Labels: Blackberry, devotions, journey, knitting, knotions, lorna's laces shepherd sock, reflection, the love of God
I'm having eye trouble. I must be. Or maybe, it's visual processing issues.... Maybe I should call the doctor..an opthamologist maybe? Maybe I should try Lasik... but, I'm not sure any medical intervention can help. The problem seems to be more systemic than just a visual one.
See the beautiful purple sock in progress? The intricate twisting of the stitches? The socks are the "Oak Leaf Socks" from the online magazine "knotions". It's a beautiful pattern. It's a beautiful yarn. (Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in Blackberry) .. I should love them... but I can't seem to see them as others do.
When I look at them.. I mainly see the mistakes. It's almost like they have been highlighted, or circled in red ink. There are probably thousands of stitches already in this sock. and to be honest a very small few in comparison are incorrect. Yet- to me they stand out. BOLD. Instead of seeing the thousands of RIGHT stitches.. I focus on the ten's (maybe) of wrong ones. I nearly ripped them out to start over.
Instead, I put it on my foot, not because I wanted to- but because some wise soul suggested, that before I rip them out, I should put them on and have another look. I was shocked. From that distance, from that angle- I could suddenly see the pattern. IT WAS THERE afterall! Sure, the mis-crossed stitches were still there... but the overall pattern, now caught my eye.
There is something bigger in this pair of socks than a few crossed stitches. There is my ability to choose to gain perspective on my mistakes, and allow my eyes to be refocused. To see the bigger picture. In life- this is not always my first instinct- not towards myself- or towards others. My instinct is to be critical, and allow the few mistakes to distort my view of both myself and others. Sometimes this is wise and necessary.And sometimes, I "rip" a perfectly good person (most often myself) because all I focus on is faults or mis-crossed stitches.
My eyes may have issues.... but it isn't a doctor I think I need... I think it's a change of perspective.... and the only way MY perspective is changed, is through the one who always sees things with truth and grace. I think I'll be asking Him for help."Dear Lord, my critical eye is not hidden from you, both it's strengths and it's weakenesses. I ask you to help me gain perspective.. to focus on the right stitches and not the mis crossed ones...both in myself and those around me. I ask for your wisdom and for your grace to permeate my heart and then my world--- I love you lord- amen."
Labels: go-knit pouch, knitting, louet victoria, spinning, the loopy ewe, waiting
If there is a theme around here, it's WHILE.
While I Wait. While I Work, and In a While.... (sidenote- if you type "while" enough it starts to look like you spelled it wrong:). 
We're still in a waiting period.. but not frozen in mid air. There is much to do while waiting. There is coping.. There is working, there is waiting. For coping-- I have prayer- reading, spinning, knitting and people. For working--- I have 3 kids 2 cats, a beagle and the Dh.. they are, as always, keeping me busy:)
While I wait: I am spinning. I decided I could use my go-knits pouch (from the Loopy Ewe) to hold my fiber in process- it works GREAT! and snaps right to my wheel for outside spinning and travel and keeping the pets out of the fiber!
Also feeding people- still predominately with slow-foods:
Yesterday the boys spent an hour shelling peanuts, then we made homemade peanut butter! It was great!
Very simple- home made peanut butter:
2 cups roasted shelled salted peanuts, (skins removed)
1/3 cup oil, (peanut- but I used vegetable oil and a little less than 1/3 cup)
1/4 cup sugar.
pulse in food processor until peanut- buttery! store in fridge.
Later this week we'll be experimenting with peanut butter cups:) YUM.
As for knitting- I'm working on a pretty pattern from the new "knotions" online magazine. It's called the "Oak Leaf socks" 
a nice foray into twisted stitches, for me. I'm learning a lot and should improve by the time I am ready for the second sock! (assuming there is to be a second sock:)
The sock blocker is from the loopy ewe- just in case anyone is curious:) The yarn is Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in Blackberry.
I'm knitting them on US size 1, Knitpick Harmony DPN.s
So thats what I'm doing---- WHILING away the summer---- While I wait.. While I work and in a while...
How bout you?
I dialed the phone, not sure what to expect. 1 ring.. 2 rings then a click and pick up. I'd never heard the voice behind the smile before. I wondered what to expect. Labels: community, helping, knitting, loopy groupies, ravelry, the loopy ewe
A sweet but sad voice answered the phone. The voice dissolved into tears... we talked. I heard both her heart and the scary details of her situation..... I felt overwhelmed. This was a bigger problem than I could fix. I listened. We talked through potential solutions.. we prayed together... and then hung up.
What on earth can I do to help? The need was way bigger than what I had to offer in help. What I have to share wouldn't make a dent. I couldn't even wrap my arms around this person and hug her. She is too far away. I took some time to think and pray... I knit. I sat. I wandered around the house wondering how I would feel if it was me.... I felt overwhelmed with the size of the problem...I felt powerless to help.
I remembered the words of Mother Theresa.."There are no great things, only small things done with great love" That is how Mother Theresa faced the overwhelming poverty and need that surrounded her... one person at a time... one small, loving act, at a time, and trusting that it made a difference. It did... and still is. Her ministry of love is known all over the world.... I thought about the knititng in my hands.. and how each small stich adds itself to the garment...and creates something useful. (one stitch--- not so much:)
" Would small things done with love make a difference here? now? for this friend? " I just kept wondering. I thought some more... I prayed. and then I decided to ask her permission to help... and to enlist the help of others. Together we offered up bits and pieces.. ideas... words.. yarn (you knew yarn would be involved at some point) books, thoughts prayers....all the little bits started forming themselves into a plan... and then the plan launched.
The plan was to hold a small fundraiser- simple paypal donations made directly to a family in need of their rent money. Each donation would have the chance to win a prize donated with great love. Nervous.. we waited.... (maybe a bit nervously) Then... the donations started pouring in. Ravelry knitters- especially Loopy Ewe Yarn Shop group members- are giving small things with great love. Sacrifices...small and large ... each whatever they can do... and together making a difference.
The world is full of bad news. Fraud, inflation, economic messes. Watching the news is overwhelming- I try to avoid it, mostly... because I feel at a loss to be able to change it. I know, I can't. Not alone.. I don't have the time, the money or the resources to change the world... or do I? Maybe changing the world means doing small things with great love...maybe changing the world means doing what you can when you can, where you can... maybe it all adds up.
It sure is adding up for one family. As of this moment- we've raised enough to keep them in their apartment. Now- we're working on making sure they have groceries. People are looking to see if jobs can be found.. they are checking their contact lists to see if they know anyone local to help....they are making a difference. Not just for this family... but for the generations that come after this one.. and for themselves.. because they know they are making a difference.
Why share this? Because--- there is hope. There is hope that we can make a difference... hope that God can provide...hope that things can get better--- if we each do small things with great love.
For Ravelry members... you can click here to see what we're up to... and maybe even help make a difference.:)
If you'd really love to help-but are not a rav member... you can look in my sidebar for my e-mail address to contact me and I can share with you how you can make a difference.
I know--- I know.. how do you know this isn't yet another internet hoax.... more people manipulating for profit? I'd say you can take my word... but why? The truth is -- there is always risk involved in helping.. always risk of backlash of fraud.... personally? I refuse to let that stop me from helping... Because if we STOP helping.. stop trying... we all lose.
Most readers know that I am a Christian... someone who desires to follow God. Not just in my words.. but in my actions. My convictions affect my choices. Here is the example I have to follow... and I may be walking with a limp and wandering around... on ocassion... and struggling to even find the path... but I am. One small step at a time.
The good samaritan
Labels: graduation, knitting, random domesticity
Things are busy here. The graduate is filling out job applications. The parents are cleaning for the party.
There are tomatoes and peppers growing in the yard. (That is a first..as I hate dirt- with the exception of sand;)
I have sold of loads of excess yarn- and in return- bought the bestest mixer I've ever owned;) A refurbished Kitchenaid.. and yes- they really are that wonderful;)
The slow food movement and locally grown adventure has continued with a quick side-track for chinese last night to round out our "Kung-Fu Panda" theme night. (I t really HAD to be done) Movie was cute.
There has been continued knitting- I finished up my Shetland Shawl , in Sundara's Silky Aran- which I cannot recommend highly enough. I've cast on for a variation on the Birch Shawl- this one is point up- so much less aggravating than castin on hundreds of stitches:) With the added bonus of the ability to stop when ever I am sick of it;) Yes- I am probably the last knitter on earth to knit the Birch- but- I am like that- we know this.
Tomorrow will be a mixed bag of emotions as the oldest graduates.... for now- I'm just trying to figure out what to wear that will coordinate with running waterproof mascara. (I think I could cry that much- let's just say we are experiencing the "perfect storm" hormones + life change + child's life change= buckets of tears. Even Maybelline can only hold upto so much:) I may have to cry the ugly cry before hand- just to get it out of the way.
Also- there is nothing like planning to invite everyone you know to your home to make you realize how shabby things can become in 9 years of living in a house...the carpet- the bumps and bangs in the walls... but- then- it's been lived in with love and memories.. (I'm telling myself) so we'll just enjoy it:) (and pray for a nice day so folks can enjoy the yard.
More later- when I can think of something beyond pomp and circumstance;)
*Blink* *Blink* Labels: crock pot, free recipes, healthy eating, knitting, parenting, random domesticity, slow food
That was pretty much my answer to my primary care physician a couple of weeks ago, when she asked me a question I had NO answer for. (Me speechless? I know- it's shocking.) We were discussing my (now plateaued) weight gain. "Trouble shooting". (As if I may not KNOW what I've been doing wrong.) It started off fine... until she asked whether we'd had any dietary changes.... I said "You know, we're probably eating more pre-packaged and convenience foods..."
That's when she asked me "Why?". My response was exactly this:
*Blink* *Blink*
I didn't want to say what I was thinking. "Laziness...convenience...ease."
I left with a prescription for blood work and to eat breakfast. My answer, which I finally gave after losing the "she who speaks first, loses" game- (my doc can be brutal when she needs too be she just stood there looking at me waiting for an answer! ) has bothered me, ever since.
I did a pantry/fridge evaluation. My pantry and fridge, both flunked. Almost everything had an expiration date further in the future than my youngest son's graduation. Instead of actual foods listed in the ingredients, there were chemical combinations that sounded like diseases. That can't be good.
So- I'm doing a little experiment. We'll call it a "real-food experiment". My goal is not to lose weight or diet... (alhtough that would be nice;) but to eat actual food as opposed to chemical cocktails in ever-fresh packaging. It's May- and farmers markets are opening up, it should be fairly easy to find actual- real food. I love to cook- and actually can do it... it's time to stop being lazy.
Yesterday- we baked whole wheat flax seed bread and had whole wheat pasta with easy homemade pasta sauce. Yum.
Today- Noah and I are making a second attempt at home made Mozzerella (yesterdays shall remain unmentioned... gross:( ) We'll toss some more ingredients into the bread machine (I and I put chicken, canned tomatoes, black beans, onion, green peppers in the crock pot to cook all day. I'll serve it up over brown rice with a salad on the side. It wasn't hard... but it's all actual food. No powdered cheese... no rice mix of salt with pseudo-flavoring.... just, real food. There will still be plenty of treats and snacks...some "real food" and some "junk food"... but definitely a move towards the "real".
I can do it.. and I have the time... so I will.
Stay tuned- you'll get to watch the wins and losses- enjoy:)
From the top left: Whole Wheat Bread with ground flax. Home made pasta sauce. Second row- OOPs thats not food... thats my Tuscany Shawl from "No Sheep For You" .. Indigo Moon Fingering weight yarn in Aubergine. I love it;)
Bottom row- What was supposed to be Mozzerella cheese- but someone accidently let it boil....That's a loss. and real ingredients for today's chicken dinner;)
Whole Wheat Bread Good for Toast- I added 2 tablespoons of cold milled flax seed, and instead of oil, I used fresh butter;) .
Tracey's Homemade Pasta Sauce:
fresh mushrooms, sliced
chopped onion, minced garlic, green pepper diced
turkey sausage (1 lb)
1 lg can tomato sauce
1 can diced tomatoes with garlic and onion
1 small can tomato paste
salt and pepper to taste
Brown turkey and drain, add onion, garlic, green pepper, mushrooms, salt and pepper sautee until veggies are slightly softened.
Add tomato sauce, tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir and simmer until pasta is ready. (about 45 minutes) Serve with your favorite whole wheat pasta;)
Today's dinner-
Chicken and sauce-
Whole chicken cut up
Can tomato sauce
can tomato paste
can of black beans
onion, garlic and green pepper chopped, salt and pepper (I'm part Italian.. can't cook without these ingredients;)
toss everything in the crock pot, and cook until you are no longer afraid to eat it;) (I usually cook on high for 5-6 hours) Serve over steamed brown rice;) Maybe with a few grates of parmesan or fresh mozzerella.
Labels: community, knitting, parenting, random domesticity
We were in our "fence free" yard. I was knitting away, DH was doing the "commentary" for my youngests' individual soccer tournament. (Interestingly enough, he always wins when he plays with invisible opponents- however it's usually a close game ... he's all about the sports drama. ) Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed 3 varied sized potential soccer players, hovering at the invisible line that divides our yards.
"Hey- go ask if they want to play" I called to the soccer meister. 3 "real" players joined him almost immediately. My youngest introduced himself- and they returned in kind. However- my little guy kept asking their names. They were not names he was familiar with. Finally, he shrugged his shoulders and just went with it. An epic game of "make up the rules as you go" soccer soon unfolded. A chair and a soccer net were the goals. Dandelion clumps marked the sidelines. Much cheering and laughing rang out. 
After awhile, the soccer game dissolved, and all of the kiddos were watching me knit. I have a few ideas why watching my knitting was more interesting than the playscape or soccer net. Magic, rhythm and color are kid magnets for sure! But, even I, was surprised by what happened next. "I always wanted to learn to do that! Can you teach me?" Said the doe-eyed female soccer player who had held her own playing against 2 boys.
"Sure can" I went inside to search out needles and yarn that would work for a quick project. In a few minutes, she had caught the basic stitch. She quickly declared she'd "Teach everyone at school." Then she started planning her next projects..."How long will it take to finish? I want to finish this today!" Her excitement was contagious, and soon her older brother wanted in on the fun.
I came back from inside with another set of yarn and needles. He was quick to catch on as well. We all chatted and knit until their mom's voice called from next door. "Time to go!" They were next door visiting Grandma. I told them they could keep the knit supplies, and to keep practicing. It was getting chilly and nearly dark- so my youngets and I went int too.
After a few minutes- I heard happy chatter out back. The staccato of foreign language filled the yard. I went out to find my neighbor- (who speaks little english- I'd assumed) Happily helping her grandkids knit away. The gentleman soccer player was telling Grandma she wasn't do it the way I'd showed him. I went over- and found that yes- actually she was. I learned to knit "middle eastern... eastern uncrossed" or "combination or continental" style. My lovely, Lebanese neighbor knit the same way. Funny- continents-religion and language barriers instantly seemed to melt away.
We've always done the "suburban smile" greeting and said "Hi". However, that has been the extent of our conversation. (If that even counts as conversation) But this day- I heard about a sweater knit for her husband and her enjoyment of knitting with her grandkids. I met her daughter-in law- and found myself sounding like an older female version of my youngest, as I asked and repeated her name several times, before I finally got it right. In the 7 years or so that we've been neighbors, this was the most conversation we've had.
I'm excited about the potential knit- pal I've found. And about the kiddos who'll be coming back to visit, knit and play soccer with my little guy. This week- instead of knitting in my house- or knitting in the backyard- I think I'll move to the porch and see if anyone want to join me;) Amazing, what finding a common interest can do for your neighborhood;)
Labels: Book Launch, Kensington Market, knitting, Lettuce knit, More Big Girls Knit, Toronto, travel
A knitting adventure? Is that an oxymoron? I can assure you, it's not. (Contrary to the border guard who giggled on my explanation of the trips purpose.) I know- because this weekend I had one. An international adventure of epic proportions. I went to Toronto for the More Big Girls Knit Book Launch at Lettuce Knit! Which just so happened to coincide with the DKC Knitters Frolic. (Yes- the border guard also thought that explanation equally, HILARIOUS.)
I know, I know- I went to the first launch and wrote about it already. What can I say? It was such an amazing experience, I wanted more. That's exactly what I got. MORE. More of the same- and yet, something even better.
What really struck me this time, was the people and the knitting community that is Toronto. Walking up to Lettuce Knit- was a thrill. I'm a long time reader (ok ,stalker) of YarnHarlot, Amy, Jillian,(ok- a fellow Michigander- but in her heart, she's Torontonian) Jen, Indigodragonfly and a number of other Torontonian knit blogs...all of whom are Lettuce Knit regulars. Ocassional skeptic that I am, I had wondered if it was all hype. I wondered "Could it really be that great?" I also wondered how the regulars would respond to a loud, foreign invader.
Actually- I was a little (ok, a lot) nervous. I mean- these people actually know each other! They have a history together. I didn't want to feel like a third wheel- or a party crasher. Worse yet, I didn't want to feel like a knit-reject. Clicks (or should I say cliques?) are an international phenomenon... one I've experienced before, and don't like. But not this weekend. Not with these knitters and not at this shop. By the end of the evening- I felt like one of the girls. (well except I talk funny, apparently...)
I should back up a bit. The day had started much earlier, however, at the Frolic. I met Danielle and Indigodragonfly and we were quick to hit it off. Danielle and I could just about keep pace with each other in the verbal arena. (I think we near wore out Indigodragonfly!) And at one of the first booths we visited together, Indigodragonfly and I discovered we're fibre (that spelling is for my new Canadian friends) twins! (Which could have led to fibre fights, but didn't, as we're both quite sweet;) We quickly developed a rather symbiotic relationship- helping each other buy yarn.
Between the Frolic and the launch party- we hung out for a bit and talked - then I was invited to dinner at "The Big Fat Burrito". The infamous haunt of Lettuce Knitters! I had the most incredible steak burrito- which I shared with a homeless guy. (politics aside- we have to find an answer (answers) to homelessness...just sayin') Then, we walked to the shop for the launch.
Lettuce Knit is located in Kensington Market. Which- is just that- an amazing "find everything and then some " kind of neighborhood/market. The doors are open- goods of all sorts are displayed on racks and stands on the street. There are luscious fruit stands are on every corner. (At one stand the mangos were so irresistible- that a little guy, probably 4 or so, kept swiping one off the table, to try for a taste. Mom kept putting them back and telling him "no". However, like a tiny comedian, he kept reaching for another. FInally, in a Mom's desperate move of distraction- she held his arms over his head, laughing. The brilliant creativity of Kensington must have rubbed off on him- as he immediately leaned forward, mouth open, and bit a mango ""bobbing for apples" style! (I immediately fell in love with him, as well, and would have tucked him into my bag had it not already contained a lifetimes worth of yarn!)
Kensington Market was a sensory overload of the very best kind, with no sense was left un-touched. My nose was treated to a caucophony of aromas. (A pretty good trick, as I lost much of that sense, to a nose job years ago) The scents shifted from delightful to obnoxious within just a few feet. The scent of fresh (mostly fresh anyways) fish, bread, fruit, meat and humanity all created a tapestry of scent that will be forever etched in my mind and entitled "Kensington Market #5."
In addition to sights, textures and scents- there was music both lyrical and lingual, everywhere! It poured from the doorways and from street performers. Voices added to the music in both barter and chatter. It was truly amazing. It was life, concentrated. I think it was there, that I fell in love with Toronto. (I was also glad to have someone leading me around, or I'd have wandered aimlessly -albeit contentedly- for weeks!)
Still nervous- (me, anyways) we made our way through people and sights. I thought maybe it was the burrito when my stomach flip-flopped with nerves as we came up to the street that houses Lettuce Knit. Then, I saw it. There were knitters everywhere, on every step of the porch and on chairs, in both the front and backyard! They were smiling, chatting (knitting- of course;) and helping with projects and color choices. There were kids eating cupcakes, giggling and performing. (kids love an audience, and in these knitters they sure had one;) There was much passing of babies, and I could just about hear ovaries bursting with ripened eggs at the sight of them. (They were truly, that cute;)
The atmosphere was great. Energetic and fun. It was like Sesame Street came to life. (If Sesame Street suddenly became a bit PG 13;) I started shopping as soon as I got in the door;) The shop is tiny- but LOADED with the very best of knitterly goods. Soon- a fabulous Irish band arrived, and started playing the most beautiful music! Within minutes of arriving women were again transformed by the designers magic. There were cupcakes. There were sweaters. There were door prizes! (I won the most incredible Jordana Paige Knit bag!-see pics) There were knitters everywhere. It was fabulous.
Beyond the shopping potential and pure eye-candy of the place, there was a pervasive feeling of home. My nerves over how these knitters would receive an outsider, were totally unfounded. It was an amazing group. Everyone I met, had a story, design sense, a sense of humor or creativity that was remarkable, and they were quick to share them. (many had all of the above!!) A hotbed of design and designers surrounded me. I had a few questions about patterns (as every yarn I saw was begging to be immediately knit-up) when I threw them out to the group- each was met with, "Well, ask____ she's over there, she designed it!" I was amazed, and a little (ok, a lot) awe-struck.
After my visit, I think I have a better understanding of knit-community and what it can be. I can see how this atmosphere of synergy encouragement and creativity have birthed so many designers and artists of color, texture and word. I was sad to leave Lettuce Knit- the Knitty crew and MBGK Team . I will miss them and the Toronto they enjoy. But, they've inspired me to get involved in my local knit community and see what it can become. I mean- if Canadians can tolerate me... maybe a few Americans can as well;)
More after I catch up on laundry-- (is that even possible? Probably only if my family spends a few days in a nudist camp- which ain't happening...)
PS- HAPPY BIRTHDAY DENNY!
Labels: autumn cardigan, Kauni, knitting, steeking
I usually smile a smug little smirk when I come across the knitting directions : "Being careful not to twist."
"Do you think I'm an idiot?" I wonder to myself.
Today- I may have proved myself to BE an idiot. The evidence started mounting on Friday, actually. That's when I cast on the 10 bazillion stitches of icord for a new sweater. A lovely colorful sweater, in fact. Ruth Sorenson's "Autumn Cardigan." I had ordered yarn, swatched (I NEVER swatch) and finally, cast on.
After 3 failed attempts and several panic attacks concerning the length of the required icord, I picked up the required stitches in 2 colors, and started the colorwork ribbing. Whew.
knit knit knit, purl purl purl. For nearly 6 days. This morning, After my second cup of coffee. (Optimum time to start knitting for the day.) I took a close look at the project in question. The colors are working together nicely, the ribbing looks good, I'm happy with the consistency of the fabric and the icord snapped into size once I started the ribbing, as it should have. "I am the sweater master. " I thought.
That's when I noticed the twist. A twist is NOT part of the pattern.
5 or six times I tried to smooth the stitches on the needle. I thought (hoped) it must be the way I was holding it. Finally, I laid it on the kitchen table, smoothed the 327 stitches carewfully, and found it was true. I ws knitting a moebius sweater. CRAP.
I growled. (Literally, not figuratively) I stomped my feet. I frowned, and then, well after a careful look-round, I threw my knitting on the floor. My teenagers laughed. The dog sniffed to see if I had thrown her a colorful treat. The youngest put his fingers in his ears and continued watching "sprout". Feeling like QUITE the idiot, I picked it back up. I growled again. I showed them my moebius. They laughed again. I said it was a homeschool demonstration. They didn't believe me.
I finished another cup of coffee. Then set about considering my options:
1) We're buried in snow at the moment-(hence the boys are home to witness my shame) -- so burying it in the yard sounded feasible. However, - I knew that (like things the dog leaves in the snow) as soon as the snow melted it would return to haunt the knitter who'd created it.
2) I considered ripping it all out. While beautiful in color--- the Kauni is just too "sticky" and rough to have that be a best case.
3) I thought about losing it in the stash, viable option, but I would be sweaterless.
4) I nearly ripped back to the icord and started again.....
Finally- I decided to take a risk. This sweater is constructed with "steeking" . The sweater has stitches down the front that would later be cut through to turn a tube of knitting, into a cardigan. I looked at the twist. I found my lucky leopard scissors. I told myself "It's JUST knitting." Trust the process.
Then- I cut up my knitting. *gasp* Typically- you would steek after a garment is finished being knit, AFTER sewing a line of reinforcement stitches. But, I didn't have that much room. I held my breath after I cut. I picked it up. I looked at it. I had expected it to run like a cheap pair of nylons. It didn't.
I CAREFULLY untwist it. I started knitting, again. By george... I think I fixed it! I immediately graduated from "idiot" to "brilliant". Yet another reason to love knitting. Like a roller coaster of yarn.... one minute you're up... the next one you're down.... there is always another hill to climb!
Now I'm just hoping this excitement doesn't smite me on the backside by having all the stitches unravel before I can reinforce them......and praying that my guage doesn't result in a sweater of either mythic or microscopic proportions....... But- I can guarantee this--- no more smugness when I read the directions.
Smugness = Overconfidence. Confidence = appropriate risk... OVERconfidence= stupid mistakes.
Point learned. (I hope;)
What's a girl to do? Well- A vacation in a sunny spot would be nice.... but with pending college costs and thread-bare furniture... that just isn't a priority right now... so- instead- a little alternative medicine: The Kauni Cure. I ordered 4 balls of Kauni Yarn from Little Knits. It arrived and I've been winding it and playing with swatching. My plan is to knit the "Autumn Cardigan" Designed by Ruth Sorensen. Since I was once asked by a teen girl whether I was "goth" because I wear so much black.... it is safe to say these colors are a streeeeeeetch for me. But- at this time of the year- a little drastic color therapy is necessary. The Kauni is a true Shetland style wool. Very sheepy (read has bits of grass etc) and well not the softest thing ever, although I understand it softens up quite a bit after a nice long soak. This project is all about color- so we'll forgive the feel for now. This will include- "steeking" which involves taking a scissors to finished knitting and a number of other techniques that I haven't tried yet. Really--- I have no clue whether I can knit this or not- it may be entirely past my skill set. But- hey it's only yarn, it's only knitting- and Pushing Daisies won't be back until next year... I have to do something while my family watches "Don't forget the Lyrics" , "Deal or no Deal" (which I just can't stand , as no one wins and it's dumb luck.... no challenge no play-along-ability of yelling out answers or ANYTHING) and American Idol (which is sometimes ok, sometimes annoying- but not bad background music for knitting;) So- as a cure for the winter yuks, I'll be starting this sweater this weekend..... a fresh adventure to beat the winter blahs.... or a major knitterly crisis of identity--- who knows? Either way- should be fun to watch--- unless you want to join me in a little Kauni Cure- and knit along! Labels: autumn cardigan, colorwork, Kauni, knitting, scary, steeking
The weather has been YUK... Everyone here has been sick. Even the dog is sick of winter and she LOVES the snow. I've tried brighter light bulbs, looking at beach pic's (which just make me miss the beach) and denial. But-nothing is working. Like it or not- it's here-(and it's grey) the Winter doldrums. DUM DUM DUM.
Labels: "Body of Work", Christine Montross, knitting, Pirates Who Don't Do Anything, Veggie Tales
I just finished Body of Work, by Christine Montross.
The writing is fluent, full of both emotion and fact. (Something usually hard to balance.) It details a med-student's experience with her "assigned donor cadaver" in the anatomy lab. I found it offered great insight into the "making of a doctor."
The book delves into the history of scientific exploration of the body, as well as into our cultures experiences and perspectives on death, and the body, in general. It is quite descriptive, so the squeamish may struggle through this one.. However- as I admit I pass out over injections and need to be medicated for dental visits...the writing style keep me from losing it. A wonderful, insightful read that was intriguing and well done.
I look forward to reading more of Christine Montross' writing.
- the small print disclaimer: this book is not written from a Christian perspective... but that doesn't mean it didn't have some spiritual meaning to me;)
Now-for something entirely different- another review: (we go from one extreme to another here...)
Veggie Tales new movie: The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything
I will preface this by saying:
We love Veggie Tales.
Noah and Dad set out to see this movie on a "daddy date". Noah left the theater 3 times during the movie- "cause he was scared." He came back in because he " loves Veggie Tales and wanted to see the new movie".
Noah's review of the new movie was this: "I never thought Id be scared of a Veggie Tales Movie." Shaking his head in disbelief. There were scenes in the movie that may not bother some little guys- but bothered mine. (The cheeto's that turned into toothy worms, and sword stabbing's in particular, did him in) My DH didn't find anything objectionable about the movie- but found it a little more "intense" than what we've come to expect from Veggie Tales. (I replied it was a Pirate Movie.... so some pirating was to be expected...) I suppose my guys just assumed Veggie Tales could do Pirates without scariness.
I'd still recommend this one- as it may not bother other kiddo's- but if your's are very sensitive this one may not be for you. (Although, my guy watches the generally accepted age- appropriate cartoons and likes fighting and bad guys getting busted as much as the next guy- so I was surprised by his strong reaction to this.) There is so little decent media content ,that I want every movie that's appropriate for young ones to be well attended. and make the $ that will assure future clean movies... but- as a Mom- I also want to offer you a caution:
Where Pirates abound, some fear, could be found;) Arrrg.
Knitting:
Working on:
Mittens but currently madly finishing a pair of my hubby's favorite slippers (his do not have fun fur trim:) for Valentines day... better get back to work..... can't give them to him soggy wet from felting... (well- I CAN and I may if I have too! and he'll love them and me, anyways!... or rue the day he asked for more slippies!)
Labels: free knitting pattern, knitting, prayer request, Yarn Harlot
My I present the first set of "Unoriginal Hats"
In my artistic series- titled "unoriginal hats for all."
Sounds so much better than admitting to my OCD like tendancies are once again running free... but count them- 6 hats done! (bring on the Christmas knits!)
Clockwise from the top- Malabrigo Chunky in Olive for my middle son. (US size 10.5)
Malabrigo Worsted held doubled for my niece. (US 10.5)
Berroco Ultra alpaca haled doubled for hubby.
Paton's classic merino camoflage for my oldest. (size 11 he has a pumpkin sized head;)
Jaeger Natural fleece- for my FIL- us 11 should have gone down a size on this one.
And Lion brand chenille- size 11 should have gone down a size here too.
More hats in the queue- Malabrigo chunky in teal for my step dad....etc....these are quick and simple- but cute- sorry no one would model for me-- and well- I look like a dork in hat;) (hair too short- none sitcks out- makes me look bald;) which would be fine if I WERE bald... but I'm not and I have too much invested in hair dye to not let it be seen;)
Can you do me a favor- I have a few friends (a bunch actually) with health issues that could use prayer -- a young woman, a new mom, a dad, a pastor.. my SIL and well my hubby too--- seems like when it hist the fan--- it really hits the fan and spreads. thnx
ps the boy's face is still healing- looks like he's a foot ball player now- down to dark marks under his eyes a aross his nose.... what a month!
Labels: knitting, secret pal, sp 11
Amazon boxes on my porch are.. ummm.. not exactly a rare occurance. With one exception- I USUALLY know they are coming- and WHAT will be in them. Not this time!
A great surprise was inside! My SP 11 sent me 3- count them 3 knitterly surprises! 2 Debbie Macomber books- AND The First Book of Modern Lace knitting;) YES!
Thanks Sp 11- for rockin my day!
Hmmm what to knit what to knit.......;) Will keep you posted-
Labels: Debbie Mumm Yarn, knitting, pancakes, parenting, pity
The boy's face is healing. Unfortunately- the bruises look worse before they get better. It doesn't show well in the pic--- but let's just say, that in the battle with the coffee table- my little warrior was not triumphant.
No worries- he's certainly workin' the pity factor. I can barely look at him without feeling bad and like I should fix this boo-boo face- he is assured of pretty much whatever he wants. And he knows it.
Today- it was pancakes. "'N butter and syrup". He also wanted them to be "famous" and put on the blog. Hence the pancake post.
Yes- it made him feel better. He admits his face doesn't actually HURT, unless he pokes it. Stinker. Cute stinker, but stinker, just the same. 
As we are currently awaiting diminished bruising and swelling- a lot of knitting is getting done. I "Accidently" cast on another chevron scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts.
It's an experiment in yellow. I don't like yellow. But- I do like black..... so we're workin a bee/tiger thing here. It's a special gift for someone;) I'm using the Debbie Mumm Traditions Yarn available at Joann's. Using a US size 6 needle on this. Turning out quite nice.
More soon;) After the swelling goes down.
And the pity factor wears off. ;)
Labels: dpn holder, Jay Walker socks, knitting, monkey socks
I take knitting with me EVERYWHERE. In the car- to the store...the mall... everywhere.
Knitters know, the best travel knitting is small, portable and with a pattern that can be memorized. Socks, are perfect. Except for the DPN's poking through your bag and getting snapped in transit.
No more. This morning, on Ravelry- I found a new product made right here, in Michigan. The Knitzi. It's handmade from Great Lakes hardwood. each end simply screws on and off- a slit in the side keeps the knitting and the DPNs perfectly safe inside. No more snapped needles. I also ordered the Knitzi bag- which perfectly holds my knit in progress and knitzi- perfect for putting in my purse or knitting bag.
I have used other types of DPN holders. Elastic one with plastic caps- fine, but, I've also had them pop off while in my bag- resulting in lost and broken needles. The elastic has also lost it's stretch....
My new knitzi is quality. Hand finished- smooth and light. Available in loads of sizes and more styles are in the works.... I'll be popping in their site to pick up a few more- I have an SP who'll be needing one of these in her reveal pkg;)!
OK- I'm not affiliated or anything..... I'm just happy as could be with a new and innovative product- produced right here in Michigan! Besides- they kindly upgraded me to "pony express": shipping and a few hours after placing the order- my Knitzi was delivered to my front door! Turns out they are located within just a few miles of my house;)
I'm always impressed when an order I place online arrives within a week... this was remarkable;)
Go ahead- pop over for a visit--- you'll love them;)
And here's a bonus- a beautiful FREE sock pattern! Twinkleberries It's your gift for stopping by their site!
I'm sensing Twinkleberrry socks for Christmas!
Labels: BFL Blue Faced Leicester, Briar Rose, knitting, spinning
I think, Noah is an alpaca. He seems to be in love. He spent most of the afternoon "humming" to alpaca's.
We went to the Ann Arbor Fiber Expo on Saturday. I picked up a few fibery goodies- including some BFL Roving--- which nearly spins itself. Nice.
There is also some alpaca yarn in a nice lt brown natural color.
The center pic is Briar Rose Sea Pearl. Yum. Not pictured is Briar Rose Earth Song.
The top center- is a new pair of slippers to be felted for Mr. I'm trying a new pattern- a bit simpler than the FT pattern- will review after felting.
The Blue is handpaint BFL and Merino blend- earmarked for a special project.
The Fiber expo was great. Not so big as to be totally overwhelming. Was able to hit every vendor- (I think) As close to rhinebeck as I'll ever get;)
Noah also loved the angora bunnies---- but no animals came home with us. Although SOMEONE in the car smelled a bit like an alpaca......
I seriously doubt the "association" would appreciate farm animals. Just sayin.
I'm hoping to have some handpun- and hand knit Christmas prezzies complete soon. ;)
Labels: debbie mumm, knitting, mitered squares
Will someone please tell Michigan it's fall?
Weird. Leaves are covering the grass. The early morning sky is misty. It LOOKS like Fall. But opening the door is enough to baffle your brain. Although it's cold at night.... it's 87 degrees or higher during the day!
Indian Summer? Global Warming?
Who knows. I've decided to just close the windows- turn on the air and pretend it actually IS fall.
In honor of fall- I started a new knit project. Mitered Squares blanket. From Mason-Dixon Knitting.
I'm using a surprisingly happy find from Jo Anne Etc. A new yarn line: Jo-Anne's Debbie Mumm - "Traditions" In "Adirondack." I'll be alternating squares of this color- with other fall colors- reds burgundys and another colorway in greens.
The yarn is an acrylic/wool blend. Machine washable- colors are great. Like Noro without the vegetation. Or the itch. Softer. With sheen.
Will update the review after a few balls are knit up;)
So far- Thumbs up.
US size 6 needles
Labels: knitting, moths, spiders
While searching for my darning needle...to finish up a knitting project (shut up- you can't ever find one either) I opened up a knit bag I haven't used in a while. (hoping a long lost needle may be hiding there. There was.)Inside, I also found a tiny, tumorous mass of white stringy threads....it ripped as I opened the bag....tiny white eggs fell out. I had visions of marching off to buy a deep-freezer big enough to hold my whole yarn stash....(we're way past the freezer above the fridge size) I envisioned hours of shaking and beating....freezing and tossing.... (The time honored method of moth-egg removal from yarn).Then, I spied a nasty, huge SPIDER running over to bite me (and probably kill me or harm my knitting hand, I'm sure.) Instead of my typical "KILL IT NOW, don't ask questions!" response to spiders... I was relieved. Thrilled, actually. That it was a spider, and not a moth.Apparently knitting has cured my fear of spiders. However, I have developed a rampant, replacement fear of MOTHS!PS- no worries- my Dyson made short order of the knitbag invader. Although I think I'll have my teen son empty it's dust bin!
Knitting in short time increments, can still result in finished objects. Left: Chevron Scarf from Last Minute Knitted Gifts Yarn- Rio De La Plata sock wt in "Harbour Blue" Here-to-fore to be known as robin's eggs in the shade blue;) And Lavold Silky wool... in a color as close to birds nest as I could find. Yes- again with the eggs and nest theme....this time in knit! I did it for the "Inspired by Nature Knit Along" Right: Artyarns handpaint silk- "pink/orange" colorway and "olive green" I also finished the other chevron in artyarns silk- no Finished objects pic.... it was a special gift. I needed to get in the mail...for someone I know online going thru treatment for brain cancer. (Please pray for Heather......click the Pray for Heather button to the left for more of her story) I have been on an internet hiatus- (more like a self imposed grounding) my habits around online time had just gotten out of hand... it's like going down a rabbit hole- a couple of hours go by in the blink of an eye. I'm also having even more (worse) e-mail problems... hate that. Another bout of strep is also coursing through the house......looks like nice weather isn't going to the be cure. I REALLY HATE THAT. Last week it was the oldest- this week the little one. I am beginning to wonder if there is a streptococcus mary (or mark) among us... could one of us be a carrier? Could it be the cats? They've been known to like the kitchen faucet. (which I then, of course have to disinfect every 30 minutes or so...) And that is what's happening at my house.... how bout you? (End of incoherent update) Non-knitters look away! Quick. Knitters. Two of the Yarn Harlots books just became available on ITUNES! Yes---- listening to stories about knitting, while knitting! Fyi- Stephanie is both a fab knitter and excellant writer. Her writing draws you in, she is a writer and a knitter.... not a writer of knitting. I'm quite confident she could write on whatever topic she chose. Booksellers- stop selling this woman as a knitting book signing- its a BOOK signing. That is all. Going to administer more ibuprophen. Labels: chevron scarf, knitting, random domesticity
Labels: inspired by nature, kal, knit along, knitting
Hey! I started a new knit along..... (well .... knit alone at this point;) I posted the site about 5 minutes ago!
http://traceysolomon.wordpress.com/ What are the rules? What's the point?
See it. Get outside- yeah- wear a hat n sunscreen- you'll be ok. Look around! Find something beautiful, you want to capture in fiber!
Love it. Take a pic. Paint a pic... draw it.....or just remember it. whatever.
Find it. Start shopping- (could shop you're own stash- of course!) for a pattern and yarn that capures your favorite elements!
Knit it. Join the KAL and cast on--- post your progress... and ideas!
check it out- we're starting with a cashmere contest!
Labels: chevron scarf, knitting, president bush
Inspiring colors- captured in yarn.... I know--- enough with the eggs already..... a post about that obsession is in the works- but for now- yes I'm still knitting;) (in short bursts between cleaning tasks) The yarn- is Elizabeth Lavold Silky Wool (the brown_And Rio De La Plata Merino SOck in "Harbor Blue" Here-to-fore known as: "Robin's eggs in shade"
The silk chevron is still growing slowly.....
A quick chevron dishcloth! Had to actually FINISH something!
And, in true ADD Knitter style- a quick chevron dishcloth to grace my very clean, kitchen;) Sugar and cream cotton.... I adapted Domesticat's patternI used US size 7's - cast on 33- knit in pattern till I thought I'd run out of yarn.... then bound off on a wrong side row.. (so the ends would curl out the same way) As for the title of this post???? I mean literally. My knitting, met The PRESIDENT of the United States! To see the evidence: visit Katrina , she was my SP 9 pal t0 spoil.... During our round of SP... she sadly lost her police officer brother. Not knowing how else to help- I knit her a comfy shawl in deep purple KSH- in the "forest canopy" pattern...She went to DC for National Police week... and wore her gift- when she met the prez! Click over and scroll down to see the pic! Regardless of your politics- ya gotta admit that's pretty cool;)(Just hoping SS doesn't contact me to knit one for the prez....that wouldn't be right;) Although, I'm sensing something in a red white and blue theme there! Tacky, but patriotic!PS: Noah (the youngest bugger around here) has stopped asking why he smells "pool water." Apparently we're making progress in the housekeeping department- as the bleachy scent of toilet cleaning is now more recognizable than a trip to the pool.....;) Thanks "Flylady"
