Knitsense

Rockin' and a Ravelin'

2007-07-09T01:00:00.000-05:00

It took about five, maybe six, weeks until I received my Ravelry invitation. During that time, I was so envious every time I heard or read about someone joining Ravelry. I was not patient... Ugh! When will I get my invitation? Well, I can now proudly exclaim "I am a Raveler!"

For those of you still waiting for your invites...they will come. And, take it from me...the later the better...because once you get going on Ravelry, it will consume you. It will reach epidemic proportions. I swear, we're going to need a vaccine for this!

Now, it you haven't actually signed up to get your name on the list yet...run the other way as fast as you can! Just kidding...what are you waiting for? I've been bit...why shouldn't you?

I just opened up My Notebook for the first time over the weekend and I have already added

33 projects (you can access the rss feed to view some of my projects here)
5 queued
40 books
6 faves
4 friends

Yes, that's right...4 friends. Ravelry can make you popular...

They encourage "friendships" by pointing out other Ravelers with similar tastes to yours. And...the first of my projects that was "hearted"as a favorite by another Raveler...I ran in and shared the exciting news with my husband! "Honey, a total stranger just chose one of my photos as a favorite", I gushed. He just nodded. He doesn't get it. How could he? He is a man and he is not a knitter.

Oh, go ahead and laugh...but, just wait. If you are already on Ravelry, you know exactly what I'm talking about; and, if you're still waiting to visit this knitting Neverland ...this knitters' Utopia ...well, you'll see.

By the way, when you are in Ravelry, look me up. My username is IMKnittified...what else? (And, let's not even go into how appropriate it is to have a 'user' name...like it's a drug, which it is.) Anyway, give me a shout out. Let's be friends.

Last SP10 Package

2007-07-07T16:54:00.000-05:00

This post is picture intense; but...the package was so pretty!

My SP10 spoiler revealed herself finally, after teasing me with hints, and she is Lisa at Golden Loving Knitter. How appropriate that she is also a dog lover and a Rockin Sock Club member, too.

Lisa sent two skeins of Panda Cotton in a pretty, soft pink color. I am knitting the Victorian Lace socks from the Six Sox KAL with the Panda Cotton and I love knitting with this yarn, so I thank you for the opportunity to use Panda Cotton yarn again.

She sent adorable stitch markers from Zephyr Style. The main marker says "Yarn Snob, and proud of it!" How appropriate!

There was also chocolate, notecards and a notebook, both with a sheep theme.

Lisa was a very generous and thoughtful spoiler! Thank you so much for everything!

Another Swap...Another Fabulous Swap Package!

2007-05-31T20:44:00.001-05:00

I received a fantastic package from my Knitters' Coffee Swap partner, Leslie. Oh my gosh...she sent me garden-y goodness in the form of a packet of sage seeds and a sage scented soy candle (try to say that three times fast), 2 different types of coffee from a company called "Bad Ass", 3 different types of chocolate (the Lindt's had to immediately go in the fridge...damn postman left the box right in the sun), and 2 skeins of luscious hand-dyed, handspun yarn...that she spun herself!

How lucky am I? A girl who lives for hand-dyed, handspun luxury yarns gets paired up with a handspinner of luxury fibers who has a friend who is a hand-dyer...does life get any better?

Just take a look at this Navajo Three-ply 100% Silk Tussah. The picture doesn't even show how beautiful it is...gorgeous shades of blues and greens.

Thank you so much, Leslie, for such a thoughtful package!

Now, for my calculations...

I first used my handy-dandy WPI tool and counted 20 WPI. Based on this, the yarn would be fingering weight.

I then weighed the yarn cake which came to 1 1/4 oz. I translated this to approximately 35 grams which I calculated to be approximately 154 yards per skein.

This yardage calculation was confirmed by my yarn meter which counted the skein (as it wound from the swift to the ball winder) as 146 yards. (The yarn meter is relatively accurately +/- 10%.) Since I have 2 skeins, I probably have around 300 yards of fingering weight yarn.

Hmm...what to make? Any ideas?

Summer Knitting Goals

2007-05-29T23:20:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned before how much I love a contest? Well, I do. And so...I have entered yet another blog contest, and it's a good one because not only do I have the chance to win some Blue Sky Alpaca Dyed Cotton yarn and the Fitted Tank pattern; but, this contest will help motivate me to get some things done.

The contest is from Skeins her way... Read more about it here. If you follow this link, be sure to mention that you saw it on Knitsense since every referral earns me an additional entry...yay!

I'm usually not very much into setting goals. I'm more of an "in the moment" kind of gal, especially when it comes to knitting. But, I do have a lot of knitting to do this summer and I think that setting some knitting goals is just what I need to get myself organized. So, here it goes...

By the end of summer/August, I would like to have completed the following WIP's:

Horcrux Socks (Six Socks KAL)
RSC Inside-Out Socks
RSC Grasshopper Socks
Monkey Socks
Beaded Brocade Socks

Yeah, I know...that's a lot of socks. And, those are just the ones that I want to finish by the end of summer...okay, continuing on with what I'd like to complete:

Noro Silk Garden Danica (Entrelac) Scarf
Prism Fiber Arts Bag Shawl
Peapod Baby Sweater and Hat
Noro Silk Mountain Sleeveless Jacket
Lace Style Little Silk Shrug
Streaker's Shrug

Holy moley! That's a lot of finishing. Well, we'll see...

By the end of summer, I would like to have started the following:

RSC June Sock
RSC August Sock
Victorian Lace Sock (SixSocks KAL)
Gedifra Pattern #1020-Highlights 72 Jacket
IK Lotus Blossom Tank with LanaKnits Hemp yarn
Mrs. Beeton's Gauntlets
Lacewings Shawl in Handmaiden Sea Silk

And, more socks. Oh, the joys of casting on...

Finally, by the end of summer, I would like to have resurrected, and continue to work on, the following UFO's:

French Girl Knits Shawl in Rowan Summer Tweed
Sally Melville Big Bang Wrap
Chevron Scarf
Einstein Coat
The Klee Scarf
Lizard Ridge Afghan

Wow! I'm exhausted already. This is probably why I usually don't set goals for myself...but, I am up for the challenge.

So Cute!

2007-05-08T17:34:00.000-05:00

My Secret Pal has struck again...

In my mailbox was a small padded envelope sent from Canada. Since I have a tendency to suffer from Yarnesia (and all fiber-related-esia), I was trying to remember what I had ordered from Canada. When I couldn't think of anything that would fit in a small envelope, I opened it up to find the cutest set of personalized stitch markers. Each one has a different letter on it to spell out my first name...so cute!

Thank you, Secret Pal...you're the best!!

Knitters' Coffee Swap Two

2007-05-02T19:50:00.000-05:00

It's back...the Knitters' Coffee Swap. And, I ask you...what could be better than coffee and yarn?

I have already been paired up; so, here are the answers to the Coffee Swap questions.

QUESTIONS

1. Whole bean or ground? Whole bean...my coffee maker grinds the beans for me.
2. Fully-loaded or decaf? Fully-loaded, please
3. Regular or flavored? I’m a purist…never flavored
4. How do you drink your coffee? Hot and black
5. Favorite coffee ever? A dark roast coffee (don’t remember the bean) at Oby Lee Coffee Roastery in Rehoboth Beach, DE and Demon Roast from Prime Roast in Keene, NH. Oh, also coffee I drank at a spa in Mexico.
6. Are you fussy about your coffee or will any old bean do? Very fussy…sorry, but I am.
7. Favorite treats to have with your coffee? Biscotti, chocolate, ruggelah, shortbread…lots of things go well with good coffee.
8. Anything else about your coffee preferences? Love the dark roasts…the darker and richer, the better...dark, but not bitter...there is a difference.
9. Yarn/fiber you love? Natural fibers, particularly handspun and/or hand-dyed yarns
10. Yarn/fiber you hate? Acrylic or acrylic blends…ick
11. What's on your needles? I have about 4 different pairs of socks that I’m working on now, a CTH ribbon capelet, a Prism (multi-colored, multi-fiber) shawl, and the Peapod baby sweater and hat set. These are just the first few projects that popped into my mind. I have a lot on the needles!
12. Favorite colors? That’s always a tough one for me because I really like a lot of different colors. I do tend to prefer more cool tones to warm tones.
13. Allergies? Cigarette smoke
14. Anything you really love, really don't like, or just need to get off your chest? I really love good, natural fiber and I really love good, dark coffee…’nuff said…

A United Message of Love

2007-04-30T15:05:00.000-05:00

...to honor the victims of Virginia Tech

Warning: It's Not Pretty

2007-04-29T20:54:00.000-05:00

My SP10 hostess, Shelby, has created another contest. She is looking for organizing ideas and has asked to see our stash. Well... no organizing ideas here. In spite of that, I just can't resist entering a contest, so here is how a small portion of my stash looks.

I have tried different methods of organizing...attempting first to follow Sally Melville's method of organizing by color, as described in her book Sally Melville Styles. It didn't work for me. Next, I decided to try organizing by yarn weight. That seems to work better for me; but, I haven't gotten very far with this method. So, as it is now, some of my stash is organized by color and some is organized by weight, and some is just...not organized.

My attempt at organizing by color started with an idea I saw on a Martha Stewart Show. Martha was organizing kid's toys into these giant Ziploc bags and then hanging them from skirt/pants hangers. That seemed like a good idea; but, my bags kept sliding off the hangers...It looked so easy when Martha did it.

Now, I attempt to put yarn into plastic bins by yarn weight...I just haven't gotten very far with that idea.

Fortunately, most of the mess is behind closet doors...

When you open the doors, you see this...okay, I can't stop thinking of the famous shower scene in Psycho (click the link if you need a reminder) ...can you hear the music? Here we go...

Sheesh...I warned you...it isn't pretty!

Fantastic SP Package!

2007-04-28T15:52:00.000-05:00

I have received a fabulous package from my SP10 spoiler...seriously! She sent me a little bit of everything...I have certainly been spoiled.

The package started with the usual assortment of multi-colored tissue-wrapped bundles which, quite honestly, I never grow tired of. Unfortunately, I started ripping things open so quickly that I didn't even think to get the camera out...I guess I was just too excited.

Inside, there was yarn, chocolate, gum, a candle, playing cards, a refrigerator magnet, post-it notes, a key chain, and jewelry...that's right, jewelry...WOW!

To break it down more...the yarn: a skein of Araucania Nature Wool Chunky in a pretty dusty rose color. The Nature Wool is 131 yards and 3.5 stitches to the inch...I'm trying to figure out what to make with it. It would definitely make a pretty felted bowl from Oneskein. Also, I received two balls of Peru DK which is a lovely Alpaca/Silk blend in a beautiful soft blue. Each ball has 124 yards and knits up to a 5.5 st gauge. Ideas, anyone?

The chocolate: Lindt Raspberry Dark Chocolate Truffles; the gum: Orbit; the candle: Malaysian Melon; the playing cards and the Post-it Notes: both have a dog theme making them quite appropriate for me; the keychain: a Sock Blocker with a mini-sock pattern for the blocker/keychain to wear; and the refrigerator magnet: an adorable sheep magnet.

The jewelry is a necklace and I love it. I have already worn it twice and each time, I get compliments on it wherever I go. It is soooo my taste that it is really quite amazing that someone who has never met me, my secret pal, could have picked it out for me.

I recently had my hair (re)colored and it matches my hair...I kid you not.

(Forgive the photos...it is not easy to photograph yourself.)

I already said it privately; but, let me say it again publicly...Secret Pal, thank you so much!!!

Off to NYC

2007-04-12T21:04:00.000-05:00

I know...I'm a bad blogger. I have not posted anything for a couple of weeks. I meant to do a nice post showing pictures of the (very few) finished objects from March, and a picture of the beautiful skein of yarn that Kerry sent me when I won the contest for offering some advice on a knitting dilemma she had.

But...I am out of time. I am off to New York City for the weekend. We are leaving early in the morning and I need to finish packing and get to sleep.

So...all I can offer you now is another cute (aren't they all cute?) picture (or two) of my babies.

Miss Skagway

Rumor and Stella

That's all I've got...for now.

A Secret Pal 10 Contest

2007-03-22T21:09:00.000-05:00

My SP 10 Hostess, Shelby, is hosting a contest for participants in her SP 10 group. Here are the details:

It's a 2 parter!! First: You must have your questionnaire posted where your pal can easily find it.

Check!

Second: I'd like to see what you're all working on! Please make a post, where you pick one of your favorite current projects and explain why you love it so much! What yarn and pattern are you using? Who is it for??

Here you go, Shelby...

For my favorite current project, I could pick my Rockin' Sock Club 2007 socks. I am loving knitting these. I love the yarn, I love this club colorway (Monsoon), and I especially love this pattern. I would have chosen this project; but, it is currently on hold. For the stretchy, ribbed foot and instep to fit correctly, I am going down in needle size to a-believe it or not-US #000, which I do not have, and am still waiting to receive the needle I ordered.

Then, I could pick my Chevron Scarf, from the Last-Minute Knitted Gifts book. I am enjoying the pattern and what it does with the two different variegated yarns. I love how the colors are showing up. But, alas, it is a scarf...my track record with finishing scarves is not that great. And, I can already feel the boredom setting in at the thought of continuing this same pattern for another 70 inches, or so. All that said, I am not choosing this as my current favorite project.

Instead, I will go the route of sweet and simple, and choose the Peekaboo Mittens, from MagKnits, as my current favorite project. These are easy, quick, and a really fun design. I am actually making these up for the store so I am using the suggested yarn, which is Lamb's Pride Worsted. One of the perks of working at the shop is that I can knit up anything I want, with no charge for the materials, as long as I leave the finished item at the store for six months. Then, it is mine. My fingers are somewhat long and this mitten is a snitch too short for my fingers, so I may end up gifting it; but, I don't know yet to whom.

A picture of my little ones...Elphie and Patriot...they're just too cute not to show off, even though they are looking pretty serious here.

Let's Put an End To February Already

2007-03-21T20:42:00.000-05:00

Here are my February FO's:

In February, I finished both February Dishcloths from the Monthly Dishcloth KAL. The beginning of the month KAL is usually a picture of something relating to the current month or season. So, what else for February? Hearts, of course.

Tahki Cotton Classic; US #6

The Mid Month KAL is usually a repeating pattern stitch.

Sugar 'n Cream ; Color Creamsicle; US #7

Here, you see my Lacy Cashmere Scarf blocking.

GGH 100% Cashmere; Color #8 Rose; US #8

From Knitty, I made another pair of Fetching mitts. Man, these things are like eating potato chips...you can't stop at one pair.

Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran; Color 300502; US #6

Also from Knitty, I made a Calorimetry. I think I see another one of these in my future, too.

Auracania Atacama Alpaca; Color 513; went down 2 needle sizes to US #6; Only cast-on 90 sts.

And, from Knitty again, my first Lizard Ridge square.

Noro Kureyon,; Color #102

As I mentioned before, I did start a new job in February. I now work part-time at a new LYS. It is called The Yarn and Fiber Company and is located in Windham, NH. It is run by two of the nicest people on the planet and is fabulous! If you live within driving distance, get in your car now and check it out...you will love it! Seriously! Tons of Debbie Bliss, Rowan, Noro, GGH, Cherry Tree Hill, Classic Elite, Elsebeth Lavold, and much more. And, be sure to look for me and say "hey." If you are out of the area, no problem. We have a wonderful site online, and...shipping is free, no minimum order requirements.

This is Stitches, the sweet and absolutely adorable store mascot.

And that, my friends, is IT for February!

Birthdays and Vegas

2007-03-20T22:43:00.000-05:00

At the end of February, I celebrated a milestone birthday. And, maybe as an attempt to help me forget it, my husband took me to Vegas where we spent a glorious weekend wining and dining (and seeing the show "O" by Cirque du Soleil) at the beautiful Bellagio. I share with you now various photos from the Bellagio.

This is the view from our room which faced the fountains, with the Paris on the other side.

The lobby is stunning. Look up at the ceiling and you see a display of 2,000 hand-blown flowers.

One of the Bellagio cafes hosts this incredible chocolate fountain...

Inside the hotel, we were able to stroll through the gorgeous Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The current theme celebrates the Chinese New Year.

We also spent time being pampered in the spa. And, of course, we watched many, many incredible fountain shows.

My SP10 Questionnaire

2007-03-15T22:43:00.000-05:00

is answered...

Questions and Answers

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I love luxury natural fibers, anything from merino wool to cashmere. I also like to knit with silk and alpaca, and blends of these. I am always interested in unusual fibers like buffalo, qiviut and camel. I especially like handspun and hand-dyed fibers from indie fiber artists, such as Black Bunny, Brooklyn Handspun, and Sweet Georgia, to name a few, and others from so many of the Etsy stores. I regularly stalk different art yarn sites like Yarn Wench, and Material Whirled. And, I love the yarns from Handmaiden and Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

I definitely am more of a fiber purist (a nice way of saying “snob”) and do not like acrylic.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? At home, I currently have my circulars hanging from The Circular Solution and my straights are in a glass vase (I don’t use DPN’s). I tend to carry a lot of circulars with me in my knitting bag; but, don’t really have a good case for that. Knitters Review just reviewed 2 cases specifically for circulars on the go that I thought looked nice.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I have been an avid (or rabid) knitter only for about the last 4 years; but, I learned to knit from a 6-week class I took at a yarn shop about 18 years ago. My skill level is probably Advanced Intermediate, if there is such a rating.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? I do not; but, I’ll let you know if that changes.

5. What's your favorite scent? I like fresh, clean scents. I like lilac and lavender. I also like citrus scents and powdery scents. I do not like coconut (the scent or the food), or mint scents, unless the mint is mixed with other things.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? I do, I do. I love all chocolate; but, especially dark chocolate. I like chocolate-covered things like espresso beans, blueberries, and cherries…most things, except I don’t like anything with coconut. I also love toffee

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I have, at different times, done many different crafts; however, right now I only knit (and crochet some, too). I have a nice drop spindle and roving; but, haven’t really done anything with them.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I like most music, although, my least favorites would be country and heavy metal. My computer plays MP3’s and I have an iPod.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? There really are no colors that I just can’t stand. I like most colors, and lean towards different colors at different times, depending on my mood. One of the things I really enjoy about SP is that I end up with choices I might not have made for myself. The current STR Club sock yarn is almost a camouflage colorway which I probably would not have picked out for myself; but, I really love it.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I am married. My husband and I live with 3 cats and 4 dogs.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Yes, to all.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? My favorite projects are small, accessory items like hats, fingerless mitts, and socks.

13. What are you knitting right now? I am currently working on a Lizard Ridge (Knitty) square, a Chevron (Last-Minute Knitted Gifts) scarf, Monkey (Knitty) socks, STR Club socks, the Mid-month Dishcloth KAL, and Peekaboo (MagKnits) mittens, to name a few.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Yes!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I prefer circulars over straight for most knitting; but, love specialty (hand crafted) straight needles. My favorite circulars are Knit Picks and Addi Turbos. I can’t wait to try out Addi’s new lace needles. My favorite straight needles are Lantern Moon 10 inch.

Updated 3/28/07-I currently have the LM 10" in US#5, #6, #7, #9, #10, #17.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? Yes, to both.

17. How old is your oldest UFO? I have a couple of projects that are really old; but, I haven’t worked on them at all in several years so they may end up being frogged instead of finished. I have started many, many things. I think I have a severe case of Castonitis. I like finishing things; but, I think I like starting something new even better.

18. What is your favorite holiday? My birthday, then my anniversary. I seem to especially like the holidays where I get gifts.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Unless we’re counting yarn, not really.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? Right now, I am dying to get Yarn Harlot’s new book; but, will probably snatch it up the moment I see it in a store. I’m like that with books; so, I have most of the ones I want. I have subscriptions for Interweave Knits, Knitters, and Cast On magazines.

Updated 3/25/07-Have seen 2 more books that I don't have that I do want...'No Sheep For You' by Amy Singer, and 'The Best of Vogue Knitting Magazine: 25 Years of Articles, Techniques, and Expert Advice.'

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I can’t really think of anything; I have taken a lot of classes. On second thought, I might like to take a class focusing on a Fair Isle project, since I am not too comfortable with that technique.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? Yes. My foot length is 9 3/4" and my foot is 9 1/4" around (size 9 shoe size).

23. When is your birthday? February 28th

What Happened to February?

2007-03-14T20:07:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal is back...SP10, to be more specific. And, with that, I am back from my break from blogging. So, what happened in February? Well, SP9 ended, I switched jobs, had a major birthday, went to Vegas, have some FO's to show, and signed up for SP10.

I will play catch-up, in greater detail, over the next few posts; but, for today I would like to do a public display of gratitude to Knitting Sheeple, my spoiler for SP9. (I did send her a thank you card privately right away.)

This is what I saw as I opened the box...colorful and enticing, the kind of package that has me all a twitter even before I know what’s in it.

And, it did not disappoint. Inside...a plethora of goodies!

A beautiful skein of TOFUtsies sock yarn...you know, the new sock yarn from SWTC that contains Chitin, made from shrimp and crab shells, described as being naturally antibacterial...cool!

And...what could be better? More sock yarn! The color did not photograph well; but, it is a beautiful purple...100% Alpaca...super soft and luscious.

Is a package really complete without...CHOCOLATE? Uh, no! As I said...Knitting Sheeple did not disappoint. These chocolate bars were really scrumptious...with exotic flavors mixed in of hickory smoked almonds and gray sea salt in the bar on the left, and ground coffee and cinnamon in the bar on the right. Yum!

Finally, the perfect pattern for my single skein of SeaSilk yarn. Remember this? This is the absolutely gorgeous skein of SeaSilk that Clandestine Knitter (how she was originally known to me until the reveal) sent in my first package. Since receiving it, I have not been able to decide what to use it for. I've been looking for just the right pattern. And, here it is. After a photo of this finished shawl appeared on Yarn Harlot's blog, it became the shawl to do with just one skein of SeaSilk.

All in all...a great package, and a great Secret Pal. Clearly, she read in-between the lines of my blog and knew just what I would like. Thank you!!!!

So as not to start off on the wrong foot with my SP10 Spoiler, I will give the answers to the SP10 Questionnaire in the next post...probably tomorrow. Until then, here is how I answered the questions in SP8 and SP9.

A Blogger's (Silent) Poetry Reading

2007-02-02T18:57:00.000-05:00

Today, I offer my contribution to help celebrate the Feast of Brigid, aka Groundhog Day. The invitation from Grace's Poppies was to post a poem that I like on my blog. I can't say that this is my very favorite poem; but, ever since I was a little girl, I have loved this poem by Ogden Nash.

The Hippopotamus

Behold the hippopotamus!
We laugh at how he looks to us,
And yet in moments dank and grim,
I wonder how we look to him.

Peace, peace, thou hippopotamus!
We really look all right to us,
As you no doubt delight the eye
Of other hippopotami.

Ogden Nash
(1902 - 1971 / USA)

FO's for January

2007-01-31T21:08:00.000-05:00

This is the first Test-Along I did for Larissa and her future Knitalong book which has an anticipated publication date sometime in 2008. This was a very quick to knit and comfortable sock pattern using less than 1 skein of Manos. The socks are slightly fulled which gives the stitches a little extra springiness. I finished the pair in about a day and a half which made them a lot of fun to knit. I even bought another skein to make a pair of (house) socks for the hubby.

Pattern: Socks 101 Test-along

Yarn: Manos 25 Shale
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #10 40" Magic Loop
Notes: Made Women's Large (CO 36 sts) w/less than 1 skein

The Glaistig hat was also a lot of fun to knit. Not only because of all the things I knit, I probably love knitting hats the most. But, this hat was especially enjoyable to knit because I learned two new techniques while doing the Glaistig hat. The first new technique was the Alternate Cable Cast-On. This cast-on works up slowly; but, looks excellent with the K1, P1 ribbed edge of the hat. In addition to learning the new cast-on, this hat was excellent practice for learning how to cable without a cable needle. The instructions, at Grumperina's blog, use a six-stitch cable as the example. The hat uses an eight-stitch cable and two strands of yarn held together throughout; so, it was a little tricky. However, I really feel like I've got it now. It is hard to see the extent of cabling from this photo, and also, I think, because of the variegated yarn, so take a look at the picture at the AntiCraft...it is a really cute hat, modeled here by my niece.

Pattern: Glaistig from the AntiCraft
Yarn: Claudia Hand Painted in Ingrid's Blues w/Koigu KPM in Black
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #8, 16" and 40" Magic Loop
Notes: Used Alternate Cable Cast On and Cabling Without a Cable Needle

Here is my second Test-Along pattern done for Larissa's book. We were to knit a 7" square using sock yarn in certain colorways following a specified pattern exactly. I basically ended up having to knit this square (almost) three times before I got it right. But, it is done and I have already mailed it off to Larissa. A few dozen of the squares received will be chosen for inclusion in the book's sample afghan. The others not chosen will be made into additional afghans and donated to Warm Up America. So, either way, as Martha would say, "It's a good thing."

Pattern: Square Test-along
Yarn: Socks That Rock Medium Weight color Scottish Highlands
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #1(2.5mm) 40" Magic Loop
Notes: Had to go down in needle size (from #2 to #1) to obtain required gauge and square size.

I joined another KAL. It's not as if I don't already have enough projects; but, sometimes it is nice to follow along with others on a small project, where someone else has chosen the pattern. It's the Monthly Dishcloth KAL, which provides a new pattern at the beginning of the month and another one in the middle of the month. Each pattern is given several lines at a time over the course of about a week. And, you don't know what the finished dishcloth will look like until it's done.

Pattern: 2007 January Mid-Month KAL
Yarn: Sugar 'n Cream 100% Cotton
Needles: US #7
Notes: Did cables without cabling needle

Here's the final FO for January. It's Calorimetry from the Winter 2006 issue of Knitty. I completely finished it and bound off only to decide that the yarn I chose is either a little more stretchy or maybe my head is a little smaller than the pattern is geared to. In any case, it was way too big.

So, here we are again...more frogging in January and another restart.

Phew...Crisis Averted

2007-01-29T22:54:00.000-05:00

I came this close to losing my place as a member of the fabulous 2007 Rockin' Sock Club.

I signed up for the Rockin' Sock Club at Blue Moon Fiber Arts sometime last November. On January 01, I was invoiced. I paid the fee on January 02. Well, I won't go into the lengthy story of the insanity that BMFA experienced with their (ex)bank, mainly because if you haven't already read the story, you can read about it here, or here, or here. However, after I read the email from BMFA explaining the fiasco, I checked my bank account, saw that my payment had been made, and decided I must be okay because I used a debit card and the payment was immediately deducted from my account.

Not so. But, I would not have known there was a problem if it weren't for the very thorough ladies at BMFA sending a postcard readdressing the payment problem. I checked my account again yesterday only to discover that my payment had also been returned. Yikes! I immediately forwarded payment to BMFA.

Crisis averted.

On another note...the hubby, apparently tired of hearing my complaints of not being able to take a good picture of my knitting, has bought me a new toy.

Ta da! Isn't she pretty?

I really know nothing about photography; but, hopefully, you will notice an improvement in the quality of the photos you see here. I'm hoping...but, I can't really promise anything.

Starting Over

2007-01-22T20:51:00.000-05:00

I do gauge swatches...not for everything; but, for most projects. So, usually after I've swatched, I do not have false starts. Not the case in the past few weeks. I have had to completely start over on three simple recent projects.

First, the Bejeweled Scarf for Lolly's KAL. I am using Schaefer's Helene (silk/wool blend) which only has 218 yards in the skein. The pattern has you increase until you get to 32 stitches across, which should be about 6.75 inches wide. I increased until 26 stitches to have a slightly narrower scarf and hoping to keep the length. However, it turned out that my scarf, at 26 stitches, was also 6.75 inches wide. And, when the scarf was 26 inches long, I weighed the yarn I had left and calculated that the scarf would only end up being around 52 inches long. So, I frogged it and started over, increasing only to 20 stitches across, which is now coming out to 5 inches wide and I'm hoping will be at least 5 feet long.

Second, I started the beautiful Monkey socks designed by Cookie A. (one of my favorite sock designers!).

I am using a skein of the Fleece Artist yarn, that I was gifted in December, on a 2.5mm needle, which the pattern calls for and I swatched with. When I started the sock, I felt like I was knitting a little tight, so I consciously tried to knit looser; however, after 2 pattern repeats I tried the sock on, and I could barely get it over my heel. Ugh! I started the second sock (pictured here) on a 3.00mm needle and it fits good and actually looks better. First sock...frogged.

Third, I am test knitting an afghan square for Larissa's Knitalong book. Originally, she suggested several different yarns, one being Socks That Rock mediumweight on size #2 needles. Since I had some leftover STR mediumweight in the requested color range, I started my square. Problem #1, I misread the instructions and bound off my square at, what turned out to be, only halfway completed. I was questioning how tiny my square was and realized what I had done after Larissa added the end stitch count to the instructions. So, after pulling out the bind off edge, I continued my square and bound off (again) at 172 stitches.

Problem #2, my new finished square was way too big. Originally, Larissa wanted 7.5 inch squares; then, revised this to 7 inch squares. My square was a good 8 inches. I did not do a gauge swatch for the square. I had made socks out of this yarn and knew my gauge was correct for the yarn; but, after binding off the square and measuring it, I checked my gauge and it was off...for this square.

On the right of this photo is the beginning of my new square, on size #1 needles. The square on the left is the one I am unraveling as I reknit the square (in the required gauge). Since starting the square again, Larissa has knit her own square with STR mediumweight on size #2 needles, also had a "Yooge" square, and...has revised the sizing now to allow for squares in a range of sizes, anywhere from 7″ to 8.5″. Hmmm.

Another Knitting Quiz...Asked and Answered

2007-01-05T17:49:00.000-05:00

What kind of knitting needles are you?

You are "turbo" charged. Fast moving and classy, you get things done with power and grace. Your expensive tastes can be deceiving, since what you really value is quality and efficiency. As you're careening around those corners in life, finishing a dozen knitted objects each month, stop and smell the roses. Don't miss the beauty of process!

Take this quiz!

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When Knitting Becomes an Obsession

2006-12-31T19:28:00.000-05:00

Knitting is an obsession for me and I can't wait to see what 2007 brings with regards to knitting and knitters.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

And...for your viewing pleasure, this wonderful animated video entitled "The Last Knit."

Secret Santa

2006-12-29T17:30:00.000-05:00

At the salon where I work, we draw a name out of a bag to determine which coworker we will be gifting each holiday season. Then, the gifts are exchanged during our annual company holiday dinner. This is my 3rd holiday season working there. The first year, I picked the name of the salon owner and for his gift, I knit A a scarf. Well, that set the precedence. Last year for my gift, I knit K a scarf. This year, I picked V and, so as not to disappoint, I knew I had to knit. Just to keep it interesting, instead of a scarf I knit her these very 'Fetching' fingerless gloves, and headband, made from 1 skein of Nashua Handknits Creative Focus Worsted, color Zinnia.

Originally, I had only thought about making the mitts. But, they knit up so quickly, and I had so much yarn left over that I made V the headband, and even had enough yarn to make another one (slightly narrower) for myself. I just kind of winged it with the headband using an old Estonian Long Eye Stitch pattern that I learned in my Stitches East class with Merike Saarniit.

On the receiving end of things, I'm one of a group of 5 women friends, who also knit. Each Wednesday, we meet for lunch and afternoon knitting. Each holiday season, we also choose a name from a bag to determine which friend to gift. M drew my name this year and spoiled me rotten with this basket filled with luscious knitting goodies.

In the basket was an adorable "Sock Blocker" keychain with a pattern for a little sock to fit the blocker, some "Handknit by You" tags, a cute notebook specifically geared to sock knitting, and not one, but two gorgeous skeins of Fleece Artist Merino sock yarn. Huzzah!

And, one other knitterly gift received was from my sister-in-law (and spouse)...a pair of neon orange (US size 11) Knit Lite knitting needles. Too fun!!

Can a knitster girl ever have too many accessories?

Goodness!

2006-12-24T21:10:00.000-05:00

First up...Good Coffee.

The Knitters Coffee Swap has ended and I received a fantastic package from my swap partner, Kathy. Since we were out of coffee as of the day before the package came, when I opened the box and saw the Christmas Blend from Starbucks, my husband immediately took the coffee and poured it into our machine and we have been drinking it since then. It is yummy! Christmas Blend is one of my favorite Starbucks blends and it is only available at this time of year.

I love the yarn she chose for me. It is a perfect choice! It is Alpaca from a breeder/spinner local to her, in Michigan, and it is a gorgeous color...deep brown, like a rich dark-roast coffee. She sent enough to make socks. She also sent chocolate that had an interesting blend of flavors. It is milk chocolate with ground Ancho chilies and Ceylon cinnamon, sprinkled with roasted cacao nibs...how good does that sound? In addition, she sent a set of beautiful stitch markers that were also made by a local artisan. And, she sent a cute purple notepad...seriously, I was trying to think if I had mentioned anywhere that purple is one of my favorite colors...how did she know? I get very excited over things that I have not seen before, and things I cannot normally get; so, the yarn, the stitch markers, and the chocolate all were very interesting and exciting for me.

Here is a closeup of the beautiful yarn. I think I know just the right sock pattern for this yarn. I'm thinking of the Cable Twist Socks from Hello Yarn. There are great pictures of these socks knit up in solid colors here and here.

I was very impressed and delighted with the package. Thanks, again to my Knitters Coffee Swap partner....you did good!

Next up...Good Deeds.

I don't usually do 'Charity Knitting'; however, I did knit a newborn cap for the Caps to the Capital project. I never photographed it because I finished it while I was at Stitches East and Stitches had a booth set up to collect the caps and send them directly to Caps to the Capital. If you are knitting a newborn cap for the Save the Children organization, don't forget that the knitted (or crocheted) infant caps need to be mailed by January 2, 2007.

Also, I recently completed a Chemo Cap for my friend J. It was interesting for me because I didn't tell J that I was making anything for her and I was feeling a little awkward about giving the cap to her. J has lost her hair from her chemo treatments and wears a wig. So, I wasn't sure how she would feel about me knitting for her bald head. I was pretty anxious about it; but, I knew that my heart was in the right place. I wrapped it up nice and gave it to her at work. As she was opening the box, I told her that I had knit her a little something to keep her head warm at night. She opened it and burst into tears... and hugged me so hard. I felt really good and realized that I had all that anxiety for nothing. Good thoughts are usually well received.

I used the "ChemoCaps Eyelet Hat" pattern from the Knitting for Peace book and knit it up with Jade Sapphire Mongolian Cashmere.

Next...Good Karma.
Lisa Shobhana Mason, author of Yarnplay, is paying it forward for some good that came her way earlier this year. Through Decemeber 31st, buy her Bejeweled Scarf pattern online for $2.25 and $3.50 will be donated to F.I.R.E., the non-profit organization that delivers all of the knitted items to Mongolia for the Dulaan Project. I bought this pattern and am going through the stash now to find the right yarn. This is an easy way to do some good. Buy the pattern and suggest it to your friends, too.

And, finally...Good Holidays.
Wishing everyone a wonderful, happy, safe holiday season!

I'm In Love

2006-12-17T22:42:00.000-05:00

... with Sea Silk yarn from HandMaiden. Sea Silk is a hand dyed 70% Silk and 30% SeaCell lace weight yarn that is to die for. HandMaiden describes SeaCell this way:

"SeaCell is a cellulose based fibre made from seaweed. It is highly breathable and very soft. When worn, your skin's natural moisture will release magnesium, calcium and vitamin E contained within the seaweed. It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to protect the skin."

Holy Cow...It's not just yarn; it's a health aid! And, who do I have to thank for this luscious skein of yarn...my secret pal!

It has been said that good things come in small packages. And, clearly, as in this case, it is true. Many thanks to Clandestine Knitter, my SP9 buddy, for this wonderful gift! I have lusted after a skein of this yarn for probably close to a year now. It's gorgeous! I just keep looking at it and fondling it, and smelling it.

Doesn't everyone smell their yarn? In general, I do love smelling yarn; but, this yarn has a very unusual smell. You can actually smell the seaweed. It not only has healthy properties, it smells healthy. Seriously!

I'm going to really have to think about what I want to make with this skein...something that would be worthy of this soft and shiny silk yarn.

One idea that Clandestine Knitter had was the Swallowtail Shawl from the Fall 2006 Interweave Knits magazine. I like this pattern and even considered doing it before getting the Sea Silk. The Sea Silk is the perfect size skein for this shawl which calls for 400 m (exactly the size of the Sea Silk skein). However, Clandestine Knitter made a good point when she thought that it should be "something that was going to get worn next to the skin since that seems to be a big point of this yarn".

So for now, I will just stare lovingly at the yarn until I decide what to knit with it. Any ideas would be welcome.

Stitches East - The Events

2006-11-30T22:51:00.000-05:00

In addition to my well-spent (no pun intended) time at the market, I also attended the Opening Day Presentation and Luncheon (Thursday), the Fashion Show (Friday night), the Student Banquet (Saturday night), and took 5 classes. It all was heavenly.

The Opening Presentation was a talk and slide show from Kaffe Fassett. Seeing him in person was definitely a highlight for me. He is so talented and still so handsome.

The XRX Fashion Show was fabulous. The different types of garments were grouped into categories from "Accessories" to "A Night On The Town". There were 98 items professionally modeled...amazing! Also, XRX raffled off tons of gifts...nope, I didn't win any of them.

The Student Banquet was just as spectacular with the students modeling their own creations. Rick Mondragon, the editor of Knitter's Magazine, emceed both fashion shows and is quite hilarious.

In addition to the numerous things you could win in the raffle, each table was given a huge basket of goodies. There was a gift in the basket for each person at the table. I received a ball of Jade Sapphire Exotic Fibres Lacey Lamb with a pattern to make a shawl. It is incredibly soft and gorgeous yarn.

My classes were just as wonderful as the other events. I had two different classes with Debbie New. She is the author of Unexpected Knitting and, if you've seen this book, you know that she is totally an "out of the box" thinker. In the first class with Debbie called "Tantalizing Techniques" she took techniques that we are already familiar with such as the 3-Needle Bind Off and Suspended Bind Off, and took these a step further offering different variations on the traditional techniques. She gave us variations to try for some unusual increases, grafting stitches, and her own sock pattern creation called "The Better Mousetrap Sock."

The other class I took with Debbie was based on the Cellular Automation chapter of her book. This class was basically about doing color or textured knitting without following a pattern chart; but, instead knitting self-generating patterns by following a self-imposed rule. It was very interesting and opened my mind up to ideas and options that I had never considered.

The Maggie Jackson class had us knitting a fun, funky scarf using Maggie's private stock of Irish linen yarn. The best part of this class, besides the Irish linen yarn, was Maggie herself. It took a little time before I could understand her due to her heavy Irish brogue; but, she is quite an interesting woman. She has moved from Ireland and currently lives in Spain, in a cave...yes, a cave. Talking with her was very entertaining.

I learned several old Estonian "Long-Eye" stitch patterns during my class with Merike Saarniit. This was the only class that I felt unsure about when I registered because I was unfamiliar with the instructor; however, I was pleasantly surprised. We worked several swatches of very interesting and beautiful stitches basically by manipulating elongated stitches.

My final class of Stitches East was on Sunday afternoon in the "Knitting as Meditation" class with Fiona Ellis. This was the best class I could have taken to end my Stitches experience on a positive note as this class both relaxed and inspired me at the same time. The class covered all aspects of a yoga class from the initial "centering" of oneself to the twists and balancing postures to the ending relaxation...only it was all done by knitting.

To sum up my Stitches East 2006 experience, all I can say is "WOW!"

Stitches East - The Loot

2006-11-28T11:08:00.000-05:00

Somewhat overdue, but...here's the damage done at the Stitches market.

First, the yarn...clockwise, I bought cashmere, silk, bamboo, wool/alpaca, hemp, various lace weight, and lots of sock weight merino.

Next, the non-yarn goodies. From back to front, left to right, there are stitch markers, goat milk soap, earrings, glass circular needles, and miscellaneous paper products (notecards, refrigerator pads, and post-its).

Also, I bought the book Victorian Lace Today by Jane Sowerby. XRX, the publisher of the book and organizer of Stitches, debuted the book with a fashion show and talk by the author. I have to say that it is a beautiful book with gorgeous photographs. However, seeing the garments modeled up close made all the difference because you cannot get the full beauty of the pieces from the pictures in the book. And, of course, I had my copy signed by Jane.

And finally, what I did not pay for yet is priceless are the other autographs that I got. I lugged these 3 books with me from home to Stitches. I actually had to fly with a 2nd suitcase because, with these 3 books, my suitcase would have weighed over 50 lbs. (It worked out well, though, since that 2nd suitcase carried a lot of my loot home.) And, it was all worth it to get Maggie Jackson, Debbie New, and a living legend himself-Kaffe Fassett-to sign my books.

I Am ...

2006-11-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

What Kind of Yarn are You?

Baby Alpaca
You are beautiful and soft, if sometimes a little difficult.
Nothing but the best for you, etc.
Quality, but out of the league for the rabble.

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Stitches East was absolutely fantastic!!

I didn't sleep much for 4 nights; but, I enjoyed every moment. I originally thought that if I went this year and attended every class I wanted, and every evening event, and bought what I wanted from the market, that I would be satiated and not care if I attended next year. Not so...I am already thinking about next year.

More later when I can photograph my treasures and have more time to share.

It's Here!!!!!!

2006-11-01T23:07:00.000-05:00

Eeeeek! That is me squealing with delight!! If you have been reading, you know why. You are right...it is time to go to Stitches. Eeeeeek! I'm squealing again.

I'll see you when I get back...

If I waited to post until after midnight...0 Days Until Stitches

Greyhounds Reach The Beach

2006-10-30T17:24:00.000-05:00

Ever since I have become involved with Greyhounds and Greyhound people, I have heard people talking about an annual event, held every October for the past twelve years, in Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. In Greyhound circles, it is simply referred to as 'Dewey'. And, starting towards the end of Summer, you can hear Greyhound adopters asking others "are you going to Dewey?"

A couple of weeks ago, the hubby and I packed up our Greyhounds, Stella and Rumor, and drove 9 hours, to attend this annual October gathering of Greyhound lovers and their hounds called Greyhounds Reach The Beach. In 2005, it was estimated that 3,000 Greyhounds were registered for the event----and this year's numbers were expected to be the same.

It's all about the Greyhounds! The rooms of every motel, hotel, and inn are booked out to Greyhounds and their people from all across the country, and beyond. We even met two women from England who have attended (sans dogs, of course) for the last five years.

Stella and Rumor loved our room which had two double beds...they had their own bed. The inn we stayed at was full and every room had at least one Greyhound; yet, we never heard any barking...you gotta love these quiet, gentle creatures!

Everywhere we went, we saw people with Greyhounds. There was shopping galore...anything and everything Greyhound that you could imagine. There were book signings in a coffee/book store, psychic readings (for the dogs), a Greyhounds in Art
show, caricatures were done, an ice-cream social (again, for the dogs--frozen yogurt was served), a Beer and Costume Ball (beer for the people) and Greyhounds on the beach as far as you could see.

It was an incredibly memorable weekend.

So close I can taste it...3 Days Until Stitches

Swap Meet

2006-10-29T23:05:00.000-05:00

Oh, how I love when the USPS truck stops in front of my house and rings the bell...

I received my package from my Hot Socks Swap partner...Yippee! I have been spoiled!

There are 2 skeins of a gorgeous Lorna's Laces yarn in the color called 'Cool'. It doesn't show well in the photo. It is beautiful shades of turquoise blue blending into other blues, green, and even some purple tones. And, not showing in the photo is, what looks like, hand-made sterling silver stitch markers with gorgeous blue glass beads. I love them. The rings are small...ideal for sock needles and the beads on them coordinate perfectly with the yarn.

Being that it was the Hot Socks swap (combining sock yarn with hot beverages), she sent some whole bean Kona coffee. I have brewed it and it is wonderful. And, as if I wouldn't already be feeling like I had died and gone to heaven with rich coffee and beautiful sock yarn, she sent some extra goodies: an aromatherapy lavender candle, several Spicy Chai tea bags, Ferrero Rocher and a dark chocolate bar...yumm-o! Do I need to say that the chocolate is gone? I had to really focus just to keep it until the photo was taken. Finally, she included a packet of these very cute winter-themed Page Bubbles.

This was such a thoughtful package...thank you so much Hot Socks Swap partner!!

The swaps I have participated in have been so enjoyable that I signed up for another one today. Where the Hot Socks swap was specifically about sock yarn and your swap partner's favorite hot beverage, whatever that may be; this new swap is specific about the hot beverage, which is coffee, and not so specific about the yarn...as long as it is not the crappy stuff.

This is the Knitters Coffee Swap. In this swap, you must love coffee (perfect for the serious coffee connoisseur in me) and be a knitter or crocheter. If you're interested, click the link quick. They are only taking the first 50 people and the sign ups end on November 8th, or earlier if they reach 50 before then.

It's getting close...4 Days Until Stitches

Socks Appeal

2006-10-28T12:55:00.000-05:00

Well, it's happened...I finally understand what all the fuss is about socks!

Since I started knitting (again), close to 4 years ago now, I have not really been interested in knitting socks. I knit a pair a few years ago. They were thick ski socks for my husband. They were knit up in a really nice natural, undyed wool from a rare sheep farm. I enjoyed the process at the time; but, basically had no interest in making more socks.

And then...the power of the internet. Over and over, I would read blogs about sock knitting and sock yarns and sock patterns. I already was addicted to podcasts. And, over and over again, podcaster after podcaster would ooh and aah over sock knitting and all things associated with sock knitting. The Jaywalker pattern came up many, many times. I followed links to blogs where knitters weren't knitting a pair of Jaywalkers; but, could not stop knitting Jaywalkers, so many that a Jaywalker KAL was started. It seemed to me that sock knitting was serious stuff...it was the new scarf. And, the energy was contagious...I wanted to knit a pair of Jaywalkers, too. About this time, my friend N was cleaning up her stash and gave me a skein of Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn.

Pattern: Jaywalkers
Yarn: Cherry Tree Hill 1 skein
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #1/2.5mm 40" Magic Loop
Notes: None

That was all I needed...my own love affair with socks had begun. And, of course, after reading the JanuaryOne blog about her ongoing obsession with Socks That Rock yarn, I wanted STR yarn. But, what's the point of buying just 1 skein of yarn when for the same shipping fee you can buy 4 skeins of yarn? Well, 4 skeins later...one skein went to N and with my first of three STR skeins, I made the RPM socks.

Pattern: RPM (by Aija Goto) from Knitty
Yarn: Blue Moon Fiber Arts STR, 1 skein of Scottish Highlands
Needles: Addi Turbo circular size #1/2.5mm 40" Magic Loop
Notes: Decreased 1 stitch creating a 1-row spiral pattern repeat of K6, P3 on all rounds. Thanks to soapquiltknit for this tip. Used Twisted German Cast On and chose Short Row Heel and Pointed Toe from pattern.

I am now pretty much obsessed with knitting socks...so much so that I have joined the Six Sox KAL, the Townsend Socks KAL (I have not yet knit any socks from this KAL) and the Cascade Fixation Ankle Sock KAL

Pattern: Alison's Ankle Socks
Yarn: Cascade Fixation, 1 ball main color and 1 ball multi-colored for edging
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #5 40" Magic Loop
Notes: None

Pattern: Snake Skin Socks from Six Sox KAL
Yarn: Fearless Fibers, 1 skein Thoroughbred
Needles: Addi Turbo circular, size #1/2.5mm 40" Magic Loop
Notes: Used Twisted German Cast On and Sherman Heel

This photo even made it to the Fearless Fibers blog on October 09...on Mondays, Deb posts customer photos.

I have 2 more sock projects on the needles and many waiting in the wings. And, my sock yarn stash continues to grow. I guess when the sock bug hits, it hits hard.

P.S. I almost forgot...I posted a response to Cecily's challenge...better late than never. I don't know what it all means; but, we'll see what happens.

The countdown continues...5 Days Until Stitches

SP9 Questionnaire

2006-10-04T21:39:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal 9 begins on October 15th. I'm very excited. And, this time I am early in posting my questionnaire. So, here goes:

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love luxurious fibers—cashmere, silk, alpaca, merino wool, or blends of these…especially hand-dyed yarn. I love specialty yarns, like those from small farms or cooperatives, or small hand-spinners or hand-dyers. Also, I get very excited over yarns that I can't normally find at shops around here, yarns like Handmaiden/Fleece Artist or Blue Moon Fiber Arts, to name two.

I definitely am a yarn snob, which I say with no guilt…I openly admit it. I do not like acrylic.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
Currently, my circulars are in The Circular Solution hanger thingy, hanging on my wall. My straights are in a beautiful glass vase that was a wedding gift, just 3 years ago. I don’t have dpn’s since I do all small circular work using the Magic Loop method (1 long circular).

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned to knit about 17 years ago; but, put it aside until about 5 years ago. Now, I’ll never stop again…I love it!

I learned to knit when I took a class at Elizabeth’s Knit Shop, in Chicago, back about 1989, I think. It was a 6 week course and the project we learned to knit was a sweater, which I still have. That's right, the first thing I ever knit was a sweater.

I would consider myself to be an intermediate knitter…don’t really understand fair isle or intarsia too well—all that color changing.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
No, but I’ll look into it.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
Let’s start with what I don’t like—coconut. I tend to like spicey, woodsy scents, an example being Sage n’Citrus, which is a Yankee Candle scent. I also like some fruit scents like apple, melon, etc. I love most Origins scents.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Uh, yeah! Chocolate!!

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I recently learned to crochet…took a class about 7 months ago. I do not spin, yet. I bought a Drop Spindle (and some roving); but, have yet to use it.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like current music, current hits mostly. Some favorite artists are Ben Harper, BlackEyed Peas, David Gilmour, Coldplay, Dave Mathews, Melissa Etheridge, Jack Johnson and The Fray. Yes, my computer plays MP3’s and I also have an iPod (which I love dearly...how else would I be able to listen to all the knitting podcasts!).

9. What's your favorite color(s? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like a lot of colors…jewel tones, soft muted tones. I like black, purple, red, pink, turquoise…depends on my mood. I pretty much stay away from yellow-based colors…tend to prefer cool tones more.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married (3 years this October). I have no children; but, my husband has two, both are in college. We have 4 dogs (2 Greyhounds, a long-haired Dachshund, and a Puggle) and 3 cats. Three of the dogs and 2 of the cats were adoption/rescues.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes, to all.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Mostly accessories, like hats, shawls and fingerless mitts. And, as of the last couple months, socks. The sock bug has finally bitten me. I like the immediate gratification of a small project. Also, I find they keep my interest as there is a lot less repetition in something small.

13. What are you knitting right now?
Currently, I am working on 2 different pairs of socks, the Streakers! Shrug from Interweave knits, a pair of Tilli Tomas fingerless mitts, and the Big Bang Wrap from Sally Melville…to name a few.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Yes

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Circular—My favorite circulars are Knit Picks! My 2nd favorite are Addi Turbo's. For straight needles, my favorite needles are Lantern Moon, 10". I also like other hand-crafted straight needles, preferably no longer than 10-11 inches max.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, to both. I even own a yarn meter...I love gadgets!!!!

17. How old is your oldest UFO?
To be honest, my very oldest UFO is about 16 years old and is an ankle-length Kaffe Fasset coat; but, I don’t know if I will really ever finish it since I have never gotten past the ribbing. Besides that, I also have a beaded scarf project which is about 4 years old…when I first took up knitting again.

I’m a great starter of projects. My greatest knitting joy is starting something new. However, recently, after counting up how many projects I actually have currently on needles, I have been in a finishing mode. I have finished 7 projects in the last month.

18. What is your favorite holiday?
My birthday! Then, my Anniversary. Besides those, Thanksgiving.

19. Is there anything that you collect?
I guess you could say yarn, or UFO’s, or dogs...The real answer is “no.”

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I usually do buy books that I want; I have a pretty good collection. I subscribe to Interweave Knits, Knitters and , as a member of TKGA, I receive a subscription for Cast-On (they have good articles).

I would like to try the Socks That Rock yarn, in the thicker gauge. Also, Fleece Artist sock yarn and Schaeffer Ann sock yarn. Also, would love to try a skein of Sea Silk yarn from Handmaiden...actually anything from Handmaiden would be scrumptious. There are also a few fibers that are interesting to me, like Buffalo and Camel yarns.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I would like to try color work like fair isle or intarsia. Would like to try a pair of Toe-Up Socks.

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, I have become an avid sock knitter in the last couple of months. My shoe size is 9 (big foot), which measures 10 inches long. My foot measures 9 inches around the ball of the foot.

24. When is your birthday?
02/28

The countdown continues...29 Days Until Stitches

Knit Yourself Silly

2006-10-01T22:01:00.000-05:00

I found this knitting music video and thought I would share...hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

After watching this video a few times, this saying came to mind:

I knit; therefore, I frog.

The countdown continues...32 Days Until Stitches

I Took a Quiz...

2006-09-22T20:01:00.000-05:00

What Kind of Knitter Are You?

You appear to be a Knitting Guru. You love knitting and do it all the time. While finishing a piece is the plan, you still love the process, and can't imagine a day going by without giving some time to your yarn. Packing for vacation involves leaving ample space for the stash and supplies.
It can be hard to tell where the yarn ends and you begin.
http://marniemaclean.com
Take this quiz!

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The countdown continues...41 Days Until Stitches

Singles: Looking For Mates

2006-09-14T11:41:00.000-05:00

I have a problem. You've heard of SSS - otherwise known as the dreaded "Second Sock Syndrome?" Well, I have SAS. That's right, SAS - "Second Anything Syndrome."

Let's trace it back to the beginning. Somewhere around 1990, I took a class to learn how to make socks. In that class, we made a baby sock and were to complete the second sock on our own. I never did. Here is my first single.

I must say when I look at the detail of this sock, I am pretty impressed with myself...not a hole to be found along that gusset. And, the toe looks neat and clean. Did I do Kitchener? I can't remember; but, I don't do Kitchener as well today.

I managed to rationalize never finishing my pair of baby socks because I figured that it was more of a learning experience and I didn't know anyone to give baby socks to, so I bought some nice cotton-blend yarn to start a pair of socks for myself.

Well, I did learn well. Here is my next single.

Not long after, I gave up knitting for several years. It wasn't until February of 2002 that I started knitting again. I had some DPN's from before; but, there was a new Fiber Trends book out called The Magic Loop. I bought the book and decided to give it a try. After practicing as instructed in the book, I continued on to what they suggest you try as a first Magic Loop project, Ribbed and Ruffled Wristlets. I made a wristlet...my next single.

A little over a year ago, it was announced that my boss and his wife were expecting twins. I will make them a set of baby hats. Quick and easy...no heels to turn, no gusset stitches to pick up...I should be able to crank this out. I finished the girl jester hat, never started the boy hat. And, my next single was born.

Then on to cashmere wristers...how many do you see?

Last August, I went to Stitches Midwest and took a great class to learn to make Beaded Wrist Warmers. As you can see, only one of my wrists will be warm.

This past February, I went to Florida where I bought a beautiful skein of Tilli Tomas sequined yarn and made this single fingerless mitt.

Over the summer, I bought a skein of Elsebeth Lavold Angora and mixed it with a novelty yarn to make this one mittlet (actually, I still haven't completed the thumb--notice the stitch holder) . Do you see a pattern here? I guess if I were Michael Jackson, it might be okay to wear just one glove; but, since I'm not...it's not.

I am currently attempting to change my (evil) ways. This hat and bootie set was originally started for K whom I work with when she was also pregnant with twins. I needed 2 hats and 4 booties. I completed 1 hat and 1 bootie, until recently when I made the 2nd bootie completing this set and have given them away to C who just had a baby boy. Whew!

A couple of weeks ago, I decided it would be fun to make a list of all the projects I still have on needles. I won't reveal how many there were. I may tell the number in a future post; but, suffice it to say that if Guinness has a world record on this topic, I could be in the running. Since making the list, I have curbed my Castonitis and focused on finishing a few things. Specifically, I made the deal with myself that if I finished 5 UFO, then I could cast on something new. The booties and hat shown above was #1. These tennis socks are FO #2. I started them a year ago and had completed just one, of course, up to only the toe.

Kudos for me! I have also finished a pair, yes, it's true...a pair of socks. And, before I cast on again, I will give at least 1 of the singles shown above a mate.

The countdown continues...49 Days Until Stitches

Have I Mentioned...?

2006-09-07T12:39:00.000-05:00

I'm going to Stitches!! Stitches East 2006, in Baltimore Maryland, November 2-5, 2006! Yahoo! La, la di da!! (That's me...doing the happy dance!) Can you tell?...I'm beyond excited!

Last year, I entered a contest at my (not so) LYS. I wrote an essay of 500 words or less on "why they should take me with them to Stitches Midwest," in Chicago; and I won. I had an amazing, amazing time! If you love fiber, love knitting, love to be "in the know" on all things knitting-related, get excited at seeing all the people whose books and magazines you read...there is nothing else like Stitches!

When I received the mailer for Stitches East, I so wanted to go. My friends, who have not been to Stitches before, don't understand the appeal. We normally go together to Vermont for a girls knitting weekend twice a year - beginning of May and beginning of November; and, the Stitches dates conflict with this. So, they don't want to go...no matter, I can go by myself because, let's face it...there are hundreds (maybe thousands, I don't know) of other knitters like myself going...I'm not really by myself.

When my darling husband came home that night, I told him that I knew what I wanted for our anniversary gift and Hanukkah (I knew I was asking for a lot so I thought making it a combined gift would be helpful)..."I want to use your frequent flyer miles for airfare, rewards points for the Marriott Hotel, and be able to take classes, etc., and have spending money to go to Stitches in November." And, before I knew it, he had made my airfare and hotel reservations. Have I mentioned what a sweet, wonderful man I married?!

I am now enrolled for the Opening Day Presentation - with Kaffe Fassett!!! Also, the Fashion Show, the Student Banquet, and 5 different classes. I will be taking classes with famous knitters, whose books I have ...Debbie New, Maggie Jackson and Fiona Ellis. I can hardly wait! And...the market!!! Have you been? Have you seen it? OMG!

And, like last year when I went to Stitches Midwest, my loving husband will be home doing the cat and dog care...

Have I mentioned how fantastic my hubby is?!

The countdown begins...56 Days Until Stitches

A Gift of Many Colors

2006-08-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

Last night, I got home from work late; it was after 10 pm when I saw the brown box that had been delivered. Seeing as the hubby is out of town, I am the only one on dog and cat duty. So, I placed the box on the counter until I had the time to open it. It was difficult to not just say "screw the animals, I'm opening my package!" But, I went about my duties of changing out of my work clothes, taking 4 dogs out to do their duty (no pun intended), and then feeding 4 dogs and 3 cats. It was now after 11pm when I grabbed a glass of wine, my brown box, and headed into bed, accompanied by 2 dogs and 2 cats.

When I opened the box the first thing I saw was an envelope telling me to wait to open the letter until I had unwrapped everything...very mysterious. But, generally being good at following instructions, that is just what I did.

(sorry about the blurriness)

When I lifted out the envelope, and the shipping paper, etc., this is what I saw...

How beautiful! And, exciting, too! I carefully opened each individual colored wrap. I took my time and enjoyed every moment! It was so much fun...thank you Secret Pal for that!

A bounty of goodies awaited me. She sent 3 knitting patterns with the yarn to complete all 3 projects. Knowing that I am not a good finisher of larger projects, they were all for small accessory-type items...and there was more.

One of the 3 patterns was for a Textured Slip Stitch Dishcloth, and yarn for both a yellow-based and lavender-based cloth. The second pattern was for a Baby Feet Cloth (I'm not sure what that is but it looks like a fun, interesting pattern and I can't wait to start), and the yarn, and the 3rd pattern was for a beautiful lacey neck covering, with a skein of luxurious teal colored Alpaca to make it with. In addition, she sent some delicious smelling apple soap, a book on preparing Fingerfood, 2 packs of gum-sour cherry and sour apple-, point protectors for circular needles, and chocolate covered cookie wafers...yummy! And, the inside of the box smelled fabulous...I think it was from the soap.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! What a great package! I guess you did get to know me, after all.

Oh, back to the white envelope. The note inside explained how she decided on the items and revealed who she was. Even though it seemed to lull Patriot and Jonathan to sleep; for me, this package was so much fun to open.

So, once again, thank you! I really appreciate all that you did...Peaceable Imperatrix.

If It's You

2006-08-29T10:09:00.000-05:00

Being that this is the first Secret Pal that I have participated in, I'm not sure what is considered appropriate protocol for the reveal. I looked through blogs of past participants; but, still am not sure if you are supposed to wait for your spoiler to reveal to you or guess who you think it is. I mailed out my final package to my spoilee last week without revealing anything. Yesterday, I mailed off a postcard to her finally revealing myself.

That being said...I think I know who my Secret Pal is. I have not received my last package yet (although I think she sent it around the 24th); but, the list has been up for a week. I figured it out right away; but, as my spoiler knows, I am a 'slow' blogger and I wasn't sure if I would be ruining anything by letting on that I know...so I think.

You were a great spoiler! And, if it's you, I totally agree with you about the power of receiving things in the mail. I loved receiving fun, special mail! The cards, the CD, the puzzle...all were very exciting to me...and, I do have a life; but, it's not often that people mail things anymore.

If it's you, I also agree about putting the packages together. I had so much fun doing that and spent the whole 3 months planning and gathering up what I would ultimately send to my spoilee. I put a lot of thought into what I truly thought she would like and I think I was a good spoiler. My spoilee certainly wrote about it as if I was, so I feel good about that.

If it's you, I know I have not been the best at blogging. But, actually, there were in total 10 posts (yes, 7 starting with the questionnaire) that would help you know me. Not everyone is as comfortable with words as you are. For whatever reasons that I don't even know, I have found myself to be very inhibited and intimidated to write. I seriously have probably 10 posts planned out in my head; yet, have procrastinated about actually posting the words. If it's you, good thing I didn't know you were a writer before it started or I probably would have been even more scared to write knowing you would be reading my words.

If it's you, I think you would make a great hostess...and probably, I should be in your group. I could use the kick in the pants for motivation. Stacyo was also a bit of a hardass (in a good way!) and it helped me to post.

If it's you, I have 3 cats; but, my cat Jonathan is a cat who thinks he's a dog...and, ever since "The Honeymooners" (hopefully you are old enough to remember that), I have loved the name Trixie...

So, if it's you, thanks for everything, so far! I will certainly let you know when I get the last package. Sorry, I didn't blog enough...I wanted to.

P.S. If it's you, sorry about your bushes...but, sounds like you have a plan should there be a next time.

Baby Groove

2006-08-14T18:10:00.000-05:00

My secret pal spoilee (who, by the way, is due with her first baby any day now) has been knitting a plethora (I just love using that word) of baby items! It is unbelievable how many things she has completed recently...

This has definitely inspired me to knit baby things. At first, I didn't think I had any babies to knit for; but then I realized that I do. Best of all, I get the gratification of a finished item in a relatively short amount of time. I started by buying this book Itty-bitty Hats.

The first hat I knit was this "upside-down daisy" hat from the book.

I then remembered that I had never given a gift to a girl who I work with who was pregnant with twins. I started knitting hats and booties early on; but, got stuck when I got to the second hat. I seem to have that second-anything syndrome. She had twin boys. They just had their first birthday. Oops! Since the hats and booties were a 3 month size, it wasn't long before they were no longer a suitable gift. So, I looked in the book and made these hats in a 1-2 years size.

Now that I was in the baby knitting groove, I decided to try out a pattern from the One Skein book. I made the Baby Bolero which is a newborn size and I will be sending it in my last package to my spoilee. It is made out of Blue Sky Alpaca Organic Cotton which is amazingly soft and free of any dyes.

Finally, since hats are probably my most favorite thing to knit, I knit one for myself. They are always for myself when I knit them, but since I already have so many completed hats "for myself," it is very possible it may end up being a gift at some point. This Droplet Hat is from the beautiful Knitting Nature book.

Since I can't take a decent picture of my knitting to save my life, it is hard to see the detail. The bobbles are supposed to represent water droplets running down a trail of leaves. It was a fun pattern to knit and I knit it out of 1 skein of Donegal Tweed.

My next baby project to complete is the hat and booties that I started for the twins. I know someone else who is expecting a boy mid September and I will only need 1 set so I should be able to get my act together to complete the booties on time.

Thanks Secret Pal!

2006-07-21T22:52:00.000-05:00

I received a Mix CD from my secret pal with some fabulous latin music on it. Between J and I, we have a gazillion CD's and I don't think we even have one that has latin music on it. The evening that I received the CD, I was playing it while I was in the kitchen cooking a marinara sauce (recipe from The Knitting Cook podcast). I was cooking, I was drinking a Mike's Hard Lemonade, and I was dancing around to the music. J came in and made some joke about what I was listening to...yet, within minutes, he was shaking his hips, too.

Well, I think I have played this CD at least 10 times since then...I love this music! Thanks, Secret Pal!

P.S. Feel free to share additional information such as song title, artist, etc.

Rumor Has It

2006-07-17T09:37:00.000-05:00

Ok, here's what happened...

After Blue Jeans left, I was really quite distressed and it went on for several days. Every time I thought about him I cried, even though I knew that he had gone to a great home. I was fortunate to have met the adopters and truly believe that Blue Jeans would be happier with them than at my house. He wanted to be an only dog and that would not be the case if I had kept him.

So what, then, was causing such torment inside of me? Well, I sat down and figured it out. I knew that it was best for Blue Jeans that he go to this new home, but... what did Blue Jeans think? I may be anthropomorphizing by asking that question; but, we don't really know to what extent dogs think, or feel. Did he think I had abandoned him? Or, worse still, did he think that he had done something wrong to cause us to give him up? Not knowing the answers to these questions was what was tearing me up inside and the reason for my daily tears.

About a week ago, I was standing in front of the bathroom mirror trying to get ready for work. It was difficult to put in my contacts and put on makeup because my eyes were red and wet. That's when my dog Rumor came in. I looked into his big brown eyes and asked "Rumor, help me understand...what was it like for you when you left your foster home and came to live with us? Did you feel you had been abandoned?" "No, because I knew that I was right where I was supposed to be" was the answer that immediately came back to me.

Did I experience animal communication? Am I crazy? Or, did what I already know to be true just finally come to the surface? I don't have these answers. All I can tell you is what happened. And, that since then, I have felt a sense of gratitude and relief...and I have been able to move forward.

Rumor

Happy Birthday Blue Jeans!

2006-07-01T12:19:00.000-05:00

Blue Jeans is 4 years old today. His birthday gift...he finally has a forever home.

Blue Jeans was my foster Greyhound...my first foster. Well, technically my dog Rumor was my first foster; but, I don't count him because I never intended for anyone else to adopt him. I knew we would adopt him from day one.

Blue Jeans last race was in the middle of May. About 2 weeks later, I picked him up at the animal hospital where he had been neutured, had his teeth cleaned, vaccinated, wormed, etc.

He lived with us for 5 weeks and it is amazing how quickly I became attached to him, and him to me. We wanted to adopt him even though we live in a very small house and already have 2 Greyhounds. But, he showed us pretty clearly that he preferred to be the only Greyhound in the family and was very willing and ready to soak up all the attention. So, I had to let him go.

A fabulous couple living in the South End of Boston adopted him. They have no other dogs and no children...just 2 cats. They will totally spoil him. They already have a list of things they are buying for him, the doggie bakeries they will take him to, his daily walk schedule, and a local Greyhound group that meets for weekly walks. How wonderful is that?!?

I feel good about what I did for Blue Jeans. I was his coach...his tutor...for 5 weeks. I taught him how to get in a car, go up and down stairs, and how to live in a house. I know he will be happy where he was placed. So, this morning, on his 4th birthday, Blue Jeans was picked up to be delivered to his home. Though in tears, I gave him a hug and a kiss and sent him on his way.

And, still I am so sad. I really miss him...

Happy Birthday, Blue Jeans!

More information on adopting or fostering a Greyhound can be found locally for NH through Greyhound Pets of America-Central New Hampshire Chapter, or nationally through GPA.

Yarmulke, Anyone?

2006-06-25T08:23:00.000-05:00

Whew! I finished my Dad's birthday present and it is in the mail to him. I knit him 3 Yarmulkes, pattern from the Greetings from Knit Cafe book. I'm sure he will love this gift. I have never knit for him. I did crochet him a yarmulke once...oh, about 40 years ago, when I was at Camp Ramah (the kind of camp where you would learn this sort of thing) in Wisconsin.

If you're not familiar, I thought I'd show you how the yarmulke is worn...first being modeled by my husband...then being modeled by my cat Jonathan.

SP8 Package Received

2006-06-21T17:17:00.000-05:00

Look what my Secret Pal sent me! What a lovely box of goodies. There is some beautiful blue brushed alpaca yarn, a nice note, and goodies from her home state of Iowa including informational pencils, dill mustard, dog treats from the local dog bakery, and treats for me ...Craisinberry Crunch and Roasted Field Corn.

Also being from the midwest (born and raised in the Chicago area), I am quite familiar with corn, and corn fields. As a matter of fact, thinking about this reminded of my summer of skydiving.

Many (too many) years ago, I learning how to skydive, spending about 7 weeks time and completing a total of 5 actual jumps. The small airport where this all took place was in Hebron, Illinois. Now, in Illinois, there is the Chicago area, and the rest of Illinois...which is all flat and filled with corn fields. Hebron was located in this area of Illinois.

The airport was located across the road from corn fields. Every jump I made, I landed in the corn fields. I tried and tried; but, it didn't matter...each time I parachuted over the airport where I would wave at my instructor and the other skydivers below, cross the road (and the telephone poles), and ultimately land amongst the corn stalks.

The first jump, early in the summer, didn't matter too much. The corn was about knee high. However, by my last jump which was only about 7 weeks later, the corn was way taller than me. The corn was so tall that I could not find my way out. Yes, I was lost in the corn. Embarrassingly, my instructor had to come and rescue me from the corn fields.

That was the last time I went skydiving.

Thanks for the memories, Secret Pal...

SP8 Questionnaire

2006-06-01T19:30:00.000-05:00

Dear Secret Pal,

Please accept my apologies ... I am a bad blogger. Here is my questionnaire...long overdue...but filled with detailed information on my likes and dislikes. Hope it helps...

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I love luxurious fibers—cashmere, silk, alpaca, merino wool, or blends of these…especially hand-dyed yarn. Also, I love specialty yarns, like from small farms or cooperatives. I get very excited over yarns that I can't normally find at shops around here, yarns like Handmaiden/Fleece Artist or Blue Moon Fiber Arts, to name two. I definitely am a yarn snob, which I say with no guilt…I openly admit it. I do not like acrylic.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
Currently, my circulars are in The Circular Solution hanger-thing hanging on my wall. My straights are in a beautiful glass vase that was a wedding gift. I don’t have dpn’s since I do all small circular work using the Magic Loop method (1 long circular).

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned to knit about 17 years ago; but, put it aside until about 4 years ago. Now, I’ll never stop again…I love it! I would consider myself to be an intermediate knitter…don’t really understand fair isle or intarsia too well—all that color changing.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
No, but I’ll look into it.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
Let’s start with what I don’t like—coconut. I tend to like spicey, woodsy scents, an example being Sage n’Citrus, which is a Yankee Candle scent. I also like some fruit scents like apple, melon, etc. I love most Aveda scents (Origins, too). (I work with Aveda so I get their products at cost.)

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Uh, yeah! Chocolate!!

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I just learned to crochet…took a class about 6 months ago. I do not spin…yet…am considering it. I just bought a Drop Spindle (and some roving); but, have yet to use it.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like current music, current hits mostly. Some favorite artists are Coldplay, Dave Mathews, Sting, and Tracy Chapman. Yes, my computer plays MP3’s and I also have an iPod (which I love dearly).

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like a lot of colors…jewel tones, soft muted tones. I like black, purple, red, pink, turquise…depends on my mood. I pretty much stay away from yellow-based colors…tend to prefer cool tones more.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married (will be 3 years in October). I have no children; but, my husband has two, both are in college. We have 4 dogs (2 Greyhounds, 1 long-haired Dachshund, and a Puggle) and 3 cats. Three of the dogs and 2 of the cats were adoption rescues.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes, to all.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
Mostly accessories, like hats, shawls and fingerless mitts. I like the immediate gratification of a small project. Also, I find they keep my interest as there is a lot less repetition in something small. I start a lot of scarves, too; but, don’t finish as many because I can get a little bored with scarves (that repetition-thing). Once I get a pattern down, I tend to want to start something new.

13. What are you knitting right now?
Yikes, too many to list. As you may have figured out by now, I am a GREAT starter…love, love, love starting new projects! Let’s see, though, I am working on the Short n’ Sweet crochet shrug from Happy Hooker. Also, the Streakers! Shrug from Interweave knits, a pair of fingerless mitts, a lace stole (pattern from Vogue Knitting), and the Big Bang Wrap from Sally Melville…to name a few.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Yes

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Circular—Addi Turbos are my favorite. My new favorite circulars...drum roll, please...Knit Picks! For straight needles, my favorite needles are Lantern Moon, 10".

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, to both. I even own a yarn meter...love the gadgets!!!!

17. How did you learn to knit?
I took a class at Elizabeth’s Knit Shop, in Chicago, back about 1989, I think. It was a 6 week course and the project we learned to knit was a sweater, which I still have.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?
To be honest, my oldest UFO is about 15 years old and is an ankle-length Kaffe Fasset coat…I don’t know if I will really ever finish it since I have never gotten past the ribbing. Besides that, I also have a beaded scarf project which is about 4 years old…when I first took up knitting again. Like I mentioned…I’m a great starter.

19. What is your favorite holiday?
My birthday! Then, my Anniversary. Besides those, Thanksgiving.

20. Is there anything that you collect?
I guess you could say yarn, or UFO’s, or dogs. The real answer is “no.”

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I usually do buy books that I want, I have a pretty good collection. I subscribe to Interweave Knits, Knitters and , as a member of TKGA, I receive a subscription for Cast-On (which is my least favorite, although they do sometimes have good articles). I would like to try the Socks That Rock yarn, maybe in the thicker gauge. Also, would love to try a skein of Sea Silk yarn from Handmaiden...actually anything from Handmaiden would be scrumptious.

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
With knitting…color work like fair isle or intarsia. Would like to try a pair of Toe-Up Socks. Also, spinning,

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I have knit socks, mostly singles (what a surprise!). I keep trying to get more excited over sock knitting because I would like to be able to wear hand-knitted socks; but they come in pairs and that is an issue for me. I recently tried knitting 2 socks at once…another UFO…too complicated, not fun. My shoe size is 9 (big foot), which measures 10 inches long (normal width).

24. When is your birthday?
02/28

"All Time Favorite Show!"

2006-05-03T14:30:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday night, my husband and I saw the musical Wicked at The Opera House, in Boston. We first saw Wicked last May when we were in Chicago. I fell in love with it then, and quickly declared it my "All Time Favorite Show!"

So, when we heard it was going to be playing in Boston, we decided it would be nice to take J's daughter for her birthday. And, I wondered...almost a year later...would it still be my "All Time Favorite Show!"? We had great seats...5th Row Center...actually, these seats were almost too close.

And, the answer is Yes! Wicked is still my "All Time Favorite Show!"

We liked the show so much that when we adopted our 4th dog (that's right, our 4th) in December, we (re)named her Elphaba...Elphie for short.

Our little Elphie

Good Thing I'm Left-Handed

2006-04-26T22:51:00.000-05:00

After being gone all day, I came home and found my left mitten on the kitchen floor. This set of mittens is made from the Love Collection, designs by Dawn Brocco, knit with Plymouth Alpaca Boucle. I love these mittens. They are soft, warm and very comfortable. I just finished them this February; so, they have only been worn a few times.

Where is the other mitten?

Found it! It was on the floor in the den. This is what the right mitten now looks like...

This is Stella...Stella is a very bad dog...Ugh!

It's all about my knitting!

2006-04-24T15:18:00.000-05:00

I never thought I'd be blogging...really, I didn't. I don't feel like I have as much time as I'd like now for knitting. I have a part-time job, that I enjoy; but, it does definitely get in the way of my knitting time...although, it does pay for yarn. I have some other home-related responsibilities, which also get in the way of what I really love...which is knitting, and other things related to knitting. (I wish I could make money doing something knitting-related; but, I haven't figured that out yet.) I also read many knitting-related blogs, of course...love them...so, who would have thought that I would think I had the time to write a blog of my own? Certainly, not me! So, that brings up the question then of why am I blogging?

Quite simply, I am blogging because I want to participate in the current Secret Pal...which is Secret Pal 8. I first heard about Secret Pal awhile back...I think it was Secret Pal 5. Ran right over to the website only to discover that I needed a blog to join...big sigh...guess I can't join. Then, there was Secret Pal 6...I wanted to join; but, I knew that I did not meet the blogging requirement. Secret Pal 7 somehow slipped past me, and then, Secret Pal 8. I was very excited when I heard and, strangely enough, I had forgotten about the blog requirement.. I quickly went to the website only to be reminded that you had to have a blog to participate. So...here I am.

Who knows? I may really get into this whole blogging phenomenon. Anyway, that's it for now... my dogs and cats (my children) are hungry and must be fed. Next time, however, I will share with you what I'm knitting currently...and hopefully, show some pictures, as well. Oh, hell...today, I have been working on my Streakers Shrug from Interweave Knits Spring 2006...more to follow...