Diamonds & Purls

Hi

2011-03-31T16:01:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted here. Okay, a LOOONNNNGGG while! I've been going through some major transitions and changes in my life over the last 2+ years and just didn't feel like writing. So, I didn't.

But, I feel like it's time to write again. So stay tuned. More to come!

And now, a word from our sponsor...

2009-01-15T14:37:00.003-05:00

Okay,so they aren't really my sponsor, I just believe in Grafton Fiber's Darn Pretty Needles (DPNs) and their customer service is unbeatable! They are having a FABULOUS sale on DPNs ... these normally retail for $30-35 per set. You can currently get them straight from Grafton Fibers (the manufacturer) for $9.99 per set!!!

I ordered the Size 0-3 set last Wednesday, they were shipped on Thursday and I had them in my hot little hands on Saturday!

They've even come out with a new color - Cinammon Spice - be sure to check them out!

And now, back to our regularly scheduled program.

Just trying to help ...

2008-12-12T13:38:00.001-05:00

You can read all about it here.

Call The Man

2008-11-25T01:41:00.001-05:00

Ever have one of these kinds of days??? ...

Sorry

2008-11-22T23:31:00.003-05:00

I should have known NBC would pull the plug on the video I had below. It was the sketch from SNL with Justin Timberlake as one of Beyonce's back up dancers ... it was hysterical!

We will return to our regularly scheduled knitting blog soon ... promise!

ETA: Even though NBC pulled the video from YouTube, you can check it out here ...

Hahaha

2008-11-17T19:45:00.002-05:00

It's long (about 5 minutes), but worth every second!

Long and Deep

2008-10-11T05:38:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a while ... a LOOOONNNNGGGG while ... but I'm here. So much has happened since I stopped blogging. I've just needed some time to get my head around it all. I guess you could say I'm ready for re-entry into the atmosphere.

I'll try to give you the Readers Digest Abridged Version of happenings and goings on here at the House of Bling since I last chatted with you in ... OMG ... April!! I know ... bad, bad blogger!

I had my surgery on May 21st and everything went BEAUTIFULLY. The relief from pain, numbness, muscle spasms and tingling fingers was almost immediate. I've been healing well and life is good again ... physically.

I was out of work on medical leave for 2 and a half weeks. Approximately three and a half hours after my return to work, I was fired. Dude - my coffee hadn't even gotten cold yet. But you know what ... it was truly a blessing. I'd been quite unhappy ... okay, flat-out miserable at my job for quite some time (a year). Because I had no sick time left and hadn't accrued any vacation time, I couldn't even interview for a new job anywhere. Simply put, I was trapped and had no options. I felt like I couldn't make any changes or move, so the good Lord moved me. As Friend's mother said, "Sometimes when we feel like we can't move, the Lord kicks us in the ass and moves us."

Upon my arrival at home on that life-changing day, I had such a sense of relief and peace. It was amazing.

I was able to spend the summer at home with my girls. I've continued looking for a full-time job, but it just isn't happening. I'm submitting 2-5 resumes each week and barely getting calls for interviews. The problem? I'm over qualified. Companies are looking for entry-level admins (a.k.a. secretaries) and are only willing to pay entry-level salaries/wages. I'm far from entry-level. I've been an executive level admin for over 20 years. Companies want my skills and experience ... they just don't want to pay for it. I even applied for a part-time position two weeks ago. I even got an interview for said position. But in the end, they offered it to someone else. I'm even ready and willing to take a paycut for a position with benefits. In fact, I interviewed for one a few weeks ago that would have been an almost $10k paycut. They offered it to someone else because they couldn't believe I wouldn't have continued looking for higher-paying opportunity elsewhere. I can understand their concern. But at this point, I didn't consider what they were offering as a negative. Quite the opposite - it was an opportunity.

Believe it or not, I'm not stressed about this. The Lord has always provided for me and I know He'll see me through this. I have some money coming in ... I'm doing some work for an attorney and I'm working my Mary Kay business. Up until now I've just been doing the Mary Kay on a part-time, almost hobby level. But, I've been doing alot of praying about this and I know I need to work my MK biz as if it's my full-time job. It's the only thing I've got going right now and I need to make it work.

This means I have to give it serious time instead of just chatting about it or mentioning it to people in passing. Last weekend I worked a couple of events (the Dog Day Festival and the State Fair) for the sole purpose of getting leads to grow my business. Starting Monday, I'll be on the phone booking those leads as facials and/or classes.

My kids, especially DD#3, love me being here when they get off the school bus every day. And I love it too. This is also giving me the chance to volunteer at each of their schools, read to DD#3's class once a month, and even go read to Niece#2's class as a Mystery Reader once a month (my 1st time reading to her class is coming up in a couple of weeks ... I'm really excited about it and can't wait to see her precious little face when I walk into her class!). I couldn't do any of these things when I was working outside the home.

After my surgery, it took some time for my knitting mojo to return. I think a combination of the change in my knitting tension/gauge and the pain I was in before surgery took its toll on me. Knitting became a bit of a struggle and I wasn't feeling the knitting goddess's love. After losing my job, depression added to it so I still wasn't knitting much. In August I went on a road trip with my mom, my uncle, his 6 yo son and DD#3 to visit family in Decatur, Alabama. I started feeling the knitterly love on that trip. I'm sure the mini yarn crawl with my mom and finishing a pair of socks helped! Since then, I've almost completed a 2nd pair of socks (I'm on the toe decreases of sock #2) and picked Thermal back up.

On many levels (job, knitting, finances in general, spiritually, relationship-wise), the last few months have been a time of major evaluation and contemplation for me. In less than six months time, I've had some pretty major changes:

I've finally resolved physical problems (my neck) that I've been dealing with for 9 years
I left a job that was killing me (physically and emotionally)
I ended a 10-month relationship that should have ended 8 months earlier
I've grown still and quiet so I can hear God's voice and grow closer to Him
I've learned to trust the little voice inside, which I now know to be God's voice
I've re-evaluated my financial needs and desires
I'm letting go of material possessions that have been weighing me down and creating chaos in my life, my head and my heart (no, this does not include yarn ... sorry!)

I'm on a new path. I have no idea where it's leading, but I know it's not about the destination ... it's about the journey. I'm not the same person I was 6 months ago. My priorities have changed. My passion and desires have changed. These changes are not the result of one moment or an epiphany, but about all the moments.

I can't wait to see where this journey takes me ...

GNO*

2008-07-24T14:32:00.003-05:00

* GNO = Girls Night Out

Here are some photos from the last time we did this. We had a blast!

Why, you may ask, am I sharing these pictures with you now? Because we're having another tonight and I can't wait!!! After a yummy dinner at O'Charley's, we'll be going to see the ultimate BFF movie of the summer, of my life, actually ... Mamma Mia! The 2 friends in these photos and I are TOTALLY Donna, Tanya and Rosie.

Friend and I saw the play earlier this year (I saw it a few years ago too) and I love it so much. The movie is fabulous! My kids know all the words to the soundtrack. I have the soundtrack from the play AND from the movie. And I may have Abba's Greatest Hits on CD somewhere too ::grins sheepishly:: And this is one movie I'll be buying on DVD when it's available.

If you haven't seen the movie, you've got to go as soon as possible. Run, don't walk, to the nearest theater. And share it with your BFF!

Psst ...

2008-06-30T20:26:00.002-05:00

I'm here but like most of my favorite TV shows, on hiatus for a little.

I'll be back ... promise.

Is anybody there?

2008-04-08T22:15:00.002-05:00

I guess I've kept you waiting long enough for an update. Sorry.

I had 2 epidural injections in February but unfortunately, they didn't provide the relief the docs were hoping for.

I met with the orthopaedist today and learned that my situation is actually worse than I first thought. There are actually THREE herniated cervical (in my neck as compared to lumbar which would be lower back) discs. The C7 is the worst and pressing on the C7 nerve (as I mentioned before). The C6 is running a close second to the C7 - however, the herniation/bulge is pressing against my spinal cord. The C5 has a very minor herniation. Minor, but nonetheless there.

I have a few phone calls to make to find out exactly what is covered by my insurance (do I have a co-pay or co-insurance?) This is critical and could mean the difference between me having to pay a few hundred dollars ... or several thousand ... because I'm going to need surgery to take care of this. They're going to do an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) on 2 discs (C7 and C6).

The doc wants to do this toward the end of May (yikes!). He assures me it will alleviate most of the pain in my neck, the numbness in my hand and the spasms/cramps in my arm.

I have been knitting, albeit not as much as I used to. I'm going on a knitting retreat this weekend with the Knitting Guild and I can't wait!!!!! My mom is going and so is Friend. I think we're going to have a great time - we'll be at Graves Mountain Lodge. It's beautiful up there. I definitely need this get away.

Long Awaited Photos

2008-02-12T17:45:00.000-05:00

I'm hoping to give a health update either Wednesday or Thursday. In the meantime, I thought I'd share some photos of recent knitting here at the Casa de Bling.

First up, the scarf I knit for the other Beth's sister Carrie. This was knit with Berroco Glace and Chinchilla. It was a fun knit, but kind of tedious ... all that garter stitch! Glad it's done ... nevermind that I bought the yarn to do one for myself in a different colorway ::grins::

Up next is the baby blanket I knit for a co-worker. He and his wife are expecting their first baby ... a little girl! Also for your viewing pleasure is a close up of the stitch pattern. This is actually a very soft lavender color - doesn't show very well in the photos.

I leave you with the current SIPs (Socks In Progress). This is the 1st shipment from the 2008 Rockin Sock Club. The name of this pattern is Serendipity. I'm totally loving it and hope to have them finished this weekend!

Ouch!

2008-01-24T05:45:00.000-05:00

The last couple of weeks have been an adventure. Unfortunately, not an adventure I've enjoyed.

I haven't said anything about this previously, but it's really affecting my day-to-day life. So much so that I've been out of work for the last 2 weeks.

I've been suffering with chronic muscle spasms for a few years now, thanks to a car accident in 1999. It's usually managable, but unfortunately I have flare ups sometimes. The end of October I suffered a major flare up ... my neck muscles became very inflamed and painful. I started going to physical therapy and was actually getting some relief. We were making progress - my therapist was able to break up some of the knots (spasms) and get the muscles to start relaxing.

One morning two weeks ago I was still in bed and stretched, with my arms above my head. I felt something pop in my neck. Major pain ensued and there was numbness in my left upper arm and hand. After two weeks of bed rest, major drugs, multiple doctor visits, consults with orthopaedists, and numerous tests (x-rays, an EMG and an MRI), it has been determined that I have a herniated disk (C6-C7) and it is pressing on the C7 nerve, which is the one that runs down my left arm.

I'm waiting to see a specialist for an epidural cortisone injection. There's no guarantee that this will work, but I'm willing to try anything before I agree to surgery.

Unfortunately the pain and numbness have seriously affected my knitting. My knitting mojo has gone bye bye. I'm ready to get back to my real life and my knitting.

Please think happy healing thoughts and pray for me. I can use all the help I can get right now.

SIPJ Day to the Rescue

2008-01-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

You have NO idea how much I need this - won't you join me?!?!

New Years Eve 2007

2007-12-31T23:59:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again ... a glance back and then looking to the future. As you may recall, I didn't really set any "goals" for 2007. My hopes were to keep knitting and keep learning ... and more hand-knit socks.

I definitely kept on knitting. And the FOs for 2007, in no particular order:

Fiddlehead Scarf (Morehouse Farms)
Bella Scarf (Knit Picks)
2 Ponchettes ('07 PatternADay calendar)
Zud Hat (Dulaan Project)
2 Baby Hats
2 Bunny Blanket Buddies (Lion Brand)
Fur-Cuffed Stocking (Lion Brand)
Mistake Rib Scarf (Monet)
Baby Hoodie (Knitting Pure & Simple)
2 Multi-Directional Scarves
Soleil (Knitty)
Glace / Chinchilla Scarf (Knitting Sisters, Williamsburg VA)

And knowing my love for hand-knit socks, I'm sure you'll agree that they get their own category:

Jaywalkers in Austermann Step (MagKnits)
Baby Cable Socks in Regia Bamboo (Sensational Knitted Socks)
Inside Out Socks in STR Med Weight (Feb 2007 STR Rockin' Sock Club)
Herringbone Eyelet Socks in Cascade Fixation (Finally Waking Up)
Grasshopper Socks in STR Silkie (Apr 2007 STR Rockin' Sock Club)
Lightweight Stockinette Socks in KP Dancing (Knitting Pure & Simple)
Solstice Slip in STR Light Weight (June 2007 STR Rockin' Sock Club)
Lenore Socks in STR (October 2007 STR Rockin' Sock Club)

I had an unofficial goal of a pair of socks per month, but didn't quite make it. That's okay ... there's always 2008!

There was lots of learning going on too. A couple of things I've previously learned about knitting that still hold true: It won't knit itself - there are no knitting gnomes that will finish projects for me - I actually have to pick up the needles and knit. And it's just yarn.

Here's a look at some of the things I know now that I didn't know last year:

Short row toe up socks
Short row heel
Backward loop cast on
Crochet
Sewn bind off
Aran Sweater from the Top Down

There may be one or two others that I can't think of right now, but not too shabby, if I do say so myself!

I also continued ~~taking over the world one knitter at a time~~ sharing the joy and relaxation of knitting by teaching others to knit. I helped bring a ~~hooker~~ crocheter to the knitting side; I encouraged DD#2 to continue to learn new techniques (she's working on a pair of baby socks ... I'm SO proud!); and I taught a newbie to knit via prayer shawls.

Once again I wish the same things for you as I did last year: As the ball drops and we count down the seconds to the New Year, I hope you each find peace, happiness, abundance, joyful knitting and more hand-knit socks. Happy New Year!

Hello ... is this thing on?

2007-12-19T12:54:00.001-05:00

I'm here ... I'm there ... I'm everywhere. Or at least it feels that way sometimes.

Much has been happening at the Casa de Bling. Again, in no particular order, I'll try to get you up to speed.

~ My lifestyle changes continue. I'm down a total of 20 pounds. When I started this venture, I was wearing a size 14 pants and they were getting too tight. Today, I'm wearing an 8!!!! I'm so proud of myself. I'm not fanatical about what I eat ... I eat what I want and what I like. I'm just careful. I've stopped drinking a latte every morning for breakfast. I've also cut WAY BACK on my McD's Large Sweet Tea consumption (I was drinking 1 or 2 of those each day - Yikes!). Because of scheduling issues, I haven't made it it a Zumba class yet, but I still want to go. I'm hoping to get into that after the 1st of the year.

~ My sis-in-law and I went to Vegas last month. All I can say is .... WOW!!!!! We had such a good time. For one thing, it was the 1st time she and I have gone anywhere just the two of us. We really enjoyed traveling together and spending time with each other. I promise another post soon with details about what we did and what we saw ... well ... as many details as I can share. It was Vegas ... and what happens in Vegas ... well, you know the rest.

~ I've been knitting. I have 3 WIPs on the needles right now: the Lenore Socks and 2 scarves. I know you aren't going to believe this, but ... there are no SSCPs this year! I hear the collective gasp. I know ... how can I not be a slave to the SSCP deadline? I've got to tell you, it's kind of a relief.

I know this is a short post and it's been so long since I've posted, but I've got to get back to getting ready for the holidays. Christmas is, after all, less than a week away. And even without SSCP knitting, there's still lots to do!

Bad Blogger

2007-11-03T02:30:00.000-05:00

There's been so much happening lately that I simply haven't had time to blog ... I'm sure you noticed. Sorry.

I'll try to catch you up right quick - in no particular order:

~ I'm still working on my lifestyle changes (see the ticker above?) Friend and I had a discussion and since we don't diet or exercise ("We don't jog, Christina."), yet we wanted to lose weight and just generally get in shape, we decided to make some lifestyle changes. Since I had previous success with Weight Watchers, I'm doing that again. I've also started walking for 10-15 minutes, twice a day. I'm anxious to move more, so I'm going to start taking a Zumba class. I'm down 14 pounds and one pants size!

~ The countdown I mentioned in my last post is still happening. Now I'm only 13 days away from .... seeing Eddie Izzard .... live .... in VEGAS BABY!!!!! I've been trying to go to Las Vegas for years. The closest I ever got was 8 years ago, but unfortunately, that trip ended in a fatal car accident outside of L.A. .... I never made it to Vegas.

When I found out Eddie would be performing there, I called my sis-in-law {Hi Carrie ::waving wildly::} and told her, we started crunching numbers to see if we could go. Unfortunately, I just couldn't pull it off. A couple of days later, Carrie informed me that this trip would be a gift from her and my brother! Is that not the awesomest thing ever!?!?!?! To say that they made me cry (at work, no less) is an understatement. We're also going to see O. I can't wait!!!!!

~ I've met someone! Yes, I've met a new man. We've been dating for a couple of months now. He's wonderful .... handsome .... smart .... great sense of humor .... kind and thoughtful .... and so much more. I'm so fortunate and thankful to have him in my life.

~ There's even been some knitting here at the House of Bling. I'm currently working on the newest shipment from the Socks that Rock Rockin Sock Club. And, I'm very sorry to say, there's only 1 more shipment this year ::pouting:: As is my habit, I'll get some pictures posted in the next few days.

So, as I continue counting down the days, I leave you with this:

45 Days & Counting ...

2007-10-02T22:43:00.000-05:00

Any ideas?

Pause for Pix

2007-08-19T12:15:00.001-05:00

I just want to share a couple of long overdue photos.

Here are the beautiful Solstice Slip socks from the STR Rockin' Sock Club.

And this is the lace on Soleil. I'm almost at the divide for the neckline. I was hoping to have this finished this weekend, but yesterday was DD#1's 16th birthday, so we were a little busy.

Ciao for now!

A Little Poem For You

2007-08-14T10:05:00.000-05:00

I found this beautiful summer poem and thought it might help make your day. It did me, and it's very well written. ENJOY!

"Summer"

a poem by

Abigail Elizabeth McIntyre

Damn!

It's hot!

Quiet Schmiet

2007-08-06T22:06:00.000-05:00

I know things have been kind of quiet here at the House of Bling. I've been working a fair amount of overtime (for which I don't get paid ... gotta love being exempt!), busy with the kids and just all around tired and worn out! By the time I get home most evenings, I just want to sleep. I don't even have the energy to pick up the knitting needles.

I had started WeightWatchers online a month ago and did pretty well the first couple of weeks (down 5 pounds!). I was even doing the stationary bike or treadmill a couple of times a week. But then I went on a trip to Michigan for a wedding and the whole eating right thing kinda fell to the wayside. That said, I didn't gain any of the 5 pounds back (yeah me!!!). But now I'm trying to get back on track.

I joined the local knitting guild and signed up for their upcoming Arans from the Top-Down workshop with Beth Brown Reinsel - I'm totally excited and hoping that this will help get the knitting mojo flowing again. This definitely fits right in with my desire to continue learning to techniques and stuff.

Last night I finished my Solstice Slip socks (the June installment of the Rockin' Sock Club). Today I finished a scarf that I had set aside MONTHS ago to work on socks. But it's done now and I'm proud of that. Can't wait for the weather to turn cold again so I can wear it ... Cashmerino Chunky ... yummmm!

I think I'm going to pick Soleil back up and get through it while I'm waiting on the August Rockin' Sock Club shipment. I'd REALLY like to get Soleil finished while it's still warm out so I can wear it, but we'll see.

I'll try to get some FO-tos up in the next couple of days. Until then ...

The End of an Era

2007-07-22T23:51:00.000-05:00

After visiting Diagon Alley on Friday night, I picked up my 3 DD's, my SIL and Niece#1 and went to the 2nd Harry Potter Party of the evening. We were each sorted by the Sorting Hat:

We saw Lucius Malfoy:

And had to watch out for the branches of the Whomping Willow:

Even Moaning Myrtle showed up for this party:

I know I didn't post this Saturday as I had intended. DD#1 came home with my copy of Book 7, which I promptly began to read. I finished it a few hours ago. No spoilers here .... I'll just say I'm quite pleased!

Party Potter-style

2007-07-21T00:18:00.000-05:00

Whew - what a loooooonnnnngggg day. Don't get me wrong, I've had longer (like last weekend, but that's a whole other post).

After a full day at work, I raced home to change and headed off to the first Harry Potter Party of the evening. Folks, I went to Diagon Alley - and what a good time I had! Blogless Lou and I drank butter beer (very tasty!) at The Leaky Cauldron:

There was dancing

and Hagrid and Professor Trelawny were there:

There was even an L-B sighting ... but the always elusive L-B once again avoided the camera. I could have sworn she was standing next to Hagrid when I snapped his picture, but I must have missed her - drat!

Mad-Eye Moody and Sirius Black were hanging out:

And George and Fred Weasley were selling their wares:

Delores Umbridge even partied with us - she's a brave one. Showing up here after the way she treated everyone!

After this party, I picked up my girls, Niece #1 and SIL and we headed to the 2nd Harry Potter Party of the night. My dad, DD#1 and Niece#1 are in line getting our copies of Book 7 and I want to be ready to start reading when DD#1 gets home tomorrow morning. So, I'm going to head to bed now. I'll tell you about the 2nd party of the night and share those photos tomorrow.

Until then ... mischief managed!

I got nothing ...

2007-07-07T22:40:00.000-05:00

... so I give you PONG! Enjoy!

I'm Bad

2007-07-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

I've been such a bad blogger ... or more specifically, a bad knit blogger.

I've not done a very good job as a resurrector of UFOs - I've frogged one and turned a few into FOs, but I haven't done a good job tracking them.

I've not been feeling the knitterly love lately either. I think my mojo is off a bit. I have 3 WIPs that are so close to being finished, but what did I do last week? Cast on for new socks!

Not just any socks, mind you ... the latest installment of the Socks That Rock Rockin Sock Club. The colorway is beautiful, vibrant and just ... stunning. The pattern looks like it's going to be a fun knit. And I simply couldn't resist - I turned one hank into a yarn cake and then one yarn cake became two so I can knit the socks in tandem.

I really need to finish two WIPs as they're baby gifts and the baby was born last month. They are both almost nearly finished - shouldn't take but an evening to knock them both out. I'm determined to have them done this weekend - no excuses. Then I can focus solely on the new socks guilt free!

Wish me luck!

Hello?

2007-06-25T01:46:00.000-05:00

I'm still here ...

Busy at work ...

Busy with the kids ...

Knitting when I can ...

Blogging even less ...

Will write more soon.

Socks & Squares

2007-06-03T14:41:00.000-05:00

I've been kinda slack on the knitting pictures, but that's certainly not an indication of how much knitting's been happening here at the House of Bling.

First, I present my finished Rockin Sock Club April shipment: Knee-high to a Grasshopper (but I did the shorter version instead of knee-highs) in their new Silkie in the Walking on the Wild Tide colorway.

Oops - I haven't snapped a photo of the finished socks. I'll take a picture and post it later.

Second, these are the finished Herringbone Eyelet socks that I finished last week:

I simply love the way that pattern looks. This was my first project with Cascade Fixation and I enjoyed it. These were fun to knit.

Yesterday while shop sitting at the From The Heart shop, I finished these Lightweight Stockinette socks using Dancing from Knit Picks:
This is the 2nd pair I've knit using this pattern and this yarn together. I did a pair a couple of years ago for my sis-in-law for Christmas.

I've decided to take a teeny hiatus from sock knitting and make a few afghan squares for the Hokie Healing project.

One is done and the 2nd on the needles. I'm hoping to do a couple more this week so I can get them mailed to Blacksburg.

I'm not sure if I'll start another pair of socks before the June Rockin Sock Club shipment arrives, but knowing me, I will. But for now, back to the Hokie Squares.

The wait is over

2007-05-24T22:23:00.000-05:00

I didn't have to wait until midnight to see the newest Pirates of the Caribbean 3 afterall. The movie opened tonight at 8pm and I was there!

It was EXCELLENT! I totally enjoyed it and can't wait to see it on the big screen a couple of more times.

I won't spoil it for anyone. I'll just say ... you've GOT to go see it! Savvy?

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-20T23:40:00.000-05:00

I know Mother's Day was last week, but I just have to share.

The day started with the girls fixing me a special breakfast of Special K cereal. It was special because I didn't have to fix it ... good enough for me!

Next, the girls gave me a new bead for my Pandora bracelet. They gave me the August birthstone since that's the month I became a mom.

I'll admit, I picked my gift and told DD#1 exactly what to get and where to go to get it. You do what you gotta do, right?!?

DD#3 gave me a coupon book with coupons good for things like cleaning her room, rubbing my back and snuggling with me ... the best gifts ever!

DD#2 then presented me with a poem she had written for me. As if this wasn't enough, she had the honor of reading it during the program her grade presented Thursday night at the PTA meeting. She received a wonderful response from the audience and brought me, and many others, to tears.

Here is her poem:

MY MOTHER

My mother's really pretty,

My mother's really sweet.

We play lots of fun games,

But it's she I cannot beat.

My mother's really smart.

My mother's funny too.

It is a miracle that I was born from you.

My mother's really good.

My mother's really kind.

I'm so happy that she is really mine.

A Knitting Meme

2007-05-15T23:19:00.000-05:00

I haven't seen / done a good meme in a while, so I thought it was time. I've seen this one in a few places around blogland.

Wow - I'm surprised at how many of these I've done - knitting things, not memes.

~:~:~:~:~

Mark with bold the things you have ever knit, with italics the ones you plan to do sometime, and leave the rest.

Afghan
I-cord
Garter stitch
Knitting with metal wire
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Hat
Knitting with silk
Moebius band knitting
Participating in a KAL
Sweater
Drop stitch patterns
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (=modular knitting)
Twisted stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two end knitting
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Cardigan
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with circular needles
Knitting with your own handspun yarn
Slippers
Graffiti knitting (knitting items on, or to be left on the street)
Continental knitting
Designing knitted garments
Cable stitch patterns (incl. Aran)
Lace patterns
Publishing a knitting book
Scarf
Teaching a child to knit
American/English knitting (as opposed to continental)
Knitting to make money
Button holes
Knitting with alpaca
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cosies...)
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items)on magic loop
Olympic knitting
Knitting with someone else's handspun yarn
Knitting with dpns
Holiday related knitting
Teach a male how to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living
Knitting with cotton
Knitting smocking
Dying yarn
Steeks
Knitting art
Knitting two socks on two circulars simultaneously
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener BO
Purses/bags
Knitting with beads
Swatching
Long Tail CO
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Machine knitting
Knitting with self patterning/self striping/variegating yarn
Stuffed toys
Baby items
Knitting with cashmere
Darning
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Intarsia
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Freeform knitting
Short rows
Cuffs/fingerless mits/armwarmers
Pillows
Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine
Rug
Knitting on a loom
Thrummed knitting
Knitting a gift
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Hair accessories
Knitting in public

The Haul

2007-05-08T23:29:00.000-05:00

In my last post, I mentioned the fondling of new yarn on Saturday ... Friend and I went to the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival. This was Friend's first time - but I think it's safe to say it won't be her last!

It was great to run into a few friends. Hi Lauren, Lissa, Jane, Bess, Jen and Martha ::waving madly:: And it was nice to meet Jane's sister. And I'm sorry I missed a few other friends.

I only went over my budget by about $20, but I'm VERY happy with my acquisitions. I present .... everything!

And now I'll break it down into categories and tell you what it is.

Here we have The Sock Yarn - only 6 pairs worth - starting in the upper right corner and going clockwise:

RaggSocks kit from Morehouse (this colorway is not shown on their website), Wool/Bamboo blend from Ellens 1/2 Pint Farm, Strapa2 from Seaport Yarn, Lifestyle from Uncommon Threads, Superwash Merino Sock Yarn from Spirit Trail Fiberworks, and Trekking XXL (colorway 126) also from Uncommon Threads. BTW - be sure to check out Spirit Trails new Sock Clubs!

And this is I think some rayon - I think - I dunno - I'm really not positive - I really don't care. All I know is it is gorgeous and shiny and only 6 dollars a skein (over 250 yards each). I saw this and the word "Clapotis" just popped into my head. I dunno why. I figure I'll make a shorter clap for my mom and one for myself, since I already have a really long one. But I can't decide which one I want to give up. Maybe they'll both be for me. Again, I dunno.

And finally the Pink Ribbon Scarf, also from Morehouse, in the elusive pink/pink colorway (not shown on their website).

Apparently I'm on a sock kick. But that's okay 'cause I'm still lovin' me some hand-knit socks!

The only thing we didn't get that we set out for was a deep fried Twinkie. Apparently that vendor didn't make it to the festival afterall. But we had one of the obscenely ginormous absolutely delish eclairs!

Did you go to MdS&W? What didja get? Come on, flash your MdS&W stash!

Quick Recap

2007-05-07T03:07:00.000-05:00

Thursday - Queen Elizabeth was in town

Friday - Dinner at the parentals

Saturday - Roadtrip with Friend

Sunday - Fondled new yarn and dinner at the parentals

Monday - Migraine

~~Monday~~ Tuesday - Photos of yummy fibery goodness acquired on Saturday

SP10 & STR2

2007-05-02T20:10:00.000-05:00

Can I just say ... I have the BESTEST Secret Pal 10 EVER!!!!!! I'm such a bad blogger, because I didn't post these pictures when I got my 1st package last week, but here they are.

Wouldja just look at all those patterns?!?! My SP sent 6 sock patterns she had found on the internet (Monkey, Rolling Thunder, Kew, Diamante {all from Knitty}, Creeping Vines Socks, and Diamond Lace Socks), a pattern for a felted bag (Little Slip of a Thing), and the pattern for a beautiful scarf to use for the luscious skein of yarn. There's also an Addi needle gauge and the cutest felt key chain.

I don't know if you can read it, so I'll tell you what it is ... a skein of Scarlet Fleece Silk & Ivory from Holly Spring Homespun. This stuff is heavenly - I'll admit there's been some pretty heavy petting of the yarn since I received it!

And I received another little goodie package from my SP this week. The embroidery flosses are in the prettiest spring colors. I really need to work on some cross stitch again and this is the perfect motivation to do so.

And finally, I leave you with a progress shot of my current STR Sock Club socks

April 30th

2007-04-30T18:25:00.000-05:00

Quick Post

2007-04-29T23:59:00.000-05:00

I didn't manage to post over the weekened due to this:

DD#1 had a very special dance to attend ... prom! The day started bright and early ... she had a hair appointment at 8am and the day didn't end until 4am since the kids went to the after-prom party. They had a great time!

Here are a few Rockin Sock Club photos - completely loving this yarn and pattern:

UFOs? What UFOs?

2007-04-26T23:52:00.000-05:00

Oh my - I've been so busy with socks ... particularly new socks ... more specifically Socks That Rock ... that I haven't paid any attention to UFOs lately. I've got to get back to the UFOs. Soon, my pretties!

So why have I been so distracted by socks, you ask ... I'll tell you!

In today's mail I received the April shipment for the STR Rockin Sock Club. I love this yarn. I heart this stuff so much that I think I want to marry it ... can you marry yarn?!?

I was so excited to wind it (after the kids went to bed and I ate my dinner and I watched Grey's Anatomy) that I completely forgot to take a photo of it before winding. Oh well ... let's see if I can "borrow" a photo from someone (thanks Ute!). Here ya go:

Is that not the most scrumptious yarn you've ever seen?! And it feels just as yummy ... it's 81% merino and 19% tussah silk!!!!

This is a BRAND NEW YARN for Blue Moon Fiber Arts - only Rockin Sock Club members have it right now! It's called Silkie and sorry, but it's not available to the public yet. Talk about exclusivity and a membership perk.

Tomorrow I'll try to share photos of the beautiful yarn cakes I wound - and maybe even a quick progress shot.

Okay - now I'm off to try this backward loop cast on - I've never done this one before. Wish me luck!

Happy Monday

2007-04-23T11:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone for crossing everything you could cross and for your good thoughts about DD#1's condition. It worked ... Ex-DH was able to get us an appointment with the neurologist on Friday. We don't have any answers yet, but they are at least trying to figure out what's going on. We have a plan and hopefully something will show up that explains these episodes. Thankfully, she hasn't had another.

I owe you a few photos so here ya go:

These are the socks I finished last week (?). They are made of Regia Bamboo ... LOVE IT!!! The pattern is the Baby Cable Rib from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlotte Schurch. I can't wait to do more patterns from that book and I'm hoping to get her next book, More Sensational Knitted Socks.

Of course I had to get a new pair of socks on the needles right away ... I present Cascade Fixation in the Herringbone Eyelet pattern. These are fun to knit and I've gotten many compliments on them. These picture were taken Friday night ... I did a fair amount of knitting Saturday and have turned the heel on one sock and am on the heel flap of the other.

I didn't get much knitting done yesterday because I took a crochet workshop and practised that when I got home. Here's my first attempt:

Not too shabby, if I do say! The charity group I knit with, From the Heart, offered a workshop yesterday and I decided what the heck, I'd give it a try. There were about 30 ladies there - some had never held a crochet hook before, some with more experience. I knew how to chain stitch, but that was about it. I enjoyed it and am glad I learned to crochet. One of the ladies asked if I would convert from knitting ... NEVER! But it'll be nice to know how to crochet and even add crocheted edges to some of my items.

Crochet does go faster than knitting, so maybe I'll use that for some of my charity work ... crocheted hats and such. We'll see. Regardless, it's great to learn new things.

VA Tech Tragedy Touches Girl Scouts

2007-04-20T21:37:00.000-05:00

I have just learned the sad news that Girl Scout troop leader Linda Granata (Virginia Skyline Council) lost her husband in the shootings at Virginia Tech, where he was a professor. The Granatas' 11-year-old daughter is a Junior Girl Scout. Please help lift this fellow Girl Scout family up with your prayers.

~:~:~:~:~

Kevin Granata, 45, an engineering science and mechanics professor who was married and had three children. He had served in the military and later conducted orthopedic research in hospitals before going to Virginia Tech, where he and his students researched muscle and reflex response and robotics.

Department chief Ishwar Puri said Granata was one of the top five biomechanics researchers in the country, working on movement dynamics in cerebral palsy.

Engineering professor Demetri Telionis said Granata was successful, but also kind. "With so many research projects and graduate students, he still found time to spend with his family and he coached his children in many sports and extracurricular activities," Telionis said. "He was a wonderful family man. We will all miss him dearly."

Granata was known worldwide for his research into how muscles accomplish complicated movements, said Stefan Duma, another engineering professor.

"He liked to ask the big questions," Duma said. "When we had students defending their Ph.D., and he kept asking 'Did we have the total solution?' He was really interested in whether we answered the big questions. That's really a sign of a great scientist."

Trying to catch our breath

2007-04-18T02:29:00.000-05:00

DD#1 had another episode of hyperventilating this afternoon at school. I received a call from the school nurse that DD was in the clinic. I literally grabbed my purse and left my desk. Didn't shut down the computer or anything. Told my boss on my way out what was going on.

By the time I got to school to pick her up, the nurse had gotten DD's breathing almost back to normal, which subsequently got her pulse rate down (it was 160 bpm while she was hyperventilating - should be around 120ish).

I took her to the pediatrician and they have no explanation. The doc was concerned that, among other things, it's happened twice in less than a week and there is no obvious "trigger". The doc referred us to another pediatric neuroligist ... whose first available appointment is August 13th!!!!!!!! Neither DD nor I can wait that long ... fortunately my ex-DH works for the facility where the neurologist's practice is so he's trying to get us an earlier appointment. We should know tomorrow when they can see DD.

Please keep your fingers (and knitting needles) crossed that it'll be very soon. We're all terribly afraid this will keep happening.

Tragic

2007-04-17T00:14:00.000-05:00

Virginia Tech - April 16, 2007

Not MIA ... not really

2007-04-15T18:05:00.000-05:00

It's been an odd couple of weeks here at the Casa de Bling. I've wanted to do nothing more than knit, yet when I sit down, I don't wan't to knit ::gasp:: I'm not sure what's up with this little funk, but it had better pass quickly.

I'm still in recovery mode ... I had to take DD#1 to the emergency room Thursday after work. She was hyperventilating and had a very rapid heart beat and we weren't sure what was going on. Long story short, after an overnight stay here (CJW Hospital) and numerous tests,
they still couldn't determine what had happened or why or if it would happen again. Ugh! I'm going to be on the phone over the next few days with the pediatrician and another neurologist to try to get to the bottom of it all.

DD#1 is fine now, but what a lengthy, exhausting experience it was for everyone.

I did actually pick the knitting up while at the hospital - 28 hours of sitting in a hospital room, waiting and worrying will do that to you. In fact, I have 2 FOs to show for it. I'll try to get photos of those and some that I owe you for other items I've been working on posted in the next day or so.

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T09:19:00.000-05:00

What can I say, it's still my favorite Easter picture. Enjoy the day!

Socks

2007-03-30T22:29:00.000-05:00

I did it ... I finished the socks! I'm so excited - my first, okay, only FO for March - and I knit them, start to finish in 24 days! And I wasn't even an obsessed knitting fool while doing these socks. I took my time and totally enjoyed the yarn and pattern.

I finished sock#2 Thursday evening while watching October Road. I immediately wove the ends in and put them on my feet. Positively yummy - yup - just as I had suspected. I'll share some FO pix over the weekend.

~:~:~:~:~

I'm participating in SecretPal 10 and we're having a contest ... so of course I have to play along! Our hostess asked us to share our fave knitting accessory.

Mine would be the coolest metal needle thingie I bought from Woolworks Ltd. back before Christmas. Here's a photo of it in action:

I first read about these over at the Harlot's place (surely you don't need a link?!?). When I called the shop, I asked if they had the metal sock needle holder thingies ... did she know what I was talking about? The lovely woman on the phone, Paula, said "Yup, close enough, we got 'em!"

These have truly been a god-send for my socks ... no more dropped stitches while the sock is hanging out in my knitting bag, no more needles poking me through the bag, no more lost needles. Everything is right where it should be. And it really impresses people when I pull it out of my knitting bag ... who could ask for more in a cool / fave knitting accessory?!?!

P.S. Cheer for Georgetown, m'kay?!?

This just in ...

2007-03-28T23:23:00.000-05:00

... Sunday, April 1st is the next International Pajama Day (IPJD)! I'm aquiver with anticipation!!!

Saturday is the Monument Avenue 10k, which Friend and I will be walking in again. Yes, we're walking it ... I have a strict don't-run-unless-being-chased policy. We've been so busy getting in shape for it ... NOT! We haven't walked the first step in preparation. Lord, we're gonna be hurtin'! So - IPJD will be very welcome on Sunday.

The kids are also getting in on the action ... DD#2 and DD#3 are going to participate in the First Market Mile Kids Run. They're really excited about it.

Should be a fun day for all!

BTW - I finished sock#1 of the STR Inside Out socks in Monsoon - the pair should be completed in the next day or so ... Woo Hoo!!!!!

Still rockin' ...

2007-03-26T23:16:00.000-05:00

... these socks - did I mention how much I love 'em? Here's sock#1:

Sock#2 is only 1 pattern repeat (20 rows) shorter. A couple of more evenings of knitting and these babies will be finito!

And look at those stitches and that color and ...

... and they feel scrumptious on.

I don't have any FOs for March yet because I put the 2 WIPs I was working on (Regia socks, mistake rib scarf) aside when this came in and I haven't put this down since. I really hope to finish these this week so I'll have one FO for the month.

Oh - and check this out (click to make it bigger):

I'm still in 1st place as we head into the Semi Finals on Saturday - Woo Hoo!!!!

Okay - back to the needles or no March FO for me!

As the Heel Turns

2007-03-20T23:49:00.000-05:00

The further I get in this pattern, the more I like it! I did the heel of sock#1 tonight ... my 1st short-row heel. Lovin' it!!!!

And it fits ... like a glove ... er ... sock. Whatever - it fits beautifully. As if it were MADE for MY foot - go figure!

Get your trailer here

2007-03-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

The Happenings

2007-03-17T22:32:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been over a week since my last post. There has been much happening ...

The knitting of the socks:

These are the STR Rockin Sock Club "Inside Out" socks in the Monsoon colorway ... still lovin 'em. This pattern has had numerous 1sts for me ... 1st sock of the '07 Rockin Sock Club (okay sorry, that one was SO obvious), 1st toe-up, 1st using different sized needles for different parts, 1st short row toe. And did I mention how much I heart the way these socks are striping?!? Yummy!

The viewing of the art:

This is the artwork of DD#2 (purpley circular abstract) and DD#3 (bluish diamondy-triangular abstract). Their art teacher at school selected these pieces to exhibit at a local mall. Artwork from students all over the county was on display - each school was represented. We went to the opening and took lots of pictures. Daddy and Grandma came to see the exhibit too. The girls were so excited!

The meeting of the little girls:

This is Caroline and Betsy - the BEAUTIFUL daughters of friend and fellow knitter Maggi. Betsy just came into Maggi and Caroline's life in December, when they traveled to China to adopt her. She's such a happy baby - they make a beautiful family! Hi Girls!!!!

And the watching of the hoops:

This is my bracket. I'm holding my own against the guys at work. I finished the 1st round in 1st place, and halfway into the 2nd round I'm in 2nd place. Not bad for the girl that doesn't know jack about basketball! And before you ask, no, I didn't pick my teams based on the color of their uniforms. I don't even know what color any of them wear. BTW - I won the bracket last year!

But not so much of the posting lately ... sorry.

Countdown

2007-03-09T16:36:00.000-05:00

This blog's countdown ticker has been commandeered by the crew of the Black Pearl.

Savvy?

More on Socks

2007-03-08T10:16:00.000-05:00

And here's the progress after a few days ... I haven't done as much as I had hoped because I haven't been feeling the best, but I'm feeling much better now, so hopefully more knitting will happen!

I'm casting on for Sock#2 today with Friend - she didn't get her yarn until yesterday and I waited to be able to walk her through the cast on.

And because I know enquiring minds want to know: I'm knitting the medium size using US1 for the toe, heel and leg and US0 for the foot. Although, I'm considering doing the leg on US2. I haven't decided yet. I'll let you know.

To answer a few questions ...

From Mary: Are the purl bumps on the outside of the toe? Yes they are - the toe is knit in garter stitch! Totally cool!!!

From Courtney: Are you having trouble with the toe looking bulbous as the ribbing pulls the sock in tighter? I don't think so - it's slightly larger than the foot, but that's because a) the foot is knit on smaller needles; and b) the foot is ribbed which naturally draws the fabric in. I was also thinking that because I'm using #0 and #1 vs. #1 and #2 that you're using, that may have something to do with it too ... the difference in size from #0 (2mm) to #1 (2.25mm) is not as big as #1 (2.25mm) to #2 (2.75mm) needles. It's only a quarter mm difference on the smaller needles and a half mm on the bigger ones. Maybe - I don't know. I'm just thinking out loud here.

And to Joanne in Blustery Western New York: By all means, write me if you have any questions. I don't claim to have all the answers ::grins:: But I'm sure we can figure them out together!

Hi Rho!!! Hi Wannietta!!! Didn't want to leave you ladies out! Thanks for stopping by and the girls loved the compliments. And Rho, love the new blog name.

In other sock news ... DD#2 finished her first sock! I'll post a photo when she's completed the pair. I actually kitchenered the toe for her, but she'll do the kitchenering on Sock#2 herself. I had her cast on for Sock#2 immediately ... no SecondSockSyndrome here!

Ciao for now!

At last ...

2007-03-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

... I've been wanting to post these all weekend. Presenting Socks That Rock in the new Monsoon colorway (mediumweight):
The yarn is beautiful shades of greens, grays and browns. The name Monsoon is very apropos.

This is the 1st yarn cake I wound - all 6 ozs of it:

And here are the two 3oz yarn cakes that will turn into a yummy pair of socks:

And here are my yarn-winding helpers (they're fresh out of the bathtub). They love when I get the swift and ball winder out. And heaven forbid they realize I wound yarn without them!

And I just couldn't help myself ... I cast on ... here is the beginning of my 1st ever toe-up sock:
(The color is more grayish and less purple-ish ... this is a difficult colorway to photograph.) I've totally loved the beginning of this sock so far. Knock on wood ... I got it right the first time! Woo Hoo!!!!!

It's beautiful ...

2007-03-04T20:31:00.000-05:00

... and I want to share it with you all. When I got home from work Friday, the 1st shipment of the 2007 Socks That Rock Sock Club was waiting for me.

I've got pictures ready to show, but Friend hasn't received hers yet and she'll kill me if I post it here. So, once she receives hers, I'll post photos of mine.

I just finished winding the yarn into 2 center-pull yarn cakes. Why two? So I can knit both socks at the same time. I have an older kitchen scale and it worked just fine! (I still want a new digital scale, but that can wait a little longer.) I weighed the yarn then wound it into one big yarn cake. Then I started winding a smaller yarn cake, weighing it as I went. When it hit the 3oz mark, I cut the yarn and wound the second 3 oz yarn cake. Now, I'm set to start.

The pattern (called Inside Out) for this yarn fits right in with my desire to continue learning new techniques ... these socks are toe-up. Friend admitted she's a little scared, but as I told her, no worries - we're in this together!

Hopefully sometime Monday afternoon (after mail delivery at work since that's where Friend's yarn is being shipped) I can post the photos. Until then ...

Secret Pal 10

2007-02-26T22:58:00.001-05:00

If you aren't my Secret Pal, feel free to skip this post as it may bore you senseless. Otherwise, feel free to read on ... you may learn something new about yours truly!

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Wow - this is a hard one to answer. There are so many yarns that I like knitting with. I guess my faves are anything soft and pretty colors. I definitely use Lion Brand and some Caron Simply Soft - but it has to be ... you know ... soft. I can't stand squeaky acrylics that leave that coating/film on my fingers - I know you know what I'm talking about!

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I have a 3-drawer unit that holds the circulars, straights and Denise's. My DPNs live in a pencil box - the plastic kind that has a little drawer that slides out.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I had been knitting off and on for over 21 years and then 4 years ago, I got serious about it and haven't looked back since. I learned on my own with books, the internet and some help from friends. I consider myself an advanced intermediate knitter, but only because there are still many techniques I'd like to learn and try.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? Not really.

5. What's your favorite scent? My "signature" fragrance is Angel by Thierry Mugler. For candles and stuff like that I like Yankee Candle's Juicy Grapefruit and Mistletoe (in the winter). I also like Pier One's Ginger Tea.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy? Anything milk chocolate is great, but throw in some toffee ... even better!

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin? I enjoy scrapbooking, cross-stitch, a little sewing, making wreaths and beaded jewelry and stitch markers. I haven't gotten in to spinning yet because I know my addictive personality will take over and I'll own like 11 spindles, 8 wheels and multiple fleeces within 3 weeks and ... sorry ... got a little carried away. What was the question? Oh yeah - no, I don't spin.

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) I listen to mostly Top 40/Pop, some Rap and R&B, Rock/Metal and all things Yanni. And yes, we are MP3 friendly.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand? My favorite color is purple, but I don't wear it. Clothing-wise I wear mostly black and more brown lately, but I also like blues and pinks. I'm what they call a "summer or cool" color person. Orange or green ... not so much.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? Single mom with 3 daughters (15, 10 and 6 yo). We have two pet turtles - Teenie and Tiny. They're not very big.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? Scarves - definitely yes, hats - no, mittens - not really and ponchos - no (but I've knit and worn a ponchette).

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? I've knit a little bit of everything so far (baby blankets, scarves, ponchos, face cloths, hats, mittens and many others), but I'd have to say I'm addicted to socks and totally LOVE knitting them.

13. What are you knitting right now? 2 pairs of socks, 2 scarves and several baby hat/sock sets.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? But of course!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I typically knit on circulars rather than straights, using bamboo, Denise's or Addi Turbos. With regards to DPNs, I almost exclusively use short ones.

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

17. How old is your oldest UFO? 3 years old ::gasp:: I can't believe I just admitted that. I need to work on that during the 2007 UFO Resurrection.

18. What is your favorite holiday? The entire "holiday" season from Thanksgiving through Epiphany.

19. Is there anything that you collect? Nativities, sheep, all things Eddie Izzard. Oh! And yarn.

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I'm always open to new fibers and patterns. I'm currently eyeing some ebony Sox Stix. I have subscriptions to Vogue Knitting and Interweave Knits.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Colorwork, toe-up socks, more sweaters (I say that like I've knit a bunch ... just one so far).

22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements? But of course I knit socks! I wear a size 8 shoe, my foot measures 9.25" from heel to toe.

23. When is your birthday? Cancercrips in the house!!! July 11. And since I'm sure Friend will bring it up sooner rather than later ... yes, I'll be the big 40 this year!!! I'll let you in on a little secret ... I'm not celebrating my birthday this year ... I'm celebrating my birthMONTH. Yup - the whole month of July will be all about my Double-Twentieth. WooHoo!!!!!

Show & Tell Time

2007-02-19T18:50:00.000-05:00

As promised yesterday, I've got some photos to share.

This is the little baby hat and sock set I finished last week for a co-worker's baby shower gift. I think they turned out great.

And this is the yummy Chocolate Scarf I'm working on:

I know the picture seems a little dark, but that's just how rich the color of this yarn is. Totally lickable, I tell ya!

Here's DD#2 working on ... her FIRST SOCK!!!!!! (Can you tell I'm a proud mama?!?!)

And here are my latest socks:

This is the Baby Cable Rib pattern from Charlene Schurch's Sensational Knitted Socks. I really love this book. This is the first pattern I've done from it, but I can tell there will be more. This was a gift from one of my Secret Pals ... Thanks again Emy!!!!

I'm knitting both socks at the same time and really enjoying it so far. As you can see from 2nd the photo, I've just started the leg/pattern on one sock.

I may have to put these down for a few days as I have one or two more baby gifts to knit for upcoming baby showers at work ... there must be something in the water ... 4 babys due in the next few months ... remind me to stay away from the water!

It's a Small Small World

2007-02-18T23:47:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the kids and I journeyed to Williamsburg to meet up with Friend and do a little stash enhancement. We went to Knitting Sisters. This was my first visit there, but of course Friend is a regular since she lives down there.

I picked up some Karabella Aurora 8 in the beautiful, rich, makes-me-wanna-lick-it Chocolate Brown colorway #6. This is such an incredible shade. I'm making a mistake rib scarf to wear with my new tan suede coat. I also scored some sock yarn to do a pair for myself and a pair for DD#2.

While at Knitting Sisters, I ran into another visiting knitter ... Robin was there. I'm standing there perusing the yarn and overhear the woman at the counter talking about MaryJane at Unraveled. Well of course, that's one of my fave LYSs (and the one closest to home) so she caught my attention. Robin knows another of my knitting buds ... Mary. Just goes to show what a small knitting world we live in.

Tomorrow I hope to share a photo or two of a recent FO as well as my WIPs. There will also be work on February's UFO ... a pair of socks that have been on the needles for months.

I'm walking - Jaywalking, that is

2007-02-12T22:42:00.000-05:00

I just finished the Jaywalkers!! Can I get a Woo and a Hoo?!?!

I love these socks. I haven't taken them off since I finished weaving in the ends. These are scrumptious. And they're ALMOST identical twins. They're just a smidge off, but not enough that any non-knitters will notice.

~ Specs ~

Cast on: 1/16/07
Finished: 2/12/07
Yarn: Austermann Step Colorway #08
Needles: US #0

I've just cast on for another Zud Hat - I did 3 of these for SSCPs and this one is a Valentines Day gift. I'm also working on a baby hat and pair of socks for a co-workers baby shower Friday afternoon. And I'm ready to cast on another pair of socks. This pair will be knit two at a time a la the Stitches of Violet way.

Finally, I leave you with this - I'm sure you've seen it around Blogland, but it still strikes me as funny:

January's UFO Sightings

2007-02-06T21:32:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I forgot to do my January post for the UFO Resurrection. I swear ... if my head weren't attached ...

This is a sock I was working on last year and after pulling it out of the UFO pile, I just wasn't feeling it.

Now you see it:

Now you don't:

2007 UFO Resurrection Standings:
January UFO - frogged!

HEY!!!

2007-02-04T10:02:00.000-05:00

Do you know what day it is?

No, not that ...

It's Super International Pajama Day!!!

Story (and hopefully photos) at 11 ... or sometime later today.

I can't wait!!!

2007-02-03T01:00:00.000-05:00

I've pre-ordered mine ... have you?

Running the Gamut

2007-01-25T22:01:00.000-05:00

After all the crying during last week's episode of Grey's, I thought they wouldn't do it to me again this week. I was SO wrong. During the last 10 minutes, I cried, laughed out loud, gasped in shock and surprise ... not once ... not twice ... but THREE frigging times!!!!

What a phenomenal show. This show just gets better and better. If you're a fan too, what was your fave thing tonight or what surprised you the most? Do tell ... inquiring minds want to know.

If you didn't get to see it tonight, you can catch it here.

January UFO?

2007-01-24T09:53:00.000-05:00

Oops, time's almost up and I haven't resurrected a UFO for the month. I'll have to take a good hard look at the stalled projects to determine which I can finish within the next few days. This means I have to dig out all the knitting bags that contain UFOs.

Uh oh ... this could take the rest of the month!

A Whole Lotta Knittin'

2007-01-21T23:07:00.000-05:00

... going on!

I've been working away on my Jaywalkers. I'm using Austermann Step. Can I just say ... I'm loving this yarn! Okay, I'll admit, I work very hard to knit only with yarns I like. Why knit with crap yarn if I don't have to, know what I mean?

This pattern is working up great, too. It's easily memorized. I was hoping to start on Sock #2 this weekend, but didn't get as much knitting done as I had planned.

We had Girl Scouts (need to order any cookies ... let me know!) Friday evening. Saturday I ran errands and went to a party with a friend. Today we had my godson's little brother's 2nd birthday party and then dinner at the parentals'. A very full weekend that didn't leave as much uninterrupted knitting time as I'd like. But alas, I'll have a little time in the morning ... due to the weather, the kids will be going to school 2 hours late. We've got some frozen stuff mixed with rain falling from the sky and it's all freezing up now that it's cold and dark out. Maybe I'll make some french toast for breakfast ... yummm!

I mentioned a whole lotta knittin ... well I wasn't the only one working on a project. DD#2 is working on a hat (oops, forgot to take a picture) and DD#3 (shown at right) is also working on her SECOND hat using the Knifty Knitter she got for Christmas.

She finished one hat already, but it was a smidge short for her. So she gave it to her cousin. It's not this neon in real life.

In that picture of her, she's using a Dora the Explorer tote bag to keep her knitting stuff in but it's just not big enough for the Knifty Knitter looms, so we bought a plain canvas tote and made it not so plain:

Must See TV

2007-01-18T22:06:00.000-05:00

OMG - Did you watch Grey's Anatomy tonight? I'm still crying. I couldn't even knit. For the first half of the show, I just sat there with my knitting in my hands.

If you didn't see it on TV, you can watch the entire episode here.

Holidaze?

2007-01-16T21:59:00.000-05:00

It's great working in an industry that recognizes federal holidays, including Martin Luther King Day. However, yesterday wasn't much of a holiday/day off for me ... I ended up with the mother of all migraines that had me up until the wee hours of this morning (3am) and was still kicking my ~~butt~~ head today. I didn't even feel up to knitting - can you believe that?!?!?! Thankfully, I'm feeling MUCH better now, so I guess Wednesday will be my Monday.

Friend and I both finished our 2-person Ponchette knit-along on Sunday. Neither of us have worn them yet. But since the weather is finally becoming seasonal, I'm sure we'll wear them soon ... just not on the same day. Since we work together, that might be weird.

She started a pair of Jaywalkers yesterday. I dug out a skein of Austermann Step and the pattern ... I think we'll do another 2-person knit-along. She just doesn't know it yet. Heehee.

UFO Sightings

2007-01-14T09:25:00.000-05:00

I'm not usually one to join Knit-A-Longs (KAL) or challenges. In fact, in all my years of knitting, I think I've only done 4 - Soleil Along, 2006 Knitting Olympics, Who Wouldn't Love a Hand-knit Gift and Socktoberfest 2005. But I've found a challenge to join for 2007 ... The UFO Resurrection of 2007!

Here are The Rules straight from Kat with a K's blog:

1. Each month in 2007, find a UFO (unfinished object). This makes a total of twelve (12) for the year. You do not need to have a list of all twelve at the beginning of the year - you can go month by month if you'd like. (I plan to.)

2. You have two options for that UFO:
a. Work on it. You don't have to finish it that month, if it's something big, but it must be added into your rotation of "active" projects. A token row or two does not count. ;-)
b. Frog it. If you don't want to work on it anymore, rip it out and move on.

3. Post on your blog each month (or comment if you don't have a blog) about the project you're resurrecting.

4. Everyone who finishes will be entered into a prize drawing. And even if you don't win anything, you'll have twelve fewer languishing projects making you feel guilty!

I have a NUMBER of items in need of some finishing or frogging and apparently, this is the year to take action. I guess this is the proverbial "poo or get off the pot".

The first KAL/challenge I joined was for the Soleil and guess what ... it's a UFO. How's that for irony?!?!

FO Photo

2007-01-12T09:50:00.000-05:00

I've got a couple of FO's, but not many FO photos. I know, bad blogger!

Here is a shot of my most recent FO. This is the ponchette from the 2007 Knitting Pattern-A-Day Calendar. I received the calendar for Christmas. This is the 3rd year I've gotten it and I love them!

I used 2 skeins Noro Iro, which is what's called for in the pattern. Can I just say ... I totally LOVE this thing. I've already worn it twice. It was an incredibly easy knit and it is comfy to wear. I received many compliments on it.

I love this piece so much, that I'm knitting myself a second one. Friend is knitting one for herself too.

Can you have a 2-person knit-along?

Sloppy Joe

2007-01-08T10:15:00.000-05:00

I promised to tell you why the quote (When defeat is inevitable, it is wisest to yield.) was so appropriate for Saturday.

I am not the most organized mom around. But I manage. I know that things would be easier if I were more organized, but that's another post.

I managed to go to the grocery store Thursday evening and actually get the groceries needed for the next few days meals. I had a menu/plan and I was set! Friday night we grabbed something quick because we didn't get home until after 8pm due to Girl Scouts. So, Saturday I was going to make sloppy joes, tater tots and corn. This wasn't the first time for this particular meal. It's virtually a staple both at my house and my parents' house.

The girls asked what was for dinner as we were driving home. I told them the menu and darn if EVERY ONE of them didn't complain and say they don't like sloppy joes. WHAT?!?!?!?! DD#1 says she's never liked them, she just eats them because we told her too. DD#2 doesn't like it on bread (how else would one eat sloppy joes?). She just wants the meat. DD#3 doesn't like them anymore either. Now mind you, they had just eaten this meal a week ago. And they all ate everything on their plates.

Well, my patience were running a little thin so I basically told them this wasn't Waffle House and they were going to eat what I fixed. If DD#2 wanted only the meat, no bread, fine. Much whining and fussing ensued. But I didn't care ... mom on a mission ... gonna fix the meal I planned!

I get home and start getting ready to cook. I pull out all the ingredients, get the skillet on the stove to start browning the meat, put tater tots on a cookie sheet, pour the corn into a pot. I get the ground beef out. The Manwich can calls for 2 pounds ... I only have 1 pound.

It was time to yield ... I called out for pizza.

He said, She said ...

2007-01-06T20:05:00.000-05:00

I don't know if you've noticed, but every few days, I put a new quote over there in the sidebar ... "Daily Purls". At a former place of employment, we had a huge black dry erase board on the wall of a heavily traveled hallway. We used flourescent colored dry erase markers on it (it looked totally cool, btw. I frequently would draw a border or pictures on it.)

The purpose of the board was for daily quotes. Anyone could put the quote for the day on the board. The quotes ran the gamut: funny, motivational, inspirational, serious, thought provoking and some that just didn't make any sense ... almost a riddle.

I had worked there for quite some time before I started putting quotes on the board. Apparently, folks liked the quotes I found because after a few, I noticed that when I walked past that board in the morning for the first of MANY times each day, no one had put up a new quote. One day I'd probably been in the office for over an hour when I got an email. The sender was checking to make sure I was at work that day. She was awaiting the new quote for the day.

When I left that job, I continued to find quotes. But instead of a cool black dry erase board with flourescent markers, I would email them to a list of friends each day.

I haven't gathered or shared quotes in over a year and I've kind of missed it. So I thought I'd like to do it again. And what better venue. I don't know if I'll change it daily, but I'll change it often. So please, feel free to stop by and see if there's a new quote. And if it strikes your fancy, be sure to comment.

And yes, the quotes are typically very meaningful or significant to whatever is happening in my world that day. The quote there now is no exception. Remind me to tell you about it tomorrow.

And don't forget ... Sunday, January 7th is the 1st International Pajama Day of 2007. Join in the fun!

Have you seen this ...

2007-01-03T12:35:00.000-05:00

Morehouse Merino is offering free patterns on their site. There are currently two "Patterns du Jour" - the Igloo Hat

and a Striped Baby Blanket, Hat and Booties

I don't know how often they'll be adding patterns, it's but certainly worth checking regularly.

The First on The Second

2007-01-02T22:50:00.000-05:00

Woo Hoo - the first FO of the year and today's only January 2nd!!! I just finished the bind-0ff for my Fiddlehead Scarf from Morehouse Farms - mine is actually a gorgeous red/black variegated that doesn't photograph well in the dark. I'll try to get a good photo of it this weekend. It should be blocked by then too.

ETA: Photo of scarf from Morehouse site.

I bought this kit at the Knitters Review Retreat in early November. I cast on at the retreat Sunday morning during our New Beginnings session. The idea is that we cast on new projects for the coming year, swapping stitches on others' cast-on rows for good luck. You know ... some good knitting juju.

I started my scarf a little differently in that I'm kind of funny about different knitters casting on/knitting with different tension and possibly causing my scarf to look a little wonky in the beginning. So, to keep the good vibes, mojo and juju going, I cast on using my friend/roomie's circular needle. This way I still had her juju going in my scarf too. You may recall this photo from an earlier post - but it's a picture that bears repeating ... that's Lou after some stash enhancement that particular weekend. With that kind of excitement, I know I got some GREAT knitting juju by using her needles for this scarf. Thanks again Lou!

New Years Eve 2006

2006-12-31T14:34:00.000-05:00

It's that time again, time for my annual New Year's Eve post - to review my goals and accomplishments for the past year. Here were my knitting goals for 2006 (remember these were written last year):

1) Knit a sweater - I'm awaiting the arrival of the yarn so I can cast on for a sweater for my former BIL's first child (due February '06).
2) Knit more socks, particularly for myself.
3) Get back to my charity knitting - I don't feel like I did nearly enough this year (2005).
4) Knit more things for myself in general - most of what I knit, I gift.
5) Start the SSCP knitting much earlier - September wasn't quite early enough this year.

How'd I do?
1) I cast on and knit my first sweater in January - it was a sweater for my former B-I-L's first child. I finished knitting it January 10th and did the seaming February 1.
2) Not so well on this one. I currently have 2 pair of hand-knit socks.
3) Could have done more ... 2 chemo hats for a friend, booties for preemies and 3 scarves for the family my group at work adopted for Christmas.
4) I completed (and regularly wear) 6 items for myself - not bad!!!
5) I actually started my SSCP knitting on January 10th and worked on it all year. It certainly made the holidays much less stressed. I highly recommend it!

Here are some of my accomplishments and things I learned through my 2006 knitting:

1) I am definitely a process knitter. Don't get me wrong - FOs are great - but it's all about the process for me. Even frogging soothes me.
2) FOs for the year:
~ 18 scarves
~ 6 hats
~ 2 pairs of socks
~ 2 chemo hats
~ 7 pair preemie baby booties
~ 1 baby sweater
~ 1 shawl
~ 1 clapotis
~ 3 shrugs
There are still a few items on the needles, but alas, they aren't finished yet.
3) Competed in the Knitting Olympics and achieved my goal - Go USA Lace Team!!!!
4) Taught 2 friends to knit.
5) New techniques learned:
~ Provisional cast on
~ Buttonholes
~ Mattress stitch
~ Finishing a sweater
~ Lace knitting
~ Picot cast-on edge
There may be one or two others that I can't think of right now, but not too shabby, if I do say so myself!

I still don't particularly like resolutions, I'm more about goals. For 2007, I hope to keep knitting and keep learning. I'd still like more hand-knit socks ... gotta work on that one!

This year, I wish the same things for you as I did last year: As the ball drops and we count down the seconds to the New Year, I hope you each find peace, happiness, abundance and joyful knitting.

Happy New Year!

Blogger Woes

2006-12-30T09:31:00.000-05:00

I made the switch to the new Blogger (not Beta anymore, apparently) and I'm not sure how I'm liking it. Overall I think it's okay - too early to say pretty good - but one of the biggest headaches I'm having so far is I can't put buttons in my sidebar. I've got to work on that one.

Has anyone else made the switch? What do you think of it? Any tips, hints or secrets you can share?

Mary, I know you were thinking about it ... didja do it yet?

Here a meme, There a meme

2006-12-28T20:51:00.000-05:00

As the year draws to an end, I give you this is fun, quick meme I've seen a couple of others do.

Basically, you copy and paste the first sentence posted for each month of 2006.

~ January: Can't.Blog.Must.Knit.

~ February: I know - I know.

~ March: Congrats again to all the Knitting Olympians - I think Stephanie summed it up best: "It takes a village to freak out non-knitters ... and there is strength in numbers."

~ April: In case you haven't heard ... new Knitty on Monday!

~ May: The last couple of weeks have been kind of crazy.

~ June: Straight from Laurie, here's my hor-o-scope for June.

~ July: No post tonight ... many things to post about ... not enough time ... getting ready to go to the movies ... going to see Pirates of the Caribbean 2 at midnight with my dad. Ciao!

~ August: I must say - I'm sick to death of "service providers" and vendors screwing you at every turn.

~ September: So I'm at work this morning.

~ October: We're a hair over a week into Socktoberfest, so I figured it's a good time to answer Lolly's questions.

~ November: I know I've been lazy horribly remiss a total slacker about posting.

~ December: I've completed more SSCPs.

Hmm - I'm not sure what that says about me ... or my year.

Post-Christmas Sigh of Relief

2006-12-26T15:39:00.000-05:00

I am SUCH a bad blogger ... I actually completed 20 of 23 SSCPs, but didn't take pictures! What the heck is wrong with me?!?!

I'll tell you what was wrong ...

I was up until almost 3am for the three nights leading up to Christmas morning, trying to finish the knitting.

All I can say is Whew! I'm glad that's over for another year.

Will I knit SSCPs for next year? I don't know yet. I'm sure I will for the family, but I'm not so sure about the folks at work. That was a lot of work. I did 7 scarves and 2 hats for my co-workers.

The kids and I have spent this morning and early afternoon putting away all the goodies we got for Christmas. So, I'm kind of worn out now. Think I'll take a nap.

Later!

Deliveries *

2006-12-18T23:18:00.000-05:00

Well, the first of the SSCPs will be gifted tomorrow. My group at work is exchanging pressies since it's the last day before Christmas that we'll all be in the office.

I just wrapped everything ... well, everything but Darth Tater. Not sure how to wrap him. In the a.m. I'll check the gift wrap center (box of bags, bows and stuff) in the closet in the kids room ... they're sleeping now ... and see if I have a large enough gift bag to put this baby in.

I've got Darth, 3 scarves (for the ladies) and 2 hats (for the guys) for tomorrow. Now that they're all wrapped and ready to go, I'm drinking a little homemade-extra-special-yummy-fully-loaded egg nog. Mmmmm mmmmm good! Love it!!!!

Tomorrow evening I've got another batch of gifties to wrap that will be delivered on Wednesday. I also have a few more things to knit before the big day ... I know, only 6 days, 0 hours, 37 minutes and 43 seconds to go.

* Oh - I received a couple of excellent deliveries in the last few days myself. I'll tell you about them later.

Later!

1 down ... more to go

2006-12-17T22:17:00.000-05:00

Just finished SSCP #17 ... I've got to wrap several gifts tomorrow ... have to knit more tonight.

I leave you with this ...

If denial doesn't work, try this ...

2006-12-15T10:46:00.000-05:00

I couldn't help it ... I just made a total elf of myself.

So little time

2006-12-14T22:53:00.000-05:00

I've got 3 SSCPs on the needles right now and a couple more to start. I'm not stressing, but I'm a little concerned and maybe even a little bit in denial that Christmas is really only 10 days, 1 hours, 5 minutes and 43 seconds away.

I'm off work tomorrow and Monday, so hopefully there will be some decent blocks of knitting time in there. Let's see ... what's on the ToDo list (besides knitting) this weekend:

Friday -

dentist
GS troop holiday party
make meatballs for above party
buy 2 Secret Santa gifts for above party
go to the bank

Saturday -

Kids Craft at Michael's
buy more yarn for SSCPs while at Michael's
DD#3's birthday party* at Build-A-Bear Workshop
lunch at McDonald's with Birthday Girl and PartyGoers
adult holiday party at knitting friend's place (Hi Amanda!)

Sunday -

family birthday dinner* for DD#3 at the parentals'

Monday -

off from work, but kids also out of school and home with me

And somewhere in there I also need to do laundry, grocery shopping, clean the turtle tank, wrap presents, bake cookies and make toffee. Oh yeah, and eat, sleep and feed the kids regularly.

I'm sure I can carve out some knitting time. If I need to cut out things, I'll start with cleaning the turtle tank and go from there ::grins::

Let's see how much time is left until Christmas now: 10 days, 0 hours, 57 minutes and 51 seconds. Okay - back to the needles.

Want to know how much time is left now? Click here for actual time remaining until Christmas.

* DD#3's birthday is actually next Thursday, but to keep it completely separate from Christmas, we're celebrating this weekend.

Check it out!

2006-12-12T13:14:00.000-05:00

Friend has FINALLY started her own blog. Be sure to stop by and welcome her to the knitblogging world.

To post or to knit ...

2006-12-12T00:16:00.000-05:00

No time to post ...

must knit ...

looming deadline ...

only 13 days until Christmas ...

Later!

SSCPs and BDPs*

2006-12-04T01:18:00.000-05:00

I've completed more SSCPs. Here are a few photos for your viewing pleasure.

The first scarf is for a co-worker (and very good friend) who is allergic to wool. We questioned her vigorously when she made this claim because we (like the Yarn Harlot) figured she just hadn't had any GOOD wool yet. But alas, she is allergic. The hives and redness in the area that touches wool confirmed it for us.

The other scarf is for DD#2. I found the popcorn yarn at the Fall Fiber Fesitval in Montpelier back in October. I paired it with Lion Brand Suede. DD#2 (who is 10yo) will love it. I may do a 2nd scarf for Niece#1 who is 9yo.

I also made a couple of these necklaces last weekend - this one is for my boss' recent birthday. I cheated ... the beads were already strung. I just added the pendant and attached all three strands to a nice closure. I think it turned out nicely. I've made a few others for SSCPs.

And these earrings, I also made for my boss.

That's all for now. The knitting continues. Later!

*If you've been around here for more than 5 minutes, I'm sure you already know what SSCPs are ... SuperSecretChrissiePressies. But now we have BDPs to add to the list of acronyms ... BirthDayPressies.

Our own Rachael Ray

2006-11-27T17:22:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Ours was nice. DD#3 is becoming a regular Rachael Ray ... not only does she love watching her show, but she loves helping in the kitchen. Here she is helping with our Thanksgiving feast, making deviled eggs:

And here's the crustless pumpkin pie she helped me with for Thanksgiving:

I've been busy working on SSCPs. I've completed 2 more and should have another 1 or 2 done in the next night or so. I don't have an actual count of how many I'm going to do ... I'm just going to keep knitting away until I run out of time. Keep your fingers crossed for me. I'll let you know how that works out.

Well, the knitting needles are calling out to me. More later!

Dear Monet ...

2006-11-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Every one of us gets through the tough times because somebody is there, standing in the gap to close it for us. ~ Oprah Winfrey

Thank you for standing in the gap for me.

Here's hoping you have the best day ever. I love ya bunches!!!!

Didja see this?

2006-11-22T12:27:00.000-05:00

Julia Roberts joins 'Knitting Club'
By JAM! Movies

Julia Roberts has signed on to produce and star in the family drama "The Friday Night Knitting Club," Variety reports.

The film, based on the Kate Jacobs' upcoming novel, tells the story of a single mom who juggles the demands of running a knitting store with raising her spirited teenage daughter.

Christine Peters ("How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days") will co-produce with Roberts; a director has not yet been announced as yet.

Roberts will be seen next with Tom Hanks and Philip Seymour Hoffman in the drama, "Charlie Wilson's War."

Several posts in one

2006-11-20T03:36:00.000-05:00

I've been busy since the KR Retreat ...

Our Girl Scout troop had our Annual Ceremony Friday evening. We do one big ceremony each fall. This is when we do Investiture, Rededication, bridging/flying up and awards. This can all take a little while as our troop currently has three age levels ... Daisies, Brownies and Juniors. My youngest is a Daisy and DD#2 and Niece#1 just bridged to Juniors. I think the girls had a good time.

Saturday I spent the day at the parentals' since my aunt was in town from St Louis and my cousin was coming to pick her up to take her to his house for Thanksgiving. I hadn't seen him in quite a while and totally enjoyed hanging out with him. He's one of my fave cousins ... and a GREAT storyteller. After they left, I ended up taking a nap on the loveseat while my mom was napping upstairs and my dad napped on the couch. I woke up ready for dinner. After dinner I headed home.

Today I spent the day going through boxes and PURGING stuff. Those of you that know me, understand what a major feat this truly is. I emptied a closet. See:

And hopefully tomorrow there will be coats hanging in there - what a concept - coats hanging in a closet!

I've also been busy working on SSCPs (SuperSecretChrissiePressies). I finished two on Saturday, including weaving in the ends. I've got a 3rd that is so close to finished I can taste it. A 4th and 5th just need to be seamed and the ends woven in, then they'll be ready to wrap. It's hard to believe Christmas is only 30-something days away - PLEASE don't tell me exactly how many. I really don't wanna know!

Okay, back to the Retreat last weekend. The entire weekend was phenomenal. I'm sure you've read lots about it here in blogland already so I won't bore you with details. Rather, I'll provide highlights.

It started very early on Friday morning because I couldn't sleep and wanted to be at the airport by 8:30 a.m. Mary, Lou and I flew in together and had no trouble. It was incredible to see the Statue of Liberty as we approached LaGuardia - I'd never seen it before.

We rented a car and headed for the Catskills. Lou drove and I navigated. We made an adventure of it - afterall, anyone can follow directions. We drove up Palisades Parkway, which was really beautiful. Driving along reviewing the map, I realized we'd be in Orange County. Yes THAT Orange County! After some Googling, I discovered the OCC Showroom & Retail Store was only 30 minutes from where we were ... we made plans to stop on Sunday on our way back to the airport.

Upon arriving at Jeronimo's, the fun really started. It was wonderful to rekindle many friendships that were made last year, and make new friendships this year. Even though Jane and I didn't share a room this year, we had the chance to catch up and share hugs and laughs.

As I said the other day, the retreat really helped re-energize and rejuvenate me for knitting, as well as my seeming eternal quest for inner peace. Everything about this venue was wonderful for our retreat. We had the place to ourselves, the food was excellent and plentiful.

The other knitters were open, warm and sharing. It's always amazing to me how you can gather 70+ knitters who are virtually strangers and we immediately click and feel comfortable with one another.

Once again I felt relaxed and gained new insight into myself. I learned more about why I knit and what leads me to take on the projects I choose. I also learned I have a strong desire to support a good cause ... even though I already own a set of Denise Needles, I bought a 2nd set.

I know, I know ... why do I need a 2nd set of Denise's? Well, I ask you this ... why not? A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the pink ones will go to breast cancer research, so how could I say no?

The rest of my time at Jeronimo's was full of good knitting, good friends and great food. We really had a ton of fun. BTW, Lou, Rho, Mary and Jane ... the hat is FINISHED!!!! Can you believe it?!?!?! Here, see for yourself (Don't ask me why the photo is sideways. I tried to turn it the right way. It's 3:30a.m. ... whatever):

While typing that I realized what time it is - doh! So, I'll leave you with one last picture for tonight ... it's truly worth 1,000 words - here's Lou at the Spirit Trail trailer for the "after sale" Sunday after lunch doing some stash enhancement:

It's been a long time

2006-11-13T17:55:00.000-05:00

I know I've been ~~lazy~~ ~~horribly remiss~~ a total slacker about posting. Not only has life gotten in the way and not left me much time or energy for posting or even knitting ::GASP::, but it's kind of drained my passion and desire. Fear not, I believe I've found the cure ... The Knitter's Review Retreat!

It was last weekend and it was wonderful. I'll follow up with a more detailed post this weekend ... stay tuned!

Hey! L-B ...

2006-10-26T18:56:00.000-05:00

I hope your birthday is as wonderful as you!

Love Ya!!!!

ahem

2006-10-10T07:50:00.000-05:00

I received an interesting email yesterday morning ...

Sent: Monday, October 09, 2006 11:56 AM
To: Beth
Subject: *ahem*

dear beth,it's been so long since we've last been in touch. i believe it was september 18 when you last left me a token message. i know we're in a committed relationship and all, but lately i feel as though you have been neglecting me. is there another? have you been writing in another blog? you must tell me. i have to know. the though of you doing another blog when i'm perfectly abled to meet your needs breaks my heart. i mean, you made me custom bling buttons and everything. you even learned a little html, just so we could communicate better. please let me know what's going on.

love, your blog

And to respond:

Dear Blog -

I'm sorry you feel neglected. I've been rather busy with life and since your life is contingent upon mine, you were pushed to the backburner. I'm sure it's no consolation, but my knitting has been feeling somewhat neglected too. I'll try to do better.

~Beth

Socks, mud, books, Brian

2006-10-09T21:29:00.000-05:00

We're a hair over a week into Socktoberfest, so I figured it's a good time to answer Lolly's questions:

When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class? I taught myself to knit socks last July. I used this book.
What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time? My first pair were actually baby socks. I figured it would be easier to learn the techniques and anatomy of the sock on a little one and it would take as long. This was definitely the way to learn. And since babies aren't actually walking, they've held up just fine!
What would you have done differently? Learned to knit socks earlier.
What yarns have you particularly enjoyed? I've absolutely loved Socks that Rock.
Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method? I know how to do 2 circulars as well as Magic Loop, but my preference is definitely DPNs. Specifically short DPNs. Although, I bought a short Addi Turbo Circular (12" long) at the Fall Fiber Festival (FFF) yesterday. I'll let you know how it works out.
Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?) I prefer the flap heel. My fave would be the Eye of Partridge heel - I just love the way it looks and feels on.
How many pairs have you made? I've made 10 complete pairs and I have 2 pair on the needles right now.

At the FFF yesterday, I also purchased enough Cascade Fixations to make myself 2 more pairs of socks. Hey - it was only $3/skein. You can't NOT buy it at that price.

Speaking of the FFF ... I'm sure you've read other accounts of it elsewhere, but Friend and I went for the day and had a great time ... in spite of the mud. We both bought some beautiful yarn from Jen at Spirit Trail Fiberworks.

I gotta tell you ... it's good to work for a bank ... today was a HOLIDAY! Woo Hoo!!! The kids and I slept in and had a lazy day. Then we went to the new library. It's beautiful - state-of-the-art. They've got tons of meeting rooms and study rooms and public use computers. There's even a cafe and a teen area. We got the calendar of upcoming programs/events and the kids have found tons of stuff to do there before the end of the year. I may even join one of the meeting groups.

Well, the season premier of What About Brian is back on ... later.

Resistance is Futile

2006-09-18T20:18:00.000-05:00

Add another to the ranks ... another co-worker has asked me to teach her to knit ... heh heh heh! She's already on her second scarf!

Friend is also cruising right along on her journey to the other side - the Knitting side, that is. In addition to the plethora of scarves she's currently got on the needles (at last count, I think she had 5 scarves going), she has cast on for her 2nd pair of socks! To say that she's hooked is a gross understatement! Friend has done an awesome job and when she sees something she likes, she just jumps right in, er, casts right on!

I've been plugging away on a few projects. I'm working on 2 pairs of socks (1 is for me, the other an SSCP) and 3 shrugs (again, 1 for me, the others are SSCPs). I'm STILL knitting away on Soleil, albeit vvvveeeerrrryyyy slowly.

I also signed up for Lolly's Socktoberfest again this year. It was a lot of fun last year and who doesn't love knitting a good sock?!?

As much as I love the knitting, I've just not felt like it by the time I get home and get the kids settled every evening. Hopefully this funk will pass soon!

Don't forget ... season premiere of Grey's Anatomy tomorrow night! I don't know about you, but I can't wait!!!

Oh what a beautiful morning!

2006-09-07T19:46:00.000-05:00

So I'm at work this morning. I actually got there a little early today. I was responding to emails and retrieving messages from voicemail. A co-worker called to advise she wasn't going to be in today because she wasn't feeling well. On my desk, I keep a clipboard with a list of my team members and where they are that week. As I was writing on that list that she would be out of the office, I noticed that someone had indicated they'd be coming in late because of a doctor appointment that morning. When I looked over to see who it was, I about stroked out ... it was ME!!!!!

So ... at 8:25 ... I take off running out of the office ... I quickly walk the almost 2 blocks to the parking garage (and I had a GREAT parking space this morning) ... I ~~carefully~~ ~~quickly~~ ~~speedily drive~~ break multiple speed laws to get to the local high school to pick up DD#1 (who had literally just gotten off the bus at school) ... we hastily drive to the pediatrician's office for her annual checkup/med check (which I had to wait several weeks to get the appointment).

We made it with 5 minutes to spare. Whew!

Where? When? Huh?

2006-08-22T23:17:00.000-05:00

Oh my ... time has certainly gotten away from me.

It's late and I'm tired but can't sleep and I can't really think of a REAL post right now, so I'll get back to you in the next couple of days. Suffice it to say, I've been busy - not so much knitting progress to report - real life ... and pondering exactly what "real life" is ... seems to be getting in the way of good, solid knitting time.

Later.

Ugh!

2006-08-01T14:53:00.000-05:00

I must say - I'm sick to death of "service providers" and vendors screwing you at every turn.

I've been with Verizon Wireless for over 6 years and have ALWAYS done the New Every 2 plan (I renew my contract for 2 years and get $100 credit towards a new phone) and I've ALWAYS purchased a much more expensive phone (I bought a SmartPhone when it came out - over $500). Check out the new New Every 2 eligibility criteria:

"If you enrolled in the program on February 5, 2006 or after you will qualify for a free phone up to a $50 or $100 value, depending on the monthly access of your plan. If your calling plan monthly access is $79.99 or higher for the entire three months prior to completing your New Every Two phone upgrade, you will get up to $100.00 toward the purchase of a new phone. If your calling plan monthly access was between $34.99 and $79.98 at any time during the three months prior to completing your New Every Two phone upgrade, you will get up to $50.00 toward the purchase of a new phone."

My calling plan is $59.99/month. SnakesOnAPlane!

FOs, WIPs, SSCPs, ISO, WTF *

2006-07-28T00:20:00.000-05:00

You want acronyms? We got your acronyms!

I did it ... I finished my Clapotis!!! I'm so excited and pleased with how this turned out. Even though it's eleventy-billion degrees outside and the humidity is 864%, I wore it to work Wednesday as a kind of poncho thingie. I did a few extra repeats of the straight section because I wanted it long. Well, it's definitely long ... when I hold it up, it's "taller" than me! I got lots of compliments on it. This was one of the most satisfying things I've ever knit. I know I've said it before, but the fabric has the most incredible drape - it's like liquid. The color is beautiful. And The Clap is just so versatile!

And here it is with a close-up of my beautiful shawl closure. It's hand-made and clear glass with little white "flecks" on one side. I bought the closure at MdS&W.

And no, your eyes aren't deceiving you ... Soleil is once again listed as "In the Rough" on the sidebar. I don't know if you recall, but I started that in April 2005 and frogged it this past February (I had misplaced the pattern so had no idea where I was or what my progress/size notes were). So, Tuesday night I sat down and cast on again. I'm almost done with the lace pattern. This is such a pleasant item to knit. I'm totally enjoying it.

I'm also working on the SSCP list. I have already done 4 of I don't yet know how many items and have a 5th on the needles.

If anyone has a great pattern for kids socks, let me know. I'd like to do a pair for each DD (ages: 15, 10, 6) and Nieces (9, 3yo) again this year.

And on a final note ... have you seen this? All I can say is WTF?!?!

* Do you know what they all stand for? Just for fun, leave a quick comment with your answers.

Quick Update

2006-07-18T10:48:00.000-05:00

I only have a few minutes, so wanted to give you a quick update.

My crop on Saturday went VERY well. I had 3 ladies there all day (9:30am - 5:30pm) and 2 more ladies joined us for the afternoon. I even got 3 and a half pages completed in my album. Everyone had a great time and all are looking forward to the next one!

Here's DD#3 modeling one of the chemo caps I made for my friend:

And here's a close-up of the hat:

I forgot to snap a picture of the 2nd one I made her because I finished it late Saturday night. I was going to see her on Sunday and had to get it done.

Sunday was the best time EVER!!!! Everybody in our group had an absolute blast! You can't go wrong with good friends, good food, alcohol and Drag Queens for brunch!

Here's a photo from Sunday - this is me with the lovely ladies who entertained us:

"Jack...? Jack Sparrow? I can honestly say I'm glad to see you." - Will Turner *

2006-07-14T23:52:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I haven't blogged in a week. (Well ... okay ... actually 2 weeks because the last 2 posts were fodder ... I admit it. ) If I don't watch it, "they'll" take my blog license away.

Let's see ... what's been going on? How about a bit of a recap?

Friday, June 29th - my first crop as a CM Consultant. I only had 3 customers there, but I think everyone had a great time.
Monday, July 3rd - took the day off since Tuesday was a holiday (gotta love banker's holidays!).
Tuesday, July 4th - Holiday! Went to a cookout at my friends' house (Hi Carolee ::waving madly::).
Wednesday, July 5th - back to work. blech.
Thursday, July 6th - missed work for the day because DD#2 passed out while her dad was doing her hair that morning. We spent the morning in the ER (she's fine, but what a scare!) and then spent the afternoon at home, not being too active. Then I didn't go to bed until really late because I went to see a movie with my dad. I know, it didn't release until Friday, July 7th. Technically, it was the 7th because we went to the midnight movie. This was a 2 1/2 hour movie people. And I had to go work the next day. But it was SSSSOOOOOO worth it - Johnny Depp rocks! Hullo Beastie.*
Saturday, July 8th - Pour some sugar on me! Went to see Journey and Def Leppard in Virginia Beach with Friend and TheOtherOne (Hi MoMo's!!). OMG - we had such a good time. And we had the good fortune to hear, see, drool over (okay, maybe just me) Journey's new temporary front man - Jeff Scott Soto - read this (go to July 6) for details. He was so.f'ing.good! Def Leppard was excellent too! We had so much fun on this little road trip - it was great! But it made for another rreeeaaallllyyy llloooonnnnngggg ddddaaaayyyy - I got home about 3am.
Sunday, July 9th - I slept ... until 9:30 in the morning when my kids came home. Bugger.*
Monday, July 10th - worked.
Tuesday, July 11th - worked. Also, the 10th anniversary of my 29th birthday. BuggerBuggerBugger.*
Wednesday, July 12th - worked. Went to knitting group.
Thursday, July 13th - worked. Spent the evening running around trying to get ready for Saturday.
Friday, July 14th - worked. Spent a second evening getting ready for Saturday.
Today (yes it is, it's almost 1am) - All day CM crop - Woo Hoo! I'm really excited and tickled to have found a venue to hold an all day crop. I've spent the last several hours getting all my stuff (stickers, papers, shapemakers, etc) ready so I can set up bright and early tomorrow morning, er, later today.

There has been some knitting during all of this. I've done 2 chemo hats for a friend's mom, who just finished chemo for breast cancer. Pictures later.

Oh! and Sunday morning a bunch of us are going here for the Drag Queen Brunch to celebrate the 2nd Annual Beth's Birthday Brunch (and my SIL's birthday and my mom's birthday too!). We're going to have a blast!

Jack Sparrow: [empties bottle of rum] Why is the rum always gone?
[stands up and staggers drunkenly] Oh... that's why.*

*Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest

More Fodder

2006-07-07T11:43:00.000-05:00

I found this over at K1, P4ever's place:

If I'm posting this as blog fodder (since I don't have time for a "real" post right now), does that raise my loser score?

Arrgghhh!

2006-07-06T20:27:00.000-05:00

No post tonight ... many things to post about ... not enough time ... getting ready to go to the movies ... going to see

at midnight with my dad. Ciao!

Bueller ... Bueller ...

2006-06-28T11:27:00.000-05:00

I'm here! I'm here!

I know it's been a while - sorry. But I feel MUCH better, thanks for asking!

I've been knitting away ... I picked up The Clap again and am almost finished with the straight section. I decided to make it a little longer than the pattern called for, so I have a few more repeats of that before I start the decrease section. Since it doesn't really look any diff than the last time I showed you, I'll spare you the progress photo.

I've also started another pair of socks, but not the Rock and Weave socks from the STR club. I'll do them, I just wanted something simple for right now.

Lots of folks are doing socks right now, but that isn't really anything new. Margene linked to some ESKs (Emergency Sock Kits) that Cassie has made (and is selling, btw - go check 'em out!). Now I don't have anything that fancy, but I've got my own little ESK.

I found this really cool box:

Yes, it contained Strawberry Shortcake bandages. With 3 DDs I knew the bandages wouldn't go to waste. And yes, I bought it just for the box. I'm the mom, I can do that.

I'm sure you're wondering what's inside to transform this seeming innocuous bandage box into an ESK:

a tape measure, a yarn cutter, a little pen, some sticky notes and stitch markers. There's usually a small stitch holder as well, but it's currently on the SIP (Sock In Progress).

Whenever I'm working on a pair of socks, I make sure I have my little ESK with me and I know I have EVERYTHING I need to make my socks. Woo Hoo!!

Friend has been busy knitting too - here are 2 of her current WIPs:

That's the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone scarf (in Gryffindor colors, of course!)

And this is Branching Out:

Since I was sick, I missed a couple of weeks of Knitting Group, so it'll be good to see everyone tonight!

Note to self ...

2006-06-12T21:20:00.000-05:00

... don't try to knit 15 minutes after taking Nyquil.

It's not pretty.

I'm just sayin'.

Knitting/Laughing/General Merriment

2006-06-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

So, how was your weekend? Mine turned out to be quite knitterly!

Sunday afternoon I made my way over to The Yarn Lounge with my mom. We stopped in to pick up a new book ... perhaps you've heard of it?

Wendy was in town doing the Central Virginia leg of her book tour.

Here I am with Wendy and Maxine - my mom made sure to stay BEHIND the camera ;-P

As always, it was great to sit and knit with L-B ::waving madly:: and I had the rare opportunity to knit and chat with Jane for a while. We've run into each other a few times since meeting last year at The Yarn Lounge and we keep up with each other's doings through our blogs, but this is the first chance we've really had for some quality knitting time together. It was also a pleasure to meet Jane's friend Isobel. And it was WONDERFUL to see Lawre's (Jane's sister) bee-yoo-tee-ful bags in person. I've already put the bug in Mom's ear that I'd like one next month for my birthday ::fingers crossed::

After the book signing, a number of us headed over to Cafe Gutenberg for drinks/dinner/dessert (or any combination thereof). Of course, in addition to eating/drinking, there was knitting/laughing/general merriment. By the way L-B, there's a space RIGHT HERE to put a shot of your, um ... er ... sock - I'm waiting for that photo!!!

{this space reserved for photo of L-B's sock}

What was I knitting during all of this fun? Glad you asked. I was cranking out some teeny tiny preemie baby booties for The Preemie Project. Here's my most recent batch. These will fit 1-3 and 3-5 lb babies.

And a close up - they're just so darn cute. And tiny. Did I mention these are tiny?

And in other knitterly happenings ... Friend has her second FO - woo hoo!!! This is a scarf she did for her SIL for Christmas. It's a kit from one of my all-time fave places ... Morehouse Farms.

This is a great drop-stitch pattern. And now for the close up:

And finally, I leave you with a shot of the flowers currently on my desk at work. I was in the grocery store last night to pick up a small mixed bouquet (I just love fresh flowers, don't you?!) to adorn my desk for the week. DD#2 and #3 asked who the flowers were for. When I explained that they were for my desk, they said, "No, don't buy those. We have some for your desk!" When we got home, they gave me these tissue paper flowers that they had made at Girl Scouts. And of course EVERYBODY at work stopped by to comment on my beautiful flowers!