« Email Standard Time | Main | LOST recap! With visual aids!! »
October 05, 2005
More Reader Q & A. Then I have some Q, OK?
Reader Q: What happened to the blue sparkly hat you were making for Laina?
My A: Uh, I finished it. I sort of didn't count my gauge right, though and the hat? That's supposed to fit a human person? Could fit Giagantisaurus. So... the sparkle hat has been in a ziploc bag marinating in itself. I should probably rip it out but mohair is such a pain in the butt to rip. And it's not just mohair, it's mohair that I stranded with some fancy eyelash stuff. Perhaps some man-slave would like to come to my house and rip this out for me? And then maybe do the dishes?
Also, I'd like to take a moment here to personally say OH MY GOD LAINA I am SO SORRY that I am the lamest email corresponder ever, and that since this heinous project began at work I have done nothing but work, making me totally dull and boring, and also as previously mentioned, A HORRIBLE EMAILER. But I do miss you! Miss you! Much!


Q: Speaking of EMAIL, who is Mystery Email Person and did you meet online and why did you not tell me all the details TELL TELL TELL MUST KNOW NOW.
A, Part 1: Hi! Hello! More cowbell? Please?
It's nothing, really. Just ... I got an email that made me realize I had never used this particular form of communication in any capaicty other than the following:
1) work
2) complaining to Jennifer about work
3) being the unwilling recipient of chain letters.
I had not realized there were even MORE ways of the techmology complicating my life. I thought for sure I'd reached the apex of complication when I had to program my TiVo.
A, part 2: Actually, I don't believe in Online Dating. Or really in dating at all (see: bitter shell of a human) but Online Dating just seems... not so much something that's for me. I know it works for some people, but I have to meet someone in person first, then critique their grammar later. (And also, for the record, me? Have you not met me? FOUR CATS. DIVORCED. KNITTING. DRINKS A LOT. Can you imagine my online dating ad? The veritable stampede of emails? Yeah. Right. Say it with me again: FOUR CATS.)
- - -
Q: Are you really in a book somewhere?
A: Annie Modesitt, knitting goddess and all-around superstar, recently published a book of essays called "Cheaper Than Therapy" and yes, I am now officially A PUBLISHED AUTHOR, and therefore MY HEAD IS SO BIG I CAN BARELY STAND MYSELF, in fact my ego has to ride shotgun, because me! In a book! A real book! I hope you'll buy many copies of Annie's book and give them to ... Oprah. Annie needs to be on Oprah and be the first ever knitting person to be book of the month, and also maybe she could jump on the couch and proclaim her love for Patons Up Country and they would bring it back. (Yes, I am still bitter and mad that Patons discontinued Up Country yarn. EVIL YARN MARKETING PEOPLE.) Does one have to convert to Scientology to keep the good yarn around? Or marry Katie Homes?
- - -
Q: Did you really quit smoking?
A: Yep. I quit cold turkey the day that Peter Jennings died. Haven't smoked since! As of October 3rd, that's two whole months smoke free. Unless you count the Valley being on fire and inhaling 20,000 acres of smoke.
- - -
Q: Shouldn't you change the tagline of your webpage since you're divorced now?
A: Ah. the cruel laws of California. I won't be officially divorced until sometime in December, so technically I am still married. That's right, married! Except my husband is ... maybe invisible. And evil. Moving on!
- - -
Q: I would love to hear your thoughts on Cracker Barrel and/or Southern food in general. Also, you are having a dinner party and can invite any seven people (living or dead), who would be on your guest list? -- Jenna from Ohio
A: I once drove all the way from Los Angeles to Yuma, Arizona to eat at a Cracker Barrel. I wish I were kidding you ... but I am dead serious. FROM LOS ANGELES TO YUMA ARIZONA. But I love the hashbrown casserole, what can I say? I love food, Southern fried food. I love it. And if the closest I can get is Cracker Barrel, and the closest Cracker Barrel is Yuma, Arizona, then sometimes these are the steps we have to take... HASHBROWN CASSEROLE YA'LL.
Seven people to a dinner party, eh? Sounds lame, but I'm kind of homesick for my family, and we could fill a table for 14. Oh! And can we do it at a Cracker Barrel? I know it's like the McDonald's of Southern food, but please? Anyone? Hashbrown casserole?
- - -
Last minute addional Q: Did you know someone on the Washington Post chat was copying your writing and using it in the chat as their own? Seen here. Posted by someone calling themselves "Neurotic Too." -- from Paula
A: Uh... I don't know. That wasn't me. That's weird. Whoever you are, please stop doing that... Jen is a lawyer almost. SHE WILL CUT YOU WITH HER LAWYER-LIKE SKILLS. Yo yo. Word to your mother.
- - -
And now I have some questions for you. Ok, really just one question. Do ya'll ever listen to podcasts? Or watch videos and stuff online? Or video podcasts? What kinds of things -- knitting-ish things -- would entice and enthrall ya'll enough to actually download a podcast thingy or audio file or video file? Do people really do that or is it just a big lie from techmology writers, like laserdisc and the metric system?
Just curious. Ahem.
Posted by laurie at October 5, 2005 09:17 AM
Comments
So I'm not hypothetical after all?
Posted by: ~drew emborsky~ at October 5, 2005 10:01 AM
If someone would do a podcast about being divorced, drunk and covered in cat hair I would listen to every episode!
Posted by: ~drew emborsky~ at October 5, 2005 10:02 AM
The only webcast i've listened to is an interview of the fabulous knitter of all time, Stephanie Japel of glampyre.com. I'm also a big fan of your blog, so, dammit, if you were involved with a podcast I would download it.
Beth
Posted by: bess at October 5, 2005 10:04 AM
I have yet to listen to a podcast, but like Drew & Bess, being a big fan I would listen to yours.
Posted by: vanessa at October 5, 2005 10:07 AM
i don't know anything about podcasts.
i'm sorry. =(
Posted by: kendra at October 5, 2005 10:19 AM
I did once download a video of Fair Isle Color Knitting Techniques, but seeing as I live in Savannah GA, I have no need of sweaters, be they Fair Isle or not. Download video? Check. Actually WATCH video? Nope.
Maybe someday, when I move someplace cold.
OH! But I did also once download a video for grafting sock toes! And that was fantastic beyond words! Because it actually helped! Amazing!
P.S. I ADORE your blog. You should be rewarded with much wine and yarn for your kindness in providing laughter to other souls. ;)
Posted by: Kelli at October 5, 2005 10:23 AM
I watch videos and download music but I haven't gotten into podcasts just yet. I would if you did one though. Love you! (Not in the crazy stalker way, just much love.)
Posted by: Evil Lori at October 5, 2005 10:23 AM
Podcast YES! I listen to lots of news stories and just generally funny stuff on the internet plus I enjoy online video too. First heard Wendyknits this way.
Ya ought to have a bottle of wine and do a podcast. Then when we all wet ourselves we can blame you!
Posted by: Anne at October 5, 2005 10:24 AM
I recently discovered podcasts and have since subscribed to the Knitcast Podcast by Marie Irshad, and a Harry Potter one by Muggle.net.
As other people have said, I would most definitely listen to yours if you were to put one up :-D
Posted by: Lily at October 5, 2005 10:26 AM
For all ya wondering where here's the link - Geesh hard to believe it was last February.
http://www.podcast.net/show/42245
Posted by: Anne at October 5, 2005 10:29 AM
I'm with Lily. I never miss a KnitCast - www.knitcast.com
Julia
Posted by: julia at October 5, 2005 10:31 AM
I have listened to one podcast before, of an interview with my all-time favorite guitarist; Pete Huttlinger. I know, nobody's heard of him, but he's been in so many bands (including John Denver) and albums, and symphony orchestras, and competitions, and on and on, etc. To watch him play makes you believe in miracles, and also makes you think Eric Clapton isn't that good after all.
Now that I think of it, Pete's divorced (or soon to be), quite good looking, one of those Really Nice People, TALENTED, can serenade any woman all night long, and is (gasp) a southerner! He lives in Tennessee! Ask Drew if I should put on my matchmaking hat. Check him out at: http://www.petehuttlinger.com/index.htm
Posted by: Imaginary Maggie at October 5, 2005 10:37 AM
Hmmm, podcasts - sounds like an alien thing. but cracker barrel sounds good (sometimes I miss things like Jello salad and green bean casserole - can you spot the midwesterner? - but then I have a white trash party and make it all and no one questions it)
Posted by: lisaz at October 5, 2005 10:46 AM
I really like Podcasts. I would definitely listen to yours, Laurie.
Hypothetically, of course.
Posted by: ashbloem at October 5, 2005 10:49 AM
1. The hat - it's big. Felt it! It'll be small(er), fit a human head (maybe an adult, maybe a child) and (best part) it will look like you meant to do it!
2. Podcasts - love 'em. Knitcast, check. Also listen to things from NPR, WNYC (local radio), random things from the net. I like interviews with artists (I'm a scientist by day), human interest stories, and humor. Love the humor (that's why I love your site).
3. Congratulations on quitting smoking. Now I can read your blog for that many more years.
Posted by: Jenni at October 5, 2005 10:54 AM
Oh I forgot to mention that when I lived in Dallas I could see a Cracker Barrel from my driveway. Literally.
Posted by: ~drew emborsky~ at October 5, 2005 10:55 AM
Hi! Cracker Barrel? Love them, miss them, wish the Northeast would wake up to them. Hee.
As for the podcast, I would listen to it, once I figured out how to download it.
And I say go for the fixup with Pete Huttlinger. Ya never know!
Posted by: Mary in Boston at October 5, 2005 10:56 AM
Haven't tried podcasts but do listen to the radio (BBC; including the cricket, believe if or not) over the internet. If you're doing one I might give it a go.
I agree with Jenni. Felt the hat. But put it inside a pillowcase or something (securely fastened so the wool doesn't escape). Mohair can clog the drain on your washing machine in a nasty way.
Posted by: JoVE at October 5, 2005 10:58 AM
I didn't know there was such a thing as a podcast or a knitcast! Hmmmm... veddy interrrrresting. I've seen short videos of hysterical situations and commercials, but nothing longer than that! I'd definitely listen/watch anything you put up. I'd be in the "good" computer chair (my husband's) like that Bose commercial where the guy's hair is blowing backward however, I would have my own FOUR CATS there lying on the keyboard making mysterious things happen and draped on me dropping half of their fur that somehow fuses to any kind of fabric! Definitely, definitely, definitely. I love everything you do - including your mushroom hat. Maybe you could felt the mushroom hat down to size. If it goes too far, you could cut holes in it and have a cat coat ... just in case you ever have a cold day out there!
Posted by: MARY ERDMAN at October 5, 2005 10:59 AM
Felting is a great idea... but I don't know if it will felt. Let's see, the fuzzy yarn is made of 29% merino. 28% acrylic, 20% kid mohair, and 23% of something called "polyamide" which must come from the hide of the... polysheep?
Anyway, if this yarn is 43% not wool, will it felt? And the eyelash is of course all acrylic. What do ya'll think?
Posted by: laurie at October 5, 2005 11:02 AM
The freezer trick really works. Put the mohair in the freezer for a while, then frog away.
Wow I'm glad I only have to drive 1 hour for a Cracker Barrel. But I am really craving a "double-double" at In-N-Out!
Kathleen
Posted by: Kathleen at October 5, 2005 11:05 AM
I listen to podcasts pretty regularly. I selectively listen to KQED Forum (radio show), because I can't catch it live, and sometimes tune into the Al Franken show. There are a couple of comedic writers whose podcasts I have caught up with recently. But I don't think I'd listen to a blog on podcast. Nothing personal! It's just that I can cruise a blog or two while I'm at work on a mind-numbing conference call or something, but my iPod time is limited to commuting & is therefore in more precious supply. (An advantage of living close to work, I guess, is that I have more work goof-off time than commuting time.)
Posted by: rb at October 5, 2005 11:09 AM
I listen to the knitcast podcasts.
Posted by: Mary at October 5, 2005 11:12 AM
Maybe the big hat wants to be a small purse: thread a drawstring through it and see if it's happy.
Posted by: Beth at October 5, 2005 11:14 AM
Forgot to mention that I also miss Chic-fil-A and Sonic.
*sigh*
Posted by: Mary in Boston at October 5, 2005 11:14 AM
Ok, I have to tell you that everytime you mention more cowbells I nearly pee. I laugh so hard my eyes actually water and my coworker laughs at me (& I threaten to staple something to him...)
Thanks! :)
Posted by: Carma at October 5, 2005 11:16 AM
i watch the knitting videos that are on stitchguide.com and knittinghelp.com.
if you were to podcast, id prolly go and buy an ipod just to listen. for some reason, i cant get enough of your cats.
being a midwesterner (MI!) going to cracker barrel is like going to a family dinner. i never get the chance to miss green bean cassaroles and lots and lots and lots (and maybe a little more) starch. and being a Southerner, i bed you miss the words-banana pudding!
Posted by: Holly at October 5, 2005 11:30 AM
I heard freezing makes frogging mohair easysqueezy, too!
Online dating is the bomb, I met my husband that way.
Men that have bad grammar and are internet dating...ew.
Posted by: Lori at October 5, 2005 11:35 AM
I hate your work. Mostly because it keeps us from having the lengthy email chats I love so much.
Me with the knitting - i have ripped out the same scarf about 10 times now - I have yet managed to finish one more than half way. It is sad. I still love the knitting though and am looking forward to eventually learning to purl.
Are you coming to visit yoru family any time soon?
Posted by: Crystal at October 5, 2005 11:36 AM
Oh God I love Cracker Barrel.
Posted by: cheryl at October 5, 2005 11:54 AM
To answer your question: I listen to podcasts. I've listened to all the KnitCasts, and have my iTunes set up to automatically update my iPod with several of the podcasts available through NPR. Because I walk to work, and that way I can listen to NPR on my way to work.
And thank you. I am weirded out by internet dating a bit, too. I think I will hold out to meet someone in person. :)
Posted by: wenders at October 5, 2005 11:58 AM
I NEED MORE COWBELL!
Walken for President, 2008!!
Posted by: lelah at October 5, 2005 12:03 PM
Outing my own ignorance here...podcasts? That an iPod thing?
Why? Why do y'all gotta bring up the Cracker Barrel and the Sonic? Up here in Oregon we have commercials for 'em...but we don't have 'em. Now ain't that just cruel? Back in Colorado I lived within 5 minutes of both....mmmm....hashbrown casserole...tater tots....collard greens....burgers....help!
Please send hashbrown casserole and cherry limeade (Route 44 size).
Posted by: taral at October 5, 2005 12:04 PM
Lots to react to here--
Yes the hat will felt, at least the 49% that is mohair and wool. That'll be enough to bring the rest along for a ride, even the polyamino "fur". Just check it periodically while it's in the machine.
Cold turkey is great -- now if I could only give up food the same way. Save all those cigarette pennies and come to Philadelphia.
I've tried podcasts, but they don't like me, or my computer, or something. I want a podcast. I have an iPod, I want to join the modern world, but I seem to have too many luddite genes and I'm not allowed in.
Posted by: Anmiryam at October 5, 2005 12:06 PM
I love pod casts. I have never listened to one about knitting put knitting+iPod = happy happy!
Posted by: kate at October 5, 2005 12:25 PM
Gene, you fucker! Stole your spacer-stall commentary, Laurie. I think you should strangle him with your giant glittery phone cozy. I loves the Cracker Barrell too. And if you ever cast a pod, I would download it in a heartbeat. Or whenever I got a chance.
Posted by: Christina at October 5, 2005 12:31 PM
The hat is fine, it's just looking for someone with many tons of hair. Seriously--back when my brother had dreadlocks, my mom made him a hat about that same size.
If anyone knows how to get hashbrown casserole (or equivalent Southern fried comfort vegetable) in LA, it would be Jonathan Gold. He's got a great advice column in the LA Weekly where people write to tell him the food they've been looking for, and he tells them who in LA serves it ... just saying.
Posted by: jpt at October 5, 2005 12:32 PM
Can you felt the big hat?
Posted by: maxine at October 5, 2005 12:35 PM
If you go to Cracker Barrel in Yuma again, let me know. My SnB cronies, who also read your blog, would most certainly road trip as we live in Phoenix.
Ironic, I have a job interview there soon........
I haven't gotten into podcasts...yet.
Posted by: Sarah HB at October 5, 2005 12:40 PM
Cracker Barrel Rocks! I always order something that requires syrup - I just love those little bottles.
Podcasts - yes, ma'am. I listen to Pottercast and Sen. Barack Obama religiously. Obama is my Senator and his ideas on socioeconomic issues and responsible citizenship are truely inspiring and...and...okay, his voice makes my toes curl.
Posted by: Nancy at October 5, 2005 12:44 PM
Ooh, thanks for reminding me -- I need to go see if there's a new Knitcast!
I love podcasts but I don't have an iPod and am cheap, so I like free.
Posted by: Anne at October 5, 2005 12:49 PM
Oh Plu-LEASE tell me you are on the verge of doing Podcasts like I've been screaming at you about(see previous posts...)!!! Love, love LOVE them! I listen to Knitcast but she can get kind of droll after a bit..(must be the English Accent).I'd Love me some crazy Aunt Purl!! You could podcast on the virtues of Cracker Barrel and casseroles..as well as berating Paton's for discontinuing Up country!!
Posted by: Lesli at October 5, 2005 01:01 PM
Read your chapter; loved it! Good thing it was available on Annie's site... my library does not have this book! ~GASP~ What would I have done? Where would I have read this essay? (To para-phrase another southern lady.) Anywho -- good on you and keep up the writing.
Posted by: Jen at October 5, 2005 01:07 PM
I'm so totally with you on Cracker Barrel and the Hashbrown Casserole. And I like the Knitcast podcast.
Man, now I want to go visit my family in VA. So many Cracker Barrel's there. *drool*
Posted by: Emy at October 5, 2005 01:11 PM
Hey--I'm in Cheaper than Therapy too. Loved your essay. Enjoy our embiggening head--maybe it will get big enough to fill the big hat? Hope that Oprah lists the book and all that, and congrats on quitting smoking.
Posted by: lanea at October 5, 2005 01:22 PM
I am even worse with the techmology than you, dear, so I can't help you with the "pod-cast" question. However, I can tell you who my seven dinner-party people would be: Buck O'Neil, John Smoltz, Dave Parker, Joe Morgan, Jon Miller, Cal Ripken Jr, and Ed Delahanty. We shall sit around and talk baseball into the wee hours. No drinks for Ed, though. (I know, nobody asked, and I'm a nerd.) :)
I'm not a fan of the Cracker Barrel, but drop me off at any Waffle House and I'm a happy Southern girl! Any of y'all ever eat at Lizard's Thicket? Dumb name; FABULOUS food.
Posted by: Julie at October 5, 2005 01:25 PM
DO IT!!!!! then i'll buy the iPod Nano i've been drooling over! DO IT!!!! FUN!!! :-)
Posted by: donni at October 5, 2005 01:26 PM
Thanks for answering my Cracker Barrel question! Driving all the way to Yuma for the Barrel-Scarlett would be proud.
Posted by: Jenna at October 5, 2005 01:44 PM
Hey! About Laina's hat! Remember, Laina's head is kinda' big....maybe the hat would fit. You should ask her to measure the circumfrence of her head...Hi Laina! Yes, we do miss you at the WeHo SnB. HOWEVER, if the hat is still too big for Laina, maybe, now that Auntie Purl's head is so big from being a published author, it just may fit her!!! Hope to see you this Thursday! To tempt you, Auntie Dear, I have a little surprise for you....it's partially orange!
Posted by: Ellen B. at October 5, 2005 01:48 PM
I'm a news geek so watch a lot of online news reports. I also don't have cable, so watch music videos online. When I remember, I listen to some knitting podcast.
Posted by: Kathy at October 5, 2005 01:52 PM
Does cracker barrel have chicken fried steak? cuz apparently the emaciated image conscious people who feed LA refuse to believe that mystery beef pounded flat, battered, and deep fried then covered with creamy lardy goodness is nothing short of heaven!
Um, do podcasts require the use of an ipod? Video for a knitter is an indispensible thing. It's the only way I could learn how to do a provisional cast on and do short rows with wraps.
Also, I can't believe someone would have the gall to copy your post WORD FOR WORD. Sic em Jen!
Posted by: Jen at October 5, 2005 01:57 PM
i have been listening to podcasts on and off for the past 10 months or so. the only widely publicized knitting program i can find is the knitcast via wales. marie, the host, interviews a lot of other knitters and yarn shop owners. it's ok, a little dry. it reminds me of an old snl skit they used to do about public radio which had ana gasteyer and molly shannon talking about rice... not sure how one could produce an audio program on knitting that's EXCITING. how about spreading the word on how to get good deals on yarn?
Posted by: ann at October 5, 2005 02:27 PM
http://scifiville.typepad.com/knitcast/
The knitcasts are fabulous. :0)
Posted by: Emma at October 5, 2005 02:36 PM
If you're head is so big from being a published author, shouldn't you be able to wear the ginormous hat?
I don't listen to podcasts or watch videos online. But I'm 40 -- it might be a generational thing.
And finally, I'd just like to say how much I enjoy your blog. I check it every day and am disappointed when there's nothing there. You're a talented woman and I wish you all the best -- personally, professionally, and knitterly.
Posted by: sara at October 5, 2005 02:36 PM
Ack. Eye actually due no the difference between "you're" and "your." Sorry.
Posted by: sara at October 5, 2005 02:37 PM
Hey, if you ever want company on that drive to Yuma for Cracker Barrel, give me a call! I would drive from Northern California to Southern California and then on to Yuma for a visit to Cracker Barrel! I'm a born and bred Californian but I love me some Southern Fried Foods! (It doesn't help that my best friend is from Tennessee and she keeps enabling me .... ummm, fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, chicken fried steak, chicken and dumplings ... Oh, I need to stop! First time commenter but I love your blog!
Posted by: Karen at October 5, 2005 02:43 PM
I am SO with you on Cracker Barrel! In a past life, I worked there as a waitress, and I still eat there, shockingly enough.
My husband and I used to drive 2+ hours each way to go from the town we lived in in Vermont to Londonderry, NH. It was always a toss-up whether we ate at Cracker Barrel or Chick-Fil-A.
Where else outside the South can you get real sweet tea?!?
Posted by: Valerie at October 5, 2005 03:25 PM
I am tv free so we frequently download things to watch on our computers.Yes I know tv-free=freak right?
Whoever is posting your stuff sucks! Love you Laurie, Heidi
Posted by: IdahoHeidi at October 5, 2005 03:39 PM
They're totally a big techmology lie. Like Laserdiscs. And that girl is really, really odd and needs therapy in a bad way.
Posted by: Aarwenn at October 5, 2005 03:47 PM
Yes, I listen to podcasts. There's the knitcast one. And I like a yoga one (even though I haven't done yoga in AGES!). And some NPR stuff, news stuff, some music stuff...But of course, I can't find my iPod this week so it's all for naught. (or is it "not?")
Posted by: Rossana at October 5, 2005 03:48 PM
Also, isn't odd that her comments look retarded and crazy, taken out of context, in a Washington Post column? I think it's the Times New Roman. Which Must Die.
Posted by: Aarwenn at October 5, 2005 03:50 PM
I'm just thinking there are better folks to plagiarize. Did I even spell that right? Anyway. There really are better and funnier people to rip off. It's because I'm prolific -- so it waters down the witty. You sort of have to dig through 30,000 words around here to get to the witty. Although... now can I start telling people I was featured in the washington post? huh? can I? heh
Posted by: laurie at October 5, 2005 04:18 PM
just a note that podcasts are ALOT more time consuming than writing a blog. the editing process is more chaotic than writing. with a blog entry you write, look at it, move some words around, and POST!
with a podcast you've got way more variables:
audio quality,
background noise,
editing,
audio compression,
...and the reality that you have to get used to hearing your voice and that you'll likely have to re-record segments considering it will never be a 1 take scenario.
i'm not downlplaying the idea....its just.....well...hard.
Posted by: gillian at October 5, 2005 04:38 PM
Cracker Barrel was one of my favorite places to go back when I lived in North Dallas, it was one of the few places you could go (the others were Waffle House and Luby's) and actually get sweet tea. All the servers at other places would look at me like I was insane and try to convince me that I could just put sugar in iced tea. Yeah, uh huh, you think that sugar will go properly into COLD tea and yet I'm the insane one.
I'm also a big Waffle House fan, despite the general greasiness. I think you have to love a place that you can get your one sober friend to drive you to at 4 am for scrambled eggs with cheese. I have about a million great Waffle House stories.
Posted by: deety at October 5, 2005 04:58 PM
Oh Purl... gurl I live in the woods! We don't even have DSL, never mind cable and I refuse to pay $89.99/mo for satellite internet. Besides, in the woods, our satellite tv doesn't always work. Please, Auntie, keep to the written blog with only occasional podcasts? I can normally get a knit cast podcast downloaded in about an hour if there's no interference.
And this person copying your blog? Turn Jen loose! We have intellectual property laws for a reason - besides how can a northerner do southern-gal humor???
Posted by: Leslie at October 5, 2005 05:15 PM
p.s. Drew? You're special, not hypothetical, remember??? :P
Posted by: Leslie at October 5, 2005 05:16 PM
Ok... on the pod-thing.
Don't worry... I'm not jumping on this techmology bandwagon. I can't even set the clock on my microwave oven. That and the fact that I still call it "the microwave OVEN" you know?
This would be a one-time project with a friend who is the technical person, and it's just an experiment to see how well we work together and so on. I'm definitely more of a writer person than a pod person. Heh. POD PERSON. See? that's only funny written down. And also, not that funny even then. hmmm.
wine time!
Posted by: laurie at October 5, 2005 05:48 PM
I have another question for you...did you ever finish the mystery knit you were working on a while back...
Love your blog!
Posted by: Megan at October 5, 2005 05:59 PM
I've listened to a couple of those knitting pod cast thingies. The good ones of course. Is there something we should know??
Posted by: Vicki at October 5, 2005 06:01 PM
I do listen to a few podcasts. My favorite ones are the ones that are only weekly since I can't seem to keep up with anything more frequently than that. I would totally listen to a crazy aunt pearl podcast!
Posted by: Chelee at October 5, 2005 06:19 PM
cracker barrel rules! i like the fried apples, although they're not as good as mom's. and grits! gotta love the grits! the last time i was there, i fried apples and a meat biscuit, with country ham. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. good stuff. and there's TWO cracker barrels in the omaha metro area. come visit, i'll take ya!
Posted by: minnie at October 5, 2005 07:33 PM
I've listened to KnitCast, and Quirks and Quarks (currently off the air while the workers at CBC are locked out). But I'm not a big fan of them. I listen more when I'm in Winnipeg, where the bus rides are much longer.
Posted by: Andrea at October 5, 2005 08:16 PM
HASHBROWN CASSEROLE!! Yes. I LOVE Cracker Barrel for that (and many other) reason(s). However, they cannot do a dish of green beans that's worth ordering. I love your blog! I listen to some news/talk radio podcasts, makes the day go faster at work. Haven't found any knitting ones yet, but I'll have to look. If anyone has any recommendations, I'm game.....
Posted by: Cynthia at October 5, 2005 08:22 PM
Once upon a time, I had the recipe for Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole. Sadly, I've since lost it, but I do remember that it was in one of those "Top Secret Recipe" books by some guy named Todd Wilbur. He's got a bunch of them, so I'm afraid it might take a little while at the bookstore to locate which book it appears in. On the bright side, it was fairly easy, and started with a package of pre-hashed (is that a word? probably not.) frozen potatoes, so its not too complicated.
Posted by: Amelia at October 5, 2005 09:04 PM
have been listening to NPR podcasts and some political podcasts. Just downloaded a book to ipod via apple itunes. Wonderful invention. Hadn't know until today's post that knitting shows were available for download. I'm off to hunt for them now - Laurie, you could put your blog on audio. You've got enough fanatic, gotta=get-my-aunt-purl-fix readers who would follow to the podcast & you could pick up a whole new audience too. Maybe end up doing a book or two, a la Stephanie Pearl McPhee, only Southern Style!
Posted by: Victoria at October 5, 2005 09:11 PM
all i can say is i love hashbrown casserole and am proud of it!! particularily, i like to talk about it with food snobs. i like to eat at nice places and cook from fancy books, etc. but! i am no food snob. i love the look on people's face after i have been talking about shmancy shit and then i talk about hashbrown casserole. priceless.
oh and i have no idea what your are talking about with regards to podcasts......me dumb
Posted by: jana at October 5, 2005 10:31 PM
OH YES!! Podcast for us Laurie!
Per favore! Ti prego!
Posted by: zib at October 6, 2005 12:06 AM
I fear that podcasts and such just ain't my thang. But Hashbrown Casserole, that is the food of the Gods. I learned that recipe long ago, so now even though we have moved far from our Southern home in North Carolina, we can still have hashbrown casserole anytime we want. The chilcken and dumplings are yummy too. Man I hear the menu for supper just clanking along in my mind. Thanks for reminding me.
Cindi - the newbie blogger who reads more than she writes
Posted by: Cindi at October 6, 2005 01:07 AM
I do Knitcast, Glass Talk and the Mugglenet podcasts. I would definitely like to hear yours! I't would be like a knit-drink-cat-pet-a-long.
Alma
aka the Chickengoddess
Posted by: The Chickengoddess at October 6, 2005 03:54 AM
Google is your friend:
Hash Brown Casserole like Cracker Barrel's®
Prep. Time: 0:45
Serves: 8
10.25 oz. can condensed cream of chicken soup
8 oz. Colby cheese - grated
1/2 cup melted butter OR margarine
1 sm. onion - minced
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 lb. bag frozen shredded hash browns
1. Spray a 13" X 9" X 2" baking pan with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine soup, cheese, butter, onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently fold the potatoes into the mixture and pour into prepared pan.
4. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 35-40 minutes, until heated through and top is browned.
Posted by: Debbi at October 6, 2005 04:01 AM
Ya know, I read that Post thing, and I thought that sounded familiar at the time. Just chalk it up to good old fashioned adoration. You're famous now!
Podcasts are groovy, and I've actually listened to the knitting show a few times. I think that you, if, you know, this was the case and all, would be able to come up with a brilliant show--knitting and funny, all wrapped up in one.
Keep up the fantastic blogging. And congratulations on the smoking thing. We're proud out here in blogland.
Posted by: Wednesday's Child at October 6, 2005 05:49 AM
I just love your blog and the liberal use of the word "techmology"!! I *heart* people who make up their own words/language. My other fav. new word is 'gubernment'--only used in context when bitching about the current state of ours. But anyway...I've seen people downloaded pod casts before (my ex- was really into them...) but I've never downloaded one myself. Is this one of the many projects you're working on?
Astasky
Posted by: Astasky at October 6, 2005 06:21 AM
Podcasts? Never listened to one. But, since I now have broadband at home I might give it a go if the crazy cat lady is involved.
Hashbrown casserole? Cracker Barrel's has ALWAYS been my favorite. I order it every time I eat there. Until.... I tried it at a local restuarant, Blue Plate Cafe, and found it to be even better. Who would have thought?
Posted by: Risë at October 6, 2005 07:11 AM
PUBLISHED!!!!!!!!
I TOLD you that you're a writer. now we just have to get Laurie Notaro's agent to read your stuff and then you'll be world wide baby! Just think, you'll be in every Borders display window. Now you're not petty and revenge minded - but I am! - but just think how X will feel when your creativity has far outshown his! And you didn't have to act like a heartless ass, buy a sports car or grow a goatee to get it!
love you cat lady!
Posted by: Just Grace at October 6, 2005 07:29 AM
"hear, hear!" to what Just Grace just said.
Crazy Aunt Purl you are the Best and congrats on everything!
Posted by: Mani at October 6, 2005 07:56 AM
The natural fiber parts will felt, the un-natural parts won't. By felting it, the mohair should tighten up (tho I've never felted 100% mohair so I'm not sure how much it shrinks) and it will make the furry parts more fluffy. I've made a lot of felted purses with novelty stripes or trim and they come out great. Just remember, for the health of your washer (unless you like entertaining the plumber and/or the appliance repairman), to put the item to be felted in a zippered pillowcase to catch all the lint. I don't have an ipod (and I don't think my daughters would let me download knitting casts on theirs!) so no poscasts, but I watch newsclips, knitting techniques, and music vids on the computer a lot. Try the llama song at AlbinoBlacksheep.com. Also, the Cracker Barrel? Breakfast anytime? Love it. Have one 10 min from my house. Can I overnight you a hashbrown casserole?
Posted by: Tish at October 6, 2005 08:04 AM
I would read or listen to anything by you. And I love that hashbrown casserole. I once looked down at my Cracker Barrel veggie plate and realized that I had 3 kinds of potatos.
Posted by: Emily at October 6, 2005 08:21 AM
I would listen to a podcast if it were posted with detailed instructions on how to make it do whatever it is supposed to do!
And I almost flew across the country for In-n-Out, so I understand your need to drive to Cracker Barrel.
Posted by: MeBeth at October 6, 2005 09:06 AM
Hey. Don't strangle Gene. Someone should tell him, I think he'd be PO'd about it. Or annoyed, at least. Hey. I am going to be someone and give him the heads up. Plagerism is wrong. :)
And you don't need an iPod for podcasting.
Posted by: wenders at October 6, 2005 10:21 AM
That is shocking that someone is ripping you off like that!! Too bad there's no link to the post so you could harass the person.
Though a nice email to the columnist might be good -- and maybe he'd turn the whole issue into a funny column thus garnering you more readership. Not that with 88 commenters already, you need more readership.
Posted by: cant_talk_knitting at October 6, 2005 10:26 AM
i like podcasts alot because they let my mind knit while i toil at computer data. rock it.
Posted by: laura at October 6, 2005 10:34 AM
yo yo, word to your mother... girl you did that all wrong!!! YO! YO! word 2 yo mutha! HAHA!!
Posted by: Koolbreeze at October 6, 2005 10:42 AM
The guy in the fat albert cartoons...Dumb Donald...I have a similar post about a hat where I mention the same thing!
How well do you think hashbrown casserole would ship???
Posted by: ck at October 6, 2005 11:28 AM
Congratulations on quitting smoking. I quit January 1st, 2005 and I know its realllllllllllllllly hard! I'm so *&^&*#$%# ing glad I quit. I could just sh*t. Hang in there. Love your blog.
P.S. The nicotine patches work great.
Posted by: kAREN at October 6, 2005 11:41 AM
I never saw the cowbell thing on SNL, but I did find this:
http://gorillamask.net/morecowbell.shtml
and I got to see the skit.
Posted by: kathleen2 at October 6, 2005 12:11 PM
ok.like. I. need. cat. pictures.
Posted by: cheryl at October 6, 2005 12:28 PM
Hi Laurie! No prob, I totally understand. I've been WICKED busy, too. I finally found an apartment (see pics on my blog a few entries back) for Nov. 1st, started grad school a few weeks ago, got a job, blah blah blah. So where there was once LOTS of free time for knitting and the internets, now there is practically NONE. I have still been reading your blog, though, and keeping abrest of all the craziness! I have to say, your horoscopes have been spot on (I'm a Leo, in case you forgot). Actually, the month you advised me to buy a notebook, I had JUST DONE SO THE DAY BEFORE. You have the gift...
Posted by: Laina at October 6, 2005 01:28 PM
You rock, Aunt Purl...I'm not a podcaster (I don't even own a microwave)...a reader...so, write on, 'cuz, girl you crazy (like a fox).
Posted by: kd at October 6, 2005 03:14 PM
random comments sorta added together to be really cryptic: You said you had the big head from your book, well then I guess you made the perfect hat for the situation then.
And sorry I thought a podcast was a casting call for pods in "invasion of the body snatchers."
You just keep being you and everything will be hunky-dory.
David
Posted by: David at October 6, 2005 05:21 PM
I have Cheaper Than Therapy!!! My friend Amy is also in it!!!
I am off to read your story...
Posted by: Devon at October 6, 2005 05:24 PM
I want a podcast! I don't care if it's audio or A/V, but all I have is the Marie Irshad thing, and they're SPARSE. I want MORE. NOW. DO IT. I'LL HELP.
(and could you heat it on that spoon over there? My hands are tied.)
Posted by: Sonya at October 7, 2005 12:00 PM
I've listened to a couple of the Knitcast podcasts - they're ok I guess. I like cinecast (movie reviews) and you can also listen to Ebert and Roper via podcast.
Posted by: Melissa at October 7, 2005 01:21 PM
OH MY GOD!!!!! Sister If I lived in Southern Cali (and right now I wish I did...it's FREEZING up here in the Sierra's) You and I would make a monthly trip to AZ to eat at a Cracker Barrel. I could eat every meal there.
I grew up in Virginia (and don't let anyone tell you that's not the south, or you will see a crazy SOUTHERN woman go off...Y'all) and I miss it. ahhhh the SUnday mornings after church rocking on the chairs outside the CB waiting for a table.
DAMN now I am craving it. Too bad AZ is a bit further drive for me. Plus 2 toddlers and a 8 month old prpbably wouldn't be in for a three day trip. DAMN.
Posted by: Jenn at October 8, 2005 08:31 AM
If someone is stealing your content and republishing it as their own writing you can have them shut down if you want to. Since it's the Washington Post, and their forum is moderated, just contact the moderator with a link to the offending post and to your original post and ask that the post in question be removed from their site. They will take it very seriously because if they don't you can contact their server with a cease and desist request and their server will shut down the entire site if there's a copyright violation. It might sound harsh but you have a right to protect your work from people who use it without crediting you. I have found my stuff on other sites before and always contact the people asking them to please credit me with a link to my site if they are going to use my content. That's only fair.
Posted by: jodi at October 11, 2005 02:56 PM
Well yeah!! You have every right to ask this
imposter to shut up and stop trying to be as funny as you. Too bad we couldnt get a flaming box O cat poo delivered to the offender. Nothing says "back off beyotch !!"like the box-O-poo-gram....AND I just wanted to let you know I bought JUMBO needles and yarn yesterday..cause you INSPIRE!!!!!congtats on the no smoking!
YOU ROCK!!uh....was the cowbell thing on SNL when they were impersonating Blue Oyster Cult..and Will Farrell had on this way too small shirt and was writhing around with his bug- bugga hanging out whilst hammering on the cowbell??Just curious....
Posted by: schnoobie at October 11, 2005 08:05 PM
i saw a cracker barrel this weekend on route 20 going towards sturbridge mass. i really did. they aren't in red states anymore.
Posted by: maryse at October 12, 2005 10:51 AM
There used to be a Cracker Barrel in Lakewood, at Palo Verde and South Street, a mile from the 605 and 91 freeway intersection.
It went away about 2 years ago.
I feel for your pain.
Posted by: Karen Williams at October 27, 2005 11:58 AM
The thing that seperates us from animals is the ability to gamble and bet. Have you seen cheat at online poker http://free-online-poker.g4h5.com cheat at online poker betting on real money? Visit cheat at online poker - homepage of best cheat at online poker site on net. Why look for you own favorite when cheat at online poker is everyones favorite?
Posted by: cheat at online poker at December 4, 2005 06:24 PM
I only visit progressive slot http://progressiveslots.bravehost.com progressive slot for progressive slot. Never anything else! No, check progressive slot for much more. progressive slot http://progressiveslots.bravehost.com progressive slot tournaments are now available.
Posted by: progressive slot at December 6, 2005 04:09 AM
Very interesting! I liked it! when Round is Soldier it will Percieve Mistery: http://www.theonion.com/ , Profound Round Love or not Green Table Roll or not , when Game Roll Player Lose Round will Mistery unconditionally
Posted by: Evan Ford at December 6, 2005 05:57 PM
Listen you all! A new site is in town - check it play free poker online - full with details and information. Many games, great play free poker online variety at play free poker online http://freepokeronline.bravehost.com play free poker online. play free poker online http://freepokeronline.bravehost.com play free poker online is there, and if you wonder - play free poker online is your luck calling!
Posted by: play free poker online at December 7, 2005 03:19 PM
win slot machine is there, and if you wonder - win slot machine is your luck calling! Join friends at win slot machine http://www.weierunique.com/Slots/how-to-win-at-slot-machine.asp win slot machine. Hi, wanna experience win slot machine then come along.
Posted by: win slot machine at December 13, 2005 04:27 PM
craps dices http://www.weierunique.com/Craps/craps-dice.asp craps dices - made for winners. Enjoy it! Why look for you own favorite when craps dices is everyones favorite? craps dices http://www.weierunique.com/Craps/craps-dice.asp craps dices, secure, fun, pleasure to gamble and win.
Posted by: craps dices at December 27, 2005 03:40 AM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 11:58 AM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 11:59 AM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 12:00 PM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 12:02 PM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 12:02 PM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 12:04 PM
Site was very interesting for me
I wish you and your site everything best!
http://wafflehousemenu.narod.ru/online-houseplan/ online houseplan
Posted by: Oscar at February 9, 2006 12:04 PM
Thank you for the source. Keep up the good work!
Feel free to visit my resources.
Contact me to request links exchange! http://workmens.narod.ru/workmans-compensation-insurance/ workmans compensation insurance
Posted by: Jason at February 27, 2006 02:19 AM







