Odds and Ends

Listening to: kd lang, Absolute Torch and Twang

Parents' Celebration
I wrote about this last time, but didn't put up pics. So here ya go. Cake #1 - white chocolate with raspberry filling and a rich rich cream cheese icing. The topper is original from Mom & Dad's wedding. Patty made the cake, and all of the incredible scrollwork.


Cake #2 - moist and thick chocolate cake, same raspberry filling, chocolate ganache, fresh rosebuds.

We also had a table full of memories - Mom's wedding gown and headpiece, Dad's white sport coat, and the maid of honor's dress (my aunt Marilyn). Mom had pulled out her wedding album and the guest book, so those were displayed as well.

I will put up more pics when I get them - Mom handed her camera to a friend to take random shots and has only downloaded them to her computer which is slow as mud. The plan is to transfer the to a flash and load them from a computer with something other than dialup!

Sadness
Last time I mentioned my aunt Linda. She passed away June 29. She was an amazing woman, an inspiration not just to me, but to the many kids who passed through her science classroom in junior high. It was rare not to see a big smile on her face.

The funeral was held in Albion, Illinois, graveside services at the cemetary in Witt. There were some interesting moments when we just knew she was looking down at us, having a good laugh at our expense. Joe played guitar for Rebecca and me to sing Amazing Grace. The ladies of the Christian Church in Witt had a nice dinner for us after, and we lingered long talking to family and friends, many we'd just seen at Mom & Dad's anniversary.

Project Status
Barn Raising afghan - all squares have been crocheted around in RED. When I lay then out on the bed, it looks so happy and scrappy! I've started stitching them together, but it's slow going, and tough on the eyes.
Hot Pink Cotton Toddler Dress - making good progress. This is my current train knitting, so it should go quickly.
Spinning - Sverre's fleece came. VERY soft. I spun up a quick sample that came out thick and thin, enough to knit a short scarf with a buttonhole to pull the end through. I have two bobbins full of more consistent singles that will be plied.

Plans
This weekend can't come any sooner! Last night's call with the husband was a tease... tomatoes ripening, zukes ready to pick, blackberries loaded. Mmmmm. And the heat should be easing off a bit.