misknits

2010-05-28T04:20:00.005-04:00

Since I got in the bed nice and early for the wool festival.... I was quite the early bird the next morning! I had time to enjoy the trip to the fiber festival and snap some great photos.I really couldn't resist these guys... I actually kept pulling off the road, getting out, and catching some amazing photos. I'll drizzle out more this week. : )

Soon I arrived to Masterson's Station Park in Lexington, Kentucky where the festival was taking place! This little lamb was so cute. It's foster mother was quite charming herself.Punkin' Patch's booth while she was off shearing sheep or helping do something.....I had to get the balls of yarn just laying around.

There was a photography, fleece, and spinning judging. I love this photo. I love pictures of sheep though! Such a nice fat fleece on it. It makes me want to sink my hands into it. Weird? Nah.

This is my skein. It was reserve champion which I was really pleased with. The comments stated it needed to be wet blocked. It was.... twice. But that's fine by me! I'm happy with what I got. I don't think I'm that great of a spinner so I was really pleased with the results. I also entered a skein of handspun quiviut with comments of needs to be more even. Let me tell you spinning a fiber that is about the length of a guinea pig's hair tends to be a little difficult to keep even. I thought it was quite nice considering those factors.... but whatevah. It was fun to do and a good experience. Was that whiny? Oh my I hope not. LOL!

There was shearing, of course.

It was also the Border Collie Trials so there were lots of these little guys running around. It's always fun to watch them do their work.

It was a great festival....I'm looking forward to doing it again next year!

My tip for today..... go to a fiber event this summer. You'll have so much fun, spend so much money, and make great new friends!!!!

2010-05-27T02:15:00.004-04:00

Look at me... I just keep showing up.

This tip actually comes from Sam.... I was fussing once about putting zippers into cardigans. Sam suggested that I try double sided tape that is used for scrapbooking. This is like the greatest thing ever! You just stick the tape to the zipper and then place it into the sweater. You can move it around and make adjustments. I place the tape, and then sew the zipper into place with needle and thread. I try to remove the tape as much as possible, but I don't worry if some stays on.

Soon I'm going to post about Kentucky Sheep and Fiber! Here is a sneak peek!

Sheep just crack me up.....

2010-05-26T09:26:00.003-04:00

Today's tip is a gauge swatching tip.....

First you should always swatch with the same brand and material of needles that you plan to use for your project. I get asked a lot how many stitches should be cast on to make "the swatch". I have found a good way to get your answer for this is to look at the gauge of the pattern. If it is 5 sts. per in. I multiply that by four and that is how many I cast on.

Peace and love from Tot and her new socks! : )

2010-05-25T19:52:00.003-04:00

In trying to make myself blog more I've been thinking what I can do......
I've decided to have a tip a day.... hey! that's my goal.... I may miss a few. ; )
Okay, back to the tips. I'm going to try to think of things you may not know.
So here is the tip for today.
When beginning a new project.... make sure that you start knitting with the correct end of your yarn. If you run your fingers down the strand of yarn it will feel either smooth or rough and you will be able to feel the fibers. If it is smooth and not "fibery" you are going correctly. If it feels rough and fibery you are knitting against the fibers and NOT going the right way. I didn't know this for a long time. You may have to rewind a ball of yarn at times to get the fibers travelling in the correct direction. This can effect how your stitches lie. It is best to use the yarn with the fibers travelling in the correct direction.

2010-05-24T13:09:00.002-04:00

I love a good fleece. This one is exceptional. It is about a nine pound raw cormo fleece. This fleece was blanketed and skirted very well at shearing.I'm going to show a little bit of the process. I start by taking a very thin towel and taking the locks in small chunks. I line them in two rows fold them up and submerge them into a almost boiling pan of water on the stove.
I allow them to steam for about an hour. I remove the whole bundle, lay it aside, change my water and resubmerge the bundle. I let it steam for however long I feel is good. ; )

I do this twice with a wool soap or Dawn dish liquid. Then I do two steaming rinses on the stove. I lay the bundle aside to allow it to cool. When the bundle is cool enough for me to handle I gently squeeze the excess water out of the locks.

This is what they look like after they've had a bath. I lay them on a drying rack until they are fully dry. I prefer outside but that's not always possible so then I lay them all over the kitchen table. Mmmmm what's for dinner!?

This is a lovely little lock all washed and fresh! This fleece is so nice that I'm putting off spinning it. I just love to look at the crimp.

2010-05-24T12:58:00.002-04:00

Well the snow finally melted. ; )

After seven long years.... the wisteria decided to bloom. I was so excited!Tot amazed me with this. Yay!

These snuck in late one night.

They grew so fast. I am attached to every single one. I'm thinking they might be attached to me also. What a way to spend the evening.

2010-02-24T03:06:00.002-05:00

There's a new shop in town.... it's called Ball and Skein.... you should really come check it out. I heard they moved into a bigger building....

I heard it was located at 48 E. Market St. Germantown, Oh. 45327

I think that's just at the other end of the block, still on the same street. Right next door to the original Cherry st. shop. I like to remember it as going to the Market to buy Cherries...heh heh

It's the coziest lil' place in town. And they have an awesome coffee pot. Mmmm hmmm.

I heard instead of having knitting olympics that the owner decided to do moving yarn and fiber olympics with her family. Is their an event for that?

You probably should go check it out.

I'm hanging out there all day tomorrow.

I can't wait!

2010-02-18T01:09:00.002-05:00

Olympic knitting to me this year was going to be simple. Mindless. Two projects. Both totally possible to complete in the amount of time alloted. Here are Kidsilk Haze and Dream In Color in Chinatown Apple. A ribbed scarf.
But then Anne showed up in the afternoon and we started talking about Sprossling and the possibilities of knitting it up in Briar Rose's Sea Pearl. Enough said. It was on.
Anne Hanson, also known as Knitspot was here for the weekend doing some workshops! We were kicking off the olympics as a shop so she joined us for opening ceremonies at the local pub. We had some food, drinks, and a lot of this was going on.....Much too soon the night had to end. I woke up to this. Surely a sign of good things to come. Indeed it was! The day was filled with a great Sweater Fitness workshop. This was a 6 hour class designed to help you really figure out what your shape is, your exact measurements, and how to adapt knowing these things in your knitting to use them in the best way for your own body. I loved this. It was fabulous! I think it is something a lot of us as knitters need to put more thought into sometimes. The results can be amazing.

Anne was wearing Jackie's Leisure Jacket, her own design, when she pulled it out to show us in the sweater workshop all I could think and say was Chanel. This is an awesome piece. I fell in love. Such a versatile piece.....and a must in the wardrobe. Briar kept chanting to me. So this is my Jackie to be.........

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Anne. She is so lovely to be around. I wish I could have had even more time with her. I was sad when it was time to go. Hopefully she will be back in Germantown again soon!

I love when I have one of these workshops. When they go home I am so exhausted but my heart is full. My love for the craft is ignited. My mind is so full and satisfied.

Thank you to everyone that participated in the workshops.

Anne.....thank you for sharing your knowledge....and Grandma's cast on!

Hugs and love

2010-02-08T00:33:00.005-05:00

It snowed quite a bit over the weekend...

Here is a view of the back yard. Look at my poor birch trees. This limb bending to the right is about to break. The snow has frozen to the branches. It must come off. We're expecting 5-7 more inches this week. It's pretty, but I'm over it.

I needed some warmth. For me that is Bugga some kind of Blowfly. It's warm with that teal like black that I just love! Tot says it looks like Halloween time. I think that translate to fall.

What to do with it? Hmm. How about a Japanese Stole to get in the mood for Anne! The snowy weather allowed for some good progress.

Who made brownies? Who stuck their face in the bowl?

Vesper Vanilla in Tequila Sunrise. This has been living in the stash for far too long. One down. One on the needles working on the heel flap. Yay! Almost a pair.

Ishbel. Twisted Fiber Art. Love, love, love. Another great pattern by Ysolda. And the yarn. Yum. Muse a silk/merino blend.

Shetland Triangle by Evelyn Clark. Twisted Fiber Arts Kabam. Another great yarn. I love this. I loved knitting with the yarn. It's seriously addicting. I could so easily place a huge order from Twisted. I want to try it all. It's fabulous. Muse was my favorite though. It is unbelievably soft. The colorway is Lagoon. Ishbel is Firefly.

Lace is my new obsession...............

2010-01-19T12:12:00.001-05:00

I finished a scarf for the hub for the holidays......

I'm glad the holidays are behind me....even though I love them.

The cat has the right idea for this time of year. It's cold, dreary, and nothing warms me or the cat like a big basket of wool.
Happy New Year.
May it be full of love, warmth, and prosperity.

2009-12-27T04:45:00.002-05:00

This is something I've thought alot about over the last few days. What do I say? Why has this happened? Why is it the brightest stars in my life are snatched from me? Why do I love so deeply? Why does it kill my soul? When will it feel better? When these things happen I feel like I revert back to about a 6 year old mentality. I get very angry and I cry alot.

Cancer has stripped me of loved ones over and over. A 14 year old family member stolen by Leukemia. A few years later my dear uncle who was like a father to me taken by prostate cancer when my daughter was just a few weeks old. Last year before I flew out to Rhinebeck, I attended the funeral of one of my best friends. Becky introduced me to "good" yarn and taught me to knit. Taken from me way to soon by breast cancer. This year, almost one year later, I lose another great knitter....Dana.

Now I don't know what cancer has taken this interest in the people I love for. But I know I don't like it. I hate it. I hate cancer. I'm afraid of it. I wonder who it has it's sights on next.

I have learned some things through these losses. I have learned to be a better friend. I have learned to be there....all the way to the end, even if it is hard for me to do. I have learned to let the tears fall. Let them fall right on the person. Let them know the depth of your love for them. Let them know how much you will miss them when they are gone. Let them know what an impact they have had on your life. Let them know YOU are a better person for having them in your life for the time you had them. Let them know that you will be there for them until they are no more.

Christmas had a whole different look to me this year. As I watched everyone around me enjoying the festivities. I couldn't help feeling the burning ache in my heart for the loss of my dear friend. It was real life. It wasn't covered in lights and blurred by the holiday. It was a burning hole in my heart.

It was a darkness created by a star in my life that had been snuffed out all to soon.

Let people know you love them. It may be the only chance you have.

2009-11-23T00:01:00.004-05:00

London calling....

So I must attend...

This event is being hosted by two of my most favs... Socktopus and Cookie!!!

Guaranteed to be loads of fun!

Top of the line instructors.... Anna Zilboorg, Nancy Bush, Beth Brown-Reinsel, Judith McKenzie-McCuin, J.C. Briar, and many more.... go here KnitNation

2009-11-16T11:48:00.009-05:00

Last Thursday morning was a beautiful, sunny, fall day and I was heading out to Mansfield, Ohio to meet up with Cookie A. and Anne . We met up at Doc's Deli for lunch where we entertained with our "knitting party" and in return we were entertained with magic tricks! It was a great little place! We knit for a while and then it was time for Cookie and I to head back to Germantown for the evenings class.

Cookie reluctantly said goodbye to Anne. Anne and I agreed to get to work on an event here in town and to keep in touch. I wanted to load Anne up too.....

When Cookie and I got back to the shop the knitters were in full swing! Kimber from Fiber Optic Yarns came toting LOTS of yummy goodness! We dove right in claiming this skein and that. Cookie found a great skein called Blackbird that matched her and her hair perfectly!

After that....it was time to get class started. Everyone was excited about getting creative with stitch patterns. Cookie was excellent! We had a great evening!

Everyone went right to work swatching!

The next morning Carole and I met up with Cookie for breakfast. Yes Carole was here all the way from New Jersey! It was great to have her attend the event too!

After lunch and some knitting we went out to the gazebo for a class photo!

I enjoyed having Cookie here so much! It was a great time. I wish that I could have hung around Friday night.....but I had commitments and Cookie had quite an early flight. So we parted ways....with me begging her to promise to come back soon.

So now.... all I'm left with is Crumbs. What I'm lovingly calling my sock I designed in class. I can't wait until we meet again......

2009-10-01T13:58:00.000-04:00

Okay...so I talked to Abby and it seems I can get more of the Hummingbird....here it is!

3 available

2009-10-01T13:18:00.000-04:00

Shake A Tail Feather

50%Merino

45% Tussah Silk

4% Firestar Nylon

1% Angelina Mylar

100% Fab Franquemont

0 available

Sunset Sky

35% Merino

35% Organic Merino

30% Tussah Silk

100% Lovely

16 available

Algae Tweed

50% Merino

25% Tussah Silk

15% Bombyx Silk

10% Cashmere

100% Delightful

0 available
Rosebud

50% Merino

35% Tussah Silk

15% Baby Camel Down

100% Scrumptious

5 available
These are Abby Batts! Contact me here or through Ravelry....misknits

You may also phone orders to (937)475-3502

2009-09-25T11:44:00.001-04:00

Look what came today!!!! I ordered these at TNNA and totally forgot about them! It was so fun to open this box!

I so lurve this!

This ones mine.....but more are on the way ; )

2009-09-23T11:22:00.000-04:00

Here are some of Abby's Batts that are for sale....from the top center....Lagoon, Blue Steel, Indiana Melon, Tequila Sunrise, Desert Flower.

I'm posting this so there are pictures available for online shoppers! ; )

2009-08-30T11:30:00.000-04:00

You didn't think that was the end did you? We're just getting started!

Line up girls and boys...time for a trim!

I love the harness idea. It works out really well. Less wrestling involved it seems.

This is what they looked like when all was said and done! There were nice heat lamps set up in this area that you can't see in the photo. No animals were harmed during this photo session. It looks more brutal than it is.

2009-08-29T22:35:00.000-04:00

Shearing Day...

It was March 1st 2009.

It was about 7 degrees F.

I have a retired vet that I'm friends with that owns this flock of sheep. Mostly South Down Finns but there are some crosses. The way I understand the story, this man's family was one of the first to bring the South Down Finn to the United States. He's an amazing man and I soak every second I get with him completely up. It was 7 degrees outside..hello.

So when I got there these little jewels had just been born. They were about two minutes old.

All freshly bathed by Mama. Aren't they so sweet. They were so friendly and had SO much energy. They were literally hopping all over.

This was so cute to see. This cat was like little Mother sheep....she tried to curl up with the lambs over and over....and this one let her.

2009-08-13T14:08:00.000-04:00

Next for me to review from Sock Summit....Luscious Silk from BMFA. Thraven colorway. I'm going to knit Socktopus's shawl she just designed! It is gorgeous! I can't knit everything I want right now. I wish I could spin and knit at the same time. Here's a lil peek in the shop. I'm actually standing outside taking this pic. More shop pics to come.

So the lovelies from Crown Mountain Fiber....one has turned into this....a lovely three ply. I'm thinking fingerless mitts. Love (1)

2009-08-11T01:05:00.001-04:00

So here I am...finally....again. I have horrible blogging habits. I'm sorry.

I've been thinking about what I'm going to do to be different from what I normally do after an event. So I'm thinking I'm only going to drizzle out bits at a time.

I would like to review the yarns as I knit with them. Most are new for me! Photo one is Crown Mountain Farms Sock Hop. This is an absolute delight. A sock just magically flew off my needles. I could hardly lay it down. It's a superwash merino that is handspun. Just lovely. Photo two is Crown Mountain Farms fiber. We got a chance to chat with Klaus, the dyer, and we fell in love with his goodies! Big accident in that booth. The biggest actually. I wanted one of every color. It was tough. Go check them out!

The best part of any of these trips is getting to see "your peeps". People who think the same way, have the same love of your craft, people who "get you", and love that you're wearing your Queen of Beads with patent red leather shoes with your pants rolled up for all the world to see, people that tell you to just go ahead and buy it, seriously, because it may like become extinct or something, people that you can be your true self with. That is what I love the most about these trips.

I love that we never stop going from the time we get together. I love laughing pretty much every second. I love that we find humor in just about anything. I love every single second of every day. I feel so lucky to have been part of such an amazing event. I feel really blessed to have spent the time with the amazing teachers that I had in my classes. I don't think my feet have hardly touched the ground since I left Judith's room. My love for spinning has been set fire. What an amazing woman. I wish I could spend days with her.

Photo three...Socktopus...my BFF. Here for Sock Summit from clear across the pond. I just love that. Any time spent with her is guaranteed fun. See?

2009-07-14T18:21:00.000-04:00

I said goodbye to a dear old friend today. I lost Boy to malignant lymphoma at age 7. He was a huge part of our family. His lil buddy Gypsy will be lost.

I think my heart may truly break.

Goodbye Boy.

2009-04-22T00:27:00.000-04:00

I'm still working on the Lacy Prairie Shawl...but I've been sidetracked.

I knit it out of Green Mountain Spinnery, Yarn Over. A nice yarn for being bulky. Rather traditional in feel and color. I see a pattern.

If you look closely at the above photo you will see a row of stockinette down the middle of the sweater. Oh yeah. I'm cutting this one....right down the middle.

Now this is a first for me.

I was a little apprehensive in the beginning.

But I surely am not the first.

This is a well known, functional, easier way.

I'm all for that.

I brought out the old trusty for a little reinforcement.

That's a good idea. Once I was this far into it. I was just rolling with it. No turning back.

This is what I ended up with. I'm very pleased. It really felt good to just cut right down the middle.

It still needs it's buttons sewn on and a zipper. I'm also going to try the taping in of the zipper before sewing. Thanks to Samro!

I like the fit. I made it a bit longer. I wouldn't do the decrease/increase exactly the same if I did it again. I think I would try to keep them less obvious. Or just not do them. I think I'll wear this alot. Yay!

2009-04-13T22:53:00.000-04:00

I love that someone put this much thought into a gift for me. A knitter of course covering all bases....

a bag

a book

a beverage

a few of my favorite things.

All about me.

Love that.

Thanks J.

This is how I've spent the last two nights. Lacey Prairie Shawl in Fleece Artist CamelSpin 70%Silk 30%Camel. 100% Delightful. Now if only I could pry my nose from the book.....

2009-04-10T16:31:00.000-04:00

I can't even say anything to describe Cat...or about quality time with Cat. I'm so fortunate.
Marisol prays to the yarn.....
Moss to match new Moss Mary Poppins bag....thanks Churchmouse!
For the love of all things Crabby....IrishGirlie does this sock belong to you???

I'm still missing camp.

I wish everyday could be camp.

I really do have a 12 year old mind.....

2009-04-09T13:37:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of the setting. It was lovely.

This is the starfish I could see from my balcony. He stayed all week.

I'm going to be a good blogger. I must get in the habit.

I love getting comments too....so that's making it easier!

I'm working on Cat's socks from camp right now.

I'm thinking I'll cast on another Shawl that Jazz....

I also want to start Charlotte's Web from camp...

Oh if there were more hours in the day.

2009-04-08T11:23:00.001-04:00

Shawl That Jazz......finished. It's all about the Red.

Photos courtesy of Tot.

2009-04-07T21:18:00.000-04:00

So I started Camp Knitty Ha Ha a bit early with scones......
Royal Tea........
with my bestest knittin' buds......

at The Empress in Victoria, Canada!

We visited Beehive wool while there...good for me, not so good for my wallet. We also went to a button shop that had some yarn!

We drank coffee.

We knit.

We laughed.

I miss em'.

2009-02-10T11:13:00.000-05:00

Dogwood

Lemming
Don't Drink The Kool/Aid
Laurel Mountain
Leatherwood

2009-02-10T10:43:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I'd like to introduce the first of many.....

Meet Blue Diamond.

My first in a line of naturally plant dyed yarns!

Absolutely to dye for!

Here's my Noro sweater. Designed by Jenny Watson. I live in this.

2009-01-05T17:54:00.000-05:00

Joseph Galler Alpaca yarns....finally have arrived. Are they ever delicious?

2008-12-04T11:25:00.000-05:00

Finally I have some pictures of my spin on the Urban Aran. After many failed attempts to photograph myself wearing the sweater....I tried Samro's mirror method. Here's what I've got!

I enjoyed knitting this sweater. I obsessed with it at Rhinebeck and ordered the pattern before I left N.Y.

This will be well loved sweater. I wore it over Thanksgiving and I didn't want to take it off. It's just the "perfect" cardigan.

I knit it with Black Water Abbey, a traditional Irish wool, in the colorway Bracken. In the photos it looks like oatmeal. In real life, it has flecks of color running through it. I love it!

2008-11-05T19:56:00.000-05:00

Here are some shop piccies from knit night!

I love my cozy little shop.

2008-11-02T19:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween! I love her little hand in this picture....I wish that they could stay this small. This must be the most perfect age!

Tinkerbell had a lovely evening!

By the end of the night Tink was wrapped in Alpaca and wearing buffalo mitts! She is really trying to steal my wrap I bought in New York! I can't say that I blame her!

2008-10-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

Here is a little dose of what it looks like where I live. I live in a more rural part of Ohio. This is what I see when I look out the front door.....Blue skies and corn or soybean fields!

I love the bright sun shining through the trees.

The leaves are just starting to turn they are looking really pretty.

I thought it would be fun to watch the leaves turn in this last picture. I will update it next week!

Happy Fall!

2008-10-21T11:10:00.000-04:00

Here is a small sample of my weekend of Rhinebeck for you........

Here is some Blue Moon Fiber Arts lounging in the bay window. This is just Joan's haul!

Here is Joan checking out her goods.

Here is Carole at the Ravelry Party. It was freeezing but a great time. I reallly had fun....imagine that. Thankfully there are no photos of the Stephen scolding.
Here we have Sam dissecting yet another knit garment. Be sure to check out Sam's take on Rhinebeck on Lime and Violet's Daily Chum.

Here is Miss Mali. Taking it easy after a hard days work.
I didn't say you bought too much yarn Joan.....really it's okay! I love the way the sun is shining on her in this picture and the leaves in the background.....isn't it lovely!

The girls, minus Carole doing a little knitting. What fun we had!

I'm sure these two trees will be on all attendees blogs....so here they are again.
This is the view from our house.
This is where we stayed. It was very lovely. I had such a great time. It was so nice to hang out with everyone.....it was really sad to say goodbye. Sock Camp or Sock Summit won't come soon enough. As always, there was a little crossing path thing going on. It still kind of freaks me out. At my gate in Philadelphia I noticed this guy with a handknit sweater laying beside him. I looked a little closer....and guess who it was Stephen! I could not believe it. He's travelling from San Francisco so really what are the odds. That's not all folks. We were on the same flight with seats side by side. Isn't that just bizarre? I was glad to see him, and it made for lots of fun the rest of my flight. I just love crossing paths.

2008-10-12T23:53:00.000-04:00

I'm so stoked! Some of us from Sock Camp are meeting up at Rhinebeck this year! I'm so looking forward to this trip! It seemed like such a long time off when we vowed it at camp.....and here it is. It will surely be a dandy time.

In the above picture we were at Mora Mora on Bainbridge Island in Washington. We had just done a "little" shopping at Churchmouse Yarns & Teas, a delightful little shop I must return to sometime!

I think I heard mention a trip to Morehouse Farms this year! That will be very cool too. It's such a pretty part of N.Y. it will be just lovely this time of year. I can't wait to see you girls! Mwah!

2008-09-02T01:10:00.000-04:00

Last year close to this time, I was preparing for a journey. Very unknowing of where it was going to take me. I looked so forward to this trip.

Shopping in Salzburg.
Gallon sized mugs at Oktoberfest. It was really a challenge to hold these up. It was about 8 o'clock in the morning in this picture. Seriously. You had to get there that early to get a seat. It was about 50 degrees, damp, and raining. I hadn't recovered from the Hopfbrauhaus from the night before. This was an experience all in itself.

Reflecting back on this a year later....I am almost not even sure what to say.

So I'll just say nothing.

2008-09-02T01:06:00.000-04:00

Why am I just now posting about sock camp? Well....these are funny pictures. What is the deal with having neurotic tendencies that made us want to wear or roll in the Blue Moon yarn? Too many fumes or too many martinis? Ummm. Both.

2008-06-20T01:00:00.000-04:00

So the doorbell rings....it's the neighbor girl coming to play with Tot for a bit. Low and behold there are two boxes on my porch from my dear BFF!!!! Socktopus! I met Miss Mali at Camp Kaw Kaw this year. It was very strange and there were all these crossing paths and weird incidences.....but we ended up budsl. She makes me happy I'm a knitter. Happy that i'm blessed with such wonderful people in my life. She also knows how to make me very happy. Hub was present for the unwrapping of the goodies! I paused midway, looked at him and said this must be better than Christmas. Seriously. First we have the edible goods. Chocolates, english biscuits from traditional to organic versions. Ritter Sport bars which I adore! McVities...a must. Tea of course!
Total sock stash enhancement! With the most adorable bag that I was desperate for at camp! ; )
The model today is Charlie the gardener. He's so tired from a long day in the garden that he's decided to prop up on a pot and take a bit of a rest. I love him. I placed him here so that I can look at him when I swing. I love garden whimsy.
This is where Charlie lives. Hub got this swing for me for our 5th anniversary. Or 3rd??? I don't know but I'm thinking it's been longer than two years due to the growth of this bed in the picture. I love sitting here. It looks at another mature bed that I dug by hand with nonpowered tools. Sweat, blood, and ice cold beer. I get a certain feeling of accomplishment when I look at it. It's a lovely place to knit.
I can't get the link to work for Socktopus.....visit her at www.socktopus.co.uk

Thank you Mali! You sure do know how to make a girls day! I can't wait until we go to Rhinebeck!!!!
I miss you so.

2008-06-15T01:18:00.000-04:00

This is a pic of the yarn room prior. Just for those who are curious. The bed was one of the ugly wrought iron ones from the 90's that realllllly needed to go. When we moved in I made it a room with a bed and stuff I didn't know what else to do with. Then I started knitting and these mysterious piles crept up mixed with sewing machines and fabrics and dollies apparently.

Which eventually led to this........................

With good company.

And ended like this. No! Thank you very much. That's not me half cocked.....but I do know that person. Is that a yarn ball stuffed down in that boot?
This is what happens at A Taste of Wine. ; )

2008-05-27T03:45:00.000-04:00

So here are some long awaited photos and a post......finally!

The yarn room is DONE! What a task it turned out to be. I'm very good for letting projects escalate until I may be in over my head a bit. Hub saved the day with the cubbies. Though they are quite simple to put together. I am so in love with this room. Sometimes I just walk in and stand and look around a minute, then leave. I love it. It's like a sanctuary.
Another shot of the cubbies and small bookcase. This houses actual reading books. Not knitting books.

My nice new Ikea bed for guests who are worthy. The chair is a Poang from Ikea. It looks out into one of my flower gardens. More pics coming. And a little chatter as well.

2008-04-10T01:16:00.000-04:00

So at last I can breathe....a bit. I'm going to Blue Moon's Camp Crow's Feet. We were assigned to knit a toilet paper roll cover. Kitschy? Yes. Fun? Yes! I just rolled with it and it has been a blast. Those who know me well, know that I'm probably not finished. And I'm not. The major things are done though. The rest can pretty much be done on the fly if necessary. I can't wait to share it with all of you! No patterns. No guidelines.
Raspy needs one arm and the sleeve seam sewn and she's all finished ready to travel. I tried it on. I love it. I'm pondering casting on another in a different colorway. Maybe a different yarn. I think I adore this sweater. I'm also thinking about a couple of other denim sweaters. Tot's starting to pick out her own yarns for me to knit. I love it! She demands I do it. Hmmmm. Another year and she can start knitting? I so hope she does.
My dear husband turned 40. That makes me feel a bit more.....mature. Strange. I forget how old I am all the time until I'm reminded. Like my hub turning 40.

2008-04-08T01:53:00.000-04:00

From turkey to tulips.......well here I am....I'm baaaaccccckkkk! I somehow got consumed with Ravelry, my new timesuck, and disappeard from the blogosphere. I love Ravelry.
Tot is growing like a weed. She's getting so much independence these days. Ahhh what a wonderful thing it is.
I've been knitting. Constantly.
I need to post pics here and on Ravelry.
I'm going to Blue Moon's Camp Crow's Feet this year. I leave this Saturday. Can Not Wait!!! We have to knit a toilet paper roll cover from scraps of yarn sent to all campers by Blue Moon. I've had so much fun with this. More than I thought I would. Ohh the freedom of no pattern. I almost can't believe I'm really going. I feel like I might not breathe until I'm in Seattle. Prior to camp, a few of us Ravelers whom I've never met, are going on a yarn crawl the two days before camp. We're going to shop the Seattle shops and then hit Bainbridge and the San Juan Islands. I'm almost afraid to go. I feel like I'll want to move there. I will savor every moment.
I will stop about that. I know you might like to tell me to stop already.
Something else I'm quite excited about is a class that will be coming up in June. Beth Brown-Reinsel will be coming to teach her Traditional Gansey Workshop the weekend of June 21st and 22nd. Beth, in my opinion, is like a charming old soul. I just adore her. Her knitting talent is phenomenal and she is an excellent educator. Those of you who are attending I assure you that you won't be disappointed. I've wanted to take this workshop with Beth for a long time. I'm also happy to be able to share her with all of you.
I will also be hosting Antje Gillingham, the author of Knitting Circles Around Socks the weekend of May 30th and 31st. Unfortunately all spots for this class are taken. Antje comes from Germany, she owns a shop where she lives now in Tennessee. I've yet to meet Antje in person, but she is delightful to speak with on the phone! I'm really looking forward to meeting her! This should be a weekend to remember.
; )
It's good to be back.

2007-11-22T01:44:00.000-05:00

Again...it's been a while. I just can't seem to find a minute to sit still these days. Tot had a birthday celebration. In my world birthday celebrations last a while.
Tonight I have been baking like a mad woman. On my side of the family, we all take turns hosting holidays. This year it is at my Mom's. I'm bringing a layered Upside Down Pineapple Cake with a butttercream icing and pecans and....are you ready....seriously I believe this might be to die for.....a Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake with a yummy little ganache topped off with quartered Reese Cups. Yum. Hello ten pounds.
So as you can see I have been a busy girl.
I have been knitting. I've made Juliet out of Rowan Cocoon, 1 fingerless glove out of the new O-wool classic that just came in. So cute. The wool is delightful. Socks for Tot and my poor husband who has begged. Now he has some. It's not that I didn't want to knit for him, I just know that now I will be knitting more for him. He will want lots and lots. I held out as long as I could. I have a Jaywalker going out of Blue Moon in Gingerbread Dude. I'm in love with this colorway. It looks just gingerbread colors to me. I want more. My first pair of Jaywalkers. What's up with that. Does it always feel all tight and tense? I'm feeling like the size 1 needles are maybe a bit small, but I'm too far in at this point. Next time a 2 please. I'm trying to knit some necessities for Tot for the winter.....if we ever have one. 68 degrees today, the day before Thanksgiving. Global warming? Al Gore says so. It kind of freaks me out, alot.
We won't go there tonight. It's a bit late. I could ramble. I won't.
I have cornbread in the oven. What time is it?
I still have to make the icing for the cake too.
Yes, cornbread.
I have been trying to post more pics too. No luck. That makes me so crazy. I don't understand why it works sometimes and not others.
Happy Thanksgiving.

2007-10-30T13:56:00.000-04:00

Knit Night will be on Wednesday night at 6:00 p.m. due to the fact that Beggar's Night is on Tuesday. Please join us on Wednesday!

2007-10-29T21:17:00.000-04:00

This is Benediktbeuren, a textile market I visitied while in Munich. Heather and I were seriously pinching each other. We rode the train there so we were a bit limited. But we still cashed in! This was absolutely surreal. I would love to be standing there right now.

We met Claudia. What a pleasurel. Just as sweet as her fabulous yarns. I have a finished pair I'm already sporting around. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this yarn. I love it. What an experience.

2007-10-29T09:53:00.000-04:00

I'm back to stay for a while....this time. No more trips.
Rhinebeck was great. I was there on Saturday bright and early, with Hubby in tow. We went straight in and I directly got in a panic about finding Brooks Farm Yarns. I love, love there yarns. It's very unfortunate that I can't bring these yarns into the shop. They don't do that. So if you want some Brooks Farm love you'll have to visit their website. I seriously had yarn stacked in my arms all the way to my chin. People were cracking up. My husband looked like he was in shock. Two huge bags......all for me. Some roving, some Briar Rose, and some Blue Moon sock yarn are some other things I managed to cram in my bag. My Mom and Tot came later in the day for some festivities too. We had a great time. Pics coming. I always say that, but they really are.
This coming weekend, Nov. 2, 3, and 4. I will be hosting an open house with some other businesses in Germantown. On Saturday Jailhouse Primitives and I have some good old fashioned fun planned for all of you! We will be having horse drawn wagon rides for you to enjoy from 12-3. The rides are free with any purchase from myself or from my neighbor Jailhouse Primitives. You can get a ticket from either of us. So come visit and enjoy a crisp, fall day riding around historical Germantown in a horse drawn wagon! What fun! I will also have some other things to entice you. I will have door prizes each day including Dream In Color sock yarn, Fleece Artist sock yarn, and some Indie dyed sock yarn. All you have to do is show up! There will be some "secret sales" going on as well. I also am newly stocked with Fleece Artist and Dream In Color sock yarns. I have three skeins of every color DIC sock yarn there is. So come in and check it all out. Hot coffee and some tasty snacks will be provided as well. Make sure you don't miss this one!

2007-10-17T10:40:00.000-04:00

Ok. So I'm back. I have been home for a month almost. It seems like days to me still.
Very very strange.
I have been extremely busy. I leave for Rhinebeck Friday in the wee hours of the morning. My whole little family is going. Tot is very excited to go to Vermont. I have no idea why. I will be gone until next weekend. We are traveling from Rhinebeck into New Hampshire and from there on up into new England ending in Maine. Fresh seafood, knitting, and family. Sounds like a good combo. This was originally to be a "long weekend". My husband snowballed it a bit. The shop will be closed for the week. Sorry. : (
Europe.....where to start. I absolutely fell in love with Germany. Ich liebe Deutschland! Ich liebe weisse bier! Pols! Sorry I got sidetracked. It was an amazing trip on so many different levels. I would love to live in Europe. I love the way. It was very comfortable for me. I have some pics I'm going to post and I will give details then. I will tell you though that I went to the Textile Market and I met Claudia from Wollmeise and she is an absolute Dolly. Her yarns are amazing. I think I may have met Yarnissima and not known it. I haven't pinned that one down for sure yet.
I was a bit overwhelmed. I couldn't take it all in fast enough. It was a great time. I didn't let one minute pass me by. Three hours of sleep is plenty. Isn't it? Sorry I have been such a delinquent.

2007-09-21T14:51:00.000-04:00

Ich bin sehr durstig, ja....Ich mochte ein grosse bier bitte!
Auf Wiedersehn!

2007-09-13T10:44:00.000-04:00

The shop will be closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the 15th, 16th, & 17th. Please come visit with us at The Wool Gathering at Young's Dairy Farm in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The hours are from 10-7 Saturday and 10-5 Sunday. There will be lots of goodies for all of those starving for some more fiber. This is really a fiber festival! Come have some fun and hang out with some of the knitters from the shop!
Response to Knit Night at the Ball and Skein has just been remarkable! What an excellent group of knitters! And oh what fun we have! We have more knitters than room! The joke this week was busting down some walls next week. Seriously, something will have to give. No one really seems to mind, we just keep piling on top of each other. It's cozy. I so look forward to Tuesday nights.
I'm real excited about some things that are ordered for the shop. Arriving in the next week the new shipment of Fleece Artist. Hopefully by the end of next week. Coming within the next two weeks is O-Wool. A true organic yarn that is like cream in your hands. Just lovely. Can't wait to get this on the shelf! I believe it could become a permanent resident. This is just lovely. A great worsted weight yarn. Excellent stitch definition.
In the sock department I'm now offering Ewe3 Sock Yarn. This is locally dyed by a friend and fellow knitter. The colors are absolutely delicious. The names are related to her home town. Just think "We Are Marshall!". What fun! You will be able to see this yarn this weekend at the festival......along with the other great sock yarn that is coming to the shop.....Knitted to a "T" by another friend and knitter! The first skeins she brought in for me to look at flew out the door. They were scarfed up as soon as I dropped them in the bowl. Seriously. Snatch. Snatch. Tonia does a great bamboo blend that I adore. Her colors are amazing. You all really need to come check out these brand new yarns! They are great additions to any sock stash.....speaking of sock I have been having my own little personal "Socktoberfest" going on. I have been making socks to take to Germany which happens next Friday. I don't think I'll make the goal of 9, though maybe 5. We'll see. I can't stop doing the Bullion Stitch long enough to think about knitting socks. Did you catch that? I have been doing that hook thing. Thanks alot Dana! I've also been doing the lace thing.. thanks Donna. Ms. Firestarter herself wearing her Forest Canopy around like it's no big deal, stirring up the pot, spreading the lace bug. It's spreading to I got it, now Jenny's got it . Who's next Teresa 1, 2, or 3? Hey Susan, next time you come bring some knitting with you! : )
Oh yes....I must add. Did I tell about the wonderful spell of karma I have going on. So what are the odds....I contact Wollmeise trying to get some yarn. She lets me know that during the time I will be in Munich there is a huge textile market going on. Like on the grounds of the Benedictine Monks. Hello just this fact has me all flipping out. Just messed up. Wollmeise will be there with all her goods! So will everyone else that is anybody. We're talking like several different countries..Belgium, Hungary, Denmark, Austria, just all over Europe will be in this one place for this one day. Which happens to be the Sunday after I arrive. So Sunday morning we will be taking the train to Benediktbeuren for a fabulous day of wool, jewelry, clothes, shoes, bags, fabrics, etc. I absolutely can't wait for that Sunday morning. I'm so excited. I am going to be one happy camper. Can someone pinch me please?

2007-08-31T01:06:00.000-04:00

Dream in Color sock yarn is in the shop, for a moment. Kaffe Fasset's sock yarn is also in from Regia. Every color lovelies.

2007-08-23T12:38:00.000-04:00

The Dream in Color yarn is here. The Tulip Kits are in bags and ready to go home with you. They are adorable and fun to knit. Rowan's Cashmere Tweed showed up this past week. 90% cashmere 10% silk. Do I really need to say anything more? It's amazing. It's also $24.95 a ball. Cashmere just does something to me. It's like a chocolate dipped strawberry.
The Yarn Market was this week. I got to see Miss Z. What a dolly. I can't believe I was ever responsible for something that small. Wow. How time flies. She is amazing and beautiful, Miss Z.
June and I went crazy over the Kaffe Fasset sock yarn from Regia. Guess what! The whole line will be arriving probably next week. Woo hoo.

2007-08-09T03:02:00.000-04:00

A phone call this week announcing the shipment of the almighty "Tulip Sweater". I hope that this isn't like a movie you get all excited for and then....you know. Hmmmm. I can't wait to rip that box open. I'm doing this totally on faith you know. I have never personally held a Tulip or the makings of a Tulip in my hands. I can't wait. Can't wait.
This week another box of tapestry arrived, a box of Kidsilk Haze, Nashua Snowbird in I believe every color, patterns to come.and some other Rowan stuff....Tapestry Collection Pattern Book....Mother and Baby Pattern Book.....and of course the new Rowan Magazine for Fall. I haven't had a chance to totally soak this magazine in all the way, but from what I've seen I'm very excited about it. I'm looking forward to the Cocoon Yarn which will be new this fall from Rowan. I'm drooling over some new Cashmere they are bringing for fall. Oh yes, my lovelies....it's coming to the shop. Another lovely addition that is coming for fall to lucky, lucky us...is Moving Mud. Moving mud is this combination of a couple of the most intriguing people I have ever met. I adore these people and this company. They are the makers of fine glass closures, buttons, and shawl pins. Too die for! I'm so looking forward to this. Can't wait to spread the love to all of you. : )
The shop will be closed the rest of the week, due to some family issues. I do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause anyone. Please remember I am a one man gig at this point. Thanks for your patience and understanding as I learn to run a shop and juggle a family all at the same time. I love what this is slowly becoming. I'm very excited about the fall and about hosting an "official" grand opening. The yarns that are showing up have been ordered for months. Money gone, no yarn. I didn't want to have a grand opening with empty shelves. I want this place busting at the seams. So I have my reasons for the delay.What seems like months to me probably only seems like a short time to you. Anyhow, I will reopen Tuesday at 10:00. Knit night is also on Tuesday starting at 6:00 and ending ???. We have fun. And food. And yummy yarn. Come knit a bit. We're looking to explore some fun new techniques this week. I am so stoked about this. Now I remember why I love knitting so much again. I'm also so into learning this crochet stitch that a new knitter to the shop has done. I have just been spazzing over the possiblilites with this one. Bring your scrap yarn and explore new stitches. Fun!

2007-07-24T11:05:00.000-04:00

Running....Screaming......The Fleece Artist is here..........The sock yarn is here. HELLO!!!! Also some sweater kits, felted hats, thrum mittens, goldilocks shawls, and of course the dear BFL.
What are you waiting for?

2007-07-20T11:40:00.000-04:00

I had a nice suprise visitor in the shop this morning....her name is Jo "Baby" Sharp! She's really pushing fall along with a little nudge. She brought some lovely pattern books with her. You know Jo and I go way back. She's one of my first true loves. I hope you'll come in and meet her. She'll probably want to come home and stay with you awhile. She's like that.

Cruise in tomorrow. The 21st. I will be open all day. Until 9:00 p.m.. Old cars, shopping, knitting, probably some pizza. What more could you want on a Saturday night?

Be here!
Come whenever you want.

2007-07-10T23:41:00.000-04:00

First of all I would like to encourage everyone to stop by Mindy's blog and make a donation in support of her son and the Greater Cincinnati Down's Syndrome Association. There is a link on Mindy's blog where you can access the donation page. It does not matter what amount your donation is. Just donate already. This is for a great cause. Mindy has some great prizes which she will draw winners for in September. My shop will be donating a Tulip Sweater kit.....yes Tonia, A Tulip Sweater kit. If you haven't heard about this phenomenon just go here. These are the adorable little baby sweater that everyone is just going crazy about. These will be arriving in the store anyday now. I will also be carrying the "Smooshy" sock yarn by this company. Along with both patterns they currently offer. To say the least I'm very excited about this. I will be kitting the sweaters up. They will be offered in the original colorway and also in some of my own creations. OHHH so excited! In addition to these items, I'm also waiting for another shipment of Fleece Artist to arrive anytime as well. This will have more Blue Face Leicester Aran weight yarn, Nova sock yarn, and some shawl, sweater, and hat kits. Fun! Fun!
I have been knitting, but not much progress. I can't seem to stay focused long enough. The most I've knit since May has really just been on socks. I do have a cardigan started out of the Green Mountain Spinnery Mountain Mohair. I love working with this yarn. The mohair mixed with the wool gives it such a nice halo.
GO. RUN. DONATE!!!!!!!

2007-06-25T01:01:00.000-04:00

La,La,La,La,La. So I'm completely exhausted, but I'm not. Does that make any sense at all? I don't feel so tired but my body just quits. It's totally refusing to cooperate with the mind. I so hate when that happens.
Things are going splendidly well. Much better than I had anticipated considering I haven't advertised yet. Oh but that's a coming. I'm suprised how many knitters are right here in town. They just crawled right out of the woodwork they did. I knew they would . And there are more of them too. Some who want to turn into knitters. And spinners. What an interest there is in spinning. One wheel has already departed from my clutches. How can that happen in a week? I don't really think I even care how it happened but I'm very glad it did. I love to see the enthusiasm of a new spinner. I can so relate to that love of the wheel the first time it you spin and tho see that in someone else is very cool. This is what makes me want a shop. This is what I love! Sharing it with others is just fabulous. I'm so thankful to everyone who has been helping me during this whole process....you know who you are. I'm also very hopeful for what lies ahead. I don't know about you, but I'm thinking the skies the limit here.

2007-06-19T01:14:00.000-04:00

The Ball and Skein is officially open for business........I will be open Tuesday thru Saturday. The hours as of now are going to be 10-5 until further notice. I'm having my Grand Opening in six weeks and I will be extending my hours on certain days. I'm postponing the Grand Opening due to the fact that there are many things left to do and I'm a one man band here. I appreciate your patience. I would love to stay late this Tuesday night to knit if anyone is interested in coming. Give me a call at the shop!

2007-06-14T19:31:00.000-04:00

A name, oh yeah.....it has a name. It's going to be called the "Ball and Skein" get it???? Old jail.
Hours are not set in stone yet either. They will be in the next few days. I just have to think for a minute before I publish it. As I mentioned, there are still plenty of things I need to do, boxes are arriving just about daily it seems, and there are only 24 hours in a day and one of me. Some things just get pushed aside. I will post the hours soon. I will be there this coming Saturday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. for the "Cruise In".

2007-06-13T01:20:00.000-04:00

Ok...it's like time to let the cat out of the bag, already. I'm opening a shop. A knitting and spinning shop. A really great one that has all things yummy. Naturally. My pics as the best of the best all crammed into one little historical jail cell. I'll be hosting a preview this Saturday evening if anyone would like to attend.....Germantown hosts it's "Cruise In" for old cars this weekend. Live entertainment and all. Certainly not to be missed. I think they might even bring in some greasy hot dog, fair wagon type deal. Come see what I'm offering up....from raw show fleeces to the most delectable yarns. I've got some goodies! More on the way!

The shop address is: 11 North Cherry St.

Germantown, Oh.

45327

(937) 855-3211

The eye candy in the bag is one of many of the bags of Fleece artist rovings and yarns waiting to be put out. The yarn on the shelf in Cascade 220. We must have the staple. Stay tuned for what else is coming..........

2007-06-04T08:11:00.000-04:00

I really did live through Maryland.....I can't believe I had money for gas on the way home, but I did. It was everything I had hoped for. Great fun! I cashed in on the Brooks Farms Yarns like I was instructed to. AHHHH what yarns they have. Yummy! I got a raw Cormo fleece that was seriously to die for. I bought some sock yarn. I bought a picture by Joan Arnold. Her work is amazing. I bought a Wooly Winder. I bought books....I found Alice Starmore's celtic collection. Very happy about that. I had a great time. Got lots of great stuff. I can't wait to go back next year. Hubby and I are going to Rhinebeck this year. So now I have that to look forward to : ). Oh what fun it is!
So it's been like a month since i've posted. Oh what a busy one I have been. Thirty days in the hole......or something like that. Pun intended.
I will come forth with more details very soon.
It's not that I don't want to divulge all the delightful scoop.
I just don't have the strength.
I have been working in my gardens like a mad woman.
I'm OCD like that. I totally obsess on things.
And of course act compulsively.
I'm still talking about the gardens here.....
Anyhow. They are in much better shape. Now to hire a man with a big weedeater. I have lots of yard. No weed eater for the job. And Tot to contend with. I can see that happening. Sure.
We'll see what Mr. Weedeater man offers up. I'm a tightwad these days. I may have to make a trip to the weedeater store and strap on some goggles. Look out, this could be dangerous. I have been known to be very, very dangerous with lawn related equipment. We'll see.
Besides that I know nothing.

2007-05-02T00:25:00.000-04:00

Tot is actually in the basket with the yarn. She is so funny.

The lovely brown yarn you're eyeing is the result of my latest spinnings. It has little threads all woven in through it. The fiber is a wool and alpaca blend. Yummy. This photo is freshly bathed and dried. Do you think my deck needs some attention? That eyesore was only supposed to be temporary.....seven years later. I won't even go there.

In more exciting news. I so cannot stand myself right now. I can think of nothing but Maryland. I absolutely cannot wait! However, I have been cursed with some nasty little sinus/head cold sort of deal. So, I totally feel like crap but I will drudge on. : ) I have a few days to recover before the actual festivities. I have been scouring my knitting books, magazines, everything to help to insure I have a plan. I really get nervous at the thoughts of my aimless wandering self buying everything I see. I need some sort of guidelines for the yarn department. Roving... that is going to be a free for all. I promise to hoard it up in mass amounts. I'm also going to get some raw fleeces to process myself. I'm curious. What can I say? So far my encounters with raw fleece have not been the most pleasant. Oooh yuck. We'll see what happens.

One more day and I am so out of here.

2007-04-27T00:27:00.000-04:00

Finally... a few pictures.
This is Tot's Easter sweater handspun by Moi!
She adores it.

Here is Coopworth. This will be an experiment.
Baby Eye Candy. Don't you just want
to pinch those fat little cheeks. Hairdos
courtesy of Mommy.
I love this Cupie Doll picture.
Just two short years ago..........

Christina, this is for you.
Tot is four months old in this picture. The bostons have adored her from the first meeting. One big happy family here. : )

2007-04-20T01:35:00.000-04:00

I have tried and tried to post pictures. Blogger is not cooperating. I'll try again in the morning.
I have some yummy pictures of the Jacob wool Tonia gifted me. It's already spun into a nice little hank. It's delightful to spin. She did a great job preparing it. I must see her technique. It was a joy to spin. I didn't have to do anything to it. Not even predraft really. Thanks Tonia. I really enjoyed it. What a thoughtful gift : ) I love gifts from knitters. They're always so useful.
Pictures soon I hope.

2007-04-16T01:34:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to me. What fun I've had. I think any birthday that leaves you smiling is always a good one. Not all have left me smiling you know.....I spent time with the ones dear to me, I ate lots of cake and ice cream and basically crap all weekend. Mmmm hot fudge. I love hot fudge. I got singing telegrams from little people. I got phone calls from knitters. I shopped. I knit. I saw Clifford the Big Red Dog. I chatted with hubby into the wee hours of the night. I just really enjoyed the day. Thanks to those who made it so nice! : )
I really need to get some issues fixed with pics on my computer.I promise to get pictures up this week. I still have no camera software. My laptop won't recognize my camera. Makes me crazy. I will travel to get them on a disc. Stay tuned. I must post pictures of my gift from Heather. It has a story behind it, but no time for all of that. Anyway, she got me these nesting chickens from Russia. They're handpainted little guys from a rooster, hen, egg, to a chick. They are so cute. I just love them. She also got me some travel bags to compress my "crap" so she would say for our trip to Europe. I must have a ticker for that.....Heather is a human ticker. She tells me daily how much longer we have. She's also hoarding things that are "just for Europe". Like clothing, shoes, purse. Just stuff. I must admit to some of this behavior myself. More in my knitting world though. She had to get me something that she considered practical, that's just Heather. All this talk makes me think about how many times in my life how the anticipation of something can be more exciting than the actual event. I dread for some things to come because I just want to keep looking forward to it. That makes me laugh.
It's late.
I have a date with Tivo.
Knit night's tomorrow.
Count me in.

2007-04-13T00:03:00.000-04:00

I'm back. How could you be so lucky to hear from me twice in one day. Hmm. Well I'm over the clog ordeal. Momentarily anyway. I will deal with that later. I will learn to follow my intuition.
I'm going to do something I would normally not do. I'm going to rag on a local yarn shop. Hopefully I can do this with some tact. Let me also tell you that this has no involvement with MY trusty lys, Lambikin's. This is just an example of what may happen to you when you travel outside of your circle....
On a mission. I went in search for some yarn, for the stinking clogs. I founds some, not enough, but some that would do. On my arrival to this yarn shop I found a locked door. This is curious. Then I see someone walking around. I have Tot in tow and a time limit. I knock. I get a stupid look. "She" unlocks the door. I now notice that "She" is barefoot. Divorce Court is blaring on the Tv. "She" is stocking crap yarn. "She" is also not being very pushy considering "She" is running a new business. "She" and her stupid T.V. are on my nerves. Hello! Rude! Why am I the one that goes to these freakish places and end up feeling like I'm the freak? There ended up being two barefooted "She's" who were both not so friendly.
I wish them well on their short lived journeys.
That's not very nice is it?
Sorry.
It seems to be in the air.

2007-04-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

So I made my first pair of felted clogs. I enjoyed making them. I ran out of my sole color after the first sole of the second clog. This really annoyed me. I could not find the yarn I originally used anywhere local. So I have an unmatched set of felted clogs to gift. I will send them anyway and promise a replacement. It's not like they are that horrible....they just are to me because I know they are two different yarns, that don't felt the same, look the same etc. etc.
On to a more positive note...I've started swatching on my Nashua Ecologie Cotton. I would like to hoard this yarn in masses. It's so very yummy.
This Sunday is my birthday. I will be spending it with Clifford the Big Red Dog. Isn't that so exciting? I think Hubby and I are doing date night on Saturday. I see a Wooly Winder in my very near future. No big hoopla going on though.
I'm off to knit. So lazy with this weather. I'm ready for some sunshine again. Where is spring?

2007-04-09T00:28:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter to Everyone! What fun we've had around here. Tot was coloring herself along with the eggs! I so love the innocence of childhood. This must be the best age. Her excitement for life is intoxicating. Oh how I could ramble on.....
I visited Koenig Farm and Spinnery this week. This was such a treat for me. I've never been to a spinnery. I want one! Imagine that. I want everything wooly. Mark and Kathy were just charming. Mark immediately took Heather and I out into the pasture with the kids,I mean children, to feed the goats. Tot wanted a goat. She thought they were sheep. She's yelling baa baa the whole time. Just a funny girl, she was. After that Mark showed us how the spinnery operates, every detail. Kathy showed us the spinning machine and where she does her dying. Their yarns are just gorgeous. I love the wool and mohair blend. I had to scarf up some of that, and some roving, and some cotton. Yummy! Not to mention, definately stash enhancement materials. Definate bonus stop on our roadtrip to the lake! The Koenig's were simply charming. I will visit them again for sure. What fun!
So the count down to Sheep and Wool is on 29 days and I'm so counting. I'm so looking forward to this. I feel like Charlie going to the chocolate factory. Seriously. I've got a golden ticket. Maybe I'm more like Veruka or whatever her name was....blueberry girl. I'm going with my Mom and her two sisters one is an avid knitter, my Mom is a part timer, she's never been really bitten by the knitting thing. Can you imagine? They are all so much fun. We are taking Tot so that will make it even more fun.
I finished Tot's sweater in time for Easter, last night. She's so very proud of it. That makes me want to knit even more for her. I think it's so cute on her. Perfect fit. I must make another.
I'm getting ready to start some felted clogs. I had hoped to at the lake but the sweater took longer than I thought it would. I'm almost done with my summer tweed but I haven't knit on it in a couple of weeks. The Dale's are still looming over my head, and I have about 20 other things I want to knit, at least. I think I'll start my Nashua ecologie cotton next. I'm in love with that yarn.
Is there anybody out there in my sad little blogworld? Besides Tonia??? No offense to you, pumpkin. And She Knits blogged about how people blog and no one ever comments and how they must be the biggest losers or something to that extent. So Hello...... is there anybody out there? Can I please get some love here. Thank you very much. Have a great flippin day.

2007-03-28T12:59:00.000-04:00

Spinning out of control......in more ways than one these days.
Ahh yes I have my laptop back. Life is good. New parts will hopefully give it a new happy life.
I have been gone so long I have lots to talk about. In knitting news Arwen is completely done. I ordered the Bohus from Solveig in Sweden. I received it. It's wonderful. Unfortunately it is not in line right now. Other things are calling. I'm currently working on a basic long sleeve pullover with Rowan Summer Tweed. It is a very boring knit but a very practical garment. So I will knit on. I have two Dale of Norway sweaters on the needles. One is St. Moritz for Hubby, the other is Nansen for myself. I'm swatching for a summer top made out of Blue Moon's Bamboo yarn. It is to die for. It will feel like nakedness when I wear it. I love a fabric like that. I'm also trying to get a sweater started for Lexi that will be complete by Easter Sunday..... which leads me to..... I bought a spinning wheel. Many thanks to Christina. I sincerely mean that. I can't believe how much I love to spin! I have had a hard time dividing my time between knitting and spinning. So I'm spinning the yarn for Lexi's sweater. After tonight I should have enough spun to complete the sweater. I have also spun some muskox which I believe is to die for.
I have many photos to share but I have to get my camera software running again. I will share soon.
It's great to be back. ; )

2007-02-28T18:48:00.000-05:00

My computer has recovered.....I think.
I will do my best to update everyone tonight when the tot is fast asleep.
I have no time for that at the moment.
I am existing in the world again. Yaaayyyy!

2007-02-08T01:10:00.000-05:00

Little Miss Harlot needs to lay off with the evil temptations she's been tossing around like it's nothing. I have really had it with all this Bohus business.......
I'm totally consumed. I can barely keep from calling Solveig right now! I must have the Bohus. I think this would be a wonderful addition to the stash at the moment. You can check it out here
I love the pink and red combo, you can link to the Bohus Museum through the Yarn Harlot. Would Jackie not be so all over this? She will want a Bohus too. Anyone else been bitten by the Bohus Bug?

2007-01-31T12:25:00.000-05:00

I believe it's been established that I have the attention span of a gnat. For those of you who need further proof I give you the above exhibits. Can you spot the scene of the crime?
My first solution was to put a lifeline on both sides of offender, cut, and kitchener back together. Quick? Yes. Easy? Yes. Dangerous? Very. Very. Christina, who I can't seem to link. suggested I probably should step away from the scissors. We all know what happens next. Back to the frog pond. Rippit!
The picture of the brighter green is most true to color. The one full size picture if prior to taking it out, the others are of after. Even the ripping process was painless. I must learn to pay closer attention. This has been very fun to knit so far. Why do cables make knitting zip along so quickly?
Isn't Arwen going to be pretty?

2007-01-28T02:21:00.000-05:00

Two things I believe one should avoid discussion of...politics and religion. However,
if I did talk I would have a whole lot to say about politics...
I'm very interested in the potential canidates.
I openly disagree with the war. I will say that. I think it is time to just send them all home. Before none are left.
I digress.
One Mermaloose done.
One Fleece Artist sock almost done.
I can't decide what's next.

2007-01-26T01:32:00.000-05:00

Done.
That was a challenge....though I'm not really sure why. My fellow knitsters may have some enlightening reasons why though!
It seems every time I encounter these little obstacles in knitting that I'm generally the problem. I guess the only benefit is that I have learned some valuable lessons.
I really like this sweater. I love (cannot stress this enough) the Chunky Malabrigo! It's a dream I tell you. I could totally hoard this in mass quanities. I will be stalking the UPS man to get the next delivery from the LYS. Total crack yarn.
In honor of all things Blue Moon....I'm working on my Mermaloose Mittens. I am an official Rockin' Sock Club Member. Woo hoo! I've got little packages coming for the rest of the year! :p Won't that just be so much fun! I believe if I read things right that EVERYONE will get a place this year. Even if you're on the waiting list, you're still in. That's the way I understood it anyway. So you can still get your Rockin' Socks through the end of January. Go! What are you waiting for?

2007-01-20T00:55:00.001-05:00

"What's the difference between acrylic yarns and natural fibers?"
"Excuse me?"
Same question comes at me again.
I sputter like I'm choking on a ball of acrylic.
Do I really need to go there? Lets start with the basics....acrylic = plastic. It was kind of like the explanation I got on my way to Myrtle Beach (the first and last time). I was told it was the KMart of the beaches. At this point in my life the worst beach I had been to was Naples, Fla. which is far, far from dear old Myrtle. In my opinion, Myrtle Beach and acrylic yarn belong together.
I'm a yarn snob. I will shout it from the mountain tops. I will not root for excuses for myself. I will not apologize. I have no other hobbies. If I choose to spend my last nickel on a ball of the purest merino ever spun. I will.
This brings me to the whole beginning of the knitting adventure. It was a beautiful spring day. I met a dear friend at "the market" in Dayton. We were strolling along, minding our own, when it happened. There it was in all it's glory. Hanging for my eyes to spot. Imagine a small, market style, open air market with the sun shining abundantly. A small little booth with a couch, knitting needles, and all the Colinette Yarns I could possibly wrap my mind around. Remember, I didn't know the difference between Red Heart and Cashmere, and up to thus far I had no reason to care. I wanted everything this lady had. ALL OF IT! How much for all ya got? I only bought two skeins. I had no idea what I was going to do with it.
I looked at it for days. I loved it. It was decor.
I had to do something with it.
I bought a "You Can Knit In 10 Minutes" book.
I knit a scarf.
I obsessed with Colinette yarns.
I knit bags.
I knit sweaters.
I loved knitting!
Knitting brought a peace to my life. I'm in my place when I'm knitting.
I have been knitting for almost two years now. Time flies when your having fun.
The moral of the story is......
I guess I'll let you figure that out.
I sure am glad I bought those hanks of yarn that day. : )

2007-01-16T01:05:00.000-05:00

How many times can I frog and reknit.....note to self.....next time when using a pattern translated to the English language, read it at least 25 times before beginning.
I have completely knit the front and back of this sweater, a few times now. I can not stand defeat. I finally have figured it out. That's the only reason I can bring myself to even think of speaking of my misfortunes. I knew 30 cm. into it the first time that it wasn't right. I do this to myself repeatedly. I just keep right on. Like I'm going to wake up and the knitting correction fairies will have made everything sugarcakes. What's up with that? I'm not always knitting impaired, just lately it seems. Maybe the knitting Gods think it is my turn for some kind of lessons or something. I've been good....I swatch, I gauge, I do my math. Why torment me?

2007-01-05T14:10:00.000-05:00

I think I overloaded the whole blogger system or something........I don't know what I was doing wrong but here are some photos in no particular order.

Meet my family. Dear Hubby, my tot, and Gypsy, Boy somehow managed to escape the photo sessions.

Tot is wearing her Christmas attire and in total disbelief of the loot Santa has left glittering in the tree lights. Gypsy accompanies her in hopes that Santa may have left something for her or at least dropped some crumbs from his cookies.

Hubby is knitting in the one photo. He couldn't stand to just watch. The magic rubbed off onto him. Look at him pulling on it and seeing how he's doing. I keep this on the needles for whenever he might feel inspired to give it a try. I will always keep it. He caught on very quickly. He was casting on in about five minutes. I was pretty impressed with his abilities.

Hummingbird Raglan is done, except for weaving in ends. I don't like to weave much either. I just want to be done when the knitting is over. On to the next project please. I believe I'm going to start another Malabrigo Chunky. Donna found a great cable sweater in a Rebecca magazine that begs to be knit in Whale Road colorway. I'm so drawn to classic, you can wear this the rest of your life, designs lately. Donna has great taste for these as well, I copy her yarn or pattern choices often. Thanks Donna : ) ! Christina and I are drawn to the same color palettes, which sometimes can create issues : ) hmm..hmm Noviembre......Tonia and I just squabble over who gets the most of what or who bought what before the other could get to it. : ) Oh what fun it is being addicted to lovely little hanks!

Pictures of Hummingbird and some of my knitting loot coming soon.

I almost forgot to mention the picture of Tot in the lovely crocheted hat. She loves this festive little number. She insists on wearing it when there is sweat dripping off of her head. No, I did not make this. I would like to know who would wear this? This was gifted to me when I worked by a client. I accepted it graciously, thank you very much. So graciously that I receive another in a lovely shade of yellow around Easter. I also kept it for over two years....why? Tot is glad that I did. They are very nice hats, just not quite my style.

2007-01-05T14:07:00.000-05:00

Everytime I try to post with photos it says cannot find server......WHY WHY WHY?

2006-12-28T01:26:00.000-05:00

First of all let me say that I'm glad to finally be blogging. I have been trying to get in after switching to "new blogger". It has not been fun. It seems so slow.
Anyways, on to more important matters...... I had wonderful holidays. Tot was overwhelmed by all the hoopla. She has been a sleepy girl the last few days. What fun she was this year. She is still saying "ho, ho, ho!". Very fun age I tell you. I have some pictures I will post soon.
I have been knitting on my Chunky Malabrigo. It's coming along nicely. I'm not totally into the pattern but I wanted mindless, and mindless it is. I'm not certain what's going to come next. I'm thinking Kate Gilbert's "A coat for Arwyn" or whatever that sweater is called that Kate has in the latest IK. I'm going to use Reynolds Rapture in green. I love that sweater. It will have to be a bit longer. I'm nervous about running out of yarn. I will do it anyway. We have a plan to hunt more if i'm short. Donna kindly gave me her leftovers which are very close to a skein! Thank you Donna. She knit a gorgeous sweater for her daughter with this yarn. I was very smitten by this sweater. I had to knit with this yarn. "Arwyn" is perfect for this.
I'm also eyeing Nora Gaughan's cover sweater on IK. Loving that. So feminine, but bold. Just lovely. I was suprisingly gifted with yarn and yarn related items, gift cards etc. Imagine that.
So I'm looking to see what provokes me that hasn't already. I also want to make that "Irish Hiking Scarf" that Yarn Harlot has just posted. I really like that too. I can totally see myself styling in the Bavarian Alps in a Irish Hiking Scarf. Ich bin gehen zu Deutchland.......or something like that. I'm going to Germany and Austria for Oktoberfest. Ich mochte ein bier, bitte! I do believe I may have been correct with that one : ) I have never been to Europe so I'm quite excited, even though it is nine months away. At the current moment everything I want to knit is to take to Europe.
Pictures of hubby to come......enquiring minds want to know! I'm tossing around posting one he would probably not be real thrilled about. He's knitting....Shhhh.....don't tell anyone.
I hope everyone had a great holiday.

2006-12-15T00:38:00.000-05:00

So it has taken me one week to come around to talking about "the sweaters". They were a hit at the party. I loved wearing Gatsby. Hubby loved his sweater but complained of being hot. He got over it. Everyone then decided to ask for a knit something or other....sorry folks, I only knit for those I really love....alot.
These are pics of Gatsby and Hubby's after a washing.
I have been so busy Christmas with Hubby's family is this weekend. Tot and I have both been deathly ill. Seriously. So bad Tot had her first hospital visit. Not good. Thankfully, we are all well again.
Also in the pics are new chunky Malabrigo. I love everything about it. It's going to be mindless knitting. Holiday knitting. The colorway is Hummingbird. It reminds me of an old bermuda bag I had when I was younger. Does anyone remember those? With the little wooden handles? The bag buttoned and was reversible. Snappy they were!

2006-12-08T01:43:00.000-05:00

I have arrived......in so many ways.
Both sweaters are done. We will be wearing them to the party. I say we'll be wearing the hell out of them at the party. I'm so in love with Gatsby. Hubby's in love with Gatsby. Finally there is some light. The sweaters are done. I'm free.

2006-11-28T00:41:00.000-05:00

Have a nice trip Gatsby. Gatsby is off to my aunt in Michigan for some crochet work! My part is done. Unless I rip the arm seams out for a third time. I really don't know if there will be time for that. I'm glad it is done. It will be in very good hands for it's final touches. Big Thank You's to Christina and my Auntie for all of the help. It's greatly appreciated. I tried it on tonight. I love it! I can't wait to wear it. I think it's so way cool.....and I made it! It means so much more to me than anything I could ever buy. I hope someone says "Where did you get your sweater?" so that I may reply "Oh, you mean MY sweater, THIS one? I made it : )" That is something I really love about knitting. It is such an opportunity to show your work and a part of yourself.
Off to knit sleeves.

2006-11-22T01:02:00.000-05:00

Gatsby front and back completed. I'm extremely happy to make it to this point. I still have time. Everything will be alright. Right?

Happy Birthday to my precious baby girl. Here she is at just over one month. This was Christmas day actually. Isn't she beautiful!

This is a pendant made by Moving Mud. I can't link. I have issues. But do check them out at www.movingmud.com. They are glassblowers from Vermont. A husband and wife. They are great. Very talented. I love there stuff. They made my buttons for Gatsby, which are pictured below. They were truly a pleasure to do business with. I would definately go to them again for glasswork.

Tot in all her birthday glory. She wasn't into it at all.....

I have been so busy lately it seems. I've been neglecting the blog. I will try to post with more knitting material soon. I just don't know how exciting two sets of sleeves can possibly be. I do have some great things cooking up for future knitting though. I plan to start the New year out with a real clackety-clack!
Everyone have a wonderful holiday.
Viva Bien!

2006-11-14T00:35:00.000-05:00

Tonight was Knit Night, of course. We also had a party for Mindy. Part baby shower, part 30th birthday. So Happy Birthday...a little late. Really try to enjoy the time that you have to prepare for your new bundle. Relax and take a minute to soak it all in. It's such a beautiful time.

Hubby's sweater is 60cm. That's it. No photos, no nothing. I'm sick of it. I don't want to look at it, or even talk about it really. This sweater has pained my body. Seriously. It aches. Everything aches.
So, how long do you think it will take to knit the sleeves? Will they go quick? I have visions of a vest looking really nice.

2006-11-11T03:15:00.000-05:00

Here is my progress on the front of Hubby's sweater. Almost 40 cm. arm shaping starts soon! Woo Hoo. There may be a light at the end of the tunnel. I'm ready for some Cashsoft again, my am I ever ready.

2006-11-11T00:03:00.000-05:00

The little cabinet that toppled with the tot. This is it. It's actually two pieces. The top part is what fell over. This could have been just horrible. Somehow, thank God, she ended up away from the crashing chaos. She must have jumped or something???? Jars and veggies came crashing down. It scared me to death. I moved it into the guest bedroom right then......doesn't it look charming! I can just see it bubbling over with yarn! I'm only using it for sock yarn right now. The fullest shelves are Koigu, Lorna's Laces, and Opal. There is also Socks that Rock!, Mountain Colors, Claudia Handpaints, Schaefer Lola, and some of Scout J's sock yarn. Just for you curious natured ones. I think it is hysterical because I don't even have one pair of socks that I've knit. I have given every pair away. How sad for me. I have no time to even knit a pair of socks due to "the sweaters"...........
which leads me to progress.........Hubby's back is done. I cast on at knit night for the front. I'm amazed at the progress I've made this week. I have had a serious knitathon the last couple of nights. It's just been Jo at it's best lately! Moving along nicely. I hope I can keep up the momentum. I'm really wanting to pick up Gatsby, but I hate to break the spell with Hubby's when it is coming along so well. I would like to have one finished right now!!!!!!!!

2006-11-08T15:13:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my Mom and my Aunt!!!!!! I won't tell the age, but they look FABULOUS!!!!!
We got you!
I love you both!

2006-11-06T10:24:00.000-05:00

OOOOH Scary! This is what welcomed me home from knit night last week! Creations of Hubby and the Tot! I loved it!

You mean strangers give you candy? Isn't that a no-no? Oh well! It's fun! Let's get some more!
Happy Halloween, a week late.

2006-11-05T22:47:00.000-05:00

Jackie wore her Cocoon Shrug to Christina's party! It looked great on her. She finished in one month!!! These pictures don't show the colors or the trim she chose very well, it is really pretty!

Mary knits, happily, as always. : ) I love that about Mary.

Lisa shows her Jo Jo off. It's a great color for her, a deep green, so pretty! Jackie has to touch it. Be careful Jackie.....Jo Jo has a way about her.

2006-11-03T02:43:00.000-05:00

Has anyone seen Elmer????? Elmer is the hottest thing going in Hamilton, Ohio! At least he was at Christina's birthday party on Monday night! I loved the extra tight Calvin Klein jeans that fit him just so! I was jealous he wasn't all mine.....o.k. maybe not.

Sara, you should have seen Christina when Elmer arrived. Her face was more pink than the shirt she was wearing. It was hysterical, until he dropped his Calvin's. Thank you Elmer for stopping there. We laughed. We knit. We had great fun!

I'm blogging in the wee hours of the morning. I'm not totally insane. I fell asleep with the tot, so I'm wide awake for some reason????

I have been trying to post pictures since Monday. Blogger is not my friend. I'm going to try to get some more pictures up of "the knitters".

2006-10-31T07:42:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Christina.....it will actually be your birthday when these make it out to Blogland!

Once again....so much food!

I think this is a great picture of Christina! I think she might have had some fun!

Some form of adornment....which of course is necessary.

I think Tonia was doing something to the cake???

2006-10-27T11:41:00.000-04:00

That tape says almost 40 cm. how about that? These pictures do not do this sweater any justice. It is nice. I want to meet Jo Sharp. I will go to Australia to meet Jo. I wonder if she would mind? I must converse with Jo.
Hubby's sweater is just flowing right off the needles, I love constant repeats over and over. I just whip right along. Watching with great admiration as Jo, once again, rolls off my needles. I imagine hubby wearing it and how wonderful it will be. Oh that glorious day!
Never mind my middle finger on my right hand that is dangling. Or the wrists that lies limp.
Jo is coming right along.

Look what I scored....the brand new cookbook from Paula Deen. I love Paula lots too. She is my most favorite place to search for recipes. She knows food. Any kind of food. I'm very excited to nestle in with my new book. I love to read her stories about each recipe. This book has "pearls of wisdom", just little tidbits dashed throughout. I want to meet Paula too. I really don't think she would mind. She would probably cook for me, no we would cook together, and it would be big, huge fun! The yarn in the photo with the book is Mountain Colors new "Twizzle" in "Gold Rush" colorway. It looks great in person with Ms. Paula's shirt. Lots of oranges! Nice fall colors!

Well, I'm off. I have plans to knit to 43 cm. tonight. It is already like 1:30 a.m.
I will so be sorry when my little love says "Up Mommy!" at the crack of daylight. I just can't seem to stop. I'm obsessed. I must knit, knit, knit. I must take ibuprofen so I may continue knitting. Will this phase pass?

2006-10-25T00:16:00.000-04:00

This is Hubby's sweater. It is the Cabled Tweed Sweater. I'm moving right along with it. I want Gatsby and this one done. I don't like pressure knitting. I want these done, the sooner the better. I think time could get away with these two. I don't have any to waste.
I still love Jo Sharp. I love her patterns so much. They are well written. Her styles are very classic. I like that too. Hubby will wear this sweater forever more. It's a great man sweater.

This is Boy...with my most favorite tree blazing in the background.

Look at these colors. Imagine what they look like in person. This is a Japanese Maple. It's variety is called "Waterfalls". This is it's first year in the bed and I must say it is simply stunning. I want yarn the colors of Waterfalls!

So pretty :O

2006-10-20T00:04:00.000-04:00

Here is my Brioche coming along nicely. Thanks to Christina. Somehow she made it click. I've got it now. Look out! It's very fun to do once you get the hang of it. I'm contemplating another if I like the fit. I love the wool so much. It is a constant suprise.

This is my Great Aunt doing a mosaic tray, which was part of our trip. They broke plates and used the pieces to make picture frames, bird houses, trays, and trinket boxes. I opted to knit. Go figure.

This is my Mama.

This was just captured. My aunt who knits, in the sun by a window. : ) This one, she's a wise old owl.
There is nothing quite like quality family time. There were times my knitting was just lying in my lap. It was that kind of family time. The stories were the same ones I've heard a million times, but I always find myself hanging on every word. I love to hear them. I love to ask questions to get them going again. I'm always the one that wants to plan the next gathering before the one we're having even ends. I love my family.

The back of Gatsby is done. Now to do another just like it. Then sleeves. Having the back done is a good feeling. It didn't take to long. The pattern is simple once you get going. I love it still. I love how it feels. This yarn, Rowan Cashsoft, has a great drape and feel to it. It is delightfully soft. It is a great choice for next to your skin. Babies too! I can't wait to see this finished. I hope it is everything I'm expecting it to be.
Hubby has picked out a sweater and hat....all out of Contempory Knitting.....Jo Sharp! This makes me EXTREMELY happy!!! I can let go of my guilt now. He has finally picked something that I can knit and allow him to wear. He still demands a Dale, but will make an exception....this time. I'm glad that he wants to wear something I've made, but that kind of puts the pressure on. These both must be done completely by the end of November. I better go knit now.

2006-10-12T01:29:00.000-04:00

Brioche Smrioche. I have frogged this about five times now. I'm not so much having trouble with the stitch pattern, actually that's not it at all. I have done everything that I know not to do! I've turned it inside out and knitted two rows, I've cast on and knit three inches and discover that ohhh it's twisted. Darn. I have forgotten the ridiculous purl at the end of the row. I have dropped yarn overs. YO I've done it all. I love it still though. My pretty Naturwolle looks like it had an encounter with electricity. Aye Aye Aye! I will master this and I will Brioche all over the place. You'll see.
I'm off to the lake in the morning. No internet. No civilization. Knitting is plentiful. Other knitters will be there. Lots of knitting going on. OOOHH I can't wait. Lots of knitting talk too! A gathering of my family, women only, on my Mom's side. Big fun. Lots of food. Maybe I'll share pics. Of our cabin too. I've neglected it lately. I'm rekindling my love for it. I do love it. I love what it means to me too.
No news from me until Monday. Sorry kids. All of the maybe five of you who read my mindless chatter.

2006-10-07T22:23:00.000-04:00

Don't hate me because my yarn is beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is Naturewolle in colorway "Chicago". Isn't it so much fun? I like to call it Good and Plenty. It reminds me of the box the candies came in. Yucky candies too. :p

Here is what I have planned for "Good and Plenty"......... this is the Bulky Brioche Sweater from last fall Interweave Knits. The pattern calls for this yarn. Christina, at my LYS, has this started in this yarn. It's so fuzzy soft. Love it! Imagine that. My fickle, fickle heart. I believe brioche may beat Malabrigo. We'll see!

Gatsby is coming along, I'm into the lace pattern. I've also discovered why I don't like lace. It is because I have no idea what it is supposed to look like. I have an idea, but I don't know for sure. That drives me crazy. Count, count count! That also drives me crazy. I have to concentrate. I can't just go to town like I usually do when I knit. I must devote every little bit of attention. Strong urges to sling Gatsby into a bag, pick up something mindless. Something new. Something that is fun! I'm trying hard to resist the urges. I can't keep my hands off Naturewolle.

Look at this will ya! This is Dale of Norway's new Norwegian Ski Team sweater for 2007. This is looking great for hubby. I'm playing with the idea. It doesn't look quite as daunting as St. Moritz for some reason. I love the style of this new one too. I think the black would look great on hubby. I may get this started soon.

2006-10-05T01:28:00.000-04:00

Here is my newest love. The Gatsby Girl from this fall's Interweave Knits! I love Gatsby like I loved Jo-Jo. It's a pure, true love. I haven't strayed from her since we started our little romance, but let me tell you the fruits have been tempting.............I have big, big plans for Gatsby. I do hope she serves me honorably! : )

This is my that little bird thingy is a link to my LYS. I can not figure this out right now. Sorry.
Anyhow, for October they are doing a Malabrigo knitalong. Not that you really need an excuse to knit with this. It is great yarn. It has been a while since I've done anything with it. I have it in my stash. Christina found this great pattern. I had the book. I'm totally into cables right now. This sweater is gorgeous. The color of my yarn is perfect for this. How could I possibly NOT do the knitalong? The name of the pattern is The Frost Jacket. It is from Norah Gaughan's Knitting Nature book. Great book as well. I'm going to swatch this weekend. Maybe tomorrow???

Now, back to Gatsby. I love her. Oh you already know that. Well, she's coming along quite nicely. Quickly too. I'm about ten rows from starting the lace pattern on the back. The cables have really made it go alot faster than just plain work. I'm really enjoying doing them. They are fun! The yarn is Rowan Cashsoft. It's very lovely. Machine washable too. That's nice. Even though it will probably never meet the washer. I have a hard time washing handknit socks....a sweater? Nah. I plan on getting this done. I have other things awaiting.

I'm considering crafting a knitted boat at the moment. It has rained so much that my creek is overflowing our little bridge, the water is up on our gazebo, almost into the flowerbed by our house. I haven't seen the water this high in a very long time. Years. We don't live in a flood area, so that doesn't concern me. It just really reeks havoc on the yard and beds. I will take pictures in the morning if it is still bad. Or of the damage. It can really stop raining now.

2006-09-24T23:05:00.000-04:00

The Jo Sharp Ribbed Jacket is DONE!!!!!! Here it lies after seaming and blocking. I don't like finishing very much. I never have enough time all at once to just seam the whole sweater. This is very frustrating to me.

Ooooh sneak peek of a design in Koigu Painter's Palette. This book will be available in December. I loooove this sweater!

Sea silk is in progress. I have made it once through the pattern. I think this will make a great first lace project. It is very simple. What is the deal with Fleece Artist patterns making you slide back and forth? I like the way it works, but I'm annoyed with trying to get the yarn started back at the other end. It got better as I went along. At first the stitches were a bit tight, making it difficult.

I had a very uneventful weekend....sort of. No knitting.... that's a shame.

2006-09-21T23:47:00.000-04:00

More Farewells................

Sara and Molly

Donna, a.k.a. Glenda, the good witch. : )

Tonia, Leslie, and Sara sharing some last moments.

Sara, laughing hysterically.

It never ceases to amaze me how knitters gather. We are all like "the same". We have something in common. Even though it is a small something, it opens doors that may normally remained closed. I always love this about knitting when I see it happening.
We had a great time tonight. I think it was a swell send off.
I think I will elect myself as coordinator of Camp Maui. We must trek to Maui. Hey a Maui Trek Along. Christina, you will fly, and like it.

Sara, I sincerely wish you the best. I hope that you have an easy transition. I know that it must be difficult. All will be well for you, I'm sure. I will miss you very much. Thank you for all your encouragement in my beginnings with knitting. You have been very helpful.

Here is the recipe of "Gooey Butter Cakes" courtesy of Paula Deen

Cake:
1 18.25 oz. box yellow cake mix
1 egg
1 stick butter, melted

Filling:
1 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
2 eggs
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 16 oz. box confectioner's sugar
1 stick butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350`
Lightly frease a 13x9x2 in. pan.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine cake mix, egg, and butter. Mix well. Pat into bottom of cake pan and set aside.
Still using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs and vanilla. Dump in confectioners' sugar and beat well. Reduce speed of mixer and slowly pour in butter. Mix well. Pour filling onto cake mixture and spread evenly. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Check the cooking time. You want the center to be a little gooey so don't bake past that point. Allow to cool before slicing.