From the Catacombs of My Life

Mattawomen Creek in the Morning

2012-10-26T17:53:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

Discoveries made through occult sciences such as astrology or numerology could see you embrace some rather revolutionary ideas about yourself, the world, and life. You could become involved with a group associated with metaphysical studies or take a class or workshop of some kind. This could mean a new direction for you in some way, Aquarius. It might greatly enhance your life and thinking.

I am Looking for something….

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Got the canoe out Wednesday morning, we sat and watched the sun rise.

The colors were brilliant!

The Mattawomen Creek is a fisherman's paradise and a bird watchers paradise. We saw the most movement of fish,deer,beaver,canada geese and mallard drakes and hens in the early morning hours.

the Canada geese kept a keen eye on our canoe, when we drifted too close they took off!

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We were on our way back down the creek, we took the canoe up creek as far as we could go, Husband and I guesstimated that we traveled about 5.5 mi. round trip. It was the best trip I’d taken in a long time!!

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Sadness

2012-10-07T15:14:00.001-04:00

I am going to be giving this blog a rest, I'm not feeling myself lately...

I'll be checking back in after the New Year.

Bye...for now

Our first canoe Trip

2012-09-22T14:51:00.003-04:00

Now Brian looks kinda "ticked-off", he wasn't...thats his normal/usual look....Hahahahha
Ok,Ok...seriously....

WEll now...thats better! Brian (hubby) has a younger brother that had bought the canoe some years ago, used it for a little while then grew tired of the whole "canoe" thing...So he happily gave it (the canoe) to us.

We took the canoe to Gilbert Run Park, thats is in Charles Co. MD, its close to home and if something should happen (we tip over) there are people around to haul us out of the water...thankgoodness that did'nt happen!

Hubby and I loaded up our canoe and off we went...I was glad that there was a "special" dock at the lake just for canoes & kaykers, as I was a little concerned about getting in and out of that canoe...I don't know If I mentioned it but hubby and I had never been on a canoe. We both know how to swim as we grew up near or on the waterway of Charles County...still I did't want to take a dunk in that lake...

After about 30 min of practicing turning, backing up and stopping we,rather quickly, began to feel quite comfortable on the canoe. You can see how calm the waters were...like glass.

The most exciting was how close we could glide up to the wild life that lives at the lake.

Its not a very good photo of the deer, I brought my little Nikon CoolPix with us...I have a Nikon D40x...but like I'd said...if we accidently took a dump into the lake I'd rather loose the Coolpix than the D40x, =)

Its rather hard to see but there is a family of mallards in this photo, on the other side of the ridge of marsh grass is a beaver dam and they've built a lodge too, I wish I had some photographs of that to share with you all!

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Knitting

A about a month ago, maybe a bit longer I found this pattern by Rebecca Danger, she is such a talented knitter! I'd seen lots of her creations,monsters and such, on that wonderful knitters web-site "Ravelry"

WEll it just so happened that I had a magazine with several of rebecca's patterns, I decided on making "Harriet the Haberdashery Hippo"

It took me about 2 weekends to complete her, I did'nt have any "toy-eyes" so I opted for the good old stand by...Buttons!

I also added the two pony-tails and a cute little necklace.

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Well today is the first days of "Autumn". The trees will be changing their color form green to blazing oranges,reds and yellows in a few weeks. We've got plans to take the canoe over to the Mattawomen Creek in Indian Head MD. That area is teaming with water fowl such as the Bald Eagle and the Blue Heron. I am espically looking foreward to a relaxing afternoon on the water and seeing what I can capture with my camera.

2012-06-17T21:04:00.001-04:00

Fiona, A Wonderful Cardigan

2012-03-10T11:33:00.001-05:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

You're a born romantic by nature, Aquarius, but today you're likely to think more in terms of physical passion than idealized romance. You're likely to be especially concerned with your appearance, and might want to go for a professional makeover or buy some new clothes. The color blue might seem especially appealing right now, but don't forget to add some red for passion! Phone your romantic interest and have fun tonight!

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Knit, Knit, Knit = H~A~P~P~I~N~E~S~S!

This beautiful cardigan is called “Fiona”, Its designer, Lena Holme Samsoe has a new book out called “Essentially Feminine Knits”. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it! now the book is not available you but you can pre order it through knitting Daily web-site.

I love this little design detail on the back of the cardigan, just 2 little tucks made using a cable needle adds just the perfect touch.

I’ve been knitting lots of triangular neck scarves this past winter, all use the garter stitch. My favorites have been by knit designer Annie Lee.

My favorites thus far are “Minnie”, it’s a garter stitch neck scarf with these little bobbles along the edge, very easy and very rewarding! I can work this pattern up in about a weekend…I like that “almost” instant gratification that a quick knit gives me! =)Close up of my “Minnie”

This is my finished “Minnie” , it was knit with Berroco “Vintage”, the yarn was very nice to work with

Next up is the “January Scarf”, (sorry I don’t have any pic to share with you)again it’s a garter stitch pattern with these awesome little eyelet points along the edge, then last but not least the “Autumn Scarf”.(again, sorry I don’t have any pic to share with you) This pattern has an eyelet lace edge that keeps increasing along the edge, its an eye catcher!! if you want to see more of Annie Lees knit designs check out Jumper Cables Knitting blog, you can find super cute patterns for free and she has knit patterns for sale too…

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Family Loss

2012-01-11T20:12:00.001-05:00

December 2011 brought much sadness to my family. My Brother-in-law, Billy Page passed suddenly at home on December 6,2011

Then on Friday December 16th my father, Richard Sample was diagnosed with cancer of the liver, he succumbed to the disease just 13 days later on December 28, 2011. He passed quietly at home with his family at his side. Its been a sad,sad, ending to 2011

A small pictorial of my neighborhood

2011-10-23T10:05:00.001-04:00

Tobacco barns dot the country side here in Charles Co. Md.

A very tall tree…

WAAaaaa…. Sad Pumpkin

Tobacco Barn hiding amongst the trees

A view of the Potomac river through the trees

A snow covered field on a cold winter morning.

my Husband, Brian…

My husband Brian and my nephew Nick

Snow storm

Drop Spindle and Lopi Yarn

2011-10-21T22:50:00.001-04:00

Drop Spindle and Lopi Yarn

I am so excited! I got my drop spindle kit! I know…I know…unless your not into Knitting or any yarn crafts who gives a BIG crapola about a “drop-spindle” =) its just that I’ve been want to learn how wo spin my own yarn for such a long time…sitting here now I can’t even remember why I waited so long to buy a drop spindle…hell, the kit comes with roving and a small manual…I just have to start practicing!!

On another “yarn” note, my sister-in-law was out yard-sale shopping last Saturday. I get a phone call and it goes something like this…”hey Lisa”…its Gail, I am at this lady's house and she has a HUGE bag of yarn that she is selling. “What kind of yarn is it?” I ask. Well, Gail reply's…its brown,grey and a tweed color. Hummm, I think to myself I thought I just asked her “what kind of yarn not what color of yarn…like mother like daughter I continue to think…”OK” I say to Gail how much does she want for the yarn…$2! HUH< ok,ok…but it and I’ll square up with you later,K…Huggs! Well it turns out that the bag of yarn had 31 skeins of Lopi pure Icelandic wool, in tweed earth tones. Its scratchy as hell…I did an internet search on the stuff and on the Knitters Review they said that it felts very easily and to be very careful when wet blocking, do not agitate it at all…even in cold water. Also, the scratchiness is there to stay, no amount of wool wash will soften it up. its great for sweaters but you’ll need to wear a shirt underneath. I am working on a small swatch with the Lopi yarn. Its got great stitch definition…Wow…that was a lot of yarn for a mere $2.

Back to the drop spindle…I spun about a yard of the roving and then I knit this very small swatch for my wool-labors. its going to take time…but I will master this craft!

I got 3 large balls of wool roving.

This weekend will be spent learning the craft of spinning

“Minnie” A Triangular Shawl

2011-10-21T22:27:00.001-04:00

I have to say “I LOVE this shawl”, the pattern can be found on "Jumper Cables Knitting" web-site. This lovely yellow-orange neck scarf was knit in Malabrigo, I used 2 skeins of yarn and I used color-way 96-sunset. I just adore this yarn! so much so that I have ordered 5 more skeins of this lovely, buttery-soft yarn…in various color-ways of course.

I used sz 7 aluminum needles. As I was saying I did use 2 skeins of yarn, I use the forst to knit to the midpoint of the triangle then I attached the 2nd skein of yarn and finished the project. I am predicting a cold snow winter for us here in the mid-Atlantic…I can’t wait for it to get nice and cold so I can wear all my lovely winter knits!!

I love the way the malabrigo yarn feels wrapped around my neck.

This is Minnie knit in Berroco "Vintage" in the new color way Petunia, it looks more like a blue in the photos but its actually a deep purple.

I had 4 skeins of Berroco “Vintage” and I again use 2 skeins per neck scarf, knitting to the mid-way point of the triangle then attaching the 2nd skein of yarn. both of these scarves were gifted to 2 of my very special friends. I used sz 6 bamboo needles with this yarn. It’s a very easy pattern, perfect for the advanced beginner. the eyelets and bobbles along the edge give it the extra special design accent that makes people take a second look. The Berroco “Vintage” has a nive drape and shows the stitches nicely. The neck scarf is knit in garter stitch.

Annie Lee can be found on Ravlery

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Its Fall Ya’ll

2011-09-30T09:27:00.001-04:00

I have been really loving this pattern I found on Ravelry called “Minnie”. It’s a lovely little triangular neck scarf with little bobbles along the edge. The month of August I was busy knitting these lovely shawls, the one in the picture is knit with Berroco "Vintage". It’s a deep plum color. I used sz. 7 aluminum knitting needles and just over 1 skein of yarn.

I also knit 2 more “Minnie” shawls in Caron "Simply-Soft". This is a wonderful yarn for this project! One skein of yarn is all you need to knit this shawl. The yarn is acrylic so after care is easy, it has a nice drape and many different colors to choose from! Also at under 4$ a skein you could make a dozen of these shawls and not worry about breaking the bank… =0 I also made one of these shawls using Lion Brand Yarn "Tweed-Stripes", Now…that was one beautiful shawl! It took 2 skeins of yarn. I knit to the middle with the 1 st skein the I began decreases with the 2 nd skein, the colors in “Woodlands” tweed stripes were beautiful… However I could just kick myself for not taking pics before giving the shawl away as a gift. I’ll have to ask the recipient to take some photos…it was truly beautiful. I used 2 skeins because the yarn is chunky and it was going to need extra length so that it would be comfortable wrapping it around the neck. The tweed stripes is a chunky yarn that is very cozy and soft, perfect for a garment that’s up close and personal.

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Its Autumn!

I am so excited! Our temperatures have taken a dip, the trees are just beginning to show some signs of color change…I have been putting away my summer clothes and pulling out my cooler weather accessories. I got an e-mail from Jared Flood and it was his "Wool People", showcasing his new yarn "Shelter". The patterns are absolutely beautiful! You fall in love…

This little caplet was knit with Lion Brand yarn, I combined sock yarn with fisherman's wool and this was the finished garment. It began as a “cowl” and it ended up a caplet…it was a curious journey with a warm and happy ending.

My original neck scarf, I can’t wait to wear this little beauty. This was my 1st attempt at “lace” knitting. I was so intimidated by all the yarn overs & slip,slip knit and all those little tiny stitches…I took my time and kept my cool. Now I have the fruits of my labor to wear proudly…even though I ran out of yarn and had to substitute with a slightly different color…I LOVE it!!

finally my Pony Tail hat and a pair of mittens to match. A lot of my projects start out as something I’ve seen on Ravelry, or a free pattern in a magazine and a little imagination on my part and I end up with something very original. For example my “Pony-tail Hat”, I had a skein of Donegal Highland Wool from Elann, a set of circular bamboo knitting needles…I think I was going to make a pair of socks and who’d of though it would have evolved into a hat that accommodates a pony-tail…its one of those mysteries we may never know.

Finished My “Baktus”

2011-08-21T14:34:00.001-04:00

My neighbors went to Turkey for 2 weeks back in July. I dog sat for them, I really enjoy taking care of Boss…when they, my neighbors, came home they bought me back some yarn from Turkey. The yarn is called Alize cashmira wool. It sort of reminded me of Lion Brand Wool Ease, only thing however is that the Lion Brand Wool Ease is a bit thicker…

The colors were very vibrant! Its got wonderful stitch definition. Karius is a triangular neck scarf. There are 2 versions of this neck scarf. Baktus is the garter stitch version and Karius is the stockinette version.

The names of these scarves are based on 2 characters in a Norwegian Children's Classic.

The finished scarf didn't really require any blocking, I did however do a light blocking because I wanted a little more length to my scarf. I do not care for a tight scarf…I really like the triangular shape.

I am very pleased with the finished project. I mostly worked on it during the weekends and sometimes in the evenings during the week. It used the entire skein of yarn and I ended up with just a few inches of yarn left over.

I’m So “Crazy for Ewe”

2011-07-23T13:36:00.001-04:00

I just read where a teenager dies from the heat, These past few days the daytime temps have reached the upper 90’s…figure in the heat index from the un-godly humidity and it feels like 155 degrees! My neighbors have a pool, they are always asking us to come over and swim…but seriously…its bee too dam hot to go swimming! Sounds crazy…I know.

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New Yarn in Shades of Purple

I stopped by my local yarn store the other day. They temps here are so high and the humidity makes them totally unbearable So I decided that I was just going to spend the next few days inside doing my favorite thing…knitting!! I bought 2 skeins of Elizabeth Lavold’s “Silky Wool” in color 97, it’s a dark purple and those deep cool colors called to me on this hot hot day.

I’ve been wanting some sock yarn So the helpful women at "Crazy For Ewe" pointed me towards a lovely display of beautiful sock yarns…there were so many beautiful color ways…I wanted to but one of each =)

I ended up choosing a skein of "Colinette" sock yarn, Jitterbug in color-way 33. I don’t know what I have in mind for this skein of yarn. Knitting socks really isn't my thing but there is an easy “sock” pattern on the inside of the label…maybe I will knit a pair of socks with this lovely skein of yarn. Heaven knows the socks would be just wonderful… silky soft yarn = silky soft socks

Next on my yarn shopping list was some "Berroco Vintage" yarn. When I first began knitting Berroco was my yarn bran of choice. I love their vast selection of yarns and the prices’ are very reasonable. The web-site has lots of free patterns many for the “beginner”, as my confidence and skills grew I was able to find patterns that matched my level of knitting as well as my taste in projects. So…Berroco yarns will always have a special place in my heart and in my “yarn-stash”

the sunlight streaming through the trees this morning was so pretty…the woods look so cool and inviting,BUT the temperature when I took this photo was already 86 degrees and it was only 8:00 in the morning add the humidity and it felt like the mid 90’s! The Day Lilly's fiery red color is exactly how this day feels! It’s a beautiful flower.

LiveJournal Tags: Berroco,knitting

Boss’s family has come back from their 2 week vacation. I enjoyed having him stay with us so much!! Its been 2 days since I’ve seen him, well don’t you know yesterday I was standing in the kitchen going through the mail and I heard a funny noise at the door. I glanced over and saw a brown thing through the window…I couldn't make out what it was… then it was gone fast as that! Then the noise started again and I looked out the window and there was Boss…standing on his hind leg looking through the door…looking for ME! I opened the door and he came in all wags and smiles. My husband and I laughed…it made me feel so good.

Baa-Baa-Baa…What the HECK is that??

2011-07-07T21:24:00.001-04:00

Check this out…its called the karton barnyard method ram. its made from super high grade heavy duty corrugated cardboard…I think its just adorable…get yours here_____

The brown one is a ram and the white one is an ewe…the cost is $72. The little ones are lambs, so sweet !!

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Shelter…All American Yarn

2011-07-04T20:51:00.001-04:00

I have 8 skeins of "Shelter Wool" by Jared Flood of Brooklyntweed. I have been in a bit of a conundrum, you see I bought 8 skeins each in a different color. I didn't want to make/knit a hat, I’d searched Ravelry for 1 skein patterns but nothing was right…then I happened upon a pattern called Falling Leaves Afghan.

I have autumn colors in my Shelter yarn…OMG, this will be great! I have been knitting my squares and then when I get up to about 16 squares, I wet them then I block them out to 4” squares.

I am going to need many more squares…So far I have 4 of each color.I love the color of this yarn and the way it feels in my hand…

for the longest time I was mad at myself for only getting 1 of each color…I am so glad that I found a very suitable pattern. I am not going to make a full sized afghan…but a lap blanket for my Dad would be perfect!

M. I. A.

2011-06-05T19:29:00.001-04:00

Is there anybody in there? Hello…

OH, there you are?! Wow you’ve been gone for a time, couple weeks or so…

(Me) Yea, I was caught up in work, Dad got sick, but he is better now, =) hey…I have some cool pics to share with you all and some interesting this to talk about too, So…lets get started =) I am ready to get back on the “blog-train”

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Shadow Neck Shawl

Fresh off the circular sz 8’s, it looks like a pile of___! LOL

I gave my shawl a nice cold bath with a bit of wool wash. After blocking I used my iron on the “wool” setting and a light steam to hold the points of the shawl in place.

As you can see above I did run out of the knit picks “Shadow” color way. I had another skein of Knit Picks "shadow" but in a slightly different color way. In the photos it’s a bit more obvious…but when I am wearing it its nearly invisible…

My shawl was knit in the round, its designed to be worn folded in half then secured about the neck.

This yarn is very nice feeling against the skin! When folded in half it is sure to keep those cold winds from old Man Winter at bay!!

The hat was knit with "Zealana". The hat is my own personal pattern and will be offered for sale soon! I enjoyed working with the Zealana yarn, it’s a chunky yarn and I needed 2 skeins for the “Pony_Tail_Hat” aka “Winter Pleasures Hat” It was knit in the round and is is fairly quick knit, I did mine in a weekend. =)

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Basket Class

I am having a basket weaving call at my home on June 12th. We are going to be making the basket pictured. I can’t wait!! I have 9 confirmed friends coming to spend the day and make this lovely basket

cost for the class is $45, I am going to provide drinks and light snacks. All-in-all it will be a grand day, I’m sure. I get my supplies from "V.I Reed & Cane", they have excellent prices, kits for beginners to the more experienced and they are vey knowledgeable. I like being able to get everything I need for a project from one place.

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Give Me Shelter

I am still holding onto my yarn from Jared Flood, I bought 8 skeins, 8 different colors…I just have found the right project…What I should have done was purchased at least 2 of each color. I want to knit something spectacular with the yarn I covet =) , I just don’t see that happening with 1 skein, I could do a 2 color project…UGH…what's a girl to do?? if any of you have a suggestion for a 1 skein project toss me a message and please, please point me in the right direction, K, thanks

My Silky Wool is on the needles. I am working on a scarf with different blocks of the seed stitch. I am loving this yarn! Its available in so many luscious colors, every color of the rainbow and then some! Its got a lovely drape.

I just adore this hat and glove set, I’d like this pattern and half a dozen skeins of “silky-wool” thank you… =)

Finished!!

2011-05-11T16:00:00.000-04:00

I finished My Noro scarf today!! I need to weave in the ends, as they are strategically hidden for photo purposes =)

I am going to do a little light blocking…

I believe I had stated in an earlier post that I followed the pattern recipe to the “T”…well, I digress…I did do a few things differently, like some stripes are wider then others, at one point the 2 yarn skeins colors were becoming similar in color so I snipped on skein and started from the center which was a very different color all together.

What I wanted to accomplish was a dramatically stripped scarf…I am very pleased with my final product! YA =)

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Late Mothers Day gift arrives…

Well…On Saturday I was watching QVC and they were showcasing Kathy VanZeeland purses…DH and LD (darling husband and lovely daughter) always fret about “what to get me”, so I decided to make it easy on them. I really adore Kathy VanZeeland purses…really,really adore them

both purses have tons of room and this really cute key-fob. I have never owned a “white” purse before today…

I am going to use the white purse as my Summer accessory

The black purse will be my Fall/Winter accessory

Revised Hat Pattern

2011-05-08T21:41:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

Today you feel a tug of war between desires and obligations, Aquarius. If you're smart about managing time, maybe you can satisfy both. You could be discouraged by how hard you've been working for minimal results. Take heart. You're accomplishing more than you realize. Your strong work ethic is what keeps you from having fun. Everyone needs some downtime. Work hard and then indulge your need to play.

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Pony-Tail revised…

I am getting ready to release my pony-tail hat pattern…I’ve had several knitting friends “test knit” the pattern I’d written. I was very nervous/excited about the whole thing. I’d never really thought about having anyone purchase my patterns, hell…I’d never even thought about writing patterns…it just sorta happened =)

The tan pony-tail hat in the top picture is the 1st one that I knit to pattern. Then I decided to make a few minor changes and I re-knit / re wrote the pattern and that is the purple hat. its actually rose colored.

Now here is the “rose” colored hat again and it looks…”tan?” eesh =/ O-well… the new pattern gives the hat a nice cuff and the pattern rather looks like a Brioche stitch, but its not. I am going to offer my pattern at $3.00 . it will be at least another week as I want to print the pattern and knit it up and just make sure everything is good.

I wore this hat all winter, I got so many inquires…”where did you buy it?”, “Could you make me one?”, “Where can I get the pattern?” finally a friend said to me “you know Lisa, you should write that pattern up and sell it”. It was that comment that got the gears turning.

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FREE knitting patterns are everywhere on the internet, one of my favorite knitting patterns for hats is using the 1x1 rib pattern. I love the way the brioche stitch looks and the 1x1 rib mimics the brioche stitch and for me doing the 1x1 is easier and I like that! I found this pattern knit hat pattern and want to share it with you =)

MMmmm….I just love this comfy-cozy hat! it would make the perfect gift for the man in your life.

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How do You Blog?

Have you heard of Windows Live Writer? It’s a program that you use to “blog” with. Its easy, that’s why I like it =). I also have 2 blogs through blogger.com I love to add photos I’ve taken and stuff…but sometimes trying to add what I wanted to my blog was tedious…So I stumbled onto this windows Live Writer and…wow, I plugged in my other blogs and now I can do or add what I want to my blogs from one place. Its really a great program. It may have been around for years….I don’t know, I just found it and so its new to me. Click Me~Click Me~Click Me

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Now what are you gabbing About….?

I know I jump around from subject to subject, but I want to gab about make-up, specifically Aveda liquid foundation. I was given a bottle of Aveda Inner Light liquid foundation to try. I figured it would be like all the other liquid foundations…but I was blown away by this product! its went on smoothly, coverage was thorough with a small amount and it lasted all day. Aveda Inner Light foundation has a permanent place in my make-up case =)

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Hello

2011-05-04T21:22:00.000-04:00

Checking phone to blog email

Homemade Doughnuts

2011-05-01T14:18:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

A social event that involves the discussion of intellectual topics could occur today, Aquarius. You could decide to go with a love partner. You're likely to enjoy the gathering so much that you may stay late into the night and then spend another hour or so discussing it with your partner. Afterward, anything could happen! In the future you will remember tonight as magical. Make the most of it!

Well now…this is interesting. My daughter is coming over today with her “friend” to have Sunday dinner. Baked chicken with stuffing and mashed potatoes with gravy, peas, Cranberry sauce…and Homemade Glazed Doughnuts

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There is a wonderful website~blog http://www.thepioneerwoman.com if you’ve never been there then you must follow that link…Ree Drummond has put together the most informative blog…recipes galore, photography tips and hints, lovely stories about her family… I have made at least half dozen of her recipes, they have all become my family's favorites. Today I am making doughnuts from scratch… I have never done this, I like to eat doughnuts….yes-yes I do! =0

this is a 2 day event so plan accordingly…

I had most of the very basic ingredients on hand, I did have to get unsalted butter and whole milk.

I have been dabbling in making bread of late, so I even already had yeast in the pantry. I like to watch the yeast get all bubbly and stuff…the smells remind me of my Grandmothers house. Everything was made by hand…

The recipe was so easy to follow. It always makes it easier to get everything you’ll need out and accounted for

I even got to use my vintage Pyrex mixing bowl =)

My kitchen Aide mixer is a life saver when it comes to “dough”. After the doughnut dough was thoroughly mixed I plopped the whole thing into a lightly greased bowl covered it with saran wrap and into the fridge it went…

Now its Sunday morning…

It didn't look like that much dough…

I got 30 doughnuts from that “little” ball of dough. Well after I’d rolled it out and started cutting it was apparent that I was going to get a lot of doughnuts. that’s all good because I do love the little rascals! Oh…don’t forget the doughnut holes

All these plus a plate full of the little round lovelies O-yum!!

I didn't have an actual doughnut cutter so I improvised and used a thin walled drinking glass and a decorating piping end thingy…they worked perfectly! the glass is just 3” and that little other thingy about 3/4 of an inch….

into the 350 degree oil they go…..

It only takes 15 seconds on each side… and about 15 seconds total for the little doughnut holes!

In no time flat I had a lot of doughnuts! I couldn't wait to try one!!

I ended up with 30 doughnuts…Husband and I each ate one then we split one.

for my glaze I used some Pillsbury frosting, I put 1/2 of the can in a bowl and warmed it in the microwave for 20 seconds, then I added about 1 Tbsp. of heavy cream and wisked it until it was smooth. Half the doughnuts I dipped in the chocolate and the other half got a coating of vanilla…I did the same with the doughnut holes. My co-workers are going to be in for a BIG surprise tomorrow when I show up with this wonderful treats!!

How I spent My Easter Sunday

2011-04-27T16:38:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

If you've been thinking about investing, Aquarius, this isn't the day to commit to anything. This is a great day to consider your options, study economic trends, and analyze what you want from investing. It isn't a good day to hand over the money. Land could be a strong possibility. Consult with professionals, read the papers, and look into all kinds of opportunities before committing to one.

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Easter Sunday was a Beautiful day! The temperatures were in the low 80’s and the sky was dotted with big white fluffy clouds.

I am almost done with my Noro Scarf . first time I’d seen this pattern was on Jared Floods blog www.brooklyntweed.blogspot.com

When ever I think about Noro yarn my mind goes right to this scarf! the colors are just spectacular!

I am almost finished…I jus have to decide how long I want my scarf to be. I do like a nice long scarf.

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After Easter dinner Husband and I went over to Bryans Road, our favorite park Chapman’s Landing aka Mt. Aventine is a lovely place to enjoy nature. The walk from our vehicle to the big house is about .5 mi. then about another .5 mile down to the river.

this photo resembles so many of my photos at Chapman's Landing…the long driveway leading up to the estate house flanked by cedar trees

blooming flowers are everywhere and the birds were singing merrily… =)

there is so much to see…if you just slow down and look around you

Max R.I.P would always be happy to for a walk at Chapman's Landing. The Potomac River was an amazing sight for Max, he’d never seen so much water!

the home at Chapman's Landing

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Moultrie Game Camera

2011-04-20T21:46:00.001-04:00

I bought DH (darling husband) on of those digital cameras that you strap to trees Moultrie game camera is the brand we got…hunters use them to see what size deer are frequenting their hunting grounds and such…we got it just “for fun”. We live on the edge of the Zikaha swamp in Southern Maryland, so we were curious to see what animals frequented our property. I am hoping to get photos of turkey,fox's and raccoon!! We set the camera up down in the huge gully-valley behind our house. There is a nice stream there and DH tells me that wild animals use the streams like woodland highways. I opened up a can of dog food to lure any prospective creatures in. My brother-in-law has a Game Camera also, He has photographed fox, raccoon, possum and the neighborhood cat on his camera. He lives about 5 miles from us…so I was certain that we’s get some good animal photos, So 2 days later we retrieved the camera and had 40+ pics. WOW,

WELL, imagine our surprise when we opened the pictures on the camera and saw…CROWS yup, dozens of crows! I didn't even think they could fly in the woods…O-well

Back to the drawing board. I was just…flabbergasted! The dog food was the same color as the ground. Crows must have amazing eyesight! Geeze…crows

I will say this…the Moultrie brand is a very good camera! This camera also takes photos at night and they're excellent quality.

My “Brother” has Arrived

2011-04-13T08:45:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

A new piece of equipment could be delivered to the workplace and make you feel like you've received a new toy. Resist the temptation to spend the afternoon playing! You should be feeling especially playful right now, Aquarius, so this is a good time to organize or attend a sporting event. Unusual happenings throughout the day could make your head spin, so you will need some fun in the evening!

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Its Here!! Its Here!! My Brother sewing machine arrived on Friday, just like Amazon promised…Saturday I happily spent reading the manual and getting familiar with the machine. I was a little apprehensive…I have some knowledge of sewing machines and how and why things work…but WOW, this was computerized and had so many stitch selections and stuff.

But I got myself together…a fresh cup of coffee and the machine’s manual in hand…it was actually quite easy. I got the bobbin wound and I got the upper thread threaded through all the guides…

I decided to go with the “"Project Runway" machine. This machine consistently had very favorable reviews.

I did actually do a little sewing Saturday, I have some fabric scraps and used them to “test sew” to make sure I had threaded everything properly. This sewing machine is so quiet! I am anxious to start a project now! I need a few more things however…I am set up on the kitchen table right now, I need to get a sewing cabinet or a study crafting table. Then I can begin my quest for the perfect project and pattern! =)

Cheese Cake you Say…

2011-04-03T17:40:00.001-04:00

I made my wonderful cheese cake today. This is for my friend that I work with, her mothers birthday is tomorrow.

I started out with 6 blocks of Philadelphia regular cream cheese, 4 lg. eggs and 2 egg yolks, 3 oz regular sour cream and1/2 c. heavy whipping cream.

add some vanilla flavoring and white sugar, mix well but don’t whip the batter.

I make my own graham cracker crust.

My pan is an 8” spring from pan…I always end up with more batter than I can put in the pan so…

I make a little extra graham cracker curst and I make husband and I our own little cheese cake!

With all the dairy products that goes into a cheese cake you need to bake this cake a little differently…

I place my largest Pyrex dish, 10”x15”, I fill it with about 6 C. water and place it on the bottom rack on the oven then I place the cheese cake on the rack above. I bake the cheese cake at 350 degrees for 10 min., then I reduce the heat to 250 and bake for 60 min. then I turn the oven off and let the cake sit in the hot/warm oven until the pan is cool enough that I can pick it up with out hot pads.

As you can see the edges did turn a little tan, that is what I want to avoid. After the cake has completely cooled you may top the cake with your choice…My husband likes cherry pie filling. However this cheese cake stands fine on its own…

this evening husband and I will enjoy a smaller version this evening.

If you would like the actual recipe for this wonderfully dense and creamy dessert you may e-mail me and I will send it to you =)

LisaPage0208@gmail.com

Brother PC-210 PRW Limited Edition Project Runway Sewing Machine

2011-04-02T20:18:00.001-04:00

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I ordered my sewing machine today!! I am so excited, I can’t wait until it arrives EEeeeee =)

Its received very good reviews from seasoned as well as beginner seamstresses. With the touch of a button, the LED screen displays the stitch pattern number. The needle position change function allows you to move the needle to the left or center making it easy to sew fabric at the precise point you need a stitch. All 50 stitches are available for reference whenever you need to make your next stitch.

Where Did the Sun Go?

2011-04-02T10:33:00.001-04:00

Aquarius

January 20 - February 18

When you run errands today, check the bulletin boards in local businesses. You may have been longing for adventure and dreaming about getting away from it all, Aquarius, but today you might find the excitement you crave right in your community. New events, people, and businesses that you will enjoy could be moving in. You might also discover a group that shares one of your interests.

*well now…adventure~excitement…? “Mega-Millions”

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we got a computer phone call from our local govt. the other night about an accident that happened just up the road from home…Darrell Gene Sallie was hit and left lying on laying on the side of Rt. 6. These signs were set up just days afterwards, anyone that may have seen “anything” is asked to call with information that will assist with the investigation, Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack at 301-392-1200. The vehicle that the police are looking for is a 1990 Ford Expedition. Our thoughts and Prayers go out the family and friends of Mr. Sallie.

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What's On My Knitting Needles?

I bought 8 skeins of “Shelter” by Jared Flood a few months back. I’ve yet to get that yarn on my needles. I’ve seen several projects that others have knit, shawls, hats and a few scarves…but I haven't found the right pattern, you know what I mean? I’ll search some more today.

Actually…I’m not feeling the LOVE regarding knitting…I look at patterns on Ravelry and then I jump on over to Purl Bee Blog and see what their creative minds have knit-up or sewn-up, I do enjoy reading the PurlBee blog! Amazing creativity =) But I just can’t get my knitting mojo in gear. I’ve even picked up my crochet hook just for something different. I think my knitting and crafting creativity has taken leave of absence because of our weather…seriously, the sun has not been out for over a week!

Every day its cloudy and cold and gloomy!

The sky is thick with clouds, last Saturday or it might have been Sunday we woke up to 1.5” of SNOW on the ground!!

IT was a pretty snow. It didn't stick to the roads but all the trees got a good coating.

by 3:00 that afternoon it was all gone but the cold temps have been sticking around.

Every morning we wake up to mid 30’s. the daytime high temps are usually in the upper 40’s.

OHHhh I am so ready for Mr. Sunshine and the 60 and 70 degree days I love. Until then I guess I’ll just meander around inter-web land….Ciao my friends =*