Making Progress

Since I couldn't resist casting on for the baby sweater, I worked on that this weekend, and again today at lunch. It's coming right along. Actually, since it's small, it goes rather quickly, even with the pattern in it. I should be able to finish it this weekend, since we're going out of town...again. Last weekend it was to visit my dad in Augusta and spend some time with him. This weekend, it's up to my in-loves. It's nice usually when I go out of town, because I don't usually cook or clean and can spend a lot of time knitting, even in the car, provided I'm not driving. This last weekend though, I did spend quite a bit of time in the kitchen. I fixed several meals, and let my dad keep the leftovers, since it's hard to cook for one person. We ate most of the food, but he had enough of different dishes for the rest of the week. It's nice to take care of a parent sometimes like that, since they did it for so long for you.

The blanket is at a stand-still, because I feel like it's so boring. I was excited to start it, but now, it seems tedious. Maybe it's just me. I have a good 6 inches done, but I feel like I'm never going to get through with it. I guess that's why I started on the cardigan. I'll take both this weekend, and I should finish the cardigan, and maybe I'll get inspired to work on the blanket again. Hopefully I can also get some batteries (or find the rechargables) and take some pictures.

Happy Friday the 13th!

Well, I couldn't resist the urge to cast on last night, so I cast on for the baby sweater I am supposed to make for a friend who delivered a couple of weeks ago. On the bright side, I should be able to finish the hat, cardigan, booties, and blanket by the time she gets back (around Thanksgiving) and they should be big enough that her son can still wear them. I'm making them in the 6 month size, so he can grow into them. It'll stay cold for a while around here, and the baby will still be 6 months during the winter. We sometimes get a cold snap in April, so it can hopefully still be worn then.

Now, I have to plan for my own munchkin's wardrobe. I'm still on the prowl for some perfect baby patterns for a blanket, sweater, booties, hat, just about anything. I still haven't found just the right one I want yet. I'll keep searching...anyone have suggestions? I might be hitting a Borders this weekend, and I might see what I can find there. I find all kinds of cute stuff for girls, but for some reason, boys are harder to find good patterns for. Oh well...I still have a good 3 months to get everything in order, and I'm sure I can make it all in that time, with some help.

Everybody's working for the weekend...

and I'm no exception. I'm taking a half day tomorrow, and we're heading down to visit my dad. I'm hoping that hubby will drive, so I can knit on the way down. I have considered the baby blanket, and I have decided that I can and will cast on for the sweater either tonight or tomorrow. There will also be cleaning going on in Augusta. You gotta love that for the weekend...nesting instinct coming home! =0)

Organizational process

Organization always seems to be a process...never quite finished. It's like perfectionism - no matter how hard you strive for it, you always fall short, and there's always just a little more to reach that goal. Unlike perfectionism, I don't plan on driving myself or anyone else crazy. I think the nesting instinct is kicking in for me, and I'm ready to get everything done. THis next week, I'm hoping to be able to set up my craft space. That promises to be fun. If I can get a place for things, then I can slowly work on organizing the minor stuff, like patterns. There are boxes upon boxes of patterns. There are books, magazines, and lots of paper hanging about. The yarn will hopefully have its own home, and not be all over the place.

I decided to frog the Jaywalker I had almost completed. Now I have a lovely ball of Magic Stripes waiting to be re-knit. I have completed about 6 inches of the baby blanket. Just 27 inches left, right?! Then it's time to hit my baby's stuff. I have a little pocket money now from the opera I finished, and that's going to be invested in some lovely yarn for my baby. Hopefully I will find the rechargable batteries for the digital camera, and I'll be able to upload some pictures. There's so much to knit, and organize. Maybe I can teach my feet to knit and my hands to organize, or vice versa.

A new item that I think should be added to baby registeries - a computer. I would love to get a new one for all the pictures that will be taken (and trust me, this child will think they get more press space than any celebrity in this world). It's just a matter of time. If everything works out, maybe next year I can afford to get a decent one with all the right software.

Wasting Time

I had rehearsal last night for the opera, and the sucky part was that I was stuck there for at least an hour before I had to go on. The good news was it gave me knitting time. I found several others that knit in the production as well, so I was in good company. Even some of the children knit! One girl had a knitting loom that she was making a sweater on, and two others had straight needles. One of the women had just purchased some yarn for a shawl/wrap out of mostly novelty yarn, and needed some help getting it started, since she had to use a circular needle, and she's never used one before. I whipped out my Jaywalker socks, and started on them. Apparently, I'm the most experienced one in the group. No one else has attempted socks, or even gone beyond a scarf. Maybe I can encourage them to branch out and try something new...at least something beyond a simple garter stitch! There's even a little girl who wants to learn, and wants us to teach her. I'm all about the teaching. I'm taking the Hoover blanket with me next time, and hopefully I can make some real progress on that. I have to rearrange the bag I'm taking, but it should be all good.

All the knitting around me makes me want to start a new project. I'm trying to decide what to start once I finish the socks and the blanket. I still have a sweater, hat and booties to make for the woman at work. I guess I should start those afterward. I'm hoping to have it all completed by the time she gets back (in about a month or so).

Just my luck...

I started to take pictures of the afghan, socks, and various other articles to post, and I realized the batteries were dying and QUICKLY. I looked in a few places, but so little is unpacked currently, there was no way to find any replacements. Maybe some time this week I can talk my darling husband into locating at least some AA replacements for me to use until I can find the charger with the other 2 rechargable batteries.

This weekend, I think I worked a whopping 2 rows on the baby blanket, and she delivered on Saturday. If I get it done by the time she gets back, she'll still be able to use it. It's going to be slightly bigger than a regular baby blanket, so we're hoping he doesn't grow TOO fast.

In and Out

Well, there's not much going on in the knitting front, but I did pick up my Jaywalkers again. They are an easier project to transport than the baby blanket. Hopefully I'll get some pictures up soon.

I keep finding some great blogs. I love reading them, although I try to be good at work and not spend too much time reading and not working. I wish reading them was part of my job. Oh well...here's a link to the cool one I found, and the really awesome sock pattern she created. I guess maybe I'm a little behind in some areas of blogging, but sometiems I actually get ahead of the crowd. I'm sure if I spent more time devoted to it, I'd stay ahead more.

The weather's beautiful around here; fall's definitely upon us. There's the crispness in the air that makes fall spectacular, and the heat has broken. It makes you want to pick up your needles and knit all the time. Maybe I'll get more done than I think before this month is over.

I promised and forgot.

I promised pictures today, because I had found my digital camera. But, having baby brain, I forgot. I was so intent on having a night at home and spending time with my DH, I completely forgot. Well, I did remember at one point, but I think that was just before it was brownie time, and then the brownies erased all memory of pictures.

I read here that Kerrie is also pregnant, and that she's expecting in March, which is just 2 months after me (Congrats to her!). She's considering doing this pattern from Knitty as a cardigan, which made me start thinking, why not? It might work after all. I'm still waiting to hear back from Amy to see if she's thought about a pregnant issue...all things maternity and newborn related. I emailed her yesterday, so I expect to wait a good week or so before hearing back from her.

I didn't knit a single stitch yesterday, although I did feel a little guilty about it, since there's a long way to go on the blanket, and after next Friday, the lady that's due is on leave. If I knit like a mad woman during lunches and at every turn, I might get it finished.

In other news, I received a knit blanket recently. I had knit it for my grandmother, and since she passed away this year, I asked for it back. It's large and green, and very nice. It's a little holey, and if there's a fan blowing on you, you still feel it. But if there's warm air or you're just a little chilly without a breeze or the air conditioner, it works very well. I'll have to take pictures of it soon as well. I thought I had some already of it, and I might, but they're probably on the computer at home or on a disk, if I can ever find it. New pictures might be in order.

Found it!!!

I found my digital camera this weekend. I'll take some pictures of progress on the baby blanket tonight and post them tomorrow. In the meantime, you'll just have to be placated with an explanation. I've done about 4 inches on the Hoover blanket in a solid baby blue.

The new Knitty is up as well, and I have to say I'm VERY impressed. Most of the sweaters go up to a size 55" bust, and that's helpful for those of us who don't want to do the math to upsize every cute sweater we see. The only problem is that I won't be able to wear them if I make them this year, being pregnant and all. I have asked about a pregnancy issue...maybe have some tops that go up to that size as well. It never hurts to ask.

With the opera, I have to find the pair of socks I started several months ago and start taking them with me. I don't think I'll have time to work on them right now, but in a week or so, while the Maestro makes us wait through the first opera, I can sit and knit on them. I also may start on some other baby things. Socks are an easily transportable project, and don't usually take up a lot of room. The afghan takes a little more, since the ball of yarn is huge.

Still knitting...

on the blanket. I have about 3-4 inches of the center done now. This weekend is a time for memorizing words for the opera, knitting and some cooking too. There's still a LOT to be done before the baby gets here, and only half is knitting!

Crap!

I lost a post. Dang it. It was about getting stuff done on the blanket this weekend, and the hospital tour, and what I'm planning on knitting for our baby. He has to have something better than what the hospital supplies.

NEWS!!!!!

In the world of knitting, I think I finished about another inch on the blanket last night. That's encouraging.

In other news (here's the big stuff), we're having a BOY! You know what that means!!!! Knitting boy stuff...tons and TONS of it! There's blankets (big and small), sweaters, hats, booties, and all kinds of stuff that this little bundle of boyhood is going to have. Any suggestions for the first item?!

Weekend of Cleaning and Knitting...

Hopefully I can get some knitting done this weekend. I have about 2 inches of the center done for the baby blanket. I also have some cleaning and baking to do (early in the morning, since it's so hot) and hopefully I can get more than 2 more inches done. I can't believe it's taking me SOOOOO long to do this baby blanket. Of course, I haven't touched it in a few days. I've been too tired to do much of anything. I feel better though today. I'm going home and I'm going to do a few things (purging a few places around the house) before bed tonight. Hopefully that will open up the rest of the weekend for knitting. Saturday night is definitely going to be a knitting time. I love knitting while watching the British Sitcoms on public television on Saturday night. I'm excited, because according to the schedule online, they're bringing back 2 of my favorites, The Vicar of Dibley and Last of the Summer Wine. I love Dawn French. Her knitting book is awesome. =0)

Tired Progress

I'm so tired. I keep trying to push just a little, but last night I gave up and went to bed at 8:30. I have about 2 inches of the pattern completed on the blanket. I also seriously need to start reviewing and memorizing the words for the opera I'm in. I'm supposed to be memorized by Labor Day weekend.

I have a sonogram on Monday, and I'm taking a half day off work. It's in the middle of the afternoon, and it seems like a better option than trying to cram a whole day into half, and getting all stressed out before a doctor's appointment.

I posted a few comments on some lists, and got a good idea. Instead of sweaters, I could make some shawls, since I may become hot-natured in the winter, and I can still wear the shawls after the baby's born. I just need to find my Vogue knitting book, and check out some stitches. I might see about borrowing my brother's Stitchionary, and creating my own. It's always cheaper when you make it up.

Slow knitting progress

I've completed about an inch or so on the baby blanket. I don't think it's going to get done for the shower, but I'll keep working on it, and maybe before she leaves on the 22nd of September it'll be done with the hat, sweater and booties. Keep your fingers crossed.

I saw a great sweater online at www.avenue.com in a lovely shade of green. It's a wool/acrylic blend, and it made me want to knit up a storm! It would actually be a great pregnancy sweater, since it's open in the front, like a jacket but without a tie. I don't know where the yarn would come from, but it might just show up sometime. I have lots of yarn to knit with, but new projects are so tempting!!!! I must get through the baby stuff first, and do all kinds of baby stuff for our little one on the way, and then I can look at new stuff. Once I know what we're having (boy or girl), there might be a little more motivation to knit for the little tyke. Right now, it's sort of an amorphous blob. I'd like to think we're having a boy, but there are times when I think we're having a girl. Either way, the child will be loved and wrapped constantly in handmade items, but I want to know!!!!

Another post?!

I know, crazy, isn't it?! A second post this week. Well, I'm in week 17 of pregnancy, and I have an ultrasound on the 21st for growth. I think my doctor was a little concerned because I lost 4 pounds in a month, for a net gain of 1 pound so far. I'm not trying to lose weight. I swear I'm not. I'm eating healthier for the baby, and more frequently, because I'm hungry. I'm also trying to unpack, so I'm a little more active on the weekends. I could also be a little dehydrated, since I know I haven't been drinking as much water as I should.

I finally have the bottom border completed on the blanket, and I completed the set-up row for the Hoover blanket. I'm going to use tomorrow to knit a lot on it, and hopefully it'll be done for the woman's shower at work on the 21st. Maybe, but don't hold your breath. The sofa has gotten extremely uncomfortable for long periods of time to me, and I don't have a comfy chair to sit in. If someone has a nice chair and sofa set in the Atlanta area they'd like to dispose of, please post a comment and I'll contact you! I've been trying to get a new sofa for a while, and haven't found one yet that's in our price range (free is about what we can afford).

Bits and Pieces

Well, I did start on that baby blanket for a woman at work. It's about 2 inches so far, and she's due in late September! We moved though, and I'm working slowly but surely to get things settled.

Being pregnant takes a lot out of you, but other than being tired, I really can't complain too much! I'm currently at about 4 months, so I have some time to get the room ready for the baby to share with the craft stuff! =0) Actually, I just went to the doctor yesterday and I lost 4 pounds! That's good news to me, because I'm eating healthier, more frequently, and moving more, which means it's a good weight loss, and not going to hurt the baby. I'm also drinking lots of water and getting lots of rest.

Oh, and here's more good news! I auditioned for the Atlanta Opera Chorus and was accepted! I'm performing with them this fall in Carmina Burana! It's a lot of fun for me, and it works great with my schedule, since all the rehearsals are on nights on weekends. It isn't too stressful right now, since we meet about twice a week, but it's more activity and a good workout for all those lower ab muscles that will be used once it's time for the baby to arrive!

I still have a pair of socks to finish, and two sweaters to make for myself. I guess I should really get cracking on them, otherwise they won't be done in time. I first have to finish the blanket though. I'm trying to work it in with rehearsals, unpacking, and rest.

Quick Update

Here's a quick update as to what's been going on, and why I haven't been around much lately. We're moving on Saturday, so packing has been prevalent. The 4th of July brought a trip out of town to visit family (which was nice) and work's been kind of crazy with auditors flitting about like hummingbirds. Pregnancy's going great...I haven't been sick (other than normal allergy issues which are always expected). Other than that, life's just been getting in the way. I did start on the first of the baby gifts...a blanket. I think I've done about 3-4 rows. I haven't gotten very far, but after we move it should get a little further along. After I find out if we're having a boy or a girl (although I'd take either, I'd kind of like to have a boy first), I'm sure the needles will be flying. Maybe in a couple of weeks I can post some pictures. =0)

More News

Well, I haven't knit anything, and I HAVE to get started on baby things. There are lots of blankets, booties, hats, sweaters, and toys to knit up. I've been a lazy bum. I also have 3 maternity sweaters to knit for myself (since I'll be big-pregnant in the winter). I haven't started on those either.

We received some bad news not long after we had the good news. My grandmother passed away on the 2nd, and her funeral was last Tuesday. It was sad because we'll miss her, but it was also happy because she was a terrific Christian lady who really lived her faith and we know we'll see her again in heaven. In any event, the sonogram pictures went to my dad, who's now living at her house since he's an only child and he has ownership of everything. The upside to this is that with the investments my grandmother had, the baby will be well taken care of in the furniture department.

I'm going to try and start something this weekend, if I'm not too tired. I've been sleeping more this week and I think I might actually have the energy to do something other than lie around the house on Saturday.

Here's the good news!

I'm pregnant! We weren't trying, but we're being blessed anyway! I'm about 6 weeks along, so that puts me due in late January. I know, I keep getting the advice that I shouldn't tell too many people, just in case. Well, I have a big mouth. If something happens, I will let everyone know. But I had to share the good news!

Pictures!

I forgot I brought the camera with me yesterday, but realized I had it today, so here are these pictures. First, of my socks from my sockapaloooza pal:

Sorry it's not the best picture in the world, but they definitely look like the desert. They are lovely shades of teal, orange, rust, and burgundy, all muted. They are also very warm and comfy. Trust me, after a hard day, even when all you've done is sit on your bum, it's nice to have socks like these around your toes!






Next are the elephants I've done:

The red one was for a lady at work, and it's reminescent of her sorority. Their colors are red and white, and their mascot was an elephant. I also got paid $20 for this one (gotta love it when you get paid for fun!).

This pink elephant goes to my friend Kristen, who received the original grey elephant a few months back. She loved the standard elephant for her son, and decided it would be a great joke for her daughter to have a pink one. First of all, because her daughter's favorite color is pink (as much of a favorite as a two-year old can have) and secondly, because of the whole pink elephant/Dumbo/drunk thing. Go figure.

More good news coming...I promise. I'll try and post something on Saturday, after the family leaves. =0)

Good news

So, there is good news afoot. I know that there probably aren't THAT many people who read this, and yet I am SOOOO tempted to tell. I really shouldn't though, not until after Saturday. Hopefully when I get home today, I'll have enough energy to take some pics and tomorrow I can post them. We will be moving in about 2 months, which is encouraging, but we don't know where yet. Yesterday, my husband rescued a giant snapping turtle from the middle of the road. He put him back towards the creek in our neighborhood. I was proud.

In other news, there is no knitting currently, but there is some crocheting going on. I'm working on 2 more elephants, one in pink and one in red. The red one is for a woman at work (who's willing to pay-the red elephant is a mascot from her sorority) and the pink one is for a friend of mine. She thinks it'll be funny to have a pink elephant around her children. I love her like a sister, so of course she gets one.

I do have knitting to do; there is a baby blanket, sweater, booties and hat that must be accomplished by the shower in August. I'm going to go with this pattern for the blanket. I haven't decided yet for the sweater, booties and hat yet. I might just make it up as I go along. I think they'll be plain, since it's for a boy, and it's not my own child so I won't know his personality. I also think I'll work them in green, for something different. The blanket will be in blue. Everyone buys blue stuff for boys, so having something other than blue might be nice.

It seems like it's been forever.

Not since I last posted, but the past week seems like it took forever to get through. I have another week before I get a lovely 5 day weekend. I feel like there's so much to do, and I just have no energy to do anything. Maybe we'll get some answers next week when I head to the doctor. We're changing doctors and the first appointment with the new one should prove to be enlightening. The appointment is on Wednesday the 24th, and when I know more, I'll post more. But for now, it's a secret. =0)

Yay! I'm loved!

After a REALLY long day at work (we're talking 13 hours people), I got a lovely surprise when I got home. I found a package in the mail. It was my socks from a lovely lady in Arizona. I will post more later, after I've had time to take pictures. Thanks Sock Pal!

Babysitting

I'm babysitting Friday night for a friend. That should be fun. I love her kids. The little girl is 2, and her baby brother is about 3 months. She insists on seeing MI:III on opening night, so they're dropping them off at our place while they go to the theater just down the road from us. It makes it convenient. I might be able to work on the elephants while they're there.

Right now, I'm so tired. I'm too tired to even knit. I want to curl up and take a nap. I think adults should have naptime too. Anyone want to start a piece of legislation for it?

Gone!

I just got back from the post office. It was sent on time. How's that?! It's not everything I would have liked for it to be, but it's all the necessary items. I would have preferred to have picked up little things for my sockapalOOOza pal, and sent all of them as well. Oh well, who's to say I can't find little things now and send to her? I can always send more; I just couldn't send less. I also included a nice card and a letter. It's rare these days to send letters anymore; people just email. I miss handwritten letters.

I guess it's time for the next knitting project...what shall it be? Perhaps I'll post a poll and see what others think. I have a pair of Cigar gloves, a purple sweater, a mohair/wool sweater, baby items, and at least 2 crocheted elephants to do. I'm thinking I'm going to start on the baby things and elephants. I'm going to do one red and white elephant for a lady at work, and a pink and white elephant for my friend and her little girl. I think I'll just do two, one for each...I have plenty of yarn for it. I also found this pattern yesterday, and had to print it for more than the obvious reason. That's another story for another day...maybe tomorrow's storytime. =0)

Going, Going...

I blocked the socks last night. They're still a little damp, but by this afternoon when I go to the post office, they should be completely dry. They are lovely...unfortunately, I didn't take a picture of them last night, or this morning and I don't have my camera with me. You'll just have to wait to see them when my secret pal gets them!

It's finished!!!

Woot! I'm done...all but blocking and weaving in ends. I love it! Check them out:

Please forgive the fuzziness of the pictures, but at least I took them, and posted them!

The camera strap got in the shot too. I guess it was tired of always being behind the camera and wanted to be in front for once. Oh well. The socks match for the most part; something weird happened around the heel and caused the lighter pink and yellow stripe sections to be smaller. I have no idea what that is all about, but they're done! Woot! I have the address to send them, and they'll be in the mail on Tuesday! Woohoo!

Almost...

I'm almost where I wanted to be today on the second sock. I started on the heel last night. Actually, I had to frog back to where the heel started and start it. I got so caught up in watching Buffy and knitting that I passed the start of the sock. I just kept going, so I had to frog it back to where the heel needed to start, and then I started on it. I got maybe 4-5 rows in, so hopefully it'll be done today, and tomorrow I can start on the leg part.

I'm enjoying sock knitting...it's fairly quick (depending on the size needles you use), portable, and once you have the pattern down, easy. The hard part is doing your nails and knitting. =0)

Pictures!!!!

Woot! Ok, so I'm a few days late. It's the story of my life. Here's the second sock:



Here's the second and first together...I think they're lining up nicely.

Here's a shot of the first sock all on its own. It's lovely in its own right.

Hopefully I can balance knitting and working out and working around the apartment (chores). I'm counting housework as exercise...doesn't everybody?!

One down...

and one to go! I finished the first sock...I have about 2 weeks to finish the second. I'm going to spend as much time as possible on it, and have it ready by May 2nd. I have some leftover yarn, and I have a lovely idea for it (and to send it to my sock pal), but the sock comes first! I almost have the toe part done on the second sock. Tonight after church I'll take pictures and post them. Here's to hoping it all gets done in plenty of time!

Busy, busy.

I've been SO busy, and at times I've forgotten to post. The times when I haven't forgotten, I didn't have time. Isn't that always the way?!

For my Sockapaloooza update (yes, I'm still working on it, I promise!) I have one sock almost completed. I need to finish it (hopefully tonight while watching TV), and this week I should be able to start on the second one. Now it's a race against time to finish in time. Does anyone remember what the date is to send them off? I'm shooting for the second of May, but I think it's actually just the first weekend. I could be wrong, and I will check my original email again for the actual date.

Life has been turning in its kaleidoscope, making pretty colors and patterns, but not leaving much the same. There is so much to be done! I have to get started! I keep procrastinating and I procrastinate stopping! =0) Soon, I will stop. Today I will stop.

It's been too long.

I can't believe I haven't posted anything since last Friday. I swear I'll do better. I always say that. I have come SOOOO close to finishing the first sock for my SockapalOOOza pal. I've done the foot and am currently working on the leg part (it's a toe-up pattern). It looks lovely. I'll have to take some pictures (tonight!) and get them uploaded. I'm such a slacker.

However, I did finally get some pictures done last night of myself. It's for a press packet to send to Finland for a band. Long story short, I doubt I'll get it, but I'm sticking it out there anyway. The worst they can do is tell me no, and I don't have to pick up everything and move to Finland (which would have to wait until the end of summer anyway because of darling Hubby finishing his degree - he's so close!). I figure I have nothing to lose but time and energy putting this packet together and sending it off. The cash aspect is minor. It's like American Idol, but harder, since it's not a personal interview (to start with). I guess I should look at getting my passport, just in case, huh?

Ack!

I just wrote down all the projects that I am accumulating...I'm gathering at least 4 per month, but I'm not turning them out quite that fast. Here's my list from January through March:
January:

• Panta (headband)-completed
• Socks (first pair-wild stripes)-completed
• Elephant (for a friend's son)-completed
• Purple sweater
• Baby blanket (see above elephant)

February:

• SockapalOOOza socks
• Jaywalker socks
• Mohair sweater (at least I ordered the other yarn to go with this one...)
• Baby sweater (see above blanket and elephant)

March:

• Elephant (for woman at work in soroity colors)
• Cigar gloves (second pair for my brother)
• Psychotic tomatoes
• Cheez-It

I also can't forget that there's a woman at work who's pregnant, and I promised her a blanket, sweater, hat and booties for her little one. Fortunately, she's not due until late September. Ok, it's official...no one else can get pregnant or request anything from me! The request line is closed! Maybe I can get some serious knitting and crocheting done between now and the summer. I just will have to start skipping meals and showers, knitting at work, and not clean anything. Sure...this can work...maybe I won't skip the showers.

Tuesday

Well, here it is, Tuesday. I think I found the pattern I'm going to use for my Sockapaloooza pal. I think I'm going to go with this one. I like the idea of the lace and sock combined. I think I'm going to set aside all my other projects and start on all the ones for others right now. I have to start (and finish) another pair of Cigar gloves for my brother, the Sockapaloooza socks need to get started, and then there's that crocheted elephant for the woman at work who's going to actually pay me $20 for it. I'm just trying to decide what to get started on first. Nothing has been started for any of these, and my sweater keeps calling my name. Both sweaters do. They're lonely. My Jaywalker socks are also calling my name. Hmmm...ok...I need a plan. If I do one Sockapalooza sock, then a Cigar glove, then the elephant, and then another sock and the other glove, that should last me for a good 5 weeks. Each one should (in theory) only take a week. So, that puts me into April. If I'm really slick, I might be able to crank out my purple sweater by Easter. I'm not counting on it, and I wouldn't put money on it, but it's possible. I'll just have to focus more on knitting in the evenings. So, here's to the first Sockapaloooza sock!

Wonderful Weekend

I had a fan-tabulous weekend! I was treated to a class at a LYS with Annie Modesitt! She is a fabulous teacher, and I would highly recommend her classes to anyone. I got all inspired again to knit and to increase my knitting knowledge and experience. She has a terrific sense of humor, and is such a warm and wonderful person!

I still have to find a pattern that will do the sock yarn justice for my Sockapaloooza pal. While I'm scouring the 'net, I'm continuing to knit on the purple sweater and my Jaywalker socks.

In good news, I was offered MONEY for an elephant. It's a special order (she wants it red and white), but it's $20 for me! Woot!

More later...I promise!

The terrible, horrible, no good, very bad blogger

That would be me. I keep thinking I'm going to have time to post something here, and I just don't make the time. Anyway, I found some more pictures, and I thought I'd share.

This is the elusive purple sweater I keep talking about. I don't know how much you can tell from the picture, but it was the Soft Focus pattern from Big Knits, whose co-author Dawn French is one of my favorite British actresses.

This afghan is crocheted, and it's a pattern that apparently Coats and Clark don't print anymore. It went out of print almost as fast as it was in print. My mother-in-law picked the pattern for me, and I made this afghan for my mom's parents for Christmas last year (2005).

As for the podcasts, I have downloaded several. The ones currently on my iPod are About Time, KnitCast, Cast On, Knitting News Cast, For the Love of Fiber, KnitWit, Musings of a peaceful knitter, Pointy Sticks, Secret Knitting, and the Mosh Knit. I know, it sounds like a lot, and I guess maybe it is. I've only really listened to KnitCast, because I just found all the others.

Woot! Again!

Well, I finished filing my taxes, later than I wanted, but still before the deadline. We get a nice chunk of change back. I'm also downloading stuff on to my iPod (brand new, with video capability) and waiting for 24 to start. The pictures I wanted to download are taking too long, so I'll take them to work with me and upload them tomorrow. I think it's due to the iPod downloading so much stuff. Oh well...podcasts rock!

Sockapaloooza update and other schtuff

Well, I finally received the order from Knitpicks on Friday. The colors are beautiful. Now I just have to find a pattern for my sock pal that will show off the beauty of the yarn. I also ordered some of the Wool of the Andes for a sweater. You remember the mohair and wool sweater I wanted to create? I now have the wool, and the mohair. I resisted temptation this weekend to cast on yet another sweater and try to finish the two things that are currently on the needles. If I don't resist, I'll have 10 projects going, and I won't be making any progress on any of them.

I did cast on for my purple sweater, and I found pictures proving that at one point, I did finish the sweater. I don't have any of me wearing it, but I'm working on a different style, and providing that I finish it timely, I'll do pictures of that on. I'm still plugging away on the Jaywalkers, and maybe I'll upload some pictures of those tonight as well as the start of the new sweater.

I have pictures to post, but I didn't bring them to work with me. Fortunately for you, ;) I have lots to download on my new iPod tonight, and I can post while I'm downloading. I have several podcasts that I want, and I just have to download them onto the iPod and listen to my heart's content. I also need to copy some CDs on it, and I figure that will last me a good long while with 30 GB. Of course, I'll probably fill it up before I realize it.

Time flies...

when you're really not that busy! Man, I feel like it's been ages. Maybe it has been. There are still more baby reports coming in...no worries for me...yet. As much as I'd love to have a little one, I know that all the work I do for others will never be reciprocated. I don't do it for that, obviously, otherwise I wouldn't do it at all. It just saddens me that there are so few people that I know that are crafters. I need to expand my friendship circle, and get to know some knitters. =0) They know what those hand-made gifts mean, and I think only someone who does it can TRULY appreciate the time and love it takes.

I ordered sock yarn on Saturday for my Sockapaloooza pal. I'm hoping to be able to be pattern searching later this week, and see what the yarn says to me. I always obey the yarn. It's easier that way. =0)

Pictures should be coming later this week as well. I did finally get those pictures from Wal-Mart, and only one roll really came out. The other was old and faded. I think I was in middle school when I shot that roll. Aahh...those were the days. I could go home from school, do homework, get a snack and go outside and play. Having summers off was the best.

More baby presents!!!!

And no, it's not for me (I'm not pregnant). Well, there's a friend at work who just told us this morning that she's expecting. You know what that means!!!! More baby knitting! Her mom crochets, so I'm the one to knit her baby up a storm! I opened my big mouth and promised a layette set...you know, hat, sweater, booties, and blankie. Good thing I decided I wanted to do the Hoover blanket from Knitty.com (the pattern is here). Now I'll just find a sweater, hat and bootie pattern that I like. I don't expect to out-compete Grandma; just spoil the kid. There's nothing wrong with spoiling a child...as long as it's not yours...that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

More toys might follow as well...I have a whole book of knitted toys, and I might just have to pull that out and start knitting up a toy storm. Of course, I should probably finish the other projects I've started. I'm sure my friend would like for her son to get his blanket and sweater BEFORE he's too old to enjoy them (he's about 3 weeks now, and if I hurry, he'll have his blanket in another week, and maybe 2 for his sweater).

I AM going to get those pictures this weekend that I dropped off at Wal-Mart about 3 weeks ago. I SWEAR. I have it on my list. I'm going tomorrow, some time. I promise...no really.

It's been so long...

I can't believe I haven't posted again this week! How horrible is that?! In any event, the Jaywalker is coming along nicely. I'm making them a little smaller than I made the last pair, and I'm reading the directions VERY CAREFULLY. I have found that to be my biggest problem...I try to do too much too soon without the directions. Maybe I can take pictures tonight and post them.

Cedric is finally going to his new home tonight! The afghan and sweater will be following soon, but for now, it's just Cedric the elephant. I'm excited to see my friend's little boy. I'm sure he's absolutely adorable. Perhaps I should grab the camera and take some pictures to post of him and his sister (I'll have to ask mom first about the posting).

I'm wearing my first pair of socks today. I love these things. They're warm, comfy, and all around great. I never have to worry about my feet being cold.

I should be ordering some more sock yarn tomorrow...if all goes well. I need to get cracking on my Sockapaloooza pal's gift!

Decisions, decisions...

As you can sort of tell from this picture (sorry about the fuzziness), these are the two colors I was thinking of combining together for a sweater. The mauve on the left is mohair, and the brown on the right is Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Maple Syrup. They look like a better color combination in reality...when they're not all out of focus. I just haven't decided if I should do the bottom out of the brown and the top out of the mohair, or combine them. I guess another swatch is needed.

Here come some pics of first knitting projects...mostly scarves...
This was my first knitting attempt EVER...I would not recommend chenille to beginners.

This scarf was my second knitting adventure. I finished the first one in Utah, and had to go get more yarn! I grabbed a skein of Jiffy Thick & Quick from a local JoAnn's, and decided to do the scarf pattern that was on the package.

This scarf was for my brother. He saw the pattern on Knitty, and wanted one to go with his leather jacket. He thought it would be fun to dress like Mick Jagger sometimes. Of course, my brother is a LOT better looking than Mick Jagger (IMHO).

This last picture is one of the afghan I knitted for my grandmother (how backwards is that?!), and she LOVES it. She wraps up in it every night and watches TV. You gotta love making something that they use.


And once again, my photo taking skills are at their best in this shot. Here's the Debbie Bliss that I wanted to make a sweater out of, and then realized the style I liked wouldn't look that great on me. So, now it's gone back into the stash. I'm trying to decide if I should leave it there for a while, or put it to good use. Any ideas?

So much knitting...so little time...back to the needles!

We Are the Champions, My Friends...

I am victorious! I have finally completed BOTH socks! Woot!

Are you ready for more pictures? Here's one to prove that yes, I WILL wear them.

Please ignore the shoes under the bed, and the fact that a box spring is my backdrop. Here's one more shot...

How exciting! Tomorrow (if I remember) there are some other things that I will post, and maybe I'll drop by Wal-Mart and pick up my two rolls of film. One's so old, I don't even remember what is on it. I'm not even sure if there ARE pictures on it. It was only 12 exposures, and it went in one of those REALLY old cameras...the ones that were really flat. Who knows what will be on it...with me, there's no telling, but I'm hoping that they put the pictures on a CD so that I can upload them easily. If not, we'll have to do it the old fashioned way, with the scanner. Fortunately, the CD burner is in the computer with the scanner, so that should make it easier.

I have another pair of socks to make for me, and I'm going to try doing the Jaywalker socks. I know, it's one of those cyber-knitting world crazes, like the Clapotis, but hey, I didn't join in that one, so I'm joining in where I can. See? I CAN play well with others...sometimes. =0)

Sock update...the originals

Well, here are the pictures I promised! (I know I'm a day late, but I'm a dollar short too!)

Isn't he adorable? His name is Cedric, and he's crocheted (I know...this is a knitting blog, but sometimes the hands need a break). There's more...

This is the first FO of the new year:

It's Panta...just a cool headband that the pattern was floating around on the 'net for.

Check it out!!!! It's almost done! I had some good knitting time in the car on the way home yesterday, and it went really fast. I'm just hoping there'll be enough left to finish! It's a couple of rows different, but they're close enough to match for me! I'm so excited.

Now, as for the Sockapaloooza, I was searching online for sock patterns, and of course, Knitty was one of the first places I checked. I like their patterns...they're usually innovative and a great knit. But, I didn't quite find what I was looking for; at least I don't think I did. I might need to play around with some patterns first.

There was a funeral today for a man who worked at my company, and it got me thinking about a pattern for something like that. I don't know that I'm going to do funeral socks, but something somber may spring forth from my brain. It might be a sweater or a scarf or something. I never met him, but there was a definite air of sadness lingering around the office. It makes you ponder the meaning of life, and specifically, the meaning of your life. It also makes you wonder what your funeral will be like. Maybe I'll create something and request that people wear something like it to my funeral. I can do that, right? Perhaps he just needs to have a tribute done.

Once I decide on a pattern for my secret sock pal, I'll have to see what needs to be done about ordering some yarn. The colorways from Knit Picks are beautiful, and most definitely reasonably priced.

Heel trouble

Argh...I had problems with the heel on the second sock, but I think I got it fixed. The biggest problem was there was an extra stitch! I was able to figure out that it came from the needle at the last stitch getting caught on the one below it, so there were two stitches from the same column of stitches. I hate it when that happens. In any case, I'm hoping to have good knitting time this weekend, since we're headed to visit my in-laws. There's not much to do up there, except read and knit.

Here's funny for you...my hubby has just finished the catalog of our books...and this weekend, his mom is giving us more. We're also probably going to spend some time with a friend of his.

I still have to get the pictures from Wal-Mart, and take pictures of the cute elephant. The second needs pictures too. Hopefully I can take all the necessary pictures this weekend, and if we get home in time, I can post them on Sunday. We should be back in time...we have to be home for the Superbowl. That is more good knitting time. =0)

Waiting on Wal-Mart

I'm waiting on Wal-Mart for my pictures. Their one hour photo isn't exactly one hour...more like 4 hours. There was also a roll I had to send off, so I'm waiting to get it back as well. The elephant for my friend's lovely son is almost done...he just needs a trunk. There will be pictures.

Oh, good news! First, our building doesn't have to re-piped after all. That means no moving the whole apartment upside down for 3 days. Second, hubby's power supply finally arrived. Here's a side note: DON'T use UPS to send packages. They suck. Long story short- hubby had to go to the distribution center to get it and waited for 2 hours. They never came by our place. Hopefully, pictures can go up at home instead of work now. I haven't ordered a new computer yet. I should, but I'm waiting. On what, I'm not sure, other than money.

Another week down...

Man! What a week. I went from being not busy at all to pretty busy at work, and here I am at not very busy at all again. I found out Tuesday night, after I posted, that a friend of mine was induced yesterday (Thursday). You know what that means! Socks go on the back burner, and baby stuff comes to the front! I'm working on an adorable elephant for her son, and he'll get a sweater and afghan like his sister did too. I have to get the yarn for his afghan, but I have the yarn for everything else. I usually crochet baby items for friends, and knit for myself and family. I don't know that I've ever knit anything for anyone else. Wait...I have...Cigar gloves for my brother and an afghan for my grandmother. Whatever I make I usually do give away to family or friends. I have found that it's rare a friend who truly appreciates the handmade items a crafter can provide. They're not usually that expensive (depending on the yarn of course) and they take more time than anything. People don't appreciate time like they used to. If it doesn't come from a store, they don't really understand it.

Someone asked about the $250 computer...try www.tigerdirect.com. It's good to know people in the IT world who shop frequently for new stuff, or refurbished stuff.

I have pictures to take to Wal-Mart this weekend...maybe I'll be able to post some of them!

As promised...

More pictures!!!!

Here's the finished sock...I'm not happy with the toe grafting, but I'm going to leave it and do the second one the same way. Why, you ask, would someone who is a perfectionist leave something they don't like? Well, one, I'm tired of messing with this sock, particularly the toe part (I had to graft that sucker 3 times!) and two, I've already started on the second one...see?

That was this morning's progress...there's about another half inch to three-quarters added, since I worked on it during lunch. My goal is to finish it this week...I would like to be working on it through Saturday, and then finish it and start on another project. And I have oh, so many! I'm going to start on my purple sweater...the one I completed and then took out. I didn't take any pictures of it, but I can assure you I will this time! I'm trying to complete one project a month, give or take. January's project is socks; February's will be that sweater, and I also have a baby blanket to do in February. If the sweater goes into March, that's ok. I should still be able to finish it before the weather heats up too much to wear it (it's acrylic and it gets uber hot). I put all the projects on my Palm Pilot (I'm being very digital these days - go figure) and I have them through May, I believe. There might be several more pairs of socks done this year. I have a skein of Magic Stripes that needs knitting, and oh! There's also a pair of kid socks in my future! I bought a one skein-er at a LYS, and thought I'd do anklet socks with it! I hope there's enough. If not, I might do something funky with it, but what I haven't decided. I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

Well, I should go clean now...besides, this computer's uber slow. I found a great one for $250; I just don't have $250 right now. Someone want to give me $250 for a new computer?! I'll be more than happy to take your money! =0) Just kidding! In a couple of months (or sooner I hope) I'll be able to order it. It just takes some time (and not traveling). I don't think people realize how much money it takes to travel around here. Gas is so expensive, and so is food. Oh well...hopefully another progress report tomorrow (with pictures)!

One down...

and one to go! I completed the first sock this afternoon during lunch. I was hoping to finish it over the weekend, but found it was too long, so I had to do some reconstructive surgery on it. When I tried to put the stitches back on the US3 needles, it didn't want to go. Since I was in Birmingham visiting friends, I had to wait to come home and get my US2's. The stitches went on easily today, and I used grafting to sew up the toes. I don't think I like it, but it was a good beginning for me. The grafting takes a lot of concentration though...NEVER attempt grafting while watching a movie you haven't seen before. You lose your place a lot.

Someone asked what yarn I was using for my socks...it's Fortissima Colori Socka Color. I think it's in color # 9074, and to be perfectly honest, I wouldn't have chosen that color for myself (a secret pal sent it to me) but I LOVE it. The more I see it, the better I like it. I have found that when other people choose things for me, they hardly ever pick out something that I would (sometimes I'm just too practical) and I usually love it. The yarn is 75% wool, and 25% polyamide (whatever that is). I think they'll be lovely and warm.

I'm hoping to post some pictures tomorrow; long story short, I have to be careful what I do at work now, and so I'll have to take pictures at home, load them on the computer at work (since this one won't handle it, I think) and then email them to myself, check email at home, and post from here. It'll only be until I get a new computer (that's in the works...I found a good deal and just need to order it).

I found it!!!!

I found the digital camera on Wednesday night...yay me! It was hiding in a bag that was in a bag in my closet (I have weird ways of carrying things and putting things away sometimes). But, I have this:

This is my first sock attempt ever! Woot! But wait, there's more...

And here's the other skein for the second sock by itself....

I found that the second skein starts differently, so I'm waiting to finish this first one to see how much is left over. The good news is, the pictures are what the sock looked like Wednesday night...I started the toe shaping last night, so I can definitely have the first one done by tonight (since I have a 3 hour road trip ahead of me, and I think I can catch enough daylight to finish it). If I can borrow a computer at our friends' house, I might upload more pics there of the finished sock! Woot! I'm all kinds of excited. I'm even thinking of joining a Sockapoloooza! Woot! =0)

Making progress...

on socks at least. I have about half the foot done on the first one. I spent two hours watching American Idol and knitting. Tonight I'm tearing apart the apartment looking for our digital camera. My hubby is convinced that it's there...I'm not so sure. However, I will scavange the whole place tonight. I'm really stressing over this whole camera thing. I hope and pray that it will turn up.

As for the socks, they are going well. Last night I had to tink them a little...I found some places where I didn't quite catch all the yarn and there was a little snag. I took that stitch off the needles (making sure the other stitches didn't fall off!) and removed all the stitches down to where it wasn't completely caught. Then I took a crochet hook and put the stitches back up the rows. I'm running to the store at lunch, so I'll pick up a disposable camera, in case I can't find the digital one tonight, and take pictures. I should be able to get them developed over the weekend, and I can post some pictures on Monday.

Failing miserably

But at least I tried. I was trying to get the buttons to appear for Southern Bloggers and for Knitting Blogs, but I can't get the code right. If anyone knows how, and would care to share their HTML wisdom with me, I would greatly appreciate it. If not, then I'm bound to what I can scavenge from the net and various and sundry books. Until then, it'll just have to be as is. Maybe this weekend I can pry some HTML knowledge out of one of our friends.

I'm still working on the socks, and not making a whole lot of progress. By this weekend, I would love to finish the first sock, and maybe find the digital camera that has been lost in the sea of holidays and post a picture. Yet one more promise of pictures...one that is close to being fulfilled, but something always manages to go awry. IF I find the camera, pictures WILL go up! If I can't, then I'll pull out an old school camera and take pictures...soon.

Playing around

I'm not sure if this will work, but I'll give it a whirl. I'm trying to fix oh so many things here, and if it fails miserably, well, at least I tried.

Problems solved...almost

Here were the problems I was facing:

1. Large quantity of mohair (in a mauvy color); had originally been knit into a sweater, but was itchy and required another top underneath (it was hot enough on it's own, not to mention the shedding).

2. Bag of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino; had been bought for a wide neck sweater; however, it was discovered that this style didn't work well for me.

3. 3 skeins of eyelash yarn

4. 3 more skeins of mohair (cream and peach varigated)

Here are the solutions I have come up with:

1. New sweater, combining with lovely shade of brown wool (Wool of the Andes in Maple Syrup from Knit Picks). Possible Grecian Plait pattern for mohair; or combine yarns for entire sweater. Haven't completed all the details yet.

2. Since I doubt I can get the same dye lot in the same color, I decided to mix it with some other colors, and make an argyle sweater. I think with color 601 from Debbie Bliss, I can either go with spring colors or fall colors. I was first thinking about using Asparagus, Honey, and Petal from Knit Picks Merino Style to go with it, but now I'm thinking perhaps Moss, Butternut and Maple Leaf.

3. I still have no idea what to do with these 3 skeins. I have thought about combining them as well with something else, but what I have no idea.

4. I was originally going to make some Moebius scarves with them, but I've been considering combining them with something else as well.

I guess it looks like an advertisement for Knit Picks around here, doesn't it?! I guess since I'm on a budget, I'd like to get good quality at a good price. As nice as it would be to afford more expensive brands, I just don't have the budget for it. I figure I should get the biggest bang for my buck, and most other yarn suppliers just aren't that great of a deal. I know Knit Picks' quality is good (at least what I've seen and used) and they are cheap. They allow me to be a yarn snob without the budget. =0) Score one for the champagne tastes on a beer budget.

If anyone has any suggestions at all for anything, please leave a comment! I can always use an opinion!

Friday the 13th

Most people are superstitious when it comes to a Friday that's the 13th. I say, bring it on. Granted, I'm saying that as I have to constantly move my neck that's sore and stiff from knitting on the couch while watching the tube. At least that's what I think it's from.

I decided not to knit last night, since after cleaning the kitchen my neck started cramping. Of course, had it not hurt so terribly bad I probably could have convinced myself to knit anyway, as it would HELP my neck (there's a sucker born every minute, and it's sad when you consider yourself one). It's no worse than it was yesterday, but no better either. I can keep moving it and stretching it, and that makes it a little better. It's when I stop moving it that it gets stiff and really hurts when I try to move it. I'm sure people at work think I'm suffering from some weird affliction since I'm typing and wobbling my head around.

I'm still a little upset about my sock. I hate that I had to frog almost 4 inches worth of good quality work. But, maybe I can work on it some during lunch. I know, with a stiff neck? Sure, why not? It'll help it. =0)

Sock Issues

I thought I was almost done with sock number 1, only to discover after a stitch count that I hadn't decreased enough. Perfectionism set in (it is after all my first pair...they should be good, especially since they're one of the few projects for myself) and I took out about 4 inches worth! I did read my pattern and realized where I went wrong, and got ahead of myself. I had about 6 stitches too many, and I can fix that in another 6 rows. Maybe I'll finish this sock and the next one before March, but I wouldn't count on it. I do'nt know why it seems that I'm so slow with these. The Cigar gloves I knit for my brother seemed to go faster. Of course, I also worked longer on them in a sitting I think. I did spend a good bit of time knitting on the sock on Saturday. I think I'm going to sit down and read a little tonight, and then get cracking on the sock. I'm reading one of my Christmas gifts:

I love his work. I also received Son of a Witch, by Gregory Maguire. I need to finish Wicked before starting that though. I'm massively behind where I'd like to be in reading and in knitting, but I'll catch up. My goal this year is to finish stuff I've started. If I can just finish things (like a sock and a book) then I'll make progress and be moving forward. I guess that's really my goal...to move forward. I could say I'd like to lose weight, knit more, read more, blog more, but what it really all comes down to is moving forward.

I'm already moving forward by finishing this book (a week or so ago):

I love the series Outlander. There are lots of books to read at home, and being a bibliophile means there will always be another purchase. Of course, since my hubby is a bibliophile as well, we have a HUGE library. And it continues to grow. Hubby was working on the card catalog (not through the Dewey Decimal system, just by author) and it has expanded to three boxes, and it looks like we need another one.

I taught my brother to knit late last year (in October I think) and he's doing well. He's bought some really nice yarn (much nicer than what's in my stash) and some really nice knitting accessories, like this. It must be nice...but I have a hubby to support. In any case, he wants to start on some sweaters and socks this year, one of which being a cardigan from My Fair Lady. In case you haven't seen the movie (what's wrong with you?!), rent it and it's the cardigan Higgins wears after Eliza leaves. It's a camel color, and there's no band at the bottom. My brother has specifically bought the movie for this purpose...to deconstruct the sweater and replicate it with my help. Being the wonderful brother that he is, and having few financial responsibilities, he paid for my attendance to a class in March with...Annie Modesitt! It's very exciting, since I made the Backyard Leaves scarf from Scarf Style that was designed by her.

More good news...my computer is now connected to the internet at home! Woot! Maybe I can find a port on the back and connect my digital camera up, and then take pictures! That would definitely be exciting. Now, where did I put that camera?

Issues with set-up

I am having a few issues with some of my settings. I need to find the right links for the icons for Southern Knit Bloggers and for Knitting Blogs. For some reason, the links in the code don't work. Go figure. That requires MUCH more Html code than I know...which is none. I guess I should mess with it more and see what happens, but I'm at work, and that could get ugly. Although, I don't really think they care what I do just as long as everything gets done timely. It's now into my monthly lull, where I have virtually nothing to do unless they give me a special project.

On the knitting front, I can see my sock almost finished. I have about half of the foot knit, so it's just to complete the foot and then do the toe, bind off, and I will have finished my first sock (and it's about bloody time too). Then I just have to do it all over again. Maybe the second one will go faster, since I know more of what to expect. That's my hope anyways.

I have decided to try and find either a matching color or complementary color for the mohair. It's an odd shade of mauve that's near impossible to match, but I figure if all else fails, I can use a cream color to soften it. There's going to be a BIG order placed when I get to that stage. I still have to decide if I want to attempt the Lacy Mohair sweater from the Knit Simple magazine or not.

I'm coordinating a Secret Pal exchange on the Ample Knitters' list with at least one other person. That should be fun...as long as we can get stuff together. I hope that by the end of the week we'll have all the details ironed out about the exact method of operation and I can email the AK list. Once that's done, I hope within another week to have people paired off and get started. It sounds like a lot of work, but I'm not doing much around here, and I should have something to fill my time.

Socks, socks and more socks!

Well, I'm not done with them, but I've made good progress on one. I spent most of the weekend knitting the one unfinished lone sock I have. It fits too. I know that statement sounds odd, but I was at first afraid if I followed the pattern that they would be too small (I have large feet - we're talking a size 10-11 here people) and so I increased the size according to the gauge and prayed they would fit. Now that I've completed the heel (and a lovely heel it is too, if I do say so myself) and I'm working on the actual foot part, I decided on Saturday to try it on (provided that I wouldn't lose any stitches off the needles). I did, and oh, was it ever comfy! I can't wait to wear my crazy stripe socks.

I finished frogging the lovely purple sweater. Not the mohair, but the other one. It's sitting waiting on me to cast on and start a new lovely sweater with it. I think I've decided on a pattern; it will be one of my own creation, and it will look good on me. I will most definitely write it down as I go, and perhaps even submit it to a magazine somewhere. I also have to frog the mohair sweater and I'm going to attempt a pattern in the new Knit Simple magazine. I have to upsize it first, and then I have to consider my options for the other yarns, if I decide to go that route. I might use something else to soften it, and make it more substantial (so I don't have to wear something under it).

Over the New Year holiday, I knit up this. I used some leftover Wool of the Andes from KnitPicks, in Evergreen. It's a great way to use up leftovers. There's more planning, and hopefully once we stop having computer issues at home (power supplies seem to be hte main culprit) I can post some pictures.

Brilliant Ideas

I have just had two major break-throughs in knitwear design.

First, a sweater gone wrong...I tried to wear the Soft Focus sweater from an old book, and it just wasn't working for me. I made the sweater by the pattern (a first for me, since I always wind up modifying it for some reason or another) and it worked, but it wasn't the best style for me. Since I made it, and it wasn't very flattering (note to self: boatneck sweaters don't look good on EVERYONE), I decided I could modify the neckline slightly, so it wouldn't be so open and causing bra-strap issues. Once I did that, the neckline then proceeded to thank me by strangling me. It was not happy. It is now in the frog pond. Luckily, my crafty brain refused to give up on the warm and soft sweater...and now, after it is frogged (frogging still not complete), it will have new life as a lovely sweater with a crew neck (more flattering to me, although V-neck would be best...the details of the sweater haven't been fully decided yet).

Second, TONS of leftover yarn from various and sundry projects. I will make an afghan; one to use in the living room with the couch that should be replaced this year (hopefully). I think I'm going to go with a miter-square pattern for it, and then sew the squares together. Either that, or I'll be doing just a striped pattern. I'm leaning mroe towards the mitered square concept.

Third problem without a solution currently: the mohair sweater. I haven't figured out yet what to do with this, but it needs to be frogged and possibly worked into something like the lacy pullover in the Knit Simple magazine. It looks lovely, and simple, but it will give all that yarn something to do.

Fourth problem: Debbie Bliss Cashmerino bag. I have approximately 10 lovely skeins, and I was going to do a sweater, one with a boat neck, but after the Soft Focus fiasco, it would be better served doing something else. I haven't quite thought of what yet, but there's still time.

I have other small stash yarns, and most of those will get used up in lovely scarves, shawls, or wraps. I also think I might have solved my problem of the 3 eyelash skeins! A swatch is needed to determine if the solution will truly work.

Oh, more big news! I finally have a computer that can handle the software for the digital camera, and the software and correct cord for said camera is now in my possession. Hopefully, this will mean pictures soon! I know...I keep promising, but hey, I can only do so much, because believe it or not, I AM only human!

I love this time of year

New Years are great. It's a time for a fresh start, a new beginning. This promises to be a great year.

This year will be a great year for knitting. There are already some projects forming in my head, and hopefully I can put them into action before the year gets too far gone. I'm planning to use up my stash and replace it with yummy stuff (KnitPicks here I come!).

I have to buy some yarn for a friend...she's having a boy, who undoubtedly needs his own blanket, since I made one for his sister. I'm trying to decide between green and blue, and I'm thinking green, just simply because blue is so overly done on little boys. His sister got a really cool afghan, the Baby I.Q. afghan. Sure, it's crocheted, but it was cool to do, and easy. Of course, doing 16 granny squares does kind of wear you out a little, and you get tired of doing them, but it was really cool once it was all put together. I think her little brother needs an elephant, and maybe a cool sweater as well. However, she STILL can't fit into hers, and I used the 12 month size. She'll be 2 in April. Oh well...I guess the pattern was a little big. At least she can wear it later.

Cool reads

I went to Borders yesterday, and picked up a couple of knitting magazines. I could have spent a fortune just on those, but hey, I had other things to buy. I picked up this one, since it was the men's issue and my brother is into knitting now too. The articles were interesting, and I liked some of the designs for the sweaters. Most of it was men's wear, but that's ok...what woman doesn't like curling up in an oversized sweater on a cold day?! Sometimes having something huge makes you feel amazing. I liked some of the ideas as well. I think it has good potential for future work.

Then I was looking through the rack and saw this new one and there was an article about knits for plus sizes. That definitely caught my eye. I picked it up and flipped through it quickly, and just bought it. I'm hoping to write the editors and let them know WHY I purchased it, and perhaps they can do something about the lack of plus sized patterns in the knitting magazines. It might only be one voice, but better one than none. Who knows what might happen? They might do a spin off and make all the patterns in it for plus sizes. One can always hope.

I guess I'm gearing up for the new year. Last night we saw this:

It was good...really good. It was a good re-make, and although I haven't seen the original, I really did enjoy it. It was like a cross between the squeaky-clean movies of the 1930's and Journey to the Center of the Earth. The only drawback was there was someone who added some ambience through smell. Smell-o-vision would be great for cooking shows, but not for gorilla movies.

Woot for Christmas!

Well, Christmas was nice. I didn't get everything done that I wanted to, but Christmas still turned out nicely. I am hoping to knit more this year, and make presents for everyone for Christmas. I like doing handmade gifts, if for no other reasons than 1) they are generally cheaper and 2) they are more personal. I have some really hard people to buy gifts for...what do you get a retired person who has everything they need and most of what they want? For some people, the gifts are easy...sometimes they even provide a list.

This next year, my goals are going to be to reduce my stash and get through at least level one of the master hand knitter's course. There are some things I'd love to make just for Christmas, and hopefully I will make those as well. Then there are projects that are stacking up faster than I can knit them. I'm hoping that one of these days I'll have a good balance between stash and projects. Right now, all the projects I'd like to do I don't have the yarn for, and what I do have the yarn for I don't really want to do. Sad, isn't it?! Maybe I can fix that this year, and focus on what I have, find projects for that, and then the projects that I'd like to do slowly work towards getting the yarn for that. At some point, I need to see what projects I have started and where they need to go (finish them or frog pond?). There are also things in the frog pond that need frogging...maybe this week I can frog stuff. Keep your fingers crossed.

Time is all I need...

Just time. I wish I had more...I wanted to make some Christmas gifts. Oh well...I'll plan for next year. Maybe everyone will get socks. Everyone wears socks. Handmade socks all around...just what next year's Christmas ordered. Of course, that would mean I'd have to do at least one pair a month, and I haven't even finished the first one of mine yet! Oh well...maybe 2 at a time? I'm hoping to get some needles so I can do 2 socks on 2 circulars. Then we'll see how fast they go.

Patterns, patterns, everywhere...

So, I've been cleaning. I obviously have been doing something else, since I haven't been posting. Work's been a little more hectic, since it's the end of the quarter, but it hasn't been too terrible. I found patterns upon patterns upon patterns. I have 2 boxes stuffed full of patterns. I still have more left. I'm sure there are duplicates, and they're not organized, but at least they are all together. That's a step in the right direction. I have more organization to do, but we're sticking to cleaning for the time being, since Christmas is right around the corner.

I need to get my secret pal something. She's so sweet, and after having to put up with me all year, she deserves to get something nice. I'll have to see what I can find for her. Tis the season after all. =0)

Slow socks

That's what I'm going to title these things. They are SLOW. On the bright side, it gives me something to do while watching TV. I'm almost at the point of finishing the gusset of my socks, and then it will really be mindless knitting.

Good news...I finally moved almost all my yarn into the study. The bad news is that it doesn't currently have enough space, but that should hopefully be fixed tonight. I have 2 shelves to clean out of the Yaffa blocks (from my college days, but good for storing yarn) and fill them in with the rest of the yarn. That should be enough space, but I wouldn't hold my breath. I still have to figure out what to do with all my other craft stuff. I have cross stitch, crochet, tatting, and who knows what else lurking for storage. In my head, I think I've solved some of the storage problem, but the space problem is now before me. I might have an answer for that as well, depending on how I work things. Some measurements are going to be required. I am hoping in just 2 short weeks to be ready to start sewing on the stockings I want to make for Christmas. I have the felt (easy sewing) and my machine is all hooked up. All I need to do now is cut them out and sew them up.

Woot!

Woot! is all I have to say. My first sock is coming along nicely, although I have to admit that I am slightly worried that it's going to be too big. Oh well, if they are, all the more comfy.

I have to clean out my room tonight. I have TONS of yarn sitting in there. It all needs to join the rest of its family (Stash, Yarn Stash) in the study. It should be really nice and I should be able to divide and conquer a little at a time. I've been doing a lot of knitting, since my sinuses have decided to revolt against my throat, and now apparently my ear as well (it started hurting a little this afternoon). Oh well, more knitting time means socks sooner. I keep wanting those socks so badly...I can just imagine curled up on the sofa with those multicolored socks warming my feet. =0)

Sock Progress

Well, I finished the first pair of Cigar gloves for my brother. The second pair will come once I get some other projects done.

I turned the heel on my first sock! Woot! It's very exciting. I'm working on the gusset now. Oh, and more good news, I got the cable for the digital camera, so hopefully I can post pictures soon! It's been a long-time coming, I know.

The Georgia/Georgia Tech game was Saturday, and that provided good knitting time, with the exception of not having my pattern handy. So, I had to spend most of the third quarter writing it down. It was a sad game, since Tech didn't win. They should have won. It was a very football holiday weekend for me. I think I watched about 3 games total, with hubby watching at least 4 football games and catching pieces of college basketball games. Some days I just can't win for losing.

Progress

Well, I finished pair 1 of Cigar gloves. Woot! I have started the heel of sock #1. Woot! I'm hoping to finish sock #1 over Thanksgiving, and Friday I can get all my patterns organized. Hmm...it's time to start thinking how best to organize them. Any thoughts?

I also have to bake shortbread and a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. I thought about making a homemade apple pie as well, but since there will be a sweet potato pie there too, it might be a little overkill on the desserts.

Tomorrow is hubby's birthday, and we're headed to see this movie:





There's another Woot! I uploaded a pic with no problems (I hope). It's the first of many (I hope) on here. I'll take some pics this weekend and hopefully get a cable to the digital camera and post them (cross your fingers that I can find it).

Cool Thing I found while reading blogs...

Your Birthdate: March 23

You're not good at any one thing, and that's the problem.You're good at so much - you never know what to do.Change is in your blood, and you don't stick to much for long.You are destined for a life of travel and fun. Your strength: Your likeability Your weakness: You never feel satisfied Your power color: Bright yellow Your power symbol: Asterisk Your power month: May

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Wow...I'm bored at work.

Well, I'm bored at work. I have a ton of text to enter, and it's boring. It's mind-numbingly boring. So, I'm blogging. It's nice to be bored at work, for once. I have enough to keep me busy, but not enough to stress me out. I love a good balance.

So, I did actually finish the purple sweater, and I hated it. So, it's now in the frogging pond as well. I didn't work much on Cigar gloves, but today at lunch, I did finish the pinky of the second glove. That means only the thumb left, and then weaving in ends. Woot! It's close to being done. I think I found a pattern for the lovely mohair. A lovely lady from one of the lists I'm a member of sent me this link for a suggestion. Well, it was the only suggestion I got, but I think it would do WONDERFULLY for that yarn. I might even make 2, and give one to a friend. I also have another mohair blend that would look stunning in that. It might get made 3 times.

I think I'm going to try my hand at designing a sweater out of the purple stuff. I was at one point thinking of doing this sweater, but it needs to be up-sized for me. I'm just not sure that it should be all one color. I already emailed the designer and she was most encouraging about up-sizing it. I haven't decided if I'll do that one, or create my own, or a little of both.

Am I the only one who finds they always modify patterns? I think maybe it's because I'm just never content with how something looks on me, or perhaps it's just that I try to do stuff that's too small. Or maybe I just like to work on my math skills. I should keep a notebook on stuff like that. The calculations and whatnot of patterns I mean. Perhaps there's a perfectly logical mathematical formula for all of it. Ok, that was scary...I just sounded like a mathematician. I guess I am a mathematician for the business world.

I have also realized that in oh-so-many ways I'm WAY too practical. I'm trying to not be so practical for some things, and I think I need to extend that into my knitting. I need to go for what I like, whether or not it's practical. Who cares about practicality?! You only live once, and you should do as much as you can in this life. I'm not promoting insanity, but having fun. We all could use more fun in our lives. Who ever laid on their deathbed and said "I wish I didn't have as much fun in my life"? If someone has, I've never heard of it. Let's be thankful for what we have this week, and work hard on the knitting and have some fun with it! I might just free-form knit with the purple stuff. =0)

I'm trying!

I'm really trying to blog more! Look here...two posts in one week! Ok, so here's the progress. I have about 4 rows left on my purple sweater, so hopefully it'll be done this weekend and ready for wear come Monday. That will be nice, since it's started getting cold here. It got down into the 20s last night. That's cold, even by northern standards. *grins* I am working on the pinky of my brother's Cigar gloves. That should also hopefully be completed this weekend.

The next project is to take out my mohair sweater. I just don't like it. It's too big and clunky (if a sweater can be clunky). I've decided it's in the frogging pond and will be frogged soon. I think it will be a beautiful wrap instead. I think mohair works better for a wrap than for a sweater anyway.

Ack! I almost forgot about my socks! I have one pair on the needles (I'm close to starting the heel for the first sock) and another one waiting in the wings. I also have some sock yarn for a child's pair of socks. Those might wait a couple more months, like during summer. That would be a good light project that I could do easily and quickly (I hope).

I am also trying to budget for a Master Hand Knitter's Certification. We'll see how that turns out. I'm thinking sometime (like my birthday) I might buy myself the membership and the first level. That one should be easy to complete. I saw the requirements for it, and it doesn't look like the first level is too difficult or all that time consuming (also another good project for the summer - swatches). The second requires more thought, but I'm kind of disappointed in the paper requirements. It's a one-pager. What did I take all those English courses for?! I LOVE writing papers about things I'm passionate about. They might get more than they bargained for with the papers. *smirk*

Man, I almost forgot about some of the other projects that are in hiding. I have another pair of the Cigar gloves to do, Marvin the Paranoid Android to finish (I'm in the process of making and re-working some of the original designs - not that they're bad, but for me they're more of a starting point). I also have a felting project to try (lovely shades of Cascade to knit into a bag and felt), and lots of yarn for various and sundry other projects. I'm trying to be REALLY good and not buy more yarn (but gifts are ok *big grin*) and use what I have up.

I was going to make a tri-colored sweater, but now I can't find the pattern! I know it's around there somewhere, and perhaps when I get organized I'll find it. I thought it was in a magazine, but I've looked in all the magazines I thought I had at that time and can't find it. Perhaps I'm just wrong and I made it all up. Then again, perhaps this is a dream and in reality I've already completed it. If only...*sighs*

Once again...

I am falling behind on blogging. Oh well, at least it's for a different reason. This time I've been busy with cleaning and getting my life off of hold and started again. I'm doing a fair job of it. I love that I don't take work home with me. I love that I can leave on time without an excuse. So, what have I been doing on the knitting front? Well, I'm about 10 rows shy of finishing my purple sweater (again-the neck was too wide and needed modifying). I'm almost done with one set of the Cigar gloves my brother wants, and I'm part-way through a sock. I had problems finding a sock pattern I like with self-striping yarn. I didn't want any patterns in the sock, since I thought it would be too busy-looking with the stripes. I want to finish both pair of socks (there's another one waiting to be started) by Christmas. We'll see if that's going to really be possible. I know I'll have time to knit over Thanksgiving, and maybe I can get 2 circular needles going on the second pair, and do both socks at once. I have a dilemma...the purple mohair sweater I finished I just don't love. I need to do something else with it. So, it's to the frogging pond for it. I'm thinking a lovely lace shawl would work wonders for it. I'm hoping I'll be able to find something that I absolutely LOVE for it...this one needs a lovely pattern. I'm actually thinking of doing what David did with the other part of this yarn.

Ok, here's the story. A friend of mine had two colors of mohair, the mauvy pink and a lovely turquoise. The turquoise went to David, a friend of hers who knits. The rest went to me, because I also knit. David made a lovely wrap with his, in a leaf pattern. I'm thinking of doing the same thing, and then I can wear it with many different things, and it won't itch like crazy. I did wash the sweater, and I'm still just not crazy about it. It's definitely in the frogging pond.

Saturday and a new life

Well, I'm finally able to relax. I'm glad to be gone from the old job I had, and now perhaps I can keep up with this and so many other things I want to do. Since I don't have to work late all the time, I'll be free to do stuff like cleaning during the week, and knit on the weekends. I also found some of the stuff I want for Christmas gifts at my new job (someone was selling the oranges and tangelos for stockings) and it looks like I'll be home in about 10 minutes EVERY DAY. You gotta love a short commute. I am still decompressing from the old place, and it's been about a week, and I would say I'm about halfway there. I'm hoping this next week I'll be able to push a little and get into a new routine. Then I can spend more time doing what I want to do and having fun doing it. I'm all happy and excited.

Almost done!!!!

I'm almost done with the mohair sweater! Woohoo! It's just got a few more rows for the collar, and then I can actually put it in my "complete" pile. In other knitting news, I'm working on the second glove for Cigar for my brother, the first one having been completed sometime back in July I believe. I'm also about halfway done with my first sock ever! Woohoo! I've completed from the top down past the heel and am working on the foot. I still need to finish my other purple sweater that I changed the neckline on. It's close to being done...it just needs the sewing finished and the collar. Maybe by October I can have the two sweaters and the glove completed, and just be working on the socks. I think I'm going to once again re-assign the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino to Samus from knitty.com's latest issue. I think I could use a cardigan, and it would be a great use of this yarn. I just hope I have enough! I'll be doing some math later on it. This is exciting...maybe one day I'll finish getting my craft corner done too. I think I'll work on that this weekend. Things are coming along!

Christmas is so close...

but I think I have most of the gifts ready in my head. At least the hard ones have been chosen...ok, some of the hard ones have been chosen. There are other difficult ones to figure out. What do you get a 20-something, almost 30-something who buys everything he wants? I have no clue. I figured out my grandparents. Those were semi-easy. I'm lost on my parents and in-laws. Maybe I can do one a month, and not break the bank.

As for my grandparents, my dad's mom is getting DVDs. We already bought them. They just need to be wrapped. For my mom's parents, I'm all about the socks now. I figured out the heel on the one I started for me, and I'm hoping the rest will be easy and will move right along. I haven't finished my sweaters, mainly because it's been too hot. I still have to finish the Cigar gloves for my brother as well. I honestly am at a loss for him for Christmas. Maybe a scarf from the leftovers? We'll have to see what comes out of the ol' bag o' tricks for him.

I cleaned more in the study...I finally have my sewing machine set up! However, I can't get to it. There's more stuff to go through and find a place for but it's coming along. I'm hoping that before Thanksgiving it'll be completed.

Alright, I've been a slacker...

Well, sort of. It's not all my fault, but I guess most of the blame should rest with me. Work has kept me busier than I'd care to admit, and then there was the first week of vacation, spent cleaning. The second week of vacation (last week) was spent in Gatlinburg, TN. For those of you who don't know, it's a great tourist trap. I say great because it has some of the most beautiful scenery in this country. To me at least. I love the Great Smoky Mountains. As much of a city person as I am, I have to admit moving closer to that region has a definite appeal.

Knitting hasn't been happening that much...it's been too hot. I almost finished the Mohair Cowl Neck sweater, and the temperature soared (as did the humidity). I set it aside. All that's left is the collar. That's it. You'd think I'd endure the heat for a weekend and finish it, but nope, not me. I've set it aside in lieu of other things. I completed one of the Cigar gloves from Knitty for my brother, although I'm thinking of making it a little bigger for him. I'm also mid-sock. It's the first ever pair of socks I've done, and I'm slow. They're small needles, with thin yarn, so it's taking longer than I'd probably like for it to, but it's hot. Knitting is a cold weather activity to me.

I've also been catching up on some reading, or at least trying to. I've been making good progress on the Diana Gabaldon series, all things considered. I'm almost done with book 2 (Dragonfly in Amber) and want to finish the other 2 before the next book in the series comes out. Did I mention that it comes out September 27th? I'm excited.

I've also been cleaning like a mad woman. We're having Christmas at our place this year, and I want everything to be just so. You know how it is...I'm the Martha Stewart wannabe. One of the girls at work calls me "Betty Crocker" so I just want everything to run smoothly, especially since it's the first time we haven't been at my grandparents'. We usually travel all over creation (ok, just the state of GA) for Christmas, which means travelling on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This is just NOT happy. It makes us miserable, and we wind up dreading Christmas. Not this year...it's at our place and all I have to do is cook and clean. I'll take that over driving for 8 hours over 2 days. I'm starting early, and I'm almost halfway there. Saturday, I'll be finishing the study, which is the big killer. I already cleaned out the trash, so I'm just down to what should be in there. It's a lot more manageable now. I love making progress.

So, that all being said, hopefully soon I'll be able to post the pictures I keep promising, because I have digital camera and the computer's in the study. It should get hooked up to the internet sometime soon (as soon as my husband uses the hub we have and connects all the computers). He's kind of waiting on me, since the cords are in my stuff. But it's getting there. I thought I had posted something before I went on vacation, but I guess I didn't. Oh well...hopefully I'll have time next week for another posting. Keep your fingers crossed!!!