Ok, I am giving you fair warning. This post could be filed under the Too Much Information category. So, if you don't want to read any further, I understand.
You can probably tell that I have been a little lackluster in the posting category lately. It's actually a combination of things, including a bit of post-holiday letdown. In addition to that.....
*Things have been a little, shall we say, overwhelming in the extended family situation. Some family members are just plain difficult to deal with sometimes. We will leave it at that in case said person(s) happen to read this blog. Highly unlikely, but not worth the risk.
*In the knitting category, I am a little burned out. After crunching out the Christmas gifts, well, I need a little break. I am waiting til the overwhelming urge to knit like a madwoman hits me again. So far, it hasn't. Sigh..... I feel uninspired and highly unmotivated. All is not lost however, as yarn, books, and browsing still tempt me bunches. I have been filing away all sorts of good knitting ideas for when the urge returns. I wish it would hurry though.....
*Health has also been an issue. Due to a new medication I am taking (which I will be calling the Dr. about very soon), I have been having frequent and annoying headaches. Quite frankly, they are really wearing on me. I am hoping to be off the medication soon, which will probably result in a small outpatient surgery, but hopefully it will alleviate both the headaches and the need for the meds. Enough said.
Sorry if I bored you with way too much info. I hope to be feeling better, getting the knitting urge back, and posting some great stuff again soon. Does anyone have anything really inspiring to share with me? Maybe it will help!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
I love surprises!!!!
One of my favorite parts of Christmas is the surprises. My sis, my Dad and I all chipped in this year to get my mom the best gift!
Do you think she will like it?
Is she not the cutest? We picked her up this afternoon and the party is tomorrow. I am almost bursting with the anticipation!
We love her already! She really likes Parker too. She is the sweetest little thing ever! Ooooh, I can't wait til tomorrow!
Do you think she will like it?
Is she not the cutest? We picked her up this afternoon and the party is tomorrow. I am almost bursting with the anticipation!
We love her already! She really likes Parker too. She is the sweetest little thing ever! Ooooh, I can't wait til tomorrow!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Ready to wrap!
Well, I have some gifts finished. Now I just need to wrap them.
I put the button on my niece's purse and felted the slippers. I am sure she will really like them. Aren't they just super cute!?
I also felted the slippers for my mom and her friend. I actually like the ones with the pink stripe better. The contrast is better between colors. Lesson learned. But I know my mom won't care, and if she doesn't like them, I will just make her another pair.
Now I just need to felt two more pairs and I am done with the Christmas knitting. Next year I am definitely starting earlier. I had hoped to get a pair for each of my girls done too, but I don't think I will keep trying. I will just make them after the holidays.
Next year I think I will vary my gifts a little bit more too, so I don't have slipper burn-out! They have been a really great project to take along to volleyball games though. DD Al is playing, and it has been fun getting some gifts done while watching. Yay for multi-tasking.
How about all of you? Got all your holiday knitting done?
I put the button on my niece's purse and felted the slippers. I am sure she will really like them. Aren't they just super cute!?
I also felted the slippers for my mom and her friend. I actually like the ones with the pink stripe better. The contrast is better between colors. Lesson learned. But I know my mom won't care, and if she doesn't like them, I will just make her another pair.
Now I just need to felt two more pairs and I am done with the Christmas knitting. Next year I am definitely starting earlier. I had hoped to get a pair for each of my girls done too, but I don't think I will keep trying. I will just make them after the holidays.
Next year I think I will vary my gifts a little bit more too, so I don't have slipper burn-out! They have been a really great project to take along to volleyball games though. DD Al is playing, and it has been fun getting some gifts done while watching. Yay for multi-tasking.
How about all of you? Got all your holiday knitting done?
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Christmas Fun!
A Christmas meme (found various places in blogland)
I had so much fun reading the answers to these questions on other blogs, I hope more people do it!
1. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Um, he is the big kahuna, he has his elves do it.
2. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Well I prefer white lights, but I like the colored ones if they are tastefully done. My pet peeve is when people have all sorts of mismatched lights randomly scattered around their trees and yard. I especially hate it when all the lights on a tree match except for one strand. Gah!
3. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
Well that is hard, because I am a huge holiday baker. I can't pick just one either, because my favorite food besides sweets during the holidays, is appetizers. I just love them! Meatballs, shrimp, those little bacon-wrapped water chestnuts, cheese balls, you name it, I probably like it!
4. What is your favorite Holiday memory as a child?
That would be opening up my Ballerina Barbie. She was just so beautiful with her little gold crown and her fluffly white tutu with gold trim. I just loved her. (just a little bit more than my Baby Alive)
5. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Actually this depends on the year at our house. We schedule our own family gifts around all the other parties, so sometimes yes, sometimes no.
6. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Our tree has all white lights, and ornaments to match my family room. Lots of gold, crystal, and shades of rusty red, and a big gold scrolly star on top.
7. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
I actually like it until the end of January or so. After that it can just go away.
8. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
My favorite would have to be all the goodies I make, especially my grandma's toffee recipe, peanut brittle, and fudge!
9. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
Oh how hard to pick just one. Maybe O Holy Night, I really love that one.
10. Candy canes! yuck or yum?
Eh, I could take them or leave eating them. But they are such a part of Christmas, I would never want them to disappear.
11. Favorite Christmas tradition growing up:
Being together as a family. I loved it when I would get to see my cousins from out of state, being with a really big group, and
12. Breakfast or presents first?
Breakfast. A girl's gotta eat!
I really love Christmas. There is so much meaning behind it, it is such a wonderful season of family togetherness, and it is just so beautiful! The lights, trees, music, parties, food, surprises....I can't even decide what part is my favorite, because I love it all!
I had so much fun reading the answers to these questions on other blogs, I hope more people do it!
1. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Um, he is the big kahuna, he has his elves do it.
2. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Well I prefer white lights, but I like the colored ones if they are tastefully done. My pet peeve is when people have all sorts of mismatched lights randomly scattered around their trees and yard. I especially hate it when all the lights on a tree match except for one strand. Gah!
3. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
Well that is hard, because I am a huge holiday baker. I can't pick just one either, because my favorite food besides sweets during the holidays, is appetizers. I just love them! Meatballs, shrimp, those little bacon-wrapped water chestnuts, cheese balls, you name it, I probably like it!
4. What is your favorite Holiday memory as a child?
That would be opening up my Ballerina Barbie. She was just so beautiful with her little gold crown and her fluffly white tutu with gold trim. I just loved her. (just a little bit more than my Baby Alive)
5. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Actually this depends on the year at our house. We schedule our own family gifts around all the other parties, so sometimes yes, sometimes no.
6. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Our tree has all white lights, and ornaments to match my family room. Lots of gold, crystal, and shades of rusty red, and a big gold scrolly star on top.
7. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
I actually like it until the end of January or so. After that it can just go away.
8. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
My favorite would have to be all the goodies I make, especially my grandma's toffee recipe, peanut brittle, and fudge!
9. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
Oh how hard to pick just one. Maybe O Holy Night, I really love that one.
10. Candy canes! yuck or yum?
Eh, I could take them or leave eating them. But they are such a part of Christmas, I would never want them to disappear.
11. Favorite Christmas tradition growing up:
Being together as a family. I loved it when I would get to see my cousins from out of state, being with a really big group, and
12. Breakfast or presents first?
Breakfast. A girl's gotta eat!
I really love Christmas. There is so much meaning behind it, it is such a wonderful season of family togetherness, and it is just so beautiful! The lights, trees, music, parties, food, surprises....I can't even decide what part is my favorite, because I love it all!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Sneaky knitting
Well, I am have been busy doing my sneaky Christmas knitting. (Hopefully the recipients of these gifts will not read my blog.) Now I am waiting for more wool, so I can finish my last few projects. So far I have 4 pairs of slippers done, and I am hoping to felt some of them this morning.
2 pairs of clogs, and 2 pairs of my thrown together slipper pattern.
I think some of my family and friends will have very toasty feet this winter. I can't wait to see how the stripey ones turn out. I think they're cute already, even though they are HUGE!!!
Well I am off to felt and do some holiday baking. I have at least 20 different cookie, bar, and candy recipes picked out. I just love baking at Christmas time. It is a huge tradition in our family to make tons of goodies. My mom and I have baked together for years. My sister is coming today, and hopefully my mom too. Mom can't eat much of it anymore due to health reasons, but I hope she still comes just to hang out and have fun baking with us. We give some away, take some to parties and eat the rest! Now to decide what to make first!!!! Yumm, I can't wait!
2 pairs of clogs, and 2 pairs of my thrown together slipper pattern.
I think some of my family and friends will have very toasty feet this winter. I can't wait to see how the stripey ones turn out. I think they're cute already, even though they are HUGE!!!
Well I am off to felt and do some holiday baking. I have at least 20 different cookie, bar, and candy recipes picked out. I just love baking at Christmas time. It is a huge tradition in our family to make tons of goodies. My mom and I have baked together for years. My sister is coming today, and hopefully my mom too. Mom can't eat much of it anymore due to health reasons, but I hope she still comes just to hang out and have fun baking with us. We give some away, take some to parties and eat the rest! Now to decide what to make first!!!! Yumm, I can't wait!
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Let it snow!
Well we sure have winter here. It just keeps snowing and snowing and snowing. We did dodge a big storm last night though. Yay! I don't hate snow, but I don't love it either hehe. Last week the kids had a snowday. They loved it, until I made them do this...
You would think I asked them to give up all their worldly possessions. P fought me for about 10 minutes just because he doesn't like sweaters. He wanted a sweatshirt! Well all his sweatshirts have logos and stuff on them, so um, no. Wear the sweater already! I did manage to get a few very nice pics though. This is one of my favorites. I used it to make my Christmas cards. We are supposed to get more snow again tonight. Maybe I will get playing-in-the-snow pics next time!
I have been knitting, but I can't show most of it here. Sneaky Christmas gifts, ya know? Sorry.
You would think I asked them to give up all their worldly possessions. P fought me for about 10 minutes just because he doesn't like sweaters. He wanted a sweatshirt! Well all his sweatshirts have logos and stuff on them, so um, no. Wear the sweater already! I did manage to get a few very nice pics though. This is one of my favorites. I used it to make my Christmas cards. We are supposed to get more snow again tonight. Maybe I will get playing-in-the-snow pics next time!
I have been knitting, but I can't show most of it here. Sneaky Christmas gifts, ya know? Sorry.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Just ducky
This picture just makes me want to say "Quack!". (or possibly don a clown wig)
My good friend JT (currently known as the clog knitting maniac lol) sent me some wonderful clogs to felt. She even made them in my 2 favorite colors! Whoopee! I can't wait to felt them. They came just in time too!
Hehe, here is my old pair. Um, you could say they are well loved! With my gift knitting, I wouldn't have been able to knit myself a pair until after Christmas, but she surprised me with these. Yay, now I won't have to wait! Thanks J!!!!!!!
Oh, remember those wonderful pics from my last post? Well they are but a fading memory....
This is the view out my window this morning. Pretty sure I won't be too hot to knit anytime soon!
My good friend JT (currently known as the clog knitting maniac lol) sent me some wonderful clogs to felt. She even made them in my 2 favorite colors! Whoopee! I can't wait to felt them. They came just in time too!
Hehe, here is my old pair. Um, you could say they are well loved! With my gift knitting, I wouldn't have been able to knit myself a pair until after Christmas, but she surprised me with these. Yay, now I won't have to wait! Thanks J!!!!!!!
Oh, remember those wonderful pics from my last post? Well they are but a fading memory....
This is the view out my window this morning. Pretty sure I won't be too hot to knit anytime soon!
Saturday, December 02, 2006
I'm back!
Well we got back a little ahead of schedule on Thurs. We were able to catch an earlier flight home, which saved us about 2 hours of airport waiting time - YAY! That is always the worst, getting stuck in airports when you just want to go home and smooch on your kids!
We had a really nice time. It was very relaxing, warm, and fun!
That is our ship anchored out a little. We took small tender boats off the ship to this private island in the Bahamas. The sand was so white and soft, just like baby powder. The water was so incredibly blue, and the weather was perfect that day. We just bummed on the beach for a few hours, and it was just wonderful!
I did just a little knitting on the beach, but most of the time, it just felt too hot. It was more fun to watch people and just relax!
The next day we were in Nassau. We took a ferry so we could see the giant Atlantis Hotel. That place is amazing! Huge. Beautiful. Unique. I have truly never seen anything like it. They are actually building another phase of the hotel right now, even though it is already MASSIVE! We saw their beautiful aquariums, the lobbies, casino, and some of the grounds. Those yachts parked outside were HUGE too. The whole place is truly indescribable.
All in all, it was a great trip. I really enjoyed just getting away with my wonderful hubby. :)
We had a really nice time. It was very relaxing, warm, and fun!
That is our ship anchored out a little. We took small tender boats off the ship to this private island in the Bahamas. The sand was so white and soft, just like baby powder. The water was so incredibly blue, and the weather was perfect that day. We just bummed on the beach for a few hours, and it was just wonderful!
I did just a little knitting on the beach, but most of the time, it just felt too hot. It was more fun to watch people and just relax!
The next day we were in Nassau. We took a ferry so we could see the giant Atlantis Hotel. That place is amazing! Huge. Beautiful. Unique. I have truly never seen anything like it. They are actually building another phase of the hotel right now, even though it is already MASSIVE! We saw their beautiful aquariums, the lobbies, casino, and some of the grounds. Those yachts parked outside were HUGE too. The whole place is truly indescribable.
All in all, it was a great trip. I really enjoyed just getting away with my wonderful hubby. :)
Friday, November 24, 2006
Sailing away.....
Yupp, that's me. Tomorrow morning we are leaving very early for a short cruise. Steve and I celebrated our 20th anniversary this week, yay, so now we are taking off for a little rest and relaxation. Bahamas and Grand Turk here we come!
I have a lot of knitting packed, so I don't get bored on the plane or at the airport. I started a pair of felted clogs (Fiber Trends pattern) for my sister. I have yarn along for a pair for my mom too. I thought they would be nice Christmas presents. I am also bringing the pink Trekking socks, and yarn for another pair, just in case. Wow not too ambitious am I?
Sorry I didn't get a chance to update more this week. I was catching up from musical, Thanksgiving was in there, and I spent the rest of the time doing laundry and packing. I promise I will be more faithful posting (and commenting on your blogs) when I get back. Have a great weekend everyone! I'll be back sometime on Thursday.
I have a lot of knitting packed, so I don't get bored on the plane or at the airport. I started a pair of felted clogs (Fiber Trends pattern) for my sister. I have yarn along for a pair for my mom too. I thought they would be nice Christmas presents. I am also bringing the pink Trekking socks, and yarn for another pair, just in case. Wow not too ambitious am I?
Sorry I didn't get a chance to update more this week. I was catching up from musical, Thanksgiving was in there, and I spent the rest of the time doing laundry and packing. I promise I will be more faithful posting (and commenting on your blogs) when I get back. Have a great weekend everyone! I'll be back sometime on Thursday.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Hard for a talker to do!
One
Word
Meme
No
Exceptions
and
No
Cheating
(stolen from Jenn)
1. Yourself: Silly
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend (spouse): Sweet
3. Your hair: Fine
4. Your mother: Loving
5. Your Father: Special
6. Your Favorite Item: Yarn
7. Your dream last night: Forgotten
8. Your Favorite drink: Diet Coke
9. Your Dream Car: Pilot
10. The room you are in: Office
11. Your Ex: Non-existent
12. Your fear: Heights
13. What you want to be in 10 years? Alive?
14. Who you hung out with last night? Family
15. What You're Not: Boring
16. Muffins: Poppyseed
17. One of Your Wish List Items: Laptop
18. Time: 9ish
19. The Last Thing You Did: Walked
20. What You Are Wearing: Jeans
21. Your Favorite Weather: Sunny
22. Your Favorite Book: Bible
23. The Last Thing You Ate: Cornbread
24. Your Life: Content
25. Your Mood: Happy
26. Your best friend: Sis
27. What are you thinking about right now? Tomorrow
28. Your car: Honda
29. What are you doing at the moment? Sipping
30. Your summer: Short
31. Your relationship status: Married
32. What is on your TV? House
33. What is the weather like? Cold
34. When is the last time you laughed? Tonight
35. Who do you tag? Anyone
P.S. I made a pair of slippers for my nephew. Today my sis tells me that all of a sudden his feet are huge. Crap. I may have to rip out the toes and lengthen them before felting.
Sorry, I will try to have a better post later this week. I am still doing laundry from the musical. I am also preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday. (thank goodness I don't have to do the turkey!) I need to pack too! We leave for vacation on Sat. Yikes, will the busyness never end?!
Word
Meme
No
Exceptions
and
No
Cheating
(stolen from Jenn)
1. Yourself: Silly
2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend (spouse): Sweet
3. Your hair: Fine
4. Your mother: Loving
5. Your Father: Special
6. Your Favorite Item: Yarn
7. Your dream last night: Forgotten
8. Your Favorite drink: Diet Coke
9. Your Dream Car: Pilot
10. The room you are in: Office
11. Your Ex: Non-existent
12. Your fear: Heights
13. What you want to be in 10 years? Alive?
14. Who you hung out with last night? Family
15. What You're Not: Boring
16. Muffins: Poppyseed
17. One of Your Wish List Items: Laptop
18. Time: 9ish
19. The Last Thing You Did: Walked
20. What You Are Wearing: Jeans
21. Your Favorite Weather: Sunny
22. Your Favorite Book: Bible
23. The Last Thing You Ate: Cornbread
24. Your Life: Content
25. Your Mood: Happy
26. Your best friend: Sis
27. What are you thinking about right now? Tomorrow
28. Your car: Honda
29. What are you doing at the moment? Sipping
30. Your summer: Short
31. Your relationship status: Married
32. What is on your TV? House
33. What is the weather like? Cold
34. When is the last time you laughed? Tonight
35. Who do you tag? Anyone
P.S. I made a pair of slippers for my nephew. Today my sis tells me that all of a sudden his feet are huge. Crap. I may have to rip out the toes and lengthen them before felting.
Sorry, I will try to have a better post later this week. I am still doing laundry from the musical. I am also preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday. (thank goodness I don't have to do the turkey!) I need to pack too! We leave for vacation on Sat. Yikes, will the busyness never end?!
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Oh What FUN!
I went to dress rehearsal last night. It was so much fun. They did so well. I think the costumes turned out wonderfully. For all of you who I promised, here are the pics!!!
That gives a pretty good idea of what the pirates looked like. The pirate king is on the far right. He looks spectacular in his costume. He also did very well on all his parts.
A daughter shot. The one with her arm up is mine. She was singing one of her solos here. She did a good job tonight. Hopefully it will go as well for the rest of the performances!
Another shot of the daughters, with the two of the leads on the left. The one in the center of the trio is L again.
I can't wait to go again tonight. They sound and look awesome. Our school has some major talent I think!
I haven't done a lot of knitting. I started on the next pair of slippers for my nephew. Hopefully I will get them done by the weekend.
That gives a pretty good idea of what the pirates looked like. The pirate king is on the far right. He looks spectacular in his costume. He also did very well on all his parts.
A daughter shot. The one with her arm up is mine. She was singing one of her solos here. She did a good job tonight. Hopefully it will go as well for the rest of the performances!
Another shot of the daughters, with the two of the leads on the left. The one in the center of the trio is L again.
I can't wait to go again tonight. They sound and look awesome. Our school has some major talent I think!
I haven't done a lot of knitting. I started on the next pair of slippers for my nephew. Hopefully I will get them done by the weekend.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Girly Girl and Duh!
I finished knitting some slippers for my neice. She is such a girly girl. She loves frou-frou, glitz, ruffles, well pretty much all things girly. I think she will like these.
I need to felt them yet, but don't they look cute already!
And, hehe, they will match perfectly with the little bag I made for her.
Double cute eh? When I catch up on my laundry I will felt them. Then I just need to sew a little button on the bag, and waalaa, one Christmas present done!
By the way, can ya all wish me some extra brain power? The musical seems to have eaten all of mine. Case in point: I received a note home from P's teacher asking for some corn muffins. Their class is having a Thanksgiving feast on Tues Nov 21. So last night I am thinking at musical....tomorrow is Tues...do I have to do anything tomorrow? Corn muffins popped into my head (the Tues thing is what got me). So I come home and bake corn muffins at 10pm. Yes 10pm. Um, duh, this morning it hits me that they are not due until next week. (Insert entire body blush due to extreme embarassment here.) Yeah, stupid, stupid, stupid! Please, someone out there, fess up that you once did something kind of flaky. At least I didn't send them to school......then I would have received the queen of stupid award. Grrrr!
Duh. Yupp, just duh.
P.S. I hope nobody snorted coffee out of their nose, while laughing at me.
I need to felt them yet, but don't they look cute already!
And, hehe, they will match perfectly with the little bag I made for her.
Double cute eh? When I catch up on my laundry I will felt them. Then I just need to sew a little button on the bag, and waalaa, one Christmas present done!
By the way, can ya all wish me some extra brain power? The musical seems to have eaten all of mine. Case in point: I received a note home from P's teacher asking for some corn muffins. Their class is having a Thanksgiving feast on Tues Nov 21. So last night I am thinking at musical....tomorrow is Tues...do I have to do anything tomorrow? Corn muffins popped into my head (the Tues thing is what got me). So I come home and bake corn muffins at 10pm. Yes 10pm. Um, duh, this morning it hits me that they are not due until next week. (Insert entire body blush due to extreme embarassment here.) Yeah, stupid, stupid, stupid! Please, someone out there, fess up that you once did something kind of flaky. At least I didn't send them to school......then I would have received the queen of stupid award. Grrrr!
Duh. Yupp, just duh.
P.S. I hope nobody snorted coffee out of their nose, while laughing at me.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
A breather....
Today I am taking a breather from musical stuff. I was literally busy all day and all night every day this week with costumes. We had a minor crisis with the lead's dress, but it is fixed now and looks much better! We still have a few last minute things to do next week, but today and tomorrow I will try not to think about any of it. I need a break! By the way, thanks for all your encouraging comments! (and thanks for not leaving lol)
I have done very little knitting. I am still on the gusset decreases of the pink Trekking sock. I have only been able to sneak in a few rows (sigh). Oh well, only one week to go, and then I will have knitting time again. A few of the projects I won't be able to blog about (secret stuff), but I hope to start my Christmas knitting during Thanksgiving week. I'm getting a little nervous about getting it all done. I want to make about 5 pairs of felted slippers for family members. I know they don't take long, but 5 pairs, yikes! I have that secret stuff to do too. I will have to knit like crazy!
Well I am off to catch up on laundry. I'm sure I will be at it all day. I hope that pile doesn't swallow me alive lol. It is almost bigger than me! (not kidding...really!) I will try to get a few rows of knitting in too!
I have done very little knitting. I am still on the gusset decreases of the pink Trekking sock. I have only been able to sneak in a few rows (sigh). Oh well, only one week to go, and then I will have knitting time again. A few of the projects I won't be able to blog about (secret stuff), but I hope to start my Christmas knitting during Thanksgiving week. I'm getting a little nervous about getting it all done. I want to make about 5 pairs of felted slippers for family members. I know they don't take long, but 5 pairs, yikes! I have that secret stuff to do too. I will have to knit like crazy!
Well I am off to catch up on laundry. I'm sure I will be at it all day. I hope that pile doesn't swallow me alive lol. It is almost bigger than me! (not kidding...really!) I will try to get a few rows of knitting in too!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Only
This is the only thing I have been working on, but oh is it making me happy!
What happy yarn! It's Trekking color #05.
A sock is all I have had time to work on. I sneak in a few rows here and there, and I am making pretty good progress. I started it on the way to dinner Monday night and I am already on the heel flap. It is my on-the-go project.
I am so far behind on everything else. Last night I left for the musical at 3pm and didn't get home until after 8pm. Yikes! My house is a disaster! My laundry pile is multiplying like bunnies, and I have no hope of making a dent in it today...sigh. Later this morning we are fixing dresses, running to borrow some pirate boots from another school, and shopping the thrift stores for a few last minute props. Tonight we will be gone all night to practice again. Last night I fixed at least 5 fancy hats, pinned everything in sight, and so far we have only covered one of the outfits that the cast is wearing. There at least 2 more to go, OH MY!!!!!! (I can do this, I can do this, I can do this!)
I will not think about the fact that I have barely started my Christmas knitting. Oy!
What happy yarn! It's Trekking color #05.A sock is all I have had time to work on. I sneak in a few rows here and there, and I am making pretty good progress. I started it on the way to dinner Monday night and I am already on the heel flap. It is my on-the-go project.
I am so far behind on everything else. Last night I left for the musical at 3pm and didn't get home until after 8pm. Yikes! My house is a disaster! My laundry pile is multiplying like bunnies, and I have no hope of making a dent in it today...sigh. Later this morning we are fixing dresses, running to borrow some pirate boots from another school, and shopping the thrift stores for a few last minute props. Tonight we will be gone all night to practice again. Last night I fixed at least 5 fancy hats, pinned everything in sight, and so far we have only covered one of the outfits that the cast is wearing. There at least 2 more to go, OH MY!!!!!! (I can do this, I can do this, I can do this!)
I will not think about the fact that I have barely started my Christmas knitting. Oy!
Monday, November 06, 2006
A different focus
Because I haven't been working on socks (the toe-ups have still not been mastered lol), my other knitting projects have been growing.
I have been making good progress on the prayer shawl.
I have about 10 inches to go, which shouldn't take too long if I get any decent knitting time. A friend of mine finishes all her prayer shawls with an i-cord edging, and I think I may try it for this one. A nice finished edge would be a nice change from fringe, especially with Homespun yarn. This yarn frays very quickly, and I want this shawl to stay looking nice for a while for my friend. I would feel terrible if it started looking yucky right away. Let's just hope I don't hate knitting i-cord edging as much as I hate making i-cord hehe.
I also made some progress on my Swallowtail shawl. (yeah, I know, we haven't heard about this shawl for ages)
I pinned it out a little, but I think it will look much better when pinned out properly for blocking. I hope to get through this main part of the body soon, so I can move on to the next lace pattern. I wish working with laceweight yarn went faster for me. At least I am smart enough to use lifelines. If I hadn't, this would be a giant pile of frogged yarn. A couple of times I needed to rip out about 4-5 rows because I dropped a stitch and couldn't get it picked back up right. Whew, so thankful I didn't have to start over completely!!!!!!
I picked up this fun little surprise at the grocery store the other day.
I have been making good progress on the prayer shawl.
I have about 10 inches to go, which shouldn't take too long if I get any decent knitting time. A friend of mine finishes all her prayer shawls with an i-cord edging, and I think I may try it for this one. A nice finished edge would be a nice change from fringe, especially with Homespun yarn. This yarn frays very quickly, and I want this shawl to stay looking nice for a while for my friend. I would feel terrible if it started looking yucky right away. Let's just hope I don't hate knitting i-cord edging as much as I hate making i-cord hehe.
I also made some progress on my Swallowtail shawl. (yeah, I know, we haven't heard about this shawl for ages)
I pinned it out a little, but I think it will look much better when pinned out properly for blocking. I hope to get through this main part of the body soon, so I can move on to the next lace pattern. I wish working with laceweight yarn went faster for me. At least I am smart enough to use lifelines. If I hadn't, this would be a giant pile of frogged yarn. A couple of times I needed to rip out about 4-5 rows because I dropped a stitch and couldn't get it picked back up right. Whew, so thankful I didn't have to start over completely!!!!!!
I picked up this fun little surprise at the grocery store the other day.
No, I didn't need it, but I am a sucker for these shiny little booklets. Plus, who could resist those little booties? Awww....
Well wish me luck. I have a lot of costume stuff to do this week for the musical. Performances are next week, so right now we are putting the final finishing touches on all the costumes, making sure everything looks good together, and doing last minute repairs, changes, fittings, etc. Let's just hope nobody rips a sleeve off or something. I have to be at a few rehearsals too, so this week will be very busy! I may have to cast on a sock (cuff down maybe? snort). That way I will have a portable little project to carry along, just in case I can sneak in a few rows here and there. I will try to get some pictures too!
P.S. Thank you blogger for being so fast today, however, I would appreciate it if you wouldn't eat my first draft ever again.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Note to self
Toe-ups are not fun.
Me and the toe-ups......
we are not friends.
We may never become friends.
They don't like me.
I don't like them more.
My precious first skein ever of Koigu has been frogged at least 5 times. I have almost cursed way more times than that. I will only do these again if absolutely necessary. (as in only if it is life and death)
Currently I am trying the turkish cast on. It is going okay. Although if I were knitting a cuff down sock, I would have 1/2 a leg done by now. Just sayin. What do you toe-up people see in this method besides being able to use every bit of yarn? It is so fiddly. More than fiddly. Pain in my butt fiddly.
I am a cuff down girl. Period.
I will not let the toe-ups beat me. I will win. And then I will cackle with glee. And tell myself that they were only for a challenge, I mastered it, so now I don't have to do them again. It will be a lie. The truth is....
so far I just hate them.
Dang how I wish those Sodera knee socks were cuff down. Pout.
Me and the toe-ups......
we are not friends.
We may never become friends.
They don't like me.
I don't like them more.
My precious first skein ever of Koigu has been frogged at least 5 times. I have almost cursed way more times than that. I will only do these again if absolutely necessary. (as in only if it is life and death)
Currently I am trying the turkish cast on. It is going okay. Although if I were knitting a cuff down sock, I would have 1/2 a leg done by now. Just sayin. What do you toe-up people see in this method besides being able to use every bit of yarn? It is so fiddly. More than fiddly. Pain in my butt fiddly.
I am a cuff down girl. Period.
I will not let the toe-ups beat me. I will win. And then I will cackle with glee. And tell myself that they were only for a challenge, I mastered it, so now I don't have to do them again. It will be a lie. The truth is....
so far I just hate them.
Dang how I wish those Sodera knee socks were cuff down. Pout.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Pictures I hope!
Well we will see if Blogger is playing nice today. Nope. Of course not. That would be too much to ask. So I will continue to write this posts in shifts, and pray it actually lets me load all my pics. So far I have tried about 30 times (ok, now updated to at least 50, and 3 pics is all you get today. I have had enough!). I think my eye is twitching now grrr....
Anyhoo.....
The hat I told you about yesterday: (Haha this pic is so gumpy. I will try to get a better one later!)
Very simple. Two little gray stripes. He loves it. That's all that matters!
I am also working on a prayer shawl for a friend of mine. She requested one at Bible study one day, so I am going to surprise her with it.
I am using Homespun yarn (not my favorite by a long shot) because that is what she liked. I am using the standard prayer shawl pattern, nothing fancy. I hope she likes the color I chose for her.
I am also working on some socks out of Cherry Tree Hill sportweight yarn. I am still on the first sock....sigh.
Yeah, normally I would have had these done by now. Why, you ask, am I making like no progress? Because I simply hate hate hate this yarn. I normally love CTH yarn, but this sportweight is a whole different animal. It feels like you are knitting with the cruelest cotton imaginable. My hands kill after just a few minutes with it. It says it is still superwash merino, but you would never know it when knitting with it. I don't know if I can even bear to finish these. Maybe I should save it for a future baby hat and booties or something, just so I don't have to deal with it anymore right now. I do have that knee socks yarn waiting lol. (But I am so chicken to try toe-ups. Can ya all send me some bravery?!!!)
Anyhoo.....
The hat I told you about yesterday: (Haha this pic is so gumpy. I will try to get a better one later!)
Very simple. Two little gray stripes. He loves it. That's all that matters!
I am also working on a prayer shawl for a friend of mine. She requested one at Bible study one day, so I am going to surprise her with it.
I am using Homespun yarn (not my favorite by a long shot) because that is what she liked. I am using the standard prayer shawl pattern, nothing fancy. I hope she likes the color I chose for her.
I am also working on some socks out of Cherry Tree Hill sportweight yarn. I am still on the first sock....sigh.
Yeah, normally I would have had these done by now. Why, you ask, am I making like no progress? Because I simply hate hate hate this yarn. I normally love CTH yarn, but this sportweight is a whole different animal. It feels like you are knitting with the cruelest cotton imaginable. My hands kill after just a few minutes with it. It says it is still superwash merino, but you would never know it when knitting with it. I don't know if I can even bear to finish these. Maybe I should save it for a future baby hat and booties or something, just so I don't have to deal with it anymore right now. I do have that knee socks yarn waiting lol. (But I am so chicken to try toe-ups. Can ya all send me some bravery?!!!)
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Super quickie
Yupp, that's all she wrote today, a super quickie. My camera is missing but luckily I took a pic yesterday that I can show you.
Okay, nevermind! Blogger will not let me upload a pic, grrrr!!!!!! (Anyone else have a love/HATE relationship with Blogger?) When it decides to play nice, I will show you my FO! Maybe by then I can find my camera and show you a couple of WIP's too.
Instead I will attempt to distract you with this (woo hoo!) and this (hmmm..interesting), oooh and one more here (might have to look into that one).
P.S. While browsing for neck warmers yesterday, I decided I don't like the word wimple.
Okay, nevermind! Blogger will not let me upload a pic, grrrr!!!!!! (Anyone else have a love/HATE relationship with Blogger?) When it decides to play nice, I will show you my FO! Maybe by then I can find my camera and show you a couple of WIP's too.
Instead I will attempt to distract you with this (woo hoo!) and this (hmmm..interesting), oooh and one more here (might have to look into that one).
P.S. While browsing for neck warmers yesterday, I decided I don't like the word wimple.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
A little apology... :(
Wow, it has been too long. Sorry I bailed on you guys, (if any of you are still here hehe). I had another busy week, but that is no excuse. I did read other blogs, look at patterns, yarn, books, well yeah, I just didn't blog. Sorry!!
Last time I promised you a pic of a little stash enhancement. (emphasis on little here)
Can you believe it? That's all I bought. 3 skeins of Wildfoote for the Sodera socks, a hank of a luscious brown Bearfoot, and a new size 1 Addi Turbo. I told ya I was a good girl. Did I pick dark colors or what!!! Fall makes me think of heavy sweaters and wool socks, and a lot of my winter clothes are dark colors. Right now I think I have about 3 or 4 chocolate brown sweaters. Yikes, I might be in a color rut? Oh well, I love brown.
Just for fun:
A while back someone was asking for some pics of a favorite corner in your house. Well here is one of my favorite corners in my house.
It's complete with my new chair, (tags still on it and everything lol!) It has family pics, some things that were made especially for me (like the fruit of the Spirit picture handpainted for me by my friend's very talented daughter), and my hubby is usually sitting there. I just like it.
I have been knitting some. I was hoping to get one more pair of socks finished for Socktoberfest, but unless I knit like a madwoman for the rest of the weekend, I don't think I will make it.
Okay, I updated, does anyone still love me?
Last time I promised you a pic of a little stash enhancement. (emphasis on little here)
Can you believe it? That's all I bought. 3 skeins of Wildfoote for the Sodera socks, a hank of a luscious brown Bearfoot, and a new size 1 Addi Turbo. I told ya I was a good girl. Did I pick dark colors or what!!! Fall makes me think of heavy sweaters and wool socks, and a lot of my winter clothes are dark colors. Right now I think I have about 3 or 4 chocolate brown sweaters. Yikes, I might be in a color rut? Oh well, I love brown.
Just for fun:
A while back someone was asking for some pics of a favorite corner in your house. Well here is one of my favorite corners in my house.
It's complete with my new chair, (tags still on it and everything lol!) It has family pics, some things that were made especially for me (like the fruit of the Spirit picture handpainted for me by my friend's very talented daughter), and my hubby is usually sitting there. I just like it.
I have been knitting some. I was hoping to get one more pair of socks finished for Socktoberfest, but unless I knit like a madwoman for the rest of the weekend, I don't think I will make it.
Okay, I updated, does anyone still love me?
Monday, October 23, 2006
A pair X 2
Yupp we have a pair. Wait make that 2 pairs.
First up, a pair of Fetching fingerless gloves.
I finished these this weekend. I think they turned out nicely. Next time I think I will use a softer yarn. (although to be fair, this one may wash up softer) I added a lot of rows after the cuff, and a few extra on the thumb too. I thought they were just too short before. I'm not quite sure who will claim them, but they will fit me or either of my DDs.
Next pair: SOCKS!!!! My stormy night socks to be exact, from the wonderful yarn I got from Catherine. These are so soft!!!!!!!
I love them with their funky striping that reminds me of lightning on a night sky.
Yupp, I had a productive weekend. I love finished projects! (too bad mine are all small....sigh)
Next time I'll show you the stuff I bought this weekend. (I controlled myself...really.)
First up, a pair of Fetching fingerless gloves.
I finished these this weekend. I think they turned out nicely. Next time I think I will use a softer yarn. (although to be fair, this one may wash up softer) I added a lot of rows after the cuff, and a few extra on the thumb too. I thought they were just too short before. I'm not quite sure who will claim them, but they will fit me or either of my DDs.
Next pair: SOCKS!!!! My stormy night socks to be exact, from the wonderful yarn I got from Catherine. These are so soft!!!!!!!
I love them with their funky striping that reminds me of lightning on a night sky.
Yupp, I had a productive weekend. I love finished projects! (too bad mine are all small....sigh)
Next time I'll show you the stuff I bought this weekend. (I controlled myself...really.)
Thursday, October 19, 2006
A weekend away....
The kids didn't have school today or tomorrow, so we are off for the weekend. We are heading up north to see some color, do some wine tasting and of course a little yarn shopping. The kids are excited to swim in the hotel pool, watch movies, and see some fall colors. It should be fun. Wish me lots of knitting time!!!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
A meme
Ok, bear with me. I love these things. They are so funny sometimes!
48 Things You Could Care Less About
1. FIRST NAME? Lisa
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Sunday, lets just say I had a meltdown.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, unless I am in a hurry, then it gets way too sloppy. I am actually fascinated by handwriting.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT? Honey Ham, but I rarely eat lunchmeat.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Wow, I would hope so. I am silly, and I love silly people, so probably yes.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? just this blog
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Nope, removed when I was 3.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Um, are you nuts? NO WAY!
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Oatmeal Crisp with almonds
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Not usually.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? not sure, depends on what kind of strength we are talking about
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Eeek, hard choice. Probably Peanut Butter and Chocolate (with dark choc. ice cream as the base)
14. SHOE SIZE? 8 1/2
15. RED OR PINK? PINK PINK PINK!!!
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My inability to focus.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My grandma. She was killed in a car accident about 20 years ago, and I still miss her like crazy. Oh to have one more hour with her....
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Um, sure. It's kinda like looking in people's windows at night hehe.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jeans, eggplant colored shirt, and my felted clogs.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE? A bowl of chili.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The insulation guys that are making tons of noise in my garage.
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Carnation pink. Why do I have to be only one?
23. FAVORITE SMELL? A clean baby, or bartlett pear candles from Bath and Body.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My aunt.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? EYES!!!!!
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON you stole THIS from? Um, don't know her?
27. FAVORITE DRINK? Diet Coke all the way!
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Soccer, to watch, not play, haha I don't do sports anymore.
29. EYE COLOR? Grey/blue
30. HAT SIZE? Med? I don't wear hats much.
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No, but I may have to give in and get my eyes checked soon.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Sesame chicken? Wow that is too hard to choose just one.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings for sure. I am an incurable romantic. I HATE anything scary!
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer. Duh, beaches, nuff said. (so why do I live in Michigan?)
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Both.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? Key lime pie.
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? No idea.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Again, no idea.
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? None right now, just finished one.
41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE Pad? I don't have a mouse pad.
42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? NCIS (love that show!)
43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Laughter, my daughter singing, rain.
44. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Beatles
45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Aruba
46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Hmmm....I can pop my hip out of joint, and raise my one eyebrow menacingly. (aren't you impressed?)
47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Zeeland Michigan
48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I stole it from blogland.
Okay, I tag you, and you, oh, and you too. Go for it!
48 Things You Could Care Less About
1. FIRST NAME? Lisa
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Sunday, lets just say I had a meltdown.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, unless I am in a hurry, then it gets way too sloppy. I am actually fascinated by handwriting.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT? Honey Ham, but I rarely eat lunchmeat.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Wow, I would hope so. I am silly, and I love silly people, so probably yes.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? just this blog
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Nope, removed when I was 3.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Um, are you nuts? NO WAY!
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Oatmeal Crisp with almonds
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Not usually.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? not sure, depends on what kind of strength we are talking about
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Eeek, hard choice. Probably Peanut Butter and Chocolate (with dark choc. ice cream as the base)
14. SHOE SIZE? 8 1/2
15. RED OR PINK? PINK PINK PINK!!!
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My inability to focus.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My grandma. She was killed in a car accident about 20 years ago, and I still miss her like crazy. Oh to have one more hour with her....
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Um, sure. It's kinda like looking in people's windows at night hehe.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jeans, eggplant colored shirt, and my felted clogs.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE? A bowl of chili.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The insulation guys that are making tons of noise in my garage.
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Carnation pink. Why do I have to be only one?
23. FAVORITE SMELL? A clean baby, or bartlett pear candles from Bath and Body.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My aunt.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? EYES!!!!!
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON you stole THIS from? Um, don't know her?
27. FAVORITE DRINK? Diet Coke all the way!
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Soccer, to watch, not play, haha I don't do sports anymore.
29. EYE COLOR? Grey/blue
30. HAT SIZE? Med? I don't wear hats much.
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? No, but I may have to give in and get my eyes checked soon.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Sesame chicken? Wow that is too hard to choose just one.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings for sure. I am an incurable romantic. I HATE anything scary!
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer. Duh, beaches, nuff said. (so why do I live in Michigan?)
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Both.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? Key lime pie.
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? No idea.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Again, no idea.
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? None right now, just finished one.
41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE Pad? I don't have a mouse pad.
42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? NCIS (love that show!)
43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Laughter, my daughter singing, rain.
44. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Beatles
45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Aruba
46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Hmmm....I can pop my hip out of joint, and raise my one eyebrow menacingly. (aren't you impressed?)
47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Zeeland Michigan
48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I stole it from blogland.
Okay, I tag you, and you, oh, and you too. Go for it!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Questions answered
Some of you had some questions for me, so I will try to answer them here. If you have other questions, please email me through the link in the sidebar. Sometimes I can't email you back through the comments.
First of all, thank you all so much for the compliments on the scarf. I am glad you liked it. I was a little nervous putting the pattern up, because you never know if other people will like the same things that you do. Whew, what a relief! Okay, on to the questions.....
*A few of you had trouble with the stitch pattern on the scarf. - I reworded it a little, so I hope it makes more sense now.
*Jeri asked "you knitted two skeins of Manos into it but one strand at a time, right?" - Yes, one strand at a time.
*AmyS asked "I see P3tog but no increases. Are you supposed to purl each stitch separately, rather than together, the second time?" - No, when you don't drop the stitches on the first purl 3 together, then wrap the yarn around the needle again, then re-purl those 3 stitches together, you still end up with 3 stitches.
*maryse asked if I did the picot edge on the Fethching fingerless gloves. - No I didn't. I had heard that some other knitters didn't really like the picot, and I didn't like the way it flared out around the fingertips either, so I just did a regular bind-off. I like them that way, and it was much easier too.
I hope I didn't forget to answer anyone. Just email me if you have other questions. Have a great day everyone!
*The link to the What-knot scarf pattern is now in the sidebar - YAY!
First of all, thank you all so much for the compliments on the scarf. I am glad you liked it. I was a little nervous putting the pattern up, because you never know if other people will like the same things that you do. Whew, what a relief! Okay, on to the questions.....
*A few of you had trouble with the stitch pattern on the scarf. - I reworded it a little, so I hope it makes more sense now.
*Jeri asked "you knitted two skeins of Manos into it but one strand at a time, right?" - Yes, one strand at a time.
*AmyS asked "I see P3tog but no increases. Are you supposed to purl each stitch separately, rather than together, the second time?" - No, when you don't drop the stitches on the first purl 3 together, then wrap the yarn around the needle again, then re-purl those 3 stitches together, you still end up with 3 stitches.
*maryse asked if I did the picot edge on the Fethching fingerless gloves. - No I didn't. I had heard that some other knitters didn't really like the picot, and I didn't like the way it flared out around the fingertips either, so I just did a regular bind-off. I like them that way, and it was much easier too.
I hope I didn't forget to answer anyone. Just email me if you have other questions. Have a great day everyone!
*The link to the What-knot scarf pattern is now in the sidebar - YAY!
Monday, October 16, 2006
What-knot scarf
I have been busy this weekend making a scarf for a gift and one for myself. I played around with stitch patterns a lot and I think I have a winner.
This scarf is a great stash buster too. It only takes about 200yds of a handpainted or self-striping yarn. I just love it!
Here's the first one I made.
The next one I made for me!
Isn't it gorgeous in Manos? This one I am keeping for myself. After all it has a lot of PINK in it! You all know how much I love pink!
If you would like to make one for yourself, here you go:
What-knot scarf
2 skeins of Manos
Size 11 needles
Note: If you want to fringe your scarf, cut your fringe pieces before you start the body of the scarf. Then you can knit until you run out of yarn.
Cast on 17 stitches.
Row 1: knit
Row 2: k1, *purl 3 together, leaving these stitches on left needle, wrap yarn around right needle again, and then purl these same 3 stitches together for a second time*, repeat from *across row to last stitch, k1
Row 3: knit
Row 4: knit
Repeat these 4 rows until your scarf is desired length or until you run out of yarn, ending after row 3. Bind off. Add fringe if desired.
Enjoy the free pattern. It makes a very nice, quick gift.
(For the first scarf I used Lang Mille Colori #847, 2 skeins, size 9 needles, cast on of 20 sts.) You can use multiples of 3 + 2 for different weights of yarn. Have fun!
This scarf is a great stash buster too. It only takes about 200yds of a handpainted or self-striping yarn. I just love it!
Here's the first one I made.
The next one I made for me!
Isn't it gorgeous in Manos? This one I am keeping for myself. After all it has a lot of PINK in it! You all know how much I love pink!
If you would like to make one for yourself, here you go:
What-knot scarf
2 skeins of Manos
Size 11 needles
Note: If you want to fringe your scarf, cut your fringe pieces before you start the body of the scarf. Then you can knit until you run out of yarn.
Cast on 17 stitches.
Row 1: knit
Row 2: k1, *purl 3 together, leaving these stitches on left needle, wrap yarn around right needle again, and then purl these same 3 stitches together for a second time*, repeat from *across row to last stitch, k1
Row 3: knit
Row 4: knit
Repeat these 4 rows until your scarf is desired length or until you run out of yarn, ending after row 3. Bind off. Add fringe if desired.
Enjoy the free pattern. It makes a very nice, quick gift.
(For the first scarf I used Lang Mille Colori #847, 2 skeins, size 9 needles, cast on of 20 sts.) You can use multiples of 3 + 2 for different weights of yarn. Have fun!
Thursday, October 12, 2006
A little bit of randomness....
First of all, Blogger is really pushing my buttons. I tried at least 10 different times to publish today, but no, it wouldn't let me!!!!! Sorry, rant over.
Ok, yeah, random post today. You're gonna get a little bit of everything.
One: I am really excited. I found a gorgeous pair of knee socks on the web last week, but was really bummed because the pattern wasn't in English. I got in touch with the blogger who made them, and yippee yahooie, woo hoo, yee haw and all that, she TRANSLATED it!!!!!!! Go look here, trust me, it's worth it! These are the most gorgeous knee socks I have ever seen. I need to make them! Really... need is the operative word. But first I need to get some yarn. I only have 100gr of all my solids, and the pattern needs more than that. Aw shucks (wink), I guess I need to put in a yarn order. Oh, and I have to figure out how to make toe-up socks.
Two: Fetching!
Yes, like everyone else, I am making Fetching from Knitty. I had to go to a choir concert last night so I took these along. I finished one, and now I need to finish the other one. Maybe I should have made full mittens instead. This is what I woke up to this morning:
Yuppers that is snow. Yikes. I have to sit at a soccer game Saturday. I hope it warms up a little, or maybe a lot! It was freezing here today.
Three: In major random fashion, I received these from my hubby the other day. They were so pretty, I had to share a pic.
Who can resist 2 dozen white roses? Not me.
Ok, yeah, random post today. You're gonna get a little bit of everything.
One: I am really excited. I found a gorgeous pair of knee socks on the web last week, but was really bummed because the pattern wasn't in English. I got in touch with the blogger who made them, and yippee yahooie, woo hoo, yee haw and all that, she TRANSLATED it!!!!!!! Go look here, trust me, it's worth it! These are the most gorgeous knee socks I have ever seen. I need to make them! Really... need is the operative word. But first I need to get some yarn. I only have 100gr of all my solids, and the pattern needs more than that. Aw shucks (wink), I guess I need to put in a yarn order. Oh, and I have to figure out how to make toe-up socks.
Two: Fetching!
Yes, like everyone else, I am making Fetching from Knitty. I had to go to a choir concert last night so I took these along. I finished one, and now I need to finish the other one. Maybe I should have made full mittens instead. This is what I woke up to this morning:
Yuppers that is snow. Yikes. I have to sit at a soccer game Saturday. I hope it warms up a little, or maybe a lot! It was freezing here today.
Three: In major random fashion, I received these from my hubby the other day. They were so pretty, I had to share a pic.
Who can resist 2 dozen white roses? Not me.
Monday, October 09, 2006
He is Happy!
Parker is happy. I finished felting a pair of slippers for him last night.
I still need to shape them a bit better, but I think they will work for him. I am glad I got them done, he has been bugging me like crazy. I wish I had gotten a pic of him wearing the pre-felted slipper as an elf hat last night. It was hilarious.
I also felted the big bag. So far, NOT SO GOOD! The top of the bag is really baggy and the bottom seems perfect. I'm not sure why. I just know it looks like poo. I think I will run it through another cycle and see if it improves. If not, I may have to cut a piece out of each side near the top (unless one of you has a better idea for me).
I am also working on some socks for Catherine. They are knitting up so fun and funky. There is kinda a lightning bolt thing swirling around the sock. Looks to me like this colorway should be called Stormy Night instead of just night lol. Cool stuff huh?
If you're interested you can find her stuff here.
PS:
HELP!!!! I have an emergency request! Would anyone happen to have an extra skein of Berroco Touche yarn in the light turquoise color (7906) lying around? Dyelot #79023 if possible. I would be happy to buy it from you! I have been looking everywhere around here with no luck!!!! (and there is nothing worse than being one skein short of finishing a sweater - sob!)
I still need to shape them a bit better, but I think they will work for him. I am glad I got them done, he has been bugging me like crazy. I wish I had gotten a pic of him wearing the pre-felted slipper as an elf hat last night. It was hilarious.
I also felted the big bag. So far, NOT SO GOOD! The top of the bag is really baggy and the bottom seems perfect. I'm not sure why. I just know it looks like poo. I think I will run it through another cycle and see if it improves. If not, I may have to cut a piece out of each side near the top (unless one of you has a better idea for me).
I am also working on some socks for Catherine. They are knitting up so fun and funky. There is kinda a lightning bolt thing swirling around the sock. Looks to me like this colorway should be called Stormy Night instead of just night lol. Cool stuff huh?
If you're interested you can find her stuff here.
PS:
HELP!!!! I have an emergency request! Would anyone happen to have an extra skein of Berroco Touche yarn in the light turquoise color (7906) lying around? Dyelot #79023 if possible. I would be happy to buy it from you! I have been looking everywhere around here with no luck!!!! (and there is nothing worse than being one skein short of finishing a sweater - sob!)
Friday, October 06, 2006
Socktoberfest!
Because Lolly has asked, I will answer. (yeah, I joined Socktoberfest!)
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
A friend encouraged me to try socks, and at first I thought she was crazy. I actually gave up on my first pair, but after a few months picked them up again. I have been hooked ever since!
What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time?
My first pair of socks were plain stockinette socks from Ann Norlings Basic Socks pattern. They were made out of a self patterned yarn (I can't even remember what kind!) on size 2 dpns. I don't wear them anymore though, they are not my favorite socks lol.
What would you have done differently?
I definitely would have knit them on smaller needles. They are slightly too big and the gauge is too loose. They are also just a tad too short in the foot.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Wow! My favorites would have to be Socks That Rock, Lorna's Laces, Cherry Tree Hill, Mountain Colors Bearfoot, Opal and Trekking.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I really prefer the Magic Loop, but I will use dpns if I am desperate.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Flap heel, definitely. I have done a few short-row heels, but I prefer knitting and wearing a flap heel sock.
How many pairs have you made?
Well I am not exactly sure. (I stink at keeping track of things!) Probably over 30 pair. What can I say....socks are my fav project!
Here are some of my socks. I have knit several pairs since this picture was taken, and some were given away too. (By the way, my first socks are the blue and grey jaquard ones, just to the right of the bottom of the circle.)
What a great way to celebrate socks! Thanks Lolly!
When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?
A friend encouraged me to try socks, and at first I thought she was crazy. I actually gave up on my first pair, but after a few months picked them up again. I have been hooked ever since!
What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time?
My first pair of socks were plain stockinette socks from Ann Norlings Basic Socks pattern. They were made out of a self patterned yarn (I can't even remember what kind!) on size 2 dpns. I don't wear them anymore though, they are not my favorite socks lol.
What would you have done differently?
I definitely would have knit them on smaller needles. They are slightly too big and the gauge is too loose. They are also just a tad too short in the foot.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?
Wow! My favorites would have to be Socks That Rock, Lorna's Laces, Cherry Tree Hill, Mountain Colors Bearfoot, Opal and Trekking.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?
I really prefer the Magic Loop, but I will use dpns if I am desperate.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)
Flap heel, definitely. I have done a few short-row heels, but I prefer knitting and wearing a flap heel sock.
How many pairs have you made?
Well I am not exactly sure. (I stink at keeping track of things!) Probably over 30 pair. What can I say....socks are my fav project!
Here are some of my socks. I have knit several pairs since this picture was taken, and some were given away too. (By the way, my first socks are the blue and grey jaquard ones, just to the right of the bottom of the circle.)
What a great way to celebrate socks! Thanks Lolly!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Three men and a monkey
No, just kidding. It's really 2 kids and a dog. That's what it takes to get a picture of how big my bag is pre-felting.
Parker and Brodie can both fit inside, and Alex was helping to hold up the sides. The kids thought this was hilarious. They asked why I could possibly want a bag that big. Wait til they see it after I shrink it! The joys of felting.
The Bearfoot socks are finished too. I cannot tell you how much I love this yarn. I can't wait to wear these socks.
Pattern: More Fun Than Cables Socks
Yarn: Mountain Colors Bearfoot in Pheasant
These took me a couple of weeks to complete. Normally I think this pattern would go much quicker, but with the musical and costume stuff, I haven't had enough time to knit!
Hopefully I will have a much smaller bag to show you tomorrow, and a couple of other things too. (If I get through that giant pile of regular laundry, eeek!)
Parker and Brodie can both fit inside, and Alex was helping to hold up the sides. The kids thought this was hilarious. They asked why I could possibly want a bag that big. Wait til they see it after I shrink it! The joys of felting.
The Bearfoot socks are finished too. I cannot tell you how much I love this yarn. I can't wait to wear these socks.
Pattern: More Fun Than Cables Socks
Yarn: Mountain Colors Bearfoot in Pheasant
These took me a couple of weeks to complete. Normally I think this pattern would go much quicker, but with the musical and costume stuff, I haven't had enough time to knit!
Hopefully I will have a much smaller bag to show you tomorrow, and a couple of other things too. (If I get through that giant pile of regular laundry, eeek!)
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Yumm....a new recipe
The other night I didn't know what to have for dinner. We were having one of those busy nights with soccer and musical practice etc. I had left over turkey breast that I had baked and had for dinner the night before. I took it all off the bone and cut it into strips. A casserole wasn't really what I wanted, so I made up a sandwich.
Southwest Turkey Club
Turkey breast strips
Swiss or Provolone cheese slices
Bacon, cooked and drained
Lettuce
Tomato
Sliced bell peppers (I used red ones)
Sauce:
3Tbl. mayo
2Tbl. salsa
Mix together really well.
Take 2 slices of your favorite bread and toast it.
Layer on above ingredients.
Or you could put your sandwich together first and then grill it.
Enjoy!
My family loved this sandwich. It is very good and was a nice change for us. If you have a panini maker, I think it would be even better. Or you could do it like a grilled cheese sandwich too. We just ate them with chips and pickles for a fast and easy meal. It would be great with a bowl of your favorite soup too.
I love fast and easy meals, so I thought I would share this one with you. The next time I make it, I will try to take a picture. Knitting progress next post!
Southwest Turkey Club
Turkey breast strips
Swiss or Provolone cheese slices
Bacon, cooked and drained
Lettuce
Tomato
Sliced bell peppers (I used red ones)
Sauce:
3Tbl. mayo
2Tbl. salsa
Mix together really well.
Take 2 slices of your favorite bread and toast it.
Layer on above ingredients.
Or you could put your sandwich together first and then grill it.
Enjoy!
My family loved this sandwich. It is very good and was a nice change for us. If you have a panini maker, I think it would be even better. Or you could do it like a grilled cheese sandwich too. We just ate them with chips and pickles for a fast and easy meal. It would be great with a bowl of your favorite soup too.
I love fast and easy meals, so I thought I would share this one with you. The next time I make it, I will try to take a picture. Knitting progress next post!
Friday, September 29, 2006
I'm in love!
Haha! With my new sock!
Isn't it pretty? But now my other foot is really jealous. I will fix that this weekend!
This pic reminds me that summer is over. I am ready to put the toe ring in the jewelry box (they can be uncomfortable in some shoes), and get out my wool socks. The switch from sandals and summer shoes to fall and winter shoes is near. How sad. I love summer. My only consolation is that I get to wear all my beautiful socks! Hehe, I just wish I didn't get to wear them quite so long. Michigan winters seem to last forevah!
Speaking of the seasons changing, Steve and I are leaving in the morning for a mini getaway. We will only be gone for 2 days, but we always have fun on our little jaunts. I am hoping to see a little color (although this won't happen if we head south), go wine tasting (Michigan has some awesome wines, the Rieslings are my fav!), shopping, and do some yarn shop visiting. Giggle, we are so boring, we always do the same thing. But it makes us both happy so.........off we go. I will be on the lookout for some other Noro colors while I'm gone, (yes for Lizard Ridge), and I always look at sock yarn! Should be fun!
I'll be back in a few days, hopefully sporting a new pair of socks!
Isn't it pretty? But now my other foot is really jealous. I will fix that this weekend!
This pic reminds me that summer is over. I am ready to put the toe ring in the jewelry box (they can be uncomfortable in some shoes), and get out my wool socks. The switch from sandals and summer shoes to fall and winter shoes is near. How sad. I love summer. My only consolation is that I get to wear all my beautiful socks! Hehe, I just wish I didn't get to wear them quite so long. Michigan winters seem to last forevah!
Speaking of the seasons changing, Steve and I are leaving in the morning for a mini getaway. We will only be gone for 2 days, but we always have fun on our little jaunts. I am hoping to see a little color (although this won't happen if we head south), go wine tasting (Michigan has some awesome wines, the Rieslings are my fav!), shopping, and do some yarn shop visiting. Giggle, we are so boring, we always do the same thing. But it makes us both happy so.........off we go. I will be on the lookout for some other Noro colors while I'm gone, (yes for Lizard Ridge), and I always look at sock yarn! Should be fun!
I'll be back in a few days, hopefully sporting a new pair of socks!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
You've got MAIL!!!!!
I love it when I get knitterly mail! Today my mailperson brought this:
This is the yummy new handpainted yarn from my friend Catherine. She asked if I would test knit a skein for her and of course I said YES!!!!! You can read about her dyeing adventures on her blog. This skein is called Night and it is gorgeous. The depth of color is amazing. I can't wait to knit this up.
There are all shades of blue with some splashes of white (stars). The deepest blue looks almost black. She named this color perfectly. It definitely reminds me of the night sky. She has other colors available too. If you want to see them, visit her Etsy shop.
I have been working on the Bearfoot socks, I am past the heel now and almost through the gusset decreases. The rest of the foot should go pretty fast now. I work on these in the daytime if I can, because the yarn is pretty dark, and the old eyes don't see like they used to. I'm still loving the pattern and the yarn.
The GIANT bag has been bound off. The pattern calls for a turned over hem at the top, so I need to whipstitch that, and then I can felt it! YAY!!
Confession time. (hangs head in shame)
I bought two balls of Noro yesterday.
I don't know if I can hold out much longer.
I'm not kidding, that Lizard Ridge is haunting me! HELP!
This is the yummy new handpainted yarn from my friend Catherine. She asked if I would test knit a skein for her and of course I said YES!!!!! You can read about her dyeing adventures on her blog. This skein is called Night and it is gorgeous. The depth of color is amazing. I can't wait to knit this up.
There are all shades of blue with some splashes of white (stars). The deepest blue looks almost black. She named this color perfectly. It definitely reminds me of the night sky. She has other colors available too. If you want to see them, visit her Etsy shop.
I have been working on the Bearfoot socks, I am past the heel now and almost through the gusset decreases. The rest of the foot should go pretty fast now. I work on these in the daytime if I can, because the yarn is pretty dark, and the old eyes don't see like they used to. I'm still loving the pattern and the yarn.
The GIANT bag has been bound off. The pattern calls for a turned over hem at the top, so I need to whipstitch that, and then I can felt it! YAY!!
Confession time. (hangs head in shame)
I bought two balls of Noro yesterday.
I don't know if I can hold out much longer.
I'm not kidding, that Lizard Ridge is haunting me! HELP!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Now THAT'S a bag...
I am making some progress on my tote. This thing is huge. I think I could carry a small child in it pre-felting.
I also finished the two yards of i-cord. 8 stitch i-cord. Did I mention how much I HATE doing i-cord? I think I have about 12 or so rows to go. Then I can shrink the thing, YAY!
I started a new pair of socks too. I am not very far but they are looking nice. Here is a close up of the stitches.
I am using Mountain Colors Bearfoot in the Pheasant colorway. I love it so far. I am using Marguerite's More Fun Than Cables pattern. It would probably show up better on a solid yarn, but I just love this yarn, so I am going with it. I got this skein as a gift from a good friend. She doesn't like the mohair in it, but I think it's yummy. Lucky me!
I am really hoping for more knitting time, but things have just not been going my way I tell ya! Friday my dad had to go for another hand surgery. My sis and I ended up going to the hospital, because when he came out he was having chest pains. YIKES! Scared us half to death. They did release him after lots of testing and seeing a heart specialist, but now he needs to go for a stress test to check his heart more thoroughly. At the same time, his brother was in the hospital because of a heart attack. Good grief! You know what? I am sick of drama lol. My life has had enough of it lately. It can only get better right? Aren't you glad you are not related to me?
Last but not least, Brodie says hi! (sorry for the el-crapo pic - one of the kids took it, but it looks so much like him!)
Awww....isn't he cute?
I also finished the two yards of i-cord. 8 stitch i-cord. Did I mention how much I HATE doing i-cord? I think I have about 12 or so rows to go. Then I can shrink the thing, YAY!
I started a new pair of socks too. I am not very far but they are looking nice. Here is a close up of the stitches.
I am using Mountain Colors Bearfoot in the Pheasant colorway. I love it so far. I am using Marguerite's More Fun Than Cables pattern. It would probably show up better on a solid yarn, but I just love this yarn, so I am going with it. I got this skein as a gift from a good friend. She doesn't like the mohair in it, but I think it's yummy. Lucky me!
I am really hoping for more knitting time, but things have just not been going my way I tell ya! Friday my dad had to go for another hand surgery. My sis and I ended up going to the hospital, because when he came out he was having chest pains. YIKES! Scared us half to death. They did release him after lots of testing and seeing a heart specialist, but now he needs to go for a stress test to check his heart more thoroughly. At the same time, his brother was in the hospital because of a heart attack. Good grief! You know what? I am sick of drama lol. My life has had enough of it lately. It can only get better right? Aren't you glad you are not related to me?
Last but not least, Brodie says hi! (sorry for the el-crapo pic - one of the kids took it, but it looks so much like him!)
Awww....isn't he cute?
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Back and catching up!
Well I am back from NJ. We had a really good time. The wedding was very nice, the reception was fabulous (WOW! The seafood!!!!!) and it was great to see some of family members again. I haven't seen some of them in years, so it was great! I forgot my camera though, so I have no pics. We walked to the ocean from my uncle's house. They live a couple of blocks from Pt. Pleasant beach. We drove past the boardwalk and saw some gorgeous multi-million dollar homes. Sigh.......
I am glad to be back though, because of course, much work awaited my return. I am finally catching my breath a bit, but I really feel bad I haven't updated before now.
I have been knitting.....a little.
I finished this little blankie for my niece Kennedy (aka Peep to me). She has this little attachment to another yellow blankie (appropriately named Yellow - gotta love kids), but her other one is falling apart. So I thought we would try this one, to make original Yellow last a little longer. This yarn is called Heaven or something, I lost the band. It is very, very soft and not that horrible to work with. It only took me a few hours in the car to finish it. Parker was feeling the yarn, and now he wants one too. So yesterday I picked up a skein of blue and one of white to make one for him too. Easy project - Yay!
Also on the ride to NJ I finally started my Maggie's Tote (Fiber Trends pattern). I am using some handpainted yarn from Briar Rose Fibers. I am alternating between skeins a little, hoping for a bit of subtle striping. The colors scream autumn to me, very appropriate for this time of year. Brrrr, it is supposed to get down in the 30's here tonight. Hey! It might be time to start an afghan hehe. (yes I will say anything to justify making THAT blanket!)
No progress on the shawls, minimal progress on the socks and I still haven't found another skein of yarn for the cardi. I have a couple more local stores to try, so I hope I get lucky.
I should be exercising, because, wow, I think I ate enough for 3 people last weekend. YIKES! Does cleaning count?.........I didn't think so.
I am glad to be back though, because of course, much work awaited my return. I am finally catching my breath a bit, but I really feel bad I haven't updated before now.
I have been knitting.....a little.
I finished this little blankie for my niece Kennedy (aka Peep to me). She has this little attachment to another yellow blankie (appropriately named Yellow - gotta love kids), but her other one is falling apart. So I thought we would try this one, to make original Yellow last a little longer. This yarn is called Heaven or something, I lost the band. It is very, very soft and not that horrible to work with. It only took me a few hours in the car to finish it. Parker was feeling the yarn, and now he wants one too. So yesterday I picked up a skein of blue and one of white to make one for him too. Easy project - Yay!
Also on the ride to NJ I finally started my Maggie's Tote (Fiber Trends pattern). I am using some handpainted yarn from Briar Rose Fibers. I am alternating between skeins a little, hoping for a bit of subtle striping. The colors scream autumn to me, very appropriate for this time of year. Brrrr, it is supposed to get down in the 30's here tonight. Hey! It might be time to start an afghan hehe. (yes I will say anything to justify making THAT blanket!)
No progress on the shawls, minimal progress on the socks and I still haven't found another skein of yarn for the cardi. I have a couple more local stores to try, so I hope I get lucky.
I should be exercising, because, wow, I think I ate enough for 3 people last weekend. YIKES! Does cleaning count?.........I didn't think so.
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