tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-215250562011-04-21T20:40:31.889-04:00"There are some things in life that catch your eye, and then there are those that capture your heart. Pursue those." ~Author Unknownknoreply@blogger.comBlogger2571100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-19389583678617635202008-10-17T21:05:00.000-04:002007-10-17T12:27:51.531-04:00

Blogger's been acting up on me lately so I'm moving...http://needleplay.wordpress.com/Thanks!

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-41056542987659948712007-10-17T12:25:00.000-04:002007-10-17T12:27:06.759-04:00

Please contact me via email! The address you have will not be good after this weekend. I've tried emailing you, etc and would just like to touch base, pass on my temporary address for the next month or so. I hope you have not forgotten me.Thanks!

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-22931968145655568932007-08-31T22:32:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:50.892-05:00

This will be double posted since this was my blog for Sockapalooza-My socks arrived... all the way from Germany!Julia knit Baudelaires from Regia Silk (oh-mi-gosh-is-this-yarn-amazingly-soft!!) They look fantastic and fit really well. I wish I could do more complicated patterns for socks. I may have to challenge myself more on the next pair. I have not taken them off since I put them on.Today was

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18337739775492102172007-08-22T08:34:00.000-04:002007-08-22T09:02:48.181-04:00

I took a night off from job hunting to dye up some yarn. So much fun- it's been a long time since I last did it. When I peeled off my gloves I was horrified to see that both hands were stained with all the colors I used. G called me zombie hands- the fading browns/yellows look like old bruises and the greens/blues are just scary (and the teal stained nails aren't helping!)I only have two big

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-79065757486047898092007-08-21T09:39:00.000-04:002007-08-21T09:55:30.163-04:00

I've been kicking around the idea of a fingering weight Clapotis and it seems like the ones I am considering will make perfect gifts. My options are a supersolid sock yarn from Cherry Tree Hill (in a vibrant purple- I have someone in mind for that one) or a fingering weight solid red alpaca (someone else in mind). The Yahoo group for Clapotis will be closing at the end of the year, so I'd like to

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-25184339991384402182007-08-19T09:11:00.001-04:002007-08-19T11:27:08.409-04:00

In order to stay focused on the projects I'm doing, I put each pattern and WIP in a specific bag so I can either grab it when we head out for a long drive, take to work for lunch, have one next to the TV so I don't have to stop and search for my knitting before we watch a show/movie, etc.So... I'm working on tiny baby socks for Afghans and today I'll be starting my Sock It to Me socks out of

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-46417985452469562602007-08-16T22:05:00.000-04:002007-08-16T22:51:58.172-04:00

Posed by my Hostess, Shelby :)1. What is the one knitting accessory you could not live without?I tend to lose all my accessories. The one I could not live without is a tapestry needle for my kitchener-ing (which I have to hunt for every single time I get to that point in my sock), followed closely by crochet hook and needle gauge. I've been meaning to buy a new needle gauge for the longest time.

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-8460932841496190892007-08-16T20:08:00.000-04:002007-08-16T20:16:57.252-04:00

I have not heard from my sock knitter. Just let me know you are out there, somewhere. I'm stalking my postman and he would like it to stop. I'm not sure he is understanding my babble about sock exchanges. :)Finally, I can breathe: My socks have arrived to their destination! Woohooo!Here's the packaged version:And the other pic with specs

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-15109182130947693052007-08-15T21:03:00.000-04:002007-08-15T21:12:39.895-04:00

A yarn I've wanted but thought they discontinued has just shown back up...elann.com Den-M-nit Pure Indigo Cotton!!I love the medium Indigo. Love Love Love. Well, that and the deeper Indigo....I've wanted to try this out ever since I saw this gorgeous sweater.

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18014938471064565672007-08-14T20:03:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:51.269-05:00

My Sockapalooza Pal's only one state away but I have not heard if she received her socks I sent last week. No socks in my mailbox yet, either. I keep checking, just in case.However, I have received my match for Secret Pal 11 and am excited to get started with that.In other news...I've also got some red yarn set aside to make at least one scarf for the Red Scarf ProjectCaron Simply Soft in Autumn

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-27327110399489040272007-08-12T16:01:00.000-04:002007-08-12T16:42:54.753-04:00

This weekend has been all about organizing and looking ahead.I love living simply. I tend to move quite often (every 2-3 years) so I use that time to re-evaluate and remove any extra 'Stuff' that just seems to collect on the shelves. I'm not a knick-knack sort of person... more of a clean, minimal aesthetic but in a comfortable way. And since I am hoping to move out of this area for a new

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-84024117163336184372007-08-08T19:27:00.000-04:002007-08-08T19:41:01.385-04:00

I have pictures of them cutely packaged but that would give away my Sockapalooza's Pal's name, so that will wait until they arrive. I had to mail them out today since they were still drying yesterday on the official mailout day.Specs:Cherry Tree Hill Sport (Dusk colorway)Needles: 2 pair size 3 Knitpicks classic circularsPriscilla's Dream Socks out of Favorite KnitsMods: my normal toes, garter

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1052557698124074912007-08-07T19:21:00.000-04:002007-08-07T19:28:38.652-04:00

Paraphrased from their website: Afghans for Afghans needs blankets, hats, mittens, socks, sweaters, and vests for youth, which will go to children's rehabilitation and health centers in Kabul and Bamiyan. These programs treat children who have been traumatized psychologically and physically by the years of war and poverty. The due date is September 21.More info hereThis will be a good chance to

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-34024841605204834072007-08-05T23:03:00.000-04:002007-08-11T21:46:29.693-04:00

1. a.What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? Currently, it's sock yarn. But overall, my absolute favorite so far has been Watermark, by Fiesta Yarns. It's amazingly soft, and was the type of yarn I had to stop every three rows to pet and sigh over. Other favorites include: Lorna's Laces, Cherry Tree Hill, Classic Elite Lush, Knitpicks Ambrosia, Socks That Rock.I have some Knitpicks Gloss

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-32893886151858316202007-08-01T06:43:00.000-04:002007-08-01T07:12:20.217-04:00

I finally heard back from my prof about my capstone project for grad school. It was such a large portion of my grade that until I knew that project passed, I wasn't 100% sure I passed the last class and actually graduated. So it has been the longest week ever waiting for him to grade it.Then he started to distribute grades... there's only 12 of us in the class so I kept getting emails from other

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-58219220308123982732007-07-27T19:58:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:51.450-05:00

I'm loving the colors of this sock. My pal mentioned liking blue, green and purples... I think this should do the trick! And its so squishysoft.The second one should go much faster now that I've got the hang of short row heels. I didn't do the short row toe, just my usual one.

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18014120232028096802007-07-23T17:47:00.001-04:002007-07-23T17:51:29.902-04:00

Well... I hope I am. I mailed off my capstone project and now have to wait for my final grade.I can't believe I busted my butt in the evenings for my Masters degree in 18 months and it is finally over.Sleep at last! And knitting more than an inch or two at a time! And dyeing!I'm giddy.

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-2450668404495847662007-07-23T06:58:00.000-04:002007-07-23T07:07:03.524-04:00

LaVerna (my sockret pal spoilee) is celebrating her blog anniversary and an upcoming birthday! (Go leave her a little congrats if you have a moment).She asked if anyone could guess where the title for her blog (Ridiculous Obsession) came from, and for once, it's something that I know. Moulin Rouge is a movie I can watch over and over.One of the most memorable lines in it for me was "Thank you for

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-26586501157727113682007-07-21T10:40:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:51.820-05:00

One of the swaps I'm currently in asked why and how I started to knit.I'm not sure why it was appealing to me to begin with, other than simply stress relief. My mind races a lot of the time (or forgets to turn itself off when I try to sleep at night). I thought knitting would keep me engaged enough to let go and just relax before bed. And I had visions of alpaca and cashmere scarves/sweaters in

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-4960361043899988082007-07-21T10:13:00.001-04:002007-07-21T10:39:21.567-04:00

In the midst of all my stress related splurging, I also stumbled across this site:Sock Project Bags- completely customizable!So cute (and reversable!)Actually, the one that sold me on it was this one, and I'm not even a lime green person. But when I'm stressed, I like to clean and organize and I've come to the conclusion thatA) I have too much yarn stashed away with no purposeB) I have too many

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18312128788527922022007-07-20T00:15:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:52.101-05:00

I finally figured out the heel! It's a garter short row heel (I was so busy following the tutorial, I didn't realize it would be garter until I was halfway done). It's not perfect but its so much smoother than all of my previous attempts.It actually seemed much faster than picking up the gusset once I understood the tutorial.Off to bed... but what a relief it is to finally figure it out.

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-69969623816028659182007-07-18T08:00:00.000-04:002007-07-18T09:50:37.766-04:00

I've been seeing pictures of this fantastic sock yarn, Wollmeise, around the net. (Warning... look at your own risk- it's absolutely gorgeous).The colorways are so incredibly vibrant, but with it being from Germany, I've not seen it sold here in the States all that much. I've been waiting till The Loopy Ewe stocked it and this morning, I did a little stash enhancement to ease the stress of

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-81950484479461213082007-07-15T11:34:00.000-04:002007-07-16T07:23:24.655-04:00

One of the things that I like about Ravelry is the fact it helps me to organize my stash and projects. Sure, I could have probably done something similar if I had sat down with Excel or a notebook, but with school and work, I haven't had the time or energy and Ravelry's interface makes it much more fun.It reminded me of the fact that I have no idea what I want to do with a lot of items in my

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-4143097667216707152007-07-14T14:30:00.000-04:002007-07-14T15:08:06.325-04:00

Deep in the midst of my capstone project, I'm consoling myself with the idea of a roadtrip come this Labor Day. So far, we've sketched out a tentative plan that (hopefully) swings by Niagara Falls and then over to New Hampshire/Maine, which is one of the areas I am looking at possibly relocating. So we'll be spending a few days visiting different towns, getting a feel for the area, maybe speaking

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-61429734745306527812007-07-11T07:05:00.000-04:002007-07-11T07:16:48.459-04:00

I have knit/frogged this short row heel now more than 7 times. I'm down to two last options- watching it on a how-to DVD and then asking my not-very-friendly LYS to help. (there's a reason why I've never taken my knitting to them in the first place). Well, one last option is calling the local fiber guild and seeing if I can pay someone for a couple of hours of help. And somewhere in between I

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-79006494621783614832007-07-08T15:09:00.001-04:002007-07-08T15:21:52.405-04:00

I keep discovering exactly how cool Ravelry is! I was looking for a DK weight sock pattern, and went to their pattern section, clicked 'DK/sport' and 'Sock' and up pops....122 patterns in under 3 seconds!Absolutely amazing!! then I clicked on either 5 stars or 4 stars for the highest rated patterns, and it dropped down to 64 patterns, all with pictures.Oh, I can see this is going to be trouble...

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1832141205109921632007-07-08T09:17:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:52.381-05:00

What are your foot measurements? Usually size 8.5, but last few times I've been shopping I've been hovering between an 8 and an 8.5. Length of foot: 9.75"Circumference of ball of foot: 8.5"How long have you been knitting? A year and a halfHow would you rate your experience? Adventurous beginnerWhat is your favorite color? I don't have one specific favorite, but I like blues, greens, plums, as

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-84262937783576357462007-07-05T17:59:00.000-04:002007-07-05T18:02:23.070-04:00

Click at your own risk... these are almost too adorable for their own goodI'll write more later but we are on the way out the door to see Transformers....

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-71490080043089661852007-07-02T19:28:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:52.729-05:00

I received an awesome package from my SP10 Spoiler!I'm not sure if she's been secretly parked outside my window the past few months, but I'll prefer to think of her as my 'psychic friend'. She gave me a subscription to Cooking Light and some recipe cards (I am trying to learn how to cook healthier food, so this is a perfect gift. We've already marked a few of her recipes and some CL ones as 'Must

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-57301803914659731432007-07-01T22:44:00.000-04:002007-07-01T23:02:00.265-04:00

But I came back to some lovely packages from my Secret Pal, and my sock kit swap pal. I'll post these tomorrow when I've had a chance to take some pictures.We spent a couple of days in Baltimore to see the Aquarium and other sightseeing (and where I had a ton of excellent food... thank goodness we walked off all the calories). My favorite part? The Dolphin show and the excellent service/seafood

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-86413765077890072272007-06-28T06:56:00.000-04:002007-06-28T06:59:38.140-04:00

Argh. Four times I've knitted this heel and I'm STILL getting holes once I start picking up the wraps. How on earth can I avoid it? Any suggestions are welcome (and desperately needed).My sock pal only likes the short row heels so this is my only option. But I'm worried about being able to make two socks with these heels (with no holes).

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-29779408689548838702007-06-25T19:39:00.000-04:002007-06-25T19:55:17.591-04:00

Oooohhh my.Despite the fact that I am trying to streamline my stash in anticipation of my (hopefully) upcoming move once I graduate... I came across this yarn at The Loopy Ewe. I adore the colors. I'm not sure I need a worsted weight merino yarn for socks but Thuja or the Cabled Footies from the One Skein book come to mind... I haven't used the Boomerang before but I have used Fiesta Watermark

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-9781336496332104632007-06-21T07:28:00.000-04:002007-06-21T07:34:41.692-04:00

I'm a little nervous but I'll be trying my first short row heel tonight. I've got about six different tutorials to walk me through. So first thing I'll do is put a lifeline in (yes, I finally learned after many stressful froggings) and then we'll see how it goes. The pattern (Priscilla's Dream Socks by Priscilla Gibson-Roberts, seems pretty clear.Anyway, I love the socks so far, and I'm pleased

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-46068286495238458812007-06-17T19:37:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:53.126-05:00

First, I finished a baby sock and cast on the mate. It's so cute!Yarn: leftover scraps of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in Child's PlayPattern: Baby SocksNeedles: size 1 Knitpicks classic circularsThen, I finally found the pattern I want to use for my Sockapalooza socks, which fits my criteria (sport weight, cuff down, short row heels). It's Priscilla Gibson-Roberts' "Priscilla's Dream Socks" from

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-87691021394614427302007-06-14T22:46:00.001-04:002008-12-12T03:02:53.569-05:00

Amazing what progress I can do when I'm avoiding my homework.Here's also a picture of the front since it shows off the pattern better:I just took some pictures of yarn I was about to destash but I think I was a couple of days too late! I've heard some alternative sites have opened up for destashers, but can't find them anywhere.So I put them up on ravelry.com just in case. If anyone can point me

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-78478711449910061022007-06-12T20:58:00.000-04:002007-06-13T07:11:15.439-04:00

I rarely show my appreciation for those blogs I visit regularly. They are funny, informative, interesting, inspiring, and cause me to buy way too much yarn :) Sometimes they make me feel a little less alone with my fiber obsession. But above all else, they are coherent! Thank you.I've done a little blog surfing during a study break and the last two new ones I visited, I can't understand what they

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-31547408272098161492007-06-09T18:35:00.000-04:002007-06-09T19:41:53.052-04:00

I had no idea my capstone project would be so... big. Sure, I'm glad I didn't have to write a thesis but wow, this is a lot of work. My midterm is due next Monday (9 days) and I'm not sure how it will all get done before then, especially since I have entered the 'insane period' at work. This is the very last thing I will do for my degree. And I should be done with it in late July so the end is in

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-10348578313053627862007-06-07T23:15:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:53.766-05:00

I can't believe how quickly this Secret Pal exchange has gone by! Tonight I did the final packaging on the last bundle for my spoilee, and hope to ship it out tomorrow along with a few other packages that have been waiting patiently by the door for me to trek down to the Post Office.Now all I have to ship out is a swap-bot swap and a sock kit and some non-knitting TLC packages to go out early

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-64928250901536411602007-06-02T16:30:00.000-04:002007-06-02T16:49:10.779-04:00

This week has been a whirlwind of productivity. I'm glad it's finally the weekend and I can stop and take a breath.I have:updated my resume, which was a huge headache but I am happy with the final outcomepackaged up my Dulaan hats (7 total, and a pair of socks) to mail on Mondayput together several other packages which need to go outattended several school functions and spoke on a panel to

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-15827876745608995442007-06-01T18:31:00.000-04:002007-06-12T21:15:02.735-04:00

Thank you! It's done now!I am trying to research tourism trends in the US for my last big project in grad school.

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-23445942998787263152007-05-30T00:31:00.000-04:002007-05-30T00:38:23.047-04:00

I finally got around to ordering Favorite Socks today and I'm so excited! I'd love to do the Embossed Leaves Socks that my Sockret Pal made for me someday, and I've seen a couple of other patterns that will definitely make my queue. I'd love to move on to something more complex after the next couple of pairs.So that was my tiny splurge for myself for talking myself out of buying anything at the

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-57105014997574352052007-05-29T19:29:00.001-04:002007-05-29T20:13:25.911-04:00

I finally got my invite to the beta of a new knitting site called Ravelry and have spent a few hours playing with it. What a neat idea! The best part, for me, is that if I have a particular yarn I can see what others have made with it to get some ideas.So far, I've queued up some upcoming projects and started to list out my stash (yikes). Then I surfed over to see other's WIPs and stash, then hit

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-24962392323040393682007-05-23T18:55:00.000-04:002007-05-23T19:11:47.130-04:00

Well, I'm not sure these are particularly interesting... some of these were in the "wierd things about me" meme that came through a while ago but I've fleshed it out a bit.My awesome SP spoilee from last year tagged me... here you go!I love children's books and still read them often when I'm in the mood for a touch of comfort. Favorites include Little Women, Anne of Green Gables series, Narnia

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-65367847430981554572007-05-20T23:04:00.001-04:002008-12-12T03:02:54.299-05:00

Not a great week for knitting... I've been too mentally worn out to do much. I passed my stat class with an A- and with my last class starting tomorrow, I've spent my free time looking at what I'll do after graduation.But I did get some adventure in this weekend, perfect for an adrenalin junkie like me.It was our first time whitewater rafting and we picked a great time to try it out- our recent

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-84187063124905742622007-05-15T07:14:00.000-04:002007-05-15T07:19:17.975-04:00

I've come across a few patterns I'd like to try someday.Ariel ScarfSahara (v neck sweater)Lace nightieSilk Corset

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-15534116186178729722007-05-14T18:36:00.000-04:002007-05-14T23:03:17.605-04:00

I mailed off my final project this afternoon and my next class (my last class in the Masters program- woohooo) won't start until next Monday. I've been just puttering around the house since I got home, feeling this odd sense of 'don't know what to do with myself'. So I'm putting together my assorted Dulaan projects to mail out, along with a package to mail out to a swap pal.Hopefully tomorrow I'm

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-66332302761549786322007-05-11T19:00:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.223-05:00

I'm on the home stretch... my final project is due this weekend (and it's only about 40% done!) I came across this cute pattern for baby socks and I have some scraps of leftover sock yarn. So I might do some baby socks for near instant gratification.My Sockapalooza Pal mentioned greens, blues, purples... so I've narrowed it down to Cherry Tree Hill in Dusk (which I think will be my choice)Green

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-30284246879835671872007-05-10T07:22:00.000-04:002007-05-11T20:04:13.869-04:00

I've been matched and have been trying to come up with an pattern that will match my spoilee's preferences. She's not a fan of the heel flap which is all I know so that will be a fun challenge (and a good reason) to learn short row heels. All the patterns I'm finding for short row heels tend to be toe up which is also a new area for me. So I may be learning quite a bit with this!It's a lot of fun

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-20062616471336810012007-05-04T18:07:00.000-04:002007-05-04T18:20:04.505-04:00

For some odd reason I kept nodding off in my car on the drive home (which was NOT pleasant- everytime I jerked my eyes awake and realized I nearly fell asleep created this horrible knot in my stomach. I nearly pulled over but our highway shoulders are so narrow, I was worried about getting hit).I wasn't feeling tired until about 4 pm today, and I thought I slept pretty well last night, so I'm not

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-47446320279558987172007-05-02T07:12:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.347-05:00

I haven't had time to work on my socks, but here's the child's hat for Dulaan I've been working on out of various leftover yarns from stash. It should be finished this weekend- double stranding the worsted weight is making it go by pretty quickly and it is mindless which is what I need right now.

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-56192570670983754982007-04-29T11:23:00.000-04:002007-04-29T11:49:00.884-04:00

I'll still try to not buy excessive yarn, but it's too hard to overlook a fantastic sale. So I figured I would pass it along.Knitpicks has a one week sale (through 5/4) on their:Decadence (100% Superfine Alpaca)Panache (40% Baby Alpaca, 20% Cashmere, 20% Silk, 20% Extrafine Merino) Ambrosia (80% Baby Alpaca, 20% Cashmere) all for $3.99/skein.I've been dying to purchase some Ambrosia for myself

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-88110920045101441202007-04-28T17:52:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.454-05:00

Shelby, my hostess for SP10, asked about stash organization and I am probably not the one to ask. I normally seal mine up in zippered plastic bags and store them in a plastic bin with some lavendar cedar balls.But here's a peek at my sock stash that's under my bed... I took some of them out of the plastic bags since the glare was terrible. I'm in the middle of a major statistics project so this

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-53797157988051975392007-04-24T22:16:00.000-04:002007-04-24T22:36:16.459-04:00

I'm in the last 3 weeks of my graduate statistics class and our final project has me ripping out my hair. I am in no way a person who enjoys statistics. So I'm still alive, but not as active in knitting as I'd like.However, we do have most of our veggies planted in the garden with the exception of my herbs and strawberries which will be done this week. Thank goodness it finally stopped with the

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-19311207630168710922007-04-15T23:09:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.532-05:00

Not much to accompany this since I'm on my way to bed. But I'm very happy with this pattern (although it is not the easiest thing to knit while watching a TV show about a road race).But it did have Nathan Fillion in it. Yum.I hope my sock buddy is enjoying the pattern too! Let me know how it is going for you.

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-966778896833308392007-04-15T11:54:00.000-04:002007-04-15T17:25:56.390-04:00

I'm planning a pair of boot socks for G, and need to find the right kind of yarn for it:conservative in color, thick and snuggly, sock but long wearing, superwash.I was thinking of Socks that Rock Obsidian, Terra Firma or In the Navy but I'm not sure if I should try heavy weight or medium weight. And I'm not 100% sold on the colors- In the Navy is probably my favorite for him out of the three. I

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18162626337927343672007-04-10T12:43:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.671-05:00

I'm knitting Ampersand with my sock knitting buddy, who also has STR Medium Weight and knits about the same pace I do! This should be fun. :) So no Jaywalkers for a while. Tonight, I am going to swatch from the other end of my yarn on size 2 needles to see how that works.That will leave me time to also do Sockapalooza 4Signups are later today, I think.I did however find a new pattern that will

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-22911874228681632992007-04-09T06:38:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:55.872-05:00

I cast on my ampersand socks out of STR Mediumweight Watermelon Tourmaline (pattern found on Kirsten's sidebar here). I'm really liking the pattern- the chart is only two lines but after only knitting stockinette and basic ribbed socks, this one is a lot of fun without being overly complex. I'm going to double check gauge before I continue.You know, I've been pretty lucky with the yarn I've used

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-4753572370236470192007-04-06T08:32:00.000-04:002007-04-06T08:48:49.618-04:00

I haven't knit since I mailed off my Sockret Pal Reveal Package. I've been under the weather which has just left me exhausted, so I've been more 'futzy' than 'productive'. Mostly I've pored over the stash and different patterns to see what I wanted to do next (sockwise), and started winding the Bamboo yarn for the Feather and Fan Shawl but have not cast on.I knew I wanted to use the Medium Weight

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-89209402916291484662007-04-02T16:24:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:56.171-05:00

I finished my Lorna's Laces socks using the KAL Pattern (3x1 rib). The colorway is Child's Play, and I used size 1 needles (Knitpicks Classic circulars).I loved the feel of the Lorna's Laces shepherd sock, and will definitely use it again. I might go down to size 0 needles, and look for a pattern that works well with the striping/variegation of colors.These were definitely the socks I learned the

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-13078064186445743852007-04-01T11:25:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:56.481-05:00

I was burned out working on tiny needles, so I took a break to finally finish my Lamb's Pride socks. It only took an hour or so, and I feel much better having finished a WIP (and making my March deadline for Sock a Month 3)Here's the info:Lamb's Pride Worsted (Orchid Thistle)Size 5 circulars (Denise, Knitpicks Options)CIC children's sock patternThese didn't make the sock deadline for Afghans for

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1073685224029845112007-03-31T21:15:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:57.047-05:00

My Sockret Pal sent me the final reveal package and let me just say, it took my breath away!!! She's done such a wonderful job of spoiling me these past few months.She sent me some handknit socks that she dyed herself (details below), two soaps that smelled absolutely amazing, a Lantern Moon bag that I put my next sock project in already... and some yummy Aztec Hot Chocolate that we are going to

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-76971549472581535222007-03-28T22:17:00.000-04:002007-03-29T17:37:01.313-04:00

I went to the Loopy Ewe this evening to check out the newest additions, and fell in love!I've never heard of Cider Moon yarns but these colorways are simply gorgeous. (enlarge the close up pictures to get a taste of the colors... these are beautiful!!)IstanbulJuneauSo very tempting... I'm trying to be good but the Loopy Ewe makes it really hard.

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-9246769017845144752007-03-26T23:30:00.000-04:002007-03-26T23:36:39.129-04:00

I have a little more than 4 inches left to go on my first gift pair of socks- well, first completed matching pair of socks in general. I'm starting to get a little nervous. I've ripped these out more than a few times, trying to make them perfect since they are a gift for someone who is a very talented knitter. I want to be sure she feels she didn't get gypped with her exchange.I don't want to

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-45519093119859018842007-03-25T20:29:00.000-04:002007-03-26T07:39:40.787-04:00

First of all, I'm going to have to make a few modifications to my Knit From Stash pledge. I purchased some items for me today (darn that online purchasing... makes temptation too easy) but won't use them until I have cleared the same amount of skeins from my existing stash.Here's some of the neat patterns I've been considering lately, in addition to my socks and bamboo shawl:One Skein Cabled

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-51191239136996204582007-03-24T19:21:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:57.525-05:00

Finally, a pretty sky to capture on film. Or digital media card.I figured a sneak peek of my sock would be ok :) I'm now turning the heel- I can feel the home stretch just out of reach!!Details on the sock as soon as I've shipped it out.My poor, poor Aggies. I guess it was a good thing I didn't go home to watch them lose in the last 3 seconds. What a game, though!!I've been discovering some great

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-172649624669014382007-03-22T07:21:00.000-04:002007-03-22T08:36:59.273-04:00

First things first: Tonight, my alma mater (Fightin' Texas Aggies) plays in my old hometown (San Antonio) against Memphis in the Regional Semifinals. I'm so homesick I can taste it. I'd love to be there this week. GIG 'EM AGGIES! I'll be cheering for them in my neck of the woods.Update: I work with a trainer twice a week for a high intensity workout, plus I do things on my own for three days a

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-64456578524586074882007-03-20T00:20:00.000-04:002007-03-20T00:35:25.502-04:00

My SP hostess, Shelby, asked what we were currently working on. Since I am working on my reveal socks for my Sockret Pal, I can't show them yet. But I can talk about what is next on my list!I have some SWTC's Bamboo yarn in a lovely purple that I will be using to make this shawl for a gift for my grandmother. It's my first attempt at some sort of lacy pattern. It's a light dk weight, and the

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-65059321717575921862007-03-16T19:34:00.000-04:002007-03-17T09:18:19.263-04:00

This week has been mostly catching up on sleep and trying to organize an event for work which will, thankfully, be over on Sunday night.I've cast on for my second sock three times and keep having to frog it. Hopefully tonight is the one that takes. I have some time this weekend to knit for a change, and I'd really like to get good amount of Sock 2 done. I have everything else ready for my Sockret

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-38051865903279573312007-03-13T07:13:00.000-04:002007-03-13T07:29:53.182-04:00

I turned in all projects and my new class opened up, so I immediately checked my syllabus to see how busy I would be for the next nine weeks. This is the first time I've only taken one grad class at a time since I started the program last January, so I was a bit surprised when I read there was no written homework this weekend, and only 5 assignments overall. Usually I am researching and writing

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-2424804164550985282007-03-11T09:28:00.000-04:002007-03-11T09:47:53.168-04:00

Once I get through my finals in these classes and meeting the deadline for my Sockret Pal Socks, I'm going to be starting my organization project. So far on my list is: stash organization: I want to figure out a better system and more importantly, keep myself focused on the projects I have coming up so I don't get tempted to buy the next latest thing.queue up my WIPs so I can actually finish what

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-10296401551423374422007-03-11T08:53:00.000-04:002008-12-12T03:02:57.686-05:00

Note to my soon-to-be secret pal, please visit my sidebar to see my Secret Pal 10 Questionnaire.My first Sockret Pal sock is done and I'll be casting on for the second during a finals break today. To keep me motivated, I wound my Socks That Rock (Watermelon Tourmaline) for my April project and it's all ready to go once I finish this pair. I'm on a roll- or I will be once I finish everything

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-59073720419559061712007-03-09T17:58:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:02:58.363-05:00

I received my final package and reveal from my Secret Pal 9. She packed an amazing box of goodies for me:Cascade 220 in three sea-worthy colors as she called themA small scarf she knit out of Knitpicks Panache which is incredibly softSome yummy looking cookies which I hid so G and I can enjoy them tonight (except I'm really stressed right NOW and I hope they make it until tonight)A candle which

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-33352933712934121322007-03-07T21:05:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:02:58.784-05:00

Nearly done socks, and socks to be.I took in my Sockret socks-in-progress to work today, with hopes of knitting a bit at lunch. As it turns out, we got 6" of snow and no electricity (thus, no computer, no phones, no light and no heat!). I did what I could do without a computer but since I work primarily through email and design programs/word processors, it was not easy. And my supervisors seemed

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-58561051677963638862007-03-06T18:50:00.000-05:002007-03-06T19:05:44.255-05:00

I think I just did the yarn equivilant of eating my way through a whole box of Girl Scout cookies and THEN running out to buy another box!Knit from Stash sounded like a great idea at the time, but sticking to it.... needs improvement.I broke down, big time. I will try to blame it on stress from finals and finally receiving a belated birthday check from a family member (note: my b day is in

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-67656986635720813972007-03-05T12:37:00.000-05:002007-03-05T12:45:27.647-05:00

My Afghans for Afghans socks will not be done in time. I stayed up last night till 3 a.m. in a knitting frenzy and am halfway through the gusset, but I have 2 final projects due, one of which I swore to finish today to give myself a week to focus on the other one. And as much as I really want to finish these socks, I just can't let myself knit with that looming over me.Plus I completely forgot I

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-85015762387475108482007-03-03T00:12:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:02:59.485-05:00

I've come to the sad conclusion I am not making my deadline for the sock a month KAL for February (which was tonight). I'm pretty sure I could have finished my sockret pal socks if I had kept going (I'm nearly at my toe decreases on my first sock) but I stopped that and started some socks for Afghans for Afghans out of worsted weight Lamb's Pride. I'm on the second sock, about to start the heel

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-78823366275219674412007-02-27T17:52:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:02:59.668-05:00

I was rummaging around in the stash looking for items to donate, when I noticed my stash of Cascade Fixation I bought some time ago when I found the Cascade Fixation Ankle Sock KALI loved the idea of cotton ankle socks that knit up quickly on size 3 needles (especially ones made out of only one skein)! I especially love cotton socks for after pedicures, etc... wool just seems strange to wear.

knoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-74612582544828994742007-02-25T09:54:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:03:00.189-05:00

I found out this morning that one of the yarns on my "to try" list is being discontinued in the particular colorway I wanted (Trekking XXL, color 107). I finally decided I liked it enough to order it, and went shopping.I feel a bit bad about my lack of willpower but I've wanted that colorway since I started knitting. So I'm terrible at sticking to a yarn diet with discontinued items.I received

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-70302343420888594142007-02-20T21:39:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:03:00.445-05:00

The mailman was so kind to me today. I received a package from a friend with the cutest dishcloth inside (I think this is now the prettiest dishcloth I own- what a gorgeous pattern!) I also received a package from another friend with valentine's treats and a book I've been dying to borrow. Both were so sweet! Thank you!I have set aside my Sockret Pal socks to work on the ones for Afghans for

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-2226059990576178472007-02-18T17:11:00.000-05:002007-02-18T17:26:04.300-05:00

Afghans for Afghans is trying to collect 250 pairs of hand-knit wool children's socks by March 7, 2007. As of today, they have 53 pairs.Here's the detailsThey've recommended worsted weight wool to make a nice, thick sock, and have a few patterns to choose from. The children's range in ages 7-18 years, and some of the older children can wear a small adult size up to a women's large.I'm trying so

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-53585487721162158922007-02-17T13:02:00.001-05:002008-12-12T03:03:00.776-05:00

I am getting a bit tired of the snow and ice here. It's gone past pretty and now it is just plain dreary. This is my Saturday sky, which seems to be how it looks everyday.Since my skies are grey, I thought I would add a picture of something blue in honor of Project Spectrum 2.0. The colors for February and March are grey, white and blue.I found this pretty yarn tucked away in my stash- Lorna's

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-62592485918594459352007-02-16T00:29:00.000-05:002007-02-16T00:39:30.402-05:00

Well, I was making good progress on my socks for my Sockret Pal, until I noticed an inch back there was this strange hole in the space between my two circulars. I counted my stitches on each needle and sure enough, I had picked up a stitch. I tried dropping the extra stitch down and re-knitting the side stitches. But then I had extra yarn there that looked like a ladder. So I unknit, very slowly,

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-9372254467518357372007-02-14T00:47:00.000-05:002007-02-27T18:20:43.369-05:00

1. a.What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? Currently, it's sock yarn. But overall, my absolute favorite so far has been Watermark, by Fiesta Yarns. It's amazingly soft, and was the type of yarn I had to stop every three rows to pet and sigh over. Other favorites include: Lorna's Laces, Cherry Tree Hill, Classic Elite Lush, Knitpicks Shine and Ambrosia, Lamb's Pride.I have some Knitpicks

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-65958224319716191602007-02-12T14:40:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:03:01.395-05:00

Here's my awesome Scarf Kit I received:- A cute plate with matching mug-Ghirardelli Double Chocolate hot chocolate mmm!- Some cute plastic needles (they got lost in my picture with all the yarn!)- 3 skeins of this super soft wool/acrylic blend (Gedifra Fashion Trend Yarn) to make My So-Called Scarf . She included a print out of the pattern for me. The color is actually a deep cherry red with

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-74523996205856780472007-02-11T13:34:00.000-05:002007-02-11T13:40:53.364-05:00

I feel behind as I lost most of yesterday to working with Clinique to help them out during gift, and then heading to our local spa for a facial, chocolate massage and pedicure. I knit during the pedicure which I think threw off the pedicurist- I'm not one to dish with strangers but I think she was expecting to chatter with me through the whole thing (as it was there was someone there having a

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-31723779884466772852007-02-08T20:59:00.000-05:002007-02-08T21:09:56.622-05:00

I had possibly one of the worst days of my life today, and managed to hold it together until I left work about half an hour ago. I broke down and cried on the way home, and planned to take a hot bath and just go straight to bed. I came in and found two packages waiting for me. I'll take pictures tomorrow night when I'm a bit more clear headed.One was from my scarf swap pal and she put together

knoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-54514906110548562232007-02-04T10:49:00.001-05:002007-02-04T11:36:06.524-05:00

I've joined the Sock a Month KAL which should hopefully keep me on track to completing my socks and making sure I actually make pairs of socks, and not just random single ones. My goal is to complete 6 pairs of socks, one for each month from February - July. So my February pair will be my Sockret Pal pair, so that I can gift my pal with socks around the first of March in my final package/reveal

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1453477155520612092007-02-03T09:32:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:03:01.950-05:00

My camera, finally, is working again!I enjoyed my gorgeous Saturday sky (the first blue I've seen in about two weeks... lately everything's been in various muted tones of white and grey as it's snowed everyday).While relaxing, snow and grey skies can also be depressing after a while. So the sun and blue skies are an instant mood lifter.I also retrieved the pictures of the cute Knit Mit Kit Swap

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-55436744331811428062007-01-31T20:51:00.000-05:002007-01-31T20:53:19.610-05:00

I swap with Swap-bot!

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-56486831817834322132007-01-30T06:47:00.000-05:002007-01-30T06:58:22.937-05:00

I was able to frog back my sock to before the heel flap and I *think* I've fixed it. I've double checked all the stitches to make sure there were none lost/picked up in the process. What a headache.I think I am going to have to revise my knit from stash guidelines to include sock yarn. I've had an extremely stressful two weeks and I've realized I've turned to yarn-oogling for comfort (which is

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-81142858925373587282007-01-28T19:18:00.000-05:002007-08-02T19:11:45.192-04:00

This list is for my own reference and will be updated regularly, although any future secret pals, family or friends are certainly welcome to browse through it for gift ideas. :) Since my non-knitting family has no idea how many skeins make up a pair of socks, if I need a specific number of skeins I will note those as well.Apple Laine yarn (Apple Pie yarn) 50% Superwash Merino, 20% Silk, 20% Kid

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-28301049820535381972007-01-28T19:13:00.000-05:002007-01-28T19:18:18.267-05:00

Ugh. My perfect sock is no longer perfect. I followed the pattern wrong around the heel and then tried to tink it back- not the easiest when it's on two circulars and I'm not all that experienced at tinking or frogging. So then I tried frogging it back after picking up the stitches on a lower needle but that did not fare well, either. I'm going to have to frog back to the cuff before the heel

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-78110161855760375522007-01-27T10:39:00.000-05:002007-01-27T11:16:36.135-05:00

I'm trying to turn the heel on my sock and I'm not sure I am understanding the pattern, so it's on hold until I receive an answer on how to proceed. I wish I could get to that point where I logically can figure out what to do when stuck in a pattern but I'm not there yet. I tend to follow the pattern like a recipe until I can really understand the construction and techniques, but once I

knoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-78976839802057228202007-01-24T17:34:00.000-05:002007-01-24T17:40:25.728-05:00

I broke down and made a purchase of some sock yarn today. I have been making a sock out of Cherry Tree Hill Super Sport yarn and I adore it! However, it's been discontinued and I was so sad to hear that. I found someone who still had some stock left of it in colors I liked, and I splurged. I used the money from the sale of my textbooks (as if somehow, in my mind, that doesn't count) So I'm

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-18866705834105289882007-01-23T21:46:00.000-05:002007-01-23T21:54:19.892-05:00

Yesterday I received an awesome package from my Knit Mitt Kit pal, Terry-Jo! I had postponed writing about it until today since my camera is still not uploading pictures properly. But it would not upload at work, either! So I'll update this with the photos I took as soon as I can get my camera working.The package was wonderful- the bag she created was fantastic! It was a tiny red felt tote bag

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-91572787338334659872007-01-19T17:53:00.000-05:002007-01-19T18:20:57.093-05:00

Oh... this is SO cute!!! Martini Sock Blockers!! I love them! I'm just not sure I can order from Scout without being tempted by her gorgeous yarn.I was up at 3 am and could NOT go back to sleep this morning. I'm not sure why it didn't occur to me to work on my socks but I somehow thought knitting would acknowledge the fact I wasn't going to go back to bed. So instead I kept checking email or blog

knoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-77375821084949581952007-01-17T10:24:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:03:02.422-05:00

I mailed out my Knit Mitt Kit Swap gift yesterday. Here's a sneak peek at it:Felted Sheep Tote (pattern by Fiber Trends)Mitten Knitting NotecardsHand cream Hand dyed Lamb's Pride (by me!)Pattern, needlesExtra skein of Cashmerino Aran in teal tucked inside since my pal had mentioned wanting to knit Fetching with the recommended yarn

knoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1168485750675724772007-01-10T22:09:00.000-05:002007-01-10T22:22:30.886-05:00

I'm completely curious about this TOFUtsies sock yarn which is made of chitin (listed as shrimp and crab shells) amongst other things. I've heard it's fantastically soft and it has some super cute colorways, but am still waiting to hear some reviews.G and I signed up to do some ballroom and swing dancing classes from the local college. My big thing is to learn how to do the tango- it's one of my

knoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1168213490330492472007-01-07T17:53:00.000-05:002007-01-07T18:51:30.826-05:00

It's been warmer than usual but rainy, which means naps in the afternoon for me and Gypsy.School starts again tomorrow. For the first time, I'm less than thrilled about taking two courses at a time and if there was any way I could keep my July graduation date and move back one of my classes, I would. I keep telling myself it is only for 9 weeks, and after that, taking the last two classes (which

knoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21525056.post-1167869646598212782007-01-03T17:56:00.000-05:002007-01-03T21:07:51.986-05:00

My Saturday sky from this weekend- I finally figured out I can use my computer at work to retrieve the images I had stored on my camera. It was such a pretty morning :)Here's my progress so far on my Knit Mitt Kit Swap bag (along with my KIP bag from knitpicks that my sister picked for me!) The color turquoise is so much more vibrant but its so hard to capture that in the right light.And today,

knoreply@blogger.com0