for the love o' knit

book review

2007-03-20T08:45:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to say that I finally got a chance to look at stephanie grapel's new book fitted knits. It's really lovely. She definately has an unusual style, but there's no mistaking it, it's refreshingly unique. It's nice to see a book of designs that doesn't look like anything else. Sort of Teva Durahm-ish but less artsy and more wearable. I see her as one of the best up-and-coming knitwear designers. And if you like her other patterns, this book is full of really pretty stuff. It's definately on my list of knitting-books-to-buy-if-I-ever-have-money-to-spend-on-books-again. (why is it that everytime I read or write a book review, I always hear a little kids voice going "but you don't have to take my word for it" ?)

something green (and blue and purple)

2007-03-19T15:40:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to knit with this yarn from stitchkommander since last summer when she gave it to me. Since it has some green in it and I finally found a pattern I wanted to knit, I thought it just might do for the something green(ish). The pattern is from the latest interweave (which I happen to have 2 copies of - grimace grimace). They are called Roza's socks and the pattern was created by grumperina whose knitting tastes aren't always in line with mine, but she makes some great socks (and sock patterns).

-the yarn is by artyarns, it is handpainted ultramarino 4, and wonderful to work with

Happy St. Patty's Day

2007-03-17T17:19:00.000-05:00

I chose the Luxe Neckwarmer in Knit 2 Together for my Something Green project. It's a quick knit and, it turned out very pretty. However, if I ever make one again I don't think I'd make it the 9 inches recommend in the pattern. Unless, of course, it will be gifted to a giraffe.

The spiral ribbed red wristwarmers from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, were knit a few weeks ago. They are a definite winner. It's getting a little warmer out finally so, I'm getting a lot of use out of them.

something green

2007-03-10T15:03:00.000-06:00

I started on one of the baby outfits I've been putting off. I took one look at the pattern, which has been translated from german, and realized I better get cracking, because it doesn't make a whole lotta sense. These are the colors I'm using. I'm just subbing varigated yarn for the intarsia, and the body will be solid, that sage color. I hope it turns out cute. I'm making two, the other one in shades of navy and goldish-brown. That one's for a boy, the sage is up for grabs, they're opting not to find out. (which I think is so much more fun anyway!) Both babies are due in May. This was the cutest little baby pattern for summer I could find. It's from Rebecca Baby&Kids no. 16. The yarn is sonata from Elann, which is unbelivably cheap, but so far, not very soft. But it comes in a huge array of colors. And they'll match the pattern yarn to the solids for you. Can't complain, yarn for two cute baby outfits for like 20 bucks. I'm hoping I can soften it up with a little blocking. Cotton usually will.
If you guys want to all knit the same project together- I'm up for that too! I just had to get started on this! But robots and turtles sound good too- I've got a ton of green in my stash (sorry sweater girl! I'll send you some!)

A new knitty!

2007-03-08T21:48:00.000-06:00

This new knitty seems to be less bad than some of the last ones... I like the socks, especially the 'cover' socks. However, they just look like way too much work, way too much. I also like dashing, they are green... and pretty cute. And this scarf is cute, but the yarn is not. Oh and I like this version of the baby sweater to the right and I like the bald baby, but that might have something to do with the fact that I was bald until I was 3...

talk of a second knit along

2007-03-08T13:46:00.000-06:00

What do you guys think of doing a smaller project, like socks, or a toy? Maybe the robot? A green robot for St Patty's day? We could make an army of green robots, that would be cool. I was thinking that we could all probably use a project that uses yarn we already have in the stash, smallish toys are great for that.

She's done!

2007-03-01T13:52:00.000-06:00

Well, here's skater girl's new friend. I hope she likes her.

We have a head!

2007-02-15T21:35:00.001-06:00

a crochet challenge

2007-02-13T08:51:00.000-06:00

Okay, I taught myself how to crochet yesterday. First of all, it's actually pretty easy, I think it's easier than knitting. Not as pretty in my opinion, so I don't think I'm going to become some all out crochet-er. My plan is to make skater girl a present for her birthday, a sweet little doll with some personality. I got the pattern for the dolls pictured above on etsy, from the seller anapaulaoli, her stuff is way cute. I want to make the girl with the bear hat. I'm excited to get started, I've got 18 days to finish it, (and I can't work on it around her)- I hope it's not a disaster!

spring?

2007-02-12T10:15:00.000-06:00

It's far too cold to be thinking about spring but this was cheerfully peeking out of mailbox the other day. I really like their new format, which is basically just to show all the photographs of the patterns and put the patterns at the end. More like other knitting magazines I suppose. But, it does make it seem like there are fewer patterns. Or maybe there just are fewer patterns. I wish Interweave would do more smaller patterns interspersed within all of the beautiful complicated ones. But as knitting mags go- they definately have the best taste! I like the cover sweater, and the green tea raglan Not much else I would try. Maybe the ribs and lace tank and the entrelac socks are amazing. I'm thinking a couple of these projects might look more attractive after I thaw out in a month or two.

2007-02-01T17:24:00.000-06:00

Here they are! I used Cherry Tree Hill Supersock 100% merino. I bought the yarn during my jaunt in Savannah, while visiting IKTI last spring. Unfortunately, I don't remember the name of the store.

You'll Never Believe IT

2007-01-30T16:52:00.000-06:00

I have finished TWO socks that match each other in every possible way. They're the same size, shape and color. Better yet they fit me almost perfectly. They're a little tight but, the socks are for Mom and her feet are a little smaller. I'm drinking an MGD in celebration of my determinism to finish. Sorry, I'll post pictures soon. During this weekend's binge cleaning I seem to have misplaced the camera battery. No worries, it will turn up soon!

spotty scotty

2007-01-29T15:29:00.000-06:00

Here's a little dog made for skater girl over the weekend. I used this very easy pattern. Which, also links to a really cute crafty blog. It was fun to sew something, although I'd like to give him some eyes and a little collar too. Note the sun
*smile*

Belated Bloggiversary

2007-01-29T12:30:00.000-06:00

Ladies, we have been blogging for over a year now! How exciting!

S.A.D. scarf

2007-01-27T12:17:00.000-06:00

After searching for a long time for the perfect yarn for my chunky brown scarf, I finally decided to chuck it and just combine a couple of el-cheapo yarns. What I ended up with, I love. It's the perfect Seasonal Depression scarf. (Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, hence the name) Ever since having moved to the very gray and rainy city of Louisville, where the sun shines maybe once a week if you're lucky, I've been feeling pretty glum. Two of my favorite pick-me-ups coffee and chocolate, were the inspiration for the colors of this scarf. I wish my camera could do it justice, it turned out very nice swirls of all shades of rich browns. And it's very cuddly and thick. Just right for snuggling up and feeling cozy. Even my daughter fell asleep last night holding it. Just what the shrink ordered. (And as everyone can see our kitty, Bath, is getting bigger and bigger.)
One other note, I've been knitting a slew of hats lately and I just came across this handy hat calculator You guys are probably pros at this, but I still have a hard time if I don't have a pattern in front of me!

Spinning Dilemma

2007-01-20T15:46:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I didn't think spinning would be easy. But, I've just spent the better part of Boo's nap (she's going on 3hrs) trying to figure it out and all I have to show is THIS....

However, last night I discovered a new friend named, Donna, at work. She is going to be a wonderful resource for me. Donna owns a real Alpaca and, makes beautiful yarn. And better yet she just happened to have a book about spinning with her which, she let me bring home.

This picture is just to show off the kitchen Grandpa made her for Christmas.

And one more...

2007-01-17T13:59:00.000-06:00

Speaking of non-knitting blogs- I just stumbled on this one
Two friends, many miles apart, taking a photo each morning.
Ambitious, and stunning.

because i haven't posted in a while

2007-01-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to share a couple of my favorite (non-knitting) sites. After the golden globes they have even more fodder, I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

the superficial
gofugyourself

mitts

2007-01-14T17:14:00.000-06:00

Well, after a couple of months of second glove syndrome, I finished the fetching fingerless gloves, from knitty. I'm having to rely on my isight to take photos (which is also why there's only one glove in the photo- but they're both done I swear!) and it's not the best, but here they are and my new coat. This pattern is nice and easy, I'd never cabled before, but the owner of LYS, the knit nook- gave me great instruction. For being as intimidated as I was, it's really easy. And of course the best thing about this pattern is that it uses exactly one ball of luscious Debbie Bliss cashmerino. Which is exactly how much I can afford of the stuff.
I also just ordered a whole buncha yarn from elann to get started on some baby projects. I have two friends that are pregnant and I am looking foreward to knitting some cute, summery little things. (they're due in April and May) And I finished a hat for my brother and I'm working on one for my neighbor's daughter. I'm itching to tackle something larger though. I really want to knit another sweater. Either the central park hoodie from knitscene or if I can ever find a good pattern, I really want to make a wrap sweater like this one My cousin found that same sweater at the goodwill in perfect condition and I've been somewhat obsessed with making one ever since.

Finally

2007-01-12T11:00:00.000-06:00

Found a website today that posts pictures from knitting books. Especially of interest was the two new Erika Knight books. (Classic and Glamour- as seen on Knitandtonic today) I don't know why, but her books are just soothing to look at. While this lovely site doesn't have all the books I'd like to see, it's nice that they do have some. I wish there were more like this!

just a quick note...

2007-01-08T10:28:00.000-06:00

Here's a sweet little tutorial on some yarn flowers I haven't seen before.

blurry tychus

2007-01-06T10:28:00.000-06:00

So this morning I hopped online for a video chat with my parents and my dad was wearing the hat I made him! You can get a snapshot when you're talking to people so that's what this is and why it's not awesome quality. But at least it's a picture.
In other news, I may have found the yarn I was looking for (and thanks for all the great suggestions guys!) Just trying to decide if I need six balls or three for a great scarf. I made one using one skein of Blue sky cotton and it was pretty short. Actually though, now that I'm looking at it, it's only 150 yards. Decisions decisions...
Okay here's a question everyone- what's the typical yardage for a wide scarf?

The quest for the perfect yarn...

2006-12-28T15:27:00.000-06:00

Since I'm stuck here at work I figured I might as well post about my current obsession. I want to knit a scarf. Sounds easy enough right? But I want it to be these things;
one-a bulky yarn- but textured, slubby kind of thick-thin handspun like texture
two- I want a deep, rich, almost shimmery chocolate brown, but just slightly varigated, varying shades of brown, nothing too obvious, like swirls of coffee and espresso
three- it must be soft, really really soft

So far, I've found nothing- some incredibly beautiful yarns but dark browns are hard to come by. The search continues...

Spinning into '07

2006-12-27T19:56:00.000-06:00

There's no better way to get exactly what you want for Christmas then to buy it for yourself. I've never used this strategy before but, I think I like it. And I will definitely do it again.
I've been considering spinning for a while. Here's a picture of my brand new starter kit which arrived about 1 1/2 weeks ago. There's been no time to actually sit down and play with it. I do take it out and admire a lot.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STITCHKOMMANDER!!!

2006-12-26T22:40:00.000-06:00

Hi blogger buddies. Sorry I have been gone so very long. Blue and I have safely made it back to Wisco with all of our earthly belongings. We had a nice little stop over in Louisville and got to hang out for a short while and drop off my beloved Lou (my (ex) car) for stitchkommander and skatergirl to enjoy in her namesake Louisville. I am glad to hear that the knitted gifts are going to good use too! Here is a pic of the promenade bag. I added an extra knit row to the pattern to take some of the stretchiness out and it gave it a little more stability. The yarn is kitchen cotton and I think it will hold up really well. It was a fun and easy pattern that I would definitely do again.

Sometime this week I will be exchanging gifts with sweatergirl and boo. The gift I knit up for boo is from Knit Two Together and turned out great. It is a mouse pattern that comes with lots of different clothes patterns that a little one can easily take on and off. I made the outfit for sister mouse, with a skirt and sweater. I still need to wrap this one up - I left it unwrapped in order to show off my handy work to my friends and fam.

Happy Holidays

2006-12-26T16:55:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone is having a great holiday and got lots of wonderful knitting gifts. I got The Happy Hooker so, it's official, my New Years Resolution will be to learn how to crochet! And I got a lovely market bag knit by IKTI, which I would put up a picture of but our camera was stolen recently, along with my husband's truck. Bastards. Anyway, Skater girl also got Spherey from IKTI and he's residing in her bed as we speak. Sorry for the lameness and not knitting a gift for you too!! It was great seeing you guys even if it was in a rush. Hope all went well getting to wisco. I turned out to be seriously weak on the knitting presents front. I did manage to knit Tychus, though for my dad and he loves it, and has been wearing it the whole time they've been here (my parents are visiting from SC) I had so many projects in mind for others but I am quickly realizing you'd better get started EARLY if you want to knit presents for people (or I better, anyway. I realize there are much faster knitters out there) Anyway, it's been a great holiday, I love my family-
And happy birthday to me! only one more year in my twenties...

So, I'll take Wednesday

2006-12-20T17:57:00.000-06:00

as my day to post, that is.

Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of knit happenings to talk about. Santa has been busy baking cookies with in-laws, trouble-shooting QC problems on finicky chemistry analyzers, and helping track down a Nintendo Wii for someone. Whether or not, he was naughty or nice. Santa did however find an Elmo TMX for Boo. Santa WILL be sorry for this later!

I recently decided to frog the Lovely Lace socks from last springs Interweave. To say the least, I was discouraged when I got to the heel of the second one and realized I had done the first one wrong. Ugh...and the socks were turning out to be a different circumference. I found this strange because my gauge is usually right on. After a little investigation, I realized I cast each sock on for a different gauge yarn. So, what's a gal to do? I restarted them last night and hope to have them ready by my mother's birthday on the 29th (yeah right).

However, I finished my first project out of Knit 2 Together. I would never have picked this book up except, for Stichkommander's suggestion. Now I have a almost a whole book(there are just a few losers) of new projects I want to make, thanks to her.

Boo is modeling the First Hat I made for one of her favorite uncles. It is lined with a cute penguin print fleece(sorry Bill you don't need hats lined with fleece. You live in NV) to keep the wind out while, he rides his bike to classes in Stevens Point.

Knit Bloggers...who's you fave?

2006-12-18T09:06:00.000-06:00

So I just discovered this blog, although I guess it's been around for awhile. My fashionable life. I really like her style and her patterns are very beautiful in a Rowan-esque kind of way. (I'm a total sucker for the really delicate and romantic little sweaters, although I really have yet to make one.) Anyway, check it out. And gals- if you have time or inclination, post about one that makes you happy...
Also, as a side note of sorts, I'm thinking we could have a work in progress day, maybe Friday, where we just put up pics of whatever we're working on. Just a thought.

Hooray!!! F.O.'s

2006-11-26T18:11:00.000-06:00

I've actually finished something!!!! This hat is from a book my mom bought for me called "Book of 100 Hats" or, something like that. This is the only hat I will probably ever make from the book. Most of the hats in it are crocheted and not to mention terribly gaudy.

I love the fish! The pattern is One Fish, Two Fish by Blue Sky Alpaca. This pattern is super simple to follow and could easily be finished in a day (if you have all the equipment called for). I didn't have a second circular or dpns in the size needed so, the project was put on hold temporarily. It's made with the yarn called for by the pattern.

more fun with mac photobooth

2006-11-24T19:40:00.000-06:00

Who's that Chick?

2006-11-14T22:49:00.000-06:00

Just a little sleepy in this one...

I've been meaning to post these for a few weeks. I figured it's never too late to see a little girl in a funny looking chicken costume.

Sorry...

2006-11-14T22:37:00.000-06:00

I know it's been forever since I've posted anything. I swear I've been knitting. I'm just not finishing anything. It's a bad, bad habit and I'm desperately trying to work through it. I'm going to set some goals for myself and, I am absolutely not allowed to purchase anymore yarn until I finish a few projects.

mo fos

2006-11-11T11:37:00.000-06:00

Finally some Finished Objects- I've been knitting- I swear! The first one is the Razor cami which I love and actually finished a couple months ago. It's brown sheep cotton. Mad props to my little skater girl for taking the picture! And the second one is the little photographer herself with her brand-spanking new mittens, those I just finished yesterday. The easiest pattern in the world I think: http://www.knittingatknoon.com/mittenpatt.html You can knit up a pair in a weekend-easy.
A sidenote- we'll be going down to visit IKTI in just a week- looking very forward to that!

I love Flickr

2006-11-10T09:48:00.000-06:00

I may have to start crocheting soon guys.

Happy Birthday To Us!

2006-11-03T11:06:00.000-06:00

This is our 100th Post!

Happy all saints day

2006-11-01T16:55:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween. This is a call for all blog members to post their halloween pics, whether it be of them or their children. Since I have no children, I myself like to dress up. This year I was a mummy and blue was a ghost with a stache. We went to a party and enjoyed a late night out.

Book Review

2006-10-24T08:11:00.000-05:00

After reciving a reminder yesterday from IKTI that I had mentioned I'd do a book review- well, here it is.
First, let me start with this one, Knitting Nature definately a feast for the eyes. Lots of beautiful photos, and if you're some kind of math nerd, you'd like this one. As far as wearability? Not really.
Next,Knitting for peace man, I really wanted to like this one- the cover is so cute, and it's for a good cause and all. The idea is great- here's a bunch of projects that you can make for charities. So, very sparse on the projects, long on the text and big for your heart. I'll pass, sorry.
Okay, Yarnplay, again, really really pretty to look at. liked maybe two projects out of this one. It has neat ideas for color combos. This one I'd put on my christmas list but probably wouldn't buy myself.
next up Greetings From Knit Cafe I have to just take a moment here to say that I really wish there were more coffee shop/knitting places- what a nice idea. Anyway, this book is really cute, I like it a lot. Still not a ton of things I would make, but there is a toddler bathrobe that I just love love love.
And finally, the big winner, surprise! Knit 2 Together Believe me I was surprised too-but there were several patterns that I liked and this book is a tome, it's huge! And I was just skimming, but it looked like a fun read. Don't judge the book by it's dorky cover- it's pretty nice.
All in all, not the best fall book supply I could've hoped for but I'm still waiting with bated breath for Wendy's book- Which I'm sure will be great.

More photos from wisco

2006-10-12T14:51:00.000-05:00

My time back in the midwest went too fast. I had a great time and enjoyed a few days of nice weather, then it got cold and I remembered one of the few reasons I like the south. Right now it is 73 and sunny, a little windy, but much better compared to the snow they got back home last night.

I just wanted to share some of the photos taken with the new computer (which I might add was a huge hit with all the fam and friends- especially Boo). I refrained from posting some of the effects photos that made everyone look a little scary.

Comic book knitting

2006-10-04T16:28:00.000-05:00

So sorry...

2006-09-30T11:32:00.000-05:00

I'm slack. Really really slack. And I apologize. I started back to work for the first time in three years and Skater Girl started school for the first time ever last month. It's been a little hectic around here. But have been knitting! I finished the razor cami and I started on the fetching fingerless gloves from knitty. I've been to the neighborhood Stitch n' Bitch a few times and everything! I just have no camera with which to take pictures and so I've not been posting. But that all will be over soon- I promise. It's knitting season again! The leaves are changing colors! I dug out all my old hand-knits from last winter. Skater Girl's been wearing her kitty hat to school. I love fall. It's the best. We're going apple picking now. Sweet.

Favre would be proud

2006-09-08T09:16:00.000-05:00

Just finished up these packer cosies and sent them off to live in Wisconsin as a very belated birthday gift for my dad. I stretched one of them to can size and the other has a slightly smaller diameter for when he feels like a bottle (of Miller Lite) rather than a can. I think Blue is a little jealous, as are many people (especially in Sconnieland) I'm sure. I have used this pattern a few times, but not yet for use in my own house. Must put that on the list, maybe with some fat retro stripes...

Packers vs. Titans

2006-09-03T13:49:00.000-05:00

For years I've resisted the hype of football season. I've managed in my 27 years to never sit through a whole super bowl, rose bowl or fruit bowl. And, my good friend Seth can attest to the fact I thought the Raiders were from Olklahoma. But, I have finally come to terms with the fact that football is going to be a part of my life whether I want it or not. So, I better start liking it. And I better do it while Brett Favre is still around to enjoy. When I bought tickets for Gator and I to go a Packer game you can guess how surprised he was. Not knowing anyone who owns season tickets makes it hard to find one at a reasonable price. (Actually, now that I'm thinking about it there are some tickets in IKTI's family. She hasn't pulled through for us yet.)

Although, our team lost it was a pretty good time. My father-in-law was more excited to see Lambeau Field for the first time anyway. I must admit, even I almost got goose bumps when we walked into the atrium. During the game I caught every moment that Brett played by camera and, if we flip the pictures really fast we will be able to replay it. When he wasn't playing I spent most of the time trying to catch a glimpse of him on the sideline. Well we're off to Madisonienne and Super Geek's for turkey burgers and to hopefully get Totally Naked!!!

BYW: I was going to post this weekend without IKTI's coaxing.

Inspiration

2006-09-01T14:34:00.000-05:00

It seems blogging inspiration is lacking on this site lately so I thought I might try to stir some up. Speaking of lacking inspiration, I am doing just that as far as my thesis is concerned. I really want to get out of here by December so you would think that I would be able to muster some up. It isn't that I don't like what I do, or my project, or that I don't have an ongoing list of 'things to do', it might be more of a 'where do i start' or 'how do i start' sort of problem. But I have been chisseling away at it, slowly. I keep getting distracted by youtube and itunes... at this rate I 'm going to have a new album everyday (or at least a few songs a day). Must focus, must do statistics, must write scientifically...

On a more interesting and exciting note, stitchkommander has started a new job this week. It sounds like she likes it, and skatergirl just started school. Very exciting business going on up there in KY.

Meanwhile sweatergirl is up in Green Bay trying to get a glimpse of Favre's butt... wish I was there.

Perhaps they will tell us about these events over the weekend.

in stitches

2006-08-11T14:21:00.000-05:00

For anyone out there who has yet to check out Wendy's antics over at knit and tonic- I just have to say I think this is her funniest post yet! I love that blog!

2006-08-03T20:30:00.000-05:00

Tonight I was searching for play food patterns to make for Boo's birthday. While my search was only mildly successful. I did come across the Monster Crocheter. Check it out!

2006-07-26T20:29:00.000-05:00

As you may have guessed from my long peroids of silence, I've had little time for knitting this summer. The first of my Spring Interweave socks is still waiting to be finished. I got discouraged from that project in Rochester, when my yarn got cut by the zipper of my carry-on. Not to mention, the magic loop method totally cashed the cord on my turbos. I'm very unhappy about that. It will be a good opportunity to test the lifetime warrenty on the needles though.

However, yesterday the bug came back to me. I had an early dentist appointment so, I took Boo to daycare first thing in the morning. When I got back I started some laundry and sat down to make her a sweater. I've got a good start on the backside. The yarn I'm using is cream colored and comes from Spain. It was purchased when I was in Savanah with IKTI. Unfourtunately, I have no photos yet. This substitute photo is of the faux tile painted on my bathroom wall, by my lovely sister. She spent three days of her visit from NV in this bathroom. Isn't she awesome!!!!

photo share

2006-07-24T14:16:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some pics of stitchkommander and skatergirl's recent visit.
Here they are at Super Taco. YUM!

And here the two of us are at the waffle house after the Jolie Holland concert (apparently we only like to take pictures whilst eating).

The Horror

2006-07-05T12:49:00.000-05:00

So, my mother in law has this great habit of bringing us all kinds of random stuff that she has found. (where? your guess is as good as mine) On her last visit she brought me this bag, stuffed full of someone's old acrylic crochet work. As you can see from the picture, the colors aren't exactly my "season". (is there a season for acrylic? NEON acrylic?) Since I knit, she said, I might want to do something with it. Sigh. The question is- WHAT DO I DO WITH IT?!!?? What if she asks about it later? I can't throw it away, can I?
Must make mental note- if I am ever a mother in law- this is the perfect revenge on daughter in law, of course, hopefully I'll never have the need for revenge, or acrylic.

Pasha P...

2006-07-02T10:55:00.000-05:00

was found wading in Boo's pool this afternoon. The pattern is from knitty.com. however I used sportweight yarn and size 2 needles. Pasha turned out to be about 5 in tall. Final destination is Stevens Point WI to keep Celly company over the summer.

BTW: This week at work we went live with the new chemistry analyzer. This went much smoother then I was anticipating. However, there were a few moments when I had to sneak out to the car for a little stress relief. I figure if KT can sneak out for a nic fix when she needs one; I can sneak out for a knit fix when I need one.

2006-06-28T13:26:00.000-05:00

I am back in Sconnie for a little summer vacation. I have been hanging out with family and friends and enjoying every minute of it. Last weekend sweatergirl and her munchkin joined me at my family reunion for a little fun on good ol' sandy beach. I thought this pic of the three of us was a good one. Madgator attended for a little while, but then promptly hopped on his boat for some fishing on Rock Lake, home of the lake pyramids.

Now that I am back home I get to play with my kitty too. She showed off for me and we played feather to rekindle our friendship.

a knitting post!

2006-06-25T22:40:00.000-05:00

This weekend we got a new addition to our family. A tiny black kitten who will now go by the name "bath" (yes, named by none other than skater girl) I like to call him Blackie O. He's very sweet and I spent the morning knitting him the wonton from knitty (that's it in the picture, almost finished) I've also been slowly working on this red dress for SG, lying next to it is one of the huge catalpa leaves she likes to pick on the way to the coffee shop. I'd also like to get started knittng this so as to have at least one more summer top before it starts getting cool again. (I know it's a long way off still, but I have no fantasies about what a slow knitter I am!)

Visits from the past...

2006-06-18T20:53:00.000-05:00

Since we've moved into our new house, we have not had it to ourselves. First hubby's brother was staying with us. (no. comment.) then we had some out of town guests, my good friend and great writer, Sam Renken. And his fiance and they're huge bus, pictured. That really got all the neighbors excited, who knew we had so many hippies in the neighborhood? Great fun. The day after they left, Sam's old roomate and his new girlfriend came to stay for a couple days. They were in town for a wedding but we did get to do a few fun things. And finally, our good friends from when we lived here before asked if they could stay with us for a few days, they are building a beautiful house with they're own bare hands and had sold their current house before they could finish it. Rules are, if you have a contractor's loan from the bank, you are not allowed to move in until it is completely done. So they, they're beautiful baby boy, two dogs and two cats have been staying with us until this morning. It's been an interesting few weeks. My oak man and I are happy for the peace tonight. (until aforementioned brother showed up this evening having too much to drink and too much to say). Oh well, here's to family and friends- stress or not , I'd rather have a full house than an empty one anyday. Oh and here's a new book cover for a series of skechbooks I'm putting together.

Ladies, ladies...

2006-06-15T09:14:00.000-05:00

What have you been doing? Apparently spending less time on the computer and hopefully more time outside. That is what I have been up to. My first stint into the woods is complete and I have made it back to the world with modern technology.

Over the past few weeks I have turned one year older, spent several hours at the beach, eaten wonderful food in Charleston, been attached by chiggers, stung by a wasp, almost stepped on several copperheads, and other things along the same vein.

I had a great time working in the woods, but am happy to be back home and even more excited to fly back to Wisco next week. I will post about my not so excessive knitting accomplishments soon.

Quick Post

2006-06-07T23:08:00.000-05:00

My mother-in-law gave me a good household tip regarding knitted dishclothes. I don't take many of her cleaning tips to heart. Not because she's a bad house-keeper but, because she swears by Oxy-Clean. I don't know about you but, I can't get that stuff to make anything sparkle.
Anyway, the good cleaning tip is to run your handmade dishclothes in the dishwasher with your dishes. She said her sister does it all the time. I've tried it a couple of times and it works like a charm!

Ahh...summer

2006-06-07T10:16:00.000-05:00

Things seem to happen when people are outdoors and plants are growing. The days last longer and everyone is sunburned and busy. But relaxed. Or at least that's how it seems to me. We've been strawberry picking, attended (and won) the Kentucky state tree climbing championship, gotten a black eye by falling off the neighbor's porch (kids running around the neighborhood after ten o'clock while the parents are drinking beers in the yard sounds great, but might not be the best idea, but it's not really summer without a trip to the emergency room is it?) and finished the green gable. Weeks ago. But it seems softer and more comfortable everytime I put it on. I had to get skater girl to take a picture of me in it, since waiting around for the hubby to get home is just not working. By the time he does, it's too dark for pictures. So, she did her best, but it is a little blurry. Now your're all caught up. I'm working on a little read cotton dress for skater girl. Trying to make the pattern up. I hope it works!

Weeks Later.....

2006-06-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since my last post. I've completed training on a Vitros at Johnson and Johnson in Rochester, NY. At work, I've been diligently working on correlation studies, setting up QC parameters, precision studies and preparing to train my co-workers. My parents, the in-laws and grand in-laws came over for a cook-out on Mother's day. And, I haven't even told you about the swift and baller I received as a gift. We went to a special four-year-old's birthday party (yes H-bomb that's you) and have been to a couple of graduation parties. We've roofed our house and torn up flower gardens.

Needless to say, things have been busy around here the last couple of weeks. In knitting news, I finished the Gable about a week and a half ago well, at least finished knitting it. I still have to weave in some ends and block it. Overall, I'm happy with the finished product. Next time, I'd try staying with the same needle or only one size smaller on the bind off, in hope of making it easier to get on and off.

oh red gable, how finished you are

2006-05-20T11:55:00.000-05:00

I had to try on the red gable a few times last night in order to make it the right length and I think that I got it! I finished up the sleeves this morning and I will hopefully block it this afternoon. Wheew, I finished just in time to post before I head into the woods (on Monday). I will not have internet access for about a month (unless I come back for a weekend) because I am living in free facilities which do not even have dial up internet.

Blue snapped this picture without my knowledge and it turned out to be one of the better ones, the light outside right now is casting some really unflattering shadows -ick.

Thrift score

2006-05-16T15:16:00.000-05:00

Found these toys at the thrift store yesterday- Skater girl has named them Little Pig Figwort and Blacko Cat. I also picked up an old lampshade and recovered it and... ta da! I love it.
Here's the progress on the Gable- I'm definately adding an inch to the bottom. (no, I did not ask her to be in the picture) Almost done with the sea of stockinette. It fits well so far- we'll see (I hope I hope) Oh, and I did follow the incs and decs that IKTI suggested from the original green gable KAL and they look very nice.
My goal is to be done for the KY tree climbing competition on Sat! My hubby and his best friend are both competing, should be fun.

Miss Gable

2006-05-15T11:53:00.000-05:00

Here it is! I finished Miss Gable on Friday morning, while sitting on the comfy bed in the hotel room. I spent most of the drive to the Twin Cities working on the body. I'm not sure that I really like the fit of this one, so maybe I will cast on for another and give this one to somebody as a gift. It shows off my soft mommy spots a bit too much. I also made it extra long as it seemed very short when I would try it on. I still need to block, which will hopefully help some of the bumpy stitches to lay flat. Plus it will get rid of the wrinkles from travelling.

Happy Mother's Day

2006-05-14T15:44:00.000-05:00

Hope all my momma friends have a nice day!

tea for two, and cha cha cha cha cha

2006-05-13T11:28:00.000-05:00

After many cast-ons and some adjustments I think that my gable may actually fit me. I am one or two rows away from starting the decreases and I plan to follow some suggestions posted at the green gable knit-along. The knitter also offers some hip increases that I will attempt as well. The lower photo that I posted is my first -too small- attempt, but I haven't brought myself to frog it yet because I don't need the yarn. I figure that when I do need the yarn, all thoughts of possibly needing this first attempt will have vanished.

In other knitting news WEBS is having a sale on the beloved Cascade 220. I think I will pick up a few hanks. I am also having thoughts of knitting the hourglass sweater, but it seems like there are some issues with the pattern. Perhaps modifying this sweater to a top down pattern would be a better option. In theory this sounds like a good idea, I just don't know if I am that sure of my sweater-pattern-adaptation abilities. For now I can't afford the yarn so it isn't an option anyway.

Do you ever...

2006-05-11T14:37:00.000-05:00

create a shopping cart at an online store (knitting or not) without the intention to actually purchasing it unless by some miracle you find the balance of your checking account much larger than you thought (and all checks for bills have cleared)? You know, just to see how much all those yarns, needles and patterns you would like might cost?

Yeah, me neither (and I did not do this today at all).

At Last

2006-05-10T14:06:00.000-05:00

My third and final trip to the yarn shop resulted in three things- first, The Knit Nook will be under new ownership soon. Good, I'm tired of them not being open, and maybe now they'll have more yarn. Which brings me to my second point, they only had one hideous yellow skein of cotton fleece so I'm substituting Rowan Cotton for it, I think it will be fine. And third, apparently skater girl knows what a ball winder is. She pointed it out to me in the store. (I know she saw it at IKTI's house but I'm really surprised she remembered)
So, here's how my green gable started. First, I had to reprint the copy of the pattern as the first one is who-knows-where-in-a-box-or-something. Then I realize my needles are missing. I have a vague recollection of skater girl playing with them this afternoon... uh-oh. After much searching needles are found in the upstairs closet. I get ready to start, damn, I only have three stitch markers! Wait! IKTI made me some before I left! But they are who-knows-where-in-a-box-or-something! Argh! I finally locate said stitch markers at the bottom of my yarn basket. Meanwhile, my husband is complaining (can I turn the movie on? what are you looking for now?) One gin and tonic later- I was ready to start. Only to cast on and realize that I was using the long needles... oh my head. So here's my progress... this better be one hot sweater-
Oh and IKTI asked me to post a pic of the wonderful socks she made me, here they are.

The Gable

2006-05-07T07:42:00.000-05:00

Here's my start! I started on Friday night after work. Thing are going pretty well. However, I might be having the opposite problem IKTI is having. My neckline line almost seems like it will be too big. More like an off the shoulder kind of thing where, her's is turning out to small. What a difference the knitter will make. I'm going to keep trudging on for now and see how it turns out.
I have half a row left until I'm finished with the lace at the top. Last night I broke the "last row rule" when I fell asleep midrow. Since it was only a knit row I think I'll be able to pick up my spot no problem.
I'll be away from the computer for a few days. I'm leaving on my work trip to Rochester, NY this afternoon. I printed off all the yarn stores in the city incase I end up with some free time. I've promised myself not to buy more yarn until I finish a project though. So, maybe I should stay away from the store. I do need a cable needle for my next project though. Boo will be spending a couple of days with her grandma and grandpa. I know they just can't wait to get her away from us.

The Moment You've All Been Waiting For.....

2006-05-06T14:37:00.000-05:00

It's Miss Gable! Isn't she pretty?
I've been working on her in between pieces of H-bomb's sweater, which I finished last night. I started the second skein of yarn before I went to bed last night and have about an inch to go before I start my decreases. It will have to wait a bit while I finish some long overdue weeding in the backyard. And snipping some of the lilacs off my neighbor's bush, since they're over the fence......

The value of context

2006-05-05T21:52:00.000-05:00

Here in Louisville, the biggest holiday of the year is tomorrow. They have spent the last two weeks building up to it. There's an enormous fireworks display to start it all, a steamboat race, an insane parade, beer walks, artwork, the news has constant updates on the weather in regards to events, and updates on the horses. There's an official drink (the mint julep of course, which I will be lifting my brown liquer ban to drink tomorrow), parties and galas. And oh the hats. My three year old daughter learned what the derby was at storytime at the public library. This will be the 132nd race. And it all lasts about 3 minutes. Or maybe less. And, interestingly enough, there's races all day, the derby is just one in the middle somewhere. Don't ask me why it gets so much more press, it has something to do with the age of the horses. Tomorrow we'll be dressing up and heading over to a friend's house for the big event. No, we will not be going to the track, we're too poor. But, it's been exciting, and will be seen in skater girl's eyes as being as big as halloween. At least as long as we're here.

lots of helpful hits

2006-05-04T11:36:00.000-05:00

such as this chart someone hand calculated and posted:

XS: 150 st, or 30 inches
S: 164 st, or 32.8 inches
M: 186 st, or 37.6 inches
L: 206 st, or 41.2 inches
XL: 232 st, or 46.4 inches

so that kind of explains why my 34 didn't fit (and didn't for lots of people...)

The for-real green gable knit along has lots of tidbits and hints. For example, you are supposed to do a backwards cast-on. I don't know what this is and don't care to find out just yet. So what you can do instead is do the long-tail cast-on and skip that first purl row.

http://ggknitalong.blogspot.com/

the wind right out of my sail

2006-05-04T10:40:00.000-05:00

Last night I tried on the green (red) gable, just to prove to myself that it was indeed too small. And it was. I had even added 3 extra increase rows and no dice, the neckline was not at all boatlike either. I am not conceding that I am not a 34, (because I measured and I am), but that I am not a small - this much is true, I am most often a medium. The measurement of the green gable around the body, just under the pits is 30"... should it not be 34 here? I feel like there is a piece of the puzzle that I am missing, like I screwed up somewhere or completely forgot about some aspect, but for the life of me can't figure it out. Anway, now I am back to square one. I have cast on for the next size up, plus 1 stitch extra on each shoulder to account for my "well endowed" shoulders. Boo hoo.

we made it!

2006-05-02T15:55:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are in not so sunny louisville. I do love our house and the neighborhood is downright adorable. So far, all the neighbors have come out an introduced themselves and there are kids on all sides! Two of which are girls skatergirl's age. wow. how strange compared to our small southern town where it was a real challenge to find anyone for her to play with. Posted are a picture of IKTI helping pack skater girl into the moving van, SG in the new kitchen, and the front of the new place. I may post pictures of the inside when it gets cleaned up- whenever that's gonna be.

On a knitting note, I was feeling depressed and restless today so what to do? Go to the LYS! I decided to go to the larger, not so local one, Sophie's fine yarn shop and came up empty handed- while they have lots of lovely stuff, no brown sheep cotton fleece. I do know though, that the closer one, the knit nook does. Guess I'll go check that out tomorrow, as it's too late today. I think it's going on two or possibly even three weeks since my fingers have even touched yarn- yikes.

Let the mini knit along begin!

2006-05-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

The green gable yarn arrived on my doorstep yesterday. Just in time for the May 1 start date. I was only charged for my order today, apparently it took a while for the transaction to go through, leading me to think that it had not been sent yet. But alas, it is here.

As soon as I got home I got started on it right away and I have now completed the detailed portion at the top. It is a simple pattern and is going smoothly thus far. I really appreciate the lack of excessive purling in this pattern.

Who will be next to join me in the quest to conquer the green gable (is that appropriate, conquer?)?

she left and took my heart

2006-05-01T14:29:00.000-05:00

Or my skatergirl... you know, whatever. Stitchkommander moved on up to Louisville last week. She is now almost exactly halfway inbetween sweatergirl and I. She left blue and I with some gifts. For the man who has everything and an aptitude for wine tasting - a wine journal. For the lady obsessed with knitting (but hardly having everything), a knitting journal. Blue's is a simple and refined cover, while mine is nice a crazy with lots of great images from our old school magz. Thanks for the great journals, Blue used his last night and I will start entries in mine soon.

(back of knitting journal) (front of wine journal)

P.S. we miss you.

New Addition

2006-05-01T11:29:00.000-05:00

This bookshelf was handbuilt for Boo by her Grandfather and wedged to her bedroom last weekend. The story goes.... Grandma was very persistent that Grandpa build a toybox for the little girl. I wanted to have something that could be multi-functional so, we have storage other things like books and brick-a-brack also. So, I kept trying to avoid the subject until I figured out exactly what I wanted. Avoiding this was very difficult (it was brought up every time we talked to them). One day, when going through the Pottery Barn Kids catalog, I saw a bookshelf similar to this one. (How we started getting Pottery Barn Kids or Pottery Barn Catalogs, I don't know. I'm sure someone who doesn't like me put my name down to get it. It's torture looking through at all that cute overpriced kids stuff that I know I can't buy.) Anyway, I took the picture to my father-in-law and asked if he would make this bookshelf. It turned out absolutely beautiful. There's a matching bed, that might be in the works too. We have a while before she's out of her crib though.

In knitting news: while on the west side of town this weekend. I dragged Gator into Coyote Yarns. They had the Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece,used for the Green Gable, onsale and only two colors left. I picked up the Topkapi Plum for myself. I called Madisonienne to tell her about about the sale, incase she wanted the other color called Mint Condition. She was on her way to Milton to drop of H-bomb off for the night. Then we went to Target to buy these cute chalk board baskets for Boo's shelf. I couldn't let that yarn get away from Madisonienne at that price though. I made Gator take me back to the yarn store after Target. He was thrilled with the whole shopping experience. I consider myself lucky to have made it back home considering, how much he likes Target and yarning. Sometimes, I think he might actually love me. I hope Madisonienne likes the color. Maybe she'll post a picture of it as her first post on our blog.

When did...

2006-04-28T19:14:00.000-05:00

all of our friends suddenly become the "Smith's" instead of "Dick and Jane"? I realized this when Cory and I were chatting this afternoon.
He said, "Are the people staying for dinner?"
I said, "What people?" after all, this was a few hours after the orignal conversation.
He said, "The Schmick's and The Wilcox's?"
I said, "OH! The Schmick's are. The Wilcox's are still uncomfirmed."
He said, "Maybe, I'll ask Charlie and Mandi." (This couple could also be referred to by their last name. I will refrain though, to protect thier identities.)

Then I think to myself, "Hmmm I remember before we were the Chrisinger's? Not to mention, we have the Chrisinger's#2 (Cory's brother and wife) the Taylor's, the VonFalkensteins, the Crowley's (2x because there are twins), the Lueck's, and the Stocklin's among others. I was at most of these weddings. Except the Taylor's and Wilcox's whom were married before I met them. And the first of the Crowley's who had a spontaneous Vagas wedding (also before I knew them).

Then I feel relief at not having many weddings in the near future. We couldn't afford many more gifts!

trying not to get sad

2006-04-25T09:53:00.000-05:00

so my new favorite website of the moment is you grow girl- it's gardening for the people! mostly female people. I have her book and I love it. can't wait to start gardening at our new place!! Here's a goodbye picture of our luscious Southern yard- I hope the new people enjoy it as much as we did.

Knitting Hiatus

2006-04-24T20:05:00.000-05:00

Shortly after I finished the alligator, I joined the club and started the Lovely Lace Socks in the Spring 06 Interweave magazine. I barely finished the ribbed cuff before I completely lost all ambitions for knitting. This lasted almost a week and a half. I still carried my knitting bag everywhere (it's kinda like a cyst, it goes everywhere I go). But, I didn't even have the urge to knit in the car on the way to or from our Easter holiday celebrations. Finally, on Friday night a spark was rekindled. I picked the sock back up and I'm almost ready to turn the heel. Now that I got a good start I can't put it down. The pattern is easy to remember so it's going quickly for me. I'm excited to have my first sock completed. However, I keep reminding myself that one sock is only the half way point.
BTW: Stay tuned! The For the Love O'Knit gals are going to do a Green Gable mini-knit-a-long. And we've invited Madisonienne to join us.

Delayed, but still stitching

2006-04-23T08:39:00.000-05:00

Well, although I feel bad for not posting in awhile, I still don't have any knitting news. Between home hunting and buying, travelling to Kentucky and back and trying to get goodbyes in with everyone here, I just haven't felt like knitting. However- what you may not know is that in my pre-knitting days I would make books. Blank books, with collaged covers and hand bound pages. I've been making a few of these for some of my writer friends. I've decided to post some pics of the newest one that I finished for my friend Jon Longo. Unfortunately, I didn't get any pics of the one I made for my friend F. Simon Grant. But it rocked. Oh, and the reason I'm mentioning them by name is because they're writers, and need all the help they can get. I'll be posting a couple more of these books, for two reasons; one, this is all the crafting I'm doing right now, and two, the next book is actually knitting related.
And hopefully, maybe after May 1st we can all start knitting Green gables together...

Bunny BooBoos

2006-04-13T09:40:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share pix of these cute little bunnies. Cory's mom made these for Boo to share, with her friends at daycare. (Yes I realize that rhymed)
You put them in the freezer to use when your little one gets an ouch. How cute are these?

2006-04-10T22:25:00.000-05:00

Boo and the Lion

Lookin good in my Strawberry hat from Lauren

Swingin with Grumpy! This one is for IKTI.

2006-04-10T11:06:00.000-05:00

Last night, after hours spent improving my finishing techniques, the alligator finally came to life. I'm not kidding when I say hours. It took two bad movies on TNT, Capote and an episode of Grays Anatomy. That's far to long if you ask me. If it weren't for having to sew up the back seam on each toe and leg it would have gone a lot faster. I have ideas on how to eliminate all the sewing next time I make an alligator. But, I don't see why I would ever need to make another. Instead of going to buy more yarn, my solution was to make one leg the same color as the underside. I think it gives him character!

Don't worry. I didn't waste the whole weekend indoors sewing. Saturday boo and I got out to play and went on a very long walk. Sunday morning we took her to the Henry Vilas Zoo. It seemed like every one in Madison had the same idea. The zoo was pretty busy and all the animals were actually out to play. Boo really enjoyed the lion who was pacing back and forth in-front of his window. She got right up to the glass and giggled every time he got close to her.

work avoidance tactics

2006-04-07T20:02:00.000-05:00

Sweater Girl is: Mohair.
You are a warm and fuzzy type who works well with others, doing your share without being too weighty. You can be stubborn and absolutely refuse to change your position once it is set, but that's okay since you are good at covering up your mistakes.

I'm not so sure about the warm and fuzzy part.

packing avoidance tactics

2006-04-07T13:09:00.000-05:00

Stitchkommander is:

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

(and yes IKTI, I think you ARE mercerized cotton.)

productivity avoidance tactics

2006-04-07T12:55:00.000-05:00

What type of yarn are you? I found a link to this quiz on Sable's blog.
I am apparently Mercerized Cotton.
"You are always very crisp and neat. You are very playful and are happiest while outdoors in the sunshine. You are sometimes accused of splitting hairs, but in the end people find you pretty easy to live with." 3% of the people that took the quiz got this result. That is an incredibly small percent. I don't think I am mercerized cotton, but whatever - I would say some sort of wool, hand dyed and hand spun. I'm going to take it again!

Time to felt

2006-04-07T09:58:00.000-05:00

I finally made the huge icords for the felted bag I am making. They weren't too bad considering how much I was dreading them. But then I had to sew the darn thing up and I really don't like doing the mattress stitch. It looks great when you are finished (if you do it right), but it isn't that fun and always takes longer than it should. Anyway this bag is just about ready for felting! Sounds like a good project to do over the weekend. Oh and the other thing is a striped ipod case - ready for felting. More images.

Knitting Group

2006-04-06T11:47:00.000-05:00

Last night I met up with Madisonienne and Lee from Stash Dreams at the northside branch of the public library. There is a group that meets there to knit every other Wednesday. I worked on a bonnet that I started making boo last fall. Unfortunately, I've set it aside too long. I think she's already outgrown it. At least I'll be able to take it off my list of unfinished projects.
The real excitement happened when we got home. We walked into Madisonienne's house to the sound of the shop-vac and Cory yelling from the living room "It's under control." They're toilet was overflowing. I feel for them having had nearly the same thing happen with our drain about 6 wks ago. Maybe it's Madisonienne's turn to make a Gator now that there's one in her toilet.
BTW: My Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn arrived from IKTI yesterday! I can't wait to start making the Interweave Socks. I must finish the gator quickly.

16 toes

2006-04-03T23:23:00.000-05:00

I'm almost done with the gator but I've run out of yarn. I have all the toes finished. I just need to finish the 4th leg and sew it together. The small little ball of yarn at the top is all I have left. This won't even get me through the leg. I'm so disappointed that I have to go by more yarn.

Grey's Anatomy

2006-04-02T22:03:00.000-05:00

For a long, long time I've been an E.R. fan. I haven't found another medical show in so long that could even compare. But, now Grey's girls are knitting and E.R. has never ever had a knitting episode! Watching Meredith knit reminded me of watching my mother-in-law. Her motions are so mechanical; it makes me tired just watching her. I've only knit with my mother-in-law once. I had to fight back the temptation of taking the needles out of her hands to finish the scarf she was working on. But, what's up with Izzie? She finished that whole sweater in just a day. Izzie is a knitting wizard.

It's a Bear's Life

2006-04-02T15:14:00.000-05:00

TGIF

2006-03-31T17:56:00.000-06:00

I'm having one of those days where I seem to have left my brain somewhere. The morning started out ok. Boo and I folded clothes. She really wanted outside to swing so, I finally gave in. I didn't last long because of the cold wind today however, she was having a blast. She didn't want to go inside so, I put her in the car and drove her around the neighborhood. We chatted about the things we saw and explored streets we never use. Then it was time for her to go to daycare and everything started to go wrong. Maybe because I've had The Pixies song Where is my Mind in my head all day.

First, I stopped at Michael's on my way to work. I bought two matted pictures and picture frames for our living room. After I purchased them I realized that they were a pack of two. So I actually bought four pictures for our living room. I also bought six balls of Country Side Ombre Sugar N Cream. I love that color and have been looking for it for a while.

Second, a Dr. from urgent care came to find some test results. The reason they didn't have results yet was because it wasn't done of course. Well, I went up to the analyzer without thinking and to the tube of blood out. How stupid is that? Then I had to tell the Dr. it would be another 30 min because the tube was in my hand and I had to start over now.

The last thing so far is the most upsetting though. I went to take my break(my knitting break). I take out the gator; go for my pattern and it wasn't there. Do you know how devastating it is when you are all pumped to sneak in 20 min or so of knitting and something like this happens?

Hopefully, things will turn around for the last part of my shift.

Toys for All

2006-03-30T14:08:00.000-06:00

Perhaps we should change the name of this blog to for the love o' knitted toys? I too have postponed other knitting projects to start on a little bear. One of Jess Hutch's irresistible patterns. Once you start, it knits up so fast, it's totally addictive. And I've decided that the reason I hated double points so much is that they weren't bamboo. Since these don't slide all over the place it makes life so much easier. IKTI came over last night and we didn't get much knitting done watching "Memoirs of a Geisha". My opinion over all? Eh. Now, back to work, while skater girl takes a much needed nap.

Spying on Your Neighbors

2006-03-29T10:51:00.000-06:00

We moved into our house a little over a 1 1/2 yrs ago. Over this time I've been trying to figure out what goes on across the street. The Victorian style house is blocked by a row of pines so, you can't see it from the street. The driveway curves around to the back of the house. There are different cars going in and out of there constantly. I once asked Cory's grandpa to come over and help me figure out what's up over there. He's become a professional at watching out the front window since he retired 25-30 yrs ago. He told me it only take a couple of weeks of constant practice to figure out what's going on at your neighbor's. My imagination of what's going on over there finally got the best of me. Was it an old home split into apartments? a group home for battered women(it's mostly women that come and go)? maybe they are drug dealers? Finally, I googled their address and I would have never guessed that it was a yoga studio. To bad it's to pricey for me to partake.

accomplishments of spring break + 1 day

2006-03-28T12:44:00.000-06:00

After piling up everything I have been working on over spring break, I can't help but notice a color them going on. Apparently I am really into the blue and green color combos. I don't see anything wrong with that accept for variety maybe. Last night I finished up the robot - lots and lots of sewing, I think it took me an episode of 24 and an episode of CSI. Night time drama sure is good for knitting. Although I don't think blue appreciates when I ask him to fill me in because I'm not watching due to knitting. The robot will be used in a silk screen barter. Hurray. I really like how it turned out and despite my grievances with sewing, another robot or two is probably in my future. The other items in the photo include my jaywalkers (1 finished, 1 caston), freshly balled green sock yarn (to be sent asap to sweatergirl), and a large piece of knitted fabric to be sewn, felted, and gifted.

Another Busy Weekend

2006-03-27T21:54:00.000-06:00

Well, another weekend gone and very little knitting completed. I did however manage to get a lot done around the house. We bought new dressers so I was busy weeding out things hardly used any more. I really need to do this more often. I have a garbage bag and a half of shoes for Goodwill. I haven't even seen most of these shoes since we moved in here and, most were from high school. I'm still waiting for the ambition to sort the sweaters. I'm sure I'll find some sentimental reason to keep them all. For some reason shoes and sweaters always find a place in my heart. The weather was nice so we did get out to play a little too.

lovely links

2006-03-27T13:03:00.000-06:00

I just stumbled accross this toy maker she's got a blog at gourmetamigurumi.blogspot.com. So much talent, check out her other toys! It's all part of something called amigurumi, which is japanese I know, but after that, I'm lost. Also one to surf is Kitty Craft This is just a site of beautiful japanese craft books that IKTI and I have both drooled over... that's all for now, ciao

Home Sweet Home

2006-03-24T14:24:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I arrived home from my "Spring Break" with IKTI. We got a lot of knitting accomplished some shopping and a little sight-seeing. One of the highlights was our venture to Charleston to meet up with Stichkommander for an evening. I do apologize to her though. The night before we met ended up being our only night out on the town and, I wasn't feeling so hot the next day. While I was gone I finished a pair of booties from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, a washcloth and, most of the underside of the gator. Not to shabby!
As for tonight, the hubby is on his way to LaCrosse to visit his brother and pick up some furniture. Boo and I might have dinner with a friend I haven't seen in a while. Then as soon as she's in bed my plan is to finish gator's belly and start the legs.
BTW: This is a Virgin Mary statue from the bar we were at. And yes we did make our new bartender friend Anna pose with it. It's on-top of a HUGE bucket of Bloody Mary that's all mixed up! It was awesome! We taught Anna about how Bloody Mary's come with a chaser of beer in WI. She loved the idea!

Spring Hatter

2006-03-23T21:58:00.000-06:00

Here's my newest FOs 1. the baby booties to match the little bonnet of an earlier post, (these were also knit using a pattern from knitting for two) These will be given to the mom as soon as poor skater girl gets over her bug. The baby's name is Violet Eve and she was born this past weekend, awwwww...
2. A quick little hat which is probably my favorite hat that I've knit to date. I made it up using only ONE ball of this incredibly lovely soft alpaca from AC Moore. Basketweave. The double decrease suggested to me by stinkerbell worked very well and the pattern looks nice on the top.
sorry about the lighting, it's late.
I hope that my fellow bloggers will post pics of Charleston (hint hint) I had a great time!

2006-03-18T14:37:00.000-06:00

and steve helped too (with the photoshopping and cropping)
Thanks steve! (he already gets more than enough knitted gifts though)
The banner could use some help resizing/repositioning... fellas? any ideas?
What would we do without people who know about computers/computer programs?
Thanks again!

Banner

2006-03-17T11:59:00.000-06:00

As you can see we have a new banner. We all owe Christian and Cory knitted goods for helping me figure it out. Also Cory and I got through it and only got slightly irritated with each other. I see that as an accomplishment for a married couple.

2006-03-15T20:33:00.000-06:00

Does anyone have a good small unisex baby hat pattern? Someone from work would like me to make booties and a hat for an up coming grandchild.

2006-03-13T20:35:00.000-06:00

My intention for the weekend (for last week actually), was to finish the top side of the gator. It of course didn't happen. I don't know why I can never accomplish my knitting goals. I don't think that I set my standards too high, things just never seem to go my way. I worked a dayshift on Friday so I was excited to have knitting time after baboo went to bed. But, I guess getting up at 5:00 a.m. is too early for me. I feel asleep about 8:30 while watching Baby Einstein before bed. I then got very angry at Cory for waking me up by talking on the phone to loudly. Saturday we went to Cory's Grandparent's house in Janesville. I gave Grandma a refresher in knitting while Cory learned how to make jigs with Grandpa. This should have opened up a knitting opportunity for me however, I ended up letting Grandma practice on my project. She bought fun fur for me to teach her with. Not only did she buy fun fur; she bought the same color fun fur as the needles she bought so it was very difficult for her to see what she was doing. She got a pretty good start on a scarf. Sunday I had a migraine and pink eye so needless to say no knitting was completed. I can't believe I didn't end up with the stomach bug that's going around too. I only have about 10 rows. Will I ever finish?
BTW: While I was on my lunch break today a doctor that comes down for a cup of coffee at the same time as my break talked to me (this is random most Dr's keep to themselves). He said "So how's that coming along anyway?" I was taken off so off guard that I blushed. Then, I showed him the picture and he took a close look at the project. He approved of my color selection and then was on his way!

coputer geekdom (or how software companies f**k you)

2006-03-09T14:44:00.000-06:00

So, I am looking at this site at my parents house who have not only wireless and DSL but firefox. They are super techno geeks- I did not inherit that gene. One brother works as tech support for apple computers. The other recently quit his job as web designer to come back to school (to possibly study artificial intelligence ??!!) Anyway, they all have airports and can run music through their computers into the stereo system wirelessly from any where in the house. And you can sit at the kitchen table and surf the web and send things to the printer upstairs. It's like freaking sci fi over here! My hubby and I don't even own a coffee maker! What this whole rant adds up to is that even though we relented and bought a nice computer- this website comes up at my house with NO options, no way to hyperlink things, no way to change font or color- NADA. So goes the ongoing problem with technology- your constant need to keep up with the ever- changing ever-evolving process. The program that works beautifully today, will be obsolete tomorrow. Sometimes I just wish I were Amish and could be done with it.
And this my friends, is why knitting is subversive.