tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62231202012-01-30T20:21:11.374-08:00Suan KnitsVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.comBlogger3731100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-78986997338422311142012-01-30T20:21:00.000-08:002012-01-30T20:21:11.384-08:00A new KAL
Come join a new KAL. Find the information HERE. It's one of Liz Abinante's pattern called Flurries Cowl. And it's free.
I'm using Mini Mochi yarn (2 skeins) and here's what I started:
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-46001914250495153732011-12-31T13:07:00.000-08:002011-12-31T13:20:23.150-08:00My Dirty but Healthy Salad Before the year ends, I want to share a healthy recipe with my readers. Why dirty? With the balsamic vinegar dressing and ground flax seed, it looks like I dropped the salad in the mud-- lol!
I'm following a Fuhrman Nutritarian diet, eating mostly Greens, onions, mushrooms, berries, beans, and seeds. I don't do measurements well. Everything is a dash of this or Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-82594927771187213172011-12-31T12:12:00.000-08:002011-12-31T12:12:51.418-08:00For the coming year, I will dye more yarn and wool roving, knit more, quilt more, and design more free patterns to share with everyone. And I plan to sell yarn from my stash, yarn that I know I will never use. I will clean out my whole house, one room at a time.
That's my New Year's resolutions. Let's see how I fare.
Happy New Year to all of you. Here's to a healthier 2012!Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-35573099125396190132011-12-28T22:01:00.000-08:002011-12-28T22:01:34.006-08:00I'm writing this as I'm listening to a BBC 4 Global News podcast of Kim Jung Il's funeral and knitting at the same time.
I'm knitting the Bandana Cowl from the Purl Bee. Chunky yarn, yes, chunky, fat yarn, using jumbo needles as well. That means, I will finish fast--lol!
Day after Christmas, we went and saw Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol. The theater was packed but we found seats. I neverVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-10843159960049716072011-12-25T17:03:00.000-08:002011-12-25T17:03:31.019-08:00Merry Christmas, everyone!
Here we are, spending Christmas at my dad's. Everyone's home, lots of food as always. Last night, we took my aunt to the ER and spent several hours there. She's my dad's younger sister, 80 years old. She's had health problems for as long as I can remember. She's never married and lives alone. She took care of all of us, my sister and I, and all my other cousins, Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-82178405436005929922011-12-08T11:16:00.000-08:002011-12-08T11:19:24.089-08:00Red Schoolhouse I can't believe how easy it is to knit this one and it turns out really cute too. Depending on the color of yarn you use, it can be a schoolhouse or simply an old fashioned 1900's house.
You can find the pattern on her website:
Chalklegs.com
or on Ravelry:
1900 House
I'm knitting two more in different colors and will gift them to Emily's teacher. She's one of those people Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-13954818562615456902011-12-05T15:51:00.000-08:002011-12-05T15:51:11.908-08:00I hate being kept in suspense. Last Friday, I had some blood work done. I've been having these dry eyes symptoms paired with dry mouth. I googled them and came upon Sjogren's syndrome. And, the more I read, the more scared I became. I should have listened to hubby who told me to stop googling my symptoms. The internet can be a good thing and sometimes, a bad influence. I should have Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-2955177802423935622011-11-24T10:04:00.000-08:002011-11-24T10:04:21.865-08:00Happy thanksgiving to one and all!
What I'm serving today:
Roast turkey with gravy
stuffing
home made cranberry relish
cream of corn from Honeybaked Hams (yummy)
my homebaked ham
carrots and brussell sprouts with almonds in garlic sauce
home made mashed potatoes with garlic
pumpkin bars with sour cream frosting from fresh pumpkin
chinese green salad with sesame dressing
sweet potatoes topped Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-49060421022518015262011-11-10T12:41:00.000-08:002011-11-10T12:41:39.266-08:00Finished
Here is the finished Live Oak Shawlette:
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-386309577688767122011-10-27T11:11:00.000-07:002011-10-27T11:11:20.547-07:00A Star! My daughter Emily is getting an award today for scoring really high in her STAR tests. Although my kids are homeschooled, we are still a part of the public school system. Under Horizon Charter School, we are provided books, curriculum and budget to take elective classes. We report to a teacher every 21 days, who then checks and makes sure we are following "the rules" of the public schoolVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-11723189653417586222011-10-23T14:20:00.000-07:002011-10-23T14:20:00.738-07:00So far, this is what I've knitted of the Live Oak Shawlette. I like the pattern. It's very easy to follow and not boring.
This is one of the window displays at the H&M store at the Roseville Galleria. Pardon the blurriness of the picture. I did not have my camera, just my iPod.
We also went to Krispy Cream and got a dozen donuts. Emily picked this one as her favorite.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-55291770125629000262011-10-19T10:50:00.000-07:002011-10-19T10:50:19.758-07:00I wake up at 3 am in the morning and this is what I pick up:
When I was at Tuesday morning, I found some sock weight yarns, Araucania, wool/silk/nylon blend, on sale for $5.99 and 6.99 per skein. Not sure about the price difference but I bought 3 skeins, about 430 yds per skein. Not bad. I have a lot of ongoing projects but this one helps me with the insomnia problem.
The project is the Live Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-48071183117196211352011-10-12T15:08:00.000-07:002011-10-12T15:08:47.074-07:00I have been trying not to write this because it depresses me. I hate being sick and this chronic cough is getting the better of me. There is this one gadget that saved my sanity. It's called a Peak Flow Meter. First of all, my Xray came out fine and so did my Spirometry (breathing test). So, what could be wrong with me? Asthma?
I have been to my doctor 3 times this month and twice last month. Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-11485404750861808362011-09-29T09:42:00.000-07:002011-09-29T09:42:24.077-07:00Living with Asthma
I think I have asthma. Further tests are being done. I passed the first breathing test and my Xray is okay but I have chest tightness and cough. It is scary especially at night. It's hard to sleep and breathe. And sometimes, I think all of it is just in my head. I get panicky when I think I can't breathe and so, I can't breathe. A vicious cycle.
Knitting relaxes me and Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-3035987058438277492011-09-21T08:53:00.001-07:002011-09-21T08:53:58.202-07:00
This is the cloth I wove yesterday. Yarn used is Peaches and Creme cotton yarn.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-32018827690011225162011-09-19T16:02:00.000-07:002011-09-19T16:02:39.400-07:00
Weaving on a Hazel Rose Loom. I bought this loom from their website, set it aside for a few years, and have now just picked it up. Quick gratification since you finish really fast.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-47176040952463521522011-09-02T10:03:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:05:03.959-07:00
Latest spinning news: 4 ounces of Merino Silk variegated roving (Before)
Handspun singles on the wheel (after)
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-11169146739309168392011-08-23T14:38:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:06:32.775-07:00The grimace on Emily's face was not really a grimace. Her mouth was just too full of deep fried Oreo goodness. Waiting for her was a slab of tater twists, all bought at the Santa Cruz boardwalk--lol! We had a wonderful mini vacation at Santa Cruz. I swear, all we did was eat.
We checked in at the Best Western Suites near the Boardwalk. I honestly don't remember ever using Best Western. It's a Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-42069483783841900102011-08-15T10:32:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:06:53.465-07:00Picture taken in front of the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. We had a mini vacation to Santa Cruz, and on the way back home, we stopped by WMH. I've been there in the early 80's and found this place really weird. It still is, 29 years later. The kids were fascinated by all the weirdness and the way Sarah Winchester had the house built. I'm going to include the link to the
house and Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-73193520245877835142011-07-22T21:56:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:09:04.219-07:00I thought I'd share one of my own designs.
My cousins from Canada are here for a visit. We took them to the Jelly Belly factory. Inspite of the long line and 30 minute wait, I think they enjoyed it. The free candy also helped. We also bought some of our own favorites at $9.00 per pound of Jelly Bellys. They had some odd flavors which fortunately we did NOT try: Barf, Pencil Shavings, Booger,Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-42635985686560515282011-07-19T10:50:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:09:23.596-07:00The yellow blob of lace knitting is now finished and here is the shawl. Sunflower fields shawl, with Emily modelling.
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-59795229104572496262011-07-06T10:29:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:09:41.594-07:00A new shawl in the making: Sunflower Field Shawl by Natalie Servant.
here's my version, so far:
I am using a hank of Knitpicks Merino Lace yarn which I hand dyed myself. I used a mixture of Yellow Sun and Astec Gold acid dyes. I think it turned out pretty yellow-lol!Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-51912062370848171392011-06-30T11:06:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:10:16.552-07:00This is the crocheted sock yarn blanket I am working on and it is growing slowly. It's getting heavier as well since each square is done with single crochet. Very dense even though I'm using a size G hook.
The Spitzbergen shawl as part of a Knit Along. It is finally finished, only one year late after the KAL ended. I used my own handpainted lace yarn. I should have used a single color lace Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-55637285850271313392011-06-02T16:56:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:07:20.272-07:00Spinning Cashmere! This is a really old supported spindle that I bought years ago. It's a super spinner. You spin on that little dent in the center of the block. I've finished and washed the yarn and will soon post a picture.
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-76237322749007123372011-05-17T08:39:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:11:04.388-07:00Alien flower from space. I was so impressed with this flower from the San Francisco Zoo. Lots of different varieties there.
Some proof that I've been knitting. One of those long fingerless mitts that can cover the whole hands but when folded down, becomes fingerless. I have no idea what it's called.
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-46779583808956552102011-05-10T17:18:00.000-07:002011-05-10T17:18:16.647-07:00Things I notice about myself lately:
1. I am very impatient.
2. I don't really care if the Sacramento Kings stayed or not.
3. I'm sad that Arnold and Maria are splitting up after 25 years of marriage.
4. I love my kids no matter what. I don't like what my oldest is doing with her life but she's still my oldest and I can only pray for her.
5. I like exercising, working in the garden, and Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-85361838123000354242011-05-01T14:57:00.001-07:002011-05-01T14:57:23.179-07:00Emily: Any new Willow?
me: No.
Emily: Darn!Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-78912472444852799272011-04-13T10:25:00.000-07:002011-04-13T10:25:41.491-07:00
I've picked up this project that has been hibernating for a while. Now that I'm knitting socks again, I have a lot of leftover sock yarn. Hence, the blanket. These are crocheted 4 inch squares, knitted from sock yarn. Wool and nylon blend and all superwash.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-5184234263429825242011-04-11T15:49:00.001-07:002011-09-02T10:07:47.859-07:00
This is what I'm spinning for April, 4 oz handpainted Corriedale cross roving.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-38921677731260351452011-03-30T12:28:00.000-07:002011-09-02T10:08:04.310-07:00My spinning homework for March
Before: a jumbled pile of Merino fiber from Ashland Bay
After: 2 skeins of jeweltone Merino yarn
Before: carded long wool of unknown breed
After: 2 skeins of sage colored yarn
Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-52943435621775247552011-03-17T12:51:00.000-07:002011-03-17T12:51:12.938-07:00I caved in It was just too much pressure. I read Jared Flood's blog. You see, aside from being a gifted photographer and knitwear designer, he also sells yarn. Not just any yarn but American-made (spun) yarn from American wool shorn from American sheep. What stopped me before was the price ($12.50 per 140 yard skein plus shipping of course). Here's the picture of what I bought. I'm just going toVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-52164939194518810352011-03-14T14:09:00.000-07:002011-03-14T14:09:02.736-07:00I'm an avid reader of Anne Hanson's blog, Knitspot. She has some stunning patterns for lace and socks. One day, I read about the Great Northern Yarns company. So, I ordered me some:
These are amazing, soft, huggable yarns. Craig is the owner and he sells these at affordable prices. He ships really fast too. These are blends of yak and cashmere, mink, milk, and cashmere, and 100% cashmere. Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-41276510172620092942011-03-11T12:56:00.000-08:002011-03-11T12:56:07.510-08:00An earthquake happened last night, in Japan, with an 8.9 magnitude on the Richter scale. A 23-foot tsunami followed almost immediately. Huge devastation in Japan. I can only imagine the fear and need for help. I don't know how other countries can help since the airport is closed due to damage. We will help, I'm sure.
I experienced the Loma Prieta quake in 1989 while I was 7 months pregnant Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-72650205927823486532011-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:002011-03-08T09:24:37.599-08:00In search of... the perfect podcast. Okay, so here goes. I went to iTunes and did a search for "fiber podcast".
I came across this one-- American based, hosted by 2 girls. I heard a hissing noise in the background. The girls giggled a lot, said a lot of "yaaayys".
So I move on to the next episode. This one had clacking noises, more giggles, more "yaayyys". And why do they end each sentence Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-44667353512032437632011-03-07T07:59:00.000-08:002011-03-07T07:59:35.215-08:00Half a century Yes, my friends and those 7 people that read my blog, I turned 50 yesterday, March 6th. Man, just hearing that number makes me feel old. The good thing is, I don't feel old. I feel the same as when I was 30. However, I don't remember how it felt to be 30. The memory is the first thing to go, yadda, yadda, yadda.
My dad gave me a card that says even though I turned 50, I looked Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-20774256678478505572011-03-05T15:28:00.000-08:002011-03-05T15:28:13.314-08:00I've succumbed ...to knitting the Cobblestone pullover by Brooklyn Tweed. The Electric Sheep keeps talking about it, how easy it is to knit and how wonderful it is to wear, even for a girl. So, I will knit it for myself.
I'm sure you've all heard of the boyfriend sweater curse. I'm not superstitious and I don't believe in curses but I'm not one to challenge it. I am knitting the smallest Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-20875422366827157042011-03-02T07:35:00.000-08:002011-03-02T07:35:42.341-08:00I was at Joann's when I saw these 2 lonely skeins of chunky yarns. They're 100% acrylic but very soft, the Debra Norville brand called Serenity Chunky. I simply couldn't resist. Plus, they were on sale too. So, I did this simple fair isle neckwarmer or cowl which turned out really warm because of the stranding. This pattern has not been tested so feel free to email me if you find errors. I Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-43793639278598692722011-03-01T18:59:00.000-08:002011-03-01T18:59:05.219-08:00Why I listen to British podcasts ...more than I listen to US made podcasts:
1. I love love the accent
2. I like the dry sense of humor
3. they are more interesting
4. they are more professionally made
For example: I was listening to this American mom who knits. First, I found her funny and witty and her experiences, similar to mine. Then, her child started crying and talking in the background.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-12441370658095601432011-02-27T17:11:00.000-08:002011-02-27T17:11:41.195-08:00This creamy goodness is the cormo/silk blend I bought at Lambtown years ago and never spun. Thanks to this Spindlicity spin-along, I am getting lots spun up. I got 3 skeins of chunky yarn from this fiber.
These 3 skeins are the English wool I bought from Ashland Bay. Finally spun up too. Now, what will I knit with these yarns??Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-8322843893814534402011-02-24T09:11:00.000-08:002011-02-24T09:11:25.537-08:00Two more podcasts I found via the Hoxton Handmade website. One is Cast-on. The podcaster is an American knitter who now lives in Wales. funny stuff.
This second one is simply amazing. This American Life is hosted by guys, non-knitter guys. I'm a fairly new listener so I still can't tell who's who. One of the podcasts is about this chimpanzee Lucy who was raised by humans and then let go Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-26271007379090185712011-02-16T23:37:00.000-08:002011-02-16T23:37:10.287-08:00I can't get over this podcast thing. I love listening to audio books while I'm knitting. The local library has a ton of downloadable books for FREE. Amazing!
But one day, I came over this podcast via Vera's blog. It's British-made and very funny: the Electric Sheep. I've always admired British dry humor coupled with the lovely British accent. I figured if I listened to this podcast long Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-17491540588589352142011-02-10T10:01:00.000-08:002011-02-10T10:01:33.481-08:00Joel took the day off last Friday and we were able to go to San Francisco and visit the Exploratorium. Now, we go to San Francisco quite often and are familiar with the streets. We know where the Exploratorium is located since we've been there before but once again, we got lost getting there.
We ended up heading towards the Golden Gate Bridge. We immediately took the last exit before the bridgeVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-1749171199672080492011-02-09T11:04:00.000-08:002011-02-09T11:04:17.715-08:00I am knitting another Thermis cowl, a very addicting pattern. Once in a while, you get those kinds of patterns, once knitted, you want more. Normally for me, once a knit a pattern, I don't want to do it again. There is another one called the Eternity Scarf. Here's a picture of the scarf. This scarf I've knitted 7 times and promptly gave them all away, except for one. That was for me.
On our Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-6948080476756223642011-02-03T10:23:00.000-08:002011-02-03T10:23:55.272-08:00What am I knitting now?
A neckwarmer called Thermis! Neckwarmers, sometimes called Cowls, are those thingies that go over your head and rest on your neck like a scarf. Except, there are no tails to flap around. Picture a turtleneck, detachable, and less choking. I'm using Misti Alpaca in fuschia (although it looks red in the pic). Beside it is a book I'm currently reading. Love Mary Higgins Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-48785306764646368102011-01-28T12:39:00.000-08:002011-01-28T12:39:02.918-08:00I finished this scarf weeks ago. Fun and easy to knit. The yarn was one of Debra Norville's acrylics which doesn't feel like acrylic at all. There's none of the stickiness or scrunchiness that characterizes acrylic yarns. It's called the Unscrunchable scarf.
This one is the Thorpe hat. Again, the yarn is 100% acrylic called Marble yarn, chunky, and super soft.
You can see a pattern here. ThisVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-76729937371937000452011-01-25T14:55:00.000-08:002011-01-25T14:55:38.057-08:00Below is the handspun black and white Jacob wool, spun chunky. I must admit I get bored spinning tiny laceweight yarn. Spinning chunky is now more my style. It goes by fast.
This one totally contradicts what I just said. Extreme manual spinning using a drop spindle. This one takes forever but for some reason, it relaxes me. And it's so portable. I finished handspinning this batt in a few Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-16104483973536143452011-01-20T08:10:00.000-08:002011-01-20T08:10:24.209-08:0011 months from the day my mom passed away, her one and only brother succumbed to cancer as well. Uncle Estoy passed away Jan 20th, in the Philippines. I got the sad news via email from my cousins back home.
One of the reasons I went home to the islands last June 2010 was to see my mom's sisters and brother, because they couldn't be here for the funeral. I got to see and spend time with all ofVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-37744256972453094202011-01-06T10:34:00.000-08:002011-01-06T10:47:46.306-08:00okay, so I am spinning again. Here's what I plan to spin this month:My purple handcarded batt, a mix of some unknown superwash wool and kid mohair.This one is Jacob wool from a local farmer.And these are what I'm using to spin them with. Impressive, huh?For those of you non-spinners, these are drop spindles (because you drop them on the floor no matter how experienced a spinner you are). And Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-43943564659444131322010-12-31T14:28:00.001-08:002010-12-31T14:34:28.117-08:00The new year is what we make of it. I can say that 2010 sucked for me. We lost our mom and mom-in-law. But what do I know? Everything happens for a purpose. Had my mom lived, she would be suffering from the cancer. Had my mom-in-law lived, she would still be carrying all her childrens' problems. This coming year is so unknown it's scary. Look at it another way: it's a clean slate, a freshVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-80636929072361537422010-12-27T17:50:00.000-08:002010-12-27T18:02:55.234-08:00Christina and Emily taken at the Christmas tree in Disneyland. We got a chance to pick up Christina from her dorm and take her around with us in LA/Anaheim. Poor girl hasn't eaten "real" food since she moved to LA. She's been living on Ramen and junk food. With no car to use, she walks everywhere. Sunset view at Huntington Beach, the snobbiest and most unfriendly beach in CA. With nowhere toVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-85981966415557014822010-12-25T15:06:00.001-08:002010-12-25T15:08:05.871-08:00Have a Merry Christmas, everyone. May God bless you with His abundant blessing this coming year.Tomorrow, I start knitting for next Christmas. I love to procrastinate and believe me, starting Christmas knitting in October never works. I never make it.I will start with Christmas ornaments. woo hooo!Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-76951914228070232932010-12-23T19:49:00.000-08:002010-12-23T19:59:09.502-08:00I realized that these past Christmases, I spent the few days before Christmas stressing out. Shopping for presents and stressing out over gift wrapping, cooking, baking, and running from one gathering to the next.This is our first Christmas without my mom and it seems that I stopped caring about all the stress. I bought gifts only for the important people in my life. And this Christmas, I'm Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-64312777213577261432010-12-21T12:44:00.000-08:002010-12-21T12:47:31.367-08:004 days before Christmas and I still haven't gone shopping. I live on the edge.I am completely addicted to Angry Birds. On the other hand, I quit playing Facebook games. I now have more time to knit. That is, if I'm not playing Angry Birds.I've finished several shawls, scarves, and cowls (the new rage) but no pictures to show. Some of the cowls were given away as gifts, as soon as they're Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-34761670187957611562010-12-20T19:50:00.000-08:002010-12-20T19:57:54.984-08:00It's Christmastime, my favorite time of the year. I wish you a Merry Christmas. It's Christmas-- not Happy Holidays. Of course, Christmas is a holiday, and if you don't celebrate Christmas, that's too bad. It's my holiday, a Christian holiday and I will greet you a Merry Christmas. I refuse to be politically correct and if my Christmas offends you, there's absolutely nothing I can do about itVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-21667209124955086912010-12-12T18:14:00.000-08:002010-12-12T18:17:36.361-08:00$278 darn dollars for my allegedly speeding ticket and I never got a courtesy notice in the mail either. I had to go online and research it myself. What if I didn't research it? Then I'd have to pay the fine plus an added on penalty. And the State makes money off of me.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-34580345719714763512010-12-10T20:50:00.000-08:002010-12-10T21:01:25.329-08:0015 more days 'til Christmas! Usually, I have the chance of enjoying the few months, weeks, before Christmas but not this year. It's coming too fast and I'm not ready for it.Today, 16 years ago, Joel and I got married. I woke up this morning to a dozen roses, a box of 2 dozen See's chocolates, and 3 potted indoor plants. He knows me really well even though I keep telling him not to waste Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-74109537647721665482010-11-28T21:14:00.001-08:002010-11-28T21:25:38.681-08:00Thanksgiving has come and passed. The family has become smaller. Our first Thanksgiving without mom. Christina did not make it home. She decided to stay in LA for the 4-day weekend. But, we know she'll be home during the Christmas holidays.My sister and her husband also decided to go on vacation to Mexico during the Thanksgiving holiday.' nuff said.My oldest daughter, Danielle, was here Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-67498523463329371172010-11-06T20:17:00.000-07:002010-11-06T20:27:55.566-07:00We went to Sutter Gold Mine, up towards the hills of Amador County and Sutter Creek, here in the foothills of Sierra Nevada. It was quite a field trip for the kids and even hubby was quite impressed.Being a miner is not a job for most people. Our tour guide was Charlie, about 5'6" or so, with this long gray beard halfway down his chest and long shaggy blond hair. I think he's about sixty but Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-41256734906312781682010-10-29T23:21:00.001-07:002010-10-29T23:28:53.002-07:00I got a speeding ticket today. Cop claims I was going 59 on a 45 zone. I think it wasn't that high. I say I was going 50 because I slowed down when I saw him from afar, sitting on his bike . And I glanced on my speedometer when I saw him, sitting on his bike. He clocked me way before I saw him ( I think). This is where the doubts come in.Was I really speeding? ( But I don't speed. I'm a Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-7881518706706196392010-10-15T21:43:00.000-07:002010-10-15T22:06:14.429-07:00Scotts Flat Lake in Truckee, CAThis is where our church holds the Annual Family Camp. This is the view we see when we wake up in the morning, as soon as we open the tent flaps. Imus, Cavite, PhilippinesThis is the backyard to our house in the Philippines. To the left is the garage/carport. Notice the still young mango tree in the center. To the right is a couple of coconut trees and some Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-18989036671439545242010-10-12T10:12:00.000-07:002010-10-12T10:36:03.819-07:00The weather outside is cool. Actually, it was cold this morning when I drove my son to school. But during the day, it gets pretty warm. I love Fall, better than the other 3 seasons. Growing up in the Philippines, we only had two seasons, HOT and Rainy. From March to June, it gets really hot and humid. Come July all the way to September/October, the monsoons come and it's almost non stop Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-16980924655528679252010-10-08T11:11:00.000-07:002010-10-08T11:21:48.103-07:00What?!! It's October already?Knitting: I've finished 2 cardigans, 2 shrugs, 1 lace shawl, and currently knitting another cardigan. I'm obsessed that way. When I go into quilting, I forget about knitting completely and have a tendency to quilt for one whole year before I go into something else.I've discovered Zumba. eyahhhh! About 20 or so years ago, I was a dancer. I danced modern jazz andVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-17300737579581901602010-08-27T11:13:00.000-07:002010-08-27T11:23:49.747-07:00 Just revisiting some past work I'm giving you some pictures, of handspun yarns, handpainted yarn, and some past work:On the left is a huge hank of rustic silk lace yarn. The blue and green yarns are Merino/bamboo sock yarns.Some handspun yarns, all Merino. These are BFL fingering weight yarns, meant for socks but I think they're too thin and would be more suited for lacework. Some silk hankies Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-88832353295021776212010-08-18T21:29:00.000-07:002010-08-18T21:37:04.982-07:00I am so inspired by people who show their handspun yarns. I myself have spun several skeins these past few days. I still have several bags of raw wool that I have to wash, card and spin. And some yarns to hand dye. I've been spending so much time on Facebook and it's addicting games. If I didn't, I'd have more time to do the other stuff. I've finished some shawls and currently knitting a Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-75743448276731398402010-08-07T21:01:00.000-07:002010-08-07T21:21:10.171-07:00It's been bad the past few days. I've been missing my mom again. I miss her everyday but the past 2 days had me crying a lot. One of my cousins in VA Beach made a comment on FB about his mom making him very cranky. After reading it, I broke down in tears. I made a comment that I'd take my mom's nagging anytime if I can hear her voice again. That was it! You just don't know how much you'd Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-90748845482374656792010-07-29T19:29:00.000-07:002010-07-29T19:44:57.476-07:00Another family picture taken with a view of Taal volcano.This was taken at the Palace in the Sky, a vacation home for the Marcoses that never got finished because he was overthrown. It's not familiar to me since we had already left the Philippines when it was being built. I wish I had taken a picture of this structure. It would have been magnificent had it been finished. There were no walls, Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-9015950763457882402010-07-11T23:16:00.000-07:002010-07-11T23:42:00.160-07:00Little red houseOne of the fascinating things we saw in Manila was this red house (smack dab on the center of this photo). This was in one of the poorest areas along the Coastal highway. That is a 4-story house, only a few feet wide. I swear, if you stretch out your arms, you can touch both walls. It's in what we call the "squatters' area". Lacking land, they have to build up.The yellow jeep is Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-70054772701025945582010-07-06T19:51:00.001-07:002010-07-06T20:01:02.547-07:00We're home!! Actually, we've been home since Saturday.I have a lot to say about Hawaiian Airlines. It's very convenient to fly Hawaiian since it's the only airlines, that we know of, flying from Sacramento to the Phils. But it's plagued with delays. Going to the US and coming back is a never-ending list of delays. We almost missed the connecting flight from Hawaii to Sac because of Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-15960761147192766182010-06-25T17:22:00.000-07:002010-06-25T18:55:05.128-07:00We have been here in the Philippines for a week now. The last time I came home was in 1993. Now, it's a total culture shock. First, it's the climate. Temps range in the 80s but very very humid. In a matter of minutes, you feel your skin getting real sticky. I don't remember the streets being so narrow either. Tricycles are everywhere competing with the passenger jeeps and private cars. Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-71144717396475404972010-06-14T11:06:00.000-07:002010-06-14T11:16:13.174-07:00Circles ClothMint Green baby boy Cardi This is a pattern from Mary Rich Goodwin of One Piece knitting. These two baby sweaters are the Concentric Circles Cardigan, a free pattern on Ravelry. The pink one is larger than the pattern calls for. I made adjustments myself. This one goes to my niece Ava in Virginia Beach. This last one is the Bubble Frock, also from Ravelry, perfect for Ava's Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-5680080445026445872010-06-09T18:37:00.000-07:002010-06-09T18:47:09.944-07:00My mom's marker came in, after 3 months of waiting. Somehow, this picture makes me sad. My dad, myself and the kids went there, rags in hand and went to clean. Freshly put in, it had mud and stain all over. The good thing about it is we now can put flowers ( as seen on the center of the marble marker). It comes with its own flower vase.You see, we had this cat and mouse game with the Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-76010346059456779192010-05-28T11:20:00.000-07:002010-05-28T11:28:35.195-07:00Sutter's FortOn one of our field trips to Sutter's Fort, this is what we saw-- spinning wheels, huge ones.Sunbonnet SamOne of Rachel's Knit Alongs. I believe they call this one Sunbonnet Sam. I am knitting Sunbonnet Sue and will post it soon.Wooly Wormhead Knit ALongAnother cute beret from Wooly Wormhead as part of her Knit Along last year.RoseMay's knit along for Mother's Day as part of the Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-87077462349266339092010-05-08T21:24:00.000-07:002010-05-08T21:33:22.509-07:00Happy Mother's day to all the moms out there. I hope you get the pampering you need/want. You, I mean, we, all deserve it--lol!Me, I just want a nice quiet time with my hubby and kids and my dad. We will go to the cemetery, bring some flowers, maybe a balloon or two, and release them heavenwards. Ahh, we still miss my mom. It has become a routine, every Sunday, after church to go visit my Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-80870689479394649442010-04-17T14:53:00.000-07:002010-04-17T15:16:21.660-07:00I think Sacramento is bypassing spring and going straight to summer. It's nice and warm here. I find myself hanging out more at the cemetery. It's funny because back home in the Philippines, people are scared of the cemetery. We're told stories of what goes on there at night, ghosts, and lots of scary stuff. Here in the US, cemeteries are so peaceful and quiet and hardly a soul around (pun Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-65246559719000853342010-04-07T10:04:00.000-07:002010-04-07T10:18:41.080-07:00A Reversible Cowl I knitted and designed. The yarn I used is my own handspun handpainted yarn from Merino Roving. I will write the pattern down and make this available for free. I just have to find my notes, arghh...This is the Unscrunchable Scarf, a very easy pattern from the Miss Wooly Knits website. The yarn is one of Debra Norville's microfiber yarn sold at Joann's. Very soft and self Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-20911403855296642542010-04-04T15:17:00.001-07:002010-04-04T15:27:39.432-07:00Thank you, Candace, for your comforting words. You don't know this but I look forward to your comments because you've gone through what I'm experiencing right now.Easter service at our church was so timely. Not only that but Dr. Charles Stanley's preaching on TV answered so many of my and my husband's questions about heaven. I think God knows we have so many questions and doubts and somehow, Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-47004204028673946322010-03-30T22:04:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:15:30.778-07:00Sometimes, I don't want to write what I'm feeling, sharing it with people, on this blog. But what the heck, this is my blog. These past few days have been really hard. I mistakenly thought it was getting better, the sadness going away but it comes back.My dad went back to the Philippines for a month to take care of stuff there. I am missing him too. I miss my mom as well. That is more Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-36169986101026416192010-03-20T09:21:00.000-07:002010-03-20T09:27:49.713-07:00Knitting is therapeutic and it's helping. I've started knitting one of my lace shawls again, part of a Knit Along. It seems like ages ago when I started it. I don't know why but knitting lace is therapy--lol! SPITZBERGEN is the name, designed by Monika Eckert and her website is HERE.I've actually knitted more than this but I left my camera at home, so, no new pics.The Kris Knits washcloth Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-33636193505630134022010-03-09T18:51:00.000-08:002010-03-09T18:59:01.413-08:00How many days has it been? I've been dreaming about my mom these past 2 nights. My daughter asked me if that's how my mom "speaks" to us. She dreamt about her too. I'm knitting this one cloth KAL sponsored by Kris Knits and for the life of me, I can't finish it. I'm a pretty fast knitter and one small cloth shouldn't faze me but this one's kicking my butt. I love Kris Knits' designs. Here isVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-62180469132374631492010-03-03T21:17:00.000-08:002010-03-03T21:27:31.691-08:00We practically moved in to my dad's house. The kids love it. I am thankful that I have a very understanding husband.Today, the grandkids took my dad to see Avatar in 3D. And he enjoyed himself. He hasn't seen a movie (in a theater) in such a long time. He was so amazed at the 3D thing. And they all shared a huge tub of popcorn. Hubby and I went grocery shopping.It seems that life is Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-54189380004701485532010-02-24T15:44:00.000-08:002010-02-24T15:49:36.885-08:00Day 3 without mom. We are simply hanging in here, taking it a day at a time. That's all we can do. First viewing is on Friday and I am so not looking forward to it. First time I will see my mom. We are all missing her really bad, specially my dad. These past few days is like being in limbo. Anything can set us off into a crying session. My kids and I and hubby too have been staying with Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-47770357259177348792010-02-22T18:21:00.001-08:002010-02-22T18:24:22.698-08:00My mom passed away and went to be with our Lord yesterday afternoon, Sunday, Feb 21st at 2:40 pm. No more pain, no more suffering. At around 2:20 pm, same day, my mother-in-law suffered a massive heart attack, went into a comma and died. We lost 2 moms within 20 minutes of each other.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-2082352857992326272010-02-15T21:29:00.000-08:002010-02-15T21:39:30.657-08:00There are good days and there are bad days. My mom is still experiencing shortness of breath even with small movements, like walking to the bathroom and back. She's now using a wheelchair. Doctors say the the cancer is back and is now in her trachea. This causes her excessive coughing which then leads her to be out of breath. They have put her on oxygen as well which seems to help a lot. I Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-73367729000483769692010-02-13T00:41:00.000-08:002010-02-13T00:45:58.801-08:00KAL I finished this Girls' Night out sock Knit ALong sponsored by Knitters Brewing company and here are some pics:Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-85792740972513672132010-02-11T21:39:00.001-08:002010-02-11T21:41:17.223-08:00Mom is sick and I am so worried. It's hard to write about it. Trying to get my mind on something else, trying to keep my faith strong because that's all I can fall back on. Trying to knit something and maybe finish up some stuff. Just so worried.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-29182233498962664162010-02-02T19:06:00.001-08:002010-02-02T19:16:48.724-08:00I was going to write something about this ugly cardigan sweater but I stopped . It's a knitting pattern by a well known designer. It's asymmetrical, meaning, it's not even. The right side front is longer than the left and the button is placed in such a way that it seems like you matched the wrong buttonhole with the wrong button, or vice versa. The neckline looks like somebody tried to rip Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-15483023795336704952010-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:002010-01-27T08:23:46.057-08:00Some pics of inclement weather here in Sacramento:One minute it was raining and the next, the sun came out followed a few minutes later, by a rainbow. I now have 2 Gretels. The light pink one is going to Mica, my niece, in Canada.Crocheted earflap hat and a crocheted beret, both going to Yolo Wool Mill. Yarns used were from the mill.That's it for now. I'll have more later.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-64247393109999428682010-01-20T14:17:00.000-08:002010-01-20T14:26:34.145-08:00Here is the back view of the Leaflet scarf from Knitspot. I'm using Regia Silk sock yarn, very soft.Here is to right side view. It's not mindless knitting because you really have to keep track of where you're at. I'm using the graph/chart.This was going to be a plain beret but I decided to add a little bit of lace to break the monotony. The yarn is Patons Decor, a 70%/30% acrylic wool blend.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-68598731917778272542010-01-18T00:02:00.000-08:002010-01-18T00:07:27.487-08:00In an effort to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti, I am supporting p/hop. It stands for pennies per hour of pleasure. They have free patterns donated by generous knitters. Each time you download or knit one of these patterns, you can donate any amount of money which is then used to support Medecins Sans Frontieres, just like doctors without borders. The website can better explain Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-52747765421055408872010-01-12T22:59:00.000-08:002010-01-12T23:05:36.953-08:00I am starting a new project (but of course) and I don't care that I still have others unfinished. I will finish them all but right now, I will be knitting THIS. I've been perusing her patterns, scarves, shawls, even socks, mostly lace and finally bought two of her patterns. On this first one, I will use TOFUTSIE. I know it's for socks but it's too soft and I want to use it for this scarf.THISVicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-24064194251663863502010-01-05T10:24:00.000-08:002010-01-05T10:45:06.502-08:00 Some finished items in 2009 This is the Just Enough Ruffles Scarf designed by Laura Chau of Cosmic Pluto Knits. Next time I knit this, I'll use a less scratchy yarn. It was unexpectd that this yarn turned out scratchy. It was by Naturallycaron.com yarn called COUNTRY (75% acrylic 25% merino).The Feather Shawl by Hand Jive Knits. Darlene's patterns are charted (no written out instructions). Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-3745242226320892562010-01-01T12:09:00.000-08:002010-01-01T12:12:06.302-08:00There are so many things I want to do, to knit, to learn. I want to take the kids to Hawaii. The 2 younger ones haven't been there yet. So, we are going in June.I want to knit more sweaters. Since I've started knitting, I've probably knitted about 4 or 5 and I want to knit more. I will be knitting the Central Park Hoodie.I want to learn American Sign Language. hmmm. I should enroll in a Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-65354501218295027202009-12-27T23:07:00.001-08:002009-12-27T23:16:25.359-08:00I had this thought for a minute and immediately abandoned it. I know of knitters who keep track of everything they knit in a year. Quilters too. And people who sew ( I don't want to call them sewers, or maybe seamstress?). Anyhoo, they take pictures, keep track of dates started and dates finished, keep a diary maybe, a scrapbook of some sort, patterns used, type of yarn, needles, yada, yada, Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-74568352775038411862009-12-24T16:36:00.000-08:002009-12-24T16:37:04.275-08:00I do believe that Jesus is the reason for the season.MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-60815876695871343022009-12-19T15:30:00.000-08:002009-12-19T15:40:06.627-08:00I am listening to books on tape! Books are downloaded from the local library onto my MP3 player. I can knit and work on the computer and listen at the same time. It makes me exercise too. Walking on the treadmill is no longer boring. today, I walked a mile while listening to Carl Hiaasen's "Scat".Hiaasen is funny! The first book of his that I read was Nature Girl. Actually read it with my Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-39215872191665509482009-12-17T10:33:00.000-08:002009-12-17T10:46:50.636-08:00 I have this aunt... My dad came from a big family. He has 3 brothers and 4 sisters. One of the sisters is upset with me. My aunt, this aunt, is different. They all grew up in the Philippines (and so did I) and migrated to the US at different stages of their lives. Some came in the 60s, we came in the 80s, my aunt came just recently, about 4 or so years ago. She is always helpful and I Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-85198406615025909492009-12-15T12:20:00.000-08:002009-12-15T12:24:14.072-08:00It is cold and dreary and cold. All the leaves have fallen and I haven't seen the sun in days. I'm posting this picture of our front yard taken one early summer morning, when the grass was still dewy and the sun just peaking from the rooftops.I am going back to knitting and finish these mitts.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-62155846556686751832009-12-11T21:18:00.001-08:002009-12-11T21:23:12.890-08:00 The socks I knitted as part of the KAL with Through the Loops, designed by Kirsten Kapur.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-17899410925661721352009-12-11T19:41:00.000-08:002009-12-11T19:53:02.055-08:00I joined a sock KAL sponsored by the Knitter's Brewing Co., starting Jan 15th. I ordered the sock kit, which happily comes with the first clue. This is what I knitted so far:I like these kinds of KAL (knit along). I just finished one with Through the Loops.And for the life of me, I can't post this picture. Something wrong with the mouse.Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223120.post-8496134491458892542009-12-10T23:16:00.000-08:002009-12-10T23:25:16.645-08:00Today, my mom and I met with a new pulmonary specialist. She was wonderful. She did some tests, asked many questions, explained a lot and answered our questions. She has some options and is willing to work with us. Again, there are no definitive answers but we explained to her what we wanted, or hoped to accomplish. It's really simple. We want my mom to be able to breathe easier or achieve Vicki Suanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00070253043397412615noreply@blogger.com0