Miss Morgana Black's Hogwarts Adventures

I see it's time....

2009-05-05T14:46:00.000-07:00

For a new post. HSKS is now done. Yay! I cast on for HSS a few days ago. After this is done, I will not be doing a swap that requires a handmade item for a while. lol Too many deadlines and if you muck up a project or get frustrated with it, you have to keep on trucking.

Anyways, my socks are coming along nicely. I love the yarn, the colors are great.

I admit, I don't really feel like posting much right now. I just realized that I still needed to be posting for HSS, so here it is. I'll post again later in the week.

Almost forgot!

2009-04-25T11:24:00.001-07:00

I almost forgot to post this week. Last week it was just a Quidditch post. The term is almost over and my handmade item is almost done. Yay! Next I'll be starting socks for HSS.

My mom may possibly be coming to visit next month. I was thinking of visiting her the end of next month/early June, but I think I'll be waiting until July. We'll have a little bit more $$ then.

I think our big adventure next month will be a trip to Silver Springs. I haven't been there since I was a teen. They have glass bottom boats, which are very cool. They also have a couple of rides, other boat rides, kids stuff, etc. Lots to do, it looks like fun! I think Ethan will really like it. I mentioned we would be going to my mom and she wants to go too. That's where she went on her honeymoon, 38 years ago! SS is about a 2 hour drive from here, so it'll be a day trip.

In an unexpected turn of events, I'm getting a spinning wheel!! Really! Totally not planned. The talent behind Cosmic Fiber is active on one of the forums I'm active on on Ravelry. She just got a new Lendrum and mentioned she would be selling her wheel. It's a Louet S70. It's perfect because it is single treadle and Irish tension. And it's solid oak. She's letting me make payments, so we were able to work it into our budget. I'm pretty excited!

Well, that's about it for now. Ryan has internet most of the time, so we're able to chat a good bit. He's called a couple of times too. Last night they had a going away dinner for one of the Chiefs and they ate at a Honduras restaurant off base. He had quite a large meal, which he said was really good, plus a bottle of water and it cost $6. Nice! :)

Last Round of Quidditch

2009-04-17T17:47:00.000-07:00

1. This “Harry Potter” character’s first name comes from Roman mythology. The mythological character’s twin brother is named Romulus. What is the Harry Potter character last name?

b. Lupin

2. Which “Harry Potter” character’s first name is the Roman equivalent of the Greed Goddess Athena?

c. McGonagall

3. In ‘Harry Potter’ World, this wizard has created the Philosopher’s Stone (called the Sorcerer Stone in the US). The historical figure from the 14th and 15th centuries was a scribe and a manuscript-seller who became famous as an alchemist. Who is this individual?

Nicholas Flamel

4. What is the first name of a character whose last name is the name of a Bulgarian leader from early 9th century who doubled the country’s territory?

c. Viktor

5. Which character’s name is the name of goddess in Indian mythology?

b. Patil

6. “Where the Wild Things Are” tells the story of Max, a young boy sent to bed without his supper for his wild antics. Who created this winner of the Caldecott Medal?
a. Maurice Sendak

7. What was NOT one of the unexpected defense mechanisms that Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Griphook encountered in their attempt to rob Gringotts?

d. The Geminio Curse

8. What was Snape aiming at when he cut off George’s ear?

c. Another Death Eater’s wand hand

9. How much older than James was Lily? (Referring to Harry’s parents, not children).

d. 2 months

10. Food is one of the five exceptions to what magical law?

b. Gamp’s Law of Elemental Transfiguration

Picture Hunt
George
McGonagall
Patil
Where the Wild Things Are

Tomorrow is the big day

2009-04-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

Ryan leaves tomorrow. :( He's been busy packing all day today, doing laundry and what not.

I had not that great of a week. I was so sick on Thursday, I spent all day in bed. I felt better on Friday and finally pretty decent today. Early Thursday morning around 2 am I was getting ready to go to bed. I started feeling a bit lightheaded. I figured it was late and I had been goofing on the computer, so going to sleep would cure that. Wrong. I was so lightheaded all day Thursday and tired too. It was horrible. I am still feeling it a little here and there today, but mostly normal. I had blood drawn on Wednesday, just 2 vials and my period started, I don't know if that had anything to do with it. I have extremely heavy periods. They are checking for anemia, as well as cholesterol, thyroid and .... hmm.. I forgot the last one already. Oh, blood sugar. I hope I don't get that feeling again, it sucked.

I am chugging right along with my HSKS bag. Almost done with the 2nd half. Would have been if I hadn't been sick.

This Wednesday I'm finally getting all of my international packages out. Thank goodness. I'll no longer be doing any international shipping for a while, it just takes me too long to actually get to the PO.

Well, that's about it for now.

Damn

2009-04-05T20:06:00.001-07:00

I still am not posting before Saturday. I hope it all evens out in the end!

We've been without internet access for a good part of today. We were out doing a lot of running around, so it wasn't too big of a deal. But I was feeling a bit tired this evening and just wanted to relax and play some games, no knitting. Instead, we watched most of The Wizard of Oz. I love that movie! Ethan seemed to enjoy it too.

One more week until Ryan leaves. He'll be leaving next Sunday. :( Deployment sucks. I have a decent amount of stuff planned for Ethan and I to do while he's gone. Plus we've started going to the library. Ethan loves the library. I do too. I put a whole shitload of books on hold, not even thinking that most of them would come in around the same time, so now I have a ton of reading to do. Which is fine because I'm really trying to cut back on my internet time. Sometimes it just sucks you in.

So, I'm not even sure if I want to finish reading the last 2 Twilight books. After I finish reading one, I think, it's not even that great. The writing isn't all that. But while I'm reading one, I'm totally sucked in, can't put the book down. I've even read the one that may not get finished, from Edward's point of view and I couldn't get up from the computer. There's a girl who puts summaries of books/movies on her blogs and I read her summaries for the last 2 books. It sounds like the books take a turn for the crazy and I like it. So, I probably will get the last 2 books and the movie. It's so weird though, that the books draw me in like that, but I don't think they're particularly good.

We ordered an XBox 360 Arcade the other day. It's mainly so we can watch Netflix on TV, but I'll also be using it for some game play. We got Scene It today at Best Buy. We got the Live 360 subscription too (you need it for Netflix), so I can play games online as well. When Ryan gets back from Honduras, we're going to get World Tour (I think that's the Guitar Hero one). Ryan will do guitar, I'll sing and he says we'll be able to find a drummer online. :) Sounds like fun!

BTW, even with dishing out $280 for the XBox, Live Gold subscription (13 mts) and a remote control plus our monthly Netflix cost, it's still cheaper than cable. And next year it'll be even cheaper because the XBox is a one time cost. I really like Netflix. I love the instant viewing. I watch a good amount on my computer, but with Ryan gone decided it would be best to be able to watch on the TV too. In the evenings, when it's just me and Ethan, to save my sanity, I usually put a somewhat kid friendly movie on for us both to watch. I usually knit and Ethan plays and sometimes watches. I went through most of our DVDs while Ryan was gone for 2 weeks in San Diego, so I decided we needed a larger library. That's why we're getting the XBox. Anyways, Netflix is great because you can get just about any TV show or movie, either on DVD or Instant view. NO COMMERCIALS! I love that! I don't miss cable at all. Why pay for all those channels when we watch like 3, maybe. We haven't had cable for over a year now, though we just got Netflix in January. And now that I'm going to the library, that gives us even more DVD/VHS options. They're free to check out, which is nice. That's where we picked up The Wizard of Oz. :)

TMI Warning!

I had my annual female doctor visit the other day. It's actually been 3 years since my last, but the doctor said after 35, if you've been having normal paps, you only have to come every 3 years, so I was fine. Anyways, I really wanted my IUD removed. My periods are horrendous and I don't even like having to leave the house. It totally interrupts my normal life and my mood swings are unbearable ( and not just to me!). I haven't felt the string in a very long time. The doctor I was seeing is a family care doctor. He thinks he saw the sting, and it was super short, but he wasn't sure, so I'll have to go to OB/Gyn and may possibly have to be x rayed to make sure it's still there. Ugh. Not only will I have to go back and go through the stirrup procedure again, it's probably going to be a PIA and I may have to get x rayed. I'm going to research BC before going back. I was thinking Yaz because it's supposed to help with PMDD as well as regulate periods. I really don't want to take hormones, which is why I got the copper IUD, but living this way isn't all that great either.

TMI Warning Over

It's been over a week since I swapped anything! Woot! I got most of my packages out yesterday. I still have 3 here that I needed addresses for. My HLBOE package is going out this week. Hopefully Tuesday because I didn't get it all packaged up today. Currently working on my HSKS project. The yarn is ready for my HSS and will be shipped with my club shipment to save on shipping, so in a week probably. I'll try to get my HSKS done before that gets here so I can get started on a gauge swatch right away. That is my plan anyways.

So, I think that's about it for this week. I need to go post on the HSS blog.

Geeeezzz....

2009-03-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

I think I'm a day late again! I meant to blog yesterday, but then forgot. I was even knitting my handmade item for HSKS while playing online Monopoly, you'd think I would remember. Ah well..

My handmade item for the HLBOE swap is done. Well, it needs to be accessorized, but the knitting is done. After frogging and starting over. Colorwork is a PITA and this was supposed to be an easy/beginners colorwork project. I have even more respect now for all those Fair Isle sweaters. Wow. It's cool that I did it, but I don't think I'll be rushing to do another. lol

Now my handmade item for HSKS is underway. Really, I need to start reading patterns before deciding to do them. This isn't going to be a hard knit, per say, but the stitch is uses is different and kind of a PITA. It looks really cool though.

Ryan is on leave and will be deploying on the 12th. We're both glad that he's able to go to Honduras instead of Iraq or Afghanistan, but it still stinks.

Bella is doing well. I discovered she's been peeing on the floor in the extra room and Ethan's room. Unfortunately, I did not discover this until it started to smell bad. But I caught her the other day. I need to get some floor cleaner and a scrub brush to clean the rug, what I have here isn't working for the smell. It's better, but not all gone. She goes out a lot during the day, so I'm hoping this is just an adjustment period type of thing. Arty did it too when we first got her.

We hit up the thrift stores and the swap meet this weekend. It was fun. I got some "new" clothes, which is nice. I also got some DVDs at the swap meet today. I was looking for Nightmare Before Christmas, but no luck. I did get Sleepy Hollow, Pirates of the Carribean 2 and Black Sheep. If you're into zombie horror/comedy movies, check out Black Sheep. I haven't seen it yet, but it looks good, in a bad sort of way. :)

I have been swapping altogether too much lately. I'm not talking about my HP swaps, but the swap/trade boards on Rav. They are addicting and I need to stop. I'm going to unjoin those forums for a bit. I spend way too much on postage. I keep saying I'm going to stop/cut back, but each pay period I end up with $40 or more in postage. So, I'm going to have to unjoin. I really like chatting with the people there, so it's a little sad. I actually want to start cutting back on my internet time in general.

Well, I think Ethan is up to no good, so I'm going to go find him.

Busy Weekend

2009-03-23T17:03:00.000-07:00

DH and I kept busy this weekend. Mostly thrift store shopping and other running around. We're thinking of staying home this coming up weekend. I didn't really get any knitting done over the weekend, just too tired.

Today was busy too, lots of running around to do, I was out of the house for most of the day. No knitting today yet either. :( Maybe this evening after I put E to bed.

My HLBOE and HSKS packages are close to being ready to go. Just have to finish up on the hand knit items. Almost done! Yay! After these and the HSS swap, I am going to take a break from HP swaps. I've been going back and forth on this and have finally decided to take a break. I've been doing HP swaps for about a year now and as much as I love HP, I am HP swapped out. I am really not into the swaps this time around, ie message board, chats. With Ryan leaving soon, E and I will be doing some traveling and what not, so I don't want to be tied up in a swap. Not one that requires a hand knit item anyways.

So, I don't think I posted here that we got a new dog. Her name is Bella and she's a Jack Russell/Beagle mix. We believe she's deaf. She's a very sweet dog, loves to give kisses. She's very good with E too. We've had her for just over a week now. Her and Arty are getting along really well. She's definitely a great addition to our family. :)

Here are some pics. 1st, just Bella. 2nd Bella and Arty.

Quidditch Round 2

2009-03-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

Godric's Hollow

Snape

Luna Lovegood

Ron

Lily

1. On which day did the Order of the Phoenix come to get Harry?

c. Saturday

2. During all this chaos with voldemort and the Death Eaters, people still had lives to live and Ron's oldest brother, Bill decided to marry Fleur Delacour? Who were the uninvited guests at Bill and Fleur's wedding?

b. Death Eaters

3. Voldemort had seven Horcruxes hidden in different places. Six of them were hidden at the Gaunt shack, Hogwarts, a cave, inside Harry, inside his snake, Nagini and Tom Riddles Diary. Did Voldemort hide the last Horcrux inside the Malfoy's vault at Gringotts?

b. No

4. Why did the Dumbledore's move to Godric's Hollow?

c. The father went to Azkaban

5. Harry and Hermione read a part of "Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore," written by Rita Skeeter. Then they met Dumbledore's brother Abeforth and he told them the same story, just with a few details changed. Which of the following did Aberforth and Rita Skeeter agree on about Dumbdore's past?

b. That Dumbledore was friends with Grindelwald for a while.

6. When Harry and Hermione visit Godric's Hollow, they visit the graveyard to see Harry's parent's graves. Harry walks by a tombstone that we later learn belong to tone of "The Three Broother'. The brother buried there once owned what?
a. The ressrection stone
b. The cloak

7. The Trio finds out that Luna had been kidnapped by the Death Eaters , and that they won't give her back until they got Harry Potter. Why did they kidnap Luna?
a. Her father sided with Harry and Dumbledore

8. After Voldemort killed Snape, he left the room and Harry came out from under the cloak. Snape gave Harry some of his memories all the way from when he was a child to just months before. Harry dived into the Pensieve and which of the following did he not see?

c. Snape and Lily having fun in a potions class

9. On the search of the Lost Diadem, Harry finally gets to takl to the Gray Lady. Who was the Gray Lady when she was alive?

c. Helena Ravenclaw.

10. Which of these is not one of Harry or Ron's children?

d. Victoria

On time this week!

2009-03-07T19:54:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure I'm just barely making it on time this week. Have had a pretty busy week and got some stuff done. Like going to the DMV. Yah, that is fun, but my DL finally has my married name on it (I'll be married for 5 years this year) and my correct address.

I also visited a new LYS. I had known about it, but had never been. It's very nice and we enjoyed our visit there. They have a bit different stock than my other LYS that I would normally go too, so it's nice to have a local selection.

I'll be mailing out my HLBOE swap package within the next couple of weeks and plan on shipping my HSKS package within the first couple of weeks of April. I've got to check and see when the early shipping dates are.

Ryan came home today, which is nice. He's glad to be home too. :)

Quick posting

2009-03-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post so people know I'm still around.

I think I totally missed the time limit for HSKS, though I'm good for HLBOE swap.

I've got the vast majority of shopping done for these 2 swaps, just a few local things I need to pick up, Yay!

I'm in HSS too and I think I know what yarn I'll be using for that swap. Hopefully it'll still be there for sale when I go to get it. :)

I finished my Jim Jones socks yesterday and my STR Knitters w/o Borders socks are almost done too. I started No Purl Monkeys today with Cosmic Fiber's Dexter's Donuts.

Speaking of which, Dexter will be coming to my house in a couple of days. It's next on my queue with Netflix. We currently have The Nightmare Before Christmas, and watched it 3 times this weekend. Ethan really liked it. It'll go in the mail tomorrow and Dexter should be here by Wednesday.

I have to say that Netflix is worth every penny. I love watching instantly and getting the DVD is nice too. We don't have cable and it is an excellent alternative. Much less expensive and no annoying commercials. It is, however, cutting into my X Files marathon. I've been working on getting through all the X Files seasons for about a year. I'm in Season 7 now, but that got set aside as I started watching Doctor Who. And now I have Dexter and Torchwood coming too. I did watch the X Files movie last week, which I loved. That is one I'll buy, along with Pirates of the Carribean 2 & 3.

Well, I'm going to run for now. I'll have a better update in a few days.

The 6th Picture

2009-02-19T12:26:00.001-08:00

Here is what you do:
1. Go to your pictures on your computer
2. Open the 6th folder
3. Choose the 6th picture
4. Show the picture on your blog and write something about it.
5. Invite 6 new people to this challenge.
6. Link to them and let them know they have been tagged.

My 6th folder only had 2 pictures in it and they were both the same. Here it is!

These are, IIRC, Romney or Romney blend locks that I bought raw. I washed them, dyed them, hand carded them and spun them for a spin along I was doing. The colors represent a crab nebula. It was fun.

Quidditch Round 1

2009-02-19T12:11:00.000-08:00

1. What momentous event was the reason that the members of the Order of the Phoenix felt it necessary to move Harry out of the Dursley’s house?

d. Harry’s upcoming birthday

2. Who revealed the actual date of Harry’s transfer to Voldemort, despite the misinformation the Order had been spreading around that the move would occur on the eve of his actual birthday?

b. Snape

3. With the use of Polyjuice Potion (and to confuse any possible attack by Death Eaters), six member of the Order were disguised as Harry and escorted out of Privet Drive, along with the real Harry. Which member of the order did not survive that night?
a. Mad-Eye Moody

4. Who informed Harry, Ron and Hermione of the bequests left to them in Dumbledore’s will?

d. Rufus Scimgeour

5. During the wedding celebration for Bill and Fleur, Kingley Shacklebolt sent a Patronus to tell the guests that the Ministry had fallen, Scrimgeour (the Minister) was dead and the wedding celebration was about to be attacked by Death Eaters. What form did the Patronus take?
a. A lynx

6. Escaping from the wedding to London, our three friends found themselves confronted by a pair of Death Eaters, disguised as workmen. This close brush impressed on them the need to find someplace to hide. Where did they decide to go?

b. Sirius Black’s house

7. Kreacher’s animosity towards Harry, Ron and especially Hermione (a Mudblood) was well documented in book five, “The Order of the Phoenix.” His initial interaction with them showed that his attitude had not changed. How did they win him over?

d. By giving him Regulus Black’s old locket

8. Who did they eventually find was in possession of the locket/Horcrux?

d. Dolores Umbridge

9. What did Harry find embedded in the door of Umbrdige’s office?
a. Moody’s magical eye

10. After retrieving the Horcrux, they tried to return to their safe place but they were pursued (actually Yaxley tagged along when they disapparated). This meant that the Death Eaters knew their hiding place and they had to go somewhere else. Where did Hermione take them?

d. To the site of the Quidditch World Cup

Picture Scavenger Hunt
The pictures must be posted on your blog or at least linked to from your blog. Make sure that the links work or you will not get credit.

Mad-Eye Moody

Nymphadora Tonks

George Weasley

The Dursley's House

Kreacher

Can't read directions...

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

Ok, so I see I was supposed to put definitions with my words. Yah, not going to happen. I am way too lazy for that. But it was fun word hunting. I play these kind of games on Facebook and Pogo. It's fun.

My mom flew in last night and we were out running around all day today. Going to be out tomorrow too. I think Monday we'll stay home and relax. I'll work on my duel hat then. My partner mailed yesterday, so I knew I was dead.

I've been working on my hat for the HLBOE swap. It's my first time doing stranded colorwork. Unfortunately, I had to frog after getting a good amount into the hat. But, it was a learning experience and I know what to do this time. I'm only on the ribbing now, but hope to get some time to work on it tomorrow. I have my luxury item already and just need to pick up a couple of other goodies for this package.

My yarn arrived yesterday for the HSKS swap project. I'll get started on that after I finish up my HLBOE hat. My spoilee wants a bag kit, so I'll have to start looking for a pattern and yarn for her. I do have an idea, a bag I've made recently for my sister. Easy pattern, fun to make and very cute.

So, we went thrift store shopping today. I got 3 sweaters to reclaim yarn from. I did my first sweater a couple of weeks ago and it was fun. I dyed some of it up this week. I dyed some sock yarn I had too. I did one of the sock yarns in a Doctor Who colorway I created. I haven't had time to reskein all my dyeing efforts, but maybe next week sometime and I really want to do a little swatch on the Doctor Who yarn to see how it looks.

I've discovered a new Indie dyer. Her yarn is called Cosmic Fibers and she has a shop on Etsy. I am in love with her colorways. I currently have Jim Jones on the needles (a sock). I just got one of her Dexter colorways and have another one coming. She also has a Neferious sock club that I belong to and it's awesome! She's done HP colorways too and I really want to get the Deathly Hollow colorway.

I've found 2 other Indie dyers who do HP colorways that work up really nice. Mackintosh Yarns (just bought one of hers) and RazzyTazzyKnits.

So, I've been doing a lot of yarn shopping lately and it's been fun. I've been lucky enough to get some skeins of Wollmeise. I'm currently working with Wilder Mohn and it's just beautiful worked up. I have some SOS. I have Indisch Rot and Schwartz coming and one that starts with an H (some sort of honey colorway).

Tomorrow we're going to the flea market to shop around. Should be fun, it usually is. :)

Tonight Ryan and I are going out to dinner. It's already 20 after 7, waiting for him and my mom to get back from Publix, she wanted to pick up something for herself for dinner and some milk for tomorrow. We were originally going to go out tomorrow night, but Ryan has a lot of homework due tomorrrow and with all the running around we've been doing, we decided to just go to dinner tonight and probably the book store after. We're going to a restaurant called Sticky Fingers and I'm getting the ribs. They're really good. And they have the best pecan pie ever.

Well, I think that's about all for now.

Gryffindor Homework ulgemgtdesuis

2009-02-14T13:30:00.000-08:00

Muggle Studies

glum
dust
must
gust
lust
stud
suds
studs
dusts
gusts
lusts
dies
die
ties
tie
lies
lie
lime
time
times
diets
diet
glides
glide
mugs
mug
sets
set
met
let
lets
mutes
mute
gluts
glut
slides
slide
sides
side
miles
mile
tiles
tile
dug
lug
lugs
tugs
tug
dimes
dime
tides
tide
site
sites
gels
gel
lite
mules
mule
duel
duels
sued
sues
sue
lusted
timed
slug
slugs
slum
slums
slims
slim
stems
stem
lest
guest
guests
slit
slits
lit
sit
sits
gum

84 so far

mess
less
muss
miss
guess
gems
gem
gens
gen
guns
gun
tuns
tunes
tune
tun
dunes
dune
tuned
geld
guts
gut
eds
ems
ids
digs
dig
leg
legs
lugged
mugged
missed
mussed
tugged
sided
dis
lute
lutes
limes

123

mite
mites
smiled
smile
smiles
smite
smites
git
gits
gets
get
geds
ged
guide
guides
gist
lists
list
mists
mist
misted
listed
slimes
slime
ted
teds
med
led

152

I've got to stop for now. I'm kind of tired and I want to brush my teeth. BBL with possibly more words and an update in general.

Gryffindor Homework Assignment

2009-02-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

What are your three most favorite colors? I have to pick just 3? Hmm.... orange, purple and red/pinks. I really love all colors, especially if they're deep and bright and lovely. I'm not a big fan of pastels.
What are you three least favorite colors? Greys, certain blues and yellows
Your favorite candy is __Chocolate! _______________.
Who is your favorite Weasley? Molly
Do you knit, crochet, or both? Both
What type of kit did you ask for? Sock or Fingerless gloves
Acrylic— (a) has its uses, (b) should all be burned, (c) best yarn to work with? (choose an answer) B
Who is the Gryffindor Head Girl ? CentyB
Name four "extras" you would love to receive in your kit. Row counter bracelet, a Knit Picks gauge/ruler/needle sizer thing (I received on in a past swap and my dog chewed about a quarter of it off. &*(# I still use it, but I'd love a new one lol), stitch markers and candy! :)
What are your three most favorite scents? I love musky, subtle scents. Not fruity or artificial/chemicaly
Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks? Both hehe
Which Gryffindor and Slytherin students are sisters in real life? Lizzy Wychwood and Emma Wigwort
Do you really need more stitch markers? Yes, I love stitch markers.
DPNs, circular, or straight? DPN's or circs. I've only used DPN's on my socks so far, but sometime this year I'm going to learn magic loop and 2 circs.
Favorite yarn? Dream yarn? I LOVE Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock. It's such a nice yarn to work with. I'm open to just about any Indy dyers though.
Favorite HP Movie? Goblet of Fire
Favorite HP character? Severus Snape (Minerva Mcgonagall runs a close 2nd)
What is your favorite pattern? Hmm... I don't really have one. After doing a pattern once or twice, I kinda move on. I'm currently using a very basic sock pattern for my footies and I can see that being used a few times, but otherwise I like trying different patterns.
Cathiasplace

Busy Weekend

2009-02-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

That's what I had. Did a lot of running around. I'll post more about it tomorrow, just getting a quick post in now so I don't miss the week.

TaTa!

Getting it Right!

2009-01-25T18:27:00.000-08:00

Yah, I'm getting it right this week. Blogging on time. :)

I've posted on Ravelry, but I'll mention it here too. I've decided to donate chemo caps to the West Palm Beach VMAC. This is where my dad was treated and passed away, so I'll be very happy to send some donations to their chemo patients. I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner.

I have finally finished a pair of longies I've been doing for a trade. I am so glad. I had to set them aside for holiday knitting and am glad to have them done! They'll be in the mail this week, woot!

This week I also finally fixed my 1st pair of socks. See, after I finished knitting them, they were a little big. So, even though they're superwash, I thought a trip through the washer and dryer might shrink them just a little. It didn't, but it did give one of them a hole. I thought it was fixable and it was. Yay! I'm almost done with my 2nd pair of socks now and just started my 3rd pair today. My 2nd and 3rd pair are footies. I love them. They're pretty quick and that's what I wear anyways.

I'm waiting to hear back from my spoilee from the HLBOE swap about colors and waiting for Charmed Knits to get here and then I can get started on my project. I think I know which yarn I'll be using.

I signed up for HSKS7 this week. I'm looking forward to finding out who my partner is. It seems the requirement for this term is knitting a bag. I was thinking of that anyways, but no decision until after I hook up with my spoilee.

I am also involved in the Bitchcake Swap on Ravelry. Fortunately this swap does not require me to make anything, just fun buying. :) We do a small gift this month and next and the large surprise in March.

Ok, so I've decided I really want to build my stash up some this year. So, I now belong to 4 yarn clubs. Three of them are socks and one is cotton. Only 1 is monthly, so that makes it a little better. The others are all bi-monthly. Here they are:

The Unique Sheep's Lord of the Ring Sock Club and Rubber Ducky Club.

The Loopy Ewe's Sock Club

Cosmic Fiber's Neferious Club

Should be a lot of fun!

Well, the little guy is wanting my attention, so I'm going to close this for now.

It's not Monday...

2009-01-19T19:10:00.000-08:00

And I'm posting. Yay! Oh crap, it is Monday! Ryan had today off work so I was thinking it was Sunday. I am sorry Pren.

Well, I'm fairly embarrassed now.

I think I've got my charity nailed down, I've got to call them tomorrow. It'll be for chemo caps, I hope. I'm calling the VA hospital my dad was treated at. They do accept donations, I just have to call and make sure chemo caps are wanted and what kind of materials. Once I have all that info, I will post it to the Rav board.

Oh My Gosh!

2009-01-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot to post again. Geez. Thank goodness Pren is on the west coast and I hope she hasn't checked yet.

I am having a hard time getting into the swing of things for this swap. I think because it's been so long between the inception and it starting.

I am still trying to find a SPEW charity. I emailed what I thought would be a local charity, but haven't heard back, so I'm going to have to do things the hard way. Actually make phone calls or visits. lol I'll try to remember tomorrow morning to stop at the hospital on base and see if they have a volunteer coordinator. I'd like to find a charity where we can donate chemo caps and preemie/baby caps. So, hopefully that will be a go for us. I will post to the Rav board when I know for sure.

So, HSKS7 is getting ready to start soon too. I considered not signing up since I'm doing this swap, as well as participating in a KAL/CAL and I have holiday gifts I need to finish in about a month (when my mom comes to visit), but hey, it's The Deathly Hallows and will be my 4th time. I've got to participate. Plus, it's a fun swap and I enjoy the people who participate. Once again, I flirted with the idea of a different house, but I really enjoy the other Gryffindor peeps. They're a fun bunch, so I'll stick with Gryffindor. :)

This week I need to get in contact with my spoilee and see what kind of hat she prefers or if she just wants a surprise.

All right, I'm going to post this so it'll be there when Pren checks. :)

Last Quidditch Round

2008-11-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

1. Who was Tom Riddle Sr.'s girlfriend before Merope gave him the love potion?

b. Cecilia

2. What does Luna say floated into Harry's ear when he was in the train car that supposedly caused him to lose focus?

c. Wrackspurt

3. How much do the primary Apparition lessons cost?

d. 12 galleons

4. What is Professor Merrythought's first name?

b. Galatea

5. What Hogwarts club was Eileen Prince captain of?

b. Gobstones Club

6. Who is head of the Goblin Liaison office?

b. Dirk Cresswell

7. Mrs. Weasley offers Fleur a goblin-made tiara for the wedding with Bill. What family member is currently in possession of the tiara?
a. Aunt Muriel

8. How many points does Snape take from Gryffindor for Harry's late arrival and muggle attire?

b. 70

9. When Profressory Slughorn first meets Hermione, he asks her whether she is related to Hector Dagworth-Granger. What society did Dgworth-Granger found?

d. The Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers

10. Which of these describes Golpalott's Third Law?

d. The antidote for a blended poison will be equal to more than the sum of the antidotes for each of the separtea components

An Owl Has Arrived!

2008-11-06T18:35:00.001-08:00

And it was carrying my swap package.

What an awesome package! Thank you Emerald for the hand-dyed Gryffindor color sock yarn. I love it!!

I received a very nice bag in house colors. I needed a knitting bag to take with me to knit-ins and this is going to be it. It's perfect for the job.

I also received some Hiya Hiya needles. I've been wanting to try those. Lots of great Halloween goodies that are now in new home on shelves. Some wonderful crocheted candy corn. I love candy corn and was excited to see those in there.

There was plenty of candy (including candy corn!). Some great Vanna yarn in house colors. Lovely stitch markers. Just a totally great package!

Thank you so much Emerald!

Gryffindor Quiz #4

2008-11-01T03:52:00.000-07:00

1. Name your favorite magical creature, and describe why it is your favorite.

I love unicorns. I don't think they're anywhere in the HP books, but they are my favorite magical creatures. After that, centaurs. Perhaps I should mention that I also love horses. I'm fairly certain that my love of horses has a lot to do with my favorite magical creatures. I like the Pegasus too, but you just don't see them around as much in fantasy books. Unicorns and centaurs pop up a lot more.

2. Tell us your favorite charm, spell or curse, and explain why you like it.

All right. It's 7 am and I haven't had any caffeine yet. I can't think of any charms, spells or curses that I totally love. I love Transfiguration because I think it would be very cool to be able to transform yourself into something else.

3. Describe your favorite holiday family tradition - which holiday and what makes it special.

Halloween is currently my favorite holiday. Mainly because I like all the dark, spooky stuff. We don't have any traditions surrounding it though.

4. Name your favorite fiber-based (knitted, crocheted, or spun) finished object.

Hmm... I honestly don't think I could have just one as a favorite. I love all my FO's. I have some spun yarn that I am pretty proud of and love. Especially my spindle spun stuff. I also have a very pretty crocheted shawl that I love.

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T03:31:00.000-07:00

We went to a Halloween party last night. After the party we came home and pretty much went to bed, so I didn't get my blog post up. The party was a lot of fun. Ethan had a really good time. He ate a few cookies, appeared to get a sugar high, was running around like a maniac and then tripped and fell. He was done after that. He was ok, just the sugar and being past his bedtime...

Today I'm going to our Jax Ravelers get together. It should be a good time with good food too. It's also a destash, so I gathered a few items that I don't think I'll be using.

I am almost done with my 1st pair of socks. I think I have about another half inch or so before starting the toe decreases. I'm pretty excited about it! I would have been done with them, but last weekend I started another pair. I am to the heel turn on that pair. I had to stop because the needles were too slippery and kept dropping out. I ordered another set from Knitpicks (in Harmony) and am just waiting for them to arrive. I stared my 3rd pair yesterday with my "Thriller" yarn from the Halloween Sock Kit Swap. I'm using the pattern that came with my kit too. I think they're going to be very cool socks. My other 2 socks, I am using the book Sensational Knitted Socks.

I don't know why the sock bug has suddenly hit me. It all started when I went to see the Yarn Harlot. I bought a skein of Lorna's Laces Bee Stripe sock yarn. I wanted something mindless I could do while listening to the Yarn Harlot and my Pinwheel hat wasn't going to cut it. So, I bought one skein thinking I'd try some ankle socks. Then I just kept going and had to go back and buy another skein. And I've been destashing a lot of my sewing stuff and some yarn and have been building up my sock yarn stash. Even though my stash pales in comparison to many others, I am quite happy with it. :)

I do still need to finish my Pinwheel hat. It's going to be very cool. I also need to get the Mini Boob Holder done for my sister. I also have to get started on a pair of longies for a trade. And I need to find someone to sew for me.

My swap package is coming along nicely. When I ordered my needles, I picked up a couple of other items for my spoilee. With that, the package will be just about finished. I just need to finish my 2nd handmade item (which has been sorely neglected with all the sock love going around) and my package will be in the mail next week. I have to check on the early shipping date again.

I think that's it for now.

Gryffindor House Quiz 3

2008-10-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

"Dumbledore said people find it far easier to forgive others for being wrong than being right."

Hermione Granger

Bonus 1: Who became scarred and developed a taste for raw meat in Chapter 29 of HBP? Bill Weasley
Bonus 2: Who developed an antidote for a birthday present in Chapter 18 of HBP? Horace Slughorn

Quidditch Round Two

2008-10-17T19:18:00.000-07:00

1. What animal does the portrait in the Muggle Prime Minster’s office resemble?
b. Frog

2. What drink does Romilda Vane try to give Harry?
a. Gillywater

3. What is the name of the person who heads the Holyhead Harpies?

b. Gwenog Jones

4. How many ‘Exceeds Expectation’ grades does Harry receive in his O.W.L’s?

c. 5

5. What is Professor Sughorn’s favorite candy?

d. Crystallized Pineapple

6. What tattoo is Harry reported to have on his chest?

c. Hippogriff

7. What color robes do the staff at the Weasley’s shop wear?

b. Magenta

8. What is the man outside Flourish and Blotts selling?
a. Amulets

9. How much is the skull, which Hermione enquires about at Borgin and Burkes, worth?

c. 16 Galleons

10. What are Professor Slughorn’s initials?

b. H.E.F.

2nd Gryffindor Quiz

2008-10-12T16:37:00.000-07:00

1. At what are Hogwarts students allowed to swear loudly if Venomous Tentaculae attempts to strangle them?

2. An animal form protector charm is a Patronus.

3. Who is the potions master in HBP? Horace Slughorn

4. What is Aragog? A Acromantula

5. Who is imperiused and cursed by a necklace in HBP? Katie Bell

6. What does Harry destroy in HBP? Horcruxes

7. Draught of living death is comprised of ? (list the four components) Wormwood, Asphodel, Sopohorus, & Valerian.

8. What potion can reverse the draught of living death? Wiggenweld Potion

Bonus: Who is R. A. B.? Regulus Arcturus Black

Yay, it's Friday!

2008-10-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been quite a week! Ryan has been working late every night this week, coming home after 9 or 10 pm. He goes to work at 7:30. Last night was the worst, he didn't get home until after 3 am. We were up again at 6:30 to get ready for work. I snuck in an hour nap today, but we are still beat.

E's been fussy, not just because he's off schedule with Ryan working late, but also because we took the pacifier away this week. I think it was Tuesday we threw it away. Each day has been better, but he still does ask for it.

E turned 3 today!! Gosh, it's gone by fast. He's still such a little guy, but not as little as he used to be. He had a really good day. I took him to Chick-Fil-A for breakfast. Our next door neighbors actually made his day. They are having a yard sale today and tomorrow. We walked over after getting home this morning. Our neighbor gave E her birthday balloon she had received the evening before. He loved it. He was also given a small vintage fire truck they were selling. Well, that alone made his day. He spent the rest of the day playing with the balloon and the fire truck. He even took his nap with the balloon. I went in to check on him and he was sleeping holding onto the balloon. I moved it to the end of the bed, went in to check on him again in like an hour or so and he was holding it again! lol This evening we were almost done eating dinner and our neighbor came over with a wrapped present for E. He was so excited. So we gave him his birthday cupcake with a 3 candle, sung him a birthday song and let him open the gift. He got a truck and trailer ensemble, which he loves. We didn't even buy him any gifts, because he just has so many toys already. His great grandma did send him some cash that we used to buy him a couple of new trains earlier in the week (to help ease the pacifier loss). So, our neighbors rocked his socks. :)

This week I finished off my Moebius Cowl. I started the Pinwheel Hat yesterday. It has cables. I am doing cables and am very proud of it! It looks so cool. Why was I scared of cables for so long? I also crocheted one of the Punk Wrist Warmers fingerless gloves.

Spinning wise, I finished 2 projects. Got a bit further along on the 3rd and started another one. I am definitely happy just having spindles.

I tried to get some sewing done this week as well. I've decided that sewing is not my #1 hobby. I was doing a simple project and it was still so frustrating! I've decided to sell my Brother sewing machine and my Juki serger and put that money towards servicing my vintage table machine. I'll use that machine for any sewing that I want to do. I've had the machine for probably a year now and haven't used it. It's a very nice vintage machine with a Brother motor. I think it's from the 50's.

Well, I think that is all for this week. Oh, Grandma Grubblyplank has decided to start a new Hogwarts swap. It's a little bit of everything and looks to be much fun. It won't be starting until January. I think it's going to be a great swap.

I'll be getting my Halloween Sock Kit Swap package out on Monday. I have a couple of more goodies to pick up this weekend and a little something I want to make too.

I think I'll be able to get out my HSKS6 package within the next 2 weeks. I wanted to have it out on the 15th, but I'm not sure if I'll be done with my 2nd handmade item. I have a couple more little things to pick up as well.

We'll be going to the swap meet tomorrow. Yay! I love the swap meet. I think we'll also be going to Joann's. I have 2 50% off coupons and 1 40% off. I'm going to get some refills for my B Stylin button machine. I also want to see if they have Cotton Ease in black. I'm going to make my sister a Mini Boob Holder for Christmas and she wants black. I may also check out the Paton's SWS.... :) We may also have a trip to AC Moore to see if I can find adhesive magnets for the backs of my buttons. I discovered that it's easy to take the pin part out. It would be fun to make magnets for E.

Ok, that's really it for now. :)

1st Gryffindor Quiz

2008-10-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

What yarn shop did Henry Longstaff shop at for yarn? Mrs. Mac's
Who is the HSKS6 SPEW coordinator? Cliodnia Acromantula
Which Gryff student just returned from London? Lady Ferula the Forgetful
Which Gryffindor has cats named after the muggle rock band, The Ramones? Dagmara Grindelwald
What is your favorite childhood television program (Magic or Muggle)? Scooby Doo
What is your favorite adult television program (Magic or Muggle)? The Closer and Law & Order
Which travel destination did you last visit? St. Augustine, FL
What was your last finished object (FO)? Fingerless gloves for Ethan
How many project(s) planned for holiday gifts? How many do you expect to actually finish and give? I have 2 planned holiday gifts. One for my mom and one for my sister. Hopefully both!
Who is the mother of Half Blood Prince? Eileen Prince
Which Weasley became engaged in Book 6 (Half Blood Prince)? Bill
What is the result of a Sectumsempra curse? It causes cuts to appear and extreme bleeding. Harry used it on Draco. Who can blame him? Though I doubt he would have used it if he knew what it did.
Who used a Bezoar to reverse poisoning? Harry used one to save Ron's life.

What a Week!

2008-10-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week for this Gryffindor girl! Nothing specific really. Just a lot of running around and Ethan being almost 3. Next Friday is his birthday!

I did a fair amount of housework (for me anyways!) this week. I worked on my Moebius cowl and something else I'm doing for my spoilee.

This evening I was cutting fabric. Enough for 15 fleece soakers. It took me about an hour and a half or so. I want to try to get them sewn up this weekend.

Also this weekend, I'm hoping to get 3 hats crocheted and a couple of other little crocheted items done. I think this is going to be a crafty weekend.

It's after 11 already. I'll be back tomorrow to do the quiz.

Oh! I also got a B Stylin button machine this week. It really is a lot of fun! I've made 7 buttons so far and they have all turned out great. The buttons are 1". I don't particularly care for the pins on the back, but otherwise, they're great!

I told Ryan about possibly buying a regular button machine in a couple of months or so. He kind of made fun of me, but said that was fine. Then later in the evening he asked if I could make a button for him! Really! I'd really like to make magnets and have been pricing machines and magnet parts. I like the 1" buttons. So, we'll see how I feel about buttons come tax time.

I am pretty well decided that I will not purchase another wheel. That was what I had planned on doing around tax time. Honestly though, I am perfectly happy with the spinning I've been doing on my spindles. I have been doing so much more knitting and crocheting since I sold my wheel. I've really been enjoying it. I'll have pictures tomorrow. The production is much slower on a spindle, but that is ok. I still have a good amount of yarn sitting here from when I had a wheel. Slower production is a ok. I am on the waiting list for a Bosworth Moosie and I think that may complete my collection for the time being. I've thinned out my stash a bit and sold/gifted 3 of my spindles. Currently I am spinning on my Bosworth and 2 of my Butterflygirldesigns spindles. Yes, I have 3 spinning projects going on. :) Oh, and I'd also like to get another Ashford niddy noddy. If I'm doing singles, which is what I'm usually doing, I like to wind my yarn off on my niddy noddy and keep adding to it as I go. When one project lasts for weeks, this ties up the niddy noddy. :)

So, tomorrow I'll post pics of a lot of my FO's. Some are from months ago, but some are from the past 6 weeks or so. I took most of the pics this evening. I'll be posting them on Ravelry too.

I think that's going to be it for tonight. I'm going to go get a couple of games of Scramble in on Facebook. Good night!

Quidditch Round 1

2008-09-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

1. At the beginning of the book, Cornelius Fudge is talking to the Muggle Prime Minister. Which member of the Order of the Phoenix has recently been found dead?

c. Emmeline Vance

2. What animal does Bellatrix Lestrange kill when she and her sister, Narcissa, are going to see Professor Snape?

b. Fox

3. What time does Professor Dumbledore collect Harry from Privet Drive?

b. 11 p.m.

4. What did Professor Sluhorn transform into when he was trying to hide from Harry and Professor Dumbledore?
a. An armchair

5. What grade did Harry get for Herbology?
a. E – Exceeds Expectation

6. Herbert Chorley, the Prime Minister’s Junior Minster, has been entertaining the public by impersonating which animal?

b. A duck

7. What is Professor Sprout’s first name?

d. Pomona

8. What is Dumbledore’s idea of ‘a few words’?
a. nitwit, odder, blubber rand tweak

9. Who is Marcus Belby’s famous uncle?

c. Tiberius

10. What is Snape’s mother’s name?

b. Eileen Prince

Pictures
Post pictures to your blogs or link to the pictures from your blog post.

Narcissa

Snape

Bellatrix

Professor Sprout

Professor Dumbledore

Picture Pages, Picture Pages...

2008-09-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

Time to get your Picture Pages, time to get your crayons and your pencils...

Oh, this isn't picture pages, it's Picture Day. Sorry, I had a slip back to the late 70's/early 80's. I just Googled Picture Pages. It was on Captain Kangaroo in the late 70's, with Captain Kangaroo doing it. I don't remember that, I remember Bill Cosby doing the PP. He started doing them in 1980.

Anyways, here's my picture:

This is in St Augustine inside Flagler College. My sister and I went on a tour. The chair I am sitting in is an original, as old as the building. St Augustine is a wonderful place, full of history. I love it because it's Florida history. And a lot of it is based around Henry Flagler. Growing up in West Palm Beach, we have some Henry Flagler history there too. Very interesting.

So, I don't have any interesting Hogwarts story to go along with my picture. And I've noticed that the picture that I use on Ravelry also has the orange Sightseeing Train sticker on it. Hey, I live in Jacksonville, very close to St Augustine. I love to visit St Augustine. :)

A Knitting Marathon...

2008-09-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

For me anyways! That's what I've been doing and I completed my hand made item. I am quite happy with it and hope my spoilee is too. I've also already ordered other parts of my kit. I'm having quite a good time with it. :)

Finally went to the gym yesterday after a 2 week hiatus. I had a session with my trainer. Today I have been sore, but in a good way. It was nice to get moving again.

I've been taking Ethan to the park this week. He loves it! We bring his tricycle and he has a great time. I've decided my gym schedule is going to be Tues (Pilates), Wed (cardio and strength) and Fri (cardio and strength). So, I can take Ethan to the park Mon and Thur mornings. He loves going to the Playcenter at the gym too.

I can't believe Ethan will be 3 on October 10th! I'm going to make cupcakes for his birthday, from Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World.

Tomorrow I really need to bake some bread. I also need to wash diapers and finish up some other laundry. Dueling starts tomorrow too. I need to get my yarn and hook ready.

I must say, I really enjoyed knitting up my handmade item. The pattern was fairly simple to follow and the yarn was a joy. I am also somewhat proud of myself, as it's something different than the stuff I'm used to knitting.

And I found something else I'd like to knit tonight. A Hogwarts scarf, in Gryffindor colors, of course! I'd really like a nice, long scarf. The pattern calls for 4 balls of yarn, 2 of each color. I found some online for $5/each, so I just have to wait until we have a little extra $$.

So, I guess that's all that's been going on this week. I really need to get to sewing some stuff, but I've been all about knitting, crocheting and spinning lately. Especially knitting and crocheting, since I sold my wheel.

A Plethora of Quizzes

2008-09-14T04:40:00.000-07:00

I decided it was time to finally get my wand posted. :)

Wood type: birch
Length: 11 inches
Core: Gryffon Feather

get your own wand!

And to post my Patronus charm....

What Patronus Charm would you create?

Sea Otter
You would create an Otter Patronus just like Hermione. Your personality must be intelligent, determined, thoughtful, and graceful.

How do you compare?
Take this test! | Tests from Testriffic

My HP Husband....

Your result for The Harry Potter Husband Test...

Mrs. Bill Weasley

Your perfect HP man is Bill Weasley.

You like guys who are cool. And not cool in that fake, dicky way, but actually cool. He's so cool that they couldn't find any actor to adequately portray him, so they decided to just leave him out of the movies rather than risk not doing justice to his coolness. He's like the Chuck Norris of Harry Potter: plain freaking awesome. When Voldemort says "You-Know-Who", he's talking about Bill Weasley.

(Fanarty by The Starhorse http://the-starhorse.deviantart.com/ Used with permission.)

Take The Harry Potter Husband Test at HelloQuizzy

Questionnaire

2008-09-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

Potter Name: Morgana Black

Rav ID: cathiasplace

I am allergic to: Nothing

Pets that I have: Arty the Wonder Dog

My favorite yarn: Hmm... I really love Peace Fleece and Malabrigo. Really, any type of non-synthetic yarn is yummy!

If you are a Ravenclaw, do you prefer the film colors or the book colors? N/A

My favorite flavor: Chocolate and candy corn.

My favorite holiday: Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas: Gosh... I really like Christmas, but I'm going to have to go with Halloween.

I would like to receive a: (Sock kit, scarf kit or yarn dyeing kit) If I had to pick, a sock or scarf kit. A surprise is good though. :)

List your favorite brand of needles or hooks, including size and length: I really like Addi's and Knit Picks Harmony. Size 2 is needed. DPN's or long circ.

Is there a brand that you are dying to try?: Nope.

I've participated in HSKS: (How many times have you participated in HSKS swaps?) This is my 3rd term.

Do you have a birthday during this swap? If so which day? Nope.

New Term!

2008-09-10T15:57:00.001-07:00

It's time for a new term. This will be my 3rd term here at Hogwarts. I am very fortunate to be able to return this term.

This swap is so much fun, I am glad I am able to participate again.

Roar Roar Gryffindor!!!!

Just under the wire

2008-07-26T19:05:00.001-07:00

Wow, I'm barely making this post on time this week. Things have been hectic here with the move. We also ended up having car troubles this week and our account has gone into the negative. It's not been a fun week on the financial front. I'm selling my spinning wheel to help us out. And I'm already dreaming of what I'll get when tax time rolls around. :)

Otherwise, things have actually been fun around here. My sister is visiting. She is a champion packer and is being a huge help, even fixing dinner. Plus we're having fun playing board games in the evening. Ethan loves her and she's great with him.

We're almost done with packing and moving. I think we'll get all the smaller stuff done tomorrow. Monday we'll have the truck for all the furniture and will be spending Monday night at the new place. Tuesday will be cleaning. Fun fun.

Anyways, that's what has been going on around here, been a busy week!

Quidditch Round 3

2008-07-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

Quidditch ~ Round Three

1. When Hagrid returns to Hogwarts after being sent to see the giants with Madame Maxime, Professor Umbridge questions him on his late return to school. She suspects that Hagrid had been to the mountains, but where does he tell her he has been?

d. South of France

2. Professor Umbridge comes to Hagrid's Hut and searches his cabin one evening (as she believes Harry, Ron and Hermione are there visiting him at night when they are not supposed to). When she walks past the place where Harry, Ron and Hermione are hiding under the Invisibility Cloak, Harry holds his breath. True or false?

b. False

3. A stately-looking witch in an emerald green shawl is one of the members of the Advance Guard who rescues Harry from Privet Drive. What is her name?
a. Emmeline Vance

4. What is the name of the witch who was killed two weeks after the photo of the original Order of the Phoenix was taken?

b. Marlene McKinnon

5. Which two fifth year Ravenclaw students does Dumbledore choose to be prefects?

d. Anthony Goldstein and Padma Patil

6. Which house was Rose Zeller sorted into?

d. Hufflepuff

7. What is the color of Murtlap's essence?

c. Yellow

8. Name the Ravenclaw girl who became prefect in Harry's fifth year.

b. Padma Patil

9. According to a healer's portrait at St. Mungo's hospital, which disease was Ron suffering from?

d. Spattergroit

10. Which book did Harry give Hermione for Christmas?

d. "Moste Potente Potions"

Picture Scavenger Hunt
Padma Patil
Hannah Abott
Percy
Dumbledore's Army
Cedric Diggory

(Extra 5 pts - What movie will Robert Patterson star in this December?) Twilight

An Owl Arrived Today!

2008-07-09T11:39:00.001-07:00

And he had a lovely package with him! Ophelia Crookshanks went above and beyond on her kit. I love love love the messenger bag. It fits perfectly, is roomy enough for E's diapers etc., and is just lovely! Here are the pictures!

As you can see, it's a totally awesome package! Thank you, Ophelia! You did a great job and I love everything!

Time if flying...

2008-07-04T12:37:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's been a week since my last post. I almost forgot again this week. Just been busy here. Getting ready for the move, visiting the gym more often and taking care of Ethan, it's just busy a lot. We've been eating out quite a bit the last week or so, though I am still eating veggie (mostly vegan) and watching what I'm eating out. I went to a Stretch and Balance class at the gym yesterday, it's pretty much like yoga. It's an awesome class and I'll be going again. Tomorrow I'm going to try a spinning class. It looks like fun.

My handmade item is coming along. Didn't get it done in time for the June 2nd cut off, but that's ok. I'm really excited to see how it finishes up. Should be nice! :)

Well, not too much else going on now.

Hello!!

2008-06-28T11:58:00.001-07:00

This is going to be short and sweet. It's just been a busy week. And I don't see an end anytime soon. Too much to do, not enough time. I'll try to get on and do a longer update either later today or tomorrow. I just wanted to get a post up. :)

Quidditch!

2008-06-21T04:19:00.000-07:00

1. At the beginning of the year feast, who is the only person who rudely interrupts Dumbledore during his speech?

b. Professor Umbridge

2. Off what street is the alley where Harry first met Sirius?

c. Magnolia Crescent

3. Tonks’ mother had two sisters, both pure-bloods, and both left on the Black Family Tree. What are their names?

c. Narcissa and Bellatrix

4. What spell are the students studying in McGonalgall’s class when Umbrdige is doing her inspection?

d. The Vanishing Spell

5. Who comes to warn Harry and the rest of Dumbledore’s Army that Umbridge and her group of followers are coming to break up their meeting?

Answer: _____________Dobby__________ (five letters)

6. Who are the members of the Order that met Harry Potter in the Dursely’s house during the summer before his fifth year?

c. Alastor Moody, Nymphadora Tonks, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Elphias Doge, Dedalus Diggle, Remus Lupin, Emmeline Vance, Sturgis Podmore, Hestia Jones

7. Moody used the Disillusionment Charm on Harry.

a. Yes

8. Which of these Death Eaters is Sirius related to?

d. All of these

9. At what age did Sirius leave his home?

Answer: _________16__________ (Number)

10. How many of the original Order members were killed (don’t include those who disappeared)?

b. 8

Picture Scavenger

Post these pictures to your blog. They must either be posted or linked to from your blog in order to receive points.

What was I thinking?

2008-06-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

So, 3 days ago I decided that since I have been eating healthy and exercising that I should eliminate soda from my diet as well. Yes, I thought, giving up caffeine would give me a headache for a day, big deal. Ha! Not just headaches, but I was completely lethargic. No energy, no motivation, nothing. I just wanted to sleep and I felt like crapola. After 2 days of that, I decided now was not the time to break the habit. I've got too much on my plate to be lying around and sleeping as much as possible. This morning after dropping Ryan off at work, E and I went to do a spot of grocery shopping and I have a sweet Pepsi. :) Oh yes, it's been a much better day!

That being said, I'm pretty proud of myself exercise and eating wise. I've been preparing our meals at home almost every night. We've eaten out once last week and once this. For us, that is a small amount. Every other night I've been cooking. I've been making vegetarian meals that are just wonderful! I'm actually using my vegan cookbooks (Vegan with a Vengeance is awesome!), but I still have butter and milk here, so I've been using that as needed. Anyways, it's been a lot of beans and veggies and whole grains. I've also been making Ryan's lunch everyday. I usually try to take a day or two off each week from this and he eats at Subway. For the past 2 weeks, today is the first day he's eaten at Subway. And that is only because I was feeling so crappy and we had to leave extra early this morning. So, I have actually lost a bit of weight without really trying and I am feeling good! Except for those 2 caffeine free days. :)

This weekend I am for sure starting on my handmade item for the swap. I have the fabric and am ready to go! I am also planning on dyeing the yarn this weekend. I'd like to have my package in the mail within the next 10 days. I need to start packing here and time seems to just fly sometimes.

I am also finishing up some knitting for a swap and still have those 2 diapers to finish. They are pinned at least. I did finish all my stuff I am listing for sale, so that is good.

Oh, we signed the lease for our new house. Hooray! It's a bit closer to base and it has a huge yard! I can't wait to not have to walk the dog anymore. :) Plus, both Arty and Ethan will love having the yard to run around in. The house itself is a bit smaller than our apartment, but it's nice. It's the bedrooms that are significantly smaller. But the neighborhood is very nice and the rent is less then we're paying here. We're going to be downsizing as we're packing, which is a good thing. We're overlapping 2 weeks so we'll be able to leisurely move our stuff and only have to use a moving truck for our larger items.

All right, I think I'm going to reformat this computer. It's acting a bit weird and I'm thinking I may have a virus though Norton says no.

Really

2008-06-06T18:55:00.001-07:00

You'd think amid reminding everyone to post in their blogs, I would remember to post in mine! But I almost forgot. We put up a new house quiz this week. It seems to have gone over well and I'm pretty happy about that.

I got a lot accomplished this week, which is great! I'm hoping to get much accomplished this weekend too. I have 2 shower diapers I need to get done and I'm hoping to get started on my handmade item. Plus finish up some knit shorties. It looks like my spinning may have to wait until Monday. Oh yes, I also need to get a small soaker done to stock next week, plus the wipes I am serging. I need to get some yarn dyed too. I have a long crafty to-do list. It all needs to get done within the next 10 days or so because we need to start packing.

We're moving! Our lease isn't up here until August 1st, but we'll be moving into our new place on July 16th. That gives us almost 2 weeks to move everything over. I'm hoping to do a room at a time and unpack as we go. We'll be signing the lease on Monday or Tuesday. Did I mention we'll be renting a house instead of an apartment? The square footage on the house about 140 less than here, but it has a fenced in yard. A HUGE yard. It's in a great area and it's closer to base. Awesome! I know Ethan and Arty will love having a yard to run around in. I plan on starting a garden. Possibly even a clothesline.

Tonight I hand made some whole wheat corn tortillas. They were pretty good, even if they weren't round. Been cooking a lot lately since our extra money is going towards the new place. The security deposit is quite large, plus we'll be overlapping in rent. Not eating out so much is healthier anyways and we've been trying great new vegan and vegetarian dishes.

So, I've really been into spindle spinning lately. I am thisclose to being done with 2 full skeins. I wasn't able to get any done today, but I can't wait to finish those 2 up! Here is a picture of almost all of my spindles.

From left to right: Golding, Butterflygirldesigns (3), Greensleeves Mjolinor, Trixie and a DIY. Not pictured is my Bosworth which I am using to spin up my Spunky Club. Too bad I don't have an on-the-bobbin picture for my wheel. I am working up this funky batt and loving it. I already have one skein done. I don't have a picture of that either. I am slacking with the pictures since I wasn't planning on a big blog post this week.

If you've made it this far into my post, you may have noticed that I am not posting as if I am at Hogwarts. My character blog is a bust, so I'll just post as if to my regular blog. It's better than the 3 line posts I've been posting. I think so anyways. :)

A MeMe

2008-05-30T18:42:00.000-07:00

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?

Oh, 10 years ago. Young and single. Let's see, probably working and partying. I may have had a horse, I can't remember. I had had 2, then took a break and had 1 more for a bit.

2. What are 5 things on my to-do list today?

Since it's 10 pm, this is for tomorrow.
1. Grocery shopping
2. Finish swap/shower diapers
3. Find Snitch!
4. Spin!
5. Relax

3. Snacks I enjoy...

Chocolate is my favorite. I also enjoy popcorn, nuts, muffins, cupcakes, cookies, and cake. Fortunately, I can make some of those somewhat healthy. :)

4. Things I would do if I were a billionaire....

Buy a house. Have a housekeeper and a cook. Get a new car that I really want. Pay off my mom's house. And I guess my brother's house too. Pay off our debt. Take a long vacation to Disney World and stay at the Polynesian Inn.

5. Places I've lived

I've spent most of my life in South Florida. Hollywood, Miami and then West Palm Beach. We moved to WPB when I was about 7 and I lived there until I joined the Navy at 31. Since then, I've lived in San Diego and Jacksonville. Temporarily lived in Great Lakes and San Antonio.

6. Jobs I've had.

I've had a lot of jobs between my first real job at TJ Maxx when I was 16 and my last real job in the Navy at 33. Mostly behind a cash register, but I've worked at warehouses, restaurants, vets office, horse feed store, horse barn, gas station, auto parts store, pharmacy, babysitting....I think that's it. My longest job was at a privately owned Mobil station. I was there for 4 years before I joined the Navy. It was the first time I was able to support myself on just one job, which was nice. It was also my favorite job.

7. Peeps I want to know more about...

Gosh, I hate bothering people with these things and I am such a loner. I don't think I'm going to tag anyone. :)

Quidditch Round 1

2008-05-30T16:28:00.000-07:00

1. Which of Arabella Figg's cats ran out from under the car?

a. Tibbles

2. Which of the following is NOT one of Albus Dumbledore's middle names?

a. Ignatius

3. Which educational decree introduced a High Inquisitor to Hogwarts?

4. Apart from Harry, Ron and Hermione, who was the first person to enter the Hog's Head that showed an interest in Harry's Defence Against the Dark Arts classes?

Neville Longbottom

5. In the first Quidditch match of the year which player attempted to score first?

a. Angelina Johnson

6. What kind of bush does Harry hide behind to listen to the news?

b. A hydrangea bush

7. Why is Mundungus Fletcher disguised as a woman when he witnesses the DA (Dumbledore's Army) meeting in the Hog's Head pub?

b. He was banned from the Hog’s Head pub 20 years ago.

8. When Harry and Cho go on their first date to Madam Puddifoot's in Hogsmeade, what is it decorated with for Valentine's Day?

a. Golden cherubs and red confetti

9. How old is Sturgis Podmore and where does he live?

a. 38 and number 2 Laburnum Gardens Clapham

10. What did Fred and George Weasley do to Montague?

a. Forced him head-first into a Vanishing Cabinet on the first floor.

Picture Scavenger Hunt

Pictures may either be posted to your site OR you can hyper-link to the pictures location, BUT when I visit your site I MUST be able to see or get to the pictures in some way by seeing or clicking. Simply having the words of what the picture is will not work.

Fred and George Weasley (Together)

Hog’s Head Pub

Sirius Black

Mr. Weasley & Harry (Together)

Draco Malfoy

Startling Revelation

2008-05-24T18:28:00.001-07:00

That's what I had a few minutes ago when I realized that though I reminded all my fellow Gryffindors to post in their blogs, I had not done so yet myself.

So, I have figured out what I am making my spoilee, I just need to find and buy the materials. I also know what yarn I will be buying. Just need to find a pattern now.

This past week and next, I have severals days off from Hogwarts to visit with my mom. I still have to attend to my Prefect duties, so it's been busy and I have been slacking a bit. But we're having a great time visiting. :)

It's the Weekend!

2008-05-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh... the weekend! Time to kick back and relax after a busy first week at school. Well, to semi-relax, as I have duties to attend to over the weekend and am just getting ready to start them. :) Next week there will be homework and Quidditch practice!

Almost time!

2008-05-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Well, this is proving to be a busy term already! Who knew being a Prefect involved more work? :) I finished sending all the owls out today, Hooray! It's been a busy weekend for all the owls.

I have my new spoilee. She's in Hufflepuff. I have already bought my stitch markers! I couldn't resist them. I can't wait to get the sign up info and get moving on the rest of the swap.

I think this is going to be a great term!

A New Term

2008-05-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for our new term to start! This term I made Prefect! How exciting! I'm a bit nervous about my new responsibility, but also excited and looking forward to the term.

There is still room for others to enroll.

Just click on the logo to join!!!