tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59685221502396560552024-03-14T03:14:33.540-05:00left of average, south of normala look at my varied and occasionally complex life.
this may include free recipes and patterns, but will be interspersed with rants, raves, and ponderings. consider yourself warned.simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-54917678956920903312013-04-09T12:30:00.000-05:002013-04-09T12:30:04.218-05:00something to talk aboutHey everyone. i know it's been a LONG, long time, but i'm not dead yet, honest!<br />
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I thought i'd drop a note here to say that, well, i've been busy. Busy living (which is not a bad way to be, i guess!)<br />
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Lets see... to update y'all:<br />
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Life news:<br />
Darling daughter is chugging through grade 2 curriculum<br />
Darling son is 4, and just starting to learn his letters (yay!)<br />
Husband has just changed jobs, and seems to be settling into the new one.<br /><br />
Fibre arts news:<br />
My mom and i are trying to 'officially' start our own business. Selling fiber-y goodness. Stay tuned for details (nothing official yet)<br />
I've got about 8 projects on the go, and more planned (yikes!) including one with a very short time-frame (1 week left)<br />
I'm also designing a new pattern. i'm not going to divulge any details yet, but i can say that it's something that will cover your shoulders, and that it will be a unique design (not something i got an idea from elsewhere. came from my own little head, it did!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SBsbYtX8Yk/UWROWn5aefI/AAAAAAAAAbU/6yXx4eqEqXk/s1600/P6042691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3SBsbYtX8Yk/UWROWn5aefI/AAAAAAAAAbU/6yXx4eqEqXk/s1600/P6042691.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">teaser from one of my ongoing projects :)</td></tr>
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Other news:<br />
Still dreaming about spring (yes, it IS April, but we still have over a foot of snow on the ground everywhere!)<br />
Going to start planning garden planting soon, and start some seeds.....hopefully this will be a great year!<br />
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How is your spring going?<br />
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<br />simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-90921830796146240872012-07-16T11:35:00.001-05:002012-07-16T11:35:37.413-05:00must be a blue moon. i'm posting again.Hey there everyone (anyone? *<i>tap tap</i>* is this thing on? )<br />
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regardless of readership (or lack thereof) i'm going to post a long-overdue update.<br />
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lets see.... <br />
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<b>family: </b>DD finished her Grade 1 homeschooling. Did quite well, particularly with language arts.<br />
DS is very three, and chugging slowly through potty training.<br />
DH has required, had, and recovered from surgery on his knee. he is now back to work (and looking for something better)<br />
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<b>Fiber: </b>still spinning and crocheting. have been re-learning knitting, and am halfway through a pair of socks for DH. Have alpaca fiber up to the eyebrows. Anyone want to buy some?<br />
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<b>Farm:</b> photos to follow below, but essentially:<br />
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Rooster has hate-on for me. Ducks love me. Many baby chickens (which almost look like adults, at only 5 weeks!)<br />
BABY alpaca! about 3 weeks old. cute as a button, but weird eyes. <br />
Garden is doing quite well this year, except for turnips, which have all but disappeared (flea beetles are suspected)<br />
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<b>Viking </b>- lots of new members, preparing for Gimli. Oh man... the list i have of things i still need to do is as long as my arm!<br />
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hope everyone else is enjoying their summer and keeping out of the heat of the day!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our 5 week old chicks, going bonkers for the food in the feeder. you'd think they hadn't been fed just hours before.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">baby alpaca. Named Dora. mom is brown, dad is grey. alpaca genetics are weird. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you can kindof see her odd eye coloring. the iris is jagged, rather than smooth.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">male Muscovy duck. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on our baking-apple tree. some of the crabs are starting to turn color!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">small garden. corn, kale, swiss chard, etc.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">large garden. squash, tomatoes, carrots, lettuce, potatoes.</td></tr>
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<br />simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-50812925433080213012011-11-14T17:35:00.001-06:002011-11-14T18:16:45.541-06:00Tumbling headfirst into the paleo diet -one tiny baby step at a timeSo, as a result of general malaise, chronic sugar addiction/cravings, and slow but steady weight gain, i've decided to try a different approach (generic 'moderation' and 'resist temptation' dieting not making any headway)<br />
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I'm always of the opinion that any diet you adopt should be a lifestyle, not something you take up for a few months merely to lose some pounds.<br />
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One of my relatives has been interested (though not precisely following) the paleo/primal diets for some time. I believe that the science behind them are fairly sound, if for no other reason than that high grain and refined carb. intakes can cause significant health problems over time. No, i'm not going to go into ANY science, because frankly, it's been done, by people MUCH more knowledgeable than me.<br />
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(one example is in the Paleo Solution, by Robb Wolf )<br />
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Thus I made the drastic decision a couple of weeks ago to *gasp* remove grains from my diet entirely!<br />
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Okay, not quite entirely, yet. I've removed all the obvious grain foods (bread, pasta, muffins, etc), and replaced them with more vegetables. I'm not yet worrying about trace amounts of grains in foods, or about legumes, or sweet corn. <br />
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Or, quite frankly, too much about the rest of the diet. Yet.<br />
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My focus right now is to eliminate grain, and drastically reduce refined sugars (not eliminate entirely as, well, i'm a bit of an addict, and cold turkey is a surefire way for me to fail!). Also, I am working on beefing up my intake of various veggies, from all points in the color spectrum.<br />
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There are some aspects of the diet i can't quite embrace yet.<br />
no dairy? um... i'm at fairly high risk of osteoporosis. i think i'll stick to having milk products, thanks.<br />
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no sweet corn or potatoes? well, i'm gonna keep these for now. i know, they're not ideal foods, but i don't eat corn every day, and potatoes are my 'replacement' for family meals (the rest of my family are not yet on the band wagon)<br />
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coconut and palm oil okay, but lard/tallow not? I disagree completely about palm oil, but agree with caveats to both coconut and lard. Coconut oil is a fine choice, IF it's not highly processed or hydrogenated (as the types in candy and the like often are!) Lard is OK though, if (and this is a big one) it's from a grass-fed animal, as it will have much healthier trace vitamins and components than grain-fed, and even that is better than the scary stuff they sell in the stores. Never goes bad? Doesn't need refrigerating? I think i'll pass.<br />
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Frankly, i LOVE using animal fats for cooking. give me some lard, tallow, or bacon grease any day, and i'll pan fry you some thing delicious ;)<br />
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so far? well, i haven't lost any weight. but i wasn't expecting to, in the short term. i'm expecting losses to begin in another week or two, and progress slowly, as i'm only about 30 pounds over my ideal (and the closer to ideal, the slower things generally go!)<br />
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Hopefully, i'll keep y'all updated a little more frequently.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VrWmEklbMVg/TsGvEbc8-aI/AAAAAAAAAaM/mXrNBiJHVFs/s1600/PB052292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VrWmEklbMVg/TsGvEbc8-aI/AAAAAAAAAaM/mXrNBiJHVFs/s320/PB052292.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oh look. some lovely smooshy roving. that i dyed. yay! then i found out the dyes are not colorfast. boo. completely unrelated to the post, but i wanted to put SOME sort of picture in here :)</td></tr>
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<br />simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-76167000358566946152011-09-18T14:32:00.003-05:002011-09-18T14:32:38.881-05:00crochet pattern: ribbed neckwarmerworked up a nice light button-up neckwarmer last week. it turned out nice enough i thought i'd share.<br />
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*note: this hasn't been tested, just written up as i made it. if you try it and find errors, please let me know!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ribbed Neckwarmer</b></span><br />
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<u>You will need:</u><br />
2 - 50g skeins or balls of worsted weight wool (or fiber of your choice)<br />
2 buttons, approx 2cm or 3/4 " across (or slightly larger)<br />
5.5mm crochet hook<br />
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<u>stitches used:</u><br />
ch = chain<br />
sc = single crochet<br />
DC or dc = double crochet<br />
FPDC or fpdc = front post double crochet<br />
BPDC or bpdc = back post double crochet<br />
ridge stitches = the vertical line of stitches being created by alternate fpdc and bpdc<br />
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NOTE: turning chain does <u>not</u> count as a stitch<br /><br />ch17, turn.<br />row 1: sc in second ch, sc across (16sc)<br />row 2: ch 1, turn. sc across (16sc)<br />repeat above row 17 more times, or until approximately square. continue to row A.<br />
<br />Row A: ch3, turn. DC across (16 dc)<br />Row B: ch3, turn. (FPDC in first stitch, dc in next stitch.) repeat across. note: this is your front side<br />
<br />Row C: ch3, turn. (BPDC in last rows fpdc, dc in<b> same stitch</b>, dc in next dc. ) repeat across, ending with BPDC in last fpdc, Dc in turning chain. (8 fp/bp ridges, each with 2dc between, 1 turning-ch/dc at each end)<br /><br />row D: ch3, turn. Fpdc in ridge stitches, dc in dc across.<br />row E: ch3, turn. bpdc in (sunken) ridge stitches, dc in dc across.<br /><br />Repeat rows D and E until ridged section is 15 1/2" long from row A to your working edge (adjust as necessary, but please finish on row E) If you have a very thick neck or like a very loose neckwarmer, work two extra rows at this point.<br /><br />row F: ch3, turn. (FPDC in ridged stitch, dc2tog) repeat across, ending with fpdc in last ridged stitch, dc in previous turning chain.<br /><br />row G: ch3, turn. (BPDC in ridged stitch, dc in dc) repeat across, (ending with dc in previous turning ch.)<br /><br />row H: ch3, turn. (fpdc in ridged stitch, dc in dc) repeat across.<br /><br />row I: ch1, turn. sc across.<br /><br />repeat row I 3 more times<br /><br />Row J: ch1, turn. sc in next 2 sc, ch 3 , skip next 3 sc, sc in next 4 sc, ch3, skip next 3sc, sc in last 3 sts. (two buttonholes made)<br />
<br />Repeat row I, working into chain stitches when necessary for 4 more rows. <br />
Finish off, working in ends where necessary.<br />
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<br />test-fit to determine button placement. stitch on buttons as desired.<br />
as the sc portions tend to curl at the edge, a gentle wet blocking is suggested.<br />
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good luck everyone!<br />
<br />simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-58164442840032386202011-09-15T15:06:00.000-05:002011-09-15T15:06:12.906-05:00photoblog 4 - spinning whirling twirlingi just wanted to show off my 'new' tool<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LK-_kzsckek/TnJYWmlMsPI/AAAAAAAAAZw/4VLDUAJ82lU/s1600/P9142067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LK-_kzsckek/TnJYWmlMsPI/AAAAAAAAAZw/4VLDUAJ82lU/s400/P9142067.JPG" width="353" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">new to me spinning wheel :) needs just a little love and it'll be spinning wonderfully!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mother of all and tension adjustment</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mi0y7pGirCY/TnJYtHx9SYI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/Tvw5_WMjQAI/s1600/P9152079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mi0y7pGirCY/TnJYtHx9SYI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/Tvw5_WMjQAI/s400/P9152079.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the 'working end'. orifice and maiden</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fq2FRUi5bhw/TnJY3zEfyjI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/JiWyaRpENXU/s1600/P9142070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fq2FRUi5bhw/TnJY3zEfyjI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/JiWyaRpENXU/s400/P9142070.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bobbin, flyer etc (before i took the mucky old yarn off it!) also, temporary cotton tensioner.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Now, with any luck, i'll be able to spin the lovely super-fine alpaca yarn i'm wanting to make (and then make soft wonderful stuff like shawls with)simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-45934657422034433582011-09-07T18:28:00.000-05:002011-09-07T18:28:26.552-05:00Adventures in homeschoolingHomeschooling is something i've always wanted to do (well, okay, wanted to do since i was adult enough to think about it). I had pretty crumby experiences in school, and knew that if my kids were in a similar school situation, they'd be just as likely as I was to come out of it scarred, rather than stronger. Thinking of all the quirky friends i know - and yes, that includes most of you! - i've come to realize that school specific situations (bullying, high stress levels, social competition, forced competitive sports etc) seem to be at least one of the major sources of their unhappiness (or psychological issues, or social problem). Now i know that's kindof sweeping, and it certainly isn't true in all cases, but it is what it is.<br />
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Following that, i've just officially enrolled my darling daughter in her first year of 'real' homeschooling. Last year we did Kindergarten curriculum, but i decided not to officially enroll her until we could see if homeschooling was going to work for her. It did, which makes me very happy.<br />
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This week, when most kids are trudging to their new classes to meet their new teachers, learning all those things they'd forgotten over the summer, and dealing with all those less-than-nice kids at the back of the bus.<br />
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My kids, however, spent all of today drawing, playing with blocks, doing string crafts, and playing outside.<br />
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Just as every parent is different, every homeschooling setup is different. My current setup (which is working, yay!) is this:<br />
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days 1-3: 3 pages of written work in a workbook, or equivalent: reading out loud, practicing spelling, etc. all count as a page. After, free to play or do alternative learning depending on the day.<br />
day 4: free and clear of written work, only "play-ducation" all day - so cooking, learning about nature, making music, science experiments and all that 'other' stuff fits here.<br />
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that's it. a 4 day rotation. We throw in lots of extra 'time off' days, as suits our schedule, and sometimes take our learning on the road if need be. <br />
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Our province allows for a child-centric curriculum, which allows us to do as much or as little 'traditional' schooling as we desire, as well as as putting in as much 'other stuff' as we want, without feeling the need to cram it in after-hours.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ1bqPJEpsw/Tmf8IJRYt5I/AAAAAAAAAZs/xJNtDmaFs3w/s1600/P2041291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ1bqPJEpsw/Tmf8IJRYt5I/AAAAAAAAAZs/xJNtDmaFs3w/s320/P2041291.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not a recent picture, but you get the idea</td></tr>
</tbody></table>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-708880999240326612011-07-10T10:21:00.000-05:002011-07-10T10:21:44.795-05:00photoblog 3 - Mary mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?quite poorly, actually. something about multiple hail storms and record breaking rain, added to late planting and you get a poor garden.<br />
<br />
the perennials are looking lovely though<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-echdjD0hVco/ThnC_AyIg1I/AAAAAAAAAZc/wj7nrf4RpAU/s1600/P6261714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-echdjD0hVco/ThnC_AyIg1I/AAAAAAAAAZc/wj7nrf4RpAU/s400/P6261714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CZKzO1JLAbY/ThnDB13EHVI/AAAAAAAAAZg/HZtawnq8LMs/s1600/P6261719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CZKzO1JLAbY/ThnDB13EHVI/AAAAAAAAAZg/HZtawnq8LMs/s400/P6261719.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L49WM9pMxdU/ThnDD35vorI/AAAAAAAAAZk/4q6vMG3iVuI/s1600/P6261724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L49WM9pMxdU/ThnDD35vorI/AAAAAAAAAZk/4q6vMG3iVuI/s400/P6261724.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xm58Q-1gc0U/ThnDIpBckrI/AAAAAAAAAZo/2VOOJ8QJBrw/s1600/P6261727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xm58Q-1gc0U/ThnDIpBckrI/AAAAAAAAAZo/2VOOJ8QJBrw/s400/P6261727.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">hope you all have lovely sunny days! </div>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-59447871549272359662011-07-07T23:24:00.000-05:002011-07-07T23:24:28.286-05:00photoblog 2 - old mcdonald had a ...chicken? how about a whole bunch of 'em!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HqnSu4xbpM/ThZ8-y0KwjI/AAAAAAAAAYU/vB9p5n3uHVQ/s1600/P7051742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HqnSu4xbpM/ThZ8-y0KwjI/AAAAAAAAAYU/vB9p5n3uHVQ/s400/P7051742.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some of the chicken dinners in the making!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iY_CFl3Q10s/ThZ9GoTSh1I/AAAAAAAAAYY/8cF2D8uRfLE/s1600/P7051752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iY_CFl3Q10s/ThZ9GoTSh1I/AAAAAAAAAYY/8cF2D8uRfLE/s400/P7051752.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the colored gals will be (mostly) laying birds</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q330ouYYczA/ThZ9NLE2s-I/AAAAAAAAAYc/iklsDDk8kBA/s1600/P7051756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q330ouYYczA/ThZ9NLE2s-I/AAAAAAAAAYc/iklsDDk8kBA/s400/P7051756.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">feeding frenzy! that's what a handful of dandelion greens'll get you!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AyD5xrsB3mw/ThZ-TxsO-VI/AAAAAAAAAYg/kd0Tz9vR1f4/s1600/P7051750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AyD5xrsB3mw/ThZ-TxsO-VI/AAAAAAAAAYg/kd0Tz9vR1f4/s320/P7051750.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="center"><td class="tr-caption">jack</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uxuXrsFNDUc/ThZ-ZEtRSfI/AAAAAAAAAYk/aYr4shdSR_o/s1600/P7051757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uxuXrsFNDUc/ThZ-ZEtRSfI/AAAAAAAAAYk/aYr4shdSR_o/s320/P7051757.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">carmella</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsUbwywJ978/ThZ-dIvIAII/AAAAAAAAAYo/8ThahjDrHNI/s1600/P7051760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsUbwywJ978/ThZ-dIvIAII/AAAAAAAAAYo/8ThahjDrHNI/s320/P7051760.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">helena</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span id="goog_208521016"></span><span id="goog_208521017"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqQjQK3iTMQ/ThaB1I4Wr5I/AAAAAAAAAYw/YpdOvj7fJmE/s1600/P7051762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqQjQK3iTMQ/ThaB1I4Wr5I/AAAAAAAAAYw/YpdOvj7fJmE/s320/P7051762.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kain</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwAtCkSq2IU/ThaB59QFlqI/AAAAAAAAAY0/4IZ8n729lWc/s1600/P7051764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwAtCkSq2IU/ThaB59QFlqI/AAAAAAAAAY0/4IZ8n729lWc/s320/P7051764.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demetrius</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j73dbAugaDc/ThaCRWcA0UI/AAAAAAAAAY4/YekIZDC3uRQ/s1600/P7051765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j73dbAugaDc/ThaCRWcA0UI/AAAAAAAAAY4/YekIZDC3uRQ/s320/P7051765.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inca Gold</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oTF16BlyoN8/ThaCVWrk_sI/AAAAAAAAAY8/Ik0AcgsWILo/s1600/P7051766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oTF16BlyoN8/ThaCVWrk_sI/AAAAAAAAAY8/Ik0AcgsWILo/s320/P7051766.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolatl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rWGpF6Me42s/ThaCpGvNwwI/AAAAAAAAAZA/_1qoCZjfLvI/s1600/P7051767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rWGpF6Me42s/ThaCpGvNwwI/AAAAAAAAAZA/_1qoCZjfLvI/s320/P7051767.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">habanero</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHlE02wpZZo/ThaCzOJixWI/AAAAAAAAAZE/UotC9qd6-Yg/s1600/P7051770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHlE02wpZZo/ThaCzOJixWI/AAAAAAAAAZE/UotC9qd6-Yg/s320/P7051770.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red</td></tr>
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the alpacas are a bit scruffy, but this is the first time we've done shearing on the farm.<br />
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<br />
In preparation for some soapmaking experiments next month, i made some rosewater.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dM0jWAHaXE/ThaEcQJ3INI/AAAAAAAAAZI/gXhv-x2AIDk/s1600/P7051735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dM0jWAHaXE/ThaEcQJ3INI/AAAAAAAAAZI/gXhv-x2AIDk/s320/P7051735.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fresh rose petals</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xfiTYiueues/ThaEhOaZAiI/AAAAAAAAAZM/8autOM1Z7eA/s1600/P7051737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xfiTYiueues/ThaEhOaZAiI/AAAAAAAAAZM/8autOM1Z7eA/s320/P7051737.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">weight down into distilled water</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ed-oSKYtVc/ThaFa2WlR5I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/Wq6tJBLiFC4/s1600/P7051739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ed-oSKYtVc/ThaFa2WlR5I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/Wq6tJBLiFC4/s320/P7051739.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">more petals to add. didn't think it was strong enough yet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfPoXdwtSr8/ThaFgVgFrII/AAAAAAAAAZU/uqqcBaUZxHE/s1600/P7051741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KfPoXdwtSr8/ThaFgVgFrII/AAAAAAAAAZU/uqqcBaUZxHE/s320/P7051741.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the petals fade almost instantly in the hot water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3V5wcFEsuPE/ThaGOoVwZ_I/AAAAAAAAAZY/PUj61B9En7U/s1600/P7061773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3V5wcFEsuPE/ThaGOoVwZ_I/AAAAAAAAAZY/PUj61B9En7U/s320/P7061773.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished. not much left of the petals after straining. (left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-16225316601606860652011-06-26T16:42:00.000-05:002011-06-26T16:42:20.408-05:00photoblog 1- yarn love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> just pics, folks. i'll caption them, but that's about all i've got time for at this exact moment...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkglTY4-w18/TgefeFFnywI/AAAAAAAAAXo/54uZPFvZ8fs/s1600/P5171576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkglTY4-w18/TgefeFFnywI/AAAAAAAAAXo/54uZPFvZ8fs/s400/P5171576.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our newest family member</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6dIJTCt398/TgefnCGzZkI/AAAAAAAAAXs/VPy5OpNS2jg/s1600/P6081650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6dIJTCt398/TgefnCGzZkI/AAAAAAAAAXs/VPy5OpNS2jg/s320/P6081650.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first attempt at edible-food coloring dying. the white is wool, the brown is alpaca, and the mesh bag holds angora.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zPaW3iO09K4/TgefxSoCMUI/AAAAAAAAAXw/uXEY-jGznqE/s1600/P6081651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zPaW3iO09K4/TgefxSoCMUI/AAAAAAAAAXw/uXEY-jGznqE/s320/P6081651.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the setup. used 2 sets of dye, just the green, blue and pink tablets. as the two sets were different brands, the colors were slightly different, leading to interesting color variations later.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYEFuNWogS4/TgehYgb7hUI/AAAAAAAAAX0/af4zgrhpsYU/s1600/P6081656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYEFuNWogS4/TgehYgb7hUI/AAAAAAAAAX0/af4zgrhpsYU/s400/P6081656.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">all the dye has been added, and the yarn pressed into the dye. had to add some water to bring the level up to an acceptable point.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrLansGB6-s/Tgeh21TCi2I/AAAAAAAAAX4/YSVTmpR4GNY/s1600/P6081668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrLansGB6-s/Tgeh21TCi2I/AAAAAAAAAX4/YSVTmpR4GNY/s320/P6081668.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my drying rack full of dyed batts</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isEssuCXaAw/TgeiBDVcIiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/DdYaX4WYGV4/s1600/P6131672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isEssuCXaAw/TgeiBDVcIiI/AAAAAAAAAX8/DdYaX4WYGV4/s320/P6131672.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a re-carded batt containing an odd bit of dyed wool and the dyed alpaca (the two skinny bits on the left of the photo above) plus some white wool. yes, i know it's a horrible looking batt. but as i'm planning on using it all myself, i don't worry about the slubs too much.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mBCboZvs7i0/TgeiJ85nXHI/AAAAAAAAAYA/ugvBWXmurG0/s1600/P6131673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mBCboZvs7i0/TgeiJ85nXHI/AAAAAAAAAYA/ugvBWXmurG0/s400/P6131673.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the batt above, spun fine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oa2WuW-VdVA/TgeiSaiZEBI/AAAAAAAAAYE/aAwdRADPLtA/s1600/P6241695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oa2WuW-VdVA/TgeiSaiZEBI/AAAAAAAAAYE/aAwdRADPLtA/s400/P6241695.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the finished yarn, chain-plied into about 50 yards of tweedy gently-shading yarn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojMkbIKxyDE/TgelAujM45I/AAAAAAAAAYI/YuBc24rv3bw/s1600/P6151683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojMkbIKxyDE/TgelAujM45I/AAAAAAAAAYI/YuBc24rv3bw/s400/P6151683.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">two of the three matching batts i dyed, pulled into rovings</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PMEVNX2cz6k/TgelH5Lyc2I/AAAAAAAAAYM/kyLr_8-MVgc/s1600/P6151685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PMEVNX2cz6k/TgelH5Lyc2I/AAAAAAAAAYM/kyLr_8-MVgc/s400/P6151685.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some of the same wool, spun up </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Y64CFFNhN8/TgelP3VaGDI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/AJ4zsZMMAc4/s1600/P6241697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Y64CFFNhN8/TgelP3VaGDI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/AJ4zsZMMAc4/s400/P6241697.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the finished yarn, plied 1-dyed, 1-plain white wool. about 400 yards total, and should stripe wide stripes of color.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>color is a bit off on some of these, but the best i can do what with the never-ending rain around here.simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-68002329755088656852011-03-11T09:42:00.000-06:002011-03-11T09:42:26.363-06:00are you ready for the end of times?okay. This isn't going to be a super-serious 'the sky is falling' kindof post. I figure you all are smart enough to make your own decisions as to whether it's just an acorn falling, or something more serious.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://api.ning.com/files/1V-bpqIr1y-nQaSn9uZvPwZu2PsHNpbgkcmo9QxgZF4MgNPXtKWVJMaIbnVBJHlwlJsT2m9R8vMsr3o-4x5q7QvKOYxE9flI/zombies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://api.ning.com/files/1V-bpqIr1y-nQaSn9uZvPwZu2PsHNpbgkcmo9QxgZF4MgNPXtKWVJMaIbnVBJHlwlJsT2m9R8vMsr3o-4x5q7QvKOYxE9flI/zombies.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://davebuttoned.blogspot.com/2010/05/one-hit-wonders-of-90s-part-13-zombie.html">this page</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A quiz - How ready are you for the zombie apocalypse?</b></span><br />
<br />
You might be accepting of the idea of bad things happening soon, you might be in denial, you might even think they’re already happening. Whatever your perception, eventually the gods/ lady luck/ karma are going to end up flattening the thus-far rather lucky human race. Is it going to be zombies, or wild weather, or Government breakdown, or nuclear war, or even just a massive stock market crash? Who knows. On the assumption that it IS coming though, how ready are you for when it happens?<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>*disclaimer: this is not scientifically designed. It is for entertainment purposes only. And to make you think.*</i><br />
<br />
<br />
This is old school quiz style. Grab a pencil and paper, or a notepad file, and write down the question numbers and the *<u>most applicable</u>* answer (one answer per question, unless noted, and pick the one that is closest to the truth for you)<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1</b>. Lets start with an easy one: food. How prepared are you food-wise for an emergency situation?<br />
<b>A</b>. I only eat fresh produce, and shop at the grocery or market at least three times a week.<br />
<b> B</b>. I have at least 3 months of canned and dried goods stocked in my cupboards.<br />
<b>C</b>. I eat out at restaurants most of the time, my fridge is used for holding beverages and ketchup.<br />
<b> D</b>. I have 3 years worth of MRE’s once my six months of canned goods and freezer full of food are used up.<br />
<b>E</b>. I’ve got a few bulk staples, but I’d run out of food in a couple of weeks.<br />
<b> F</b>. I’ll just go to my mom’s. She makes good food. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>2</b>. Okay. Let’s say there’s no electricity, or you’re stranded for some reason out of doors. How are your survival skills?<br />
<b>A</b>. that’s what a cell phone is for, right?<br />
<b>B</b>. I can start a fire with matches, own at least one pocket knife, and know what poison ivy looks like.<br />
<b>C.</b> I live in a city, but I’m prepared. I’ve got a generator, candles, and a solar-powered radio.<br />
<b> D</b>. I’ve done extensive wilderness camping, and love going out in the forest for a week with nothing but what I’ve got in my pockets<br />
<b>E</b>. I’ve got a book on survival skills, and I’ve read it.<br />
<b> F</b>. I know how to create a shelter, start a fire without matches or a lighter, and find water for survival.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>3</b>. Water. The stuff of life. Do you got some?<br />
<b>A</b>. I’ve got a six pack of coke and a dozen beer. I’ll be fine.<br />
<b> B</b>. I know a local above-water source or low-tech well, and have a decontamination system/plan in place for when my in-house water is used up.<br />
<b>C</b>. I have a water cooler and at least 2 - 3.5gal jugs.<br />
<b>D</b>. I have a large storage tote or set of containers of drinkable water that I change at least once a year, when I cycle out my old canned goods from my emergency stash<br />
<b> E</b>. I’ve got some iodine tablets in with my camping gear. I hear they make the water taste horrible though. Oh, And I’ve heard you can drink the water from your toilet tank too. Eew.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>4</b>. This zombie madness is lasting longer than you expected. Your food has run out. What do you do now?<br />
<b> A</b>. I pull out my foraging manual, and start figuring out what plants I can find to eat.<br />
<b> B</b>. It shouldn’t run out, because I’ll be gardening and hunting/farming to keep augmenting it. I’ll have my larder stocked full come fall.<br />
<b>C</b>. I’ll seriously start considering cannibalism…eventually. After all, if the Donner party could do it, so can i.<br />
<b> D</b>. I’ll barter one of my skills to a local surviving farmer for food. <br />
<b>E</b>. I’ll go out into the country and steal some. After all farms have lots of food, that’s where food is made,<br />
right?<br />
<b>F</b>. I run to the grocery store. Duh.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>5</b>. How reliant are you on medicine/drugs/alcohol for your daily physical or mental well-being?<br />
<b>A</b>. I’m on a lot of different medications prescribed by my doctor.<br />
<b> B</b>. I’ve got a drug/alcohol/cigarette habit. But I can kick it any time.<br />
<b>C</b>. My body is a temple. I don’t use any habit forming or unhealthy products, and only ingest homegrown food and clean water.<br />
<b>D</b>. Sure I’ve got a habit, but I grow/brew my own. So piss off. No, you can’t have any.<br />
<b> E</b>. I’m on some sort of regular medication that I take all the time.<br />
<b>F</b>. I’m an occasional user of either meds or drugs/alcohol. I don’t use anything all the time though.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>6</b>. Oh dear. Someone has been seriously injured. Can you help them?<br />
<b>A</b>. I’ve got basic first aid knowledge, but not much past that.<br />
<b>B</b>. I’m a doctor or nurse, <i>and</i> I regularly do things like set bones and suture wounds<br />
<b>C</b>. I tend to faint every time I see blood<br />
<b>D</b>. I’ve got a book around here somewhere on medicine. I’ll just look up their symptoms and see what it says to do.<br />
<b> E</b>. I’ve got basic knowledge of first aid and emergency training, but for anything tough I’ll likely have to rely on either someone else, or on a book to figure it out.<br />
<b> F</b>. I would perform CPR on them. Or the Heimlich maneuver. I’m also pretty good with bandaids.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>7</b>. Gee, Fluffy, your Pekinese puppy has run out of food. What do you do?<br />
<b> A</b>. get out a sharp knife, say a prayer, then butcher him. No way are we going to waste valuable protein.<br />
<b>B</b>. I‘ll let him have some of my food. That way we can starve together.<br />
<b>C</b>. I let him outside, so he can fend for himself. He’s a wild animal. He’ll be fine.<br />
<b> D</b>. I’ll give him to the nice lady across the street. She’s got a bunch of pets…. Though I haven’t seen any of them lately…<br />
<b> E</b>. I’ll go and find a store-house with more dogfood. I’m sure no-one’s thought to raid them yet.<br />
<b> F</b>. I’ll put him down and we’ll bury him. No sense being cruel and letting him starve.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>8</b>. Slavering zombies have showed up in your yard, demanding brains, as well as your TV and valuables. How prepared are you to protect your own?<br />
<b>A</b>. I have a gun and I've taken it to a hunting range a few times.<br />
<b>B</b>. I’ve got a buncha kitchen knives. That’s gotta slow them down.<br />
<b>C</b>. I have been in the army. I have the skills I need, if I have to protect myself and my family..<br />
<b>D</b>. I go hunting regularly, and am proficient with both a blade and firearm.<br />
<b>E</b>. I’ve got mad ninja skillz I learned from a game on my X-box.<br />
<b>F</b>. I can use both blades as well as firearms/bows with skill, but in a pinch, I can go without. With skill and training, almost _anything_ can be used as a weapon. Particularly against un-skilled zombies.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>9</b>. Damn. This zombie madness seems to be unending. What skills do you have that you can use for long term survival?<br />
*<b> for this question mark down each letter that applies to you</b>*<br />
<br />
<b>A.</b> I know how to make things out of wood or metal using low-tech means.<br />
<b>B</b>. I can make fabric from raw materials, and/or make clothing and other useful items from fabric or animal skins. Or I can tan animal hides.<br />
<b> C</b>. I'm really good with a computer, but I have no non-electric skills. Guess I’ll just have to steal or kill for what I want.<br />
<b>D</b>. I’m not very skilled yet, but I’m willing to learn, even if it means I’m the guy doing the boring jobs for a long time. At least I’ll be surviving!<br />
<b>E</b>. I am a proficient gardener, and know at least 3 ways of preserving food without electricity.<br />
<b> F</b>. I am good with animals and have experience caring for livestock OR I can hunt without using a gun, successfully. And have. <br />
<b>G</b>. I can (and have) brewed and/or distilled alcohol. And it tastes good<br />
<b>H</b>. I’ve got lots of books and files on my computer with how-to manuals. I’m sure I can figure something out.<br />
<b>I</b>. I have medical training, and sufficient skills to use it.<br />
<b>J</b>. those who can’t…. yeah. I can teach. I can teach the 3 R’s to children, so they can be smart enough to get out of this mess eventually!<br />
<b>K</b>. I’m good at scavenging and making do, and can MacGyver stuff together fairly efficiently.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Scoring:</b></span><br />
Overall, questions are scored 0-5 points, 5 points indicating the highest preparation, 0 points indicating little or no preparation.<br />
<br />
Note: for question 9, points are additive, not one answer only!<br />
<br />
<br />
1. A-1 B-4 C-0 D-5 E-2 F-1<br />
2. A-0 B-3 C-1 D-5 E-1 F4<br />
<br />
3. A-0 B-5 C-2 D-4 E-1<br />
4. A-3 B-5 C-2 D-4 E-1 F-0<br />
<br />
5. A-0 B-1 C-5 D-5 E-1 F-4<br />
6. A-3 B-5 C-0 D-1 E-4 F-2<br />
<br />
7. A-2 B-1 C-1 D-3 E-0 F-4<br />
8. A-2 B-1 C-4 D-4 E-0 F-5<br />
<br />
DON’T FORGET TO ADD EACH CORRECT ANSWER FOR QUESTION 9!<br />
<br />
9. A-3 B-3 C-0 D-2 E-3 F-3 G-3 H-1 I-3 J-2 K-3<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you scored:<br />
<br />
0-10<br />
You have a lot of work ahead of you. Perhaps this just isn’t something you’ve thought of before, or you purposefully decided to hide your head in the sand. Taking a first aid course, a gardening class or a handgun training course might be a good idea. Think about small steps you can make now, like buying some foods with long shelf-life, and getting a jug of water to put away in case of an emergency. Every small step in the right direction counts!<br />
<br />
11-30<br />
Well you’ve got some skills, but you have a lot to learn. You maybe have more ‘book learning’ than hands-on, and that’s something you can concentrate on fixing. Perhaps you don’t have a lot of useful skills. Ask your local woodworker/blacksmith/weaver to teach you some basics. Get your mother or grandmother to teach you how to do some canning. You might even find you like it!<br />
<br />
31-50<br />
You’ve spent a fair bit of time preparing and learning skills. You have a good idea what you’ll do when the zombies come, and have probably talked about it with your family. Now is the time to look with an objective eye and see what areas you’re still weak in, then focus your energies there.<br />
<br />
51 and up<br />
You are pretty prepared. You have the skills, the stores, and the knowledge to allow you to last during a catastrophic event. Just don’t let your skills get rusty! Keep thinking, planning and helping others with their own learning and planning!<br />
<br />
<br />
As a note, I scored myself at 44. Still got a ways to go before I feel _really _ prepared.simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-44904782803838183072011-02-28T19:06:00.000-06:002011-02-28T19:06:05.359-06:00of goings on in wintertimeI'm sitting here watching my plants slowly die (it's end of season for my peppers and tomatoes, and they're going down fast!) and thinking about what to plant for the new season. I decided to list all the seeds i had saved here and there around the house, and figure out what i actually wanted to plant. Plus, i also need to amalgamate plans with mom, as we're sharing the garden. I'm pretty sure i'll be planting: white carrots, zucchini, pumpkins, and at least two types of tomatoes (likely more). must. do . more. planning.... :D<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5CBPEhMvrFY/TWxCa7niBWI/AAAAAAAAAXk/fZuYC63OC3s/s1600/P2281381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5CBPEhMvrFY/TWxCa7niBWI/AAAAAAAAAXk/fZuYC63OC3s/s320/P2281381.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I got a swap gift in the mail today (and yes, i did a girly little happy dance as i started to open it!). <br />
above is the first unwrapping (a postcard, and gift in bag)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J2HgCPzlsrM/TWxCOrv0XcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/1yII2sFIZb0/s1600/P2281384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J2HgCPzlsrM/TWxCOrv0XcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/1yII2sFIZb0/s320/P2281384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>next layer in, some toffee and the gift itself... this was a magic yarn ball swap, and my swap partner had it wrapped up beautifully!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qodhRWO7sa4/TWxCEcchtBI/AAAAAAAAAXc/1igkfcjIGUE/s1600/P2281387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qodhRWO7sa4/TWxCEcchtBI/AAAAAAAAAXc/1igkfcjIGUE/s320/P2281387.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>partway through unwinding the yarn ball inside... so. much. yarn. woohoo!<br />
you can't really tell, but it's a lovely variegated green. i think it will work into something crocheted (or loom knit) beautifully!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R30XbX6xTOY/TWxB6Rv9hMI/AAAAAAAAAXY/tH6n1ftkj8c/s1600/P2281393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R30XbX6xTOY/TWxB6Rv9hMI/AAAAAAAAAXY/tH6n1ftkj8c/s400/P2281393.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and finally, all the goodies that were inside. You see, a Magic yarn ball is a bunch of treats/goodies/things wrapped together in yarn, and the recipient gets to re-roll the yarn and find all the surprises inside!<br />
<br />
in other news, my Strawberry mead is smelling WONDERFUL!... just about time to move it to the carboy, i think.<br />
<br />
i`ve been crocheting a fair bit, and my spinning is currently on hold and will likely be so for a while, because March is National Crochet Month. Because of this, I plan on crocheting every day for the next month, no breaks (which of course means that i`ll be doing less spinning/loomknitting as a result)<br />
<br />
i'm definitely ready for some warmer weather... maybe some rain.... melting snow.... anything?? yeah. soon, i hope.simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-36541587642469209532011-02-20T20:05:00.000-06:002011-02-20T20:05:18.466-06:00Of winter, and fleece, and all things indoorshey folks. Guess i'm not feeling very blog motivated these days. Sorry.<br />
<br />
However, i have been keeping myself busy (of course!)<br />
<br />
my daughter is doing better everyday with her home education. she's beginning to sound words out fairly accurately, when prompted, and is starting to learn about telling time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mn3JcJcphek/TWG-4WrDUJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/N7cPT0w-J1k/s1600/P2011256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mn3JcJcphek/TWG-4WrDUJI/AAAAAAAAAWs/N7cPT0w-J1k/s400/P2011256.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">strawberry mead, brewing right now! yum!! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCPwTQoqtag/TWG_RpJsGKI/AAAAAAAAAW4/AxgP8y3zXSs/s1600/P2121322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCPwTQoqtag/TWG_RpJsGKI/AAAAAAAAAW4/AxgP8y3zXSs/s320/P2121322.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first knit sock. no, really! i'm using a sock loom. it's slow, but very interesting!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I've recently purchased some icelandic fleece, and have washed a pound of it...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an7xG-ibQvs/TWG_armwAqI/AAAAAAAAAW8/2Jb08ObCbgI/s1600/P2121336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an7xG-ibQvs/TWG_armwAqI/AAAAAAAAAW8/2Jb08ObCbgI/s400/P2121336.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yup, that's what a pound of fleece looks like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It washed really really easily, and i'm very happy with the result. i also washed an 'extra' bit the seller threw in. unfortunately, the grease had hardened, and i was unable to completely clean it. I will be trying to comb and spin it, but don't expect fantastic results.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Icelandic fleece is much different than your 'average' white wooly sheep's fleece. it has two different parts of the hair, a long coarse hair, and a much shorter, very fine hair.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duAaV8IXntI/TWG_IjSUYBI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0WkwMF0sqBo/s1600/P2111321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duAaV8IXntI/TWG_IjSUYBI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0WkwMF0sqBo/s400/P2111321.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>this fleece is grey, however you may notice that the skinny ends are dark grey, while the fluffy thick bits are light grey.<br />
I decided to test-separate some of the fleece, because as far as i can tell, they did that historically (the coarse hairs had one set of uses, the fine another set. makes sense to me. dual purpose fibers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ei4ptE2Mumg/TWG_jFdkfGI/AAAAAAAAAXA/aFUKEMaVQ7E/s1600/P2131340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ei4ptE2Mumg/TWG_jFdkfGI/AAAAAAAAAXA/aFUKEMaVQ7E/s400/P2131340.JPG" width="300" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">as you can see, the fibers are very different in color once separated. The fine hairs were actually nearly perfectly white if i take all the coarse hairs out! However, i'm only going to pull the longest and coarsest, leaving a bit of grey in the softer fibers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5edegoKTmU/TWG_q4A5L4I/AAAAAAAAAXE/BQeHpC7YGS8/s1600/P2161350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5edegoKTmU/TWG_q4A5L4I/AAAAAAAAAXE/BQeHpC7YGS8/s400/P2161350.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>some yarn i've spun, drip drying after being washed and set.<br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u9cV1oR7cqk/TWHHbKdDLTI/AAAAAAAAAXM/vbFpVspnxI8/s1600/P2101318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u9cV1oR7cqk/TWHHbKdDLTI/AAAAAAAAAXM/vbFpVspnxI8/s400/P2101318.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a little yarn porn ;) my most recently finished yarn. it's 50/50 alpaca and wool</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47JKeh0UUN0/TWG_0vpfr7I/AAAAAAAAAXI/7gf2Z3lymMA/s1600/P2161353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-47JKeh0UUN0/TWG_0vpfr7I/AAAAAAAAAXI/7gf2Z3lymMA/s400/P2161353.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>and this is my currently-being blocked super-crazy colorwork crochet project. (in case you're wondering, it's a row of running feegles, a la Terry Pratchett) <br />
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hope everyone is staying warm, and planning your gardens!simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-38379320360736639652011-01-22T11:45:00.002-06:002011-01-22T13:43:33.664-06:00Returning from Hiatushello again. I'm back. I've been a busy girl, just not on the blogging front. I've been crocheting and spinning a lot, as well as baking, cooking, childcare-ing, and homeschooling.<br />
<br />
i have been enjoying the 'bounty' of my window garden (thus far 6 hot peppers and 4 small tomatoes)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsSKkGOKnI/AAAAAAAAAWU/Tb2oNnIkJe0/s1600/P1111132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsSKkGOKnI/AAAAAAAAAWU/Tb2oNnIkJe0/s320/P1111132.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
i also took part in a swap on ravelry (the swap was for Imbolc, but i've opened it early) and i thought i'd show you what i got!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsTrEv0F6I/AAAAAAAAAWY/FEm6tTgK0fg/s1600/P1151214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsTrEv0F6I/AAAAAAAAAWY/FEm6tTgK0fg/s400/P1151214.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsT-dOkhVI/AAAAAAAAAWc/PP3L4WrhzVw/s1600/P1151210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsT-dOkhVI/AAAAAAAAAWc/PP3L4WrhzVw/s400/P1151210.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
that huge ball is wool roving from a rare breed of sheep called the Coburg Fox Sheep, and the wood box is full of charcoal and incense. Such lovely stuff :D<br />
<br />
here's a peek at a couple of my ongoing projects:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsVm1RpRoI/AAAAAAAAAWg/GqfDVWa7l08/s1600/P1211242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsVm1RpRoI/AAAAAAAAAWg/GqfDVWa7l08/s320/P1211242.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a bat-wing style shawl made with some yarn i just LOVE!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsV8d3IsJI/AAAAAAAAAWk/O1qdQyBiy5Y/s1600/P1211225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TTsV8d3IsJI/AAAAAAAAAWk/O1qdQyBiy5Y/s320/P1211225.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% alpaca, spun fine. to be plied with wool.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
in other news: um... no, not really any other news. am slowly starting to re-connect with old friends locally, which is nice and a real stress relief.<br />
<br />
hope everyone is having a safe and warm winter... take it easy!simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-35431084155254700142010-12-11T21:07:00.000-06:002010-12-11T21:07:31.875-06:00Yuletide Linkification, now with snark!I'm not feeling terribly motivated to post something long today, as DS just had his birthday party, and i'm wiped.<br />
<br />
so.... in lieu of a more insightful and thoughtful post... you get some Yuletide links to other interesting stuff! (yay)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2314690_celebrate-yule.html">How to celebrate Yule</a> - basic ideas, good for someone not familiar with the holiday<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_5629535_celebrate-family-yule.html">celebrating yule as a family</a> - lot of diverse ideas. might try some of these this year!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4578105_decorate-wiccan-yule-altar.html">Decorating a Yule Altar</a> - decent ideas. going to try to get my altar set up this week... well... maybe. we'll see how it goes. still have tons of gifts to wrap (and wrappers [<a href="http://www.env.go.jp/en/focus/attach/060403-5.gif">furoshiki</a>] to sew) yikes!<br />
<br />
(more on <a href="http://furoshiki.com/about/">furoshiki here,</a> if you are not familiar with them)<br />
<br />
and now, for your sing along song....<br />
<br />
something just a little snarky (do not sing this in front of dear old Aunt Edith with the rosary beads clutched in her hands. It might just be too much for her!)<br />
<br />
note: youtube karaoke singalong below the words.<br />
<br />
another note: borrowed the words from this page <a href="http://www.sanfords.net/Pagan_Humor_and_Thoughts/Pagan_Yule_songs.htm">here</a><br />
<br />
yet another note: you really should sing along, eh? (well okay, unless you're at work...... YOU can hum along instead!)<br />
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<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr align="left" style="color: #4c1130;"><td width="100%"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong>CHRISTMAS TIME IS PAGAN!</strong><br />
(Gloria in Excelsius Deo)</span></td> </tr>
<tr align="left"> <td style="color: #4c1130;" width="100%"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br />
CHORUS: Glorious!<br />
Christmas time is pagan!<br />
Glorious!<br />
Christmas time is pagan!<br />
<br />
Christmas time is here again,<br />
Decorations everywhere.<br />
Christmas carols ringing out,<br />
Gentle pagans, we don't care.<br />
<br />
Modern folks all celebrate<br />
What they learned in Sunday School.<br />
In December, they don't know<br />
They are celebrating Yule!<br />
<br />
Let them have their Christmas trees,<br />
Decked in red and green and blue.<br />
We rejoice at every one!<br />
Christmas trees are pagan, too.<br />
<br />
Bowls of bubbly Christmas cheer,<br />
Fill your cup and quench your thirst.<br />
They think the tradition's theirs.<br />
Wassail bowls were pagan, first.</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> Every door and window bears<br />
Wreaths of holly, wreaths of pine.<br />
Circles represent the Sun.<br />
Every wreath is yours and mine.<br />
<br />
Christmas lights on Christmas trees,<br />
Candle flames burn higher and higher,<br />
Let us cheer along, my friends,<br />
As they light their Yuletide fire.<br />
<br />
There's a possibility<br />
That this song is yours and mine<br />
'Cause the tune was known to all<br />
Back in A.D. one-two-nine.<br />
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<br />
This doesn't mean we don't buy items. Honestly, about half our gifting in any one year is purchased, particularly items within our household, but i think this is in part because the handmade goods get given within the house throughout the year.<br />
<br />
one gift some of our family and friends can expect this year is pictured below:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mU1a7TxI/AAAAAAAAAV8/LZtjlMhhXwI/s1600/PC061062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mU1a7TxI/AAAAAAAAAV8/LZtjlMhhXwI/s400/PC061062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">orange and cherry fondants, with the small centre bits of chocolate covered candied ginger</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mdMkRwjI/AAAAAAAAAWA/hfghLANSw80/s1600/PC061061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mdMkRwjI/AAAAAAAAAWA/hfghLANSw80/s400/PC061061.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">candied ginger and eggnog fondant</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mxuqydBI/AAAAAAAAAWE/JCFjs0AbFNs/s1600/PC061057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6mxuqydBI/AAAAAAAAAWE/JCFjs0AbFNs/s400/PC061057.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">coffee, peppermint, and chocolate flavours</td></tr>
</tbody></table>this was all made with one batch of filling, and the recipe for it is on <a href="http://joybilee-farm.blogspot.com/2010/11/hand-dipped-chocolates-recipe-makes-2.html">joybilee farm</a>.<br />
<br />
all told, i made over 3 pounds of chocolates!!!<br />
<br />
one recipe i improvised was for the coffee flavored filling. i used the following:<br />
1tbsp Kahlua<br />
1/2 tbsp instant coffee<br />
<br />
to note with many of the filling recipes: some are too dry, and need extra butter (or a few drops of water)<br />
and the rest are too moist, and need extra icing sugar. but they all taste wonderful!<br />
<br />
<br />
oh, and one more thing: here's the finished super-secret gift for you to see:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6w7LihozI/AAAAAAAAAWI/43j6la2Lwls/s1600/PC071068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP6w7LihozI/AAAAAAAAAWI/43j6la2Lwls/s400/PC071068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">asymmetrically striped dogswool/wool mitts</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
and for music today, here is a page with a number of songs, most containing an audio file. lots of nice variants on old standards!<br />
<a href="http://www.odins-gift.com/mp3/suiteofyulesongs.htm">http://www.odins-gift.com/mp3/suiteofyulesongs.htm.</a>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-20281501996642975142010-12-07T14:47:00.000-06:002010-12-07T14:47:56.510-06:00yuletide and still random :D<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP2z1Y9qwRI/AAAAAAAAAVw/0KL_sNsn9aQ/s1600/PC061056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP2z1Y9qwRI/AAAAAAAAAVw/0KL_sNsn9aQ/s320/PC061056.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this years tree... still waiting on popcorn strings and the like</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP2z-90FA5I/AAAAAAAAAV0/B7QvSK6ft6A/s1600/PC041051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP2z-90FA5I/AAAAAAAAAV0/B7QvSK6ft6A/s320/PC041051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yarn for super-secret project. it contains suint-ferment cleaned wool and detergent washed dog hair. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP20JJqHXaI/AAAAAAAAAV4/YXKcy_8Xez8/s1600/PC041049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP20JJqHXaI/AAAAAAAAAV4/YXKcy_8Xez8/s320/PC041049.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the skein. it should work up as striping. we shall see.<br />
<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">(words below and more can be found at <a href="http://www.odins-gift.com/poth/L-Q/otannenbaum.htm">http://www.odins-gift.com/poth/L-Q/otannenbaum.htm</a>, as well as an mp3 of their version of the song!) </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-left: 140px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">O Tannenbaum </span><br />
<i>German traditional, transl. by Diana L. Paxson:</i></div><div style="margin-left: 140px;">O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
With faithful leaves unchanging;<br />
Not only green in summer´s heat,<br />
But also winter´s snow and sleet,<br />
O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
With faithful leaves unchanging.</div><div style="margin-left: 140px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-left: 140px;">O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
Of all the trees most lovely;<br />
Each year, you bring to me delight<br />
Gleaming through the Solstice night.<br />
O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
Of all the trees most lovely.</div><div style="margin-left: 140px;"><br />
</div> O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
Your leaves will teach me, also,<br />
That hope and love and faithfulness<br />
Are precious things I can possess,<br />
O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum,<br />
Your leaves will teach me, also.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-77876133504352355082010-12-06T17:51:00.000-06:002010-12-06T17:51:14.808-06:00Winter and wassailing<h2 align="center"><b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7XO5Zs-qlx4?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7XO5Zs-qlx4?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> </span></b></h2><h2 align="center"><b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: black;">The Wassail Song (slightly altered)</span></span></b></h2><h2 align="center"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small;">Here we come a-wassailing<br />
Among the leaves so green,<br />
Here we come a-wand'ring<br />
So fair to be seen.<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year.<br />
<br />
We are not daily beggers<br />
That beg from door to door,<br />
But we are neighbors' children<br />
Whom you have seen before<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year.<br />
<br />
Good master and good mistress,<br />
As you sit beside the fire,<br />
Pray think of us poor children<br />
Who wander in the mire.<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year<br />
<br />
We have a little purse<br />
Made of ratching leather skin;<br />
We want some of your small change<br />
To line it well within.<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year.<br />
<br />
Bring us out a table<br />
And spread it with a cloth;<br />
Bring us out a cheese,<br />
And of your Yuletide loaf.<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year.<br />
<br />
Gods bless the master of this house,<br />
Likewise the mistress too;<br />
And all the little children<br />
That round the table go.<br />
Love and joy come to you,<br />
And to you your wassail, too,<br />
And Gods bless you, and send you<br />
A Happy New Year,<br />
And Gods send you a Happy New Year. </span></b></span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP1w-ANGCbI/AAAAAAAAAVo/CmSc64pdXBo/s1600/PB251032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP1w-ANGCbI/AAAAAAAAAVo/CmSc64pdXBo/s400/PB251032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP1xIxk60mI/AAAAAAAAAVs/2CsZ7oXFbx8/s1600/PB251036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TP1xIxk60mI/AAAAAAAAAVs/2CsZ7oXFbx8/s400/PB251036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">as much as i love the changing of the seasons, winter is admittedly my least favorite, and not only because we get winter-like weather for up to six months of the year here!</span></span></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">the photos above are of my driveway and yard about 4 days ago, shortly after a snowfall (one of many so far)</span></span></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">and are sent out specially for those of you in warmer climates who might not get as much cold weather... see all that white.... even the sky is frosty off white a good portion of the time. *sigh* oh well.... it's almost yule :) yay!</span></span><b><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></span></h2>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-90297135482058264312010-12-04T09:30:00.000-06:002010-12-04T09:30:19.117-06:00Yuletide traditions, a conversation (with added music!)them: so, you're Pagan, right?<br />
<br />
me: yeah...<br />
<br />
them: so, do you celebrate Christmas?<br />
<br />
me: no, we (my family) celebrate Yule, or winter Solstice, which is around the 21st of December.<br />
<br />
them: what about presents? santa claus? christmas tree? everything else?<br />
<br />
me: well, Yule is a celebration of the end of the fall and the beginning of winter. the winter solstice is the darkest day of the year, so we celebrate the return of the sun, and the beginning of the new.<br />
<br />
My family doesn't have Santa Claus come and visit. instead, Chris Kringle, who is much like the early 1900's version of 'santa' comes, wearing his long green robes, and brings one gift to each good child, plus stockings for everyone. (he doesn't come visibly, of course. i'd be willing to help costume someone if i knew anyone willing to play the part some time!)<br />
<br />
we have a yule tree. it has a lot of nature based ornaments, and pentacles. we also decorate a tree outside, and include decorations that serve the dual purpose of being food for the local birds...<br />
<br />
as for everything else.. well, we tend to be pretty low-key pagans. we sometimes, but not always, do religious-specific celebrating. it is, however, a bit on the back-burner lately with our children needing most of our time, energy, and attention.<br />
<br />
we also sing carols, and you'd recognize some of them, and give gifts to each other, our family, and friends, however, we work towards making gifts rather than buying them, and don't try to focus on the amount spent, as long as the gift is thoughtful and well meant.<br />
<br />
(to note, this exact conversation is just a paraphrasing of a number of conversations i've had with friends over the years) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TPm2t-BKx7I/AAAAAAAAAVk/9F_preynEWc/s1600/yule+tree+2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TPm2t-BKx7I/AAAAAAAAAVk/9F_preynEWc/s320/yule+tree+2009.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our yule tree 2009</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<h2 align="center" style="color: #444444;"><b><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">The Yule Song</span></b></h2><h2 align="center"><b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="color: #444444;">(Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) : Lyrics -my version!</span></span></b></h2><h2 align="center"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small;">Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,<br />
Jack Frost nipping on your nose,<br />
Yuletide carols being sung by a choir,<br />
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.<br />
<br />
Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe,<br />
Help to make the season bright.<br />
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow,<br />
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.<br />
<br />
They know that Kringle's on his way;<br />
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh.<br />
And every mother's child is going to spy,<br />
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.<br />
<br />
And so I'm offering this simple phrase,<br />
To kids from one to ninety-two,<br />
Although its been said many times, many ways,<br />
Merry Yule to you.</span></b></span></h2><h2 align="center"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b><span style="color: #336699; font-size: small;"> </span></b></span></h2><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eYgTtJLxaHs?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eYgTtJLxaHs?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
hope everyone has their gift making and buying nearly done! mine is about 90% !!!simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-16410151823093169852010-12-03T09:39:00.000-06:002010-12-03T09:39:20.830-06:00more yuletide randomness<a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1197246/12_great_decorations_for_a_pagan_yule.html?cat=34">yule decoration ideas</a> some of these you may have seen before, but there are lots of great tree decorating ideas.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4575840_pagan-nativity-scene-yule.html">yule-centric nativity varient</a> this version includes the different faces of the Goddess, the reborn sun-god, and lots of nature. sounds pretty cute!<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TeNJmOsBS94?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TeNJmOsBS94?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
and here's the _full_ lyrics... including one verse i hadn't heard before!<br />
<br />
<div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jingle bells:</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. Dashing through the snow, </span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">on a one horse open sleigh,</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">o'er the hills we go,</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">laughing all the way!</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bells on bobtail ring,</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">making spirits bright,</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">what fun it is to ride and sing</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">a sleighing song tonight! Oh...</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">chorus:</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">oh what fun it is to ride on a one horse open sleigh!</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">oh what fun it is to ride on a one horse open sleigh!</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">2. A day or two ago,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">I thought I'd take a ride,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">And soon Miss Fanny Bright</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Was seated by my side;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">The horse was lean and lank;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Misfortune seemed his lot;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">He got into a drifted bank,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">And we, we got upsot.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">3. A day or two ago,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">the story I must tell</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">I went out on the snow</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">And on my back I fell;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">A gent was riding by</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">In a one-horse open sleigh,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">He laughed as there I sprawling lie,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">But quickly drove away.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">4. Now the ground is white</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Go it while you're young,</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Take the girls tonight </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">And sing this sleighing song;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Just get a bob-tailed bay</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">two-forty as his speed</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif";">Hitch him to an open sleigh</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">And crack! you'll take the lead.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin-right: -38.3pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: -38.3pt;"><span style="font-family: "TimesNewRomanPSMT","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">hope everyone enjoys singing along. i know my kids did! :)</span></span></span></div>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-53851920993202031282010-12-02T11:27:00.000-06:002010-12-02T11:27:30.416-06:00Yuletide music and thursday randomness<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UFBbLHZD7qA?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UFBbLHZD7qA?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
---<br />
i've discovered that i can ply yarn with one hand (and a foot), while drinking coffee with the other.<br />
<br />
my Yule tree is up, and lovely, but needs more pagan ornaments. will have to work on that<br />
<br />
darling daughter + homeschooling is seeming like a fight right now, so we're backing off to 'easy stuff' for a bit, see how that goes...<br />
<br />
my tomato plants suck water like nobody's business. i'm having to water them heavily every two days<br />
<br />
i love hot chocolate, but wish that it didn't have any calories ;)<br />
<br />
ravelry truly is addicting. really. trust me.<br />
<br />
i've tried spinning my first 'alternative fibre'.... and am currently plying a unique skein of dogswool+sheepswool :) fun times.<br />
<br />
hope everyone is having a wonderful and chilly time.<br />
<br />
see y'all soon. expect more random.... 'cause random's what i got!simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-42506900001759807132010-11-19T09:25:00.000-06:002010-11-19T09:25:13.977-06:00let it snow while i watch my window garden grow!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlFc-CWTI/AAAAAAAAAVI/vesDQ13L-Wk/s1600/PB160993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlFc-CWTI/AAAAAAAAAVI/vesDQ13L-Wk/s400/PB160993.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the weather. cold. blowy, and snowy. it's actually much whiter out now than when i took the picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlUIBqKoI/AAAAAAAAAVM/7OG266QuBaI/s1600/PB160995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlUIBqKoI/AAAAAAAAAVM/7OG266QuBaI/s200/PB160995.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my tiny pot of ground cherries</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlgXJGfkI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/1GSiCjmxfLM/s1600/PB160996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlgXJGfkI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/1GSiCjmxfLM/s200/PB160996.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ripening rainbow peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlscjJF5I/AAAAAAAAAVU/7Sk-j0uOTwU/s1600/PB160997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVlscjJF5I/AAAAAAAAAVU/7Sk-j0uOTwU/s200/PB160997.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">carrot tops. i'm experimenting to see if i can get them to produce seed without a full root.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVl2lX1lDI/AAAAAAAAAVY/FBvqiTDUTSI/s1600/PB160999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVl2lX1lDI/AAAAAAAAAVY/FBvqiTDUTSI/s200/PB160999.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">green tomatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVl-53sM_I/AAAAAAAAAVc/Ltzz8Ct_2iM/s1600/PB161000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVl-53sM_I/AAAAAAAAAVc/Ltzz8Ct_2iM/s200/PB161000.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chili peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>not pictured: spider plants, baby pines, avacado plants, lavender, geraniums.<br />
<br />
it may only be a little, food-wise, but my indoor garden really keeps me from going nuts in the white months (and, since those total up to about *counts on fingers*... 6, sometimes 7 months.... that's a lot of preserved sanity!)simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-4884506785992986672010-11-18T10:36:00.000-06:002010-11-18T10:36:37.255-06:00Wool stuffOkay... lots of things happening on the fibre front in my life:<br />
<br />
Mom and i recieved a drum carder from another family member. it's pretty old-school, and for medium/coarse carding... but SO SO much a step up from hand carding everything!<br />
<br />
We also took advantage of a local arts studio selling off unused items, and picked up a picker (that'd be a super-scary tool that picks open the wool and lets the bits of vegetable matter fall out) and..... (drum roll..)<br />
<br />
my new toy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVO7eDHJUI/AAAAAAAAAUw/XPMSl0d8e2g/s1600/PB171003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVO7eDHJUI/AAAAAAAAAUw/XPMSl0d8e2g/s400/PB171003.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spinning wheel!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVPL5sxB0I/AAAAAAAAAU0/OhclsleYheQ/s1600/PB171002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVPL5sxB0I/AAAAAAAAAU0/OhclsleYheQ/s320/PB171002.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">originally made in Winnipeg!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
okay. it's not new... in fact, it's 20-30 years old. and it was in need of a lot of love when we picked it up. we'd been told it had been in storage for at least ten years. It showed.<br />
<br />
after lots of tightening of bolts and screws, about a half cup of lemon oil, some machine oil, and a new belt, it's now running pretty nicely...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVRnNCdeBI/AAAAAAAAAU4/Ipo3VuSNQFE/s1600/PB171005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVRnNCdeBI/AAAAAAAAAU4/Ipo3VuSNQFE/s400/PB171005.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a very full plied bobbin... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>on other fibre notes:<br />
<br />
been crocheting up a storm. some of my recent FO's: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVS4i3NNiI/AAAAAAAAAU8/vdQRQLceSyg/s1600/PB020959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVS4i3NNiI/AAAAAAAAAU8/vdQRQLceSyg/s320/PB020959.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my dapper little gentleman</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVTKzSe22I/AAAAAAAAAVA/KiQ6Kf3tCvY/s1600/PB060970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVTKzSe22I/AAAAAAAAAVA/KiQ6Kf3tCvY/s320/PB060970.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stocking from a KAL/CAL</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVTa5IAMwI/AAAAAAAAAVE/Ozt5awUHzqA/s1600/PB140985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TOVTa5IAMwI/AAAAAAAAAVE/Ozt5awUHzqA/s320/PB140985.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">warm neckwarmer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>other odds and ends:<br />
suint fermentation wool process similar to detergent washed wool.... still has a spicy/earthy smell when dry... and probably smells a bit like sheep when wet. overall, seems like a decent way to process. next year, i plan on having a number of fermentation tubs set up to process the wool (um... about 6 fleeces) sitting in my porch. then, i get to spin it all! (whee!)simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-77439802037179945282010-10-31T10:51:00.000-05:002010-10-31T10:51:47.034-05:00an update and some recent FO'sfyi, FO is finished object.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2CcKnNrOI/AAAAAAAAAUs/dq9GtIBEeXU/s320/PA020898.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished play rug! (finally!!!) it's to be part of the yuletide gifts (so don't tell them!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2CcKnNrOI/AAAAAAAAAUs/dq9GtIBEeXU/s1600/PA020898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2Ahm0iQfI/AAAAAAAAAUg/8sT3tbJp-qM/s320/P9190860.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">warm and fuzzy warm ankle socks for reenactment</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2Ahm0iQfI/AAAAAAAAAUg/8sT3tbJp-qM/s1600/P9190860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2AsFKV2SI/AAAAAAAAAUk/J-8qwbN7vrg/s320/PA110926.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">made this rag rug in about <b>4 hours!!! go crochet!</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2AsFKV2SI/AAAAAAAAAUk/J-8qwbN7vrg/s1600/PA110926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2AzqRXv-I/AAAAAAAAAUo/YBl6v-UCFs8/s320/PA270943.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">happy Hallowe'en!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TM2AzqRXv-I/AAAAAAAAAUo/YBl6v-UCFs8/s1600/PA270943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>We're not doing anything particularly pagan this Samhain... pretty much just taking the kids out for candy, then crashing at home.... it's just been to busy for me to expend energy on planning a feast or something like that. perhaps next year, the kids will be big enough to do something together.<br />
hope everyone is having a good (if rather chilly and snowy) Fall!simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-65864564465411370732010-10-07T16:43:00.000-05:002010-10-07T16:43:42.007-05:00time for something new - crochet stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4u-sDlVCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M219IifdCDw/s1600/PA070904.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
Well, I finally gave in recently and joined Ravelry. A fibre artist's hotspot, that's for sure. Addiction too, possibly.<br />
<br />
While i was perusing their patterns for neck warmers and cowls, i decided that none of them were 'perfect', so I made up my own.<br />
<br />
the following is my own pattern. if you make this for gifting or sale, please include a tag with the original pattern web address. thank you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4t-KTIFGI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/wZSP2x8GXls/s400/PA070915.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">under a fall coat</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4t-KTIFGI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/wZSP2x8GXls/s1600/PA070915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Buttoned Up Neckwarmer</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> This pattern makes a close-fitted wool collar. It can be easily adjusted to fit. Original pattern makes a neckwarmer for a slender neck. I made this with a random skein of light wool yarn (kamb garn by Gefjun, apparently a defunct icelandic company that closed in the eighties, if i remember correctly) it was 100gr, and i used less than half of it, so i expect a 50 gram ball to be sufficient for most folks.<br />
<br />
<b>Materials needed</b>: <br />
1 ball 3ply or lace weight yarn, wool or natural fibres blend (mine was 17wpi, but 3 ply)<br />
2.5 mm hook<br />
wool needle<br />
3-5 buttons of your choice<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4u-sDlVCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M219IifdCDw/s400/PA070904.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the neckwarmer, all buttoned up</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b>stitches used and abbreviations:</b><br />
chain (ch)<br />
single crochet<b> </b>(sc)<br />
half-double crochet (hdc)<br />
double crochet (dc)<br />
Treble-crochet (tc)<br />
<br />
a note on gauge: initial 2 rows of pattern will be approx. 4 1/2 inches across. depth is somewhat unimportant, due to stretchiness of pattern.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4u-sDlVCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M219IifdCDw/s1600/PA070904.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><b>the Pattern:</b><br />
<br />
<u>please note</u>: work in back loops of the stitch for all repetitions of rows one and two! (this creates the ribbing effect)<br />
<br />
chain 31.<br />
<br />
row 1) ch 2*, hdc in next 20 stitches, dc in next 8 stitches, tc in next 3 stitches. turn.<br />
* this will make 33 chain altogether. First hdc should be in the 3rd ch from the hook.<br />
<br />
row 2) ch 4, tc in next 2 stitches, dc in next 8 stitches, hdc in next 21 stitches. turn.<br />
<br />
Repeat these two rows until your pattern is 61 rows total, or to fit. (61 rows will fit a slender neck)<br />
<br />
Next row) ch 4, tc across. turn. (this creates the 'button hole' row, allowing for flexible buttoning.)<br />
next row) ch 1, then <b>in both loops</b>, sc across. turn.<br />
next row) repeat sc row as above. finish off.<br />
<br />
<u>button flap</u>:<br />
This is worked in sc and <b>in both loops </b>to create a firm surface for the buttons to attach to.<br />
<br />
on the initial chain, attach your yarn at the top (narrow end)<br />
first row: ch 1, sc in next 23 stitches. turn<br />
next row: repeat until flap measures about 1", or 7 rows total. fasten off.<br />
<br />
<u>finishing</u>:<br />
with yarn and needle, stitch the bottom 7 stitches of the neck warmer together. tack the button flap down on the inside of the neck warmer.<br />
place then attach buttons.<br />
weave in all ends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4rUyu-6II/AAAAAAAAAUE/cwi-OnfNlNw/s320/PA070906.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">open for putting on/removal. bottom is stitched together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4rUyu-6II/AAAAAAAAAUE/cwi-OnfNlNw/s1600/PA070906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4rkYaHHkI/AAAAAAAAAUI/JoFMW7LlRP0/s320/PA070911.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">laying flat</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4rkYaHHkI/AAAAAAAAAUI/JoFMW7LlRP0/s1600/PA070911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
if you have any concerns or questions with the pattern, feel free to contact me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_RcbdhoPfdkc/TK4u-sDlVCI/AAAAAAAAAUU/M219IifdCDw/s1600/PA070904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968522150239656055.post-70230313035716752262010-09-21T20:52:00.000-05:002010-09-21T20:52:26.379-05:00a quick updateit's a bit hectic around here right now, but i thought i'd let you all know how it's going:<br />
<br />
i'm preparing for my daughter's birthday this weekend... she's having fairy themed party, with a pinata. i hope she'll have a great time! i still need to make the cake and wrap the gifts, but i'm otherwise ready for it, which is fortunate... as i've got lots of other stuff going on!<br />
<br />
I'm going to my first 'knit nite' with some other fibre artists tomorrow ... should be interesting...<br />
i'm still finishing preserving... got a few things left on my plate: rosehip syrup, frozen carrots, and something with beets... my larder is looking plesantly full...<br />
<br />
i'm working on processing a bit of wool so that i'll have a surplus of batts ready to spin over the winter... even better if i can gt a spinning wheel (it's on my wish list!)<br />
<br />
um... .. i know there's more... i just can't think of it right now. expect another post with some pics soon....simply_complicatedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03723761545455581565noreply@blogger.com4