Monday, November 20, 2017

Alternatives

I recently had a very traumatic and painful (putting it mildly) experience with a cup of hot tea from Starbucks.

I've heard many stories about people spilling their McDonald's coffee or Starbuck's coffee in their laps and thought well, of course, they should know it's hot, and they should be careful. But I think the temperature of these beverages goes way beyond hot as in scalding. I felt sure that my skin must be melting right off of my body. Why does anything need to be that temperature!?.

I'm always very careful when handling a hot drink, but I think there was something wrong with the cup - it was so flimsy. I kept it and compared it with the cup from McDonald's the next day, and it was definitely not as sturdy.

The cup collapsed inward, the lid came off, and the tea went all over my hand, arm, and leg. Fortunately, my husband was driving because I'm sure I would have had an accident. I have never felt pain like that. I ended up with blisters anywhere the tea went and burns that are still somewhat painful. Obviously, I have no urge to revisit Starbucks at least for now - I'm really going to miss their hot chocolate!

But, the experience led me to look for alternatives, and I found several wonderful ones.

The Young Bean


The coffee is excellent as is the ambiance.


A beautiful tin ceiling.


Delicious baked goods!


And of course, plenty of beverages to choose from.


I didn't take a photo, but there is even a bookcase full of books in one corner!

Traders Cove Coffee Shop

This one has the added benefit of being located in Old New Castle - one of my favorite places to wander around. And it was a perfect fall day for a visit.

Located down a typical walkway.



I love this quote over the window from William Penn!


A very tasty quiche!


And of course, no visit to Old New Castle would be complete without a walk.


I hope everyone can find time in your busy schedules to enjoy a favorite beverage and maybe even discover an alternative to the more well-known coffee places in your area!

I would also like to wish those who observe Thanksgiving a very blessed day full of good food and happy times with family and friends!

Friday, November 3, 2017

Down The Ravelry Rabbit Hole

If I had blazing knitting skills some of the things I would love to knit are:

Aileas by Isabell Kraemer - I love the details.

Laika by Isabell Kramer - this might actually be in my skill set.

Ok, really, let's just say anything by Isabell Kramer.

Freia Frost by Trin-Annelie - minus the fringe/tassels.

2 days 1 night by Regina Moessmer

Kindling Mitts by Helen Stewart

Bleached by Amy Miller

Dawe by Amy Miller

Vanderbilt by Amy Miller

And again, I want to knit everything Amy Miller has designed - ha ha!

Seriously, Ravelry can be a dangerous place to visit but so much fun to dream and escape for awhile!

I finally finished Circumnavigate by Heidi Kirrmaier.


This piece marked a turning point for me. I made so many mistakes - just distracted and not paying attention I guess. I forced myself to make an effort to fix rather than rip the whole thing out and begin again. I certainly did that enough in the beginning when it kept ending up twisted.

It's quite possible that everything isn't perfect, but I can't see it. 😉 Now I just need to figure out how to block it.

I'm currently knitting Stella. Nice mindless, relaxing knitting which is much needed right now.



Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying some beautiful fall scenery!