Ramblings in a Little Black Dress

You need to know.

2006-09-17T19:10:00.000-04:00

I think you need to know something - that I can see when you are on my blog. So, when you tell your daughter and your mother that you haven't been online in days, I can show them the times you were on, and looking at my site. They're a bit concerned that you have gone out of your way to find it again, after I removed it from the search engine you use to access it, but I guess it just proves how you'll go out of your way to obsess over me.

I mean, c'mon. You do know that this keeps track of how you've been to this site 64 times in the last 100 days, right? You know that I can see you used the phrase "sarah j goes to england blog" in google.co.uk to find it again? I've also seen the methods you've used to try and link to my new blog - the one I actually keep updated. But, it doesn't seem like you've had much success there. But that's okay. I've passworded all the stuff I wouldn't want you to read, anyway.

Keep trying, though. That way, when emails go unanswered, texts go unresponded too, I can say, "Well, she was online on September 17th at 3:52pm...not sure why she's telling you she can't get online!"

New Website - Update your Bloglines

2006-08-22T16:43:00.000-04:00

Update your bloglines, I have a new blog URL. Edit: I've had to remove the redirect script, and the URL link. My blog and I are being stalked (according to RI state law), and I'm doing my best to prevent the behavior before beging forced to take it to the next level. eMail me at my yahoo address if you want the new blog addie, or would like more informations about the patterns contained on this site. If you don't know my yahoo addie, just leave a comment on this post, letting me know who you are and why you would like my new URL.

I love my Dad.

2006-08-21T23:11:00.000-04:00

I've had a rough few days. Tonight, my Dad sat next to me on the couch, and asked me how I was. With tears in my eyes, I let it all out. Everything. We talked and talked, and he couldn't believe what I was telling him. Not because of anything that I have done, but because of the way that some people choose to lead their lives, and hurt those around them.

My father is the most caring, understanding, unconditionally-loving person I know. I'm so greatful that he and my Mom have raised my brothers and I to be open minded, caring for others, and accepting of who people really are. I know my father loves me, and that no matter what, he will always be there for me.

And that my father also loves the ones I love. I couldn't believe the hurt on his face when I let him know what was going on with someone we both care about. He was devistated to hear the pain and anguish being gone through this very minute, and how we can do nothing about it.

I love my Dad so very much.

Resources for the parents of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered youth

2006-08-21T19:32:00.000-04:00

http://www.bidstrup.com/parents.htm

I'm very sorry.

2006-08-20T17:30:00.000-04:00

Mrs. J, Please read the email that I have sent you, if you haven't already. With my love, and apologies, Sarah

Tagged : More Questions about Me

2006-08-19T11:58:00.000-04:00

Snagged from Deneen If you want to participate, please copy the questions to your blog 1. If you had to set your own work schedule; 8 hours per day; 5 days per week. Which days and hours would you choose? I like working early, and getting home early - so 4am to noon, Sunday to Thursday. 2. What Reality Show would you be on and why? Big Brother. I love the idea of chilling out all summer long, and having millions of people analyze why I'm brushing my teeth a certain way. 3. What is the last book you read? Number the Stars, by Louis Lowry. It was something my students were reading in school. 4. There are many songs that bring us back to a certain memory. What song(s) do you HATE to hear for that very reason? Better Man, by Pearl Jam 5. If you could go back in time to be any place in world history, what time would you choose and what country / place? 1950's middle class America. I would love to be that steretypical housewife with the two kids waiting for my partner to come home to a clean house and a home cooked meal. I loved the music, the clothes, and the tradition. (Well, other than the not liking gays thing.) 6. Do you know more than one language? Which one(s). Yeah, I can speak, write and understand Spanish and English, (both British and American) and I can understand Portuguese (Azorian dialect). 7. What is your favorite blog? Please link it. One only (Okay, I'll grant you two or three, I'm easy that way). Pink is the new Blog Cute Overload Awful Plastic Surgery, and it's partner Good Plastic Surgery 8. What is your favorite web site? If you mean the one I go to the most, it's msnbc.com 9. Your house is on fire, the people and pets you love are safe and you can grab one other "thing", what are you taking? The teddy bear that my grandfather gave me, that I bring with me when I travel. 10. You have $100 to spend in the next hour. How are you spending it? (Saving it or giving it away not permitted.) A new dress for an upcoming event. If you are participating, thanks so much!

Stamps? Of course you need 'em anyway!

2006-08-18T19:50:00.000-04:00

An email from my best bud Kara: Those of you know know me best know that autism awareness is a matter close to my heart. I wanted to let you know (so that you'll pass the word along...) that the new Autism Society of America stamps are coming out this Sept 11th. The Stamps will honor those affected by the tragedy of 9-11, and proceeds (20%!) will go to the Autism Society. For more info - click here. Thanks, and pass it on! Love, Kara Buy some! Buy many!

I need a new button.

2006-08-15T13:17:00.000-04:00

I need a button for my new site. If anyone can whip one up for me, I'd be very thankful. What I'm looking for, is something having a symbol for the US, a symbol for the UK, and a rainbow. My "dream" button would be an earth, with a rainbow streatched between the US and the UK. I'd also like the name of my blog (Sarah Moves to England) in it. Just drop me an email - sarahmovestoengland(at)yahoo(dot)com

Mom and Dad's Reaction

2006-08-15T13:08:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I let Mom and Dad know that I'm moving to the UK to be with Emma. I prefaced it by telling them that Emma had been happy at work, and was making more money there than she would be making here for many years. Mom was fine with it. "What an adventure!" and "Well, you're old enough now." She didn't seem to have any problems at all. My Dad cried. At least I think he did. He kept wiping his eyes. He asked me lots of questions - how was I going to earn money, how would I pay for healthcare, can I get over there on the visa I am looking into, what will I do. In the end, I left them to digest for a while. We'll see how today goes.

I'm Moving.

2006-08-14T17:35:00.000-04:00

I've waited to publish this decision until after I had talked with my family, but now I'm able to let my readers know. I'm moving to England. When I spent time with Emma this summer, she let me know that she did not want to return to school in the States. Things were going too well for her at home in the UK, and it made more sense for her to remain at home. Since I have been unhappy with my job for a while, it seemed to make sense to move in with her and her family, and save for a home of our own. It makes much more sense on so many levels. Here, Emma had to spend close to $10K a year for tutition and healthcare in order to remain in the country. At home, she gets free healthcare, and has a job making close to $40K a year. Although I am set with a job at the school I am working with, I've hit my limit as far as promotions go. I'd need to go to college for another 2-3 years in order to make the kind of money that would allow me to live as independently as I'd like to. In the UK, the job market is rather open for me. As far as the UK laws go, it is much easier for a homosexual couple to live. We can get married, adopt kids, have a house in both our names, have partner benifits, everything that a married hetero couple in the US can have. Now, don't get me wrong. The UK isn't all sunshine and roses. I have to go through the visa process in order to live there legally. The healthcare system is less skillful than what I am used to. I see my doc about every 3 months here in the States, and I've had the same one since I was about 16. There is this whole "Big Brother" thing about the UK, with all the ID cards, video cameras, and tv cards that kind of freaks me out. Then, there is the whole aspect of leaving my family. Although they are all in good health, there is always the worry that something will happen. I'll miss them like crazy. I've decided to begin a new blog about the process and how I'm dealing with it. Feel free to come and comment, and whatnot. Sarah Moves to England

Weight Loss Update - Week 3

2006-08-14T10:02:00.000-04:00

I had two big point meals this week. One morning, I went out for breakfast at Friendly's and got their mushroom, sausage, egg and swiss cheese sandwich, with a side of homefries and an english muffin. That meal alone cost me 36 points. I also went to Applebees, but I stayed under my 24 points that day. There is this whole underground mutation of Weight Watchers called "The Wendie Plan" that I seem to be following without even knowing it. Beginning of week 3 - 186.1 End of week 3 - 184.2 Amount lost week - 1.9 Amount lost total - 6.0

The Anxiety Takes Over

2006-08-13T15:51:00.000-04:00

Today's the day I've set aside in my mind to have a discussion with my parents over something pretty major. For the last week, I've been stressing over it, trying to calm myself with "You don't have to worry until Sunday." But Sunday is here, and I still haven't been able to sit down with Mom and Dad. I'm waiting for the "right moment", when they are both relaxing, having a beer, and chilling out on their deck. That moment hasn't come yet. Dad's working on the deck, Mom's in the garden. I was hoping to have it done before Emma calls me tonight, but with that about an hour away, I don't see that happening. My parents go to bed earlyish (8), so I have a pretty short window. I don't want to disrupt their activities with the stereotypical "I need to talk to you" type thing, but I do want to talk to them. I just want to get it over with, and start the process I need to. Talking to them is th first step in that process. I've already had a dry-run with breaking the news to a friend and my brother Abe. My friend's reaction was what I had hoped it would be, my brother's was a little less than enthusiastic. Argh.

Carry On Baggage Isn't Needed

2006-08-11T11:51:00.000-04:00

I think I've done trans-atlantic travel more than a dozen times in my life. Even before Sept. 11th, I really was frustrated by the amount of carry-on baggage that some people try and bring into the cabin. I realize that there are impatient people out there that don't like to wait the 10-20 mintes it takes go to and get your baggage from the claim area, so you just cram it all into a smallish suitcase and hope you can get it on the plane. I know I've had a few close connections where I had to bring my bags through customs before hopping on another plane, and it would have been easier just to avoid that whole mess with carry on. But really, it's just not needed. Seriously - why do you need shampoo on your carry on? I've tried to clean myself in those itty bitty sinks in the airplane lavs. You're not going to get a decent rinse. Need contact lense solution? Wear your glasses. That's what I do. You're not going to get a sunburn on the plane, so pack the sunblock. I know that there is pressure to look your best as you leave the plane. No one can say that they want to have bed-head when you see your girlfriend for the first time in four months. I have this silly solution. If I look that bad, I stop by the lav after I get my baggage and sort myself out, or I wear a bandana on my head. No need to pack any gel or mousse. Yes, I get as bored on 8 hour flights as anyone else. I can see the attraction to bring your iPod or portable DVD player. I praise the DVD gods for those little tvs that keep the kiddies on the plane quiet. But, as a teacher, I was introduced to these wonderful things called books. Coloring books, SuDoKu books, story books, crosswords, magazines, there are loads of non-battery powered items for your entertainment. This is the best time to "spoil" your son with those video game mags, skateboard catalogues, and comic books. Your teenie girl might like those baby-Vogue type mags. Break out those mini-tubs of Play-doh. (And you don't have to clean the carpet!) A deck of cards goes far, too. I know that some people use this time to catch up on work on their laptop - I've got no solution for that one, yet. Drinks are a toughie. I know I get pretty dried out when I fly, but that can all be solved by one thing: ask the stweards for some water. Yeah, my skin dries out too, but I honestly never thought of packing my $30 moisturizer in my carry on. I just load it on before I leave, and load in on when I land. I have one of those old-fashioned train cases that I always use for my carry on. It's about a foot across and six inches deep. It fits right under the seat in front of me. I carry my meds, a bottle of water, my wallet, passport and tickets, lip balm, gum, a skein of yarn and my fav crochet hook. I can deal with getting rid of most of that, to make the lines a bit smaller at the airports. The day might come sooner than later that carry on bags are at a strict minimum. Keep the meds, the baby formula, the juice for the little ones. Get rid of the rest. I welcome that day.

Jajah's Free Phone Calls

2006-08-10T20:00:00.000-04:00

I usually don't advertise stuff in my blog posts, but I came across something today that I have to share. I found a way to make free phone calls. Real phone calls, on real phones - no headsets, no prepaid stuff. http://www.jajah.com I registered with the site, and had to fill out a very short forum with my info. I didn't have to put in any info like credit cards or SSNs, just my phone number, and my email addie. I emailed Emma, and she did the same. Then, I called her. The way it works, is that you input the number you want to call. Jajah calls you, then connects you to the person you are calling. Most land-line to land-line phones are free. They make their money other ways, (sms messaging, calls to mobile phones, etc.) You can read their FAQ here. It really does sound too goo to be true, but I did some research, and I didn't find anyone outting them as scammers.

The Big One

2006-08-10T10:24:00.000-04:00

In case you haven't heard, British authorities have thrawted a major plot to blow up trans-atlantic flights leaving the UK. According to MSNBC.com, it was supposed to take place close to the 5 year anniversary of September 11th. It involved 10 planes, and they were supposed to explode simuntaneously. The plot targeted flights on United, Continental, American, and British Airways. US officials are calling this the "Big One". Emma and her Grandmother are scheduled to fly one of those airlines, from England, to a major hub in the USA, on September 2nd. I've never had any problems with extra security measures. Today, you can't have any carry-on items, except perscription drugs, baby formula, and juice for small children. These items need to be carried onto the plane in a transparent plastic bag. No electronics at all, no beverages, no books or newspapers, no makeup or hair products, no toothpaste. All of these things need to go into your checked baggage, or the trash. It looks like that the lines are massive, but the folks seem to be understanding. I've been flying for years now. Emma flew 3 weeks after September 11th. I think I'm more nervous now than I was then. Just now, it came across the tv that there was an attempted hijacking of a Qatar Airways flight that has been foiled. Al Jazeera interviewed the people on the plane, and were told that the individual was mentally disabled, and that in fact, it might not have been an actual hijacking attempt. Just another thing to worry about on this chaotic day.

Weight Loss Update - Week 1 & 2

2006-08-07T19:54:00.000-04:00

I started off the week well. I was really hungry for the first few days, but then I think my body got used to the lack of being full 24/7. Beginning weight - 190.2 End of week 1 - 186.8 Amount lost week 1- 3.4 Amount lost total - 3.4 Then I went camping. I'm really pleased that I lost any weight at all, figuring all the crap that I ate. I still stayed on program, though. Beginning of week 2 - 186.8 End of week 2 - 186.1 Amount lost week - 0.7 Amount lost total - 4.1

Alphabet Mind Games.

2006-08-07T19:17:00.000-04:00

I have this thing where I can't sleep at night unless there is noise going on. While camping, I did not have the luxury of keeping a tv on all night to be sure that I get a good night's sleep. But, I have found a game that for some reason, helped me from going insane with sleeplessness. I went through lists of things, making one for each letter of the alphabet. Letters in brackets are ones that I wasn't able to come up with. I would appreciate anyone's help on missing words. Round 1: Animals of the Alphabet ape, babboon, cow, dog, elephant, fawn, gibbon, hawk, iguana, jaguar, kangaroo, lemur, monkey, newt, orangutan, pig, quail, rat, snake, tiger, [u, v,] walrus, [x,] yeti, zebra Round 2: Foods of the Alphabet apple, banana, carrot, date, egg, fig, ginger, horseradish, ice cream, jello, ketchup, lemon, meatballs, orange, peas, quail, rice, spaghetti, tea, [u,] veal, watermelon, [x,] yam, zabaione Those were from the first night. After that, I was only able to do one round a night before I fell asleep. Round 3: Four syllable words of the Alphabet architecture, biology, cantankerous, detrimental, elephantine, Floridian, geology, hypodermic, institution, juvenile, Kangamangus, labotomy, mechanical, narcissistic, obviously, pressurizing, quarentining, romanticize, sympathetic, tyrannical, uintended, varigated, [w,] xenophobic, [y,] zoology Round 4: Five syllable words of the Alphabet alienation, biological, creationism, demonology, ecological, fraternization, geological, hysterectomy, irrationally, juxtoposition, [k], luminocity, methodology, necrophelia, oligarcical, patriotism, quintessentialy, reciprocity, systematically, trigonometry, unbelievable, vigilantism, westernization, xenophobia, [y], zoological

Back home from Camping

2006-08-07T18:58:00.000-04:00

Hey all. I'm back from camping. Obviously, I wasn't able to blog while I was gone. My tricky father "mistakenly" told me that there was internet, when, alas, there was not. It was a good get away, nothing too exciting happened, save the bear walking through out campsite. More on that later. Wed., Day 1: Dad, Paige, and I (in the RV), Mom (in the truck), Abe and Rachel (in Rachel's car) were the beginning convoy to the campsite. We stayed at the Lost River Campsite, in Woodstock, NH. I do recommend it to anyone. Aaron drove up later that night, and stayed with us. After we set up the site, we chilled out around the campground. I slept in the tent that Abe and Rachel had set up. Thurs., Day 2: Aaron went home that morning. He had to work. Abe, Rachel, and I drove to the top of Mt. Washington. Little did we realize that it was going to cost $34 to get to the top. It was 98'F at the base, 56"F at the top. Although it was very foggy and misty, it was still a cool drive. I slept in the single tent that Aaron left behind. Fri., Day 3: Abe and Rachel went home. Saul and Grandma drove up to spend the day with us. I spent the day with Paige at the RV while everyone else went exploring. I made dinner that night, good ole campfire style. Five packets of chicken, onions, and potatoes in foil packets. Two flavored with BBQ, two with Buffalo, and one plain one, and tossed onto coals to cook. Everyone said it came out perfectly. I was rather impresed. To top it off, I crafted a reflector oven out of a cardboard beer case, and tin foil, and baked up some chocolate chip cookies. I slept in the RV so that Saul could have the tent for himself. Tonight began the marathon alphabet games in my head. (More on those in my next blog post.) Sat., Day 4: Saul and Grandma went home. While cleaning up from lunch, a juvenile bear walked through our campsite. Mom saw it first, and screamed. She grabbed Paige and ran into the RV. Only once she was in did she let me know she saw a bear and told me to take cover. I ran into the RV with everyone. Paige started groweling. It was getting closer, and I remembered what I read in the pamphlet that the campsite owners gave us - make noise to scare it away. I clapped my hands, it crossed back over the river, and left us alone for the rest of our time there. Sun., Day 5: For the first time in many years, it was just my Mom, Dad, and I on vacation. We packed up the truck, and headed to a local gorge to play in the water. I found a way to travel down about 100 meters on natural rock-waterslides, and the rest of the people who were at the same spot followed my lead. Paige got so excited, and wanted to go down too, but Dad thought it best that she not. I got some sun, which is rare for me. Mon., Day 6: It poured the night before, so instead of going out like we had planned, we ended up watch my Lost dvd's all morning, and packing up the site to go home. Dad did about 75mph the whole drive home, so we made pretty decent time. I have pics. I'll post them laters.

Tagged : Odd things about Me

2006-08-01T19:49:00.000-04:00

Su tagged me again. Six things that I do that other people think is odd: I bring a rather large teddy bear with me everytime I fly. It began as a security thing, but I've learned that it is probably the best airplane pillow anyone could ever make. Everytime I have a "good" (read heavy) night out drinking, I do my best to eat a cheeseburger before I go to bed. Even if it's 4am, I'm exhausted, and full of booze, I need a burger. It's the one true hangover-preventative I've found that works for me. I hate wearing things on my feet. As soon as the weather is somewhat warm, (March-ish) I wear sandals. When I'm home, I'm barefoot. I usually try my best to hold off wearing real shoes until October. I've been wearing the same pair of earrings for about 4 years now. I do take them out to clean a few times a year, but these are one of the few pairs I've ever had that don't hurt my ears. I can squirt water through the hole in my face - my labret piercing. I've owned every animal that I am allergic to, as a pet: cat, dog, bird, and hamster. Okay. Now I'm tagging Kara, Deneen, Kelly, and Abe-O.

Camping Trip!

2006-08-01T10:11:00.000-04:00

I'm going camping in New Hampshire tomorrow. It's a big ole family thing. I'm going with the puppy Paige, Mom, Dad, three brothers, one soon-to-be-sisiter-in-law, Grandma, and possibly friends of said brothers. We got two camping sites, and my father rented a wicked RV. I was a little upset that I wouldn'y be able to talk to Emma for a week (unless I used my cell phone - UBER charges), but then my father lets me know the good news. THE RV HAS INTERNET! Can you believe it? I thought these things barely had running water. I'm so psyched now. I'm bringing the laptop, and will be a fully functional blogger during this time. Woot.

One of those Quiz Thingies

2006-07-30T20:37:00.000-04:00

Su tagged me a while back, and I should get around to it! 1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18, and find line 4. "10 feet wide and long. There is an exit to the north that is..." 2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can. What can you touch? couch 3. What is the last thing you watched on TV? Superman, the first movie 4. Without looking, guess what time it is. 11am 8:30pm 5. Now look at the clock. What is the actual time? 8:32pm 6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear? My brother and my friend playing Battlefront II on X-Box. 7. When did you last step outside? What were you doing? About an hour ago, to put out the garbage. 8. Before you started this survey, what did you look at? Su's blog. 9. What are you wearing? A white t-shirt and pink pj pants. 10. Did you dream last night? Not that I remember 11. When did you last laugh? At my brother Abe, about 10 minutes ago. 12. What is on the walls of the room you are in? 5 paintings, a clock, a plate, a dozen photos. 13. Seen anything weird lately? I saw a frog this morning that had a blue tint to it. That was kind of odd. 14. What do you think of this quiz? Pretty quick. 15. What is the last film or video you saw? Other than the one on tv now, I watched a documentary on Shangri-La 16. If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy? Airline tickets to go see Em - first class! 17. Tell me something about you that I don’t know. I can wiggle my ears. 18. If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do? Create a method of controlling who has children. 19. Do you like to dance? Yup! 20. Comment to George Bush: When can I get married? 21. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her? Lily Cora 22. Imagine your first child is a boy, what do you call him? Thomas Joseph 23. Would you ever consider living abroad? Duh! Yes. 24. What do you want God to say to you when you reach the pearly gate? Your Papa's been watching you, and he is very proud. 25. 4 people who must also do this quiz on THEIR blog. Abe Rachel M&M Kara

FAQ on Recent Events

2006-07-28T12:10:00.000-04:00

Wow! 20-something emails this morning all on the same thing! Keep them coming. I seem to be getting a lot of the same questions, though. I'll do my best to keep you all updated. Q: What exactly is "Coventry"? A: "Coventry" is a settling available to admins of the PhP forums. It puts the targeted user on all member's ignore list. The user who has been sent to Coventry is able to post, send and read PMs, read as usual. But all other users on the site cannot read the Coventry user's posts, PMs, or any other thing put out by the confined user. Q: Were you the only one sent to "Coventry"? A: As far as I know, yes. Q: How come there was a difference between the number of users listed as being on the site, and the number of usernames listed? A: There is an option for users to be listed as "invisible". This means that no one (other than the mods and admins) can see what you are looking at, where you are posting, and if you are active. It counts you as a member online, but will not list your username. Q: Why were they so upset when you mentioned something about the invisible users? A: I'm really not sure. My guess would be that either they didn't want me pointing out that there were people online who weren't listed, or they just felt like snapping at me. Q: How were you able to see who was doing what, if you aren't an admin? A:If you add "online.php" to the end of the URL of the forum, you can see who is online. For example, the forum I help run is called eHacked. http://forums.ehacked.com/ is the regular url http://forums.ehacked.com/online.php gives you the list of who is online Q: Why were you banned? A: The only official reason I got was I've posted below - I pissed David off. There was no point that I was able to post after I was sent to Coventry, but before I was banned, so what was a Coventry offence one minute changed to a bannable offence the next. Q: But weren't others doing the same things you were? A: Others were trying to make the same point I was, but I was doing it in a manner that was probably seen as more damaging to the admin's reasoning. Q: Isn't this the same thing that happened over at Crochetville? A: In my opinion, yes. Q: Was anyone else banned? A:Yes, one other member, Kelly, was banned. Others have chosen to leave on their own. There are also members who let the admins know they were "taking a break", and their membership has been terminated, even though they wished to remain members. Q: Where can we go now? A: I suggest Crafster.org. It's a huge, well established crafting board with every type of craft imaginable. It's very well run. You are also welcome at eHacked (where I admin), but it's rather adult, and not craft related at all. Q: Have any of the admins been in contact with you? A: Nope. I don't expect them to, either. Q: But I thought they were against censorship, and they would never ban members for speaking their mind? A: Me too.

I am what I hate.

2006-07-28T09:59:00.000-04:00

I stand for the anonymous masses, but I chide those who don't come forward. I never apologize for my actions, but I let others say their sorries for me. I am not a bully, but I try to intimidate those around me. I make fun of the losers, but correct others who follow my lead. I abhore censorship, but I hide words that question my own. I left a forum because of the admin's actions, but I became what I left. I encouage all opinions, until they are different than mine. I team up with others to put up a wall, but I feel attacked when the other side bonds. I am what I hate, but I don't see what I am.

My end at the DoD

2006-07-27T17:37:00.001-04:00

In the last 24 hours or so, there was a major eruption at the Dreams of Dogwood forum. As a result of my actions, I have been banned from the site, along with others. I've had a few hours to reflect on what I said, what others have said, and what I have been told has happened since. Since a lot of the cool DoD chickies read this blog, I thought I'd share a few thoughts. One of the hardest thing for a person to do is apologize. It's even harder for someone to realize that they in fact can be wrong about things. It's a huge shock to the system to be told by so many people from so many different perspectives that you are absolutely wrong about something. One reaction to that could be accepting those words, and taking a step back. The other reaction is to lash out, and save face, even when your words make little sense, and contradict themselves. The latter often sparks off more discussion, more attempts to correct a person in their ways, which spirals to more attacks, more contradictions. This goes on and on until it wavers out of control, and an authority figure puts their foot down. But where this foot is put down makes a great difference. Ending a conversation mid-stream leads to bias, on "who got the last word". The feelings are still there, the confusion is still there. Little is done other than create an atmosphere of favoritism. Favoritism and censorship go hand-in-hand. When rules are made to eliminate a certain topic of discussion, the brush should be wide. No one, including those running a forum, should be permitted to have their posts remain, while others are taken down. I believe that people running a forum should lead by example, and should follow the same rules and guidelines that they expect their member's to follow. If they require that members step forward themselves into the open with complaints, than they should not play the spokesperson to the anonymous. If there is a hope for open and honest dialogue, than people shouldn't be punished for their differing opinions. Posts should never be deleted simply because they didn't make the administration team feel good. Of course, I realize that forums are privately owned and operated. Rules are set up from the start, and changed when it's needed. But they shouldn't be altered and changed just to eliminate a single person, idea, or subject. If your desire as the runner of a forum is to have a private circle of those who agree with your thoughts, let your users know that from the get-go. And again, follow your own rules. I find it slightly ironic that I've once defended the very bully that I came to locking horns with. And that I defended her against accusations of being a bully to a different group of people. I see now that I was very wrong, and I apologize to those at Crochetville who tried to make me aware that past actions really do carry forward. You all have the right to leave the comment "I told you so." One thing that made me very proud of the friends that I made at DoD, is that so many of them stood up for what they believed in, and tried their best to add constructive comments to the confusion. I knew right away that I wasn't the only one having the thought that the situation seemed vaguely familiar of other forums we have been members of. None of them backed down, and all of them were mature in handling their absolute disgust with the issue at hand. For that, I applaud you. That's all for now. I'm sure I'll add more later, as the week goes on, and more details trickle down to my level.

Hmmmmm.

2006-07-27T14:46:00.000-04:00

You have been banned for the following reason: YOU PISSED DAVID OFF Date the ban will be lifted: Never

My own "Love Biography"

2006-07-27T09:50:00.000-04:00

I edited names and locations. Emma and I met during the summer of 2001. I was employed as a assistant waterfront director at Camp LaTiDah, in Rhode Island, USA. She was a unit leader at the same camp, and was part of a program called "Camp America", that brought internationals to work for the summer. As this was a residential camp, the work time and relaxation time was always spent with your co-workers. I spent time in Emma's unit, and as time went on, we grew to know eachother on a more detailed level. I always thought she was a beautiful girl with a quick whit and brilliant personality, and started to persue a more loving relationship. We shared our first kiss on July 25th of that summer, and we celebrate that now as our "anniversary day". After the summer ended, Emma lived with my family and I for the next 2 months. We spent this time house-sitting for a mutual friend. It was like we had our own little house to ourselves, even if only for 3 weeks. Before Emma's work visa expired, we traveled many places around where I lived, ending our time together in New York City. When Emma left that October, a few weeks later, I travelled to the UK for the first time to meet her family. After that trip, we did not see eachother again for six months. This was the longest time we had ever spent apart, and we vowed then and there, never to be separated that long ever again. We called eachother almost daily, and chatted online everyday. I spent hundreds (maybe closer to thousands) of dollars on calling cards. Even though we had this daily contact, it was not the same as being together. I miss her dearly when she is not around, but we have learned to cope with the separation. Since then, we have been separated often, but never for more than 3 months at a time. I have travelled to the UK over a dozen times to be with her, and she has done the same travelling to see me. We estimate that we have spent more than $7000 just traveling to see eachother over the years we have been together. Recently, Emma has enrolled at Bristol Community College, in Massachusettes, in order that we could spend more time together on a permanant level. Last year, she spent over $9000 of her own money to pay for tuition, so that we could live together for that year. Emma and I have several interests in common. She has taught me about English football, and I know follow it almost as enthusiasticly as she does. When Emma joined a soccer team at college, I made sure I was at every game, cheering her on. I crochet in my spare time, and Emma went out of her way to learn the stitches, so that we can create things together. We cook together, play pool, go to movies, and other "coupley" things. I am a teacher, and Emma comes into my classroom once a week to work with my special needs students. They think she is great! She even got me to join a gym - a feat in itself. We both love travel, and have taken many vacations together. In the United Kingdom, we have done long-weekends in London, York, Blackpool, Edinburgh, Brighton, and Manchester. We have spend time in Europe, in Barcelona, Ibiza, and Mallorca. In the USA, we have vacationed in New York City, Las Vegas, and New Hampshire. During the summer of 2003, we took a 2000 mile road trip from my home in Rhode Island, to Miami Beach, Florida. We stopped over in several cities, including Daytona Beach and Washington DC. Emma and our relationship is special to me in so many ways. She had never been in a lesbian relationship before, I felt I had to be more careful and understanding in the beginning stages of our relationship. Because of this, I got to know her much better before things turned to a sexual nature. Emma's personality (a calm, organized, level-headed, forward thinker) balances mine out fantasticly. During times when my family and I have gone through health concerns and untimely deaths, she has been there as the rock of support I need. When I have my own health concerns, she has been there to nurse me back to health. Without her, I know I wouldn't be the person I am today. Emma and I have dealth with separations before, and they are always heart-wrenching and painful. If we had to continue our relationship as it is now, with periods of separation, to the point that I have physical symptoms related to the depression caused by our separations. I feel that we won't be able to achieve the dreams we have for ourselves if we have to continue to be separated. If permitted to live in England with Emma, we plan on getting a house of our own, and eventually, adopt children. This is much more possible to do with the laws the way that they are in the UK, as far as same-sex couples are concerned.

Write your "Love Biography"

2006-07-26T09:56:00.000-04:00

As part of an application I am filling out (not for a job, but more important), I have to provide evidence of my continual relationship with Emma. One example provided is an essay, written by me, explaining the following: 3. A covering letter from each of you detailing most, but not necessarily all of the following:

How and when you met.

How and why the relationship developed.

If you’ve spent time apart - why, and how you felt during this time.

Your shared social activities and hobbies.

Milestones in your relationship such as moving in together or going on hols.

What makes your relationship special for you.

What makes your partner special for you.

Future plans you may have.

How you would feel if you were forced to be apart.
Shouldn't everyone do this, at least once in your lifetime? I'll share mine, when completed.

100 Things About Me.

2006-07-25T11:57:00.000-04:00

To keep with the current trend in blog posts, here are 100 random things about me. I am an Aries. I live in a house inhabited by 8 other people, a cat, a dog, and a crab. My favorite number is 23. I only wear makeup when my girlfriend asks me to. I watch way too much tv. I have only worn socks once in the last 3 months. I remember what "OK Soda" was, and I make it myself out of Cola and Orange Soda. I don't know my credit score. I am one of those people who didn't save money by switching to Geiko. I love playing roulette at casinos. The only reason I don't quit my job is because of the kids I teach. I bought a Nintendo DS just so I could play Animal Crossing. My grandmother's family is from Portugal. When someone scrapes their fork on their plate it freaks me out like nails on a chalkboard. My favorite color is grey. I have four tattoos and three piercings. I have two future sisters-in-law that are really cool. If their boyfriends break up with them, I'll be mad. My favorite flavor potato chips are sour cream and chive. I learned how to crochet from the internet. I fear turning 30. I am a registered democrat, but I find myself more conservative as I get older. I could keep my tv on FoodTV, CourtTV and MSNBC all day, and be happy. I love it when my girlfriend tickles my feet. I am right handed. It's been about 15 years since I always wrote in cursive. My brothers and I were all named after Biblical figures. My family members are non-practicing Roman Catholics. I do believe in God. When I crave food, it's usually food from Chili's. I watch WWE Wrestling. I read "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy in one summer, and I want to do it again. I am a "lipstick" lesbian, even though I don't wear lipstick. My dream vacation would be a 20-day Mediterranean cruise that stops at many ancient ruins. I went to college for more than four years, and didn't finish my degree. My boss tells me I'm overqualified for my job, but underqualified for the next step up. I am a certified lifeguard. I am also an ordained minister in the Universal Life Church. I hated 7th grade. I believe in ghosts. My great grandmother was named Maria. So were her three other sisters. Before I met my girlfriend, I was going to name my first daughter "Emma". Today is my 5 year anniversary. I've never broken any bones. I had to get stitches in 3rd grade when I fell off a see-saw and landed on my chin. My favorite teacher in school was my Spanish teacher, Mr. Cardullo. The first time I went to New York City was in 8th grade. My favorite ice cream is Ben & Jerry's Coffee Heath. I've owned 4 computers in my life. I hate the taste of black licorice. If I have no where to do during the day, I often just wear PJs while I am at home. I don't own an iPod. I am lactose intolerant. I've only been in once car accident since I have been driving, and it was when a deer ran into me. I can put my foot behind my head. I prefer the manny, Perry over Kevin Federline. I make the best cheesecake known to mankind. I own a Magic Bullet - the food processor, not the vibe. I don't understand the attraction to SpongeBob Sqaurepants. I've done the dine-and-dash once. By mistake. I only like my eggs scrambled. I love bacon. My dog always sleeps on her back with her paws in the air. I talk in my sleep. I left my wallet in a bar in Barcelona last New Year's Eve. I support Manchester United Football Club. I have light brown eyes. I have over 30,000 frequent flyer miles on US Airways. I once owned an original Nintendo game called Princess tomato and the Salad Kingdom. My mom graduated college the same year I grad'ded from high school. I've traveled by train more in the UK than in the USA. My first cat was named Bo Diddley. My favorite drink is a White Chocolate martinis. I was in New York city two weeks after 9/11, and Emma was in London two weeks after 7/7. Bobby Brown and Whitney Houston scare me. My bedroom has red walls. I have a lego Yoda. The majority of the torrents I have downloaded are historical documentaries. In college, I took a film class on horror movies. I have double jointed thumbs. During the SARS scare, I was quarantined to my home for 10 days. I have a fear of falling, and I don't go on roller coasters. I've never worn suspenders. When I bake, I often eat the raw dough. I think that pink-dyed poodles look stupid. I have freckles. I feel that The Gradual sucks. I've never been to a restaurant on Federal Hill. I was voted "Class Sweetheart" with my then-boyfriend when I was in high school. I bought my cell phone on eBay. Every Christmas, my brothers and I decorate ginger bread houses. I have comment moderation on my blog to prevent spam, not censor. I love thunderstorms. The last movie I saw in the theaters was the first Pirates of the Caribbean. Every summer, I buy three cheap pairs of sunglasses, and they are all lost by the end of the summer. According to Weight Watchers, I am allowed 24 points a day. I take my coffee two ways. They naughty way is with heavy cream and heavy sugar. The diet way is skim milk and Splenda. I have a slight hole in my palliate that I can breathe through. I have Melina from WWE as my desktop image. I love grape popsicles. This hundred items took me forever to do.

Headaches, Heartaches, and Hunger

2006-07-24T21:28:00.000-04:00

I'm so not in the mood to blog, but it's been a while. Might as well make a post of short sentences. Maybe it'll get the negativity out of my system. I miss Emma. It's our 5 year anniversary tomorrow. She's still in the UK, and I won't see her again until September 2nd. I chat with her everyday, and she calls me when she can, but it's nothing like being together in real life. I've had a migrane for about 3 days now. I think it's because of the weather, and the thunderstorm that just won't come. I haven't crocheted a stitch since I've been back. Come to think of it, I haven't done squat since I got back. I haven't even unpacked yet. Diets don't suck. Cravings do. Three people I have looked up to (in a way) have disappointed me. Even though I only knew then through the internet, it kind of sucks when people you thought were the anti-bullies just turn out to be bullies in different forms. Bullies suck. Bullies who brag about sticking together to bully suck even more. My dog gets mopey when I do. We're a pair, the two of us right now. It's not all bad, though. Emma wrote me an email that says "Don't read until July 25th" in the subject line. She's such a cutie. I found paperwork I was looking for (for something I'll get into at a later date), and it looks dead easy to fill out. Now, it's a matter of finding a functioning printer to print it all out. I got my Weight Watchers books in to day, and it looks pretty simple to keep track of.

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jig

2006-07-21T10:58:00.000-04:00

I'm back at home now, in Tiverton. I got in last night, around 8pm after a delay of about four hours. I got to sleep right away, after my puppy Paige gave me a bath with her kisses. I've decided on a few things since I was with Emma. One of them is that I'm going on a diet. A real one. I've never been all too fussed about my weight. I've always been fine with my apprearance. But, over vacation, I developed two serious stretch marks on my stomach. I no longer fit into any of Emma's clothes, which we used to be able to share. I went on eBay and got a Weight Watcher's kit. I looked into joining Weight Watchers itself, but I've never been one to go to meetings and all that. I'd rather go it alone. We'll see how it goes. According to the charts there, I should weigh 135lbs, which is about 50lbs less than I am. I did weight that much once, about 10 years ago. We'll see how long it takes me to lose all that weight. Just another thing to blog about, I suppose.

UK Bloggin' - Chestnut Centre

2006-07-17T06:50:00.000-04:00

Saturday, Girlfriend (who I will now use her real name, Emma) and I went to the Chestnut Centre, about an hours drive from the house. It's a 50 acre nature reserve, with a focus on otters and owls. I saw an ad for it on the tv, and like any whiney girl would do, I begged and begged to go, so I could see the baby otters. Em was a little iffy when she found out there was a £6 entrance fee, but in the end, we both said it was well worth it. After a nice stroll through the fields, talking about dreams, aspirations, and whatnot, we got to the otters! We took a total of 68 pictures, but I'll share the nicer ones with you. Here are the best otter shots we got. All images are clickable, as ususal. Second best to the otters were the owls. There was this one little fluffy baby that just loved Emma. They played hide-and-go-seek for a good while. We contemplated owl-napping it, although its Mom didn't look too thrilled about us being there, playing with the little one. They also had some random animals, like foxes, bunnies, and guinea pigs. Yeah, guinea pigs in a nature reserve...I thought it was odd, too. But, they looked much happier then they do at my local pet shop.

UK Bloggin' - Chapel-en-le-Frith

2006-07-13T16:38:00.000-04:00

Today, I finally got to look around the town I am staying in. Girlfriend's Dad took me for about a 2 hour walking tour of the village. After a 10 minute walk, we got to the stocks that have been in the town for ages. I was tempted to take a pic of me inside them, but I didn't want to get too touristy. After that, we came upon was the chapel that has been in the town since 1226. Chapel-en-le-Frith means "chapel in the forest" in French, and this is the chapel the name references. There weren't any signs prohibiting photography at this church, and the yeoman inside didn't seem to be bothered my my picture taking. The church is deticated to St. Thomas, so the stained glass represented him and and his miracles. The arches had these cool faces at the bottoms, where they connected to the walls of the church. When we left the church, we walked through the village, to the park in the center of town. There, I sat and watched a game of crown green bowls. It was a league game of the local veterans. One of the older men there tried to explain it to me, but I got thrown off by his accent. When the game was over, we walked back to Girlfriend's house. Nice day, overall.

UK Bloggin' - Drunken Parties and Fun

2006-07-11T08:07:00.000-04:00

Friday night, Girlfriend and I went to the local pub to celebrate the birthday of a friend of a friend. More an excuse to go out and get "pissed" than anything else. I had a good time, as did Girlfriend. I drank these lovely things called "Cheeky Vimtos", which is a shot of port wine, and a bottle of Blue Wkd mixed together. Absolutely beautiful. I had three and a half of them. Girlfriend had 4 pints of lager, and we walked home blissfully drunk. Thank goodness the pub is less than half a mile from her home. Wednesday night was BIL's birthday, and once again, we celebrated with drink. After a fab BBQ at Girlfriend's house, we walked down to the pub, watched Big Brother on the big screen, and chatted about the language differences between American English and British English. I had a Reef and a Bailey's on ice, Girlfriend had a pair of Blue Wkds. Saturday night, we're going to another party and getting "assholed", or so I've been told. We'll see how that goes. I'm going to email Dad for his awesome margarita recipe and see if I can whip it up for the party.

UK Bloggin' - Plague Village

2006-07-10T07:51:00.000-04:00

Eyam (pronounced "Eem") is a small village about an hour away from where I'm staying. The village is best known for being the "plague village" that chose to isolate itself when the Black Death was found in the village in August 1665, rather than see the infection travel further north. So when Girlfriend's Dad asked me if I wanted to stop there on the way back from Chatsworth House, I said "YES!". As we went through the town, the houses had plaques on them, describing who lived in the house during the plague, who survived, and who didn't. The funny thing is, these houses are inhabited now. So as we "ooo"ed and "ahhh"ed over lists of dead people, these residents were having a BBQ in their front garden. We wondered through the town for a bit, when we came onto a rather old looking church. It was open to the public, so Girlfriend and I popped in for a looksie. I'm a sucker for stained glass and religious history, so I was in my element. Although about half way through the time we had inside, we found a sign that said "No photos, please", we did manage to snap a few shots. Don't worry, we left a sizable donation in the collections box to apologize for the picture-taking. Here are my favorite images out of the collection. Click the thumbnails for larger images.

UK Bloggin' - Chatsworth House

2006-07-10T07:27:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, Girlfriend, her parents, and I went on a road-trip to see Chatsworth House. It's the home of the Duke and Dutchess of Devonshire. The estate is surrounded by enormous fields filled with sheep and deer, as well as an Elizabethan garden. We explored the farm and garden shop first, where Girlfriend donned this oh-so-sexy hat. Yeah, I'm not quite sure why there is a Mexican sombrero in the middle of an English farm shop, but she looked silly just the same. After we looked around the shop, we headed to one of the courtyards. There was a time-line there of the various lives of the Dukes who lived in the estate. Girlfriend and her mum took a while looking at it, while I hummed "Henry the VII" to myself. We didn't actually go inside the house for the tour. Admission was £9 a person, which is about $16. So we just stood outside the gate and took some more pics. That's me, in red. I bought a tea-towel for my Grandma.

UK Bloggin' - Well Dressing

2006-07-06T11:26:00.000-04:00

There is a rather unique tradition in the part of England I am staying in. Every July, the residents of the town "dress up" their water wells. Although most of these wells are no longer used, they are still functional. Lately, the tradition has been to frame wet clay, and push flower petals into the clay to create a picture. These pictures are centered around a theme, this year's being "Proverbs and Sayings". One of these wells, called "Nanny's Well" was about half a mile from Girlfriend's house, so her dad and I went for a walk to see it. Here's the little plaque on the cover of it, explaining what it was. There were two sayings at this well. This one is "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." And this smaller one is "Don't judge a book by its cover." Yes, it's Shrek.

UK Bloggin' - Heatwave and BUFAs II

2006-07-05T07:21:00.000-04:00

Heatwave. In England. Yeah, I know, sounds silly. This past week, the temps have been in the 90s, and unlike at home when you have a nice thunderstorm at the end of the day to clear out all the heat, I have yet to see a drop of rain for about 5 days. Yes. No rain in England. I swear, I'm not joking. On the topic of "British UnFinished Articles", here's what I've been working on. This is Mom and Dad's christmas gift in the works. I think I'm calling it "Country Ivy". Brother #2's Harry Potter inspired blanked. And Brother #1's ripple afghan - my first ripple ever.

UK Bloggin' - Eccles Pike

2006-06-30T10:08:00.000-04:00

With Girlfriend working during the day, I have spent a lot of time with her parents, watching tv, and catching up on crochet. I think the 'rents have noticed I was going a little stirr crazy, so they asked me if I wanted to go for a drive to Eccles' Pike. I do enjoy a drive in the country, so I hopped in the car, and off we went. Eccles' Pike is on the tippity top of one of the larger hills in the area. Girlfriend lives in a valley, so we are surrounded by these peak. T & L, (Girlfriend's parents) spent the next hour pointing out places of importance in their lives, their parents lives, and even in Girlfriend's life. I got to see really how small the towns are here, and how certain villages are growing more than others. One of the things that I've always loved about going to this part of England, is that everything is so vibrantly green. There are so many shades, dotted with white sheep and the occasional grey mule. All the farms are separated with hedge-rows (yes, I do occasionally get Stairway to Heaven stuck in my head). There was a storm rolling in this afternoon, so you really couldn't see much of a blue sky. At the top of Eccle's Pike, there is this metal sculpture called the "topography". If you stand in the center of if, and look in a certain direction, it explains to you what you are looking at. It has both carved in illustrations of the countryside, as well as town names. I thought it was pretty nifty, myself. The landscape hasn't changed much in the time this sculpture has been in the ground, that's for sure. Here's a close up of a few spots on the sculpture. The images are click-able for a better view.

UK Bloggin' - Sleepless Nights

2006-06-29T07:05:00.000-04:00

I think I have the worst case of jetlag I've had in the ump-teen times I've been over here. What I usually do on the first day here is sleep as soon as I arrive. That way, I have some energy to be functional for the first day. Then, when it's time for bed (10-ish in these parts), take a sleeping pill. Generally, after that first night, I've been golden. No problems at all. This time, very different. Even taking sleeping pills, the earliest I've fell asleep this week has been 2am. Last night, I finally dozed off after about 3:30ish. In the morning, I'm not waking up until noon-ish. Which gets me lots of chuckles and fun-poking when I do make my way downstairs for lunch. I really do just need to bite the bullet, and get up when Girlfriend does (7am). I'll be screwed up that day, but I think it's what I need to set my body-clock right. I never realized how I was so used to the outside noises back home. I live near wetlands, so my nights are filled with frog-singing, crockets, and the occasional car racing down the street. Seven people live in my house, working all different hours, so I always hear some commotion going on in the house. My housemates also snore. Loudly. I'm the type of person who can't fall asleep in silence, so it's not a bother at all. Here, I'm staying near train-tracks. I never hear them during the day, but I think there's a train an hour all night long. No frogs. No crickets. No commotion. No cars. No snoring. Just the occasional train. I never really understood the phrase "the silence is deafening" until being up at 2am, and wide awake.

UK Bloggin' - BUFAs I

2006-06-28T12:31:00.000-04:00

BUFA - British UnFinished Articles. I just thought it was funny, since "bufa" is fart in slang Portuguese. That's a shout-out to you, Nee-nee! Here's what I've been working on...

This is the Cookie Monster messenger bag. I've just got a bit of the strap left, and maybe I'll make some cookie button closers. Here's a Hello Kitty handbag. I just need to track down some felt for the eyes and nose, and a yarning needle for the whiskers. And a little amigurumi mouse that I have in this pattern book. That's pretty much it. Here are a pair of pics of the room I am staying in. Notice how I've already had a crochet explosion. The other pic is the view outside my room. Ahh, heaven.

UK Bloggin' - Flight and 1st Day

2006-06-27T10:33:00.000-04:00

Well, I made it. Safe and sound. I had quite an adventure getting here, though. I arrived at Providence Airport on time, and made it through security with no issues. I got to the gate, and when the time came, I got on the plane. Two hours later, I was still on the plane, on the tar-mac in Providence. Apparently the air-traffic-control didn't have any people running it, so there were no planes leaving Providence until they got some. The took us off the plane, and we waited at the gate. Lots of people were panicing. I wasn't, since I made sure I got the flight with the longest layover time possible. Been there - done that. There was this one lady flipping out, since she had already missed her connection, and the next flight leaving to her desination was Tuesday. Keep in mind, it was Sunday. After four hours of waiting, I had gone through all the yarn I had in my carry-on bag. The plus side is, I'm much more far along on my Cookie Monster bag. They loaded us all back on the plane, and we were off to Newark. With two hours to spare, I had no problems making my connection to Manchester. But there was another waiting game. The plane was having problems taking on fuel, so we waiting on the tar-mac another two hours. We must have made the time up in flight, since I only got to Manchester an hour later than I was supposed to. Girlfriend's dad was there waiting for me, since Girlfriend was at work. I made it to their place, had a cup of coffee, and then slept for the next 6 hours. I watched the Australia / Italy game (awful way for Australia to lose) and the Swiss/Ukraine game (boooooooring). Girlfriend and I had some quality time together, and before I knew it, she was fast asleep. She's ill - bless her. Lovely jet-lag kept me up until about 2am.

I'm Leavin', on a Jet Plane...

2006-06-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

I've got a couple hours before I head to the airport, so I've got some time to blog for a bit. Ever since September 11th, I've been keeping a sort of tradition before I fly. I know the chances of anything happening are slim, but before I leave on any flight, I write a note to my loved-ones and hide it in my room. That way, if something happens to me, while my family goes through my things, they discover it. Today, I think I'll blog it. Mom and Dad - I know that your expectations for me are higher than what I've been able to achieve, and I'm sorry for that. Know that I love you, and am thankful for everything you have given me in my life. My brothers - I couldn't have asked for a more diverse group of brothers. You are all unique in your own way, and I adore each of you with all my heart. Please don't change to conform - you will lose who you are. I love you, Aaron, Saul and Abe. Grandma - You've been the third parent in my life. When things go wrong, I know I can always depend on you to be there for me unconditionally. I love you, and I look forward to the day that I can see Papa again. Emma - Times have been hard for us this past month, but in the end, I know you are my shining start and in the end, we belong together. You have taught me as much about life as I have been able to teach you about school. You are a beautiful girl that I love with everything I am. Clint - Life couldn't have left me a better friend. You have always been there for me, for the huge issues and the little ones. I am so thankful that you've stuck with me, and been there for me. Rachel - You are the first girl that my brothers have brought home that I know is the perfect fit. You've been part of our family for so long, and even though we don't know eachother so well, you are like my sis. I have no doubt that you and Abe will have a long and happy life together. Kara - I'm so proud that you were able to breaak free of the tyranny of ACS, and you've gotten what you wanted. I know that you were the one person at work I could trust 100%, and you have no idea how good that felt. Thank you for everything, and this boy's a keeper! Paige - I never was a dog person until I saw you for the first time. You drive me bananas, but whenever I'm sick, you're right there with your head on my chest, looking over me. It amazes me how smart you are, and how much you learn each day. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson - I'm greatful that you have begun to change your views of me and who I am. Always know that I've only wanted the best for your daughter. I respect you as I do my own parents, and care about you almost as much. You did a superb job raising two children, and I hope that you are proud of them. Alright, now that I'm all teary-eyed, I'm going to shower.

[Content Removed]

2006-06-23T19:43:00.001-04:00

Blackmail is the act of threatening to reveal information about a person unless the blackmailee meets certain demands. This information is usually of an embarrassing or socially damaging nature. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackmail

Must-Do-Before-I-Leave List

2006-06-23T11:28:00.000-04:00

I have about 50 hours until I leave for the UK. In order to stop myself from obsessing about forgetting something, I'm making a to-do list. Yeah, I know it's boring. Deal. ~~Phone loan people~~, and finalize the car-transfer. Get car? ~~Finish doing laundry.~~ ~~Get suitcases from Grandma's house.~~ Pack said laundry. ~~Go out to Brooks and get needed things: air-sick patch, salsa, chips,~~ candy. Organize and pack yarns and hooks into case. ~~Clean out Crab-itat~~ and go over care with SIL. ~~Pack carry-on bag. Don't forget passport, tickets, meds,~~ hook & yarn, ~~water bottle.~~ Clean room. Actually shut down computer. Post travel details on fridge. Ask SIL to take care of plants. ~~Call business office about paycheck.~~ I'll add more as I remember and cross off as done. Let me know if you think I forgot anything.

Wait, what? I have to stay all day?

2006-06-21T10:02:00.000-04:00

Since the dawn of time at my school, the students had a half day on their last day. When students left at 11:30, we could leave soon after. Since our calendar didn't say any differently this year, a rather large party was planned to go off at 1pm today. It's a going-away bash of sorts, since 9 out of the 13 lead teachers, and 5 out of the 8 paraprofessionals that I work with are leaving to take teaching jobs elsewhere. But this morning, we get this in our daily notice. "TODAY - 11:30 A.M. student dismissal – No lunch served – No P.M. Kids Care – Today is a REGULAR DAY FOR ALL STAFF. Instructional staff may leave at 3:00 PM. Check Morning Notice for more details." Arrrrrrrgggggghhhhhh! Update @ 10:50am - Oh....it gets better. A friend of mine emailed the principal. Here is a copy of her email, with named changed. Good Morning Mr. Principal, I’ve noticed on the morning notice that we are to stay till 3pm. On this years calendar it states 11:30 dismissal, and for the 3 years I’ve been here it has always been an 11:30 dismissal. I have prior engagements because I’ve known we were getting out at 11:30. I don’t understand why we were told this today. I am unable to change my plans and will have to leave at 11:30. My office is clean except for my books that I will be packing in my car tomorrow. Teacher. And this is the reply she got. Teacher, To be honest I do not think the tone of your e-mail is really appropriate or professional. Policies, schedules, etc. change from year to year in every organization, so no one should expect things to be the same just because that’s the way it was done before. The heading of the section in the 2005-06 School Calendar distributed to staff in June of 2005 clearly states: NO SCHOOL & EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS FOR STUDENTS and it does not state it is early dismissal for staff. Therefore, you were actually “told this”, to use your words, in June 2005 and not today. In the past, the last day of school for students has been an early release day for staff. However, the last day for staff (tomorrow) has always been a full work day. This year it that schedule (tomorrow is a 1:00 PM dismissal) was reversed for reasons that are more beneficial to the school. I am sorry if anyone made any incorrect assumptions regarding today’s schedule. Staff members who have a conflict in working all day due to such assumptions may apply for personal time for this afternoon if they choose to do so. Thank you. Principal. How about those (like me) that don't have any sick time left? I'm going to have to take half-a-day unpaid if I leave at 11:45.

C & H

2006-06-20T19:47:00.000-04:00

Cyanide & Happiness @ Explosm.net

Two huge weights - GONE!!!

2006-06-20T18:36:00.000-04:00

Well, my car situation has been sorted out. After hours and hours and hours of applying for loans over the internet, and getting phonecalls from banks that couldn't help me, I finally got a call from a company that can. A car dealership near me is willing to buy out my loan from Ford Credit, and "sell" the car back to me, as long as I get a loan through them. The loan company is one for those who are "credit challenged", and works with people in my situation. They will take between $70 and $80 a week out of my checking account, at a 20% interest rate. Yes, I know, 20% is awful, but the woman I saw strongly suggested refinancing after the year was up. So, that's one huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. I also got my new contract for next year's teaching, and I've already signed it. My boss, fought for me to get more than the standard 3% raise, and ended up getting me a 7% raise! Woo hoo! The two things that I was really stressing about and all sorted. Now I can truely enjoy my time over in England with my Sweetie. I'm so looking forward to seeing the whole family again.

I can see the light!

2006-06-19T08:03:00.000-04:00

Two and a half more days of work until I am off for the summer! Six more days until I get on a plane to see my sweetie! I'm just so greatful that I get three weeks to just chill in the UK and not have to worry about anything. This weekend was awful. I'm dealing with a major money issue right now, and unless I get a huge sum of cash before the 26th, I will no longer have my lovely car. This is like jump-off-a-bridge money issues. I'm in the process of applying for numerous loans, but with my crap credit, I'm not holding my breath. Trust me, it might seem like I'm all la-ti-da over this, but that's because I'm medicated and under orders to not stress about it, or I will have a major asthmatic episode. Speaking of asthmatic episodes, check this out:

If you can't read it clearly, the Air Quality says "UNHEALTHY". And I'm running a tug-o-war station at today's field day. Thank the Gods I am near the nurse's station.

9 Hooks + 23 Skeins + 45 Students = 1 Long Day

2006-06-16T19:27:00.000-04:00

Work has been piss easy this week, so yesterday, I popped my head into the 6th grade classes and asked if any of the students would be interested in me bringing my crochet materials to work, so that I would teach them. I got about 15 "yes"s, so this morning, I packed up my rolley-tote with yarns and hooks, and headed off to work. I cleared the floor in one of the classrooms, and plopped myself on the floor. When the first class walked in, they all (yes, all 23) gathered around me, and shouted "Teach me, Ms. C!". And, I did. Throughout the day, I had 3 different classes come in and out for 2 periods each. Each time, I had a dozen students in a circle around me, learning how to chain. I only had 9 hooks with me, so they shared. Even some of the boys joined in, and made chain-headbands out of my camo varigated yarn. I had a few students master the chain, and I moved them onto doing rows of single crochet. I couldn't get over how they kept saying, "This is fun!" and "My grandma tried to teach me, but it's easier now!" and "Can we do this on Monday?" Of course, I'm bringing everything back on Monday. About half of the students said that they were going to bug their parents into taking them to Wal-Mart this weekend, and get some hooks and yarn. I told them what they should get, and how much it should cost them. I explained why the hooks are different sizes, and how they go with different kinds of yarn. Most of them want to make headbands, wristbands, and purses. I can't wait until Monday.

Intarsia - My New Learning Experience

2006-06-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

in·tar·si·a (n-tärs-)n. 1. A decorative inlaid pattern in a surface, especially a mosaic worked in wood. 2. A knitted design resembling a mosaic that is visible on both sides of a fabric. 3. The art or practice of making intarsias. I've been inspired by Lady Linoleum's post on intarsia. I have tried it before, but I think I'll be giving it another go. I have been in the process of creating a cookie monster bag, simmilar to this tapestry on craftster. I was going to get some graph paper and make my own pattern for it, but someone had kindly pointed me to KnitPro, where they have a free graphing program. Nothing to download, just upload the image you want graphed! I found a pic of a cookie monster t-shirt, cropped out what I wanted, and uploaded it. So friggin' easy. I had all these crappy plasticy yarn butterflies to hold my yarn, but it was just insane. I googled intarsia, and stumbled upon this page, suggesting to use wooden clothespins instead. We'll see how that goes.

5 Days and Counting!

2006-06-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

Yes, I am into the last week of teaching before the end of the school year. I love this time of the year. Grades are in, reports are on their way being sent home, lists for next year are made, so we can relax! I've spent the day letting my students do one of four things: 1. Creating 3-D hats out of construction paper. 2. Reading aloud plays to themselves in small groups. 3. Super Quiet Uninterrupted Independent Reading Time (SQUIRT) 4. Making an "ABCs to Surviving 6th Grade" book. While they were doing this, one of my co-teachers and I spent the day at our computers. She was looking for a new job, I was working on reformatting my blog. Tomorrow, I'm bringing my yarn and crochet hooks, and I'm taking small groups of students to teach them how to crochet. Maybe a few of them will keep it up over the summer, and they'll have rather unique school bags for the new year. Monday is Field Day, so I'll be at the park, playing games all day. Tuesday is their last full day, and I think I'll bring the crochet stuff again. Wednesday is a half-day, and the student's last official day. More chillin' and crochetin'. Thursday I have to come in from 8-3, but there won't be any students here. Cleaning up time. I have Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to chill at home, pack, etc. Then, I'm off to the UK for a month!!

Bert has returned from World Cup

2006-06-13T10:40:00.000-04:00

In a previous post, I was complaining that my hermit crab had escaped from his crab-itat, and was no where to be found. I'm guessing Bert (my crab) went to the World Cup game, and was fed up with the results, so came back home. Last night, I found him!!! I was laying in bed last night, and I heard this odd plastic-crinkling sound on my floor. My dog, Paige, had gone through my trash the other night, and pulled out a plastic cookie container. I figured it was just her playing with it again. I picked up my head, and didn't see Paige. But, I did see the distinct white & black soccer paint on Bert's shell. I couldn't believe it! I picked him up, and he pinched me. I'd be mad too if my owner abandoned me for more than a week. I put him in his crab-itat, sprayed him with some water, and put out some food for him. He immediately went over to his habitat-mate, Betty, and started bugging her. Crabby lovin'!

Of Baseball and Cultural Differences

2006-06-12T07:24:00.000-04:00

I went to my first baseball game in 10 years yesterday. At the school I work at, students who accumulated less than 3 demerits for the whole year, as well as the homeroom with the fewest demerits, got to go to see a Paw Sox game on the school's bill. I chaperoned. I had a fun time, and I got to hang out with kids that I don't normally see that much. I did get the traditional hot dog and Cracker Jack. On the same sports note, the USA plays today in the World Cup. This is the situation I find myself in: A. I am an American. I was born in America, and I follow American culture. B. Girlfriend is English. She was born in England and only moved here 6 months ago. I will be going to England for the majority of the World Cup. C. My father is 100% Portuguese. Although he was born in the US, he was raised in a traditional Portuguese household. He has become very American-ized, though. Who in God's name do I root for? Of course, I'm pulling for the USA team primarily. But I'm come to the understanding that most likely, the USA team will not be making it out of the group stages. When that time comes, do I root for the English and follow the whole "When in ROme..." train of thought, or go with my cultural background, and root for the Portuguese? I know, there are much more important things in this world to worry about, but I'm trivial like that. My bud Kara has a blog. Go check it out.

WIP Killer Weekend III

2006-06-10T20:43:00.000-04:00

My Goal: To eliminate as many WIPs as possible this weekend. In addition, I need to get some "business stuff" taken care of. My Plan: To complete what I have listed below. But, the World Cup games are on tv this weekend, so maybe I won't get quite as much done. Yes, I know that's a rugger pic. But, it's got USA fans!!! Get a row's worth of Brother #3's Christmas afghan done. - 6 six-inch squares I've gotten 2.5 done. - stitch rows together Get three squares SIL's Christmas afghan done. - 1 Hello Kitty Square - 2 bordering squares Plan Brother #1's Christmas afghan. -~~print out pattern~~ or -~~graph out pattern~~

God save the Queen.

2006-06-10T10:50:00.000-04:00

I'm going to England!!! I just bought a ticket last night to go see Girlfriend and her family at their place in the UK. It cost me more than a month's wages, but I was able to swing it. So, from June 25th to July 20th, I'll be blogging from sunny Chapel-en-le-Frith in the High Peak district. It's not my first time in England. I've been there about a dozen or so times, staying with the in-laws. I'm looking forward to this time especially, because the World Cup will still be going on. If it's anything like the last time I was in the UK during a World Cup, it'll be a great atmosphere. When not venturing to the pub with Girlfriend's father (since Girlfriend will be working), I can spend some much needed bonding time with her Mom, knitting and crocheting. Yay.

What's that sharp pain in my back? Part 3

2006-06-09T08:03:00.000-04:00

Warning: This is the final part of long-winded post in a three-part series complaining about work-related drama. Names have been changed (including mine), so that this doesn't come and bite me in the ass some day. For those of you who don't care to read that type of thing, I express my apologies, and in return for the hassle, check out this really good coupon for Joann's. After discovering that a co-worker was monitoring my every move, and dealing with it up front, things began to quiet down. Kiki, Noelle, and I started having lunch together regularly. We noticed that "Rayne", the third teacher in the 5th grade team, had began not eating lunch with us, and now dined with Julia. This was a concern, since a good amount of bonding time with the 5th grade team was spent during lunch. Weeks went by, and life at school was as normal as it could get. The end of the year was winding down, and there was hours and hours of paperwork that needed to be handed in. One morning, I come into Noelle's room, and she was having a conversation with Kiki, both looking very upset. Tensions had been building between Kiki and Rayne. Rayne had been curt with Kiki, where before they were friendly. The "you cover my back, I'll cover yours" unspoken deal that all teachers share was broken, and Rayne was no longer going above-and-beyond at all. And so it brings me up to today. There are now, unfortunately two sides in our once bonded team, with Kiki, Noelle, the paraprofessionals, and I on one side, and Julia and Rayne on the other. Julia believes that Kiki is the one who came to me, and this could possibly be the reason that Rayne has been so curt with her. The irony drips, though. Julia is presently interviewing for another position in our school. Because of this, as well as numerous other meetings/coffee breaks/confused schedules, she has not been servicing her pull out students - exactly the accusation that she threw at me. These students end up going to the inclusion classroom, where I reside. In the great balance of karma and whatnot, I am the one now covering her ass, and she is the one getting into trouble for not delivering appropriate services.

What's this sharp pain in my back? Part 2

2006-06-08T21:55:00.000-04:00

Warning: This is the second long-winded post in a three-part series complaining about work-related drama. Names have been changed (including mine), so that this doesn't come and bite me in the ass some day. For those of you who don't care to read that type of thing, I express my apologies, and in return for the hassle, check out this really good coupon for Joann's. When last I left, I had gathered as much information as I could, and decided that approaching Julia on my own was no longer an option. Things had spiraled out of control. Accusations of me being arrested were now involved, and I was done playing. I knew that Donna didn't direct Julia to do anything. I knew that she was making up lies about me, and spreading them to other staff members. I emailed Donna that morning, and asked if there was a time I could meet with her. Later that day, as I sat in Donna's office, we discussed what I had learned. We both tried to come up with valid, explainable reasons why Julia, someone I had gotten along with so well, had decided to act the way she was. In the mean time, Donna emailed Kiki and got some details from her. When Donna asked me how I wanted to handle it, I told her that I wanted to confront Julia, and I wanted Donna there to mediate. Julia was called up to Donna's office, and she sat across the table at me. I looked at her and asked flat out, "What is going on?" She began spinning this tale of lies. According to Julia, she somehow (and to this moment, I can't see how) combined three separate conversations, mixed them up, and misunderstood them as a single instruction to track me. 1. Earlier that week, Julia had a meeting with Donna, where Julia was told to be sure that the staff was aware of the differences between Special Education, and Title One staff. 2. Julai asked a student of mine, "Jake", when the last time he saw me was. Jake, disliking Julia with as much disdain as a 11 year old can muster, shrugged his shoulders and said, "I don't know". For you moms of teens out there - you know the look. When Julia persisted, he shouted at her, "I don't know who Ms. Cordelia is!" Although this might seem a bit confusing, Jake has always referred to me as "Ms. C", and to this day, probably doesn't know my real last name. 3. Jake's mother requested that her son be placed on a 504 plan. Since he was already on an IEP plan, this was not necessary. So apparently, in Julia's head, these three things dissolved themselves into a single instruction -have staff monitor my attendance and participation in classes. But, this is where my confusion starts. Later on, she said that she was not instructed to monitor me. She said that someone had told her I wasn't going to classes and servicing students. Instead of coming to me right away, she decided to investigate herself, and "spare me the pain". Donna let her know that in now way, shape, or form was she asked to do such a thing. And that Donna would never, ever handle a situation where she would have one staff member monitoring another in a case like she had been. Donna made it clear that if there was ever any questions about my work ethics, Julia was to go to me first. And that if Julia was ever approached by a staff member, a parent, or even a student about this type of concerned, they are to go to me first. When I brought up the pressing-charges situation, Julia flatly denied every saying such a thing, and said that Kiki and Noelle were making it up purely to start drama. She told me that I shouldn't trust them. I was done listening to her lies at this point, and decided to say something. I pushed the issue more, asking if there was something, some "seed" of information that she told my friends that could have gotten misunderstood, and morphed into the thought of me getting arrested, she said that there wasn't. She insisted that my friends were telling me lies. I let Julia know that I absolutely didn't trust her after what she did, and that I would be far more likely to believe something that my friends of 5 years (Kiki and Noelle) than something coming out of the mouth of a person who spend the last few weeks scurrying behind my back. There were still questions that went unanswered at the meeting, but I was done. I knew that nothing I could have asked, nothing I could have said, would get any iota of truth from Julia. I still don't know why Julia specifically asked that Noelle not be told of my monitoring, when it was supposed to be getting done in Noelle's class. I didn't bring up the emailing-behind-my-back as I was sitting in her classroom. I still have no idea where this pressing-charges crapola came from. When Donna asked Julia if she had any complaints about my work ethic that needed to be addressed, Julia said no. That was the last day I spent with Julia as anything but a co-worker. She was very upset as we left the room, and even hugged me as we left. Later that afternoon, I took my things from the office we shared, and moved them to an empty room. The friendly, joking emails between us stopped. No more lunches were shared. Our relationship turned from close friends to absolute professional in the span of 48 hours. And so work went on, but things didn't get better. In fact, it got worse. Continued, in Part 3.

What's that sharp pain in my back? Part 1

2006-06-08T07:22:00.000-04:00

Warning: This is a long-winded post-series complaining about work-related drama. Names have been changed, so that this doesn't come and bite me in the ass some day. For those of you who don't care to read that type of thing, I express my apologies, and in return for the hassle, check out this really good coupon for Joann's. Life has been good at work this year, for the most part. Because of my lack of complete certification according to "No Child Left Behind", I have two supervising teachers. One for the 5th & 6th graders, and one for the 7th & 8th graders. I have had many difficulties with the 7th & 8th grade supervising teacher for years, so I was thrilled when I got on so well with the newly hired 5th & 6th grade supervising teacher. This, along with the fact that my two closest friends at work were on the same floor as me, we were one big happy work-family - me, "Julia" my supervising teacher, "Kiki", the 5th math teacher, and "Noelle", the 5th science teacher. Then, it dropped. Out of the blue, I get a phone call from Noelle. She prefaced the call by telling me that I couldn't let others know that she was the one sharing this information with me, but Noelle wanted to let me know that something was going on that shedidn't agree with. What she shared with me was that "someone" that I work with was going around to teachers, and telling them they needed to document all that I did: when I was in class, when I wasn't, when I was late, who I worked with, what I did with them, etc. And that this information was going to be used to get me into trouble. When I got off the phone with this person, my immediate thought was that I needed to get a hold of Julia, for two reasons: maybe she was also being monitored like I was, and maybe she was aware of what was going on, and she could give me more information. I thought that if Julia did know what was going on, that she had not told me sooner because she wanted to "protect me" in some way, and not have the stresses that would be associated with having my movements monitored all throughout the day. After the initial shock, my emotions turned to fear. In the past, information gathering like this had been used as a way of being able to comfortably refuse to renew a teacher's contract. I tried to connect my job performance with what this former teacher's job performance was, and I couldn't see any connection. Even though I had no idea why, I assumed that this would be my last year at my school, and that I was in the process of losing my job. The next day, my supervisor, "Donna", was at a conference. I went through the day, miserable. The only consolidation I had was a very well-timed "Thank you for being a good teacher" letter from one of my students. I decided that if my actions were being watched over, I would make it easier for whoever was keeping track of me, by providing an extremely detailed account of my daily goings on. I sent this in an email to Donna, Julia, and my 7th and 8th teacher, since I assumed that at least Donna knew that this was going on. The next day when I got an email from Donna telling me that it was not necessary at all to provide this information, I was shocked. I assumed all along that an "investigation" like this would need her okay before beginning. Although I was hurt that Donna didn't come to me first, I now realized that she had nothing to do with what I was told in that phone call. I began explaining the whole story to Donna, and she asked me if I could find out the name of the person who directed the teachers to do this monitoring. I went back to Noelle, and she gave me more details. Julia had directed other teachers to monitor me. She specifically told these teachers not to let my caller know, since they would in turn tell me. Noelle had never spoken with Julia directly. Absolutely shocked, I emailed this information to Donna, including that I had absolutely no clue that this was going on. Julia had never said anything at all to me about her concerns, and never changed her demeanor towards me. Donna ended the conversation Friday by giving me the optimistic side of things - maybe Julia was trying to defend me in some way. Since this was in line to what I had been thinking that Wednesday, I took that to heart. I decided I would wait the weekend to think things over, and talk to Julia one-to-one on Monday morning. Friday night, I went out with Kiki and Noelle. The conversation started off with, "Do we want to talk this over?" and I knew immediately that there was more to the story. I shared the conversation I had with Donna, and the two were shocked to learn that she did not have any involvement with this monitoring. The impression was given to them that this was given the OK by the administration. More was added to the details of the day that they were asked to monitor me. Julia came into Kiki's room while she and Noelle's paraprofessional were in the room. In a very hurried, flustered, and concerned manner, Julia instructed them that they needed to monitor me daily, and send emails to her every day. Kiki needed to monitor me in her classroom, and the paraprofessional needed to monitor me in Noelle's classroom (but were specifically told not tell Noelle what was going on). Julia told them that one of the reasons that I needed to be monitored was that there was a parent pressing charges against me, and I was in the process of being arrested. Eager for details, Kiki asked who was pressing charges, and what were the nature of the charges. Julia did not give those details, saying that it was very confidential. Julia told then that she did not want my actions effecting her certification. "My ass is on the line" were the words she used. I learned that in the next few days, Julia emailed these staff members reminding them to report back to her daily. Instructing them to make sure that they had written down that I was not servicing students the day of a field trip, and document a day that was I absent from work. I was also told that one day, while one of my inclusion students was in Julia's pull-out classroom during a period that I had him in the inclusion classroom, Julia emailed the inclusion teacher (Kiki). She complained that I was in her pull-out room (with my student), and not in the inclusion classroom. The teacher commented that if Julia wanted me in the inclusion classroom (without my inclusion student) that she should tell me. Julia declined, and never mentioned anything to me at all. None of the teachers have any idea why Julia had taken it upon herself do instruct them to monitor me, let along create false reasoning to do so. Julia never told me that going on the field trip would be an issue; in fact she "fought" for the both of us to be able to be chaperones on this trip. Julia had never said anything to me, either in person, or in emails about anything mentioned above. Up until Friday night, I had no idea that she was the one creating these issues. I was not aware of any parent with any complaint against me, let alone pressing charges against me. If this were the case, I would assume that administration would have contacted me right away, and not wait a week until letting me know that this was happening. I am not aware if she has instructed any other teacher that I work with to monitor me, or told any other staff members that I am in the process of being arrested. To be continued in Part 2...

Ch-ch-ch-changes

2006-06-05T16:39:00.000-04:00

I changed up the description of my blog. I figure I'd have a bit more to talk about if I didn't limit myself to just my crocheting. I figure that it'll probably take up the majority of my blog, but now I don't feel bad about slipping in something a little less craft-like. It's very weird coming home to an "empty" house, now that Girlfriend has gone back to the UK for the summer. I miss her to bits. I keep having dreams about us getting married. I had one a few weeks ago about eloping in Vegas, and just last night I had one about us going to the city hall in Fall River (MA), and getting hitched by a JP. I figure it's typical, since we've been together for almost 5 years now. Maybe it's because I'm reading about the gay-marriage ban they are trying to get through Senate. Oh, don't worry. I won't get into political discussions on my blog. But, I would like the ability to get married some day.

Breast Feeding = Sexually Explicit Material?

2006-06-04T19:18:00.000-04:00

Glad I'm not on LiveJournal.

I think all bloggers should be aware of what is going on. In a nutshell, a rule against nudity in avatars has lead to banning of all breast-feeding avatars, which has been expanded included fine art, such as this, this, and this. Yes, no more pics of a breast-feeding Virgin Mary. Banned avs are stored here. Click here to find out the short version of the 'fuss' over breastfeeding avatars.

Here is a press version of the story, and a blogger summing it much better than I can. Also, details of the 6/6/06 LJ Boycott, and 6/5/06 Nurse-In at LJ Headquarters.

WIP Killer Weekend II

2006-06-02T20:10:00.000-04:00

Goal: To eliminate as many WIPs as possible. To-Do List (continued from a previous post): Get a row's worth of Brother #3's Christmas afghan done. - ~~6 four-inch squares~~ - ~~1 six-inch square~~ - ~~stitch row together~~ Complete the Baby It's Cold Outside sweater for co-worker's baby-to-be. Get a row's worth of Hello Kitty Squares done for SIL's gift. - 5 Kitty Squares - 10 "other" squares - stitch row together I will update as I complete.

Fun Fur is Muppet Murder

2006-06-02T12:52:00.000-04:00

I snagged this button from Deneen's blog, who got it from someone else's blog. The sad thing is, I keep getting asked to make things with the dreaded FF.

Funks Suck

2006-06-01T10:13:00.000-04:00

I'm in a mega-funk today. Girlfriend went back to the UK for the summer to see her family. I was planning to go in July, but tickets are in the $500-$700 range. My hermit crab, Bert, escaped last night because I forgot to cover his crab-itat. I am PMSing, and my anxiety meds don't seem to be handling it well. I began three more projects this weekend, none of them done, and will probably just add to my WIP list. I'm in one of those all-I-want-to-do-is-go-home-and-sleep moods.

Gaspee Days Craft Fair Experience

2006-05-30T07:09:00.000-04:00

This past long weekend I participated in the Gaspee Days Arts and Crafts Festival in Warwick, RI. Overall, it was a rather mediocre end to a rather confusing process. Let's go back in time, shall we? At the beginning of April, I came across the listing for vendors. I went to the festival's web site, printed out the application, and sent it in along with payment. The web site said "confirmation of your acceptance will be made by May 1st or shortly thereafter". May began, and I checked the mail everyday for my confirmation letter. When May 15th rolled in, and I didn't hear anything, I got a bit worried. I sent an email to the coordinator, asking if I had been accepted. The reply I got said that because of last minute applications, there was a delay in sending out confirmation letters. And I thought to myself, "because someone(s) sent their paperwork in too late, I have to wait to even see if I am doing a major craft fair"? The email didn't even state if my work was accepted. But, I decided to wait some more. A week went by, and again, nothing. There was now less than a week until the event, and I still hadn't heard anything. Again, I emailed the coordinator, and asked if I could get some information - if I was accepted, directions, set up times, etc. Again, I didn't get any of that information, just an email telling me that notification had been sent out. Two days passed, and my letter finally arrived. It had most of the information I needed, except for what would be provided to the vendors (tables, chairs, water, electricity) Luckily, I did get an answer when I emailed this time. The weekend rolled around, and Girlfriend and I packed up my parent's SUV (thanks Dad for letting me commandeer your car for an entire long weekend). We pulled out the letter, which had directions to the event printed at the bottom. These directions were rather general, referring to major streets as "that road", and intersections as "down the hill". With Girlfriend's help, we got to the event safe and sound. We unpacked the car, we realized that we had left chairs at home. Our neighbor-vendors, "Stepping Out Custom Toe Rings", let us borrow a folding chair for the day. After setting up, we were ready for the day. The weekend was hot and sunny. Both Girlfriend and I got sunburns, even sitting under our top. We were situated almost at the end of the three-block setup. We were surrounded by silversmiths, a lady selling princess head-pieces, and a family selling hermit crabs. Girlfriend and I bought a pair of crabs, naming them Bert and Betty. Our sales were very slow all weekend - only 8 items sold over the three day weekend. We didn't make our money back from the vendor fee. At the very least, I got to spend some time with Girlfriend before she leaves to spend the summer with her family, back in the UK.

Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival

2006-05-24T18:53:00.000-04:00

After much confusion and delayed confirmations, I'll be selling this weekend! The weather report looks beautiful, and it'll be the last weekend I have with Girlfriend before she goes to see her parents for the summer back in the UK. 2006 Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival Saturday, May 27th, Sunday, May 28th & Monday, May 29th (Memorial Day) Starting each day at 10:00 am to 5 pm Narragansett Parkway, Pawtuxet Village, Warwick, RI

From the Kindness of Strangers II

2006-05-17T07:12:00.000-04:00

Once again, my pals at Dreams of Dogwoods have come through for me. Seeing as I've got that new sale at the Farmer's Market, I thought maybe I should add a veggie/grocery bag to my stock. There is a crochet-a-long going on at DoD, Natalie's Econo-Shopper bag. I PMed Nat, asking her if I could get a cottage license in order to sell her creation at the sales. I figured that it would cost me at least a $20, but I've seen artists sell their patterns for well over $100. In her reply, she told me that she couldn't accept any money for the pattern, but asked that I tag my items with her blog addie : http://natalie85.blogspot.com/ Go check it out, and let her know that she's the awesomest person out there! In addition to Nat being the fab girl that she is, Pink posted that she would send a spare pattern she had to the first person who PMed her. I did, and I've got Crochet Tops to Love in the mail, heading to me! Here's Pink's blog : http://www.sulovespink.blogspot.com/

New Sale Confirmed

2006-05-16T12:51:00.000-04:00

I just got word that I will be selling my wares at the Downtown Providence Farmers' Market this summer. An enormous variety of fresh Rhode Island foods in the heart of our capital city. The Downtown Market lives up to its namesake, offering a taste of Rhode Island to all those who converge upon Providence. Alongside Kennedy Plaza, the market serves the intersection of downtown officeworkers, bus commuters, convention visitors, but moreover creates a crossroads of urban and rural. Farmers, bakers, prepared food vendors offer a world-class showcase of local foods and the momentum is only certain to grow with the resurgence of downtown Providence. I've confirmed these dates, with possible addition to July: June 23, 30 August 4, 11, 18, 25

WIP Killer Weekend

2006-05-13T11:29:00.000-04:00

My Goal : To eliminate as many WIPs as possible this weekend. My Plan: To complete what I have listed below. Complete all cozies for upcoming sale. - Add embelishments to chicken, pig, croc, and ladybug - Stitch up the sides Complete the Baby It's Cold Outside sweater for co-worker's baby-to-be. Get a row's worth of Hello Kitty Squares done for SIL's gift. - 5 Kitty Squares - 10 "other" squares - stitch row together Get a row's worth of Brother #3's Christmas afghan done. - ~~6 four-inch squares~~ - 4 1 six-inch squares - stitch row together Get a row's worth of Grandma's Christmas afghan done. - 10 four-inch squares - stitch row together I will update as I complete. Man, I absolutely overestimated what I would be able to get done this weekend. With a combo of Nyquil, sore joints and Mother's Day, I suck at this WIP killing. The 4" squares and 6" squares took much longer than I thought they would. One of the non-Kitty squares for my SIL's blankie took me about an hour - although this is probably because I had never made one in that style before, so I had to frog a lot. I am rather impressed with how it did come out, though. When I'm not so lazy and drugged up, I'll post some piccys. I do like the idea of setting a goal each weekend and seeing what I can get done, though.

Confessions of a UFO Maniac

2006-05-10T14:01:00.000-04:00

I think I have a problem. Every time I see something interesting that I want to crochet, I start on it. I work on it until the next new and exciting thing comes around, then I begin that. I think I have a dozen WIPs right now - all larger scale projects. I think part of my issue is that I have so much Red Heart and Homespun around, that I think to myself, "I have the yarn. Might as well give it a go!" I don't seem to have the self-control to say "Wait until your Cathedral Rose afghan you started 6 months ago is done, then start the queen-size granny square afghan." I've also had to balance creating stock for my sales (which are small items I can pop out in a few hours) to working on long-term projects. I think to myself "I have 7 months to make 8 afghans for Christmas. That's plenty of time! I can start making that Care Bear from the pattern book I just got." But in reality, I don't think it is enough time. I'm on UFO overload.

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2006-05-08T12:05:00.000-04:00

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2006-05-05T08:43:00.000-04:00

...and one heaping tablespoon of WIPs

2006-05-04T09:43:00.000-04:00

Man, I'm a UFO maniac as of late. I have so many projects half done, it's unreal. I think creating so much stuff for my sales, I've just abandoned the items I'm crocheting for myself. Here's my insane list.... Yesterday, I began a Care Bear for a co-worker's upcoming baby. I have about 20 rounds done on the head. Monday, I started a Hello Kitty granny square afghan for my brother's girlfriend's Christmas prezzie. I have all of one square done. I am making a pink shirtless-sleeve set for a student who is in her cousin's wedding. I haven't even really started it. I have a Cookie Monster bag that I'm making for myself. The tapestry section is done, I'm just working on the back and strap. I also need to start thinking of and making afghans for my family as Christmas gifts. This includes my mother, father, grandmother (x2), brother (x3), girlfriend, and best-guy-friend. Then, there are all the things I started ages ago, that I haven't even touched in months. Cathedral Rose afghan, amineko, granny square afghan, and probably a lot of other things I haven't thought of yet. On top of that, I want to make some baby-things for my craft sales. Arrrrghhhh! I need more time and energy.

From the Kindness of Strangers

2006-05-02T10:19:00.000-04:00

I posted a pattern request on C'ville for a Japanese Hello Kitty pattern book. Thinking that I might have burned my bridge at that forum, I was absolutely floored when I logged on today and saw the huge amount of PMs offering to help me in my search! Not only were members able to provide me with exactly what I was looking for, so many of them took their time and offered their support of me, my blog, and my efforts at C'ville. I would specifically mention members that went above-and-beyond, but I fear that they may be targeted by the C'ville gestapo for being helpful to an Untouchable like me. It wouldn't suprise me if my PMs have already been read by the admin. Yes, even though that vBulletin does not have the specific option to read PMs, the database contains these PMs (and the owner can read the database), and there is also a hack to download. So be careful - Private Messages aren't so private!

Real Life, Less Drama

2006-05-01T11:53:00.000-04:00

Now that things seemed to have begun settling down at C'ville, (although, the question of the auction and funding is still in the air), I've been able to spend more of the internet side of my life relaxing. I've been invited to many new forums that sprang up during the time of C'ville's "vacation" that are much more chilled and less drama filled. I'll mention two, before moving on... Crochetmania - Although this one is home of a few "powerful" C'ville supporters, and I was told in so many words that I am not welcome there. So, you won't see me there much. Dreams of Dogwoods - A wonderful place run by those exiled out of C'ville for one reason or another. A very honest, open, and frank discussion group on several types of crafts - not just crochet. This is my more regular craft-related stomping grounds. I had my first sale this weekend, and although I didn't get as many things sold as I was hoping for, it was a good experience overall. I'm looking forward to my next one, Memorial Day Weekend's Gaspee Day's Arts and Craft Fest. I've got quite of bit of what I call "quick stock" (things I can whip up very quickly, and sell well), so I've been working on larger pieces, like shrugs, handbags, and more ornate items. I'm also beginning to think about Christmas gifts that I want to start on, since I tend to take a while making the important things. I'm thinking of making a Hello Kitty afghan, using this free pattern of a Hello Kitty Granny Square that someone posted over at craftster.

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2006-04-25T18:03:00.000-04:00

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2006-04-25T12:04:00.000-04:00

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2006-04-24T12:15:00.000-04:00

And now, it's all worth it.

2006-04-24T11:52:00.000-04:00

I got to work this morning, and was a little nervous about giving my student her blanket. After I settled into my office, I popped my head outside where the children were waiting for the school to open. I spotted Amanda with her signature head-band, and called her over. "I made you something over vacation. I figured you'd have a new room at Grandma and Grandpa's that needs decorating. Come check it out." We walked inside the building, and chit-chatted about vacation while we headed down my hallway. I opened the door to my room, and her eyes fixed on the blanket that I had folded over a chair. "Oh my God! Hogwarts! Oh my GOD! I love it! OH MY GOD! Thank you!" We walked upstairs to her locker so that it could be kept safe for the day. Along the way she showed off her new blanket that "Miss C" made her to every staff member we passed.

Ravenclaw, done - Blanket Completed!!

2006-04-23T17:32:00.001-04:00

Marathon crochet is tough on your fingers, that's for sure. Last night I started with two skeins of Red Heart Super Saver, and this afternoon, this is what came of it. I had to finish it today - I NEEDED to finish it today. I see my student for the first time since the wake tomorrow, and I wanted to be able to give it to her on her first day back at school. So this quad had to get done, no matter what. And, it did. I took a breather after I finished my last quad for my Harry Potter comfortghan, then began stitching the sections together. Again, keeping in my head that no matter the eye strain and knuckle pain I might be experiencing, my student's gone through a lot more pain. So on this rainy sunday, two weeks to the day after my student's mother selfishly took her life in front of her daughter, I completed the afghan. I hope you like it, Amanda.

Hufflepuff, Done!

2006-04-22T14:24:00.000-04:00

On to Ravenclaw!

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2006-04-21T09:48:00.000-04:00

Crochet Donations - The Real Deal

2006-04-20T10:43:00.000-04:00

From dictionary.com: do·na·tion n.

The act of giving to a fund or cause.
A gift or grant.

Here are a list of crochet-related causes that need either funds, or crocheted goods for their cause. This is just a google-type list, and I don't really know a whole lot about these places. But, at the very least, I know that they are indeed places that have a real and true need for your talents and funds. Squares 4 SurvivorsWe accept 12" crocheted or knitted squares of 4 ply worsted weight acrylic yarn which are assembled into afghans for victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and any future hurricane victims who require assistance. All information is available at the web site including sign-up for our yahoo list. We will also accept completed afghans or quilts. Threads of Compassion: a loosely connected group of survivors of sexual violence who desire to offer comfort and support to recent victims. The idea is simple. Anyone whose life has been affected by sexual assault or abuse is welcome to knit or crochet a scarf which in turn will be given to a victim of sexual violence when they enter the hospital for emergency treatment. Warm Hearts Warm Babies: We are a group of kind-hearted volunteers that help to make life easier for Colorado's tiniest citizens. We sew, knit, crochet, and quilt for premature infants and babies in need. We donate to hospitals, crisis pregnancy centers, shelters, law enforcement agencies, foster care, WIC offices, and individuals across much of the state of Colorado. All of our gifts are donated free of charge and 100% of what we receive in donations goes to help the babies. Please visit the links on the left to learn more about us and what you can do to help. Afghans for Afghnas: A humanitarian and educational people-to-people project that sends hand-knit and crocheted blankets and sweaters, vests, hats, mittens, and socks to the beleaguered people of Afghanistan. Angels for Hope: We crochet angels, butterflies, and smiley faces (for children) that are sent out all over the world upon request to those who are severely injured, chronically ill, and their caregivers free of charge. These are only a few of the charities I found. There are tons of websites out there, looking for donations.

Slytherin, done!

2006-04-18T13:46:00.000-04:00

I just finished the Slytherin section of the comfortghan. I set a time limit of 1:30 before I switched over to working on buisness crochet, but with only a small section left to do to complete it, I stretched to 1:40 and finished up. After a nap, I'll start on some more wrist bands. I've decided to post back up my Amineko Pattern for free. I had a sort of conversation with myself about crochet, and what it means to me, and this was part of the result. It's in the original Free Amineko Patern Translation post. Allergies suck, btw.

Gryffindor, done!

2006-04-17T20:44:00.000-04:00

I completed the first quarter of the Harry Potter comfortghan I'm making for my student. When my SIL's camera is done charging, I'll be sure to take a pic and post it up here. I'm working on the Slytherin section now. I'm using Red Heart Super Saver yarn for this, like most my projects. Gryffindor colors are maroon and gold; Slytherine is dark green and silver; Hufflepuff is black and yellow; Ravenclaw is light blue and bronze. Each quadrant is taking less than a skein of each color to do - which is a lot less than I thought. I bought 2 skeins of each color I needed, even though I had at least one skein of each color at home already. I got the student's mailing address from the school before I left for break this week. I'm hoping that I can have it done before the week is up, and in the mail on Saturday. On the business front, I got done three pairs of wrist warmers done today with help from the Girlfriend. We went out this weekend and spend another load of cash on supplies for the sale in 2 weeks - a cash box, some lights, display stuff, etc. We also saw a sale on flip-flops, so I'm crocheting some add-ons to those and selling them off at the sale as well. I got a RAOK today from one of my buddies at DoD. I highly reccommend you go and buy some of your own shea buttah from Deneen ASAP. The jasmine kind is lovely. For some reason, the smell of jasmine always reminds me of going to EPCOT Center with my family years and years ago. ...but I digress.

Burning the Crochet Candle

2006-04-13T13:02:00.000-04:00

I need to get down to some serious crocheting in the next 10 days. I have them off of work, thank God. Not only do I want to finish the comfortghan I'm working on, I need to add some more stock for my sale in 2 weeks. I'm wagering that if I get a good 8-10 hours in a day, I can do it.

Comfortghan for a Pre-Teen

2006-04-11T07:03:00.000-04:00

I got to work yesterday morning, and found out that a student of mine had a mother that ODed in front of her last night and died. Bare in mind that I am a special needs teacher, so generally, my students have issues-a-bound to deal with already. This was a Mom who had a stomach stapling surgery last year. Staff was worried then that Mom wouldn't make it through the surgery, since it was so dangerous. We were upset that she was putting her own vanity above her daughter's needs. Mom wasn't dangerously obese - maybe around 200lbs. We could see if the doc said "have this surgery because you might die from the weight", but she was no where near that. It was totally for looks. Since she had the surgery and lost 90lbs, her priorities had been all about her looks and getting a boyfriend and living like a teenager. She was always out, and kept canceling meetings on us when the staff wanted to talk about her daughter's struggles. She got her and her daughter evicted from their home (not sure why...) and hooked up with this boyfriend who the daughter HATED. Boyfriend got arrested, went to jail, then recently came back. This 8th grader has serious emotional issues to begin with. I can just imagine what this is going to do to her. She is one of the girls I crochet with here at work. After spending the day in a daze, pondering what to make her that would at least put a small smile on her face, I settled on a comfortghan. It might be hard to picture in your head, but I'll do my best to describe my "idea". Since this student is Harry Potter obsessed, I'm taking the colors of the different "houses" and incorperating them into granny squares. I've divided the blanket into 4 sections, each one for the house. Because the Gryffindor colors are gold and maroon, all of the granny squares in the Gryffindor section will be gold and maroon, or mixed. In the center of this section I have a solid gold sc'ed square, with a "G" stitched on. I'll do the same for the other three houses in the other three quadrants. I'm trying to do this project as fast as I can. Last night I hoped to get 10 squares done, but with trying to figure out the design, I only got 8 done. Tonight, I'm hoping to do at least 8 more. Folks have emailed me and asked me how they can help. All I ask is for positive thoughts / prayers for this young girl...she certainly needs it.

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2006-04-06T10:34:00.000-04:00

Stepping Out to the Business World

2006-03-30T09:54:00.000-05:00

It's official! I'm in business! I've been booked for my first craft fair, and I've began a sales section to my blog. I've got all my stuff available for sale. I have been doing testing all this week at work, so I've had a lot of time to get my stock up, crocheting during the day while the kiddos are filling in those evil bubbles. Girlfriend has cracked the whip, and my yarn splurging is over for a while. I'm in slight mourining, since I've been getting all sorts of sales flyers from AC Moore and Joann's. She's doing the numbers end of my new endevor, and has even done a few wrist bands. I'm looking into doing a Memorial Day weekend craft fair, and one at this HUGE event in Fall River during the summertime. It's kind of hard finding craft fairs if you already aren't involved in them. I'm hoping to network soon.

Craft Fairs : The New Frontier

2006-03-20T18:44:00.000-05:00

I've been crocheting my ass off. I've signed up to do my first craft show ever, and it's only 4 weeks away. I haven't been 100% approved yet, so I'll hold of on giving out all the details. But as soon as I get that "OK", I'll be adverstising like a mad woman. I spent the weekend working on scarves and cozies. I didn't even have time to take pics of them. Yeah, I'm a slacker-blogger.

Even the Danes Love Amineko!

2006-03-17T07:16:00.000-05:00

I got this email the other morning: Dear Sarah Jane, I am Bettina from Denmark. :o) I am participating in a Danish knitting (crafting) group and we stumbled over your translated pattern for the Japanese Amineko Cat. I was wondering if you would have any objections if I translaetd this pattern into Danish, with credits going your way, of course? We are in no way a commercial group so I cannot in any way believe that any of us would exploit the pattern and use hereof. Warm regards, Bettina, Denmark Yay! Of course I said I had no problem, and I asked if it was alright if she send me back the Danish version of the Amineko pattern to post here for those interested.

First Round of Aminekos using My Pattern!

2006-03-13T18:51:00.000-05:00

Brag time! Chriscrochetcrazy over at crochetville used my pattern to create these Amineko. How awesome do they look? I'm very proud. Good job, CCC!

Bouncing Baby Projects

2006-03-10T11:51:00.000-05:00

One of my friends at work is having a baby. This is the first baby that's come around since I began crocheting, so I'm in the hunt for project to make for the lil one. She's not sure of the sex yet, but I don't think I'll do the typical blue/pink thing anyway. I wanted something a bit more unique. Here are some ideas I'm bouncing around... Colorful Modern Baby Blanket - But, I have to figure out how to make those circulair granny squares. I'd split up the work of making the squares with a work-mates that also crochets. I do like the color choices, and with AC Moore's sale this weekend, I'm all about stocking up. Baby Poncho This is working off of this pattern, but using baby yarn, and a 3.25 needle. Again, I'd go with something a little more unique, color wise. Maybe I'll make a matching one for "big sis", who's 4. Crown Hat - for the older sister. Her name is Sarah (like mine!), which means "princess" in Hebrew. The only problem with this possibility, is that I'd have to go and buy the book for the pattern. Maybe I'd do a mini-one for the prince or princess to be! Fingerless Baby Mittens - too cool for school. Again, pattern needed, but I think I can suss this one out, using my own pattern. Mary Jane Booties - so much better than traditional booties. And, pattern included!

Fun Food Crochet Linkage

2006-03-07T07:25:00.000-05:00

I want to make all of these! Piece o’ Cherry Pie Lots of Food (1) Lots of Food (2) Loads and Loads of Foodie Patterns Lots of Food (3) And these are my number-one-of-all-time-must-make-these-items : Twinkie's Fridge

Animal Farm in Single Crochet

2006-03-05T19:13:00.000-05:00

This weekend was certainly productive! All day Saturday, I worked on my first amineko, and Sunday, I completed two amigurumi for Girlfriend's family. Saturday, my fingers were sore after the marathon session on my cat. Well, my ring finger...still haven't figured out why it gets so sore. As far as progress goes, kitty has a head, a body, two arms, and two ears. I'm guessing I won't get to work on it until next weekend, since I've tended to come home from work and crash on the couch for the evening. Sunday was a little easier on my fingers. I think it's because I took more breaks than I usually do, and stitch-wise, I didn't do that many. Those amigurumi are quick! My living room's beginning to look like Joann's threw up on my couch, so it's time to go a little clean up before Girlfriend grumbles.

UFO/WIP Updates - With Piccys!

2006-03-04T12:40:00.000-05:00

Yay to future SIL for letting me borrow her digi cam. Here's a running list of the Works In Progress / UnFinished Obeject I'm working on: Amigurumi Piggy for the Girlfriend's Mother - about 40% done. This is my first amigurumi project, and other than having a bit trouble with the tightness of the stitches, I'm enjoying it. This is my only project with a deadline, so I'm assuming it'll be the first one done. Cathedral Rose Window Afghan - about 20% done. This is a looooooong project that I haven't touched for a week or so. I don't take it to work with me, so it only gets done on the weekends, or days off. Amineko (Japanese Crocheted Cat) - about 15% done. I just started this weekend on Mr. Kitty here. He's just a head and a quarter of a torso. I'm using the free amineko pattern I decoded and posted on my blog. Red Teddy Bead - about 20% done. I haven't touched this in months. I'll prolly end up frogging it. 96 Granny Square afghan - about half way done. I haven't attached any squares in a while, since I've been working on the stuffed animals. The nice thing about this project is that it's easy to pop off a few squares while at work.

This Lil Amigurumi Piggy's going to my MIL's.

2006-03-02T07:55:00.000-05:00

I bought Roxy's Amigurumi Animals Collection. I'm pretty pleased with the purchace - it came super quick, and was reasonably priced. Plus, you gotta support the crafters! At any rate, it didn't have a pattern for a piggy. So, I'm taking the cow snout, cow arms and legs, the kitty ears, and making a tail of my own. When you do these Amigurumi animals, you have to crochet super-tight. My fingers are so sore after last night's crocheting of the body and head! I guess I press my hook into my ring-finger as I crochet, and it's rather banged up this morning. Why am I making a piggy, you ask? Girlfriend's mom collects Piggin's, and the British Mother's Day is at the end of March. Yes, I am kissing ass.

Little Black Cat - Translated Amineko Pattern

2006-02-28T19:07:00.000-05:00

Oh man. I've done it. I've actually found a free pattern of a Amineko. But, the problem was, it was in Japanese. Bablefish to the rescue! But, if you've used online translators before, you know that you get a rather amusing version of English. So, I put on my thinking cap, and asked around the sites I lurk at, and was able to get some help deciphering this pattern. Special thanks to yarndiva at crochetville for her extra special help, and Sushi Mifune and squambo on craftster for their initial translation help. Update! (6/11/06) The author of the Japanese pattern has posted her own 10-page translated version in English! It is different than what I have here, but that's Babelfish for ya! I would link to it directly, but per the instructions of the designer: "DO NOT link to the patterns or images on this web page directly, using my server. If you would like your visitors to see my patterns or images, please link to http://www5a.biglobe.ne.jp/~mite/index.html." Just click on the link that says "pattern of crocheted Cat with diagram (Amineko)" Happy crocheting!

Amineko (Crocheted Cat)

No needle size is given, so just use whatever the yarn calls for. As far as yarn goes, I've heard a lot of people are using Red Heart Super Saver...nice and cheap! Make sure that your crochets are tight, too. Someone suggested using a needle that is one sized smaller than called for, to make the stitches even tighter. Stuff each part as it's completed. Head Row 1: Sc 6 times into a ring (6) Row 2: 2 sc in each sc (12) Row 3: *2 sc in one stitch, then 1 sc* all the way around (18) Row 4: *2 sc in one stitch, then 2 sc* all the way around (24) Row 5: *2 sc in one stitch, then 3 sc* all the way around (30) Row 6: *2 sc in one stitch, then 4 sc* all the way around (36) Row 7: *2 sc in one stitch, then 5 sc* all the way around (42) Row 8: *2 sc in one stitch, then 6 sc* all the way around (48) Rows 9 – 15: Work even for rows 9-15 (48 each round) Row 16: *sc dec, then 6 sc* all the way around (42) Row 17: *sc dec, then 5 sc* all the way around (36) Row 18: *sc dec, then 4 sc* all the way around (30) Row 19: *sc dec, then 3sc* all the way around (24) Row 20: *sc dec, then 2 sc* all the way around (18) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Torso Row 1: Sc 6 times into a ring (6) Row 2: 2 sc in each sc (12) Row 3: *2 sc in one stitch, then 1 sc* all the way around (18) Row 4: *2 sc in one stitch, then 2 sc* all the way around (24) Row 5: *2 sc in one stitch, then 3 sc* all the way around (30) Row 6: *2 sc in one stitch, then 4 sc* all the way around (36) Rows 7 – 23: Work even for rows 7-23 (36 each round) Row 24: *sc dec, then 4 sc* all the way around (30) Row 25 & 26: Work even all the way around (30) Row 27: *sc dec, then 3 sc* all the way around (24) Row 28 & 29: Work even for rows 28 & 29 (24 each round) Row 30: *sc dec, then 2 sc* all the way around (18) Rows 31 & 32: Work even for rows 31 & 32 (18 each round) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Arm & Hand (make 2) Row 1: Sc 6 times into a ring (6) Row 2: 2 sc in each sc (12) Rows 3 – 6: Work even (12 each round) Row 7: *sc dec, then 1 sc* all the way around (8) Rows 8 – 28: Work even (8 each round) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Leg & Foot (make 2) Row 1: Sc 6 times into a ring (6) Row 2: 2 sc in each sc (12) Row 3: *2 sc in one stitch, then 3 sc* all the way around (15) Rows 4-7: Work even (15 each round) Row 8: *sc dec, then 1 sc* all the way around (10) Rows 9-24: Work even (10 each round) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Tail Row 1: Sc 6 times into a ring (6) Row 2: *2 sc in one stitch, then 2 sc* all the way around (8) Rows 3-22: Work even Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Ear (make 2) Row 1: Sc 4 times into a ring (4) Row 2: 2 sc in each sc (8) Row 3: *2 sc in one stitch, then 3 sc* all the way around (10) Row 4: *2 sc in one stitch, then 4 sc* all the way around (12) Row 5: *2 sc in one stitch, then 5 sc* all the way around (14) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off. Mouth Row 1: Sc 7 times into a ring (7) Row 2: *2 sc in one stitch, then 7 sc* all the way around (14) Rows 3-10: Work even Row 11: Make 4 decreases, but instead of making a "two stitches decrease", you pick up 3 stitches, then 4, then 4, then 3. (end up with 4 stitches in the end) Leave a 12" tail and fasten off.

Assembly

Attaching Head to Body: Partially stuff the head and the body, leaving some wiggle room around the neck area. Stitch the sc's of the head opening to the sc's of the body opening, leaving enough room to poke through the last of the stuffing. When stuffed, stitch the opening shut. Attaching Arms to Body: I attach the tops of the Arms right underneith the Head. Join the Arm to the Body by stitching the Arm shut flat (not rounded), then attaching this flattened part to the Body. Attaching Legs to Body / Tail to Body: These I stitched to the Body as I did the Head - not flattened, but round. I made the initial mistake of stitching the Legs in too high...be sure of where you want it placed before you begin stitching. Attaching Ears to Head: This was pretty straight-forward. I just made sure that the ears had a bit of a curve to them before I stitched them in place, simmilar to a real cat's ears. Attaching Muzzle to Head: Again, pretty simple and straight forward. I added embelishments after it was stitched to the head - not before.

If you have any suggestions about altering the pattern. I'll post up completed pics of any completed projects on my blog.

Black eye for camera thief!

2006-02-26T15:32:00.000-05:00

Man, my parent borrowed the digi cam, and it got stolen out of their RV over their vacation. Boo. So now I have to figure out a way to get pics up without a replacement. As far as crochet goes, I've started piecing together my granny square afghan, and gotten rather far on my Cathedral Rose afghan. I'd say pics are to come, but I'm not sure when. Maybe I can borrow lil bro's camera phone to take some piccys. I joined 25 Things for Charity, as well.

Olympic Victory!

2006-02-20T18:19:00.000-05:00

Yay, vacation. I've completed my Olympics goal of 40 squares, and moving on to getting my total of 96 done. It's my first attempt at sewing blocks together, and it's not coming out that bad. It was kind of depressing seeing that 40 blocks only took up a few rows of my afghan. But, onward! Adding to my list of WIPs, I've started the Cathedral Window afghan. Man, this is a bitch of a project. It's my new Everest. I'm playing tag between it, and my granny squares.

Vacation begins in Little Black Pajamas

2006-02-17T12:09:00.000-05:00

Oh man. It's vacation time. One of the rewards of being a teacher - February break! I get a whole week to sit on my tookus and crochet! I will meet my Crochet Olympics goal for sure, and maybe (just maybe) I can make the 96 I need to complete my afghan. I'd post pictures of what I've been up to, but the 'rents went to Vegas and borrowed my digi cam. Maybe I can borrow my brother's cell phone to take pics from. I've spent a lot of time over at the Crochetville Forums, and save for one over-zealous poster, all the folks there are extremely helpful and friendly. I've already stumbled upon two future projects - 63 Easy-To-Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan and an unbelievably gorgeous Cathedral Window afghan. Man, my list of wanna-do-s is growing!

	How and when you met.
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	How you would feel if you were forced to be apart.