Showin' Off

Neighborhood In the Fall

2011-10-26T14:39:00.003-05:00

Just last week the trees across the street looked like this...
And this week they look like this...

I love Fall in Kansas City.

My Spy Name

2011-10-25T15:56:00.000-05:00

Chardonnay Hooker
Glass in hand she hooks along
through the night!

Five Years Ago Today

2011-10-25T15:35:00.002-05:00

Five years ago today, my life changed. My mom passed away from tumors and cancer at home. Her 3 year battle with cancer finally ended.

I am sad that she is gone, but my dreams keep her fresh at heart. Just last night I dreamt I was flying to California for vacation, alone. I did not want to go to Disney Land, I wanted to go to the beach. She wanted to go so badly that I said ok but realized when she was packing that she did not have a ticket. When I woke up, she was standing outside on the street with the very few, last oddities that she was willing to pawn for a ticket as I was leaving without her. The symbol there is, I have gone on without her without fear or fret.

Most of my dreams are not sappy, they don't make me cry when I am awake, but instead, I am irritated. That is the mood she provoked in me most of the time. I was always mad at her for her lies, or her deep emotions that were toxic. Don't get me wrong. My mom wasn't a total witch, but in the end the cancerand pain she had made her very, very sour. That is what I dream about with her. That is what makes them so real. Deep down I must miss the arguing with her, or trying to prove my point. She was great at provoking me. Love ya mom.

But now, five years later...My life is super boring! It is wonderful. I can go home in any mood I want and not have to choke it down. I detox by singing in the traffic and release my day's crap-o-la. My husband and I have our very own life together. I wish she could see how much we have grown. I am very sure she would be proud. *** Here is my kudo's to me...My husband and my mother lived in the same house for 10 years with this deep dislike for each other. They tried to keep it light for me, but that failed most of the time. She complained about him and he complained about her. Our friends complained about them to me. UGGG. But my kudo's is: I never took a side. I did not pick. The BEST life lesson I ever learned and practice.

So my normal, boring life is practically perfect except I don't have my mom to listen to my crap. Let is also be learned, my friends, that A Mother is the only person that listens to you and really cares about what you just said. Good or bad, Happy or Sad. And if you are not careful in what you say...the Mother is the one that will quote you on it later!

Here is to you, Mom. I miss you.

Side tracked

2011-07-30T22:05:00.003-05:00

Fig does not want me to crochet tonight.

"Day 11

2011-07-30T22:05:00.001-05:00

I have lost 11 lbs so far. My energy is up and I am not as hungry as I was to start.

Another Dana Original

2011-07-30T22:03:00.001-05:00

These are my "Live Necklaces". Little clay pots with succulants planted in them. Each one is no larger than 2 inches tall. These were the test run. I will have more colors and variety later.

Day 10

2011-07-27T20:56:00.001-05:00

9.4 lbs! I am past the water weight if you ask me. Working out, following a 1300 calorie diet and drinking so much water is helping. What I don't understand is the non support. The employees of the gym are non supportive. But whatever. I really dont need them.

I would rather go to the gym and work out with out them noticing then attending the classes. I am accountable for me. I want this for me.

I am getting used to the calories...even though I had bread for dinner. Just because.

Day 9

2011-07-26T12:30:00.002-05:00

Today is day 9. I have lost a total of 8 lbs.
I have kept mostly under my 1380 calorie goal per day. The first couple of days, I was hungry. Not so much the past few days. Working out is not a "drippy" as the first couple of days. And I am trying to be consistent with the 20 minute workout which is not so bad working out 3 times a week. Maybe soon, I can find the time at work to do it every day. Something to look forward to.

The Challenge

2011-07-18T14:25:00.003-05:00

Saturday and Sunday I used the detox soup to prep for the Challenge. It was tasty, but I was really ready for FOOD today.
I did not have coffee this morning. Not part of my plans, but I can live through a day with out the caffeine. Go figure! Don't ask about my headache...lol. I have had about 64 oz of water and I am still thirsty. GO WATER!
And I have walked on the tread mill for 10 minutes. I will hit it again later.
Here is what I found; this info online and it seems like common sense to me. http://commonsensehealth.com/Diet-and-Nutrition/Best_Ways_to_Increase_Metabolism_Naturally.shtml

1. Make a Commitment. Like any established bad habit, nothing will change unless you make a commit to changing your behavior.
2. Practice awareness. To be more conscious of what's happening, jot down when and what you eat and how you feel before and afterwards.
3. Manage your stress. Healthy emotional distress management is an important life skill. Positive ways to reduce stress include regular exercise, relaxation techniques and getting support from family and friends.
4. Be physically active. Exercise reduces stress and is a great mood enhancer too. So be sure you make time for regular physical activity.
5. Create new comforts. Make a list of healthy activities you enjoy. And, whenever you feel the need, treat yourself to something on your list.
6. Start eating healthier. When you eat for health you'll choose more high fiber foods, such as vegetables, beans, whole grains and fresh fruits, plus healthy high protein foods, like fish, lean poultry and low-fat dairy. 7. Eat mini-meals often. By eating 5 or 6 small healthy meals a day, including breakfast, you help keep your blood sugar and moods stable.
8. Get rid of temptations. Don't keep unhealthy food in the house, don't shop for food when hungry or stressed and plan ahead before eating out.
9. Get enough sleep. When you're tired, it's easier to give in to emotional eating. Consider taking a nap and be sure to get a good nights sleep.
10. Use healthy distraction. Instead of overeating, take a walk, surf the Internet, pet your cat or dog, listen to music, enjoy a warm bath, read a good book, watch a movie, work in the garden or talk to a friend.
11. Practice mindfulness. Mindful eating means paying attention to the act of eating and observing your thoughts and feelings in the process.
12. Get some support. TAMARA is my buddy and I have my team at work.

I have found that the book on Buddhism is also giving me better mind balance. It is putting many things in my life into prospective. Happiness is truly inside!
We will call this
DAY 1

Damn that movie Marley and Me!

2011-07-11T16:21:00.002-05:00

Today is a sad day. We took Buddy, our yellow lab to the vet. As I suspected, he has many tumors. One on each hip, in his neck and on his belly. Over the past 2 weeks he has been dropping weight so fast so the tumors have become obvious. Pete thought maybe he had heart worms, wishful thinking on his part I believe.
We have 3 options for Buddy. Chemo, Steroids that will prolong his life and put him to sleep. The vet said that he may have 3 weeks or so before he gets to the point of being in pain or going downhill really fast. Buddy is almost 11 years old.

Buddy is at home right now. He is an old boy and we do not want him to suffer. The decision will be hard any way we go. Every time we look at him we frown though. All we see now is his sickness. My poor husband has been so sad since we noticed Buddy getting ill. He did not sleep at all last night because he knew Buddy was going to the vet today.

Poor Buddy. I think I will go home and make him a homemade dinner. I will give him all the things he would love to have but can't cause they say it is bad for dogs.

Cheif

2011-07-06T14:52:00.001-05:00

My name is Chief. I am a 4 year old pedigreed Basset Hound (French for "rather low dog"). I was living in Half Way, Missouri until yesterday, July Fourth. Independence Day! I was trotting down the center of Mo Highway 32, right before you get to the Half Way Baptist Church (I know, I know.... what's the other half?) when I was nearly mowed down by an SUV. I followed the SUV down to the highway shed, where they stopped, hoping they'd let me in their nice, cool car. No way, Jose. But luckily, my new friend Susan turned around and came back to see about me. She didn't know me but let me get in her car, where I promptly spread around muddy paw prints and shed a bunch of hair so I'd be more comfortable. She drove me to a bunch of places, mostly where no one was home, and asked me if it was my house. Nope. Nope. Nope. Finally we pulled into my driveway. Susan knocked on the door and my dad came out and yelled at me. I cowered and rolled over on my back, hoping he wouldn't hit me. He told Susan that he couldn't do anything with me and that I wouldn't stay in the yard. I could see that Susan instantly recognized that THERE WAS NO FENCE separating my yard from busy highway 32, and appreciated the danger. She also suggested to my dad that he should not hit me. "Do you want him?" my dad asked. "I've been trying to give him away." Mind sharp as a steel trap, my new BFF Susan sized up the situation and knew that if she left me there, I would likely be run down on the highway and would definitely get a smack from my dad. We were gone before dad could change his mind. Susan is a very nice lady, but she already has three kids. Her accommodations are comfortable, but crowded. I need more space. I need someone who will take me for walks and rides in the car or who has a big back yard with maybe one or two other dogs to play with.

Is that you? If you think it might be, please Email Danaroberts76@gmail.com

Thank you for your time.

Love, Chief. P.S.

I am not capable of making puppies and play well with others, even cats. I am not accustomed to spending much time inside as I lived on a farm. My shots are about due and Susan has offered to pay for them if you would like to take me home with you.

Shopping for Books at the Thrift Stores...

2011-07-05T18:50:00.010-05:00

What the Colors in your Aura Reveal!

Maybe I will light some candles and draw a bath to read this one. LOL

Something I have been wanting to learn more about!

Hundreds of questions you'd only ask a doctor after your third Martini...

Sounds like an interesting Bathroom Read to me.

An Explanation of the Budddhist Way of Life

I almost feel like the "hunt" for the books surpasses the actual read. I am so excited to find these books, to peel open the cover and digress into a self consumed fog within the books. YUM!

BITE ME

2011-07-01T16:12:00.002-05:00

I am reading between two books. Natural Cures is my homework per say. I am going to be working on a "lifestyle change". Tee Hee Hee. This Idea came about from a conversation about the 500 Calorie diet. Yes, 500 calorie=not enough to live on diet. The concept is not imposing any toxins and eating clean while your body eats on the stored fat. It is a quick diet and a hormonal diet. Needless to say, I am researching on this information.

But for the fun side of life, I am reading BITE ME.

Bite Me a Love Story. I am having a hard time keeping with it because the first chapters of this book is summing up the last book, YOU SUCK. I liked the last book a lot so I hope this one picks up soon...

YOU SUCK

2011-07-01T16:02:00.002-05:00

A Great Book I read in 2 days. It is everything I would want in a book with humor near mine. I could relate with this book and the plot was a little different then the normal Vampire.

Now I am going to start Bite Me which is a book that leads off of You Suck.

I have a pile of at least 10 books I am wanting to read. Wish me luck!

Quote for the Week

2011-06-06T12:54:00.002-05:00

"When we are mindful of every nuance of our natural world, we finally get the picture;

that we are only given one dazzling moment of life here on Earth,

and we must stand before that reality both humbled and elevated,

subject to every law of our universe and

grateful for our brief but intrinsic participation with it.

~Elizabeth Gilbert~

The Garden is Planted!

2011-05-17T15:04:00.010-05:00

Out of the 5 raised garden beds that we made, I have slowly been planting. Last night I finished planting the last bits. I bought 22 tomato cages and cut up many saplings to use as bean poles which we set in place.

We have 4 types of lettuce, rainbow swiss chard, carrots, radishes, collards, greens, kale, cabbage, and broccoli.

We ahve red and yellow onions, fennel, basil, cilantro, Armanien Cukes, burpless cukes, and regular cukes.

Sugar snap peas, Zennia flowers, butterfly weed, and sunflowers galore.

Over 50 tomato plants in all; grape tomatos, yellow tomatos, yellow pear tomatos, white and purple tomatos, stripped tomatos, and of course the reds.

12 different pepper plants; Hot peppers, sweet peppers, bell peppers, and too hot to eat peppers.

Three types of egg plant, spaghetti squash, yellow squash and zuccini. Miniture pumpkins will then fill in the corner of the fence.

These are the first bites from the garden.

At the end of the run, I took the starts of tomatos out of the Areo garden and potted them up in a basket of tomato goodies for Mrs. Brown, Pete's boss. In the basket she got crushed egg shells with instructions, fertalizer with instructions, and coffee grounds with instructions. It is so fun to share.

Pete then took a few tomato plants to his coworkers. A kind of bragging rights, I would say.

I am having too much fun with these gardens so far...lets see if I feel the same later in the summer. LOL

Fishin'

2011-05-17T11:51:00.005-05:00

A weekend away from the daily grind. My hubby told the neighbor yesterday that "We caught a Mess of fish this past weekend". A mess of crappie, meaning well over 20. Mister Mister cleaned them and we packaged them in the freezer.

This coming weekend they are going down to cathc a MESS MORE. Which means:

FISH FRY soon!

Happy 15th Birthday to My Minion girl.

2011-05-15T19:39:00.010-05:00

We went to the lake house for Miss C's 15th Birthday Weekend. It was very chilly all weekend, but no rain. That didn't stop us from having fun. We fished all weekend. Well, we also dug up a bunch of Iris from abandoned places.

Chelsie had no issues with kissing fish...

Nikki, would hardly let me get the fish near her...

We froze our bottoms off catching the crappie and this tiny bass.

Then we headed home ...

When we got home, I made her minion cup cakes.

Well, I don't bake but I can manage...lol

The only thing I would change, is to actually make the icing instead of store bought. The gel icing runs and the eyeballs sagged. LOL

The Tulip Chapter

2011-05-10T15:52:00.016-05:00

This is the Tulip Chapter of my Photography. All of these pictures were taken in my very own yard.

What not to Crochet...

2011-05-10T10:11:00.007-05:00

Not my work:

Photographs by Dean Kaufman.

I Yarn-Bombed This
An insatiable crocheter makes sweaters for bikes, teapots, and entire apartments.
By Wendy Goodman
Published May 1, 2011

OBSESSION: Crochet

Growing up in harshly cold, gray Ruda Slaska, Poland, Agata Oleksiak (now known solely as Olek) took creative refuge in colorful crafts, making bright Barbie clothes and the occasional crocheted hat. But it wasn’t until 2002, after moving to Greenpoint and teaching herself English by watching subtitled movies, that she picked up a crochet hook at the dollar store and her former hobby erupted into an obsession. Now an established artist—she’ll show at the Smithsonian in 2012—the 33-year-old Olek covers everything from mundane household objects to public sculptures to people in her loopy yarn confections. See someone riding the subway in a head-to-toe crocheted bodysuit? Chances are, he’s Olek’s latest canvas. Her largest installation to date is a fifteen-by-fourteen-foot studio apartment, wherein every wall, picture frame, television, and toilet is wrapped in its own custom sweater. Originally stitched in Olek’s own Park Slope apartment, the crocheted mini-universe is currently exhibiting at Christopher Henry Gallery in Nolita, where it will remain until May 28. The gallery’s assistant director, Jason LeBlond, confirms what you might have speculated about Olek, who is rarely spotted not wearing a crocheted cardigan or collar: “There is no separation between her art and her life.”

http://nymag.com/homedesign/spring2011/agata-oleksiak-2011-5/

Ta Da!

2011-05-09T12:35:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day weekend we finished up the deck project!

Once we get the patio set I will take better pictures.
It is big and beautiful! We LOVE it!

May Day

2011-05-02T15:59:00.004-05:00

May first is May day.

I never really knew about it till I met Dorothy Krich from apt 1801. She was a neighbor of Mom and Dads at the 1 bedroom apartment. She never missed a beat. 81 years old and was adorable and spunky. I am sorry I have not kept in touch with her. I think she is living at Georgetown apts and is 85 or 86. But anyway...

After Heather prepared me a random basket of baked breads in a jar and an arrangement of lilacs a week or so ago, I have wanted to return the favor. I was as giddy as a school girl romping around the yard clipping flowers and mint I have grown thus far. In a really cool tin container I lined it with a kerchief and wrapped one tomato plant and one mint starter plant that I placed inside. And in an old olive jar I stored for just the occasion, I arranged fresh cut mint and 3 tulips. My May Day (basket) present for Mitch and Heather. I wanted to drive it over last night but knew that it could wait a day.

Thanks to my flexible Monday's I was able to ride home and give it to her in person. I totally think that once a week I will try to share my goodies with my other friends too. It warmed my heart to prepare it and give it.

Happy May Day!

Admin. Asst Day Lunch

2011-04-27T23:36:00.004-05:00

Greg Summers is a fellow painter along with Patricia. His art has been displayed at for a few weeks now and today we went to view his art and eat lunch. Just outside Downtown Kansas City was a little French Bistro that makes made-to-order crepes. I had the Smoked salmon, artichoke heart, caper, caramelized onions and cream sauce crepes with my two artist friends. We were surrounded by his art. I had too many favorites, but was excited to see he had prints for sale too. I found the one that I loved. A painted mural of the silo's behind our offices.

I photograph them often. I love the rust and the color the become in the different light of the day. And now I own the art print. I ate lunch with the artist!

I feel so rich today. I will add this to my bucket list and mark it off. This was a well needed luncheon. Patricia is so good to educate me and give me life lessons...we are never too busy to eat lunch with an artists! Myself included.

Ask, and ye shall recieve!

2011-04-27T23:24:00.003-05:00

When poised with the question, "can you make this" I normally can work that challenge. Stethoscope in hand I marched home, gathered the yarn and began. Purple is Angie's favorite color and Flower popped in my head. So, Flower she got!

I am taking orders for the Stethoscope sleeves. I have ideas for animals too.
Thanks to Angie at Family Health Care for the idea!

Dogwoods

2011-04-26T20:09:00.003-05:00

My grandma told me that the Dogwood tree bloom is the Sign of Easter. Jesus was nailed to the cross and this bloom represents the cross and the nails. I believe this is a Christian Religion symbol.

On my walks I love to take Pictures and Spring is one of my favorite seasons. I love living in Kansas City to see the 4 seasons.

Easter Weekend

2011-04-26T20:00:00.005-05:00

One of our last Weekend projects before the Summer starts...A deck. Before, we had a landing with stairs to the yard. We used the "New Home Rebate" to invest back into the house. By...building a deck. Once we pulled the permit with the city, we ordered the wood and got busy. All we have left to do it the railings and some little odds and ends!

Over 300 sq ft deck in one weekend.

Chelsie"s 15th Birthday gift

2011-04-26T19:54:00.003-05:00

Pete and I bought Chelsie a tat for her 15th Birthday. We got a mom and Daughter Tattoo. The foot on the right is my foot. I had my butterfly from 10 years ago. Dan drew up a blue butterfly for Miss Chelsie with flowers. He added flowers to my tattoo to be like hers. Then he touched up my tattoo to look bold and new like hers. She has been glowing since last Friday night.

I don't quite remember them hurting quite so much. She was a trooper.

Happy Early Birthday Chelsie!

My deck is GONE!

2011-04-21T13:11:00.006-05:00

I came home from work & my deck was gone!
Hubby, Chelsie's boyfriend and dad had already started to put the new deck up.
Boy did I notice that I will have a lot of painting to do when this is all over with. lol
Basically the last "deck" was just stairs leading to the patio. The New deck will be 16 x 20. Yippee!
Dinner on the deck soon! My house has become my haven. I love it dearly,
And my boys that do all the projects.

Buddy's Birthday Party

2011-04-19T11:38:00.009-05:00

Buddy's 10th Birthday!
We had a birthday party. Got hats, Hot dogs, cheezits, and Twinkies!

They Woofed it down!

Rellik was Happy to celebrate!

Oh...Time to blow out the candles!

(Buddy tried to eat the lit candles tho)

And then everyone was ready for a nap with their bellies full.

THE END

I've got you covered!

2011-04-10T20:45:00.000-05:00

Caught in the Moment

2011-04-10T20:35:00.003-05:00

It was a perfect Spring day.

Tulips bloomed over night.

And my camera phone.

I was out front photographing for at least an hour

and captured some of my best photos.

You are Beautiful inside and out

2011-04-10T20:31:00.001-05:00

This is a picture I took from my camera phone today. It is one of my tulips I planted this spring that bloomed this afternoon.

I believe this is the best picture I have taken to date.

Shocker

2011-04-04T19:12:00.000-05:00

I haven't seen you in many years and all you can say is "you look shorter". Guess that is better then you look like your mom or something as such. I would rather have not heard any comment. Well, I don't know what I thought you would say and that surprised me. Don't worry, the problem is with me, not what was said. I am still that person you knew, but better. If I still looked the same I would not have the stories I have to tell. I'm all growed up now. I wear my big girl panties and trapes off to work everyday. I love my stories. Now when you look at me you should not think of who I was, but who I am. I hope you get to meet me. I think you will like me. And if not, I'll miss you, but not much. I tend to move on so hurry and catch up. The next train is leaving.

Spring Dog Walker

2011-04-04T09:16:00.004-05:00

Springtime is the best time of the year to be a Dog Walker.

Door Project

2011-04-04T09:07:00.007-05:00

8am on Sunday they started to pour the concrete... By 10:30 we had the patio and step.

The rest of the afternoon they installed the retaining wall for the flower bed. It went from a little suggestion to a big flower bed.

Tamara gave us two 25 lb rain barrels that will be the perfect way to water the flowers and the garden beds.

The concrete is drying and next is the trim work and painting on the back of the house.

The next project is the new deck.

Stay Tuned!

Spring Flowers

2011-03-27T20:02:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, I am a DOG WALKER. Trulee and I venture around for 30-minutes.

These are the beauties that we found this weekend. 35 degrees and flurries in Kansas City.

Holes

2011-03-27T19:51:00.006-05:00

This project started as a hole. It was referred to, as a "HOLE". Like the movie "holes" by Disney.

The Mission was to turn that window into a door that walked out into the back yard...3 weekends later this is what we have.

Ready to cut into the foundation & take out the window. Mind you, it is 35 degrees outside and flurries just started.

The closet will be brought in later to add a refrigerator. Call it a mini Kitchen.

6 hours later, a concrete saw, a jack hammer and a layer of concrete dust all over the house! By the way, plastic does not work to confine the dust.

6 hours later the flurries turned into snow and the job rested...

Tune in next weekend to see the progression.

Sprouts!

2011-03-27T19:34:00.003-05:00

Mung Bean Sprouts

Seeds, Strawberries and Sun!

2011-03-21T17:11:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was just a day of Dana's ADD. Starting projects, and moving all around. I just could not find the energy to be productive, but the family was! I just pointed, told, & they did. And I LOVE them for that. The sun was out and it got up to 80 degrees; I didn't want to waste the day. We hung the wind chimes under the eves, brought out the clay pots and carefully placed the yard decor.

Chelsie and I went to Planters in downtown Kansas City on Friday. We bought Red Salvia and Ornamental Kale seeds, more kitchen sprouts, and Strawberry roots. Then yesterday I went to the garden center to get some strawberry plants. (Went nuts at the garden center, but I will talk about that later). When we got home, they planted the strawberries in the two beds I had set aside. YUM!

If I had my way, I would plant every inch of the yard and decorate! Well, if I had the endless checkbook also. lol

Back to the Nursery Garden Center...they were having their annual party. Spring celebration of tips, discounts and fun for the whole family. I was mesmerized by the hanging globe terrariums! I made one carefully and artistically, but that was not enough. I made two! They adorn both of my living room windows. And all I can say is...YUMMY!

Raised Gardens in one weekend

2011-03-07T18:34:00.003-06:00

This past weekend was

Home Project Weekend #1.

Spring is just around the corner so

the guys started Project #1 and #2.

#1 is digging the back window out and installing a door to the back yard.
The guys dug out a 4 x 10 area about 44 inches deep.
By the end of the week they hope to have all the dirt out.

#2 was building raised flower beds for our garden.
Because they were digging, we had pleanty of great soil to fill the beds.
We started with 3 and said 'what the heck".
We have 5 now!

I ammended the soil and we should be able to start our Spring veggies in 2 weeks. I am so excited!!!

Onions, pepper plants, lettuce, carrots, radishes, swiss chard, coliflower, broccoli, tomatos, egg plant, squash and more.
Don't forget the little pumpkins for the kids.

Jeep, Snow and Pete

2011-03-07T18:25:00.004-06:00

Weather brought in 12 inches of snow

to Kansas City and much of the city

shut down...schools were out and businesses

closed early so families could get home safely.

We tend to hit the streets in the Jeep and Play!

Notice what is the "Weight" in the back?

Pete loaded his Jeep with snow -playing.

This was one of the greatest Winters for the Robert's. Coworkers blamed the snow falls on us, wishing for snow.

As I know, this was one of the winters that seemed to have the most snows ever. It was like being a kid again.

~He is so happy and proud

4-wheeling around in

his project Jeep.

Feb. 2011

My African Violets Bloomed!

2011-03-07T17:41:00.003-06:00

I have 5 African Violets.

Two were a Thank you Gift from Cher and Gil, our neighbors and friends. We mowed their yard when Gil was in the hospital. We love these guys.

The other 3 were rescues from Family Tree Nursery, clearanced to their doom..before they met me.

Do you know my secret to raising them? Don't touch the leaves and water ever so gently, I keep them in a window that does not get direct light or heat/cold in the kitchen, and I just don't mess with them.

Seems to be working.

*these pictures were taken with my camera phone.

WPA Shawnee Mission West High 2011

2011-03-07T17:38:00.001-06:00

Miss Chelsie and Marko back from WPA.

Silverware Sleeves for your Lunch Box

2011-01-24T18:26:00.003-06:00

~Another Dana Original!

Silverware Sleeves

My Helpers

2011-01-24T18:22:00.003-06:00

If you have ever received a gift from me or sat close to me while I was working on a crochet project, then you have seen the added dog hairs in my work. They are everywhere. No matter how hard I try to keep my projects free from hair, they still have it. So, in all due justice, I thought I would post this picture. Mr Buddy is using my yarn as a pillow. The puppy has even taken a few skeins for a whirl around the living room a time or two. My little Fur Helpers. I love them.

KU Rellik

2011-01-17T18:31:00.002-06:00

This is a DANA ORIGINAL. I did not have a pattern for this hat, thus I totally winged it once again. As you will come to know, I don't create patterns and I don't typically use other's patterns. I just create. This hat is made with Red Heart Yarn. I normally do not prefer Red Heart, but they had the KU colors and it does not tend to loose the shape and is colorfast after several washings. It also tends to keep the Peanut (head) rather warm on the cold Kansas days.

Rellik is my little dog that I just LOVE & ADORE! He is the model for my KU Ear Muff Hat.

BLT Scarf

2011-01-17T18:24:00.004-06:00

Introducing.....

MY B.L.T. Scarf!

This is a Dana Original. I did not have a pattern for this, I just saw it in my mind and away the crochet hook went. I have at least 24-hours in this scarf. Most of the project is made from Red Heart yarn, Vanna's Choice and some misc. balls of yarn I bought at Fabric Recycles (a new, Great store that opened in Overland Park).

I don't write patterns because I don't read them all to well. My lingo is totally different...just ask my friend Tamara. I guess my crochet is kinda like everything else. The "thingy, goes with the thing-a-ma-jig, and so forth. Tee hee hee.

My 50 for 2011

2011-01-04T13:00:00.000-06:00

My 50 in 2011...
1. Loose 40 lbs & Get hubby to loose 40lbs with me
2. Go to the gym at least 3 times a week.
3. Have quiet time daily as much as possible.
4. Knit one project a month to keep up knitting
5. Get dad to work out.
6. Get the Jeep project rolling.
7. Keep up the 'blog' more often
8. stamp/scrapbook more often.
9. Plan and plant an awesome garden and keep it up
10. Get the rain barrels done and up
11. Get Chelsie and my eyes checked and new glasses.
12. Have fun dates with my friends more often
13. Bake more often.
14. Paint the shed
15. Use my recycle bags more often then I do.
16. Have a date with hubby at least once a month.
17. Start using coupons when I shop.
18. Write personal emails, messages, letters to friends to stay in touch better.
19. Keep positive, see the positive in everything (it's there).
20. Buy less.
21. Go to Vegas.
22. Purge more often & Collect less
23. Start up a Bunko group
24. Clean out the garage (with hubby of course).
25. Take a pottery class
26. Go on a hiking trip
27. Drink more water.
28. Let It GO!
29. Keep on crocheting.
30. Eat healthier.
31. Get pictures published.
32. Learn tatting
33. Spend more time at the lake
34. Get outside more (in the warmer weather).
35. LOVE others more.
36. Forgive more...both others and myself.
37. Be more consistent with my health care
38. Be more consistent.
39. Join the Garden Club
40. Compost more
41. Get my email folders all cleaned out.
42. Speak up and not hold it in.
43. Learn to not let others moods affect me and mine.
44. Stop for the small things in life.
45. Get the house organized.
46. Go outside and paint/draw when the weather is nice
47. Keep my car clean and cleaned out
48. Try to go paperless.
49. Play more board games with family
50. Focus on family and keeping drama out of our house.

Counting my blessings at the end of 2010

2010-12-30T17:51:00.002-06:00

It has been a quick year. And this past week I have had time to sit back and think about all the blessings and lessons 2010 has brought me. Christmas day I went into the hospital with the worst pain ever, childbirth is more pleasurable. Two days in the hospital with no distractions other then pain and nurses, let me think some.

This has been one of those years that I am happy to put behind me. Nothing that I could not handle, but nothing worth gloating about either.

Our circle of friends is smaller and so is family. We no longer can take the mindless crap of others that drag down. Some people will be missed and others will not. Some will be forgotten and some, we wish we could. But we still have us. Pete and I have an evergrowing relationship. Thick and thin we manage to work it out and push thru. Do away with toxic relationships, ie. friendships and family members and focus on us, that is our goal from here out.

I am saddened that family is some of the toxic throw out. I am disgusted that I had to think the things and say the things I have. That is not the person I am nor want to be. But I don't have to keep taking the crap I have taken. I finally grew that backbone I have always needed and it sucks. I am have always known to never say anything you cannot take back, and I let the anger inside get the best of me. I am over that situation and wish it had not ended that way. But it is, what it is.

Cutting loose of the apron strings is much harder then I though. That is another battle that has begun. Ugg, and sigh...?!

It is just over a year ago that we have moved and thinking back I wish we had done it sooner. property values on rentals and apartments have drastically increased and we find that the house is much more affordable then the rent. But counting blessings, we are very blessed to be able to live in a 3 generation, 3 family household and keep saine. It is so much fun to spend weekends at home fiddling here and there. I have big garden plans for Spring and Hunny do's galore!

Next up...purging out junk. I have been doing this all year and still find it everywhere. I would love to learn how to stop collecting stuff or holding onto things because there is some value to be seen...craft or what have you. I have been doing good, but would really like to speed up the process some. (giggle)

Dad is doing very well after his surgery, but now I think it is time to focus on my health. So I promise that I will take this serious and I will do what the doc says to get better. I will do more to tone up. I quit soda pop 2 years ago this week, So I have the will power.

We have the project Jeep and found this great group where we can trade off parts. The $100 junk Jeep we bought for parts have been a treasure trove for trading. (say that 5 times fast). Pete's one junk Jeep has perked up a tad with the new(er) parts. I am totally trying to get Pete to let me make some finders and bumpers for the Jeep. I think he will really like them if he will just have faith in me. So, Project Jeep is in full bloom and should keep us busy in the year to come.

And last but not least, Pete and I have done very well this year with bartering. A little work and man power here and a little fun there. We may not be able to afford the great things in life, but we do know how to work for them. I don't mind cleaning, painting and grunting around if I can kick back on the boat for awhile. =) Gonna take my little fishing pole and little tackle box to the lake this year and paddle out to the middle of the cove to catch me some crappie! Hollar back to the dock to have one of the kids snap my picture and wave to my husband and family that I love so much.

Yes, We are blessed. We have each other and we have love. Here is to another year. On with a better year, one that we make better.

Happy New Year.

Star Project

2010-12-01T15:25:00.003-06:00

I was given a task to find an ornament to do as a craft this weekend. Well it is not a clear glass ball, but even better, a recycled craft.

http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2009/11/woven-star-ornament/

This is the star in the drying process. I'll post a picture of the final star soon.

Cyber Monday

2010-11-29T12:33:00.003-06:00

Cyber Monday! No, I am not shopping online. I did plenty of shopping over the weekend on gifts. I did not get up early to brave the crowds. I got out in the drift about 9am and almost completed my shopping in a few shops. This will be a small Christmas this year, but we don't really need anything. Really all I have left to do is make the gifts I am giving and some stocking stuffers shopping in a couple of weeks.

My tree is up and decor all over the house. Just a few bushes to drape lights over and hang the wreaths. I even have some gifts wrapped. I am on a ball.

Now off to work on Christmas cards.

Soon to be Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T17:37:00.003-06:00

The excitement is rising! The holiday's are approaching...The commercials are calling me...the ads are floating around the Internet early with the Black Friday ads...I won't shop this year, but I might venture out to feel the rush of the crowds. I have been thinking up dishes for over a week now and I cannot wait to shop for the ingredients...the turkey arrived today and is thawing in the front seat of the car...the recycle bags are in the back seat ready to be filled... The countdown for Thanksgiving has started. 16 more work hours till my holiday begins...I plan on cooking a small spread that will last a couple of days. Turkey and Swiss sandwiches...YUM I am already dreaming of the leftovers. The family is small now so there more then likely will not be guests, but I will be dragging out my holiday tubs and adorning the house with Christmas decor.

I am Thankful that Dad had his surgery and has his health, Thankful that we have the beautiful home and vehicles that take us to and fro. The lake house that the Robert's boys are able to escape to, and the projects that keep them together as a family. I am thankful for each one of us having a job, they are far and few between for some families. I am thankful for my beautiful daughter and her silly boyfriend that helps us whenever he can. I am thankful for my animals that love me unconditionally and are great bed-hog-cuddlers. I am thankful to my best friend that will be the first to read this. Tamara and I were cut from the same fine linen. And I am thankful to all of my other friends that laugh, love, cry and craft with me. I am blessed and hope to spread blessings.

Dirty Pool

2010-11-18T16:36:00.002-06:00

Some weeks are just chitty from the start. Normal Monday cascades into the "work week from hell", but is not just limited to work. Personal life and activities spiral down also. Well, this has been one of those weeks and it is only Thursday. Pray tell, what will the weekend bring?

I have the Holiday Blues, missing my mom dearly, aunts and good ole' time family functions. Things just are not the same. Large family turned tiny and lonely. Money can always be an issue if I let it bother me, but holidays are approaching and that is bothersome. And last but not least, work blues. Firing a coworker almost weekly, computers that refuse to cooperate and the daily grind. My father keeps his chit up and my aunt tells me to drop him.

I have been living in a false light lately, trying to streamline and simplify to gain happiness...and free time. So far, is it working? Not only no, but hell no. I actually thought, until today, that things in life were great and I was on the upside of the hill. I have been through so much, that I could not be surprised by things at this point. That is a stupid, stupid thing to think.

Since 1994 it has been a long journey for Pete and I. It sure was bumpy in the first couple of years. I came to terms with our relationship and how I would tuck that sorrow away. He was a stupid boy and did stupid things, so did I. I forgave, did not forget. That kind of past needs to be my reminder to be that better person in life. It has been my fuel. Little reminders here and there put me in prospective that life cannot and will not be perfect.

I could not let one person keep me upset, so I did what I had to do and it was awful. I was nasty, rude, said horrible things that I knew would sting, just so she would leave me alone. I do not have to be friends with everyone. If I am nice they take advantage of me. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer...bull chit. My plan was to finally be gross and then that will be it. Or so I hope.

But a huge chunk of my ass was taken out last night! Holy crap did it hit the fan. Another secret surfaced out of the clear freakin' blue. My head is still spinning from that chit bomb. I do not know how to process that information. Do I tuck it away and use it a Diesel fuel? Or did water just put my fire out?

I feel so damaged. Just when the hurt doesn't feel quite that bad, I now feel that old wound. Thanks for throwing Salt in it Pete.

I don't want to go home. But I do want to crawl into my bed. 5 hours of sleep is not helping this situation. So here is my plan. I will go home and sleep and take tomorrow as another day. Ugg

Pouting

2010-11-15T23:38:00.002-06:00

What a bummer of a day?! So much stress at work with the technology...Will they ever fix the computers? The tension is so thick with co-workers. If only people would listen.

The phone stalking from my very own dad is so upsetting and the call to Aunt Sharon was almost worse. Egged on to give up. That is all I have done lately is give up on people. My friends are distant. My extended family is gone. I am lonely. Grandparents are sick in age.

Daughter and boyfriend broke up and grandson is sad. Shilo...poor Shilo...we will see if momma and dad can work it out. I am backing down, but hard to be distant and present all in one. Can it be fixed? Why is it harder on me then her?

And last but not least...DAMN back. Tylenol is eating up my stomach so I am working on breathing techniques. Ya, ummm...several showers a day are better.

Looking at photos tonight actually helped. I will come to terms with myself very soon. Past is the past. Long ago, needs to be lost. Friends today have their own issues and not time to vent. But still I am pretty lonely. Who wants to listen or read this crap?

Maybe the thing that was visiting Saturday night. Let's call it, HE. HE was loud and messing with the microwave again. In the rafters and in the living room, it sounded. Quite annoying, but only woke me. The dogs were fast asleep. I know I was not asleep cause I got up to go to the bath room. HE stopped when I said enough, time for bed.

Not sad, not happy, just pouting.

Rellik to the 80's

2010-11-15T22:30:00.002-06:00

http://breakingnews.michaeljackson.com/

I was a child of the 80's and a person could say I am stuck there. My daughter even loves the 80's...music, movies and some fashions.

As a preteen, I idol ed Michael...wanted the red jacket. My mom worked her magic and took me to Arrowhead Stadium to see him. I remember every detail.

I was actually saddened to hear he passed away. I got the call at Day Camp just after I heard the words roll out of Susan Hockers mouth, I was sitting at the picnic table eating lunch. I actually thought it was a rumor but it was true.

So, I love that they have released some of his work. And from what I hear from this song is that This will be a HUGE LABEL. Young and Old miss him. Even his weirdness...off to listen to the song again.

The boys

2010-11-10T14:56:00.002-06:00

Other then the really messy hair...I think my husband is handsome. I totally think he is hot when he cuddles with the pups. Rellik and Pete have this really interesting habit. While Pete is watching tv, Rellik will hop up in his lap and sit straigh up in the crook of his arm to watch tv. Rellik really thinks he is human. Some days I agree.

These are two of my boys. I love my boys.

Halloween Traditions

2010-11-08T14:12:00.003-06:00

Savannah, Jeff and Race car driver Jacob popped in on Halloween. Halloween, and any holiday I should admit, has changed for me. My girl is growing up so fast and I am loosing my grip on my holiday traditions. This year, we kept one tradition for Halloween and that was Chipotle. For many years we have gone to Chipotle at 5:30, stood in line with foil ears, or accessories, and ordered our BooRito. Up until this year, they were free. But I did not mind paying $2 this year. Good filling dinner before treats. And then we would go off to hit the streets for goodies. But not this year.

I was ready to let her go on her own. The "Boyfriend" and her had matching bee costumes to match the puppy. And then went around together. My neighbors had the garage door up, candy dishes out, a grill and an adult party going on. So, why not? I did the same. We pulled the fire pit to the front of the house, got out some chairs, candy, camera and had our very own Halloween gathering. Savannah brought over Jacob and they were some of the very few trick or treaters we had. Maybe a Search light in the sky next year will bring in more kids...lol.

With better planning for next year, I think we have a new tradition. My husband was very handsome in the glow of the campfire. I can eaisly get used to this.

Transcending the Material

2010-10-22T16:51:00.003-05:00

From the web site:

These photos document “Transcending the Material”, a mixed media piece that I created and installed while in residence at the Wassaic Project (an arts collective and residency program located in New York state). The piece was exhibited at the Wassaic Project Summer Music and Arts Festival...

Read more and see more pics by clicking the attached link. I am awestruck!

http://bencuevas.wordpress.com/2010/10/21/transcending-the-material/?ref=nf

Crochet with Paper

2010-09-13T18:11:00.002-05:00

Self Taught

Viviana Santamarina

Check out her site at http://vivianasantamarina.blogspot.com/search/label/Paper%20Crochet

Baby Shilo

2010-09-13T17:29:00.004-05:00

Meet my Grand~puppy

Shilo.

He is 6 weeks old and 2.5 lbs. (we weighed him at the pet store...lol)

He is a Tree Climber Coon Hound and Pointer mix.

He had 10 siblings-poor momma.

Chelsie and Marko got him in Grain Valley Mo. on

September 12, 2010.

Hamburger Dress

2010-08-30T18:28:00.002-05:00

http://www.buzzfeed.com/scott/crochet-hamburger-dress

Wow...If I only had freetime...I too could...

Nope. Don't think I would.

*this is not my work. I just thought it was worth the mention.

Income Tax Kitty

2010-08-23T16:42:00.004-05:00

199?- August 23, 2010

Rest in Peace, Mink Mink.

You were a loyal and Bitchy kitty.

We were lucky to have you in our life.

You will be missed, Mink Mink in the sink.

Potholders!

2010-08-12T15:22:00.003-05:00

(NOT MY WORK)

I totally want to just stay home and crochet for a living...
"if Only!".

http://delights-gems.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-06-10T13%3A34%3A00-05%3A00&max-results=7

I love her blog and she is inspiring.

I love cotton and I like making potholders. Not the ones you use, the ones you "Display".

Her site gives me ideas!

Christmas is coming up...

Chillin' Like a Villin'

2010-08-10T15:42:00.002-05:00

It was 90 degrees at 8:30 this morning on my way into work. The heat index, whatever that is, is going to be 115-120 degrees today. This is the time of the year I hate. I melt in the car, my yard dies from the heat and sun, and it is miserable to be outside. My dogs look at me like it is my fault, I truly think they believe that I control the temps outside like I do inside...lol.

I can picture myself sitting in this chair, barefoot, listening to Stevie Nicks with a glass of Zin crocheting Christmas gifts. But only if it is above 85 degrees! If it is cooler...

I am totally outside, in the sun, listening to the wind and birds, crocheting!

Happy Hooking!

P.s. My chair would be rainbow colors with black trim!

(this is not my chair...I found this pic on someones blog. She writes in Spanish, so I am not sure where she got this pic.)

I LOVE THIS YARN!

2010-08-09T18:09:00.008-05:00

My head is full of projects and ideas...there is just not enough time to do them in.

To do? or Not to do? That is the question!

I have a Fall inspired baby blanket to finish that is the corner start diagonal. I am on the decreasing side of the blanket, which goes much faster. I am working it in I LOVE THIS YARN. And I do, I truely love this yarn. I would trade my Red Heart in a Heart Beat for I LOVE THIS YARN.

I do have to admit that I crossed the line and stepped back into xxxx how dare I say it xxxx "Red Heart" last weekend. I was shopping at my local Wally World (Wal-Mart for those who have not heard of it before) and just Happened UPON the Yarn section. WOOPS!

It has been reworked in my town for the new lines of yarns. Red Heart has a self-striping yarn out. It was teal, orange, hot pink, brown and white...lime greens too. But anyway, was pretty exciting and eyecatching. I grabbed a skein, which is always in budget regardless to the quantity at home and the dollar amount in the checkbook.

Once home, I made up a set of hand warmers while watching the movie SIGNS for the millionth time. Yep, I can crochet and watch tv. "Nerd"? Yes. I pushed the envelope and added decor. Pretty much impressed myself with the extras. So with that, they have been in my project bag waiting to meet the next set. I have a list of people in my head that "NEED" a set to warm them for Christmas...that upcoming, holiday that is pressing on my brain!

Projects rolling around in my head. Hats, Scarves, Dish cloths, Baby bags (sleep sacks, if you will)... My Wine Inspired blanket for UFO nights.

And this Lime Green I LOVE THIS YARN now becons me. Thanks Linda, who shipped me a Birthday Exchange box with two skeins of it, a great bag pattern, apron for gardening, a lovely wood fan, and a handtowel with a humming bird on it. The green is meant for the bag pattern, but I just want to pair it with my softer lime green I LOVE THIS YARN for a Ripple!!! Now that I can make the RIPPLE... I Must MAKE the RIPPLE!

But, first, I must make up her belated birthday box and ship it to her!

Totally Groovy

2010-07-07T14:26:00.002-05:00

Yep. I have plans! =)

I cannot decide if I want mine painted up like this or a solid color like blue?!

http://web420.com/blog/blog5.php/tag/vw+cars:

VW

2010-07-06T16:43:00.003-05:00

I can picture myself and my husband cruising down the highway in our Blue VW. I am taking the landscape in while he is driving. The inside is adorned in my crochet handiwork.

I believe I will work this into my 5 year plan.
2015 is not that far away.

Great site with videos on Knots

2010-06-29T13:01:00.001-05:00

http://stormdrane.blogspot.com/

I think I will be visiting this site a lot to learn knots.
This is my new summer obsession, thanks to Mary!

How to braid a survival bracelet

2010-06-29T11:50:00.002-05:00

This is not my photo...go to this link to see how to do it!

http://www.paracordbraiding.com/survival.htm

Yep,

My new addiction!

2010-06-07T15:04:00.000-05:00

Crocheted Rugs

2010-05-18T14:45:00.003-05:00

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2010/05/12/garden/20100513-rugs-slideshow-13.html

$1500 Rugs

Verticle Gardening-Yummy

2010-05-18T14:42:00.001-05:00

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2010/05/05/garden/20100506-wall-slideshow-4.html

The article
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/06/garden/06vertical.html

Summer Bucket List

2010-05-04T16:00:00.003-05:00

This is not my work. I am cyber stalking the Flicker Crochet Pool today. I am just in a mood and this photo stream makes me feel happy. I must admit that this summer I am going to start a rainbow blanket. I am in love with all of the wonderful colors. So, my bucket summer list is:

1. Finish the Red Wine Blanket
2. Start a Rainbow blanket
3. Finish the Orange muck blanket for Donna
4. Crochet, crochet, crochet.

That about does it for now!

Garden is tilled!

2010-04-02T13:18:00.001-05:00

This week we tilled and planted:

Snow Peas
Green Beans
Summer Squash
Cucumbers
Lettuce
Swiss Chard

We found 4 dead snakes that Rellik Killed, Set up our compost bins made out of old pallets, and picked up a load of free landscape rock from a Freecycler.

Lucet's

2010-03-30T12:35:00.001-05:00

http://www.duchyofalhambra.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/lucet-patterns.pdf
Pattern to make the lucet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BPO98fO3ns&feature=related
Tutorial to learn to weave on the lucet.

Easter Fun on the Farm~Crochet

2010-03-22T16:18:00.002-05:00

You can never say that I dress my pets funny. Not after seeing this adorable picture.

http://getting-stitched-on-the-farm.blogspot.com/2010/02/shes-gone-crazy-too-many-lambs-and-too.html

Not my Farm, Not my lamb, not my crochet.

Nobody comes here just to crochet

2010-03-22T14:23:00.001-05:00

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/03/19/1322910/nobody-comes-here-just-to-crochet.html

It all started with one woman sitting in the corner with her crochet.

Crochet Stair Risers on the web

2010-03-02T15:14:00.002-06:00

Once Again...not my work. I was surfing the web and through my emails and ran across a post on one of my crochet groups sending me to this link.

http://ragingwool.blogspot.com/2010/03/life-in-old-house.html

Who would think to crochet stair risers?

I could be dangerous if I had free time.

Planning stages of my rain barrel

2010-03-01T12:36:00.004-06:00

I am so excited. Tamara and I have made plans to work on our rain barrels this weekend. So of course I am doing my research. I ran across this web link. http://www.squidoo.com/rain-barrel

Did you know A 55 gallon rain barrel will only hold 1/2 inch of rain water from a 160 square foot roof?

Why Use A Rain Barrel And Collect Rain Water?

1. A rain barrel will lower your water bills and save you money.

2. A rain barrel will help reduce the demand on the local water supply.

3. During the peak summer months a rain barrel can collect about 1,300 gallons of water, depending on where you live.

4. Rain barrels capture and keep water that can be used later. It is an efficient way to use a free resource.

5. Rain barrels help reduce erosion, storm water flow, pollution and flooding.

6. Rain water is naturally soft and oxygenated with more acidic than tap water. It doesn't have any chlorine, calcium or lime.

7. Watering plants, washing cars and doing household chores is an ideal way to use rain water.

8. Rain barrels aren't expensive.

9. They are easy to make and install.

Now, I am ready to sketch out some art for my barrel.

Cardboard Deer...

2010-02-25T12:44:00.001-06:00

http://www.perpetualkid.com/animal-friendly-cardboard-deer-bust.aspx

SHAUNA RICHARDSON / CROCHETDERMY

2010-02-25T12:38:00.002-06:00

http://www.shaunarichardson.com/words.php

Blog stalking again...

and I found this site.

Crochet-dermy.

Damn Adorable little creatures

2010-02-11T16:32:00.004-06:00

Not my work

http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=5739070256537435716

Words can not explain...

2010-02-11T16:30:00.000-06:00

See for yourself... http://www.flickr.com/photos/8595870@N04/3497329415/

Anniversary

2010-02-11T09:11:00.002-06:00

Today I celebrate 16 year of marriage to my husband Pete. I find it hard to believe that time has passed so quickly. 17 years ago, we met in a basement pool hall in Raytown, Missouri. The first time I met him he made this comment "I am going to marry that gal".

Pete, you are my best friend...and the longest job I have ever held. Our marriage has been work from the begining and we work well together. We have a wonderful and comfortable life together and have beautiful daughers to show for it.

My Crochet History

2010-02-11T08:58:00.004-06:00

(Annie's Attic Pattern) I would be dangerous if I had a little girl right now...I have come so far in my crochet abilities since Chelsie has been born.

I learned how to crochet about 15 years ago and started with one huge granny square blanket for my first project. My mother in law, Mary, finally taught me the patience to sit still and go for it.

Once upon a time, I only knew about granny squares, "H" hooks, and acrylic yarns. And reading patterns was out the window. Now I own at least 3 of each size hooks, I make up designs on my own, and I fart around with patterns. I can read basic stuff, but learning more and more each day thanks to my good friend Tamara the Crochet Queen.

Happy Birthday to my Mother in Law, Mary, tomorrow.
I love you.

What not to Crochet...

2010-02-10T16:25:00.000-06:00

Things that make you go hummm...

An email from my friend Mary

2010-02-10T13:17:00.007-06:00

My good friend Mary sent this email to me today... "It's Raining Cats and Dogs".

Dear Dana,
I want you to check out "Raining Cats and Dogs (...and lots of pix!)" on Craftster Community. To view it, please click this link: http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=337362.0 A comment has also been added regarding this topic: it's raining cast and dogs!

My wants~ for today

2010-02-09T09:31:00.004-06:00

First, I want to find purple bottles for my collection. I don't think I have one single purple glass... how YUMMY!

Second, I would like to find this pattern. I have been toying with the notion to start a colorful Granny Blanket...De'lish, Tasty!

My Kind of Camping...

2010-02-09T09:20:00.003-06:00

Blog surfing again today...thinking warm and happy thoughts on this very bitter and cold day. 9 degrees with a minus windchill.

Well wrap yourself in this. I would love to get my hands on a VW so I could have my very own camper. This is so fun looking. It brings me back to childhood also. My bedroom was the windshield area of one of these vw's. It rested on top of the school bus with an opening and a ladder to our sleeping quarters. A loosely strung curtain separated me from my parents in our VW loft atop the blue school bus.

Wonder if I could get hubby to buy in on this idea. One day we will get one and renovate it to be our very own little camper and we can take weekend trips. He will drive while I crochet. We will stop at funky little shops and park at beautiful rests. I will photograph our excursions and he will rest.

That will all happen, One Day.

(the pictures in this blog post were copied from this blog) enjoy!

http://casapinka.typepad.com/casapinka/2010/01/i-hope-everyone-has-a-lovely-weekend-im-going-to-be-working-on-a-few-projects-here-at-casapinka-for-starters-ill-be-croche.html

Quote for the day

2010-02-08T12:58:00.001-06:00

Do all the good you can;
By all the means you can;
In all the ways you can;
In all the places you can;
At all the times you can;
To all the people you can;
As long as ever you can. ~ John Wesley

Granny Walls

2010-02-02T15:15:00.001-06:00

*Not my work! But I ran across this picture in cyberland and of course had to share it. Maybe I will add a Granny Crochet room to my Bucket list. Now that sounds Warm and Snuggly!

Eye Candy for Dana

2010-01-28T10:33:00.005-06:00

I Cyber stalk others blogs and photo's most days. I love to see other's work and lovely's.
I ran across this Flicker Photo Stream today and I could look at these photo's all day long.

*These are not mine. It is just eye candy!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/elizabethcat/

Crochet bus

2010-01-05T11:06:00.002-06:00

I found this picture in another person's blog. I don't think she did it, but was posting it for the same reason I want to post it. It is creative. Not practical, but adorable.

The Dana of years past feels an appreciation for this artwork. I was raised by hippies and would not be giving credit due to my upbringing if I did not say that I LOVE IT!

Think that Pete's Chevy S10 Pick up would look cute like this?

Crochet this week

2009-11-19T14:57:00.000-06:00

Tuesday I crocheted 6 flower wash cloths from cotton in the post op room. Dad did not need the stent, but they did not realize that till they cathed him for the stent.

That night, I crocheted 4 soap sacks while watching (listening) GI Joe.

Wednesday night I crocheted 4 cell phone pouches and one flower broach.

Wonder what I will work on tonight?

Been quite for awhile

2009-11-19T11:07:00.001-06:00

I have been thinking a lot lately, but not posting. Now that I have had some time to think, I am ready to post again.

Just when things were sorted and we had settled in, our live was tossed around. Since October 18th, we no longer have the twins. They went back to live with their grandma and grandpa. They missed them and wanted them back. Who am I to fight with something I don’t understand, so I just went with it. I needed time to think about what had happened. I just did not understand how one day they wanted us to adopt and then a couple days later they took them back. It all boils down to drama. No that I have had some time, I do not miss the drama.

Pete and I have made many exceptions to our life in the past and have opened our home to friends and family many times. But now, we are ready to close that door. We will keep giving to those who need us, but we hope that we are not taken advantage of us again. Yes, taken advantage of. It was a learning experience. We proved that we are great parents, friends and a great couple. I am so proud of my husband and family. The stepped up and took life on. I could not have asked for more. We had fun while it lasted and do not regret anything.

I am sad that they are gone and feel a huge loss. They broke my heart. Mostly I am hurt. I think it opened my eyes. I wish to part ways. I could not possibly go thru that again. I feel no need to be a part of their lives now, I am scarred. They have a strong friend base and they do not really need us. We did what we could and it did not work out. I do not wish them ill, but rather wish them to find peace. They have a lot of sole searching to do.

So I have a pretty big house now. 3 bedrooms and an office/studio.

Oct 25th, 2009

2009-10-26T10:58:00.002-05:00

It has been 3 years since my mom's passing. Today I had a meeting in Raytown and the drive was beautiful. I was in awe from the gold's, coppers, rusts and reds. The storm moving in from the south, was a dark backdrop to the fall color. It enhanced the colors and made them pop. I was not sad, just lonely. Mom and I would hop in the truck and take weekend drives to see the changing colors when I was younger. This trip, I was the driver and the passenger seat was empty.

Alicia the Daisy Girl Scout

2009-09-22T22:14:00.005-05:00

Alicia and her Troop Leader: Traci

Grapes for her Try-it

Yummy Fruit Salad

Alicia in her new Smock

Boy Scout Rocket Launch

2009-09-22T22:08:00.010-05:00

Seth's Rocket Launch at Shawnee Mission Park September 19, 2009

Pete and Seth made rockets. But only one could be launched so Seth picked his.

They waited patiently...

Squinting in the sun...

For the moment he could launch his rocket.

He stepped up to the platform...

and 3...2...1! He launched his creation into the sky.

They all ran to catch the falling rocket...

but it landed in the field where Pete looked for it for over 15 minutes. It was lost to the tall grass.

Good thing they made two.

The End

Karate Kids

2009-09-22T22:05:00.005-05:00

The Karate Kids

Rock'em and Sock'em

The Tap Out Twins

They will knock your socks off!

Or just give you a friendly Grin!

1st Night at New Home

2009-09-22T22:02:00.005-05:00

Seth and Pete setting up the surround sound to the tv

Seth is showing off his new room

Dad looks "forced" to be there but he really did like to be in the picture...lol

And Pete is not much of a grinner either.

But this is our family crammed in one bed saying, Welcome to our new home.