Almost back to normal

The people part of my life has calmed to some degree. Now, its Stanley's turn to have some minor surgery and a dental cleaning. He and I were at the vet before 7AM this morning. Hopefully his recovery will go smoothly.

I'm finally back in the mood to knit. The rainy Saturday brought us some cool, crisp, autumn weather. I visited Yarnings in Skippack, PA after seeing their advertisement for Noro Kureyon Sock yarn. Bought one skein and happily returned to my knitting room where I spent most of my weekend. I now have a spiral, ribbed tube sock started using size 2 needles. "After Bertha," is the perfect pattern for me to get back the feel of knitting with toothpicks and also a great way to see how the colors...greens, blues, blacks, pinks, and golds swirl through the sock. I promise to make its mate! While I was working on the sock, I kept staring at my yarn stash and spotted a skein of gorgeous, teal colored, baby alpaca purchased a few years ago at a TNNA show. That is now in the process of becoming a "Victorian Shoulderette" for Rachel. At some point I will learn how to use the digital camera to take photos.

I'm slowly getting familiar with using Ravelry and am tracking my new projects there. Both my yarn stash and knitting library are so extensive, that it will take a lifetime to enter everything. I may just pass on that. I'm wondering if other knitters feel that way.

Guess I'll go back to my knitting before I leave for work.

In a funk

Rachel had a fun party with her friends this past weekend. She made four trays of delicious stuffed shells and two yummy birthday cakes. It was nice to see her enjoying herself.

I returned to work last week, but have cut back on hours. Between Marvin's medical stuff and my achy legs, its a good thing, But, my schedule is erratic, so that makes for some weirdness. I'm knitting in my spare time trying to complete WIPS. Also, keeping a watchful eye on Marvin. He doesn't like that, but as far as I'm concerned he doesn't have choice. I'm in a bit of a funk and wish I could muster up some motivation to get back to healthy eating and exercise. Where has my self-discipline gone?

Rachel's trip to Israel was confirmed. She leaves Dec 30 and returns Jan 10. Karen, her best friend in the whole wide world, is studying in Jerusaleum. Hopefully they can connect, but Rachel knows safety is paramount. We will not permit her to leave the security of the tour group.

I guess I should get ready for work. Tonight I'll continue knitting the sleeve of a top down, V-neck pullover for Rachel when I get home.

18 years old

Where did the time go? Rachel is 18 years old today. I vividly remember her just becoming 2 years old. I love her so much. We spent the weekend just being together. It was nice and relaxing. We splurged and bought her the perfect COACH bag and some earrings. This morning I baked a yellow cake with Rachel's favorite chocolate icing.

As for knitting, I did buy two skeins of gorgeous llama soft yarn in Rachel's favorite blue color...now to decide on something to make for her, or convince her to let me buy enough for a sweater.