Quickly

Sometimes I forget how quickly crochet goes. I'm already down to the skirt on the Bella Dress, and there's only about 14-16 rows until you start the bottom ruffle. I'm already on row 7, so I'm about halfway done. Once this is done (maybe this weekend?), I'm casting on my hook again two new patterns from Francine Toukou - the Fireside Capelet and the Little Red Riding Cowl. Both should be fast (crochet usually is) and Francine looks to be a terrific designer. I haven't used one of her patterns yet, but I have 3. The aforementioned two and a third called Flowers Head to Toe. For some reason, the Fireside Capelet isn't in Ravelry - maybe that will change soon. Francine also has a website, that you can see here. It's a lovely site that to be honest, I just stumbled upon as I was connecting the links to Ravelry. What I have seen of her designs are truly a wonderful use of crochet. We've all seen the horrid uses, like that 1974 vintage tissue box cover your grandmother lovingly crafted out of squeaky acrylic in Harvest Gold and Avocado Green - together with Burnt Orange. But these days, there are terrific patterns for crochet, and more being designed by fantastic designers. Maybe I'll add my name to that list one day.

Changing

Things are changing. I finished the socks, and started the Bella Dress. It's a beautiful crocheted dress for Princess. It's in a lovely French Blue, and I found a great purple silk to go underneath it. After the trip to Whipstitch, I'm inspired to sew. I even cleaned off a table so I can set up my sewing machine. However, since sewing is less portable than crochet or knitting (notice I didn't say not portable), I'm going to have to take up some more crochet projects. I found some great ones though - Deep South Fibers has some terrific independent designers. Maybe one day, they'll publish one of mine. There are also some designs in the works, but after I get a few other things done. I also have a couple of repair projects. School starts back in a couple of weeks, so that will be yet another layer of complication.

On the side, I just have a question: why is it that some people refuse to acknowledge the good, and exacerbate the bad? I mean, I understand when things are inconvenient, but seriously, if the good outweighs the bad, why focus on the bad?

Maybe next weekend I can sit down and sketch out a few ideas. I might be done with the Bella Dress and sew up the lining, then stitch it in. Cleaning also may happen.

Unleashed

I have been bitten by the creative bug. There is something about the first of the year and all it's promises that make me want to get crafty. I've picked up a few new crochet patterns, and started on an old one. I started on the Bella Dress from Interweave Crochet. It's a beautiful little dress, with a fabric lining. I just cleared off my kitchen table to set up my sewing machine. I've been checking out Whipstitch online, and reading Deborah's blog. I've been interested in sewing for a long time, especially since my mother sewed all the time while I was growing up, but never had the nerve/knack for it. Whipstitch offers sewing classes, both at their store in downtown/Midtown Atlanta as well as online. This of course, has piqued my interest. So, I bought some fabric to line the dress, and hopefully I won't make a wreck of it. If so, I always have my mother to fall back on. :) I would like to sew, and in clearing off the kitchen table, now I can set up my sewing machine, leave it (we don't eat on this little round table - it's not ideal, but the setting is because of the light available), and hopefully practice. I also finally broke down and bought Stitch by Stitch, Deborah's book. The shop was wonderful - even my mother was impressed. They have mostly quilting fabrics (read: 100% cotton, must be ironed if used for clothing) but the shop is spacious and airy with good light. What they do have isn't crammed onto shelves and stacked on top of each other so you can't find anything. It was thoughtfully laid out and nicely put together. There is even a table set up for classes! I highly recommend the shop, even if all you're looking for is a lining for a dress or a purse. At this early in the morning, I still have to get ready for work, so I'm off!

Misunderstood

I have been so tired this weekend - mainly due to Thursday night. Hubby and I went to a concert at the Tabernacle in downtown Atlanta. For those of you who haven't been, the Tabernacle is a converted church (yes, stained glass and all) that is now a concert venue. The acoustics are fantastic - when it's loud, it's really loud. There's even a crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling. So, the concert had three bands who played, and one member of the headlining band wears a hat. It's a cool knitted hat, like a watch cap with a small brim that he puts in the back. It has a cabled pattern, and I told him I liked it. He shook his head - he misunderstood. He thought I wanted it. Please - I'm a knitter. If I want it, I'll MAKE one. Don't get me wrong - it would ROCK to get this hat. This hat graces the head of Rob Caggiano, who is a phenomenal guitar player (and doesn't look half bad either, I have to admit). We usually get a guitar pick from a band when we go to a concert, so you can imagine that getting a hat would be unusually cool. Instead, we got a picture:

We were lucky enough to park right beside the tour buses and found Chuck Billy, the singer for Testament (one of the bands we saw) signing autographs, taking pictures with fans, and being a generally nice guy. These guys don't have "Rock Star" attitudes - they know without their fans, they wouldn't have a job.

So, back to the hat. This guy seriously needs a new hat. I noticed he kept having to push it up during the show. It kept slipping. That tells me it's too big. He needs a hat that fits. So, fan to the rescue. The one he was wearing was a cabled pattern; I've seen him wear one with a simpler diamond pattern as well. I guess he likes the small brim on it - I think both the hats I've seen him wear had them. It might be what he finds. In any case, there's a design brewing. I think it is actually too tall for him, and thus falls while playing. I'm sure that's annoying - imagine playing guitar and every time you look up at the audience, all you see is black wool. That would not be happy.

Friday required working late; Saturday required more working, pictures with Princess, birthday party with Little Man, and a little more work. Today was church and a pseudo-nap, and I'm tired. Maybe I can catch up on sleep and knitting this week.

I can't believe it

You know, it really helps to TURN THE HEEL on a sock before you start the gusset.

Today has been full of minor setbacks like this. The sock had one - apparently it's easy to forget a step like turning a heel when doing a sock. It must be easy, because I did it. I could blame Knit Night, as this was where I reached the end of the heel flap last night, and immediately started working the gusset, missing the critical part of the heel turn. Now, I'm not a sock expert, but I've knit a few. I know the anatomy of a sock (did you know that there are 7 parts to a sock, or at least 7 major steps in sock making? Can you name them all?). But somehow last night, at Knit Night, I ignored one. Maybe it was wishful thinking on my part to hurry up and get the sock done.

Work had a few minor setbacks, but they were all manageable. Today, there were a couple of other personal setbacks as well. But today, it didn't bother me. Those setbacks are less actual setbacks and more resets to spend more time to some other things. This is not always bad. Being able to take a step back and re-evaluate can be good, provided you want to re-evaluate. I happen to want to do this. I think of it as a rest period, which is good. We all need rest. And now it's time for me to get some more rest.

More work

I'm not even close to being done with Sock #2, and I have 2 more projects lined up. Fortunately, one is a repair and one is finishing someone else's work. Both of these are slightly dangerous - the repair is dangerous due to the possibility of it coming out, and finishing someone else's because of gauge. At any rate, there are 2 more projects to get finished before March 5th.

I was hoping to have Sock #2 almost finished by now, and instead, I'm blogging and watching a TV music documentary (Metal Evolution, if you must know - this week's episode is on Power Metal. It's quite interesting and educational to be honest). Maybe later this week I'll have more progress and pictures.

Next

My project list just keeps growing. As soon as I get one thing off, or almost off, something else climbs on to take its place. I am hoping to finish sock#2 for the barter project, and then make the blue V-neck sweater for Little Man and finish Princess' cardigan. However, today, a new project jumped on my list. I'm not complaining - I like new stuff. It's just that I'd hope to see the list shrink a little, and then I can add my stuff to it.

I want to make Cloudy Day and Kiama for me. I also have the Bella dress to make. Then there's another sheep to make, and a couple more sweaters for the kids. Honestly, I'd love to get the sock, blue sweater, and cardigan done before the next cold snap in February (we usually have one of those about mid-February where it gets REALLY cold) and it would be nice to have some hand-knit love for the kids to wrap around themselves.

In reality, I don't know that I'll make that deadline. However, I do have a major deadline looming - the last 2 classes for my MBA will begin March 5th. I do think I can get them made by then. After that, the following seven weeks will be miserable, but I think most the major deadlines for school will miss the major deadlines for work. Which works out nicely. But it's going to be rough, since I'll be taking 2 classes at the same time. This has never been tried before (by me) and I am a little worried that I'm going to feel overwhelmed and like I'm sinking into the Pit of Despair. Fortunately for me, "the Machine" won't suck away more than one year of my life (name that movie - although, let's face it, I made it pretty easy) since the Prince shouldn't come down and set it to 50. With my luck, it is possible though. Prince Humperdink randomly shows up and moves things on my desk, so setting the machine to 50 wouldn't be completely out of the question. It's either him or a gremlin/goblin/mischievous elf. Maybe a desk troll would help that. Or some counter-spell. Or maybe I should just rake everything off into the trashcan and start fresh. Oh well. That choice is for another day. Today, I'm just going to work on sock #2.

Almost...

I'm almost done with Sock #1 for the barter. That's good news. However, I messed up the toe, which is the bad news.

It feels like things are moving slowly, and yet too quickly.

My baby is now 5; it's hard to believe he's already 5. We had a party for him on Saturday, and all the kids loved it. I'm not quite sure about the parents, but I know the kids had a good time. That's what was important. And now I'm stuck with cake. Lots of cake. Chocolate cake. See, this is not a good thing. Most people would disagree, but when you are a stress eater, and you're under stress a LOT (read: all the time), this is actually bad. It would be fine if the stress wouldn't be constant, but it is. This is the bad part. Constant stress + stress eater = weight gain. Hence the bad part.

Stress is a whole new ball game. How much can one person take before they crack in some way or another? I think it depends on the person, and how you define "crack." Some would consider the stress-eating "cracking," but I'm talking about more serious issues. Depression, physical manifestations of stress, actions of stress. These things cause more problems than stress eating. How much longer? I don't know, so I knit. I knit to escape; I also read to escape. I received a new book for Christmas, The Scottish Prisoner, by Diana Gabaldon (one of my favorites); you can find out more about her here. For those of you unacquainted with Diana, she is a lovely woman from Arizona, who writes fantastic novels. These are not normal fiction - these are epics. Not only in size (they average over 800 pages; her "novellas" are 300-400 pages), but in story. They are some of the best modern fiction ever written. They have something for everyone - fantasy, science fiction, history, religion, magic, science, foreign language, romance - really, a little bit of everything. I have never found books that so completely fulfill the title of "fiction" before. I wish Hollywood would make her Outlander series into movies, although I doubt they could do the books justice. The first book alone would have to be an 8-hour movie in order to include everything, and you KNOW Hollywood won't do that. Abridged would be key, but it would have to be a good abridged version, like the one Geraldine James reads. Seriously, if you haven't gotten into these books, do so now. She's still writing them, which rocks for those of us who are avid readers. But I haven't read the latest. Guess what's getting started tonight? :) That should make my day better; that, and loving on my children.

Getting better

After suffering from a sinus infection, I am finally feeling a little better. This, just when I have a party for an almost 5 year old, is not a great plan. Timing is not a consideration for illnesses. In the meantime, I have finished one project this year already, and as soon as I can get the tripod and camera set up, I'll post pictures, provided I have permission. It's a test-knit pattern, and one that hasn't been released yet. So, I am moving on to project number 2 for 2012.

I am currently working on basic socks. The funny thing is, no matter what pattern I look at, nothing ever uses what I use to make a basic sock. So, once these are done, I plan on posting what I do for a basic sock. I've seen all kinds of "basic sock" patterns on Ravelry, and none of them use the same gauge as I do. It's odd - you'd think with so many sock patterns out there, there would be one that I could go back to time and time again. There's not. I always have to make it up as I go along. So, I'm going to write it down, and post it here. Then it will be here for all eternity. Well, maybe not eternity, but at least until the aliens come down and destroy the plant and suck all the energy out of it. :) Just kidding - the aliens won't come here; there's no intelligent life. :) Just kidding again.

Project number 3 and 4 are sweaters for the kiddos. Little Man has asked for two. One will be a plain blue V-neck sweater; again, one I have to create, since there are no actual patterns like what I'm working on. The second is actually a Pirate Sweater, and I'll have to get the yarn for that. I'm going to have to increase the size, because the pattern only goes up to a 3-4T. Unfortunately, although he's not the biggest kid in the class, he's bigger than that. So, more math. The sweater for Princess is one that I can follow a pattern for. It's the Playful Stripes sweater from Never Not Knitting. She has terrific patterns. I also want to make the Yoked Cardigan for myself and Princess. This one is by Hannah Fettig, and it will also actually be worked from the pattern. Imagine that; me actually working from a pattern!

This year also holds lots of promises in designing. I am consistently having brainstorms (unfortunately, this usually happens while at work) about new designs. I hope to have time to working on them, even just in working out some math before actually knitting them. And, not all of them are knitted. I have several crochet designs floating around as well. It all just takes time. Fortunately, I keep an idea notebook around and write down whatever ideas come. I try to make them as detailed as possible so when I do get back to them, I remember the original idea and can try to recreate it in fabric. I'm also trying to organize my projects on Ravelry, along with my queue. It actually doesn't take long, just a few minutes here and there. Til next time, which probably won't be too long! Can you believe I've already posted 4 times this year? What does that tell you?! (Probably that I should be cleaning, but instead, I'm blogging!).

So many knits, so little time

Since my last post, I was reminded of another project I have to undertake. I have also finished a project. One off, one on. Slowly, I hope to take more projects off the needles than put on. Right now, this will be project #2: a plain pair of socks. They should go quickly and easily. I think I'm just going to cast on 56 stitches, knit about an inch of ribbing, then go into the leg. After that, a quick round about the heel, and down the foot to the toe. Plain and simple, fast and easy. I hope.

New beginnings

This is a new year. New beginnings seem to be a requirement for new years. Everyone wants to start fresh and make this year better than last. Sometimes it works, sometimes it's less effective than hoped. This year, we're making big changes. There are big projects in the works, and it's going to take a lot of effort. I'm hoping to start here, with the blog. I want to keep it updated more, and look! My second post of the year already. I'd like
to post once a week, more if possible, but my goal is just once a week. I hope to always have some sort of progress to show.

I have 3 projects on the needles currently. Well, okay, that's not technically true. I have more than that on the needles. And in actuality, I only have 2

of the project that I consider "active." There is a super secret project that I'm working on; it's a test knit for a book. I haven't asked to give a sneak peek yet, so I can tell you that I'm working on it, that it's close to being done, and that I will ask to post pictures of the finished object. It will be done this month, since I need to have the notes to the designer by the 15th. I'm just a little over halfway through, so I think I'll make it. The second project is a sweater for Little Man. He requested a V-neck plain blue sweater, so that's what he's getting. You'd think it would be easy to find a pattern for that, but it's not. Most pattern

s have something extra; the wrong neckline, a cable, intarsia, or a knitted pattern. This one is going to be one of those great mindless knits, once all the math is done. It will be a great Knit Night project, or a great one for sitting in front of the TV. Not much to think about, and it should go quickly.

There are two other projects that are close to being finished, but are waiting because of the above projects. One is a cardigan for Princess. For those of you who don't know about Princess, let me share a picture with you:

Isn't she adorable? That's my baby girl at Halloween, where she was a precious ladybug.

The other project is a pair of Fiddler's Mitts from My Grandmother's Knitting. If you haven't looked at the book, please do. Find a copy in a store and browse through it. It has some lovely projects in it. Here's a picture of the Fiddler's Mitts:

Sorry; the picture is bigger than I thought it would be. But you can see the lovely pattern. The colors I selected are close to those in the picture: a kind of dark teal and a medium pink. I can't wait until they are done.

Here's to a new year, and new projects.

Post Christmas and New Years

Remember this?

Well, here is the recipient enjoying it:

Sorry for the bad shot, but you can tell she's excited. And these:

were met with joy as well:

The other two handmade gifts were also met with warm receptions, but I didn't capture those on film. I just took pictures before the gifts were wrapped.

The top picture is Kid Silk Creation, crocheted scarf (pattern on the label). The bottom is the Triplicity shawlette from Skacel's knit-a-long on Knit Purl's website. All the gifts were fairly easy and fast. I didn't get to make a couple of others I wanted to make, but I think this next year, I'll make one here and one there, and then by the time Christmas comes around, there won't be a rush. The Yarn Harlot this year did the same thing, and it turned out pretty good for her. There wasn't a huge rush to buy gifts or make them, because pre-planning happened. That's the goal for this year. It's New Year's, so that's my resolution. Pre-planning. It's a good resolution, right? I have some other plans in progress, and am really excited about them. When the time is right, I will announce the plans here, but for now, just let me say that they are BIG and exciting. You'll like it when I tell you.

Excited for Christmas

Actually, I'm excited about tomorrow. We have a weekend full of fun festive activities with the kids. And, one of those great things is I'm going to make wrapping paper with Little Man. This is going to be a terrific Christmas gift in and of itself. I'm becoming incredibly crafty in all kinds of ways. I like this. I'm using just some brown paper bags I've collected from Trader Joe's (although any brown paper bags will work) and some paint and markers. This should be an EASY craft to do, and great memories will be made.

Most of the gifts for Christmas are made; I have half of one left (a sock still has to be made for its partner). Here's what's done so far:

I still have to sew on the buttons and put the ribbon on it. Then there's this:

And somehow I can't find a picture of the scarf I made. Apparently, no one has taken a picture of one yet. I guess I'll have to tomorrow. Hopefully, tomorrow or Sunday I can take some pictures of the family and post a great shot of everything. We'll be decorating, baking, and having a great time this weekend. What makes your Christmas season special?

Fun Times

Christmas is fun when you have little ones. They get so excited about the tree, the presents, Santa, baking cookies, and seeing people (who bring them presents - it's a running theme). It's great to see their eyes light up at the tree and decorations. They love playing with friends in the cold outside, watching their breath float up into the air. Children love Advent Calendars, that let them count down to Christmas (again with the presents), especially when there's chocolate or candy involved.

It's fun to be a parent and experience the fun of Christmas through your children. It's also great when you're almost done with Christmas knitting, and you don't think you'll have to pull an all-nighter to get it all done. I might actually get to relax before Christmas.

Finding Relief

I have a million things to do. There is a group project I have to start, Christmas knitting to finish, Christmas knitting to start, cleaning to do, packing up toys, decorating for Christmas, and a zillion other things that I should do other than blog. Yet, here I am. Why? Maybe because today was a rough day for me.

You see, I have a job that, well, I just don't care for. I really don't like it; I would even go so far as to say I hate my job. Hate is a strong word for me, really. But this is the kind of job where everyday, I am tempted to quit. Just walk out, never to return. It never gets any better, although I can't say it ever gets any worse really, and it's a constant wearing on one's soul. I try to leave it at work, I really do. I want to have family time at home, and not be bothered with the trifles at work. However, this job does not let me do that. It follows me, like a gremlin, lurking behind doors and around corners, just waiting for me to let down my guard. That's my job - a gremlin. It consistently knocks down any attempt I have to get ahead, and once I do get a little ahead, I fall behind in something else. It's never ending. I used to think I disliked accounting - I really don't. I would gladly take a regular accounting job now. This is not the direction I want to go in my career, and I am stuck.

I find solace in blogging. This allows me an outlet, an escape. I have never wanted to quit a job so badly in my life, and yet I keep going. Just for a little while longer...until...I win the lottery. I guess in order to do that, I'd have to play. I am almost finished with one Christmas present - buttons have to be sewn on and a ribbon run through it, and then it's done. That will be two down. Since the knitting part of this one is finished, I count it as done. All the better for me. Now, I have just two, possibly three more gifts to make.

I'm starting earlier next year, and everyone's getting something handmade.

Crochet vs. Knit, the Ultimate Showdown

Crochet gets a bad rap. Yesterday, I voluntarily helped out at my LYS, and close to closing time, we received a complaint. A woman came in who was a crocheter, and was very disappointed with the reception she had received. This slightly surprised me, since I frequent this same shop and have never received such comments. Perhaps it's because I have proven myself as a knitter, and a crocheter. I am what is jokingly referred to as "bi-craftual" - I knit and crochet. I am in bewilderment as to why knitters frown so much on crochet. I can understand them not crocheting, just as I can understand how people do not knit. However, for someone to be critical of someone else's creative outlet, is just wrong. Who is to say that one craft is better than another? Who deems one craft higher on the "art scale" than another? Is painting better than embroidery? Is sewing better than scrapbooking? Really? Who is one crafter to judge another by what craft they make?

To be honest, I knit right now more than I crochet simply because knitting is a functional craft. I need functional items. Crochet is actually more "artsy" than knitting. The items created with crochet are usually decorative (not always, but I am speaking in generalities). Crochet gives us the infamous doilies to decorate tables (and I've seen some lovely ones framed), jewelry, the occasional scarf, shawl, and sweater, amigurumi, bowls, and the ever-popular joke of the yarn world - the tissue box cover. These items are generally a strict expression of art, not something to cuddle under and keep warm. These are not items to wear while braving the cold rain and snow on a dark winter's night. These are items to brighten our homes, walls, tables, and add to the "art factor" of our lives. These are an expression, an artistic expression, of the crocheter. It's not to say that crochet can't be used for functional items; I myself have crocheted an afghan which turned out fantastically, and the recipient is still glad to have it. Without crochet, some knit projects would not work out quite as well. I have a blanket, still in time out, that needs crochet in order to be finished. The squares were knit, but a border of crochet needs to be around each square before sewn together. Another bonus of crochet I have found is finishing. I find finishing in crochet actually EASIER than in knitting. The ends are easier to weave in and hide. There are not as many lovely patterns in crochet as there are in knit, at least for functional garments. I have seen some beautiful uses of crochet in garments, but there are many more that are horrible.

My main concern is that crochet will get lost. It is a viable craft, and one that deserves some respect. After the first of the year, watch out knitters - crochet is making a comeback.

Trying

It's so close to Thanksgiving - I'm trying so hard to get stuff done. It's not all coming together; things are taking longer than anticipated, both at home and at work, and there aren't enough hours in the day. Isn't there something to help that? Tonight, I'm going to knit, rather than cook. I think tomorrow night might find me skipping Knit Night and cooking instead. I still have cleaning to do and time is running out. Fortunately, most of the cleaning is detail stuff - nothing major. We're changing out a few regular recipes at the table on Thursday; nothing major, just new recipes using the same flavors - cranberries, sweet potatoes and stuffing. The turkey is getting an update as well - a little more spice rather than so plain. It should turn out really well. Hopefully, I can update over the weekend and let you know how things turned out. And, perhaps I'll even have an FO for you! Keep your fingers crossed!

More progress

I finished the Triplicity, and am almost through with the Ice Skating Cape. I haven't taken pictures yet, but will soon. That means 2 Christmas gifts down, and two to go. It's slower than I hoped, but there's still time.

Crazy Christmas Crafts

I was going for alliteration in the title - it should be just knitting. I've been so busy knitting the past 2 weeks, it's not even funny. I haven't even been knitting for all the gifts either. I've been working on these:

And I had to write the pattern and knit one sock for the Sock Guild at The Whole Nine Yarns. Aren't they lovely? I didn't get a chance to take a picture before I had to give the sock to the guild, but I'm sure I can get a picture soon. Isn't it wonderful now that I have a decent camera again?

There are so many things to knit now. I'm finishing this shawl from Knit Purl Hunter; I just have to finish the edging. I'm also starting this project:

This will be several hand-knit gifts this year. I also have 2 pair of socks to make: one will probably be plain (the color alone might give the recipient a reason to complain, so we won't add a pattern into the mix), and the other one is this:

I thought these were quite nice men's socks - my only complaint is the yarn I have to make them in. It's Online Sock yarn, and I have to say it isn't as nice as other sock yarns. It's a little rougher on my hands than I'd really like, and it seems to be a little thinner. I'll finish the first sock hopefully soon and post a picture of that one for you to see.

As for Christmas, while I truly believe in looking forward to the wonderful celebration that it is, let's not forget the holiday this month: Thanksgiving. It is a time to give thanks for our blessings. Even if things aren't going as well as you hoped, or things look really bad, or you just feel like things can't get any worse, just remember: you are blessed with life and liberty and the pursuit of happiness (at least in this country - others, I'm not familiar with your constitution if you have one so I can't speak to that). Some don't even have that. There is more than likely a roof over your head, food in your house, shoes on your feet (if you're wearing them right not, or at least shoes to put ON your feet if you're not) and obviously electricity to read this. You have some sort of education because you are reading this. There is always something to be thankful for, and we should remember that.

Friends don't let friends knit drunk...

but tipsy is okay.

Setting up

I'm working on several projects, and pictures are forthcoming. I'm starting the Knit-a-long from Skacel and KnitPurlHunter. It's a shawlette, and should be a great Christmas gift (one down, several left to go). I'm waiting on yarn for the Ice Skating Cape from My Grandmother's Knitting (another Christmas gift). I have the yarn for the Fiddler's Mitts from that book too; I'm not sure if I can make 2 pair from the yarn I have - one for a gift and one for me (I love fingerless mitts the way some people love socks). I have some sock yarn for another gift, and some socks already started as yet another gift. I think the sock yarn that has yet to go on the needles might be knit up in one of the Sock Guild patterns from The Whole Nine Yarns. I have to look through the book to see if one of the patterns will work for the person I'm knitting them for. I chose an un-practical yarn (hand-dyed tonal pink) for this person (my mother) who is immanently practical. I think at this point in her life, she can use some impracticality. Besides, these are NOT everyday socks - they are the ultimate comfort socks. Since she's diabetic, she should pamper her feet. They usually get cold during the winter, unlike the rest of her that busts out in a sweat at the drop of a hat, and hand-knit, hand-dyed socks just for her would be great. And I think the yarn I chose is superwash, which makes it even better. I hope I have enough time to finish all the projects I have picked out. I also hope those I don't currently have a project planned for aren't upset that I didn't have time to make them something too. This is the problem with making hand-knit gifts for family.

Catching up

I seem to be catching up on some knitting. School this time around isn't all that difficult, which is nice (of course, I say this BEFORE the final, although when I looked at the syllabus I didn't see one listed and they usually list those kinds of things). I have good news as well - I now have a camera. A decent one. So, that means once I get things together, pictures will be up! Yay!

I started the Mysterious Shawl #2 from The Whole Nine Yarns, but I'm stuck. I'm waiting on Clue #3, so I started knitting a few other things. :) There are so many wonderful things to knit; you can't knit just one! I started a cardigan for Princess and finished my sock pattern for TWNY Sock Guild (I just have to type it up). I have yarn for projects out the wazoo - I just need the time to knit. I'm slowly also getting the house organized and decorated. It takes a long time, and I have to do bits and pieces at a time, but it's coming together.

Til next time (soon, I hope)!

Close, and keep going

I'm getting closer. The new pattern is almost done. I still have to get a new camera to post pictures. Once I get that, life will be good. Pictures can be posted regularly and they'll be good pictures too. I have a few items finished, and once again, a camera would be helpful.

Work is better, and so is my perspective. It takes time and patience. Knitting should teach me that, and yet, there are times I still have a lot to learn. :)

Time flies

Work has been less crazy, though still aggravating. School started back, and I feel oddly calm about it. I've been rushing to get some repair projects done, and have half of them complete. I'm going to attempt to get a third one fixed tonight; it shouldn't take me too much longer. I have TONS of projects to photograph, yet have no camera to do it with, yet. I am slowly but surely taking care of things, one item at a time on my list. I find that if I do a little bit every day and don't procrastinate, I get so much more done and life is better for everyone. If I procrastinate (can you say cleaning for the Princess's party), then we rush around like chickens with our heads cut off - there's a great old Southern saying for you - and feel exhausted in the end. It has taken some time, but I'm slowly climbing out of the funk I've been in and am going to get back on top. Climbing the mountain is hard work, but maintaining the altitude is easier. It was a long fall, and a little bumpy on the way, but it's getting better, and that's all that matters.

Still waiting

I am trying to finish projects and get things posted. Somehow, life just doesn't work with me that way. I am slowly starting to get things back to normal after being in a out of work, post-baby, new job chaotic way of life. Fortunately, things are settling down and I'm getting into a groove again, only to have that groove thrown off by more work chaos and school about to start up again (I have 2 semesters to finish my master's - yay!). I am hoping to get a few things finished while still working through all of this, and planning out a few other things. Life is all about the journey, and you should make it a full one. However, sometimes I think I make mine a little too full - but no regrets! Fullness keeps you busy and at least you can never say that you wish you did such-and-such, because you did! There is the flip side of that as well, which is to take time to enjoy life. That happens too - don't let me fool you. I take lots of time to enjoy my kids and the things around me. However, you can't smell the roses forever - eventually you get used to the smell and it's no longer special. So, balance is key. That's what I'm striving for - balance. Enjoy!

Events

There have been lots of things going on around here. There's been travel (semi-good knitting time), new fun things to see and do, new projects and a couple of new designs, growing and learning, and even some not-so-good things.

A couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine passed away. We weren't all that close, but we had worked for 2 years together, and talked regularly. Once the company sold, we parted ways, but stayed connected via Facebook. His death was sudden (he was only 56) and anytime someone dies, it makes you think. I like the time of reflection - I think we should reflect more on our own lives sometimes and see if how we are living is truly how we should be living.

I have found recently that I am struggling to be myself again. It is not something horrendous, and I haven't become some monster, but things are not what they should be. Part of this, I think, comes from the recent death. Part of it comes from the new life that is my house. Part of it comes from certain circumstances beyond my control outside of my house. I continue on, dealing with it as best I can, and praying for it to be relieved soon. It is always a matter of time, and rarely on my schedule. But, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and I am very weak. Whatever strength I have is not my own. Whatever keeps me going is not me. In time, I might get some of my own strength back, but for now, I have to rest on Arms bigger than mine.

Figuring it out

I'm one of those odd people that has to set their mind to something in order to do it. I have a hard time staying focused, so it's really a surprise that I ever finish anything at all. I am easily distracted by the new stuff. I am actually shocked in some ways that I finished high school and college. School was always easy for me though. Speaking of which, I will be finishing my masters in the spring. I have 4 classes left, and I hope I can continue to finish objects as well as homework over the next few months. All that, plus two small kiddos, and a full-time job, leaves little time for fun. However, hubby and I have several fun trips planned between now and then, and I should be able to relax while doing all this. It's a delicate balancing act, but it can be done. Now I'm off to finish a project and take care of two children who should be asleep. :)

Problems

For some reason, Google Chrome will let me post, but IE won't. How odd is that? I guess from now on when I want to post, I need to use Google Chrome. At least that's an easy fix. :) I hope to now be posting more often, unless I start school again and life gets super crazy again, which it probably will.

Lost in the ether

Somewhere, I have fiberfill. I know I have at least one bag, probably two. However, it insists on hiding itself from me. I have finished projects, but for whatever reason, I can't take a decent picture, even with a video camera of them. Apparently my picture skills recently just suck.

I finished the pair of Skolnick I was working on, except for the duplicate stitching and weaving in the ends. I also finished the Pi Shawl, including blocking. I completed a felted sheep from A Felt Flock; it just needs to be stuffed. Hence the issue with the fiberfill. I know that as soon as I cannibalize one of the spare pillows around the house, the fiberfill will turn up. I was keeping the pillows for just this kind of occasion, but I know I have the bag(s) of fiberfill somewhere. I thought I could find them. I was obviously wrong.

I am currently working on a surprise project for Christmas in July at The Whole Nine Yarns. Then it's time to finish some of the other projects lying around the house. There are numerous pairs of socks, a shawl (plus 2 more in queue), two or three sweaters for me, at least one for Little Man, two or three for Princess, socks for Hubby, and the list goes on and on. In my defense, I have finished more this year than I have in a while, so I'm trying to keep the momentum going. I found yet another project bag stuffed full of half-finished projects that need to be completed. I keep thinking this year I'll be able to finish a lot of projects before starting new ones, but it never quite happens. We'll see what the last six months of this year holds.

Making Progress

I finished one repair project - a beautiful lace tablecloth. I'm still working on the Skolnick pattern, but at least the written pattern is done. I'm just test-knitting it again. I'm almost done with those, and there are so many other patterns to complete. I have so many WIPs, and there are not enough hours in the day to fit in enough knitting time to make significant progress. Now that my baby's older and not as needy, time to knit would be more except for the pesky day job thing to make a living. Still working on more knitting time though. :)

Slowing down

I'm slowing down, only to have to speed back up again. I have a repair project due by the 15th, and I still need to finish Skolnick. At least I finished the pattern corrections. I'm also headed back to the gym! This means more energy and a healthier lifestyle again. My new job is working out GREAT, except that I'm so busy at work I have no time to even think about anything else. I love it, and hope that it will slow down a little in a week or so. I stepped in to a bunch of fires, and when you're fighting fires, there's no breaks. It's not overwhelming, just busy. I need to actually take a lunch away from my desk, instead of eating there.

Back in the Saddle

I finally picked up knitting again. It was surprising - at my temp job, there was a knitting group! And, to beat all, most of them were new knitters. So, lots of help was needed. One other woman was an experienced knitter, and she had apparently taught several people to knit. The great thing is that it made me pick up a project again. I picked up Skolnick, to figure out what was wrong with the pattern. I realized I had written the chart incorrectly (minor boo-boos) but I have now fixed it and can put up the corrected version. I will also be finishing them soon (my own pair). I also still have to repair several projects, and once this semester is over, I will hopefully bang those out and return them to the EXTREMELY patient people who asked for the repairs to be done. Fortunately for me, I now have a new job to look forward to (a permanent one) and will hopefully continue to knit there during lunches once or twice a week. There are other goals as well to be reached, and I will need time to get everything into a routine once again. But it's coming. :)

Holy Guacamole, Batman!

I cannot believe how fast time has flown, and I still have yet to pick up my needles this year. I've been reading like crazy, but no knitting or crocheting. I have also been busy conducting a job search, which has led to a whole lot of interviews, one job offer, and still no work. I can hear you saying to yourself, who on earth would not take a job offered with 10% unemployment in the state of Georgia?! I would, if the price was too low. When the salary won't meet your needs (and I do mean needs, no wants here), it's foolish to take a job that will inevitably hang you upside down.

I have several projects that desperately need completion, and I haven't even picked up the needles yet. I have pants to match the February baby sweater, which ironically cannot be worn in February, because it's too flippin' warm to wear. Oh well - I need to get those pants done anyway and put the buttons on the sweater so it can be worn. I'm secretly hoping for a cold snap so the outfit can be shown off on the Princess.

This week will be a cleaning frenzy; taxes, Little Man's room and toys/playroom, the master bedroom, the desk, and Princess's room all need serious work. I have one interview this week on Thursday, and the rest of the week is free for cleaning. I hope that once the cleaning is done, job searching will be easier (or at least easier to focus on for me). Once that happens, maybe I can start working on other projects I need to finish.

Expectations

You would think not having a job would give me more time to knit. It really gives me less. I'm surprised at how little knitting I've actually done in the past 2 weeks. I don't think I've even picked up my needles. I have several repair projects to work on, and I am hoping to tackle one of those next week. It seems like there is always something to be done, and never knitting. School and homelife continue to get in the way, but then, I wouldn't trade my children for anything in the world, even knitting time! I love listening to and watching my son play, and I love seeing my baby girl be fascinated with her hands. They are sweet and aweing. Here's to more work for me! :)

Happy New Year!

It's that time again, for a new year to begin. Goals are made; some kept and some broken. This year, there are a lot of goals to be made, from a new job to personal goals to knitting and crocheting. First things first: I HAVE to finish some projects that have been waiting. Second, there are some personal items to take care of, and one has already turned into a war. Who knew that a 4 year old could be so stubborn? Third, hopefully this year will bring some payoffs, like a new job and a new degree.

The Christmas presents that were hand-knit were well received by all. Everyone loved their gift, and went home happy. :) That's a bonus. Maybe next year we can do a hand-made Christmas, but only if I get a move on it and work on projects throughout the year.

I hope everyone had a terrific holiday season, and can keep the memories of it throughout the year.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. The presents knitted were well received, even by my mother (long story, but she usually doesn't appreciate homemade gifts). One gift was not finished in time, and gifted in its unfinished state. My SIL was the recipient, and was so happy. She was actually going to ask me to make her a scarf, so knowing I was working on one for her thrilled her to no end. Hopefully pictures will be available soon.

I had a terrific Christmas, and was given some yarn and a swift. I look forward to creating something with the gifted yarn. There were other non-knitting related gifts, and one in particular was extraordinary. My loving hubby gifted me witih a restored doll from my youth. This was my first doll, and she had been in some disrepair for several years. Now, she is fixed. It was a perfectly wonderful gift. We even had snow on Christmas (a rarity around here).

I hope your Christmas was as wonderful as ours, and may the New Year hold many more blessings.

Not quite, but almost

Well, from my list last week, I almost did everything on it. I was mostly successful, but lacked a few areas. Here's the updated list:

1. Apply for 2 jobs by Wednesday - done
2. Finish two knitting projects by Saturday (12/11) - done
3. Post at least 2 blog entries - not done
4. Finish up the 2 classes online I'm currently taking by Tuesday - done
5. Get Christmas decorations up - partially done
6. Workout at least 3 times by Saturday (12/11) - partially done (I worked out twice)

Not bad, considering things are still not quite normal around here. By "not quite normal" I mean I still don't have a job. I doubt I'll have one before the holidays are over. I'm hoping in January something will come open for me. There are good job leads out there, but the holidays slow everything down.

How I missed posting last week I'll never figure out. I thought about it, but it just didn't work out for me. This week will hopefully be different. It already is, since I'm posting tonight. Saturday is a little more free (the one obligation I had has been cancelled). Hopefully the knitting projects will be a little better, and the workouts will get there too. I bought a jump rope in hopes that the love I once had for it will come back. I hope I can utilize some space in the sunroom to workout; I think the ceiling fan is high enough so I won't hit it with the rope.

It's been freezing here - no really, I mean actually freezing temperatures, like below 32 degrees. That's rare for Georgia. We don't normally get that cold of temperatures until sometime in January or February. We occasionally have snow, but this year so far, we've had flurries 3 times already, and it's not even Christmas yet! I hope to have snow for Christmas. That's even rarer in Georgia than just snow. We did have snow earlier this year, in February. It wasn't a lot (by the northern U.S. standards) but anything that accumulates here is considered a lot. Growing up in Tulsa makes you realize 3 foot snow drifts are a lot of snow, not 3 inches.

On the knitting front, there are 2 more knitting projects for Christmas to be completed. Fortunately, I'm about halfway done with one and that's been about 4 days worth of knitting. This one has a lot of color changes, so it takes a little longer than normal. I'm kicking up the knitting time, and I'm hoping to get this one finished by this weekend, and get the other one knocked out before Christmas.

Goals for this week: finish the one Christmas present, get the other one started, and start the new exercise program (thanks to Oxygen Fitness for Women magazine for the routine). The rest of the Christmas decorations need to get up as well. I'm about 30% on those. Posting I'll keep at 2 times for this week as well. I'm down to one more post by Saturday. I think I can manage that. :)

Busy days and nights

These days, I'm finding more focus, and a little more time. It's becoming easier to fall into a rhythm between homework, daily chores, and all the extras I want to do. I can't promise that all my blogs will be about crafts; but hey, "It's my blog and I'll post what I want to..." (apologies to Leslie Gore). The more I can accomplish during the day, the more I feel like accomplishing and the more I can accomplish. So, here's the agenda for the next week:

1. Apply for at least 2 jobs by Wednesday
2. Finish two knitting projects by Saturday (12/11)
3. Post at least 2 blog entries
4. Finish up the 2 classes online I'm currently taking by Tuesday
5. Get Christmas decorations up
6. Workout at least 3 times by Saturday (12/11)

For those of you who don't know, I lost a good bit of weight last year, and this year it was stymied by the arrival of a new little one. However, I am determined to get back on track, even without a gym membership. I have plenty of stuff that I can do at home, provided I focus just on that. As a mom, it's hard. I see things that need doing, and immediately want to do them. I have found one thing to be true: the more you exercise, the more energy you have. You would think the opposite to be true, but really, what the experts say does hold water. For whatever reason, now that I'm home and not working out consistently, I need at least 8 hours of sleep a night. Before, when I was up at 4:30 most mornings to go to the gym, I was fine on about 6 hours of sleep. My activitiy level hasn't changed much, since I was working a day job, and now I'm working the homefront. If anything, I have a higher activity level. At any rate, the above looks good for goals for this coming week. I'll post some updates along the way (if I keep up with #3) and hopefully I'll also get the good camera back and can post some pictures of Finished Objects.

December

This is my second greatest finished object - I don't think 000 size needles can compete.

So, other than this, my days have been filled with my first great FO, who is now potty trained, job hunting, school and knitting. Yes, I do manage to find time to knit. I recently finished the top down raglan from the Spud and Chloe blog. I loved it so much, I bought the book Custom Knits and started Pink.

It's a new month, and I have new goals. Obviously, a day job would be terrific. In the meantime, I refuse to be left out in the cold. I plan on updating the blog regularly, school will also take up a lot of time, and then there are the kids. Christmas is also quickly approaching, which means a few gifts to be knit (it's surprisingly cheaper when you have the time to knit). I plan on utilizing my time wisely while still at home. I have already started some projects to organize the house, and more of those will come as the month progresses. Today begins a new month, and a new committment. When I can get the good camera back, I will take pictures of the next few FOs I should have completed (yes, I can actually finish a project). I do enjoy being a process knitter, but there are times when FOs really boost your morale. Perhaps I will even have pictures of the FOs with their intended recipients. Maybe traffic will also pick up around here. :) Although this blog is more for me, I hope to reach some and help where I can.

New happenings

Well, there's been a lot going on around here, and yet, not a whole lot has changed on the knitting front.

Our baby girl entered the world on September 3rd, and she made it fast. We're talking 3 hours and 20 minutes of labor, people! She was ready to come and didn't waste any time about it.

I started working on the top-down raglan knitalong from Spud and Chloe. If you haven't been over there, go check it out. It's easy to follow instructions and moves fairly quickly. I'm about halfway done with mine, and I've been trying to catch up on sleep from having a baby! I'm working on the body, and don't have that much left. I hope by the end of the month to have a new sweater, and from the way the weather is progressing, I'm going to need it.

There are several projects waiting to get out of the WIP basket (and yes, I now have a basket, although not all the works-in-progress can fit in it...it in itself is a work in progress) and I'm slowly but surely finishing my EZ Pie Shawl. There are a few baby things in there as well (buttons must be found and sewn on). Once I can clear it out, new projects can fill it. And trust me, there is a long list of those projects! Two new sweaters are waiting, afghans will be crocheted and knitted, and more baby things are to come!

Finally!

I found the solution to the edging on the Pi Shawl. I emailed Schoolhouse Press, and was rather surprised that Meg emailed me back yesterday. I had also scoured the internet, and found some directions that were helpful. However, I have to say, Meg's directions were a little better (she suggested a provisional cast on, which is PERFECT). I'm hoping the shawl will be done soon - and I can post pictures. I'm planning to take a few more pictures, and I have a TON to upload, so we should have a plethora of pictures soon on here. :) Here's to time on my side...hopefully.

Changes

I'm slowly but surely changing things...as you can tell by the new updates. I'm still working on it, but it's a start. I have pictures - I just need to download them from my camera to my computer. It's a process. I'm close to being done with EZ's Pi Shawl. The last section feels like it's taking forever. I have 5 rows left, plus the edging. So far, so good. I have to hurry though, and that makes me want to do nothing but knit...including ignoring school work and housework. Thus far, I've been successful in not avoiding either, and keeping up with things. I'm hoping maybe this weekend I can take a little time to relax and knit for a while. I'm not counting on it though. I have too much to do. I do hope to update the blog a little more and get a few pictures up (just have to download them to the computer...really, 15 minutes is all I need to make time for...perhaps on Sunday).

Baby's doing well, as is Little Man. He's getting over a little sinus issue, and Hubby has now picked it up (maybe it's actually a cold that I'm immune to?). If I didn't have to work (and since I probably won't have a job soon, that statement might be "since I am out of work"), I could get SOOO much more done. Work seems to get in the way of life. I have painting, cleaning, knitting, cooking, baking, sewing, crocheting, and learning I want to do, and work takes up most of my day. I guess that's just life. It kinda sucks like that.

Good news - a new concert for us to go see! Well, actually, it's not NEW, it's the second leg of a tour that we didn't get to see the first time because I passed out. Twice. Long story...but the EMT was partially to blame. Anywho, we're going again and it should be fun since we'll have at least one other person with us. This fall will ROCK! :)

Still working...for now

I'm still working on projects - I did finish the February Baby Sweater, but need buttons. I have buttons for the Hawthorn, but I have yet to finish that. I'm still working on the EZ Pi Shawl.

In other news, last month was definitely in turmoil for me. After hitting the 6 month mark for Baby#2, my MBA program started. Then the same week as the final for the first class, my company announced they had entered into a "Definitive Agreement" with another company to purchase them. For those who don't understand what that means (and that was several people at my office), it means in 3-6 months after the sale is final, our office will close. Permanently. Forever. No more job. Start looking now. Then I had 2 group projects and a final due and a new class started, all in that same week. It was insane. Not to mention I started nesting in a major way, and the whole house was a bit jumbled for a week. Little Man finally has a big boy room though, and the baby's room is in progress. The kitchen was also upheaved, due to the potential of a new refrigerator. That didn't work too well, and so we were back to square 1. We did purchase a new King Size bed - how did we ever sleep so long on that full-size mattress that was so old?! - and I'm so glad we did. That bed is pure heaven. Sleep is better, which makes eating better, which means I'm back in the gym, and I have more energy (although it still gets depleted easily). I'm also beginning to switch to a new eating plan - the Eat Clean Diet. More to come on that later.

Back to knitting: the Pi Shawl is coming along well. I had a minor issue getting to the last section (576 stitches!) but I did correct the problem. Stitch markers, even on an easy lace shawl, are your friend. Never forget that. I hope to make a few changes around here as well - we'll see if I can get a few things done between now and the end of the month. I hope so. Keep your fingers crossed - things are looking up. :)

Finished, well, almost

I have finished (almost) a few things - like the February baby sweater, the Cross over baby sweater and the Pants to match. I haven't completely finished them...they are still awaiting buttons and ribbons and elastic. There are a couple of ends to still weave in on the FBS, but all in all, they are completed. No more knitting for them. Now, we're on to more adult things. Well, travel knitting from EZ to be exact. I started the Pi Shawl. It's the lovely lace one, with the 3 different patterns in it. I hope I can finish it before July actually (her month of travel knitting). I have a tendency to start large projects and not finish them. This one will require some blocking pins and maybe something new will encourage me to finish. We'll see how it goes. I'm waiting on pictures from NOLA for the Lidsville hat I sent via my 'rents to my brother. I hope to post some pictures soon. I also have a potential new pattern that I transcribed to post, with pictures of the original. Hopefully I'll have time this weekend to get some more pictures taken, update Ravelry, and this blog. I've been wanting to change a few things around, and just needed the time. Of course, the busier I am, the more things I try to add to my to-do list - go figure.

Something old, something new...

I have a new laptop, which totally rocks. This means (hopefully) more regular updates, since I can now get on the 'net from the comfort of my very own couch. Not having to drag my sorry self downstairs will get me online much more often...well, that and school work. I started my MBA, but not before I did technically finish one knit item (ok, I finished it this past weekend, and school started on the 5th). What this really tells me is when I'm really busy and think my plate is full, I have a tendency to get more regular work done.

I also started some new projects, or at least gathered the materials for them. I will soon post some pictures...when a) I get some to post and b) I think about actually uploading the photos. I'm close to finishing another couple of projects, and plan on finishing one by the weekend. I have another one scheduled for later this month as well. Who knew being pregnant and starting school would make me get more knitting done? Does that mean I should always be busier, as I will accomplish more? Just a theory...

Another post, and a new website!

I just ahve to mention that Erica Lea over at Simple Days is giving away a hand-knit dishcloth for commenting on her blog! She does have the pattern up, and is ingenious for using 2 strands of crochet thread held together, rather than kitchen cotton for them. How fantastic! She also has a great cooking website, Cooking for Seven, and I would highly recommend checking her out! She's a terrific crafty young lady, and worth the read! :)

Holy Crap!

I knew it'd been a while since I last posted, but I didn't realize it had been so long. So much has happened since the last time I posted...let's see if I can catch you up quickly.



1) Expecting baby #2 - will find out if it's a boy or a girl on April 20th. Watch for more news!

2) Have had a slightly different pregnancy this time around - passed out a couple of times and had nausea. I know, lovely thoughts.

3) I've picked up a few jobs here and there (knitting and crochet) - one being writing a pattern for a vest (working on it feverishly, but it's been rough with being pregnant). Also, have 2 more repair jobs in crochet to hopefully soon get done.

4) I've been asked to make a sweater for STITCHES South - EXTREMELY excited about this one. It should be lovely. I'll post more once everything has been received.

5) I did finally hear back from the recipient of the fingerless mitts - they were received and accepted gratefully.



I still have a TON of projects going on - I tried to compete in the Ravelympics. I made progress on the project, but didn't finish it. I hope to finish the vest pattern, then a couple of hats, then a sweater for Little Man, and hopefully move on from there. I'm really trying to finish stuff this year, but I continue to get side-tracked! More posting later!

Coming Soon...

Thanks to Jolie for posting about my pattern. She's a very cool knitter - very visual in her style. I always like to see what she's working on - it always gives me a new perspective. She takes it beyond function and makes knitting almost geometric in her designs and color work.

I've been keeping busy by working on my January project. I'm trying to work through EZ's Knitting Almanac in a way, using projects I already either have the yarn for or have cast on. This way, I have a goal, I'm using stash, and I'm cleaning out current WIPs. This month is a sweater, and I have been eyeing the Knit Picks Gloss in my stash. I found the perfect pattern from Knitty (Zora) and have been working on it diligently. I don't know that it will get done in January (I have a sweater to repair and a hat to finish for my brother) but there's a good start on it. I'm also making notes as I go, so if I have to put it down in February, I'll know where I am and the modifications I've been making (amazing - I think I've grown up as a knitter). :)

Here are some pictures of what I've already finished this year:

Noro Scarf from J. Flood

Turn-a-Square Hat from J. Flood (a family of 3 - only mine is pictured here)

Lidsville from D. Stoller's Son of Stitch & Bitch (Little Man as model - I think I constructed it incorrectly, and plan on fixing it)

Autumn Sun Wrap from Crochet in Color (shop sample at TWNY)

That should take care of most of what's been going on - other than the holidays, and Little Man's 3rd birthday. I found some pattern errors in Skolnick, so I'll be working on that in the coming months as well. A huge thanks to Jolie for test knitting them for me. I'm still working on confirmation that the recipient of the originals received them - Alex? Hello?

Look for exciting updates coming. Oh, and I decided to participate in the Ravelympics in February. Staying true (somewhat) to EZ's Knitting Almanac, I'm going for the WIP event with Little Man's sweater. I really want to finish it, but the cables are killing me. Maybe this will be the push I need to get it done. Finishing that will also help when I finish Zora, since I'm working both cardigans as one large piece rather than 3 separate pieces as the pattern calls for and having to seam them. I'd rather have the ease of knitting one large piece, keeping my gauge the same, and not having to seam - it's a complete win/win, except when the directions don't work with you.

Finish in 2010

It looks like this year will be a year for finishing. I have several projects on the needles (try at least a dozen if not more) plus yarn to make many other things. I have already completed a few things, and will post pictures hopefully this weekend. Other things will be finished soon, and my goal is to finish at least one project a month. Nice goal, right? We'll see how well that works. As far as blogging goes, I'm hoping to get back into a regular habit of blogging at least twice a month, once with a progress report and once with a finished object. If I can post more, I will. That's all for now - watch for updates! :)

Pattern Erratta

I started working my own pattern, and have found errors. That really sucked. So, in an effort to be a consciencious designer, I'm fixing it. Well, as I work it, so after this week, a new version should be posted. Hopefully, someone will actually pay attention and download it. I seriously need to figure out how to post a PDF file, and how to convert the Word file into PDF. If I can do that, we'll be all set.

This week should be fun - hubby's birthday, a mini-vacation at the in-laws, a virtually stress-free Thanksgiving, and a fun holiday concert. Look for an update on Hubby's birthday next week. :)

Updates

I've been working on stuff, seriously. I completed all 3 Turn-A-Square hats, a Noro scarf, plus a couple of repair projects. I've been working like crazy for a while, then in lulls get a chance to actually knit or crochet something. I've also been working on a crochet wrap for TWNY and still waiting on yarn to finish it. It will all come together.

In other news, Little Man has been battling a cold, Hubby's picking it (or something worse) up, and it looks like it's striking Mom next. This is not good news since next week is Thanksgiving and Hubby's birthday. We have plans, and those plans do not include being sick. I also don't want to be sick for the TSO show in Greenville on the 27th! Hopefully extra rest, water, Vitamin C and some chicken soup will make it all better. :)

New Stuff

Oh, there has been knitting going on...I swear I've finished things. I completed 3 dishcloths (doesn't sound exciting, I know, but sometimes you need a quick finish project that you can do while you watch your 2-year-old run around a room), and have started a sweater for Little Man. He's surrounded by much knitted love. :) I also completed another shawl for a lovely lady who frequents the shop. She still considers herself a beginner (I think she could do more if she'd pick something other than garter stitch) and needed the edging done for her. She's not a crocheter (understandable; not everyone can be a great hooker!) and wanted the shawl finished sometime this century. Fortunately, her order came at a perfect time to distract me (during some serious losses). I finished and blocked it, and she adored it. Pictures to come later - when maybe I have a little more time, and some new batteries in the camera.

Oh, on a side note, the bathroom is to be painted this weekend (thank goodness for long weekends). Will post those pics too.

In honor of Bruce

This past month, so many things have happened. I don't know that this is the time or the place to say everything, but one of the many downs this past month was the loss of a friend. He was a good friend, a great knitter, and he will be missed terribly. His name was Bruce, and he was a huge fan of lace. Bruce was incredibly smart, not just book smart, but everything smart. And he never lorded it over anyone; he was always happy to give a word of advice when asked or help you understand something. He had a quirky sense of humor (let's face it - math jokes aren't everyone's cup of tea, but Bruce enjoyed a good one), and the depth of knowledge he had about science, math, and his favorite - knitting, was amazing. The ability to pick his brain over something so small seemed to be one of his favorite past times. No question was ever stupid (only the unasked one) and no detail to small to be described to the utmost perfection. In honor of Bruce, I picked up my shawl again, and will finish it in his memory.

It doesn't look like much now, but that's the beauty of lace. It's the "ugly duckling" of knitting. It starts out all crumpled and horrible, then once it's stretched out, it turns into the most delicate and beautiful work of art.

You will notice the lovely bobbles hanging from the work - those are my stitch markers. Gotta love that! I made them on the cheap. Not bad for a $10 investment. And it makes the lace go incredibly smoothly while working the pattern. Now I get it.

Unfortunately, Bruce was the only one at TWNY to teach a lace class. A mutual friend of ours I think got to pick his brain more than anyone else, and I hope that she will continue his tradition at some point (or someone will pick it up). She also has a lovely tribute to Bruce on her site. I only hope to reach his expertise someday with lace and other knitting. So, in loving honor of Bruce, please knit on.

Done!

Alright...it's done. It's ready to download...won't someone please download it? :)

I'm back!

I finally got it all together, including the time to post pictures! Woot! So, without further ado...

This is Skolnick...look like an ordinary fingerless mitt? Ha! Not quite...

It's a rockin' good time. Inspired by Alex Skolnick (a FABULOUS guitarist), I designed these. I have the pattern all written up, and I'm ready to post it. Are you ready? First of all, it will be offered in Ravelry, and secondly, I may see if I can post it here (just have to figure out how). I've been busy, even if I haven't been posting. I'm also sending a copy of the pattern and the actual mitts to the inspiration (just because I can!). Let's hope it's received with a warm welcome, even though they'll be sent in July.

How long?

I know...it's been ages. Is it too late to post again? As long as the blog is still here, I guess not. I have not been idle - oh, on the contrary. I have been more busy than usual, which is why no posts. As I type, I JUST found the cord for the camera! Hallelujah! Pictures at last! Expect another update soon. I've not fallen off the face of the earth, just the wagon. :)

Another month...

And I still haven't managed to post much. Oh well...I'm still working on the Super Secret Christmas Present (SSCP), and a couple of other projects. When I get a spare moment (maybe when I'm off for Thanksgiving?!) I'll take some pictures and post a few things. Maybe I can get a break then. I hope so...if not, I'll just post about once a month when I think about it. Haha! Work is still going really well, and Avon (for those of you who haven't noticed, I'm an Avon Representative now) is still going. I'm not doing as well as I hoped, but better than I feared. I usually land somewhere in the middle.

We had tickets to Trans Siberian Orchestra on Sunday, and Little Man is still recouperating from it. The show was amazing, and we stayed after to meet the band. Who doesn't love musicians?! In any case, that's all I have for now. Hopefully soon I can post some more. :)

Time flies...

when you're working and can't stop going for 10 minutes. It's been a wild 6 weeks. The new job is good, and I'm working on finding the balance again.

Believe it or not, I am finding a few stolen moments to knit from time to time. I'm re-vamping the "Knit to Fit" class...which by the way, is the ONLY class in the area where you learn basically how to write your own pattern and create a sweater for yourself to fit you (shameless plug, but hey, when you got it, flaunt it). I am actually working on a project, which must remain in secret for the recipient does occasionally read this and no spoiling the surprise. It is a holiday gift though...that much I can tell. I would like to get a few holiday gifts made before December, but the only way to do that is to work incessantly on them (which still might happen...who knows?). I'm currently avoiding housework in favor of updating this blog, and I'm about to go upstairs and knit while I watch some TV. Nothing wrong with some TV knitting...they fit well together. :)

So much to do!

Ack! There's so much to do...Avon is going well, thanks to those who order from me! I'm really enjoying it too. Work is not too bad. I've been there for almost a full 3 weeks, and am getting properly trained (thank the Lord). Did I mention I'm working again? Maybe I didn't...so, I'm working again. A regular, full-time accounting position. It's closer to home, more money, better environment...all around a good move. I'm still not thrilled with having to work outside the home, but our finances dictate otherwise. In any case, both jobs are actually doing well, although the Avon side could use a little help (please shop online here!).

I'm starting to teach at TWNY as well. Saturday is my first class, and I'm so excited!!!! It's my Knit to Fit class. I have only 4 spots left (hurry and fill them!) and it should be a lot of fun. The class will only last a couple of hours for the next 3 Saturdays. You'll get to make a fabulous sweater vest (one of the season's hot looks, for those who like to be up-to-date in their wardrobe) and it will be customized to you! You can go here to sign up. The staff is terrific, and I'm thrilled to teach...again. :) That's all for now...must run and get ready for work!

In Loving Memory

I'm a day late, and several dollars short. Go figure. Here are some pictures of the last projects...with the exception of the vest.

The Leaves Sweater (none with me wearing it...there ain't no way I'm squeezing into a size M sweater).

Here's the Baby Cardigan from Debbie Bliss, upsized to fit my almost 2 year old; the button band is still awaiting completion (possibly this weekend).

Here's the blanket that's been in timeout since it was misbehaving (check out the puckering that is no more...we're working on fixing that).

There are several more squares, but Blogger might get overloaded with all the images. Here's the Baby Surprise Jacket from EZ I did...it's just missing buttons, but only until I decide if it's going to a boy or a girl (although I'm tempted to put the buttons on anyway, and just deal with the consequences later).

The title is for the friend that we buried today. Mr. J.T. Reeves went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday. He was 85 years young, and a couple of months ago was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. He was a vibrant, strong, loving man who made my hubby and I want to be at our church all the time. He always asked about us, our son (he never failed to ask us "how's our boy doing?") and he made sure everyone felt welcome and loved. He truly embodied Christ's love for his fellow man, and he will be truly missed. We love you, J.T., and now you can encourage the angels. :)

Oh, I almost forgot about the Orange Ball recipe. This one is a definite keeper, and great for the summer (since it's no-bake) or the winter (citrus fruits are great then).

Orange Balls

1 box graham cracker crumbs (I crush a box of graham crackers; no need to pay more for them pre-crushed)

1 stick margarine

1 bag powdered sugar

6 ounces frozen orange juice concentrate

1 tsp vanilla

Melt the margarine. Stir in the frozen orange juice concentrate (I always stick it back in the microwave for about 20 seconds to help melt it faster). Add about 3/4 of the powdered sugar and graham crackers, as well as the vanilla. Mix well. Add more powdered sugar until dough forms (it should be moldable and not very sticky; just slightly tacky). Scoop out 1/2 tbsp balls; roll in remaining powdered sugar. Place on lined cookie sheet and chill (or let cool to room temperature). Enjoy!!!!

Days of Our Lives

Well, it's been TOOOOO long since I've posted. Since then, the job search continues, and I've picked up a couple of sidelines along the way.

I'm going to be teaching 2 classes at my LYS. The first is in September, and it's the Leaves Sweater from Crochet Me. It's going to rock! Not only do you get the pattern corrections, but also how to up-size it. The second is called "Knit to Fit" and we'll be doing a sweater vest by mathematics! It's a custom knit for each person. No pattern, just a measuring tape, pencil, paper, and a swatch! From that, we can create ANY SWEATER!!! Thanks to Sandi Wiseheart from Knitting Daily for the idea; it really works! That one will be taught in October. I'll post some pictures tomorrow.

I also have an AVON site for those who care:

If you click the picture, you'll get my site. If you register on my site, I'll email you a code for FREE SHIPPING. :) Free is always good. You can order from anywhere in the US, and possibly some other countries, but I haven't checked all that. Everyone I know is state-side. If you're overseas and want to order, that would be really cool. If Avon doesn't ship there, I'll order it for you and ship it to you (no spammers though...I'm not taking a money order for $1500 for a $200 order to Bumblebutt, Nowhereland, not even if you promise I can keep the difference).

And tomorrow...the recipe for the amazing Orange Balls!!!!! :)