I came, I saw…

…and it wasn’t that bad. Here’s the latest list of movies I’ve either seen in the theatre, was sick through, knit through, or relieved my boredom (our shipment didn’t arrive until over a week after we moved here) There were plenty more but I’ve decided to only list maybe five-ish a week and include a featured presentation because it’s my blog and I can. We’ll see how it goes.

1. John Tucker Must Die- Very Mean Girls-esque. Cleverly done like Mean Girls. These type of movies have been a dime a dozen –they’ve came and went and didn’t go as well. Still it is the typical teen movie. It goes a lil sumtin’ like this…“Let me make a dare to like/change/embarrass you etc., oh BUT WAIT! I actually really like you now that I know you, OH No! let me confess it all at the big dance at the end of the movie”. Exactly like that.
2. 40 Year Old Virgin- I didn’t go to see this in the theatre with everyone because I didn’t want to waste my money and I never looked back on that decision. Now the other day this happened to be on cable and it was freaking hilarious…I had a bunch of laugh out loud moments. There were several funny (and inappropriate) sketches in the movie but by far the most hilarious and uncomfortable ones to me were with Andy’s (Steve Carrell) female boss. She was all about “subtly” offering to take his virginity. Nevertheless, overall I thought the ending was sweet and being that Matty and I waited until marriage to "consummate" things, I respected it being put in print even if it was for comedic purposes.
3. Bamboozled- So good. Poked right into the stereotypes blacks (and collectively-all races, as a society) endorse (and have endorsed in the past) in the entertainment industry in order to get paid. Actually, in order to work period. There was a lot of actual footage from old movies, actual toys and figurines depicting pickaninnies and such. It's so crazy to wrapped my mind around that time frame when these images were acceptable and the norm. Funny enought, some of the content reminded me of what Hollywood Shuffle tried to bring light and humor in the eighties (I love that movie too) The pickaninnies particularly hit home with me in relation to a conversation I had with my in-laws last year. Anyway, it’s a fantastic thought provoking movie. It’s directed by Spike Lee and has Savion Glover in it. White and black people all over the world should watch and try to understand. It’s more of a film than just a movie.
4. House of Sand and Fog- I loved this film. Aside from it being beautiful to the eye the acting is great. The story is great. Now here is a warning: This movie is a tragic story but a unique one. I also felt it had civil lessons to take away with also some very cultural ones as well. Out of all five I would recommend this one as number one. Did Jennifer Connelly win something for this movie? She should have. She carries it off perfect. I’m also convinced that every frame in this movie could be a still picture that you could capture and put on your wall somewhere. So interesting. Also, if you rent it know it’s not a funny or action type movie and that it is for more mature audiences. It’s drama, so if you rent it and don’t like that kinda thing don’t come back over here harassing me, I warned ya.
5. The Producers- Had a few clever/funny parts. Had many set similarities and looks close to those in Chicago (I loved Chicago). The musical numbers were amusing for the most part. Still, this film movie musical was not my cup of tea-- although the depiction of “Hitler in Springtime” was unbelievable. I just sat there laughing out big “WOW’s” with each passing swastika. When Hitler finally popped up I did find it pretty amusing.

Surprise, I’m a little late

Almost forgot, I went to the bookstore upon arriving here at the beginning of January. I had a gift certificate from Christmas and I picked up a couple of things. Of course I’m late posting them and now I need to pick up the new IK and the new Knit.1 because they are both packed full of things I like. I was peeping the new IK online the other day. There's some really cute stuff in there! Never mind all that.
Vogue Knitting has this really cool cabled Bolero that I would love to knit- that I will knit come hell or high water.
Knit.1 was just cute; nothing I just had to put on the list.
I really liked the style of the writing in Domiknitrix. It’s by Jennifer Stafford. Her book reminds me of Stitch n' Bitch. It's more straightforward and direct. (I found out she has a blog too-apparently I was the last to know)There are a couple of patterns in there that could come to fruition…but probably not.
There's just way too many things on the knitting wishlist these days and the only thing out of this bunch that made it on was the cabled modular bolero thingy from Vogue.
I. Want. That.Now

Banana Margarita's anyone?

Matty had been out in the field since last Monday until this Saturday afternoon. So yesterday, I organized and participated (with some of the other wives) in providing the first hot meal the guys had had in 6 days. We ended up doing hot dogs and all the stuff that goes along with them. We served the whole B Company (4 platoons) which was roughly about 150 guys. It was fun and I forgot to take pictures.
Nevertheless, afterward Mateo came home and took a LONG shower (he wreaked) and we went out to eat together. We were both starving and ordered tons of food. I even had a banana margarita- a flavor I had never tried before (I usually get mango). It was all so delicious. We went to La Azteca restaurant in Columbus, Georgia. It’s right off exit 10 on Interstate 185. I had a chicken and cheese quesadilla, a taco, a chile relleno, and refried beans- so much for eating clean that day!
The cheese dip and quesadilla wasn’t as good as El Charro’s back home but it was still pretty good. The chile relleno and taco was much better however. The price was definitely right too! If you’re ever in the area I say check it out. It was an above average margarita too!

Pick up...

…where we left off shall we. Surprisingly I got the entreloc Danica scarf done. I was DREADING weaving in those ends ya’ll. It only took a couple of hours of Tivo’d American Idol to get them all woven in. I used a crochet hook!
I even blocked it!







And off it went….





I used 3 skeins Lion Cashmere (1 ½ blk, 1 ½ grey) and some scrap Debbie Bliss cashmerino on size 8 Susan Bates needles- aluminum straights.
I felt like a knitting superstar making this. It looks difficult but it wasn’t. Aside from Matty this is one of my first knitted gifts. I hope the recipient really likes it. I’d hate for it to be one of those things people sit out or dig up simply because you’re coming to visit…

Like a fine wine

I went to a wine tasting tonight with two of the other Army wives; Misty and Brittany. They are both around my age. I had a really good time. I think we are all going to get together Wednesday of next week and hang out. I may have made two friends.
I tried 6 different wines tonight:
1. Quail Ridge Chardonnay
2. Quail Ridge Merlot
3. Quail Ridge Cabernet
4. Santelmo Malbec
5. Monkey Bay Sauvignon Blanc
6. Columbia Cellar Masters Riesling***
I am trying to "develop" my taste for wine and meet some folks down here. I think I accomplished both. I've come to believe that I prefer white wines over reds but these are the only 6 wines I've tried so don't take that as gospel. I'm going to another one on the 15th of Feb.
If I absolutely had to pick a red out of the bunch it would be the Cabernet. It had a good smoky aftertaste. I was impressed with myself that I could tell that. I even swirled the wine around the glass like I was some kind of professional who knew what they were looking for. I will probably buy the Cabernet for now just to cook with if it is not expensive.
Out of the white wines the Monkey Bay Sauvignon Blanc was deliscious but I loved this wine the most...

Digging the Dixie

I'm back and in a new location. After the holidays, hubby and I moved to Columbus Georgia from Northern VA (DC area). I miss my old life and all my friends and family but there are many things to love about the south. The change of pace for one. I like our new home (apartment) even though we don't own it and I like the area. There is so much to do around here. I am just exploring and making a home for us again.
I have got the house mainly in order now and that is a good thing. I can be normal again. The move and everything else took a lot longer and was more work than I expected it to be....i didn't expect to be so home sick either. :-(

Scaring myself

32. The Guardian- Liked this movie, it didn't get great reviews but again just another reason not to listen to those folks. It was a great story and it was eye opening to the job of Coast Guard rescue divers- a lot of respect. A lot. Did I mention Kevin Costner was in it? Yeah, Kevin Costner. He's in it :-).
33. Flags of Our Fathers- Another well done movie by Clint. I liked the way he told the story and how depicted the characters. It's not you're typical "war" movie. I liked it. It's long and is a tad slow in development.
34. The Lost City- Loved this movie. It told the story of communism in Cuba, it was beautifully done, the characters are awesome, there's real footage included, the music is amazing (as a matter of fact the story is almost completely told thru the music) and I loved the depiction of the culture. My best friends mother is from Cuba and a lot of things she mentioned actually clicked for me while watching the movie.
35. Three Times- I don't know where I was when I read about this movie. It's foreign. I thought the concept of telling the same love story in three different time periods was a neat idea. The movie was kinda slow but I held on eager to see what would unfold. I had to get use to the style. It's shot very....minimally. The camera's don't move much. In a lot of the movie the camera is set on one part of the room and that's all you see; the characters move in and out of that room but all you see is what happens to be going on in that one spot. Something else that struck me was how lovely Qi Shu is. She's the chick from the first Transporter. I liked the movie enough; I still liked, and I liked the characters. I would not watch it again though. Once is enough.
36. Deep End of the Ocean- Apparently I had seen this before and didn't realize until seeing certain parts of the movie. I really like Michele Pfieffer, she doesn't do many movies anymore. This was a good storyline; it might have been good enough for it's time but after watching it the other day I really felt like more should have been done. I felt like they depicted the emptiness in the relationships but didn't build enough on each characters position. Had just a little something missing. Nevertheless the movie was still suitable.
37. Casino Royale- My o My. I will say that this was the best Bond film made in recent day. Daniel Craig did what should have been done with the coming of each new casting of the Bond roll. He made it his own. There was plenty of action, subtle humor, flair, and skin. Funny enough Bond himself was the "skin" attraction not the Bond girl as it so usually goes (Halle Berry anyone?)
Also, nobody told me he would be naked. Have I not warned you folks that my husband has been away? Thank you Sony...

I truly do love the eighties

Ultimate '80's Rock quiz Your Result: YOU ROCK!! you definately know your '80's rock! Eddie Van Halen would be proud. Go out, buy your first real six-string and play it 'till your fingers bleed. if that's not your thing then go put on a good rock tune and play air guitar until someone makes fun of you, at that point tell them to go screw themselves and get ready for the guitar solo!!!
YOU SUCK!!!
Ultimate '80's Rock quiz Create Your Own Quiz

How could I forget?

1. Running Scared- Another Paul Walker movie. This one was not very family friendly at all. It was violent and the characters were all kinda weird. Actually the characters were all kind of video game esque. The movie reminded me of Grand Theft Auto or something. It was a cross between that video game and Sin City the movie. That's what it reminded me of. It was rough and harsh but I actually liked it.
2. Casablanca- This movie is still good. I didn't realize how much I never picked up on when I was younger. There really is a lot going on in this movie and I just love that era of movie making anyway. Thoroughly enjoyed watching this movie again. The gun scenes were actually hilarious to watch this time around for some reason. i guess because to compare it to movies nowadays it was so...awkward, even the actors seem uncomfortable holding/using the guns-it was a big deal to have a gun pulled on you. Movies now it's almost like, "where are the guns?" Anyway, ya'll should rent an old classic...it will feel so good to watch it.
3. Before They Were Kings- Before they were kings some of these guys were boring. Take DAve Chappelle for instance...he seems reallyuncomfortable in front of the audience- Keenan Ivory Wayans was a yawn too surprisingly. I think a lot of it had to do with the type of audience too. The audience was pretty dry, it seemed like a lot of the comics were holding back or uncomfortable.
4. The Departed- I saw this movie in the theater. I have to agree with my buddy miah when he says he's "all about the Boston accent." The cast was a pretty stellar list of males. It's one of those movies that you have to watch a couple times to pick up everything from all the characters or at least I feel it is. It's like 12 Monkeys or Oceans 11 or The Thomas Crown Affair- you get it but you want to see it again to see how it's done...with eyes wide open because it's just so clever or shocking.

Enough Already

1. The Island- Not as bad as I had previously believed it would be. Alright plot and clever twist in the typical storyline. It's not a waste but it's not a must- see if ya know what I mean. Anyway, this was pretty much my first time taking a look at Scarlett Johanson. I usually don't buy into the whole blonde hair, blue eyes=beauty thing but that girl is lovely. Her voice is surprising gruff in this movie...wasn't expecting that. Will see her in other things soon to form an opinion.
2. Shopgirl- This was an unexpected story. It was somewhat slow and it was weird seeing Steve Martin be a love interest and....starring in a movie with such mature content. It was totally different from anything I'd seen him in prior. Oh, it just hit me why this movie is so weird. Me and a girlfriend rented Pink Panther. I couldn't even sit thru half of it. It was horrendous. Huge contrast in movies.
3. The Prizewinner of Defiance Ohio-
This movie....hmmm. It was so clever and there were several things that I could pick out of it that I thought were interesting. I liked the way they tied the jingles in, showing how maybe they were developed from the Ryan family history. I thought the depiction of "don't cry over spilled milk" was stellar. I don't know, this movie did something for me but did nothing for me...I know confusing. I guess I just get irritated with movies where the characters are so clever yet so dumb without proper explanation. I need to understand why the character makes silly choices despite how smart they're suppose to be. I don't know....check it out for yourselves
4. Proof - Once I saw this movie and decided that I liked it I thought I had to see A Beautiful Mind because in my mind (since I hadn't seen it) maybe this was the same movie. I was wrong. Two totally different movies. Both good. This one's quirky and I found myself irritated a lot. For someone so smart these people sure put up and allow a lot of stupid crap. Her sister would have started the movie out with a good slap in the face...silly writers.
5. The Pink Panther- Don't do it even if you think you can.
6. Polyanna- My boss is always referring to me as Pollyanna and told me I should rent the old original if I really wanted to see why. It had the chick from the Parent Trap (Hayley Mills) in it. I was excited once I found that out. What a splendid little movie. I actually really enjoyed it and it broke my heart when Pollyanna tried to climb back into her window....and to my boss; it never hurts to be grateful, thank you very much.
7. Friends with Money- Slow, long, drawn out. I was continuously waiting for something in all of the characters to develop....the development was dumb, the ending was dumb. Of course me being me could pick out some elements I enjoyed about it. There was a little humor and irony but when it was over I felt like I wasted my time. Why Jennifer? Why?

I don't know, it feels like I'm forgetting a couple. I'll have to go back through the receipts

More movies

1. Annapolis- I didn't find this believable enough and too many things reminded me of "An officer and a gentlemen." However, it was entertaining enough for me to keep watching. Also James and Tyrese are in really good shape. Tyrese, tyrese, Tyrese. I was glad to see it. :-0
2. Layer Cake- I was glad to see this too. (Can u tell my husband's been away too long- my hormones are out of control!) Nevertheless, I liked the movie (Layercake). The final outcome was pretty much what I expected but it sure was exciting getting there. If you don't like violence u won't like this btw. I can't wait to see the New 007 in Casino Royale . Think I'm going sometime this week or this weekend.
3. In Her Shoes- I liked this. It was a clever storyline and the characters carried it off. Toni Collette's face is a tricky one. Sometimes she looks like the extreme ugly duckling and then all of the sudden you wonder, "Is she actually attractive?" Tricky Tricky. Her teeth pretty much made me cringe the whole movie. It was good though, look past it- see the beauty within....
4. Some Like It Hot- I've been wanting to see this movie for a while. I really liked it. Dude, Marilyn Monroe was totally making out HARDCORE withTony Curtis on the boat. I had never seen a movie from that time period were the folks are just making out like that. Pretty much it was always the scrunched up face kisses and then the characters would retreat to different bedrooms in a respectable way. It was pretty amusing too. Tony and Jack dress up like chicks to hide from the mob. Sounds like the theme of a lot of modern day movies. It had a lot of good humor. I liked the closing line on the boat. "Nobody's perfect" Wow.
5. Chocolat- Good movie. Pretty entertaining, wish there were more Johnny it. Anybody notice the hot chocolate in this movie? It is like literal melted chocolate. Just think melted Godiva. Some of you chocoholics might just like the movie for the confectioners porn.
6. Captain Corelli's Mandolin- I liked the movie, I liked the love story, I liked relationship between the penelope and her father, there was just so much to like. I liked this movie. Knitpickings I did not like: I realize that for character and time period sake it made sense but Penelope sure does have a lot of underarm hair in the love scene. It just kind of jump up there and shocked me. BOO! lol
Oh, and Nicky Cage has a pretty horrible Italian accent then again anybody remember the horrible southern accent he had in ConAir? Boy o boy.
7. Finding Neverland - Did I mention that I love Johnny? I was terrified that the relationship was going to go wrong the whole time. This turned out to be a really sweet, great story. Thumbs up :-)
8. The Breakup- This didn't get good reviews either, people didn't like the ending. I thought the ending was fine. For some reason when the movie was out I caught one of those Thumbs up/Thumbs down type shows and they were going on and on about how obnoxious Vince was, that the story was ridiculous, etc etc etc. I personally found the movie entertaining. In the beginning scene I couldn't help but laugh out loud at the singing brother. There was some laugh out loud humor and some funny entertainment but then they brought it around to the seriousness and drama of things. I thought it was well done. It was a Jennifer Aniston movie that I didn't go away with the "well, ok, alright" feeling...
9. Casanova- I think Heath Ledger is a really good in this genre/time period of film. A lot of his stuff is Shakespherian or medival with a modern day twist. Suits him well. This movie was so clever and had those little humorous punches. I'm not mad at you Heath.
10. A Beautiful Mind- Oh how I wanted everyone else to be proven wrong in this movie. I just wouldn't liet myself believe it for like the whole first half. This was an interesting movie. What a story. Jennifer Connelly looked great in this movie. I found myself thinking what does she even see in this guy in the first place...maybe she's a spy. Too much ALIAS for me!

Movie Time

1. New World- It didn't rate well, but I liked it. There wasn't much dialog but I like it that way. The characters relate their affection for each other through touch and looks. It was kinda sexy...I'm just saying. What I didn't like was the orchestra selection (score) in the beginning & end. It sounds like a horrendous bunch of jumbled mess- especially on surround sound.
2. Take the Lead - Anyone seen Dangerous Minds, Stand and Deliver, Save the Last Dance, or any of those other dancing + rough side of tracks meets a more distinguished world type feel good movies?
3. Aquamarine- I was curious. It was a mistake
4. Click- Funny. Very predictable. The minute they showed him lounging on the bed in the beginning I started quoting BiggySmalls "It was all a dream..."
5. 8 Below- This movie is a yes for a couple of reasons...Paul Walker is hot. Might not be much of an actor but I can sure look at him. Puppies (actually dogs but they are beautiful and smart). Disney. If you rent this for your family it's a Bambi tear jerker dude. Boy those shorts are dangerously low...btw-neither of these pictures have anything to do with the movie. 8 Below is a nice wholesome movie.
6. ATL- From the previews I thought this was going to be Boyz n' da Hood, Jason's Lyric, ghetto love story rise above the odds material but it was actually a lot softer than that. The acting was ok- TI was actully alright, everyone else seemed to be really mediocre. Of course there is some rough neck in it but think more along the lines of "the Wood" or "Barbershop" than New Jack City.
7. Rumor Has It- I liked it. I must say that I want to like Jennifer Anistons movies sooo much, because I really like her but they usually leave me kinda like "blah, ok, alright".
8. Elizabethtown- this was a cute little movie. While I liked Orlando and Kirsten together, from the very beginning i thought "Tone it down girlfriend". WAAAY too peppy and a little odd. Nevertheless, I like the storyline and depiction of the family. It's humorous and I love the progress his character makes. I like the trip too (rent the movie if you're curious), I thought it was great closure.
9. Upside of Anger - I like this movie. There is soooo much implied but never said and I actually came to like it that way by the end of the movie. I kept thinking the big climax scene would be when all of the family secrets come out. It wasn't what I expected. As an aside, I've watched quite a few Kevin Cosnor movies (I think he's a really good actor who has picked some horrendous rolls -Postman or Waterworld anyone) and as a 1)young and 2) black female I have to say that there is just something appealing about good ol Kevin. I think he's sexy- he's not even that handsome but he's got the something about him factor. It's probably another reason why I liked Rumor Has It. He's in that one too. He's in a great scene with Joan Allen in the bedroom later in the movie. She locks herself in the bathroom....the delivery is priceless.
10. Prime- I liked this one too. The acting in this movie is well done. It's an interesting story; I was disappointed in the ending but it was still good. Bryan Greenberg does a good job in capturing the responsible but youthful/naive/inexperienced thing that a lot of us have going on when your the young-somewhat mature type and trying to come into your own. I've decided that I really like Uma too. Uma and Bryan- Uma and Meryl all have really good chemistry too.

Family Ties

My Thanksgiving was wonderful. I went to New Jersey to see my family. Most of my uncles and my grandmother live up there. I spent half my childhood there in BrownsMills. It's a tiny little town and everybody really does know everybody. Everyone has been living there for generations and even though it's kinda old and raggety sometimes, it's always home. I hadn't been there in ages yet I still felt that comforting feeling when we rode into the city. My heart swelled up. All those memories just flood you as you ride thru town. Hardly anything ever changes and if it does theres some town story that goes along with it. :-)
This is a picture of my brothers and sister. It would have been cool if our other sister was there too. Nevertheless, this was the crew and we sure did have a good time. Do notice the handknit socks my sister has on. You know she had to tell EVERYONE she knit them herself...:-) She's too cute....
(Left to right: Philip, me, Janet-aka Black Purl, Baby Glynn)
PS- I got some knitting done...I'll show you later.

The Cookies are gone

When I got home several weeks ago. There was a package hanging out in the cold by it’s lonesome. When I opened it I found amazing gifts from my teaswap partner!
She sent me soap, homemade chocolate chip cookies, chamomile tea balls and a gorgeous hank of sock yarn.

Look at these colors. It’s 330yds of superwash merino wool

I love teal/ turquoise blue. LOVE it. These pics just are not capturing it's essence and it's such a shame.
In fact here are some of my favorite items to show you how dead on my teaswapper was. (This was literally a few quick snaps around the house. Lets not get into jewelry and accessories, skirts, socks etc etc etc. I love these colors.


THANK YOU SO MUCH. I am sorry it has taken me half a year to say so nevertheless, from the heart THANK U.
I have absolutely nothing left to show for the cookies at this point
My hubby took them with him Ft. Benning Georgia when he visited. We loved them and so did several of the guys in the barracks. They were sooo freakin’ delicious even after having sat outside for a couple of days!

Back on post.

Boy have I not been good lately. Between the being sick and being out of town or having someone in town and trying to catch up from all of that my blog, life, emails, phone calls, work, laundry, knitting, myspace, bloglines, house have all been severely neglected. It's a wonder I put up the two measily post I did manage.
Nevertheless, I'm back now. I'm still answering zillions of emails, etc and trying to catch up on my bloglines. I am really touched that some of you guys reached out to me to make sure I was ok or just tell me you missed me. That meant alot. Thank you so much.
I have plenty to catch you all up on but I can tell u up front that I haven't gotten much knitting done at all. It's really quite terrifying. I guess in the end the word is that not everyone is getting a knitted gift for Christmas. :-(
I still need to finish the Danica scarf. Once I do that then I'll feel good to move on with life.
Tomorrow, I'll show you what was waiting for me on my door after the first time I went out of town to see my Mateo.

Feeling Blue and Purple

Dear Celie,
I'm sure Mr. is the only one who still checks the mailbox but in case it's you. I am not dead.
Luv
Nettie

QuickPost

1. Still Alive
2. Hardly no knitting; not good for Christmas gifts recipients
3. Going to see my Matty Thursday
4. What is going on with Sarah Evans on dancing w/ the stars?
5. Sent sockret pal and tea swap packages out.
6. Contacted my SP9
7. Still getting fit; not going to be lean enough for Nov. 18th :-(
8. Still have Colorswap pic to put up- I did finally receive my package and I finally sent my package!
9. Itching to buy more yarn now that I've destashed-what was the point in that?
10. Thinking since the Christmas knitting is looking bleek I might as well start knitting for myself again. I've got lots of things I really like.......

Another Secret Pal Questionaire

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love Noro Kureyon yarn; the colors are amazing. I like Noro yarn in general actually; silk garden is nice. I like Lamb's pride, I've been wanting to knit with Rowan calmer for a really long time... I like it all except for maybe novelty yarn.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I have denise’s, and then all my short straights I store in a Bubba Gump Shrimp company glass. I store my long straights in an Ikea candy jar, my circs I keep in the packages and throw in my upstairs knitting basket or this gawdy ceramic shoe, ( yes, you read that correctly..ceramic shoe; it's actually a bootie) it’s from my grandmother. No laughing….

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I’ve been knitting for two years. I taught myself from books like stitch n bitch, and a knitting dvd. I’d say I’m intermediate.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I do not have a wishlist.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)
I love COCONUT. Tropical and fruity stuff too.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I do have a sweet tooth though I’ve been dieting for FOREVER. I love banana laffy taffy and banana runts, I like watermelon bubblegum. I like skittles, I like twizzlers, I like reese’s pieces, I like chocolate but not a huge fan of dark. I like the fattening creamy stuff. I LOVE nuts.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I also crochet and have started to daddle in sewing and a little drop spindling.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I love music. I am very versatile. I listen to a lot of upbeat fun pop and rap and rock and alternative when I work out but I actually really like jazz and the blues. Sade is one of my favorites. I know way more country than any black girl should know working in construction and being married to a partial ‘neck. I have to admit I really like a lot of it and had a hankering for Reba, Martina, Dolly, Kenny R, etc etc. before any of these other factors came about. (I was born in Texas folks, raised a good part in the south.) My sister was a classical music major in college and my sister and brother both played in orchestra in high school. They both had sqwuillz and I really developed a taste for classical and opera. I like it all folks. My ipod is jammed packed. I’m addicted to music.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love color period. I look smashing in jewel tones and I’m not afraid to say it. I can work a pastel purple too. I don’t get washed out actually, I can work most colors and I do so surprise me…just don’t shock me with flourescent neon acid. The eighties are back but I don’t know if I have enough diva to work that trend.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married to a wonderful man. This is going on our fourth year. I’ve actually known him since I was 16 years old. He’s my soulmate. We don’t have any children yet. We gave away our dog to his parents:-)….

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I wear scarves and hats no doubt; it’s going to have to be a cool pair of mittens or a fierce poncho to get me in it.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I like it all. I really want be a sweater knitter but you would swear all I know how to knit are scarves, mary janes, and dishcloths around here.


13. What are you knitting right now?
Scarves, mary janes, and dishcloths.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Absolutely!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I like either depending on what I’m working on. I dig bamboo. My sister turned me on to those pony pearl do jobbies. I've got aluminum and I am not ashamed, I like it for some stuff actually.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, I do.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Ummm, I couldn’t even tell you. Pretty old!

18. What is your favorite holiday?
Christmas.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
I love paper and stationary. I love candles I don’t know if it would be considered a collection but…
Oddly, I really like things with my initials or name on them. A lot of times it's really hard to find.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I subscribe to Vogue Knitting. I’ve been needing to buy the “new” Rowan 40 and haven’t yet. I will eventually purchuse Rusted Root, Sizzle, Simple knitting Bodice, and green gable; not until January though. That’s when I will resume selfish knitting again.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
Magic Loop, Socks on Circs; I want to try both. Eventually some fair isle too.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
New sock knitter actually. I wear a size 9 (US) shoe. I’m not a fan of pointy toes. I like ankle socks

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
Septemeber 30th

We’re Doing Categories Today Folks

Birthday:
Thank you so much to every person who sent me emails and messages wishing me a Happy Birthday; it truly did brighten my day!
It started out very tough. Mateo and I made the mistake of laying in bed and cuddling in the morning before he left. It just made us both dwell on him leaving and be kinda sad. Note for the future is to get up and get out.
However, I ended up going shopping and out to dinner again to my favorite place with a good friend of mine. What a Godsend because I could have seen myself moping around for the whole day. On Friday night before my birthday I went out to dinner with my bro, his girlfriend, my BIL & his girlfriend, Jere (my friend) and the in-laws to Pauli Moto’s, this cute Asian Bistro; if you've ever watched Iron Chef it is owned by Chef Morimoto. It was really delicious. I had lettuce wraps and chicken breast, and veggies. :-)
Diet & Exercise:
I saw Dave today and my stats were alright. My bodyfat is down 3% which is good but I'm still a long ways away from where I need to be. Hopefully this won’t take me forever to get over emotionally. I asked Dave to be straight up with me; “At the rate my body is changing do you believe I’ll be ready for the show in 7 weeks? Should I spend the cash on ordering my suits?”
He said that a lot of change can happen in 7 weeks so don’t stress myself out.
Nevertheless, I am proud of myself. I’ve really stuck to this and committed to being hardcore in the gym. I see little changes in my body or how my clothes are fitting every week, I would even say daily.
My morning runs have been invigorating and have become a very important part of my life. I’ve found that it has become a really awesome time of prayer for me. It all started with me praying, “Lord, help me! I don’t know if I'ma make it back!” or “Lord, please protect me, you know you hear about those women being pulled into the woods all the time,” to me praying for my friends, family, my hubby, change in myself, change in my community, etc etc. It’s just such a good time. BTW, I’m taking prayer request if you have any….
Knitting :
Finally finished the freaking MIL socks! I’m happy with my first pair of hand knitted socks; let’s hope that my mother in law really appreciates and likes the gift. I mean sentimentally she will have the FIRST pair of hand knitted socks I ever made, that’s special…it’s like the macaroni necklace you keep from your kids when they’re little even though you know it’s butt ugly (well my socks r cute of course but y’all know what I mean).
I started knitting the first Neka bag. I decided I could knit the middle sized bag out of wool and felt them instead of using cotton. This is Manos Del Uruguay 100% wool. I picked this yarn out when I first started knitting when I knew absolutely nothing about yarn quality, gauge, animals, etc. I just really liked the colors and the texture- now that I know what it is I’m feeling like I might naturally have really good taste. Lol. This should be really cool right? We’ll see.
So, to sum it up here’s what’s on my needles as of today
1. Entreloc scarf
2. 2nd pair of mary janes
3. 1st Neka bag
4. 1 of 12 more dishcloths (4 sets of 3)

NOTE: MIL socks and Manos pics won't upload right now:-(

Heart Matters:
It’s so weird being in an empty house and it’s weird sleeping alone- though I must admit it feels great to sprawl out over the whole entire mattress (when I can actually sleep) and use both good pillows :-)!
We have the most awesome bed, mattresses, pillows, and comforter set. We (I) took great care in picking out the bedroom accessories and to my hubby’s benefit did a great job. We are always either racing to bed to either grab our favorites before the other can or we wrestle each other and just give each other a hard time over mattress territory. It’s just one of our silly ways I guess. I really miss him...Anyway, I’ve got it all to myself now! Unfortunately, I’d much rather still be wrestling with him for my territory; I’m even going to miss waking up in the middle of the night and snatching the covers back over to my side of the bed….let freedom ring; I know personally that we couldn’t have a better man defending our rights :-)

Sockret Pal Questionaire!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The basics:
How long have you been knitting? I’ve been knitting for almost 2 years.
Do you consider yourself a beginning sock knitter, an intermediate, or have you been doing this so long you could probably knit a pair in your sleep? I knit my first pair of socks this August, so I’m a very beginner but I’m pretty comfortable with it!

The measurements:
While your pal may ask for some additional info to ensure a great fit, please provide your shoe size, or any other fitting related info you think is pertinent.
Size 9 foot, I’m not a big fan of pointy socks or long socks. Most of my socks are ankle length
.
(fiber related) Favorites:
What colors do you love? I love all colors actually. I guess I would not prefer neon colored socks however unless the colorway was just too cool to pass up.
Do you prefer solids or variegated? I’m a big fan of variegated yarn because of the wide variety of colors and I am a color fanatic.
What fibers do you most love to knit with? Cotton, wool, superwash is amazing; merino- I’m not picky
Who do you consider your favorite yarn vendors? I like sweet Georgia yarns, I’d like to try Trekking XXL, I like lorna’s, Koigu is amazing; I haven’t tried Lion Brands magic stripes yet.
What projects (other than socks, of course*S*) do you most enjoy knitting? I like knitting tanks or sweaters in the round. I have also knit quite a few pair of mary janes in Noro yarn. I love that stuff

(fiber related) Dislikes:
What fibers can you not stand to knit with? To wear? I am not picky; haven’t discovered anything horrible yet (well, I’m not a big fan of fun fur and most novelty yarn because I don’t know what to do with it...)
What colors would you never wear? I wear everything; I don’t have the “some colors wash me out,” problem so I’m pretty adventurous the only objection I have is to like seriously acid neon colors (it’s gotta be pretty awesome for me to go there)

The Tools:
Plastic or Metal? Bamboo or wood? I knit my first pair on pony pearls dpn’s and loved it.
Circs or Straights? I knit my first pair on tiny size 1 straight pony pearls but eventually I’d like to try knitting socks on circs or using the magic loop method (No, I am not currently equipped to do so).
DPNs or Magic Loop? (see above)
Are there any knitting accessories you don't have in your collection but would like?

The Extras:
Do you have a wish list? If so, please share the link! No wish list
Do you like sweet, sour or salty? (or all of the above? *S*) I love nuts! (get ur minds out of the gutters) I mean peanuts, cashews, pistachio’s, almonds, walnuts, pecans etc. And I don’t care if they are smoked, honey roasted, salted, all natural/organic (my favorite), chocolate covered, etc. etc. I also really like runts, pixie sticks, banana laffy taffy, gum- etc etc.
Do you have any allergies your pal should know about? (Certain foods, smoke, pet hair, etc)
Favorite scents? Scents you can't stand? I love anything coconut, pina coloda, or tropical scented. No allergies that I know of.
Do you collect anything (other than yarn and knitting toys of course)?
When is your birthday? (month and day is fine!) Sept. 30th
Do you spin? Dye your own yarn? TBD :-)
Your favorite author/band/vacation spot, anything you think will help your pal know you better...
I love going to tropical places to vacation; our last vacation was to Hawaii. I’ve been to Cancun, Mexico twice, Aruba, Barbados, Martinique, St. Thomas, and Anna Maria Island-Florida. I love the sunshine and summer. I love to swim/be in the water. I love going to new places and discovering new cultures; eating new food etc.
I like almost all kinds of music. I know way too much 80’s music for someone my age. I like Mary J Blige, Aerosmith, old Guns n’ Roses, India Arie, Yellowcard, Linkin Park, Tupac, Nas, JZ, Omarion, Danity Cane, Pink, Switchfoot, Pigeon John, Fred Hammond, Crystal Lewis; I guess it’s easier for me to say who I absolutely don’t like: Eminem ( Stan was disturbing but clever), Marlyn Manson, Britney spears( I did like Toxic though).
I read a lot of poetry, I like the Harlem Renaissance era. Langston Hughes is great. Recently I’ve read books by Pearl Cleage and Judy Blume (it was different reading an adult book by Judy Blume; she was my favorite when I was a kid)
I read a lot of fitness mags and books too. I will be studying to get my personal training certification soon. Weightlifting has become a passion of mine; running ain’t so bad either!