Girly With A Twist

Let the Nascar Season Begin

2012-02-13T06:21:00.001-08:00

And the dark times with no racing have come to an end.

18 Feb - Budweiser Shootout

23 Feb - Gatorade Duels

24 Feb - Daytona truck race (watch the return of Ward Burton)

26 Feb - Daytona 500

The Day of the Crew Chief

2012-02-10T10:05:00.000-08:00

Chad Anthony Knaus of Rockford, Illinois

Slytherin Quidditch For The Win

2012-01-14T18:45:00.000-08:00

Knaus on working with Lowe's

2012-01-09T11:41:00.000-08:00

Season in Review

2011-12-12T19:33:00.001-08:00

Chad Knaus on 2012 paint scheme

2011-12-05T14:01:00.001-08:00

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,

Which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining,

… Just as brightly as his brass.

‘Step forward now, you soldier,

How shall I deal with you ?

Have you always turned the other cheek ?

To My Church have you been true?’

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,

‘No, Lord, I guess I ain’t.

Because those of us who carry guns,

Can’t always be a saint.

I’ve had to work most Sundays,

And at times my talk was tough.

And sometimes I’ve been violent,

Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,

That wasn’t mine to keep…

Though I worked a lot of overtime,

When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,

Though at times I shook with fear.

And sometimes, God, forgive me,

I’ve wept unmanly tears.

I know I don’t deserve a place,

Among the people here.

They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fears.

If you’ve a place for me here, Lord,

It needn’t be so grand.

I never expected or had too much,

But if you don’t, I’ll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,

Where the saints had often trod.

As the soldier waited quietly,

For the judgment of his God.

‘Step forward now, you soldier,

You’ve borne your burdens well.

Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets,

You’ve done your time in Hell.’

Author Unknown~

On Wisconsin!

2011-11-10T21:59:00.001-08:00

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Grand old Badger State!

We, your loyal sons and daughters,

Hail thee, good and great.

On, Wisconsin! On, Wisconsin!

Champion of the right,

"Forward", our motto,

God will give thee might!

In ten days, we will be living in Wisconsin. It seemed like only yesterday when we were driving across the entire country and arrived in Oregon from Virginia. It was new and exciting. And now we get another opportunity to live in a different part of the country and for me it will be the first time in the mid-west area. I am not really counting the short time I spent in the Great Lakes area back when I was in the Navy. That was just for school. Anyway, we shall have the great fun of traveling to Wisconsin with two little boys. One of them is very excited about the trip since he is convinced we are moving there for "cheese and snow". Why else would one move to Wisconsin? So hopefully I will have great tales of the trip there and of the arrival. Plus, I still have to post pictures of the cute little house that we will hopefully be living in before the end of the year. I have decided to refer to it as the "Little House in Wisconsin". You will see what I mean when I post the pictures. Until then...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

Jeff Burton and Chad Knaus... Do I really need to say any more than that?

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving Canada!

2011-10-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

Keep Your Head Up Jeff!!!

2011-09-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ten Years Later...

2011-09-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

Writing Meme...

2011-07-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

I saw this meme about writing styles over at Hermione Jean Creations and here is what I came up with...

I write like
Stephen King

I Write Like by Mémoires, journal software. Analyze your writing!

Finished Object Friday

2011-07-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

Descent into Slytherin Darkness Wrap

Pattern: Descent into Darkness by Marilee Norris

Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes

Needles: US Size 10 1/2 (6.50mm) Knit Picks Harmony Circular needles

The Burton Channel

2011-07-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Only in my wildest dreams would this come true... but I would Slythersquee if this ever happened.

Can we say Chad Knaus?

2011-07-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!!!

2011-07-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jeff!!!

2011-06-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Jeff Burton of South Boston, Virginia

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T11:16:00.001-07:00

Virginia Is For Lovers

2011-05-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

The Knitter’s Manifesto

2011-03-18T15:24:00.000-07:00

The Knitter’s Manifesto

By Donald Sutton

No longer will I be known as merely a crafter, nor will my knitting be considered a hobby. I am an artist, and my art deserves to be recognized as such by the world. If the world refuses, it will be so recognized by me, for I am the only one who can truly determine the validity of my art.

I am an artist whose medium is yarn, whose tools are simple needles, whose palette encompasses every known color of the spectrum. I paint with string, carve with sticks, and the click of needles is its own special music. I create objects out of next to nothing that are functional as well a beautiful.

I am an artist and have spent years honing my skills. That time spent is invaluable to me, and increases with each work I complete. I am the only one who can determine fair recompense for my artwork. Each stitch is well and honestly considered, and if an incorrect stitch is left in the work, it is because I have determined it should be so, not because I made a mistake. I am the only one who can accurately determine how my art is displayed.

I am an artist. My creations are as personal as the thoughts in my head. Should I choose to keep any or every piece I create, I will not be labeled selfish or uncaring. These are painstaking works; years of study are involved in each stitch, each pattern, and each color choice. They deserve to be received by someone who will recognize and appreciate the costs involved, not merely in materials, but in time and skill as well. In the event that my gifting was ill-considered I can at my own discretion retrieve the piece without being thought of as selfish, or known as someone who gives and takes back.

I am an artist and I will always retain the authority, decision and right to determine the final disposition of my works. Each recipient is matched with an original, unique creation – this is not done lightly or without thought. I do not take requests, either for articles or works in specific patterns. Each work is carefully considered based on my knowledge of my own skill and the characteristics of the intended recipient, even if that recipient is me. For the most part, my works are created for a single individual, and thus are to be considered even more priceless than an installation that will be viewed or ignored by the masses.

I am an artist. I am not selfish, stingy or greedy. I do not take myself, my skills or my art for granted. They are gifts from a power beyond me that are enviable and coveted. I pity those who will not create; I do not despise those who cannot.

I create because I must, but not because I am obligated. To not create is unthinkable. It is my desire, skill and creativity that make me an artist, not anyone else’s opinion. It is my choice to work in the medium of sticks and string.

I am a knitter, and I am an artist.

Welcome to the Jungle

2011-03-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Quidditch Cheer Day

2011-03-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-09T10:09:00.000-08:00

Snow Day in Hillsboro

2011-02-24T07:33:00.000-08:00

Apparently it didn't start until the wee hours of the morning. When I came home from knit night there was nothing yet. And now the boys have a day off from school.

Peaches & Creme goodness

2011-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

Jeff Burton Predictions for Daytona 500

2011-02-18T15:17:00.000-08:00

Jeff Burton for the Win

2011-02-18T13:46:00.001-08:00

Busch, Burton win Duel races

Can I Slytherin?

2011-02-17T11:22:00.001-08:00

Let it Snow...

2011-02-16T10:15:00.000-08:00

... even if it was only for too short of a time.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Love Bites V--The Valentine Vampire Swap 2011

2011-02-07T21:38:00.000-08:00

House Cup Projects January 2011

2011-01-29T16:53:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T10:46:00.001-08:00

Wedge Antilles - The Unsung Alliance Hero

2011-01-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

The Craft Room

2011-01-24T11:20:00.000-08:00

The craft room is still a work in progress but at least the pictures are up. I still have a small pile near the bookshelf to organize. Plus, the closet needs some more work. But I have a place to craft and to do my homework.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

Finished At Last

2011-01-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

Pattern: February Lady Sweater

Yarn: Cascade 220 Wool in Ruby Red

Needles: US 8 (5.00mm) and US 7 (4.50mm)

Modifications: Added a hood using US 8 (5.00mm) needles

Start Date: December 20, 2009

Finished Date: January 18, 2011

The only thing I did differently to the sweater was add a hood. And it was easier than I thought. Hopefully I can explain how I did it without confusing anyone.

The hood was added on after the sweater was completed.

1. With right side facing, I picked up stitches around the entire cast on edge. For me that was 87 stitches. I picked up stitches in the first row so that the hood would look as seamless as possible.

2.In the first row (wrong side facing), I increased 3 stitches to have a total of 90 stitches. I just needed an even number for the 3 needle bind off at the end.

3. The hood itself is just straight stockinette stitch with a garter stitch edge on both sides. I did an 8 stitch garter stitch border to match the garter edging on the body.

4. I continued until the hood measured about 14 inches. Then I divided the stitches in half on 2 needles and did a 3 needle bind off.

Hopefully this helps you add a hood to your February Lady Sweater should you desire. Of course now I have to add a hood to the blue one I have as it looks unfinished without one.

Seattle to PDX Yarn Train

2011-01-15T17:12:00.000-08:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-01-14T13:33:00.001-08:00

Friday Fill-Ins 2011-02

1. Right now I need a really good back massage.

2. A Sonic Screwdriver Cocktail is what's in my glass. Okay, no not really. But it sounds good right about now.

3. A copy of this letter shall be mailed to Jeff Burton.

4. Blackberry gelato is best with a spoon.

5. The best movie I've seen lately is Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part I.

6. Sunshine is what I like; hand knit socks are what I love.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a quiet evening at home...well that is the plan anyway, tomorrow my plans include the Seattle to Portland Yarn Train and Sunday, I want to wrap up my homework for my two classes!

Reducio Swap Round 13 - The Deathly Hallows

2011-01-13T13:12:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Jimmie Johnson - My Way Or The Highway

2011-01-10T16:47:00.000-08:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-01-07T11:08:00.001-08:00

Friday Fill-Ins 2011-01

1. It's 2011; I hope for more sunshine this year.

2. Awwww, pickles.

3. Thankfully I have my husband to help get me through college.

4. Watching two little boys grow up is among one of the best things in life.

5. I am so over yarn snobbery. Every yarn has a purpose. Even (dare I say it) ... fun fur.

6. I could really use a big bowl of chips with salsa right about now.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to some quiet time, tomorrow my plans include taking the boys to Lowes for the Build and Grow program and maybe a crochet meeting and Sunday, I want to wrap up the school work and get some knitting or spinning done!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T12:28:00.001-08:00

Have a Slytherific New Year!!!

2011-01-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2011!!! Not only is today the start of a new year, but the start of a new term over at the Harry Potter Knit/Crochet House Cup (a group on Ravelry). This also marks my second term as the Head of House for the House of Slytherin. I became HoH last term after an unfortunate incident which I shall not speak of anymore. But today marks a new term and a new beginning for the House Cup. The original Headmistress has stepped down. But she is still involved in the House Cup as its Founder. The new Headmistress will do a fabulous job.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Seventh Year Swap & Graduation

2010-12-20T17:17:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T08:53:00.000-08:00

Slytherin Yule Exchange

2010-12-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Dear DrusillaWormwood,

I ♥ ♥ ♥ you!!! This great package arrived yesterday and let me tell you even the hubby thinks the poem is totally awesome. How much do I love that poem? I am gonna put it on Christmas themed paper and put it in a frame with a picture of the Race Car Driver. The poem makes me squee like a school girl and sport a cheesy grin. The rest of the package was pretty awesome too. But the poem was epic. And yes, the yarn is Malabrigo. ::insert Burton grin::

Here is the poem for all to see:

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the Slytherin house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The cauldron was hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that the Race Car Driver soon would be there.

The Slytherins were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of sugar-snakes danced in their heads.

And Girle in her robes and wizarding cap,

Could not settle down for a long winter’s nap.

The coffee she drank from her pumpkin cup was the matter,

Sugary donughts and caffeine made her mad as a hatter.

Malabrigo consoled her, her needles did flash,

Till she saw movement from the window and threw open the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.

When, what to her wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature race car, with a pit crew and gear.

A black and gold paint job! And a number “31” - she was certain!

She knew right away it was her dear Jeff Burton.

More rapid than 750 horsepower he came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called her by name!

“Now Girlie I know you’ve been waiting for me!

And I have brought something I’d like you to see!”

And then, in a twinkling, she heard in the hall,

Jeff Burton and pit crew and race car and all.

As she drew in her head, and was turning around,

Down the Dungeon stairs the Race Car Driver came with a bound.

He was dressed all in leather, from his head to his foot,

And his clothes were all tarnished with road dirt and soot.

A case of champagne he had flung on his back,

And he looked love starved as he gazed at her rack.

Then his face lit up with that boyish grin,

And Girlie said, “Well, don’t just stand there, come on in!”

…then several hours later…

He ran to his car, to his team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,

“Merry Christmas to all, and thanks for a good night!”

HSKS12 Goodies

2010-11-30T12:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

2010-11-29T18:01:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I have been really good this year. Evidence of my goodness comes from the fact that my children are still alive. Please send the following.

Jeff Burton with race car
some peace and quiet time
The House Cup
cheesecake

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-24T15:52:00.000-08:00

Snow in Hillsboro

2010-11-23T10:23:00.001-08:00

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

We really didn't get a lot of snow. I can still see the road in front of the house. But it was enough to close the schools down. Which got me to thinking. This small amount wouldn't be enough to close schools in Pueblo, Colorado. But then Pueblo is better equipped to handle snow unlike the Portland, Oregon area. So both boys are home today. Only the Gryffinboy (8 yr old) is missing a school day. The Slytherboy (5 yr old) has the week off anyway and he only goes twice a week to preschool.

Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows

2010-11-20T21:11:00.000-08:00

Just saw it today and I want to see it again on the big screen. My pal's package is practically complete. I do have to replace one treat as the Slytherboy decided that he wanted it for himself. But at least the hand made item is complete. I have the yarn and needles. Just need the final touches and then it will be on its way across the state border. Yes, I said state border. My spoilee pal is not far from where I live so it won't take too long for her to get another package from me. Yes, I said another package. She was also my spoilee pal for the latest term of Hogwarts Little Bit of Everything Swap.

Happy Birthday Slytherboy!!!

2010-11-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

5 years later...

Week 9 - Pop Quiz

2010-11-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

1. To which prison was Gellert Grindelwald sent after he was defeated by Dumbledore in 1945?
Nurmengard

2. Who is the first casualty in The Deathly Hallows?
Charity Burbage

3. What does Draco Malfoy name his son?
Scorpius

4. Before Harry gains control of it, who is the master of the Elder Wand?
Draco Malfoy

5. Severus Snape’s Patronus takes the same form as which other character’s?
Lily Potter

6. Where do Ron, Hermione and Harry apparate when Death Eaters invade Bill and Fleur’s wedding?
Tottenham Court Road

7. Who does Harry send to search for Mundungus Fletcher and the missing locket?
Kreacher

8. Who destroys Salazar Slytherin’s locket?
Ron

9. What does Hermione use to destroy Helga Hufflepuff’s cup?
Basilisk fangs

10. Following the death of Lord Voldemort, who is named temporary Minister of Magic?
Kingsley Shacklebolt

Sock-it-to-me Sunday

2010-11-07T21:10:00.000-08:00

Pattern: Slytherin Pride Socks by Ann Kingstone

Yarn: Knit Picks Palette in "Ivy" and "Mist"

Needles: US size 1 1/5 (2.50mm) DPNs

Week 8 - Anagrams

2010-11-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

1. SPARSE VENUES = Severus Snape
2. GO UNLOAD LOVE = Luna Lovegood
3. A MOTH SEDAN = Thomas Dean
4. FLUSH CIGAR = Argus Filch
5. SLICK AIRBUS = Siruis Black
6. DUMB ANALOG = Ludo Bagman
7. A DRY MOO-CALF = Draco Malfoy
8. UNSNAP THE SKI = Stan Shunpike
9. PIT-A-PAT RIVAL = Pavarti Patil
10. AN OLD JEER = Lee Jordan

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-11-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #198

1. Sometimes, life can be quite unfair. But since when is life ever fair? Everything happens for a reason.

2. Let's just forget about the whole thing. It's not that important anyway.

3. Small minds can be a terrible thing.

4. Reading a good book is very enlightening.

5. I keep meaning to restock the etsy store but haven't had time to yet.

6. I have not been to a Nascar race in person ...yet. But when that day comes, I plan on totally going fan girl on Jeff Burton.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to some quality time with The Chief aka the hubby, tomorrow my plans include grocery shopping and Sunday, I want to attend a local craft bazaar!

Dona Nobis Pacem

2010-11-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Did you remember to vote today?

2010-11-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Dia de los Muertos Swap

2010-11-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to PurlsBeforeWine of Chicago, Illinois for the DDLM package!!!

Here we have a felted skull scarf, a small project bag, some hand dyed yarn to lift the spirits here in the dreary Portland, Oregon area (we are about to enter rainy season) and 4 fat quarts in DDLM theme.

Here we have 2 candied apples which I haven’t shown to the boys yet. I love the cute little skull purse. That little round item is tea. I’ll have to find something cool to attach the skull patches to. And lastly, there is the Mexican bingo and the hand made soap. I love hand made soap.

Here are individual shots of the fabric. I’ll have to make something cool with them. Thank you again!!!

Slytherin Pride Swap

2010-11-01T17:39:00.000-07:00

This lovely package came from Silksky, a fellow Slytherin. She lives in Massachusetts so she was able to get me some maple syrup candy from Vermont. I totally love that stuff. The chips were the first thing to be eaten. The stitch markers are just what I needed and I really love the yarn. I haven't picked a project yet but it will be fabulous no matter what I choose.

HP Knitting/Crochet House Cup News

2010-10-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

October Classes and OWL Progress

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-10-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #197

1. While the cat's away then the mice will play.

2. Compliments from the hubby make me feel fabuloso!

3. Children are hard work at times but so worth the time and effort.

4. I try to sit down and relax when I get home from work or shopping or what have you but it rarely happens.

5. This may seem odd, but I can't go to bed without checking to make sure that all the doors are locked first.

6. The hubby had an idea to visit Ecuador one day and that seems like a fine idea to me!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to some quiet knitting time, tomorrow my plans include picking up the hubby from the MAX station and Sunday, I want to watch the Nascar race and take the kids out for trick or treating!

Sonic Screwdriver

2010-10-28T13:42:00.001-07:00

Who looks at a skein of yarn and thinks...oh, this could be a little more sonic.

The yarn is Sheepy Feet in the "Screwdriver" colourway by Sheepy Time Knits

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

Week 7 - Photo Scavenger Hunt

2010-10-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

Tom Riddle's Diary

Helga Hufflepuff's Cup

Rowena Ravenclaw's Diadem

Marvolo Gaunt's Ring

Salazar Slytherin's Locket

Nagini the Snake

Harry Potter

Reducio Swap 12: Hogwarts Teachers

2010-10-22T16:58:00.000-07:00

I got my package today from Isabelle the Insightful (who forgot to post a note in it...) Total love!!!

mellowcreme pumpkins from Hagrid (my favorite treat this time of the year)
chocolate from Lupin (to help with dementors)
notebook from Filch (to make note of any rulebreakers)
tea and a mini scarf from Trelawney (she had too much sherry while knitting)
a mini sock from Dumbledore (I love the little snake on it.)
a small bottle of extra virgin olive oil from Snape (he says I should lose the driver and meet him in his office at midnight)

Here is a closeup of the little snake on the sock. The penny is there for size comparison. And I have no plans to ditch the driver and meet Snape at midnight.

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-10-22T14:55:00.001-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #196

1. One of my strongest beliefs is anything meant to happen will happen.

2. I saw a sandwich on Food Network once and it was huge! I never did understand why some people feel the need to see if they can eat something that big.

3. The sky is cloudy with a threat of rain and wind and cold, so the rainy season is not far away.

4. Having two little boys snuggle next to me is comforting to me.

5. I always thought I'd be just like my mom when I grew up. She is amazing.

6. The night sky was lit up, a howl was heard in the distance, and then I went outside to look at the full moon.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to some quiet knitting time, tomorrow my plans include taking the boys to Lowes for a Build and Grow project and Sunday, I want to watch the Nascar race from Martinsville, Virginia!

Have a Coke and a Knit...

2010-10-20T16:33:00.000-07:00

So I got my pal's hand made project completed. I can't post a picture of it here just in case she might see it and that would ruin the surprise. Plus the small order I placed for her is now winging its way here. Hope she likes it. Meanwhile, I have been getting some work done on my OWL projects for the House Cup. Plus trying to come up with fabulous ideas for next term that will ignite the spirit of the Slytherins. Which reminds me, I need to come up with something to write for the Slytherin blog latter on this month. That is all for now. Smile everyone...until next time.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Week 5 - Which Witch uses Which Wand?

2010-10-17T09:29:00.000-07:00

1. Vine Wood and Dragon Heartstring – Hermione Granger
2. Walnut and Dragon Heartstring – Belatrix Lestrange
3. Hawthorn and Unicorn Hair – Draco Malfoy
4. Hornbeam and Dragon Heartstring – Viktor Krum
5. Ash and Unicorn Hair – Cedric Diggory
6. Rosewood and Veela Hair – Fleur Delacour
7. Elder and Thestral Hair – Albus Dumbledore
8. Mahogany and Unknown Core – James Potter
9. Elm and Dragon Heartstring – Lucius Malfoy
10. Cherry and Unicorn Hair – Mary Cattermole
11. Yew and Phoenix Feather – Tom Riddle
12. Holly and Phoenix Feather – Harry Potter
13. Willow and Unicorn Hair – Ron Weasley (2nd wand)

Love Bites IV: Halloween Vamp Swap

2010-10-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween. Everything about it from the goodies to the scary movies. And this is my second Halloween Vampire Swap through Ravelry. I received these goodies from Valerie of Maine. It was a total squee moment when I opened the package. She even put my favorite perfume (Soft Musk from Avon) in the package.

Other goodies include:

a pair of Bella mittens

a Bella hat (to match the one she wore in Eclipse but just in black/red)

a vampire mug cozy

a set of Knit Picks DPNs in 2.5mm

2 patterns (Jardin Sauvage Vampire Mitts and Volturi Socks)

a sparkly red/gold scarf

1 skein of Trekking hand art in the Vulkan colourway

a spider bag that she sewed herself

a lovely bracelet

1 Avon lip balm (fall splendor)

*please note that the links above are Ravelry links*

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-10-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #195

1. Wow, it's amazing how much two little boys can giggle.

2. The laughter of two little boys is beautiful.

3. My favorite way to start a day is with a good cup of coffee.

4. I heard the doorbell ring and he walked in the door holding a pumpkin.

5. I look out my window and see a really old tree that is taller than the house.

6. Going on vacation is what I've been thinking about lately.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to some knitting time, tomorrow my plans include attending an apple festival at a local farm and watching the Nascar race from Charlotte and Sunday, I want to watch movies with the boys!

HLBOES Goodies...

2010-10-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-10-08T16:10:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #194

1. My favorite month is February because that is when the Nascar season begins.

2. Open your windows and catch a fresh breeze.

3. I love to sniff hand made soap.

4. Coffee cake is what I like to have as a treat for breakfast.

5. The hobby I enjoy most is knitting.

6. Lions, tigers, and bears... oh my!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to peace and quiet, tomorrow my plans include grocery shopping and Sunday, I want to the Nascar race since the season is coming to an end far too soon!

Week 4 Quiz & Essay

2010-10-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

Why does Harry accuse Remus Lupin of being a coward?

Because Remus wanted to abandon his child

Who is R.A.B.?

Sirius Black’s brother

According to legend, what would a person become if he could assemble the Deathly Hallows?

Master of death

What is Ariana Dumbledore rumored to be?

A Squib

What is written on Harry’s parents’ gravestone?

The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

Why does Krum want to fight Xenophilius Lovegood?

Because Lovegood wears Grindelwald’s mark

Why does Voldemort seek the Elder Wand?

To defeat Harry in a duel

Where did Dumbledore’s family live?

Godric’s Hollow

Whose eye does Harry see in his magic mirror shard?

Aberforth Dumbledore

What item does Harry steal from Gringotts?

The Hufflepuff Cup owned by Helga Hufflepuff

Where does Rita Skeeter get her information about Dumbledore?

From Bathilda Bagshot

What is inside the Snitch that Dumbledore leaves Harry?

The Resurrection Stone

Why does Dumbledore leave Ron a Deluminator?

To lead him back to Harry

Why has Hermione not read The Tales of Beedle the Bard?

She was raised by Muggles

What is Dumbledore’s greatest regret?

Helping Gellert Grindelwald

Whose mail did Snape open?

Petunia Dursley (Harry's Aunt)

What form does Snape’s Patronus take?

Silver doe

Why can the Sword of Gryffindor destroy Horcruxes?

It is impregnated with basilisk venom

What name is given to wizards who help Mudbloods?

Blood traitor

How do Harry and his friends enter the Ministry of Magic?

Through toilets

Who made Harry’s wand?

Ollivander

Nascar

2010-10-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

HP Knitting/Crochet House Cup News

2010-10-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

HP Knitting/Crochet House Cup News

2010-10-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Week 3 Word Association Game

2010-09-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Juice
Owl Post
Leaf Blower
Weasley Red-heads
Quaffle Quidditch
Hallow Tree
Mad Cow Disease
Dragon egg
Crystal rocks
Trees Forbidden Forest
Hermione "Know-it-all"
Hogwarts Castle
Burrow cool place to live
Dobby annoying
Horcrux dark magic
Ministry of Magic
Magic Hogwarts
Sirius constellation
Apple Pie
Juice Pumpkin
Candle Floating
Ghost Hunters
Snake Charmer
Wand Buttocks
Invisibility Cloak
Tent Bigger on the Inside
Spell books
Umbridge Psychotic Lady who wears pink
Dursely uptight
Prophet Daily Newspaper

Slytherin...

2010-09-27T15:02:00.000-07:00

Week 2 Blogging...Run away, run away!!!

2010-09-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

What 5 things would you not leave home without if you were going into hiding, camping, or running away and WHY.

1. The iPad... it can store books, patterns, and music.

2. A Towel

“A towel, it says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have. Partly it has great practical value. You can wrap it around you for warmth as you bound across the cold moons of Jaglan Beta; you can lie on it on the brilliant marble-sanded beaches of Santraginus V, inhaling the heady sea vapors; you can sleep under it beneath the stars which shine so redly on the desert world of Kakrafoon; use it to sail a miniraft down the slow heavy River Moth; wet it for use in hand-to-hand-combat; wrap it round your head to ward off noxious fumes or avoid the gaze of the Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal (such a mind-bogglingly stupid animal, it assumes that if you can’t see it, it can’t see you); you can wave your towel in emergencies as a distress signal, and of course dry yourself off with it if it still seems to be clean enough.

More importantly, a towel has immense psychological value. For some reason, if a strag (strag: non-hitch hiker) discovers that a hitch hiker has his towel with him, he will automatically assume that he is also in possession of a toothbrush, face flannel, soap, tin of biscuits, flask, compass, map, ball of string, gnat spray, wet weather gear, space suit etc., etc. Furthermore, the strag will then happily lend the hitch hiker any of these or a dozen other items that the hitch hiker might accidentally have “lost”. What the strag will think is that any man who can hitch the length and breadth of the galaxy, rough it, slum it, struggle against terrible odds, win through, and still knows where his towel is is clearly a man to be reckoned with.

Hence a phrase that has passed into hitchhiking slang, as in “Hey, you sass that hoopy Ford Prefect? There’s a frood who really knows where his towel is.” (Sass: know, be aware of, meet, have sex with; hoopy: really together guy; frood: really amazingly together guy.)”

Douglas Adams (from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy)

3. A Sonic Screwdriver... comes in handy for many situations.

4. The Race Car Driver... to keep me warm at night. :)

5. A backpack with an Undetectable Extension Charm placed on it...that way I could bring whatever else I need.

Happy Birthday Gryffinboy!!!

2010-09-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

8 years later...Where has the time gone?

Welcome Week Homework

2010-09-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

1.Someone with the same craft as you (either those listed above or another one).
Intarsia Bindoff (sewing)

2.Someone who was born in the same month as you.

Cassandra Goode (March)

3.Someone from a different country.

Saraid Swiftrunner is Canadian

4.A new HSKS Family member.

Caradoc Brocklehurst is a 1st year

5.Someone who has been in 3 or more HSKS swaps.

Hermione Bagnold

6.Someone who has a bigger stash than you! (And if your stash is the biggest, proudly say so!

Rowena Bladvak - 166 items stashed

7.Someone who both knits and crochets.
Emma Diggory

8.Someone who has the same favorite color as you.
Winifred Hornswaggle (blues and greens)

9.Someone who has the same favorite season/holiday as you.

Siobhan Mooney - Halloween

10.Someone who has the same favorite fiber as you.

Perenelle Tejedora (alpaca)

My information...
1. I knit, crochet, sew, spin (with a spinning wheel), dye, and do beadwork.
2. I am a March baby.
3. I live in the United States.
4. I am NOT a new HSKS family member.
5. I have been here since HSKS3.
6. I don't even have most of my stash on Ravelry.
7. Yes, I knit (since 2002) and crochet (since 1986).
8. My favorite color is greens, blues, dark purple, black, blood red, camouflage.
9. My favorite season is spring and my favorite holiday is Halloween.
10. My favorite fibers include merino wool and alpaca.

So I had great fun running around (like The Doctor) getting reacquainted with my fellow students and meeting the newbies. And then after that I went to a muggle spinning event which was great fun despite the lack of magic. I did remember how to use a drop spindle after two years of non-use and actually ended up with some pretty consistent spinning. Anyway, that is all for now.

House Cup News

2010-09-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins

2010-09-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Fill-Ins #189

1. Music makes me happy.

2. A good cup of coffee is what I like first thing in the morning.

3. The first thing I said this morning was: Crap. Another headache.

4. Something that doesn't take forever to cook; it's what's for dinner tonight.

5. It's all been a long week with the summer cold I caught.

6. Taking a nap is what I feel like doing right now.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a good night's sleep, tomorrow my plans include the Tualatin Crawfish Festival if I am well enough to go and celebrating The Chief's birthday and Sunday, I want to watch the Nascar race. Go Jeff Burton!

House Cup News

2010-08-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

Two more days until the beginning of the Fall 2010 term at the House Cup. Then the madness begins. I still have to swatch for the History of Magic OWL in which I will be featuring the Black sisters. But for now I will just relax in the 7th year dorm room with the Race Car Driver.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T14:27:00.001-07:00

HSKS11 Goodies

2010-08-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

I'll edit this post later...

HP Knitting/Crochet House Cup

2010-08-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

Sign-ups are now open for the Fall 2010 term. Sorting will be open until 11:59:59 pm, Pacific Time, aka GMT-8), on August 28th, 2010 with the results will be posted sometime on the morning of the 29th. Go here to find the sign-up information. Guess where I will be going for my 7th term?

Andromeda's Diary

2010-08-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Diary,

Well, another summer camp has come and is about to leave. I still have to mail out my pal's package but I have been down with a summer cold this past week. I just have to get it all packed up and then get Nemesis (the family owl) to deliver it. My spoiler pal, Genevra, informs me that my package is on its way. I really am looking forward to that. She knows all about my strange fondness for that Muggle Race Car Driver. And speaking of him, I actually found a picture of him not in a firesuit. I was pretty thrilled. But then, I think he would look good in a t-shirt and a pair of sweatpants. Well, off to finish up my pal's package and get it ready for mailing.