Amy's Knitting and Stuff

something you don't see every day!

2011-10-24T11:51:00.001-05:00

Originally uploaded by anunmaker

I was on my way to class last week, when I got pushed off the road by a police car. I thought it was a funeral so I pulled over. The police car was way over in my lane (oncoming traffic) so i pulled all the way off the road. Turns out it was a student jet coming from NAS Pensacola.

Just when you think Fall is here....

2011-10-24T11:48:00.000-05:00

I spent some of this weekend swapping summer and winter clothes. The fair started last week, and right on queue, the temperatures dropped about 20 degrees and it stayed that way for several days. So, I took out all my winter clothes, so that i would be prepared, and right on queue, the temps jump back up to the 80's. I kept out some short sleeves, but not many. I will just have to find a way to cope....like I do...every. year. You would think I would get it by now!

Sometimes I surprise myself!

2011-09-10T17:11:00.000-05:00

It's September already! Can you believe it? That means we are gearing up for the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on October 29th. Fundraising is well underway, and I would love your support for this fun event. My personal page is HERE. I am about 80% to my goal of $1000, and any little bit will help. Thanks!

So, on that note, I have to share what I made to wear while I walk! Our team is called "Noble Knitters", because we meet at the local Barnes & Noble. (Monday nights at 7pm, if you want to join us!) I wanted something yarn crafty to wear and something that would stand out a bit in the crowd. Here is what I came up with:

C'est chique, no? I probably spelled that wrong, but whatever...What do you think. I used the Bernat cotton from JoAnn's that supports Susan G. Komen for the Cure. I love how the stripy effect worked in the flower. There is a big ol' plastic gem in the middle for a little bit of bling, and the feather reminds me of the old west!

One down, so many to go!

2011-08-25T18:13:00.001-05:00

Well, the first week of school is done for me. Of course, just because I am not in class, doesn't mean I don't have work to do. Au Contraire...there is a ton of work to do, and I have gotten a good start on it. First test in Pathophysiology is Monday. Big assignment in Intro to Health Info Management due Wednesday. I already have a cramp in my hand from typing! This program is tough, which I expected. Now I just have to get back into the swing of things and get the work done!

On the knitting front, I finished a sweater vest. I may or may not publish the pattern. I haven't decided yet. First, I need to find buttons and get the thing blocked properly. Pictures to follow.

Back to School Shopping

2011-08-20T09:11:00.000-05:00

It's toward the end of August and I am on the hunt for some new jeans. I was thinking about this and realized that every year, about this time, I get obsessed with finding jeans that fit. Granted, I am going back to school, and jeans are the standard school uniform for a college student (I will not resort to sweat pants. I draw the line there.) And, for years I worked in a business casual office that allowed us to wear jeans to work, but why is it that this time of year always makes me want to shop?

Here's my theory...it's August in the Florida Panhandle, and we have endured several months of 90+ degree weather. (we still have a couple of months to go...) The end of August/beginning of September is the start of school season, and when school starts, it's supposed to be fall, right? Well, living here for as long as I have, I know that temperatures don't cool off until October, and we are often in shorts after that, but I guess anticipation gets the best of me! And, Florida is not the only place this happens. All the time I lived in Atlanta, I would go clothes shopping this time of year too!

So, I am off to the area malls, in search of good jeans. Today, I drive to Ft. Walton to see what I can come up with. Oh, and if I pass by a YARN SHOP, all the better!

On the knitting front, I am working on a vest that I may or may not publish. It is my interpretation of something I saw in a catalog, so I am still on the fence about publishing. I will, however, post FO pictures when I get it done.

Happy Knitting!

CIMG0428

2011-08-16T09:12:00.003-05:00

CIMG0428
Originally uploaded by anunmaker

Amy Butler pattern. Love this one!

CIMG0430

2011-08-16T09:12:00.001-05:00

CIMG0430
Originally uploaded by anunmaker

T-shirt quilt...finally done!

Big changes around here...

2011-08-16T09:11:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I changed up my blog a bit, but that's not the big changes, I was talking about. Two weeks ago, on July 30, I left my job to pursue a new career. I will begin school August 22, to learn medical billing and coding. I am thrilled and ready to go, and a little nervous about it.

This time around, though, I find that I am more focused and determined to do really well. But, my books are sitting here looming, and even though there are only two this semester, they seem to be stacked to the ceiling! This semester are Intro to Health Info Management, and Pathophysiology. Does it sound exciting? I have a hard time even spelling the second one! So, wish me luck, keep me in your prayers that I will be able to devote the time and energy I need to this new endeavor to be successful. Thanks!

On the crafty front, these past couple of weeks have been productive. I got my sewing machine out and have been working nonstop for 2 weeks. I had several projects that had been wasting away in boxes half done, or not started, so I got to work. I have finished 2 quilts and have one at the professional quilter. I made some curtains for a friend, along with pillows! I made 2 tops and a skirt for me, and sewed up some simple pants for mom. Like I said, busy! I only have picture a few pictures, but I can't seem to get the URL's to work, so will post them individually.

I have been knitting too, and am currently working on a vest out of cotton, that I may publish...we will see how it goes.

Anyway, it's nice to be back and I hope all is well with you out in the Interwebs... Happy New School Year!

It's been a while

2011-03-25T12:22:00.000-05:00

I can hardly believe it has been 5 months since I even looked at my blog. Life has happened and I have had to just go with it. I have been busy working, studying, knitting, weaving, and spinning. Really just same-o, same-o.

Mom had her knee replaced last September, and I am happy to report that she is doing really well. She was released from PT for her knee pretty early on, and has been working on her shoulder ever since. Today is her last day at PT for that, and will continue with her exercises at home. She doesn't have the range of motion she would like to have, but she works on it little by little.

Last October, I started training for a 5K race. That's right, I started doing some running. I completed my first official 5K on March 12th, at the McGuire's 5K prediction race. My only goal was to finish in under and hour, which I did at 59:18.18. I was encouraged all the way by Carol, a fellow knitter, who is a dyed in the wool runner (hahahaha)! It was such a privilege and so much fun to be able to participate and to have so many people pulling for me. I have slowed down on the running, and am starting to feel it in my bones, so I think I will get out this weekend to the park and have a good long walk.

January was the Destin Spin-In. This was my second year attending, and again, I had a fabulous time. Met some new friends and had a nice time unwinding and de-stressing. I hope to be able to attend again next year.

April will be time for Stitches South in Atlanta, and I will be going over the weekend. I look forward to hanging out with friends from Atlanta and Pensacola and doing some shopping while there.

I have missed blogging these past few months, and I plan to keep up with it a little better this year. So, until next time, be good!

Let's go Knitting!

2010-11-18T13:08:00.002-06:00

CIMG0254
Originally uploaded by anunmaker

Prue found herself a new place to sleep. I think she might be ready for Knit Night, too bad it's Thursday!

Finished Weaving Project

2010-10-31T16:31:00.000-05:00

Mom and I took our summer vacation this year in Charleston, SC (Hey, Laurie and Heather!!) and in Asheville, NC. While in Asheville, we visited Earth Guild. I love this place. I found a weaving kit made of rayon yarn that was supposed to make 3 plain weave scarves. Well, I had to order another cone of weft yarn, because I just couldn't do 3 identical scarves and had to change up the weaving. So, the first was plain weave, the second simple 2/2 twill, and the third a 2/2 twill in a chevron pattern.

Plain Weave

Simple 2/2 Twill

2/2 Chevron Twill

I have really enjoyed making these, and they have been a great learning experience. I am planning my next project now which will be a Christmas present for my brother.

Update on Cookie Mom....she had her knee replaced on Sept 8th and was up and walking soon there after. She is going through PT now and is doing really well. She is almost up to 120 degrees flexibility in her knee, which the PT's say is enough to get up from any chair and pretty much do any natural everyday movements. They are also working on her shoulder from the break. That is taking a while longer to work on, but she is coming along. We were supposed to try out driving again today, but haven't gotten to it yet. So, that's where we are. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers!

It's fall, or what passes for fall in my neck of the woods...

2010-10-18T14:17:00.000-05:00

Yeah, just because the calendar says October, doesn't mean we are in for chilly temps and warm sweaters just yet. The weather finally broke around the end of September, and the days have been nice, in the 50s/80s most days with low humidity. Humidity is what really gets us along the Gulf Coast. Today, we turned off the A/C at lunch and have opened some windows. Finally.

Mom is doing pretty good. Her knee replacement went well and we are onto a regime of Physical Therapy at a nearby facility. The house is getting back to normal. The took away the hospital bed today. So she will be able to sleep in her own bed tonight!

I have been slowly working on a couple of knitting projects and finally got to do some weaving. While on vacation this summer, I bought a kit with a hand painted warp. It's enough to make 3 long scarves and it's made of a rayon yarn. I am very happy with it so far, and love the colors. It's amazing to watch the fabric form as I weave back and forth...

I am really starting to love weaving. Once the loom is warped, it can go pretty fast. Sunday I worked for about 3 hours and got almost a whole scarf done. I worked for about 20 minutes at lunch today and got another 3.5 inches done. All the time was working on this, i was thinking about my next weaving project, and how much yarn i would need. I want to make a blanket for my brother, but i will have to make it in strips and sew them together. Just need to figure out how big i want to make the thing. And then do some math and get the yarn!

And, I am not going to SAFF this year, which is really disappointing. I was so looking forward to seeing everyone and spending a few days in the mountains, but mom isn't ready to be on her own just yet. So, I am still taking a few days off, which I desperately need, and will spend the time here. And I am looking forward to the January Spin-In in Destin.

Numa Numa

2010-09-19T22:42:00.002-05:00

I just had to share this!

File Under: This one's a keeper!

2010-07-31T20:49:00.000-05:00

So, since mom broke her shoulder, I have been in charge of foraging for us. The kitchen is MINE! I have been trying to be creative in my cooking, and find good recipes that get in some meat and veggies, but still trying to be somewhat healthy. I am not as focused on lo-fat, lo-cal, I mostly just want well rounded. The problem I have found is that most recipes make meals for 4 or more. While I lived alone, I could cook and put up the leftovers, or invite friends over to eat.

The other day, I bought this book The Pleasures of Cooking for One, by Judith Jones. I saw her interviewed on TV and she made a cheese souffle. It looked amazing and today I doubled the recipe and made two!

So these along with a green salad were lunch. And, I have to say, they were delicious and fairly easy. Of course, they took about every bowl I had in the kitchen, but they were so worth it! Light and airy and oh so cheesy. I used vermont white cheddar this time. I will be making these again, maybe next time swiss or grueyere.

Update on Mom...it's been a month since she fell. We have been to the orthopedic surgeon who decided that surgery on the shoulder would be a crap shoot and that we will hold off and see how it heals. He seems to think it is healing well and she will return to most normal activities. However, in the next 2 weeks, we see him again, but this time for Mom's knees. His plan is to replace the left knee and then the right later on. His goal is to get her out of her electric chair and walking and soon.
That's where we are.

Update on Mom

2010-07-12T17:12:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been 2 full weeks since she fell. Her arm is broken. The ball joint that sits in the shoulder is broken in 4 places. The doc says this is an injury that won't heal properly and the best thing to do is replace that part of the bone. And we are being referred to a shoulder specialist. So, it's gonna be surgery. Don't know when yet, but will keep you posted.

The good news is that it doesn't look like her hip is fractured. Her left knee still won't hold her up, but we have to address the shoulder first. Then we will go to the knees.

On the up side, I have been knitting like crazy and am almost finished with another sweater. I did finish up some socks today, minus the kitchner...just a toe away and i can send these off to Socks for Soldiers!

I have some good news and some bad news...

2010-06-30T16:14:00.002-05:00

I always take the bad first, the the good seems really good, right? Well, here it goes.
Mom fell on Monday here in the house. She tripped. Not sure on what. Not sure if her knee didn't just lock up. Whatever, she fell. She broke her left shoulder. She is in bed now, resting, but she is getting restless. This laying around does not agree with her. I offered her my HP books on CD to listen too, but she didn't want them. Her Ortho appointment is tomorrow. I hope that is good news, but I am expecting them to tell us she needs surgery. Will post when i know anything more.

Now, for the good news, I just scheduled the last payment on my student loan. As of July 12, I will be free and clear. I am very thankful for that!

just not feelin' it right now...

2010-06-25T16:59:00.000-05:00

I was trying to design a sock using Shibui. Love the yarn. Found the stitch pattern. Tried at 72 stitches on 1.5 needles. Didn't work, not enough yarn. Tried 64 stitches on 2 needles...better, but tried it on after got through the heel, and didn't like the fit. So, I frogged everything and am going to revisit the pattern later. I have a couple of projects on the needles, but I am just not feelin' either of them right now. I think my knitting mojo stayed on vacation!

I did get a couple of new yarns that I am thinking about projects for. Maybe I'll start something new. After all, I only have 3 projects on the needles...

is it Friday yet?

2010-06-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

2 more days of work, then VACATION!!! I am so ready...mom and I are driving up to Charleston. Can't wait to see Laurie and Heather! Then, to Asheville, by way of Columbia, SC..stop to see Dawn then to visit one of mom's friends in Hendersonville, NC. Then back down through Atlanta on the way home. It's going to be nice to not have a big agenda and just explore. And hit the yarn shops.

Of course, I am not nearly ready. I have laundry, packing, cleaning, work....the list goes on and on. But, I have chosen the knitting I am taking with me. I have 4 projects on the needles right now. 2 socks, 1 shawl (lace), 1 skirt. I should have plenty to keep me busy.

Saturday, I finished a sewing project for me. It's a Simplicity pattern with Amy Butler fabric. I thought it was going to be a bit warm for the summer, but I wore it the other day, and it was fine. I love it when things fit!

It's been six months....

2010-06-04T11:11:00.001-05:00

Ok, I know it's been 6 months. This year has turned out busier than usual. I have been knitting full speed. I bought a 4 shuttle floor loom. I taught a class at Yarnside Gathering, my LYS. Mom's retiring. And work has been...well, work. (and that's all I'm going to say about that)

Here are a few pictures of finished objects to tide you over.

Hey, Teach , from Knitty. In Cotton Fleece from Brown Sheep. A few adjustments were made to the construction and the button bands. But I love it!

Inishturk from Lion Brand. Made with Galway wool.

Lorretto Vest, Knit Scene, Winter/Spring 2010. Made with my own handspun.

Snow Queen Coat, Fairy Tale Knits. Made from Cascade 220 Superwash. For my goddaughter.

As for the Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico, this morning they started finding tar balls on Pensacola Beach. So, it's here. I know that politics have made this even worse than anyone could imagine. And I don't claim to know anything about anything, but I will say that I don't understand why politics and bureaucrats have to get in the way of environmental disasters. We are a country of "fixers". Why is it taking so long to fix the problem so that we can get down to the business of cleaning up? Everyone who lives here, grew up here, or has some kind of connection to the Gulf Coast claims it as their own. I am greatly saddened that My beach, as I know it, will never be the same. And that's all I am going to say about that.

January Spin-In

2010-01-26T08:22:00.000-06:00

This is it...it's finally here and I am super excited about it. Tomorrow, after an appointment, I am going to Destin, FL for the January Spin-In. I am not really sure what to expect, but there are over 100 other spinners registered, coming from all over the country. There will be vendors, and other stuff.

Oh, and did I mention Destin? Palms of Destin to be exact. I have a little condo all reserved and I can't wait. I even got up early this morning to put away some yarn and pull out some fiber to take with me. I haven't packed anything else yet...and I am not sure how I am going to get it all there. Going to borrow my brother's Tahoe, since my truck is not as reliable as it used to be. And need to get a few groceries.

I am going to try to remember to take some pictures...

DETENTE

2010-01-25T07:23:00.000-06:00

So yesterday was a rainy nasty kind of day. The kind only good for cooking homemade soup, baking cookies, watching movies and knitting. So that's what I did. We also tried moving Prue's food up, so that we could leave the door open, and she could come into the house, while the DOG was out. After a bit of hissing and spitting and retreat, we finally achieve our version of DETENTE.

That's Millie on the left and Prue on the right. Ignore the mess...like I said it was a stay in kind of day. I had everything I needed right there in front of me. I finished a project, and designed a hat. More on those later. For now, peace for a day was awesome!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T21:30:00.001-06:00

They say that what you do on the first day of the year, you will be doing for the rest of the year. Well, if that's true, then I am really looking forward to spending time with good friends, eating good food, and knitting! I had my ham and black eyed peas...and salad replaced greens, but what the heck....it was all good. I have a couple of finished pairs of socks.

I am sitting here watching my Gators! pummel Cinnci in the Sugar Bowl in my blue and orange...and I have my socks on! Anything I can do to support the boys!

Made a pair of socks for Mom too. Used Tofutsies. i like the yarn, even though it was a bit splitty. Mom loves them, that's all that matters!

I will leave you with what we can expect from Millie this year...

Happy New Year!

Cookies, round 2

2009-12-07T08:37:00.000-06:00

well, they're made, but i am not sure i like them. So i will box them up and take them tonight to my ~~test subjects~~...i mean friends and see what they think. I will not be heartbroken if they don't like them.

unsuccessful cookies

2009-12-06T13:06:00.000-06:00

So, I bought this little Betty Crocker Christmas Cookie book. You know the kind...at the grocery store check out..5x7 book with a zillion recipes centered around a particular type of cooking. Well, I saw the Christmas cookie book and couldn't resist. I looked through this book about a 100 times before deciding to bake my way through it. Occasionally, I will blog about it, but I am not turning it into a blog project or anything like that.

As I have moved back home, and work out of the house, I didn't really have anyone to share with...until I mentioned my plans to Molly, the LYS owner. Um, well, needless to say, my new test subjects are my knitting groups.

Today I was on my third recipe. Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread. I misread the recipe and used only one stick of butter instead of 2. I didn't realize the mistake until the pans were in the oven. It turned out more like pie crust than shortbread. But, despite that, I am not sure about the taste. I think it was all just a little too much. So, I am not making another recipe and I will probably not keep that one. I love shortbread, but I am not sure I am able to make a good one. Maybe I will try again later.

Anyway, I am moving on to Cherry Chocolate Cookie Cups. These have Amaretto!!

On the knitting front, I have finished a few things and finally gotten some pictures.

Girasole by Jared Flood

Dotty Baby Blanket from Mason-Dixon Knittig

Beaumont Tam by Jared Flood

Modern Baby Blanket from Mason-Dixon Knitting

There have been a few other little things to do in a care package to Seattle...and a new little boy-child that I can't wait to meet. I have a couple of pairs of socks on the needles and am thinking about what should be next. I have a whole bunch of a cotton blend that I think will be a sweater...as it didn't work out as a skirt. And, I have curtains to sew, a blouse to make, and a craft room to try and get cleaned out and organized. So, lots to do.

Ishbel

2009-11-10T16:14:00.000-06:00

So, there was this KAL for Breast Cancer Awareness in October. We got the same sock yarn and were going to knit pink socks. I tried. Really, I did. But, the yarn just wasn't saying it wanted to be socks. Instead, it's dream was to be a little pink shawl. So, that's what it became!

Ishbel, by Ysolda Teague. I used 1 1/2 skeins Lorna's Laces Sock in the Pink Flamingo colorway.

I am enchanted.

Greater Gulf Coast Arts Festival

2009-11-05T10:10:00.000-06:00

This weekend. And I will be spinning with the Pensacola Heritage people. Here's the website:

www.ggaf.org

Hope to see you there!

Back from SAFF...gearing up for winter...

2009-11-05T10:08:00.000-06:00

Winter in Pensacola lasts for about a week...when the temps get really cold...but that won't stop me from getting my sweaters, hats, scarves, and various and sundry woolly items out to wear.

But the lack of truly cold weather doesn't stop me from knitting! Oh no...i have moved to plant fibers like cotton and bamboo in the summers and stick with wool blends for winter. I am still going to wear my knitted socks and my sweaters...just won't have to worry so much about a coat. It's and adjustment, but I will get used to it again.

Anyway, back from SAFF and a couple of days in Atlanta...I wanted to share some of my acquisitions...

Knit Witch Cassiopeia in Red for a shawl...maybe with beads.

Miss Babs Yummy Sock and baby yarn in Crazy B

Sanguine Gryphon "Bugga" in Orange Assassin Bug. This is sock yarn that is Merino/Cashmere/Nylon. I manged to felt my orange cable socks. This will replace them!

Hanks Yarn and Fiber "Perhaps Today is a Good Day to Dye" BFL Sock Hogtown. That's what's on the label. I am calling it my Gator Sock Yarn. And I will be making socks that will be for Saturdays during the SEC season! Go Gators!

Kitchen Sink Dyeworks Merino Fine "Maureen"

Now, I have a friend named Maureen who plays tennis, and this just reminded me of her. Not sure yet what this will turn into...

Miss Babs again! Color "Nell". Mom really liked this, so it may be destined for her, but we will see.

Sheep earrings. They are glass beads and I love them!

Dragonfly Fibers "Sistine Colorway"

Superwash Merino and Silk!

My new High Speed Flier for my wheel.

On which, I spun this:

Mermaid's Wool, Merino/Seacell "neapolitan"

about 290 yards!

There were a few other things...but some are for Christmas...so not sharing them here. Overall, I had a great time and am already planning for next year!

On the Road Again...

2009-10-21T22:27:00.000-05:00

like a band of gypsies, we go down the highway...

It's that time of year. I am headed to SAFF again. What could be better? Yarn, friends, yarn, Asheville, yarn, cabin in the woods...and did I mention YARN????

So, I am pretty much packed. Will hit the road early in the morning, and by tomorrow afternoon, will be in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina!

Has it really been that long?

2009-10-08T20:30:00.002-05:00

I am around...been working hard on several not so secret projects...and getting very close to finishing. Don't have pictures yet to post, but am going to try to get some taken soon so i can get them posted.

I have an event coming up that I am pretty stoked about. I have been asked to participate in Centennial Days at the West Florida Railroad Museum. I am going to be spinning with my wheel on the Platform at the museum. It should be fun, and at least I will be able to get some spinning done!

And SAFF is coming up at the end of the month! 4 days in the mountains, and I have taken off a few extra days so I am going to be able to hit a couple of my favorite places in Atlanta, before I come home. Trader Joe's, OK Cafe, Ikea...

Oh, and I am totally addicted to Farmville on Facebook!

That's all for now...just a quick update.

Haiku

2009-08-18T16:04:00.003-05:00

These were written by a non-knitting British friend of mine. Thank you Dawn!

Oh what tangled web we weave,
When first we learned to use long pointy sticks
dangerous

short sofa, laughing lady
long pointy sticks
knitting

yarn tangled, cat plays
lady with long pointy sticks
pokes it

So, I don't know if these exactly qualify as Haiku, but I thought they were good attempts!

Really?

2009-08-01T23:49:00.001-05:00

Just had to share this. I think he crossed a knitter as a child and the whole experience made a lasting impression. Knitting Threat

From the comfort of my couch...

2009-08-01T10:07:00.005-05:00

I am blogging this...I got the wireless set up. Thanks Sherrie for your advise and Laurie for your encouragement. Can't get my iphone to pick up the home network...but working on that. Anyway, now I can roam around the house and use my laptop! Yay!!!

So, here are some before and after pictures of Millie the dog...
When she gets like this, I call her scruff. She was about a week overdue for her grooming and was stinky and scruffy.

In a matter of a couple of hours, she is back to being Millie and looking like a proper dog again! And she is not nearly as sti

New baby...

2009-07-31T22:14:00.003-05:00

This post is brought to you by way of a wireless connection and my new baby Mac.

Now back to our regular programming...

And the Knit goes on...

2009-07-22T19:48:00.003-05:00

2 more finished objects...

Uhura, made with Unique Sheep Pima Petite in Strawberry, 4 skeins, from Eat.Sleep.Knit Love this top! had to do some adjusting on the pattern for the top, but otherwise, I am very happy with it. And can we talk about the yarn? One word. YUMMY! Thanks again Erin!

Millefiore Cardigan from Interweave Knits, Spring 2009 I used Rowan Cashsoft Baby DK, in Pink. Thanks Katey! And give Trav a hug for me. I will always remember his mom when I wear this. Oh, and I still have 1 ball left! I shortened the sleeves for my new warmer environment, but I have already worn it a couple of times and it is the perfect weight to take the a/c chill off.

Started on a new top...waiting for some hemp to come in for a skirt...and thinking about a baby blanket, and have a couple of sewing projects in mind...Oh, and working on Socks for Soldiers. Keeping busy with work and Seasons 1-5 of NCIS! Looking forward to September and October when it cools down a bit.

Hot, Hot, Hot

2009-07-16T08:53:00.004-05:00

And not in a good way...we are full on into summer in the Panhandle and with temps in the 90's and humidity at 1000% it feels pretty close to being on the surface of the sun without the burning feet. Anyway, around here, we have become NCIS addicts and have even made the investment of buying seasons 1-5 so that we can watch at our leisure and not have to deal with commercials. And, I have been knitting.

I am currently working on Uhura from Twist Collective. I love, love, love the sweater, but have had to do some reworking of the lace top. Adjusting decreases and reworking the back so it's not so huge. I am using Unique Sheep' Pima Petite in Strawberry that I got from the lovely folks and Eat.Sleep.Knit. (thanks again Erin)I hope to have pictures soon.

Probably going to see Harry Potter tonight. Definitely going with a group from the Tuesday knitting group from Yarnside Gathering next Tuesday. Looking forward to it.

Nothing much else going on. I ordered my new laptop and should have it by the end of the month. I am going with Apple this time and will see how it goes. No other really big plans, though. Just working and knitting and trying not to succumb to heat exhaustion. I don't have a lot of pictures of anything right now, but I will leave you with this. My nemisisesesses(i can't eve be bothered to look up the plural, its just too hot), the big toad that live under the house. It has cloned itself and there are many other little toads around. ICK.

Sorry for no links. I just couldn't find the energy...

Edited to add:

I forgot to post pictures of my finished Rusted Root. Silly me...

crazy drivers and birthday cake

2009-06-16T13:06:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I was on the phone this weekend with Laurie this weekend and I saw this...

There was only a driver in the car, so i guess they had the door bungeed shut. But, at some point, a car is not driveable. Obviously, this one isn't there yet...

On a tastier note....BIRTHDAY CAKE!!

That's Red Velvet Pound cake and it was delicious. The ribs and all the rest didn't last long enough for me to get a picture of!

The grass is always greener....

2009-06-12T10:31:00.003-05:00

over the septic tank! Or, pinker, as the case may be...

Can you see where the septic tank is buried? Normally, it's very green...but this morning, mom noticed something weird. There is a weed that has bright pink flowers that is growing over the septic tank and only in that one spot. Weird.

In other news, here is my new hair. This isn't a great picture. I had to take it in the bathroom, so I could see what I was doing, but the light isn't great in there...it makes my hair look kind of orange, but it's really more blond. And, it's all one length now.

Anyway, today is my birthday and we are having a little family bbq. I am making ribs and mom is baking a red velvet pound cake. Will let you know how it turns out. I haven't been home for my birthday in years so this will be nice.

Also, WWKIP day is tomorrow. I will be at the B&N on Airport Blvd with some of the local knitters here. Should be fun. I have a new project to work on. Finished the main knitting on the cardi. Needs to be blocked and finished. Started the Rusted Root sweater this morning. Will work on that tomorrow, along with a pair of socks for soldiers. Happy Knitting!

If the roaches don't do it for ya...

2009-06-08T09:35:00.006-05:00

Maybe this will...

I took a couple of hours and went out to the beach Sunday morning, before it got to crowded. I know the video is a bit shaky, but there were dolphins out there! The water was very cool and clear as a bell. Unfortunately, there were also jellyfish, so I only got my feet wet. I did, however, get a bit red. Not painfully, but I am no longer pasty white. It was a nice morning...here is a still picture... Oh, and got my hair highlighted and cut. It's all one length and has A LOT of blond in it!

Mutant ninja flying roaches

2009-06-05T10:51:00.001-05:00

Mutant ninja flying roaches
Originally uploaded by anunmaker

I have no ideas where these things came in from, but they fly and dive bomb and are very susceptible to Raid. I killed 3 of them last night...i thought it was a full on invasion...

So, it's a little late...

2009-06-03T16:40:00.002-05:00

...but better late than never. In the few months I had to pack up, I frequently found Prue sleeping in the weirdest places. Here she is in my dresser drawer.

The last couple of weeks, she took to getting into her carrying case. I guess she knew she was going on a little trip.

This is my life. In boxes. In the garage. My brother and I got the truck unloaded. I fell off the truck. I hit myself in the face with a table top. And, dropped a bed frame on my leg. But, there was no blood and I survived. So all is good. I have rifled through the kitchen boxes, and have most of my clothes out. I have no idea what to do next. It's very overwhelming. I want to have a garage sale, but I need to go through the stuff so that I can decide what to sell. Vicious circle really. Anyway, I need to get everything cleaned out so I can get to my craft stuff and my sewing machines and yarn. I have fabric for a skirt and a bunch of yarn with projects in mind. I just need to put my hands on it.

I want to landscape in the back yard, but that is going to be a project for next spring, I expect. I have been cleaning up some of the plants that were already out there. This is a gardenia that mom swore was dead. I was out in the back the other day and noticed some green, and it wasn't weeds. So I cut off all the dead stuff and hopefully, the poor thing will make a full recovery.

This is my Topsy turvy with a lone tomato in it. I don't know how it's going to do. I think I shocked it when I planted it. But, we will see. The stem is strong and has started to turn up, so I think we are safe.

This is the neighbors pool. They are doing a major landscape around it. I can't wait for it to be finished.

This is the view from my office. I can see a few plants that are in the front yard, but it's pretty plain.
My friend is pregnant. She is having a boy. She made a call for a nick name. Instead of calling him the baby who shall not be named, I have been calling him Jim Bob...I am sure she doesn't appreciate it, but until I am told otherwise, it's Jim Bob! Anyway, I have been knitting. This is the Pea Coat from Debbie Bliss. I used Second Time Cotton for it. It's really cute. I was glad to found some military style buttons for it and I think they are immensely cute. Now, to wash and block.

This was for a teacher at mom's school. Mom wanted something pink, so I obliged, even though I wanted to do some crazy color. I don't know the name of the pattern off hand, but will find it and add it to Ravelry. The mom-to-be loved it! Mahalo, Mrs. Kim!

That's it really. Working from home is different, but I am getting along. It's quiet here, and that's nice. I have been busy, so the time goes buy pretty quickly.

Oh, and I am getting my hair colored this weekend. The gray is really showing and I want it to be lightened up a lot!!!

I feel like a prarie dog...

2009-05-29T08:30:00.003-05:00

Yeah, I am in Pensacola. I am back to work. I am knitting. I am not unpacked. And, mostly, I don't want to do much of anything. I just wanted to poke my head up out of the nice little hole I have made for myself to say hello! I am here, I made it. I will try to do a proper post this weekend.

Time marches on...

2009-04-29T13:25:00.004-05:00

Ok, so it was only a few short weeks ago that I made the decision to move back to Pensacola. In about a week, it will be time to move. Again. For good. It seems weird that I am moving back to the house I grew up in. Back to the heat and humidity that I fled as soon as I could. Back to a place that I thought I would always call home, but never thought I would live in again. And, oddly, I am kind of looking forward to it! I could have moved sooner, but I wanted to wait until Stitches was over. That was last weekend. So, it's time to get packed and get outta here.

I am, however, going to miss my friends terribly. I have told them over and over that they have to come visit, and SOON! I am coming back up in October for SAFF, so that's something to look forward to. It's going to be strange to not see the girls for Wednesday knitting. Or, Sunday knitting. I have made some new friends in P'cola, and reconnected with some old friends. I am on the look out for a new church so I can reconnect that way. And, I have my family to keep me entertained.

So, I probably won't post again until I get back home, as the next few days are going to be filled with work, packing, and good-bye dinners. I wanted to share a few of the goodies I got at Stitches and an FO or 2...

First, Stitches...

New FO's...

And, here's Prue, making herself at home...

Wee little sweaters...

2009-04-15T14:42:00.002-05:00

Well, sweaters for a wee one who has yet to make her appearance. I made a couple of baby sweaters for my manager's daughter, who is due at the end of the month. I used Dark Horse Fantasy yarn, which is an acrylic/nylon blend. I don't want to hear the about babies and acrylic...I KNOW. But for practical purposes, the sweaters need to be easy care. And this stuff was incredibly soft. I couldn't believe it!

Here they are, both are EZ patterns. You can figure them out.

Specimen 1:

Extreme button close up...

Specimen 2:

I love both of these very much, especially the ladybug buttons. I keep saying I am going to have to make something for myself that I can put these buttons on...they are so cute!

I have a few other things I am working on. (Don't I always) But, none are ready to share yet.

Oh, and gearing up to move back to Florida. It's getting down to the wire with just a few weeks left. Have I started to pack, you may ask. Well that answer would be no, no I haven't. I have boxes. Just no energy! But I have a plan...

Crap! Has it really been that long?

2009-04-01T08:00:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that the last time I posted was the end of February, but there it is in black and white. So much has happened since then. Where to start?

Well, the big, big news is that I (along with my family) have decided that my place is back in Florida. So, in May (after Stitches South) I am finally moving home. I have been away for about 13 years, and while at times I miss it, I never thought I would be going back now. But, things change and the time is right.

My stint in Florida in February went well. Mom is doing fine. We have made some adjustments to the house, and she has adapted to use of the electric chair well. She only uses it when she is working or shopping, or having to go long distances. Around the house she is walking. So, good news on that front.

I will have a job when I get home. My current work is allowing me to go virtual. yea! So that means I will still have insurance and all that. And it gives me some time to get acclimated.

On the knitting front, I have been really productive. While I was away, I finished one sweater and got halfway through another. I took a lot of yarn with me, and bought some too! Here is the first finished sweater, the Soap Bubbles Wrap from Interweave.

It's made from Cascade Sierra Quattro that was a gift from AmyD. I knew I wanted a sweater or cardi out of this yarn and I was just about to cast on for something simple when the Soap Bubble Wrap came up as a free pattern on Interweave. The yarn is a cotton blend, so it's perfect for spring/fall, even in Florida!

This is the Tomato Sweater (from No Sheep For You) which was offered for free on Knitting Daily. I bought the exact yarn called for at Yarnside Gathering in Pensacola. I am so happy with this. It's cotton and I wear it with Jeans right now. It will be perfect for Florida as well.

I wasn't home a couple of weeks and this happened.

I got backed into in my parking garage at work. That's the kind of damage a spare tire can do. Anyway, I dealt with Geico to get it fixed. And, I have to say that was one of the easiest thing I have done. I took it in, about 6 days later, it was fixed and looking beautiful. They even washed my truck and revealed the lovely, shiny wheels that I have not seen for years! I had almost forgotten they were there. About 2 days after I got it back, the starter quit. I knew it was coming. It had been making weird noises for ages. My brother even said it was going, and it finally did. So, another day without my truck. Thanks to Laurie for letting me use her car! Again! Now, it's back and running pretty well. If I can just get it home before anything else goes wrong, I will be eternally grateful!

The nasty cold I had turned into a round of antibiotics, which I think finally did the trick. I got to see my best friend from Texas last weekend. And I haven't done any packing whatsoever!

Instead, I have been designing a new felted bag. I was looking for a new knitting bag/travel bag and i wanted something big. I also knew that I wanted to make it green and tan. So, I bought the yarn in Florida and then started looking around for inspiration.

The yarn is held double, the base is in garter, the sides in stockinette. The construction is fairly simple. The Fair Isle pattern is from Vogue Knitting Stitchionary 3, 113 Pomegranate.

The top edge is in garter, too. I felted the bag and a funny thing happened. The color work area drew in more than the top and bottom. The whole thing is kind of wonky. I think somehow, I knew this would happen, as color work is not as stretchy as plain knitting. The whole thing is drying now, but I am thinking about taking it back to the washer and just felting the top part of the bag and see if that draws it up any more. May do the same with the bottom. It can’t hurt, right?

Sorry this is so long. I need to get back to work. Have a great week.

pluggin' along

2009-02-26T05:38:00.002-06:00

Hey all! Thanks for the well wishes. Mom continues to improve. She uses the electric chair for any long distances and her walker or cane for school or home. This weekend, we ventured out to the nearby outlet mall and were able to traverse the whole thing. It's huge, and I practically had to run to keep up! Mom would turn that thing up to high and off she would go, with me chasing after her telling her to slow down. She is much better about turning around and manuevering in tight spots. This was good practice.

The knitting keeps on coming. I am working full force on the Soap Bubble sweater and am in the final stretch, up to the sleeves on the back. Can't wait to have that finished.

I did, however, finish up the lace bag and it is on its way to the intended recipient. Here was the final product.

The whole thing.

Detail of the lace.

The inside is blue satin. It's actually flannel on the back. I just grabbed a remnant and was surprised. It helped the lining not to move while I was sewing it!

Anyway, I am doing another spinning demo today for kindergarten. I still have a cold, but I have not hit my head anymore! My truck has been to a couple of different doctors, and it's running better than ever. I still need to get it out on the road and really test it.

That's all for now. Need to go and get ready for school. Have a good day!

Taking a break, not really...

2009-02-22T17:26:00.003-06:00

So, about 2 1/2 weeks ago, I got a call from Mom. She took a bit of a fall coming into the house. She is alright, no broken bones, but she is unsure of her knees right now. That, combined with a pinched nerve that will eventually require surgery, has changed the way she gets around.

She needed help. I came home for a few weeks. I am taking leave from work to help her out. She is getting used to her new routine, but this has made me decide that this will be my last year in Atlanta. My next move will definitely be to Pensacola, but as for when, not sure about that yet. Things need to be arranged. Plans need to be made. And for right now, we are just taking it one day at a time, and one week at a time.

Mom is getting around at school in an electric chair. She is a terror on wheels and the kids (and other teachers) jump out of the way when she comes screaming down the halls! My brother and I have already decided to trick the chair out with flames...since she is a speed demon. Around the house, she is using a walker. We got a ramp for the front door and need to equip the other doors as well. Here is a picture of my brother in the electric chair, doing donuts:

When not cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, playing chauffeur, and being a classroom assistant to a bunch of first graders, I have gotten some knitting done.
This is the Painted Diamonds Bag from Knit One, Crochet Too. Mom picked out the pattern at Yarnside Gathering, a new LYS in Pensacola. I started after I got down here and finished it in a week. I used 5 shades of Plymouth Tweed and 1 skein of Noro to do the mitered squares. Thanks again to AmyD for the yarn. I had a local leather shop cut the handles and I lined it with a great floral remnant I found at JoAnn's.

Mom loves it, and carried it last week. I think I may try to steal it back. I love it too!

Here is the Delft Pillow from IK Holiday 2008. I used a skein of Colinette Jitterbug in the Peacock colorway, and a skein for Brown Sheep Wildfoote in Vinca Manor.

The construction on this was a little confusing at first, but once I got the hang of it, it was no problem. I am beginning to really love color work. Well, Fair Isle at least. Still not sure about Intarsia.

I found the buttons at JoAnn's again. They have all the different shades in the pillow and kind of change with the light.

This is going to be a wedding gift.

Since this picture, I have shaped it into a little clutch and sewed the lining. I need some snaps to sew in and it will be finished. I will be sending it off this week.

Socks, as always!

They are the Pink Panther colorway from TV Knits yarn. I got it at SAFF in 2007 and finally got around to knitting it up.

I did the cuff in cable instead of ribbing. Not sure how I feel about these, now that they are done. They may be given away.

I have started a new sweater from Spring 2009 IK. It's called the Soap Bubbles Sweater and I am using some Cascade Sierra Quattro that I got a while back from AmyD. Thanks yet again! Here is a the left front done.

I am loving this. I have finished the right front and just have the back to do now. Hopefully I will be able to wear it before it gets too warm.

So, I mentioned Yarnside Gathering earlier. I have to tell you that this place has been a godsend. Molly is the owner and she is fantastic. I have been attending Knit night on Tuesdays and have met some really nice people. I was introduced to some incredible Vegetarian food last week...mighty tasty! I wanted to say a quick word of thanks for letting me crash your party! Oh, and I bought some yarn....(oh come on, you know I was going to buy some!) I want to make the Tomato Sweater. Molly had the yarn it calls for. I choose baby blue and navy for accent. What do you think?

I also picked up a skein of Pagewood Farms Yukon sock yarn. It's a bamboo/wool blend and a dream to knit with.

Now, don't think that I have been a complete slacker. I have been working to log a bunch of volunteer hours at the school, and I have helped sew together some doggie blankets for the local humane society. I also have some battle scars to show for my efforts. Since I have been home (just 2 weeks) I have hit my head twice on the lift for Mom's chair. The last one almost knocked me out. I bumped my head today on the refrigerator. I had a lice scare. (yes, you heard me) I had to have the school nurse check me out. Thank goodness, I didn't get them. For the first time in over a year, I have gotten a cold. And, I think one of my teeth has a cavity. Mom wonders why I don't want to move back. Gee, I wonder why???

So, I am sure there is more that I could post, but this is getting too long as it is. I miss everyone, and hope to be back soon.

Oh, and HAPPY MARDI GRAS! LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!

Mi casa es su casa.

2009-01-23T10:03:00.005-06:00

Knitting this week was at my place. The girls got me a house warming gift. They are awesome and so was the gift basket, or bowl as the case may be. Both Nina and Ellen played paparazzi. Here are a few pics from Nina:

Cornered in my kitchen. Dinner was Chicken Parisienne in the crockpot with noodles and salad. And yes, that is the Kiki Mariko Rug from the second Mason Dixon book on the floor.
Laurie, who doesn't eat vegis and only buys them for her bunnies, made the salad. It was excellent.
Then there were cupcakes. Blogless Jennifer made them. The cupcake holder was for me. The cupcakes were yummy.
I don't know...you think these people are trying to tell me something? Mixing bowl, cake mixes, frosting....
Blogless Jennifer, Laurie and Ellen were trying to figure out a crochet pattern. It was cold, hence the blanket and EZ shawl on Jennifer's head.

And finally, me and Prue. She kept getting shocked when she would come near me and she really doesn't like to be held. After this picture, she took off and I didn't see her until bedtime.

So, a good time was had by all. Thanks to everyone for the lovely gifts and the good company. I can't wait to bake!

Morgan

2009-01-16T11:01:00.003-06:00

Morgan caught my eye when it came out on Knitty a while back. Then a couple of friends knit it and it was really cute. I had some gray tweedy hand spun that was screaming to be this hat. So, I made it. It was a bit of a challenge, but I was able to knit it up in just a couple of days. And, I liked it. It was soft and tweedy and very smart looking. I don't know what made me think it would look good on me. That particular style of hat has never worked on me. Even when I was a little girl and would steal my dad's driving cap...I always thought it looked kind of weird.

Well, times have not changed. I got the thing all finished and put it on and immediately decided that it wasn't for me. Oh well. I learned some new techniques, so it wasn't a complete waste. My plan was to either give it to one of my guy friends or slip it in a goodwill box (see previous post).

Wednesday came around and I met with my Snarky group at our usual Starbucks. I got there and tried on the hat for a couple of the girls that were there already. They agreed that this was not the hat for me. So, back into the knitting bag it went.

Now, I have to say that the guys that work at the Starbucks are really good sports. We invade their shop every Wednesday and never fail to give them all a hard time. This particular week, they were all being very noisy and and we, as per usual, were calling them out on it. Eben made a smart remark about us shutting up and knitting him a hat...so I gave him the Morgan. It looks much better on him than it ever did on me...don't you think?

Turns out, he was up north the next weekend and got locked out of the place he was staying at very disagreeable time, and in the cold and the hat really came in handy!

Edited to add (per KateyJ's suggestion): He's single and cute as a button!

On Moving

2009-01-14T08:31:00.003-06:00

I am moved into my new apartment! It took 4 days and hiring a couple of guys with a big truck, but it's done. (I think that's the best money I ever spent!!!) And I am glad for that. Now I am going through my stuff as I unpack and trying to thin things out. You really don't realize how much you have until you put it all in boxes. I though I had 3 bins with yarn...turns out I have that plus 3 more boxes. How in the world did that happen? Well, we all know how it happened, so I guess the next move is to get knitting.

In addition, there is all the other sewing and crafting stuff. This new place has 2 less closets. So, I am trying to find places for everything. I have a screened in porch, but it's too cold to do much with it right now. I have a wood burning fireplace. I need to clean it out then I can put a log on the fire. Maybe this weekend. The bookshelves are up, and the books are unpacked. So, the living room is mostly cleared out. The couch is in the right place, as is the chair and I put up the dining room table. It's starting to look more like home.

I have some ideas for storage, and utilizing all the space I have. We will see if I can do all I plan to. Mostly, it means more shelves all over the place. I want to take some pictures, but I have to find my camera first. I also have to find my plates and coffee cups!

So, through all this, I have been knitting. Working on just a couple of projects, but dreaming of new ones. I am almost done with Mom's new socks and have plans for a second pair. I think I am going to do these. I like the eyelets and the yarn mom picked is variegated, so the simpler the pattern, the better. I will let you know how it goes.

So, that's basically it for now.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-02T07:34:00.003-06:00

Everyone seems to be taking time out to reflect on last year and look at what the future may hold. This year has been difficult, to say the least, and I am ready to move on. I am looking forward 2009, and whatever challenges it may bring.

With that said, I have learned that I have a great circle of friends here and around the country (knitting and non-knitting) and they have come to be my extended family. I thank God for you all every day. You all know who you are, and I just want to say thank you for all your love and support this year. Cheers to 2009!

All that being said, two very dear little people have asked me to teach them to knit! Can anyone recommend a learn to knit book geared toward kids? I would like them to have some sort of reference so that they can practice without me there. One has a birthday coming up and I was worried about what to get him....not anymore!!!!

So, this was just to be a quick update. I have some FO's to share, but need to get some photographs. That will have to wait. I am packing up to move to a new apartment. Once I am settled in, I will try to get back to more regular posts.

Happy New Year everyone! Be safe...

PS...David, thank you...I feel the same way!

The Incredible Flying Jilly!

2008-12-17T08:09:00.003-06:00

So, The Pattern Slave, the west coast contingent of the Snarky's, and Jilly, our mascot came for a visit this past weekend. It was a working visit and several of us rallied to do some painting and such. I put my theoretical knowledge of changing electrical fixtures to practice. One word of advice, flip the breaker to the whole house before you grab any live wires...just sayin'. We worked for 2 days and rewarded ourselves with a night out at La Paz. They have very nice tortilla soup. KateyJ entertained the Jilly. May I introduce the Incredible Flying Jilly Bean!

So, I have a couple of finished objects in the past few days. The pictures are not great, but to my defense, the lighting at the Starbucks is not great. I am going to try to get some better ones later.

This is Laurie's finished Landon sweater. I used 13 balls of Cash Vero in this beautiful Cobalt. It was the perfect yarn for this project. Laurie supplied the yarn, I bought the pattern and a sweater was born. The other 2 pictures are a bit off in color, but you can see the front detail a bit better.

This is a hat and neck warmer made for a friend in South Carolina. I followed a pattern for the neck warmer, but the hat is mine. I used the twisted moss stitch pattern and modified it for a hat in the round. I used some handspun merino that I have been holding onto especially for this person. Merry Christmas!

Finally, I finished my Kiki Mariko mat for my kitchen. I love this. Once it felted, the yarn was so fluffy that it's a nice cushion on the kitchen floor. I have a bit of yarn left over, and I am thinking about a bag. Not sure yet. Maybe I will try for something different.

I don't know if I will have time to post between now and Christmas, so I want to take a minute to wish everyone a safe and happy Holiday season.

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people;

for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:10-11

Happy Little Trees

2008-12-08T07:30:00.002-06:00

So, this is one of the many projects I have been working on for Christmas. The tall tree is mine for the apartment. The rest are for my co-workers. (D. yours is in the mail...) The pattern is from Mason-Dixon Knitting 2. If I haven't said it before, I love those books. There are so many practical patterns to make that, pretty soon, my whole place is going to be covered in knitting. Of course, that's not a bad thing!

The weekend was busy. I got out the sewing machine and serger on Saturday and completed 5 projects, 4 of which were Christmas presents. Good, now I can cross those off the list. Just a couple of more things to go, and Christmas crafting is done!

Sunday, our regular knitting group did a little potluck dinner and swap. This was fun. I had Amanda as my swap spoilee...so I made a few things.
A project bag. Thanks to KateyJ for the fabric. Yes, it has skulls on it. For the outside, the crossbones are knitting needles. For the inside, scissors! I am not a huge fan of skulls, but as I worked with this, I grew to appreciate the cute factor. And, I knew Amanda would love it.
Hand dyed sock yarn.
Homemade peppermint bark, thanks to Paula Deene! I layered up semi sweet chocolate with the white. It was a sucess!
And finally, some festive stitch markers. I have been obsessed with bead snowmen, since I something similar in a book store in Pensacola over Thanksgiving. I finally got out my beads and improvised these. I had enough for the stitch markers and a pair of earrings. The earrings I kept for myself!

Finally, I joined a yahoo group called Socks for Soldiers a while back. I actually knit 2 pair of socks, but one pair felted terribly, so I had to toss them. I sent the sucessful pair off along with some goodies. Around Thanksgiving, I got a letter. Needless to say, it was the incentive I needed to get to work on another pair!

Busy Little Bee, episode 2

2008-11-15T10:18:00.005-06:00

So, SAFF was at the end of October this year. Several of the Snarky Crew rented a house and spent the weekend, including our West Coast affiliate and the Mascot...you know who you are.

Here is the sales floor. Lots of yarny and related goodness to behold. I was good, I had a list of things I wanted to get. Once that was finished, then I could buy some fun stuff. I also entered several skeins of hand spun for judging.

Here is my 3rd place ribbon in the novice category. I was so excited to see the skein, that I almost forgot what else I submitted! I received a lovely pair of Alpaca socks from one of the vendors in attendance as a prize.

Now, what did it buy?
Well, this is a hand thrown yarn bowl from Knit Witch. Her husband does the ceramics and she dyes yarn and roving, all tucked away in the North Georgia. She has an amazing eye for color and I was nearly taken in by many of her colors, but I was able to restrain myself. This bowl, however, spoke to me in a clear loud voice that I just couldn't ignore.

Some gorgeous roving that I can't wait to spin.

This was about the best deal I think I managed! I bought 3 hanks of 8oz each merino for $15 a piece. I have 24 oz to spin and I hope to have enough for a sweater. I have 1/2 of the first hank spun into a single.

This stuff is so soft and it spins so easily. It's a long process, but I am hoping to get about a DK-worsted weight 2 ply that I can do a very easy sweater in. Perhaps something from Mason-Dixon? And yes, I got a couple of new spindles for my Louet S-10. I love the 3 ratios...

Anyway, Christmas is only around the corner and I have a few projects planned. These fabrics are for 2 very special kids. There is a third I need to plan for, but I still have some time. I just need to sit down and sew now!

So, I think that brings things up to date. There is always more going on, but I really do need to get some things done. So, signing off for now.

Busy Little Bee, episode 1

2008-11-15T09:42:00.004-06:00

That's what I've been. I have been knitting up a storm and finally got around to taking some pictures.

There's a new baby about to make his appearance. I thought he needed to be warm!

So, the first is the L'illo pattern from Knitty.com Fall 2008. I wanted to make something that would make him fit right in to the family during football season, hence it's in USC Gamecock colors. (At least the closest I could get) Used Knitpicks Swish DK in Garnet Heather and Cobblestone Heather.

This sweater and hat are for the same baby, although he may not be able to wear them until next year! The sweater is EZ's Baby Surprise, but I worked it in stockinette instead of garter. I like the result. The yarn is Dream in Color Classy in Beach Fog. Again, it's superwash. The hat was my own quick design. Both still need their buttons and to be washed, but then they will be on their way.

I recently acquired the new Mason-Dixon book. There are several things in there that I want to try. This is my first mostly complete object.

This is "Swifty" made out of kitchen cotton for my Swiffer. I still need buttons for it, but I think it will do nicely!

This is my "Kiki Mariko" rug in progress. Last year at Saff, Laurie and I split a 5 pound bag of undyed rug wool. It took until this year to figure out what to do with my 2.5 pounds. So, I divided it up in the amounts called for in the pattern, and dyed all of them.

These are most of the colors I used. Not pictured is emerald green and dark brown. Anyway, I dyed everything and started knitting. When I finish or run out of yarn, the whole thing will be felted and trimmed up. I think this will be my new kitchen floor mat. I love the bright colors and the Fair Isle goes very quickly. I have 3 color sequence repeats done. I think 3 more and I should be good to go.

This is Landon, or part of it anyway. I am knitting it for the aforementioned Laurie, with her yarn. I wanted to knit it, but I didn't have any sweater quantity that I could use. Laurie did and jokingly suggested I knit it for her. So, I, not jokingly, agreed! It's Cashvero in a lovely electric blue. It's going to look great on her when I get it finished. Now, I have the pattern, I can save it for later and make one for me too!

I have more to share, but I figured this post would be long enough. More to add later!

I am around..

2008-11-10T08:02:00.002-06:00

Things have been crazy in this part of the world. Since the end of October and SAFF, things feel like they have been non-stop. We are in our cubes at work! Praise God for that! I have been out of town for a couple of weekends. Looking for a new apartment, and gearing up for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have lots on my plate, but am thankful for it. So, with that said, I have a few things to share, and will get them posted when I can.

The answer to life, the universe and everything

2008-11-10T07:53:00.000-06:00

more music charts

I blinked and it was October!

2008-10-05T18:56:00.005-05:00

Yes, I have been busy. Hurricane season hit with a bang, and between traveling right when Gustav hit and then Hannah and Ike roaring in like off an assembly line, I have been working quite a lot and haven't had much time to update. Not to mention, my computer caught a bug and needed major surgery. A HUGE THANK YOU to Sherrie for all your advice, and to Casey for being a great doctor. It's thanks to those two that I didn't have a complete and irreversible meltdown. We are recovering nicely and see a bright future, at least until I can afford to get a new computer.

Now, down to business. I have been knitting quite a bit and have some FO's to share. These aren't all, and I hope to get the others photographed and posted in the near future.

One was Hey, Teach! from Knitty. I almost never make sweaters for other people. It's a lot of work for something that might not be appreciated. But, this time I made and exception. (Wendy and Kelly, I still have your's on queue.) Maryanne is like a sister and her birthday was coming up. I had no clue what to get her, so I decided to let her pick some stash yarn that she liked and I promised her a sweater. I told her I would find the pattern to go with whatever she chose. She chose some leftover Silkroad DK Tweed in a lovely lavender and decided on Hey, Teach! as the perfect sweater for the amount of yarn I had. (It wasn't quite enough for long sleeves!) So, this is how it turned out. Maryanne modeled for me, but asked that I not show her face...thus the headless shot.

For myself, I finished theFebruary Lady's Sweater out of the same Silkroad DK, but in dark green. I love this sweater!!! I don't know what else to say about it...

I really have been busy with lots of small projects, none of which I have photographed. A friend has a baby on the way, so I have started the baby knitting. I have done a little bit of dyeing as well. Here are the last 2 attempts. The first is an attempt to capture Key Lime Pie. I don't think I was too successful, as the green is a bit loud, and the brown is too dark for a proper graham cracker crust, but, hey, it's all and experiment, right?

This one was turquoise, pink and orange, I think. I can't really remember now, but I love how it worked out and can't wait to spin it up.

Anyway, that's where I have been. Working hard and knitting to help keep some sanity in place. At least, with all the stress, I have been pretty darn productive. Hope to have more to share soon.

No, I haven't been there...

2008-09-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

You Are Argentina

You are a set of contradictions, and it often seems like you live in two worlds.

You are introspective yet outgoing. You are modern yet traditional.

You are warm and honest. Your life is petty much an open book.

You are a hard worker, and you don't mind putting in long hours. And then you'll go party til dawn!

What Country Are You?

But, yeah, mostly it's right.

Tacky Tourist Day

2008-08-12T21:20:00.002-05:00

So, every year in mid-August, my company holds Employee Appreciation Week. It usually is a week where we get to let our proverbial hair down. It's a bit of fun, and relaxing (especially of the dress code), and a lot of eating! So, this year's theme is Paradise Beach. Yesterday was a BBQ. Today was Tacky Tourist Tuesday. Initially, I really didn't think I had much to contribute. I mean, I had my Hawaiian style shirt that I made for a Jimmy Buffet concert, and I am always wearing my Birk's...but what else was there. Then I started hunting around my apartment and this is what I came up with:

I really think the yellow coat and bad hat really set the whole thing off. Of course, you can't see my Route 66 pin and cowboy hat earrings that completed the ensemble.

We are allowed to wear shorts and T's the rest of the week, but I about froze today. Think it's back to jeans for me for the remainder.

Remember that red, white, and blue hand dyed roving? Well, I spun it up last week. I must say, I am very pleased. The red matches my winter coat beautifully, so I think this will become a scarf. What do you think?

It's late. signing off for now. Have a great week!

Oh, and I have 2 words for you: Stitches South!!!

And now for a real post...

2008-08-04T10:03:00.005-05:00

It's August in Georgia. 'Nuff said? It's hot. As. Blazes. So, I stayed in as much as possible again this weekend. I got some projects finished. Enough that I only had one thing on the needles and was feeling like I was in a bit of a funk. I am not a one project at a time kind of girl and I was having trouble deciding what to do next. It's not like I don't have enough yarn to last me for several years to come. I also knew that whatever I did, it would have to be from stash, since a trip to the LYS is not an option at the moment. So, I started casting on.

I decided to use some Cherry Tree Hill Lace weight from AmyDe and started an Irish Diamond Shawl. This was the first "big" lace project I ever did after I learned to knit. Back then, Mom picked out the yarn and the pattern. It blocked to be the size of a king sized bed and Mom LOVES it. That's all that matters. I have wanted a shawl of my own that I can wrap up in, but I decided smaller needles and lighter yarn would be the ticket. So I cast on.

I also have been itching to make myself a new pair of socks and the Koigu I bought at WWKIP day has been staring at me for quite some time. I have 2 skeins and decided that toe up was the way to go so I could use all of both skeins. A simple 3x1 rib pattern and I cast on.

I also have a couple of sweaters worth of yarn. I swatched. A. LOT. I looked through many books and magazines to find the right pattern. I almost decided to make it up as I go. Finally I settled on Jo Sharp DK Tweed in Cedar (which is a great olivey dark green) and Pullover Flair from the Spring 2006 Interweave Knits. I am using a larger needle and am having to knit to the schematic measurements. I think the pattern will show off the tweediness of the yarn nicely. So I cast on. (A couple of times, but I digress)

Finally, I got an email about Mystery Stole 4. The group opened up on Yahoo on August 1 and will close mid-September. I was very happy with last years Swan Lake stole, and I had some lace weight and beads, so why not. I haven't cast on yet, as the first clue comes out Sept 5, but I am going to go ahead and do the swatch.

Looking back at all this, I don't think I was in a funk, but more bored. I like having several things going at once. I feel much better looking at all these things, knowing I have a choice of projects, rather than being stuck with one. And yes, I do finish stuff, and no, I probably won't cast on anything else for a bit. I think I might just have my hands full for the moment.

Oh, and I spun up the red, white, and blue roving. I am very happy with the result and since the red matches my wool coat, I am thinking of a scarf or mitts or a hat to match my coat. We will see.

OK, back to some real work, to support my yarn habit. Have a good week!

Let's start the week off right...

2008-08-04T08:06:00.000-05:00

more graph humor and song chart memes

Kitchen...not just for cooking anymore!

2008-07-27T09:17:00.002-05:00

So, as I have been trying to gather my thoughts for this post, I got to thinking about what I have been doing this past week. And you know what, I've been busy. I didn't really realize until I started gathering pictures to post. It was a restless kind of week. You know the kind. You have so many things you need to do, want to do, that you can't settle on just one or two things. That's how I started off. Work was very stressful last week with Hurricane Dolly and all, so I found myself needing to create more and more.

Monday night I came home and decided to play with some color. I used a method of dyeing I saw at The Inside Loop, I took 4 oz of Rambioullet...

added some Jacquard Acid dyes in Fire Red and Sapphire Blue...

and got this:

I don't have a name for it yet. I can't wait to spin it up and see what happens. The blue didn't penetrate all the wool, so it has a nice blotchy effect and lets more of the white come through. Unexpected results are sometimes the best ones!

Tuesday night, I took more Ramioulett and played with Kool-aid. I used the instructions from Knitty/Fall02. I decided to do a diagonal blotchy color direction with 3 flavors.

I got it all in the pan and covered it well.

And this is what I ended up with. I don't have a name for this one either, but it reminds me of Cherry Lemonade.

Wednesday was the Snarky Knit night. I worked on a cotton dish towel for a bit, but ended up with a splitting headache and went home early. The weather in Georgia is in that afternoon thunderstorm pattern common in summer down here. The pressure changes suddenly and my head feels it. Once I got home and took a Tylenol, I started to feel better.

Thursday was for spinning. I had this lovely olive roving started and I wanted to get it done, so that I could start on my hand-dyed stuff. I spun a bit on Thursday night and started a new project for a friend's birthday.

Friday was more of the same, and payday. I paid the rent and bought gas and am pretty broke for the next couple of weeks. It's the story of my life.

Saturday, I did manage to budget some money for groceries and am using my new crock pot with great success. Yesterday, I ventured into the world of Indian food. I used a recipe for Lamb Vindaloo and substituted chicken. I love lamb, but I have never cooked it before, so am a little afraid of it. Also, the budget allowed for chicken. I subbed a package of boneless thighs and breast tenders for the lamb and cooked it all day. I made white rice in the Arabic way (I have a cook book for this and it turns out great), And had a lovely dinner. I have enough for most of the week and for a couple of lunches. I also plan to make a one skillet baked ziti that I got off of America's Test Kitchen that I saw on PBS last weekend.

I also did a bit of knitting. The Snarky's have been rallied to make a couple of things for a friend in need. So, I have been working on that, and the birthday present. And decided to start a lace shawl, for me. I also did some blocking.

This is a shawl for mom. Back in April, when I had to go to Florida 3 weekends in a row, Mom, Katey, and I went off to Ft. Walton Beach to the yarn shop there. Mom picked out JoJoland Melody and said she wanted a shawl or wrap. The pattern came with the yarn and was written by a customer of the shop. I finished the knitting on it quite some time ago, but only just got around to the blocking. It is really lovely, and I know Mom is going to adore it.

Between the cooking, knitting, blocking, and Laundry, I watched Pride and Prejudice, again...the BBC version, all 6 hours of it. I that story and since it was a bit rainy yesterday too, I didn't feel at all guilty for staying in.

Today, my plan is to get into my stash and catalog it. I need to go through and photograph it. And then get it on Ravelry and clean out what I have on there already. I am sure I have destashed some of what I have listed and I want to get a better picture of what I have to work with.

So, I know this was long, but dang, I have been busy. Now time to relax a bit.

Have a good one!

FO!

2008-07-20T09:11:00.002-05:00

I have been working on the Pintuck T-shirt by Lein Ngo for a couple of weeks now. I picked up some SWTC Bamboo at Only Ewe and Cotton, Too! on WWKIP day. Here is the finished product:

This pattern is an exercise in short rows. It was a challenge, as the only ones I had any experience with were in sock toes and heels. I love a project that teaches a new technique and I feel way more confident about using shortrows for bust shaping in the future.

You can find the pattern HERE and on Ravelry.

A big thanks to Lein for being such a smart cookie! I love the shirt!

Ok, change of Venue

2008-07-15T15:32:00.002-05:00

forget ravelry. not going into it here. but if you are interested, I have put all my handspun in my ETSY SHOP. Please go over and take a look.

For Sale

2008-07-14T10:42:00.003-05:00

Ok, I have finally done it. I have listed about 15 of my handspun yarns on Ravelry on the ISO and Destash group here. This is the first time I will be doing this so we will see how it goes. All proceeds are going to the "send Amy to SAFF" fund!

Happy 4th...

2008-07-08T10:10:00.002-05:00

I am a little late wishing everyone a happy 4th, but better late than never. I hope everyone had an enjoyable, relaxing long weekend. I know I did. I spent 4 days at a cabin in the North GA Mountains. While I had tv, a/c, phone, kitchen and indoor plumbing, I had no internets. I got some knitting done and watched a couple of movies. It was a lovely time and very hard to come back to work today.

I got this meme off of Claudia's blog. Thought I would give it a try.

What Amy Means

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.

You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.

You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!

You are a free spirit, and you resent anyone who tries to fence you in.

You are unpredictable, adventurous, and always a little surprising.

You may miss out by not settling down, but you're too busy having fun to care.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

I just really hope that I would not "knock down anyone who gets in your way". I think I would be more likely to gently push them aside and out of my way!!!

Happy Tuesday!

I see many in my future

2008-06-28T16:38:00.002-05:00

One of my friends lives in South Carolina. Her baby just graduated high school and will be starting USC very soon. I wanted to do something little for her for graduation. But, as I don't have a lot of disposable income, and liking to give handmade gifts that are useful and pretty, I decided to make a pillowcase.
My logic is this: She will be starting college in the fall. She will be in a dorm. I never had that experience, as I lived at home while in college, but I did grow up with a Mickey Mouse pillow case that I used when traveling or whatever, all through school. It was mine. So, I figure that if I were going to live in a dorm, I would want something that I could recognize as mine, no matter what. So, why not a pillow case?

I conferred with my friend about colors and she said anything pink would be perfect. So, I went to Red Hen and spent an hour looking at fabric. My first instinct was to go for something "cute" as in silly. But, as I got to looking, I decided that something with a bit more sophistication would be better. I found the beautiful pink floral and then chose the accents from there. This was my first attempt and I am very happy with the result. And, I think more of these will be great Christmas presents for the kids. Thank goodness they are quick to sew!

ode to homegrown

2008-06-27T08:50:00.002-05:00

Ok, not exactly an ode, but I do want to sing the praises of homegrown tomatoes. I live in a little apartment with a little back patio. Every year, I try to grow tomatoes. This is the first year I have had any success. So far, with 3 plants, I have had 1, count 'em 1, tomato. There are tons of blooms and I think one other fruit growing. I keep a close eye on them all! Anyway, here is the specimen I put forth for your scrutiny.
See that split on the side. I think I waited a day to long to pick it. But, I wanted the perfect red so I held out. This tomato fit in the palm of my hand. It was a beautiful color and smelled incredible. There was nary a blemish except for the split on the top. I carefully plucked it from the plant and took it inside and rinsed it off. I didn't use any pesticides or anything, but there was a bit of dust. I then laid it out on a paper towel and proceeded to massacre the thing right then...

It was perfect on the inside as well. Plenty juicy and nice and firm. A good sprinkle of salt and that was all she wrote. The flavor was unmatched. The juice ran down my chin, and I even got a bit on my shirt. I didn't even change, the drip was a tribute to homegrown. The whole experience lasted all of a minute. Did I mention, I love homegrown tomatoes?

I've been tagged...

2008-06-24T08:06:00.003-05:00

This has been going around.

The Rules: Rules are posted at the beginning. At the end of the post, the player tags 5 people and posts their names. Then the player goes to each of the “named” people’s blogs and leaves a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. If you’ve been tagged, you do the same, letting the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answer. Your answer, of course, is the answer to the following questions. Here we go!

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?
I had just moved back to Atlanta and was working at Maritz. I had 2 roomies and we lived up on the north border of Marietta.

2. What are 5 things on my to-do list today?
Since I am at work, that is number 1. I have a meeting to build. After work, I have an appointment with my Mary Kay rep. Otherwise, I am going to spin a little tonight, and do some knitting on a new project today.

3. Snacks I enjoy:
Lately, I usually keep almonds at work for when I get hungry right before lunch. I also try to keep cheese sticks and yogurt at home. I am currently out of the almonds and yogurt. As for nutrionally empty snacks, I am love those coconut covered zingers that you get at the gas station. And strawberry shortcake rolls from little debbie. My current favorite flavor of ben and jerry's is Creme Brulee. Oh, and anything chocolate, of course.

4. Places I’ve lived: (all dates are approximate)
Kenitra, Morocco (1972)
Norfolk, VA (1972-1975)
San Diego, CA (1975-1978)
Middletown, RI(1978-1982)
Pensacola, FL(1982-1987)
Naples, Italy(1987)
Pensacola, FL(1987-1996)
Smyrna, GA(1996-1997)
Pensacola, FL(1997)
Marietta, GA(1997-1998)
Acworth, GA(1998-2000)
Kennesaw, GA(2000-2002)
Smyrna, GA (2002-2008

5. Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Contribution to the church. Pay off all debt for me and family. Buy land somewhere. Travel. I think managing money like that would be a full time job, so I guess I would quit work. Devote my time to things i really love to do, ie. knitting, spinning, and the like.

The rules say I have to tag 5 people now.
I think most everyone I know has been tagged, so if you haven't consider this it.

I guess I am not caught up...

2008-06-24T07:44:00.002-05:00

I guess I am not as caught up as I thought. I got this in the mail yesterday. It's from SakinaNeedles. I can't remember all the details, but I started spinning it last night, and it's gorgeous. The color is called Coral Beach, I think. This is pretty close to the true colors, but the green is a little more pronounced. I was trying to take pictures inside my sliding glass door last night and couldn't get the color quite right.

This is the DragonFibers roving I showed you yesterday. I finished the spinning on Sunday and it was all dry yesterday evening. I think I am keeping this one. It's superwash and I love it.

Can you see it? I have 3 tomato plants in a pot on my porch. There have been tons of blooms, but this is the only fruit so far. I think there is one more tiny one on another plant. It just started turning red yesterday. I can't wait! I love fresh tomatoes.

Prue was very interested in my picture taking yesterday. She got right in the middle of it, but would not sit still to have her picture taken. I only managed one decent shot. So here she is, directing the photo shoot.

On a different note, Claudia, our hearts go out to you.

Mail Eating Postal Monster

2008-06-23T09:30:00.004-05:00

I am only the latest victim...

Like I said, I was gone for 10 days. About a week before I left, I put a hold on my mail. Well, I guess in post office speak, Hold means Eat. I got back, went to pick up 10 days worth of mail and got 1 envelope and some junk mail. I emailed, I called, I figured 2 netflix videos, my phone bill, and my car registration should have been there. But, they weren't. Someone from the post office spoke to the mail carrier, he said he held it. But the question I have is, what did he do with it. I am sure it is floating around somewhere, or it was stolen, which is probably more likely. Anyway, it's gone. I have been able to find report the dvd's missing, get my phone bill on line, get a replacement tag for my truck. It's still a pain and a real inconvenience. And in the day of chronic identity theft, which I have already dealt with once because of the post office, this current situation does not bode well.

Anyway, thank goodness this wasn't lost. This was my first order from an etsy site. The shop is Dragonfibers. The roving is 4oz of superwash Colonial roving in the Indian Summer colorway. We agreed on special shipping arrangements before vacation, so it was not a victim of the mail eating postal monster. Thank goodness for that. This roving took my breath away when I opened the package. I couldn't wait to get it spun up. The wool is super soft and spun like a dream. The twist has been set and the hank is drying now. I will get a picture of the finished product as soon as I can.

We did WWKIP June 14th at The Whole Nine Yarns in Woodstock, GA. The Snarkies met up with the Woodstockians and had a lovely time. I picked up 2 skeins of Koigu in a lovely dappled blue and white colorway. Kind of reminds me of my Blue Willow plates. Anyway, after the event ended, the Snarkies headed over to Only Ewe & Cotton, too. That was another lovely time and I picked up 6 skeins of SWTC Bamboo in a lovely lavender color in the clearance bin. Score!

That kind of catches things up. My birthday passed quietly. Dinner with friends Saturday for a belated celebration. Things back on track and back to a routine. I have a couple of things on the needles, but nothing spectacular. Am kind of obsessed with Peaches & Cream Kitchen cotton and am making shopping bags and dishcloths. Oh, and have been gathering stuff on my handspun to get it posted on etsy to sell. I hope to have this done soon, but we will see.

Vacation Followup

2008-06-23T08:40:00.004-05:00

So, I wanted to post a few pictures of California. I was gone for 10 days, 8 of which were spent in Hesperia, aka The High Desert. I can now add driving in Los Angeles and the Cajon Pass to my list of driving adventures. We went a lot of places and saw a lot. I can't even remember some of the stuff we saw. I got little knitting done, but as I said before, I did try to corrupt the younger generation. I showed C. spinning earlier. Here is S.

Some of the family came out to the desert for a visit. Cousin Sherry and I cooked. It's funny how roles have started to reverse. When we were kids, it was always my mom, aunts, and grandma who were in the kitchen. We were under foot and told to go outside. This time, the youngins' had our chance. And what was our culinary masterpiece you might ask? Well, since the winds were running about 60 mph and grilling was out of the question, we made tacos. Set up a make your own buffet and let everyone help themselves. Quite crafty, if you ask me. I was in charge of chopping. And I even whipped up so guacamole, even though I had never made it myself before. It was a success.

I have to say that this trip was as much about vacation as it was about a new start. Viki had never been west of the Mississippi River, much less to the Pacific Ocean. This was to be a new adventure, which it certainly turned out to be. We drove up to Lake Arrowhead. This is truly a beautiful place. The lake is dark, the trees are mostly green. The sun was shining, and the temperature was perfect.This is us. Mom, Me, Viki, and Sherry. There is a cute little shopping village and a good Mexican place. Margaritas and shopping, who could ask for more? It was a good day. There was this little bar that caught my eye. I didn't go in, but managed to snap a picture.

We out to Palm Springs and took the Aerial Tramway. It went up something like 4000 feet in about 10 minutes. Mom was not happy, she has a thing about heights. She does, however, now understand why grandma never liked going on this think! I didn't mind so much, as I had taken a Dramamine (my best friend) before we went up. The view was incredible. This is at the bottom. You can't even see the top. The tram goes up at a pretty fast clip and the whole thing turns as it ascends. A weird sensation, but worth the trip, at least once in your life.

Palm Springs itself was hot...102 in the shade, but bearable. We ate at Marie Callender's...mom had her rhubarb pie. I think that and the IN-n-OUT burger made her whole trip!!!

We spent the rest of the trip driving, seeing, taking pictures of walls on the highway. Viki wanted to see where mom grew up. So we trekked "down the hill" and down to the beach. Here is the pacific ocean. It's different than the Gulf. It is cold and rough. There were riptide warnings and seaweed on the beach. The sand is brown. But, the beach is the beach no matter where you are, and I miss it.

And that me sticking my foot in the Pacific.

And knitting for about a minute on the beach. The wind was strong. It took a lot of conditioner to get those knots out of my hair!

Went to L.A. Here's proof: Viki had a list of things she wanted to do. Beach, check. Mountains, check. Route 66, check. Sunset Blvd., check. We also went to Pasadena to Huntington Library. I grew up hearing about this place and had never been. I think this visit was more for mom to show me, than for anyone else. It is truly a lovely place. I would love to go back and spend more time in the galleries.

All in all, it was a fantastic trip. But, being gone for so long, I was glad to get back to some normalcy. Of course, I got home to a bit of a problem, but what else can I expect. More on that later.

Greetings from LA

2008-06-08T21:02:00.002-05:00

Been livin' it up in the great southwest. Spent the past few days in the High Dessert of Southern CA. I brought a lot of knitting, but have gotten very little done, as I have been the driver all week. I can now add Downtown Los Angeles to the list of big cities I have driven and survived. It was crazy, and it didn't help with a van full of people all trying to tell me which way to go, and each way different! Then there was mom in the front seat swearing that she would never go there again and cursing us for getting her down in that mess. Anyway, I wasn't skeered...

I did spend one evening teaching my cousins the drop spindle. I think they enjoyed it, but I doubt they would pick it up again, unless I bring it with me.
Cousin C giving it a try. She got pretty good, but kept trying to play a computer game and spin...

Just a couple of more days and I will be back. I love the dessert. The weather has been near perfect, except for the Smog. Temps have been great. My arms are still 2 different colors, but I have accepted it!

More pictures, once I get back.

Happy Memorial Day...

2008-05-25T18:26:00.003-05:00

Before I get started, I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you to all service men and women across this country who have and are serving our country. We would not have the freedoms we have if it were not for you. THANK YOU!

Now, this is a 3-day weekend for me, so I thought I would get caught up on picture taking of things going on around here. I have finished a couple of things, planted a container garden, and gotten a great deal...

The finished objects:
Miss Muffett, MagKnits, for Skeeter. Still need to sew the buttons on the back, but the knitting is done.

Detail of the Lace panel and scalloped bottom.

French Market Bag, Knitty, Winter 2003

Hexacomb Cardigan, Interweave Knits, Spring 2008

Here are a few of things I planted on my back porch for the summer.

Tomatoes!!!! And I have fruit this year!!!

Geraniums. Ever since I lived in Italy, I have loved these flowers. They are very easy to grow and as long as you dead-head the old blooms, they will be bright all summer long.
These are Amaryllis. They are from a friend's mother's garden up in the Mountains. I think she got them from her uncle. I love the idea that these have been passed down. Most people force the bulbs to bloom at the holidays, but I like the in the spring.

And now for the deal!

I got this purse at the new DSW that opened up near my place. I had a $20 redemption certificate and a $15 coupon that came in the mail. The purse was marked $99.95 and on clearance for 70% off. With both coupons and the % off, I got the bag for free!!! Can't beat that with a stick.

So, that's it for now. I have some more things in the works and vacation is coming up very soon. Everyone have a safe Holiday weekend! Happy Summer!

Recruiting for the dark side

2008-05-22T08:08:00.002-05:00

Yes, we have a new knitter in our midst. Last night, at the knitting group, Jennifer was converted into a knitter. Many thanks to Nicole for hosting. Nicole, being our newest knitter, taught Jennifer the knit stitch. We realized almost immediately that she was a natural continental knitter and, once she had that down, I taught her the purl stitch, since I knit continental, too. She got a couple of rows of that down and then asked how to do cables. Are you kidding? You have been knitting for all of 1 hour and you want to do cables? Well, who was I to say you can't..when, obviously...Jennifer is destined to be a truly fearless knitter. So I showed her cables. And, she got it. Awesome.

Welcome to the dark side, my young padwan.

PS..she didn't tell us until after we marveled at her ability that she had been crocheting for years....

What a nice surprise!

2008-05-05T12:44:00.004-05:00

I had to run an errand today at lunch. I had to get mom's present and card in the mail. People at work found out I was going to the post office and suddenly everybody wanted stamps. So, off to the mall I went. Thankfully, the line was short. I turned around to walk out and there was The Pattern Slave running the same errand with EvieBelle in tow. So, we had lunch, chatted a bit, and played a bit with Evie. What a nice surprise. Now back to the grind...

oh, and do I have a deal to tell you about, but that will have to come later. I still need to download the pictures.

For Sherrie:
Via Dolorosa
Evelyn Nesbit

On truck repairs and knitting and crafting and stuff

2008-04-30T14:09:00.005-05:00

Since last I posted, I have been back down to Florida for a third time. That makes 3 consecutive weekends. I am still recovering. And, my truck is still not exactly right. The transmission is good and I now have new plug wires. As I was trying to leave, it started acting up again, but this time, my brother was able to experience what I had been telling him. So, I am not crazy, there is something wrong, but, he has no idea what it could be. He thinks it's in the exhaust system. Oh joy. This means I may not pass emissions. We will see. I am not worrying about it today, though.

I have been knitting like crazy. I finished Miss Muffett for Skeeter. Need to sew the buttons on the back. Made a set of 2 baby bibs and a burp cloth for a lady at work. They are pea green with a big pink button. Very cute. Finished the BBS for Socks for Soldiers and 4 washcloths out of leftover yarn. I am now gathering bits and stuff to add to a care package. I am now knitting lace for Mom..probably to be her Christmas present.

I got some new roving to dye and some new to spin. I have been dog sitting this week, so I haven't been at home to do any spinning. Can't wait to get back to that. I have done a bit sewing, too. If you call sewing bandannas together to make a tablecloth really sewing.... Anyway, that is 3 sewing projects done. One to go.

As you can tell, it has been busy in my neck of the woods. I am not complaining. I am just glad to be able to stay in town and get some things done.

And, remember this little mishap?

Yeah, I got a call from Brother today. Guess how much it cost? You wouldn't think it was that much, right? Well, what you can't see is that the back quarter panel is cracked, which means I broke his truck. Not only is the bumper bent, but it broke the fiberglass, too. Yeah, when I mess something up, I do it good...anyway, Brother said it was $1800 worth of damage. And insurance is paying for it. I offered to pay his deductible. He won't let me. Not this time anyway. I told him this is exactly why I don't like driving his vehicles. Because, something always happens to them. ALWAYS...

Back in Florida

2008-04-13T08:20:00.007-05:00

I am back in Florida this weekend to pick up my truck. Brother has been driving it all week and has announced that it is cured. I drove it last night and it seems good. Everything seems tight, but that is probably because I got used to driving his truck. It will be alright though. I will leave in a bit and head home. I am looking forward to that.

Look, my baby got a bath!

So, I went all week, being very careful with brother's truck. I was so good, making sure I didn't scratch it or anything. I even picked up some new batteries for his key fob. Yesterday morning, on my way out of town, however, I had a little disagreement with a concrete pole.

I told him. He wasn't mad. Thank goodness. Not that I thought he would be. It is after all, just a truck. But, I am still mad at myself for it. I can't seem to drive a vehicle of his for any length of time without something happening. The last time I almost got stuck in a drive through bank window and ruined some very expensive custom wheels by dragging them along the concrete. The truck was too wide to fit. I had no idea. This time, the damage will probably be less expensive. And, there is insurance.

So, as promised, here are some pictures from Pensacola beach.

KateyJ taking pictures. By this time, she was soaked. She kept going down to where the waves were. I would do the same, but I backed up quickly. She got soaked by the waves, I didn't! And she said later she couldn't understand why I was backing up...until she got wet...hehehehe.

That's my foot.

There were fisherman.

There were waves. In those waves, we saw dolphins. Very cool.

This is one of the new boardwalks and picnic areas that have been built since Ivan. Each of the pavilions has a barbecue. There was even a bathroom area. It is all very nice.

This road has become a road to nowhere. It used to go out to Fort Pickens. The road was destroyed during Ivan. It goes nowhere now.

I have a couple of pictures from the Yarn Harlot event at Knitch, last Sunday, but I will post those later. Need to get ready to get back on the road!

It's confirmed, I'm not crazy....

2008-04-07T09:18:00.050-05:00

I knew there was something wrong with my truck. Granted, there was never a witness to said something wrong, but this truck and I have been together for about 13 years now. I have known her for 161,000 miles. I knew something was wrong.

So, KateyJ and I got on the road at the butt-crack of dawn on Wednesday. At that point, Murphy's Law went into full effect. We drove 6 hours with not a hint that bad things were happening within the innards of my transmission. We got to Florida safe and sound, and to add insult to injury, used only a 1/2 tank of gas for 325 miles. Got exceptional gas mileage. Dang.

Thursday morning, my brother took my truck over to Mr. Mechanic who is currently charged with fixing it. Of course, he gunned it on the main road, way exceeding the speed limit, and again, nothing happened. He declared that truck runs like a champ. Whatever. I still stand by what I have been saying. Something is wrong.

So, Mr. Mechanic pulled apart the transmission. He called my brother. "How long has this been acting up?" he asked. Josh replies, "I don't know, but she (being me) drove it down from Atlanta yesterday." To which Mr. Mechanic replies, "WHAT???? Well, I just pulled this apart and I have never seen so many gears in the pan. It's a wonder she went anywhere!" Thank you Mr. Mechanic. You are truely a lovely person. I am not crazy. I knew something was not right!

So, my baby is having the transmission rebuilt. It should run for another 160,000 miles as long as the engine stays sound. I should have her back next week. I am currently in posession of brother's 4x4. It runs, I'm happy!

As for the trip, I dragged Katey all over. There was a lot of shopping. 3 yarn stores, 2 shoe stores, and everything in between. Took her around to the old haunts, most of which are not there anymore. And watched her knit and rip a sock about 6 times. I got a bit of spinning done, and we have determined that I should take my wheel apart and do some light sanding, and put it back together. What the heck, I need to know how the whole thing works, right? We went to the beach. Ate at Whataburger and went knit night at a local shop. Overall, it was a nice visit. I just can't wait to get my truck back!

Oh, and I have a few pictures, which I will try to get posted tomorrow.

And, the Yarn Harlot was here yesterday. I have a few pictures from that as well, but that is for another post.

Coasting to Pensacola

2008-03-31T12:54:00.002-05:00

I am driving to Florida on Wednesday. Thankfully, KateyJ is going to go with me. See, right before Christmas, my truck started doing weird things. I can't even explain. It was just weird. So, I took my tax check and had some work done...brakes, water pump, belts changed, basically a ton of maintenance that had been neglected for quite a while. After that, my truck ran great. Then I got on the interstate and it started acting weird again.

I called my family. I told them I think the transmission is going. My brother, who I consult on all things automotive, has a truck very similar to mine in age an mileage. I described what was happening as best I could. He said his does something similar. Give it some gas, it will be fine. Famous last words.

So, I was driving on a surface road with a fairly steep hill. I hit about 45mph and gave it some gas to get up the hill and the truck was not happy. I gave it gas. It went THUNK, THUNK, THUNK. Apparently, giving it gas was not the answer. I immediately called home. Told brother the gas cure, not so much. He said, yes, then it was more than likely the transmission.

Ok, so what now? Well, I have to get my poor truck down to Florida. It has to live there for a while and get a whole new transmission. I am worried about this trip. There is a chance the transmission could just fall out altogether. That's the worst case scenario. It's not going to happen like that. I am probably worried for nothing. I know what the limits are. And, after all, it is mostly a downhill drive from Georgia.

So, Katey is going to ride down there with me. Just in case. Not that she could fix my transmission, if it did break. But, she will be along for moral support. So, for that I will be eternally grateful. Katey has never been to P'cola. This will be fun! And we will be back in time for the Yarn Harlot.

Wish me luck.

Bonsai Tunic

2008-03-20T07:19:00.002-05:00

I finished it in time for Resurrection Sunday! I didn't think I would have anything new to wear, but I do. Since it will be about 43 degrees at 7:00am, this will be perfect with jeans and a long sleeved T...much like you see here.

This was unblocked, but I could not wait to wear it. It's a tiny bit big in the back, but I am not fussed about it. I love the way it looks and should carry me through spring and early summer. I used 11 balls of Elann's Connemara, thanks to Andrea! I have 7 left and have started Miss Muffet for Skeeter.
Also thanks to Nic for taking the picture.

The Snarkys (well, Katey) have created a group on Ravelry called "Snarky Knitters". Come by and take a look.

And to everyone out there, may you have a blessed Resurrection Sunday, and remember the sacrifice Our Lord made so that we might be free in Him.

John 8:36 "So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed."

John 20:27-31 27Then He said to Thomas, "Reach here with you finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing." 28Thomas answered and said to Him, "My Lord and my God!" 29Jesus said to him, "Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed." 30Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.

Heard at knit night...

2008-03-05T20:45:00.002-06:00

Katey: I am happy to report that the Yarn Harlot did not die in the Canadian tundra.

Nicole (in her best news anchor voice): Thank you Katey. Now for sports.

Maybe you had to be there. But it made me laugh. And I was definitely in a funk when I got there. It took me a while to actually pick up my knitting. Once the sinus pill kicked in and my head cleared a bit, I felt much, much better. I even ripped out about 2 inches of a sweater I have been working on. Of course, it looks like i am going to rip it out again, but that's for another post.

I have finished a pair of socks. I have started and ripped them a couple of times. I am trying to do my own design, and having some fit problems. Designing is hard. I ended up making a pair like I made for brother's girlfriend for Christmas. Except, mine are green. I used Dream in Color Smooshy in "Happy Forest". The design I went with shows off the subtle colors much better. And, I love this yarn.

The design is my own, but was inspired by somebody else's design. I did a cable coming off the cuff ribbing on the right and left sides. I love this look. I even had plenty leftover to make a mini pair for Jilly. Unfortunately, babies grow. Did you know that? Curious how that happens.

Oh, and here is Jilly, modeling the hat Aunt Nina crocheted.

Ok, time for Project Runway. It's the finale...gotta run.

Leaf Lace Shawl

2008-02-18T09:59:00.005-06:00

I have an Aunt who has undergone some surgery lately. Pretty serious stuff. We are going to visit in June, but I wanted to do something in the mean-time to tell her she has been on my mind. So, I had some KnitPicks Lace weight from AmyD and had it earmarked for the Leaf Lace Shawl. I added more beads than the pattern called for and made the smaller size for the lace weight, since my aunt is a tiny person. I think it turned out nicely. Here is the pre-blocking view:

I use heavy floral wire to block. Mostly becaus it is about $1.99 for 12 18inch lenghths, and I am cheap. But, they work just fine. Here is the shawl blocking on the living room floor.

Here is a close up of the pattern with the beads. Everytime the pattern called for a psso, I put a bead on using a tiny crochet hook. Learned the techinque while working on MS3 this summer. It has been very useful.

Finally, here is the finished product. I didn't really have a good place to display the shawl and it was dark when I took the picture, so my wheel was as good a place as any to display.

It will be off in the mail tomorrow, since the President's day holiday has the post office closed. I really do hope she likes it. I am looking forward to visiting in June.

I have finished a few other things, but, agian, have been to lazy to photograph. The felted bag is felted, zippered and lined. I love it! I think I am going to have to change the handles and invest in leather straps though. I have tended to stuff it full and make it really heavy. Almost to much for the felted handles I currently have on it. I also finished the X-files socks I had been working on for quite a while. I will try to get pictures of everything and get them posted.

Oh, and have you seen THIS? I have already registered. See you there!

For Flower...

2008-01-31T21:16:00.000-06:00

And she knows who she is. Here is what I did tonight.

They are chocolate with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. The recipe was copied from a news paper clipping hanging on the wall at Cupcake in Charleston, SC. I am taking most of them to work tomorrow. My coworkers are always eager guinea pigs!

4 down 2 to go

2008-01-31T11:38:00.000-06:00

ok, really it's 3 to go since i couldn't resist and cast on some tvyarn for a pair of socks. That was a SAFF purchase and it's in an x-files colorway. Using a yarnover cable pattern from sensational knitted socks.

Anyway, just cast off the Leaf Lace Shawl from fibertrends. Pictures to follow...

Have a good one!

I have been in a Star Wars state of mind

2008-01-28T20:46:00.000-06:00

And this made me laugh.

HOLEY MOLEY!

2008-01-28T14:05:00.001-06:00

That was the sentiment heard quite a bit while G. opened his presents this past Sunday. Needless to say, the Star Wars hat was a great success. Here's the proof...

What's in the bag?

Oh Wow! Did you make this for ME??

It's a bit big!

You really did make this!

How cool am I?

Overall, this was a big hit. G and B's mom told me that both of them ask her what I am making and G was very excited when his mom told him I had made him something special for his birthday. This makes me really happy. Although I am sure it will only last for a couple of more years...I was a kid once...I remember...

On Charleston and FO's

2008-01-26T19:12:00.001-06:00

I think I am probably one of the only Georgia Knit bloggers not to have Snowy doom pictures to share!

So, last weekend I spent visiting Heather and Laurie in Charleston. Why is it that I can take pictures of stuff and places, but seem to forget to take pictures of people? I saw many beautiful homes and fell in love with the classic Charleston style architecture.

I did not walk over the Ravenel bridge, as Heather wanted to. It was very cold and rained a bit while I was there. Heather, maybe in the spring or summer, when I can come back to visit, I promise!

We ate at some fantastic restaurants and had a bit of she-crab soup and shrimp and grits! I made a chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting inspired by the Boulevard Diner. I was introduced to Cupcake. I was inspired. The aforementioned cake may be my first experiment in translating whole cake recipes to cupcakes. Laurie also wrote down a recipe from Cupcake that was published in a local paper there. Want to give it a try. I have already warned that my coworkers that they will be my first victims. They are more than willing!

I bought some yarn. I was good, only one skein.

Now, for the FO's. I finished the Chinese Waves dishcloth before I left for Charleston. Only got picture loaded, so here they are.

I finished the Star Wars hat for G. I am going to try to give it to him tomorrow. Happy 8th! And, if he doesn't love it, I am going to take it back and keep it for myself! It is darling.

I have also finished the knitting and felting of the Noni Large prism bag. It's done is chocolate heather and red. I got it felted last night, but still need to pick out the lining fabric. I might have something here, I just haven't looked yet. I had to buy a black zipper since Joann's didn't have any in brown, but I think it will be fine as the brown is very dark. I may check Walmart and just see what they have.From the broad side.

The triangle.
Prue approves. She was all over it as soon as I laid it down!

So, if you are keeping score, that is 3 finished, 3 to go. The Chevron scarf will likely be the next FO because it is almost the length of my arm span. And, I am getting tired of knitting on it. I should have enough yarn leftover to make a pair of socks, too. We will see. The Lace leaf shawl is only about 3 repeats from the edging, so it should be done really soon too. I am resisting casting on some socks. I am looking for the perfect Irish/Celtic/cable inspired pattern for the green Smooshy. want them for St. Patty's. Any Ideas?

1 down, 5 to go

2008-01-17T11:12:00.000-06:00

I just finished the dishcloth. Yay! I got the yarn to finish the Star Wars hat. Will probably finish this weekend. Taking lace/hat/bag/scarf with me on road trip. Have plenty to finish!

Have a good one!

In case you didn't know...

2008-01-16T18:49:00.000-06:00

It's snowing in Atlanta. Happens from time to time. But the way people are driving, you would think they are all listening to REM.

It's the end of the world as we know it... Dang, now it's stuck in my head.

Off to Charleston tomorrow.

Have a good one!

Step back and take inventory

2008-01-14T08:42:00.000-06:00

Ok, so this morning I woke up with an urge to walk. This never, ever happens. So, I got up, got dressed, and trudged up to the 1 working treadmill in our fitness center and did a 30 minute walk. 1.3 miles to be exact. I really want to make this a habit as I always feel so much better when I exercise, even a little. Not to mention, the health benefits. So, my goal for the month is to walk 3 times a week. Now, I have agreed to do THIS on Mother's Day. I have been very blessed not to be personally touched by Breast Cancer in my immediate family. But, I know lots who have, so I am walking for all of them. BTW, if you would like to help, leave a comment and I will get in touch with you with details. So, anyway, you could say I have some incentive to build up my stamina. This is a non-competitive 3 mile walk and while I know we won't be bookin' it, I want to make it through and feel good, not exhausted. I have some work to do.

The other thing I am taking inventory on are my WIP's. Currently, I think I have 6 in progress. I figure if I list them, I can wrangle some sort of sanity and keep from starting anything else just yet. The fight to not start several new projects is very, very hard. Just sayin'. So, here's the list:

1. Leaf Lace Shawl-for Aunt needs to be done by June
2. Chevron Scarf
3. Crocheted top-for W. would like to have done by July
4. Star Wars hat-for G. need to be done by end of month..waiting on rest of yarn
5. Noni Bag-color work. Would like to have done by June vacation.
6. Wash cloth-trying out a new stitch pattern. Thanks Sherrie.

Everything is in various states of progress, most all have had a good start to them. I usually carry around the shawl and scarf and work on them a little at a time. I have a notebook with things I would like to make this year and some new yarns from Andrea that I am itching to get on the needles. But, I have to finish something before I can start something else. I can not run around willy-nilly starting new projects. Actually, yes I can, Willy-Nilly sometimes feels like a constant state. But, I am resolved to limit myself and focus and get things completed. So, there you are.

Send encouraging vibes my way. I need all the help I can get!

New bible study starts tonight. Thank goodness. And Nina has a blog, finally. You can fid it HERE.

Happy Monday.

Socks, finished

2008-01-11T18:17:00.000-06:00

Here they are!

This is Miss Babs based hand dyed (by me) yarn. Cast on 64 stitches on size 1 needles. Worked 2x2 rib for about 1 1/2 inches then did plain stockinette for 12 inches. Then did the toe and the heel. I tried the EZ "afterthought heel" so that I could keep the unintentional stripe on the body of the sock. I LOVE these! Will be wearing tomorrow. Definitely.

Have a good weekend!

I have been blessed...

2008-01-10T09:07:00.000-06:00

All morning, this is what is on continuous loop in my head. It is from a song called "Blessed" by Martina McBride. It is really says alot about how I have been feeling lately.

I have been blessed
And I feel like I've found my way
I thank God for all I've been given
At the end of every day
I have been blessed

I have good friends. How good, you ask??? Well, let me just tell you. Besides constantly supplying me with fibery goodness in the form of yarn...thanks to everyone...and relinquising a wheel to my use..thanks amyd, and more fiber from blogless A, these fine women go above and beyond. Let me 'splain...
Last night was the Snarky's knit night. I gave my house keys to Kateyto pick up some cupcakes that I made for our group. I mentioned that if the apartment smells, i was sorry as I needed to do some cleaning, mainly the litterbox and would get around to it soon. So, Katey and Laurie went over there to get the cupcakes, and while there, they cleaned out Prue's box. Can you believe it? I was stunned. They even took the old litter to the garbage on their way out of the complex. All I can say is thank you very much...and I was speechless. What amazing people.

Now, about knit night. I arrived at casa de Pattern Slaveto find that her stash had exploded. Katey and Laurie spent the afternoon helping Steph catalog and photograph her stash, getting it ready for Ravelry. She had some stuff to give away and I took some Wool ease thick and quick and all the cotton chenille she had. I am going to make a sweater for one of the kids and the chenille is destined to be washcloths...maybe for Christmas next year. Thank you Steph!!

Last night was also about converting a new knitter. Nicole joined us last night. What a doll. We sat her down next to Sherrie, who we determined was the best candidate to teach. She has a way of making knitting not scary and by the end of the night, Nicole was knitting and purling and had a plan for a scarf. Yay!!! And she wasn't completely scared off by all of us! Oh, and HI SIMON!!!!

And, evidently, formerly blogless Nina has a blog, but, I don't have the link just yet. So, when I get it, I will post it here!

Happy Thursday!

Oh, and on another note. Just found out that my credit card consolidation group settled my Lane Bryant account last October. 4 down 2 to go. Doin' the happy dance!!!

Finally, I can share...

2007-12-30T09:41:00.000-06:00

I am back from Christmas with the family. I pray that everyone had a lovely holiday. Here is everyone, pre-wrapping paper carnage!
From left around to right, there is John-boy, Boo-boo, Shy-shy, mom, Anita, and Josh (brother). Believe me, that pretty picture didn't last long!

Now, I can finally share some of my Christmas projects, which consisted mostly of hats and socks.

These are Anita's socks, made from Smooshy sock yarn. I did the design myself, with some inspiration from the net. There is a cable up each side, so there is a right and left sock. They were a hit! Mom got a couple of pair of socks, too. But, I didn't get pictures. She loves the Cascade Fixation that I use for her. They are soft and stretchy and I love using the bright colors.

This was Shy-shy's hat made from wool ease. This was my first attempt at color work and I followed a formula from EZ. I also brought a ball of wool and some needles and gave her a quick lesson on the knit stitch....

This is John-Boy's hat. I made one for him and for his brother, but managed to miss a picture of the other. They are both basic and made out of wool ease...they match the jackets mom got them, but that was coincidence.
Finally, this is the brother's hat. Simple, black, washable. It looks much better than some of the ratty things he was wearing under his helmet. All of these hats were made up on the fly. I guessed as to the size and just start knitting. Looks like everything worked! Yay!

Oh, and brother's other new toy!!!

So, Christmas was good, and I hope it was for everyone out there. I had a much needed vacation and was gone for the whole week. I spent some time baking and knitting and watching movies. I finished a pair of socks for mom and worked on socks for me, my chevron scarf, and the lace leaf shawl for Aunt S. (that has to be finished by June) I did go to the LYS in P'cola (King's) and chrashed their Knit Night. The ladies were lovely and very friendly. I hope Renee can stand the yellow Encore long enough to finish the Green Bay blanket! I brought some Peppermint bark as a Thank-you for letting me crash. I also picked up a skein of Colinette Jitterbug in Blue Parrot. Not that I don't have enough sock yarn, but I couldn't resist!

Oh, and thanks for all the calls, girls...i really missed everyone while I was away. Sheena...if you are reading this...make sure you come back soon! I hate that I missed you!

So, I am back now and trying to get things organized to start the new year off right. Not sure if I am making much headway, though. I have gotten out all the t-shirts that are slated to become a quilt and they are in the wash, along with the clothes from vacation. Will get started on that in the coming week. Also, will get started on a secret quilt block project that will be a gift later in the year. I am already thinking about my crafting queues for 2008.

No big plans for New Years. Everyone have a safe one and I will talk to you in 2008!

You keep using that word...

2007-12-14T09:17:00.000-06:00

Which Princess Bride Character are You?
this quiz was made by mysti

'Tis the Season

2007-12-06T14:41:00.000-06:00

I don't usually do Meme's, but this on was on AmyD's blog. So here it goes...

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both

2. Real tree or artificial? Fake

3. When do you put up the tree? After Thanksgiving, if I feel like it.

4. When do you take the tree down? New Years Day

5. Do you like eggnog? OH YES!!!

6. Favorite gift received as a child? See's Candy!

7. Do you have a nativity scene? yes

8. Hardest person to buy for? Josh - Brother

9. Easiest person to buy for? My Mom

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? do you really think I would admit it?

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Christmas Vacation and Scrooged (And, no Amy, it's not wrong, I want to see Sweeny Todd too!)

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? January, I try to pick up things or make things all year.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? yep, once.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Russian Tea Cakes and Enchiladas

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear or a solid color

17. Favorite Christmas song? Do you Hear what I hear?, Oh come all ye faithful, Oh, Holy Night

18. Travel for Christmas or stay at home? Travel

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen, oh, and of course Rudolph! He's the most important of all!

20. Angel on the tree top? Nope.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Eve

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? That retailers insist on starting the Christmas season earlier each year. I am usually sick of the commercialism before Halloween.

23. What I love most about Christmas? See's Candy! Being with family. And now that my friends have kids, it's so much more about them!

Consider yourself tagged!

long time comin'

2007-12-05T08:09:00.000-06:00

So, I know it has been a while since I last blogged. I know! I just haven't felt like sharing much. Not that things have been bad, because the haven't. I just haven't had much to share. Things were pretty status quo around here. I have been knitting and knitting some more. Then working in my spare time.

Then, bff Jill arrived! Woo Hoo! Mom and baby are doing well. Last week, we all gathered for knit night and there was much baby passing and rocking and stuff. I had the privilege of putting knitting needles in her hand. She actually wrapped her little hand around them for a second. See, corrupting the next generation needs an early start!

The same weekend that Jill arrived, Katey gave those of us who could make it, a lesson in dying with acid dyes. Sherrie and I worked on Saturday. This was my first attempt.
I was inspired by the changing leaves, but this didn't turn out exactly as I expected. It was a little too dark. So Sunday, I went back up to Katey's with Laurie and made a second go. Here are attempts 2 and 3... This was more what I was going for in trying to capture the color of Georgia foliage. Vibrant but more subdued than before. And not so much brown.
This skein reminds me of a truck that my brother once drove. Turquoise and purple with stripes of fuchsia. And yes, I used the bumper of my truck as a backdrop. The colors are more Technicolor than they are in real life, but you get the gist.

I am combining the 2 leafy colors to make a Chevron Scarf. It should go with my new red wool pea coat very well. I think the other will be socks.

Mom visited for Thanksgiving. We spent 5 days working, eating and shopping. We ate turkey with my surrogate Georgia family up in the mountains. And spent the day after at work. The weekend was for shopping and Mom drove home on Sunday. I got a new desk from Ikea. I say desk, but is really just a table top and legs. Very simple and much better than what I had in there.

November has been a month of surprises. The biggest coming from
AmyD on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. I got an email saying she had something for me, and if I wanted it I could have her wheel! I have been planning in the future to get one and have been pricing, but it was going to be a while. In the meantime, I have been working with a drop spindle that finally clicked for me. Amy was doing a purge of her home and decided that while she loved her wheel, she wasn't using it to it's full potential and wanted it to live with someone who would use it. So, she offered it to me. I am so grateful. I can't even tell you. The wheel is a Louet S10 with a winder attachment. The tree behind it is gone and it fits nicely in the living room next to the tv cabinet. I fixed the treadle with a temporary piece of leather, but have the plastic piece on order. I have been spinning just about every day. Amy also sent me home with this...It is all the spinning fiber she had. I have been diligently working through it and have spun up about 4 rovings. With each one I feel more confident, but still need more control. It's getting there.

She also had a bag o'yarn in her hallway, which I gladly took off her hands.
I went through it and then took it to knit night and there is nothing left! So a very big THANKS to AmyD. I really can't tell you how grateful I am for your generosity. And of course, you can visit anytime!!!

On that note, I want to say THANKS to all the Snarkys for sharing this love of craft that we have all become obsessed with.

I have been making quite a bit, but it is almost all hats and mitts. This is going to be the year of Fetching and Dashing and many variations there of. They are both quick and easy, and portable.

Finally, I wanted to share a sure sign of the holiday season. My Christmas cactus has started blooming. I haven't made any plans to decorate this year, as Prue the cat doesn't really appreciate it, and I am not going to be here, and I am just lazy! But, the cacti are blooming and they make the place a little more festive. I may just hang some mini ornaments on my Norfolk Pine and call the place decorated!!!

More Stripes Vest

2007-11-16T17:35:00.000-06:00

I finally got around to finishing up the More Stripes vest from Knitty. I started it in May. I thought I had it finished, but I didn't like the way the arm and neck band in 4x4 rib looked. See for your self.

See the arm band? see how it curls up? That's what 4x1 rib does. So I ripped it all out and changed it to 2x2. Looks much better.

I also did the neck in 2x2 and did decreases at the v so it all lays flat now. I am much happier with the finished project.

I have finished several other little things that I have not taken pictures of yet. Most are for Christmas, so not sure that I want to share them here anyway.

Sunday will a yarn dying lesson with Katey. I will let you know how it goes!

WARNING: Picture Heavy Post

2007-11-01T16:57:00.000-05:00

Much has been going on since last I posted. Aside from the day-to-day stuff like work and life in general, I have finished a few items and been to my first Fiber Fair, and enhanced my stash even more.

First and foremost, the finished objects:

Knitty.com's Foliage out of Malabrigo.

From Lilith Parker's Lair of Lunacy, the Greenery Hat. I did mine in Pink Cash Vero from Cascade.

From Cables Untangled, the Tweed Pullover.

Knitty.com's
Calorimetry out of Lorna's Laces Worsted.

Pink Trekking socks, pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks

I think that's all for now. There is more to come since I am doing little things in anticipation of Christmas.

Now, for my adventures at SAFF...
It all started Thursday morning when Laurie and I picked up KateyJ and headed to Asheville, NC.
Thursday night we visited downtown Asheville and peaked in on Earth Guild and made a b-line for Chocolate Fetish. We got a dinner recommendation for Early Girl Eatery and headed over. Dinner was fantastic. Highly recommend that place. Ran into Claudia and husband. Then headed over to Purls to crash their Knit Night. They were a bit subdued for us so we went back to home base and called it a night.

Friday was the first day of SAFF. So, loaded up with groceries for lunch and all our knitting paraphernalia, we headed out. Here is the view of the floor.

Needless to say, after we picked our mouths up off the floor, we proceed to make a circuit of the place. We vowed to circle at least once before starting the spending spree. I think we all made it! We took a break on the bleachers and became a meeting point for the Atlanta contingent and some Raverlers that were already there. AmyD and Andrea (sadly, blogless) came up for the day and hung out for a while. It was nice to see them! We picnicked on PB&J and snacks and pulled out the knitting and spinning and got to work. Later, in the afternoon, we ventured out the the blue barn for the first meet up. The crowd was small, but the temp was perfect and we had a nice time meeting some of the new people. Sherrie showed up later that afternoon and after she picked her mouth up off the floor, she commenced in making the rounds. We made dinner at home base that night and fell asleep, exhausted, but ready for the next day.

Saturday dawned bright and early and we were all eager to get to the arena for more yarn carnage. I was able to wear my new purple sweater and got lots of compliments. I bought some more stuff and settled in again in the bleachers for some knitting and spinning. I broke out my drop spindle and fiddled with it for a while before giving up and going back to the knitting. Katie and Laurie had their wheels out. Sherrie just made more rounds and hit the booths she scoped out the day before. We also headed out to the vendors that were parked near the llamas. Got to meet some very austere llamas and I tried to stand back because I was not sure if they would bite or not.

And, the look in their eyes told me that I was annoying them just enough that they might spit.

We then went over to see the Alpacas.

Much less intimidating, but kind of the same "I am not amused" look.
Again, we headed to the blue barn for the Ravelry meet up. Boy, are there a lot of Ravelr's out there! The place was packed. The wind was cold and, after a while, we decided to call it a day. Went out to dinner that night at Carrabas. It was cold and windy, but we were on the verge of being "like a hostage" and opted to eat on the patio. There was no one out there, except 2 very cold waiters who gave us their undivided attention. We pulled the table close to the heater, ordered 4 mugs of boiling water to warm our hands. ( I had hot tea) And, passed the napkins to Laurie for warming. We made it through dinner rather quickly and headed back to home base for the night.

Sunday, Katey headed back to the arena early for a workshop on dyeing that was guaranteed not to stripe or pool. The rest of us slept in and headed back a little later. We did a final 10 rounds of the vendor booths and settled in for knitting and stuff in our regular spot. Katey had entered 2 skeins of handspun for judging. One got second place (the purple skein on the right)

and one took Best of Show!

Way to go, Katey!!! We are so proud!

Laurie and I went to take a look at the sheep and goats.

I have decided I am not a farmer type. I will stick with the cats and dogs. Sheep and goats may look cute, but they STINK! In case you didn't know. Cows and horses I can live with. But the sheep and goats have a special kind of stink that I just don't think I will ever get used to. We headed home that afternoon, talking already of what we were going to do next year...

Here is what I walked away with:

A knitty noddy

3 hanks of Colinette Cadenza in the Toscana colorway.

This is Detroit Wool. Sherrie brought it from her trip. I love orange and she knows it!!

This is Miss Babs "Yummy Superwash Sock & Baby Yarn", 800 yards. Colorway is Raspberry Cane.

Brooks Farm Acero, about 420yds.

White Oak Studio "tvyarn" in the X-Files colorway.

Dream In Color "Smooshy" in Cool Fire colorway.

White Oak Studio "tvyarn" Fat Sock in the Pink Panther colorway.

This is 1120 yards of Superwash 2ply from Miss Babs Katey is going to help me to dye the yarn.

This is some Merino/Alpaca roving that I picked up because I simply could not resist its call.

Laurie and I went in together and bought a 5 lb. bag of undyed worsted wool. It currently lives at Laurie's until we can figure out how to split it up. I think the plan is to make 5 1lb hanks and then we are going to dye it!

The trip was fun. But, Monday was back to work and the beginning of the candy season...Halloween is gone and just under 2 months to finish up Christmas presents. I need to get to work!

Death and Taxes

2007-10-16T10:32:00.000-05:00

Only 2 things in life are guaranteed...death and taxes. Unfortunately, the taxes are still due, even after death.

So, things were relatively quiet up to last week, when a very dear friend passed away. I was gone this weekend to the visitation and to be with my surrogate family. It was very difficult, but time, as they say, heals all wounds. What they don't say is that the spot where the wound was could continue to ache for years to come.

This time, grief did not spur on my need to knit. I took one project with me but only worked about 4 rows and just couldn't do anymore. My brain is fried. After a good night's sleep tonight, that should change. SAFF is the weekend after next and boy, am I ready. I have had a request for a pair of pink socks, so I will be on the hunt for sock yarn. I am hoping to be able to limit my purchases to things I can not get locally. Let's hope I will have some self control...whatever. I just am looking very forward to being in Asheville, and the mountains and with my friends. If I get to buy yarn, it's a bonus.

I don't have any FO's to share right now. I have a couple of Christmas presents to work on, and the purple sweater. I will definitely share when I am finished.