Poser of the Year

Caleb's been at it some more. Rumor has it that his grandmother (like that, mom?) got him his own kid-friendly digital camera for Christmas. I hope he likes it.

About Christmas, we're getting the kids one thing each and then filling their stockings. I better get working on finishing Eva's stocking...she's getting older now and it's harder to justify why she doesn't have one. We got Caleb an mp3 player (holds about 30 songs-spent less than $20) and Eva a personalized Wiggles CD (we got Caleb a Veggietales one over the summer that they LOVE--spent around $20). Last year we didn't get them anything from ourselves. We saved their Christmas presents for their birthdays (Jan/Mar). They just get so much from grandparents (3 sets) and other family that it seems overkill for us. This is coming from a mother that had them skip Halloween this year... I'd like to do more eventually. Most of you know that my Christmas past is full of over-indulgence thanks to my Grandma C. But, for now, while I can...I'm keeping it simple.

I'd love to hear other people's Christmas gift giving "philosophy". What are your plans this holiday season?

Poser of the Year

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/poser-of-year.html

I DID IT!

Here is the chart that I made. I still don't know what I'm going to do for a reward but new shoes is leading the pack. I was thinking new outfit or new bra but I should probably save that for later once my body starts to get smaller. Anyway, I had such a busy day that I didn't get to the gym until almost 7pm. I'd never been to the Y at night before. I don't like it. Too many body builders. Going in the morning is much more my speed. I don't feel like such a wimp. I did the elliptical machine and didn't feel like a total idiot. I could even take my hands off. I think I'm going to like doing that more than the treadmill. The heart rate monitors work on them so I don't have to stop for 10 seconds to check my pulse (Jen gives me a range to stay in). I did really well and felt I got a lot out of my workout. The abs kicked my butt. That's probably going to be my biggest struggle each day. I'm actually looking forward to going again tomorrow!

I DID IT!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/i-did-it.html

Chart

I made a chart. I even made homemade "stickers" to go on it. I'm going to make a different one each week and have a different reward each week for having achieved my goals. I'll post a picture this afternoon after I have earned my first sticker. Here's the deal: I don't have a reward. I need a reward. It's only my first week so I don't feel it should be anything too big. I'm taking suggestions!

Here are some things I am planning on using this either this week or in the future:

1. Massage
2. Pedicure
3. New tennis shoes
4. New workout outfit
5. New songs for my ipod

Chart

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/chart.html

Bed Time

The kids got flu shots yesterday. I don't know if that is what made them sleepless all night, but they were. Caleb started coming in our room every hour beginning at 12:30am. At 1:30am, Eva started to join in the sleeplessness. When Caleb came in at 2:30am we cut our losses and just told him to get in our bed. He did, but didn't fall asleep for over an hour. He tossed and turned and kept repeating parts of The Wonder Pets show that he had seen that day. He climbed behind our bed and laid down there for a while. He finally jumped back up with us and fell asleep. Just like this.

His head and shoulders are totally hanging off the back of our bed and he slept like this well into the morning. I hope tonight will be better and we can make it all the way through the night. I was really starting to like sleeping through the night with no interruptions.

Bed Time

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/bed-time.html

Flock of Seagulls

I ran. I ran so far away.

Today was my first day of training. I was really nervous. I was almost to the point of throwing up and I hadn't even arrived at the YMCA yet. I knew she was going to push me and it was going to suck. I was right. But, I feel great right now. My legs are still burning and probably will for a couple of days...but it was worth it.

We started out by warming up on the treadmill for 5 minutes. I just had to get my heart rate up to 139. Then I had a choice of 3 cardio machines. I went with the treadmill first since I was already there. And I ran. I ran so far away. Couldn't get away. When I workout by myself I usually do a brisk walk at 3.0 and do some incline. She started me at 3.6 and we gradually worked up to 4.7. We did 2 minutes at each interval (she went up 2-3 levels each time). OUCH! I thought I was going to fall off the treadmill. But, I did it! When it was over the 3.6 seemed like nothing. Then I got off the treadmill and thought I was going to fall over. No time. Straight to the elliptical trainer. I understand now why all those Biggest Loser contestants always cry in the gym.

About the elliptical trainer...I've never used it for any amount of time. Why? Because I'm extremely uncoordinated at these things and I feel like a goober. She started me on the highest incline and I thought my legs were going to fall off. She lowered down to medium after 2 minutes and then to the lowest after another two minutes. Whew. I made it. But, oh no!!! We had to start back up at the highest incline and do it all over again. OUCH-a-RONI! I was getting a little better at the machine towards the end. The lady next to me didn't have to hold on to the arm things at all and was just running like she was in the park. Crazy.

Time for the bike. This was awesome. I don't know whether or not it was psychological but the bike was the easiest. I got to sit down! I rode for 10 minutes with her messing around with the resistance on that as well. My legs were burning but it wasn't unbearable. My butt hurt, though.

After that we moved over to the mat and got an exercise ball. I've already admitted my uncoordination and it showed with me trying to balance on that silly ball. I did the first couple of exercises okay. Then, she brought out the medicine ball. She threw it to me (I'm still sitting on the ball) and then I'm supposed to lean all the way back with the ball over my head, sit back up, touch my elbows to the exercise ball on each side and then throw it back. I wasn't doing them very well and I complained about feeling like I was going to fall off. She scooted up to hold my feet. That helped a little. But, I totally fell off that stinkin' ball. I told her! It was kind of funny, actually. She asked me if I did it on purpose. Now, why would I fall off on purpose? Anyway, she held my knees after that and I was able to do it okay. After we were done she sat on my ball and realized that I had good reason to be wobbly---it was under inflated and a little unstable. So, maybe next time I'll do better.

Time for stretching. This was the best part of the whole workout. My heart rate was down enough that I didn't feel like I wanted to hack up a lung and the stretching really felt great. When we were done she gave me my homework.

Here it is:

Mon/Wed: 30 minutes cardio on machine of choice (heart rate 149-168)
weight circuit 2 times w/ 15 reps each
abs 2 sets of 25 crunches

Tue/Thur: 45 minutes cardio on machine of choice (heart rate 149-155)
abs 2 sets of 25 crunches

Fri: More butt kicking w/ Jen

I asked her if I could make a pretty sheet that we can put stickers on. I think she thinks I'm weird. Doesn't she know that stickers will help me? ;) I'm totally making a chart.

Flock of Seagulls

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/flock-of-seagulls.html

Without Further Ado...

The stockings are finished. I had to re-knit the first one I did because I didn't do contrasting heel/toe/cuff. Then, I had to "doctor" up a second one because I did a contrasting heel/toe, but no cuff. That was a little tricky since you can't unravel from the top down. I ended up knitting up a cuff with the correct color and then cutting off the wrong one. I then just hand sewed it on. Can you tell which one it is from the picture? Anyway, I'm glad these are done so I can work on some other projects without feeling guilty.

Without Further Ado...

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/without-further-ado.html

Knitting? What Knitting?

By the end of the day today I will have all of the stockings done for Kayli. I may be up all night (not really--I'm so close---if the kids cooperate I may even have them in the mail to go out tonight). I'll post pictures of them tomorrow.

The stockings aren't a good traveling project so when I'm out and about I've been working on other things. I made a headband for my uncle Ron (as per his Christmas request) and now I'm using the leftover Cascade 220 to make a felted bag.

I'm going to need to make some more of my Nebraska ornaments. They are at a craft fair this weekend along with my other stuff. It's an in home show down the street from Wendy. I went to set up last night and I couldn't believe all the great stuff that this lady has. She's working on getting a website together but a lot of her things are made out of old chenille. She made the cutest little girl pants with fringe. Next time I go over I'll see if she'll let me post some pictures of things on my blog.

On Tuesday my favorite etsy seller had a yarn update. I sat by my computer and refreshed for a half hour until the yarn that I've been coveting came up. This is the self-striping Gryffindor colorway sock yarn. They will make fabulous socks and I can't wait until it gets here! She had 8 available and by the time I had finished selecting mine for purchase, they were all gone. I was lucky to get my skein while they lasted. I even got a Sockret Pal discount! Woohoo!

I think that's it for the knitting going on around here. I have a lot of things I want to finish up before Christmas and a lot of things I just want to finish (Carl's drunken argyle, for instance--haven't touched it for 2 months!). I only have so much time in the day for knitting. Those darn kids. They want food, attention, clean bottoms, etc...

In other news: Emmitt won! I wasn't sad. All of my votes went to Mario for his superb breakdancing skillz (I don't think I'm young or cool enough to spell it like that...but, oh well) but that doesn't mean I don't love Emmitt! I wonder who they'll get to dance on next season. I'd love to see Scott Baio on there!

Knitting? What Knitting?

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/knitting-what-knitting.html

Can't Help Myself!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/cant-help-myself.html

Recovering

I'm still in recovery from my cold. If you really thought I was going to have a chance to nap, you don't know my kids very well. I had a really tiring day yesterday and was feeling at my worst around 3:30pm.

Enrichment was last night. It was a pot luck and the theme was "Feasting Upon the Words of Christ". It was probably really good. I made my crazy breadsticks and sent them without me. I spent the evening in bed once Carl got home. I didn't sleep, but I did rest. I also watched Dancing with the Stars. He got my vote. Never mind the fact that I gorged myself on Saved by the Bell at youtube.com, he really deserves to win. I guess we'll find out tonight.

After Dancing with the Stars, they previewed the new William Shatner game show, Show Me the Money. They've got girls like Deal or No Deal but these are "dancers". Kind of slutty. We probably won't watch this show regularly--but not because we're against slutty, it's just not that good. Here were some highlights.

The contestant was Matt Marr. What? We freaked out for a second thinking it was Wendy's husband but then they said he was from Oklahoma (and he spelled his name with two 'r's. It was this guy with a man purse...admittedly homosexual. William Shatner introduced the dancers by saying something like, "This may not be your thing, but we've got 13 beautiful dancers!"

I guess this blog is about how I did nothing but lie in bed and watch tv last night. I also got to sleep in this morning since Carl got Caleb ready for the bus all by himself. I'm actually feeling better today. Eva is feeling better today, too. She was a stinker yesterday but I couldn't blame her...I was too! Tomorrow it's back to the gym.

Recovering

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/recovering.html

Day One of the Butt Kicking

I met my personal trainer yesterday. Jen. She's really tall, early twenties and wears lots of mascara. I like her. So far. The butt kicking really hasn't begun yet. We had our inital meeting and fitness evaluation. It was like Presidential Fitness on crack.

I'm going to post my lame stats just so when I'm done with my 6 weeks with the trainer I'll see how much I've improved.

Push ups: 20
Sit-ups: 24 in 60 seconds
Weight: 208 (holy moly) I've gained almost 15 lbs. in the last 3 months. I started a new medication then but I don't want to give that all the blame---it's probably not helping my cause, though. I'll check with my dr. in a couple of weeks.
Cardio: 3 minutes stair climbing to a cadence. She took my heart rate after this and I don't know my results but it was a definite workout.
Flexibility test: This was really hard for me. I had to reach out for this metal thing with a ruler. I didn't do too well. I've got a lot to "fold over" so to speak.

I also had to set some goals. I'm going to be working out 5X a week. We're starting with 3 days cardio/ 2 days weights. We'll eventually bump that up to 5 days cardio/3 days weights plus some at home ab work.

She asked me when I wanted to have our appointments. She gave me a couple options: Monday--to help me get started on the right track; Wednesday--to help me stay motivated through the week; or Friday--because I'm going to be so sore when she's done with me I'll need the weekend to recover. I'm going to see her on Friday. So, I'm officially starting this Friday. I'm taking these next few days to recover from an illness. Eva and I are both sick. It's mainly a wicked cough and body aches. We're trying to stay hydrated and medicated. I haven't been getting enough rest but hopefully today willl be a "calm" day at Casa Nelson and I can take a little nap.

Day One of the Butt Kicking

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/day-one-of-butt-kicking.html

Dancing in the Streets

Did you all watch the Nebraska football game yesterday? We were playing Texas A&M. Oklahoma played them last week. That was a nail biter of a game but nothing like yesterday's. It was 21-10 at halftime and then I stopped watching it. I went upstairs to knit and read. Carl came up when it was over and asked me if I wanted to see the end. I asked if we won. He said, "Can't you hear that?". We opened the front door and the neighbors were all hooting and hollering "Go BIG RED!" "Woohoo! Husker Nation!", etc... I said, "I guess we won." He had backed up the game for me (love that DVR!) so I could watch the last half. AMAZING! No wonder everyone was dancing in the streets. I'm glad I knew the outcome while I was watching it, though. Otherwise I might have been passed out on the floor.

Later that night we watched Kansas State kick the tar out of Texas. Looks like Nebraska is going to have a chance to play them again this year in the Big 12 Championship game. Should be a good one!

Gotta love that college football.

Dancing in the Streets

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/dancing-in-streets.html

Devil Inside

I'm doing a little bit of "live" blogging today. I took these pictures about 2 minutes ago. I finished a Christmas present for my sister (she knows she's getting this already) and took a picture of Caleb as my model. It's the Devil Hat from the SnB book by Debbie Stoller. It was really quick to knit up and I used Patons merino wool (LOVE IT!). It was a bonus that he happened to be wearing his Napolean Dynamite shirt today.

Now, on to Eva. Here she is enjoying a leisurely Saturday afternoon watching the game. I love the bit of belly that's hanging out and the lovely juice stains on her shirt. Classic.

I'm going to spend the rest of my knitting time today finishing up the Christmas stockings for Kayli. Have a great weekend!

Devil Inside

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/devil-inside.html

Photo Shoot

Caleb's been enjoying taking pictures these past few days. He asks me to get down the camera and take his picture. I have to turn the viewer around so he can see what he's doing and then he starts posing. I have about 75 of these over the past few days. They all look remarkably similar--except the shirt changes. Here is just a sampling.

You'll notice the different "looks". We've been practicing faces: silly, surprised, sad, happy, etc...

Enjoy!

Photo Shoot

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/photo-shoot.html

Looks Like We Made It

We're Kids Incorporated! I was searching around You Tube for some footage of Mario Lopez dancing on Saved By the Bell. Instead I found all sorts of videos from Kids Incorporated! This one was from the early days. Martika was only on for a season or two and Stacy (now known as Fergie) was still pretty young. My sister, Lisa, and I used to sing and dance to them all the time! She would always want to be Stacy. So, I was Rene (the girl that wasn't Martika or Stacy). You can see a little bit of Mario as the drummer. He gets a close-up in the middle of the song. Enjoy!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/looks-like-we-made-it-were-kids.html

Foot Soakin'

I had a little Arbonne get together last night and the kids got into the action. We used a peppermint foot scrub and then followed up with a peppermint lotion. I kept rubbing my feet together they were oh, so smooth!

A couple of weeks ago, Deb (the new queen of Arbonne) gave me the anti-aging skin care line to try. To go from nothing to 6 steps twice a day was kind of a stretch for me. Plus, I didn't see that it was really doing anything. I may be over 30 now but I don't think I'm wrinkly enough to see a big difference. So, I didn't think I was going to find anything that I liked.

Last night I showed them my eczema on my arms. Deb and her sister had me try the Intelligence rejuvenating cream. Julie (the sister) said that I would notice a difference the next day. I secretly scoffed at that. I had been using prescription lotion on it for months just to keep it from getting worse (it wasn't getting better). Hey, Catherine...remember my anthrax on my leg? Still there. Anyway, I woke up this morning and the spots on my arm were gone! What the heck? I couldn't believe it. So, I promptly emailed Deb to change my order! As soon as I got out of the shower this morning I could start to feel the flakiness return and it's starting to show up a little again so I'm anxiously awaiting my order so I can use it every day and get rid of the rings on my arms.

They have a balancing cream that is supposed to help with a lot of the symptoms I have from PCOS, as well. I'm SUPER skeptical about that working for me but now that the cream worked wonders, I may be willing to try it.

I didn't mean for this blog to turn into an Arbonne testimonial. I certainly don't have any ties to the company myself and wouldn't benefit financially if you all decide to go out and buy truckloads of it. I'm sure Deb wouldn't mind. ;)

I hope it truly was the cream that helped and it wasn't just because I'm having an excellent week...because I am!

Foot Soakin'

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/foot-soakin.html

I Voted!

I hauled myself down the block to the retirement community craft room and voted this morning. I took Eva with me and our ages together (I know she only adds 20 months) didn't even come close to the ages of the other people that were there voting. I guess the younger crowd (under 70) will show up later today. I did my civic duty and in the process had a lovely conversation with one of the poll workers.

Old lady working the poll: My! You've got a nice drivers license picture.

Me: Thank you! I actually wore makeup that day.

OLWTP: You'd be surprised how bad some people look in those whether they have on makeup or not.

Me: Yep.

OLWTP: I look at those all day and I've seen some doozies.

Me: I bet.

OLWTP: Okay, young lady. You go and do your duty now and vote.

Me: Thanks.

After I voted I took my ballot to the old man working the poll.

Old man working the poll: You sure were quick.

Me: I did my homework.

OMWTP: You young'uns can read those ballots without the magnifiers. I bet that helps.

Me: Yep. Have a great day.

OMWTP: Don't forget your sticker.

Me: I wouldn't dream of it.

OMWTP: And here's one for your cute baby.

Eva: BYE BYE!


There you have it. I voted and got complimented. What a great day. This week isn't sucking and that makes me happy.

I Voted!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/i-voted.html

Socks that Rock

I'm participating in Sockret Pal...and guess what? I have a pal that not only agrees that my new haircolor is fabulous, she sent me THIS STUFF!!!!

Do you see that? Socks that Rock? I really want to try it out but I've got to fight the urge until AFTER my Christmas rush. The colors are beautiful. In the tin is some shea butter. C'est french. Carl was ooh-la-la impressed as he is obsessed with all things frenchy.

My sockret pal must really be reading my blog. Lookie here!

Stamps! Knitting stamps! Could I be any more lucky? Probably not. This week has just taken a turn for the better, that's for sure!

Socks that Rock

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/socks-that-rock.html

Weekend Fun?

Well, the craft fair is over. I did as well as everyone else there...which is to say, crappy. But, I had fun! I sold almost all of the notebook/pen sets I made, some tile coasters and some magnets. Most of my sweater ornaments are already spoken for but I brought them anyway because I could always make more. Didn't even sell one! I was surprised about that. You can check out the products I had/have available at my new "business" blog sticksandstamps.blogspot.com. Here I will post things I have available for sale through me directly and announcements for any stamp camps I may be doing. I'm sure I'll mention here anytime it is updated so it's not the kind of blog you need to check every hour (like this one!).

I haven't blogged about my experience with Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. I didn't think I was going to be able to make it over. There wasn't any school last week so I had both kids with me and I wasn't prepared to take them there by myself. Luckily, Wendy called me to see if I wanted to go with her at 9pm on Thursday night. Perfect! Kids in bed. Husband home. I was free! It wasn't as exciting as any of the other visits that she was able to make over there (she actually saw them "MOVE THAT BUS!"--check out her blog for pics and story), but I'm so glad I was able to see it. We saw the back of Paul Dimeo (we are pretty sure about this) and we saw a lot of people with blue shirts throwing out trash in the big dumpster in front of the house. It was pure excitement, I tell ya! I'm not even going to bother posting my pics on here. Really, go read Wendy's blog and you'll get the full story of the excitement in town this week.

Hopefully things are going to slow down around here this week. Things aren't starting out so well. Caleb is still here. The bus is an hour late. Carl's just going to take him to school. Also, I'm watching the girls again today so I'm going to have a full house in about 30 minutes. If I get a chance, I'm going to call to set up my first meeting with the personal trainer for sometime this week! Woohoo!

Weekend Fun?

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/weekend-fun.html

Two Years...Still Nothing to Say

I've been doing this blogging thing for two years now. It started off innocently enough. I was joining in on the knit blogging phenomenon so I could participate in some of the events going on in blogworld. It wasn't too difficult to come up with a name. The Crafty Conservative. I signed up for a blog right after the 2004 elections. Remember those? The majority of knitbloggers that I read were going crazy about the election and frankly, I didn't agree with a lot of their opinions. I'm not as conservative as a lot of people but I certainly lean right on most things. I thought I could be a welcome place for people that share my values. Know what? I don't think I've blogged about politics at all and I'm not planning on starting anytime soon. But, other knitbloggers can know that there are some of us that voted for Bush and aren't disappointed with that decision (yet). As for this upcoming election, I'm still undecided--especially in our Senate race. It's been really nasty. I guess I am going to blog about politics right now. I have two choices. Ben Nelson- a middle of the road democrat or Pete Ricketts- a millionaire businessman republican with what seem to me some sound economic ideas. We shall see on Tuesday what I end up doing. All of the other races are pretty clear to me what I'm going to do and I am crossing party lines on a couple. Nebraska democrats are a LOT different than those found in some other states. Okay, I'm done.

Now back to what this blog is really about. More of my insane life.

Here is a picture of my whole face with the new hair color since Hollie requested it.

Hopefully this face will undergo some changes in the next few months. Plastic surgery? Nope. Not my style. But, I now have a PERSONAL TRAINER! What? How did that happen? I won a silent auction at the YMCA and now I have a personal trainer for 6 sessions. I'm asking for $ for Christmas to fund future sessions with said personal trainer. I'm asking for some other stuff too. Maybe you all should check out the updated 2006 version of the Nelson Christmas List blog! Carl still hasn't given me a list yet so you'll have to check back for that one.

You can also expect to hear more about the kids. Here we are enjoying a nice dinner courtesy of the Sunday School class I subbed for that week I had a REALLY BAD DAY at church. They asked Carl what I like to eat and he told them pizza, yellow cake and diet Pepsi. So, that's what I got! They also wrote me some really great apology notes. I think they'll be good if I sub for them anytime again.

I really need to wrap this post up. I only have a few hours before I have to go and set up for the craft fair. I'm not really as prepared for this one as I would like to be. But, I'm sure it will be fine. I'll probably do an update or so again in the next few days.

Two Years...Still Nothing to Say

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/two-yearsstill-nothing-to-say.html

We're Not in Kansas Anymore

I went to Kansas yesterday with my two kids in tow. I was going to visit my friend Kerry (still blogless) that just moved there from Indiana. It's a three hour drive through four states (even though Kansas borders Nebraska---the best road takes me on a fabulous journey through part of Iowa and Missouri). We had to leave the house because Carl was working on the kitchen floor and it just wasn't in our best interest to be around. So, I spent the day with Kerry and her boy Logan. Caleb did okay. By okay I mean instead of being a 7 or 8 on my agressive scale (sadly, normal), he was about a 3. This would be a good thing if he were at my house with no other kids. I would be thanking God for it being a "good day". But, he was torturing poor little Logan. Logan's 2 1/2 and is the same size as Eva. This isn't really all that small for a 2 1/2 yr. old since Eva is a giantess. Anyway, he's much smaller than Caleb and not used to the daily torment of a big kid. Logan didn't suffer any bodily harm (mainly psychological I'm sure) but Eva did. She came home with a nice scrape on her nose and a black eye. Caleb pushed her into the corner of a desk. Lovely. How many times this week can I get nominated for Mother of the Year?

I still count the day as a success. We had a good time. I had missed Kerry terribly but being with her again made it seem like it hasn't been almost 18 months since we've seen each other. Now that they live so close (yep, 3 hours is close here in the middle of nowhere) I'm sure we'll be able to see them more often (if they dare!).

In other news: It's been so much fun seeing everyone's Halloween costumes on their blogs. Does it make me feel a little guilty about skipping out this year? Not on your life.

Come back tomorrow for what I'm sure will be an underwhelming post marking my 2nd anniversary of blogging!

We're Not in Kansas Anymore

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/11/were-not-in-kansas-anymore.html

Nuts

I've been going a little nuts lately trying to get all of my stuff together for a craft fair this weekend. Time is slipping away from me and I haven't taken the time to do my blogging. I will be back (hopefully soon) but don't expect a post every day this week. I'm trying to get a "work" blog up and running as well. It's going to be a gallery for all of the things I make. I'm not allowed to sell my Stampin' Up copyrighted designs online, but I can show them to you (and if you want some you can buy them from me directly). It's also going to be where I post information about the craft fairs I'm going to and the stamp camps I'm going to hold.

Happy Halloween! Although, it could just be any other day around here since I've neglected to tell my kids about it. Mother of the year, I tell ya.

Nuts

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/nuts.html

Carrot Top

Spiced tea, my butt. I should have known. Friday--things were looking up. The kids were being better. But, there were signs. I accidentally spilled lemonade on our pizza. I cut the yarn on a project prematurely. Did I heed the warnings? Nope. I went right ahead and fought karma and dyed my hair on Friday night.

These pictures don't do it justice. It's much more orange in person. But, you know what? I don't care. It's growing on me. I'll just tell people it's for my Halloween costume. As Ronald McDonald. Annie, maybe?

Speaking of Halloween, I didn't finish the kids' costumes and I'm not going to. They won't notice. They would just run around the church parking lot and then demand "trick or treat" candy from me for weeks. Instead, I'm going to have them answer the door on Halloween night. It's one of their favorite things to do. They LOVE to answer the door. I did break out one of Caleb's old costumes. Eva loves it. He was a Harlem Globetrotter when he was 1. They have both been wearing that headband around the house. Caleb wore it to school and Friday and wouldn't take it off the whole day. They could always be Teletubbies again. They still play with those hats.


Here is Caleb waving to the camera. He likes to have me turn around the display so he can see himself while I take his picture. He keeps bringing me the camera. Tonight I gave him a mirror instead. That kept him occupied for a while. He kept making faces and waving to himself. Good times.

Carrot Top

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/carrot-top.html

Nothing to Blog About

I realized this morning that I have nothing to blog about today. Nada. Zip. So, I guess I have that to blog about.

Today has been one of those weird weeks where I get in a funk and can't get out. It started on Sunday. If you saw me sobbing at church it wasn't because I was feeling the Spirit...I was messed up. Monday. More of the same. Tuesday. Yep. Wednesday. A little better. Thursday. Could have been worse. Today? Well, the jury is still out.

I've spent most of the week with a hurt foot (treadmilling at the Y gone wrong) and a sore throat.

Last night I left the house and browsed our local CVS Pharmacy (previously Osco) that is just down the street. I was in search of a good cough drop and some more Claritin. I found all that and more.

IMAGINE A PICTURE OF A CLAIROL NATURAL INSTINCTS BOX HERE.
COLOR: SPICED TEA

I'm a little scared to do this today but I probably will. The way my week is going it could be disastrous. Or, it could be the turning point I need. What do you think? Discuss.

*While I hold all of your opinions in high regard, no matter what you say I'm going to do it anyway. I'm just like that. It will only last for 28 washes.*

Nothing to Blog About

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/nothing-to-blog-about.html

Adventures in Babysitting

Last week I did something that I should probably never do again (but I will, because I would want someone to do it for me). What is it, you ask? Babysit.

One of the coaches for the Nebraska volleyball team (they are number one and volleyball is *almost* as big as football around here) goes to our church. She has three kids. One is older--in my 12-13 yr. old Sunday School class. The other two are 4 and 2. Last Tuesday and Thursday morning I watched the younger girls. Granted, Caleb was at school for half of the time they were here. But, I had 4 kids under 4 running amok in my house.

Here are some of my observations.

Some kids can talk. Most of you know that Caleb isn't the best communicator in the world. If you'd like to hear any movie or commercial he's ever heard, that's great. Otherwise, nothing. Eva is getting a little more communicative. I can understand her grunts 80% of the time. 'More' and 'no' are her favorite words. And 'bye'. The two girls I watched can talk. Talk, talk, talk. "Why are you doing that?" "What's going on?" "Can I moosh up all this play doh in a big blob?" "Where's MiCaleb?"--they usually go to Kori's house on these days and she's got a little girl named Michaela.

I'm not very good at keeping track of 4 kids at a time. I was up fixing lunch and keeping the kids downstairs listening to music. The 4 yr. old came up and announced, "They're drawing on the wall!". Hmmm. Is it a coincidence that the day my kids decided to start drawing on the walls was a day that well-known wall artists were here? I don't know. But, I had blue marker on my yellow wall. I was too stressed to find a camera for blog purposes. I did think about it, though.

Later that day I found blue marker on my WHITE chair. Lovely. No amount off cleaners will make it back to normal. It was a hand me down, anyway. Luckily, I don't have nice things yet to really worry about.

Kids love to dance. Once I got them dancing, they stayed out of trouble. We had an excellent dance party and I was able to find the camera.

I'm not getting any more kids. I suppose nobody should really hold me to this because I may eat my words someday but I don't think I'm cut out to be a mother of more than two. Unless I have a live in nanny. Then, I would totally consider it. Or, I get pregnant. I would have to assume that is an act of God to make me temporarily fertile and who am I to deny this child that clearly needed to be born into my family.

Little girls are fun. These girls loved to play with dolls and pretend to be cheerleaders. That's right up my alley! The youngest kept going around saying "Go Huskers!". It was so cute.

I really did have a good time with these kids, all complaining aside. Caleb keeps asking if they're here as soon as he gets off the bus. Okay, they can come back anytime. I'm just hiding the markers.

Adventures in Babysitting

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/adventures-in-babysitting.html

Caleb playing piano

Here's our first attempt to upload video of Caleb playing the piano. He's still working out the right notes for "If You're Happy and You Know It". You'll hear him play that and then he plays the famous VeggieTales Silly Song, "Oh Where is My Hairbrush?".
He concludes his first blog concert by playing "Chopsticks".

He taught himself all of these songs. I did play chopsticks for him a couple of times and then he picked out the right notes on his own.

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/caleb-playing-piano-heres-our-first.html

Pumpkin Patch

Caleb's preschool had a family outing to a pumpkin patch last week. It was a little family operation out in Ceresco. They had a great time. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves today.

Pumpkin Patch

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/pumpkin-patch.html

International Scarf Exchange

These past couple of months I've been part of a scarf exchange. A lot of you have seen me working on a pretty cute purple scarf. Alas, it is not to be mine. I'm shipping it off today to a worthy recipient somewhere in this world. I do this in the hopes that I, too, will be the recipient of a package including a scarf that someone made for me. My friends, the scarf arrived. It is beautiful. And, it came from Oklahoma! What are the odds?

I've already blogged about it and posted pictures on the ISE3 site. Here is the link to my post.

scarfy goodness

International Scarf Exchange

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/international-scarf-exchange.html

White & Nerdy

Have I mentioned how much I love Donny Osmond?

I am a little nerdy myself but I think I came by most of it through marriage...not that there's anything wrong with that. ;)

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/white.html

Shuffle Meme

This is one of the funnest memes I've seen in a while. It's amazing how some of these work out so well!

Try it for yourself!

1-Put your music player on shuffle.
2-Press forward for each question.
3-Use the song title as the answer to the question.

How am I feeling today?

Alright, Janet Jackson---okay, this is pretty freaky.

Will I get far in life?

Shut Up, Black Eyed Peas--really, don't ask!

How do my friends see me?

Queen of the South, (chapter 2 audio book)--How sweet, y'all.

When will I get Married?

Bye Bye Bye, NSync---huh?

What is my best friend's theme song?
Spiderwebs, No Doubt--okay, this isn't working out so well.

What is the story of my life?
Lucky Star, Madonna --true that...at least the lucky part. I have yet to become a STAR!

What was highschool like?
Separate Ways, Journey--hmmm.

How am I going to get ahead in life?
Billie Jean, Michael Jackson--Well, Billie Jean is not my lover. She's just a girl.

What is the best thing about me?
Honestly Sincere, Bye Bye Birdie Soundtrack--this is hilarious.

How is today going to be?
Miss You Much, Janet Jackson--I do miss all of you much!

What is in store for this weekend?
Walk Away, Kelly Clarkson--Okay, but I'll be back!

What song describes my parents?
One Last Kiss, Bye Bye Birdie soundtrack --whatever.

What song describes your grandparents?
Boys, Britney Spears--this isn't working anymore.

How is my life going?
Ever the Same, Rob Thomas --BINGO!

What song will they play at my funeral?
Hold Me Now, Thompson Twins--Don't hold me at my funeral, please. But, love this song! I had the old 45 record of this and Doctor, Doctor. Good times.

How does the world see me?
Rag Doll, Aerosmith--really?

Will I have a happy life?
Every Little Thing She Does, Police--If every little thing I do is magic, I bet I will!

What do my friends really think of me?
Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Pat Benatar--what?

Do people secretly lust after me?

Come What May, Moulin Rouge soundtrack--yep.

How can I make myself happy?
Miss You (Dr. Dre remix), Rolling Stones--?

What should I do with my life?
Thank the Lord for the Nighttime, Neil Diamond--I should be thanking the Lord for more than the nighttime. I'll include Mr. Neil Diamond in that. He's the BOMB! ;)

Will I ever have children?
Wild Boys, Duran Duran--Maybe this is what my children are like?

What is some good advice for me?
Stacy's Mom, Fountains of Wayne--like, don't fall in love with a 13 yr. old's mom?

What is my signature dancing song?
Hey Ya!, Outkast--shake it like a polaroid picture, baby!

What do I think my current theme song is?
Put on a Happy Face, Bye Bye Birdie soundtrack--this was a good one.

What does everyone else think my current theme song is?
Black or White, Michael Jackson--It's true--black or white, they can be my baby!

What type of men/women do you like?
Escape, Enrique Iglesias--I do fancy myself a little Enrique.

What kind of kisser are you?
Sometimes, Britney Spears--ha ha ha

What's your style?
We Belong, Pat Benatar--I'm so inclusive.

What kind of lover are you?
Streetcorner Symphony, Rob Thomas--I was really hoping Satisfied by Richard Marx would come up. Oh well.

What would be playing on a first date?
Can't Get You Outta My Head, Kylie Minogue--whatever.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Like a Prayer, Madonna--at least it wasn't Fallin' to Pieces by Rob Thomas.

Shuffle Meme

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/shuffle-meme.html

Put Your Headphones On

I had a good 15 minutes of "peace" on Saturday when the kids decided to share the headphones on my shuffle. Of the songs that played during that time, "Separate Ways" by Journey elicited the most dancing.

Caleb really loves listening to the music with the headphones. The other morning the bus never showed up (a bad, bad thing--they didn't come until 9:20 and his school gets out at 10:50--Carl dropped him off at normal time, though) and we had a good hour to kill. He was all ready to go--he even had his backpack still on! I took off his backpack and gave him my shuffle. He laid on the floor with that thing and was still. STILL! I think I know what I'm getting him for Christmas! They have those kid friendly mp3 players that I'm sure he'll just love.

Eva liked the headphones but lately her entertainment of choice is "MO". Elmo? Nope. NEMO! She can't get enough of that movie. Anytime we're by the tv she'll point to the DVD player and say "MO MO MO?". She's starting to sound like seagulls from that movie. It's really cute. Needless to say, I'm quickly becoming an expert on on all things Nemo. Something I hadn't noticed before---the skull in the fish tank has a sign that says "Didn't Brush". Cute. Dentist office.

Put Your Headphones On

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/put-your-headphones-on.html

Koigu Kersti Killer

My socks of doom have arrived. Alas, I'm a dead sock warrior and I couldn't be happier! These socks are so nice. My assassin spared no expense and used Koigu Kersti in a beautiful colorway (browns and blues). They arrived yesterday. My competitive spirit gave way to a reality check when I realized I just don't have time to work on Sock Wars anymore anyway. So, I'm glad I'm dead. Yep...now on to other things.

Koigu Kersti Killer

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/koigu-kersti-killer.html

You're the Bomb

I was in Mexico for the better part of 1996 and 1997. I was a missionary and pretty much sheltered from the world. I fraternized with 21-23 year old women (all from Mexico) and 19-21 year old men (most from Mexico and some from the states). Getting letters from home was terribly important to us. We loved the mail and frequently shared our letters with others. Just the other day I found a paper stuffed in a book. It was a note I had written to another missionary explaining a program we were doing. Most of it was in Spanish, however, this particular missionary was from the states so I ended the note in English. It said,

"You're the bomb. I don't really know what this means but some high schooler wrote this in a letter to E. Idiart. What happened to 'rad' anyway?"

Here, I have written proof of the first time I ever used the phrase, "You're the bomb."

You're the Bomb

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/youre-bomb.html

Sweater No More

Sweetness. This was a sweater I made a year ago using Jo Sharp Silkroad yarn. I bought the yarn on clearance from my LYS. The yarn just wasn't the right fit for this kind of sweater. Plus, I knit it a little too big for my taste. So, I rarely wore it. I love looking at it, though. The colors are really great. It needs to become something else soon but it won't unless I take some drastic measures.

Today, I started to rip it out. This is how far I got before I was going to have to do some fanagaling of the arms. I don't know what I'm going to do with all of the yarn but some of it is going into a scarf for my ISE3 pal.

Sweater No More

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/sweater-no-more.html

Stockings

I've finished stocking number 2. This is going to count as my "pair" for my Sock a Month knit along. They are really turning out great and I have a good handle on the pattern (from my head) now. As I do the next stocking I'll write it out. Then, I'll try and follow it for the next ones. That should be pretty fool-proof (famous last words?) for anyone that wants to try making their own.

We've got the computer desk assembled. I LOVE IT! See that circle on the right? It's a USB hub. It's built in to the desk and I can just put my camera and ipod right there! Love it. Love it. I still need to put everything away on it. I'll save that for another day. For now, I'm going to cast on for another stocking!

Stockings

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/stockings.html

Well Conditioned

Have you ever had one of those mornings? The kind when you don't remember if you used conditioner so you do it again? And again? At least my hair is nice and soft today.

Well Conditioned

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/well-conditioned.html

Fashion Sense

I have no fashion sense at all. It's okay. My sister got that gene. I don't mind looking plain jane all of the time. A headline today caught my eye. Fertile women dress to impress. Maybe since I don't ovulate like a normal person, I'm exempt from dressing like one.

Fashion Sense

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/fashion-sense.html

Rallying the Troops

We have a lot of people helping us with Caleb. Here's the list.

1. Preschool Teacher-Teresa. She is the most fantastic teacher on the face of the earth. She does so much for the kids and the parents. Bless her.

2. Preschool Para-Linda. Linda tries everyday to make Caleb not afraid of the automatic flusher at school. He still won't go when he's there. He comes home off the bus and runs straight for the toilet. Poor kid.

3. Preschool Para-Mary. Mary taught Caleb how to say "I'm fine." when people ask "How are you?" He sometimes says it if you ask him other questions, but that's okay. He's learning.

4. Speech pathologist-Carol. Carol comes to my house every other week and listens to me. She encourages me to keep up the good work. She gives me hope things will get better. Next week she's even bringing in a behavioral specialist (Deb--haven't met her yet or I'd give her her own number) to help me with him here at home.

5. Occupational therapist-Jodi. Jodi just started working with Caleb. He's learning how to use scissors, do zippers and buttons, and draw pictures.

6. Behavioral Psychologist-Kiki. Yep, that's her name. Kiki has been working with Caleb for about three weeks. In a few weeks we'll have an actual diagnosis for Caleb thanks to her office. That's the one thing the school distric kind of hemmed and hawed about. They kept him labeled as developmentally delayed instead of doing more testing to figure out he is most likely somewhere within the autism spectrum disorder.

7. Friends here in town (and out)-All of them! There are so many people here that are supportive of me. They listen to me complain (when they all have problems of their own, too) and offer to help. Sometimes I take people up on these offers and I realize that I can make it.

8. Family. I didn't mean to put family last but they all live far away and the support they give is all emotional. Not less important, mind you. Just less tangible.

Rallying the Troops

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/rallying-troops.html

OU/TX

It's OU/TX weekend and we're pretty excited for the game. It's the best game of the year because even if we don't win, you're pretty much guaranteed an amazing game. We prefer to win, of course.

Boomer Sooner!

OU/TX

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/outx.html

Crack Part II

These are little 3X3 cards I made this morning while Caleb was at school. I got the mail when I went to meet him at the bus and the rest of the stocking yarn arrived. So, it's time to put away the cards and get knitting!

Crack Part II

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/crack-part-ii.html

The New Crack

For the past few days I've had a new obsession (other than knitting and thinking about how much I've "grown" as a person). Technically, it's not new. I've been doing this longer than I've been knitting. It's just starting to take over what little knitting time I have.

My name is Christy. I'm a stamper. I've been wanting to make little notecards and tags to go with the knitting projects I make. I also wanted to be able to send some card packs as gifts in the swaps I'm doing. In addition to that, I think that once I get a good design (for my knitting tags--not SU) I'll be able to sell these at my so far non-existent etsy shop. For the supplies and my time, I'd be able to sell my handmade cards for as much as you would spend for one in a store (about $2.00-3.00 including shipping). I'm going to have to break my way into some craft fairs.












I'm also a new Stampin' Up demonstrator. I have no plans to do any workshops or demonstrations at this time. I think I'll be able to support my habit through friends and family that want to order products and/or my handmade creations on etsy.

Market research: If you didn't make cards yourself, what kinds of cards would you buy? Birthday? Thank you? Blank? Holiday?
Would you want a set?

I better stop blogging and get creating.

The New Crack

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/new-crack.html

Perception

Six years ago we lived in Indiana. We had been married for two years and didn't have children (although we had been trying the whole length of our marriage). A year later I started fertility treatments. This involved me taking pills that made me have bigger mood swings than normal and cry all the time. After a few months of that, I had a surgery. Then, I had two cycles worth of shots that made my ovaries so sore and full I thought I was carrying around bowling balls. I went through all of this so I could have a baby.

During this time, I was super sensitive to other people and how they were with their kids. I was judgmental and sometimes rude. One family in particular had kids that were out of control. They would run away and get lost in the church building. Oh no! I thought, "What's wrong with these parents? Don't they care where their children are?". I saw moms that didn't hold or console their babies when they cried. How could a mother do that? Don't they realize how lucky they are to have those kids? They should take better care of them.

Well, I've learned a thing or two. I'm now the lucky parent. I have two precious children. I have no doubt they were meant to be in our family (I especially believe this about Caleb). I've also learned a thing or two about what it means to take care of kids.

Let me backtrack. The whole reason for this post is that on another blog I saw some comments about how appalled one of them was that there was a mother in Hallmark with a screaming newborn and she wasn't doing anything about it. She was just shopping for cards while the baby was crying. Five years ago, I would have totally agreed with this commenter. Not now. Some babies don't stop crying no matter what you do. This lady probably endures this kind of judgment each time she leaves her home. Should she never leave her house? I'm learning not to assume. I'm so mature. ;)

You know the family with the kids that would run away? We have become that family.

Caleb has started to see a behavioral psychologist once a week. He's getting diagnosed this month so we'll know where he falls in the spectrum. I've had to fill out loads of paperwork and surveys about his behavior, communication and social skills. I really hope this lady can help us. Caleb is getting so big that it's hard to restrain him when he lashes out. We need to find something that works with him...and fast.

In the waiting room at the psychologist's office, a lady came in and I overheard her conversation. She needed to sign a release so the LPD could get information about her child. A person had called DHS on her because they saw her doing a full body restraint on her daughter when she was flailing around avoiding getting into the carseat. Five years ago...that could have been me on the phone. Today? I turned to Carl and told him I'm glad that we haven't been reported yet. Carl told me that people that don't have kids with "issues" don't understand.

I don't want this to sound like we shouldn't step in when we know that there is real abuse happening. But, can we avoid the comments? "Oh, Timmy...look at that mommy! She's too busy to pick up her baby and that's why he's crying." "That kid is too tired to be shopping."
"Looks like he could use a whippin'."

I don't wish that people have to go through having a difficult child to understand what it is like. Just know that you don't always know what's going on.

Perception

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/perception.html

Trailers and Tents

First off, I was wondering...can my family be considered "white trash"?

Caleb and Carl slept in the tent in the backyard the other night. It was to make up for the night they actually went camping but had to come home because of a tornado. Caleb came in the next morning and said, "Did you have fun sleeping in the tent?" (this is how he communicates with us---telling us what we should be saying to him and then never answering the questions). He kept saying the word "tent" over and over. Later in the afternoon I heard him counting.

"Eight. Ninet. Tent. Elevent..." Makes total sense.

We bought a trailer for my bike. We also bought a new bike. I don't know which one is going to be mine yet. I'm going to take them both on test runs and see which one is the best for my behind. Carl's going to use the other one for research. Yes, folks. Carl is working with bikes and getting paid. That PhD is good for something. Apparently, making the biking world a better place.

I'm excited to have the trailer. I've been going to the Y in the mornings when I just have Eva and I'd like to switch that up a little bit by going on bike rides in the morning when Caleb is at school and heading to the Y in the late afternoon. Or, skipping the Y and just using my bike ride as my daily workout. Either way, it'll be fun. I've got classes lined up at the Y for most of this week so I probably won't ride my bike until Friday or sometime next week. I'll be sure and get some pictures.

Trailers and Tents

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/trailers-and-tents.html

Taking Stock

We bought a computer desk. It's not the one that I had posted that I wanted a month ago. Carl didn't approve. So, we bought a different one last night. Our bedroom is a "construction zone" but I should have it ready to go tonight or tomorrow. We're moving our old desk down into Caleb's room.

In other news, I've been commissioned by a friend from our old ward in Indiana to make some Christmas stockings. She didn't have a pattern but had an inspiration picture. These stockings are made out of wood.

Here's my version. This one is wheat and forest green heather Lion Brand Wool-ease. I made them on size 8 dpns. I'm making a total of 5 for her family and I'm going to write out the pattern as well. That way, if more kids come along I'll remember what the heck I did (or someone else can make them from my pattern). They are all going to be different color combinations (cranberry, grey, and navy are the other colors I'm working with).

I've also decided to make the kids' Halloween costumes again this year. Last year I knit Teletubbies hats (which STILL get worn quite regularly). I'm going with hats again this year. I'm not quite ready to divulge what yet. We'll see how they come along. But, I better get designing!

Taking Stock

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2006/10/taking-stock.html