Welcome 2013!

Tuesday.

So here we are in a new year, a new month. I find it a bit overwhelming at times to think we are already 13 yrs into a new century. Think about it, a new century and 13 yrs in...WOW! I don't have any resolutions to make; I don't usually make resolutions. I like my life of being a free spirit. That, of course, is not to say that I don't ever set goals for myself though, because I do...and I actually accomplish my goals too! Well, it's been nearly a year since I have posted in here and so I am setting myself another goal to refresh my blog, even if no one reads it but me, I am still happy. I think, at least for the moment, I will leave the format just the way I've had it. So without further ado, let's get to it...

Working out:

 I went to the gym today. Of course, being the first of the year and folks are making their resolutions to hit the gym, it was full. The elliptical precore machine I really like was already taken by the time I arrived, but not to worry, the bike I like was open so I spent some time there. Oh, and before I forget, I started out the month right with some weight loss to report~~~> I've lost a full 1/2"...proud of me! I also walked only 1.69 miles today; it was sooo cold out! I am thankful it was not icy or raining or anything, that would have definitely made it worse! Tomorrow is another day and I think I will check out a new class at the gym. Yes, setting new goals.

 Paying it Forward:  

So even though another year is over, doesn't mean that charitable knitting takes a vacation. Last year (2012 that is) I knitted and donated about 25 or so hats. I think this year I should make a new goal to knit at least 35 hats and maybe a few scarves. I'm being realistic here. I know 35 doesn't seem much, but seriously, I know my own limits. I could try for 52 hats in 52 wks, but that's a lofty goal, if it happens I can get more than the 35 made, then that will be great too. But I've set myself with a realistic goal.

Gardening Time:

Remember all those bulbs I planted out last year? They've all started to show themselves! I can't wait for all those beautiful flowers to bloom. Of course it will have to wait for a while, we are still in winter after all (~:} I think this year I am going to do something differently with my gardening plans...still working on ideas, so more later on that scope.

 In the Kitchen:  

I don't have anything really to report here...yet. I haven't been experimenting with too much lately. Although I will say, I did try some sprouted bread (I read it is a superfood) and find I like it very much. I've gone pretty much vegan, although the odd bit of cheese works it's way in occasionally. I'd rather not label myself, but I will say, I have set new goals for what to eat and what not to...thus the weight loss!

Fun and Up and Coming:

Recently I went to another opera at the Hult Center. This time it was The Pirates of Penzance, it was really quite fun. I had a seat just one row back from the stage, up close and personal, it was great! Also, the Bandon Retreat is on again this year and I need to get the last $50 pd in on my deposit. I think I should be able to do that this weekend. I can't wait to go again,last year was so much fun. Oh, and this weekend, Saturday, is the ECRG opening bout at the fairgrounds. I may go, but Amy told me about the NIA class that's going on Saturday and Al and Vickie are coming down from Portland again. I really enjoyed the last class they did with us and I have so missed Amy! so, we'll see if I go to derby or not. It's also been awfully cold and I'm not so sure I want to walk down there and back in it. I know I'll get warmed up right away, but it's that initial blast of cold that I want to avoid. LOL

 Randomness:

 Hmmm, well, I think I put everything pretty much together up there, didn't I? Hahaha...Okay, wait, here's something. I am polishing up my resume and am applying for another position at work. I am going to be sure it's an upward movement rather than a lateral movement though. This is for me and what I need, not what everyone else wants me to do!

And of course, on the needles right now:

Currently I am working on some fingerless mitts for my sister Mary. I made these:

The brown ones are for Mary, the pink ones are made from my hand-dyed March Pansies colorway. The pattern for these is Susies Reading Mitts I'm really loving this pattern. Then I have this:

Which is the Gingko Shoulderette pattern. I've decided to add beads to it and I have to say it's very time consuming to add each bead on separately! Back to the drawing board on this one; thinking of a new way to add beads. 

  And now I leave you with this:  

The new year begins in a snow-storm of white vows. ~George William Curtis 

I'll see you tomorrow, and until then...have a marvelous evening *smiles*