Let's Get Ready to Ramble...

I left!

2007-11-18T22:00:00.000-05:00

I decided to move to Wordpress... update your bookmark! My blog resides here now. See ya there!

Reality check... check!

2007-10-28T16:32:00.000-04:00

I've learned so much about keeping my finances straight from working at a credit union the last couple of months... it's unbelievable. Just by seeing other people go through economic hardship because of stupid credit card debt and multiple loans. One does not have to be a millionaire to be debt free or at least as close to it as possible. It's about being smart and having your priorities clear.

I have a story... As trivial as it may sound, this event made me realize that I do not want to live with the debt burden. So I went to a department store to buy a couple blouses for work. Of course, I had to go look around... and of course, I saw a coat that caught my attention. It was $260 and I do not need a new coat. I loved it... I wanted to take it home with me... I tried it on... it made me feel beautiful. I do not need a new coat. I do not have $260. What to do? What to do? Maybe I can put it on lay away, I thought. I asked the hubster, my wonderful hubster. He said no. Rarely he says no to me. I was disappointed. I cried... I wanted it. But then it hit me... this is exactly why we have debt. Lack of control, compulsion, numbness of the senses, material desire, I believe it is called just being plain irresponsible with your life. I'm not saying it is wrong to have things... we need things, but we have to be cautious. Wanting stuff can become my doom. We talked about it. Debt can get unbearable in the blink of an eye. We are starting our life together. We are lucky... we own a house... we own a car... we have jobs. We have a future waiting for us. We are growing up... learning to be adults. We took matters into our own hands. We got rid of our credit cards and decided on a way to pay off our debt. We can sleep at night. Nothing is for sure in this life but now I know that there's stuff I can do to help me live it fully.

Eye Candy Friday

2007-09-14T12:23:00.000-04:00

My first!!!

He's gone! =(

2007-09-04T17:51:00.000-04:00

How sad! My friend Dave came over to visit and now he's on his way back home. I didn't want him to leave us so soon. He came last Saturday. I'm so glad he was our home's first visitor! We had a great relaxing time. Of course, Yei and Seb also spent some time with us. The hubster too! There was some hanging out of this kind (with dancing and everything)...

and of this kind...

We went to the mini golf and the zoo and pretended to do something other than eat, drink, sleep, and talk (not necessarily that order). Although we had a dashing (that is the hubster's influence... full force) time, we missed the other members of the gang that couldn't come. I know we'll get together soon and have a proper house drinking party.

$0.50 Movie Day

2007-08-28T20:38:00.000-04:00

We are lucky. We like going to the movies... we love going to the movies. We have a cheap movie theater around. Usually you pay $1 to $2 (depending on the day) for a movie. It's true that the movies showing there are gone from other theaters but they are not 5 year old either. On Mondays it's even cheaper... you pay 50 cents if you buy 3 or more tickets. Yesterday we went to watch Knocked Up. It was very funny!!! Loved the jokes. And come on... any movie for 50 cents and the theater experience is unbeatable.

Last night we set up our alarm clock for 4AM so we could see the eclipse. Guess who was too tired and didn't want to see the eclipse after the alarm went off? Yep... me. It was my idea you know. Ohh well!

Jane Rocks!!!

2007-08-27T10:04:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. It sent me on an emotional roller coaster. I went from curious to anxious to surprise to angry to sad to incredulous to disappointed to more disappointed to completely heart broken to redemption to optimism. It was great. Who knew that an old novel would get my attention and my senses to such an extreme. Well... it is called Sense and Sensibility because of something, right? Jane Austen has a new groupie.

Next stop... finishing The Road by Cormac McCarthy. I didn't know it was going to be such an existentialist book... so it has taken me longer than expected. I'm just not into that theme right now.

I also started The Witching Hour by Anne Rice a while back. That one I'll have to start over. Too many details... but still really good. I already read all the Vampire Chronicles books that came before The Witching Hour. After The Vampire Armand, there are some links to the Mayfair Witches series introduced and I wanted to read about it before following the Vampire Chronicles series.

After The Road... I have to do it... Pride and Prejudice is calling my name.

2007-08-23T12:22:00.000-04:00

I had a great weekend. Last Sunday we just chilled here and our friend Nate came to visit and play some Drink & Scrabble. Of course I used the waiting time between words to knit a little bit on my Simple Trekking Socks. And of course I didn't win any of the games. That's what happen when you decide to play a word game with a English teacher.

Then on Monday we went to U of B for a concert. What a concert!!! Dream Theater is amazing live!!! We had a great time there and driving too. Ohh I almost forgot, I also went to the new location of Village Yarn on East Rochester. Cute store and lots of space. I'll definitely go back.

Yesterday, I went shopping for work clothes. I found everything I needed and great prices. But then today I got a call from my employer. I'm not starting on Aug. 27. I'm starting on Sep. 10. Two more weeks. That was a bummer. I'll live.

Regrouping

2007-08-18T18:12:00.000-04:00

Hello to those who might read this. I've been everywhere doing not much really, so you would think I would have time to blog. I just was in one of those moods where you have a lot in your mind (good for blogging) but not wanting to do anything with it (bad for blogging and all creative endeavours). But I'm back. I've said this so many times before that I'm not sure how long this energy boost will last. I guess I just need to let it all out and not think too much about it. I really want to blog... I need to express myself... yeah, I should do it... I'm sure it's going to help me a lot.

This summer has been an eventful one. Let me start just by saying that the hubster and I are first time homeowners and we love it!!! We have an amazing, almost 100 years old beautiful house that we adore. Of course it needs some lovin' but we love it all the same. Here it is!!!

5 days after moving to the house we took a little 3 weeks long vacation to Puerto Rico. We had a wonderful time with our family. But by the end of the trip we were missing our comfy bed a lot and we also wanted to go home and enjoy our house for a while. I miss my family already. You can't win when you are so comfortable where you live but at the same time your family is so far away.

I have a new job too. I'm very excited about trying something else other than science. Don't take me wrong, I still love science... however, it is not the right career for me right now. So you ask what are you doing now? Well, I'm giving banking a try. I've only heard good things about the bank (that's always good), so I'm looking forward to starting (Aug. 27 is first day of training).

After moving day (let's make that moving weeks) I haven't done much in the crafting front. Only a couple stitches here and there that don't account for much. But I have too many WIPS; I really want to take care of those before starting anything else. I need to take pictures to show here and to put in Ravelry (which by the way it's AMAZING!!!).

I read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. I feel JK Rowling gave us some closure but I'm sad it had to end. It is such a good series. I think she took the safe road (in terms of the story events) but at the same time I'm still amazed by the fact that she put it all together so well. It reads so smoothly and flows very well. Overall, awesome ending to the series.

That's it for now... I hope to be back with some pictures. See ya soon...

And we're off!

2007-04-03T01:14:00.000-04:00

I know I said I was going to have a WIP Wednesday... sorry about that... it'll come... I just need to take pics of my gazillion WIPs.

GREAT NEWS! Today our mortgage broker called us and we're pre-approved!!! For a house mortgage that is! That means that we can start looking for a house. It's all starting to get to me. The hubster and I are very excited to say the least. Will keep you posted!!!

Tata for now...

Thrifting

2007-03-29T18:27:00.000-04:00

I visited this new (at least for me) blog (and of course SouleMama's) that discusses thrifting and the philosophy behind it. I like the idea of finding treasures at really good prices... so I went to my local Goodwill. To my surprise I found an assortment of Target furniture marked down... way down. I got this beautiful side table and get this...

I payed 80% less than the original price right now ($150) at Target!!! Go Me!!!

I also got a set of 4 glasses (for $4)... each of them has a dancing couple (after some research I think they are square dancing)and 2 lines of what to me looks like a cowboy song. I don't have a picture but I'm trying to find more information about them. I didn't see any marks or brand, so I'll keep looking.

I found a cross stitch kit of some kitties playing with red yarn balls and the words "You're among friends" ($1).

The kit is from the "Learn a Craft" Collection of Dimensions Inc. and is designed by Daniel Gorman (you can really find anything at eBay, even this kind of information).

You can't go wrong with this prices. And so I started thrifting... I'm sure there'll be more to come.

This and that

2007-03-27T23:28:00.000-04:00

Helloooooo Spartans!!! I loved the movie... the film was beautiful and the 300 spartans too. It was very entertaining (the hubster agrees). After a long day at work, there's nothing better than a great movie at the IMAX with the hubster and good friends.

By the way, work is going great. I'm feeling very good about it. This past month has been a lot of fun. It might be a transition job but I'm trying to learn as much as possible and getting the most out of it. Ohh... I guess I should mention I'm working for Target. This is my first real job, my first retail job... and I'm glad I'm working for them. I wasn't sure if I was going to get used to being around so much people but I'm enjoying it.

I finished the third book in the Artemis Fowl Series: The Eternity Code. It was so clever!!! The first book is clever and innovative, new fantasy I would say. The third book is even more so than the first. The second book was just a "bridge" between the first and third, the story was somewhat slower too. Of course, I already started book 4: The Opal Deception. This is a great series for everybody, lots of fun.

Today was our first meeting with our realtor!!! Yep, we're planning to buy a house. This phase of my life is so new that I can't really explain how I feel. I'm just grateful that I have the hubster, that we're on the same page, and are looking forward to similar things. I can't wait to start this process!

Tomorrow WIP Wednesday where I show all my work-in-progress!

Being aware

2007-03-08T18:49:00.000-05:00

I love Blueprint magazine! To the end of the 3rd issue (March/April) there is an article/list titled 100 Reasons why you should get rid of it... IT being stuff, clutter, junk.... even debt. It got me thinking. A lot of us really desire to have things. I'm working on changing this attitude on myself. I don't need all the things that I have and still wish I had some more stuff. That is not right.

When you start spoiling yourself and getting stuff by using money that you don't have (aka credit cards), it's time to do something about it. I am taking control. It's not easy, but I realized and understood that the change is going to make me a better person. I will get rid (sell, donate, toss) of things that I don't use... I need to do it. My credit cards are out of my wallet. No more window shopping carrying credit cards. If I don't have the money I can't buy anything, thus helping me control the amount of stuff I already own and also my debt.

Growing up is tough... I'm just happy I can realize this things and take control of my life now.

Moving forward

2007-03-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

I'm well... I'm happy... I have a job... I have a driver's permit (I've been scared of driving for a long time, but realized that it was a total necessity)! This year so far has been a huge change in my life. I stood up for myself, stepped out of science and am trying something new. It's so much fun!

Crafting front:
Knitting - Mason-Dixon Ballband dishcloth started.
Crochet - Almost done with the Rising Sun Doily.
Quilting - Almost done with the quilt top.

Will show pics soon!

I missed it!

2007-02-12T06:35:00.000-05:00

I missed the Grammys... *sigh* Congrats Mr. Ricardo Arjona on a well deserved award. I'm happy, that means people are paying attention and actually getting your point. I'm not too happy about the tie, but I'll live.

Probably you don't care but I missed the show because we got this! It's great fun let me tell you.

Super... What?

2007-02-04T19:06:00.000-05:00

Oh Yeah! Super Bowl Sunday Baby! I don't know much about football but you don't need to know anything to see how handsome Mr. Peyton Manning is.

Anyway...

Go Colts!!! Go Bears!!!

I'm Back!!!

2007-02-01T23:02:00.000-05:00

Hey Friends!!!

I took a long long long break, but I'm still alive. After the defense I went home for holiday vacation and had the greatest time. I ate a lot! Want to see how we roast a whole pig!?!? Here you have it...

This is an important part of our traditional holiday food! It was out of this world good. So other than food, I had enough time to share with my family and relax. Oh! I also went to the beach (on December!).

When I came back, my thesis was waiting for me to be modified and submitted. The deadline was January 16, 2007. So, it is over now. I have a real MS although I'm still waiting for my diploma. But I'm happy... it is over.

Now I'm looking for a job. It's so difficult being a grown up!!! Who knew!?!?!

In the knitting front I finished a calorimetry. I know! Another one!!! They've been popping out everywhere but I have to make one. I finished it in one night... couldn't put it down. You know, they say you shouldn't leave your knitting when you're in the middle of a row... so I'm good at following instructions. Hehe! Here it is...

I used a lonely ball of Knit Picks Andean Treasure yarn in Embers Heathers. I love the color and the yarn is so soft and lofty... hmmm... dreamy! I also started a toe-up sock following Wendy's pattern. I don't have a lot of experience with socks, so we'll see how it comes out. And that's it!

At the same time I started quilting... or I started trying to quilt. Like with crochet and knitting, I'm completely self taught. I'm reading books and magazines and everything I can put my hands on about quilting. I'm having a great time with it. I'm piecing the top now... trying to put it together as perfect as possible. I'll show the final product when I'm done.

I mentioned before the Sampler but didn't have posted pics of the goodies I got. Here they are in all their glory. These are two samplers. The first pic is the November Sampler and the second is the December/January Sampler.

I love the Sampler... it's a great opportunity for you to get unexpected (you don't know what's inside until you open the package) mail and also learn about the many wonderful and blooming indie stores around. I'm not going to mention all the stuff I got but if you want more details send me an email!

Fun and Excitement!

2006-12-17T19:48:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow morning I'm going home to Puerto Rico for 3 weeks. I'll try to get internet service there so I can keep posting and visiting all my favorite forums. If you don't see me around... I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!! Take care everybody!

Best Wishes!

To whom it may concern,

2006-12-12T14:03:00.001-05:00

I PASSED MY EXAM!!!
OHH, HAPPY DAY!!!

If I had a life...

2006-12-04T15:34:00.000-05:00

I can't wait to be done with all these stuff. I need to have a life again.

If your life were a soundtrack, what would the music be?

Here's how it works:
1. Open your library (iTunes, winamp, media player, iPod)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. New question-- press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool

Opening Credits:
"Opium" Marcy Playground

Waking Up:
"I Get Around" The Beach Boys

First Day at School:
"Magics in the Makeup" No Doubt

Falling in Love:
"Eyesight to the Blind" Aerosmith

Breaking Up:
"Lejos" ("Far") Icaro Azul

Prom:
"Sammy Davis City" Brian Setzer Orchestra

Life's Okay:
"Superman" Ra

Mental Breakdown:
"Devour" Disturbed

Driving:
"What Am I to You" Norah Jones

Flashback:
"Boot Camp" Soundgarden

Getting Back Together:
"Mil Canciones" ("A Thousand Songs") Fiel a la Vega

Wedding:
"Can't Buy Me Love" The Beatles

Birth of Child:
"Hole in my Soul" Aerosmith

Final Battle:
"Politik" Coldplay

Death Scene:
"Olvidarte" ("To Forget You") Ricardo Arjona

Funeral Song:
"Get A Grip" Aerosmith

End Credits:
"Are We the Waiting" Green Day

Reviewing...

2006-12-04T15:01:00.000-05:00

I had some things that I wanted to write about but couldn't find a moment to do it. So here it is... a couple weeks reviewed in a couple sentences.

1. Nov. 18, '06 - Went to the theater to watch Rent (the musical). It was fabulous. Totally loved it. It is one of those stories that captivate you in a way that I can't describe. I saw the movie first and fell in love with the story and the music. When you go to the theater it felt so real it was scary (but scary good). I've learned so much from it. Thank you Mr. Jonathan Larson for giving us such an inspirational musical. The hubster has the complete soundtrack stuck in his head... go see it!

2. Nov. 22-26, '06 - Went to NYC. We always have a blast there. We had a lovely Thanksgiving Day and weekend. We were able to have some down time with family and that's always good.
2A. Nov. 24, '06 - Arjona's concert was AMAZING! And getting together with friends completed a great weekend. Love ya, guys!

3. Nov. 27, '06 - Handed in my thesis! Started working on my presentation.

4. Nov. 30, '06 - Practice my talk for my thesis defense in front of my lab mates. That went OK.

Those were the highlights of the past 2 weeks. Coming soon...
1. Dec. 12, '06 - Thesis Defense Day. (Send good vibes my way, pretty please!)

2. Dec. 18, '06 - I'm going home to spend the Holidays with my family!!! The hubster will join me a week later. I can't wait.

Goin' to the city...

2006-11-21T11:28:00.000-05:00

Gonna eat me a lot of turkey! Hehe... that was lame.

Anyway, I'm spending Thanksgiving in NYC with the hubster's mom (and her boyfriend) and brother. Then on Friday, we're meeting with our friends for a concert. Good times!!! I can't wait to see them.

Have a great Thanksgiving Day!!!

ETA.
I'm almost done with my thesis. Almost.

Where was I?

2006-11-08T07:45:00.000-05:00

I've been writing... trying to write a thesis. Ohh Goodnes Gracious! To me it is so difficult... I don't think I'm good at technical writing at all. I'm not done yet... and that makes me sad. I want to be done with it. This is only for a Masters Degree... I don't want to even think about what would it be a Ph.D. one like. Something inside me says that I will pass, but who really knows. I also have to put together a presentation, but I'm much more comfortable with that. Not the speaking part... but the putting the presentation together part. We'll see what comes out of this.

In the crafty front - Not much, as expected... see above for reason! I'm only working on a special doily for my mom and that's it. I work on it a couple stitches at a time... so hopefully I'll be able to finish it before going home.

Ta ta for now...

Brea Bag

2006-10-26T21:35:00.000-04:00

Wendy - You asked and here it is! I still need to get a handle.

I think I mentioned it before... I used Araucania wool that I got from my LYS on sale. I'm very happy with the outcome. You can barely see the cables on the picture... but they are lovely in person. I had a lot of fun making this bag! I made it as part of a KAL on Fiber Freaks.

The Sampler

2006-10-26T18:30:00.000-04:00

In approx. half hour the second opportunity to get the sampler will come (it's 6:30PM). The sampler is just a package of samples from indie companies. Go to their website to get more info. From what I've seen it looks like fun and I love surprises. Go check it out (if not this time maybe soon you can get one)! I will post about it when I receive mine.

Rolling with the Homies

2006-10-23T06:30:00.000-04:00

This was a relaxing weekend. On Saturday, we took our time and caught up with laundry and cleaned the apartment. Yesterday, I didn't do much either. It was nice to be able to just roam around the house and not have to think.

But today is Monday and, here I am, back to thinking.

Last night, I started the Rising Sun Doily. That's going to be part of my mom's Christmas present. I wanted to make the Ripe Wheat Doily but didn't have enough thread in my stash for it. Which brings me to my next point... I need a bigger stash. Last post I said I was going to finish Brea bag and start a pair of socks. Well... I lied... but it wasn't on purpose. I want to finish Brea bag (just wasn't in the mood for seaming it) and I, also, want to begin a sock (just don't have the Socks that Rock yarn that I want or any at all, for that matter (I'm dying to try that yarn! I've heard so much about it.)). I need a bigger stash. My "collection" of yarn is not that big. So when I have a project idea, most probable, I don't have the yarn necessary for it. Anyway, I'll have to live with it... always looking into eBay (check this site out... I read about it on Needle Exchange) for great deals!

Have a great day!

Stuff :: Unknown
Block :: Ice
Ingredient :: Cooking
Flagrant :: What?
Dandruff :: Icky
Betty :: Too many
Tide :: Home
Judges :: What did you do?
Take it easy :: Chill!
Chef :: Another reality TV show

I don't want to brag...

2006-10-20T12:23:00.000-04:00

...but the hubster came home the other day with 2 skeins of yarn for me. And no, I didn't ask him to, it was a surprise. I don't know what I did to deserve him... but I'm sure I'm keeping him! He's the best!

Today I understood why it's so important to know how to drive. I take the bus to go to work (when my friend Y can't take me)... this is not a problem. The thing is it was raining cats and dogs and kittens and puppies. And to top it off, it was cold. If I knew how to drive, most probable I had a car and didn't have to wait for the bus. At least I'm on the right track... I've been practicing a lot with the hubster. Soon, I'll be ready to take the test. I'm scared!

The Brea bag is coming along. I'm working on the gusset now and it's taking forever. I knit and knit and nothing happens... I still have a few more inches to go. Pics coming soon!

When I'm done with the bag I'll retake the Sleeveless Leaf Top from KnitSimple. I'm almost done with the back, by the way.

I got the IK Holiday Gifts... and there are a few things I want to make from it. Specially, these...

Some of them it's just me and my wishful thinking... evidence A: the afghan... 19 skeins of Karabella Aurora Bulky. I just can't afford it at $8.50 the skein (approx. $162... yikes!), but it's gorgeous. Evidence B: Twilight Lace Wrap... the white number. I don't think I'm ready for lace, yet. The rest, I think I can make in this lifetime... we'll see. I love those pears...

And the winner is...

2006-10-19T16:52:00.000-04:00

JEFFREY! Congrats man! You had me on the edge of my seat for a week.

Going over last weekend stuff

2006-10-19T13:38:00.000-04:00

I know it's Thursday... but I want to tell you about the nice weekend I had.

First, on Saturday we went to the theater. I love going to the theater and we decided for the second time to buy season tickets for the Rochester Broadway Theater League (RBTL). They bring 5 Broadway shows to Rochester every season. We went last season and it was fantastic! We got to see My Fair Lady, Peter Pan, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat, Dame Edna, and Lion King. Fabulous shows! Sooo, the first show of this season was Beauty and the Beast. I've seen the movie many times... but when I saw the musical, I realized that story and songs are so beautiful and touching. We had a great time.

Then, on Sunday we went apple picking for the first time! It was so much fun... once you start you can't stop (although it was cold), you pick more that you'll ever need or want to eat. And then, there were raspberries... red and yellow. Yum!!! After picking so many apples... of course, I had to bake an apple-yellow raspberry pie for the first time, too! Let me tell you, it was good! I kind of made it up as I went... didn't follow a recipe for it. The hubster was a happy camper.

And that was it... we had FUN!

Fast forward to next weekend - Maybe... maybe... I'll go to Rhinebeck. I have to talk to the hubster. It's a 4 hour trip (each way)from here. We wanted to get a hotel room there but it was quite difficult, everything was booked. We'll see if we can make it.

48 things you could care less about

2006-10-19T12:01:00.000-04:00

1. first name? Eliany
2. were you named after anyone? Yes, my mom (Ana, nickname Annie) and one of her sisters (Elizabeth, nickname Ely). My mom just combine them together.
3. when did you last cry? I'm not sure. I've felt like crying but I haven't done it lately.
4. do you like your handwriting? Yes, I do.
5. what is your favorite lunchmeat? Pastrami.
6. if you were another person would you be friends with you? Yeah! I like me!
7. do you have a journal? I have this blog.
8. do you still have your tonsils? Yes, I do... although I almost got them out because of 2 infections.
9. would you bungee jump? If I do it with the hubster, I would.
10. what is your favorite cereal? Frosted Mini Wheats
11. do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Sometimes.
12. do you think you are strong? Yes
13. what is your favorite ice cream flavor? Ben & Jerry's Half Baked
14. shoe size? 8 1/2 - 9 (depends)
5. red or pink? Both.
16. what is the least favorite thing about yourself? I'm overweight.
17. who do you miss the most? All my family.
18. do you want everyone to send this back to you? Not really, I'll see it anyway on their blogs.
19. what color pants, shirt and shoes are you wearing? no pants (come on, I'm home by myself!), aqua shirt, no shoes
20. last thing you ate? Onion rice & steak.
21. what are you listening to right now? TV.
22. if you were a crayon, what color would you be? Yellow.
23. favorite smell? Bake goods.
24. who was the last person you talked to on the phone? The hubster.
25. the first thing you notice about people you are attracted to? The eyes.
26. do you like the person you stole this from? Yes... if I read her blog, it's because I like her.
27. favorite drink? Coke Zero.
28. favorite sport? I like volleyball.
29. eye color? Brown.
30. hat size? I have a big head.
31. do you wear contacts? No... I have sensitive eyes.
32. favorite food? All kinds of food.
33. scary movies or happy endings? Happy endings.
35. summer or winter? Summer... I live in Rochester, NY. Do you know what goes on here during winter?
36. hugs or kisses? Hugs & kisses.
37. favorite dessert? Fruit tarts from my favorite dessert place.
38. who is most likely to respond? Maybe somebody that reads my blog.
39. least likely to respond? Maybe somebody that reads my blog.
40. what books are you reading? The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
41. what's on your mouse pad? Don't have one anymore.
42. what did you watch last night on tv? Project Runway Finale.
43. favorite sounds? The hubster voice, babies babbling and giggling.
44. the rolling stones or beatles? Hmmm... don't know.
45. the furthest you've been from home? Venice, Italy.
46. what's your special talent? I can taught myself how to do stuff from books.
47. where were you born? Puerto Rico
48. who sent this to you? Got it from somebody's blog... sorry I don't recall who.

Fabulous Tutorial

2006-10-11T10:55:00.000-04:00

I saw this and had to share it here. This is a tutorial from Annie Modesitt showing how she makes her sketches. I think it's brilliant. I read her designer profile published on IK (Fall 2006) and was wondering how she did it... now it's available from the source. Enjoy!

Growing Up

2006-10-10T09:34:00.000-04:00

I got my learner's permit... it might sound like no big deal. But this is coming from a girl that already had a learner's permit and let it expire. I was a little terrified of driving and other cars. I'm proud to say that I still get nervous but I'm learning to drive (and I think I'm really good). Hopefully, I'll be able to get my driver's license before the crazy winter from Upstate NY arrives, although I'm not pushing it.

I haven't mentioned this but I've been buying books (how-to books, that is) like crazy. As you already know, the hubster (a.k.a. my own personal spoiler) got me a sewing machine and I want to put it to good use (because I'm a Project Runway wannabe and I'm proud of it). So, I went to B&N and got these with my b-day money (I feel like I'm a teenager!!!):

- I love this book. It's easy to understand and have everything you need, and then some, to get you started.
- This one is fun... with lots of tips and tricks. It comes with patterns for a shirt, skirt, and pants. Also, gives you ideas on how to modify those pieces and make them your own.
- I couldn't resist this one. It's full of great projects for all around the house and people. Also showcases beautiful vintage fabrics. Amy Butler is good.

I know I'll have more to say about them as I try the projects...

The other night, I watched The Birdcage (for the first time... mind you. Where was I all this time? Maybe living under a rock.) with the hubster. It was hillarious! Totally, loved it. It's not just about a gay couple... it's like RENT. Yes, they want to expose gay couples... but they also want us to understand that they love the same way straight people do and and have the same household problems, if not even more. It's just about people loving people and, ironically, the conflicts that may bring.

I'll end this post now... it was kind of random.

Birthday Surprise

2006-10-01T23:22:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday was my 24th Birthday. I knew the hubster was taking me somewhere but I didn't know where, for what, or any other details. The day came and what a surprise! He took me to Winderwood Farm (**the link is for their eBay store) and... and... and... bought me a wheel!

THIS WHEEL!!!

She's a Kromski Mazurca. I saw her and instantaneously fell in love. She came with 3 bobbins, a beautiful arched lazy kate, and a pound of white wool. Needless to say, I'm ecstatic. He knows how to spoil me.

After getting the wheel, we stopped by Widmer Winery and did some wine tasting and wine buying. It was my first time going to a winery and had a blast.

Also, I had dinner with the hubster, and my friends, Y and S. It was a great day!!!

In the knitting front...
I'll be participating on the Fiber Freaks KAL and will make the gorgeous Brea Bag. I'll use Araucania Nature Wool - Color 46. It's a beautiful blue color. Hopefully, I'll start it tomorrow... after I try my new wheel that is.

Blogging Anyway

2006-09-26T09:07:00.000-04:00

I want to push myself and try to blog as frequently as possible. These days haven't been as eventfull as last week but I think I can manage to find something to blog about.

I don't have much to show, actually, nothing to show in the FO front. Although I'm working on the Garterlac Dishcloth. It's so much fun! Just follow the pattern. It will look twisted and wrong on the needles, but keep at it. You'll see the magic at the end.

I also started spinning!! I think I did good for my first time. (**Will show pictures soon.) I'm following the park and draft (**go to this webpage, they have great videos) method because it gives me time to think about what I'm doing. I really enjoy the process... it's true what they say, it's very therapeutic. I'm already seeing a wheel in my future.

Have a great day.
I'll leave you with this...

1. A penny saved is- not going to help my yarn habit.

2. Man is the only animal that- is self-conscious.

3. Happiness is nothing more than- pure feeling.

4. It ain’t over till- everybody dies.

5. To err is human; to forgive- is part of being alive.

Bell :: Heavenly
Abuse :: Suffering
Relief :: Peeing
List :: OCD
Concern :: Future
Absolute :: Nothing
Cling :: Stuck
Dump :: Not useful anymore
Terminate :: Pest
Wine :: Give me some now!

A little bit of everything...

2006-09-19T09:52:00.000-04:00

Since today's post is totally random, here's a countdown of interesting events...
(Warning: This post is picture obese. As always click click for biggie.)

1. Last Tuesday (9/12), the hubster took me to a concert. Yep, the teacher went out on a school day, poor guy was so tired on Wednesday. OK, so it wasn't any common, boring concert. It was AEROSMITH!!! I love AEROSMITH!!! I love Steven Tyler... and Joe Perry... and Tom Hamilton... and Joey Kramer... and Brad Whitford! The hubster knows this very well and he took me to my first AEROSMITH concert ever. Tom Hamilton wasn't able to perform because he was diagnosed with throat cancer and is under treatment now (we hope you get well soon). Still, the concert was amazing. I loved it. Motley Crue was the opening show and it was really good too... but I went to see AEROSMITH, though. Here are some pics...

2. On Saturday (9/16), the hubster, Y, E, and me went to the 2006 Finger Lakes Fiber Festival. Another first for me! It's a small, local festival. I had a great time with the girls and the hubster (my personal photographer). Look! More pics...

It was interesting to see the animals up close and personal. Something that surprised me was the big amount of alpaca yarns! Almost every vendor had an alpaca yarn and blends. Also, there were beautiful wheels, spindles and roving everywhere.

3. He made me do it! The hubster set me up... (here's the evidence! By the way, look at all the gorgeous fiber in the back!)

He calls me and tells me... "Here's a girl spinning, come and see her." She asked him (because he was standing there first) if he wanted to try. He reacted fast and innocently said: "No, it's OK... but I think she wants to try it." He had it planned. SO... since he put me on the spot, I had to do it. Honestly, I was so scared. It was the first time I had a spindle on my hands. After the 2 minutes demo, she told me that the spindle was the last one they had for sale. The hubster again jumped in and said he thought I should buy it, so I did. This is what I got...

I'm pretty sure the burgundy roving (and the yarn already spun) is wool (Yep, it is... I checked). The spindle and burgundy roving I bought from Spinning Bunny. I don't remember the contents of the blue roving, although I know it's a blend. (It is a 70% Merino/30% Tencel.) And this, I got from Cloverleaf Farms; it is so soft!!! So, I've been educating myself on the field of spinning fiber. We'll see what comes out of this! If you're a spinner, any insight, tips, and/or advice will be greatly appreciated.

4. And last but certainly not least, some FOs! Both projects are from Debbie Stoller's book The Happy Hooker.

First is the One Skein Scarf (there is a CAL going on right now at Fiber Freaks with this and other scarf patterns) in Caron Simply Soft - Victorian Rose (yarn I had on my stash). That was a very easy, instant gratification project. The second is the Fit to be Tied clutch in Lion Brand Wool-Ease - Seaspray (the color looks a little washed out in the picture). I haven't lined it yet, but I'm pretty happy with it. I love the color combo of the greenish yarn and chocolate brown/pink ribbon. Now, I need a fabric to match.

5. Just a comment... I'm not a commenter in Blogland, I'm more of a lurker. So, when I decide to actually come out of my shy shell and comment, I can't. Why? you ask... well, I'm using the Blogger beta and for some reason the two versions (regular and beta) aren't compatible. The same way I can't comment on a regular Blogger blog, a person with a regular Blogger blog can't comment on mine. I hope this changes soon...

Trying new things

2006-09-12T09:48:00.000-04:00

I'm always up to try new stuff and shake up my life. I've seen in Melissa's blog some weekly memes and I want to implement them here. I think that would help me write more often and let people get to know me. So this is what's coming, starting this week:

The intelligent man finds almost everything ridiculous, the sensible man hardly anything.
-- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

In this quote, the adjective intelligent has another meaning to me... more like blind, stubborn, arrogant, than very smart. This intelligent person isn't going to care and will take everything for granted, whereas the sensible one will try to understand the world around him. This reminds me of me being younger and my mom telling me... "Ask away, there are not stupid questions. If you don't know something, ask... probably somebody will know." She taught me that it's OK not to know everything, being always grateful of a new day and everything I have, big and small... she raised me as a sensible woman.

1. I have always been fascinated with- learning everything I can from nature, people, myself...

2. My secret crush is- are (what's a girl to do? I have 2 crushes!) Steven Tyler & Johnny Depp.

3. I have a secret desire to- be very succesful in life.

4. My family irritates me when- (without bad intentions) they tell me that I need to lose weight.

5. I can keep a secret only if- you seriously tell me so.

True love :: The hubster
Age :: Wisdom
Stern :: Mysterious
Elastic :: Bubble gum
Rustic :: Wood
Enhance :: Upgrade
Jackson :: Drama
Inherit :: Sadness
Devious :: Sneaky
Scapegoat :: Not guilty

iPod Meme

2006-08-23T22:58:00.000-04:00

OK OK... I wanted to do this for a long time now... so here it is! Actually, I thought my Ipod was more random that it actually is... oh, well.

How am I feeling today?
Wearing and Tearing by Led Zeppelin

Will I get far in life?
The Princess of ‘Xibalba’: Los Dias sin Dias by Estradasphere (Yep, they’re weird, but good!)

How do my friends see me?
Broadway by Goo Goo Dolls

When will I get married?
Pawn Shop by Sublime (The question was when not where!?! DUH!!!)

What is my best friend's theme song?
Amantes by Rituales

What is the story of my life?
Color by 311 (I like that… maybe it means color as in yarn color… hmmm)

What was high school like?
La Vie Boheme B by Rent [Original Broadway Cast]

How am I going to get ahead in life?
10,000 Years (Peace is Now) by Live (I don’t want to last that long!!!)

What is the best thing about me?
Nottingham Lace by Buckethead (Me likey some lace.)

How is today going to be?
Flutter Girl by Chris Cornell (It’s going to be crazy fast.)

What is in store for this weekend?
Noticiero by Ricardo Arjona

What song describes my parents?
Tired of “Me” by Live (What did I do now?)

What song describes your grandparents?
Green Eyes by Coldplay

How is my life going?
Rise n’ Shine by Estradasphere

What song will they play at my funeral?
Carried by Superdrag

How does the world see me?
Semilla by Puya

Will I have a happy life?
Suspension without Suspense by No Doubt (I guess I’ll never know.)

What do my friends really think of me?
Me Saben a Miel by Circo

Do people secretly lust after me?
Ambush by Sepultura

How can I make myself happy?
Te Veo Venir Soledad by Franco de Vita (I do appreciate my alone time.)

What should I do with my life?
Los Superheroes by Fiel a la Vega (I don’t think the world needs a new super heroine.)

Will I ever have children?
Girl by The Beatles (Awww… a baby girl for me and the hubster.)

What is some good advice for me?
Muzzle by Smashing Pumpkin (OK… I’ll do that… I’ll shut up now.)

What is my signature dancing song?
The Difference by The Wallflowers

What do I think my current theme song is?
Inevitable by Shakira (Love the song!!!)

What does everyone else think my current theme song is?
Lost in Hollywood by System of a Down

What type of men/women do you like?
So Cool by Filter (The hubster is So Cool!)

What kind of kisser are you?
Everything Zen by Bush

What's your style?
Beheaded by The Offspring (Oops! The secret is out.)

What kind of lover are you?
Hearts Breaking Even by Bon Jovi

What would be playing on a first date?
The Shadow of Seattle by Marcy Playground

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Creep by Stone Temple Pilots (Scary!)

Trivial Happiness

2006-08-16T23:17:00.000-04:00

I just found out that I'm going to have an A. C. Moore less than 2 miles away from my apartment and I'm excited. I like A. C. Moore much much better that Michaels and JoAnn's Fabrics because of their bigger yarn selection. Along with the A. C. Moore, there's gonna be a new Marshalls and a Bed Bath & Beyond. Yep... that's it.

PS. I have half my stuff already packed. So, I'm not doing too bad. All my yarn is packed... except the Sleeveless Leaf Top. I'm doing fine... although there's not enough progress to show a pic. Soon... coming soon.

Catching up...

2006-08-08T19:37:00.000-04:00

"Be the change you want to see in the world."
~Mahatma Gandhi

"The key to change... is to let go of fear."
~Rosanne Cash

A few important changes have occurred in my life in the past couple weeks.

1. I’m leaving graduate school. Yes… you read me correctly. I struggled with the idea for many months and came to the conclusion that I needed to step out. Every single day I fought myself… kicked myself out of bed… pushed myself out of the door… and tried to convinced myself that this (graduate school) is what I had chose, what I wanted, and I had to finish. Little by little, I was driving myself crazy and being less and less motivated. Finally, I made it… I took a step forward and talked to my boss. He totally understood and was very supportive. At this point I was totally sure that this change is what I need. It doesn’t mean I hate science. Science has been my life since almost middle school. I have great appreciation for the field, scientist, and the learning process… I just want to do something else; I want to try my hand at something totally different. We’ll see what happens. By the way, I’m not just quitting. I’m changing plans of study… from Ph.D. to M.S. But I’m almost done. I just need to tie some loose ends, write a paper, write a thesis and defend. I should finish sometime during this coming Fall Semester.

2. I started a new diet. I’m doing Nutrisystem and so far (couple days) it has been very good. The food tastes good and I don’t feel deprived… yet. Will keep you posted about how I like it. I think I need to spend more time on it to have a real opinion. I really need to lose some weight.

3. I’m moving from my apartment and I’m not sad at all. The reason is related to change 1. Currently, I live in university housing and since I’m finishing soon, I have to move out. I decided to move know because the hubster is starting a new job soon. He’ll be a fist year teacher!!! We’re very excited about this and I know he’ll be great. I just don’t want him to have the stress of school and the stress of moving. So we thought it was convenient to move now. We’re moving to a really nice two-bedroom apartment in a great apartment complex. I can’t wait to move.

So that’s good for two weeks, right? It’s not good… it’s excellent… GREAT. I needed those changes.

I also got my yarn from Smiley’s. I like the colors… but I didn’t expect the Pineapple CE to be that YEEEEEELLOW!!!!! I can’t wait to use the yarn, although I’ll have to wait since we’re moving by the end of August. So, I need to pack like a mad woman.

I’ll go knit for a while now… See ya!

As if I need a new hobby!

2006-07-30T19:18:00.000-04:00

The hubster got me this brand-spanking-new sewing machine. We went to Jo-Ann and passed by the Husqvarna Viking area. I did the droopy eyes thing and the hubster told me to ask about the machines... one of the employees recommended the Huskystar E20 and she convinced me (and apparently the hubster too... he's all about encouraging me to do the things that he knows make me happy. So yesterday, I tried the machine and
it works smoothly... I don't know much about sewing (meaning this is the first time I use a sewing machine and I don't know how to hand sew) so I just tried the different stitches. Up to now I have an inclination for quilts... so that's what I'm going to try first. Today I got some of the things that I need for my new hobby. I don't have much time to dedicate to it right now (Qualifying Exam is coming fast!!!) but I'll try to put some time into it.

As you probably already know, Smileys is selling Cotton-Ease for $1.99. While some people is paying 4 times that price and more at eBay, I went crazy at Smileys and got $40-something worth of yarn and I feel good. $40 equals 20 skeins... that was too good to let pass.

So... I got 10 skeins of Cherry Red for Central Park Hoodie by Heather Lodinsky...

5 skeins of Pineapple for Molly Ringwald by Michele Rose Orne...

and 6 skeins of Candy Blue for Camisa by Kay Cole.

Hopefully, I'll have enough yarn. All patterns are from Knitscene, Fall Issue 2006. The hubster helped me with the colors... so blame him. =) This is very tentative... I can always find new projects for this yarn. What do you think? You should know I appreciate your input. That's good for now.

Leisure Time!!!

2006-07-28T23:20:00.000-04:00

So here are some of the promised pics from our NYC get together. We had a BLAST!!! Actually, we always do. It's really difficult to get to this level of trust, love, and acceptance... but we did.

This is almost the whole group (one went to see his family for a day).

This is just a sample of how much fun we had.

Much food was eaten, much liquid was drank, much time was spend catching up, much laughter was heard, many miles were walked, many many many hugs and kisses were given... we had the greatest time. I can't wait to see you again my friends!

As part of our great summer, we (the hubster and me) had the opportunity to go to Ozzfest. It was great! By the end of the day (like 11:30PM (we got there around noon)) I was pooped, but the whole show was really good. We got to see Ozzy, obviously, Norma Jean, Black Label Society, Hatebreed, Atreyu, Lacuna Coil, Avenged Sevenfold, Dragonforce, Disturbed, and System of a Down. Yep... I'm still tired, but thank God for the person who invented earplugs.

I leave you with some Avenged Sevenfold pics. They are sexy!

See ya!

PR Constitution Day

2006-07-25T19:01:00.000-04:00

Today we (Puerto Ricans) celebrate the day the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico became effective. You can find some more info right here. It's so frequent that we take things for granted, that I didn't want to let this opportunity go by. I'm not going to make any political remarks... I just wanted to let people know. Starting with ourselves, sometimes or most of the time we don't even know what holiday we're celebrating... we just celebrate them, because any day is good for partying... more so when it's a holiday. But not everybody takes time to think about why we have a day off work. (By the way, I don't have the day off because I don't live there anymore). You don't even have to agree with our Constitution or even the reasons why and circumstances under it was written. It just part of our history and the things that make us who we are.

Also, we just won our fifth Miss Universe title. Go Zuleyka!!!

By the way and changing topics, we had a blast last weekend in NYC. Pics coming soon.

Adios!

Ohh Happy Day!

2006-07-20T01:22:00.000-04:00

"A friend is one who knows us, but loves us anyway."
~Fr. Jerome Cummings

Tonight I'm leaving to NYC to get together with my friends from college. This is a much awaited weekend. Even though we took our own paths, we still care and love each other... that's why we've been longing to just get together and have the best time ever. What better place than NYC?!?!?! Ohh... I can't wait!!! Ta ta for now!

Slowly but surely...

2006-07-16T23:02:00.000-04:00

Never discourage anyone... who continually makes progress, no matter how slow.
~Plato (I like this guy!)

It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.
~Confucius

I'm working on this top (my first wearable, mind you). This is the Sleeveless Leaf Top from KnitSimple (spring/summer 2006). I think, no no, I know I'm gonna leave out the flowers or roses or whatever they are. I think it would look nice just with the leaf motif. I just don't fancy them. What do you think? Would you go for the flowers? Help me with this one.

So, this is what I have so far. I started with the back and I'm a good 6" into it. I was tempted to rip it and start again because as you may notice the ribbing doesn't have an even tension. But I decided against it. I'll finish it and learn from it. I'm using TLC Cotton Plus in Spruce, although the pattern calls for Bernat Handicrafter Cotton. Not my favorite yarn for this project... a little too much like Sugar'n Cream I would say. I like TLC's softness and drape, though... we'll see how it looks as a finish product and on a real body.

Let me know what you think?! (**Images are clickable!!!)

Gotta Luv the Shoes!

2006-07-15T01:51:00.000-04:00

"If the shoe fits, wear it."
~Proverb

"If the shoe fits, is cute and cheap, buy it."
~My Proverb

OK... my friends know that I'm not the girliest dudette alive (meaning I don't wear makeup and high-heels to go to the lab and sit in front of the computer). But when you go to Marshalls Shoe Store, you start playing with the idea that you should buy some shoes and start wearing them to work. So guess what? I got shoes... this pair, specifically.

They are super high, funky, Nine West and cheap-o (my favorite). Also, got a pair of Bandolino's (red-ish) leather wedges and a pair of Converse in a very loud color. Can you tell?

Soon... picture of knitted stuff that I'm working on.

**Clickable images (Taken from zappos.com)

A Second Beginning

2006-07-13T23:14:00.000-04:00

“The beginning is the most important part of the work.”
~Plato

Hello, hello! This is my humble Internet abode. Come on in and...

** Image is clickable!**

As you may or may not know, this is my second blog. There were many things about the first one that I didn’t like. It looked too much like everyone else’s and I like being different. So, this is my second take on blogging.

Feel free to comment and ramble with me… See ya around.