Monday, October 26, 2009

I Caved.......

....Yes, dear friends, I caved!  I caved and banished Ann to the corner.  I'm not proud of it and you can all flog me with wet floss if you wish (no throwing of needles though, please), but I caved.  Here she is when I left her yesterday morning:



I know, I know.  So close to finishing up that next section.  But putting in that lettering (which I normally find kind of mindless), was making my entire body itch, making me jump repeatedly out of my chair and circle the house mumbling to myself, and reaching for anything that was bad for me (like Fritos dipped in chocolate - ymmmmm - kind of sounds like I was PMSing, doesn't it?  And I was doing that at 7a.m. Sunday morning).  I finally knew when I was beat, and put her aside.  That's not to say that she won't be resurrected in a week or so, but for the time being she can sulk in a corner.  DS is still on his early to school in the morning routine, so that may be part of it.  When you only get about 20 stitches in at a pass, it becomes exasperating on such a large piece.

Speaking of which, this morning you would have found me in the kitchen at 4:45 a.m. making pancake batter for the masses at DS' school.  October 23 is Mole Day (and I'm probably not spelling that right).  It has to do with some equation that the AP Chem class has (10 to the 23rd power or something - I never took AP Chem, so I'm clueless and even though he tried to explain it to me, I was still half asleep).  So to celebrate Mole Day, they cook pancakes for the 400 kids in the Chemistry classes.  Last Thursday was the real Mole Day, but due to the teacher being out, it was held today.  And quess who was in charge - yes siree Bob, my son.  But quess who has to get the starter batches of pancake mix ready.  Yes, that would be Moi!  So you see why, at 9:00 at night when I finally land in my stitching chair, only 20 stitches get made!

So, what is a girl to do, but find something else - something that she can see light at the end of the tunnel even if there are only 20 stitches in a night.  It had to be in the stash pile - my goal is to clear up stash - no market orders that I was just itching to get to.  So I picked up this.  It's been in my stash for eons:

Mystery Sampler
35 count Parchment
DMC threads

Anyone know what it is?  Maybe I should make a guessing game out of it.  Maybe there will be a prize if someone guesses what sampler it is.  I'm curious to see if someone can identify it.  And, I have to make an admission, that this may not be the only new start I have.  I'm itching to fill every scroll rod that I have in this house with projects.  I feel like a man that's been in the desert.......I need new projects.......I need inspiration ......I need........perhaps I need some help!  LOL

So, anyway, I'm not proud of myself, but I just had to do something else.  I think that after spending two whole months and two days on Ann, I really made a good attempt, don't you think?  And she hasn't been banished to the stitching graveyard upstairs, just behind my chair.  I hear her whine sometimes, but I tell her this:

Yeah, that's right, "Don't make me get the flying monkeys".  I found this sign at a prim shop I went into recently and had to have it for my craft room.  The Wizard of Oz is just about my favorite movie (well, so is Gone With the Wind) and when my kids were little and had seen it for the first time, those monkey's scared the bejesus out of them.  So whenever they were bad I would tell them, "Don't make me get the flying monkeys".  After a few times of me saying that, they would laugh, but it did get them a couple of times (I know, mean mommy).   Even my husband laughed when he saw the sign in my room, just because it's been one of those sayings he's heard me say numerous times throughout our marriage (he's been on the receiving end of that saying, too!  LOL).

While I was going through my itching process with Ann and trying not to start another project, I did manage to get some knitting done this week:


After about four attempts of trying to remember how to do this pattern it finally clicked (You Tube was a huge help).  Now I've only done this pattern I don't know how many times, but it just didn't click.  Fortunately, while I was waiting for my ride to get new rubber (van getting new tires), I made some good progress.  This will look mucho better after it's blocked.

The same day that I found the flying monkeys sign, I happened across another store down the way that had a lot of furniture in it.  Two things I'm trying to find for my craft room are a bookcase, and a bar stool, but it can't be as high as a bar stool.  Well, the store had them, but in sets of four - they didn't want to sell just one, but the whole set.  I started to leave and the owner said, "Wait, I might have what you're looking for in the back and I can sell you one.  It's nicked on the leg, but maybe it will work".  Well, lo and behold, the most perfect chair was there:



It was exactly what I was looking (except for the color which is easily remedied - I wanted red).  And yes, there is a nick, but once painted it will be great!  I was so happy because it's almost an exact match, but taller, to my sewing chair!  SCORE!!!


I also had the misguided notion that I would possibly get some quilting done this week.  I have felt like a real slacker because I haven't done anything Halloweeny.  Well, I open a box (yes, I'm still unpacking things for my room) and what do I find?  This older Thimbleberries pattern and the fabric is all cut out!!  I was doing a happy dance for about ten minutes.  Then the phone rang, then I was off like a shot somewhere, and nothing was sewn.  Well, there is still Thanksgiving to get through, so maybe there is hope for this quilt.


Well, that's about it for me this week.  The pic above was taken from my side yard.  The colors have been so pretty around here (at least when the sun has been out).  But I think we're just about hitting peak.  Seems like a good time to make that final fall cider and donuts scenic tour this week and see what new goodies I can find.

Thanks for all the wonderful comments you leave.  I love receiving them!  Make a lot of X's.  And have a great week.

41 comments:

Begoña said...

me encanta lo que haces, me gusta muchísimo el Sampler que tienes en el bastidor, es bárbaro.
Bss y felicidades

Patricia Lessell said...

I'm sorry you banished Ann to the corner but I can understand, I think, and I do hope she isn't sulking too much. I HATE sulking and whining! I love what you have started on though, I have to admit.

Your trees are gorgeos colors. Just like ours NOT! My lawn is covered in leaves and they are all BROWN!!! Now as a color I like brown but not a lawn covered in brown. Am I whinging? Yessiree Bobsky I am. Never mid I've stopped now. Going to have my supper.

Have a great week.

Love

Patti xxx

Debs said...

Wow, you have been a busy girl! Lovely pattern you're knitting. I used to be able to knit and read a book at the same time, but that was waaaayyyy back in High school! Now I can barely do simple knit! I think "ann" will understand you leaving her in a corner, as long as its not for toooooo long.
hugs
Debs

Love to Stitch said...

You have done so much on ANN in the last 2 months it is incredible-- but I know how you feel on working on another project. You have to be proud of yourself for sticking with her so long!!! Beautiful knitting! Love the colors. I think I am coming by you for breakfast this week-- PANCAKES!! YUM!! PS, I have no idea on your new mystery sampler, but I can tell already it is gonna be GORGEOUS!

mainely stitching said...

Loved your post! Your new chair is great, as is your new start (though I have no guesses as to what it is). I'm laughing at the pancake story because I can SO see myself in this spot in a few years! LOL!

Berit said...

What a wonderful post! Your blogs always leave me drooling. I just love that prim sign--lately I've been so into prim: maybe it's the fall season? Something about primitive stuff just says "Autumn" to me. :P

Ann will be fine with a time-out; I love your new start, though I have no idea what it might be.

For my part, I actually blogged! Really, I did! Stop by and check it out if your fancy is so inclined--it has a pretty WIP, and some fall foliage, too. (though I don't think it can rival you side yard!)

Loraine said...

You are so very funny! I love reading your blog. I just took a break for lunch, and was so happy to see you had posted!
I'm sorry you caved on Ann as well, but honestly I admire you for your effort! I was laughing my head off over your statement about, "needing inspiration, and every scroll rod filled". I feel so much like that myself. You will get back to Ann soon. I have faith in you!

I have no idea what your new WIP is, but it's lovely and I can't wait to see more of it done.
Are you secretly working on Shores? I feel so guilty that I haven't touched it since July or August. I'm going on vacation in two weeks, and maybe I'll pack it. Hopefully I'll get inspired to work on it again.
Love your knitting project. I have no idea how to knit. I think it's because my dear Grandma tried to teach me how to crochet, and I just couldn't get my fingers to hold the thread right. I've decided I'm better at other hobbies, but maybe someday....
I love, love, love your "monkey" sign! How perfect of a saying. I'm going to have to add that to my "threats". My DD loves Wizard of Oz. I'm thinking of making a Dorthy costume for the AG doll. So cute!
Love your Fall leaves. Just gorgeous.
Tell your son I am so impressed with his AP classes and studious nature. That is wonderful that he is working on college credits now. He'll have that college degree in no time. Sorry you got stuck with the 400 pancakes! Yikes. What Mom's won't do for their kids!
Take care dear. My e-mail is Hiddenheart@kellerits.com. You don't have to thank me for the needle case! For heavens sake, I'm thanking you for the patterns, and friendship!
Have a wonderful week!

Ranae said...

So sorry to hear Ann, maybe a break is well deserved and she will come to her senses, lol.
Maybe the sampler is a Workbasket design??
The knitting is a gorgeous design as well as color.
The trees are so pretty.
Nice chair find.

valerie said...

Whoa Deb! You are doing A LOT. Stitching, knitting, quilting, shopping, cooking...whew! I'm tired just thinking about it!

It's ok to set aside Ann for a little bit. I know you'll get back to her soon enough.

Love the fall colors...and right in your backyard! We don't see colors like that here.

BeckySC said...

Hey Deb :)
I think Ann may just need a break...I bet when you pull her out again you will have smokin' needles :)
What wonderful pics you shared with us today :) You take GREAT photos :)
Have a most lovely evening :)

Catherine said...

LOL! Those flying monkeys still scare me!

Alice said...

A girl can only take so much and then has to move on...a bit. A break from Ann will be good for you. I don't have a clue about your new sampler's identity but it looks pretty already. I am also feeling PMSy and want to start new things all the time. What a super mom to get up so early making pancake mixes. Sure hope DS appreciates it.
Nice sign and some neat knitting there. I do love your blue Picea's. I also have two bright red liquidamber's in our garden, still young, but already looking splendid. The chair looks perfect for what you need it. Nothing like finding what you like and need.
Alice

Margaret said...

I don't think you should feel guilty about putting Ann down for a while. She's a biggie and I can see how it could get monotonous after a while. I love your new start but have no clue what it is. :D And ah yes, the lovely mole. Isn't that how it's spelled? I took all that chemistry sh**. :D Bleagh! lol! You're a good mom! Love your sign and chair/stool! And your knitting -- that looks hard to knit! I hope you manage to get some quilting done too. Like I want to but never do. :D

Jennifer Ann Fox said...

Oh, Ann will be ok until later.......but she is looking soooooo good!!!! ;0

The trees are so beautiful there! I love this time of year.

I'm getting the itch to do all Christmas stuff now and I don't even think anyone would see a tree if I put one up except me and my husband......but anyway, I'm getting startitis too.

Hey, the Sampler Girl had a 5.00 dollar sale only on Friday, so I got about 8 patterns! I have to stop or get committed one or the other....LOL

JEnnifer

Jennifer

Laurie in Iowa said...

Don't beat yourself up for putting Ann aside. You stuck with her for over 2 months... which is longer than I've ever stuck with the same sampler.
Love that beautiful red tree.. how pretty.

Nancy M said...

You deserve a break from Ann.....she will be that much better when you get back to her. My problem is that all my large scrolls are taken right now!! I have plenty of free small ones, but can't think of any smalls crying out to me. Teenagers will keep you hopping for awhile....it does it better!

Melissa said...

Oh that's funny - I'll have to remember that one "Don't make me get out the flying monkeys!"

Well, as always you are busy! I don't what to comment on! OK, I don't know what the mystery sampler is but it looks very nice so far!

Gabi said...

Awww....poor Ann (grin) Somehow I know that feeling when you hit a part that you don't like to do. A break is then the best thing ever.
Your sampler looks promising and not the slightest clue what it is.
Love your knitting too. And right you are with blocking. I found blocking out not long ago, and boy what a difference that makes. I still wonder under what rock I was living...lol.

Lois said...

Don't be too hard on yourself you can always come back to Ann another day feeling much more in the mood to stitch on her. I've no idea what your mystery sampler is but what you've stitched already looks great! Pancakes at that time in the morning?! My goodness, I'd have matchsticks in my eyes trying to keep awake!!! Your trees are gorgeous! I love the colours at this time of year.

Unknown said...

Are you up for the Mom Of The Year award? You amaze me at all the things you do. Fixing pancakes for 400 hungry, growing teenagers is definitely a feat. Did anyone count how many pancakes were actually made? Your son must attend a large school. And, how smart he is to be taking AP classes. Science was my worst subject - give me math anyday.

I know what your new project is, it is an A&E pattern :-)

You are too funny over the whole Ann drama. You have to be very proud of the length of time you stuck with her and how much you accomplished! She is truly a labor of love.

What a great bargain on your new chair - it'll look great in red - or course, anything looks good in red.

Speaking of red, your trees are spectacular. Fall is such a beautiful time of year - we are surrounded by mountains and they are just aglow with oranges, reds, and yellows. Maybe I can convince my husband to take a ride on the parkway this weekend and just enjoy the sites.

I hope you have a good week and I look forward to seeing more of your new mystery project.

Btw, how's that new puppy of yours doing?

Siobhán said...

Good for you on the new start! I know you wanted to stick with Ann, but you did a LOT on her, and you can still pick her up and work on her as well as your other WIPs. This way you aren't frustrated. At least, it works for me that way! ;)

Love the new start on the knitting, too! I am in awe of your prowess at the needle arts, gf.

Wow, good for you on the stool--it sounds like a great find. Now we need to see pics of your room all done up!

Sharlotte said...

Your post is so great Deb, I don't know which is my favorite part! I do so love The Wizard of Oz too! I have to say I love that sign! I need one too! Don't have a guess on the mystery sampler but looks great so far!

Brigitte said...

Well, sometimes our BAPs need a little time out. And we need a new project sometimes, lol. No idea, what the mystery sampler is and by who it is but it's looking good.
Hopefully you can get some more sleep during the nights by now so that you can get more than 20 stitches in, lol.

Patricia Lessell said...

P.S. I love the knitting - it looks like patchwork - you are just so clever!
Love
Patti xxx

woolwoman said...

Awesome start on the entrelac scarf Deb - I love that Noro colorway of course almost all their colorways are great.

looks like a great resting spot on Ann - you've made wonderful progress in 2 mos - hard to believe how much you've done - it looks super

your fall foliage is so gorgeous - I wish we had color - it's still pretty hot here in the 80's

I know this is not correct but it looks a little similiar to that Long Dog Mystery sampler that was in Gift of Stitches several years ago. Anyway - another beauty - can't wait to see more. Enjoy! Mel

Laural said...

It's beautiful but it's also one of the biggest patterns in the history of the world so I don't blame you.

Entrelac (sp?)! I've never done it but I love how it looks. Oh, and I love Noro too. I've been feeling bad about neglecting my knitting and quilting too. I want to do the square tree skirt that crazymomquilts designed and has on her blog.

Ivory Spring said...

Debbie - great post! Don't feel bad at all for switching projects - sometimes we just need to get away to refresh a bit! ;)

Vanessa said...

I am new to this blog, and I wondered if anyone can tell me about Ann. It looks like a very interesting piece, and I would love some more information about it.

Michelle said...

Sorry to hear about Ann, but I often only get 20 minutes or so at a time to stitch, so I totally understand where you're coming from. You want something easy!! And pretty!! I love Wizard of Oz too - I need a sign like that! And your framing from the last post is gorgeous...wow!!

Unknown said...

Me again. I have been fiddling with that A&E List - is your new mystery design Adam Alone by Sheepish Design?

Cindy F. said...

Wow Deb! I need some of your crafty mojo right now!! Ann is just amazing and I like your new start...it looks familiar, but...I don't know the design right off.
Can't wait to see more of both...and your knitting!

Cindy F. said...

oh....and that chair is gorgeous!!!

Carmen said...

sometimes is a good idea put aside works , and make another. Is like detoxifying action, in spanish we say to: "desengrasar", the aprox. translate is: to degreasing, sound weird in another lenguage.
The new chair is pretty.

Deb said...

Hi, Deb! I know that psycho PMSish feeling well regarding "Ann," I get it sometimes with BAPs. I just want to throw up, I walk around with restless legs and I have to shake my hands! :P The only hope is to do just as you did and put the victimizing stitching thingie aside. Hide it, don't look at it, and go on with another more peaceful and obliging piece! :]
Your entry was just packed full of fun things to see and read about. My kids used to fear those monkeys like the dickens! I bought a big papermache' monkey candlesticks holder when they were all in college...they still call it the "Scary Monkey." It's a family fun treasure like your sign and it sits high ontop of one of my bookcases over-looking the family room sofa!! LOL

MyLifesAStitch said...

Deb, your progress on Ann is impressive! And I say - Far better to move on to something else for a while than allow one frustrating project to potentially steal your mojo entirely! :) Still no pic of your craft room? I'm waiting on tenterhooks. Thanks so much for your comment today - You have always been one of the most faithful commenters on my blog, and I've mised you my dear! TTFN

Angela said...

Love your monkeys quote.

Your trees are looking great.

Sounds like you have a serious case of 'startitis'.

Littlebit said...

Oh my goodness..and to think I whined about Village?!? That sampler would put me underground! lol! It's a beautiful piece..the chair is perfect, and the red will make it even more so.

Isabelle said...

Debbie, I love what are you stitching :this new project has gorgeous colors .
Very nice knitting, too:-)
Happy stitching and knitting !
Have a great day !
Isabelle

Kathy said...

As someone who recently caved, I completely understand. I'm sure you will get back to Ann soon.
Love the chair you found. You have such good luck finding treasures.

Kellie said...

Hi Deb,
I am a little slow reading blogs this week. Don't feel guilty about Ann. It's a hobby. It is supposed to make us happy. There are no rules. I say if you want to start something new, go for it! Fill every scroll rod! :) LOL! However, that mystery sampler is gorgeous, and I am curious as to what it is. I don't have a guess, but I am looking forward to seeing you post the name. Love the stool!! That is going to look awesome painted red. :) That is a lot of pancakes. But I bet the kids love that!
Hope you have a great weekend!

Karen said...

I found your post very humorous today. I so admire your stitching abilities.
I can't imagine being up at 4:45 am making pancake batter!