Tue - March 6, 2007

Moving 


Moving over to typepad blog 

I am really enjoying the possibilities of the new angora blog so if you are looking for more posts, you can find them here .

Address is
http://angorasjournal.typepad.com/angoras_journal/
 

Posted at 08:12 AM    

Wed - October 4, 2006

Still here 


Better days ahead 

The last few days have been so busy, just doing stuff. October promises to be a great and expensive month. Trips are planned, projects to start making and the holiday season is upon us. I am finding my feet again, and the speech recognition software installed on my computer needs to be tamed a bit. I am at a crossroads, the autumn heralds evenings in with knitting needles, hot chocolate and podcasts. I am still knitting in the round on my blue sweater and spinning yarns. The amount of processing is slowing down but the enthousiasm is welling up. I love evenings in to make swatches, tidy cupboards and google for yarns and patterns. What do you do besides knitting?
 

Posted at 03:23 PM    

Mon - October 2, 2006

That's life! 


When to pick up those needles and run with it....  

Its autumn, the weather is changing and I am looking forward to cosy nights in by the fire.
So far today, these things have been building up towards a knitting evening :
Dad in hospital
Flour bag exploded when opening box, covering floor and persons.
Chicken feeder destroyed, needed to sort new one.
Cockerell crowing as water supply had been kicked over.
Helped Dh in search of a fitted bedsheet...he pulled a muscle and ended flat on his back.
Made beds staying calm.......
only to come down and find the dog had emptied the bin and left the contents all over the floor.
Guess the family are feeling the strain!!!!

Looking forward to a nice hot bath, weepy movie, chocolates and knitting.
Tomorrow is a new day.

Take this post with a note of sarcasm, its been a hard day but I am looking after myself and knitting is a big part of that. 

Posted at 05:07 PM    

Mon - September 4, 2006

Spirituality and Craft 


The Church of Craft? 

To me, knitting and crafting takes me into a meditative state so i was intrigued to find that there is a chapter of the Church of Craft in London . Neat idea I have to say. A community whose ethos is surrounding crafting together.  

Posted at 03:07 PM    

Wed - August 30, 2006

Time to dream and wonder 


Autumn is in the air 

( Image courtesy of www.allposters.co.uk)

Time is one of those things that ticks away without us noticing it and summer does the same. The heatwave of weeks ago is a distant memory, I have packed my summer clothes away and am looking forward ( does one ever!) to cooler weather, knitted socks and warm sweaters. I am about to finish hush in RYC silk, cotton and will post a picture of the finished item soonest. I am still getting to grips with added technology and toying with the idea of a website. I wonder and IT support organises and plots.
 

Posted at 08:46 PM    

Wed - July 12, 2006

Studio workplace planning 


Creating your creative space 

Having got the studio built out of recycled materials, an old sports pavillion, it took a year to get it moved to the right spot, then put back together, mended, painted, insulated on the inside and then painted and what I have in there is an old kitchen cupboard set with storage underneath and a worktop on the top. My spinning wheel and 2 white chairs with gingham cover on it.
I had a lot of inspiration from the book Creating your Perfect Quilting Space by lois L Hallock which had a variety of plans and room makeovers which are worth exploring. I am on a very tight budget hence a lot of the items are preowned but trying to find a work table has been interesting. The book has a lot of rooms which use the Galant table from Ikea and although initially great it just looked too big and desklike in the store.
I have spotted this one , which has an interesting glass surface to bring light to the table and I am debating about it. The legs enable the height of the table to be changed when necessary to enable good ergonomics, and they also provide some space underneath to store a sewing machine or inspiration box. I am debating what is what, and how far the budget will stretch......... Choices, choices, ....nothing for it, will plug the ipod in and listen to a knitting podcast, mull over and knit..... 

Posted at 11:24 AM    

Tue - July 4, 2006

TIMES HAVE CHANGED 


On football 

I never took a great deal of interest in the football mania that overtook the UK although one could not help but notice the large flags on windows and the little flags sticking out of car windows. It created a sense of patriotic feeling between people otherwise separated and leading separate lives. Babies wore Tshirts with ‘ England Babe’ written all over it. In the supermarket, I was stopped by a mature lady asking me whether I could tell her which Tshirt suited her best, the white one or pink one. I chose a colour at random because I could not really tell her that neither was suitable to her. But then, how come I am an authority on Tshirts?
DD, who lives in the city, was trying to quietly read a book and told me on the phone: ‘ You know Mum, you do not need a Tv set in the city to catch what is going on, its like a wave, people go ahhhh, ooooh and all I am trying to do is read a book.
England lost and what followed were pictures in the tabloid press about Sven saying sorry and David Beckham resigning as captain. Now there appears to me no mention of the football at all. Flags are coming down slowly and the temporary euphoria that swept the country has been replaced by a heat wave. I wonder who is winning at football now, as no one seems to even mention it here. There is disbelief, grief and awe at a lost opportunity. It just shows that the english are not reserved about everything, football matters to young and old, the media too.....so who is going to wear that Tshirt saying Football Babe?
Everything is being sold at knockdown prices and nobody is buying....no one wants to buy items that now mean defeat as where 6 weeks ago, they were a sign of hope. Times have changed. 

Posted at 08:59 PM    

Sun - May 28, 2006

Garden calls 


Knitting with odds and ends 

My energies are needed in the garden, weeds are growing fast. I have little boys who are quite happy to help with the carding of the washed fleece and the spinning is getting on well too.More hopefully about that later. 

Posted at 07:56 PM    

Thu - May 4, 2006

A FEW OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS 


Let me see, where do I start? 

Here's what I spun today, some lovely colonial roving which has turned out really well. Not sure how it will knit up. Its mainly blue with specks of purple, green and red. Purple, blue and pink being my fav colours at the moment. I actually really like anything apart from black and neon colours. Pinky purple is a good colour wheel base.

I could not resist this picture in the garden this morning, it just looked such perfection.
Strawberries are one of my favourite things as is chocolate. Shame no one has yet invented a yarn that smells of vanilla when you spin it or wear it now that could be cool.

Off to prepare my garden fresh as a daisy meal.....quiche and salad from the garden. 

Posted at 05:05 PM    

Fri - March 24, 2006

BLOGAVERSARY 


Yeah, I am 1 

Happy Blogaversary to me!
Sounds such a short time, I have learnt lots but am still not that ofay with the techno side of things. When it works, it works great, when it does not, it makes me yelp.

So, if you have been a regular reader let me know your thoughts. Monologues can be sadly narcistic.
How am I feeling today? This should say it all. Change cannot do to must not do. I just love the Savage Chickens
 

Posted at 09:12 AM    

Thu - March 23, 2006

QUOTE TO INSPIRE 



Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet.
Only through experience of trial and suffering can
the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition
inspired, and success achieved. 
~Helen Keller 

Posted at 06:48 PM    

Mon - March 13, 2006

IF IN DOUBT CRAFT AWAY 


Pieced together....... 

Thanks to a cheery DD who has been faithfully working away on the above quilt, life has been bearable. The sewing machine got clogged up a couple of times and I had to give up a few times by simply saying, no, no more energy, cannot do this again today.......she has been patient, kind and persevered with her first quilt. We have also laughed together, I have done a lot a crying but all in all I am really pleased with her attempt at using her holiday time while Mum is exhausted and housebound. The quilt is the result of patience on her behalf. The other side has the cooler colours of the spectrum.

I am feeling a bit happier today, enough to be sitting up, drinking tea and listening to my ipod music and podcasts. Hopefully the trend continues to go up. Bottoming out is no fun.

Tomorrow will knit some I think to diversify the brain from painful muscles. It works.
 

Posted at 08:13 PM    

Sun - March 12, 2006

SNAKES AND LADDERS 


Hmm what did I miss on the way up I wonder? 

I have not been posting lots lately because the energy level took a serious dive. Its a bit like snakes and ladders, when you think you are doing well in the game, you meet a snake and you slide down. How far down, you have no idea until you bump on the bottom of the tail. I am spending days in bed again, no knitting at present as my muscles ache and are just too tense but I am surrounded by lots of loving and caring people who are beginning to see through my forced smile. My children decided today to do Mothers Day in advance, it was not really mothers day but make mother happy day. Breakfast was a pancake with grapes laid out as a smiley face, a nice warm cup of honey flavoured medicinal drink, a flower in an eggcup and.....another secretive and well thought out present, well more than one actually. The moment itself and the build up to the present were wonderful and if only for that it was worth falling down the snake again. Maybe everything is just as it should be. Thats how I cope with it I think. The present.......a nano ipod to enable me to listen to podcasts and music while I am resting in bed, lying on the sofa, just want to switch off or when I want to knit in my chair. It was a thank you for the wonderful escaping holiday. They must have been saving together for a long time. I am blessed, I have great kids and even though the little and big rascals give me surprises, they are nice ones, they work together to achieve something and they can be very secretive about it. I feel loved and that is a priceless feeling that warms an aching heart.

I also want to say a big thank you to M, for just coming to pick up my droopy body, transplant it in front of your fire in your lounge and supply me with lots of TLC. There is no greater feeling than being miserable on your knees and having friends and family who show how much they love you. I wish you the latter, the first, the being miserable ideally should be skipped and unnecessary.

Ok, I am emotional too today but that goes with the territory and is apparently a normal response when you are on your knees.

Knitting will be resumed shortly.

If you have a friend or a family member who is not feeling that great, a bit lonely, achy and needs a bit of TLC,go ahead, even if they grunt and say 'I am fine', trust your instinct and be kind, they will appreciate it. Trust me, I am the perfect poorly person who tries to hide it but I am beginning to be known around here!
 

Posted at 03:26 PM    

Wed - March 1, 2006

TRANSPORT 


Hmm...what is the universe trying to tell me? 

WATCH OUT, THIS ARTICLE COULD MAKE YOUR EARS ACHE - SERIOUS MOAN FOLLOWS

I have just about managed to get around to the idea that if I want to participate in family activities and keep up with my boys, some transport may be required. We did check out the British Cross office and have a wheelchair on loan for a month. ( hmm step 1, look at it as a bike, nothing more). Then I went and registered with the shopmobility scheme thinking that would come in handy when I want to go into towns and find that my legs will not carry me around without severe exhaustion. That accomplished and being quite happy ( well of sorts...you get my drift) it appeared that my car made a terrible noise. Decided to wheel it to the garage who phoned me later in the day to say it needs serious repairs that are going to cost me well.....an arm and a leg. I will have to go ahead with the repairs and then maybe look at the mobility scheme to see if I can access a car that suits my needs better and is reliable to reduce the stress factors that are building up......breathe deeply, relax....the universe obviously feels that I am able to pay huge bills or.....wants me to have a more reliable mode of transport. This or better is my motto so will have to go with the flow.

As an aside, looking at the lighter side of life, I had a small visit to the garden centre when DH picked me up, with wheelchair, and he was in a sort of a fit of laughter, just like kids zooming around and having fun.

I am not sure how I feel tonight, exhausted from the drama, worried about the cost and stressed about the energy that is going to be needed to stay at a status quo.

Ah well, then there is always the knitting to pick up...... 

Posted at 06:40 PM    

Tue - February 28, 2006

Recycling art 


Wow, all kids are getting creative 

I guess because I am getting creative and spending time making things, the kids have caught on and their art work from school reflects this.


And then there is this cool thing


and finally my one foot finishes sock



One little tip on saving kids art.....take pictures and then later create a book for them with all their creative projects in.

Its been pancake day today and we have had great fun. The school put on a pancake race and the ladies from the WI provided pancakes for all the children. My energy is still low today and am taking great care. 

Posted at 06:42 PM    

Sun - February 26, 2006

THE DINNER PARTY 


How do you manage a dinner party with ME? 

What sort of planning needs to go into having a dinner party when you have no energy? Lots and plenty of notice and a desire to have a get together and not feel that you have to do everything yourself. I have always been seen as a rather organised woman, but with ME this is very frustrating and has to be taken back to the very basic steps necessary to achieve a goal.
The party went well, my boys and Dh all worked together as a team and it was such a success on the day that the guests even thought my DH did all the cooking ( for those of you who know him????I know.....). So how was it done:
give yourself 3 months and fix a date
plan to do the main course and 1 sweet
ask guests to bring salads etc
set up a buffet table and ask guests to serve themselves
mingle if you can
enjoy the fact that you have organised the party, are enjoying it and not doing everything.

Everyone enjoyed it, and so did I, but there is a payback, not the same day, but woke up today unable to leave bed until midday. I know it sounds as if I should not have had a party but that reminds me of that song....


Its my party and I cry if I want to.....

needs changing to....

Its my party and I rest if I want to......

My boys made their own pancakes today, they were not disappointed as for the last months they have been gradually getting more confident in doing this without me, under guidance so i feel dizzy yet smug that despite having ME I can and I do simple things that make me happy.Others enjoyed it too.

ME is disabling and can seriously damage your lifestyle but it is not life threathening....there is no need to be miserable....there is hope.
 

Posted at 03:05 PM    

Tue - February 21, 2006

Memories of fun days 


Yiha, the cowboys all together 



and then a lovely performance of the Lion King


back to reality....I am trying very hard. 

Posted at 02:20 PM    

Mon - February 20, 2006

Mad hat 


Ok, the escape from reality is over. 

What a shame, a bit of fun out of the dark winter days has been a refreshing experience. Disney Europe is a fantastic place to go when you are disabled. The people were so friendly and intent on me having a good time that the whole family was able to relax and go with the flow. OK, you might think that I may be a tad old to enjoy myself like that but from time to time, my inner child needs an outing. This was one of them. So what do you reckon to the hat I bought my DD?


 

Posted at 05:05 PM    

Fri - February 10, 2006

Break time 



It appears I need a break. I am not usually one to wallow in negativity so i won't only to say that it has continued to be a hard week. At times I have a silly sensation that I can do as I used to do and then when a bug hits my immune system, the kids get poorly, the temperature drops and we end the week with a family funeral.....I am in that place where it will be necessary to pick myself up, dust myself down and put one foot forward.

There, there, its not that bad. I have however not been able to indulge in knitting for 2 days but intend to make amends at that tonight. A nice roaring fire will help, as are plans to escape next week to a fun place. They have wheelchairs there so that need not stop me from taking part!

The birds are chirping away outside, spring must be around the corner. 

Posted at 04:02 PM    

Mon - February 6, 2006

BLEAK MIDWINTER 


Its that day 

The days are lengthening that I am sure of, but this has to be the worst day so far. It is grey, my energy levels are very low and I am keeping my head down and resting. I am knitting a sock in lilac cotton wth a small cable in in, a design by Nancy Bush from Interweave magazine. It was such a hard day i decided to go and get my hair cut, well some of it anyway.

My son tells me that this is statistically the day most people take off work....I do understand and do not doubt that...( he is trying to cheer me up by that comment I am sure). 

Posted at 06:51 PM    

Mon - January 30, 2006

5 mins of fame 


the pansy pincushion 

As there are no flowers so to speak on the outside of the house and inspired by Annie's quilting podcast, I decided to have another go at quilting. ME makes it really difficult to concentrate for long periods of time so before starting on yet another large project, I thought I would tackle making myself a small pincushion. ( has to be pink with some purple in it of course). The result is pleasing but gave me an immense headache, not the fact of making it but the concentration involved. I will have a go at a small quilt but will need to do it step by step. I got a mention on Annie's podcast which was a huge surprise. ( i am easily too excitable about surprises, sad life!)
 

Posted at 01:15 PM    

Sun - January 15, 2006

WASSAILING 


Cider , cold and company 

Don your wellies, wrap up well its wassailing time. In many orchards the trees are being wassailed to ensure that next year's harvest of apples produces a fantastic amount. Cider is still being made by small local producers. We sampled some yesterday ( very useful while you stand in the orchard and wonder why you have ventured out!) There was a giant bonfire providing some warmth and some light., The orchard was filled with oil lights dotted around the landscape and about 50 people gathered to sing traditional songs to the trees. A few unsuspecting moments when the farmer shot his gun in the air to ward of evil spirits. The party then walked to the village hall where after singing some more to let people in, we were served with hot soup and a ploughmans supper to the entertainment of some local singers. This is a good enough reason to live in the country...... I did not do not any of the barndancing but it was a joy to watch.
OOOOO AHRRRR 

Posted at 03:08 PM    

Thu - December 22, 2005

O tannenbaum 


The Christmas tree 

Homely, decorated by the children and spreading a lovely pine scent. Very little else matters, there are some presents under the tree. The colours of Christmas to me are red, green and silver and gold. I love the smell of cinnamon, cookies, hot chocolate, vanilla tea and like nothing more than simple things. I spent some of my childhood in Germany and I hope to bring a little of that into our home every year. Tomorrow, we will gather some berries and greenery from the woods to decorate the table. After that, who knows where it will take us..... 

Posted at 02:06 PM    

Wed - December 21, 2005

Home sweet home 


Cleaning frenzy 

I was hoping for a clean and tidy home before the family descends and my 5 year old Dyson has given up, maybe good timing for me to relax and give up on the tidy home thing. I love pictures of homesteads, and love the feeling of warmth and cosyness that spreads from them. The furniture has now been moved, the tree has its place and the children are screaming' can we decorate it now', to be told not yet, the lights need to go on first, they have been waiting 3 days since it came in so I fully understand the impatience.
I continue knitting my way through it, sleeve 1 almost done and will be starting the main body tomorrow......promise pix soon, just a tad busy with the tree at the moment. May you feel relaxed at the beginning of the 12 days........ 

Posted at 06:40 PM    

Tue - December 20, 2005

errata 


Just in case you wondered.... 

No, I do not have 7 children, just in case you thought that might have been my reason for being exhausted most of the time. it just so happened we had some children visiting, they seem to love it here, I wonder why? Must be the knitting mummy in the corner. We had a joke, one of them was leaving and saying he was leaving the big brother house.....no no, I said, its the Big Mother's House. The Christmas spirit is finally getting to me I guess.

Off to have a good hair day tomorrow! 

Posted at 10:15 PM    

The last rush...... 


Why do we need to rush so much about at this time of the year? What is it for?
If you are still rushing....take a deep breath, sit down, make tea and start knitting, keep breathing and
R E L A X >>>>>. 

I wonder why my energy levels are tested so much, Christmas Day falls on a Sunday and as such should not be any different cooking for the family as any sunday roast would. The bird is bigger I grant you, the trimmings more and more, but in essence it should be as relaxing a day and joyful as any Sunday. I am measuring my energy, I do rush about, I do wrap presents, I do panic slightly as to the amount of food we need and have in the house but DH promises me that he is not, I repeat not, going to another supermarket before next year. it feels wonderfully like hibernating. I wait, I relax, I knit and wait while the boys come back from their last day at school. It appears I now have 7 children in the house, a variety of leftover cakes, some discarded santa hats, lots of laughter and a rather docile dog who is wondering what that funny man shaking his head on the sideboard is singing about and why is everyone so excited. To show you how a dogs mind works, the dogs biscuits are in an old celebration tin and when i got the new celebration tin out with chocolates, I was crowded by 7 children, a very obedient dog sitting patiently waiting for her biscuit wondering why they had wrappers on. If dogs could talk.

Knitting for me, novel I grant you but this festive season I am attempting to knit an EZ specially measured sweater that should fit all my lovely curves. The sleeves will be the right length, the sweater the right width and it will fit beautifully. Thats what I visualise anyhow, what comes out of it, we shall see. I will keep knitting, it is in the round, seamless and done in lovely purple yarn i bought from 21st century in London. 

Posted at 04:58 PM    

Fri - December 16, 2005

merry singing in the choir 


Practice, practice and more practice 

It happens all over the country, choirs practice in cold churches to give people a rendition of the carol service next week. So spare a thought for those who do and do go and listen to the music even if you are not looking at it as a Christian festival. For me it means the beginning of the festive season which I will probably not finish with any sort of decent voice ( singing descants that is the really high notes in the last verses). Maybe that will be the quiet Christmas we hope for.
 

Posted at 08:06 PM    

Wed - December 14, 2005

Giddy list 


Things that make me giddy and excited 




1. has to be yarn.....?>?>?>?>?>
2. too much coffee and chocolate ( can just manage the smell now)
3. smell of cake just coming out of the oven
4. birthday cake, cards and candles ( the older you get the giddier it makes you and can be a serious fire risk!)
5. parcels coming through the post
6. walking more than 50 yrds
7. too much mulled wine
8. looking at how much Christmas is costing
9. the presents under the tree ( must simplify next year)
10. the energy of 3 boys!

Besides that I have found a shawl i had started in Colinette purple mohair so am making use of my time having a go at finishing that. I am waiting to be inspired by my stash!



 

Posted at 06:18 PM    

Tue - December 13, 2005

Sponsoring a child 


Birthday wish 

Although I am of a rather middle age now, and I am told what I lack in energy I make up in wisdom ( debatable) I decided last month to become a child sponsor. My work has always been centred around families and children and as I am no longer able to participate fully, hands on, I have been thinking how I can continue to work with the values I hold so dear. Sponsoring a child is one of them and I also support Unicef because I believe each child has individual rights. Today I received my first letter from the child I sponsor in Bangladesh. It may seem a little thing to do but being part of a global village means a lot to me. It makes me aware of the abundance we have in the way our family lives and how others live far away. I love getting letters and cards and really wondered how this would work out but my children are learning about life in a different part of the world at the same time and it makes them realise how lucky they are.
The letter had a tiny handprint on it because the child I sponsor is still sooooo very small.

“ A century that began with children having virtually no rights is ending with children having the most powerful legal instrument that not only recognizes but protects their human rights.” – Carol Bellamy, UNICEF Executive Director 

Posted at 02:11 PM    

Fri - December 9, 2005

Technology and helplines 


Little moan and groan coming up 

I am not as patient as I would like to be. the modem broke down ( again I hear you say) and yes, I had the pleasure of spending time again on the phone trying to sort it out. Phoned sales , got cut off, phoned sales again, spoke to nice man who eventually said, not his problem, he only deals with items up to 28 days after delivery. Put through to techinical support who says I need something else, will explain to sales and the man from sales starts with...so what do you want. I was not sure at that point whether my communication skills had died, I replied I thought the man from techinical support explained, yes he replied, but we do not have that item on the list. ( silent scream, frustration and inner child stamping feet). Starting again, I asked could he help me, no must put you through to technical support I am only in sales...........get cut off. Phone again and speak to nice lady who takes brunt of my pent up frustration, have to explain again but am pleased that although she seems to understand, she also seems to understand what I need, the suggests it is not their problem but need to get modem from internet supplier. have serious brainfog and wonder whether I have been too much cooped up in my home, what is the matter with my communication skills, what to do next. Try to stay calm but am really fed up by now,and ask her whether she can suggest a solution......she can......she does......she presses a button and ells me it may take 14 days to arrive. I silently gulp....try not to speak up too much in case I get cut off. She finishes the call by saying that the phone call may have been recorded and I say, I hope so. At least she was human to speak to, the initial triage system can be robotic and if you press the wrong button, who knows where you will end up.

Funny last things, I ring a man in Germany about the broken modem, and he says no problem we will send you a spare part, can you send us an email with your address? Actually no I need a modem for that and that is why I called you.

Am seriously thinking of getting a new brain wiring as it is obviously not working well. But hooray, the new modem has arrived and when the bit comes for the broken one we will have two and then we will have a back up system.....at least I hope so.

Will get back to knitting now.

Thanks for listening, at least I hope you understood what I said and you have not got cut off in the meantime.

I am grateful for technology but would like to meet humans again when I shop. I have no wish to become a robot.
 

Posted at 06:53 PM    

Mon - November 28, 2005

Unfinished business 


What does that mean exactly........ 

When one door closes.....I am feeling humble today.....I am feeling as if I have finished some unfinished feelings and unresolved conversations that took place a long time ago in the midst of turmoil. I am humbled because despite everything that seemed to go wrong at the time, a lot went right....I am humbled because despite personal agendas and extreme turmoil, people managed to grow in their lives and I am accepting that these moments happen and how powerful they can be. Out of tornados and earthquakes, great beauty can grow and to that I have been witness today. I am grateful for that insight and I do not regret what went on before.

DAILY QUOTE 
"The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity." 

~ Margaret D. Nadauld~ 

Posted at 01:46 PM    

Sun - November 27, 2005

Country blessings 


Imagine the first advent in a small church on the top of a hill. 

There is very little parking, snow from Friday still lingers on, you get greeted by bells ringing in the distance and when you walk up the little grass path and enter, you are given a candle, your songbook. When you take your place, the bench is freezing and you can literally see your breath as you exhale. Tis the bleak midwinter and yet, it has a magical quality to it that no centrally heated modern church can provide you with. The boys spent the last few minutes of daylight throwing the snow at eachother and marvelling at the story they had heard about the dragon who loved the world......
Not a fairytale but a real experience in the 21st century signalling the magic of the festive season ahead. back home, its a hot chocolate with marshmallows, forgetting the drippy noses, and warming toes by the glow of a wood fire. I love the simplicity of this way of life. 

Posted at 04:47 PM    

Tue - November 22, 2005

Checkov Trio 


Day out to listen to spinechilling music 

A lovely invitation arrived last week to see whether I would like to go to a lunchtime concert , transport from door to door. Thought I would live dangerously and give it a go, can you go wrong with other people in your community? I was collected, lunch was en route by various contributions of sandwiches and chatter and we arrived in plenty of time. The music was devine, the trio well accomplished solo virtuosos as well as having a synchronicity which maybe 3 sisters can make happen. I say it was spinechilling in a nice way as the energy of the instruments vibrated along the way. I am experimenting with adding a social life to my routine, it worked well today because the car was comfortable and I could have a snooze on the way back.

DAILY QUOTE

"Sing Your Own Song"

"Since you are like no other being ever created since the beginning of time, you are incomparable."

-- Brenda Ueland  

Posted at 07:05 PM    

Mon - November 21, 2005

Two of my favourites 


Winter has arrived 

I loved the togetherness in this picture of one boy and his cat.When it gets colder, they all gather around the fire and as DS3 was sitting on the chair usually occupied by the cat, they simply had to share.  

Posted at 06:35 PM    

Fri - November 18, 2005

ME clinic 


Day out 

have been out today to the new NHS ME clinic. Lovely new building with wonderful layout so could be dropped off at the door. Doors opened when you approached and lots of lovely long and wide corridors. My interview lasted 1 hour in which the fire alarm went off which was extremely painful to my ears but the clinician assured me that if the building had been on fire she would not have left me to burn to a crisp. I was relieved at that. Have come home with an activity diary to complete to establish my 'baseline'. Was too tired after that to do too much but have managed to start sleeves for YLJA jacket. Promise a pixie tomorrow but must put my feet up near the fire as the temperature is dropping fast.

DAILY QUOTE

Healing requires taking action, it is not a passive event.
Carolyn Myss 

Posted at 07:45 PM    

Thu - November 17, 2005

Fly, fly, fly 


Love the song and the lyrics 

This song is just the way I feel today and I am very grateful to my friends for pointing me in its direction. Here are the words for you to see and if you want to listen to the tune, listen here It is by Adrina Thorpe.
 
fly fly fly 
I’m in a blue petal sky of roses, daisies...spinning inside my mind. and as I float through the mist, the world below me seems so far behind. like I can fly fly fly. nothing seems to matter, now that you’re here beside me. fly fly fly. When I’m here with you I feel alive. and all the cars swirling by in motion seem like they could be paralyzed. and the light inside me feels so bright, it’s hard for me to deny. like I can fly fly fly. nothing seems to matter, now that you’re here beside me.fly fly fly. when I’m here with you I feel alive. 

now that I’ve settled into safeness, 
slowly, surely, unafraid. 
I want to soak in your love till it seeps through my bones. 
I want to rest in your touch, 
pause in your eyes, realize that life is 
beautiful when you’re here and I feel so open.

fly fly fly. nothing seems to matter. you’re here beside me.fly fly fly. when I’m here with you I feel alive. 
 
Tomorrow, when I am back in the land of the needles, I will show you the fantastic Lopi jacket that I am knitting with size 12 mm needles, it is a bit hard to hold but lovely and warm and I might just make myself one but in purple though. 
 

 

Posted at 12:23 PM    

Thu - November 10, 2005

TLC Day 


Yesterday was a bit taxing 

So today, I am spending a day with myself. I managed to gently bless my home this morning ( which is an expression to do some gentle cleaning) and sat down to catch up on some paperwork. Postie called a couple of times with my Christmas shopping. Lunch was on my own listening to some music from Libera, a boys choir of heavenly voices, and after my afternoon rest, I have lit the fire and am sitting down with my feet up. Days like these are rare and I must treasure them, before ME they would have been impossible and now they are required from time to time.
Will not be posting for a few days, am off on some repairing work.  

Posted at 03:42 PM    

Mon - November 7, 2005

A message of thanks 


prayer shawls 

It is humbling to hear that one of the ladies I gave a shawl to, can be found wearing it around her shoulders for the majority of the time while she spends time travelling through an illness. I resonate not only with a feeling that someone cared enough to make a shawl, as a person recovering from an illness, but also am humbled because by doing a very small act of kindness I can get feedback that it makes a real difference in the life of one person. I am grateful for that opportunity. 

Posted at 02:18 PM    

Tue - November 1, 2005

a very special meal 


Little people delight in a simple meal 

What a surprise today. Little son laid the table with candles, kitchen roll napkins, beautiful layout, soft light so we could all eat spaghetti bolognaise together. He managed to put some sparkle in our humble meal and make it a delightful experience on an autumn day. Simple things can create such happiness.

DAILY QUOTE 
Things should be made as simple as possible, but not any simpler. 
Albert Einstein 

Posted at 07:24 PM    

Mon - October 31, 2005

spooky 


halloween night, take cover 

Scary boys have made thes pumpkins and carved them for the world to see, hard work went into this so for the treat ( no trick) they will get treated out to a grown up meal in the pub. So we will be off to scare the folk in there a bit by just arriving as a family, that should be spooky enough. 

Posted at 05:58 PM    

Sun - October 30, 2005

halloween measures 


How does your pumpkin grow? 

Half term would not be right at this time of the year without celebrating the halloween pumpkin harvest. We had 5 this year in various sizes. You never know whether they will actually grow, how big and what form they will take.
The boys have spent the afternoon creating their monsters and making candles fit the inside so tomorrow when it gets dark, they will be able to display them and frighten everyone in the area. One nice thought is that the birds and animals will be able to peck at them at will afterwards so it is not wasted.
At half term I do not really het that much chance to knit but am doing another Lizzie, and there is very little I can say about that!!!!
 

Posted at 04:15 PM    

Tue - October 25, 2005

PIctures back 


IT consultant solves problems 

I am very lucky, I have one on hand for the majority of the day and he is really good at solving my major techno headaches. What is even weirder is that he actually enjoys solving these little mysteries just like we knitters would talk about yarn, he enthuses about computers, gigabytes and software. I had a bit of a conversation with him where he would throw me technobabble and I would respond in stitching language, and we both ended up in laughter. I suppose it went to show us both how a boring it can be to eachother, when you are very enthused in whatever you are in to. I need him more unfortunately than he needs socks and sweaters so I am on the losing end I think. Half term again.
I am knitting a scarf in mohair with a small scallop pattern, photos tomorrow.
Need a rest now. 

Posted at 08:31 PM    

Wed - October 19, 2005

Being in a pickle 


Calming down already 

No knitting today, just frustration with the internet. A nice engineer came around to tell me after testing the lines that all was fine and that the problem was back in our court. I have solved it though but am unsure for how long. All this took a lot of energy.....grrrr and frustration but in the big scheme of things it means very little.

DAILY QUOTE

"You Are Bigger Than You think"
"He who would be serene and pure needs but one thing, detachment."

Meister Eckhart  

Posted at 05:01 PM    

Tue - October 18, 2005

quick posting 


back from escaping and into another internet black hole 

That is obviously what happens when you leave home to escape to the knitting and stitching show. There have been no postings, not only because I was exhausted but also because I have intermittent connection to the internet. Endless conversations with Bombai did a lot to test an already tested physique but tomorrow I will have the pleasure of an engineer's visit by which time it will probably be working fine.
What did I think of the show at Ally Pally? lots to see, lots I could have spent. I loved the exhibits of the students and a japanese exhibition where I was unable to take pictures. It seemed a bit odd, because my recollection of japanese tourists is that they always take pictures....so was it maybe they thought I would copy the samourai outfit? There were plenty of places to sit, not always obvious and I did buy some 21st century yarn which is a lovely handdyed yarn for a project in mind.
The trip was a pilgrimage to friendship I have to say, my trusted friend and I laughed when we got back way past the witching hour, having left at the crack of dawn, to realise that we had found a cure for ME......good friends, 18 hours on a coach and lots of laughter. If only! I was fine the next day but on Monday I paid for my extravagance. Well, I am worth it I thought, but 18 hours on a coach followed by a couple of days bedrest. Escaping from time to time is fun.
While resting i read an article in the paper which amused me. Does my derriere look big in this? I am naturally endowed with a curvy behind and having spent lots of teenage years as the odd one out,I now realise that it seems my time has come, women are actually buying padded underwear to have a bigger derriere. I knew my time would come, only now I really don't care as much about it as I did then. I wonder whether these could be knitted....now there is a crazy design idea! No don't go there!!!!!

No quote because it seems to silly to follow the above with some serious quote. Am knitting something designed by Jane Ellison. Computer permitting, you might learn more about that some other time. I think I need more sleep, crazy escape still has effects on tired body and brain, as you can tell from above. 

Posted at 08:14 PM    

Mon - October 10, 2005

Has it really been a week already 


What am i up to that prevents me from writing on the blog? 

It is not what I am up to, rather that my computer has been hijacked by It Consultant who is experimenting with it to talk to his friends while he is here and they are there. I am very pleased that he is able to increase his knowledge and his peer group, and I remain in the background.......so now at about his bedtime I get a chance to have a go...yeah!
The pumpkins are on the bench sunbathing in readiness for the end of the month. October beckons me in the garden to tidy up, harvest some more and generally enjoy the last of the sunshine.
Inside I knit cushions currently and work on performing little miracles of kindness but more about that some other time.
Despite what has happened since having a little virus, I am happy with my life, every day is a gift and I live according to my values.......most of all, I have plenty of time to knit.
What else could be more fulfilling I wonder. 

Posted at 08:22 PM    

Wed - September 28, 2005

what was your day like? 


A reflecting practice 

I woke up today with a fresh mind which is unusual. I wanted to stay in the moment and focussed on what was happening around me and...make changes. The chickens are looking sorry this morning, some have literally a couple of feathers hanging on in the tail but you can see the new feathers growing...and surprisingly they do not feel like laying many eggs ( prioritising do they do that?) This was followed by the return of the cats and dog who sat in front of the aga. I have learnt this is a sure sign that bad weather is on the way so adjust plans accordingly. Then I enjoyed a visit from some friends I had not seen for a long time which was followed by a lounge make over. That means it has been cleaned and furniture changed in autumn mode. Instead of being focussed on the window for sunshine, my chair is facing the woodburner dreaming of log fires and toasty toes. I am easily pleased and recognise that simple pleasures are easy to obtain.

Am knitting the back of Lizzie 3 now and should be able to post picture tomorrow. As I am past no Tv night, must close before my computer gets confiscated. 

Posted at 07:23 PM    

Mon - September 26, 2005

Gifts galore 


Someone left me a bag of apples 

I simply am overwhelmed by the sheer generosity of people lately( you know who you are!) and today someone left me a bag of apples. I have no idea who it was so thank you I turned it into Aunt Cecile's apple pudding which was fab and much loved tonight. I also last April won this timeshare things which I was most dubious about ( one would be) but having been to visit the nearest site and enjoyed a free lunch ( there is of course no such thing) I have come home with a bottle of champagne and reassured that actually yes I have won a weeks holiday per year somewhere for life ( well until 2065, so thats being very optimistic that by that time I shall want a holiday!) There was a catch of course, we did have to sit through an explanation of our prize in which both DS and I agreed that we could a) have done this better, b) we did not learn anything we did not know and c) we recognised the sales techniques and tricks, but having said that, it does not change anything to the fact that we have a week's holiday for life ( may be limited as to when it is, but who cares, a prize is a prize!) So now, if I could show you a way.............

The rest of today has been spent observing the weather changes. Why? It is just so obvious that the animals around the place know exactly that it is autumn and winter is on its way. The plants too exhibit changes. I notice and put on a sweater. What I noticed was a lot of feathers and scrawny looking chickens, leaves falling from the trees, courgettes packing up because the temperature is down and spiders and daddy longlegs on some sort of mission to annoy Mrs Mop in this house.

Another thing which eventually occurred after our ' free lunch' was that we do not really need many holidays because we love where we live. All together now.....AHHHHHH!

DAILY QUOTE
 
Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful. 
Buddha 

Posted at 09:30 PM    

Wed - September 21, 2005

Tomorrow we start again 


Off day today 

couple of errands and am exhausted. Still doing mittens and rebelling against making nasty rabbits. One of those days you just want to go back to slumberland. I obviously have overdone it a bit lately and need to replenish my energy bank account. Tomorrow we start again with a fresh day. 

Posted at 06:37 PM    

Thu - September 15, 2005

maths 



DS2 is trying to do his homework but it is last minute thing. Love him to bits though, he makes me laugh trying to do his homework on a wobbly threelegged table, he is trying to concentrate while patting the dog, holding the table steady and having the TV on......should we show him an easier way?He has to hand it in tomorrow, it is his bedtime and he has just remembered. He did start earlier but was watching TV at the same time and any distraction however small puts him of the track. Add to that that he is trying to do this on a wobbly threelegged table on the floor and you get the picture. What way to tackle this first. Step 1, switch off TV which was accepted, step 2, get DS 1 to help him with some pointers. Step 3, congratulate when finished homework and then.....told him he would be catching up on sleep tomorrow.I know I am probably mean but if he does not get slightly organised he will get lost literally. Tough love! Then he noticed that a book had got squashed in his bag and DS1 decided to flatten it and show him that he had a bigger pocket in his bag. We suddenly understood the teacher's frustrations.

DAILY QUOTE
 
Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands. 
Anne Frank 

Posted at 09:31 PM    

Tue - September 13, 2005

small items and harvesting more 



I am knitting mittens, scarves and cushions at the moment, little things that give a quick finish. Soon I will know the pattern by heart.
The garden is still overflowing and tomorrow, I am making apple and blackberry jam...well having a start at it, it usually takes 2 days to do.
I have noticed that the weather is turning, the swallows have left and spiders are coming in...autumn is around the corner, and if they get their house in order for the cold weather, so must I.

DAILY QUOTE
 
The art of progress is to preserve order amid change and to preserve change amid order. 
Alfred North Whitehead 

Posted at 07:40 PM    

Wed - September 7, 2005

Love flylady 


How do you get organised in your home 

At times I have been really overwhelmed when the brainfog has set in, the house littered with clutter and very little energy to do too much about it. Then my DD sent me a link to flylady. Initially it was a bit too much to get all the emails saying do this, do that but I liked the idea of doing 10 mins at a time which fitted in with my pacing. Surprisingly a long time after, it is beginning to work and make sense...the house is beginning to be in some sort of shape....yesterday for instance, the task was to look at all the plastic containers you have in the kitchen, toss out the ones that have no lids and do not fit or have never been used. Another day in the kitchen was to sort out the drawer that holds your clingfilm etc and tidy that. Little things that actually in the long run make a huge difference and take only 5 mins. You do ofcourse not have to do any of it....optional..... I do enjoy the satisfaction of things done in 15 mins at a time.......Sad I know......


DAILY QUOTE

"Open To Awareness"

"Mindfulness means moment-to-moment, non-judgmental awareness. It is cultivated by refining our capacity to pay attention, intentionally, in the present moment, and then sustaining that attention over time as best we can. In the process, we become more in touch with our life as it is unfolding."

-- Myla & Jon Kabat-Zinn  

Posted at 09:19 AM    

Fri - September 2, 2005

Tracing back my steps 


Too many demands on my energy at the moment 

I feel sort of jetlagged and a bit overwhelmed by what needs doing. I do not have my energy bank sorted correctly at the moment but that is probably because I spent a week being pampered which I enjoyed very much and am now back to reality or sort of reality. There is the usual rush to get things sorted before school starts and unfortunately no reserve in energy bank. Only one thing to do, rest, duvet day with book and tea. It is at days like that that podcasts come into their own as well as talking books. Hope to be back on form soon. I was dreaming that I was better and the reality is that I am not really better just more able to cope with my limitations. The underlying weakness in the muscles and bones is still there and demands a bit more attention today. I have learnt a lot being wheeled about in a wheelchair....there were funny moments and I can still summon up the sense of humour. No energy for knitting ----a bit dire I would say, but maybe thats a good thing too. 

Posted at 08:51 PM    

Tue - August 30, 2005

Great day and bartering 


What you give out you receive 

Full or suprises today. An invite for the boys to go to the farm today which meant a frantic search for wellie boots, change of clothes while i prepared a little box full of goodies from the polytunnel. After 12 days away it is a bit like tomatoe heaven, far too many of them. Add to that some eggs, cucumber and lovely sienna biscuits and off we went. Great day where the kids roamed, adults talked over lunch. Coming home our neighbour left some wine and blackberry mousse and we came home with some lettuces. Thats sort of dinner sorted.
This really works for me, I thank always for what I receive, i give when I can freely and somehow, life gives us many surprises. We laughed a lot too........a must!

DAILY QUOTE

Our perfect companions never have less than four feet.
Colette 

Posted at 07:58 PM    

Mon - August 29, 2005

Tuscany inspirations 


The light was great and the art was to die for 

I have had the opportunity to go to the Uffizi in Florence, look at Botticelli and a lot of really nice paintings. There were frescoes to see in abbeys and art everywhere. There was an opportunity to draw and paint ( no good at that but there were little kids that did better) but in all it was a very inspirational trip. The colours were fab, the landscape so ancient and I did get an understanding that for the last thousands of years, people have lived like they do there. People spotting was fab too, and learning a little italian was great too. Would have done a lot more if my energies were more, but we tried to do as much as we could. I did travel using wheelchairs and although initially not keen, it was useful. My driver got the hang of it and I did not end up face in the pavement too many times.
You learn!
 

Posted at 08:24 PM    

back from hols 


Will write soon 

Did not manage to work out the technology to moblog to the blog but when we have caught up with the washing.....will post. In between waiting for things to finish I am doing some more on the holiday socks. 

Posted at 01:57 PM    

Tue - August 16, 2005

Taking a break 


Sock and I are off to see the world 

Well part of it anyhow, see you soon! 

Posted at 08:32 AM    

Sun - August 7, 2005

new shawl request 


Its taking a life of its own 

I had hoped to finish off my projects before a long vacation and today was astonished to get a request for a shawl. I say astonished because it all happened via a grapevine ( rampant as it appears to be). That makes 5 to do but as I do them on a request basis there is actually not a deadline. I cannot work with deadlines too much. DH has moved my bench from the garden and created a patio area next to the back door which catches the evening sun but apart from that is in the shade during the day. A perfect place to sit and knit. I have no projects to start at the moment as I am trying to tie loose ends on WIPs. It has simply been a gorgeous day.... 

Posted at 09:04 PM    

Fri - August 5, 2005

new toy 


Need lessons to learn how to us a phone 

According to DS1 I have come out of the stone age of mobiles and have arrived in the 21st century. Not sure how it happened, it was so quick....one minute I was in the stone age and then......voila apparently transported into the now. Do I understand the phone, not likely.....not yet anyway.( probably due to timelag in brain chemistry) I have been promised phone lessons.......will I be able to take it all in though. Why did I change from stone age anyway? ideally so I could moblog but actually that is a bit further along in my phone lesson. For the moment, I am concentrating on getting used to the buttons, the screen and the ringtone. Being hypersensitive to sound and sight for the moment means that some of these hyper tunes go right to my head literally and cause pain so I have asked for gentle tones.....gentle sounds.......but then again that probably belongs in the stone age with silence. I wonder whether there is hope.......


DAILY QUOTE 
When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.
Ernest Hemmingway 

Posted at 07:44 PM    

Thu - August 4, 2005

Watchet knits blog 



Watchet as a town is misunderstood I fear and when you get to know some of the people there you get to know what a lovely community it is. Well, they have sort of accepted me amongst them, which I am quite happy about. You see, I live outside!

Watchet knits the blog has been launched. Brainchild of motherofallneedles . What is Watchetknits, ehhhh it does exactly what is says on the blog mate! ( pun on advert for paint- its says exactly what it does on the tin) Watchet ( town) knits = knitters in Watchet get together every now and then to knit and feed an ever growing addiction to yarn and needles for the greater good. Anyone wishing to learn to knit or anyone wishing to get addicted as we do, come on down!

DAILY QUOTE 
At the risk of sounding ridiculous, let me say that the true revolutionary is guided by feelings of love.
Ernesto Che Chevara 

Posted at 06:52 PM    

Sat - July 30, 2005

Oh no , no knitting how horrible! 


Children enter adolescence and come up with suggestions for punishments! 

There is a rule in our house that wednesdays is no electronics night. In general it does not go down very well but the children choose a game to play, play cards or read a book. Last night however, as there was no online connection, a little voice spoke up at dinner saying'I think that rule is not fair, because you don't use any. I think when we have no electronics, you should have a no knitting night' Riot, how should I respond to that one. Firstly I am pleased he thought about things, I agree that it seems a little unfair from his perspective and so, I reluctantly agreed. No knitting on Wednesday. Now does that mean no knitting or would I get away with crochet? Guess not...........my childcare training says I should model good behaviour so better not react to much in an adolescent way otherwise they will end up modelling that. Being a parent requires constant vigilance!

Very proud of the communications going on in this household, very democratic! 

Posted at 05:28 PM    

Tue - July 26, 2005

Shopping with boys 


help! 

Today is the day, have decided that I need to do the school shopping early as I do not wish to repeat the ebay experience of last year and when it is done I shall be able to relax. However, when your mobility is not that great and you shop with 1 man and 3 boys, do you think it will be enjoyable? In general my boys do not like a shopping experience. I could go and hire a little scooter from the mobility place but as I have not yet had driving lessons in that it could prove too stresful or embarrassing. Will let you know. 

Posted at 09:37 AM    

Fri - July 22, 2005

Blissfully simple after all 



It arrived, I plugged it in and hey presto, it worked. I love it when a plan comes together. Will catch up with all of you soon.
Have been doing well on the knitting front in the meantime...... 

Posted at 04:16 PM    

Thu - July 21, 2005

Reflections 


Noticing and capturing photos of the moment 

While away on my relaxing weekend, I spotted this view and got very nearly splashed because the fountain in the background provided a spray which moved towards me. I nevertheless wanted to capture this moment because to me it signified a moment of reflection. Hope you share that.  

Posted at 07:01 PM    

Wed - July 20, 2005

Frustration time continues 


Wonderful technology 

Communication is still an issue and my modem seems to go on and off which reflects my energy levels. Good thing about this is that DD came down in an attempt to sort out technological mess and...succeeded only for DS 1 to try and remove a knot in the cable for it to go off again. Mix with that end of term emotions and tired children and you have a recipe for family bliss! Happy holidays coming up.

Result is another few phonecalls, should get a replacement modem and then....hopefully we will be talking again instead of monologue off line. 

Posted at 07:02 PM    

Tue - July 12, 2005

living the simple life Australian way 


Could this be an inspiration? 

An Australian couple decided to live for 6 months off their land, without spending very much and staying away from the supermarkets.
Story can be read here .

I wonder, should we give that a go and how would we do here in the UK? 

Posted at 04:41 PM    

Mon - July 11, 2005

Sick or being sick and tired! 


I must be at the forefront of some step in the right direction. 

I trained as a Journey Therapist some years ago and one of the fundamental threads that flow through my thinking is that in each of us is a shining diamond which when faced with light can reflect love and light towards the world. What happens in reality is that we spend all our lives covering our diamond until one day we have a wake up call and begin to peel off layer by layer until the shining diamond is just that, a shining diamond.

Last weeks events in London serve as a reminder that life is precious, that we cannot take anything for granted and somehow urges me on to tell you all to find that diamond within as this light and love are needed, it has always been needed.

What I realised was that having shed 20lbs so far and worked on eliminating layers in my life, that it is time to shine my diamond into the world. We all can do that. I have realised that even if I have ME/CFS it does not fundamentally change who I am on the inside, it has however changed perceptions of people who look from the outside in.

I am not helpless, I can make changes, I can knit and give my creations away filled with love. The shawlministry shows this principle well. I can make little movements out there, I can write, I can listen and above all I can use my imagination and visualise a different world. Last weeks technological frustrations have given me an insight into the fact that sometimes things arrive in your life that you can really do without at that time, that communications go array and without knowing why and what it is about, we end up in a different thinking and living space.

That's where I am today, sick and tired of being sick and tired........No guarantee that that is going to change exactly what is going on on the inside of my body, but a positive mindset and utter belief that I will overcome this helps.
 

Posted at 01:47 PM    

Fri - July 8, 2005

Quick hello as I might be offline again 


What is it with this equipment 

Well, so far have had to enlist some more help, it has indirectly cost me cake and some knitting project but I would rather do that than do technobabble. It has however not been that good a day, omens all around, one dead chicken, one dog eating cheesecake ( meant for DD) and then off line again. What did i do to upset vibes? Any ideas?

No daily quote today. If i am not writing tomorrow, prayers might help, you never know.
 

Posted at 10:18 PM    

Thu - July 7, 2005

London 


Little did i know when I posted my quote. 

Tumultuous changes and London is affected by bomb blasts. People have died and have been injured. I am far removed from that and yet when something so horrendous happens, I want to believe that it opens up channels for new ways of being and seeing things. The past is just that, today is what matters and what affects London also has a ripple effect on others although we may not be close by. It is my sense that days like this do not devide but unite people. I always have admired the British people for their sense of belonging when crisis pulls them together. Today is no exception. there is very little I can do but reflect ,pray and be present. 

Posted at 03:34 PM    

Wed - July 6, 2005

Connected.... 


What can you do when you are off the web? 

Seems quite dinausaur age when you get off the web, sort of out of the gossip, back to look at your reality. The phone has been used more ( ancient mode of communication) as well as just plain talking and visiting. Was actually quite refreshing. Am really grateful to little It consultant for dealing with unhelpful helplines and not sure how he worked magic but the little lights are working and I am happy. Sad person really!
In the meantime I have caught up with my Noro jacket and knitting mittens and scarves ( why you ask?) you might well, but then has the weather not changed to reflect that?
Will talk more tomorrow.
DAILY QUOTE 
Love the moment. Flowers grow out of dark moments. Therefore, each moment is vital. It affects the whole. Life is a succession of such moments and to live each, is to succeed 
Corita kent 

Posted at 09:54 PM    

Fri - July 1, 2005

The cyber unknown zone 


I am in it! 

Frustration is mounting high and I need more lying down. My brain is freezing and fogging over with all the technobabble I am trying to understand. It seemed so simple, upgrade some computer ware, everything should go smoothly. No really I have now spent most of the day waiting for some piece of machinery and having installed that, it still does not work. Then after another call to some help centre ( they must by now know that I am trying hard!), I am told it is the wrong type of kit and I need another sort of item to solve it. This will take 3 days to get here.....where am I going......spending spending spending and getting nowhere. Then on instruction of manufacturer need to contact internet provider but get cut off as they have communication problems and their lines are bad. I say the whole communication system went wrong. Did I start this? GRRRRR Am taking deep breaths, relaxation techniques to try and stay calm. Feel so inadequate to deal with such stress..... 

Posted at 03:34 PM    

Thu - June 30, 2005

Technology ! 


Am offline 

Not the thunderstorm but a misguided confidence that I would be able to upgrade some software on my computer and that everything would continue to work as it did before. Of course not! Even the little IT consultant can only work logically with what has happened and work out that there is a link missing but when broadband provider ( who do not support mac users) say its the manufacturers problem and you go through the multiple choice options to speak to the other continent...we were getting nowhere fast. Result is that we need more kit, 24 more hours and hopefully we will be able to reconnect with the world. Nothing for it but to go and get my hair cut, hibernate and get back to knitting to calm the nerves! 

Posted at 12:16 PM    

Wed - June 29, 2005

Going going gone 


May be tedious to those who are not dieting! 

I am chuffed simply because I have lost over a stone in weight now and it has never been easier. Cutting out yeast, sugar, dairy out of your diet may sound horrendous but actually after 2 weeks of denial and grumbling I got into a routine. Still hard to say no to puddings but I am making healthier choices. Avocados are my best friend and the alkaline diet does work wonders. I am also drinking 3 litres of water and supergreens which stop me from feeling at all hungry. Energy levels are mildly better but I not sure whether that is due to supergreens or loss of weight or both. Anyway it works for me and thats what is important right now. ~plus the fact that I can fit into those medium sized trousers ( OK can still not sit down in them but they fit!) 

Posted at 08:52 AM    

Thunder, lightning....... 


Family gathers..... 

Nothing to add to a mysterious atmosphere than thunder and lightning, the lights going out on and off and the bang of the thunder roaring around the quarry. We all tidied up between the bouts of light and dark and sorted out the emergency plan. What could that be.....take camping light from cabin ( which meant DS1 had to go out in the rain in shorts and come back soaking), put light in kitchen, switch eveything off and gather around. No electric can be fun. we sat around, with dog and cat ( one left out there!) and talked about topics such as electricity, politics, environment, ghosts, freezers, etc. Quite enjoyed the evening and did not have the energy to go out and see whether the chickens were floating in the top field. They would not as they are in an ark, but the field used to have a pond until we filled it and now we know why!
The power of nature can be awsome and in moment like that, I am glad that a thunder occassionally can bring us together and notice that the earth and the environment we live in are living things and not to be taken for granted.

DAILY QUOTE

We don't accomplish anything in this world alone ... and whatever happens is the result of the whole tapestry of one's life and all the weavings of individual threads from one to another that creates something.
Sandra Day O'Connor
 

Posted at 08:45 AM    

Thu - June 23, 2005

What happened to the banana cake? 


You might well ask  

I thought I would make a lovely cake for once because I have been on a no sugar diet so the kids could come out of wiithdrawal ( as well as using the 4 bananas that were changing colour!). It smelled heavenly in the house, lovely banana fug which is meant to be my bit of excitement as I was not going to eat any.......It looked perfect and was standing on the table cooling off when I last saw it.
The children never stood a chance...it appears that another being in the house was more desperate than most.....I came back to find half a cake on the floor no wrapper left......and a dog which gave me the sad puppy look......it did not work this time...I was very cross. I am sure it was not the bananas that attracted her but the wrapper, she loves fairy cakes wrappers! Anyway, told the children they could not have their cake as it had been eaten, and to feel free to give the dog a ...LOOK!. The dog perfected the art of sad puppy look and walked of licking lips. Who says dogs do not understand?

Note to self ...I must remember to hide the cake on top of the kitchen units not to save being tempted but just to save the cake.
 

Posted at 06:35 PM    

Fri - June 17, 2005

Noticing 


The art of noticing in your life 

I have had a most wonderful week with my folks and I have spent a lot of time listening and talking in that order and I have practiced the art of noticing. I noticed how my children show their affection to their elders, how little things like making hot chocolate now please my folks as where I thought there expectations were a lot different. I have noticed how a simple and quiet life can bring contentment. I noticed the care and joy I have in preparing a simple home made soup which everyone enjoys. I have noticed the scents of flowers in the garden, subtle changes in temperature, the growth that is happening around me in the garden after a rainy day. I have simply stood still and starting noticing.....a lot goes on.

I never noticed the little things before that make such a difference. Well of course I knew they were being done but because they are done so quietly, so undemandingly you really have not got a clue it is going on and.....you take it for granted.

For instance, there are flowers in churches, teas at sports matches and small gatherings, books being lent to elderly people, places cleaned and you really do never see people do these things. They are done with care, simplicity, joy and commitment and having taken them for granted for many years I feel an overwhelming need to say thank you. So thank you to the person who sorts out my choir robe every week.

So next week, why not start noticing the little things other people do for you and be grateful they do them and ask yourself what little things you are contributing to your family, friends, community etc. You might just notice how much you receive and how much you give .......maybe you also notice little things you could do that would make a difference...its not always about money. You could read with a child, visit someone in hospital , ring a friend you have not spoken to, give your cat a brush, spend time with your elders, whatever little thing you can do will make a huge difference to others. I am still knitting socks, sometimes I wonder why but I know, no one need have cold feet around here when the temperature drops....it is but a small thing.

You could also start a small gratitude journal and note down every day 3 things you are grateful for and 3 little things you have done for others. It can help towards a feeling of contentment and contribution.

DAILY QUOTE

Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality.
Alfred Painter 

Posted at 10:42 AM    

Wed - June 8, 2005

Badger patrol 


What do you do when you find one near your home where you know it should not be? 

So what exactly do you do when you find a badger. Never a dull moment at berry cottage. Today we went out for the morning to return to find a note from the neighbour saying : there is a dead badger in your lean to. Problem was, it was breathing so what do you do "

1. Do not touch badger( they are nocturnal and bite ).
2. Assess if the animal is alive
3. If alive, is it injured and where
4. Do not ring the vet they do not deal with badgers.
5. Ring RSPCA ( who will ask you above questions) - if alive and happy, leave and look after 24 hours if it has left.
6. If injured, they will give you another number to call which puts you in touch with call centre.
7 Go through many multiple choice questions ( is it a bird, it the animal dead, alive injured)
8. Speak to real person who will ask questions again.
9. person will log your call and then get someone from your local RSPCA to call you.
10. refer to 5, and they then come out and take a look.

It appeared that the badger was young and had been injured, a broken leg, was very grumpy from being woken up ( a bit like me at times but 100x more hissing and growling). Not sure whether they can rescue them but it was safer for him to be looked after.

Not sure what it means, toads and badgers in my life, but I was very happy the junk left in there had provided him/her with some comfort during the night.

Afterwards, disinfect area and congratulate yourself on dealing with wildlife emergency and wildlife patrol. Add this to list of skills achieved.

DAILY QUOTE

"Be, Do And Have"

"Often people attempt to live their lives backwards: they try to have more things, or more money, in order to do more of what they want so they will be happier. The way it actually works is the reverse. You must first be who you really are, then do what you love to do, in order to have what you want."

-- Margaret Young 

Posted at 09:08 PM    

Tue - June 7, 2005

Bizarre day- be happy- dont' worry 


Sometimes you just get knocked sideways by something.... 

I am a very positive person and like to live in the moment. Sometimes something happens that knocks me sideways and today it arrived in a letter. I thought I was doing well...........
I have been listening to the new Cd by Deva Premal, dakshina which is lovely to listen to and even my tired body wanted to sing. Yesterday I watched Spiritual shopper and discovered sufi dancing, maybe that would be a gentle way to move to music. Today has been spent on my own playing music, musing in the garden and answering strange phonecalls. I have however decided that no matter what, the following quote should be the order of the day.

DAILY QUOTE

I promise to undertake the fine and noble duty of BEING HAPPY to the very best of my abilities today and everyday and will pass this quote, and message, on to one and all 

Posted at 08:10 PM    

Sun - June 5, 2005

Rainy day bliss 


Wet Sundays where we can enjoy the true comforts of home. 

The world seems greener now that the rain has fallen, even the pheasant is hiding in a tree wondering what has happened to the sunny weather. Yesterday I found a new friend in my polytunnel, just shows the slug problem is taken care of......toadie, red and tiny was hiding under the black tray in there and just peeping out when I moved some trays. I do not mind toadie as he is welcome to all the slugs he can find. Nature has a way of balancing out ( will that work on me too I wonder?!)

Potatoes are nearly ready to eat, glimpsed some yesterday so next week the harvest starts. I just love going out there and picking what we need for a meal and then just dishing it up. ~that way we minimalise loss of minerals etc.

I love being at home these days, I have sort of tuned in with nature and the seasons around me. Heard a coockoo yesterday in the garden and the little bluetits are beginning to fly away. I know that last one because the cat caught one that was not that agile in flying and we managed to scoop it up and put it back in the nesting box. I am surrounded by rainy day bliss. I will keep dirnking the stuff that is meant to energise me and hope it does the same as rain does to the greenery outside, I am hopeful anyway.

DAILY QUOTE

Since we cannot change reality, let us change the eyes which see reality.
Nikos Kazantzakis. 

Posted at 08:41 PM    

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