OK, so I have to deliver the finished quilt TOMORROW for the Marin Quilt and Needle Arts Show. The good news is that in my absence on the blog I have managed to finish the quilt, however I still have to attach the hanging sleeve and baste on my entry number. It shouldn't take that long, but all of this work on the quilt has prevented me from making a major contribution to this blog.
I have a whole heap of stuff to share with you. I've been on a yarn rampage since I have a bunch of christmas presents to make and fall is coming soon and I have a new scarf project that I've been dying to start. I've already taken the photos I just need to get them on here...
Oh and secret pal ends this week and I have to send out my last package. I also have a special package for Cecile, my sp4 pal, which I am also trying to finish up.
pictures soon,
GG
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Yum.
Usually I start off the post with a snappy title, but today I can't figure out a title for the life of me. I clear my head and it remains entirely blank. Usually something speaks to me in the silence, but nothing. Maybe it's because this has been a crazy week. Maybe its because I'm still getting a cold, or perhaps more likely we have lost our way in the land of blog.
Remember the early days of the blog where I would post anything I wanted, personal, political, magical? Nowadays I feel guilty if my post deviates too far from what's considered crafty. For instance I would like to post some food-related content, but some of my knitting friends think that should be relegated to a separate blog, but can't cooking be considered a craft too? I'm not just whipping up a box of macaroni and cheese, when I cook, I really take everything I've learned and put it into food. I make my own creations, mostly good comfort food.
I know food as comfort is a taboo subject these days since we're not supposed to be filling the void in our lives with food, but cooking solidly good food with fresh ingrediants is as nourishing to make as it is to eat. Thus cooking to me has become a craft as much as quilting and knitting. So much so that after a cooking dinner, I rarely have the energy to work on my more "crafty" projects. Cooking is a creative endeavor that requires an emotional investment to be sucessful. Simply knowing a few techniques and a key flavors allows you to express yourself.
As you may remember I had a cold this week, which I managed to pass onto Mr. Grenadine. Mr. Grenadine hates being sick and I felt bad that he got it from me so I made him one of my chicken soups. There once was a time when I used to HATE chicken soup. In fact I still kinda do. I never order it in restaurants, I hate the canned stuff at home. Its all too salty and the chicen too stringy. I used to wonder why people liked to eat the stuff when they were sick.
But then I witnessed the joy that is roasting chicken thighs. A friend made the most delicious bbq chicken and I realized that the moistest and tastiest part of the chicken isn't in the breast, it's in the thigh. Don't get me wrong, breast is great for curries, pastas and salads, and it's a low fat protein source, but what it lacks in fat, it lacks in flavor and texture, which you need when making soup. Chicken thigh not only has enough fat and flavor, a package of 6 thighs are pretty cheap while boneless, skinless breast is as expensive as some beefsteaks. The other great thing about chicken thighs is that you can roast them in their own skins with a little salt, pepper and thyme and you don't have to add any additional fat.
funny how i'm writing about food, whilst watching Iron Chef...
Anyhoo, here is my chicken soup recipe, which I make with love to heal my husband when he has a cold.
Angela’s Chicken Soup
3 carrots
4 stalks of celery
2 small onions
2 large potatoes
1 bag frozen corn
6 chicken thighs
2 liters chicken broth
2 tbls butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash of cayenne
Dash of dried or fresh Thyme
Dash of nutmeg
Preheat oven to 400.
Put chicken thighs in oven proof baking dish, skin side up.
Flavor chicken with Salt and Pepper and thyme, no need for oil, the chicken skin provides enough fat.
Roast chicken for 45 minutes or until skin is crispy and meat is tender.
While chicken is roasting, chop all vegetables except for the corn.
Melt butter in dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in carrots, celery, and onions. Saute until onions are translucent. Add chicken broth and potatoes. Season soup with cayenne, thyme and nutmeg to taste. Let simmer over medium low heat until the chicken has cooked. Add corn.
When chicken is fully cook, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for five minutes. Cut the chicken using a fork and knife, adding it with the skin to the soup. Let simmer another 10 minutes. Serve with a fresh, crusty French bread.
Yum.
GG
Remember the early days of the blog where I would post anything I wanted, personal, political, magical? Nowadays I feel guilty if my post deviates too far from what's considered crafty. For instance I would like to post some food-related content, but some of my knitting friends think that should be relegated to a separate blog, but can't cooking be considered a craft too? I'm not just whipping up a box of macaroni and cheese, when I cook, I really take everything I've learned and put it into food. I make my own creations, mostly good comfort food.
I know food as comfort is a taboo subject these days since we're not supposed to be filling the void in our lives with food, but cooking solidly good food with fresh ingrediants is as nourishing to make as it is to eat. Thus cooking to me has become a craft as much as quilting and knitting. So much so that after a cooking dinner, I rarely have the energy to work on my more "crafty" projects. Cooking is a creative endeavor that requires an emotional investment to be sucessful. Simply knowing a few techniques and a key flavors allows you to express yourself.
As you may remember I had a cold this week, which I managed to pass onto Mr. Grenadine. Mr. Grenadine hates being sick and I felt bad that he got it from me so I made him one of my chicken soups. There once was a time when I used to HATE chicken soup. In fact I still kinda do. I never order it in restaurants, I hate the canned stuff at home. Its all too salty and the chicen too stringy. I used to wonder why people liked to eat the stuff when they were sick.
But then I witnessed the joy that is roasting chicken thighs. A friend made the most delicious bbq chicken and I realized that the moistest and tastiest part of the chicken isn't in the breast, it's in the thigh. Don't get me wrong, breast is great for curries, pastas and salads, and it's a low fat protein source, but what it lacks in fat, it lacks in flavor and texture, which you need when making soup. Chicken thigh not only has enough fat and flavor, a package of 6 thighs are pretty cheap while boneless, skinless breast is as expensive as some beefsteaks. The other great thing about chicken thighs is that you can roast them in their own skins with a little salt, pepper and thyme and you don't have to add any additional fat.
funny how i'm writing about food, whilst watching Iron Chef...
Anyhoo, here is my chicken soup recipe, which I make with love to heal my husband when he has a cold.
Angela’s Chicken Soup
3 carrots
4 stalks of celery
2 small onions
2 large potatoes
1 bag frozen corn
6 chicken thighs
2 liters chicken broth
2 tbls butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash of cayenne
Dash of dried or fresh Thyme
Dash of nutmeg
Preheat oven to 400.
Put chicken thighs in oven proof baking dish, skin side up.
Flavor chicken with Salt and Pepper and thyme, no need for oil, the chicken skin provides enough fat.
Roast chicken for 45 minutes or until skin is crispy and meat is tender.
While chicken is roasting, chop all vegetables except for the corn.
Melt butter in dutch oven over medium heat. Stir in carrots, celery, and onions. Saute until onions are translucent. Add chicken broth and potatoes. Season soup with cayenne, thyme and nutmeg to taste. Let simmer over medium low heat until the chicken has cooked. Add corn.
When chicken is fully cook, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for five minutes. Cut the chicken using a fork and knife, adding it with the skin to the soup. Let simmer another 10 minutes. Serve with a fresh, crusty French bread.
Yum.
GG
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Excuse me while I kiss the sky
Damn. I've been sick for more than four days. I caught a cold out of nowhere. It started Tuesday with a major headache and a bothersome sore back. The next morning I couldn't finish a sentence without sneezing and I went home from work at 11:30am. The fact that I went home is proof that this was a whammy of a cold b/c I'm usually a toughie when it comes to colds. I pop a couple of dayquils and my life continues as normal, but with a funny buzz. But this cold knocked me squarely off my ass. I didn't go to work for the rest of the week.
I haven't left the house since Wednesday. I've barely been able to get off the couch. Thank god for netflix. Fortunately now I'm feeling a bit better, but my voice sounds like I've been smoking for fifty years and I'm still tired.
On a lighter note, I did receive a package from my secret pal. She sent me some handmade notecards, nifty paper and two skeins of variegated Cascade 220. Beautiful beautiful beautiful. I'm going to make a scarf out of it from Scarf Style. Wouldn't that be noice...
Anyway I'm too tired to think of anything else to write.
La Grenadine
I haven't left the house since Wednesday. I've barely been able to get off the couch. Thank god for netflix. Fortunately now I'm feeling a bit better, but my voice sounds like I've been smoking for fifty years and I'm still tired.
On a lighter note, I did receive a package from my secret pal. She sent me some handmade notecards, nifty paper and two skeins of variegated Cascade 220. Beautiful beautiful beautiful. I'm going to make a scarf out of it from Scarf Style. Wouldn't that be noice...
Anyway I'm too tired to think of anything else to write.
La Grenadine
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Life Status
OK.
You would think that I had almost forgotten my new year's resolutions.
I have learned some new french phrases:
n'importe quoi (doesn't matter, not matter what)
quoi de neuf (what's new?)
ca fait mal (that hurts)
apportez moi quelquechose (bring me something)
I have been crafting up a storm
It's looking like Luke and I will be able to spend next New Year's Eve in Australia, thereby fulfilling my lifelong dream of celebrating NYE in a foreign country.
I've hung out with my mom a bit more.
I've improved in my job.
Just remember to continually think positively....
You would think that I had almost forgotten my new year's resolutions.
I have learned some new french phrases:
n'importe quoi (doesn't matter, not matter what)
quoi de neuf (what's new?)
ca fait mal (that hurts)
apportez moi quelquechose (bring me something)
I have been crafting up a storm
It's looking like Luke and I will be able to spend next New Year's Eve in Australia, thereby fulfilling my lifelong dream of celebrating NYE in a foreign country.
I've hung out with my mom a bit more.
I've improved in my job.
Just remember to continually think positively....
Fast Times
No one ever told me how fast time would fly the older you get. I can't believe it's already August. The Mr. and I have been married for almost a year. Shock....
This summer has been more busy that I had anticipated. I didn't realize I had so many friends. I don't have time to call anybody forget about seeing anyone. Part of the problem is that its been so busy at work. There have been so many changes and it's just worn me out adjusting to everything, plus I worked part of the weekend and went out.. so not so much time for crafting, which sucks b/c I absolutely need to get this quilt done.
I guess I'm just surprised. I've made a bunch of new friends and some old ones have come out of the woodwork. Am I just antisocial? Am I using crafts to be antisocial? Its true the quilt is requiring quite a bit of my time, maybe I'll be more sociable after the quilt is finished.
Has anyone else's relationships suffered because of crafting? I've found that it's brought people together more than kept them apart. Its not the crafting, its the working... I'm still a college student at heart, wishing I could laze around between classes.
Aren't we all?
GG
This summer has been more busy that I had anticipated. I didn't realize I had so many friends. I don't have time to call anybody forget about seeing anyone. Part of the problem is that its been so busy at work. There have been so many changes and it's just worn me out adjusting to everything, plus I worked part of the weekend and went out.. so not so much time for crafting, which sucks b/c I absolutely need to get this quilt done.
I guess I'm just surprised. I've made a bunch of new friends and some old ones have come out of the woodwork. Am I just antisocial? Am I using crafts to be antisocial? Its true the quilt is requiring quite a bit of my time, maybe I'll be more sociable after the quilt is finished.
Has anyone else's relationships suffered because of crafting? I've found that it's brought people together more than kept them apart. Its not the crafting, its the working... I'm still a college student at heart, wishing I could laze around between classes.
Aren't we all?
GG
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Pottery Farm
Yes Friends...
It's that time of year again. Twice a year, I have to work the San Francisco International Gift Fair. This is heaps of fun because it's basically a big party where I see a lot of people I know and work with. We talk, we eat, we gossip and we sell product. It's a place where everybody's happy and enthusiastic. However, I worked fewer hours this season because of craziness in the office and because exerting all the energy at the show has the tendency of making me cranky during the week.
However the highlight of the day was visiting with Alex and Andrew of Alex Marshall Studios. You'll recall she does this amazing tableware. I'm a big fan and I love to support a local artist. She just rehttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifcently moved her operations to the central valley of all things, but seems to be flourishing. Anyhoo, I couldn't help but splurge and order a few more of her bowls and mugs. AND she has come out with this gorgeous ceramic cylinder that's just perfect for holding knitting needles. I'm going to have to make a button because I want Alex's pieces to be a permanent fixture on my blog.
This was a fantastic weekend, however I didn't spend any time working on the quilt. I'm beginning to wonder if I'll make it to the show...
It's that time of year again. Twice a year, I have to work the San Francisco International Gift Fair. This is heaps of fun because it's basically a big party where I see a lot of people I know and work with. We talk, we eat, we gossip and we sell product. It's a place where everybody's happy and enthusiastic. However, I worked fewer hours this season because of craziness in the office and because exerting all the energy at the show has the tendency of making me cranky during the week.
However the highlight of the day was visiting with Alex and Andrew of Alex Marshall Studios. You'll recall she does this amazing tableware. I'm a big fan and I love to support a local artist. She just rehttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifcently moved her operations to the central valley of all things, but seems to be flourishing. Anyhoo, I couldn't help but splurge and order a few more of her bowls and mugs. AND she has come out with this gorgeous ceramic cylinder that's just perfect for holding knitting needles. I'm going to have to make a button because I want Alex's pieces to be a permanent fixture on my blog.
This was a fantastic weekend, however I didn't spend any time working on the quilt. I'm beginning to wonder if I'll make it to the show...
Sunday, July 31, 2005
New Object Madness
Sigh.....
Do you hear that sound? That's the sound of me relaxing. Don't know why, but this has been the first weekend in AGES where I've done nothing but crafts all weekend long. I've barely even left the house. I feel genuinely rested for the first time in months. Considering how many crafts I've tackled, you'd think I'd be a bit tired.
Of course I've been intending to work on the quilt all weekend long. Call it procrastination, call it compulsive inspiration. I found myself hounding my leftover stash of Musuem yarn from the flower basket bag. I was never happy with the outcome of that project. It was way too wonky. So I tried it again and this time it was better. I knit this smaller version in a day and felted it at about midnight last night. Who knew that hand felting could be so satisfying? My arms are a little sore from all of the squeezing.
Yes I know it doesn't seem like I've learned much. My edges could still be a bit neater, but it will probably look better once I've sewn the flowers on. And I'm planning to sew a lining inside.
Of course never one to be happy with starting just one project, in order to fully avoid the ones I'm working on now, I've also started a snazzy scarf. Made with Berroco Gem (ooo pricey ouch) and SWTC phoenix, it's going to be a dropped stitch affair. Just casting on brough a sense of zen to my well being.
I'm also working on another crystal palace chenille flower washcloth. The first one I made grew on me so I'm making another. AND I just bought a stash of the stuff on Ebay so you can imagine there's going to be more on the horizon.
So what are we avoiding? The quilt of course, but after this post I will be attacking the quilt for the rest of the day. I can't decide which movie to watch while I'm working. I have this library of films, but I've seen them all a million times. I'm leaning towards Moulin Rouge.
Before I forget I wanted to share with you the gorgeous package I received from FRANCE from the tres tres magnifique Cecille, my SP4 secret pal. She is so sweet. I wish I lived in France so that we could hang out and make things together. She also made me this AMAZING card with a little piece of knitting on it with two little toothpicks for knitting needles. It's not in the photo b/c I have it hangint at work to remind me of my true love of knitting.
Here's what I plan to do with the yarn, hopefully I can get it to the correct gauge!:
Thank you Cecile. Tu es la plus sympatique tricoteuse du monde! J'espere qu'on va au cafe a paris un jour avec nos projets.
Au revoir mes amis et joyeux tricoter (goodbye my friends and happy knitting!)
GG
Do you hear that sound? That's the sound of me relaxing. Don't know why, but this has been the first weekend in AGES where I've done nothing but crafts all weekend long. I've barely even left the house. I feel genuinely rested for the first time in months. Considering how many crafts I've tackled, you'd think I'd be a bit tired.
Of course I've been intending to work on the quilt all weekend long. Call it procrastination, call it compulsive inspiration. I found myself hounding my leftover stash of Musuem yarn from the flower basket bag. I was never happy with the outcome of that project. It was way too wonky. So I tried it again and this time it was better. I knit this smaller version in a day and felted it at about midnight last night. Who knew that hand felting could be so satisfying? My arms are a little sore from all of the squeezing.
Yes I know it doesn't seem like I've learned much. My edges could still be a bit neater, but it will probably look better once I've sewn the flowers on. And I'm planning to sew a lining inside.
Of course never one to be happy with starting just one project, in order to fully avoid the ones I'm working on now, I've also started a snazzy scarf. Made with Berroco Gem (ooo pricey ouch) and SWTC phoenix, it's going to be a dropped stitch affair. Just casting on brough a sense of zen to my well being.
I'm also working on another crystal palace chenille flower washcloth. The first one I made grew on me so I'm making another. AND I just bought a stash of the stuff on Ebay so you can imagine there's going to be more on the horizon.
So what are we avoiding? The quilt of course, but after this post I will be attacking the quilt for the rest of the day. I can't decide which movie to watch while I'm working. I have this library of films, but I've seen them all a million times. I'm leaning towards Moulin Rouge.
Before I forget I wanted to share with you the gorgeous package I received from FRANCE from the tres tres magnifique Cecille, my SP4 secret pal. She is so sweet. I wish I lived in France so that we could hang out and make things together. She also made me this AMAZING card with a little piece of knitting on it with two little toothpicks for knitting needles. It's not in the photo b/c I have it hangint at work to remind me of my true love of knitting.
Here's what I plan to do with the yarn, hopefully I can get it to the correct gauge!:
Thank you Cecile. Tu es la plus sympatique tricoteuse du monde! J'espere qu'on va au cafe a paris un jour avec nos projets.
Au revoir mes amis et joyeux tricoter (goodbye my friends and happy knitting!)
GG
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Am I Sleeping Yet?
Ugh..
Busy Busy times.
Have you ever worked overtime and come home to find your favorite show is on?
So Graham Norton is the best thing to watch after a long day at work.
I'm so busy that I haven't even had time to take photos of the bountiful gift from my friend Cecile, please visit her blog, her craftiness will wow you and thoughtfulness will inspire you. I can't wait to share it with you. There was a fabu French magazine, some luscious cotton yarn, a fountain pen among other wonderful things. Thank you cecile, I'm so glad we've met.
On to the crafts... since I worked so late tonight I didn't get a chance to work on the quilt. We only have another month or so left until the quilt show and I still have to sew in all the little bits and sew on the binding. I'm almost done with the binding. It will be finished this weekend and hopefull all those pesky ends will be finished within two weeks. I'm just going to have to rent a heap of movies (any suggestions?) and glue my gluteus maximus to the sofa.
I've been doing some knitting, though I've limited myself to simple projects. I'm making another chenille flower washcloth to prove that I can do it correctly. I've enjoyed working with the chenille so much that I bought a stash of it on Ebay this week. I'm also figuring out how to make other shapes like hearts and stars. Suddenly I get the feeling that lots of people will be getting washcloths for Christmas.
hardy har har.
good night
GG
Busy Busy times.
Have you ever worked overtime and come home to find your favorite show is on?
So Graham Norton is the best thing to watch after a long day at work.
I'm so busy that I haven't even had time to take photos of the bountiful gift from my friend Cecile, please visit her blog, her craftiness will wow you and thoughtfulness will inspire you. I can't wait to share it with you. There was a fabu French magazine, some luscious cotton yarn, a fountain pen among other wonderful things. Thank you cecile, I'm so glad we've met.
On to the crafts... since I worked so late tonight I didn't get a chance to work on the quilt. We only have another month or so left until the quilt show and I still have to sew in all the little bits and sew on the binding. I'm almost done with the binding. It will be finished this weekend and hopefull all those pesky ends will be finished within two weeks. I'm just going to have to rent a heap of movies (any suggestions?) and glue my gluteus maximus to the sofa.
I've been doing some knitting, though I've limited myself to simple projects. I'm making another chenille flower washcloth to prove that I can do it correctly. I've enjoyed working with the chenille so much that I bought a stash of it on Ebay this week. I'm also figuring out how to make other shapes like hearts and stars. Suddenly I get the feeling that lots of people will be getting washcloths for Christmas.
hardy har har.
good night
GG
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
We pause for a commercial break
The folks at Maran Illustrated were kind enough to send me a complimentary copy of their knitting and crocheting how-to book. I wasn't expecting to like it because frankly, to me it's not very aesthetically pleasing. Don't get me wrong, the knitting and crocheting illustrations are excellent, however the use of color and the photography aren't so good. However, I will take excellent illustrated instruction over aesthetics any day.
This is the first book that showed me multiple ways to weave in ends, to make cast-ons and to increase. Anytime I have a question on a pattern this will be my go-to book. It's like a knitting bible. I would liken it to a textbook for its factual and detailed approach. Everybody's got a million pretty knitting books with lucious photos and interesting anecdotes and tasty projects, but Maran's Illustrated Guide to Knitting and Crocheting will be the book I use to figure out how to actually knit.
If you need a book to help you figure out some of those tricky knitting techniques: look no further: Maran Illustrated
Grenadine Girl
This is the first book that showed me multiple ways to weave in ends, to make cast-ons and to increase. Anytime I have a question on a pattern this will be my go-to book. It's like a knitting bible. I would liken it to a textbook for its factual and detailed approach. Everybody's got a million pretty knitting books with lucious photos and interesting anecdotes and tasty projects, but Maran's Illustrated Guide to Knitting and Crocheting will be the book I use to figure out how to actually knit.
If you need a book to help you figure out some of those tricky knitting techniques: look no further: Maran Illustrated
Grenadine Girl
Thursday, July 21, 2005
Real Retail Therapy
I have discovered a NEW LYS!!!!
For those of you who don't knit, an LYS is a Local Yarn Store and one just opened a short distance from my office. I had stopped by there while it was still in its construction stages and I was a little unsure. It was filled up with the nicest yarns, the rowans, the debbie blisses. This store had every potential of being one of those snotty yarn shops. Its in a wealthy area, there are alot of other good, but low key yarn shops in the region. However I'm totally thrilled. The manager and proprietor are enthusiastic and friendly and even invited me to knit in the store whenever I wanted. And man do they have comfy couches? I have found yarn haven!
Studio Knit
Ahhh to be writing about knitting again...
GG
For those of you who don't knit, an LYS is a Local Yarn Store and one just opened a short distance from my office. I had stopped by there while it was still in its construction stages and I was a little unsure. It was filled up with the nicest yarns, the rowans, the debbie blisses. This store had every potential of being one of those snotty yarn shops. Its in a wealthy area, there are alot of other good, but low key yarn shops in the region. However I'm totally thrilled. The manager and proprietor are enthusiastic and friendly and even invited me to knit in the store whenever I wanted. And man do they have comfy couches? I have found yarn haven!
Studio Knit
Ahhh to be writing about knitting again...
GG
Monday, July 18, 2005
Too Busy for Crafting
Sigh.
I can't really complain the weekend was very action-packed. I went to a short film screening on Friday night followed by a late night gelato run.
Saturday my brothers and cousins came for a visit and stayed the night. It was crazy with all those people in the house AND I got my Harry Potter book which I managed to read while everyone else was playing drunken Monopoly. The Harry Potter book was finished by Sunday morning, which was riveting to say the least. I can't wait for the next book and I wonder where I will be when it comes out. When the last one came out two years ago I was living in an apartment by the bay. I can't believe that was two years ago!
Aside from finishing the Harry Potter book, I also cooked waffles for my entire family, no mean feat. Then after everyone left I took off into the city (with too much traffic) to meet my friend Lija for a screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Apparently its the Harry Potter Charlie Bucket weekend. By the time I got home Sunday night I was too knackered to do anything but laze around on the couch.
Anyhoo. I liked the Charlie movie, however Johnny Depp's performance was a little too Marilyn Manson. I prefer Gene Wilder. Johnny's performance took away the humanity of Wonka and just turned him into a freak. This isn't surprising considering Tim Burton's affinity for freaks, but the story isn't about a man who doesn't fit into society. The story is about family and making Wonka an all-out freak just raises questions that Wonka's background doesn't resolve. Sadly this results in a cariacature performance. All the other performances are spot-on. I fell in love with every character despite their inherent flaws and who didn't melt for Charlie's entire family? I'm already a HUGE fan of Noah Taylor's work. He was Charlie's dad in CATCF, but was also in Shine, Almost Famous, Vanilla Sky, and Tomb Raider. Please put him in more movies. He's a solid actor and nice on the eyes. I also liked Helena Bonham Carter's work. I think she even wore fake teeth. She made a charming mum.
Anyway I was too busy to craft anything so no photos...
Grenadine Girl
I can't really complain the weekend was very action-packed. I went to a short film screening on Friday night followed by a late night gelato run.
Saturday my brothers and cousins came for a visit and stayed the night. It was crazy with all those people in the house AND I got my Harry Potter book which I managed to read while everyone else was playing drunken Monopoly. The Harry Potter book was finished by Sunday morning, which was riveting to say the least. I can't wait for the next book and I wonder where I will be when it comes out. When the last one came out two years ago I was living in an apartment by the bay. I can't believe that was two years ago!
Aside from finishing the Harry Potter book, I also cooked waffles for my entire family, no mean feat. Then after everyone left I took off into the city (with too much traffic) to meet my friend Lija for a screening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Apparently its the Harry Potter Charlie Bucket weekend. By the time I got home Sunday night I was too knackered to do anything but laze around on the couch.
Anyhoo. I liked the Charlie movie, however Johnny Depp's performance was a little too Marilyn Manson. I prefer Gene Wilder. Johnny's performance took away the humanity of Wonka and just turned him into a freak. This isn't surprising considering Tim Burton's affinity for freaks, but the story isn't about a man who doesn't fit into society. The story is about family and making Wonka an all-out freak just raises questions that Wonka's background doesn't resolve. Sadly this results in a cariacature performance. All the other performances are spot-on. I fell in love with every character despite their inherent flaws and who didn't melt for Charlie's entire family? I'm already a HUGE fan of Noah Taylor's work. He was Charlie's dad in CATCF, but was also in Shine, Almost Famous, Vanilla Sky, and Tomb Raider. Please put him in more movies. He's a solid actor and nice on the eyes. I also liked Helena Bonham Carter's work. I think she even wore fake teeth. She made a charming mum.
Anyway I was too busy to craft anything so no photos...
Grenadine Girl
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
I did it
I just mailed out my application for the Marin Needle Arts Guild Quilt Fair... now I just have to finish the quilt!
ack
GG
ack
GG
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
New View
Yay! I got a new cubical at work and I have a window!
I am absolutely shocked at all of the interesting things I see on my hohum industrial street.
I saw my friend Ren riding a bike.
I saw a three legged dog.
And I'm pleased to discover that I can see the bay from my chair.
Ahhh instant calm.
La Fille Grenadine
I am absolutely shocked at all of the interesting things I see on my hohum industrial street.
I saw my friend Ren riding a bike.
I saw a three legged dog.
And I'm pleased to discover that I can see the bay from my chair.
Ahhh instant calm.
La Fille Grenadine
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Summer Stuff
Hello Friends,
It's that time where I write a post to update my family abroad on the happenings of me and Mr. Grenadine.
We've been getting used to the cat:
We've been having high tea in the living room:
And I've finished a small knitting project: a flower shaped chenille washcloth (without a row counter, I've managed to knit too many rows in the center so it's a bit floppy) but I'm still proud of it.
Overall it's been a good summer. I took a walk around the block, found some sale fabrics at Joann's (one of my rules is that you can't say no to $3/yard fabrics) I've also been feverishly laboring over the Freckle Quilt because the Marin Quilt Fair deadline is coming up soon. I'm a little concerned b/c I'm a beginning quilter and I machined quilted it myself and with everything I make it's a little wanky. Can somebody remind me to apply for this thing because my procrastination will prevent me from entering. I don't know because if I do enter and don't get in, I'll be discouraged from quilting and I've bought so much fabric that I just can't afford to give up the habit.
Anyway happy crafting to all and to all a great night.
GG
It's that time where I write a post to update my family abroad on the happenings of me and Mr. Grenadine.
We've been getting used to the cat:
We've been having high tea in the living room:
And I've finished a small knitting project: a flower shaped chenille washcloth (without a row counter, I've managed to knit too many rows in the center so it's a bit floppy) but I'm still proud of it.
Overall it's been a good summer. I took a walk around the block, found some sale fabrics at Joann's (one of my rules is that you can't say no to $3/yard fabrics) I've also been feverishly laboring over the Freckle Quilt because the Marin Quilt Fair deadline is coming up soon. I'm a little concerned b/c I'm a beginning quilter and I machined quilted it myself and with everything I make it's a little wanky. Can somebody remind me to apply for this thing because my procrastination will prevent me from entering. I don't know because if I do enter and don't get in, I'll be discouraged from quilting and I've bought so much fabric that I just can't afford to give up the habit.
Anyway happy crafting to all and to all a great night.
GG
Thursday, July 07, 2005
London Bombings
I'm totally sick that this has happened. I don't know what to make of it. Can we stop terrorism? I don't know. This is heartbreaking. These people think they have morals? The terrorists are barbarians.
My heart goes out to Muslims who are not affliated with terrorism in any way. Their lives have also been made more difficult. My thoughts will be with Britain. Please think of them too.
Also, ignore the American Media, go to BBC. The american media doesn't know anything and they're playing COMMERCIALS between reports. This is as shocking as 911 and I'm disgusted that our media doesn't find this news as important as that.
G.G.
My heart goes out to Muslims who are not affliated with terrorism in any way. Their lives have also been made more difficult. My thoughts will be with Britain. Please think of them too.
Also, ignore the American Media, go to BBC. The american media doesn't know anything and they're playing COMMERCIALS between reports. This is as shocking as 911 and I'm disgusted that our media doesn't find this news as important as that.
G.G.
Monday, July 04, 2005
Friday, July 01, 2005
And back to the knitting
As we speak, there is a new addition coming to the GrenadineGirl Household. Yes Mr. Grenadine and I are expecting... A NEW CAT!!!
I havent had a cat in over a decade. I'm a little concerned because I'm rescuing a cat who would otherwise be needing a home. Her name is M and she's a devon rex. This is going to be interesting because Mr. Grenadine doesn't like cats so much and apparently this cat really likes humans. She likes plenty of attention and I hope that Luke and I can provide that.
Aside from that nothin much is new. I heard from my secret pal. Please think good thoughts for her, she recently lost her job. I'm hoping that good things will happen for her, because she is so creative. I mean, just look at the amazing little packages she sent me. Most of them were made by her. She took the photos, made the postcards and the custest little stitchmarkers! She has me ready to break out my bead box again.
I also have a finished project and a project in progress to show you:
Remember that afghan that I keep talking about, but I've never shown? Well, here it is, a series of garter stitch blocks that will be sewed together. I'm using Plymouth Encore Chunky, which is very soft. The blue skeins you see in the photo will provide contrasting blocks. Eventually it's going to look like a checkboard. I'm giving it away, but it's so cozy that its not going to be easy.
AND FINALLY THE KNIT ONE TANK IS FINISHED. (almost)
I just have to block it!
I havent had a cat in over a decade. I'm a little concerned because I'm rescuing a cat who would otherwise be needing a home. Her name is M and she's a devon rex. This is going to be interesting because Mr. Grenadine doesn't like cats so much and apparently this cat really likes humans. She likes plenty of attention and I hope that Luke and I can provide that.
Aside from that nothin much is new. I heard from my secret pal. Please think good thoughts for her, she recently lost her job. I'm hoping that good things will happen for her, because she is so creative. I mean, just look at the amazing little packages she sent me. Most of them were made by her. She took the photos, made the postcards and the custest little stitchmarkers! She has me ready to break out my bead box again.
I also have a finished project and a project in progress to show you:
Remember that afghan that I keep talking about, but I've never shown? Well, here it is, a series of garter stitch blocks that will be sewed together. I'm using Plymouth Encore Chunky, which is very soft. The blue skeins you see in the photo will provide contrasting blocks. Eventually it's going to look like a checkboard. I'm giving it away, but it's so cozy that its not going to be easy.
AND FINALLY THE KNIT ONE TANK IS FINISHED. (almost)
I just have to block it!
As Requested, More Photos of Me in a Wig:
More Party People
That party was just too much fun. You can tell I'm having a rowdy 4th of July weekend because I'm blogging. NOT!
Monday, June 27, 2005
Anything to put that photo lower on the blog!
It's been a productive day. I folded a month's worth of laundry, cooked a chicken curry, started seaming up the Knit 1 Tank, and I ran the dishwasher. It so doesn't take much to entertain me. It was a fun day at work. I kept getting great emails with post-party gossip. Let's just say that I wasn't the only one with a hangover on Sunday...
So there's a lot of crazy project progress in action and some interesting developments.. later this week I will post something more substantial with lots of photos of projects in progress. I still have to show everyone the loverly package my sp sent me, which I loved...
Anyway hope you're all having a good week...
Grenadine Girl
So there's a lot of crazy project progress in action and some interesting developments.. later this week I will post something more substantial with lots of photos of projects in progress. I still have to show everyone the loverly package my sp sent me, which I loved...
Anyway hope you're all having a good week...
Grenadine Girl
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Please Don't Laugh
OK, you know the part in the previous blog where I said that I looked fabulous at last night's party. Now looking at the photos I'm not sure anymore...
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