I remember at the end of 2008 or beginning of 2009, I made a post. A sort of resolution type of post... and sure I could look it up and read what it said and see if I accomplished what I set out to do. I feel like I should make another such post about 2010 and what I hope to do/see/make/accomplish. I think it's good to have goals.
But before doing that, I already feel like I might have done some of those things in 2009... and I may not have and if I didn't, it's ok because I realize that for me 2009 was definitely a growth experience.
I've heard quite a bit here recently that poeople didn't really like 2009, they were glad it was going and looking forward to 2010. My 2009 was really not that dismal. In fact, I can't really recall a SUPER BAD time of 2009. Sure, there were ups and downs but mostly what I remember are some of the amazing experiences I have had this year.
So before I make my 2010 LIST, I'm going to go back on what I'd like to call HIGHLIGHTS of 2009.
First memorable moment, spending the weekend with Cath and Audra and Tammy in Hocking Hills at a cabin. Unfortunately a couple of others couldn't make the trip due to weather. It was sad and we missed them. But, I found myself having a great time in spite of some of those things. We had great food, knitting, a roaring fire, lots of snow and ice, one seriously BROKEASS truck that barely got us there and home and one helluva large icey hill that promised to be the death of my beancountknitter. All in all I can look back and laugh. It was riot! I hope to have another of those weekends this year, but in better weather for sure!
#2, my lovely Knit Knite gals gave me a LOVELY birthday knit knite with Graeters Rasperry Chocolate Ice Cream cake (thanks JULANE!). It was such a great birthday, surrounded with friends, knitting and ice cream cake! YUM! I have had the unfortunate experience of some less than stellar birthdays in years past, so this was definitely one fantastic day.
#3, Knit Camp with Sarah and Audra in the middle of somewhere in PA (seriously). The camp was great, I met a lot of wonderful new people (knitters). We chatted and knit all weekend, had great food and bought some alpaca and got to pet my first Alpaca. His name was Pretty Boy Floyd and he was certainly a charmer. Speaking of which, I still have that alpaca yarn, I must work something up with it, soon!
#4, While still in February, I took on a new position at work... this was both great and bad. And let me tell you there was a LOT of bad with this one. But I got through it. I wasn't the best person during this time, to myself, to my co-workers or to my family. I didn't like who I was most of that time, but I was just so unhappy and I couldn't get out of it... but Brian did put up with me and we eventually took a vacation that managed to fix things.
#5, TRIP TO BOSTON! It was definitely a good time. Highlights of the trip were going to Salem (loved it) and meeting up with Brian's grandparents. It was so nice to visit and hang out with them. Then we took the train to Gloucester to meet up with them the next day, too. It was a fabulous time driving around the peninsula and checking out the boats, beaches and even a yarn shop!
#6 SOCK SUMMIT... so roughly 4 weeks after vacation I headed out to to Oz... at least that is what it felt like. All the buildup all year for sock summit and it was finally HERE. I had a wonderful time. There was a lot more I wished I could have done, more people I wanted to talk to, more pictures I should have taken and bravery I wish I had... but all in all it was a spectacular experience. I am so fortunate that I got to do it and so happy that I did. And the yarn.... oh heavens the yarn!
So those were the major highlights/memorable moments in 2009. There were lots of knitting gatherings, fiber festivals attended and a LOT of yarn was bought. Oh and I did sell some of the stash too. But I still have a lot left and I'm still not knitting as fast I want, but maybe some day, I can use it all!
Showing posts with label 2009. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2009. Show all posts
Monday, January 4, 2010
Friday, January 2, 2009
Welcome to 2009
SO I guess I need to start 2009 off a day or so late, but eh... no biggie.
We rang in the New Year with Andyman and the Prodigals at the LC. It was a fun time. I expected a lot more people, but it was a good crowd anyway.
For dinner on the first, we had Pork and Kraut, the obligatory first meal of the new year to bring luck or something. Where this tradition started, I have no clue. But it was something we did growing up, so I carry that with me. And Brian loves sauerkraut, too. I also made a brie-something. Can't remember the name, but basically it was brie wrapped in pastry with pecans and honey. Had it a few weeks ago and it was one of the best ways I've ever had Brie. Unfortunately, my pastry shell leaked and the brie rolled out into the dish all creamy and melty and mixed with the honey. It was still good though.
Today, was my appointment for eye surgery. I had lasek done in my left eye. And in my very bad right eye, he performed and AST/PRK surgery. I was pretty nervous while having it done. I think I may have stopped breathing a bit. I was trying to concentrate on that, but I've noticed that to concentrate on breathing it works better if I close my eyes, and I couldn't really do that.
The experience overall was quite weird. There is really no describing it, it's one of those things no one will understand unless they have it done. Basically, he peeled back my lids and did the business. I had to stare at this blinking green light and there was the buzz of the laser, me holding my breath, the nurse in the back saying 25% done, 50% done, 75% done, Kristie your left eye is complete. Then basically the same thing for the right, except it hurt a lot more. I can't tell you WHAT was different exactly, but it totally was and it was ouchy. I would have cried if I could. And then it was done, too. I couldn't really see that well out of the left eye at first, but I could see out of my right eye (and that was the BAD one).
Then they tape these plastic things over your eyes and you are done. Presto-magic-like. I have to wear the plastic to bed (not totally comfortable), but it's to ensure the flap doesn't move on the left eye and on the right I have a "contact bandage" to heal. I'll probably have the contact removed when I go back on Tuesday for my checkup. I have one tomorrow morning as well.
I took the pre-surgery valium, so the drive home I was getting fairly drowsy. Plus the LIGHT... OMG the light... killing me.
So I got home, got in bed and tried to sleep. I dozed a bit, not as long as I would have liked and when I woke up, I put the sunglasses back on and tried to put eye drops in. It was ridiculous. I actually went into my bedroom closet and closed the door. It was pitch black in there and I could finally open my eyes without pain. So I put one of the numbing drops in and it started to feel better. Sunglasses back on and back to bed. I just sat against the pillows with my eyes closed. It wasn't until my 2nd nap, that I feel so much better. There is still a twinge of pain in the right eye, but the left feels pretty good. And the light isn't bothersome anymore.
Now for the bad news... as the right eye heals, my vision will actually probably get cloudy and blurry over the next few days. BOO! But then... it will all be better.
And the good... I CAN SEE!!! Unaided with glasses, contacts, etc... it's definitely freeing and amazing and I'm so happy, even over the pain, I'm happier to not be a slave to the ritual anymore.
I didn't get any knitting done today, obviously, but that should be back on track tomorrow.
As part of my Project 365 for 2009, I give you ME in my glasses, for what will hopefully be the last time for a very long time.
We rang in the New Year with Andyman and the Prodigals at the LC. It was a fun time. I expected a lot more people, but it was a good crowd anyway.
For dinner on the first, we had Pork and Kraut, the obligatory first meal of the new year to bring luck or something. Where this tradition started, I have no clue. But it was something we did growing up, so I carry that with me. And Brian loves sauerkraut, too. I also made a brie-something. Can't remember the name, but basically it was brie wrapped in pastry with pecans and honey. Had it a few weeks ago and it was one of the best ways I've ever had Brie. Unfortunately, my pastry shell leaked and the brie rolled out into the dish all creamy and melty and mixed with the honey. It was still good though.
Today, was my appointment for eye surgery. I had lasek done in my left eye. And in my very bad right eye, he performed and AST/PRK surgery. I was pretty nervous while having it done. I think I may have stopped breathing a bit. I was trying to concentrate on that, but I've noticed that to concentrate on breathing it works better if I close my eyes, and I couldn't really do that.
The experience overall was quite weird. There is really no describing it, it's one of those things no one will understand unless they have it done. Basically, he peeled back my lids and did the business. I had to stare at this blinking green light and there was the buzz of the laser, me holding my breath, the nurse in the back saying 25% done, 50% done, 75% done, Kristie your left eye is complete. Then basically the same thing for the right, except it hurt a lot more. I can't tell you WHAT was different exactly, but it totally was and it was ouchy. I would have cried if I could. And then it was done, too. I couldn't really see that well out of the left eye at first, but I could see out of my right eye (and that was the BAD one).
Then they tape these plastic things over your eyes and you are done. Presto-magic-like. I have to wear the plastic to bed (not totally comfortable), but it's to ensure the flap doesn't move on the left eye and on the right I have a "contact bandage" to heal. I'll probably have the contact removed when I go back on Tuesday for my checkup. I have one tomorrow morning as well.
I took the pre-surgery valium, so the drive home I was getting fairly drowsy. Plus the LIGHT... OMG the light... killing me.
So I got home, got in bed and tried to sleep. I dozed a bit, not as long as I would have liked and when I woke up, I put the sunglasses back on and tried to put eye drops in. It was ridiculous. I actually went into my bedroom closet and closed the door. It was pitch black in there and I could finally open my eyes without pain. So I put one of the numbing drops in and it started to feel better. Sunglasses back on and back to bed. I just sat against the pillows with my eyes closed. It wasn't until my 2nd nap, that I feel so much better. There is still a twinge of pain in the right eye, but the left feels pretty good. And the light isn't bothersome anymore.
Now for the bad news... as the right eye heals, my vision will actually probably get cloudy and blurry over the next few days. BOO! But then... it will all be better.
And the good... I CAN SEE!!! Unaided with glasses, contacts, etc... it's definitely freeing and amazing and I'm so happy, even over the pain, I'm happier to not be a slave to the ritual anymore.
I didn't get any knitting done today, obviously, but that should be back on track tomorrow.
As part of my Project 365 for 2009, I give you ME in my glasses, for what will hopefully be the last time for a very long time.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Knitting: The new year with EZ?
So I've been meaning to post this for a few days, but let's face it, I've been lazy. Well not so much lazy and just not feeling like being online. I spent the last few of my days off knitting away. Well except Sunday. Was feeling allergies quite a bit, so I medicated and dozed on the couch most of the day. Am better now, thank grace. After the month long 2008 Yuck (nov-dec), I was REALLY done with being sick.
Moving on... I've made mention of knitting along with Elizabeth Zimmerman in 2009. I've toyed with starting the Almanac. I'd really love a big crazy Aran sweater which is the January project. I have 2 summer babies coming along one in June and one in July(they're still baking in their respective ovens right now), so I'd love to do the February baby stuff as well... after that it was like a "we'll see" sort of thing. Over this past weekend, I did a lot of reading, Knitting w/out Tears, Knitter's Workshop, Knitting Around and the Almanac... and what I realized is this... I don't really want to MAKE these patterns. I mean reading about her techniquie and why she did things the way she did was really great. I've picked up many useful tips and things to try... but as for the patterns, I'm not SUPER crazy about any of them. I mean they are all "okay" but I feel like I'm at a point that I can pretty much create what I want in the sizing I want.
Now let me step back for a second. I feel like I can do this for my size specifically. And I'm thinking of making baby stuff... well here is where I might be a little stuck, ya see, cause I don't have a baby of my own and I don't have baby measurements, so creating baby garments might not be quite my forte just yet.... but that's ok. Good pal Julane is walking through 2009 with Barbara Walker and all her genius. And she'll be trying to take what she can through BW's top down techniques, etc.
I think what I really want to learn in 2009 is some of the different cast on methods, Tubular, etc. I'm also interested in the Portuguese style of knitting, not that I'd like it, but I am curious. As I said previous, I want 2009 to be one of my FINISHING years. We all know I have a lot to finish! I still need to make up my schedule. I think if I get my projects and their respective yarns together and get them in a calendar book, that MAYBE I can get it done.
I also need to make a list of WANTS. What I WANT to make, for myself and for others. Then I can schedule those as appropriate as well. Here is where my major project detours come in... new issues of magazines or knitty come out and I see all sorts of new stuff! And then I have a whole new list of wants to make.
And for is phenomenal as ravelry is... sometimes an old fashion notebook or journal is better. it's tangible and real and if I physically write it out, I feel a better "stick-to-it-iveness."
I have another long weekend coming up... so that will be my plan. Also look forward to my 365-Photo-A-Day. Hopefully Lindsey and I can keep each other on pace to get the whole year done up right!
I'm excited for 2009. 2008 was a pretty darn good year, it had it's frustrations but overall it turned out ok. I look forward to 2009 being good, too. At least I hope for that. I'll take the downs as part of life as long as there is always and upside... and let's face... we'll always have knitting!
Moving on... I've made mention of knitting along with Elizabeth Zimmerman in 2009. I've toyed with starting the Almanac. I'd really love a big crazy Aran sweater which is the January project. I have 2 summer babies coming along one in June and one in July(they're still baking in their respective ovens right now), so I'd love to do the February baby stuff as well... after that it was like a "we'll see" sort of thing. Over this past weekend, I did a lot of reading, Knitting w/out Tears, Knitter's Workshop, Knitting Around and the Almanac... and what I realized is this... I don't really want to MAKE these patterns. I mean reading about her techniquie and why she did things the way she did was really great. I've picked up many useful tips and things to try... but as for the patterns, I'm not SUPER crazy about any of them. I mean they are all "okay" but I feel like I'm at a point that I can pretty much create what I want in the sizing I want.
Now let me step back for a second. I feel like I can do this for my size specifically. And I'm thinking of making baby stuff... well here is where I might be a little stuck, ya see, cause I don't have a baby of my own and I don't have baby measurements, so creating baby garments might not be quite my forte just yet.... but that's ok. Good pal Julane is walking through 2009 with Barbara Walker and all her genius. And she'll be trying to take what she can through BW's top down techniques, etc.
I think what I really want to learn in 2009 is some of the different cast on methods, Tubular, etc. I'm also interested in the Portuguese style of knitting, not that I'd like it, but I am curious. As I said previous, I want 2009 to be one of my FINISHING years. We all know I have a lot to finish! I still need to make up my schedule. I think if I get my projects and their respective yarns together and get them in a calendar book, that MAYBE I can get it done.
I also need to make a list of WANTS. What I WANT to make, for myself and for others. Then I can schedule those as appropriate as well. Here is where my major project detours come in... new issues of magazines or knitty come out and I see all sorts of new stuff! And then I have a whole new list of wants to make.
And for is phenomenal as ravelry is... sometimes an old fashion notebook or journal is better. it's tangible and real and if I physically write it out, I feel a better "stick-to-it-iveness."
I have another long weekend coming up... so that will be my plan. Also look forward to my 365-Photo-A-Day. Hopefully Lindsey and I can keep each other on pace to get the whole year done up right!
I'm excited for 2009. 2008 was a pretty darn good year, it had it's frustrations but overall it turned out ok. I look forward to 2009 being good, too. At least I hope for that. I'll take the downs as part of life as long as there is always and upside... and let's face... we'll always have knitting!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Knitting amongst friends
So, I am often amazed at the people I know. Take the folks I knit with usually on a weekly basis. They are just all so unique and intersting and funny and I have some of the best times with them. We knitters are good people.
I guess when I first started going to different knitting groups or even just OUT KNITTING IN PUBLIC, I was hesitant that I would "fit-in." I think some of my childhood shyness creeps in every once in awhile. But I went out into the knitting world and now there are people that I really enjoy being around and have a great time with. And yes we KNIT when together, but these are people I could see just hanging out with or catching a movie with or whatever. Anyway, I'm thankful for these friends, these knitters.
And often times, after we depart or later after the group disbands for the evening, I still laugh at what happened while there. I think of all those funny things so and so said, or that story about, whatever and I find myself laughing. We don't need alcohol to laugh and act silly... just some yarn and sticks and we are happy chicks. :)
Laughing and knitting, it's what makes my world go 'round.
I find myself less stressed, I'm in a good mood and overall I feel really content with life right now. Many times in the last however many years, life was a roller coaster. If work was great, then home wasn't, or if home was good, work wasn't. But now... things are mostly even most of the time. I kind of like it.
So, work is good
Home is good
Knitting is good
I'm looking forward to a couple of knitting weekends coming along in the new year. I have one scheduled in January with some pals. Then in February, Audra and I meet up in Pittsburgh with my sister and we go to Camp Kwonokee (???) for a retreat. I will hopefully get a LOT of knitting done. If I can keep my mouth shut. I find if I start talking... I don't get much knitting done. I don't know why I can't do both at the same time, but let's just say I'm challenged.
So knitting and knitting with friends and in groups, it's good stuff.
And I'm already thinking ahead to the new year and resolutions. I've made mention of this to a couple of people, so please hold me accountable.
For 2009, I resolve to FINISH MORE PROJECTS and start less stuff until I do finish! Now this means I will still START new things in 2009, but I do plan to finish everything I started in 2008 also. It's 30-ish projects (I think). Hopefully, by the end of 2009, my Ravelry projects will have more completed projects instead of all WIPS. We can hope, right?
I also plan to get started on gift knitting WAY before it's due.
I guess when I first started going to different knitting groups or even just OUT KNITTING IN PUBLIC, I was hesitant that I would "fit-in." I think some of my childhood shyness creeps in every once in awhile. But I went out into the knitting world and now there are people that I really enjoy being around and have a great time with. And yes we KNIT when together, but these are people I could see just hanging out with or catching a movie with or whatever. Anyway, I'm thankful for these friends, these knitters.
And often times, after we depart or later after the group disbands for the evening, I still laugh at what happened while there. I think of all those funny things so and so said, or that story about, whatever and I find myself laughing. We don't need alcohol to laugh and act silly... just some yarn and sticks and we are happy chicks. :)
Laughing and knitting, it's what makes my world go 'round.
I find myself less stressed, I'm in a good mood and overall I feel really content with life right now. Many times in the last however many years, life was a roller coaster. If work was great, then home wasn't, or if home was good, work wasn't. But now... things are mostly even most of the time. I kind of like it.
So, work is good
Home is good
Knitting is good
I'm looking forward to a couple of knitting weekends coming along in the new year. I have one scheduled in January with some pals. Then in February, Audra and I meet up in Pittsburgh with my sister and we go to Camp Kwonokee (???) for a retreat. I will hopefully get a LOT of knitting done. If I can keep my mouth shut. I find if I start talking... I don't get much knitting done. I don't know why I can't do both at the same time, but let's just say I'm challenged.
So knitting and knitting with friends and in groups, it's good stuff.
And I'm already thinking ahead to the new year and resolutions. I've made mention of this to a couple of people, so please hold me accountable.
For 2009, I resolve to FINISH MORE PROJECTS and start less stuff until I do finish! Now this means I will still START new things in 2009, but I do plan to finish everything I started in 2008 also. It's 30-ish projects (I think). Hopefully, by the end of 2009, my Ravelry projects will have more completed projects instead of all WIPS. We can hope, right?
I also plan to get started on gift knitting WAY before it's due.
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