Signed Cover Art

If you'd like to receive a signed cover art postcard, email me at isobael at gmail dot com. Include your name and mailing address and I'll get them in the mail to you.

December 17, 2011

Let's catch up on this...

I know it's been a while. I've been busy with odds and ends, life in general.

Falconry - still going strong. SgianDubh caught starling #15 this morning. You can read about it on my falconry blog.

Writing - non existent. Depression and writer's block.

Speaking of writing, I love getting notices in my email box telling me someone posted about me. Went to the link.  http://www.sharetermpapers.com/general-b35/looking-for-'isobael-liu-moonlight-magick'-!!/new/#new

You can read my reply.

*Sigh*

Oh, and it looks like I'll be joining the workforce, after 15 years of being a homemaker.

August 11, 2011

Yay...?

Currently in an Irish and Scottish music kick. Obviously these weeks after the Highland Games has increased my craving for Celtic excitement. (Actually, it might not be that bad as I'm not having Spike use his Scottish brogue on me....YET.)

Writing has been incredibly slow to non-existent. Writer's block compounded with Depression and a bad case of extreme isolation. Spike's car's transmission is pretty much shot (short distances are best) so he's been taking my Beast to work, leaving me without transportation. Not that there's anyplace to go. The mall, maybe...

Corset is due next week. I cannot wait. I'm so excited!

I've picked out one of my previously written and nearly round-filed (deleted) novellas to edit and rewrite. I'm liking the ideas so far. We'll see how long it lasts.

August 5, 2011

2011 Scottish Highland Games, Enumclaw, WA

What a wonderful weekend! I’ve always loved attending the Highland Games, in Enumclaw, WA. I remember my first Games. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time and watching the Massing of the Pipes and Drums was very emotional. Skye-Alexandra loved it, she kicked along while they filled the field with the tune of “Scotland the Brave”. To this day, it’s one of her, and my, favorite Scottish tunes to hear on bagpipes.

Nearly fourteen years later, the Games was just as great at the first time. I still get a wee bit teary-eyed at hearing the ten plus Pipe Bands (I think there were fourteen Pipe Bands in total!) fill the field, and air. If you’ve never experienced the Massing of Pipe and Drums, it is a must in my book.

Friday evening, the “unofficial” first day of the Games, there is Opening Ceremonies. It’s not usually well attended, despite it being free to get in, and the bulk of the attendees are those who have clan tents or booths at the event. Clan Gordon Pipe Band, Northwest Junior Pipe Band, and the Tacoma Scots Pipe Band played for us. This was followed by a rousing sing-a-long, led by the talented Colin Grant-Adams. We had a history lesson of Scotland and Scots in America, then the March of the Clan Reps that led into the Flaming Saltire, and when all the reps were on the field, in the Scottish flag formation (saltire), we did something a bit different than previous years. We sang to them as they held their lit torches up. I have some poorly done pictures (Dad’s camera doesn’t do night shots all that well), but you can get the gist of it.

After opening ceremonies, there is a Ceilidh (kay-lee), dancing and general partying, but we didn’t stay for this as we needed to be up bright and early to return.

I barely slept that night, crawling into bed at nearly 2 am, and stumbling out of it at 5 am, to get dressed and off to the Games to open the clan tent and lay out the tables. By the looks of it, it was promising to be quite a wonderful day, with the sun rising and the low lying mists in the open field.

Vice President Charles Morehead and his daughter, Christina, joined us early in the morning, and then by Glen and Patricia Morehead. Chief Raymond’s wife arrived with grandchildren (and my nephew and nieces), Adam Morehead’s children, and my daughter, Skye-Alexandra.

This year, I brought SgianDubh, my American Kestrel, and she turned out to be quite the star of the day. Not a lot of pictures of the first day as I had Sgian, and was in my Celtic dress. We took a couple of walk-abouts and were stopped often for photo ops and questions. During the Parade of Clans, the Muirheads were announced and the announcer, former Secretary of State, Ralph Munroe, asked me what kind of bird. When I told him, he announced her to the audience as well.

The day turned out to be not only beautiful, but scorching! After such a mild summer, we were hit with an 80 plus degree weather and by the end of the day, quite a few people were more than willing to beat feet home to take a COLD shower.

Sunday was the complete opposite. We woke to overcast and light mist, which turned into a steady, heavy mist for a bit, then a sprinkle. We had some clear spots, and then a return to the misting. Not a miserable day, but it did keep things a wee bit damp. Still, the temperature was mild and comfortable, and it didn’t deter many people from the fun.

I’d left SgianDubh home so I could enjoy the day without having to watch out for her. I was also childless as she stayed home to entertain her cousins and help her grandma out.

With the weather, there were less people in attendance than the day before, but still LOTS of people. I opted out of the Parade of Clans so I could play photographer.

The clan tent hosted Glen and Patricia Morehead (They are wonderful people and always fun to talk to!), VP Charles Morehead, his daughter, Christina, and Christina’s friend, Brendan, Clan Chief Raymond, as well as myself. Later on the day, my sister Jennifer Morehead-Bushnell, her husband Eric Bushnell, and children, Makayla and Emily, stopped by.

I picked up a new Celtic dress, this time with a chemise in a lighter weight, and in a green overdress (my other one is blue), so now I have two outfits to wear and both will match our clan tartan (both ancient and modern colors). I can’t wait to get my hands on some plaid to wear as an arasaid!

It was wonderful to see old friends and awesome to meet new ones.

After closing ceremonies, we had help breaking down the four tables and packing up the gear. We really appreciated the help in packing the gear out to the truck, rather than waiting for the madhouse to clear so we could bring the truck in. With everyone helping, we had everything loaded and done quicker than previous years!

And with that, another awesome and fun Highland Games was had. I can’t wait for next year!

Pictures are available here.

July 26, 2011

Updating...

Hey, all. I know...it's been FOREVER!

How's things been going with the blogosphere?

Let's catch some things up with my corner of the multiverse, shall we?

I ordered a corset. LOL. I have ALWAYS wanted one and never could find one I could afford that would fit me. As I am a "big girl", I was looking at steel boned corsets well into the $300-$500 range. Until recently.

I found as site that had steel boned and spiral steel boned corsets in an affordable range. I was ecstatic. I had a little money saved up and I spent two, three weeks on this website, hemming and hawing over the choices. After much deliberation and with input from a wonderful friend (Thank you, Morseren!), I decided on an underbust corset for my first one.


It's a long line, underbust, waist training corset in a gorgeous green brocade. I went with a waist trainer because it comes with 24 spiral steel boning, which I thought would have more support for my weight. I'm not in it for the waist training aspect (I'm not going to become a waspie!), but I did want some oomph in my corset.

So, in about a month, I'll have my first corset. I'm thrilled beyond belief and I can't wait! Now, I just need to find a couple of outfits to wear under it. Any suggestions? =)

Secondly, had a health scare over the weekend. My husband had abdominal pains all weekend, which worsened, so on Monday, he took himself to the VA hospital for a check up. They ran x-rays and finally a CT scan, thinking perhaps it was appendicitis. Fortunately (or unfortunately, in his mind), it wasn't appendicitis, but diverticulitis. Basically, they are small bulging sacs or pouches of the inner lining of the intestines that become infected. So, he's on a three day clear liquid diet. Afterwards, he's increasing his fiber and going on a low fat diet. Less red meat, more fruits and veggies...which I've been going after him about for years anyway.

Nurses and doctors make the worse patients, let me tell you.

He wishes it was appendicitis though. They'd have gone in, taken it out, and he'd be fine. Poor man is starving on this clear liquid diet though. LOL. Hey, maybe I'll lose weight since I'm eating the same thing he is, with added fruit and yogurt as he can't have any yet.

Other than that, not much else to report. Life is plodding along. =)

June 30, 2011

Fascinators...

I've always been fascinated with hats and head decor. Unfortunately, I'm just one of those women who can't do hats well. Something about my fat face, or the shape of it, or something, but I've never been able to find a hat I look good in (and can afford!).

The Victorian era had fascinators, which were not hats, but hair decor on a small base. Bonnets and veils were more common, but fascinators were worn during special occasions, such as soirees, going to the theatre, operas, and balls.

Fascinators were more common during the late Victorian and into the Edwardian period, and were more than just tail feathers. Sometimes wings, or even the stuffed bird would be used, as well as feathers, faux flowers, ribbons, and tulle/veiling.

Between 1914, to about 1920 (maybe a little earlier), the obnoxious styles of the earlier years took a back seat again, and stately elegance resumed control of the feathers and fascinator style.

Now, again, I need to be able to afford this stuff and I've seen prices for little bits of feathers on a felt base and was flabbergasted! How the heck can they justify charging that much for a bit of nothing?!?

So, I decided to do it myself.

Ok, first of all, I am NOT (and there is not enough ways to emphasize this!) a crafty sort of person. Hands on crafts and I don't do well. I'm the writer of the family, my sister is the crafty hands on type, and my brother is just smart as hell when it comes to computers.

I tell you this because it's my disclaimer for the following images. LOL.

I drag my daughter to the craft store because she's interested in making them as well. I think it's more along the lines of "Mom's doing it so I want to" rather than any real interest in the things.

I buy out the craft store. Well, not really, of course, but my monthly allowance was gone in a matter of an hour.

Click on the images for full size...
This would be MY haul...

Oh, no, not my daughter...

She's being picky and only has a couple of items in her basket. She then looks at my goodies and asks, "So, you're going to share the feathers, right?"

I said, "Maybe."

She frowned and then said, "I better get some feathers."

LOL. She got one bag.

And this would be her haul.
Ok, so we get home and I start making mine.

*Peers through the monitors to eye my readers* No laughing!

Again, click on images for full view...
This is the first one I made. Made for the left side of the head.
This was the second one. Made for the right side of the head.
That little stone in the center is a small piece of unpolished tiger's eye.

There ya go. My first two hand made fascinators. =)

But wait! I'm not done!

Today, I decided to make a couple more. Mainly because the local Highland Games is coming up and we have a clan tent there (I'm the Clan Muirhead secretary and personal assistant to the Clan Chief). I wanted something to wear with my Celtic clothes while there. Plus, I'm bringing my kestrel, SgianDubh, so I wanted to be a bit elegant as well (Ok, vanity, I know...but since I'm in the Parade of Clans, and having her on my glove, I needed to look a bit snazzy...).

Click on the images for full size...
For the right side of the head. Short tulle drape.



Then this one...

Click on the images for full size...



This is for the left side of the head and has four long tulle drapes.

I LOVE the iridescent feathers!

I think my next ones will have peacock feathers. =)

What do you think?

June 27, 2011

Summer Berry Tart

Makes 8 to 10 mini tarts

Crust -

1/2 cup shredded coconut (Used the toasted coconut for a different taste)
1 cup medjool dates, pitted
1/2 lemon, zest and juice

Put ingredients in a food processor and pulse into a fine, sticky texture. Take 2 inch size ball of mixture and form into little tart shells, pinching evenly with thumb and index finger. Chill while preparing filling.

Filling -

1 cup berries of choice
5 to 6 medjool dates, pitted
1/2 orange, zest and juice

Place ingredients into a food processor and blend smooth. Place a dollop into each tart shell and top with your favorite contrasting berry. Chill in fridge for at least an hour to set.

Berry Fruit Trifle

1 angel food cake or pound cake
1 cup fresh strawberries, washed, dried, hulled, and sliced thick.
1 cup raspberries, wash and dried.
1/4 cup + 2 TB sugar
2 tsp lemon juice
2/3 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Dice the cake into small cubes and separate into servings.
Make the filling by combining the mascarpone, cream, vanilla, and 2 TB sugar.
Toss the fruit with 1/4 cup sugar and lemon juice. Set some aside for garnish.
Assemble by layering cake, fruit, cream, then repeat, and garnish with fruit.
Chill for at least 4 hours to let flavors set. Can be made 2 days ahead of time.

June 10, 2011

Sunny days ahead...

Well, unless you live in WA state, then you just have to wait and see, otherwise expect rain.

Still, in the personal life front, things are looking up. Spike passed his LPN classes, took his NCLEX and passed, and is now a licensed LPN. He interviewed for and was just hired on at a facility he really wanted to work at, starts tomorrow (Saturday). The issue I have with it is it's swing shift, 2 to 10pm, and being a nurse, he can't leave at the end of his shift, he has to wait for the next shift to be on and updated on what's happened, what's happening, etc, so he might not even get out of work until 11 or even later. The money is decent for a just graduated LPN though. I'm just used to my husband being home at night.

Still in our current living situation, but hopefully we'll be able to get that taken care of.

In the writing area, it seems my Muse is tentatively visiting again. Depression took its toll this past year and I've not really been able to sit and write. No matter what I tried, I just couldn't. This past week, I've managed to write 11,000 words, so I'm slowly returning. I'll probably do more writing in the evenings this summer, when I don't need to be up so early to get Spike and our daughter off to their respective required locations, and can stay up late waiting for Spike to get home.

Currently untitled, I'm working on book 2 in the Moonlight series. This takes place about ten years later after Moonlight and Magick. We may have cameos of Lilian and Matthias, but for now, there'll be two new characters. Her name is Rayne, and she escaped during a raid on the Custodes Secreti compound in Skylar Ranch, Washington. His name is Dante Navarro, a shifter whose claimed BlackWater, Washington as his territory. There's a connection between the two in more ways than just matters of the heart. It'll be up to them to figure things out. Add in a few enemies, a couple of mysteries, and shake well.

I know it's been rather quiet in the blog front. I'm sorry for that.

So, there you have it.


~Isobael

May 28, 2011

Small town dream...

When I was growing up, Bonney Lake was a small town. I could count on one hand how many minorities attended school when I went. I know I was teased and picked on for being "a chink" while growing up. it was definitely Hickville, USA.

Bonney Lake is now a small city. In the 1980's, when I was growing up, there was roughly 5,000 people. In 2010, we have roughly 17,000 people living here.

Despite my experiences, one of my dreams as an adult was to live in a small town. When I say small town, I'm talking no more than 2,000 people. Think Stars Hollow from "Gilmore Girls", Bon Temps in "True Blood, or Walnut Grove in "Little House on the Prairie" small.

I don't know if it's the romantic ideal of living in such a small town, or just the simplicity of the matter.

I used to dream about running away and hiding out in a small town. Every time I have problems in my life, in my personal relationships, I dream about running away to hide in a small town, with a new name.

It's become my haven.

Hawk's Point in "Moonlight and Magick" is a good example of what I mean. It's a small town, people pass through but rarely stay. Lillian could hide out there, start her life over. It was "safe" because everyone knew everyone else and if the Custodes Secreti agents came, word of it would be out. Outsiders were suspect, especially those asking too many questions.

In a world gone crazy, filled with violence, and in larger cities where you can't even trust your own neighbors, this small town ideal is very appealing.

I dislike large cities, other than occasional visits, catch the touristy stuff, then go home where it's quiet. Maybe I'm just a small town girl at heart.

So, tell me...are you big city or small town? Why?

=)

May 23, 2011

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair...”

Charles Dickens



This month marked the one year anniversary of my romance novel, “Moonlight and Magick” being published. In the past year, I’ve experienced upheavals, stress, the highs of having a long time dream realized, the lows of self doubt and wondering if I can repeat it.

I have stories upon stories, upon stories in my head, all clamoring to get out…

Until I want them to.

I will admit to being highly distracted for the past year, which contributes to my inability to get another novel finished in my set time frame. Distractions, such as loss of job, landlords selling the home we were living in and our having to move, illnesses, the stress of worrying whether or not we’d find a place to live, of how to afford it in this economy, but I am plinking away at the keyboard, putting the words into digital format.

Just when it was looking up, more upheavals that plunged us back into the depths of despair and worry.

Through it all, I’ve always been able to look at my one shining achievement and I smile. I tell myself this is only a minor setback. I’ll get my groove back. I’ll finish these two novels and get them out.

The novel I’m working on now, I hope to have finished by the end of this year. I’d prefer sooner, but we’ll see. I’m envisioning a release some time around Chinese New Year (And yes, I know, I’m being a bit presumptuous as I need to get it shopped and accepted first!), because of the theme and characters of the novel being Chinese. All of this is tying in with my roots, my Chinese/Taiwanese heritage, and honoring my Mother, as well as a planned return trip to Taiwan to visit relatives I’ve not seen in 24 years, some I’ve not yet had the chance to meet!

This planned visit is definitely an incentive for me to get this novel finished! I’d definitely like to go back with something to show!

Plus, I had a dream they made this story into a film and I got to sit on the auditions where I was introduced to and watched Jet Li (*purr*Jet Li*) read for the part of the hero. How’s that for a kick in the butt?!?

This month also marked my 39 birthday. I would love to see my next novel released for the anniversary of my 40 year on this planet.

Ahh, goals. It’s good to have them.

So, what goals do you have and what drives you to have them?


~Isobael Liu

May 3, 2011

Animated Banner...


Just testing out an animated banner I made. Need to work on resizing to fit...but not too shabby for using a program I just got and haven't really used before.


April 20, 2011

Respect...

When someone complains about other people showing them disrespect, and whines about how they're treated, then turns around and does the same exact thing to another person, the same thing they complained about, then I have no sympathy for them, and they've just lost all respect from me.

Well, maybe not all. After all, we are all people, living, feeling beings, and in that, we all deserve some degree of respect. After all, no one truly knows the experiences and the suffering another person has been through, and because they live, suffer, they deserve some respect.

Still, after all the time they spent complaining about how they're treated, only to turn around and treat another person exactly what they decried, what am I suppose to think? Or feel...?

To respect someone means you acknowledge someone or something has value. We may not always agree with it, but we must respect what it is that they say. Many times, we unfairly judge others or their views.  We're insensitive to others' thoughts and feelings. We don't give them the time or attention they deserve. We may rudely interrupt or talk over them. We may begin to argue with them, negate their thoughts or opinions because we don't believe it, or refuse to listen to another side.

To simplify, to respect someone means you take their feelings, thoughts, needs, ideas, and preferences into consideration before we open our mouths (or use our fingers) in response to what was said or done. It means you value their thoughts and feelings, even if you don't agree with them, because we are entitled to our own thoughts, and feelings. It means being truthful, and accepting their differences.

And when you disrespect me, I'm sorry you felt you had to. I'm sorry your mental state was such that you had to sink to such lows. I forgive you, even if you don't ask for forgiveness.

But forgiving you doesn't mean I condone your actions. I can forgive someone & yet have nothing to do with them again. It doesn't mean I'm holding a grudge, it means I've forgiven & I've let go.

April 12, 2011

Bad Blogger...

I know, I know...it's been a while since I posted anything. I guess it's because I haven't really thought of anything worth posting.

Let's catch up.

Spike graduated from his LPN course. He took his NCLEX test and passed, so he's now a licensed nurse. Currently, he's working for the Enumclaw School District. They have him hired on full time to cover for another nurse, until the end of the school year. We're not entirely sure what we'll do at the end of the school year, if he'll find another job for the summer or not go back to the district. I especially do not like the fact that their payday is at the end of the month. It's very hard to live for the month when you get paid at the end of it.

Still ripping words from my soul onto the laptop. I've finally just trashed what I had and outlined for current project. I'm finding the words aren't coming like they used to and I'm never happy with what I've done. I'd hoped to have this story done by now, but there are so many distractions going on in my life, it's nearly impossible for me to just sit down and write. However, I am still working on it, a few words here and there, so we'll see.

Had a strange dream last night. I was following someone I knew (I knew her in the dream), and we went swimming in what was a pool at first. As we were swimming, it became an indoor pool in a small room. There was a guy in there and he tried to drown me. I woke up.

Been listening to meditation audios. Currently, it's been Jack Kornfield's Buddhist Meditation for Beginners. Anyone interested in Buddhism or meditation, I recommend Mr. Kornfield. His speaking manner is lighthearted, instructional, and yet punctuated with humor to keep you interested and awake. I really enjoy his method. I'm looking into getting his books as well.

Apparently, there is no such thing as a plus sized Chinese woman as I cannot find blouses that come in my size, nor can I find decent patterns. I may have to use one of my childhood shirts to draft a workable pattern and go from there, but I'm not that skilled as a seamstress yet.

I've decided to order from Upton Teas as soon as I have the spare cash to do so. They look like an excellent company with comparable prices to what SpecialTeas offered. The options are there as well.

Anyway, so there we are. An update. =)

March 24, 2011

OH, NO!!!

I just found out my favorite tea supplier went away, bought out by/merged with Teavana. They'd been supplying teas to Teavana, from what I understand...Teavana just changes the name or whatever to their own name.

I was NOT going to go to Teavana. I dislike places that tout how nice they are, how friendly they are, how great of a place to work they are...and have their associates push for sales. They're given a sales goal for the month. Really? I mean, are you a large box store like...well, we won't name them because I refuse to shop there anymore after the crap they pulled with my mother.

But...I went there today. I wanted some Earl Grey de la Creme, oh, sorry...Teavana calls it Earl Grey Creme *rolls eyes*.

The sales lady, or maybe she was the manager, oh, sorry...TEAM LEADER...and I told her I'd heard about Teavana's acquisition or whatever of SpecialTeas. She was like, "Why is everyone saying that? I've had so many customers come in and tell me they used to buy from SpecialTeas and they heard we bought them out or took over the company or something. I've never heard that and I would have heard about it because they send us memos and emails and newsletters."

So I tried to tell her about what I found out and she was adamant that Teavana has had these teas forever and they've never bought them from SpecialTeas. Teavana makes their own teas and they have similar teas as other places, but these are their own names and blends.

Lifting a brow at her, I just shook my head. I wasn't about to get into an argument with her about it. However, I did end up buying a couple of ounces of three different teas, one being my Earl Grey de la Creme...oh, sorry...Earl Grey Creme...*rolls eyes*...but they charged $4.50 for 2 ounces whereas I remember paying just a tad bit more for 4 ounces at SpecialTeas.

Apparently, someone else in another state got the same song and dance from their local Teavana store in Maryland...so maybe Teavana told their employees to give customers the same song and dance number if asked? Who knows. all I know is I am not a happy camper about the whole mess.

Apparently, this acquisition/merger/buy out has been a hush hush thing...

Anyway, I will NOT be spending any more of my money at Teavana after this little trip. I'll find somewhere else to spend my money and feed my tea habit.

So, the search is on for an alternate tea source.

Do you drink tea and where do you get it? =)

February 26, 2011

Tarot Cards...

In the beginning of my searching for a spiritual path, I came across some amazing art and it drew me like nothing else had.

I can remember the piece.
Isis and Osiris, by Susan Seddon Boulet
I bought a few prints of Susan Seddon Boulet's Goddess Art and cherished them. I need to frame and hang them, but for now, they remain safe in my hope chest.

When Spike found out about his impending NCLEX test, we ran to Half Price Books. As he searched through the Nursing books, I made my way through the metaphysical section and found they sold tarot cards. Scanning through them, I nearly fell from the step stool in excitement!


48 beautiful cards with her artwork! Even better, after I bought it and took it home, I found an extra card inside.



The Athena card. I gave it to my daughter as it seemed very fitting.

From a website:

The art of the divine feminine is explored in and enriched by the paintings of Susan Seddon Boulet in the Goddesses Knowledge Cards. This popular artist hails originally from Brazil. Some 48 of her visions of female deities from Greece, Rome, Egypt, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Native American traditions and more are available sturdy deck of Goddesses Knowledge Cards. Brief biographies of the featured goddesses compiled by Michael Babcock are featured on the flip side. As you read the text you become aware of the power of the feminine and begin to recognize it in yourself. You start to picture your place in the divine feminine collective unconscious. The insightful art of Boulet cements the vision of the goddess in your memory as you go through the Goddesses Knowledge Cards.

Boulet found her inspiration in the myths of the world, Jungian psychology, global spiritual traditions and poetry. She was particularly attracted to the goddesses of the different mythologies. Boulet combined her source materials with her love of nature and animals, creating visions that inspire, inform and delight the eye. San Francisco Bay Area writer Michael Babcock was Boulet’s friend and shared her passion for archetypes. His insightful text adds depth to Boulet’s artistic vision and her captivating portraits of goddesses from around the world in the Goddesses Knowledge Cards. This is a card deck that will satisfy you on multiple levels.

It's not a normal tarot deck, but it can be used for intuition or searching one's inner self.

 I also found Egyptian Tarot (U.S. Games). Not as detailed or pretty as most other decks, but they felt comfortable when I picked up the deck. (http://www.learntarot.com/egdesc.htm) One thing I don't particularly like about it is they don't have the inverse meanings to the cards.


February 15, 2011

My "Bat Cave" - work in progress

So, we have a 1972 Prowler trailer in my parents' driveway. We'd purchased it to stay in for a brief time while we waited for the rental house to get cleaned up. The rental house took longer to get ready and with the personal problems that happened, we ended up moving in with my parents to help them out, as well as help us out.

So this trailer has been sitting in their driveway, used as part storage and part...well...storage.

I recently decided to clean it up and use it as a personal getaway/office/writing cave.





 As you can see from the above pictures - these are before.

After of the writing area. This is where I'll be setting up my laptop for writing.

The stove works, but the sink does not. The plank of wood over the sink is to extend the counter space. I can light the stove and heat hot water for tea. =)

The pull out bed area, pushed in with the futon mattress to make a cozy sitting area for chatting or reading.
I'm going to find some throws to toss onto the futon, put in a little rug in front of the door.

February 14, 2011

(¯`•.¸¸.->♥ ♥Happy Valentine’s Day♥ ♥ <-.¸¸.•´¯)

February 8, 2011

Reticules!

As posted before, I've been working on a new project with my Mom.

Mom crochets, those doilies and bedspreads (eventually I will get her to crochet a shawl!), but it had been a while since she picked up string and hook. When she saw I was sewing reticules, she asked about them. I showed her pictures of various kinds and she saw the crocheted ones. *Grin*

So, we went through some old doilies she had packed away from 20+ years ago to see what we could do with them and she started to crochet again.

I make the inner liner and we attach them. Here are some we just finished.

This one Mom just finished crocheting.

Experimental crochet

With liner pinned in.

Liner hand tacked inside.

Unfinished, but this is the outside.

Closed

Finished - open.


Finished - closed.

This was crocheted many years ago, made for the arms of the sofa or chair.

Burgundy taffeta pouch, each piece hand tacked onto the pouch.

Opened.

January 31, 2011

New website banner...

Been thinking (could you smell the smoke?!?) and decided to just cut out the separate website. I do more posting on my blog anyway, and since we can add pages like a website, I decided to just point my domain address to the blog and make my blog into my website.

The only think it can't do it have downloads. I was going to have an archive of the newsletters available for download, but it's a no go on this.

So, I'll just create a little notice for it.

What do you think of the new look? Have you seen the new look for the newsletter? What do you think of that one?

Since my laptop shows it my colors, you'll have to tell me if there are colors too bright or too muted on your end.

=)

January 30, 2011

Just because...

In other odd news...

Here's my writing play-list. Marvel at the eclectic mix of modern and masterpiece music.


Or not...

1. E.S. Posthumus - Antissa (5:11)
2. Marilyn Manson - Marilyn Manson - Marilyn Manson - Posthuman (4:02)
3. Ludwig van Beethoven - Symphony No.3 in E Flat Major, Op.55 "Eroica": Marcia funebre: Adagio assai (16:35)
4. Goo Goo Dolls - Stay With You (3:57)
5. Various - Beethoven Rondo A Capriccio in G Major, op129 "Rage Over a Lost Penny" (6:45)
6. Depeche Mode - Nothing To Fear (Live) (4:26)
7. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - The Marriage of Figaro, K 492 (Excerpts) -- "Voi, che sapete..." (Cherubino) (3:15)
8. Track 9 (6:49)
9. Depeche Mode - In Chains (6:53)
10. Autumnal Blood Moon - Within You (1:32)
11. Various - Rachmaninoff Preludes, op23 No5 in G minor - Alla marcia (4:12)
12. Various - Rachmaninoff Preludes, op23 - No2 in B flat major - Maestoso (3:52)
13. MIDIval PunditZ - Bhangra Fever (5:14)
14. Metallica - Until It Sleeps (4:28)
15. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Concerto for Flute, Harp and Orchestra in C Major, K 299 -- II. Andantino (8:38)
16. Drowning Pool - Soldiers (3:39)
17. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Don Giovanni (Excerpts), K 527 -- Overture (6:34)
18. Sting - Desert Rose (techno remix (9:19)
19. Various - Liszt Transcriptions from Schwanengesang D957 (6:14)
20. Depeche Mode - John the Revelator (3:42)
21. Deep Forest & Peter Gabriel - Whi (9:32)
22. India by Night - Gone (6:08)
23. E.S. Posthumus - Harappa (4:36)
24. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Concerto for Flute and Orchestra No. 2 in D Major, K 314 -- III. Allegro (5:09)
25. Beethoven - Sonata No.8 In C Minor, Op.13 (Pathetique)-Adagio Cantabile (5:37)
26. Gabriel Darknight - Vampire's Crush (4:50)
27. Depeche Mode - Nothing To Fear (4:16)
28. Janet Jackson - Black Cat (1990) (4:50)
29. Stabbing Westward - Sometimes it Hurts (3:40)
30. Orgy - Opticon (2:56)
31. Static-X - Start A War (2:45)
32. Oddstar - She's Too Cool for You (demo) (4:09)
33. Gabriel Darknight - Overture of the Vampire (4:47)
34. Track 8 (1:22)
35. David Arnold - From The Motion Picture 'Die Another Day': James Bond Theme (Oakenfold Mix) (2:44)
36. Depeche Mode - Jezebel (4:41)
37. Various - Rachmaninoff Preludes, op23 - No4 in D major - Andante cantabile (5:14)
38. Various - Beethoven Piano Sonata No 14 in C Sharp Minor, op27-2 II - Allegretto (2:42)
39. Depeche Mode - A Photograph Of You (3:04)
40. Downfall Funeral - Into The Garden Of Dark Deligh (7:40)
41. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Don Giovanni (Excerpts), K 527 -- Madammina... (Register Aria by Leporello) (5:33)
42. Depeche Mode - See You (4:34)
43. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 25 in G Minor, K 183 -- I. Allegro con brio (9:43)
44. Puscifer - Choked (4:50)
45. Nine Inch Nails - Somewhat Damaged (4:31)
46. Reign of Angels - Empty (3:57)
47. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Te Deum Laudamus, K 141 -- Allegro - Adagio - Allegro (6:33)
48. Various - Rachmaninoff Piano concerto No1 in F sharp minor, op1-Vivace (13:29)
49. Hungry Lucy - Bound in Blood (Waltz Lullaby) (3:25)
50. Rob Zombie - Feel So Numb (3:38)
51. Track 6 (6:47)
52. Metallica - Nothing Else Matters (6:27)
53. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 38 in D Major, K 504 ''Prager'' -- I. Adagio - Allegro (12:24)
54. Depeche Mode - Wrong (3:13)
55. Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op9 - Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op. 9/3 (6:46)
56. Various - Tchaikovsky- The Nutcracker, op 71 March (2:02)
57. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Adante for Flute and Orchestra in C Major, K 316 (7:29)
58. Ludwig van Beethoven - Symphony No.7 in A Major, Op.92: III. Presto (10:16)
59. E.S. Posthumus - Estremoz (5:06)
60. Cruciform - Eternal (3:43)
61. Paul Oakenfold - Southern Sun (Exclusive New Oakenfold 2008 Remix) (3:00)
62. Track 4 (5:57)
63. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Don Giovanni (Excerpts), K 527 -- "La ci darem la mano" (Duet Don Giovanni - Zerlina) (3:28)
64. Garden of Dreams - Killing Romeo and Juliet (Alt (2:59)
65. Orgy - Suckerface (3:28)
66. Scott Weiland - Time of The Season (3:25)
67. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra No. 10 in E Flat Major, K 365 -- III. Rondeau - Allegro (6:44)
68. Methods Of Mayhem - Metamorphisis (4:40)
69. Downfall Funeral - Fall From Grace (7:20)
70. The Smashing Pumpkins - Perfect (Perfecto Mix) (4:01)
71. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K 467 -- II. Andante (6:52)
72. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Coronation Mass in C Major, K 317 -- II. Gloria (4:35)
73. Depeche Mode - Monument (3:14)
74. Marilyn Manson - Angel With The Scabbed Wings (3:52)
75. Happy Mondays - Step On (Paul Oakenfold Remix) (2:39)
76. Stabbing Westward - Haunting Me (3:36)
77. Janet Jackson - Rythmn Nation (5:29)
78. Various - Grieg Elegies for Piano, op.34 I: Wounded Heart" (2:27)
79. Various - Liszt Etudes d'execution transcendante - "Harmonies du soir" (8:35)
80. Bhangra Knights - Fascinating Rhythm (3:05)
81. Bella Morte - Fall No More (5:06)
82. Radiohead - Everything In Its Right Place (6:29)
83. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K 550 -- I. Molto allegro (7:52)
84. Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op9 - Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op. 9/1 (5:29)
85. Depeche Mode - Shouldn't Have Done That (3:12)
86. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 4 in E Flat Major, K 495 -- II. Romanza - Andante (4:55)
87. Metallica - The Struggle Within (3:53)
88. Gabriel Darknight - Impaler (3:34)
89. Chopin Nocturne in F flat major, op15 - Chopin Nocturne in F major, op. 15/3 (10:45)
90. Christina Aguilera - Candyman (3:14)
91. Nancy Sinatra - How Does That Grab You, Darlin'? (2:46)
92. Various - Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No1 in B flat minor, op23 Allego con fuoco-Allegro vivo (7:03)
93. Beethoven - Sonata No.23 In F Minor, Op.57 (Appassionata)-Allegro Assai (9:34)
94. Rasputina - Transylvanian Concubine (2:56)
95. Beethoven - Andante Favori In F Major, Woo 57 (8:28)
96. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K 550 -- IV. Allegro assai (6:47)
97. Depeche Mode - Satellite (4:41)
98. Chemical Brothers - Setting Sun (5:22)
99. Depeche Mode - Now This Is Fun (3:24)
100. The Cure - Lost (4:11)
101. Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op9 - Chopin Nocturne in B flat minor, op. 9/2 (4:43)
102. Chopin Nocturne in F flat major, op15 - Chopin Nocturne in F major, op. 15/2 (5:00)
103. Nine Inch Nails - We're in This Together (7:16)
104. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Laudate Dominum, from ''Vesperae solennes de confessore,'' K 339 (5:12)
105. E.S. Posthumus - Nara (4:51)
106. My Socrates - Toy Matinee (3:36)
107. E.S. Posthumus - Cuzco (4:02)
108. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - "The Magic Flute," K 620 (Excerpts) -- "Der Holle Rache" (Konigin der Nacht) (3:23)
109. Sonata No.14 In C Sharp Minor, Op.27 - 2 (Moonlight Sonata)-Presto Agitato (7:46)
110. Hans Zimmer - Jack Theme Suite (Paul Oakenfold Mix) (3:42)
111. Various - Beethoven Piano Sonata No 14 in C Sharp Minor, op27-2 III - Presto Agitato (7:46)
112. Unto Ashes - Morte o Merce (4:51)
113. Depeche Mode - Comatose (3:24)
114. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 4 in E Flat Major, K 495 -- III. Rondo - Allegro Vivace (4:00)
115. Collide - Razor Sharp (4:52)
116. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K 550 -- III. Menuetto - Allegretto (4:31)
117. Depeche Mode - Corrupt (6:14)
118. Finger Eleven - Quicksand (4:06)
119. Paul Oakenfold - Dread Rock (2:50)
120. Escape Club - Wild Wild West (5:43)
121. Drowning Sorrow - Heart-Shaped Chalkline (4:43)
122. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Serenade No. 7 in D Major, K 250 "Haffner-Serenade" -- II. Andante (9:23)
123. Chemical Brothers - Hey Boy Hey G (4:49)
124. Linking Park - What I ve Done (3:27)
125. Various - Rachmaninoff Piano concerto No1 in F sharp minor, op1 (7:12)
126. Swahili - Zap Mama - Rafiki (4:04)
127. Depeche Mode - The Meaning Of Love (Live) (3:13)
128. Dirty Vegas - Days Go By (Paul Oakenfold Remix Y Vocal) (3:40)
129. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - The Marriage of Figaro, K 492 (Excerpts) -- "Cosi fan tutte," K 588 (4:40)
130. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - "The Magic Flute," K 620 (Excerpts) -- "Der Vogelfanger bin ich ja" (Papageno) (2:35)
131. E.S. Posthumus - Lepcis Magna (3:27)
132. Depeche Mode - See You (Live) (4:09)
133. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - The Marriage of Figaro, K 492 -- Overture (4:17)
134. The Cure - Maybe Someday (5:08)
135. Various - Tchaikovsky- The Nutcracker, op 71 Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (1:55)
136. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - "The Magic Flute," K 620 (Excerpts) -- Overture (7:23)
137. Depeche Mode - In Sympathy (4:54)
138. Underworld - Born Slippy Nuxx (Paul Oakenfold Mix) (3:12)
139. Various - Beethoven Piano Sonata No 14 in C Sharp Minor, op27-2 Moonlight 1st Mvmt Adagio sostenuto (6:20)
140. Track 1 (3:44)
141. Blooded - the 13th revelation (1st cut) (4:02)
142. Tapping The Vein - bleed (4:25)
143. Garden of Dreams - Drinking from my soul (7:55)
144. Nine Inch Nails - Closer (6:13)
145. Audra - There Are No Snakes In Heaven (3:16)
146. Various - Rachmaninoff Preludes, op3 - No2 in C sharp minor (3:54)
147. Republica - Baby I m Ready To Go (5:01)
148. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Symphony No. 41 in C Major, K 551 - ''Jupiter-Symphony" -- III. Menuetto - Allegro (5:06)
149. Chemical Brothers - It Began In Africa (6:17)
150. Cafe Noire - The Clock Strikes XII (4:55)
151. Immaculata - Fury (5:25)
152. Stabbing Westward - Lost (3:21)
153. Various - Tchaikovsky- The Nutcracker, op 71 Pas de deux: Intrada (5:13)
154. Beethoven - Sonata No.8 In C Minor, Op.13 (Pathetique)-Rondo Allegro (4:20)
155. Steve Roach (ambient) - Midnight Loom (6:59)
156. Beethoven - Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No.1 In C Major, Op.15-Allegro Con Brio (16:08)
157. Drowning Pool - Enemy (3:28)
158. Madonna - Sorry (Paul Oakenfold Remix) (5:05)
159. Sonata No.14 In C Sharp Minor, Op.27 - 2 (Moonlight Sonata)-Adagio (6:19)
160. Nine Inch Nails - Hurt (6:13)
161. E.S. Posthumus - Nineveh (3:42)
162. Lacuna Coil - Un Fantasma Tra Noi (A Ghost Between Us) (5:24)
163. Track 1 (13:39)
164. Depeche Mode - My Secret Garden (4:46)
165. Bizarre Love Triangle - Psycho (4:46)
166. Beethoven - Sonata No.23 In F Minor, Op.57 (Appassionata)-Andante Con Moto (6:23)
167. Justin Timberlake - My Love ft. T.I. (Paul Oakenfold Remix) (4:59)
168. Lost Memories - The Crimson Sleep (5:22)
169. Ayria - Rain (Epsilon Minus) (0:02)
170. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Serenade No. 13 in G Major, K 525 "A Little Nightmusic" -- I. Allegro (7:53)
171. Depeche Mode - World in My Eyes (4:26)
172. Beethoven - Kreutzer-Sonata In A Minor, Op.47 Fur Piano And Violin (Kreutzer-Sonata)-Adagio Sostenuto (11:53)
173. 07 The Meaning Of Love
174. eingos euphony
175. Various - Chopin Piano Sonata No 2 in B flat minor, op 35 "March funebre" (8:20)
176. Depeche Mode - Peace (4:28)
177. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - "The Magic Flute," K 620 (Excerpts) -- "Dies Bildnis ist bezaubernd schon" (Tamino) (3:50)
178. Hungry Lucy - Apparitions Mega-Mix (5:06)
179. Paul OakenfoldBrittany Murphy - Faster Kill Pussycat (4:17)
180. Depeche Mode - My Secret Garden (Live) (7:30)
181. Drowning Pool - Hate (3:41)
182. Nine Inch Nails - I Do Not Want This (5:41)
183. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Requiem, K 626 (Completed by Franz Xaver Sussmayr) -- Lacrimosa dies illae (3:00)
184. Depeche Mode - Oberkorn (It's A Small Town) (4:09)
185. Depeche Mode - Little Soul (3:31)
186. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - A Musical Joke (Village Musicians-Sextet), K 522 -- III. Adagio cantable (6:08)
187. E.S. Posthumus - Pompeii (3:40)
188. Beethoven - Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major, Op.61-Rondo (10:55)
189. Nine Inch Nails - Where Is Everybody? (5:40)
190. Drowning Pool - Let The Bodies Hi (3:29)
191. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - The Marriage of Figaro, K 492 (Excerpts) -- "Porgi amor" (Grafin) (3:22)
192. Seether - Fade Away (3:52)
193. Depeche Mode - A Photograph Of You (Live) (3:30)
194. Faith and the Muse - Prodigal
195. Rage Against The Machine - Renaga
196. Various - Chopin Nocturne in F flat major, op15 (4:03)
197. The Cure - Hello I Love You (Rare
198. 09-Requiem, K 626 (Completed by Franz Xaver Sussmayr) -- Introitus - Requiem aeternam
199. Glitter Kisses
200. 04 Ain t No Other Man
201. Various - Liszt Reminescences de Don Juan (18:28)
202. Guilty
203. Drop Dead Gorgeous - Republica
204. 02 Tikal
205. Information Society - Running
206. 04 Ulaid
207. im dead
208. Metallica - Thorn Within
209. 11 Planet Rock
210. Rob Zombie - American Nightmare
211. Puscifer - Comfort Me
212. 02 Watching Me Fall
213. Beethoven - Sonata No.23 In F Minor, Op.57 (Appassionata)-Allegro Ma Non Troppo (8:13)
214. Depeche Mode - Spacewalker (1:53)
215. 04-Schumann Piano Concerto in A minor, op54 1st mvmt allegro affetuoso
216. VNV Nation - Beloved
217. Beethoven - Sonata No.8 In C Minor, Op.13 (Pathetique)-Grave: Allegro Di Molto E Con Brio (8:17)
218. Depeche Mode - Excerpt From: My Secret Garden (3:16)
219. Rage Against the Machine - Take t
220. PJ Harvey - No Girl So Sweet
221. The Cure - Burn (The Crow Soundtr
222. 11-1 (Quashi Una Fantasia)-Andante Allegro-Tempo I
223. 02-2 (Moonlight Sonata)-Allegretto
224. Oingo Boingo - Dead Man s Party
225. 10 Menouthis
226. Reincarnate
227. 02-Liszt Transcriptions from 12 Lieder - Erlkonig , op1
228. 12 I Am You
229. Corvus Corax- Hymnus-Cantica (Car
230. Ayria - It s Been Fun
231. Depeche Mode - Perfect (4:33)
232. Depeche Mode - Come Back (5:15)
233. Various - Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No1 in B flat minor, op23 Allego non troppo e molto maestoso (19:00)
234. tinker children childe
235. 05 The Dead of Night
236. Depeche Mode - The Sun And The Rainfall (5:05)
237. Track 3 (10:53)
238. Isabella
239. 11-Rachmaninoff Preludes, op23 - No6 in E flat major - Andante
240. 12 You're Not Alone
241. Various - Beethoven Piano Concert No 5 in E flat major op73 III - Rondo Allegro (10:47)
242. 05-Track 5
243. 03-Liszt Transcriptions from 12 Lieder - Ave Maria , op52 No4
244. Various - Beethoven Piano Concert No 5 in E flat major op73 I - Allegro (20:57)
245. Depeche Mode - Hole To Feed (3:59)
246. God Smack - I Stand Alone
247. My Succubus
248. They Killed Three Litt
249. 18 Missing (Exclusive New Oakenfold 2008 Remix)
250. Seether - Fake It
251. Linkin Park - Numb
252. 10 - depeche mode - damaged peopl
253. 05-Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 23 in A Major, K 488 -- Allegro
254. PJ Harvey - Big Fish Little Fish
255. Portishead - Numb
256. Tainted Wings
257. 07-Rachmaninoff Piano concerto No1 in F sharp minor, op1-Allegro Vivace
258. 01-Symphony No.3 in E Flat Major, Op.55 Eroica Allegro con brio
259. 02 Into the Void
260. Chopin Nocturne in F flat major, op15 - Chopin Nocturne in F major, op. 15/1 (3:23)
261. Various - Schumann Fantasy pieces op 12 -Aufschwung (3:21)
262. Various - Schumann Fantasy pieces op 12 -Des Abends (4:00)
263. 3 Days Grace - Pain
264. 08-Rondo for Piano and Orchestra in A Major, K 386 -- Allegretto
265. Chemical Brothers - Electrobank
266. 07-Track 7
267. 03-Serenade No. 13 in G Major, K 525 A Little Nightmusic -- III. Minuet - Allegretto
268. 08-Concerto for Bassoon and Orchestra in B Flat Major, K 191 -- II. Andante, ma Adagio
269. When I Am Queen
270. Beethoven - Concerto For Piano And Orchestra In G Major, Op.58-Rondo Vivace (10:35)
271. Godsmack - The Enemy
272. Baudelaire
273. Beethoven - Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No.5 In E Flat Major, Op.73-Rondo: Allegro (10:34)
274. 13 Satellite (Live)
275. Chemical Brothers - Bass Test
276. Various - Schumann Scenes from childhood, op15 "Traumerei" (3:06)
277. Drowning Pool - Tear away
278. 08-Schumann Fantasy pieces op 12 -Warum
279. 13 Isfahan
280. 02-Track 2
281. 01 Starry Eyed Surprise
282. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Ave vernum corpus - Motet - K 618 (2:57)
283. Club Mixes-Falco - Rock Me Amadeu
284. All My Lovers
285. Ludwig van Beethoven - Symphony No.9 in D Minor, Op.125: IV. Presto - Allegro assai "Ode to Joy" (10:08)
286. 04 Stop Me ft Daniel Merriweather (Exclusive New Oakenfold 2008 Remix)
287. Corvus Corax - Bretonischer Marsc
288. 02-Serenade No. 13 in G Major, K 525 A Little Nightmusic -- II. Romance - Andante
289. 07-Beethoven Piano Sonata No 23 in F Minor, op57 Appassionata 1st Mvmt
290. 04 Lay Your World on Me (Album Ve
291. 02-Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K 550 -- II. Andante
292. 09 - depeche mode - introspectre
293. Rob White Zombie - I m Your Boogi
294. 04-Symphony No.6 in F Major, Op.68, Pastoral Symphony I. Allegro ma non troppo
295. Various - Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No1 in B flat minor, op23 Andantino semplice (6:48)
296. Chemical Brothers - Galvanize
297. 06 The Fragile
298. 16 Winter Storm (Club Mix)
299. Technoir - Requiem
300. Beethoven - Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major, Op.61-Larghetto (10:48)
301. Pucifer - Rev 22-20
302. Depeche Mode - Miles Away/The Truth Is (4:14)
303. Depeche Mode - Fragile Tension (4:09)
304. 05 Ebla
305. 04-Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra in A Major, K 622 -- II. Adagio
306. Stabbing Westward - Save Yourself
307. Rob Zombie - Living Dead Girl
308. Various - Grieg Elegies for Piano, op.34 II: Last Spring (5:20)
309. 05-Beethoven Piano Concert No 5 in E flat major op73 II - Adagio un poco mosso
310. Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus - Sinfonia Concertante in E Flat Major for Violin and Viola, K 364 -- II. Andante (11:38)
311. 04-Serenade No. 13 in G Major, K 525 A Little Nightmusic -- IV. Rondo - Allegro
312. 10-The Marriage of Figaro, K 492 (Excerpts) -- Non piu andrai... (Figaro)
313. 03-Symphony No.5 in C Minor, Op.67, Destiny I. Allegro con brio
314. Corvus Corax - Isabella
315. 08 Ready Steady Go
316. Depeche Mode - Leave In Silence (4:48)
317. 03 Unfinished Sympathy (Perfecto Mix)

February's Newsletter...

February's newsletter was sent out to those signed up to receive it.

If you'd like to sign up, shoot me an email with your email addy and I'll add you to the list. =)

Isobael at gmail dot com.

January 29, 2011

Reticules and shawls...

My mother has a few rather old magazines. She crochets doilies and bedspreads, table runners, even a large canopy for her four poster bed (which I STILL want...)

When she watched me sew some reticules, we talked about crocheted drawstring purses, sewing in contrasting liner. She's excited to get to crocheting again!

Speaking of reticules, here's the end result from my project with my daughter.

The pattern we decided to go with.

The lining material. It's a darker pink than the photo shows, but not by much.

Brat's fabric - scraps of what we had left over from making her skirt.


The material for my reticule (We ended up making four with this material!)


The first two are from the scrap fabric we had left after making her skirt. Now she has a matching reticule. Actually, she has two using the same fabric. Inside, the liner is pink to match the pink bows on the skulls.



This is my reticule. We ran out of the pink so Dad found some scrap material he had, so the lining is a dark purple color. I ended up making three in this shape, using this material, and an oblong square-ish shaped bag for Mom to store her makeup in.

Shawls - I am in search of the perfect shawl. I'll probably end up making them as well, but that's not a problem. Maybe I can get Mom to crochet me one. LOL. I have to post these measurements though, so I'll have them on hand. These are typical measurements for shawls between Regency and Victorian times.


Square shawls should be in the range of 55 inches to 70 inches square with 64 inches square being standard. 

Long shawls are double squares, sometimes called plaids, which should be 55 inches wide by 110 inches long to 70 inches wide by 140 inches long with 64 inches wide by 128 inches long being the most common. 

Three-quarter shawls are 3/4ths the width and 3/4ths length of a standard double square shawl. A three-quarter shawl would be 48 inches wide by 96 inches long. 

 
I love this shawl...

OH! OHohohoh!!! Look at this! Isn't this to die for?!? I would LOVE to have a parasol like this...maybe a contrasting fabric underneath in silk or satin...


Anyway, as I said earlier...I may make mine. Probably a flannel material as it's light and easy to sew, fringes easily. If I can find a flannel material I like.

I've also read where someone took a velour throw and cut it down to a shawl size. That might be interesting. I'll check out WalMart's cheap blankets to see what it feels like. Maybe sometime this week I'll go and look.