tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80738830674291645292024-03-13T08:56:08.329-04:00Live To Knit, Knit To LiveMy ramblings and grumblings about knitting and the stuff that takes me away from knitting.Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-79221077494457733162011-02-14T19:04:00.002-05:002011-02-14T19:21:19.359-05:00My Bloody ValentineCeltic Consort is a very basic man. He's not into what he calls "made up" holidays. Don't get me wrong, he'll likely come home with a sweet card and maybe some extra dark chocolate for me. And most years, that's the extent of our "romantic" holiday.<br /><br />So when I saw Honeysuckle in Rowan 45, I knew I wanted it just not in some soft neutral. I wanted COLOR. I wanted BOLD! I wanted Kidsilk Haze in Blood, a rich deep red that looks great on just about everyone include this fair redhead. I scored some at the Bloomin Yarns Black Friday sale. The only Black Friday sale I have ever attended.<br /><br />I decided rich red would be perfect for Valentines. A way to treat myself like the fabulous woman I am. As I started working on it, I was lured into attending the Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival. Friends would be there as vendors and it'd been a few years. And what better way to show off my fabulous new lace sweater? <br /><br />I worked feverishly after finishing my mother's gift. Ignoring posts on Ravelry. Knitting whenever possible. I overcame two sick days. I planned when to knit various pieces as beading was added to the border. Beads do not travel well on the trolley. But I did it! I love it!<br /><br />Many comments and fawning happened at the festival. I felt great! What a wonderful Valentine gift. So here are my thanks to Elder Celting for his help with photos.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5217/5446005341_beae3c5304.jpg" width="473" height="500" alt="Honeysuckle Back Wing" /><br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5446005265_cb1d2d9b09.jpg" width="384" height="500" alt="Honeysuckle Front 2" /><br /><br /><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5446606880_fcd48f5263.jpg" width="374" height="500" alt="Honeysuckle Front Closeup" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-35059200603703786052011-01-03T19:28:00.006-05:002011-01-03T19:55:39.406-05:00Ready... Set....GO!<br /><br />Yep, I fell down the rabbit hole called 11 shawls in 2011. I had found the 10 shawls in 2010 group what I thought to be too late in the year last year. Lucky for me, they decided to do it again this year.<br /><br />You know what's even better? I have a bunch of shawls/wraps/shawlettes already in mind WITH stash yarn. I've been feeling guilty about the stash. And every time I toss it, I remember things I'd forgotten.<br /><br />If I'd stuck with last year's resolutions, I wouldn't have that problem. But I did an epic fail instead. So now I set up my 11 shawls in my Ravelry queue with a special subset to find them. One I'm even designing for a special yarn gifted to me by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SpacecadetCreations">SpaceCadet</a>. It's Spice Trade and it inspired. To start though, I'm doing <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/damson-2">Damson</a> for my Mom in Dream in Color Starry Spanish Star (Dream Club Nov 10)<br /><br /><br /><a title="Starry Damson by sjbench@verizon.net, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/5321375127/"><img height="375" alt="Starry Damson" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5321375127_b2fd1227bd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /><br />On the side, I'm also working on finishing up some other projects. Oh and if I'm not crazy enough (and you know I am), I cast on for this beauty:<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/TSJr5MnQTZI/AAAAAAAAAqk/zb6fRlTTyfo/s1600/Honeysuckle%2BFront.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558123520511200658" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/TSJr5MnQTZI/AAAAAAAAAqk/zb6fRlTTyfo/s320/Honeysuckle%2BFront.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/TSJsQ08pYMI/AAAAAAAAAqs/RF2J1qLntCc/s1600/Honeysuckle%2BBack.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558123926475333826" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/TSJsQ08pYMI/AAAAAAAAAqs/RF2J1qLntCc/s320/Honeysuckle%2BBack.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Yep Honeysuckle by Sarah Hatton from Rowan 45. I'm doing mine in Kidsilk Haze in Blood. I want it for Valentine's Day. I've even considered that should I reach my goal, I'd go to the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Fest to show it off. This is where I am now:<br /><br /><br /><a title="Honeysuckle start by sjbench@verizon.net, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/5321375847/"><img height="500" alt="Honeysuckle start" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5242/5321375847_e1cdd7a075.jpg" width="476" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well I hope I keep this up. See you soon!Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-18437991284287708042010-05-31T21:47:00.002-04:002010-05-31T22:05:04.390-04:00Memorial DayI'm not one to continually post of those in military service. Sometimes I even find it irritating though I do appreciate what they do. However, I've found that people have forgotten what Memorial Day is about. It is a time to remember those veterans who have passed away. Those who have lost their lives fighting for our freedoms and those who survived that fight and were fortunate enough to enjoy those freedoms afterwards. <br /><br />This Memorial Day marks a landmark for me. It is the first that I remember my favorite war veteran, my grandfather. A man whose joy for life and all encompassing love enlightened many a life. Unfortunately, he passed last August just before his 88th birthday. He was a man who I hope I have raised my boys to be half as good as. Who cared deeply for those around him. <br /><br />He would tell stories of his service but at the same time saw no reason for the current war. A man who thought being American meant that it was quite normal to disagree with your President, vote not for a party but a person, and tell any elected official where to shove it when they voted for a lobby and not their voters. He showed me what it was to be a patriot. He showed <em>my boys</em> what it is to be a patriot. To impress upon them that service to your country was honorable and yet to not chase after it. That service can be necessary and yet glory at the price of humanity a terrible thing. <br /><br />His stories told of the humorous side of war when discussing how he met General Patton at the end of WWII and was fined. They also told of the horror of the concentration camps when he helped to liberate Dakau and was met by a Polish survivor covered in body lice and looking like a skeleton. <br /><br />Here is to his memory on this Memorial Day. May all of those whose loved ones are currently fighting come home safely so we may celebrate them at Veteran's Day. For those who don't may we remember the great service they have done for all of us.Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-59004672825901051872010-05-12T20:10:00.002-04:002010-05-12T20:26:09.810-04:00I can't believe I bought the whole thing....<div>As you know <a href="http://laurieg63.blogspot.com/">Laurie</a> and I went to MDSW the first weekend in May along with tons of other people. I ended up being close on finishing Que Sera but decided to get the extra sleep instead of finishing since the weather was predicted (correctly) as being in the 90's.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I had a ton of fun but didn't really take any pictures. I think I was too hot. I ended up making a tshirt to wear with my Ravatar and some cards with my contact info. If you've found me that way, welcome to the party!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Due to the rumors of Rare Gems, Laurie and I decided to stand in line at The Fold this year. I haven't done this for several years as I already had a bunch of STR and I could get it online. But a Rare Gem is something you CAN'T get that way. Both Laurie and I found some that appealed. I even found one for <a href="http://hpwt.blogspot.com/">DPUTiger</a>! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So what all did I get? Well here's a pic:</div><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3339/4576299439_330ffb1f28.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>So let’s see if I can document it all starting top left:<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/galesart">Gale’s Art Fibers</a> - 2 Blue Faced Swirl in Moldy Pumpkin, 1 Polwarth in Mudpie, 2 Alpaca Silk in Scarab, and sock yarn in Scarab, Moldy Pumpkin, and Crayon Box.<br />Funky Monkey Pattern from The Fold specially requested by my 8 yr old<br />Cricket Loom and some extra heddles from Susan’s Fiber Shop (Hi Newt!)<br />Spirit Trail Fiber - Merino, Angora, Cashmere in Indian Corn<br />Almaza from Just our Yarn is the blue in front of the the fiber for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dragon-wing-shawl">Dragon Wing Shawl</a><br />Rayon Scarf weaving set from the Mannings in Jewel Tones next to the fiber<br />8 oz Galaxy, 1 Spontaneous Spinning batt in coppery/russet tones, and Striping Batt in Beach Bonfire from Loop<br />8oz of Merino/silk/bamboo blend from Bullen Wullens (great deal on Sunday)<br />2 bags of basic fiber and 3 superwash/bamboo sock yarns from Little Barn. Love using this fiber to try new techniques. No guilt!<br />To the left of that is project bag I got at Spirit Trail, some blueberry honey and Scottish Heather Hand Cream from <a href="http://www.thebeefolks.com/">Bee Folks</a>.<br />Fiber Optic Siren Song in Peacock, FootNotes in Russet, Lace in VitaminC (a little buried) for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cascata-2">Cascata</a>, and fiber in Acorn. With a sample of Siren Song Unspun I got waiting in line at the Fold<br />MDSW hoodie and earlier year apron for spinning<br />Stitch Marker necklace from Jennie the Potter<br />STR in Cattywampus, Illanqu, with 2 lightweight rare gems, 1 mediumweight rare gem<br />Pair of yummy slippers from Sheperd’s Flock(?)<br />Tess Yarns: Raw Silk in a piney color for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/summit-2">Summit</a>, Cascade Silk in blue and green for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/corset-tank-top">Corset Top</a>, 2 sock yarns for baby sweaters, and a mug.<br />TIG Glenhaven in Father Time from Cloverhill just above the weaving books.<br />I also got 2 bobbins for my Schacht Woolee Winder and lots of fun buttons including “If knitting were exercise, you could bounce a quarter off my @$$”</div><br /><div>Not pictured is a Cottage Creations pattern for Kylie's Kardigan.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Next up I'll show you my Que Sera and the one that got away. </div>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-21318833011072386042010-04-30T14:48:00.002-04:002010-04-30T14:51:11.237-04:00Crunch TimeWell despite the forecast for close to 90 degrees this weekend at the <a href="http://www.sheepandwool.org/">Maryland Sheep & Wool festival</a>, I am in a crunch to finish a sweater. Que Sera from Knitty. I'm doing it as part of the Bloomin' Yarns KAL. I've finished almost all knitting. I'm now setting in my sleeves and seaming them up. Once that's done, just 4 rows for the neckband and BAM! I'm done. Think I can do it for tomorrow morning?<br /><br />Wish me luck! Let me know if you see me at MDSW in my sweater if you can tell I pulled it this close. :)Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-81025587234073674702010-03-01T20:26:00.003-05:002010-03-02T17:52:22.033-05:00Golden BeesI thought for a while as to what to do for Knitting Olympics this year. I wanted a challenge but I didn't want to go nuts either. So I opted for The Bees' Knees from The New Stranded Colorwork. Not terribly large, challenging with having to stitch and cut steeks, all around perfect.<br /><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4397098106_56111edfdb_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4397098106_56111edfdb_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2694/4379846455_77a6cf7503_m.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I managed to cast on during opening ceremonies despite having to go to dinner at the MIL's for Celtic Consort's delayed birthday dinner. I worked when I could given trying to cram in extra work. I even worked it in around Celtic Consort's carpal tunnel surgery.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4396333253_cbb878ab87_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4396333253_cbb878ab87_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4397099768_a6b033eeac_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4397099768_a6b033eeac_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I ordered a new steamer and bought my first sewing machine. Both excellent purchases and easy to use. I was happy that I purchased the sewing machine at a bargain price at Target. Perfect basic machine for the types of things I would need to do with it now and in the future.<br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4396333635_ff97e5fce1_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4396333635_ff97e5fce1_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4396333505_5e31405926_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4396333505_5e31405926_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I spent my last few days managing a drugged up husband and final preparations for closing ceremonies. Basting steek lines, blocking with the steamer, stitching the steek lines.<br /><br />Then the scissors to knitting. I have to say, after sewing the steek lines it was a giant relief. That was the part that scared me, not the cutting.<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4396333885_4c4e0fa52b_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4396333885_4c4e0fa52b_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4396334437_be75baacb1_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4396334437_be75baacb1_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4397101532_e7c11f9685_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4397101532_e7c11f9685_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4396335291_41b0288576_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4396335291_41b0288576_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4396335291_41b0288576_m.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4396335519_f46eddcff5_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4396335519_f46eddcff5_m.jpg" border="0" /></a>The cuts made it a freeing moment. And the final knitting of the facings. And the seaming of the sleeves. I felt I grew for this olympics.<br /><br />Here is the beautiful end. Enjoy.<img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px" alt="" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4397102504_a338e07b83.jpg" border="0" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-22748600854296775732010-01-28T20:35:00.003-05:002010-01-28T21:01:01.629-05:00Body BagSo for Wuletide, <a href="http://www.hpwt.blogspot.com/">DPUTiger</a> was fabulous with her sewing skills and gifted me with a lovely <a href="http://hpwt.blogspot.com/2010/01/boxing-out.html">box bag</a>. (mine is the dark purple, second row from top) I think there's something about the fact that there is a big zombie theme here at Celtic Castle. She made it in purple and green because those are the colors listed as favorite in Ravelry and I LOVE it! However, kind of funny that purple and green make me think zombies. Why is this relevant? Well right now, it's acting as a body bag. I have a head, two arms and a partial torso in it right now. That's right I'm carrying around body parts. All soft and squishy.<br /><div><div><div>I should finish Lego man in time for the party Saturday night. I just have been hiding knitting. So lots of trolley knitting.</div><br /><div>I'd also like to give DPUTiger credit for <a href="http://hpwt.blogspot.com/2010/01/stonehenge.html">enabling</a> <a href="http://afewstitchesshort.blogspot.com/2010/01/evenstar-mystery-shawl.html">this</a>. She might as well have posted a billboard saying CQ sign up here. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431975214578621954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 110px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S2JArYWvXgI/AAAAAAAAApg/Hc1Yj6eVF90/s400/BlueMoonstone.jpg" border="0" />I've decided to do it in Silk Thread II from Blue Moon in Blue Moonstone. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431975208183165554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S2JArAh8cnI/AAAAAAAAApY/6Go3CRzfoqU/s400/IceBlue.jpg" border="0" />I've also gotten these beads. Yum! </div><br /><div>Oh and did I mention I also found my Knitting Olympics project? I'm doing <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-bees-knees">this</a>. </div><br /><div>Yarn is winging it's way here right now!</div><br /><div>Last but not least, I had a library stash enhancement that will surprise almost no one. I found this book during Celtic Consort's post dinner excursion. I took one look inside and said I had to have it.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431975202644943922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S2JAqr5h5DI/AAAAAAAAApQ/utdSfWvY89I/s400/brioche.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-38941466408114851762010-01-19T19:49:00.003-05:002010-01-19T20:04:37.059-05:00Happy Birthday Younger CeltingSo 8 years ago during an ice storm, I was in the hospital being induced. Later that night and early in the morning, Younger Celting made his reluctant entry into the world. I'm a day early with the post but I had to share the class birthday prep.<br /><div><div><div><div>The theme this year is Pokemon. I dread this stuff. However, what he wants he gets. So as many things as I mess up as a mom. As many times as I'm not the uber mom, I do some things to shine. (I hope). When he asked for Pokemon cupcakes, I went to it.</div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428620632888251698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S1ZVtBupFTI/AAAAAAAAAow/TAgb9L4v4jg/s400/cupcakes1.jpg" border="0" />First it's mixing of icing to get some red and some white. I then started here with white half of cupcakes. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428620637511446530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S1ZVtS85cAI/AAAAAAAAAo4/8vfdrZalYsY/s400/cupcakes2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>Then a nice twist of red icing to be half and half. </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428620648299237122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S1ZVt7I6DwI/AAAAAAAAApA/P0H4yvjwhXo/s400/cupcakes3.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>And finally a fine line of black and voila! Pokeball cupcakes! A full two dozen to be exact.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428620650357905570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/S1ZVuCzu2KI/AAAAAAAAApI/pD96hA8m2NU/s400/cupcakes4.jpg" border="0" />Gosh I must love this kid. :) BTW, thanks to Elder Celting for the early photos.</div></div></div></div>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-29394096544982109232010-01-14T20:08:00.002-05:002010-01-14T20:18:35.655-05:00Lego Man-iaYounger Celting will be 8 later this month. We're doing a dual celebration with YC and Celtic Consort as their birthdays are just 9 days apart. Usually, we do them on different weeks but this year had it's own issues. CC's family is full of January bdays. YC's bday lands on a Wednesday this year and unfortunately, I have to work (from home) this weekend. Not a good idea to plan to have people over.<br /><br />So I thought okay we'll do the following Saturday to have everyone over for celebratory treats. No go. CC's middle sister has her birthday then. Since she still behaves as though she's a child and her mother indulges this behavior, YC has to wait to celebrate until the 30th. Almost 2 weeks AFTER his own bday. Just so you know, 30th aunt bday trumps 8th nephew bday. So grownup.<br /><br />ANYHOW, I got side tracked. YC is a HUGE Lego fan. So when I saw <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/some-assembly-required">this</a> pattern (thanks to my Rav friends), I had to make it. I made a special stop tonight to pick up some red, blue, and yellow to make it. I probably could've raided the stash for something but I knew I didn't have appropriately primary colored yarn. I think that's part of what makes it work for me. The only question is what will Elder Celting think? :)Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-54734302824399086572010-01-05T20:16:00.002-05:002010-01-05T20:26:43.152-05:00Holiday DealsSo when we pulled the Christmas tree out this year, I found the top broken. I was able to jam it in enough to make it through the holiday season but the top of the tree was a bit sparse on decoration to not worry. So the tree we've had since Elder Celting was a toddler is about to make it's departure. Apparently, this is the year of the departure. <br /><br />I decided to shop after the holiday so as not to pay several hundred dollars for a tree we use once a year. And this evening, I stopped out with the Celtings to find the replacement. I was hoping for prelit with multicolor. I was also hoping for LED. No luck on the LED but I DID find the prelit multicolor for 80% off! YAY! Celtic Consort needs to stop out tomorrow to pick it up. <br /><br />I decided that I would wait until the holiday stuff was put away before trying to take pictures and document the stash. My broken tree blocks most of the light from the front window so it's not very conducive to good pics. So I should have nice pictures later this week. I'm also trying to use some stash for things.<br /><br />Having said that, I also just signed up for Rockin Sock Club. This will be my fourth year. I've participated in every year except the very first. That was only because I didn't know about it until after signups closed that year. I'm also renewing my Vesper Sock Club. How could I not? Have you seen Julia's stuff???? It's like telling a kid in a candy store that they can't have anything. Yeah RIGHT! <br /><br />Talk to you later this week and hopefully see some of you for Wuletide!Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-9848556751644643222010-01-01T15:37:00.002-05:002010-01-01T15:45:50.897-05:00Testing..... Testing.....Is this thing on?<br /><br />Yeah I've been away for months. Things have been crazy with the merge into the parent company, soccer season, and just life in general. I haven't been a good blogger.<br /><br />However, one of my New Year's resolutions is to blog at least twice a week. So here's to a fresh start.<br /><br />One of my other resolutions is to get my entire stash into Ravelry complete with pictures. While it may seem intimidating at first, I think once I get rolling, I'll be okay. Then once everything that's already in the house is logged, it's only just keeping up with the new items.<br /><br />So here's to the New Year and improving one's self. No matter how many bad choices you make, you can always change for the better.<br /><br />Now I'll leave you with something that makes me very happy. My Vesper Fiber Club December Shipment.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/4233793731/" title="Knitterly Things Fiber Club Dec 09 by sjbench@verizon.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/4233793731_91c3dc7edf_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="Knitterly Things Fiber Club Dec 09" /></a>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-22162187017447448282009-09-17T20:27:00.002-04:002009-09-17T20:35:44.157-04:00End of an EraSniff, sniff. Today we had a tried and true member of the family given it's last days. The minivan we bought when we bought our house has met it's match. We have finally reached the point of no return with car repair vs. car payment. We've had this one longer than we've had Younger Celting. <br /><br />No more Pirates of the Caravan! No more green mom mobile. Instead it seems we will be following Laurie's lead and going for a Sienna. We looked at a few different minivans tonight, but the Sienna seemed far and above everything else. Good options, workable price, and comfortable. The worst drawback was that there aren't any decent colors except the red. Celtic Consort won't hear of red. He claims a jump in insurance. Instead it seems as though we will end up with a sand colored one. <br /><br />The good news is that I'll finally have a brand new vehicle. While the car was new when we bought it, I didn't really get to call it mine. I don't drive it very often. The van was always mine. And this will REALLY be mine.Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-53920398119758577092009-09-08T20:47:00.002-04:002009-09-08T21:15:46.373-04:00WTF??Okay I've been trying to keep the negativity to myself but I can't be quiet anymore. I'm tired of people jumping to the most horrific conclusions on the debates that are in the forefront of the news these days.<br /><br />First, the smaller issue: Obama's address to schoolchildren. I feel I can comment here as I'm a parent of two school age children (Grades 2 and 6). Near as I can tell, our President decided to speak to our children about staying in school, working hard, and furthering their education. The benefits of which would be richer, fuller lives, opening multiple opportunities. <br /><br />Now Celtic Consort and I are slightly off the beaten track. Neither of us hold a 4 year degree but are fairly self educated. While we both started off to get a 4 year degree, we both emerged on different paths and feel we are better for it. We don't hid that fact from the Celtings. We, in fact, encourage higher education but also recognize that one must forge their own path and not be a follower. Elder Celting is a perfect example, I can see a typical 4 year degree probably won't suit him. He will probably end up in some sort of art related training. Younger Celting is the one to chase a master's degree.<br /><br />So will someone PLEASE tell me what is so horrific about the President telling kids to go to school to improve themselves? There are days I roll my eyes about Obama but I can't see what all the hubbub is about. Our school district recorded the address "for future review." What a crock! If you only feed your child's minds with one option, how are they supposed to tell good from bad later? How do they know how to discuss pros and cons and make a decision based on facts and not propaganda? I'm sick of national decisions based on sound bytes.<br /><br />This brings me to my second topic: National Healthcare.<br />I'm in the thick of this one folks. I've spent almost my entire professional career working for health insurance companies. How I ended up doing IT there, I'm still not sure. However, it's kind of hard to back away when MY HEALTH COVERAGE is through my employer. Two young boys and a husband doing skilled labor is a big incentive to keep as many benefits as I can get. I know because I've also been on the other side of the fence; a single mom making $200 too much a year to be covered by Medicaid while I went to school full time and waited tables. I dreaded every sniffle. Imagine, I'm serving people food with goodness knows what kind of infection because I can't take the time off to get checked out, let alone pay for it. I've seen letters to the editor talking about how health coverage is a luxury like a cell phone or cable. That these "whiners" should pay for coverage before those items. Umm, yeah, I lived in my aunt's attic because I didn't have money for rent and yet I was "whining" because I couldn't see the doctor?<br /><br />Get it straight folks PEOPLE DESERVE HEALTH COVERAGE. Not people like "us", EVERYONE. The same people bemoaning the proposed system and pointing to horror stories elseswhere are the same ones who are living in fear of swine flue. They are the same ones who expect antibiotics when they have a viral infection because they don't get that it won't help. They are the same ones who would shirk away if someone remotely ill looking came up to them. They are also the ones who would cry foul if they were caught up in the wrong side because they were sick too long or were bankrupted by medical bills caused by something beyond their control. It's not people not working, it's also the people getting cancer and losing their job because they are too sick to work. It's the folks who are hit by some drunk driver causing life long injuries which take their ability to work, their savings, and their homes. <br /><br /> You want to prevent a pandemic? Give people a chance to catch it early. How many people will die from a pandemic flu because they didn't go to the doctor when it was just an achy feeling due to lack of health care coverage?<br /><br />You know what this reminds me of? In Tudor England during outbreaks of the "sweating sickness", people of the court would escape from London to their country estates to isolate themselves in order to avoid getting sick. The poor had no choice, they were stuck in the city. Guess who filled the body pits? <br /><br />Do YOU want to be classified as "unworthy" of treatment?Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-48379216313162887402009-08-10T18:42:00.003-04:002009-08-10T18:48:52.801-04:00Good News, Bad NewsFirst the bad news. For the next month, I will be working an hour extra every day. So instead of an 8 hour day, I'll have a 9 hour day. Bleah. Why am I so blessed?<br /><br />The good news, G20 summit is coming to the 'Burgh and working downtown will be WAY too difficult. The options given to our IT department were work from home risking a dropped connection, take personal time, or do make up hours for the three days and take the days off. I opted for the last one. <br /><br />With my cousin getting married that Saturday and my crazy aunts (you know who you are :) ) coming in, it seemed like the best option. Just this time? Can you please give me a better Danny's hoagie heads up?<br /><br />Tomorrow I'm going to try for pictures. Tonight seems risky as the lights are already flickering.Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-66542113338172658252009-08-03T22:23:00.003-04:002009-08-03T22:31:33.697-04:00In MemoriamHere's to a man who's life experience reads like a movie script, James Edward Clark (August 17, 1921 - August 3, 2009) . He's the man that the rest of the men in my life have to measure up to. <br /><br />Many years ago, in a galaxy far, far, away, a friend mentioned to him a wonderful woman who he might be interested in. She was a divorcee with 6 girls. Fortunately for us, he took that recommendation. He had the privelege of meeting these girls, along with me, shoved into a Volkswagen Bug. Somehow, this did not chase off this widower. We were the lucky ones. Many years of joy grew from that choice. <br /><br />I spent my childhood looking for both his approval and his joy at my accomplishments. Nothing could've topped the moment he held each of my boys. The Celtings could not have enjoyed him more. There's something to be said for a man who, in this position, topped my own father for giving me away at my wedding. <br /><br />While we are sad to lose this loving soul, we are glad that he no longer suffers. May he find joy in the Summer Land with his lost love. We may cry for our own loss, but rejoice in your reunion. We miss you, Pap-Pap.Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-89018061470801761102009-07-08T21:50:00.001-04:002009-07-08T21:50:19.248-04:00Tour de Fleece, Day 5<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3702248985/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3461/3702248985_2c167aa6a3_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3702248985/">Day 5</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/sjbench/">sjbench@verizon.net</a></span></div>Well I finished the other bobbin and started this. Another Spunky Club in the appropriately named "New Day" colorway. I thought the yellow and red appropriate to my pace. Yellow because I win every day I spin. Red because I feel like I'm always bringing up the end in my less than prolific progress. :)<br clear="all" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-44158609561852329962009-07-07T22:41:00.004-04:002009-07-07T22:59:57.331-04:00Rough Day #4First let me say that yes I did spin for Day 4 of Tour de Fleece. However, no exciting progress as I had bigger fish to fry tonight.<br /><br />So I was just about to start my second day of my 30 day fitness challenge on Wii Active, when crying and sniffling noises came from the side door. Based on what I was hearing I was expecting a "EC hit me with a ball!" "Did not!" kind of conversation. Instead, I got YC with his face covered in blood and EC quickly trying to reassure me it was not his fault. The basic story was that they were playing on the back hill with the wagon. At some point, the wagon was going fast and started to list to one side. YC trying to recover, leaned the other way and promptly met face with tree.<br /><br />After cleaning away the bloody mess, I could see that it all came from a nice gash style cut on his browbone. Not sure if it was stitch worthy, we took off to MedExpress. Turns out, no stitches, just surgical super glue and a steri strip. First true medical patch job on either of the Celtings. We've had breathing things, nursemaid's elbow, and the weedkiller scare, but nothing requiring some outside item to hold the body together.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355916034061708242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/SlQJQZERK9I/AAAAAAAAAoo/SgQNgH9i3tE/s400/boy+meets+tree.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p>Side note: I was pleasantly surprised how well this shot actually captured YC's eye color. </p><p>After coming home, I did get back and finish my second day's workout and I'm feeling it. But in a good way.</p><p>I then checked my email to see resolution in yesterday's Redbox debacle. Instead I got a reply telling me that emails get caught in spam filters and that it was too bad, so sad for me. I IMMEDIATELY called Redbox back where poor Shane answered my call. Shane was much more helpful than his coworkers. It only took me to almost screaming that I had bank records and that the machine I rented from wasn't even at it's location on the alleged rental date. He placed me on hold (probably to tell a supervisor that there was a raving madwoman on the phone). When Shane came back, he identified that the machine was the problem and they would be refunding my money FINALLY. I also received free rental codes for 3 movies. Apparently, my suggestion of the machine not being at the location prompted him to look into it's history. What he found were items being returned BEFORE they were rented, items which were rented before the machine was in service, and various other whacked out scenarios. If the woman I spoke with yesterday had not been so condescending, perhaps I wouldn't have almost jumped through the phone at poor Shane. I'm just glad that I check my receipts. </p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br /></p>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-27337149581433353772009-07-06T22:18:00.001-04:002009-07-06T22:18:07.660-04:00Tour de Fleece, Day Three<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3695799885/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2505/3695799885_9e759475d0_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3695799885/">Day Three</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/sjbench/">sjbench@verizon.net</a></span></div>Thanks to Elder Celting who did my entire photo shoot. I thought this one showed the fiber best. I'm surprised I could still spin after working all day and completing my first workout for my Wii Active 30 day challenge. We'll see how I am tomorrow. <br /><br />BTW, fighting with Redbox right now. Usually I love them, but I was just charged for 17 extra days EACH for two videos I rented on July 3rd and returned on July 4. When reviewing my rental receipt again for the initial night, I found that the invoice was dated for JUNE 16TH. I had to forward the email and I included that I could provide bank records as well for the initial night charge. Almost $37 bucks in bogus charges because someone somewhere didn't set something right.<br clear="all" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-21808318974022453632009-07-05T22:41:00.001-04:002009-07-05T22:41:07.328-04:00Tour De Fleece, Day Two<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3692723274/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3649/3692723274_9f7b3d2e8d_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3692723274/">Day 2</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/sjbench/">sjbench@verizon.net</a></span></div>Well, I made more progress today. But I think it will be next weekend that will make a dent for the stash. I just hope that I don't spin so much I injure myself. :)<br clear="all" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-62320890364058626672009-07-04T23:12:00.001-04:002009-07-04T23:12:05.797-04:00Tour de Fleece 2009 Day One<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3689141416/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2580/3689141416_1f5a5eaab7_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sjbench/3689141416/">Soul Windows Single</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/sjbench/">sjbench@verizon.net</a></span></div>Here's what I was doing while Lance was running his time trial<br clear="all" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-66064351351546312492009-06-16T20:30:00.002-04:002009-06-16T20:46:43.683-04:00News but no picsOkay I'm a blogging slacker. But you knew this already. I felt I should post given that there are a couple of things to share. First the Friday Night Knitters are celebrating four years as a group! Can you believe four years ago we called up B&N and started this mess? And look at all the fun people that have been drawn to us. You've made me a better person and helped me to expand my knowledge. THANKS!!!! <br /><br />Second, Celtic Consort and I went out to Rockler to purchase his router table. This was the last tool he needed before starting in on sock blocker designs. While we were there, I checked out the very pretty woods they had there. My favorite was the curly waterfall bubinga, lots of ripply woodgrain that's gorgeous. Well that and the purpleheart. Anyhow, now he's off to get hardboard to make some jigs for this. <br /><br />In discussion as what makes a good sock blocker, I mentioned things such as air vents instead of a solid piece for faster drying. I was thinking hearts, circles, stars, etc. He said no. He plans on <span style="font-size:180%;">Celtic Knots</span><span style="font-size:100%;">!!!!!!! I knew there was a reason I married him. :) So he just needs to figure out what patterns he's doing and I'll probably have some testing to do. </span><br /><br />BTW here's my list of things I would want in a sock blocker:<br /><ul><li>Air vents</li><li>Hook for hanging</li><li>Available in knee high</li><li>Smooth non staining finishing</li><li>Beautiful woods</li></ul><p>Any other suggestions?</p>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-28002060880691861682009-04-29T20:39:00.003-04:002009-04-29T20:51:08.234-04:00PansiesI came home to as Celtic Consort puts it my "crack fix." He insists that I get a package at least once a week. The truth is that I don't usually get packages. Just this week, I received my Spunky Club double bump and this lovely gem today. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330278335259199554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Sfjz56cVyEI/AAAAAAAAAog/BHG-1Jp68xc/s320/Pansies.jpg" border="0" />Miss Julia has outdone herself this time. The color is called Pansies at the Phipps. Truth is I can so see them in there. So yummy. And MDSW is just days away!!!!Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-8109901931163816592009-04-22T19:08:00.005-04:002009-04-22T19:22:42.263-04:00Mojo Back<div><br /><br /><div>Okay so I lost my blogging mojo while working on some very cute baby gifts for <a href="http://www.afamilylife.blogspot.com/">Miss Heather's lovely girl</a>. I didn't want to spoil the surprise and so I avoided posting. I did have some fun dyeing Easter eggs with the boys. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327658848694071970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Se-lfujgcqI/AAAAAAAAAn4/kJ2HVovMz_s/s320/easter+eggs.jpg" border="0" />If you look, there's a black one which the Celtic Consort did. And what did I do with the leftover dye? Well use my fiber from <a href="http://www.knitterlythings.com/blog/">Julia </a>to clean it up! Can't wait to figure out a project for it. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327658847267303186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Se-lfpPVrxI/AAAAAAAAAoA/3hT7VQB91vA/s320/fiber+dye.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327658851862419362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Se-lf6W5l6I/AAAAAAAAAoI/jXE-R1qVe8Q/s320/fiber+dye+tin.jpg" border="0" />So now I'm working on some socks for me. Chevvy with Vesper Lovely Lollipop Sky. Totally quick and fun. I love how the heel stripes on the bottom. What do you think?<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327659025740345170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Se-lqCGoL1I/AAAAAAAAAoY/81_hCMS5IG8/s320/chevvy.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327658849205604562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/Se-lfwdd0NI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/aVH5MnpzUas/s320/chevvy+heel.jpg" border="0" />Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-90340316774068729342009-03-21T22:53:00.004-04:002009-03-21T23:12:08.851-04:00As Seen on OprahLast night was The Cult Meeting. While I was on my way over to the cafe at Borders, I walked past the "As Seen On Oprah" end cap. You know all the books that are touchy feely or "We're better than you because we read this" kind of stuff. And there's what seems to be an empire era classic..... but not. Instead it was this book.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pride-Prejudice-Zombies-Classic-Ultraviolent/dp/1594743347/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237690349&sr=8-1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315841604374279650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/ScWpxk74teI/AAAAAAAAAnw/ZDkSpGwlpVw/s320/PPZ.jpg" border="0" /><br /></a>Total wacky funny premise. I couldn't resist buying it. I also bought the Twilight series and movie. Oh and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pints-Purls-Portable-Projects-Knitter/dp/160061146X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237691460&sr=1-1">Pints & Purls.</a> Gotta love a knitting book that rates patterns by number of beers. So while I read on about zombies invading the world of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy, I can keep my beers handing in a six pack carrier. :)Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8073883067429164529.post-79608772036285291342009-03-17T19:53:00.006-04:002009-03-17T20:19:28.767-04:00Happy St. Patty's Day<div>So while most people are excited to celebrate Irish roots or just a brush with Ireland, the Celtic Consort and I have a second reason to celebrate every year. This is the day that we officially began as a couple. And this year is special. This year, we have been together for TEN YEARS. A whole decade! How did that happen? It seems like yesterday that we were out celebrating the wearing of the green with friends for the first time. We were also trying to keep the togetherness on the down-low. I had met Celtic Consort while dating a friend of his (who was a <em>beeeeeeeeeep</em>). This friend and I had a terrible breakup and he did not want me hanging out with his friends. So see.... sometimes you do have to kiss a few frogs to find a prince. :)<br /></div><div>(p.s. despite messing with it forever, Blogger refuses to orient this pic correctly)<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314315536676252994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LR__QQ8jhcY/ScA90vvtbUI/AAAAAAAAAno/PlWTBhapIHA/s320/CC4.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div>Celtic Queenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05995767146892633710noreply@blogger.com1