tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87780092526965843412024-03-13T17:11:50.122-04:00Gambit's ViewFrom the highs and the lows, knitting, crocheting, living, cooking, life in the slow lane.MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-65369859524932964912012-03-21T17:36:00.000-04:002012-03-21T17:36:40.332-04:00<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, I know.. it's been a long long time since my last post. Life is funny sometimes, it sends you down a road you had no idea you'd be taking until it happens. So are things in my life.</div>
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Through a series of events that began last summer, I have found myself making some changes to my life, good changes, scary changes, changes that have been long awaiting, and changes that even though are scary, are meant to be.</div>
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It started last summer with a sheet of paper being pushed into my hands by a librarian. She urged me to sign up for a free university level class called Voicing Hamilton. (I know I've mentioned this class in a<b> </b><a href="http://gambitsview.blogspot.ca/2011/10/voicing-hamilton.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">previous post</a>)</div>
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I was one of the chosen to attend the class and as <a href="http://gambitsview.blogspot.ca/2011/10/voicing-hamilton-revisited.html" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">this post</a> shows, I loved the experience! As the classes progressed, I had to decide what my project would be about. What finally became my choice was the history of the native peoples of the area before and after the Europeans arrived up until today. I originally thought I'd write about it, but the more I researched the subject, the more I felt that I had to illustrate my findings. I had done traditional pictograph drawings in the past and was familiar with the method, so that became my medium of expression. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6vXaFRISK8g/T0xPrMk0suI/AAAAAAAAC8A/DYI6QCzbyik/s1600/DSC09794+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="378" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6vXaFRISK8g/T0xPrMk0suI/AAAAAAAAC8A/DYI6QCzbyik/s400/DSC09794+%25283%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waters Shining Brightly (Hamilton)</td></tr>
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I could not afford a real deer hide so went searching the various fabric stores on Ottawa street for a substitute and finally came across this fabric in a upholstery store. The method I used was circular story telling but I pushed it one further by interlinking the various circular stories to make them a continuous story. I also made both wampum belts and the maps as well as all the babiche (I crocheted tan yarn into thin rope for lashings). The pole was a 15 year old cedar bough that my teacher had saved in his garage for a purpose he did not know but figured it would become apparent in time... and it did.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGIFEKzTc9s/T2pBc8DTX4I/AAAAAAAADB8/F7gHsmlSyaE/s1600/DSC09798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGIFEKzTc9s/T2pBc8DTX4I/AAAAAAAADB8/F7gHsmlSyaE/s200/DSC09798.JPG" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the handmade book</td></tr>
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Even though I had intended on doing a written project originally, I still ended up adding a written component in the form of a book with the various pictographs explained as well as the wampum belts, the maps and the Tree of Peace depicted on the hide. </div>
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Once the hide was cut and suspended, I developed a bad case of blank canvas heebeejeebees. I was terrified of applying paint to canvas and making a mistake and not being able to fix it. I asked my spirit to help me get past this stage fright and finally it did pass. I also ended up letting my spirit guide my hand as to which pictograph I used, and how I used it. Any other way refused to work. I'm glad I allowed my spirit to guide my hand as I feel it produced a superior piece that spoke its message to many people in different ways and for that I am thankful.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0QHVSUdwrfM/T2pBasvefyI/AAAAAAAADB0/5ZWh7kGsqFM/s1600/DSC09796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0QHVSUdwrfM/T2pBasvefyI/AAAAAAAADB0/5ZWh7kGsqFM/s400/DSC09796.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waters Shining Brightly</td></tr>
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Graduation night came and went in December, the end of the class, but not the end of my personal voyage. I was asked to give the closing remarks at the graduation. Again, I allowed my spirit to guide me while I wrote my speech. After the speech, many came to me and told me they loved what I said. I was glad that I could send the message out for others to receive, that this program is the answer to so many people who have never had the opportunity to attend university. </div>
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January 2012 brought an invitation for the students of the class to display their projects at a local coffee house. In turn this brought an invitation to speak to a group of elderly who meet at the coffee house about my project and the program. This was followed by an invitation to speak to the university alumni alongside the professor who taught the class which was well received. And since then, I've been asked to do a guest blog post for the end of April, and also to speak to a group of women on the occasion of Women's Day after the celebratory dinner (the occasion was delayed). I've also been invited to sit on the steering committee for the McMaster Discovery Program which I've accepted and I look forward to contributing to the continued success of this program. More invitations to display our art pieces have come, the next to be at the central branch of the Hamilton Public Library beginning of April in time for the Art Crawl. Again, I look forward to relating the history of the native peoples in and around Hamilton to as many as I can. </div>
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I came away from this program with a special friendship, one that I had not expected but am grateful for. One which I think surprised both parties but was also acknowledged as a natural progression from the class. I also came away from this class with several new friends with which I have kept in contact. And last but not least, I came away with a renewed love of learning, a renewed sense of wonder at finding new knowledge, of exploring areas of study that I had given up on or never knew about. I also came away with a new sense of value, that I have a voice, that I matter and that I can be a student and do what I want. And all this is leading me towards finding out how I can go to university as a part time student. The field I'm interested in is Indigenous Studies, to continue my journey finding out who I am as a Métis woman. </div>
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<br />MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-48402048785693887152011-12-25T15:36:00.000-05:002011-12-25T15:36:26.127-05:00Life's blessings<div style="text-align: justify;">
Life is full of blessings, sometimes you have to look a little harder to find them.</div>
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Such has been the case for this year's Christmas for us.</div>
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Being on assistance meant not having anything for Christmas since we had no money to spend. <a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/616knDVViKL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU15_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/616knDVViKL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU15_.jpg" width="200" /></a>But
circumstances, friends, family brought home to us that the true
Christmas is having friends and family and appreciating them. We already
knew that, but we needed a good solid nudge to be reminded.</div>
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My darling sister soul gave us some very thoughtful gifts, of which my favorites are the book <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Crochet-Master-Class-Projects-Crocheters/dp/0307586537/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324843826&sr=8-1" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Crochet Master Class</a> edited by Jean Leinhauser whom we lost this year. A great loss to her family, friends and the crochet indie design industry.</div>
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I
first came across this book at our local library. Fell in love with it
and it was moved to the top of my crochet wish list! And now, lucky me,
I have it thanks to my darling sister! She also gave me a second book, <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Bring-Colour-Crochet-Multi-Coloured-Squares/dp/1863514147/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324844091&sr=8-1" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Bring Colour to crochet</a><span style="color: blue;">.</span> A beautiful collection of stitch patterns done in colours that make each pop off the page!</div>
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After
those, a new windup toy! Yes, silly things please me such as small wind
up toys. This latest addition to my growing collection is a Santa Claus
riding an old fashioned train. Love it! :)</div>
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My husbands favorite was the Belgian chocolate letter of course! quickly followed by new socks and warm mittens. </div>
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Then
from a sweet friend we received some much needed supplies (paper
towels, tp & tissues)... the super soft expensive ones! Two of her
gifts also pleased my husband to no ends, Belgian chocolate truffles and
cookies!</div>
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I
also received windups from her! One is of a cute penguin and the other
is a Santa and both were lovingly put to bed in a super cute Winnie the
Pooh gift box. Love love love them!</div>
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And
a surprise came to our door earlier this week. Someone I got to know in
the class I was taking this past fall received a turkey as a gift from
her job, but she already had more turkeys than she knew what to do with.
She offered it to us! So sitting in my freezer waiting for New Years`
is a lovely 15 lbs turkey! A most pleasant surprise since our hamper
from the Salvation Army held potatoes, cabbage, squash, peas/carrots,
but no meat. So there is our meat! :)</div>
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So
for all those who despair and feel that this season has let them down,
consider that there are people out there a lot worse off than you are.
This season has certainly reminded us to be thankful for small blessings
and wonderful friends.</div>
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So
to all my friends, family, crocheters and knitters around the world; I
wish you all a Merry Christmas (or a Merry Celebration of your choice)
and keep the faith in your heart. When things look at their bleakest,
open your eyes, look around and reach out, ask for help, you matter and
that is the most important thing to remind yourself of.</div>
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<br />MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-20342945474277266392011-11-03T12:15:00.000-04:002011-11-03T12:15:18.851-04:00CBC's 75th anniversary - Childhood Memories<div style="text-align: justify;">
November 2nd was the 75th anniversary of the CBC. Part of The National's news broadcast was a look back at the shows that people watched.</div>
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I had completely forgotten about these childhood shows until I saw clips of them. A flood of memories reminded me of the black and white TV we watched during breakfast, supper and the evenings. At that time, the TV was in the large farm kitchen, the better for my mother to watch over my brother and I while she did dishes, cooked and cleaned.</div>
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Most Canadians know The Friendly Giant, and Mr Dressup. But for the most part, only french speaking Canadians remember these 60's shows.</div>
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Bobino et Bobinette<br />
A show about a brother and sister, the brother always good, the sister, not so good. He would help her out of whatever scrape she got herself into with lesson learned.<br />
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Pépinot<br />
A puppet with his friend the bear who would only have one word menum menum. Today's generation would think we were nuts to love this show LOL<br />
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Fanfreluche<br />
A doll who sat on a bit chair with a book of stories with a lesson learned from each. I watched part of an episode and can't fathom for the life of me what I saw in this show. LOL<br />
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La Souris Verte<br />
Dix moutons Neuf moineaux Huit marmottes
Sept lapins Six canards Cinq fourmis Quatre chats Trois poussins Deux
belettes Et une souris Une souris verte! This was the intro song.<br />
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Sol et Gobelet<br />
Two of the most hilarious characters ever seen. The show was live and full of ad libs which meant the studio cameras had to adapt quickly.<br />
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Ultraman<br />
A Japanese show about a hero who fought invaders. Yes, even then I was a nerd and watched sci-fi LOL<br />
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I know most english speaking readers will have no clue about these shows. It's ok, I look at english children's shows from back then and don't get it :)<br />
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<br />MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-89672268067421008242011-10-30T14:59:00.000-04:002011-10-30T15:02:20.061-04:00Voicing Hamilton revisited<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday I had my third class at the library and it was fantastic. I'm
absolutely rediscovering the enjoyment of learning and attending school
that I had forgotten how much I loved. But I also absolutely
appreciate and love not being harassed by ignorant/petty/bigoted
students who parroted their parent's views on metis children. </div>
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The morning was spent listening to a short lecture by Daniel and then
interacting with the author of one of the textbooks we received at the beginning of the class. I
finally appreciate poetry in a way I never did as a teenage student. I
also figured out why my appreciation has changed, experience, maturity.
It's amazing how your mind suddenly finds relations and understanding
where in the past, poetry was just words that didn't make a whole lot of
sense and defied explanation as to their usefulness.</div>
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Once again, an amazing delicious lunch was served. I did not catch who had organized it, but kudos to them. It was appreciated and enjoyed by all. </div>
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The afternoon lab was spent in small groups reviewing the book of poetry and images and figuring out what each person saw in a lot of the poems and photographs. So much insight, so many ideas and interpretations and it was fantastic that everyone got to contribute to the sharing.</div>
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This reminds me of how different this teaching approach is to what I remember higher education being like 30 years ago. I love the interaction between teacher and student. The teacher is not so much a "teacher" as popularly defined but more of an elder sharing their life experiences, the influences that shaped their knowledge and allowing us to peek into their past. I also love the fact that we are all respected as individuals and that each of us have experiences worth sharing relating to what we are studying.</div>
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We also got a chance to discuss what our end of class presentation will include. In the group I was a part of, one of the students will be doing a series of paintings comparing several public buildings in Hamilton then and now and their final destination in the 200 years that have ensued since their beginning. A couple of students in the study group will be doing a photographic presentation, but unfortunately did not catch as to the subject of these presentations. I love the selection of various medias that everyone will be using for their end projects. These will showcase Hamilton at it's best and at it's worse both current and historically. </div>
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<br />MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-61835256277501325602011-10-27T01:00:00.000-04:002011-10-27T01:01:19.932-04:00Go the F**K to sleep!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had to laugh when I came across this gem of a<b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Go_the_Fuck_to_Sleep" style="color: blue;">book</a></b>. It will raise eyebrows I'm sure, but if you're a parent, you will recognise the mental soliloquy that is stuck on a never ending loop as you try and get your little one to fall asleep every night. It may not be peppered with swear words, but I'm sure we've all substituted or added some invectives along the way.</div>
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This is definitely <b>NOT</b> a book to read to your little ones, but definitely one you will want to read before you go to sleep. Great way to get rid of the frustrations and reminds you that you're not the only parent who wants their darling child to go the F**K to sleep!</div>
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The fact that it is read by Samuel Jackson just puts the candle on the cake LOL</div>
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There is even a <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/GotheFtoSleep?sk=info" style="color: blue;">Facebook Page</a></b> you can love.</div>
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My darling daughter was one of those children who refused to go to sleep. She'd happily climb into bed but that was it. I would read Dr Seuss to my darling daughter, 1, 2 and sometimes 3 books and she'd be sitting there wide-eyed while my eyes were falling shut. One night I handed her the book and asked her to read it. It was quite interesting to watch a 3 year old reading a story that she'd heard so many times she didn't need to know the words. She'd just point to the pictures and tell me about each one.</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-33310251606550490862011-10-26T06:00:00.000-04:002011-10-26T13:18:49.555-04:00All about her heart<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have a daughter, a beautiful kind hearted wonderful courageous daughter.</div>
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She arrived in this world today, many years ago.</div>
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She greeted me with a smile and a sigh before going back to sleep.</div>
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She greeted me with love and trust in her eyes, that I promised to uphold each and every day.</div>
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She gave me her heart to hold, to love, to cherish and protect.</div>
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She gave me her soul.</div>
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I watched her grow up</div>
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I watched her figure out her way in this world,</div>
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I watched her crash and waited</div>
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I helped when she asked</div>
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I stood by, calmly and patiently waiting for the angel within her to grow and come out.</div>
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I hid my aching heart watching the difficult moments she lived through</div>
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I sent my love, on wings of angels, hoping that it would be felt and strength gained from it.</div>
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My arms are always open to comfort, understand, love.</div>
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My heart is always with her, every day a new challenge to overcome</div>
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My smile is always ready</div>
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My kiss, always warm on her forehead irregardless of what life throws at us.</div>
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To my beautiful daughter,</div>
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May she never be taken for granted.</div>
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Mom XOXO</div>
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The little girl in this video reminded me so much of my own daughter at that age. The quiet dancing, from the heart, from her soul. I had to share this as I only have the video in my mind which is much more difficult to share :)</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-13211292503047561012011-10-15T20:23:00.000-04:002011-10-15T20:23:45.699-04:00Voicing HamiltonI had my very first university level class today!<br />
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It is part of a pilot project that <a href="http://www.mcmaster.ca/"><b><span style="color: blue;">McMaster University</span></b> </a>has created to help those who cannot afford a university education get a taste of what being an adult student can be like. The course is in the Humanities studies and is called Voicing Hamilton. We will be looking at the history of Hamilton from the viewpoint of various native Hamiltonians who have written books, personal histories, photographed, and poems about it's people and the city itself. </div>
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The class is on every Saturday until the first Saturday of December. The morning session will be a lecture and discussion on the materials we had to read during the week leading up to the class. There will also be special guests who have been invited to share with us their viewpoint on Hamilton. The afternoon will be breaking up into smaller groups and beginning to work and develop the final presentation on our personal take of Hamilton, in other words, <i>making our voices heard</i>. We will have the assistance of McMaster arts and science students who volunteered to help with the course. These students will also enjoy learning alongside of us all about Hamilton. The nursing students graciously offered to cover for lunch and today's was excellent with 4 varieties of pizza along with a delicious mixed greens salad, coffee, pop, tea, and desert! cookies, squares, mincemeat pies, and apples.</div>
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The wide range of people who are attending this course will make it that much more interesting as we (they) cover a span of experiences from newly arrived to long time resident. The disparity in ages also gives the viewpoints an interesting twist which I feel will make the class that much more interesting as we have people in their early twenty's to people in their retirement years. <b><a href="http://www.thespec.com/news/local/article/609735--students-set-out-to-discover-hamilton" style="color: blue;">The Spectator</a></b> has a nice article in the Saturday paper about this class.</div>
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I am looking forward to hearing our professor speak about Hamilton. He is a well educated man, broad minded, and comes across as a receptive participant and is as excited as the rest of the students in the class, perhaps even more excited as at the end of the first day, the dynamics of the group were already becoming distinct and the various ideas, suggestions and as end of course presentation ideas were voiced, sparked even more discussions and created even more excitement as everyone realised that "Yes, we are doing this!"</div>
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There are 2 people who figure in this undertaking; the first is the coordinator, Jeanette Eby, she is the <i>go-to</i> person, the one who contacted various groups and urban cores to recruit students. She was also the face of <i>Voicing Hamilton</i> during the selection interviews, the scheduling and organizing the nitty gritty stuff that makes this class tic. The second person, which I first met during the Meet 'n Greet a few weeks ago is the professor; <b><a href="http://www.campioncollege.ca/news-and-events/alumni-of-distinction-awards/recipients/dr-daniel-coleman" style="color: blue;">Daniel Coleman</a></b>. I had no knowledge of this man before this class started, but from the moment I shook hands with him, I knew that there was a gentle soul, someone who truly cared about what information and wisdom he imparts to those who take the time to listen. He is an energetic man who loves to learn just as much as he loves to teach or maybe teach is the wrong word, but more loves to share what he has learned along the way with people. And by sharing, he also learns new things himself, so the class is more of a symbiosis than the typical teacher student relationship. He would be an amazing native story teller... perhaps he was in a previous life...</div>
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During the meet `n greet a few weeks ago, one of the things that was discussed was each of us choosing a subject and media to present our voice of Hamilton. I had 4 distinct ideas of things I wanted to further explore relating to the city of Hamilton and it's inhabitants. After today, I have narrowed my choices down to one, the one that I feel will satisfy my own curiosity and thirst for knowledge as a Métis person. What impact did the settling of this area have on the tribes and peoples already living here and where have these people gone in today's Hamilton. Now what remains to figure out is how I will present this research once it is completed. I found it very exciting that once I had voiced my choices, that I had several people already willingly contributing sources of information for my research. Just by that action, I knew that was the subject I had to do, not just for me, but for those around me, for the peoples and for Hamilton. </div>
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I look forward to next week's class since by then I will have read several chapters in the book "Hamilton; A People's History" by Bill Freeman. and jotted down some thoughts. Hopefully by then, I will also have an idea of what media I will use to present my research. So far, I have a sense that it will be organic in nature; since I am a tactile and visual learner, I tend to present my findings in a tactile/visual medium. I know while I can write somewhat well, I'm always hesitant of writing a long involved thesis and have no one interested in reading it. Certainly, it would represent my findings as well as my feelings on those findings and possibly some conjecture, but in the end, would anyone else care? I feel that a more 'artistic' presentation may attract more attention and make people <i>'look' </i>instead of glance.</div>
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<br /></div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-17732946481310743992011-10-04T15:53:00.000-04:002011-10-04T15:53:10.749-04:00The joys of Fibro<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you remember, in November 2010 it will be the anniversary of when my neurologist informed me that I more than likely (99% sure) have fibromyalgia. He recommended I get a family doctor and get the ball rolling to confirm the diagnosis since my health would not improve with time if left to it's own devices.</div>
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Last week was the appointment where my doctor finally admitted that yes, I have fibromyalgia. Since last November, I have spent many hours being poked, prodded, tested, retested, siphoned for blood, etc... to rule out other causes of the multitude of symptoms I experience daily.</div>
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To that initial fibromyalgia diagnosis, autonomic neuropathy can now be added, again, not something I was expecting to hear, but something that finally explained why my body wasn't listening to me anymore. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuropathy">Autonomic neuropathy</a> is something I have no control over unfortunately. So far, symptoms have been somewhat uncomfortable but am thankful that they are not as bad as they could be. It does make my days a tad more difficult to plan out since I have no advance warning when something will cease working for a few hours/days/weeks or when it will start working properly again. </div>
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And since last November, I've also developed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chronic_fatigue_syndrome">Chronic Fatigue Syndrome </a>(CFS) This joyless problem stems from not sleeping well because of pain in various parts of my body. Even when I do manage to sleep, it's never enough, and not getting down into the healthy sleep levels that recharge your body means I am constantly exhausted, irregardless of what I am doing. Some days, the best I can do is crawl out of bed, make myself breakfast in stages, and make it to the couch to sit there feeling like a zombie and hoping I'll wake up sooner than later. There are days I literally have to crawl back into bed 2 hours later, too tired to keep my eyes open and if I push the issue, I get physically ill if I don't go lay down. Now picture this happening forenoon and afternoon just about every day and think of all the things that you do in one day that I cannot even come close to accomplishing in a week. My home is a disaster, doing dishes is an all day chore done a bit at a time, vacuuming is out of the question, laundry takes a day plus to get done. Even small loads that I hand wash to stretch the time between big loads wipe me out. Cooking is done in stages when my husband can help, otherwise it's whatever is found in the fridge that doesn't require cooking or involved prep time. Being on a fixed income also means no take-out on the days where even looking in the fridge provides nothing edible. Getting groceries using the city's transit system is nothing short of a feat of physical and mental determination just to get it done. And these days, getting groceries means spending hours in food bank line ups every week to get enough to eat for the following four or five days.</div>
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I am thankful for the help I do receive and those who give it freely and lovingly know who they are :) The world needs more people like you :) And I finally am seeing the rewards of what <i>Pay it Forward</i> means. I am on the receiving end now instead of the giving end and at first it's hard to accept, but once you get the epiphany, it makes it easier to say thank you and to accept the help given so lovingly and kindheartedly.</div>
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All of the above is also on top of the long list of physical ailments I already have like diabetes, COPD, IBS, Carpal tunnel in both wrists, migraines, food and med allergies, peripheral neuropathy...and I probably forget some since today is a fibro fog day meaning that my brain feels like it's sitting in a large vat of cotton batting and just couldn't be bothered to do anything that involves thought. </div>
MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-1828919183639789682011-09-16T14:08:00.001-04:002011-09-16T14:10:20.720-04:00Water under the bridge & A New BeginningI know, it's been a while... a long long while... ok, so I've been avoiding posting here. Why you ask? or wonder? Because I felt that I had nothing of interest to post. My situation in life is dire at the moment, literally living from hand to mouth and even that is precarious. So instead of posting something depressing, I avoided it by not posting at all.<br />
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I am grateful for my family and friend who have been supportive to the enth. Without them, we would be much worse off and believe me, we're a hair's breath away from rock bottom.<br />
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So after all this, why am I posting?<br />
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Well, for quite a while now I've been designing patterns using crochet. I have quite a collection of patterns that I've been terrified to publish because as my own worst critic, I felt they were not good enough. But with prodding from various people and encouragement I'm finally going to do just that, publish my patterns! Some will be free, some will be for sale. So without further ado, I present you with my new crochet blog <b><a href="http://lokipancrochet.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Lokipan Crochet Designs</span></a> </b><br />
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I will be posting all my crochet related work there and keep this blog as my personal blog. At times, this one may not be as busy since I will be very busy with designing new patterns, testing them, etc..<br />
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You may wonder, why the name <i>Lokipan</i> ...Well, I am a long time retired dairy farmer, our stock was not the usual cows but close to 400 dairy goats. They are inquisitive, gregarious, intelligent and tricky animals, hence the Loki part, and Pan is the god of goat/sheep herders. It all fit neatly together. When I think of the name, I think warm, friendly, loving thoughts. I miss my goats especially every spring. That was when we would be deluged with kids, such beautiful, warm, cuddly babies, completely entrusting themselves to my arms. There is nothing in this world that smells nicer than a newborn kid. The only way I can describe it, think of a warm sunshiny day, fresh cut hay, a light breeze blowing off the lake over the fields. That is the smell of a baby goat.<br />
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So join me on my designing journey!<br />
I look forward to seeing you soon at <a href="http://lokipancrochet.blogspot.com/" style="color: blue;">Lokipan Crochet Designs</a>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-7224903442625107312011-06-24T03:00:00.004-04:002011-08-09T01:03:43.974-04:00SCNA9 is the jerkiest gene in the planet<div style="text-align: justify;">A friend sent me this<a href="http://io9.com/5814581/a-single-mutant-gene-is-responsible-for-30-of-all-mysterious-pain"> <b><span style="color: blue;">link</span></b></a> to an article announcing that the SCNA9 gene is the jerkiest gene in the planet. Since it seems that they have now determined that this is the gene responsible for neuropathy, I'd like to send it back. Mine's working overtime!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But until they can discover some kind of miracle cure, I'll stick with taking my amitriptylenes. I've had the "burning man" description and I agree completely, it's beyond any kind of pain scale anyone can come up with except maybe for this one.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #cc0000;">Realistic Pain scale</b></td></tr>
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I've woken up with every inch of my skin screaming in pain and it literally felt like I was on fire. What woke me up was a nightmare where I was being chased by a giant wielding a sword made entirely with flames. I couldn't run fast enough to get away and I woke up as the blade came down on my back. I wanted to scream but the pain was so bad I could only gasp. I guess it was my brain trying to deal with the overflow of false pain messages the nerves were sending.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hmm... I think this pain scale would also be good for my poor husband considering the muffled screaming I hear more often that I want to admit and there's not a dang thing anyone can do about it. Poor guy.</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-7596244088970219892011-06-18T02:41:00.000-04:002011-06-18T02:41:44.848-04:00June already! SHEESH!<div style="text-align: justify;">Well, latest update for us. We are now officially on Ontario Works (welfare). My doctor has filled out all the paperwork to get me a special diet allowance and also the paperwork for work exemptions. After talking with my worker late this afternoon, she suggested that it might be a good idea to bring the ODSP application package to my doctor and see if he'll fill it out. It would make life a lot easier for us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At this point, OW covers our drug expenses which is a boon. For the 1st time since I was diagnosed with diabetes I actually have all the tools to take care of myself and it feels wonderful! With drug expenses covered, we've actually got a wee bit of money to spare now compared to none in the past! Let's hope this doesn't come crashing down around us. I know, skeptic, but believe me, if you were in my shoes, you'd be wondering too. I've had the carpet yanked out from under my feet so many times now, I keep looking over my shoulder.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On other news, I'm learning or have learned filet crochet and I love it! The design options are huge! I've got several projects on the go right now involving filet crochet components. Since I plan on publishing these patterns, I'm not going to go into too many details. At least I can say one is a blanket and the other is a woman's top. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've also come to learn how to reverse engineer clothing that's already made being displayed in photos. And also to figure out vintage pattern jargon. All these are a tremendous help when designing a pattern. Let's face it, there's only so many ways you can make a top or a blanket or a skirt, etc... so it comes down to stitch choices and colours. I base my patterns more on stitch design than colour since everyone prefers certain colours over others and why limit a knitter or crocheter when there are so many colours to choose from? Same goes for yarn types. Why make someone feel bad because they can't afford the more expensive yarns for specific projects. I'd rather leave the type of yarn chosen to the person who will make the pattern. Personally, I don't have the funds to buy pricier yarns, I depend largely on my daughter and my best friend supplying me with over stocks and low cost yarns or second hand yarns. Why not repurpose yarn which I've done in the past. Buying a sweater that was still quite good but the design was atrocious. I've ripped many sweaters back in order to reuse the yarn, still do when I happen to see one at the 2nd hand store. I doubt I'll ever be a yarn snob since for most of what I design, I prefer acrylic. It's easier to work with, doesn't stretch or shrink and is great for kids clothing. The only time I'd prefer using wool or alpaca, etc is for winter accessories like hats, scarves, mittens, cowls etc.. Nothing beats wool or alpaca when it comes to keeping the cold away from your skin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Soon I should be able to post photos of these projects as well as others that are currently in the works. The design process is quite organic for me. I have an idea, I write it down and sketch what my mind has conjured up. I leave it for a while since it's not fully worked out yet, and every once in a while, something will pop up and back I go to my notebook to add to the original idea. I liken it to making a stew LOL except that in this case, my brain is the stewing pot!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've also been rather busy test knitting and crocheting new designs for <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/" style="color: blue;">SmoothFox</a></b>. I always love testing her patterns since they are so well written out and beautiful and useful. Take the time to go visit her blog. Down the right hand side you will see a huge list of free patterns as well as patterns you can purchase. It will be time well spent.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another bit of news, although this one is quite sad. A crochet icon passed away yesterday. Jean Leinhauser was a prolific crocheter. She published a multitude of books, co-owned a huge group on yahoo with Rita Weiss called Crochet Partners. She was also very active with CGOA (crochet gild of america) as a judge and reviewer for crocheters applying for their master licensing. She always had time to answer a question relating to crochet. I had the pleasure of receiving a few of her supportive emails over the years and cherish those. She brought crochet to all of us in a simple yet well thought out process. She will be missed by all of us who crochet. <b><a href="http://dorischancrochet.com/2011/06/15/the-passing-of-a-crochet-legend/" style="color: blue;">Doris Chan</a><span style="color: blue;">,</span></b> another crochet icon posted on her blog. What she says covers it all as far as I'm concerned. RIP Jean. We will miss you but as Doris said, we will continue to smile and soldier on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photos of Jean are rare considering there were only 3 when I did an image search on Google. The one I did find has Jean in the center square where she belongs. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Leinhauser, 2nd from left and her best friend Rita Weiss, far right. The dynamic duo!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>If you knew Jean, you also know she loved her dogs. Anyone wanting to make a donation, in kind or items made, please pass them on to your local animal shelter in Jean's name. Thank youMarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-37273058983334253322011-05-25T18:50:00.000-04:002011-05-25T18:50:01.070-04:002011 until now<div style="text-align: justify;"> So far 2011 has not been the kindest to us. Between not having work to having sporadic work to not having work and my health and my husband's health, it's been a roller coaster for the two of us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My husband's kidney stones have ramped up. Since the beginning of this year, he's passed a dozen or so larger stones and myriad smaller ones that we just don't bother collecting anymore. All this means he's in constant pain. He rarely gets a day when there is no pain and those are cherished when they do happen. At least his blood pressure is stable but his digestive system is also having issues.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My health has also been an up and down coaster with diabetes, COPD, IBS, neuropathy and chronic pain (fibro) hounding me every step of every day and that doesn't include the panoply of side effects of having chronic pain like painful to the touch skin, unexplained rashes, difficulty sleeping, restless leg syndrome, tremors, etc... It just never seems to let up and I'd rather not think about it because then things hurt worse. I have oxycodone when it gets really bad, but I'd rather not take those. I've heard enough horror stories that I only use it when the pain just can't be ignored anymore. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Because of the various health issues, it also means numerous medical appointments, tests, etc... which most employers frown upon and since I've waited for 6 years to finally get a family doctor, I'm not about to try and switch to someone who offers evening and weekend office hours. And most places when it comes to tests and blood work don't open evenings and weekends. It also makes finding suitable work that I can do very difficult. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With the high stress levels, not having work, not having money to pay rent, bills, meds, not having nutritious food, all those things just add to the already overcrowded pot of misery we seem to be stuck in and haven't found a way out of yet. Next Tuesday, we have an appointment to meet with an intake person with Ontario Works (welfare). This is our last desperate effort to find a way to support ourselves. Let's hope there is some help from there for meds and rent.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So this is all to explain why I haven't posted for so long. It's hard to find joy or rejoice when there's not much to rejoice about. Well, I guess we can always rejoice at the fact we still have an apartment and health as good as that may be ....</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm writing this now, so I can attempt to move on emotionally and stop focussing on the sad parts of my life. There's enough of that going around, I don't need to add to the pile. And yes, some might call this depression, but I don't feel sad 100% of the time, I still laugh when it's funny, and still care very much for my husband, children and myself. I just needed to get this off my chest.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pfu-viMfpsg/Td2Ggc_qyII/AAAAAAAACSw/hRugpTbedjw/s1600/Never_Give_Up_Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pfu-viMfpsg/Td2Ggc_qyII/AAAAAAAACSw/hRugpTbedjw/s640/Never_Give_Up_Poster.jpg" width="518" /></a></td></tr>
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Now don't take me wrong, we have a small support circle, my daughter and my best friend help as much as they can and we appreciate it. But I also realise that there is a point where enough is enough. I just hope that things turn around very very soon for us...</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-66642116074812850692011-04-26T12:53:00.000-04:002011-04-26T12:53:30.772-04:00SABLE or HOARDER?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nm3FIVG3Q-M/Tbbyd3zlckI/AAAAAAAACOk/0Up0Bu6UBXA/s1600/stash.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nm3FIVG3Q-M/Tbbyd3zlckI/AAAAAAAACOk/0Up0Bu6UBXA/s1600/stash.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Earlier today, I read an<b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://www.crochetspot.com/crochet-supplies-and-the-ability-to-ignore-them/comment-page-1/#comment-143852" style="color: blue;">article</a></b> about hoarding yarn, fabric, etc.. One of the commenters said the following: </div><blockquote>“I told my husband there is a special place in heaven for men married to women who crochet (and collect yarn). He just rolled his eyes.”</blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"> I still have tears rolling down my face from laughing so hard I had to run for the bathroom!<br />
That is so my husband! </div><div style="text-align: justify;">He grew up with a knitter/crocheter so he knows about SABLE ! <b>S</b>tash <b>A</b>cquisition <b>B</b>eyond <b>L</b>ife <b>E</b>xpectancy</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I inherited his mom’s small collection of knitting and crocheting paraphernalia when she passed away in 2001. Thankfully, he along with my daughter and my best friend are enablers. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">One person called the various collections that we choose to ignore Elephants...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As for Elephants, oh yes, we have quite a few between the 2 of us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Collections that he will never part with...</div><ol style="text-align: justify;"><li>Assorted painted miniatures of fictional characters along with the supplies for painting such.</li>
<li> Enough books to start our own lending library (about 1/4 are mine) LOL</li>
<li>Computer parts, old monitors and ancient towers </li>
<li>Magic the Gathering decks from when he competed</li>
<li>Poker paraphernalia</li>
<li>Board games! lots of board games we never play anymore! : ( stored in MY bedroom/office/craft room. My bedroom is NOT THAT BIG!</li>
<li>Graphic Novel (Comic book) collection</li>
</ol><div> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Collections I will never part with...</div><ol style="text-align: justify;"><li>stamp collection</li>
<li>yarn and yarn accessories: breakdown of yarn: 10 large rubbermaid bins, 4 large boxes, 3 under the bed type storage bags, 8 reusable shopping bags, 2 large fabric bags and a nylon laundry bag. Most of which is stored in my bedroom that also serves as the office. OH, and my daughter is bringing another bin’s worth of yarn. See above about enablers LOL My daughter found one of these vintage hinged velvet-lined carrying cases 2nd hand that has multiple storage boxes within. It’s packed with knitting/crochet paraphernalia.</li>
<li>61 gigabytes of patterns, magazines, books, photos about knitting and crochet on a separate drive (computer has 2 hard drives and 2 external drives)</li>
<li>the 1/4 portion of books of which about 1/4 are about knitting and crochet</li>
<li>a plastic reusable shopping bag filled with fabric for lining hats, dresses, bags & purses</li>
<li>tiny wind up toys which my BFF enables me! :)</li>
<li>beading supplies stored in a 3-drawer bin on casters (could use one more)</li>
</ol><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">We live in a small apartment and storage is at a premium. No storage locker so it all has to live with us. For most days, I can easily ignore the collections, but other days I would give anything to have an extra room that I could store everything in and not have to look at it all the time! Don't take me wrong, I love my yarn to bits! I just would like to not have it stare at me in the face wherever I turn LOL </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There seems to be an afinity for nerds/geeks and fiber lovers to attract each other.<br />
May be because we are hoarders at heart?<br />
Don’t speak a normal language? and we understand each other on a cellular level?<br />
Whatever it is, I love it!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do you have one of those you share your life and living space with? </div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-45322132309491681932011-04-17T15:45:00.001-04:002011-04-17T15:45:00.537-04:00Another year gone by....When I write about my sister's passing, it's because of 2 things.<br />
<br />
I cannot forgive myself for not going to her earlier, to be at least able to tell her just how much I love her and to say goodbye. This year brought this back to me after watching the Japanese people fight their way through the most horrible earthquake and tsunami to hit in many years, even worse in magnitude than the Haiti earthquake, worst than hurricane Katrina's devastation of New Orleans. But what struck me as very different was the way the Japanese stoically took it all in, did their best to continue with life as best they could. Something amazing in the face of devastation on a grander scale. The quiet acceptance, the pride, the courage to carry on, helping each other out. All those traits I saw in my sister's battle with cancer. And the videos of the devastation in Japan brought it all back to me as if it was just days ago that my sister passed away, quietly, with dignity.<br />
<br />
And the second reason... I miss you Rox, so very very much. I know you are watching over me. I thank you for the gifts you send me along the way. The way people come across my path, people I can help even in a small way. I thank you for those and I hope you keep sending me more. Maybe, just maybe, this way I can redeem myself for not being there for you when you really needed me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1NywfDzEtLA/TX7Kv3bIAvI/AAAAAAAACBk/Ot566R72Ck8/s1600/2009_04_26th+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1NywfDzEtLA/TX7Kv3bIAvI/AAAAAAAACBk/Ot566R72Ck8/s320/2009_04_26th+029.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relai pour la vie</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-T11eY5gDapg/TX7KzLGRpUI/AAAAAAAACBo/0SaP8O1gWGM/s1600/2009_04_26th+032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-T11eY5gDapg/TX7KzLGRpUI/AAAAAAAACBo/0SaP8O1gWGM/s320/2009_04_26th+032.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relay for Life - My sister</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jkKiVi8G_Ik/TX7K1DydNoI/AAAAAAAACBs/ICkUZo84Eac/s1600/2009_04_26th+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jkKiVi8G_Ik/TX7K1DydNoI/AAAAAAAACBs/ICkUZo84Eac/s320/2009_04_26th+034.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her wings - Now she has real ones</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LqHWlbF6Dz8/TX7KiScj_6I/AAAAAAAACBc/NOVc5lG7IGs/s1600/2009_04_26th+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LqHWlbF6Dz8/TX7KiScj_6I/AAAAAAAACBc/NOVc5lG7IGs/s400/2009_04_26th+022.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1969 - 2009</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Rest in peace dearest sister. I am doing my best to walk in your footsteps each and every day.MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-68510426589549308622011-03-07T21:47:00.002-05:002011-03-07T21:51:44.861-05:00International Women's Day March 8, 2011<div style="text-align: justify;">Are we equals? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A short 2 minute film narrated by Dame Judy Dench with Daniel Craig as James Bond 007 starting off as the usual well-dressed spy who then goes and dresses the part of a woman. The figures read out by Judy Dench bring the horrible reality of how badly women of this earth are treated. Even here, Canada, USA, Europe, countries who claim to be civilized, yet there are women every day who are killed, maimed, raped, abused and die at the hands of their husbands, boy friends, and ex's. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One hundred years ago, suffragettes fought for women to have the vote. At the time, women were considered little more than chattel. Have we changed? You be the judge....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="349" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/gkp4t5NYzVM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/gkp4t5NYzVM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="349"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">If you want to learn more, you can join the great <a href="http://www.weareequals.org/">Equality Debate</a> and do your part to stamp out the inequalities of our world. </div></div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-28172324656699927292011-01-30T16:04:00.002-05:002011-01-30T16:04:25.523-05:00Another one bites the yarn!Another conversion achieved! Thanks to the ladies of Ravelry...<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="390" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/N-sFSL-JPXM&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/N-sFSL-JPXM&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></embed></object></div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-3462679868611252662011-01-12T22:14:00.000-05:002011-01-12T22:14:01.610-05:00Oopsie!My apologies to all. Time got away from me somehow.<br />
<br />
I have been working on a post but it's taking longer than I expected. Soon though I will be back, same bat time, same bat station :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thepopfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/batman_and_robin_photo.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://thepopfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/batman_and_robin_photo.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-57809709109076123602010-12-26T03:40:00.000-05:002010-12-26T03:40:57.269-05:00Merry Christmas to all & to all a good night<div style="text-align: justify;">Christmas has come and gone. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At least we have heat, a roof over our heads, food in the fridge and our medication. My darling son came and spent Friday with us which was a treat. He's maturing so much now. Every time I see him, his mental capacities have improved. His birthday is on Monday, 26 years old then. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm down with a cold I'm trying really hard to not let get any worse. I have COPD and a cold for me is not a good thing. Colds have a tendency of turning into something a lot worse through no fault of my own. Let's hope I can stay our of the ER this year!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRb_gdnamcI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/NYlWg-hBb4g/s1600/charliesnoopyxmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRb_gdnamcI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/NYlWg-hBb4g/s400/charliesnoopyxmas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good Night</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-50475746824854850902010-12-23T23:04:00.002-05:002010-12-23T23:06:31.938-05:00Christmas Crochet<div style="text-align: justify;">Talk about last minute presents!!!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A 3 year old little girl who loves pink and snowflakes!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What to make?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course, a hat, scarf and mittens!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And which pattern to choose from?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Smoothfox's of course!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8xuoErI/AAAAAAAAB00/L853JWKd12o/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8xuoErI/AAAAAAAAB00/L853JWKd12o/s200/2010_Dec_22nd+022.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8GBoA0I/AAAAAAAAB0s/1xJEWB4xrjw/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8GBoA0I/AAAAAAAAB0s/1xJEWB4xrjw/s200/2010_Dec_22nd+021.jpg" width="200" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I used the easiest hat pattern ever.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just follow this<a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/"> <b><span style="color: blue;">link</span></b></a> and you too can enjoy making this super warm super easy hat.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just check out the name LOL Brain Dead Easy Short Row Hat</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Scroll down the right side of her blog and you will find the pattern listed under free patterns. The hat was amazingly easy to crochet. I added a white snowflake taken from the Sugar scarf motif so it looks like a snowflake landed on her cute little head. I also added an earflap piece that wraps around to the other ear giving extra warmth for her neck. The flap can be turned inside when it's not needed and still gives extra warmth over the ears.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I then decided to use another one of her patterns for the scarf.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8a1sgGI/AAAAAAAAB0w/wczasD6a_Dk/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQM8a1sgGI/AAAAAAAAB0w/wczasD6a_Dk/s320/2010_Dec_22nd+020.jpg" style="height: 232px; width: 320px;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Sugar Scarf. Same deal as above, scroll down to the list of free patterns on the right side of her blog and you will find it listed under free patterns. I added a snowflake on both sides of the last snowflake on one end of the scarf. It makes it easier to pull through the open spaces between each snowflake. Makes the scarf adjustable and there's no chance of it falling off since it's joined. The scarf is long enough to be wrapped around her head twice and still be able to thread the last snowflake through an opening at the other end. She should be nice and cozy all winter :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
For the mittens, I designed my own pattern. I wasn't happy with the mitten patterns I'd found searching through the internet. They turned out quite cute, especially after I sewed on a downsized version of the Sugar scarf snowflake into the palm of each hand. That way she's always caught a snowflake. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQW2t2aU4I/AAAAAAAAB1o/u08bUgyOcVY/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQW2t2aU4I/AAAAAAAAB1o/u08bUgyOcVY/s320/2010_Dec_22nd+024.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQW2zl3MTI/AAAAAAAAB1s/l_jVGTxxKE4/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQW2zl3MTI/AAAAAAAAB1s/l_jVGTxxKE4/s200/2010_Dec_22nd+004.jpg" style="height: 320px; width: 240px;" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQZ4JSMtuI/AAAAAAAAB2o/PxQlZu3GnTU/s1600/2010_Dec_22nd+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TRQZ4JSMtuI/AAAAAAAAB2o/PxQlZu3GnTU/s320/2010_Dec_22nd+009.jpg" width="320" /></a>Unfortunately, the only photos I have are of the hat and scarf modelled by my big baby doll. Still all looks very cute. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And to finish off, I designed a crocheted kitty toy for her to have and take along wherever she goes. She loves kitties and this one will definitely be a favorite.! I used eyelash yarn together with the yarn I'd used for the kitty to crochet the tail. It turned out very cute and curly twirly. A little girl's dream come true.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My apologies for wonky photos and layout. Blogger decided it wasn't going to resize the photos or place them where I put them. </div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-56894506006513146092010-12-21T10:10:00.006-05:002010-12-21T10:10:00.235-05:00Washichu<div style="text-align: justify;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i>washichu: the name given to white men by the Lakota people, also means greedy, those who take the best meat.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i><i>While listening to this talk, I cried, tears that would not stop falling, my heart breaking with each photo.</i></i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i><i>The stories vary but the people who came to north america on the big ships, settled here, grew families, took more and more land using treaties that weren't worth the paper they were written on considering how well they ignored these treaties. </i></i></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i>So how much longer do these people have to live in abject poverty before they are given their rights, their lands, their pride and freedom? How much longer do they have to wait for what is rightfully theirs?</i></span></div><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i> </i></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i><object height="326" width="446"><param name="movie" value="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><param name="bgColor" value="#ffffff"></param><param name="flashvars" value="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/AaronHuey_2010X-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/AaronHuey-2010X.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=1004&introDuration=15330&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=830&adKeys=talk=aaron_huey;year=2010;theme=bold_predictions_stern_warnings;theme=master_storytellers;theme=art_unusual;theme=war_and_peace;theme=to_boldly_go;theme=new_on_ted_com;theme=rethinking_poverty;theme=a_taste_of_tedx;event=TEDxDU+2010;&preAdTag=tconf.ted/embed;tile=1;sz=512x288;" /><embed src="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf" pluginspace="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" bgColor="#ffffff" width="446" height="326" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" flashvars="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/AaronHuey_2010X-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/AaronHuey-2010X.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=1004&introDuration=15330&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=830&adKeys=talk=aaron_huey;year=2010;theme=bold_predictions_stern_warnings;theme=master_storytellers;theme=art_unusual;theme=war_and_peace;theme=to_boldly_go;theme=new_on_ted_com;theme=rethinking_poverty;theme=a_taste_of_tedx;event=TEDxDU+2010;"></embed></object> </i></span></div><span id="search" style="visibility: visible;"><i><br />
</i></span>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-86265718639294916552010-12-20T13:59:00.002-05:002010-12-20T13:59:00.163-05:00Sleigh Ride the Amigurumi way<div style="text-align: justify;">Another video done by U900, the amigurumi ukulele duo. Watch the piano playing bear, even his foot taps to the beat! A lot of attention was paid to setting up each character for the stop motion filming.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/chGGNf5n4Lo?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/chGGNf5n4Lo?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Enjoy!MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-32311134555910649202010-12-13T22:02:00.001-05:002010-12-13T22:04:07.088-05:0010 Years Ago Today<div style="text-align: justify;">We had met on an online role playing community. He was a stealthy good looking thief, I was a half-elf ranger forever roaming, perpetually lost, wandering around Realms of Despair looking for something more to my life.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As usual, I wandered into an otherwise unexplored area of the main city which turned out to be thieves alley. And what resides there, the Thief Guild of course and at it's entrance, a handsome thief talking business with another thief. I excused myself for walking in on their conversation and walked away, but not without taking a good look at the handsome thieves bio. I sent him a message saying that I liked his bio. Within seconds of the message being sent, there standing next to me is the handsome thief. Gasp!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We introduced ourselves, and started talking about anything and everything and quickly discovered that we had a lot in common. Every day we met online, and the conversation kept going, days passed, weeks passed and still we talked about everything and anything and had now moved to finishing each other's sentences and knowing what the other was thinking before a word was uttered. A month went by, a second month went by and a third. The friendship kept growing as we became closer and closer. Then horror of horror, my handsome thief was losing internet access for an indefinite period of time. What to do, what to do! We turned to letter writing, not email, but actual pen and paper and envelopes and stamps. We corresponded the old fashioned way for at least six months with letters crossing paths on their way to Belgium and Canada. We talked on the phone, and lost track of time. Whopping phone bills, but it had become love. There is no price for true love and call it what you may; soul mates or kindred spirits, we were hooked.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The good news came in the fall, my darling handsome thief wanted to meet me in person. Plans were laid out, flights reserved and the faithful day arrived, December 13th. The day I met my handsome thief for the first time at Dorval airport in Montreal. The flight landed in late afternoon. I had driven cross country from southern Ontario to be there in time. I was standing at the front of the welcoming crowd gathered at the exit for flight arrivals. Kept finding myself pushed further back by taller people until someone suggested I stand on their baggage trolley. So up I went, just to barely see over the shoulders of the people in front of me. So each time the doors opened, I would hop up to get a good view of the lines on the other side of the doors. After an hour of doing this, I was becoming worried that something had happened; that he'd missed his flight, or worse yet, that he'd gotten cold feet and cancelled at the last minute. I kept pushing back those awful thoughts because I knew he was near, I could feel it in my heart. So each time the doors opened, there I was doing the kangaroo hop to see my beloved thief. And finally! there he was at the back of a long line, he smiled when I waved at him when I'd hop up to see him better before the doors closed. And each time the doors opened, he was a little closer and finally, he was coming through the doors! My heart was beating so fast with anticipation, I jumped off the trolley, slipped under the cable keeping the crowd back and fell into his arms for the first of many many hugs. It felt like he was coming home after being away for a few months. Everything about him felt familiar. It felt so right, the way his arms went around me, feeling his breath against my forehead, the beating of his heart under my cheek. My darling thief was finally home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We stayed in Montreal for a couple of days. It wasn't planned that way, but the airplane ride had jostled a kidney stone free and it was having a party of it's own coming down. So what is the first thing that any good canadian does to a newcomer to the country? Treat him to Timmy's of course LOL followed by pizza from Little Caesar. We also went to a grocery store and my darling's eyes just about popped out of his head, he'd never seen a huge grocery store like that before. Mind you, he'd never experienced snow either so to land in Montreal in December was quite the treat for him. He loved it and still does.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The drive back to southern Ontario was long and tiring. We stopped halfway just before Toronto for something to eat and I showed him on a map of Ontario how far we'd travelled. The distance was mind-boggling for him considering that Belgium fits in the Niagara Peninsula. He couldn't get over how much empty space there is and anyone who has driven the 401 length between Toronto and Kingston can vouch just how mind numbing that drive is. We finally got home late that night, and he got to meet my teenage son who instantly took a liking to my darling.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy anniversary my darling thief. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Forever your Angel I'll be.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPvybah_bhI/AAAAAAAABzA/JPYTymCqONA/s1600/2008_01_6th+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPvybah_bhI/AAAAAAAABzA/JPYTymCqONA/s400/2008_01_6th+003.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love you forever and a day my beautiful green eyed man<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-43262984613670985802010-12-12T13:49:00.002-05:002010-12-12T14:09:10.461-05:00Amigurumi Jingle Bells<div style="text-align: left;">This is so cute! and quite apt for most of Ontario... well except for Hamilton. We're 'still' without any of the white stuff. Just spoke with my Mom who is getting snow, sleet, freezing rain, snow, sleet, freezing rain, ad nauseum. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, without further ado, Jingle Bells done with amigurumi characters, a Japanese band called U900.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GWEyh3MeFT8?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GWEyh3MeFT8?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
A lot of attention was paid to setting up each character for the stop motion filming. <br />
<br />
They have several songs which can all be found on Youtube. Enjoy! :)</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-79931894691793516822010-12-07T14:19:00.001-05:002010-12-07T14:20:04.747-05:0030 foot lion creations for 2012 Olympics!<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">What a fantastic way of showing off crochet's versatility!</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">I would give anything to be able to walk under and around those gorgeous lions once completed.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/7095496" width="400"></iframe></div><a href="http://vimeo.com/7095496">East Midlands</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2445630">Artists Taking the Lead</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8778009252696584341.post-39343602589093600852010-12-05T21:08:00.001-05:002010-12-05T21:21:00.418-05:00Fun with crochet testing new patterns!<div style="text-align: justify;">This is what I've been working on for the past couple of months. Several test crochets for a wonderful designer and some projects of my own. I cannot get over how much time as slipped away. We're already in the last month of 2010 and I have no clue where most of it went.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPw0IOQg0SI/AAAAAAAABsw/ERFAGnT9gRk/s1600/2010_July_14th+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPw0IOQg0SI/AAAAAAAABsw/ERFAGnT9gRk/s320/2010_July_14th+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemony Lime Citrus Square 12 x 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">First, the test crochet projects for<a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/"> <b><span style="color: blue;">Smoothfoxlover</span></b></a><b><span style="color: blue;"> </span></b>aka Donna. This lady develops some of the prettiest crochet designs and I love love love testing them for her. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">First up, I made the<b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/07/smoothfoxs-lemony-lime-citrus-square.html" style="color: blue;">Lemony Lime Citrus Square</a></b> 12 x 12, and you can find the details<b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://gambitsview.blogspot.com/search?q=lemony+lime" style="color: blue;">here</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span></b>in a previous post. The pattern is available free, just click on the name of the pattern above and it will take you to Smoothfox's blog.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCg3AwTFI/AAAAAAAABhs/DQ8p8TIvwKU/s1600/2010_July_27th+Foxs+Mystery+Round+ripple+blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCg3AwTFI/AAAAAAAABhs/DQ8p8TIvwKU/s320/2010_July_27th+Foxs+Mystery+Round+ripple+blanket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Shape Shifter Blanket</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The next project I tested was<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/foxs-shape-shifter-round-ripple-12-points"> <b><span style="color: blue;">Foxs Shape Shifter</span></b></a> blanket which is available for purchase. Simply follow the link by clicking on the pattern name. This was a great crochet project since I have 2 brand new nephews.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOn4wEWAxII/AAAAAAAABmw/ganiJ5Qd99E/s1600/Bump8cr.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOn4wEWAxII/AAAAAAAABmw/ganiJ5Qd99E/s200/Bump8cr.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Mulberry Bush 12 x 12</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Following the blanket, I tested this lovely square called <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/08/smoothfoxs-mulberry-bush-12x12.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Mulberry Bush</a></b> 12 x 12 square. It's available free on her site, simply click on the pattern name and it will take you to her lovely site. Look around and explore all the gorgeous patterns listed on the right. Some are free, some are for purchase only, but definitely affordable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsA53Jk8UI/AAAAAAAABg4/TDA3xp2R6BE/s1600/Neapolitan+Ice+Cream+12x12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsA53Jk8UI/AAAAAAAABg4/TDA3xp2R6BE/s200/Neapolitan+Ice+Cream+12x12.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Neapolitan Ice Cream 12 x 12</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For my next test crochet came the<b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/08/smoothfoxs-neapolitan-ice-cream-12x12.html" style="color: blue;">Neapolitan Ice cream</a></b> 12 x 12 square, again, it was a pleasure to crochet! It's available from Donna's etsy shop or her Ravelry shop, both links are on her blog, just follow the link by clicking on the pattern name.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCf-B-ijI/AAAAAAAABhg/826LyY4pYkY/s1600/2010_Sept_1st+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCf-B-ijI/AAAAAAAABhg/826LyY4pYkY/s320/2010_Sept_1st+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Daisy Four Patch 12 x 12</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The next test crochet was a lot of fun since I ended up making enough for a cushion. The square is called <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/09/smoothfoxs-daisy-four-patch-12x12.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Daisy Four Patch</a></b> 12 x 12. It is quite versatile as it has different sizes depending on where you stop crocheting the squares. You can make four 5 x 5 squares, assemble them, complete a few rounds around the 4 conjoined squares, and you get a very nice 12 x 12. Or you can keep crocheting until your squares are 6 x 6 or continue for a 7 x 7. So many ways to use these and you can get rid of a lot of odds and ends of yarn you would otherwise have sitting in your stash for eons. Each centre piece only takes a very small amount of yarn and you can vary the color of those to make the daisies. Great pattern and lots of fun to make. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOoB2BwdE4I/AAAAAAAABnE/D3SmNpa615Q/s1600/2010_Nov_22nd+011+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="331" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOoB2BwdE4I/AAAAAAAABnE/D3SmNpa615Q/s400/2010_Nov_22nd+011+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Nonagon Blanket</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">This was followed by <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/10/smoothfoxs-nonagon-baby-blanket.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Nonagon Blanket</a></b> test crochet. Another pleasure to create and you can keep going past the last row of the pattern and create a super huge blanket. The pattern makes a very nice conveniently sized blanket to be used in strollers and car seats. Great for using up various colors as well. This pattern is available to purchase by clicking the pattern name. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCgrB9B5I/AAAAAAAABho/6qCcpan0bvY/s1600/2010_Oct_18th+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TNsCgrB9B5I/AAAAAAAABho/6qCcpan0bvY/s320/2010_Oct_18th+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Diagonal Box Stitch square 6 x </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then it was <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/10/smoothfoxs-diagonal-sitch-box-square.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Diagonal Box Stitch</a></b> square. I had a lot of fun making this square. Once you learn the pattern, it's easy to do as a take along on the bus, car, waiting at Dr's offices, etc. The pattern is available free, just click on the link that will take you to her blog where you can download the pattern. Another great stashbuster for using up all those odds and ends of cotton and acrylic. So many things that can be made using this base pattern!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOGl7SLsjJI/AAAAAAAABlg/MwQkXP6JJIA/s1600/2010_Nov_15th+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TOGl7SLsjJI/AAAAAAAABlg/MwQkXP6JJIA/s320/2010_Nov_15th+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Spiral Blanket Nbr 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Then it was the turn for a couple of blankets. The first one is <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/11/smoothfoxs-spiral-baby-blanket-number-2.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Spiral blanket Nbr 2 </a></b>Very simple pattern and once the spiral is established, one that can be made in a few evenings while watching a movie. I used 2 strands of baby yarn for the white and love how soft and cushy it feels. The pattern is available for purchase via Donna's site, simply click on the name of the pattern that will take you directly to her blog. The second blanket has not been released yet. </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPEoqm7RvnI/AAAAAAAABo0/bLEqcTINVE0/s1600/2010_Nov_26th+002+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPEoqm7RvnI/AAAAAAAABo0/bLEqcTINVE0/s320/2010_Nov_26th+002+%25282%2529.jpg" width="141" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Pineapple Scarf</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The next project to test was a lovely scarf named <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/11/smoothfoxs-pineapple-scarf.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Pineapple Scarf</a></b>. I used a blend of mohair and acrylic to make my version and it turned out beautiful. I had just enough yarn to make a quick hat to go with it. Lots of fun to make in a couple of evenings. This has become my go to scarf pattern for quick gifts with the versatility it has using different yarns. The pattern is available for purchase by simply following the above link by clicking on the pattern name.</div><br />
And last but by no means least is <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/2010/12/smoothfoxs-cutie-pie-flower-square-6x6.html" style="color: blue;">Foxs Cutie Pie Flower</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span></b>6 x 6 square. One of the cutest squares I've tested so far. Easy and fast to make. I can see this becoming part of a variety of items like a scarf, blanket, bag, vest. The pattern is available for purchase by clicking on the above link.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPvL4Ogw8bI/AAAAAAAABqQ/CFqoVcSc7Pk/s1600/2010_Dec_4th+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mn1n8JpqoII/TPvL4Ogw8bI/AAAAAAAABqQ/CFqoVcSc7Pk/s320/2010_Dec_4th+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foxs Cutie Pie Flower 6 x 6</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are a few more projects currently being tested and will post about these when they are released. I highly recommend Donna's patterns to anyone looking for quality and well designed crochet items as well as easy to follow patterns with no hoops to jump through. Take a look through her <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/" style="color: blue;">blog</a></b>, you won't regret it. She is a prolific designer so there's always something new on her blog.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have some of my own crochet projects that I completed while doing the test crocheting. I'll post about those another day since my head is killing me right now. But Enjoy the photos and go visit <b><a href="http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/" style="color: blue;">Donna's blog</a></b>!</div>MarieAngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16910017312039268145noreply@blogger.com2