Knitting With Athena ... Playing With Leopards

Book Challenge: 26 Weeks: 92 Books Read

2011-07-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

Well, a half-year has rapidly finished; and, since I have been reading at lightning speed (92 BOOKS!!!!), it seems that it might be a good thing to bring my readers up-to-date now on what I've read and what I've thought of it.

ARCHEOLOGICAL THRILLERS

Adams, W.: The Eden Legacy(4)*** (N.B. has absolutely Nothing to do with Biblical archaeology)

Byrnes, M.: The Sacred Blood(2)**+

Byrnes, M.: The Sacred Bones(1)**+

AUSTENALIA: Sequels; Prequels; Variations

Adriani, S.: Affinity and Affection**++(N.B. fairly good variation; too erotic for a teen-ager)

Aidan, P.: An Assembly Such as This(1)***++

Aidan, P.: Duty and Desire(2)***++

Aidan, P.: These Three Remain(3)***++

Altman, M.: Mr. Darcy's Great Escape(3)***

Altman, M.: The Ballad of Gregoire Darcy(4)***+

Altman, M.: the Darcys and the Bingleys(1)***

Altman, M.: The Plight of the Darcy Brothers(2)***

Angell, L.: The Sheik of Araby**+

Aston, E.: Mr. Darcy's Dream** (N.B. a green-house!!!! Gah!)

Austen, J. & Nazarian, V.: Mansfield Park and Mummies***

Austen, J. & Nazarian, V.: Northanger Abbey and Angels and Dragons***++ (N.B. delightfully diverting!)

Bader, T. & Bader, M.: Desire and Duty*+ (N.B. the authors bring in a type of "are you saved" religiosity which is very painful, although I realize that Methodism was gaining at this time, Austen herself was not interested in this; other parts of the story are very nice)

Baxley, M.K.: The Cumberland Plateau(1)***?

Baxley, M.K.: The Mistress's Black Veil*** (N.B. erotica was very understated, which I liked; another what-if Mr. Bennet had died)

Bonavia-Hunt, DA: Pemberley Shades*** (N.B. first published in 1949; this was the 2nd Austen sequel ever written)

Brocklehurst, J.: Darcy and Anne***

Childers, C.: Twilight of the Abyss**+ (N.B. a long novella)

Cole, B.T.: White Lies & Other Half Truths**+ (NB: many copy editing errors, which is a usual problem with many self-published books; story actually is fun)

Cox, K.M.: 1932**++

Croft, J. Marie: Mr. Darcy Takes the Plunge** (N.B. I really was annoyed with the word play (alliterations and puns) that are on nearly every page of this novel.)

Elyot, A.: By a Lady***+ (N.B. time-travel & Bath in the Regency with our own JA as a character)

Ford, M.T.: Jane Goes Batty(2)***++

Granger, A.: Captain Wentworth's Diary**+

Hamilton, M.: Mr. Darcy and the Secret of Becoming a Gentleman***

Kaye, S.: For You Alone: Frederick Wentworth, Captain, Book 2*** (N.B. I would have done the ending differently)

Kaye, S.: None But You: Frederick Wentworth, Captain, Book 1***

Lilian, L.: Rainy Days***

Lilian, L.: Remembrance of the Past***

Louise, K.: Only Mr. Darcy Will Do***++

Nelson, KL: Pemberley Manor***

O'Brien, S.: Blame It On The Tea** (NB: copy editing was almost non-existent; author really needs help for her ending)

Oakland, R.P.: My BFF (a friendly romance)***

Odiwe, J.: Mr. Darcy's Secret***+

Reynolds, A.: A Pemberley Medley*** (NB: 5 short stories)

Reynolds, A.: From Lambton to Longbourn**++

Reynolds, A.: Morning Light**+ (N.B. I don't know why she makes her modern heroines so neurotic (grr); however, it does get on my nerves. I think this is actual a half-n-half book: half a continuation of Pemberley By the Sea and half a new story. I really cannot see Persuasion in the new story.)

Reynolds, A.: To Conquer Mr. Darcy**+(N.B. previous title Impulse & Initiative -- this was a re-read for me -- I don't know why the publisher changed the title, as the new one is not as good as the first in my opinion)

Sanchez, L.: A Noteworthy Courtship*** (You've Got Mail!)

Saunders, K.: A Modern Day Persuasion**++ (N.B. I really really disliked the occasional (about 5 or 6) short sops to "conservative" Xians -- all could have been removed painlessly!)

Simonsen, M.: For All the Wrong Reasons**+ (novella)

Simonsen, M.L.: A Wife for Mr. Darcy***

Simonsen, M.L.: Mr. Darcy's Angel of Mercy: A Romance of The Great War**++(N.B. short novella -- I don't think I am a real fan of this genre as I felt there could have been a very interesting novel here)

Simonsen, ML: The Perfect Bride for Mr. Darcy***+

Ward, Eucharista, OSF: A Match for Mary Bennet***+

Wasylowski, KV: Darcy and Fitzwilliam***+

Webb, B.J.: Fitzwilliam Darcy, An Honourable Man***(N.B. a different variation)

Wegner, O.: Moonlighting**+(N.B. P&P and werewolves; Lizzy is NOT blonde!; author has Lizzy and Jane acting like blondes, though L does recover; so much more could have been done)

Wells, L.: Chance Encounters**+ (N.B. I believe that there is too much explicit erotica in this variation

Wells, L.: Fate & Consequences** (N.B. too erotic)

Wells, L.: Perfect Fit*** (N.B. modern with erotic elements; I did like some of the characterization changes for some of the minor characters)

Whelchel, L.: Rocks in the Stream***

MYSTERIES / NOVELS: Ancient Greece

Corby, G.: The Pericles Commission(1)***+

Pressfield, S.: Last of the Amazons***++

MYSTERIES / NOVELS: Ancient Rome

Downie, R.: Caveat Emptor(4)****

Downie, R.: Persona Non Grata(3)****

Downie, R.: Terra Incognita(2)****

Saylor, S.: Roman Blood(1)****(N.B. 1st volume of the Roma Sub Rosa series)

MYSTERIES / NOVELS: 18th Century

James, E.: When the Duke Returns***

Norman, D.: A Catch of Consequence***+(1) [N.B. author also writes under the name Ariana Franklin (Mistress of the Art of Death series); I think that the title here is quite ironic and the heroine (Makepeace Burke) is a very different kind of woman]

MYSTERIES / NOVELS: Regency Period

Jeffers, R.: The Scandal of Lady Eleanor(1)*** (N.B. the first in a new series by the author of many Austenesques)

Kelly, C.: The Admiral's Penniless Bride**+(N.B. this is the first Harlequin Historical that I've read, nice light read)

MYSTERIES / THRILLERS

Alpert M.:The Final Theory(1)***+

Alpert, M.: The Omega Theory(2)***+ (N.B. the what-if in these 2 novels concerns the possibility that Einstein actually DID complete the Unified Field Theory)

Berry, J.: The Jefferson Key***

Cussler, C.: The Kingdom(3)***(Fargo Adventure)

Gruber, M.: Night of the Jaguar(3)*****

Gruber, M.: The Book of Air and Shadows****

Gruber, M.: The Forgery of Venus****

Gruber, M.: The Good Son****+

Gruber, M.: Tropic of Night(1)*****(N.B. 1st volume of a trilogy of mysteries)

Gruber, M.: Valley of Bones(2)*****

Khoury, R.: The Sign***

Koontz, D.: Your Heart Belongs to Me**++ (N.B. better than many of his extreme black vs white novels and the psychopaths which haunt them)

Rollins, J.: The Devil Colony (Sigma Force)***

SCIENCE FICTION/ STEAMPUNK/ VAMPIRES/ FANTASY / ETC.

Carriger, G.: Blameless(3)***+

Carriger, G.: Changeless(2)***

Carriger, G.: Soulless(1)***++

Fahy, W.: Fragment*** (N.B. genre of lost continents)

Farnsworth, C.: The President's Vampire(2)**? (N.B not as good as the first; however, there were a few moments...)

Hallaway, T.: Dead If I Do(4)**+

Hallaway, T.: Dead Sexy(2)**+

Hallaway, T.: Honeymoon of the Dead(5)**+ (N.B. author states that this is the last for this series; however, I find that there can still be more stories "conjured:" still don't think Sebastian should use slang)

Hallaway, T.: Romancing the Dead(3)**+

Hallaway, T.: Tall, Dark & Dead**+(1) (N.B. a lot of fun; however, it is terribly flawed)

Harkness, D.: A Discovery of Witches(1)**** (NB: Wicca and the so-called Triple Goddess are MODERN -- this is the only quibble I have with the book)

Harris, C.: Dead Reckoning***(13)

Kowal, M.R.: Shades of Milk and Honey*** (N.B. how do you categorize a Regency from another universe which allows a person to reach into the strings and ribbons of the universe itself in order to bring "glamour" to the visible?)

Stoker, D. & Holt, I.: Dracula the Undead (The Sequel to the Original Classic)***

Reading Challenge

2011-01-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

I DID IT!!!!!!! 52 (actually 58) in 52

Adams, A.: First Impressions: A Tale of Less Pride & Prejudice**+

Adams, W.: The Alexander Cipher****(1)

Adams, W.: The Exodus Quest****(2) NB: read my review of both novels on Peacock Plumes

Adams, W.: The Lost Labyrinth****(3)(Why is it that British writers do archeological mysteries/thrillers so much better than Americans? They don't kow-tow to Christian fundies.)

Angelini, S.: The Trials of the Honorable F. Darcy *** (n.b. delightful R-rated modern rendition)

Berry, S.: The Emperor's Tomb***+

Berry, S.: The Paris Vendetta***

Bowen, R.: Her Royal Spyness***(1)

Brokaw, C: The Atlantis Code** (n.b. the production copy editing was not of the best quality; in addition, the Pieta is not in the square but is the art work for the first side altar on the right in St. Peter's -- yes, I've been there twice) I will not be reading anymore of this author's work because his hero is very unlikeable.

Caldwell, J.: Pemberley Ranch***++

Child, L.& Preston, D.: Fever Dream****

Child, L.: Death Match***

Child, L.: Terminal Freeze***

Cronin, J.: The Passage****

Cussler, C.: Lost Empire: A Fargo Adventure (#2)***

Cussler, C.: Spartan Gold***(#1 Fargo Adventure)

Cussler, C.: The Spy***(#3 Isaac Bell series)

Cussler, C.: The Wrecker*** (#2 Isaac Bell series)

Davis, L.: Nemesis****

Downie, R.: Medicus****(1)

Evanovitch, J.: Wicked Appetite***

Fairview, M.: The Darcy Cousins***+

Fairview, M.: The Other Mr. Darcy ***+

Farnsworth, C.: Blood Oath***

Ford, MT: Jane Bites Back***++

Franklin, A.: A Murderous Procession***+

Gould, J.: Greek Winds of Fury***+

Grange, A.: Mr. Darcy, Vampyre **++ (n.b. much better than I thought it would be)

Gregory, J. & Tintori, K.: The Book of Names***

Gregory, J. & Tintori, K.: The Illumination***

Hamilton, B.: A Marked Man**** (2)

Hamilton, B.: The Ninth Daughter****(1)

Harris, C.: Dead In The Family***+

Huston, C.: Already Dead***

Isaacs, S.: As Husbands Go***+

Jeffers, R.: Captain Wentworth's Persuasion ***

Jeffers, R.: Darcy's Passions ***

Jeffers, R.: Darcy's Temptation ***

Jeffers, R.: Vampyre Darcy's Desire***(NB: horrible title; actually a good story)

Kane, B.: The Forgotten Legion*****(1)

Kane, B.: The Silver Eagle(2)*****

King, S.: Duma Key***

King, S.: Under the Dome***

Knox, T.: The Genesis Secret ****

Lathan, S.: My Dearest Mr. Darcy *- (read my review at Peacock Plumes) the worst Austenesque author!

Louise, K.: Darcy's Voyage***-

Mushatt, M.A.: Darcy and the Duchess**+

Preston, D.: Impact***+

Reynolds, A.: Impulse & Initiative**

Reynolds, A.: Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy: The Last Man in the World***

Rigler, LV: Rude Awakenings of a Jane Austen Addict ****(2)

Rollins, J.: Altar of Eden***+

Sussman, P.: The Hidden Oasis*** (n.b. the worst production copy editing I have ever seen, Atlantic Monthly Press should be ashamed)

Thor, Brad: The Athena Project **

Trussoni, D.: Angelology: A Novel **+(review to follow on Peacock Plumes)

Weldon, P: Phantasm**+(3)

Winkowski MA & Foley M.: The Ice Cradle***(2)

Winkowski, MA & Foley M.: The Book of Illumination***(1)

Erratum for Solace Stole

2010-09-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

I have been having a bit of a problem with the Solace Stole; however, this past week-end I found one erratum for the major body of the stole.
I have knitted lace, so I was upset that things were not working out for me with the border. Therefore, I decided to use a provisional cast-on for the body, knowing that I could splice on the borders later.
Now, even that had problems. I had counted the amount of stitches numerous times -- and, guess what? There are supposed to be 4 uncharted purl stitches instead of 3 on each side of the stole, which she gave in the directions for the 120 stitch size. So, after figuring that out, I decided to make my stoles wider by adding 3 repeats of the flame chevron (8 instead of 5) and 6 purl stitches on each side. Now two stoles on on their way (fuschia and plum), finally!!!!

An Up~Date

2010-08-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

Reading Challenge: So far this year I've read 33 books and am presently reading A Royal Pain by Rhys Bowen, the second in her Royal Spyness mystery series.
Solace Stoles: These are going slower than I anticipated, although I have all the yarn I'll need except for the forest green. I had a problem with the border; however, after writing the designer, I am ready to go!
Entrelac Set: I LOVE doing entrelac! The hat is more than half-way done.
Irish Sweater: I haven't gotten too far; however, I've decided to frog it and start it again on a circular needle so that I can do the front and back at the same time (at least up to the armholes). DUH!

Another "Skein Winder" by Godward!

2010-07-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Entrelac for Keri

2010-07-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

I have also started the hat portion of this entrelac set for my friend, Keri. In fact, I have completed the band and the first round of triangles! I know that she'll like the shades of tan and brown that came in the kit from Knit Picks (http://www.knitpicks.com/) . Later this week, I'll be ordering more of this yarn so that I can make a matching scarf.

And 7 Solace Stoles, Oh, My!

2010-05-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

The stole pictured above has been designed by Georgina Bow ~~ and, I'm going to make seven (7). Two are already on a circular needle in a light lilac and a plum for the twin daughters of a long-time friend of the family who was killed by a drunken driver who was talking on a cell phone at the time she crashed into Phyllis' car. Three more are for the additional siblings (cerise pink, forest green, and light jade green). I am also making one for my best friend who lives in Ohio (she likes earth colours) and one for myself (sea blue/green).

What I'm Knitting Now

2010-04-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

This sweater is on my needles right now. The pattern is available for free from Lion Brand. I'm doing it in Universal Yarn's Deluxe Worsted Tones in Atlantic (shades of denim blue). Can you tell that I love cables!?

An Open Letter to Conservatives

2010-03-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

{I originally posted this on my Peacock Plumes blog.)

I signed into Ravelry today (Ravelry is an on-line community of knitters, crocheters, yarn dyers, spinners, etc. http://www.ravelry.com/ ) so that I could check out if there was anything new in some of my groups. Anyway, on Wingnut Watch one of the moderators had posted a link to a wonderful blogpost by a gentleman calling himself American Dad. It was an open letter to conservatives where he took probably most everything ugly they have been doing and citing proof of their lies. It has already gone viral, as the link I'm giving is for another blog which posted it (the original citation was too long -- it is a TPM blog -- and I couldn't get the whole thing. Anyway, please go to http://filterednews.wordpress.com/2010/03/22/an-open-letter-to-conservatives/ for a wonderful, fully cited essay.

Godward, Waterhouse, and Leighton

2010-03-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

Some of my readers may recognize the two paintings by John William Godward that were used in the header of my blog: Idleness and The Seamstress. I realize that there are many paintings which show the various fiber arts; however, there are not that many set in classical times. There are at least three more by Godward:

A Stitch in Time

Sewing Girl

On the Balcony

Then there are these two by John William Waterhouse:

La Fileuse

Penelope and the Suitors

And, finally, this one by Frederic Lord Leighton

Winding the Skein

These and many other paintings can be seen at the site Art Magick ( http://www.artmagick.com/ )

52 In 52 2009 Ravelry Challenge

2009-12-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't quite make it; however 50 books for the year in a good number. As can be seen on my nightstand, I already have a good start for 2010's challenge.

Bennett, A.: The Uncommon Reader ****
Berry, S.: The Charlemagne Pursuit ****
Cussler, C.: Arctic Drift **+
Cussler, C.: Medusa**+
Cussler, C.: The Chase **+
Davis, L.: A Body In The Bathhouse****(13)
Davis, L.: A Dying Light In Corduba****(8)
Davis, L.: Alexandria****(19)
Davis, L.: Last Act In Palmyra****(6)
Davis, L.: Ode to A Banker****(12)
Davis, L.: One Virgin Too Many****(11)
Davis, L.: Poseidon's Gold****(5)
Davis, L.: Saturnalia****(18)
Davis, L.: Scandal Takes a Holiday****(16)
Davis, L.: See Delphi and Die****(17)
Davis, L.: Shadows In Bronze****(2)
Davis, L.: Silver Pigs****(1)
Davis, L.: The Accusers****(15)
Davis, L.: The Course of Honour****
Davis, L.: The Iron Hand of Mars****(4)
Davis, L.: The Jupiter Myth****(14)
Davis, L.: Three Hands In The Fountain****(9)
Davis, L.: Time To Depart****(7)
Davis, L.: Two For The Lions****(10)
Davis, L.: Venus In Copper****(3)
Franklin, A.: Grave Goods****(3)
Franklin, A.: Mistress of the Art of Death****(1)
Franklin, A.: The Serpent's Tale****(2)
Gould, J.: Greek Winds of Fury***+
Graziano & Graziano: Cretaceous Dawn ****
Greanias, T.: Raising Atlantis (1)
Harris, C.: A Touch of Dead (stories)
Harris, C.: All Together Dead ****(7)
Harris, C.: Club Dead ****(3)
Harris, C.: Dead And Gone ****(9)
Harris, C.: Dead As A Doornail ****(5)
Harris, C.: Dead To The World ****(4)
Harris, C.: Dead Until Dark ****(1)
Harris, C.: Definitely Dead ****(6)
Harris, C.: From Dead To Worse ****(8)
Harris, C.: Living Dead In Dallas****(2)
Neville, K.: The Fire ****
Preston, D. & Child, L.: Cemetery Dance***+
Reilly, M.: Seven Deadly Wonders **
Reilly, M.: Six Sacred Stones **
Reynolds, A.: Pemberly By The Sea ***
Rollins, J.: The Doomsday Key***+
Weldon, P.: Spectre***(2)
Weldon, P.: Wraith***(1)

CINEMA 2009: Movies I saw at the theatre

Bright Star *****
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince ****

Monsters VS Aliens (a guilty pleasure)
Sherlock Holmes ***+
Star Trek ***+

Winding Yarn

2009-12-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

Well, I've started to wind the yarn for my next project, which will be a pullover sweater with a few changes to the pattern. The yarn chosen for this is Cherry Tree Hill mohair/wool/silk boucle in the Champlain Sunset colourway.

The sweater pattern originally had bandings of different colours (this is the "Blueberry Hill" I mentioned in a previous post, which I was doing in a light and medium denim blue, orchid, and a variegated which brought all the colours together). Since this is already a multicolour yarn with short colour repeats, I have decided to change the body of the sweater to a heavy rib (probably 3X3) up to the division for the armholes; then I'll be changing to seed stitch; after splicing the shoulders I'll add a heavily ribbed loose turtle neck. The sleeves I'll be knitting down from the shoulder in seed stitch and I'll finish with heavy ribbing for the wrists.

Finally, A Project Done -- And A Project to Be Frogged

2009-11-27T11:49:00.001-08:00

I can hardley believe that I have finally finished the large bag I was knitting for an exchange. I used a beautiful salmon fingering yarn by Knit Picks and a salmon marl alpaca fingering yarn. It is much easier picking out yarn and some other goodies for an exchange!

Now for the bad news, I finally figured out that I will have to frog my "Blueberry Hill" sweater because of the cheap circulars I used. My KnitPicks Harmonies and Addies have been wonderful -- however, these Clover needles kinked so badly that I didn't realize that the sweater had gotten all twisted. However, not all is lost as I have decided to slightly modify the pattern.

Modern Goddess Portraits

2009-10-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

You can see more of this artist's paintings at

www.pagesperso-orange.fr/goddess-seat/

So Busy Knitting and Reading

2009-09-16T13:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been this long since the last post on this blog! I have been keeping up with the side-bar information on the 52 in 52 reading project, however.

On that note, I really do have to recommend Lindsey Davis' Marcus Didius Falco mysteries. As a former history major with an emphasis on the Classical, Mediaeval and Renaissance, her descriptions of the time of Vespasian are spot on. In my opinion, Vespasian was one of the best emperors of the Roman Empire and her depictions of him and his family are terrific. I was also pleased (no brick bats, please) to see that she placed the Christian sects in the right position -- they were not as put-upon and persecuted as their own histories tried to make out and were not really of much interest to every day Romans.

Besides these I have also read a few other novels as well. The Tao of Pooh is also now on my nightstand (I have never read it!).

I have been working on little items. Right now I am making a largish decorative bag in peach KnitPicks Peruvian wool in a fingering weight along with a great peachy marl in alpaca (half and half). It's going to be lined so there will be two sections. Whoever will get it will be able to store their runes and tarot cards together.

Recent Reads ~~ 52 In 52

2009-06-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have been working on my reading recently and have just finished Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse novels. These were a lot of fun and the tone the author achieved was just right, in my opinion. I am looking forward to the collected Sookie short stories, which will be published this autumn.

Last week-end I read Pemberly by the Sea by Abigail Reynolds. I'm up in the air a bit with a review. I think most people will enjoy it, though at times the heroine was her own worst enemy.

More Things About Myself

2009-04-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

17. What I Watch On Television: Countdown with Keith Olbermann; The Rachel Maddow Show; Hardball with Chris Matthews; Bones; Lost; Moonlight; Primeval; Eureka; Fringe; The #1 Ladies' Detective Agency; True Blood; Heroes; Monk; Medium; Ghost Hunters; Astronomy/Cosmology type shows; "Paleo-World" type shows

18. Previous Favourites: Battlestar Galactica (new series); Star Gate; all Star Trek incarnations; Babylon 5; Jane Austen mini-series; Jane Eyre (3 versions)

19. Favourite Movies: Bringing Up Baby; Casablanca; The African Queen; The Maltese Falcon; The Thin Man (several movies); Now, Voyager; Ninotchka; The Third Man; To Catch a Thief; A Shot in the Dark; Dr. Zhivago; Out of Africa; Sophie's Choice; Das Boot; La Nuit de Varennes; Master & Commander; Gladiator; Pan's Labyrinth; Sense & Sensibility; Pride & Prejudice; Persuasion (not quite chronological order)

20. Favourite Operas: Le Nozze de Figaro; Die Zauberflote; Don Giovanni; Norma; Tosca; Der Fliegende Hollander; Tristan und Isolde; Der Ring des Niebelungen; Orfeo et Euridice; Les Contes de Hoffmann

21. Favourite Print Comics: Get Fuzzy; Non Sequitur; Mutts; Rhymes With Orange; Bizarro; Rose Is Rose

22. Favourite Classic Movie Actors: Katharine Hepburn; Humphrey Bogart; Cary Grant; Sir Laurence Olivier; Myrna Loy; William Powell; Errol Flynn; Bette Davis; Claude Raines; Greta Garbo; Marlene Deitrich; Joan Fontaine; Peter Sellars; Alan Ladd

Lady And The Tiger

2009-04-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

Knitting, Yarn & Kitties -- Could Anything Be Better!

2009-03-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

What Would You Take?

2009-03-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

For all of us who knit (or crochet) this is all too true. More can be found at http://wondermark.com/

Some Interesting Things About Me (I Believe)

2009-03-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

In No Particular Order:

1. I have never been to DisneyWorld or DisneyLand -- and never will

2. Re: Above: Yes, I am a "Culture Snob"

3. Favourite Perfume: Chanel "Coco"; Dior "Poison Mystique"

4. Favourite Scents: Gardenias; Frankincense; Lavender; Lilac; Spice

5. I am a want-to-be: Classicist; Paleontologist; Astronomer

6. Favourite Season: Winter (Spring & Autumn tied for second)

7. I am a polytheist and "spiritual/religious materialist" (scientific definition) (check out my blog "Libations")

8. Favourite Cake: Spice (Chocolate second)

9. Favourite Pie: Lemon Meringue (Oreo Chocolate Creme Pie second)

10. Favourite Cookie: Molasses Spice (Ginger Snaps second)

11. I am a Cat Person

12. I lived in South Korea for one year

13. I have been to Europe three times

14. I have precognitive dreams

15. I have grey hair and I keep it long

16. I enjoy science fiction

KAL Buttons

2009-03-13T06:51:00.001-07:00

Most of these knit-a-longs are still in progress.

The Permanent Bad-Hair Day

2009-03-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

Even when I try, by the end of the day my hair looks like Einstein's. This happens even though I do use de-frizzing products. ARRGH!!! However, it would be even worse if I cut my hair short. Then my face would look like the full-moon all the time. Sometimes, genetics just does not work in your favour. However, I almost can't wait for the rest of my front hairline to turn white. It is really quite lovely and does not have any yellow at all. I get both the bitter and the sweet from my maternal grandmother. She was a "Gibson Girl" until the day she died (1966). That is not a bad path to follow at all.

Salish Cardigan Update

2009-03-04T09:42:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I'm actually updating the progress of a project! Anyway, the body of the sweater has been divided into three parts: 2 fronts and the back. I am a bit more than half-way finished with the two fronts and am now working on the back. I want to get to the point of the short-row shoulder shapings at the same time. I still have not decided between a three needle cast-off or a Kitchener splice for the shoulder join. If I'm really lucky, I hope to have the sleeves cast-on by the end of next week for two-at-a-time knitting.

Cheetahs

2009-03-03T12:14:00.001-08:00

Cheetahs

Other Pictures I Really Like

2009-02-18T12:18:00.000-08:00

Cheetah:

Lioness and Leopard:

Tigress:

For Love of the Big Cats

2009-02-11T13:58:00.000-08:00

Leopard & Falcon:

Recently in my meandering around the web, I remembered the fantasy paintings of Michael Parks. I would like to eventually get at least one of the limited edition prints. However, I especially liked these as they show-case the big kitties that I love.

Books Read in 2008

2009-02-02T12:40:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that I read all these books last year. There is a real variety in quality represented here, I admit. A number of the action/adventure novels were just too cinematic for my tastes as the plots turned out to be just one cliffhanger after another. I will be adding more of the authors to this list as well as my awards (stars/razzberries):

Amazonia (J. Rollins) **1/2
Black Order (J. Rollins) **1/2
Blasphemy (D. Preston) **1/2
Brimstone (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict ****
Dance of Death (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Deep Fathom (J. Rollins) **1/2
Deep Storm (L. Child) **1/2
Excavation (J. Rollins) **1/2
Ice Hunt (J. Rollins) **1/2
Map of Bones (J. Rollins) **1/2
Mount Dragon (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Pompeii *****
Relic (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Reliquary (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Rip Tide (D. Preston & L. Child) ** 1/2
Sandstorm (J. Rollins) **1/2

Still Life With Crows (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Subterranean (J. Rollins) **1/2
Temple (M. Reilly) * (very frantic; however, loved the rapas)
The Alexandria Link (S. Berry) *****
The Amber Room (S. Berry) *****
The Athena Factor **1/2
The Book of the Dead (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
The Cabinet of Curiosities (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
The Codex (D. Preston) **1/2
The Crystal Skull **1/2 (author a veterinarian)
The Drowning Tree (C. Goodman) *****
The Expected One (RAZZBERRY)(only if you are desperate)(the absolute worst of the Magdalenia)
The Ice Limit (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
The Judas Strain (J. Rollins) **1/2
The Last Oracle (J. Rollins) ***
The Last Secret of the Temple (P. Sussman) *****
The Lost Army of Cambyses (P. Sussman) *****
The Lost Constitution
The Night Villa (C. Goodman) *****
The Romanov Prophecy (S. Berry) *****
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation (Willig) ***
The Secret Scroll
The Secret Supper
The Seduction of Water (C. Goodman) *****excellent mystery
The Templar Legacy (S. Berry) *****
The Third Secret (S. Berry) *****
The Venetian Betrayal (S. Berry) *****
The Wheel of Darkness (D. Preston & L. Child) **1/2
Tyrannosaur Canyon (D. Preston) **1/2

**1/2 = guilty pleasure; just a fun read

Thank You, Darcy, For The Makeover!

2009-02-02T12:22:00.000-08:00

I am taking time now to publically thank my blog designer, Darcy, for this wonderful make-over! Now I have the hard job: deciding what to put back in the sidebars. I know what I'll be doing for most of the week (besides reading and knitting).

52 Books in 52 Weeks

2009-01-13T11:20:00.000-08:00

Ravelry has a new group with a wonderful challenge: 52 books in 52 weeks. I've started a little late; however, I hope to make it up soon. My first book for this calendar year is Steve Berry's newest mystery/thriller The Charlemage Pursuit. Next on my list are Charlaine Harris's Sookie Stackhouse novels/mysteries. Here's to good reading all the way around!

Meeting the Alpacas & A Special Stash Enhancement

2008-09-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I went with two women with whom I knit on Saturday mornings to the Six Paca Farm in Bozrah (http://www.sixpaca.com/) to meet alpacas up close and personal. Even though it was a very rainy day, there were quite a number of them in the field and over a half dozen in a smaller enclave which we could enter. The little guys were about two weeks old and there were several older ones as well. I couldn't leave without getting something; so I bought 6 skeins of a gorgeous natural grey DK weight alpaca. The fleece from which it was spun was Nuthatch's, one of the 45+ herd at the farm. I am going to make the Stonington shawl and two pair of socks from this yarn, which is very soft and wonderful.

I Think I've Got It, Finally!

2008-09-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

I was having a number of difficulties when I first started the Faroese shawl. The first was a major error by the designer on row 5. However, I fixed that by going on the forum site and found corrected instructions. Then, I was a bit confused about the use of the two separate charts and how they went together. Re-reading the instructions was the most important thing I did, finally ("duh" moment of course). Even though I am still very much at the beginning, things are making sense at last. When I finish section 1 I'll take a photo and post it here.

Lace Knitting

2008-09-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I have placed the sweater in my KIP pile and am turning to my new fascination: lace knitting! I am casting the Goddess Knits MS9 shawl which will be a Faroese design. The yarn I am using is Yarn Chef's merino lace weight (Buttercream) in a colourway called Turning Leaf (it looks like a maple leaf, soft yellow and red, probably an over-dye). She does not repeat colourways; however, over time there are always a few that do look similar. As always, I buy more than enough for any project because I can always use the extra for other projects. I think I will also make her a pair of fingerless mitts to go with the shawl. (Yarn Chef has a shop on ETSY, please see my list of yarn artisans on the right for the link.) This is going to be a gift for my best friend, who happens to live in NE Ohio (Yarn Chef is in Columbus). I am also going to do the same shawl for me. Right now I am torn between several lace weight yarns that I have in my stash for this one.

I'll Probably Never Buy From Her

2008-08-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

This is crazy!!! People wait for days and days for the glorious Sundara to post her new yarns -- and there were only three today which sold out almost immediately! I couldn't even get a second look at them. A person cannot even special order from her highness. Let me tell you, there are many talented yarn dyers out there who do gorgeous work and don't have the ego.

Troubles with a Sweater

2008-08-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I still really love the pattern; however, I am virtually re-writing the thing! (I'll edit this tomorrow to give the URL of the original sweater.) Anyway, the sweater is a lovely dolman-sleeved pullover which can probably either be worn with the V-neck in the front or back (it is pictured on the model on the back). In addition, there is a band of eyelets done every 9 rows on the vertical plane. Anyway, looking at the original pattern, I figured it would actually be fairly easy to do this as a virtual one-piece, rather than separate front and back with applied ribbing. It is knit side-to-side in the original pattern! However, I was about 3 inches into it when I had to walk to the frog pond and rip-it all out. The stupid wrist band was too small -- on a size XL! I had to add 6 stitches in order so that it would fit. Then, I had to proportionally increase the stitches for the beginning of the sleeve proper. I'm still swearing at countless other little things that have been popping up. GRRRR!!! However, I did buy some gorgeous Ellyn Cooper cotton boucle yarn (sport weight) in the Thai Amber colourway that I will make another. This one is in Classic Elite Flash.

The Enchantress -- Playing With Leopards

2008-07-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

This is a painting from the early 20th century by Arthur Wardle. Can you all tell I love kitty-cats (especially the big ones)!

Lady With The Leopards

2008-07-15T11:52:00.001-07:00

I fell in love with this painting by Sara Stilwell Weber. As we ALL know, all kitties, whatever size, are still kittens to us and to them we are Mother.

"Who Knows Where The Time Goes?"

2008-06-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

It is very appropriate that the first song on my list is "Who Knows Where The Time Goes?" by Judy Collins. Time does seem to slip through my fingers much too fast. I have sooo much to do!!! Right now I am working on a really pretty summer pullover in Flash, a cotton yarn in a pink, lavendar, and pale yellow colourway. Early in the process (had about 3-4 inches knit) I had to frog the whole thing because the da%^&n designer did not have the right number of stitches for the arms, which would never have fit inspite of the so-called XL designation. Don't you just hate that!!! I still need to cast on for three-shawls (OY!). However, I do have a partial alibi for that -- I have to go to a bead show coming soon in July in order to get the Swarovski crystal beads that I am going to use in them. Don't even ask about all the other works-in-progress!!

New Music

2008-06-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

I have changed my music players on the blogs. My knitting blog now has The Music of My Life, which is a collection of my favourite songs. There are a few which pre-date my birth (1950); however, most of them are from the last half of the 20th century. I have moved my classical music player to my review/rant blog (Peacock Plumes Reviews). It is already on my religion blog, The Leopard's Labyrinth.

Addis Are The Best!

2008-06-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

I finally took the plunge and "gifted" myself with several pair of Addi circular needles (bamboo and lace needles). Why did I wait so long!!!! I had been using INOX, Clover and Susan Bates. The only way I'll use them now is for non-circular uses. I could never keep them from curling up inside themselves, so I was always frustrated. This was probably why I was keeping away from circulars for socks. That will not be true anymore. Yes, they are expensive (around twice what a regular pair of circs will run); however, they are more than worth it.

Exciting New Yarn!!!! Yummmmm

2008-06-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

I have chosen the yarn for the Casablanca KAL Stole (Yes, I did sign-up for yet another knit-a-long.). I chose a yarn from Hand Maiden, Sea Silk, in the Sangria colourway. The yarn is 70% silk and 30% sea cell fiber. It has such a wonderful sheen, especially with the scarlets and purples! The hot colours remind me of a Moroccan bazaar. Now, what to choose for beads? Decisions, decisions....

Another Week -- More to Do

2008-05-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

Time is something that is in short supply. I am going to have to schedule my day somehow in order to get to work on everything I need to do. At least I have my yarn for the Mystic Meadows stole. I still have to purchase the yarn for the three Tree of Life afghans. My friend prefers acrylic; however, I still have to find a wonderful acrylic, since I don't want this to be just another RHS* (Red Heart special). This is going to be harder to find than a lovely wool blend. I have decided to do my sampler throws in one piece rather than in individual squares -- so, I'll be re-starting those. In addition to all this, I have signed up for another shawl KAL!

Shawl/Stole/Afghan KALs

2008-05-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

I have signed up for a lace stole KAL (Knit-A-Long). This is a mystery at the present time as I only know the name: Mystic Meadows (check out the link on my side-bar). I am also on a Ravelry group which is doing Peacock Feathers, another lacy shawl which is really a cape. The yarn I have purchased so far is in a greyish/bluish colourway, very misty in feel. I have also seen something in beautiful shades of green which I might also get, as I can never decide until almost the last minute which colour to use. I am also going to do the Tree-Of-Life afghan as well. Right now I am contemplating what colours I will want as I will probably knit three: one for my Father, one for my best-friend Keri, and one for me. However, bit-by-bit I am becoming more finicky with the yarn I buy. I am finding real differences in quality; and, as it does take time, which is precious, I want to use the best yarn I can get. In fact, I am finickier than my kitties!!

Stash Enhancement

2008-05-07T10:12:00.000-07:00

Well, now I've done it. I've bought my first skeins of hand-dyed yarn. It's in a beautiful blue and green colourway and reminds me of a painting by Waterhouse. I am planning to make a pair of Potamus socks from this. In addition, I bought around 18 skeins of Flash (a 100% mercerized cotton) which has strands of pink, lavendar, and a light yellow. I'm going to make a dolman-sleeved summer sweater which has eyelets from this.

I've Got Too Much Stuff!!!

2008-05-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it!! Some of the stuff on my side-bar isn't showing up, especially the new Web Ring link I joined and my music link! I don't want to take anything down (mumble, mumble, rant, rant, pout, pout, whine, whine). I really had a lot of fun finding the items I post, hoping that other people might find them interesting or amusing. Of course, I could probably take my mainly religious blog off LJ and move it over here (I hardly ever go to LJ anymore). Oh, well, I hope the new 3-column look will take care of this problem.

Am I in the Wrong Universe or Something?

2008-05-01T13:35:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful quote in my side-bar from Adlai Stevenson. Since last week I have been sitting and thinking: is it just me; or, is there suddenly more stupidity than usual out there? The glaring case, aber naturlich, has been the Wright Debacle, which he put on for his own ego. (Now I'm upset that I can't do umlauts!) Of course, the press didn't show off any sapience at all. The only news program which keeps me sane is Keith Olbermann's CountDown.
Now, all of a sudden, I have to come up with every project I would like to teach. I really wanted a student to be able to pick out a pattern out of several on a theme. I was always a little advanced in my choices of materials when I took classes -- so, I didn't want to limit anyone. Anyway, now the earliest I can start teaching is July because they don't take pictures. And, I'm sure if you are a knitter you know how large some projects are. I'll only be doing swatches of a rippled afghan and a fan-lace afghan; however, I'll have to complete the cotton tank as well as a kitchen suite. Oh, well, off to unpaid work -- there's no rest for the mildly wicked.

Easy Scarf

2008-04-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I forgot to post the pattern for a scarf that I created for one of my beginner knitting classes! Anyway, it's never too late....

Cast on 41 stitches (long-tail method)
Row 1: K1 P1 *repeat
Row 2: K1 P1 *repeat
Repeat these 2 Rows Twice (Total: 6 rows)
Row A of Pattern: K1 P1 K1 P1 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P1 K1 P1 K1
Row B of Pattern: K1 P1 K1 P1 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 K3 P3 P1 K1 P1 K1
Repeat Rows A and B until scarf is 47" (or 1" shorter than desired length)
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 for a total of 6 rows
Cast Off
Finishing: Tassel Ends: cut yarn into length desired (approx. 6 strands per tassel); scarf will take approx. 5 tassels per edge

I recommend using a worsted weight or sport weight yarn.

Progress

2008-04-21T10:58:00.000-07:00

I am approximately half-way done with my first square/dishcloth design. In my opinion, the design process is working out better with knitting along as I chart out the rows. This way I can catch small mistakes before they become huge.

Book Quiz: What Book Are You?

2008-04-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

If I could be a book, which book would I be? I am a book lover, so when I saw this quiz (see my answer at the bottom of my blog with the link) on another blog I had to try it.

Working On My First Original Square

2008-04-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have finally taken the plunge! Yesterday I started graphing out a design for a block/dishcloth. I am also going to test it as I design because I need to decide if I want to leave a blank row between each row of design or not. I may not have a picture by the time I post the directions, however. As soon as I am able I will post that as well.

Revisions Ahead For My Layout

2008-04-16T09:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how many links and other things I've collected in my sidebar! I think it is time to revise the layout to three columns. I've asked for help, since I am not an expert in this area.

Frustrated

2008-04-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

I am frustrated because, even though I have my knitting classes on April's schedule at the local AC Moore, no one has yet signed up for them! I've picked out some really beautiful projects (fingerless mitts, spring sweater, lace scarf, felted bag, etc.) as well as generic knitting workshops. I've emphasized that I have chosen the projects so that beginners could also do them. Everyone tells me that knitting is experiencing a boom. When is it going to start for me?

Yes, I Am a Sci-Fi Addict

2008-04-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

I took the test to find out my Nerd Quotient. Even though one would think that someone who was not a complete computer nut/scientist/mathematician could be a nerd, this is not the case. Ever since I was a child (way back in the 50s and 60s) I have always been fascinated by science -- and sci-fi. I have been a Trekkie since 1966, the year Star Trek first appeared on television. Deep down inside I think it would have been terrific if I had gone into astronomy or paleontology -- and I keep up with advances in these fields to this day. However, I am also a frustrated Classicist who is trying to learn Homeric and Attic Greek on my own. There are just so many things that I wish to learn! I really believe that this drive is the key that is keeping me young at heart.

Translation For Helix Panel

2008-04-09T09:50:00.000-07:00

This pattern can be adapted for use as a square for people who like to knit dishcloths. One complete pattern with the recommended border will be 60 rows (38 + 12) in length and 40 stitches in width. I have used seed stitch for my border rather than the indicated garter stitch. In addition, I have not used the selvedge direction for the sides. The sides can always be made a little wider by adding additional mock cables, etc. -- be creative!

Now, as I promised, here is the written translation of the Helix Chart:

HELIX PANEL TRANSLATION (Over 20 Stitches)

CN = Cable Needle; ST/S = Stitch/es

Row 1 P2, K13, P5
Row 2 K5, P13, K2

Row 3 P2, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P1, K2 from CN, P8,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN, P3
Row 4 K3, P2, K10, P2, K3

Row 5 P3, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN, K8,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), K1, K2 from CN, P2
Row 6 K2, P13, K5

Row 7 P5, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN, P7,
Skip next ST, Knit 2nd ST (leave on needle), Then K the Skipped
ST and slip both stitches from needle together, P2
Row 8 K2, P2, K7, P2, K7

Row 9 P7, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN, K4,
Slide 1 ST onto CN (hold in back), K2, P1 from CN, P2
Row 10 K3, P8, K9

Row 11 P9, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P3
Row 12 K5, P4, K11

Row 13 P11, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, K2 from CN, P5
Row 14 K5, P4, K11

Row 15 P9, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, K2 from CN,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), K2, K2 from CN, P3
Row 16 K3, P8, K9

Row 17 P7, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P4,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P1, K2 from CN, P2
Row 18 K2, P2, K7, P2, K7

Row 19 P5, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, K2 from CN, K7,
Skip next ST, Knit 2nd ST (leave on needle), Then K the Skipped
ST and slip both stitches from needle together, P2
Row 20 K2, P13, K5

Row 21 P3, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P8,
Slide 1 ST onto CN (hold in back), K2, P1 from CN, P2
Row 22 K3, P2, K10, P2, K3

Row 23 P2, Slide 1 ST onto CN (hold in back), K2, K1 from CN, K8,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P3
Row 24 K5, P13, K2

Row 25 P2, Take right-hand needle behind left-needle, Skip 1st ST,
K 2nd ST in back loop, K Skipped ST in front loop, Slip both
STS from needle together, P7,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P5
Row 26 K7, P2, K7, P2, K2

Row 27 P2, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P1, K2 from CN, K4,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P7
Row 28 K9. P8, K3

Row 29 P3, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), P2, K2 from CN,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, P2 from CN, P9
Row 30 K11, P4, K5

Row 31 P5, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, K2 from CN, P11
Row 32 K11, P4, K5

Row 33 P3, Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in back), K2, K2 from CN,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), K2, K2 from CN, P9
Row 34 K9, P8, K3

Row 35 P2, Slide 1 ST onto CN (hold in back), K2, P1 from CN, P4,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), K2, K2 from CN, P7
Row 36 K7, P2, K7, P2, K2

Row 37 P2, Take right-hand needle behind left-needle, Skip 1st ST,
K 2nd ST in back loop, K Skipped ST in front loop, Slip both
STS from needle together, K7,
Slide 2 STS onto CN (hold in front), K2, K2 from CN, P5
Row 38 K5, P13, K2

Row 39 = Row 3

Charts--GRR!

2008-04-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

Charts are NOT my preferred way of following a pattern while I am knitting. I much prefer my patterns in words/traditional symbols. The helix pattern I posted about below will need to be "translated." Watch this space as I will post the translation of rows 3-38 for those of you who like to knit the way I do.

Worsted Weight Yarns

2008-04-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

I have a gripe about medium/#4/worsted weight yarns: not all of them knit up the same way with the same needles. The reason I am having this trouble is because not one brand of yarn has all the colours I would like to use for my friend's afghan. Therefore, I have decided to make it a little bit like a "crazy quilt" and really go with some really different size "blocks" (rectangles etc.). One of the new items will be a long "stripe" that will use the DNA pattern I found on the internet. This is the URL www.twosheep.com/helix/ Of course, I am going to have to come up with an interesting way to put all of this together. Any ideas?

Have Graph Paper -- Will Start Patterns!

2008-04-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

I have finally got my hands on graph paper that more clearly indicates the proper ratios of knitting stitches while designing patterns. So, over the next few days I'll be starting on a large-size Greek alphabet along with some of the honorary and social fraternities and sororities (Phi Beta Kappa; Alpha Psi Omega; Lambda Chi Alpha; etc.). For the time-being, however, I will only be posting the directions in this blog -- the pictures will come later as I still need to obtain a digital camera.

A Small Confession

2008-04-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

In addition to knitting I read a lot. Even though I still read "heavy-duty" books in history, philosophy, theology, et al., I also read "jello." In fact, a number of my "jello" books have concerned the subject from "The da Vinci Code". Now, why would an old-fashioned Hellenic polytheist like myself read this type of book? Am I looking for ways to put-down Christian theology? The answer to those questions is, "NO." And though I do find the mythology that has grown around Magdalene does make a lot of sense in many ways, I am not the one who decides what the guiding mythologies for the various Chrisitian sects are. In fact, I find, as a former history major, that there is quite a bit of pseudo-history in these books, ie. Jewish priestesses -- you've got to be kidding! (this was from "The Expected One"). However, most of them are fun to read -- and some are better than others.

Keri's Afghan

2008-03-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

I have finally started my best friend's afghan. We have been friends for forty years, since we started our freshman year at Muhlenberg College in 1968. The first square is finished (whee!!!) and I have cast-on the second. Sometimes I don't realize how fast time flies. I have so many other important projects this year to do: a set of 3 Christmas stockings for friends; designing wedding and baby samplers for them (the same family); finishing my blueberry hill sweater; designing an Aran knit sweater pattern for my husband (he's mostly Irish in heritage); finishing the heart-motif sampler afghan I started, socks, etc.

A Rant About China -- OT

2008-03-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am old enough to remember when the US recognized the Beijing government; however, I never approved of the idea that "China" was one nation because Taiwan was - and still is - a de facto nation. Needless to say, I also believe that Tibet is and should be totally independent from the Beijing. Now, coming to the current fiasco about the Olympics, why oh why did anyone believe that China would change its stripes if it was chosen as a host site? I certainly did not, though it would have been nice to have been proved wrong. I think that the ONLY proper course would be to CANCEL THE OLYMPIC GAMES! If this does not happen, this is the final straw for any moral authority we may think we have on the rest of the world.
(added on 3/27) Of course I can rant about the Peoples Republic on most days (toxic products; slave labour; etc). I will not buy bone beads made there because of the real possibility that the material comes from human beings -- and I refuse to sell anything that I have made which has questionable content. We each have a MORAL and ETHICAL duty to stand up and say, "NO. I will NOT buy products made in the Peoples Republic of China!"

More Done -- More To Do!

2008-03-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I have finished four (4) heart-patterned squares, two in the light dusty rose and two in the dusty purple. I had to make a minor adjustment in the borders of the last one as I prefer seed stitch (I had to cast-on two extra stitches and make the top and bottom borders six rows). Now, I am going to start on my best friend's sampler which has a complete change of colour way and pattern choices. There are so many things that I will have to include that I know this will be much larger than a traditional throw, some of which I will have to chart out! If anyone is interested in a chart for Lehigh (University), PhD, and M'BERG (Muhlenberg College), please let me know.

A Fun Quiz

2008-03-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

I just took one of the quizzes on Quizilla: What Is Your Patronus? Check out the bottom of my blog for the answer (Eagle) and a link to the quiz.

Finished Two, Started Third

2008-03-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have finished my first two squares in Vanna's Choice Dusty Rose and have started a third in Dusty Purple. All three have hearts as the motif, different patterns. I also decided to tie them all together with a seed stitch border (though I really don't remember if any of the patterns called for anything different -- I just prefer seed stitch).
I still need to finish a sweater which I started about 8 weeks ago. The body is almost finished as I did it in the round. I really need to get better circular needles. The ones I used really twisted terribly even though I started off with everything nice and square. GRRR......
I also need to get another set of Size 6 or 7 needles for another sampler afghan I will be doing for my best friend out in Ohio. I guess I have the same complaint: so many projects planned, so little time. ;-)

Corporate Management

2008-03-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have seen "Dilbert-ville" becoming the rule and not the exception in management. I am also speaking as someone who obviously learned something in her MPA programme. Anyway, as of right now, it is all's well that ends well since I am taking my knitting classes to a new venue in April. Maybe we'll get a little more support. (HaHaHa)

Charting

2008-03-03T10:46:00.000-08:00

I am finally getting ready to do up my first charts -- the capital letters of the Greek alphabet! This has been something that I have wanted to do for some time. In addition, I am also going to do one in counted X-stitch. Both will be in various sizes. I am considering using the SP Ionic font as an inspiration for these charts. Maybe in the future I'll do the lower case as well.

Finally Getting Started

2008-02-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

I have joined a number of KAL (knitting along) groups on Yahoo. Most of these are concerned with squares which can be used as dish/wash cloths. I am doing most of mine as squares for afghans, however. The designers in these groups are really getting me thinking about creating patterns as well.
My first KAL project is almost finished (Valentine candy box). I did make one change in the pattern: I am using seed stitch for the borders instead of garter. In the next few weeks I will be getting a digital camera so I can show you how everything turns out.

2008-02-12T12:00:00.000-08:00

Let me intoduce myself to you. This is my second blog on the 'net (my first is on LiveJournal). However, this one will be concerned with the artistic side of my life: knitting and the crafts I do and my first forays into representational art. I will finally have to break down and get a digital camera as my trusty SLR takes much too long!
Anyway, I am in that "certain age"; and, though I do not belong to a club yet, I do wear red hats because I like them. I also love to wear purple; however, I have always loved purple since the time I was a girl.
My maternal Grandmother taught me how to knit when I was around 8 or 9 years old. She had been born in old Tsarist Russia and had immigrated to this country well before the Russian Revolution when she was 16 or 17. In addition, my Mother was very creative as well. She crocheted, quilted, sewed and painted.
However, of all the crafts of my ancestresses, the one that has been the most difficult for me is crochet (sewing machines are also a little bit scary). Maybe some day I will make peace with a crochet hook; but, until then, I have a lot to keep me busy: knitting, needlework (embroidery, x-stitch, etc.), and beading (I make unique jewelry for sale and heirloom-quality prayer beads). Soon I will be adding representational art to my list as I wish to learn to paint with acrylics and oils and draw.
As the title of this blog states, I am a devotee of Athena (Ergane), the Divine Workerwoman. I am a member of Hellenion and Neokori, two religious organizations which are involved with the revival of the religion of the ancient Greeks. In addition to Athena (but not least), I am also especially devoted to Hera Teleia, Hermes, Zeus, and the Muses.