Hunka Hunka Burnin' Yarn

All decked out in knit....

2009-04-19T20:42:00.013-07:00

Presley takes up all (most) of our time. And we love every minute of it. especially when's she's all decked out in knit...

here she be... takin in some sun, sporting a crochet poncho her great grannie done made. thanks to Abuelita Dinora for this most amazing knit that we just slip over her head "peek-a -boo" style and our girl has no complaints! and the pink scarf via Tata is a sweet keyhole number that takes just seconds to twist on. wooo...

this little green hat, knit by me, mama, has garnished the title "subway" since it's mostly worn while travelling on the TTC because of it's lacey breathability. the yarn comes via the Stitch n' Pitch. thanks to many donations from fellow knitters. today the hat, tomorrow.... a sweater!? Presley's also donning a purple keyhole scarf (knit by moi) and a groovy little top down sweater knit by one of my grannie's friend's (the love of knit goes far and wide). And soon to be revealed (must weave in ends & knit i-cord).....

...los pantalones (aka pants). these funky bell bottoms come courtesy of (raverly) and a friendly knitter who brought a stash o' stuff to a knit night that she wanted to get rid of. I could not resist the Sidar Denim Tweed.

And here's a video of Presley enjoying her first swing in a park in the 'Shwa. Please note her (first pair of) knit pants. A wonderfully warm number knit up in Briggs & Little. Yarn purchased while pregnant yet oblivious to the fact at the time. The Lord works in mysterious ways.

Modelling Michelle's Miittens

2008-12-10T20:39:00.005-08:00

Cristina emailed me today saying "I didn’t know that Presley was a model in Knitty!" Neither did I! What a wonderful surprise. I haven't had much time to surf & blog lately but we always have time for photos with Michelle.

The miitens are so dang sweet Presley couldn't resist giving them a nibble. The pattern is pure genius. Wii to go Michelle! Can't wait to see what fresh madness you come up with next. (And I hope that you're having a most splendid Mexican honeymoon! Dos margaritas por favor!)

Bigga Baby Toque

2008-11-21T22:37:00.012-08:00

When it started snowing on Wednesday I knew that it was time for a big baby toque for my little girl Presley. But what yarn to use? A quick search through my stash and one wee hour later the Bigga Baby Toque was born. Although I was quite pleased with the mini project it still needed a few finishing touches. So on Thursday, with Michelle's company, we headed off to The Purple Purl for some snacks, lattes, chit chat and a 10mm crochet needle. After the border was hooked, I topped it off with a big floppy pompom. And here she be, in all her glory...

What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. We fondled yarn, we munched on the most awesomest smores and sipped on the frothiest lattes and we were lucky enough to make some new friends (and hug some old ones too!). We don't get to the 'Purl often enough, but when we do there always seem to be babies about. Here are a few fellas that Presley befriended:

Shay, Jeremy and Presley

The party got a wee bit wild as you will see from this little video. Have a listen to Presley's squeal before she falls back and goes boom. Please note that no babies were injured in the making of this video...

I'm still knitting, i swear

2008-10-30T06:40:00.000-07:00

I am. I really am still knitting. whenever I can find a spare moment (rare these days). I may not have much time to write, but I am picking up the needles and fondling as much yarn as possible. here's proof...

Presley rocks her knits

Jacquie gave me some malabrigo a little while back so I made Presley a big ol' slouchie hat. She needs to grow into it a bit and it ain't the best baby yarn, but it's just so dang soft I couldn't resist! The sweater was made back when Presley was still in utero. She's already worn it a gazillion times.

and this is finally done...

The Ameri-Clap

Yes, the Ameri-Clap. Talk about softness! It's Pima Cotton from Americo. Again, not a great baby yarn, since chances are baby will drool or puke on it, but I love it all the same. I went with a long scarf this time instead of the shawl version. I just can't get enough of this pattern. I have some yarn left over, perhaps a baby-clap for my little girl is in order?

More knits to come, I swear!

Roses

2008-08-17T20:12:00.004-07:00

Believe it or not, it's not just googoo and gaga in babyland over here. Although there's a lot of drool these days and the poop, well...let's not go there. Let's go here....

Roses for Michelle

Thank the sweet Lord for small projects and Michelle for having the most awesomest idea to knit her wedding bouquet. Glad I could help! The patterns can be found in Nicky Epstein's Knitted Flowers. Can't wait to see them all bouquet-like!

Sweet Baby Knits

2008-08-06T21:42:00.004-07:00

Not much time to blog (or knit) these days! But lotsa time for pix. Here are just a few....

Thanks to Michelle for the pattern on this sweet little baby cap. I started this one during my pregnancy, knit it through labour and finished it last week. Long time to knit for such a little cap. But ain't it cute!? I love the yarn too - Crystal Palace, Maizy in Springtime.

Sweet Little Baby Cap

And of course, the socks to match.....

Cozy Little Baby Feet

Our doula, Kim, is not only one helluva dame, she's also a stitcher! She came by to visit and presented our lovely Presley with this gorgeous crochet blanket.

Beautiful Blanket

I hope to be back soon with some baby tales and completed knits. But for now...happy stitchin bitches! xo

Our Baby Girl

2008-06-14T21:47:00.001-07:00

She's here! Read all about it at Oh Baby!

Surprise Surprise Baby Jacket

2008-05-02T10:56:00.012-07:00

I've perused through my pix that were taken at the baby shower that Jacquie threw for us and well, they're all of me! How boring is that! My brain has been in a preggo haze and I just haven't been able to take any pix of the gorgeous knitted pieces that we were showered on us. So I'm "borrowing" these from Michelle....

Baby Love

I've watched the progress of this stunning piece on Michelle's blog. It was so wonderful to find out that it was for me! Well, for "us". Wouldn't it be grand if we could put some sort of spell on this beautiful jacket so that it could grow with baby and then eventually when she's a teen and only sporting black I could take it for my very own. It is so incredibly soft and the buttons are absolutely gorgeous. Now if only we could stop the cats from eye-ing it. I swear they're taking bets on who can wear it next!

Kitty Porn (aka Guinness, Michelle's cat)

The Shower - Part One, Blanket of Love

2008-04-23T19:20:00.010-07:00

Jacquie threw the most awesomest baby shower for me this weekend. I was so completely overwhelmed by all of the love and attention, I'm still reeling and walking around in a daze. Well, the daze part could be the preggo-itis, but seriously - I was completely bowled over. I would love to go on and on forever with pix & tales of all of the sweet treats that the knitters showered me with that day, but for now let me start by sharing this...

The Blanket of Love

photo by Jacquie

The hostess with the mostest corralled the knitters to each knit/crochet a square for the "community" blanket that will soon swaddle our brand new bundle of joy. (If you click on the photo it should take you to the flickr page were the knitters have so kindly begun to fill in their names by the square that they knit.) This is truly a most amazing gift. It blows my mind to think of all of the hands, and time and thought and love that went into every single stitch in each special square. I want to hang it on the wall and sit back and stare at it. And then I wanna take it down and feel it and smell it and wrap it around myself. An incredible heirloom to be treasured eternally. Thank you, thank you, thank you ALL so very very much. xoxo

Photo Class

2008-04-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

I had the awesome opportunity of taking a photo class for bloggers and ravelers at In the Loop Café last Sunday. Taught by super-blogger-photo-masters, Jacquie & Michelle, the class was a blast, oh, and super informative. Not only did I score a great kit consisting of white bristol board, a heavy duty light bulb and a groovy little beanbag Michelle-made tripod, I walked away feeling like I had a brand new camera. Or at least now, my camera and I speak the same language. Or maybe now I just speak "camera" period. Anywhozit, enuf with the bla bla and on with the shots....

Besides getting to know the basics and key funtcions of our point n shoots, we also learned about incorporating composition, staging and point of view...

For Baby Jake

I think this would be a good example. These are Jake's baby booties and umbilical cord hat that are yet to be gifted. This was shot in flash-less natural light using a two second delay. I love the reflection coming off of the dark table and the cockiness of the booties.

and then The Rule of Thirds. i suck at anything math -- numbers, fractions, percentages, you name it...but i think I that I caught the gist of the rule with this shot...

Hot Hot Photo Babes (aka Jacquie & Aleta)

The ladies helped me discover the "grid" button on the camera and all of a sudden I saw the light. We could also call this shot the Rule of Hotness.

I've always dreamed of great close up shots that really capture the fibers in my projects. The macro feature is one of the reasons that the hubs santa'd me this new camera for xmas in the first place.

Noro Silk Garden Lite Macro-fied

Can you see the seed stitch cozy-ing up to the stockinette leaning up against the garter? I "heart" me some macro and the fact that the symbol is a tulip makes it that much more fun to use. ha!

But not all was gorgeous photos, hot babes and hella-good laffs. No, things eventually got all loco and wonky-fied....

Michelle Wears Bacon

Now don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with wearing felted bacon for eyebrows, but if you're going to capture the moment you should at least make sure that the exposure is set up correctly. Thanks photo gurus for getting into my menus and manual and setting me straight.

And one of my favourite photos of the day....

Hunka Hunka Felted Bacon

Being a huge lover of bacon and all things fried, The King would have been proud! Thank you, thank you very much for learnin' me so good ladies!

Luke Sports His Knits

2008-03-17T08:03:00.004-07:00

It fit!! Luke's little sweater and hat set fit him perfectly! I must admit that I went through a touch of Knitter's Paranoia, worried that the outfit would be too small. Luke weighed in at 7lbs. 14 ozs. when he was born and he was 21 inches long! And well you know how quickly these little ones grow, so my paranoia was quite valid, I'd say. But here's the proof....

2 minutes for looking so good

Isn't he just the cutest thing ever!!? And not just because he's sporting hand-made knits either! His mama, Fiona, is one heckuva gorgeous dame and his papa, Victor - one handsome devil! Thanks for the pix my beautiful friends!

Father and Son

For Baby Luke

2008-02-25T17:11:00.002-08:00

Luke William Oland was born on Friday December 14, 2008. Luke's dad, Victor, is a pal of mine from university and a huge Toronto Maple Leafs' fan. There was only one way to send my congrats ....

It all started with these little socks that the Hubs found, they inspired the yarn which knit up this sweater and hat set. Isn't that always the way? The sweater is a simple top down raglan number and the matching toque is also known as The Umbilical Cord Hat.

Not bad for my first baby sweater, I say. And thanks to Zoë (and her mama) for letting me borrow her hat so that I could measure it and stumble through my own version of the pattern. Go Leafs Go!!

Go Ask Alice

2008-02-25T10:58:00.003-08:00

Which Alice in Wonderland character are YOU?
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Alice

You are kind-hearted and curious and give yourself very good advice, but seldom follow it, which leads you into trouble. You always try to be courteous and polite, but you become cross when people speak in nonsense to you and scold them sharply.
I was surprised by the result. I really thought I'd end up getting the Cheshire Cat. What do I know! Thanks Yvette.

Happy Balentimes!

2008-02-14T13:03:00.004-08:00

Wishing you all a hunka hunka burnin love!

It was on Valentine's Day 1954 that Colonel Parker first saw Elvis perform live on stage. Parker was immediately impressed by the reaction of the female audience in the crowd to Elvis wild stage act... and the rest, as they say, is history...
On this day in 1964 Valentine’s Day Elvis sent the Beatles a congratulatory telegram to their New York hotel suite for their up and coming tour of the USA.

Before Elvis, there was nothing.
- John Lennon

Hat Happy

2008-02-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

I've been really big on hats lately. I don't know whether it's the cold weather that makes me wanna keep everyone's heads cozy or if it's the awful carpal tunnel that the pregnancy has brought on -- I only wanna knit quickies!

Happy Hats*

From top to bottom:

Mami in Malabrigo - the pattern: Stella's Hat. Thanks to Michelle for showing me hers.

Kassidy in Kochoran - the pattern: off the top of my head (pun intended). I'm starting to dig cabling so I thought I'd give it a go, but I was running out of time for Kass' 13th b-day deadline so I had to bring it to a show that the hubs was having at Lee's Palace and ended up finishing it in stockinette. It's big and floppy enough to stuff in all of her curls and pompom gives it that little extra je ne sais quoi.

Me in Iro - the pattern, similar to Kass' hat except that I didn't have the rock n roll lighting to contend with so the cables go all the way to the top.

*(thanks to the hubs for this wonderful photoshop display)

Malabrigo Maternity

2008-01-30T21:11:00.001-08:00

It's been finished for a while now, but I could never get around to taking a picture of my Maternity Cardi. Thanks to my mom, the photog, here it is in all of its Black Forest Malabrigo glory....

Show me your bump

I adore this yarn. It's so soft, it comes in awesome colours and well, it's from Uruguay - need I say more!? Last year The Beadery was getting rid of all of their yarn with an amazing sale. I stashed as much of it as I could. Although the skeins were the same colour, the dye lot was slightly off. Thanks to Lisa's bright idea -- rotate the skeins to keep the colour consistant, it all worked out. A bit of a pain in the culo, but well worth it in the end.

mama's got malabrigo back

And thanks to Cosmicpluto for her inspirational top down cardigan pattern (no sewing!). I followed it up until slip stitches for sleeves on a holder. Knowing that I was preggers when I started it I decided to increase (instead of decrease) down the body to give it more of an A-line drape. I love it so much, I could sleep in it! Or at least siesta!

Go Ahead, Make My Day!

2008-01-23T13:20:00.001-08:00

Thanks Michelle!!

The rules tell me to pass it on: “Give the award to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel happy about blogland. Let them know by posting a comment on their blog so they can pass it on. Beware you may get the award several times.”

Not a problem, except for the fact that I read most of the same blogs as Michelle. But as the rules state: you may get the award several times, so here it goes...

10 bloggers out there that regularly make my day!

A Long Yarn
And She Knits Too
I'm Not Bad I Just Knit That Way
Kneurotic Knitter
Kokopalooza
MJM Knitting
My Sensitive Girl Hole
My So Called Anonymous Life
Not An Artist
Purl This

Creative Blocking

2008-01-21T14:40:00.000-08:00

As some of you already know, I've been knitting up Le Slouches like they're going out of style! I love the pattern and the fact that they seem to compliment faces of all shapes and sizes and they don't squish down the hair-do too much. (In a pinch, they can also be called upon to hide a hair-don't). I only have one little problem and that's the "nipple-ing" that happens on the decreases. I spoke with some fellow knitters and this was my favourite suggestion....

Before

Water balloon blocking! Thanks Michelle! Not only did it work, it was quite fun. The weight of the water ironed out the nipples and the shape of the balloon gave Le Slouch and nice drape. The hubs really enjoyed being my assistant on this one. What is it with fellas and water balloons anyway? Once the blocking was done he put the balloons in the tub to see what the cats would do with them. The cats, being brilliant little felines, managed to navigate around the water traps and weren't bothered by them in the least. The hub's mischievous plans - thwarted once again!

After

And here they are in all of their glory. Fionnuala in Charcoal and Kelley in Oxford Grey. Stunning muchachas they are! And I'm off to toss some water bombs from the 28th floor! Just kidding, y'all!

Easy Way Out

2008-01-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

Easy Way Out, an uproarious, trail-blazing Toronto based band is stoked to present you with their first, full length album titled: Steal the Show.

Their CD release blowout will take place on Thursday January 17th at Clinton’s Tavern in Toronto. Steal the Show contains 10 high energy tracks, each offering a distinctive accent. Listen to some awesome tunes here. I realize this has no "knit" content, but I just happen to be one of their number one fans. I must plug this show! And you must come on out if you can. Only 5 bucks to get in and then only 5 bucks for the brand-spankin new CD. What a deal! oh and the lead singer is super hot - so I married him. Rock on, dudes!

Hat Head

2008-01-08T21:42:00.001-08:00

2007 turned out to be the year of The Hat in my knitting world. I had so many compliments and requests for Le Slouch, it seemed like a great Christmas gift idea for some of the gals in my family.

Le Collection

From the top -- Heidi in Earthy Brown Seed Stitch; Vicki in Charcoal Double Seed Stitch; Tracey in Twisted Taupe YO and Lori in Frosted Rose YO. (All in Paton's Shetland Chunky). I've made so many of these dang Slouches I needed a break from the pattern and so I gave the yarn-over a go. After the increases, I *YO, K* for one round and *K* for the next round and I got this great hole-y look. I think they turned out super sweet. The last two on the bottom? The hubs chose this orange yarn (Vanna's Choice! who knew?!). He wanted it super simple and not too bulky. The pattern is just a K3, P1 rib. And the last one is my first "real" cable project. Stitched up on Christmas day from the Stitch n Bitch Nation's basic cable toque pattern. It's good to know that some of my peeps will have nice cozy hat heads this winter!

King Bunny

2008-01-08T21:29:00.001-08:00

The King of Rock and Roll would have been 73 today. In honour of Elvis' b-day I bring you this...

Elvis and Americo

Yes, our tree is still up. But shouldn't everyday be like Christmas? We have a few Elvis ornaments. People just seem to give them to us. And we love each and every one of them (the peeps AND the ornaments). Jumpsuit Elvis is one of the sparkliest and next to him is Americo the Bunny. Americo was knit, felted and stuffed by Cristina who knits and designs over at one of my favourite fibre filled haunts, Americo. "A Christmas gift for baby", she said. Thank you, Cristina, thank you very much. We love it!

Santa Came Early and it was Zen!

2007-12-14T13:29:00.001-08:00

What a wonderful way to be woken up. No, not with the weekend special - Egg McJay in bed (although that is one of my faves). And not with Frosty the Snowman playing on the clock radio (another fave). But with the mail man banging down the door! I wasn't expecting anyone and I never open the door unless someone's delivering food. I look through the peep hole and there he is. Hello mail man, whuddup? Package, special delivery?! For moi?! I squish it. It feels like yarn!! yarn!? I've never received yarn (or anything else for that matter) this early in the morning. Could I be dreaming? Who could it be from? What could it be? Well, let me show you...From the Zen Yarn Garden.....

The Abbey Cabled Hoodie Pattern

The Superwash Merino & Silk

in Grape Jelly

The Adorable Little Notions Bag

Isn't it just gorgeous!? The pattern is a freakin masterpiece. The Grape Jelly Yarn is delicioso! I can't stop feeling it up! And the notions bag is waiting to be filled with all of my little knitty knick-knacks! (And Jessie at Messie Craftie has a lot more for your pleasure!) I love it. I love it all!!! A big huge hug and thanks to Santa Lisa. You really shouldn't have! But I'm oh so glad that you did! What a wonderful wake-up call!

Seven More

2007-12-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

Hey there Docta Steph! You tagged me with this one back in May, but hey, I can't resist. There must be 7 more random/weird things about moi, no? I'm up for the challenge....

THE RULES:
1. Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 random and/or weird things about yourself.
3. Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
4. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. My sister and I share a made-up language. For the most part the vocabulary is in English (with a bit of Spanish thrown in) but it's the way that we pronounce words or conjugate verbs that make it...well...original! Rightsies sista-sista?

2. My husband is 9 years younger than me. Hubba hubba!

3. We haven't been able to afford Graceland yet, so for the past few years we've spent our summer holidays at the Elvis Festival in Collingwood. Awesome!

4. When you want to buy something you obsess about it and eventually buy it, which makes it
really difficult for anyone to buy you a present you'll actually like. (This one came from the Hubs. He's frustrated that I keep ruining any Xmas present ideas he may have. sorry!)

5. I hate microwave ovens. We don't even have one in our apartment. They're just far too scary. "Nuking" your food (or anything else for that matter) can't be good, can it?

6. I'm addicted to reality shows - America/Canada's Next Top Model, American/Canadian Idol, Dancing With the Stars, Project Runway, Miami Ink, LA Ink, Jon & Kate Plus Eight, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Till Debt Do Us Part, Gene Simmons Family Jewels, What Not to Wear, etc, etc.

7. I have a 16 week old symbiotic organism growing in my belly.

And I'm going to tag...... Yvette, Joyce, Vik, Lisa Lung Doc, Lisa, Soosan (I hope this will force her to finally post something!), Peggy (ditto), Sophie (ditto ditto!)

Le Slouch

2007-11-26T20:29:00.001-08:00

This has got to be one of my favourite patterns. It's quick, it's simple, it's FREE and it doesn't squish your 'fro down and give you hat head! I've made a bunch of these for various friends and family. And now, here's one for me....

Serious Slouch

I busted-ed into my stash for this one. Just some plain ol' Patons Shetland Chunky in Everglades Variegated. It's just so soft against my delicate forehead. I'm really into green and brown this year. I guess it's a nice change from the grape and purple that I'm usually drawn to.

Smiley Slouch

Besides the groovy factor, this pattern is great for the pocket book. You can pick up the pattern for FREE at Knit and Tonic (thanks!). Everybody Slouch!

p.s. and thanks to everyone for all of their well wishes on the baby thang!

Baby Purl

2007-11-20T09:52:00.001-08:00

I have been a bad knit blogger lately. But I have a very good reason. For the past 14 weeks or so I've been more than preoccupied with the bun that is growing in my oven. Yes, I am preg-a-licious and starting to feel fine fine fine. Weeks 6 to, approximately, 12 were a bit of a freakin' nightmare what with the constant nausea and utter exhaustion, but hey - c'est la vie! The hardest part was the lack of knitting and socializing. But I'm back, needles ready!

Thanks to the Hubs for his everlasting love and support and to the few gals who "knew" and never let the babe outta the bag. I really appreciate it!

I've been secretly blogging about the pregnancy over here and will continue to do so. So if you're interesting in the preggo-progress please visit me there. We'd be more than happy to see you!

Baby Purl - week 12

Dwarf!?!?

2007-11-05T10:16:00.001-08:00

who knew?!

Dang! And I was *this* close to being Nymph!

Thanks Yvette!

Which mythological creature is most like you? (with pics!)
created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Dwarf

You are happy underground, you are touch and resilient. You have a weakness for earth treasures though.

Dwarf

100%

Nymph

75%

Veela

75%

Unicorn

75%

Mermaid

63%

Angel

63%

Pixie

63%

Vampire

50%

Elf

50%

Selkie

50%

Phoenix

38%

Centaur

38%

Giant

25%

Minotaur

25%

Ghost

25%

Faery

25%

Dragon

25%

Were-wolf

13%

Demon

Gnome

Happy Halloween!!!

2007-10-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

My very own Living Dead Doll.....

For your collection?

Boo!!!

The Bangles

2007-10-16T13:59:00.001-07:00

Having tired myself of the arm warmer gifts, I thought I'd give myself a break and give these babies a go:

bam! bam! bam!

A little while back Lisa had passed along this link and now I'm hooked! The greenish looking one is done in seed stitch, the yarn is some scrumptious Uruguayan stuff that I scored at the Yarn Tasting a little while back but I can't find the band (or remember the name!). The one in the middle is Noro Silk Garden and the purplish one is Malabrigo, both done up in stockinette. This one here was a bugger:

Purple Heather

The bangle is made of wood and I wanted that to show through so I decided to give the crocus bud pattern a try. The pattern is lovely, but I had to pay attention. Ugh, I hate that! And the yarn is Patons Kroy. Simple, yet elegant, no?

Black Pearl

And this is just a gratuitous shot of my lady bug tattoo, Black Pearl, inspired one of my favourite yarns.

Another Happy Anniversary

2007-10-10T14:07:00.000-07:00

The Hubs and I celebrate our 3rd anniversary today. The Honeymoon continues...forever and ever....happily every after. And so I share with you one of my favorite pix from that very special day....

The Kiss

October 10, 2004

The Internals

2007-09-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely group of interns this summer and I just could not let them go back into the cruel, cold, ugly world of school without arm warmers!

go team!

They were such a great bunch. I don't know how I would have made it through the crazy summer without them.

Randy, Alexa, Caleigh, Melissa

We were lucky enough to be able to keep Randy and Melissa part time while they finish their studies at Ryerson. But Alexa had to head back to Dalhousie and Caleigh back to Western. I miss you babes!

Bootie Call

2007-09-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

ahhhhh...aren't they just the sweetest!? These were stitched up for Baby Jessica who resides in Quebec with her papa, Cousin Ian, and her mama, Isabelle. Mom was kind enough to put a package together from the Holz/Flores-Holz clan and sent it off to the ever expanding Légaré family.

The pattern came from Stitch 'n Bitch Nation, One-Hour Baby Booties. The yarn, well I lost the band and can't remember what it's called but it's super chunky and wonderfully stretchy. The little flower buttons I picked up at my neighbourhood Fabricland. There's a matching earflap hat that left with the booties but I wasn't able to get a shot of it. I should have, it looked hilarious blocking on a balloon! Perhaps Jessica will send us a photo, wearing her new duds. Welcome Jessica!

do not post

2007-09-11T12:59:00.002-07:00

Stitch n' Pitch

2007-09-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post these pix from the Stitch n' Pitch for the longest time! As you can see we had a gawd-awefully good time!

Katie O and Jodi-Lynn show us their balls.
Hey Jodi, are u flipping us the bird?!

Whoever smelt it dealt it! La la la...

Demonic Knitter and Clapo-Jillian keep it serious!

And in the not-so-cheap seats -- Cristina!

A big thanks to the organizers and to Joan for fixing us up and, to Michael for getting us all there. Go Jays!

YoYo Shoulder Shrug

2007-08-17T12:37:00.001-07:00

The Hubs and I had a wedding to attend last Saturday and I had nothing to wear! So on Tuesday I rummaged through my stash and thanks to Jenn's beautiful b-day gift, I was able to start knitting up a shawl to go with my dress. Many yarn overs later, aka Thursday, I realized that I didn't have enough yarn! Determined not to let the shortage disturb my project, I decided to stitch up the ends, creating arm holes, and turn it into a shrug...

Knockout YoYo

The yarn, Touch, is a sumptuous mix of kid mohair and merino. The colours, a beautiful blend of purples and blues. I love the way it makes the flowers in the dress just pop.

YoYo Got Back

This sweet little number kept me cozy in the air conditioning and warm at night strolling through the grounds of Trillium Trails. The wedding was splendid. The location was stunning. The party was a blast. The bride and groom were drop-dead gorgeous. And the Hubs and I ruled the dance floor. Wishing Nick and Meaghan all the best. Rock the love, live the laughter. Forever....

The Happy Couple

Swoon

2007-08-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the 9 to 5 grind can just suck the life right outta ya. But ain't that what holidays are all about? Getting away from it all... ? And where would you catch an Elvis obsessed knitter taking in some well deserved R&R?

Heaven, I'm in heaven...

with as many Elvis' as possible...Another holiday with the King. The Collingwood Elvis Festival. Their 13th annual, on the 30th anniversary of the King's passing. A perfect way to honour the King, surrounded by the world's top tribute artists. Some old, some new and some of our all-time faves!

If you're lookin' for Trouble....

That's Knitting Elvis at the Mountain View Revival stage (aka, one of the beer tents), magic looping her little heart out while catching David Lee perform a set....

Me, Me and David Lee

We just couldn't get enough of David Lee. Not only is he a world champion tribute artist (2004 Professional Concert Years, Collingwood, etc...), he's also an all-round amazing guy. All the way from Birmingham, Alabama, you couldn't ask for a more gracious and kind soul. He must be channeling Elvis somehow! During one of his shows, Ultimate Elvis, Mr. Lee lei-d me with one of his scarves. The ladies went wild. And I had to get it autographed!

swoon 1

The festival kicked off on Thursday with a Karaoke Pub Crawl and ended late late late Sunday evening with the Grand Finals at the arena and then a crazy Last Hurrah Wrap Up Party at The Olde Town Terrace. Saturday morning we hit the parade with me in my wig and many many kings on vintage cars. I made oh-so many friends...

The Neighbour & Cousin Ian

On the left is Brycen. Not only was he was staying across the hall from us at the Holiday Inn, he was also competing in the Youth Senior Category. And on the left, Knitting Elvis stops by the West Auckland, New Zealand, Matua Valley Wine tasting with cousin Ian. And then this fella stopped me in this little Shopper's Alley they got going there...

Fans

We couldn't deny us the opportunity of a pic. But it wasn't all autographs and compliments, we also caught some kick-arse shows from the Starshine Series at the Gayety Theatre. Two newish-to-us, artist that rocked our freakin socks off......

Boys Boys Boys

In pink, Washington's Ben Klein, who holds the 2005 title of Professional (Early Years) champ. And in jumpsuit, Vanleek Hill Ontarian, Pete Paquette, who took that crown in 2006. The boys have the moves and the vocals and the sincerity to pull it all off big time. Hey, it looks as though Pete might be putting his early years category aside and taking a chunka chunka outta the Concert Years. Go Pete!

And it wasn't all hip shakin fellas and shop shop shop either....We took some time to take in the sites....

yours to discover

mmm...Elvis shortbread...

With this being year three for the Hubs and I, we've become a little chummy with some blasts from the past. Ireland's David Stewart, 2006 Non-Pro Concert Years recipient, is a pleasure to watch, listen to and chat with. His vocals blow us away and his irish accent makes our eyes smile.

his biggest fans

This was the first year that we stayed until the very end. Which allowed us to attend The Last Hurrah bash . What a blast! Most of the tribute artists were dressed in their civilian clothes. It was like being a VIP at some freaky cast party. We danced, they karaoked and I rushed the stage when T-dot's hometown boy, Paul Ross (2006, Inspirational Elvis Gospel), took our request of - If I Can Dream...

spreading the love

The festival was a huge success. There musta bin a kazillion people there, not the mention the multi-national line of up of tribute artists. And even though this was the first year that I got a wee weirded out by the whole sub-culture of it all, we're still looking forward to next year. There's always so much more to see. Perhaps next year we'll pay more attention to the youth competition and be sure to catch the Inspirational Elvis set.

Long live the King

We capped the holiday off with a day at Wasaga Beach and a hit and run at one of the biggest yarn shops ever...

in Barrie!

swoon 2

The Hubs read Harry while I went kookoo for a good 45 minutes. I picked up some stoopid deals and sweet surprises for the folks back home!

oh and long live the Hubs. For his art. For his love and understanding.

swoon 2

for his awesome sense of humour and for the hunka hunka stash of yarn!

me and my king

Thank God!

2007-07-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

Papi's B-day and the Little Black Shrug

2007-07-13T09:21:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I posted an FO, and it's not for lack of knittin' -- that's fo sho! I just haven't had much "blogging time" these days. waa waa waaa...

So I bought a dress for my pa's 70th b-day surprise bash last week. The party was on Saturday, I bought the dress on Wednesday and by Thursday I had convinced myself that I could knit a shrug by party time to accompany the new party dress. uh...ya...right...

I've been spending a lot of time on this thing lately...

My new best friend, the Cybex Arc Trainer
aka The Flying Machine

and although I had never seen anyone knit on it, there weren't any signs telling me that I couldn't. So I did. And even though I tried my darndest to finish it for Saturday, the knitting godesses just weren't on my side and neither was time! Luckily I had a little shrug that I had made...it all the way to Winners to buy a while back and it went nicely with my new party dress. It would just have to do. and it did....

Me and my pops party it up

The surprise party for my pa was a huge success. We really got him good! Surrounded by many friends and lots of family, Oscar Flores Sr. was roasted in style! We had a wonderful evening -- laughing and dancing and munching well into the wee hours. Dustin was leaving for Calgary with the cadets very early the next morning. So we decided to keep him company until 4am!

Warrant Officer Bruce the Ham

Party-ied out, I took a knit and cardio break the following day and picked up the needles and yarn again on Monday. By Tuesday the shrug was finished. By Thursday the ends were weaved in and the sleeves were stitched up. By Friday I was in the park with my gal pal, KO, camera in hand, ready for my close-up...

Little Black Shrug

The pattern was extra simple. And the yarn, although super soft, is some cheap-cheap acrylic that I grabbed from my stash...

Shrug got back

Regardless, it's a groovy little knit and a great test run for many more to come! Oh, and the cardio-knitting is going fabulously. Socks on the Cybex are my fave so far, but I can also envision some garter stitch shawls cardio-style as well. And as long as I stretch first and don't forget to breathe, I should be fine!

Fabulous Floribundas

2007-07-11T07:25:00.001-07:00

Look what i came home to last night......

Sexy Rexy

These fabulous Floribunda Roses were all wrapped up and sitting pretty on my bed when i got home. I was feeling a bit down yesterday and had whined about it to the hubs. Knowing that I wouldn't be going straight home, he took the opportunity to drop off the flowers on his way to rehearsal, just to make me smile and to make me realize that life really ain't all that bad after all. I *heart* Jay!!!

If I Can Dream...

2007-06-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jacquie for learnin me how to post youtube videos!
Now I can share with y'all one of my all-time favourite moments in rock n' roll history....

The Big Reveal

2007-06-18T16:08:00.001-07:00

The final Secret Pal 10 package has arrived along with my Secret Pal's reveal. It's bittersweet really. I've loved all of my packages. She's been such an amazing spoiler. I'm a-gonna miss her BIG time!

wait for it...wait for it...

baaaa!!!

Dublin, New Hampshire

My pal is a spinnin-dyin-knittin' babe from Dublin, New Hampshire. She owns and runs the Dublin General Store which has a yarn shop inside. You can buy yarn, booze and snacks all at the same time! Can you spell heaven!? She hopes that in the next year she'll convert her 3 acre backyard into a farm with sheep and chickens and whatever else comes her way! How cool is that!?

mmm...mmm...good!

Many of my favourite things. The dark and mint chocolate are to die for! mon dieu! Bamboo dpns and sheep stickers and little yellow booties to put on the end of my needles and...

Happy Rocks

Directions: Give a Happy Rock to someone you love.
Watch them smile!
Slowly but surely, the smile will fade as it is absorbed
into the heart of the receiver.

I love the sentiment behind these Happy Rocks. I do my best to carry little stones with me every where I go, sometimes in my purse or jacket pockets. They remind me to be thankful for all that I have. How perfect to have smiley face ones!

Hippos Who Knit

And these are just adorable. Knitting hippos! Too bad that the photo sucks. I believe these are chopsticks. But they're just too cute to use. I will keep them on my desk for when I need a good chuckle.

1967

Some stunning sock yarn that was hand-dyed by my awesome pal. This one is superwash merino. I've named it 1967 because it is just too groovy for words, only numbers will do. And I do believe this was a very, very good year!

Purple Rain

This gorgeous skein was also hand-dyed and it is 100% merino. I've named it Purple Rain. It's so sexy and soft I may need to wear it around my neck. I adore it!

Thanks ladybugboo! You rock! I'll be checking out your blog and your pix. I hope that you've enjoyed this round of SP as much as I have. You are an amazing spoiler! And if I ever make it out to Dublin, I'll be ringin' your door bell fer sure! Thank you, thank you very much.

TTC KAL...A day in pictures...

2007-06-11T18:08:00.001-07:00

And it went something like this...Saturday June 9, 2007....

The very brave Lisa asked that I co-captain TTC Knit-a-long Team West with her. Our team reached 21 knitters by 10:00am! I usually can't speak till at least noon, especially on a Saturday. Particularly after a Drunken Knitters Night! But we held it together, or maybe I just faked it really well....

Captain, my Captain

First stop, Village Yarns. They treated Team West to a warm welcome, loot bags, a big arse raffle and some sweet snacks....these were the napkins on hand...

can ya dig it?

Thanks to Lisa for making the mimosas mucho delisio! These lovely ladies came in from Waterloo. Fabulous dames. Lotsa fun....

Waterloo-nies keep keepin on!
(Amy, Lynn and Beth)

Patrick mixed mimosas and gave us a tour of the fabulous shop. Talk about a know-it-all, this dude really knows his shtuff! I was dizzy from all the info, or it coulda bin the champagne. shhh...

Village Yarns' Patrick and The Wall of Sock(s)

One of the things that gets the hub out to the west end (besides my wonderful family) is Patrick's gy-normous Bouvier...

Zoe guards the Noro

Team West grabbed there goodies and headed off for their long trek to the big city and the mecca known as Romni. I don't have any pictures of this stop. I was too busy lei-ing myself in fleece artist and peek-a-boo-ing with the babes (see Sophie's silly pic). And then after a brief stop at the neighbouring Second Cup the knitters were off to the groovy cool Americo....

We "heart" Americo

Here I am with Brooklyn sporting one of their stunning cotton hoody-shrugs. This beautiful baby-blue number was donated to the KAL as a kit for the Most Original Knitted Object Prize. After feeling up and sniffing all of the Americo we headed to Kensington Market for some much needed lunch and a Lettuce Knit fix.....

Enter at your own risk

We were greeted by the lovely ladies at Lettuce Knit. Denny had made some delicious treats for us. My fave was a Martha Stewart specialty, topped with Nutella!

Denny & Megan

We all took a bit of a time out in the Market and sat out on the lawn lunching and stitching. At one point a fella came running over from the bar across the street yelling, "Is it really International Knitting in Public Day? Somebody please gimme something to knit!" So I handed him a garter stitch shawl I was working on and to our surprise not only did he knit, he picked! Yup, he got all continental on our asses!

Pickin' and a-grinnin!

He said he learned to knit so that he could pick up his friend's grandmother. Nice. Seeing that I had to rip back the stitchin' he had done, I'm sure he didn't have much luck with the grandmother either!

I see Wendy and Glenna and...Wonder Woman!

We packed up our gear and headed on out to the last stop on the whirlwind KAL - The Naked Sheep....It took us one Spadina car and two Queen cars to get there...

Are we freakin there yet!?

But we made it. A little late, but better late than never... This is the only pic I have from that stop.

Dirty

Some knitters had already been there waiting for an hour so we had to make the prize distribution quick and take a moment to stop and shop. And then to a patio for some snacks and relaxin'.

Waterloo-nies keepin me sane!

Much to my dissapointment the patio did not have a liquor liscence. What!?? I almost lost my mind! I had a bit of a tantrum, ordered a cola (!?) and pulled out the knitting. Thanks to the Waterloonies for helping me keep my sanity!

And thanks to everyone else who took part in this Krazy KAL. Hope you enjoyed it, hope that you're out there somewhere fondling yarn! Until next time....

Brooklyn in Americo!

2007-06-08T12:38:00.001-07:00

Look who I met today! I stopped by one of my favourite haunts during my lunch break and there she was - Brooklyn! Isn't she just the sweetest!?

Americo's Silent Partner

Brooklyn, Javier's "daughter", is one of the cutest, chic-est Jack Russell's I have ever met. She gladly posed for a pic and insisted she show off some Americo! Doesn't the purple cotton just bring out her father's eyes!? Stunning!

Warrant Officer Bruce on Parade

2007-06-04T20:08:00.000-07:00

My nephew, Dustin, had his Annual Ceremonial Review Parade with the 75th Toronto Scottish Regiment Cadet Corps last Tuesday. It gets better every year and so does he....

Dustin and his troop

His sister, Kassidy, must really enjoy this. He's bossing other kids around instead of her and - he's in a skirt and a purse, uh, I mean kilt and murse.

the Band

Besides watching our boy march, this has got to be one of my favourite parts of the ceremony. I LOVE the band! Bagpipes and all. The drums simply rock. It takes everything out of me not to full out dance. I must admit, I shake my booty slightly and hope nobody notices. shhhh...

Fierce

The sound system is really bad at Fort York. It was as if Charlie Brown's teacher was hosting. When Dustin's name was called out for the Training Officer's Award for General Proficiency, he didn't hear it. They called him out a second time and he saluted and said "Sir!"Although it kinda sounded like "Doh!"

Very well deserved indeed!

But the hoopla didn't stop there. He was also awarded a medal for five years of service. It's hard to believe that he's been doing it for that long. And it's even harder to believe that he's doing it at all, coming from a family of hippie freaks. But kids rebel in their own ways, right?

Five swell years

And even though there weren't any fancy floats at this parade and Santa never showed up, these clowns still happened to have a good time...

Peace & Love

You done us proud, my friend. Keep it up! You're making the rest of us look good. Always and forever, Titi.

Sista Sox & KO Jewels

2007-05-31T21:29:00.000-07:00

Sista's b-day celebration was an awesome success. Especially since I finished sock B just in time! Here they are in all of their glory. I love that they don't match. Rebel, rebel....

Opal Denim

But they do match nicely with these gorgeous earings . Inspired by the yarn colours, KO's original designs were made exclusively for Sista....

jewellery by Kate O'Hare

Sista's tattoo is of a forget-me-not surrounded by vines that spell out her kids' initials - K for Kassidy and D for Dustin. We like to tease her and tell her that she's got a Kraft Dinner tattoo.

Kelly's Kraft Dinner

Isn't she lovely....

2007-05-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

Sista sista what can I say to you on this very special day...
I wish you all the very best from this big ass crazy world...
And I pray that all of your dreams come true...

Kelly Giselle (Flores) Bruce

Especially the one where we win the lotto
and we buy our own main "batch"...
Where we can grow old together (not that we ever will)...
You are the best sister anyone could ever have
and even a better friend...
I lobe u lots sista forever and ever....
Happy Birthday, Hermanita...
Te quiero mucho.
xo

KIP on the TTC - Saturday June 9th

2007-05-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yup! It's that time of year again, knittahs!! So get your passports and hop on board the TTC Knit-A-Long! How else are you gonna celebrate International Knitting In Public Day? Get on public transit, yarn in hand and go from LYS to LYS, knitting all the way. Village Yarns, Passion Knits, AlterKnit, Knitomatic, Romni Wools, Lettuce Knit, The Naked Sheep and new to this year's KAL, the one - the only - Americo!

Go on now and join one of three stitchin' bitchin' teams. You know you want to! (I'll be co-captain on Team West). Click here to see the day's schedule and to register for your passport. You'll receive a 10% discount on all yarn that day and be eligible for various treats and prizes. See y'all there! Don't miss out! I hear that the last TTC KAL was entertained with an unsuspected Elvis siting!

Yarn Birds

2007-05-29T08:56:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me this pic and yarn bird info. I love the art and the folklore behind it. Aren't they tweet!?

Yarn birds feed on cotton yarn which grows on cotton yarn trees. Yarn bird lovers put metal frames on trees to attract these birds to live there. Female yarn birds are more beautiful than the male. A normal yarn bird family consists of one female and two to three male yarn birds. Each year mother and father yarn bird both sheds a thread and mother starts knitting up a baby yarn bird. Father yarn birds do not know how to knit but know how to eat.

SP Strikes Again!

2007-05-27T17:07:00.001-07:00

Look what I came home to on Friday night. Secret Pal goodness! I love this book! The patterns are quick and cool - just how I like'em!

And the yarn is a-rockin! There's some Rowan and Gedifra and some wacky stuff I've never even heard of - Banana Silk and Recycled Yarn!! Awesome! I love it! And the card is so sweet - colourful sheep baaahh-ing at the moon. Thanks Secret Pal! I'm off to play with some yarn, before counting some sheep....

Dusk and Sangria

2007-05-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share a few things that are just sitting around the ol' crib. I was thrilled to make a brief stop at the Kniterary in Whitby this weekend (thanks Mom & Jay). The shop is so quaint and Martina is so friendly and the yarn totally rocks. Inspired by Amy R. Singer's Montana Bay Scarf in Summer 07's Interweave, I was enchanted by the Sea Silk. Handmaiden has such exquisite yarns. I believe this skein's colour may be Sangria. Salud!

Three Glasses Full

Last night I headed to Lettuce Knit, with my brand new lawn chair in tow, for some knitting, tinking, friends and guffaws. There I met up with a very special someone.....

Dusk

Thanks to Lisa! She surprised me with a coupla monster-ass skeins of this groov-a-licious Cherry Tree Hill Jumbo Loop Mohair. To entice me in some co-captain-ness for Team West in the TTC KAL(have u signed up yet?); as an incentive to get me up good and early on a Saturday morning (only for Lisa and Team West! Go TW!!); and to console me for the loss of Goldie 2.

Oh yeah!

This mohair madness will soon be known as, Dusk, a glorious triangle shawl. Garter, increase, garter. Cheers. Brainlessly brilliant! We hope to be ready for the Collingwood Elvis Festival! Now, that's a hunka hunka burnin' yarn!

What Jay Said...

2007-05-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

It seems that the hubs wasn't quite pleased enuf with my anwers to

Lisa's interview. Soooo, without yet further ado....what Jay said:

1) If you had to live in a country other than the one you currently inhabit, what country would you chose to live in (assuming that money and language barrier are nonissues)?
I haven't been to too many places, so that's a hard decision to make. If I could, I would take a world tour. I wanna go everywhere. I wanna see everything and then I wanna relax on a Uruguayan beach.
Jay: you didn't answer the question. Pick a place and live there!
Sandi: bah! fine! Uruguay, but probably not for long.

2) What book do you think every teenager should read at least once?
Are You There God, It's Me Margaret. Or any other Judy Blume books for that matter! Superfudge! Blubber! I also loved the S.E. Hinton books: The Outsiders, That Was Then, This Is Now, Rumblefish. Although these might be a little "dated" now.
Jay: These are THREE answers. Pick one, and tell me about it!
Sandi: Are u there God, bla bla bla. This chick gets her period and then someone loses a thumb. It's great!
Jay: ok...ok...I'm just concerned for your decision making skills. Are u ovulating again?
Sandi: grrrrr....

3) When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Rich and Famous. So I could buy my mama a really big house.
Jay: Now this is perfect!
Sandi: Ever bin to Graceland?
Jay: No.
Sandi: Memphis, Tennessee
Jay: I know. What u wanna go?
Sandi: Welcome to my planet. Where've u bin all these years?
Jay: Let's scratch another Cash for Life.
Sandi: I think we're off topic now....

4) What item of clothing should be outlawed (if any)?
for men: speedos
for women: thong underwear
Jay: But I thought thongs were better for fashion?
Sandi: Eff fashion! those things can give you yeast infections. Rubbing against your butt and then your... you know! If you're worried about pantylines, don't wear underwear!
Jay: Go comando! HOT!

5) If you were in a hotel and could order any food you could imagine from room service, what would you have for breakfast?
poached eggs, dark rye and turkey bacon
a salad and frites
buttermilk pancakes with lotsa maple syrup and dulce de leche
and a pitcher of mimosas
Jay: Cool. Now that's an answer! What's a mimosa?
Sandi: Look it up, chump!
Jay: I'll look you up in a second....
Sandi: What was that?
Jay: uh, I got nuthin'.
Sandi: Thought so.

The Interview

2007-05-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

Lisa sent me some great questions. Thanks! And without further ado, here are my answers for The Interview:

1) If you had to live in a country other than the one you currently inhabit, what country would you chose to live in (assuming that money and language barrier are nonissues)?
I haven't been to too many places, so that's a hard decision to make. If I could, I would take a world tour. I wanna go everywhere. I wanna see everything and then I wanna relax on a Uruguayan beach.
2) What book do you think every teenager should read at least once?
Are You There God, It's Me Margaret. Or any other Judy Blume book for that matter! Superfudge! Blubber! I also loved the S.E. Hinton books: The Outsiders, That Was Then, This Is Now, Rumblefish. Although these might be a little "dated" now.
3) When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Rich and Famous. So I could buy my mama a really big house.
4) What item of clothing should be outlawed (if any)?
for men: speedos
for women: thong underwear
5) If you were in a hotel and could order any food you could imagine from room service, what would you have for breakfast?
poached eggs, dark rye and turkey bacon
a salad and frites
buttermilk pancakes with lotsa maple syrup and dulce de leche
and a pitcher of mimosas

Wanna to play? Here's how:
1. Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me." (and your email address)
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

Black Pearl Sockette To 'Em

2007-05-19T22:44:00.000-07:00

I've been blessed with geisha-tiny feet. Which means I can pick up shoes/boots in the kidlette's department (cheap cheap) and I can knit me up some sock(ette)s lickedy-split!

Started: A coupla weeks ago
Finished: Monday May 14th
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in Black Pearl
Needles: Brittany DPNs 2.5mm
Pattern: basic cuff down (easy-peasy)

Memedy-meme

2007-05-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks Doctah Steph!

The Rules: Each person tagged gives 7 random facts about themselves. Those tagged need to write in their blogs 7 facts, as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag seven others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and need to read your blog. The facts:

1) I wish I could survive on a diet of dark chocolate and Pinot Noir, with a margarita thrown in every once in a while to spice things up.

2) I met my husband while I was hosting an open stage in Kensington Market.

3) I played Pearl in a high school production of Oklahoma. I had one line - Too bad you missed Laura's weddin'.

4) I have lived with 7 cats: Indigo, Mimosa, Henry, Kiss, Nikita, Molly and Martin. (not ALL at the same time. I am NOT a crazy cat lady. I swear).

5) I started playing guitar when I was eight. I stopped during my teens and picked it up again in my 20's. I have had air-play and DJ spins with two songs so far. FunBags has been played on 102.1 The Edge and El Rey, a latin house hit has been spun and remixed internationally. You can listen to them here.

6) I have a Drama Studies BA. Adrienne Clarkson received her Honorary Doctorate of Law during my convocation.

7) If you google me, this comes up.

And I'm gonna tag: Soosan, Mel, Nadia, Wendy Koko, Vik, and Sonia

Eff Freakin Oh!

2007-05-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

This post comes a little late. This sweater/jacket was started around March 11th and finished on May 2nd. The pattern was ridiculously simple. Knit, Knit, drink, Knit, Knit, eat, drink, Knit. Something like that, but don't quote me. It could have been finished earlier, but other dang projects kept getting in the way, bla bla bla...

Le Closed

The pattern came from the Knit Café. It was their "free" March pattern - The Manos Jacket. It called for 5 skiens of Manos del Uruguay, but the budget would not allow for it. Thanks to Haley and her super duper sale at Knitomatic and I was able to pick up these huge balls of self-striping Murano for an amazing price. And thanks to Terri at Alterknits for the tips on picking up the sleeve stitches and Cristina at the 'Cup for helping me mend the hole! shhhhh...

Le Open

The yarn is super soft and a pleasure to knit with. Can I tell you how much I love the spectacular vertical stripes?! And thanks to Michael (my boss) for the Rethink Breast Cancer Fashion Target T. He gets one for all of the girls every year!

Le Back

I've had nothing but compliments on this stunning piece. So of course I hafta knit up another real soon. Hopefully in a solid colour. I hear that black is the new black. And it "goes" with just about everything. Well, except for cat hair.

Le Pin

I was thrilled to find this adorable bumble bee shawl/sweater pin at Romni. It gives it a fun touch and now I have a poking weapon if need be. Bee, get it? whatev.....go knit something.

Viva Secret Pal!!!

2007-05-14T18:05:00.001-07:00

It all started with a big box and this wee note. Seems that my pal has a friend who just happened to be on his way to Memphis. Memphis!! Memphis, Tennesseeeee!!!

And so she requested that he pick up a little sumthin sumthin for this Hunka Hunka Burnin' Fan's b-day. This is what he found. Crazy or what!? As my pal put it demented!! Truly. I've always wanted one of those no parking signs!

The other piece is unbelievable!! I have never, ever seen one of these. The Welcome to Las Vegas Musical Sign. Hear Elvis Sing the Original Viva Las Vegas - It lights, flashes and sings. It so totally does!

Perhaps now I've seen everything? I wish I could post video footage so you could hear the King sing and see the lights flash flash flash! My own private Vegas.

Thanks Secret Pal for stretching out my birthday celebration even a little further with such rockin' gifts. Great surprise! And please thank your friend for thinkin' of me in Memphis. Thanks to both of you, I am now one degree closer to the King. You are an amazing spoiler. I hope that karma is catching up to you and treating you very very well indeed! Thankuthankuverymuch!

I heart Mom

2007-05-13T19:43:00.000-07:00

The post comes one day late, since I could not let the flowers out of the bag before Mother's Day! I knit a few dishcloths for some moms who frequent Hunka Hunka Burnin' Yarn, I couldn't let them see what I was up to, now could I? The ladies loved them. Here they are enjoying some fresh air on mom's balcony.

Las Flores

The green one is for my mom, the blue for my sista. Both were knit with Phentex Craft Cotton. The center part, the "flower", is a crocheted circle. The square is knit and creates the "leaves". Here are both pieces flat. Can you tell what they are?

Eleanor the Elephant

My mom has a very impressive elephant collection. Teapots, jewelery, towels, pillows, figurines, the list goes on and on. Eleanor adds to the collection as the first dishcloth.

Teddy the Cloth

Sista loves teddy bears. Not only did she marry one (Ted), but her wedding theme was inspired by teddy bears. They even graced her wedding cake!

We spent a wonderful day with the moms and the kids and the dads and our abuelita eating, drinking, laughing, playing (and knitting) and, as always, enjoying each others company. Another lovely Mother's day on the Flores-Correa-Martinez-Holz-Bruce family tree.

El Rey con Las Flores

Correction

2007-05-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

It was brought to my attention that yesterday's post was slightly incorrect.

number 9 should have read:

9. He does dishes, laundry, cooks dinner, prepares my lunch, rubs my feet and cleans the litter (sometimes even all on the same day!)

Birthday Jay

2007-05-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

In honour of my super-duper hubs' birthday I give you the.....

Top 10 Reason Why Jason Flores-Holz Rocks My World:

1. He loves me, ya ya ya!

2. He has a kind, caring soul.

3. He loves the cats.

4. He is an extremely talented artist-singer-songwriter-musician.

5. He is super hot (aka ¡Muy Caliente!)

6. He makes me laugh harder than anyone I know.

7. He laughs at all of my jokes and silly songs & dance moves.

8. He loves my family (and they adore him).

9. He does dishes, laundry and litter (sometimes even all on the same day!)

10. He is patient with my shopping needs and respects the yarn.

Wishing you all the best of everything and loving you with all of my heart. Cheers to many more birthday celebrations and many more groovy years of peace, love and understanding. You my favourite! xoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Birthday Hoopla!

2007-05-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways to celebrate a birthday and so little time. Here are a few of the hits:

April 7th Lisa takes Kassidy and I on an all-expenses paid trip for two to We Will Rock You! And it did! We sing and stomp and shake the glow stick to all of the hits. And we get to meet The Gambler! If you have a chance, catch the show. You will be rocked. Thanks Lisa!

All that's left of the kickass night - Kassidy's earings

April 14 Josée throws the most fabuloso b-day dinner for me and my samba grrls: Geeje, Carolina and Dani Lafond. Hilarious moments, delicious food and wine, generous gifts, killer cake and mucho mucho love.

April 21st Sista Kelly and Klassic D come downtown for a salon-spa day at Concepts. Thanks for joining us Jacquie. And then some shopping and later, laughs on the Spirits patio.

April 24th Knittahs surprise me at the House of Sammon with yarny goodness, vino and cupcakes! Thanks again ladies, that was swell! You shouldn’t have, but I’m oh-so-glad-that-you-did!

April 25th Lunch time Party at Clarity. Catered by Spring Rolls, Dufflets and The Kensington Bakery. Happy Birthday Richard! Happy Almost-Birthday Me! Thanks everybody for another spectacular feast! Since no one at the office likes the Carob Spelt cake, I take it to the Stitch n Bitch at the 2nd Cup. The bitches put down the stitchin’ and dig right in! Sweet.

April 26th The big day. The I-can't-believe-how-old-I-am Day. If it's true, and you are only as old as you feel, am I twelve? Am I 98? Am I really me? You betcha! I'm a twelve year-old going on 98. Aren't we all?

April 27th I get inked. Jay takes me tattooing. One for each decade and one touch up on an oldie. With Jay's magnificent designs and Ben at Yonge Street Tattoos’ articulate gun and graceful needle, I walk out of there an original masterpiece. One more week or so of "after care" and I'll share them with y'all. For now, here's a shot of Ami from Miami Ink.

¡ha-cha-cha!

April 28th The fabulous Jason Flores-Holz throws me a most amazing surprise party. Sista and Kass surprise me when I get home from my stand-up class with streamers and balloons. I didn't suspect a thing when they told me that we had to go to Smokey Joe's for karaoke because Spirit's karaoke starts too late. Besides, Ted would meet us there and be able to drive the Bruce girls home. Ok. In an Advil Cold and Sinus medicated haze, I walk into a friend-and-family filled extravaganza. Surprise!!! Thanks to the hubs for being so sneaky and to all of the gang for making the big 4-0 such a groovy event! (Note: The karaoke was a ruse. It only happens on Sundays. Hmph!)

April 29th I put down the needles, pick up the mic, raise the curtain on my stand-up schtick and I do NOT poop my pants! After 8 weeks, once-a-week, 3-hrs per night stand-up course at The Second City, my set is ready and I kill. Well, the kids tell me that I did. I trust them. Why would they lie?

Me and the boys from my stand-up class
(left to right) Dmitry, Bobby, me. Connor, Chris, Ed, Morgan (in front)

I've included the stand-up show as part of my b-day celebrations because in a way, it was a gift to myself. I've always wanted to give stand-up a try, but I was scared poopless. I've done the comedy, the drama, the music, the improv, why not the stand-up? I really enjoyed it. The writing process, the performance, the laughter. I intend to give it another go. Who knows, maybe this time, in front of strangers even! Thanks all, for the support and the laff track.

This was a truly remarkable birthday. People ask me if I feel any different this year, it being a "big" b-day and all. And, I do. I feel strong and secure and ready to keep conquering the world. And I feel way more loved than I ever have before. This getting older thing kinda rocks. What a wonderful place to be.

Rebel, Rebel

2007-05-06T20:22:00.001-07:00

Happy B-day to me...

2007-04-26T12:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all for... the wonderful wishes, generous gifts and beautiful cards. Here's one I just have to share....

Grassyass!

2007-04-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

Jacquie, Sophie, Soo, Nadia, Lisa, Kerry, Michelle, Lynne and Amy. Ladies, u rock. totally. thanks for treating me to such yumminess. the cupcakes, the wine, the yarn, the yabber-yabber, the gawfahs. you are all too sweet, über generous and wonderfully hilarious - just how i like'em! it was awesome to spend some knit-fiily-ed bitchen' time with y'all. hope to see you all real soon! xoxo

Nerd!

2007-04-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

What Be Your Nerd Type? Your Result: Musician Doo doo de doo waaaa doo de doo! (<-- That's you playing something.) Everyone appreciates the band/orchestra geeks and the pretty voices. Whether you sing in the choir, participate in a school/local band, or sit at home writing music, you contribute a joy to society that everyone can agree on. Yay! Welcome to actually doing something for poor, pathetic human souls. (Just kidding.)
Drama Nerd
Literature Nerd
Artistic Nerd
Social Nerd
Gamer/Computer Nerd
Anime Nerd
Science/Math Nerd
What Be Your Nerd Type? Quizzes for MySpace

the Pal

2007-04-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting to post with pix, but if i keep that up i may never post at all! and I must share my good fortune.....I've been blessed with yet another wonderful Secret Pal! A package arrived last weekend, containing all of my favourite things! Debbie Bliss woolly goodness and some handspun gorgeousness, a wooden needle measuring thing-a-ma-bob. (which i really really wanted. the one i have used to belong to Jay's gram and the numbers are all worn out.), some chocolate sheep (delish!!) and in an Elvis gift bag.....a Jail House Rock T!!! Which fits me perfectly and it's gonna rock with the new jacket i'm knitting. Thank you Secret Pal! You're a very generous spoiler. Keep on rockin!

Kitty Pup

2007-04-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

You Are: 50% Dog, 50% Cat

You are a nice blend of cat and dog.
You're playful but not too needy. And you're friendly but careful.
And while you have your moody moments, you're too happy to stay upset for long.

Are You More Cat or Dog?

Guerilla Feet

2007-04-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

My nephew, Dustin, turned 17 on March 22nd(!!!) Being a karate chopping army cadet, only wool toe socks would do! I found a few patterns on-line but they just weren't working out for me. One was a toe up version (I don't do "toe-up". yet!) and the other was for a lady's foot and this fella's a men's size 12! I took a few notes, made a few adjustments and came up with my latest creation....

Guerilla Feet in Camouflage

Note: the picture sucks, but I am grateful that I at least still have my cell-phone to capture my silly artistic moments.

To accesorize Dustin's cozy feet the hubs ordered the Pyramat Sound Rocker. When it finally arrived at Jay's office, it was so huge he had to go out and buy a dolly just to transport the monster home! I'm sure my sister is blown away with its powerhouse bass and sub-woofer amplitude! Happy Birthday, Gypsy-Boy!

Spreading Rumours

2007-03-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

I couldn't stand seeing Sharon in that ratty black & white striped toque. That big-ass Roots logo was starting to give me a migraine. I hated it so much that I had to knit her a new one. Stitched up in Paton's Rumour, this Hibiscus Heather alpaca-mix looks rockin on her little asian head. Isn't she cute? Don't let her fool you, she's the devil in disguise.

Vietnamese Lola

The knit was so quick and the yarn so soft and scrumptious that when Fiona made a request for one in Duberry Heather, how could I refuse. Isn't she fierce? Fierce as a teddy bear's picnic!

FiFi LaRoo

Of course, I had to have one for myself in Fern Heather (no pic available). How could I resist the gorgeous green and fuzzy warmness. And then Kathryn's b-day snuck up on me so quick, I had to whip up something in a flash! Being a smartarse (and frugal), I decided to combine all three colours to create a stripe-y ribbed medley. This way she could carry all three of us around on her head, all the while keeping herself snug and stylin'.

St. Kate the Great

Secret Pal 10 - The Questionnaire

2007-03-10T17:01:00.000-08:00

Let the swapping begin!

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
• SUPER-faves: big bulky stuff like Americo; super soft stuff like cashmere and Malabrigo; anything from Fleece Artist and sock yarn.
• NON-faves: anything that sheds or is itchy and scratchy, acrylics or freaky eyelashy stuff.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
• Elvis tins that used to hold chocolates and a tall glass candle holder with the Virgin Mary on it. The candle, like the chocolates, is long gone of course!

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
• I started when I was a wee one, maybe 7 or 8. Learned from my mom. I would consider myself intermediate verging on advanced.

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

5. What's your favorite scent?
• I like minty, tea tree, eucalyptus or spicey cinnamon-y stuff. Florals and fruity scents give me headaches. i don't do baths and I only burn bees wax candles.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
• I can never get enough of dark chocolate! dark chocolate with mint, dark chocolate with almonds, dark chocolate with dark chocolate...

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
• if I’m not knitting, I’m either reading, blogging, shopping or playing guitar. Occasionally I’ll mess around with beads (thanks to KO's inspiration). And I will learn to spin one of these days!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
• I have an iPod and an iMac. I like just about all kinds of music, except for swearing rappers, screaching metal heads and girly female vocals – they get on my nerves. I tend to like *older *music (Elvis, The Beatles, Patsy Cline, Billie Holiday, Los Panchos).

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
• if I could, I’d live in a rainbow. Purple might be my fave. But I also love fall colours and pinks with black. I’m not too keen on neons.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
• blissfully married with two stunning cats.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
• I sure do, and sometimes all at once!

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
• I enjoy creating my own thing. Like taking a pattern and amending it a bit or perhaps mixing two patterns to make it more unique. I love gifting, so quick knits like hats, scarves or arm warmers are always on the go. As well as socks. I dig the socks.

13. What are you knitting right now?
• socks and a sweater.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
• totally!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
• straight, circs, dpns. I prefer bamboo, but I do own aluminum and plastic.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
• thanks to Santa Hubs, yes and yes!

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
• 10 months

18. What is your favorite holiday?
• it's a tie between Christmas and Halloween

19. Is there anything that you collect?
• all things Elvis (the king of rock, not the skater)

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
• I love addi turbo needles. As for books, I'd love to get my paws on No Sheep for You, Twinkles Big City Knits, any of the Vogue Stitchionary books. I do not have any subscriptions.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
• I'm just starting to fair isle and i'd love to magic loop.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
• Yes. I’m a ladies shoe size 5 (approx length of barefoot from back of heel to tip of big toe: 8.5)

23. When is your birthday?
• April 26th

Chit Chat

2007-02-27T21:06:00.000-08:00

The Wild & Crazy pair were knit up for Bonnie's b-day. I made her a pair last year, but she gave them to the school crossing guard. Bonnie is a very kind soul. Don't look too closely, these are my first attempt at fair isle. The purple-ish beauties were stitched for Fiona's b-day. Yes, I'm a gifting freak.

Bonnie Lass

2007-02-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

Isn't she lovely!? Now, this would be Bonnie "Kiss Me Arse" Burnet sporting the latest rage in Paton's Shetland Chunky Tweed (Deep Red). The photo does not do the model or the hat justice, but the camera is on the fritz and the cell phone cam just had to do. Bonnie had requested a groovy hat to keep her noggin warm and I thought "woo, another excuse to knit up Le Slouch!" Fun and painless to knit and it looks so freakin' fabulous!

Bloomin' Spoiled

2007-02-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

The hubs was off to the studio with da' boyz for some good ol' rock n' roll recording on Sunday afternoon, so I gladly played rockstar wife and took myself to Bloom for a Eucalyptus & Spearmint Pedicure with scrub, masque and mint soak. For colour --> OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark. There's nothing quite like sitting back in a cushy red velvet chair and having your feet pampered all while knitting up a sock. The entire experience --> truly divine and highly recommended!

Blob-a-versary

2007-02-16T21:54:00.000-08:00

A year ago today I didn't have a clue and today, a year later, I still don't have much of one. Regardless, I'm so glad that I hopped on board the blog-train. I'm not a heavy poster. I wish that I was, but sitting in front of a computer all day doesn't leave much of a desire to do the same when I get home in the evening. Nevertheless, it's always groovy to check in and check it out. And it totally blows my mind when I see that someone from half way across the world has found my little ol' blog. Thanks T.O. knitters & Knitting Olympics Team Canada for turning me on. I've met such amazing people and some of them even knit. I dig the sharing. The Secret Pals. The Swaps. The Drunken Knit nights. The inspiration. Thank you, thank you very much....

Happy BalentiMes!!

2007-02-14T13:43:00.000-08:00

I'm a sucker for love. Always have been. And I've been fortunate enuf to catch me the love of my life! The hubs proposed to me on Valentine's day. That day, two years ago, Jay woke me with breakfast in bed and a bunch of gifts. Actually, the first gift he gave me that year was at midnight - an exercise ball. I didn't quite know how to take it, but I had asked for one at some point. The man listens!

And then the next morning, with breakfast, there were flowers and an Elvis DVD (King Creole) and a ring. When he gave me the ring he said, "This is not an engagement ring, it is just a valentine's day present."And I stuck my foot in my mouth by saying "Yeah, it would be sooo cheezie to get engaged on valentines' day! sheesh!" Later that night, just before dinner arrived at our table, he got down on one knee and, cheezie or not, proposed. Engagement ring and all! A silly moment to add to the memorable evening -- the waiter, not seeing Jay on his knee, tripped over him. Luckily the waiter was empty handed. And the hubs had his hands full! Forever!

Wasn't that a Party!

2007-02-13T15:25:00.000-08:00

Kassidy's party was simply superb. All da' cool kids were there. We met at Planet Bowl, put on our suspicious footwear and did our best to stretch a little before pulling any muscles. The young'uns, Kassidy and her 11/12 year old troupe, took one lane and the brothahs, sistas and primos took another.

BFF

The adult bunch were surprisingly - awesome? Who knew my brother was such a twinkle toes, that brother Ted and cousin Tingo swung their balls with such punch, and that Heidi was so consistent in her game, despite any previous back pain horror. Vicki won the game for the big girls'. And Ted took it for da' boys. Then we retired to the Planet Bowl party room...
for some frantic gift opening and delicious cake licking ...

The hubs and I love to hear the girls scream. Well, I do anyway. Last year Jay made Kass a birthday card -- Kassidy and Ron Weasley photoshopped together. They screamed like The Beatles were in the room. So we had to top that this year with...

What could it possibly be?
And why are they making me wear these ridiculous sunglasses?

OMG! I can't believe it! Could it be?!

it IZ! it IZzzz!

My very own karaoke machine!!

and some of her favorite CD's. The Beatles and High School Musical. It made them screech like New Kids on the Block were in the room! Success. Sista and I had a mini after-show later in the evening, once the girls had retreated to their room. Yesterday. Penny Lane. Paperback Writer. Help. Let it Be. The crowd loved us. Or at least Jay did. From Planet Bowl we headed to Kass', for a change into pads and skates and such -

The Dolphins are playing at 6.

The girls rocked the rink! Number 12 could learn to play with the others, but she did score 4 for the team. The winning 4. Strange to hear her remark in the change room after the game, "Does my hair look ok?". I coulda swore she was a Hanson brother on the ice. Kassidy kept to her post like a booger on a kleenex. Relentlessly she shoo-ed them out of her end and even played part in an assist. You go girl. Dee-fence!! Keep your eyes out for Number 15.

And so the entourage waited at the doors to the rink for the pick up back to Kassidy's, where karaoke krazyness would ensue...

Diva

The little music machine came with two mics and you can set it up so that the lyics show up on the TV monitor. Much hilarity and painful pitches later, Dustin broke out some System of the Down and really blew us away with his pipes. The boy can really sing! Who knew? He put on some (Led) Zepplin and I had my first duet with my nephew...

Stairway to Heaven

Kassidy and the gals: Lindsey, Amy and Cassidy with a "c", allowed us in the the VIP room for a petit photoshoot and some chitchat. Check out the loot!

This way, sista!

Welcome...

Coif in Americo. Shrug in Slubby.

The girls had gone through the gifts, sang a few songs and opened the gifts (again). What else was there to do? How 'bout we put a whole bunch of things in a glass and dare each other to drink it? Ok! Eventually they traded in the tabasco sauce, mayonnaise and mustard for some very berry smoothies. Phew! To distract the ladies from their crazy concoctions, I decided to show the gals a little game I like to play called, "Big Bootie". The girls were addicted. (They were still playing the next morning, while I was trying to sleep). Sista and Jay played. Even Dustin hopped on board. A nice 7 bootied Big Bootie*! Then we brought it down a bit and lounged around playing Things in a Box. Have you ever played? I'd like to play with everyone, all of the time. You in? Strangers on the subway? Things you wouldn't kiss...

• a toad, 'cause it ain't really a prince
• a dog's butt
• uncle Jay's snot
• a steel pole in -17degrees weather
• your buttocks!
• Ted's feet
• boys
• stinky feet
• a toilet

Now, you have to keep in mind that 4 12 yr olds and 5 over 30something-ishes were playing. I said, Ted's socks. Someone had commented on them earlier in the evening. I thought it'd be a good time to use it. And Ted said, boys. Big surprise. His daughter just turned 12. Great game. Go play.

And of course the night could not end without a ghoulish ghost story. When the girls were tucked into their little nests of blankets and pillows, surrounded by stuffed toys and all things pink, I thought it'd be a good time to go in. "Hey, Titi, will you tell us a ghost story?" "Nooo...!", screamed Cassidy with a "c". My story went something like this: When we were driving home from the game tonight. Tata, me, Jay and abuela D stopped at Timmy Ho's 'cause Tato wanted us to bring him back a hot chocolate. Jay went in. We waited outside in the car. Three men in blue capes knocked on the window. They asked us a question and they left. A few seconds passed and Tata says, "What did they ask us?". I couldn't remember. None of us could remember. Jay came back with the hot chocolate and got into the car. "Did you see the dudes in the blue capes?", I asked. "Ya", he said, "they asked me something, but I can't remember what it was". The girls howled! And they're probably still looking for three men in blue capes. Was that bad of me? Kassidy, I know from previous camp-out ghost story experiences, likes them weird and surreal. Hope she dug it!

Big Bootie Girls

Saturday melted into Sunday and we headed home, Timmy Ho coffee in hand. We vegged on the couch and caught some Ali. And I finally finished the Socks of Love (6 or so months later) minutes before the Super Bowl was about to start. But truly, they rock....next post.

*Big Bootie is a fun high energy warm up game where the players stand in a circle, numbered Big Bootie to 8. The object is to be Big Bootie and stay Big Bootie. After Big Bootie the numbers then start at 1.For purpose of rhythm, it's best if the game is only played with monosyllabic numbers. The game starts with the theme Big Bootie, Big Bootie, Big Bootie, ooooooh yeah! then Big Bootie will kick things off by saying Big Bootie number (whatever) and then, keeping rhythm, the number Big Bootie called will have to say his or her number and then call on someone else. The player is out if they are out of rhythm or if they stumble on a word... OR if they have low energy and refuse to dance and shout... (which shouldn't be a problem.) The participants work their way to Big Bootie by getting the people out in front of their number, if they are so inclined. A line is formed behind the last number in the circle. The game can go on forever and ever....

Abuela Dinora

2007-02-05T15:54:00.000-08:00

Dinora Martinez turned 86 this year. Funny thing about my abuelita (and madrina) is that she has two birthdays. One January 17th and the other in October. We tease her about how she chooses birthdays depending on the time of year. "Oh, it's Dinora's birthday -- again!" Truth is, she was born in the interior of Uruguay (Tacuarembó). Back in those days it took months before anyone would go into town for anything. "Ya, I'll take a pound of maté, oh, and by the way I had a little girl about 8 months ago...."

Abuela D is a fabulous knitter and hooker! A true inspiration. She works from her own designs, whipping up shawls and hats and ponchos and slippers like it's nobody's bidness. My abuelita has wanted a Clapotis, ever since I can remember. And who am I to say "no"? Here she is in her...Clap-o-two and a matching Le Slouch:

Cozy

A remarkable woman. A knitter, a gardener, a cook, a mother, a grandmother, a friend. Dinora isn't a dame of many words, but she's been blessed with a huge huge heart. She lives with her crazy cat Coco (el Loco) and is often visited by her card playing latino neighbours. Not speaking or reading English, she still gets around on the TTC, travelling to various Abuelitos Clubs, hitting the old casino every chance she gets. And if you ever want to go for a cervezita, you will always have company when Dinora is around! Wishing my Abuelita D much peace and happiness and many many more beers, birthdays and bingos!

Knit up in Patons SWS, Natural Earth.
About 5 balls for the Clap and one for Le Slouch.

Chimera

2007-02-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

Thanks Lisa! I couldn't resist....

You Are a Chimera

You are very outgoing and well connected to many people.
Incredibly devoted to your family and friends, you find purpose in nurturing others.
You are rarely alone, and you do best in the company of others.
You are incredibly expressive, and people are sometimes overwhelmed by your strong emotions.

What Mythological Creature Are You?

Klassic D Day!

2007-02-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

Kassidy Kelly Bruce (Flores) celebrates her 12th birthday today!

She is one of my bestest friends ever. And one of my most favourite people in the whole wide world! I love spending time with her. We always have a great laugh!

She is one of the prettiest, kindest, sweetest, grooviest, funniest, koolest kids I know!
Hockey Star, Music Maker, Karaoke Kat, Super Model, Awesome Human.

We asked Kass if she'd promise to NOT grow up and NOT turn into a teenager.
She said that she'd try her best!

Happy Birthday, Kass!

Wishing you the most awesomest birthday ever!

Lobe u lots!!!

XOXOXO

Gifty Knits

2007-01-30T22:25:00.000-08:00

Lotsa knits for the holidays and birthdays and i need-something-new days.....

This, 16, going-on-17, year old, 15ft. chap sports a killer black toque. Ribbed up in Americo, Dustin - he like.

We watched The Sound of Music for this one. All 3 hours of it! (The Hubs still insists it was 4hrs, counting commercials). Kassidy's cuddled in A Few of My Favourite Scarves. A very long purple pooch and one of her grandma's gorgeous green creations.

Only the best for Dad (aka Mr. Valentine),
Devon's Toque in cashmere.

and he's ready for España!

Mom and Dad left for Spain on the 27th of December. They toured through Madrid, Sevilla, Cordoba, Salobrena and back through Madrid again, only to return to chilly Ontario on January 15th. Click here for details of their awesome trip. (Just kidding...but don't u wish you could?)

Primas, Vicki and Heidi go Americo in a pair of puffy key-hole scarves.

I can't stop knitting with Americo yarn. And why would I want to! It's the softest, plushiest, chewy-est stuff and it just melts through your fingers on huge-arse needles. Gratification guaranteed. Quick!

Another toque rocks the house!

wanna buy an "s"?

2007-01-29T13:45:00.000-08:00

I realize that I've been blog-absent since the King's b-day...do excuzeh-moi!
But I have been inspired by Michelle. And so I am at least touching base with a petit meme....i'll be back soon with some FO pix!

Rules: Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following...They MUST be real places, names, things...NOTHING made up! If you can't think of anything, skip it. Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same 1st initial. You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question.

Your Name: Sandi

1. Athlete: Scott Gomez
2. 4 letter word: Soul
3. Street name: Spadina
4. Color: Silver
5. Gifts/presents: Shoes
6. Vehicles: Smart Car
7. Tropical Locations: South America
8. College Majors: Sociology
9. Dairy Products: Skim milk
10. Things in a Souvenir Shop: Souvenirs
11. Boy Name: Samson
12. Girl Name: Suzy
13. Movie Titles: Spinout
14. Alcohol: Sake
15. Occupations: Star
16. Flowers: Sunflower
17. Celebrities: Sam Roberts
18. Magazines: Spin
19. CANADIAN Cities: Saskatoon
20. Pro Sports Team: Seattle Super Sonics

Hunka Hunka Burnin Cake

2007-01-08T14:06:00.002-08:00

Elvis on age:
What becomes important as you get older is understanding...
instead of worrying about the things you can't do anymore.

Happy Ho Ho Holidaze!!

2006-12-25T08:37:00.000-08:00

Wishing y'all a very merry holiday season!

And cheers to a rockin' new year!
May it be filled with peace, love and groovy-ness!

A Holiday Meme....
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Hot Chocolate

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Wraps, but leaves ribbons and bows till last minute 'cause cats will eat the ribbon and well...let's not get into what happens next.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
coloured lights

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
would like to, but haven't this year.

5. When do you put your decorations up?
last minute.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
my mom's spinach cannelloni

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child.
we open our gifts at midnight. so when we were kids one of the adults would have to take the kids for a walk so that santa could show up, put the gifts under the tree, down a cerveza and inhale a chorizo.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
when my brother, who is 4 years older, opened the closet door to show my sister and I all of the presents. I musta bin around 8.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
"a" gift?!? ALL of the gifts! hee hee, see 7. Well, the Flores side goes nuts on Xmas Eve as usual and then Jay and I have open our "personal" gifts on Christmas day and then we head for Oshawa for turkey and more presents from the Holz side.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
a mishmash of things we've collected (or bin given) over the years

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
love it up north and in suburbia, but it gets grey and gross in the city.

12. Can you ice skate?
yup. i'm no Elvis Stojko, but i get by.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
a wall clock in the shape of an electic guitar. it has a collage of Black Leather Elvis and the frets read "King Lives", thanks to my sista & the Bruces

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
spending time with family and friends.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
shortbread cookies.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
late late dinner on xmas eve, popping champagne at midnight and opening presents

17. What tops your tree?
a star

18. Which do you prefer giving or Receiving?
giving. especially if i made it myself!

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
Silent Night sung by Elvis or Punk Rock Christmas by the Ramones (depends on my mood)

20. Candy Canes?
yes, please!

Dee Flowered

2006-12-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

We're heading over to Dee & Vince's tonight for the annual Cheers Queers Christmas Party. This year, Dee has forbidden gifts. Only liquids and snacks will be allowed to pass through the front door. But I highly doubt she will be able to resist this...Martin (aka Marty, aka Martin Steve Martin, aka Martino My Bambino) sure couldn't....

Dee Flowered

Dee-squisitive...

Dee-licious!

Dee-vine!

Knit up in some Brown Sheep Burly Spun I picked up at AlterKnits. What a fabulous place to spend an afternoon. The ladies are super friendly and extremely gracious. Thanks for your help with the pattern and the testing of the needles. This was stitched on 10mm. And the yummy handspun merino felted flower comes courtesy of my favourite new haunt, Americo. Merry Christmas, Dee!

Chunky Cotton Candy Keyholes

2006-12-21T22:30:00.000-08:00

A new store opened up a few months ago, dangerously close to my work. Lunch could get very, very expensive. If you have the time, do check it out. Americo Original. This ain't your regular LYS. It's yarn and so much more! Think leather and yarn. You really have to see it for yourself. You'll want to touch everything! I've been going there so frequently lately, that the ladies have invited me to join them with my knitting during lunch. Argentinian handspun, hand-dyed merino is what I've picked up this time.....

Eye Candy

I wanted to gift knit some scarves for my ladies and I found the perfect yarn to knit with - huge! What a win/win situation! And what a quick knit on a pair of Rosewood 15mm! Fionnuala's came first. I started out with 10 stitches. Too wide. Then 8. Still too wide.

Fionnuala in Prototype

Only 6 stitches were required to create these lovely Cotton Candy Keyhole Scarves. Kelley's was knit during Karaoke Knit Night at Spirits. They sure are cozy!

Kelley in Karaoke

So if you're looking for me 'round lunch time, you know where I'll be hangin'. Not only will I be getting in some knitting time, I will also be practicing my Spanish! Hasta luego! (aka chow fer now!)

Cheerful, Friendly, Slightly Assertive, etc.

2006-12-19T22:52:00.000-08:00

This one made me laff!

'cause sometimes I'm a little too social, active and excitement seeking, just maybe not so cheerful or friendly. hmmm...lucky I'm not too assertive!

Your Extroversion Profile:

Cheerfulness: Very High

Friendliness: High

Assertiveness: Medium

Activity Level: Low

Excitement Seeking: Low

Sociability: Low

How Extroverted Are You?

6 weird things....

2006-12-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged by Jacquie!
So I'm passing it on.
Thanks for playing....

THE RULES: Each player of this game starts with the ‘6 weird things about you.’ People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own 6 weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose 6 people to be tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave a comment that says ‘you are tagged’ in their comments and tell them to read your blog.”

Six weird things about mememememe (in no particular order):

1. I HATE ketchup, but I LOVE ketchup chips.
2. I won't go as far as saying that I'm 'afraid' of the dark, but it sure creeps me out!
3. I'm obsessed with knitting. I wanna knit everywhere, all of the time. If only I could knit in my sleep!
4. I have a strange fear of sharks. Doesn't matter if I'm in salt water, fresh water or chlorinated water. I blame the movie, Jaws.
5. As a teen I subscribed to Cycle Magazine. I still wanna own and ride a motorcycle.
6. I really really wish I had super powers, so i could fly, time travel, read minds, fight crime, feed the world, save the world, bring world peace.

You're it ---> Michelle, Wendy, Vic, Yvette, Aleta, Soosan.

Happy Hooker

2006-12-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, I had to say goodbye to my Fleece Artist Goldielocks Triangle Shawl when it was stolen a few weeks back. I was in knit mourning until a very special package arrived at my doorstep (aka mail box) the other day....

a happy note!

Every now and then you meet someone who gets you. Who understands what you're going through. Who cares enough to reach out and grab you and give you a good rock 'n' roll shake!

how cool is this!!

I first met Lisa through the SP8 exchange. For three knitalicious months I was Lisa's secret pal. And since then we've been lucky enough to actually meet in person and even hang out and knit a few times...and soon, if all goes as planned, Lisa will be moving to the GTA!!

How did she know!!?

Thanks Lisa for being so thoughtful, for reaching out, for being so gosh-dang groovy-cool! I can't wait to get hooking!

Meow!

2006-12-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

You are The Empress

Beauty, happiness, pleasure, success, luxury, dissipation.

The Empress is associated with Venus, the feminine planet, so it represents,
beauty, charm, pleasure, luxury, and delight. You may be good at home
decorating, art or anything to do with making things beautiful.

The Empress is a creator, be it creation of life, of romance, of art or business. While the Magician is the primal spark, the idea made real, and the High Priestess is the one who gives the idea a form, the Empress is the womb where it gestates and grows till it is ready to be born. This is why her symbol is Venus, goddess of beautiful things as well as love. Even so, the Empress is more Demeter, goddess of abundance, then sensual Venus. She is the giver of Earthly gifts, yet at the same time, she can, in anger withhold, as Demeter did when her daughter, Persephone, was kidnapped. In fury and grief, she kept the Earth barren till her child was returned to her.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

to infinity and beyond....

2006-11-29T11:34:00.000-08:00

What Kind of Knitter Are You?

You appear to be a Knitting Adventurer. You are through those knitting growing pains and feeling more adventurous. You can follow a standard pattern if it's not too complicated and know where to go to get help. Maybe you've started to experiment with different fibers and you might be eyeing a book with a cool technique you've never tried. Perhaps you prefer to stick to other people's patterns but you are trying to challenge yourself more. Regardless of your preference, you are continually trying to grow as a knitter, and as well you should since your non-knitting friends are probably dropping some serious hints, these days.http://marniemaclean.com
Take this quiz!

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Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

Goodbye Goldie 2

2006-11-27T14:33:00.000-08:00

Goldie 2,

Oh how I will miss you.
I am so glad that we shared so many wonderful moments.
We were so happy.
You were so beautiful, so warm, so cozy.
Why were we torn apart so soon?
I thought that we would be together forever.
Why me? Why us? Why were you taken away from me so suddenly?
No ransom note, no phone call, no idea where you might be.
The world can be such a cruel place and humans can be such assholes.
Tears well up each time I think of you.
Even though the bar was hot, I should have never taken you off.
I should have never put you in my purse.
I thought you would be safe there, with my keys, my wallet, my elvis tissue holder, my lip gloss, my eyelash curler, my glasses.
But it seems that nothing is sacred in this nasty, crooked city.
Wherever you are, Goldie 2, I hope that you are unharmed.
Only time will heal the wounds of heartbreak.
I will never forget you, Goldie 2.
I will cherish you in my heart forever.

Mermaid Mishka and Keyhole Dreads

2006-11-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Mishka needed something woolly. She had recently moved to a groovy new pad and her sweater was still packed away in some gosh-dang box! Then, late one night the Woolly Bully wouldn't stop whispering my name. It teased me from the yarn kitty piling up in the corner. "No", the Unfinished Holiday Projects meowed. "Nooooooooo...!" But I caved. I gave in. I had to. Mishka needed warmth, gashdanggit, and it was startin' to get a-chill outside. I grabbed my 12mm needles and cast on! The yarn was so humongously sweet! And the needles, super-sized! Mishka abso-loved it! The Mermaid Mishka Woolly Jumper. Mishka gladly squeezed us into her schedule for a photo shoot at one of her favorite haunts, The Local Park...

Mishka

And here's Mishka's BFF with a matching accessory. Keyhole Dreads Bully Scarf...

Gili

The gals beam in their Woolly Boolly goodness.

waiting for Oscar

A wonderful day for walk...

looking for Oscar

Thanks to Jaquie and Sophie for the hunka hunka -- gargantuan yarn!

Oscar?!

Fearless Urban Mood

2006-11-21T08:32:00.000-08:00

Injecting the masses with a revitalizing cocktail of hard rock, steamin' soul and heavy hip hop, Easy Way Out hits Clinton's this Friday November 24th for their eagerly anticipated inaugural gig. Da boyz will be kickin' it new school, while debuting their powerful, in-yo-face, 4-song EP. They are smokin'!

All proceeds raised will go towards a full length album.
pssst.... check out of few mighty tunes here.

Putos

2006-11-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

A funny thing happened to me on the way to Jacquie's Knit-togetha last night...

The subway platform at Bloor was packed. I found an empty bench, put down my bag and began to knit. Across from me, a Filipino woman had also put down her bag, but instead of knitting, she had a bag full of Filipino yummies. She was selling them to support the children in the Philippines. I asked what they were and she told me they were Putos. I couldn't help but giggle and tell her that Putos in Spanish is a bad word. She told me to call them filipino muffins instead and that they would go very well with coffee. Ok. And as we chatted waiting for the train, every now and then she would say something in her native tongue. I guess she musta bin saying "Putos, get your putos here!"...the funny part? Well, in spanish puto(s) can mean a variety things, ie fag, queer, f*ck (the adjective). "Fags/queers! Get your effen fags and queers here!" I just couldn’t resist -- I bought two helpings of Putos and got on the effen train!

a few FOs -- In no particular order...

2006-11-12T15:51:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pieces that have recently come off the needles and deserve a little show....

First off -- the drinking knitter's dream! Not that I'm a big drinker by any means! *hick!* But this pattern is truely brainless, and the outcome is simply gorgeous. Having done three this year, it's time for a Goldie break. So glad that Mami loved it! And it "goes" with just about everything she owns.

Mami in Goldie III
Fleece Artist Triangle Shawl in Goldiliocks Piñata

Here's the wonderfully cocky Kassidy in her Silk Sleeves from One Skein. I couldn't decide which picture I liked best! They were all awesome! I had to post at least two!

Please, Titi, can i have some more?

Cool chick gets funk-eh!

Not only do I have a "thing" for yarn and knitting, I also have bead attacks every now and then. I've taken to making these slinky-like bracelets. Beads and memory wire make great gifts! Here's one for my SIL, Tracey, along with her Noro Kureyon Arm Warmers. Happy B-day!

Warm wrists, warm heart

And last, but definitely not least...Carolina in her Lion and Lamb Mixed Berries Clap-o-Cap and warmers. In celebration of Carolyn's b-day we had a delicious dinner and much needed girlie gabfest. You go, G!

Stand back, beeaitches!

A special shout out to Sophie for the Silk Sleeve pattern and Jen for jumping in and knitting a few for the Goldie while I was madly working on my clap. Knit on, sisters!

Life, Truth and Love

2006-11-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8a

(Paul's Ode to Love)

El amor es paciente, el amor es bueno.
Love is patient, love is kind;

El amor no es celoso, no se jacta, no es orgulloso, no es grosero.
Love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude.

Él amor no es egoísta, él no se encoleriza fácilmente,
él no guarda ningún expediente de males.
Love does not insist on its own way; it is not
irritable or resentful;

el amor no se encanta en lo mal sino rejoices con la verdad
it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the truth.

El amor lleva todas las cos, cree todo, espera todo, aguanta todo.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all
things, endures all things.

El amor nunca falla.
Love never ends...

Abuelita Aida Flores

February 15, 1918 - November 10, 2005

High Tea

2006-11-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

A wonderful way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon. Meeting friends over at the Knit Café for High Tea, scrumptious knibbles and needleful knitting. The tea was a delicious blend of lemon and robious and the knibbles! mon dieu! Stuff I didn't even know existed and all of it -- delicious! I can't even begin to explain...please go and enjoy!

I brought a few projects with me: jay's socks of love (I'm just starting the toe of sock 2 - woohoo!); a Hand Maiden scarf kit and these mittens I'd been working on for a g-friend of mine. I thought I would lose my mind when on Saturday, aboard the GO train to Oshawa, I realized that I hadn't packed the pattern! barf! I trudged on and decided I had no choice but to take a break (aka nap). In Oshawa I would be able to surf, find and print. Thanks Frayed at the Edges! thanks mom and dad! But them dang mitts just didn't want to play along. The yarn & needles were not what the pattern called for and my calculations to accomodate didn't seem to work out...so sad...

Evil glint from no good mittens

But glad to see so many gnarly knitters out, chatting, sipping and knitting away. We sat at the table by the window and often felt like monkeys in a zoo. Passersby would stop and stare. Some would even wave and take photographs. One fine gentlemen could not contain himself and poked his head in to tell us how terrific we are all were. What a remarkable site! Kinda like Sully...

Sully shows it off!

Sully blew us all away with her original designs. Gorgeous hats and scarves and sweaters and slippers. "no pattern. copy if you like"...here she is in one of her original cardigans and skirts.

Earlier that day Sophie and Jaquie had explored yarn fantasy land (smiles! everyone smiles!) and came away with some woolly bargain booty, surprising Mel and I with yarny garland goodness that we wore around our necks! When I got home later that day I wondered what it would be like to wake Jay from his post rock n' roll rehearsal slumber with...

gwaaat???

a wacky yarn full o' Woolly Bully in 256. Thanks ladies, I hope to make you proud with my project(s)! I can't wait!

Oh! and I picked up a precious pair of pink-felted-ends 4.5mm. ( I just couldn't resist!) The mittens will be gifted after all...

Bad Mitt Gone Good

Haul-o-ween!

2006-10-31T17:48:00.000-08:00

I'd been concerned with what to wear to this fall's TTC Knit-A-Long III: The Round-Up, and that cat wouldn't lend me her costume. I'm sure that it wouldn't have fit anyway, so I decided to entertain the ladies by making myself a wig and showing up as the King. Who can resist a knitting Elvis. I kinda followed the pattern from this here and picked up some Paton's Boa and a whole hunka stuffing. It was a crazy piece to knit. A quick project between others. The gold lamé-ish wrist warmers were done from some sparkley twine scooped from Lewiscraft.

Long live the King

There was so much to you-dle doo-dle dye for. A true yarn-apalozza!

First Stop -- AlterKnits, 1024 St. Clair. Groovy place. Lotsa room. Yummy snacks. Comfy chairs. Roomy tables and a wall full'o yarn.

After much fondling, fearles leader, Captain Pirate Vivienne, took half of the troup over to Knit-O-Matic while the rest of us stayed behind with KAL Co-Capitain extraordinaire Sophie.

Stop Two: The second half of the rabble decends upon Haley and Kugo (aka Pluto) at Knit-O-Matic...
Haley treated us to some sweet sock yarn. And we tricked ourselves into believing that credit was good. We bid adieu to the fair princesses and kugo, the plutoneon lovebird, and hopped back on transit for Kensington Market. No yarn-tastrophes on the road this year. Although Lilly and her 2 socks-at-a-time sadly parted ways and we waited quite a while for a Bathurst streetcar. Whuddizupwit'dat!? The gals kept busy knitting and then...

Lettuce! Lettuce Knit!
I've been dreaming about a few things I had felt up at Lettuce Knit a little while ago. I took advantage of the passport discount and bagged some Fleece Artist Peter Rabbit, a Hand Maiden scarf kit and Blue Sky Alpaca Brushed Suri in Fudgesicle (to mix with some Pink Lemoade I have resting at home). There was a moment when the sun came out and made out with the sock yarn, I couldn't help falling in love with Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in Black Purl.

The Last Stop -- With a hunk-a-burnin bags full of yarn, we headed to the Red Room -- to drink, dine and dish out some prizes! I was truly honoured to represent the North Team's Best Costume. I also took home the Most Original Knitted Object, a festive shrug kit from Needful. Thank you, thank you very much...

And thanks to all of the kick-ass leaders and local yarn shops for all of their hard work. Congrats on another, incredibly, succesful TTC Kal!

Knit-O-Pals: Lisa, Jacquie and Sophie burn it up at the Red Room.

and I head to my bedroom for a much need nap before preparing for the descent...

Heaven and Hell. Good and Evil. Devils. Demons. Angels and Saints. A spooky fest held by God (Kelley) and Satan (Andre)...God was smokin'!

What a badass bash! With such guests in attendance as Frankenferter, The Wicked Witch of the West. Damian. A Virgin. Pandora's Box. Dorian Gray. Crazy Devil Courtney Love and Angel Kurt Cobain fit right in...

A happy and exhausting halloween it wuzzz! I've removed all traces of mascara, the Elvis wig made an appearance at work and I've got a hunka hunka burnin' yarn flamin' in the corner!

What NOT to Wear

2006-10-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Happy, Happy, Happy Halloween! And so the yearly dilema begins, "What the effen bejeezers to wear?!" To add to the pressure, the TTC Knit-A-Long has announced that costumes are encouraged. So now, not only does this costume have to be comfortable enough to talk n' knit, walk n' knit, shop n' knit, sit n' knit and drink n' knit, but it must be safe enough NOT to get caught between subway doors or under streetcar tracks. And, of course, it must be groovy enough NOT to feel like a complete knob perusing the knit shops around town. Hmmm....how's this.....?

Trick or Treat!

All about Moi! 48 little things...

2006-10-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

1. FIRST NAME?
Sandra, but you can call me Sandi

2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
My second name is Daniela. I was named after my brother Oscar Daniel.

3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY?
I can't remember the last time I actually cried, but quite often I tear up when I think of my gran who passed away last November.

4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
Sometimes. If I'm in a hurry, it's a bit of a mess. I like my "autograph", though!

5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT?
Roast turkey

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Definitley! I rock!

7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL?
I used to write every night, but when I started dating (my now, my husband) I stopped. I tried again this past January, but I'm just not into it.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
No, thanks.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Frosted Flakes! They're GGGGGGReat! But I haven't had any since I was a kid. I can't handle dairy and soy milk/rice milk with cereal suck. Sometimes I'll just knibble on dry granola/oats. I like that.

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
Depends on the shoe. I usually wear zip-up boots or sandals or clogs

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
I've been told that I have a strong personality. Does that mean I'm stubborn? Physically I can't lift too much, but I can pack a punch if necessary. ;-p

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR?
Gelato (chocolate & lemon) or sherbert

14. SHOE SIZE?
Depends on the shoe, but usually a ladies 5

15. RED OR PINK?
Pink! a nice soft pink. no neon!

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
My weight

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
My Abuelita Aida

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Denim skirt, black shirt, black boots

20. LAST THING YOU ATE?
Bonnie's egg salad on a toasted slice of ezikiel bread.

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Billy Idol on Jack FM (the station on at work)

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Purple

23. FAVORITE SMELL?
My hubs, Jay. Sometimes he can smell like a burger! Yum! if he's not around, cinnamon will do.

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
My mom

25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO?
Their sense of humour.

27. FAVORITE DRINK?
Red red wine or a salted rimmed lime margarita

28. FAVORITE SPORT?
Hmmm...are yoga and/or belly dancing considered sport?I used to ski when i was younger and I LOVE watching my neice play hockey!

29. EYE COLOR?
Bedroom Brown

30. HAT SIZE?
since I've cut my hair short, small to medium. I used to be a big head.

31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Yup. And I really dislike it!

32. FAVORITE FOOD?
Is chocolate a food? Pesto chicken pizza on a wheat-free crust with feta, mozzerralla and sundried tomatoes or cajun style catfish

33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Happy endings

35. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Fall

36. HUGS OR KISSES?
Can I have both?

37. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Carob Spelt Cake from the Kensington Bakery

40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING?
Knitting & blogging doesn't leave much time for reading...hmmm...the last book I started was The Birth House

41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Red hot chili peppers. The veg not the band.

42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV?
Entourage, Heros, Without a Trace x 2

43. FAVORITE SOUNDS?
My husband's voice, kitties purring or meowing in a strange way.

44. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES?
John, Paul, George and Ringo

45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME?
Uruguay

46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT?
Singin' & playing guitar. Does acting like a goofball count?

47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Montevideo, Uruguay

48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I was inspired by Lisa and Michelle

Splendid Swap!!

2006-10-19T17:36:00.000-07:00

A most most wonderful package from my Knitter's Tea Swap Secret Pal! I have been super spoiled!!
The Teas: Bentley's Earl Grey Green Tea; Numi's Sweet African Red, Green Rooibos and Chanakara, Seven Chakra Tea. The Yarn: Patons Kroy sock stuff in Purple Heather Mix; Filatura Lanarota, Chaco. 100% Peruvian Virgin Wool; Hollywood Knits in Suss Flake and Suss Glitter. A "Tea Time" notepad for the fridge. A huge pile of awesome patterns. An art cube of Carnival Masks of Venice. Clover Honey Flavoring lollys for tea dippin' and sweetin', three beautiful bars of dark chocolate and a box of Walker's Shortbread Ginger cookies and the most beautiful crocheted flower ever!

Sheri, you sure went all out! Thank you Secret Knitter's Tea Swap Pal. I'm looking forward to making the most out of your generosity. You rock!

Perky in Pink

2006-10-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

I'm off to the Downtown Knit Collective tonight to donate these purty pink tit-bits. Beryl Tsang, designer of said bits, will be speaking and accepting donations of all things knit.

These sweet bits were knit in panda cotton and filled with hypoallergenic, washable poly-stuffing. The daisy nipples I picked up at Fabricland.
And the postcard came curtousy of my newest pal, Lisa (thanks!).
Pick up the pattern here.

Hunka Hunka Burnin' Yarn

All decked out in knit....

Modelling Michelle's Miittens

Bigga Baby Toque

I'm still knitting, i swear

Roses

Sweet Baby Knits

Our Baby Girl

Surprise Surprise Baby Jacket

The Shower - Part One, Blanket of Love

Photo Class

Luke Sports His Knits

For Baby Luke

Go Ask Alice

Happy Balentimes!

Hat Happy

Malabrigo Maternity

Go Ahead, Make My Day!

Creative Blocking

Easy Way Out

Hat Head

King Bunny

Santa Came Early and it was Zen!

Seven More

Le Slouch

Baby Purl

Dwarf!?!?

Happy Halloween!!!

The Bangles

Another Happy Anniversary

The Internals

Bootie Call

do not post

Stitch n' Pitch

YoYo Shoulder Shrug

Swoon

Thank God!

Papi's B-day and the Little Black Shrug

Fabulous Floribundas

If I Can Dream...

The Big Reveal

TTC KAL...A day in pictures...

Brooklyn in Americo!

Warrant Officer Bruce on Parade

Sista Sox & KO Jewels

Isn't she lovely....

KIP on the TTC - Saturday June 9th

Yarn Birds

SP Strikes Again!

Dusk and Sangria

What Jay Said...

It seems that the hubs wasn't quite pleased enuf with my anwers to

The Interview

Black Pearl Sockette To 'Em

Memedy-meme

Eff Freakin Oh!

Viva Secret Pal!!!

I *heart* Mom

Correction

Birthday Jay

Birthday Hoopla!

Rebel, Rebel

Happy B-day to me...

Grassyass!

Nerd!

the Pal

Kitty Pup

Guerilla Feet

Spreading Rumours

Secret Pal 10 - The Questionnaire

Chit Chat

Bonnie Lass

Bloomin' Spoiled

Blob-a-versary

Happy BalentiMes!!

Wasn't that a Party!

Abuela Dinora

Chimera

Klassic D Day!

Gifty Knits

I heart Mom