the madness of hamsters

Christmas Hour by Hour

2012-01-13T11:14:00.000+13:00

For some reason, on Christmas Day I decided to take a photo an hour - detailing my day. So, here it is - my visual diary of Christmas Day 2011.

0545: getting ready to do the dishes. *Sigh*

0645: at Kath & Muzz's, watching the chaos.

0745: breakfast time! Ham, pineapple & cheese croissants. Yummy!

0845: the Mac Juniors arrive - more present-y chaos.

0945: Santa on the fire truck - the annual fundraising run.

1045: gluten-free bread on to rise.

1145: knitting and watching Time Team I'd recorded earlier.

1245: bread done and cooling.

1345: time for a nana nap.

1445: time to roll over and nap some more.

1545: time for a quick read on the balcony, and a smoke, before getting ready.

1645: all packed and ready to go.

1745: just about present time.

1845: prepping dessert. Yum!

1945: watching the Christmas train.

2045: dessert over...

2145: time to head home.

2245: knitting with Molly on my knee, watching a doco on Star Wars I'd recorded earlier.

2345: feeding Molly, last act before bedtime.

Food fights

2012-01-11T11:27:00.003+13:00

Following on from yesterday's post...
In order to keep fitting my wardrobe, I have to watch what I eat* and how much I eat¤. I don’t recommend my diet, seriously. I have food issues. I’m not anorexic or bulimic, but I don’t really enjoy food. I resent the amount of money, time, effort and thought it takes to cook and eat – or even decide what to eat. I have much better things to do with my time and money – like knit.
I have promised my oldest sister that I will eat at least one meal a day. So, these days – workdays that is – I start with a medium-sized bowl of porridge (jumbo oats, soaked overnight) with a handful of dried berries and a sliced banana.

I eat lunch on a Thursday, a weekly ‘date’ with a co-worker. Depending on budget and inclination what I eat varies from a sandwich to a burger combo to Chinese. Some nights, if I’ve been organised and taken something out to defrost, I’ll make dinner. I’m a fan of throw together quickly, leave to cook, cooking. So, my cheats version of a risotto works (and I don’t need to have defrosted anything). Casseroles are also a winner. Oh, and Alison & Simon Holst’s ‘No Knead Pizza’. I hate doing dishes, too, so the less I make, the better.

I have one latte a work day (two on a Friday) and, if I can be bothered, a cup or two of instant coffee or tea while at work. I might drink something when I get home – tea or milo – or maybe something cold±.

Otherwise, it’s all down to 10-15 cigarettes a day. Like I said, I don’t recommend it.

*Some of my clothes have a touch of stretch in them, which does give some leeway, as it were.
¤It was definitely my diet that made me a size 14 years ago.
±My sisters tell me that I’ve always eaten much like a lion – huge amounts one day, then hardly anything for the next couple. How will I cope being away for 12 days – eating in cafes and restaurants – paid for by someone else?» Seriously, that’s when I eat. When someone else makes it – and I don’t have to pay for it.

»Well, prepaid by me, really. But it’s LIKE it’s someone else. It’s not coming out of my wallet at point of sale.

On bodies and image

2012-01-10T11:26:00.000+13:00

I'm a (NZ) size 10¿. But this doesn't stop me from having body issues, it's just that they're will hidden physically and psychologically. I’m not saying I have major issues and am a candidate for How to look good naked – I can actually look at myself in the mirror and all. But there are parts of my body I don’t like, and I concentrate on disguising.

I struggle to see myself as a size-10 – let alone an 8 or the 7 my jeans are*. I can’t see myself as skinny. Slim – just. Nearly. Skinny – never.

I think part of it is because I have breasts – in my head skinny girls don’t have breasts. At least, not naturally§.

Another thing that adds to my image of myself as not-quite-skinny is my height+. Only models and actors are skinny and tall. And, I’m not either of those. Therefore, I can’t be skinny.

I think I have an hourglass figure¤.

I’ve watched Gok’s shows, and What not to wear. According to Gok, hourglasses are THE figure designers love and are the best to dress. Maybe he could talk to the designers for the clothes I look at. Apparently, I’m long-waisted (ie long body) and most hourglasses are short-waisted. Ergo – I struggle to find clothes that fit all of my measurements at the same time.

For this reason I love hipster styles, because it means I can get trousers / skirts that fit my things (size 12ish) without gapping at my waist (size 8ish). But I always have to be aware of the dreaded muffin top. Yes, I have one. So sitting / standing straight – or slouching – ie, not sitting / standing naturally, disguises it.

My thighs are my bugbear. But I’ve learned to disguise them (mostly). Maybe I really am making more of them than they are. But it’s my image of my body. My mother didn’t believe that I had big thighs until I stripped to my underwear and showed them. You know what? They are bigger than they should be for the rest of me.

Now I’m this size, and have been for a while, I want to stay this way¶ – not least because I can’t afford a new wardrobe so soon. After more than a year, I still have to think size 10 when looking at clothes. I will pull out a size 8, a size 10 and a size 12 when trying things on». I really have to concentrate when it comes to small / medium sizing. I can’t see myself as small. I really struggle with that one.

So… why have I shared this?

To let you know that appearances aren’t everything. If you say I look good – particularly if you use the ‘skinny’ word – my internal voice is saying something else. It’s all a matter of perspective and my self-perception is skewed.

Because, you know what? I’d much rather be happy with my body, whatever size it is. And, I don’t think I ever will be.

¿Mostly, on average - I have 8s, 10s and 12s in my wardrobe, all of which mostly fit.
*Seriously. Size 7. If I’m a 7, what in-the-hell size are skinny girls?! That’s also why I shop at Jeans West, they don’t make me feel fat. Unlike another jeans shop, where a size-8 didn’t get over my foot!
§I *think* I’m a D-cup, but I’ve never been for a bra fitting in my life. There’s an underwear manufacturer’s website I visited that told me they had no underwear for my measurements.
+And don’t get me started on my height. I’m 5’ 6” (168cm) and the tallest in my family. It’s taken many years to feel confident wearing heels around my family° – and towering over them. Just when it happened, my knee gave out, limiting my heel-time. Damn it. Although, it stills feels weird looking such a long way down on my mother, when I’m in heels.

°I’m not blaming them, but the constant comments about the height made me self-conscious. And having my brother not hug me, unless I was sitting down – or he was – for a few years didn’t help. Being taller than your brothers at 13 doesn’t go down well.

¤Again, going online, a site told me I’m actually straight up-and-down, ie shapeless, because there’s not 10-inches of difference between my hips/bust measurement and my waist. There’s 8. Don’t trust the internet. These things just add to my image issues.
¶I have been a size 14, and it wasn’t a good look. At all.
»Mind you, I don’t think that’s all just my image issues – the vagrancies of sizing / style / materials doesn’t help any.

Reading resolutions

2012-01-06T11:43:00.001+13:00

I don't do New Year's resolutions... but this year I have some reading resolutions and goals...

Update my goodreads with everything I read, writing reviews as much as possible.
Write reviews for Random acts of reviewing.
Update my death & grief bibliography on librarything.
Read and review one teen book a week for the work blog.
Try and do a Top 5 list once a fortnight.

So.... that's that! Let's see how I go :D.

And a Happy New Year to you, too

2011-12-29T11:08:00.000+13:00

This has been a year of reflection and change - and of seriously cutting back on stuff I do... including updating this blog. So sorry guys!

Instead, I've focused on keeping myself together.

Yes, I've been knitting - but that is therapy and meditation. And satisfying - but only when you know your gifts are appreciated. I really do knit love and care and hugs into my pieces. And I want the recipients to feel that love. If they don't appreciate the gifts - then, off the list. Generic, shop-bought presents it will be. There's only so much of me and my time to go around.

I've also sucked at keeping my reading up-to-date. *Sigh*. Now I'm back full-time front-of-house in a library, I should really be back reading my area. Maybe, just maybe, that could be my resolution this year.

Anyway - my report card for this year is: must try harder. And I will - just in areas that actually help me, too. Because, you know what, I'm worth looking after - and I'm going to do just that. But, I will try and update this, too. For fun, and when I feel like it - I won't let it become an albatross.

Take care - and I hope you look after yourselves next year too. Sometimes we all need to be a little bit selfish.

Knitting projects update

2011-11-12T10:45:00.000+13:00

Man, I suck at updating this. Too busy actually knitting I think!. A while ago I posted my knitting hitlist. Time for an update and some pretty pictures.

Jod's present all done. And here's a photo - modelled by someone some of you know. The pattern is from Brave new knits, again.

From the book

As modelled at work.

Then there's my shrug, from Circular Knitting Redefined - doesn't look much like the original! But, I really struggled with this one. Positive there was a problem with the pattern. That could be why I didn't place in the WI comps... :(

From the book

And, I finished Kath's birthday present...

My teddy bear - which will be a Christmas present - is at Auntie Pam's having its face added. Mum did the sewing up. A joint effort!

However - I did get 2nd for my fingerless mittens and 1st for my mobile... (ok, I was the ONLY entry for the mobile - but that doesn't stop the WI judges not handing out 1st places).

My early days

2011-10-01T18:53:00.000+13:00

From the archive… a long post...

Because my mother wasn’t sure – well, no one really was – if I’d make it out of hospital, Mum kept a diary. I have it – and my Plunket book. Dealing with premature babies was difficult 40 years ago. Because of placenta previa, Mum had a caesarean section, and had been in hospital for weeks before my birth – keeping her away from her four older children (aged 10 to 15) and husband. A difficult time all around.

Anne arrived 5.35pm Friday. 4½lb in Prems. Respiratory trouble. Me in ward 8.30pm with drip and drain.
Day 1: Saturday

Quite a night. Worrying about babe. Went to see her. What a small wee bundle. Mum & Ray [my dad] and Chris [my brother] came up, said babe was much better. Will name her Anne. Such a small baby needs a small name.

Day 2: Sunday

A fit of the blues when writing to Gwen [my dad’s sister, in hospital recovering from a stroke]. Went and saw Anne, looking much better. Dad & Mum came up with flowers. Being optimistic and so am I.

Day 3: Monday

Slept well and out and about. Flowers from June and Harold [our neighbours]. They’re beautiful. [Doctor] Dempsey arrived at breakfast time. Put very well in his report and told me Anne’s much improved. [Doctor] St John came late, he’s being a nuisance in Prems, keeping an eye on her. He’s very pleased with her progress.
Mum, Marie T [not sure who she is] and Ray here this arvo. Very good. Went down early evening to see Anne. She’s got such long legs and a little bottom. I wonder what it’ll be when she’s Beth & Kath’s ages [my oldest sisters, then 14 and 15]. Her progress has improved and her hair is still dark.
Rob came [my mum’s youngest brother] and Pete from Cubs [Mum was a Cub leader, Pete was Rob’s best mate], with chocs.

Day 4: Tuesday

Slept well again and Sister said that she’s made another improvement. Yay. Home Mon yay.
Coral [my mum’s sister] came with some skin perfume. Received quite a few cards and they’re lovely. Went to see Anne and the Sister let me hold her. She’s so small but I feel much better now. Going around with a “Cheshire Smile”. Hope to go down with Ray tonight.
Ray, Kath and Ellen [the sister up from me] came up and we went to down to Prems. Made Ray come in [my dad hated hospitals!] and he was thrilled at the improvement she’s made.
Saw the father of the very sick babe. He’s looking much better and the father was thrilled as there had been no hope for him the previous night. God keep him safe.

Day 5: Wednesday

Looks like being a beautiful day.
Lunch time: I’ve been down to see her and she’s still fine. I even touched her. She’s so soft and warm. Her hair is like the softest down. She wriggled and squirmed. Sister said that that was good. They’re turned every 15mins. The more they’re stimulated the better. Anne’s in the intensive care part of Prems and when she moves from there, she’s progressed. I’ll be happy when she’s in cooling off. I don’t think I’ll be allowed to feed her before I go, but you never know.
The baby over from her is very sick and not expected to last the day. I thought he was looking much improved last night but apparently there’s something else wrong with him. Thank you God for every day of my Anne’s life.
Mum, Ray’s Mum, Helen C [a family friend] and Aunty Dolly [my dad’s aunt] came today. Mum’s made a lovely nursery basket for Anne, full of goodies. I must be having a down day as I howled over them all. The Vicar came and I’m having communion tomorrow. He’s terrific, wish he was ours. I’ll take Ray and Beth down to see Anne tomorrow night. Ray and Chris came. Oh I miss them all, I’ll be glad to get home.
Well the end of another day. Thank you Good Lord for Anne and help me make people understand how precious she is.

Day 6: Thursday

[Two of the mothers went home that day] I’ll be a bit lost now, but Mrs H is here and her little fellow is still going strong. Mrs B has had her twins, both girls, they’re lovely and fat. Mum, Beth, Moya and Lorrain {Mum can’t remember who these girls were] came this arvo. Mum gave me a flash compendium to write thank yous in, Moya bought me carnations (boy they are long), and a lovely card. Lorrain, tulips (they look as if they’re made of wax) and another lovely card. I’m feeling quite ruined. The windowsill looks lovely, all flowers and cards.
Had communion this morning. [The vicar] came down later to tell me that Mrs C has lost hers at last. I’m glad it’s all over for her. Must write to her.

Day7: Friday

Another not so good day. Just couldn’t be bothered doing anything. Went and saw Anne three times. I was allowed to hold her again tonight. Her head just fitted into my hand. She’s so soft and really quite lovely. Mum recons she looks like Beth did. Mr Hansen said that she looked a bit like me, so maybe she’s right. Mum, Gwen and Glennis [my dad’s niece] came today and I was thrilled to see them.
A young girl walked out of her today without the baby that she’d loved and fed for ten days. It’s for adoption. She said that it was her punishment for having her. What a cruel way to punish yourself for a crime that wasn’t entirely your fault. What were her parents thinking of?
Thank you Dear Lord for Anne’s first week of life. Her oxygen supply is down to 25%. It’s normal at 21%. Her chest doesn’t sink in at all now and today she had her first feed from a bottle. She gets tired so quickly that they can’t feed her that way too often. What steps forward now. Almost giant strides. I’m so thrilled and thank God every time I see her. She’s such a small, precious scrap of humanity. Well my dear, I’ll close until tomorrow. Keep fighting.

Day 8: Saturday

Rang Ray to tell him about Anne’s progress and he’s thrilled. Be up to see you tonight darling girl. Ellen’s got a hole in her head. She collected a window at school. Poor little thing, it’s not the same when Mum’s not there to help heal hurts. Went to see Anne after visiting and she’s still fine. She’s now 3lb 14oz, and 8oz loss. No wonder she looks so small and thin. I’m allowed to feed her tonight all being well. Ray and kids came up tonight, Mum & Val came up this arvo. They sort of tire you out when the hit you en masse. Fed Anne. What a small armful. She took just over ½ of her feed. That’s not bad. They had a little fellow of 1lb 3oz arrive. 26 weeks his mum was. They have a survival rate of 1 in 2000. Poor wee mite. Probably won’t be there tomorrow.

Day 9: Sunday

He wasn’t.
What a grey old day. Rain and blowy. 12noon. Have seen Anne and she’s been moved in room 10. Real progress. Next step’s a crib. Wonder how long that will take.
Sue and Coral [mum’s sisters] came up this arvo.
Hope to get down to see Anne but don’t know if I’ll be able to make it. Hope so. Ran out of reading matter and Ray’s late, hope he won’t be much longer. Getting quite weepy again. Feeling sorry for myself and that’s not good. Milk’s gone completely now and not tender any more so that’s one pain gone. It lasted exactly a week.
Well, Ray’s gone and I don’t think I’ll be going down. I should. I went down after some massive pain killers. She’d been fed and had hiccups. Poor little thing didn’t like the idea much. Still I heard her making a noise and that’s something. Goodnight precious little thing. See you tomorrow.

Day 10: Monday, Home. [It’s around this time Mum was told I’d live.]

Day 11: Tuesday. Rang Prems and 4lb 1oz.

Day 12: Wednesday. Saw her and she’s looking fine. Seems to be putting meat on her legs. Arms still skinny.

Day 13: Thursday. Rang and all’s well.

Day 14: Friday. Two weeks old. Pinched car and went to see you with Mum. You’re looking fine.

Day 15: Saturday. You’re young cousin’s arrived. Jodee Ann. Grow fast. You’re fine. 4lb 3oz and out of incubator into crib.

Day 16: Sunday. Oh you do look good in your crib. I could pinch you and bring you home now. Up to 60mls.

Day 17: Monday. All’s well. Keep it up.

Day 18: Tuesday. Went to work with Dad hoping to see you. Tomorrow.

Day 19: Wednesday.

Kath’s birthday so we all came in. Aren’t you lucky to be able to come out into the room off the nursery. Beth held you and was thrilled. So were the others as they all had a good look at you. Up to 75mls of milk. Boy you must be getting hungrier. I hope you’re growing. I even changed your pants. Hurry up home.

Day 20: Thursday. All’s well. Baby beautiful was the comment today.

3 weeks: Friday. Shawl finished. 4lb 12oz. What good progress. So keep up the good work.

Day 22: Saturday. Sister said that you’re only 4lb 6oz. Sounds more reasonable. Never mind. Keep it going.

The diary ends… so highlights from my Plunket book.

Age: 7 weeks 3 days. Weight: 6lb 4oz. Head: 13¾ inches. Chest: 12½ inches.
Milk: 20oz; water 10ozs; sugar 3 tablespoons. Orange juice ½-2 teaspoons in 2-6ozs cooled water.

Age: 8 weeks 3 days. Weight: 6lb 15oz
Large umbilical hernia. Doing well.

Age: 9 weeks 3 days. Weight: 7lb 3oz
Unsettled at times.

Age: 10 weeks 6 days. Weight: 8lb 8oz
Recent diarrhoea, treated by DR. Has seemed hungry. Milk 24 oz. Water 12 oz. Sugar 3 tablespoons.

Age: 12 weeks 6 days. Weight: 9lb 2oz. Length: 22¼ inches. Head 14½ inches. Chest: 14 inches.
Holds head well.
Milk 30oz. Water 10oz. Karitae 2½ tablespoons. 1-2 solids.

Age: 14 weeks 6 days. Weight: 10lb 1oz
Vocalises. Very contented. Not keen on solids.

Age: 16 weeks 6 days. Weight: 11lb 6oz
Been unwell, wasn’t drinking. Drinking 5 x 7oz now.

Age: 18 weeks 6 days. Weight: 12lb
Milk 34 oz. Water 6oz. Karitae 2½ tablespoons.
Weight bearing.
Having 3 hourly day feeds. Sleeping 12 hours at night.

Age: 21 weeks 6 days. Weight: 13lb 13 oz.
Half roll. 2nd triple 2nd polio – severe reaction.

Age: 25 weeks 6 days. Weight: 14lb 7oz. Length: 25 ½ inches. Head: 16¼ inches. Chest: 16 inches.
Sits short time. Rolls. Almost whole milk. Eating well.

Age: 29 weeks 6 days. Weight: 16½lb

Age: 35 weeks. Weight: 17lb
2 teeth. Convulsed with them, no fever. Content. Sits alone.

Age: 9 months. Weight: 17lb 6oz. Length: 27? inches. Head: 17 inches. Chest: 17¼ inches.
Crawls. Pulls up. Says a few words. Good appetite. 3 bottles. More variety in diet. Hearing tested.

Age: 10 months. Weight: 19lb 4oz.

Age: 1 year. Weight: 20½ lb. Length: 29½ inches. Head: 18¼ inches. Chest: 18¼ inches.
Walks round furniture. Has had rubella.

Age: 15 months. Weight: 21lb
10 teeth. Walked 14 months.

Age: 18 months. Weight: 22lb 2oz.
Poor appetite. Takes raw fruit. Sleeps well.

Age: 20 months. Weight: 23lb

Age: 2 years 3 months. Weight: 27½lb.

And that’s the end – my height and weight charts are fun, because I start off waaaay off the bottom of the charts!

The advice section is interesting, too.

ADVICE TO MOTHERS
Planning the day: Ask the Plunket nurse to help to work out a plan for the day which will enable you to care for your baby and manage the household chores. Feed baby three or four hourly during the day but arrange the last feed at night and the first in the morning to suit all concerned. Sit in a comfortable chair for nursing: relax and enjoy the feeding time.
Rest and Sleep: Make time for an afternoon rest – relax on a sofa or bed with feet up. Read, knit or have forty winks while baby is having his afternoon sleep. Adopt an early to bed policy.
Meals: Beside the main meal of the day have either fish, egg, liver, a cheese dish, bacon, ham, or some other protein for lunch or tea. Have some kind of milk pudding with fruit at dinner time and porridge and milk for breakfast is the weather is not too hot. Avoid rich fatty foods and go slow on sweets and chocolates. Drink a pint of milk daily in some for another and take a small glass of water each time you feed baby. Be generous with your allowance of fruit and vegetables.
Visitors: Discourage visitors until you have readjusted yourself to your extra responsibilities and baby is settled. An occasional call from an understanding friend or neighbour makes a welcome break which is refreshing and beneficial.
The Ex-baby: Bring him into the family picture as much as possible to help him adjust happily to a new situation.
Post-Natal Examination: Arrange for your medical check when baby is six weeks old.

ADVICE TO FATHERS
Help your wife to adhere to her daily plan. Be punctual to meals. Get to know your baby and enjoy him. Changing napkins, tucking him down, bathing him at the week-ends, and bringing him to his mother to be fed in the evening or early morning provide opportunities for you to lend a helping hand and learn about your baby.
Your co-operation with the family shopping, the washing up and other household tasks will encourage your wife and lighten her work.
When baby is settled and his mother has regained her strength, try to arrange for a baby sitter occasionally so that you can take your wife out for an evening’s entertainment.

SUGGESTED PLAN FOR BABY’S DAY
(The times suggested should be adjusted to suit the individual household)
6 a.m. Change baby, feed him and put him to sleep.
9.30 a.m. Sunbath baby when he is old enough: then bath, feed, hold out, and put to sleep outside in sheltered spot if possible, or on a balcony or verandah.
2 p.m. Change baby, feed, hold out, and put outside if possible.
4 p.m. Give fresh fruit juice. When he is older let him have a kicking period in crib or play-pen.
5-5.30 p.m. Wash face, hands and buttocks: change into night clothes. Feed, hold out and put to bed.
9-10 p.m. Change, feed, and tuck down for the night.
Sit baby up during and after feed to help him to expel wind.

Knitting hit list

2011-09-07T11:11:00.000+12:00

Getting serious now... my list of current and upcoming / planned knitting projects:

Jod's birthday present: due around 1 October. Pretty much nearly done... only about 15 rounds to go. So, not so bad, except each round contains 406 stitches. Well, it's done with love, and not much cursing, I promise!
Kath's birthday present: due around 10 October. Haven't even started. Oops! Well, it's only part of her present.
For the WI October comps: due around 20 October: shrug - hunting for a pattern; teddy bear - have a pattern, haven't started, need to find yarn; fingerless mittens - done a few, but might do another pair.
For Mum to wear at WI October: 2/3 to 3/4 done. Shouldn't take long - it's only 15 stitches a row!
Christmas presents: 7 toys; and a couple of surprises.

Should keep me busy!

Monkey moments

2011-09-01T11:55:00.000+12:00

How could you not love Monkey? I ask this a lot. And everyone seems to love her. She has an amazing personality, brought out, cherished and nurtured by her parents - and the day care staff.

She's adventurous and intrepid and independent. And she's caring and thoughtful and intelligent.

Here she is, climbing a tree. She only asked for help when she got a bit stuck because the railings had run out and she was struggling to figure out how to get higher - ie by holding onto the tree trunk.

As far as I know, she's only been in one fight at day care - and that's because the other child had pushed her best friend and made them cry.

Unusually for children her age (she turns 2 next month) she would refer to herself in photos as 'me' - rather than use her name. This is because she couldn't pronounce her name properly and so didn't until she could By the way, she can now, judging by the chanting of her name on Sunday.

And, on Sunday, she called me by name (mostly) for the first time. Oh, her dad has been trying to get her to call me by name for months, but this time - without prompting - it came out.

I can remember a couple of my great-nephews calling my by name the first time. Both times, it went something like this:
'Auntie Anne' - at which point my little heart sung - they know who I am! - and rejoiced. But, this was followed by... 'can I have...'

Did Monkey follow the pattern? Oh no, not at all. Her dad asked, 'What's this?' and Monkey replied 'dad coffee'. Then followed up with 'auntie coffee?' in a concerned tone, just in case I was missing out.

Bless.

She is a treasure. Happy nearly birthday Monkey!

Quick note!

2011-08-31T18:09:00.000+12:00

Just a quick note to say I'm still alive!
And, I'm knitting, knitting, knitting - but as it's all for presents, I have to keep quiet for a time...
Will post photos when I can.

And - I have all these opinions and ideas of what to blog about, but.... not the time to do it! One day I hope that the thoughts and time coalesce and harmonise.

Knitting projects #2

2011-08-24T13:42:00.001+12:00

Oops - herewith, the image from the pattern of the top I posted about earlier.

Knitting projects

2011-08-23T13:02:00.000+12:00

Gosh I suck at updating this! Anyway - here's some of the projects I've completed lately - images from the pattern, followed by what I did with it.

These are all from: Welcoming home baby by Tricia Drake.

Didn't feel like a pom-pom, but felt
it needed something... I-cord it is then.

The Queen Bead has promised to send me a photo of
Baby Bead inside its pod.

This is now Mum's driving blanket. Keeps her knees warm,
but doesn't get tangled in the peddles.

Doctor Who thoughts

2011-08-11T11:45:00.001+12:00

Thanks to Doctor Who on facebook, I found this series of articles on how to dress like the various incarnations. In, and of, itself, this is fun! But... as you head on through the Doctors, the insight into their characters is fascinating.

So, make a start... find out how to dress like the First Doctor.
There's a bit of an oops after the Sixth Doctor... the post just says 'coming soon'... so here you go: Seventh Doctor.
Or, you could be boring and read in reverse order from this link.

PS You HAVE to watch the vid at the end of How to Dress like the Fifth Doctor.

Knitting update

2011-08-04T11:12:00.000+12:00

I've been a bit busy lately... what with knitting and all...

I've had a break from socks - apart from an itty-bitty pair for Baby Bead. I've done beanies, fingerless mittens, started on a scarf for my mummy.... but what has occupied my knitting time (and dishes, and cooking, and tidying, and...) has been this!

The pattern is from Brave new knits. Best thing - no seams! (Well, only one itty-one - the lace panel on the neckline - and no one can tell. My sewing is getting better.)
PS the brooch I'm wearing as a choker was a 21st present from my grandmother. She'd bought it in the 70s in London.

Stereotypes and shopping

2011-07-08T13:46:00.001+12:00

A couple of months ago - on Fair Go - a nine-year-old perfectly expressed how I feel about clothes and jewellery. Check out the video here.
Everything is pink and purple in girl-land - and hearts and ruffles.
Like young Shannon, I'm not a pink and purple and hearts and ruffles type of gal. I have no problem with those that are.
At least as a grown-up, I have more choice in clothes - black, really. Maybe some red or purple...
But jewellery... hmmmm... And decorations...
I don't do hearts. I don't do crosses. (I'm not a Christian, so why should I? Just like I don't do ankhs or hamsa. These are not my beliefs, but they are others. And I respect them, and show that by not wearing them as an accessory.)
And that is why I have spent four days dropping into a shop, trying to find jewellery I can cope with.
The xx-genes in human females does not automatically indicate a preference for pink / purple / hearts / frills / lace / ruffles.
The xy-genes in human males does not automatically indicate a preference for navy / grey / cards / sport / fishing / argyle patterned socks.
So, here I am, struggling to express individuality when forced into boxes.
And you wonder why I knit, and make my own jewellery.

Public personas

2011-07-07T20:24:00.000+12:00

What masks do you wear? Where, and with whom, are you truly yourself?
If that is while I'm alone, then the 'real' me seems to be in 'sleep' mode - in low-power mode, but capable of restarting when needed.
I'm not an extrovert (surprised? Probably not), but I can spend a whole day interacting with people - workmates and customers. So, when I get home, I need downtime. It's tiring wearing that public mask for hours on end.
What about online? Here - on my blog - I share a mix of professional and personal info. On facebook, it's more personal, and family-related, really. Twitter - again a mix - but there I'm more like a stalker, than a participant. On linkedin, strictly professional. At all times I'm aware that people I know from my different worlds are reading and, possibly, passing on my public thoughts. So, although I share stories from my personal life online, I am careful how and what it is. Because you never know what happens. What goes online, stays online.
At work I can be a bit manic, a bit of a flirt (depending on the audience and situation, of course) - a performer as needed. Watching the surprise on my sister's face one night when I slipped into work mode made me realise that most of my family don't know that person - that Annie. [We were at a fundraiser, and there to be customers, but our family were swamped, so I helped out].
So many people know that work-Annie. And/or the Storylines-Annie.
Within the family, through strength of numbers (and growing) I'm known mainly as Auntie Anne - or Auntie Annie.
It's rare to find someone who knows Anne. And I sometimes think she is vanishing. And I miss her. I don't really know her these days, if I ever did.
Then there's the online me - often masked as madhamster. Sometimes angry-mad. Sometimes crazy-mad. A bit forgetful. And mad-keen on family. Oh, and knitting.
All this made me think of Alice Cooper (lately I've been doing that a bit. Not sure why - it began before seeing him in Top Gear out-takes). In an interview I saw/read/heard years ago, he talked about his concerts. How he knew what he was doing. But when Alice came on stage - he had no idea. Another interview, he talked about his kids saying things like 'Dad. Dad. Alice is on tv.'
So, in his head, in his behaviour, and within his family, Alice is a very distinct separate persona. A mask - a performance - that he dons as needed.
So - where does this leave me? Trying to find myself within the masks and faces I wear for the sake of others.
Welcome. Welcome to my online mask - Ms Mad Hamster.
What mask are you wearing?

Foibles of family trees

2011-07-03T23:36:00.009+12:00

What is your definition of family? What does family mean to you?

A couple of years ago, I posted about a family tree online product we were asked to check out - and I asked some questions. These questions still linger. [Don't go looking for the tree - I've since removed it. See also my discussion about embedded families].

As a school project, I was sometimes asked to make up a family tree. They usually got a streamlined version. I just focused on the less-complicated immediate family bit.

But even then there were things left out.

And that's sad. There are people who have left holes in our hearts, who don't seem to 'fit' on traditional family trees.

You can add in a stillbirth, for example. But what about those babies that didn't make it full term? The ones that were named, and whose arrival was much anticipated. Or the miscarried / aborted ones who left holes and influenced people's lives - although their sex and names were never known. But, each year around what should/might have been their birthday, their mothers grieve and remember.

What about adoption? We're fortunate that our mother was so open, so we knew there was a half-brother out there - and his birthday - but until I was 15, we didn't know him. Another question: how does he and his children/grandchildren deal with their family tree? Do they just focus on the legal/adopted side and ignore the biological (well, what is known of it).

Then there's other people - those who have no biological link but who are so much a part of your family that there has to be something you can do to show that.

Some of you know about Monkey and her parents. How can I represent this gorgeous little girl I consider a niece? Oh yes, she is family. When her future arrival was announced my then 14-year-old niece said 'yay! I won't be the youngest any more'. She is our niece. Her dad is part of our family. He is an uncle. A brother. But in scientific fact? There is no connection. Emotionally, that is a different story. The reality. He's my ex. My dad was his best friend and mentor. He was the one who started us the journey to buy Mum and Dad's place up north - because he didn't want Grandad (my dad) left up there alone. At formal events (weddings, civil services) he and his partner and Monkey are in the family photos.

In a couple of generations - when we write up our family tree - their influence and entanglement within my family will not be represented.

I ask again - what is your definition of family? Who would be missing from a traditional family tree of your family?

Knitting thoughts

2011-06-29T14:39:00.001+12:00

We live in a moment of history where change is so speeded up that we begin to see the present only when it is already disappearing. ~ R. D. Laing.

We live in a world of machines. Our world moves faster, bigger, and better with every moment. Machines replace humans and often do our jobs better.
When you are knitting socks and sweaters and scarves, you aren't just knitting. You are assigning a value to human effort. You are holding back time. You are preserving the simple unchanging act of handwork.

I will remember that knitting is more meaningful than it seems.

The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work. ~ Emile Zola.

Really, there are only two kinds of people who are going to understand about hand-knit socks: those who wear them and know the singular joy of perfect socks, and the knitters who have the pleasure of giving that exquisite experience. Everybody else thinks you must be a special kind of crazy to spend so much time making something that you could buy for $1.99 at the store.

The only way to educate the masses is to knit for them.

From: At knit's end: meditations for women who knit too much by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee.

Thank you Yarn Harlot for expressing this so well.

Fandom

2011-06-08T08:24:00.002+12:00

More Doctor Who-ness

see more Lol Celebs

Thoughts for a Thursday... fandom!

2011-05-26T10:41:00.000+12:00

To celebrate the 2nd episode of the latest Doctor Who series... some fandom...

see more Lol Celebs

see more Lol Celebs

see more Lol Celebs

see more Lol Celebs

see more Lol Celebs

see more Lol Celebs
PS there is an official game coming out.

Thursday for a Thurday: techno taming

2011-05-19T18:13:00.001+12:00

Ever feel like technology is taking over your life?
Most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, I'm sitting in front a computer for about 10 hours a day at work. Doing techie stuff. You know, email, internet stuff - research, searching, chat, updating webpages - working on documents and spreadsheets... Pretty much all work-related.
Thursdays - about six hours or so. Friday and Saturday, not so much. Also explains why I spend so much time of Saturday out from the workroom and from behind the desk.
This also explains why I'm a sporadic facebooker. And why I forget I have a brand-new twitter account.
And... why I only rarely actually plug-in-and-turn-on my broadband at home.
After hours at work spent in front of a screen - when I'm at home, I'd rather have the screen a few feet away - a TV screen, where I'm not expected to do anything, up to and including paying attention. And I'll knit.... or read. Or both at the same time.
I'm not that much of a techno-nut to enjoy being hooked in all the time.
And, that's my excuse for not updating my blog so much.
And the blogs I follow tend to be the ones that email me. The whole logging-on to yet ANOTHER account, or visiting ANOTHER site does my head in. Just email me any updates, damn it. Facebook - I remember to visit, because it emails me when I'm tagged.
Mea culpa.

Thoughts for a Thursday... mothers

2011-05-06T08:03:00.000+12:00

Belated thoughts. I wrote this on Thursday, but computer access limited until now...

I've written about my mum and my nanas before. With Mother's day coming up, I wondered what more I had to say. Well, a lot really, but not all of it appropriate to a public forum. Instead, I thought about non-mothers - or, un-mothers, as my oldest sister and I call ourselves (and we sometimes give each other Happy Un-Mother's Day presents).

I think mothers (and fathers) are wonderful. I think the decision to have children, to nurture them - body & soul, mind & spirit - so they become amazing human beings, is a joyous thing.

But, I also think there is too much pressure and expectation to join this band.

Motherhood wasn't an option for me, for reasons that you don't need to know. They are my reasons.

Why do those of us without children - for whatever reasons - are made to feel somehow lesser beings?

Parenthood should be a choice, made with both emotion and logic. But it should not be a matter of public debate and discussion, particularly if you have not gone down that route.

I believe you can have a happy and fulfilled life with children. I believe you can have a happy and fulfilled life without children.

It is your choice.

It is your life.

The rest of the world can just butt out.

Thoughts on a Thursday...for the girls

2011-04-28T06:58:00.003+12:00

Being a Nana seems to be fashionable now. I'm not afraid to admit that I'm one of them. I've talked before about domestic arts, and housework - and the difference. I subscribe to Wendyl Nissen's newsletter, and use her laundry liquid. (One day I might even make my own.)
Today I came over all Nana-ish and sent my mother - yes, my mother! - housework tips! Gosh... Anyway - for those interested:
Add one cup of white vinegar into your final clothes wash rinse to soften clothes and strip out any laundry powder residue (which can cause skin reactions).
Put a couple of drops of liquid soap onto a dry cloth and wipe over your bathroom window. It will stop fogging thanks to steam for a while. Once the fogging begins again, it's really easy to wipe clean and clears quickly when wiped.

On the subject of Nanas...
Yesterday, I spent the day at the Auckland West Federation of Women's Institutes AGM. I managed NOT to be nominated - or nominate myself - onto the federation committee. (However, I did volunteer to be co-opted if needed.) So, a day surrounded by wonderful women. Mostly older, it must be said. (And I felt like an idiot, putting out coffee cups & napkins, while the older folk put out the tables & chairs. Damn back injury.)

To all women out there - join them! If you can't make meetings, become an associate member, like me. Each institute and federation has a 'roll call' - things you can do to help out community groups. Simple things like boxes of tissues for a local special school. If you're crafty, you can make bibs for them. Or knit beanies / bootees / jumpers for hospitals, etc. Every institute and federation will have their own list. They're one of those organisations that work quietly in the background, doing little bits to help in their community. Unsung heroes.

Seriously, what's not to like about an organisation whose motto is: To encourage and inspire women within a dynamic, caring organisation.

They would welome you. I promise. My niece and her son have been welcomed by her local institute, although most of the other members are old enough to be her grandmother (one of them is, of course). If you think you're too young, take along a friend your own age. If you're an at-home mother, for whatever length of time, there's a built-in group of support / help / advice (good or otherwise) there.

If you don't have a nana of your own - there's a group there with a Nana for you.

If you don't have any craft-y skills now, you will have, if you're willing to learn.

So - whose up to the challenge? Join the nanas. Learn new skills. Meet new people. Find some adoptable nanas for yourself. Give to the community. Be a hero.

Thoughts for a Thursday... family at war

2011-04-21T16:29:00.002+12:00

Anzac Day is always a time of reflection. Time to think about war and its impact.

I’d always thought that The War (in this case World War II) didn’t have much of an impact on my immediate family. My dad was too young, and my grandads had long-standing injuries that meant they were unfit. Today I realised that The War really did have a major influence on my life – let alone others in my immediate family.

My grandfather in uniform, at a
family wedding.
October 1944.

The War changed people. It sent my biological maternal grandfather off to the Pacific (Air Force ground crew). Like many men, he left behind his wife and children (my mother and aunt). While operating as a solo mother, my grandmother had an independent life. Something she’d never had before. Her husband returned, I’m sure with mental trauma from his experiences, and things didn’t work out. As my nana said ‘he hit me once, and I forgave him. He hit me again, and I went out the window’. And she did. Never to return. (Gosh, I don’t mean he hit her, and the impetus pushed her out the window. I mean, she ran away.)

How did you get a divorce in 1944? You had to prove adultery. And that is why my aunt was born in July 1945. And my grandparents married in October 1945.

So – what impact did the war have on my family? It split it. It gave my mother a new dad, and a new name. It meant we ended up with a really amazing grandad. Maybe my biological grandfather would have been nice, but we’ll never know. (That said, his grandchildren from his second marriage cried at his funeral, so maybe they did get a good grandad.)

Mum with Uncle Jim.

What else? That Nana had three brothers: Jim and Ernie were in the army (Middle East), and Al in the navy (on the Achilles during the Battle of the River Plate). Uncle Jim was seriously injured at some point – got to meet Rommel while in a German hospital. At least, that’s the story – hard to know really. As his sister (Nana) admitted once, ‘I don’t know how sane I’d be if I’d had his war experiences’. Well, he wasn’t really insane, as much as paranoid.

A completely different story for his wife. How sane would you be, if one of your first ever jobs was helping repatriate Holocaust victims to Palestine? As with many of Uncle Jim’s stories, we were sceptical – but no, she really did. Diagnosis: paranoid schizophrenia, with a side-order of violence. Army training really helped with that.

Dad's intake.

Nearer to home, Dad could tell fun stories about his time in CMT in 1952. Seemed to involve a lot of drinking. Oh, and fun with the Korean soldiers. As a kid, I always thought he meant Korean Koreans, rather than New Zealand soldiers heading to the Korean WAR .

When I met my half-brother, we found out that he was a navy boy. Ex, at that point. He was based in South-East Asia when I was born – and it wasn’t that quiet a place in 1971. (Funny thing is, although he never met Uncle Al – they look alike and had the same rolling walk.)

This weekend my nephew* heads off to Singapore for three months. He’s in the navy. Go well. And come home safe to your wife and baby. May your relationship only strengthen during this time of separation. May your love grow deeper.

Arohanui.

*this nephew is a result of war. His mother is first-generation New Zealander of Dutch descendent. His Oma wanted to move somewhere that couldn’t be invaded. And there was this guy with glasshouse pieces ready to move to New Zealand.

Thoughts for a Thursday: fashion

2011-04-14T07:36:00.003+12:00

I know that seanfish would disagree that we're middle-aged... but when it comes to clothes shopping, I'm feeling decidely in-between.

I'm too old for some shops. Too young for other shops. Too dressy / business. Not funky enough. Too casual. Too poor. Too something.

Saw a fab pair of boots - the design is my name and all! - but $240... maybe not. Saw a great dress - $130. Hmmm... Also a no-go.

So - turning to the left or the right isn't really working at the moment. I'm in the middle, spinning around.

Such a whiney girl at the moment. But, there must be others out there who understand. Surely.

Thoughts for a Thursday: Grandparents

2011-04-07T18:53:00.001+12:00

Recently I've had a few conversations about grandparents, and their importance in people's lives. I think it's sad that most of my nieces and nephews only have one grandparent. Admittedly, she's a pretty cool grandmother to have. (Love you Mum!). I also feel sorry for those of my friends who didn't have close relationships with their grandparents.

Until I was about 3, I had one great-grandfather, three grandads, and two nanas. I don't remember my great-grandad. And I had very little to do with one of my grandads (actually my clearest memory related to him is of his funeral). And, one of my grandads died when I was nine. However, my memories of that time are pretty hazy, so I don't remember much of him, unfortunately.

What I do remember of that house was the freedom. This was the house where kids - in my case, kid, singular - were expected to entertain themselves while the adults caught up and talked about adult things. I was brought in for food and drink (the biscuit tin was always full - sultana pasties, hundreds & thousand biscuits, in particular, where much prized. And, somehow, the sachet drink at Nana's always tasted different from anywhere else. This Nana became the Biscuit Nana). This house had a magic table (my older siblings called it Aslan's Table). It had a garden that was free range. I could pick and eat pretty much anything. The rules were unspoken, but clear. It was magic. (These are my Dad's parents.)

The other Nana and Grandad lived in two different houses in my memory, and I don't remember much of the first one. Well, snippets. The second one was a unit in a set of pensioner units. That would be why there were toys to play with inside. (This Nana became known as the Toy Nana).

Although this set of grandparents were around longer, and I built stronger, more adult, relationships with them, as a child their house didn't have the same sense of freedom as the other. And, somehow, wasn't quite as child-friendly and welcoming - although to all appearances, it should have been.

The Biscuit Nana was a product of her time. She grew up before she should have, with adult responsibilities at a too young age, supporting her family. They were a non-demonstrative couple, but hugs and kisses were received and given when we visited. Nana worked most of her life. Unusually for her time, she learnt to drive, mostly because Grandad couldn't, as he had lost his eye in a workplace accident. She was strongly independent, in a quiet way. They struggled in the Depression, but held it together. She was only able to have two children, but accepted their in-laws, and had strong bonds with Nana's family. Nana was always a snazzy dresser, with great shoes. If only any of us had inherited her colouring: blue-black hair, with violet-blue eyes. Aunty Gwen got the eyes, and they are stunning.
[Every morning, Dad would ring his mum and they would talk and talk and talk. When Nana moved in with us (just for a short while before she died) every morning he'd put on his dressing gown, and sit at the end of his Mum's bed and they'd talk and talk and talk. The first morning after Nana's death, Dad rang his sister - at the same time he used to ring his mum - and said 'we're orphans'. It hit me then that, no matter how old you are, whether you were a grandparent or whatever, you will always be a child. And you will always need your Mum and Dad.]
Grandad was bedridden for most of my life, but he relished and cherished his grandchildren - we could do no wrong in his eyes. If you've ever wondered why I have two teaspoons of sugar in my drinks, you can blame him. I can remember staying with them, and Grandad bringing in my breakfast on a tray in the morning - breakfast in bed! He spoiled us - and part of it would be a glass of milk with two sugars. He also gave us money when we visited, for treats (I got 50 cents, my older siblings got less. Inflation guys!).

The Toy Nana and Grandad. It is hard to compare of course! And the fact they died when I was an adult changes your perspective. But, my Little Miss Matchy-Matchy traits come from this Nana, I'm sure of it. (Shoes, I can blame on both of them - and my mum). Again, independent woman. Oh, and she passed her organisation / volunteering / crafting propensity to her daughter, and hence to me.
Grandad was a gentle soul, giving and accepting. He had six children. It didn't matter to him who was the biological father - they were all his. To his dying day, he wished he knew who his biological father was. How does a man cope when he comes home from work one day, having left behind that morning his wife and infant daughter, and is greeted by two older daughters calling him dad? He adopts them legally but, more importantly, takes them as his - in his heart. The joy when he was reunited with his first daughter (from his first marriage) - after 58 years! - was just beautiful.

Do I miss them? Damn straight.
If the Biscuit Nana was alive, I could show her that the $400 she gave me to help buy textbooks in my first year at university (and that my inheritance from her paid my uni fees for the next two years of my BA) was worth it. That I didn't cost my dad a lot of money. That I used my degree to good effect. That I did it. (Until fairly recently, I'm the only one of my family - pretty sure both sides - with a degree.) We could talk cricket. And rugby. And league.
If Grandad C was alive (always Grandad Cxxxxxx - and Dad was just Grandad. No surname. That was his dad) I could ask for help with my garden. I could make him a cuppa.
If the Toy Nana was alive, I could show off my craft skills, and talk about our cats. I could ring up for cooking advice. And we could chat.
If Grandad F was alive we could talk about books. I could introduce him to some fabulous new children's books that have been published. He would have LOVED Harry Potter! We could complain about the fact that there's very few fantasy books published in large print.
If they were alive I would cherish them, as I might not have done while they were alive. I was too young, in some instances, to do so. I would love them. I would show them that the lessons they passed on - intentionally or not - have been heeded.

At nearly 40 I have learned that you always need your grandparents. That they are some of the most valuable people in your lives. If yours are still alive - and, if you really love them - tell them. Now.
If you are grandparentless - think about what they mean to you. And think it into the universe.
We know they're listening. Why should death stop them from keeping an eye on us?
Nothing will stop that love.

Waiting impatiently

2011-03-31T07:36:00.000+13:00

'Fear me. I've killed hundreds of Time Lords'
'Fear me. I've killed all of them.'

Thoughts on a Thursday: Hateful words

2011-03-31T05:54:00.001+13:00

There are two words – usually used together – that I think are the most hateful words in our language.

Us

Them

Think about it.

Creating - manufacturing - differences between anyone sets up opportunities for abuse. For hatred. For paranoia. For misunderstandings.

I don’t mean we have to all be exactly the same – I’m not advocating a melting point of sameness. Let’s celebrate the good things about our differences. Enjoy the colour and the vibrancy. But…

Us

Them

These are the words that lead to bigotry and genocide.

However we think of ‘them’, whoever ‘they’ are they are ‘other’. And ‘other’ usually has negative meanings.

Sometimes these words are implied. Sometimes they are implicit. And they are insidious. They sneak into your thoughts and your speech without realising.

All I ask is that we think about it. Maybe then we’ll have understanding and acceptance and joy.

Words have no meaning

2011-02-23T08:33:00.000+13:00

What can we say? For those in Christchurch, we are thinking of you, our hearts are with you.

Favourite things Friday: Masco

2011-02-11T06:06:00.002+13:00

I've talked about Masco before -m the value of specialist shops, and why we should support them.

Last week, the lesson was brought home to me.

Before Christmas I'd dropped in to show all the socks off and Masco Lady mentioned how nice it was to see a complete pattern for some of the yarn. The swatches they get don't always show that. So, I dropped off coloured photos, with yarn type specified, of the socks I'd knitted, so they could use them as a reference.

Last week, I dropped in to Masco during my lunch break - it was the in-between pay week, so no money to spend - but I'd just finished a pair of socks made with yarn they'd just brought in recently. And Masco Lady told me that if I saw her, or Masco Man, I would get a discount of my sock wool, to say thank you. Because I'm a good customer. I buy my wool from them (it's a rare month when I'm not down there :)), I show them what the yarn looks like when it's made, and I gave them the photos once I realised it would help.

Yep. Small, specialist shops - the kind you can built a relationship with - rock.

And, it's one of the things I really miss working in a big central library - that lack of community and regulars. The ones you put things aside for, when they come in, or put requests in for. Or ask about their families. You know the ones. (They're also the ones who make you goodies at Christmas.) I miss that.

Thoughts for a Thursday: teamwork

2011-02-10T06:34:00.002+13:00

I've posted about my work place before - he tangata, he tangata, he tangata.

Today we said goodbye to a team mate - she is moving on to better and greater things - long-term dream type stuff. And who are we to stop that. We can still be sad, tho!

I've been in the organisation for 15 years now, in a few teams - and stayed at one desk, through 3 job titles, 2 team leaders, various other reorganisations around me. My team has merged with others, separated out, merged with others...

And, all the while - I've worked with some pretty great people.

I've been a smoker for many of these years - making my social connection at work larger than many. There's always people from other teams you meet in the smokers' area, wherever it is. (Same holds true at conferences / meetings, etc.)

People have come and gone. Some keep in touch. Some don't. Facebook helps. Outside organisations help. Effort helps.

Now, paying bills is a major reason for going to work. But, so are the people I get to hang out with while there.

As always... he tangata. He tangata. He tangata.

Cat-urday: full moon?

2011-01-29T06:00:00.004+13:00

Nice... get where this LOLcat is coming from...

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Now - you can take that to mean myself, or the customers. Or both. Take your pick :)

Hi again...

2011-01-28T20:57:00.000+13:00

Spot the person too busy at work - with added paranoia about 'net acces at work - to post... Much as I love you guys, I really do not want to spend my time at home on the computer.

Anyhoo... this will be & a couple of my sisters in a few weeks time. How's that for family bonding?!?

Cat-urday... bedtime remix

2011-01-15T00:45:00.003+13:00

Ha! I gotta get me one of these!

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Monday musing... seeing through Monkey's new eyes

2011-01-10T06:36:00.009+13:00

On New Year's Day I was lucky enough to go to the zoo with Monkey, her parents, her aunt, uncle, cousin and Nana. (By the way - great adult to child ratio there - 6 to 3!)

Anyway, Monkey's 16 months old now, and she's beginning to put things together. And, I saw one of those moments. When something she'd learnt in the abstract - or pictorial - came to life and she KNEW.

She's been learning animal noises (good job by her parents). So, we spent the day hearing various rahs, and oo-oo monkey noises as she identified animals. Sometimes - interesting choices: the siamang was called 'teddy' and the sealion 'shark' (said with relish - just how her dad says it). Not bad for 16 months, and entertaining thinking through her thought processes to identify unfamiliar animals through her worldview.

Her dad said 'look at the elephant' - but Burma was a bit blending in with the background, as she was towards the back of the enclosure, having a mud bath. But then she came closer. And, Monkey got it. 'Ella!' she said, very excitedly. 'Ella! Ella!' When she was standing, holding on to the fence railings, she was so excited, she was rocking back and foward, shaking the bars.

I apologise for the photos - and upcoming lack of them. Didn't check the batteries before I left. Idiot.

So, there's no photo of Monkey standing, face and hands pressed against the glass, looking at the cheetahs RIGHT THERE, saying 'rah'. Cuteness.

It made the zoo experience very cool. Not that the weather was cool at all!

Another aside - how do children recognise all those different things as 'ducky': eg plastic rubber duck toy, picture of said toy, real duck, picture of real duck, photo of real duck, duckling... The human brain is an amazing thing.

Caturday... sleeping arrangements

2011-01-08T08:47:00.004+13:00

So, it's summer. And hot at night. So why is it NOW that the Mollster decides to sleep with me (luckily, not ON me, which Erika's fluffy cat does - and only in summer).

Now, Mollster isn't just sleeping on my bed - but usually, curled up by my knees. This makes it diffcult to throw off the blankets when it get hots - which it does. You know what it's like - cold, hot, cold, hot... repeat wild temperature variations throughout the night.

Now, in winter - I have no idea where the Mollster sleeps. 'Cos it sure as heck isn't with me!!! Which, if I was in charge, it would be. Come on - non-moving blankets, electric blanket... what's not to like???

Friday favs... Georgette Heyer

2011-01-07T07:32:00.000+13:00

Yes, I love most of books, and I'm going to read more this year - particularly ones I haven't read before... However, I've just finished Jane Aiken Hodge's biography of her - The private world of Georgette Heyer - which is fascinating. This wee passage had me nodding in understanding. I would like to be about to have expensive taste - but I do my best.

There was nothing egalitarian about Georgette Heyer. She thought the labourer worthy of her hire. Working hard, expected to enjoy the fruits of her labours. She liked the elegances of life, earned them, and bought them. Their chambers were well, if sombrely, furnished; she dressed impeccable and expensive taste, with a penchant for huge hats and the very best handbags and shoes. (Arrow Books, 2006; pp 112-113.)

Last night

2011-01-06T12:54:00.003+13:00

I spent most of last night a lot like this cute little guy... finally got to sleep around 3am. Bit of an issue when your alarm goes off at 5am...

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Favourite things Friday

2010-12-31T16:29:00.000+13:00

My Family.
They rock. They are supportive. They are fun. They are zany. They are loving and caring and...

My Friends.
They rock. They are supportive. They are fun. They are zany. They are loving and caring and...

Love you guys.

Merry New Year.

Cat-urday: Christmas!

2010-12-25T15:43:00.008+13:00

And this is why my Christmases have been mostly tree-less for the last 14 years.

Friday favs... Smith & Caughey Christmas

2010-12-24T07:47:00.000+13:00

I love the fact they go all-out. I love the windows. And I really, really loved the ham Christmas lunch I had a couple of days ago with the Boss - the roast potatoes were amazing.

Thoughts for a Thursday... dress dilemmas

2010-12-23T03:30:00.017+13:00

Warning: very boring for guys... so don't bother reading on. Promise.

On Saturday I was on a mission to find a dress for Christmas Day. Hey, if the little guys can have new clothes for the day, don't see why I can't.

Anyway - the shop was open for less than an hour when I eventually left with one dress I'm 90% happy with. Leaving a pile of 10+ dresses that didn't cut the mustard. Said dress made the cut, but only with the addition of a t-shirt and shrug - which will not be worn at the same time).

I watch things like Gok and Trinny & Susannah. I know from their shows - Gok in particular - that mine is the body shape people want (in theory - tho' one website told me I was plank-shaped. Thanks. Heaps.). This, however, did not stop the disaster / dilemma of the trying on.

I have a shape (albeit plank), which means dresses with lots of padding don't work. Squished-mono-breast is not the look I'm going for, in general. It also means support is needed. So, strapless can be a problem. And so can straps. I'd prefer wider straps, thanks, to at least attempt to cover the bra straps. Oh, and so halter-necks are out, too, for that reason. So, too, plunging necklines. I like my clothes to do double-duty: work and not-work. Cleavage may be great, but so not suitable in my work place! A hint, yep. Plunging - that would be a hell no.

It is difficult to be a 1950s-shaped person in a 1960s/70s styled fashion world. Sigh.

Hence the dilemma.

I like dresses. I like the fact that on days like Christmas, when you're eating a lot, there's no restrictive waistband to make you uncomfortable.

But, again, the dilemma - the shape. I'm a couple of different 'sizes' in my one size. So, finding a dress that suits and is - for me - one-size-fits-all is a struggle. (Not just dresses, really - skirts / trousers also a problem. Yay for hipster styles, I say!) Surely I'm not the only one with such issues.

Anyway - I'm sure there will be photos so you can see how well I did.

Cat-urday: the truth

2010-12-18T13:35:00.000+13:00

So - this is how they do it. There's a manual!

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Friday fandom... OMG!!! EPIC

2010-12-17T02:15:00.001+13:00

Thought for a Thursday... cousinly love

2010-12-16T08:38:00.000+13:00

I'm pretty close to my cousin Jod - in age and emotionally. We're only two weeks apart - I'm older, but as Jod like to point out, she was conceived before me. And she got to go home from hospital first. Oh, and walked first, too. She did a lot of things first.

When we were little, we spent a lot of time together - our families were close. But, as both sets of parents divorced - we went with the unrelated parent. She with her mother, and me with my father. Although we shared a set of grandparents (my mother's parents, and her father's parents), we didn't see each other for years.

Then, one day - completely out of the blue - I received a letter from her. In it was a ticket to the local ice-skating rink. She thought it would be useful for me, as she lived on the other side of the city.

From that simple act - I don't know how brave it was to write and hope - we came back together. Every school holiday we spent time together, alternating houses.

As she moved around, we kept in touch by letters.

Then, she moved back to Auckland. And, somehow, we stopped writing and didn't really start phoning. But, still, the closeness was there. Now there's email, facebook, blogs and text. And we just pick up where we left off.

And, this is the true meaning of closeness - no matter the distance, nor the differences in philosophies - we are together.

I love you lots Jod!

with my big sisters in 1972

1974

1984

1987

1996

2001

2010

Cat-urday: aint that the truth

2010-12-11T11:46:00.001+13:00

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Cat-urday: life with the Mollster

2010-12-04T11:44:00.002+13:00

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Thought for a Thursday

2010-12-02T15:36:00.000+13:00

Ain't this the truth...

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Cat-urday: somedays

2010-11-27T09:11:00.002+13:00

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Reading history

2010-11-26T03:51:00.002+13:00

For those who don't know - I'm on Good Reads, and take part in challenges - go Romance Readers Challenge!

Anyhoo, a while ago - one of the challenges was to read a book from each year you've been alive. I thought I'd share my list:

A life-time of books:
Reading time allowed: May 2009 to November 2010. Finished 17 July 2010.
I tried to re-read books I owned, as I thought it was a more true reflection of my reading life than reading something new to me.

1971 - Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey. 21 Dec 2009. Re-read & own.
1972 - The Summer Book by Tove Jansson. 15 July 2010.
1973 - To Ride Pegasus by Anne McCaffrey. 20 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1974 - Mister God, this Is Anna by Fynn. 2 May 2010. Re-read & own.
1975 - The Machine-Gunners by Robert Westall. 27 March 2010.
1976 - Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less by Jeffrey Archer. 13 Nov 2009. Re-read & own.
1977 - Illusions by Richard Bach. 22 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1978 - Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast by Robin McKinley. 24 May 2009. Re-read & own.
1979 - Under the Mountain by Maurice Gee. 8 Aug 2009. Re-read.
1980 - The Beginning Place by Ursula K. Le Guin. 12 Aug 2009. Re-read.
1981 - Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian. 9 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1982 - The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley. 6 June 2009. Re-read & own.
1983 - Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce. 14 May 2009. Re-read & own.
1984 - The Changeover by Margaret Mahy. 19 June 2009. Re-read & own.
1985 - The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman. 23 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1986 - To Love and to Conquer by Joyce Verrette. 13 Nov 2009. This is the pub date of the UK edition - which had no info re the US edition - which I've just discovered was 1984. Sorry... So, also read Jesse's Lady by Veronica Sattler. 12 January 2010. Both of these are re-read and owns - owning, in that I inherited them from my sister.
1987 - The League of Night and Fog by David Morrell. 20 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1988 - The Gate to Women's Country by Sherri S Tepper. 14 Aug 2009. Re-read & own.
1989 - The Silver Pigs by Lindsey Davis. 23 Aug 2009. Re-read & own.
1990 - Good Omens by Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman. 14 July 2009. Re-read & own.
1991 - The Juniper Game Sherryl Jordan. 2 July 2009. Re-read & own.
1992 - In Good Time by Muriel Jensen. 1 January 2010. Re-read & own - another inherited book.
1993 - Deerskin by Robin McKinley. 9 Nov 2009. Re-read.
1994 - The Hidden City by David Eddings. 15 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1995 - Wish And a Kiss by Margaret St George. 17 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
1996 - The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner. 1 June 2009. Re-read & own.
1997 - Magician's Ward by Patricia C. Wrede. 19 Nov 2009. Re-read & own.
1998 - The Surgeon of Crowthorne by Simon Winchester. 29 December 2009. Re-read & own.
1999 - The Tower and the Hive by Anne McCaffrey. 19 Aug 2009. Re-read & own.
2000 - The Redemption of Althalus by David & Leigh Eddings. 4 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
2001 - Living With Crazy Buttocks by Kaz Cooke. 28 December 2009. Re-read & own.
2002 - Lady Knight by Tamora Pierce. 14 Sept 2009. Re-read & own.
2003 - Sunshine by Robin McKinley. 17 March 2010. Re-read & own.
2004 - Cross Tides by Lorraine Orman. 30 Oct 2009. Re-read & own.
2005 - Across the Wall: A Tale of the Abhorsen and Other Stories by Garth Nix. 4 Aug 2009. Re-read & own.
2006 - The Mislaid Magician or Ten Years After: Being the Private Correspondence Between Two Prominent Families Regarding a Scandal Touching the Highest Levels of Government and the Security of the Realm by Patricia C. Wrede & Caroline Stevermer. 10 January 2010. Re-read & own.
2007 - Time of the Eagle by Sherryl Jordan. 15 June 2010. Re-read.
2008 - Chalice by Robin McKinley. 20 Oct 2009. Re-read.
2009 - Bloodhound by Tamora Pierce. 4 July 2009. Own.
2010 - Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh. 8 March 2010.

Thoughts for a Thursday... little things

2010-11-25T08:23:00.000+13:00

And, probably not the little things you're thinking of.

I'm thinking little things called prepositions.

While studying@ old dead languages (Old English & Old Norse)* I discovered that their prepositions were quite fluid. One little preposition could mean at or on or by, etc...

And that really screws with your concept of the action.

Consider these shoes...

Now, the very pretty one on the left is one of the pair I was wearing AT work yesterday. While the one of the right - plain, sensible - is one of the pair I was wearing TO and FROM work. See - makes sense.

When translating some saga or other - we needed the help of our lecturer to picture the scene. Well, it's not every day you find out that cows often grazed ON the roof of a house#.

So, I say - take care of those little prepositions and enjoy the knowledge they provide in those few letters.

@ I say 'studied' - not learned. Trust me, did enough to pass - and forgotten most of it now. I didn't even consider any living language.
* I also studied Latin - but it didn't seem to have the same problem with prepositions - or I don't remember it.
# It's like the first thing we translated... about the birth of Sleipnir, Odin's horse, in the Gylfaginning - when it says about Loki: he bore a foal. It was grey and had eight legs. Come on, that's pretty odd, and makes you question your skills!

Garden update

2010-11-24T09:53:00.000+13:00

Here you go - photos of the 'garden'...

Got any bread?

2010-11-24T09:42:00.000+13:00

Well, yes, actually I do...

Inspired by the new Simon & Alison Holst New Zealand bread book - which I bought - I've been making my own bread. The tortilla recipe is from my edition of good-old Edmonds... And, I have no photos of the kumara and cumin bread. That rocks! Tonight - pizza! Last time (the first time) I made it, from the time I gathered the ingredients, to putting my empty plate on the sink - 45 minutes. Not bad, if I do say so myself.

Itty-bitty no-knead rolls

Homemade tortillas -
oh, with my own lettuce, too!

Olive & herb bread -
crispy, not burnt!, crust

Hamburger buns

First loaf of kneaded bread

Homemade pizza

Cat-urday: ad-land

2010-11-20T03:36:00.001+13:00

This, may I say, has NEVER EVER been the Moll-ster. She has - once, I think - interferred with my knitting. Never played with balls of wool. And, quite frankly, I don't think seeing something raining down outside would disrupt her from her contemplation of life. However, it is a really cute ad.

Sock-isfaction

2010-11-19T03:27:00.002+13:00

Done! All the Christmas socks I planned - and more - are completed. And, the baby shower socks - 4 different sizes, so future baby's parents are prepared. And, the socks I entered into a WI competition in October (which will do double duty as eldest sis' birthday present in July)... So - onto next-sister-up's presents...

I've made changes to my pattern - all updated on the patterns page of this blog. You can email me if you want the new version. It has two extra baby sizes. Friends and family were texted to measure their babies' feet...

So - a couple of photos - the pile of socks - and the big-and-the-small of it! In the pile, the competition socks are missing.

That means - only two Christmas presents to buy! Yay... However, I refuse to 'wrap' the presents until December. With the socks, I'm planning on tying them together with pretty ribbon. I try not to wrap presents.

Thoughts for a Thursday... hands

2010-11-18T08:39:00.027+13:00

What is it about hands that fascinate me?

Hands, quite literally, hold our pasts and our futures.
Hands create our present.
Hands offer gifts, and hold our hearts.
Hands offer comfort and support. And a Gibbs-style hit up the backside of your head when you need it.

I spent hours massaging lotion in Grandad's and Dad's hands as they were dying. It's amazing how dry dying people's hands get.
Their years of work - labour - were visible in their hands.

I remember the thrill of Dad discovering he had fingerprints again. To explain - years of working with acids, and stone (he was a stone mason / tiler), had worn his fingerprints off. (And the hairs on his knees - many hours spent kneeling on job sites). It took months after he retired for these normal, everyday, signifiers of identity to return.

Hands sustain us. They make our food - our clothing - the comforts of our lives. Whether they belong to a factory worker many miles away - or our own hands.

As I use my hands to create this year's batch of Christmas gifts - handknitted socks - I feel that I offer my love and care to the recipients in each stitch my hands create.

Hands. Take care of them. Love them. And acknowledge all the hard work they do, every day, without us really noticing.

Cat-urday: why yes...

2010-11-13T08:27:00.003+13:00

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They do...

Friday fandom

2010-11-12T03:26:00.000+13:00

'Nuff said...

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Thoughts for Thursday: Rememberance Day

2010-11-11T11:00:00.002+13:00

Yes, today is Remembrance Day. Yet, how many New Zealander's remember that this day is important.

We're all behind ANZAC Day - and so we damn well should be! - but there is also something significane in the acknowledgement of Remembrance Day.

On ANZAC Day, we remember and acknowledge the New Zealanders and Australians who have fought on our behalves across the years - whether we agree with the reasons behind the conflict or not - their courage and willingness to sacrifice their lives needs acknowledging. As a friend's grandmother once said about the returned World War Two vets she knew - none of the boys I knew came home. Yes, men looking much like them, and with their names, returned. But whatever essence of 'boy-ness' or innocence that left NZ with them - stayed overseas.

But - Remembrance Day. This day asks us to think about those lost in war across the world. Not just our own fallen.

When I grew up, the school bell would sound just before 11am, and we were asked to observe the traditional two minutes of silence.

Today - now - I will be doing so. Yes, I know no one else will know, but I will.

To soldiers - to those affected by war - past and present - here and overseas - I acknowledge and reflect upon your courage. I hope for your healing.

Kia kaha. Arohanui.

Review it: An old favourite

2010-11-04T09:12:00.002+13:00

These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sparkling dialogue - a hero just as bad as he should be - a heroine who can actually stand on her own feet (even if she's only 19). The Duke of Avon (aka Satanas) buys a page - Leon - who is really Leonie, with a sordid family history. Avon has an interesting history of his own, including fighting in the '45 rebellion.

Heyer is brilliant - others just try to reach her level. I'm pretty sure I read a Barbara Cartland take-off, but that would have been over 20 years ago... so hard to remember!

additional review: November 2010:

There's something about re-reading an old favourite. It's like changing into your old snuggly slippers and dressing gown. You know they're a bit shabby, a bit worn down, but you - without being aware of it really - skip over the holes and instead revel in the comfort they provide.

So it is with These Old Shades. I'd hate to think how many times I've read this - which was first published in 1926.

I adore Avon, the hero. He has the perfect mix of tenderness and suppressed violence - and a shady past. He is probably whom I base all romance heroes upon.

Leonie, the heroine, is a wonderful mixture of innocence, wisdom and world-weariness.

I can see how this May and December romance works. Avon is in his 40s, Leonie is 19. They have time to develop a real relationship, without any romantic overtones, and learn to appreciate each other as people - pretty much warts and all.

Leonie's development, growth and change from mischievous page boy to irrepressible young lady, is also believable, within the world developed.

Avon is a force of nature - unwielding and secretive - so it is difficult to read him at times - that is, to get inside his head.

Ah, the relationship between Avon and Leonie. Trust, honesty, respect, adoration, acceptance and freedom between them. One of the best lines ever is from Leonie: I would so much rather be the last woman than the first. Yes they change, all do in relationships - but they remain themselves. In Devil's Cub, the story of their son, Leonie is a well-established, middle-aged duchess, and Avon is heading towards elderly (he'd be in his 60s I suppose - and that's probably why I don't re-read this one. My Avon is in his prime, and that's how he'll stay, thank you very much!). However, Leonie is irrepressible and forthright - still with that touch of Leon, the page. Avon remains inscrutable.

The supporting cast are all well-drawn and have sustained personalities. There are Avon's siblings - Fanny (who is very silly - well, focused on fashion and society - believable for the times) and Rupert - a gadabout young man. And the very sober Edward Marling, Fanny's husband, Hugh Davenant and Tony Merivale - friends of the family. The pig-person, or baddie, is also believable within this world.

There is mystery - the dénouement and details are somewhat foreshadowed - which is well-handled, as you'd hope from someone who also wrote mysteries!

The historical detail is convincing - Heyer is renown for her research and accuracy.

The dialogue moves the action forward and gives glimpses into the characters' thoughts and personalities.

There is no sex - one kiss, very briefly mentioned and interrupted. There is some violence - again, detailed just enough so you know what has happened (no matter how bloodthirsty Leonie is!). There are lots of parties and LOTS of descriptions of clothing.

Oh, and you might struggle with the French expressions scattered throughout. I just skip what I don't understand. Mind you, I'l still trying to figure out what Pon Rep might be an abbreviation of - and that's English! Readers in the 1920s obviously were bilingual!

All of this is wonderful - in my eyes, at least. And I'm not alone - it's still in print and still read and enjoyed.

Now - the holes. For me, there's only really one - and it's major. It's the old 'nature versus nurture' debate. (My years studying anthropology come to the fore now.) Leonie's genetic heritage is obvious to all - she must be well-born. Helpfully, some of her behaviour and mannerisms - and education - are explained by the years she was taught by, and live with, the village priest - an aristocrat. The vicomte is a clod and all he wants is a farm, although raised in society and frequent attendant at Versailles.

But, if you accept this premise - that nature is paramount - then enjoy the read.

View all my reviews

What I did on my vacation

2010-10-30T18:40:00.000+13:00

Spent too much money...
Read too few books... [ie, had PILES - literally - to read, and have read ONE]
Knitted socks
Went to doctor for skin cancer check - all good
Checked and I don't have any signs of glaucoma or catarachs [however the hell you spell it]
Slept in and rested lots
Made 2 - yes TWO - lots of bread. One no-knead, one full-on kneaded. Photos coming later.
Made my own tortillas for tacos. Is that obsessive?
Ignored technology quite a lot - hence not visiting anything - including my blog.
And now - tonight is sports nights. League test and ABs v Wallabies. Bliss...
Signing off now, and will be back when back to work on Tuesday.

Cat-urday: x-files kitty!

2010-10-23T00:35:00.001+13:00

Well - that explains a lot!

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Reminds me of Tooms!

Fun on a Friday: review time

2010-10-22T05:10:00.016+13:00

Anyhoo... I posted this review on a discussion / challenge in Good reads - but thought I'd share it here. Haven't reviewed anything in AGES!

Three times a bride
An anthology. So, three novellas - three 'forced' weddings. As always with anthologies, a bit rocky.
First up: 'Fancy free' by Catherine Anderson.
Western. She wears glasses, but was rejected because of them, so doesn't wear them in public - hence, embroils the wrong brother in her revenge plot. Found the next morning in a compromising position IN THE CHURCH! How convenient, they could just get married straight away... And, seeing as hero was thinking about getting hog-tied anyhoo (those brothers of his are all running wild and having nightmares) the Father with gun, *seriously - pointed AT HIS HEAD* (sorry, I think it was a pistol, not a shotgun) - he goes through with wedding. Introduce New Bride and all is perfect... until aunt arrives... blah, blah. Yep, predictable. 3 stars.... ok, but not overwhelming.

Followed by 'The mad earl's bride' by Loretta Chase.
He's just like his mother - over-sexed and headachy. So, convinced he's going to die at any moment, he lives recklessly in the wilds of Yorkshire (crap! I think it's Yorkshire)... anyhoo, moving on. Then calamity! He becomes the earl - thanks too close-to-impossible-plot-device... Enter, even whose than a blue-stocking, but *shock horror* an EDUCATED woman who wants to be a doctor, but those mean nasty men won't let her. That's ok - she's found a dying man to marry (and breed with, quickly you understand - thank goodness her family are so fertile) and leave her his fortune so she can build her hospital and run it without those pesky men interfering. Gotta love those frizzy-redheads... That said - I really liked her! 3.5 stars - nearly 4.

Last cab... 'Scandal's bride' by Samantha James.
How sad. Her father is forcing her to marry - three seasons you know. To stop his evilness, she finds the first man she doesn't already know and KISSES him in public. Well, on the balcony, just as her friend appears in a pre-arranged set-up. Father is there, tho! No escape!! It's marriage for sure. Right then. Well, an hour or so later. THEN... no consumation. THEN... misunderstanding... THEN... togetherness... THEN... misunderstanding... THEN... happy ever after. Ho hum 3 stars.
So - overall, an OK read. 3 stars. Right for those brain-dead times when you need the words to wash over your eyeballs, but don't actually require much in the way of brain cells to comprehend the meaning.

Oh... discussion questions!
Did the story & characters sound realistic? Um... that would be a NO.
Could you relate to any of the characters or certain things that happened in the story? If so, can you share an example? Frizzy-red head with an education? One who basically speaks in tongues when sharing her knowledge. Yep. That would be me. Well, sorta wavy, and sorta auburn. And, the whole speaking-in-tongue things, I've really cut down on that. Blank looks aren't always funny. (Sometimes they're hilarious).
There you go - is that enough of a review for you all?

Thoughts for a Thursday... Treasure

2010-10-21T03:58:00.023+13:00

I'm on a bit of a Joy Cowley binge at the mo.
As part of it, I've just picked up her 3 books of reflections - now, those who know me, know I'm not religious. Well, not organised pigeon-holed religious. I come from a family of questioners, from whom I have inherited a great faith, but one that isn't bound in any Faith. I hope you understand the distinction. It does mean that I pick up, magpie-like, bits and pieces of many different belief systems and appreciate them.
While skimming through Psalms for the road I found many poems which resonated with me. One of which I'd like to share today.
It made me think of conversations I had at the last working bee up north. Ok, I'm not a gardener - so have to ask others if something is a weed or not. Somewhere I heard a definition of a weed as a plant that's growing where you don't want it to - so, it could mean lettuces among your roses. Now, Dad had me well trained (and the others probably, too!) - so we appreciated 'weeds' - dandelions, buttercups, daisies - and I was always sad when Dad mowed the back yard. It was much cooler as a jungle. And provided a softer landing if you were kamikaze-ing off the swing. It was also a complete pain to mow. Little Monkey is currently growing up in a backyard similar to this - so I've been trying to convince her mother that a little bit of jungle is a good thing for a growing child.
May we all see treasure in 'weeds' - and may all our weeds become treasure. We just need to change our definitions and our viewpoints. And, may we not label others' treasures as weeds.
After this long preamble, I offer Joy Cowley's words - far more eloquent than mine.

Treasure
One fine morning, the child stood on a lawn
covered with daisies and dandelions,
and hardly dared breathe for beauty.
The grass was thick around her ankles and in it,
as far as she could see, were jewels laid out
on spring-green velvet.
Each daisy was a perfect yellow cushion
edged with white petals, some blush tinted.
Every dandelion was made from sunshine,
and some had on their faces, wet diamonds
that shivered and glittered when they rolled
onto the child's fingeres.
She took a bunch of this perfect treasure
into her father and he admired every flower,
his eyes growing soft with memory.
Together, they put them in a glass
on the kitchen window sill which instantly
became a shrine to beauty.
Later that day, someone said, "Nice lawn.
It's a pity there are so many weeds in it.
I have a spray that'll get rid of them."
At that moment, the child learned
that when a treasure is judged a weed
it has no value at all.

Who'd have thunk!

2010-10-20T17:40:00.000+13:00

What Models Read

Nostalia

2010-10-20T07:22:00.002+13:00

Today is the day - the anniversary of the last nightly show of this little number...

Music on a Monday: cover head-to-head #3

2010-10-18T08:00:00.002+13:00

Two fabulous voices and one fabulous song... so hard to choose! Sorry for the quality of the vids!

Cat-urday: that explains it

2010-10-16T07:31:00.002+13:00

So, this is why the Moll-ster runs from children...

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Some days...

2010-10-15T07:30:00.000+13:00

And they say you forget things when you're old. I'm not even 40 and I'm already hopeless...

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'Music' on a Monday

2010-10-11T01:02:00.000+13:00

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Cat-urday: Mollster's life

2010-10-09T05:30:00.002+13:00

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Wednesday want

2010-10-06T04:11:00.002+13:00

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Monkey's birthday

2010-10-05T09:37:00.000+13:00

Just a couple of photos of Monkey at her first birthday party. More on facebook...

Music on a Monday: Meat Loaf

2010-10-04T10:42:00.003+13:00

An often forgotten number...

A Tribute to Tony

2010-10-02T11:34:00.000+13:00

Ok - yes - a day late... but one of my fav scenes from one of fav movies...

Cat-urday: Thanks Basement Cat

2010-10-02T05:11:00.000+13:00

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Spring has sprung?

2010-10-01T11:31:00.002+13:00

Well, it had last weekend while we were up north on the working bee. As proof, I offer photos...

The view from the church - Dad's grave is just to the left - and those are little sheep & lambs in the opposite paddock.

Dad's grave, with spring flowers.

Happy birthday MONKEY!

2010-10-01T08:09:00.000+13:00

Yes, hard to believe - but Miss Monkey is a big ONE today!

Even when sick she is (mostly) happy... as evidenced by the below photo, taken last week.

Things to keep a girl happy - a cell phone and a teddy bear.

Sock it to them!

2010-09-28T12:31:00.000+13:00

Done! A complete set of socks, made from my adapted pattern!

What I wanted was ONE pattern for all sizes. And, this is it... If you want the pattern in a word document - you can email me - if you know my email.

One sock stop pattern

Adapted from various books, but mainly Knitted socks: over 25 designs for fab feet and cozy toes for the whole family by Anna Tillman.

Sizes:
BS: Baby small [approx up to 6 months]
BM: Baby medium [approx 6 to 18 months]
BL: Baby large [approx 18 to 24 months]
CS: Child small [approx child shoe sizes 3 to 5]
CM: Child medium [approx child shoe sizes 6 to 8]
CL: Child large [approx child shoe sizes 9 to 11]
CXL: Child extra-large [approx child shoe sizes 12 to 2]
AS: Adult small [approx adult shoe sizes 4 to 6]
AM: Adult medium [approx adult shoe sizes 7 to 9]
AL: Adult large [approx adult shoe sizes 10 to 12]
AXL: Adult extra-large [approx adult shoe sizes 13 to 14]

Trying to figure out the sizing was a bit of a pain! Shoe sizes are NZ-sizing.

Special abbreviations:
TBL: through back of loop/s. This twists the stitch, so it leans the other way.

Materials:
A set of 4 2.75mm double point needles
4 ply sock yarn 50gm ball –
BS-CM: 1 ball
CL-AXL: 2 balls

Cast on:
BS: 48 sts [16 per needle]
BM: 54 sts [18 per needle]
BL: 60 sts [20 per needle]
CS: 66 sts [22 per needle]
CM: 72 sts [24 per needle]
CL: 78 sts [26 per needle]
CXL: 84 sts [28 per needle]
AS: 90 sts [30 per needle]
AM: 96 sts [32 per needle]
AL: 102 sts [24 per needle]
AXL: 108 sts [36 per needle]

Join and place round marker.

[NB: I use a piece of different coloured yarn so it stands out, and is easily moved]

Foundation row: *K2 tog, p1; rep from * to end. This gives a more elastic cast on edge.
Number of stitches at end of decreases:
BS: 32 sts
BM: 36 sts
BL: 40 sts
CS: 44 sts
CM: 48 sts
CL: 52 sts
CXL: 56 sts
AS: 60 sts
AM: 64 sts
AL: 68 sts
AXL: 72 sts

Rib:
Baby sizes: work 5 rounds of K1, P1 rib.
Child & adult sizes: work 11 rounds of K1, P1 rib.
NB: you might like to try moss stitch instead of rib, for a different look.

Cuff:
Work until sock measures as below from beginning
BS: 7 cm
BM: 8 cm
BL: 9 cm
CS: 11 cm
CM: 14 cm
CL: 15 cm
CXL: 16 cm
AS: 17 cm
AM: 18 cm
AL: 19 cm
AXL: 20 cm
Or the length you want.

You can work whatever pattern you like, as long as it works with the number of stitches – so a 2-stitch or 4-stitch pattern will generally work.

If you use a self-striping, or variegated sock yarn, simple stocking stitch (every row knit, because you’re in the round) will work really well and look effective.

You could try cables; K2, P2 rib; moss stitch [ie knit the purl, and purl the knit stitches in the next round – also called Seed Stitch]; K3, P1 – the possibilities are endless.

Or blackberry stitch: round one: *(K1,P1,K1) into one stitch, P3 tog, rep to end; round two: *P3 tog, (K1,P1,K1) into one stitch, rep to end

Heel flap:
BS: K8 sts, turn
BM: K9 sts, turn
BL: K10 sts, turn
CS: K11 sts, turn
CM: K12 sts, turn
CL: K13 sts, turn
CXL: K14 sts, turn
AS: K15 sts, turn
AM: K16 sts, turn
AL: K17 sts, turn
AXL: K18 sts, turn

Round One:
BS: Sl 1, P15 sts, turn
BM: Sl 1, P17 sts, turn
BL: Sl 1, P19 sts, turn
CS: Sl 1, P21 sts, turn
CM: Sl 1, P23 sts, turn
CL: Sl 1, P25 sts, turn
CXL: Sl 1, P27 sts, turn
AS: Sl 1, P29 sts, turn
AM: Sl 1, P31 sts, turn
AL: Sl 1, P33 sts, turn
AXL: Sl 1, P35 sts, turn

Slide other stitches onto spare needles:
BS: 16 sts
BM: 18 sts
BL: 20 sts
CS: 22 sts
CM: 24 sts
CL: 26 sts
CXL: 28 sts
AS: 30 sts
AM: 32 sts
AL: 34 sts
AXL: 36 sts

Round Two:
BS: Sl 1, K15 sts, turn
BM: Sl 1, K17 sts, turn
BL: Sl 1, K19 sts, turn
CS: Sl 1, K21 sts, turn
CM: Sl 1, K23 sts, turn
CL: Sl 1, K25 sts, turn
CXL: Sl 1, K27 sts, turn
AS: Sl 1, K29 sts, turn
AM: Sl 1, K31 sts, turn
AL: Sl 1, K33 sts, turn
AXL: Sl 1, K35 sts, turn

Repeat these two rows and work back and forth on these stitches, for a total of:
BS: 16 rounds
BM: 18 rounds
BL: 20 rounds
CS: 22 rounds
CM: 24 rounds
CL: 26 rounds
CXL: 28 rounds
AS: 30 rounds
AM: 32 rounds
AL: 34 rounds
AXL: 36 rounds
NB: this total includes Rounds One and Two above.

Heel shaping:
Round One:
BS: Sl 1, P9, P2 tog, P1, turn
BM: Sl 1, P10, P2 tog, P1, turn
BL: Sl 1, P11, P2 tog, P1, turn
CS: Sl 1, P12, P2 tog, P1, turn
CM: Sl 1, P13, P2 tog, P1, turn
CL: Sl 1, P14, P2 tog, P1, turn
CXL: Sl 1, P15, P2 tog, P1, turn
AS: Sl 1, P16, P2 tog, P1, turn
AM: Sl 1, P17, P2 tog, P1, turn
AL: Sl 1, P18, P2 tog, P1, turn
AXL: Sl 1, P19, P2 tog, P1, turn

For all sizes:
Row two: Sl 1, K5, K2 tog tbl, K1, turn
Row three: Sl 1, P6, P2 tog, P1, turn
Row four: Sl 1, K7, k2 tog tbl, K1, turn

Continue as set – adding an extra stitch each round – until you get these number of stitches at end:

NB end with right side (knit) row and DO NOT TURN.
NB for some sizes, the final two rows do not have the P1 / K1 at the end.

BS: 10 sts
BM: 12 sts
BL: 12 sts
CS: 14 sts
CM: 14 sts
CL: 16 sts
CXL: 16 sts
AS: 18 sts
AM: 18 sts
AL: 20 sts
AXL: 20 sts

Pick up for instep:
Pick up, knitwise, the following number of stitches down the side of heel flap
BS: 8 sts
BM: 9 sts
BL: 10 sts
CS: 11 sts
CM: 12 sts
CL: 13 sts
CXL: 14 sts
AS: 15 sts
AM: 16 sts
AL: 17 sts
AXL: 18 sts

Place marker. [I usually use a stitch marker, a little circle one, preferably of a colour that stands out]

Knit across stitches from cuff (those on spare needles):
BS: 16 sts
BM: 18 sts
BL: 20 sts
CS: 22 sts
CM: 24 sts
CL: 26 sts
CXL: 28 sts
AS: 30 sts
AM: 32 sts
AL: 34 sts
AXL: 36 sts
Place marker.

Pick up, knitwise, the following number of stitches down the side of heel flap
BS: 8 sts
BM: 9 sts
BL: 10 sts
CS: 11 sts
CM: 12 sts
CL: 13 sts
CXL: 14 sts
AS: 15 sts
AM: 16 sts
AL: 17 sts
AXL: 18 sts

Knit:
BS: 5 sts
BM: 6 sts
BL: 6 sts
CS: 7 sts
CM: 7 sts
CL: 8 sts
CXL: 8 sts
AS: 9 sts
AM: 9 sts
AL: 10 stsAXL: 10 sts

This means the beginning of the round is back in the middle of the sock.

Total number of stitches:
BS: 42 sts
BM: 48 sts
BL: 52 sts
CS: 58 sts
CM: 62 sts
CL: 68 sts
CXL: 72 sts
AS: 78 sts
AM: 82 sts
AL: 88 sts
AXL: 92 sts

Shape instep:
Round One: Knit to 3 sts before first marker, K2 tog, K1, (marker), knit to next marker, (marker), K1, K2tog tbl, knit to end. [ie 2 sts decrease]

Round Two: Knit. NB for a neater finish, when you get to the decreased stitch made by K2 tog tbl, knit through the back of this stitch, so the stitches angle the right way.

Repeat these two rounds until following number stitches remain:
BS: 32 sts [10 rounds]
BM: 36 sts [12 rounds]
BL: 40 sts [12 rounds]
CS: 44 sts [14 rounds]
CM: 48 sts [14 rounds]
CL: 52 sts [16 rounds]
CXL: 56 sts [16 rounds]
AS: 60 sts [18 rounds]
AM: 64 sts [18 rounds]
AL: 68 sts [20 rounds]
AXL: 72 sts [20 rounds]

Foot:
Work until foot measures the following from the back of the heel:

BS: 9 cm
BM: 10 cm
BL: 11 cm
CS: 12 cm
CM: 14 cm
CL: 16 cm
CXL: 17 cm
AS: 18 cm
AM: 19 cm
AL: 20 cm
AXL: 21 cm

Toes:
Round One: Knit to 3 stitches before first marker, K2 tog, K1, (marker), K1, K2 tog tbl, knit to 3 stitches before next marker, K2 tog, K1, (marker), K2 tog tbl, K1, Knit to end. [ie 4 st decrease]

Round Two: Knit.
NB for a neater finish, when you get to the decreased stitch made by K2 tog tbl, knit through the back of this stitch, so the stitches angle the right way.

Repeat these two rounds until following number of stitches remain:
BS: 12 sts [10 rounds]
BM: 16 sts [10 rounds]
BL: 16 sts [12 rounds]
CS: 20 sts [12 rounds]
CM: 20 sts [14 rounds ]
CL: 24 sts [14 rounds]
CXL: 24 sts [16 rounds]
AS: 24 sts [18 rounds]
AM: 24 sts [20 rounds]
AL: 24 sts [22 rounds]
AXL: 24 sts [24 rounds]

If everything has gone to plan, the stitches before your first marker – and after your last marker – should be the number listed below to rearrange.

To make rearranging the stitches easier – when you have finished the last knit round, just continue past the round marker, and then use the same needle to knit to first marker.

Knit to first marker.

Rearrange stitches so that first
BS: 3 sts
BM: 4 sts
BL: 4 sts
CS: 5 sts
CM: 5 sts
CL: 6 sts
CXL: 6 sts
AS: 6 sts
AM: 6 sts
AL: 6 sts
AXL: 6 sts

and last
BS: 3 sts are on one needle, with the remaining (middle) stitches (as below) on another needle.

BM: 4 sts
BL: 4 sts
CS: 5 sts
CM: 5 sts
CL: 6 sts
CXL: 6 sts
AS: 6 sts
AM: 6 sts
AL: 6 sts
AXL: 6 sts

BS: 6 sts
BM: 8 sts
BL: 8 sts
CS: 10 sts
CM: 10 sts
CL: 12 sts
CXL: 12 sts
AS: 12 sts
AM: 12 sts
AL: 12 sts
AXL: 12 sts

At each end of each needle, slip the first stitch over the next stitch on the needle.
Graft the remaining stitches together using Kitchener stitch.
A good tutorial on Kitchener stitch is on this page - just scroll down a bit.

'Music' on a Monday

2010-09-27T00:57:00.001+13:00

see more Lol Celebs

Cat-urday: Mollster wishes

2010-09-25T05:38:00.001+12:00

As I'm away this weekend...

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

I'm sure B&P will be on food duty.

Thanks to mum...

2010-09-23T04:56:00.005+12:00

Well, I've got to have someone to blame for these character traits!

Thanks to my mother I am:

prone to craft-y obsessions [maybe with a bit of help from the artisan father]
disinclined to do housework
more likely to be found reading than doing housework [that's so no Dad]
the possessor of an eclectic personal library taking over my spare room
swayed by accessories - shoes are definitely thanks to her - and probably the jewellery! [I think I just added the handbags. Maybe there weren't that many around???]
likely to put my hand up for a job
an easy mark for getting involved in a volunteer organisation
likely to start taking OVER in the said organsation because - again, thanks to her!
fully capable OF taking over and doing a reasonable job of it...
likely to be embarrassed about being singled out for praise because of it - it's just a job that needs doing
going to work to the best of my ability [oh, this one's from Dad, too...]

*Sigh*

Wonders on a Wednesday

2010-09-22T19:33:00.003+12:00

Amazing! This is one only of them! The rest are here...

see more Historic LOL

Two-fer Tuesday: nuff said

2010-09-21T03:14:00.004+12:00

Thanks to Rabbittooth.

Music on a Monday: in memory of Dad

2010-09-20T08:40:00.002+12:00

However... all best laid plans - and THIS is the song that we ended up playing throughout the service. Yes, it was a fav of Dad's - but still...

Sock update on a Sunday

2010-09-19T08:51:00.001+12:00

Ok - I've been knitting, and recalculating what I need to knit, in the way of socks.

Needed to be knitted for Christmas: 18 pairs (from future baby up to 15-year-old)...
What I have knitted: 13 pairs.

Extra to be knitted to make complete set for testing my pattern (ie new baby to big foot): 1 extra pair.

So - hopefully this week I will be able to post a photo with them all arrayed - well, the complete set - and the pattern!

Yay!

Cat-urday: wishes

2010-09-18T04:04:00.001+12:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Fabulous on a Friday!

2010-09-17T03:28:00.002+12:00

Thanks Noni!

Thoughts for a Thursday...

2010-09-16T08:42:00.003+12:00

This is a long and personal tribute to my Mother.

As promised on Father's Day - thoughts on my mum... Yes, I will occasionally mention Dad - but parents come in pairs who, if you're lucky, support, enhance and allow each other to grow.

From what I've heard, we had a pretty rocky start. But, in my memory, my time with my mum has been precious. My beloved parents learnt from experience (not in my immediate family), so I was never, ever, referred to as 'an accident' - no, I was always a gift, a surprise yes, but a special gift to be treasured and cherished. And this, always, is how I felt.*

While I don't remember much of my early life, I do know that one of the coolest things about my sister's wedding was seeing my mum.#

I once asked Mum about my fondness for KFC chips dipped in potato and gravy. After thinking about it, she said it was where we went for lunch (New Lynn branch) before custody handover. I remember my Christmas present during this time - a dolls' cot. Not so much because of the present, but because Mum gave it to me.

I remember writing to Mum, while she was living in Keri Keri, asking if she'd heard 'Badjelly the Witch' on Sunday morning storytime on the radio. And I remember the letter back - written in yellow ink. Very cool. She had a whole group of young guys - brother and his friends - listening in, and all enjoying it.

I remember when Mum and Dad got back together. I was sleeping in Mum's bed and, one night, I remember waking up as I was being carried through the house. I woke up in the spare bed - where Dad had been sleeping - and I knew that all was right in my world.†

I remember going to school after the holidays and telling EVERY body about my mum coming home. And I remember some kid saying 'but you don't have a mother' - I said 'yes I do, and she's coming home!' I also remember being sad that I couldn't head north to pick her up.

Yeah, sure, we have had our ups and downs. Puberty and menopause in the same house is not a good plan.

And, yes, I hassle the hell out of her now. But she knows that I love her. Hey, you only really hassle / nag / tease those you are so comfortable with you know they won't take things the wrong way.

I admire her strength of character. I am in awe of how she kept it together as long as she did - good choice in partner there, Mum. How do you - physically and emotionally - survive giving a baby up for adoption, marrying and having four children in five years (and at least one miscarriage)¶ then, when you've recovered - getting pregnant again!

I admire the fact she got out when she realised that it was best for us all if she wasn't there. And that she tried, with the best of intentions, to make things easier for us left behind, by turning herself into the baddie.‡

Her honesty - once she realised that she and Dad were heading towards the altar, she told him about her baby. That took courage - it was 1955 after all. And, yay for Dad, he turned up for their next date.§

Since Dad died, things have been tough. But she hasn't really let us in to that. How would we understand? I know she's struggled, though. She lost a huge part of her identity very quicky - within a short time frame (two to three years) both of her parents and her life-parnter died. She has had to reinvent herself as her roles as daughter and wife have gone.

And she's done so.

Bravo Mum.

I love you.

*Even if my sisters called me a spider monkey. [On their first visit with me, I was yellow, covered in black hair, and all limbs, and no body fat - that'll be why I'm about six-months old in my first photos]. Oh, and my nana would say 'every time I see a frozen chicken, it reminds me of what you looked like when I first saw you' - and grandad would say 'you were like a little frog. We didn't think you'd make it]. That's got to affect you - not knowing that your new baby would make it home.
#Being a flowergirl was right up there, though! Yes, that's me in the very cute Hollie Hobby outfit.
†Not so good in my big sister's world, as she had left her bedroom door ajar, and wasn't too pleased about an early morning visit from a very excited little sister to tell her the news!
¶From first pregnancy to the-next-one-up-from-me's birth - all told, just over 6 years.
‡Yes, it did make it hard - for the others - when she came back. But, we made it through. We all loved Dad, and he was happy.
§See, good choice in life partner!

Wonderful Wednesday

2010-09-15T03:41:00.002+12:00

I'd like to think that old Geoff Chaucer really was like this...

Two-fer Tuesday

2010-09-14T03:39:00.002+12:00

Great song - great dance...

Music on a Monday: in memory of Dad

2010-09-13T07:36:00.002+12:00

Another one of Dad's requests...

However, the celebrant didn't think it was appropriate that we played it as people came in to the service. She so didn't get our family humour!

Cat-urday: cat-trap

2010-09-11T14:36:00.000+12:00

Familiar anyone? Moll-ster, of course, waits until the lights are out and/or stairs are involved...

Food on a Friday: my ultimate comfort food

2010-09-10T06:49:00.005+12:00

Rice Pudding
[from Edmonds Cookery Book - first edition recipe, with variations]
Serves 4 [I halve it and it serves me - but this is ultimate comfort food]

Ingredients:
5 Tb short grain rice
2 Tb sugar
3 cups milk
2 to 3 drops vanilla essence
¼ tsp nutmeg

Method:

Place rice and sugar in the bottom of an ovenproof dish.

Add milk and vanilla. Mix well.

Sprinkle nutmeg over the surface. [or grate fresh nutmeg - my preference!]

Bake at 150ºC for 2 hours, stirring two or three times in first hour.

OR: bake at 70ºC overnight, or all day.

Two-fer Tuesday

2010-09-07T06:30:00.001+12:00

Another fun coupling with The Young Ones - and the added bonus of one of the Young Ones quotes that gets stuck in my head... Darling carrot...

Music on a Monday: in memory of Dad

2010-09-06T07:35:00.002+12:00

One of Dad's requests for his funeral...

For Father's day

2010-09-05T07:00:00.004+12:00

Over the years, I've posted a lot about Dad. It's made me think, that I don't post a lot about Mum - so that will change - so she know how important she is, while I can still share with her - rather than you lot, some of whom have never met my parents.

However - today is Father's Day. I'm sure that - somewhere - there are photos of me with Dad after I turned 8 - but not easily found in my life at the moment. However there are a few of us before then.

Thanks family for taking them - in this case, I think most of them would have been Kath.

So - just because I can - photos of me with my Dad, my hero.

Me and Dad - possibly on Kath & Muzz's wedding day

Me and Dad - around Kath & Muzz's wedding day

On holiday in 1978

Probably my last tenting holiday. If you look carefully, you will notice the missing teeth!

In Rotorua with Nana and Grandad [behind the camera, as always] - note the careful leaning
This is also my first - and possibly only! - memory of seeing my Dady in togs!

Food on a Friday

2010-09-03T06:47:00.001+12:00

Those who know me will probably be surprised that I have recipes I like - and actually make. Not the most foodie person in the world - even if I am addicted to Food TV...

Anyhoo - my current fav recipe for lateish-home-and-throw-something-together-cooking...

Alison Holt's Mushroom Soup (from her Soup Book)
Makes 6 servings (I quarter it for me - so not a HUGE serving)

2 medium onions
3 Tb butter
2 cloves of garlic
4 medium (150g) flat brown mushrooms [I will admit to only halving this measurement! The more mushrooms the merrier I feel]
¼ tsp dried thyme [I tend to use mixed herbs, cos that's what I have]
3 Tb flour
2 cups chicken stock or 2 tsp instant stock powder in 2 cups water
½ tsp salt
pepper to taste
1 Tb sherry, optional
1 Tb balsamic or wine vinegar
2 cups milk

Cook the chopped onions in the butter in a large pot, over a medium heat for about 5 minutes until they are lightly browned. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes longer.
Chop the mushrooms finely and add to the onions with the thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Stir in the flour, and cook until it has lightly browned too, then add the stock, or water and instant stock powder, the salt and pepper, sherry and balsamic or wine vinegar. Stir well to mix and bring to the boil, then turn down and simmer gently for 5-10 minutes.
Whisk or stir in the milk, heat until almost boiling, then serve.
VARIATION: If you prefer a smooth, creamier soup, proceed as far as boiling the soup before the milk is added. Pour it through a sieve, catching all the chunky pieces in it. Process / blend these with a little of the strained liquid, and process to a thick puree. Mix this, the strained mix or the milk, then reheat to almost boiling.

Want on a Wednesday

2010-09-01T07:30:00.004+12:00

And, funnily enough - on a similar theme to my last Wednesday want...

Two-fer Tuesday

2010-08-31T05:26:00.002+12:00

Motorhead and a metal classic... and The Young Ones!