that for a pal to schlep around with me?

OK, next we visited the Montgomery Farm Women's Cooperative Market which is a feast for all the senses, not to mention an interesting historic location. We bought herb plants and baklava and a tiny pie, but the pinnacle was a marble Budda statute for Heath (which she had been watching for some time).

After lugging the Budda back to the car, we traveled just a few short minutes into DC and the Chevy Chase Stitch DC. This is the newest of their 3 locations ... and I'm pretty sure the Capitol Hill location is LYS home to pal GG.

At last, this store had a particular item from my list -- Cascade Fixation!:

How's THAT for color? I've been watching as the Vegan Knitter worked this ribbed sock pattern from Anna at Finally Waking Up and, you know, it was time. I got started yesterday afternoon to make sure it will be a suitable travel project. More on that later.

Our last stop was just a few doors down. I don't remember the name, but it's a real old-time diner! We splurged on fabulous chocolate malts to end a perfect day.

Heather and I have been friends for 20+ years and have enjoyed lots of lunches and long phone talks and too-many-e-mails to count, and of course, Hen Parties, but this was the first long afternoon of just doing whatever struck us. . I can't understand why we waited so long.

********************************************

Last now, because it's been so damn long since I even mentioned Aran Rose, I want you to see that I am still working it! Here's the front ... up into the armholes. I have finished the decreases and will work straight until the neck bind-off. I still LOVE the Calmer! In my MerryLand, it is still quite cool, but I know it will be damned hot before I get this baby finished. So ... I'm setting my sights on fall!

Lithuanian Festival

2006-05-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

The "Vytis", the White Knight on a charging stallion is the state symbol of Lithuania. Yesterday, at the 34th Annual Lithuanian Festival in Catonsville, he seemed to be leading the merriment!

First, we had to gather a few Lithuanians. The DH and I (each 1/2 stock), took off with Honorary Lithuanians Gretchen and James, toward the home of our pals, John and Ann, where we caught sight of their groovy new bamboo fence, complete with a hand-worked copper rainguard top:

Ann is also 1/2 Lithuanian, and John joined the Honoraries, so we were 3 and 3.

Small world that it is, when I first told Annie that my father's family settled in a Lithuanian community in Brockton, Mass., she immediately started rattling off names of roads and stores and the like. Though I've never visited the area, she remembered clearly the Moneikis Bakery (which was owned by my uncle) from her childhood visits. Annie's Grands were in the same neighborhood and might well have been friends of my Grands.

So it seemed appropriate that we should celebrate the ancestry together. We started out with shopping the tables. I came away with a lovely pair of Baltic amber earrings set in silver -- my first amber!

The festival was held at the Catonsville Armory which contains a Lithuanian "Militaria Exhibit," which we missed, but we did take a minute to check out a proud militia couple, caught in time way before my camera's lens cap even came off!:

I also chatted briefly with the proprietess at Maridana who posed with two real dolls, all three in traditional dress.

At the Maridana booth, I was able to see in person the mittens that caught my eye on-line some months ago:
At that time, I wrote to ask if there were patterns available. First, you know I don't do wool, and secondly, it would be a great experience to try to knit them myself. Sadly, there was nothing available. However, the next table over at the Festival was full of books on many aspects of Lithuanian culture. There I found a historical anthology of Lithuanian "gloves" -- which seems to be the generic name for any hand covering, with fingers or without. The book includes charted design patterns, so I'm hoping to combine them with a generic mitten pattern and come up with a masterpiece! Now I need to search out suitable yarn.
Of course, we had to sample the refreshments. NO! Not the sausage ... the LIQUID refreshment. Here's the group with a teensy, yet potently powerful bottle of viryta, the spicey honey liquor that is synonymous with these gatherings.

Amply warmed by friendship (and the viryta!) we settled in for the dancing. What a show! Eight couples make up the Malunas Folk Dance Ensemble of Baltimore, but only six couples were performing this day. Energetic, spirited, and joyful they were, and we truly enjoyed the show.

A highlight for me was the men's dance in wooden clogs. Since I have a pretty large collection of wooden shoes of various cultures, and a supply of my own homemade viryta, I think we need to plan another gathering and form our own dance group!

Rain on Poppies

2006-05-13T12:16:00.000-04:00

F I N A L L Y .... we received some much needed rain here in my little section of MerryLand. It came in the form of a dousing storm -- two nights in a row -- but it was rain nonetheless.

As I have been thinning and moving stuff over the past weeks, the soil is like powder -- painfully dry. Today in the garden, everything is clean and bright and oh so happy to have had a sip of the wet stuff.

Three more Oriental Poppies have performed:

Brilliant:

Garden Glory:

and Raspberry Queen:

Out in the Back 40, the lovely Japanese Snowbell is a showstopper. It stands at about 8 feet now, with the lowest branches only about 3 feet off the ground. I'm dreaming of the day to come when it is large enough to sit fully under. Here's what it will look like up above as I sip a cocktail under the branches:

And here's a close-up of those magical blooms ... first they look like little eggs, then open to pure white bells with yellow clappers:

We hit a few yard sales this morning and I bought a tiny two-spouted ceramic vase (actually, porcelain I think) that will be perfect for violets. During my garden tour, however, there was nary a purple violet to be found. However, still blooming strong is this beauty:

Mom called it the "Maryland Violet" cuz she found it while wandering around a creek where my brothers were fishing as little lads. She had never seen it before in her native Virginia, hence it must be a "Maryland Violet." It is unusual in its branching habit, which none of my other violets follow.

So, we're off now to the Lithuanian Festival ... pictures coming soon!

Baby Arrived; Sweater DONE!

2006-05-09T17:31:00.000-04:00

Sweet Niece Michelle's babe arrived Saturday evening. He was delivered by c-section, weighed 8 pounds and his Mom and Dad are delighted.

So I had to get his welcome sweater finished. Here it is:

Aiding the finishing process was a new gadget. This was my first opportunity to use Knit Klips and they were quite helpful. This is an ingeniuous little helper, kind of like a hair clip but with only a single spike. You can match up rows before sewing to see what you're gonna get and to keep things on track. They don't fall out nor distort the work like straight pins can do. I'm happy with the purchase.

After the picture, I treated the sweater to a little bath in an effort to shed at least a portion of the kitty fur. It is drying nicely now and should be ready to wrap up tomorrow. I sure don't want to barge in on them too soon, but I am looking forward to a trip across the Bay to meet Hunter.

Speaking of the furry ones,
Beau supervised the sewing process from on high. The loft ladder rises up over my back desk -- which is actually a cleverly designed sewing machine cabinet. I have the two desks in my Palace with my chair inbetween in an effort to have room to spread out. However, typically both surfaces are piled with crapola and I am scrinched off to one little corner no matter what I'm working on.

Certainly I am much too important to waste time clearing off my finished and half-finished projects ... or to read that big stack of mail ... or to file paperwork ...

Seals and Fluffy

2006-05-04T08:19:00.000-04:00

My Number One Texas Nephew is off on a very big adventure. This courageous kid has set his sights on making himself a Navy SEAL. He left Monday afternoon for the start of his Navy training with the full support and pride of his family and friends. Here's the report of his arrival from Bro Joe:

Brian got to Great Lakes safely. He called Tuesday
night.........10:00 call ... I'm zonked out on the couch.....

phone: collect call to anyone from Brian...will you accept the
call?"

me: yes

Brian: I'm here.

me: Hey Brian, How's it goin?

Brian: That's it. gotta go.

telephone: Click......... hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Amazing. Bro Joe says "The guys barking the commands must have told the boys, tell 'em you got here and hang up." I guess I can understand that they have a zillion things to do to get settled and organized and stuff, but cripes, doncha think he could have been given at least a few minutes for Dear Ole Dad? To me, it would have probably been better just to receive a recorded message or e-mail instead of hearing Bri's voice but not being able to talk.

In the Cute Department, here's one of the DH's second family members, the beautiful blue-eyed Fluffy, relaxing in the Iris bed.

Long Time No Post

2006-05-03T08:22:00.000-04:00

Back again, we are, after a much too long silence.

What's been up?

* A "pay day" (a/k/a settlement - what a beautiful word!!) for me, Mavis
* "Christmas in April" volunteer day for Schavis Construction (it was delightful)
* the annual spring street festival here in my little MerryLand town (perfect!)
* gardening ... oh, how we love spring gardening ....

Here's a beautiful clematis - gift from my Mom 3 years ago -- sorry, I don't know the variety:
and False Indigo (Baptisia australis), also in its third year:

Knitting? This is supposed to be a knitting blog, so of course there is knitting:

The back is finished on "Aran Rose":

... and I started yet another new project:

This is a Fisherman's Rib baby sweater for my niece's babe -- who was due a week ago but has not yet emerged. Here's why I started this project:

Gretchen decided she was ready to try something new and came over to sift through my vast stack of magazines, books and leaflets. She had narrowed the search to a baby sweater and what eventually caught her eye was the very first baby sweater that I made! My notes in the margin remind me that I made this sweater and matching hat for TWO BABIES! Yes, my neighbor was pregnant with twins and I made two sets - one pink and one blue - for little Robbie and Cassidy. (Sadly, I never saw the babies wearing them, but that's another tale).

Anyway ... Gretchen went yarn shopping and came back with the only yarn that she liked ("off-white" color was the goal) but which was not the right gauge. I was out and about the next day and found Bernat's "Softee Chunky" in three terrific shades -- off white, pale grey, and "Medium Sea Green", so I bought them all! For the sake of nostalgia, I decided to knit it again, along with Gretchen.

The next night was Friday Night Pizza. Gretchen came over a little early and we knit together until the wine made her decide to stop. I am reckless and kept on! Since them I have manged to scrape together enough seconds to do the back up to the shoulder. I'm not sure how much progress my pal has made.

A Hodgepodge

2006-04-25T17:47:00.000-04:00

This is a day of unconnected, but very important items.

First, today is the birth day of my dear, departed, faithful kitty companion, Ethel Jean Mertzenberger Meisterstein, better known simply as"Ethel" or "Boo."

Ethel left this world last August, at 20 years plus. She was cranky -- but had been her entire life -- and skinny and wobbly, but she left us on her own terms, in her own home, very much in charge --- and for that I am grateful, although I miss her so much.

She got "planted" out in the Pine Room, in the Very Sacred Area near Luci's grave. We planted a beautiful pink azalea to mark her spot, since she loved to smell flowers. It is today in full bloom, seemingly in honor of the birth of Ethel:
Also in splendid bloom today at Chez Schavis is the first of our oriental poppies, Queen Alexandra:

... at least I think that's the name of this one ... but I don't have time for fact-checking as the DH is way hungry and beginning to grumble so I have to finish this post F A S T !

Last ... look what came in the mail today:

I do have ongoing knitting ... and I am making progress ... and I bought new yarn today ... but it shall all be cast aside tonight as I delve into the literary product of my favorite knit blogger, The Knitting Goddess who is now an author. How cool is that?

Our Summer Guests Have Arrived

2006-04-24T17:32:00.000-04:00

The Hummingbirds are Here!

This morning, just before daybreak, DH spotted two of the little creatures.

I was still in bed, awake but not alert ... that is until I heard his hurried gait coming up the stairs. Scared me full awake, it did. Into the room he rushed, "they're HERE!" Of course I knew what he was talking about as we've both been anxiously watching the lonely feeders for weeks.

I hopped to it, preparing fresh sugar water in fresh feeders so they'd know we were happy they were back.

I saw the male a few times thoughout the day, then later in the afternoon, a sweet little female. Each of them made the same route: first to the porch feeder, then over to the kitchen window feeder, then back out to the chain hanging from the arbor -- which held a feeder last year. I think these must be returning guests. And we're very happy to have them back.

Continuing Ed Knitting

2006-04-19T08:58:00.000-04:00

It's incredible how much difference bamboo needles can make to a "legal update" lecture:
I started the bottom ribbing of "Aran Rose" Monday night while hanging with Jack Bauer. Then Tuesday morning, I picked up with the rice stitch pattern of the body in nice rhythm to the dulcet tones of Attorney Davis (no relation). We finished nearly 3 inches while also gaining the remaining 3 hours needed to renew my license next month. Multi-tasking at it's finest!

Violets

2006-04-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

I am a real fan of common garden violets and we have lots of them here at Chez Schavis.

There are a number of different varieties and I love them all.

This group, with a rich medium lilac color and delicate long-stemmed flowers, came up between the patio stones. They are particularly pretty against the grey stones:

This one has a big flower in creamy white, with a splash of purple:

Many years ago, I bought a pot of a variety called "Freckles" for my Mom. Of course, she shared the resulting babies with me. Over the years, the original had become two varieties.

Dark Freckles:

and Light Freckles:

Now this leads me to a knitting thought. Because this is just about the same shade as Dark "Freckles," let me share a pattern that caught my eye.

This is a freebie from Tahki*Stacy Charles that is an insert to the Spring/Summer 2006 "Vogue Knitting" magazine. It's a 20 row repeat with a stitch dropped 7 rows!

I am fascinated because:

1. the look is incredible;

2. I've never done anything quite like this before; and

3. VK is knitting something in drop stitch and made me remember that it's fun!

Refreshments on the Lanai

2006-04-12T20:26:00.000-04:00

Last Christmas, my bro Joe, came up to visit and we had a splendid time ... eating bushels of tortilla chips with his Famous Salsa, playing Spades, and drinking beer.

It was a wonderful time that we really enjoyed, so it was an even nicer surprise when a box arrived from him a few weeks later. Apparently, the bro had a fun time too as he was moved to visit the Haak Winery in Sante Fe, Texas (Galveston County) and choose a great package to send our way: a very cool wooden box with sliding lid, and underneath nestled in crinkly brown paper shavings were 2 bottles of wine (1 white, 1 red) and 2 long-stemmed glasses with the winery logo.

This is a bit of a stretch from the typical nightly refreshment here at Chez Schavis so we decided to wait a bit to enjoy it.

Today was the day.

Our new sidewalk project started this morning and there was jackhammering and concrete sawing and dust everywhere. I had scheduled (in my own mind) to have the day off, but it was not to be as I was here at my desk until after 3:00, then off to the office for another 2 hours.

Once I got back home and started some vittles to cook, the DH and I met up on the back porch to overlook the demolition.

The “Blanc du Bois” was something new to me, Mavis. I’ve never heard of that particular grape but it makes me think of The Golden Girls … ahh, Sophia, Dorothy, Rose, and of course that Southern vixen, Blanche. What a great show! That's real TV!

The wine was great too. It is a bit sweeter than my normal taste .. and I don’t think I’d like it for winter … but it was 75 degrees and still sunny during our tasting. It makes a nice summer refresher.

I guess Texas did send something good to Washington.

Thanks Joe!

... and sorry for the barb on your boy

... kind of

This is Why I Love My Pals

2006-04-12T07:46:00.000-04:00

me, Mavis had a crappy day yesterday ... complete with shutting my own hand in the car window.

But no matter what happens, it seems that The Hens always bring back my good spirit. Some days the on-line messages are classic:

GG:

I'm so confused about Easter - - is it today? It's all mumbo-jumbo to me. Although it's good timing that the "resurrection" of Christ coincides with the resurrection of nature, that way us pagans have something to celebrate too.

P.S. Q found a pair of women's underwear this AM at the cemetery. He covets his finds, so thankfully he did not bring the panties to me.

Heath:

yes Easter is today - you should be at church. ... lost panties in the cemetary - brings back my youth! I actually did leave a pair behind in a corn field.

This stuff is priceless.

Sunny Sunday all about DH

2006-04-10T17:45:00.000-04:00

I spent most of yesterday ferrying cars and then hanging out at a car show with the DH. It was sponsored by our pal, His Lordship, and held at the mansion where he hangs his bowler during normal business hours. DH posted a few pics on his blog.

I must admit that my somewhat willing participation was also for the benefit of His Lordship, who truly endeared himself with this recent gift:

This is a teensy-tiny glass Lord Ganesha and I think it is wonderful!

Some weeks ago, over a (equally teensy) glass of vino, His Lordship and I learned of our mutual interest in Ganesha. I quickly retrieved my copy of "The Broken Tusk: Stories of the Hindu God Ganesha" which was beautifully written by a local woman who is/was an artist in residence at Montpelier Cultural Arts Center. HL apparently enjoyed the book because he returned it along with my beautiful prize.

Back to DH's blog, it's also a worthwhile trip to see the final pics of a recent kitchen remodel here and don't forget to take a look at the "before" shots.

In the Wacky Story Department, here's a really freakly one for you. The DH's parents retired to sunny Florida last fall and are enjoying the glamorous life in Boca Raton, courtesy of their rich friends. It was during such an event that our story begins.

The In-Laws were invited to a birthday party on some Big Ass Boat. I know it has a formal designation of some sort, but I am a land-lubber. It is also important to our story that this was some Big Ass Boat, because it doesn't fit under the bridges and they have to beep or something to get the bridge to open. So, here they are at a bridge, beeping and waiting, and the bridge doesn't open. The skipper (?) finally decides he has waited long enough and maybe they can just squeeze under. Off they go. The mast clears the beginning of the bridge, but midway through there is a terrible crack and a chunk of the mast drops below and KILLS INSTANTLY one of the party-goer passengers. Just like that. There was a medical professional of some sort on board who tried CPR, but she was gone that quickly.

It turns out the MIL was sitting quite near the poor woman, but had ducked away to prepare the birthday cake with candles. She was in the Ladies when she heard the big crack and immediately thought the cake had slid to the floor in ruin. Gee, wouldn't that have been a nicer outcome.

This story came from the FIL to the DH, so I'm telling it ... third hand, I think?

VK asked in the comments who was the cute pup in Thursday's post. I'll bet you didn't even recognize him in such splendid form, but that was my dear pal, Quincy, whom I wrote of last fall when he was one sad, sick pup. He's in great shape now, full of piss-and-vinegar, and loved by all, but most especially his main gal, GG -- who's also my pal ;-#)

One Sleeve - DONE!

2006-04-09T08:31:00.000-04:00

We finished the first sleeve this morning ... Beau and me.Of course, I had to stretch out the finished back too so we could see how they look together.

I cast on for the second sleeve while Beau tested for napability.

Next we have the mammoth front to think about.

Beau likes it just the way it is.

The Picture Taker

2006-04-06T07:14:00.000-04:00

My camera is a Sony FD Mavica and I love it.

It is a big ole clunker in comparison to today's sleek, tiny models and for that GG always makes fun of it, and thereby me, Mavis.

However, it has a feature that makes it invaluable: The Sony can store on regular, cheap, run-of-the-mill computer disks. And you can take said computer disk, toss to anyone of your choosing, they can go pop it into any computer disk drive and see the picture -- no cords to hook up -- no downloading -- it's just there, Voila!

If I need to prepare marketing stuff for a new house, off I go with my Sony. I can snap the pics, then head back home, to my broker office, or anywhere else to work the magic without regard to "do I have my cords?"

There is one downside.

The disks add up. They multiply. Most importantly: they don't self-label.

Here's the stack that typically piles up at my feet (but please ignore the dust which truly I can't even see from way up here):
This is the stack of stuff that I have already used. When it pops out of the drive, it falls a short distance to the floor below. Every so often, I can't stand it anymore and decide to erase the stack. Of course, I can't risk that there might be something very cool that I have forgotten, so I have to go through each one separately. This task I did this morning ... and the picture above is AFTER I went through a bunch and erased.

Here's the top of my desk, with the neat stack of freshly erased disks front and center:

See that other group resting between the telly and the speaker? That's the stuff that I have gone through and for whatever reason can't bear to erase, but have no useful purpose at the moment. The stack just sits there, occasionally getting knocked off by one Helper Cat, Beau.

Okay, so what did I get for my efforts at clean-up this morning? Here we go!

This baby-filled belly is courtesy of sweet niece, Michelle. Love the belly button ring! She is now another three weeks or so into the "project" and Hunter is due near the end of the month.

Here's my Wally doing a little fishing off the hallway radiator ... BTW, the DH just came in to tell me an interesting factoid. You might remember that one of Wally's nicknames is The Notorious BUG ('cuz he's the Bugman). Well DH says that The Notorious BIG, a/k/a Biggie Smalls (the rapper dude, ya'll!) was legally named Christopher -- wait for this now --- WALLACE! Unbelievable.

Back to the pictures ...

Here's a handsome orange cat with a serious attitude. Why, oh why is Beau is such a snit?

Here's why ...

Who let the dog in? Woof ... woof, woof!

I Need Some Focus!

2006-04-04T18:05:00.000-04:00

Thanks so much for those nice birthday greetings for Isabella. She would thank you herself but has gone "down under" for the afternoon. That is, down under our bed where she can't be bothered, but will at least answer my inquiry as to whether she is ok with a feeble "mew."

Just like the weather, me, Mavis has been in a bit of flux here. I can't seem to find focus with anything I try to do. I'm hot and cold over my return to real estate. I thought I'd had enough of a "sabbatical" last year to put me back straight. Not so. Let me tell you there are some really really really bad agents out there. Rude, sloppy, out-of-line, uncommunicative ... and those are the ones that can speak at least pidgin English!

At nearly six years licensed, I am already a long-timer. My colleagues who are really old-timers and have been through fast and slow markets tell me that crappy agents will fall off as the market continues to slow and we will be back to a core group of solid agents that a) gives a rat's ass about a long-term reputation; and b) likewise gives a rat's ass about building relationships with other agents. I can only hope.

We had rain last night. Oh Momma, we needed it. We need more. Please! DH and I worked in the garden over the weekend and the soil was like powder. Nevertheless, stuff is popping up all over and every day there's a new delight as I welcome back a perennial I had forgotten. I almost always forget them which is cool to have a surprise, but annoying when I want to do some work before everything has emerged.

DH's outside kitty, Moms, is sooooo pregnant. He worried over her during the storms last night and then she didn't show for breakfast this morning. I'm just hoping she has retired to her nesting spot and is safe. We really have to consider trapping, spay and release after she weans her kittens. This is no life for her.

Remember my post about that cool catalog from Ram Wools? Well it turns out there was a specific reason why I suddenly received this catalog. You see, when my Secret Pal sent a note to reveal her identity, she also sent along a generous Gift Certificate to ... yes, you get it, RAM WOOLS! How cool is that?

My Secret Pal is a neat gal named Jan and I am looking forward to learing more about her. I must admit that I immediately starting going back through the catalog and dreaming of spending my loot, yet I still haven't made a final decision. I'm learning toward a pattern and yarn from Nashua Handknits. The "June Cardigan" has a v-neck and cabled edgings and cuffs. It is knit, appropriately, in "June" a 100% microfiber. Anyone know about it?

At first I was excited about the Tussah Silk, which is supposed to be harvested after the moths exit, but after the comments from The Bitter Knitter and VK, I'm not feeling so comfortable about it and won't go in that direction. I'm also liking the looks of their "Cilantro Stretch Cotton" (70% cotton, 30% acrylic). Though I love the feel of cotton, I'm not keen on knitting with it -- except that is, for the Manos del Uruguay "Cotton Stria". I'm also seeing lots of comments about Mission Falls 1824 Cotton, which was apparently discontinued and just brought back. Folks seem to LOVE it, and it looks to have that same crinkly texture of the Stria. Perhaps I should check it out too.

Back to the need to FOCUS ... remember that "Audrey" top in Calmer that I was so wacky about? Yes, it has been there on the sidebar with "Poised for Rip-Out" forever. Though the words are still there, that baby has been ripped. And, it was rewound and re-knit into the beginnings of Wendy's Generic Toe-up Sock Pattern ... and that is ready for ripping too. First, I don't think I got the short-row toe and heel quite right, and second, even though I went down a few needles sizes below the recommended, I'm still not happy with the gauge. So, I went looking for something else.

I finally settled on this "Aran Rose" from Interweave Knits, Spring 2006:

I dutifully swatched, going down one needle size since I tend to knit too loosely, but low and behold, gauge was off and I truly did need the recommended Size 7. Of course, my long size 7's are patiently waiting in the first sleeve of the Yankee Knitter Aran. I'm more than half way -- actually about 3/4 finished, so I'm going to force myself back to the sleeve before I start the new Aran. Isn't it cute?

I'm off to a monthly community meeting, followed by a check on a house, and then a visit to the office to pick up two offers that arrived this afternoon. Maybe the sleeve will wait a little longer.

The Baby is 3

2006-04-01T09:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to Isabella!
Our baby turned 3 today. She is quite a different gal than when we first spotted her, calling out from the weeds at the edge of the bike trail more than 2 1/2 years ago.

Why was she out there all by herself?

Why did she first call out to us and not the rest of the hikers and bikers?

After the mower scared her off, we thought she wouldn't return again, but why did she call to us again the second time when we rode back past her at least 20 minutes later?

Why did she follow along behind me, pushing my bike, for nearly 1/4 mile back to the trail head?

Why did we send her home with my sister that night?

Why didn't Ginny, Danial and Sassy find a way to include her in their family, but instead returned her to us?

Why did I make up flyers to find her a new home?

Why did Beau immediately decide he would be a very quiet, patient observor of the new wee babe and take on his position as mentor?

All these questions, and one important answer.

It was meant to be that Isa would join our family and infuse us with her quirky yet loving spirit.

We all love you, Ping Pong.

End of Week Observations and Musings

2006-03-23T06:13:00.000-05:00

1. I was driving along the Washington Beltway Wednesday morning and passed three big dump trucks all in line one after the other. Each had large lettering across the tailgate. I read each as I passed.

First: "The Lord Hears Your Prayers"

Second: "The Lord is the Light"

Last: "Pimpin Ain't Easy"

2. While I have talked a bit here about my Swingin' A Hammer Career, I haven't shared very much about my Exciting Career in Real Estate. That is partly because my business has been slow, and partly because of the kind of crap that transpires when I am busy that is too godawful ugly to set to type. Last Monday I listed a house and another will go on the market this coming Monday. This is the time that I have lots and lots of interaction with my fellow Realtors.* and I always think to myself, "I wish everyone could be smart enough to remember the Unofficial-But-So-Important-to-the-Success-of-Your-Transaction, First Rule of Real Estate. To Wit:

DO NOT PISS OFF THE LISTING AGENT
(You thought it was "Location, Location, Location", huh? -- WRONG!! NO SOUP FOR YOU!)

3. So I've been busy with the Exciting Career in Real Estate and thinking about the First Rule of Real Estate (see #2 above) and along comes a Subpoena to testify in a case brought by a former client from a looooong time ago against an "Inc." that I don't recognize. My relationship with said former client ended Way Bad and I have no idea of the subject of her case. OK, I was called by the Defendant and have exchanged several phone messages with their Attorney over my role. I have made it clear that I understand my obligation to appear and my obligation to (perhaps) produce my files. At first "Joe Esq." offered to have me on call as he wasn't even sure he needed my testimony. Somewhere in my questions about document production, he caught a major attitude, became rude, and I ended our call post haste. Shortly thereafter, he called and left a message on my phone suggesting we should continue our discussion. Hmmm, maybe he's thinking about a similar First Rule of Getting The Testimony You Want:

DO NOT PISS OFF YOUR OWN WITNESS (Dumb Ass)

4. All of this negative stuff is hurtin' Wally's High. (Can you see all the catnip on that shiny back??!?!?!)

* By the way, the word is REAL-TOR -- 2 syllables please -- not REAL-A-TOR. THANKS!

Ow, my Teefs Hurt!

2006-03-21T06:37:00.000-05:00

Thanks VK and 'nat for your comments about "Becky." After I pout a little more, I'll pick it back up and see what I might do about "losing the tie."

Speaking of pouting, I have a second reason. I visited the Ortho place yesterday and received a new higher gauge arch wire. ouch. OUCH OUCH OUCH!

Either I have a great power to forget, or this is the worst hurt since the start. I left the office all perky proud after that cute Dr. B said "you're looking fabulous." Oh, I could certainly say the same for you, Dr. B. (this is for you, GG)

My rush was wearing thin by about 2:00 and when I got home at 4-ish, I headed straight for the drugs. For me, Mavis, this is a big deal. I buy the smallest bottle of OTC pain reliever and usually toss more than half because it reaches the expiration date.

I took one. Two hours later, I took a second, along with a double scotch. By bedtime, I was feeling pretty good. This morning it was all back again, so I hit the scotch -- oh I mean, I hit the ibuprophen again. Surprisingly, it seems to be working.

I hope it continues ... I have to sit through 3 hours of continuing ed today and I'm certain it will be dull enough to leave me no option but to concentrate on my teeth.

But maybe I can concentrate on my next knitting project! The one highlight of last evening was a new catalog from Ram Wools. I was lovin' nearly every page!

One thing in particular that caught my eye is the Tussah Silk. From what I read, unlike typical silk which involves boiling the worms in order to take the cocoons, the cocoons of the Tussah silkworm is havested AFTER the moths emerge. This would make is okay for me,Mavis to use! And, I love the colors!

I guess I have some time to continue researching the product because a) I have a huge stash already; and b) my wallet is pretty thin.

Dreams.

Becky's Disappointing Climax

2006-03-19T13:26:00.000-05:00

All give praise; "Becky" is done.

Though the finishing work was my best effort yet, I am left with an aching hollowness.

Becky looks OK ... actually quite good ... on DH's dress form ... you can check it out in the Gallery here --

-- but it looks like shit-on-a-twisted-stick on me, Mavis.

See ...

First, that lovely, LOVELY color that I so adored while knitting, ... um ... maybe it's not good for me. Will a tan help?

Then, the plunging neckline -- which is so much lower than I anticipated -- also serves to show off my sensible, construction demo work, grey cotton bra. oh my.

Should I have knitted size "Small" instead of "Medium"?

So, I strung the drawstring a little further up the lace panel, pattern instructions be dammed!

Then I added in a cute cami with nice white lace.

Success! No sensible bra showing now!

But I feel like a cardboard box.

I need to go a'diggin' in my dresser drawers to see if I have any ancient, date-worthy, low-cut bras.

That's after a tan, that is.

Becky's Final Construction

2006-03-18T11:10:00.000-05:00

I completed knitting the last piece of "Becky" over coffee this morning and after a fortifying breakfast of scotch and milk (soy, of course!) knuckled down to the process of {gulp} finishing.

Does anyone like the process of sewing the pieces together? This is the part I like least, mostly because I feel hugely incompetent. And also because it usually shows. My incompetence, that is.

So, this morning I was looking for a really positive attitude. I decided to go at it very slowly and methodically.

Which is why it is now 11:10 and I haven't finished.

But, I'm setting it aside for now so that I can get myself ready to head out for a baby shower for my very sweet niece, Michelle. She will be receiving the Cabled Baby Sweater and Hat which you can see here.

Okay, here's what I did so far. First, I have all the pieces ready to go, with the right BOOB(that's for you, VK!) part already attached:

Then I attached the left BOOB before turning to the back. I put together the yokes like this:

I was pumped after this part because I think it came out nice and neat!

Then I sewed the back yoke to the back, the front yokes to the respective left and right BOOBS (!!VK!!) and lastly, sewed up the left seam from bottom hem to sleeve hem.

Later, I will sew up the right side and then do some crochet magic around the neck edge.

STAY TUNED!

The Injustice! ... or not?

2006-03-15T06:51:00.000-05:00

I've been reading knit blogs for a good while now and every so often I come across a post where the writer blasts back at a flamer.

My first impression is always "Wow, you must be offering something worthwhile in some way or other in order to have someone interested enough to comment!" That's the Positive me, Mavis.

Then, I received a comment pointing me to this Wacky Cat Hat.

Of course you don't get the connection yet, but I'm getting there.

Since I was already there, I decided to look around at the stuff that the "You Knit What?" folks find offensive.

A post titled Boobs caught my attention.

Now do you get it? YES! That's right! That's my current work-in-progress Becky!

Guess what else? I still love it and I don't give a rat's ass that it got flamed!

That's still the Positive me, Mavis talking!

By the way ... progress on Becky?

Front -- check!
Back -- check!
Left Bodice -- check!
Right Bodice -- check!
Left sleeve -- 3/4 finished.
Right sleeve -- still to go

The Tunnel

2006-03-14T08:25:00.000-05:00

A very late Christmas present has arrived here at Chez Schavis!

Beau, Wally and 'Bella send a great big thank-you to their Granny -- THANKS GRANNY!!

She slipped them some do-re-mi during the Holiday Cheer but it took a bit of time for the humans to find the right thing to purchase.

The kitties think it was worth the wait.

Beau keeps look-out at one end ...

Wally "The Paw" keeps look-out on the other ....

?might there be a plump 'Bella in the middle?

This thing provides loads of entertainment (for both four- and two-leggeds!)

The manufacturer also makes a cross-road adaptor so that you can attach multiple tunnels. Sure, let's take up the entire living room floor!

The literature provides a "Helpful Hint: To attract your cat to the new Expandable Tunnel, place catnip toys inside to attract their attention." HA! I barely got the tunnel expanded before there was a large black explorer diving in!

Verdict: 12 paws up!

Early Spring Fever at Chez Schavis

2006-03-11T07:33:00.000-05:00

Spectacular weather for early Spring here in MerryLand meant that the humans spent the entire day Friday happily working outside in the gardens. We cleared away the remnants of Fall leaves to find crocus, tulips, daffodils, poppies, peonies, bleeding heart, and many others just starting to pop up. DH cut back sod and remulched around a few trees too. We were tired at day's end, but in that nice, fulfilled way.

Meanwhile, the Beasts also enjoyed the warm day, lazing on their Cat Porch while birds of every feather stopped nearby at the feeder or in the big Pussy Willow.

Though we have been seeing the birds all winter, we realized that we had just started hearing them again -- Robin, Cardinal, Red-Winged Blackbird, Chickadee, and Mourning Dove are some of those we recognize by vocalization. After I cleaned and filled three baths, there was an immediate line-up of Blackbirds in one and Snowbirds in another. It is quite dry here just now.

At bedtime, it was still so warm outside (mid 60s) that we nudged open a window in the bedroom. I woke up several times to see a feline outline on the window sill, and when the birds started singing near 6 a.m., it was unmistakably Miss 'Bella stretched out.

So, it seems that the kitties didn't want to miss one second of the outside entertainment and stayed up most of the night. This morning they were definitely sleepy.

I attempted to do some knitting at the kitchen table, but I stepped away for just a moment and this is what I came back to:

A short while later, Beau decided my knitting basket was not so comfortable after all and he moved on. However, before the nest had time to cool, another customer moved in:

'Bella, on the other hand, prefers to snooze on the Cat Porch, stopping in from time to time to refuel:

We're headed back out for more spiritual fuel in the garden today!

Happy at Court

2006-03-08T10:32:00.000-05:00

Who has time to knit? to blog? I've been in Camelot, baby!

At long last, I set aside the needles and passed back into my beloved world of myth, pulling this from my groaning bookshelves.

It's a joining of two novels of the life of Guinevere: "The Child Queen" and "The High Queen". At 623 pages of very small type, this is a lot of story. I'm near the end of the tale and am slowing my pace as I'm sorry to say goodbye.

I found a link to the Author today and see that she has several other interesting titles. Any reviewers out there?

Chocolate and Cats and Hummingbirds

2006-03-05T10:22:00.000-05:00

Here I am on a lazy Sunday morning, enjoying my blog reads which feels like catching up with friends. Some of my non-blog friends don't seem to get my enthusiasm for this game, but I do truly enjoy it.

As a matter of fact, I find that I have really missed the adventures of Vegan Knitting which seems to be having some technical difficulties.

The Vegan Knitter (or "VK" as I call her) has been an active participant here and has touched my heart with her thoughtful and knowledgeable comments on my Beasts while she suffers from allergies that keep her from a closer contact.

While I'm allergic to cats, I love them, and I love to read about them on people's blogs. Why is it that cats and knitting always seem to go together? (Or not, if you know what I mean!)

Wally, Beau and 'Bella all strut by tails held high when they see VK's logo on my screen (and they would LOVE to dig through your yarn stash VK!).

Not totally smitten by those cute feline faces, VK also asked in the comments:

Have you picked a winner yet for the Damn I love chocolate contest?

Ah, another subject that touches my chocolate-loving heart! Yes, I have picked a winner. Though I truly enjoyed each and every entry pulled together by my Secret Pal, (notice the use of the past tense here?), I have to award the Gold to ....

Ah, yes, it's those wacky Dutch all decked out in their bright orange apparel. Don't let the fashion sense speak the whole story! Those folks sure know how to craft the chocolate. The little Pastilles are the perfect shape, size, and blend of luxurious meltability. I was entranced.

So much so that I was forced -- with my blood level nearing toxicity -- to purchase another flavor from the "Pastilles" line -- ummmmmm, Coffee Cream!

In my defense, I did not set out to buy more. No, I was minding my own business there in the Giant store -- actually, I was searching for treats to stuff the goodie bags for DH's 40th Birthday Bowling Party which is another matter entirely, but does point to my unselfish frame of mind --

ANYWAY, there I was totally naive to my fate, when I spotted them: the familiar by now, uniquely-shaped package with the fake official seal and smart gold lettering -- but wait! there are several varieties -- and one of them is ummmm Coffee Cream -- my fate was sealed, they came home with me. Doncha think I really must try each of the varieties?

I'm also excited these days by the fast-approaching SPRING! Birds are singing and early bulbs are popping up all around. I was delighted this morning to see entries on the Hummingbird Migration Map. Unfortunately I didn't note the exact date they first visited us last year, but I do remember that I put the feeders out just a day or two after the first of April, and we spotted a visitor within a week or so. Those little fellows kept us constantly entertained. I sure hope to have some entertaining stories and photos to share this year.

What Was that Weird Thing?

2006-03-01T07:24:00.000-05:00

Were you curious about that odd scraggly item in yesterday's post?

Did you follow the links?

Huh, huh, didya didya?

If you did, then this will not be such a surprise to see what that wild mess became:

He's cute, huh?

Go on .... follow the links ... you know you want to make one or ten!

The Team Spirit Continues

2006-02-28T07:20:00.000-05:00

Coming off the strict regimen preceding my Olympic victory ("strict" for me means not knitting whatever the hell I want whenever I want to), I jumped back to the long-stagnating Aran sweater.

First, I finished the back:... and then got a nice start on a sleeve:(The true color is somewhere between the two depicted here -- I know I am no photographer ).

OK, so there I was, finally getting somewhere on this project which I think I started sometime in late November -- yes, THREE months ago -- but then I got hit again with the Team Spirit which led me to produce this:

"What the heck is it?" you are thinking. Well, this time it was the Knitting Goddess that led me astray. I first followed her link to get the gist of the project, then followed again for the details. Come on - join in with Phyl!

Back to The Goddess, but on another subject, in this entry she talks about the "Trinity" stitch in her new Aran -- which is the same as the "Blackberry" stitch in my Aran. Having worked this "rose by any other name", I understand the use of both names, and I agree that it is a bit squirrelly to start with. However, once you get it, the stitch is great fun to work.

And to close ... my efforts have been rewarded -- isn't he wonderful?

Olympic Conclusion

2006-02-25T09:58:00.000-05:00

The Thrill of Victory was indeed earned by me, Mavis ... but the end result was not quite as planned.

My Olympic goal was to finish two Princess Snowball Cat Beds -- one for Isabella and one for Beau -- during the 16 Olympic Days. I finished early -- Hurray!

Thanks again to the Knitting Olympics organizer, the Yarn Harlot, my teammates at U S Team Cat Bed and our coach and organizer, Knit'nat.

Though I'm proud to have completed my event, the Thrill of Victory is bittersweet as my rose-colored vision of the little beasts snuggled in their personally customized and color-coordinated labors of love was futile.

Although Beaubalicious did take a brief snooze in 'Bella's bed, he entered his own green creation only when bribed with a Tastations treat. Worse yet, last night he decided to nap in one of Wally's store-bought KittyKups -- WHICH HE NEVER DOES!!!

Following her mentor, Girlfriend has refused to enter either bed, except to dash in one plump paw in order to retrieve her much-loved sparkly balls.

Before I collapsed from the utter disrespect, enter the Number One CupCat in all of MerryLand and probably onward -- Bug Man. True to form, this dude has yet to meet a cozy bed that is unworthy of a little snooze. Yes, he has already laid claim to two store-bought creations that he uses daily. But my hero decided that my lovingly crafted work was to his liking as well. You Rock Wally!
(for the astute knitters who are saying to themselves "Those sure don't look like no Princess Snowball Cat Beds!" -- you are right! I followed the general shaping and construction of that pattern, but substituted yarns and finishing of my own design. Specifics will be added to my Knitting Gallery soon.)

End of Week Observations and Musings

2006-02-25T09:35:00.000-05:00

1. Why do people point to their wrist when asking for the time, but don't point to their crotch when they ask where the bathroom is? (This is from a group of such things sent by my SIL, Bonnie).

2. I haven't had a regular daily Monday through Friday job in nearly six years, and weekend work is not uncommon for me, Mavis -- yet I still feel that certain "sweetness" waking up on Fridays in preparation for the weekend.

3. Two nights ago I had a weird dream where a religious fanatic pulled a knife on me when I questioned her doctrine. Thursday night I had a strange brief glimpse dream of cutting off my left hand cleanly at the wrist with the wet saw (which I was scheduled to use all day Friday).

4. I chose to interpret the #3 events as warnings to be careful so I did carry on with the Schavis tile-setting project. I am happy to have both hands intact today.

5. I have an every-growing supply of small rocks that I pick up whenever one calls out to me. Nearly every day, I hover over my collection until I'm drawn to one (sometimes two) that I put into my pocket with a brief prayer. In a trying situation, I can take hold of the rock (which will then be very warm from sitting next to my leg) and feel/sense/know the support and guidance of Mother Earth.

Hens and Goats and UnMeat

2006-02-23T16:28:00.000-05:00

Ohmigod, have you tried these yet!!??

UnFreakingBelievable, I tell you!

The DH gave them a high-heat saute so there were crunchy, almost-charred, edges, then added in a bunch of neat vegetables (baby corn, sugar snap peas, etc.) sauteed separately in a smoky marinade, and mixed the two together -- it was magic! The best part? 100% Vegan according to the nutrition info label.

In a non-related event ... we took a little road trip up north to Harford County over the weekend to look at an old house that was absolutely cool, but also, alas, kind of beat to crap, AND in a terrible location ... but I digress ...

During said road trip, we came across these ladies (who I seemed to know from somewhere?):
... and just across the street, another cute couple:Doncha dig that face?

THANKS AGAIN SECRET PAL!

2006-02-20T22:06:00.000-05:00

I received a very nice surprise last Friday ...

... a big box of fancy stuff from my Secret Pal!

Check out the Lilac bubble bath and bath confetti (ummm, Lilac, my favorite ...),

... the "Candy Blue" Cotton-Ease (I've worked with it before -- it's Grrrrrreat! -- and I have some "Licorice" shade left that might mix nicely with it!)

... and the stash of luxury chocolates! Very appropriate chocolate, I might add, for an Olympic Knitter like me, Mavis

Entering the me, Mavis Damn I Love Chocolate Competition is: Isis from Belgium, Alprose from Switzerland, Droste from Holland, and Ghirardelli from Team USA. This will be a tasty trial!

The Brothas were more interested in the box:

End of Week Observations and Musings

2006-02-17T16:35:00.000-05:00

1. I'm glad to have the Olympics just now as I have been very proud of our team and hope their good actions will be noticed by the rest of the world -- especially cute Seth the Gold Medal Winning Snow Boarder who threw his arms around the other two athletes on the winning podium in an act of excellent sportsmanship and solidarity.

2. My vote for best words of the week go to Maureen Dowd for "Shooter Slips on a Silencer" in the February 15, 2006 edition of the New York Times:

" . . . Cheney gets his macho kicks gunning down little birds and the occasional old man while W. rides his bike, blissfully oblivious to any collateral damage. Shouldn't these guys work on weekends until we figure out how to fix Iraq, New Orleans, Medicare and gas prices?"

Amen, Sister.

3. And, speaking of "Sister," that quote came to me from my dear pal, Heather, who I couldn't love or respect any more if she were my blood sister.

Two New Finished Objects!

2006-02-15T08:03:00.000-05:00

So you thought you knew about ALL of the half- and even less- finished objects that I have started and haphazardly tossed aside in my fickleness. Not so!

Two weeks ago, DH went to do some handyman work for a delightful duo in our little town. The Sisters B have lived here since the elder was only 4 or 5. They are now 80-something and 70-something and have lived together in the same house all these years. The Elder is currently undergoing chemotherapy and has lost hair. DH was dismayed at the cap she was wearing when he visited and came home to say how nice it would be for her to have a hand-knit chapeau. He had a very thoughtful idea and I complied:

For Mary, a sweet neighbor:

I also finished the first of my two planned Olympic runs:

Hey wait a minute ... wasn't that kitty bed supposed to be for "Bella?

Back UP and Runnin!

2006-02-13T17:35:00.000-05:00

We had a big snow here in my MerryLand! It started Saturday afternoon and by Sunday morning, it was a wonderland of 12" or so of very heavy snow -- dragging down the evergreens and a few others -- snow.

We lost at least two big branches from the beautiful American Hollies outside my Palace window -- one from a tree on our property; and one from Jose's.

Cable was out when I got up Sunday morning and didn't come back until this afternoon (Monday), so no internet for me, Mavis. I can stand the dial-up only long enough to see if I have any pressing mail.

Saturday during the day I listened to the news on our TV band radio, and we watched a DVD ("Men of Honor" with Cuba Gooding, Jr.), and then for evening enjoyment, the DH hooked up rabbit-ears. The reception was not bad at all, and really, we often watch standard network stuff anyway.

and yes, I am knitting.... The Olympics started Friday night and I was there for my event! My progress is being added to the Team Cat Bed blog (see the button on the right-hand side) though apparently not soon enough for Coach Knit'Nat ... yep, she dinged me right here on my own home blog!

I chose a very easy pattern for my Olympic event as I know my attention span is limited. Little did I know that it would be a physical contest as well! It seems that the 3-strands on size 10 1/2 needles makes a nice, tight fabric that is stressing the delicate hand muscles of me, Mavis. Sure enough, I woke up several times Friday night with both hands and forearms tingly numb. So, I quickly decided to take a slower pace. Luckily, I never have a problem with starting another project to take off the edge!

So, here it is, the lovely "Becky", knit in a nice, gentle Berroco Touche, 50% Cotton, 50% Rayon:This is the back, at 11" or so toward the completion of 15". Then I can start the lace-pattern fronts!

But back to the Olympics for a minute ... not the Knitting Olympics, the OTHER one ... is anyone else totally diggin' the speed skaters? I find myself swayin' back and forth, right along with them. You gotta love those great big powerful legs.

Tonight: Mike's Heartwarming Vegetarian Chili with Olympics and 24! It doesn't get any better than this!

End of Week Observations and Musings

2006-02-10T16:36:00.000-05:00

1. Having braces has brought an unexpected bonus to me, Mavis. Pre-braces, I wore a pants size "X", fitting quit snugly. Braces went on October 31, 2005. Pants purchased first week of February, 2006 are a size X minus 1 and fit quite comfortably. This is because I am a brushing/flossing nerd (Hello! I'm paying eleventeen thousand dollars for this process!) and cannot even fathom a between meal snack that is worth the effort of the brushing routine.

2. Before I leave the house, I MUST check the whereabouts of each of my 3 Beasts... AND, I MUST tell them where I'm going; when I'll be back; to have fun; to look out for each other; and that I love them. As they are almost never all together, I MUST go through this dialogue at least twice.

3. Thing have been coming in "two's" this week. During a very brief blog-reading session this morning, I was TWICE directed to (of all people),William Shatner. Yes, that pompous-assed, bad-acting, flinging-myself-about-the-under-attack-Enterprise, William Shatner. First, the ever-enlightening Knit'Nat directed us to his new DVD club ... and if THAT wasn't bad enough, then Veggie Geek (see Feb. 3, "Common People") posted the lyrics to his song ... with Joe Jackson??? This is too weird for me, Mavis.

4. Vegetarians and Vegans spend too much time answering lame questions about their food choices. In this video, Steven the Vegan gives an idea what it's like. (I found the link on the Shmoo Blog).

5. I get so pumped when I feel like I have bested "The Man" and won a round for "the little guy." My dental wax discovery will make me happy for a long while.

6. We're preparing for a snowstorm here in MerryLand, which means that the grocery stores are filled to the tippy-top with aggravated, unfriendly folks elbowing one another to get milk, bread and toilet paper. I went in for the required Friday Night Pizza, but came away forlorn ... no plain pies were left. I did get the fixins for Mike's Heartwarming Vegetarian Chili ... and 2 bags of Frito's Scoops with which the DH eats his chili ... no spoon necessary!

The Many Names of Beau

2006-02-09T20:19:00.000-05:00

For the third installment of the Nickname Project, please meet, last but not least:

Proper Records Name (used by his vet): Beau *

* When his pathetically thin mother, Kate Moss, moved the four tiny kittens to our cellar, we agreed to be foster parents, but had no intention of becoming permanent adoptors. The bigger of the 2 orange kittens was called "B.O." (for "Big Orange" -- aren't we clever?). As time marched on, "B.O." went through several iterations: I went from pronouncing initials "B.O" to the word "Bo", while DH changed the definition of "B.O." and used the name "Stinky." When it became apparent that "Bo" would remain with us, I prevailed on usage, and changed the spelling to "Beau."

Frequently Used Alias(es):

Beaubalicious
Beauby
The Big Guy
Shalamala
Dreamcicle
BeauBro **

** Beau and Wally are littermates and collectively referred to as "the Brothas"

***************

For a look at a neighborhood urchin (who does not yet have nicknames) check out this post from The Things I Get Into

Tagged Twice ... Same Day

2006-02-07T19:15:00.000-05:00

I have never been tagged for a "meme" before, yet yesterday I was tagged twice!

First, let me say that I'm kind of queasy about these things. While they are sometimes fun to read, they are also coming really close to those 300 or so daily e-mail messages about friendship, love, or [insert whatever here] and if you don't send it on to 27 people within the next 4 minutes your arms will fall off just after you have come down with a gigantic headcold and the runs. Now, of course no one really believes those things will happen (do they?), but at a minimum if you don't participate you will not be a team player and a black mark will go on your permanent record.

Having THAT off my chest .... I have decided to participate by posting my answers .... but I'm not yet sure if I will "tag" anyone else.

OK, the first meme came from the ever-busy Knit'Nat who tagged me for a musical meme:

List seven songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether they have words, or even if they’re any good, but they must be songs you’re really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your seven songs. Then tag seven other people to see what they’re listening to.

If anyone expected current stuff, you expect too much of me,Mavis. Even if I have heard and/or enjoyed anything even relatively new, I surely won't know the name of the song nor the artist.

Mostly, I listen to NPR while I'm here in my Palace, or for Friday Night Pizza we often turn on an oldies station, but otherwise, the music plays only in my head, or in an endless loop from the "I don't know many of the words" DH when he gets a song stuck in his head. (This usually happens during a multi-day paint job when we are in close proximity for long hours.)

Anyway ... my choices (and I threw in an extra since I'm not really following The Rules):

Summer Breeze - Seals & Crofts
Back in the USSR - The Beatles
Stray Cat Strut - The Stray Cats
Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding - Elton John
Tender Tennessee Christmas - Amy Grant
Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong
How Far is Heaven - Los Lobos
Found Out About You - Gin Blossums
Mercy Mercy Me/I Want You - Robert Palmer

Next, I was tagged by a (da da da DAAAA!) -- a LURKER!!

Yes, a cute California Vegan Gal, Obstiknit Vegan tagged me for the "Four Things MeMe."

And, away we go:

Four jobs you have had in your life

Greenhouse Worker
Gofer in Motorcycle Shop
Clerk in a tiny standalone photo processing booth
Legal Secretary

Four movies you could watch over and over

The Color Purple
A Christmas Story
My Cousin Vinny
Forrest Gump

Four places you have lived (Hmmm, I'm such a homebody, that I must go down to the TOWN level for this)

Oxon Hill
Morningside
Clinton
Upper Marlboro

Four TV shows you love to watch

24
House
M*A*S*H
Friends

Four places you have been on vacation

Great Smokey Mountains
New Mexico
Greece
Cayman Islands

Four websites you visit daily

Google
Wendy Knits
Vegan Knitting
Fake Sheep (even though she posts like every 3 months!)
Knit'Nat

Four places you'd rather be right now

(I'm actually perfectly content and very cozy right here in my Palace!)
in my garden on a soft summer day
in my loft during a snowstorm
on the couch with one of the Brothas in my lap
with the giraffe herd at the watering hole

High-Tech me, Mavis

2006-02-06T20:11:00.000-05:00

That's right ... my new swift and winder came in the mail today!

I waited only long enough to put on my home uniform (sweats, baby!), pour a glass o' vino, and then I plowed right in! I even set it up at the kitchen table so I could (in theory) make dinner whilst I was winding.

Also in the box was my "Becky" pattern and Touche yarn, so that's where I started winding. Let me tell you, this thing is WAY cool.

Knit'Nat, send your skeins on down here ... I'll have it all wound up in a snap -- no charge -- really!!

Anyone else out there need some yarn wound? ... Please?

Yea, that's me, Mavis sounding like a damn ADDICT!

P.S. to Vegan Knitter: Thanks so much for the heads up on the Lentil Soup from Vegan Planet. It was really great; much heartier than I anticipated, and I'm sure I'll be making it again and again.

P.S. to no one in particular ... don't I look like Harry Potter in this picture? ... or is it the wine ...

The Many Names of Isabella

2006-02-04T11:35:00.000-05:00

Proper "Records" Name (used by her vet): Isabella*

(* this is correctly pronounced in a sing-song, Spanish-ish
"Eee' sa bel'la" as opposed to plain ole American "iz a bella")

Frequently Used Alias(es):

Bella
Ee-Sa
Ping Pong
Ping-a-Ling
Busy Ella
Girrrrrrrrrl
The Baby

... still to come ... The Many Names of Beau

End of Week Observations and Musings

2006-02-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

1. It is "winter" in my MerryLand, yet today I saw 2 women wearing flipflops. I wished I was wearing flipflops too when the thermometer reached 64 degrees.

2. Overheard comment from a tiny girl to her mother in a department store: "Can we go home now ... I miss my dog."

3. A segment of a recent talk show dealt with how men and women show their devotion for one another. The expert offered that women are likely to verbalize, while men show their love by doing things. DH made a wicked-good Scrambler for me this morning ... and it's a weekday.

4. I spend much more time reading/thinking/talking about knitting than I spend in the actual process ... and I'm starting to come to terms with that.

5. In today's "heatwave," we opened the kitchen window and I immediately felt a huge sense of loss for my dear old kitty, Ethel, who used to sun on that ledge when the window was opened. She died this past August at 20 years and 4 months of age.

6. The saying goes "you only get one chance to make a first impression," but I think it's a valuable idea to leave yourself open to reinterpret the first impression you receive -- particularly if it was clouded by second-hand information. It may come to pass that a really special person is revealed where you first saw only negative traits.

Wally in the Store-Bought

2006-02-02T09:39:00.000-05:00

I have been shopping a bit and thinking a bit about my Olympic Cat Bed projects. I'm probably not going to go strictly by the Princess pattern suggestion, and have purchased a few potentials to swatch.

Meanwhile, Wally thinks the Store-Bought bed works just fine and is unconcerned that he is numero tres on the list for a hand-knit version:

Why yes, of course he is on the kitchen counter -- don't your cats lie up there too? This was the third time I "flashed" in his face, so he has his eyes shut so tight you can't make out a thing!

DH says this is "lights off". When he opens a little squinty bit, it is "parking lights." When he goes wide-eyed, it is "high beams." That really seems to fit on a black cat! His eyes truly are like lights coming on and going off.

We do a lot of nicknames around here at Chez Schavis. Today, I'll let you in on the many monikers of Wally.

Proper "Records" Name (used by his vet): Todd Wallace*

(* does anyone remember the FOX5 newscaster, Todd Wallace? He was one smooth dude and my favorite, -- soooo I respectfully named a scrawny kitten of a neighborhood stray after him. (You're welcome!) ... Be careful that I might like you too much!

Frequently Used Alias(es):

Toddikins (primary common name used during kittenhood)
Wally (primary common name used since he got all big and stuff)
Meester Wallace
Gorilla Pads
Doodlebug
Bugs
Bugsy Malone
Bug Man
The Notorius B U G

...still to come... The Many Names of Beau and 'Bella.

Who would believe it? me, Mavis an Olympic Athlete!

2006-01-31T17:23:00.000-05:00

The Thrill of Victory, The Agony of Defeat -- or maybe de Feet, as so many other contestants are knitting socks. Yes, Dear Reader, we are talking about the Knitting Olympics designed and choreographed by the Yarn Harlot. I have joined Team Cat Bed (see my new button in the sidebar), under the intense coersion -- um, I mean, Careful Coaching of Knit'nat. Ya'll know that my poor unappreciated Beasts need hand-knitted Cat Beds, right? So, there you go ... that's my Olympic Event ... knitting at least 2 beds between the time the Opening Flame is lit nd when it goes out -- 16 days. Since I can't seem to get away from my computer long enough to knit NOW, I'm not sure how the added pressure of The Olympics is going to help ... But Knit'nat has a way about her.

In other news, looky what I ordered yesterday:

A beautiful wooden swft and ball winder, courtesy of my MIL and FIL who sent me a nice check for Christmas. I have a batch of organic cotton waiting in the wings, ready to try these babies out. Of course, since the shipping charge was already being paid, AND I had $5 or so left over, I put in a few $$ of my own and added on a pattern leaflet and some of that new Touche! I'll post a pic when it arrives.

Sock with completed foot -- but very lonely ...

2006-01-30T12:32:00.000-05:00

... and it will probably remain lonely for a while as I'm not inspired to cast on for a mate. I'm not so sure I like the way it fits and feels, though I do like the look. Without consciously planning it that way, I used the colors of my high school ... which, by the way, is preparing our thirtieth reunion , as we speak.

I prepared another winning recipe from Vegan Planet last night: Tempeh Simmered with Tomatoes and Sauerkraut. It made me feel a strange cosmic kinship to my departed Lithuanian peasant ancestors! As suggested, we ate it with coarse Rye bread (store bought), but I was thinking how perfect it would have been to have some of the Moneikis Bakery Lithuanian "black bread" from my childhood. Now that was some serious stuff. This was bread that needed to be chewed -- and thoroughly, I might add.

... but, I'm getting off the subject. Just as I was cleaning up, over popped cute Jamie on an errand for Gretchen. He stepped in the door, and immediately "mmmm, what smells good?" I pulled the leftovers back out of the fridge and he dug in. His German background made the sauerkraut a shoo-in, but he had not tried tempeh before. He gave the dish a positive review as well.

Which is better - A footless sock or a sockless foot?

2006-01-29T10:29:00.000-05:00

I really like it when Blogger images look better than the real thing! In this case, you see the good side of my current sock; the other side has some weirdness at the heel flap/gusset area from where I carried along the unused blue yarn. Also, even though the Addi Turbos are fantabulous, I still have a laddering problem where the 2 needles join. I guess I need to go back and find the sites where I read about this problem before -- and more importantly, The Solution!

I have finished the decreases and can now just knit away for length until I go back to blue and the toe shaping ....

But I'm a little bored with this now.

Fickle, fickle me, Mavis.

I have been paging through the current Vogue Knitting, Interweave Knits, and the catalogs from Knit Picks and Webs. I'm also having daydreams about some groovy yarn that I bought in Fredericksburg, but ...

I can't find it ...

except in this blog entry ... sigh ...

Yesterday, we had some real Spring weather here in MerryLand! I found myself at our little rental house painting porch railings, and it was so warm that I ended up in just a t-shirt after peeling off lawyers as the sun hit my work area. That was balm for the soul.

Today, we are in overcast gloominess with rain -- Perfect Knitting Weather!

A Diversion

2006-01-24T18:01:00.000-05:00

I don't want to work on any of the projects that I have started. There -- I said it.

I don't know why I get so fickle sometimes, but I do. Then I start digging through my stash, or lurking around on other blogs for inspiration, and hours go by and still my hands are empty.

Tonight, I dug out 4 wacky-colored skeins of Katia Mississippi 3 ( 60% cotton, 40% acrylic) -- purchased several months ago on clearance from Yarn Garden, and my closely-read but still unused-for-knitting copy of "Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles".

IT WORKS! You can see the teensy beginning there at the bottom of the picture -- 6 rows of 2x2 rib. I'm working the first pattern in the book: Simple Sock in Three Sizes. You can't get more basic than that. Now I must decide whether and when to add:

stripes in the ribbing?
different colored toe?
different colored heel?

Actually, I think the "whether" is a foregone conclusion as I only have one skein in each color. I just hope I am clever enough to leave enough of each color for the second sock ... or maybe they could be opposites? We'll see.

Here's the real star of the evening ... the addi TURBO's. Great Day in the Mornin' these things are every thing I've heard -- and more!. They are precision, I tell you! So smooth, so silky ... and the cable? Oh, the cable. It just hangs there gently, never tugging and pulling you where you don't want to be.

I regret every hateful thought I had about spending "so much money" on a pair of needles. These babies are worth every penny.

From "in Progress" to The Gallery!

2006-01-22T14:25:00.000-05:00

Ah, I love that lead-in ... because that means I have finished something. And that something would be the "Cabled Sweater and Hat for Baby Hunter Michael in Sirdar Snuggly Baby Care."And here it is, posing in the warm sunshine atop DH's 49 Caddy:I'm very pleased with this final product. It is very soft and cuddly; is a nice classic design for a little boy; the metal buttons fit very nicely; and the finished measurements are SPOT ON with the pattern specifications. I think this might be a first for me, Mavis.

Interesting, isn't it, how it works out when you use the suggested materials?

In other knitting news ....

Last post I told ya'll about the wonky decreases in the "Audrey" sweater and how they were weirdin' me out a bit.

Faithful reader, the Vegan Knitter said in the Comments:

I want to be comforting and kind and tell you, "Oh Mavis, it looks great! Don't worry about it!" but instead I'm going to be honest. I noticed something was wrong right away.That being said, have no fear, have no fear (said the Cat in the Hat!) I'm sure you can fix it and then continue on to make a beeeewetiful sweater. Minus the ewe since it's vegan.

Funny, about the "ewe", huh? Thanks, I needed that!

But back to the wonkies ... that's the whole point, VK, there's no fixin' to be done! From looking at others on the Knit-A-Long, the wonky decreases are CORRECT to the designer's instructions. I've checked my progress against close-up photos from other Audrey knitters, and they could be twins. So what are we to do with that, except suck it up and move along? I'll post another progress shot soon.

But speaking of twins ... I went on a visit last Thursday to an old friend from Big Ugly Law Firm. She is now a stay-at-home Mom to 2 1/2 year old twin girls. And lovely lasses they are, little Emma and Chloe. Momma Meg is as perfectly efficient at Mothering as she was at dealing with annoying attorneys and running a gigantic litigation.

Since my Thursday socializing was such a success, I tossed aside working on Friday as well, and this country mouse headed to town to have lunch with The City Hens. We met at Teaism, just a half-block from Heath's office and not too far a walk for the athletic GG. How odd I felt traveling in on the Metro to an area being rebranded as "Penn Quarter." So much has changed, and I was all tentative and wide-eyed with confusion just like all the clumsy tourists I cursed for so many years when they slowed my daily precision commute. DAMN YOU ALL - GO BACK TO IOWA ... and have a nice day!

Tiny Baby "Audrey" Unveiled

2006-01-19T16:02:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I get all worked up about doing a pattern "properly." Then I spend so much time thinking about it, and reading about it, and googling about it, that I get nothing done.

Take "Audrey" for instance. I think I cast on ... hmmm, maybe Sunday night? Yes, I have been busy, but for cryinoutloud, it is THURSDAY, and this is how much I have done:

You see, there are decreases ... in the 2x2 ribbing ... and they look all wonky.

A special note to any new knitters out there: "Wonky" is a technical term that you will soon find familiar. If you don't believe me, go to the Audrey-along site. First, check out the beautiful finished projects of these talented knitters. Then check the Archives. There you will find many instances of "wonky" and a request for a "wonky fix."

The Bold and Successful fear not the wonky, however. Here's one who proudly displays the wonkiness of the decreases with nary an apology.

So I'm trying to be all Big and Bold and Successful and just KNIT ON DAMMIT! without getting all bothered by the wonkiness.

This is why I have to keep putting it down.

My Secret Pal

2006-01-18T06:29:00.000-05:00

I had a looooong day yesterday; came home late (nearly 7 p.m.) from a probably unsuccessful meeting and was feeling a bit sorry for me, Mavis.

Look what was waiting:

... a beautiful gift from my Secret Pal! The cute note said she is in Michigan --- BRRR! --- and went out for a long lunch on a beautiful day to buy these treats for me.

THANKS PAL!!

Rental Success ... and Other Stuff

2006-01-16T11:02:00.000-05:00

Here's what I was afraid of jinxing yesterday:I'm protecting all the confidential info by showing just this tiny portion, but take my word for it that the whole thing is legally signed and binding --- AT LAST!! We finally have a tenant in our little rental house after several false starts and me, Mavis is Snoopy dancin'.

I think the DH was beginning to sweat it a bit too, especially after one of his clients (who is a long-time property manager) told him this is the worst rental market she has seen in her career.

It seems that those who had anything close to passable credit, and/or sufficient income, had moved into the ownership lane, leaving a pool of very few possibilities. However, we came away with a fellow who appears to be very well-qualified, and is quite likeable to boot! Wish us luck.

This morning I decided to again pick up the little cabled baby sweater, which only needs to be put together. Beau knows how much I hate this part, so he decided to "help."

No ... of course I didn't get it finished.

"Holiday" Weekend?

2006-01-15T18:30:00.000-05:00

There hasn't been much holiday-type goings-on for me, Mavis. I had sugarplum visions of a long, lazy weekend heavily spiced with multiple knitting projects. Nope, it didn't happen. Not yet, anyway -- but I'm not giving up!

We have had some Wacky Weather. Last week, and maybe even prior, the weather has been so mild with day-time highs near 60. I think DH even turned off the furnace for a bit.

Then, Friday night there was a tough rain storm with thunder and lightning that scared the poor kitties off the bed and hurrying Down Under. Since I witnessed this, that means that I was awakened too.

The wind increased during the day Saturday, and that night the incredible sound woke us again. This is newsworthy because we both sleep like ancient rocks.

Very early Sunday morning, the beep of the telephone warning from a power outage woke us yet again. We could see so lights in the Rec Center across the street, and the Rats’ (that's James and Gretchen) house behind us was dark too.

We found last summer, during an outage, that our side of the street is apparently on a different grid than the other side of the street as well as our back-yard neighbors. Today we got the lucky end of the stick and lost power for only the briefest moment. We did lose cable for a few hours but that was not a big deal -- you know, compared to HAVING NO HEAT, for instance.

It continued to be very windy all day, and bitterly cold. Here's what The Natives do on such days:

The Baby gathers a few sparkly balls and heads to her room (a/k/a the guest room). This room is decorated in soft lilac and butter yellow and I think she finds it somewhat Girly and to her liking. We also keep one of Mom's crocheted afghans (lilac and white) on the bed for extra coziness (actually it's in an effort to keep the comforter somewhat un-furified).

The Brothas head to the loft. This is the topmost area of our house. Hence, the "heat rises" goes here. One side contains a Kitty Kup, which Wally loves -- check out the sunbeam just hitting the edge, and the resulting slitty eyes:

On the other side of the loft, there is an expensive furry cat cushion that sits unused, and a messy old chenille bedspread that Beau adores:

While The Natives lounged, I was hard at work -- but I won't say what I was doing for fear of a Jinx. I'll tell you what it was about tomorrow.

In other news --

I have attempted my first receipe from Vegan Planet: “Tempeh and Sweet Peppers with Bourbon-Spiked Barbecue Sauce.” It was a big hit, surprisingly easy, and well worth the (slight) effort of making the barbecue sauce as opposed to going with a bottled brand. We ate it alongside fluffy cous-cous -- YUM! (BTW: Did you know that bell peppers contain more Vitamin C than oranges?)

ONLY 90 MINUTES UNTIL THE NEW 24!

Potential for New Projects Overload!

2006-01-13T11:35:00.000-05:00

In my e-mailbox this morning was Berroco's "KnitBits" newsletter with several new (non-animal!) yarns and projects that caught my eye: Linka in a lovely aqua colorway (called "Absynthe") first jumped out at me. I'm not altogether sure about the join only at the bottom rib -- maybe too much emphasis on an area better left in the shadows?? -- but it shouldn't take rocket science to just leave it open all the way down.

As an aside, I once had a client who REALLY was a rocket scientist! Let me just say that her above-average intelligence didn't hold over in the everyday tie-your-own shoes department.

Anyway, as to "Linka," I'll have to go look at the pattern more closely before making a final judgment, but just now I'm really liking the collar detail and 3/4 lenth sleeves with wide ribbing. As to the yarn, Boho looks just great! The variable matte/shine and color changes are magnificent! Will the "hand" of the yarn be worthy?

Next, I was caught by Becky. This is one the prettiest sweaters I have seen recently!! ... but I don't think me, Mavis will be wearing it quite the way of the model. Click on the "zoom in on pattern details" and it sure looks like nothing but skin to me! The sweater is presented in Touche, another new spring yarn that looks like a winner. I particularly like the "nectar" shade (at least on my monitor, that is!)

Secondly, in my snail mail box yesterday was the new Vogue Knitting. I did a brief flip through but haven't really even begun my dissection. Later today perhaps!

Are you there? So I'm a little late on the uptake, but there still are 2 1/2 days left in National De-Lurking Week?

In humble apology to those of you (Hi STAZI!) who have encountered difficulties in leaving a comment because you can't scroll down to the comment section, I also have experienced the problem where the whole entry doesn't load. Don't know how to fix it, or even if it is fixable, but I have had success with hitting the reload button (it sometimes takes twice) and then the whole entry loads.

Wait ... I might have just given you lurkers an out!

Idle Hands??

2006-01-11T16:28:00.000-05:00

Not much time for blogging these days.

Day time has been filled with work stuff, including a breakfast meeting this morning with a pal who has a very successful tax accounting practice. We have agreed on a plan where I will assist in her office from now until mid-April (for obvious reasons ....) for at least one full day per week, and the rest of the time to be negotiated as we go. I haven't worked in an office since I left Big Ugly Law Firm in early summer 2000 and I am very excited.

The evenings have been filled with knitting-related reading, for the most part. I have been fascinated by Nancy Bush's "Folk Socks" and all the great historical material it contains. Which brings me to something that I have been contemplating. Nancy tells us that when folks used to knit for necessity (in order to be clothed and/or to make money) generally the whole family knitted -- Mom, Dad and the kids.... hands were never idle! In fact, some women were so adept they could finish a pair of mittens while walking back and forth from the village. Talk about multi-tasking! But consider how this would be received today .... is it okay to knit during a business meeting? I think the answer is generally Hell NO! But why aren't "idle hands" still a bad thing? Interesting....

Also, I have been spening a lot of time with Jack Bauer. In anticipation of his new season of antics (beginning this Sunday evening), DH and I are re-watching the last season of "24", courtesy of NetFlix. Today we received Disks 5 and 6, so I'm heading off to pour a vino rojo and settle down for some excitement. Surprisingly, it is still damn thrilling even though I saw the whole thing last season. Nona knows what I'm talking about.

I've also "met" a new pal from the Secret Pal 7 group -- which by the way, I seem to be having trouble with (which is another story altogether) -- but anyway, my new pal Yvonne (Hi Yvonne!) is great fun ... check out her blog ... and please don't hesitate to send her any and all questions you may have about BANANA FIBER!

SECRET PAL 7 QUESTIONNAIRE

2006-01-09T13:56:00.000-05:00

Today I picked up the Official Questionnaire for the Secret Pal 7 Group. We are supposed to receive notification of our Pals by this Friday, so I'd best get right to answering the questions:

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?

I might be called such, but not for the typical reasons given. That is, I go "the other way" and choose not to use animal fibers because 1) I am an ethical vegetarian, and (2) when I did wear wool many, many moons ago, it itched like crazy (I scratch just from the memory!). I prefer cotton or rayon or some-such blend for an item that I would wear next to my skin. However, I wholeheartedly support the use of durable man-made fibers including Red Heart and Lion Brand for something that will take alot of use (the afghans my Mom made for instance that have been machine washed and dried 10 gazillion times), or for an outer layer garment that can be removed if too toasty. I have two works in progress using 100% acrylic and one of them is Red Heart.

2. Do you spin? Crochet?

No spinning yet ... but I am mildly interested in spinning fur from my cats! My crochet skills have been used mostly used as a finishing technique since I learned to knit well. The process of knitting versus crocheting is superior in my view -- something about the 2 hands seeming to work in better harmony -- but maybe I'm just wacky like that.

3. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

Straights go in this can:I think I picked it up at a yardsale, and I think it once held potato chips! Circulars and dpns go in a plastic Sterlite shoebox under the desk.

4. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

As a child, my Mom taught me the basic knit stitch and I worked a garter stitch scarf that she cast on and off. That was the sum total. Many moons later, my pal Betsy gave me more substantial beginner's lessons, and I have supplemented that with book learnin' and internet videos, etc. So, counting from the second entry to the field with Betsy, I have been knitting for approximately 10 years or so.

I have done a fair amount of shaping work in sweater parts, as well as various pattern stitches, like open work, cables, etc., but almost no multi-color work beyond basic stripes. Based on the patterns I have worked successfully, I think I would be classified as a strong intermediate.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Heck yes! ... and I'm more than happy to share the link -- click here! As a matter of fact, I'm going to head there soon and do some updating!

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)

Lilac, carnation or lavender -- or a light sandalwood or bergamot-- or any other light florals or herbals . I generally don't like anything too heavy or complicated, and particularly not patchouli! This is a sad thing because a wonderful guy I know and adore almost always wear patchouli -- it often makes me headachy, sneezy and/or nauseous if I get a strong whiff! I rode the subway to work for probably 15+ years. When I had the choice of sitting near the folks that insisted on bathing in cheap perfume, or the unwashed homeless guy, Homie won every time.

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

Oh yea ... but since I went into orthodontic treatment last Fall, the braces make some of my favorites off limits. Basically, anything sticky or with hard nuts has to wait for another 22 months or so! Luckily, chocolate -- particularly rich, European chocolate ... melts like a dream and I don't have to worry about stuff stuck in the wires. See what I do for my teeth?

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
I have dabbled in tons of stuff and have a supply of materials to prove it. For the moment, knitting is my only true craft obsession.

9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

I like lots of different music, except rap -- which I don't understand, but feel confident that my opinion would remain the same or worse if I could make out the words! At home while I'm working I generally listen to National Public Radio talk, but also tune in to a classical station too. When I'm wantin' to sing along in the car, it goes to Classic Rock of the 70s and 80s. My ear was recently tweaked by a Celtic tune in a gift shop. Sadly, I have no idea if my computer plays MP3s, but I can play CDs on it (does that help?) I know I don't have any recent gadgets (iPod thingys) designed for such stuff.

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?

I love to look at most colors, but for wearing myself, I think I tend to go for spring colors: muted pinks/mauves/peach/lavender/sage green. Though I find them very pleasing, I don't think I look very good in fall colors of yellows or oranges.

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I have a Darling Husband (Bob the Builder) and three spoiled cats - Beau, Wally, and Isabella. There are also several neighborhood semi-feral cats that we have been feeding; 15+ goldfish in our outdoor pond (babies emerged last Spring!), and we also fill feeders for songbirds and squirrels in our yard.

12. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

Yes to all of the above.

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?

Bernat Satin was delightful ... Rowan Calmer is dreamy (though I've only swatched it so far) ... Manos del Uruguay Cotton Stria ... Wool in the Woods "Shaggy" ... I'm interested in trying some of the new exotics like banana, soy, or hemp fibers.

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

No animal fibers for me please. I would consider using them if I could be assured they were gathered peacefully and by a cruelty-free, loving human.

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?

I have been doing lots of research on traditional folk patterns with lots of color changes (think Latvian mittens), though I haven't started anything yet. I'm also quite interested in beads. I have enjoyed working cables from the get-go, and that remains strong.

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

I don't think I can specify one thing. It's important to me to have a choice of projects going at the same time in order to match one to my daily mood (dang that makes me sound psychotic, or bitchy at best!)

17. What are you knitting right now?

Aran pattern sweater for me (easy pattern, but tons of k1 p1 switching that is very slow going -- 20% completed); afghan in 2 different pattern panels for my nephew (fairly mindless work for TV watching -- 15% completed); baby sweater for my niece's first babe (knitting done; just need to sew up and find buttons).

I will soon start "Audrey" pullover from Rowan 25 as well as some folk mittens and socks (patterns not yet selected from the books I pulled from the Library!)

18. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

YES! YES! YES! These are the very best gifts, in my opinion!

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?

Can't say ... they both have their place. I'll stick to "both" for now ... BUT, I just bought Addi Turbos which have a huge following, so my attitude may change!

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

Same as above! It depends on the slickness of the fiber I think. Again, I'll stick to "all of the above."

21. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Nope .

22. How did you learn to knit?

See answer to number 4 above.

23. How old is your oldest UFO?

I'm assuming it will suffice to answer as to the oldest that I can remember clearly and/or put my hands on within a few hours? That would be a baby afghan in a crappy pattern with crappy yarn that I'm hoping will suddenly self-combust so I won't feel guilty about trashing it. I started the project at least 5 years ago. (Truly, my knitting UFOs are relatively few and far between -- the other craft projects, however ....)

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?

Clifford the Big Red Dog, Hello Kitty; Giraffes, Llamas.

25. What is your favorite holiday?

Winter Solistice.

26. Is there anything that you collect?

Yes, too many things and I don't want anymore ... I mean it! I really do want to pare down! Seriously! (Stop laughing DH!)

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Vogue Knitting, and Interweave Knits magazines. (The latter is a gift from DH but I've not yet received the first issue!)

28. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?

Folk patterns from Lithuania! Or any folk books, particularly one that explains why/what the pattern meant to the culture.

29. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

I'm open to learning anything ... I'd also really like to become a better "finisher" -- I hate doing it, and it shows.

30. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

I'd like to be a sock knitter! I successfully finished one pair and pretty much hated it ... but I don't think I ever got comfortable with the dpns. However, my friend Stazi recently gave me an instruction book for using 2 circulars and I'm poised to try it again soon. I have a wide foot with stubby toes. My rotten brother once gave me the nickname, "Fred Flintstone Feet" -- attractive, no? -- but it is spot on! My shoe size is 9W; my foot measures 9 3/4 inches from heel to toe, and 4 inches across at the widest point.

31. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)

12/18 -- one week before Christmas -- and I just turned 47!

DONE!

Day Trippin'

2006-01-07T18:23:00.000-05:00

Off to Fredericksburg with Darling Husband!

First Stop: The Cat's Closet which sells The Bestest Sparkly Balls In The Whole World -- at least that's the verdict from The Sparkly Ball Expert, Isabella, shown here with three new additions to her stash: The Cat's Closet has several experts in residence as well. Here is the lovely Kaitlin (with a shaved belly from recent x-rays -- but she's AOK). Katilin is the chief toy inspector and allowed me to help her try out a potential new product -- two Sparkly Balls connected with a curly spring. I think she will eventually give it 2 Paws Up!We then wandered the antique stores for a bit, working up an appetite for the second draw of our infrequent visits to Fredericksburg: Sammy T's. This nice little pub really caters to Vegetarians and Vegans, with numerous selections and a clearly marked menu. I always get felafel -- usually the sandwich, but this time, cuz of the braces who know, I went for a tabouli salad, which included mini felafel balls.

Both versions come with a sizeable bowl of the house-made lemon-tahini dressing - YUM! Of course, we also had to share a basket of fries!

After lunch, we headed to a new stop on our tour: The Knitter's Cottage (that's me on the porch!)This spacious store, located in a lovely old house with soaring ceilings and original windows, also has thoughfully placed rocking chairs inside so that DH was comfortable whilst he waited for me.

Their large inventory made for nice browsing although the non-animal fibers weren't too plentiful. Nevertheless, I managed to find Stash Enhancement in the way of GGH "Cadiz" (51% cotton, 33% acrylic, 16% rayon) marked down $3 per ball.

Although it looks sort of fuzzy in this picture, the product is actually a dull cord wrapped with a shiny cover. The blues and aquas in the colorway say "Greek Beach" to me! I bought only 3 balls and hope to try it out for socks.

Speaking of socks ... I also finally bit the bullet and handed over the $$ for two 24" addi Turbos. Now I'm set to try the new sock knitting technique on two circulars. I'm hoping to say Goodbye and Good Riddance to the rotten dpns.

Lastly ... I did knit on the drive and finished the sleeves for the little baby Cabled Sweater. Tomorrow I'll put it together and knit the button bands, finalizing a project!

Of course, there is the new sock yarn to think of ...

And the two library books of folk mitten patterns ...

Did I mention that my "Audrey" pattern book arrived yesterday too?

Swatching, Googling, and What's on My Mind

2006-01-04T17:30:00.000-05:00

The front of the baby pullover is now off the needles, with the center neck stitches on a holder just waiting for the collar. I really like the cabled pattern and the yarn is pretty nice to work with. However, I have my usual complaint about all cotton -- no elasticity. Sometimes it bugs me and is difficult to keep even tension.

I got a pathetic start on one sleeve ... can you see the 3 rows on the left-hand needle -- before I quickly changed gears to Calmer ... mmmmmmm, Calmer ..... . That's the start of my swatch on the right-hand needle.

Several days ago I broke down and ordered the Rowan 35 book, which contains the "Audrey" pattern, and I want to be ready to GO! (No, I don't have enough projects in limbo, Thanks!)

The yarn is magnificent! It has all the coolness of the cotton, but with a silky feel from the microfibre. I'm diggin' it big time.

Knitting progress has been hampered by my insane addiction to Google.

In addition to the utilitarian stuff, like searching myself for information about Amicor (since no one left me an explanatory comment!), I have been obsessed with Lithuanian mittens.

Yes, Lithuanian mittens.

No, I've yet to have luck.

Several nice bloggers have offered suggestions including the Yarn Harlot and one of her commenters, and Sandy, but nothing yet. The nice folks from Maridana wrote back to say that a pattern wasn't available, but I might want to order a pair of mittens and try to write it out myself. Nice idea ... here's the problem ... they're made of wool. me, Mavis don't do wool.

While all this is happening, I have something on my mind. Several weeks ago, I read this article in the Washington Post about a long-time committed couple who were forced to leave their home and cherished community after more than 17 years. Because of stupid prejudice -- turned to law.

They are not a so-called "traditional married couple" but nor were they necessarily looking for financial benefits like married couples enjoy. Nevertheless, the State of Virginia's "Affirmation of Marriage Act" made them terrified they would be cut off emotionally from one another during a medical crisis. So, they had to leave the home and community they have loved and supported like good citizens and move to a "safer" area in Maryland. Just so they could have the comfort of knowing that their wish would be granted to have each other make decisions if either were incapacitated.

They want to continue to support each other, in sickness as in health. Does this sound like something so horrific? Something that would threaten the sanctity of a traditional male-female relationship? Or does it sound like it's their own damn business?

I think the only effect this couple might have on my "traditional marriage" is in a positive way -- that the good example of a long-standing, loving, nurturing relationship is something that I can aspire to. I am without doubt that DH agrees.

I have been disgusted and disturbed and saddened by the unfair story of Barbara and Tibby, and the article has sat on my desk since December 18 when it showed up on my sidewalk out front. I thought it was time to say something about it.

Back to Normal

2006-01-02T09:04:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was clean up day here at Chez Schavis. Bro Joe headed back to TX Saturday afternoon, and with his leaving, the party came to a screeching stop. It was so nice to have him here, and I think he had fun, but I also know that it is so good to be back home. His three boys were also back from their visit to FL.

We spent the majority of the day putting Christmas back in the closet under the stairs and the cellar. What a huge project it is. Of course, we had lots of feline help between their long naps. (I point you to Beau from yesterday's post).

New Baby/New Project

During the Holiday Hubbub, we received a message from SIL Bonnie that our sweet niece has determined that the wee babe she is carrying is scheduled to make HIS entrance on or about April 22, and will be called Hunter Michael.

Ya'll know I had to start a new project.

This is the front of a shoulder-button pullover, that will also have a matching stocking cap. I finished the back, but didn't photograph as it is pretty standard stockinette with minor neck shaping. I have found, in my limited experience, that the Brit patterns call for working the back first. This is a good thing! I tend to get a bit bored with straight stockinette, so doing it first -- and holding out for the pattern work! -- gives me a carrot at the end of the stick.

This yarn is a "Cotton Blend DK with Amicor (TM)pure for 'just washed' lasting freshness." (60% acrylic and 40% cotton). The label goes on to say that Amicor "is a speciality anti-bacterial fibre. It keeps next to the skin clothing gently fresher for extra comfort."

Has anyone had experience with this? I thought it sounded groovy at first -- keeping the baby comfy and such -- but now the idea of something chemical is a bit freaky.

Another question is for a tip I saw on a Amy Finlay video. When adding a new skein, she knits with both old and new working yarns for a few stitches, then drops the old. The idea is that the end is already worked in so there is less weaving in loss ends during finishing. I have tried it; first thought I didn't like the extra bulk; then decided that it was so minor and would never show there at the seam side. Anyone have a comment on this?

My Bestest Student!

I told ya'll a few days ago about "teaching" Gretchen to do multi-color work (when I have done nothing more than practice it myself).

It looks like I'm a better teacher than a knitter ... This is her practice work while she waits for the mailman to bring her yarn order. Is anyone else impressed? Gretchen Rocks! I tell you!

Her pattern is vintage -- from the 40s I think? -- and was the standard from which her Great Nana produced Christmas stockings for everyone in the family. Gretchen has decided to pick up the tradition and knit stockings for the spouses of her generation and the babies that are certain to arrive soon. I think it is a wonderful labor of love and I'm happy to have a knit pal just through the back fence.

Happy Freakin New Year

2006-01-01T08:17:00.000-05:00

and shut off that damn light on your way out!

Yes, I'm Knitting

2005-12-29T12:30:00.000-05:00

Just in case any one was wondering if this was no longer a blog about knitting, I thought I'd better bring you up to date.

What with all the holiday excitement and being out of my normal, abnormal routine, you might think I was doing nothing. Not so! I'm doing lots of somethings, and getting nowhere on any thing.

For example, here's the Yankee Knitter Aran, showing much more progress than the last picture on Dec. 10 when I had finished just one pattern repeat. It's now at approximately 12 1/2 inches; the pattern calls for 16" before starting armhole shaping. Though I'm moving as slow as a herd of turtles (thanks Joe!), there is some good in this. After I finish the back, I'll need to make a decision as to whether to start a pullover front, or one of two cardigan fronts. Still can't decide. The pattern is fun to work, but moves v e r y . . . s l o w l y because of all the seed stitch which requires moving the working yarn back and forth, front to back, between each stitch.

Hiding under the Aran is White Panel Number One for Mark's UT Afghan. These rows move very quickly, but it gets a bit tedious. My informal measurement this morning shows that it is at approximately one-half the length of the first finished orange panel.

Sitting on the needles since early Summer, and listed as a "On the Back Burner" project on the side bar, is the knitty.com Branching Out scarf. It truly does exist!

I was so optimistic when I started this project ... and the first session was quite successful. But I then kept putting it down without making sure I knew where the heck I was -- OR -- screwing up and trying to rip back instead of tinking back -- with the like result that I became incredibly lost and had to begin again ... and again ...

This is my first allover lace project and I've experimented with many new techniques since early summer, so I'm thinking that once the urge to pick it up strikes me again , I will immediately grasp the pattern with a huge ! AHA ! and fly through it with ease. Till then, it continues to sit forlornly in the bottom of an unused basket.

Since I have only these three projects going at the moment (at least only three somewhat in the open that is), I felt no guilt in swatching for socks from my new book from Stazi.

I have 4 skeins of very brighly colored Katia Mississippi (60% cotton, 40% acrylic), but I don't have 2 circs in the proper size. I swatched on straight needles and then sewed it up with some fiberfill and catnip. I intended the "prize" for poor "bella who is not too keen on all the hustle and bustle at our house these days. However, before I could make an appointment with her, Wally grabbed the mouse for his very own:

I think Beau had a turn with it also later in the afternoon. I guess it's okay since they share most everything, and really, when Girlfriend emerges from down under, she's interested in:

rubbing on my leg

the cat porch

crunchies

.... usually in reverse order.

I have a number of swatches that I'm thinking I'll sew up for the beasts. At one time I was putting pattern details/pictures/swatch inside a sheet protector pocket and into a 3-ring binder for each project. But that was pre-blog! Now the picture and details are floating in cyberspace, and the swatches (when I do them) get heaped in a box of mixed patterns or under the desk.

Anyway, back to the current projects ... I'm also anxious for a trip to The Yarn Garden to find something suitable for my lovely Calmer. I've been eyeing Audrey from the Rowan 35 pattern book. I've loved it since seeing the version created by the Knitting Goddess and completely sold after finding this gallery of completed projects from a knit-along. Did I say "completely sold"? Well I guess that settles it!

Last, on my generic Wish List of stuff to accomplish, I'm adding:

something with beads

colorwork

Since I spent time last night teaching Gretchen how to do the two-color name band on a stocking for her DH, Jamie, perhaps I ought to actually "do" some myself. My almost complete book-learnin' skill did work for her, however,

In between all this knitting contemplation, I'm obsessing over my new Vegan Planet cookbook, particularly "Za-tar-Spiced Bean Patties with Coconut-Curry Sauce." And now that I'm totally salivating, off to lunch!

Aidan's Furry Pals

2005-12-27T23:20:00.000-05:00

Hey! I'm glad you came on back to see the furry ones! We had fun meeting Aidan's pals and I hope you will too.

First, let's introduce the Guinea Pigs -- Einstein (L) and Frankenstein (R) -- both female (!)

These two have been resident in the posh Bethesda neighborhood for quite some time.

The newest addition is Hufflepuff, a Lion-Headed Dwarf Rabbit:

She joined the family just two weeks ago as Aidan's pet, but it is Heather that has been totally smitten. Heather couldn't wait to get back home to her.

Since Aidan is a student at a progressive school (where he is learning to knit!), I suggested that he might learn to save and spin 'Puff's beautiful fur. In such an instance, I would definitely knit with animal fur.

Boxing Day with the Hens

2005-12-26T16:59:00.000-05:00

I joined the Hens today for our Annual Boxing Day Lunch at Cafe Deluxe in Bethesda, where we celebrated Christmas and the birthdays of the two December gals, Heather (12/28) and me (12/18).

Our camera-shy Heather did model her new hand-knit mitts, which she wore for the rest of the day. (This was the second of my secret gift projects -- I'll add details in the Gallery soon):
GG, also played camera-shy for her face, but willingly allows her boobs to be photographed.
(Actually, she was very proud of the lovely sweater/scarf combination given by her 14-year old nephew, who has been dubbed a fashionista -- he favors his auntie in that department!)

Stazi had no fear of posting for a photo with her new "Curious George runs a country" t-shirt -- a gift from GG (I got one too!).

We had a lazy time at the restaurant, then moved on to Heather's house to visit Aidan's darling pets -- I'll post pictures tomorrow -- they are worth coming back for!

At the end of the day, I headed home emotionally recharged, and with a big haul o' thoughtful gifts.

Because I recently applied to join the Vegan Knitters web ring, I have been contemplating my downward slide in diet. Ten or so years ago, I was nearly 100% vegan, but sadly, I now often consume dairy. Stazi's gift of "Vegan Planet, 400 Irresistible Recipes with Fantastic Flavors from Home and Around the World," along with Heather's funny silicone pot mitts, will hopefully help me back on track:

Likewise, my knitting habit will be well fed with "Socks Soar on Two Circular Needles" (that clever Stazi accessed my Amazon wish list!), and LUX stitch markers from GG

These babies are sterling silver in the "fiona loves frosting" pattern of "sweet pink and green swirls of glass." Ohmigod, I am too damn cool now. Off to Knit!

Christmas Night and All is Well

2005-12-25T21:04:00.000-05:00

It's Christmas Night and the house is so quiet after a day full of talking and laughing and cooking and opening presents, and playing cards, and eating lots, and laughing some more. Mom, Ginny, The Danial and Mike have headed to their own homes; my kitties have come out of hiding; and the menfolk are nestled all snug in their LazyBoys:

The Darling Husband:

The Brother:

That's Lil from Cold Case on the TV screen. The episode was about the Viet Nam War draft. I can remember the gist of that time very clearly, but the details are all a blur. I remember vague talk about birthdate numbers being called and worry about my two older brothers who were age eligible, but I learned something tonight that I had missed. Bro Joe's birthday came up as number 29. He received notice to report for processing, and he went through the physical exam and testing process. He was given the 1A classification and was preparing (at least psychologically) for deployment, but the draft was cancelled and he was safe.

I can't remember ever having heard this information before.

I can't understand how this is so.

I was 13 at the time, mostly naive and decidedly unworldly, but why didn't I know about this? True, my two oldest brothers seemed so much older and I didn't really have alot of interaction with them, but my brother, in Viet Nam?? I have a cold rock in my gut at the thought of it. Last year, I cried through most episodes of "American Dreams" as Meg, Beth, Patty and Will feared for JJ, off in the jungle doing the "noble and proud thing for his country" [sarcasticism supplied].

How did I miss this? This came as a big shock to me and I'm going to have to think on it some. Did I block it out? I am perplexed.

**************

Bella is going through interaction withdrawal, having been firmly committed to the down under (the bed) whilst all the Loud People (a/k/a my family) were visiting. Now, it's just me and Bella up here in The Palace where we can only faintly hear the snarfling, schnuffling, snores -- decidly NOT in harmony -- from down below.

Here's what it looked like this morning. Beau is the bold one, and happily inspected empty wrap and boxes. This one got a too close inspection and he couldn't get back out. HA! Beau the Blockhead:

Later, Wally sucked up some brave and inspected their new furry creature with dunce hat on a string toy:

We'll have to check back in on Bella's reaction after all aliens have exited the premises.

In the knitting department, though I had great ideas on a number of hand knit gifts, my desire greatly outmatched my ability to deliver, and I finished only two. Here's the DH in his new Cascade Fixation socks:

He is sensitive about his feet, and wasn't 100% on whether these fit properly or not. But he did wear them around for a few hours so they must not be too bad. He was definitely appreciative of the effort nonetheless, so he will go back on the list for another potential knit gift. I'll post them in the Knitting Gallery soon with all the pertinent details.

These were my first socks, and I'm shocked I actually finished given my distate of dpns. I have to say that it did get more bearable as the project progressed, but I think my next pair will be worked on 2 circs or by the "magic loop" method on one circular. I did purchase some funky, LOUD sock yarn during the Yarn Garden's fall sale, so socks may be in the works soon.

Tomorrow, after a Boxing Day brunch with Hens, I'll have a picture of the other Christmas 2005 knit gift, God Willing and the Crick Don't Rise, as Mom would say.

Sharpen up your Trash Talkin'

2005-12-23T10:20:00.000-05:00

... cuz Bro Joe will arrive tonight! That means marathon Spades games with free-flowing drink and jive.

In preparation for the fun, I knocked down a bunch o' cobwebs yesterday (a/k/a cleaned house), wrote out a grocery list this morning, and I'm now supposed to be wrapping gifts.

Instead, I took some time to send in my request to join a ring of vegetarian knitters and, a request to join ...

... Secret Pal 7!! Woo Hoo! This is a very cool project where participants become the anonymous Secret Pal of a fellow knit/crochet blogger. We will follow our Pal's blog to "get to know" them and thereafter send secret gifts sure to delight! Likewise, some other Secret Pal will be reading me,Mavis and sending goodies to me.

I have been fascinated as I read entries from various bloggers participating in Secret Pal 6 and enjoyed their description of a recently received goodie box. I am anxious to join the fun!

In nature news ....

Look at this sky outside my kitchen window last night ...

Now that's something to make you stop and take notice. Beautiful, Beautiful ...but it lasted only a few moments.

However, there is another more lasting "vision" outside the other kitchen window.

There's my obsessed DH inside his newly-delivered 49 Cadillac. For those of you keeping score, this is numero cinco, but the last acquisition, the Dodge pickup has been sent on to a new owner, so he has a net of four.

Bella had to hide her horror by taking to the loft:

Winter Solstice/Yule Customs

2005-12-21T15:25:00.000-05:00

The Solstice is here! Today is the shortest day of the year; tonight the longest night of the year.

Just as the Swedes celebrated last week by welcoming Santa Lucia to bring light into the darkness, other traditions similarly celebrate the return of light over darkness at this midpoint in the natural world cycle.

We have joined in to celebrate in an impromptu fashion for several years, using some of the common themes. For instance, I have gathered Holly branches this afternoon. Evergreens were thought to have power over death because they remain green through the killing winter. Evergreens have the tenacity to urge the coming of the Sun. Candles are incorporated to chase away the darkness and cold and encourage the Sun to return. Our evening will center around the reading of "The Yule Faeries," a charming story that I will share with you at the end of this message. I was given a version of this story many years ago, and frankly, I can't remember from whom. I have changed it a bit here and there, and hope to illustrate it at some point.

This year we will add the tradition of a sun colored orange. I learned just this morning of a terrific new simple Yule ritual! On Winter Solstice, you can pass around an orange. Each person peels off a portion of the rind while thinking about one thing in their lives they would like to "peel away" and discard. After each person has been passed the orange, and it is fully peeled, the orange is passed around again. This time, each person eats a section while thinking about one new wish or intention for the new year.

Whatever you do to celebrate this day, may it be peaceful and joyous!

The Yule Faeries

A group of little Faeries huddled in their home deep under the roots of a giant oak tree. They were safe and snug in their tiny underground cave lined with dandelion fluff, bird feathers, and dried moss, while outside the wind blew cold and the snow fell softly down to cover the ground.

“I saw the Sun King today,” said Rose quietly. “He looked so old and tired as he walked off through the forest. What is wrong with him?” Daffodil looked sadly at Rose. “The Great Oak said he is dying” she said. “Dying? Oh, what will we do now?” said little Meadow Grass as she started to cry. “If the Sun King dies, our little plant friends will not grow. The birds will not come and sing again. Everything will be winter forever!”

Lilac, Dandelion and Elder Blossom tried to comfort their friends, but they were all sad. As they huddled together, there was a knock on the tiny door. “Open up, Faeries,” called out a loud voice. ”Why are you hiding inside instead of joining us in our Solstice Celebration?” Rose opened the door and the little gnome, Brown Knobby pushed inside, shaking the glistening snowflakes off his brown coat and hat. “We are too sad to celebrate,” Daffodil said wiping her eyes, “The Sun King is dying, haven’t you heard?” Brown Knobby’s round dark eyes sparkled with laughter. “Why, He is already dead, you silly Faeries. Now hurry or we’ll be late for the celebration!”

Elder Blossom stamped her little foot and frowned at the gnome. “How can you be happy and laughing” she said, “If the Sun King IS dead, it will be winter always. We will never see the spring again!” Brown Knobby grabbed Dandelion by the hand and pulled her to her feet. “Silly little child-Faeries” he said, “There is a secret to the Winter Solstice. Don’t you want to know what it is?” The Faeries looked at him in surprise. “Secret?” they all said. “What secret? We are only new little Faeries. We have never been to a Solstice celebration before.”

Brown Knobby laughed as he danced and jigged around the room. “Come and see! Come and see! Get your capes and come with me! Hurry, hurry, don’t be slow! To the Sacred Oak Grove through the snow!” With that, he danced out of the door and disappeared into the cold, snowy night.

“What did that gnome mean?” Rose asked as she gathered up her cloak made of dried rose petals held together with cobwebs and lined with goose down. Meadow Grass pulled on her hat saying, “I don’t know, but the Lady lives in the Sacred Grove,” “Perhaps if we go to see the Goddess, she can explain what Brown Knobby was talking about.”

So, the Faeries left their snug little home and trudged off through the snow toward the Sacred Oak Grove. The forest was dark with only the light of the Moon shining down through the thick fir branches and bare limbs of maple and hawthorn. It was very difficult going for the Faeries as they were very, very tiny. As they waded along, shivering in the cold wind, they met a fox. “Where are you going Faeries?” the fox asked. “To the Sacred Grove,” they answered, huffing with near exhaustion. “Climb on my back,” said the fox, “and I will take you there swiftly. I’m headed to the Solstice Celebration as well.” The fox knelt down so the Faeries could climb up, then he raced off through the dark.

“Listen!” Lilac said as they neared the grove of sacred trees. “Someone is singing happy songs. A lot of someones.” The beautiful music carried over the cold, still, moonlit air. It was the most beautiful music the Faeries had ever heard. The fox carried them right to the edge of the stone altar in the center of the grove, and then knelt down so they could slide off his back.

“Look!” said Elder Blossom as their eyes opened wide with wonder. “There is the Maiden! and the Mother! and the Old Wise One! and many other Little People!” Lilac looked around at all those gathered there. “They are all smiling and happy,” she said. “All the animals are here too,” whispered Dandelion. “Why are they all looking at the Mother?”

The Faeries moved closer to the three Ladies seated on the altar stone. The Mother held a bundle close in her arms, smiling down at it. The Maiden reached down and took the Faeries gently in her hands. She lifted them close to the Mother so they could see what she held.

“A Baby!” cried the Faeries. “A new little Baby! Look how he glows!” they said. The Maiden smiled down at them. “He is the newborn Sun King.” The Faeries were greatly confused. “But Brown Knobby and the Great Old Oak said the Sun King was dead,” the Faeries answered. The Old Wise One touched the baby’s cheek with her wrinkled hand before answering, “That, little ones, IS the secret of the Winter Solstice! Every year the Sun King must come to the Sacred Grove during the darkest days of winter where he dies. I take his spirit to the Mother who gives him new life again. Indeed,” she said, “this is the way for all creatures, not just the Sun King.”

The Faeries looked with wonder at the baby Sun King nestled in the arms of the Mother. “Do you mean everything lives and dies and lives again, Old Wise One?” “Oh yes little ones,” she answered, “there is never an end to life. This is the great mystical secret of the Winter Solstice.”

The Faeries laughed because they were so happy. “I think the little Sun King should have gifts,” said Rose. “I will show him where the wild roses bloom in the early summer.” “And I will teach him to call the birds and listen to the songs of the wind,” exclaimed Dandelion. The Mother smiled as she looked down at the Faeries. “When he is older and stronger” she said, “then the flowers will bloom at his touch; the birds will return to sing their songs, and the air will be warm from his breath. The winter will be gone for a time as the Sun King will run and play with you in the forest.”

The little Faeries sang to the Baby Sun King songs of the coming spring, the sweet-smelling flowers, the bumbling bees, and all the secrets of the forest. And all the creatures within the Sacred Grove sang with them. Later, the fox took the Faeries back to their snug little home under the roots of the giant oak where they dreamed wonderful dreams, waiting for the warmth of spring and the fun they would have with the little Sun King.

Court (non)Appearance

2005-12-20T19:00:00.000-05:00

From about 1994 until 2001, I served in the thankless position as board member of my homeowners' association. Not only was it thankless then, it is thankless still.

Several weeks ago, the current President called to ask if I would testify in a case involving an issue that had been active under my watch, and indeed was active before and since! Of course, I was eager to do the right thing, but more importantly, I thought it might be even more fun than Judge Judy because there are some wacky characters involved in this thing.

So, off I went. Trial was to begin at 9:00. We sat and waited. And listed to the unbelievably non-professional courtroom staff yak across the room at one another. Finally, at around 9:45, Her Highness the Judge entered. Then she decided to deal with two other matters first.

Finally, our case was called. I was on pins and needles -- knitting needles that is, as I had been able to sneak them past the check in -- which was indeed the high point of my day.

The plaintiff's (dumbass) attorney began his opening blumbering ... I mean, Statement. After 5 or 6 sentences, he remembered to ask the judge to throw the witnesses out in the cold corridor so that we couldn't glom on to each other's testimony.

The benches were miserable. The other witnesses were mostly equally miserable -- to themselves as well as to me.

So we waited. And I knitted on Mark's UT scarf, White Panel Numero Uno. And we waited. I knitted a while; then paced awhile as my back is damn well ruined from hauling 40,000 pounds of concrete chunks yesterday. But I digress ...

After a time, they all came out to tell us that we were breaking for lunch.

And we ate lunch. And we went back to the hard benches. And we waited.

And after a loooonger time, they came out to say that we were recessed for the day, but would reconvene tomorrow. There were 3 uncalled witnesses (including myself).

All day I spent listening to a guy that knows everything about everything, and is even more negative than I am in this post (by the way, I am getting on my own nerves with this bitching).

But I must continue.

Not only did I have to endure the negative, but I didn't get to listen to the white trash, "Oh no she di int" in the courtroom --- AND, my testimony was no longer necessary.

That's right, don't come back tomorrow. Which, of course, I would only rather do more than, say, sticking needles in my eyes.

Yes, I'm bitter.

Let's wind this thing up on the positive ---

Ya'll remember, I hope, that The Brothas at Chez Schavis are retrievers? Although Wally was the first to display this trait at a very tender age, Beau is more likely to seek out a game at present.

Here he is with his favorite "prey", a twist tie.

My Special Day

2005-12-19T06:31:00.000-05:00

How could you not enjoy a day all about yourself? I love being treated so special on my birthday.
Here's the recap:

We started with an early morning (still dark outside) breakfast prepared by the DH, including:

Scrambler - a staple for vegetarians like us! It is a base of extra-firm tofu, sauteed with an ever-changing creative mix of vegetables, spices, herbs and whatever! This particular version included broccoli, red sweet peppers, onions and garlic, and a coating of soy cheese. (For non-veg eaters: maybe like a Western Omelet?)

"Man juice" in fancy stemmed glasses - this is a pretty Tequila sunrise-ish mix of cranberry and orange juices, so called because of the reputed positive effect of cranberry juice for fellas.

(Note the cat greeting card from Stazi with the sensible sentiment: "There are worse things than getting older ... you could have to use your tongue for toilet-paper.")

AFTER breakfast, I lazed around for a bit, even taking a wee nap. It was nice to pick up the phone several times to be serenaded by "Happy Birthday to You ..."

Later, we went out exploring, with the first stop at All About Yarn. This was my first trip to this shop and I will definitely go back, as there was a nice supply of non-animal fibers for a vegan knitter like me.

I was drawn to the Manos del Uruguay Cotton Stria again, promising myself to make a simple summer tee for those blasted hot August days. The yarn is seemingly weightless and the "bumpiness" of the ply keeps the finished fabric up off your skin. There was a delicate shell pink called Rose with the variations typical of Stria that was Wonderful!

I also fondled many a hank of other yarns, including Berroco's Idol, perused the needles and supplies, and chatted with a few shoppers. It was a nice visit and I left empty-handed!

Eventually we made our way to margaritas and burritos, along with heaps of chips and salsa -- then back to Chez Schavis for knitting and "60 Minutes."

I had a lovely day.

Cropped Kitty

2005-12-16T19:10:00.000-05:00

Can you tell what's what with this picture:
Flip it counter clockwise a turn, pull out the edges, and ...

... This was Beau at 6:00 this morning:

I slipped into The Palace to knit a few rows and my loyal Beau followed. He thinks "our" hand-knit sweaters make perfect nap blankets. I have to admit that he was present for much of this project, and I'm sure there's plenty of orange fur knitted into the stitches, so I guess it is pretty much his thang.

I have always been fascinated by this "no-paws" position. Cleocatra, companion of The Crochet Dude posed likewise in today's posting, with a funny caption from The Dude.

On a totally different subject ...

Ya'll will remember that I have "issues" with shopping carts left in parking lots, e.g., this entry.

Today, as I entered my car from PetsMart, where I spend a lot of time and a lot of $$ on two kinds of supplies -- "shovel it in, shovel it out" -- I noticed a number of shopping carts left in spaces. It was a bit windy and one was blown just enough to start it rolling across the lot. Up ahead, a big ole white conversion van was about to back out of its space. I could tell that the driver saw the cart, and waited until the thing picked up a little more speed and then crashed into the rear passenger side.

Did he get out and move the cart?

No .... and HELL NO!

He gunned the engine, sending the cart back from whence it came, then sped off across the rows of parking spaces at which time I quit watching and hoped that he would run into 2 or 3 dozen more of the wayward buggies --

-- them buggies that bug me.

Just put them back when you're finished, Okay?

Christmas Tree? Holiday Tree? MEMORY Tree for Me!

2005-12-15T15:56:00.000-05:00

We have been overwhelmed this season with all the news reports about the Capitol "Holiday" Tree, and President Bush sending "Holiday" cards, and whether it's OK to call something a "Christmas" whatever. I think it's all getting a bit tiring.

I found myself thinking about decorating my own (insert your favorite descriptive) Tree and realized that for me, it's mostly about memories and reflection.

Although I really admire the carefully coordinated and chic decorated style on HGTV, what goes on my tree is a great hodge podge of stuff collected far and wide and over many years. As I unwrap each one, I think back to where it came from, or who gave it to me, or what event it symbolizes.

I look forward to seeing again the blown glass chili peppers from a trip to New Mexico; the "worry beads" from Greece; the little handsaw on which I painted "Schavis Construction" for the first year in business; the Marvin the Martian figures (which are special for me and DH); all the different kitties that remind me of one or other of my real kitty friends; the Hindu gods from my mythology classes; the mini claypot snowman and reindeer that The Danial and I made together; the folded ribbon balls, beaded and cross-stitch angels made by our dear old friend, Janet; and the little Scottie Dog in a wicker bed that I bought for my first Christmas as newly-single -- that was when I had to start my collection anew.

There are so many others that I dig out each year, thinking over past events, and remembering old friends -- some, sadly gone now. It is a sometimes very emotional time for me, but each year I think it is more and more important to step back and reflect. The Tree Decorating Process is my own Pagan Holy Day of Reflection!

Here's what prompted today's post -- our newest addition:

This neat running horse was beautifully and skillfully crafted of wire and a wine bottle cork by our friend John, who I first knew as my first college art professor.

John is well known and widely respected for his artwork (very large stone and metal sculpture, and raku ceramic), but is mostly well-loved for his off-beat, enthusiastic, and encouraging personality. DH and I both adore John and so this little ornament is even more precious to us. It is a very welcome addition to the flock.

And, though it's not a tree ornament, here's a guy that also made me pause for reflection.

"Mr. Flurry" was a fairly early knitting project for me, and I remember clearly thinking it was so challenging with all that increasing and decreasing, and that it took a loooooong time to finish. I look at it today and say --what the heck was the big deal? (He is cute though, huh?)

Neither the Thermometer Nor the Pictures Lie!

2005-12-14T15:07:00.000-05:00

What Team Schavis did today --

Before:

After: It's only 2:00, but we had to stop because the GINORMOUS dumpster was full to the tippy-top and throughout every nook and cranny. Dumpster Guy will bring a fresh one later today so we can finish the clean-up tomorrow.

And this is what the temperature managed to do during the 5 hours we toiled:
That's right, we have reached a full 25 fun-lovin' degrees!

And just in case anyone thought I was living large when you saw the inside temp from this morning's entry (a balmy 72.5) -- that was the UPstairs temperature. The 2:30 temperature was taken on the main level ... can you see that 64.9? Can you FEEL that 64.9? No, I'm not blasting the furnace, am I?

This is what happens in an ancient house with no insulation and 12 foot ceilings -- I sweater up to go downstairs, and peel it off on the way back up.

Back to the house demo ... we did have some laughs. THANKSBETOGODANDALLAH that Jamie quit his cube job and can hang with us sometimes. He is a tireless worker and a very funny and sweet guy.

Here he pauses from swinging the sledge to bust out laughing at my own DH, holding up the last wall and peering through the window.

(Jamie LOVES to beat stuff up -- he had fun on this job today).

Now, in order to transition from butchy construction wench into something that will be acceptable at tonight's Heritage Society Annual Holiday Dinner ... let's talk about knitting.

I have reworked the white panel for the UT Afghan. You will recall that I was not thrilled with the outcome by working this panel as called for in the Bernat pattern, but I have a similar stitch going on in the blue Aran that I have taken to the afghan as well.

Here's the white panel with the new stitch:

It has so much more poofiness (I know that's not a word, but you know what I mean) and I like it so much better. Here's the difference:

Bernat Pattern:

Row 1: K3 together through back loop, (K1, P1, K1) all in next stitch -- repeat across row;

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: (K1, P1, K1) all in next stitch, K3 together through back loop -- repeat across row

Blackberry from Aran pattern:

Row 1: P3 together, (K1, P1, K1) all in next stitch -- repeat across row

Row 2: Purl

Row 3: (K1, P1, K1) all in next stitch, P3 together -- repeat across row

So, the biggest differences are PURL versus KNIT and it makes those little Blackberries POP! I also added twelve more stitches (or 3 berries) to the panel so that it is now nearly one and one-half times as wide as the orange panel. I like it much better ... and on a project of this size, I need to be happy or it will sit in a dark corner somewhere, for eons -- kind of like Ginny's sweater (which I wore for the second time already).

Please don't mind the rambling ... I'm just beginning to thaw.

Baaaaaad Timing

2005-12-14T07:17:00.000-05:00

Here's the temperature gauge at Chez Schavis: The first number is the outside temperature.
No, it's not broken.
It is only 15.1 friggin degrees!

What am I doing today?

I'm on the Schavis Team, tearing down an old building ... which happens to be ... OUTSIDE!

Did I mention this is the coldest day of the winter so far?

Happy St. Lucia Day

2005-12-13T07:35:00.000-05:00

Ya'll know I am a fan of customs and fables. It was truly the highlight of my educational experience when I discovered Joseph Campbell and feasted on his knowledge. I find it makes for a small world indeed when you can clearly see how long-ago and far-away cultures found similar explanations for the perplexing world. Maybe we are all the same?

On this day in Sweden (and other parts of Scandinavia), which they call the shortest day of the year, a festival of lights is crucial. Think, Hannukah or a good ole pagan Solistice Festival (which I will be celebrating on December 21).

The Swedes look for hope that light will prevail over darkness in the form of "Santa Lucia." Traditionally, the youngest girl of the family dresses in a white robe and on her head, a wreath of greenery and LIT white candles. (A site I found yesterday suggested that battery-operated candles were a better option as so many gals had lit their heads on fire. Wow, the great tips you can find on the internet!).

Back to our story ... the Lucia gets up early to bring light into the dark winter. Wearing her crown of blazing candles, she greets all the household members by serving steaming coffee with ginger biscuits and saffronbread.

Lucia's day symbolically opens the Christmas celebrations in Scandinavia, bringing hope and light during the darkest months of the year. Want to know more about the history of the celebation? Check out Lucia here.

In a more modern celebration, the Knitting Goddess has the most beautiful Lucia I have ever seen. Check her out here.

I only wish I had thought of this for my own sweet Lucy, who has been gone now nearly 4 years. She would have been a show-stopper!

Hey, I just realized that my Lucy went on her journey on December 20, 2001. I wonder if that was the Solistice Day? Interesting ....

Happy St. Lucia Day, Lucy! I miss you.

Early Christmas Present!

2005-12-12T08:27:00.000-05:00

Looky what was in my e-mailbox this morning:

This is an early Christmas present. No other way to do it.
Sorry for not wrapping it.
You now have access to subscriber-only content for
Interweave Knits at http://www.interweave.com/.Your web password is:
*****
The current issue is Winter 2005 and it will be mailed on
12/29/2005.

Love,
ME

I love it ... and it fits perfectly! Four lovely issues of knitting!

So, I can look forward to receiving the print issue by mail, but hey, there's no need to wait! That "subscriber-only content" is quite a big deal too. By checking on-line, I found extra content -- patterns, how-to's, etc. -- that I am enjoying already.

What a great gift! Happy Christmas to me, Mavis!

Oh, what's that you way? Who could be responsible for such a wonderful, thoughtful gesture? Need you ask?

Of course, it's Dear Husband! Thanks, DH -- you da best!

Snow Day Decorating

2005-12-10T11:36:00.000-05:00

We had snow again Thursday night, followed by icy stuff in the early morning hours, so schools were closed and lots of people stayed home from work. I was very happy that Schavis followed the Stay Home Today rule!

We spent the majority of the day digging out and setting up decorations. The cats were, of course, a huge help.

Wally checked the boxes to make sure we got everything out:

We had a delightful day, singing along to Christmas carols and going through old memories. However, as evening approached, I hated to leave our happy cozy home and go out into the frigid cold ... but we had a prospective tenant for the Little Rental House. It sure made leaving home easier to know that the requisite Friday Night Pizza was ready for the oven!

This morning, Beau was exhausted from all the activity (Don't you think radiators were invented by and for cats?):

I was exhausted too, but did manage to get through one repeat of the Aran pattern -- and I LOVE IT!!

The yarn is not so dark as this picture, but the picture really shows the different patterns that make up this sweater back -- seed, cable, wishbone and blackberry.

It's funny that I really dig the "blackberry" (middle) section in particular, because I am certain this is the same pattern for the white panels of Mark's UT Afghan. (You might recall that I recently tossed this project aside in a huff...). I'm wondering if I did something wrong while working the afghan panel, cuz it was nothing like this sweater. I'll have to go back and check the pattern.

With thoughts of various pattern stitches floating about, this seems to be an appropriate time to point out one of my favorite knitting tips:

Cables without a Cable Needle.

I first read about this maybe six months ago, and it has produced a whole new invigorating feeling about cables. I can work these babies now with zero concern ... even the 4 over 2 cross involved in the "Wishbone" section.

There are at least -- I don't know, maybe a zillion? explanations out there in blogland. The best have photos of work in progress. Here are a few that caught my eye:

from The Knitting Goddess

... and another

... and another.

For a brand new knitter who panics at the mere thought of allowing a stitch to sit in freedom off the needle for even a brief moment, I have an alternate piece of advice.

When I first started cabling, I used both the stick-with-a-bump and the u-shaped cable needles -- both made of metal. Knowing what I know now, I would steer clear of those slick metals! Instead, I would recommend a short double-pointed wood needle. For those Martha Stewart types, you can learn here how to make your own!

Happy Knitting!

Having a Pink Christmas

2005-12-07T08:25:00.000-05:00

Christmas Decorating started yesterday here at Chez Schavis, as least for one of the humans. While I played Dutiful Daughter and took my Mom to a doctor's appointment, DH set up our Very Tall Tree and it was ablaze and beautiful when I returned. We hope to dig out all the rest of the paraphenalia today.

We learned over the weekend that my sweet Texas brother, Joe, will be joining us for Christmas! He is arriving late in the evening, Dec. 23, and will stay until New Year's Eve. Joe's 3 boys will all be travelling to Florida to visit their Grandmother, who is in quite poor health, so we get to enjoy our Joe - YEA!

My "Boys" seem to feel the excitement of the season too as they join forces to attack the wacky newspaper tie thingy (being operated here by DH):

We have paper delivery only on Sunday, and nearly every Sunday, our carrier, Mr. Green* includes in our bag the bundle tie. I don't know whether he stuffs it in on purpose, or because it's a way to get rid of it, but nevertheless, we usually put it to good Feline use.

(*Mr. Green is a homegrown native and probably not much older than me. Nevertheless, he introduced himself as "Mr." and signs his annual subscriber notes as "Mr" so who am I to disagree with that? I'm considering a new program to introduce myself as "Countess", seeing as I spend most of my time in The Palace.)

In knitting news, I finished the twisted rib edging of the Aran, but then turned to the New Secret Aussie Project. Here's what I did:

Ahhh, .... pink ..... Later I'll tell you what it's all about.

'Bella has been in and out, yakking away, while I write this post. Here's what I see when I look down from my desk.

(The Pringles toy soldier tin holds my knitting needles).

Doesn't my girl have some serious whiskers? She walks back and forth, from one side of the chair to the other, "merow, merow," pausing occasionally to reach up a delicate paw and insert one needle-like claw into my thigh, which immediately pulls my hand from the keyboard for a head-scratch.

(Note to self: CLAW TRIMMING IS OVERDUE!)

First 2005 Snowfall

2005-12-06T09:01:00.000-05:00

Ah, the first snow started late yesterday afternoon and continued through the evening. This shot is from the upstairs bathroom, across the driveway and into the "Pine Room" as we call it. SO pretty - I love the way the early morning sun spotlights way back into the garden.

My weekly sales meeting AND another committee meeting were cancelled because of outages in the office. I think it is probably a Headquarters computer snafu and unrelated to the weather, but it gives me a nice leisurely morning to enjoy!

My excitement over a possible pattern for the Calmer is gone. I dug out the pattern and decided it was not so great as I remembered, so I turned instead to the Yankee Knitter Aran. Here's the very early beginnings of the twisted rib bottom edging:

Only 11 more rows and I can start laying out the pattern work!

BUT, I may put it aside for a short break because I just received confirmation today from an Aussie blogger who is organizing a secret project that I'm going to help with. So, I will be pawing through the stash today to see what I have that is appropriate. More on that later.

Yesterday, I had my first visit to a dental professional since installation day. I went for a cleaning with Gentle Gwen at the offices of Muggie the Perio Guy.

Gentle Gwen gave me an A+ for my maintenance efforts, which was a damn good thing, cuz I truly could not do more. This workout is grueling.

Perhaps more importantly, Muggie said he was very surpised at the progress of the bone grafts. He is still undecided as to whether the front tooth can be saved, but he was shocked that it had responded without fault to the ortho. I'm keeping my fingers and everything else crossed.

I posted a new picture to the me, Mavis Smile Project.

Ok, off I must go ... VERY Darling Husband is making breakfast ("Lord, I have found a Scramblin' Man ..")

Family Holiday Fun in Old Town

2005-12-05T04:47:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my memory album for this annual event, co-sponsored by everyone who can get their name in the advertising, and funded by our Fair City.

It was quite cold and windy, which may have kept some of the crowds at home, but those that attended were in good cheer and thoroughly enjoyed the attractions, some of which follow:

Real old world Carolers! So talented, so nice to watch ... especially the big guy (who unfortunately got blocked in this pic --boo!)

The Carolers are standing in front of our soon to open, eagerly anticipated, Welcome Center, which housed Santa Claus this year.

In the background is the Railroad Museum's Caboose, which was the previous site for Santa and often made for treacherous navigating. Santa-crazed kids take on superhuman strength and have no problem pushing you off the stairs.

Cute dancers from O'Toole's School of Irish Dance, returning this year to a better-suited venue in the recently remodeled community center.

This large troupe performed in beautiful intricately-designed costumes, and was made up of quite talented kids -- from teensy-tiny to full grown!

Alas, there was only one little boy, but he was up to the challenge.

Here's my favoriate part of the event -- Momma Maiasaura - SHE (Dino)ROCKS! (I have to force myself to keep from running up for a hug.)

Momma came to us courtesy of Ingrid Crepeau (she's inside) and Michelle Valeri (peeking from the left) -- who make up the fantabulous DinoRock Productions.

The Gals and the Dinos were back for a third time, but this seemed to be the best venue for them -- the sunny recital room at the community center.

At the end of a wonderful but hectic day, we waved a fond goodbye to Santa as he made away to his sleigh ... uh, actually I think that's a Toyota ...

Cross off another Kipper! *

2005-12-04T17:16:00.000-05:00

Two posts in a row from me, Mavis with ... FINISHED PROJECTS!

Last post, I gave you the much ignored (um, that was like 5 years worth) roll neck pullover, which I called "Ginny's Sweater." Today I have finished something of a much more recent vintage -- even this season! -- but with an equally sucky name. This sucky name, however, came with the pattern, courtesy of Red Heart.

And here it is, the "Elegant Cardigan" (blech to the name)

Although I hate the name, I have to say that I am lovin the style! Check out that fitted waist will ya? And my ancient crochet skills were resurrected successfully, I think, for the edgings.

So speaking of those edgings, wasn't I just complaining about hating the finishing part of a project? This one was quite lengthy. I finished knitting the second sleeve yesterday morning, all perky-proud that I would soon have another sweater. I guess I had not read down the end of the pattern page in a while. Oops.

Of course I had to interrupt numerous times for the ole cat-in-the-lap trick, but I sewed seams and crocheted edgings for a good part of the afternoon. Then this morning, a quick steam and onto DH's dress form for a formal photo shoot.

What's that? Doesn't everyone's Darling Husband have a dress form? Mine used to have a mannequin too ... with an extensive wardrobe ... but back to the sweater.

Actually, it does fit me quite well and I'll probably add a live picture later when I have someone to man (or woman) the camera. I'm not too good at the mirror shots.

Next? Well, I do still have a notion to finish some secret holiday gifts, OR I could start on the Aran sweater, OR maybe I have come up with an appropriate pattern for the Calmer? Stay tuned!

* What the heck is a "Kipper" you might say? Most in the knit blog world seem to refer to their stuff as "Works in Progress" or WIPs. Not our Crazy Aunt Purl who lovingly refers to her own getaroundtuits as "Knitting in Progress"/"KIPs"/"kippers." Gotta love that Purl.

Sniffling, Sneezing, Coughing, Achy, Stuffy Head, Fever, so I Feel Like Crap Day

2005-12-02T16:24:00.000-05:00

It may not pay (at least in the short term) to be such a devoted wife, cuz I caught a dose of the creepin' crud from DH, so it seems.

Since I already felt like the proverbial shit-on-a-twisted-stick, I decided to put time to my least favorite part of knitting: sewing the pieces together.

You shall see shortly a cozy casual pullover I call "Ginny's Sweater" because it started orginally as a present for my sister. Now I can't say exactly when it was that I started working on it, but I clearly remember knitting along while helping The Danial with his homework and sitting at my old house. The Danial is a Freshman in High School and I moved from the old house in 2001.

No doubt there's been plenty of time to simmer and stew, so without further delay,

STICK A FORK IN IT, IT's DONE!

This was a free project sheet from Michaels called "Hooded Knit Sweater for All Sizes" and done in Lion Brand Homespun Color 321 "Williamsburg." The hood didn't make the cut. I decided finally on a simple roll neck to match the roll edge sleeves and hem. ... and, I think I shall keep it for moi. (I'll know for certain after I feel well enough to try it on a parade around a bit).

Needless to say, I'm finding everything else easier to do than finish the secret holiday gifts I have planned. But, hey, nobody knows about them 'cept me, so I can be a loser and not finish and still be A-OK!

I'm off now to put on cozy sweats and hit the couch in the hope that I'll wake up from a nap to find the cold went adios.

Last, just because it's my blog and I can ... here's my Isabella during nap time.

Student of the Week

2005-11-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

Do you think all teachers make amazing students? My "A" Student, cute lil Gretchen, came over for a show-and-tell last night. She was all pumped up from working on several new projects after a lengthy self-imposed hiatus.

Early in the summer, she broke her foot after an impromptu barefooted Irish dance on concrete in the park and it put her in a funk. I immediately thought it would mean LOADS of time for knitting, but she couldn't do it.

After we went to the DC Knit Out she was reinvigorated. Capturing her attention was the Nice Knits AIDS Ribbon Scarf and she immediately took to ordering the yarn. In the meantime, she very effortlessly finished a Japanese Lantern scarf that had been thrown aside in disgust during the Time of the Broken Foot.

Since the yarn had not arrived before leaving for a visit to Colorado, she switched gears to a funky bulky knit hat with a cute bow-tie at the crown.

Having great success, she went back for a second hit on the Japanese Lantern scarf in a different colorway:

Now, the long-awaited red ribbon yarn is here and she is working the Aids scarf. There is talk about more cute chunky hats and ... maybe a sweater! I am so proud of my student!

My stuff, alas, is not moving so quickly.

As promised, I started the bobble panel for Mark's afghan:
It was not good. Actually, I think I like the look of the pattern well enough ... though I'm not feeling any rhythm yet ... but the panel is so close to the same width as the orange panel and no I don't like that.

The pattern picture is deceiving and I guess I had it firm in my mind that the white panel would be a good bit wider than the orange panel. So, I will add in several multiples of 4 stitches to the center section and see what happens.

In the meantime, I went back to the E Cardigan sleeve which is progressing at a snail's pace. Boring stockinette is surpassed in mindlessness only by garter stitch

Wally thinks all of this is too much effort. Just hit the catnip, baby and relax yo mind!

UT SOBs

2005-11-28T07:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday after a wacky Holiday weekend!

The Schavis Team spent two very long days - Friday and Saturday - painting the office of our favorite chiropractor and it totally kicked our butts.

DH started the symptoms of a bad cold late day Saturday and was prone from the time we got home late Saturday evening until early this morning. Dutiful Wife that I am, I was forced to stay put near him all day yesterday -- you know, in case he needed anything.

So, since I was too busy to send an entry, I'm first going back to the sky outside my palace window on Friday morning:

What a sight it was and the air was "colder than Blue Hell" as my Mom always says. Not a real pleasant temp for schlepping all the painting equipment to our job. But we pushed ahead -- DH, Jamie and me -- and we finished probably 95% of the job. The 5% problem came from the fact that the paint wouldn't cover in one coat. Oh, we didn't anticipate that glitch. So that put us behind, and then we ran out of paint, and then the local Home Depot couldn't mix the same color as the Home Depot from the next town over -- even though it was a Glidden factory shade from the chart (DUH!) and they also couldn't mix from a scan of the sample (DUH!) -- and so we didn't get finished.

We did cover all the "public" areas so they could open for business today, and we will finish the last bits when we go back for the next phases of the job: Wallpaper removal and repainting the last treatment room, and remodel of the bathroom.

So that brings us up to Sunday. I hear that it was very warm yesterday, but as I said above, I am a Dutiful Wife and did not leave my Darling Husband's side all day (heh, heh).

We (re)watched "Fools Rush In" (LOVE IT!) and another movie that I can't remember, and I worked a stitch or two from time to time.

The project of my affection yesterday was an afghan requested by Texan Nephew No. 2, Mark, a student at the University of Texas at Austin, where they call the student fans, "SOBs"

... or at least they do on the web site, from which I snitched this photo.

After searching many options, I decided on Berroco's Shades of Blue Blanket pattern, but of course in the UT orange and white. I'm using cast-iron Red Heart Super Saver for durability. The blanket is worked in seven panels of two types, cables and bobbles. I started with a cable panel:

... and a close-up of the cabling:
The pattern calls for a length of 51 inches, but I'm thinking I'm go to at least 60, cuz Markasaurus is a right big boy and I want him to like it. You see this all started with him asking if I thought that Granny might make him another afghan in the UT colors. I broached the subject with her, but found that because of bad eyesight she has "retired." What a shame as she turned out tons of crocheted zig-zag beauties that so many people still treasure. (As a matter of fact, DH spent his sick time under a gigantic black, white and red lovely yeseteday.) Anyway, I asked her if she would be offended if I attempted to fill Mark's order and she gave me the go-ahead. So here I am! Luckily I have a good bit of time before graduation, because ya'll know how fickle I am with my knitting projects. Truly, I'm finding it hard to finish even this first panel because I want to try the white bobble pattern -- I've never done bobbles before!

Tomorrow: a look at my interpretation of bobbles.

Another Turkey SAVED!

2005-11-24T21:04:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Chez Schavis where we don't eat turkeys any time of the year ... but we do sup with a bunch o' them at Thanksgiving.

Big smiles (with tinsel) from your hosts, me and Darling Husband:
Here, Granny presides over the requisite Spades Game ... "whenever 2 or more Zamaitis's are gathered, Spades must be played" -- it's part of the Rules and we can't deviate, particularly when a Zamaitis of the Texan varietal is present, whereupon Spades must be played with Beer (and lots of it), and it must be viciously competitive with so much trash talkin' and walls start to close in.

Gin and Mike came for dessert only. There was a big mess about Mike's Mom and him going to cook at her house, but no, it meant he'd have to get up early and you just can't stand the family ALL day, so he would cook at his house and bring it up, but NO then the turkey would be all dry and yucky like last year, so forget it and instead we will have a turkey breast, but NO, I don't want a turkey breast, I want a whole turkey, so I'll just cook my own .... and it goes on.

Finally, he did cook at Ginny's, then she dropped The Danial with us and went back, and then she and Mike came for dessert. But not until they went to KMart! Why, "because it's open." See Mike all sweet and smiley, and Ginny just holding back a barbed comment.

And, of course, The Danial. So big he is; no longer a little guy. With a voice all deep and only cracking a tiny bit. He loves to be measured up against the big uns. Here he sizes up DH:

So we all ate and we all drank and everyone played Spades either before or after dinner, or both; and lots of laughing was done and we were all glad to have been together ... and no turkey was consumed. Happy Thanksgiving to ALL!

Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

2005-11-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

a la The Smashing Pumpkins, this is far different from the malady that has afflicted me these past few days.

Dismal
Dejected
Infinite Sadness
Melancholy

For many, this is a typical Holiday dish ... and I have in fact succumbed to it on occasion. This is an early start for me, however.

This is a popular antidote:

Even though I felt a slight bit better late this morning, I thought it best to be prepared, so a run to Barry's Store was in order. Please note: The store was taken over by a cute Korean guy named John several years ago; furthermore, "Barry" never actually owned the store -- it was his Mom -- but that's what Darling Husband still calls it, so I follow suit.

Anyway, after spending about one and a half hours staining a fence in a windy 38 degrees, I did feel slightly better. Maybe it was the fumes? Maybe it was the fact that I couldn't feel my fingers which thereby took my attention elsewhere?

Well, I'm ready if it comes back.

Yes, of course I know that this "antidote" works for a just a short while after which it pluges the patient farther down into the offending state. So what, it's The Holidays!

Just to be sure I was correctly self-medicating, I checked Merriam-Webster:

1 a : an abnormal state attributed to an excess of black bile and characterized
by irascibility or depression b : BLACK BILE c : MELANCHOLIA
2 a : depression of spirits : DEJECTION b : a pensive mood

An Excess of Black Bile?? Well that's new one on me ... but I'm pretty sure Dewar's can take care of that too.

In happier news ...

DH has a second family that lives behind his shop.

"Moms" comes to the porch nearly every morning and evening (sometimes mid-day too if we're home) and demands a meal. Lately, one of his three babes has been coming along as well.

This is "the fluffy one"

There's a second kit that has the same markings, but is short-haired, and a third that is all black and semi-fluffy.

Just what we need.

In knitting news -- I have so many projects planned that I am running hither and yon and working very little on anything. I finished the second side of the E Cardigan, began a sleeve, and have made tiny progress on one secret gift project. I have spent TONS of time googling for patterns for other planned gift projects ... I must focus!

But first, Thanksgiving. This afternoon I will start putting together some of the dishes for our feast, and will finish up tomorrow with help from our guests that maybe don't know they will have to work.

Hey, there's no free lunch -- but there is a nice supply of Appletini fixins!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAYBIRD!

2005-11-20T17:33:00.001-05:00

Dear Little Jason turns 18 today. His cute Mom was always so good about writing in an age or a date on the backs of pictures, but somehow this one came through unmarked.

I'm not great at this, but he must have been only 2 or so I'm thinking. This is one of my favorites shots of the birthday boy, and (if I'm right on the age guess) I have had it on display somewhere or other for some 16 years.

They said this poor dumb kitty loved Jason and would come across to the yard when he went out to play.

... even so, it looks quite suspect to an old animal rights activist ... and I guess I've never really felt totally comfortable about it ...

Isabella says,

"Try that crap with me and I'll kick your ass!"

Thanksgiving Hen Party

2005-11-20T08:33:00.000-05:00

The Hens visited yesterday. I was so happy to see my Heath looking tip-top after her surgery, but she wasn't quite as perky as her normal self. I'm hoping time will heal all she has been through.

She told us about son Aidan's guinea pigs ... Einstein and Frankenstein -- both females. It is so apparent that little apple Aidan fell extremely close to tree Heather.

Our other recent sick list pal, Quincy, was really in top form:

He ate potato-rice soup, farted heartily, and joyfully attacked the kitties' toys. He looks wonderful and is spirited and carefree. Hurray Q!

We had a fun time eating and talking and eating and visiting our new little rental house.

The Hens consented to a picture at visit's end, but our Heath squawked "I don't want to be on the Internet!" Too bad ... it was the cutest shot of her.

Here's my gals, Heath, Stazi and GG ... along with a non-Hen for comparison:

I discovered again that I really don't know GG, though we have been friends for probably 12 years or so. I was shocked to see her in that cute, cute pink scarf. She tells me she loves pink ... but usually more of the lighter shell tone. I was equally shocked to hear that she is still knitting!

Last year, she picked up on where she had left off as a child many -- I mean just a few short years ago -- on the art of knitting. Unfortunately, she started up with a furry eyelash yarn. Of course, it is nearly impossible to find a lost stitch with that stuff; GG got frustrated, and I thought that was the end of that.

Turns out she was only waiting for cooler weather to return and has rejoined the fold. Unfortunately she didn't bring any of her work to share, but she did donate two unwanted skeins:

Really pretty, huh? But alas the content tag reads "57% Merino Wool, 12% Superkid Mohair ..." Ya'll know -- me, Mavis don't do animal stuff.

Since this was already purchased, I am considering relaxing my objection long enough to knit it up and return it to GG. More on that sometime later.

Our Stazi was a bit subdued it seemed. Only a year ago, her very dear friend, Pat, was nearing the end of her long difficult struggle with a brain tumor. Stazi is often a hard bird to read, but I think it is weighing heavily on her.

On a lighter note, she is probably also bummed out about having to toil on Sunday to unpack and reorganize the law library at which she presides. Having been though the move of a large firm, I can personally attest that it is a nasty business with all the attorneys getting pissy about being put out and most of the admin staff showing their great incompetence. Maybe our meeting gave Staz some gusto!

And so, by the end of our gathering, we had turned a corner. Where previously a meeting of the Hens had coincided with a new Rotten Old Car or Truck Purchase, this time the gavel fell on an eBay SALE for DH. Ahhh, sometimes I love change!

SCORE!

2005-11-18T08:55:00.000-05:00

Looky, Looky Here!

I got me some Calmer .... oooh, it's so wonderful ...

I am greedy.

First, I scored on this dark rose ...

... and then I went for the lighter, delicate blush pink.
I love them, both ... can't decide which is better... and it feels SOOO nice. I don't know what they will become just yet, but since I don't anticipate a lot of yarn-eating cable stuff for either, I have enough of each to make just about anything I want!

But wait there's More!

Did I tell you that Yarn Garden was having their Fall Sale?

Now you see where this is going.

I also got this:

The pattern I bought last year -- it's a "Yankee Knitter" for an aran style sweater with twisted rib, seed stitch, cable, wishbone and blackberry stitch. I really dig it and have finally found the yarn that I think will work beautifully. Lovely colonial blue, huh? It's called "Toddler Aran", I'm assuming the "toddler" part is because it's NOT WOOL and so easily washable. That fits me on two fronts. One, ya'll know I don't do wool, and two, I can have less worries about slobbering chocolate or something down the front, cuz it will go right into the washing machine.

Last ... I found this adorable pattern with fat cables and convenient button-up shoulders. (Did I tell ya'll that my sweet niece, Michelle, is expecting a wee one?)

I got enough of the oatmeal shade to make the sweater and hat in the 1-2 year size. I'll be watching for perfect buttons in a unisex theme. I like this sweater enough to hope that it might become a hand-me-down for the 10 or so babes that are surely to follow Michelle and George's first.

So, what am I working on now?

Secret holiday gift stuff that I can't share. Rats!

But soon ...