At what point

When does the parent have to take responsibility for what their children eat? Why would anyone want the government to dictate that for you? I suppose there are those parents that are perhaps just plain lazy and/or don't care? Some may say because they don't know the proper nutrition and to that I say you would have to be living in a cave to not know that fast food french fries aren't as healthy as apple slices. I don't know, but it does perturb me that there is now a county in California (Santa Clara to be exact) that is banning the toys that come with your child's Happy Meals at McDonald's. Why? Because the S.C. County government believes it contributes to the children's obesity rate there. I know the toys are marketed with the intent to draw your child into the Happy Meals, but it's not like McD's doesn't have healthier options for your children. What about the marketing ploys of grocery stores? When was the last time you saw Cap'n Crunch or Froot Loops cereals on the top shelf, out of the direct line of view of your child? And what about the candy bar racks right at the checkout stands? Oh, and Santa Clara, will you also ban the ice cream vendors driving through the neighborhoods? I personally hope McD's keeps the toys, but maybe puts them with those healthier choices. What are your thoughts on this?

I have cast on for another charity blankie that could actually be used for a small newborn or a large preemie. This is my favorite pattern, Julie's Pinkie Blankie. It's perfect for this time of year when your baby doesn't really need a heavy worsted weight blankie. It can pretty much be knitted with any weight though, but since it's lace, I prefer a light weight yarn for a baby. I've actually considered doing a full size afghan for me and Scooter, out of some nice squishy worsted weight yarn. For this particular blankie, I'm using Bernat Softee Baby in the colorway of Summer Ombre. I've got a couple of skeins left of this in my 'charity' stash, so will also make matching hats, as well as maybe booties and mitts. 'Sets' like that are so nice for parents to receive, and I get so much pleasure out of making them!

I'm hoping to cast on soon for another cardigan, and work on a couple of other things already on the needles that need to come off. I haven't decided on which cardigan yet, but I have a couple in mind, so I'll have to get back to you on that.

The weather here in northern California promises to be on its best behavior this weekend. In the 70's (Farenheit) and then into the 80's on Tuesday...YESSS!! Perfect for bbq-ing, and hopefully shopping for that hot tub we're still wanting to put in. We came to a stalemate on that last year when I first became aware of the Swim Spa and decided that's what we should have. Scooter, on the other hand, just wants a small hot tub, maybe a 4 seater. I have always loved the water, have always had a pool, and while I'm not sure I want the upkeep of a pool anymore or losing a good portion of my fruit trees to put one in, a swim spa would be awesome for the exercise value, as well as the relaxation. In any case, it's going to be a fantastic weekend and I'm looking forward to spending it with Scooter and family!

Enjoy your weekend!