~ New day + New Season = New Me ~

 

Life has been full of numerous changes since April. I finished the last semester not so great but I'm not complaining for I did finish. I took a trip to my hometown, Richmond, for a much needed summer vacation however, I'm still here. After spending the summer visiting and exploring, I was given the responsibility of guardianship for my grandma. In the process, it required that I spend a large amount of time taking care of paperwork and other matters. She is finally in a better situation though there is still more to be done and now I've been given the privilege of being my grandpa's guardian. I now live w/him and will be taking care of his matters to ensure he is getting the assistance he needs. If anyone had told me that I would not be sitting in NY, working on my degree and enjoying city life this fall, I would have called them a liar.

One thing this season is teaching is how to completely rely on my Lord. I've been unemployed since May and have not been successful in obtaining a position that works for my new lifestyle. I did manage to get a part time job but it was inconvenient due to the hour commute. However, I'm not moved and I'm resting in the fact that God is in control. I've been able to spend a considerable amount of time at my home church which has blessed me more than I can truly express. Seeing, being surrounded and encouraged by so many I've known most of my adult life has truly been a blessing. I miss my children especially my grandson, however, I know that this is all temporary and maybe one day I'll get to NY for school or just a vacation. For now I'm learning to enjoy where I am, be who I am for this season and allow it to develop my character.

On the knitting front ~ I've not been very active at all. I'm still working on the same pair of ankle socks that I started 7 months ago. Can't seem to get motivated on them. However, grandpa and I checked out a lys here in Richmond and I got him some Rowan Tweed for a beanie and some sock yarn for my grandson. The beanie is for grandpa and he is excited. I'll post pics later today of the yarn and link the pattern I'm planning to use. Now must return to the kitchen and make some tuna salad. 

Have an awesome day all!

Taking time to be ME!

Its been a great week though it has had its ups and downs. Learning how to pace myself and avoid unnecessary stressors so that I can live a healthier lifestyle. Need to work on stress management in order to be successful in other areas of my life, for I'm finding stress can cause me to miss out of some vital things and not do anything at all. School is going well and added Humanities 2 & French 2 to my class schedule. Have been enjoying my books and looking forward to the next 7wks, it will be busy for sure.

On the knitting front, my dishcloth is almost done and its yummy. It feels too good to use but I must. Purchased the lovely 2nd skein of Malabrigo I need to make my grandson's Owlie hat and a new lovely scarf. Will be taking a knitting class on Wednesday to make the Calligraphy Fringed Scarf but w/o the fringe. Looking forward to sitting home knitting, cross-stitching and enjoying the wonder of the fall weather.

Off to make plans for upcoming meals, birthday, exercise and homework. Hope you all had a great day!

~ Oct 15th ~

New day, new beginnings and a new outlook on life. Yup, thats for me and I'm lovin' it. I'm reassessing who I am, where I'm going and what's most important in my life. Yesterday was a very long day that started at 6:30a and ended at 11:30p. I've started my new bedtime of 10:30p during the week and am trying to find the right wakeup time. I don't think 6:30a is it haahaa. By 9p, I was ready for bed and no where near home. The purpose of these time changes is to get ready to become a full time student and transition into teaching. I'm looking forward to the new endeavors, however, discovered being a night owl and sleeping in late isn't going to help me. Hopefully, in another month I've developed the habit and will be early to bed and early to rise which supposedly makes one healthy, wealthy and wise.

On the knitting front ~ I'm working on a lovely Garterlac Dishcloth in Sugar n Creme's landscape. Its so soft and pretty, pics soon. I've enjoyed allowing myself the freedom to do the things I love again. I'm scheduling time to do these things so that I'm no longer deprived or stressed by life. Knew I missed my joys but didn't truly realize how much until I held that yarn and felt my body relax. Now to make beautiful things for my grandson...I've got my mojo back. LOL

Off to finish my day at work and prepare my Art History paper. Have an awesome day!

~ Simple Woman's Daybook Oct 12th ~

Outside my window...
lovely cloud formation leftover from last night's storm

I am thinking...
of all the things I must do today

I am thankful...
for this beautiful day

In the kitchen...
hmm...nothing at the moment but potato soup n biscuits sound good

I am wearing...
my favorite khaki skirt, black top and camo chucks ;)

I am creating...
Owlie Sleep Sack for an expecting friend

I am going...
take a nap when I leave work

I am wondering...
how to skip homework and play all day

I am reading...
CMs Volume 6 & my GEO textbook

I am praying...
for peace and jobs for friends

I am looking forward to...
to a time of rest

I am hearing...
classical music in the background

Around the house...
silence for no one is home

I am pondering...
my life ~ next steps

One of my favorite things...
sitting quietly in the sunshine

A few plans for the rest of the week:
work, taking an exam and visiting the museum

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing...

Been a long time

Wow, its been 6 months since I last posted. Yikes, I think I'm a little too busy for my own good. Its ok, I'm enjoying the ride and looking forward to resting when its all over.

Update ~ I'm working on completing my associates degree in liberal arts. I'm busy searching for the university that will be a perfect fit for me so that I can earn my bachelors. I've been dreaming of this day for a long time and I'm can't believe I'm here. I took a campus tour last week to a school I just knew was the one and it turns out I didn't feel at home there so I'm on the search. I feel like a teenager who has been set loose to pursue all they can be :D

Life is really busy to include me becoming a grandmere this coming January. I can't wait to meet my grandson. It truly will be a new experience for me and my Riley. January will be my new beginnings for this reason and so many more to include possibly moving onto the next level in my education.

On the knitting front ~ I've finished several little projects and need to get back into knitting. I've allowed the busyness of working 2 part time jobs and school to take away my stress reliever. I'm surrounded by several expecting mothers so that should be motivation enough to make some things lol. I'll post pics soon of my FOs to include the precious Owlie Sleep Sack I made for my grandson.

Time to get back to planning ~ I start 2 new classes on Monday and will start a new CM discussion, so need to tweak my schedule for these and my knitting.

Have an awesome wednesday!

Hello world ;)

Its been 2 weeks since my last post and I'm doing well. Enjoyed a relatively quiet spring break that was filled with lots of sleep, knitting, making new friends and simply doing nothing. Had plans to take a trip, to go shopping and all that but ended up staying home. It turns out that it was one of the best decisions I'd made in a long time.

No new progress on my move since I've been taking everything a little slower than before. I have been spending time with friends and myself contemplating what it is I want along with doing my school work. I've managed to get school under control and feel a little more confident about finishing up this semester. Started a new class ~ American Government and Politics, not really liking the textbook but it is rather interesting. Voice lessons improved a little since I rested my vocal cords but still need to learn how to do breathing and warm up techniques. No worries, I'll get a handle on it in time. Its only been 8 years since I last sang lol.

On the knitting front, I've planned 6 new projects and started on the socks but unfortunately had to frog them. The pattern I'd chosen was Yarn Harlot's Earl Grey Socks which has a lovely cable down both sides but the yarn I've chosen is too busy. So tonight I'll cast on for a simple pair of men socks that will compliment the varigation of blacks/greys. I'm making birthday gifts ~ pair of men socks, a hat, a pr of hand warmers, dishcloth & towel set. I'll be keeping busy for the next few weeks along w/homework.

Well back to work for me. Hope you all are doing well and enjoying the first weeks of spring. ;D

Been a long time

Well, I've been through some mess that only I can get myself into. I've strayed far from God's perfect will and now starting to see what is so not right about my life. However, the good news is, God is forgiving, loving and more than able and willing to help me get my act together.

There are so many wonderful things He's doing in my life right now. There are amazing people He has allowed to be a part of and there are those He has seen fit to remove. I'm on an adventure and I can't wait to see what's next. I know its going to be awesome because I serve an awesome God.

Now to apply for jobs and school where He has seen fit to move me. I was scared but now I'm excited. Let the adventure begin. ;D

Jan 8th

Look at me slacking already lol. Its been a very good week overall. I'm more peaceful, calm and simply enjoying where I am in my life. School started yesterday and I'm so excited. Heehee, I'm such an overachiever and nerd it ain't even funny. Its been interesting and I've wondered how I'd spend my days once my season of homeschooling was over. Now I know and its totally awesome.

This semester I'm taking the following:

Computer Concepts ~ 1st 8wks course ~ one I can teach in my sleep lol

Physical Science ~ 2nd 8wks course

French 1

Fundamentals of Music ~ my fun class

Voice Lessons

College Algebra

Purchased my books and spent a whooping $400 but its good, Uncle Sam paid for it..thanks big guy. I'm looking forward to this semester, gearing up for the transfer to OSU. Starting to give thought to where I want to teach when I'm done. East coast is calling me but I'm thinking west coast because I've never been and it would be an adventure. We shall see and whatever the future holds, I know that I'll enjoy every single moment of it.

On the knitting front...my OSU scarf is not moving along at all. Its an easy pattern I've done several times but the author is right it doesn't go very fast on large needles lol. I just need to sit down and watch a movie or listen to a book so I can get 'er done ;). Need to pick a project for sock yarn kal and need to finish socks for my friend in NYC. I like being busy and I like having things to do w/my hands and mind. I'm thinking 2011 is going to be an excellent year for me.

Have an awesome day! ;)

Jan 4th

Yesterday, apparently wasn't very eventful since I didn't post. Today wasn't either. I spent time cleaning my room which I'd neglected for almost 3wks. Did a little planning for school and organize my coupon piles to be clipped but really didn't do much but sleep. Work was smooth which was better than yesterday. I've already gotten ready for bed and will turn off the lights shortly.

Feeling accomplished, complete and content. Not concerned about one thing and it feels absolutely wonderful. No knitting today and can't find my needle bag. Hopefully will locate it tmorrow.

Well, off to sleep now....more tomorrow ;)

Jan 2nd

Its been a great weekend. I've been housesitting and have taken the time to rejuvenate. The art of simply being is marvelous. I've birdwatched, spent time gazing at the lake and reading. I've even gotten in some knitting and watched several of my favorite tv shows.

In preparation for returning to work and school, I've started working on a daily schedule and trying to figure out a menu plan for 1 or maybe 2 so I've leftovers for lunch. Its harder than it appears for I'm so use to making dinner for 5+. I'm almost completely registered for school which is going to be a heavy load this year being that I will be attending 2 schools while working 2 pt jobs. I've decided that my social life must cease for now and focus on moving forward w/my career. I can't wait to return to the classroom and it would give me the freedom to travel and have a decent social life. So the sacrifice now is worth it. Also by cutting back my social side, I can spend time on developing me so I can be all that I'm designed to be.

Knitting...my Stashalong group has started up for the new year. I've posted updates and I've planned our first kal within a kal. Its called "not just for socks," which uses sock yarn to create whatever you desire. Though sock yarn is not consider stash, it still deserves to be reduced so we can buy more. lol

That's all for now. Going to continue to relax, listening to music and playing online games. May start listening to my audio book "Eyre Affair," which I've read but want to refresh before reading the remainder of the series. Looking forward to an awesome week w/my new plans. I'm excited and can't wait.

Be blessed!

Life is good

Its been a busy week already and its only Tuesday lol. Enjoying the activity though and the desire to get my life back to some of the normalcy it once had. Been dealing w/allergy and sinus symptoms to the point of having laryngitis. Starting to feel better but realize I'll prolly be taking some decongestants for the rest of winter so I don't get a sinus infection like last year.

On the knitting front, started my scarf using 10s but not sure I'm liking the look or the feel. Its rather tight and I really want a more loose. Will prolly frog it and start again w/13s or 15s. Planning some socks since I've a ton of sock yarn that is calling my name. Just checked out a new sock book at the library and can't wait to take time to look through it. Its call Country Weekend Socks by Madeline Weston.

Well, back to work and more later. Have a great one!

~ Merry Christmas ~

Wishing you and yours a blessed and peaceful Christmas!

Time for change

I've been MIA for so long and I know its my own fault. I've allowed school and work to consume my every minute long w/being out late some nights with the crazy people in my life. However, its time to change. I need a fresh outlook, need a new schedule and system of order and I think my blog needs a new look too. Not sure what it will be but I'm thinking brighter, cheerier and definitely updated regularly by me. I can update again from my phone so I will be doing so.

Nothing new on the knitting scene but plans are forming for Christmas presents. No new books read but have a list. Did watch "The Great Game" the new BBC Sherlock series...loved it! Need to starting cooking and baking more instead of eating out so will try to do my weekly menus again even though are for one lol. Still getting use to this empty nest and living by myself but I'm hanging in there. My roommate and her kids are good people and keep me company when I need it.

Well off to look at new blog skins and create a list of things I want to do in 2011. Have a great evening.

Spring in here

Another month has sailed by but not without leaving its mark. Its been very eventful, good and bad though I keep my head up and a smile on my face. Things are starting to calm down into a normal routine now but I believe I've got a ways to go still. So for a quick update on what has been going on round my neck of the woods this past month:

Attended some amazing concerts; wrecked my Explorer ~ its totalled; purchased an '04 Ford Mustang, 40th anniversary edition w/pony package (pic above); finishing up my first semester but biology and I are not friends lol; still working 2 jobs anywhere from 30 to 50 hrs a week; made some new incredibly amazing friends; found out I've had a sinus infection and fluid on my ears for 2 months; and got to go knitting for a little while a few weeks ago ;D

Life has thrown me some major curve balls but you know it is helping to shape me into the woman I desire to be so I'm not gonna complain or give up. The next 30 days will be awesome ~ concerts, trip to NYC, knitting and more time spent w/my wonderful family and friends. Life is good!

Separation, Black holes and College

So life hasn't gotten back to normal. No matter how hard I try I'm having some difficulties bouncing back. So I'm sure most of you would appreciate an update but its not much to share and definitely not much thats wonderful lol.

I've not knitted in almost 6mos which is a real shame. I'd love to knit, have several projects that look wonderful to get started but I've no motivation and now no time. Its been almost 6mos since my husband and I separated. The kiddos do live w/me but for the most part I'm almost living alone. Time sure does fly when you are too busy to stop and look at it. Da Boy is 17yos now and a senior ~ when did that happen. The girls are grown, so they come and go as they please but do check in every once in awhile. ;D

I've done something for me, something that I was suppose to do 7 years ago when we moved to OK ~ I'm back in school. I'm working toward my bachelors so that I can return to the classroom. My passion to be a teacher again has finally motivated me enough to register and I got accepted ~ yeah me! Its been almost 5 weeks now and its kicking my butt but I love every single minute of it. The kiddos have been so supportive and my friends, though some of the locals have been a hindrance in their loving way, have been a huge blessing and support. Its tough and I still work 2 jobs so my life has become a rollercoaster ride that never ends. Some days start at 8a and don't end til 1a and unfortunately, I've been sick on and off for the past 2months which really makes for an interesting day.

However, looking at all this and knowing its only going to get busier, I've got so much to be thankful for that I'm not gonna complain or feel like I've been neglected or anything. Yes, I'm still here and need to check in more. I also need to find those missing packages in the black hole of my livingroom ~ still haven't unpacked and I've been there since October heehee. Life is very good and I'm fortunate and grateful.

I'll try to update more now that I've had to purchase a laptop for school. I definitely miss reading and commenting on all my friends blogs and being apart of cyberspace, but this too shall pass and I will once again be among the lovely knitting, reading, swapping and blogging circles.

Have a great week!

~ Lost in 2009 ~

As you can tell by my last post of October 9th ~ life has been outta control. Its still not totally back to normal yet either though I've been working on getting it back on track. Its been a very interesting 4mos of change and I'm still not sure its over. I've not been knitting, have failed to keep up with my friends and even have a few swap packages that have disappeared among the moving boxes.

In the past quarter ~ I've moved, separated from my husband, lost valuable possessions including my hair lol, not been motivated to do anything, work 7days a week and wondering where does all this lead. I will say I've not lost my faith nor am I willing to give up. Though the nights are long and sometimes sleepless, I'm am confident that "this too shall pass." I just wish it hurry up. I will try to be more present in the future but please bare w/me as I continue to transition to a life of single motherhood.

So on this 2nd day of the New Year ~ I resolve to be whom I've been created to be and thats all.

~ Happy New Year ~

~ 2009 Reading List ~

Home Education
Winter Study
Among the Mad
Guardian of the Horizon
The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday
Breaking Controlling Powers
Philosophy of Education
Formation of Character
The Hidden Art of Homemaking

Wow ~ its gonna get hot

Current Conditions
Fair ~ 81°F
Location Tulsa, OK * Fair

Today ~ 100° / 74°

Tomorrow ~ 103° / 76°

Friday ~ 102° / 78°
*Severe weather alert

I'm thinking I need to go buy more fans and stay inside. Its going to be way too hot to do anything.

Absolutely fabulous

Osage Beach, MO

thats how I describe my day. ;) I'm not tired and I'm excited about that. I've decided to slow down and take time to do things at a pace that is foreign to me though not unknown. As I get older, I'm finding that I'm liking the slower side to life and its much more enjoyable than I'd ever imagined.

No knitting still but thats ok, there's plenty of time for that. I worked my new job and loved it. LOL I'm a nerd what can I say, nerds love libraries. heehee ;) I'm looking forward to tomorrow nite and seeing how I feel about working both jobs. I'm hoping for the best but I'll let you know.

I'm off to bed now, reading the new issue of All You and looking at this week's coupons ~ haven't done that in forever. More tomorrow.

~ Menu Plan Monday 6/22 ~

So I've not participated in this for a very long time but I need to get my life back in order and this is a great way to start. My plans are simple and meager, using whats already in the pantry. I really need to clean out the fridge and freezer so the next few menus will reflect such. I will be taking a look a some of the great websites that Organized Junkie has posted, because I need to simplify my kitchen and get some fresh veggies in the house. I would love to try my hand at canning too but just don't seem to have the time. I think freezing will be part of my weekly plan soon, more on that as I learn.

Got to go to work now, so here is my Menu for this week.

Mon ~ Leftovers
Tues ~ Tuna & rice
Wed ~ Pancakes & sausage
Thu ~ Veggie nite: cornbread, greens & rice
Fri ~ Burgers & fries
Sat ~ Tuna salad
Sun ~ Baked Chicken, steamed veggies & rolls

Won't you join us, click here, and tell us what you are planning for this week!