Cast & Bind

New Girls

2010-05-11T22:36:00.000-07:00

Cherry (Dainty Biscuit)
? (Simply Mango)
Sugar (Simply Lilac)
Apple (Enchanted Petal)

And my grail girl, River (Gentle River)!

Now I've got to get to customizing and wardrobing!

New Home

2010-05-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

I've posted pics of my new home here.

I love it here.

Hello friends.

2010-03-18T18:43:00.000-07:00

I'm really sorry I've been so absent here... the truth is I haven't been up to much craftiness, and it might be slow going for awhile. Long story short, Chris and I are splitting, and I am moving to Nevada City in the next couple months...

...which is the good part of all of this. I'll keep y'all updated as I make the transition and get back on track with the makin' of stuffs.

A couple birthday presents!

2010-03-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

Violet Corsage for Amber

(Assorted worsted wool yarns)

Flower Corsage for Jaime

(Assorted worsted mohair & wool yarns)

Flickr Meme

2010-02-05T11:20:00.000-08:00

This meme has been going around the Blythe peeps on flickr lately:

I was tagged by diana (whitefridaynight)!

4 favorite places to shop:
-Anthropologie (even though I can't afford anything there... I like the inspiration)
-Etsy
-Paxton Gate
-Rockridge Market Hall

4 favorite smells:
-pine forest
-almond
-violet
-lemon

4 "things" that make me smile:
-toys
-baby animals
-sweets
-interspecies friendship

4 people tagged for this meme: (see flickr)

Created with fd's Flickr Toys

Happy Birthday, Laika!

2010-02-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

It’s her birthday today… Happy 4th my love!

Click here for more pics ♥

New Friends

2010-01-29T09:53:00.000-08:00

So, these ladies all need names still:

Fairyland PukiPuki Pipi Red Bell

Dollstown Seola (7 year body) and Fairyland LittleFee Ante

Any name suggestions? There are more pics here...
I'm working on some face-ups (painting the faces, for the non-dolly peeps) and a couple custom Blythes are in the works too!

I really am sorry.

2010-01-08T13:01:00.000-08:00

No, really. I have a some good excuses, I swear! 2009 was the worst year of my life, but 2010 is a good number for a new beginning, right? I'm trying to do some evaluation, reorganization, and re-prioritizing of life right now...

Anyway, I'm catching up here now!

Here's some things I made for Xmas:

Mug Cozy for Mom
Knit in KP Main Line from a Knitpicks kit

Stocking for Rhiannon
Commission by her grandparents- knit in Lamb's Pride from a Mason-Dixon pattern. “Rhiannon” BARELY fit. I lined the stocking with polarfleece so the fair isle wouldn’t get messed up with use…

Also, I did start doing that tumblr thing a bit- check it out if you have a chance...

Ready for the cold...

2009-10-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

Mowat Mukluks
Pattern from Interweave.
Knit in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes and
Crystal Palace Yarns Splash Print.
-Please ignore my knees. Good God.-

Hallowe'en Dresses!

2009-10-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

The ladies dressed up for Hallowe'en!

I made these dresses:

And these cat ears:

There's more pics (with pics from the San Francisco Hallowe'en Blythe Meet, too!) here!

My First Blythe Custom!!!

2009-10-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

So, I got into Blythe in the first place because of all of the beautiful custom work I had seen, so I dove in right away! It did take me a lot longer than I thought it would, but that was mostly because of the distractions inherent in being easily distracted by my other thousand hobbies.
-
Before & After:

She began as an ADG Perfect Parfait, already customized... So I suppose my first custom was also my first rescue! That squiggly thing on the side of her face is sharpie or paint pen or something, and the eyelids were painted without opening up the head, so paint was all over the edges of the sockets :( (The before pics were from the seller, not me...)

Much work was done!
Work done: Sandmatted, Pastel Makeup, Painted Eyelids, New Lashes, Sleep Eyes, Gaze Lift, Carved Lips, Eyes, Reshaped Nose, Mohair Reroot, Neemo Flection Body, and Glass Pulls. You prolly have to be into Blythe to know what any of that means.
Her name is Moth now.

More pics here.

Well, well.

2009-10-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

It seems that two of my life long dreams have come true:

1) The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a program where you can spend the night. In the building. I KNOW. I can't even think about this without squealing. *squeal*! See, I told you.

2) Speaking of squealing, I know you have probably already heard, but: tiny piggies. THAT YOU CAN KEEP AS PETS. I have always said that if pot-bellied pigs stayed small, I'd be all over that! Eeeeeep!

Dolly Tea Party. For reals.

2009-10-07T11:19:00.001-07:00

Mini Blythe meet at Lovejoy's Tea Room in SF! It was really lovely... I highly recommend, even if you have no dollies (^_~) Yum yum food and sweet atmoshere- and an excuse to dress up! Flickr set here.

Another one!

2009-09-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Also from Doug & Kathryn ♥

Well, not technically a cuckoo, I suppose... nothing pops out. But the water wheel on the side turns!

New glasses! And haircut! And pincurls!

2009-09-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

I gots me some new glasses.

I was inspired by the glasses on ladies like Anja and Piksi... I tried one like a hundred vintage frames, but they just didn't fit my face right. But we wandered into a store that had a great selection of vintage-inspired frames, and there they were! Yaaaaaaaay!

Also, haircut. I was putting my longish hair up in braids on top of my head for a couple months straight, so it was time to chop. Also, pincurls. I don't think I did them right- they didn't look any different than curler curls, but I suppose it saves time in the morning!

Licca Fun

2009-09-21T11:52:00.000-07:00

My Liccas had a tea party.

There's more pics here!

Welcome to the dollhouse.

2009-09-10T12:46:00.001-07:00

It's getting there... The bedroom & kitchen are pretty much done:

I papered the walls & floors (I made the house from a kit) and added Sylvanian Families furniture and Rement accessories. The Petite Blythes look pretty happy with it, I think. I'm still on the hunt for some living room furniture... and there's a craft room being worked on, too!

Cuckoo! Cuckoo!

2009-09-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

I asked Kathryn & Doug to keep an eye out for me on their frequent antique outings for a cuckoo clock, but I didn't have high hopes- they're so expensive on the 'bay!
But! Look!

A VERY reasonably priced german cuckoo clock! It's so beautiful, people. It works, supposedly, but I don't know how to string the chains through the bottom correctly (I have the pinecone weights, too)... Does anyone know how to do it?
-
So, I had to have one for the dollhouse, too, of course:

More dollhouse pics tomorrow...

Chris's Bday

2009-09-08T12:06:00.000-07:00

Some of Chris's Bday gifts:

Gangs of San Francisco shirt I picked up at Renegade SF... It took me forever to pick one out- every shirt they make is AWESOME. They are all based on historical San Francisco Bay areas and groups.

Snarky Valentines from Owly Shadow Puppets (same peeps I got the Yeti from)! It's a good thing my man has the same sense of humor as me.

Collodian Shoot

2009-09-02T23:11:00.000-07:00

Doug & Kathryn have been taking a lot of collodions lately... they had me model for some:

This one's my favorite:

They gave these three to Chris for his birthday. I love playing dress-up, so don't be surprised if there are more to come!

Astrid & Lindgren

2009-08-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

Astrid got a mini-me version of herself (a Petite Blythe Meowmin)! I asked Chris what to name her, and he said "Lindgren", to which I replied "Huh?" And he said, "You know, Astrid Lindgren who wrote the Pippi Longstocking books", to which I replied "I LOVE YOU."

I read all those books as a kid. Big fan. Anyway, I had put Astrid in this new outfit a couple days before Lindgren arrived, and when I put the two of them together, I pretty much squealed. Because how perfect are they together?!

Mmmmmm cupcake...

2009-08-27T00:03:00.000-07:00

A birthday cupcake for Alison!

She's really lucky the cat didn't get it first.

Pretty Paper Dolls

2009-08-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

The lovliest paper dolls!
From Wool & Water (Amy Earles):

They are unbelieveably perfect...
But of course, I think everything Ms. Earles does is magic.
I will collect all of them as I can!

Fascinating!

2009-08-22T16:19:00.000-07:00

So, I made these fascinators... I made this red one for me:

And this blue one, which was commissioned by my friend Karolyn after seeing the red one:

These photos were taken by Doug & Kathryn Winter (edited a bit by me). And by the by, not much can make me feel fuglier than seeing myself side by side with Karolyn's lovely model (for Karolyn's costuming portfolio)!

So what do y'all think? Should I start making these for Etsy or something?

Why, hello new friends!

2009-08-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

My first BJDs!

Luna is a SoulDoll (Soulkids) Mayu and Kitsune is a Dollzone Fox (modified- his body was switched with the bunny model, so now he's a girl :) ) I need to make some clothes for them- I'll update you when I do!

There's more on my flickr...

Some things.

2009-08-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

I got these goodies at Renegade:

From: The Black Apple (see my previous post)

From Owly Shadow Puppets

Some good stuff.

2009-07-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

Pssst... there's some pretty sweet art at Giant Robot SF right now... If you haven't seen/read any Theo Ellsworth, I highly recommend. We made it to the opening (you can see a bit of me at the end of the slideshow [7/20 post]!) and it's all quite lovely.

-
We were in SF for the Renegade Craft Fair, which was amazing and fantastic... I could have just moved in and been pretty happy. I'm not usually very comfortable with crowds, but there was too much awesomeness to care. If there's one coming to your town, hop right in.

Why, look who's there!

A knit! I know, right?!

2009-07-25T17:32:00.000-07:00

I swear, I am still knitting. But technically, I finished this a really long time ago. I couldn’t for the life of me figure out the crochet edging… I gave it to 3 crocheters and they couldn’t do it either, so I gave up- I think it looks good without it, though.

"Bed Jacket" from Knitting Lingerie Style,

knit in Knit One Crochet Too Angora Soft

So. Much. Finishing. Seaming, embroidering,

crocheted edging… aaaaaaahhhhh…

Happy Anniversary!

2009-07-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

...to me! And Chris! Yaaaaaaaaaaay!

July 16th, 2005

New Pretty!

2009-07-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot to post this, too!

Lovely new pin by Oh My Cavalier!, as modeled by my little fox pal... just when you thought he couldn't get cuter! I was thinking of selling him on Etsy, but I just couldn't part with him, especially since I would have nowhere to store my pin! The gracious Julianna made the pin to order, when I just just had to have the Pet Fox drawing on a simpler pin than she had already for sale... What a sweet piece from a sweet artist.

More Bday!

2009-06-30T12:47:00.001-07:00

Ooooooooo I forgot to post this!

My lovely friend Alison made me a apple cozy and Lemon Drop an adorable beret for my birthday! They are hand crocheted out of cotton perfection!

"What's this?"

"Oh! Lovely gifts!"

Oh, loveliness.

2009-06-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

So, if you haven't seen Chad's (Mon Petit

Fantome) work, check it, please.

This little book is heaven. Full collection of crying animal

prints, with hand lettered title pages? Yes, please.

And these are just pretty:

They're those ones with the liquid inside & floaty

glitter... I still need to find a silver one...

Recent Acquisitions: Birthday Edition

2009-06-17T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hello loves!

Here are some things I have been kept busy with since my birthday:

French Macarons from Chris (I've been craving these for sooooooo long!)

Coraline doll from Doug & Kathryn! I think my lil' Rement dresser is perfect for her!

What can I say? People know what I like. Autographed Judge Judy photo from DeWayne & Christina. You've already seen the painting.

Pullip Cinciallegra from my mama! She needs a name! Anyone? She's already traded shoes with Beatrix...

Not cool, Apple.

2009-06-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

Not cool at all.

Last week:

B-day present from Chris & Chris 'rents

Today:

iPhone 3Gs

I'm a bee!

2009-06-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

Well, busy as one, anyway...

I recently did a painting for Gray Construction, which was fun (and challenging- RUSH job):

I love doing commissions! And this house looks like it will be AMAZING.

Now, if only I can get something for myself done...

Sausalito Blythe Meet Up!

2009-05-31T21:27:00.000-07:00

Kathryn and I went to our very first Blythe Meet Up on Saturday (I'm slowly talking her into taking the Blythe plunge)! It was in lovely Sausalito, which I have never stopped in before, and I would love to go back to again. Everyone at the Meet was so very nice, and I can't wait to go to the next one! Here are some of the pics that Kathryn took (proof versions):

Here is the rest of the flickr set!

Garden-y

2009-05-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

Where I've been most of the time:

Sometimes with a friend or two:

Vegetable Garden

Obitsued Licca

I couldn't wait for the garden to produce, so I had to buy an armload of veggies to tide me over... I made fresh pickled veggies (Italian style):

Nom, nom, nom.

Hello.

2009-05-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been so absent... I seem to get quite busy for someone who should have too much time on their hands... I promise to post more soon! I've been gardening, knitting, dogsitting, show going, painting, tv catching-up-on, puttering, partying, and so on...

-
What I do need to tell you is that you NEED to make this show if you're in the (SF) bay area:

Young Americans
Mills College MFA Exhibition
Mills College Art Museum: May 3 - 31, 2009
KQEDondemand video: Stoked Americans

This is where Chris is going to grad school, but he's not in this show (it's this year's graduates). Anyway, it's seriously the best show in the bay right now, and you only have until the 31st to catch it!

What?

2009-05-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

That's how I roll.

Judge Judy

Oil on Canvas, 8x10

Foxiness

2009-04-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

Psssst.... I made a fox.

He likes to play hide and seek.

I got the pattern from a japanese book, but the instructions were for a solid colored one.

Also, I've been working on the dollies...

Cotton (in green) and my still unnamed J-Doll got new lip paint:

And, I started my first custom Blythe:

Wish me luck!

Bits & Bobs

2009-04-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been up to lately...

Trying out for dream jobs...

Sketches and miniature display for a Display Coordiator job at Anthropologie... I didn't get it :( But I can use the display at home for spring!

Playing with dolls...

In the dollhouse I just finished making! I'll post more/better pics when I get some furniture done. By the by, these dollies still need names. I'm thinking of "Wren" for the Petite Blythe (2nd one)...

Making crazy posters.

Poster I made for my friend Todd's movie (his design).

New and Improved!

2009-04-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Lemon Drop's new dress (with ReMent boots). I had meant to make her candy themed from the beginning, and I finally got to it! She also has a candy striped heart for her new pull. I was a bit put out when I saw the new My Little Candy Blythe, but I like mine better!

Lemon Drop & Astrid (yes, I finally decided) showing each other their new pulls!

Gifty Paintings

2009-03-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

Two paintings, same frame:

This one was for my mom (for her birthday)... Pudge is her Pomeranian/Chihuahua (that's right, pom-chi) and is always with her. It's gouache on paper.

And this one was a commission by Joan, my MIL's best friend, who has a new little nephew! It's oil on canvas.

I'm taken with ovals at the moment... and I love that frame! I may have to go stock up on them at some point. Now I have to get around to painting something for myself...

Bobble Coif: Now with FREE PATTERN!

2009-03-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

I made this headband/hat thing after being inspired by this one worn by Emily (here too). I had to make up the pattern, since there is no Seaplane near me (sad face) and I Had To Have One. I can post the pattern if I get a few requests...

UPDATE!

Here's the pattern:

MATERIALS
1 skein Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted in Aran
#6 DPNs
#7 straights

Tapestry needle

GAUGE
4 sts.=1 inch (exact gauge is not vital)

DIRECTIONS
With DPNs, CO 3 sts.
Work I-Cord for 6”.
Switch to straight needles and begin to work from chart (download here).

When chart is completed, switch back to DPNs and work 6” of I-Cord.
Weave in ends and block.

Please let me know any errors you come across... I've only knitted this once! And I'd love to see any completed projects!

New Girl!

2009-03-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

Lemon Drop getting to know Miss Sally Rice

MSR needs a new name... I'm thinking about Astrid or Lily maybe... suggestions? I think Lemon Drop looks pretty good in the Pullip Greggia outfit I picked up (since I can't afford Greggia!).

Also, I sandmatted Lemon Drop... it turned out really well! My very first custom work... I think I will try carving her lips next. I'm pretty sure I will keep MSR stock, though, I like the Takara shine on her! Thanks to pariszhenpink on TIB for sending MSR my way... I'm in love already.

House•Work

2009-03-12T13:03:00.000-07:00

Chris and Kathryn are having a show opening this weekend! The show is really fantastic (I'm not being biased, really!), and anyone in the Sacramento area should try to make it out. If you haven't done Second Saturday, you're really missing out, so this is the perfect time to start! It will be up the whole month, though, if you can't make Saturday.

The show is at the Viewpoint Gallery, which has a nice slideshow of some of the work.

Kathryn Mayo and Chris Fraser: House•Work
March 11 to April 4, 2009

Second Saturday Reception — March 14, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Tinies!

2009-03-02T12:09:00.000-08:00

Introducing Cotton & Candy!

They are Petite Blythes (originally Squiggly Squirrel and Feline Fancy, mohaired by I Love George, Re-Ment accessories, outfits by me!)... re-named Cotton & Candy by me. I wish I could find some blue/green boots for Cotton's outfit...

She needs a name:

She's a Mini Pullip Anne Shirley (in Squiggly Squirrel's outfit), with Re-Ment and mushrooms knitted by me! Any name suggestions?

Dogs Named Laika

2009-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

I started a flickr group recently for Dogs Named Laika...

You've all seen my ridiculous beast.

So if you know any Laikas... send 'em my way!

Happy Day.

2009-02-14T16:43:00.000-08:00

Knitty Pattern

(imbellished, of course, and worsted instead of fingering)

Valentine's Day gift for Chris...

Beatrix's New Dress

2009-02-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Beatrix needed a dress to wear that isn't a wedding dress...

I decided to go with grey/silver tones because I thought they would go with her coloring really well... I just used scraps of fabric and ribbon I had around.

I'm working on a dress for my Blythe right now... it's candy themed! Of course, you say, if you've ever met me. By the by, I named her Lemon Drop. Perfection, no? Here is a lovely pic of her by the ever talented Doug.

And here is everyone:

I'll have pics of the Mini Pullip & Petite Blythes soon...

Finally.

2009-02-10T10:45:00.000-08:00

Best Friends

16x20 oil on board

I haven't finished a painting since graduating... until now! Yaaaaaay! I have been so engrossed with new hobbies and burnt out on 2D that I just couldn't get anything done, but now I have a new (well, old and re-gessoed) stack of canvases waiting to break the curse. Although I did start a quilt and make some doll dresses last week while staring at said canvases. Wish me luck.

Slouchy Pirates (now with more eyepatch!)

2009-02-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

We Call Them Pirates (pattern here)

My first fair isle!
I added an eyepatch to the middle row of skulls a la vikingmaid on Ravelry.
Sooooo… I had gauge, but I didn’t do a swatch to wash. I know, I know. It grew quite a bit after washing, but I think it looks pretty darn cute slouchy. I’ll just have to check if Tasha likes it that way (it was a request).

25

2009-01-30T16:14:00.000-08:00

I got tagged and posted these on the facebook, but I thought I'd go ahead & put 'em up here, since I don't know y'all there!

Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you

1. I have a sleeping disorder called hypersomnia… it’s like narcolepsy but not as bad. I don’t nod off in the middle of conversations, but I have to be really careful driving if I’m tired.

2. I collect things. Almost anything I decide I like, I collect. Yarn, skulls, jadeite, sweaters, rocks with holes, rocks without holes, dolls, fox-related objects, magazine clippings, pyrex, etc.

3. I am a super nerd. No, even nerdier than you think…I used to go to Ren Faire (No, I did not speak with the accent. I did, however, dress up.) and, as a child, I made several scale models of Star Trek vessels.

4. I didn’t want kids until I was with Chris.

5. I forgot how to ride a bike. They say it’s impossible, but I proved them all wrong. I had an accident, didn’t ride for a couple years, and when I got back on a bike (even though I fully expected to just go), it was like I’d never been on one in my life.

6. I’ve only been drunk once, and it was when I was 30 years old. See, I have a ridiculously high tolerance for alcohol, so I really have to be trying to get drunk… but it’s not worth it. I don’t get silly or fun, just sick. And I’m not keen on the taste. I only like drinks if they taste like candy.

7. Speaking of, I haven’t thrown up in about ten years. I get really nauseated, but no throwing up. I don’t think it’s psychological… I’m not scared of it…

8. I’ve only touched snow once. I’ve seen it out a window a couple times.

9. If I could live anywhere, it would be the UK or Ireland. With my own petting zoo.

10. I wish I could be vegetarian, but I will literally dream about meat if I haven’t had it in awhile.

11. I’m addicted to food. I can’t go a day without it. No, but seriously. And it’s the only addiction you can’t avoid, right? Like, you wouldn’t say to a heroin addict, hey, just have a little bit of the smack… just keep it under control, right? Oooo… I’m hungry.

12. I’m also addicted to TV. Even if I’m not watching it, it has to be on the whole time I’m home. Chris & I made an agreement so he doesn’t kill me, though- I only have it on when he’s home with his OK. It really is an addiction, but I have no interest in stopping. I watch some terrible shows, though. Judge Judy comes to mind.

13. I love music, but I’m not musical. I can’t play an instrument, sing, keep a beat, or dance. I can’t whistle, either, but that’s not because it’s musical, just in addition to.

14. I hate the word “artist”. It makes me cringe. I’d rather say I paint pictures. That sounds douche-y, too, now that I write it. Damn it.

15. I’m not sure I’m an artist (uuuuugh) anyway. I’d rather knit than paint, which is pretty much an indicator, right?

16. If something is miniature, I will probably love it. Furniture, animals, dessert, you get the idea.

17. I have a deep water phobia, but I would like to live at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

18. I’m also afraid of the dark. I’m oddly superstiticious for a borderline atheist.

19. My wedding ring was also my great grandmother’s wedding ring. It’s an alexandrite. Chris went and got it from my grandmother without me knowing, which may be the most romantic thing he’s ever done (you haven’t met my grandma). Heating up water on the stove last week so I could take a bath at our hot-water deficient house may be a close second.

20. I’m thankful every day. I think about how lucky I am every day, for every meal, pet, warm room, relationship, etc. I have.

21. I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up.

22. Sometimes I cry if I’m having a bad day and then someone is nice to me.

23. I am a pessimist, but in a pretty optimistic way… see, I just assume the worst will happen at all times, then when it doesn’t, it’s like Christmas!

24. You know how people like to say they’re young at heart? Well, I’m old at heart, I think. I have hobbies like knitting and sewing, collect tchotchkes, watch show like Monk, and have a penchant for dressing in a lot of cardigans and sensible shoes. Chris argues that he is much older at heart, but I think I’m pretty good competition.

25. Everything it seems I like’s a little bit stronger, a little bit thicker, a little bit sweeter, a little bit fatter, a little bit stranger, a little bit harder, a little bit harmful for me. Ok, those are song lyrics, but it pretty much sums it up.

Louisa Harding at Babetta's!

2009-01-21T12:56:00.000-08:00

This morning I got to meet the incomparable Louisa Harding

at my favorite yarn store, Babetta's...

She was doing a book signing and had stacks of knitted samples from her books:

They were amazing... I really wanted to just put all of them on at once, or maybe just roll around in them. I was pretty tempted to pick up all of her books, but my knitting diet prevailed :(

Louisa was very sweet and friendly... she told everyone about learning to knit and design, brought mock-ups of her next couple books (which I want to knit pretty much every project in), and complimented my hat!

I met some lovely people and had a lot of fun. By the by, if you haven't been to Babetta's, you must. It's the friendliest yarn store I've ever been to and the selection is amazing (and lucky me, it's local!).

Another one.

2009-01-19T12:39:00.000-08:00

Another neckwarmer...

Celtic Cable Neckwarmer

Yarn: Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande, Pattern: here

I swear I am happier about this neckwarmer than I look in the picture. I unraveled an old cable cowl that was a bit too small a bit too plain for me... I've made so many plain scarves that I've given away or abandoned. So now, I've been playing a little catch-up since I don't actually have many scarves to wear... and no black scarf! That's crazy talk.

Though I could just wrap Black Kitty around my neck...

He's certainly long enough.

I like dolls! You wanna make something of it?!

2009-01-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

So, I've been wanting a Pullip doll for a few years, and this year I needed some retail therapy, so I took the plunge... It took me awhile to get up the courage/funds for such a thing. Chris is none too happy.

Pullip Erternia

I ordered her from The Valley of the Dolls, who had super fast shipping and super cute packaging... it was like a present!

In her box.

Getting her hair redone... it was really messy out of the box.

I named her Beatrix (after Beatrix Kiddo), since she's The Bride... get it? Chris said, damn, that thing is creepy, to which I said, wait 'til you see Blythe! I'm going to make her an outfit soon, but I can't decide on whether to go with grey/green tones or a Snow White-ish fairy tale thing. Maybe both, huh? But which one first?

J-Doll Malecon Avenue

I had a hard time deciding between a Pullip and a J-Doll, but after I ordered Beatrix, I saw this one on the TIB forum... She was nude, so I made her this dress. It's not perfect, but it was my first try... The J-Dolls have the exact same bodies as the Pullips, just different heads, and Blythe patterns fit both. She needs a name... suggestions?

Blythe Frosty Frock

And I tried to resist Blythe, but no such luck. I'll admit, she creeped me out at first, but after trolling the Blythe group on Flickr, I fell in love. I keep seeing my favorite bloggers (here, here, here) falling under the spell, too! I had to wash her hair several times (it was super frizzy and icky). I want to do a few mods to her- sand matte her face, first of all. She needs a name, too... I think something icy, snowy, wintery... what do you think?

Thanks True Up & Pink Chalk!

2009-01-11T20:29:00.000-08:00

This was awhile back, but I just realized that I never posted pics...

I won a $100 gift certificate to Pink Chalk Fabrics from True Up!

I tried to save it for when I had a project lined up, but I'm an instant gratification kinda gal. Here's what I got:

They are very courteous and friendly and have the most lovely selection of designers...

These are the stack packs I got... on the left is "Sugar Snap" by Melissa Averinos and the right is Amy Butler's Daisy Chain (in the pink colorway). They will be quilts at some point. You know, when I learn to quilt. Don't look at me like that. It'll happen.

These are the single pieces... mostly 1/2 yards, some full. I don't have any specific plans for them yet- an apron or two for sure, Blythe/Pullip clothes (more on those ladies soon), Nutcracker Dolls, small things like that. I'd love some suggestions!

I have so!

2009-01-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

See, I have been knitting!

Pattern: winged

Yarn: Jo-Ann's Marvel (unraveled from old skinny scarf)

Pattern: Holding Hands, Feeding Ducks (buttons added)

Yarn: Araucania Aysen (Colorway 804)
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I have just been pretty distracted from knitting lately... I have a couple more projects in the works right now (as always) and a few abandoned:

Sweater #9 from Rebecca #33 (too big, wrong yarn I think)

Xmas Sigh...

2008-12-29T19:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it's over... and we're finally home!

Here are the last of the Xmas pics (I hope)...

Jamie's present... a bookbag/accessory set- not quite as good as the gift she gave us- she took Chris & I to Of Montreal, which was for sure added to the Top 5 shows of all time for me. The image set I used was from the lovely Danielle Thompson, here.

Xmas candy gifts, 'cause we be poor. And it wouldn't be Christmas without me trying to throw my back out over ridiculously involved food gifts... There is peppermint bark, fudge, peanut butter balls, and spiced nuts in there. Cute Martha packaging from Michael's.

Cranberry Orange Vodka

I'm big on the food gifts... surprise...

Table set for Xmas brunch for my fam. My new tablecloth is so freaking adorable that I want to leave it out year-round! I suppose I feel that way about all our holiday decorations, though. The Roseville castle has been leaving their lights on year-round... maybe I should join in...

Swedelicious!

2008-12-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

This Christmas I decided to make some Swedish themed decor... Every Xmas Eve in my life has been spent at my Swedish grandmother's (and non-Swedish grandpa, but you know, he didn't decorate) house, until this year (Chris & I have decided to start switching locations year to year instead of trying to do both family celebrations). Anyway, I decided to have a brunch for my family before we leave town to make up for it, and thought I needed some Sweden in the house for it...

Swedish Hearts

Wool felt with blanket stitch edging.

This year's Christmas Cards

I carved a block for printing these and finished them with stardust pen details.

For non-Swedes, the Julbock (or Yule-goat):

"is a ubiquitous symbol of the winter holidays in Scandinavian countries"... continue at Altreligion

Now, it's mostly thought of just as a cute Xmas decoration, though...

Lucia Doll

This is the first doll I've made with yarn hair, which was a bit tricky, but she really have to have the braids. The crown-wreath is loop knotted yarn with felt/tiny pom-pom candles. And she's even got Dala horses on her tights!

"Lucia Day, December 13th, initiates the Christmas season by marking the beginning of brighter days to come in Sweden. It is customary that the eldest daughter as Lucia... dresses in a long white gown with a red sash around her waist and wears a crown entwined with sprigs of myrtle greens on her head. Five or seven lighted candles in the crown spread a luminous glow around her."
-American Swedish Institute
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Next year, I'll make some tomte... I just ran out of time...

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2008-12-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

...sweetness.

Invites to my fam for a Holiday brunch... made with Martha Stewart stamps- on my new (repro) Christmas tablecloth... I'll post another pic of it, I'm sure.

Our outdoor wreath... it's very sparkly. I bought the base wreath (which is glittery and has pinecones and dried leafy stuff) and put silver sparkly leafy stuff in it... Here's a pic you can see it better in:

Yes, White Kitty is trying to eat it.

I leave it up all winter, since it's not strictly "Christmas-y".

Our indoor wreath. Hmmm... as I look at it now it doesn't seem terrible Christmas-y either. Maybe I should leave it up all year! I made it years ago, with a grapevine base, moss, sparkly fruit, leaves, berries, and glitter.

Both wreaths have a Labyrinth-y (as in the movie) look to me... natural, mossy, glittery... sigh.

We don't have a mantle/fireplace, so I started using our new (to us-thanks D&K!) entertainment center as such.

My Grandma gave me this a couple weeks ago... it's been up at her house every Christmas for as long as I can remember and I love it sooooooo very much. I'd hug it if it were more cuddly.

I lucked out! I was explaining to her how Ebay works & told her I had been looking for a tree like that one there, and she said something along the lines of "that thing? You can have that! Take it home today!". Yaaaaaaaaaay.

This is a cardboard ornament I just finished painting... I made a hole in the bottom so you can poke a tree light though to make it light up. There are more handmade ornaments a couple posts down...

The whole tree. Sorry it's not a great view, but honestly, it's shoved between three pieces of furniture, and I just couldn't get a good shot. You get the idea, anyway, right?

Next up, I'll be posting more X-mas stuffs... all along the Swedish theme! Yaaaaaaaaay Sweden! Uh, you'll see.

For Alanah

2008-12-02T23:18:00.000-08:00

Sweater set for Alanah Armijo:

She's Chris's cousin's baby-to-be... due soon!

I finished this awhile ago, but I had to wait

until after the shower to post it.

I hope I get a modeled pic!

Craft Night!

2008-11-28T21:57:00.000-08:00

Well, Craft Night was last weekend, but I haven't had a chance to upload the pics until now... It was Holiday themed, to get a head start and all that... Anyway, it was definitely the most productive one ever- most of the time we had ended up just hanging out, which is fine, but you know, less productive.

See, boys can come too! Chris is always looking for buddies to avoid the crafting. But these boys wanted to craft, too! In your face, Chris! Uh, I love you.

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We started with making some paper ornaments:

That one's mine- I made it ahead of time.

This one is Jamie's.

Chris forgot to take a pic of Kathryn's, but I will add it later if I can get one...

I got the instructions from Heather Bailey ("Paper Globes" under "Free Patterns"). They're super easy- I highly recommend. I've seen them done with different edging, too... something to try later.

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Then we made clothespin dolls... I got the idea from Allsorts here (there are non-holiday Allsorts ones here, and a whole flickr group of different ones here). I bought the supplies ahead of time and glued together the three main pieces so they would be ready to paint.

Jamie's!

Mine (I didn't finish until everyone left, though)

Natalie v. Bob!

Doug v. Kathryn!

As you can see, much fun was had by all. There are few more more pics here. I hope to get another Craft Night together soon, and I have some more holiday crafts to post! Soon...

New Model

2008-11-23T19:55:00.000-08:00

Olivia's here! Olivia Mary Williams

Thursday, November 20, 2008

She wore the hat I knitted her home!

Quite a perfect little model, I think.

Congratulations, Beth & Jimmy!

Sweetness

2008-11-18T11:36:00.001-08:00

Dear "New" Boots,

Thank you so much for being awesome.

Love,

Jessica

Vintage Italian Boots from Ebay

Black and white and gorgeous all over...

2008-11-12T18:34:00.000-08:00

I have obtained two prints somewhat recently that I realized I haven't blogged...

One from the amazing Elsita (Elsa Mora) that I haven't taken my own pic of, but it's on my wall right now:

I matted it in red with a black frame... I love it so much. Check out all of the tiny little hiding animals! I really want to buy out her entire Etsy store.
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And more recently I got this print from lalalaika (Donna Enticknap):

I contacted her after seeing this image on Flickr & had to have a print... she has more available if you contact her there. It's absolutely beautiful... it even has little hand-touched gold highlights! And check out that little hand-drawn thank you that I got with it! How did she know about my fox obsession?

Autumn Happiness

2008-11-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

Kathryn's birthday is today & these were her presents:

Vintage Salt & Pepper Shakers

(She collects shakers)

Acorn Earrings

(I might have to make myself a pair of these, too!)

I suppose you can tell I'm in a Autumn-y mood...

Here's my Thanksgiving tree:

I actually put it out in September, sans turkey ornaments, but the Halloween tree goes up in between...)

The Porch:

I have a thing for acorns.

I also must add how very happy I am... I'm so proud of our country today- there will be so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving! Huzzah! <Picture me doing the Snoopy dance>

It is a bittersweet victory, though... I'm proud of the US, but disappointed by my love, California. Prop 8, people? Really? I suppose we're made huge strides lately towards erasing bigotry, but it looks like we've got a lot more work to do, and soon.

Maude!

2008-11-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

Here's my costume:

Don't know who I am? Don't worry, no one else did either...

Maude! As in Harold & Maude, if it's been awhile. I carried the DVD in my pocket... I really didn't expect anyone to recognize me. One person actually guessed it, but really I blame Chris for not being my Harold. He's a pooper. Of the party variety. There are more pics of other peeps costumes here... some are out of control cute... I'm looking at you, Panda with Baby Panda.

Hallowe'en!!!

2008-10-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

I loooooove Hallowe'en... it's my favorite holiday, really, even though that is based more on childhood memories than actual current celebrations. My fondest memories of childhood always include Hallowe'en: roaming the streets in a pack of kids (after dark!), getting to dress up as a fairy princess in public, pillowcases filled near to the top with way too much candy to ever finish... Kids don't get to do all this much anymore- it seems that the majority end up at parties, school functions, etc., which I'm sure is fun too... but it couldn't possibly be as fun. Or maybe I'm just suffering from nostalgia overload.

Believe it or not, I didn't finish all the decorating I wanted.

Hallowe'en Tree.

Yes, I have a tree for pretty much every holiday.

Bat & pumpkins knitted this year.

Candy Bucket.

I made this last year to hang on our door after we went out.

I'd decorate the whole house if I could, but my laziness always wins out in the end.

Close-up of the wreath.

I made it with a cheap grapevine wreath, a black feather boa and a fake crow from the craft store.

I like white pumpkins... they're like the ghosts of orange pumpkins, and therefore scarier. Right?

I will hopefully have pics of my costume after Friday... not of Chris's though, as he is a big party pooper and never dresses up.

Top 5.

2008-10-24T21:46:00.000-07:00

My Top 5 Pets...

as in, the top 5 that I don't have, but want desperately.

As in, I can't actually talk Chris into bringing these home...

(in no particular order)

Pygmy Hedgehog

Fennec Fox

(That's right. A fox. That you can keep as a pet. I KNOW.)

-
Miniature Pony
(They're dog-sized! Ahhhh!)

Bunnies
(one Angora)

(...and one Dwarf)
-

Sheep/Goats
(I put them together because they're pretty close, really...

except personality-wise... sheep pretty much hate people.

Mine will have to get over it. Because I will hug it. Daily.)

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And I leave you with this:
In case you haven't already died from cute.

(All pictures from Cute Overload)

The 2nd Annual Mills College MFA Table-Tennis Mac-Off Tournament of Champions Winners!

2008-10-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

We won one part!

Last Friday, I won the Mac & Cheese cooking contest for Chris...
(Mine's in the pink casserole)

As you can see, there was some pretty stiff competition:

Not only is that a baked tower of mac, it was also set on fire. That's right. Fire. Every entry was fantastic, though. I pretty much could have eaten all night long. Altogether, I think there were nine entrys, including one plate of bacon. Just bacon. It took fourth place.

Unfortunately, neither Chris nor I were any match for Doug's prowess in both the Table Tennis and Pellet Shooting arenas... Congrats, Doug, on winning Master of Arts!

The lovely and amazing Gina took these pictures... thanks to her for that and the use of her oven for reheating the mac I carted from Sacramento. Speaking of, there were some recipe requests, so I've posted it below... The original recipe came from Kathryn (thanks Kathryn!), but I modified the hizzy out of it. Here's my version:

Serious Mac & Cheese
16 oz. pasta (I like mini penne) - cooked al dente
2 cups cottage cheese (whole) - creamed
8 oz. sour cream (whole)
3 eggs - slightly beaten
1/2 of a whole nutmeg - freshly grated
salt & pepper - to taste
6 cups cheese (I like 1/2 & 1/2 sharp cheddar and
gruyere) - freshly grated*
*I avoid pre-grated cheese in general because
of the extra additives and weird texture...

Preheat your oven to 350°. Mix the cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, nutmeg, salt & pepper in a large bowl until well blended. Mix in the grated cheese (reserving 1/2 to 1 cup for the topping), then the cooked pasta. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour - until top is nicely browned. Eat, eat, eat.

That's it! You don't even have to make a roux! Yaaaaaay!

For Olivia!

2008-10-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

Our good friends Beth & Jim are due in 4 weeks!

Beth's shower was yesterday and these were part of her present:

Mossy Jacket (modified to make newborn sized)

Seed Stitch Baby Jacket

I winged it for the matching hat pattern. Beth choose the patterns from a stack I gave her, and the colors, for the most part... the Mossy Jacket was supposed to be green & orange, but the orange just wasn't working with the green I had started with. The bunny buttons are all me- I hope they don't mind! They're very minimalist in style and are going pretty unisex for baby stuff... an idea I love, but unfortunately bunnies + pink = irresistable for me.

Fair Trade.

2008-10-05T19:39:00.000-07:00

I commissioned this painting:

by Doug & Kathryn's lovely daughter Hailee.

I loooooove foxes, and the painting!

We traded for a custom Totoro hat… she wanted one like this one, but the knitter had unfortunately not taken any notes or anything, so I had to try to figure it out.

I think it turned out pretty well…

These pics of Hailee (& Trixie!) were taken by Doug.

This the most complicated colorwork I’ve done,

mostly because I’m not usually a fan.

But I am a fan of Totoro! And Hailee! So there you go...

It was meant to be.

2008-10-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

Lovely gift from Kathryn & Doug:

I knew she had to come to me someday... Or maybe K&D just read the title of this post...

Old School

2008-09-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

I made this a few years ago for a class.

It’s a wire armature with handmade felt and needle felted roving for covering.

It’s about 2 1/2 feet tall and has a hollow cavity in the stomach area.

It was inspired by the Venus of Willendorf.

White Pumpkins

2008-09-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

More for Halloweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee'en!

Knit with Patons Classic Merino. Pattern here.

I had some major problems with the pattern... for the life of me, I have no idea why I had to knit all of the seperate sections of the pumpkin (and then seam them!) when the pumpkin shaping is made entirely in the felting process. Bah.

It’s a very cute pattern, though… just go ahead and knit it in the round!

Mods: I altered the smaller pumpkin to make it even smaller & altered the stem piece on the larger one to make it bigger. I added a leaf to the top of the larger pumpkin.

Beverly's Pincushion Contest

2008-09-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

I won!

For this:

Thanks Beverly's!

Lil' Brown Bat

2008-09-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

For Halloweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee'en!

Pattern here. Knit in Patons Classic Merino & Cascade 220.

I’m making some pumpkins from a different pattern to go with him…

He’ll go into my woodland pals display when he’s not

Hallowe’en decor!

Labyrinth Lux Scarf

2008-09-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

This has been my carry-along purse project for a loooong time, but it's finally done...I call it the Labyrinth Lux Scarf because this Noro Aurora colorway has always reminded me of the set design in the movie Labyrinth... it is mostly shades of brown, shot with other color highlights, all wrapped with an iridescent thread that makes it appear slightly glittery (almost in a snail trail sort of way).

The solid brown stripes are Louisa Harding Grace, another favorite yarn of mine- it's 50/50 wool and silk with a gorgeous sheen, drape and feel.

Winter Hare

2008-09-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

My version of the genius Hansigurumi's latest pattern, the Jackalope:

I just left off the antlers to make it a hare...

She's part of my growing woodland display!

Muuuuuushrooms!

2008-08-31T11:54:00.000-07:00

I knitted some.

Free pattern here.

Blood Drive Thanks.

2008-08-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Blood Drive was a huge success! Thanks to everyone who gave, and to Richie's Aunt Judi for setting everything up. If you couldn't make it, you can now donate in Richie's honor with his

Bloodsource Donor Club number: P869.

Richie & Tiffany's Wedding Day

Chris and his Smarty Pants.

2008-08-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

Chris starts his classes at Mills College today!

Yes, they have co-ed graduate students.

He's studying art (emphasis in Photography) and

is a genius, if I do say so myself.

Wish him luck!

New Sewing...

2008-08-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

Oddly, I did not have a pincushion, soooo...

A strawberry pincushion...

I made it with vintage and new velvet, and wool felt.

The pink baby strawberry is filled with emery, for sharpening needles.

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And the Bag to end all Bags (Hopefully.)

It's the Birdie Sling pattern from Amy Butler,

with Amy Butler fabric for the main panels.

I added an additional panel with pockets to the inside to divide it,

which turned out to be much more difficult than it sounds...

lesson learned, I suppose.

I love it- I can fit all the usual junk,

plus knitting and reading material!

It's a little ridiculous trying to find my keys in it, though.

Blood Drive for Richie!

2008-08-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

My brother Richie needs a kidney...
but if you can't give him one of those, how about some blood?

United For Richie Blood Drive
Sacramento Airport: Terminal B
The Bloodmobile will be in the hourly parking lot across the street
from United Airlines, on Aug 27th from 8:30am-12:30pm.
Please make an appointment if you can,
but walk-ins are heartily welcome, of course!
http://bloodsource.org/
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Richie is truely one of the sweetest people I've ever met, and I'm not even being biased when I say that. We are all trying our hardest to get him a kidney, but until then, dialysis and alternative medicine are keeping him very well. He has received some blood transfusions, though, so we would love to give back... join us if you can!

Richie with our dad.

Barn Owl!

2008-08-08T20:27:00.000-07:00

Yup, I made a Barn Owl.

It's another Hansigurumi!

It's the Horned Owl pattern, without the horns.

'Cause it's a Barn Owl.

I love all things tiny.

2008-08-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

So awhile back I saw the most adorable miniatures on wee wonderfuls from a company called Re-Ment. After drooling for awhile, I ordered a few sets on Ebay and began hoarding an all new obsession...

I made this set it's own little shadow box because,

yes, I really am that nerdy.

Last of the Sea Creatures (for a while)...

2008-08-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest Hansigurumi:

A Hermit Crab! I love him.

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He'll be the last Sea Creature for awhile...

I'm moving onto Woodland Creatures next!

Here they are in their natural environment- my bathroom.

They each have their own scientific label with info such as:

Dumbo Octopus: Genus Grimpoteuthis,

Species Octopoda, Benthic 300-400 meters

The Loch Ness Monster (Nessiteras rhombopteryx).

Knit Picks Samplers

2008-07-30T10:56:00.001-07:00

So Knit Picks has these sweet little sample packs of their cotton yarns that come with six assorted balls and four or five (one ball) patterns to use them for... perfect for summer knitting.

I got the Renaissance Sampler:

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And my first knit from it is the Twig Lace Cap:

It's knit in Comfy (75% Pima Cotton, 25% Acrylic, in Blackberry),

which is lovely- very soft and lightweight.

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I really have been slacking on the knitting since learning to sew recently. I promise to get back on the wagon, though... my fingers are lonely for yarn.

More Gifties

2008-07-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

For Doug's Birthday:

Pattern from Animal Mascots

(ISBN-10: 4391624206, ISBN-13: 978-4391624205)

On Crafting Japanese

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For Rhiannon's (FIRST!) Birthday:

My own pattern!

Because she's a cowgirl.

See?

Laika's a Betsy!

2008-07-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

So, we got Laika a DNA test... yes, we are that geeky. We got it here, and after some hullabaloo involving a false poodle identification, we found out that Laika is a Border Collie! A Level 1 (more than 75%) Border Collie and Level 4 (10-19%) Weimaranar, to be precise... Anyway, that was very exciting because I'm a big fan of the breed after reading about Betsy in National Geographic:

...a border collie named Rico appeared on a German TV game show in 2001. Rico knew the names of some 200 toys and acquired the names of new ones with ease. ...To find more examples, the scientists read all the letters from hundreds of people claiming that their dogs had Rico's talent. In fact, only two—both border collies—had comparable skills. One of them—the researchers call her Betsy—has a vocabulary of more than 300 words. Name: "Betsy"

Species: Border Collie

Home: Vienna, Austria

Smarts: Retains an ever growing vocabulary that rivals a toddlers.
How much thought goes on behind those eyes? A lot, in this case. Six-year-old "Betsy" can put names to objects faster than a great ape, and her vocabulary is at 340 words and counting. Her smarts showed up early: At ten weeks she would sit on command and was soon picking up on names of items and rushing to retrieve them—ball, rope, paper, box, keys, and dozens more. She now knows at least 15 people by name, and in scientific tests she's proved skilled at linking photographs with the objects they represent. Says her owner, "She's a dog in a human [pack]. We're learning her language, and she's learning ours."

Read the whole article here. It's not just about dogs, and the whole thing is fascinating.

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We had thought Laika was an Australian Shepard (that's what they suggested at the SPCA) mixed with some sort of racing breed, since she's so slim and fast. Fast like she gives the Whippet at the dog park a run for his $. The surgeon that set her broken leg thought so too... Plus, she's less that 35 pounds, so we figured something small, but I suppose it's always a crapshoot when you try to guess. Anyway, we didn't really care what she was, we were just curious... we'd love her if she was a poodle, too.

Tahoe

2008-07-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

...is pretty gorgeous, even when it's smoky.

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Pics from last weekend are here.

Don't mind my green face on the trails- I get altitude sickness.

Eeeeewwww... altitude.

Check me out!

2008-07-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

On Daily Outfitting!

Bivalve

Happy Anniversary!

2008-07-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

...to us!

One very sweaty day three years ago...

I'm hungry.

2008-07-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

Can you tell?

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Chocolate Doughnut for Jamie

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Strawberry Pincushion for Etsy

Sad Day for Bathing Costumes...

2008-07-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

So, we didn't make it on our camping trip because of this: Alison's pic of The Lake

That's right, we're in California.

As in, that state that was mostly on fire.

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So, poor Bathing Costume did not get to make her debut...

And neither did my new hat:

Amy Butler's Blue Sky Hat, made with AB fabric as well.

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Bumski.

ain't no party like my nana's tea party

2008-07-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

Heeeeeeey! Hooooo!

Flight of the Conchords, anyone? Anyone?

It's a tea cozy, in case you can't tell...

It's got quilted insulation and my first piping!

My grandmother doesn't even drink tea, actually.

Hey! Weird Food!

2008-06-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

I think that's what Chris said. So there's a new asian food source in town: Oriental Market - Seafood Place... it's at 203 Harding Blvd. in Roseville, right down the street from me!

I made Chris try the cuttlefish (after much prodding- literal prodding, with cuttlefish), which he promptly spit out... he did like the fresh tamarind and sweet rice cakes, though. Anyway, make your way there if you can- they have fresh produce like long beans and raw peanuts, a huge frozen food section, fresh baked goods (like bean cakes... mmmmm...), and a fantastic whole fresh fish selection where they will cut and clean your fish while you wait! You might see me there, wandering the aisle of sauce. That's right, and entire aisle of sauces. You just can't go wrong with that.

Sqeal!

2008-06-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

Wendy of Knit & Tonic mentioned my pattern in yesterday's post! I squeal because this is one of my very favorite blogs... Not only is she a very talented designer, but the lady is Funny. That's right, capital F Funny. Even if you don't knit, the blog will crack you up, guaranteed...

Private Benjamin

Self Control is Overrated.

2008-06-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

I could not live without it:

Monster by Amy Earles (aka Wool & Water)

Check out the sweet postcard it came with and the squeal-worthy ghosty stamp on the shipping envelope...