Sunday, August 12, 2007

OK, I am attempting to get caught up as it would seem the summer of nonstop working is drawing to an end. So much to talk about, patterns, Yarn Harlot, yarns, KALs, Swaps...

OK ,so I think you can see the pic below of Stephanie Pearl McPhee,the Yarn Harlot . I saw her on Aug 2 at a Borders Book Store in Burlington, MA. My final tally for extra hours worked beyond my normal 144 for the month was 156, so August 2 I thought I deserved a break. I almost didn't go as I was tired, but I am glad I did. Talk about funny, and I could relate to every anecdote, every quirk. I once attended a conference in Chicago for the field I am in, It was the North American Conference and tens of thousands of attendants from all the world, speaking in many languages were there. It was the neatest thing to know that everyone there no matter where they were from knew what I did for a living and understood it. Seeing Stephanie was very much like that on a smaller scale. So many knitters, so many Monkey Socks, the Ravelry folks were there and if I can ever figure out who she is there was a designer from Knitty I believe. I begged off having my pic done with Stephanie and apologized if that insulted her. She was humble and gracious and just very cool. Laid out on her table is the Kauin sweater which so many are working on now. If you have the opportunity to see her, I would recommend going. It was a lot of fun. I had her sign two books, one for me and one for my pal in the Virtual Vacation Swap because if she vacationed here surely she would have gone to see the Yarn Harlot. The travelling sock was there, I brought my Karen's Glove to work on. The glove received many ooohs and aahhhs. It reminded me how much I enjoy the glove and it has moved up on the WIP to become FO list.














Next, I received an email one day telling me the pattern for the July Sock Club sock from Chameleon Colorworks was not mailed with the yarn. Sock Club?? Did I sign up?? Hmmm...yes indeed I did and am I glad!! This sock is done from the toe up,new for me, and is color stranded. Now I do much in the way of multi color knitting but not a sock. hmm...how long should the floats be carried? After 8 attempts to cast on and knit the first row using the figure 8 cast on I was successful. I adore the colors. The second sock is worked in the opposite color combination if I so desire. Isn't it neat?


Speaking of sock clubs see the yarn on the top, that is the sock yarn from the Loopy Ewe Sock Club for the Fall sock. It is Claudia Handpainted Yarn in a beautiful exclusive colorway for the LE. As always, Sheri included little extras, a small accessories tote, the most adorable stitch markers,(speaking of see below) and a pattern for the yarn. I have had several deliveries since last blogging about yarn but this is some of the LE stash that has not been put away. There is Yarn Love in Flirt, Interlacements in Turkish Carpet(so regal),Knittery in Lakeside Flora, sKNITches selfstriping in Bearsdley, Dream in Color in Spring Tickle. Not pictured I also received CHerry Tree Hill in Winterberry and Wild Cherry as well as Dream in Color in Cocoa Kiss. If you have never visited the Loopy Ewe you simply must. Sheri carries the most exquisite yarns and is the nicest lady.














Stitch markers..I have been on a little frenzy buying stitch markers from an Etsy Dealer, weeones She designs stm from polymer clay and they are the most awesome little pieces of art. She is actually designing me a set of Boston themed stm for my Pal in the VVS. I have recently received these





Too too cute, don't you think?

I have joined the Wheat Ear Cable Yoke sweater KAL. This is pattern in Fall 2007 Interweave Knits and I really liked it. I find unless I join the KALS and see the reminder in the sidebar I forget what I want to make. So WEBS is having their end of summer sale and I got this worsted weight Cascade Pima Silk to make the sweater. It seemed very grey on the screen but when I received it , is much more olive drab. I do still love it but was trying to move away from the greens. Some things are just meant to be. I also believe I purchased far too much, LOL, I guess it won't hurt to have the extra to add to the length.





Interweave Knits had a hurt book book sake a few weeks back and I was fortunate enough to get these three books at a reduction.

A really talented knitter pal o mine Lorraine Condetta designs the most exquisite Fair Isle sweaters. I have been stalking her waiting for the patterns to become available as up til now you could only get them in kits from She Ewe Knits . Well, at long last, Lorraine is a sweetie, I love reading her blog and "hearing" about her dieting success, her family goings on and her of course her knitting news. She has designed a gorgeous Aran sweater which I am trying to stop drooling over. Do visit her site and enjoy the beauty of her creations.




Gosh I love Duet Sock Yarn!!! This is my latest acquisition....I was also sooooooo lucky to get into the Lucky Lurkers Sock Club!!! I missed the original sign-up but Angela hinted there would be sporadic openings through July. I got in!!!! Do visit A Swell Yarn ShopThe yarns are amazing and like a lot of my favorite yarns , Duets Yarn is offered at Loopy Ewe


  • Well now...WHAT do we have here? I waited a long time for my Sundara yarn The dealer dyes in small quantities and is very busy. But is well worth the wait. This glorious colorway is called Sweet Briar Rose. It is magnificent. The pattern I ordered came in this lovely lavendar envelope. Cool! One last entry for this blog. I have been diligently working on an Angel Tote for a lovely lady and nearing completion. This is the Intricate Stag Tote a free pattern from Interweave Knits It is made from Berroco Ultra Light Alpaca. I LOVE it!! DH is already asking for it in 4 panels in wool to be felted...what can I do but make it soon for my biggest supporter?



    So if you have made it this far you probably need a cup of coffe...thanks for reading. Tomorrow, FO pictures......





    Whoa

    OK after little sleep and much worry I got the original setup back.....in a few months I will update the design but for now familiarity is comfort

    CRAP

    I was playing arond with the layout and now suddenly it is permanent. No links to my KALS and SWAPS and FOs...crap!!!! I am going to need to figure this out aren't I???????

    Friday, August 10, 2007

    Monkey Sock Swap 3 Questionnaire

    The basics:

    Do you consider yourself a beginning sock knitter, an intermediate, or have you been doing this so long you could probably knit a pair in your sleep?

    I think I could knit in my sleep...

    What colors do you love?

    Greens ,reds, purples, orange

    Do you prefer solids or variegated?

    Either

    Do you prefer wool, cotton or acrylic yarn?

    Wool, cotton

    What colors would you never wear?
    Pastels are not among my favorite but in socks anything goes

    What are your favorite brands of yarn?
    There are a bunch of Etsy people, Koigu, Louie,CTH

    Are there any new brands you would like to try?
    Colinette Jitterbug,Scout's Swag, Moon Fiber STR

    Cookie A. Patterns:Which of her patterns have you already knit?
    MONKEYS!!!!

    Which pattern(s) would you like to knit and don’t already own?
    I am starting Potomatus, I own several of her patterns,I haven't done any of the other Knitty ones Hmmmm....I neglected to name the patters,oh silly me....I have German stocking, Thelonius, Gothic Spire and Twisted Flower. They are all quite grand. I have the yarn already for Thelonius.

    Other pertinent information:Would you be willing to have an international Monkey Pal or do you prefer one in the US?
    Canada or US if possible please

    Do you have any allergies?
    No,there are severe nut allergies within the household though
    Size 6 1/2 -7 1/2 American sizing. 9.25"long 8.5 inch circumference
    Will your knitting be exposed to smoke or animals?
    Neither

    Are you on Ravelry yet? If you don’t mind having new friends, what is your Ravelry name?
    Still waiting but now only 1799 before me :)

    Wednesday, August 08, 2007

    RAVELRY

    Found you!
    You signed up on June 19, 2007
    You are #10174 on the list.
    1970 people are ahead of you in line.
    13590 people are behind you in line.
    34% of the list has been invited so far

    Secret Pal 11 Questionnaire

    The Questionnaire
    Here are is the questionnaire for SP11. Please be sure to post it in a spot on your blog where your pal can easily find it. Since your pal will use this to help create your packages you'll want to have it posted to your blog no later than August 15th.
    1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
    Wool, bamboo, cotton Not particularly fond of 100% acrylic
    2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
    A tall Peterboro basket, a smallish basket and several needle rolls
    3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
    Almost 40 years, I was somewhat forced into it by repeated gifts of knitting kits by aunt. I am advanced
    4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
    Not currently, keep meaning to make one
    5. What's your favorite scent?
    Bakery scents
    6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
    Yes, jelly beans but would rather not receive any candy right now
    7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
    All crafts EXCEPT spinning LOL
    8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
    Elvis Costello, Roxy Music yes my computer can play music
    9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
    Favorites are pruples, reds, greens, not terribly fond of pastels
    10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
    No pets, DH and 2 DSs
    11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos
    Scarves, hats, mittens
    12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
    Anything, lately socks, and felted bags
    13. What are you knitting right now?
    Seriously I can't remember it all, the list on the sidebar of KALs I am in will give you some idea
    14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
    Sure
    15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
    No preference of straight or circular, I like metal, bamboo, plastic
    16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
    Yes to both
    17. How old is your oldest UFO?
    Hmmm....7 years old
    18. What is your favorite holiday?
    Valentine's Day
    19. Is there anything that you collect
    Mr Potato Head, Eiffel Towers, antique glass
    20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
    There are a few, I have no subscriptions
    21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
    Knitting socks on circs is still something I haven't attempted
    22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
    Yes, I am a size 6.5-7.5 medium width
    23. When is your birthday?
    February 16
    24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID?
    No i am still waiting to sign up... :(

    Tuesday, August 07, 2007

    Fall felted Bag Exchange

    This is a contest for the Fall Felted Bag Exchange The spring exchange was a trmendous amount of fun. Not sure if signups are still open...check it out...

    Signups are August 15 sign up, it is a lot of fun

    Thursday, August 02, 2007

    So Busy BUT I SAW THE YARNHARLOT!!!!

    Yes after working 76 hours in 7 days I had an evening of leisure...I saw Stephanie Pearl-McPhee. She was entertaining beyond belief. I would so recommend everyone going if they get the opportunity. I am off to bed, next three days I will be tied up with the Pan Mass Challenge. Monday I am off...will catch up, but then look at this foolishness T 16hrs W 14hrs T,F,S 12 hrs each S 9hrs...that is my schedule...Oh well ISAW THE YARN HARLOT!!!!!

    Tuesday, July 31, 2007

    Knit 1 Tea 2 Questionnaire

    OK sign ups start August 3, but I have a busy charity bike event this weekend so am posting...

    Knit 1 Tea 2 Color Swap Questionnaire
    Do you like loose tea or bags, or both – something you want to try?
    I like both

    What is your favorite kind of tea (Brand, flavor, variety, etc)?
    I received some of the Harney tea in a swap package, cinnamon and pomegranate...holy moley just so darned good!!

    Favorite color in regards to tea or one you would like to try? (black, green, red, and white) (keeping in mind that this is how this swap is set up).
    Hmmmm..I would like to try red as I have had the others

    Would you say you were a tea pot kind of person or just a hot water heater kind?
    Tea pot when time allows

    What tea accessories would you like but have never purchases for yourself?
    A tea ball thingie

    How do you prefer to be pampered? (examples: mani/pedi, bubble bath, yummy treat, etc).
    Ooooohhhh always a bubble bath, then DH gives the most amazing footrubs

    If you were a kind of yarn what would you be and why?
    I believe I would be a superwash wool, very soft, sturdy long lasting hard wearing and able to clean up nicely.

    If you had to knit/crochet baby booties, a fun fur scarf, or a fair isle sweater, which would you choose and why?
    Fair Isle sweater....I have done the others many many times. I am knitting Dale ski sweaters now as we are going to the 2010 Olympics

    What other event would make you skip a tea party? (A garden party? A book club meeting? A yoga class? Opening night for a new action thriller? etc?)
    Believe it or not when I was younger I was invited to a tea party. I had to miss it though as my Mom went into labor with baby number 10 I believe, there are 11 of us. I am number 3 but eldest daughter so had to watch the others...


    What treat would you consider essential at your tea party? (Sweet? Salty? Scones? Those petite pastry trays with a couple of all sorts of things? Little crust less sandwiches?)
    Hmmm...teatime in Bermuda always came with a tiered little pastry tray filled with a lovely assortment so I would love to replicate that.

    When buying yarn for a project how do you choose - do you buy the one called for or do you substitute?I do both equally...if it is for someone I generally use what is called for...otherwise what I have or like.

    What do you carry your knitting/crocheting in when on the go?
    Oh scroll down and check out the lovely felted Noni I have. I have a few totes from swaps I use.

    Favorite movie to watch while knitting/crocheting?
    Nothing sad as I can't see my stitches then, I love war movies, but my all time favorite is Willy Wonka

    Are you a traditional tea cup kind of person or a mug type of person? Do you care if they match?Is there anything nicer than many different teacup/saucer sets ona table? I like the teacup and saucer to match but they don't have to match other teacups and saucers.

    Favorite childhood birthday party?
    Hmmmm....no answer for this one, sorry

    Favorite type of scone and jam?
    Ooooohhh my, blueberry and blueberry or strawberry jam

    If you use candles, what is your favorite scent?
    Bakery smells

    If you could choose 3 people to have 'tea' with, who would they be and why? (famous or not, living or dead).My Dad, my boys. My Dad passed away in Jan 2005, I miss him. We spent a few years being distant and he didn't get to know DH til the last weeks. My boys, we don't seem to have much kick back and relax time together unless it is a vacation. I would enjoy having tea and conversation with them.

    You've been invited to a tea party, what 'props' will you wear (formal or casual)?
    Heehee, great question...gloves of course,a brooch at the throat of my blouse, high button shoes, A longish skirt with a petticoat.


    Any allergies/preferences you have or are willing to admit to? Not me but nuts in the family, oops family is allergic to nuts


    Anything we missed that you want your pal to know? No just have fun...

    Thursday, July 19, 2007

    Sweater Saved for Children


    Hi Lisa..
    Here by special request is the sweater mentioned below. That is my DS1 at age 3 yrs 4months...although he is hiding some og it...it has a stop sign knit in as he was a sign fanatic.

    Monday, July 16, 2007

    Sockittome Contest

    HOW I LEARNED TO KNIT
    When I was a very young girl, I want to say starting around age 5, my Dad's sister would give me a strange octagonal cardboard box each Christmas, Inside was a plastic knitting spool(with 4 prongs) two thin (maybe size 4) plastic knitting needles and three small balls of yarn. In each ball was maybe 12 feet of yarn, the needles were perhaps 8 inches long and had a molding seam up the side. I remember the seam hurt. I would just toss this gift aside, my aunt knit, she was unmarried and an old lady(to me), why would I want to do that? Then one year, maybe around the age 9 or 10, I took all the small balls of yarn I had accumulated and tied them together and rewound them. I had been watching my Mom's Mom knit for some time and reading the instructions that came in that odd octagonal cardboard box and started. I cast on several times and finally when the stitches did not fall off the needle I knit! Now need I say I was bit by the bug? But at that age, with no funding and approximately 100 feet of yarn what was I to do? I ripped and cast on, knitted and ripped and cast on. Get the picture? I finally used the yarn on the spool and made a somewhat long scarf for Barbie. I didn't knit until I was in junior high after that, I had money and would always knit or crochet during study hall at school. It was during the granny square craze and I could make one of those pullover vests during two study halls. I was so cool. Then I discovered the world of dating and of course knitted hats were a good gift.My children came into the picture many years later and a new avenue for knitting opened...up to that point nieces and nephews were the recipients. I recall a time when DS1 was at a camp and DS2 and I went to pick him up. The boys are 5 1/2 years apart in age. DS2 had on a sweater that DS1 had outgrown. DS1 came running towards me shouting( I thought words of happiness for our presence). He was shouting "Why is he wearing my sweater? I was saving that for my children". DS2 never wore another outgrown sweater and I knew my knitting was as integral in their lives as it was in mine. The boys are big now, both well over 6 feet tall and more yarn is required for their sweaters...but every so often they still request a hat or gloves or...and you can be sure that request will become the current WIP at once.I am not yet 50, soon, and have only been involved in blogs for almost a year. I was a lone knitter and now swaps and Kals are an important part of my knitting life. I love seeing what people are making and sharing knitting wealth through swaps. I am so impressed with us as a group and the charity work we are willing to do. Knitting time is precious and to give that to a cause or a person you don't know speaks volumes about our capacity to give.So, that is how I learned to knit and I am proud to be a knitter.

    Saturday, July 14, 2007

    Hogwarts Sock Swap Questionnaire 2nd Years!!

    What Hogwarts House have I been sorted into? !!
    This time I have become a Ravenclaw
    What are my foot measurements?

    Size 6 1/2 -7 1/2 American sizing. 9.25"long 8.5 inch circumference
    My three favorite sock yarns:

    Koigu,Dharmafey Cosmic Fibers(Etsy),Duets Sock Yarn
    Yarn I haven’t used but would like to try:

    Colinette Jitterbug
    Type of sock patterns I like:

    I like anything and everything...I really like Cookie A, Wild Horse
    Varigated or Solid Yarn?

    Either, both!!
    I’ve graduated to the SECOND YEAR class and we will be swapping different items this round than we did the first round. One thing remains the same —– House Socks! It was lots of fun seeing all the patterns the participates generated during the the first round of the
    Hogwarts Sock Swap.
    This is a superfun swap. You will need to sign up starting today July 14, then get a new name and sorted into a house. Do sign up and join us for a lot of fun. Sign ups for FIRST YEARS ends July 31

    Friday, July 13, 2007

    Happy Birthday

    Happy Birthday, Benjamin!!



    Small break in knitting blogging to wish my DS1 a most healthy and happy 23rd Birthday. I don't know where the time has gone but I dearly wish it would slow down. You and your brother are my pride and joy.





    Thursday, July 12, 2007

    Packages Sent Out

    My Spring Felted Bag Exchange Package has gone out. My poor Pal has been very patient waiting for it to dry before I lined it. I really like it, especially the lining, I hope she does too. She seems to be a very lovely lady and I have enjoyed knitting this for her.
    Ready to go this weekend Hogwarts Sock Swap package..woohoo. Have not shown socks since my Pal may know who I am, but will post here safely once she has received the owl mail.
    To go next weekend, Monkey socks to Round 1 participant. I have been angel knitting for her and hope she enjoys these socks. I really liked the yarn and have ordered some more
    Also very soon bag to Knitted Purse Swap2 participant, angel knitting. Have all the goodies just need to finish up the bag, another I really really like and plan on making one for me in the future,
    ITE4 bag to go out next weekend as well...really like this bag too. I guess if I didn't like them I wouldn't knit them, right? :)
    I have maybe 10 FO that are not listed on sidebar so will update that as well this weekend.

    DS1 has a bday Friday, yes Friday the 13th. He was born on his due date with a full moon in the sky. He has already achieved much, he has his Master's as you know by now. He was in school very early and skipped two grades. Both of my boys were spontaneous readers before the age of 2 and smarter than me before the age of 3 :). I will post a few pics when I update this.

    OK must finish things up here at work and rush home to sleep. Not feeling well so may not work tonight..Friday is bday day anyways...I try very hard to not work my sons bdays. Only one day in the whole year is theirs and it should be honored.

    Tuesday, July 10, 2007

    OK, I am grabbing a few moments at work to show some things I received. They are packages from SP10 and from the Spring Felted Bag Exchange. I am so lucky...look what I got!!!





    My secret pal Christine sent me these wonderful goodies in my last package. Th small plastic package contains a magnet she got whilst in Scotland. It shows the train from Harry Potter(get the theme?) and she rode it!! How cool is that? Christine has spoiled wonderfully during SP10, thank you so much for being so kind and generous

    This is the Bag Ann knitted for me...isn't it beautiful???? I have always wanted a NONI and now I have one...I have neglected my other bags since I received this and get compliments every time. It is funny to answer no to did I make it and say someone made it for me. Ann did a wondrous felting job, the bag is impeccable. The bag is a deep chocolate brown and you can see the flowers, I keep playing with them.

    Ann also included some wonderful teas, a tape measure, some yummy candies that seemed to have evaporated, heehee, the cutest little magnet and some cookie mix which I will make Friday for DS1's bday. AND do you see the yarny goodness? CTH, one of my favs, in a beautiful green combo color. Thanks so much Ann. I love everything!!
















    Sunday, July 08, 2007

    SOCKITTOME SOCK SWAP QUESTIONNAIRE

    I am going to change up my answers a bit from the norm....color choice, etc....
    What are your foot measurements? (Please give shoe size, length and circumference.)
    I wear a size 6 1/2-7 1/2 American sizing. 9 1/2 " long 8 1/2" around instep
    How long have you been knitting? How would you rate your experience? (Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced.)
    Let's see, approximately 40 years, there were starts amd stops but the last 5 years has been nonstop. I am definitely advanced. I have done some professional store knitting, sample knitting, etc.
    What is your favorite color? Your least favorite color?

    Always green and purple, but for this swap I would adore something burgundy, red or blue, sapphire blue. Least favorite is pastels, I don't hate them just not my favs but in socks evrything is great.
    Do you have a favorite fiber? What type?

    I have really enjoyed the feel of knitting with bamboo yarns, I Love Noro Silk garden, tons of Etsy dealer yarns.
    Do you have any allergies to certain fibers?

    Not a one
    Do you have an Amazon, or other type of, wishlist? (If so, provide the link.)
    What techniques, if any, would you like to learn?

    I think knitting socks on circs, but I adore dpn knitting so haven't learned yet
    Do you have a sweet tooth? What are your favorite snacks?

    Unfortunately yes.....I have just started a serious diet so no sweets please. I love teas, fruity, floral.
    What is your family situation? (Children, Husband, Pets...etc.)

    One DH, 2 magnificent DSs,one precious GF of DS1 and soon GF of DN will be living with us. Ages 23,22,18,17 and DH and me.
    Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Metal, plastic or wood?

    Both, I adore KnitPicks dpns, mad about retro plastic needles, love bamboo
    Besides socks, what are your favorite items to knit?

    Aran sweaters, felted bags, Dale sweaters
    Is there a pattern, (sock or otherwise), that you are dying to try?

    I love Cookie A patterns, have a few, Noni bags, just received one in a swap, gorgeous..entrelac knitting
    Do you like to read? What are you reading currently?

    Beside me right now is "Lord of the Rings" 50th anniversary edition, "Son of a Witch","A Year with John Paul 2" to name a few
    Do you collect music? (On an iPod or MP3 player.)

    No
    What kind of music do you listen to?

    Elvis Costello, Bare Naked Ladies, Celtic music,
    Is there anything you collect?

    Glassware, dishes, Fenton, Eiffel Towers, mr Potato head
    What are your hobbies, aside from knitting?

    Travel, Photography, skiing, biking
    Are you participating in any other swaps or knit alongs?

    Too many but many are winding up
    Do you have a favorite scent?

    Cookie smells, fruity smells
    When is your birthday? (You don't have to add the year if you don't want to, LOL

    February 16

    Friday, July 06, 2007

    Mini PRGE Questionnaire

    1. Why are you punk?
    Hmmm..I am not sure, but I know I march by my own beat, and seldom follow the crowd
    2. What are your five favorite things? (these don't have to be knit related)
    Listening to my family laugh, rain(horrendous rain),rollercoasters, movies that make me cry, the Wizard of Oz
    3. What are your three favorite things that you have made with knitting/crochet?
    Aran sweater for my Dad(it was mostly acrylic but Mom gave it back to me when eh passed),DH's kilt hose for our wedding, sweaters for my sons when they were infants
    4. What five things would you love to see in a swap box someday?
    Oh my, I have been very very blessed in swaps, but perhaps some nice teacup/saucers, patterns from other countries, kitchy souvenirs
    5. What are your three favorite yarns?
    Noro silk garden, Fearless Fibers, Sock Duets Mini
    What are your three least favorite yarns?
    Acrylic, Acrylic, Acrylic
    6. What are your five favorite delicacies?
    Jelly beans, nice teas, scones, jams,cookies
    7. What are your three favorite guilty pleasures?
    Chocolate, cocoa, cheesecake
    8. What would you like your pal to know that is not covered here?
    I am so in awe of all the knitters spoiling each other, praying for one another, supporting one another....I am grateful to be part of this community. I am proud to be a knitter.

    Thursday, July 05, 2007

    Quick Blog

    Sorry all, I have a mega home thing going on...not bad for us....just very involved and complicated. SO probably 5-7 days and I will update properly

    Thursday, June 21, 2007

    UPDATES






    OK, so I will try and get this posted before naptime. Back to work tonight. Let's see...yarn.

    I received this lovely package as we were leaving for the airport two weeks ago. I brought it with me but didn't manage to start the lovely sock.




    This was my Hogwarts Sock Swap Kit from Carrie aka Dharmafey. She is a glorious Etsy seller. I have purchased much of her Cosmic Fibers yarns. They are wonderful colorways. The bag she made is a wonderful Polly Juice print on one side and stars on the other. The yarn is dyed from onion skins and she got it from another dyer. The pattern is a lovely lace pattern, I also received KP dpns, yea! Really pretty stitch markers, bookplates and a lovely note. I was well spoiled that is for sure.

    I also received my Hufflepuff socks from the Hogwarts Sock Swap . My partner kept her identity very secret, Nymphadora Tonks turned out to be Mandy . She, amazingly enough, knit my socks from yarn from Carrie!!! Isn't that terrific? Mandy sent along some beautiful CP bamboo dpns,a Cookie A pattern(woohoo), Regia yarn, tea, jelly beans(I know the package looks diminished,it arrived that way honest,perhaps the owl ate the jelly beans?)Can you see the stitch markers? FANCY!! A lovely note written on yellow and black fabricy paper. The teeny tiniest little HP sock on a keychain. Mandy sent the pattern for that and knit the sock from the same yarn.













    I wasn't too worried about no yarn in Ireland as I knew this was on its way to me..









    I purchased 10 skeins of NORO Silk Garden from one of the terrific knitters on another KAL I am in(Dale) and she included an 11th skein!!! Thanks so much Brigitte! And is it my luck that the new Knitty has this pattern for SG?

    I also received these two yarns...the TV YARN is from my past spoilee JANA. She has since opened a dyeing studio and has got herself a tidy little business going. She is an ETSY dealer and is just starting to send her yarn to dealers. It is terrific yarn that I had the pleasure of sample knitting with. This yarn is Grey's Anatomy, how could I resist? I have never seen the show but working in an ER, heehee. Also the brown Cafe Au Lait yarn is from Etsy dealer SeeJayne Knit. Glorious, no?
    I will wait til next week to update finished objects and works in progress as I want to post some Ireland pics:
    SO here are some of the yarn shops that were closed:





    Here is an assortment of pics of the gang and interesting places.Thanks so much for looking!















    Wednesday, June 20, 2007

    Still On Ireland Time

    I knew the 5 hour difference would come into play but....I went to sleep 1am my time and have been up since 4 am my time....guess I should do some knitting. Speaking of...I finshed the second sock of a pair, first sock of a pair x2 , one leg of Socks for Soldiers, the straps of a bag and one third of a sweater back whilst away. It is tough to plan what to knit as Ireland is stricter on getting needles through. I purchased the most perculiar needles before leaving for the trip. They are plastic and unbreakable and the most unusual colors. They took getting used to and seemed to go slow but within a few hours they were very entertaining. I was using an orange set in a red/orange sock I was knitting, very novel to coordinate your needles..lol. There were 5 of us with 4 cameras and I guesstimate 4-5 GB of photos were shot. Much downloading and weeding through. We had such a great time. The boys bought "Irish hats" and DS1 had a beard anyways, but DS2, 17, forgot his razor. I think it should be a law that men have facial hair..heehee...anyways. Man, they looked terrific with their hats and beards. My boys are grown up and wonderful people to hang out with. DS1GF is such a doll. She is wonderful to my sons and DH and me and I am so happy she is part of our family. We didn't want to give her back to her family. DH is 6'6", a big football player sized man, we were "upgraded" to a fullsize van, and OPAL?? It was a stick shift which I was willing to drive but he could not fit anywhere else in the van, he had to drive without sneakers on his size 16eeee feet. The way back seat was a jump seat and once luggage was packed hardly room for anyone. DS2 and I switched off that seat and front passenger. He is 6'4", I am 5'9". Poor little 5"1" GF sat behind DH as only her little legs would fit. DS2 sat behind passenger. If you were the jumpseat passenger you could not see out the left side windows as suitcases obscured your veiw and on the curvy crazy roads you were attacked by the suitcases...it was still a ball though.
    I know much talk no pics, this is what I can manage for now. Perhaps later tonight as I go back to work Thursday night.

    Tuesday, June 19, 2007

    Knitter's Virtual Vacation Questionnaire

    I Have lived in Massachusetts all my life. I live just south of Boston, currently, but grew up just north of Boston.

    1. If you could visit any state in the US, which would it be and why?

    Hmmm....visit? I am thinking right now I would love to visit Washington state...I am actually thinking of it for next year's main family vacation. I just like the temperature and the architecture. DH did a 6week bike trip through the area many years ago and loved it.

    2. If you could visit any country in the world, other than your own, which would it be and why?

    Well, I just returned hours ago from two weeks in Ireland, I have been there before and to France, England, Canada, bermuda...I think I would truly love to see the Scandinavian countries. There always look so clean and crisp...

    3. Have you ever driven across several states/providence/countries?

    Indeed, we have driven to D.C., Pennsylvania,New York, Florida, Georgia, Ohio.

    4. Have you ever visited someplace you consider exotic? Where was it?

    I don't believe I have, perhaps when we took the Eurostar train from London to Paris. It travels under the Channel and we were in a first class car, 5 course meal, little lamps on the table, very romantic.....
    5. What was your favorite "travel" vacation? Why?
    I think it may have been when we drove to Orlando in 21 hours, we spent a week or 9 days there with the boys and then their father flew down. We(DH,DSs and I) picked him at the airport and left him with the boys. They stayed a few more days and flew home. DH and I drove home by way of Cape May and a few other stops. It was a terrific vacation.
    6. Have you ever played tourist in your own home city/state (if international, country)? Explain.
    Yes, every few years I would do the Freedom Trail, tracing a lot of history in Boston. I adore Boston and never mind being a tourist.
    8. What's your favorite type of yarn?
    If you checked out my blog you would think sock yarn, and I guess that is true lately. But honestly I love Aran yarn, Noro yarn, yes yes Noro yarn, both Kureyon and Silk garden. I adore silk garden.
    9. What's your least favorite type of yarn?
    Hmm.....acrylic has it's uses but not for me lately...
    10. What items do you like to knit/crochet?
    Anything, everything, but I am in a sock mania lately.
    11. What do you pack, knit/crochet wise when you go on vacation?
    Well, for Ireland I packed a bag, three no four different socks and a sweater.
    12. What other crafts do you do/would like to do other than Knit/Crochet?
    Everything, quilting, sewing,etc
    13. Are you allergic to anything? (Yarn wise or treat wise)
    Not me, but DS has major nut allergies
    14. What is your favorite color? Least Favorite?
    I love green, purple,burgundy....least favorite is pastels
    15. Sweet or Savory (Treat not personality)?
    Savory, sweet :)
    16. Anything else we are forgetting to ask that you think your partner desperately needs to know?
    Have fun...

    Over 3000 kilometers and no Yarn!

    So DH figures we drove from south of Boston out past Denver in our two weeks in Ireland. Here is a brief synopsis for now as my plane landed a mere 4 hours ago.
    Landed in Shannon drove to Cork
    Blarney castle, DS2, DH, GF of DS1 kissed the stone.
    Drove from Cork to Bray, County Wicklow....
    Wicklow Jail, Avoca(place where Ballykissangel was set)Fitzgerald's Pub
    Drove from Bray to Carlingford, County Louth
    Stayed at a farmhouse for a week, various day trips...
    Belfast, Giants Causeway(as far north as you go before dropping into the ocean)Royal Crowne Pub,Dublin,Trinity College(Book of Kells)we attended a very wonderful reading of the award winning book for 2007 at Project...more later,Belfast Zoo-HUGE
    Drove from Carlingford to Bubeg County Donegal(again as far nothwest before falling into ocean
    Here DH stopped at the Kilcarra Mill, they don't sell their yarn but the studio there did, HOWever they were closed for the weekend as they were renovating, we found a few other yarn stores, CLOSED, OUT OF BUSINESS, the few we did venture into had less yarn than me and what was there was acrylic
    Drove from Bunbeg to Galway
    Drove from Galway to Bunratty
    So we did much much more than that, but for now I can't think. I will do a proper post in a few dats. But the money not spent on yarn was spent on Belleek and Tara, and still remains for some local purchases. Of course I came home to several packages of yarn from swaps, etsy, ebay, etc. So I don't feel I missed anything.
    PICS to follow....

    Friday, June 15, 2007

    Blogging From Dublin

    NO YARN we have been up and down the east coast and nothing, I don't know where they hide it, off to Donegal tomorrow so her's hoping