mega(k)nits

Inspire

2011-02-07T08:51:00.003-05:00

Getting Ready for School to Start!

2011-01-27T08:43:00.004-05:00

School starts for the 2011 school year on Monday, Feb. 21st at Centro Escolar LifeLink and I'm really excited!

Over the last week that we've been back in Nicaragua, I've enjoyed catching up with our students and their families as they stop by the base. Everyone is looking forward to the beginning of the school year!

While Wayne has been busy with finishing the Primary School Building, I've been lesson planning, completing registrations and getting all the admin stuff squared away. But yesterday was the most exciting day yet!

Elisa and I got together for some brainstorming and then headed to the bookstore where we purchased our Preschool curriculum for this year! After some feedback from our teachers last year, we felt that changing our curriculum might be a good move for us, so we started researching our options in November. After seeing what the market had to offer and speaking to teachers and Directors of other private schools here in Nica and in the States, we found the perfect curriculum for us! Our students are going to benefit so greatly from this quality platform for learning!

We've also selected our First Grade curriculum and found a bookstore willing to give us an amazing deal on it!

God is blessing our planning and we know that with Him on our side, great things are on the horizon!

Quote Inspiration

2011-01-21T11:46:00.001-05:00

"The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next."

--Abraham Lincoln

Saw this on a friend's fb page and immediately loved it. Great words to kick off the 2011 school year at Centro Escolar LifeLink.

Feliz Na

2010-12-24T17:20:00.002-05:00

In praise of fancy photo cards

2010-12-10T19:02:00.004-05:00

Shutterfly has really stepped up their game this year with beautiful, new card designs to meet all your holiday needs. While browsing their new catalog, I could not help but notice the great use of color and clean design.

Classic looks and colors, right along side non-traditional color palettes with modern images. The perfect frame for your Christmas photo.

I don't know about your family, but we spend several hours each year walking around, posing, smiling, the whole nine -- and a few years we've had to go back out a second night/day to get the perfect shot! I love to have already decided on a card so that I can match our clothes and accessories.

They're also carrying the cutest, personalized gift tags! I'm not always the most matchy of persons, but I love the idea of wrapping everything in plain, jewel tone colored papers with fancy, personalized tags.

And if you're still shopping for gifts -- don't miss their photo gifts, including huge canvas prints and make-your-own calendars.

Here's some of my favorites!

Cards I love

Gifts that rock

Fun stationary items

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T20:39:00.000-05:00

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

-- Melody Beattie

stardust

2010-11-17T20:26:00.002-05:00

Sterling Silver Stardust Hoop Earrings by NauticalWheeler

Diamante Dark Gray Swarovski Pearl Earrings by DutchTouchBeads

three modern mommy necklace oxidized sterling by hazelnutcottage

stardust spheres ear posts by dadamietz

stardust discs on black chain by bunniesinla

Stardust Vintage Constellation Map Petite Earrings by sherrytruitt

supernova stud earrings by osirisjewellery

*love*

Thankfulness

2010-11-07T20:34:00.003-05:00

I know, I know, it's already Nov. 7th and it just occurred to me that it's November and Thanksgiving is on its way. Last year, I made a thankful status update on my facebook page each day in November and it was a great time to reflect and focus on the good.

I'm going to catch up here and then keep it going for the rest of November over on fb. :)

1. I'm thankful for the new, cooler breezes we're experiencing.

2. I'm thankful that my sister's baby was born happy and healthy!

3. I'm thankful for short lines at the grocery store.

4. I'm thankful for all the friends the girls have made here.

5. I'm thankful for Gonper's Libreria carrying felt, in lots of colors.

6. I'm thankful for crayola.com.

And 7 will be live in seconds on my profile. :)

Socktober Progress

2010-10-14T19:51:00.002-05:00

I started trying to get just one photo of my sock-in-action, but got a bit carried away. Almost halfway through the month . . . I hope that sock 2 is extra speedy! :)

I'm A Winner

2010-09-29T19:00:00.004-05:00

Thanks to my lovely friend Allison for awarding me:

Allison is keeping an amazing blog about her homeschool adventures with TONS of great ideas and links -- if you're homeschooling, I highly recommend it.
The rules for winning this award are as follows:
* Thank and link back to the person who gave you the award.
* Share 7 things about yourself.
* Pass the award along to 10 other bloggers who you recently discovered and think are fabulous.
* Contact the bloggers you chose and let them know about the award.
7 Things About Me:
1. I hated tomatoes growing up and didn't ever eat them until I was pregnant with Alison and fell in love with Chevy's salsa.

2. I receive a lot of compliments on my handwriting. It's nice because I spent a lot of time practicing in high school, not taking notes, actually practicing my super-cool handwriting.

3. I love that necklace that Mariska Hargitay wears
on Law and Order:SVU
and my wonderful husband had one custom made for me for our anniversary.
4. I own 2 Swatch watches.
5. As a kid, I loved red licorice, not twizzlers, the legitimate stuff you can get on the Boardwalk in Ocean City.
6. I love fine-point Sharpie markers.
7. I make up word a lot, in English and now in Spanish. :)
I award the following bloggers:

Counting My Blessings

PoMo Golightly

Halfway Down the Stairs

Running, Knitting & Such

The future

2010-09-25T14:04:00.002-05:00

Both of my lovely sisters are pregnant with princesses who will be born in the next few months. Throw in a few friends who are also expecting and I feel like I've been churning out baby stuff for months -- baby stuff that's still here in Nica and seriously needs to get mailed. :)

I'm just about to finish my last baby gift and am setting my sights to the future.

The future uses small needles.

The future is a project that won't sit on my lap and make me hot while I knit it.

The future is also a gift, but a somewhat predictable one so I'll probably still blog about it.

The future begins Oct 1.

The future is Socktoberfest-friendly.

Here's to happy sock-knitting, care to join me?

Happy 8th Birthday Alison!

2010-09-17T09:43:00.000-05:00

This year Alison celebrates her third birthday abroad -- a great way to start a life if ever I've heard one! :) She's having a slumber party with friends from school and church that we're all hoping we survive.

The road to eight has been paved with a lot of growth and changes. Our little girl is becoming more than a big girl. She's asking questions. She's making decisions based on long-term outcome instead of short-term.

Still a voracious reader, Ali's gotten pretty good at reading in Spanish. And speaking Spanish, too. It's still pretty funny to listen to her go off on a tangent in Spanish with her friends -- it makes her sound a lot more intense.

Big girl things have become more important: purses, nailpolish, not-Princesses, distance from her little sister; and it's been a little difficult for this mommy, but we're all growing.

Happy Birthday Roo! I love you a million!

Love Languages

2010-09-09T20:25:00.002-05:00

The description in 1 Corinthians 13:3-7 describes what love IS, perfectly.

If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up.

Love cares more for others than for self.

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.

Love doesn't strut,

Doesn't have a swelled head,

Doesn't force itself on others,

Isn't always "me first,"

Doesn't fly off the handle,

Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,

Doesn't revel when others grovel,

Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,

Puts up with anything,

Trusts God always,

Always looks for the best,

Never looks back,

But keeps going to the end.

Therefore, that must also mean love is NOT a "feeling." It is a verb. An action. It is what you DO.

God designed 3 types of love and 5 love languages.

The 3 types of love are:

EROS: commonly known as erotic or romantic love

PHILOS: a friendly or brotherly love -a la Philadelphia (the city of brotherly love).

AGAPE: unconditional-the love a parent has for a child and God's love toward us.

Next, come the LOVE LANGUAGES.

Love languages are how we interpret and express love that is both given and received.

1-WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

You experience someone's love most when they encourage you and speak words of affirmation

2-QUALITY TIME

You experience someone's love when they simply spend time with you and make themselves available

3-RECEIVING GIFTS

You experience someone's love most when they express it with physical gifts.

4-ACTS OF SERVICE

You experience someone's love most when they take on some of your responsibilities and do things for you.

5-PHYSICAL TOUCH

You experience someone's love most when they hug you or just hold your hand.

You can take a quiz, found HERE , that helps you identify your love language.

My love language is Words of Affirmation, followed quickly by Quality Time. These two are biggies to me and anyone who has spent a lot of time with me could probably guess them. Alison and Wayne's language is Physical Touch so they get LOTS of hugs!

Even if you show someone else how much you love them using YOUR love language, they might not experience the depth of love you're trying to express. Express your love for them in THEIR love language and watch them light up and your relationship improve. I think everyone should figure out what theirs is and what the love language is of those they love!

HIYA Papaya: August 2010 Newsletter

2010-09-01T19:25:00.000-05:00

August 2010 Newsletter

Happy 100th Day!

2010-08-26T17:47:00.002-05:00

Today, Centro Escolar LifeLink had our very first 100th day celebration -- complete with yummy treats, a 100 link chain decorated by our students, a balloon drop and lots of fun! We are totally honored to be able to celebrate this occasion and serve our beautiful students.

More photos to follow. :)

A Gift

2010-08-20T20:43:00.002-05:00

Each day, I greet all of our students by name at the gate. I wish them a good morning. I extend greetings to their parents and siblings as well and have started to remember many of their names too.

Some mornings I'll receive a fist-full of flowers picked on the walk to school. Other days, I'll get a bag of mango slices or an avocado from someone's tree.

I receive each gift with thanks and a hug.

Last week, I received a very different gift.

Elisa came to find me in the auditorium to let me know that two of our students had just arrived a bit late and their mother had a gift for me. A smile played at the corners of her mouth while she said she could not wait to see how I reacted. I didn't know what to expect as I headed down the sidewalk. The students are two of the most impoverished students in our school and I knew that anything they could give would be a treasure to them.

I approached their mother who had her back to me and when she turned around, she handed me a bunny. A real, live bunny rabbit.

She immediately started giving me instructions about how often he needs to be bathed, what he eats, etc. I was shocked that I was holding a bunny, not-to-mention that I was now the proud owner of one.

That afternoon we brought Pelusa the bunny home and the girl's immediately fell in love with him. Emily has plans to take him to school when we get him a travel cage and we'd also like to take him to visit our students periodically. He eats a lot of carrots and celery, but is much quieter than the dog. :)

An excellent gift!

Beattitudes Redux

2010-08-19T17:57:00.002-05:00

Blessed are the poor in spirit, those who mourn and are meek and constantly hunger and thirst for righteousness. Through their mercy and pure hearts they are peacemakers and because of their right lifestyle and because of My name they are often persecuted.

Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven and they shall enjoy my comfort and my inheritance. I will fill them, show them mercy and show them My face. I will call them My sons and daughters, again I say that the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs for great is their reward in Heaven!

-- based on I John 2:6

Emily the Exploradora

2010-08-14T20:34:00.004-05:00

While our very first group was here this past week, helping us celebrate and complete our first year in the missions field, our little Emily participated in some very brave fun. Not quite unexpected for a kid who, if we visit another country this year, will have visited one country for each year of her life -- something we hope she continues throughout her life.

Emily and I bravely took our first zip-line tour over the Tiscapa Lagoon in Managua. She LOVED it!!

Knitting Skillz Master List

2010-07-07T20:53:00.004-05:00

I think the biggest surprise is the fact that after almost 8 years of knitting -- I've still never done a long-tail cast-on. :)

Afghan/BlanketAfghan
I-cord
Garter stitch
Knitting with metal wire
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Hat
Knitting with silk
Moebius band knitting
Participating in a KAL
Sweater
Drop stitch patterns
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (modular knitting)
Twisted stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two end knitting
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Cardigan
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with circular needles
Knitting with your own handspun yarn
Slippers
Graffiti knitting (knitting items on, or to be left on the street)
Continental Knitting
Designing knitted garments
Cable stitch patterns
Lace patterns
Publishing a knitting book
Scarf
American/English knitting
Knitting to make money
Button holes
Knitting with alpaca
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cozies)
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars
Olympic knitting (albeit unsuccessful)
Knitting with someone else's handspun yarn
Knitting with DPNs
Holiday related knitting
Teaching a male how to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living
Knitting with cotton
Knitting smocking
Dying yarn
Steek
Knitting art
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener BO
Purses/bags
Knitting with beads
Swatching
Long Tail CO
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Machine knitting
Knitting with self-patterning/self-striping/variegating yarn
Stuffed toys
Baby items
Knitting with cashmere
Darning
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Intarsia
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Freeform knitting
Short rows
Cuffs/fingerless mitts/arm warmers
Pillows
Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine
Rug
Knitting on a loom
Thrummed knitting>
Knitting a gift
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Hair accessories
Knitting in public

Feliz cumpleaños Em!

2010-07-04T18:50:00.001-05:00

Happiest of birthdays to my littlest princess!

We're headed under the sea...

2010-07-02T21:28:00.001-05:00

For Emily's Little Mermaid birthday party tomorrow afternoon -- I've got a faboo cake planned, but haven't been able to find the exact ingredients I need. I've got some stand-ins and we'll see how it turns out. :)

July 1: Stepping up my game

2010-07-01T12:53:00.002-05:00

I'm going to try out a July of NaBloPoMo -- the monthly theme is "saved", but there are also daily post starters to help out. I'll probably touch on a mix of the two and can't say I won't also throw in a meme or two. :)

July is going to be crazy-busy for us here in Nica so hopefully I'll have lots to talk about.

In a big country, dreams stay with you

2010-06-27T19:26:00.002-05:00

I am constantly amazed at the beauty of Nicaragua. From the sunrise over the mountains (and volcano!) during the drive into work to the sunset at the beach over the Pacific Ocean, it's all so beautiful.

We spent a few days at the beach earlier this week and I took a lot of photos -- these are some of my favorites.

Daybook: June 24, 2010

2010-06-24T16:55:00.002-05:00

Grabbed this little meme from my friend Allison's blog. :)

Out my window: The little mountain across the street bathed in afternoon sunlight.

I am listening to: The fan next to my desk.

I am thankful for: This fan, it's a little warm here today. :)

From the kitchen: I have wings marinating in the fridge that Wayne is going to grill for dinner. Plus sauteed green beans with almonds and butter.

I am creating: Super-secret baby gifts.

I am reading: Sue Grafton novels on my ipod touch -- ebooks are a missionaries best friend!

Around the house: Still unpacking from beach vacation, but all the laundry is done.

One of my favorite things: The way Emily rubs her fingers together against the flannel of her blankie.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Lesson plans for second semester English classes at the school.

I am thinking: About plans for Emily's birthday party and where I can buy some fireworks...

Headed to the beach

2010-06-19T12:43:00.001-05:00

Last night we had a family vacation planning meeting. Here's a glimpse at what the next handful of days have in store for us:

Fraggles!!

2010-05-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T12:35:00.002-05:00

Mum's Day was celebrated in March at my Mom's house in England. Today both my sisters are celebrating (Erin's first!). We'll celebrate here in Nica at the end of the month.

All the dates and locations aside, I am BLESSED to have an amazing mom who I try to celebrate every day. I am BLESSED to be a mom and strive each day to be the best that I can. And I am additionally BLESSED by all of the wonderful, strong, amazing mom friends I have.

Happy Mother's Day!!

FO: Rainbow Socks, or the socks that took two years

2010-03-29T16:44:00.002-05:00

Pattern: Monkey by Cookie A.

Yarn: Schachenmayr nomotta Regia Crazy Color 4-ply in Color #5399

Needles: 2 16" KnitPicks Size 1 circulars

Last week I cast off my much-loved pair of Rainbow Monkey socks. I'm not sure why they took so long. While knitting them, the Yarn Harlot blogged about the yarn and just about everyone else in my knitting group made themselves a pair. I guess life just got in the way of chart reading. :)

Faboo pattern, but I'm doubting anyone needs my recommendation this late in the game. Excellent yarn -- the color is dreamy. The wool is a bit itchy and much too warm for Nica, but Ali has adopted them as her own and I'm not one to argue with children who are willfully accepting knitted items.

While they are not exactly alike, they're really close -- definitely as close as I think I could get them given I modified sock 1, but didn't leave myself notes for sock 2. :)

And with just a bit of yarn left (and having already put a block in the SYB), I came up with this little number for my sweet Emily. She who loves all things knitted and who has already worn this jobby in about 50 different ways.

Resurrection Cookie Recipe

2010-03-27T17:47:00.003-05:00

It's Holy Week here in Nicaragua and we've already seen our fair share of Jesus', crucifixs and other religious icons. Having not been raised Catholic, the uber-Catholic traditions of Nicaragua are really interesting and new to me.

But ultimately, God is about relationship and not ritual. Or bunnies. Which is why, in the middle of all of the hoopla this week, we'll be focusing on Him.

A great illustration of the Resurrection story is Resurrection Cookies -- perfect for kids of any age.

We'll be making ours next week, care to join us?

The cookies must be made exactly as written, and the Bible readings can be done with each step for emphasis. I have included the various scriptures so that you can print them out to read as you do the recipe.

These must be started the night before Easter.

Resurrection Cookies

1 cup whole pecans
1 teaspoon vinegar
3 egg whites
a pinch salt
1 cup sugar
a zipper baggy
1 wooden spoon
scotch tape
Bible

1. Preheat oven to 300F.
2. Before you do anything else put the whole pecans in zip-loc and let your children beat them with a meat mallet, or hammers, to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested. He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.

^{John 19:1-3}So Pilate took Jesus and had him whipped. The soldiers, having braided a crown from thorns, set it on his head, threw a purple robe over him, and approached him with, "Hail, King of the Jews!" Then they greeted him with slaps in the face.

3. Allow each child to smell the vinegar. Put 1 teaspoon vinegar into mixing bowl.
Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross He was given vinegar
to drink.

^{John 19:28-30}Jesus, seeing that everything had been completed so that the Scripture record might also be complete, then said, "I'm thirsty." A jug of sour wine was standing by. Someone put a sponge soaked with the wine on a javelin and lifted it to his mouth. After he took the wine, Jesus said, "It's done . . . complete." Bowing his head, he offered up his spirit.

4. Add the egg whites to the vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.

John 10-11: I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. "I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd puts the sheep before himself, sacrifices himself if necessary.

5. Put a little of the salt into each child’s hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest
into the bowl. If you have a lot of kids like I do put the pinch of salt INTO the bowl and then allow them to taste a little of salt or you will have too much salt in the recipe! Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.

Luke 23:27 A huge crowd of people followed, along with women weeping and carrying on. At one point Jesus turned to the women and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, don't cry for me.

6. So far the ingredients would not make a very good dessert! Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to
know and belong to Him.

^{Psalm 34:8} Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good God is.
Blessed are you who run to him.

John 3:16 This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.

7. Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks form. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God’s eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.

^{Isaiah 1:18}"Come. Sit down. Let's argue this out."
This is God's Message:
"If your sins are blood-red,
they'll be snow-white.

^{John 3:1-3} There was a man of the Pharisee sect, Nicodemus, a prominent leader among the Jews. Late one night he visited Jesus and said, "Rabbi, we all know you're a teacher straight from God. No one could do all the God-pointing, God-revealing acts you do if God weren't in on it." Jesus said, "You're absolutely right. Take it from me: Unless a person is born from above, it's not possible to see what I'm pointing to—to God's kingdom."

8. Fold in the broken nuts. Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper covered cookie sheet.
Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid.

^{Matthew 27:57-60}Late in the afternoon a wealthy man from Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, arrived. His name was Joseph. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. Pilate granted his request. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in clean linens, put it in his own tomb, a new tomb only recently cut into the rock, and rolled a large stone across the entrance. Then he went off.

9. Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.

10. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door.
Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed.

^{Matthew 27:65-66}Pilate told them, "You will have a guard. Go ahead and secure it the best you can." So they went out and secured the tomb, sealing the stone and posting guards.

11. Now, go to bed. Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.

John 16:20, 22 Then fix this firmly in your minds: You're going to be in deep mourning while the godless world throws a party. You'll be sad, very sad, but your sadness will develop into gladness...The sadness you have right now is similar to that pain, but the coming joy is also similar. When I see you again, you'll be full of joy, and it will be a joy no one can rob from you. You'll no longer be so full of questions.

12. On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked
surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow!

On the first Easter Jesus’ followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.

Matthew 28:1-10 After the Sabbath, as the first light of the new week dawned, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to keep vigil at the tomb. Suddenly the earth reeled and rocked under their feet as God's angel came down from heaven, came right up to where they were standing. He rolled back the stone and then sat on it. Shafts of lightning blazed from him. His garments shimmered snow-white. The guards at the tomb were scared to death. They were so frightened, they couldn't move.

The angel spoke to the women: "There is nothing to fear here. I know you're looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed.

"Now, get on your way quickly and tell his disciples, 'He is risen from the dead. He is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there.' That's the message."

The women, deep in wonder and full of joy, lost no time in leaving the tomb. They ran to tell the disciples. Then Jesus met them, stopping them in their tracks. "Good morning!" he said. They fell to their knees, embraced his feet, and worshiped him. Jesus said, "You're holding on to me for dear life! Don't be frightened like that. Go tell my brothers that they are to go to Galilee, and that I'll meet them there."

1 Maniac

2010-03-10T19:15:00.001-05:00

"The middle of the night belongs to your mother, the middle of the night belongs to us."

-- Alison

(her interpretation of 'Because the Night' by the 10,000 Maniacs)

LOST

2010-03-06T13:34:00.002-05:00

I have spent the last three months re-watching the first five seasons of LOST with the help of DVDs, iTunes and the interwebs. Note that I said "re-watching", that's because I have been watching LOST since the very first Wednesday it aired.

I remember watching the first episode and thinking that the writers/producers/show-makers had decided that they could do whatever they wanted with the plot and I was definitely interested in where that was going to go.

In college, as a Communication major who wanted to go into film, I took a lot of classes on being a critical observer and on plot. I figure out the ending to a lot of movies, usually pretty early on. It's not because I want to, but it just happens. LOST has always surprised me, I've been able to simply watch and not worry about being disappointed because I figured it out too soon.

Wayne's never taken to it, although he did watch seasons 1-3 with me during the great rewatch, but they weren't as good because he'd seen a lot from the future episodes. Enough to erase the suspense that has made the show so good.

During the rewatch I've been looking for a specific flashback episode with Locke, but as it turns out, apparently my LOST-obsessed brain made it up. That's right, I made up an episode of possibly the most confusing show ever, further confusing myself.

I've got the first handful of episodes from season 6 waiting for me in iTunes. I'm excited to start watching them!

UFO: Rainbow Monkey Socks

2010-02-28T20:46:00.002-05:00

The current not-snowy weather here in Central America has led me to a hankering to knit small, not-blankety things. So after working up a few dishclothes for the kitchen at the base, my hands turned to socks.

While I went through my yarn contico (trunk) looking for something to start, I happened upon a ziploc bag with one Rainbow Monkey sock and a full ball of yarn. I didn't remember when I started them or why I didn't kitchner Sock 1 closed, but here they were with my size 1 circular needles.

After a quick grafting session with Sock 1, I cast on for Sock 2 on Saturday morning. Right now, Sunday night, I'm almost to the heel flap -- I think they were just what I was looking for. :)

My Little Preschooler

2010-02-12T20:24:00.002-05:00

Emily has just completed her first complete week of Preschool here in Nica and she LOVES it.

She comes home everyday with her work from the day and our refrigerator has been full of her daily accomplishments. I'm really impressed with the curriculum and teaching path her school is using as they introduce colors, shapes, letters, prewriting and all the standard preschool stuff.

She's a cutie!

p.s. That's totally our bright green house in the background, no HOAs dictating colors here. :)

iTunes

2010-02-03T19:32:00.000-05:00

Me: How did this song get on my iTunes?

Wayne: Because your iTunes recognized that this song is awesome and wanted you to be awesomer.

First Day of Second Grade!

2010-02-01T21:07:00.002-05:00

Things have been very busy here in Casa Tingle. Work is moving forward at a rapid pace and we're really excited to see all the things God is allowing to happen! In the midst of all that, we've made a conscious effort to be a family.

A family who eats dinner together. Who reads stories at bedtime and says nighttime prayers together. A family who has fun together. :)

Our family has also been preparing to send two little chickies to school this week. The Nicaraguan school calendar runs February to November so we've just completed our "summer" break. :)

Alison is returning to the Christian school she attended last fall for one month. We attended her Open House on Friday night and discovered that instead of placing her in first grade (so she'd get a full year of 1st grade), that the Director, first grade teacher and second grade teacher got together and decided that she could handle second grade! We're really proud of her! She's such a smart cookie. :)

She woke up at 4AM today because she was so excited! She and I had breakfast together where she told me about how she thought the day was going to go.

A little while later, the transport arrived and she was off.

The school holds a great position on academics and in the interest of not wasting anytime sent home her first homework assignments today! With a little help she was able to complete all of her homework, in Spanish, without getting frustrated! It's going to be a great year!

RIP: J.D. Salinger

2010-01-28T17:54:00.001-05:00

Anyway, I keep picturing all these little kids playing some game in this big field of rye and all. Thousands of little kids, and nobody's around - nobody big, I mean - except me. And I'm standing on the edge of some crazy cliff. What I have to do, I have to catch everybody if they start to go over the cliff - I mean if they're running and they don't look where they're going I have to come out from somewhere and catch them. That's all I do all day. I'd just be the catcher in the rye and all. I know it's crazy, but that's the only thing I'd really like to be.

-- The Catcher in the Rye

2010-01-24T09:57:00.003-05:00

LifeLink International is pleased to announce that our Child Sponsorship program is now Live! Our preschool opens in Feb. 2010 with 100 students and they all need sponsors. Please consider how you can be a part of this great program.

A $35 a month sponsorship links you directly to a child. You will be aiding the child in purchasing supplies, clothes, a daily nutritional meal, and getting a Christian education.

You can get more information at www.lifelinkint.org. Click "Child Sponsorships".

If you have any questions you can use the contact page or feel free to email me directly at mtingle@lifelinkint.org

The gift of opportunity becomes the gift of a lifetime.

Emily cuteness

2010-01-23T18:32:00.002-05:00

I've made chili for dinner -- from scratch! as there is no handy-dandy McCormick's mix here -- which is not on Emily's rider of approved dinner options. Instead of throwing a fit she instead approached me with the following request:

"Can I have a hot dog for dinner, or-haps?"

And I melted.

Orhaps is totally the new perhaps. :)

Linkity-link-link-link

2010-01-17T15:21:00.002-05:00

In place of an actual post about knitting or Nica or the fam since I've been very busy, here is a list of links from my google reader that I think you should check out. I was a diehard bloglines fan and resisted the Reader forever, but Wayne started using it and when I tried it, "just to see", I immediately fell in love. If you still click from blog to blog, I highly recommend it.

Magic Pixie Knitter : http://magicpixieknitter.blogspot.com/ <-- my friend Adrienne, an amazingly talented chick who knits a lot!

Lolly Knitting Around : http://lollygirl.com/blog <-- great photography, also writes about yoga, library-ing, healthy living and travel.

Nicole the Knitting Goddess : http://knittinggoddess.typepad.com/ <-- my friend Nicole, great photos, this chick finishes projects faster than anyone I know. Lots of FOs and great details about yarn subs and mods.

Halfway Down the Stairs : http://halfway-down-the-stairs.blogspot.com/ <-- Guinifer knits socks, lots of them! A real inspiration for pattern and yarn ideas.

Fricknits : http://fricknits.typepad.com/ <-- Julie is a knitter, crocheter, quilter and more. Gorgeous photos, great inspiration.

365 days in the life of one blanket

2010-01-01T18:55:00.004-05:00

Started Jan. 1, 2009

Knit in 3 countries and 2 states on Addi Turbo 16" circulars, size 2.

Includes yarns from socks I've knit, projects of dear friends and fellow knitters I'll probably never meet. And hand-dyed and handspun yarns.

This blanket has spawned, at last count, 6 or 7 other blankets.

It has been my constant companion in a year of a lot of change. It hold memories that I'll treasure for a very long time.

I plan to continue to add to it -- Lord knows I have the yarn. :)

More photos of the blankie adventure: http://www.flickr.com/photos/megaknits/sets/72157612411946506/

Not usually one to politick

2009-12-28T15:40:00.001-05:00

But I read this in the online paper last week and it struck a chord:

"I don't know how Sen. Jesus would vote on health care. I don't think he is a socialist, a free-market capitalist, a Democrat, a liberal, or in the case of prosperity Gospel adherents--a Ponzi-sheme artist. I don't think Jesus is for fewer taxes and smaller government, or more taxes and bigger government. People who claim other wise are creating God in their own image. These matters fall under the domain of Ceaser. Unfortunately, our version of Ceaser leaves much to be desired, as we have seen by the machinations in Congress. Need a vote? Give a bribe.

Republicans obsess over the fate of the unborn and the near-dead but seem much less concerned about those in between. Democrats will pay for it all with Medicare cuts everybody knows aren't coming. Both sides tell us we won't have to sacrifice when, in fact, I think we should be asked to sacrifice.

So my prayer is this simple: Dear God, by the time they are done, please let everyone who is sick in the upcoming decade see a doctor. And please have us pay cash.

For he will deliver the needy when he cries for help. The afflicted also, and him who has no helper.-Psalm 72:12"

--the article was written by Mike Thomas. The article appeared on Dec. 24th in the Orlando Sentinel.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T21:38:00.001-05:00

November 2009 Newsletter

2009-11-29T10:43:00.001-05:00

November 2009 Newsletter

A glimpse at the why

2009-11-19T21:30:00.007-05:00

We face a humanity that is too precious to neglect.

We know a remedy for the ills of the world too wonderful to withhold.

We have a Christ too glorious to hide.

We have an adventure that is too thrilling to miss.
--Theodore Williams

Photo by Paul Triller, www.paultriller.com

Knitting Progress!!

2009-11-03T07:42:00.003-05:00

Since it is technically winter here, I've been trying to take advantage of the cooler bits of the day to get some knitting done. I got out the Toshtastic Shalom and have been making good progress.

I knit two squares of the blanket last night, while missing my knitting ladies in Jamlando. :) Here's how it's looking now, complete with adorable 3-year-old to provide scale.

We just hosted a group, you can read about it here.

October 18...

2009-10-08T08:57:00.002-05:00

...is National Chocolate Cupcake Day!! And since we're moving this weekend, I should be able to bake a batch to celebrate in our new house!!

Sustainability

2009-09-21T19:49:00.003-05:00

This past weekend we had the privilege of meeting the family of our nanny, Miriam. They live in Los Encuentras, a small town in the mountains.
Their house is made of concrete and mud block with a tile roof that isn't quite perfect. The floor is dirt and several of the interior walls are tarps.

But what they lack in material possessions, they've quadrupled in kindness, hospitality and love.
On their property there are 4 houses, each houses a relative of Miriam's parents. They live together in a little community, helping each other and enjoying time together.
Mama Carmen and Miriam's Tia Frances bake bread to sell in the market everyday. The flour for the bread comes from the corn and wheat on Miriam's Dad's farm. From seed to finished product, they do it all.When the corn is ready to be harvested, they lay it out on tarps until it is dry. Then they grind it by hand into flour. They make a lot of dough, then prepare tortillas, bread and sweet bread. On days that they don't go to the market to sell the bread, Miriam's cousins, Frances (10) and Lucy (9), sell it door to door in the town.

While we were visiting I learned how to make a corn tortilla, prepare the dough for baking the bread and how to form the sweet bread with filling. It was a great experience. So many strong women, joined in camaraderie and work.

Miriam's mom took me aside while we were there and told me that their door is never closed to us. I think we'll go back often -- and I'd love to spend a day baking and selling with them. :)

Happiest 7th Birthday Alison

2009-09-17T16:16:00.002-05:00

Seven years ago I got the opportunity of a lifetime -- thanks to one very special little girl, I got to be a mommy!

Alison, you are an amazing daughter. You're smart and funny and beautiful. I love you! I love the way you devour books and tell knock-knock jokes. I love that you're learning more Spanish everyday and really embracing life here in Nica.

I love you baby!!

Never forget

2009-09-11T18:20:00.002-05:00

It's weird to be in another country on days that are special in America. On Labor Day, there weren't any BBQs with friends or big movie openings in Nica. It was just another day to the people here. We took the opportunity to learn about the history of Labor Day and practiced our Spanish as we retold it to our teachers and friends.

Today is another of those days. Judging by Facebook, it's been a day wrapped in somber thoughts and rememberings. I don't want us to forget that. Last night, we told Alison about what happened 8 years ago. We told her what we were doing when the planes hit. How we felt that day and the following weeks.

Today I had a long conversation with a friend about it. She was aware of the event, but not the date.

While we prepare to celebrate the 14th of Septiembre (Independence from William Walker) and the 15th of Septiembre (Independence for Central America from Spain), we are embracing this new culture that we live in.

But on days like today, I want to remember home. I want to always remember.

Besties

2009-09-08T11:49:00.003-05:00

Things are going well here in Nicaragua and I have a bigger post in the works.

In the meantime, I am so happy to have two girls who are adapting really well. Their smiles everyday are great to see.

Contrary to this photo, we do not make them sleep on the floor, they were just being goofy one night on their Jeanne Kolb original blankies. :)

¡Beinvenidos a Nicaragua!

2009-08-21T15:41:00.002-05:00

We arrived safely in Managua late last week and this week has been BUSY!! We're trying to get settled in, acclimated to the roads and the culture, sleep a little, learn Spanish and more!

A few observations:

* There are a lot of crocheters here and one of the girls who works in our complex told me where I can buy yarn!

* After years of stick straight hair, apparently the humidity here is strong enough to curl my hair a bit.

* Alison believes that she can leash all animals and thinks they should live in our house. Including the parrot that lives near the patio.

* Emily is in heaven because it seems that the national food is chicken. :)

We're headed out to the base today to play with the kids who live nearby. Lots of ball kicking and practicing our Spanish. Photos soon. :)

3 days!!

2009-08-10T11:28:00.002-05:00

In three days we get on a plane and move to Nicaragua!

THREE DAYS!!!!!

If you were to see the current state of our house you'd probably wonder if indoor tornados are possible. We've already shipped down four containers and now with a little bit of courage and the magical powers of Space Bags, I've got to get everything else into eight trunks and two carry-ons.

YIKES!!!

Sock Yarn Blanket, megaknits-style

2009-07-29T14:07:00.002-05:00

A few of you have asked in person and online how I am making me squares. Here's the pattern:

Cast on 31 sts.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 13, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 13, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 12, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 12, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 11, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 11, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 10, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 10, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 9, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 9, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 8, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 8, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 7, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 7, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 6, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 6, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 5, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 5, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 4, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 4, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 3, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 3, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 2, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 2, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Knit 1, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Knit 1, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 1 Purlwise, Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass slipped sts over, Slip 1 Purlwise.

Knit.

Slip 2, Knit 1, pass slipped sts over.

That's how I do it. I leaves an edge with very identifiable stitches to pick up and all the "work" is done on the one side.

If you forget how many you're supposed to knit before the decrease in the center, look for the gap - knit to one before it. If you still can't tell, count the number of stitches on your needles. Subtract 5 and divide by 2, that's how many sts. you should knit on each side of the "v".

Pack it up, pack it in

2009-07-21T09:55:00.002-05:00

Everything needs to fit into 12 containers. Eight on the plane with us, four strapped in the back of the truck. So far, so good.

Happy Independence Day!!

2009-07-04T21:15:00.003-05:00

It's been busy in these parts, but today was a day for celebrating with friends and welcoming our little Emily officially into the world of big-girldom. :)

That's right, our little Emily is 3 years old!! Happy Birthday Lovey!!

SYB Insanity

2009-06-20T08:05:00.002-05:00

I'm currently 6 months into knitting my Sock Yarn Blankie and can confidently say I'm halfway to my expected end point. Well, my originally projected end point.

There's been some suggesting going on. Suggestions regarding the size of the blanket. Some seem to think that a big bed-size blankie is the the blankie for me -- I'm not sure, but we'll see.

In the past week I've been able to meet up with two other SYB knitters -- one at WWKIP Day and the other, my dear Wendy who came to visit one last time before her big move.

If SYB was a in-home sales company, I'd have like 10 people in my downline by now! I've some how managed to make the blankie look so interesting that several others in NYGK have asked for starter kits and I've happily complied. Before I leave for Nica, I'll be sure to snag photos with each of them. :)

Apple in a Cup

2009-06-19T06:20:00.001-05:00

Emily doesn't like to hold cold apples. Thanks to IKEA, she has a little solution.

One more week of 20s

2009-06-05T10:39:00.002-05:00

In seven days I will be 30 years old.

Each time I try to sit down and reminisce about the last 10 years, I'm overwhelmed. So many things that mattered to me 10 years ago are insignificant now. Others are even more important. I've changed a lot, but some things are still the same.

I feel good about turning 30.

I have an amazing husband, two great girls, a family who loves and supports me, a purpose, a faith that becomes more unshakeable with each passing day, great friends (some of who are more than a decade old).

I pray that at 40, a lot of these statements will still be true. :)

Getting Greener All the Time

2009-05-31T15:13:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago the girls and I visited two of our local farmer's markets to see what they were all about. The produce tents reminded us a lot of Mexico and I found so many great deals on amazing fruits & veggies. I also picked up a basil plant to see if I could manage to not kill it.

When we got home, the basil plant got a place of honor on our desk, with great sunlight and daily watering by me. I've enjoyed picking the leaves and adding fresh basil to lasagna, sandwiches and pasta. When Wayne & I went to Mexico last weekend, I forgot to include plant watering in my list about stuff around the house for the girl's sitter.

On Monday, I found a sad, wilted plant.

I was pretty bummed out, but figured a little water might save it. By the time I got home from work Tuesday, the plant was back to it's old self. Hooray!

This morning, we visited another, Sunday-only market that we've not been to because of church, but our service this week is tonight. It was a gorgeous morning to walk around. We grabbed some great produce, once again and scored a big basket of less-than-desirable peaches for $1! We're going to make smoothies so we don't care how they look. :)

One of the plant vendors had some chives & mint plants for sale. Encouraged by the basil plant, we picked them up. Then after a quick stop at Old Time Pottery, we had an afternoon project that everyone could help with.

$.59 terra cotta pots + crayons + herb plants = great personalized desk garden! :)

Two-Day Projects

2009-05-21T19:12:00.003-05:00

I've not abandoned my Blankie or my sweater, but a few smaller projects have worked their way into my hands over the last week.

For Emily, Legwarmies!!! She loves them and it's a little difficult to get her to not wear them. As soon as Ali saw them she asked for a pair and some for her arms. I know it's been raining a lot lately, but these two seem to forget that typical weather this time of year is in the 90s!

Each warmie took just about two days. :)

Before the warmies, I knit up to bibs for one of the ladies who brings her son to the Center. She's a really great mom and a bit overwhelmed by everything, so I figured a small gift would let her know I care. I knit two of the Baby Bib O' Loves from Mason-Dixon Knitting.

Fun with PhotoBooth

2009-05-15T06:59:00.002-05:00

I sewed some dresses for the girls last weekend. Nothing to fancy, just a smocked top sundress to wear to church on Mother's Day. I was getting ready and asked them to take some photos of themselves with PhotoBooth. I ended up with a lot of this...

Stitches South: In photos, in reverse

2009-05-05T21:09:00.003-05:00

Blogger is being difficult and I'm too sleepy to mess with it. So, the top photo is my haul -- I spent less than $75 and got everything I need to make a Shalom sweater, which I have already started. That's some smooshy, beautiful madelinetosh Tosh Worsted. I *heart* it mucho!!

Next up, Mom, me and Adrienne on the market floor at Stitches. I wanted to take millions more photos, but there was a no cameras rule which I only broke for a few minutes.

In the car, at yummy breakfast with Amanda at West Egg Cafe and at the Georgia Welcome Center. It was fun, and fast, road trip -- I hope I get the chance to go again sometime.

Day 24: Road Trip

2009-04-24T09:44:00.001-05:00

I'm off to Stitches South -- no classes, just hitting the Marketplace all day Saturday. Great post of photos and fun coming soon.

Day 18 & 19: Central Florida Fair

2009-04-19T18:43:00.002-05:00

Honorable Mention February Lady Sweater!

First Place Ampersand Socks!

It was a gorgeous day, weatherwise! A fun day -- full of friends and family. Alison overcame her fear of all rides scary. I rode 'The Ring of Fire' with my Dad. Emily won a fish she's named Rocky.

Fun!

Days 16 & 17: Lots of working

2009-04-17T20:12:00.001-05:00

I've worked almost 24 hours in the last two days and I'm posting this from work -- crazy! But a blessing and I love what I'm doing. :)

Tomorrow is the Central Florida Fair and NYGK is demo-ing from 1-5PM. If you're in the area, come by and visit us in the Creative Arts Building. I'll find out if I won any awards and be back with lots of photos tomorrow.

Day 15: Taxes

2009-04-15T21:22:00.002-05:00

Have you filed yours?

We haven't. A few months ago our Quickbooks crashed. I knew it was a big deal, but haven't had the time to get everything back together. Last weekend I was determined to do them, but got caught in the avalanche of re-entering and filing the data.

Needless to say, I didn't get everything done. So two days ago, I filed for an extension.

There's something very tempting about taking my 6 months more to get them done, but I may try to work on them this weekend.

Day 14: Stitches South

2009-04-14T21:17:00.001-05:00

I'm going with some of my knitting group friends. Plus we get to visit with a former member who moved to Atlanta.

Are you going?? Want to meet up??

Day 13: Back in Love

2009-04-13T08:10:00.000-05:00

After a brief respite to knit some items for an upcoming charity auction, I picked up the Blankie again. I'm just as in love with it as ever. Great ideas aside, I've got a good thing going. I'm glad I took the time to really think about it before frogging. :)

Thanks for all of your encouraging words. Photos soon.

Day 12: Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T19:02:00.003-05:00

It's not about eggs, candy or bunnies. It's about a God who is not dead, but who is ALIVE!

Luke 24: 1-10

Day 10 & 11: I majored in Communications

2009-04-11T18:11:00.003-05:00

Blogger ate yesterday's post and instead of reposting, I'm just moving on.

I went to school to be a filmmaker. I made lots of short films in college which may creep up here soon if I can get them transferred. :)

Today, I broke out the point and shoot camera, through some footage in iMovie and made this:

Not too shabby for 10 minutes of work. It was fun to make too, especially the credits. I love fonts and typography. More to come soon. :)

Day 9: Smells fruity

2009-04-09T20:49:00.002-05:00

A few weekend ago, I got together with a few of my knitting friends to dye some yarn with kool-aid! It was a lot of fun!

We used the directions found here and had some interesting results.

I was aiming for pink and purple, but got red and purple. Plus a lovely yellow yarn I have no idea what to do with.

Day 8: Lots of working

2009-04-08T07:26:00.000-05:00

Is keeping me from blogging, but tomorrow there will be photos. Promise.

Day 7: Sad

2009-04-07T21:24:00.002-05:00

Tonight was my dear Wendy's last night with the NYGK ladies. In an effort to not have to say goodbye, I invited her to dinner on Thursday -- she leaves on Friday.

I'm bummed and sad.

:(

But also very happy and excited for all her new opportunities...

Day 6: Potato Chip Scarf

2009-04-06T21:14:00.002-05:00

Totally cute scarf! I'm just finishing one in Moonlight Mohair (which was only $1.99/ball at my Michaels) for a charity auction my boss is collecting donations for.

But the MATH!!!

90 sts to start, then you double them, to 180!! Then double that to 360!! The double that to 720!!

No wonder it's taking me three days to bind off. :)

------------

An aside: We're getting a cold front and it's beautiful outside!

Day 5: Blogshare

2009-04-05T22:10:00.002-05:00

http://neverpayretailagain.blogspot.com/

This blog has TONS of sale info, coupons and tips to save money on almost everything. It's a great add to your bloglines or google reader. Just keep in mind that you may end up shopping for great deals you may not have been shopping for if you didn't know about them. :)

Day 4: My house smells like garlic

2009-04-04T15:26:00.002-05:00

Restaurant Style Spinach-Artichoke Dip

4 cloves garlic
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 (10 ounce) container Alfredo-style pasta sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place garlic in a small baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven 20 to 30 minutes, until soft. Remove from heat. When cool enough to touch, squeeze softened garlic from skins.
In an 8x8 inch baking dish, spread the roasted garlic, spinach, artichoke hearts, Alfredo-style pasta sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese and cream cheese.
Cover and bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until cheeses are melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

Make a lot -- there will be none left. :)

Day 3: Where I Write About My Hair

2009-04-03T20:06:00.001-05:00

I'm getting my hair cut in the next few days and while that may not seem like a big deal, I'm very excited about it. My hair has grown to a reasonable length for short hair and I'm happy to have more options.

I'm considering "inverted bob", but need to do some googling to make sure I have my terms right.

Day 2: Happy

2009-04-02T19:26:00.002-05:00

I spent today with my dear friend Wendy at Universal Orlando. I was one of the lucky few who won tickets from the Super Bowl and Wendy is moving next week so we had a girl day.

We had an amazing time!

The lines were short and pleasant. The weather was decent. The company was stellar.

I rode Dueling Dragons, The Mummy and The Hulk in the front row! We brought clothes to change into and went on all the water rides - twice!

It was great and now I'm sleepy.

Day 1: Ease in gently

2009-04-01T07:56:00.002-05:00

With a short discussion.

I have over 100 squares of my blanket done.

Around square 60 I got a better idea of how I could have arranged the colors, but continued with my current plan 'cause both wouldn't work together.

To my knowledge, no one else has tried my idea.

I get lots of compliments for how I'm arranging things now, but let me tell you, the new way -- wow! :)

So a few days ago, I said out loud to my dear Wendy that maybe I'd just rip it all out and start over. Or abandon what I have and start over.

I don't know where these crazy ideas come from, nor have I done them, but I feel like I can't be happy with my already crackalackin' blanket if I continue....

3.5 lbs!!

2009-03-26T08:16:00.002-05:00

I'm freaking out guys!

I was looking for some yarn to finish a stripe -- again! not the greatest guesstimating skills. :) I wrote to a few Ravelers who had it in their stash

es and kept my fingers crossed.

One friend wrote back that she not only had the yarn I need, but "some other scraps" she could get together. Those "other scraps" amounted to 3.5 lbs!!!! of partial skeins and scraps. Wendy did the math on how many ounces that is, but all I know is that it was one HUGE number.

My blanket passed out when it saw the bag. I'm surprised I didn't too. :)

Too busy

2009-03-24T07:22:00.002-05:00

I've been neglectful with the blogging, which I think is an inevitable part of blogging. I've been busy with work, missionarying, fundraising, knitting, etc, etc.

This morning I was mulling over how to get out of my rut and back in the swing of bloggy things -- and I decided to NaPoBloMo April. I may even start now to flex my blogging muscles, but my main goal is April. 30 days.

In the meantime, Emily enjoys cupcakes:

30 Years!

2009-03-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to the most amazing husband, daddy, guitar player, scorpion killer, Mario Kart-er, man of God and friend I have ever known. I can't wait to see the amazing things your next 30 years will bring. :)

Love, Megan

Boogers

2009-03-11T13:46:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted in 2 weeks! Ick! My sincerest apologies, I've just been working a lot.

My teaching position has turned out to be a whole lot more. In addition to my two knitting classes and a knitting group I'm hosting at the center, I've taken on a lot of administrative work for the center.

It's very rewarding to support such a great place. I love to see the kids and adults who come in for classes. I love the comfortable and positive environment. I love the creativity.

I'll just have to manage my time better so that I don't ditch you all for 2 weeks again. :)

It's Just Like the Oscars!!

2009-02-26T20:26:00.002-05:00

I've been nominated, twice!, for a KreativeBlogger Award!!!

I'm so flattered!! Thanks Harriet & Nicole!!

As a new nominee, you are encouraged to:

Copy the award to your site.
Link to the person from whom you received the award.
Nominate 5 other bloggers.
Link to those on your blog.
Leave a message on the blogs you nominated.

Here are my nominations, in no particular order:

1. Adrienne -- quite possibly the craftiness lady I have the privilege of knowing.
2. Becky -- who will one day figure out how to knit and run at the same time. :)
3. Ann-Marie -- who is so creative she hosts craft nights!
3. Guinifer -- sock-knitter extraordinaire!
4. Alyson -- whose creativity has spilled over onto her husband!

Um, and that right there, is 85 squares of fabulosity!

I've Been Cheating

2009-02-21T18:49:00.002-05:00

I don't know if you've noticed, but there have been quite a few projects making their way through my progress bar badge. Some have only been up for a day, others a few days -- shhh, don't tell, but I've been cheating on my blanket.

It started innocently enough with a gift for a friend. She'd had some things happen to her and she was far away and I wanted to hug her. So I knit her a hug. More specifically a Cashmere Neckwarmer Kim K. But that little baby was on and off the needles and posted so quickly I don't have any photos. Should some turn up, I'll post them. I will say this, the pattern is quick and makes a lovely warmer. :)

Next up was a Slouchy Star-Crossed Beret by Natalie Larson for another far away friend. I did manage to grab a few photos of this one, but all self-portraits so forgive their somewhat crumminess.

Knit out of some buttery soft, wonderful, amazing Malabrigo. Swoon.

Next up, I remembered that my favorite Star Wars fan is having a baby. And we're attending the baby shower this weekend. So what better gifts than a Baby Yoda Sweater by Cari Luna and matching Yoda Hat by Sunshyne Leland?

The hat is finished and needs only the glue application to the ears. It felted beautifully and to just the right size. I used the recommended Patons Merino in Leaf Green.

The sweater is finished being knitted, but the seaming is taking some time. I've never had to seam a sweater and want very much for this to be perfect, so I'm trying to be meticulous. I used Cotton-Ease so it'll be super washable for the mom- and dad-to-be.

Last night I picked up my Scraps Blanket for the first time in almost two weeks and fell immediately back in love with it. I pulled out my yarns that have yet to be knitted and dreamed about how each square will look. I think our "break" might be coming to an end.

Happy Valentine's Day, here's some Soap!

2009-02-14T17:42:00.002-05:00

In an effort to not burden any of her classmates with another pencil or piece of candy, last weekend Alison and I made Valentine's Soaps. Very easy and kindergarten-helper-friendly -- you use the microwave.

Let me be clear, you're not actually making soap per se, more like reforming soap. :) Here's the deets:

What you need:

Bar of clear glycerin melt & pour soap
Food coloring
Mold (we used a Wilton lollipop cookie sheet)
Soap glitter
Soap fragrance

What you do:

Melt the soap in the microwave per packaging instructions.
Mix in glitter, fragrance and food color.
Pour in mold, let cool for 20-30 minutes.

Bingo-bango!

RECIPE: Amazing, Easy, Crock-Pot Chili

2009-02-09T13:42:00.003-05:00

Perfect for a frosty day, which it isn't today, but it was when I went grocery shopping.

INGREDIENTS:

2lbs ground beef
2 packets McCormick's Original Chili seasoning (I usually do one regular, one low sodium -- they also have a hot and a mild)
2-15oz cans beans (I use one light red and one dark red kidney beans, we've also tried black beans)
1-15oz can petite diced tomatoes
1-12oz can Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilis

Brown beef. Drain.
Empty all cans and seasoning packets into Crock Pot.
Add beef to Crock Pot.
Stir.
Cook on low as long as you want -- sometime I'll cook it all day, but you can go as short as one hour.
Serve with cornbread, sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar, etc.

Yum!

The Emperor of Ice-Cream by Wallace Stevens

2009-02-03T10:08:00.001-05:00

Call the roller of big cigars,
The muscular one, and bid him whip
In kitchen cups concupiscent curds.
Let the wenches dawdle in such dress
As they are used to wear, and let the boys
Bring flowers in last month's newspapers.
Let be be finale of seem.
The only emperor is the emperor of ice-cream.

Take from the dresser of deal,
Lacking the three glass knobs, that sheet
On which she embroidered fantails once
And spread it so as to cover her face.
If her horny feet protrude, they come
To show how cold she is, and dumb.
Let the lamp affix its beam.
The only emperor is the emperor of ice-cream.

Work at Home Mom

2009-01-30T07:41:00.000-05:00

(click it, there are notes)

Never underestimate the kindness...

2009-01-26T20:40:00.002-05:00

...of knitters!

I've been experiencing an avalanche of generous donations for my Sock Yarn Blanket --- it's AWESOME!!

The stripe thing is working out pretty well, except I misjudged how much of the pink/red I had/needed. I got this far:

And discovered I was 2 squares shy and out of yarn. OUT OF YARN!!! And this was one of the lovely donations I'd received.

So I hoped on the old Rav and prayed someone else owned this yarn and I could convince them to share with me. I messaged three people, the only 3 who had it in their stash. All three, lovely ladies wrote me back within 4 hours and said they'd be happy to send the yarn. No cost, I didn't even have to pay shipping.

Sherry in Alaska had replied first and today, I received this:

Wrapped in festive, glittery tissue.

Thanks Sherry!!!

Beat the Cold Chicken Soup Recipe

2009-01-23T13:15:00.002-05:00

We've had a handful of overnight, hard freezes in Central Florida, with some chilly days. Wayne and I have come down with the sniffles. I know that if it's this cold here, the rest of the country is probably feeling worse.

Today I'm making my chicken soup from a chicken. While I'm known to heat up a frozen pizza every once and a while, I'm also a big fan of making things from scratch.

Make a pot and enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces
2 quarts water, or enough to cover the chicken
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks celery with leaves, chopped
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
5 black peppercorns
6 cubes chicken bouillon, crumbled
(1 bay leaf)
(1/4 teaspoon celery seed)
(1 pinch dried thyme)

1 cup sliced carrots
1/2 cup sliced celery
1/4 cup minced onion
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

In a large pot combine chicken, water, large onion, celery with leaves, fresh parsley, peppercorns, bouillon, bay leaf, celery seed, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer 3-4 hours.
Strain stock, reserving chicken, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Skim fat from top of stock.
Remove skin and bones from chicken and cut meat into bite-size pieces.
Return stock and chicken to pot and stir in carrots, 1/2 cup sliced celery, 1/4 cup minced onion, dried parsley, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes.

We have different opinions on the whole noodles v. rice v. nothing debate, so I usually just make some on the side and add it in a per bowl fashion. If you'd like them in your soup, just add them after the stock and chicken are hot again and cook as directed. Also, ingredients in parentheses aren't absolutely necessary. :)

40 blocks & a class

2009-01-17T20:30:00.002-05:00

I've completed over 40 blocks of my Sock Yarn Blanket and still very much in love with it. I'm alternating solid and mis-matched rows and have just started the second solid row. These blocks aren't only finished being knit, but finished -- I wove in the ends. It was a lot of ends.

A few ladies on the Rav suggested keeping all the end scraps in something glass as decoration. I searched high and low, but came up empty with my existing vase supply, but I'm on the look out.

Wednesday was my first knitting class and I think it was a success! I learned a lot about how things are going to have to progress, but feel confident that my little knitters are going to be great!

It's Colorful up in Here!

2009-01-11T11:08:00.002-05:00

Those are just a sampling of the wonderful partial skeins and scraps of sock yarn I've received this week. For what?

I'm making Shelly Kang's Sock Yarn Blanket!!!

When I saw it on Ravelry I started thinking about how every time I knit a pair of socks, I always have a bit left over. Sometimes a pretty big bit. I thought I could easily make a blanket out of all my little balls.

Then I started cataloging what I have and discovered that I could do it, but my blanket would be pretty plain and have a lot of some yarns and very little of others. I joined a few enabling groups over on Ravelry and now the mailbox is a very colorful place!

I've also joined two swaps with goodies that will arrive later this month.

Tomorrow: photos of the first two finished rows! Providing I finish the second row. :)

FO: Just in the knick of time

2009-01-05T15:50:00.003-05:00

Pattern: Ampersand by Kirsten Kapur

Yarn: Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Mediumweight in Atomic #6

Needles: US Sz. 2.5 Addi Turbos, 2-16" circs.

My second pair of Ampersands and I couldn't be happier. This pattern is easy to memorize and creates a great fitting sock. A third pair may be in my future. :)

I bound these lovelies off on Dec. 31st thus meeting my 6 pair goal for 2008! It was a good year of sock knitting.

Put Your Feet Up
FO: Leyburn Socks
FO: Ampersand Socks
Boyfriend Jaywalkers
Sassy Birthday Socks
Just in the Nick of Time Ampersand Socks

Dear 2008 (Part 2)

2009-01-02T09:07:00.002-05:00

July is when things started to get unexpectedly exciting. Emily turned 2, I discovered new things to be allergic to, I broke my rib while Wayne was in Nicaragua and also managed a little knitting.

In August I went to the beach, made some huge life decisions and even though the first week only ended up being 2 days, Alison started Kindergarten.

September started off with an amazing FO, we left for Mexico and in our first week there we celebrated Alison's 6th birthday and I finished my first project in another country.

October was spent entirely in Mexico, which just made for more interesting things to write about. Like visiting scenic places, going to Nicaragua and having my heart broken for the people there, pila-ing lots of clothes and knitting calcetines.

In November I voted from Mexico, went on the grand adventure of trying to get my haircut with a pretty big language barrier, came home from Mexico and had a lovely Thanksgiving. O yeah, and I caught the cowl bug.

December brought my first cowl, a new job and a lovely Christmas with family and friends!

Thank you 2008 for all the blessings and memories you gave me. Thank you dear reader for sticking around, even when it got a little lame. I'm excited to see what 2009 has to offer!!

Dear 2008 (Part 1)

2008-12-31T23:43:00.003-05:00

You've been good to me in ways I could not have even imagined last December.

In January I saw my youngest sister marry the love of her life and got new floors!

In February, Alison wrestled an alligator, I finished some socks and my longest bike ride ever!

In March we celebrated Wayne and how much he loves us.

In April I made a Sweetheart, Alison made me laugh and I won some prizes!

In May I finished another pair of socks and Ali graduated Pre-K!

And in June I somehow managed to post 31 times! I celebrated my birthday, finished some socks, came in 2155th in a balloon race across the Internet, got the best haircut ever and spent a relaxing weekend at the beach.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T16:43:00.001-05:00

“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
‘Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.’”
Luke 2:1-14
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!!!

What are you listening to?

2008-12-22T21:03:00.002-05:00

My Christmas CD, which has been playing almost non-stop since the day after Thanksgiving, contains the following songs:

1. Carol of the Bells - Barenaked Ladies
2. Christmas/Sarajevo 12/24 - Trans Siberian Orchestra
3. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen - Barenaked Ladies, with Sarah McLachlan
4. Do They Know it's Christmas (Feed the World) - BAND AID
5. Carol of the Bells - Trans Siberian Orchestra
6. Jingle Bells - Barenaked Ladies
7. All I Want for Christmas is You - Mariah Carey
8. Give a Little Bit - Goo Goo Dolls
9. Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Bruce Springsteen
10. Christmas Canon Rock - Trans Siberian Orchestra
11. Breath of Heaven - Jessica Simpson

I've got a few more favorites on the iPod, but this CD has been my go-to collection of holiday music for the last few years. What's your favorite get-in-the-holiday-spirit tune??

Poser

2008-12-16T14:29:00.001-05:00

While some children chose to scream and cry in his face, Emily thought Santa deserved better. So she chose one pose and stuck with it.

Cacophonous Life

2008-12-15T19:29:00.001-05:00