GIVEAWAY AT KNITPURLGIRL!!!

Oh my gosh!!! You have to go to KnitPurlGirl on the right of my blog...besides having a great blog she is having a contest, yes and WEBS has donated a set of Bamboo Interchangable
Knitting needles...

I want them soooo bad. Just love bamboo!

So go to her blog, hurry get over there and get a chance to win or maybe 3 or 4 chances!!

Peace Darla

Friday Night

I'm so excited..tomorrow (friday) I will be seeing a one woman show in Mitchell, SD.

I will be going with a dear friend of mine , she is a native Lakhota woman, and we will be meeting her sister at the Doll Museum.

This is just so exciting for me and I promise to have pics and tell you all about it. I can't wait to write about this experience. I am blessed in my life.

Have a great friday.

Peace,

Darla

Saturday Night

Wow, had a blast last night. Went to see a local theatre group. Went with one of my neighbors
and actually had 1st row seats. (Helps knowing everyone) The play "Funny Money" by Ray Cooney , made you laugh through both acts and wanting more.

As English plays go it really was great. A big difference from seeing a play in NYC as our tickets were $8 versus $80 a seat and certainly not front row.

Will write tomorrow as I have to make up my knitting that I didn't do last night.

Peace,
Darla

A Day Of Rememberance

I remember sitting the entire day watching the television when Katrina hit Mississippi and Louisiana knowing my son in law ,who was serving in Iraq ,didn't know the danger that was upon his immediate family and friends.

I called looking to make sure his Mom & Dad were safe as they left the area. They were. I spoke alot to my daughter as she had so much to worry about at that time.

His family lost alot but thank God they are safe. No more High School in Gulfport for his memories upon his return. I reflect on what has not been done to help more the Americans who still are in need of help in these areas.

Now I sit in front of the TV watching the funeral of Sen. Ted Kennedy. It has been quite a different day than we have seen in the Kennedy lives. I learned alot in the last few days of the Senator as a human being. He really did come into his own.

He will be missed by all as a champion for all who were in need or were just wanting the rights as Americans they should have.

I am knitting as it makes me happy and this is a celebration of a life .

Being a woman and having a disability and working for advocacy for others makes me sad to see him gone.

Peace,
Darla

I have missed blogging. I have had alot of knitting time since I last blogged.

The ADA Presentation went great. Next year, the 20th anniversary will be so important to all of us. Have been busy working advocacy online as well as locally.

I lost a dear friend last month. I can't express how hard it was for me as well as her family. Yes she is out of pain and safe but I miss her terribly and will never forget Verla.

I had quite an odd feeling in the pit of my stomach all day today. With Senator Kennedys' death I reflected on what an impact in my life and many others (baby boomers) has had on us. I think back to all of the tragedy that struck us during the time that we were teens. The changes that came out of the pain that was put on us as a Nation. It did shape us in many ways.

I am still proud to be a liberal democrat and so lucky to have been born when I was so that I can still feel a part of many important days in our history.

God Bless and peace,

Darla

Sorry!! Need Some Time Off

Iwill be back but need to take a short time away.....

Busy organizing for the "19th Anniversary of the ADA Act". Will have plenty to write about after.



Peace and rainbows,

Darla

Happy 4th of July

There was a time of family and many friends gathering around our home that we celebrated the 4th with
a huge picnic and fir.eworks

As I have gotten older the kids grew, married and have children and friends of their own
it is a time of remembrance for me. They have moved on to make their own memories of the past.


Family has moved all over the map. Parents and older family members are gone and memories of my past. So today is a look into the past of our Country and my past for the memories that have been. They are good memories.

Enjoy and have a wonderful and safe July 4th......

Peace

Darla

What A World

So we finally did it and have put a "real" comedian in office. Not that I don't think we need comedy in Washington,D.C. because we all need to laugh alot more. I wish Minnesota well as Sen. Franken can't do any worse than what has been in that state before.

I don't see any skeletons in his past and it does give us 60 votes, so what the heck we can try it for a while.

Also on the front our troops are leaving Iraq....well not really just pulling back a bit to watch from what I understand. I hope and pray that all goes well for the people of Iraq and let them have peace for a change.

I'm putting together my $10 Swap pkg. and am sending it out tomorrow. I love doing this every month. I enjoy the fun of sending and receiving a surprise in the mail every month. Thank you

http://www.ravelry.com/,

you folks rock and are #1 in my book. Many new friendships worldwide. Have learned alot about the lives of others and how they live. Imagine you can't get Kool Aid every where in the world. Who knew. But be careful as customs does check your pkgs, out when Kool Aid is included in the package.

So have a great night and enjoy the rest of the week.

Peace,

Darla

The Last Few Days

Wow, what a June..so much time to reflect on ones self after losing so many young people. MJ what can I say but that he was a star like no other. Farrah had the courage I wish I could have in very hard times ....

It is sad when we see someone we have never met but have enjoyed for the last 40 years the spirit they had to entertain us. It reminds me of how hard the life we lead is. It isn't easy and thank goodness I am not in the spotlight.

June is strange here as last night the temp. actually was 57 degrees. It did feel good to open the windows to sleep by. Unfortunately it got me so relaxed that I read for an hour (2am). So I didn't get up very early.

I'm still knitting alot. I have been making project bags and purses from cotton yarn. Great for the summer to throw in the wash and hang to dry.

Well must go and finish a project and start another. And put the dogs to bed.


Peace and great week ahead,

Darla

Please Peace in the Middle East

I try hard not to put my political views in this blog but I can't right now. I am so sad to see Iran and people tonight. Thank goodness I don't have to worry about a home invasion in the middle of the night.

My heart goes out to all that can't sleep like I will tonite or watch a TV program of my choice. Or think and say out loud what I want, even if no one agrees with me.

It's hard to watch people suffering anywhere in this world.

I only hope for them to feel secure and have the peace I can have tonight.

Peace,
Darla

Almost Summer

Not here in South Dakota!!! Yes, we had the parade & town picnic but the next day it was (and is) damp, clammy & rainy,....no end is sight.

Oh I was wrong it will be getting warmer but not drier. Yuck..I want sunshine and a cool breeze at night not clouds, rain & humidity. The birds are liking it though ....
dogs hate it as they like paws dry!!!! Me too....

Going to eat will write later...

Peace,
Darla

Sunday after Saturday and before Monday

CUTE BABY BUNNY

I tried to blog on Saturday but I was too busy knitting. I am really hooked on this wonderful art.It was cold and rainy so why not!

It's a good thing I have lots of time to do this otherwise I would be in deep trouble. I can't seem to get enough. What a great addiction.

As I spend the majority of my time alone except for 2 lil dogs and an occasional phone call ,I have filled many hours with knitting. Seems I don't have time to read anymore and am backed up with 17 great books to read. I do have the television on so I can listen while creating.

I also think about my $10 Swap Group, which I adore. Friends all over the world and a surprise every month. And then I get to put a box together for them. It has been so much fun.

Well must get to bed and try not to think of what to knit next!

May all your flowers bloom this summer...

Darla

What A Day!!

Sorry but it was laundry day and I actually HUNG sheets and coverlets outside ( I must be getting old). They smell sooo good can't wait to climb in them in a few.

Also planted all my seeds and flowers...finally.
Now grow....

Have been knitting like crazy and trying to catch up in my groups on Ravelry.com.
Seems I don't have enough time again. Also just keep on knitting..can't stop ...I love it. Going to make some row counters with handmade clay beads for my $10 Swap Group.

Also working on invitations to 80 business people, government & medical persons for the "19th ADA Celebration" July 23rd. So it's going great and have a wonderful speaker for the presentation. We have a local Group to get the ADA word out and Peer Support to those in need. Love to gather information that can help others besides myself.

The day has well ended and good nite to all...sweet dreams,

Darla

Swapping

Well, I just finished making up my May swap package to go out. I am having too much fun. I just love meeting new people and getting surprise packages in the mail as much as I enjoy making them up to send.

This month was great..actually wrapped all the little goodies into a ball of beautiful Rowan yarn. I hope my swap partner loves it as much as I did making it up.

Tomorrow is gardening day...have to put the flowers & vegetables into pots and make sure all those seeds get in soil.

The weather has finally turned and is wonderful.

Going to knit some more and get a good book going.

Peace,

Darla

My Camera

I finally did it..I bought batteries. I cannot believe they cost me $8.79 plus tax.
Guess I need to invest in a charger as I do have rechargeable somewhere. What is the problem when a person (me) will not go out and purchase the darn batteries.

I have a digital so I have no excuse for not getting the film printed. So it is done and pics will be coming on my blog and Ravelry.

So watch for my projects finally. I have given alot as gifts but I can start from NOW..

Have a great week,
Darla

The Information Black Hole

Wow, there is so much information to be had. So many ways to get lost in the Black Hole of the Internet. I just love it except it has an impact on my writing....I don't do any when I get lost (not lost, just gaining more information).]

I find I get so involved searching and expanding the knowledge I gain I actually forget why I got on the Internet. Oh..yeah..it was to write on my Blog today or yesterday any many other days it seems.

I don't want to complain because I am learning so much about everything, like knitting...other blogger sites (which I enjoy sooo much), political views of others and just plain funny blogs.

I need to pace myself and make a daily list with the amount of time I will allow myself to do certain things....(.not really because I know I won't do that) read blogs for 35 minutes, knit for 3 hrs.,eat something 3minutes (as I no longer cook) so as you see this will not work.!!!!

So for right now I am going to make some iced tea (sun of course), complete one more knitting project and then start another and watch Paul Tracey (used to work with at Realty Executives, a close friend of his & ex Canadian race car driver...)do well at the Indie 500!!!!!!


Have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend and remember all of our past and present military...

Peace,
Darla

I Am Back With A Vengance

Alright I really cannot explain what happened but I fudged on writing and looks like everything else online.....

I apologize to all. I really am enjoying life at 60 but seemed to be busy knitting, swapping and just being. Some small crisis now and then but all is well for the most part.

I have been interviewed for our local paper and have to get copies in the mail to my friends and family around the states. I'm sure they will be surprised. The young lady who interviewed me was great. I am not from South Dakota and have no family here but I enjoy the lazy lifestyle I have now...no hustle like back east..

I have been knitting like crazy and still find it hard to find a balance for reading and participating in the outside world (ok just away from home).

Gotta go but will start being more disciplined about writing and reading..I promise...

Peace to all,

Darla

Yarn Help

So I want everyone to be ready as today I need help...big time. If any of you have suggestions ( and we know who you are) please let me know here or on Ravelry,(dacg).

I have purchased some beautiful yarns that are discontinued but don't know what stitches to use or what pattern I could use to show it off and the pricing is wonderful..okay I'll give it up for us internet shoppers because we have no LYS, http://www.webs.com ,. I check so many sites for the best prices of yarn and shipping costs and have found this last week an abudance of wonderfully pricey yarns I could purchase for great markdowns.

I also need to mention http://www.paradisefibers.com as they are fast at getting my orders out.

• I have been swatching with different size needles and trying all types of stitches which doesn't seem to help me. I am having fun though. Have to find a book that will help me with the textures and fibers of differnt yarns.
  
  So here they are:
  
  Cascade 128, 100% Peruvian Highland Wool (100 gms,128yds, size 10/10 1/2 needles), it is a wonderful yarn & I want more.
  
  Berroco Cuzco, 50% Superfine Alpaca & 50% Peruvian Wool (100 gms, 130yds, size 10 Needles), ooh it is so soft.
  
  Rowan Chunky Print , 100% Wool (100gms, 109yds, size 13 needles), its think & thin and wonderfully colorful yarn (many colors in it's variegation's).
  
  I bought these on sale and want more & there's plenty for the getting...I just don't know enough of what to do with yarns with beautiful texture to it. Being newer to knitting and expanding my interest I need help.
  
  I have 2 hanks of each (but will order more at reasonable prices too) to work with at the moment and want to purchase ASAP.
  
  I have checked my pattern books and others to see what I might do..no luck. I went on the Internet to no avail..(some are yarns they no longer are showing patterns for...I also checked http://www.knitrowan.com.
  
  My next step after tonite is to hit http://www.ravelry.com during the day and see who might help me..
  
  Thank you ahead for the help...
  
  Good Night and peace,
  
  Darla

What A Day!!

Who would have thought the temperature could even be 90 degrees right now in South Dakota...where did spring go?

I understand I can turn the ac off tonite as it is going to drop down 30 - 35 degrees. Okay that sounds more like it.

I would rather have 75 or so that way I can start planting and watching the flowers grow.

People are very hard to satisfy. I can't have it both ways...cold or hot nothing in between.

I'm working on a scarf for my granddaughter A for her Oct. b'day. Need to start early and Kansas is where they will be not DC anymore. They'll be a little closer or at least within driving distance.

Have a great night...I am going to walk the dogs.

Peace,

Darla

Earth Day

Happy Earth Day 2009 everyone.....

I will be back later as am hanging ...yes hanging my laundry out today to dry.
I am very proud of me....

Speculation- What Did The Handshake Mean??

So when did a handshake that was led by one person become NOT the thing to do. So much for etiquette in 2009. What did it mean..it meant a person did reciprocate by putting his hand out after the other person led with his. Big deal...

I want to understand why this is so wrong..it's not like President Obama "looked into his eyes and saw his soul", if you know what I mean.

I want more respect for each others and when did it come to pass that "WE" were so perfect in this world?? We have made mistakes (okay not as individuals but as a whole)...many through our history. How about reading up on Constitutional Law in this Country and learning becoming more literate on this subject.

Do the majority of people know what the "Rule of Law" is?? I bet not because most did not pay attention in "Problems in American Democracy" or "American History". And who of us researches information we hear to really try our best to know the facts that we hear in a day.

Enough ranting on my part..I do research and read...and find out what both sides of the argument's are ...both sides!!!! I feel in this way I might at least sleep better at night knowing I have tried my best.

Thank goodness we live here and not in a Country that has just passed "Shari Law" and tomorrow I must cover up my entire body or be killed.

Enough and I am sorry if I have not agreed with some but I have my opinion and you may also have yours....thanks to our Constitution. You need not agree with me and all comments will be read and respected..I promise.

Peace,
Darla

Happy Birthday To Me

I am now officially sixty, that's 60! I feel great and just made a Chocolate Mayo Cake with butter cream frosting. It's smaller than what Mom made for birthdays but I
can probably finish this one by Tuesday.

Opened more cards and they were very pretty....

Will write later.. am going to figure out what to knit next.

Peace,

Darla

My 60th Year

This is a photo of one of my favorite birds..the Yellow Finch...isn't he beautiful.

Where did all those years go? I don't feel sixty...I am not like my Mom & Dad were at this age. Thank goodness I'm a Baby Boomer..you know the after WWII kids.

The age thing doesn't seem to bother me..I read, Tweet, blog and learned to knit.
My back is bad but as a whole the body is still okay. I do need to have my hair streaked but the wrinkles (lines) I earned. Mom always said "too much sun is not good for you". Ooh..she was right again.

I would love her to make my favorite, Hellman's Chocolate Mayo Cake with butter cream icing. It's been way too many years since I had that and family to enjoy it with.

So I was born April 18th, 1949 on a Monday. It was 5:36 AM, EST. I don't have much time left till the big day.

I have a friend here that baked a cherry pie for me to celebrate the day.

I am having a good year (except for surgery & pneumonia) and even have new yarn Rowan Chunky to play with. What more could one ask for but new beautiful yarn.

Peace,

Darla

Happy Easter And A Movie

I'm up late and not having to color eggs or hide them around the house (the dogs don't look for them)I decided to watch the movie "DOUBT"...wow. As I understand everyone has a different feeling or perspective after seeing this movie (it was a play on Broadway).

Being brought up in the Catholic Church and going to Catholic High school in the days when they wore habits, I found the movie really interesting. It brought back a feelings of being taught by nuns and just girls in the classes. The good, the bad and the indifferent too late 1960's high school girls.


It brought back feelings of missing the good old days and the changes we as teens went through during the period of the first and second Ecumenical Councils. Very strict then very different. I always have missed the Latin Mass, after all there was English on the right page of our Missals to follow and we took Latin in school. We did pay attention too.

We covered our heads and never wore slacks out of respect and there was special mood of ancient times for listening and speaking this "dead language". So maybe I am a little old fashioned in certain events of the past.

So if you get a chance see this movie..great acting and some memories of 1964.

Have a wonderful day today,

Darla

Holidays

When did the Holidays get so sad for some....no more Easter baskets, or new hats and spring coats. That is my memory of getting ready for the Easter day. We went to Church every Friday at 3PM for Stations of the Cross. We didn't eat meat but mac & cheese, pancakes or fish. Mom worked hard for us to have a great and memorable experience.

How I miss the family we had. Mom and Dad are gone now and our family is all over the map so the link of Grandparents, Aunts & Uncles..parents and cousins is no longer near.

We colored eggs so they could be hidden & found the next morning and then on to Mass (we fasted) and then home for Easter breakfast with the home so busy and looking forward to deviled eggs. We would have dinner at Gram's home with the entire family...what great memories I have. Sometimes Mom made dinner as we grew to adulthood everything did change.

Some of us moved, went in the military or were just not their anymore.

How I want those simple pleasant days back laughing,playing and enjoying the fun of family.

Happy Easter to all,
Darla