I think...
...silly!
Nov 19, 2008
Nov 16, 2008
Lunch
Hi! I'm so glad you came through the market. Most of it is closed today, but there's a lot of fruit for sale there, under the umbrella. Have you had lunch? This is the same market where Pondside and I had lunch when she visited.
This afternoon for lunch, O and I are eating at El Rinconcito Ferrañafano. They specialize in typical foods from northern Peru, like you might find around Chiclayo and Ferrañafe and some live music, loudly and enthusiatically played, even though it's out of tune most of the time.
Come on inside the restaurant and have a seat:
Ahh, lunch is served:
I had the Pepián de Pato (Duck with pumpkin seed sauce) and rice. The usual bowl of ají is there with the red and green Limeño chili peppers.
O had Cau Cau...I can't handle this. Although the flavor is good, the cow's stomach fights with my stomach and the cow's gut is just a little bit stronger than mine. We part ways quickly, so I passed on this dish, even though it comes with a wonderful plate of rice and beans...if you have a stronger stomach than I do, I recommend this dish. But, if not, go for the pepián...it's much easier on the stomach, even though the duck is a tough old bird. 
The Rinconcito Trio:
Nov 15, 2008
Makes My Heart Tinkle...
I stumbled across this while net-surfing, and my daughter sent me a few more...
There are more, but I'll save them for another camera-less time.
Nov 8, 2008
A follow-up
Following up on the bullfighting post:
My curiousity led me a little farther down the bullfighting path, to youtube.com, where I did a search for bullfighting videos. Graphic to say the least. Since the billboard across the street names the featured matadores, I looked for Simpson, El Fandi, and Manzanares. Found them all. I think they are from Spain and that Peru is simply on their circuit when the bullfighting season opens up, similar to a rodeo circuit. After watching a youtube video of the ending of the bullfight, I know I would not be interested in attending. No links to the videos I watched are included here, because they turned my stomach. No need to share that. If you are interested, you can do the search on youtube.com and find all manner of bullfighting scenes.
I think I'll go back to Ferdinand.
My curiousity led me a little farther down the bullfighting path, to youtube.com, where I did a search for bullfighting videos. Graphic to say the least. Since the billboard across the street names the featured matadores, I looked for Simpson, El Fandi, and Manzanares. Found them all. I think they are from Spain and that Peru is simply on their circuit when the bullfighting season opens up, similar to a rodeo circuit. After watching a youtube video of the ending of the bullfight, I know I would not be interested in attending. No links to the videos I watched are included here, because they turned my stomach. No need to share that. If you are interested, you can do the search on youtube.com and find all manner of bullfighting scenes.
I think I'll go back to Ferdinand.
Not completely photo-less
Well, the camera came and went again, before I managed to get photos off the memory card. The card is here, sitting on the desk, but the camera has been loaned out once again. Methinks it's time to start camera shopping. Luckily, I have a few previously unpublished photos that I can trot out now.
Here's a little shot of Celeste, getting ready for school:
And a couple of shots from the park near my apartment building:
And an improvement, to keep the pigeons and rain out of our second floor hallway - a window, inspected and approved by our building engineer, Ms. Celeste:
No more pidgeons getting the first bite out of someone's breakfast bread!
Here's a little shot of Celeste, getting ready for school:
And a couple of shots from the park near my apartment building:
And an improvement, to keep the pigeons and rain out of our second floor hallway - a window, inspected and approved by our building engineer, Ms. Celeste:
No more pidgeons getting the first bite out of someone's breakfast bread!
Nov 2, 2008
bull fighting
Bull fighting season opened yesterday in Acho. There is a large billboard acros the street from where I live, advertising the opening.
It is a sport that causes a lot of controversy here in Peru, with its supporters and its detractors in conflict. Every Sunday, the billboard is de-faced and every Tuesday it is replaced with a brand new one. Both parties are determined. Still, when I think of bullfighting, what always comes to mind is Ferdinand the Bull. Here is a little more about Ferdinand and bullfighting in general.
"One of the most important bullfighting festivals in Latin America, the Feria Taurina del Señor de los Milagros takes place in Lima throughout the month of November.
The most famous matadores and bull ranches in the world compete for fame and glory in the Acho Plaza de Toros, a bullfighting arena erected in 1766 and rebuilt in 1945. People flock from all over the world to witness the bravado and grace of the bullfighters dancing against the bulls in the sand-covered arena. If you're interested in these things, it's the bullfighting experience of a lifetime. On the other hand, if you find the practice of bullfighting unpleasant, we suggest you steer well clear."
"There are two prizes awarded for the event, the Escapulario de Oro for the bravest and most skilful matador and the Escapulario de Plata for the best-presented and most impressive bull. It's doubtful whether the bulls get any prizes for disposing elegantly of the bullfighters.
Bullfighting is inextricably linked to the history and national identity of Peru. Since bulls were introduced shortly after the Spaniards first arrived, the spectacle of bull running has been a rallying point for young and old, rich and poor throughout the country. Shows used to be set up to celebrate visiting dignitaries from Spain, for royal birthdays, military victors and religious holidays."
(http://www.whatsonwhen.com)
Sometimes the bull gets the edge...
We have no plans to go. Looking at the billboard on the street, I thought the matador's hat was crocheted, which was the original impetus for writing this post. But as I researched during the writing, I discovered that it was not. but I did find out a lot about bull fighting in the process.
Nov 1, 2008
Right...
Your Autumn Test Results |
 You are a dynamic, vibrant person. You aren't afraid to pursue your passions. When you're happiest, you are outgoing and expressive . You love celebrations, and you enjoy showing off a little. You prefer change to come slowly. You need a long transition period when your life changes. You find abundance to be the most comforting thing in the world. You love shopping and having nice things. Your ideal day is spontaneous and surprising. You like to play things by ear, and you always end up doing something interesting. You tend to live in the moment. You enjoy whatever is going on, and you don't obsess over the past or future. |
Oct 28, 2008
I love your blog!
Susan, over at KitKatKnits, gave me this award! WooHoo! I'm tickled to pieces to receive this award. It makes my day!
So thrilled am I that I am passing this along to some other lucky bloggers:
Needles of Iron. This dedicated blogger has pledged to blog every day through Blogtoberfest, and what a great job she's done! November is nearly here and she'll be able to give her fingers a rest from typing!
Sheep At The Beach. Kary donates a percentage of her Etsy earnings to various dog rescues each year. Wow! And she also creates the gorgeous "Kitchen Sink Battz", that spin "like buttah".
Rani Knits. Randi illustrates her life and knitting with gorgeous pictures and the best sense of humor! Check her out and give Leo lots of kisses (even when he's chewing on her yarn).
Spindles and Spices. The Wild Tomato shares her recipes and embarrasses her dog, Mingus, in the best way - with good humor and a sense of fun that will keep you coming back...for cat hat patterns and excellent photos!
Boulderneigh Shetland Sheep. I have learned so much about Shetland sheep since I discovered this blog, and in the best way - the fun way! Michelle introduces her polled sheep with great photos and shares farm life with humor and caring. Don't miss this blog!
Maggie's Farm. Maggie writes what she feels and what she lives there on the farm in New York. She shares her life with LOTS and LOTS of sheep and goats, and her husband, Matt. Not one to hold back, Maggie tells it in a straightforward but sensitive manner, and is a great fiber friend!
Here are the rules for the award recipients if you want to play along (not required):
1. Please mention of the award on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. You must nominate at least 4 fellow bloggers for this award.
4. Add links to the recipients.
5. Leave a comment so the recipients know they have received an award.
Besides all this, I have been plying She Sells Sea Shells, which is soaking in the bath right now. So far, about 3.5 oz has given me 125 yards of worsted weight yarn. I'm planning a beret and fingerless mitts, if I get enough yardage. After that, I plan to take on a set of the famous "Kitchen Sink Battz" from Kary. Romney in a gorgeous pale teal with tussah silk accents. I'm aiming for double knit weight with this one.
Oct 27, 2008
Socks Socks Socks
Yeah! My second ever sock book has arrived!
I think the last sock book I may look for is Folk Socks. I don't think I need tons of sock books. I'm terrible at following patterns. I use them for inspiration, but always have my own modifications that I do to them, so I think this will do me for now.
Folk Socks is so tempting, though...
I think the last sock book I may look for is Folk Socks. I don't think I need tons of sock books. I'm terrible at following patterns. I use them for inspiration, but always have my own modifications that I do to them, so I think this will do me for now.
Folk Socks is so tempting, though...
Oct 26, 2008
Oct 21, 2008
Oct 20, 2008
Not as odd as last time, but...
I should carry my camera with me all the time. On Saturday, a man got on the bus to "work". First, he withdrew a tablespoon from his shirt pocket and inserted the handle into his nose, although not very far. He apologised for not having a second one to insert into the other side to make a balanced appearance. This was not too impressive for the bus passengers, after all, we'd already seen something similar one time before. It must have been obvious to this man, because he announced that he would begin the difficult task of singing with a spoon up his nose. Which he did. The money collection for this man was scant...I can't help but think if he'd just had the second spoon...
Following this a blind man got on the bus and quietly asked for money. Change purses opened up and this one got off the bus about $10 richer.
At the next corner, two women got on. One had a guitar and the other had a pair of spoons, not to push up her nose, fortunately. They did sing a rousing medley of Huayno classics. The crowd went wild and sang along and applauded, and then coughed up additional pocket change for these two.
Below is an example of typical Huayno dance and music:
On Sunday, Celeste and I went walking about 7 am. We passed from the middle class neighborhood of Jesus Maria into the more affluent San Isidro. In front of a posh apartment building, we saw 4 young men, impeccably dressed and obviously completely soused. I noticed two neighborhood security guards (Serenazgo) watching them quietly. They were hailing taxis. Each time a taxi drew near, they would turn their backs to the taxi and drop their finely sewn drawers around their ankles, giving the taxi driver a close-up view of four rich bums. Inevitably the driver would shift gears and continue on, while the 4 drunks cursed and laughed. Finally, after the third episode of this, the Serenazgos waited till the pants were around the ankles again and then moved in. They snagged these four fools and flung them into the back of their pick-up trunk, none too gently. After I went home, I told O about what I'd seen, and asked if the drunks would be taken to jail or what. He said they would most likely be driven home by the Serenazgos if they were able to identify themselves and give an address. If not, they would probably spend their morning riding around, hand-cuffed in the back of the truck with their pants around their ankles, till they sobered up enough to say where they lived.
Other than that, here's what I've been doing:
This is a sock that I've been making for my daughter. So far, there's only one. It's made of superwash merino in the colorway "Squidge" that I got from Black Ethel Cash. I like the look of it and I think that my girl will too. For Christmas!
And more spinning:
This is Bundaflicka Tweed in "Earth".
And finally, the avocado tree outgrew her spot in the apartment and needed a break from the Celeste love, so here is Annie Avocado with her best friend, Celeste, in the hall, where Annie now lives:
Following this a blind man got on the bus and quietly asked for money. Change purses opened up and this one got off the bus about $10 richer.
At the next corner, two women got on. One had a guitar and the other had a pair of spoons, not to push up her nose, fortunately. They did sing a rousing medley of Huayno classics. The crowd went wild and sang along and applauded, and then coughed up additional pocket change for these two.
Below is an example of typical Huayno dance and music:
On Sunday, Celeste and I went walking about 7 am. We passed from the middle class neighborhood of Jesus Maria into the more affluent San Isidro. In front of a posh apartment building, we saw 4 young men, impeccably dressed and obviously completely soused. I noticed two neighborhood security guards (Serenazgo) watching them quietly. They were hailing taxis. Each time a taxi drew near, they would turn their backs to the taxi and drop their finely sewn drawers around their ankles, giving the taxi driver a close-up view of four rich bums. Inevitably the driver would shift gears and continue on, while the 4 drunks cursed and laughed. Finally, after the third episode of this, the Serenazgos waited till the pants were around the ankles again and then moved in. They snagged these four fools and flung them into the back of their pick-up trunk, none too gently. After I went home, I told O about what I'd seen, and asked if the drunks would be taken to jail or what. He said they would most likely be driven home by the Serenazgos if they were able to identify themselves and give an address. If not, they would probably spend their morning riding around, hand-cuffed in the back of the truck with their pants around their ankles, till they sobered up enough to say where they lived.
Other than that, here's what I've been doing:
This is a sock that I've been making for my daughter. So far, there's only one. It's made of superwash merino in the colorway "Squidge" that I got from Black Ethel Cash. I like the look of it and I think that my girl will too. For Christmas!
And more spinning:
This is Bundaflicka Tweed in "Earth".
And finally, the avocado tree outgrew her spot in the apartment and needed a break from the Celeste love, so here is Annie Avocado with her best friend, Celeste, in the hall, where Annie now lives:
Oct 16, 2008
Yeay! It's here!
My first book about hand spinning has arrived! It tok an incredibly long time to come through the mail, but at last,I have a reference for spinning. Several people have told me that this is a coffee table book with great pictures but no real written content of value. Well, I haven't read the whole thing, but I do like the first portion, where the author gives illustrated instructions on various techniques and explains terms. She explains basics of fiber prep, gives explanations through the spinning process and plying methods. The rest of the book is devoted to "homework", project to try with a particular yarn style to achieve. Personally, I like this book. Yes, it has lots of photos of different fibers and examples of finished yarns that are the objects of the project lessons, and it gives me the feel of being free to experiment, and if my yarn turns out different than the picture of the target yarn, then it's no big deal. I like that.
Oct 14, 2008
Work stuff and a Celeste pic
Every month for a year, new teachers at the ICPNA are taped while teaching a class. We can choose which session we want to be recorded teaching, but afterwards, we have to write a critique, in which we identify the strengths and weaknesses of our own teaching techniques. It is for our use only, so no one watches us during this time. At first, I thought I might want to post part of my recorded sessions here on the blog, but luckily I haven't figured out how to do so. I say "luckily" because every month I am increasingly more critical of myself. It's a very humbling thing to see myself in the midst of a session that doesn't go as expected.
Every month, we are also evaluated by some member of the staff, each month a different person, so we never know exactly what to expect. It's a little bit of a stressor for me until the evaluation is over. After the eval, we have a feed back session, which is good for me. Because I'm very critical of myself, I always think of something that I could have done better, and these feedbacks give me ideas about how. While I don't enjoy being evaluated every single month (personally, I think that monthly evaluations are overkill), they do have value.
And, because it's October and Halloween is approaching, Celeste has been wearing her devil dog look:
Every month, we are also evaluated by some member of the staff, each month a different person, so we never know exactly what to expect. It's a little bit of a stressor for me until the evaluation is over. After the eval, we have a feed back session, which is good for me. Because I'm very critical of myself, I always think of something that I could have done better, and these feedbacks give me ideas about how. While I don't enjoy being evaluated every single month (personally, I think that monthly evaluations are overkill), they do have value.
And, because it's October and Halloween is approaching, Celeste has been wearing her devil dog look:
Oct 12, 2008
Louhi Coat
While goofing off on Ravelry, I found this pattern and OMG, is it gorgeous! I wanna knit it! But, I doubt I will ever make it happen. I think it will involve too much yarn for me to realistically spin, and I don't know that I have that much fiber anyway. Three thousand three hundred yards, and in worsted weight yarn! Wow. Hmmm. It might take me a year to knit.
I saved the pattern and put a link to it on the sidebar, maybe just for inspiration, and maybe I can use elements of the patteern in other projects.
I saved the pattern and put a link to it on the sidebar, maybe just for inspiration, and maybe I can use elements of the patteern in other projects.
Oct 11, 2008
Waiting for Inspiration...
The week is over, finally. I have classes six days a week, and at the end of the day on Saturday, I'm whupped. My apartment is dirty and the dog in the middle of my unmade bed (thank God she's not shedding at the moment). Tomorrow I have a student at 2 pm, and then I think I may take myself off to the movies. I have no idea what is playing these days, but I need a little break. I've been spinning some this week, trying to get my yarn done for the Mystery shawl knit along, which ended this week (and NO, I haven't even started yet.) I guess there's no big hurry now, since it's all done, so I'll just spin along until I manage to get 1100 yards spun up. My Ranch socks are finished and I'm fumbling around right now, looking for a new project to start in place of the socks. I tried some fingerless mitts this afternoon, but ended up ripping them out. I tried Le Slouch, but it was a no-go. I need a fun little project to carry along to work with me. Ideas?
Remember the camera that O lent to his friend? Well...NO it's not back yet, so we are picture-less yet another week. I may need to go buy my own camera and not let O touch it. If he does, he will surely lend it out to the next "friend" that asks. Maybe tomorrow I'll go camera shopping, instead of to the movies. We'll see. In the meantime, I'm going back to spinning. I think I have about 100 yards done now. Only 1000 more to go...........
Remember the camera that O lent to his friend? Well...NO it's not back yet, so we are picture-less yet another week. I may need to go buy my own camera and not let O touch it. If he does, he will surely lend it out to the next "friend" that asks. Maybe tomorrow I'll go camera shopping, instead of to the movies. We'll see. In the meantime, I'm going back to spinning. I think I have about 100 yards done now. Only 1000 more to go...........
Oct 7, 2008
hmmmm....
I wonder if this means that the reader has to be a genius to figure out what I'm trying to say here...
The Painted Pig
A posting about books and libraries by Needles of Iron has me thinking about books...kid's books, but books all the same.
When I was a kid, I remember reading a beautiful book called "The Painted Pig". It was about a ceramic pig in Mexico that came to life one night. Along with the pig, I believe a painted rooster also came to life. A little girl owned both the pig and the rooster, I think. The story is about the hi jinx of this pair. Does anyone remember it? I've been thinking about this story for months...that one, and a wonderful children's story called "Pussy Willows". I think now "Pussy Willows" is available as one of those Little Golden Books, but ours was a giant picture book with those big kitty eyes and amazing pictures that capture a child's imagination and draw her right into the story. The picture below is not what was on the original story book, but it is painted in a similar style.
Here in Peru, the average person doesn't read much, usually for business or education, but rarely for pleasure. As I think about these children's stories, I feel so bad for those children whose parents don't read stories to them! I did find some wonderful Peruvian folktales for children in the Metro supermarket, however, so someone is reading them.
Oct 5, 2008
a new project
I've decided to spin up some yarn for a stole. I've joined the Mystery Stole 4 group and they are knitting away, and I'm here spinning the yarn for it. I need about 1100 yards to complete it. I'm way behind because of the spinning. Hmmmm...
Anyway, it's a beaded lace stole. I've decided to use this wool:
It's a little hard to tell, but this is a light brown wool with noils of color scattered throughout. Maggie sent it to me, and I think it's about time I get cracking on spinning it! I also have beads for it - various shades of green and yellow seed beads - it's springtime here, and I have the urge to sow this new light brown garden.
Hopefully, the camera will return tomorrow. O lent it to a friend two weeks ago and they've been very slow about returning it. In fact, if I hadn't grumbled about it today, I doubt the camera would ever find it's way home. People here have a habit of just keeping things, and when the owner asks for it's return, somehow it was lent to another friend, who lent it to another friend, who thought it was a gift, etc etc etc. You get the idea. So, hopefully, tomorrow I'll have a camera and be able to put up some new photos of what I've been doing lately.
Anyway, it's a beaded lace stole. I've decided to use this wool:
It's a little hard to tell, but this is a light brown wool with noils of color scattered throughout. Maggie sent it to me, and I think it's about time I get cracking on spinning it! I also have beads for it - various shades of green and yellow seed beads - it's springtime here, and I have the urge to sow this new light brown garden.
Hopefully, the camera will return tomorrow. O lent it to a friend two weeks ago and they've been very slow about returning it. In fact, if I hadn't grumbled about it today, I doubt the camera would ever find it's way home. People here have a habit of just keeping things, and when the owner asks for it's return, somehow it was lent to another friend, who lent it to another friend, who thought it was a gift, etc etc etc. You get the idea. So, hopefully, tomorrow I'll have a camera and be able to put up some new photos of what I've been doing lately.
Sep 27, 2008
New Projects on the spindle
I've begun spinning She Sells Sea Shells. The target projects are socks and "Le Slouch", a beret by Wendy Bernard. I'm looking forward to these projects. They should be quick and relaxing, once the yarn is spun up. I hope to have enough yarn to complete both projects.
"She Sells Sea Shells" is a colorway from Enchanted Knoll Farm. According to Josette, proprietress of Enchanted Knoll Farm, it's a "blend of rose/shell pink, light gold undulating to dark brown and cream mixture of a decidedly feminine but very earthy color array. When spun, the colors mingle, lighten, deepen, and blend into varying shades of themselves, which reminds me of the rainbow of colors inside a sea shell. There's some dark corriedale/merino as well as a healthy dollup of rose targhee and some gorgeous tussah silk."
I know virtually nothing about sheep and their wool. What I do know is that the blend of the different wools makes a fun and interesting spinning experience for me. I've spent most of my spinning this year with superwash merino, blue-faced leichester, and Romney blends, but all in their separate batts. The combination in these "Sea Shells" batts is everything wrapped into one batt, but not so totally blended that everything fades into everything else. If you are spinner and you enjoy interesting and beautiful colorways and fiber blends, think about this one.
I'll post pictures as I progress through the spinning.
"She Sells Sea Shells" is a colorway from Enchanted Knoll Farm. According to Josette, proprietress of Enchanted Knoll Farm, it's a "blend of rose/shell pink, light gold undulating to dark brown and cream mixture of a decidedly feminine but very earthy color array. When spun, the colors mingle, lighten, deepen, and blend into varying shades of themselves, which reminds me of the rainbow of colors inside a sea shell. There's some dark corriedale/merino as well as a healthy dollup of rose targhee and some gorgeous tussah silk."
I know virtually nothing about sheep and their wool. What I do know is that the blend of the different wools makes a fun and interesting spinning experience for me. I've spent most of my spinning this year with superwash merino, blue-faced leichester, and Romney blends, but all in their separate batts. The combination in these "Sea Shells" batts is everything wrapped into one batt, but not so totally blended that everything fades into everything else. If you are spinner and you enjoy interesting and beautiful colorways and fiber blends, think about this one.
I'll post pictures as I progress through the spinning.
Hair styles among the masses
I love going to work. It gives me an opportunity to observe people. This month, I had to observe a Basic 1 class - the class for adults who are just beginning to learn English. Most of them were teenagers and they take their fashion statements more seriously than their studies.
One young man came to class every day with his longish black hair carefully blow-dried forward to cover his eyes. I'm not sure exactly how he managed to read or navigate through the hallways, because I could never see anything of his face above the upper lip. He was a tall, very thin person who seemed to be wearing his big brother's pants. His nails were quite long and he always wore black. To complete his look, he topped his black outfits with a hooded black sweatshirt, always worn with the hood up, even in class.
A very popular hair style among the young men is a pseudo mohawk. The sides are not shaved, but the long hair on the top of the head is pasted up into a tall ridge with a lot of stiff hair goop. When I see this style, I immediately think "pin-head", but have yet to meet a real pinhead. Most are very nice, only experimenting with styles.
Still another young man wore his hair carefully "tousled" in kind of a swirl around his head. The hair rebelled and escaped the swirl in places, sticking out straight and sometimes hitting the person sitting next to him as he turned his head.
One of my own tall, thin students arrived with his shaggy ringlets pushed up into a curly mushroom on the top of his head, using a girl's plastic circular headband like my daughter used to use when she was a teenager. The curly mushroom settled between two heavier, shorter pinheads.
I thought the girls were fashionistas, but it's really the guys who are into their "look", especially when it comes to hair.
One young man came to class every day with his longish black hair carefully blow-dried forward to cover his eyes. I'm not sure exactly how he managed to read or navigate through the hallways, because I could never see anything of his face above the upper lip. He was a tall, very thin person who seemed to be wearing his big brother's pants. His nails were quite long and he always wore black. To complete his look, he topped his black outfits with a hooded black sweatshirt, always worn with the hood up, even in class.
A very popular hair style among the young men is a pseudo mohawk. The sides are not shaved, but the long hair on the top of the head is pasted up into a tall ridge with a lot of stiff hair goop. When I see this style, I immediately think "pin-head", but have yet to meet a real pinhead. Most are very nice, only experimenting with styles.
Still another young man wore his hair carefully "tousled" in kind of a swirl around his head. The hair rebelled and escaped the swirl in places, sticking out straight and sometimes hitting the person sitting next to him as he turned his head.
One of my own tall, thin students arrived with his shaggy ringlets pushed up into a curly mushroom on the top of his head, using a girl's plastic circular headband like my daughter used to use when she was a teenager. The curly mushroom settled between two heavier, shorter pinheads.
I thought the girls were fashionistas, but it's really the guys who are into their "look", especially when it comes to hair.
Sep 26, 2008
24 Tips For a Better Life
I saw this while surfing other blogs and liked it, so I posted it here:
24 TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE
1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.
3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement,
'My purpose is to__________ today.'
4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a
college kid with a maxed out charge card.
9. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
12. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
14. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'
17. Forgive everyone for everything.
18. What other people think of you is none of your business.
19. God heals almost everything.
20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends
will. Stay in touch.
22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I
am thankful for__________. Today I accomplished _________.
24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
24 TIPS FOR A BETTER LIFE
1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.
3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement,
'My purpose is to__________ today.'
4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a
college kid with a maxed out charge card.
9. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
12. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
14. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'
17. Forgive everyone for everything.
18. What other people think of you is none of your business.
19. God heals almost everything.
20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends
will. Stay in touch.
22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I
am thankful for__________. Today I accomplished _________.
24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
Sep 25, 2008
Sep 23, 2008
Sep 16, 2008
Tales From the Fiber Stash and a Little Hand Spinning
More spinning fluff and stuff, people...that means I have to work for my required daily allowance of being a lap dog. I've found a spot on the bed and settled in for a long afternoon...there's more fuzz in baggies than I have on my whole body!
Bundlaflicka Tweed in purple.
Something Red, from Carolina Homespun (a gift from the Wild Tomato!), on a Zebisis Designs spindle.
Old Country Roses, from Butterfly Girl Designs.
She Sells Sea Shells, from Enchanted Knoll Farm
Romney Blend "Hold You in My Dreams", from The Knotty Sheep
Bundlaflicka Tweed in purple.
Something Red, from Carolina Homespun (a gift from the Wild Tomato!), on a Zebisis Designs spindle.
Old Country Roses, from Butterfly Girl Designs.
She Sells Sea Shells, from Enchanted Knoll Farm
Romney Blend "Hold You in My Dreams", from The Knotty Sheep
Sep 15, 2008
Socks and news from Wooly Works!
Take a look at what's new over at the Wooly Works! They've got new babies! They've also got alpaca fleeces of all colors and mohair fleeces in white, rose gray, and black, and do custom processing and blends, so get yerself over there and ask about your favorite alpaca fiber!
These are my Odyssey Rock Ranch socks, done in the knit-a-long. Aren't they pretty? everything is 100% alpaca, except for the heels, toes, and cuff decorations. Soooo comfy and soft! You need this yarn! Get it here!
This is "The Ranch Sock", modified a little from the Odyssey Rock Ranch pattern. This sock is done in handpainted alpaca from Odyssey Rock Ranch, but with toes, heels, and cuff decorations done in my handspun with BFL fiber from Maggie's Farm, Inc. I only have one finished, with the second one on the needles.
These are my Odyssey Rock Ranch socks, done in the knit-a-long. Aren't they pretty? everything is 100% alpaca, except for the heels, toes, and cuff decorations. Soooo comfy and soft! You need this yarn! Get it here!
This is "The Ranch Sock", modified a little from the Odyssey Rock Ranch pattern. This sock is done in handpainted alpaca from Odyssey Rock Ranch, but with toes, heels, and cuff decorations done in my handspun with BFL fiber from Maggie's Farm, Inc. I only have one finished, with the second one on the needles.
Sep 14, 2008
Book on the way
Yesterday I got notice that my first ever spinning book has been shipped. Yeay! I've been spinning and spinning, but I'm mostly self-taught. Now maybe I'll get a few pointers and instructions on new techniques to try. I've read the reviews on this book, both pro and con, and if nothing else, nearly all say that this book is great for inspiration. Some say there is great instruction and info in the front of the book; others say that it's a coffee table book with great pictures. Whatever it is, I'll be sure to get something out of it. I'm a visual learner and love lots of pictures.
Sep 6, 2008
Noches Criollas
Tonight we went to La Noche Criolla at the club just down the street from us. There was la musica criolla, which is a musical result mixture of Spanish, Quechua, and African influences. You hear it on the Peruvian coast most often. It's beautiful, emotional, moving music. It makes you want to dance, even if you're not a dancer. Eva Ayllon is a very popular Peruvian singer and musician, who specializes in la musica criolla.
We also saw an example of the fabulously romantic Marinera dance, in the style from Piura. Piura is a Peruvian city on the west coast, up near the Ecuadorian border. The Marinera is a beautiful dance, no matter where it is done, but there are various styles. The Marinera trademark is the handkerchief, twirling and flying through the air, clasped between two fingers of the dancing couple. No matter where the influence is from, typically the Marinera is danced with La Dama and El Caballero (the lady and the gentleman). La Dama is usually barefoot, with long and lacy flowing skirts. El Caballero usually wears a broad-brimmed sombrero, white clothing with a colorful cumberbund, portrayed as a horseman. In fact, in Trujillo, the caballero is often dancing while horseback. The Peruvian Paso horse is often used in this dance. Hankies flying, partners never touching but never more than a breath away, the Marinera is a seduction set to music. The Piuran Marinera does not use the horse, lucky for us, and was danced to a slow and romantic Spanish ballad. Something not to be missed.
We also saw an example of the fabulously romantic Marinera dance, in the style from Piura. Piura is a Peruvian city on the west coast, up near the Ecuadorian border. The Marinera is a beautiful dance, no matter where it is done, but there are various styles. The Marinera trademark is the handkerchief, twirling and flying through the air, clasped between two fingers of the dancing couple. No matter where the influence is from, typically the Marinera is danced with La Dama and El Caballero (the lady and the gentleman). La Dama is usually barefoot, with long and lacy flowing skirts. El Caballero usually wears a broad-brimmed sombrero, white clothing with a colorful cumberbund, portrayed as a horseman. In fact, in Trujillo, the caballero is often dancing while horseback. The Peruvian Paso horse is often used in this dance. Hankies flying, partners never touching but never more than a breath away, the Marinera is a seduction set to music. The Piuran Marinera does not use the horse, lucky for us, and was danced to a slow and romantic Spanish ballad. Something not to be missed.
Sep 4, 2008
Knitting English
Yesterday O enrolled in English classes at the institute where I used to teach. These classes are only on Saturdays, so the course advance is pretty aggressive and he'll have to pay attention to keep up.
Now, you might think that after being married to an English speaker for 5 years, that O might speak English pretty well by now, but think again. His ideas were that since I am here and we are together, he could just learn English any time, without any schedule or effort on his part. Maybe it would all just soak in somehow, maybe by osmosis. And that's been true for some of it. But there comes a time when the easy part is over and some effort has to be made. In order to ensure that he makes an effort, he had to PAY. When he got hit in the pocket, then he began to pay attention. His first class is on Saturday. I hope he does as well as he thinks he will. He glanced through the first book and declared it to be too easy. We'll see. At least it might get him talking and practicing. Then we can play SCRABBLE! WOO HOO!
In other news, I finished my Odyssey Rock Ranch socks this week and they are fabulous! If you have never worn alpaca on your feet, you need to. I started a second pair yesterday, and look forward to finishing them up in about 2 weeks, if my schedule stays the same as it is right now. Unfortunately, the camera batteries crapped out (as usual) just as I was taking the picture, so I'll have to wait for new ones.
"The Eclectic Sole" arrived in the mail yesterday, and I'm tickled with all the inspiration! It's my first sock book! None of the socks in this book are long enough in the cuff for me - I don't care much at all for short little anklets - but they all can be modified. Heaven knows I can't just knit a pattern...I have to tweak it somehow, so I'll be tweaking away to make longer cuffs!
Now, you might think that after being married to an English speaker for 5 years, that O might speak English pretty well by now, but think again. His ideas were that since I am here and we are together, he could just learn English any time, without any schedule or effort on his part. Maybe it would all just soak in somehow, maybe by osmosis. And that's been true for some of it. But there comes a time when the easy part is over and some effort has to be made. In order to ensure that he makes an effort, he had to PAY. When he got hit in the pocket, then he began to pay attention. His first class is on Saturday. I hope he does as well as he thinks he will. He glanced through the first book and declared it to be too easy. We'll see. At least it might get him talking and practicing. Then we can play SCRABBLE! WOO HOO!
In other news, I finished my Odyssey Rock Ranch socks this week and they are fabulous! If you have never worn alpaca on your feet, you need to. I started a second pair yesterday, and look forward to finishing them up in about 2 weeks, if my schedule stays the same as it is right now. Unfortunately, the camera batteries crapped out (as usual) just as I was taking the picture, so I'll have to wait for new ones.
"The Eclectic Sole" arrived in the mail yesterday, and I'm tickled with all the inspiration! It's my first sock book! None of the socks in this book are long enough in the cuff for me - I don't care much at all for short little anklets - but they all can be modified. Heaven knows I can't just knit a pattern...I have to tweak it somehow, so I'll be tweaking away to make longer cuffs!
Sep 1, 2008
My New Buddy
See my new little buddy over there on the side bar? His name is Pachacutec, after somebody who was back in Incan history...somebody famous enough to have a street named after him, but I haven't done my homework, so I don't know who he is yet. Anyway, my little Pachecutie loves to have his head rubbed, so just but the cursor on his face and give him a good rub. He'll follow you wherever your cursor goes. Isn't he a good boy? If you click on him, he'll talk to you in that llama "hmmm" voice and you can feed him by clicking on the "m" in the lower right hand corner of his box. Don't be shy! Play with him! He loves the company!
You too can have a little cutie like this or choose a different pet. Just click on the bottom of the box where it says, "adopt your own virtual pet".
You too can have a little cutie like this or choose a different pet. Just click on the bottom of the box where it says, "adopt your own virtual pet".
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