Cathies blog

A Meme

2009-05-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

I found this on SomeBunnysLove and thought I ll do this!
65 Questions You’ve Probably Never Been AskedYou know the rules. Tag people in this note (including the person who tagged you!) to learn more about people. Also, try to tag people whom you have tagged in other notes. Sometimes you learn things in new notes that you did not know about them before.
1. First thing you wash in the shower? My hair

2. What color is your favorite hoodie? Blue

3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again? Always

4. Do you plan outfits? Yes

5. How are you feeling RIGHT now? Mellow

6. What is the closest thing to you that’s red? My sons Tee shirt,it suits him.

7. Describe the last dream you remember having? I was trying to remember if I milked the cow on time and if I did .....

8. Did you meet anybody new today? Nope

9. What are you craving right now? Umm… Cup of tea!

10. Do you floss? Nowhere near I should.

11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage? Racehorses

12. Are you emotional? I try not to be but I do cry if others are too!

13. Have you ever counted to 1,000? Not yet but I knit and love lace

14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it? I nip it and savour the flavour

15. Do you like your hair? I do most of the time,theres more greys appearing day by day though,I hate that

16. Do you like yourself? Most of the time I do; but I want to improve in a lot of ways.

17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush? No,well yes, if I could do that what other stuff could I be doing

18. What are you listening to right now? Some crap my boys Friend has pulled up on the computor next to me

19. Are your parents strict? Obssesivley so,I couldnt use the phone even when I was 2o

20. Would you go sky diving? God no,why would I jump out of a perfectly good plane?

21. Do you like cottage cheese? No

22. Have you ever met a celebrity? Yes ,Dick Smith and his family,I milked the cow with my Brother,my Mum separated it for the cream while I made the scones when Dick visited our Shearing Shed in the 80's

23. Do you rent movies often? Yes when theres a good one to see

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you are in? Spiderwebs

25. How many countries have you visited? none

26. Have you made a prank phone call? No,indignantly

27. Ever been on a train? Yes — in Perth going out to the Show

28. Brown or white eggs? Both,theyre the same

29.Do you have a cell-phone? Yes

30. Do you use chap stick? Yes a nice bland one from Woollies

31. Do you own a gun? Not anymore, probably in the future I will again.

32. Can you use chop sticks? Nope

33. Who are you going to be with tonight? Knitting with the boys being noisy and Fluffa getting ammorous with my Uggies...

34. Are you too forgiving? It depends,I like happiness around me but can be upset at the ignorance of others,time can heal but memories are forever

35. Ever been in love? Yes — truly, madly, and deeply.

36. What is/are your best friend(s) doing tomorrow? Unpoacking after being away building their new house

37. Ever have cream puffs? Oh yeah… YUM!

38. Last time you cried? Saturday Night

39. What was the last question you asked? "how can I focus on what Im writing with that racket"

40. Favorite time of the year? Autumn so I can get my warm woollies out that Ive made

41. Do you have any tattoos? No but Hubby has on his arse,my name....

42. Are you sarcastic? Yes I can be but try not to be

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect? Yes

44. Ever walked into a wall? Not yet

45. Favorite color? Heaps but like pale pink blue peacock blues greens and rich purples

46. Have you ever slapped someone? God no,they might hit me back!!

47. Is your hair curly? No, but it does have a curly effect if layered as it is now...

48. What was the last CD you bought? Avenged Sevenhold

49. Do looks matter? Yes, but only for my tastes.

51. Is your phone bill sky high? I expect one to be, as Son 1 had a brief interlube,hes paying even if I have to hock his new moto

52. Do you like your life right now? Hmmm,ask me in August and again at Xmas

53. Do you sleep with the TV on? No

54. Can you handle the truth? Have to deal with sometimes

55. Do you have good vision? sort of,old age catching up,need glasses for fine work,headaches otherwise

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people? No but I do have lists....

57. How often do you talk on the phone? Daily

58. The last person you held hands with? Hubby I was trying to get away

59. What are you wearing? My sons old grandpa shirt me never wore,trackies and uggies

60.What is your favorite animal? wont say,I love my Bunny and JR,real charactors

61. Where was your default picture taken? Xmas Tree Kambalda 08

62. Can you hula hoop? LOL nope

63. Do you have a job? yes a Gov one,nice and safe

64. What was the most recent thing you bought? Hot Chips Gravy and milk shakes for 2 boys, hot Choc (with cream for me) and ham,tomato and cheese sambos for me too, cost $35

65. Have you ever crawled through a window? Yes

There ,done,I wont tagg anyone but feel free to do it anyway!!

Ive been very quiet,getting lost on Ravelry,Ive decided Ill blog when I feel like it.

My sons latest addition

Easter 09

2009-04-12T22:11:00.000-07:00

Well its another year and another Easter,I didnt lash out and buy heaps of choccy for the family this year and I havent really done so in the past as well,I reckon from the beginning that with 5 boys that money would always be an issue.A simple single giant egg was what I always got and so far thats all they expect even though their friends have Mums who have fallen for the commercised era of gifts and expensive ones at that.

I ve tried unsuccessfully to relax this 4 day break but the fears of what lays ahead has arrisen especially at night.I feel Im looking for solitude more and more ,though the family just thinks Im either selfish dont love them anymore or plain just dont get whats on...
Today,the last day I finally feel a bit more relaxed,Ive done afair bit of spinning,nearly up to the next pattern stage of the lovely swallow tail pattern, fingers crossed I have enough wool.On top of this Ive finished 2 pairs of socks for the firefighters and one adult size SES beanie.On the list for these holidays in the terms of time rather being at home, on leave yeah right,I have 2 child size beanies ,SES ones(the adult one was very large), and Kogo Beanies which Im going to find a an aran pattern and knit up what they sent,yucky acrylic but hey it was donated..with the thicker doubled yarn at least it will knit faster as Im behind in these charity knit projects...
Off to Toodyay next month,5 weeks and counting,I hope to have at least my first swallow tail done so I can wear it,a new bag for my Victoria Louet Wheel after the Rodent had managed to eat a fair portion of its base,I still love him though!
I haven't any piccies of projects as yet but will endevour this week..
On the up side, have to add something ,hey, otherwise its boring!!Our car has had a new coat of paint and is looking swishy,Im taking extreme car,B has waxed it and polished the old dear,put new batteries in the remotes,she under cover and behind the flash new gates that are also remote controlled.Read that? remote gates,I hit the open button as I approach the haouse and the door grind open ,I drive in and hit the button again even before I turn on the key and I inside out of the weather,the rabbit hasnt worked it out yet and the dog is amused.One of Bs toys that I actually enjoy playing with!! On the other hand it means Ill have to ride or walk to work as much as possible and Im so afraid of damaging the new paint work!!Have a gecko here and check out the number plate again...

And just for the beauty of nature this gorgeous dragonfly landed just in time for me to capture him on camera,these a bit rare around here,the last rain has brought a few interesting insects out,hope we get some more rain soon!

This is the last of the Jarob Farm corrie that Im just spinning up now.The last 4 batts I carded with some nylon for sock strength,I should be knitting them up ina week or two.These are destined to be on display at the Southern Cross Show,Im aiming to enter a few things this year too,havent made a definite list yet but have some ideas,Im hoping there ll be sufficient catagories.Another lady I was talking to last year was enthusiastic about doing something this year too so Id like to give her some competition!! Friendly of course!!!!
Anyhow heres to our wee Bilby,one of my fav native Aussies,I really love them all but heres the occasion to greet these little blokes!!!

Our Trip

2009-03-20T02:28:00.000-07:00

Wave Rock 2

The road to the the rock...

Thas was fantastic smooth dirt, all weather road ,very well maintained and not a problem for our Car,meaning no corragation!!

The flowers I found at both Frog Rock and Wagin,in secluded spot near water holes,they looked hardy and were probably a callistemon or maybe a melalucca .

This our Chalet at Wave Rock,very roomy, I cant believe how quiet it was there,perfect to unwind.

These buildings were spread out next to a salt(gypsum) lake where there were small sail boats for hire(we d bring our own cannoes next time) The resort is still under developement with a couple areas obviously half "built",we spent some time trying to determine what they were hoping to finish.On reading the information bits on the obligatory coffee table,we found out the whole Wave Rock and Resort area was developed and continued to be by a group of land owners whos aim was to increase tourism to the area and provide employment for the locals. Good on them,its encouraging to see people getting out there to help their community.

Oh and thats Mums socks from Jane from Moseley Parks Fibre Club 09!!

I finished them just before reaching Wagin so I didnt get many other photos and we were a bit late so didnt stop anywhere on the road. Im really pleased with these though,very thick and should be great for Mum as they dont really have much heating at their house( I should know after spending 4 days in the middle winter there)

My Paddy sitting on the lip of Wave Rock,he was waiting for Sam, Ben and myself,to tell us that Dad and Hew had walked off to see the Hippos Yawn,Id had enough by then,it was 11 oclock and the bakery was calling,lol,it was a fair hike over the other side the rock anyway especially with Sam having fallen earlier and gashed his leg.

Anyway I managed to get a couple of sheepie photos,actually I felt an idiot doing this,Ive grown up with sheep and cattle,also goats and to run around clicking the woolly aspect of the show raised some eyebrows,one lady was obviously amused.So was I when Ben asked "how do you tell thats a boy,Mum?", hmm well after pointing the gigantic appendages he was all set,Sam was agog when a black suffock ram decided to use his ahem, item to scratch his front leg! And I was about to take the photo too....no I refrained,waited til he was more photogenic!!

Heres the black Suffock and white version..

And of course the ones Id come to admire and get a fleece or two from!!!Didnt catch which stud but there some big boys there!!!The owners of the fleece,I bought,the Rintoul Family, were from the Auben Valley Merino Stud which I believe was based on the Pooginook Bloodline near Jerilderie,NSW.The rams were the nicest boys Id seen for a while!!

And of course we couldnt leave without seeing the BIG Ram of Wagin which the boys reluctantly posed in front with Mum...

And of course me trying to get the haul into the back of the van,the boys were not happy having to share their olifactory space with a stinky gost fleece and a sheep on the way home!!!Yes I did add a gorgeous bag of angora to my purchases but more on that and the Fleece next post!!

As Usual

2009-03-13T16:10:00.000-07:00

Well,I have no excuse for not updating,it started when the awful fires went through Victoria,I found I couldnt put words down,couldnt sit and ponder as I normally do,there is a draft for a meme that I just didnt get back too,maybe today!

Since I last posted Ive managed to spin heaps,finish a few small items,a couple of kid dramas,trips to specialists etc and believe it or not!!!!!we also managed to get away for a weekend trip to the Wagin Woolarama,Sheep,my dears,loads of big and varied woolly and non Woolly kind,Hubby also saw steak on legs,I believe Ive never seen him veer off direction so fast,ahem I shouldnt talk,I saw woolly goats and I went the opposite direction....the poor boys,sitting for hours to be dragged around looking animals and waiting to talk to the owners..Well they did get to go bush driving with Dad ,with me going crook about my car and its new tires,boys and a sandy bush track....

We left at 8.30 on the Friday,I took that day off as Ive been ill with something yet to be checked ,suspicious of what it is but I wont go into it here...we went straight into Kal as Hubby had checked The Tires the day before and declared at least two were baldy enough to be illegal,hello!!!Id been telling him for weeks or more that we had to look into tires,no he went and bought the mechanics for his self opening gates ....
Anyhoo,we got the tires fitted,left Kal came all the way home to pick up the bits we forgot,important stuff like credit cards,gave me an opportunity to check oldest son again as hed had a nasty gash to his head the night before,he refused to go with us on this epic weekend,it really needed stitches but the Nurses Station was shut and the stupid Health Line was useless...
We got to Southern Cross at about 2 ish,had the most god awful hamburger,(Id been hanging for one at Merriden) talked to mates at the tire service there,Porridge booked a spot to learn to spin at the Southern Cross Show in a few months....

Anyhow,he recommended we check out Frog Rock up the road, a short cut off the tourist road sort of thing!!

It was fantastic,we have sort of worked out there are rocks everywhere in WA,Check out the map I added!!

Frog Rock near Southern Cross

It was a warmish day and all over the rock surface were lizards,(Ornate Dragons,) sunning themselves,the boys were beside themselves and spent a marjority of their time trying to catch at least one,it was hilarious watching them sprinting after these lizards who were much fsater on their back legs!!!! Boys ,nil,Lizards, heaps!!

Me ,I tried to find the frogs making the noises in the sheltered little ponds dotted all over the crevise areas...

Wave Rock,Hyden

We stayed at the resort at Wave rock and it was the best one we have ever stayed at,it wasnt finished but there was heaps of room and could accomodate at least 7 to 8 people,a bathroom to swing a cat in,quiet to the point the crickets and birds were audible but no car sounds at all! The kitchen was great,the living areas was equally so and in short we loved it, even though our stay was short.

The man made wall around the top of the rock was designed to to catch water for the local water supply and still supplements the towns supplies,the whole time we were there was spent on the rock checking out the rock formations etc,It was well worth the trip and even being late to get to Wagin.The best part of this trip was the fact we werent really fussed on time,w just drove around...the bake shop at Hyden was wonderful too,yummy brekky there before we headed off.

I liked the fact it was quiet and there werent a heap of people roaming everywhere,enough to show it was a fav stop for tourist like us though. We plan more trips like this in the future and hope to go again to Wagin and towards Mt Barker and Albany.We still looking at farming areas to buy a farm of some kind and we wont know until we do go and have a look!!!

Ill be back with Part 2 later...

Australia Day 09

2009-01-25T20:19:00.000-08:00

We went to the local pool where the Aussie Day Celebrations were held this year,wasnt much brekky left by the time the boys went through the line up! Its was great to see so many people.it coming up to be real stinker of a dya,I left the boys and walked over to the school (bugger got a blister from the thongs!) it was dry and a lot was dying from the heat this weekend so I satyed there and watered for an hour.

Heres our crowd,my boys and a friend captured the whole family!!

A Long weekend

2009-01-23T20:49:00.000-08:00

I must apologise for the somewhat disjointed last post,I reread it last night and thought I couldve done a better job, never mind maybe I get it right this time,LOL

Thank heavens its a 4 day break for me,not that Im doing that much hand craft,its more reorganising this hovel,I have to do something about the box's of fibre and yarn residing in abnormal spots.We bought a Futon yesty that hopefully the bunny wont eat(too much).Its bright rd in a false suede sort of stuff and will give me nightmares later keeping it clean but hoping to get a Day cover for it(Tilly loves to sleep on it and boy I didnt realise how much hair a dog can lose in one day)

I also bought a nice rug in blues and at last i feel more mentally comfortable sitting in the lounge room. Later I'm going to shift the sewing cabinet around so it while more accessible too....

I have me eye on another couple of fleeces too and have to figure where to hide them from the male eyes in the house, oh excuse me 3 fleeces, a white corrie,a moorit(Ive spun some up before from that seller and its gorgeous even if it was a bit doggy in character) and a finn fleece,LOVE finn,I remember theres a washed fleece hiding in abox near the freezer...

Anyhoo,Ive finished the ISE& Scarf and am very happy,have a couple of things to add and its in the mail Wednesday,cant do it Tuesday as I have a meeting to attend in Kal and have to grab H... school shirts too,$35 each,what a rip off, well it is a college rather than a normal High School.I m also knitting the last ball of that bunny top that I spun from Ixchel Fibres (Charly) ,Im feeling lazy to add a link so check last post.

We ve said goodbye to any sort of holiday,everyone is running scared of the economic situation and no one is safe when you look at what happened in Raventhorpe , near Esperance.BHP have interests here too and I'm wondering if they ll be cutting back here too.Theres a lot of people glad they went to gold but they aren't that safe as alot of gold mines shut before. Its scary and thats why i keep telling myself Ive stock piled all those fleeces and yarn! Im trying to support my LWS as she ll be having rough time too.She pointed out what shes selling on sale yesty so I thought Id better stock up,well I got the makings of a Gnome...

This year Im going to venture out to the big breakfast with the boys, where the local shire is holding it over East Kambalda I believe,most probably Ill be bored silly and want to come home to do stuff,I dont eat that sort of bacon and egg breaky but Im becoming a hermit when not working so thought Id better do something,other than that I wont be so tired being as I said a 4 day break!!

And just for the sake of a bit of colour heres "some of my new stash"..oops its big picture,didnt check settings..

And one Im currently knitting up for the sake of doing something, and one I just loved,theres heaps more but I wont put them up, already added them on Ravelry

A Lazy Day

2009-01-17T21:51:00.000-08:00

Its been hot here,it was 45' in Kal last Monday but only 33 out here at 5 o'clock that arvo,it cooled a bit after that but has gotten hotter again.Not liking that as I have to rake and mow the whole school grounds for preparation for the return of staff etc in the next few days. A bit at a time,watering first up tomorrow and a bit of lawn work here and there and we ll have it beat though..

I'm about 1/4 way through the ISC7 scarf.I'm using the Machinewash 8ply in gorgeous dark red, I thought it was a bit rough to feel but after knitting an angora /merino mix (Ixchel Fibres handspun)

I suppose I couldn't expect anything else.Its grown on me as Ive gotten into it,I actually knit one ball in a sitting which for some is nothing but for my busy life where I'm squeezing in spinning as well its great!

I'm using the Palindrone Pattern and its the second Ive done,very effective and very easy.

On the spinning front Ive nearly finished a stash bag of crossbred/finn fleece I washed lightly and carded,about half a kilo,it seemed very rough but after I knitted a wee bit up last night,cross eyed as it was quite late,Im surprised how much softer it is,obviously not merino but passable as a vest or even heavy socks for winter (a bit itchy I reckon for other times).

My Dad is still quite ill and having more treatment soon and as he was disappointed in not getting handspun socks I'm getting this crossbred done today and going through my fibre boxes to find the last of the BFl and spinning that up.Posted on Ravelry that I wasn't sure of a colour way and Mandie suggested red and black,I'm already swinging towards mushroom,black broken with alpine,might do two lots and see then.Dad has told Mum hes taking his new socks to Sydney to wear them to see the docs,Id love to fly over to see him,surprise him etc,he cant talk clearing and gets a bit cranky but I thought I could at least just keep him company and Id take some sock knitting,be nice if it was his socks..

Poor Mum shes got start the pump and keep watering the garden etc ,it might not sound much but its not good for an older person..at least shes got the chooks and dog to keep her company.

The latest purchase from Ixchel Fibre,Charley has been very busy and im eyeing s few of these,love the wallaby one, cant remember the other names but check them out,yum in a big way!!!

Mandies been busy too and they sold out sooo quick!!! Really want to try some sea cell...pennies I have to keep reminding myself!!!!

On the knitting front Ive stalled on the top down Smoothie,I don't like the sleeves, they narrow down too quick,thinking of ripping back and knitting straight before flaring out for cuff...not afraid to rip back now,usually i just throw it in the corner and get to it later but its such a fun knit and mindless at that,something Ive needed lately...my form of a holiday!! Take alook at the sleeve photo and its obvious,also Im not happy with the undersleeve and if I loosen up the clingy sleeve it may sit better.

Sock knitting Ive gotten only the heel to toe for the cable socks I was working on,during the holidays I carried my little bag around on my wrist while watering and got heaps done,plants got a good water too,didn't shift until I got the 4 row repeat done,only 5 repeats to do on Friday...Picies when finished..

Here a few flowers I collected after I cut back afew things,too good to throw I brought them back inside,lovely grevilleas and one peace rose!!

A new Year

2009-01-03T16:21:00.000-08:00

The Silly Season is nearly over well for me, my work has been casual and not demanding but the real work starts this week,I expect tradesmen to appear...I did work out that my next RDO is the Friday before the Australia Day long weekend so Ill have potentially 4 days off,yippee,a lot can be achieved in that time!!

I will if I can, do a couple of hours on the Monday as I have a few sensitive projects that wont survive and I owe 4 hours anyway!!

Hubby is temptorarily back in work and the employment people are ringing everyone on their books as the contracts are about to be realised for the lucky few now that the "Silly Season is over (and the Stock Exchange will back in business,We can only hope!)

Hubby is home today and by golly he is becoming, as my boos said about her own other half "anal " about the back lawn,cant believe it!! hes mowed it several times this last few weeks,normally he believes in waving a few dollars to snare a kid to do it!!!! I think with a house full of teens sleep seems a bit more important,LOL

Ive been spinning heaps,did a two bobbins yesty of pink and black,I want to order another 400 grams of these colours to have enough to make a tee or vest or whatever,I'm determined to destash the fibre stash into yarn stash,i get all excited when I check whats bee building that the choice of what to start first is simply too much!!

I'm in the ISC7 and have two patterns picked but unfortunately Cheryl's in Boulder is shut for another week and I wont get in there for a while .I'm using this time to finish off a couple of projects anyway.

The top down Sweater from "Knitting Pure and Simple" in Smoothie Dk the pink orangery colourway

A scarf using s reversible cable method in Charleys (from Ixchel Fibres) Bunny merino mix that I managed to spin over a couple of days at Chrissy.This 2 ply ( wanted to navajo ply but it would have yeild much less yardage) is the softest yarn I have ever felt ,its simply Divine and I can see a few taking up residence during the year! Hubby's looking /seeing fibre/yarn everywhere!!!!! hes declared that the office he suggested in the future shed will not be big enough and hes betting his left n*t that the entertainment centre he supposed to be building will also become a storage point,Ive promised no fibre but I cant say afew mags and books wont sneak in there....

My dad was very happy with his socks but thought they were handspun,I feel guilty that I haven't done a pair with his health not as good and losing a lot of weight I resolve to spin up some of the last bits of BFL and hand dye it for a pair just for him.Mum will be receiving a air of finger mittens out of that moorit I spun a few months ago. i spun the last lot of BFL on the Roberta but this time i might use the traddie!

On that subject I had a brain wave,I'm going to get Mum to post my old Traddie over so I can repair it,Dad apparently broke something trying to dismantle it,I may have to get a new wheel if the balance is out too much but Hubby reckons it should be ok glued,hes a whizz on woodwork so it should be all good

Im waiting for a largish order of PeachesNcream Cotton from the states,i broke and ordered some,a heap in avariety of colours,Ill be getting abit more later.This is part of my "fill a gift" box so I don't get caught short this year with the Australian Swappers Bday Swap and other little celebrations through the year.i have my eye on some colours that are swirly lemon/white,pale pink/white and few others.Found a great free washcloth site,its on the other compuot so will

link it here when next Im on.

Ive joined Mandie over at EGMTKs Fibre Club and also Jane at Moseleypark as well,I just love fibre parcels and is an intersting way to try different things as well,not knowing whats in the parcels is also fantastic!

I aim to refill my coffers of other fibres too this year if $ allow,Im nealy out of Shetland and BFL, with wants including some Icelandic and Norwegian top ,oh and some Gotland ,found a ripper spot to purchase but have to wait to sort out other stuff first!!

Lastly my New Years resolve,first and foremost to organise my fibre/yarns,knit up a few pieces for Mum and Dad

and have a positive outlook and NOT let anyone under my skin this year
build up an art box,I have some water colours,charcoals,and oils, next is a decent box and brushes and then Ill be off!!
there, three easily I hope things I can acheive,lets see how I go!

A Great New Year and A Properous and Happy one to you all!!

Christmas Eve 08

2008-12-23T20:37:00.000-08:00

Wow didn't this year go fast,I found it a bit stressfull both at work and the normal I guess bits that come raising 5 sons, girlfriends and all..

I made a concerted effort not to mention work about half way through the year,it was not nice to find out who your friends were and the lack of support..the end of the year was a lot better with my confidence given a boost with roles given to me by senior staff and their visions for next year.My apologies to those I lent on for a bit of moral support,you know who you are and Ill be eternally grateful for that!

I managed to complete a few Christmas goodies for friends,

Voodoo Wrist warmers in Merino Heirloom,pale pink
Spring Hat in handdyed Inca,sorry no photos
another Hat for wearing with long hair,again no photos,white Inca
Socks in Cleackheaton Naturals,beige colours in the Campfire pattern for Dad
A cotton washcloth for a work friend
a Quilted bag from a Home spun mag, gorgeous pattern a easy pattern that looks wonderful!

I used half a metre of each fabric but had to cut outside into two pieces to make the flower go in the right direction,would like to make another!!

A close up of the details I added.

I loved this pattern,Campfire! So apparently did Dad but he hadnt tried them on when I talked to Mum!

Currently sitting and waiting for job replies for Hubby,his mine shut a few weeks ago,cant remember if I posted here,its been awhile..promises are hanging but its presumed nothing will happen til after the holiday break anyhow

At least hes mowed the lawn a few times cleaned up the backyard and thank G.. I work,thats my peace,LOLOn the spinning front I have a gorgeous bundle from Ixchel Fibres, Bunny fluff and merino,havent done much spinning for a couple of weeks but have now till Sundy off so I hope to do a bit with the Regal Fluff. Ill be going into work Friday to water though,have to make up a few hours after I took Tuesday off,so tired,the thought of Crissy wasnt even exciting.I was given the idea that had the other person not be working I couldnt take that day,bit unfair considering Ive the last two Christmases on my own...couldnt add to that but Im being a good girl and not bringing work here...

Hubby bought me a devine eternity ring last week,five diamonds for five sons,its a cool antique style,love it...Had the opportunity to try on my finger an Arglye Pink Diamond worth an astonishing $10 000.. apparently they only expect to mine the pinks(not sure about other colours) for another two years,if you have one look after it ,it ll be worth a mint!!

Ill be back with piccies...Edited

Piccies and later I post about my gift this year,LOL

A Cool weekend

2008-11-16T01:17:00.000-08:00

I mean cool,and certainly happy that Fluffa didnt get shorn last week! Drizzly rain and cool wind.The temp was 16 on the kitchen window so it would hav ebeen cooler out!! Fluffa fluff was stuck everywhere,giggle,and he wanted to come indoors much to Tillys disgust!

And with all this lovely cool weather? I havent picked up sticks or spun at all,weell I was in Kal yesty getting some Xmas shopping done and a suit for my son for his grad from year 10,nice classy black one with a gorgeous microfibre shirt and lovely two tone satin pink tye just because his partner is wearing pale pink. Have to organise a Corsage yet. The drama of the day convincing him to try a pair of normal dress shoes, not the pointy ones that are so popular just normal ones.."NoMum I aint wearing those gay shoes" was the firm response and after a tense ten minutes(Son No 1 was on the phone wanting me to get to bike shop to get a rather expensive half link chain for his new pushy, 2 minutes before shop closed and I was ten minutes from there rr Kids!!anyhoo,mum won and the shoes came home to be glared at..Photos when the big occasion comes up.....
And today I just chilled and did as little as possible as I have a busy week ahead.

Ive picked the patterns for the teachers gifts but have to finish Dads Campfire socks first,knit in some bargain Cleckheaton Country Naturals, a sandy colour for $2 a ball,they hada lovely dark royal blue this week for same price but resisted,wished I had grabbed some,Mum would have liked them...
Teachers gifts are...( Im picking 3 of these)
VoodooWrist Warmers
Princess Mitts
Cabled Fingerless
Symmetrical Braided Gautlets
Spring Beret
I did think about another pattern on Ravelry that buttons under the pony tail and may do it yet.I visited Wool shop yesty and bought 2 balls of Sensation in pal blue and 4 balls of Heirloom 8ply in ice pink which i think may go to Sams Aide as wrist armers as she also sits in the cold watching hockey etc so thought she may appreciate them,they'll be done after Dads socks.
Im off,have to get things ready forthe week ahead!

2008-11-03T22:45:00.000-08:00

Tuesday...

I was taking today off as a true sicky as I have the flu with bad ears etc but my assistant is off for rest of week with a nasty condition so I had to go to work...5.30am...I got to pay ten bucks for a nice luncheon however, put on by the office staff and a $5 entry in a sweep which I have no idea which horse I drew! I practically sat alone,couldnt hear much anyway,LOL but I think I somehow looked a tad out of the water with my work clothes among the nicer outfits adorning several/most staff..... Im hoping the red dust in my hair didnt show..I know there was some dry bottle brush flowers, found tghem after when I got home,ha ha ha!!

I feel crap but the light on the horizon is that finally Ive started that Top Down cardigan from Pure And Simple in Smoothie DK, the red orangey grey varigated colour!! Im about 2 inches into it and loving it. Smoothie although and an acrylic,yucky,I know but I figured bugs wont touch it and it may be just right for those days where a light cover would suffice...piccies a bit further down the track!!

Im still looking at that Polwarth /silk top,only two batts,come on girly get it done!! Crikeys,you can start that chocolate fleece and the shawl with the polwarth.....

The Swap item is done a dusted,need to wrap and post tomorrow...

Ok am off to wash that dust and flowers out,heads going round and round..have docs shortly to sign off on that Worker comp thingy,boy not doing that again, do the right thing and get backstabbed AND get a phone call from a "long lost boyfriend" who was sent my medical certificate for some reson at Curtin Uni,took him a week to work out the birth date was wrong,talk about invasion of privicy ,he has ALL my medical and personal details to do with this claim.I got a message on phone for an apology....

Wednesday..

Im still here ,had another godawful day,dont know why, it was great,had the gardens to myself but somehow feel Ive stepped on toes somewhere? or something,just didnt feel welcome ,maybe Im reading something thats not there.I really like one new staffy,hes up front and with some wonderful ideas for the students,hope hes here next year!! Theres some interesting plans afoot,I made amistake of mentioning a couple to offsider and was poo- parred, Im learning not to say anything,keep 'em guessing!!!

Anyway got home and had a brief visitor and she left me this and box of Choccies as thankyou for helping with a difficult assignment,that was reallly nice after a Sh**t of a day,thanks B!!

A close up!!!
I rarely get roses....and I definitely feel better now!!

Howdy!

2008-10-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

I missed last week,Ive gotten down to posting every weekend so missing the last was not good...

Friday we had a massive storm pass through dumping a heap of rain which promtly run off so not as much soaked in as I hoped though where it did the lawn here at home has surged forward,hmm have to coerce a kiddly wink to do it this weekend..

This storm carried or should I say threw a pile of hail at us too but not enough to damage my car bugger,need that paint job, but alot of others were hit hard. Knocked a big tree down at school and an eave caved in with the wind etc. Son no 2 was caught walking home from the shops while I was shopping,he reckons he learnt quickly not to walk near tin rooves houses as the hail bounced off and hit him.He was drenched and covered in welts by the time he got home!

This last Friday(my day off) was also quite damp with lovely drizzly rain,not sure how much but looking at the water holes, must have been around 30 to 40 points? I spent the day in Kal waiting for my car to have a make over at the window tint place after the twits that did the door up put a tinted (black almost) window,Hubby thought we might as well get the whole car done though a lighter shade.So I spent the day trying to do the little jobs like paying bills and Xmas laybys,I got a bit wet so the hair was frizzed a bit. Dont think the lady behind me in the bank queue was very happy when I shook my head to get rid of the drops like a pooch.....OOps.

Best part I managed to find two tops,in different colours so I can be reasonably dressed for Son No 2s Year 10 Grad.He wants a lime green tux.....The worst was finally getting my car back and getting to the lovely Chezs shop in Burt st on the way home to find I couldnt for the life of me remember waht I wanted..too tired,bast daylight saving.Im on a quilting run at moment, so came out with 5m of white homespun to start that 30s quilt I bought a pile of the appropriate fabric squares for,and 8 balls of Smoothie in this colour Col 2018 (already have the dark red) for another top down cardie from Knitting Pure And Simple that I got from South Seas Knitting. They dont show the pattern I bought ,maybe sold out but theres a few new ones Id like to acquire for stash..

Other shopping included some from the Kal Woolies,out here in Kambalda our meat is now packed in Perth in containers pumped with meat oxygen,yuck and totally unnaturel for me so stocked up in town for at least a fortnight. I have to stick to a menu now to make it last though I can still buy sausages etc here...the fruit and vegies were a lot better in there too so got a few bits there as well.

Im nearly done with the last batt of handdyed polwarth/silk,want to start the lovely corrie I have carded with silk too,a lovely chocccy colour,carding it has blended the colours more evenly so the garment will look better for it. I recieved the lastes fleece from Mosely Park too,gorgeous Finn X,currently washing ti ready to store til I finish the choccy fleece. If I can keep up the pace I will have something to show for it by Winter.I know Im coming down with a bug from the kids which has been going around for at least a month,very slow to pick up but a real bugger to get rid of according the teens of the house!

On my list this week if I can remeber is to order a few things from Bendigo, I got a new pattern and cotton sample card a couple of weeks ago and would love to makethe top on its cover in the dewmelon(I think) colur and from the main stock, some 12ply Classic in tuscan for that cardie/jacket for Mum. hopefully before sale ends...

Oh one more project off the list,a wee baggy to add to the swaps parcel in the 100gram swap on Ravely,two fat quarters

And the finished product,cant find a link for the designer but will edit later when I do! I did it in an hour or so and its on the to do again list as its simple fast and very Giveable!

Inside...

I must go,my right arm is killing me,RSI, backs good but this arm bit is not, not, not good,it sometimes feels like the muscle is pulling away from the bone in the upper part.Ive had this happen before on my left shin bone as a result of ReeTaeKwondo training and boy its not nice!!

Hey Hey hey,rollin rollin...

2008-10-18T02:03:00.000-07:00

Im listening to Big and Rich so thats where the heading come from...

Now for some piccies...PS please ignore that fudgey bit in the corner,no idea it was that way when I took the photos...

First I finally finished the hand sewing on Mums quilt for her Bday,posted it Friday,a week late but hopefully he ll love it as Dad forgot the big day and was grumpy with her as well!! Wish I could have had a bunch of flower sent too! This a very eeasy peesy slash and sew top!Here's the close of the fabrics I used,theres 12 blocks with 6 different fat quarters(2 of each I think). This would easily make up to a double bed topper depending on the width of the border.I quilted in the ditch and I admit that it could have been abit neater but Im happy with it.Theres no quilting in the border as I wanted it to be a softer cuddly quilt. The one I did for my Nan a couple of years ago was done and it was abit stiff for my liking. It was one of those patterns where you cut 2 1/2" strips, numbered them, then sewed them together following a sequence.Mine was a heart! Gorgeous and dint take a photo,hopefully when Nana leaves us the vultures will let me have it back!

DHusbies lovely celery, and other bits like carrots and so on.With the economic troubles, we hoping to be abit more sustainable in the veggie patch,capsicums are often around the $10 a kilo mark here in Summer.Several Nickel mines have closed or mothballed and others are cutting back on staff and DH is a LV fitter in one so the future could be a bit rocky,I'm glad I'm a Permanent and the last to go if School winds down a bit!

Carrots,a field of....

And the other end where beans and pumpkin,rhubarb and silver beet live.

Now for a couple from our night in...

Now these are abit hmm rude? nearly made it to the 1st prize status but a lady undergoing chemo at present won with a top made up from the pink ribbons representing the Cancer Council but I got noticed especially when my boss practically shoved me up in front of the judges,Im normally a shy person.....oh Im busy texting my friend sitting behind the camera as we couldn't hear ourselves think for the noisy old school bus driven by Husby!!

Heres Husby with his gift for volunteering to run us old chooks in for the event,he had a bit of

fun in the end with a "cat fight"out in the bushes and I dont mean the furry kind and then the opposite later on,me thinks he may have had atouch more fun than us? We all thought that although it was a nice night "in" there was a lot of things that could have been improved,anyhow we will be putting on our own next year out here in Kambalda!
And this is our table,a few were Awol but it was a nice group and we had fun!!

On the spinning front Ive finished plying the pink and black merino but haven't got the rest of it out,must take some evidence piccies this weekend.The next little while is busy taken up making some extras for the Ravelry Swap Im partaking in,nearly finished the main item but have acouple of ideas for the rest,photos when posted!

Have anice bit of fluff coming from two of my fav suppliers and am sweating on Mandies from EGMTKs next Club!!!

Girls Nite In

2008-10-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

Ive just finished my boobs and bra for tonights Girls Night In in Kal.Hubbys our designated driver in the old school bus,a bit of a slogger,the bus,he he but we will get there on this hot windy day!!

Below are my efforts,the boobs are from Knitty too...

There are catagories for the time taken for the decorated bras,I reckon about half an hour for mine but not counting the boobs at about 2 hours.....

I was lucky to find these at KMart yesty when I dropped my poor car off at smash repairs,$10 bucks on the throw out table ,a bit of fring and sparkly ribbon and hot glue gunned gems and Im away!!!! Amazingly enough I tried to get big sizing so I could pop the boobies or tit bits in but these are quite a small fit! Lucky Im a small lady in that department!!!

Have a secret project coming along nicely and will put piccies up later when finished and ready to send so the recipient wont clue in... have a few projects Im dyeing to get started but have to finish the list first..still havent done Mums quilt and its her Bday 2 morrow,ooops...

Holidays!!!!!!!

2008-10-02T16:40:00.000-07:00

I love holidays,I have the school to myself(with other staff for part of holidays.) But peaceful and great to watch the birds really get into bathing under the hoses and generally living it up without any students running around!

This holiday we planned a few things to do on the weekend like movies and shopping as the boys rarely get to Kal as I scoot in on my own a lot. Its easier to do the usual jobs without dragging reluctant kids as well!Sort of debating the Mummy movie or the robot one,Wall-E...

Everything was coming along well with my RDO Friday and that meant we could get to Kal and keep the weekend free for the yard clean up and maybe finish some sewing...

WRONG!

I was run into by a work ute outside Woollies,Ben was showered in glass when the window literally exploded over him,he was still shaking a couple hours later..so all our holiday plans went out the window,Ha Ha. The slide door's wrecked and today(edited Friday ,just added Photos) we have to trip into Kal for quotes as directed by insurance peoples from two Smash Repairers,one of whom we have had bad reportsabout...not much shopping as obviously I cant lock the car..

I ll be without a vehicle for some time while its being repaired and as we don't want to have a spanking new door (curtisy of other driver,he reversed into me)and the rest of the car looking scroungy,we ll have to come up with money to match that as well,damn, blast and all the cursing,we've had some big bills coming in and its NOT the best time to shell out again.
Oh to edit again,around $10000 to paint whole car,its not even worth that....but about $4000 for top where sun damage is noticable..DH reackons a home job for around a couple of grand is looking great,cry boo hoo...
Isnt Duck Tape simply fantastic?
So off to Kal we go with an ever so fashionable green garbage bag for a window!
Oh this also means I have to ride my lovely red pushy to work each day, going to work, fine,coming home? its uphill! Oh well look on the bright side,I wont spend so much as I cant get to the shop and I'll be fit, but boy is my butt sore today,LOL.

Spinningnews,

Have started some hot pink merino top to ply with some black!
Will try to finish whats on the Victoria..

Knitting?

Finished those BFL socks! So quishy and soft,should have used less sts but Im happy with them! Please ignore one sock slightly different.

Finished dads Vest,will sew in ends this weekend and with the heat wave over there (Bourke) doubt he will wear it this year!

Stash Enhancement
2 balls of Patonyle just a lovely purpley patterned one for a gif
2 balls of Coccoon!!!!in Taupe,the company didnt send any other colours...

Oh and some gorgeous Sock That Rock from the Club..I havent gotten around to knitting any yet,its so nice in the skein though am wondering if its worth joining next year as I thought there would be more than fine merino looking at some of their last years fibre content,had hoped for at one in seacell or at least a silk mix!

This weekend I have to start a very special swap gift,have the pattern picked ,lets hope I can get it done in 3 weeks.....

Sewing

Want to finish that top and at least cut out second! Rachael has some more gorgeous patterns!

I managed to redo the binding on Mums quilt and have to handsew it over this weekend too!

Gunna be busy!!!!

Long Weekend!

2008-09-28T23:24:00.000-07:00

Ive had a nice long weekend this time and with 3 days of work and a RDO next Friday what could be better!

Even managed to leave stress behind too!

Look what Ive been up to today! The lovely Rachel with all her gorgeous efforts has spurred me on to drag out some bits and pieces ...This top Ive got to about half way as being at the machine for a couple of hours couldn't bring myself to get the overlocker out and re thread with white bit it all easy now so hopefully Ill finish it in the next day or so! I'm doing the blue version with the sleeves left open to see if I like it,if not then Ill add the pleat!

The other one waiting in the wings is this one... I am however waiting to see how the first one goes and then I may just do a second in this fabric and keep the lace for another day!

Here's another closer look at what I wanted to do,originally it was to be in a lovely paisley print I found,all dark oranges etc very similar to the photo on cover but shop has since closed and with no other dressmaking shops in Kal (only Chezs who deals in patchwork products) I might get Lincraft to send some soft Georgette samples like I used to years ago when living in the real outback!

Guess what I found though, that there are very few online fabric shops where you can see what the products look like(even though I prefer to feel before buying,a rough look would be nice so I can then decide if its worth getting samples)

I wanted to do these patterns ages ago but felt that my short hair style wouldn't look very good with that type of top but since I'm growing it out to a messy longer look ,thought Id dig them out. That will teach me to leave the ideal fabric behind next time!!!

On the knitting /spinning front,Ive finished the Finn , 3 and a bit skeins, about 320m. Now I'm thinking of knitting a "Sock Blank", hand painting it and then knitting something else,socks or gloves,a fast portable project! hmmm,not enough weekend days...

I'm currently dyeing some polwarth top in some gorgeous dyes from Mandies EGMTKs which I want to card with silk(again from Mandie!), no idea what to do with finished fibre but it should be fun.. I'm off to play abit more!

Proof of busyness!

2008-09-20T00:37:00.001-07:00

Ok this will prove that I have been Crafting!

First up is the sock and a half done foot of another in handspun BFL, on 3mm needles,very fast to knit,gloriously soft and spoingy!! These are for me as I did a nice pair for Hubby last Winter and really wanted a pair for me.I have another large ball in blues/whites going the same way later! Oh it's a made up toe up pattern starting with a basic 58 stitches,must finished next heel quickly as I didnt write down the instructions down. Anyway I think I may have enough for a pair of mittens too..that will also apply to the rest of the BFL I did H socks with too and they were bigger than mine..wish me luck!

And this is a no brainer sock in JigSaw using that st from the Death By Hat pattern,as said before its like the Olympic Sock pattern on Ravelry but I actually started this before I saw that one,had a good giggle about it.Dont know how its going to fit really as I cast on 74 sts and reduced them to fit the pattern st in ,didnt even take notice what I had on the needles while patterning. The ribbing at the top may be bit too stretchy but it will definely be good for circulation!

And this is the Moorit I finished last night,(theres another skein but it was hidden in stash and I just wanted an example anyway) its very soft and what some classers would say is doggy in character but it will make a gloriously soft pair of gloves for me and Mum,found a nice 8 ply pattern on Ravelry and have another given to me in pattern stash so hopefully I can get them done later,have so many lovely projects I want to do!

With a close up to see the colours....pale beigey tones to darker ones,simply yummy,would like to get more of this baa baa...

Still havent cut out tops,the table isnt tidy and having no room makes dressmaking a no go this weekend anyway,its warming up rapidly here and I reckon I could use them in a few weeks! The pool opens in October just after the Holidays and Im tipping the cost will be around $200 mark this year.All the boys can go on their own but I will still play a part in watchiing them especially as S isnt a strong swimmer and being epileptic as well wont sit well in my mind.

We think he had a "grande mal" last week as he was restless as though thrassing around but when I checked he was asleep.The next morning and since then really, he s not been himself.At least two boys have a weird tonsil thing and hes very doppy looking. One other blacked out in the tub a few days ago too and being a big boy hes bruised his elbows where he hit the bottom of shower.Me being a worry wart, my first thought was a heart problem as a young fella here last year collapsed at work but wasnt found for an hour ,out to it beside his ute in front of workshop.It was a heart problem apparently,hes ok now but it makes you think, especially with viruses affecting hearts and so on.Never the less, instructions have been issued to other boys to check him while showering BUT no S,.,T stirring.Knowing my boys they rise to the challenge of a bit of fun,LOL Im hoping to have both checked out soon by Paediatrican...

Oh I forgot,I also have another fleece arrive ,a gorgeous pure white Merino, with a good length and having been a covered sheep,vegie free! Its been put safely away so I can give it the attention it deserves after the other bits have been worked on and finished.Currently spinning Finn Lamb,its to die for,I must a cats nine lives or more as every bit of fluff is to die for,LOL

Hello!!!!!

2008-09-14T03:47:00.000-07:00

I have been here.... just an bit lazy,really should say too tired ,no time and so on... to do anything other to visit fav bloggers and window shop!
Actually its been so long I forgot my pass word to my own blog,Heavens....
We went to the Coolgardie Day thing today mainly to see our two boys works which won prizes in the Art Comp this year,very exciting and the rest of the works were fantastic.I took the obligaterypiccies of the pair of them standing rather quietly next to their indiviual pieces...This was the last art comp for the Coolgardie Art Group due to lack of support apparently but the lady I was talking to was a bit sort of bitchy anyway but looked a bit nasty upon me saying cheerfully that we at Kambalda might take it on ! You see a lot of money goes from our little town to Coolgardie and as we boomed here ,they sort of stagnated and theres still a lot of noise about where our Shire is based,Coolgardie, even though the big money is in Kambalda.They have in the last couple of years sort of caught up but that friction seems to hang in there!
First is Paddy with his painting...

Then Benji with his proud work...
Both got Prizes and I think Gift Vouchers to local art Shop..might have a look tooas Im slowly building up my own art stuff again,so far got some Oils,water colours and boards,just have to find some time and peace...

The art Teacher is always telling me they have loads of talent and he'd like to see them expand them...guess what'll be under the tree this year....
Spinning news,

Ive nearly finished that Moorit,have a bobbin or half an hour I think,so soft and squishy,a pair of gloves for Mum and me
Finished that Optum from gorgeous Mandies 2nd Fibre Club I think,no 1st..want to do the next one,this stuff is seriously soft and meltly to feel
Started some Optum I dyed soft spring haze colours ages ago
Finished enough English Leicester/Romney for Dads Socks
washed up the fleece to start the next lot,(all finn crosses,the polwarth one gets it first..its unbelievable soft..)
recieved more dye from Mandie and some nylon to mix in with merino for special socks

Knitting...

Nearly finished a sock in BFL ,red yellow pink with grading of colour from one to another,socks for me..
Nearly finished a sock oin a lovely pastel colour from Jigsaw,my own pattern using the st pattern from the Death By Hat,a false cable lace thing,very similar Ive discavered to the Olympic socks on Ravelry
Still have a sleeve to do on Dads vest..too many things at once must do tonight must do tonight must do tonight,keep chanting I might just do it!!!
Havent finished that vest in Zoomy,not sure what to do with it now,have the hood to do....

Things I want to do

Sew two new tops for me,peasant tops,could only get some basic stuff in Kal as shop has closed or is and didnt what I wanted..
Finish Mums Quilt,have to talke off binding and redo
Do a Special quilt bag for my Dearest Friend...
Spin up that Polwarth top and some Finn/Polwarth and compare
Dye some top in Volcano colours....
Find a farm...

But the best part is that I finished that Criteria resume etc for a work mate going for a Gov job and now Im free to do some of the above,woop peeee,........(hope she gets the job)

Leave you with this....

A full Weekend

2008-08-31T01:42:00.000-07:00

I ve busy busy busy this last couple of weeks,not blogging or even commenting though I was visiting other blogs, usually around 5am before going to work.

This week will be different as I did my back in and have been confined to a week in the office..eeek....not sure how that will go but will take my sock on the go for tea and lunch break as usual! Nearly finished a pair of dyed Patonyle socks ,my own pattern,sailed through last sock waiting in Doctors not only for my poor back but for Son no4 who was pushed off the playground slide. He broke a tiny chip off that hidden little bone in what they call the Snuff Box and being the child he is,(mildly autistic),hes not very happy with the confines of the cast which has be on a minimum of two weeks! Was happy with the fuss of be Xrayed!

Im a bit concerned at moment with the audacity of the school to keep placing different aides with him each day which means lack of communication between them and the lack of continuity of work laid out for him.Ive been urged to Wrte to District Office but Im really worried it may come back on the rest of us as there are other issues too such as another son not being given challenges to suit his academic ability.A request to have him transferred to another better class has be swept under carpet. grrr..

Anyway the focus of THIS weekend has been the invitation to demonstrate spinning at the Southern Cross Agricultural Show,it was a cold day tooo! I was assigned a nice big area right near the door so everyone who walked through couldn't help but see all my fibrey goodies! One lad tried to buy my Hubby's BFL socks I had as an example of how that fibre came up as a knitted article,when told how much and the time to do him a pair, he soon back peddled! The beauty of doing these sort of demos is not only only do people realise the time and effort to complete a project but what is involved as well! Did however managed to help a number of ladies And enlightened a few Hubbies as well!

What I did was to set out a selection of samples of spinning wool/roving or tops

many of which these sheep growers haven't seen before,in particular the British breeds; BFL Cheviot,Masham etc.There were samples of raw fleece to washed and carded,a spun skein showing the results,knitted articles and so on.A few wanted to know if I was selling any and would I be interested in doing so,sort of unprepared for being asked for my Business card,LOL

I set up the trusty Traddie and got abit done to show anyone interested,plied some Moorit I was currently working on and also the lovely little Victoria got to show off aittle,as I was still working on some of your Corriedale Mandie! Must finish that soon!!!!

I ve been asked to go to another Show in bout 3 weeks but the cost of getting there may be the problem,looking at a couple of hundred to do the trip! Would love to see that country though,greener than here!!

From where I sat I could see all the bins of show wool, a dreamy medium fleece from the winning ewe had me but its going to the Perth royal but the owner said later I could have gotten a bit but it had already been packed by then!

Here's myself and Pat (looking comfortable) in our spot! Next year I ve been advised to bring some salable bits such as socks,gloves spinning and knitting supplies as they would have sold quickly! I think I may take this in hand and put together a box of bits through the year.

Please notice I'm wearing my faithful Central Park Hoodie!!!!Love this cardie,warm and comfy must get another one(don't like the Rowan one want another in red Bendigo! Have to order Mums soon so will probably add some to order for me!

Will be back with some more piccies of current projects ! I'm off to finish Dads Vest and get ready to school and work tomorrow! Dr Whos on tonight looking,forward to some laid back time as Hubby's cooked fish on the BBQ so no need to fuss over Dinner!!

Oops

2008-08-10T03:07:00.000-07:00

Oops indeed,Ive been away a fair bit haven't I? But the good bit about that is that I ve been spinning heaps and knitting even more ,..And like so many others I ve been getting lost in Ravelry! At first when I joined I didnt really visit much and couldnt see the point of trawling and a record of my stash and patterns was just a guilt trip especially when I was adding even more,no, only a portion of my stash is on my stash page! I just havent the time to photo and document them but Im getting there....the same applies to the projects page,theres a lot more lurking in various parts of the house,dont get me started with the fibre stash.....

Anyhoo, on the knitting front!

Ive only got a 4 inches to finish the last side of my Dads Jet vest,hopefully will polish that off tonight and just the ribbing to go...

While in the LWS,Chezs on friday I added to stash with some chocolate Studio Mohair( to add to the pale pink lot I bought last week...),more Patonyle and some Inca and a ball of darkish blue Jigsaw sock yarn.I find it a bit harsh to knit but boy it goes throught the washing machine just super!

That Inca is already growing into a Crochetted scarf for my Mum as an extra when I send Dads vest over so she wont feel left out. I was asked by my Boss at work to show her how to do a scarf out of the same yarn but I wasnt sure ,just gave her the basics and thought Id try one too.Im pleased with it,a bit wonky at the beginning but a couple of flowers should cover that,LOL Im using a 7mm hook ,a purple metalic one,very quick,I did one ball waiting for Hubby I the Truck outside Bunnings.. with two squabbling boys...

Ive started, ripped and started a vest thingy from Creative Knittings last issue(yes Iknow all are old patterns etc BUT I dont have them) in green Zoomie,really "Zoomed" through the back last night and by 10.30 looked and realised Id made a size 4 year,hes only about 18mths so I started agian in athe 2yr old size,all guess work as its a surprise!

I meant to sew the rest of my Studio Mohair in blue jacket up so I could use when I take Sam into Kal for his Friends For Life course on Wednesday but things got in the way...

Carded up another supermarket box of Finn/Romney fleece,Im hoping to spin the last two bobbins for a pair of socks for Dad,hopefully Christmas pressie,very pleased with last two!

Got a pile of mags in Kal too,the lastest Spinoff,a knitting mag I havent seen before,or was that a Crocheting one,it had a amurigami Octopus in it,had to have it,the Kids were driving me up the wall and I need some retail therapy,especially when Telstra staff told me I couldnt get my new phone as they were changing over something or other and couldnt do my old sim card in the new phone there and then,grrr,#*#*# Telstra!!!

Started a pair of bed socks for the Under 13 coach on the way to town..

Hmmm heaps of projetcs and few not mentioned but I should be able to polish the most important ones by August end...

Back with more piccies later!

Abit More

2008-07-12T22:56:00.000-07:00

Im back with a couple of piccies...Fluffa likes a sock rub....

OOh dont look at my messy floor...
But not keen on being scruffed

The vegie garden,the bit I claimed back from Hubby,theres coloured chard,miniture Broccoli, rhubarb and lettuce and as soon as its starts to warm up,bush beans will appear!

And the best bit of all,my second lot of washed Romney/finn fleece washed and drying in the warm sun,I carded up the first lot but want to finish what I have going on the Traddy first,waiting on a reply from suppler for another kilo,if I can have it Ill clean up wheel and spinn the R/F while waiting, for it to arrive!! Hmm have a bit of Corrie Moorit waiting,better get it done first as I can comb it out during my lunch break and spin at night,that sounds like a feasible plan,

Ive started on the Girlfriends socks and they ll sail, 8ply standard stocking st ones mindless and fast!! Practise for the Death by Hat! Ill add a piccies for record when a bit further down track!

A Perfect Winter day

2008-07-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

I was born early this morning to my poor unsuspecting Mum some years ago,lol,not telling how long...so Im sitting here writing this post listening to Gabriella Cilmi s Sweet About Me,drinking a nice cup of Cammomile and spearmint while I wait for a dear friend to come around so I can show her the latest off the wheel and how navajo plying works!

Meanwhile Hubby is nicely giving the Rodent a run in the back yard,its sunny with a brisk little wintery wind, just a lovely day.

The kitchen is clean,Paddy is baking me a devils food cake too, I love hiscooking for as a12 or should I say 13 year old,hes a great cook!

Hubby and I are off to one of his friends Bday do tonight so its going to be a fab time too,probably a bit cold...being a pool party an' all....

I put in a request for a pressie from Hubby and boys but they have other ideas but to give a hint of my secret project...one item that is on the list very excited about this,Hubbys calling it my second teenagerhood, hmm dont know about that as hes as bad (if you can call it bad,LOL) One of his mates is riding a recent Triumph model up from Perth,one of 8 imports, Im hoping for a demo.....

Despite this I went to the LWS and stocked up for the upcoming Hat Wars!(re Ravelry) and as she was having a 30% discount on ALL stock,(this I didn't know til leaving) I grabbed some 8ply Panda and Heirloom wool in buttery yellow and pale pink for more socks,rather like thick socks in my uggies after work!!
Have request for bedsocks from No 1 girlfrindso willbe starting them today sometime!! Anyhoo,I also picked up another pattern book from Cleckheaton Studio Mohair and I' ve fallen for a lovely pattern in there(actually a couple but this looks very nice) so might give her a call to see when the sale ends so I can get the Mohair... pink ,mint,chocolate? cant make mind up!!!Tried to do a search of book but must e out of print,Ill photo it and add later,its a lovely book with enough basic stuff but witha modernedge!!
Im still spinning heaps,had 500g lot of fawny corriedale/english leicester of which Im just finishing last ball,navajoed and so far gained 5 balls,must have had some waste as I thought Id get 6 or 7 balls of around 8ply with an 96 average metres per ball.Its washed up a treat and is a very silvery tone with a wee bit of darker bits here and there.
I was game and got the fluffy bits out and washed them and carded for the last bobbin,very pleased with result as I would normally throw it out. Also washed a handfull of romney/finn and carded as well,waiting to spin it to see how it goes, have an order for a fleece with a higher finn content. Don't think I could wash too much fleece,might be a bit heavy on the gas/water bill,nice to play with a bit though!!
Will try to get somepiccies tommorrow,too windy and lights not good at moment!

2008-06-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

Well Im back with some piccies...

First up,the kitchen ready to be grouted probably 2day and 2morrow,dont think we have enough grout...

William!Me!

Started on the bath yesty and wore the skin off the pad of one finger and damaged another,all bandaged up last night,wanted to knit some of the Ravelry swap item,big secret but have had some oos and arrs over it here and lots of envious looks,LOL

Next some spinning Id done over the last month....

Theres the blue white alpaca,merino mohair...originally from Yarnivorous Stash, shes having a ball in the US among the stuff we can only dream about here,yarn wise of course,I think we have the Bestest wool!!!!

Now this is the alpacca straight from the Paccies back,one lot I paid 99c on ebay as I only wanted to try it first,a bit coarse and the fleece was quite dirty and I threw outabout a third of it,a lot of short cuts,a guard hair..this is destined for a pair of gloves,found a "recipie " last night on Ravely around 11.30,naughty but nice a quiet..this turned out around an 8 ply at a guess!

The next is the black corri/merino from my lovely Aunt,the first ball had been sitting on the wheel for months as I headed off in yet another direction,anyhoo Its been navajo plied(I needed the wheel free and it was very finely spun) and I quickly did up a second as I did get excited about how it turned out,but the second was alittle tooo quick,its a smiggin thicker but I done care I love it anyway! Imhoping tokeep picking away to make avest out of it as I only nee to do 6 or 7 more balls like this a couple of weeks work but I aint making commitment,I spin when the love there(remember the washable laps I was spinning last winter,I need one more ball,the others sitting in the stash box glaring at me and as I want to dye them I have to finish that ball first ...I really could have used a vest heaps....)

Next is the current spinning,I did this over two nights,and is guilty of me being slack with finishing the gouting the bath,had to comb while the sun was warm didnt I!? Its by memory, corredale,English Leicester,a caramel pale grey type,called socks Im thinking,one more bobbin should do,though I may be short changing there in expectations as theres roughly 90 to 100 meters per navajo ball on the Ashford! (I forgot how much spinning I can get done on this lovely old wheel) Need 4 for a decent pair of thick sockies... This wool is quite tweedy,some bits of dark staple appeared and Im curious how it turns out,all will be plied and washed this arvo!!!! I got this from another brilliant Ebayer who Im hoping will put up more of this wool later,she also sells her own wool commercially made into yarn,I have a stash of white corrie put away for a jumper and I had intitually contacted her for more of that and end up getting this wool instead...lovely lady to deal with and is a Fibre Trends dealer as well!

Lastly I just had to put this back up(I think Ive showed this bfore) the gorgeously soft BFL,handdyed and spun on the Roberta,just look at the lusterous squishyness of it,I really want to knit this but cant bear to undo the perfect ball!!!

Cant help but put another up....sorry but I just love this ball,actually I reballed it a couple of times to get it just right,ok Im nuts but Im back into the spinning mojo and knitting of course,and must try to squeeze some patch work in too, after a rather long period of non interest mainly from work crap but as I said before I aint going there,this is for good thoughts and yummy fibres ...
Speaking of which I was naughty and bought out Mandies mohair supply and got wee bit of Gotland to try,any chance of Gotland lamb soon, Mandie?
I just love getting parcels in the mail,the sight of the little red card in the box is better than Chrissy!!!!!
Im off to finish the bath!

Back Again

2008-06-25T04:48:00.000-07:00

Oh dear! it has been a while! I had a week off the week before last when I picked up that ghastly fluey cold going around,acually I worked Monday ,mowed the Sports park and by one it had come in dusty rain so I was frozen by the time I got back to the shed,by 4 I was dying from bug!!!!'Thankfully pottering around at home I was a lot better y Thursday...

pumpkin soup made by Hubby,a new made up sock pattern in some of Yarnivorous gorgeous hand dyed wool and bits and pieces to keep me happy....

I cleaned up enough to set everything up to have some much needed fun as I havent had time off properly for 3 years (except that 8 days away to visit parents last July,not rest time though) I bounced from the Roberta Wheel to the sock on the table all day!! I got half a sock done and full bobbin of white alpaca and started the brown(99 cents worth off ebay...).All plied now but havent taken a piccie yet,gloves they shall be... Finished off the Silk wool socks for a friend,very happy with them,I think they are the first ones made just for her,delighted she was!!! This week Ive taken off as annual leave to help Hubby finally get the tiling etc done,half the Bath is done, finish tommorrow and then grout,we did the front verandah Monday and I started the grouting but the wind was up and warm so the grout went off too quick,may have to do again.Bugger,hard on the hands especially when theres a lovelt English Leicester/corredale to play with....Kitchen I hope will be on the way by tomorrow arvo..no divorce plans ..yet.....

Bath ,1.30pm today...

6pm tonight....

other veiws....

imagine a lovely green fern hanging near the glass bricks?

Doesnt look real upmarket, its a normal small room and when the fittings are in,it will look better...dont like the all white but that was Hubbys choice.At least I got say more in the Kitchen,LOL

On the spinning front Ive done another navajo plied ball of black merino/corredale and am really loving playing with raw fleece again..on the search for a white fleece in the same mix/cross,hopefully Hubby wont find out,I have an equally large stash of fleece too..woolistaking over the house,weliterally fight toget down the hall and its stashed in nearly every cupboard,finding stuff ive hiddenmonths before is like Christmas,LOL

Back with more later....

Its the last day!

2008-06-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

For the Foundation Day holiday for WA and what did I do,not a sleep in or anything wool like,no I had a leisurely cup and then Brecky at 5.30am and wandered off to school to do some annoying little jobs I cant do when the kids are there,like spray for bugs,poision the lawns beetles out,and then a few enjoyable things as I was all alone,it was so quiet,wonderful,all ready to go home at 10.30 and lo and behold,the local Electrician saw my car nad pulled in to do a couple of jobs too.... got home at 12pm....

This going around a few blogs so thought it would be interesting to have a go...

1) What was I doing ten years ago? I was just getting over finding out no 5 was on the way(and Hubby was in the dog house)we were living in a run down disgusting house in Cobar and Hubby were looking for another job,things were not looking rosy,I was earning a few dollars sewing for a small clientele of ladies,YUK, rude and difficult....

2) What are five (non-work) things on my to do list for today? Whipper snip my disgusting back yard,water MY half of the vegie garden(Hubby has graciously let me have back,)have broccoli,colour chard and lettuce so far, Card the rest of a 99c lot of brown caramel Alpaca fleece I bought ,the white can wait....

3) Snacks I enjoy? Cheese cake,soup,greek salad,hmmm... home made raspberry muffins,hummingbird cake with loads of cream cheese topping...

4) Things I would do if I were a billionaire? BUY ME A FARM,a flat for my boys to use while at Uni,and the usual pay off all the bills and import some woollies for the Farm,dont know how to have a holiday anyway,LOL

5) Places I have lived? Louth,grew up there or near there,Dubbo when I first left home(out the back door,quiet like) Jerilderie,on a Merino Stud, Longreach, on "Hartree" Stn, Cobar,mining industry, where rest of boys were born,then Kambalda,WA, best move we ever made!!

6) Jobs I have had? Hmm,jillaroo,SAHM,best job, and now Level 5 Senior Gardener .....

7) Peeps I want to know more about? No Idea,I dont follow celebritty stuff but would love to go see Yarn Harlots speeches one day ,only a dream of course!!!!

Below is that blue and white I was spinning,its turned out very well and varies from a 7 to 10 ply but reasonablysoft,very happy with it and I hope to knit a newsboy cap with it,even if it doesnt suit me,LOL