On Eagles Wings

Fear, good or bad?

2011-06-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

Fear is a big part of our lives. More I think than we like to acknowledge.
Most of the time it is easier to see and accept fears in others than in ourselves.
One of my biggest fears is not to be needed.
Because of this I tend to stray toward people that need help. Or at least in my perception need help. This is not always a good thing.

The gentleman I have been spending time with for awhile now has large amounts of fear in his life. Fear of body image, fear that he is not good enough, fear that people only want something from him, fear that if he spends too much time around people they won't like him anymore. All fears I can understand yet it hurts to see. We have a nice 3 day weekend planned and he made the comment to me "What if you can't stand me after only a day?" He forgot about hte reverse of that. What if he can't stand me after a day. I think two people with similar fears spending time in close quarters will be a good thing. It just might reveal if the feelings are real or percieved. Only time will tell.

Sometimes fear can be a good thing. It helps us stay out of dangerous situations. It can protect us from getting hurt if we listen. It can heighten our awareness of things going on around us. Overcoming emotional fear is difficult but necessary in order to grow at least for me. Small steps that might take a lot longer than we wish are sometimes what is needed.

Hmm what to do when choices are not easy

2011-06-27T05:56:00.000-07:00

Choises.... they are a good thing so I am told.
Funny how sometimes they are not as easy as we would like to see.

Since losing over 150 pounds it still amazes me that I am treated differently by people. Because I am still the same person inside that I always was it makes me wonder if the people are interested in the outside only or who I really am.

I have a special friend that I have been spending time with since October.
He has helped me overcome some of my body image issues.
He says he cares yet frequently his actions do not match his words.
After several talks about why this is I do understand, but it does not make it any easier to deal with some days. How long do I allow for those baby steps to be taken? I know that I can be intense in how I show feelings to people and that it can overwhelm those that are not in the same place I am. Do I hold back or do I just be me? There is a button I saw that says "Never give up on someone you can't go a day without thinking about." Well, I have yet to go a day without thinking about this person yet there are times when it is painfull to do so. Again, how long before I have to protect me instead fo protecting the other person?

Now comes the other issue.
Another individual wants to spend time with me and become a friend.
I have no problems with that, as one can not have too many friends.
The issue is they have made it clear already that they are interested to see if it could become more. They want to take me out places and have me meet people they know. There is alot in commen and it is almost like talking with someone I have known for years instead of weeks. They are facign the same surgery that I have gone through and have some of the same body image issues I had and still have. I know I can be a support, but don't want to encourage when there is not really a chance for it to progress. How or do I enjoy the friendship when it could become complicated?

CHOISES ARE NOT ALWAYS EASY.

Here I am again......

2010-08-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

Hi all. I wanted to post a picture of the newest tattoo even though it is now well over a month old. I still have 1 more that I want but am still saving up the pennies for it. Once it is done then my set of four that I have always wanted will be complete. Makes me happy to be so close to that goal.

On the job front I now have 2 of them. The newest one is at an airport taking peoples money for parking. Not difficult at all, but not exactly stimulating either. I have met some great people already and have started picking out regulars. I have 2 goals for this job. Well 3 actually. First is to get a gentleman tht rarely smiles to smile on a regular basis, 2nd is to relax and let the paperwork mojo come back to me, and 3rd is to bank 75% of the money I earn for emergencies. Not bad goals in my opinion.

On the crafting front I have hit a wall. I have 1 shawl and 1 blanket to work on and NO motivation to finish either one. I guess I am a cool weather crafter after all. I mena who really wants wool or worse acrylic piled on top of them when it is warm out? I also find myself wanting to become a selfish crafter. I want to make things for me, me and oh yeah me. I can appreciate the hard work that goes into the items because I made them. One is never sure if others do or not. I have been stockpileing some special yarn for a big project and now am just waitong for the right inspiration to hit. I hope it is soon.

On the homefront things are slightly better. I received an extension of when I need to be out of the house by almost 3 weeks. That is a huge relief since I have no time to pack. I also want time to deep clean my room and at least one other before I go. I want to be able to show that I can be nice even if others are not.....

Leaving for Pennsylvania tomorrow afternoon. I am both looking forward and dreading it. I have to locate housing and a job while there if I am to move back. I als have some unresolved issues with family members to deal with. I do not want to move unless I can move straight into an apartment of my own instead of in with a friend while I look. I hate moving to begin with so why do it twice?

Well, that is about all for now. Will update again when I think of it.

Sheila

P.S. Here is a picture of the final tattoo I want. My finished product will have a few modifications of course to make it mine. I had to put the picture at the top since I can't figure out how to put ti at the bottom yet.

Sleep Who Needs It ?

2010-07-28T04:48:00.000-07:00

The answer to that one would most likely be me.
Construction on and near our street for the past few weeks.
I don't mind the beeping and the rumbling of hte machienes, but the not parking in my own driveway, that is annoying.
They sent us a notice sayign for 2 days we would have to park elsewhere.
That has now turned into a week of getting up at 5:45am so that I can move my car before they start for the day. I DO NOT like the idea of parking it where I can't see it all night.
Now it will be at least the end of the week before we can park at home again.
If it rains that delays it even more. Guess what, rain is on the horizon. YEAH!!!
In case you can't tell, lack of sleep makes me grumpy.

On the home front, doo doo head poopy face aka bob is pushing my buttons.
As a matter of fact he has invented a few new one to push.
One day really soon I am going to push back then LOOK OUT!!
He will not know what hit him.
It is all good if he wants to change the rules,b ut if I do then the answer is always no.
Makes me tempted to cook nothign but eggs and tuna for a week.
He is mildly alergic to both. ;-)

On the crafting friont I finished one prayer shawl and mailed it out.
I have another that I am kind of stalled on.
I know why I am stalled on it. It is the one I started while in FL.
I find it difficult to work on it knowing I was praying for Tom when I started it.
I will finish it and have plans to send it to another cancer patient to have.
There is no way I could keep this one. Too many emmmotions attached to it.

On the weight and exercise front I have broken my plateau.
I am back to the gym 3 days a week. I still want to get back to evcery other day and am working on it a little at a time. The weight is slowly starting to come off again.
I need to concentrate on the details to make it happen.
Small healthy meals and good choices for snacks.

Well, thats wnough for now. Will write more in a few days.
Sheila

addictions come in many different styles

2010-07-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

Now, we all know that food is an issue for me.

I have always fallen into the live to eat not eat to live category.

After the surgery it really is not any different except now I am choosy about the food.

Only because I know there is only going to be a small bit and it HAS to be good for me.

My other addiction is yarn.

Especially yarn that people tell me is hard to get or expensive.

It becomes a challenge to acquire this yarn and then for the most part it sits.

I hate that it is the owning and not the using that sucks me in.

That being said here is a picture of my newest yarns.

They came all the way from Germany.

Well if I can figure out how to beat any of these addictions I will share.

Till later.

Sheila

Quick Update

2010-07-08T08:14:00.001-07:00

Wow what a couple of weeks. I was stuck in weight loss heck on a plateau that I just couldn't break. The good news is I finally broke through and am going in the right direction once again. The insane heat we have been experiencing has helped with my water intake. It also helps with food choices since who wants heavy meals when they are already hot and sticky?

Exercise has been so so. I do go to the gym but not as often as I should. I never miss a Tuesday spin class but need to get my mojo back in that area. It does help that we are now playing volley ball every Tuesday evenign from 7 - 9pm. It is great exercise and even better fun.

I did it, I did it. I finally got the second tattoo that I have been wanting. It is a nice little Koi fish. Now I have one overtop of each part of my chest. Even though I know it will be awhile I am already planning the next one I want. Most probably on my right calf. I am thinking a nice free flowing branch with blossoms on it. That one will be my Earth tattoo. The one after that will be a styalized Phoneix to represent fire. Once that one is finished I will have one each for air, water, earth and fire. I think that will be all, but one never knows what the future brings.

My crafting has picked up a little bit. There are several new designs I want to try out and I will this time. I am learning to work with thinner yarn and smaller hooks. I even treated myself to some recycled cashmere yarn in a beautiful rasberry color. So soft, and so pretty. That will be saved for a very special project I have in mind. Now I just need some in black to compliment the berry. Maybe I should write to the person i bought it from and ask that she keep me in mind in case she comes across any.

I have been playing around with the idea of sharing this blog with some friends online. I know I can trust them to see me in all my weakness and still like me for me. They have been a big part of many of these journeys anyway so I should share with them.

Well, I have rattled on for longer than planned so I will close for now and come back again soon.

Here we are once again.......

2010-06-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying it has been awhile with many changes.

I've lost almost 100 pounds, am almost divorced (August), love the gym, and am thinking about moving back to Pennsylvania.

The saddest thing that has happened is I lost a dear friend not to his illness, but to the treatment of it. We had just re-connected in the past few months and I was looking to see where that was going. A shame that it was cut short. The GREAT thing is I was able to spend three wonderful days with him before he passed. That was such a gift from God. One I will cherish for many years to come. Tom, rest quietly knowing how much people cared for you and that you are missed.

My craftign has been on hte back burner recently. Not sure why other than it has started to get hot and I prefer to work with wool and make shawls. Too warm right now for a heavy weight yarn to hold on my lap. Maybe it is time to go back to dishcloths for a couple of months.

I will try yet again to update more often, but will not promise.

Till then may any who read this be blessed.

Sheila

What a day or in other words what a pain.

2009-12-07T04:48:00.001-08:00

Wow, today started off with a bang.
Awake at 4am due to both of us being on opposite shifts.
Husband decided ot play computer games till almost 6am.
By this time I have no hope of getting any more sleep.
I so wanted to fall into the habit of allowing food to fix it all.
I did not however do that.
Instead I had a small breakfast, my vitamin and some water.
Then I went to the gym at 6:30am.
Did 1 1/4 miles on the treadmill then came to work.
Not sure how I am going to reslove the underlying issues, but I will sure try.

Starting out on a New yet Old journey!

2009-12-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

Some of you may know and some may not, but I have entered the next phase of my weight loss journey. There are so many pitfalls out there that need not only to be avoided, but I must learn how to deal with them when they do come up. One of hte steps I took after many months of thinking about it was to have bariatric surgery. No matter what people might say, it is not cheating, it is not a quick fix. It is however a tool to be used to change and in some cases save your life. It means knowing htat I must exercise in some form every day. I must learn to not eat things that could cause me to fall into old bad habits. It means learning how to live without some of my favorite things. It is WORTH it to be health again. It is still going to be a long and slow process which is good since that means Ihave time to learn and to adjust to the new way of lving.

My crafting goes on in spurts. I will crochet like a madwoman for days then might not picl up a hook for a month. Ihave been obsessed with shawls recently, and well as buying sock yarn. The funny thing is I do not make socks, but the yarn is so soft and colorful that it is a new favorite.
I want to start making felted bags again as well as learn some new stitches and patterns. One day when the time is right I will learn to knit. There are way more options out there for knitters than for those of us that crochet.

Work continues to go well. I really love working for my church. They have been such a great source of support in all that I do. With Christmas coming up it is our busy season and that makes me happy. I would much rather have too much to do than not enough. Sadly ther is a lot of serious illness around here lately and that does add some stress to the day. All that any of us can do is pray for those that are ill and offer our help when it is needed.

Home life is as it is. Not good, not horrible but just there. Yes I still have some decisions I need to make on this frint, but I am sure that when the time is right that all will be clear to me. My 2 fur babies are thriving in this weather. MooMoo my old man kitty uses the cooler weather as an excuse to snuggle as much as I let him get away with. Mattie loves that we have not had snow yet sicne that means she is still allowed outside. I have an on again off again affair with housecleaning. If any of you organizing types need a challange, give me a holler.

I will try to update more than once every 4 or 5 months. I think putting things down where not only I but others can read them will help hold me accountable. Til next time.
Sheila

Vampires are not the only ones to bite.

2009-04-09T05:04:00.001-07:00

I thought maybe a catchy title would be a nice change.
It is true though, not only vamps bite a person.
Everyone of us is capeable of taking a chunck out of a person.
It might not be literal (at least I hope not), but we can tear out chunks
of each other.
Now to explain what I mean.
We so very often hurt the ones we love the most.
Sometimes we see it, but usually we don't.
Each time that we do it is like tearing a a chunck out of them.
Now if we do realize that we are hurting our loved ones,
why do we do it?
I can only answer for myself.
It usually means for me that it is a form of controll.
If I am upset then why aren't you?
Now this in no way makes it the right thing to do but it still happens.
There are days that we tear out a hunk of ourselves as well.
It is almost easier to hurt ourself than to hurt another.
Sometimes the love for someone wins out over our selfish nature.
Then the hurt is easier to deal with.

Monday, Monday

2009-03-30T05:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, 2 posts in just under a week.

This is probably a record for me. :)

Yesterday I had children's time at church.

It went well even though the kids had many more

questions than I had been ready for.

Usually they are very quiet. :)

I thought you all might want to see apicture of the living conditions

where I plan on going next year.

These are typical living conditions for the poeple that live on the bateys.

A great many people are involved with sugarcane as a source of income.

They have so little in material terms, yet their spiritual life is so very rich.

Ther are times when we all have what I call "poor me" syndrom.

All we need to do is look around to see just how good we have it.

On the crafting front, Ihave not 1 but 2 shawls that I really need to finish this week.

One is for a birthday on Wednesday. Yeah I know, nothing like waiting for

the last minute. The other can actually be finished when it is finished, but

my goal is to do it this week.

Tonight is my last computer class. It is on publisher.

I think this will be the most fun of all of them since I use it

to do all my newsletters and my weekly bulletins.

I do hope that the teacher is organized and ready to go right on time.

Well, I think that is all for now so will try to post again in about a week.

Sheila

Long time no blog

2009-03-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

Hi all. It has beena long time since my last entry.
I fell out of hte habit about the same time I fell off
the Weight Watchers wagon. I had been using htis as
as additional accountability feature. I should have
kept it up even after I left the group.

Oh well, on to new things and to new goal.
Next February my church has its annual
missions trip to LaRomana in the Dominican Republic.
I am going to go with them. Now the cost is huge and
way out of my reach, but a very generous lady has offered to
pay for most of it. All I have to do is get my
passport and the shots. That still leaves a chuck of change to
come up with. I figure about $600.00 or so.
I am asking that all friends and family that want to
make a small contribution toward this missions trip
instead of birthday gifts or anything like that.
I am so excited and I stil have a year to wait.

The other big project is going to be getting in shape for
the trip. It is very warm down there and right now my
weight would make that very uncomfortable for me.
My goal is to be at or under 200lbs by the trip.
That is very doable, but I will need your help.
Please do not offer me goodies and treats that are not healthy.
I am weak willed and will not say no. I give you freely
my permission to ask me what I am doing if you see me
eating things that are bad for me. :) I may grumble, but
just remind me that I said you could tell me about it.
I am also going to try to improve my cardio health this
year by walking as much as I can to as many places
as I can. Feel free to join me for a nightly walk if you want.
My goal is to get back to walking 4 miles at a time at least
two times a week plus a small 1 mile walk 3 times a week.

On the crafting front I have many, many unfinished
projects to work on. Scarves, shawls, and an almost 2 year old single
fingerless glove. One day it might have a mate. There is always
hope. Due to my goal to save money for my trip I am
going to try to severly limit my yarn purchasses this year.
If you however wish to do so for me, I shall gladly accept. :)
I love Noro, Malabrigo, Peacefleece, Alpaca, and oh so many more.

I am in another round of swap on a budget.
A great group of people that each have a goal of
spending $20.00 to put together a nice package for another person.
With that in mind and in case my spoiler is reading
2nd hand books are great in my opinion. I am very open to
anything you think I might like. I will try to post more often
during the swap to help you get to know me a little better.
I would love a water bottle holder or a felted coffee mug
sleeve. Just a coulpe ideas in case you are looking. :)

Well, this is a lot longer than I had planned so I had better close it off for now.
Please feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think.

Sheila

recovery / swaps / is it holiday time?

2008-10-31T07:53:00.001-07:00

Next time I open my mouth to offer my help with someone elses project, would one of you all stuff a sock in me. I loved helping, but it took sooooooo much more time than I had anticipated.
I was guessing at 4 or 5 hours, it turned into almost 48 total.
She was very gratefull, and rewarded me for my help, but wow.

I love me my yarn swaps and projects. My current swap I am in Swap on a Budget is slow going this round. My spoilee has not posted but a very few times making it hard to decide what to get her. I have a "generic" box of goodies ready, but wanted to make it personal and special just for her.
On the Spoiler front, I have no clue whi it is and that is half the fun. I have been trying to be chatty enough on theboards, as well as post here about my yarn goings on to help them. I hoep they have enough to go on.
I might be picking uip a great dresser to hold all my yarn this afternoon. It is 68" long, 18" deep and 30" high. It has 9 drawers to be filled with yarny goodness. I hope one day to have it filled that is. Right now I could fill some of it, but not anywhere near all. It will be nice to be able to spread out my yarn by type and color though.

I am ready for the holidays to begin please. I love the cooking and family time of Thanksgiving, and the Peace and Comfort that came to us through Jesus at Christmas. This is going to be a happy holiday season this year as I am focusing on feelings not things. I as well as most people I know have more than enough things in their lives. It is time to get back in touch with our feelings. Maybe mend a bridge or two with family, maybe reach out to some friends. One never knows where the spirit of the heart might lead.

The ICK

2008-10-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

Funny how something as simple as a cold can make you feel so rundown.
The simplest tasks suddenly feel very complicated.
Yesterday I ran 3 small errands, but it took almost 3 hours and I just wanted to crash when I was done. I did go home and have a nap.
I actually am a big fan of naps. It is amazing what a good 30 minutes can do to revitalize your day. I would schedule one in my daily plans if that were possible.

On the crafting front there is not much going on.
I have 2 scarves to work on, and 5 dishcloths to make.
I also have a special someone that I want to make a shawl for, but that is on hold for a few days.
I just received my last sp12 box in the mail and it had some very pretty sock yarn in it. That means I need to bite the bullet and make some socks, or at least try to.
I was a very bad girl and ordered some great yarn ina super bulky to make myself a felted bag.
I can't wait for it to arrive.

Well, thats about it in my world for now. If you stop by, feel free to leave me a note.
Oh, and please be prayign for a friend that is going through surgery, and a small boy who is very ill.

Swap On A Budget Fall Edition

2008-10-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

Yeah, my favorite swap has started up round 3. I am so enjoying this one.
I have had great spoilers both times before this and am sure I will again this time also.
I love the stalking involved with learning about the new person I get to spoil all for $20.00.
That makes it both challenging and fun.
So far my new spoilee is not posting much at all. That does make it more difficult. Still doeable, but difficult.

Now for info that my spoiler might be able to use.
hmmmmmmmmmm
Reynolds lite lopi is a new fvorite yarn for me to work with.
I have very little of it and would welcome more in almost any color.
I love Noro yarn all versions.
I am in love with all the colorways that have purple in them. :)
I like office supplies alot.
I enjoy a bunch of little things from dollar stores as treats. (note to self remind hubby of that.)
I usually fixate on a new stitch or pattern till I have it as close to perfect as I can get it.
A stitch a day type thingy for crochet would be awesome.

I am actually easily pleased and just enjoy hte process quite often.
I know I will love anything you get me.
I will try to post something each week to help you in case you get stuck for ideas.

GRRRRRRRRRRR

2008-10-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

Strange title I know, but work rant on the way.
At work they always want me to keep them informed of when groups are comign so that they can plan accordingly. But do theyreciprocate NO!!!!!
Today I have not 1 or 2 but 3 groups using the building nad they have a man out there painting all thje doors and frames. I mean come on. Use logic. Wet paint na many hand needing to open doors = disaster. To top it off the "painter" had no wet paint signs to put up.
Rand ove and I now return you to your regularly scheduled blog.

Ups and Downs

2008-10-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying that Weight Watchers works when you follow the program.
I however have not been following the program, which is why I was up 3/4 of a pound this week.
I took a pulled muscle as an excuse to eat more instead of being just as if not more careful than normal. Now I know that it is a very good thing to write down what I eat so I can see patterns and try to make corrections, but I have been really slack about that recently.
Tonight I had the offer to stay home from the meeting because I knew I was going to be up a bit. Well, I needed to go to a meeting more than ever because of being up.
The support, advice and tips one gets are inaluable to success.
Till next week..............

SP12 question 13

2008-09-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

First of all, please forgive the lack of updates.
I have been dealing with a few inor health issues.
They have been more annoying than anything else, but did not put me in a blogging mood.

If you were told you could never again buy yarn, would would your last yarn purchase be?
As much malibrigo as I could afford.

If you were told you could never crochet again, what would be the last thing you’d knit??
Probabbly a toss up between one last prayer shawl, and an afgan.

In a given year, how many times do you buy yarn? At least twice a month.

And what is your favorite place to buy yarn from? A festival? A shop? Online? Yes, all of the above.

Dish your favorite places!! Sage gifts and yarn, etsy shops espically Georgiegirl's, and anywhere I see a good deal.

Lastly, with Fall in full swing in many areas, what is the one thing you look forward to most? The cooler weather and the chance to work on some heavier projects.

For the most part SP12 has been a good time. I look for SP14 as SP13 comes at a bad time of year for me.

10 %

2008-08-27T05:01:00.000-07:00

It is amazing what we will do for 10%.
Be it 10% off a store sale, or in this case 10% off my weight.
I have been on weight watchers twice now.
The first time I did ok, but never could reach that 1st benchmark of 10%.
I was beginning to think that i would not make it this time either.
I sat home on Sunday night ready to just give it all up.
I mean why bother to try when you are going to fail anyway.
Then, I went to my meeting on Monday night.
When she told me I was down 1.8 pounds I was in shock.
That meant I had reached that elusive goal of 10% of my body weight gone.
I started grinning like a nut, and didn't stop the whole night.
I was amazed at how much it caused me to want to get to that next 10% gone.
The good thing about the 2nd round is it takes a little less to get there.
Now this does not mean it will be easy, but it will be easier because it has already been done.

SP12 questions 10 & 11

2008-08-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

Question 10: What Olympic event would best describe your chrocheting style?
The origional question was knit, but I am not a knitter so I changed it to crochet.

My style would best be described as the 100yard dash followed by the relay.
I like to pick small projects that I can finish in a quick burst, or really big ones that I have to do instages.

Question 11: What is the best thing you’ve ever received in the mail/post?
During my 1st swap on a budget a great lady sent me 2 skeins of frog tree alpaca in black.
It was my first ever alpaca, and is still my favorite. The best part about it is that she has become a great friend.

SP12 package 2

2008-08-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am finally getting around to posting the 2nd fantastic package from my spoiler. She or he sent 3 skeins of a beautiful soft Italian wool blend, a great book on crocket stitches (which I have already used), a neat magnet, and a postcard on how to make an Elvis sandwitch. :) They did a great job.

Secret Pal Questions 8 & 9

2008-08-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am once again behind on my sp12 questions.
One of these days I will get he hang of posting my answers when I am sent the questions..........

Q8) What is your favorite supper for a hot summer evening?
Truthfully, I am just as happy with a huge hunk of watermelon as anything.
Seafood is also a great summertime dinner for me.

Q9) Have you ever entered your knitting (or anything else) in the fair? Would you ever consider it?
Nope, I never have entered anything, and I dobt that I would. I am not into all the tiny details that make a fair winner.

Weigh In Catch Up

2008-08-08T05:49:00.000-07:00

Last week was an other good week.
Another 1.6 down.
Now I am only 3.2 away from my 1st 10% goal.
I was shocked that I had lost almost 24 pounds so far.
Some days it is so easy, and many others it is a struggle.
Till Monday......

SWOAB swap on a budget

2008-08-01T17:04:00.000-07:00

Wow, did I get an awesome package all teh way from the North Coast of Scotland. Magnusmog sent so many great items. She even thought of my two cats. :) Lets see, there is a great pencil, 2 cat toys, a package of stickers (which I will use on special gifts,) a skein of inca cloud alpaca in a great deep rick pink, a skein of 100% wool in a heathered purple, a great hank of HOMESPUN white, and a SECOND skein of HOMESPUN mixed red. Then there was the best ever HOMEMADE hat. I love it!!!! As youcan see It is the hat I am wearing in my newest ravatar. :) The colors are a mix of HANDDYED purple, red, and hot pink. There was even a great card. To top it all off, she even wrapped alot of it in dragonfly paper. I love dragonflys. I even managed to save the largest piece. THANK YOU so much Miss Jerri. :)

Newest weigh in and sp12 question 7

2008-07-28T16:56:00.001-07:00

My latest weigh in has me down another 1.6 pounds.
This makes me very happy.
It deffinitly is requiring more effort tolose than it did to put on.

SP12 question 7
We are all creatures of habit and when it comes to sitting down to knit, it’s no different…
What is(are) your favorite place(s) to knit?
Sitting curled up on the corner of my couch, except I crochet not knit.

and

What supplies (besides yarn & needles) make the setting perfect for knitting?
I like to have at least 5 or 6 sizes of hooks, sissors, a drink (water) and a book for when i want a break.

Angels

2008-07-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

I was in the black yarn swap, and for some reason never received a package.
However a nice angel named Yo-El sent a great package to make up for it.
This is all that was inside. There was a great card, a candle, mints, a pattern, a bamboo crochet hook, 2 mini skeins of habu textiles, and a giant skein of Re Fa Baruffa cashwool.

Thank you again Yo_El.

SP12 questions 4 & 5 & 6

2008-07-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

Q4: 1) What yarn (that you don’t have/haven’t used) would make your stash “complete”? 2) What yarn do you never want to be without?**

I would love to have some malibrigio or noro of my own
I like to always have some boucle, some cotton, and some wool around.

Q5: 1) Where is your favorite place to go for vacation/holiday? 2) Where is one place you’d like to go?

My favorite place to go is Alabama as I have friends ther that I miss so much.
I would love to go to Alaska, Ireland, and Austrailia. Yes I know it asked for 1, but i couldn;t decide.

Q6: Questions #6 What is your favorite type of project to take along on holiday/vacation?
If you’d like to share a story…Tell us about a time that you packed too much knitting or were stranded without knitting.

I like to take along a scarf since it is small, and now I would also take along some dishcloth cotton. I am really getting into it.
I have never packed too much crochet, and if I amstranded with none then i would buy some sugar and cream and a small hook and go at it. :)

OOps, I have fallen behind. :(

2008-07-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, so much to get caught up on.

Weigh in this week was ok. It was a 1/4 pound down so

that is a win as far as I am concerned.

Swapping has been weird recently.

I am still waiting on my blackyarn swap.

It is coming from England, but was mailed over a month ago,

so I am a bit concerned.

All my scarf swaps are going well.

I am waiting on 2 of them to come in

today or tomorrow so i can add my sections

and mail them backout again.

My SP12 swap is going well.

I received my first package inthe mail

the other day and it is awesome.

Here is a picture.

3 is a great number

2008-07-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

Last night at weigh in I was down 3 pounds.
I was shocked to be honest. I had that bloated
feeling all day. I am sure that all the walking I did last week helped me.
We had a challenge and I bid 500 walking minutes.
I ended up doing 590. That included a 2 1/2 hour walk
that I took with my husband. We started out thinking
a quick walk to main street and back. It turned into a 4 mile
long journey into foot pain. :)
I really enjoy going for long walks, but hate to carry my
water bottle along. I need to make one of those crocheted
water bottle holders that hang off of your shoulder.
That way I can stay hydrated and walk longer.

On another craft note, I have been making dishcloths.
I have found a pattern I like that is easy to follow.
That makes me more willing to keep making them till
I can both share some and use some. Now I just need to
go and buy some more surgar and cream cotton.
I think I like the varigated the best so far.

Till next week or so. :)

Yarn doesn't have points

2008-06-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

Wow, today i drove up to my LYS and stayed within 5 dollars of my budget.
I was really shocked since I bought 2 hanks of a;paca, 1 of Malibridgio, and 2 hanks of sock yarn. I was very happy with that. Most of the yarn is for swaps I am in, but one of the alpacas is mine all mine.

After I got home it was time for weight watchers, and I was down another 3/4 of a pound. I am thrilled with my progress so far. I am doing it for me this time, so it is working much better.

I spent time creating an amazon wish list for anyone that wants to learn about my tastes. I also actually put things in my que on ravelry as well.
Tonights yarn mission is to do 3 granny squares for a project.

See yu all next week or when the next SP12 question comes out.

another 1/2 & secret swap questions 2&3

2008-06-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

Well, last weeks weigh in was another 1/2 pound gone.
I will take it. Any amount gone is a victory as far as I
am concerned.

On a crafty note, I finished my first fingerless glove the other night.
Now to do the 2nd one. I also started working on some granny squares
for blankets for wildfire victims.
My next project is going to be to try to make a pair of socks for myself.
I have the yarn, but have never done any before.

Well, I should answer my last 2 secret pal questions of the week while I am here.

Question 2 As a kid, what did you look forward to most about summer vacation/break/holiday?
For me it was being able to read to my hearts content. I am a big reader and summer ment even more time to myself.

Question 3 What would you consider the perfect amount of stash?
Wow, that is a loaded question. I have one small trunk, and 2 baskets right now, but they are mostly acrylic. I want to build a natural yarn stash next. The amount for me would be enough to enjoy but not so much that it wil never get used.

See you all next week.

Point Be Gone

2008-06-16T17:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, tonight was a great weight in.

I lost another 2 pounds and 1 food point.

I was thrilled with those results.

Now to keep the momentum going.

Tonight I want to start my scarf so I can get it in the mail.

I think I know which yarn I am going to use, but not positive.

secret pal 12 q of the week

2008-06-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

Now for something a little different - this round I'm going to send you a weekly question that you can answer on your blog to let your spoiler get to know you better. I also thought it would be fun way to get everyone into the blogging routine. I will play along too on my blog.

Here's the first question:

What's your favorite summertime drink? Dell's Frozen Lemonaide
It is slushy, and has chunks of lemon in it. YUMMY!!

I am going to try and put my questionaire on the side for easy use. :)

This and That

2008-06-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

I am about a week behind inmy posting.

Last Monday I lost 1.8 at weigh in.

This week may not be so good, as I have been only 1/2

on the wagon with the tracking. I know that I do better

when I track every single bite.

I did however have a great exercise week.

I hit curves 4 yes 4 times this week.

That was big for me. I also did alot of baking this past

week. I did give most of it away though.

This coming Monday will be a good weigh in no matter

what the scale says.

I have been in craft overload mode lately.

I finished 9 of my 12 blocks for an afgan exchange,

shopped for and mailed out item for a black yarn swap,

and finished another prayer shawl. Now I need to finish my

last 3 afgan blocks then I want to start a new project. I have

no clue yet what that will be.

Secret Pal 12 Questions

2008-05-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? I have been getting into wool recently, but would like to try alpaca and soy also. Most any naturel fiber is great. As far as acrylics go I love Boucles and lion homespun.

What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Fun fur, or any novelty yarns. I just don't like the feel of most of them.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? The packages they come in.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? I do not knit, only Crochet. :( I do want to learn one day.

Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? For crochet intermediate on some, beginner on others. So far no knitting.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Not yet but that may change.

5. What's your favorite scent? I like spicy scents but eculyptus and peppermint are two favorites. I can not stand vanilla scent or any that are very strong.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Yes, most of my teeth are sweet....LOL I have to be in the mood for candy, but like cherry or berry flavored items.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I do some cross stich, and I bake. I consider baking a craft.

Do you spin? No :(

8. What kind of music do you like? I like Christian, country, classical, and clean comedy like Jeff Foxworthy, Mark Lowrey, or Chandra Pierce.

Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) As far as I know yes.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? I love purple, black, rich deep pinks, and blues.

Any colors you just can't stand? Orange, neon green or any neon, overly bright yellows.

10. What is your family situation? One husband no kids.

Do you have any pets? Yes, 1 fish (Mr. Fishy Fish) 6 yes 6 birds cockatiels, and 2 cats ( Mr. Moose, and Mad Mattie)

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Yes, once in awhile, sometimes, and don;t own one.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I don't knit, but I like to crochet scarves, small lapgans, and prayer shawels.

13. What are you knitting right now? I am Crocheting 12 12" blocks for an afgan swap. I just started making coasters as well.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? I love them as the thought put into them makes it extra special.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? No needles here, only hooks.

Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I like both the acrilic hooks, and aluminum ones. I would love a set of the new clear ice hooks.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? No, but a near friend does. :) She let me use it. :)

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Wow, almost 2 years which means it will probably never get finished now.

18. What is your favorite holiday? Easter and Christmas tie due to their meanings for me. As far as secular holidays, thanksgiving because of the cooking and baking.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Yes, Phantom of the Opera items, coffee Mugs, office supplies, and yarn......

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? I would like a book on one skein projects for crochet. I also saw the Lyon now has a book of just homespun shawls. A book for crochet dishcloths would be nice, or one on granny squares. I don't have many books so any would be great.

What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? None.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Yes, any and all related to knitting.

22. Are you a sock knitter? Nope, again I want to learn.

What are your foot measurements? No clue how to measure, but I wear a size 7 ladies in U.S. shoes.

23. When is your birthday? Just passed on May 6th.

24. Are you on Ravelry? Yes

If so, what's your ID? Shebear29

Busy and loving it

2008-05-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a busy week.

I am trying to up the gym ante and

it is paying off. I had a lose of 1.8 this week.

That is the best I have had in some time.

I think part of it is I have really been

trying to follow the 8gh. The other thing is

I have been working as hard as I can at

getting more movement into my life.

The other part of being busy is that I

have been doing alot of crocheting.

I have made 2 scarves, one shoulder warmer,

and 1 shawl all in the past 3 weeks. I am trying

to branch out and learn new color combos, and new

patterns. The main reason for that is I like joining

swaps online. I can't be afraid to try new things anymore.

My next project is to do a fairly through

spring cleaning. Not my favorite thing to do,

but it really needs to be done. If any of you out there want

to come help just let me know.

Till next week............me. :)

Birthday survival

2008-05-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

I did it, Isurvived my birthday with a small amount of 3/4 of a
ppund down. I was very concerned as I really did not count
points very well this past week. I figured that 1 week out of 52 I
was going to enjoy. I know know that I can MODERATLY enjoy
almost anything. I did still go work out 2 days and I think that
helped me quite a bit. It is funny that even when I was going
to allow myself to "be bad" I was more carefull than I used
to be. We hit a buffet and I had 1 1/2 plates instead of my
more normal 3 to 4 plates. Even dessert was in moderation
this time. I had two small quarter size pieces of fudge and
about 1/3 cup of banana pudding. Slowly but surly this
journey continues.

Another one bites the dust

2008-05-05T20:13:00.000-07:00

Well, one more pound gone.

I am happy with that.

Tomorrow is my 1st weigh and measure

at curves. They do that once a month and

if you have done well you go on their

biggest looser board.

Even though this is my first one, i want to be on that

board. I'm not competitive at all am I???

See you all again next week if not before.

ok, I am back

2008-04-28T19:39:00.000-07:00

I took a week off, but all is well in my world. I am down another pound, and that makes 10.2 pounds in 8 weeks. I am content with this.
Going to curves is going really well.
I am almost enjoying it.
Actually, it is relaxing to me.
I am sleeping much better at night.
See you all again next week.

2008-04-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

1. Do you knit, crochet, or both? Crochet

2. What do you prefer to knit or crochet? (socks? Sweaters? Cables?) What would you like to try to knit or crochet? I do shawels, scarfs, diaper covers, and am learning shrugs.

3. What are your hobbies outside of knitting or crocheting? Reading, cooking, baking, games

4. Do you have any fiber allergies? NONE Fiber preferances? naturel is always good.

5. Do you have any favourite books, music, or TV shows? If so, what are they? Almost any book by James Patterson, John Grishom. Music almost anything except rap or hard rock. Tv shows = reality tv addict.

6. Do you have any pets? Yes, 6 birds, 2 cats, a fish and a husband. :P

7. Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks? Salty

8. Do you prefer coffee or tea? That is a close one, but minty or fruit teas are great.

9. Aside black, which colours do you like/dislike? I like Black, purple, deep rich pinks, and blues.
I dislike bright colors, espically orange, and anything neon.

10. What is your favourite time of the year? (season-wise or holiday-wise) Season wise would be fall.

11. What is your favourite scent? Mint

12. What do you collect? Phantom of the Opera items, yarn, and coffee mugs.

13. If there's anything else you'd like your swappee to know, list them here: Strong perfume makes me ill, and smoke smell gives me nasty headaches. I also really do not like vanilla.

so close

2008-04-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

Well, this has been a busy week.

I joined Curves and have had 2 workouts.

I am down another pound.

We celebrated the birthday of a friend.

That same friend joined WW with us.

There are now 6 all from the same church that go

to the meetings, and a 7th that does it online.

We have a great group of ladies to support

each other. By next weigh in I should hit my

first mini goal of 10 pounds.

It has taken longer than I expected, but this way

I know it will stay off longer.

Till next week.

plugging away

2008-04-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well, down another 1 1/4 pounds.
I always hope for more, but I shall take it.
This was a rough week. I had both "tom" hit and
a cold. That is no excuse for me not to have been OP
all week, but I did use it as such.
The good thing is I started a challange with a bunch
of Divas this week. Being accountable to not only
myself but others helps me stay focused.
The challange involves exercise each day as
well as following the 8 good health guidelines.

Going Down.....

2008-04-01T19:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry I am a day late posting, but this weeks weigh in held some surprizes.

I went to my meeting, and saw not 1 but 3 people from church and 1 from

work and 3 that used to go way back when I did. It was awesome to see

them again. Now for the good news. DOWN 1 1/2 pounds this week. That makes

a total of 7 1/2 pounds in 4 weeks. That makes me very happy.

I am thinking about joing curves for some exercise. I need the extra push to help

me along. I need to remember that I did not gain it all at once, and that slow off is

actually the best way for it to come off. Lifestyle change, not diet.

Till next week........Sheila

P.S. If any of youfierce divas stop by, please leave a comment so that I know

you were here.

Up again

2008-03-24T18:56:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post and hold myself accountable.
Tonights weigh in was up 1/4 pound. I am actually okay
with that since I lost 5.2 last week. It was explained to me that
with that big a lose due to illness, that if I maintained or went up a bit that it was normal. Next week is a new week. I did have a victory of sorts.
I walked to and from my meeting tonight.
I am estimating that it was a mile each way.
Until next week......

Done and Done

2008-03-23T05:13:00.000-07:00

Wow, my first swap and I am already done with it. :( Makes me a little sad to be truthfull. I enjoyed the shopping nad trying to decide what tog et my partner in the swap. I can't wait to sign up for my next one. :)

Weigh to Go

2008-03-17T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, tonight is weigh in night and ......drum roll please.

I am down another 5.2 pounds.

Now I admit I was not feeling well for 3 1/2 days this week, but I will take the loss.

The goal for next week is to maintain the loss, and possibly add to it.

I will track everything I eat this week, and just maybe add a small tiny bit of exercise.

Now I never thought I would be excited, but I lost an eating point tonight.

It is all based on age, weight, and job type. I am glad to have 1 less to use.

My ultimate goal is to have about 1/3 less than I do now.

Color Swap

2008-03-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

Favorite Color Swap Questionnaire

1. What are your top three favorite colors? Purple, blue and rich deep pinks

2. What crafts do you really enjoy? crocheting, some cross-stitch (too busy right now)

3. What products do you really covet? hand dyed natural fiber yarns

4. What other activities do you enjoy besides your favorite crafty things? reading, cooking, baking

5. Is there anything you collect? Phantom of the Opera items, office supplies

6. What is your zodiac sign and/or Chinese zodiac symbol? Don't do either one....

7.What are your favorite……scents/smells? rose, fresh cut grass, (CAN'T STAND vanilla)…
types of music and/or bands? Christian, country …
authors?James Patterson, Patricia Cromwell, Robert Ludlum, …
animals? Cats, Birds, Fish…
places to shop? Not really a shopper…
season? Fall…
yarn/fabric/paper/other craft supplies? Lion Brand Yarn, no special fabric, specialty papers are always nice, anything different in supplies…
candies or goodies? No thank you as I am watching my weight

8. Do you have any wish lists? Not as far as crafting goes

9. Are you allergic to anything? only certain meds.

10. Do you have any pets? What are they? Yes, 2 cats and 6 birds

11.Please include anything else you would like your secret pal to know about you- anything that would be helpful in finding you little gifts that you will really enjoy. Also, if you have a Ravelry ID, please include it here.

The puppy is a Siberian husky that belonged to a friend.
I do have a Ravelry id, it is shebear29. I admit I don't use it much at this time.

Thank You

2008-03-10T17:37:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share a picture of two of the beautiful headcoverings that I have from a home based bussiness called Garlands Of Grace. You can find them here http://www.garlandsofgrace.com/

These sisters make great coverings that can be used as wide headbands or as prayer covers. I have purchassed several from them in the past 6 months, and today they sent me one as a gift. The ladies are a special blessing. One of teh sisters did the hand embrodery on the top covering. It happenes to be my favorite Bible verse.

down is up

2008-03-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

Well, tonight was my first weigh in, and I was down 1.2 pouinds. Yes I admit for all the work I was bit dissipointed (I was aiming for 2). The good thing is it was a LOSE!! Any weight that goes down makes me go up in attitude. Each week, each day is a battle, but it is worth it. Better health is the ultimate goal.

To Share or not to share

2008-03-06T04:51:00.001-08:00

Well, I have been trying to decide if I wanted to share this or not.

Then I figured why not, maybe someone else can relate.

I am obese, not fat, not overweight, and not fluffy.

This is a new start not for looks, but for health.

When going up stairs or getting up off the floor is difficult, it is

time to make some changes. It is amazing how easily we decieve ourselves

into thinking that all is well, and that it is only a pound or two.

Well, let me tell you that 30 or 40 pounds extra on top of already being a big girl DO NOT HELP!!!

My plan of choice for now is weight watchers.

I need the accountability of a meeting and a weight in that is public.

I know that this MUST be a new lifestyle, not a diet.

Diets FAIL, I know I have tried most of them.

So, since this blog is a new start of sorts, thought I would share my other new start as well. See you all again soon.

Hatchling

2008-03-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I feel like a hatchling as I am as new to blogging as a baby bird is to the nest.
This will be a new and hopefully exciting journey and you are invited along for the flight.
I will try to update weekly, more often if my life is interesting, less if it is not.