21 November 2007

Holiday Time, Again!

Well - lots to catch up on since I last posted....

Went to Seattle for a glorious 2-week vacation. Something that I can rarely do is take that much time off all at once. I hung out with my friend Brenda where we went to Pike Place Market. Got to see the fish stand where they throw each other the merchandise that people are purchasing. What a hoot to see flying fish and bagged crustations! One of us curious patrons received a stuffed fish thrown at him in the crowd. The guy was next to me so I almost got hit with a stuffed flying fish. That was funny to watch. On another table of ice and fish products, they had a monk fish split from the belly and laying over the ice hung by a rope at the tail. Little kids would come by and see how ugly the fish is then one of guys tugs on the rope and the kids scream!

Then I proceeded to peruse through the artists booths in the market and came across a woman who sells shawls that look like fishnet with outrageous multi-colord felted fringe material. Piece of shits on a hanger for $90! When I first went up to the table, I blurted out "I can do that!" Meaning, I can knit. The woman behind the table said, " That is rude to say something like that to the artist". I ignored her and continued to realize how much they were pieces of shit on the hangers. She then continued, "I don't appreciated you there in front of my table!". I finally said, "Sorry for passing by!" Her reaction was a nod as though she won a battle somehow. What the fuck! Brenda thought she was outright rude for her to make those 2 comments when I was merely trying to express the fact that I share the same capability of the craft. Such insecurities people have; I noticed that absolutely nobody was walking by her pieces of shit on the hangers anwyay. Now my mantra is "I can do that!"

On 11/9, I hosted a farewell dinner for Jessica Taft who has now moved up to Anchorage, AL. Had Bulgogi meatloaf and various Korean vegetables with red pepper paste. I also uncorked my favorite red table wine from Foxens. Us girls had a great time with Julie's inventive card game and of course knitting together. Good luck Jessica!


The next day I went to an all women's retreat in Ojai with Nancie, Stephanie, Mary Ann and other women that I have met for the first time; the common thread was Nancie - what a goddess! The spiritual expressions in ceremonies and the eating was the best! The hot and cold tubs were great; love the cold contrast from sitting in the hot mineral water. It was like I was sitting in 'women stew' ;)

Meanwhile, I have finished the poka-dot sweater but have yet to weave in the loose ends. I realize it's too big for me after all therefore it still sits on a pretty hanger. I also accidently corrected 3 of the 6 button holes in the front ribbing; forgot those holes were intentional. Got the long sliver buttons hoping 3 will keep is close when worn.

I also made another Elzbeth Lavold short-sleeved lace pullover in 3-4 weeks with the easiest yarn to work with - Marisol. I guess I am turning into a sweater machine! "I can do that!!"

Tomorrow for Thanksgiving, I will have an out-of-town visitor to stay with me for the Holiday and throughout the weekend while visiting other friends. His name is Bill and an ex-beau and I am about to put him through a busy weeken. Will have to keep you all posted on what this adventure visit will bring.

Happy Thanksgiving.