Happy New Year!!!

Photo courtesy of: www.studenttabletpc.com

Happy New Year!

A Quiz...

The Recipe For Sara

3 parts Sensitivity 2 parts Humor 1 part Silliness Splash of Attractiveness Finish off with a little umbrella and straw

What's the Recipe for Your Personality?>

Or if you were calling me by my full name:

The Recipe For Sara Maria

3 parts Originality 2 parts Sass 1 part Fearlessness Splash of Difance Serve over ice

What's the Recipe for Your Personality?

End of the year review...

Each new year the list maker in me posts a New Year's list...so, thought I would review and see how I did...

Last January 1 - my list consisted of:

1) Knit from my Stash - Actually, I accomplished this. The only yarn I purchased was sock yarn which was allowed...I think I also bought some baby yarn for a baby gift since I didn't have anything appropriate. That was also okay to do.

2) UFOs/WIPs - Maybe we should laugh at that one...not only did I not finish any UFOs or WIPS - I created more! No kidding!!! My thinking is that as a knitter/quilter there will always be UFOs and WIPs sitting around somewhere.

3) Yarn Life Challenge - was to finish my red sweater for the Red Sweater KAL. I finished it. I hate it. And, I am going to rip it out this year and make something else. The main reason I don't like it is: the design in the pattern (which is beautiful) didn't show up well...it wasn't defined enough for me. Part of the problem I think is that the pattern calls for worsted weight yarn - but, the design in the pattern is delicate and should be done with a thinner yarn. Even with blocking - it just wasn't there for me.

b) Knit a pair of socks every two months...the intent was for me to have six pair of hand knit socks for myself. Well, I accomplished the pair every two months - only I ended up with one pair for moi...the rest were gifts.

4) Read a book a month. Can we say we excelled at this one! I managed to read 12,598 pages this year. Read 39 magazines cover to cover and 32 books which translates to almost three books a month.

5) Sunday Spa Days - well, let's just say that didn't happen at all. Part of it was I packed up most of the stuff to move ... then I moved ... and still unpacking...

6) Charity Knitting - I am pleased to say I did better than I thought I would. Knit some hats and mittens for the Headstart kids and as part of Love Reaches Out, and more mittens for Knit Unto Others...Plus I had never in my life knit any mittens before this year...and I found they are fun to do!!!

So there you go...didn't do too badly with my list in 2007. Wonder what my list will be like in 2008??? Guess we will see on January 1.

If I Had It To Do All Over Again...

I would want to have a job like this guy! This guy is the fascinating photographer, Art Wolfe. Recently, I found his wonderful series: Edge of the Earth on my local PBS station. And, I am hooked.

Can you imagine taking photos like these?...(I presume you checked the link to his site - right? Oh, you didn't yet. Go ahead. I'll wait while you drool over his photos.) The job of a lifetime!

Most of you know that since my blogging days started, my photography has become more and more important to me. So finding his program has given me a real boost...because he takes the time to explain some of his shots and why he takes them the way he does. And, I've been learning and listening to what he has to say.

Can you imagine taking a class like this? Oh, be still my heart!

And, he always wears these little knit hats...hmmm...maybe I could get a job as his hat knitting assistant?

In addition to catching this series on PBS...Happened to catch a program on the National Geographic Channel about one of their photographers. Wish I could remember the title of the program because it was worth seeing.

See, I told you there would be more about PBS television...Now aren't you glad I told you about this???

Home...Multipurpose...

Much thinking has gone on these past few months as I have tried to turn my apartment in a home! And, yes...it has taken me a while! (Since May 5th when I moved in) And, no...I'm not quite finished.

See my home has to be multipurpose...It must serve the following needs:

1) A place to live and feel safe and secure. My apartment does that - it is big enough that I don't feel crowded yet not so big that I feel overwhelmed. It is in a very safe and secure neighborhood...as a matter of fact it is in one of the nicest neighborhoods in Claremont...and my building is nice.

2) A place where I can be creative. Yes! It meets those requirements too. I have a nice area set up as my sewing center. It is in front of a huge window and I get plenty of natural light for daytime piecing and quilting. My knitting corner is right next to it. I have a wonderful recliner in which I can sit and watch tv and knit. I also share the recliner with a certain feline...namely Killian.


3) My kitchen is also a place where I can be creative and try not only new foods but new recipes. That is something that is important to me since food is one of my loves...and I am fortunate that at 61 years of age I still weigh around 130 pounds and rarely watch what I eat. New recipes are tried at least once a week...after all there has to be a reason to have all the cookbooks that are in my kitchen...and the reason is to use them.

4) My home must be my vacation retreat. Don't think I could ever be one of those people who has a vacation home - not that it has not crossed my mind. But the idea of having two places to be and have "stuff" just boggles my mind.

My vacation needs are simple...a place to relax. A place to read. A place to dream. A place to treat myself to long luxurious bathes and relaxing skin treatments. A place to get out and see new and exciting things. A place to learn about the world around me.

My home meets the needs to relax, read, dream.

My bath room can be turned into a spa anytime I wish and I have enough items to create a spa feeling.

My home is situated in an area that is close enough for me to visit four other states (Vermont (the closest), Massachussetts (less than 2 hours), Maine, and New York (both about 2 hours away) ). Therefore, I can see new places and learn about the world around me. This also meets the needs of getting out in the outdoors with so many places to hike, walk around, investigate, and even stay at for a day or two. Plus there are spas in the area when I can go and get a massage if I feel so inclined.

And, if getting in the car and driving for a little while doesn't meet that need there is the free library (don't you just love the way New England has free libraries as opposed to public libraries???) where all manner of books and videos can be found. Plus, don't forget Public Television which has great programs on it (more on that at a later date)...

Now there is only the fact that I have about ten boxes that need to be unpacked; an altar to set up; a closet to arrange; and then it will be done! So here we go!

Christmas...Part Two...

Ahhh, Mother is relaxing under the beautiful blanket which Tara sent her. She also received a beautiful sweater from Tara and a scarf which I knit for her. So, she is set for the winter. My sister, Mary, is sending some money and I think new shoes will be in order.

My dear friend, Ann, remember me with this box full of wonderful goodies...pecan brittle, a cute mouse ornament, lavender to grow, candy, notecards, a magnetic bookmark, some really good tea, and gorgeous yarn. The yarn is cotton and came with a pattern for me to try...it will be fun!

This would be a gorgeous scarf that my friend, Cheryl knit for me. It came along with some really interesting soap...Almond Biscotti...(Cocoa Butter and Olive Oil pamper while fresh coffee grounds gently scrub your skin)...the soap came from turtlecovesoaps.esty.com...The scarf from Cheryl's hands...(this is one of the first times that anyone has knit anything for me...)
My friend, Pat, sent me this adorable little kit to make an Altered Children ornament. It is going to be fun trying a new technique this coming year.
My daughter, Tara, sent me a beautiful blanket, too! And, a knitting book I have been wanting for a while...No Sheep For You. Looking forward to knitting most of the items in this book! (Especially the silk robe!!!)
There will be more to share with you - when we celebrate our Christmas with Scarlett in the next week or so...plus I also received a cute knit hat from one of my knitting/quilting friends and a handmade ornament which I still need to get a photo of...

All in all, it has been a very nice Christmas!!!!

Catching up day...

Today was the day to catch up...and breathe!

Christmas day was nice...talked to my daughter; opened my presents (photos tomorrow); and cooked a beautiful 10 pound ham and baked sweet potatoes.

Spent the evening sitting in my recliner knitting with Killian right next to me! I managed to get some awesome photos of him...(y0u'll see those soon, too.)

Today, ran to the grocery store to pick up bread and milk and got a couple of other little things - like a can of Planter's Mixed Nuts. And, tonight I am relaxing...after fixing a wonderful casserole of scalloped potatoes and ham...which will be reheated tomorrow night as we finished off the stuffed peppers tonight.

Five days until the end of the year...and am making lists and coming up with ideas of what I want for next year...you'll be among the first to know of all my plans!!!

Til tomorrow!!!!

Christmas...

We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Sara, Mom, and Killian

Christmas Eve...

Christmas Eve! I hope Santa brings you everything you are wishing for...but, most importantly, I hope he brings you love, joy, and peace.

About the computer - I am giving myself a few days to think on what to do. We only paid $200 for this one as we purchased it from a company who used to trade in their computers every few years. Think I've gotten my money's worth out of it...and if I have to buy another one - well, it should last me forever! The one before this one was an IBM Aptiva which I had from day one when they went on the market. Guess I tend to take care of my stuff.

Computers!!!...

I am taking my friend, Dave's advice...and talking about the computer problem from-you-know-where....thinking someone more computer savvy will have an idea...

It all started yesterday when I decided I wanted to write a post about my heritage and the differences between my sister and I. There is the photo that was published in a magazine in Florida that depicts here perfectly. So, I was going to scan the photo...when my printer told me that the USB was not connected.

Hmmm...it was printing and it would copy in black and white and color...so, how could the USB not be connected?

So, I uninstalled the program for the printer and re-installed it...same thing!

The guys at hp are telling me it is a RAM problem. I don't have enough RAM...I have 126 (whatever that is!)

True, my computer is about nine years old - and technology has come a long way...but, I just hate to think that the printer (an all-in-one) that I bought so that I could scan all the photos of my lifetime and make a disc for my daughter and sister isn't going to work. That was the only reason that I bought the thing.

Now I am wondering if the little printer for photos that came with my camera is going to work with the computer...

So, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!!!

Argh....

The day from you-know-where! I have spent a total of 4 hours on the phone with HP...and the problem is not going to be resolved...at least not until I decide that I want to buy a new computer - which is going to be "not any time soon". And, after all the work that I went through while on the phone with the hp guy...when I started my computer up - it told me that the software for the printer wasn't installed properly and it would need to be deleted!

See you tomorrow...barring I don't throw the computer through my plate glass window!

Answers for Colleen...

One of the blogs that I read all the time is Colleen's Loose Leaf Notes. In my comments about seeing the candidates the other day, she asked me:

"What was Peter Coyote doing there with them? You're not going to tell us what you asked him?"

It seems that Peter Coyote is part of the "Hollywood" contingent that is supporting John Edwards. He stated something to the effect that "they are hitting the campaign trail" to show their support. He was the one to introduce Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Brown.

Bonnie Raitt, then in turn, introduced Elizabeth and the daughter (whose name escapes me), and Elizabeth spoke for about five or ten minutes and introduced John Edwards.

What did I ask John Edwards? I believe my exact question was:

"What do you intend to do about the rights that are being denied to same-sex couples?" I mentioned a few: Emergency Room policies, Social Security death benefits, and Retirement pensions.

He stated that I had only touched the surface - that there are over 1,000 benefits that same-sex couples are denied! He wants that to end...and will work towards having "civil unions" be recognized in all 50 states, get rid of "Don't ask, don't tell", and DOMA.

There were a quite a few people in the audience that must have wanted answers to that question...because when I asked it - they applauded and really applauded at his answer.

Another Snowy Day...

Ahhh...it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! And, it has been for the last two weeks. I don't think we have to worry about having a White Christmas at all.

I am taking the next few weeks until January 7th off from the world...I still plan to blog and keep up on reading blogs - but, I'm not going out and about to stores or anything like that. Only for things like milk and bread and those are quick trips.

Plans are to relax, finish up the unpacking, get my closet organized, get my quilting area ready to rock and roll, make some decisions, do some research on a couple of classes I am interested in, and just be!

Am fixing one of my favorite comfort foods for supper tonight - Italian Sausage and Yellow Rice served with Black Beans and a side of baked sweet plantains. So, I'm off to cook!!!

Meeting the Candidates...

So, this was the candidate...John Edwards...and the crowds were there for sure yesterday. Sometimes you wonder if it was the entertainment that brought them out or the person. But either way, it was a way to listen to what they have to say. He had great charisma! And, some interesting things to say! He even answered my question during the question and answer time.

His wife, Elizabeth, introduced him...and it was interesting to hear her talk about John Edwards, her husband and person...not the candidate!

The family sits and listens to him speak along with Peter Coyote.

This year has been interesting. Never having lived in a state where so many candidates stomp for votes makes the elections so much more alive...more exciting...and gives me a chance to be a much more informed voter! That and reading all the books that have been written by or about five of the top contenders (Clinton, Obama, Edwards, Romney, McCain) should give me a good idea of where my vote will go come January 8th.

Reminiscent of the 60s...70s...

Today was very reminiscent of the 60s and 70s - those days when we challenged the government, sang protest songs, and proclaimed our right to be Americans...

Only today, we weren't challenging the government - but rather learning about a candidate that is running for President of our great nation! And, he brought some really heavy duty players with him...

Peter Coyote - Hollywood actor was first to appear on stage and introduce two of the best of the best singers around...
Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Browne...
I admit it - I have been wild about Jackson Browne from day one - and you know - he hasn't changed much...gotten a little older than the last time I saw him in person - but, then I'm no spring chicken myself!
The music was great - even though the concert was short - but, they were here in support of John Edwards...and they did what they were supposed to do - bring out a good crowd - to learn about what John Edwards stands for.
Bonnie Raitt is simply outstanding...and I'd forgotten how much I like her. It was the first time I ever saw her live...and I wasn't disappointed. The Lebanon Opera House was packed to the max - don't think there was an empty seat - and it's not a small place...
It was wonderful! It was fun! It made you feel alive! It made you feel like you were a young person learning about what our government was about and what plans John Edwards had to bring his vision of America to the public.

More tomorrow...

Preparing for 2008...

Each year I try to do a Reading Challenge - so, this year this is the choice...You can find out more about it here.

One only has to read five romance novels...and I am choosing to read some category romance. I used to read a lot of category romances but in the last few years I haven't read very many. Good time to get back to them. My choices are:

1) Priscilla Hires a Husband by Loree Lough - Heartsong Presents

2) Challenge of a Lifetime - Barbara Kaye - Harlequin Superromance #433

3) Chance of a Lifetime - Barbara Kaye - Harlequin Superromance #449

4) Warrior Without Rules - Nancy Gideon - Silhouette Intimate Moments #1382

5) Homeward Bound - Marin Thomas - Harlequin American Romance

Please Welcome...Griffin...

Please welcome my new grandson...Griffin. He is an Australian Shepherd/Sharpei Mix. My daughter, Tara, adopted him yesterday. Isn't he adorable???


Edited by Sara: If he looks a little sad, it could be that he is missing his eight brothers and sisters. Yep, there were nine of them...how precious!

Vermont Barn...

Today, I am wishing for a little sunshine...as it is gray and sort of gloomy. Although earlier today, there was a little sun. So, I searched some of my photos to show you a little sunshine in my area.

Barns...what is it about barns? This barn is in Vermont on the road to the apple orchard. Actually, it is right across the street from the Church that I blogged about here.

Loved the fact that the barn was framed by the huge trees on the church property. Just another pretty barn...

Prepared...

A Nor'easter is scheduled starting tomorrow...so, today I spent time getting prepared. They are saying we will get about a foot of snow! So, this afternoon, I went and got my hair cut (no, it wasn't a necessity - I just wanted to look cute for the holidays!) picked up mother's medicine at the pharmacy, and grocery shopping.

Bought the usual bread, milk, and eggs - then thought about it and picked up some lunch meat and snacks - just, in case, the power went out. I really didn't want to eat tuna for three meals a day!

So, we are prepared...the car is parked in the parking lot and that's where it will stay until Monday...

Let it Snow...

Hey, the weatherman was right! Two out of three ain't bad...(oh, sorry that's an old Meatloaf line).

He said it would start snowing around 1ish...and son-of-a-gun if it didn't. I had just let the dogs out and was headed to the library to pick up a book I had on reserve when the little flakes started. It didn't seem very hectic - so, I thought I would treat myself to lunch at the new Chinese restaurant...and it was so good.

By the time I finished lunch and walked back outside my little car was covered in the white fluffy stuff...and it was coming down at a pretty good clip. Now, I've only actually driven twice when the white stuff was falling down out of the sky...all the other times the roads have been scraped, salted, sanded and whatevered...and there is nothing falling from the sky.

But. I. Did. It. Yes! Got home safely...and up to my apartment...in time for the phone call saying they would be bringing mother home early.

So, we are safely tucked inside with a good book to read...and full tummies. This is supposed to blow over by 10 pm tonight - we will see...

Honored...

Sheila Ann has honored me by posting and linking some of my snow photos over at Beauty on the web blog! I feel so honored. Thank you, Sheila Ann!

Do check out this blog...it's like finding some of the beauty available without having to search the entire web!

Finding myself knitting on the socks, clearing off my desk, and hanging out watching movies and tv. The ice storm we were supposed to get seemed to avoid us...and all we got was a tad bit of icy patches - like the entire walkway from the apartment building to the road. So, Mom didn't go to her day out program today either. But, the sun has come out and melted all the icy patches...and it is beautiful outside.

Bumper Sticker of the Day...

Don't Steal!

The Government Hates Competition.

Just had to share that one with you!!!

Knit Unto Others Mittens...

There they are...two pair of mittens knit in two weeks...these are going to the Soaring Eagles Project as part of my contribution for Knit Unto Others. I really enjoyed it making these little mittens this year.

I hope they help keep some sweet child's hands warm during the winter months.

Can We Say Snow?...

We are expecting another snow storm just like last week-end. Except that maybe it will not be any where as much snow...more slick stuff than the fluffy stuff I like.

Tonight is a busy night - knitting on socks - have two pair to finish...and relaxing. I need it...and I'm taking the time...Sat down a little while ago and fell asleep in the chair! Go figure...

So, we'll see how fast those knitting needls fly tonight!

Hve a good night and I'll see you tomorrow...

Mom's Makin' Lists...

Killian here - again...

Mom is doing fine. She's not sick or anything...but, today she took a look at her desk and had a "hissy" fit. (And, you thought cats were the only ones who hissed - hmmm.) So, she's cleaning it up, paying bills, making lists of things to do...and things she wants to do down the road...and it just goes on!

She told me she has all these little pieces of paper floating around that have places she wants to visit - either on the web or in person, recipes, knitting patterns, and just stuff. And, she just needs to organize. Plus she has a bit of knitting to do in the next 15 days...so, I'm sure tomorrow is movie day.

Did I tell you, I love movie day? Mom sits and knits...and I get to lay down beside her against her leg and keep her warm. That's my job.

Me, I'm planning on resting here on the sofa...while she makes the place presentable! You don't want to be in her way when she cleans! I got a feeling it's going to be a long evening...

Christmas is in the Air...or Aire...

Ahhhh...Christmas is in the air. The cd player now holds all 16 Christmas and or holiday cds that I own! And, I am actually in the process of playing them. Unusual for me...

I have had a deep struggle this year about the holidays. It was at this time last year that my partner of eleven years and I decided that our life together would cease to be as we knew it. It was a difficult Christmas and New Year.

This year I have chosen to not let the Season overwhelm me - but to rather go with what I am feeling comfortable with. I enjoy sitting down and addressing cards to my family and friends - with some it is the only time that we hear from each other.

My daughter is grown and is living in Arizona building her own Christmas traditions while I hope embracing some of the ones she grew up with. Her Christmas gifts this year have been well chosen to reflect who she has become - a beautiful young woman!

I am refusing to allow the commericalism of the holiday to intrude into my life and have chosen not to become involved in the "I have to get something for this person or that person" - instead I am chosing to celebrate each of my friends throughout the coming year when I have the time to make, create, or buy gifts that truly reflect that person and my friendship with them. (Even though I tried to do that at the holidays each year - it somehow has never felt complete for me - does that make any sense?)

Also, decorations will be sparse in my home this year. I still don't have my apartment the way that I want it - (as you know - you've only seen the kitchen and dining area - because that is all that I am happy with)...and the thought of trying to get a tree in here and figuring out where it will go is just too overwhelming. Once I see how my floor plan shakes out - then next year I will be more ready to explore my decorating abilities (of which there are damn few!).

So let the Season begin...I am all about enjoying family, friends, music, television shows, movies, and the great outdoors this holiday season. I hope you will enjoy the same.

And, speaking of the great outdoors...

These photos of a pretty little Christmas tree farm on Route 5 in Vermont were taken yesterday. Just a few minutes after I took the photos on Half Mile Road. It was gorgeous! Just enough snow to sprinkle white stuff on the trees. Vermont did not seem to get as much snow this week as we did just five miles away in New Hampshire. Go figure!

There is something to be said for that red barn sitting amidst a grove of Christmas trees surrounded by gorgeous white fluffy snow. Ahhhhh....

Half Mile...Revisited...

My favorite road...again! Half Mile Road dressed in winter.

There is nothing to say other than this road is what I think of when I think New England winters. The thought of a horse drawn sleigh taking a group to a holiday party just comes alive on this road.

The trees block the sunlight except for little patches of sunlight that drift through...
Yet, today the sky was clear blue and the sun was shining beautifully...but, Half Mile Road kept the mystery and beauty of the season.
These photos were taken from approximately the same spot as the other ones that are on this blog.

Exhausted...Yep, I Am...

Am feeling totally sleep-deprived! Last night I hit the bed about 11:00 p.m....awoke at 1:22 a.m., 3:30 a.m., 4:42 a.m., and then the alarm went off at 6 a.m. Can't decide what the problem is - but, I think I've got it figured out a bit...

I'm the only one in the house other than mother...and now I'm not sleeping as soundly because I think I tend to listen for her getting up in the night. When Scarlett and I lived together - there were three sets of ears listening for mother...me, Scarlett, and Tammy (who lived in the basement) - who could hear her walking across the floor during the night. Everyone knew the correct sounds to listen for and would only wake up if the sounds were different...

Seems I haven't figured those sounds out yet...hope it doesn't take too much longer! It would be nice to sleep through the night!

Wrapping up November...

Knitting took a front seat in November with having to finish up the hats and mittens for Headstart and getting them delivered. Seems that I spent most of my time at my two knitting groups - the Monday one from 9-Noon and the Friday one from 1-3. Then the last couple of weeks I even added a Wednesday 1-3 group.

Never made it to any of my quilt guild meetings. Tammy, our friend that used to live with us, is still my only person to sit for mother - but, it hasn't been working out too well as she keeps getting called into work at the last minute! Today, I found another person and I will be interviewing them next week. I just need my time at quilt guild...I miss my friends there a lot.

Reading got lost somewhere in November! I only managed to read one book - highly unusual for me. But, at least it was a book I really enjoyed: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood. I've put my poetry reading on hold until the beginning of the year...but plan to finish that huge book of poems.

Additionally, the weeks of November 19th - 30th was devoted to Knit Unto Others. Even being a slow knitter, I managed to finish up two adorable pair of mittens. They will be going to Soaring Eagles Project .

Flannel sheets and blankets are now on the bed...and we are getting it together for winter in New Hampshire. And, I plan to enjoy it this year...the beauty, the cold, the snow, and all the feelings and joys of the season.

Even Killian seems to have gotten into the winter spirit!

Snow...December 3...

Snow! Did someone say snow? Oh, I love snow...I love the way the world looks covered in snow...pure, clean, ethereal! Guess I haven't been a New Englander long enough to hate snow! And, how does one hate something so gorgeous!

This was the view from outside the back door of my apartment building. Look at how the snow just hovers on the branches of those trees.
How about this close up?
Kind of takes your breath away - and I know these were taken in color - but, the day has been so gray and so much snow falling that the photos look almost black and white.
The station wagon directly behind that little tree is my car. You will note there is a lot of snow on top of it! And, it is the fun stuff - fluffy!!! When I had to go move my car from one parking lot to the other so they could plow - the snow was so soft and fluffy...
The sun just came out ... and now the snow is glistening! Have a great day!

The Media...The Use and Abuse...

As I grew up the news came into my home via a radio, newspaper, magazine, or newsreels at the movie theater. Later on we were able to afford to buy a television set. It was small and black and white. The news when we got it was not this instantaneous gratifacation type thing.

A few days ago in Rochester, New Hampshire someone took hostages at the Clinton campaign office. I will be the first to admit that this was a horrendous thing to happen to anyone. And, I truly felt sorry for the people in the situation and wished them no harm.

From the moment it became knowledge, the local television station was on the scene! This was maybe 1:30 in the afternoon...from that time on...most channels were glued to this situation. Now I don't know about you but there was nothing interesting about

1) looking at a patrol car which was blocking a street;
2) looking down an empty street;
3) watching microphones being set up for someone to tell us what is going on.

And, no matter what local or news channel you tuned to - it was the same scene. And this, in my humble opinion, mockery of covering the new continued for five hours! (I was not glued to the tv, in case, you are wondering...but, I was channel surfing a lot during that time looking for something else to watch including the evening news!)

Leland Whatever-the-f***-his-last-name-is got just what he wanted! Hell, he even told his son "to watch the news".

Duh...

Are we as journalists (yes, I can call myself that as I've made my living writing for newspapers, magazines, and even books) so hard up for newsworthy events that we have to give these idiots what they want? How long are we going to allow people like that to use and abuse not only the media but the people who wish to hear the news in a quick concise evening broadcast?

I always knew there was a reason that I never wanted to write "hard news" and why I always wrote the fluff pieces...things that were interesting - but didn't have that "life and death" urgency or need to be published "right now".

I didn't want to be one of the ones used and abused by the Leland Whatever-the-f***-his-last-name-is of the world.

Knitting Frenzy!!!...

The movies were rented from the library yesterday. (Wild Hogs, Babel, Step Up, and Casino Royale 007)

Leftovers are in the refrig for dinner tomorrow including whatever might be leftover from supper today.

The recliner is equiped with a warm snuggly comforter.

The two mitten sets for Knit Unto Others are ready to be sewn together.

The yarn is ready to begin two pair of socks.

And, the weather is supposed to cooperate - and snow!

What more does one need for a Christmas knitting frenzy!