Knittervention

2008-05-05T00:35:00.000-07:00

East Berlin, PA

East Berlin, PA is one of the most quaint small towns I've been to in a long while. I convinced D. to take a road trip from our stay in Washington, D.C. last week to go to The Mannings Handweaving School and Supply Center. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, the shop houses all the yarn, books, and weaving supplies you could ever want.

The store sprawls across several barnlike buildings, and as such, I spent a fair amount of time browsing. D. came prepared with his camera for the long haul, and took these shots of the grounds while I spent hours choosing just the right yarns.

We stopped at an authentic German restaurant on the way back - I wish I'd gotten pictures of it - the decor was like something out of a time warp - think Bavarian kitsch meets the 1970s. Although the piped in nonstop polka music was a bit unsettling, the food was decent, and the cold beer went down smoothly after a long day of yarn shopping.

2008-04-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

Lots of Weaving, Very Little Finishing

Finishing a project in weaving is the equivalent to sewing in all those pesky ends or seaming up a sweater in knitting. It takes forever, isn't fun to do, and everything shows if you rush through it.

So, even though I've taken several projects off of the loom in the last month, I've haven't gotten around to completely finishing them. I've still got a doubleweave table runner that needs me to weave in ends and wet finish, and a hand painted warp scarf that just needs to be hard pressed. I've also got zippered bags to finish sewing (many thanks to Sarah for volunteering to teach me how). My sewing skills are woeful!

I'm participating in a bookmark exchange later this year, and am in the process of weaving samples to test patterns. I'm always amazed at how many different variations a single warp can yield - below are two of my favorite samples. Although I don't think either of these will be the winning pattern, they were fun to weave (although I'm not sure what possessed me to use 14 colors of yarn in an inch and a half wide warp). Since I am a big reader, I'm sure they won't go to waste!

2008-03-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

Subtleties

Behold my latest weaving project (actually, there's been more weaving since, but I'm just now getting around to posting pictures of it).

I had hoped that once finished, the color gradation of this scarf would be a little more apparent. I like the way it turned out - it's just a little more subtle than I had anticipated.

For the warp, I chose two colors of hand dyed laceweight alpaca from Fearless Fibers. I have to say - I love this yarn!! It was dyed beautifully, and felt silky soft while weaving it up. I will definitely buy more from this Etsy shop in the future. I have to use up some of my weaving yarn stash first, though, before I can justify buying more yarn (although I do count my weaving yarn stash separately from my knitting yarn stash - it's a perfect excuse to double my allowable yarn quota!)

For the weft, I chose Yarn Place's Graceful cobweb weight wool in Summer Dusk. The pattern is simply plain weave with the warp colors sleyed in random order.

I had originally planned to use this yarn to knit a lace shawl, but after swatching decided that knitting with cobweb yarn was too ambitious for me, and it has sat in a basket ever since. I'm so happy I finally found a use for this yarn! There are a gazillion yards of it on the skein, so it's likely you'll see it again from me as this scarf barely seemed to make a dent in the ball.

My next project is already off the loom and I'm working on finishing it up over the next couple of days. I'm making zippered bags out of handwoven fabric (and I've never installed a zipper before). Thankfully, I wove enough fabric to make three bags so I've got lots of room for practice. Wish me luck!

2007-12-23T22:45:00.000-08:00

Flourishing Waves

Here's a picture of my latest weaving project. This is an overshot pattern called Flourishing Waves. The throw is a gift for a friend of mine who finds inspiration in designer Betsey Johnson. I figured the black, grey and hot pink would be right up her alley. The colors are a little bit brighter in person than they appear here.

You can also get a partial shot of my Macomber loom, built in 1953. It's hard to believe that it's still cranking more than 50 years after it was originally built. Looms have a way of being passed from weaver to weaver over the years. There is something quite appealing about knowing generations of women have woven on what's now my loom. I hope my friend enjoys this little bit of woven history!

2007-12-11T14:02:00.001-08:00

Fiber Addictions

I miss knitting. I miss the rhythmic feel of the yarn sliding through my fingers, stitch after stitch. What I don't miss is how incredibly long it takes me to finish a project. To satisfy my fiber addiction, and enable myself to finish a project once in a while, I've done a lot more weaving lately than knitting.

So, what have I been weaving over the last few months? Some of my projects have been Christmas goodies, so I can't show those for now. But, I did complete two projects I can reveal without ruining anyone's surprise...

I finished a set of lace tea towels:

I also wove a set of dishtowels for an annual dishtowel exchange held by http://www.homesteadweaver.com/. It was a lot of fun to exchange towels with weavers from all over the country. Here's a sampling of the towels I sent for the exchange - the colors were inspired by our trip this past summer to Tahiti:

Now that I'm looking at them - you can tell what color has drawn me in lately!! The project I'm working on now is black, grey and pink, so there is a departure from the colors of the sea in sight.

I've been such a bad blogger lately - keeping up with my adoption blog has kept me away from this one, but I'm going to try anew. There are a couple of projects in the Winter edition of Knitty that caught my eye. Hopefully, I'll be able to cast on as soon as I weave the last of my Christmas gifts off of my loom!

2007-05-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

7 Random Things

I've been tagged to do the "7 Random Things About Me" meme. Funny how when I read other folks' responses I realize I am more odd (and in some ways less) than I thought.

So here goes...

I must sit facing the room in a restaurant. I have asked friends, family, and people I've just met to get up and move to another chair to accommodate my need to sit with my back against a wall. Thankfully, my husband has learned to wait patiently while I choose a chair before sitting down.
I do not eat hamburgers. You can imagine how much difficulty this caused while growing up and attending barbecues.
I get motion sickness very easily. Very. To mitigate this, I usually drive with the air conditioning on full blast no matter what the outside temperature is. The resulting frigid car temperature does not usually pose a problem here in the desert.
I'm good at math. I suck at remembering geography. My husband always beats me at Trivial Pursuit because I can't ever seem to earn the blue wedge.
I have very little depth perception. I will walk right into something at eye level never having seen it. Being short greatly improves my odds of walking into something at eye level.
I like scrapbooking supplies. I don't really like to scrapbook. I have boxes and boxes of papers, embellishments, and tools I will probably never use.
My dream is to one day live close enough to the ocean so that when I open up my windows, I can hear the sound of the surf rolling in. I guess I'm a water bug at heart.

Tag - you're it! Tell me 7 random things about you....

2007-05-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

Almost Over

After four long months of construction, we are finally back in our house as I type this post. Boxes abound with items to put away and inches of dust have settled, but we are sleeping in our own newly delivered bed at last.

Now, all that's left is to figure out what I did with my Clapotis-in-progress. I know it's around here somewhere....

Thank you to all who offered words of support and encouragement over the last few months. Your love and friendship have made us feel blessed, indeed.

2007-03-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Delayed Gratification

My friends and family are the first ones to say it...I'm always late. It doesn't matter what time I get up in the morning, or how much time I allot to get ready, I'm still perpetually running behind. Not usually by a lot, but by enough to consistently not make it out the door on time.

So, I'm not surprised I'm late to the Clapotis party. Yes, two years after the pattern splashed itself all over the internet, I've finally decided to knit the ubiquitous wrap. I've been trying to talk myself into knitting Silvia Harding's Diamond Fantasy shawl, but with all that's been going on with the fire, I just can't wrap my head around knitting something I have to pay attention to. So, Clapotis it is.

I've got several hanks of Claudia Handpainted sock yarn in the Stormy Days colorway that I bought a while back (ahem, a long while). Nonetheless, I'm sure they'll be thrilled to be reincarnated into such a popular pattern (even if it's a bit tardy).

2007-02-26T16:18:00.000-08:00

Stitches West 2007

I know, I know - you are falling out of your chair right about now because this post actually is about knitting. Finally, huh?!?

Fact #1: A convention center chock full of yarn, needles, and related fiber arts paraphernalia = knitting nirvana.

Fact #2: Even a die-hard knitter gets tired after walking 250+ booths looking at skein after skein of handpainted yarn.

Fact #3. Die-hard knitter's husband who also walked 250+ booths without complaining even a little bit deserves a medal.

We had a great time at the convention (and in nearby Monterey), and are already making plans to go back next year. I managed to buy smartly (if a bit indulgently) and to stay (mostly) within the budget I set before I went. The goodies I bought included:

A gorgeous limited edition run of handpainted thick & thin spun wool/mohair in shades of purple and red from Brooks Farm. I would have walked out of there having chosen an "earthy" colorway, had two women buying more yarn than I can knit in several years not talked me into the brighter shade. They were right. I could have spent hours and a boatload of cash in this booth - there were so many beautiful yarns. Judging from the way the booth looked when we left for the day, some people did.
Handpainted tencel and handspun silk to weave into a scarf. Definitely a luxury item purchase (when will I wear a scarf in Arizona?), but the colors were so beautiful I couldn't pass it up.
Handturned rosewood knitting needles from Crown Mountain Farms - these beautiful needles feel as smooth as silk in your hands.
A Mama Bear tabletop swift. I've been wanting one of these for the longest time, but just hadn't convinced myself to buy one. My husband made the executive decision that he would rather shell out for the swift AND lug it home on the plane back to Arizona than be the makeshift "swift" for one more project. Problem solved.

Last, but not least, a funny little tidbit from the show .... Because of the disproportionate number of women to men attending, the event coordinators converted nearly every men's bathroom in the convention center into a ladies bathroom to handle the crowd. Which meant my hubby was SOL. It's a good thing he loves me.

2007-02-19T22:34:00.000-08:00

Small Miracles

So, the fire remediation service was responsible for cleaning the soot from every square inch of our house. Every horizontal and vertical surface from window blinds to the smallest knick knack was touched. Most of our stuff made it through the cleaning intact - most remarkably, my 150 pound floor loom. The cleaners managed to move the loom (with my latest project still on it!) from room to room twice, without breaking even a single warp thread.

I'm so relieved, as I'm stubbornly determined to finish weaving this smoky rug - it's currently 3/4 of the way completed - if only to have a souvenier of this crazy scary time. I'll post pictures of it once the contractors are done doing their thing and we can move back into the house - hopefully by the end of March.

2007-02-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

A Reason to Consolidate Your Stash in One Room

So, the remediation service swears to me that they'll be able to get the smoke smell out of all of my yarn. In what was almost a comedy, the crew chief says - can you show me where you have yarn you'd like to have cleaned? I walked around the house room by room, pointing at baskets and drawers, felted bowls and plastic bins, until he stopped and said - is there a room you don't have yarn in? Um...actually, no. Oh, wait - the bathroom (and that's burnt).

So, hopefully my stash will be saved. We're in temporary housing for a month or so while cleaners, contractors, painters and the like tromp in and out of the house hopefully making things better (or at least cleaner) than they were before. THANK YOU to all of you who posted comments and/or sent emails to my last post. Your support is a beautiful lifeline.

2007-01-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

Think About It

If you had to start your yarn stash over from scratch, how much of it would you purchase again?

That's the question I'm asking myself after what happened on Thursday. I came home from running errands and our house was on fire. Standing in our living room with smoke swirling around me was a surreal experience I hope to never go through again.

Faced with a split second decision of what to grab on the way out of the house, the bewildered smoky cats won out over my yarn stash. We ultimately lost two rooms and the entire house is smoke damaged (sadly, my stash smells like it's spent a good long time in a biker bar). Our new "normal" is living in a hotel with two kittens - quite an experience (and not one I'd heartily endorse). At this point we're not sure how long it will take to put the house back in a habitable state. I guess in looking on the bright side - there's not much to do in a hotel room - maybe I'll finally get some knitting done.

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

Yarn Extravaganza

I can't believe it's been almost a month since I've posted. It seems as though time keeps escaping from me but I'm not all that sure where it's going....The adoption is keeping me pretty busy these days - I'm moderating an agency support group for folks who were all logged in to adopt from China around the same time we are. It's a tremendous group of people and I've found some fellow knitters there. It's nice to know I won't be the only one lugging my yarn and needles to China!

In other news, my beloved hubby agreed to go with me to Stitches West this year. I've never been, but I've heard the market has yarn as far as the eye can see. I don't need more yarn, but the idea of so many choices in one place is irresistible. If anyone has any strategies for tackling the market in an organized way instead of my currently planned method of spinning around in sheer panic as I try to decide what to look at first, I'm all ears!

2006-12-19T23:05:00.000-08:00

Too Pretty to Get Dirty

Well, I haven't been knitting much lately, but I have been doing a fair amount of weaving. I've completed several Christmas presents, as well as the below dish towel for an impromptu dishcloth exchange (thanks, Susan!). Hemming the towels was also my very first experience using a sewing machine. Funny how difficult it is to sew a completely straight line....

Next I'll be warping up my loom for a new rug for my kitchen. The colors I chose don't really match anything I have, but they make me happy every time I look at them. And at the end of the day, isn't that what it's all about?

2006-12-08T14:43:00.000-08:00

Slump

I haven't been knitting lately. I don't know why. Knitting thrills me, calms me, inspires me, and generally makes me a happier person. So why haven't I been doing it? Oh, how I wish I knew...

I've got more yarn than I know what to knit with. I've got a ton of patterns I want to knit. So, why oh why have I hit a slump? My needles have grown lonely...

So, last night in the spirit of "fake it 'til you make it" I forced myself to sit down and work on an unfinished project I am no longer enamored of.

Behold photos of my as-of-yet unfelted fair isle Sophie bag. All it needs now is me to make a decision on what kind of handles to put on it. I know I don't want to knit i-cord handles, so I'm thinking about making handles out of layered or braided ribbon. Hopefully, this handle experiment is just the kick in the a** I need to get knitting again...

2006-11-23T23:45:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!

As I sit here thinking about the holiday and all that it represents, I am reminded of how many things in my life I am truly thankful for. Some of them are tiny everyday occurrences, and some of them dwarf me as they swallow my heart whole.

Either or, there are so many things I am grateful for that I can't hold them all in my two hands. As my thanks spill out around me, may you find a river of appreciation streaming over you tonight. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all.

2006-11-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

Have you?!?

2006-10-30T22:44:00.000-08:00

Does Fabric Solicitation Count As Knitting?

Ok, this isn't really a knitting-related post. So, you might just want to skip right on over it and wait for the next one. I've been weaving a ton, so soon there will be a finished project post to feast your eyes on.

Until then, I've also been working on getting a "100 Good Wishes Quilt" started. As most of you know, I'm knee deep in the process of adopting a little girl from China. When a child is born in China, there is a tradition of quilt making called Bai Jia Bei, or 100 Good Wishes Quilt.

To celebrate a new life, family and friends donate to the child's mother fabric scraps from old clothing accompanied by a heartfelt wish for the baby, from which the Bai Jia Bei is then made. It is said that the luck, energy and good wishes from all of the families and friends who contributed fabric surround the child when she is wrapped in the quilt. The quilt is then passed down from generation to generation as an heirloom, forever generating warmth and love.

I would love to collect fabric squares from my knitting friends - your support has meant so much to me all throughout this adoption. If you are interested in participating, drop on over to my 100 GWQ blog to find out more.

2006-10-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

A Friendly Competition

Even though I decided not to participate in SP9, I will take Heatherly up on her contest offering...answer to my questions are below...

1. Where is your favorite knitting spot?

Curled up on my couch, with my kitties and my husband, all of whom want to help.

2. If you suddenly could never knit again (shudder) - what would you do instead?

This is a tough one to even think about, but thankfully I have enough other hobbies (weaving, stained glass), that one of them would take my mind off what a huge loss not being able to knit would be.

3. If you could travel anywhere in the world - where would you go and why?

Another tough one - there are so many places in the world I've never been. So, I'll throw out some contenders....Ireland (to tour the castles), Italy (to tour the countryside), or Paris (to tour the Louvre).

4. When you were little - What did you want to do "when you grew up?" Are you doing it?

Well, for a while there I thought I wanted to be a neurosurgeon. But, as with most dreams of six year olds, I didn't really think about what it would take to get me there. Life took over, and that dream matured into being a writer. I'm still working on that one.

5. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Dulce de Leche or Coffee.

2006-10-14T00:54:00.000-07:00

Fated

Today was definitely Friday the 13th for me. Met my DH for breakfast downtown. Argued over where we should park. It went a little something like this...

Me - "No, don't park in the lot, there's a sign indicating 'Permit Only'."

DH - "The lot's mostly empty - I'm sure it will be fine."

Me - "We don't have a permit. It makes me nervous. Can we just park on the street?"

And so we park on the street. And when we come out, lo and behold, there's a parking ticket on the windshield. Evidently, after all the cautious contemplation of the dangers of the lot, we carelessly parked against a Buses Only curb. Sigh.

It's the first parking ticket (or any ticket for that matter) that I've ever gotten. The only sweet spot? Cars in the lot were ticketed, too.........wait for it..........for not having a permit.

2006-09-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

Overwhelmed

Whew - I've been a terrible blogger lately (and knitter, too, for that matter). It seems as though I've had a lot going on, none of which has left me with the time or emotional space for knitting.

The last two weeks have been a whirlwind of adoption paperwork, of which I am happy to say is finally completed and sent off to our agency for critical review and translation. It feels like a big weight off of my shoulders to have this stage of the adoption finished at last.

The new kitties have come complete with their share of new kitten issues - training, grooming, vet visits, etc. They are cute, but also a lot of work!! Having three cats in the house has been a bit of an adjustment - it seems as though everywhere you look there's a little furry tail disappearing under something. Note to self - when choosing a kitten next time, choose white - black kitties collect dust something awful.

I did accomplish a FO this past week - a snowy white feather and fan baby blanket. Which would be more of an accomplishment if I'd actually finished the border I started to go with it. Somehow I calculated I needed 45 repeats of the border to go all the way around the blanket. All excited that I was almost through, I blocked it out when I got to 41 repeats, anxious to see how it looked. And then was promptly crushed that I'd mis-measured, and I really had at least 12-15 more repeats to go. Which couldn't happen, because the blanket was required for a blessing ceremony and my time to knit it was up. So, blanket was gifted sans border, and I have a hella stack of border for a future project...

So, that about sums up my lapse in posting time. Next on my knitting list is a cardigan for our future daughter. I'm also part way through warping a rag rug for a fellow adoptive mom's nursery. Hopefully, I'll have pictures of finished objects (or at least projects in progress) to post soon!

2006-09-11T09:14:00.001-07:00

Twice the Love

Meet the newest members of our family. We had the best intentions of only bringing home one kitten, but somewhere in the car on the way over we convinced each other that two would be a good idea. When added to our Maine Coon, it seems like a lot of cat in a small house, but their cute little faces are worth it. So, without further adieu, meet "Demo" and "Derby".

As black Persians, they'll look a lot like this when they reach adulthood. Right now, they are still little puff balls of purr and fur....

2006-09-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

Weaving Project #2

Finally, another WIP crossed off the list - draped across my birthday present to me (a loom!) is my second completed weaving project (I'm counting it as a FO even though I still have to knot off all the ends, bead and twist the fringe, then wash and block it).

As a beginning weaver, I feel a little bit like I did when I learned to purl. You remember that moment, don't you? You're feeling all confident that you finally got the knit stitch down, and it's even looking like something you could be proud of, and then someone comes along and teaches you to purl and you're back to square one, cursing your rumpled, curling stockinette swatch. My weaving tension is a little wonky in parts and I had a couple of repairs to make when I took the runner off of the loom, but after almost 8 feet of weaving (and more hours of learning curve than I care to admit), I'm pleased with how my design came out.

2006-08-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Secret Pals Revealed

It's that time again - Secret Pal rounds are ending. I've had two terrific pals, each unique and special in their spoiling in their own way.

My Blogger SP8 pal revealed herself from across the pond. Amber is a mixed media artist who makes unique elemental dolls. How honored I felt to receive one of her incredible dolls in my final package!! She also sent me this beautiful handmade heart, which is now hanging from my computer desk so I can see it every day. Rounding out the package was yarn - oh, the yarn! Colinette, angora, hand-dyed laceweight and the list goes on... Making the package more special is the fact that Amber is going through a tough time right now. Even though she's struggling, she took the time to create, just for me. And that makes a pal feel truly special. Stop by her blog and check out her work!

My Knittyboard Secret Pal final package also came to me from across the pond, but in a different way. My pal sent me tea that traveled with her to the States all the way from London, along with some yummy looking Mexican hot chocolate mix. I can't wait to try them! Also in the package was origami paper, a picture frame, and wonderful feltable wool. Lastly was Found, a fascinating book I've been wanting to get my hands on for some time. I took it out of the package, squealed with delight, and immediately sat down to read it. Just like a cat, my husband shimmied up to see what all the excitement was about and so I left him with the book to get a drink. When I came back, he was curled up on the couch reading away, gripping the book's spine like a two year old unwilling to share. Several hours later, I got my book back with a request from him to thank my pal for "a cool book!". So, Nicole (Qeltic), thanks for a great read. But there's more - thanks for being such a terrific pal - the ecards, emails, gifts and blog comments have all made me feel like a princess. Consider me terribly, wonderfully spoiled.

2006-08-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Me

There's no better gift than a birthday card from my nephew in all of it's chubby-fingered, hand-printed, well-scribbled on glory!

Leave it to a two-year old to help me forget growing older while reminding me of what's really important in life :-)

2006-08-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Temporarily Grounded

Thanks to each and every one of you for your thoughts and encouragement regarding our decision to possibly move overseas. I really enjoyed reading about your move experiences, and appreciated your insight into the highs and lows of foreign relocation.

Sadly, after making contact after contact with immigration officials, adoption resources, and other adpoptive families, we have come to the conclusion that moving overseas during an adoption is perhaps ill-advised. Completing an adoption as an American living abroad can definitely be done, but issues surrounding visas, residency, renewal of expiring forms, finding a U.S. licensed social worker in a foreign country, citizenship, etc. all complicate what is a difficult process even while living here in the States. Although we have not decidedly ruled moving out, it may be wiser to do it a little further down the road. Like, after we have a room full of baby furniture to move, too.

2006-08-09T16:19:00.000-07:00

21 Again

Some years ago (ok, more than some), my hubby and I made the rash decision to pack up our stuff, jump in a car, and move across the country for me to go to school. Chalk it up to the impetuousness of youth - we'd never been there before - just chose the school based on the program's reputation and pretty pictures in a brochure. We had no jobs, not much money, and no place to live. It was one of the most terrifying, yet satisfying, things we've ever survived (and at the time, we swore we'd never do it again).

Funny how things come 'round full circle....hubby and I are thinking about it once more. An opportunity for change has presented itself, and it would mean a leap of faith, of reason, a tossing into the air of pretty much everything we've ever known. So, now we weigh the choices... could we? vs. should we? vs. hell yes.

If you had an opportunity to move to a foreign country, away from everything and everyone familiar to you, would you?

2006-07-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

I WON!!!

I never win anything. Just not that sort of lucky, I guess. So, what a surprise it was to win Jenn's Secret Pal 8 Mini-Questionnaire contest! And the prize? A hank of Socks that Rock yarn!

I chose the Crazy Lace Agate colorway, since it just looks happy to me (and it has my favorite color - orange - in it). I've never tried this yarn before, but I've heard wonderful things about it. Can't wait to see (ahem...fondle) it in person! Thanks, Jenn!!

2006-07-24T14:32:00.000-07:00

SP8 Mini-Questionnaire

Here we are at about halfway through the SP8 round. My hostess, Jenn, has asked her group to participate in the below mini-questionnaire as a way for our pals to further get to know us. So, here goes...

1. What is your favorite season of the year and why?

Autumn, by far. I love the cool, crisp weather (well, this happens in most parts of the country, I hear), and the promise of the holidays still to come bringing with them good food, family and celebratory traditions.

2. Summer is hot. What do you knit in the summer?

It's hot here all year round, so I knit the same things in the summer that I do the rest of the year. I just glisten a little more. Oh, and I stay away from single ply wool, since it felts in my hands in the warmer weather.

3. If money was no object.....what would you buy at the LYS?

On a large scale - an 8 harness floor loom. On a more manageable scale - more books (since I currently have more yarn than I have patterns). Unless, of course, we're saying that my LYS carries Koigu....

4. What are some activities that have become family traditions for your family?

Hmmm...most of our current traditions center around food - holiday dinners, trying new restaurants, etc. I think once we have a child, we'll be more focused on building traditions as a family.

5. What is the weather right now?

Hot. Yesterday was 114 degrees. Which was cooler than the day before.

2006-07-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

My Secret Pal Cup Runneth Over

An incredible package arrived yesterday from my knittyboard.com Secret Pal. In a true understanding of what my life is about right now, she focused on two areas: Knitting and Motherhood. Cradled in skeins of beautiful merino yarn, treasures supporting the theme of a belated "Mother's Day" filled the box. As such, I thought it was only appropriate to post about them on my adoption blog. So, head over here to check it out!

Secret Pal, here's a very big THANK YOU for such an amazing gift!

2006-07-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

FYS = Foreign Yarn Stores

One of the best things about taking a vacation is checking out new yarn stores. My ever patient hubby, and very enthusiastic mother in law agreed to accompany me to two yarn stores on our recent trip to Chicago/Iowa. Now, there seem to be a gazillion yarn stores in the Chicago metro area, so choosing just two to visit was a difficult task (made infinitely easier by aforementioned hubby pointing out where we were going on the map and saying "make them close").

Our first stop was String Theory Yarn Company in Glen Ellyn, IL. By the time we made it through Chicago rush hour traffic to the shop, it was a half hour before closing time. Still, our salesperson was incredibly friendly, talkative and more than willing to peruse books in search of yarn/pattern combinations for me. I picked up a hank of Schaefer Laurel in the Rachel Carson colorway, which is slated to become the perfect lemon-lime toddler sweater.

Next stop was Loopy Yarns in downtown Chicago. Since I didn't check store hours before we went, we spent a bit of time sitting on the front stoop of the store listening to the trains go by waiting for the store to open. Our salesclerk was decidedly less friendly than we had experienced at String Theory (well, really, than we had experienced pretty much anywhere), but the selection of yarn was incredible. Lots of yarns that I've only read about within reach to see and fondle in person. I immediately threw my promise to myself of "I'll only buy yarn I need" out the window and selected a skein of the most gorgeous laceweight I have seen in a while. I have enough lace patterns lined up to last a lifetime (even if I knit them full time!), so choosing just one to suit this beautiful yarn will be difficult.

I also finally found a pattern for a toddler cardigan that will work with the Inca natural cotton yarn I bought at a show recently. Still isn't the hoodie pattern I was hoping to find, but I think it will do. All in all, it was a great trip!!

2006-06-21T21:41:00.000-07:00

Weaving Wannabe

Six beginning weaving classes do not a weaver make. That said, I had a lot of fun learning to weave, and have signed up to take another class. Why, I'm not really sure, since I have absolutely no floor space in my home to house a loom if I ever decide to pursue weaving in a more in-depth way. Still, I very much enjoyed it and am looking forward to learning more!

Dye-O-Rama = Wow-O-Rama!!!

Earlier this week I received my swap package from my Dye-O-Rama pal, Liz. Liz sent me the most beautiful Koigu-esque hand dyed yarn in shades of eggplant, gold and green. Also in the box were point protectors, a gorgeous journal, and the prettiest notecards you've ever seen. Thanks, Liz, for sending such wonderful treasures!!

2006-06-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

Thrice Blessed

Yesterday was a day filled with knitting abundance. Not one, not two, but three wonderful gifts graced my doorstep from my fiber friends inside the computer. Although no pictures to post at the moment (my camera phone is charging), I didn't want to wait another minute to properly thank all of my pals for their thoughtfulness.

Knittyboard Secret Pal - My pal has been tremendous, sending me e-cards every week (sometimes more than one!). I hope she knows that her kind words, funny notes, and all of those goofy cards make me feel incredibly spoiled. To receive an actual package was just icing on the cake! Treasures inside the box included Elegance and Alpaca Cloud yarn from Knit Picks, both of which I've been wanting to try. Other goodies were yummy smelling candles, relaxing bath salts and a beautiful card. Lastly, a copy of Elizabeth Zimmerman's Knitting Without Tears. What a wonderful gift!
A Blog Thing - I enjoy tinking with blog templates (any excuse to play with color and design). Some time back, I helped SP8 hostess Nicol out with her blog. Much to my surprise, she sent me a thank you - Nicky Epstein's Knitting on the Edge and Knitting Over the Edge. She couldn't have known that earlier this week, I had to return my copies of these books to my local library, having renewed them the maximum number of times. I was just a day away from breaking out the wallet to buy my own. Nicol, your generous expression of gratitude deserves its own very sincere Thank You!!
KRSP in NYC - Last but not least, my Knitters Review pal sent me a very special treasure - a copy of Wendy Knits. Not just any copy, but one signed by Wendy herself!! Mary, this is the perfect addition to my ever-growing knitting library!

I feel so blessed to have "met" such gracious, thoughtful people while sharing a hobby I love. What a lucky woman I am, indeed.

2006-06-14T10:41:00.000-07:00

Secret Pal, Eh?

I received my final "reveal" package from my Knitters Review Secret Pal today. My Pal was Monika, who sent a box full of Canadian-themed goodies my way. Not only were the treats from Canada, but she took the time to wrap each item individually in scarlet and white tissue, complete with miniature Canadian flags!

Inside the box were candies, stickers, a great little project bag, a stuffed bear, and best of all, this beautiful yarn! It's Handmaiden Sea Silk, an incredibly soft blend of Silk and Seacell. I wonder how she knew this yarn has been on my "must get my hands on some" list? Monika, the colorway you chose is absolutely perfect! Thanks so much for being my KRSP!!

2006-05-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

I HAVE TEA!!!

My package arrived from my Knitters Tea Swap pal today. My pal Lisa put together the most wonderful gift for me! Goodies included loose tea from her favorite tea shop, cinnamon cookies, and sour ball candy (which have already been consumed - ask my hubby where most of them went). Last but not least was gorgeous yarn in beautiful shades of green. I can't wait to settle in with a good book and a cup of my super special tea. Thanks so much to my tea swap pal for such a terrific package!

In other news, as promised....pics below are of skeins from my first dye session ever...my camera phone doesn't reproduce colors well, so immerse yourself in their colorway names instead: "Merlot Sky" and "Misty Dune". I enjoyed dyeing so much I've already stocked up on more yarn to give it another go. I'm hoping with a bit of practice I'll be able to tangibly reproduce what I can only visualize at this point....

2006-05-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

Dye O Rama Update

I finally had time this weekend for my first attempt at hand dyeing a skein passable enough to send to my Dye O Rama Pal. Three hours later, I learned two lessons:

Nothing ever turns out quite like you imagined it would in your head. With any luck, at least 50% of the time it will be better.
Absolutely every surface you look at while dyeing will become covered in dye, whether you remember touching it, or not.

Tonight, my kitchen has been cleaned, my stained fingers have been scrubbed, and my first two hanks are drying. Pictures to follow soon. Hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend!

2006-05-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

Knitting Zoo

A Secret Pal exchange is much like a zoo. We're all confined by the same rules, arbitrarily matched with a caregiver and hoping for food. Yet, when you look beyond the bars, each of our personalities gleam with an individual glow that is solely our own. Now that Secret Pal 7 is over, I've had some time to reflect on what a diverse group we knitters are.

Part of my duties as hostess involved reading 80+ blogs on a regular basis. There were knitters, crocheters, general crafters and those who I never could quite figure out what they did. There were stories of marriages, divorces, babies, and the occasional nervous breakdown. Pictures depicted knitted sweaters, scarves, socks, and lots and lots and LOTS of Booga bags. Folks defined themselves as students, housewives (and husbands!), writers, artists, and business women. Some participants blogged with enthusiasm, while others tried their best to catalog their days into occasional words. Gifts aside, most everyone simply hoped their spoiler would reach out to them every so often with a kind word.

I learned a lot as a hostess. Organization, attention to detail, and more than a little patience come to mind. Mostly though, I learned about people. How to manage conflicting expectations, differing tastes, and methods of communication. How to reassure folks who are waiting, how to encourage folks who are trying, and how to gently admonish folks who have faltered. All in all, it was quite a gig. Best of luck to the zookeepers of SP8!!

2006-05-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

SP8 Questionnaire

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

I prefer knitting with soft, natural fibers (merino, alpaca or silk). I am also crazy about handspun yarns that are textural – the nubbier, slubbier the better. I am always on the lookout for new handspun/painted/dyed yarns from smaller distributors/farms. I usually steer clear of acrylics and novelty yarns (although they do have their occasional uses).

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

I have a beautiful needle case, but I still store my needles in a big ziplock bag - I like the see-through-ness of the bag – if I can’t see it, I forget I have it. I'd love to get my hands on an Ashland Sky Knit Stick Sack.

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

Advanced beginner to intermediate – I know how to knit scarves, socks, and hats. I can felt a bag, knit cables and have tried my hand at lace. I'm working on my first adult sized sweater. Truthfully, I think I could knit 20 years and still consider myself a beginning knitter - to truly know the craft takes a lifetime.

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

Amazon list under "tocspaw" - http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/ref=cm_gft_sub_wl/104-1778803-5483155?%5Fencoding=UTF8"

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

I like lavender, citrus, and things that smell like rain.

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

I’m a candy junkie (faves are Sweettarts, Nerds, Smarties, Skittles, Starbursts). I love chocolate, too (although shipping chocolate to the Arizona desert intact might be a challenge). Please don’t send chocolate or coffee with flavored with nuts, though, due to severe allergies.

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

I enjoy pretty much anything crafty (fiber arts, paper arts, etc.). I also work with various metals (silver, copper) forming jewelry/vessels, as well as with glass (stained glass, lampworking). I don't spin yet but I received a drop spindle as a gift so it's on my list of things to learn. I'm also taking a weaving class right now.

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

I am a music nut, have a bazillion CDs and am always looking to listen to something new. My tastes are a bit eclectic - alternative music, some pop, some new age instrumental, some opera. Pretty much anything but hip hop, rap, or country. My computer can play MP3s (I also have an I-pod).

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?

I love most earth tones and deep jewel tones – particularly brick reds, golds, deep greens, teals and purples. My least favorite shades include bright primary colors and pastels (baby blue, pale pink, mint green, etc.).

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

I'm married to my high school sweetheart; currently we are in the process of adopting a daughter from China. I have a polydactyl Maine Coon kitty who's two years old in every sense of the word.

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

I live in the desert, so sadly, I don’t have much of a need for warm clothing. Inexplicably, that doesn’t stop me from knitting it. Now if it would just get cold enough to show it off…

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

Lately, I’ve been knitting a little bit of everything - lace, socks, felting. I usually have one or two involved projects going on, and at least one I can knit in front of the TV.

13. What are you knitting right now?

A baby blanket for a friend (which I'm frantically trying to finish before her daughter makes her debut!)

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Love it!! There is nothing better than receiving a gift that someone put their heart and time into, imperfections and all.

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

It depends on the project – I've got needles of all types that I use for different things.

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

I own a yarn winder, but not a swift.

17. How did you learn to knit?

I took a class at my LYS.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?

I finally finished my oldest UFO and shipped it off to the Red Scarf Project. My next oldest UFO is a crocheted blanket that I started before I learned to knit. I'm hoping to finish it up one of these days as soon as I can remember how to work the pattern.

19. What is your favorite holiday?

Thanksgiving.

20. Is there anything that you collect?

Teas
Hand-blown glass Christmas ornaments
Prisms
Unusual baskets
Things that sparkle, dangle, or look especially cool in miniature

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

Books: My knitting library is pretty bare - the field of books I don’t have is wide open. See my Amazon list for wish ideas.

Yarns: I would like to try yarns from Mystical Creations and Brooks Farm, as well as Collinette Giotto, Koigu, Morehouse Merino, Alchemy Haiku, Diakeito Diamusee and Artyarns Ultramerino.

Patterns:
Silvia Harding - Diamond Fantasy Shawl
Silvia Harding - Shetland Garden Faroese Shawl
Fiddlesticks - Lotus Blossom Shawl
ChicKnits - Ribby Cardi
La Lana Patterns - The Wings of the Swan Ruana (as seen in INKnitters Fall ‘04)
Veronik Avery's Shawl Collar Cardigan pattern (Spring 2004 Interweave Knits)
Jaeger's Lily sweater pattern (JB40)

Needles: I’d love to try Lantern Moon ebony needles, but I’m too cheap to buy them for myself. DPNs in sizes larger than 4.

Miscellaneous: Susan Bates Wafer Thin stitch markers, Brittany cable needle

I have a subscription to Interweave Knits.

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

Does how to knit faster so I could finish a WIP some time this year count? If not, I'd like to try Entrelac, and improve my finishing techniques.

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

I do enjoy knitting (and wearing!) socks. I don’t know my exact foot measurements, but I wear a size 6 shoe (foot is approximately 9” long), and I like the cuff to be about 6” high.

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

August 16.

2006-04-28T17:48:00.000-07:00

Living Vicariously

Am I the only one out there who spends more time on the 'net immersed in knitters' blogs, researching yarn, or hunting for new patterns than they do actually knitting? If I spent as many hours knitting as I do in deciding what to knit next, I might actually finish a project once in a while...why does this feel dangerously close to addiction?

2006-04-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

Turtles, Turtles, Everywhere

For the last couple of months, I have been incredibly spoiled by my Knitty Secret Pal. I received my last package this week, and as usual it was full of wonderful goodies!! My Pal sent two skeins of pastel variegated yarn, point protectors, holders for DPNs, notecards, and candy.

In addition, she did what no secret pal has ever done for me.....she knitted me a gift!! As a hint to her identity, my pal made this turtle washcloth for me, and filled it with the most wonderful smelling soap! I've been trying for some time now to figure out her identity, and despite her repeated attempts at giving me clues even a two year old could probably figure out, I was unsuccesful in guessing who she was. It took this literal turtle to clue me in to my pal's Knitty moniker:

turtlegirl76

I'm so glad I finally know her true identity so I properly and publicly thank her for being such a terrific pal. What a wonderful experience Knitty's SP6 has been!!

2006-04-21T13:03:00.000-07:00

A New Swap in Town

I've never done it but I'm "dyeing" to try it (ok, bad pun, but please continue reading). Swap mammas Cookie, Monica, Noelle and ScoutJ have teamed up to hostess a new hand dyed yarn swap. Signups only last until 6 p.m. tomorrow (4/22), so head on over to http://www.dyeorama.scoutj.com/ and check it out!

2006-04-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

Yarn Porn

I received my final package from the Secret Pal 7 gift exchange yesterday, beautifully wrapped in purple and teal tulle. Inside was a little piece of my pal, embedded in the twist of three gorgeous hanks of handspun yarn!! My pictures don't convey how pretty the colors of this yarn are, or how absolutely touchable it is. This is the second time she has made something especially for me - how spoiled I feel!! Also included in the box were some yummy bath products and fun magnets. Lastly - a very special card finally revealed who my pal actually was....Stacey, of www.madebyewe.blogspot.com, did such a wonderful job pampering me during SP7 - I hope she knows how appreciated she is!!

2006-04-05T10:39:00.000-07:00

punkrawker86

Last week, a friend in my online knitting community passed away suddenly. There were no warning signs, no indicators, no flashing lights to let me know that our last email exchange would be the last we'd ever have. I didn't find out until a few days after she died. Her mother requested that condolences be sent via email rather than snail mail as a kind of tribute to and from all the knitting friends who's lives she had touched across the web.

It was difficult to put words to what I was feeling in an email. What do you say to a mother that has just lost her child at a very young age? What mere words would adequately convey to her that her daughter had worth in this life, that she was loved? In the end, I penned a few heartfelt phrases expressing gratitude and loss and hit the Send button. Does it really matter what you say if you can't bring her back?

2006-04-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Wonders Never Cease

Sometimes beacons of hope shine through in the most unlikely of places... These are pictures of a bearded iris blooming in our backyard. This is notable for two reasons:

We live in the desert - iris aren't exactly native vegetation;
The plant has been nothing but a bunch of scraggly leaves for FOUR years. It has never bloomed since we put it in the ground. Not once.

At last, a sign that our tide is finally turning....

2006-03-30T23:57:00.000-08:00

Last Day of Secret Pal 7

A bittersweet day...it's the last day of the Secret Pal 7 gift exchange. I've had such a fun time hostessing the exchange I'm sad to see it end. It's also been such a terrific experience getting to know my pal that I'm tempted to not give her up to the next round!

Speaking of the next round, Secret Pal 8 is starting up very soon. I have decided not to hostess this round (since the adoption paperchase is taking up most of my spare time), but the hostess group for SP8 is a wonderful group of people. Head on over to www.secretpal8.blogspot.com to get instructions on how to sign up!

2006-03-27T09:04:00.000-08:00

New Adoption Blog

Thanks to all my knitterly friends for putting up with my adoption related posts. I'm now working on a new blog which will chronicle the steps of our adoption. It's still a work in progress, but check it out - I hope you'll follow our story as we journey to meet our daughter.

www.hopesglow.blogspot.com

In other news, we went to a Families with Children from China potluck over the weekend, and the hosting family showed a video of their trip to China to pick up their daughter. It was incredibly moving, and a quick glance around showed there wasn't a dry eye in the room. There's nothing quite like watching tears well up in your husband's eyes and feeling him squeeze your hand in excitement at the journey to come. Some things just make you fall in love all over again.

2006-03-23T10:28:00.000-08:00

Secret Pal Blessings

I'm participating in a couple of different knitting exchanges, and through mere luck of the draw, I am thankfully blessed to have two of the best secret pals in the world. In mysterious synchronizing, I received a package from each of them last week only a day apart. And, both boxes were treasure troves of goodies more than worth bragging about!!!

Secret Pal 7

My SP7 pal is a spinner. I've been dying to learn how, so she sent me a homemade drop spindle and carded wool to play with, along with suggestions on how to get started. The box was also filled with other trinkets, pins and labels and fun note pads. Best of all, my pal created a handmade knitting journal, using scrapbooking techniques and pictures of my crazy kitty and FOs off my blog to customize the cover and inside just for me. What an incredible gift! (P.S. Loved the Pucca stickers!!)

Knitty SP6

In addition to a gorgeous set of beaded stitch markers, my Knitty SP6 pal sent me a yummy skein of merino yarn to try handpainting with. It's joint show-and-tell time when we're done, since this will be a first attempt for both of us at dyeing yarn. She also sent me a couple of books on adoption, one of which is The Lost Daughters of China. Although she worried about this part of the gift - she needn't have - the sentiment was, and is, very much appreciated. I've had my eye on this book for some time - I'm looking forward to reading it. Lastly, a grass head. Yes, I'll be growing my own little oasis in the desert on a head. It's progress will no doubt merit a post with pictures in the future.

It continually amazes me how generous the knitting community can be. Thanks to both of my pals for such wonderful, thoughtful gifts!!!

2006-03-16T14:53:00.000-08:00

Glad It's a Girl

I think when you parent a little girl, you must agree to the following tradeoff - drama your entire lives together for the fun of shopping for her when she's little. I intend to enjoy the shopping as much as possible now (I still haven't forgotten what it was like to be twelve). That being said, we are trying to not to buy anything until all of our adoption paperwork has been logged in. Thankfully, that doesn't keep us from accepting gifts from those around us who are as excited about our adoption as we are.

Behold - our daughter's (wow, that feels a bit overwhelmingly emotional to write) first crocheted gift! The picture is a bit blurry due to the fact that it's impossible to push the shutter button on my camera phone without moving the lens, but you get the idea. This dress was made by a friend of mine who's starting her own business making crocheted christening dresses and matching accessories. I couldn't help but cry as I gently handled the ribbons and lace, imagining all the possibilities to come and knowing that our daughter will be surrounded by love. Thanks, Kristen, for a truly wonderful gift!!

2006-03-08T20:02:00.000-08:00

Let Them Eat...

My sister in law makes the best chocolate cake I've ever tasted. Never mind that she says most of it comes from a box. Secret ingredients aside, the stuff's sinful. And years ago, I asked her to bake me one when we finally got pregnant to commemorate the occasion.

We traveled to visit my family this last week. On our agenda for the visit - telling everyone of our adoption plans. We've been keeping it a secret until we could spill the beans in person. So, imagine my surprise and confusion when we walked into my brother's home and spotted a coveted chocolate cake sitting on the counter. I looked at my sister in law, she looked at me, and I knew that somehow she just knew we'd made a decision. Not a word needed to be spoken as we held each other and cried. I don't know who's luckier - my brother - or me.

2006-02-28T14:10:00.000-08:00

Chills

I told a friend recently about our decision to adopt from China. She emailed me today and posed this possibility:

If it takes about a year to adopt from China, and we're expecting a little girl around a year old, and we're starting the process right about now, did I realize that our daughter could be born any moment?

The very thought of it sent goosebumps up my arm. Somehow my friend's comment made things all the more real for me - Our daughter is really out there waiting for us. Hopefully, she's waiting more patiently than we are!!

To my knitting friends that were hoping I'd eventually post again about actually knitting a project or two, never fear - I'm going to start another blog just for adoption, which will link from this one - read on if you'd care to follow our adoption, or not if you don't. Knitting content will soon grace these posts once again.

2006-02-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

60 to 80

Just numbers on the way to 100%. 60 is a just a little more than halfway. 80 seems almost all the way there. And before you hang your hat on whether 60 is half empty and 80 is half full - these are more than just digits to my husband and I. These are percentages corresponding with our chances of giving birth to a live baby - 60-80% (if I don't stroke first). Not a full term baby - a live one. Our perinatologist's version of "success" is a breathing baby, no matter the possible long term health/financial/emotional implications of birth to a 24 weeker. Of course, the peri said with a smile on his face, assuming survival - your child is "likely" to need medical intervention, but it probably will all work out "OK". After doing some soul searching, we've decided that "OK" is what something is when you just don't know how to make it better.

Our doctor may not know, but we do. Over the next couple of months, our paperwork to adopt will be on its way to China. After four years of crushed hopes, invasive treatment, multiple miscarriages and a loss of faith, adoption brings us a very welcome well of hope. It's likely our daughter will be a little over a year old when we finally meet her. And, having spent her young life in an orphanage, she'll probably just be "OK" when we hold her for the first time. But, as our eyes meet and we become a family, I know that together we'll find a way - to turn "OK" into "Great".

2006-02-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

Fairy Dust

My Knitting Fairy from Knitty's SP6 can't possibly have known that I have a little thing for faeries when she chose her identity. I swoon over a beautifully drawn faery, and the one she included on her card is no exception. Better yet, attached to the card were these gorgeous handmade stitch markers in my some of my favorite colors!

But, the goodies don't stop there. Also in the box were not one, but two, skeins of Classic Elite Miracle yarn in Natural for dyeing. What luxury to have my first attempt at handpainting fiber be with this alpaca/tencel blend - it's so soft! My pal also sent a photo album for storing circulars (neat idea!), and chocolate. But not just any chocolate - she sent Hershey's kisses. Lots of Hershey's kisses. Almost 3 pounds worth. I plan on munching my way through them while watching the Olympics and knitting away on Chickami. We all know where those 3 pounds of chocolate will ultimately wind up.

Last, but not least (he'd whine if we forgot him for real), was a toy for Tocchet. The toy crinkles, and Toc went a little crazy as I was taking it off its wrapper. Toc likes plastic and aluminum foil (but surprisingly not paper), mostly because they crinkle. This from the cat who went running when we first adopted him at the slightest sound - he's come a long way. The second I tossed it to him, he went after it with abandon. Knitting Fairy, you clearly made Toc's day.

And while I'm at it, you made mine, too! Thank you so much for sprinking your generous, thoughtful fairy dust on my doorstep today!!!

2006-02-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

Ewe Gotta See This!

My SP7 pal sent me a package!! And in it was this terrific card...look closely now...those are sheep. And not just any sheep. Those are cauliflower sheep, with zucchini legs. How cool is that?

Almost as cool as the stuff my pal sent! Inside the package was a treasure trove of goodies, each gift beautifully wrapped in colorful tissue and adorned with a fun little note! Ripping off the wrapping revealed candles, post-its, an argyle note pad, a container for notions, incredibly neat 3-D stickers, a photo album, bath oil in the shape of an octupus, and a fun, fuzzy pen. Thanks so much Secret Pal!!!

2006-01-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

Breakfast of Champions

Whenever our cat breaks out in typical feline craziness, we tease that he must have had Wheaties for breakfast. After all, it surely takes copious amounts of fuel to chase things we cannot see for reasons we don't understand. Just ask Delegate Bob.

After Bob's ill-reasoned HB 187 was defeated last week without debate in committee, you'd think he would have tucked his tail between his legs and crawled under a rock. But no, ever the optimistic bobblehead, he decided he'd approach the legislation of reproductive morality in a different way.

Introducing HB 412 - which seeks to prohibit the use of anonymous egg or sperm donations with regard to fertility treatment. Nevermind that gamete donation offers parenting options to millions of people, ranging from single women to gay couples to Delegate Bob's own kind - straight married Catholics. Bob is determined to legislate away the reproductive choices of what he calls "desperate" women. What makes me desperate, Bob, is the very idea that you are in a position to judge anyone's pathway to parenthood.

2006-01-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

Progress (or Lack Thereof)

I started my first sweater this past weekend. Well, I should clarify that...while in the car on the way down to Prescott listening to Death Cab for Cutie I swatched for my first sweater. Of course, I forgot to bring my gauge tool or a ruler with me, so it had to wait until we returned home for me to see if it measured on target. Good thing, because I might have thrown it out the car window if I'd measured it on the way home.

Not. Even. Close. So, I decided it would be a good idea to rip out the swatch and retry (What was I thinking? Ah, yes - that it would be "smart" to save extremely kinked up yarn to re-swatch with...), using larger needles. What didn't occur to me until after my fit of frustrated frogging, is that I probably had it right the first swatch, if I'd only washed and blocked it. On the second swatching attempt using the next needle size up, not only was the gauge still not right, the texture of the fabric wasn't right either.

So, it's back to the swatching board for me. How come swatches don't come with an undo/redo button??

2006-01-17T21:42:00.000-08:00

Paint the (Scarf) Red

Today, I finished my second WIP of 2006 - a red scarf that's been languishing in my must-finish-someday pile. Sarah, my terrific pal from SP6, suggested the perfect home for it - the Orphan Foundation of America's Red Scarf Project. Red scarves knitted for the project will be included in care packages for college bound foster children, in an effort to to ensure that young people aging out of the foster care system are encouraged to succeed as adults. The project hopes that for young people without stable families, the scarves will send a powerful message of community, caring, and hope. I'm sure you've got red yarn in your stash. What better excuse do you need to spend a couple of hours turning it into something especially worthwhile?

2006-01-15T22:43:00.000-08:00

7 Hours

Today, my husband walked his first marathon. 7 hours was the cut off time to complete the race and have your time count. I stood at the last turn waiting for him, growing more anxious as each minute ticked by. Group after group passed me, some folks jogging by with little effort as if they had just started to warm up. One elderly gentleman power-walked around the curve, gripping a walker for support. One woman wept as her cramped legs made normal strides difficult. They came in groups, clusters, and one by one - willing themselves and each other to take just one more step, all searching deep inside to find that last bit of energy to carry them across the finish line.

As the clock counted down, my husband rounded the turn. 26.2 miles had taken their toll, but he was still walking with purpose - he was determined to make that 7 hour cut off time. A huge smile broke across his face as he stepped across the line with just minutes to spare. He made it, although not by much, and his time was nothing to brag about. But to me, the fact that he stuck with it, followed through, and finished it at all, IS something to brag about. He is a very tired man. And tonight, I am a very, very proud wife!!

2006-01-15T10:53:00.000-08:00

It's Official

In my eyes, the new year doesn't officially start until I've finished at least one knitted project (please ignore the fact that we're already halfway through January). Since I've freshly resolved to finish one old project for every new one I start, I've been feeling the pressure to get knitting.

Hostessing SP7 has been taking up a lot of my knitting time, so last night I sat down to knit, determined not to get up until a project was finished. It's amazing what a solid couple hours of knitting can accomplish!! Here's a look at my Winter Femme hat, stretched over my ever-trusty blocking method of wadded towels atop a wine bottle. Despite having to navigate a couple of errors in the pattern, it was an enjoyable pattern to knit - all in all a great start to the new year!

2006-01-09T21:17:00.000-08:00

Secret Pal 7 Questionnaire

Warning - strictly knitting content below...if you don't knit, now's your chance to move along (it's a long post!)

Are you a yarn snob? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand?

I approach yarn like dating - if it’s not nice enough to take out on a second date, why go out with it in the first place? Life is just too short to knit with yarn you don’t want to take to bed with you.
Do you spin? Crochet?

I don’t spin – yet. It’s on my list of things I’d like to learn how to do. I can crochet, but have gotten out of the habit of it, and I’m a bit rusty. I am very interested in trying freeform crochet/knitting, and am currently collecting little bits of handspun yarns, or leftovers from novelties, or really any remnants of yarn to use in my first freeform project.
What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

Umm….do WIPs count as needle storage? Right now I have most of my needles stored in a big ziplock bag. I have a straight needle case, but I haven’t gotten into the habit of using it. I like the see-through-ness of the bag – if I can’t see it, I forget I have it. I’m currently on the hunt for a simple, easy storage solution that allows me to easily catalog my needles and other notions.
How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

Advanced beginner to intermediate – I know how to knit scarves, socks, and hats. I can felt a bag, knit cables and have tried my hand at lace. I won’t consider myself a “real” knitter, though, until I tackle my first sweater. As soon as I finish one of my numerous WIPs, I am casting on! Truthfully, I think I could knit 20 years and still consider myself a beginning knitter - to truly know the craft takes a lifetime.
Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Here's a link to my Amazon wish list.
What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)

I like lavender, citrus, and things that smell like rain. Love Banana Republic's "Classic" fragrance - it's uncomplicated and clean-smelling.
Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I’m a candy junkie (faves are Sweettarts, Nerds, Smarties, Skittles, Starbursts). I love chocolate, too (although shipping chocolate to the Arizona desert intact might be a challenge). Please don’t send chocolate or coffee with flavored with nuts, though - My husband is very allergic to hazel nuts, brazil nuts and pine nuts (to such a degree that they can’t even enter the house.)
What other crafts or DIY things do you like to do?

I enjoy pretty much anything crafty (fiber arts, paper arts, etc.). I also work with various metals (silver, copper) forming jewelry/vessels, as well as with glass (stained glass, lampworking).
What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s?

I am a music nut and have a bazillion CDs. I like alternative music, some pop, some new age instrumental, some opera. Pretty much anything but hip hop, rap, or country. My computer can play MP3s (I also have an I-pod).
What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?

I’m an Autumn child - I love most earth tones and deep jewel tones – particularly brick reds, golds, deep greens, teals and purples. My least favorite shades include bright primary colors and pastels (baby blue, pale pink, mint green, etc.).
What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I'm married to my high school sweetheart; currently no children. I have a polydactyl Maine Coon kitty who's constantly proving that no matter how old he gets, he'll always be a two year old in terms of behavior.
Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

I live in the desert, so sadly, I don’t have much of a need for warm clothing. Inexplicably, that doesn’t stop me from knitting it. Now if it would just get cold enough to show it off….
What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?

I prefer knitting with soft, natural fibers (merino, alpaca or silk). I am also crazy about handspun yarns that are textural – the nubbier, slubbier the better. Since most handspun doesn’t carry much yardage, I collect it more than anything - I am usually at a loss as to what to make with it. I am always on the lookout for new handspun/painted/dyed yarns from smaller distributors/farms.
What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I am not a big fan of novelty yarns. I have seen some attractive finished objects made with novelties, but except for freeform knitting/crochet, I prefer not to knit with them myself (yarn should not make a squeaking sound when you touch it). I’m also not fond of most cotton yarns, as the cotton tends to make my hands ache while knitting. While I love self-striping yarns (Noro!), I'm not as keen on self-patterning sock yarns (I never can seem to get the pattern to line up correctly, which inflames my mostly latent OCD-ness). I have difficulty wearing 100% wool next to my skin, although I can (and do!) knit with it without any problems, especially for socks and felting projects.
What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?

I’m determined to knit my first sweater, and to have it fit (even if I have to frog it a few times until I get it right)!!!
What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

Lately, I’ve been on a lace kick - I have finished a couple of scarves and am starting my first lace shawl soon. I also enjoy knitting bags for felting, and socks.
What are you knitting right now?

One of my New Year’s resolutions is to finish one WIP for each new project started. We’ll see how long that lasts…I’m already tempted to break it! See my blog for my latest list of WIPs….
Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

Love it!! There is nothing better than receiving a gift that someone put their heart and time into, imperfections and all.
Do you prefer straight or circular needles?

It depends on the project – I am comfortable using either.
Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

I'm not a big fan of metal needles unless the project involves a sticky yarn (they're too slippery for me). I prefer rosewood, ebony or bamboo. I just tried Bryspun plastic straights and love the flexible feel of them. I got Bryspun circulars for Christmas, but haven’t used them yet.
Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

I own a yarn winder, but not a swift.
How did you learn to knit?

I took a class at my LYS.
How old is your oldest UFO?

Two years. A Fun Fur scarf started before I decided that I hated synthetic yarns. I probably won’t ever finish it.
What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird?

Jack Skellington from The Nightmare before Christmas.
What is your favorite holiday?

Thanksgiving.
Is there anything that you collect?

Stationery/office supplies (post its, printed folders, colored pens, notecards, etc.)
Teas
Hand-blown Glass (Radko style) Christmas ornaments
Things that sparkle, dangle, or look especially cool in miniature
Postcards
What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Interweave Knits.
Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?

Books: My knitting library is pretty bare - My SP6 pal gave me my first knitting book (Last Minute Knitted Gifts). So, the field of books I don’t have is wide open.

Yarns: I have been lusting over Alchemy Haiku ever since I saw sunlight glinting off of it in a little shop in Seattle. I would also like to try yarns from Mystical Creations and Brooks Farm, as well as Koigu, Morehouse Merino and Artyarns Ultramerino.

Patterns:
Silvia Harding - Diamond Fantasy Shawl
Silvia Harding - Shetland Garden Faroese Shawl
Fiddlesticks - Lotus Blossom Shawl
ChicKnits - Ribby Cardi
La Lana Patterns - The Wings of the Swan Ruana (as seen in INKnitters Fall ‘04)

Needles: I’d love to try Lantern Moon ebony needles, but I’m too cheap to buy them for myself. Bryspun or Balene II flexible straights in any size other than 4.
Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

Does how to knit faster so I could finish a WIP some time this year count? If not - I would love to learn the Magic Loop technique for knitting socks. Oh, and how to size the aforementioned sweater. I would also like to try my hand at dyeing some yarn myself.
Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

I do enjoy knitting (and wearing!) socks. I don’t know my exact foot measurements, but I wear a size 6 shoe (foot is approximately 9” long), and I like the cuff to be about 6” high.
When is your birthday?
August 16.

2006-01-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

Sic Semper Tyrannis

The title phrase flies proudly on the state flag of Virginia, heralding the victory of the worthy over tyrants. This week, VA state legislator Robert G. Marshall declared himself as worthy, and the feared tyrants: unmarried women wishing to become parents through medical intervention. HB 187 seeks to prohibit the provision of any infertility treatment that "completely or partially replaces sexual intercourse as the means of conception" to unmarried women. The bill prohibits artificial insemination, IVF, even cryopreservation of gametes (so if you're diagnosed with cancer prior to marriage and are weighing the question of whether to freeze your eggs before you face chemotherapy, Delegate Bob has the answer for you.)

This latest attempt at regulating bedroom behavior (or lack thereof) caps off an impressive history of insensitivity by Delegate Bob. He sponsored a withdrawn bill last year would have required mothers to report any miscarriage/fetal death to the police within 12 hours of the delivery or face a possible misdemeanor sentence, and is currently backing a bill declaring civil unions or domestic partnerships "imitations" of marriage.

Should unmarried women seeking artificial insemination or IVF be considered "imitation" mothers, as well? Delegate Bob thinks so. Do you? Please contact your delegate today to have your voice heard.

2006-01-03T14:06:00.000-08:00

And a happy New Year it will be!!!

That is, once I complete all of my outstanding WIPs. I'm at that 'spinning around just staring at all of the unfinished projects' part of the knitting process. My New Year's resolution (at least one of them) is to move past the indecision phase to the actually knitting something phase. Funny, much more gets completed that way.

My current WIPs:

Opera scarf from Blue Sky Alpacas (yes, I'm still working on it!)
Felted Sophie bag (with my first attempt at felted Fair Isle trim, which I just know is going to turn into mush when I wash it)
Cabled hat (which is waiting on the size 5 DPNs I still haven't bought - which merits a trip to the LYS during this weekend's sale!)
Little Shells socks (sock #1 finished, #2 is halfway down the leg - I lost the 5th DPN and hate knitting with only 4 - this is good news - see above)
Basic socks (in Sockotta yarn, which I didn't know I didn't like until I was a good portion of the way done with sock #1. Seems a shame now to rip out a perfectly good pair of socks. Anyone interested in partially finished socks, size 6?)
Sunray lace scarf (I got a little burned out on lace knitting, so it's resting for the moment)

Which brings me current. My goal is to finish at least one of these projects before starting on the next big thing. Which is going to be.........my first sweater. I've narrowed down the pattern to Chickami or Soleil. Both look like doable patterns for a newbie sweater knitter. This will be my first attempt at knitting something where gauge actually matters. Which means this time next month I may still be trying to figure out which needle/yarn combination to use. Nonetheless, wish me luck!!

2005-12-19T00:57:00.000-08:00

Remembrance and Contemplation

Sometimes introspection hits us in the most surprising of ways. I was flipping through some old photos tonight, when there they were...my father's eyes staring back at me. I haven't seen a picture of my father since the day of his funeral. The picture was taken at my nephew's baptism - a seemingly happy occasion. But even then, I knew - there were so many things I wanted to tell him, to show him, to give him, but I knew then that we were on borrowed time.

My father was a concert pianist. From a very young age I sat beside him, entranced as his fingers magically danced across the keys swirling music all around us. Sadly, as he grew sicker, he played less and less, frustrated and embarrassed that his fingers had lost their dexterity, until a few notes during the holidays was all the music I could hope for. Last Christmas, after I'd said goodnight and climbed beneath the covers, I heard the last carols I'd ever hear him play. As I lay in the quiet, a few notes crept through the silence, and then a chord, then a few hesitant bars of "O' Holy Night" began. Ever a proud man, he'd waited to play until I wasn't watching his trembling fingers struggle to find the right keys. I crept out of bed and stood in the darkness and let his music fill my soul.

Of my father's possessions, there was only one thing I wanted after he passed away - his sheet music. From his notes in the margins to dog-eared corners turned down to mark his favorite songs, a treasured piece of him is forever embedded in those well-worn pages. This holiday season I am hopeful that someday soon we'll have a child to share our lives with. And tonight, as I gazed upon his picture, I knew - although they will never meet the way I would have liked, our child and my father will find a way to know each other through his music - as those pages turn, the beloved notes of Christmas carols past will weave indelible melodies into future dreams.

So, to all those who have lost something in their lives, whether it be a spouse, a parent, a lover, a dream - turn your face towards the stars, and let promise fall upon you this Christmas eve - after all, Santa's kind of known for dropping hope out of the sky.

2005-12-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

TGIF

Somewhere in between the holiday decorations in the mall and the sale advertisements and catalogs in the ever-teetering mail pile I let Christmas sneak up on me. Oh, it's been coming. In fact, it's been coming all year. But suddenly, it's HERE. Since I have to ship almost all of my family's Christmas gifts (and I don't want to pay more in postage than I spent on gifts), I have to shop early to get gifts into the post on time. Now, I know that some folks shop in January for the following year's holiday. But for me, early qualifies as anything purchased prior to Christmas Eve day at 4:00 p.m.

This predicament is not a new thing for me - I have to ship gifts every year. But somehow this Monday it struck me like lightning - if I don't shop/wrap/mail this week - the gifts might not be on time. And telling my nephew that Auntie was too lazy to come through in a timely manner just won't fly. So amongst all the other things I scheduled this week (because it never occurred to me that oh, yeah, my entire shopping list is needing to get done by TODAY), I frantically pounded it out. Thankfully, although my physical shell of a being had not moved past thinking about buying gifts to actually acquiring them, my brain had at least been considering what to buy. After a few minor crises (out of stock items/colors/do you think they'll like its?) the perfect gift was found for each person on my list, wrapped, and shipped out this afternoon. Tonight - I'll raise a glass of wine at Cyclo in celebration of completing all of my holiday shopping on time. Now if that Christmas tree would just decorate itself.....

2005-12-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Perfect Model

I forgot to take a picture of my last finished object before it got mailed off to its beloved recipient. What a joy it was today to receive a picture of my nephew modeling his Marsan watch cap! This was such a fun pattern to knit - and the color matches his eyes perfectly!

2005-11-30T21:58:00.000-08:00

HOLY COW HOLIDAY SECRET PAL!!

Yesterday's knock on the door brought a terrific package from my Knitty pal! Still no pics taken, but I promised her I'd be bragging about her today, so here goes.... She sent DPNs, a scrapbook, tons of knitting notions, coffee (mmmm), and a great knitting bag. And to my surprise, when I opened up the bag - more stuff! A needle case, 2 skeins of gorgeous Zephyr (how did you know Sable is one of the colors I've been eyeing?), and best of all, a boatload of yarn remnants so I can start my first free form knitting project! Oh, and little handwritten notes, clues from her hometown, a postcard, everywhere I looked there was something fun. HSP - you really took the time to read my blog and questionnaires, because everything you chose for me was absolutely perfect. Thanks so much!!!!

P.S. And even though you didn't leave your name, I know who you are....tee hee.

2005-11-21T13:26:00.000-08:00

Secret Pal Strikes Again!

It was on its way to being a normal Monday. Well, almost normal. When I stepped out to get the mail there was a dead bird on the doorstep. Ewwww. But, also on the doorstep was a package from my SP6!!! In it were four gorgeous skeins of Knitpicks Shadow yarn in Redwood Forest. It's a beautiful chocolate brown color flecked with reds and greens. I've been wanting to try this yarn - what a perfect color choice! And, as if that wasn't enough, also included was the Fibertrends Leaf Lace shawl pattern to go with it! Rounding out the autumn theme were little scented soaps in fall colors. A huge thanks for my pal for making a regular ole Monday extraordinary. This has been a wonderful SP6 experience!!

2005-11-21T08:35:00.000-08:00

Party of One

There are some things in life that I think people just can't understand unless they've lived them. You can't know what it's like to be different race, a member of the opposite sex, or an infertile woman, unless you are. You may be able to relate to being, or think you're sure of what it must entail, but you simply can't know what it's like.

Case in point: Chuck E. Cheese Pizza - an overwhelming venue on the best of days. Nonetheless, it was the bistro de jour for a lunch recently with several of my girlfriends. All of them have children, so it was a logical choice. They all know I'm infertile, and to mitigate the choice of a kid-centric spot for lunch they decided not to let me pay for my meal. Instead, my $20 was turned down with the following statement:

You aren't worth anything. It's just you.

Now, normally the thought of a free lunch is quite appealing. Free pizza? Even better. As an infertile woman, however, this innocuous statement glanced off my cheek just as squarely as if my friend had stuck out her fist. I know what she meant. But what she said got me to thinking - is our value as adults reduced to a measure of the little people we've produced? And if so, if I never become a parent, biological or otherwise, do I cease to exist? What if I only fulfill alternate roles in life outside of parenthood? Does being a wife, a writer, a daughter, an artist hold equal weight to changing diapers, attending soccer games and kissing away scabbed knees?

Before you answer what you think is right - consider this. You won't ever know. You can't, unless you've lived the other scenario. As that scale tips precariously ask yourself - If it were possible to carefully measure each side, would you be defined by the people you love or by those who love you? Either way it's just you in the center. Surrounded by all the worth in the world.

2005-11-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

A Little Bit of Sunshine

Well, after much swatching of laceweight yarn from handpaintedyarn.com, I finally settled on a lace scarf based on Barbara Walker's Sunray pattern. Here's a pic of the first few repeats, roughly pinned into shape. There's still lots of repeats to go, but it's a pretty quick and easy lace pattern, which thankfully translates into very little tinking. I'm also breaking in my new Bryspun straight needles. I never though I would enjoy knitting with plastic needles, but these are the most comfortable needles I've ever used. They are flexible to reduce hand strain, warm to the touch, and have wonderfully tapered ends for digging into those stubborn stitches. My LYS doesn't carry Bryspun circs, so those are on my list to order. And since I feel weird placing an order for just needles, I'll have to decide on some new yarn, too. Darn.

2005-11-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

Is It Freezing in Here?

H-e-double hockey sticks is growing cold. On Saturday, the Phoenix Coyotes beat the Detroit Red Wings with a score of 4-1. For Coyotes fans, beating the Red Wings is a big deal. There are so many transplanted Red Wings fans in the Phoenix area, when Detroit comes to town their crimson jersey-wearing fan base tips the scales. Osgood is either the object of sainthood, or mockery, depending on which side you're on. So, swaggering with confidence, Detroit rolled into Phoenix with an impressive 12-1 record, with 9 of those wins earned consecutively. And 60 minutes later, the Yotes handed the Wings their second loss of the season, bringing them to 12-2. What a sweet victory it is!

2005-11-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Imposter

Why is it that the yarn you pick on a whim always works, while the yarn you lust over for weeks and finally purchase specifically for a long awaited project doesn't sing when you cast on? I started the Baltic Sea Stole using laceweight yarn from handpaintedyarn.com that I ordered with this pattern in mind. The more stitches I knit, the more the yarn convinced me that I had chosen the wrong one. The yarn dropped subtle hints by mildly felting in my hands as I knit and pilling each time I tinked back to a missed stitch. Both of which are forgivable for something dainty, but not for a stole I hoped to throw over my shoulders to keep me warm at the hockey rink. Desperate to save itself, the yarn painted visions in my head of cold moist air and rough metal chairs attacking its longevity long before the 82 game season is over. After much arguing about how the color was still perfect, it convinced me. I just can't commit to putting in all that work for a stole that might fall apart in a few months. So, I've got to choose another yarn for my Baltic Sea stole, and the imposter yarn will become a lace scarf of my own design. Guess those 48,951 stole stitches have a little bit longer to wait while I pick the perfect superwash fingering weight companion.

2005-11-01T20:34:00.000-08:00

48,951

This is the approximate number of stitches I've calculated must be knit to complete the Baltic Sea Stole per the pattern. I can't decide if I'm glad I computed this number (is it now a goal within reach or a mockingbird calling from a high tree limb?) The good news is that I'm knitting this stole for myself, so I can take as long as I want to finish it. So ask me in 2007 if I'm done yet.

Also on the needles is a Marsan Watchcap for my nephew. Thankfully, I'm 2/3 of the way done already and knitting ribbing is just the type of mindless project that can get done while I'm watching TV. Now that baseball is over, House is back on Tuesday nights. And knitting while watching Hugh Laurie makes for a fine evening, indeed.

2005-10-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Freeform Knitting Swap

I was wandering around Barnes and Noble the other day and picked up a book on freeform knitting. After reading just a couple of pages, I was hooked. I am now collecting little bits and pieces of yarn to try my first freeform project. I'm especially looking for bits of handspun, or hand-dyed, or anything with texture. Since I have a limited about of leftovers in my own stash, I was thinking about organizing a free form knitting swap. We could all look in our stashes to see what we could spare a few yards of, and exchange away. So, here's a plea to my fellow knitters - if you have a yard or two of leftover yarn that you don't know what to do with, please let me know!

In other news, I ordered some laceweight yarn from handpaintedyarn.com, and it's finally here! I ordered Pagoda, which turned out to be a wonderful deep wine color, and Verdeazule, which while darker than the picture on their website, is still a beautiful blend of dark blues and greens. It reminds me of the colors of black watch plaid. This is my first time using this yarn, so I am anxious to see how it knits up!

2005-10-12T13:46:00.000-07:00

Branching Out Completed!

Finding a good place to block a finished object is always a challenge. Of course, in an effort to make sure my Branching Out scarf was long enough, I did a couple of extra repeats. Well, maybe more than a couple - consciously ignoring the fact that the darn thing would block out to be significantly longer. (Note to self - 35 repeats / 8 blocked feet is LONG ENOUGH) The only place with enough space I could shut off from my ever present feline friend is my guest bedroom. My cat has a fit any time he can't see where I am, so when I shut the door to block my scarf, he went into little angry hysterics, convinced that a mere moment alone would just kill him.

So, there I am trying to block my first real lace project while listening to an especially emotional kitty symphony. As fast as I could while in OCD mode, I pinned and re-pinned in an ultimately unsuccesful attempt at making the center line exactly straight - all the while trying to avoid the paws that kept poking under the door desperate to get in. Nonetheless, it's done, it's drying, and I'm moving on. And Toc will be glad to hear that the next project on the needles is socks - no blocking required.

2005-10-05T23:47:00.000-07:00

It's Been A Long Time...

It took a whole lot of waiting, and even more bitching, but it finally happened. Players took the ice today in the first game of the 2005 National Hockey League season. Go Coyotes!!!!! 'Nuff said.

2005-10-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

Channeling Toc

What a delight it was to come home yesterday to a package in my mailbox from my Secret Pal!! I don't think there is any way my Pal could have known that the adorable kitten seen on the front of the card she sent (above) would grow up to look like this! That's Tocchet (at right) pictured with a toy also sent by my Secret Pal. Like most Maine Coon cats, Toc is a biter, and absolutely everything goes into his mouth (yarn, pens, fingers, etc.). This picture was taken just moments before the toy was thoroughly tested out via a proper chewing session. Clearly, we were both equally excited about the goodies we received!

Along with kitty treats, other fun stuff in the box included sock yarn (two projects worth!) and a pretty bag to put it in, gorgeous beaded stitch markers, and yummy sour candies. Many thanks to my Secret Pal for putting together such a special, thoughtful gift!!

2005-09-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

Everybody's Doing It

I was feeling left out. As I visited blog after blog, I kept seeing it. There were chat rooms, discussion groups, and knitalongs all abuzz with questions about it: Which yarn should I choose? How many repeats should I knit? Which needle size makes the nicest fabric? Like a lemming, I had to cast on and knit it for myself. Here it is, almost done, just a few repeats and blocking to go. And isn't the prettiest Branching Out you've ever seen?

2005-09-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Kiss Your Cat

Yesterday was a sad day for me. A close friend of mine lost their father. Since my own father passed away very recently, this death sparked fresh feelings of loss enveloping me in waves. There were a lot of similarities between his father and mine - both were stubbornly proud men, battling terminal illnesses with a determined sense that they were capable of cheating the odds. Yet as days passed and turned into years, the endless struggles with the day to day reality of their situations changed each of them, a little at a time. Death furrowed it's lines, laying claim in grooves and trenches, etching its presence across their faces and their souls, where no wrinkles had been. I was not there the night my father died, so I did not see this with my own two eyes. But those that did observed a blessing that will stay with me forever...Those deep valleys marching across my father had gone, smoothed and filled with peace, at last.

I knit through the death of my father. 3:00 a.m. frequently found me tearful, hunched over double pointed needles wishing I could embrace him one last time. But for some strange reason I couldn't knit yesterday - Tom's death is affecting me in ways I don't fully understand. I know I feel older, introspective, and more conflicted by truth today. Is having lived a good life, enough? I don't know. What I am sure of, is that all life plays out moment by moment, and that you can't take for granted that you'll get another one. So, today, right now, make this very tiny moment huge - STOP, and hug and kiss your spouse, your partner, your family, and your friends...and don't forget your cat.

2005-09-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

Are the Chairs Comfy?

My husband is a trooper. We just got back from a vacation trip to the Pacific Northwest and he cheerfully agreed to visit almost all of the yarn stores on my list. And the ones we didn't hit were because we ran out of time, not because he ran out of tolerance. He trailed after me as we browsed through three stores in Seattle, calmly waited reading knitting books in a great shop in Kent, tiptoed with me through a very odd store in Tacoma, sipped his coffee through a terrific store in Portland, and encouraged me to go back and buy that expensive scarf kit in a Victorian house in Eugene. He watched patiently as I endlessly compared yarns and answered sincerely when I asked for his opinions on colors for the millionth time. One of the measures of being a truly lucky woman - a husband who's reponse when told of another yarn store is to merely smile, haul out the map to navigate our way there, and ask...."Are the chairs comfy?"

2005-09-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

Whoo Hoo!! It's Secret Pal 6 Time!!!!

1. Are you a yarn snob? I must confess, I am. There. It's out. I am sensitive to some wools, so usually try to stick with 100% merino or a wool/silk blend. I love alpaca, as well.

2. Do you spin? Crochet? I don't spin - yet. I can crochet, but I definitely prefer to knit.

3. Do you have any allergies? No real allergies, but some wools irritate my skin, so I have to do the "neck test" on them first before I buy!

4. How long have you been knitting? About two years.

5. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? No, but the things that would be on it are: Knitting on the Edge, A Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns (B. Walker), and any books about lace.

6. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) Rain, vanilla, lavender.

7. Do you have a sweet tooth? I love hard candy, especially anything sour. Chocolates, too!

8. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I enjoy pretty much anything crafty. I work with various metals forming jewelry, and also do stained glass as my main hobbies. I love beads and also am a scrapbooking junkie, although I don't complete very many pages. I just like to fondle all those neat papers and embellishments!

9. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? I love music, and listen to a variety of things. I enjoy mostly alternative, pop and new wave instrumental. Pretty much anything except hip hop/rap or country. Yes, I can play MP3s.

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand? I am always drawn to the earthy colors of nature - reds, golds, browns, olives and eggplant. I shy away from most primary and pastel shades.

11. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets? I'm married to my high school sweetheart; currently no children. I have a Maine Coon kitty who's constantly proving that no matter how old he gets, he'll always be a two year old in terms of behavior.

12. What are your life dreams? (really stretching it here, I know) If money were no object, I'd plunk myself down into an artist's community so I could be surrounded by creativity every day. I'd also love to travel more - there are so many places I want to see!

13. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? Koigu, Lorna's Laces, alpaca, silk, wool....almost anything! I am always on the lookout for new yarns from smaller distributors/farms.

14. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I prefer natural fibers, so I stay away from acrylics and most novelty yarns. Although I like the finished product, knitting with cotton tires my hands, so unless a project strongly calls for cotton, I usually substitute another fiber. I'm also not a big fan of self patterning sock yarns (I never can get those patterns to quite line up!), although I do like some self striping yarns.

15. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s? Lace - scarves, shawls, etc.

16. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Socks - small and satisfying.

17. What are you knitting right now? I have a lot of projects on the needles right now.... Branching Out, Opera Scarf and a felted Fair Isle bag are the three that immediately come to mind.

18. What do you think about ponchos? I've never knit one or worn one, but I am open to the idea.

19. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? For me, it depends on the project. I am comfortable with either.

20. Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I'm not a big fan of metal needles unless it's sticky yarn (they're too slippery for me). I love rosewood, ebony or bamboo. I've never tried plastic needles.

21. Are you a sock knitter? Yes! Oh, I forgot to mention above, I've got Little Shell socks on the needles, too.

22. How did you learn to knit? I took a class at my LYS.

23. How old is your oldest UFO? Two years. A Fun Fur scarf started before I decided that I hated synthetic yarns.

24. What is your favorite animated character or a favorite animal/bird? I'm a sucker for anything cat-related.

25. What is your favorite holiday? Thanksgiving.

26. Is there anything that you collect? Blown glass (Radko style) Christmas ornaments.

27. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? None right now - I can't seem to choose!

28. Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on? See Amazon list.

29. Any patterns you have been coveting, but haven't bought for one reason or another?? There are too many Fiddlesticks and Fibertrends lace shawl patterns I want to list - since I'm new to lace knitting - I want them all! ETA: I just saw Silvia Harding's Diamond Fantasy Shawl pattern - so pretty!

30. What are your foot measurements, and what kind of socks do you like? I wear a size 6 shoe, and prefer socks with at least a 6" cuff (rather than the short anklet variety).

2005-09-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

How Come It's Not Getting Any Longer?

Every knitter has that project...you know the one...it seems like you knit and knit and knit and there just doesn't seem to be any significant progress. On my needles right now is the Opera Scarf from Blue Sky Alpacas. The alpaca & silk yarn is so soft and has the most beautiful sheen to it. And, the gals at Summer of Lace inspired me to try adding beads to my knitting, so I've jazzed it up with some delica beads.

I like how it's turning out, but between counting rows and counting stitches to make sure my seemingly random pattern of beads stays exactly that random, this scarf is taking a very long time to complete. The pictures don't show the beads well - the finished product is wonderfully glimmery (is that a word?). It's a gift, so I hope ***** will love it!

2005-09-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

It IS divine…

spir·i·tu·al
adj.

of soul: relating to the soul or spirit
temperamentally or intellectually akin: connected by an
affinity of the mind, spirit or temperament

My first attempt at working with yarn was a disaster. I decided I wanted to learn how to crochet, so in my usual fashion, I signed up for a class. Sadly, I came home from that first class frustrated, dejected, and with hands so badly cramped they hurt for days. The yarn I’d so painstakingly chosen went into the back of my closet where it sat, forgotten for almost two years. I don’t really know what made me decide to give it another try. I think stubbornness, most of all. So, with newfound determination, I sat down and taught myself to crochet from lessons on the internet. Alas, even as my skill (and confidence) grew, my interest in crocheting waned. A fuzzy novelty scarf in a LYS came to my rescue – yes, Fun Fur inspired me to learn to knit. And much to my surprise, my first knitted swatch was lopsided, uneven…..and absolutely beautiful.

I’ve been knitting now for almost two years. I’ve graduated from novelty yarn scarves to intricate lace patterns crafted from luxury fibers. For me, knitting has grown from a mere hobby to a spiritual addiction. Some people remember where they were when significant events happened in their lives. I remember what I was knitting. As I knit, my emotions travel through my fingertips, across the needles and burrow themselves into the plies of my yarn. Each stitch hides a secret, holding fast its tale of how it was knit while I joyously waited for my nephew to be born, or while I couldn’t sleep charged with anxiety over a life changing decision, or while I wrapped myself tightly in memories after my father passed away. Each project tells a story of who I was at that moment and what was important to me, as my soul tangled with the stitches. Is knitting spiritual? For me, absolutely. In fact, it’s divine.