Trixie's Stix

I'm Just Sayin' . . .

2010-09-25T13:11:00.002-04:00

Now, it's not like me to complain. If I am going to voice an angry opinion, I am going to *ITCH, not complain. It would be long, loud and you would know I was pissed off. So it is important for you to keep that in mind with the my following topic.

Ever go to the gym and have someone latch on to you? Now every time you are there, they are mysteriously there? Waiting to get on the treadmill right next to you? When you are finished with the workout, they conveniently leave too? Never actually asking you to shower, but being a little too close? If you answered yes to any of these, you know what I mean. To enjoy an occasional chat is one thing, to interfere with my workout is a completely different!

If this keeps up, I'm going to have to take a break from working out. Think I'll just stay home an knit.

How many calories can a girl burn knitting anyway?

I'm not complaining, I'm just sayin' . . . .

new endings

2010-06-13T09:17:00.004-04:00

Haruni is almost finished. 99% done. I have to say that I love how it has grown and bloomed on my needles. It has been one of those projects that the knitting goddess blessed. The yarn was a joy, not to mention the color is divine. Of course my Addi Turbos are the bomb. A pattern that is clearly written and fun to knit is a bonus.

At the time I decided to tackle this project, I was leery of the crochet bind-off. I have little to no experience with the hook. Even though I own an entire set (thanks Gram). The pattern says that the size of the hook doesn't matter, so I tried to use one I thought was the same gauge as my knitting. Also, I wanted to embellish the shawl so I was adding some dainty silver lined beads to the bind off. Then, the goddess changed her mind. . . this wasn't to be "the one." Disaster struck when I ran out of yarn with only a few more inches of bind off to go. I knew the yardage would be tight, but went for it. Now there is no more yarn at the yarn shop (already checked). My only option is to rip back to the beginning of the bind off and use a smaller crochet hook. Dread.

13 miles and 10 inches

2010-06-12T15:11:00.005-04:00

So between now and our last conversation, I have finished a half marathon and a 25K run. Officially, I now hate running. It's not fun anymore. RM and I run on Saturday mornings together. We have been doing about 10 - 11 miles at a time. During our runs he will ask me if I love running, exalting how great running is and how could anyone not love it. Every time I can say absolutely, without hesitation - NO, I don't love it. At all. But . . . I can't seem to stop. It takes the weight off (still trying to drop those last 10 or 15 pounds from baby) and I feel great after. The added benefit is that I get to spend a few hours alone with RM. Anyone with children will understand the benefit of that! Hence, I keep running.

Finished a new project. It was quick and just what I needed. It is Springtime in Philadelphia by Kate Gagnon Osborn. Clearly written and very short! Just what I like in a pattern. I cast on for the hat on June 6 and was finished (blocking and all) on June 12. How's that?!

The yarn was Crystal Palace Yarns Panda Silk Solid in a very light lavender. Not sure if this color will be flattering on me. My hair is a mousy brown that only RM could love. I have a sister-in-law that has red hair (if you are reading this, and you know who you are - look away now), so this might be a great holiday gift for her.

Only a few more weeks of school left, so I can return to knitting, blogging and home repair with a vengence!

Arg And A Prayer

2010-04-23T14:27:00.004-04:00

Update on the Twist socks! Made it through the portion of the pattern I was having trouble with. But do you want to know a wonderful thing? The designer, Jody Gordan Lucas read my post and contacted me! She wanted to personally see if I was doing ok and how she could help. Now, I am offically impressed. She didn't have to do that, but she did. How awesome!

I also cast on for a new prayer shawl. It is Haruni by Emily Ross. I found it on Ravlery. The crochet bind-off will be my challenge. I bought some great yarn for this project at Your Local Yarn Shop. Classic Eltie Alpaca Sox is the yarn that I chose, in a gorgeous plum/pink color.

Gotta run . . . literally, as the half-marathon is tomorrow.

Pirates and Twists

2010-04-11T16:03:00.008-04:00

Back in 2007, I bought some yarn on line. Truth be told, it was my first on-line yarn purchase. I had a design for a valentine-type sock in mind. The colors of this yarn would have worked perfectly. . . if I had finished designing the sock. Alas, the yarn came and the design sat. And sat. It's still sitting at home somewhere, I think. The yarn is a superwash 50/50 merino/tencel by Yarn Pirate. It is a fingering weight yarn that is silky smooth to touch. Sweetheart is the colorway name, with red, white, pink and magenta repeating through out. But because the pattern sat, the yarn did too. Occasionally, I would consider using the yarn for a pattern. But it just didn't seem to work. Either the pattern would be too lacy or the yarn would be too bold. I had given up matching the two.

Along came Twisted by Jodie Gordon Lucas. Not too lacy. Not too fussy. Just enough pattern to keep things interesting, but not muddy the water. I began to think that this just might work. What do you think?

So far, things have been going fine. I have just begun the decreases/increases for across the foot. I am having trouble making sense of this portion of the pattern. So I will take these to the lunch knitting bunch to see if they can help. If not, then I will have to chart it out. Do you occasionally chart patterns out if you have trouble? I find it very helpful to visually see what is happening. Because it sidelines my knitting for a while, I use it as a last resort. The lunch ladies will be able to help me . . . I hope.

Tiny Ruffles

2010-04-05T19:37:00.005-04:00

So, I work with this great lady. She has joined us (our "group" is 4 strong now) knitting during our lunch everyday. See, we walk to the library and knit for a half hour before we eat. Not a whole lot of time, but enough to complete a few rows each day. It is satisfying to know that I can complete a project this way . . . even if it does take the whole school year! But back to the conversation at hand. This lady is fun to be around and is enjoying her knitting. Though still learning, she tackles everything head on. Sometimes, taking the pattern too seriously, she make a few mistakes and gets frustrated. But she is sticking with it, having finished a sweater, half a sock and a baby blanket.

Well, this lady has a new grand baby! So I started these for her. Aren't they just the sweetest?! Besides my poor color choice, I think they are cute. Next time I will choose bolder colors. The pastels get lost and muddy. They are Rufflicious by Diane Kostecki. The yarn is called Blue Terra Cotta by Claudia Hand Painted Yarns and an Ivory by Lorna's Lace. Both are fingering weight and were easy to knit with.

Prayer Answered

2010-03-28T15:25:00.005-04:00

The prayer shawl is complete, blessed and gone to its recipient. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to knit for such a great cause. During grief, loss or strife, to have something warm, soft and cozy wrapped around your shoulders is comforting.

I cast on for this project on October 20, 2009. The yarn came from Your Local Yarn Shop in Battle Creek. It is Classic Elite Alpaca Sox in green. This yarn is so soft and comfy, that I could snuggle in it all day long. Taking two skeins was a bit expensive, but well worth the cost.

The pattern is the Scalloped Lace Shawl Pattern by Kristin Omdahl. It also came from Your Local Yarn Shop. They have a knit sample that is fantastic! Their shawl is done in orange solid yarn for the body and a variegated orange for the scalloped trim. It’s stunning.

So, I finished mine on January 19, 2010. There were some small “bumps” along the way. But if you don’t look for them, you can’t see them. Now that’s a typical response for me. Hopefully, the person who receives this shawl won’t mind. Blocking the shawl was a challenge, due to its size. I ended up laying plastic bags down on a full size mattress with towels over the top of that. Then I started pinning. And pinning. And pinning. After that I kept creeping back into the bedroom to adjust a pin here, move a pin there and make final changes. Wow. Now, I can see why blocking wires are a good thing.

One thing I did observe about this pattern is that you need to bind off in much larger needles. I went up to a 10.5 US to keep the stitches as loose as possible. The other recommendation I would make is to definitely take the extra time for the I-cord bind off. It gives the piece a "finished" look that I really favored.

Little Treats

2010-01-10T10:06:00.006-05:00

It was time to place a boat load of stitch markers on the prayer shawl. Well, you know me, I didn't have the right kind. Those little rubber rings (though right for certain projects) weren't doing for me this time. So I trotted out and I bought these. How fun are they? I purchased them at Your Local Yarn Shop. She had several different styles to choose from. You should check 'em out!

Prayer Shawl

2009-11-08T07:52:00.000-05:00

Church has a knitting group! Now I should have know this, but some how I did not. I found out about the group but accident. Bizy-girl (aka Bean, aka Curly) wore a hand knit dress to church a few weeks ago. It's knit up in a dark blue, all cotton yarn. Very cute orange flower buttons finish off the faux wrap style of the top. She looked adorable! My sister in-law knit it for Biz's first birthday. SIL is a fantastic knitter who turns out fabulous project after project. I'm a little envious of this, as I barely have time to finish a cup of coffee, let alone a project. Between choosing colleges with Soccer Chica, keeping a 2nd grade boy out of trouble, and changing a 15 month old baby (really the biggest challenge of them all) I can't seen to remember to breath. It' a good thing that breathing is not optional.

Well, while one of the church ladies was admiring the dress, she asked me if I knit it. For a split second I wanted to say "Why yes, yes, I did." Then I remembered where I was and I didn't want to hurt SIL feelings. Would she ever know? No. But I would know. And it would be wrong. Not to mention the ramifications of fibbing in church. Drat those morals.

Anyhow, she commenced to invite me to the prayer shawl group! I was so excited that I just had to go out an purchase new supplies to knit my very own prayer shawl. So I bought a pattern by Kristin Ohmadal for a scalloped lace edged shawl and some alpaca sock yarn by Classic Elite Yarns in a nice green. I really wanted a soft gray, but could find anything in my price rangethat I was in love with. Now I purchased it all at Your Local Yarn Shop here in Battle Creek. Did I ever mentioned that this shop is within walking distance of my home and work? How dangerous is that?! The gal who helped me was sweet and knew that I was struggling with my choices. She definitely had patience.

I am a little over half way done with the knitting. At this point it looks like I have knit a large, moldy dish cloth. But I know that the shawl will block out lovely, so I am not discouraged.

Here's What I Got

2009-10-25T11:02:00.007-04:00

Obviously by the amount of posting I have been doing, my life is busy. So let's cut to the chase and show you my current WIP's.

First, I am working on a pair of pedicure socks for a very good friend's birthday. Well, her birthday was a few weeks ago and I only have one done. Guess we will move this one to the Christmas present column for her. These socks were first knit up as a pair of Roza Socks by Grumperina, but I really thought the colors got muddy. So after a soothing rip out session, they have become pedicure socks. I did not look for a pattern, but just made it up as I went. Some after thought research showed me that I was not the first to knit a sock like this. There are several lovely pedicure sock patterns out there.

Next, I have begun the Barn Raising Quilt by Shelley Mackie and Larissa Brown. I cast on for this in July and figure I'll be done some time in the next 10 years. My plan is to use all my old sock yarn scraps. Which I have almost blown through. See my predicament? I will need to knit new socks before I can knit the square. But this is an EASY pattern to memorize, so I can use it as my travel knitting. Plus ski season is coming and I will have lots of time to knit while watching the little one run around the lodge.

There are more, and I will try to update in the next few weeks with those projects. Missed you all!

Bow Tied

2009-07-15T08:14:00.000-04:00

The ever elusive finished knit decided to show its self today. Though is has been complete for sometime, being shy, it only shows itself on cooler summer days/nights. The bow tied bolero was first seen in this area here. So as you can see by the date on the post, it hides from public view on purpose.

Want to know about this quiet knit? Well, it is a Debbie Bliss pattern, knit with Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton. The color just pops against the white linen dress that Bean has on. I started this on June 9, 2008 and finished on September 12, 2008. Again, the reminder that this knit is very shy. You can also find details on ravelry.

Unfortunately, I do not have a photos yet of the front, but it turned out well. If you follow my blog, you know that I am very careful not to publish the faces of our kids. There are several fabulous photos of the front, but all have the sweet Bean's face in them. yes I could crop them out, but I would also crop out part of the sweater. Babies just don't want to hold still. There is a very great appreciation for the professional photographers of babies in our household. How do they do it? Once we snap a decent photo, I will amend this post, OK?

Another note, because the ties were so long (next time I would make them shorter), they are wrapped around Bean and tied in the back. Since she is crawling and can not be bothered by things hanging down, this was the best solution.

blast from my past

2009-04-16T13:16:00.010-04:00

I found this vest in a pile of clothes a friend gave to me when Biz was born. It looked familiar. Where did I recognize this top from? Think, Trixie, think . . . then it hit me.

I knit that damn thing!

At first I was a little irked that a gift was "re-gifted" back to me. But then it occurred to me that because this was one of my first knits, no photos were ever taken. All I had to document this fun garment was a notebook page with the details. So, let's begin, shall we.

We are all aware that I lean (understatement) toward Debbie Bliss patterns. I am not sure if it is the pattern itself or the styling/photos in the books that reel me in. either way, I have knit a few here, and here, and here, and . . . you get the picture.

This pattern is titled Eyelet Vest and is on page 8 of Special Knits by Debbie Bliss. I knit this in record time, only five days from start to finish. That includes shopping for ribbon and buttons.

Can I mention, extremely off topic by the way, that it is almost 60 degrees outside! The sun is shinning, the birds are singing and I can hear the hum of a boat motor on the lake. Biz is napping on a blanket next to the slider, which is open slightly to let in a fresh breeze. If I take a deep breath, I can almost smell summer.

Back to the matter at hand. I used Plymouth Yarns Dreambaby DK in a soft green. It knit well, from what I can remember. The yarn also seems to have stood the test of time and baby wear, as there is no pilling and any stains wash right out. Feeling smooth and soft is also another positive for this yarn. I ask myself why I haven't knit with this yarn again. There is no excuse, except maybe that I like natural fibers better than microfiber. Only taking two balls of yarn was very easy on the pocket book! Back in 2006 I wasn't as worried about these things as I am now.

A word about the notions on this vest. The pattern calls for a small button at the back of the neck (thank heavens, because Biz's big noggin definitely would not fit through without it). I chose a small shell button with browns and greens. It compliments that piece nicely. After several attempts to photograph the button I gave up. Biz was not cooperative at all. The ribbon is run-of-the-mill ribbon from the local craft shop in an ivory color. I do not know the brand.

Blocking the vest after each wash is a must. Notice the fabric roll at the bottom. No matter what I do, at the end of the day it is rolling.

So this was my trip down knitting memory lane. It is very nice to see where I started my knitting era and how I have changed since then. Re-gifting back to me in this case was good. Note to self: I think I'll hold on to this vest for when Biz has a baby. Then it's not re-gifting . . . it's passing along heirlooms!

New Look

2009-04-03T23:32:00.000-04:00

What do you think?

Better Photo

2009-02-22T16:56:00.004-05:00

Here is a better photo of tulle-ing around.

If you want all the juicy details, they can be fournd here.

Tulle - ing Around

2009-02-07T16:53:00.004-05:00

Here is a cute little hat I knit for Bean. What a fun project. It has all the ingredients to make for a quick, adorable project.

Obviously, Bean wouldn't hold still to get a clear, crisp photo. So we take what we can get.

Details incase you want to make one too. The pattern is from Susan B. Anderson's Itty-Bitty Hats, called Simple Baby Cap 1. I followed the directions to add the tulle, though next time I will shorten the tulle length's from 20 inches to 10 or 15 inches. I used Debbie Bliss' Baby Cashmerino in lavender. Can you believe I found tulle that matches perfectly?!

Nearly Done

2009-01-18T17:19:00.008-05:00

As you can imagine, babies get in the way of knitting. Seriously, I thought I would chug right along after Bean was born. Gleefully knitting, stopping for the occasional diaper change, feeding or play time. Can we all say "Wrong!" together?

Picture this: I am serenely sitting in my pristine house, knitting on my next project. It was started yesterday and I will finish it tomorrow (though all other knitters are taking a month or more to complete it). Being dressed in a trendy, yet classic outfit that is newly pressed, I am comfortable and looking good. The sun is a casting her rays through my spotless windows on to my lap, where my knitting rests. A soft baby lullaby plays in the background; I smile and turn to look at my lovely jewel of a baby sleeping in the bassinet next to me. She gently stirs, coos, and then returns to blissful dreams. All the while I knit. Truly the perfect picture.

Reality: My house looks like a bomb has gone off. Glasses, food and toys lay every where. All traces of knitting have been placed high and away because the sight of them makes me sad. There are umpteen projects in various stages of completion that are nowhere near the end (though all other knitters have completed the same projects months ago). I am in a semi-comatose state, with baby spit up on my holey sweatshirt and ripped jeans. BTW - if you could smell me, well . . . let's just say a bath in the last 24 hours hasn't happened. The snow is more than a foot deep and the temperature could freeze the *&!#% off a witch. We haven't seen sun in weeks! I'm not sure how we would as my windows are a filthy blend of finger prints, dirt and ice. Wall-e plays on the DVD player, while RM and I play Rock-Paper-Scissors to see who is going to change Bean's dirty pants. Did I mention that she can cry . . . LOUD? Truly the picture of reality.

While I make it sound terrible, I do love my family. We have a lot of fun and I wouldn't trade them for love or money. They are my life. My lovely, average, normal life.

I have managed to get some knitting done on my lunch hour. May I present Bean's Cardigan - pre blocking. It's a nice knit, that in someone else's knitting repertoire would have been completed much sooner. I think I cast on about September, 2008. The pattern is Cardigan with Moss Stitch Edging by Debbie Bliss. Easy to follow, though I found the pockets a bit fussy. If I were to make this again, I would omit them. I used the Bernat Soy Natural Blends that I frogged from Juliet. It is a very soft yarn. Leaving me to wonder why it was discontinued. If anyone has a clue to this, I would be glad to know. I now need to wash, block and sew on the button - in my free time.

Well, I lost at Rock-Paper-Scissor . . .

Remember?

2009-01-18T16:21:00.001-05:00

What? I can't remember . . .

Coffee Cup

See, i knew it was a good thing . . .

Happy Holidays

2008-12-27T10:37:00.004-05:00

We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

It's off to Boyne Mountain for our annual week of rest, relaxing and skiing/snowboarding. See you in the Snowflake Lounge! I'll be the one with a baby and my knitting. What a wonderful way to end 2008 and begin 2009.

Gifts From The Village

2008-10-04T19:34:00.008-04:00

We are blessed to live in a neighborhood where everyone gets along. In truth, this is an understatement. During the summer month's we spend most of our days and/or evenings together. The kids play while the adults sip cocktails and laugh - a lot. We help one another when times are tough or when the big household job gets to be too much. Each adult in my neighborhood truly believes that it takes a village to raise a child. Consequently, we are entwined in each others lives. It is a great feeling.

When bean was born, they threw a shower for me. And someone was very thoughtful in their gift! The book is Cashmerino 2 by Debbie Bliss. There are some beautiful designs in here. Oh where to start!

A bonus was the yarn included. I see this as a cute little bolero or something. Who knows yet. It is sitting on my desk, aging to perfection. What an excuse to peruse ravelry for a new project!

Pouring In

2008-09-13T16:36:00.007-04:00

Rain that is. Southwest Michigan seems to be getting quite a bit today. There is a small leak in our roof - in several places. With buckets safely under the offending leaks, I can now focus on the water that is slowing filling my basement. An indoor pool has always been a dream of mine, but honestly.

Why do we tolerate this? Because we a slowing working our way toward a new addition. These decisions are big and we wouldn't want to rush them. To make a roof replacement only to rip it off the next year for the addition is silly.

In the mean time, it pains me to report that sweet Juliet has met her demise and was frogged yesterday. Due to a slight miscalculation on my part, not enough yarn was purchased to complete the sweater. After checking several sources, I found out that the yarn has been discontinued and no one seems to have any. In addition, the sweater seems to be HUGE and I am knitting a small. The weight of double stranded yarn made the bodice stretch too much for my liking. New revelation - anything knit in a double strand of worsted or in a chunky yarn is too bulky for my frame. My thoughts are turning to knit this up single strand of worsted, in a different gauge. Having never attempted this feat, let alone without a net, I think I will table this for quiet, up-north knitting.

Silence

2008-09-11T08:16:00.000-04:00

At 8:46 am we will remember.

Round And Round We Go

2008-09-05T09:58:00.016-04:00

We took a little family trip to Cedar Point! I love thrill rides. The taller, faster and zoomier (my own word) the better. RM and soccer chica love the rides too. Boo-boo, not so much. So we were iffy on whether or not he would have a good time. It could have turned out as a day of motorized cars and Jr. Gemini for us. Yet, he found his inner coaster love and can't be kept off them. As for Bean, she definitely wouldn't ride any rides this year. Our model of baby definitely does not come equipped with thrill ride capabilities. We will have to purchase that up grade when she gets to be 48" tall. She reclined gracefully in the stroller, choosing to be chauffeured around the park in style.

We had a day of fun, thrills, and trip to first aide. Suffice to say the Snoopy Balloon ride did RM in. He can ride all the coasters, ski down double black diamonds, hike to the top of mountains, etc. But when it comes to the kiddie rides that go in a circle . . . he's toast. Having never had motion sickness before (and being a bit of a drama-king when it comes to feeling ill) RM thought there was something seriously wrong with him. He was certain it was a stroke, heart attack or some dreaded disease. So off to get some Dramamine and an hour of rest at the First Aide Station. For the rest of the day, it was RM not Boo-boo who was content to ride the motorized cars.

Note to all mothers nursing or not: Both First Aide stations in the park have a beautiful nursing room and kid area, complete with TV and games. This was a god-send for nursing and once discovered, used frequently. BTW - it's air conditioned.

So while RM and I took turns waiting for the kids to ride the coasters, I did a little knitting. I mentioned here that I bought some Panda Bamboo Silk at Your Local Yarn Shop. A hat for Bean would be the right choice because it is such a lovely shade of pink. Never having knit with this yarn before, a gauge square is a prerequisite. I think the hat will be a simple stockinette stitch and knit in the round. As for embellishments, I have vision of some flowers - big and flashy for Bean's inner diva.

Did you take note of the tennis shoes I was wearing? They are my beautiful Chuck Taylor's that I received for my anniversary of my birthday. I wear them everywhere. The other items on the stroller were necessities for the day. Gum to keep away bad breath. I always indulge in the over-priced, uber-greasy park food. Plus pain reliever to take away the various headaches that arise when we travel with a 16 year old (who wants nothing to do with kiddie rides and never smiles), a 6 year old (who discovered that he loves roller coasters - yea - and wants to ride them all NOW) and a 6 week old (who just wants to eat, sleep, and poop).

In the future, I will be knitting circles around RM as he sits out the circle amusement rides.

New Yarn Shop in Town

2008-08-29T13:17:00.004-04:00

RM wanted me to get out of the house, though I don't understand why. I haven't showered in what seems like a month. My new perfume is a combination of baby poo, breast milk and 7 layers of floral scented deodorant. But he insisted I get out for an hour or two. So I showered and took a drive. Meandering along, I decided a nice visit to a new yarn shop would be good. And good it was. I wanted to snap up several things, but in the end got two skeins of Crystal Palace Yarns Panda Silk in pink and lavender. Not sure what I will make with them yet. Maybe a cute pair of socks and hat for Bean? A pair of bed socks for me? Belt or headband for Soccer Chica? Who knows. For that matter who cares? What I do know is that I got to purchase yarn from a nice shop.

There is a new yarn shop in my town! I should tell you it's within walking distance of my house! Please read into that statement "dangerous . . . too close for comfort . . . thinking of moving even closer." It's called Your Local Yarn Shop and it just opened. They have a good selection of yarn and shipments just keep coming in. Everyone was so friendly. There is a lovely spot with comfy couches and good light to "just come in and knit!", as I was so kindly invited to do.

The Great Unveiling

2008-08-27T10:40:00.005-04:00

So I have been working on this project with RM for a while now. And many of you may have noticed a few baby knits I have made for a "dear friend." Well, here is what we have been stressing, sweating, eating right and exercising for . . .

We are pleased to announce that Curly or Bean, as she is now being called, entered our family in mid-July. She weighed 7 lbs and was 20 inches long. This model does all the normal things a baby girl is advertised to do. She poops (a lot), eats and sleeps. Repeat every two hours or so. We are woozy with excitement, OK really it's lack of sleep, but woozy just the same. At 40 years old, I don't know if I am equipped with the coping abilities needed for a new baby, but what the hell.

She is a blessing and we are very excited to welcome her. Hope you like my big project as much as we do.

Lot's of Life, a Little Knitting

2008-07-12T13:09:00.007-04:00

My blog sub title says "Knitting . . . with a little life thrown in." Well, that is true with the exception that life has been over taking all knitting of late. Remember the secret project I have been terribly preoccupied with? Well, in a few more weeks that will be wrapped up. RM has even contributed a bit to give the finished product a little flair. We are breathless with anticipation. It has not been an easy road. Along the way we have had nausea, disappointments, aches, pains and many bumps in the road. I know the end result will be fantastic. Hopefully we get great reviews on it.

I had one of these a week or so ago. Now, I really love my birthday, but really don't like receiving presents, being the center of attention or my age. Back about 7 years ago, I decided that I would no longer celebrate my birthday, but the anniversary of my favorite birthday. Happy anniversary-birthday to me!

The kids made a lovely cake that tasted a hell of a lot better than it looked. Though beautiful, it would not make Food Network's top ten list. I took this photo after the candles where gone and a few tasty pieces eaten.

JJ is getting ready to burst, literally. The baby should be here by Monday (as if nature doesn't take it's course, her doctor will be helping things along). When we spoke yesterday, she was having fun picking out what her little sprite will wear home from the hospital. She has even knitted a hat, sweater and booties for him if it is cool enough . . . in Oklahoma. Somehow, I doubt it will be that cool. But they could always turn up the A/C a little (kidding!). Mom is there providing love, support and smothering helping JJ out. Yep.

I started this little project the other day. It is the bow-tied bolero from Simple Knits by Debbie Bliss. Having made this several times (it makes a quick and easy new baby gift), I can knit it in my sleep. Someone near and dear is having a baby and I wanted to knit her something for after the baby arrives. She is having a little girl, so this will be perfect.

I am using Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton yarn for the sweater. It is so soft! Definitely will use this yarn again.

Seeing Double

2008-07-10T15:07:00.011-04:00

So here is the finished product for JJ's little guys. This pattern is so easy to knit and goes fast. Too bad I don't have any more toddler boys to knit for.

I had to use the flash so the stitch definition would be clear. So, the colors are slightly off. I really think that JJ's boys will enjoy these sweaters with a pair of khaki shorts and sandals. Little Man looked adorable in it (his was the larger size) with white linen pants.

I had stated that the yarn matched perfectly despite a three year difference in knitting time. Well, I was wrong. The smaller size is a touch lighter than the larger. Yet to someone watching a toddler and infant, they will never notice. So, what the hey?!

JJ's new little man is due any day, with a scheduled induction for July 14. Um, sounds painful. We are all waiting with bated breath for the new little man to arrive. I'll keep you posted.

An now for the exciting details. I blogged about this here.

Pattern: Hooded Sweater by Debbie Bliss
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Needles: US 8 Bamboo Circular
Started: April 13, 2008
Finished: July 1, 2008
Notes: None, I was definitely taking the safe road on this one.

New Project

2008-04-27T16:51:00.013-04:00

At the beginning of my knitting career, I knit a hooded sweater for Boo-boo. Because of my naivety in the realm of natural fibers I chose a lovely acrylic with no dye lot. I did not do a gauge swatch, just matched the recommendations on the ball band to the recommendations in the pattern. It knit up just fine, though pilled like mad. It must be mentioned that the pattern only went up to 12-24 month size. Alas, Boo-boo was well beyond that size by the time I took up knitting. What was I to do? What every naive new knitter does . . . I forged ahead and made something up. Really, I did. In actuality, I just made note of the adjustments the author made for each size and kept doing that on scrap paper until I got to the size I wanted. Bravely casting-on I and knit the sweater. At the conclusion of the knitting, blocking and sewing I had a great piece, that by sheer luck, fit the boy. He looked so sweet in it with khakis and sandals.

Forge ahead to now (in reality only a few years later). My sister, JJ is having a baby boy in late July. I am sending her all of Boo-boo's baby items in an effort to be kind and reuse some of the lovely things we had. While sorting these things I found the above mentioned hooded sweater. Still in great condition and ready to have the ends woven in - but that's another story for another day. My brain in it's tired and overworked state thought, "Hey why don't you give the already knitted sweater to JJ for LG and knit a second for the new baby!"

I cast on and am doing just that. Here are some details:

Pattern: Hooded Sweater by Debbie Bliss from Special Knits
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Country Blue
Needles: US 8 Bamboo Circular
Started: April 13, 2008

Even though these sweaters were knit 3 years apart, the colors match perfectly! Thank heavens for no-dye lot yarns! Hopefully we will get photos of these sweaters for all to see.

Check List

2008-04-13T13:23:00.007-04:00

Keep plugging away at Roza's Take Two Socks.
Check.

Eat Lunch.
Check.

Finish Curly's Baby Shrug.
Check.

Head right to yarn shop for more yarn to make a hooded sweater from Special Knits by Debbie Bliss.
Check.

I appear to have my priorities in order. So on to some serious knitting. It seems everyone I know is having a baby! Oh a scary thought, I know. But it's good for me because I can knit some cutie-pa-tootie baby items in no time flat. Not to mention the cost is easy on the check book.

So here is a baby shrug I knit for someone near and dear to my heart. We'll call her Curly for the sake of Internet anonymity. This pattern is from Simply Baby by Debbie Bliss. If you know me at all, you know that I have been a fan of Debbie's since I first began knitting. This is especially true of her baby designs. They are classic and seem so simple. Yet, anyone who has knit them knows they are not. So when I had to come up with a quick gift, viola, Debbie comes through in a pinch. Here are some details:

Pattern: Baby Shrug from Simply Baby by Debbie Bliss
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Merino Aran in Chocolate Brown
Needles: US 8 Bamboo Circular for the body and US 7 Bamboo Circular for the cuffs
Started: April 4, 2008
Finished: April 12, 2008
Notes: First, I substituted yarn, though in the Aran and Debbie Bliss lines. The pattern calls for two balls to complete a 3-6 month size. Slight fib there (unless of course the Cashmerino Aran has more yardage than the Merino Aran, which in all honesty, I have not verified). This necessitated a return trip to the yarn shop for a third ball. Other than some risky business picking up stitches along the edges, this shrug went off without a hitch. Quick, easy and cute.

Now for the new baby project I mentioned earlier. My sister JJ is coming to visit and bringing her kids! Aunt Trixie is all a jitter for this visit because sister is very pregnant and having a little boy! Yea! I have already knit the sweater once for my Boo-boo and will give it to her for her oldest son. Now I can knit a second one that matches for the new son! Personally, I'm not into the dressing the kids alike thing, but sister is. So I hope this will make her very happy.

Roza's Take Two

2008-04-11T12:04:00.000-04:00

This year on RM's side we drew names for the Holidays. I received some lovely yarn from my brother in law. His wife is a dedicated knitter and knew just how to gently guide him in his purchase. It is Artyarns Ultramerino4 in colorway #136. I never would have guessed that this color combination would be enjoyable, but oh my it is!

I ~~delayed~~ thought long and hard about what to knit with this gorgeous stuff. Obviously socks were the choice of the day, but which pattern? Nothing seemed to fit. Once I find a pattern I like, I have re-knit it in the past. So why not again? The Roza's are my current favorite and get lots of wear.

I started these back in March. Using my trusty Addi Turbo US#1 circular needle I am slowly chipping away at them. They tend to get a few rows completed each day during my lunch. We have a group of ladies who sit in the Library and knit during the first half hour of our lunch and then we go eat. Logistically, a completion date is far and away.

I am not knitting at home so much because of the big project I have been working on. It's very exciting and we are looking forward to a reveal sometime in August. RM has been big help. He has made some major contributions and will be given much credit in the end. So keep watching. . . the end is near.

How It Adds Up

2008-02-16T10:35:00.004-05:00

Housework - um, none is getting done. This summer I would wake up, drink my coffee and begin the day. By making beds, straightening the bathroom and making sure all the dishes are done; I felt that my day was off to a productive start. I could begin. Well, now it's not up to me to do these things as I am up earlier than any normal human should be and out the door soon there after. When I get home no beds are made. No bathroom is straightened up. No dishes are done. In fact, cupboard doors are left standing open (detest this). Beds have not been made since the first day back to school after Holiday break . . . uh, that was four plus weeks ago by the way. And dishes, with morning milk are still on the table! BTW - half the cereal is gentle strewn all over the floor in no clear pattern. A nice touch, don't you think?

Now I go blissfully along all day, not thinking of these things. They do not cross my mind. I am working, being productive and earning my meager salary. Why then, the minute I walk in the door and see these wonderful "gifts" the boys have left me do I instantly go insane?

So let's find a few positives, shall we? I have a few projects that are in the works. Two I can tell about, one is top secret that I will only tease you with right now. So, first up is a project I have literally been working on for five years. Beginning two generations ago, women in my family have been crafting hand made felt socks for Christmas (yes, this must be one of the last 2007 Christmas posts!). Each one with oodles of pieces, sequins and the tiniest damned beads I have ever seen. With the birth of each new child, a new Christmas sock is begun and, ideally, finished. The socks sparkle in the lights and my kids just love them. Since we all know I can begin anything, I began this sock five years ago when Boo-boo Bear was just a wee cub. Well, let's just say I am pacing myself, as it is still not finished. But we got close enough that he could use it this year! The back is sewn on at 11 pm Christmas Eve. When Boo-boo flew down in the morning he was tickled pink! Until he noticed that his name was not on the sock . . . so being groggy and really tired from late night sewing and wrapping I did the only thing I could do . . . I made up a big fat story! See, Santa came while I was sewing and told me he was on a tight schedule and HAD to deliver the goods now, so even if the sock wasn't done, up on the mantle it had to go. It was either that, or no goodies in the sock. Yes, not a big lie, but a lie no the less. In the end my son was very happy, so who am I to judge? The sock is now put away until next Christmas when I will pull it out and attempt to embroider his name on the top. Beginning good, endings . . .

The second is a treat I am working on for myself. This little beauty is Juliet from the great ladies at Zephyr. It is a quick knit that I am itching to finish. There is a slight snag with not purchasing enough yarn, but I will overcome. I must tell you about Zephyr's spectacular customer service. Since planning ahead is ingrained in every fiber of my being . . . anyone who knows me realizes that that statement is a complete and utter fib . . . I clearly ordered the pattern ahead of time. We all know I did not order ahead. We were leaving on an 8 hour drive to ski and I wanted to take it with me. I ordered two days before we left and my paypal showed the monies had been transferred, but I had not received the pattern yet. Zephyr's website clearly states it could take a few days after the money is transferred. But I was desperate, as eight hours in a car with all RM's buddies would drive me bananas; I needed something to occupy my time. So I Sarah and Rachel an e-mail pleading for mercy. After explaining my situation, these lovelies sent the pattern straight up! I had it within an hour of the e-mail and in plenty of time to run and buy the yarn before we left later that day. These gals saved my sanity. Thank you Sarah & Rachel! Normally I like to knit with all natural yarns. But in my desperate state I wandered from wool, alpaca and the other lovelies to *gasp* acrylic and soy. It was all I could get my hands on in the color I liked at 5 pm on a Friday. But it seems to be knitting up nicely and is very soft. The yarn is Bernat 50% soy/50% Acrylic in the color they call Sugar Cane. The Zephyr girls give you two options with this sweater, a cropped version and a longer, hip length version. Because the cropped version has the garter stitch ending right in the middle of the chest area and my chest area has been blessed by two rather larger "friends", I am opting to go with the longer version. I feel this will be more flattering to me. So knit on!

Now for the "secret" project . . . well, I have a partner in crime and when it's all done, I think it will be spectacular!

Begin - Again and Again and Again?

2008-01-07T22:11:00.000-05:00

I have been toying with a few posts for a while . . . OK more than a month . . . but just couldn't get my thoughts in order. I would begin, really enthusiastic about my topic, knitting and life in general. Then something would side track me (usually RM with some type of ache or pain - he's been sick). So the post would go by the wayside. Tomorrow I will post, I promised myself. Now, tomorrow came and went, and guess what . . . still no stinkin' post! The next week was here and I began again. Not really enjoying the post I started from last week, I began again. Wait, now I am bushed because work is kicking my arse. Whomever thought I could jump right back into full time work after 5 years off was loco. Oh, wait that was me. So instead of posting, I slept for two weeks. Well not really, but it just seems that way. A month or so passes and still no post. Really nice blogging friends begin to e-mail me about my whereabouts. I don't even have the energy to respond - bad friend that I am.

But my guilt is killing me, so finally I post. I get my lazy butt to the computer to set something out.
What to I write about?
Where do I begin?
It seems I can't remember the beginning, middle and right now don't want to know the end. All drafts seem frivolous and nonsensical that I can't bring myself to look at them. So I have begun, yet again. Begun to blog about knitting, life, skiing, running, kids and whatever else I damn well please. Mainly the knitting part, because it seems that's all I know. So watch for me!

Birthday Wishes

2007-11-20T21:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to the best lurker I know!

PS ~ your a great brother-in-law, a super dad and obviously really good at making babies, since she's knocked up again! Do we need to have the "talk," so you know exactly how these things happen?

All kidding aside, you are the best and we at Trixie's house send you only the happiest birthday wishes.

Actual Knitting is Being Done

2007-10-23T18:50:00.000-04:00

I have cast on for RM's Christmas socks. These are done in Nature Spun 100% wool and the color is blueberry. Now, I am not afraid to blog about them, because honestly, RM doesn't read my blog. At. All. And I am ok with that.

The pattern is made up as I go along. Beginning with a figure 8 cast-on, then 2 x 2 ribbing and a short row heel, I may end with a complete sock. How simple. Did I mention that this yarn is a worsted weight, so they are going F.A.S.T.

Now on to something I should have blogged about a long time ago. These were RM's socks from last Valentine's Day. They are knit with two different toe up styles. The one on the right is with Wendy's generic recipe. The one on the left was with knit picks two at once pattern. Definitely like Wendy's recipe best of the two. Because of my experiment with the cast on's, each toe is different and the toe stripes don't match. I worked hard to get these socks to stripe the same. Even the heels match (using a short row heel). There is a better photo here. Note that these were for Valentines day, but I never even started them until after the darned holiday and finished them well into March. But RM likes them and often takes them when we go up to Boyne Mountain. An added bonus is I did not finish them until after the 52 Pair Plunge started - so they count!

And . . . only 442 bloglines left to read!

PS ~ if you left the comment about my simple wrapover, I would love to e-mail you a photo and exchange tips, so please leave your e-mail address.

929 Bloglines to Read

2007-10-15T17:59:00.000-04:00

OMG! A lot has happened without me in the past few weeks.

929 bloglines about knitting. . .do we really not have anything else to do in our lives?

I certainly hope we don't. Reading these lovely blogs about knitting, life and simple pleasures are my way of slowing down the hectic whirlwind that I call life. The beauty of words and photos mixed with glimpses into a stranger’s life are exciting. My day ends with the anticipation of perusing these glimpses, making me very happy. Capping my day off right, so to speak. Therefore, I am going to take my time and read through each one, reading slowly so to enjoy the loveliness each blog possesses.

Though commenting may be a little tough. It seems my little brain only has so many words it can spew forth in a semi-coherent manner on any given day. Commenting on one or two is difficult enough, but over 50 a day?! Gees, who do you think I am? Wonder woman?!**

**The visual of me wearing the skimpy costume, the sexy boots and the gold wrist bands while knitting and reading blogs seems hysterical to me at this moment. What do you think?

Roza Sock Done

2007-10-09T05:15:00.000-04:00

Pattern: Roza's Socks from IK's Spring '07 Issue by Grumperina
Yarn: Rio De La Plata Yarns Merino Sock in Quartz pink - confetti - dry rose
Needles: US 1 Addi Lace Circular
Started: July 10, 2007
Finished: September 21, 2007
Notes: Very classic pattern. It also taught me how to use the figure 8 cast-on. This cast on has now become my favorite. I had added an additional repeat, but found the results odd (that's being delicate). So I went back to a basic rule . . . trust the pattern. I followed it to a "t" and now have a beautiful pair of socks. The yarn is scrumptious. All I can say is "I want more!"

I Believe!

2007-10-08T14:45:00.000-04:00

Ten Things I believe:

1. Getting a job seriously cuts into knitting and blogging time.
2. Running is a great way to blow off steam.
3. Blogging friends are the best! Examples are here and here to name only a few.
4. High School is tougher than I remember. Yea, I did graduate some 20+ years ago. But Soccer Chica is just beginning the High School experience. . . and all I can say is WOW!
5. If I could main line coffee each morning, I would.
6. You must set time aside time to knit if you want any completed items.
7. My husband can't make a bed to save his life.
8. Roza socks do eventually get finished (I promise to post details later - when I find all the time I have lost over the past month *insert hysterical laughter*).
9. Summer comes to an end way too soon.
10. I truly believe in the Keyboard Fairy! Thank you oh so much, you know who you are. Cough, cough "lurker!" Cough, cough.

Now if I could only find the house cleaning fairy . . .

Special Days

2007-10-06T10:37:00.000-04:00

Pooh Bear, I remember . . .

Weinterruptthisregularlyscheduledprogram

2007-08-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

Wearecurrentlyhavingkeyboarddifficultyduetoabottled
waterincident.Mybottleofwater
thoughitwouldbefunto"mate"withthekeyboard.
Theygottoegther,thenthewaterleft/
mykeyboardheartbrokenandhalfaman.

Pleasebepatientwithme.

Canyouguesswhichkeyswereaffected?

Fashionably Late

2007-08-20T18:00:00.000-04:00

Well, I am fashionably late to just about everything. Tennis players receive 15 minute "grace period" or default time before the match is called for no-show. RM calls my constant lateness my "default-time." Mom says I could be late to my own funeral. So, naturally we usually plan accordingly. People expect me to be late.

So here I am telling you much later . . . I got my invite to Ravelry! Well, I really received a month ago, but have been secretly working on it since then. Still a work in progress, but I am loving all the options available.

Pssst. Can I tell you a secret? I am relieved to have everything in one spot. Honestly? I have spread sheets for needles, stash yarn, completed projects and queued projects. Add in a three ring binder with photos and short notes about each project and we have a lot of information ~~hid~~ spread all over the house. But I could not keep everything organized or up to date. Too much work in too many damn places. So Ravelry is really working for me. Gone are the spreadsheets (but not the binder, I kinda like it) freeing up my time to knit or play on the Internet with my other knitting friends.

And to be even later to the party, I also have a flickr account now! Finally. So when I can figure out how to get links in my sidebar to each of these sites, I'll let you know.

Hey, does anyone know how to get certain keys on the keyboard to work after 1/2 a bottle of water is spilled on it? They worked this morning right after the spill incident. Help *** the delete button won't work! ***

Yarn Peaks

2007-08-15T11:47:00.000-04:00

Casting on for my Habu Jacket was interesting. So far, I am enjoying this knit. The stainless steel makes the yarn extremely fun to work with. Right now, the novelty of knitting something with metal is engaging me more than a typical yarn would.What I find truly unique is that the yarn can be molded (due to the stainless steel component), by which I mean you can sculpt or pull (gently) on the fabric and it remains exactly where you put it. How amusing it is to have a sweater with little bumps all over it (almost like peaks) and not have had to knit a single bobble or do anything fancy. I have to laugh at the thought of making two peaks right in the middle of my back. . . you wouldn't be able to tell if I was coming or going! And, if later you want a smooth jacket, just gently stretch the fabric back into shape. How clever is that!

Roza socks are at a stand still. I ripped them out, began again, and asked for my mulligan. My calculations were a bit off and I could not get the foot to work out correctly. Very tight, very, very tight fitting. Which I considered odd because I cast on more stitches than the pattern required. It has to do with how many stitches I used for heel vs. top of foot (more in heel, less on foot) which didn't compute for me. My math skills weak. Let's just say if I were to play this game, I would definitely be on the loosing end. Now, I am following the pattern word for word. If they are too small for me. . . I'll give them as a gift. Yet, my heart longs for them to fit. The yarn is splendid and the pattern is simple and classy.

We spent the weekend between a charity Pro-Am tennis tournament and Fall Futbol Frenzy tournament. RM has been organizing this tournament for 19 years, raising a total of over $95,000 for scholarships. This year was another fun year. I am proud of his commitment to charity works, but do not hesitate to tell you that by Sunday he is exhausted. The soccer was great with Soccerchica's team taking second place overall. She played super, even in 97 degree heat!

I need to send out a "Happy Birthday" to JJ. She celebrated her birthday over the weekend. You can check out her blog at Mum's the Word.

New Socks - Roza's

2007-08-07T11:39:00.000-04:00

I have cast on for Grumperina's Roza's Sock from IK Spring '07. Initially I had concerns that the width might not be right for me. I have an 8.5 size shoe, with the ball of my foot being 9 inches around. This pattern says that they are 6 inches around unstretched. In my simple mind, I am feeling that as written the socks would knit up too small for me. So instead of casting on the 60 stitches as directed I added another 6 stitches (or one repeat) to help conquer the width issue. Let's see how this works out. . .

There Is Yarn In Arizona!

2007-08-03T07:53:00.000-04:00

Yea, even wool!

Here is what I scored while there. Very pleased with myself, if I do say so.

Some beautiful Rio de Plata 100% kettle dyed merino wool. A very nice yarn that does not seem to split or felt as I knit with it, making me a happy knitter. This little beauty came from a small shop in Phoenix called, aptly, Phoenix Knit & Needlepoint Co. Sadly, they do not have a website. About 60% of the shop was devoted to needlepoint and the yarn selection was limited. But I spied this cutie and had to have it. My yarn cake is already well on it's way to becoming a pair of Roza's socks from IK Spring '07. So far this pattern is a joy to knit. I am attempting a small modification to the size. My feet are an 8.5 and 9 inches around the ball of my foot, so a size 7-8 might not fit me. I'll let you know how this turns out. I'm turning the heel now.

Oh, it gets better my pretties . . .

What you say?! Take a look, it can't be denied.

Just a little Habu 100% cashmere that is hand-dyed!

Yea, uh huh, I'm a lucky gal (if you could see me I do have my thumbs in my ears with fingers waving back and forth in true na-na-na-na-boo-boo style). Oh, did I mention these came with a free pattern for a scarf? Why yes, yes they did. So three little cashmere scarves it is. One for Heidi (as a thank you for putting up RM & Boo-boo during Tri-athalon weekend), one for SIL and one for me (very unselfishly, of course).

And, drum roll please . . . .

My big preezie for the trip. The Habu Textiles kit #48. A wonderful jacket that will look great with a skirt or jeans. This kit has two lovely cones of steel wrapped in wool and one large cone of silk. Yummmmy! Though the photo shows grey, it's really a green with heavy grey undertones. My photography skills are still developing or the camera is slightly color blind - you choose. Truth? For the price this jacket better be all that and a bag of chips. You know the really flavorful, salty, high fat, straight to your hips kind of chips.

I am a very, very lucky girl indeed.

Marigold's Finished

2007-08-01T10:09:00.000-04:00

These popped up in my sock garden a few weeks ago. Aren't they fun?!

This pattern is easily one of my favorites. Clearly written, you can fly through these in a few days. The repeat is easily memorized, so I didn't have to carry the pattern with me (a big plus in my teenager/pre-schooler filled world). It was not necessary, nor did I want to make any modifications to this pattern. Sizing was dead on for me and once we get some fall/sock weather these will be on my feet!

I see another pair or two of Marigold's in my future. Next time, I think I will use a slightly more solid color way instead of one with so many different colors. My thought being the ever changing colors are obscuring a lovely pattern, which I would prefer to see more of.

So here are the details for anyone who cares about what I do.

Pattern: Marigold Socks by Pamela Wynne of Flint Knits fame
Yarn: Hill Country's Sweetfeet in Shasta Daisy.
Needles: Addi Lace US2 Circular
Started: June 10, 2007
Finished: July 11, 2007

So there we are . . . pair 10 of the 52 Pair Plunge!

On-Your-Toes Socks Finished

2007-07-30T10:27:00.000-04:00

Pattern: On-Your-Toes Socks by Ann Budd from IK Summer '07 issue
Yarn: Tofutsies - Partie colorway
Needles: US 2 Addi Turbo's Circular
Started: June 22, 2007
Finished: July 17, 2007
Notes: Note about photo, socks are really the same length. The light was funny that morning and that pose was the best that could be done. I had some serious trouble with the Middle-eastern wrap method of casting on. But found a super tutorial with detailed photos at the hello yarn blog. This made the whole thing much simpler to understand. Truth be told, I really like this method of casting on. No crochet hook or waste yarn to work with/carry around/muck up my knitting bag. Side note, the waste yarn always gets tangled around another WIP, no matter what I do. So to completely leave it out of the travel knitting bag is a welcome relief. Back to business, I also like the shape of the toe this cast on creates. It seems to me to be less pointy and more round in shape. I mentioned here that the toes seem very roomy. They are and it's ok with me. Once I got farther into the sock, things seem to hit my normal sizing and changing needles was not necessary. Summary, this is definitely a cast on method I will continue to use.

The yarn was more fun to work with that I expected. Since I gifted them the minute they came off my needles, I don't know how it is washing up. But while knitting it seems firm to work with, but created a nice soft fabric. In the simple ribbed pattern the colors looked great, with the yellow and grey making a nice pop of color in all the purples and pinks.

So all in all, I am happy with these and can count them in the 52 Pair Plunge.

What to Say?

2007-07-26T09:55:00.000-04:00

Caution ~ extremely long catch up post ahead. Missed you all and I am glad to be back!

Wow, can I get a fabulous guest blogger or what?! My big head is taking up most of my living room right now. Thank you JJ for the kind words, they left me speechless (which as anyone who has ever talked to me knows, can be virtually impossible).

A word about JJ. Don't let her fool you, she is kind hearted, emotional (in a good way), eloquent (check out her new blog, mum's the word if you don't believe me) and the best sister anyone could hope for. Though we haven't always seen eye to eye (understatement is strongly implied here), I will always loved her. BTW - She was not as naughty as she would have you believe . . . dealing with past grief in an uncomfortably tense situation is hard on anyone. I give her substantial credit for staying as cool as she did.

Like fish, family house guests begin to stink after a few days. I'm not certain that's how the saying goes, but it works for me. I'll be the first to say Arizona at 104 degrees, mom having surgery, mom's 70+ smotheringsignificant other, and a three hour time difference and hospital food all add up to Very. Stinky. Fish. Yet Mom is recovering nicely and life is returning to normal. Plus I got to see LG - a lot. I just love him and he never got stinky. His #@&! doesn't stink.

So on to some things I learned while in Arizona:

1. NEVER ride with 70+ people in a vehicle if you need to be somewhere fast. Standard driving speeds . . . 5 miles BELOW the speed limit. Yep, slow, rotting torture in a vehicle with minimal air conditioning.
2. You know it's truly not hot until you have sat on a porch drinking coffee at 6:30 am with temps already in the 80's . . . knowing it will get up to 104+ in only a few short hours.
3. Grass is a truly beautiful thing.
4. Tucson has a drug store on every corner - it's true.
5. When you want to go somewhere with my mom, start getting her ready two hours before so you will only be 20 minutes late.
6. You can get lots of knitting done while waiting in hospitals.
7. Some neuro-surgeons are really good looking.
8. Every house in Tucson is some shade of . . . brown. Call it brown, tan, beige, taupe, camel, whatever it's still all the same. No offense to any Arizona residents, I just couldn't believe all the brown.
9. If you are going to haul a baby from hotel to hospital some seven thousand times, a car seat bungee corded to a luggage cart makes an instant stroller. CJ, you saved our lives on that one.
10. Upon arriving home, my definition of clean and RM's definition of clean are two entirely different things.
11. All sorts of things can go amok at home when I was gone. Toilet repairs, water softener replacements, boards on deck broken/repaired, no-show sitter, truck dies - purchase new one (yea, you heard me right), and install surround sound in the living room. RM was a busy, busy man while I was away.
13. In Arizona there is no time during the course of 24 hours a can person run outside - it's just too damn hot.
12. Purls is a fabulous yarn shop! I did make some fabulous purchases.

Did I mention it was hot there?

In knitting news, I completed the Marigold socks, JJ's Jaywalkers and Mom's On-Your-Toes Socks. Sorting out all the photos I took is taking some time, so they should be posted in a few days.

It's good to be back in temperatures I can stand . . . by the way, it was hot there!

What have I done for her lately?

2007-07-17T21:29:00.000-04:00

Not enough, I can tell you that.

Hello, there! JJ here. For those of you who read Trixie's blog, you can frequently find me commenting on her posts. I am Trixie's younger sister (though she would be quick to tell you that most people cannot actually distinguish which of us is the eldest) and I have the distinct pleasure of being her "guest blogger". I really don't know what I did to earn this right, but here I am and I have lots to say.

My primary charge is to let you all know that Trixie is alive and well and will be back blogging with all of you very shortly. As you probably read in her last post, she took a trip to Arizona for a family member's surgery. I will let her divulge what she wishes regarding said surgery; but for now, suffice to say that it went well and the recipient is recooperating peacefully at home. I went to Arizona as well with my 11 month old in tow. Having an 11 month old while trying to care for a loved one in the Intensive Care Unit where babies are not allowed proved to be quite a challenge, but Trixie stepped up. Without her help, I would have done just as well to stay home. Thanks, Trixie.

My secondary duty is to show you the socks that Trixie made for me. (Please forgive the picture placement...I was lucky to figure out how to get the picture there at all!) I dropped as many hints on this blog as possible that I wanted those socks! I saw the Mountain Laurel yarn, seen in "Solid Gold Sweet Feet", and knew that I just had to have them. So what happened? Trixie stepped up. I don't know the pattern or needles she used and I don't know how long they took her, but I do know I. Love. Them! I vowed to wear them in Arizona despite the heat and I did just that! I had those socks on every day and boy, are they comfy!

Those are the things that Trixie asked me to share. And having done that, I can now share an observation of my own.

There are times in life that call you to be all that you are capable of being. This past week was one of those times for Trixie and me. It was a week where the things you do show who you really are and what your character is made of. I can tell you that my behavior left something to be desired, but ...you guessed it...Trixie stepped up.

Now, I am the sort of person who likes to help others. I'll open a door for a frustrated delivery man who can't get the door open. I pick trash up off the streets. I hold elevator doors. I will listen to the venting of my beloved sister. I enjoy giving gifts. But this past week, I was too involved in my own emotions and let them take control of me. But not Trixie. She did all of those things and many more despite going through hard emotions herself. She made volatile situations more calm. She showed who she really is and she can be proud. I know I am proud of her. She made me feel beter, she made me see things in a new perspective. She made me ...look bad! Just kidding. She demonstrated grace and an inner fortitude that I can only admire at this point. So, what have I done for her lately? I posted a blog when she didn't have access to a computer, and I hope that' s enough to tell her how very much I love her.

Balloons and a Short Trip

2007-07-05T23:12:00.000-04:00

Here is what we have been watching the last few mornings. They have gone directly over the house, which is beautiful but noisy. Who ever said balloons were quiet - lied. They go over our house at the ungodly hour of 7:00 am! I don't know about you, but after a late night, I want all the sleep I can get. Hearing those propane burners fire scares me awake faster than the third snooze on the alarm clock. So I am up, might as well take a few photos. Standing at the end of the dock, drinking my morning coffee I enjoyed the sights. The balloon festival was in Battle Creek this past week. Ours had several balloon launches/competitions, a carnival and an airshow.

Later in the evening we were having dinner with friends out on the deck and I heard the burners of this balloon. It came from the East and started to descend - close to our dock. Very close to our dock. Startled, cool, close to our dock. But it was fun because part of the competition tasks can be to touch down on the surface of the lake, which several did.

Well, I get to see this little man this weekend! Yea for me. You see, he is now walking and saying a few words and being as cute as a bug in a rug. Auntie Trixie will spoil, spoil, spoil him. He is the only little one coming along on our trip.

This leads me to the fact that I am going to Arizona for a few days. This is a trip I make alone to tend to some family health issues (I'll be bringing lots of rice cereal). Should I be excited to go to Arizona in July?! I'm thinking that January would have been a better time to plan a trip. Yet, this is really unforeseen and no manipulations of timing could be made. I will get to spend a good amount of time with JJ and her little man in the waiting rooms of the hospital, so we should get lots of knitting done.

I will try to post as I can. See you in a few days!

Helpful

2007-06-25T09:33:00.000-04:00

Why not just call it the figure 8 cast on? That I can search on Google. But a search for a tutorial on Middle East-wrap method of casting on was a big bust. The other night I seemed a little too groggy to follow the IK directions and need more help. Hello Yarn has, in my opinion, had more detailed directions here.

Very helpful indeed.

Donna, thank your for commenting the other day on my post about crabs. I wanted to answer your question about sizing, but was unable to link back to a blog for you. Not sure if it was late night woozies or blogger. So here is what I am doing about the size. After referring to the chart and doing a gauge swatch (reality, I measured the false start from last night before my dip in the frog pond), I am going to knit an Adult M at 8 sts per inch. Truth be told, like you I am a little worried about 72 stitches and the socks being too large. It makes me slightly dizzy just thinking about that many stitches . . . in 2x2 ribbing. My hope is that the ribbing will pull the sock snug to my foot making it all good. Never have I knit a sock at 72 stitches around. Yet I am choosing to forge ahead, trust the pattern (Ann Budd did write this one) and try my luck.

You know. . . now that I have posted that last sentence - I'm doomed.

The thing I enjoy about knitting is that it is fluid, always changing during the process. My knitting tends to be really fluid - as in too-many-trips-to-the-frog-pond-fluid. So Donna, for the short version, trust the pattern and try it at 8 inches. If it doesn't work, take a dip in the frog pond and start over. The water's fine, I've already been in.

PS ~ Mine are knitting up roomy (to say the least) in the toe and instep. But after I studied the photo for a few minutes, the socks pictured seem roomy and loose in the same area. If this continues up the leg, I will have to change to smaller needles because I have skinny ankles.

Cast On - Smashed On

2007-06-22T00:41:00.000-04:00

Ok. So I'm giving the IK Summer 07 Middle-East-wrap method of casting on a try. For my first attempt, not too bad. I say first attempt because I am not totally happy with my work. Bumps, a hole and the M1 left and right are reversed - I think?! Anywho, I am starting over.

First, I am going to bed . . . it's 12:52 am (hence the crappy flash photo). Finally . . . I feel sleepy. It's said that lack of sleep can cause one to make careless errors. So what's my excuse when I am well rested?!

PS - so far, I love the yarn!

Sweet dreams.

Jr. Whitby

2007-06-21T14:44:00.000-04:00

Pattern: Whitby from Knitting on The Road by Nancy Bush
Yarn: Louet Gems Sport Weight 100% Merino Wool in Pewter
Needles: US 2 Addi Turbo's Circular
Started: June 6, 2007
Finished: June 21, 2007
Notes: I knit them toe-up because it was left over yarn from the adult Whitby's I did earlier. To get the size right, I had to slightly modify the cable and cuff.

Note ~ These are modeled by recipient, who had to be bribed with computer time to hold still for photos. When asked if he liked them I got a mumbled "yea, uh-huh." Well . . . "mumble, mumble, mumble!?"

Crabs and Shrimp

2007-06-18T14:23:00.000-04:00

But no melted butter. On Sundays, RM and I will have a crab boil with gobs of melted butter. My little slice of heaven (unless you count the tequila with a beer chaser, but that's another thing all together). We eat and eat until it's uncomfortable. Naturally, I always have a stomach ache the next day. Could it be the shots of melted butter I tend to take with each bite of crab? Possibly.

So when I saw this yarn, I had to buy it. This Tofusies yarn was purchased during a trip to Threadbender in Grand Rapids (sorry, I couldn't find a website, so no link). My thought is to make a simple pair of k2, p2 rib socks with it. I have been reading Ann Budd's toe up article in IK's summer issue. Very different cast on method (for me) and a new way to do short rows have piqued my interest. But I already have four socks on my needles, so this will have to wait until I get a pair or two complete.

I Fought The Addi's

2007-06-14T18:07:00.000-04:00

And the Addi's won.

Yea, Pamela guessed it. I broke down and purchased a size US1 Addi lace circular needle. With all of the press I have read regarding said needles I had to try them for myself. Here is my take:

1. Yes, the joins are super. Gotta give it to the Skacel folks, the joins are smooth as silk. No catching or snagging here.

2. The magenta cord is easier to see. It is bright and makes me smile. An added bonus is this cord seems to be very flexible, more so than the originals. Another two checks in the positive column. Since I ~~primarily~~ (who am I kidding? I have never knit any large lace projects) always use circular needles for magic-loop method to knit socks; I am very glad that the cord is so supple.

3. The needle portions are brass with a coating of resin. Ummm, I think I prefer the original nickel to the coated brass. Something about the brass seems to catch or grate on a minute level when the needles rub against one another. Upon further reading of other blog posts, apparently this is called drag. Well, I do not love it . . . but can live with it.

4. They are S.H.A.R.P. I have the hole in my finger to prove it. Apparently, I am a "pusher," meaning I push the needles back through when finishing a stitch instead of using more of a wrist action. While knitting and watching a tennis lesson today, I poked a hole right through the skin of my index finger. Ouch. I am taking a break from knitting for a few days and letting it heal. How the hell am I supposed to sit through LM's three tennis lessons and a golf lesson without my knitting?

Overall, I am pleased with the needles. Being $14.00 a pop, I had better be, right?

Bright, Sunshiny Day

2007-06-11T19:12:00.000-04:00

I cast Marigold on last night during my shift at our local Hospice residence (I volunteer to answer phones on Sunday nights - it's very quiet). The yarn color way is Shasta Daisy that I first mentioned here. So fun to knit with! Now we can really say I stopped to smell the flowers! Don't you love how the colors seem to "pop"? As with the Mountain Laurel color way, when there is a change from the green, a very fun color appears only for a stitch or two. This intrigues me to no end; I look forward to these fleeting stitches on each round.

The Marigold pattern is clearly written. Pamela left no stone unturned and gives alternate directions for smaller and larger sizes. Kudos to her! So many sock patterns only give you one size, expecting you to know what/how to make adjustments for an alternate size. If you are like me, something like that can be impossible to fathom (my mind is really very simple). The lace chart she includes is clean and easy to memorize, but still gives you enough change to keep you enthralled with this knit (don't fret, she also writes out the directions for those who don't like charts!). All in all, I can't wait for my Marigolds to finish "growing."

I also have a new purchase showing in the photo. Any guesses on what it is?

Whew!

2007-06-09T20:48:00.000-04:00

I knit more of JJ's Jaywalkers. The leg is almost finished, so things are moving along nicely. Since I'll be seeing JJ is July, my plan is to hold on to them and personally deliver the goods. This will be especially poignant, as she will be receiving them mid-summer . . . while in Arizona. My guess is they will not get worn during our visit.

Today was a milestone for me. I finished my first 10K running race! Will I do another? You bet! It was fun, a gorgeous morning and I finished almost 15 minutes faster than anticipated. Yea.

Upon my quest to be thin, the 10K race was a goal I set for myself. Originally, I thought that the training for this race would get me to my target weight. Well, let's just say, I am 24 pounds shy of the 30 pounds lost goal. But I can now run for 56+ minutes straight. Live and learn.

Knock, Knock . . .

2007-06-07T11:37:00.001-04:00

Who's there?

Trixie.

Trixie Who?!

I know that is what you are saying to yourself right about now. Please know I am sorry for the "slight" delay between postings. Suffice to say, we have been busy around here.

I have started a few socks. Want to see pictures? Good, because here they are.

The sock on the right is a Rainy Day Sock, by Yuliya Sullivan from Magknits. I am using RYC Cashsoft DK in Shade 509. These are knit on bamboo dpn's US #4. The foot came out slightly shorter than I anticipated, so these will make a super gift for someone with say, a size 7 foot. I am loving the picot edge - all very lady like.

The sock on the left is a Jaywalker by Grumperina from Magknits. These are knit with Hill Country Yarns Sweet Feet line in Mountain Laurel (first mentioned here, here and a vague reference here) on Addi Turbos US 1 (or 2, I'm not certain, as I took a slight break and neglected to write certain, necessary details down - oops). I do know that the cuff and leg are knit for the larger size, but the foot is knit in the smaller size. It is my experience that this method makes for a nice fit on my foot. Since most everyone has knitted this sock in the past, you may or may not have found it to work for you. It is my hope that JJ enjoys this type of fit too, as it's too late now.

These are my version of a Junior Whitby for Boo-boo. Jr. Whitby is knit in the left over Louet Gems that I did my Whitby's in. The color is pewter and I love it. Needles are Addi Turbos, US 2. Too sappy to have matching mom & son socks? Yea, I thought so too. But I. Don't. Care. My reality - I don't have the space for a large stash (there was a substantial amount left) and this takes up room I could use for new yarn. On the up side, Boo-boo is not in love with them. So, Jr. Whitby's may morph into matching Auntie Trixie and nephew socks.

These were my peonies that bloomed this year. Pooh bear (my dad) helped me plant them a few summers back. In my opinion, peonies are one of the loveliest flowers of all. The colors and scent send me. My feeling to knit something in the exact color of this peony can not be denied much longer. Maybe I'll knit some Marigold's. Think how sweet my feet would be, especially if I used Sweet feet yarn!

Oh that last bit was bad - sorry.

Last minute addition - JJ, in no way is my vague post about Jaywalkers and Yeti sizes inferring that you have large feet. I frogged the yeti sized one and re-knit it. Your Jaywalkers will fit your really on the small side, normal, human, sized feet perfectly.

Zippo Knitting

2007-05-27T10:36:00.000-04:00

I have been distracted by the beautiful iris that are in full bloom.
My neighbor (always my neighbor) has oodles of these around her home. The colors are simply stunning. I put some serious effort out there to capture just the right color. Nothing seemed to work so I ended up using a flash to get the purple "just right." I'm close, but the photo really doesn't do the flowers justice. These blooms had to be a large as my hand, if not bigger. No kidding.

I have some sock yarn mentioned here, that is very close to these colors, though slightly muted. I was coveting it for a pair of socks for myself. Well, JJ left me such a beautiful comment about my weird things, that I couldn't help but think this yarn should be made into something for her. It is my sincere hope that everyone has the opportunity to have someone as special as JJ in their life. She is truly a lifting spirit and gift from the heavens (note ~ she is the eloquent, sentimental, thoughtful one of the two sisters, I on the other hand am the potty mouthed, goofy, forgetful one). Plus she did mention, oh so subtly, that she would cherish a pair of socks out of said yarn.

Decision made. JJ, the yarn is yours. Love ya.

Camera/Computer - One

2007-05-23T14:01:00.000-04:00

Ding bat using computer - zero.

There are no crushes or jealous rebellions between the computer, the camera and the mp3. The huge problem is with the connection between chair and key board. Trixie, push the darn memory stick completely into the port and all will proceed as planned. Enough said.

So here is a useless picture of my knitting (that I couldn't post) at the conference track meet last week. Enjoy!

These socks are still in the design-work-out-the-kinks mode. So I can't give you a full photo yet. Let's just say my notes were less than clear.

I have started a pair of Jaywalkers, but not really loving how they are coming along. It's not the designer's fault, I am knitting them too large. A yeti could wear them and still have toe-wiggle room. Can we all say gauge square?! Lesson learned.

Tag, I'm It

2007-05-21T23:22:00.000-04:00

I was tagged by Holly. Thank you, by the way (it was my first time). Well, 7 weird things about me. Hmmmm?! JJ, since I know you read this, don't bust me out with any others!

1. I sleep with my feet hanging off the end of the bed. They point straight to the ground, as if I was standing up . . . only I am laying face down. . . in my bed. I can't sleep well otherwise. Not sure what else to say about it.

2. I love fluffer-nutters! OK, now it's not what you think. It's a toasted peanut butter and marshmallow sandwich with gobs of artery clogging real butter. If you love 'em like I do, you understand that the creaminess of the peanut butter and the melty-fun of the marshmallow are pure heaven. CJ (lurking, non-knitter, husband of sister), have JJ make you one, she knows how. Dee-lish!

3. I have a band-aide phobia. Can't. Stand. Them. Don't even keep 'em in the house. I have been known to run to the store to buy a box of band-aide's for a cut (on the kids, I refuse to put them on my body) and then throw the remainder of the box immediately in the trash. Something about band-aides gives me the heebie-jeebies. RM has to remove them from the kids because once used, I won't go near it. I guess any career in medicine is probably not up my alley. BTW - I have a little sister who loved them! She used to put them all over her body and would ask for boxes of them as presents. Weird.

4. Wet, used napkins on a dinner plate piss me off.

5. I hate to admit this one, but . . . I . . . was . . . wait for it . . . in a pageant. No not a beauty pageant, a SCHOLARSHIP pageant. Cough, cough, hack and hack. I still have the gown, hoop skirt and all. That tells you how long ago it was. But that's all I will say. You don't hear mumbling about no talent, corrupt judging and inefficient, self applied make-up. I am not bitter, really.

6. I wanted to be in a rock and roll band, lead singer to be exact. American Idol would have taken me in a minute, I just knew it (if Idol was around then). But when the Jr. High choir director tells you, "You're not really getting the correct note/pitch thing. Just move your lips for the last concert and I'll give you an A." Uh, call me crazy, but don't you think it's a subtle clue that singing might not be for me? Yet Boo-boo still asks for me to sing him "Hush Little Baby" every night. Oh, love is deaf.

7. I can swim for hours. Really, I can. Running hurts like hell. Exercise sucks. But some how swimming just comes easily to me. Pool swimming is like meditation. Lap after glorious lap always clears my head.

So if your still here, haven't been tagged by this already. Join the fun. Please feel free. Sarah, that could be you!

Grand Rapids Knitting

2007-05-18T10:04:00.000-04:00

Between last Sunday and next Sunday, I will have made five trips to the beautiful city of Grand Rapids. GR is a great city, that I always like to visit. But damn that trip is long. Not once did/will I have the opportunity to visit a yarn shop. I really enjoy my visits to City Knitting. But alas, I am unable. With all the soccer games (besides yarn and skiing, why else would I drive that far?!) in Caledonia I just won't have the time. Unless someone can recommend a yarn shop south of the city?

Not sure what this post is really about. I had some decent pictures of me knitting at a track meet (in Rockford). But my computer and my camera's memory stick are in a big tiff right now. Obviously one is not speaking to the other. Why? Not sure. Maybe my camera is jealous that I am using my mp3 just a little too much. Loading music into the mp3 is keeping me preoccupied lately. I guess the "green-eyed monster" can strike anywhere, anytime. But for now, I can't show you the pictures. Jealousy sucks.

PS ~ Maybe my computer is totally in love with it's new mistress, the mp3, and wants nothing to do with the old stand-by camera any more. Just a thought.

Solid Gold Sweet Feet

2007-05-15T11:47:00.000-04:00

New yarn came in the mail last week. With a Birthday, the 5th Third Bank Run, a soccer tournament and Mother's Day thrown into a five day span, there just wasn't time to blog about it. It is Sweet Feet Sock Yarn by Hill Country Yarns. The hank on the left is called Mountain Laurel with the lavender, green and cream colors. The hank on the right is Shasta Daisy with the yellow, green and white colors. Aren't they delicious? These are hand dyed yarns with nice intensity. One hank is approximately 400 yards, so I should easily get a pair of socks from each. Now the question is . . . what pattern to choose? I want to try Marigold when she gets the pattern done. Maybe a little patience on my part? Um, me patient? Riight. But because I fall in love with the pattern every time I see it, I will wait. Unless. . . she would like me to "test knit" it for her (note the shameless plug)?

This is my new love, and it makes me want to shake my groove thing. It also answers the eternal question, "At almost 40, are your grooves really just ruts in the road?" For me *pause* uh, yes they are ruts.

RM and the kids gave it to me for Mother's Day. It's already loaded with high tempo songs for running, cleaning and generally ignoring who is calling me. I am in awe of how light it is to carry. Once clipped to my pocket, I forgot it was even there . . . well, except for the music in my ears. Listening to adult-type music for pleasure is a luxury I had abandoned for the last five years because of all the early childhood music playing in our house.

So last night, after RM and Boo-boo went to bed, I stuck the earphones in, turned up the music and danced in my living room like no body's business. The neighbors probably thought I was nuts. As I tried to channel the Solid Gold Dancer in me, I did dishes, folded laundry and generally had a blast. It was a secret dream of mine, way back in the day, to be a Solid Gold Dancer. The hair, the costumes, the moves . . . all the rage almost *gulp* twenty years ago. Now, um, not so hot. Back then, I would have had at least one out of three - the hair.

Then reality ~~snuck~~ came crashing back in . . . RM caught me right in the middle of, what I thought, was a wicked move. Lot's of laughing, side holding and "Wait. Wait. Stop! I can't breathe!" came from his mouth. Needless to say, I won't be getting my groove on anytime soon. Unless I know they are completely asleep!

Birthday

2007-05-11T22:24:00.000-04:00

Five years ago, today . . .

One Day You'll be a Man

Darling baby, our pride and joy, I hold you close, my little boy. One day you will be a man, so let me cuddle you while I can. Your little hand grips mine tight, while you fight sleep with all your might. But I don't mind these wakeful hours, this time together that's all ours. When you're a man I'll hold your child, and remember this with a gentle smile. Because time goes by so terribly fast, let's take this time and make it last.

~ Author Unknown

Bikini Bottom - Complete

2007-05-09T09:18:00.000-04:00

Pattern: Generic Toe-up Recipe with short row heel
Yarn: Cider Moon's Glacier in Bikini Bottom
Needles: US 2 Addi Turbo's Circular
Started: April 30, 2007
Finished: May 9, 2007
Notes: I need to give more attention to my short rows. Instead of nice tight wraps, I end up with something more like eyelets. Any tips? I'll take 'em.

Sorry, blogger/my computer was being funny about posting pictures, so only half the post was originally published. Here is the rest . . .

Last night there was a beautiful storm. Thunder booming, lighting crashing and loss of power! Why do I sleep so well during the storms, but if Boo-boo rolls over (in his bed, in his room) I jump awake? But I am getting off the subject. Now the air smells so clean and good that I took a short walk. Here is a photo of some peonies I saw along the way. These are my neighbors and are almost ready to bloom. Ants just love the buds right now. Isn't it funny that ants and peonies need one another, yet I don't need ants in my kitchen?

Sand in my Swim Suit

2007-05-05T18:27:00.000-04:00

When I go to the beach, I like to have a large blanket to lay on because of the sand. I curse that prickling irritation called sand. Rinse and rinse (by the way, there is no lady like way of doing this), yet those pesky grains still won't escape my suit. They irritate me, not in a hurting stabbing sort of way, but in a slight uncomfortable sort of way that is just enough to drive me batty. Not until I am home and showered do I feel better. Yet, I love the beach and go back again and again.

Well, I am getting that same pesky irritated feeling about knitting these socks. Some plain toe-up socks, which I mentioned here and here are currently on my needles. I really, really like the yarn. It is probably one of the softest and lightest yarns I have ever worked with. Don't really, really like the color I purchased (love it in the hank and photos). To me, bikini bottom should bring to mind summer, sun and a funny yellow sponge with tube socks on. Separately, the colors are bright and cheery. I like them. When knitted, this color way brings to my mind algae. I'm not loving the way the toe is cute and striped (with defined color changes), but the foot and leg colors become indistinct? Each color seems to blend into the next, blurring and morphing into something that is making me slightly uncomfortable. Sort of like when there is sand my swim suit I can't shower away. But I continue to knit . . . just like I keep going to the beach.

Cider Moon produces a wonderful product and I will snap their yarn up again. Did I mention how soft it is? Or how light it is for a sport weight yarn? Or how, after a few reviews of the photo, it can kinda grow on you? Please understand that this is really a rant about my poor color choice/taste, not the yarn.

Note to self: Leave the bikini bottom (and top . . . big girls and bikini's don't mix) in the drawer. I'm going to hit the shower.

Not Much To Say

2007-05-02T20:13:00.000-04:00

I planted this Trillium two summers ago. Each year I anxiously look forward to it flowering and multiplying. Each year, RM mistakes it for a weed and almost mows it down. I out-smarted the mowing monster this time and used string and stakes to ring the Trillium.

Viola! We have flowers.

New sock yarn in just these colors is on it's way to me . . .

Bikini Bottom

2007-05-01T12:53:00.000-04:00

I started Nancy Bush's Friday Harbor sock from Knitting on the Road using the yarn purchased here. A lace pattern was not my best choice for this yarn, as the colors got muddled and unpleasing to my eye. Ripping what was started, I requested a do-over. After a short search for another pattern, a decision was made that this yarn should be a simple toe-up sock. My opinion is it will allow the colors to speak for them selves.

My dream: To wear a bikini on my world-class, rock hard body (even after two babies) and prance down the beach, hair blowing in the breeze, and turning heads.

My reality: Slug all the gear for two kids in my confining maillot with conservative cover-up through burning sand while hopping from foot to foot. All the while, yelling for kids to slow down, put on sun screen, don't go in the water yet, etc. Instead of hair blowing gloriously in breeze, my flabby arms would be jiggling from the hopping. Sure heads would turn . . . to hide their amusement and laughter.

Oh well, a girl can dream . . .

Baby Buds

2007-04-30T09:37:00.000-04:00

Pair number five . . .

Pattern: Baby Buds by Trixie's Stix
Yarn: Knit Picks Essential Solid in Petunia and some (hush - don't say a word) white dk acrylic from inherited stash.
Needles: US 1 Addi Turbo's Circular
Started: April 19, 2007
Finished: April 29, 2007
Notes: Easy, quick and cute!

I'll post the pattern if you’re interested.

Life seems to get in the way of knitting these days. Geesh, you would think that by this time life would know better! What with trying to take care of mom's house, watch RM finish a 1/2 marathon, decide which school to send Boo-boo to for kindergarten, get ready for garage sale, drive to Grand Rapids for soccer games and track meets, neglect house work, and finish my lawn maintenance you would think I could squeeze in a little time for, oh I don't know . . . a shower/change of clothes and some knitting. Uh, yea.

Whitby

2007-04-25T22:07:00.000-04:00

Sock number four . . .

Pattern: Whitby from Knitting on the Road by Nancy Bush
Yarn: Louet Gems Sport Weight 100% Merino Wool in Pewter
Needles: US 2 Addi Turbo's Circular
Started: April 20, 2007
Finished: April 25, 2007
Notes: I knit the leg 1/2" longer than recommended.

Now that I used the correct weight yarn, I love these socks. I need to mention that this yarn is yummy and I will knit with it again. Though, maybe a brighter color would be fun.

Note about pattern . . . it's lovely! Very easy to commit to memory, so no need to tote around a book or pattern notes. The socks are comfy to wear, with no irritation (you know the rubbing and such) from the cables. I will say that the diamond pattern does, in my lowly opinion, make my ankles lean toward the larger side. Overall a super pattern.

Please note that sexy, pasty, tree trunk of a leg was not meant to show, but the sock decided to cooperate, so we sacrificed showing of ugly leg for sake of fair sock photo.

Electric Wiggle Sock Debut

2007-04-24T09:33:00.000-04:00

See the yarn sheepishly peeking out from behind the candle? It doesn't want you to know that it has been knit up as sock a, sock b and sock c. A little awkward for it, to say the least. The yarn wants to be socks and does not want to fight with me anymore. It yearns to stop splitting, knitting at odd tensions, and jumping off needles at random moments (you know, like when laying untouched inside a knitting bag). Due to this change of heart, the yarn is pleased to announce that it will be cooperating from here on out. Having let me knit one complete sock, that I am calling the Electric Wiggle, we are now ready to begin the second. No longer will it fight me every step of the way. I have a feeling that knitting the second sock should be a breeze.

The yarn is content.

I will be content.

What I Did Over The Weekend

2007-04-23T23:30:00.000-04:00

A 5K that only took me 31:40 from start to finish (the longest 31:40 ~~of hell~~ pleasure I have lived through in the past year). Maybe I should have run for a little more than two weeks before trying to pick right back up where I left off after a five year hiatus?

Oh, and I knit some too.

The Striped Betweener

2007-04-22T07:34:00.000-04:00

Sock number three . . .

Pattern: The Striped Betweener by Jaye Quadrozzi
Yarn: Sublime Extra Fine 100% Merino Wool in Red Current (shade 17), Dusted Grey (shade 18), and Girlie (shade 9)
Needles: US 4 Bamboo DPN
Started: April 16, 2007
Finished: April 21, 2007
Notes: Jogless stripes might be a misnomer in my knitting world. Yet, for my first attempt I am satisfied. I received great tips from blogging friends and will use them the next go around.

Soccerchica to Trackdiva

2007-04-20T08:36:00.000-04:00

Soccerchica had never participated in another sport besides soccer (at the level she plays, it takes up all her time). Yesterday changed all that. Soccerchica participated in her first track meet. She place third over-all in the long jump, finished first in her heat for the 100m dash, and placed fourth overall for the 200m dash. Not too shabby for a first time out (ok, I am a little proud).

Note the cast on her left arm. That's what playing in a boys division (to allegedly get better competition, per old coach who has now been fired - long story) for indoor soccer can get you. Thursday it comes off for x-ray's and a new one goes right back on for four more weeks. Hopefully Doctor clears her for play, because it's been almost six weeks since she was in a game and is getting very anxious get on the field.

In knitting news, I worked on these while at the meet. They are The Betweener Socks with added stripes by Jaye Quadrozzi. The first pair I made in this pattern were out of Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk, talk about heaven to wear. My jog's, well, ~~suck~~ need work. But I found a super tutorial blog called TECHknitting. It provided a valuable tip to make my jog’s almost invisible. I tried the stationary jogless stripes and found that I still got a slightly visible dip. But I am enjoying the color changes and the challenge of getting the jog "just right."

Do you have a tip for knitting stripes/color changes in the round? I'd love to hear them!

New Yarn

2007-04-19T23:35:00.000-04:00

Well, I broke down and purchased some fantastic new yarn from The Loopy Ewe. It arrived the other day; I just have been so busy that getting photos was a trick. I ordered . . . wait for it . . . sock yarn. Imagine.

First up two hanks of Louet Gems Sport Weight in Pewter. The label states that gauge is 5-6 sts = 1" on US 3-5 needles. It is my hope that this yarn will aspire to be a pair of Whitby socks from Nancy Bush's Knitting on the Road. The color was difficult to photograph, but I feel I got close. Each hank has a squishy, yet smooth quality to it. My feeling is that the Louet Gems will be pleasing to knit with (as you can see, I was anxious to get started).

Next up is one hank of Cider Moon's Bikini Bottom in their Glacier style. The label states that gauge is 5.5 sts = 1" on US 4 needles. I loved the name as much as the color way on this one. Because the yarn is cushy and light with the added bonus of very fun colors I know I will have fun with this one. The blue/green (very, very light turquoise?) portions are my favorite. Bikini Bottom will make some fun, funky socks perfect for spring. Again the photo had the challenge of producing colors that were just right. Maybe I can take a photography class this summer. Let's just add that to the list, shall we?

Swatching For Stripes

2007-04-18T09:34:00.000-04:00

Now comes some swatching for a striped pair of socks.

I have selected a yarn called Sublime Extra Fine Merino Wool in red current (shade 17), Dusted Grey (shade 18), and Girlie (shade 9). It is a DK weight yarn that is so soft and cushy, I just can't get enough. It was first mentioned here. This is my first foray into stripes and I am skittish about how they will turn out. I have swatched on straight needles and dpn's in the round to get the feeling of the color changes before I begin. Probably a little over-kill, but I was a Girl Scout back in the day.

After a few swatches, I found that I prefer the drape of this fabric when knitted on US 4 dpn's. The ball band calls for a needle size of US6. If I was knitting a sweater, I would likely stick with that. But I am knitting socks, so a tighter gauge is better in my book.

Send me knitting good wishes on the stripes.

Stash Show and Tell

2007-04-16T08:54:00.000-04:00

A few bloggers on the KAL have flashed their stash for us to view. Some of these stashes are massive, with huge dollars wrapped up in sock yarn alone. There are so many gorgeous colors of yarn that just beg to be knit with. Since the 52 Pair Plunge is weighing on my mind, I commenced my own stash dive. This is my effort to get all the sock yarns ready. Um, well . . . I'll let the picture speak for itself.

One hank of Yarn Pirate's Sweetheart color way in a 50/50 Merino/Tencel blend. I purchased it around February, 2007 from The Loopy Ewe, where else.

My intuition told me I am a little under prepared.

So began my calculations to see how much all these socks will set me back. I figure, my median sock yarn price multiplied by the number of socks necessary to complete KAL equals the estimated total cost of all sock yarn needed to complete said KAL (this is where I started the quick, wheezing/breathing of what is known as hyperventilation).

Gulp.

No wonder my horoscope said money would be tight near the end of this month.

Picot-Edged Baby Socks

2007-04-13T08:44:00.000-04:00

Sock number two. . .

Pattern: Picot-Edged Baby Socks by Pattie Pierce
Yarn: Knit Picks Palette 100% Peruvian Wool in Red
Needles: US 1 Addi Turbo Circular (knit on Magic Loop Method)
Gauge: 7 sts to 1" in stockinette
Started: April 10, 2007
Finished: April 11, 2007
Notes: Very quick knit. The pattern calls for a ribbon through the eyelets, yet I prefer the socks without it. So, I win. No ribbon. A word about the yarn, it knits up fairly soft. I am not jumping up and down, but am satisfied with it. If you use this yarn, know that it splits, often.

Finally It's April

2007-04-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

This was taken yesterday, outside my kitchen window.

I keep asking myself, "What the . . .! A blizzard in April?" Just last week it was in the 70's and I was working in my gardens. A-maz-ing.

Baby Knitting Comin' My Way

2007-04-11T09:31:00.000-04:00

Great news! I get to knit for a baby. She is due August, 2007 so summer and winter knits for a little girl are in my future. Cute little booties, hats and sweaters in soft hues of pink are just the ticket. Hmmmmmm, so good. I enjoy knitting for babies because the projects usually (don't ask about the argyle sweater) finish up quickly. An added bonus for me is the pieces weigh almost nothing, making baby goodies perfect for summer knitting.

Now this bundle of joy does not belong to me (huge sigh of relief on my part). Close friends of ours are bringing this baby into our world. Not that RM and I are opposed to more kids; we just need more room to have them. Our house is small, to say the least. If the Department of Housing and Urban Development saw the size of our bedrooms, they would frown. Let's just say tiny and minimal is what we live with. It's an old cottage; drafty, creaky and small, but on a lake. So we deal. But I'm getting off the subject.

Back to baby knitting. . . I am thinking about this from Debbie Bliss' Special Knits for the little gal. After a quick visit to the library, I picked up Itty-bitty Hats by Susan B. Anderson (where do I start . . . all are wonderful) and Knitting for Baby by Melanie Falic and Kristin Nicholas (love the felted diaper bag). There are hundreds of patterns out there and in no time flat my mind gets boggled at the choices. So, if you know of a great baby pattern, please let me know as I'd love to check it out.

Notes - Sorry about the flash in the photo. We are getting snow right now and the light is terrible. The knitting is going to be a pair of baby socks for the 52 Pair Plunge, more details later.

Pewter Socks

2007-04-09T02:10:00.000-04:00

So RM spent part of spring break doing our taxes (read crabby and not at all fun to be around). This meant very limited computer access until he was done. I am sorry that I have not responded to comments or posted for almost a week.

I spent part of spring break showing up at the neighbors with a bottle of wine asking, "Can I come over while RM does taxes, if I share a glass with you?" Because I have the best neighbors, they happily invited me in. Or was it the free wine?!

But I also got the first pair of socks done for the 52 Pair Plunge. I call them Pewter Socks.

***added - this picture looked better before I . . . oh, hell it just stinks. So, please click on it to get a bigger view for detail. Sorry. ***

I love Shirley Paden’s Pewter Coat that was in IK Winter 2006. The cable designs are interesting. She includes some cables that have purling and yo’s in them. These were challenging and new for me. Plus I simple adore knitting through the back loop. Each stitch seems to pop off the knitting, so I use kbl in ribbing quite often.

Though the Pewter Coat is lovely, I knew that it was something I just would not have the time to knit. Still, I longed to try the cable designs. Each pattern repeat is over 32 stitches, if doubled that makes 64 (yep, math wiz right here folks). Coincidently, that is just the number of stitches I like to use when knitting toe-up socks. So, I thought I would give socks a go with Shirley’s pattern.

Here's the down low:

Pattern: A toe-up, with a lot of help (OK all of the chart) from Pewter Coat in the IK, Winter 2006. I loved this sweater, but knew I would never knit it. So, I used the pattern to create these socks. I can not take any credit for this great design. It all goes to Shirley Paden, who is the designer of the coat, and I feel, these socks. I just took the chart and added a toe, heel and cuff.
Yarn: Knit Picks Gloss in Burgundy (70% Merino Wool, 20% Silk)
Needles: US 1 Addi Turbo Circular (knit on Magic Loop Method)
Gauge: 32 St over 4" in stockinette
Started: April 1, 2007
Finished: April 6, 2007
Notes: . I have noticed several designs that start the pattern of the sock immediately after completing the toe. In this case (because of the cables) I felt it best to knit six rounds before beginning to knit the pattern. After that, I just kept going until the yarn ran out. Also, I don't like socks that start the pattern too soon after the heel is turned (rubs in my shoes). So I did not begin the chart until I had six rows of stockinette complete. I knit the cuff with a kbl (knit through the back loop) in the ribbing. In my humble opinion, this seems to make the ribbing "pop" a little more.

If Shirley reads this, I hope she realizes that she designed a great versatile pattern

One pair done, 51 more to go.

Doing Taxes = No Post

2007-04-04T23:09:00.000-04:00

The title says it all.

Sorry.

52 Pair Plunge

2007-03-26T09:55:00.000-04:00

I sent the e-mail off to join the 52 Pair Plunge. Yep, 52 pairs of socks in 52 weeks. Yep. A lot of socks. Yep.

So here is my plan:

1. 5 pair each for RM, Soccerchica and Boo-boo (15 pair)
2. 6 pair for Holiday gifts
3. 4 pair as baby shower gifts
4. 5 pair for me
5. Charity knitting - The Haven could use some, I am sure.
6. Goodness knows what I'll do with the rest.

A pair a week sounds easy, until I really looked at the patterns I wanted to knit (read: All Cookie A's designs), what I already have on my needles (technically not a lot) and all the other things I may want to knit (Fiery bolero, the big frill, etc.). It may be that I have "plunged" into too big of a project. When you think about the sheer number of stitches it takes to knit 52 pairs of socks. Yeeeeek.

Still, I have enthusiasm for this project. Socks are fun for me in the summer because they are easy to tote around. Plus if I am doing baby and kids socks the count should add up quickly. Not even a mention or thought about the skeins (and skeins) of yummy sock yarn I will be using has crossed my mind. The colors, the fibers, the . . . money?! Oh well, we only live once. So here I go!

BTW ~ if anyone could help with saving the buttons (52 Pair Plunge and the Debbie Bliss KAL) to my side bar, I would really appreciate the help.

Update - Yea it works! Thanks eKNITabeth!

Simple Wrapover Finished

2007-03-23T10:09:00.000-04:00

After a few torturous moments, OK, hours really, the Simple Wrapover by Debbie Bliss is finished. This project has been with me since December. We have become the best of friends and the worst of enemies. After a complete grounding and two month sentence to the UFO basket to think about its naughty ways, we regrouped and completed the task. Yet, I love the sweater. Not factoring in all the stretch that occurs with Alpaca, I should have knitted the next size down, but the additional fabric let's me wrap it a little tighter. It's cozy and very, very comfortable. For all the lost mojo during knitting, I think will gain mojo during wearing.

You can see pattern details, etc. here. I am so done with this sweater.

There are a few projects that you just don't have the mojo on. They draw you in, so innocently with superb pictures, lighting and one of the "beautiful people" as models. The yarn is ultra soft and contains all the luxury fiber you could want. Then, you start knitting (here is where the wheels fall off). You knit, and knit, and knit and knit. Find out you misread the pattern and you rip and rip and rip back to ~~stupid, idiotic, moronic~~ said error and fix. Beginning again, you then knit and knit and knit. Rinse, wash and repeat the last two steps twice more. Still nothing seems to be going right. If you are like me, you then give the piece a good, strong talking to (while including all kinds of four letter explicative’s) and send it to the UFO basket for a long over due time-out. I have always hoped that during this imposed time-out the magic will some how re-appear, bringing the joy back to knitting. Normally it does return. Yet this time I had to yank the magic back by-the-horns so to speak.

Because I worked so hard on this sweater, you are getting three pictures! That and it is so damn hard to photograph this color blue. Not one picture showed all the details. It has a great picot edging. The drape of the fabric is wonderful and seems to float on you. But none of this showed in the photos. Again, no magic or mojo for me.

I am so done with this sweater.

PS ~ please know that this in no way is a reflection on the designer. This was a total reflection on me as screw-up knitter. I will knit Debbie Bliss patterns again and again.

Sublime Yarn and Pattern Book

2007-03-22T10:20:00.000-04:00

Soccerchica wants the Fiery Bolero by Debbie Bliss from IK Summer, 2005 issue. But for a teenager that abuses clothing, I could not see spending $40 for yarn. So I have been in search of a dk weight cotton blend, in brown no less, for a few weeks. Still searching, so if you have any thoughts, please let me know.

Because of her request, I decided to drive over to Marshall and visit a LYS there. This shop has beautiful cotton blends that I will need to try in the future. But nothing in my price range for the bolero porject. Because I had money burning a hole in my pocket, I scored some Sublime Yarn in the Merino DK line and The Sublime Merino Hand Knit book. The yarn will become a pair of fun, striped socks with mismatched toes. I plan to knit them on US 3 or 4 size dpns to get a nice tight fabric. The gauge I am shooting for is 6.5 stitches to 1". The yarn is superbly soft to the touch. The true test being how it knits up. Colors are muted, but full (I want to use the word ripe, but don't think that would convey what I am trying to say) in a wonderful color palette.

But I am feeling the call to knit the sweater that is on the cover. It is called the big frill and you can see it here. I don't normally like stripes on clothing that most people who wander into my life will see (read: shirts, pants, etc). I especially don't like the stripes that wrap around you horizontally and if worn incorrectly, end up making me look like a circus tent. I think that the frilly sweater looks great on "the beautiful people," but will it look good on one of us everyday, "garden variety people?" Also, my usual wardrobe is filled with solids, or pieces with minimal details, very simple clean lines that fit well. So something frilly with stripes is a big leap for me. But I can't stop thinking about it. It sits on my desk, begging me to look at it, dream about it, knit it.

There are several other nice designs in this book. I think that Boo-boo would like the little retro sweat. Very stylish with the simple design at the neck. Being that he needs a new sweater for church, this one might just fit the bill.

Now, RM would look great in the little rib number. He does not wear sweaters all that much; he’s more of a vest guy. So I don’t know why I am attracted to this sweater. Though it could be that I quite enjoy looking at the man who is modeling this sweater - Oh, admit it, you think he might be a little cute too. Shhhhh, don't tell RM.

Overall, the designs in this book are simple and classic. I am growing fond of them.

New Flora in My Garden

2007-03-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

Pattern: Flora by Kate Kuckro on Knitty.com
Yarn: Jo Sharp's Kid Mohair in Rosehip and Alpaca Kid Lustre in both Ripe and Vintage (all three held together)
Needles: Vintage Aluminum US 8
Started: January 2, 2007
Finished: March 14, 2007
Notes: This was first blogged about here and here. I added a third button as a stabilizer because flower tended to flop. Jo Sharp yarn is so soft against my skin. Before it was washed and blocked, I could take or leave the feel of the yarn. But after . . . oh baby.

Here is a close up of the large button that should show through the center of the flower. It was purchased at JoAnn Fabrics and I can not remember the name or brand. JoAnn's had a lot of them in stock. I love this vintage feel and think it compliments the scarf yarn and style beautifully. The designer's thought was to have the button show through as the eye of the flower. Because of all the twists around the button hole, it sometimes doesn't show through as well as I would like it to. Overall, I really like this scarf.

All finished ~ just in time for spring. Let's all hope some of those early spring outdoor soccer games are cool.

Rest For The Wicked

2007-03-19T10:09:00.000-04:00

Well, after it's much needed rest, Wicked is complete. If you want a review of the progress check here, here and there.

I decided to tink back to last decrease, and change the increase/decrease of the pattern slightly. Since the pattern only "suggested" the increases at the waist, I consulted with Robin to see what she thought(she just finished Wicked and it looks great). We both agreed that the increases for waist are necessary. Here are the specs:

Pattern: Wicked from Zephyr Style
Yarn: Nature Spun Worsted in Lavender Blue
Needles: Addi Turbos US 8 Circ
Started: February 28, 2007
Finished: March 15, 2007
Notes: Started with recommended US7 Bamboo needles, gauge was too tight. Switched to Addi Turbos US 8 and hit gauge right on. After putting stitches on waste thread about 100 times I added two more decreases under arms and only did four increases at waist. I used M1L for my increases because it was tight and almost invisible. Toyed around with some others, but they all left too much of a gap between stitches for my liking.

In my opinion this pattern is nice, but really needs a variegated yarn. With the entire stockinette in my chest area, the girls seem to really jump out. I was ~~blighted~~ rewarded with an ample bosom (I can't see my feet when I look down, and it's not because of my belly). So I try very hard not to accentuate them, at all costs. My line of thinking is that maybe the variegated yarn would be a sort of camo. Who knows?

At least the lavender doesn't make me look like the Easter Bunny threw-up on me!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2007-03-17T10:45:00.000-04:00

Why should you never iron a 4-leaf clover? You don't want to press your luck.
~ Daryl Stout

I know it's corny, but it's fun. Enjoy your weekend and be safe.

Seriously

2007-03-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

I have known that Grey's Anatomy was around. We have a television. I read the gossip magazines in the grocery checkout, but I had never, ever watched the show. There are other things in my life more important. Children, knitting, husband, knitting, cat, knitting, eating, knitting. . . you get the picture.

I would neglect my chores and place the kids in front of the TV to knit (Not, very often, I am not a big TV advocate mind you). Knitting was my escape, my serenity, my calming force so to speak. RM would come home and I would have a new sock done. No clean boxers, no dinner ready nor the house clean, but a great new sock. My knitting friends would come over and all the kids would play while we happily knit. Sure toys were everywhere. Yep, they had noodles from a can and juice (instead of milk) for lunch. But everyone was having fun.

That was before.

Before I had to go searching for a Grey's Anatomy Box Set. You see, it was a gift for CJ, my sister's husband. A smart, intelligent man who has a hidden sense of humor (and a knitting blog lurker . . . I know your out there, I can feel you). Never really understood what he saw in this television show. Up until now, I thought it was another ER. Too much blood and drama for me. If I am going to sit in front of the TV or movies for that matter, I want to enjoy what I am watching. But on a whim I rented it (hey, it was free). Big mistake - BIG mistake.

Now I am neglecting my duties for a new love.
Oh Gosh, I'm hooked.
Can't. Tear. Myself. Away.
There is a knit night in my town that I just found out about (helps to read the paper once in a while Trixie) on the same night! Oh no, how do I choose? I can't . . . I won't . . . Help!

My mind's made up, tonight I'm cheating on my knitting! Thanks CJ.

No Knitting Content

2007-03-12T10:49:00.000-04:00

Well, the weekend weather was gorgeous! We all went outdoors for some fresh air. These are some daffodils (I think) that are coming up next to the garage. I planted them two summers ago, along with some hyacinth, early tulips and crocus. When they are all in bloom, they look lovely.

RM & Boo-boo spent quite a bit of time down by the lake smashing the ice up. By the time they were done, RM had fallen in to the water up to his knees. Does the little boy ever leave the man?

During Friday's game, Soccerchica hurt her wrist after being smashed into the boards (whoever says that girls don't get rough was WRONG). Long story short, she is now wearing a splint, waiting for the results of x-rays. Read fracture and/or cast in our future.

Since I am fighting a cold, I am taking vitamin c and zinc to keep the worst symptoms away. Doesn't seem to be working. I just want to crawl into bed and sleep the day away. But, Mom duties call . . .

Just In Time For Spring

2007-03-10T10:24:00.000-05:00

I haven't worked on Flora for a while because I ran out of yarn. Knitting the body began with Jo Sharp's Kid Mohair in Rosehip and Alpaca Kid Lustre in Ripe and Vintage all held together. Ending this project with the same yarn would be nice. The yarn is very enjoyable to knit with. Colors are ever-changing, with absolutely no pattern/pooling, which is fun. An added bonus is the Alpaca is very soft, especially pleasing since it will be going near the tender skin of my neck (I am a delicate flower, you know).

The scarf portion is complete, but I did not have enough yarn for the flower. Because I really wanted the dye lots to match, more was ordered more from Lost Art Yarn, in Traverse City. This was where I purchased the original batch and they (thankfully) had the same dye lot in stock. So after some exchanging of vital purchasing information, the yarn is now here.

It came in the mail today! Whoo-hoo! But aliens seem to have taken over our house, so I hope I get to use the yarn at all (really, it's Soccerchica being goofy - gotta love her).

Speaking of Soccerchica, there are lots of soccer games this weekend for her. We had two indoor games last night, two games for a Tournament in Wixom today, and another indoor game in Grand Rapids on Sunday. Yep, I'll be doing a lot of driving. But knitting will go with me.

At my current rate I should finish this about mid May. It goes without saying that I will have to wear it once before she is put away for the season. I think Flora will look stunning with my Bermudas, t-shirt and a cute pair of strapy sandals - in June. Pray for a chilly morning. . .

Bubbles

2007-03-09T08:40:00.000-05:00

Remember how much fun it was to be a child? What was it that made us laugh at the simplest things, for no reason at all?

Gloom seemed to over take our house, eating our happiness. We were grouchy. Cabin fever had hit us in a bad way.
We needed some summer.
Today.
Now.
Since Michigan's current climate isn't exactly outdoor swimming weather, we did the next best thing. During Boo-boo's bath time, I got out the bubbles. Not the bubble bath kind, but the outside, blow kind. He spent over an hour in the tub. Blowing bubbles and laughing - hard. This brought all the sunshine we needed back into our home, effectively erasing my memory of all the earlier bad and gloom, making me happy.

He's now asking for bubbles at every bath time. Sunshine everyday at our house, Yippee!

Knitting note ~ sleeves are on the needles for Ouch and I have put Wicked down to contemplate my next move.

Hmmmmm So Good

2007-03-08T14:17:00.000-05:00

Last night my cousin arrived for a too short stay and dinner. He has a 30 day leave from the Army. Because his daughters are attend school (in Germany) and he did not want to pull the away from their studies he is doing a week's worth of traveling on his own.

I felt compelled to feed him a home cooked meal. Now, cooking is really not my strong point. I made meatloaf once that our dog wouldn't eat it (really, that's true). But I did make a passable meal this time. No vomiting or upset tummies so far. The one dish that did turn out was this Sweet Potato Soufflé (recipe courtesy of JJ). It is Hmmmmm so good. In fact, I had a little this am for breakfast. Very rich and creamy.

Here is Wicked a few days ago. Having forgotten that I even took the photo, I found it while downloading food pictures. So I thought, "What the Heck." But I can not get the color right to save my life. Flash on. Flash off. Light in back. Light on side. Heck I even tried no light. But still the color remains washed out.

After knitting the body to 10 inches, I am wondering if I should a) do the increases for hips even though it seems ample through the waist already, b) forge ahead without the increases, or c) rip back and decrease once or twice more, then included increases at hips as written. Decisions, decisions. Does anyone have an opinion either way?

Well, I waited so long to post this that I think it's safe to head back for some more Sweet Potatoes! A girl can only go so long between meals.

Where Oh Where Has This Knitter Gone?

2007-03-06T13:34:00.000-05:00

Well, I've been knitting away at the Simple Wrapover (aka Ouch)and Wicked. I can see the finish line on Ouch. The back panel has, literally, one more inch to knit and it will be done. After that I can move on to the sleeves. Because I just want to be finished with Ouch, I am going to cast on both sleeves on the same needle. Wish me luck, because with the mojo this sweater has/has not (depending on your outlook), this could be interesting.

Wicked is a few inches from getting a pocket. After that, she only needs the left sleeve (I finished the right sleeve because round after round of Stockinette was, well, tedious) and . . . viola! . . . a new sweater. Yet, I can't help to second guess my yarn color choice. It could look brilliant or look like the Easter Bunny threw-up. It was sunny this morning, yet I missed my opportunity to get a photo with true color of the yarn for you. We won't know until it's all done, eh?

My cousin is coming to visit tomorrow evening. He just returned from Iraq, where he earned a Bronze Star during this last tour (he has been to Iraq more than once). So, I am cleaning and getting ready to cook him a great big "comfort food" meal. We are very excited to reunite with him. He has asked me if I would ride to Clinton Township with him to visit some family grave sites later this week. So I may get a chance to spend more time with him, we'll see. Maybe I could get him to stop at a yarn shop or two along the way? Yea, riiiight.

Have You Seen These?

2007-03-01T11:53:00.000-05:00

Wow.

Amazing.

Check these wonderful socks out!

Must.Knit.Now.

Cookie has done it again. These patterns were for sale at Stitches West. For obvious reasons, they sold out. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we will be able to buy them via internet soon. I've decided I am going to hold my breath until the patterns are available. My finger is poised on the "buy" button for paypal, ready to purchase when they do go on sale.

She better hurry . . .

I'm getting light-headed due to lack of air . . .

Journey

2007-02-28T22:13:00.000-05:00

There is a person who has begun a new journey. I do not know her, except her name is Cassie. She knows loss. Enormous, terrible loss, that I can not even try to comprehend. Her husband was hit by a car and killed while jogging. He was 37 years old. I do not know her, yet I feel such sadness in her story. What started as one journey, in a heartbeat has changed to another. I keep her in my prayers, hoping she will find comfort in knowing others are out here thinking of her.

I found this mentioned at Mind of Winter, and followed the links to Stitch Marker. If you want to help, buy the pattern or just give a donation.

Help ease her journey.

Hopping on a Left Foot

2007-02-28T10:44:00.000-05:00

Last night I finished my travel project. These were knit while riding in the car over the past two weekend trips north.

World, meet Anastasia.
Anastasia, meet world.

Here are the specs:

Pattern: Anastasia by Pepperknit
Needles: Addi Turbos US1 Circ
Yarn: Knit Picks Memories in Rocky Mountain Dusk
Date Started: February 15, 2007
Date Finished: February 27, 2007

Being happy to have new wool socks, I have worn them all day, without washing or blocking. The knit fabric is soft and warm. I think I like this yarn. While the colors are pretty true in my photo, there is a little more black in "real life." The one bump I am trying to get over is that there is already a little halo around the heel and toes. Slightly disappointing on a brand new pair of socks, making me wonder what washing will bring.

It is very difficult to take pictures of your own feet. I see some beautiful photos out there, all taken by the wearer of said socks. How do they do that?

BTW ~ Today we had a conference with LM's pre-school teacher. LM is doing fine and ready for Kindergarten next year. But do you know how hard it is to sit through a conference with a teacher as one of the parents? It's kind of funny to watch the "battle of who knows more about early childhood" that develops between them. Pretty soon someone is spouting a research study, then Meap Scores and how much experience so-and-so has. All this because LM is having trouble hopping on his left foot. Hmmmm, someone is taking things a little too seriously. It's pre-school for cryin' out loud. I have serious doubts that this will affect his ability to get into Grad School.

Snow Bunnies

2007-02-26T10:23:00.000-05:00

This weekend was our annual trip up North with RM's entire family. Since all the kids ski we naturally go to Boyne. it's a great time for all of us to be together and reconnect. We never saw the kids because they were always out skiing, snowboarding or at the water park. So us adults had fun with some skiing, good wine and lots of laughs. An added bonus is my SIL is a knitter! I lured her to the craft two summers ago and now she take her needles everywhere. SIL is working on an adorable purse that I fawned over enough (as a blatant hint) that maybe I'll be the lucky recipient.

I am making good progress on the simple wrap sweater. I think I am going to re-name this sweater Ouch. Not because it is a bad pattern or design, but because I have learned a lot about shaping. The hard way. It has not been painless. I have learned that I must be ever watchful of my stitch count. Plus reading ahead in the pattern, but not too far ahead, might be a way of catching some of the decrease issues earlier. All that said, both front panels are complete and about 1/3 of the back panel is done. No sense complaining, but plain stockinette over 120 stitches for 21 inches can be a little ho hum.

Keep your eye on the goal, Trixie, eye on the goal.

Join My Knit Alone

2007-02-23T10:20:00.000-05:00

Listen. . . Do you hear it?
Me either.
That's right! Last night I had the whole house all to myself.

Here's what I did:

1. I used the bathroom when I wanted. I did not have to search for a full roll of toilet paper. It was there waiting for me.

2. I ate take out authentic Mexican food. The way I like it, with lots of sour cream and guacamole. Plus I got to sit on the floor in the living room without a napkin!

3. I got to hold the remote and change the channels! If I wanted to linger on a station, by goodness I did. So there.

4. I got to drink soda pop. Now, we usually keep some soda pop in the house, but only for adults. What makes this special is that I got to have glass after glass after glass. The caffeine buzz that came later was kind of a bummer, but oh so worth it.

5. I turned the water bed temperature up (gasp) and laid across the bed, using all the pillows and all the blankets. RM will tell you I am great about using all the covers so he doesn't get too hot - even on sub-zero nights. Isn't that generous of me?

6. I knit. A lot. But I was alone. Many, many people knit alone each day. I enjoy it. The music or TV forms a rhythm and I just cruise along. So, I may never join a knitting group. Well. . . never is a long time.

7. I watched Season 2, episodes 11 - 15 of Grey's Anatomy. Now, this new fixation is CJ's (JJ's hubby) fault (yes, you will get yours). I have given up knitting to watch this show. It's evil I tell you!

8. I jumped at every noise, creak and meow. Eventually I fell asleep with the lights and TV on. Apparently, I am very comfortable with my men in the house. I have forgotten my solo sleeping skills, so getting relaxed enough to doze was difficult.

9. I truly and utterly missed my family. Will be with them this evening and I can't wait.

Do you enjoy knitting alone? That solo time to reflect on the day or lose yourself in the rhythm and counting? Knitting with a large group is fun. The giggles, laughs and knowledge is out of this world. But I don't seem to get much knitting done, just a lot of talking. When I want to crank out a project, I don't take it to a knitting group, in the car, or any public knitting. I hole up on my couch and begin.

So I will knit alone sometimes, but look for companionship all the time.

My Wicked Ways

2007-02-22T09:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I went and purchased the pattern for Wicked. After seeing Robin's, I knew I needed to have this sweater. Because of budget constraints (our truck needed major repairs this week) I could not splurge on expensive yarn. I pulled some Nature Spun in Lavender Blue from my stash. In my opinion it will make a great short sleeve version. Still up in the air about the pocket. . . and the ribbing vs. moss stitch (I have seen several comments about this on other blogs).

In other news, I figured out the problem with the simple wrap sweater, as detailed here and here. The pattern calls for a decrease at front edge until 22 stitches remain, then knit until piece is 22 inches in length. Not in the three times I knit the front could I get anywhere near those numbers. Then ~~by chance~~ through my exceptional math skills *giggles - a lot* I found that I had exactly double the stitches needed. So instead of a single decrease, I did a double decrease. Ta-Da! Needless to say, I have the right front complete and the left will be done by the weekend. Yea, it feels good to conquer this one.

Boo-boo wants to know why I never "knits" him anything. I guess the sweater doesn't count. It was one of the first sweaters I knit, so maybe the quality is a little low. But each stitch has a lot of love. But now he has requested some socks. Maybe I'll "knits" him a pair to match Daddy's.

OK, that's three projects I am working on at once, plus some traveling socks and a design project. Hey, "knits" monogamy is not my strong point.

I'm sooo wicked!

Happy

2007-02-20T09:09:00.000-05:00

With the warmer temperatures outside, the snow is perfect for packing and snowballs. We are outside playing.

Hope you enjoy your day!

Life Gets in The Way

2007-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am here.
I am knitting.
I am fffffffreezing.

Sorry about how long I have been without post. Life seems to get in the way. But Soccerchica was home for a few days. We had fun laughing and exchanging early Valentine's. In the end, I believe she liked the ear rings. We watched her play an indoor game on Saturday. Her team plays up in the boys division to keep the games challenging. All the kids played hard, but we won (with Chica scoring a goal). Throw in a snow day and Valentine's Day you have a pretty busy week.

But on to knitting. I fell in love with Rose's Wrist Warmers. I first saw them on Rae's blog. Go on and check them out, I'll wait.

So, you loved them too? It had to be the fact that Rose was longer than these or those. Immediately I cast on with some Brown Sheep's Lamb's Pride Superwash in Shane's Red. I am infatuated with this color. Not too orange. More scarlet in color with flecks of blue and green.

As in most cases, I tried to follow the pattern to the letter. Yet, Rose was proving too long for my taste. My solution was to omit one diamond repeat. After, they fit perfectly, not too long and not too short. The pattern says you can do a 1x1 rib on the palm to prevent any rolling that might occur. It's a good idea. Do we see a matching hat in my future?

Knitting frantically to finish RM's socks by Valentine's Day.

Oops. Missed that one. So he'll get them a day (or two) late this year. He got a little "gift" yesterday anyway. Now, get your mind out of the gutter. Boo-Boo got him a photo album! RM has been asking me to start scrap-booking for about six months. I even received this for Christmas as a subtle hint. Point taken. But I will not join the cult that is scrap-booking. Nothing against anyone that does, but I am not that creative with paper and glue.

Valentine Socks

2007-02-14T15:21:00.000-05:00

Busy knitting - fast.

Need to get RM's socks done by . . . today. Eeek.

So I will leave you with this:

I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon. ~Author Unknown

Enjoy!