Knitty Delicious

6 months of blog-cation...I'm BACK!

2009-04-20T16:34:00.008-04:00

I don't really know what it was...but I clearly needed a blog break. To quote my friends Greenie and Golic, "we are back and better than ever."

It has been 6 months to the day since my last entry. Honestly, I was missing Knitty Delicious and looking for a way to reconnect with her (me). So I've decided to return to that which I know and am comfortable with. I'm toying around with a new name, new host, new layout (WENDY can be so helpful with this)...but for now, we will stick to that which we know.

So, update...We are fine.

Here are the babies

We joined the Chester Ave Dog Park http://chesteravenuedogpark.com/ in February. We have really been enjoying our romps and meeting new friends (furry and human). Despite Finn tipping the scales at 67lbs, he has been "attacked" a few times by his nemesis, Ella, a yellow lab with the longest legs I've ever seen. On the positive side, Maggie has transformed from a nervous nelly to a confident, interested and still a bit nervous lady. She is very popular at the dog park, especially with her friend Lou, the "Jug" (Jack Russell/Pug). Gus just bides his visits to the park rolling in the dirt and making himself filthy.

Gus and Finn continue to do their therapy dog work with me. We branched out recently and did a program at CHOP for kids with CP and autism spectrum disorders. We also visited a nursing home! The scope and range of need at these different settings in remarkable...and everytime, the dog brings out the person.

I've been knitting and sewing and quilting...perhaps the blog should be called "Crafty Delicious?"

Well the quilting is brand new...Trish and I are taking "private" lessons with Ilana at Spool. We are making Amy Butler's "Brick Path Quilt"

This pattern is available free at Amy's website http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/mainmenu.php

Our first class consisted of lots and lots of cutting. Now we are charged with "arranging our squares in a pleasing manner." Here is what I've come up with so far

I think the actual product is going to end up being about 12 squares by 12 squares. Trish and I will be working on final layouts at my office next Monday, as neither of us has enough space to make the whole thing come to life in our homes.

What else...I visited with Robin and Ronnen in San Francisco in February and went to Stitches West. It was awesome and likely to become a yearly ritual. It was my first trip to California and I loved it...if only (1) the ground didn't shake and (2) there weren't SO many states between Massachusetts and California...I would totally relocate!

And, we Bach's added to our beagle-brood. Please help me welcome Barclay Mckee Henry Bach. Barclay was adopted from the Penn Vet 3rd year surgery lab. He's had a few procedures and contributed to the education of future vets. Now he has "retired" to the Joy House and lovely Cape Cod. He is bonding with his parents (Little Petey and Barb) and his sibs, Luther and Rory. He discovers new things every day and has a special affinity for toys, the outdoors and dog beds.

Me and Mr. B...

So all in all...that is what is up with me...we will see how things unfold with resuming Knitty Delicious...

The Elusive Beagle-o-Saurus

2008-10-20T16:57:00.002-04:00

Press Release

Malvern, PA.

Beagle-saurus cited at Beaglefest.

Gus Bach, formerly known as the "King of Beagles" and "Rockstar Therapy Dog," was cited transforming into the elusive beaglesaurus yesterday at the infamous event, Beaglefest.

No one was harmed in the transformation to beagle-o-saurus, but some were said to be freightened by his "heinous bark/howl."

Gus was not available for comments, other than:

We attempted to reach the Bach Beagles for comment after Beaglefest; this is what we found-

EXHAUSTED BEAGLES!!!

THANKS TO BREW FOR SUCH A GREAT EVENT!!!!

PHILLIES RULE!!!

2008-10-06T09:20:00.004-04:00

OMG. I am beside myself. I can't believe the Phillies are going to the NLCS!

I actually got to go to game 2 last Thursday evening. It was THE MOST AMAZING GAME I have ever been to.

Then on Saturday, we went to Chickie and Pete's to watch the game, with our favorite side dish; CRAB FRIES!
Even Gabriel joined in the fun

Yes there was a lot of face painting. And yes, we had to wait until Sunday for the Phils to end the Brewers season...and Sunday was awesome! Here's to Pat "the bat" Burrell and his two long balls.

So I say, BRING ON MANNY and the DODGERS!!!

I love October baseball

Happy Birthday Lady Maggie!

2008-09-12T09:44:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th Birthday lovely girl! Thanks to BREW (as always) for bringing her to me. Unlike most folks, I know from the lab paperwork that this is Maggie's actual, real birthday!

Maggie and Luther have a special bond. We call them "the old married couple." Here they are playing tug'o'war.

Maggie is an excellent snuggler. She will even wrap herself up tight and snuggle herself!!

Maggie also loves her brothers, Finney and Gus (in the back)

Enjoy your special day baby girl!!!

Love

Mom

Return of the YARN SLUT

2008-09-05T14:01:00.003-04:00

Yes, the yarn slut has reared her "ugly" head.

In an apparent "F-You" to sewing, I've become obsessed with knitting again. The problem continues to be my inability to finish projects and my affinity for starting new ones.

Currently on needles:
"Seraphim" by Miriam Felton in Lorna's Laces Helen's Lace
"Lace Ribbon Scarf" by Veronik...in Koigu Mouri
"February Lady Sweater" in Berroco Ultra Merino
"Lacey Bell Pullover" in some Cherry Tree Hill yarn (I bought this at least 5 years ago)
"Entrelac Extravaganza Stole" in Kureyon
"Kimono Shawl" in Anne...

I need and intervention.

So, just like any other sane knitter, I bought more yarn...
(in my defense I hadn't bought yarn in a long time...)

I bought Berroco Ultra Alpaca for the "Foliage Shawl" also from Miriam Felton.
I bought some Manos silk blend for a scarf I found on ravelry.
I bought some O-Wool for ANOTHER scarf I found on ravelry.

And today, the piece d'resistance...I noticed my friends at Blue Moon are dying Pucks Mischief STR again...I've been following from a distance the Charlotte's Web KAL in STR. Like my friend Wendy, I wanted to make this shawl in one colorway of a varigated yarn. So I bought 3 skeins of STR lightweight in Puck...my all time fave STR colorway

Now I just have to figure out that pattern.

And stitches is just two months away...

My new puter

2008-08-23T18:00:00.001-04:00

I got a bran new computer today and it has this funky link to write blogs with...so I'm giving it a try. Dad and I also just did our first web cam enabled chat, however we were not able to hear each other. I did see Rory and Luther and up dad's nose though. We will figure the sound out soon enough.

Why a new 'puter? Well, my laptop is still very functional, but maxed out completely between Itunes and photos and other programs (it has a very small hard-drive). Plus, with teaching at Temple again and course development projects I'm working on for Penn Vet and Sp2, it was time to upgrade to a home base desktop computer with oodles of storage. I'll still use the laptop for what it is for, portability.

I also got the 22inch monitor which is really unreal.

Well that is it for now...Jen, Cesi and Julianna are visiting and we are heading to the Continental Midtown for early dinner. More as I discover cool crap on the new 'puter.

Happy Birthday Finney!!! Happy Birthday Rory!!!

2008-08-15T11:26:00.004-04:00

It is hard to believe, but the moose-ox is 1 year old today!!!
Happy Birthday Finney! And Happy Birthday to your sister Rory too!
You have changed my life in so many ways sweetie and I love you and your antics very much...now, STOP EATING THINGS!

Vacation...all I ever wanted

2008-08-02T08:23:00.012-04:00

I've been "on Cape" for the last week or so...enjoying the summer, salty breezes and working my tail off at the bed and breakfast. Mom was away last weekend, so "chef Christina" was on duty. Dad and I worked great together and kept the inn ship shape.

Rory enjoys helping with the dishes :

We had a few days off with no guests earlier this week, so mom and I took a day trip to Newport, Rhode Island to look at rich people's homes.

We started off at the Breakers, summer home to the Vanderbilts way back in the early 1900's. The home is spectacular, with huge vistas looking out over the ocean. The inside covered in gilded everything...with amazing paintings and the most awesome bathtubs, all cut from a single piece of marble, that I've ever seen. Sadly, you are not permitted to take photos inside; but here are a few of the outside...

Oh, how the other half lives... Next we headed to Rosecliff. We were thrilled to discover that this is the only air conditioned mansion in Newport (it was a very humid day). Our tour guide was 102 years old and the stories he was relaying to us about the mansion were so engrained in his head, that when he got thrown off subject, he completely forgot where he was or what he was saying. Rosecliff is the only mansion that can be rented out by us commoners for events like weddings...starting at around $10,000 (just for the building!). It was more manageable than the Breakers and easier to imagine people actually living in. Most gorgeous though, the gardens...it reminded me of English gardens, though on a much smaller scale.

Next we headed to the Green Animals Topiary Garden. Now this was the garden I'd been hoping to see since touring the gardens of Hever Castle, Powerscourt (Ireland) and the Isle of Skye. The best part though, the amazing topiary figures of animals, chairs, policemen and more.

And that was just the topiaries! Then there were the flowers...the gardens included periennials, a dahlia garden, a rose gardens and a cutting garden.

It was a lovely way to end our day in Newport. We are planning to return at Christmas time to tour Marble House and the Elms, when they are all decorated for the holidays.

I've been sewing (made 1 skirt and two aprons so far) and mom and I went to a quilt show the other day. I'm going to post about those exploits on the "new" Philly sewing blog, "Feeddoggle" started by my pal Kathy (http://www.feeddoggle.com/).

I FINALLY finished reading "Confederates in the Attic" and have now started reading "The Labrador Pact."

And, after 12 years, I went to the eye doctor. And...I got glasses. For all close work. I am a GOMER!!!

I'm here for another week, but starting my continuing ed classes on Monday and in the back of my mind, I know I need to work on my syllabus as I start teaching again one month from today...but there is so much more knitting and sewing to do.

Oh my goodness I didn't even mention the animals!!!!

Here, we have small, medium and large:

Rory, Gus and Finney

The dogs are having an awesome time together...they are such a pack!

And Thursday evening, we went to the turtle races...

Dad's turtle, Mr. Slowsky (number 7) won a prize for coming in last place!!!

As you can see, the days (and nights) are just packed!

KnittyD is...

2008-07-30T09:26:00.001-04:00

on vacation...

More to follow when I actually FEEL like typing...

My 600th post...and I've got CRABS!

2008-07-14T15:01:00.006-04:00

No...not those kind of crabs! SICKOS!!!

These...

The Liebman's head down to Havre de Grace a few times each season to Price's for yummy crabs (covered in Old Bay of course), crab cakes, cream of crab soup and crab ice cream (just kidding). It was awesome...more photos...

And the best thing...this place has my FAVORITE beer from Scotland...

It was one happy, yummy day! Thanks Liebmans!!!

Trish got married!!!

2008-07-12T08:53:00.004-04:00

My old and dear friend Trish recently eloped to Banff with her beau Arthur. In a lovely ceremony (I assume), they said their "I do's." It was perfect for these two love birds to be alone, on a mountain side, pledging their devotion to each other. The only thing that was missing, their friends and family.

So, last night, Trish's parents through a ROCKIN' party for the newlyweds. It was small, intimate and totally focused on celebrating Trish and Arthur (ie NOT the dress, flowers, photography, dj, favors etc.).

Congrats my friends! It was truly AWESOME to be part of the celebration of your marriage.

Welcome to the World Alex!!

2008-07-11T11:48:00.006-04:00

Last night, I met my new BFF, Alexander Rana Mutreja; son of Carolyn and Ranu and little brother to Justin.

Alex looks identical to Justin in infancy...he loves his Auntie Bach

And his Auntie Trish:

And his Aunt Header...who hoped that baby Alex would coax little baby Klusimpson out of the womb...
He is lovely and amazing! My uterus is twitching...there it stopped!

The Party's Over

2008-07-06T17:59:00.006-04:00

YEAH! We survived and had an awesome party...despite having to BBQ in the rain...

Thanks to Glen for trying (in vain) to keep me dry

Mike manned the charcoal grill and dealt with the suicidal hotdogs that chose to roll off the grill, rather than be eaten by hungry party goers.

Alan and Mike brave the elements

The food was great...I've never seen so many middle aged people fawn over a chocolate fountain so ferociously. We also had gorgeous fruit baskets from Edible Arrangements.

Here are more random party photos

Of course, little Petey's eyes are closed...

Juliana and Me! She has a white girl-fro!

So, yeah it is over and was a raging success. I am now retiring from my brief career as party planner extraordinaire.

In other Cape Cod news...it's humid, moist, wet, close...NASTY!

I often find myself wanting to retreat to the confines of the Captain's quarters where I am sleeping and pumping the A/C. Today, I napped with 5 beagles and sadly watch my Roger lose to Nadal in 5 stunning sets in the Wimbeldon final.

Heading home Tuesday...and will be back to Cape Cod in two and half weeks...hopefully it won't be so humid.

One week...

2008-06-27T12:13:00.003-04:00

...since I last blogged and SOOOOO much has been going on!

Last Saturday, I made a skirt...a whole skirt. And, it fits (kinda...it's too big and I need to move the "button hole" that I wrap it through) But, I love it and it is gorgeous and comfy and I feel very accomplished. I'm planning on wearing it for my parents party next weekend.

Sunday, I went to the Phillies game with Car, Ranu, Trish, Arthur and Heather. We sat in the FRONT ROW on top of the Phillies dugout. Sure, we lost...but they were the most amazing seats EVER. I will post photos in a bit...but let's just say, I was able to do some quality stalking of Patty and Jason.

Monday Gus passed his therapy dog test! Congrats to Gussy! You are a ROCK STAR!

Last night, I finished the tote bags for mom, Ali, Grandma and Jenni. Then decided I needed to make a little girl bag for Juliana...which I'll work on tonight.

Now I'm getting geared up for Cape Cod next week and THE PARTY!!! Yeah!

Congrats to Trish and Arthur on their wedding! Can't wait to see the photos
Still no babies to brag about.

Shiba Date

2008-06-20T10:08:00.006-04:00

Last night, I went over to my work pal Kathy's for sewing and Shibas. Shibas are Shiba Inu's; and Kathy has two of them. They are very special little doggies...

Meet Yoshi:

ans Tsuki :

Oh psycho eyes

They are very cute and fluffy and hairy. Their shedding reminded me of the way Maxie used to shed.

Sew, Kathy taught me how to make a zippered bag last night. Zippers are hard. I guess that with practice they get easier...and I did feel accomplished to have actually got the damn thing together. It matches my tote bag too!

Yeah for me! Will need guidance to make another FOR SURE!

This morning there was a cute little kitten in the office...hopefully today he will get a home. Meet Frankie

And a couple of days ago, Jacob and Julie came over to meet the beagles.

Isn't he handsome! We had a good time

I've also been knitting a lot...working feverishly on the February Lady Sweater.

Ode to the Seam Ripper

2008-06-10T10:07:00.003-04:00

Since I've been sewing...all of about three weeks now, I have developed a close, personal relationship with the seam ripper. I encourage all new sewers to do the same, as this odd looking little device really is the most wonderful thing in the world of sewing. We don't have its equivalent in knitting...sure we frog things like mad, but there is something about actually DESTROYING the stitches that you have screwed up that is strangely therapeutic.

Last night I made two more pillows and I LOVE THEM! They were super easy. I used the "envelope pillow" pattern from S.E.W. Everything Workshop (a great book for beginners recommended to me by sewing com-patriot Kathy. I'm obsessed with them because I can actually follow the pattern and make something UNSUPERVISED. Very exciting.

Next up, a wrap skirt???

Tonight though, I'm knitting...laying in front of the air conditioner, watching the Phillies and knitting...

Please let this be the last day of the heat wave.

Sew Super--The Tote Bag

2008-06-08T21:32:00.004-04:00

Trish and I completed, rather successfully, our beginning sewing class today.

Besides having to battle the crowds and closed streets thanks to the "UDUNDE" festival, we tolerated the heat, downed a couple of massive iced coffees and ROCKED IT OUT.

Not only did we complete our class project, a lined tote bag, but we came back to my "sewing/knitting/scrapping studio" and each made ANOTHER bag...Trish's for her sister and mine for momala.

Here is the fruit of our labor:

Yeah, we are taking orders...

Finn says goodnight...

HEAT WAVE!

2008-06-06T11:29:00.004-04:00

It's official...Philly is headed for our first heat wave of the summer starting tomorrow. I've already made plans to spend the day in Carolyn's pool. Sunday will be spent at Spool (for my second beginning sewing class) and then in the air conditioning in my hobby space.

I've become a little obsessed with sewing, though officially I don't really get it. Some of the terms in the patterns are completely incomprehensible. And the dexterity required for certain things is beyond the managability of my fat fingers...but I press on. Press...get it.

Anyway, this morning I was watching "Mike and Mike in the Morning" on ESPN2. Now I have a big crush on Mike Greenberg...and this morning, is was solidified when he said this about my Phillies, "that team has a lot of heart...they are fun to watch." Thanks Mike. I love you. The Phillies get VERY little press on ESPN (its all Yankees, Red Sox and recently the Cubs), so I am touched.

Susan and I went to the "businessperson's special" yesterday and saw Cole Hamels pitch a gem of a three hitter and Ken Griffey Jr miss his 600th home run by about 2 feet. There were crab fries, Bull's BBQ and ice cream...it was awesome to play hookie.

Going to see "Sex and the City" later with El...then watch the Phillies take on the Braves while I sit in front of the air conditioner.

Stay cool!

Sand and Sewing

2008-05-27T08:53:00.007-04:00

Today is my last day of vacation of the Cape...driving back to Philly does not count as vacation.

I took Finney to the beach yesterday. He is so shy around other (stranger) dogs. It is so strange since he is so active and playful with the rest of the pack here.

It was VERY windy at the beach. The sand was whipping around...so we didn't stay long. I snapped a few good shots...

The wind was really blowing those monster ears!

Dad and I also went to Sundae School for our inaugural Coffee Oreo Frozen Yogurt Hot Fudge Sundaes

YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

And, I've finished sewing 6 (yes SIX) pillows for my couch at home.

Mom decided that putting zippers in was the way to go (no hand stitching...I couldn't agree more...but I'm not ready for the zipper foot...so I let her handle that). The pillows are cute and fun and I feel like I've gotten some of the basics down (like putting the RIGHT sides together and sewing on the wrong side).

Another thing I don't love...ironing. Guess that is going to have to change since you have to press EVERYTHING...

God I look so serious sitting behind that sewing machine...

So today...packing...knitting...reading...sleeping...beagles...for one more day

My muses

2008-05-25T20:03:00.004-04:00

It has been a gorgeous weekend up here on the Cape...mild and breezy...with clear blue skies and lots of time outdoors with the beagles.

Of course, they have been posing...here are a few of my favorite beagle moments

Luther Aloysius Morten Bach

Finnegan enjoys his first summer vacation on the cape

Don't give me that look Gus!

Maggie...looking as cute and gorgeous as always

Maggie and Rory have a drink out of the fountain
Maggie's ears are blowing in the wind
Gus enjoys laying out on the cushions in the sun
Finn enjoys the smells of the fresh Cape air
Rory is exhausted!

The sewing is coming along. I've finished two pillows and have four more ready to put together tomorrow...but have to buy more pillow forms/stuffing...so I'm off to Jo-Anns again tomorrow. I'm looking forward to my first sewing class at Spool next Sunday. I am also feeling more confident with making bobbins and threading my machine, doing it tonight without referring to the manual. But what I've decided I do hate...cutting. I am not good a scissors. They feel bulky and awkward in my hands, and being a lefty, it makes it that much more of a challenge. I'm intrigued by the rotary cutters...but want more of a tutorial before I invest.

Also picked up a great book (thanks mom) called "Confederates in the Attic." It's nonfiction and has been keeping me very entertained...between the knitting...sewing...and napping.

Speaking of knitting...I'm going to catch up on the Tudors and get some knitting done.

Ah...the Cape

2008-05-23T07:25:00.008-04:00

It's been a week of celebrating and good times. The doggies and I made it safely to the Cape and I received my awesome birthday present from my sister Ali...my sewing machine!

I had my first lesson yesterday and learned how to thread the machine and make a bobbin. I played with the stitch setting and mom even showed me how to turn a corner! I need to familiarize myself with the terminology of sewing (which I keep referring to as knitting). Mom, Grandma and I are heading to Joann's today to purchase some bobbins and needles and maybe even a pattern for a VERY simple project.

Tuesday night was dinner with the gang at Marra's

Thanks to everyone! I had an awesome time!

It was a great birthday. Earlier in the day, I gave a tour of VHUP to a very special pal of mine from Ronald McDonald House. Whenever I asked her what she thought, she responded, "it's amazing." L...you reminded me why I became a social worker...thanks to you and your mom for a very special gift.

Last night, we went to the Ocean House for dinner...this is the view

And this was my chocolate cake with caramel "goo"

I also have been knitting...finally making progress with the Hex-Shawl from JoJoLand. I'm on the third (of 76) Hexagons. Once you get the stitches cast on for each hex, it goes very quickly and is very easy. My recommendation---magic loop and a good set of 32 inch Addi Turbo's. Don't cast on to tightly!!!

The sun in out and I think it is time for a soak in the hot tub...enjoy the Holiday weekend everyone!

1460

2008-05-20T13:04:00.001-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

In 1460 days I will be 40!

And apparently Carolyn ordered a huge cake!

I can't wait!!!!!

meltdown, models and such

2008-05-15T12:00:00.005-04:00

I've been kind of crazy this week. Work has been busy and I've found myself becoming very attached to a client at Ronald McDonald House. As a result, I drove directly to Allegro's last night, bought two slices of pizza and a piece of cake and proceeded to self medicate with food and the season finale of "America's Next Top Model...congrats to the first "full figured (size 8/10)" winner, Whitney! Said meltdown was managed...until 330am when I was WIDE awake and thinking way too much for my own good. Insomnia continues to suck ass.

HAPPY 9 month birthday Moose...I mean Finnegan! I snapped this photo this am of Gus and Finn spooning...I've never actually seen them do this!

And here he is smiling

And just being the cutest beagle-basset-moose-alligator mix EVER!

So, I'm having lunch at Au Bon Pain on Tuesday, when Ellen says to me, "BEHIND YOU!"

It was Kal Penn...my Indian Love Fantasy. He's been at Penn teaching a seminar all semester and now he was sitting behind me at Au Bon Pain, looking at my cute dog Gussy and acting like any other Joe Schmo having lunch on Locust Walk. Here is the photographic evidence. I apologize for the quality and the stealthness of the photos...but I didn't want to seem like a stalker.

That's him behind me in the yellow tshirt and baseball cap. I LOVE YOU KUMAR!!!!

Heather's shower is Saturday! So much to do...can't wait to post photos of her knitted gifts...more to follow

Delusions

2008-05-08T12:33:00.003-04:00

So, I might be having major delusions of grandour or just be really stoned as to how much knitting I can do (in reality).

Since I was so organized and behaved at Sheep and Wool...thanks to Ravelry...I've now completed my up and coming knitting list...

1) Finish Lotus Blossom, Pi Shawl and Ribbon Scarf---Already on needles

2) Start Swirl Shawl and Seraphim while on vacation in two weeks

3) Then start Birch and Baltic Sea Stole

I want to accomplish all of these by my vacation beginning July 26th when I will

4) Re-pick up Entrelac Stole, Modern Quilt Wrap and Bell Sleeve Sweater (all already in progress)

Meanwhile

5) I will think about the Twinnings Stole and all the things I didn't actually finish, like Kimono Shawl.

So...am I crazy?

Good intentions

2008-05-07T11:32:00.003-04:00

I had EVERY intention of blogging and posting photos from last Friday's Phils game and Maryland Sheep and Wool. I even put my camera in my bag. When I got to work, I opened it to get the memory card out and, the slot was empty! So no photos today, just descriptive witty banter.

I can't believe it is already the 7th of May. Holy Christina Day is fast approaching! Only 13 shopping days left!! haha!

Sheep and Wool was LOADS of fun. I think Mom really enjoyed herself. Maryland certainly has a different feeling than Rhinebeck...more like a fair. I LOVE that we set up "camp bach" in the same place every year and that folks just stop by, knit, eat and visit.

I scored some interesting yarn. I was reserved too! I only spent CASH! No charging anything! I'm very proud and will be even happier when the credit card bill comes next month!

Swag included
Mill ends of silk in a cranberry/wine color---may become Swallowtail. I have about 540 yards. Would be gorgeous for warmer weather.

Alpaca with a twist Lace weight...YUMMMMMMM

Jojoland Melody and Swirl Shawl Pattern (straight from my Ravelry Queue)

Several patterns

Silly buttons I can't find

Festival tote bag

Festival hat

Brownies

It's boring without the photos...will post later.

Congrats to Trish for liberating herself from HUP! Welcome to the world after HUP---life really is sweeter on this side!

Dogs are good...Finney came to work with me yesterday. I took him over to the hospital and weighed him...he's slowing down, but now has reached Moose status at 51.8 lbs!!!!! He enjoys walking to and from work and flirting shamelessly with every PERSON he encounters. He still has a bit of strange dog phobia...

We go to Cape Cod in a few weeks for vacation...Finney will meet the fountain...I told daddio I was having fears of him falling in. I also want to take him to the beach and see what he does...

Almost done knitting pi shawl for Nan, former HUP secretary who is retiring next week. Pattern is great and quick to knit, but I'm getting bored and am also anxious to finish Lotus Blossom so I can start Seraphim and Swirl Shawl while on vacation.

I see lots of blocking in my future!

Mom is now on Ravelry! Send her a note or add her to your friends---her username is barbbach and her avatar is priceless!

Another visit to the bridge

2008-04-26T14:32:00.004-04:00

Harry Beary O'Carey Reilly Bach aka "the cowardly lion" went to the Rainbow Bridge this morning. Late last night he lost use of his rear legs. Mom and Dad kept him comfortable through the night, loved him and said their good byes. The vet confirmed their fears, he had ruptured another disc in his back. At his age, surgery would not be appropriate and there was no guarantee he would survive, let alone recover.

My parents made the most difficult decision and gave Harry the most wonderful gift.
He joins his family at the bridge, Casey, Max, Molly and Murphy.

Take care of each other...run, howl, eat all the greenies you can, and know we will all be together again some day.

We love you Harry...I will miss you and all the things that made you the King of the Six Pack.

Spring...

2008-04-24T09:23:00.004-04:00

I am loving the Spring. It's been warm and breezy and GORGEOUS. My street looks amazing now that the dogwood are blooming. Sadly the daff's and tulips are just about done, so I have so major gardening to do this weekend...(hint to mother of rotini, help is much appreciated!)

And my favorite rite of spring, Maryland Sheep and Wool is NEXT WEEKEND. I can't believe it. I am even more excited because my MOM is coming with us this year!!! Speaking of mom, she's on Ravelry now, barbbach is her user name...so yes, you too can be friends with mom of knittyd!

I just returned from the Veterinary Social Work Conference in Knoxville, TN. First off, Knoxville is a lovely little town...and a college town at that. The University of Tennessee was having its orange and white (scrimmage) game on Saturday and the entire town was bleeding orange and white. The coolest thing I found out though, is the Univ of Tennessee, aside from being the alma mater of Peyton Manning, has a mascot named Smokey. Smokey is a blue ticked hound that bares a STRIKING resemblance to one Mr Finnegan Bach.

Cool, huh?

Anyway, after the conference, I'm now moderating the veterinary social work listserv. I'm proud to say after just 3 days we have over 30 members! It is great to have this discourse!

I am on chart 5 of 6 in Lotus Blossom!!!! It is knitting up so quickly and is just gorgeous! I see it being done in the next week or so...maybe by sheep and wool? Then on to Seraphim!

Okay, must do some work!

New photos of the most amazing barking dogs in the world

2008-04-14T09:24:00.001-04:00

WATCH OUT THEY ARE FEROCIOUS AND RABID!!

19th Nervous Breakdown

2008-04-13T10:01:00.002-04:00

So after I wrote that lovely blog about my selfish knitting, it came back to bite me in the ass.

I F***ed up Maude, AGAIN.

I F***ed up Sarcelle and decided I hated it in Helen's Laces...and that on those needles it would take an ETERNITY to knit.

And I decided I hated the Dale of Norway rectangle shawl. All of this happenend in about 5 minutes last Friday night. My answer...to have a Spring rebirth.

I put Maude away again. When I saw Courtney the other day and she could see the look of sadness on my face, she was sure maybe one of the dogs had eaten it...I WISH FINN WOULD EAT MAUDE! (that is a little dirty isn't it!)

I decided to put these projects that were not, 1) bringing any joy to my knitting life 2) sucking my will to live and 3) were making wonder why I knit at all, far, far away.

Into the stash I dove, and I found the gorgeous Peacock color Alpaca Silk that Wendy and Robin gave me for my birthday last year. I looked at my Ravelry Queue and decided this would become Lotus Blossom. So far so good. I will certainly buy Fiddlesticks knitting patterns again...very easy to follow; great charts etc. I'm almost done with chart 2 of 5 and I LOVE IT.

I also put together 2 awesome colorways of Socks that Rock for a Chevron Scarf (Last Minute Knitted Gifts). This will be my airplane knitting...oh yeah, going to Tennessee this week.

I also purchased Seraphim and will be starting that in Helen's Laces, colorway Devon. I'm feeling better all in all about my knitting abilities and my love of the craft. Now if I could just stay away from the Koigu silk blend...

In other news

My neighbors are driving me crazy. They hate all dogs...especially those that bark...oh wait, that IS all dogs. Eliza Jane seems to know JUST how to push my buttons and make me feel crabby and angry and vulnerable. Bottom line is, I live here, I have 3 dogs...sometimes there are six dogs...I didn't buy this house to be surrounded by screaming children...but 10 years later, I am surrounded my lots of little ones...so I'm thinking, should I start calling her everytime her kids cry? She also has a tendency to embellish the situations...bottom line is BEATCH, that I was home much of the day yesterday and the dogs WERE NOT BARKING all day. F***ing get a life! It is NOT A TSUNAMI!

My IBS is raging again (TMI I know)

Did I mention I'm going to Tennessee on Thursday...? ugh...

One good thing, I went to the Phils game last night and saw Cole Hamels pitch a JEM of a game...Phils won 7-1...it was awesome. Even better, Jen scored us Bob's boss' seats...in the 14th row, behind Ryan Howard...it was SWEET!

So it seems, in general, that I have the April blahs...at least Sheep and Wool is only 3 weekends away...

April is for selfish knitting

2008-04-04T09:18:00.002-04:00

So, I've finished the two big baby projects for Heather and have now decided to devote April knitting to ME...ME...ME.

I picked up Maude again...thanks for the encouragement and coaching Courtney. I managed to knit 3 rows last night without major incident (knock on wood). I want to wear Maude on my birthday...

I am also working on a Dale of Norway lace shawl pattern; also in Koigu. God I love Koigu. I can't get enough of it.

Also working S-L-O-W-L-Y on Sarcelle...which I call my "concentration" knitting.

It's nice to put the emphasis back on me.

Yeah Phillies! First victory was hard fought and exciting...thanks to the Nats for walking in that winning run...there is NOTHING as exciting as a walk off walk, is there?

It's wet and gross out today and supposed to be like this for much of the day tomorrow. I encouraged the babies to spend the day sleeping as I would like to be...can't wait to go home for naptime.

47.5

2008-04-03T11:34:00.003-04:00

So, when over a VHUP the other day giving mom and dad the grand tour, we weighed Finn.

He weighed in at...47.5 pounds!

Beagle basset my ass...he is a beagle bison alligator mix.

Rory, Harry and Luther visited and I snapped a few cute pictures...

As you can see, Finn is at least twice Rory's size...but at leasy they still fit in the recliner together.

And here is the old married couple, Lady Margaret and Lord Luther. They totally adore each other and snuggled for much of the day yesterday.

During nap time, I slept with 5 of the six pack. Harry is certainly an elder statesman...he chose to stay downstairs on the couch rather than take on the stairs mid day. He did snuggle with me last night though.

It was a quick visit for mom and dad. They went to see "Young Frankenstein" in NYC yesterday. I am very proud of their ability to navigate their trip and return in one piece.

They are on their way back to the Cape now...The Philly dogs miss the rest of the six pack already...poor Finn seemed so depressed this morning...for about 5 minutes.

Flash Gordon SUCKS

2008-04-01T11:45:00.011-04:00

Yesterday was a high holy day:

Phillies Opening day at Citizens Bank Park.

Of course I had tickets.

It was Ellen's first opening day! Thanks for bailing little Petey!

The weather was lovely!

Perfect for opening day...wet, windy and cool (not cold). But the wet was really just a "mist" that subsided by the time we had parked and headed into the ballpark.

We headed right to my favorite spot: Chickie and Pete's for Crab Fries

And became one with the cheese cup

I also had my inaugural hot dog This one is for you Trish.

There was lots of pomp and circumstance; including what I thought was a giant slip and slide...

Sadly it was just MLB's version of a "red carpet." I still think it would have been better to have them run and slide in for an entrance.

There was one army jumper and a really big flag

And then it was time to play ball.

And yes, Chase and Jimmy both hig homeruns and yes, we were tied going into the ninth inning after brilliant pitching by JC Romero. And then, Flash crapped on our parade.

I know it's a long season...161 games to go...countdown to 100 losses, 99.

I love this team.

You 'outta be in a magazine article

2008-03-26T19:28:00.002-04:00

Me and my group are famous!!!

http://www.obit-mag.com/news.php?id=241

Thanks to Mike for the awesome write up and wonderful tribute to my clients and their pets!!!!

The Siblings

2008-03-24T15:54:00.004-04:00

Can't tell they are sibs at all...can you????

Finish Phobic or Lack of Inspiration

2008-03-18T17:07:00.002-04:00

Wow...two blog posts in one day. I'm killing time before tonight's pet loss group and I was surfing around on Ravelry. There are so many gorgeous things out there to knit...and god knows I have enough yarn to pretty much knit it all. But lately I have found myself unable to finish a damn thing. I must have started like 6 different scarves over the past few months...all of them have maybe 10-30 rows done and then I just...lost interest. I was making good progress on the bell sleeve pullover I found in the UFOs...but now it is nearing the end of March and I know darn well I won't be wearing that sweater until next Winter...so why finish it now? In fact, let's take an inventory of crap I need to finish:

Stuff for Heather--cannot go anything further into this but there is a ____ and a ____ and some_____ that need to get done before the shower (May 17th) . Let's not forget the wardrobe of soakers she has requested.
Something for Carolyn's baby. Now, does it count as not finished if I haven't started it yet? I'm going to do Baby Surprise (my first) and likely we will make a _____ for her too.
Modern Quilt Wrap- I remember seeing this gem in Folk Style and searching high and low for the yarn because I "HAD TO HAVE IT." I got through maybe 6 blocks. Again...I won't be needing a mohair monstrosity anytime soon...I'm planning on picking it up when I go on vacation in August.
Entrelac Extravaganza-One of my LOVELY beagles ate my beloved Noro entrelac scarf...but not to worry...I love entrelac and was more than willing to make another. I decided to go with a wider version---not quite a scarf but also not quite a stole. I pick it up every few weeks and do a few entrelac block rows because ENTRELAC IS LIKE CRACK. It will be gorgeous when I get it done...in September (another vacation project).
The hex afghan. Trish and I came clean this weekend that we HATE IT and HATE the Yarn-- so ABANDON SHIP...
Kimono Shawl...loving it except that it is BORING! I've done three repeats and have reached a point where I need to FOCUS on it and just knit it for a few weeks and get it done...But then all this baby crap gets in the way...but I really want to be knitting lace

There it is. I really want to be knitting lace. Mostly because it is interesting and challenging and lovely. I've got a huge collection of amazing lace yarn and I was an amazing collection of equally amazing shawls, stoles and scarves all in lace. So, how do I justify answering to the needs of my inspiration gods and the gods of multiple baby gifts- and, actually finish something that makes me feel like I can--be satisfied?

Maggie is home!

2008-03-18T11:45:00.001-04:00

Hi all...sorry I didn't write last night...but it was a long day and quite frankly Mags and I were exhausted. Maggie is home and doing well...

She snuggled right in for a nap with her favorite pillow...Finnegan.

She had no further seizure activity while in the hospital and her tests were totally normal. Neurology and behavior both commented that the prozac she is on for her anxiety can lower her threshold for seizure (not cause it-as likely she was predisposed). However, after talking with the behavior resident Megan (who is awesome!) we decided that Maggie's quality of life is SO improved on the prozac that we are going to continue it and watch for increased/repeat seizure activity. She had lots of fluids and was totally fried when we got home. She got right in bed and snuggled in for a good nap. She and Finney had one round of good play around 9pm before she decided it was time for more beauty rest. She snuggled up on the couch with Finn...it was SO cute. So things are returning to normal-ish. The big behavior mod for me is to make sure she has no access to stairs when I'm not home as a seizure on stairs could cause major injury. So they are safely tucked in to the first floor. Thanks for your good thoughts!

Love

Maggie and her human

Think good thoughts...

2008-03-16T22:08:00.002-04:00

for Lady Maggie...

Maggie had a pretty bad, ridicously long seizure Sunday evening. She is safely enconsed in the care of my co-workers at VHUP who are monitoring her closely, re-hydrating her and making sure she see the neurology vets in the am. The boys are taking good care of me, though wonder where their sister is...I keep reassuring them that she will be home tomorrow. Hopefully this is nothing more than "idiopathic epilepsy" and perhaps she won't ever go through this again...regardless she is in the right place and with a mom who will do whatever she can.

Thanks to El and Jake for coming with me and keeping me company!
I'll update everyone tomorrow

Ides of March

2008-03-15T15:48:00.008-04:00

Holy craptastic...how did it get to be March 15th?
So much has been going on! Work is getting crazy busy...we got the general go ahead to move forward with our caregivers group...next up we meet with more vets and some patients and start writing our lit review for publication. We are so hard core ground breaking.

But even cooler, spring is coming! I took these photos yesterday

Daffodils, Tulips and Hyacinth sprouting in the front yard

Cherry Tree blooming next door

A lone crocus in my front yard

Also, Happy Birthday to my sister---you fierce trani hot mess!!!!
And, Finney is 7 months old. Check out the transformation of the cutest beagle basset I know...well he's the only beagle basset I know...
Finn at 3 months:

Finn at 7 months:

Isn't he growing up! He is actually growing into those paws! Thursday he went to work with me and had a great time...he also behaved REALLY well.

Here is Finney at work...

He is clearly living the life of Riley...

Insomniac Theater Returns

2008-03-05T10:44:00.005-05:00

Last night, I was up for a long, long time.
It was pouring rain most of the night, and fairly mild for early March. Of course I had my windows open. The wind was howling and the rain was pounding down. My mom used to tell me how much she loved to just lay in bed and listen to the rain. I tried hard to let it coax me into sleep...but I didn't...my mind was racing.

Of course, there was lots of election coverage. I am so proud of Hillary. Yes, I am a Hillary supporter. Even more so, I'm excited that my vote is actually going to count for something in the PA primary.

I had a rough night at group last night...felt like I over shared (in SW talk "self disclosed" too much). Though if the general rule of thumb is, "was it for you or the client?" it was certainly for the client and I think will be helpful in her overwhelming need to get medication and counseling for her overwhelming depression. But still, I felt vulnerable in front of these clients and unsure of myself as a clinician. At least my self reflection skills are at an all time high.

And the dogs...oh the dogs. Finney outright REFUSED to go outside this morning. Yes it was wet and still raining a bit...but he looked at me as if to say, "if you pee out there mom, I will."
He makes a good point. Anyway, I snapped this photo on the Blackberry last night of Mags spooning Finney (sorry for the poor quality, it was taken with a BB)

I watched old episodes of "The Office" last night...god I miss TV and especially that show...can't wait until it comes back on as there was literally NOTHING on last night...not even a new episode of "Parking Wars." And where was "House?" I needed some Hugh last night. Oy!

Work is rocking! Kathy and I are making a mega proposal next week to the behavior section about starting a support group for people with challenging animals (either with behavior or chronic medical issues). We are both so excited about the premise of the group, what it could offer to our clients and the research we could produce as part of it. The energy around us at Bucks County Coffee yesterday was amazing...people must have been watching us because clearly we were basking in the glow of our budding collaboration. Kathy..."THIS IS GROUNDBREAKING!!!" HAHA!!

Kathy mentioned me in her blog...which I adore. Check it out at http://www.2cutedogs.com/

Oh, and here is a great photo of Finn...showing off the family jewels...again

I'm glad he likes my bed so much. Okay time to work...

March already!

2008-03-03T20:52:00.004-05:00

Typically, February has been a tough month for me...so I welcome March with open arms. Indeed I was treated to a nice, warm day today and a walk with the bagels this evening. Finally they are all sleeping soundly and I have some blog time.

Nothing too exciting...except that I feel like I am becoming an event planner in my spare time...between my parent's 40th anniversary party, Heather's shower, my last harrah volunteering for the Oncology Memorial Service at HUP and my "I can't believe I have lived in this house for 10 years party..." this is seemingly all I do! It is fun...picking out invites and menus and favors and the like...

The kids are keeping me busy...Finn continues to grow exponentially...

He is such an amazing dog. I think back to before I adopted him and how nervous I was about making the leap. Now I can't imagine not having him as part of the family. He has finally got the hang of walking on his leash and I think laster this week, depending on the weather, I'll walk him up to the office for his first day at work!

Speaking of dogs in office, here is Gussy hanging out under my desk in my office...

He is settling in while I work...when he wants to play he heads out to the old library and plays with a "stuffie" given to him by my office mate Susan. He also enjoys laying in the sun by the big windows. It will be interesting to see how Finney does.

Maggie seems to be progressing with her behavior modification and medication mgmt of her social anxiety. She is certainly recovering faster when she gets spooked and seems to feel more confident in many situations. She didn't like walking this evening (in the dark)...but now she is spread out across 3/4 of the couch.

I'm pretty focused now on knitting for Heather...lots of stuff on the plate for her...but since she reads the blog, I can't go into it...all I can say is she and little baby boy Klu-Simpson are going to love all of it.

Okay, Intervention is on...and this chick tonight is a big M-E-S-S!

Good week to all!

Needing a sponsor

2008-02-27T12:27:00.001-05:00

I WANT TO BUY YARN!!!

NO I don't need it!

YES I have a ROOM full of yarn at home

Yes I've been SOOOOO good about knitting from stash for almost TWO MONTHS!

BUT I NEED A FIX!!! HELP!
HELP!
HELP!!!!!

RETURN OF THE OSCAR FASHION REVIEW

2008-02-25T11:37:00.007-05:00

Since I got hosed with the cancellation of the Golden Globes, I've gone hard core with the Oscar blog...

Worst dressed female: Jennifer Hudson...we will never hear from her again

What is this Cameron, prom??? FIX YOUR HAIR!

Love George, hate the girlfriend...what color is her hair? Clearly not natural...

This is a trainwreck! She looks like she has antennas on her shoulders and he is wearing brown shoes!!! I don't care if you gave an Oscar winning performance!

LOVED YOU in Clayton! I thought you deserved the victory, but this dress is a disaster! It looks like a sack....

Worst use of baby glow: Cate Blanchett

Female Hall of Fame Winner: Heidi Klum

I'm a giant scientologist tangerine!

She cleans up nice: Amy Ryan

Worst Facial Hair: James McAvoy

Distinguised Lady: Ruby Dee! You are SMOKING!

Male Hall of Fame: George Clooney; now get rid of the arm candy!

I think Nicole might actually break in half! What is happening here?

This is Ellen's choice for best dressed-but I don't know...something is not right

Miley Cyrus-so cute, age approrpriate, smart and disciplined!

So, I hear you are dating my dream boy Javier...bitch!

I'm sorry but the fish scales just do NOTHING for me...but for some reason, she pulls this off

Cutest couple 1; Diane Lane and Josh Brolin

Cutest couple 2; Steve Carrell and his wife Nancy

Distinguised Gent Award: Tom Wilkinson. Brilliant in Clayton! Looks like the brit he is!

And now for my bests:

Amy Adams; love the green, love the faux bag, LOVE IT!!!

Keri Russell; the fit is impeccable...she looks like a goddess, albeit a very skinny goddess

Best Bling (worst hair): Laura Linney. I want that necklace

Best Bling with ok hair: Jennifer Garner. Looks effortless

Best use of preggers glow: Jessica Alba. She is always well put together and I LOVE this color...the only thing I would have done differently, lost the feathers.

The birthday beagle

2008-02-15T09:24:00.006-05:00

Sure, yesterday was Valentine's Day for everyone else, but in our house, it is Gussy's birthday.

Happy 6th Birthday Gussy!

Gus came to live with me four years ago! I can't believe it! Where has the time gone? Gus continues to amaze me with his love, compassion, sweetness and silliness. Perhaps this is best illustrated in his "work" visiting kids and their families at Ronald McDonald House. He truly shines when he is there, and I could not be more proud.

Gus has a special affinity for stuffed dog toys that talk...they can't squeak...he is over that. They have to make animal-esque noises or actual human sounds. So, El and I went to PetSmart last night and picked out a very special talking stuffed elephant for Gus. It made this horrible shrieking squealing extravaganza of a noise. Gus loved it so much. I say loved, because he completely gutted it, along with the pink stuffed pig I bought for little Finney. Here is the carnage:

As you can see, there is very little left of said pig and said elephant. All in all, I think Gus had a great birthday. I guess it has just been a great week for beagle-dom in general...

Anther shot of the champ...

2008-02-13T10:19:00.002-05:00

Best is show...and things to think about BEFORE you get a beagle

2008-02-13T09:51:00.002-05:00

Yeah for Uno! He bayed and seemed to know he was the best dog in dog world. He was gorgeous and frisky and amazing! A snoopy finally gets it's day.

Here is the judging video, just in case you missed it...or...like me, you enjoy watching the poodle get TROUNCED! Uno kicks poodle ass!

But before you run out an adopt a beagle, please remember the following:

1) Beagles follow their noses. They are not dogs you can take to the beach to run off leash...they get a scent and they are gone. There is nothing worse than a missing beagle.

2) Beagles love to eat trash. You will need to purchase a heavy duty (I have a Simple Human) trash can and potentially need to install locks on this trash can. Trash can make for very sick dogs. This may also apply to your 'frig (Molly learned to open my fridge!).

3) Beagles are stubborn. Just this morning, Finn outright REFUSED to go outside. Of course the back yard looked like an ice skating ring and it was pouring rain, but seriously, cleaning up pee and poop kind of sucks.

4) Beagles can be loud...just ask my neighbor Eliza Jane how she feels about my babies...to which I say, you live in a row house, if you want silence, move to the suburbs!

5) Beagles are smart. They may look all cute and moronic...but they know what they are doing ALL THE TIME. They are always on to you and on to how to be naughty or make a mess or do something they shouldn't be (even if it is so cute!)

6) Beagles can have health problems; in particular back problems requiring surgery...like our Harry who had a laminectomy for a slipped disc several years ago. Yes the operation was successful and Harry has led a full active life, but it is also expensive ($3000-$5000) and has a bit of a slow recovery time

BUT...

1) Beagles are affectionate, loving, snuggly, friendly, protective, humerous and good with kids
1a) Beagles want to be your companion, best friend and confidante
2) Dogs Rule; Beagles rule dog world.
3) Beagles need to be rescued! Before you look at a breeder check out rescue groups. Beagles are used frequently for research and vet training (including here at VHUP/Penn Vet where I work) and of course, for hunting. Dogs who don't "cut it" at hunting are often left to fend for themselves and end up strays. Gus and Molly were both failed hunting dogs. Finn's mom was shot in a hunting accident. Maggie was a lab bred beagle

That is my beagle public service notice...congrats to Uno!

UNO!

2008-02-12T10:18:00.000-05:00

UNO THE BEAGLE FOR BEST IN SHOW!

GO UNO! BEAT THE STANDARD POODLE!!!

There is a dog in my office!

2008-02-11T10:59:00.000-05:00

So the benefits of moving over here to 38th and Spruce are becoming more evident.
1) It is freezing this morning...11 degrees with a -something wind chill. I bundled appropriately...but the bus, literally, drops me off at the door.
2) Wawa is across the street....coffee, all day, everyday.
3) Dogs visit my in my office! Today, Daisy has been hanging out with me. She is a young pit mix...full of love, affection and tenderness. She belongs to a vet student, but hangs out here while she is in class. She was rescued, running around the streets of West Philly, with an electrical cord around her neck. She also had a barb from barb wire embedded in her back and had clearly had puppies recently. She's been adopted by said vet student, given her shots, spayed etc... but she has serious separation anxiety, so her doggie day care is here with us in 1 Rosenthal. She has found my space heater and has been laying in front of it for a while. She is a darling and hopefully this is the beginning of a new and wonderful life with her. (She just had her head on my knee! I'm melting!)

Finn had a great time yesterday at his first knit-o-rama! He loved meeting and playing with all of his aunties (Trish, Lisa, Nicole, Heather, Elizabeth, Allison and Ellen) but most of all, wanted to get to know Ellen's Maltese, Jake. Jake is not so interested in other dogs...and poor Finney...he just wants to play with everything all the time.

We also had a lovely time watching part 1 of Masterpiece Theater's treatment of "Pride and Prejudice" with my boyfriend, Colin Firth. Yum yum yum.

So, on with Monday and time to do some work...or at least snuggle Daisy some more...

Crappy blogger

2008-02-09T20:44:00.001-05:00

I just realized I hadn't blogged in a couple of weeks! Oye vegh. I wish I could say that exciting things have been happening, but it has been pretty much, same shit different day.

Perhaps the biggest news is that I have (finally) moved my office to the vet school! Yeah! I feel legitimate! The move itself was a giant CF...it made me feel awkward and bitched up. Essentially I was homeless, without a computer, phone...etc for a day. Not really a big deal, but I was a mess. Plus I was teaching all week (the "Human Animal Bond" lab for Intro to Clinical Veterinary Medicine) and this being the first time I've taught this class, I was naturally worried and wanting to do a good job and set myself apart from my predescessors. Anyway, I ended up walking all over campus after I dropped my penn card, which ended up in Trish's office at HUP (of course) and the classes went fine (still have two to go).

My new office is a bit of a cave...but after a few hours of unpackins and decorating and "christina-ing" the space, it was starting to come together. I waited ALL DAY Friday for IS to come and hook me up to the web...so that was a bit of a pain as one of the projects I have to work on in the next few weeks is re-doing the social work web pages for the vet school's new website.

So another weekend is here and I'm knitting...I wish I could say I was knitting feverishly, but I'm not. I've been feeling a little uninspired lately. I've picked up the "Kimono Shawl" in Anne that I started in '06. It is just amazing and I am enjoying the knitting...but I'm getting that lace callous again on my right hand index finger from the addi lace needles. I got one last year when I was working on the Highland Triangle. I'm also trying to figure out what to make for Heather/baby and wondering if I will ever knit another sweater.

The reason I haven't knit a sweater in maybe two years now...the silk garden debacle. I worked my tail off to finish this 3/4 sleeve pullover in silk garden...even paid to have the finishing work done so it would look professional and gorgeous. I got it home and it was an absolute disaster...two big everywhere...no drape...nasty...fugly. Needless to say, Grace frogged the ENTIRE thing and I hadn't really thought about it since...until mom and I were working on the hobby space and I found all the yarn. I was really depressed...I really do want to knit a sweater again, I'm just so terrified of the possible end products.

I found the bell sleeve pullover in the UFO's a couple of weekends ago and decided that if I was going to do anything sweater wise, it was going to be that...so every few days...I think about it, visit it...wonder when I'll feel "safe" enough to venture into sweater land again. Until then, I'll keep working on kimono, the hex afghan and my entrelac extravaganza, and learn to be happy with it.

Finn update: He is huge...almost Gussy's size now...I'd say around 35 lbs!!!
Maggie's prozac has kicked in...the other night she caught a possum in the back yard! Thankfully she was NOT successful in breaking it's neck and after a few seconds of playing possum it got up, hissed at us and walked away.
And Gus, well, Gus is the king of beagles! His birthday is Thursday (Valentine's day!) and we've got a big party planned...well at least some sort of special dinner for the G man!

UFO's

2008-01-27T21:22:00.000-05:00

Last night, Ellen's dad "dosed" me with an unreal cup of coffee around 7pm.
Usually drinking 1 cup of coffee this late in the evening doesn't have much if any effect on me.
This time, I was up until 2:30am.

With boundless energy, I went stash diving (again) organizing all the KPPPM (Koigu) into 3 different bins, 1 for colorways of which I have multiple skeins, 1 for single skeins and one for leftovers and mill-ends.

Then, came the UFO's.

When mom and I were organizing last week, I made a special bin for these poor souls---figuring I would get through them eventually and decide just what to do. Who would have known it would be just one week later that eventually was upon me. Lovingly I went through, rebagged and labeled all of the projects. In conjunction with the previous list, I am in trouble. So, here it is:

Dale of Norway Rectanle Shawl in Koigu- about 5% done
Koigu Technicolor Dream Scarf (more about this later)
Maude (also in Koigu and as most of you know, the bane of my existence)-maybe 70% complete!
Koigu (do I sense a theme) baby sweater I started for Timmy Wynne (oh, he is three now)-the back is done, it's a pattern I worked hard to get from those cranky ladies at String in NYC many years ago...
Cherry Tree Hill Sweater; Trish and I worked hard to get this yarn--the pattern was in Interweave maybe 3 years ago...must find again...anyway, the yarn was nearly impossible to find after they published the magazine. Trish wore hers last week and I remembered how lovely it was...could bring me back to the dark side (knitting sweaters)
Several Pairs of Socks now living together in a bag marked "Second Sock Syndrome Victims."
Matinee Coat from Debbie Bliss; Robin made this for her niece years ago and I loved it. I figured someday someone would have a girl...the back is done and I've got babies coming...
Speaking of unfinished baby gifts...I have a completly knitted Mission Falls Cotton Baby Sweater that ONLY NEEDS FINISHING...some child is going to be wearing that next fall!
Fall Colors Striped Scarf in Frog Tree Alpaca; its very preppy...
Spiral Rib Hat in Noro Silver Thaw; one of my favorite all time patterns, I clearly started this with good intentions...
Kimono Shawl in Anne...I started this in Cape Cod 15 mths ago and am already 2 repeats into it...so should I abandon the Blue Moon one (maybe 6 garter rows into it) and save that delicious yarn for something else...I think so!
At least 3 other scarves

By the time I completed this, I had only 2 hours left to listen too of "Atonement" which I started before Christmas and was completely obsessed with finishing...so it was time to knit. I picked up the Koigu Technicolor dream scarf. Basically I'm knitting a long, 15 inch wide strip in about 70 different colors...well I'll knit the 15 inch wide strip for a while, then pick up stitches and knit horizontal rows for a while, then maybe add on another vertical strip...who knows...the mill ends are great for this project and I truly feel it will be a piece of art when done.

I also made a little progress on the "Hex Afghan" this weekend and my little sockies, which I tried on last night and I LOVE THEM!!!

Finally at 1am, I retreated to the bedroom. I decided to clean all of my silver jewelry at that time and watched the revamped Trading Spaces (welcome back Paige Davis!)

This evening I inventoried all the yarn that I'm planning to list on ebay. The list is 13 pages long...I'll post when I'm get it all up...but there is some nice stuff...

Okay it's 9:35 pm and I still haven't had dinner. "Breaking Bad" is on at 10, so I think it's time to watch/eat/knit.

Oh and I finished "Atonement" and I loved it...now must see movie.

And now, for my next trick...

2008-01-25T11:48:00.000-05:00

So now that I have gone through all the yarn and have a better sense of just what I have, I've made a list of this year's to do list of projects and here is the kicker...I don't need to buy ANY yarn.

1) Hex Afghan from Knitting Nature: Yarn Nashua Creative Focus Worsted
2) Manos Four Seasons Afghan (Fall): Manos
3) Kilkenny Cable Shawl from Folk Shawls: Black Water Abbey
4) Baby Gifts for Heather
5) Baby Gift for Carolyn
NO MORE BABIES PLEASE!!!
6) Lotus Blossom Shawl (Fiddlesticks): Helen's Laces "Envy" colorway
7) Kimono Shawl from Folk Shawls: Blue Moon Fiber Arts Laci "Atomic 66" colorway
8) Noro Entrelac Stole: Kureyon
9) Nap Shawl from Two Old Bags: Brooks Farm Duet
10) SOCKS SOCKS SOCKS

I have 12 skeins ALONE of Socks that Rock, not to mention many other skeins of Shepherd Sock, Opal and others...so I will always be carrying a sock with me as the portable project. Right now I'm working on these cute little ankle socks (I tend to like shorter socks) in some leftover Lisa Souza I had (colorway little devil) from a sorry and abandoned attempt at Jaywalkers. My sister has also requested KNEE SOCKS...any pattern suggestions??? I'm thinking of using two shades of Socks that Rock...

I just finished the Sweetie Pie Hat from the Purl Bee in Manos Silk Blend. It is perfect and NOT SCRATCHY in the least. Photos to follow...

So as the writer's strike wages on, I've found several new opportunities for good tv viewing which Trish has asked me to comment on. So here are my STRIKE BUSTERS

AMC "Breaking Bad." Chem teacher diagnosed with terminal lung cancer becomes crystal meth cooker to leave something behind for his family. Awesome! (Sundays at 10pm)

Fox "American Idol." Seriously it just gets worse and worse and I love it. (Tues and Weds)

A&E "Parking Wars." Real stories of the Philadelphia Parking Authority and the retarded citizens of my town that don't know how to read signs, double park and "borrow tags" from others. (Tuesdays 10pm)

A&E "Intervention." Reminds me that my life is not bad...at all. (Mondays 8 and 9pm)

Bravo "Project Runway." Love it...love Heidi...I'm routing for...hmmm I don't know. (Wed, 10pm)

FX "Nip/Tuck." This is my first year having FX so it is the first year I've watched this show...after hearing about it at knitting circle for the last five years (thanks Robin!). It is as out there as "Six Feet Under," which I also adored but it also perplexed me and kept me thinking, just how far will they/can they go. Nip/Tuck does the same thing. Also I am totally in love with Julian McMahon. (Tues, 10pm)

NBC "Law and Order." The original is back and I refer to it as "the Jeremy Sisto half hour." I also loved him since "Six Feet Under." Linus Roche is growing on me too...and Jesse Martin...if only he could sing on the show like he did in "Rent..." but then I guess it would be more like "Cop Rock..."(Wed, 10pm)

and coming soon

"Lost" YEAH YEAH YEAH!!!!

"Survivor" Super Fans vs Super Survivors

and

a new cycle of...

"America's Next Top Model."

So all is not lost in tv land...for now...but soon the Phillies will be back and all I will do is watch baseball again.

Photos: Before and After

2008-01-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

Before: CLUTTER EVERYWHERE!

and after:

Yeah! The hobby space is done!

I really don't think the photos do it justice...and the couches were cleaned AFTER I took these photos...they look and smell amazing.

The yarn is stored, by type (and labeled) in the multi colored fabric bins. Moth Beware hangs from sachets on the shelves. I have three bins of KPPPM (1 solid, 2 multi's), 1 bin of Kersti, 3 bins of noro, 2 1/2 bins of sock yarn, 2 bins of lace weight and many others...

And here is the piece d'resistance: Finn in the big blue Ikea bag

Update on: The Project

2008-01-21T08:09:00.000-05:00

Mom and I have been working our butts off for the last 4 days cleaning, purging, trashing, donating, organizing and constructing the purple room (now know as giant purple closet/storage room) and the lounge (now known as the Hobby Space). I can report that the project is done. There is a bit of organizing of scrapbooking stuff left to do, and the Stanley Steamer guys are on their way here to clean the giant couches. The yarn storage is a truly amazing sight to behold. I had NO idea just home much gorgeous yarn I own. Also, I need NO MORE SOCKS THAT ROCK.

Photos to follow; Ebay sale to follow; logging stash into Ravelry to follow---but will be a ridiculous task.

Also, I FINALLY WON A POOL!!!! Congrats to TK and Rachel (and me) for winning the Amazing Race. I was screaming and yelling last night when they crossed the finish line. I've been coordinating Survivor and Amazing Race pools amongst friends FOR YEARS and I've never won...I am so excited! I am going out for pancakes to celebrate.

Oh, and my service project this MLK Day; I talked with Kathy Duffy, the social worker who coordinates the knitting program at Interim House (their blog is http://www.mcduf.blogspot.com/), and I've managed to put together four large bags of yarn, needles and some knitting supplies for the ladies at Interim House. Kathy has also invited me to come out and join their knitting circle and talk to the ladies about knitting through Project Snuggles for animals at VHUP and other vet hospitals and shelters! How cool!!!

Okay off to wait for the steamer guys to come and get some snuggles on...

Crap Trifecta

2008-01-10T15:15:00.000-05:00

1. Lakeside Chinese Deli has CLOSED...apparently they've "retired" though my sister wondered about the "flagrant health code violations."

2. Kevin got kicked off "Project Runway." Total BS...Christian is a total a-hole. Now they have gotten rid of the only straight guy on the show. I'm pissed and considering a boycott...

3. No FRICKIN GOLDEN GLOBE FASHIONS...thought I totally support the writers...I'm sad I won't be able to write a fashion review blog.

A Beagle Prozac Nation

2008-01-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

Not only was it 64 degrees yesterday, but 12 years ago yesterday was the blizzard of 1996 when Philly got some 30+ inches of snow in one day. I remember it fondly...holed up in my apartment on the fourth floor of the Fairfax, writing my resume and eating anything I could find...I hadn't prepared very well and seriously didn't think the ENTIRE TOWN would shut down for 3 days afterward. I remember the news was on ALL DAY, that my car (a Honda Civic) was buried in a snow drift and the total silence of the city.

Within a week, the weather had warmed and the snow was gone...

So, Maggie went on Prozac yesterday. I'd been thinking about it for a while. Maggie has extreme anxiety around men, some strangers, noises and the outdoors. It had become so bad, I could barely walk her because she was so terrified. As we walked into Justin's yesterday for her annual appointment, she slipped out of her collar and took off down Pine Street. I caught up to her about half a block later, but it was the straw the broke the camel's back. I want Maggie to be a happy dog, and she can't be if she is terrified anytime we leave the house or one of my male friends comes over. So we started her on a small dose and Justin cautioned me that it will take upwards of a month to notice a difference. Until then, we continue to do behavior work with her and love her like mad.

Heather asked for photos so here you go:

Finn (almost 5 months old)

Gus and Finn spooning

Maggie and Finn looking out onto 46th Street

Finn licking Maggie's ears...

Hope you like them Heather!

A 60 degree January day

2008-01-07T09:07:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's right, it is supposed to be 60 degrees today. I can't complain...it was SO COLD last week, so a few days of warmth is welcome...if only it could have been Saturday when I didn't have any heat. Long story short, I have heat again thanks to the repair of a clogged filter by my new boyfriend, Jack. Jack was toothless and a hunter and didn't waste any time professing his love for me since I have a big tv for "sports." Some of you know, this is the THIRD service type professional to hit on me (cab driver, cable guy, heater man) and what I think is SO strange about this, is that they are all in my house or dropping me off at my house. Does this make me vulnerable? Thank god for killer attack beagles. But maybe it also says volumes about my comfort level in this place?

Thanks to Allison for hosting Knitorama this weekend! It was great to get together and get advice on the Logan River Crap Wrap which I have frogged. There are many more attractive things that I can knit. The yarn just wasn't right, despite the fact that I was using the yarn the pattern called for. The pattern didn't read well and looked strange. So I'm moving on...
Special thanks to Carol for agreeing to dye more some more "Stop Sign" Lace Weight after it became the latest victim of beagle yarn porn.

Plans are moving ahead for operation organization (Jan 16th-20th)...all hands are welcome to join mom and I for cleaning, throwing things out and setting up/organizing the new "hobby room." Mom and I have a basic overall plan, and dad has agreed to come and be on "beagle detail," keeping the children of the corn out of our hair while we work.

I'm hoping this week at work will begin to pick up as last week was clearly just an extension of break. But I've decided I'm starting the research project(S) in ernest today and scheduling meetings with my research boss to set some deadlines, which I need.

Oh did I mention I got called for Federal Jury Duty in February...that sucks.
Oh did I also mention I'm GOING TO SPRING TRAINING!

I am so super psyched for baseball...I can't wait.
Okay off to work...Peace

Retrospective 2007

2007-12-31T09:30:00.000-05:00

Hello all! No I didn't disappear, but I have been on break, enjoying 10 days off in Cape Cod. It was a joyous time, with lots of family, food and fun. The beagles had an amazing time and truly are a six pack again. I did a fair amount of knitting, finished a scarf and a hat and worked on another hat, but ripped is out, started two more new scarves and contemplated the kimono shawl while helping mom with her lace technique. Also, finally finished reading "The Boleyn Inheritance..." love that historical fiction.

Finn is getting HUGE! He is really growing up. Here is a recent photo

I think he really takes after Gus. Sometimes when I look at him, all I see is Bassett Hound. He loved Cape Cod...the big yard, running through the bushes, digging up mom's yard, seeing his real sister, Rory. She's adorable too:

They are both certainly Bach Beagles.

I got some great swag for Christmas including, a heated mattress pad (tried it out last night and it is awesome when the beagles are hogging the covers in the middle of the night!), walking/hiking poles, two cashmere sweaters, Phillies Crocs (will be great for opening day...or at least Spring Training), the Vogue Knitting sock book and a new coffee grinder. Allison made both mom and I collage photos of our trip to Ireland. What a GREAT idea!

Everyone seems to enjoy my knitted gifts, especially Grandma and her socks:

Pattern is Loskins in Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock; Colorway Devon. LOVE THEM!!!!

So I thought I would be all retrospective about 2007, but quite frankly in a year where the news was dominated by the antics of Britney/Lindsey/Paris, I just don't want to give it credit.

But there were also a lot of great things (personal things) that made this year memorable for me:

1) RAVELRY: What did we do before this? FINALLY, I am able to keep a knitting journal with ACCURATE information about the yarns I've used, who I've knit for etc. But even better, the community...amazing.

2) Phillies win the NL East- JRoll wins MVP. 'Nuf said.

3) Scrabulous on Facebook...keeps El and I working on our vocab and helps pass boring days.

4) I GOT A NEW JOB! Liberated from HUP, I realized just how masochistic the place is. I'm loving my new position as Director of Clinical Social Work and Pet Bereavement Services and for the first time in a LONG time, I'm not embarassed to tell people what I do.

5) Thanks to James the tow truck driver in Soctland who rescued our keys from the boot of the coupe. It was an amazing two weeks in Scotland and Ireland, but fishing things out of the trunk with a hook was certainly a highlight that I will never forget.

Now on to resolutions: which my friend Mike would rather call GOALS!!! Actually it is a much more accessible term...anyway, I've paired up with some pals for my resolutions this year and they are very task oriented.

1) Study, Take and PASS LCSW Exam (doing this with Carolyn)

2) Finish Scrapbooks from Scotland and Ireland (also with Car)

3) Manage finances and debt (with Heather)

4) Declutter and sell stuff on Ebay/Yard Sale (with Ellen, Heather and Mom)

Looking at the list, I realized I didn't have any knitting goals....hmmm....

5) Knit down the stash--no I will not say that I will only knit from stash, BUT I want to work on knitting FROM the stash. Should be easier after mom and I finish the hobby room and I actually know what I have (thanks for the inspiration Wendy).

So, Happy New Year to all...cheers to another year of Knitty Delicious, beagle antics and the like.

Newsflash: I am a sap

2007-12-18T11:09:00.001-05:00

I know I haven't been blogging much this month...I'm just overwhelmed with it being December, the end of another year, and approaching the end of my "probation" period at VHUP. I can't believe I have been working here for almost 4 months! Even more exciting, my first UNIVERSITY Christmas break, commencing Friday thru 1/1! GIDDYUP! I'm headed to the Cape for major beagle six pack reunion. We are all very interested to see what happens when we reunite the "twins" (Maggie and Luther) and the "sibs" (Finn and Rory) after they have pledged their love to others (Maggie/Finn; Luther/Rory)...

Also thrown into the mix, my sister's dogs, Riley, a doberman/coonhound mix also known as "big boy." Sure, he could eat Gus, but Gus howls ferociously at Riley and scares the crap out of him. Gus is the alpha. Ali and Mike also have Abby, a terrier mix we call "fluffy." She's a cutie pie, but she LOVED Murphy and we don't know how she will do without him.

The holiday is bittersweet; we are THRILLED to have welcomed Finn and Rory into the family, but I think both my parents and myself thought Molly and Murphy would be here this year for another Christmas. Mom got cute ornaments with both of their names on them and I'm taking Molly's up to their house to put on the tree.

Work is WINDING down...in fact it is downright slower than molasses in January. I can't wait for Friday.

So what have I been up to?
Well Sunday was annual cookie making extravaganza with Elizabeth, Heather and Carolyn.

I can't tell you how many dozens of cookies we made; but man they are good

We made a few different varieties including:

Snowballs (Elizabeth's recipe), Chocolate Krinkles (a Bach family fave), Peanut Blossoms, Corn-Flake Wreaths (Heather's speciality) and our new fave, White Chocolate/Macadamia/Cranberry cookies (a Tyler Florence recipe courtesy of Carolyn). YUM YUM YUM

Last night, I met up with Jen and the kids for our annual romp through Plymouth Meeting Mall---I mean we went to see Santa and exchanged gifts. I was SOOOOOO excited to give the kids their scarves; Alex proclaimed, "Oh yes, a scarf! I always wanted a scarf from Auntie Bach!"

I love these kids! The woman taking photos of the kids at the Santa booth asked if Jen and I were sisters, to which we proclaimed, "sisters from another mother" and had a big hug. Thanks for being such great family to me Wynne's!

Oh, Finn. He is amazing. He has settled in so nicely, it is like he belongs here.

He plays with Maggie ALL THE TIME, which is good for both of them. She is still an attention whore, and is acting out accordingly. Sometimes, Gus and I just sit on the couch and watch them roll around the living room. I just love this picture of the three of them asleep on the couch

Gus, Maggie and Finn; snoring away....

Today is my first VHUP holiday lunch and Thursday my last HUP Christmas party (likely).

Between now and then, support group, knitting circle holiday party, exchanging gifts with Trish, laundry, packing, wrapping, eating cookies...So likely I'll post again when I arrive on Cape and have lots more picture of a Bach Beagle family Christmas.

And why am I a sap? Ellen MADE me watch, "The Notebook" the other night and warned me, get a box of tissues. I said, "I don't cry at movies." I SOBBED for the last 20 minutes and am now officially in LOVE with Ryan Gosling. I guess I CAN emote...must be on the right dose of Paxil...

Happy Holidays

Knitty D, Gussy, Magpie and Finnegan

fine

2007-12-10T10:33:00.000-05:00

I'm not dead...promise.
I'm December-overwhelmed, struggling with bad fatigue again (thank you Mr. Thyroid) and trying to get into this whole holiday thing...with very little success.

I am SO close to being done with the holiday knitting.
I am SO close to having a housetrained beagle puppy.
I am SO ready to start my Christmas break (9 more work days!)

I will post more Finn photos and the finished dragon and catepillar scarfs from Morehouse...
Now I've got to prepare to teach my first class at the vet school on Thursday!

Not by the hair on my finney finn finn

2007-12-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

Crap it has been a crazy week...yet at work it just DRAGGED on and on and on.
Now Saturday is just about over with and I just cannot bare to knit tonight. I'm really tired.

I sang in Carolyn's sister wedding today---traditional Catholic Mass in a non tradition setting, the Merion Tribute House. It was very long and my feet were really aching by the end of it. The singing was ok, had to wing it in a few places, but its done.

So I have two things left to finish knitting; Allison's gift and the second dragon scarf. Then the holiday knitting will be done! But for some reason, I can't work on either project. B-O-R-E-D.

Tomorrow I am going to BUCKLE DOWN and watch it Snow-Sleet-Rain and really try to make some progress with both. I keep trying to tell myself that if I finish these projects, I can start new, non-boring projects.

Oh, and the big project, Finnegan. That is going pretty well. He has a clue about going outside...we are down to about 2 accidents a day...he's sleeping well at night; and after a few hours, seems to end up in bed with us. He is a champion snuggler. Maggie seems to enjoy having a playmate and some of her bad behaviors have started to improve. Gus...well Gus is barking at Finn a lot and asserting himself as the Alpha. Note to Gus, we get it...you are in charge. Finn loves rawhide. He has no front teeth...his baby teeth have fallen out already. He went to meet Dr. Soli on Tuesday. We figured he is 14 weeks old. He weighs 21 pounds and his microchip has migrated to the side of his neck. Justin thinks he is going to be about a 45 pound dog. It is hard to imagine this because right now...he is just so small. Last night, he howled. He is learning about his voice. It is the funniest thing. I am udderly in love with him...and had forgotten how wonderful it is to have a three dog night, every night.

Okay, I'm going to knit for a little bit longer and then retire to sleep off the hangover of this Catholic Mass.

More Photos of Finn

2007-11-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

Today Finn:

started learning how to walk on a leash

slept with his paws up in the air

fell asleep in his mommy's arms

had a little piece of leftover turkey

played hardcore with his sister and brother (Maggie and Gus!)

discovered mommy's new crocs...

Finn and Rory!!!!

2007-11-25T07:08:00.000-05:00

Hello
My name is Finn---er---Finnegan Bach.
I am now officially a Bach Beagle. As you can see, I fit right it. I like to sleep on the couch, totally sprawled out like my brother and sister.

This is my REAL sister, Rory. She is going to live with Grandpa and Grandma in a place called Cape Cod. We like to snuggle together!

Of course, I hog the bed.

Grandpa put his Princeton hat on Rory...guess he is trying to get her to root for losers from the get go!

from KnittyD:

Hi all! Well, I did it! I'm a mommy again. Finn is sweet and silly. So far he's been a really good puppy. He slept THROUGH THE NIGHT and certainly has a clue about going potty outside. It is just a matter of DELIGENCE! He gives oddddddles of puppy kisses and has the sweetes little puppy teeth...albeit very sharp puppy teeth. He and his "brother" Gus get a long very well. Finn seems to take after Gus quite a bit. Maggie isn't quite so sure what this is all about yet.

My parents adopted Rory. She is tiny...maybe half of Finn's size...but she is "balls to the walls." She is not afraid of anything. They both love to chew rawhide and play with toys. And man, CAN THEY EAT!!!

We found out that their mother had been shot. Someone took her to the vet in West Virginia and the vet delivered the puppies. We are not sure if mom survived. There were 5 pups in all and I know the other three will find their forever homes very soon.

So that's the poop (haha) from here...more photos and adventure of Finn to follow. We will see how he does when Rory leaves...

Thanksgiving Carnage

2007-11-23T08:08:00.000-05:00

Since my folks are in Florida celebrating the holiday with Grandma, I was invited to join Ellen and her folks for Ellen's Birthday/Thanksgiving Dinner at The Prime Rib.

The restaurant is typically a bit out of my league, but I'm telling you, from now on, if I want big meat, this is the place I'm going. No, I didn't miss the turkey either, since we are having it on Saturday over here at my house.

It is a lovely place, with perhaps the most interesting, leopard print carpeting you'll ever see.

I had butternut squash soup, ceasar salad, filet mignon (cooked perfectly!), mashed sweet potatoes, sauteed spinach and to top it all off, a hot fudge sundae. It was awesome.

El's dad got the Prime Rib and had his bone wrapped up for Jake. The bone was bigger than Jake's head. Sam was then nice enough to ask the waiter if they happened to have any other bones "laying around" since I had four beagles at home.

The next thing I know, our lovely waiter brings out a SLAB of Prime Rib End, a total of six juicy bones. When I got home, I weighed it...FOUR POUNDS!!!

The dogs went MAD. I managed to get a few photos...none of Mags as she took her bone outside and killed it in the back yard...but here are Gus and Harry loving their bones:

YUMMMMMMMMMMM!

I also NEED to thank my secret pal for her FABU spoiling of me over the last several months. I received my final package on Tuesday...THANK YOU BETSY!!! You were an awesome pal!!!

Here's a little peek at the goodies:

I wish the handknit dishcloth with a turkey design knitted into it would have photographed better! SO COOL. And these are now officially my favorite candy bar. I love the Christmas ornaments for the dogs...I'll just need another one for Finn!!!

Anyway, I'm off to Bed Bath and Beyond to cash in on a little black friday fun.

Tommorrow the pups come home...oh mom and dad are naming theirs "Rory."
And tomorrow is also the infamouse Saturday after Thanksgiving Dinner here...14 people, 6 dogs...should be awesome.

The therapeutic benefits of meltdowns

2007-11-21T18:51:00.000-05:00

Clearly, letting some shit go is very helpful.

The blog post...tears shed during "sex and the city" reruns at 1am were very helpful and I'm going to do it...

Today I went and bought some things for the pup, including a tag, a bowl and a puppy kong.

Happy Thanksgiving to all...

Come Saturday, I will blog lots about my newest addition, Finnegan "Finn" Bach

Thanks for your thoughts!

Going Mental

2007-11-20T23:16:00.000-05:00

Yes...me...I'm going mental.

I thought I had made the decision, finally, to get another dog.
Molly has been gone for 8 months now...and I know I can give another dog a wonderful, loving home.

I've picked him out. I've named him. I am supposed to pick him up Saturday. I've convinced my parents to adopt one of his sibs...just like we planned.

And I'm having second, third, fourth and fifth thoughts.
And above all, I have to ask myself,

Why can't I ever be happy with what I have?
Why must there always be "something else?"

I don't know what to do. I am so afraid that Gus and Mag will not react well to a new pup...that over the last eight months, they have become so accustomed to being a pair instead of a pack, that they won't be happy with triangulating the situation.

Or maybe this will be the best thing ever. The ambiguity is killing me.

I saw a client yesterday who is struggling with ambiguity too...and I've decided that it is really a challenge to the psyche because it keeps you from taking the next step...it is what makes you stuck.

So I'm stuck and I've got three days to decide what I'm going to do...yes I know there will always be an opportunity for other dogs who need homes...I just wish someone or something would give me a sign...(hint hint hint)

On another note, I'll blog tomorrow about my final package from my secret pal...

Any advice about the situation would be appreciated...

OYE!

2007-11-19T11:18:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't been writing much lately...but quite frankly SO much has been going on I can barely keep my head on straight.

So...Congrats to

Heather and Serge who eloped to Lake Placid a couple of weeks ago!
Trish and Arthur who got engaged &
Robin and Ronnen who ALSO got engaged and are moving to San Francisco this week!

But with all the good, the sad as well...
A dear family friend, Kathy, has been diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Kathy and her family lived next door to us in Willoughby. I've known them since I was 13 (whoa) and babysat all the kids (who are now in their 20's). Above all, Kathy was a big sister to me and Allison. We spent lots of time at her house after school, eating oreo's and talking about how stupid our parents were. Kathy is strong; a marathon runner. I'm channeling lots of energy into knitting her a very special chemo cap. Think good thoughts for Kath!

On top of all of this:
I'm dog sitting Harry and Luther---I've missed sleeping in bed surrounded my beagles...its very safe and cozy. Although there is LOTS of snoring.

And this was the weekend to set up my home office. Saturday night, 5 hours or so into the project, I started to panic that is was not going to get done and that I was having 14 people over for dinner in a week and the house was TRASHED. But somehow...it got done and the downstairs looks amazing and is ready to welcome the masses for the "After Thanksgiving" bash.

So between being focused on knitting Kathy's hat and finishing the holiday knitting, I'm STILL not allowed to start anything new...So far, I'm sticking to this.

Visiting the 'burgh

2007-11-11T18:42:00.000-05:00

Yeah I've been a little MIA...but I have really good reasons.

I gave my first talk/training as a Veterinary Social Worker and I was GOING BONKERS getting myself together, finishing power point slides and lamenting leaving Gus and Mags for three days.

But the best part was that the talk was in Pittsburgh so I got to spend some quality time with two of my closest pals in the world, and also fellow Woosterites, Annie and Connie.

Annie and I visited the Andy Warhol museum Friday night in Pittsburgh. It's an interesting place. We both decided there wasn't a whole lot of actual Andy Warhol stuff there. But, the place does provide great space for artists "inspired" by Warhol to be seen. Let's just say there was lots of pieces featuring penis' and boobs.

My favorite Warhol piece, the Cow/Cow Wall Paper:

What is super great about the Warhol; you can take photos of all of Andy's works. Here's a few more:

Saturday brought breakfast and awesome pancakes at Pamela's followed by shopping in Shadyside. Then we were off to visit Connie and her family, including new arrival (3 1/2 week old Amaya).

Connie also has a six year love muffin, Isabela, who met her match in her Auntie Bach. We became fast friends...I hadn't seen Isabela since she was 10 months old. Here are a few photos of our visit:

The GORGEOUS, SUPER SMART, BI-LINGUAL ISABELA

Amaya says, "Talk to the hand."

I snuggle with Amaya

Annie, Me, Connie and the girls

Angel and Amaya

So, it was an awesome trip-I'm still super tired and Maggie is acting out through destruction to show me that I shouldn't be leaving her again.

In regards to knitting-this is my pact:

I'm only knitting the stuff in my knitting bag from now until the Christmas projects are finished. In the bag: 1) The Hunter's Safety Stole 2) The Dragon Scarves (3) Allison's gift (4) My So Called Scarf and 5) Brooks Farm Ribbed Scarf

Mom and I have plans to have our own knit-a-long over the Holidays; we are going to make "Kimono" shawl. We both purchased Blue Moon Fiber Arts "Laci" and mom is really feeling like she wants to make the leap to lace. So, I've got a lot to get done between now and December 22nd when my Christmas break starts. On that note, must get knitting.

Spook-tacular!

2007-11-02T14:31:00.000-04:00

Yes, the Wynne's and I did our annual Halloween extravaganza; this year we went as the characters from Scooby Doo!
Starring
Samanatha as Daphne
Alex as Freddy
Timmy as "The Monster" who always chases us
Jen as Velma
Bob as Schaggy
Auntie Bach as Scooby

and Maggie, in homage to Cousin Harry, as a Vampire Beagle!

Happy Fall!

Two New Books

2007-10-24T12:14:00.000-04:00

I went to the dentist yesterday. On top of finding out that I have a broken tooth and need a crown and possibly ANOTHER root canal (the thing doesnt hurt at all!) But whenever I go see the beloved Dr. Rao, I always go to Barnes and Noble as his office is located next door.

They've moved the knitting books up to the third floor...right next to kiddie land...great.
Just want I want to be around when I'm looking at knitting books, screaming children and their frustrated parents who are unable to satisfy their children's every whim.

But, it's time to think about holiday knitting and as great as Ravelry is for inspiration, you still have to BUY the patterns.

So I picked up two new knitting books and here are my initial thoughts:

1)One Skein Wonders edited by Judith Durant
The layout of this book sucks. Once you get past this, the content is pretty darn good.
All of the photos of the projects are located at the beginning of the book. They are ridiculously small. The book is organized by yarn weight; i.e. it starts with lace weight yarn projects and ends with novelty yarn projects. But after looking through it, there are at least 10 different things I would and could make from stash RIGHT NOW. So I suggest you get out those little Post It tape flags and mark the photos and the patterns to ease your mind. I have NO idea WHY a publisher would have set up a book this way...

2) The Knitters Book of Yarn by Clara Parkes; Clara puts out the great Knitter's Review. This book is lovely---full of lots of facts and tidbits you always wanted to know about fiber---and not just natural fibers, but man-made fibers (even acrylics YIKES!)!! And there are some lovely patterns, again that I could make right now. Here's my criticism on this, and perhaps it was just because I was reading the book in bed late last night, but Clara divides the books my number of ply's. So she will give a project for a single ply yarn, like Noro Kureyon for instance; and then say something like (to subtitute, use xxx number of yards of single ply yarn). Well short of playing with ply's at the LYS, I really can't tell when I walk in how many ply's a given yarn has. It would have been helpful to have an appendix of yarn's by ply to provide some guidance. And seriously, how many LYS owners want you coming in and unplying yarn for kicks???

So thanks to Dr Rao for providing me with a visit to B and N to update my knitting library...

The countdown begins

2007-10-23T10:16:00.000-04:00

The Phils released their tentative schedule for next year and dad and I did the math;

ONLY 159 DAYS UNTIL OPENING DAY!!!!

Photos

2007-10-23T09:54:00.001-04:00

To find the Morehouse Store, look for the fork in the road, Literally.

BAAAAAA....

Frisbee Dog!

LLama's munching

Mom's Swag

My swag, being inspected by Luther

My new fancy ball winder!

Mega Stash Enhancement

2007-10-20T19:51:00.000-04:00

Mom and I have returned tired, achey and poor from Rhinebeck. We actually visited a couple other stash enhancement establishments (SEES) along the way and marveled at the gorgeous, near peak fall colors from the Cape, thru the Berkshires, to the foothills of the Catskills.

A major storm was brewing Friday; we drove through changeable skies...one minute raining, the next sunny, the next overcast. We were glued to the Weather Channel Friday evening hoping things would clear up for Saturday...we lucked out...it was a gorgeous day. Many thanks to mom for driving...this enabled me to get lots of knitting done BOTH ways.

Along the wayI finished the first Loskins sock...

Dashboard Confessional...

Making Progress...

VOILA! C'est fini!

And here are some of the fall colors I was alluding to...

It was a busy couple of days...mom and I stopped at Wonderful Things in Great Barrington, MA. Mom has heard it was a "wonderful yarn shop." It was quite interesting...I've never seen some many DIFFERENT kinds of yarn in one shop. However, the store was strangely laid out, difficult to navigate; prices were posted in alpha order in each "room" but some rooms had entire pages of yarn prices missing. Also there were tons and tons of patterns, but with no kind of system other than by manufacturer. I asked for a simple glove pattern and got very little direction...the woman working said to me, "people aren't really making gloves anymore..." I purchased a couple of skeins of a Colinette Cadenza Yarn that is about the weight of Kersti...the shop was nice enough to throw in a free pattern for a baby Kimono. This yarn was $11 a ball...cheap for Colinette. I purchased one of my fav colorways, "Fire." I also bought some great rosewood needles. But honestly, I couldn't wait to get out of there...I won't return.

Next stop, The Sheep Shop aka Morehouse Merino's shop. I told mom, this shop is literally at the "fork in the road."

Sadly, blogger is having issues with photo uploads at this time; so I'll finish with the narrative and post some more photos from the weekend later.

Mom and I loved the Morehouse Store. Unlike last year when Wendy and I went AFTER spending the day at Rhinebeck WHEN IT WAS MOBBED, Mom and I received amazing customer service AND I was able to score some great yarn for a vest out of the sale bin...for $4 a hank (I needed 5 for the vest! What a steal!) It was nice not to have to fight our way around people to get a look at things. What I also love about Morehouse is their kits; they really give great inspiration and make it easy to shop and plan for holiday knitting. I scored some really cute scarf kits for the Wynne kids; the boys are getting dragons and Sammy is getting a purple catepillar.

We met my old friends Tige and Annemarie for dinner and honkered in for the night. I wish I could say I slept better, but the combo of mom's snoring and my excitement did not make for a restful night.

We headed to the Eveready Diner at 730am for breakfast *YUM*** and were at the Fairgrounds at 825am. We parked in the 4-h lot and were able to get in early. We made a b-line for The Fold and mom and I both purchased some STR. I also got the last gift for my secret pal. We also hit Brooks Farm and mom is now a Brooks convert! I'd been telling her about this yarn forever and I was so happy she fell in love with it.

My biggest purchase was a new ball winder. It is not your typical ball winder. It is amazing. Can't wait to share the photos...Mom got a new swift too, so changing those skeins into balls was NO BIGGY last night.

We spent the rest of our time in Rhinebeck meandering around the booths. The festival seemed very crowded by 11am. Lots of strollers (yuck!) and rude people...more crowded than last year. The other thing I noticed was just how big spinning is getting...there was SO MUCH for spinning, roving, wheels, carders. Also, weaving seems to be getting bigger too! We visited with some of the animals; sheep, angora goats, alpacas, llama's, a gorgeous border collie and a few bunnies. We also really enjoyed the frisbee dog demonstration and the guy juggling fire.

The deep fried pickles were there again-but my favorite food was the apple; dipped in caramel; dipped in chocolate!!!! Holy crap it was good. We also had cider that had been pressed just a day earlier. Although it was really warm out, there was still a taste of fall in the air.

On the way home, I continued knitting. I have a scarf I've been fooling around with with I'm calling "Variations on a Theme by Grumperina" or "A Jaywalker Scarf." I'm knitting it in STR colorway, Rooster Rock. It is gorgeous and I can't wait to share photos and the pattern. It's perfect for all of us that couldn't quite get the socks over our ankles...

We are back on Cape now and spent some time recup'ing in the hot tub. Like I said, more photos to follow once blogger repairs the photo uploader...

A Busy Weekend

2007-10-15T14:38:00.000-04:00

On top of having ANOTHER sinus extravaganza, I had a busy weekend planned.

Friday, E and I went down to Baltimore for Stitches. I was restrained, but still managed to purchase some great stuff. I followed my number one rule of yarn festival purchasing: "I am only allowed to buy stuff I can't get at my LYS." I also followed rule number 2: "No livestock allowed in the car on the way home." Are you paying attention mom? These are important rules to adhere to this weekend when we go to Rhinebeck.

So here's my Stitches Swag:

Malabrigo Lace Weight; reminds me a bit of Morehouse Lace.
It was about $9.00 for 450+yards

Habu Bamboo in the color I've named "Metallic Eggplant."

Blue Moon Fiber Arts "Laci"

I forget the colorway but it is yummy isn't it?

It was $48 for 1700 +++ yards. It is going to be Kimono Shawl

Wasn't I restrained???? Well, Rhinebeck is in five days!

Saturday was Fall Knitorama. Sorry you were sick Robin and missed your farewell cake, but we ate it in your honor anyway! It was yummy!

Maggie poses with my finished "Variations on Sarah Blanch" Shawl

Allison models here nearly finished sassy Noro vest

Michelle is ready to shape her toes!

Lori is working on a great baby blanket from "Mac and Me" in Blue Sky Organic Cotton

Maggie snuggles with Aunt Money as she finishes a hat for "Afghans for Afghans."

Sunday I was treated to the Sixers pre-season basketball game with Jennifer, Alex and Timmy.

It was not pretty...

Tbone can touch his tongue to his nose

Alex has his first taste of Crab Fries

The boys had a "blue" evening; starting with blue water ice...

...popcorn up the nose

...and blue cotton candy

THE DAYS ARE JUST PACKED

SECRET PAL!!!!!

2007-10-09T19:23:00.001-04:00

When I got home tonight, I noticed a "priority mail" box hidden behind one of the planters. I was SURE it was my Scooby Doo mask for Halloween...but no, IT WAS PACKAGE #2 from MY AWESOME SECRET PAL!

The yarn is like nothing I've seen...and sadly my camera really can't do it justice. But it is called "Harmony" from Jojoland and is a very subtly variagated green/blue/yellow and I think there is some pink and purple in it too. I can't wait to see the pattern in the next box. And I LOVE the Knitpickers yarn holder! I love my containers! (In fact I'm counting the days until the Container Store opens in Cherry Hill in Novemeber!)

Also many thanks for the Halloween themed items...MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY!

And really, I am craving Reses SO BADLY tonight...I'm going to settle in for House with my shawl, a big glass of milk and my favorite candy treat! Thanks so much Secret Pal!

I have to go now, Maggie is eating scissors...again.

Needing my people...

2007-10-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

I'm feeling a little withdrawn from the yarn world these days...which is strange given my new love of Ravelry. With the new job, I can't really get to knitting circle as I'm at Ronald McDonald House most Wednesday night. So, what could possibly remedy this malady?

STITCHES!!!

Yeah, its this weekend and yeah it's only an hour and a half away.

So I've decided to go, "just to look," at stuff, since I'm going to Rhinebeck next weekend.
And what a better excuse to "be with my people," as I explained to Ellen.

Plus, I get to eat crabs, crab cakes, crab soup etc.

Oh, speaking of knitting...I'm am 7 short rows (@300 + stitches per row) from finishing the Sarah Blanch variation shawl in koigu. It is yummy...I am hopeful to finish it tonight sometime between Beauty and the Geek and House.

Maude will from now on, be better known as "the bitch." The bitch screwed herself up again last week (it certainly wasn't me!) requiring another trip to Courtney. It's next up on the finish it list and then I'm starting the Honeybee Stole from KnitSpot. Unclear what yarn I'm going to do it in, but I love the pattern.

Well...

2007-10-05T11:34:00.000-04:00

At the very least we got to:

Eat Crab Fries

Take Funny Photos of Heather and food

See the bell ring again...

Actually play in the NLDS

See the stands full of people dressed in red with rally towels

Sit in the sun in the 85 degree heat in OCTOBER

Remember Tug...

Look cute in our matching outfits and buy a really expensive NLDS program

OH MY GOD!

2007-10-02T09:34:00.001-04:00

THE PHILLIES NOT ONLY MADE THE PLAYOFFS BUT WON THE EASTERN DIVISION!

Literally I've been in shock for two days. Sunday night, I was sure I had dreamt the entire thing and kept waking up and turning on Sports Center to make sure it was true!

Not only that, BUT I HAVE TICKETS TO THURSDAY'S GAME!

Last Friday, I got an email that I had been "choosen" (good I feel like a disciple or something), in the second chance lottery to buy NLDS tickets. I snatched those mothers up. So Ellen, Heather and I are going on Thursday! CRAP!

I promised photos from Light the Night. Dad and I made quick work of the walk. It was gorgeous as it always is (the event, not the weather).

Oh, and here are some photos from last Friday's Phils Game; which was totally amazing

CRAB FRIES GALORE!!!!

Heather becomes one with her Bulls BBQ Turkey Sandwich

GO PHILLIES!!!!

Many thanks!

2007-09-28T09:14:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all who sponsored Dad and me! for tomorrow's Light the Night Walk. Dad and I raised over $1300!!!! We both more than surpassed our fundraising goals!
I'll post pics from the walk on Sunday.

Thanks to the baseball God's who have allowed the Phillies to share first place...and I'm going to the game tonight and IT MATTERS!!! Go Phils! VISUALIZE OCTOBER BASEBALL!!!

Confessions of a Veterinary Social Worker, Part 2

2007-09-27T09:11:00.000-04:00

3 weeks into the job now and I continue to be amazed. I STILL can't believe I am getting paid for this. It is still exciting and new and I'm learning so much. I guess I just didn't think that could be possible this many years into my social work career.

So here is the biggest thing I've noticed that is different. In hospital social work, most client's and their families are not particularly grateful for what you are doing with them...for instance, you don't often hear, "thanks for putting my mom in that nursing home...or...thanks for telling me I have no insurance and can't get follow up care anywhere but at a city health clinic...or...thanks for telling me this medication will cost me $3000...

But over here...people are just so grateful to have me to talk to. And I truly feel their gratitude. They send me photos of their beloved animals. They tell me funny stories. They don't know me from Adam, but they allow themselves to cry openly and honestly over the phone...in total vulnerability...to this stranger reassuring them that they will get through this...not over it...but through it.

Also, I'm amazed by these animals. Yes I know, animals are meant to enhance our lives...but they are also just really damn funny...like the dalmation with anxiety who sucks on his tail all day when alone. Like a child sucking his thumb...

The bane of my existence

2007-09-26T23:30:00.000-04:00

One word...Maude.

Maude is a great pattern for a shawl written by my dear pal and yarn matriarch, Courtney Kelly. Wendy tried really hard to get me to start Maude last year around Rhinebeck time...but I wasn't sold. I didn't know if I really liked the shawl and had so many other things on the knitting plate that I let it go.

Then, I found the perfect Koigu at Rosie's. I haven't seen any other like it since...I quickly snatched it up.

Then Molly died and I needed an "easy project." Courtney told me that when she and Max had lost a dog, she designed Maude and it was a grieving project for her. As I started knitting it, I could see what she meant...it was pretty simple once I figured out the little mistakes in the pattern and got going. It was soothing and healing for me while I was feeling pretty crappy.

But for some reason...I just kept messing Maude up and haven't been able to finish her. She makes me angry. I know I can knit her...but when I make mistakes and try to frog back SSK's I get bitched up and all hell breaks loose. It is depressing that after knitting much more difficult projects, I can't knit this one. While on vacation, I screwed her up again. She's been sitting in a knitting bag for about 3 weeks. I am in denial. Maybe if I don't think about her she would just go away. Sadly, she didn't. She remains on the list of projects I've started that just need to get done.

Finally today, I took her to Courtney for yet another intervention. I'm still not very confident about knitting her. I find myself bargaining with her..."please, let me get through this row without screwing up the placement of the yo...please let me purl/knit the double yo correctly..." I knit about 15 rows tonight with modest success. I have come to accept that Maude may require more trips for intervention and support from Courtney. I have come to accept that knitting Maude is a journey for me. And I came to the realization that I better finish the Mother F**ker before Courtney has her baby and isn't as accessible for intervention.

So I highlighted anger, depression, denial, bargaining and acceptance above. Many are familiar with these as Kubler-Ross "5 Stages." These stages were originially written by Kubler Ross after her qualitative study with dying people and were supposed to describe "the" stages of death and dying. They have since been applied to pretty much everything in the loss and bereavement field...much to the chagrin of many of us advanced grief/bereavement/end of life care practitioners. I've been working really hard to get people in both of my employment settings to think outside the Kubler Ross box when thinking about loss. But here I am, going right back to them to describe my relationship with a knitting project...cosmic Kubler Ross karma...maybe; but then again maybe I too need to listen to my own advice and think outside the box with Maude.

Secret Pal and Quilt Wrap...

2007-09-23T12:47:00.000-04:00

I have been laid up with yet another sinus infection...so when I can manage to hold my head up unsupported, I've been working on the "modern quilt wrap" and digging out from PILES and PILES of laundry. My goal with the laundry is to have NOTHING on the laundry room floor when my mother arrives on Friday. I've got about 4 loads to go...

But the quilt wrap, that is another story...I'm through 12 blocks and the colors look pretty amazing...but I'm still struggling with things "lining up" just perfectly.

Here is the first row of blocks completed:

And here is the first 12 blocks or 2 rows of blocks

Vertically, the rows aren't "perfect," but looking at it on blogger, I do think it is quite breathtaking...I'll press on... does anyone think this thing is going to be HUGE if knitted as written...I may scale back a bit...

ALSO...many thanks to my secret pal! I received your package on Friday: I was lucky to have picked that day to work from home so I was here when the postman rang the bell and I got to DIVE RIGHT IN to the goodness

My secret pal decided to send me everything I needed for a lace project over the course of the three packages. In this package, she sent my (yum) addi lace needles. She also crocheted me a lovely bookmark (note to self, time to start book club reading) and also inlcuded a great knitted dishcloth which I have already used, some yummy lavender shower gel, a new tape measure (how did you know I needed a new tape measure?), some note paper and some treats for the furbabies...

...to which Gus says, "THANKS! "

Confessions of a Veterinary Social Worker: Installment 1

2007-09-18T10:19:00.001-04:00

One week into the new job and things are going well. It is certainly a different way of life working for the University rather than the Health System. It is very laid back...to the point that some of the administrative aspects of the job...i.e. getting an email, getting a logon to my computer, getting enrolled in the University's benefits system...seem to be PAINFULLY slow to happen.

But the client work is fascinating and so different then working with (chronically) ill oncology patients. The grief is acute, raw, visceral and LOUD. I mean screaming, crying, yelling---unbelieveable PHYSICAL reactions to the loss (or impending loss) of a beloved companion animal. My first ER case was, of course, a dead beagle. And, it was in the same room where I had made the painful decision to have Molly euthanized just a few months before. But there is something so different about this for me in that experience---just that, I've been there, I've experienced this and I know how crappy it feels. I helped countless people with cancer over the years, but I am lucky to have never experienced that myself or in my family. Working with people who have lost animals just seems more natural to me.

The next day, I got a call from another woman who's dogs name was Maxie. For readers who don't know, my first dog, who died just 2 1/2 years ago suddenly, was named Maxie.

So, all my fears about my personal shit...I had to face them RIGHT AWAY. I knew I would encounter a dead beagle...I knew I'd be in the room where Mols died...I knew there would be a Max...just not the FIRST WEEK!

But it is all fascinating and new and exciting and I'm (still) thrilled.

But it is lonely over here. People don't just drop by to chat...no doctors yelling at me or trying to be cute to get their patients out of the hospital. No one to dine with regularly...I mean I meet up with the HUP girls as much as I can...but we are all busy. And I'm just not used to having people around to account my activities to...and I don't have to document ANYTHING. It is just all a little bizarre to me.

But I'm sleeping better and getting lots of knitting done in the evenings. I don't find the need to just stare aimlessly at the TV for hours everynight because I am in such a rut...the rut is done.

So, farewell to the rut...and the old me...the adventure continues

Modern Log Cabin Wrap #1

2007-09-14T17:32:00.000-04:00

While vacationing on Cape Cod, I went with mom to her knitting circle at Adventures in Knitting (Harwichport, MA). They had just gotten the "Best of Interweave" and "Folk Style" in and I thought, ya, I need some inspiration-- since I keep screwing up my damn lace shawls...

Truthfully, I thought I would love the Interweave book, as that typically is my favorite source of knitting patterns. I didn't know what to expect with "Folk Style." As soon as I opened it and saw the "Modern Quilt Wrap" by Mags Kandis I knew I had to have it.

I scooped up the last remaining copy of the book and started planning on my major acquistion of kidsilk haze. The pattern calls for 9 balls, though the actual yardage requirements for the shawl are much less according to an email I received from my knitting researcher/asset (you will understand the term asset if you've seen "The Bourne Ultimatum") Allison Kelsey.

I had also heard from a fellow knitter at mom's circle that the gold color used in the wrap had been discontinued and was pretty hard to find.

Since I was in Cape Cod, and NOBODY up there seems to carry much Rowan, I went to the internet. I purchased 6 of the 9 balls from WEBS (http://www.yarn.com/) and was able to take advantage of their discount program (which is awesome by the way). I got two balls from Rosie's (thanks Courtney for holding them for me!) and the elusive gold color? I snagged the last ball from Royal Yarns. FYI to anyone considering this project, there is some gold out there...you just have to look for it...it has, indeed, been discontinued.

So, I dove right in when I returned home. Starting this process coincided with starting my new job (yes I've started and yes I've got a lot to blog about it but not now!) so it felt a bit cathartic to begin the journeys together.

Well, let's just say my first attempt did not go well. I was not at all put off by the mitered squares...I find them easy as pie. But it just didn't work well. Here is the finished project of my swatch. The swatch is the first four squares of the project.

Swatch 1; Pre Block

Swatch 2; blocking

Swatch 1: Post Blocking

I was pretty despondent. It did not look as pretty as it did in the book! I knew there was a better way. Will consultation from Kate and Courtney at Rosie's, I made the following changes. I also augmented the pattern...I am very happy with the results:

MUCH BETTER!!!

So here's what I did:

1) Went down to size 6 needles

2) SPIT SPLICING all color changes within blocks

3) Pattern changes made the whole thing work a little better--if you are interested in these changes, please email me knittyd@blogspot.com.

I don't want to piss anyone off or violate any copy right things but I'm happy to share them with anyone who is interested...it involves slipping stitches and changing the center decreases a bit.

FINALLY!

2007-09-12T13:56:00.001-04:00

I'm on Ravelry!!!

I'm knittyd

Shocking I know...now if I could just figure it out.

Happy Birthday Maggie

2007-09-12T09:43:00.000-04:00

The baby beagle girl is three today! This is her ACTUAL birthday...not some made up day! We started the day off with a hardcore snuggle; there will be bones galore tonight. She's really grown up in the 2 1/2 years I've had her. These photos were taken over the last two weeks when we were at Grandma and Grandpa's.

I love my brother!!!!

Charitable Push

2007-09-05T08:50:00.000-04:00

I know I've been pawning a bit for Afghans for Afghans but now I want to ask you all to sponsor me as a walker in this year's Light the Night Walk for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Even though I have moved on from oncology social work, this is a cause that is near and dear to my heart. Please consider sponsoring my walk. The link below takes you directly to my fundraising page.

http://www.active.com/donate/ltnPhilad/2087_buttawoo94

Thanks! Together we can beat Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma!

Vacation...beagle style

2007-09-02T08:24:00.000-04:00

Gus, Maggie, have been enjoying their time together here on the Cape, but one activity seems to outweigh all other for beagles...

NAPPING

Gondolas and Flumes

2007-08-30T07:53:00.001-04:00

Now, where I last left off, I told you mom and I rode a gondola and hiked a flume.

No no no, not this gondola:

THIS gondola:

This is the Cannon Mountain Gondola at Franconia State Park. It lifts you up over 4000 feet, nearly to the summit of Cannon (you have to hike the rest of the way, which I did). Here are some more views from the gondola:

The walk to the top of the mountain and the observatory is about 1/2 mile up. Once you get there, and your heart is pounding and the air is a bit thinner, you then climb about 50 steps to get to the top of the observatory where you are eaten alive my midges, gnats and other flying nasty.

Needless to say, I took the "short road" back.
Next up was the flume.
Again, not this kind of flume (which, by the way, scares the bejesus out of me):

This flume is a natural wonder; a walk up a steep, narrow, granite gorge of rushing water leading up to Avalance Falls at an elevation of 1600 feet.

After all of this outdoor adventure, we were SPENT. We did pay homage to the Old Man in the Mountain site which is also part of the Franconia State Park. My mom saw the "old man" when she was here on her honeymoon 39 years ago...I'm sad I didn't get to see it.

So now we are back on Cape. My sister and Mike arrive today, along with Aunt Kakky and Uncle Ed. It will be a family extravaganza I'm sure.

On a knitting note, I actually managed to get through the center section of short rows in Maude (and did it right!) and am now decreasing...could I POSSIBLY finish it? We shall see...

Road Trip Part Deux

2007-08-29T14:05:00.000-04:00

Mom and I just returned from two days in New Hampshire. I didn't really understand why my parents had bought into a time share---but now, having reaped the benefits of such time share, I forgive them.

We stayed at a resort on Loon Mountain. Included in the redemption of my parents time share points was our two bedroom, two bath condo complete with fireplace, balcony, full kitchen and jacuzzi tub. We also had access to the resorts indoor and outdoor pools and hot tub.

On the way up we stopped at Patternworks.

I'll have to photograph the swag later and post. Mom and I found some goodies, including Mission Falls, Wool-Pak (for the Afghans!), Koigu and more. It is hard to believe that the catalog we receive from Patternworks comes out of this fairly small shop. But it is bright and airy and flows well. The people who work there are lovely too.

We then hit the local outlet malls (I know, MORE outlet shopping?) and then headed for the Kancamagus Scenic Highway from Conway New Hampshire to our condo.

The weather was GORGEOUS! The trees in some spots are already beginning to change color! Hints of fall were everywhere. I can't even imagine how amazing the colors will be in about a month.

We had a lovely, massive Italian meal and honkered in for the night. We had a big day planned for Tuesday.

We headed out early to conquer the Mt Washington Auto Road. Mt. Washington is the highest peak on the east coast; part of the Presidential range and the Appalacians. The auto road is an eight mile treck up a very narrow road with no guardrails to the 6288 foot summit.

Yes, included in the admission price ($20 per car plus $7 per each additional passenger) you get a CD tour, a certificate of completion and this nifty little bumper sticker.

The views were spectacular. Mom was chatting up a woman who works in the gift shop who said they have about 5 days a year like the one we had. Usually it is rainy, foggy, windy and gross. The highest wind ever recorded was here, at 231 MPH. The ride down was scarier as there were many blind spots. I was happy to have had all that driving experience from Scotland and Ireland under my belt.

The view of the mountain from below is just as captivating

And of course, I bought a cheesy hat:

Im going to break the trip blogs up, as I don't want to jinx blogger's photo uploading capabilities. More later from Franconia State Park where we rode a Gondola and hiked the flume...

The end

2007-08-24T09:39:00.000-04:00

This is it...my last day at HUP

11 years, 2 months and 19 days later.

YEEEEEEHAWWWWWWWW!

Tomorrow we are off to the Cape for the sabbatical...

I spent the day at VHUP yesterday and I am feeling confident and excited and super psyched.

More from the Cape!!!

Ravelry Update

2007-08-19T23:04:00.000-04:00

You signed up on June 29, 2007
You are #11590 on the list.
2131 people are ahead of you in line.
15157 people are behind you in line.
35% of the list has been invited so far

Well I'm getting there...
Until then, you will have to keep reading my long winded, pointless, beagle obsessed blog posts if you want to learn about me and my fiber. HAHAHAHA

5 More Days at HUP!!!! Giddyup!

I visited the stash tonight too...preparing for "the purge" which is going to happen soon (hint hint hint to all who "want" to help). I found some nice singles of Manos and one of Malabrigo that I'm going to use to make stuff got Afghans for Afghans...Ms Kelsey's favorite charity knitting project. She's got a group going on Ravelry for this and there is a BIG PUSH to send something like 30 cartons of stuff to Afghanistan this October. So, if you can help...knit a hat, a pair of mittens...socks...please do. Let me know if you need more information.

Also, speaking of Ms Kelsey...we (and Beth) went to see SuperBad today and it was Super Silly. A lovely way to spend a rainy Sunday.

SP 11 Contest 1 Questions and Answers...

2007-08-16T20:07:00.000-04:00

1. What is the one knitting accessory you could not live without?

I love my knit picks chart keeper. It is a powerful, portable chart keeper with magnets to mark your place in any lace pattern.

2. If you're heading on vacation, do you take knitting with you? If so, how much and what type of project?

Planning the yarn I'm taking on vacation is often more difficult then planning the clothes I'm bringing...and I always bring TOO MUCH! I usually pack socks, a scarf and a lace project. And a few extra balls "just in case." I almost always buy MORE yarn on vacation too and plan ahead my itinerary to visit shops

3. Where have you travelled to that you'd consider your favorite spot? I've traveled to Alaska,
Scotland, Ireland and England and all over the east coast (as far west as St Louis). I've also been to Canada (Ontario and Yukon).

My favorite places are Glen Coe, Glen Etive and the Isle of Skye...All in Scotland

4. What is your favorite knitting book at the moment? Do you own it?

I love Last Minute Knitted Gifts...probably because I've acutally made many of the projects in this book (not just one or two) and keep going back to this book over and over again. Yes, I own it. I also love Purl. I always work a visit into this store when I'm in New York City.

I also find myself "reading" Barbara Walker's stitch books over and over again. I own these (yes volumes 1-4) too.

5. Do you listen to podcasts? Which is your favorite(s)

I haven't been listening lately...but when I do, I listen to Cast On. I used to do a podcast...I'm knittyd of KnittyD and the City. Yes, our podcast is now defunct but it was fun while it lasted....

Re-Visiting the Bridge

2007-08-16T19:38:00.000-04:00

In Loving Memory of Murphy Brown Bach who died today, in the garden at the Joy House, surrounded by his mother (aka Murphy's Bitch), Barbara, his pops, Little Petey and his Beagle Brothers Harry and Luther.

Murphy fought a brave battle versus lung cancer since March '07. Mom and Dad focused on comfort and quality of life. Just three nights ago, Murph got his jollies on one last time with Maggie. He had developed a keen love of his diet of roast beef. Murphy was a special dog, who hated feet and the sound of raspberries (not the fruit, the noise you make with your lips). Mom and Dad gave him a wonderful life for the last 10 years after rescuing him from an abusive situation.

Allison (my sister) said today was really an appropriate day, because it is the anniversary of Elvis' death...the connection you ask? Murphy was the King and he ain't nothing but a hound dog.

I'm comforted to know that Molly, Max, Murphy, Casey and all the other dogs that have touched are lives are together, at the Rainbow Bridge, waiting for us.

Love you Brownie!

I need help...

2007-08-15T21:21:00.001-04:00

I am completely, utterly, hopelessly, crazily obsessed with "So You Think You Can Dance."

Tonight is the dancing finale and tomorrow night, we find out who is "America's favorite dancer." Going into the show I was routing for Sabra and Neil---but now I've seen three routines and I'm shiffting to Danny or Lacey. OH MY GOD!

Seriously. Is this what heat, humidity and the final countdown of this dead end crappy job have done to me?

But wait, it gets worse.

I bought tickets to the tour..FOuRTH ROW SEATS to the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE TOUR.

I figured my view won't be obstructed because everyone else at the show (Other than me and the three other ADULTS who are going with me) will be 12 years old and 4 feet tall.

So, 7 work days left at HUP. I'm feeling very very ready to let go and begin the next chapter of my (career )life. These docs who I've been working for for the last 9 years are FINALLY starting to show their gratitude towards me...it's amazing that I had to resign to get them to do that.

7 days of work left also means that I'm going BACK to Cape Cod next Saturday for TWO WEEKS of knitting, reading, sleeping and cooking. KICK ASS.

Speaking of the yarn...

I've got way too many Koigu shawls going...3. Of course I screwed up Maude...AGAIN. Actually it wasn't my fault, it was Maggie and Luther's fault. They jumped on me in the middle of a row and down went a few yarn overs...and a few stitches. What totally cranks me out about this, was that I was two(2) eight (8) row repeats from the center/turning short rows and then begins the decreases. Robin tells me the short rows/decreases go "much faster." But, I can't help but feel this project is jinxed. Has any one else ever had a jinxed project...one they messed up 72 two times and just couldn't finish? What happenend?

Shawls two and three have just got to MOVE ALONG. So, I've decided to focus first on my variation of the Sarah Blanch shawl (Folk Shawls) and plow through the rest of it. I mean for ****'s sake I started it in Scotland in May...it's got to get done. So maybe I can finish this during the first week of my sabbatical and then...

Focus on Koigu shawl #3 the Dale of Norway "Rectangle Shawl." This shawl needs a better name...please help. This will be the focus of week two of sabbatical.

Also needing to JUST GET DONE, The "Hunter's Safety Stole" in Black Bunny Lace Weight. These are the three projects that will be going on vacation with me. That's a lot of lace. BUT (big but) if I can finish them all by mid-late September that CLEARS the way for the dreaded HOLIDAY KNITTING. I'm putting the socks away for a bit. I hope no one else gets pregnant anytme soon...beacause I need to focus on me and my lace knitting.

I'm dying to go to Rosie's and check out the new Rowan fall collection and maybe get something for my secret pal...maybe this weekend.

Summer is winding down, and so is this blog.

This week's must have....

2007-08-13T22:11:00.000-04:00

Michael Vick Chew Toy

a must for animal lovers everywhere...

The Dirty Dog

2007-08-13T08:56:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was bath day here on the Cape.

When I visit, it is my duty to throw the dogs into the outdoor shower and counter the lovely hound dog smell that permeates from them. Everything was going really well...I did the twins first (Maggie and Luther), and they were thrilled they got to shower together. Then game Harry, who is just the BEST in the shower. Finally, it was Gussy's turn. Gus did pretty well; he likes the massage that comes with the shampoo rub down. When I was finished, I let him out of the shower to his grandmother for drying. Just a few short moments later, mom announces, "Chris, Gus is coming back in." Not willingly, I thought. No, he was FILTHY! Gus had decided to roll around in a hole he had dug beneath the kitchen windowns. I have never seen a dirtier dog. So, into the shower he went again. This time, when released into the wild, we kept him OUT of the giant hole and clean...for about 5 minutes. Gus then proceeded to hide in the "upper echelon" of the back yard, rolling around in dirt gleefully. When he resurfaced to come back in to the house, he looked like a pig that had rolled in shit....again. Mom and I were taking no prisoners this time; we brought Gus into the service kitchen and gave him his THIRD bath in the sink. THREE BATHS FOR THE DIRTY DOG!!! I wish we had photographed the carnage, but the camera was no where near; and I was covered in dirt and dog hair myself. So, the lesson we learned, Gus gets bathed in the kitchen...always.

Reasons Cape Cod Rocks

2007-08-11T10:25:00.000-04:00

1) Experimental Cooking with Barbara
-Last night we made Salmon with a dijon-honey-ginger-soy glaze and sweet onion and feta risotto...all from Cooking Light. One word, YUMMY.

2) Cooler temps and lower humidity. 'Nuff said

3) Beagles EVERYWHERE

4) Beach days

5) Watching the Phillies in the hot tub

6) Lots of time to idle away knitting (working mostly on Maude this weekend), reading (Currently reading Julie and Julia), napping and generally making fun of the silly things my father does...like right now, mowing the lawn when the grass is wet, overfilling the hot tub, putting 17 tennis balls under the covers in my bed...you get the picture

7) Mom's breakfast left overs...thanks to a very busy weekend at the B and B; today was breakfast pizza and scones.

8) Did I mention the beagles? Blogger is not cooperating with uploading photos. Let me just say they are SUPER CUTE...Maggie and Louie were playing in the fountain and chasing each other...Gus likes to lay in the sun.

9) Cut-throat Scrabble games. I lost twice last night.

10) Quality outlet shopping with Mom and Steven.

Cooler...

2007-08-08T23:57:00.000-04:00

I've arrived on the Cape and compared to the 106 degree heat index in Philly today it is DOWNRIGHT CHILLY! The trip was uneventful and the beagles and I are happy to be "home." Much to all of our surprise (or not), Murphy totally perked up when Gus and Maggie arrived! Mom has been anticipating that it is almost time to relieve his suffering...tonight I said, "not yet." I think if we hadn't separated them, he would still be chasing his girlfriend around.

Much more to come...I'm planning on catching up with photos...knitting...blogging...

Secret Pal Questions and Answers

2007-08-06T17:44:00.000-04:00

The Questionnaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I am a self proclaimed yarn snob. Favorite yarns include: Koigu, Silk Garden, Socks that Rock, Zephyr, Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock and Helen's Lace, Cashmere anything

I think Angora is lovely, but as soon as it gets up my nose I'm done for...allergies! I also tend to gravitate more to wool. I'm getting into the "green" movement and am interested in using more organic fibers. I haven't knit with bamboo yet, but it is on my to do list.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have the knitpicks interchangeable knitting set with its storage binder. I also have Ashland Sky needle cases. I use my BELOVED label maker on everything.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned to knit in 2001 and don't think many days have past since when I haven't done something related to knitting. I would consider myself an intermediate knitter.

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

5. What's your favorite scent? Lavender and Fabric Softener

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Oh god yes. Reses's Peanut Butter Cups, Baby Ruth. More important is my coffee addiction though. I have my office hours for my students at Starbucks.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I am a scrapbooker (mostly I scrapbook my travels). I enjoy photography. I don't spin and don't really want to learn.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I will listen to anything. I feel as though I am single handedly supporting Itunes. I like to knit to mixes of music including jazz, classical, folk, hip hop and alternative. I really don't like death metal much, but my brother in law does and at times I've been known to watch Pantera videos with him.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
These days I'm gravitating towards turquoise, brown, lavender/lilacs, pinks and green. I am blessed with a decent colored complexion so I can wear almost anything EXCEPT for YELLOW. I am not a yellow person.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am happily single. My life is run by my two rescued beagles, Maggie and Gus. I could be adding another dog in the coming months. I have a very small family and we all have spread out.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I love lace. It took me forever to figure it out, but once I finally did, I was done for. I'm proportioned in a strange way, so I don't really enjoy making sweaters or fitted garments. I also enjoy socks, cabled and entrelac patterns and making stuff for all my friends kids.

13. What are you knitting right now?
3 Shawls, all in Koigu. 2 Pairs of socks.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? sure!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum. I prefer circulars. I'm loving the addi lace needles but REALLY ADORE my knit picks set. I can't say enough good stuff about their needles.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? (I don't know how these questions got out of order). Yet to scarves, hats and mittens. Not so much on the poncho's.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? yes to both

17. How old is your oldest UFO? 6 years old; my first sweater. It's all knitted, just needs to be sewn up! How pathetic!
18. What is your favorite holiday? Halloween( Im going as Scooby Doo this year), my birthday and Christmas

19. Is there anything that you collect? Yarn, I've got a room full of stash.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? see question 1. I subscribe to Interweave. I don't read Knitters.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Fair Isle...I want to make the fingerless mitts in the Fall Interweave

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? yes, but for others, not for me

23. When is your birthday? 5/20

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? Here's my latest update from Ravelry:
You signed up on June 29, 2007
You are #11590 on the list.
3503 people are ahead of you in line.
11736 people are behind you in line.
34% of the list has been invited so far

I'm not holding my breath that I'll be on anytime soon.

Proof of Hot Balls

2007-08-04T22:13:00.001-04:00

Yes, that is right...I've found the proof that it is

HOT AS BALLS

Now in reality that is me being cheesy with some giant red concrete balls outside or OUR NEW TARGET! Yes it is finally a reality! The Target on City Line Ave has opened. It was huge, crowded and they have BIG CHEESY GIANT RED BALLS outside. Oh and did I mention the Starbucks IN THE TARGET?!

The heat is getting to me...

Did some MAJOR damage at the Rosie's Sidewalk sale today...pics to follow, including socks I started in the new Kaffe Fasset Regia yarn...so far it is pretty yummy.

The wait is over

2007-08-01T23:13:00.000-04:00

I've been waiting to write this entry for a while.

I've been a ball of anxiety for weeks which has rendered me able to do very little when not at work except for lay in front of the air conditioner playing "Snood." Add to that a raging summer sinus infection and horrible insomnia and I think you get the point...I've not been too much fun to be around.

I've been anxious because I've been interviewing for a new job and today I found out I got it.

I have accepted the position of Social Worker at the Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. I'll also be doing research in the Center for Interaction Between Animals and Society at Penn. Yes, it is a dream job...social work and animals...how could I miss?
I'll be focusing much of my work on acute grief/crisis mgmt and bereavement. I'm also interested in focusing some time developing a curriculm for Vet students (as teaching is part of the job) as well as support for pet parents coping with chronic pet illness.

After I received the offer today, I collapsed into my bed and slept like I hadn't since my vacation in May. It is bittersweet though...I've only ever worked HUP...11+ years---so this is a big move and as excited as I am, I am also terrified.

So bare with me for a while...it is a time of major change for me. My last day at HUP will be 8/24. Then I'll have a little R and R in Cape Cod before starting the new job in early September. To all of those who knew of my pursuits for this opportunity, I thank you for you support and encouragement through this process...now, it's time to CELEBRATE
Peace,

KnittyD