tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40451850350455600932012-01-06T02:15:29.938-08:00A weird woman in the Northwest who touches on all sorts of topics from knitting and spinning to cat rescue, sprint car racing to slug battle and gardening plus "who knows what" in-between. <br> Let me know you were here! (Would it kill you to comment?)Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.comBlogger721100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-91088666310935828542007-11-11T17:06:00.000-08:002007-11-11T17:21:48.067-08:00

Poor Hemi looks tired out from helping me work on my Secret of the Stole. Here I've been back and forth from Hint 3 into Hint 4 and so on far too many times. The cool thing is that just a few weeks ago, I wouldn't have noticed my errors. Worse? I wouldn't have bothered to "fix em". I just would have incorporated em into the project and thought of em as my own interpretation of the design. I know

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-55888171665166479612007-11-05T18:49:00.000-08:002007-11-06T09:11:39.277-08:00

So...my friend calls me yesterday and casually mentions that she'll send a bag of yarn home when the Old Man comes by. And THIS is that bag. It looks innocent enough. It's just a bag of yarn...right? But...that's an awfully big bag! Hmmm...peeking inside, there's a whole lot of varigated and rug yarn. Wonder what else is in there? With my friend Janet, there's no telling! Wowsers! That's a whole

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-4477915858101885612007-11-04T21:13:00.000-08:002007-11-05T18:49:24.326-08:00

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-58484175218732154332007-11-03T19:52:00.000-07:002007-11-03T20:03:28.991-07:00

I got a few things done today...like setting up the canopy so I could split firewood in the rain without getting wet...like trying to learn how to pick and clean Dungeoness crab meat and then catching the dog scarfing down about a pound of it...and some knitting.Yes, I finally finished Hint 3 of our Secret of the Stole KAL. This is one pretty piece of work and I can't wait to see what else

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-81994005849097626052007-11-02T21:28:00.000-07:002007-11-02T22:13:39.053-07:00

I've had a busy couple of days. That's a good thing...boredom sucks. But honestly? I am seldom bored...there's just too much living to do! It's been a fibery few days for me...I got to visit our newest yarn shop: Apple Yarns, right in Bellingham. This shop is a MUST VISIT if you're in the area! Unfortunately, I tend to spend a wee bit of money every time I go but I've not been too awfully naughty

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-11016386132197267912007-10-27T10:59:00.000-07:002007-10-27T11:05:17.415-07:00

We're all hearing about the wild fires in San Diego and of how many folks are losing their homes, their memories, everything. Offer a helping hand by joining me in making 8 inch squares to be joined with love into blankets for these people. Any machine-washable non-allergenic yarn (say...that Red Heart stuff in the back of your stash?) is perfect. It'll be quick, easy and while it makes you feel

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-20135039412660065812007-10-24T19:05:00.000-07:002007-10-24T19:25:11.367-07:00

Sorry about the slightly blurry pic but it's the best Puddha Kitty and I could manage today. Yes, that's my Secret of the Stole he's sprawled on. And yes, he's making it clear to me that I've done enough on it for now. No matter that I'm only on row 201 and the next Hint is released tomorrow. No matter that I really was on a roll and wanted to keep going for a bit. But...he was probably right. I

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-77582520550842661352007-10-19T12:54:00.000-07:002007-10-19T12:56:51.862-07:00

In case this doesn't make any sense, read the last part of the previous post.Now, break time. I'm off to the Library. A few months ago, I saw this book on lace work...

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-6172888088739670142007-10-19T10:38:00.000-07:002007-10-19T11:04:45.262-07:00

Completed. In my own twisted way, of course but Hint 2 of The Secret of the Stole is done. Just in time for Hint 3. Seriously. Just as I clicked to add my photo and post to the Group that I had finally finished the 2nd Hint, my email alerted and poof! There was Hint 3. Waiting. Mocking. Pointing at me...the World's Worst Lace Knitter. Oh, and the World's Slowest Knitter too. Aack, it's all good.

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-51433840709010684872007-10-10T15:47:00.000-07:002007-10-10T16:04:13.320-07:00

The Bad News is that the Old Man whacked out his back again. His surgery in late Feb. was immensely helpful in relieving pain and enabling movement. But a few days ago, he walked HARD into an immoveable object at work and jarred a couple of bad vertebrae out of place. Today, he was unable to get up to even think about leaving the house for work so he's been home with me and the critters. Of

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-32743273859973457792007-10-09T15:59:00.001-07:002007-10-09T16:19:35.437-07:00

Wink Wink - I started my version of the Secret of the Stole 9 times just to make sure it was correct. Yeah, right! But at least I know it's ok now. Notice I didn't say "right" because I'm just not sure - that's a lack of confidence showing, huh. It's all good - I'm learning SO much! Look, you can see my notes to myself...like writing down exactly where I put in the latest lifeline. Oh, and using

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-88286214176340719012007-10-09T15:43:00.000-07:002007-10-09T15:58:16.783-07:00

I've found new treasure! Well, truthfully? I found this a couple weeks ago but wasn't able to actually farm it out until today. It's a Utility Cart - Timothy Lawrence the Lawn Tractor has a new play buddy. I'm just tickled. Now, all the stuff I was dragging around by hand, smacking myself in the glasses with tree branches and huffing and puffing with the wheelbarrow...I'm cartin' it now!And look.

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-60243190901595544902007-10-05T19:53:00.001-07:002007-10-05T20:15:14.011-07:00

Ass deep in the Frogging Pond again. Sigh. I spend entirely too much time in there. At least I have proof that I AM able to follow a pattern and that I CAN use a chart and that I can even do modified lace work. I'm just an easily distracted idiot who worries too much about saving electricity and therefore knits in the dark. And now this after all I went through this morning just to get started.

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-3902506402488415952007-10-05T12:45:00.000-07:002007-10-05T13:14:06.925-07:00

This is what I'm supposed to be doing...sorting and organizing all of these sockets for one of our many tool boxes. Sneakers; our "antique" dog of 17 years, agrees and is patiently waiting for me to join her on the floor. In the mean-time, she's helping by mixing up the 3/8 inch drive with the 1/4 inch drive and making sure the metric and standard ones are all well blended - again. Sigh.But THIS

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-38966138578245913022007-10-04T10:39:00.000-07:002007-10-04T11:10:52.016-07:00

I'm so far behind, I think I'm back in 1st place! Actually, with this, our first storm of the season still hanging around...the focus is starting to shift indoors. I'm thinking it's the shift that's making me feel behind and somewhat out of sorts.OK, to begin the "catching up": note the Progress Bars have been adjusted. The Baby Blanket That Won't End will be gift-wrapped today - so it's gone

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-19649191678647244682007-09-25T19:57:00.000-07:002007-09-25T20:17:20.329-07:00

Catching up here as there's been a whole lot happening but not a lot to show for it. Doncha just hate that? You work your fanny off but when you step back and look at the source of your sweat, the only thing you feel is frustration. Grrr. Anyhoo, you might have noticed my progress bars to the right are all wonky. Well, it's not the bars - it's the projects. Let's see...the Baby Blanket is done

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-61516798682197544422007-09-18T19:54:00.000-07:002007-09-19T08:49:49.777-07:00

I've written previously about working on my "wood pile". That's because - when you heat with wood, you need to have wood and you need to store it properly. Well, it's been rather chilly here the past couple of days and it got me to thinking about finally digging out/clearing/building/stacking my wood pile. This is what I was starting out with...a week or two's wood but in the "tall-as-me" grass

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-9658305592750792072007-09-16T19:39:00.000-07:002007-09-16T20:27:22.529-07:00

I love a rainy day. They mean I can light up the wood stove and stay inside with my knitting and other fun stuff. I was in need of some stitch markers and had finally dug out my beading supplies from the storage loft so it became a "stitch marker making" kind of afternoon. Here's some of my ideas that sort of put themselves together......These swirly red glass beads are so cool! Hand-made and

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-28048411319420540272007-09-14T12:02:00.000-07:002007-09-14T12:22:30.377-07:00

In recognition of my new Progress Bars (to the right in the sidebar), for which I thank Yarn Tomato...here is the infamous Moebius Cowl. Yes, I'm way late in jumping onboard the moebius boat but hey, better late than never, right? Besides, I just love Love LOVE this yarn and it's taken a few frogging adventures to find out what it wanted to become. At first, the whole cast-on and progress fought

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-25302470664761241042007-09-10T16:58:00.000-07:002007-09-10T17:11:18.942-07:00

Having a totally detached lazy sort of day here. I should be looking for my box of beading supplies for the perfect beads to use on my SotS KAL stole. I should be working on the wood pile at the side of the driveway. I could be working on cleaning up my fiber den/craft room. I could be giving the bunnies a hair cut. Instead, I will probably curl up in my favorite Mama Bear chair with the

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-90151085046776468682007-09-09T15:02:00.000-07:002007-09-10T08:50:52.307-07:00

Alrighty then - I've been a swatching fool. This is the new colorway - it's called Mist. I sort of like it but it's not at all something I would have chosen for myself. But...I cornered my fav gal at the ole LYS and a poor unsuspecting customer (her husband wisely hid behind the chunky yarn while this was going on), and they were both just adamant that this colorway is perfect for me. It reminds

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-13912398240294213512007-09-07T10:47:00.000-07:002007-09-07T11:14:49.609-07:00

The perfect yarn has found me! Well, as soon as I decide which of these 3 colors it is - LOL. (Oh, and this is for my very own - not to give away - Secret of the Stole KAL). The yarn itself is a Jamieson's Sprindrift Shetland. It's a 2 ply to hold stitch definition and it's in fingering weight. I seem to remember that it's about 14 wpi whereas the lace-weight I first chose was about 32 wpi. Funny

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-26988051891809309352007-09-06T20:46:00.001-07:002007-09-06T20:47:49.737-07:00

Secret Swatch for Janet's Stole Originally uploaded by vykky3630 OK...here's my second try on selecting a yarn and doing up a swatch for the SotS KAL. It's a sport-weight but it feels rather fine to my clumsy fingers - lol. It's quite soft though (as a 50% acrylic/50% merino wool) and knits up pretty nicely. The colorway is called "Marina", which should appeal to our noble leader;

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-59741686689100091392007-09-06T18:06:00.000-07:002007-09-06T20:28:01.564-07:00

Are you overwhelmed with zuchinni from your garden? Has your elderly neighbor been giving you those monster zucs that are as big around as a softball bat? Well, here's the recipe to beat all recipes for Zuchinni Bread...with options too!3 eggs - organically raised are the best!1 cup vegetable oil - a better quality is good and canola is best2 tsp vanilla extract - and not the cheap imitation

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-63509100099022162102007-09-06T14:44:00.000-07:002007-09-06T15:06:38.863-07:00

My "Techno Weenie" self has climbed out of her closet for a brief appearance. I've allowed her to post here a few of my favorite reference charts. This first one (to the left) is a Conversion Chart - handy for taking centimeters to inches and such. I use this one more than I thought I would for more than knitting projects.This next chart will be useful to you fellow dye pot fiends. It helps

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-85360738102918039102007-09-03T09:41:00.000-07:002007-09-03T10:10:17.802-07:00

So, here I am - admitting that biting off a big ole chunk of lace project is a bit more than I can chew. No worries - calm down...I'm still going to do and am extremely excited about the lace KAL Secret of the Stole...I'm just going to try it in a fingering or even worsted weight yarn first. Let's see if I can make sense of this for you...I've always preferred larger yarns and have done most of

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-61878420481044477812007-08-29T14:41:00.001-07:002007-08-30T02:44:24.616-07:00

OK, I am going to admit here and now that my "stash" is a bit out of hand. It's not that it's "so big" or anything...far from it. But this first pic shows just how un-organized it all is. This is all yarn...in the large grey tote, the bags spilling open on top of the tote, the big red tote next to the large grey tote, the cardboard box on top of the big red tote, the box next to it...well, you

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-19717122413341633322007-08-28T14:12:00.000-07:002007-08-30T02:51:12.142-07:00

The latest area to be cleared on our 4 1/2 acres. This patch was only about 20 foot by 40 foot max but the grass, weeds and blackberry brambles were as tall as me - about 5 feet. I used just my leather gloves, a pair of hand pruners and lastly, my trusty steed; Timothy Lawrence the Lawn Tractor. (T.L. the L.T. - get it? Yeah, I'm OCD and name my vehicles and more important tools - deal with it).

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-91102950650217124622007-08-27T14:10:00.000-07:002007-08-30T02:53:00.955-07:00

Matt and Nikki Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Sunday night - his birthday - our dear friend Matt had his last ride on this earth. I'm crying as I type this because it need not have happened. Now, I'm all for pro-choice when it comes to motorcycle helmets. Many of my friends and Elders wish the law did not require they wear one. But, those same damned restrictive laws might have saved

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-4283041054256903572007-08-27T12:36:00.000-07:002007-08-29T12:39:34.324-07:00

Kitty Cafe? Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Glancing out the slider the other day, I saw "The Boys" comfortably ensconsed in the patio set. With each of them in their own chairs; Chancey on the left and Puddha on the right, it looked to me like they were seated at their favorite cafe waiting for a waitress. I admit I have an over-active imagination but I can just hear them now...Puddha:

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-25884575605968224992007-08-25T12:21:00.000-07:002007-08-25T12:28:32.131-07:00

I've finally joined a KAL! I can't tell you how excited I am since I missed out on the MS3 knit-along...I pouted while following several folks' progress - sigh. This one is led by Nautical Knitter and she already has folks signing up and buttons too. Sounds like it may have beads to knit in with it - gulp. (Dangerous knitting learning curve ahead!)I'm off to dream and drool over yarn pr0n...as

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-78178490232048389802007-08-24T12:11:00.000-07:002007-08-29T12:25:35.470-07:00

I'm trying something new here - well, new for me. I'm hoping to get this short (17 seconds) video to work so as to help my non-racing readers to understand what it is I do every Friday night. You see, I'm not just a racing fan and a part of a racing family...I am also an Official at our local high-banked clay oval track here in the NW. My position is at the Pit Gate. At smaller tracks, like ours

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-41579360289669719732007-08-21T13:54:00.001-07:002007-08-23T18:45:12.318-07:00

Frog It or Finish It Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Butt-deep in the Frog Pond this morning. Have finally accepted that this gorgeous yarn is not destined to be a feather and fan dresser scarf. Instead, it will be cast on later as my first attempt at a Mobeius. Woohoo!Simple Feather and FanUsing a multiple of 6 plus 3 at each side for the edging.Row 1: knitRow 2: k3, p to last 3, k3Row

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-25944572306087418182007-08-21T13:51:00.001-07:002007-08-23T18:45:12.318-07:00

Canning at the "Done" stage Originally uploaded by vykky3630 There's lots more to be done but so far, we have a couple dozen jars of blackberry jam, some low-sugar preserves and apple-pie-in-a-jar. In a couple of days, there will be another wave of these huge Himilayan blackberries ripe so I'll be doing more preserves then. I prefer the preserves over the jam since I use half the sugar

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-75084855513989814302007-08-21T13:44:00.001-07:002007-08-23T18:45:12.319-07:00

Canning at the "Doing" stage Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Canning leftovers include jars that didn't seal which are immediately made up into fresh apple pies! And yes, I make a hell of a mess when I can...don't you? Apple Pie in-a-jar Recipe (Makes about 7 quarts)28 cups home-grown (free is best!) apples; sliced and peeled1/2 tsp nutmeg4 1/2 cups sugar1 tsp salt1 cup cornstarch10 cups

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-39244383626577612252007-08-20T09:20:00.000-07:002007-08-20T10:05:31.155-07:00

I am a Bad Blogger. And yes, I feel that should be in caps as a "title" of sorts. I really need to get myself into a more regular blogging schedule of any kind, huh. Oh well, at least while I've not been blogging, I've been busy doing other stuff. Like...spending far too much time at the L&V Daily Chum. Along with my morning coffee and usually with the Freaky Kitty on my lap, I sip and click and

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-17167913724523331542007-08-09T21:14:00.003-07:002007-08-09T21:18:40.666-07:00

Baby Wrap N' Play Blanket Originally uploaded by vykky3630 I always have one or two projects going out of a big box/commercial yarn that I can drag out to the race track without worry. (I mean, how many people do you see knitting at a dirt race track? Yup, one. Me.) Anyhoo, the is a super chunky yarn - polyester and washable wool - that is becoming a very thick blanket for the

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-54982130681013688892007-08-09T21:14:00.001-07:002007-08-21T19:40:23.645-07:00

My First Socks are Started! Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Finally, I've dived into the Sock Pool. All these years of knitting and I've never made socks. Hats, scarves, sweaters, slippers and a lot of blankets but never been even tempted to do socks. But since I've gotten addicted to the Lime N Violet podcasts/blog/Message Board, I had to give in. I gotta tell you though...I really

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-9840049740863082992007-08-09T21:13:00.001-07:002007-08-23T18:45:12.319-07:00

That's a Screamin' Blue Dishcloth Originally uploaded by vykky3630 I'm hoping and trying to teach a friend to knit. I needed a simple one-stitch project to show her with and since she loves bright colors AND this vivid blue matches a swirl on the counter-tops in my kitchen...I had to use it. Such a lovely cotton from Sweden; Cotton Lux by idena the label says. The rest of it is in Swedish

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-88363469834715633492007-08-09T21:11:00.001-07:002007-08-09T21:17:45.827-07:00

Baby Booties to Felt Originally uploaded by vykky3630 My daughter's best friend is having a baby boy in the next couple of weeks. I've seen a lot of gifts for him as my daughter's always asking for help wrapping...which I love to do! But...I haven't seen any booties or slipper-sox! So when I was checking out a new yarn shop, I saw this awesome Galway Paint yarn (from Plymouth Yarns) and

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-39910556689103509192007-08-08T11:52:00.000-07:002007-08-08T13:00:05.673-07:00

Somebody emailed and reprimanded me for not having more knitting on this blog. OK. It's not as if I haven't been knitting...it's more a matter of writing it down and maybe even remembering to snap a pic before I give it away. Hmmm...yes, that's a problem I have. I don't think I even have a photo of any FO's cuz I tend to give them to someone as soon as they're blocked and freshened up. Or...worse

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-32700798789929588902007-07-19T12:25:00.000-07:002007-08-08T12:56:15.425-07:00

Well, maybe not EVerybody but the folks over at LibraryThing sure do have a freaking awesome idea! Seems like this guy Tim came up with the idea of cataloging one's library online. Since lots of folks are creating catalogs and lists and databases online these days, this was a simple step up. The tiny little idea that makes it so cool is that Tim was smart enough to couple with Amazon and gets a

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-24965310574016110882007-07-19T09:54:00.000-07:002007-08-08T12:55:33.146-07:00

This is mini-sprint car racing at it's finest folks! Shown above is "The Salute to Fans" where the cars line up 4 wide and complete a lap as a show of appreciation to all the fans, friends and families who support their racing. I'm a little bit of all 3 as I am an Official at Deming Speedway...my Man drives the Push Quad and my DD helps out either on Push Quad or in selling raffle tickets for

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-47133553525605902812007-07-03T16:42:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:55:11.217-07:00

That's A Lot O' Llama! Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Remember those 2 rescued llamas who shared their "several years old" fleeces with me? Well, that's a 10' X 20' tarp they're spread out on. I've even already picked through the worst parts. Wowser, huh. Oh yeah, I had to climb up onto the roof of the "travel trailer from Hell" to snap this pic. It's done! (More on that soon...must

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-77487621306617956112007-07-01T12:55:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:54:54.660-07:00

Half a Bath or a Bath Halfway Originally uploaded by vykky3630 The plumbing is done and the leak check is negative. Next I'll learn how to install linoleum flooring and create a countertop too. Then I'll install the sink and new faucet and caulk/seal it all up. Almost done...simply can NOT wait to finish this project!

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-81298815286273639092007-07-01T12:53:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:54:36.323-07:00

The Flooring Begins! Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Laminate flooring is in! How lucky I was that there was several hundred dollars worth of ash wood laminate flooring left in their original packages in here. I've got it matched, cut and laid...next will be the carpet. Yup, wall-to-wall throughout the trailer! The sample up against the loveseat platform will be secured as a bumper of

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-64102920429487576512007-07-01T12:46:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:54:15.161-07:00

Happy Bunny Originally uploaded by vykky3630 A happy bunny face if ever I've seen one! She's also turning into a red-head with her bit of exposure to our mild NW sun.

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-5061814158840942842007-07-01T12:45:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:53:55.859-07:00

Now There's a Digging Bunny! Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Believe it or not, this is less than an hour's digging time! Both the bunnies took turns burrowing. I think the cool soil felt good cuz they would just sort of lay there for a minute than back out. I'm letting them dig their hearts out today then will re-trench and re-locate the play yard before their next outing.Remember how

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-34462767987245526172007-07-01T12:14:00.000-07:002007-08-08T12:53:38.343-07:00

First we had my BF's van blow up. No...seriously...it went WhOOsh then burned to the ground. He's fine - just bummed that a piece of his ole hippie days has gone to a better place. Take a look...For those who've never seen a car (or truck or van) catch fire, they burn incredibly fast and completely. When I was with the Fire and Rescue back east, we'd burn the cars after cutting them up (for

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-85076358243777884722007-07-01T12:12:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:53:07.610-07:00

That's Me Marrying Another Couple Originally uploaded by vykky3630 This past Saturday I married Susie and Brian. It is the 2nd for both of them and all of their children were a part of the ceremony. (That's son Joel ducking his head in the bottom corner. He did a fabulous job as the Ring Bearer!). They had each written their own vows and I'll admit to getting a little teary over his...so

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-72887231753760347132007-06-16T15:50:00.000-07:002007-08-08T12:52:47.470-07:00

Alrighty then...the son has graduated and is off to a dual-parent supervised party, has his new cell phone to call with if he needs to (and he has once before - a very cool thing), my Man works for another hour or two and I'm ignoring the "travel trailer from Hell". I'm actually going to take a day off! Well, LOL, not a whole day as it's nearly evening but hey, a night off is progress for me!I'm

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-46892722403913684902007-06-16T15:48:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:52:04.609-07:00

Proud Dad, Grad and Uncle Dan Originally uploaded by vykky3630 What handsome men I'm blessed to be around! Here's a very proud Dad and our son; Joe along with his Uncle Dan. This was snapped before the Entry March for Ferndale High's Class of 2007 Graduation.Woohoo!! He did it! I'm so proud of him!!

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-42293160675598543002007-06-16T15:45:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:51:47.678-07:00

There's No Such Thing as a Free Puppy Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Or as in this case...a free travel trailer. On Mother's Day, we towed home this free gift. It's a 29.5 foot Fleetwood Wilderness Travel Trailer. That's my lovely daughter helping to scrub away the green meanies. It's cleaned up quite well and looks like new...until you see all the water damage inside. No worries, all

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-81370262512792706482007-06-10T15:01:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:51:28.966-07:00

Paco's Wool Originally uploaded by vykky3630 I sure do get myself involved with some interesting fiber! (Remind me to write about the buffalo fluff I'm playing with too!) This is a close-up of some of Paco's wool. You can see that some of his overly long fleece naturally felted while on him. Boy, that must have been hot last summer for him. Yes, there's a lot of VM in there too including

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-1332156661557005422007-06-10T14:57:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:51:11.631-07:00

Length of Llama Wool Originally uploaded by vykky3630 It looks like the overall length of the useable wool from these poor guys is nearly 10 inches long! Remember, these 2 llamas; Gus and Paco, were not sheared for more than 3 years.As I'm sorting, what wool I'm finding to be useable (ie; not felted) is just lovely stuff. Both Gus and Paco have naturally soft wool. I'd like to make their

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-53889629371450931532007-06-10T14:54:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:50:50.306-07:00

3 Bags Full Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Our local free newspaper had an ad in the Freebies section that I couldn't wait to call on: "Free Llama wool, 3 bags full". When I called, bright and early the next morning, I discovered that the lady who had these bags of wool was also the new "Mom" to a pair of rescued llamas. Paco and his field buddy; Gus, who was originally named Aster, now

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-25244308770544078452007-06-10T14:48:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:50:31.980-07:00

Bunny Babysitting Originally uploaded by vykky3630 These 2 lovely Giant German Angora bunnies are the latest additions to our menagerie. This pair is only temporary as we're babysitting while their family is teaching English in China for 9 months or so. (Just long enough for me to enjoy them and harvest some pretty darn nice angora fiber for hand-spinning!) Their names are Bunnadette (

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-52704632209334113992007-06-10T14:43:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:50:12.687-07:00

Pond View Originally uploaded by vykky3630 Around the beginning of May, we finally did it! After more than 8 years of dating and having our separate homes, we moved in as a family! So now there's more than me and the original 4 kitties...we're up to a Fiance, a new 18 year old step-son, their kitty, (who makes 5), their dog and of course, the Bearded Dragon. Oh, and let's not forget the

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-53130350227662947202007-03-17T00:04:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:49:37.741-07:00

Madeline - washed, carded and ready rolags Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Next to the skin soft! And she smells good too! I really think I have nailed the formula for my wool washing liquid soap and just in time for this fleece and her soon-to have-her-turn-in-the-sink sister; Sophie. Here is the first dozen rolags done up. I'm surprised how pale her colors went when diversified by the

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-17995960762032283452007-03-17T00:02:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:49:07.116-07:00

Madeline covers the front deck Originally uploaded by vykky3630. My 8 year Anniversary gift was 2 Romney fleeces from a neat gal up the road. This darker one is Madeline. Although it was only lightly skirted, I still lost just a small amount to ruthless practicality. Her locks average 6 inches and go from deep grey to lighter grayish white to tan to cinnamon brown. I'm going to try both

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-42225618135106481852007-03-16T23:43:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:48:44.867-07:00

IMG_4019 Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Yes, you really can knit with a cat on your lap. Freaky Kitty loves to be on my lap - no matter what I'm doing. I call it her "Freaky Time". Bless her heart...she's not a normal cat in any sense of the word. My daughter rescued her from the recycling center - in a sodden cardboard box in a heavy rainstorm. The note with her was washed out so we

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-77625187188233557852007-03-16T23:36:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:48:01.181-07:00

IMG_4012 Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Chancey and Mr. Giz like to sit and look at each other I guess. Actually, Chancey is into the warm air blowing off the heater in front of the dragon habitat and the dragon, well, he's just nosey. It seems that Bearded Dragons are very sociable creatures and Mr. Giz is no exception. Since he's moving back home in a few days, I drug his habitat out

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-10338909220583908482007-03-16T23:21:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:47:30.374-07:00

Bruno: Baby Alpaca fleece Originally uploaded by vykky3630. My first raw fleece! Yes, that's a kitty tail walking away. The cats aren't too interested in the alpaca smell. I just love it...fresh air, green alfalfa and gentle creature...all wrapped up in an oh-so-soft yet sassy red-headed fleece! He's proving to be an absolute dream to spin too...almost like butter melting in my hands.

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-80291958524819896302007-03-16T23:12:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:47:11.265-07:00

Happy Yarn Cat Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Sweet Girl had way too much fun helping me to frog a really ugly scarf. I had just indulged the Clan with some organic catnip so this was all my fault. But it's all good...I enjoyed it as much as they did!While winding all of this back up and sitting at the computer desk, I was over at one of my favorite Yahoo Groups; Spindlitis. This is an

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-20624508808691540082007-03-16T23:06:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:46:49.219-07:00

Valentine's Cyclamen Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Snugly protected in my little greenhouse, I had fresh blossoms on my Cyclamen for Valentine's Day. By spray-painting water jugs black, I use passive solar energy to keep everything comfortably above freezing temps. Although this was snapped a month ago, the greenhouse now holds about 5 dozen seedlings including 2 full size

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-85124363481512136552007-03-16T23:00:00.001-07:002007-08-08T12:46:13.577-07:00

Nostepinne Progress Originally uploaded by vykky3630. I took this pic a couple days before Valentine's Day and even though I haven't finished either end beyond medium sanding, I'm already using it. Winding a center-pull ball on this tool isn't so hard but making both top and bottom the same sure is a fun challenge! Well, since I'm using it mainly to ply from, that doesn't matter much. And

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-5698576288589170802007-03-16T22:28:00.000-07:002007-08-08T12:45:41.740-07:00

I promise I'll get into a regular posting routine here...honest. It's just that there's been so much going on. From the BF blowing out his back, the Landlords from Hell, the Crazy Neighbors X 2, the BF's back surgery and, oh yes...my baby girl got engaged! We're looking at August 11 for the wedding. Am I really old enough to have a child of marrying age?!? I guess so. Sigh. Well, it's a good

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-5259005760543423652007-02-13T19:16:00.001-08:002007-08-08T12:44:48.394-07:00

Nostepinne Making Originally uploaded by vykky3630. I love making stuff out of wood! Lucky for me, there's a store right in Bellingham called the Re-Store. They recycle building and construction materials. I went prowling last week and found not only this antique stair spindle but also some sweet little cherry wood knobs that are from the 70 year old high school science lab. Here, I've

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-48455854674478696902007-02-13T19:07:00.001-08:002007-08-08T12:44:23.566-07:00

My First Yarn Originally uploaded by vykky3630. I really am pretty ok with this as my first spindle full as I followed direction and didn't sweat making it super fine. Instead, I focused on continuity and smoothness. What I didn't notice/see/know was that in making it nice and snugly smooth, I was also over-twisting it. I practised that Peruvian hand-weave move and then plied it back onto

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-9565789022433716282007-02-13T18:58:00.001-08:002007-08-08T12:43:46.395-07:00

Chancey and the Dragon Originally uploaded by vykky3630. Chancey gets his name from having a Second Chance in life...with me. He was horribly abused as a kitten - the Vet told me to take him home and let him die. Harrumph. I OD'ed him on love instead. 12 years later and I'm all good with calling him "the Man of the house". He loves everyone, barks instead of meows and can only purr a wee

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-49609744594930886302007-02-13T18:49:00.001-08:002007-08-08T12:43:13.411-07:00

2 Beautiful Babies Originally uploaded by vykky3630. I'm proud to introduce Nikki, my lovely daughter! She just turned 21 and I'm a very proud Mom...she's got to be one of the Top 10 All-Time Greatest Kids a parent could want! Here she's cuddling "her" new baby; Ava. Her boyfriend surprised her with this tiny registered Pug puppy. I am hoping it's the only Grandchild I'll have for a

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4045185035045560093.post-69935388300436985362007-02-13T12:09:00.000-08:002007-08-08T12:42:24.212-07:00

It may have been "Momma" but I think it was "Why". So here's the "Why" of "why am I creating a Blog?"Now that I'm learning how to spin my own yarn, I have so much to learn and need to be able to show those kind enough to help me learn what my mistakes are. That and, I'll enjoy venting some, bragging a little and just plain sharing more than you probably want to know.I'll dive right into that

Vykkyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04809094747459079121noreply@blogger.com0