It’s an American holiday based on it’s historical origins, but I really do think it is a holiday for everyone, as we are all human beings blessed by the One who gives us life. But I do feel sorry for the turkeys. So I fully endorse and support the annual Presidential pardon. =)

I’m guessing those that have a very full couple days ahead (filled with cooking, hosting, travelling, family, friends) started preparing for this holiday this past weekend. Hubby and myself, we took a weekend trip for ourselves instead. In alot of ways, it was a very insightful, difficult, but convicting weekend, and we came out of it with a stronger marriage and better communication skills (after all, don’t the genders live on different planets?). AND I got some crafting done while I was there (hey, in beautiful Monterey, I couldn’t resist!):

(Monterey as the background - beautiful, isn’t it?)

The conference came at such good timing. I’m reminded of the wonderful gifts bestowed to me - such blessings in my life! And in particular, my hubby, who is truly a gift from above. Not only is his presence instrumental in my life growth/transformation, but his presence in my life gives me an opportunity to learn about my own selfish tendencies/motivations (we all have them, don’t deny it!), and learn to love and sacrifice wholly and unconditionally. A little tangible taste of God’s love for me? I really do believe Someone is definately watching over me - my heart cup runneth over.

American or not, have a wonderful thanksgiving, wherever you are!

Lately, I’ve been attempting stitching of a different kind (by hand):

I’m still a beginner, so if you look closely, you might find a hole (I was watching X-Men and wasn’t paying attention and I tugged a thread a tad too hard). But by all means, please don’t look *too* closely. =) I was actually thinking of bringing my embroidery project (hoop and all) to a football game. Reason being, I originally wanted to bring a knitting WIP, but forgot to bring enough yarn to continue the project (I was at the end of a skein - DANG IT). But I came across an old familiar dilemma: Should I or shouldn’t I bring my project to such-and-such event?

KIP-ing:
I’ve seen plenty of discussion on where/when people feel knitting is inappropriate. In social settings, by now I think I have an okay gauge as to whether it’s appropriate or not (otherwise, I just ask hubby and he gives me an honest, nonknitter perspective). But sporting events, I’m not quite sure. Stitch ‘n Pitch proved that at baseball games is definately not a problem - baseball games are low-energy enough that I can just kick back and do a couple stitches (or rows). Basketball - too high energy. I’ll end up dropping a stitch while I’m yelling from my seat. Hockey - probably the same? But football? Wasn’t sure. But after going to the Cal/UCLA game, I concluded that I definately feel uncomfortable bringing a project to a college game - WAY too high energy for that. Not sure about NFL though..?

Hello Kitty Machine Review:

Because some of you requested it, here it is. I finally tried out the cute green machine. First of all, this machine IS NOT A TOY. It is an honest-to-goodness real machine, with real metal parts underneath the cutesy cover. Here’s a link to its specs: Janome Hello Kitty 11706. It is based on an actual Janome model: Janome Harmony 1017 Jem Lite. Because it’s not a full-sized machine (it’s a 3/4 size), it’s a tad smaller, and lighter (only 11 lbs).

Pros:
Threading machine was a cinch. I sewed a couple lines on some scrap fabric I had lying around… and was surprised at how SMOOTH and QUIET this machine is! The sewing speed is slower (550 sts/min) but steady, which is perfect for beginners. I can see how this can work great for light projects. I haven’t tested out how heavy fabrics work, but I was told that this machine performs surprisingly well with medium-ish fabrics too. I love the size and the light weight; it’s perfect as a backup machine or a portable machine. It comes with plenty of stitch variation (zigzag and blindhem) AND buttonhole. And a reverse stitch feature. And did I mention how cute it is?!

Cons:
It doesn’t have full features as would a full sized machine would have (but that’s expected). But for it’s size and price, it’s a good deal. It came with plastic bobbins, but other reviewers have recommended replacing them with metal ones instead. Another thing I noticed - when I stop sewing (when I lift my foot off the foot pedal), the machine doesn’t immediately stop sewing. It will actually “coast” for a couple more stitches until it slows down and stops. Mildly annoying, but I can live with that.