Yarn Crawl

MOVING!!!!

2007-01-02T16:54:00.000-06:00

I decided to get a Typepad account - I was able to successfully import all of my past blog posts and do a lot more formatting than I knew how to do on Blogger so I am a HAPPY GIRL.

Here's the new address:
http://yarncrawl.typepad.com/

I will start posting over there right away, so please join me there!

Knit from Your Stash 2007

2007-01-02T07:30:00.000-06:00

I discovered that there's already a site that's consistent with the plan I had for '07 regarding knitting from the stash - and I'm in! Here's the link - I'm following the rules as posted here with one exception - that I will only do this for 8 months until Stitches Midwest instead of 9!

I don't have any particular weakness for sock yarn, but I do have a major weakness for sale yarn so I may be calling on the "fall off the wagon once" card. I have this freakish tendency to remember which yarns were called for in my knitting pattern books and recall this whenever perusing yarn sale web sites, etc. and feel compelled to purchase this particular yarn if on sale. Then it usually ends up sitting in my stash, I decide I really don't want to make that item and I repeat the cycle all over again.

Also, on the rule about being able to accept gifts of yarn - I will modify this to say " I'm allowed to accept gift cards and use them for yarn." Such as, Visa, Amex or Ebay gift certificates. I do get these from time to time, so this could become relevant.

This will be interesting...last year I planned a monthly spend of $200 for yarn and couldn't stay anywhere close to that most months (often doubling that.) So this will be very interesting to say the least.

Temptation is knocking on my door right away though, between the email from discountyarnsale.com regarding closeouts and the email regarding the second tier of Kool Knits' store closing markdown (not yet reflected on their site...now it's 50% off on some yarns and further reductions on the others.)

First Post of 2007: New Skirt and Stashbusting Project #1!

2007-01-01T10:31:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to everyone! I woke up my favorite way this morning - next to my husband on one side and my cats on the other, without a hangover, so it's a good day so far!

Last night we went to Blu Coral for sushi with our friends Tim and Paul, with the intention of staying for their New Year's Eve celebration, but after sushi and two martinis, I was just wiped out so we ended up going home at around 10. We had driven Jim's "beast" (93 Mark VIII that is our "leave at the train station, still running at 140K miles, beater" car) with the intention of tying one on, taking a cab home and leaving the car overnight to be picked up the next day. When we left we really were fine as we hadn't drank excessively, but just played it safe and called the cab as we knew there'd be tons of roadblocks out, etc., even earlier in the night. We'll just pick up the car this afternoon.

I'm so NOT a stay out late person anymore - I always think about what I'm going to feel like the next day now. UNLESS I'm drinking wine, in which case, all bets are off. With beer or mixed drinks, I usually stay in my right mind, but as my husband can attest, wine is an entirely different story.

In sewing news, I found this pattern and snapped it up as I love skirts with a wide yoke waistband (don't know what this is officially called - is there a better name?) I have some of these skirts and they fit me really well so I thought I would make one for myself. I'm going to try the one labeled "A" first.

Here's the fabric I am going to use - I actually had this in my fabric stash (although there is no "goal" for 2007 regarding no fabric purchases, I still would prefer to use what I have first.) It's a really really fine-waled corduroy so I think it will work for this. They list "baby cord" as one of the recommended fabrics.

This actually requires a zipper so I am going to be trying that for the first time on this project. The new classes at the JoAnn Superstore are now posted, but the 2nd one is making a vest. The instructor had thought it would be either making dress pants or a skirt, including learning how to put in a zipper, but a vest is something I don't really wear. I'd be more likely to wear a knitted one than a sewn one.

The class after the vest is something I'd like to do though - making a suit! Seems so complicated! I'm just wondering if I should sign up for the vest class as preparation for the next class that follows it. It is only two Saturdays and only costs $40. The suit class is $100 for four sessions, three hours each, which really doesn't seem that expensive considering how much instruction that is, and the fact that the classes are only like 5 people. I like that aspect of it a lot, and I really liked the instructor for this last one, so maybe I'll email her and see what she thinks about all this.

Now on to stashbusting project #1: I had some partial skeins of Noro Silk Garden left over from Klaralund, so decided to make this project from the latest Knitty. I saw Lynda's Calorimetry made from Noro Kureyon (same gauge as Silk Garden) and thought it looked cool so the wheels started turning on this little stashbuster while I was looking for some "mindless wool" for watching a movie with Jim.

I think it took me a total of 3-4 hours or so. I liked it because there were definite sections to it (kind of like a sock in that way) and when I was just starting to get bored with one section, I'd be almost done with it anyway. I had enough yarn too with the partial skeins, which I was worried about! I'll show a pic of me wearing it once I weave in the ends.

Bonne Marie's Felted Bucket Hat

2006-12-31T10:30:00.000-06:00

Before....

And after....

It's still drying (as evidenced by the towel stuffed in it) so I can't model it yet officially. I would definitely make another one of these - it was a quick and fun knit.

Next time I make this, I would not use chunky yarn though as this made the brim a little too thick (as it's knit double stranded) and a little floppy - I used Peruvian Highland Chunky knit to the gauge recommended. I would just use straight worsted weight next time as the directions state. I usually am a big directions-follower but this time I lived dangerously as I wanted to make it in chocolate and I had the chunky yarn on hand. It may be OK when it fully dries though.

2007 Goals

2006-12-30T13:03:00.000-06:00

I got inspired by other people's lists of resolutions for 2007 and thought I would post mine. I like calling them "goals" rather than resolutions as that resonates more with me and seems more achievement-oriented.

2007 Goals

1. Knit from my stash - no yarn shopping (unless for a gift or if I run out of yarn for a project in process) until Stitches Midwest in August

2. Start and complete one crochet sweater

3. Learn how to do crochet motifs (in the round, granny squares, etc.)

4. Learn how to put in a zipper and sew a pair of pants and a skirt

5. Finish two classes in the UWM state & local tax graduate certificate program (one more to go then in 2008 to finish)

6. Finish at least two more NIU MBA classes and consider taking another in the summer to finish in Spring 2008 instead of Fall 2008

7. Go out at least once a week for a nice dinner "date night" with Jim

8. Be a more consistent blogger - with more posts and pictures about my non-knitting life while continuing to show a lot of pictures of knitting projects...more like a diary of my life including knitting than solely a knitting blog.

FO/WIP Update

2006-12-30T08:46:00.000-06:00

I was looking back over my old knitalong blogs and one was the Two Steps Forward, One Back blog, where you were to finish two projects for every one started. I think I did pretty well with this and have now gotten my WIP down to a reasonable level. I took the old list from that blog and updated it just to see how many projects I'd completed since September and was surprised! Here's the new list. I know I owe you guys pictures on a bunch of these as I haven't blogged about them - I highlighted these in blue so I'd remember!

WIPS

1. Somewhat Cowl in Blue Sky Alpaca & Silk - started two weeks ago on the cruise - working on front, almost ready to join to separate sleeves/work in the round
2. Knitty pedicure socks (working on 2nd sock)
3. Debbie Bliss lace/bobble jacket - working on back

Ready to start my husband's sweater for the Manly Gift Along and Eiffel for the SKC Knitalong!!!

Completed Projects
1. Stitch Diva Knitted Bodice
2. Bob's Big Wool basketweave cardigan from Men in Knits
3. coral CeCe in Calmer
4. Noro Klaralund V-neck (re-sewn correctly)
5. Jaeger Natural Fleece V-neck Zennor
6. Noah's v-neck Yarn Girls "Mikey Liked It" pullover
7. Chic Knits Ariann
8. Rowan Babies "Fame"
9. Tartalette scarf
10. Knitty Blackberry shrug

Projects that Just Need Sewing/Picking Up Stitches/Felting

1. fuschia Cork baby sweater - sew
2. Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran baby sweater - finish sewing
3. Greek Pullover from Interweave Knits – finish sewing

FROGGED
1. Green Gable in Brown Sheep Lilac Haze
2. Plymouth Napa ballet pullover from Interweave Knits back issue
3. yellow/orange cork garter ridge sweater from Rowan Cork Collection
4. Peg's garter stitch vest
5. "Jessica" in Colinette Shimmer 5- (finished but didn't like end result)

Christmas Pics!

2006-12-27T09:20:00.000-06:00

Me and Jim on Christmas morning before going over to Aunt Vicki and Uncle Frank's house. I'm wearing Ariann, actually buttoned. The length seems to have shortened up a bit since I wore it before, so it looks better.

McKenna, modeling her "Fame" sweater (Rowan Babies book). Look at that pose!

McKenna's little brother Noah, opening gifts with his Uncle Danny (Jim's cousin.)

Noah's V-neck "Mikey Liked It" sweater (Yarn Girls Guide to Kid Knits) - we missed getting the shot with him actually trying it on. It is a little big on him but should fit him next year. Last year's sweater was too small, so I guess I overdid it on the size.

Noah's twin sister, Mia, with her mom (Jim's cousin Tracy) and her Dress Me Up dress from the Yarn Girls Guide to Kid Knits.

Aunt Vicki with her new vest in Jaeger Natural Fleece.

Cruise Pics!

2006-12-26T09:33:00.000-06:00

So here's where we were from the 16th to the 21st...

Our "home away from home" - we did a Sky Suite this time and really liked it. The balcony was big enough to have two deck chairs plus a square dining table, and we spent a lot of time out there on the sea days as the pool deck was pretty crowded.

Embarkation...

Getting off the ship at Grand Cayman (they didn't take a pic in Jamaica)

Formal night (only one on this cruise as it was only 5 nights)

"Informal" night at dinner

Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach - LOVED IT! We'd been to the island before but had done an organized air/sea excursion with a seaplane and submarine tour. This time we just decided to take it easy and hang out on the beach. What a fun day!

Last Christmas FO and a New Knitalong!

2006-12-15T09:29:00.000-06:00

Here's my father in law Bob's finished Basketcase Jacket....got up at 5 am to finish it. It was hard to take a good picture of because it's so huge, so I hung it up, but now the shoulders look deformed. It looks better in real life. But it's being wrapped and sent up to northern Wisconsin as we speak (thanks Jim!)

Pattern: Basketcase Jacket from Men in Knits by Tara Jon Manning
Yarn: Rowan Big Wool ("Cloak" colorway)
Needles: Addi Turbo 15s and 13s (for edging)

Something new that I'm really excited about - I am co-hosting my first knitalong starting January 1st! Me and Jeanne started talking about knitting sweaters for our husbands and decided, why not set up a knitalong? I wrote an intro about it, etc. at http://manlygiftalong.blogspot.com/ and Jeanne did an awesome job formatting the blog and made cool buttons for it, set up places for links, and other cool stuff etc. Check it out, and post a comment with your email address (or email me or Jeanne with your email address) to join! It will also be listed on the 2007 list of knitalongs. Here's a link to the old list for 2006, but I'm not sure if it will be on the same site or set up on a new one.

And now, having finished my last "knitting on a deadline" item (this morning) and my marketing final (last night), I'm off! My last day in the office for the year is today, and Jim and I leave for our getaway Caribbean cruise tomorrow morning. I'll be checking email once a day (any more than that and I get in trouble) but will be back on Thursday.

Happy Holidays!

Christmas Gift Spoiler (Peggy, Don't Read!)

2006-12-13T11:30:00.000-06:00

Just finished the felted clogs from the Fiber Trends pattern for my mother in law, Peggy...I think they came out cute! I wish the pattern said what the proper measurements are for each size - I made the small women's size (size 6) for her, which I would wear as well and tried them on - they fit me so I think they'll be fine.

Pattern: Fiber Trends Felted Clogs

Yarn: Mausch Chunky (2 skeins)

Needles: Size 13 Clover Bamboos (16" length)

Also, I'm almost done with my father in law's Basketcase Jacket from Men in Knits - woke up at 4:45 this morning to make the 2nd button band and the collar (DONE). Now all I have to do is weave in the ends and sew the buttons on. Pics to come once I do that tonight after my marketing final...

And now, a little quiz for fun - I got this one from Tricotine. Enjoy!

You are The Wheel of Fortune

Good fortune and happiness but sometimes a species of
intoxication with success

The Wheel of Fortune is all about big things, luck, change, fortune. Almost always good fortune. You are lucky in all things that you do and happy with the things that come to you. Be careful that success does not go to your head however. Sometimes luck can change.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Finished Ariann Pics!

2006-12-13T09:37:00.000-06:00

Here she is....

Pattern: Bonne Marie's Ariann
Yarn: Brooks Farm Riata
Needles: Addi Turbos, Size 5

You may be wondering why there's no buttoned version. I can button it, but because it turned out long, it pulls across my hips as the button is at the fullest part. So it wasn't too flattering. If I made this again with this yarn, I would make a bigger swatch and measure how much it grew lengthwise as well as widthwise. I think it grew 3" in that direction (although I didn't do a final pre-blocking length measurement) as it ended up being 24" long and should have been about 21". The width grew from about 30" (wayyyy too small) to the 35.5" size that I made. That size fits fine in the upper body and would have worked at the high hip, but not over the butt! Which I don't feel too bad about as not a lot of people have a lower hip measurement smaller than 35.5".

Miscellaneous Stuff

2006-12-11T14:56:00.000-06:00

I finished my first pair of pajama pants in my sewing class! They fit very well and the fabric for them cost $8. My sewing class at JoAnn Superstore was very good (thanks for the recommendation, Amanda!) and I liked that our teacher showed us how to adjust patterns to make them shorter or longer. There was a woman in my class that is 6'1" and I am about 5'1" so we both really liked getting this little tip as it's something we'd both need to do on almost every pattern.

Here they are...and I bought more flannel fabrics to make three more pairs yesterday. SICK! Can't wait to take the next class in January - we will be making real pants, with a zipper, in that one.

Yesterday I also went to the Chic Knits trunk show at Arcadia Knitting - here's a pic of me and Bonne Marie wearing our CeCes. I also finished Ariann but I don't have any pics. I'll probably wear that one in a few days to work so I'll take a pic that day to show y'all.

And, since it's the season, here's a pic of me and my crazy tree.

Another Christmas gift down....

2006-12-09T14:58:00.000-06:00

This one is the "Mikey Liked It" V-neck from the Yarn Girls' Guide to Kid Knits; yarn is Elann Peruvian Collection Quechua (65% alpaca, 35% tencel) in colors 2163 (blue) and 100 (cream) held together instead of Blue Sky Alpaca, which was a lot pricier. Done!

I've Joined the Cult (of the Sock)

2006-12-08T10:34:00.000-06:00

1st Pedicure Sock in progress...I used Elann Esprit (cotton/elastic) yarn that I had in my stash from a tube top I started about a year and a half ago as one of my first projects. I love how socks have definite steps - and by the time I'm sick of one step, it's time to move on to the next. Did Yarn Harlot say that in her last book? I read it somewhere lately and it's so true! So I've joined the cult of the sock, and will always have one pair going as the perfect mobile project. My husband was very impressed with the sock, and how it fit so nicely on my foot. He wants me to make him socks now!

Blocking Success!

2006-12-07T20:29:00.000-06:00

Here's Ariann - and after a good bath, she measures exactly what she should!!!!!! I had been worrying...

Story Time

2006-12-06T10:28:00.000-06:00

My story is in response to a meme that I saw on Pixie Purls' blog that I really enjoyed. I thought I would continue it and write mine as well to let you all know a little more about me. I don’t think my story is anywhere near as interesting as hers, but here goes.

Some of you know that I’m an accountant, more specifically in tax, as the director of a mid-size company’s tax department, and people are usually surprised when they find out that’s what I do. I would have never guessed back in junior high or the first few years of high school that I would be doing this. My best subjects in school were always English and Social Studies as I love to read and write and learn about different types of people and societies.

My mom taught me how to read at a very young age and throughout most of elementary school reading was my passion. I would walk to the library with my mom and take out 12 or 13 books that were “too old” for me in a week and read them all. I remember I was reading “Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret” and other quasi-young teen books by Judy Blume in 2nd grade, covering subjects like puberty and sex, so I was “wise beyond my years” for the time (late 70s/early 80s as I was born in 1972.) I really didn’t like being a kid much and always felt older than I was (and now, feel younger than I am – how does that work?)

Since I became an accountant you may be wondering, what about math? Did she like math? Truthfully, I was fine at it but never stellar – liked algebra but hated geometry. And I still don’t have that kind of “engineering mind” to figure out construction-type things in knitting (the loop d loop patterns leave me scratching my head – like how does that fit together?) As for science, with the exception of a few classes in high school, I pretty much hated it. I hated the labs, particularly - they never turned out the way they were supposed to, and I never took anything away from them. In fact when I took the ACTs, my score in math was a 22, whereas my English and Social Studies scores were 31 and 30, and science was only a 20.

So, what careers did I consider? When I was really young I used to want to be a teacher (and I did that for the past seven years online, teaching accounting and tax.) In junior high, I used to want to be a hairstylist or makeup artist. In high school, I alternatively wanted to be an artist, then a psychologist, then a doctor when I really liked my biology and anatomy/physiology classes. My dad talked me out of all of these alternatives. He said I had a mind for business and that accounting was a great career choice. He always had side businesses like auto body shops as well as being an engineer as his “day job” – he knew how much he relied on his accountants and he impressed upon me that I would always have a job (a big deal to him, and ultimately to me.) He also impressed upon me that I should never depend on a man to support me, that I should be self-sufficient and that women could do anything men could do. This had a profound effect on me and I really internalized it. My mom reinforced this philosophy for me, even though it wasn’t the choice she had made for herself, because I think if circumstances were different for her, she may have wanted to be more independent.

When it was time to pick colleges in junior year, my dad said I should go with the school that would give me the biggest (academic) scholarship I could get and live at home in order to stay focused on studying and save money. He said it didn’t matter whether the undergraduate school I went to was a big name or not, because later when I got my master’s, that would be when a bigger name made more of a difference and everyone would only pay attention to where my last degree was from.

All of this advice led me to select St. Xavier University, a small private school on the outskirts of Chicago near the suburbs as they offered me a 50% non-need based academic scholarship. My dad was familiar with the school as he grew up in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, not far from the school, and went to high school at Brother Rice, the Catholic high school nearby. My grandmother had actually worked at the university in the kitchen when my dad and uncle were growing up so that as an employee, she could get the tuition paid for over at the affiliated high school for her kids.

Anyway, with the choice of SXU, I could live at home and work, because my dad said he would pay the other ½ of the remaining ½, or 25% of the total cost, and I would be expected to cover the other 25%. I didn’t understand why he did this at the time as he could have easily covered the entire amount, wherever I would have chosen to go. It (and everything that went along with this) caused me a lot of trepidation then but I do believe it made me a stronger person.

At SXU, I tentatively declared my major as accounting at the outset, but was full well expecting not to like my initial accounting class. Surprise! I loved the rationality of it, and that everything made sense to me. I liked that accounting really was “the language of business” and that it was an important way to get involved in the business world. I liked the focus in my classes on explaining accounting to non-accountants, and aha - here’s where I saw my communication/writing skills setting me apart from some other accountants, who hated the world of words and writing and communication.

So the rest is history. I ended up having to maintain a 3.8 GPA to keep the Presidential Scholarship that SXU had given me and so I graduated magna cum laude. I interviewed with Deloitte for an auditing job and Arthur Andersen for a tax job, and Andersen must have clearly recognized that I was more of a tax person by nature and hired me. I worked at the firm for a year, and really didn’t like not knowing much about each client at my lowly staff level and the bureaucracy of a huge organization. Also I had gotten married the November after graduation to my college boyfriend, and he was extremely threatened by the social aspect of working at the firm – the late night drinking with co-workers, the camaraderie.

So, I quit the firm and began work at a mid-size bank in the western suburbs of Chicago. I did both tax and investor relations work at the bank, and although I didn’t fit well within their culture (stodgy and resistant to change) I learned and accomplished a lot. I also divorced my college boyfriend/husband and met Jim, who would later become my husband in 2002. At 26, I was promoted to Assistant Vice President, and I also started and completed my MST (master’s in tax) at DePaul University, which is nationally reknowned for this program (fulfilling my dad’s game plan for me, although I didn’t think about this at the time.)

In 2000, I left the bank to become the manager of domestic taxation at the US headquarters of a well-known European auto manufacturer. I learned a lot here as well, but again this organization was too slow and bureaucratic for me (they had meetings to plan to plan and were extremely resistant to change) and so I left to join my current organization in 2002. The way it worked out, I ended up having the new job lined up so that I gave notice to the auto company, Jim and I married on a two week Mediterranean cruise, and when I came back, I started my new job here.

After some initial challenges that I got through and working with a fabulously supportive boss who was not planning to relocate to the area long-term, I was promoted to tax director when he left the company in 2004. I enjoy working at my company as it is mid-size (although publicly traded) and there isn’t much bureaucracy. I also love running my own (small) department and I have another great boss who doesn't micromanage anything - basically leaves me to my own devices. The only thing I dislike is that I really like being busy and some days there's not enough to do, even though I'm also working on my MBA now at NIU and have four more classes left.

Ariann - Done with Most of the Knitting Now!

2006-12-05T01:58:00.000-06:00

Ariann after all of the knitting except for the collar...

Here's my post on the KAL blog regarding it....she needs some MAJOR blocking but I am encouraged that everyone else says it makes a huge difference, plus I remember how different my swatch was after washing. "It'll be fine, it'll be fine", is my mantra right now...

It's Official - I Have An Accent...

2006-12-04T16:35:00.000-06:00

This was a fun little quiz to take - I've been told that I have a Midwest accent, but I guess this makes it official! (Although I still don't say "tree" for "three" or "sixt" for sixth.) I guess that would be the mobbed-up version of the Chicago accent.

It is so true that "I (do) think I speak Standard English straight from the dictionary". I also grew up calling carbonated drinks "pop" but somewhere along the line started calling them "soda". My mother (from the Cape Cod area of the East Coast originally) told me that she grew up calling carbonated drinks "tonic". So weird...

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Inland North You may think you speak "Standard English straight out of the dictionary" but when you step away from the Great Lakes you get asked annoying questions like "Are you from Wisconsin?" or "Are you from Chicago?" Chances are you call carbonated drinks "pop."
The Northeast
Philadelphia
The Midland
The South
Boston
The West
North Central
What American accent do you have? Take More Quizzes

Another Christmas Gift Down!

2006-12-01T21:52:00.000-06:00

Edited to Add Pattern Info:
Pattern: "Fame" from Rowan Babies
Yarn: Rowan Big Wool Fusion
Needles: size 15 addi turbos

For McKenna - even though this hanging kinda funny on the hanger, it looks really cute "in person"!

Jim went to a Blackhawks game tonight with his friend Tim so I sat here, caught up on Grey's Anatomy, and finished seaming this sweater. I also finished the 2nd sleeve of my FIL's sweater from Men in Knits. I'll post pics once I have it seamed. Not too many more to go! I finished a lot of Christmas gifts back in August as part of the UFO August KAL, but now decided to get the remaining ones out of the way so I can move on with the projects I want to make!

Case in point - the Somewhat Cowl. I ordered the yarn today from Kpixie - thought it'd be a fun project to take with me on our cruise on the 16th!

Glampyre Knits Easy Raglan V Neck- Body's Done!

2006-11-26T07:09:00.000-06:00

I finished the body of the Glampyre Knits Easy Raglan V Neck sweater so thought I'd show the pics from trying it on. I ended up knitting about another 1/2 inch but now am working on the sleeves. I started the ribbing higher than they said to in the pattern and did it for longer, and I'm going to do that with the sleeves too. I think it looks cute!

Here's one full on shot (try not to be scared by the makeup-less pic - eek - I am such a slacker lately about putting on makeup for pictures!)

and a goofy side pic.

Turkey Wool

2006-11-25T06:50:00.000-06:00

Oh boy....I went to Peggy's Strands of Heaven in Plainfield for their "Fiber Fest 2006 10 Hour Sale" yesterday and bought a LOT of wool (and cotton, etc.) Three sweaters worth plus probably about eight more hats, summer tops, gloves, purses, fingerless gloves worth, PLUS probably three or four singleton skeins for swatching. I am way out of control - I need a knitting intervention as "Pearl" would say!

Here's my score...(yeah, on this post you will be able to tell that I definitely had "help" from my accomplice/husband Jim - and also this is the way I look at 7:30 a.m. after waking up and going directly to the wool shop to get the 40% off from 7-9). Ridiculous!!!

weekend progress on Christmas gifts

2006-11-19T17:46:00.000-06:00

Peggy - skip this post!!!

Over the weekend, I started and finished all the pieces of McKenna's Big Wool Fusion coat - it is from Rowan Babies and is called "Fame". It's even a stash-busting project for the most part - just had to buy two more balls of Big Wool Fusion to make it, and was able to cash in my filled up frequent buyer card at Kool Knits to do so. Yay!

Next up, I knitted both clogs for one of my mother in law Peggy's Christmas gifts - OBVIOUSLY need to be felted as they look like clown shoes right now and she only takes a size 6 1/2 shoe!! Here's one...pre-felting/shrinking!

Thanks, Secret Pal!

2006-11-18T07:33:00.000-06:00

Got this great package from my Secret Pal last night - I especially love the ArtYarns Ultramerino 4! I have to find a really great pattern for it - I think I will make fingerless gloves with it instead of socks. Or, maybe I could buy more and use it for a really delicate sweater. I have to think about it - suggestions are appreciated though!

The other items were totally appreciated as well and were two books from my wish list and some yummy Reese's Peanut Butter cups, which will definitely NOT go to waste. It had been a while since I looked at Luxury Knits, and when I read through it last night, I found a number of things I want to make in there. Thanks again Secret Pal! You're the best!

Try this "Language Arts" quiz - I thought this was fun. Although I may purposely ignore punctuation on this blog (too many commas, run-on or fragmented sentences) I really hate the type of grammatical errors that this quiz points out. Not to sound like a snob or anything, but I think there's a good number of people out there who truly don't know or never learned this stuff (or maybe it just doesn't bother them!)

Your Language Arts Grade: 100%

Way to go! You know not to trust the MS Grammar Check and you know "no" from "know." Now, go forth and spread the good word (or at least, the proper use of apostrophes).

Are You Gooder at Grammar?
Make a Quiz

Progress!

2006-11-16T14:37:00.000-06:00

Just finished the 2nd sleeve of Ariann and connected the pieces - this is going to be a LONG a&& row to work on! I didn't even dare to count how many stitches it is across. But it's connected - I know that CeCe didn't take that long to finish once I got this far, so I'm encouraged.

Edited to add: BTW, as a number of people have asked me which yarn I'm using for Ariann, I thought I'd mention that I'm using Brooks Farm Riata. I bought it at Stitches Midwest in August, and they don't have the color I bought on their web site but I've attached the link. They truly are a great group of people with fabulous yarns. This concludes my commercial announcement of the day.

Also bought the Rowan Country book and a ball of it for swatching the other day - I like it! May make one of the designs in this book eventually...just add that to my huge to-do list!

BACK!!!!

2006-11-13T13:21:00.000-06:00

After being in a marketing-induced daze for the last four weeks, I am BACK!

I made a lot of progress on Ariann, finishing the body and one sleeve, as well as starting the second one.

Also, went for this impulse buy at JoAnn's when signing up for yet another sewing class. Yeah, I'm thinking this is "another Perfect Pancake" as Jim would say (if you haven't heard of this, it is one of those gadgets that yes, I did buy from late night TV. Apparently, there's one born every minute.) It (the knitting machine, not The Perfect Pancake LOL) makes this very weird faux-stockinette stitch and the tension is not easy to figure out. I'm going to give it another go, but I'm thinking it's probably another $65 down the drain!

You can see I had some "issues" with the tension in the first picture - the blue yarn is the swatch that comes with it to "prove" that it works. No comment....

Back to the sewing class - in this one we get to use the Viking Platinum 715 (one of the models I am considering buying) so I'm kind of excited. And I verified that this class truly is going to use a pattern - they thought it would be pajama bottoms, which I can always use. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Baltimore Yarn Crawl

2006-11-06T15:53:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone!
Lisa and I did our Stitches East/Baltimore Yarn Crawl on Saturday and had a fabulous time! We found the crowd to be really different at the Stitches East as compared to Stitches Midwest - definitely younger. Also the convention facility was very nice and compared favorably to the Rosemont Convention Center here. It was so easy to get there - we got right on the light rail/MTA there at BWI and were at the convention center about 50 minutes later - not the fastest way to travel, but definitely the least aggravating!

So of course I couldn't take any pics inside the market - but here's what I scored!

Brooks Farm mohair

Tess Designer Yarn "Silk and Ivory" yarn - this is SO SOFT - also saw the original "Tess", the owner's 19 year old daughter who was there working at the booth with her boyfriend and was very cute and knowledgeable about the family business.

Some Tess 100% silk undyed yarn - about 650 yards - should make a cute summer top

Lana Knits Hemp for Knitting - and tons of patterns not shown here - this hemp yarn is for a BEAUTIFUL pattern that is coming out in Knitty in the next issue according to the owner

Also bought some more knitting greeting cards and a 2007 wall calendar from Pearl's KnitWits - the great mom and daughter team that I met at Stitches Midwest. Also three more pairs of Lantern Moon circulars in the ebony (sizes 4, 5, and 6 - they really need to make ones that are even smaller!)

After shopping til we dropped (about 3 hours straight), we went across the street for some Maryland crab cakes and beer. We had a crab and cheese pretzel roll, these "crab balls" and split a crab cake sandwich. Tasted great with the Blue Moon Belgian ale...

And then another at BWI...are you seeing the theme here???

It was a really fun day and Lisa and I are actually considering skipping Stitches Midwest next year and just traveling to Stitches East as we had such a great time!

Today's Sweater

2006-11-03T09:57:00.000-06:00

Today's sweater is Zara in Big Wool, from Rowan's Bigger Picture book. They show it in a cream color and I made it in "Pistachio" Big Wool. I really like the color, and it is really really warm. Is it the most flattering sweater ever knit? Probably not. But it looks better IRL than in this picture, which was taken with my cell phone's camera.

Can't Wait for Stitches East!!

2006-10-31T10:36:00.000-06:00

I have been really bad about updating this lately...it has been really busy with school lately. I finished my online graduate certificate class at UWM and decided to wait to sign up for another one until January. I have three more to go, no big rush though. My marketing class in the MBA program has been really crazy lately...we are almost done with the case report (35 pages, I think we are up to now) and are working on the presentation. Due November 9th - so it'll all be over soon.

Sorry no knitting pics - I finished the first sleeve of Blackberry though and am working on the second now. Haven't worked much on Ariann. Started swatching the dark gray Elann Baby Cashmere for the gloves.

Can't wait for Stitches East - Baltimore baby! Me and Lisa are each bringing an empty duffle bag and our wallets - traveling light to bring back lots of Brooks Farm Fiber and Tess Rare Yarns! Flying out Saturday morning and will be back Saturday night.

Ariann Progress

2006-10-24T21:43:00.000-05:00

I'm really liking this, I made the 1st buttonhole and am half way to the next one. It's going pretty quick but I just haven't been working on it much b/c of everything else going on.

Here's a pic of the whole thing so far:

and yesterday I just got an idea for a pair of really nice dark gray cashmere gloves for a gift.....I think it will look really good. Have to find just the right yarn.

Today's Sweater...

2006-10-22T17:03:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,
It has been a crazy weekend in every sense of the word, so all I can offer is today's sweater....

(from Rowan 38, made it last year with Rowan Ribbon Twist - LOVE IT!)

and my almost-finished 1st sleeve of Blackberry that I worked on last night while catching up on Season 2 of Grey's Anatomy.

I'm taking a break from this paper I'm working on with my team at school - having a nice glass of J.Lohr Cabernet and chilling out. This paper is going really well, my team members are awesome! and I finished the other paper for my other class last Friday, so I am a happy girl. Life is good!

2006-10-19T12:54:00.000-05:00

Another one shamelessly stolen from Bonne Marie’s blog…these memes are evil. Yet I'm strangely addicted to them.

48 Things You Could Care Less About

1. FIRST NAME? Robin

2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope – alternative names considered by my parents were Regina and Veronica – Veronica’s Ok but Regina sounds like V*gina, glad they didn’t name me that. Can’t imagine going through junior high with that little moniker.

3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Hmmm. I think when I watched “Eight Below” when one of the little husky dogs died. Wahhh.

4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Nope. I’ve completely lost the art of penmanship (if I ever had it.) I kinda half print, half write and get scribblier as the page goes on.

5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT? Bobak’s Polish Ham with Spiced Ham –mmm (worked at Sub City in high school and acquired this fetish)

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Definitely! I’m pretty cool to be around.

7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Don’t know if the blog counts…if so, yes. Otherwise, no - definitely no pen and paper writing is going on.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep. My mom was not a believer in doctoral intervention unless absolutely necessary ( you had to be DYING). If I were raising myself, I would have had them taken out as I get a lot of sore throats and I suspect that may be the reason why.

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Oh no. Most definitely not. I can find a lot more exciting things to do that don’t involve risking my life. I plan to live to be 100 (and hopefully have a good chance as my great grandmother did.)

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Corn Chex and Wheaties mixed together with skim milk

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Nope (what kind of wacked out question is this – who cares??)

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Definitely. I’m lucky enough not to have to do too much strength training to keep up my muscle tone (at least up to this point) so this is a good thing. Actually if I do it even a little too much I build muscle crazy quick (especially those quadricep muscles) so I’ve limited it.

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Chocolate-chocolate chip.

14. SHOE SIZE? 6 1/2 or 7.

5. RED OR PINK? Red

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Probably my hips. Who really likes those?

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My friend Sandy, as she seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth.

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Sure, if they want to.

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Well, I’m wearing a skirt, so I’ve substituted that for pants. Multicolor green/brown, chocolate brown, chocolate brown.

20. LAST THING YOU ATE? grilled chicken salad

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Myself thinking

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Mocha

23. FAVORITE SMELL? My favorite perfume: Pure or Armani Mania for men – like the women’s too but the men’s is delish

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My husband Jim

25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? I guess I’d say eyes, but it’s the whole picture for me.

26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON you stole THIS from? Definitely! Bonne Marie’s the best. We want more patterns!!!

27. FAVORITE DRINK? Depends on the day – Cosmopolitan or a buttery Chardonnay

28. FAVORITE SPORT? Golf

29. EYE COLOR? Greenish hazel

30. HAT SIZE? ?????????

31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, usually every day, but glasses some days.

32. FAVORITE FOOD? Sushi, especially anything with salmon in it.

33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Scary Movies

35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer

36. HUGS OR KISSES? Depends on who it is

37. FAVORITE DESSERT? chocolate cake with chocolate sauce inside and out and vanilla ice cream

38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ?????????

39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ????????

40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Just finished Paranoia by Joseph Finder, about to start Tough Choices by Carly Fiorina

41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE Pad? A Frank Lloyd Wright stained glass design that I got at the museum in Phoenix, Arizona

42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? Grey’s Anatomy Season 2, episode 15

43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Surf/waves crashing on the beach, my cats purring

44. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Stones

45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? Europe

46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Knitting, and it took me 33 years to figure it out.

47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Evergreen Park, Illinois at Little Company of Mary Hospital

48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Stolen from Bonne Marie’s blog..

Update on Blackberry and Ariann

2006-10-17T19:04:00.000-05:00

The first thing I want to say is Thanks! to my Secret Pal, "B" as she sent me a very nice card. I think she may be into scrapbooking/stamping, as the card looks handmade - very nice!

And although I haven't accomplished much, here's some progress pics of Blackberry (left and right front, back - pre-picking up the sides of the left and right front)

And the first sleeve in progress (ignore the bottom part of the pic, that is the top half of the other photo) - I like the cables and bobbles so far!

And Ariann...hard to really show properly, but I'm almost done with the decreases on the body and will be starting the increases soon.

It's been really crazy lately so just about all I can do is work on my papers, try to knit whenever I can and blog even less. I can't wait until the end of the day on Tuesday, when I will at least be done with one of my two classes!

My Favorites

2006-10-15T15:59:00.000-05:00

I haven't gotten a lot of knitting accomplished this weekend, as yesterday's golf outing/dinner/cocktails at my co-worker's house ended up being crazy and today am feeling the after-effects!

Here's the list of answers to the "my favorites" meme for the SP9 contest being sponsored by Shelby...as I have nothing to show for myself with knitting.

My Favorites

Actor: Serious - Edward Norton Eye Candy - Johnny Depp

Actress: Kate Winslet

Animal: Cat

Band: this is so hard to choose - maybe Pete Yorn

Book: Memoirs of a Geisha (NOT the movie though)

Bubblebath: lemon

Candy: Reese's Peanut Butter Cups or Milk Chocolate Godiva

Color: dark plum/aubergine

Drink: a buttery Chardonnay or a less-oaky Cabernet

Flower: tulips

Food: sushi

Lip balm: Prescriptives gloss

Lotion: Hemp from Sally Beauty Supply!

Movie: Office Space

Place: Anacapri

Song: In Your Eyes by Peter Gabriel (so predictable)

TV Show: Grey's Anatomy

Yarn: Anything made by Brooks Farm or Tess Designer Yarns

Vacation Spot: St. Bart's or Blankenberge, Belgium

Sewing Expo Tomorrow

2006-10-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

I'm going to the Quilting and Sewing Expo tomorrow - going to take some classes, including serging as I've never done it but am thinking of buying a serger. I've been wanting to get more into sewing but need some help. Then maybe I can use the Garment Designer I purchased at Stitches Midwest!

Oh yeah, and this is the view out my office window right now. Look at the crazy SNOW! It's October 12th people!

Blackberry In Process

2006-10-11T06:35:00.000-05:00

I cast on for Blackberry yesterday and got all of this done in a 90 minute webcast! I guess listening to people drone on about new accounting pronouncements is good for something...I know it's probably hard to discern just exactly what you're looking at here, but this is the back just past the armholes, in reverse stockinette stitch.

But check this out - I like the stockinette stitch side better. I don't think it will show up the cables as nicely though.

I like this colorway - "Corinthian" in Rowan Chunky Print - and I have a skirt and a long sleeve layering type shirt in that red/rust color, so I have my outfit all planned!

Oh, and Lisa and I booked our yarn p*rn flight to Baltimore for the Stitches East market on 11/4 last night. We're definitely going now!

New Pattern Frenzy!

2006-10-10T11:14:00.000-05:00

Again, I'm all excited about some patterns that I've seen recently. I am still going to cast on for Ariann, but am trying to get some UFOs done first. Last night I finished the last 40 rows of knitting on the baby sweater and will be sewing that, and I'm thinking that on the fair isle cardigan steeking project, that will maybe be next year's project for McKenna instead of this year's. I'm kind of burned out on gift knitting for now, so am thinking about making her something from my gray Big Wool Fusion instead - quick and easy.

But back to the new patterns I want to do. I saw a great sweater on Lara's blog made with Rowan Soft Tweed, a Knitty pattern called Blackberry that I have the chunky print for already (in this great yellow/red/cream colorway called Corinthian) and a sweater in Fall 05 Interweave Knits with K1C2 Temptation - done in the round, chunky yarn, easy cables. I think it is called the Cascade Indulgence pullover. I ordered a ball of the Soft Tweed, and two different colors of the K1C2 Temptation from yarnmarket.com to swatch with as I didn't have anything suitable in my stash (LOL.)

Jim and I decided to skip the MBA trip - he really wasn't so enthused about going, and he didn't want me going by myself to Europe (he is weird about some things like that.) He probably would have went if I twisted his arm, but I don't want to drag him if he really doesn't want to go. So big deal - I'll be 36 when I finish the MBA whether I finish 6 months early or not - and it's not like there's a race or anything.

Weekend Recap

2006-10-08T21:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I almost finished the Debbie Bliss Ribbon Tied Jacket this weekend, so I got a lot more knitting in than I thought I would while catching up on Season 2 of Grey's Anatomy today. I have about 40 more rows to go but they only have 34 stitches each, so it should go quickly. (I don't believe my friend Susan - the recipient of this gift, for her new baby boy- has too much time to check out my blog, with a new baby and a daughter who just turned two, so it'll still be a surprise.)

Golf - did horribly - it's amazing how much just practicing once a week does (which I hadn't done for the past two weeks after I finished my eight initial lessons.) I'm glad that I'm going to be playing again as part of an outing next week and am doing a playing lesson with the golf pro the week after and an all day clinic with five other women the week after that. Once I get back into it, I'll start going to one of those indoor dome places and practice through the winter, because otherwise I'm going to lose everything I learned.

Papers - mmm. Accomplished a lot on one, not so much on the other. I'll have to work on that one during this week.

Got my Secret Pal assignment - heard from mine (she sounds very nice!) and replied to her, and sent out an email to the person I'm assigned to "spoil". I'm excited - I've come up with a list already of potential gifts for my "spoilee" and will be scouting out places to get them in the next few weeks. This will be fun!

Got my Handspun from Julie!

2006-10-07T07:06:00.000-05:00

Just look at this - it's beautiful! This was what I got when I gave Julie $40 for her wheel fund - she was giving 50g of handspun for each $10 donated. She ordered her wheel pretty quickly, as a lot of people thought this was a great idea and donated. I think she should do this as a side business, but I'm sure it is a lot of work. I'm especially impressed by the fact that she spun this by hand on a drop spindle - I know I could never do that - plus it is amazingly professional looking, like something I would buy at a yarn shop.

I think she gave me the lighter lavender as some kind of "bonus" too as the tag on one of the two others says 200g - approx 330 yards, and that it is 70% navajo churro and 30% mohair. I never heard of navajo churro but the yarn is a very nice texture, and that's more yardage than I expected for sure! Thanks Julie!!!

It's not going to be a happy knitting weekend, unfortunately, as I have two big papers for my classes that I need to work on (that are due in a few weeks) and Jim and I are playing 9 holes of golf this afternoon with one of my co-workers and her husband. I'm looking forward to the golf, the papers - not so much (reminds me of that meme a while back asking what else you were procrastinating about while knitting) so that all adds up to no finished objects this weekend. BLAH!

In other news, I may be going on the MBA trip to Germany and Austria in May. I only have four more classes, two of which are electives, and this would be a nice way to get one of the electives done to finish in May 2008 instead of December 2008. (Yeah, I've only been taking one class at a time in Fall and Spring - what I refer to as the "slacker plan".)

If I went crazy and took two classes at a time, which is a little hard to do this term b/c I'm taking the online class for the graduate certificate at another university, then I could finish a lot sooner, but I already have one master's degree (in tax) so I really don't need to drive myself insane to get this one done. When I was doing the first one, I really wanted to get done quickly as there were immediate promotion/pay increases I saw on the horizon, but this one is really more of something I wanted for myself and my own experience.

So it's not really the "finishing sooner" that's motivating me (although that is a nice perk) but the trip itself. The only part of Germany Jim and I have been to is Hamburg, as one stop on one of our cruises a few years ago. We usually like cruising for our vacations so we would be unlikely to put together a land tour like the one they are offering, plus my last two companies have been associated with the auto industry in one way or another and Germany is an excellent place for me to go from that standpoint. So, I think I'm going to go, and Jim may come along too, depending on if they have space for spouses at the end of the day.

V Neck Raglan and Crazy Wool-Venture

2006-10-06T06:03:00.000-05:00

Here's a pic of my V-neck raglan in process - I just joined the neck and will be working straight, then doing the ribbing. I put it on waste yarn and tried it on and it fit great. I'm getting more used to this "putting project on waste yarn" thing and have learned the tricks to avoiding losing any stitches in the process, so top-down is definitely my favorite way to knit a sweater now.

So yesterday was so successful with the de-stashing that I started thinking about getting more of the yarns I do want - like Brooks Farm and Tess - then started thinking about the only real place to get those with a huge selection (that I know of): the STITCHES market! Then looked at the Knitter's site to see when Stitches East was, and saw that it is on a weekend that I could actually go. Then I told my friend Lisa about it and she was saying that the Brooks Farm web site didn't have a good selection of yarns and she wanted to pick up some Riata of her own, after seeing the reds and the swatch I did for Ariann and liking it.

Soo.... this is how I came to decide to fly to Baltimore for one day on a Saturday morning, buy yarn, and come back that evening. Umm, this is a whole new level of yarn addiction, right, if I'm getting on one-day flights to shop for it???

Destashing

2006-10-05T09:27:00.000-05:00

Well, now that I made an inventory list of all of my "wool", I decided there's a lot of it I'm not going to use (or I want other kinds more, let's put it that way.) So I got up early today before work and took a bunch of pics of it and posted to the destashing blog. The last time I did this, I didn't have a lot of response, but I priced it to sell this time and put a lot more stuff out there. Otherwise, I was going to have to go buy more plastic containers from the Container Store, and they've already gotten about $500 of my money on wool organization tools!

And, I also got my Lia Sophia jewelry order in yesterday - I LOVE these necklaces - check these out!

Not much else to report, I got to the bottom of the V neck on the easy V neck raglan (I only had to knit 33 rows to get there with the Bunny Print!) and will have pics soon.

New Quick-Knit on the Needles

2006-10-04T11:48:00.000-05:00

Well, I enjoyed the construction of the SKB so much that I decided to try another Glampyre Knits pattern, the Easy V Neck Raglan. I had some Tahki Bunny Print in my stash and I felt like doing something on size 9s or 10s, so here it is. I started it last night and almost got through an entire ball of yarn (out of 10 that it will take) so I think this will be a 2 week-er.

Done with CeCe!!

2006-10-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

After a weekend of truly obsessive knitting, I'm done with CeCe!

I really liked this pattern and I love the fit. I made the 34" size in Rowan Calmer (sorry, too lazy to look up the shade number but it is obviously like a corally-red), size 6 addis, using Magic Loop for the sleeves. I liked doing the neckband from holders and then sewing it - that and sewing the armhole seams was IT as far as finishing. Just the way I like it! Thanks, Bonne Marie, for an excellent pattern!

Quick Picture-Less Blog Entry

2006-10-02T13:19:00.000-05:00

I got a call from Wool & Company saying that the Plymouth Cashmere yarn is on backorder and would take 6-8 weeks, so they were giving me the option of going through with the order or not. I decided not to, as I didn't want to wait - plus it was kind of an impulse buy and the last thing I need is more yarn. I will eventually knit the Glasgow Lace pullover, but I almost finished CeCe over the weekend and decided I did enough lace for awhile.

The other thing that I did over the weekend (besides obsessive knitting on CeCe) was that I discovered Grey's Anatomy. Yeah, I'm always a little behind on the pop culture things, especially TV shows. I rented the first season on Netflix and sat down and watched the whole thing and LOVED it. I had remembered seeing a few episodes here and there and didn't have the whole backstory at the time so didn't really get into it. But now that I started at the beginning, I am addicted. I should have known I would be, as I went back and watched all the ER episodes from the beginning and loved those too. So now I have to frantically catch up (watch Season 2) so I can start watching Season 3.

SP9 Questionnaire

2006-10-01T21:21:00.000-05:00

They just posted the SP9 questionnaire so I thought I would get it out of the way now before the 10/15 deadline! (I love these things - they are so much fun!)

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

It's got to be soft. Soft wool or wool blended with alpaca, mohair, and/or cashmere are my favorite. I've been wanting to try angora, as I haven't worked with that yet.

I really dislike cotton, unless it's mixed with wool or something else that makes it easier to work with (Rowan Calmer is a blend I do like - not sure of its exact composition.) I actually don't really like 100% silk either to knit with. I like wearing it in clothes that I purchase but not knitting with it as it is too slippery and has a lot of the same properties of cotton that I dislike. I'm also not a big fan of acrylic or "fun fur".

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

The Circular Solution for the needles and a box with dividers for the crochet hooks. I'm all good there.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I've been knitting since January 2005 but have done a lot of projects - I'd say I'm definitely at least at the intermediate level.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Yes - it's located here.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)

Clean, outdoorsy/ocean or lemon-y scents. I like Fresh Lemon Sugar, Jil Sander Pure, and Banana Republic's Beach House scents - along those lines.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I love chocolate, especially milk chocolate. I like Godiva truffles (especially the key lime truffles) and Dove dark chocolate pieces. Twix and Reese's Peanut Butter cups are tasty too. I like the miniature ones, less commitment on each snack.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?

Crochet, although I haven't really taken off with it yet. I like making wire wrapped jewelry, but again, haven't done much of it. I don't spin and don't really have any interest in that - just the end results!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

90s music, especially early/mid 90s (college, post college tunes for me.) I also like classical music. Yes, I'm a huge ITunes and iPod addict. I also like audiobooks and buy them on audible.com or ITunes.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?

I'd have to say I don't really like pastels, especially baby blue and pink. I like both earth tones and vibrant colors though. I really like reddish-orange, green and dark plum.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I've been married for four great years to my husband, Jim. We have two cats, Gilda and FatKat, who are both twelve years old, and a tank full of freshwater fish.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

Not so much. Surprisingly, I do like fingerless gloves, like the Fetching ones I made earlier this year.

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

Sweaters.

13. What are you knitting right now?

Eeek. What am I NOT knitting right now? My blog is the best source to stay current on this, as I have about 9 unfinished projects (a record low for me!) and a number of them are actually soon to be finished. I should be done with Christmas gifts by the end of November, but I always have at least one sweater on the needles for me as well.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Mmmm, that's a tough one. It really depends. I would have to say no to be safe.

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

Usually Circular Addi Turbos only - but Circular Lantern Moons would be a real treat. I've discovered Magic Loop recently so long circulars would be great.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Yes and yes.

17. How old is your oldest UFO?

About a year old.

18. What is your favorite holiday?

Hmm, another interesting one. I would say maybe Memorial Day because of the promise of the upcoming long summer ahead? I'm not a big holiday person.

19. Is there anything that you collect?

Rowan Magazines - I have a good number of them but am missing a lot of the early ones.

I have everything in the 30s and I have the latest #40. In the 20s, I have 22, 23 and 27 but would love any of the others. In the teens, I have 13, 15, 16, and 18.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Not particularly. The Amazon wish list would show the books I'm looking for. Needles - Lantern Moon 24 - 29 " Circulars, size 5 or 6. I have an Interweave Knits subscription and I really only like that one - if there is a way to get a Rebecca subscription via mail I'd love that, but I don't know if that's available. An Interweave Crochet subscription would also be of interest....

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

Intarsia, but I'm taking a class on that on November 4th. I already know fair isle, entrelac, cables, magic loop, knitting on 2 circulars...am working on my first steeking project. I'd eventually like to investigate the purchase of a knitting machine and maybe buy one in the spring - for light gauge yarns. I'd love a resource that would help me compare the ones that are out there, as I'd like to invest in a good one but don't know what the good ones are yet.

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

I'm not yet a sock knitter, but I'm taking a class to learn how to do them on Magic Loop next month. I haven't measured my feet but I wear US size 6 1/2 or 7 shoes.

23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)

February 19, 1972

Fall 2006 Interweave Knits Trunk Show

2006-09-30T17:09:00.000-05:00

Well, I went to Wool and Company for the Interweave Knits trunk show, against my better judgment. I'm just lucky I didn't walk out of there with yarn for two projects instead of just one. Of course the one I bought yarn for is the cashmere one.

I was able to try on the Equinox Yoke pullover and I saw the Breton Jacket and Coral Crossing and the Portland Pullover and even the Annie Modesitt skirt, but when I tried on the Glasgow Lace pullover, I was sold. OK, I tried this on in the 33 1/2" size, which I would be unsure about if I were selecting a size, as my actual measurements are about an inch larger than that. But it fit PERFECTLY. So, I am the proud purchaser of five skeins of Plymouth Royal Cashmere yarn (had to be ordered, of course I'm a geek and had to have the color shown in the magazine, that I tried on.) And let me tell you - I know this sounds arrogant as hell - but that sweater looks WAY better on me than on the ubiquitous "red-haired girl" of IK. I think it must have been too big on her or something - on me it looked perfect though. This sweater needs a little bit of negative ease.

I definitely think that the sample of the fair isle Equinox Yoke pullover on the cover was not the smallest size, but the second to the smallest. Doesn't the trunk show consist of whatever sizes they photographed on the model (as I doubt they have more than one sample, but maybe I'm wrong?) I was wondering why this pullover was too big on me around the neck and shoulders (going down past my shoulders and bagging up around the chest) but now I see that the size shown on the model for that one was the 38" one. Telling me that again, a lot of (positive) ease is not my friend and I should knit the 34" if I decide to go for this one later.

Chic Knits Ariann - Up Next!

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

I love Bonne Marie's new pattern, "Ariann" - and she just set up a KAL for it (my new favorite way to work on projects!) As it is made in one piece with no finishing, I am SO in. I'm thinking of making this with my Brooks Farm Riata that I bought at Stitches this year. I'm all about the Brooks Farm yarns, and I thought this pattern would look good in a solid color, which I don't have much of. Except for these LOVELY, LUSH reds. Mmm, aren't they tasty?

SKB - Done!!!

2006-09-29T08:29:00.000-05:00

Yay! I'm so excited to have finished this - it was a fun process and didn't take that long. I started 9/1 with the KAL but worked on other projects too - still, finishing it (really finishing it, with ends weaved in, etc.) in a month and wearing it (and liking what it looks like) has to be a first for me. Maybe I would make another one in silk as I'm sure it would look totally different, but there's so many other patterns I want to make that I doubt I will actually do that.

Also, this was my first KAL that I started on the official day, posted comments as I went along with progress pics, got support from the other group members when a few things went wrong - and I really liked that part of the experience. I don't think I would have finished it as quickly if I wasn't doing it as part of the KAL. It was a great experience and I'd definitely do it again.

Yay...

Noro Klaralund

2006-09-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hmm, more of a dress on me than a sweater. All the bad knits from last year are getting finished now. This one might be a good repurpose project, as I think I can probably find something to make out of like nine skeins of Noro Silk Garden....

This thing is truly freakish in its construction. I swear the thing was measuring normally when I was going along!! I am truly confused about what I am supposed to do with the back of it as the instructions do not make a lot of sense....You'd have to see the pattern to know what I mean. Has anyone made this and had it come out normal?

Klaralund Followup, SKB Progress, Teva Long Sleeved Ballet T

2006-09-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone for their comments on the Klaralund - after looking at it again, I see what I did wrong. I sewed half of the sleeve to the half of the body, but I didn't sew the right half (and was wondering why I was having so much trouble getting them to even out (i.e., I had more sleeve than body so was easing in a lot of sleeve!) I will undo the seams this weekend and redo, and show you the revised version next week.

Also, last night I finished the neck of the SKB. I just have to weave in all the ends and sew the overlapping ends of the V together and block it, but I still plan to wear it tomorrow. I'll have Jim take a picture once I have it on for the full effect.

And here's another question for you all - Yay or nay on this one?

Should I kill it or finish the sleeves? This is one of those Teva patterns where you have no reasonable idea at the outset how big (or small) the thing will actually be at the end b/c they are intended to stretch to fit. However, this one (in my opinion) could be a little bit bigger. Could be a good sexy knit for summer though. Opinions? (Note that I will NEVER work with this yarn again - Plymouth Napa - has a bit of an acrylic-y plastic smell if that makes sense - and it is worked double, so if I rip it, the yarn has to go in the garbage and cannot be repurposed as it will be a hopelessly tangled mess.)

Also note that what seems to be a spot on my left boob is really the camera cap hanging off the camera. Yeah, not so much of an expert at self-picture taking.

Today's (Really Last Friday's) Sweater

2006-09-26T07:46:00.000-05:00

This little lovely is made from Colinette Shimmer 5 in the Zebra colorway. OK, true confession time - this is the one me and Sandy swapped. She made this one and didn't like its (lack of) length, and I made the Rowan Plaid Flood sweater and didn't like it's bagginess. She likes stuff that's oversized whereas I like everything fitted - so it works out! Now I have a better sense of what (not) to knit.

Thanks to Jeanie of UFO August!

2006-09-25T19:20:00.000-05:00

Got my prize for UFO August - this beautiful sock yarn from Hill Country Yarns. Thanks again, Jeanie!

Oh, and I'm in LOVE with a new (to me) yarn. Elsebeth Lavold Chunky AL. It is on sale right now on WEBS and I had previously bought a ball from them to swatch with but hadn't gotten to it until now. Did I say I LOVE this yarn? (Hmm, I'm understanding how I have 57 projects - found a few more - in my yarn closet.)

Just look at this beauty...and it is SOOOO soft! (Love the Lantern Moon circulars too in Rosewood...) Somebody stop me from buying like 20 balls of this!

SKB - Done with Sleeves

2006-09-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here she is!

Still have to do the neck pickups and more blasted purl ridges...here's my post on the SKB KAL.

Weekend Purchases

2006-09-24T17:23:00.000-05:00

Ok, I went a little crazy with book purchases at Knitche, my LYS. But it's essential to use up my stash, right?

And, to add insult to injury, I bought some closed-out 40% off Rowan Chunky Print in a colorway I already had one ball of for swatching. I should be able to make a cute little shrug or something out of 5 balls, right? Now we're up to 55 projects in the stash. But who's counting?

Updated Stash List

2006-09-23T16:15:00.000-05:00

I've gotten a lot done in the past few days but still need to take pictures of everything. However, I was talking with my friend Lisa last week when we went out for sushi and she didn't believe I had yarn in my stash for about 50 projects.

So, I got a wild hair this afternoon to go look through the stash to see how close I was with my estimate, and yeah, I was pretty darn close. 54, as a matter of fact! I looked the list over and I don't think I have any duplications, but I might. But I'm still right around the 50 mark no matter how you slice it. I

1. Tahki Bunny Print blue/green variegated for drop stitch zip-front sweater
2. Tahki Bunny Print orange/brown variegated
3. Stacy Charles Victoria copper/brown/cream (10?)
4. 7 coral Tahki Cotton Classic
5. 8 bright lime green Tahki Cotton Classic
6. 6 Rowan recycled chunky brown variegated - Sally Melville skirt?
7. 3 green tahki donegal tweed
8. 10 Elsebeth Lavold sedona red Silky Wool
9. EL flax-colored silky wool (7 or 8 skeins?)
10. EL olive green silky wool (7 or 8 skeins?)
11. SW Trading Co green bamboo for tank
12. 3 sk Giotto - Katy Ryan tunic in Interweave Knits Spring 2006
13. sushi wallet felting kit
14. 3 pomegranate tartelette
15. 7 green/brown kimono angora/ 2 kimono ribbon - Louisa Harding v neck sweater with ribbon edging
16. 8 gray jaeger mohair art
17. Soho green/brown
18. 4 Cotton Braid "Cezanne" for tank top + one extra (may use for purse?) sell?
19. 10 blush linen print, 1 peachy, 1 refresher for lace top - sell?
20. louisa harding seafoam green dk for ???
21. gray/white big wool fusion -now with Sandy's skein, have enough for baby sweater, or could make Peg a capelet
22. green/gray Noro Kureyon - Noah's sweater
23. pink All Seasons Cotton (5?)
24. yellow All Seasons Cotton (5?)
25. Noro Kochoran (7 or 8?)
26. one skein Brooks Farm Harmony (500 yards)
27. blue/gray Biggy Print – 10?
28. colinette prism - reddish peach (7?)
29. colinette giotto - blue/green (3?)
30. colinette giotto - copper (3?)
31. white cotton tape (10)
32. white Jaeger Trinity (3)
33. peach Brown Sheep cotton fleece for Melissa Leapman lace tunic (10?)
34. lime green and purple accent Brown Sheep bulky for cabled Melissa Leapman sweater (8?)
35. 9 Karabella Aurora melange – black/white
36. 3 lilac Brown Sheep cotton fleece
37. 2 light green (lime) Rowan Handknit Cotton for bag
38. 2 pearl Kid Silk Haze – scarf
39. 2 cream Calmer – tank top
40. 1 skein Quiviut - scarf
41. 12? Skeins Rowan Cork – yellow/orange “gleam”
42. burly spun black/orange for Jim’s Harley sweater
43. 2 sk fuschia Rowan Cork – another baby sweater?
44. 3 Rowan cashsoft dk (red) – tank top
45. 4 Plymouth Athena (shawl or scarf from Exquisite Little Knits)
46. 5 Kid Classic “juicy” (red/orange)
47. 3 ½ brown Rowan Cork
48. 1 black Kidsilk Haze (scarf from Exquisite little knits?0
49. 10 lime green bulky Alpaca
50. Brooks Farm primero rose/green (mohair – dk weight)
51. Tess Designer Yarns superwash merino in a coppery/red-brown/chocolate colorway
52. Brooks Farm Riata - 4 skeins purple/hot pink/fuschia
53. Brooks Farm Riata – reds
54. Tess Designer Yarns copper ribbon

More SKB Pics - 1st 3/4 Length Sleeve Done

2006-09-20T21:13:00.000-05:00

Any comments?

Debbie Bliss Ribbon Tied Jacket in Progress

2006-09-20T19:31:00.000-05:00

I cast on Monday night for the Debbie Bliss Ribbon Tied Jacket I'll be making for my friend Susan's new baby, Alex....

And here it is in its knitted in one piece, garter stitch glory - almost to the armholes. I haven't knitted anything in all garter stitch in a LONG time but it's turning out well so far. I like working with the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran - I had been looking for an opportunity to work with it again after I worked with it for the first time on my Fetching fingerless gloves.

And all the while the SKB is looking at me from across the room, taunting me with its almost 3/4 sleeve. I actually do feel like working on it now so I may have some progress to show soon. The above is webcast knitting anyway (to do during continuing education broadcasts over the internet) - nice and mindless so I can multitask and absorb new tax law developments while I work on it!

A Woolly Mammoth and SKB Progress

2006-09-17T15:04:00.000-05:00

I worked on one of my UFOs, the Jaeger Natural Fleece "Zennor" sweater from JB36 and I am not so pleased to report that it is officially a woolly mammoth.

Last year when I made the pieces of this, I wasn't yet savvy enough to read the finished measurements and think about whether they would work on my body. Hmmm. I knitted this thing to gauge, and made the 36" size, but the finished measurement is 40" (which it does so measure.) Never mind the fact that now, in my quasi-right mind, would NEVER have made something that involved fur, even non-fun fur, of any color. Yep, I don't think this one's leaving the house.

It was supposed to look like the picture below, which I think it does except for the sleeves, which I sewed together post-assembly to control the flappy sleeve problem.

I mean, i did reknit these sleeves already and shortened them, but the open flaps of the sleeves when originally knit were almost to my elbows!!!! Basically chalk it up to something made for someone who's 6'0" (but the body is freakishly short - I didn't alter that, that is following the pattern.) It is 100% wool, so maybe it could be shrunk (felted) in the washing machine. But then you'd lose the uneven, thick and thin "natural" fleece texture of the wool. My husband went as far as to suggest wool repurposing but I figured I got this far, might as well keep it in one piece now.

SKB progress - am thinking of leaving these sleeves 3/4 length. Noooo, not out of laziness - just because I like 3/4 length sleeves. But I'm not totally sure yet - thoughts are appreciated. I figured I'd do the other side to the same length and then decide. I decided also not to do any more increases as I think these are flared enough as is.

Kitty Pics and Shimmer 5 Sweater Progress

2006-09-15T20:45:00.000-05:00

I think I disproportionately show pictures of Gilda, my other kitty, on my blog, so today I thought I'd show FatKat (husband named her, I know, it's non-PC.) Here she is posing with the Shimmer 5 and a little bit of the Brooks Farm Harmony right behind her head - see how her eyes match the yarn?!

And here she is with her startled look - she is an easily startled kitty and freaks out from any little noise, displaying this look.

Here's some progress on my Shimmer 5 sweater - it is "Jessica" from the Colinette Wayfarer book, described as "ribbed sweater with deep V-neck." It is a piece of cake - k5p5 ribbing which I converted to do in the round with no shaping - straight to the armholes. Yes, it will be kind of a tent. But Colinette Point 5 or Shimmer 5 is kind of made for big loose warm comfy sweaters - you can't exactly make something tight or sexy with it per se. I already have a cardigan made with another color of Shimmer 5 (the Zebra colorway) so I figured I would make this with my 8 skeins I got on sale at My Sister's Knits. I'm so excited to actually begin to work through my stash!

Just Look at Those Colors...

2006-09-15T06:46:00.000-05:00

My Colinette Shimmer 5 in Turquoise. I was wrong on two counts before on the yarn name (it's Shimmer 5, not Point 5 - which makes it that much lovelier) and I also mistakenly called it the "Jay" colorway and winding another ball of it this morning, I noticed it is actually "Turquoise". Which is what it looked like anyway but I had tried to look at Colinette's web site to tell what color it was rather than getting my lazy *ss up to look in the plastic case where I have that yarn stored. Yep, that's pretty lazy.

I haven't gotten a lot of time to knit in the last day as I started my new MBA course (Marketing) and the online sales and use tax class is in full swing now. I got a good group last night for my Marketing class, which eases my mind as 50% of the grade is group work. You always fear getting stuck with a bunch of duds, but these guys are cool and seem to have a lot of energy.

I have a "liquid lunch" this afternoon with two of my favorite co-workers, as we are still on summer hours until the end of September so our office closes at 12:30. Also have a golf lesson tomorrow morning at 6:30 am for more work on the fairway woods and driver - I'm doing really well with the irons and with my short game (pitching, chipping, putting) but have a hard time managing those crazy woods. Saturday night Jim and I will probably try some new restaurant, and Sunday night I'm trying a new (to me) sushi place with Sandy that was highly recommended by one of my other co-workers. Other than that, it's all about knitting. I'm hoping maybe I can finish the SKB. But if I don't, no biggie.

SKB Sleeve Progress...

2006-09-14T12:57:00.000-05:00

Here's what I posted on the SKB Knitalong - too lazy to duplicate...

Infidelity!!!

2006-09-13T21:15:00.000-05:00

Yeah, it's just wool-related. It tempted me with its charms of immediate gratification and Caribbean-like hue and I was too weak to resist. I did work on the SKB first sleeve for a while, then got to the lace and needed a rest again. I started thinking about simpler times, when I knitted with size 15 needles and yarn that got 2 stitches to the inch. Aaah. Life was simpler then. And the rest is history - I yielded to temptation and cast on.

My 10 Names Meme

2006-09-13T05:55:00.000-05:00

From Lorinda's blog...I thanked her for the "blog fodder" as my knitting life is all about the SKB lately. Of which I finished the body late Monday night and am about to start picking up the sleeves. Do I have pictures? No. Bad blogger! If I can whine out an excuse...it's haaaard being in a knitalong for something, practicing "project monogamy" and then finding anything original (well, let's just say interesting and knitting related) to say on your blog. Waaah.

So here I am with the memes again.

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: ( pet and current street name)
Gilda Downers

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother on your moms side, your favorite candy)
Alice Godiva

3. YOUR "FLY Guy/Girl" NAME: (first initial of last name, first three letters of your middle name)
R. Eli

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
Green Tiger

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)Elizabeth Evergreen (Park)

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name, first 2 letters of mom's maiden name and first 3 letters of the town you grew up in.)
This one is whacked - Mar-ro-so-oak

7. SUPERHERO NAME: ("The", your favorite color, favorite drink)
The Green Chardonnay (sounds more like a fungus)

8. NASCAR NAME: (the first name of both your grandfathers)
This one's good - Jesse Harold.

9. FUTURISTIC NAME: ( the name of your favorite perfume/cologne and the name of your favorite shoes)
Pure Coach

10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother/father's middle name )another good one - Jean Joseph

Love, Love, Love the SKB!

2006-09-10T15:34:00.000-05:00

My Simple Knitted Bodice is coming out great - I tried it on before the final purl ridges at the bottom (which will stop it from curling, which is what I'm trying to prevent by holding it down) and it fits really well. I posted one pic on the SKB KAL but here are some more, including one of my cat, Gilda, trying to walk on it. Her coloring is almost like the sweater!

Next up after the dreaded purl ridges at the bottom...picking up the sleeves and continuing them (they'll be flared and long.)

2 Bad Projects Killed, and Progress Pic of SKB

2006-09-09T14:11:00.000-05:00

Here's my Simple Knitted Bodice - just finished the lace section and have four more rows to go on the purl ridges....yay!

And I killed my Green Gable - a few ppl on the KAL confirmed that yes, it is in fact crooked. I suspected I had messed up the increases way back and must have fixed them on the wrong side, but wasn't going to frog until the split/twisted stitches way down that rapidly turned into a trainwreck. As my friend Patti would say, "I've repurposed the wool." Wool being used there in the generic sense as I know Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece is only 20% wool.

Also killed my MIL's vest - I emailed her first to let her know it just wasn't working out. It is (was) knitting up to the correct finished measurements, as I'd gotten gauge, but those finished measurements are just going to be too crazy on her. She's not a large lady by any stretch and this thing was just going to swim on her. I hadn't gotten too far into it so I just decided to cut my losses.

So RIP GG and Classic Garter Stitch Vest. I may make another GG with the yarn (next year, when I've mustered up the energy to go over that pattern and write in all the stitch counts and draw an actual schematic) but the Karabella Aurora Melange is definitely being repurposed and is back in my stash. Luckily it was only one ball that I worked with so far.

Fall Shoes!

2006-09-08T14:24:00.000-05:00

Just went shopping for new fall shoes (last year all I bought were boots, so I'm good there, but desperately needed actual shoes. Stacy and Clinton from What Not to Wear were haunting me..) I'm sure about all of these....even the two pair in different colors b/c the buckles are a different color (love that)

But am not 100% sure on these. The previous ones would be more work oriented, but the ones below are more just to wear with jeans, or maybe even one of my shorter plaid skirts with a brown background or accent in the plaid. Thoughts?

Knitted Bodice Progress...

2006-09-06T20:36:00.000-05:00

I posted this (much much smaller) on the KAL website, but here's my Knitted Bodice. I'm on the lace section, so then after that I'll have a bunch of knitting down to finish the length, then will be picking up the sleeve stitches and making long sleeves. Yay! This hasn't taken too long at all, yes - I am probably only about 1/3 of the way done, but I only started on Friday - so not bad. Funny what a little "project monogamy" will do....

New KALs and SP9

2006-09-04T09:24:00.000-05:00

I've gotten farther than I thought I would with my new KAL for the Stitch Diva Knitted Bodice although I did hit a speed bump this morning- details here.

I also posted my opening unfinished objects list on the new KAL I joined "Two Steps Forward, One Back".

After much hemming and hawing (is that a word?) I decided to sign up for Secret Pal 9. I really wasn't sure if I wanted to try one of the exchanges b/c I wasn't sure I'd be able to find good stuff for the "pal" I'd be assigned but I started thinking about some of the things I've seen lately at my LYS that are cool and decided to just go for it.

In the SP9 questionnaire, I decided to say that I'm open to a pal from any country or continent (which I hope would mean I would not only be sending items to an international pal, but would also receive things from an international pal?) because I thought it would probably make it more interesting to send and receive items that may not be as available in our respective countries. The shipping is what it is - not that big of a deal really - but I'd guess a lot of people might say that they prefer their own country or continent b/c of the shipping thing - so I'll probably get my wish and get to exchange with some cool people from somewhere outside the U.S. I actually have a decent number of international hits on my blog, so I might get to know one of them better. Hopefully I won't give myself away with my big mouth - that's another concern!

Overall I'm pretty excited about it and can't wait for it to start. I think I am pretty good at shopping (tee hee, lots of practice) and tailoring the items I buy for people to what I think they would like. It will be cool to read someone else's blog and figure out what they might be into, and hopefully be right! Plus I thought it would help to get me into the spirit of the holiday season - which sometimes I really get into and other times I don't due to feeling kind of overexposed to the whole thing, if you know what I mean.

Knitted Bodice and CeCe Progress!

2006-09-02T15:02:00.000-05:00

Started the Stitch Diva Knitted Bodice KAL yesterday and it's coming together nicely - here's the link to my post on that blog....(and the pic I posted over there.)

And, I joined the pieces for CeCe! Just have to knit up for awhile and do the neck and sleeve decreases now.

Here's a closer up pic.

Jim and I are going out to dinner in a little while so I didn't know if I'd get any more progress in before then - and after then - well, let's just say that after some wine, lace is not the best candidate for "drunk knitting." I could probably work on the Knitted Bodice without any issues, but why risk it?

What I Did on My Summer Vacation and Exciting Things to Come!

2006-08-31T08:58:00.000-05:00

Here's my post on the UFO August blog regarding my progress for the month - overall I'm very happy with everything I completed. I am more than ready to move on though. Lots of things that I want to start, but I am going to stick to the "finish 2, start 1" rule that Jeanie (of UFO August) uses as I think that will avoid the backlog.

Yesterday I swatched two of the new Elann newsletter yarns and I like their mohair/wool blend that they're offering on sale in the middle of September, but probably won't buy it.

Here's my new "wish list" of projects to start - some I have to do as they're Christmas gifts and others I just want to do.

I think my new rule for work in process (besides the ones that are currently in process, which are "grandfathered in" in my mind) is going to be that I allow myself to have one project for myself going, one gift project, and one webcast project (mindless knitting for the CPE webcasts I watch at work.) I saw other people's ideas for this and their lists were similar except they added small gift projects or socks to the list. I don't knit socks (yet) so I can't very well have that criteria, and most of my gift projects are sweaters, not anything small like scarves or hats. Ideally, the WIP would include different needle sizes to give my hands a break.

I'm very happy with "what I did on my summer vacation"! I started a blog, lost 7 pounds and kept it off, finished a lot of projects, "met" some great fellow bloggers, took golf lessons and played my first nine holes last Sunday (found out I am great at chipping - now need to get the speed going when teeing off). I look forward to continuing with the lessons/practice indoors this winter, going to my new gym that opened Tuesday of this week, working on my new projects including my very first KAL, starting my new online class that I'm taking this time instead of teaching, starting my new Marketing class in the MBA program and attending the Sewing Expo in St. Charles in October for the first time. Lots of exciting stuff happening.

The Knit-Geek Questionnaire

2006-08-29T08:35:00.000-05:00

Got this one from Kate's blog (which is great by the way - check it out!) You can also get the template there to answer it yourself!

1. What's your worst habit relating to your knitting?

Putting off the finishing and starting too many new projects. I have been trying to do more projects in the round to eliminate/reduce the finishing required and have just joined a new blog “Two Steps Forward, One Back” where we try to finish two projects before casting on for a new one.

2. In what specific ways does your knitting make you a better person?

It makes me calmer and more patient. If I have to wait for something, like getting my car washed or for an appointment at my salon, etc. I always have something to do, which is essential for me.

3. How might you or your life be different if you were suddenly unable to knit?

I think I would be a lot more stressed out and/or I would need to find something to take its place. I’d probably be going to the driving range a lot more to practice golf, and drinking, shopping, eating more.

4. If money were no object, what one yarn, and what one tool or gadget would you run out and buy first?

I know I would buy a knitting machine, but I’m not sure yet what kind as I haven’t allowed myself to research them yet. I am allowing myself to look into this after I get through year end at work next year as a little present to myself. As far as yarns – I’m not sure – I pretty much buy whatever yarns I want right now (herein lies the problem.)

5. What knitting technique or project type are you most afraid of (if any)? What, specifically, do you fear will happen when you try it?

Intarsia. Holes all over, taking too long and three million ends to weave in.

6. Who is/are your knitting hero(es), and why?

I would have to say Stephanie Pearl-McPhee as she has been able to voice many of the things that we often feel or think as knitters and does so in such a funny way.

7. Do you consider knitting, for you personally, a mostly social activity, or a mostly solitary activity?

I would say the actual knitting itself is more solitary for me, as I don’t really like the mindless types of projects that I have to do if I’m trying to talk and knit at the same time. I could never do scarves all the time or sweaters that say “continue in stockinette stitch for 12 inches” as I would be bored stiff. However, it is very social from the standpoint of the online community and knitting blogs/boards – I’ve never felt like I had so many resources to turn to for any other activity!

8. Is there a particular regional tradition in knitting that you feel strongly drawn toward (e.g., Fair Isle, Scandinavian, Celtic, Orenburg lace)? Any theories as to why it calls to you?

Not really. I’m more interested in style and knitting items that fit me well and flatter my shape than focusing on creating “knitting masterpieces” for their own sake.

9. If you were a yarn, which yarn would you be

?????

10. Some statistics:

(a) How many years have passed since you FIRST learned to knit?
1 ¾! Learned in January 2005.

(b) How many total years have you been actively, regularly knitting (i.e., they don't have to have been in a row)?

Again, 1 ¾.

(c) how many people have you taught to knit?

Three.

(d) Roughly what percentage of your FOs do you give away (to anyone besides yourself, i.e., including your immediate family)

Not totally sure I’m interpreting this question right – but about 5% of my knitting is baby gifts for people that aren’t related to me at all. About another 25% is for my husband’s aunt, uncle, mom, dad, cousins and their kids for Christmas. Immediate family would just be my husband, and all he’s gotten so far is a scarf. I haven’t gotten around to any charity knitting yet.

11. How often do you KIP (knit in public)? i.e., once a week, once a month, etc. Where do you do it?

Not often – but when I do it’s in the summertime outside at a beer garden or outdoor restaurant area.

12. If a genie granted you one hour to stitch-n-bitch with any one knitter, living or dead, who would you choose and why?

Probably Stephanie Pearl-McPhee because she seems like such a fun person from the one book signing I attended.

13. What aspect or task in knitting makes you most impatient?

In a word, finishing.

14. What is it about knitting that never lets you get bored with it?

The possibilities….the patterns. Being more of a fashion-oriented knitter, I am strictly someone who falls in love with patterns then finds a yarn (or usually uses the yarn called for to exactly duplicate the results) rather than the other way around.

15. Describe how and where you most often do your knitting - where do you sit, what is going on around you, what tools do you use and how are they (dis)organized?

I’m usually in my knitting room/office – sitting on my round “cuddle lounge” either with or without my cats. Jim is stopping up from time to time to say hi and ask me if I need anything. I’m either watching TV or a movie - or more often listening to an audiobook or music. It’s definitely not the most organized place I’ve ever seen, despite my half-hearted on-off again efforts. Tools – I have a ballwinder and swift, all kinds of row counters for my multiple projects and am usually using addi turbo needles.

16. Which one person is the recipient of more of your knitting than any other?

It’s pretty even among Jim’s family members.

17. What's the oddest thing about your knitting, or yourself as a knitter?

The way I knit – I “throw” the yarn like American style knitting, but I do so with my left hand instead of the right.

18. What do you see yourself knitting - if anything - twenty years from now

???? The sky’s the limit, really.

19. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could have only ONE SKEIN of yarn, which yarn would it be and what would you do with it?

??? Something really soft that I could pet, like angora or silk. Or a huge skein of something sturdy like Cascade Ecological Wool that I could reknit into different things over and over again.

20. If you were allowed to own only one knitting-related book, which would it be? (you'd be free to browse others, but you couldn't keep them)

??? I can’t really say. I like lots of books for different reasons, but there’s not just one book I keep returning to.

21. Is knitting the new yoga? Why or why not?

It is for me – the relaxation and de-stressing aspects remind me a lot of yoga. It can be difficult at times, similar to a difficult yoga pose, but the results are worth it in the end.

22. What important thing are you trying to put off doing whenever you knit?"

Nothing usually.

Louisa Harding Tank - Done

2006-08-27T10:03:00.000-05:00

It looks OK by itself...

But not so great on me.

You can't really tell from this picture, but the back is loose and gappy. I made the Small, but I think I needed to make the Extra Small. Even though the finished tank = the finished measurements of the small, the stretchy fabric just kind of drapes instead of conforming to my body.

I was reading on the Knitty boards that one way to fix this is to work a few rows of crochet on the top, but in this case, the ribbon edging is inelastic so I'm not sure how that would have worked. I could maybe wear it with a shirt under it....or find someone who it fits!

Another Finished Item - Rowan Plaid "Hurricane" Vest

2006-08-26T17:39:00.000-05:00

Another finished item, modeled by my husband Jim....

Wish I could wear things that are that bulky and get away with it!

That's item #7 on the unfinished item log...I'm getting through it!

Margery's Toast, GG is Saved from the Froggie Pond

2006-08-25T20:05:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight I took a look at two of my other projects with a hard eye toward whether I could salvage them or not.

One of them was a casualty - "Margery" in Silky Wool. It was supposed to look like this

but it really looked bad in the light celery green color I picked for it - I had about 1/3 of the front done, so no big deal. I might attempt it again in the medium olivey-green or rust colors of Silky Wool that I have, or maybe in a different yarn altogether. I think that the Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool is nice to work with and has an elegant drape to it, but it looks bad in reverse stockinette in a light color - almost like it looks scratchy or something, even though it's not. So that one has been ripped out after a few Corona Lights.

The Green Gable that I started last month, on the other hand, is salvageable and I actually don't even think it needs any fixing. I joined the Green Gable Knitalong a few weeks ago, hearing about how so many people had problems with the sizing, and mine looked really big on the needles so I thought I had the same problem. Surprise! I put it on waste yarn and I think it's actually OK. I wrote about it here

but here's a picture of it. I think it looks OK, except for the fact that I think I put it on a little crooked. Excuse the way I look - that's what I look like when I'm staying home and I don't think I'll be seeing anyone. Eeek.

Finished another one...

2006-08-25T17:05:00.000-05:00

The Rowan Plaid cabled scarf is now done....

I am getting really sick of my unfinished projects and am READY to start something new.

Lots of Swatching and New Rowan Mag 40

2006-08-23T20:36:00.000-05:00

I swatched up my Brooks Farm Harmony yarn for the Knitted Bodice KAL starting on September 1st... I used size 5 addis and will go up one size to get the exact gauge for the pattern, but I like the fabric.

I also stopped by Knitche over the weekend and bought two skeins of the new Rowan yarns to swatch.

Here's Tapestry - I really like this one - got gauge on size 4 addis (22 sts x30 rows is the gauge.) The fabric reminds me of Kid Classic but I like the variegated nature of this yarn and it feels soft to work with. I like the Sorrel pattern in Rowan Magazine 40 (finally received it the day before yesterday!) which uses this yarn and it's on "my list" of future projects.

Here's the new Romance yarn - got gauge on size 10 bamboos. This one I'm not totally sure about - I like the color I picked out but the fabric is pretty bulky. It looks nice when knitted up but I'm not sure if it would be too scratchy to wear without anything under it.

I also bought Little Big Wool but haven't swatched that one yet. It seems like it is supposed to be a replacement for Polar, but it isn't as soft. We'll see how it knits up.

On Rowan Mag 40, I was surprised at how heavily they featured a (somewhat) older but one of my favorite yarns, Kid Classic. There's a great pattern called Aelf that I really like.

Cute huh?

Another One Down!

2006-08-19T09:16:00.000-05:00

I posted this on the UFO August blog too, but I was so proud of this one I had to post it here too.

Pattern: Dress Me Up from The Yarn Girls' Guide to Kid Knits
Yarn: Stacy Charles Victoria and Crystal Palace Fizz
Needles: Addi Turbo, Size 7 and Size H crochet hook

Yay! This is the first Christmas present I've completed so far!

More Progress on Items 12 and 14

2006-08-19T06:30:00.000-05:00

I posted new pics at UFO August on items #12 and #14 from my unfinished project list. The exec summary is: two more items have all the pieces knitted now and just need to be sewn. I'm hoping to get a lot more done today.

Still WAITING for my Rowan Magazine #40. Has anyone with a Rowan International subscription gotten theirs yet in the mail? It seems like every local yarn shop has them, but I still haven't received mine yet. This year I really liked the project they were giving with membership as it matched another project I had in the works already, but after next year, I'm not sure I'm signing up again. And when I emailed them through their site to ask, I think it said something crazy like a 7-10 day turnaround time on responses!!! Whaaaattt? How does a business get away with that? Wait, I know, because we put up with it? Ok, it's too early to be ranting this much. Maybe I should switch to decaf.

HTML Woes

2006-08-17T09:44:00.000-05:00

My goal for today was to figure out how to post a button to my blog. I decided to start with the UFO August button, and went to the UFO August page, then did "View Source" in Internet Explorer, found the button part of the text, and pasted it into the template section of my blog. After a few tries, I got the button to post, but now it moved everything to the left side at the bottom, instead of the right side at the bottom.

I really need an HTML class. I am just a little too old (eek) to have learned HTML in school and I think I (finally) understand how people feel when they are trying to work with technology they aren't familar with. I have to admit I haven't been all that sympathetic to those people in the past, and I want to say, I officially apologize. Now, I have to find some sort of online or offline HTML class to sign up for or book to buy b/c I can't stand not knowing something I need to know.

Progress on "The List"

2006-08-16T13:12:00.000-05:00

I've been making a lot of progress on my unfinished objects lately - I'm actually finding it fun to pull out these old projects that I haven't worked on since last year and work on them/finish them up. I am so restless though - I can't even finish one all the way through with regard to the "finishing" - i.e., I will sew one side seam, then need some variety and have to pick up the neck on a different project, then have to do the crochet edging on another. It's just crazy how un-monogamous I am with these projects....what does that say about me? Wait, don't answer that.

Remainder of the Stitches Midwest Purchases

2006-08-15T13:59:00.000-05:00

More Brooks Farm - this one is Primero (100% mohair) in a rose/green colorway (sorry the picture is so dark, I'm showing the large version of the pic to compensate...)

Tess Designer Yarns superwash merino in a coppery/red-brown/chocolate colorway...

And some unbelievably soft Quiviut (maybe it all is, this was my first encounter with it) that I bought from Windy Valley Muskox.

And that is finally IT!

My Weekend Progress on UFO August

2006-08-14T21:26:00.000-05:00

If you read the UFO August blog, just ignore this post. But I thought I would post here for those who are interested. I finally had some progress over the weekend on my unfinished projects, and knocked three out with progress on some others.

First item - Linen Print Pullover. This one came out looking more sheer in the photo than I thought it would be, so you can see my cami right through it in the pic below so I thought I would also show it on a hanger. Not crazy about this one.

Item #2 - Fetching. Picked up the thumbs and I love it! This was the first time I tried fingerless gloves and it wasn't that hard. I even used the Magic Loop method for the thumbs and it was very do-able.

#11 from my list - sew strap onto felted purse - Done!

And a progress pic from #3 - Louisa Harding tank. I did one strap/armhole pickup and it came out pretty well! Not hard, just tedious and took a long time, so I see why I've been putting it off.

A Case of the Mondays...

2006-08-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Remember in the movie Office Space where they are talking about the obnoxious corporate restaurant guy saying "Sounds like somebody's got a case of the Mondays" in whiny sort of voice? Well, I think I have that today. I just felt "blah" coming into work today and wanted to snap out of it, so I started thinking of good things that offset (and actually outweigh) the blahs. Here's my list - I actually feel better from this silly little exercise!

Blah
coming into work
cell phone's not fully working
not having blogged my addl SM purchases or Fos
being 2.5 lbs more than my lowest point
drinking too much wine over the weekend
how much I spent at the SM market

Good

Pete's gone (PITA houseguest for last three weeks)
all my finished objects over the weekend
blogging about them later all at one time when Jim can take pics of me in them
knowing I'll be down at least 1.5 lbs in the next few days (was there Friday)
having fun over the weekend
SM purchases
saving money by deciding not to try Botox and Restylane yet
new hair color
figuring out that spray tanning works for me fine so I can stop UV tanning
my new retin-A product, Tazarac as it is really clearing up my skin

I had done this originally side by side but I'm an HTML "dummy" so don't know how to format it as a table in here. But the important thing is, I feel better. If you're feeling blah this morning, take a few minutes to try doing this. It worked for me!

Early Stitches Midwest Finds from Market Preview Night

2006-08-11T07:47:00.000-05:00

Really quick pre-work post -

Brooks Farm Riata - 4 skeins (luscious!)

4 More Skeins of Brooks Farm Riata

Tess Designer Yarns ribbon (this stuff feels incredible!)

Garment Designer - software for making sewing as well as knitting patterns - I love this!

Buckle for if I ever do Tempting II and a perfect button for CeCe:

And a cute coffee mug from Pearl's Knitwits (I have to go online to get a tank top from them too.) I also bought a few cards from them - they were extremely sweet.

Scary List for UFO August - As Promised (Warned?)

2006-08-09T08:26:00.000-05:00

1. Finish side seams on Linen Print raglan pullover

2. Fetching fingerless gloves - pick up thumbs off waste yarn and finish

3. Pick up around armholes & sew Louisa Harding tank

4. CeCe in Calmer (coral shade) - last sleeve

5. Plymouth Napa ballet pullover from Interweave Knits back issue - finish sleeves

6. Noah's v-neck Yarn Girls "Mikey Liked It" pullover - finish sleeves and sew

7. Frank's Rowan Plaid vest - pick up neck and do shoulder and side seams

8. Vicki's Jaeger Natural Fleece vest from JB38- pick up neck and do shoulder seams

9. Mia's Yarn Girls Victoria dress - do edging and sew together

10. sew fuschia Cork baby sweater

11. sew strap onto Malabrigo felted purse

12. yellow/orange cork garter ridge sweater from Rowan Cork Collection – reknit back neck, seam

13. Greek Pullover from Interweave Knits – seam

14. Noro V-neck – finish last sleeve and seam together

15. Jaeger Natural Fleece V-neck with "fur" trimmed sleeves from JB 38 – pick up neck, seam

16. Green Gable in Brown Sheep Lilac Haze - almost at armholes (top down)

17. "seashell" Rowan Plaid cabled scarf

18. Bob's Big Wool basketweave cardigan from Men in Knits - almost done with back armholes, need to do left & right front, sleeves

19. Debbie Bliss lace/bobble jacket - finish back

20. Silky Wool Margery sweater (working on back)

Floors are Almost Done!

2006-08-09T06:34:00.000-05:00

Here's an (almost) finished object from my husband, Jim...

Me, not so much. To be honest, I am kinda temporarily blah about the projects I'm currently knitting and am itching to start something new. At the same time, I really want to finish these lingering projects so I think maybe this knitalong will give me some motivation. In this "UFO August" knitalong, you post your list of unfinished projects, sorted by priority (top priority first) and work through it, posting your finished projects as you go. For each finished project, you get entered into a drawing for a prize.

I thought this was a really a good idea and I hope it works out well so we can continue to do "UFO September", "UFO October" - because there's no way I can do all of mine in one month. Although I was enheartened to read that some people's lists are as long and scary as mine! So, as soon as I hear from Jeanie adding me to the knitalong, I will be posting my scary list here and over there. I would post the button on my blog, but I'm too clueless to figure out how to do that.

One CeCe 3/4 Length Sleeve Down...

2006-08-04T06:20:00.000-05:00

and one to go!

Like a Hole in the Head....

2006-08-03T15:10:00.000-05:00

I’ve come to the conclusion that I need more yarn like I need a hole in the head. I tried previously to take “inventory” of what existed in my yarn closet and I’ll tell ya, the results aren’t pretty. (Well, they are, but the fact that I’ve spent $4000 on yarn so far this year – thank you, Microsoft Money- is decidedly not.)

As a result, I’ve come to the decision that I’ll limit my future yarn purchases this year to 1.) Stitches Midwest next week and 2.) any irresistible selections from the Elann.com swatching membership for the remainder of this calendar year. At the risk of one of you tracking me down and breaking and entering to snatch any of these lovelies – take a look at this inventory. It’s truly insane, and I know it’s not even complete.

Tahki Bunny Print blue/green variegated for drop stitch zip-front sweater

Tahki Bunny Print orange/brown variegated

Stacy Charles Victoria copper/brown/cream

7 coral Tahki Cotton Classic

8 bright lime green Tahki Cotton Classic

6 Rowan recycled chunky brown variegated - Sally Melville skirt?

10 Elsebeth Lavold sedona red Silky Wool

SW Trading Co green bamboo for Summer 2006 Interweave Knits tank

3 sk Giotto - Katy Ryan tunic in Interweave Knits Spring 2006

sushi wallet felting kit

3 pomegranate tartelette

green/brown kimono angora/kimono ribbon - Louisa Harding v neck sweater with ribbon edging

gray Jaeger mohair art- ?? "Maggie" from Rowan Mag 35?

Debbie Bliss Soho green/brown mix

4 Cotton Braid "Cezanne" for tank top + one extra (may use for purse?)

10 blush linen print, 1 peachy, 1 refresher for lace top in the Linen Print Collection

louisa harding seafoam green Kashmir dk for ???

4 sk gray/white big wool fusion –gender neutral baby sweater?

green/gray Noro Kureyon – was going to be Noah’s sweater – may be next year’s Christmas gift

pink All Seasons Cotton

Noro Kochoran - v neck sweater?

silk variegated green/brown/cream yarn from Stitches Midwest - custom sweater from 1000 sweaters book or one of RYC sweaters in DK weight or Annie Modesitt lace corset

blue/gray Biggy Print - swatch to Colinette Point 5/Shimmer 5 patterns' gauge

Colinette Point 5 - turquoise

colinette prism - reddish peach

colinette giotto - blue/green

colinette giotto - copper

white Jaeger Trinity for cabled tank

yellow all seasons cotton for ?

White cotton tape for ??? (10 skein pack)

Terracotta Canyon Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece – for lace tunic in Hot Knits by Melissa Leapman

Brown Sheep Burly Spun in periwinkle/lime for cabled Celtic pullover in Hot Knits

2 skeins coral Brown Sheep cotton fleece

2 skeins lime Brown Sheep cotton fleece

So do ya all agree that the last thing I need is YARN???????? I read Amanda’s post about reaching the bottom of her yarn basket with amazement – how does this happen? How does one muster this much self control? I have to hand it to her.

Mikey Liked It V Neck in process pic

2006-08-02T08:48:00.000-05:00

More Works in Progress

2006-08-01T12:19:00.000-05:00

Well, my golf lesson at Cog Hill on Sunday morning went GREAT. I really clicked with the golf pro, Rachel Teresi, co-founder of Women to Women Golf School in the Chicago area. She has a really organized approach and as she puts it, she teaches objectively rather than subjectively. I also found it very interesting that she did not take up golf until she was 28.

I am in the process of setting up another lesson with her for one of the mornings this weekend and plan to take ½ hour with her each week. An hour was really nice for the first lesson but I think most of the instruction is covered in ½ hour and the rest is practice. I set up a new daily task on my Outlook task list to practice the two drills she showed me – if it’s on the task list, it gets done (usually) – if not, it doesn’t.

Knitting – I finished the front of Noah’s Yarn Girls “Mikey Liked It” v neck sweater and am now working on the first sleeve. Pictures to come... My webcast knitting – had a 1 ½ hour one on a new accounting pronouncement yesterday so got a lot done during that one. Next I have to get going on my mother in law’s vest and on Noah’s sister McKenna’s fair isle cardigan (here's what it should look like when it's done!)

It’s only the beginning of August though.

Also finished both fingerless gloves except for the thumb because I RAN OUT OF YARN even though I unraveled my gauge swatch! I never run out of yarn, so my row gauge must have been tighter than the pattern designer's. So, have to go back to Knitche to get another ball - I'll just make another pair with the rest of the skein I buy, just a little shorter and give one away as a gift.

Went to two yarn sales over the weekend/yesterday – although I’m bummed about the reason for the sales (shop closures.) Tangled Web Fibers in Oak Park is selling everything for 40% off starting today (they just had cotton on sale over the weekend so I scored some Colinette Wigwam (in “Copperbeach”)

for the Summer 2006 Interweave Knits brioche tank at 40% off. I’m going to try to go back there this week, maybe tomorrow night, to stash up.

The second yarn sale is at Flying Colors in Clarendon Hills – the building is being demolished and the nice owners decided that it was time for them to retire rather than moving to another location. Apparently they’ve moved once before in the last few years, so they weren’t up for doing it again. They are selling everything at 50% off, and I had been over there before (twice) when everything was 40% off and the selection was better. They still have Rowan Big Wool, Jaeger Natural Fleece and Rowan Chunky Print so I was debating going back for it. I bought a 10 pack of more Tahki Bunny Print in an orange/brown colorway,

9 skeins of Stacy Charles Victoria in a variegated copper, dark brownish ash and cream color

and 4 back issues of Interweave Knits (my absolute favorite magazine.)

And house progress pics - the french doors and new stairs are now in

Next up? New hardwood floors!

Fetching #1 Almost Done & The Dreaded Golf Lesson

2006-07-30T06:01:00.000-05:00

Here's the first fingerless "Fetching" glove - the waste yarn indicates where I need to pick up for the thumb. I started the next one though as I wasn't at home when I finished the first one and needed to be by myself to attempt that delicate operation!

And in other news, at 8 am, I have my first golf lesson with a female golf pro at Cog Hill, about half an hour away from my home. I took one lesson with my friend Stefanie about four years ago at a public course in Wheaton from a guy who was less than enthused, and hit some balls out at a driving range a few times, but other than that I'm a total "golf virgin". But I figure I was able to go from a complete knitting virgin to what I would consider an intermediate knitter in the space of a year and a half - so I'm going to attack golf the same way. Jim plays and it would be nice to be able to play with him - also I get a lot of invites at work that I always have to turn down b/c I don't (yet) play.

So like eating my vegetables, I'm going to work on learning to get good at golf. I don't want to play with the guys unless I can get good (read: kick their butts!) so I'm willing to practice to get there even though it's going to somewhat take away from "wool time" (as Jim would put it.)

Wish me luck! I've got to get ready to go now.

Rowan International, Fetching and CeCe Sleeve

2006-07-29T08:46:00.000-05:00

Got my Rowan International club gift for renewing today! I love this bag and it's going to look perfect with my lace and bobble jacket (once I finish it!)

Also started Fetching last night - I really like the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran yarn. I think this color will look great with my chocolate brown suede fall coat. I know there is a knitalong for this one but I haven't tried doing any of those yet. Too much pressure, I think, especially with all the multiple projects I always have going on at once.

CeCe sleeve in process - I wasn't motivated enough to figure out how to work the increases into the lace pattern, so I thought they looked OK in plain stockinette (like the body.) I'm thinking about the type of button to use for the closure on the body and I think I want to do like a short chopstick type button in a sort of rosewood. I'll have to start looking for that.

Elann.com Swatching Membership

2006-07-28T06:38:00.000-05:00

Just signed up for the 1 year of Elann sample yarns and color snips with their newsletters and got my first month - I love this, but does anyone else think they have the better end of the deal here? Um, if I look at all the colors and swatch every one of the yarns coming out on sale in August, odds are there's going to be one I'm going to like and order. Yeah, you pay $52.50 USD for it, and they give you vouchers totaling that amount for $2.50 off each $25 spent, but this is a slick marketing move for sure on their part as they are pretty much assured that they will get an order of some sort every month from me (and I'd bet most of their subscribers to this) now.

This month's Exhibit A? Lang Viva - the gauge swatch shown in the picture (which, why did they send me in black of all colors - not so good for seeing stitch definition or blogging.) I'm trying to decide which of the metallic colors to buy it in - I like it in the silver and the pewter colors (both of which I have small snips of) and liked working up the swatch and also liked the free pattern they're going to be offering with it (newsletter is folded to show it in my picture.)

I look at this membership almost as insurance against buying yarns from Elann that end up not working out - I am picky about the yarns I work with and usually buy only one ball first to swatch to decide if I want to "marry it" and make the commitment to buy enough yarn for the whole project. With Elann, I buy a TON of individual skeins to swatch (yeah, I know, I need to sign up for the One Skein knitalong) but don't always get around to swatching them or buying more yarn for a project. This way I don't buy any individual skeins, but they get me to buy all of the yarn at once for a project, as I already know I like it.

Anyway, don't get me wrong, I like the membership, but I'm admiring the shrewdness of their marketing.

Galena Pic

2006-07-27T15:05:00.000-05:00

Just got the pics from our corporate outing at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa in Galena two weeks ago - most pictures of Jim and I look kinda fake or posed but I think this one captures us the way we really are. LOVE IT! We've had our rough spots like any couple but I have to say I'm glad we both hung in there - things are better than ever!

Magic Loop

2006-07-26T06:45:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be starting the first sleeve for my CeCe today using the Magic Loop method. Got my Addi turbos in 40" length from Knitche and am good to go. I tried the method the day before yesterday using the longest size needle I had (32") but it was a little stretched out so I decided to go with the 40" size that they recommend in the Magic Loop brochure. I'll let you know how it goes!

Oh, one more thing about the CeCe - when I was on my flight to Kansas City, one of the flight attendants stopped by and commented on how much she liked the pattern and asked where she could buy it so I gave her the link to Bonne Marie's site.

So that was cool - I like helping out independent pattern designers like her by passing on the word. Maybe in some parallel universe if I ever get to the point where I'm designing patterns, it'll come back to me somehow. I do believe in that sort of thing - getting back the positive energy (or not so positive) that you put forth into the universe. And now back to your regularly scheduled program...

Lots of Work in Process....

2006-07-25T06:21:00.000-05:00

I kept promising pictures but didn't get myself in gear until this morning (and I forgot my camera at home for the Kansas trip so didn't get any pics there - I have some of our family sending them to me though!)

But here's all the work in process...

CeCe - done with the body, about to start the sleeves and am going to try the Magic Loop method for it to avoid weird joins in the middle of the lace pattern - must.get.40".circulars...

Green Gable - about ready to be tried on before the sleeves- two more rounds

Linen Print pullover - need to finish last bit of seaming

Cotton Tape cardigan - need to sew in sleeves (not shown - was thinking of leaving as a long vest - what do you all think?)

Plaid vest for Uncle Frank's Christmas gift - have the back done, need to finish the front

My two felting projects that I finally felted - purse and tulip - need to sew on the strap for the purse and get the wire into the flower/sew petals together

And our french doors (in process) - it's a little disconcerting to see your house completely open to the elements so I had to take a "before" pic! They're installed now, but I'll wait for the after pic until we get our hardwood floors in.

We're Not in Kansas Anymore (or Yet)

2006-07-21T05:44:00.000-05:00

We're leaving this morning for Jim's great-aunt's 100th birthday party/family reunion in Kansas. Should be fun- the last time we were there was ten years ago for her 90th! We've seen some of the people in the meantime at weddings, holidays, etc. but some we haven't seen in the full ten years.

We'll be flying into Kansas City, like a 50 minute flight, then driving south for two hours to Pittsburg, Kansas, a small town in the southeast sector of the state. I'm bringing snacks with me, as they don't really eat out too much there - "Chicken Annie" and "Chicken Mary" (fried chicken catering places that are advertised everywhere on their billboards) and Pizza Hut are pretty much it.

On the drive down, we'll also make a stop in Lawrence to hit the Yarn Barn of Kansas, as I went to their booth last year at Stitches Midwest (which I'll be attending again this year!) and bought some good stuff. I'll be back on Sunday, hopefully with some pictures!

CeCe in Progress

2006-07-18T21:01:00.000-05:00

Here's my latest project - CeCe. This lace pattern is so easy to work and I love the Calmer yarn in the Coral shade. Another great thing is that it is worked in basically one piece so no seaming :) and I also like the new 3/4 sleeve option, which makes it more versatile year round. This is the first of Bonne Marie's patterns that I've tried (although I've bought some of her others and will eventually get to them) and she rocks as a pattern designer.

And, I love Flickr - I will be much less of a slacker now that I have a good interface to upload pictures through. This is soooo much easier than dealing with Blogger's picture interface.

Life is good!

Testing Flickr....

2006-07-18T19:23:00.000-05:00

Ok, I think that worked. Thanks to everyone who suggested Flickr in the comments - I appreciate it! It works a lot easier. Now to go take some actual pictures....

Green Gable and Various Uses for Calmer

2006-07-12T13:43:00.000-05:00

I'm back to "blog slackerdom". A lot has been going on lately and it's seemed like a chore to log on and blog. But I have been doing a lot of knitting. Actually finished four of those unfinished projects I previously was talking about, pics to come later, and started working on Green Gable in Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece, Lilac Haze. I need more yarn though, hopefully it arrives by Thursday when I leave for the weekend.

I also have been trying to determine what I want to do with the coral Calmer I have in my stash. I originally thought I would be making Audrey
but I think my swatch (although I've gotten gauge) is too holey looking.

I think I may use this yarn for CeCe instead, in the 3/4 length sleeve version. I could also use it for the Waves strapless tank that was nominated for the Sexy Knitters Club Knitalong, but I've already made one tube top out of it. I decided not to make Tempting II (the pattern that finally won) b/c I hate 1x1 ribbing and also liked it at a smaller gauge (like the 2x2 rib above.)

I've been debating which knitting project to bring with me to our corporate outing in Galena this weekend and can't find the right "mindless wool" project. I think my co-workers would look at me oddly if I was staring at the Debbie Bliss Wish You Were Here book and chanting the lace and bobble pattern to myself as I worked on that jacket (which by the way, I'm on the back of so am about 2/3 of the way through the knitting part - aside from all of the picking up required.) Even though the CeCe is less complicated, I still would need to refer to a chart, which is also not real conducive to conversation and co-worker bonding.

I did pick up 3 balls of Jaeger Trinity for this cable tank top ('Hazel") and the back would probably qualify as mindless non-wool. Seems like all my other projects are along the lines of cables or lace though so they're out.

The "Clean the Bathroom Chore of Knitting"

2006-07-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Late yesterday afternoon, I completed the second sleeve of the Linen Print Anna sweater. I had high hopes that this time I finished knitting the pieces of a project, I would dive right in with the real finishing. As one of my commenters so aptly put it a few weeks ago, the "clean the bathroom chore of knitting." Well, that's about how anxious I am to get started on it.

I think I have some sort of performance anxiety with finishing. I must have really taken to heart the admonitions in the back of the Rowan books that "it seems a shame that many beautiful projects are spoilt at the end when finishing" (paraphrased but retained the cute Queen's English-ism of "spoilt".)

The thing is, I'm not a bad finish-er. I do a pretty good job with the old invisible seaming since my class with Leslye Solomon at Stitches Midwest last year. I even have her DVD to pop in if I forget how to do something. I think I really do have performance anxiety issues around it b/c I'm so afraid I'm going to do precisely what the Rowan books say I might.

I was trying to think back to when I have the best luck with sewing my projects together - and actually it's after I've had a glass of wine and I"m a little relaxed and sort of feel devil-may-care about the whole process. I always thought my best time to do this was first thing in the morning after being jacked up on coffee or sugarfree Red Bull, but I think that's actually the best time to knit like a fiend. (See, I'm talking myself out of doing it now.)

Last night I was avoiding this finishing (which really should be easy - it's a raglan pullover where everything is still on holders - how easy can it get, really!) so much that I pulled out my felted flower project that I'd started back around Easter, of all things, and started diligently adding the inside petals. (Oh, and now I'm stuck on that one as I have to thread a ribbon through the I-cord stem and I don't have any ribbons, unless maybe I can use tartalette or something like that? Damn, I think I just came up with a solution to my procrastination on that one.)

And the funny thing is about this finishing performance anxiety is it feeds itself - because you know what I do instead of finishing the project I started? You guessed it, start another project! So right now I have at least seven or eight things to sew together, taunting me from their neat plastic prisons from the Container Store every time I walk into my closet.

But again I'll say what I always say (and how the projects have proliferated since then!) "Know what? This is my long weekend off from work, and I'm going to work on whatever I want. Knitting is my hobby, not my job, and so I'm going to have fun with it. There's enough time in life for things we're not so enthused about (like cleaning the bathroom.)"

So off I go to start another project. Unless someone can motivate me to finish the ones I have.

Postscript: I just took inventory in my closet and discovered I have not six or seven, but in fact TWELVE projects waiting to be sewn. And four that have some knitting left on them to do. That is kind of motivating in itself - if I can finish these, I will have SIXTEEN more finished projects under my belt.