Aamas 2004 blog

Archive for May, 2010

A very charming novel by a bright author. I was worried about reading this because I can’t stand reading anything about animal abuse. But somehow Gruen writes so poignantly that I didn’t find myself cringing at the animal abuse as much as I did about the characters and the story. The ending isn’t as good of a redemption as I would have liked (you will find out what I’m talking about) but it’s good enough and such a pleasure all the way through. Especially if anyone has a Polish background it will be even more entertaining for you. I highly recommend this different book about old circuses, old folks and young, and those who like a romantic twist and of course, animals.
KitchenAid Cooks Pastry Cake

I bought this book because I LOVE amigurumi, I have just about every English crochet amigurumi book, and several Japanese amigurumi books.

Some pros:

1. Large full color photographs for each project.
2. The book is about the size of a magazine, so each pattern fits on 1-2 pages–I like that.
3. At the end of the book the author lets you know what yarn is used for each project.
4. The author uses different eyes for the projects–some are embroidered, some are safety eyes—gives you inspiration for using different types of eyes.
5. There are some patterns that are pretty unique—such as the lemur, koala bear, hippo, fish, fox and bumblebee. You do not see patterns for these all over the place like you do bears, puppies, owls, etc…….
6. There is a gauge given for each pattern, which is nice. That is not common in amigurumi books, and I like having a gauge for each pattern.
7. Very reasonably priced.
8. Lastly, this might sound odd, but I like that the author did not name the patterns with human names. The hippo pattern is simply called “Hippo”, not “Jenny the Hippo” (or whatever…)…for me it is harder to really personalize or make an amigurumi project when it already has a name. I like when patterns are just called “Elephant” not “Elizabeth Elephant”.

Okay the cons…..
1. The patterns could be written a little better. For example, typically in a crochet pattern whenever there is a round (or row) where there is an increase or decrease there is a stitch count given for that round (or row). This book does not have any stitch counts, so you never know how many stitches you should have per round. While this is not a problem to easily figure out how many stitches you should have while on Round 3, by the time you are on Round 18 after increasing and decreasing you really do not know how many stitches you should have.
2. I wish there were charts for the patterns–it would at least make up for the lack of stitch counts.
3. I have found some of the resu
Tiny Yarn Animals Amigurumi

For individuals who are used to older Windows versions, Windows 7 takes some time to get used to. Many of the previous drop-down menus are now grouped in different places, and are initially difficult to locate. I had a lot of trouble until I learned to use the “help” option whenever I can’t find something. (Click on the Question Mark icon wherever you see it.) After a few times, you’ll start to remember how to perform the same command when you need it.
Roy Rogers Best of

The new DSLR’s that include video need Class 6 SDHC cards to work effectively. This card does the trick. Any lower speed interrupts the transfer of data to the card and generates a stop and go effect. This card makes everything smooth and easy.
2x Digital Telephoto Professional

I’ve had the balance for a couple of weeks and it works great! No fuss no muss, just get on it and it does the rest (to a .1 lb)!
Retractable USB Cable for

I was a skeptic at first, but when I took this tool to my pooch I was AMAZED at the amount of hair it took off. My mastiff sheds all over the place but since I used this tool on her coat I have been having much less hair coming off of her in my house. It works best after a bath when the pets’ hair is dry. Word of warning, use it OUTSIDE because it is a very messy process. Amazon has the most reasonable prices for this item, my vet tried selling my the exact same tool for $60. This item is a MUST HAVE for any shedding pet owner.
Parisian Four Course Thank

IFS gives the most up-to-date info on the sport’s current and former champions as well as the up-and-comers. An excellent overview of the championship and professional circuit with stylish photos, this is THE magazine for fans.
International Figure Skating

I brought this on a long road trip last month and liked it a lot. It’s sturdy and doesn’t move a bit on most road surfaces (disclaimer: I drive a 2WD sedan so don’t go off road — can’t comment on how it works on crazy bumpy surfaces). It’s flexible — you can put it almost anywhere between the dashboard and the windshield. No cleaning necessary, no sticky stuff to deal with. When you don’t use it just stash it under the seat. I will use it all the time on trips long or short. Highly recommended.
Forever Collectibles NHL Western

I drive an hour each way to work everyday and audio books keep me sane. That said, when one comes along that makes me want to stay in the car – or find resons to be there – it must be more than good! This is a totally engaging story, performed by four excellent narrators. The story takes you to the inside of the privileged homes of the old south and through the experience of “the help” tells a real story of how it was in the 50’s and the coming of the age of change. I loved every character, became totally engaged in the action, laughed, became enraged, and embraced the emotions of each and every character. A great read – and an even greater listen!
Fat Bastard Cycling Jersey

I was very happy with how fast this product was shipped. It was in perfect condition and works great on our dog! I’m very happy with it and am glad that I ordered it from amazon because it saved some $$!
Bling Gems and Rhinestones