My life has gone to the dogs and I love it!

My latest knitting projects...

2012-01-08T19:52:00.000-05:00

I have been working on this doll for my little neice Maddy for a while now as time and schedule would permit. It was a lot of fun to make and I will, at some point in the future, make another for my grandbaby hope chest. I was really tickled with how well it turned out!

While doing this project I learned some new techniques like the curly q hair, a new style of increase, an interesting way to embroider the eyes, and how to make knees!

I loved knitting the button nose,

her little toes,

and she even has a little outie belly button!

Not to mentione the outfit of clothes and a matching hat for dolly and Maddy!

I don't think Maddy quite new what to think of her at first. She also did not want to wear her hat (she doesn't like hats but her momma says she has to wear one!) But with encouragement from her big sisters Morgan, Sammy and Amanda, she was soon wearing it with a smile!

Anyone who knows me, knows I always have a pair of socks on the needle. This pair was made while my mom was in surgery, during visiting hours at the hospital, and when Mom and I knitted together during Mom's recovery before I returned to PA.

They were made for my office mate Amy who held down the office while I was away.

As you can see, she has happy feet!

Next up, an overdue high school graduation present for another neice, a pair of socks for my son Tim, and finishing my son & daughter~n~laws afghan. Yes Samantha, I will finish yours first!!!

What do you have on the needles?

Mixed Blessings

2012-01-03T20:03:00.000-05:00

As yesterday I was a little under the weather with a stomach virus, I didn't get a chance to post. So I have a couple of blessings to share...

I was blessed with a lazy day and great company on New Years day...

(this one was a sneak camera attack cause the eldest kept laughing or making obscene hand gestures)

The blessing of a furry friend and a spot of sunshine...

and the ever-changing scenery in NW Pennsylvania with a foot of snow. See the sparkle of the snow and imagine every little snowflake is unique!

Wow, it is 2012 already!

2012-01-01T18:31:00.006-05:00

I don't know about you, but it has been a busy 2011 for me!

When I last posted I was in KY helping my mom who had a total knee replacement surgery. I enjoyed my time with Mom (though not the reason for it!), and I am grateful that my employers support and encourage family care. My dear hubby is also very supportive and I wouldn't have been able to go if he wasn't at home holding down the fort, so to speak, taking care of the houndies, cats, chickens, plants, working, cooking, grocery shopping...you get the picture!

While I was away, my middle son Tim has completed his college courses at UNCW and has moved home in between starting his internship in Washington DC mid-January. He graduates in May with his degree in Recreation Therapy. He had a nice surprise waiting for me when I pulled into the driveway at 11PM two days before Christmas. The lighted deer and Christmas tree were in the front yard set up and glowing, attached to the Christmas lights lining the front porch my oldest son, Kerry Lee, had helped me put up during the warm spell right after Thanksgiving. Then when I came into the house I saw that Tim had set up and decorated the Christmas tree, hung the Christmas stockings for everyone including the dogs and cats, and had decorated the rest of the house as well! What a blessing!

Since Christmas I have returned to work for a very brief work week, my sons Kerry Lee and Ben along with my daughter-in-law Elise, came for the New Year holiday as well as my nephew Dan and new niece-n-law's wedding this past Friday evening. Sounds like a lot doesn't it!

2011 was like that.

The whole year long!

I am not complaining, just stating it like it was. 2011 was exhausting for me.

We had job changes, college graduations, the boys coming home and leaving again, we helped two of the boys move ( and one of them moved home twice in between college, job changes and his wedding). We had a death (PJ you are not forgotten), a wedding, a birth, court appearances, a garden, some canning, etc....in short "life"!

I've shared all of that with you to say this, last year I wasn't able to blog very often. I was too busy (or too tired) living life to write about it. So while I don't really have New Year's resolutions, my husband and I took some time last night and today to outline some goals that we would like to work towards.

One of them, for me, is taking time each day to share with you something that has blessed me during the day. I hope to accomplish two things in doing this; the first is that I take time to slow down, to notice, and savour the everyday moments that I take for granted. The second is to inspire you to do the same.

May 2012 be a year that you are blessed!

Kentucky

2011-12-14T22:49:00.000-05:00

Once again I am in the great state of Kentucky this year.

What a big difference from PA. For one thing, no snow! The weather is beautiful. Today is was very breezy and warm, I was outside in a short sleeve shirt. In December! Who would have thought.

While I am using my vacation time to be here, technically I am not on vacation. My mom who a lot of you know from Sunny's Studio, Changing Lanes and Just Plain Country, had to have a total knee replacement surgery yesterday. Yes, she is doing quite well, thanks for asking!

I have been keeping company with Mizz Izzy, who although enjoying the attention from me, the extra treats, playing with her toys on the floor with me, and the walks to try to distract her, still is looking for her special someone. Even now every little noise she hears as she lays up on the back of the couch, she looks up and out the door, trying to see if that is Mom coming home. Too bad hospitals do not allow visitors from patients pets...I really think that would cheer up the one who is recovering as well as allow the dog to understand that their person is still around and where they are. Hmmm, maybe something to try to get programmed into the hospital system...

In the meantime, my hound babies have been hanging with dear hubby. We have a standing skype session at 9 PM EST, in which the pups join in. So even though they can't figure how to get me out of that funny little box (and boy have I shrunk!) at least they hear my voice and can see me, and I them.

My hubby has taken over all my routines with the pups while I am gone, but I think he is enjoying himself. He says that Skittles, HoneyDew and Sampson all take turns laying across his lap and in some cases over both arm rests!

I am hoping my next visit down here (if I can't persuade Mom to move north, ssshhhhh!) will be a true vacation with all of us being together doing vacationey things.

How do you handle absences from your pet and how do they handle life without you?

ahhhhhh.....

2011-12-07T22:09:00.001-05:00

(Click on the picture for more information on the services offered here.)

Once a month, best treatment there is for keeping me healthy and my disc issues from getting out of hand! I get the deep tissue massage on a monthly basis and I can honestly say it makes a big difference in a lessen amount of headaches, I don't have the feeling of a stake stuck in my shoulder blade, I am more flexible and most of the time I sleep better (except when my boys are traveling, lol!).

Thank you dear hubby for insisting on this! You are the best!

Beach Hounds

2011-12-04T15:37:00.002-05:00

The weather was sunny and beautiful on Saturday so the hounds and I thought we would take advantage of it by going to the Erie Peninsula.

If you have read many of my posts, you know that we like it best if the hounds can go off leash. Honey Dew and Sampson are very obedient and come back to me when called.

Of course one of the mandates is that dogs be leashed on the Peninsula even in the off-season...but no one said that I actually had to hold the leash, just be in control of the dogs, and as the beach was deserted I thought I would risk if for a a little while.

Sampson and HoneyDew posing for the camera before I let them run and explore.

So many sounds, sights and best of all new smells to explore! Which way to go first?

Evidently this scent was interesting...I was really hoping the hounds would not pick up a dead fish anywhere! Or worse, roll in one!

A moment before I snapped this photo, Sampson was facing me with strings of drool hanging from his mouth and sand particles clinging to it, evidently he didn't want you to see that cause he whipped right around and started shaking it off only to wrap it up around his nose! Too funny!

I love how the waves come in and make little pools. The sun and breeze was invigorating. I think we walked for about two hours along the beaches and part of the walking/bike path.

Just hanging out and enjoying the view.

There was room enough for me on the bench too, and I did share it for awhile with Sampson half on my lap.

Smile for the camera!

Honey Dew was more interested in bird watching then my attempts with the camera.

This is one of my favorite pictures! I brought the smooth rocks and fresh water clam shell home with me so that I could remember a great day shared with my two best pals. I am sure that you recognize the paw prints but can you guess what the long swish marks are?

"Basset Happy Ears and Happy Feet"

One of the blessings...

2011-11-07T18:06:00.000-05:00

of working at camp is being able to see the wonder of God's creation everyday. It has been a beautiful fall with the kaleidoscope of colors of the trees, the different animals that we see such as the Great American Eagle, Great Horned Owls, Great Heron, Deer, variety of snakes, lizards, toads, etc.

Today, when I pulled into camp I got to see this little guy up close, (thanks goes to Stan Smith whose iPhone takes much better pictures then my cell phone).

And here is one with my office-mate Amy!

Very rare to see an albino porcupine. He looks so soft and cuddly, but as you know, looks can be deceiving,. I believe he is blind or doesn't have very good eye sight, but thanks to his quills he seems to be managing just fine!

DOT's - Thankful November

2011-11-03T07:49:00.001-04:00

Sun peaking through the clouds.

Happy sniffing all around.

Goofy faces from my clown!

Rolling, rolling on the ground!

Exploring up, up...

and down.

Peaceful watching, listening to nature's sounds.

I am thankful for my Hounds!

Bike Ride 9/25/11

2011-09-26T21:11:00.000-04:00

I set out to see a part of the bike trail that I hadn't ridden on before as well as overcome the challenge of the tunnel below. This tunnel is like entering a cave. In fact before entering it I could feel the cold, chilling draft several feet from the opening of the entrance. Even with my bike LED light, the light was not strong enough to penetrate the overwhelming darkness, It took serveral moments inside to get my eyes adjusted to be able to see the reflectors on the ground.

Either there where icicles or very white tree roots hanging from the ceiling. This picture is looking back at the entrance. This tunnel is 3350'long and has a curve so you cannot see the other end till you are all most out of it therefore pretty much a ride in pitch black. Other cyclists have come to the tunnel with a wall of fog guarding the entrance. I lucked out.

Here is the sign giving information about the tunnel at the opposite end of the tunnel. Quite an invitation into the tunnel if you read the whole thing. Glad it was at this end or I might have chickened out!

After passing through the tunnel on the otherside I was rewarded by a sighting of some "leatherbacks". Actually there were quite a few more and larger in size, but they spotted me and they slid into the river before I could get focused in well enough.

On the way back I also stopped at this site which is on the National Registry. Of course I wasn't content with just snapping pics from the observation point, nope, I had to climb down to get some upclose and personal shots because I wanted to see the Indian etchings for myself.

And I also wanted to get the shots from the river side of the rock so out I went onto stepping stones ( my husband just shook his head).

Pretty cool huh! The next pic is one that I took just because of the texture of the twisted trunk of the tree against the rock strata. Kind of reminded me of some yarns in our LYS that I might want to try.

As I was going along, and as I was by myself, the song "me and my shadow" popped into my head...can't imagine why except that by this point I was really needing a distraction from the pain in my hips, but, thighs, knees and shoulder blades. Oh did I mention that at this point I had went 26 miles and had 6 more to go to get back to where I parked the car?

So I got my distraction! Take a look at this...

This eagle was using a narrow part of the river as his own personal bird bath! Unfortunately He was quite some distance so I had to use my zoom lenz to take the pictures and they are not the greatest besides which the shots of him throwing water over himself and splashing did not come out very clear.

And some beautiful country out here which will really be beautiful in the near future when the leaves turn.

Hope you enjoyed the pics!

DOT's-Saturday Evening Walk

2011-08-04T08:00:00.001-04:00

A slight difference of opinion.

"I think he is going to fall in!" *tries hard to stifle the laughter*

"No problem." *wipes cold sweat from brow.*

"We need something to keep up our energy. what do you mean you brought water? I was thinking more along the lines of steak."

The long way home or seems so after a 1 1/2 hour hike one way.

Sampson thinks maybe he might try a short cut...just kidding...

In the jungel, the mighty jungle...

2011-08-03T21:51:00.000-04:00

Here kitty kitty...

"I have made my great escape. And I am not ready to come inside."

"Still not ready."

"Interesting."

"I am the great hunter, raahrrr."

"Maybe I will just wait till the prey passes by...or one of the dogs!"

Gardening - Picture heavy post ahead!

2011-08-03T00:43:00.000-04:00

Summer is a busy time. There simply isn't enough time in the day, or week for that matter to get everything done that I would like to. Especially working my new/old job again at which summer is their peak time too.

So I take snatches of time where I can and try to stop and smell the zinnia's along the way. Speaking of zinnia's (we where weren't we?) I had a splurge moment and I couldn't resist these pink zinnia's. I am planning on taking seeds from them this fall to replant in the spring.

I love the changing colors from bright pink to a muted mauve that has an antiqued look to them.

Ok, so this has taken up a bit of my time with the weeding and all, plus it will get busier soon with canning up the veggies.

First time for pole beans for us, we usually plant the bush variety...if the beans are as prolific as the vines and leaves, I would say this is one I will do again.

Look at all the blossoms! Should make a lot of beans.

Next up is zuchini and yellow squash.

Just love those little golden beauties!

One stand of corn.

Some cabbages, and actually there is another row with some in. you can just make out the squash plants to the left and the pepper plants to the right.

Peppers are coming on. They usually like the cooler weather, so they are earlier this year dispite 90 degree weather.

This practically looks like a field of tomatoes, but originally they were planted in rows...they just kind of took over...nice problem to have so no complaints here.

Can you see the tomatoes in there?

Tomatoes to the right, onions in the middle and cucumbers to the left.

Egg plant near the top right ( a row of them), seems to be the bugs' favoite.

Stand of corn number 2.

A patch of winter squash, hubbard, acorn, butternut, yummm! I can hardly wait to taste it but I can definitely wait on the cold weather and snow.

Ok, so the story here is once upon a time there was a blueberry bush and my father-n-law would send over windfall rotting apples from his hybrid tree that would give acidity to the soil and in turn promote healthy growth in the blueberry bush. First I was assured that the seeds from the apple would not grow. Then I was told to cut it down because it would never produce good apples. I believe this was from Cortland apples.

It's first year of bearing fruit there was only one or two. Last year there were a few more. This year we will enjoy a bumper crop because every branch is covered like the one below!

The hens and roosters from one cackle way like the garden too as they get the peelings, husks and some veggies that have been left on the vine too long.

Are you gardening this year?

It was a good day...

2011-07-14T21:15:00.000-04:00

so I suprised the pups with a treat in celebration. Something in a Sauvignon mignon '11...

HoneyDew and Sampson agree very good vintage!

Happy DOT's!

On the needles...

2011-06-03T00:00:00.003-04:00

Socks for Hubby using Patons Kroy Socks Fx yarn and the pattern is Men's Woven Rib Sock by Sarah E. White and can be found here.

Life happens...

2011-06-02T06:50:00.002-04:00

You probably are wondering what is going on around this blog. Perhaps you are wondering if the houndies, chickens, cats, just got fed up, packed up and left bloggyland. Nope no such luck, lol!

We have had EVENTS.

What with the NEW JOB, NEW SCHEDULE, 2 bouts of the PLAGUE, the BIG MOVE, another slighly smaller MOVE, preparations for our own ROYAL WEDDING, the computer TAKE OVER for the BIG JOB HUNT, APARTMENT HUNT, and another MOVE in a little under two weeks, things should get back to normal after that!

It has been a lot of fun, and I have been enjoying spending the time with the family before everyone is moved to their permanent destinations.

I do have to agree with my friend Tobi though. HoneyDew and Sampson probably are ready to have me arrested for neglect! There has not been one single doggy ice cream run, dog park trips and cuddle time has been limited to evenings and early mornings.

They ~~expect~~ demand that things get back to normal asap!

Happy DOT's!

DOT Post- Sunday afternoon walk

2011-04-14T13:21:00.000-04:00

On our walk we saw a herd of turtles, and yes that is what we call 'em around these here parts!

Flowers were starting to open!

I don't know if HoneyDew was pretending to be a turtle, or just inspired by them but Miss Priss who doesn't like going out in the rain or walking in the wet grass, had absolutely no problem with this...

Of course Sampson couldn't be shown up by a girl!

After the walk, the pups were treated to a doggy sunday, complete with doggy biscuit, and yes the pics are blurry cause they were moving so fast eating their treat!

This really is Sampson with his doggy bowl, you can make out the shape of the cone and his snout!

Happy DOT's!

Spring Planting

2011-03-28T13:24:00.000-04:00

Ordered and will be shipped to my house in time for planting...

6 dwarf fruit trees, red and yellow apples, nectarine, pear, peach and cherry.

7 double delights because they are my favorite roses, and I want to fill the house with them.

Early Spring Riverwalk-DOT Post

2011-03-24T03:00:00.005-04:00

Finally the snow has melted and we are able to get out of the house for some nice walkies! It is so good to smell the ground again. It is still chilly but we are anxious to sniff out any p-mail we can find!

Just look at my younger brother... he is so excited to be out and about he has drool wrapped up around his nose. Can't take him anywhere... but as long as he keeps his distance, no one will know we are related. You know just in case I run into any good looking golden retreivers...

Arrroooweee the river sure is high! Momma dog does not let us go near there. She yells "leave it" and "come" , you don't have to tell me twice. That is scary out there.

Arrrooooweee what have we here! If we were in a contest right now, someone sure would have won the award for 'fetch it'. A little extreme though don't you think?

Birds are out!

All kinds of 'em. This one is a bit shy!

It didn't want to play with us, no matter how many times we barked and howled at it, it kept going the other way!

Momma says the buds are pretty... if she says so...

I would rather look for rabbits, or deer, or bear.

Sampson's such a show off... telling me to hurry up and calling me slow poke!

But as you can see I am right behind him... he just has longer legs then me.

Whew what a great walk, that tired me out!

Time to take our basset bums back to the car for some snackies and a nice nap!

Happy DOT's Everyone!

HoneyDew "Don't Disturb" Basset

Surprise!!!

2011-03-23T20:32:00.001-04:00

While I apologize for the blurriness of this picture, you can still make out the big smile when I surprised Kerry for his 50th Birthday at his second home...yep, the archery club! I forgot the camera (again) so all the pictures were taken with the cell phone, between that and the lighting, we are lucky any of them came out half way decent!

The cake turned out really nice!

And of course no birthday is complete without balloons!

Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

What do you get when you add...

2011-03-22T23:34:00.000-04:00

great friends,

great vendors,

great causes,

great selection,

great products,

and great buys?

Answer: A Great Time!!!

Next up:

April 9, 2011 Youngstown OH.

Walk in the Moonlight

2011-03-19T21:56:00.001-04:00

Dusk

Moon Rise

Super Moon, Beautiful Night!

Sometimes the simplest things in life bring the most joy.

Sometimes letting go isn't easy...

2011-03-16T23:57:00.002-04:00

...most of the time it is just downright painful. I will admit I am a collector. No not in the hoarder sense or in material things. I think that would be easier. No, I am a collector of people/relationships.

The relationships vary; acquaintances, different degrees of friendship, family, etc. but the point is that once you are in my circle I really do care. I may not call on an hourly, weekly or in some cases, monthly basis; I let the other person set the pace according to their preferences.

I will also admit to a trait that while well meaning, can be detrimental to me as well as another, and that is I hate to see anyone hurting. I have been called Miss Fix-it on more than one occasion. And while I don't offer unsolicited advice, if we are having a conversation (in the true meaning of the word, not the one sided kind) if you are my friend, I may suggest thinking positively, try to give a different outlook or offer an alternative perspective. I do believe that a person can believe themselves into a happy life/set of circumstances, so I guess that makes me an optimist as well.

I also believe in unconditional acceptance. No one is perfect. I accept people for who they are, warts and all (Lord knows I could be a frog princess with all my warts!) I look for the good qualities and talents in people and wish sometimes that I had a mirror, that when a person looked into it, they would see what I see.

I have very recently come to the understanding, that some relationships cannot be saved. A relationship is two sided, just like a conversation is supposed to be. Some people simply do not have the energy/ability to participate in a relationship. Sometimes it takes all a body's energy to get through the day with a healthy outlook. This is not selfishness. It is a survival technique. I understand that for them, hearing about someones happy life can be painful for that person if they are not happy themselves. Even when they have asked "how is so and so doing".

There was a line in a movie once that said "those that loved him, bashed themselves against the rock that was ________". I get it.

Out of friendship and respect for a person, sometimes you just have to honor their wishes, pray for them, keep the door open, a light in the window, wish them well, cherish the memories and let them go...

Just sharing a thought.

Dogs On Thursday...

2011-03-10T21:43:00.000-05:00

No my dog isn't spoiled...

...why do you ask????

Skittles has a new toy...

2011-03-09T21:35:00.000-05:00

...oh Yaaay :-?

Faithful even when you are ill...

2011-03-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

There is nothing quite as comforting as a bed full of fur when you are ill. The faithfulness of your canine and feline companions, nursing you through your illnesss,

sharing your pain and helping you pass the time of your confinement to bed,

or may be just hogging the heat from your electric blanket!!! Whatever their motivation, I for one, was grateful for their company while I was down with the flu!

Happy DOT's!

Sunday Smiles...

2011-01-24T12:43:00.000-05:00

I walked into the kitchen Sunday morning and found this...

I wonder if she selected the channel herself :-)

HoneyDew feels special...

2011-01-22T12:37:00.000-05:00

Well and she really is special, to me anyways. She is a girlie hound, always has been, and she loves to wear bows. Seriously! If you take them off (no matter how delapidated it is) after she has worn them awhile, she still comes back over to you wanting you to put it back on. The more colorful the better. Maybe it is all the attention she gets because she looks so adorable in them? Anyways, so today I made a purchase just for her...well and maybe just a little bit for me too!

and while she is a girlie houndie, she is a country girlie houndie so we got some 'country' ribbon to start with...

Isn't she cute?!

Sampson says: "Don't even think about it!"

A smile for the day...

2011-01-17T12:55:00.000-05:00

I love these pictures! I have been there and done that! Of course with 3 less children and the 30+ chickens were in the basement! I loved those days!

And this one, believe it or not is someday what I hope for, when my hubby and I are old and grey, just sitting around enjoying each other's company as well as at least one basset by our feet. And one of my goals is to learn to quilt by hand. (Maybe my mom will come for another visit this spring??)

Anyways I really enjoyed the pictures when my dad sent them in an email this morning. They made me smile and so I wanted to share them with you!

Mid-Week Knitting

2011-01-14T07:01:00.001-05:00

I had a very enjoyable evening of knitting last night with two friends/neighbors! I had been looking forward to having a ladies night for a while now but with adjusting to being back to work full-time, the holidays, a bad cold, my youngest's college graduation, amd moving him across the state to start work, there really hasn't been the opportunity before now.

It was very low key. I just made a very simple bruchetta for snacking, had hot tea or sodas available and we sat at the kitchen table knitting away and chatting. Two and a half hours later, we called the evening a success and agreed to get together next Monday night at 6:30 again!

Oh and what nice projects they were working on! Cari (who calls herself a beginner, but I disagree) was creating a lovely lacy scarf in a leaf pattern, and Kathi was finishing an Elizabeth Zimmerman baby sweater, with a matching hat that was already finished. Of course once again I was so busy having fun that I neglected to get pictures. But maybe Monday I will!

Naked Bassets in the Snow!

2011-01-13T12:34:00.001-05:00

Ever notice the colder it is out, the straighter the tale is? And look at the top photo, this was at the last part of the walk, on our way back to the car, look who beat me to the car. That would never happen in the summer time!

Happy DOT's!

Walking in a winter wonderland...

2010-12-13T20:11:00.000-05:00

Not today that is for sure! With the temps at a paltry 10 degrees no one wants to be out walking or anything else! Especially HoneyDew, for the second day in a row she has squatted in the house to piddle.

She is not being sneaky, oh no, she is very blatant about it! She is not asking to be let out as is her usual custom. Last night hubby was watching tv and there she squatted right in front of him. And tonight she came upstairs where I am on the computer, just wandered in and squatted.

I caught her prepiddleinteruptus and got her behind out the door! I am keeping an eye on her to make sure she doesn't have a bladder infection. So far I dont see any other symptoms, knowing her she just doesn't like to go out in the winter weather.

Anyways, we are all warm and snug as a bug in here. Just excited for the boys to come home for Christmas!

Looking forward to making some cookies tomorrow night...maybe some ginger cookies...these look like great candidates...

I think I will mix them up before work, then bake them after dinner. I can smell them already!

Christmas time in the country...

2010-12-12T16:18:00.001-05:00

Well it's getting close anyways. We got the tree up and the wreaths hung on the doors as well as a few outdoor lights and greens.

Obviously the decorating was just too much for some of us...

Hubby is watching the football game. Boys will be home next weekend.
I've got a cold but I wanted to:

get groceries this weekend, check
clean house, check
and decorate, check.

This week my plan is to bake some Christmas cookies and to do some Christmas shopping.

So I think for the rest of the afternoon, I will sip tea, take a nap and knit!

And just like that, winter.

2010-12-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

We really have had a very mild fall. The temps have, for the most part, stayed in the upper 50's-low 60's range. We knew it had to come at some point but I was suprised nonetheless to find snow on the ground when I woke up this morning. The snow is more pleasant then the rain we have had for the last two days. I know that HoneyDew thinks so. Poor little girl can only cross her short little basset legs before she has to give up and go out to relieve herself. Of course, I am the one standing out there with her holding the umbrella!

Speaking of HoneyDew, and well Sampson too, they have had to make some real adjustments. As you know my basset babies have been with me pretty much 24/7 since they were 10 and 8 weeks old respectively. I have very recently rejoined the workforce fulltime but unfortunately the pups cannot go with me as they were used to doing with my last two positions.

This has meant, ready or not at 5:30 AM, we are out the door for an early morning walk (unless it's raining because HoneyDew does not do rain!). It's dark when we walk but at least the roadway is not very busy at that hour. And so far, it's been ok. With the new weather conditions, snow, ice, etc. we will see how it goes and I may have to adjust the schedule again.

I think while I am gone during the day, HoneyDew mostly sleeps. Sampson on the other hand is quite different. I think Sampson believes that we got Skittles the kitten for his amusement. He watches her every move and they have become fast friends as well as partners in crime! Their favorite hit is the garbage can in the bathroom and the one beside my bed that has balled up tissues in it...or did have.

Also I believe Skittles knocks anything that will roll off the coffee table, end tables, desk etc. onto the floor for Sampson too chew up. So far it hasn't been anything important or anything that could hurt him, he just chews it up and spits it out. They haven't bothered my knitting bin yet, needless to say a treat puzzle ball will be one of my purchases very soon!

I miss them during the day too truth be known, but I do try to make it up to them with snuggles in the evening and hikes on the weekend. I know that we will all adjust, but any tips you would like to send my way would be appreciated.

I do love the views out the windows, the unique shapes of the snowflakes, ice cicles, the crunch of the snow underfoot and the fresh smell of the air. If we could have all that without the plunging temperatures that would be great!

I am thinking we may have to do evening walks, after the plows have gone through, the only problem with that is the salt that will be on the road. I may have to put out a dishpan of water to rinse their paws when they come in...

Anyways, hope you and yours are staying warm and enjoying the winter weather where ever you are.

Oh and happy DOT's!

2010-11-22T20:37:00.000-05:00

As HoneyDew, Sampson, Skittles and I (you know I can't do anything without 3 sets of eyes ~~supervising~~ watching me) will be so busy getting ready for the holiday we won't have the time to blog. We will be counting our blessings and include our blogging buddies as one of them. So from all the Switzer's (including the furbabies)...

Author Unknown

Birds of Prey...and other "guests".

2010-11-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

So one day a couple of weeks ago, my flock of chickens had a guest. I am not sure whether he was invited or not, but none of the chickens had their feathers ruffled and knowing my hens, well let's just say their gift of hospitality sometimes exceeds their sense!

Can you identify what hawk this is? I was thinking a Cooper hawk or immature Red Tail. As you can see the chickens aren't all that worried as there isn't anyway for the hawk to get in.

Spotted this owl along the road on my way home...sure is a beauty.

Kerry and I saw this Eagle near Lake Wilhelm.

I think they are impressive one and all.

Sampson is moping...

2010-11-11T21:56:00.000-05:00

If you look into the back ground you can see what he is down about. Do you need a closer look?

HoneyDew and Skittles snuggling in Dad's chair.

HoneyDew says: "Snooze you loose!"

Happy DOT's!

Latest Knitting Projects...

2010-11-10T02:07:00.000-05:00

Off the needles and just in time!

We had two additions to our family this fall which of course meant some heavy duty knitting time. I had two sisters expecting at around the same time and both my nephew and my neice came a bit earlier then expected. I had already posted baby Jacob's gifts...

Crib Blanket pattern from Debbie Macombers Building Blocks Crib Blanket the Shop on Blossom Street
and hippo from Itsy Bitsy Toys by Susan B. Anderston.

...but as everything was happening so fast I did not get a chance to post a pic of the baby! Here is baby Jacob with big brother Josh...

Then came Miss Maddie...

for her gift which was my first attempt for knitting baby clothes...

As you can see Miss Maddie has quite abit to "grow" for!

Back view of dress. Dress made from Debbie Bliss pattern Flower Frock.

Then of course was the little boy who saw me knitting a hat for my son and 'hinted' that he wished I would knit a hat for him since his birthday was coming up soon! He even picked out the colors he thought would look nice. Of course I couldn't make him one without making one for his little brother, although he did get to choose first!

I bet their Mom thinks this is a rare sight to see the boys this close without it being something along the lines of a headlock!

Thanks for posing guys!

Last but not least as the temps were falling I made myself a scarf using Mochi's Bodega Bay, which I did post the colorway in a previous post, but then since I had some Merino wool in a lavendar I decided to make myself a beret also from a pattern on Ravelry called Meret. I had some of the lavendar left over so I thought I would make a pair of mittens too so I could have a complete set...

The dogs will be happy to know their treat jar came in handy as a model!

How about you? Since the temperature has started falling have you felt the desire to work wth some nice comforting wool?

Skittles

2010-11-06T19:55:00.001-04:00

So we have a new 4 legged addition to the household and her name is Skittles. When Skittles first arrived she was one hissing mess let me tell you. Not in appearance or anything like that. She was just...well....skittish! And she is a calico kitten. So that is how we came up with the name. Just imagine a colorful bag of Skittles hitting the floor, breaking open upon impact and candies flying every which direction at once, complete with sound effects and there my friends you have a pretty good impression of Skittles!

This kitten was hidden from people, with the rest of her litter by their mama, for approximately the first 5 weeks of her life. The person who brought her over for me to meet was bitten that very morning trying to catch her. When I met her (I had a choice between two calicos, the other one was friendlier, go figure) we seemed to make an instant connection. And within the first 24 hours no longer tried to hide from me or hiss at me. By the weeks end she was standing by the gated opening meeting the hounds, still hissing at them but no longer hiding in any cupboard/crevice she could find.

Two weeks in, she knew her name and comes running when called. She loves to climb up my leg and onto my lap. She has the dogs trained to her satisfaction. She will curl up with them and nap, plays with their tails, and their toys, and pretty much rules the roost at this point.

Trying to get a good picture of her though is almost next to impossible because she moves so quickly, even on the action setting. Here is a few that we have taken and she will be making frequent appearances here with the pups too!

Anytime I am on the computer, she is too! Loves to watch the mouse, flickering lights, etc.

Here she is telling me I have been on the computer enough by biting my finger and pouncing on my hands.

She likes grandpa and thinks he makes a nice climbing post.

Last but not least sitting with me being adorable while I am knitting! Isn't she cute!

A Real Date Night!

2010-11-05T21:54:00.000-04:00

Every Friday, my DH and I go out for date night (generally with my Dad and Step Ma). This usually includes dinner somewhere, a trip to WallyWorld, Dunham's Sporting Goods, Ollies, or sometimes we just cut the evening short and go home. Not much to do around here on a typical Friday night unless it is near a holiday or one fest or the other.

As you know I do enjoy a glass of wine from time to time and therefore I am on the mailing list for a couple of the local wineries. About a month ago I got an email from Deercreek Winery about an event they were having last weekend...

"L ive Music This Friday Night, Oct. 29, 6:30-8:00
Cluricaun, Celtic Ensemble

The band consists of 5-7 members depending on who shows up! Hammer Dulcimer: Sally Ringland
...Tin Whistle, Concertina, & Voice: Mike McConnell
Bodhran, Harmonica, & Voice: Jim Rose
Voice: Linda Rose
Guitar: Greg Goodman & Rob Bullington
Fiddle: Karen SpuckCluricaun plays traditional Celtic Music.

Come out to the main winery and enjoy a nice evening with wine, snacks, and of course great music. This is our last one until May...be sure you make it!
~No cover charge~"

I am a big fan of Celtic/Irish/Scottish/ Dulcimer music and have collected a number of CD's over the years. So a chance to hear someone play my favorite instruments live time was a real thrill! After ~~quite a lot of arm twisting~~ recruiting the rest of the gang to go with, and a couple of others, good friends Denny and Kathie Z we were off to enjoy the evening. It was a blast! I wish there was something like this every weekend but I guess we enjoy things more if they don't come along that often.

Of course I wanted to share some of it with you! I did ask the group for permission to put the following clips on here so I am all legal and stuff ;-)

Please excuse the background noise, some people are totally RUDE, and of course this is my first attempt at posting a clip from my camera but here goes...

The second was a little better accoustic wise, but neither gave a true representation of just how good these muscians were...

Loving the Fall Colors-DOT Post

2010-10-21T09:08:00.000-04:00

Fall is my favorite time of year. I love almost everything about it (except archery of course!), the scent in the air, all the colors, the leaves swirling around as they fall, the brisk air, the rustling leaves as you walk. And evidently the hounds feel the same as I do.

HoneyDew gets quite peppy in the fall, running, sniffing, she has lots of energy after being sluggish from the summer heat. She can walk for hours going in one direction. If we turn around to retrace our steps, she becomes quite obstinate, passive aggressive even! Can you imagine pushing, prodding, carrying a basset that weighs 64 pounds when she decides she does not want to move?

Sampson just becomes the Giant Idiot. Bone Headed even! He does the stupidest things. Running full on at HoneyDew and literally bowling her over. Barking at falling leaves. Chasing squirrels into a briar patch, without an escape plan and then looking pitifully at me like "heh, I am kind of stuck here, what aren't you going to help get me out?"

Me: Nope you were having fun getting in there you can have fun getting out!

He especially loved the mud holes that were camoflaged with leaves. You know *gallop, gallop, gallop, splosh, slip, slide = underbelly full of mud and leaves! Then the stiff legg walk trying to get the crackling leaves and sticking mud off of him.

Me: You better hope that falls off before we get back to the car!

A couple final scenic shots of our walk.

Wherever your trails and tails take you, have a happy DOT!

A beautiful fall day, 29 years ago...

2010-10-10T06:00:00.002-04:00

A little country church and friends and family...

pledges made and meant...

a Blessing...

the happy couple...

the wedding party...

the first of many "meals"...

Some good natured ribbing...

Off to start our new life...

He still hangs the moon for me...

Happy Anniversary sweetheart!

Riverwalk...

2010-10-09T19:54:00.001-04:00

Gorgeous afternoon so the houndies and I set off for a riverwalk...of course once again, I forgot my camera, but did manage a couple of snaps on my cell phone.

The fall colors are really coming out.

I don't know if you can make out the picture below, but it was clusters of wild grapes left after the grape leaves have died back.

So after this idyllic walk, imagine my horror, that in between loading up the hounds to come back home and unloading back at the house, HoneyDew's face and head must have been crawling with thousands of ticks! Well maybe not that many...but it sure seemed like it. Thank heaven the frontline was working because the ticks would go down into her fur then come right back up which made it a lot easier to get them off her. All I can say is eeeewwwwwe! Sampson only had like four on him, but he mostly stayed in the clearings unlike Miss Nose that has to go into every bit of underbrush and high weeds she can find.
Someone remind me of this next fall, k?

Rain, Rain, go away!

2010-10-07T08:41:00.001-04:00

This past week, it hasn't done much but rain in these parts, so the Bassets caught up on some "much needed" rest...

and dreamt of days like this....

Happy DOT's!

All Mondays - Cancelled - Until futher notice...

2010-10-04T17:26:00.003-04:00

I don't know about you but I could do without Mondays. Anything that can go wrong will go wrong on Monday...or at the very least that is when I will hear about it.

Somedays, I really want to put a sign on the door, an automated email response, facebook posting, answering machine message, etc, that says "Sorry but we are closed on Mondays, come back on Tuesday. Unless it is bad news. In case of bad news, we are closed for good!"

I am always hopeful for Mondays, they are the start of a new week. A new beginning. This week I am going to stick to my fitness plan, excercise plan, cleaning schedule, project schedule. I have energy, I have a plan! Then within an hour of getting out of bed, the phone rings, there is a knock at the door, I open the newspaper, turn on the tv, or whatever and bam there it is -bad news. Plans, projects, schedules are poof, gone. Lost. Scattered. or Hiding. Come on already, I haven't even had my cup of tea yet!

Maybe it is not really Mondays? Maybe it is that I get out of bed on Mondays. If I told you what Mondays have been like around here, you would a.) laugh, b.) cry or c.) just shake your head and say thanks for the warning I will stay away on Mondays just to be sure it doesn't rub off!

I should ask my mother which day of the week I was born on. I don't have a clue. And although we have all heard...

Mondays child is fair of face,
Tuesdays child is full of grace,
Wednesdays child is full of woe,
Thursdays child has far to go,
Fridays child is loving and giving,
Saturdays child works hard for his living,
And the child that is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonny and blithe, and good and gay.

...I don't believe it for a minute. Of course this poem was recorded back in 1838 with early evidence of it being around since the 1570's. I'll bet they went by a different calendar back then. And it has also been rumored some of the days/fortunes may have been switched around.

If the two suppositions mentioned above are true, I'll bet I was born on a Monday. Yep, that would explain a lot!

Come back on Tuesday, it will be a more upbeat post. Tuesdays are great. Yep come back on Tuesday...and thanks for letting me rant!

Pups on Vacation

2010-09-30T09:41:00.001-04:00

To say that the pups had a fun time would be an understatement. They loved having a tv and and a bed to themselves...

and excursions planned just for them...

of course they did stop to check out the rules...

then it was off to meet new friends...

get informed of the local points of interest, find out the best spots for sniffs and smells...

explore the boundaries...

play some doggie games...

HoneyDew: Are you sure it is really "fun" to go in there?

Some pups got real rambunctious...

HoneyDew thought maybe she would watch the action from here...

and that just maybe someone should remind the pups of the rules...

it seemed like all the doggy parents were catching up on the latest too....

HoneyDew and Sampson were happy to spend some time with Max, cause they do miss him alot!

The saying goes that a tired pup is a good pup, I have to say I must have the most wonderful pups, because at the end of the day...

Happy Dogs on Thursday!

A peaceful Sunday ride...

2010-09-17T20:20:00.000-04:00

Hubby and I decided to take one Sunday, pack a picnic lunch and bike from Oil Creek to Drake Well. Would you like to come along?

Petroeum Railway Center

One of two bridges we cross over, very scenic views as you can see below.

And if you look even closer...

a lovely heron. I love how everything reflects in the water on days like this.

A very quiet peaceful ride and quite beautiful with the leaves and the moss growing on the trail.

The trees take no notice of the calendar, it looks as though autumn has arrived.

Along the bike trail you see sign posts of villages that used to be and even the remnants of previous inhabitants. If only the trees could speak, to tell of the past they have witnessed.

Part of an old foundation.

We sat and had our picnic here at Drake Well near the station. We just missed the train but could hear the whistle blowing.

I love this old brick house that now is the manager's home. I especially love the flower bed surrounding it.

On the return trip we spotted these two lovelies eating apples from trees that I am sure Johnny Appleseed planted.

They seem to be just as curious about us, as we were about them.

We finally did catch a glimpse of the Drake Well "Express" as it meandered through the forest. If you click on the picture you can see how clear the water is and the stones beneath the surface.

Lovely old railroad bridge...we are almost back to the beginning of the trail.

I hope you enjoyed the ride as much as we did, sans the sore seat!

WIP's, FO's and Frog's...

2010-09-16T15:42:00.000-04:00

The dress above was from a pattern designed by Debbie Bliss, called Flower Frock. I have the body finished and sewn together, but am still in the process of making the flowers that surrounds the waist. This is for my Sis's Gwen impending arrival of little Maddie.

The crib blanket above was made from the pattern Building Blocks by Debbie Macomber in the Shop on Blossom street book. The hippo was from Itsy Bitsy Toys by Susan B Anderson. my first attempt at knitting a toy and I think he turned out rather cute!

The next baby items I make will be going into a hope chest for my future grand children. If I learned anything from making the above was I enjoy my knitting better when I don't have a deadline!

Now this one is for my own pleasure. I loved the yarn the pattern too! It is newly on the needles so I don't have a picture of it as yet but can show you the yarn and the pattern...

I am using the Bodega Bay (third on the bottom), to make this...

The yarn is a dream to work with, it is so soft it just glides through my fingers and over the needles! Awwww so much yarn and so little time...

Have a great day!

Nope not waking up, not going outside!

2010-09-16T15:26:00.000-04:00

It's raining today. So the pups took a vote and decided this was a good time to rest up.

Because Saturday is ROADTRIP!

We will be visiting with Tim for a week!

While DH and Tim are off fishing, me and the hounds will be visiting this dog park, Ogden Dog Park and Fort Fisher to explore the beach.

Happy DOT's!

DOT Post-Slobberfest 2010

2010-08-12T22:20:00.000-04:00

One of the events the pups and I attended this year was Slobberfest 2010. It was held in July, but this is the first opportunity I have really had to post about it...it really has been an eventful summer!

The pups, DH, and a friend Jackie G had a wonderful time at the event. There were over 200 bassets in attendance according to the online newspaper article.

We were going to enter Sampson in the Fastest Responding to Owners Call but at the beginning of the week he was having trouble with his hip again.

To give you a smile or two here are some of the photos...

my first time to see a real live Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen and I believe the first to attend this event...

all ages were having fun, and have you ever seen a basset who refused to have their bumm scratched? I didn't think so!

This one was quite a character, no she is NOT begging, she is trying to see over the crowds!

I am not kidding! This was the line to the registration table...

We met up with some old friends...

This little girl was very much a lady through the whole event. Sweet as pie, mild mannered, just look at her expression! She was also one of the original Droopy Dozen to be rescued and adopted, I love happy ever after stories, don't you???

This was one of the youngest attendees. I believe he was 10 weeks old, just full of vinegar! He kept chewing on Sampson's ears and Sampson didn't mind a bit!

This one didn't win the price for best costume but she should have won an award for patience! I watched while her owner put on the false eyelashes and yes, actual lipstick! The rest of her costume was a tutu. Bless her heart!

Who wouldn't want her as a present!

This one was Jimmy Barkett, I loved him!

I loved the coloring of this guy and his costume complete with a ball and chain...

No HoneyDew and Sampson did not dress up for the costume contest. The T-shirts were to deflect the sun and had cooling packs in the flowered/butterflied pockets. Gifts from "Grandma" so they wouldn't overheat! Sending her slobber kisses!!!

Happy Dot's!

My heart smiled today...

2010-08-10T22:30:00.000-04:00

You know those small insignificant moments, that really mean nothing to anyone else, but your heart is joyful?

Like...

A beautiful blue sky...

Tomatoes growing on the vine...

A rooster crowing and hens scratching...

Fresh washed laundary hanging out in the sunshine to dry...

Loving pups who are sincerely interested in your every move...

A single perfect rose bloom with a lovely old fashioned rose scent...

The love of your life relaxing in his easy chair...

I also have enjoyed today...

*my daily chat with my mom

*phone calls from my boys

*hearing my oldest brother~n~law well enough to scold his "baby brother" to take care of his health

and a suprise dinner out...

Thank you Lord for these many blessings you have granted me today.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day...

2010-06-12T09:09:00.001-04:00

at least that is what I have been told. I know what I was hungry for, after the aroma of these beauties have filled my house since yesterday...

So for breakfast; strawberries, whipped cream and a pot of English Breakfast Tea.

Looks yummy doesn't it! Would you like to try some?

Very sweet and juicy!

Sampson: "I would like some!"

Dew: "Are you going to eat it all yourself?"

Me: "Why yes I am!"

BTW, the last time I had shared my breakfast with you, you might remember this or this. But look who has come out of their shells and decided to be social! Aren't they cute? Still little fluff balls!

As I was finishing my breakfast, my neighbor Kathi Z called and asked if this little guy could come visit and feed the chickens.

As you can see he was thoroughly enjoying himself. Especially when he got to find an egg which he carried back to Grammies for his breakfast! I love that smile!

In other news, today is Knit in Public Day, with events being held all over and in our area at Presque Isle park, Grove City Park, and here in Franklin on the greens of the Library. Hopefully I will have some pictures later to show everyone.

Of course when I get home, I have to get all those strawberries taken care of too! How are you spending your day?

On the nature trail...

2010-06-03T13:41:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday evening, as the temps where in the 80's, I took the pups on one of the nature trails at Two Mile Run Park. The pictures below are on the way back.

Sampson rolling in the sweet smelling grass. Dew panting but wanting to be closer to me...or the camera...she can be a real ham sometimes!

Sampson says it is his turn for a close up..."wait! I need to get closer!"

Can you find the tails?

Happy DOT's!

Things are blooming around here...

2010-06-02T11:19:00.000-04:00

Wonderful Sunday...

2010-05-25T14:21:00.001-04:00

Kerry and I woke up early on Sunday morning and took the dogs to the bike trail for an early morning snuffle before the dew was even off the ground.

We came across another old gent out for his morning stroll...

we got his attention rather quickly and although we introduced ourselves,

he was rather "snappish" and preferred to continue on his way without our company!

I also met this little lady sunning herself. She was camoflaged obviously well as both dogs and Kerry walked right past without ever seeing her!

After our stroll we returned home to have tea and toast on the front porch.

Where we were treated to a special song by this catbird who is nesting in a nearby forcythia bush.

I have been spotting a pair of Bluebirds in our yard for the last few weeks, but could not tell where they were nesting. I saw them again, and determined right after breakfast I would see if I could find their nesting location and get a couple of pictures of them. As I was bracing my camera against an old tree (that had been left in the side yard to nail bird houses to no less) to steady the zoom to photograph the male blue bird in a nearby oak tree, imagine my great suprise when the female flew out of one of the holes next to my ear!

So I did find the nesting site by accident! In the below picture you can see the female grooming herself in the Oak tree as the male lifted off just as I clicked the picture. He looks like a blurry blue batman but the color of his feathers sure come through!

Here the female is coming back to the nest while I am trying to stay perfectly still behind our garage.

I don't think I have hidden very well as she is keeping her eye on me!

I decided to leave her in peace and go do some knitting on the front porch. and I figured that was enough bird watching for the day anyway. Time to get my tea cozy finished like the one that I had made for my mother.

Who knew that dogs would be so interested in knitting? Do you know what it is like to knit with multiple sets of eyes watching you all the while? In fact, I kind of have the feeling that there are more then just the two sets of eyes that I can see on the porch!

HoneyDew must feel it to, because she looks away from me to see who else is here...

There it is! A Robin in the lilac beside the porch!

What? Don't see her?

I told her I was sure I could learn a thing or two about knitting from her since she could knit her whole summer home, that is Extreme Knitting at it's best!

Here is my finished knitted product. I adapted the neck on this one after seeing it fit on my mom's Brown Betty, that the pattern was a little too high about the neck.

I love relaxing Sundays! Tea anyone?

Poof ...what happened to them???

2010-05-20T17:02:00.001-04:00

Yep, it's finally shedding season in PA. But don't worry the pups are still around! Just making their annual contribution to their neighborhood "FFNIA" or for those of you who are not familiar with the organization the "Feathered Friends Nesting Improvment Association"! HoneyDew and Sampson heard that twigs and mud was making the nest a little bit hard on some of their friends naked offspring, so they thought they would do their part to make the nests a little softer! Afterwards they thought they would take a little siesta on the front porch and enjoy the sunshine...

Happy DOT's,

HoneyDew, Sampson and Tina too.

Good Times!

2010-05-03T23:24:00.002-04:00

I really have to share some of the good times that I have had lately. Last Friday, Elise (my future DIL) and I had a girls day out together and decided to go to the Erie Peninsula for the day and then grab a bite to eat. Dogs and camera's came along also (more about the dogs will be posted on Thursday). It was absolutely gorgeous that day with temps around 83* it almost felt like summer!

We got some fantastic shots, some of which was posted in my previous post. But here are a few more...

Beautiful wild swans swimming the inlet.

A wonderful view of Lake Erie.

Elise modeling in front of the Erie Lighthouse.

Lovely view of the Erie Lighthouse.

As Elise and I were taking the above pictures, we noticed a couple taking turns taking pictures of each other at various points. They had left where we were a short while before us. As we started to make our way back to the car, we rounded a bend and came upon the couple in a secluded spot. The young man was down on one knee and had evidently just proposed, because in the next instance, he stood, and the young lady threw herself into his arms. Elise and I looked at each other and at the same time said, "aaaAAAWWwwwwww!"

**sigh** It was just so romantic! We tried to stay as invisible as possible so as not to interupt "their" moment but I really wanted to go over and offer our congratulations!

We topped it off our outing with a wonderful late and lengthy lunch at the Olive Garden where we were truly entertained by our waiter who was from Peru. What a terrific waiter he was, but he was an even better story teller who between hand gestures and heavily accented and at times broken English he regailed us with stories of his homeland. Even pulled up a chair and sat down beside us for a spell! Elise and I really enjoyed his company. He even provide me with this link to view a pictoral slide show that showed the diversness of this country. He missed seeing the views there and the food but likes being here too. Please take a moment to check it out. He was so courteous and hospitable even offering a bottle of water for the dogs (who were resting in the car, parked under a shade tree, with the windows open and a strong lake breeze blowing plus a water dish!)

A day like that is tough to top right?

Well Saturday night, Sunday and Monday may not have topped Friday, but it sure has ranked right up there with it! Saturday night I got a call from my mom at 10 PM, who asked what my plans were for the next few days. This wasn't our usual mode of conversation so I knew something was up as Mom lives in the south so I only get to see her once a year if that. She asked if I would like some company for a two to three weeks. Boy would I!

It just so happened that one of Mom's cousins stopped by Mom's house on Saturday (cousin K lives in Colorado) , on her way to PA to visit her husbands mother. After a 15 min discussion, it was arranged that mom would hitch a ride along with them to come and visit us! Mom said she never packed so fast! We arranged a rendezvous point on Sunday evening and brought mom home!

Today, we went to my sisters Gwen's place of work to suprise her. I called ahead and told her that I was in the area and would it be possbile for me to drop in for a visit. She said of course stop on over! Gwen came out when we pulled up, saw that someone was in the car with me, but couldn't see who it was. Now Gwen has not been able to travel down south to visit Mom , and Mom of course having a large farm, was not able to come up here either. So Gwen had not seen her in four years although they talk on the phone regularly.

I really wished I had had my camera out and ready to capture the look on my sis's face when she realized it was Mom! The suprise and disbelief combined with pure joy was a beauty to behold. Then of course she burst into tears and just sobbed holding onto Mom for dear life.

I have to admit, I had tears running down my cheek too, cause I know how pleased and how much having Mom in her arms meant to her.

Of course later she said she would have to kill me if I ever pulled a stunt like that on her again...awwww sisterly love!

Later in the day, my Aunt Rose came over to visit (she is Mom's sister) so I made a special dish for the occasion, Chicken Marsala, and oh boy did it turn out well!

Mom and I have all sorts of plans for the time that she is here! I just hope we have enough energy to fit them all in! One of the most important things on the list is that we, meaning Mom, my sis Gwen, her husband Rick and I are going to visit my sis Rachel, her husband and their children, on Wednesday in another part of the state.

I am loving this time off being able to spend time with family and friends!

Finished Knitting Projects

2010-05-01T20:45:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted in a while about some of my knitting projects so thought maybe some of you would like to see what I have been keeping myself busy with.

First up was the tea cozy I knitted for my mom that fits a 4 cup tea pot or a brown betty tea pot. I knitted it with Hemp for Knitting, made in Italy, 65% wool and 35% hemp blend and the pattern was a freebie online at Ravelry by Elizabeth Kleven. I will be making another for myself soon and here you see it modeled on my tea pot at home. My mom posted it on her blog, on her brown betty tea pot here.

Next up is the Steelers cap that I made for my eldest with Cascade 220 Black and Gold 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. Cascade Yarns also included the pattern designed by Lorna Miser with the yarn as a give away when I attended the 6th Annual Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival. He was pleased!

Now this was a fun one and my first attempt at cables, I think they turned out wonderful if I do say so myself! The pattern is Milky Mitts and fingerless gloves designed by Renae Jones and knitted up with yarn from Kollage Yarns that was made with 50% MILK (yes you read that correctly, it is not a typo) and 50% wool. I made this pair up for my youngest son's fiance who was also kind enough to model them for me!

Next is a Monmouth Cap with a pattern that was adapted from the original by Jane Bigelow for a more feminine as well as slighter smaller version . You can read more about this historical cap here (scroll clear down) as well as download the original pattern. Long story short, this type of cap has been knitted since the 17th century and originated in the Welsh town of Monmouth. The yarn was Lamb's Pride of Brown Sheep Company, made up of 85% wool and 15% Mohair, and was really a quick knit. It's going to be very cozy this winter! You can wear it with the brim up or down.

Currently on the needles are a pair of socks for a dear sis~n~law, a cap for a boy who saw me knitting the one above and asked if I could knit a hat for him as his birthday was the following day!, a lace scarf of kids silk haze that I can only work on during the daylight hours as the yarn is so fine, and a couple of baby blankets that are now on the top of the Get it finished quick! list.

Fine day for a romp...

2010-04-15T20:10:00.000-04:00

The sun was shining, the temperature climbed to 80 degrees and it was absolutely lovely. A fine day to take the dogs for a romp in through the trees at the archery club. So we loaded up the hounds, stopped by Martino's deli where I had pre-ordered subs (inspired by my sister "C") so we could have a picnic supper on the deck of the old clubhouse. Everyone must have had the same idea as we coincidently ran into our friend and neighbor as well as archery club member, who made a drive-thru at McD's!

Denny Z and hubby solving all the problems of the world.

HoneyDew "checking" for crumbs!

I have to say, I was mighty proud of Sampson today. As we were walking through the trees, his sensitive nose caught a fascinating scent on the breeze. I looked to where his nose was pointing a saw a deer frozen, staring at us as we were walking the trail. Sampson started that way to give chase and see what this new interesting animal was, but as I told him sharply NO! LEAVE IT! UH UN UH!, he turned looked at me and trotted back to my side! Whew!

Sampson posing for a picture.

Sampson thinks the old bridge is fun to run back and forth across as his nails make nice clickity click sounds across the way, Miss Mary we will be calling to schedule another pawdicure appointment!

As usual HoneyDew would like to take the path less traveled.

If only trees could talk! I wonder what this old sentinal would have to say? Look at all the character, it reminds me of an old retired army general, battle scars and all.

Almost done. HoneyDew says, "What do you mean almost?"

In other doggy news, we welcome another member to our extended doggy family, introducing Starsky, my sister Rachel's Beagle mix puppy...

We can't wait to meet you in person, little guy! Welcome to the family!

Happy DOT's you'all,

Tina, HoneyDew and Sampson too!

Some people...

2010-04-06T16:56:00.001-04:00

...never grow up!

And look! It's catching...

...as dear Hubby joins in the fun! He finally took a break from cleaning the leaves out of the back drainage ditch, you can see him at it, way in the background of the first picture, while I took a break from...

We are LOVING the spring weather!

A romp in the woods...and a birthday suprise!

2010-04-01T07:27:00.005-04:00

The woods for Bassets, can be a real obstacle course, who needs agility classes when we have this?

Up, over, or under, and around logs...

Streams to ford across....or not!!!!

Help MOM, I am slipping!!!! What are you laughing at???? It's really not that funny!!!

And then home again to snore, snore, snore.

In other news, I received a birthday gift from my brother who has gotten the artistic gene, no pun intended! Isn't he talented...

Me with my two pals! Now I will always have them with me! Thank you very much Gene! Love you lots!

Happy DOT's!

Herb Class-Session I

2010-03-31T19:25:00.000-04:00

Today I had the opportunity to attend an herb class at the Old Emlenton Mill in the quaint little town of Emlenton, PA. Here is a picture of the town today...

(picture by Ruhrfisch, and used with permission)

and the mill today...

(front)

(side)

please click on the links for additional information and historical pictures of the town and Mill.
I love the old victorian houses that line the hills around the Allegheny River. As the class is a 4 part series, I hope to get some pictures of them in my next visit through.

The class itself was sponsored by AmeriCorps and instructed by Kathy Deible of The Herb Shed in Knox, PA.

Kathy was a delightful speaker and very interested in what we all were interested in taking away from the class information wise. She brought lots of informative handouts, cuttings and seeds. The next few sessions will be more hands on in the use of herbs.

We started dill and chive seeds, and a cutting of citronela geranium. I will show some pictures of their growth later, should I get lucky and they do indeed grow!

As you can see we were all interested in the topic and were taking a number of notes!

You may have noticed in the first picture one of the signs on the Old Mill was one for antigues. Well Kathie Z and I are forever finding little places like this that we obviously can't pass up, tee hee, and this is what I found...

I love the tatting and embroidery work on this set of pillow cases and I really did hear them say: "You simply must take us home, we go so well with your grandmother's quilt!" Ok, so maybe that part was really just me, lol!

The day inspired me to get out and work in my herb and flower beds, get the old cut away and see what if anything is coming up... maybe tomorrow...

Nothing like sunshine...

2010-03-24T20:49:00.003-04:00

warm temperatures and the lack of electricity to encourage one to get outside and enjoy the day. We were notified by Penelec that our electricity would be out from 9AM to 2 PM today due to upgrades. Since I couldn't really do anything in the house and because it was so nice out, I loaded up my two best pals and took my camera too.

An old covered bridge.

Look at all the green!

Someone else taking advantage of the nice weather.

Old Caboose number one...

number two...

as it appeared this caboose had been or could possibly still be occupied as evidenced by the remains of the snakeskin on the floor, (rattlesnake or blacksnake still equates to BIG snake) glad to have missed you, I am gone!

Signs of spring!

The pups wrestling and playing chase in the sunshine.

Sampson was still barking in this one but click on the photo to see the slobber wrapped up over his nose!

HoneyDews typical response when she is not ready to go home, selective hearing and passive aggressive "see if you can move me from here" stance. Click on the picture and you can see her waayyyyy back there.

I made it home in time to make pizza from scratch for dinner. This one is a "natural" pizza... no tomato sauce but rather the dough brushed with olive oil, then layered with fresh sliced vine ripened tomatoes, italian seasonings, chopped cauliflower, diced onions, sliced black olives, mushrooms, Mozzarella cheese, and on hubbys' half sausage. It was delicious and very filling. One slice filled me up!

If you would like to see additional photos of the covered bridge and abandoned cabooses please go here.

A puppy playdate...

2010-03-04T07:32:00.000-05:00

HoneyDew and Sampson are two of the most social pups I have ever met. They love to meet people and absolutely love getting together with other dogs.

Last week they were invited over to play with their friends Rex (a mixed breed who has the most beautiful ears and a plume of a tail),

Wolfe (a Yorkie)

and a new friend Lily (a beagle).

While we all had a wonderful time, HoneyDew and I think that Sampson is smitten with Lily because where ever Lily went Sampson was sure to follow:

Treat time...

Did someone say treat? I don't have to get up for it do I?

Of course not Dew, Auntie Birta will bring it to you!

They were in and out of the house all day and finally wore themselves out...

Can you find all the pups?

My apologies for the quality of the pics as five dogs in a house makes for fast moving targets and lots of blurs!

Happy DOT!

Out in the Snow again...

2010-02-27T13:24:00.000-05:00

Everyone was stir crazy today after another week of being indoors other then runs to the chicken coop or the occasional run into town. You know you are a basset slave when the dogs whine when they get close to McDonalds and so you pull in, buy them a hamburger and nothing for yourself!

So today, hubby and I decided to go to Oil Creek to get some snow pictures (like I haven't taken enough this winter!) and get the pups out for an off lead run.

Normally the park's parking lot is plowed and sometimes there is at least one trail that has had some traffic in which the snow has been packed down. Today, that was not the case so the pups were going to have to wait a little longer for their run.

I spotted this so my hubby pulled over and let me jump out and snap some pics off the bridge while he pulled on up off the road.

Yes the snow was still coming down so it was really hard to get a clear picture, but I was happy none the less.

Love the naked trunks of the Sycamore Trees in the winter.

Oil Creek didn't freeze completely this year but you can still see the ice build up along the edges.

The water is so clear you can actually see the fish. Probably why the Eagle was hanging about!

We decided to take the dogs to the archery club and let them run there;

HoneyDew was so excited she decided to take a short cut...big mistake!

Sampson was running so fast he almost looked like his feet weren't touching the ground.

HoneyDew considered another off road experience but quickly changed her mind!

Sampson is impatiently waiting for hubby to get off the path...

...just enough room and gone!

One last shot of the winter wonderland for today. Winter you are pretty, but I won't miss you when you are gone!

Urgent Update on Global Warming

2010-02-19T10:56:00.001-05:00

As a direct result of Global Warming, the polar ice cap has been melting and it appears it has finally slipped. According to officials it has taken up residence in Pennsylvania and as far south as North Carolina! We offer the following pictures as evidence of this phenomenon...

Mounds of DEEEEEP Snow

Snow well above the "official" over the knee mark.

Record Length Ice Formations.

Atypical ice formations.

Even a day at the beach is a whole new adventure, heh watch out for the polar bears!

And the abomidable snowman has even went south, we hear he is now able to surf fish!

Disclaimer**all of the above is a Global Warming joke and not to be taken seriously...hmmmmm and that really makes me wonder :-P

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

To all our friends, family, and blogging buddies:

Tina, HoneyDew and Sampson too!

Girls Gone Wild....over yarn that is! /AKA 6th Annual Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival

2010-02-13T19:50:00.001-05:00

So today was the first time I actually made it to the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival! Let me tell you it was great! Knitters (and crocheters) in my experience are the friendliest people no matter where they come from.

We started out at 9:00AM from Jerri's house were Kathie, Bonnie, Jerri and I met up. After a chai tea latte run from the Summer House, a must have for any successful trip (no matter how many potty breaks we have to take!) we were on our way.

Upon arriving at the festival we immediately ran into one of our mentors from the Kindred Spirits days, Jill Bigelow-Suttell of B-ewe-tiful Designs who unbeknownst to us was right in the middle of teaching a class as we gaily waved and shouted greetings, she calmly, without missing a beat, waved and smiled as we 'quickly' caught on and red faced, hastily changed direction towards the registration table. Rounding a corner we spotted the first vendor booth manned by another of our knitting mentors Jane Bigelow of Kindred Spirits and B-ewe-tiful Design. After carefully looking around to make sure we didn't make the same mistake twice, there were greetings and hugs all around. It was beginning to look like a Kindred Spirits reunion! And it didn't end there, when we made it to the registration table who do we find but Sue Spencer! Again greetings and hugs all around, whew what fun and the day is just getting started!

Finally we get our coats checked in and we are ready to SHOP!

Into the fray we went and let me tell you the place was packed! Vendors, shoppers, demonstrators, facilitators, books, kneedles, any type of yarn you can imagine, spinners, weavers, buttons, knit pots, stitch markers, patterns galore, a live angora rabbit (sooooo cute!) on and on. It was almost overwhelming...almost!

I think next year I will make a list of which projects I am planning on making, then the list of yarns, texture, weight, and amount of skeins needed. That would be the smart way to do it. But as this was my first trip I think I did ok, next year though, I will do BETTER!

This trip was such a great time because although I started out with 3 friends, we were able to connect with my friend Jean and three of her friends, Mary Ellen, Tristina and Lori. I also ran into another friend from Pittsburgh Truth T. and her friend, so in the process made four more friends! You see how this grows?!

After ~~we were wore out and shopped till we dropped,~~ our shopping was done the eight of us made plans to go to lunch at Olive Garden. I don't know about you but I simply love their soup, salad, and bread sticks 'all you can eat' deal. I had the chicken and gnocci soup...

Oh and DESSERT! I believe someone called mine "death by chocolate" but actually it is a chocolate torte, all I can say is ummmmmmmmmmm, and let me unsnap my jeans!

Decadent!

Ok, now wipe the drool off your mouth as I can't have you getting it on my yarn,and I will show you my new additions to my stash...and I did exercise some restraint ...

First the Black and Gold Yarn and pattern were freebies, because I had a "golden ticket" that I submitted at the Cascade Yarn booth, (I felt abit like Charlie at the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory!), the lavender colored yarn is for someone that is expecting a baby and if she doesn't have a girl it is going into my grandchildren hope chest (and yes I do have one!), the turquoise is "milk yarn", it is actually made from a by product of pasturizing milk! What will they come up with next! The picture below of the hand mitts with the cabling is what I am hoping to create with that particular yarn, wish me luck, as to date I have not done cables! I have taken a brave step or am deluding myself...it remains to be seen...

*The only thing that is not pictured here is the stitch markers that I have gotten for a friend.

But at the end of the day this is what the trip was all about...

Great Friends!

Help, Help, we are snowed in!

2010-02-10T17:19:00.000-05:00

No, that was not me. That was the squawks being heard from 100 Cackle Way. But not too fear, after DH got the path cleared again with the snow blower, BHR (basset hound rescue) was on the way!

Of course there was the sniff stops along the way!

"Well it certainly took you long enough!" cackled Miss Persnickity.

"Here now, no shoving! Plenty for everyone!" Says Sir Cockothewalk.

For myself I rather like this view of the chicken coop in the winter time...

...the one from inside the house!

Definitely enjoying the weather from here! And as you can see my car hasn't moved all day. It is the white mound in front of DH blue car...

I did have one reminder that spring would be coming. Some fresh cut herbs from a friends kitchen herb garden.

It has also been an ideal time to knit. I have been having a try at some lace work and so far these small projects have turned out ok...

After I finish a certain project that I can't show a picture of, I am going to tackle a lace scarf that is made from Kidsilk Haze Mohair. It's a wonderfully fine yarn. If it turns out I will post pics, if not, well I'll never mention it again, lol :-P

Basset Snuggles...

2010-02-04T07:36:00.000-05:00

Look at this sweet face!

Momma just loves her little girl especially when it is snuggle time. All that loose skin, soft ears, velvety fur, what's not to love?

Sampson loves to snuggle too, especially when his Dad has just gotten up to go to work, he jumps up, goes under the covers, then comes back up to the top so his head is on Dad's pillow!

You know he is eating this up!

Happy DOT's,

Tina, HoneyDew and Sampson too!

A new style...

2010-02-03T19:36:00.000-05:00

Today, I had had it. I was done with it. Couldn't do anything with it anyway so it was time for it to go! As I have been known to take scissors to it myself (and with drastic results), It was kindly suggested that I make an appointment and go, don't delay, run even!

I am fortunate to have a NIL who is a hair stylist, that was nice enough to squeeze me in today. I took out several pictures that I thought might work but left it up to her as to which cut. The cut she gave me can be just wash, scrunch, and go (I have curly hair so less messing the better!) or I can straighten and "wisp it up". She decided to style it straight and show me how to do it:

Yes folks, my hair is really that silver, and you thought I was kidding about my boys giving me gray hairs!

So whatcha think? Better then me hacking on it right?!

What's for Dinner...

2010-02-02T06:37:00.001-05:00

One of my goals for this year is to try one new recipe a week. I have been managing to do this but I thought it might be something others would want to try too. So I thought I would start posting pictures of what I made then if anyone is interested I can send the recipe to them to try. Just leave a comment requesting the recipe!

Last night I made Chicken with Kale. It is supposed to have a base of couscous or polenta, as I did not have any I substituted rice. (*According to WW this is 6 points a serving. Don't let this fact scary you off, it is quite tasty!)

My DH is not a person big on veggies, he is more of a meat and potatoes sort of guy, but he liked this tasty dish and even helped himself to seconds! This will be one that I keep and make again.

Still Snowy and Cold...

2010-02-01T08:41:00.000-05:00

but handknit wool socks keep these toes nice and toasty!

Uh-huh...

2010-01-21T19:23:00.000-05:00

It was another cold lazy day around here for this DOT Post.

The pups have been sneaking upstairs and taking a turn on the bed. We think it is the electric blanket that is attracting them! They have been great just looking forward to smaller snow drifts and slightly warmer weather! We have gotten out for walks but not long hikes or off lead walks as the snow has been pretty deep in the woods yet.

In other news, I haven't been sleeping real well, last night however after this...

and some of this...

which resulted in this...

and a good night's sleep!

I am working on it's mate tonight. I don't think I will have quite as much sleep as my youngest is back on his way to college tonight. (I keep trying to get him to travel during normal hours but no he thinks the gray in my hair is attractive!)

Suprises come in many forms...

2010-01-20T10:23:00.002-05:00

I love suprises! Well most of the time...as long as they are good suprises and not unpleasant ones (I have had enough of them, but haven't we all!).

Yesterday I received a surpise package in the mail from my littlest sis:

...and can I say it is absolutely wonderful! A "Words to Woof" by daily calendar that has dog tips, "thoughts", pictures with funny captions, a journal and a pen! I will enjoy this in the upcoming year and I admit I did peek ahead to see what some of the upcoming dates had on them!

A big Thank you Sis, and {{Hugs}}, I will be using them for sure!

After the package arrived, it seemed to stir some creative juices in me and spurred me to action to complete some errands that I had been putting off. So I made my list and headed off to town.

~~Feed the chickens~~
~~Feed the fish~~
~~Feed the dogs~~
~~Gas up the car~~
~~Grocery store~~
~~Oil change in car~~
~~Joannes' Fabric Store~~
~~Make dinner~~
~~take pictures for blog~~
~~Knitting Group~~

One of my stops was to Joanne's Fabrics from which I had a gift card that I received at Christmas. On my list of goals was to start sewing again and inspired by GMarie as well as my mom, this is what I purchased:

Sewing machine oil (it hasn't been used in a while so figured better make sure it is cleaned and oiled up), scissors a four pack that had each kind I may need in various sizes, and two patterns that have multisizes so that if I hit another of my goals I can still use the patterns!

And while I was still feeling in the creative mood, I decided to make up a hearty comfort food dish for dinner that the family would (hopefully) enjoy:

...when I say creative and make up, I am not joking! No recipe just threw some stuff together that I thought might taste good. Chicken, noodles, sauteed and chopped carrots, celery, onion, parsley, tarragon, some cream of chicken soup for the sauce, then crushed crackers and cheddar cheese for a topper and into the oven it went.

It was yummy and was a hit with the family!

Then it was over to visit with a friend (and help her with her dinner as she has been incapcitated with a broken hip/leg) for a couple of hours.

And lastly on to knitting group! J had gotten in some really cool knitting books, so we all spent time drooling over Rowan, Vogue and French Girl Knits. We did get soommme knitting done!

What a fun day! Can hardly wait to see what today brings.

I miss my mom's blogs...

2010-01-08T09:54:00.000-05:00

We talk on the phone quite a bit. But she lives out of state so I don't get much chance to see her. So when she was posting and I would read her post, it was like walking up onto the front porch, knocking on the door and being invited in for a cup of tea!

Her posts just always made me feel like I was coming home although it was not the home that I had grown up in. She was just a click away, anytime of the day or night...

So just wanted to say how much I missed that instant access, her insights, her pictures, her thoughts, really just the view of her world out her window.

I love you mom!

Let's Get the Pawti started!!!!!

2009-12-31T16:42:00.000-05:00

Look Mom, we are all dressed for the New Year's Eve Celebrations! Are we going to a party??? Where's the yummy noms?

I think I smell the treats in the dining room, let's go check it out!

"Well as I am a pawti animal I am planning on staying up all night so I am going to pace myself. I'll even be able to see the ball drop in Time Square!"

Honey Dew and Sampson hope all our Dogs on Thursday buddies have a Happy New Year!

Snow Daze...

2009-12-29T10:04:00.000-05:00

Please click on the pictures for a better look! Everyone had fun "playing" in the snow!