Dear Dishcloth Swap Pal,
I owe you an apology.
I gave away your dishcloths.
I KNOW, it's terrible! You might have seen them on the blog. Maybe you've been wondering, even hoping, that they were for you. Perhaps you just knew that the cloths I made were for you, as I was so in tune with what you wrote on your questionnaire. You may have even daydreamed about what your soap would be like, and you've imagined using the cloths and soap, as life moved on perfectly around you.
I can explain.
Today, I went with my in-laws to visit my husband's aunt. The aunt whom shares a name with little girl (which was actually, totally inadvertent. But, she doesn't know that). Auntie is over 90, and I couldn't think of what to bring her to brighten her day, and I figured I would pick up a box of chocolates or something on the way. But then, little ones were cranky, Big Boy was obnoxious before school, and it took forever to get ready to go. Time was ticking, and I needed a gift.
The good news is, Auntie really liked them! I'm sure if you have aunts, or in-laws, you understand.
I promise to knit you some new ones before your package goes out, and I do hope you accept my apology.
Happy Knitting
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Monday, January 28, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Dishcloth Topic #2
There are many people who ADORE receiving hand-knit or crochet items; but there are just as many who have no appreciation whatever of how much love, work, and time goes into a hand-made item. Share a story of a hand-made gift you gave to someone and how it worked out - good, bad, or ugly!
My very first knitting project was a scarf for my husband. But, I wanted it to be a surprise, and he knew I had taken a knitting class. SO, I actually knit 2 scarves at once. One to work on when DH was home, and his to work on when he wasn't. The other scarf went to a good friend who crochets, and she totally appreciated the effort. My husband was really touched that my first project was really for him, and didn't even mind that it got wrapped up for Christmas with the needles still attached, as I wasn't quite done. I hope to come up with something else to knit for him in the future, since I think my skills are quite improved since then!
My very first knitting project was a scarf for my husband. But, I wanted it to be a surprise, and he knew I had taken a knitting class. SO, I actually knit 2 scarves at once. One to work on when DH was home, and his to work on when he wasn't. The other scarf went to a good friend who crochets, and she totally appreciated the effort. My husband was really touched that my first project was really for him, and didn't even mind that it got wrapped up for Christmas with the needles still attached, as I wasn't quite done. I hope to come up with something else to knit for him in the future, since I think my skills are quite improved since then!
Stash Glimpse
Here's the Cascade I bought to knit to the Noni Adventure bag. It's not quite as purple as it looks in the picture - it's like a brownish/purplish/chocolatey color - if that makes sense.
I'm more than halfway through the second baby kimono - and sick of it! Stockinette stitch goes so much slower than garter! I'm anxious to get started on the Adventure bag though, because I'll want my mom to sew in the zipper while I'm there in February. If only I didn't have a household to attend to! :)
Happy Knitting!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Dishcloth Mania
I spent a couple of days knitting these for the Dishcloth Swap:
Could they be yours?
I've started to gather some goodies for the package. I know I have plenty of time, but February always gets away from me.
I'm working on my second baby kimono - this one in stockinette stitch. It's taking forever! But, isn't that always the case with second projects immediately following the first one? (Like, say, a second sock!) I have knit a round or two every day on my sock, so it hasn't been abandoned.
If you live in the Woburn or Framingham area, The Fabric Place is having 25% off EVERYTHING, including clearance stuff. They are also honoring your $5 off a $25 purchase coupons. I got a GREAT deal - I bought 3 skeins of Cascade 220 for the Noni Adventure Bag, and an Addi Turbo circular needle. When it was all said and done, I got the needles for free (and they are NOT inexpensive needles!)
Now, go wish Miss Me a Happy Blogging Anniversary and find something fun to do on this fine Saturday morning.
Happy knitting!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
7 Random Things
I've been tagged! I've never been tagged before, and consider it quite an honor! Thank you Cathy!
7 Random Facts Meme
Here are the rules, and they must be posted to your blog.
Link to the person’s blog who tagged you (see above).
List seven random and/or weird facts about yourself.
Tag seven random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
Let each person know that they have been tagged by posting a comment on their blog and also so they can look at your blog and not tag the same people all over again!
And now, my 7 things:
1. I moved to Boston to pursue a doctorate in Special Education at Boston University, and plan on re-enrolling in Fall, 2008 (although, I hope to be doing work towards my dissertation between now and then.)
2. I have a ridiculously good memory (although not a photographic one)
3. I would rather live in the Buffalo area than the Boston area (but I would rather live with my husband, near my stepson than anywhere else!)
4. I was captain of my high school cheerleading squad 3 out of 5 seasons (I believe it had something to do with being able to accurately count the money, and knowing the difference between defense and offense. It's never good to be screaming out "Defense" when your team is on offense.)
5. I am 9 years younger than my husband, and 27 years younger than his older brother. I am 2 years older than my husband's oldest nephew. Question - which table should I sit at during family functions? The adult table or the kid table?
Addendum: Apparently, I can't count. Here are the REST of my seven random things. (Thanks Kris!) In light of that, maybe I won't mention that I taught math for a couple of years, and even presented at two National Council Teachers of Math conferences, on how to help children with special needs achieve high standards!
6. I worked for several years as a camp counselor, which means I have a variety of fairly useless skills in every day life - I can build a one-match fire (i.e. a fire which can be lit with only 1 match), and cook a three course meal in it, I can weave a story around a bunch of songs for an evening "songfest", I can name 55 activities that fit into the theme of "Circles", and I can tie seven different kinds of knots. I can "gunnel" a canoe, shoot a bullseye with a bow and arrow, and think of at least three crafts involving used matchsticks.
7. My first "real" job was selling furniture at The Bombay Company. I became pretty darn good at "reading" the customer and figuring out which collection of pieces would appeal to him/her. During busy times I was usually relegated to checking out, due to my excellent and speedy typing skills, ability to count money (see random fact #4) and my complete inability to find things in the stockroom.
And now, for the tagging:
1. Kristen: http://dayinthelifeof531.blogspot.com/
2. Alana: http://stringsandpurls.blogspot.com/
3. Kris: http://knottyknitterkris.blogspot.com/
4. KC: http://frog-it.blogspot.com
5. Shawnee: http://shawneett.blogspot.com/
6. Justshajam: http://justshajam-crazypplscareme.blogspot.com/
7. Moriah: http://knittingmedstudent.blogspot.com/
Happy Knitting!
7 Random Facts Meme
Here are the rules, and they must be posted to your blog.
Link to the person’s blog who tagged you (see above).
List seven random and/or weird facts about yourself.
Tag seven random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
Let each person know that they have been tagged by posting a comment on their blog and also so they can look at your blog and not tag the same people all over again!
And now, my 7 things:
1. I moved to Boston to pursue a doctorate in Special Education at Boston University, and plan on re-enrolling in Fall, 2008 (although, I hope to be doing work towards my dissertation between now and then.)
2. I have a ridiculously good memory (although not a photographic one)
3. I would rather live in the Buffalo area than the Boston area (but I would rather live with my husband, near my stepson than anywhere else!)
4. I was captain of my high school cheerleading squad 3 out of 5 seasons (I believe it had something to do with being able to accurately count the money, and knowing the difference between defense and offense. It's never good to be screaming out "Defense" when your team is on offense.)
5. I am 9 years younger than my husband, and 27 years younger than his older brother. I am 2 years older than my husband's oldest nephew. Question - which table should I sit at during family functions? The adult table or the kid table?
Addendum: Apparently, I can't count. Here are the REST of my seven random things. (Thanks Kris!) In light of that, maybe I won't mention that I taught math for a couple of years, and even presented at two National Council Teachers of Math conferences, on how to help children with special needs achieve high standards!
6. I worked for several years as a camp counselor, which means I have a variety of fairly useless skills in every day life - I can build a one-match fire (i.e. a fire which can be lit with only 1 match), and cook a three course meal in it, I can weave a story around a bunch of songs for an evening "songfest", I can name 55 activities that fit into the theme of "Circles", and I can tie seven different kinds of knots. I can "gunnel" a canoe, shoot a bullseye with a bow and arrow, and think of at least three crafts involving used matchsticks.
7. My first "real" job was selling furniture at The Bombay Company. I became pretty darn good at "reading" the customer and figuring out which collection of pieces would appeal to him/her. During busy times I was usually relegated to checking out, due to my excellent and speedy typing skills, ability to count money (see random fact #4) and my complete inability to find things in the stockroom.
And now, for the tagging:
1. Kristen: http://dayinthelifeof531.blogspot.com/
2. Alana: http://stringsandpurls.blogspot.com/
3. Kris: http://knottyknitterkris.blogspot.com/
4. KC: http://frog-it.blogspot.com
5. Shawnee: http://shawneett.blogspot.com/
6. Justshajam: http://justshajam-crazypplscareme.blogspot.com/
7. Moriah: http://knittingmedstudent.blogspot.com/
Happy Knitting!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Charity Knitting Challenge
The Patriots are playing the Giants in the Superbowl, and I couldn't be more excited! My husband has lived in the metro Boston area his whole life, and he LOVES the Pats. My dad is a lifelong Giants fan - and he's flying to Boston to watch the game with us!!!!! I'm so excited, I can barely contain myself! (Although, bummed that Dad says he can't take Buffalo wings on the plane with him.)
Sunday, during the two games, in between frying up my own homemade wings (Not nearly as good as Duff's), and corralling small children, I did some knitting.
The first is a baby hat for an expectant friend. The one on Bitty Baby is a preemie hat to donate to charity - they were being collected at my local A.C. Moore. I've realized that I should be knitting much more for charity. The preemie hat took about an hour and a half, and probably would have taken much less time if the Giants game hadn't been such a nail-biter. There's just no excuse, given all that I have, not to give to the less fortunate.
And so, I am challenging myself to knit one item for charity per month (it's not a lot - a preemie hat, a pair of mittens, a Warm-up America Square). I'm hoping that I'll do much more, but I've learned to set small goals for myself whenever I'm embarking on something new. Will you join me? Will you knit one item each month to be donated to some worthy cause? Knit for an organization in your neighborhood or across the world. (Don't know how to find an organization who needs handknits? Start here. Or, ask at your local A.C. Moore - I think they all hosted a Warm-up America event last Saturday, and are working through local organizations.)
Please, join me in making a difference. And, please, please - hold me accountable. If you don't see a charity project posted one month - tell me to live up to my own challenge!
Happy Knitting!
Sunday, during the two games, in between frying up my own homemade wings (Not nearly as good as Duff's), and corralling small children, I did some knitting.
The first is a baby hat for an expectant friend. The one on Bitty Baby is a preemie hat to donate to charity - they were being collected at my local A.C. Moore. I've realized that I should be knitting much more for charity. The preemie hat took about an hour and a half, and probably would have taken much less time if the Giants game hadn't been such a nail-biter. There's just no excuse, given all that I have, not to give to the less fortunate.
And so, I am challenging myself to knit one item for charity per month (it's not a lot - a preemie hat, a pair of mittens, a Warm-up America Square). I'm hoping that I'll do much more, but I've learned to set small goals for myself whenever I'm embarking on something new. Will you join me? Will you knit one item each month to be donated to some worthy cause? Knit for an organization in your neighborhood or across the world. (Don't know how to find an organization who needs handknits? Start here. Or, ask at your local A.C. Moore - I think they all hosted a Warm-up America event last Saturday, and are working through local organizations.)
Please, join me in making a difference. And, please, please - hold me accountable. If you don't see a charity project posted one month - tell me to live up to my own challenge!
Happy Knitting!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
I am Dishcloth Cotton - and I am not surprised
What kind of yarn are you? |
 You are Dishcloth Cotton.You are a very hard worker, most at home when you're at home. You are thrifty and seemingly born to clean. You are considered to be a Plain Jane, but you are too practical to notice. Take this quiz!  Quizilla | Join | Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code |
If any of you have met my mother, you know without a doubt that "born to clean" comes in the genes. I am most at home when I am at home, and I do tend to be thrifty. I've never considered myself a "plain jane", but I can't say I've spent a lot of time considering it.
I'm going to attempt to knit a baby hat during the Patriots game today. I'm hoping that both the Patriots (DH's team) and the Giants (Dad's team) win today, and then I'm hoping that I can convince my Dadd to come visit the weekend of the Superbowl.
Happy Knitting!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
New Knitters
Well, there are 2 new knitters in the world, and 2 learned again knitters in the world. 3 of them are very excited to knit, and 1 isn't sold on it quite yet (I know, it's hard to wrap your mind around the idea that anyone wouldn't just love to knit, but try to open up to the possibility. You know, like the random person who doesn't like chocolate.) We have a yarn field trip planned in a couple of weeks (SO FAR AWAY! I might need to get a yarn fix today!)
I didn't get much knitting done during the evening - but I got enough done to bind of the baby kimono. All that's left is to buy the ribbon or snaps (I'm not sure which to use) and seam up the sides. I'm going to wait on that though. I'm going to visit my parents next month, and I want my mom to help me. This kimono is for a baby due in July, so there's no hurry. We can examine WHY I would knit the kimono for the baby due in July BEFORE the one for the baby due in March or April. Here it is, all folded up:
This morning I worked a bit on the second sock this morning, and might do some serious work on that before casting on for something else. I'm feeling a lot of pressure to get stuff done though. 11 days left in January - what will I finish?
Happy Knitting?
I didn't get much knitting done during the evening - but I got enough done to bind of the baby kimono. All that's left is to buy the ribbon or snaps (I'm not sure which to use) and seam up the sides. I'm going to wait on that though. I'm going to visit my parents next month, and I want my mom to help me. This kimono is for a baby due in July, so there's no hurry. We can examine WHY I would knit the kimono for the baby due in July BEFORE the one for the baby due in March or April. Here it is, all folded up:
This morning I worked a bit on the second sock this morning, and might do some serious work on that before casting on for something else. I'm feeling a lot of pressure to get stuff done though. 11 days left in January - what will I finish?
Happy Knitting?
Friday, January 18, 2008
Dishcloth Topic #1
Weekly Topic: Dishrag. Dishcloth. Face cloth. I've seen folks get all fired up in forums when someone refers to their knit or crochet creation as a dishrag, as that's somehow offensive to them! When you're working on yours, what do you call them? Also, is there a difference between a dishrag and a dishcloth? How bout a facecloth? Are they all really the same thing?
I think a dishrag and a dishcloth are the same thing. Perhaps a dishrag has been used more often than a dishcloth. Perhaps dishy things start off as a cloth, and eventually get relegated to a rag. And a facecloth - well, that's serious business. Let me check out the difference between my store-bought dishcloths and washcloths (because that's what I call a facecloth.) Hmmm, they're about the same size, but my washcloths tend to be smoother and one color, whereas my dishcloths tend to have texture and be multi-colored.
If you're knitting - does it matter? It's something handmade. If someone made for you, it's made with love attached! It's a cloth. Use it for something clothy! I made my girlfriend some for her new kitchen. She uses them as hot pads.
Seriously, people get "fired up" about this? Shouldn't they be worried about something more significant? People in the world are hungry, cold, and worried what will happen if the NY Giants play the Patriots in the Superbowl. Let's not argue about semantics. Just don't go calling my pop a soda! :)
Knit/Craft/Chat and Snack night at my house tonight. 3 people will (hopefully) be learning to knit!
Happy knitting!
I think a dishrag and a dishcloth are the same thing. Perhaps a dishrag has been used more often than a dishcloth. Perhaps dishy things start off as a cloth, and eventually get relegated to a rag. And a facecloth - well, that's serious business. Let me check out the difference between my store-bought dishcloths and washcloths (because that's what I call a facecloth.) Hmmm, they're about the same size, but my washcloths tend to be smoother and one color, whereas my dishcloths tend to have texture and be multi-colored.
If you're knitting - does it matter? It's something handmade. If someone made for you, it's made with love attached! It's a cloth. Use it for something clothy! I made my girlfriend some for her new kitchen. She uses them as hot pads.
Seriously, people get "fired up" about this? Shouldn't they be worried about something more significant? People in the world are hungry, cold, and worried what will happen if the NY Giants play the Patriots in the Superbowl. Let's not argue about semantics. Just don't go calling my pop a soda! :)
Knit/Craft/Chat and Snack night at my house tonight. 3 people will (hopefully) be learning to knit!
Happy knitting!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Random
Have you ever noticed that Hershey Kisses and a Hershey Bar don't taste the same?
Where does American Idol find these people to audition? And have you notice that the "last audition of the day" gets to go to Hollywood, every day? (Although, the dude in white who is about to go on might not.)
I've finished half the baby kimono. I'm a little nervous - the way the increases and the decreases on the arms are done, it makes this little stair-step effect (if I wasn't so lazy, I'd take a picture). I'm not sure how it will look when it's seamed. We'll see.
Okay, the dude in white is singing - WHERE DO THEY FIND THESE PEOPLE?
Little ones and I played with the Little People Builder/Bolder set today. We had such a good time! I love when they play with their toys the way I want them to play! (C'mon, admit it. At some point, you've argued with kids over the way their toys should be played with.)
WHERE DO THEY FIND THESE PEOPLE?!?!?!?!?
Little boy, who has been a little behind the curve in talking, has started to say "NO", as opposed to just shaking his head no. Thankfully, he has also stated to call me "Mama" just for the sake of calling me. For a long time, I only heard "Mama" in conjunction with "stuck", as in "MAMA, STUCK!" and I would have to dislodge is shirt or foot or whatever was constraining him in the highchair, crib, under my bed, etc. etc.
My kids are so much fun!
Happy Knitting!
Where does American Idol find these people to audition? And have you notice that the "last audition of the day" gets to go to Hollywood, every day? (Although, the dude in white who is about to go on might not.)
I've finished half the baby kimono. I'm a little nervous - the way the increases and the decreases on the arms are done, it makes this little stair-step effect (if I wasn't so lazy, I'd take a picture). I'm not sure how it will look when it's seamed. We'll see.
Okay, the dude in white is singing - WHERE DO THEY FIND THESE PEOPLE?
Little ones and I played with the Little People Builder/Bolder set today. We had such a good time! I love when they play with their toys the way I want them to play! (C'mon, admit it. At some point, you've argued with kids over the way their toys should be played with.)
WHERE DO THEY FIND THESE PEOPLE?!?!?!?!?
Little boy, who has been a little behind the curve in talking, has started to say "NO", as opposed to just shaking his head no. Thankfully, he has also stated to call me "Mama" just for the sake of calling me. For a long time, I only heard "Mama" in conjunction with "stuck", as in "MAMA, STUCK!" and I would have to dislodge is shirt or foot or whatever was constraining him in the highchair, crib, under my bed, etc. etc.
My kids are so much fun!
Happy Knitting!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
M1 Increase
I'm working on the Baby Kimono, and I tried to follow the instructions for the M1 increase - but it left a hole! Can you see it?
Look by right side of the collar - the HOLE IS THERE! So, instead, I knit into the front and back of the second stitch to increase around the collar. I'm okay with that, but what am I doing wrong?
Very dear friends left for the mission field in Africa today. DH is sick. The little ones have been smiling and hugging all day.
Happy knitting!
Look by right side of the collar - the HOLE IS THERE! So, instead, I knit into the front and back of the second stitch to increase around the collar. I'm okay with that, but what am I doing wrong?Very dear friends left for the mission field in Africa today. DH is sick. The little ones have been smiling and hugging all day.
Happy knitting!
Monday, January 14, 2008
Snow Day!
As you may have heard, New England has some snow - no school for DH or big boy today! I'm celebrating by making a big pot of sauce, and we'll have it over homemade potato gnocchi for dinner tonight. (I put spinach in it - you don't really taste it, but the kids are getting spinach in their little bodies!)
I did try to knit Saturday night. I cast on for the Cozy Cable Mittens (Ravelry link), knit four rows, then ripped it out. I cast on again, knit some, ripped it out. Cast on one last time, knit, and yup, RIIIIP! The patterns is clear, so the problem seems to be my ability to count correctly. Oh, that and handling the cable needle and four DPNs all at once. I gave up, spent some time searching patterns, and I have decided to use the Malabrigo for the Elegant-and-Easy Cable Mittens in (where else?) 101 Designer One Skein Wonders. The pattern calls for a size 4 needle (I bet the mittens are cozy warm). My size 4s are attached to my second sock, which means the sock will have to be a priority.
Not so much of a priority that I didn't cast on for the baby kimono from Mason-Dixon knitting. I just have so many baby gifts to knit, I couldn't wait to start one! Not sure what will get worked on today - I would like to imagine myself all cozy under a blanket with some cocoa, knitting away, but laundry, thank you notes, and general cleaning also calls. Oh, and eventually, we'll have to shovel out the cars.
Happy Knitting!
I did try to knit Saturday night. I cast on for the Cozy Cable Mittens (Ravelry link), knit four rows, then ripped it out. I cast on again, knit some, ripped it out. Cast on one last time, knit, and yup, RIIIIP! The patterns is clear, so the problem seems to be my ability to count correctly. Oh, that and handling the cable needle and four DPNs all at once. I gave up, spent some time searching patterns, and I have decided to use the Malabrigo for the Elegant-and-Easy Cable Mittens in (where else?) 101 Designer One Skein Wonders. The pattern calls for a size 4 needle (I bet the mittens are cozy warm). My size 4s are attached to my second sock, which means the sock will have to be a priority.
Not so much of a priority that I didn't cast on for the baby kimono from Mason-Dixon knitting. I just have so many baby gifts to knit, I couldn't wait to start one! Not sure what will get worked on today - I would like to imagine myself all cozy under a blanket with some cocoa, knitting away, but laundry, thank you notes, and general cleaning also calls. Oh, and eventually, we'll have to shovel out the cars.
Happy Knitting!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
More Non-Shrug
I wore the Non-Shrug (because what else can I call it?) out to dinner last night, and I was SO glad! We were seated near a window and it was a little chilly, and I was SO GLAD that I had something to drape over my shoulders. The project might grow on me.
And yes, DH and I went out to dinner last night with friends. HOORAY for my in-laws for babysitting! We went to a cute little place in Boston's North End, and had a really great time. I had shrimp scampi, and the shrimp were GIANORMOUS! More importantly, we had a great time with our friends who are leaving for the mission field in Africa on Tuesday. Although I'm excited about their venture, I'm very sad for DH and myself. We will miss our friends terribly.
I haven't knit a thing today - not a single solitary stitch. I'll probably do something tonight - but what? Do I work some more on my sock? Cast on for my mittens? Cast on for a baby kimono? Spend more time checking out patterns on Ravelry and thus even less time knitting? We'll see what the night brings.
Happy knitting!
And yes, DH and I went out to dinner last night with friends. HOORAY for my in-laws for babysitting! We went to a cute little place in Boston's North End, and had a really great time. I had shrimp scampi, and the shrimp were GIANORMOUS! More importantly, we had a great time with our friends who are leaving for the mission field in Africa on Tuesday. Although I'm excited about their venture, I'm very sad for DH and myself. We will miss our friends terribly.
I haven't knit a thing today - not a single solitary stitch. I'll probably do something tonight - but what? Do I work some more on my sock? Cast on for my mittens? Cast on for a baby kimono? Spend more time checking out patterns on Ravelry and thus even less time knitting? We'll see what the night brings.
Happy knitting!
Friday, January 11, 2008
The Shrug that Wasn't
I've opted to leave this as a wrap, and not make it into a shrug. I pinned it in place, tried it on, and realized I would never wear it. I think if the shrug was a little wider (and I cast on extra stitches to make it wider to begin with), but it was a out on a limb for me in theory, and in practice, it's a definite no.
The pattern is easy to follow, and the concept makes sense, so I'm wondering if the yarn is the real culprit here. The Lion Brand Suede is weirdly stretchy, and doesn't hold shape very well. The edges get kind of wavy, which is an issue that Myra Wood discussed on "Knitty Gritty". Sewing the edges together would eliminate that.
I don't think it's nice enough to save as a gift, so hopefully, it will be used around the house to stay warm.
It's been raining here all day - dark and dreary. A perfect day for knitting! The little ones have been busy under the dining room table tent, and writing "lists" on Mommy's grocery pad! Yesterday, we went ice skating. Little girl is so much improved from last year. It was little boy's first time, and he's not sure how he feels about being on the ice. He did, however, have lots of fun climbing up and down the stands.
Happy Knitting!
Defeat the Winter Doldrums Dishcloth Swap Questionnaire
1. Do you knit, crochet, or do both? I knit
2. What types of needles do you enjoy using for making dishcloths? Generally, I use a size 6 needle. I can't say I'm fussy.
3. What types of cotton do you enjoy using for making dishcloths? Is there any that you've been wanting to try? I usually use Peaches and Creme, although I'm partial to Sugar n Creme (a little harder to find around here.) Again, not fussy
4. What color(s) are your kitchen and bath decorated in (if any)? The bathroom is lavender, and the kitchen doesn't really have a color scheme.
5. What are your favorite colors for yarns? Least favorite? I'm not a big fan of lime green. I tend to like pinks, purples, and blues.
6. Do you like Winter, or do you count the days until it ends? I generally like winter. I like to be snowy though.
7. What's your favorite way to brighten your day when you're down in the dumps? Exercise, chocolate, a nap, a good book, knitting - not necessarily in that order
8. What is your favorite treat to indulge in and when your down in the dumps? Ice cream and/or chocolate
9. Do you drink coffee? Tea? Cocoa? Cocoa. Starting to get into tea a little bit
10. If you could take a vacation starting tomorrow and go anywhere for one week and money were no object, where would you go and what would you do? Italy or France. I would take a cooking class, and site-see, and NAP!
11. Do you have any allergies or aversions your pal should be aware of? Cats.
Happy Knitting!
2. What types of needles do you enjoy using for making dishcloths? Generally, I use a size 6 needle. I can't say I'm fussy.
3. What types of cotton do you enjoy using for making dishcloths? Is there any that you've been wanting to try? I usually use Peaches and Creme, although I'm partial to Sugar n Creme (a little harder to find around here.) Again, not fussy
4. What color(s) are your kitchen and bath decorated in (if any)? The bathroom is lavender, and the kitchen doesn't really have a color scheme.
5. What are your favorite colors for yarns? Least favorite? I'm not a big fan of lime green. I tend to like pinks, purples, and blues.
6. Do you like Winter, or do you count the days until it ends? I generally like winter. I like to be snowy though.
7. What's your favorite way to brighten your day when you're down in the dumps? Exercise, chocolate, a nap, a good book, knitting - not necessarily in that order
8. What is your favorite treat to indulge in and when your down in the dumps? Ice cream and/or chocolate
9. Do you drink coffee? Tea? Cocoa? Cocoa. Starting to get into tea a little bit
10. If you could take a vacation starting tomorrow and go anywhere for one week and money were no object, where would you go and what would you do? Italy or France. I would take a cooking class, and site-see, and NAP!
11. Do you have any allergies or aversions your pal should be aware of? Cats.
Happy Knitting!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Shrugging off Politics
Yesterday, I cast on for the sampler shrug. Why, you ask? Why, when I just cast on for the second sock and it's going to take days to reach 8" of K1P1 rib. It's simple economics really. The pattern called for two skeins of yarn, but I had to make the shrug a little bigger, because I'm 5'10", not 5'5" - and that's the size for which the pattern is written. So, I bought a third skein of yarn. And, if I don't use it, I want to return it for a refund. That means I have 60 days to get it done. And that's probably way more than enough time, but I just got nervous. I hate having random skeins of yarn that I don't know what to do with laying around. (I know, some of you are muttering blasphemy! I'm just not a very good stash builder. I like to know what my yarn is going to be used for.)
Here's the shrug so far:
In other news, DH is a little bit upset about the result of the New Hampshire primary. I'm not at all concerned, for two reasons.
1. The Bible says in Matthew 6:25-26: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
If we're commanded not to worry, I'm going to try really hard not to worry.
2. Romans 13:1 says: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."
God already knows who will be elected President. And He's got it all under HIS control. That doesn't mean that God doesn't allow us free choice, but it does mean that He chooses to allow what happens. So, of course, I'm going to vote, and I'm going to voice my opinion, and I'm going to be as active as I can be as a citizen to choose my next President. But, I'm not going to worry about it. The fate of the free world doesn't rest in my hands; it rests in God's.
Happy Knitting!
Here's the shrug so far:
In other news, DH is a little bit upset about the result of the New Hampshire primary. I'm not at all concerned, for two reasons.
1. The Bible says in Matthew 6:25-26: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
If we're commanded not to worry, I'm going to try really hard not to worry.
2. Romans 13:1 says: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."
God already knows who will be elected President. And He's got it all under HIS control. That doesn't mean that God doesn't allow us free choice, but it does mean that He chooses to allow what happens. So, of course, I'm going to vote, and I'm going to voice my opinion, and I'm going to be as active as I can be as a citizen to choose my next President. But, I'm not going to worry about it. The fate of the free world doesn't rest in my hands; it rests in God's.
Happy Knitting!
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
2nd Sock Cast On!
I did it! I cast on for sock #2, after writing 6 thank you notes (I ran out of notes, and didn't feel like going downstairs to find more.) It was much less stressful than I thought it would be. I don't know, I think the 8" of K1P1 rib really got me down before Christmas. I think the way to go might be to intermingle knitting the sock with other activities, so it doesn't bother me so much that it's such slow going.
It's supposed to be 59 degrees today in Boston. Isn't that crazy? I should take the kids outside, but we have playgroup in a little while, and they usually fall asleep on the way home.
I'm anxious to finish the sock, because I have A LOT of things I want to knit! My queue at Ravelry keeps getting longer!
It's supposed to be 59 degrees today in Boston. Isn't that crazy? I should take the kids outside, but we have playgroup in a little while, and they usually fall asleep on the way home.
I'm anxious to finish the sock, because I have A LOT of things I want to knit! My queue at Ravelry keeps getting longer!
Monday, January 7, 2008
Fingerlss Mitts - UGH!
I finished the fingerless mitts today. Actually, I finished them twice. I had a small issue with the thumbhole, and had to rip back and do it over. So, the pattern was easy, but there's just something about them with which I'm unsatisfied. Maybe I'm just mad at them for being difficult! Here's the picture:
Excuse the background, but it seems to be the best light right now.
I'm considering casting on for my second sock, but I'm also considering writing thank you notes for Christmas presents. Hmmm, maybe for every note I write I can knit a round. How long do you think it will take me to write thank you notes at that rate?
Also, I'm spending way to much time on Ravelry and not much time focusing on knitting, laundry, and oh yeah, those kids running around!
Happy Knitting!
Excuse the background, but it seems to be the best light right now.I'm considering casting on for my second sock, but I'm also considering writing thank you notes for Christmas presents. Hmmm, maybe for every note I write I can knit a round. How long do you think it will take me to write thank you notes at that rate?
Also, I'm spending way to much time on Ravelry and not much time focusing on knitting, laundry, and oh yeah, those kids running around!
Happy Knitting!
Saturday, January 5, 2008
To Homasote or Not to Homasote
DH came back from Home Depot yesterday and told me to just buy a blocking board. This tells me that the effort of dealing with the homasote far outweighs the cost of buying a board. DH likes to get the best deal possible! So, I will now be investigating blocking boards. Any suggestions? My mom has a quilting board, which she describes as being similar to an ironing board cover (a good one, with padding). I'm wondering how that would work, compared to the Sew E-Z board which I found on Joann.com, or the Space Board offered at KnitPicks. I'm interested in any suggestions or opinions.
In knitting news, I've cast on for a pair of fingerless mitts for a friend. She requested them for her birthday, and I have some washable wool to use up. I worked on them a little bit last night (I just haven't felt all that great), but they should go fast. 28 stitches, 2x2 rib - I predict the pair to be done by Thursday at the latest.
The yarn is from Ella Rae and it's an acrylic/wool blend. I used it for the stripes in the hat I made my nephew for Christmas. Incidentally, Nephew seemed to really like the hat! I found this hat in Magknits, and plan on making it for the other nephew.
I also decided on my first chart-reading lace project - the Dogwood Blossom Wrap from (where else?) 101 Designer One Skein Wonders! I'll be using the lace yarn Anne sent me in the Fall Felted Bag Swap.
Where has all this inspiration come from? Why, not feeling well, tooling around Ravelry, and pouring through my new book of course! Also, at this rate, I may not need to buy yarn until March!
Happy Knitting!
In knitting news, I've cast on for a pair of fingerless mitts for a friend. She requested them for her birthday, and I have some washable wool to use up. I worked on them a little bit last night (I just haven't felt all that great), but they should go fast. 28 stitches, 2x2 rib - I predict the pair to be done by Thursday at the latest.
The yarn is from Ella Rae and it's an acrylic/wool blend. I used it for the stripes in the hat I made my nephew for Christmas. Incidentally, Nephew seemed to really like the hat! I found this hat in Magknits, and plan on making it for the other nephew.
I also decided on my first chart-reading lace project - the Dogwood Blossom Wrap from (where else?) 101 Designer One Skein Wonders! I'll be using the lace yarn Anne sent me in the Fall Felted Bag Swap.
Where has all this inspiration come from? Why, not feeling well, tooling around Ravelry, and pouring through my new book of course! Also, at this rate, I may not need to buy yarn until March!
Happy Knitting!
A REAL FO
I finished the Cross Stitch scarf last night and wove in the ends this morning. All it needs now is some light blocking. I won't get to that for a while because I'm trying to make myself a blocking board. Anyone know where I can a hold of some homasote?
I should, obviously, be casting on for my second sock. But I promised a friend that I would make her some fingerless mitts for her birthday this month. I wasn't too excited to do the wave hand warmers again, so I searched around Ravelry. I know, the world is doing fetching, but I'm nervous about the thumb gusset and trying to get the project done quickly. I finally found this pattern, and I think that's the one I'm going to use!
Happy Knitting!
I should, obviously, be casting on for my second sock. But I promised a friend that I would make her some fingerless mitts for her birthday this month. I wasn't too excited to do the wave hand warmers again, so I searched around Ravelry. I know, the world is doing fetching, but I'm nervous about the thumb gusset and trying to get the project done quickly. I finally found this pattern, and I think that's the one I'm going to use!
Happy Knitting!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Ravelry Pictures
Yesterday, it was REALLY cold, and I didn't feel well. So, the little ones and I hunkered down inside, played with new toys (Little People, American Girl Doll, and knitting), and I finally figured out how to use my Flickr account and how to post pictures to Ravelry. Two of my projects now have pictures, and if I get really good at putting my projects up on Ravelry, more will come.
In the meantime, here's a picture of the Cross-Stitch scarf from 101 Designer One Skein Wonders. The yarn is Manos del Uruguay I bought during Linda's sale. It's also the yarn the pattern called for, but in a different colorway. The lighting for the picture isn't great, but it will have to do for now.
I was really glad to have a day just to sit around and not worry too much about anything. I made a significant increase in the length of the scarf, so I feel like I've accomplished something. I do need to stop avoiding casting on for my second sock though.
Little girl is going to Grammy's for a tea party, so little boy and I will be hitting A.C. Moore for the LB Suede. Incidentally, I happened to be flipping through the channel guide yesterday just when Knitty Gritty was on, and they were running the sampler shrug episode. Isn't that crazy? (If you don't know why it's crazy, read my last post.) It must be meant to be!
Happy Knitting!
In the meantime, here's a picture of the Cross-Stitch scarf from 101 Designer One Skein Wonders. The yarn is Manos del Uruguay I bought during Linda's sale. It's also the yarn the pattern called for, but in a different colorway. The lighting for the picture isn't great, but it will have to do for now.
I was really glad to have a day just to sit around and not worry too much about anything. I made a significant increase in the length of the scarf, so I feel like I've accomplished something. I do need to stop avoiding casting on for my second sock though. Little girl is going to Grammy's for a tea party, so little boy and I will be hitting A.C. Moore for the LB Suede. Incidentally, I happened to be flipping through the channel guide yesterday just when Knitty Gritty was on, and they were running the sampler shrug episode. Isn't that crazy? (If you don't know why it's crazy, read my last post.) It must be meant to be!
Happy Knitting!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Finished Sock and a New Swap
I finished my sock last night! I used the basic sock pattern from the book I Can't Believe I'm Knitting Socks. The instructions were very clear. My only complaint is that to finish the toe, the book says just to gather the stitches and pull tight - the way you would finish a hat. I opted to not decrease as much and use the kitchener stitch to finish the toe. It's not perfect, but I think it's pretty good for my first sock attempt. And, now I have something to add to my 2008 FO list! (Do you think it's okay to list 1 sock, even when the pair is incomplete? It's my list, so I'm going to do it!)
Anne is hosting another dishcloth swap. Check out the details here, and then go back on the 11th to sign up!
A.C. Moore has Lionbrand suede on sale this week. I saw an episode of Knitty Gritty where they did a lace sampler shrug with the LB, and I think I'm going to try it. (By the way, I think Knitty Gritty jumped the shark the day they shaved a dog, spun some yarn from it's fur, and knit the dog a coat.). I'm not sure I'm going to drag the little ones out in 4 degree weather, but I hope to get over there sometime today or tomorrow to buy the yarn.
In family news - little girl got an American Girl Bitty Baby doll for Christmas from Grandma. She is taking such good care of her! Every morning dolly gets a diaper change and gets dressed. She pals around all day with little girl, and at night dolly gets put in her pjs and tucked into bed. I'm so excited that little girl is so into her dolly! I have some pink and purple red heart acrylic in my stash, and dolly might be getting a sweater in the future. Anyone know where to find free Bitty Baby patterns?
Happy Knitting everyone!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Incomplete Sock
So, I didn't finish my sock on New Years' Eve. Instead, I took a 2 hour nap between 9-11. I also didn't work very much on it on the car ride home. Instead, I did some Sudoku puzzles, tried to nap, and worked on the cross-stitch scarf.
Here's the sock so far:
I'm might do a few more rounds tonight. We'll see. I had to work this morning, and then spent the rest of the day picking up the house and doing laundry. I can't explain what it's like to leave the house the morning after Christmas, and then return with a car full of new gifts. There was stuff EVERYWHERE! I have a lot of things to reorganize, but at least the house feels reasonably neat now.
In terms of the scarf (which I don't have a picture of at the moment) - my knitting seems to have tightened up, because the beginning is significantly wider than the rest of the scarf. I'm hoping I can fix it with blocking.
What's going on in your knitting world?
Here's the sock so far:
I'm might do a few more rounds tonight. We'll see. I had to work this morning, and then spent the rest of the day picking up the house and doing laundry. I can't explain what it's like to leave the house the morning after Christmas, and then return with a car full of new gifts. There was stuff EVERYWHERE! I have a lot of things to reorganize, but at least the house feels reasonably neat now.
In terms of the scarf (which I don't have a picture of at the moment) - my knitting seems to have tightened up, because the beginning is significantly wider than the rest of the scarf. I'm hoping I can fix it with blocking.
What's going on in your knitting world?
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